The Top Reasons for Getting Plastic Surgery
(Not-so) reality TV has given plastic surgery a bad rap. Too much programming focuses on eccentric, shallow people seeking out plastic surgery for all the wrong reasons.
This is unfortunate because the vast majority of plastic surgeons are doing a lot of good for their patients. After all, there are truly legitimate reasons for getting plastic surgery.
Some of them might even surprise you.
1. Addressing Health Issues
Next time you take a full deep inhale and exhale through your nose, think for a moment how it would feel to have a constant obstruction that never allowed for such a seemingly simple action. This is the case for folks with a crooked septum or nasal polyps. Plus, they tend to suffer from more severe allergies and sinus troubles.
Enter the “nose job.” Also known as rhinoplasty, this procedure is often requested by patients who have some sort of defect inside their noses. And yeah, sure. Rhinoplasty can also address the external appearance of the nose. Which is an added benefit.
It’s not just a faulty nose that can present health problems though. Some women struggle with chronic and severe back and shoulder pain as a result of breasts that are too large. A breast reduction surgery eases this pain and allows them more freedom of movement.
Furthermore, vision problems that come from heavy, drooping, or sagging eyelids can be corrected by blepharoplasty. And just as is the case with a rhinoplasty, the procedure also helps to improve the appearance of the eyes.
2. Boosting Confidence
Some patients DO seek out a plastic surgery procedure for cosmetic purposes. And that’s completely valid. For example, a man who is constantly troubled by his facial reflection in the mirror can feel better about himself after a facelift. Or a woman who feels self-conscious about how her clothes fit because of the size of her breasts may opt for a breast augmentation. Another woman may wish to reclaim her body after a tough pregnancy.
It’s important to remember that mental health is just as important as physical health. There’s a great deal to be said about boosting one’s confidence to bolster positive mental health outcomes. Because when people feel good about their physical appearance, they are more likely to present themselves to the world in a positive way.
3. Increased Safety and Affordability
Plastic surgery has made great technological strides in the past decade. The presence of lasers, pulsating light, and advanced skin treatment options are now within reach of most plastic surgeons. Plus, such strides have made these procedures safer.
These advances have also made plastic surgery more in reach for everyone. It’s no longer the domain of the wealthy Beverly Hills diva who has a few weeks free to get her face done.
Nowadays, plastic surgeons are seeing far more working professionals who are seeking a procedure for any of the above reasons. And with medical credit cards, payment plans, personal loans, and other financing options available, they can make these procedures a reality.
4. More Time on Screens
In the past ten years, everyone is seeing more of their faces everywhere. Selfies, cell phones, and social media platforms were to thank for this. Then came 2020 and COVID. Within a month, many of us were staring at our reflections day after day on Zoom. And some of us were less than satisfied.
Let’s face it. (Pun intended.) This trend isn’t going anywhere too quickly. And as a result, an increasing number of people are seeking out plastic surgery to manage this self-scrutiny with more ease. And why not? Haven’t we been through enough?
What Are Your Reasons For Getting Plastic Surgery?
There are clearly a lot of great reasons for getting plastic surgery. So if you’ve been considering it, now is the time to take that step!
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation. We’ll sit down to discuss the options available to you to get you started.
Do You Need Revision Surgery?
Plastic surgery can be life-changing in so many positive ways. There are occasions though, rare as they may be, where the results of the surgery aren’t… ideal.
In the vast majority of plastic surgery procedures, when you do the research and choose a board-certified plastic surgeon to perform it, the results are exactly what you’d hoped for and anticipated.
But in unusual cases where the surgery results in unaddressed issues or more problems rather than fewer, you will need to look into revision surgery.
There Are Multiple Forms of Revision Surgery
Revision surgery is any procedure that is performed to correct negative issues that resulted from a previous surgery. And to be clear, it is not unique to plastic surgery. It’s performed across the spectrum of surgical specialities.
That’s why it’s essential to vet any surgeon that will be operating on you. Just because a plastic surgeon has a degree doesn’t mean he or she is uniquely qualified to perform the procedure you require. And if you end up with a botched up job, you could end up struggling with excessive scarring, aesthetic problems, or even functional issues.
While there are any number of revision surgeries, the following are among the most common in plastic surgery:
- Facial Procedures
Rhinoplasty, also known as a nose job, requires precision to deliver exact results. If the nostrils end up too narrow or wide or the tip of the nose is droopy after surgery, it’s impossible to hide. So this is among the most common revision procedures for plastic surgery.
In addition, rhinoplasty may be performed for functional issues such as improving breathing and reducing snoring. If the initial surgery fails to address these, a revision surgery would be a definite consideration.
It would also be suggested for patients who are dissatisfied with continued jowls or changes to appearance after a facelift; or for those who are uncomfortable with the look, feel, or size of facial implants.
- Breast Procedures
When patients come in for either a breast lift, breast augmentation, or breast reduction, they are seeking breasts that are symmetrical and have a natural look and feel. This is also true for patients who have undergone reconstructive surgery after a mastectomy. If a surgeon is unable to deliver these results, a revision surgery is needed.
In addition, revision surgery is required if there is capsular contracture, or the breast implant has deflated, eroded, or is simply malpositioned.
- Tummy Tuck
Surgical revision after a tummy tuck, a.k.a. abdominoplasty, is not as common. And in many cases, it’s not technically revision surgery if the patient’s dissatisfaction is the result of gaining or losing weight or getting pregnant after the surgery.
There are rare incidents though where a raised scar, abnormal belly button, or continued excess skin are cause for revision surgery.
No matter what the cause for potential revision surgery, it is not a decision to be made without weighing all your options.
Revision Surgery Is Not a Quick Go-To
Keep in mind that recovery from any surgery takes time. You don’t want to be too quick to assume that something terrible is happening during the healing process. You’ll need to be patient. Swelling subsides, scars fade, and the body eventually adjusts to its new situation. Depending on a wide array of factors, could take up to a year.
In addition, you’ll be faced with the additional cost of the surgery, as well as the recovery time required after the procedure. In other words, it’s not a quick solution. So unless you’re deeply dissatisfied or the surgeon has made an egregious error, it should only be considered after a great deal of thought.
Are You Dissatisfied With a Plastic Surgical Procedure?
If you’re not happy with the outcome of a plastic surgery procedure and would like to explore the option of revision surgery, contact us today for a free consultation.
You’ll be able to sit down with our doctors and discuss all of your options.
Then it’s determined that revision is right for you, you can rest easy in knowing that our board-certified plastic surgeons skilled in the revision process will give you the results you desired – and deserved – the first time around.
Getting Your Pre-Pregnancy Body Back
Ah, the miracle of life.
What’s even more miraculous though is that a woman’s body can survive the particular assault that is pregnancy. If you have children, you understand.
And if you’re feeling less confident about your appearance these days, you may be wondering if there are ways of getting your pre-pregnancy body back. You’re in luck. There are!
Getting Your Pre-Pregnancy Body Back With Diet and Exercise?
Many women immediately go-to diet and exercise in an attempt to return to their pre-pregnancy bodies. And these are helpful ways to enrich the mind and the body.
Yet, while nobody should be discouraged from living a healthier lifestyle, for most women, diet and exercise alone simply aren’t enough to remedy the ravages of pregnancy and nursing.
That’s because diet and exercise can’t eliminate the excess skin and loss of volume in the breasts that come post-pregnancy and particularly post-nursing. They also can’t address the stretch marks that are the result of skin being overstretched very quickly and unable to snap back.
Furthermore, no matter how many crunches you do, they can’t repair diastasis recti – that pregnancy-like pouch in the belly that refuses to disappear even after the baby has made its exit. Even premature facial aging can occur postpartum. And there’s no diet for that.
Fortunately, there IS plastic surgery. And there are a number of procedures (collectively known as a “Mommy Makeover”) that a board-certified plastic surgeon can perform to help you instill that pre-pregnancy confidence.
- Liposuction
For some women, their only post-pregnancy complaint is the ability to lose fat in troublesome spots such as in the stomach, waist, hips, and thighs. In this case, the surgeon will recommend liposuction.
With liposuction, small incisions are made in the treatment area and then a thin hollow tube, called a cannula, is inserted through the incisions to loosen excess fat cells. A surgical vacuum is then used to suction the fat out of those areas to create a slimmer body contour.
- Breast Lift/Augmentation
It’s rare that a woman will need only liposuction after pregnancy. Especially if there are multiple children. The demands placed upon the breasts during pregnancy and nursing are intense. As such, the breasts are prone to sagging.
In order to restore the breasts to their original and more youthful pre-pregnancy position, a plastic surgeon might recommend a breast lift, breast augmentation, or breast lift with either silicone or saline implants.
There are three types of breast lift procedures:
The first utilizes a periareolar incision and is typically best for someone who has large areolas and minimal sagging or drooping that need correction. A vertical breast reduction does the same as the periareolar incision, but it also extends down from the areola to deliver a more significant lift for moderate drooping. Finally, the inverted t-shape incision adds an additional incision within the breast fold for increased lift where necessary.
In cases where the breasts become too large after pregnancy and are no longer proportionate to the body, the surgeon would likely recommend a breast reduction.
- Tummy Tuck
As if the stretch marks along the belly aren’t enough of a tell-tale sign of a previous pregnancy, there is the above-mentioned belly pouch that is a result of diastasis recti.
Tummy tuck to the rescue. Also known as abdominoplasty, a tummy tuck is a surgical procedure that reduces excess fat and skin around the abdomen and reconstructs the abdominal wall musculature.
The result is a flatter belly and minimal stretch marks.
- Facial Rejuvenation
The stress of pregnancy, as well as raising young children, can easily show up in the form of premature aging in the face. So even though facial rejuvenation isn’t a standard part of the Mommy Makeover, your surgeon may recommend a facelift or Botox injections to build upon the youthful appearance gained by the other procedures.
Postpartum Body Confidence Is a Reality
Getting your pre-pregnancy body back isn’t just a pipe dream.
So if you’re feeling less than satisfied with your post-pregnancy body, contact us today for a free consultation about how a Mommy Makeover could work for you.
Once the procedures are completed, you’ll walk away with restored confidence and ready to face the challenges of motherhood with vigor.
Why Personalized Care and Procedures Matter
It’s been said time again that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. So when you have a specific aesthetic you’re trying to achieve, why settle for standard-issue procedures from your plastic surgeon?
You shouldn’t.
When you’re considering plastic surgery, personalized care and procedures matter more than you think. So when it’s time to choose your board-certified plastic surgeon, you want one who is going to give you the individualized attention you deserve.
There Is No Such Thing As One-Size-Fits-All
While symmetry and balance are desirable attributes, there are so many other variables and factors that come into play when surgeons plan procedures. Each patient is unique and any surgeon who doesn’t take the time to offer personalized care and procedures is not worth your time (or money).
A truly skilled plastic surgeon is one who customizes each procedure to meet the individual needs of the patient. Before even considering a surgical procedure, he or she will do the following:
- Look At the Body As a Whole
It’s not unusual for women to seek out plastic surgery for breast augmentation. And in many cases, women want larger and fuller breasts. That’s totally understandable.
However, if the patient in question is thin and has a small frame, she’s not going to fare well with the same sized implants that a taller woman with a medium frame would. (Even if she thinks she will.) She’s going to need implants that make sense for her size.
In the same vein, when a patient comes to the surgeon with an idea of what’s going to be the “perfect nose,” the surgeon must consider the entire structure of the face and its existing features when planning a rhinoplasty procedure.
- Discuss Appearance Goals
Similar to the need to regard the patient’s body as a whole, it’s important that the surgeon discuss what the patient sees as his or her ideal and offer best methods.
For instance, sometimes during a consultation, a patient will insist that he or she needs a tummy tuck to take off that extra belly weight. And that may be exactly what he or she needs. However, if the same level of satisfaction can be achieved through an easier procedure like liposuction, a surgeon who practices personalized care would recommend this.
- Take Lifestyle Into Consideration
For plastic surgeons, the patient’s lifestyle choices are important factors to consider when personalizing a procedure and care plan.
There are occasions where a patient wants to achieve a specific look that involves a series of different surgeries. This can take a lot of time. If this patient has a large family or a job that demands a lot of his or her time, the surgeries would likely need to be spread out over a longer amount of time or even put on hold.
Meanwhile, patients who have a poor diet and/or are fairly sedentary should expect to experience longer healing times. And for patients who smoke, they will be asked to quit before partaking in any surgical procedure.
Personalized Care and Procedures Matter
It’s clear that in order to get the best results from plastic surgery, personalized care and procedures matter. So contact us today for a free consultation.
Through comprehensive communication about your body type, goals/expectations and lifestyle, our board-certified surgeons will create an individualized treatment plan designed specifically for you.
How Cosmetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery Differ
What do you think of when you hear the words “cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery”?
Chances are, you think that cosmetic is for those who want to get rid of wrinkles or enhance a body part, while reconstructive is more needful.
That’s not entirely incorrect. However, there are plenty of occasions where elective cosmetic surgery can be as life changing as reconstructive.
We’ll break them down here.
Cosmetic Surgery
Yes. As the name implies, the aim of cosmetic surgery is to enhance one’s appearance by reshaping different parts of the anatomy to make them more visually appealing.
Cosmetic plastic surgery is performed on all areas of the body, head, and neck. It treats areas that already function properly. Even so, there are many cosmetic surgeries that also improve function. For example, a rhinoplasty procedure (nose job) can help to improve breathing while also enhancing the appearance of the nose.
A vast array of procedures fall under the cosmetic surgery umbrella. Breast augmentation, reduction, and lift all fall into this category. So do procedures that aim to contour or rejuvenate the face, including rhinoplasty, facelift, eyelid lift, neck lift, and brow lift. A tummy tuck, liposuction, and gynecomastia repair, as well as skin rejuvenation procedures such as laser resurfacing, botox, and filler treatments are all considered cosmetic procedures.
Reconstructive Surgery
Cosmetic and reconstructive surgery differ in that the latter is considered medically necessary.
The objective of reconstructive surgery is to both improve appearance and restore function of the targeted area(s). It aims to correct deformities caused by trauma, disease, or birth defects. Two of the most common types of procedures are breast reconstruction following a lumpectomy or mastectomy, as well as reconstructive surgery after burn injuries.
Other examples include cleft lip and palate repair, extremity defect repair, lower extremity reconstruction, scar revision, and hand surgery.
Is There An Overlap?
Regardless of whether it’s cosmetic or reconstructive surgery, the underlying surgical principles are the same. And ultimately, the goal is to maximize the cosmetic result as much as possible. So there’s really quite a significant overlap between these two surgeries.
The basis of surgical training for plastic surgeons is of the reconstructive variety – though many go on to complete additional training to perform cosmetic surgery. The two are so closely interconnected that in 1999, the American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons changed its name to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
The aim was to communicate the message that there’s virtually no difference between plastic and reconstructive surgeons.
The Board-Certified Difference
A plastic surgeon with the “board-certified” designation indicates an advanced level of training and experience.
Board-certified surgeons are required to complete one of two routes of training. They either partake in an integrated residency training that combines three years of general surgery and three years of plastic surgery or
an independent, five-year residency program in general surgery which is then followed by the three-year plastic surgery residency program.
So it’s in a patient’s best interest to insist on a board-certified plastic surgeon.
Cosmetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery Changes Lives
Both cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery procedures have the ability to improve one’s health and well-being. So if you feel that you could benefit from either of these, contact us today.
No matter which one might be right for you, you’ll have the opportunity to discuss the anticipated result with your surgeon who will ensure that appropriate expectations are met.
Is There a Most Difficult Plastic Surgery Procedure?
Though it’s difficult to single out a gold medal winner of “most difficult plastic surgery procedure,” breast augmentation with a mastopexy is definitely a front-runner.
Also known as a breast lift with implants, this dual procedure is essentially the increasing or restoring of breast size and shape with implants (augmentation) combined with a breast lift (mastopexy).
And it’s an involved process.
What Does a Breast Augmentation With a Mastopexy Entail?
We won’t get too deep into the details on this one.
In the simplest of terms, the procedure starts with incisions that are made according to a specific treatment plan. The plastic surgeon then creates a pocket where a saline or silicone implant will be placed either underneath or on top of the pectoral muscle.
The nipple and areola are placed higher on the breast and, if needed, are resized. The surgeon will then reshape the breast tissue to the desired contour and remove any excess skin to create a firmer and more defined appearance.
Once the procedure is complete, incisions are carefully closed with sutures. Sounds pretty straightforward, right?
So Then What Makes it Such a Difficult Plastic Surgery Procedure?
Multiple procedures that set out to achieve two different outcomes are always going to be more complex.
Breast augmentation with a mastopexy is considered one of the more difficult procedures because the surgeon is required to add volume and downward force from the implant, while simultaneously removing skin and elevating the breast upward. This creates multiple competing factors which make the surgery challenging.
Furthermore, maintaining anatomical blood supply to the areola, nipple, and skin during the procedure is critical in avoiding nipple necrosis, skin necrosis, large wounds, implant exposure, or other complications.
This is why it’s essential that only board-certified plastic surgeons with many cases and years of experience perform such a difficult procedure. In some cases, surgeons may opt to do the two surgeries separately – depending on the patient’s needs that are established in the consultation.
What Can You Expect During the Consultation?
To ensure that you’re getting premium medical care for this involved procedure, any skilled plastic surgery worth his or her salt with ask you to fill out a complete medical history.
They will need to know about past and present medical conditions, previous surgeries or treatments, medications and supplements you take, family history of breast cancer, use of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs, allergies, and pregnancies. Patients over 40 may also need to provide mammogram results within the past year.
Once you’ve provided your medical history, your board-certified plastic surgeon will sit down with you to discuss your needs and goals – as well as any concerns you might have. Based on all of this information, he or she will be completely frank about your ability to achieve the outcome you desire and assess whether you’re a viable candidate for breast augmentation with mastopexy.
If you find a surgeon unwilling to cover all of these bases, your best bet is to avoid this involved procedure. Because sadly, breast augmentation with a mastopexy is also one of the most highly litigated procedures. So stick with experience.
It definitely matters.
Could You Benefit From a Breast Augmentation with a Mastopexy?
Although considered a difficult plastic surgery procedure, a breast lift with implants has been a godsend for many women.
So if you’re frustrated by breasts that have lost volume and firmness, are different in size or shape, or you have nipples pointing downwards or below the breast crease, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation.
Our board-certified plastic surgeons are highly experienced in performing this procedure and will take the necessary time to assess your situation and offer realistic expectations. Then given that strong foundation, you can decide next steps.
How Plastic Surgery Affects Self-Esteem
There are multiple reasons people seek out plastic surgery procedures. As such, there are myriad different procedures available from butt lifts to rhinoplasty to breast augmentation.
While there are those who think plastic surgery is something only the most vain among us engage in, there is something to be said for how plastic surgery affects self-esteem.
Patients who seek plastic surgery often feel self-conscious about certain aspects of their physical appearance that stand out and don’t fall in line with their personalities. If such features are very pronounced or draw negative attention, they can have deep emotional consequences.
Plastic Surgery Affects Self-Esteem
And for the better!
Studies show that the vast majority of patients are satisfied with the results of plastic surgery. However, it’s crucial that patients go in with realistic expectations. When approaching their procedure from this mindset, they not only notice improved self-esteem, but improved body image which adds to their quality of life.
And because they feel better about themselves, many report feeling less shy and more confident in how they deal with relationships at both work and at home.
Of course, not all surgeries are equal. Generally speaking, the more impactful the surgery, the bigger difference it’ll make. For example, patients who have rhinoplasty or breast augmentation procedures are likely to report a bigger boost in self-esteem than those who have more restorative procedures such as a facelift or Botox.
Even so, although such procedures have more subtle results, that doesn’t mean there is no noticeable difference in self-esteem. It’s just often commensurate with how much of a change occurs as a result of the procedure.
What the Studies Further Say
Studies have shown that people report increased satisfaction with body image after the procedure, with many reporting that plastic surgery boosts their quality of life and self-confidence in the long term.
In fact, when David Sarwer, PhD was an Associate Professor of Psychology at the Center for Human Appearance at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine in 2005, he found that 87% of patients reported satisfaction with their overall body image (and especially with the body part that was altered) a year after receiving plastic surgery. They also noted feeling less negative about their body image in social situations. The study was supported by the Aesthetic Surgery Education and Research Foundation.
These days, Dr. Sarwer is Associate Dean for Research and Director of the Center for Obesity Research and Education at the College of Public Health at Temple University. He maintains an active program of research on the psychological aspects of physical appearance.
With the ever increasing popularity of plastic surgery procedures, his findings have prompted him to question whether more psychologists will begin to examine the link between improving appearance as a means to address psychiatric disorders such as eating disorders, social phobia and sexual functioning.
“Scientifically, we’re just starting to catch up to the popularity of [plastic surgery] in the population,” he says. Whatever the case, it seems clear that plastic surgery is so much more than plumping lips and shrinking bellies. With its positive impact on self-esteem, it could just have far-reaching psychological benefits as well.
And that’s saying a lot.
Could You Use a Boost in Self-Esteem?
If there’s some aspect of your physical appearance that leaves you feeling overly self-conscious and is zapping your confidence, why struggle with these emotional consequences?
It’s obvious that plastic surgery affects self-esteem in a really positive way. So contact us today for a free consultation to discuss the area(s) you’d like to target.
It could be the difference between simply living, and living your fullest and happiest life.
What Is the Permanence of Plastic Surgery?
If you’re pondering getting some “work” done, you may be wondering… what is the permanence of plastic surgery?
We could go all philosophical and tell you that nothing is permanent. Just as you may get work done on your house – such as a new roof – you know that over time, you will need another.
Even so, there are some plastic surgery procedures that have far more staying power than others. And there are even a few that, under the right conditions and with proper maintenance, could be permanent.
At least for the span of a person’s life. (Which, let’s face it, is also impermanent.)
The Permanence of Plastic Surgery Based on Procedures
We’ll take a look at some of the most common procedures and what you might experience in terms of how long it will last.
Liposuction
Most people get liposuction to eliminate fat in undesirable areas. Yet, while the research is inconclusive, the generally held belief is that while you can permanently remove fat from one area, it may find its way back to another area with weight gain. So why bother with liposuction?
Well, here’s why.
When done correctly by a qualified board-certified plastic surgeon, even if there is a return of fat, liposuction can result in a more shapely figure.
For example, getting liposuction to remove belly fat could result in curvier hips if new fat finds its way there. While this may not be the exact scenario, if fat does return, you can be assured it’s going to be more evenly distributed across the body and not to the problem area.
Breast Augmentation
Given the right set of circumstances, breast augmentation can last up to 25 years. Even so, some patients get updates before that time.
The main reason? Most have second thoughts about the size once they’ve had their implants for a while. They may want them larger, smaller, or removed altogether.
Which brings us to our next procedure…
Breast Reduction
This is one of the few procedures that typically garners permanent results. There are two factors that determine this though. First, the procedure must be done after puberty. And second, patients cannot experience any major weight fluctuations after the surgery if they want permanent results.
Tummy Tuck
Like a breast reduction, a tummy tuck can be permanent. But also like a breast reduction, there are factors involved.
First, and most importantly, any major weight gain (anything over 20% of the patient’s weight) will render the tummy tuck ineffective. So what a patient does post-surgery makes a huge difference in terms of how long a tummy tuck will last.
Furthermore, for a woman, it’s important that she is done having children.
And a second tummy tuck is not an option, since there isn’t enough loose skin to perform the procedure (unless, of course, the patient loses a VERY significant amount of weight).
Facelift
While a facelift can leave you looking 10, 15, or even 20 years younger, it cannot stop you from continuing to age. In most cases, a complete facelift will need to be updated in ten years; with mini face lifts coming in at more around two to five years.
There are occasions though where patients find that the initial face lift surgery sets up their face to age in a such a way that they find much more satisfying. This is particularly true for those with good genes and healthy skin. For them, no updates are required.
Brow Lift
As you age, the brows can begin to droop and result in a heavy appearance around the eyes. This can also lend to deep creases in the forehead.
Much like with a full facelift, a brow lift surgery will not stop the aging process. The natural breakdown of skin and tissues will continue even after the procedure. So the brow lift will also need updating in around ten years.
Rhinoplasty
As long as a “nose job” is successful, the bone structure in the nose is unlikely to change over time. Thus, rhinoplasty is generally considered a permanent procedure.
It’s important to note though that natural changes due to aging will still occur. Once folks hit their 60s, their noses get bigger. So it’s possible a rhinoplasty procedure done very early in life may need a revision in later years.
Get the Most From Your Plastic Surgery Procedure
If you’re still curious about the permanence of plastic surgery and are on the fence about having a procedure performed, we invite you to contact us.
During your free consultation, we’ll talk with you about what you can expect, how long your results will last, and what your role will be after your surgery.
From there, you can make a truly informed decision.
Maintaining Plastic Surgery Post-Op Results
Plastic surgery is just like any other surgery.
So just as you wouldn’t (we hope!) do nothing but sit on your couch and eat salty potato chips after heart surgery, there are effective ways of maintaining plastic surgery post-op results too.
Although some of them may require a small amount of medical intervention, but most of them are pretty straightforward lifestyle choices.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices Make a Big Difference
To maintain plastic surgery results more effectively, you’ll need to take a look at the choices you make from day to day. Ask yourself the following questions:
- Are You Eating a Healthy Diet?
Large shifts in weight gain and loss can ruin the elastin and collagen of the skin, so it’s important you’re eating well.
Avoid foods that are high in sugar, dairy, and refined grains – especially right after your surgery. They can increase inflammation, swelling, and pain.
Then once you’ve recovered from your surgery, you’ll want to continue focusing on healthy eating. This is especially key after any body shaping procedure. For example, maintaining low visceral fat after a tummy tuck is crucial.
Whatever the case, stick with lean protein. Healing incisions and all postoperative wounds require 1gm of protein per kilogram of bodyweight. After the healing process, 1/2gm per kilogram bodyweight is appropriate to maintain healthy muscle mass and a strong immune system.
Also, eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to keep that post-surgical shape. A nutritionist may be worth the money to protect your plastic surgery investment.
- How Often Do You Exercise?
Obviously you don’t want to crank out an hour on the elliptical immediately following surgery. But once you get the okay from your surgeon, you’ll want to either return to or start a regular exercise regimen three to four times per week.
You may want to work with a personal trainer who is familiar with your situation and is aware of the most effective exercises. For instance, someone who understands what would be the best core exercise after abdominoplasty to help keep the abdomen flat after diastasis repair.
He or she can also help you to find the perfect balance between cardio and strength training to keep you feeling more energized rather than burnt out.
- What Do You Do to Protect Your Skin?
No matter your procedure, it’s important to take care of your skin. So keep your exposure to the sun at a minimum by using sunblock (an SPF of at least 50 – even in the winter) and wearing the appropriate clothing to protect against harmful UV rays.
In addition, use moisturizers containing hyaluronic acid moisturizers after any face procedures. ALLASTIN Trihex Technology is a solid recommendation.
- Do You Smoke?
No matter how much you may love smoking tobacco, the negative effects on the body and skin can’t be denied. It can actually slow your body’s healing process as well.
So whatever plastic surgery procedure you’ve chosen, be sure to avoid tobacco while you recover in order to heal properly. Then after that, make the effort to quit altogether. Not smoking will ensure your plastic surgery results will last even longer.
- How Much Water Do You Drink?
Post-plastic surgery care includes adequate hydration. As water is essential to replenish fluids lost during surgery, you’ll want to drink plenty of it. And then make it a regular part of your life to keep your body operating at its optimal capacity.
- Do You Get Enough Sleep?
Yeah, we know. Getting enough sleep is a tough one. But given its tremendous healing powers, it’s crucial you’re making the effort to get the right amount each night.
Maintaining Plastic Surgery Post-Op Results Medically
While diet, exercise, and healthy lifestyle choices are key in maintaining your post surgical results, it’s impossible to stop the aging process or to rewire your genetics. So you may want to consider nonsurgical touch-up procedures to help enhance and extend your results.
For example, touch up liposuction after a tummy tuck can further improve the thick abdominal flap. Fillers, laser, PRP, and fat can be used to support the 3D improvement after a face lift. Your surgeon may even recommend botox to weaken forehead muscles after a brow lift.
Another factor to consider post surgery is capsular contracture. So in the case of breast augmentation, you’ll want to use prophylactic antibiotics with all dental cleanings and procedures and remain hyper vigilant of all possible infections that may also instigate a capsular contracture.
Your board-certified plastic surgeon will supply you with a comprehensive packet of post-operative instructions. Following these will ensure the healthiest recovery. And don’t hesitate to ask him or her specific questions about your recovery process.
Are You Considering Plastic Surgery?
Plastic surgery is sound investment. Especially when you go the distance in maintaining plastic surgery post-op results.
So if you’re considering improving your life with a plastic surgery procedure, then contact us today. We’ll be happy to sit down with you to discuss all of your many options.
The Battle of Silicone Vs. Saline Implants
Are you considering breast augmentation to achieve a more youthful appearance and increase confidence?
If so, you’ve got a choice to make.
It’s actually fallacious to say “battle” when it comes to the question of silicone vs. saline implants. One is not looking to beat out the other.
Both options are safe and viable; with each having its advantages. This isn’t to say there aren’t some differences though.
The Basics of Silicone Vs. Saline Implants
Both silicone and saline implants are made from silicone.
The main difference is silicone implants are made fully of silicone and filled with a silicon gel, while saline implants have an outer shell that’s constructed of silicone and then later filled with saline.
Some people believe that silicone implants look and feel more natural. Plus, they come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and degrees of firmness so you know exactly what will be implanted.
Meanwhile, saline implants are inserted when empty and then filled with a sterile saline solution once in place. Some patients prefer the idea of saline solution versus silicone gel in their bodies.
Yet, silicone gel more closely simulates breast tissue. So saline implants may end up feeling firmer than natural breast tissue.
So Which Is Right For You?
We’ll dig a little deeper to look at the advantages and drawbacks of each option.
Silicone
If you have minimal natural breast tissue, your plastic surgeon may suggest silicone implants. Silicone gel is not only lighter than saline, but it’s also more viscous. Current silicone implants closely mimic the feel of real breast so that even those with thin breast tissue can achieve a more natural look.
This doesn’t mean if you have ample breast tissue that silicone isn’t the best choice for you though. If your primary focus is on a more natural appearance and the ability to choose the shape, then silicone is a great choice.
It is advised that no one under the age of 22 get a silicone implant. While it’s legal, the FDA only approves silicone implants for over the age of 22.
Monitoring for possible silicone implant rupture is done with an MRI.
Saline
Saline implants, on the other hand, don’t come with such a recommendation. If there is a rupture, it is saline (saltwater) that leaks into the body so it’s not a safety issue. Plus, a saline rupture causes a completely visible deflation of the breast volume and the diagnosis is easily made in a physical exam.
Furthermore, saline implants are FDA-approved for those over the age of 18.
As we mentioned above, silicone is often the better choice for those with minimal breast tissue. Thus, saline could be the better option if you have more ample natural breast tissue and would prefer to avoid getting silicone gel.
In addition, if you’re on a tighter budget, then you may want to consider saline for that reason. They typically run a few hundred dollars less than silicone. Of course, you’ll want to go in with the whole picture before making price the determining factor.
Discuss Your Options
If you’re ready to enjoy all of the benefits of breast augmentation, then contact us today to help you answer the question of silicone vs. saline implants.
Our board-certified plastic surgeons will thoroughly discuss your needs and desires, and then consult with you on the absolute best option for your unique situation.
