Breast Surgery
Breast Augmentation For many women, breast size is an important part of feeling good, desirable and normal. Most women compare themselves to a cultural idea of beauty. Having a breast augmentation procedure can greatly improve self-esteem for many women. It can make a woman feel more like the ideal by drastically improving the way she views herself. Cosmetic breast augmentation Breast enhancement or augmentation is one of the most frequently performed cosmetic procedures in the United States today. It can dramatically improve the appearance of a woman's breasts. The enhancement procedure is used to enlarge small breasts, underdeveloped breasts, or breasts that have decreased in size after a woman has had children. Recent studies have supported the safety of saline breast implants. Should a saline implant leak, the salt water is safely reabsorbed by the body as the implant deflates. Most of the implant companies provide replacement warranty. Is breast augmentation for you? During your conference with your surgeon, discuss your goals and expectations of the surgery. Your surgeon will assess the nature of your breasts, your expectations, and explain the probable outcome of your procedure. You may be shown several before and after treatment photographs of patients having similar breasts, and your surgeon will explain the treatment you can expect to receive. You may also try some different size implants on in a bra to give you an idea as to the look you desire. Often a mammogram (X-Ray) will be required pre-operatively. Your procedure Breast augmentation is performed on an outpatient basis using a general or local anesthesia. The procedure usually takes about two hours. One of the more frequent techniques used requires an incision under the lower portion of the breast near the chest wall or under the lower portion of the areola (the darker area around your nipple). After the incision is made, a pocket is created under the breast tissue or beneath the chest wall muscle. The implant is securely positioned in the pocket, and small sutures are used to close the incision. When inflatable implants are used, your surgeon can adjust the amount of inflation. Are breast implants safe? Yes. There is no evidence that breast implants increase the risk of breast cancer or any other condition. Most women can also safely breast feed after augmentation surgery. Your new figure Getting used to a new figure can be a satisfying and even exciting experience as you and those around you learn to appreciate your new, more shapely figure. To avoid complications and assure your safety, it is imperative that you examine yourself regularly and visit your surgeon for check-ups on a regular basis. Those in the appropriate age groups should continue to have routine mammograms as prescribed. What is recovery from breast augmentation like? Rest is recommended for the first few days following surgery. A post-surgical sports bra is usually worn for several weeks. Most discomfort associated with breast surgery can be controlled with oral medication prescribed by your surgeon. Antibiotics may also be prescribed. Most women experience mild swelling, bruising and tenderness. These symptoms should subside in a short time. Your surgeon will advise you on a proper schedule for returning to your normal activities. Most patients are back to work within the first week. Regular physical activity may be resumed in 4 - 6 weeks. Following your cosmetic breast surgery, you will enjoy a new, more pleasing shape, with more comfortable breasts that are in better proportion to your physique. Breast Lift Cosmetic breast surgery has become one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries in the world today. The vast majority of cosmetic breast procedures are for augmentation. However, the number of breast lifts (mastopexy) has also seen a significant surge in popularity. Who would choose to have their breasts lifted? Most people think a breast lift is requested more often by older women. However, the average age of patients choosing to have the procedure is only 39. This is just slightly older than those having augmentation and reduction procedures. Why choose a breast lift? As women age and/or have children, their breasts tend to lose fat and the breast tissue begins to thin. In most cases, when the breast tissue shrinks, the skin does not and the areola/nipple droops down below the inframammary crease. Lifting the nipple above the crease will restore a youthful look. Will a breast lift affect nursing? While it is possible to nurse after a breast lift, it is generally recommended that you wait. Should you become pregnant your breasts will swell and stretch the skin and you may lose the benefits of the procedure. Can a breast lift be combined with another procedure? Yes. Many patients who request a breast lift also want to have the fullness back. These patients usually decide to have implants as well. In certain instances, the augmentation will aid in stretching the skin, enabling your surgeon to do a breast lift with shorter scars. Other patients may require a breast reduction as well as a breast lift to restore the look they desire. How is a breast lift performed? Breast lifts are performed on an outpatient basis using a general or local anesthesia. A breast lift may take two hours depending on the complexity. Your surgeon may choose from a variety of surgical approaches. The most common approach, the “anchor” incision, is actually three incisions. The first incision is made around the areola. The next runs from the bottom of the areola down to the breast crease and the third incision follows the horizontal breast crease. Working through these incisions, excess skin is removed from the lower portion of the breast. Areolas that have been stretched over time can be resized and the tissue is repositioned to reshape the breast. The breast tissue and nipple are lifted into the higher position, and the nipple is repositioned. Like many surgeries, the trend in breast lifts has been to smaller, shorter incisions resulting in less scarring. These smaller scar techniques include the “lollipop” incision which avoids the horizontal incision beneath the breast, and the “peri-areola” or “donut” incision around the areola which avoids both the vertical incision from the breast crease to the areola and the horizontal incision beneath the breast. Which procedure is best for me? After examining the size, shape, and sagging of your breasts and the size of your areolas, your surgeon will discuss the technique best suited for your procedure. What about scarring? The size and amount of scarring is different for every patient. However, the use of silicone sheathing, topical liquid silicone or laser treatments can greatly diminish the appearance of scars. What is recovery like? Bed rest is recommended for the first day. For the first few days following any breast surgery, you may be asked to wear surgical dressings or a special post-surgical garment. Most discomfort associated with breast surgery can be controlled with oral medication prescribed by your surgeon. Antibiotics may also be prescribed. Most women experience some degree of swelling, bruising and tenderness. These symptoms should subside in a short time. All sutures are removed within 1 - 2 weeks. Your surgeon will advise you on a proper schedule for returning to your normal activities. Most patients are back to work within the first week. Following your cosmetic breast surgery, you will enjoy a new, more pleasing shape, with more comfortable breasts that are in better proportion to your physique. Breast Reduction Excessively large, sagging breasts can be uncomfortable, unhealthy and distracting from a woman's appearance. Large breasts can also restrict certain activities. Breast reduction surgery reduces overdeveloped breasts and can alleviate back pain, shoulder strap furrows, hand numbness and breathing difficulty. What about getting pregenant and nursing? If you are considering having children, you should discuss this with your surgeon during your consultation. The ability to nurse after you have had the size of your breasts reduced is unpredictable. Should you decide to nurse after your surgery, you probably will experience some temporary engorgement. What about mammogram's? The risk of developing breast cancer seems to remain unchanged following a breast reduction, as do our recommendations for cancer screenings. Self breast examination should be performed monthly. A new baseline mammogram should be performed one year after your surgery. Your doctor will make further recommendations during your consultation. Who are the best candidates for breast reduction? The best candidates are women with very large breasts who require physical relief. Other candidates for breast reduction include those patients with one breast significantly larger than the other. Those with indentations in their shoulders from tight bra straps and those who are self-conscious or dissatisfied with their oversized breasts are also excellent candidates. How is procedure performed? Traditional breast reduction surgery is an outpatient procedure, but is sometimes performed as an inpatient procedure under general anesthesia, and takes between two to four hours. There are many variations to the procedure. The most common procedure involves an incision that circles the areola and extends downward following the curve of the crease beneath the breast. Your surgeon removes the excess glandular and fatty tissue. Then the nipple and areola are moved to their new position. The skin is then drawn together and down around the areola, providing a new shape to your breast. Unless your breasts are very large and pendulous, the nipples will likely remain attached. All incisions are closed with stitches. Breast liposuction is a safe alternative to traditional breast reduction surgery. It may be performed with twilight sleep anesthesia combined with local anesthesia. Since the female breast is about 50% fat, a 1 - 3 cup reduction in size can be obtained using liposuction alone. Liposuction of the breast enables the surgeon to remove fatty tissue, but not glandular tissue. With this procedure, most patients experience a quicker recovery time with minimal scarring as compared to a traditional breast reduction. Depending on your breast size, breast liposuction might be an option to consider. How will I feel after surgery? The recovery from a traditional breast reduction procedure can be extensive. Following your surgery, it is a good idea to sleep on your back to avoid undo pressure on your breasts. Sexual activity should be avoided for one to two weeks following surgery, and you should avoid strenuous activity for several weeks. It may be possible to return to work in one or two weeks. The stitches will be removed over the next few weeks. Bruising and swelling may take up to six weeks to disappear, and it may take up to a year or two for the scars to flatten and fade. In contrast, patients undergoing breast liposuction are encouraged to resume normal activities as soon as they feel up to it. The scar is small and hidden, out of sight under the breast fold. The results of breast reduction surgery are permanent, but breast size may change due to weight gain or pregnancy. Your new figure A breast reduction can make a dramatic change in your appearance and your outlook. A breast reduction can make your breasts smaller and firmer. Many patients find a new enjoyment in sports, exercise, dancing or even just walking. Breast Reconstruction For many women, body image is an important part of feeling good. When a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer, she may feel that image is going to be shattered. The possibility of losing one or both breasts can be devastating. The diagnosis is usually sudden, allowing no time for adjustment. She may be faced with choosing a body-altering surgical procedure in order to save her life. Since most women compare themselves to a cultural idea of beauty, it is no wonder that they feel self-conscious, awkward and uncomfortable about changing their appearance. Once you have been diagnosed with breast cancer, you should start thinking about your reconstructive surgery. Your consultation During your consultation with both your surgeon and your oncologist, you will be explained the type of breast cancer you have and they will review your treatment options with you. You may be shown before and after photographs of patients who have had a similar procedure. Which surgery is for me? The type and extent of your breast cancer diagnosis combined with the treatment planned will impact your surgical choices. Many doctors prefer to perform a breast conserving surgery called a lumpectomy when possible. However, in many cases, a mastectomy is the only option. Some women choose to have a mastectomy for prophylactic reasons. Others may require some adjustments to the healthy breast to maintain symmetry. For some, multiple procedures will be required. In addition, some reconstructive options offer superior results when performed at the time of the mastectomy. Breast reconstruction There are two basic breast reconstructive procedures: tissue expansion with implants and flap reconstruction. Tissue expansion followed by implants is the most common procedure. Tissue expanders are like balloons. They are placed beneath your skin and chest muscle following your mastectomy. During the next several months, your surgeon will gradually fill them with a saltwater solution. This will cause them to expand. Once the skin over the breast area has stretched enough, the expander will be removed and replaced with a permanent implant. Implants have the most realistic feel of all reconstructive procedures. Today, implants come in a multitude of sizes and shapes. Saline implants are filled with a saltwater solution and have a silicone shell. Silicone implants are available in controlled test centers. Flap reconstruction uses tissue taken from other parts of the body to create a flap. The tissue is usually taken from the abdomen, the back or the buttocks. Regardless of which type of flap procedure you and your surgeon choose, this type of reconstruction is more complex than tissue expansion. However, the results can be more natural when your new breast is created entirely from your own tissue. How many procedures will I need? Breast reconstruction usually involves multiple procedures performed over time. The first procedure is usually the most complex. Some patients may require an additional procedure to remove the tissue expander and insert the implant. Others will need an additional procedure to complete the nipple and areola reconstruction. Once the reconstruction is complete, many patients decide on having an additional procedure to change their natural breast to match the reconstructed breast. What is recovery from surgery like? Depending on the surgical option you choose, you may have to stay in the hospital for a few days. Immediately after surgery, you will feel tired and sore. Your new breast(s) will be swollen. Drains and stitches may be in place for about a week. Scars will fade over time. Most discomfort can be controlled with medication. You should avoid any lifting or strenuous activity as well as sexual activity for three to six weeks following your reconstructive procedure. In addition, you may be asked to wear a binder or girdle during the healing process to decrease the possibility of hernias. How will I look after my surgery? It is very difficult for a surgeon to guess exactly how your reconstructed breast will heal. What size or shape it will be when the swelling subsides and the healing is complete is hard to say; sometimes scar tissue and swelling will cause a breast to be misshapen. The use of shells, shapers and push-ups in your bra can restore the most balanced figure possible.
Excessively large, sagging breasts can be uncomfortable, unhealthy and distracting from a woman's appearance. Large breasts can also restrict certain activities. Breast reduction surgery reduces overdeveloped breasts and can alleviate back pain, shoulder strap furrows, hand numbness and breathing difficulty.
If you are considering having children, you should discuss this with your surgeon during your consultation. The ability to nurse after you have had the size of your breasts reduced is unpredictable. Should you decide to nurse after your surgery, you probably will experience some temporary engorgement.
The risk of developing breast cancer seems to remain unchanged following a breast reduction, as do our recommendations for cancer screenings. Self breast examination should be performed monthly. A new baseline mammogram should be performed one year after your surgery. Your doctor will make further recommendations during your consultation.
The best candidates are women with very large breasts who require physical relief. Other candidates for breast reduction include those patients with one breast significantly larger than the other. Those with indentations in their shoulders from tight bra straps and those who are self-conscious or dissatisfied with their oversized breasts are also excellent candidates.
Traditional breast reduction surgery is an outpatient procedure, but is sometimes performed as an inpatient procedure under general anesthesia, and takes between two to four hours. There are many variations to the procedure. The most common procedure involves an incision that circles the areola and extends downward following the curve of the crease beneath the breast. Your surgeon removes the excess glandular and fatty tissue. Then the nipple and areola are moved to their new position. The skin is then drawn together and down around the areola, providing a new shape to your breast. Unless your breasts are very large and pendulous, the nipples will likely remain attached. All incisions are closed with stitches. Breast liposuction is a safe alternative to traditional breast reduction surgery. It may be performed with twilight sleep anesthesia combined with local anesthesia. Since the female breast is about 50% fat, a 1 - 3 cup reduction in size can be obtained using liposuction alone. Liposuction of the breast enables the surgeon to remove fatty tissue, but not glandular tissue. With this procedure, most patients experience a quicker recovery time with minimal scarring as compared to a traditional breast reduction. Depending on your breast size, breast liposuction might be an option to consider.
The recovery from a traditional breast reduction procedure can be extensive. Following your surgery, it is a good idea to sleep on your back to avoid undo pressure on your breasts. Sexual activity should be avoided for one to two weeks following surgery, and you should avoid strenuous activity for several weeks. It may be possible to return to work in one or two weeks. The stitches will be removed over the next few weeks. Bruising and swelling may take up to six weeks to disappear, and it may take up to a year or two for the scars to flatten and fade. In contrast, patients undergoing breast liposuction are encouraged to resume normal activities as soon as they feel up to it. The scar is small and hidden, out of sight under the breast fold. The results of breast reduction surgery are permanent, but breast size may change due to weight gain or pregnancy.
A breast reduction can make a dramatic change in your appearance and your outlook. A breast reduction can make your breasts smaller and firmer. Many patients find a new enjoyment in sports, exercise, dancing or even just walking.
For many women, body image is an important part of feeling good. When a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer, she may feel that image is going to be shattered. The possibility of losing one or both breasts can be devastating. The diagnosis is usually sudden, allowing no time for adjustment. She may be faced with choosing a body-altering surgical procedure in order to save her life. Since most women compare themselves to a cultural idea of beauty, it is no wonder that they feel self-conscious, awkward and uncomfortable about changing their appearance. Once you have been diagnosed with breast cancer, you should start thinking about your reconstructive surgery.
During your consultation with both your surgeon and your oncologist, you will be explained the type of breast cancer you have and they will review your treatment options with you. You may be shown before and after photographs of patients who have had a similar procedure.
The type and extent of your breast cancer diagnosis combined with the treatment planned will impact your surgical choices. Many doctors prefer to perform a breast conserving surgery called a lumpectomy when possible. However, in many cases, a mastectomy is the only option. Some women choose to have a mastectomy for prophylactic reasons. Others may require some adjustments to the healthy breast to maintain symmetry. For some, multiple procedures will be required. In addition, some reconstructive options offer superior results when performed at the time of the mastectomy.
There are two basic breast reconstructive procedures: tissue expansion with implants and flap reconstruction. Tissue expansion followed by implants is the most common procedure. Tissue expanders are like balloons. They are placed beneath your skin and chest muscle following your mastectomy. During the next several months, your surgeon will gradually fill them with a saltwater solution. This will cause them to expand. Once the skin over the breast area has stretched enough, the expander will be removed and replaced with a permanent implant. Implants have the most realistic feel of all reconstructive procedures. Today, implants come in a multitude of sizes and shapes. Saline implants are filled with a saltwater solution and have a silicone shell. Silicone implants are available in controlled test centers. Flap reconstruction uses tissue taken from other parts of the body to create a flap. The tissue is usually taken from the abdomen, the back or the buttocks. Regardless of which type of flap procedure you and your surgeon choose, this type of reconstruction is more complex than tissue expansion. However, the results can be more natural when your new breast is created entirely from your own tissue.
Breast reconstruction usually involves multiple procedures performed over time. The first procedure is usually the most complex. Some patients may require an additional procedure to remove the tissue expander and insert the implant. Others will need an additional procedure to complete the nipple and areola reconstruction. Once the reconstruction is complete, many patients decide on having an additional procedure to change their natural breast to match the reconstructed breast.
Depending on the surgical option you choose, you may have to stay in the hospital for a few days. Immediately after surgery, you will feel tired and sore. Your new breast(s) will be swollen. Drains and stitches may be in place for about a week. Scars will fade over time. Most discomfort can be controlled with medication. You should avoid any lifting or strenuous activity as well as sexual activity for three to six weeks following your reconstructive procedure. In addition, you may be asked to wear a binder or girdle during the healing process to decrease the possibility of hernias.
It is very difficult for a surgeon to guess exactly how your reconstructed breast will heal. What size or shape it will be when the swelling subsides and the healing is complete is hard to say; sometimes scar tissue and swelling will cause a breast to be misshapen. The use of shells, shapers and push-ups in your bra can restore the most balanced figure possible.
Body Contouring
Body Sculpting You have dieted and exercised and there are still stubborn areas of fat that will not go away. Your reason for choosing liposuction may be as simple as just wanting to look better in your clothes. While liposuction is not a replacement for a healthy lifestyle, it can make you look and feel better. Body Sculpting For Men Image isn't everything. But, in today's hectic, competitive environment, it can make a big difference. Studies have shown that the male cosmetic surgery trend is closely tied to career advancement. In a recent nationwide survey on the importance of appearance and job success, 84% of men believed physical attractiveness was important for power and success on the job, and 32% of men agreed that if they had a more youthful appearance, it would positively impact their job success. You may have tried to diet and exercise on a regular basis, only to find that those "love handles," fatty breasts, belly, and that fatty pouch under your chin just won't go away. Your reasons for choosing to have liposuction may be as simple as just wanting to look better at the beach or on the job. While liposuction is not a replacement for a healthy lifestyle, it can make you look and feel better. What Is Liposuction? Liposuction surgery is performed to actually remove unwanted localized deposits of fat cells from the body. The procedure is meant for body contouring. It is not a treatment of obesity. A suction tube is inserted through a tiny incision placed in an inconspicuous location on the skin. With a high pressure vacuum, fat cells are extracted through this tube. The result is a resculpting of bulging areas into more attractive contours. What is the Tumescent Technique? With the Tumescent Technique, large volumes of saline solution, local anesthesia, and adrenaline are infused into the fatty area being treated to cause swelling. This enables your surgeon to maneuver a small instrument called a cannula, connected to a vacuum machine, superficially under the skin. The cannula is inserted into the fatty tissue through tiny incisions. Your surgeon gently moves it around under your skin and suctions away the unwanted fatty deposits to reveal more attractive contours. The best candidates for body sculpting: • have firm, elastic skin and are in good health. • have tried to eliminate bulges through diet, exercise and weight loss. • have distinct areas of localized fat that are disproportionate to the rest of their bodies. • have realistic expectations and are only slightly to moderately overweight. • understand that liposuction is not a substitute for weight loss. How will my skin look after surgery? Dimples, ripples and stretch marks remain unchanged following liposuction. Your new figure will be similar to what you would expect if you could lose an equal amount of localized fat through diet and exercise alone. The use of smaller cannulas allows the fibrous connections between your skin and body to remain. These connections will contract over time. As a result, excessive skin folds are so rare that many patients avoid the necessity for surgical skin excision by having excellent results with liposuction alone. What will my recovery be like? You will go home after the procedure and rest for a few hours, after which you may gradually increase your activity as tolerated. After 2 to 5 days you may resume normal activities. You may need to wear a snug elastic dressing, girdle, or body stocking over the treated area to aid healing. Tummy Tuck A protuberant abdomen can be a cause of distress for men and women alike. It can be the result of excess fat, weak abdominal muscles, pregnancy, or loose skin that has been over-stretched and no longer responds to diet and exercise. For those who have experienced a massive weight loss, their only alternative to loose overhanging skin is surgery. Tummy Tuck "Tummy Tuck"; or abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to flatten a protruding abdomen by tightening the muscles in the abdominal wall and removing excess fatty tissue and skin. The procedure is a common one and can benefit men and women who are bothered by a protruding abdomen. Patients that have stabilized in their weight loss program or who feel they are at their ideal weight are the best candidates for a tummy tuck. Many patients combine their tummy tuck with other cosmetic procedures such as liposuction, breast augmentation or breast reduction surgery. Could you benefit from a Tummy Tuck? Keep in mind that while a tummy tuck will enhance your figure and your self-confidence, it's not likely to change your life or the way people treat you. During your private consultation with your surgeon, you should explain your goals and expectations of the surgery. Your surgeon will assess the nature of your abdomen, your expectations, and explain the probable outcome of your procedure. You may be shown several before and after treatment photographs of patients having similar abdomens, and your surgeon will explain the treatment and the results you can expect to receive. Before and after photographs may be taken of your abdomen to document your improvement. The Procedure There are three basic techniques used to flatten a protuberant abdomen. The best technique for you will depend largely on your goals and your specific problem. Liposuction alone can produce a thin abdominal wall for some. If your laxity and excess skin is below your navel, a mini tummy tuck may be right for you. For those with severe laxity of their abdominal muscle or excessive skin, a full tummy tuck may be their only solution. A tummy tuck is usually performed on an out-patient basis under general anesthesia with the patient asleep, or with spinal anesthesia. A full tummy tuck involves an incision around the belly button and another incision that runs from hip to hip. Your entire abdominal wall is tightened with permanent sutures, and the excess skin and fat is removed. A mini tummy tuck is usually performed in conjunction with liposuction of the upper abdomen and the flank areas. With a mini tummy tuck, a smaller incision is made in your bikini area and no incision is made around your belly button. Your surgeon will remove your excess skin and fat through this incision. Permanent sutures will also be placed through this incision to tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall. Regardless of which procedure you have, your incisions are closed with small sutures. Small drains may also be inserted to eliminate fluid buildup. Snug elastic bandages are then applied to the area. What will my recovery be like? Bed rest is recommended for the first day. Most patients experience some numbness in the area of their abdomen, which may last as long as a year. Any pain or discomfort that follows surgery can be controlled with oral medication. If drains are used, they may remain in place for three to seven days until discharge fluids decrease. Sutures will be removed in 1 - 2 weeks, however, your bandages may remain a little longer. A special abdominal support garment is often necessary for several weeks. There will be some scarring that will fade significantly over time. During your recovery, you must refrain from any strenuous activity or lifting. Most patients are back to work within one to three weeks, depending on the degree of surgery. Your surgeon will decide when you can resume normal activities. Results can be quite dramatic, and patients love their slimmer, trimmer figures and flatter abdomens! Thigh Lift When a person loses a great deal of weight, the stretched skin often fails to tighten back up. This is especially true in the thigh area. In order to return this area to its normal contour, the excess skin must oftentimes be surgically removed. The removal of this excess skin will leave a scar which will fade over time. The benefit of re-shaping of the leg must be weighed against the scar which is left. During your consultation this will be discussed with you along with your expectations so that we understand your goals and determine what can realistically be achieved. Brachioplasty An arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure to remove loose skin and excess fat deposits in the upper arm. With age, upper arm skin can become loose and flabby. The doctor will discuss brachioplasty with patients who want to tighten this skin and look as good as they feel. In some cases your doctor may suggest that liposuction be used alone or in conjunction with an arm lift to remove excess fat in the upper arms. During your consultation this will be discussed with you along with your expectations so that we understand your goals and determine what can realistically be achieved.
You have dieted and exercised and there are still stubborn areas of fat that will not go away. Your reason for choosing liposuction may be as simple as just wanting to look better in your clothes. While liposuction is not a replacement for a healthy lifestyle, it can make you look and feel better.
Image isn't everything. But, in today's hectic, competitive environment, it can make a big difference. Studies have shown that the male cosmetic surgery trend is closely tied to career advancement. In a recent nationwide survey on the importance of appearance and job success, 84% of men believed physical attractiveness was important for power and success on the job, and 32% of men agreed that if they had a more youthful appearance, it would positively impact their job success. You may have tried to diet and exercise on a regular basis, only to find that those "love handles," fatty breasts, belly, and that fatty pouch under your chin just won't go away. Your reasons for choosing to have liposuction may be as simple as just wanting to look better at the beach or on the job. While liposuction is not a replacement for a healthy lifestyle, it can make you look and feel better.
Liposuction surgery is performed to actually remove unwanted localized deposits of fat cells from the body. The procedure is meant for body contouring. It is not a treatment of obesity. A suction tube is inserted through a tiny incision placed in an inconspicuous location on the skin. With a high pressure vacuum, fat cells are extracted through this tube. The result is a resculpting of bulging areas into more attractive contours.
With the Tumescent Technique, large volumes of saline solution, local anesthesia, and adrenaline are infused into the fatty area being treated to cause swelling. This enables your surgeon to maneuver a small instrument called a cannula, connected to a vacuum machine, superficially under the skin. The cannula is inserted into the fatty tissue through tiny incisions. Your surgeon gently moves it around under your skin and suctions away the unwanted fatty deposits to reveal more attractive contours.
• have firm, elastic skin and are in good health. • have tried to eliminate bulges through diet, exercise and weight loss. • have distinct areas of localized fat that are disproportionate to the rest of their bodies. • have realistic expectations and are only slightly to moderately overweight. • understand that liposuction is not a substitute for weight loss.
Dimples, ripples and stretch marks remain unchanged following liposuction. Your new figure will be similar to what you would expect if you could lose an equal amount of localized fat through diet and exercise alone. The use of smaller cannulas allows the fibrous connections between your skin and body to remain. These connections will contract over time. As a result, excessive skin folds are so rare that many patients avoid the necessity for surgical skin excision by having excellent results with liposuction alone.
You will go home after the procedure and rest for a few hours, after which you may gradually increase your activity as tolerated. After 2 to 5 days you may resume normal activities. You may need to wear a snug elastic dressing, girdle, or body stocking over the treated area to aid healing.
A protuberant abdomen can be a cause of distress for men and women alike. It can be the result of excess fat, weak abdominal muscles, pregnancy, or loose skin that has been over-stretched and no longer responds to diet and exercise. For those who have experienced a massive weight loss, their only alternative to loose overhanging skin is surgery.
"Tummy Tuck"; or abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to flatten a protruding abdomen by tightening the muscles in the abdominal wall and removing excess fatty tissue and skin. The procedure is a common one and can benefit men and women who are bothered by a protruding abdomen. Patients that have stabilized in their weight loss program or who feel they are at their ideal weight are the best candidates for a tummy tuck. Many patients combine their tummy tuck with other cosmetic procedures such as liposuction, breast augmentation or breast reduction surgery.
Keep in mind that while a tummy tuck will enhance your figure and your self-confidence, it's not likely to change your life or the way people treat you. During your private consultation with your surgeon, you should explain your goals and expectations of the surgery. Your surgeon will assess the nature of your abdomen, your expectations, and explain the probable outcome of your procedure. You may be shown several before and after treatment photographs of patients having similar abdomens, and your surgeon will explain the treatment and the results you can expect to receive. Before and after photographs may be taken of your abdomen to document your improvement.
There are three basic techniques used to flatten a protuberant abdomen. The best technique for you will depend largely on your goals and your specific problem. Liposuction alone can produce a thin abdominal wall for some. If your laxity and excess skin is below your navel, a mini tummy tuck may be right for you. For those with severe laxity of their abdominal muscle or excessive skin, a full tummy tuck may be their only solution.
A tummy tuck is usually performed on an out-patient basis under general anesthesia with the patient asleep, or with spinal anesthesia. A full tummy tuck involves an incision around the belly button and another incision that runs from hip to hip. Your entire abdominal wall is tightened with permanent sutures, and the excess skin and fat is removed.
A mini tummy tuck is usually performed in conjunction with liposuction of the upper abdomen and the flank areas. With a mini tummy tuck, a smaller incision is made in your bikini area and no incision is made around your belly button. Your surgeon will remove your excess skin and fat through this incision. Permanent sutures will also be placed through this incision to tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall.
Regardless of which procedure you have, your incisions are closed with small sutures. Small drains may also be inserted to eliminate fluid buildup. Snug elastic bandages are then applied to the area.
Bed rest is recommended for the first day. Most patients experience some numbness in the area of their abdomen, which may last as long as a year. Any pain or discomfort that follows surgery can be controlled with oral medication. If drains are used, they may remain in place for three to seven days until discharge fluids decrease. Sutures will be removed in 1 - 2 weeks, however, your bandages may remain a little longer. A special abdominal support garment is often necessary for several weeks. There will be some scarring that will fade significantly over time. During your recovery, you must refrain from any strenuous activity or lifting. Most patients are back to work within one to three weeks, depending on the degree of surgery. Your surgeon will decide when you can resume normal activities.
Results can be quite dramatic, and patients love their slimmer, trimmer figures and flatter abdomens!
Thigh Lift
When a person loses a great deal of weight, the stretched skin often fails to tighten back up. This is especially true in the thigh area. In order to return this area to its normal contour, the excess skin must oftentimes be surgically removed. The removal of this excess skin will leave a scar which will fade over time. The benefit of re-shaping of the leg must be weighed against the scar which is left. During your consultation this will be discussed with you along with your expectations so that we understand your goals and determine what can realistically be achieved.
Brachioplasty
An arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure to remove loose skin and excess fat deposits in the upper arm. With age, upper arm skin can become loose and flabby. The doctor will discuss brachioplasty with patients who want to tighten this skin and look as good as they feel. In some cases your doctor may suggest that liposuction be used alone or in conjunction with an arm lift to remove excess fat in the upper arms. During your consultation this will be discussed with you along with your expectations so that we understand your goals and determine what can realistically be achieved.
Facial Surgery
Browlift It used to be that cosmetic surgery was for the over fifty crowd. Patients waited until they looked awful and then asked for "the works". Their results were dramatic, but, unfortunately, everyone could tell they just had surgery. Today, nearly one-third of those seeking facial rejuvenation surgery are between 35 and 50 years old. Wrinkles and frown lines often first appear in the brow and forehead area. A forehead lift or browlift can smooth out the wrinkles and correct drooping brows and heavy lids to provide a younger, friendlier appearance. A browlift can be performed alone or with other cosmetic procedures such as a facelift, eyelid surgery, or laser skin resurfacing. Your Consulation During your initial cosmetic consultation, your doctor will discuss your goals for the surgery and explain your probable outcome of treatment. Your doctor will also help you decide which surgical approach will best meet your cosmetic goals: the “open” or classical method, or the endoscopic forehead lift. You will be shown several before and after treatment photographs of patients having similar conditions, and we will explain the treatment you can expect to receive. Before and after photos may be taken of your area to be treated to document your results. The Procedure A browlift can be performed as an out-patient procedure under local anesthesia with deep sedation, or general anesthesia, and may take 1 to 2 hours. With the classical or "open" method the incision is hidden just inside or by the hairline across the scalp and between the ears. Your surgeon lessens the appearance of wrinkles by removing selected muscles and releasing tissues, which cause the wrinkles. The eyebrows may also be elevated, and excess skin at the incision will be removed to allow a gentle redraping of your forehead skin. Endoscopic Browlift Endoscopic or minimal-scar browlift is performed using a tiny fiberoptic lens inserted through half-inch incisions placed in the hairline. The lens is attached to a camera, which is connected to a television, allowing for visualization of the surgery. Additional half-inch incisions are made for the insertion of tiny scalpels, scissors and retractors. Your surgeon performs the procedure while viewing the television monitor and manipulating the tiny instruments externally. What are the benefits of Endoscopic Browlift Surgery? • Smaller incisions • Minimal scarring • Less bleeding • Less hair loss • Minimal numbness • Quicker recovery What will your recovery be like? There is a minimal amount of discomfort following a browlift. There will be swelling and bruising that may last from seven to ten days. For some patients this may include the cheeks and eyelids. Keeping your head elevated and application of cold compresses will help to reduce swelling. As your incisions heal, you will notice some itching and possibly some numbness. These symptoms will diminish over time. You may wear make-up after three days, and your sutures will be removed in seven to ten days. Strenuous activity is restricted for six weeks. FaceLift When wrinkles take over Wrinkles, sagging skin, laxity in the jowls and neck begin to appear after years of exposure to the elements, facial expressions and the natural aging process. Not long ago, a facelift was considered by many to be reserved for movie stars and celebrities. Today, a facelift, or rhytidectomy, is not just for the rich and famous. It is one of the most well-accepted and most frequently performed cosmetic procedures in the United States. Recent studies have shown that looking good has a direct correlation to higher pay. Today, baby boomers from every walk of life are electing to have a facelift for cosmetic as well as economic reasons. Look as young as you feel If you have been considering a facelift to reverse the signs of aging, you should understand what a facelift can and can’t do. Although the incisions made for a facelift are hidden back in your hairline, it does nothing to correct the visible signs of aging in the upper face. A facelift provides an overall lift to the lower third of your face by tightening loose skin in the jowls, neck, and jaw line. A facelift alone will not remove forehead wrinkles, crow’s feet or bags under your eyes. These areas can, however, be treated at the same time as your facelift. During your initial consultation, your surgeon will discuss your particular condition, your expectations, and the probable outcome of your various treatment options. You will be shown several before and after photographs of patients having similar conditions, and we will explain the details of your procedure. Before and after photos may be taken of your face to document your results. The procedure A facelift procedure may be performed in your doctor’s office or in an outpatient surgical facility. Premedication is generally recommended to relax the patient. The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia with the patient asleep, but can be performed using a local anesthesia. Your surgeon will operate on one side of the face at a time. The incision is placed in the natural crease of the facial skin and begins inside the hairline, in the temple area above and forward of the ear. It continues inside the ear, or in front of the ear around the earlobe and behind the ear. The skin is lifted outward and the surgeon tightens and repositions the underlying muscles and tissues. Excess skin and fat may be removed. The incision is then closed with fine sutures and/or metal clips. If metal clips are used, shaving hair from the incision site may be avoided. A facelift can take between two to four hours depending on the extent of the procedure. How long will the results last? Some relaxation of facial tissues will occur during the first few weeks. After that, the aging process continues. Your lifestyle choices, bone structure, skin type, sun exposure and heredity all play a role in determining how many years can be removed and for how long. In general younger patients enjoy longer-lasting results. If you are in your forties, the effects may last up to 10 years. If you are in your sixties, your results may last 5 to 7 years. What about insurance? Surgery performed purely for cosmetic reasons may not be covered by your health insurance. However, cosmetic surgeries performed for medical or reconstructive reasons may be covered in part or in whole by your health insurance. It is the patient’s responsibility to check with their insurance provider for information on the degree of coverage. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding payment. What happens after my surgery? There will be bruising and swelling that will persist for a few days. Pain is normally minimal and can be controlled with oral medication. We will take off your bandages in our office in a day or two after surgery. You may then go home, take a shower and wash your hair. Sutures may be removed in stages to minimize scarring. Healing is a gradual process. After about two weeks you will feel comfortable (with make-up) among strangers. After three weeks you will look and feel confident enough to go out with friends again. Your face will feel completely “normal” in about ten to twelve weeks. Direct sun should be avoided for several weeks. Most patients are delighted with their new, more youthful and relaxed appearance. Eyelid Surgery In the morning Sometimes, even after a great night’s sleep, it can be hard to feel alive and vibrant when you see those tired, drooping eyes looking back at you from the mirror. The loose skin over your eyes and the fat bags under your eyes make you look more tired and older than you feel inside. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Each year thousands of women and men choose eyelid surgery to help restore a more energetic and youthful appearance. Eyelid surgery or blepharoplasty can correct sagging eyelids, remove fatty pouches beneath the eyes and remove excess skin from the upper eyelids. Blepharoplasty can be done alone or in conjunction with other facial surgery procedures such as a facelift, a brow lift or laser skin resurfacing. Your consultation During your initial cosmetic consultation, your doctor will discuss your particular condition, your expectations, and the probable outcome of treatment. You will be shown several before and after treatment photographs of patients having similar conditions, and you will receive an explanation of your treatment. Before and after photos may be taken of the area to be treated to document your results. The procedure Blepharoplasty can be performed in your doctor’s office, an outpatient surgical facility or a hospital. It is generally performed under local anesthesia, but can be performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon places fine incisions in the crease above each eye to correct problems of the upper eyelids. Then a thin crescent of excess skin and muscle is removed. The incisions are closed with very fine sutures. To remove the fatty deposits beneath the eyes, the incisions are placed just inside the lower eyelid. After the fat is removed, the incisions may be closed with absorbable sutures or may be left to heal naturally. When excess skin and muscle needs to be removed from the lower lids, the incisions are placed in the natural smile crease below the lashline. The procedure can take between one and two hours, depending on the extent of the surgery. What about insurance? Eyelid problems are common, even in younger people. Correcting eyelid problems that interfere with your vision may be covered by your health insurance. However, when eyelid surgery is performed for cosmetic reasons, it may not be covered in part or in whole by your health insurance. It is the patient’s responsibility to check with their insurance provider for the information on the degree of coverage. We will be happy to answer any questions. What about recovery? When the procedure is performed alone,## and not with a facelift, it is generally done under local anesthesia. After the surgery, the area around your eye will be bruised and swollen for about two weeks. Patients should keep their heads up and place cold compresses on their eyes periodically. Antibiotic eye drops or ointment may be prescribed. Patients can’t wear contact lenses for about two weeks, since the eyelids may be stiff and sore. Make-up may be worn after about ten days. The resulting hairline scars which follow the natural contour of the eyelids tend to fade in about two months. After cosmetic surgery, our patients have a softer, more youthful look to their faces. Many seem to have a new spring in their step after facing their fresher reflections in the mirror. Nose Surgery Your nose is the most prominent feature on your face, second only to your eyes. Its size and shape may be the most defining characteristic of your face. If you are unhappy with your nose, you're not alone. Every year, hundreds of thousands of people throughout the United States elect to improve the appearance and/or function of their noses through nose surgery or rhinoplasty. Some people want a different size or shape. Others wish to repair damage caused by an injury, and some just want to breathe easier. If you have been wondering how nose surgery might change your looks, improve your self-confidence or your breathing, you should schedule a consultation with a qualified surgeon. Your consultation The ideal nose varies from face to face depending on skin type, ethnic background, age, and other variables. During your initial cosmetic consultation, your doctor will discuss your concerns about your nose, your expectations, and explain the probable outcome of your procedure. Your doctor may show you several before and after treatment photographs of patients having similar noses, and your doctor will explain the treatment you can expect to receive. Before and after photos may be taken of your nose to document your results. Other considerations Before making the decision to have a rhinoplasty, ask your surgeon if there are any additional facial procedures that may enhance the effects of your nose surgery. Many patients elect to have chin or cheek implants to enhance and balance their facial features. The procedure Rhinoplasty is the reshaping of the nose. It can be performed on an outpatient basis under local or general anesthesia. The procedure usually takes an hour or two, although a complicated procedure may take longer. Most incisions are made inside the nose, where they are invisible. The skin and tissues of the nose along with the underlying bone and cartilage are sculpted by the surgeon to your desired new shape. If your nose is too large, for example, your surgeon may sculpt away cartilage to reduce its size. Noses that point up or droop down can be redirected by trimming the septum which divides the two nasal passages. Skin can be removed from both sides of the nostrils at the center, to narrow the base of the nose. Sometimes the contour can be improved by adding tissue. What about insurance? Breathing problems are common, even in younger people. Correcting problems that interfere with your breathing may be covered by your health insurance. However, when a rhinoplasty is performed for cosmetic reasons, it may not be covered, in part or in whole, by your health insurance. It is the patient’s responsibility to check with their insurance provider for information on the degree of coverage. We will be happy to answer any questions you have regarding payment. What will my recovery be like? Most rhinoplasty patients are up and active within two days. Your first day should be spent in bed with your head elevated. You will wear a small splint over your nose to protect it and keep it stable, for a week or so. Your nose and head will probably ache and your face will feel puffy. This discomfort can be alleviated with medication prescribed by your surgeon. After about three days, the swelling and bruising around your eyes will begin to subside. It should be almost completely gone in about two weeks. Cold compresses applied to the area will help reduce the swelling. Some bleeding is common the first few days after surgery, along with some stuffiness that could last a few weeks. It is recommended that you not blow your nose during the first week while the tissues are healing. After ten to twelve days all dressings, splints, and sutures should be removed and you can return to a normal life. Strenuous activities, rubbing or bumping your nose should be avoided for several more weeks. Ear Surgery Ear surgery, or otoplasty, is usually done to set prominent ears back closer to the head or to reduce the size of large ears. For the most part, the operation is done on children between the ages of four and 14. Ears are almost fully grown by age four, and the earlier the surgery, the less teasing and ridicule the child will have to endure. Ear surgery on adults is also possible, and there are generally no additional risks associated with ear surgery on an older patient. Chin and Cheek Implants Beauty may only be skin deep. But, for centuries, well-defined facial features have been considered traits of physical beauty. Prominent cheek bones and a strong chin provide balance and definition. For those lacking these natural marks of distinction, make-up was their only alternative. Now, thanks to modern technology, there is a safe, permanent method to correct a receding chin and provide those high cheekbones sought after by men and women worldwide. Chin augmentation or mentoplasty and cheek implants or malar augmentation are surgical procedures designed to provide a more vibrant and attractive look of distinction. These procedures can also benefit those with asymmetries or congenital defects. Chin implants are often recommended to patients undergoing nose surgery to achieve better facial balance. In patients 38-50 years old, cheek implants can improve the midfacial contour and restore sagging midfacial soft tissues, thus postponing the need for a facelift. For patients receiving a facelift, cheek implants can ensure longer-lasting results. Are chin and cheek implants safe? Facial implants have proven to provide a safe, predictable, low-cost, low-risk cosmetic surgical procedure. To date, millions of facial implants made from non-toxic materials such as silicone and expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) have been implanted, with no reported cases of allergic reaction. The implants, designed specifically for use in the midfacial cheek area and the chin come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. These implants can be custom-trimmed by your surgeon for a more natural fit. The procedure Both chin and cheek implantation procedures can be performed on an outpatient basis. They can be performed using general anesthesia with the patient asleep, or using a local anesthesia to numb the treated area while the patient remains awake. After cleansing the area, your surgeon will place small incisions either in natural crease lines or inside the mouth. The implants are placed through the incision and into position. The incisions are then closed using tiny sutures. What about insurance? Most health insurance does not cover procedures considered cosmetic. However, when implants are used to correct a defect, or for reconstructive purposes, they may be covered in part or in whole. It is your responsibility to check with your insurance provider for information on the degree of coverage. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding payment arrangements. How will my face feel after my implants are in? Following cheek augmentation, you can expect some discomfort, aching and some numbness along with some temporary swelling. Keeping your head elevated and applying cold compresses during the first 24 hours will help keep this to a minimum. Post-operative discomfort can be controlled with medication. Chewing food and brushing your teeth might be a little uncomfortable for a week to ten days. Following chin augmentation, your surgeon will apply a dressing that will cover the area for about three days. Post-operative discomfort can be controlled with medication. Keeping your head elevated and applying cold compresses during the first 24 hours will keep swelling to a minimum. A soft food diet may be required for a few days as chewing may be limited. All swelling should be gone within six weeks. External scars are minimal and will fade significantly over time. Strenuous activities should be avoided for several weeks.
It used to be that cosmetic surgery was for the over fifty crowd. Patients waited until they looked awful and then asked for "the works". Their results were dramatic, but, unfortunately, everyone could tell they just had surgery. Today, nearly one-third of those seeking facial rejuvenation surgery are between 35 and 50 years old. Wrinkles and frown lines often first appear in the brow and forehead area. A forehead lift or browlift can smooth out the wrinkles and correct drooping brows and heavy lids to provide a younger, friendlier appearance. A browlift can be performed alone or with other cosmetic procedures such as a facelift, eyelid surgery, or laser skin resurfacing.
During your initial cosmetic consultation, your doctor will discuss your goals for the surgery and explain your probable outcome of treatment. Your doctor will also help you decide which surgical approach will best meet your cosmetic goals: the “open” or classical method, or the endoscopic forehead lift. You will be shown several before and after treatment photographs of patients having similar conditions, and we will explain the treatment you can expect to receive. Before and after photos may be taken of your area to be treated to document your results.
A browlift can be performed as an out-patient procedure under local anesthesia with deep sedation, or general anesthesia, and may take 1 to 2 hours. With the classical or "open" method the incision is hidden just inside or by the hairline across the scalp and between the ears. Your surgeon lessens the appearance of wrinkles by removing selected muscles and releasing tissues, which cause the wrinkles. The eyebrows may also be elevated, and excess skin at the incision will be removed to allow a gentle redraping of your forehead skin.
Endoscopic or minimal-scar browlift is performed using a tiny fiberoptic lens inserted through half-inch incisions placed in the hairline. The lens is attached to a camera, which is connected to a television, allowing for visualization of the surgery. Additional half-inch incisions are made for the insertion of tiny scalpels, scissors and retractors. Your surgeon performs the procedure while viewing the television monitor and manipulating the tiny instruments externally.
• Smaller incisions • Minimal scarring • Less bleeding • Less hair loss • Minimal numbness • Quicker recovery
There is a minimal amount of discomfort following a browlift. There will be swelling and bruising that may last from seven to ten days. For some patients this may include the cheeks and eyelids. Keeping your head elevated and application of cold compresses will help to reduce swelling. As your incisions heal, you will notice some itching and possibly some numbness. These symptoms will diminish over time. You may wear make-up after three days, and your sutures will be removed in seven to ten days. Strenuous activity is restricted for six weeks.
Wrinkles, sagging skin, laxity in the jowls and neck begin to appear after years of exposure to the elements, facial expressions and the natural aging process.
Not long ago, a facelift was considered by many to be reserved for movie stars and celebrities. Today, a facelift, or rhytidectomy, is not just for the rich and famous. It is one of the most well-accepted and most frequently performed cosmetic procedures in the United States. Recent studies have shown that looking good has a direct correlation to higher pay. Today, baby boomers from every walk of life are electing to have a facelift for cosmetic as well as economic reasons.
If you have been considering a facelift to reverse the signs of aging, you should understand what a facelift can and can’t do. Although the incisions made for a facelift are hidden back in your hairline, it does nothing to correct the visible signs of aging in the upper face. A facelift provides an overall lift to the lower third of your face by tightening loose skin in the jowls, neck, and jaw line.
A facelift alone will not remove forehead wrinkles, crow’s feet or bags under your eyes. These areas can, however, be treated at the same time as your facelift. During your initial consultation, your surgeon will discuss your particular condition, your expectations, and the probable outcome of your various treatment options. You will be shown several before and after photographs of patients having similar conditions, and we will explain the details of your procedure. Before and after photos may be taken of your face to document your results.
A facelift procedure may be performed in your doctor’s office or in an outpatient surgical facility. Premedication is generally recommended to relax the patient. The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia with the patient asleep, but can be performed using a local anesthesia. Your surgeon will operate on one side of the face at a time. The incision is placed in the natural crease of the facial skin and begins inside the hairline, in the temple area above and forward of the ear. It continues inside the ear, or in front of the ear around the earlobe and behind the ear. The skin is lifted outward and the surgeon tightens and repositions the underlying muscles and tissues. Excess skin and fat may be removed. The incision is then closed with fine sutures and/or metal clips. If metal clips are used, shaving hair from the incision site may be avoided. A facelift can take between two to four hours depending on the extent of the procedure.
Some relaxation of facial tissues will occur during the first few weeks. After that, the aging process continues. Your lifestyle choices, bone structure, skin type, sun exposure and heredity all play a role in determining how many years can be removed and for how long. In general younger patients enjoy longer-lasting results. If you are in your forties, the effects may last up to 10 years. If you are in your sixties, your results may last 5 to 7 years.
Surgery performed purely for cosmetic reasons may not be covered by your health insurance. However, cosmetic surgeries performed for medical or reconstructive reasons may be covered in part or in whole by your health insurance. It is the patient’s responsibility to check with their insurance provider for information on the degree of coverage. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding payment.
There will be bruising and swelling that will persist for a few days. Pain is normally minimal and can be controlled with oral medication. We will take off your bandages in our office in a day or two after surgery. You may then go home, take a shower and wash your hair. Sutures may be removed in stages to minimize scarring.
Healing is a gradual process. After about two weeks you will feel comfortable (with make-up) among strangers. After three weeks you will look and feel confident enough to go out with friends again. Your face will feel completely “normal” in about ten to twelve weeks. Direct sun should be avoided for several weeks. Most patients are delighted with their new, more youthful and relaxed appearance.
Sometimes, even after a great night’s sleep, it can be hard to feel alive and vibrant when you see those tired, drooping eyes looking back at you from the mirror. The loose skin over your eyes and the fat bags under your eyes make you look more tired and older than you feel inside.
If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Each year thousands of women and men choose eyelid surgery to help restore a more energetic and youthful appearance. Eyelid surgery or blepharoplasty can correct sagging eyelids, remove fatty pouches beneath the eyes and remove excess skin from the upper eyelids. Blepharoplasty can be done alone or in conjunction with other facial surgery procedures such as a facelift, a brow lift or laser skin resurfacing.
During your initial cosmetic consultation, your doctor will discuss your particular condition, your expectations, and the probable outcome of treatment. You will be shown several before and after treatment photographs of patients having similar conditions, and you will receive an explanation of your treatment. Before and after photos may be taken of the area to be treated to document your results.
Blepharoplasty can be performed in your doctor’s office, an outpatient surgical facility or a hospital. It is generally performed under local anesthesia, but can be performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon places fine incisions in the crease above each eye to correct problems of the upper eyelids. Then a thin crescent of excess skin and muscle is removed. The incisions are closed with very fine sutures. To remove the fatty deposits beneath the eyes, the incisions are placed just inside the lower eyelid. After the fat is removed, the incisions may be closed with absorbable sutures or may be left to heal naturally. When excess skin and muscle needs to be removed from the lower lids, the incisions are placed in the natural smile crease below the lashline. The procedure can take between one and two hours, depending on the extent of the surgery.
Eyelid problems are common, even in younger people. Correcting eyelid problems that interfere with your vision may be covered by your health insurance. However, when eyelid surgery is performed for cosmetic reasons, it may not be covered in part or in whole by your health insurance. It is the patient’s responsibility to check with their insurance provider for the information on the degree of coverage. We will be happy to answer any questions.
When the procedure is performed alone,## and not with a facelift, it is generally done under local anesthesia. After the surgery, the area around your eye will be bruised and swollen for about two weeks. Patients should keep their heads up and place cold compresses on their eyes periodically. Antibiotic eye drops or ointment may be prescribed. Patients can’t wear contact lenses for about two weeks, since the eyelids may be stiff and sore. Make-up may be worn after about ten days. The resulting hairline scars which follow the natural contour of the eyelids tend to fade in about two months.
After cosmetic surgery, our patients have a softer, more youthful look to their faces. Many seem to have a new spring in their step after facing their fresher reflections in the mirror.
Your nose is the most prominent feature on your face, second only to your eyes. Its size and shape may be the most defining characteristic of your face. If you are unhappy with your nose, you're not alone. Every year, hundreds of thousands of people throughout the United States elect to improve the appearance and/or function of their noses through nose surgery or rhinoplasty. Some people want a different size or shape. Others wish to repair damage caused by an injury, and some just want to breathe easier. If you have been wondering how nose surgery might change your looks, improve your self-confidence or your breathing, you should schedule a consultation with a qualified surgeon.
The ideal nose varies from face to face depending on skin type, ethnic background, age, and other variables. During your initial cosmetic consultation, your doctor will discuss your concerns about your nose, your expectations, and explain the probable outcome of your procedure. Your doctor may show you several before and after treatment photographs of patients having similar noses, and your doctor will explain the treatment you can expect to receive. Before and after photos may be taken of your nose to document your results.
Before making the decision to have a rhinoplasty, ask your surgeon if there are any additional facial procedures that may enhance the effects of your nose surgery. Many patients elect to have chin or cheek implants to enhance and balance their facial features.
Rhinoplasty is the reshaping of the nose. It can be performed on an outpatient basis under local or general anesthesia. The procedure usually takes an hour or two, although a complicated procedure may take longer. Most incisions are made inside the nose, where they are invisible. The skin and tissues of the nose along with the underlying bone and cartilage are sculpted by the surgeon to your desired new shape.
If your nose is too large, for example, your surgeon may sculpt away cartilage to reduce its size. Noses that point up or droop down can be redirected by trimming the septum which divides the two nasal passages. Skin can be removed from both sides of the nostrils at the center, to narrow the base of the nose. Sometimes the contour can be improved by adding tissue.
Breathing problems are common, even in younger people. Correcting problems that interfere with your breathing may be covered by your health insurance. However, when a rhinoplasty is performed for cosmetic reasons, it may not be covered, in part or in whole, by your health insurance. It is the patient’s responsibility to check with their insurance provider for information on the degree of coverage. We will be happy to answer any questions you have regarding payment.
Most rhinoplasty patients are up and active within two days. Your first day should be spent in bed with your head elevated. You will wear a small splint over your nose to protect it and keep it stable, for a week or so. Your nose and head will probably ache and your face will feel puffy. This discomfort can be alleviated with medication prescribed by your surgeon. After about three days, the swelling and bruising around your eyes will begin to subside. It should be almost completely gone in about two weeks. Cold compresses applied to the area will help reduce the swelling.
Some bleeding is common the first few days after surgery, along with some stuffiness that could last a few weeks. It is recommended that you not blow your nose during the first week while the tissues are healing. After ten to twelve days all dressings, splints, and sutures should be removed and you can return to a normal life. Strenuous activities, rubbing or bumping your nose should be avoided for several more weeks.
Ear Surgery
Ear surgery, or otoplasty, is usually done to set prominent ears back closer to the head or to reduce the size of large ears. For the most part, the operation is done on children between the ages of four and 14. Ears are almost fully grown by age four, and the earlier the surgery, the less teasing and ridicule the child will have to endure. Ear surgery on adults is also possible, and there are generally no additional risks associated with ear surgery on an older patient.
Beauty may only be skin deep. But, for centuries, well-defined facial features have been considered traits of physical beauty. Prominent cheek bones and a strong chin provide balance and definition. For those lacking these natural marks of distinction, make-up was their only alternative.
Now, thanks to modern technology, there is a safe, permanent method to correct a receding chin and provide those high cheekbones sought after by men and women worldwide. Chin augmentation or mentoplasty and cheek implants or malar augmentation are surgical procedures designed to provide a more vibrant and attractive look of distinction. These procedures can also benefit those with asymmetries or congenital defects. Chin implants are often recommended to patients undergoing nose surgery to achieve better facial balance. In patients 38-50 years old, cheek implants can improve the midfacial contour and restore sagging midfacial soft tissues, thus postponing the need for a facelift. For patients receiving a facelift, cheek implants can ensure longer-lasting results.
Facial implants have proven to provide a safe, predictable, low-cost, low-risk cosmetic surgical procedure. To date, millions of facial implants made from non-toxic materials such as silicone and expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) have been implanted, with no reported cases of allergic reaction. The implants, designed specifically for use in the midfacial cheek area and the chin come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. These implants can be custom-trimmed by your surgeon for a more natural fit.
Both chin and cheek implantation procedures can be performed on an outpatient basis. They can be performed using general anesthesia with the patient asleep, or using a local anesthesia to numb the treated area while the patient remains awake. After cleansing the area, your surgeon will place small incisions either in natural crease lines or inside the mouth. The implants are placed through the incision and into position. The incisions are then closed using tiny sutures.
Most health insurance does not cover procedures considered cosmetic. However, when implants are used to correct a defect, or for reconstructive purposes, they may be covered in part or in whole. It is your responsibility to check with your insurance provider for information on the degree of coverage. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding payment arrangements.
Following cheek augmentation, you can expect some discomfort, aching and some numbness along with some temporary swelling. Keeping your head elevated and applying cold compresses during the first 24 hours will help keep this to a minimum. Post-operative discomfort can be controlled with medication. Chewing food and brushing your teeth might be a little uncomfortable for a week to ten days.
Following chin augmentation, your surgeon will apply a dressing that will cover the area for about three days. Post-operative discomfort can be controlled with medication. Keeping your head elevated and applying cold compresses during the first 24 hours will keep swelling to a minimum. A soft food diet may be required for a few days as chewing may be limited. All swelling should be gone within six weeks. External scars are minimal and will fade significantly over time. Strenuous activities should be avoided for several weeks.
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