Articles About Plastic Surgery Procedures

Even after 35 years as a plastic and reconstructive surgeon, the facelift continues to be one of my favorite procedures to perform. Over the years, my technique has changed based on my vast experience and emerging research. I like both the technical elements of the facelift and the positive impact patients experience post-surgery. I see a restoring of confidence and vitality after correcting the unwanted signs of aging on the face. One of the most common questions we hear from individuals interested in a facelift is, “how much does a facelift cost?”. It is important to understand the financial part of [...]

Liposuction is a cosmetic surgery for removing fat from various body parts. Although the abdomen is the most commonly targeted part for liposuction, the procedure is also conducted on the buttocks, abdomen, chin, neck, back, thighs, and arms. Liposuction not only contours the body but is also beneficial in the following medical conditions: Gynecomastia – This is a condition where men have developed breast tissues. The fatty tissue of the breast is removed using liposuction. Lipomas – This is a condition where the body develops fatty tumors that are benign. Lipodystrophy Syndrome – This condition is a side-effect of taking HIV medications. [...]

Breast size is a topic that impacts many women, whether it is about getting breast implants or a breast reduction. When the goal is a reduction in breast size, women may wonder about the options that are available. Depending on the situation and personal health, the best way to reduce breast size can vary. Weight Loss Depending on the situation and current body weight, women may be able to reduce breast size through diet and exercise. Weight loss will have an impact on the entire body, but the effect on breast size will depend on the amount of weight lost, the current [...]

Texturized implants were introduced to decrease the rate of capsular contracture “hardening” of the breast. It turns out, however, that the capsular contracture rate with texturized implants is the same as that of smooth walled implants. Furthermore, the failure rate of texturized implants is greater than that of smooth implants. Therefore, I see no reason to ever use them for breast augmentation. About 30 years ago there were breast implants available covered in polyurethane sponge that were purported to have a lower capsular contracture rate than conventional smooth walled implants. The sponge covering was irregular and thought to play a role [...]

There’s no denying that making the decision to get any type of cosmetic enhancement, like a facelift, is an extremely personal experience. Where a medical surgery might be necessary for the sake of your health, a cosmetic surgery is merely a voluntary decision that stems from social and emotional triggers. Because cosmetic surgery is a big deal, it’s a good idea to consider a few things before going under the knife, especially for a facelift. 1. Make Sure You Choose the Right Surgeon Let’s face it. Some surgeons are better than others for performing certain types of surgeries. When you get this [...]

Liposuction is a surgical procedure in which fat deposits are removed from beneath the skin to provide a more attractive shape. Generally, the hips, waist, thighs, buttocks, back, neck, arms, calves, and ankles are reshaped for a thinner appearance. Liposuction is sometimes done in conjunction with other cosmetic surgery techniques. How Is Liposuction Done? In the procedure, a thin tube called a cannula with a vacuum attached is inserted under the skin and gently worked to loosen and remove the excess fat. A number of techniques are used, including injecting fluid to help break down fatty tissue, ultrasound waves to break [...]

A breast augmentation is an operation, so naturally, there is some post-operative pain.  Patients experience pain differently after any operation because of personal differences.  Nevertheless, there is a fairly predictable range of discomfort after the procedure. Post-operative pain is greatly influenced by whether the breast implants are placed above or below the pectoralis muscle.  Implantation above (subglandular) is much less painful since the pectoralis muscle is undisturbed. Women describe subglandular pain as an uncomfortable “fullness” or, for those that have experienced both, “feels like I need to breastfeed”. In a submuscular placement, the pectoralis is not cut but it is stretched and [...]

1. The surgeon points out aesthetic flaws you didn’t inquire about. Suppose a woman sees a surgeon about breast augmentation and the surgeon, without prompting, asks “Have you thought about doing something about your nose?” The purpose of aesthetic surgery is to make people feel better about themselves.  Planting doubt for the purpose of generating business is unethical. 2. The operation you are considering can be performed by him in his office but not in a hospital. A doctor can pretty much do anything he wants in his office.  If he cannot do the proposed operation in a hospital, it is [...]

1. Women with breast implants can’t breastfeed. Not all women can breastfeed with or without breast implants.  After breast augmentation, breastfeeding is possible regardless of whether the implant is above or below the pectoralis muscle. 2. Breast augmentation makes mammography less accurate. Implants do indeed make mammograms more complicated but not less accurate.  Oftentimes additional views of the breast are needed to “see around” the breast implant.  However, if the mammogram is performed properly, it is as accurate as if no implant were in place. 3. Breast implants increase the risk of breast cancer. Actually, the reverse is true-breast implants slightly [...]

Gynecomastia is breast development in a male. Since breasts are composed of both glandular and fatty tissue, the relative contribution of each determines the proper treatment. Most gynecomastia is idiopathic (it just happens). Occasionally, medications or medical conditions can be responsible for the problem. These are sorted out before surgical treatment. You can also read more about gynecomastia here. Time About 30% of teenage boys develop some modest gynecomastia as they pass through puberty. Almost always it disappears without treatment although its complete resolution may take a couple of years. The small breast bud can be tender which is an occasional indication [...]