What Are The Most Popular Places For Fat Transfer?
If you consider ‘fat’ the worst of the F words, you may want to reconsider. More and more plastic surgery patients are discovering the wonders of fat transfer.
With fat transfer, also known as fat grafting, liposuction is performed on a body part where there may be excess fat. Viable cells from that fat are then harvested and reinjected into various parts of the body where the patient is seeking more volume.
As surgeons continue to advance this procedure, the number of popular places for fat transfer on the body are increasing.
Popular Places For Fat Transfer
It seems a growing number of patients are embracing this new age of reusing and recycling. So it makes sense they’d see the logic in recycling their own tissues to reshape their bodies.
So where on the body are these procedures most common?
- Face
There’s no denying that fillers can do a fantastic job in smoothing out lines and rejuvenating the skin on the fat and there’s admittedly no surgery involved.
The main issue though is that fillers generally only last six to twelve months before they have to be restored. Fat transfer, however, allows patients to enhance the jawline and cheekbone while delivering results that can last several years.
- Hands
Who in the world would want to plump up their hands, you might wonder.
Then again, if you’ve ever glanced at your hands and wondered when they started looking like those of your parents (or grandparents!), then fat transfer to the hands isn’t such a mystery.
Just like every other part of the body, the hands lose volume over the years as the skin becomes thinner and wrinkled. Fat transfer brings back some of that volume to provide a plumper contour. Furthermore, it can decrease the appearance of protruding veins and improve veiny skin.
- Breasts
For patients who are not entirely comfortable with placing a foreign body (implant) into their chests, fat transfer to the breast could be an attractive option. Plus, they may have the added benefit of losing fat in an area where they don’t want it.
Fat transfer isn’t going to work for all breast augmentation though. It only works in specific cases. And even at that, it’s generally not going to increase breast size by much with just one injection. Repeated injections are required.
Where fat transfer to the breasts has the most successful applications is in patients who have smaller breasts, but who have lost cleavage definition due to decreasing volume at the top of the breast. They simply want a boost.
- Buttocks
Many of us struggle with the appearance of our butts. You may feel that yours is too big, too small, too misshapen, too flat, you name it. Most patients are seeking rounder, chiseled, and more defined glutes. Given this general dissatisfaction, the buttocks is probably the most popular place for a fat transfer.
Interestingly, it’s also one of the most complicated areas. It may seem like there are just two domes of fatty tissue back there, but the buttocks are loaded with blood vessels. So it’s crucial that patients enlist only plastic surgeons certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery with fat transfer experience.
- Arms and Abs
Fat transfer to the arms and abs is increasingly requested by men. They’re seeking to bulk and shape these areas to get a more muscular appearance.
In the case of the abs, this is known as abdominal etching. Fat is liposuctioned from the abdomen so as to highlight and define those “six-pack” muscle. It’s then reinjected to further accentuate those lines and plump the edges.
The results of ab etching often don’t last very long though. As such, many plastic surgeons don’t currently perform this procedure.
Want to Find out More About Fat Transfer?
If any of the above places for fat transfer are problem areas for you, contact us today.
During your free consultation, we’ll explore whether a fat transfer could be the perfect solution for you.
Is It Possible to Avoid Capsular Contracture?
You may not think about it this way, but the body is an amazingly efficient machine. Every system works together to keep it running optimally.
So when a foreign body (such as a breast implant) is introduced into the “machine,” the body’s systems jump into action to create a capsule of scar tissue around it to keep the body protected. Unfortunately, that capsule can tighten over time and create a painful condition known as capsular contracture.
If you’re prepping for breast implant surgery, you may be wondering if there are ways to avoid capsular contracture.
Work ONLY With a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
There are preoperative requirements such as avoiding drugs, foods, and supplements that thin the blood for two weeks before the surgery.
But the foundation of avoiding capsular contracture starts with all of the details that go into how the procedure is performed. So it’s important you insist on a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast implantation.
First, a qualified surgeon may choose to place the implant under the chest muscle (a procedure known as sub muscular implant placement) if that’s an option. He or she will also be cautious to minimally handle the implant before implementation to reduce risk of bacterial contamination.
Additionally, an experienced surgeon will guide you to the proper size of implant that will suit you best. For example, if you have naturally smaller breasts and are looking to increase the size, your doctor will need to determine the size that your breast tissue can adequately cover. In other words, too large an implant can lead to capsular contracture.
Finally, the type of implant is also an important consideration. Textured surface gel implants appear to reduce the risk of capsular contracture. As opposed to smooth implants, the body has a harder time forming thick scar tissue around it. Even so, textured implants aren’t ideal for everyone.
How Can YOU Prevent Capsular Contracture?
One of the very best things you can do to prevent capsular contracture after surgery is to perform a daily breast massage. Your board-certified plastic surgeon will likely recommend this and can verbally explain how to massage the region safely and/or provide instructional materials.
It’s important to understand that massage can help prevent the capsule from tightening, but there’s no guarantee that it will stop the process.
There are further actions you can take (or not take, as the case may be):
- Avoid Heavy Lifting or Repetitive Arm Motion
It takes around six weeks for the body to form the capsule after breast implant surgery. So it’s crucial during that time that the tissues of the pectoralis muscle are protected from repetitive or intense motion. That means you’re off the hook for any heavy lifting (over 20 pounds) or activities such as vacuuming or raking.
- Steer Clear of High Impact Activities
You may be happy to get out of housework or yard work for six weeks. But if you’re a fitness enthusiast, you may not feel so excited. Especially if you love playing tennis or golf, running, or doing any other exercise that requires jumping or swinging of the arms. You’ll need to find something lower key during that time.
- Request An Antibiotic Prophylaxis During Dental Visits
This may sound odd, but when you get your teeth cleaned, the scraping can potentially force bacteria into the tiny blood vessels of the gums and then into the blood stream. Presence of bacteria in the blood stream can cause the body to go into defense mode similar to that from after your surgery and lead to capsular contracture. So let your dentist know that you’ve had implant surgery.
Ultimately, if you can work it out as such, it’s much better to schedule all of your dental work (including cavities, root canals, implants, etc.) prior to augmentation surgery.
Set Up Your Free Consultation
Are you considering breast implant surgery? Contact us today to set up a free consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons.
Entrusting your breast implant surgery to a highly skilled plastic surgeon is your first best move to avoid capsular contracture and get the results you desire.
Can You Remove Cellulite With Liposuction?
Can You Remove Cellulite With Liposuction?
Did you know that cellulite affects between 80% and 90% of adult women? And it’s often not the result of overeating or a lack of exercise.
Frequently referred to as ‘orange peel skin’ or ‘cottage cheese,’ cellulite does not discriminate. It can affect folks of all shapes and sizes.
While it may seem like you could just go on a diet, exercise vigorously and/or remove cellulite with liposuction, it’s not that simple. That’s because cellulite isn’t your regular garden variety fat.
What Is Cellulite?
While you’re likely to find cellulite on those who are already carrying excess fat, it shows up on people who are slim and fit as well. It’s more common after the age of 25, but can also affect teenagers.
Of course, eating a healthy diet and exercising are essential for feeling good and keeping the body in optimal condition. They do nothing to eliminate cellulite though. That’s because cellulite is essentially a form of fat that’s trapped in the sub dermal layer of the skin. One of the key ways it differs from regular fat is that the body is unable to process it as fuel.
Cellulite is the result of an interaction between the connective tissue in the layer below the surface of the skin, and the layer of fat beneath that. Strangely enough, women’s fat cells and connective tissues are arranged vertically so that when the fat cells protrude into the skin layer, it presents as cellulite. Men’s tissue has more of a criss-cross structure which seems to explain their lower risk of developing cellulite.
What Causes It?
There’s no one specific reason people, and especially women, develop cellulite. Some of it is just the genetic cards we’re all dealt. How fat is distributed beneath the skin, circulation, ethnicity, and rate of metabolism are all genetic factors.
Hormone are also likely players. Estrogen, insulin, noradrenaline, thyroid hormones, and prolactin are crucial in the production of cellulite.
Then, of course, there is aging and menopause. With less estrogen in the body, fat cells enlarge and blood flow to the connective tissues decreases. This less effective circulation results in lower collagen production. All of these factors join together to weaken the connective tissues, decrease elasticity in the skin, and increase the chance of cellulite developing.
Is It Possible to Remove Cellulite With Liposuction?
Not really.
Liposuction is great for getting rid of excess fat. During the procedure, fat cells are removed from the body to create a sleeker contour. The remaining cells, however, can push against the skin and threaten the structural integrity. Liposuction also doesn’t address the issue of those vertical connective tissues.
Many doctors and dermatologists may try topical treatments first to reduce the visibility of cellulite. Creams can tighten the skin to make it firmer and smoother, while adding moisture to reduce the appearance of cellulite. The effects typically don’t last long and the creams must be applied every day.
What is most effective is treatments that deliver laser energy beneath the surface of the skin. This thickens and strengthens the lower layers of skin to increase elasticity. Meanwhile, the thermal energy that’s developed releases the vertical bands so they don’t pull or pucker against the fat cells beneath.
The result?
Skin that lies smoother and flatter to eliminate dimpling. Voilà!
Are You At Battle With Cellulite?
Even if you can’t remove cellulite with liposuction, you CAN win the war against it with laser therapies.
Let’s get started.
Contact us today for your free consultation. And regain some of that smoother skin of your youth – just in time for summer.
Are You a Poor Candidate for Liposuction?
If you have diet- and exercise-resistant fat that just won’t go away, you may be considering liposuction. And why not? It’s a great solution.
Then again, it’s not ideal for everyone. (But what is?) There are a handful of reasons that a board-certified plastic surgeon might recommend avoiding this procedure.
If you’re now wondering whether YOU’RE a poor candidate for liposuction, we’ll look at four distinct reasons you may be steered in a different direction.
What Makes a Poor Candidate for Liposuction?
For a great many patients, liposuction is a godsend. And you may well be one of those people for whom this procedure would be seriously beneficial.
But you can expect any plastic surgeon worth his or her salt to address certain issues to first ensure that it’s a good option for you. If you have any of the following, liposuction may not be advised for you:
- Poor Skin Elasticity/History of Scarring
Let’s face it. The younger you are, the more elastic your skin is. Generally speaking. Since liposuction involves removing fat, the skin that was over that fat needs to spring back to deliver the contoured look. Otherwise, you’ll be left with loose skin that will make the area look deflated.
In addition, if you tend to develop raised scars (known as keloid scars) easily after an injury, you may be advised against liposuction. Especially if the incision site is in an obvious place. Patients who struggle with keloid scars are often genetically predisposed to them.
- Excess Fat
It might seem counterintuitive that you wouldn’t be able to get liposuction if you have a lot of excess fat. The reality is, there is such an increased risk of complications from high volume liposuctions, they’re not allowed in many states. This is based on studies of post-operative liposuction patients.
In fact, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons recommends the removal of no more than five liters of fat and fluid in a procedure. Thus, your plastic surgeon may ask you to get closer to your target weight before having liposuction.
- BMI That’s Too High or Low
There’s so much that your body mass index (BMI) doesn’t accurately tell a plastic surgeon. This is mostly because it doesn’t differentiate between muscle mass and body fat. Even so, it still does play a baseline diagnostic role in the surgeon’s decision to perform liposuction.
Similar to patients with excess fat, those with a high BMI are also likely to experience more complications. Because of this, the vast majority of surgeons won’t operate on patients with a BMI higher than 35, with some capping off at 30.
It’s not just those with a high BMI who are poor candidates for liposuction though. If you have an unusually low BMI, you may also be strongly discouraged from the procedure. This is because liposuction areas should have a pinch thickness of at least two centimeters to lessen the risk of leaving indentations or other regularities on the skin.
- Certain Underlying Conditions
If you’re considering liposuction but you have a medical condition such as diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, etc., you may not qualify for the procedure. Many medical conditions (and the medications that go along with them) can compromise healing from surgery. The surgeon will require medical clearance from your other doctors in these cases.
In addition, although it’s not a medical condition, you’ll need to disclose whether you’re a smoker or you use tobacco or other nicotine products. This is REALLY important because if you do, you’ll have a greater risk of delayed healing, scarring, necrosis, and infection. Therefore, you’ll need to quit tobacco/nicotine use at least one month before your procedure.
There Are Always Options
If you’re a poor candidate for liposuction right now, don’t despair. In some cases, you may be a good candidate in the future.
Even if you’re not though, there are a myriad of different plastic surgery avenues you and your surgeon can explore.
So contact us today to set up your free consultation. And take heart in knowing you’ll be under the absolute best care available.
Are There Different Kinds of Anesthesia Used in Plastic Surgery?
When you’re considering a plastic surgery procedure, it’s helpful to know what sort of anesthesia the doctor will administer so you can plan accordingly.
Then again, maybe you aren’t even aware that there are different kinds of anesthesia. Don’t worry! That’s not all that unusual.
So just in case you’re in the unknowing camp, we’ll educate you here.
Different Kinds of Anesthesia Used in Plastic Surgery
The type of anesthesia used for your procedure will depend on a number of factors. One is the length of the surgery. Another is the complexity of it. Your overall health is also a deciding factor.
In general, the plastic surgeon will make this decision. However, you may be asked for your input on preferences as well. Whatever the case, here’s a rundown of what you can possibly expect.
- General
General anesthesia is only used for major surgeries like breast augmentation or a tummy tuck where you would need to be completely unconscious and unable to experience pain. With general anesthesia, your brain doesn’t respond to pain signals or to reflexes so that you stay still during the surgery. General anesthesia has the greatest degree of risk – though it’s still minimal.
Within the category of general anesthesia there are two subcategories: intravenous and inhalation anesthetics.
Intravenous
Intravenous general anesthesia involves injection directly into your blood stream to depress the central nervous system. Your vital signs, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation are monitored very carefully throughout the procedure. Your level of consciousness is also watched to ensure you don’t begin to awaken during the procedure.
Inhalation
With inhalation general anesthesia, the anesthetizing compounds are carried to the blood and tissues through the lungs rather than via an injection. It should be noted that inhalation anesthetics are typically not used alone but rather in tandem with intravenous anesthetics – the combination of which is referred to as balanced anesthesia.
- Twilight
Twilight anesthesia comes with even fewer risks than general anesthesia. Also known as intravenous or conscious sedation, this form of moderate anesthesia is coupled with sedation to keep you calm and without pain during surgery.
But it also enables you to be slightly responsive during surgery so if the surgeon has questions, you’re able to answer them. And you won’t recall the procedure when it’s completed.
- Regional
Regional anesthesia is administered with an injection around a major nerve near the surgical site. It doesn’t cause any loss of consciousness, but it does block pain throughout the surgery and often during the initial part of recovery. Regional anesthesia is most often used for procedures on very sensitive parts of the body such as the hands.
- Local
Finally, if you’re having a minor procedure that doesn’t require extensive incisions, a local anesthetic is usually the first choice. Local anesthesia differs from regional in that it’s a much less complex injection that merely numbs the area with an agent such as lidocaine. In some cases, your board-certified surgeon may also recommend an oral sedative to keep you calm and relaxed during the procedure.
Are You Ready for Your Procedure?
Now that you’re aware of the different kinds of anesthesia used in plastic surgery, you have a better idea of what to expect.
So take the next step and contact us today to set up your free consultation.
Our board-certified surgeons will answer your questions, address any concerns, and make sure you’re fully informed so you can go into your procedure with complete peace of mind.
Are There Non-Surgical Fat Removal Options?
As much as we’re told to embrace imperfections in our bodies, stubborn fat that won’t go away no matter how much you diet and exercise can be discouraging. VERY.
Liposuction is one of the most popular and effective fat removal procedures. It’s highly effective and delivers outstanding results. It does have drawbacks though. First, it’s an invasive procedure that requires some recovery time. Plus, it can be a bit costly.
Meanwhile, there’s a group of non-surgical fat removal options now that don’t require surgery. Plus, the recovery time is minimal. We’ll take a look at how they work.
Non-Surgical Fat Removal Options
Around since the 1980s, liposuction is fairly straightforward. A board-certified plastic surgeon makes a small incision in the skin and sucks out excess fat cells using a small tube. He or she then sculpts a more sleek body contour.
But for those not eager to go deeply under the knife, there are procedures that zap unwanted fat cells topically. Here’s how:
1.Cold and Heat
Many of us are not too far from our ideal weight, but still struggle with small and localized fat spots on the abdomen, hips, and thighs. Some treatments utilize freezing to remove that unwanted fat. It may sound unpleasant, but it’s not.
A surgeon or other practitioner uses a special cryolipolysis device to cool fat cells to the point of death without affecting surrounding tissues. The dead fat cells are flushed from the body in the days and weeks that follow – with results noticed after about three months.
On the other end of the spectrum, certain non-invasive procedures employ heat to destroy fat cells. This process is known as apoptosis and it’s especially effective in targeting those love handles, as well as fat beneath the chin, and on the back, abdomen, and thighs.
Triple Wavelength Laser Technology
This procedure with the space-agey name is not as out there as it sounds. The use of triple wavelength laser technology is sometimes referred to as laser liposuction. And yes, there is a very tiny incision made to insert a small tube which removes excess liquid that can accumulate during the procedure.
Triple wavelength laser technology is effective for those who want to address sagging skin or fat around the muscles without going into surgery. This technology is a great alternative to liposuction in addressing fat deposits in the same problem areas including the back, thighs, upper arms, buttocks, abs, and flanks.
It’s also ideal for tackling unwanted fat in the face (around the jaw, chin, jowls, and neck) that traditional liposuction can’t effectively treat. Results from this treatment are immediate with minimal downtime.
Radiofrequency Technology
Finally, radiofrequency technology has been a godsend to the plastic surgery and dermatology industries. Radiofrequency energy is used to eliminate fat cells on the abdomen, thighs, hips, and buttocks.
An internal probe is used to deliver this energy to help melt fat while tightening the skin by strengthening the collagen bands beneath it. (Yes, that means there is a small incision made for the probe.) There is also an external applicator delivering energy to further tighten the skin.
Radiofrequency lipolysis is ideal for patients trying to get rid of loose skin along with small to moderate amounts of fat. There is very little downtime and results start surfacing within days. Full results are apparent in two to three weeks with skin tightening continuing for months.
Ready to Tackle Unwanted Fat?
Whether you opt for liposuction or choose from one of the non-surgical fat removal options, getting rid of that unwanted fat will leave you feeling lighter and with renewed confidence.
So contact us today to discuss your options.
We’ll guide you through all of your options so you can make the most educated decision.
Nutrition Before and After Plastic Surgery
Any time you opt for surgery – even if it’s elective – it’s still important to consider what to put into your body and what to avoid.
Getting the proper nutrition before and after plastic surgery is going to make a difference in how quickly you heal.
That’s why you should always discuss any dietary restrictions you may have with your board-certified plastic surgeon. It’s possible that certain diets could deplete you of key nutrients that will lend to optimal healing.
Preparing Your Body
There are certain foods, drinks, and supplements you may need to avoid the days or week before you prepare for your plastic surgery. Many of these have to do with how they impact blood clotting, but there are other factors.
For example, if you regularly eat a lot of omega-3 foods or take a supplement, you’ll probably need to refrain before surgery because they can increase bleeding and thin the blood.
Vitamins B, D, E, and K can all interfere with anesthesia. And herbal supplements sometimes have anti-coagulant or other qualities that can cause bleeding, and kidney or liver malfunction. They can also affect how patients process anesthesia.
Finally, you’ll be discouraged from two of the biggest offenders – alcohol and caffeine. Along with dehydrating your system, alcohol can thin the blood. Caffeine, meanwhile, can increase bleeding and elevates the heart rate. If you can’t imagine a day a week without your cup of joe, take heart. You likely will only need to abstain a day or two before the procedure.
Keeping Clean for Better Recovery
Going into the surgery clean is also going to assist with recovery. The mistake some patients make is going right back to poor eating habits post-op. When they get bored while waiting for the body to heal, they may be prone to sugary or salty snacks. This is a mistake.
Sugar creates inflammation and suppresses the immune system – neither of which is optimal for healing. Furthermore, salt will zap you of the hydration that’s critical for recovery. It causes you to hold water and can prolong any puffiness of swelling you might experience.
And set the beer/wine/cocktail aside too. Like salt, alcohol also causes fluid retention which can prolong swelling. What’s worse though, it may interact in negative or even dangerous ways with pain medications.
Good news? You can have your coffee again.
The Best Nutrition Before and After Surgery… and Beyond
So now that you know all the things you should avoid, what’s on the approved list of beneficial nutrition before and after surgery? We’ll take a look at the non-offenders:
- Protein
Collagen and blood cell production rely on protein while healing tissues and transporting nutrients. So load up on lean meats, eggs, seeds, and nuts before surgery. Then you can always add the omega-3 heavy fish back in after surgery.
- Zinc & Iron
In terms of preventing infection, zinc is the biggest go-to. Meanwhile, iron helps build red blood cells to boost the above mentioned nutrient delivery. Oysters have the most zinc of all foods. If you’d sooner eat pond scum, you can also find zinc in chick peas, tofu, hemp seeds, oats, and lean beef. These are similar sources for iron, but add in some dark-leafy greens to complete the picture.
- Vitamins A & C
As mentioned above, you’ll want to avoid vitamins B, D, E, and K before surgery. But you can certainly invite them back into your diet after your procedure. Meanwhile, vitamins A and C are kosher for both before and after.
Fruits and vegetables loaded with vitamins A and C, such as spinach, carrots, sweet potatoes, and broccoli, are loaded with antioxidants that will help reduce inflammation and combat the negative effects of free radicals.
- Water
It should go without saying, but drinking plenty of water is nearly always good for you. This is especially true before and after surgery. Staying hydrated is key in both cases. Skin that is hydrated before the procedure will be better equipped to heal wounds and leave less scarring. And post-op, water is key in maintaining the body’s lymphatic system which is busy flushing out the by-products of tissue healing.
So raise a glass (or eight) to water.
Prepare to Look and Feel Great
You’re making a big investment when you decide to get plastic surgery. So you want to get the most out of it.
Contact us today for your free consultation where you’ll be able to discuss diet and nutrition with your plastic surgeon.
Then strive to maintain proper nutrition before and after plastic surgery. Once you establish these good habits, you’ll be surprised at how great you feel.
How Do I Sleep After a Brazilian Butt Lift?
Has your butt deflated while you carry extra weight on other areas of your body? You’re certainly not alone.
A procedure like a Brazilian Butt Lift can address this issue perfectly. It is a surgery though. And that means there’s a chance you’ll experience some discomfort when attempting to sleep after a Brazilian Butt Lift.
We have some simple ways around this to make the discomfort far less. But first we’ll take a look at what this surgery entails.
The Brazilian Butt Lift Procedure
In a strange turn of events, this procedure actually has no direct connection with Brazil. Furthermore, it’s not a lift in the traditional sense of the word. It doesn’t actually address loose skin on the buttocks.
A Brazilian butt lift improves the shape and size of the buttocks in situations where there is not excess skin. Patients who want this procedure prefer fat transfer over implants and need to have adequate fat stores in other areas of the body.
So what goes into a Brazilian butt lift?
First, excess fat is removed with liposuction from areas such as the thighs, abdomen, the area above the buttocks, and the lower back. This fat is then processed and prepared for transfer. From there, the plastic surgeon injects that fat into targeted areas of the buttocks where more volume or fuller shape is desired. This is typically an outpatient procedure that uses general anesthesia or intravenous sedation and local anesthesia.
Best Ways to Sleep After a Brazilian Butt Lift
It’s crucial that you avoid sitting directly upright for four weeks after surgery. Any decrease of circulation to the buttocks could result in the destruction of the newly transferred fat cells. (Yes, you’re allowed to sit down to use the toilet, but that’s it.)
So that means you’re going to be in a reclined position for awhile. And this is good, as rest is essential for healing after surgery. So what are the best tips for getting better rest and sleep after a Brazilian Butt Lift?
- Use Pillows Liberally
Supporting your body is a top priority after this surgery. It’s important to take pressure off your back and buttocks so that you’ll be comfortable. Be sure to have pillows at hand to support any and all areas that require support.
- Lie Flat Only on a Mattress
Whether sleeping or just resting and watching TV or reading, you don’t want to lie flat on your back for too long. And you definitely want to be on a supported mattress when you do. While it may not feel painful while you’re resting, it has the potential to put too much pressure on the back and the buttocks over the long haul.
- Try Side Sleeping
Ultimately, sleeping on your side is the best position when healing from this procedure. If you’re already a side sleeper, this won’t be a big order. You may want to use pillows to prop up one leg so that it’s not resting flat on the bed. Or put a pillow under each knee so there is no added weight on your lower back or buttocks.
On the other hand, if side sleeping is not your natural position, this can take some adjustment. If need be, you could take sleeping aids to help ease you into this unfamiliar territory.
Still Worried You Won’t Be Able to Sleep?
Don’t let concerns about losing sleep after a Brazilian Butt Lift deter you from getting this effective surgery.
Contact us today to get all the details on what to expect from this surgery. And should you opt for this procedure, just know that you won’t be left hanging if you have any issues getting sleep after it.
We’re always happy to provide more recommendations to ensure your healing.
Is Cosmetic Plastic Surgery for Men Too?
It may not seem like cosmetic plastic surgery for men is much of a ‘thing.’ After all, men only account for 8% of cosmetic surgery procedures.
But according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), male cosmetic procedures rose 29% between 2000 and 2018. And post-pandemic numbers are expected to keep rising.
It seems that struggling with insecurities about appearance isn’t gender specific. Yet, it’s overwhelmingly women who are open to talking about the fact that they’ve had work done.
Most Popular Procedures for Men
The majority of men motivated to get cosmetic surgery want to lose that last bit of stubborn fat. This isn’t to say, though, they don’t also have concerns about wrinkles or other imperfections.
So despite the differences between the sexes, men seeking cosmetic plastic surgery are often looking for the same solutions that women are. The following four procedures are the most common:
1. Skin Reduction/Tummy Tuck
It’s not unusual for men to hit their 30s or even 40s and realize that it’s time to take their health seriously. They may start dieting and exercising to get their bodies in better shape. The problem is, once the beer-and-Cheetos belly disappears, the skin that enveloped it has nowhere to go.
Many men are embarrassed by the resulting hanging skin around the mid-section. Especially when they’ve worked so hard to get buff and toned. Skin reduction surgery helps eliminate this unsightly problem.
Then for those who also have fat that’s resistant to diet and exercise, there’s the option of a tummy tuck to further contour the mid-section and show off that six-pack.
2. Brow Lift, Eyes, Face
Historically speaking, women have generally spent more time in front of the mirror. But when the pandemic hit in 2020, men were suddenly staring at themselves on computer screens and noticing every little imperfection they hadn’t before. This ‘Zoom effect’ was a serious motivator for men to seek out cosmetic procedures.
To date, the most popular procedures for the face include brow lifts, upper eye lifts, and liposuction around the jawline and neck. Men are also opting for non-surgical procedures like Botox injections to combat wrinkles.
3. Neck Contouring
Of course, once the face was looking good, the attention started drifting to the neck. Every woman is all too aware of how the skin on the neck loses elasticity and stretches during aging. But once again, the time in front of video calls made men more aware of this.
While women have the option to cover their necks with a stylish scarf, we can all admit that the ascot is hardly a fashion trend for men. And if a beard isn’t an option, a neck lift or other neck contouring procedure can address the loose skin and sagging jawline to deliver a more chiseled look.
4. Male Breast Reduction
If you think any sort of plastic surgery for the breast is purely women’s domain, think again.
Breast reduction surgery is gaining in popularity among men who are troubled to find that their breasts are becoming fattier as they age. And no amount of diet or exercise remedies it. For them, male breast reduction, or gynecomastia, reduces the swelling in the breast area to give the pectorals more definition.
Curious About Cosmetic Plastic Surgery for Men?
While cosmetic plastic surgery for men may still be in its infancy, as more men open up about having these surgical procedures, the less stigma there will be.
If you’re a man struggling with insecurities about your appearance, contact us today. During your free consultation, we’ll advise you on the next best steps to get that more youthful look. We’ll also ensure that you feel comfortable with being (something of) a trail blazer!
Why Compression After Plastic Surgery?
When patients make the decision to have plastic surgery, they’re often so excited by the notion of looking and feeling better, they forget about the importance of compression after plastic surgery.
‘Compression garment’ doesn’t exactly scream glamour. But it’s an incredibly useful tool to ensure a quicker and more efficient recovery. Plus, when worn during initial healing, it provides comfort and support.
With that said, it may sound like a compression garment is more or less optional.
So Then Can You Skip Compression After Plastic Surgery?
Obviously, you won’t be under the scrutiny of the compression garment police. But you’re strongly advised not to skip this important step.
The purpose of compression is triple fold. First, by maintaining constant pressure to the healing area, excess fluid build-up can’t occur. The body must then absorb any accumulated fluid. This, in turn, minimizes swelling and pain.
Second, less swelling equals less time healing. And the quicker you heal, the faster you’ll see those desired results. Without compression, on the other hand, post-op swelling will last considerably longer and you’ll have a longer wait.
And finally, compression also helps your skin form to the new body contour. This is particularly crucial if you’re having liposuction. It also prevents flabby or wrinkled skin which can detract from the overall results.
What If People Notice?
If you feel self-conscious about wearing a compression garment, know that it’s not your grandma’s/grandpa’s garment. Today’s garments aren’t bunched up and bulky. You can get them in various shades and accessorize them with outerwear. Once you layer yours underneath looser clothes with thick fabric, nobody will even know you’re wearing it.
Plus, a well-fitting garment is going to lay flat on your skin and support your body with gentle pressure. When fitted properly, it doesn’t hinder circulation or cause fluid buildup. And you won’t feel like your circulation is cut off or that your limbs may fall asleep.
Can You Take a Break?
Depending on your procedure, your board-certified plastic surgeon will likely recommend you wear a compression garment 24/7 for at least one week and up to three weeks.
While these newer compression garments have come a long way, there will be times you’ll want to remove it. For example, you won’t bathe in it. And much like taking off a bra or loosening a tie at the end of the day, it does feel nice to let loose for a bit. A short break is completely acceptable.
Even so, you’ll want to keep the breaks to a minimum and not do any heavy lifting or other strenuous activities without it. Also, be sure to wear soft and loose clothing that won’t disturb your incision(s). Then get that garment back on. Because the more you wear it during initial healing, the more effective it will be.
Is Plastic Surgery In Your Future?
Don’t let the notion of compression after plastic surgery stop you from getting your desired procedure. It’s a small price to pay for such a huge payoff.
So contact us today to discuss your plastic surgery objectives and goals. We’ll put your mind at ease so you can soon unveil a brand new you.
