What Are the Best Plastic Surgery Combinations?
Plastic surgery combinations, i.e. getting two procedures done at once, might seem like a lot to take on. But actually, they’re more common than you may realize.
It’s not a matter of you picking and choosing procedures from a menu. The combination procedures are chosen carefully by your surgeon based on your objectives, goals, and health.
And there is a definite upside to having multiple surgeries performed simultaneously.
Benefits of Multiple Surgeries
Patients save time and money by only being put under anesthesia once. As with all surgery, there is some risk with anesthesia. By having two procedures accomplished during one round of anesthesia, patients reduce the number of times they have to be anesthetized. Furthermore, they save money.
In addition, the recovery times for each procedure are done under one umbrella. That means that patients only have to take off one period of time for work and activities rather than two.
Finally, in having two surgeries done at once, patients usually experience more dramatic results in a shorter amount of time.
The Best Plastic Surgery Combinations
There are occasions when procedures must be combined. One such occasion is when a patient opts for breast augmentation with fat transfer. In this case, the patient has to undergo liposuction in order to harvest the fat which will then be applied during the augmentation surgery.
For the most part though, combining plastic surgeries is more a matter of getting the best and most complete results with minimum invasiveness.
- The Mommy Makeover
The mommy makeover is the ultimate in combining plastic surgery procedures. There’s no one-size-fits-all though. Depending on what each patient wants or needs, there are many variations.
Generally speaking though, a mommy makeover typically includes breast augmentation for women who lost breast volume during childbirth, with a possible lift if they find their breasts sag a bit after breastfeeding. These multiple surgeries for the breast are also common among older women, regardless of their motherhood status.
In addition, if there is post-pregnancy abdominal flab that won’t go away with diet and exercise, the surgeon may also recommend a tummy tuck. On occasion, there may even be need for some vaginal rejuvenation work. Again, it depends on each individual.
- Surgeries for Contouring
In many cases, diet- and exercise-resistant fat forms in the body as we age. Especially in the abdomen. So in this case, a plastic surgeon will often combine a tummy tuck with liposuction.
The tummy tuck helps to give the waistline a sleeker and more contoured appearance, while the liposuction serves to vacuum out some of that resistant fat. When done in tandem, these two procedures deliver a smooth and attractive waistline.
- Firming up the Face
When patients are obsessed with an imperfection on the face, they typically have one specific procedure in mind. But facial surgery is complicated.
For example, someone who is troubled by a crooked nose may insist the only thing they need is rhinoplasty (i.e. nose job). But there are many occasions where once the shape of the nose changes, it brings the rest of the face out of harmony. So in these cases, the surgeon may need to add a chin augmentation or other procedure to keep the face in proportion.
This is just one example. In the realm of facial surgery, there are countless combinations such as facelift/eye lift, facelift/fat transfers, face lift/neck lift, brow lift/facelift, and eye lift with dermal fillers. It takes the work of a skilled surgeon to maintain proper facial proportion.
Curious About Combining Procedures?
When we refer to the best plastic surgery combinations, we’re really looking at the most common ones. In reality, the possibilities for combinations are nearly endless.
So if you’re curious about the benefits of multiple surgeries, contact us today. During your free consultation, your surgeon will determine whether you’re a good candidate and which procedures will serve you best.
Then get ready to put your best self forward.
The Ultimate Breast Implants Checklist
Summer’s almost here. It’s that time of year when you start showing more skin and seeing just how your body has changed over the winter. And with the pandemic, you might be noticing the impact of a couple of winters.
If you’re feeling self-conscious about filling out your bathing suit or other summer wear, this may be the year for breast augmentation surgery.
Breast implants could boost your confidence this summer. But what will be expected of you before and after the surgery? To address that, we’ve got the most complete breast implants checklist here for you.
BEFORE Pre-Surgery
Once you finally make an appointment to talk with a plastic surgeon, he or she will provide you with literature on the procedure. This can be a lot of information to absorb. There will also be an FDA-approved patient-decision checklist. The purpose of this list is to present the benefits and risks of getting implants.
The checklist covers topics such as what makes a successful breast implant candidate; situations when implants shouldn’t be used, the risks of undergoing the surgery; the importance of proper training and experience; and other options (where appropriate).
The patient-decision checklist is reviewed together by you and your surgeon.
Breast Implant Checklists
Once everything is agreed upon and you’ve decided to go ahead with the surgery, you’ll be given an opportunity to sign and initial throughout the patient-decision checklist. The checklist is then signed by your board-certified surgeon.
At that point, you’ll need to start tackling the next checklist – which is things you’ll need to do before the procedure.
Pre-Surgery
If you love a good smoke first thing in the morning or after a meal, you’ll need to get used to not having this. It’s crucial that you quit smoking a minimum of four weeks pre-op.
Also, get your work and other life affairs in order. You’ll need at least one week off from your job. Stock up on essential items and foods that are simple to make. (Soup comes to mind.) And be sure to get all of your prescriptions filled so you’ll have them after the surgery.
On the actual day of the surgery, you’ll need to wear loose clothing with a top that zips or buttons in the front. Don’t eat anything or take vitamins/medications unless instructed by the doctor. Refrain from wearing creams, lotions, or fragrances, or using hairspray on surgery day.
Finally, arrange to have a family member or friend drive you home after the surgery.
Post-Surgery
Once you arrive home, it’ll be important that you get plenty of rest to help the body heal. Keep your head and neck elevated using firm but comfortable pillows.
If you live alone, plan to have someone around who can help for at LEAST that first day back. You’ll have to avoid lifting, bending, or any sort of vigorous movement until the surgeon says it’s clear to do so.
Got hydration? If you don’t like water, now is the time to start embracing its benefits because you’ll need to drink at least eight ounces of water every two hours that first day back. Also, take your pain meds as prescribed, wear the recommended compression garments, and have ice packs ready to help with any swelling.
And be sure you have quick access to your surgeon’s contact info in case you experience any complications or just have questions.
Boost Your Confidence with Breast Implants
Now that you’ve gone over the ultimate breast implants checklist, you know exactly what to expect. So why not contact us today?
And get ready for an amazing and form-fitting summer!
Facial Fillers Versus a Facelift
There comes a time in every person’s life when, as much as you might still feel like you’re in your 20s, your face tells a different story.
While you may not achieve that youthful look of your 20s again, you needn’t be resigned to the visual ravages of aging. So if you’re considering taking action, you may be wondering what your options are.
It comes down to facial fillers versus a facelift. Each of these procedures has its benefits and which one you choose will depend on your specific situation.
Best Candidates for Dermal Fillers
In terms of facial rejuvenation, dermal fillers (or injectables) are becoming more and more popular. Especially because they don’t require going under the knife.
Even so, fillers have their limits. They are not effective for the finely etched-in lines that occur with more advanced age.
For younger patients who are in the early stages of wrinkles or collagen loss though, fillers are the less extreme option. They are minimally invasive and can effectively restore lost volume. Restoring volume can also help to eliminate wrinkles and drooping skin. Along with filling in newer wrinkles, fillers can also augment thin cheeks and fill hollow temples.
Another plus is that there is virtually no downtime – although they do require multiple visits for maintenance. But they’re a great way to refresh for a more youthful appearance.
Types of Dermal Injectables
Dermal injectables fall into two categories. The first are neurodilators such as Botox or other similar neurotoxins that work by “freezing” overactive muscles in the face to treat dynamic wrinkles. Then there are dermal fillers such as Teoxane and Juvederm products which are hyaluronic acid fillers that address static wrinkles such as nasolabial folds (i.e. laugh lines) and the marionette line folds that develop between the corners of the mouth and continue down to the jaw line.
Both types of injectables can help stave off the need for facial surgery in younger patients. For older patients, they can also enhance the results of a facelift.
Speaking of which…
Benefits of a Facelift
Though fillers do a terrific job of replacing fat in the lips or cheeks, only a facelift can actually remove excess skin around the jowls and then tighten the skin. This can render a remarkable difference in your appearance.
Facelifts are more effective than fillers in treating severe signs of aging. Through repositioning the facial fat pads, this procedure improves facial volume and contours. And when working with a skilled board-certified plastic surgeon, you can be sure that any incisions will be carefully hidden for a more natural-looking appearance.
Best Candidates for a Facelift
For patients with deep wrinkles, or excess or sagging skin, a facelift is a better option to address these problems for the long-term.
Unlike fillers though, a facelift is a surgical procedure. Therefore, it will require downtime for recovery. The best candidates for this procedure should also be in overall good health, still have some skin elasticity, not smoke, and (perhaps most importantly) have realistic expectations.
Facial Fillers Versus a Facelift – Which One is Right For You?
You don’t have to face the question of facial fillers versus a facelift on your own.
If you’re considering which is the better option for you, then contact us today for a free consultation. Our qualified and trained professionals will point you in the right direction.
And soon enough, looking in the mirror will bring a smile to your more youthful face.
Surgical Ways To Remove A Double Chin
Do you remember a day when you had a streamlined profile while looking in the mirror? Of course, it’s possible that you’ve never had that particular brand of luck.
In fact, many of us deal with excess fat on the neck or chin that results in a double chin. Also known as submental fullness, it can be the result of weight loss, aging, or just good old genetics.
Fortunately, there are surgical ways to remove a double chin and feel more confident about your appearance.
Surgical Ways To Remove A Double Chin
Getting rid of excess fat or skin around the neck can be achieved in a number of ways. Depending on your goals, a board-certified plastic surgeon may use one or more of the following procedures:
- Chin Liposuction
For folks with more elastic skin (often those in the 20-50 year age range), the surgeon may opt for just chin liposuction.
With chin liposuction, the surgeon inserts a cannula, or small tube, into different areas of the chin. Gentle suction removes small amounts of fat from each location which leaves the skin looking smoother.
Although this procedure removes excess fat, it doesn’t improve skin quality.
- Submentoplasty and/or Lower Rhytidectomy
Submentoplasty is just the medical field’s fancy term for a chin tuck while a lower rhytidectomy is more commonly known as a neck lift.
A chin tuck focuses solely on tightening the skin and removing extra fat from the chin and upper neck. A neck lift is more extensive than a chin tuck in that it tightens the muscles.
Chin Tuck and Neck Lift Surgery Procedures
As explained above, chin liposuction is fairly straightforward. A chin tuck or neck lift are more extensive, however, and involve making incisions.
First, your doctor marks the chin and neck to indicate the areas where he or she will work. Then either IV medications are administered or you may have to undergo general anesthesia.
The area is cleaned with an antiseptic solution. For those not under general anesthesia, a local anesthetic may be injected under the skin.
Incisions are generally made at the hairline and around and behind the ear to avoid conspicuous scars. Excess fat and skin are removed from the neck.
In the case of a chin tuck, there will be fewer incisions and excess skin isn’t removed. Instead, the platysma (neck muscle) is tightened to give the skin a more sculpted and toned appearance.
In both cases, incisions are closed with glue or sutures.
Recovery
As with all surgical procedures, swelling and discomfort following the procedure are common. The skin on the neck and chin may show bruising and swelling and might feel very tight. Your surgeon may recommend an antibiotic ointment.
You’ll need to avoid the sun, as well as getting excess amounts of water on the face or chin for a few days.
Overall recovery time will depend on the surgical procedure you have. Chin liposuction typically heals within a few days to a week. A neck lift will be more like 7-10 days.
Eager to Say Goodbye to Your Double Chin?
With a number of surgical ways to remove a double chin available, you could be bidding that double chin farewell in the near future.
So contact us today to get started.
Our experienced team will sit down with you during your free consultation and discuss which option(s) will be best for you.
How To Prepare For Your Facelift
Have you recently made the decision to get a facelift? Great! Rejuvenating your facial appearance is sure to boost your confidence and self-esteem.
There are some things you’ll need to know to prepare for your facelift though.
The absolute first step is to find a board-certified plastic surgeon who has the expertise to do the procedure to your satisfaction. Once you’ve chosen your surgeon, you can expect the following:
An Initial Consultation
Of course, having a board-certified plastic surgeon with whom your comfortable is essential. But you’ll want to be just as comfortable with the procedure you’re about to have. This is the point of the consultation.
It’s during this meeting that you and your surgeon will review your health history, current medical conditions, and any medications you may be taking. He or she will also listen to your expectations and inform you of whether they’re realistic.
You’ll have a chance to see before-and-after photos of patients who have had the procedure. Then the surgeon will tell you about treatment options, risk of complications/side effects, and what to expect from the procedure. Once it is clear that you’re a good candidate for a facelift, he or she will be clear about the cost, outcomes, anesthesia, risks, recovery and aftercare.
Prepping For The Actual Surgery
Once the consultation is complete, you’ll need to do some prep work. This includes quitting smoking at least six weeks prior to the procedure. Smoking not only increases the risk of complications, but it can also result in less than ideal results.
It’s also important during this time to get into the habit of drinking a lot of water. You want to be as hydrated as possible when the day arrives to ensure faster and more effective recovery. You’ll also need to go into your surgery without having eaten anything since the night before.
If you regularly take aspirin, NSAIDs (like Advil), or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, there will be a point when your surgeon will tell you to stop taking them.
Finally, make your home environment as comfortable as possible so that when you return from the surgery, you’ll be able to relax and heal. You’ll also want to plan to have someone drive you home and stay with your for at least 24 hours after the surgery. In addition, find someone who can perform household duties for the week following surgery so you can focus on healing.
The Morning Of The Surgery
Plan to wear a top that’s easy to get on and off – such as a zip-up hoodie. You’ll want to avoid pulling anything over your head and impacting the treatment area.
Your surgeon will give you an estimate of how long the procedure will take, but it’s typically a few hours. An anesthesiologist will be in the room throughout your surgery and constantly monitoring your vitals. When your facelift is complete, you’ll spend some time in the recovery room until you’re stable and cleared to go home.
And that’s it!
Prepare For Your Facelift
Now that you’ve made the mental commitment to this amazing procedure, it’s time to contact us for your free consultation.
With a highly experienced staff of board-certified plastic surgeons, aestheticians, and skin care specialists, we’ll go above and beyond to help you prepare for your facelift.
And you could be looking at a brighter and happier reflection in a just a few months!
Correcting Plastic Surgery Procedures
The world at large is fascinated with plastic surgery and the results it renders. And given the large number of reality TV dealing with botched or excessive jobs, it would seem that it’s a major problem.
It isn’t. The vast majority of plastic surgery procedures go as planned and the patients are satisfied. However, there will always be exceptions.
There are occasions where correcting plastic surgery procedures is required. So if you’ve had a procedure and aren’t satisfied with the results, then it may be time to consider this route.
The Extra Challenge of Correcting Plastic Surgery Procedures
Remember that you won’t see stunning results right away. The healing process can take days or weeks following your procedure. Hopefully you discussed with your surgeon what to realistically expect and how long it should take.
That said, if you’re still not satisfied after you’ve healed, then you’ll need to start the process of seeking corrective surgery. And it’s important to understand the unique challenges that go with correcting plastic surgery procedures.
Because there is existing scar tissue, the degree of difficulty is greatly increased for the surgeon. There may also be a lack of material with which to work. For example, if there is no longer cartilage or other tissue in the original area, it may need to be sourced from another part of the body.
In addition, you may already be feeling emotional and even afraid to undergo another procedure. And if what you need is large in scale and detailed, you may need several procedures. When this is the case, you need to be aware that the situation could get worse before it gets better.
Should You Use the Same Surgeon?
Try not to be too quick to rule out your original surgeon out of frustration. Even the greatest and most skilled plastic surgeon can run into unforeseen complications. Unless you have a terrible relationship with your current surgeon, there are advantages to using him or her to do the corrective procedure. This is because your surgeon will have familiarity with the outcome you desired and with the specific way you heal.
If, however, you’ve lost confidence with your surgeon, discovered (too late) that he or she is a fraud, or your relationship with them has gone south, then you’ll want to consult with another who actually specializes in corrective surgery. Any surgeon you pick should be board-certified in plastic surgery and have extensive training and experience in reconstructive surgery.
And keep in mind that, in order to minimize risk, you’ll have to wait at least one year before having surgery in the same area.
Are You Curious About Plastic Surgery?
As we mentioned above, the need for correcting plastic surgery procedures is minimal.
So if you’re interested in plastic surgery for either cosmetic or reconstructive (or both!) purposes, don’t hesitate to contact us today for your free consultation.
You’ll sit down with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons to discuss all of the options available to you and what you can expect in the long-term.
Regenerative Medicine in Plastic Surgery
If you know anything about regenerative medicine, then you may be curious about the role of regenerative medicine in plastic surgery.
Then again, maybe you’re not familiar with regenerative medicine and it sounds like some sort of idea stirred up by a science fiction author. It’s not.
In fact, regenerative medicine has been a godsend for folks who’ve lost tissue because of cancer, burns, or other trauma where reconstructive plastic surgery options are limited. This is why plastic surgeons have been instrumental in developing new therapies in regenerative medicine.
So What Is Regenerative Medicine?
The field of regenerative medicine is based on the concept that doctors can turn to the body’s own powers to heal itself rather than solely relying on drugs or invasive surgical procedures. The thought is that by replacing, engineering, and regenerating human cells, tissues, or even organs, normal form and function can once again be achieved.
This is not to say that there is no use for drugs and surgical procedures though. In fact, along with cells, tissues, and organs, regenerative medicine utilizes drugs, synthetic biomaterials, and devices.
In a nut shell, the goal of regenerative medicine is to both heal damaged tissue, and form new tissue.
Regenerative Medicine in Plastic Surgery
Patients who have suffered with the aforementioned cancer and burns are not the only ones to benefit from regenerative medicine. Researchers and plastic surgeons are currently developing regenerative medicine-based treatments for those with congenital anomalies of the face and hands (including microtia, cleft lip, and cleft palate), facial nerve injuries, limb and muscle loss, and injuries to major nerves in the arms and legs.
The following are some of the ways that plastic surgeons are incorporating regenerative medicine therapies:
Burn Care
With severe burns where the dermal (innermost) layer of skin is damaged, plastic surgeons are now able to use protein scaffolds to generate new tissue there.
Tissue Expansion to Generate New Skin
Plastic surgeons also pioneered a technique whereby they are able to implant balloon devices that are gradually expanded to generate new skin tissue to cover a deformity. This therapy has been revolutionary in breast reconstruction as well as for treating birth anomalies.
Wound Care
Reconstructive plastic surgery alone may not be enough to repair complex wounds that are difficult to heal. In these cases, there’s a need for tissue engineering – i.e. skin substitutes made from living cells grown in a lab – to aid in the healing.
Additionally, it was a plastic surgeon who was the first to bring negative pressure devices into the arena of wound care. These regenerative medical devices employ micro-mechanical forces to stimulate and further wound healing.
Treating Scars
Laser and intense pulsed light are just two of the energy-based devices from the field of regenerative medicine. And they’re increasingly gaining in popularity with plastic surgeons and their patients to improve the healing of scars.
Breast Reconstruction
Women who have survived breast cancer through a mastectomy are faced with the decision of whether they want to have breast reconstruction. Today, plastic surgeons can use decellularized tissue scaffolds to generate new tissue over breast implants to achieve a better outcome.
Bone Regeneration
At one time, patients suffering extensive trauma that involved the loss of large bone segments had to cut their losses. But now, through regenerative medical therapies, plastic surgeons can take advantage of calcium-based scaffolds and biomaterials derived from bone to form new bone tissue for these patients.
Regeneration of Nerves
When is comes to regenerating nerves, this is where the field of regenerative medicine feels decidedly like something out of science fiction. But plastic surgeons are finding new ways every day to restore optimal function to patients who have experienced nerve injury.
Therapies in this area include using specialized growth factors to accelerate nerve healing, and specific biomaterials that actually guide and direct the growth of new nerve fibers.
It’s really quite amazing.
Could Plastic Surgery Help You?
Plastic surgery is no longer about just improving a nose that’s too big or breasts that are too small. Although these are completely valid surgeries, it’s clear that there’s a need for regenerative medicine in plastic surgery too.
So if you’re struggling with an aesthetic or functional flaw that you feel could be repaired though plastic surgery, contact us today. During your free consultation, your plastic surgeon will clearly lay out your options so you know exactly what to expect.
All About the Chemical Peels
Sick and tired of fine lines and wrinkles? How about age spots, mild scars, or dark patches?
Chemical peels are an amazing way to significantly reduce the appearance of all of these. And they can be performed on the face, neck, or hands.
They’re a great nonsurgical alternative for improving your complexion and restoring confidence in your appearance.
What Chemical Peels Address
Life is tough on the skin.
Sun damage and aging create wrinkles. Squinting and smiling result in fine lines under the eyes and around the mouth. Acne is unsightly and can leave scars. Even pregnancy and birth control pills can wreak havoc on the skin. Chemical peels can address all of these conditions and more.
It is important to understand that they can’t take care of every one of your skin maladies though. Sagging and bulging skin or deep wrinkles generally don’t respond well to chemical peels. In these instances, your board-certified surgeon would likely recommend a procedure such as an SMAS facelift, brow lift, eyelid lift, dermal filler, or laser resurfacing.
The Chemical Peel Procedure
The procedure isn’t terribly complicated. First, your eyes and hair will be covered with protection so that your skin can be thoroughly cleansed with an agent to remove excess oils. Then, a chemical solution is applied to your skin. At this point, you may feel a warm to somewhat hot sensation followed by a stinging sensation. If the stinging is problematic, a cool compress may be applied to your skin. The chemical is then washed off and removed.
Chemical peels are not a one-size-fits-all affair though.
The light or “lunchtime” chemical peel is usually done in a series and it’s best for those with fine wrinkling, uneven skin coloring, or rough sun-damaged skin. Only the outermost layer of skin is removed and recovery requires little to no downtime.
With a medium chemical peel, both the outermost layer and the upper part of the middle skin layer are removed. This is a good option for those with more moderate wrinkles, age spots, acne scarring, or uneven skin coloring that’s more pronounced.
And a deep chemical peel provides the most dramatic results. In this case, the chemical penetrates all the way down to the lower middle layer of the skin. This is most often recommended for those with moderate lines and wrinkles, extensive sun-damaged skin, deep acne scars, blotchy skin, and actinic keratosis. When done on the face, it’s a one-time treatment that requires pretreatment for up to eight weeks.
There’s also a new option on the market – the VI chemical peel.
The New VI Chemical Peel
Fair-skinned and light-haired patients have long been better candidates for chemical peels. But with the newest chemical peel known as the VI Peel, this is no longer the case. The VI Peel is one of the safest chemical peels on the market and is ideal for a wide range of skin types. It can dramatically improve the skin’s texture and tone, leaving it with a clear and radiant glow.
Using a unique blend of minerals, salicylic acid, vitamin C, phenol, retinoic acid, and TCA, the VI Peel works to safely remove damaged layers of skin and promote cellular growth. At the most basic level, this blend will help the skin to build collagen and elastin; tightening the skin, shrinking enlarged pores, and erasing fine lines and wrinkles.
The VI Peel also provides stunning results to those struggling with dull or damaged skin as a result of acne, rosacea, sun damage, or melasma and other hyperpigmentation issues.
It requires no oral or IV sedation and is nearly painless. Plus, for those with darker skin types, it requires no skin preconditioning. And given that this blend is packed with vitamins and minerals, the VI Peel is more nourishing than a traditional chemical peel.
Curious About Chemical Peels?
If you think one of the variety of available chemical peels might be right for you, then contact us today.
During your free consultation, you’ll meet with a plastic surgeon who will guide you in making the proper choice that will fit your needs. And should you require something more than a chemical peel, he or she will inform you of next best steps.
Advantages of Plastic Surgery in the Winter
Are you sick of the cold weather and have a constant eye out for the spring?
Whether you hate, love, or merely tolerate the cold, there is something to be said about opting to have plastic surgery in the winter.
In fact, once you consider the many advantages, you may start wishing for winter.
1. Appointments Are Easier to Schedule
If you’ve ever tried to schedule plastic surgery in the spring or summer when folks are noticing their imperfections, then you know how tough it can be to get in.
But in the winter, it’s much easier to schedule a procedure. With all of the bulky clothes and layers to conceal those trouble spots, there’s just not the urgency to schedule. And if you’re planning a multiple procedure surgery such as a mommy makeover, you’ll want flexible scheduling.
2. Keep It Covered
Speaking of coats and sweaters, they’re also the perfect foil for concealing the early scarring, swelling, and bruising that follows a procedure.
Warm winter clothes are also ideal for hiding compression garments. Furthermore, the cold air makes having to wear compression garments much more comfortable than when the temperatures are high.
3. Stay Cozy While Recovering
Most of us want to eat up as much outdoor activity as possible during the summer. But when winter comes, we have the perfect excuse for snuggling under blankets, flipping on the TV, and staying in by the fire.
Plus, depending on the procedure, you’ll be required to spend between 4-8 weeks avoiding strenuous activities. So while you’re getting cozy on the couch, you can start dreaming about returning to those activities when the spring finally does come.
At the end of the day, with a winter plastic surgery procedure, you’ll be more motivated to rest and recover because there’s little motivation to venture out.
4. Avoiding the Sun Is Easy
Near the top of the list of things to avoid after plastic surgery is sun exposure. The UV rays can negatively impact the incision’s ability to heal.
Avoiding direct sun exposure is a challenge in the spring and summer months. But in the winter, it’s far from difficult. Especially if you live in a climate where clouds overrule the sun during the winter months.
And when you do have to be exposed to the sun, mostly on your face, it’s much easier to apply sunscreen to one small area of the body rather than everywhere.
Even laser procedures such as Halo or hair removal are most commonly done during the winter because you cannot be exposed to sunlight due to the sensitivity of the skin.
Take Advantage of Plastic Surgery in the Winter
By getting plastic surgery in the winter, when it does finally come time to pull out the shorts, t-shirts, and bathing suits, you’ll have already done the work to look your best.
Meanwhile, everyone who waited until late spring and early summer to get their procedures will have to wait until next summer to showcase their amazing results.
So don’t hesitate to contact us. Today. And show off your best self THIS summer!
All About the Arm Lift
Sagging skin under the arms can be embarrassing. It can also be terribly discouraging if you’re going to great lengths to remove it through diet and exercise and getting no results.
Ironically, rapid weight loss can be a cause of sagging skin on the arms. But it can also be a result of aging or genetics. It could be a combination of factors.
Whatever the case, a brachioplasty (a.k.a. arm lift) can treat those saggy underarms to leave them looking more toned and defined.
Who Would Benefit From Brachioplasty?
Of course, experiencing a hit to your self-esteem because of sagging arms is reason enough to seek out an arm lift. And it’s not an unusual procedure following weight-loss surgery.
But even if you don’t find the extra folds of tissue particularly troubling from the aesthetics perspective, you may want relief from the general discomfort. Then there’s the issue of maintaining hygiene, which is more challenging.
Finally, inflammation and rash associated with the extra folds of tissue can lead to infection. At this point, brachioplasty becomes a necessity.
Arm Lift Options
Fortunately, there are numerous options available when it comes to arm lifts.
A traditional arm lift is usually recommended for those with a large amount of excess skin and fat on the upper arm. An extended arm lift addresses fatty tissue and loose skin underneath the arm and on areas on the side of the body.
Finally, a limited-incision brachioplasty (also known as a hidden arm lift) may be recommended for those with moderate amounts of fat and loose skin. It utilizes an incision made in the crease of the underarm and may include liposuction.
In cases where there is only a small amount of fat, little to no excess skin, and good elasticity in the skin, the arm may be reshaped using liposuction only.
The Procedure
Given the variety of arm lifts, you’ll discuss which is best for you with your board-certified plastic surgeon.
Depending on the chosen procedure, you’ll receive either a general or local anesthesia. The surgeon will then make the appropriate incision depending on the chosen procedure and remove extra skin and fat from the desired area.
The surgeon then reconnects the skin to provide a smooth contour. In some cases, additional body-contouring surgeries may be performed at this time as well.
Recovery
During recovery, it may be necessary to wear a compression garment to control swelling.
Patients are provided with postoperative care instructions that include attending to the incision, which medications to take and when, and potential warning signs. There will also be a timeline for follow-up appointments.
Most patients are able to return to work or school within a week or two, and can return to normal activities within 2-4 weeks.
Tighten and Tone Those Arms
Of course, maintaining proper diet and exercise is key to maintaining good health. But sometimes it just isn’t enough for certain problem spots.
So if you’re struggling with extra skin and fat on your arms no matter how hard you try, then an arm lift could be right for you.
It’s important to add that Emsculpt can also be performed to improve the muscular contour and reduce the fat layer when a patient has a tight skin envelope. This effective and non-invasive improvement to the upper arms requires no downtime and no anesthesia.
So contact us today for a free consultation. And show off those arms this summer!
