mdmediaexp: Recent Episodes

View Details

For those of you researching your breast augmentation options, you may have come across overseas implants that are not yet cleared by the FDA for use in the US market. As you weigh the pros and cons of different manufacturers and their implants, remember that an FDA implant approval signifies a comprehensive safety testing history and a rigorous oversight of its manufacturing quality.

The importance of FDA approval with breast implants* Seeking out non-FDA breast implants comes with some risks. The FDA approval process requires years of clinical trials and data analysis to confirm safety and effectiveness. Opting for an untested implant is a gamble as it may lack long-term durability and safety testing. * Foreign brands that appear entirely “new” are often rebranded versions of existing US options. Therefore, a different name overseas doesn’t necessarily indicate something innovative or novel. * Just because an implant is common in other countries doesn’t mean it’s superior. A lack of FDA approval generally indicates that the implant itself has not been studied enough or it doesn’t have the comprehensive clinical data needed for the US market. It has no bearing on the performance or durability per se. * New styles of implants can face many delays coming to market even with established FDA-approved manufacturers like Mentor and Allergan. The process of getting any breast implant approved is cumbersome and time consuming.

As you weigh implant choices, an FDA clearance does give the implant a meaningful stamp of approval. It also indicates that extensive testing and checks have been completed. While the approval process is cumbersome and can slow implant innovation, it remains the gold standard for ensuring your safety. Most plastic surgeons only use FDA-cleared breast implants in the US. Using devices without this approval introduces too many unnecessary risks for a very safe surgery.

View Details

If you’re considering breast augmentation, you may have heard or read that breast implants need to be replaced every 10 years. Fortunately, this is not true. There is no expiration date for breast implants, especially if the surgery is done expertly and with high-quality implants. To set the record straight, here is what you should understand about the durability and longevity of breast implants with this transformative procedure:

• There isn’t a pre-programmed lifespan or automatic expiration date for breast implants. The “10-year” average comes from outdated statistics and it doesn’t take into account the increased durability of our current breast implant technologies. These technologies have vastly improved over the past 30 years.
• Your breast implants could potentially last decades if you are fortunate enough to avoid common issues like capsular contracture or implant rupture. You can confirm that your implants are aging well with periodic MRIs and breast exams.
• As long as your implants remain soft and you don’t have issues, there’s no specific timeframe for when they must be replaced. If they look and feel good, you should leave them be.
• Breasts age differently from person to person, therefore it’s hard to predict how your breasts will change after this surgery. Many patients get revision surgery for age-related changes like droopiness, not because of an implant issue.
• To ensure that you get the most out of your implants, it is important to get regular physical exams, avoid traumatic injuries to your chest area, and implement an implant massage routine after surgery.

Remember, breast implants are not considered permanent but they have no planned date of obsolescence. Today’s cohesive gel and saline options are built to last and there is no mandatory replacement schedule. Although a revision or removal remains likely in your lifetime, your breast implants do not “expire” at any predetermined endpoint. As long as you stay vigilant about breast health the odds are that you will be able to enjoy your implants for years if not decades.

View Details

If you’re considering breast augmentation, at some point you will have to decide if you want saline or silicone implants. Either choice works well but there are distinct benefits and drawbacks for each. In this article we compare these different types of breast implants so that you can make this choice with confidence.

Fact #1: All implants have the same type of shellYou may have heard or read that saline implants are the “safest” option because saline implants don’t contain silicone. This is false. This is what you need to know:

• Here’s the reality: Saline implants have an outer silicone shell made of a silicone elastomer. This silicone elastomer is important because it allows saline implants to hold their shape when filled.
• The same shell: Implant manufacturers use similar silicone shells for every saline or silicone breast implant they sell. There are very few differences from one type to another.
• Silicone is safe: Silicone is an inert compound. Due to its size, it doesn’t travel to other parts of the body, even in the rare case that a silicone gel implant ruptures.
• It’s well contained: After surgery, all implants have some microscopic shedding of their silicone shells into the surrounding soft tissues. In response, your body forms protective scar tissue around the implant space, effectively containing this process.

Fact # 2: Saline Implants are filled with saltwater, and silicone with viscous gel

• Saline Implants: As discussed, these implants have a hollow silicone shell that is filled with a sterile saline solution during surgery.
• Silicone Implants: Like saline implants, silicone-filled implants also have a silicone outer shell. These implants come prefilled from the manufacturer.

Fact #3: Saline and silicone implants do rupture Rupter looks different for saline versus silicone implants. Both implant technologies have advanced tremendously in recent years and implant failure is uncommon. The rupture rates of modern silicone implants are less than 2% over 5 years and less than 15% over 10 years. Understanding the differences in what happens when an implant envelope fails is helpful should this ever occur to you:

• Saline ruptures: Saline implant ruptures are almost immediately noticeable. As the sterile saltwater quickly leaks out of the implant following a rupture, your breast rapidly deflates and changes shape. The remaining liquid then is absorbed into the surrounding tissue:
  • If you have a sudden change in your breast size or a new onset of unevenness, your implant may have ruptured.
  • There are no safety risks associated with saline ruptures unless, in rare cases, there was mold contamination in the implant itself during the initial surgery.
• Silicone ruptures: In contrast, silicone implant ruptures are considered “silent”. In most cases, the silicone gel is cohesive and stays within the scar capsule surrounding the implant. In this scenario, there will be little noticeable change externally:
  • Because ruptures tend to be silent, you will be encouraged to get a screening MRI of your breasts at regular intervals to monitor the health of your implants. If a rupture is found, a timely removal and replacement surgery will be recommended.

Fact #4: Silicone implants look and feel more naturalAlthough both types of implant are considered safe, current implant technologies make silicone a better choice for those seeking a natural look and feel:

• More natural: Silicone implants feel more like natural breast tissue. They have a soft and natural texture, jiggle like real breasts and they maintain their shape better.
• Less natural: Saline implants tend to feel firmer when overfilled and have visible rippling when underfilled. They are also more abt to have palpable ridges along the edge of the implant over time.

Fact #5: Saline Implants can be adjusted in the OR Fine-tuning: The benefit of saline implants is that their fill can be adjusted during surgery to fine-tune for asymmetries. This may be helpful if your breasts are drastically different sizes. * Pre-filled:* Silicone implants come in set fill amounts (refrrred to as volume) from the factory so their size can’t be fine-tuned in the OR like saline implants. In most cases you can work around this limitation by using different silicone implant sizes.

So which type will you choose?Together we will determine which option best fits your aesthetic goals. Remember, Saline implants are filled after placement in the OR, which allows for easier correction of size asymmetries. Leaks with these implants are obvious as your affected breast will quickly deflate. Saline implants wripple more and often feel less natural. Meanwhile, silicone gel-filled implants better mimic the soft, natural feel of breast tissue. Today’s cohesive “gummy bear” silicone implants hold their shape well and are less likely to wrinkle or fold. They are also more durable. But the downside to silicone implants is that leaks can go undetected for longer so they must be monitored with periodic MRIs.

I hope this helps dispel some of the confusion about different types of breast implants! Let me know if you have any other questions.

View Details

If you’re researching breast augmentation you may have heard of “gummy bear” breast implants. This term refers to the newer generation of cohesive silicone gel-filled implants which have a thicker, more put-together filling than older silicone implants. Most silicone implants these days are “gummy bear” implants. So check out this blog article which gives you all the details on cohesive gel, aka “gummy bear” implants.

Gummy Bear implants are now the standardIf there is one piece of information that you should take away from this article, it is that most, if not all, silicone breast implants sold in the United States have the newer generation silicone gel (aka gummy fill). Here are the need-to-know facts about cohesive gel implants:

• Cohesive silicone gel, in some form, is the standard for filling of today’s silicone implants:
  • The term “gummy bear” was coined over 20 years ago when advancements in silicone implant technology were still new but today, nearly all silicone breast implants use a more cohesive filling that retains its shape even when the implant shell is cut.
• Cohesive gel is not firm like a gummy bear:
  • The name is misleading, especially if you imagine how an actual gummy bear feels! Silicone gel filling has a soft and natural feeling just like your natural breast tissue. The “gummy” description refers to how the thicker gel holds together and retains the implant’s shape.
• There are a few key benefits of cohesive gel implants:
  • Holds form better for more projection and cleavage
  • Lower rupture rates
  • Improved safety if rupture occurs
  • More overfill options available
• The latest “gummy bear” style breast implants feel more realistic, like your natural breast:
  • Newer implants, like the Mentor Boost option, combine a moderate overfill for projection with innovative gel that avoids a too-firm feel. This achieves a better shape without compromising softness.

Get ready for your amazing transformationWhen you undergo breast augmentation with silicone implants, the latest generation of safe, shapely, and natural-feeling cohesive gel implants will be used. Hopefully, this clears up the confusion regarding this outdated term. If you are seriously considering breast augmentation, you should also take a deeper dive into other implant-related topics. Some of our suggestions include:

• Silicone versus saline?
• How to size your implant
• Comparing breast implant shapes/sizes

If you are serious about moving ahead, contact our office today to book your consultation!

View Details

One of the most common implant questions I get from patients interested in breast augmentation is “what is the best size for me?” It is a great question, especially since the process of selecting implants can be overwhelming. There are just so many options and how do you know what will be the best fit? Fortunately, the answer comes into view at your pre-operative appointment. With our help, this is where your implant options are narrowed down and the overall direction becomes much more clear. We make the selection process collaborative and arm you with the right information so that you can be excited about the final decision. So let’s get this selection process started!

Selecting the perfect implant: size mattersIt is important to restate that selecting the perfect implant takes a collaborative process. You need to come to your pre-operative appointment prepared to discuss your aesthetic vision for your breasts. On our end, we will help you narrow down the options to ensure that we stay focused on those goals. This process starts with considering a few key factors:

• Breast width: We begin by carefully measuring the width of your breasts. This measurement serves as the basis for choosing an appropriately sized implant that gives you body balance while also ensuring you have the most desirable results.
• Consider projection: Implants vary in their level of forward projection. The amount of projection will impact your outcome, especially with the appearance of your cleavage and overall breast shape. During your pre-operative appointment, we will have you try on sizers to visualize how implants with different projections change your appearance. More projecting implants add more fullness at the top of your breast. They also reduce visible rippling when overfilled but the downside is that they can appear more augmented.
• Body balance: It is important that you look to your own body, not your friend’s or sister’s body, as the guide. The perfect implant will complement your natural contours. Larger, ultra-high-profile options can create a very augmented appearance, while more moderate profiles provide a more natural appearance. This is where communicating your aesthetic goals makes the biggest difference and will help us guide you through the selection.
• Think beyond cup size: Two patients asking for the same “cup size” will almost always end up with entirely different-sized implants. This is because the selection process first and foremost depends on their body proportions and these can vary drastically from one person to another. It is important that you keep an open mind when you consider implant sizes. Using cup size alone can be misleading.
• Trust our experience: We want you to feel confident with your choice and in turn love your results. And we are dedicated to you! Rely on our expertise and less on anecdotes. Our recommendation process is very consistent. We use your custom measurements as the foundation. Next, we embrace an open communication style that emphasizes education to narrow down the choices further. Lastly, we rely on our keen artistic eye to finalize our picks.

The perfect size, the perfect you!Choosing the perfect implant size is a collaborative process that uses the pre-operative appointment as a time for exploration. At this appointment, you should be prepared to “try on” various implant sizes and profiles. Seeing and feeling the differences will help you understand your options. Together, we will select the ideal implants. These will be tailored to your aesthetic goals and most importantly, we will find your perfect size! Let us know if you have any other questions about selecting the perfect breast implant.

View Details

Choosing the right implant is critical to achieving your best results. In our office, this decision is primarily made at your pre-operative appointment. You should come to this appointment prepared to discuss what you envision for your breast. There are some things you can do to make this decision-making process run more smoothly. Check out the tips below to get started.

Preparing for your breast implant selection Follow these tips to get ready for your preoperative appointment:

• Bring a form-fitting top: Wear or bring a stretchy tight shirt like a tank top. This allows you to better envision the results and also helps you see how different implant sizes, shapes, and profiles work with the contours of your body.
• Do your research: Get acquainted with the different types of implants, including the different profiles, and sizes. The pre-operative appointment is the time for you to ask informed questions. It is also important for you to let us know your preferences. Would you rather maximize fullness, do you lean more toward an athletic frame, or do you simply want to look proportional?
• Bring pictures: Inspiration images are very helpful. These are the best way to visually convey the breast shape and size you want as sometimes words don’t do it justice. In our office we will also look at pictures we take of your breasts. This will assist in narrowing the selections down.
• Discuss lifestyle factors: You should let us know your normal exercise routines, what your training schedule entails and what are your general fluctuations in weight over the past few years. All of these factors could impact the implant options we recommend for you.
• Ask questions: This is your chance to understand the procedure, recovery, risks, and what you can expect months and years after surgery. No question is silly – this decision deserves your full understanding.

We got this! The best is yet to comeSelecting your breast implants is an exciting process. Following these tips will set you up for a smooth pre-appointment and ensure that you get the best experience when we choose your implants. Together we will determine the best implant options tailored to your vision. It is that straightforward!

View Details

As a plastic surgeon who specializes in breast augmentation, one of the most common questions I get from my patients is “How do you determine which implant is best for me?” It’s a great question. On the ground, the implant selection process requires careful consideration to make sure you get the best results. This is why it is so important to go to an office like ours that spends extra time working through this decision. But what is that process? To get you more acquainted with the right way to choose your perfect breast implant, take a look at this blog article. In it, we provide an inside look into our step-by-step approach to making the right choice.

Where we start: your breast dimensionsWe always begin by measuring the dimensions of your breast, including your breast width. This allows us to select an implant that matches your anatomy for more natural and body-positive results. It also establishes a baseline dimension that will significantly influence what implant sizes and profiles we can accommodate. Implants that are too wide or narrow for your chest can lead to problems like visible rippling, an unbalanced appearance, and wonky placement. From there we then consider:

• The best volume – Based on how much fuller you wish to appear, we select a range of implant volumes for you to compare. Generally, more volume creates a more augmented look.
• The best projection – This refers to how much the implant projects off your chest. During your pre-operative appointment, we’ll have you look at options with differing projections. Less projection usually looks more subtle while more projection adds perkiness, specifically in the upper part of your breast (above your nipple and areola).

A little more on implant projection As we noted, if you stick with your natural breast width, implant projection will ultimately determine your outcome, natural versus augmented. Determining the best projection for you comes from what we see in your exam and what you want to achieve:

• Upper pole fullness – fuller, more projecting implants provide more volume in the cleavage and upper breast, above your nipple and areola. Ask yourself: Are you deficient in these areas?
• Support needs – higher projecting implants in most cases offer greater structure and support to your breast tissue. Ask yourself: Are your breasts not only small but also loose and need support?
• Rippling concerns – More projecting implants are usually overfilled allowing them to maintain their shape. This also means they will have less visible rippling after surgery. Ask yourself: Do you have enough natural breast tissue to camouflage an underfilled implant that tends to ripple?

Seeing is believingTo demonstrate how this all comes together, we have patients try on sample implants in different sizes and profiles. It’s one thing to talk abstractly about cubic centimeters and projections but seeing and feeling the differences is more relatable. We have numerous implant sizers that are slipped into your bra to simulate possible outcomes. When you are trying these on, remember:

• Lower profile Implants – tend to be less filled, will appear more natural.
• Higher profile implants – tend to be overfilled, will appear less natural, have a more animated shape

It all comes down to the trade-offBy starting with your breast width, you can then work your way through different-sized implants. When you set the width of the implant, the only way to increase the size is to increase the projection. In other words:

• For a set width, smaller implants will have less projection while larger implants will have more projection.
• When working through the selection process, you will have to find your tolerance for projection. More projection will equal more of a cup size change but a more augmented appearance. And vice versa, for less projecting implants. The real question is what do you prefer?
• By looking in a mirror with different sizers in your bra and at photos of people with similar body types who have had breast augmentation, the type of “look” you want will become clear. Seeing is believing.

Want to read more? Saline vs. SIlicone

Trust the processWhile the array of options may seem overwhelming at first, trusting an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon and their staff to guide you through the implant selection process from start to finish is key. In our office, we help each of our patients customize choices to their body, lifestyle, and aesthetic vision. I hope this inside look demystifies the selection process so that you feel informed and confident going into surgery. That is our top priority. Please reach out with any other questions and if you haven’t already, schedule an appointment with our office today!

View Details

If you are considering breast augmentation, understanding your implant options is an important first step in understanding what this surgery can and can’t do. It is also a good primer to review before your consult or preoperative appointment with our office. Don’t worry, you won’t be tested on this information, but getting acquainted with the implant basics beforehand is really helpful. Use this blog article as a reference point on your journey to understand if breast augmentation is right for you.

The two main categories of implantsContrary to popular belief all breast implants start with a similar silicone shell or covering. This is analogous to a balloon before being filled with water or air. Like this balloon example, the two main categories of breast implants differ only by how they are filled:

• Saline implants: These are filled with sterile saltwater. In general, they tend to feel less natural and will have more visible rippling. They are a good option if you want the ability to adjust fill volume during surgery.
• Silicone implants: These are filled with a viscous silicone gel. In general, they have a softer, more natural look and feel. This is the preferred choice in most cases.
• Traditional silicone fill: Older-generation silicone implants held together well but the gel was not cohesive and would leak out if the implant shell ruptured.
• Form-stable silicone fill: “Gummy bear” aka cohesive gel silicone implant can maintain its shape even when the shell is ruptured or tears. This gel is thicker and more bound than traditional silicone fill. Almost all new silicone implants will have cohesive gel and.

Options for different shapesImplants don’t just come in different sizes. They also come in different shapes. Here is the breakdown:

• Round implants: These suit most patients well as they create a full symmetrical contour. It is our go-to implant. They also come in different projections which allows us to tailor your results, from youthful and augmented to more subtle and natural. It’s your choice!
• Shaped or “anatomic” implants: These are contoured to mimic the slope of real breasts. The teardrop shape can appear more natural but often doesn’t give enough augmentation to the places that need improvement.

If you are ready to move ahead, come ready to discussIf you have a consultation scheduled with our office, below list a few things you should be ready to discuss. We have also included links to other articles so feel free to delve further into these topics:

• Your cosmetic goals and expectations
• Lifestyle or medical factors that may impact the implant type choice
• Incision site preferences
• Whether you want a more augmented or conservative change in cup size

It all starts with deciding if this surgery is right for you and understanding your options is key to making that decision. So get yourself prepared and come ready to discuss your vision. The more educated and empowered you are, the easier the implant selection process will be. After surgery you will have nothing left to do but enjoy your beautifully transformed breasts.

View Details

You made your decision to move ahead and now you’re wondering, “How do I pick the perfect implant size?” Doing your own research can be overwhelming because there are so many options available. Just a single implant size can come in different projections, shapes and fills. It’s confusing! So how do we narrow it down? This is where our expertise can help. Our selection process starts with your aesthetic vision and then meticulously builds upon a few key factors. This ensures that you get the best implant without leaving it up to chance.

What we consider There are a few things we consider before narrowing down our choices for your implant. Taking these into account will ensure that your results are natural, body positive and transformative:

• Your anatomical measurements – For natural breast augmentation, the dimensions of your breasts are our most important consideration. These measurements will include the width of your breast, the distance from your nipple to the base of your breast, and the distance from the base of your neck to your nipple. Using these objective metrics, not arbitrary ones like dress or cup size, takes the guessing game out of your ideal implant specifications.
• Your desired look – Bring some photos or examples of what you like and don’t like to your appointment. This is such an important step as your aesthetic vision for your breast will be our north star during this selection process. When searching for inspiration, it is important for you to be realistic about your anatomical limitations and look at people with your same body type. With today’s implant options most of your aesthetic goals are achievable.
• Your lifestyle – There are many other factors that we have to take into account before selecting your perfect implant. One of those is your lifestyle. When considering one’s lifestyle, you have to look first at your daily activities: working out, work or home responsibilities and even extra extracurricular interests. We also review your sleep habits. Your clothing preferences matter, especially the more revealing options, like bathing suits. Many of these factors are more important than you would think initially.

How we narrow it down Once you get a good idea of the range of implants that would work for your body, you then have to narrow down your choices, Here are the methods we use to finalize our decision:

• Sizers – Sizer implants placed into your bras will help you “try on ” various shapes and sizes. Seeing and feeling these choices can give good insight into your final result. It’s important to have a tighter fitting top on during this part of this selection process so that you get a better idea of what it would look like afterwards when you look in the mirror.
• Photos – Looking at our before and after photos of patients with your similar body type is extremely helpful. By reviewing the size of the implant that was used in a case, you can get a better understanding of what this would look like on a real person. Though not entirely accurate, computer imaging and 3D reconstructions can provide some useful visual simulations on how different implant sizes can change your breast contour.
• Our recommendation – Remember, we have experience analyzing thousands of breasts, and then selecting implants that fit each unique body type. It is what we do every week! You should trust our eyes as they can make a noticeable difference in the outcome. Tailoring this selection to your anatomy and aesthetic vision is so important. We make sure both of these are taken into account in the final decision.

Want to read more? The Implant Discussion

The most important takeaway: there are no “standardized” implants used in breast augmentation. Therefore, your selection process is treated as such. Your breasts are unique and the vision you have for them should be honored. By starting with this approach, your implant specifications should be customized to your goals. With so many different implant options now available almost anything is achievable. Taking the necessary time before surgery to make this decision ensures that you will have beautiful and natural-looking results perfectly tailored to your body.

View Details

You’ve scheduled your breast augmentation, now it is time to prepare for your preoperative appointment. During this visit, we review everything about your upcoming surgery, including the benefits, the potential risks, and your recovery plan. The more prepared and informed you are the better your overall experience will be. So take a little time to get ready for your preoperative appointment and use the questions below as a starting point. We have also included links to other articles so that you can delve into these topics further before your appointment.

Add these questions to your listThe pre-operative appointment is your opportunity to gather essential information and to gain confidence in your decision to move ahead. Here are some key questions we recommend that you ask, to make the most of this appointment:

• What are realistic outcomes for my breasts when you take into account my body type and the different implant shapes and sizes that are available?
  • Bring examples of breasts that you like, including different shapes, sizes, and contours that you want for yourself. We will discuss what is and is not achievable with your body type.
  • It is important that you understand the pros and cons of different types and styles of implants. With numerous options available, you should have a basic understanding of the differences.

Read More: How to Size Your Implant

• What are your qualifications and experience with breast augmentation procedures?
  • Don’t be afraid to ask about training, board certifications, and how many augmentations we perform yearly.
  • The pre-operative appointment is the time to do your due diligence, that includes asking about your surgeon’s experience! We love these questions because it gives us a chance to talk about our passion and our extensive experience with this surgery.

Read More: Choosing a Surgeon

• How will my augmentation be performed?
  • It is important that you understand the options for the incision locations and placement of your implants. You need to make sure you are good with the surgical plan.
  • Don’t forget to discuss the options for reducing immediate post-operative discomfort with local and regional anesthesia injections. These can make a big difference in that first day of recovery.

Read More: The Scar Info

• When can I resume my normal routine after surgery?
  • It is important to have a sound recovery plan. You will need to schedule help with your work duties, and family obligations during the first 1-2 weeks of recovery.
  • Also ask about the timelines for your return to driving, travel, exercise, and normal daily activity. These will be based on personal factors, like your timeframe for healing, your need for prescription pain medications, and your lifestyle factors.

Read More: The First Two Months

• What medications will I need after surgery and what is each for?
  • Know your prescribed or recommended over-the-counter medications and what each does. You will likely get prescribed upto 1 week supply of pain medications and muscle relaxants but most patients do not need prescription pain medicaions for long. The duration of antibiotic prescriptions will vary from person to person.
  • Make sure you know how/when these medications are filled and refilled if needed. Do you have your pharmacy picked out and do you plan on picking up these medications before surgery? The answer should be yes and yes!

Read More: Recovery Tips

• What do I need at home to prepare for my recovery?
  • Ensure that you have groceries, pillows, chargers, and comfort items ready. One great option is to create a recovery station near your bed or chill area that you can use during the first week of recovery.
  • Moving all essential items to waist level will go a long way to help you prepare for recovery. You want to limit reaching up or down during the immediate recovery. Don’t make it hard on yourself!

Read More: Preparing For Recovery

• Will I need help caring for my children or other dependents after surgery?
  • Finalize your support system needs for the first few days after surgery, not just for you but for those you are also responsible for.
  • It is always helpful to line up meals, rides, and childcare to make your recovery less stressful.

Read More: Everything to Expect

• What are the potential risks and complications associated with this surgery? Ensure you fully understand the possible side effects.
  • Informed consent discussions are very important and this is the time for you to fully review and understand the risks and benefits of this surgery.
  • It is also important that you discuss the side effects of this surgery and the consequences of undergoing a medical implant procedure that isn’t permanent.

Read More: Should I do it?

• Are revision surgeries ever necessary, and what would warrant revisions?
  • While complications are rare, it’s good to understand what complications can occur after this surgery.
  • Since breast augmentation is not a permanent surgery, additional surgery is most likely inevitable at some point in your life. Therefore, you should understand when revisions are needed and what that would entail surgically and financially.

Read More: Bigger is Better?

This list is just the start. You may also want to talk about infection risks, potential for scarring, nipple sensation changes, or specifics about your custom surgical plan. The question options are endless, but the objective of this appointment is to bring more clarity to your surgical plan, your expected outcome, and your recovery. Being fully informed before surgery is extremely important. It is the best way to be confident about what is to come.

View Details

You’ve done your research, found our office, and now you decided to move ahead with surgery. It is an exciting time! The next step is to get prepared, starting with your preoperative appointment. This appointment is typically scheduled 2-4 weeks before your procedure and it helps you plan for all aspects of your upcoming surgery and recovery.

Here’s what you need to knowThe preoperative appointment is a planning and information-gathering visit. The key elements of this appointment include:

• Reviewing your goals, medical history, and selecting implants
• Reviewing and signing the informed consent form
• Taking preoperative photographs
• Going over pre- and post-op instructions
• Receiving prescriptions and orders for medical clearances
• Confirming surgery arrival time and start time
• Making final payment for surgery
• Scheduling initial postoperative follow-up visits

The StepsCrucial conversation: We start with an in-depth conversation discussing what we hope to achieve. Come prepared to work through:

• Your goals for your breasts: size, shape, and projection
• Your lifestyle, athletic activities, and other considerations that may impact decisions
• Your medical history including any previous surgeries or health conditions
• Options for implant type (saline or silicone), sizing, placement, and incision location

This discussion is essential for developing a customized surgical plan that takes into account your body and goals. Bring any questions or photos of results that speak to you. The more we work through your preferences the better.

Preoperative photos: Next, we will take photographs of your breasts. Preoperative photos are an important part of your medical record. Standard preoperative photos taken include:

• Full front chest
• Oblique angles focusing on your breasts
• Side profiles showing your breast silhouette

Although it may feel uncomfortable to have your photos taken they serve a vital purpose and established a photographic record of what your breasts look like before surgery. This is important for you and our office. Taking your photographs before and after surgery, allows for side-by-side comparisons of your results. It is a lot of fun to compare these photos post-operatively. We also use them to make your operative plan and to document asymmetries. These images are part of your medical history and strictly confidential. Pictures will never shared publicly without your written consent.

Your exam: We will perform an exam and also take measurements of your breasts. This will help us to select your implant. We will also use various implant sizers placed into your bra to demo potential outcomes. You’ll have the opportunity to “try on” different sizes, and profiles. This will include:

• A discussion of what looks good to you
• Education on the implant options
• Review other results from patients who have your body type

Informed Consent: The informed consent process outlines the risks, benefits, and alternatives to breast augmentation so that you can make an educated decision about surgery. This documentation will include:

• Step-by-step specifics of how the procedure will be performed
• Potential complications like bleeding, infection, and capsular contracture
• Options if revision surgery is necessary in the future

We will answer any of your questions at this time. Informed consent is critical for understanding the surgical plan and what we do when unexpected outcomes happen.

Surgical planning: Surgical preparation and recovery information will be provided at the preoperative visit as well. This will include these pre-operative instructions:

• When to stop certain supplements or medications that increase bleeding risk
• Getting medical clearance from your PCP if you have health conditions
• Guidelines for eating, drinking, and bathing, leading up to the procedure
• What to bring/not bring to the surgery center or hospital
• Reminders about arrival time, arranging transportation, and having a caregiver for at least the first 24 hours post-surgery

You will also receive your post-operative instructions laying out how you can heal comfortably and effectively after the procedure. This will include:

• Guidelines for resuming activity, week-by-week
• Incision care instructions
• Medications for pain management
• Instructions for wearing a surgical bra or garment
• Warning signs of potential complications needing urgent follow-up
• Scheduling your follow-up appointments

Come prepared with questions, especially regarding when you can return to work, exercise, travel, and other routine activities.

The medical checklist: At the preoperative visit, you’ll receive e-prescriptions for:

• Antibiotics to prevent infection
• Pain medications for post-surgical discomfort
• Muscle relaxers or anti-nausea medicines if needed

It is important to pick these up before surgery. You may also receive orders for pre-admission or pre-surgical testing. Diagnostic tests may include:

• Bloodwork
• Urinalysis
• Chest x-ray
• Mammogram
• Electrocardiogram (EKG)

All testing is completed close to the surgery date to ensure that we are looking at your current health status. Results should be sent directly to us. For some patients, we will advise them to get these tests completed with their primary doctor or specialists. That is on a case-by-case basis.

Final Payment: After your preoperative education is complete and your informed surgical consent has been given, the final invoice for your surgery is due. This will include:

• The surgeon’s fee
• Anesthesia and other providers’ costs
• Implant fees
• Hospital or surgical facility charges
• Post-surgical garments/medications

We give you these cost details in writing so there are no surprises on the day of surgery.

Now you are ready!A thoughtful and inclusive preoperative appointment is the best way to ease your anxiety about surgery and get you excited about what is to come. We want you to leave this appointment feeling empowered, educated, and confident, especially with our surgical plan. So don’t hesitate to ask us questions. This is the ideal time to work through your concerns and make sure that you are prepared for your surgery and recovery. Your amazing transformation is just around the corner!

View Details

One myth that needs busting is the “bigger is better” myth. Some treat this as a rule of thumb when implant selection is discussed. Patients will say a version of “everyone wishes they had gone bigger” and “you don’t want to regret your decision because you went too small.” Bigger implants have their place, especially with certain body types or desired outcomes. But going bigger for bigger sake is at best a lazy approach. The goal for a natural and proportional breast augmentation is to choose the implant size that fits your body. It is that simple.

Why does this myth get passed around?There are a few reasons that this myth gets unneeded attention:

• For some, the anxiety of picking the “perfect” implant size leads them to default to the “bigger must be better” mentality. In reality, oversized implants are rarely the right choice and often lead to more regret down the line. The data shows that choosing an oversized implant puts you at a much higher risk for revision surgery in the future.
• The internet doesn’t help either. There are many examples of celebrities or women with notoriety who have larger implants. Its everywhere. This creates a feeling that this must be the norm and leads us to feel that going bigger must have some benefit.This is a false narrative and such extremes don’t translate well to most women’s bodies.
• A handful of our patients opt for a more full augmented look with slightly oversized breast implants. They look great! In reality the majority of women we see prefer a more proportional and natural breast shape. The reason why the larger augmentation group gets more attention is simple: it is more noticeable. Natural breast augmentation is often very subtle and therefore less noticeable, even by your friends and family.

Going a lot bigger is rarely better * In our clinic, very few patients request to go bigger, after the fact. In the past 10 years only 2 of our patients have asked to size up after their breast augmentation but we see women every week looking to downsize. This is where our expertise comes into play. * Implant removal/downsizing due to discomfort or changing preferences is far more common in our clinic. * Most women want reasonably sized breasts that look proportional – not conspicuously large in comparison to their whole body. Oversized implants can throw off your body balance. * We rarely see women over 50 years of age looking to upsize their implants. They invariably opt to go with smaller implants or even remove them.

Our advice when selecting an implant Choose the implant that fits your body type and breast shape. It shouldn’t matter if it is bigger or smaller than you initially thought you would want/need. Remember, oversized implants are difficult to manage and even harder to replace. Focus on how the implant will fit and enhance your breasts, rather than adjusting to the extremes. The middle or Goldilocks implant options almost always have higher satisfaction rates over time.

View Details

With breast augmentation, choosing the perfect implant during surgery is critical. This selection process is understandably confusing and considers many factors, not just the size of the implant. We use a systematic approach starting with your unique anatomy and builds with your aesthetic vision as the guide. This approach guarantees the most transformative results while staying true to your natural proportions.

The basics of breast implant selectionThe selection process itself is straightforward. We start with baseline measurements of your breasts and then we fine-tune our implant choices to find the perfect size, shape, and projection. There are a lot of variables we consider and your ideal implant will differ greatly from someone else. It is unique to you. Unless your best friend is also your identical twin the implant your best friend got with her surgery has no bearing on what you will select! This is how we narrow down the selection:

• Width of your breast: it is important to match your natural breast width if you want natural and proportional results. By measuring your breast width, we can then use that number as the preferred base diameter of your ideal implant. You should avoid going too wide or too narrow. Like Goldilocks with the Three Bears, the width has to be just right.
• Implant profile: Newer implants have lots of different profile options for a set base width. Profile just means how much the implant projects off a surface when it is laid flat. You can get low, moderate, and high-profile options. Some even have more options in between. As above, we start with a base width of an implant that matches your breast width. We then find the projection or profile that works for you. The more projection an implant has, the more augmented you will look after surgery.While less projecting implants will usually have more subtle natural results.
• Form factor: With silicone breast implants, the form factor matters. The form factor measures how well a silicone implant can hold its shape. The more cohesive and overfilled a silicone implant is, the more it will keep its shape without rippling. More form factor feels firmer and may not be as soft and mobile in the pocket. Your lifestyle and preferences help guide this selection. A more augmented appearing breast augmentation would prioritize choosing an implant with more form factor because it holds its shape better. An implant with less form factor would give you a more natural result and a softer-feeling breast after surgery.

Shape and size comparisonsImplant selection is an individualized process. Remember, it is much more likely that two women who opt for the same implant size, measured in cubic centimeters (cc), will need completely different implant dimensions. So the CC size of your implant (aka volume) is just the start. We then have to ensure the implant fits perfectly into your unique breast. Every patient is different so the selection process is truly bespoke! Take a look at this example. It breaks down how the same CC size implant can have widely different results depending on your body type:

• Patient A: 310cc implant with a wide base and less projecting profile
• Patient B: 310cc implant with a narrow base and highly projecting profile

Despite being identical in CC size, these implants would give very different results. Patient A has a wider chest to start, so the implant they selected would only have a subtle change after surgery. If you have a more broad body type like Patient A, you will see less of a transformation with a less projecting implant. The cup size would likely have a subtle change. In contrast, Patient B has a narrower chest. Therefore, a higher projecting implant would have a much more noticeable change after surgery. The cup size would likely increase significantly and the results would be much more noticeable than Patient A. The same-size implants can give two drastically different results. Check out the video above to see more comparisons. Amy does a great job breaking down the size and shape differences and how this can change the results.

Schedule your appointment In our office, we tailor your breast augmentation to you and only you. Come prepared to discuss your vision. Think about the size and shape of the breast that you want. Anything is possible so this is the time to dream a little. And don’t worry, we will help you pick your perfect implants, down to the millimeter. Book a consultation today so we can get started!

View Details

Your breast augmentation pre-operative appointment is a major milestone. At this appointment, we finalize your surgical plans, select your implants, create a care plan, and coordinate your day of surgery details. Good preparation is the key to success. Therefore, review the checklist below to make the most of your pre-op appointment and to help you get ready for your exciting transformation.

The pre-operative appointment breakdown Implant selection: We use implant sizers, placed in your bra, to help you visualize your results. Please wear or bring a stretchy form-fitting top to your appointment. Come prepared to discuss your aesthetic goals including the size, shape, and contour you want. We then use measurements of your breast including your breast width, to make sure our selection fits within your vision. Take a look at this blog article for more info on implant selection: Comparing Breast Implant Shapes and Sizes * Pre-op photos: The standard photography protocol includes a series of topless pre-op photos that we will use for your before and after comparisons. So be prepared to disrobe from the waist up. These photographs are needed for our pre-surgical analysis and essential to your medical records. * Health history: Be prepared to discuss your medical history again, including any prescriptions, supplements, or over-the-counter medications you take. We need to wrap around your health history one more time to make sure you are still a good candidate for elective surgery. * Important documents: We will confirm your e-prescriptions and you will be given pre and your post-operative instructions during this appointment. Your prescriptions will be sent to the pharmacy of your choice so make sure you have the name and address of your pharmacy. Our pre and post-operative instructions will include recommended dietary changes before surgery and limitations on activity after surgery. Carefully review all these directions with your caretaker before surgery. It is important to plan! * Informed consent: A lot of time during this appointment is spent reviewing the risks and benefits of breast augmentation surgery, aka the informed consent. Following this discussion, you will sign the consent paperwork. In our office this includes paperwork provided by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons and the implant manufacturer. It is our responsibility to make sure you fully comprehend all the details on these documents before signing. * Outstanding balance: Most offices require final payments at your pre-op appointment, assuming your surgical date has been confirmed and scheduled. So come prepared to pay your final balance. * The schedule: We will confirm the surgery date, location, and arrival time at this appointment. Double-check all the logistical details before leaving. Confusion about the expected arrival time to the surgical facility, the length of surgery itself, and when you need to get picked up after surgery can create a lot of avoidable stress. * Support: We encourage you to bring a trusted friend, family member or caretaker to your pre-operative appointment. They can ask supplementary questions you might not think to ask. They also will be more relaxed and helpful after surgery if they become familiar with your post-operative care plan. * Your questions:* Make a list of questions or discussion points ahead of time. Questions usually about implant specifics, incision site options, and recovery expectations. Refer back to your list to make sure all of this gets addressed during this appointment.

You are almost there so it is time to get excited!The preoperative appointment is designed to check all the boxes before surgery. It should give you the confidence you need to move ahead and a safe space to get all your questions answered. So stay proactive as we want your voice to be heard! Most importantly, your new breasts await!

View Details

Getting started on your breast augmentation journey can be confusing. Besides finding an experienced surgeon, it can be hard to know where to begin. Most feel a sense of pressure to figure everything out beforehand, even before being evaluated. Which breast implant do I need? What is the best surgical approach? Saline or silicone? Do I want a more or less projecting implant? Although important, these decisions come later in the process. Taking time to think about your aesthetic goals first is the most important factor. Bigger? Lifted? More Projection? Better shape? Fuller? We offer many ways to improve your breast appearance, so thinking about them from your POV can make your consultation much more constructive. To help you sort through the options before coming into our office, take a look at this Q and A with Dr. Martin. In it, he discusses what you should and shouldn’t know before your first consultation and the process to select your perfect implant.

Question: As a board-certified plastic surgeon who has performed hundreds of breast augmentations, what would you say to patients who feel overwhelmed about selecting their perfect implant before their consultation?

Dr. Martin: I completely understand the instinct to have your implant details locked in before your first appointment. However, the best way to pick a breast implant for your surgery is through a collaborative process, and this includes your surgeon. There are so many factors that I consider when selecting the perfect implant for my patients. Your anatomy, tissue quality, health history, and aesthetic goals, to name a few. Scoping in the specifics of an implant you want, including shape and size, is good for discussion purposes but isn’t always helpful during the first evaluation. That decision is made further down the line.

Question: Take a moment and walk us through what you can expect at your first breast augmentation consultation in your office.

Dr. Martin: In this first meeting, we focus on getting to know you and your goals. We have an open and supportive discussion on what you envision for your breasts and what I see from your exam. We will also educate you on all your surgical options. However, we avoid hard numbers at this point. Together, we’ll decide what type of implant suits your body proportions and frame. There’s no need to feel pressure about selecting the exact dimensions or sizes during the initial consultation. We will leave it a little open-ended.

Question: What if a patient is adamant that she MUST have a specific implant? For example, what if they want the same implant as their friend got with their surgery?

Dr. Martin: If someone feels strongly about shape and size, that’s okay. I like those discussions. It gives me a starting point to educate them on their anatomy while incorporating their aesthetic goals into this discussion. Interestingly, breast implant dimensions don’t easily translate to a desired outcome. For example, breast implants are categorized by their volume (cc), not cup size, which is industry-specific. But implant volume does not correlate well with your cup size. And cup size is how most women think about their breasts. Cup sizes vary so much from person to person, it makes it nearly impossible to pair that up with a specific implant volume. For example, if you take two women with similar cup sizes and place the same implant, the outcomes are often drastically different depending on their breast and chest anatomy. It is not a stretch, in this scenario, that one woman could end up with a C cup and the other could end up with a D cup just because their chest and breast anatomy differs. Therefore, my goal is for our patients to understand and ultimately trust the selection process. Taking the time to work through this decision is critical.

Question: When DO you help patients select their final implant size?
Dr. Martin: During surgery pre-operative appointment we zero in on the implant dimensions that are optimized for your body. This is a multi-step process that uses photographic comparisons with similar body type patients, real comparisons with different implants placed in your bra, and even other types of imaging. We have a lot of resources on my website that go into this further. But just know that we spend a lot of time with you at that appointment making sure that this selection is 100% correct.

Your consultation is just around the corner Think about what you want for your breasts instead of fixating on implant shapes and sizes. Imagine the best version of yourself. Our process of selecting a breast implant is comprehensive so you can relax! With our help, we will select the perfect implant for you. See you at your consultation!

View Details

Now that you’ve made that first step – it’s time to prepare for your upcoming breast augmentation consultation. This is an exciting and important step along your transformation journey. To make you feel more comfortable with our process, let’s walk you through what to expect during your initial appointment.

Your first consultation breakdownWe created the checklist below to help you prepare. This itemizes everything we need to know from you, reviews what will be discussed and goes over what you can expect if you decide to move forward:

• What we need to know from you: Come prepared to discuss your medical history, including all current medications, supplements, and vitamins. It’s easy to forget things, so have this list ready. Be sure to fill out your online medical history beforehand and don’t forget to include:
  • Any allergies
  • Your previous surgeries
  • If you or your family have a history of breast cancer
  • Your birth control pills & other hormonal medications
• The exam and key discussion points: A breast exam gives us a baseline idea of your breasts, including their size and shape. It also allows us to assess your skin and tissue quality, including any pre-existing droopiness that would require a lift procedure. We can then make specific recommendations about the type, size, and preferred placement your ideal implant. It also allows us to figure out the incision location that fits you. This is what you should expect:
  • To have a breast exam
  • To discuss both of our aesthetic visions
  • An overview of our recommended implant options
  • A breakdown of the ideal approach
• What to expect moving forward: We will discuss the step-by-step process for the day of surgery, review the anesthesia options, go over our surgical technique, and work through what you can expect during recovery. This discussion will include:
  • An overview of the surgical process from pre-op through recovery
  • A review of how the surgery is completed
  • An honest conversation about recovery
• Potential Risks & Complications: While complications are rare, we will have an open discussion about potential risks with breast augmentation. We will touch on the risk of infection, capsular contracture, implant rupture, rippling, and the need for revision surgery. This is what we will review with you:
  • The potential risks and complications of this surgery
  • Our approach to handling unwanted outcomes
  • How we avoid these issues in the first place
• Cost Quote: Our team will provide a detailed quote which outlines the costs for your surgery. This includes an easy-to-read itemized list of the surgical fees, anesthesia fees, operating room fees, and the implants themselves. You will receive:
  • A full list of the fully itemized fees
  • Tentative scheduling options
  • Unpressured time to ask questions with our staff
• Before & After Photos: We have an extensive library of before & after photos of our patients with all different body types. Looking at actual results of patients is a great way to help you figure out what you want. We can then:
  • Have an open discussion about your goals and expectations
  • Address any sconcerns you may have about the outcome

Any Other Questions! Please come with any other questions you have about breast augmentation surgery or plastic surgery in general. Our goal is for you to not only love your results, but to have an educational, and rewarding experience under our care. We are dedicated to your empowerment!

We are excited to see you in our officeThis surgery is incredibly personal. It is crucial that you feel comfortable enough to ask questions and voice any concerns. We want you to feel confident about this life-changing decision. So come prepared and together we will develop a customized plan that gives you the most body-positive results.

View Details

If you are thinking about breast augmentation, you probably have questions about recovery. How long will I be out of commission? What are my limitations? When will I feel like myself again? How much will I hurt afterward? Thinking about recovery is important, especially with this surgery. It has some special considerations and pain and swelling is one of them. There is no question that your breast will feel swollen, sore, and even painful, days after surgery. But the belief that breast augmentation is extremely painful is just not reality with our patients. Intense pain after breast augmentation is rare. When present, it is very short lived and almost always limited to the first few days. After that, pain improves quickly and is very manageable. Therefore, to get you some answers, this article breaks down what to expect for post-op pain and swelling. It also gives you some tips to get back on your feet as quickly as possible.

Day-to-day pain expectations While the first 2-3 days will be the most uncomfortable, pain levels decrease quickly afterward. On a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the worst possible pain, most patients rate their pain between a 5 to 7 in the first few days. Interestingly, non breast post-op pain, primarily in the back and shoulder region, is a common complaint. Keeping your arms in a guarded position can cause a compensatory strain on muscles in these areas. Here is the breakdown:

• Days 1-3: Moderate pain (7/10 at most) is managed with prescription pain and muscle-relaxing medications. Your breasts will look and feel very swollen.
• Days 4-7: Sharper pain is replaced by soreness around your breasts, nipples and along your incisions. Swelling still persists and may worsen.
• Weeks 2+: You will have very little sharp breast pain, if any. Soreness can persist, especially with activity. Swelling will start to decrease but often fluctuates day to day.

A few important factors to consider Since pain tolerance differs from person to person so will your experience after surgery. For this reason, it can be hard to predict how you will feel. There are some key factors during and after surgery that can affect your post-op pain score. In our office, we address each one of these, ensuring that your recovery is manageable:

• Surgical technique: A traumatic, lengthy surgery often increases pain. An efficient, less-aggressive surgery will minimize pain and make your recovery shorter. This is why it is so important for you to select a board-certified plastic surgeon who has expertise in this surgery.
• Local anesthetics: These are injected at the time of surgery and will be helpful for the first 24 to 48 hours post op. You may also have the option of longer lasting regional blocks. Once you are at home, muscle relaxants and pain medications will manage pain for the first week of recovery.
• Implant placement: Depending on whether your implant is placed over or under your chest muscle, postoperative discomfort and soreness will vary. In general, above-the-muscle placement usually has less overall discomfort and swelling.
• Activity restrictions: Not being able to use your arms fully after surgery can be frustrating but it helps reduce post-op discomfort.The secondary effect of these limitations is soreness and even muscle spasms around your shoulder, upper back and even neck. This is usually short-lived and can be managed with muscle relaxants.
• Recovery boosters: Ice, head elevation, positional sleeping pillows, slow walking, nutritional supplementation, cryotherapy and even hyperbaric oxygen treatments can all reduce post operative pain and swelling. We will include some or all of these options in your recovery plan.

More on the secondary shoulder, neck, and back discomfort As we noted, discomfort of your upper back, shoulders, and neck are common after surgery. Since your arm range of motion is limited (think T-Rex arms), you tend to compensate by unnaturally lifting your shoulders. Also, with breast pain, you tend to roll your shoulders forward and inward, in a guarding motion. These reflexive movements lead to secondary muscle tightness and in some cases spasms. Massage and muscle relaxants are helpful here. Focusing on proper movement mechanics and body posture is also key. Just FYI, your activity will be restricted, especially with arm usage, for the first 4 weeks:

• Weeks 1-2: Arm mobility and lifting will be limited. Specifically, you will not be able to put your elbows over your shoulders or lift greater than 8 lbs. This is when you should focus on rest, recovery, and easy walks.
• Weeks 3-4: You may resume light activity but there will still be limitations on lifting anything heavy. Longer walks are encouraged.
• Weeks 5-6: You will gradually increase arm use, and mobility. You will also be cleared to increase the intensity of your workouts with some limitations on lifting. A comfortable weight depends on your progress.
• Week 6-7+: At this point, you will likely be cleared for full activity without restrictions. The time it takes you to get to this point depends on how quickly you reach your recovery milestones.

Swelling is an issue for everyoneYou should expect a lot of swelling in the first 24-72 hours after surgery, especially when your implant is placed under the chest muscle. For the first week, it will fluctuate and may worsen with activity or as the day progresses. You will start to turn the corner by the 2nd week and from there swelling will resolve quickly. Patience is key and it can take up to 3-6 months for the swelling to fully resolve. Here is what to expect:

• Weeks 1-2: Significant swelling and possibly some bruising
• Weeks 3-4: Noticeably less swelling with little bruising
• Weeks 6-8: Continued slow improvements to baseline

Swelling itself can cause your breast to feel sore and achy. Therefore, managing it efficiently is an easy way to speed up your recovery. There are some really helpful ways to reduce swelling. At Least a few of these should be incorporated into your recovery plan:

• Cold therapy including ice packs offers the easiest way to reduce swelling in the first week
• Gentle mobility and walking helps prevent stiffness and encourages lymphatic drainage
• Sleep with your head elevated and slightly propped up on pillows to encourage drainage of the swelling fluid while you sleep
• After a week, cryotherapy and hyperbaric oxygen offer more advanced methods of reducing swelling. You must be cleared for these treatments.

A quick note on the emotional recoveryMany of our patients report feeling a little emotionally drained and frustrated around the 3rd and 4th weeks of recovery. Once you are starting to feel better you naturally want to get back to your normal routine. But you can’t. Even 3 to 4 weeks after surgery, you still have some limitations on your movements, especially if your implant was placed under your chest muscle. It is important to focus on a positive mindset to counteract the feelings of frustration and even remorse that are common at this time. Trust the healing process and give yourself space to fully heal. Good things are yet to come!

Manage the pain, discomfort, soreness, and achiness like an expertYou now have been fully versed in the important recovery milestones following breast augmentation. As we discussed, the pain, discomfort, soreness, swelling and achiness are all manageable. They are primarily limited to the first few weeks after surgery and then quickly resolve. We also gave you a few good tips to make your recovery easier. It is important that you keep communication open with our office and please don’t hesitate to ask questions. Breast augmentation is a doable surgery that relies on preparation. So start planning!

View Details

You’ve made it through the initial breast augmentation consultation and you scheduled your surgery. The big day is just a few weeks away! Woohoo! While it’s normal to feel a sense of nervous excitement, you will also need to start preparing for the after. To help you along this journey, check out our recovery preparation guide. It will get you ready both mentally and logistically ready for the healing phase that follows your upcoming surgery.

Everything you need to get done before surgeryPreparation is the best way to make your recovery a breeze. Below is a comprehensive list of what you need to do before surgery. Checking these boxes will pay huge dividends after surgery:

• Review post-op instructions thoroughly: The post-operative instructions detail how you can successfully recover. This includes instructions on caring for your incision, guidance on your medications, restrictions on your activity, and things to look out for. We recommend that you read through these instructions with your caretaker and discuss any questions or concerns you have with them. It really is important to know the warning signs to watch for that require our input. Remember, no concern is too small.
• Plan for your first post-op appointment: You will likely have your first post-op appointment scheduled within a week of surgery. Make sure your caretaker knows when this is scheduled so you can plan your transportation, to and from our office. You will most likely be on prescription pain meds and not able to drive. Also, ride sharing services are not recommended when you are still on prescription pain medications for safety purposes.
• Get prescriptions filled: Pain medication and antibiotics will most likely be prescribed so make sure you fill these beforehand. Don’t wait until after surgery! You will need them right when you get home from the procedure itself.
• Purchase the recommended items: We will recommend special items including bras, ice packs, pillows, or other aids to support your healing. It is important that you order anything you need in advance and make sure everything else is on hand. We highly recommend investing in a structured pillow or cushion system for sleeping upright and taking pressure off your chest.
• Organize Your Home: It is important to plan for a period of limited mobility, especially with the use of your arms. Therefore, move your frequently-used items around your living space within easy to reach areas. Even ordinary tasks can be challenging after surgery. Place dishes, toiletries, clothes, chargers, remotes, and anything else you use at waist level. This avoids having you painfully reach up or down for items.
• Set up a recovery station: Put all your post-operative supplies nearby, in a readily accessible location. This will include anything and everything you need in the first few days after surgery. Be creative!
• Prep easy meals: Stock up on frozen meals, packaged foods or healthier meal prep options in advance. You won’t want to cook so this will make a huge difference in the first week of recovery.
• Plan to be comfortable: Loose-fitting clothes and slip-on shoes are a must. As your swelling and discomfort subsides, you’ll want flowy button-downs, zip-up tops, and stretchy bottoms with sandals, slides, or slippers. Just think cozy and comfortable!
• Schedule help: Line up your friends and family to help. They will need to drive you to appointments, assist with life tasks like laundry, child or pet care. If they are not staying with you, it is important that they check in with you periodically. Make sure they also have our contact information also.

Surgery is Just Around the Corner – Are You Ready?It’s normal to feel nervous about what is to come, but try and focus on the excitement! Remind yourself why you chose this surgery and all the benefits it will bring. Preparation will help ease your anxiety so that when the big day comes, everything will be in place for your recovery. And you will be enjoying your new breasts before you know it!

View Details

Deciding to undergo breast augmentation is exciting. This less-than-an-hour surgery gives you an immediate change with results that can last a long time. Once you make the decision to move ahead your mind will at some point start to wonder about the recovery process. How much pain will I have? How long will I be down and out? How do I prepare? What are my limitations? When can I return to work? When can I work out? Even though the first few days are challenging, the overall recovery is very doable. With the right preparation and care, you can speed through the hard parts and get back to baseline in no time. Therefore, to help you prepare and plan, we put together our guide to breast augmentation recovery. It focuses on the pivotal first two months after surgery which have the most restrictions. Using this as a resource during recovery, will help you get through the hard parts, including working through the unique limitations that you have with this surgery.

The first week is manageable but a little intense After surgery, plan to take up to a week off from non physical work duties and make arrangements for help around the house. There will be some difficult but manageable moments of discomfort, especially within the first few days after surgery. Feeling tired and sore is normal. Swelling is expected, especially right after surgery. So don’t be alarmed if your breasts look a bit large and distorted. Here is what you should expect:

• Your breasts will feel tender and “achy”
• Your chest muscles and incisions will feel the most painful
• Your nipples often feel more sensitive
• Your breasts may look uneven, swollen, and/or very high on your chest

During this early healing phase, you’ll need some assistance around the house for tasks like:

• Laundry and vacuuming
• Dog walking and waste cleanup
• Reaching for objects
• Childcare and driving

You will use “T-rex” or “crocodile” arms during this first week. In other words, you will always keep your elbows close to your body. This keeps you from engaging your chest muscles, which is not great for healing. And that movement can be painful! As your range of motion will be limited, keep necessary items within easy and short reach. Plan this out beforehand. We also want you to concentrate on ambulating and gentle movements, especially slow walking to stimulate your circulation. This promotes healing and reduces swelling and stiffness. Implant massage is usually not recommended in the first few weeks after surgery. Massaging your implant is helpful, but it is important to ensure that the incisions are somewhat healed before applying pressure to your chest. This usually starts about 2-3 weeks after surgery. Here are a few other tips for the first week:

• Avoid overactivity and sleep slightly inclined by adding an extra pillow
• Make it a goal to switch to over-the-counter pain medication ASAP
• Wearing a stretchy supportive bra 24/7 is beneficial
• Muscle relaxants are very helpful especially if your implants are under the muscle

During weeks 2 to 4, you should start feeling better You should feel much more like yourself around week 2, especially when it comes to pain, achiness, and baseline discomfort. If you have a nonphysical job, you can return to in-person work. For more physical work duties, consider taking at least 2 or more weeks off to prioritize healing. During weeks 2 to 4, you can independently manage most light daily tasks like showering, self-care, dishes, cooking, etc. You will also be able to drive as long as you are off all prescription pain medications and muscle relaxants for 48 hours. Your breast appearance will change as your implants settle into place. Remember, there will still be moderate swelling during this time and you should expect that your breasts will be around 20%-30% larger than the final results due to this swelling. It can take up to 3-6 months for the swelling to fully resolve. Staying on top of pain management with over-the-counter pain medication and keeping up with gentle walks is key. Here is what you should expect around this time:

• Your chest will feel less tender and your breasts will feel more supple
• Your breasts will begin to look less swollen and bruised
• Nipple sensation will start to slowly return to normal
• Your incisions may look redder and raised while healing

As your energy returns, ease back into non-strenuous routines at your own pace. You can likely drive, have sex, and go out to eat, depending on how you feel. Yet still refrain from vigorous activity that stress or compress your chest. These activities include:

• Strength training of the upper body and arms
• ROM exercises like Yoga and Pilates
• Intense housework: washing windows, moving furniture, deep cleaning

It is around this time that you will start scar care and implant massage, as recommended by our care team. Also, it is important to report any unusual symptoms like redness, new onset swelling, and notable pain to our office. This may be a sign that you need to be evaluated sooner rather than later. Here are some helpful expectations during this time of recovery that you can use to plan ahead:

• It is reasonable to plan on returning to work within 2 weeks but with some physical restrictions
• You should be able to drive yourself and take on the primary responsibilities of child care if your pain is controlled with over-the-counter pain meds
• Depending on your progress, you will start light implant massage around this time to ensure your implant pocket stays soft and supple
• You will likely be cleared for limited lower body exercises as long as you keep your heart rate and blood pressure low and can do so without any pain

You are on the home stretch during weeks 4-8Although you will feel much more like your self after the first month, you will not be at your baseline. This is the ramp-up time and it is important to listen to your body. If an activity causes you pain, stop what you are doing and adjust. Focus on increasing your movements without overdoing it. Remember, you are still healing internally, even if everything looks good on the outside. So patience and care are still important. This is what you should expect and plan for:

• You will continue to increase your activity and start to return to your normal exercise routine
• It is important continue implant massage daily, per your doctor’s direction, to keep the implant pocket loose and mobile
• It is unlikely that you will be able to fully return to activities that stress your chest, especially if the implant was placed under the muscle. This may take months to return to normal

Nearing the end of the second month, your breasts should be finding their final shape and feel. Residual soreness and tightness should be very limited but it can surprisingly return at time over the next few months. At this point, you should be able to return to your full active lifestyle, including:

• All exercises and sports, including weight training
• Non-restricted movements, especially of the arms
• Unhindered intimacy or chest straining activities

Preparation is key to the best recoveryIt is only natural to wonder about recovery from breast augmentation, especially when planning for the first few months. Use this guide as a useful resource during your recovery journey. Refer to it when planning for your surgery and periodically glance at it afterwards to make sure you are on track. Before you know it, you will have 2 months under your belt and you will be enjoying your new and improved post-surgery self. Now start preparing!

View Details

So you made the exciting decision to move ahead with breast augmentation surgery and you want to prepare for your recovery. Congratulations on making this decision, it is very exciting! You should use this article as a resource in preparing for your recovery. Remember, breast augmentation will transform how you see your breasts, but prepping for your recovery is the best way to enjoy them as quickly as possible. With a little preparation, some focused planning, and attention to self-care, you’ll sail through the first four weeks. And before you know it, you will be enjoying the perks of your new breasts.

The first two weeks are the most important Planning for the first two weeks after surgery is the biggest part of making your recovery as stress free as possible. Here are a few things you will have to organize on your end:

• Plan for downtime that includes limitations on normal activities like driving.
• You will be asked to avoid physically demanding tasks including housework and cleaning.
• You should have helpers, friends or family lined up for your responsibilities like child or pet care, laundry, meal prep and vacuuming. These activities all use your arms!
• Since your range of motion will be decreased, it is important to set up a recovery station with essentials like your phone, remote, and medications within reach of your recovery area.

Lifestyle and work expectations in the first month Getting back to your normal routine after breast augmentation can vary from person to person but in general, this is what you should expect and plan for:

• Non-strenuous work can resume within 1 week. Physical work duties can take several weeks and even a month to restart.
• Driving is usually permitted after 1 week, if your pain is controlled and you have been off prescription pain meds for at least 48 hours. The quicker you switch to over-the-counter pain meds, the sooner you can return to your normal driving routine.
• In the first 2 weeks, taking multiple short walks will improve your circulation and decrease your swelling. It’s the easiest and simplest way to get back to your baseline.
• Restarting intimacy can vary, but it can typically resume after 2 weeks with precautions and only if it is comfortable for you.

Caring For Your ImplantsAfter the initial recovery, your implants will require maintenance and baseline care. Here is what you should plan for right after surgery and beyond:

• Avoid aggressive upper body exercising, especially when it involves using your arm strength, for at least 4-6 weeks after surgery. Think CrossFit, Pilates and even Yoga. This is important as it can avoid a lot of issues like prolonged swelling, new onset pain, and even displacement of your implant.
• After 4 weeks, you should get in the habit of performing regular breast exams that include implant massage. This will help you stay familiar with how your breasts normally feel after surgery. It will also keep the implant pocket soft and supple, which is important to having a natural looking outcome.

The 4 most important recovery tipsIn summary, here are the most important things to work into your recovery plan. If you can follow only these four recommendations then you will have most of your recovery work covered. Make sure these boxes are checked before and after surgery:

• Prepare beforehand by putting frequently used items within close reach
• Line up family or friends to assist with daily tasks for 1-2 weeks
• Walk a lot and limit the use of prescription pain meds to the first 1-2 weeks
• Avoid vigorous upper body movement with “T-Rex arms” restrictions

Recovery: the best part is when it is finishedWith a little TLC for your mind and body, the recovery period will pass quickly. You’ve got this! Reach out to us with any other preparation questions. We are here to support you along this journey to transform your breasts!

View Details

If you are considering breast augmentation, you probably have questions about the scars. Scars are a common concern for anyone undergoing cosmetic surgery. In our clinic, questions about scars have four themes:

1. Length
2. Location
3. Healing time
4. Visibility

This article breaks down these four concerns while giving you a comprehensive guide to breast augmentation scars. This type of information is important for you to understand before you move forward with surgery and it will allow you to make a more educated decision on the surgical approach.

Length of the scarThe length of the scar will depend on the type of implant, saline or silicone, used for your surgery. Placing saline implants requires a shorter scar, while placing silicone implants requires slightly longer scars. Here is the breakdown:

• Saline implants: These implants are filled during surgery, after being placed under your breasts. Therefore the incision for insertion is relatively short, between 1 to 1.5 inches.
• Silicone implants: As they come pre filled, the incision required will be slightly longer for insertion. The length is between 1.5 to 2 inches.

Location of the scar There are three options for placement of your breast augmentation scar – within your armpit, around your areola, and at the base of your breast. Each has its benefits. Our preferred approach depends on your exam and overall goals. But, equally important, is having your input. You should have a say in deciding on the scar location. It is a personal choice. So let’s explore the pros and cons of the 3 different approaches:

In your armpit* It has the clear benefit of not putting the scar on the breast itself. * In this location, the scar is visible with certain types of clothing. Think sleeveless tops or dresses. In other words, it is harder to cover. * It also puts the incision father away from the important structures that are addressed during surgery.

Around your areola * It has the benefit of having better access to important structures than the armpit incision and it is easily combined with a breast lift procedure. * Although the scar fades well over time, it may remain slightly visible, so you’ll see it when looking in the mirror. * There’s a higher risk of contaminating the implant with this type of incision since you’re operating closer to the milk ducts of the breasts.

Base of your breasts* This is the gold standard approach. It gives us the most surgical options, with the best visibility and access to important structures. * This scar will also fade well over time but may remain slightly visible. It won’t be visible when looking in the mirror while standing. * Due to its location, this scar can sometimes be irritated by bras, especially ones with more under support.

The healing time and visibility If you go to an experienced plastic surgeon, breast augmentation scars should not be a concern. They will appear thin and symmetrical. Most importantly, they fade drastically in the first 12 months, after which they should only be visible in direct light. It is a reasonable trade from our standpoint. Having a dramatic improvement in the appearance of your breast outweighs the drawbacks of having a minimally perceptible, 2 inch scar, hidden around your breast or armpit.

The bottom line on breast augmentation scarsHere are the factors that help us decide which approach would be the best fit for you:

• Your implant type: If you chose a saline implant, this may lend well to an armpit or areola approach. If you choose a silicone implant, especially larger ones, the base of the breast incision works best.
• Your anatomy: Your unique anatomy will also guide us with incision choice. For example, if your areola is smaller, the around-the-areola approach may not work well with silicone implants. it would be hard to fit.
• Your preference: This has the biggest bearing on our approach and where the ultimate scar is located

There is no doubt that the base of the breast incision in breast augmentation offers us the most flexibility. But the other approaches have their benefits too. If you specifically

want moderate to large volume silicone implants (greater than 500cc for example), the armpit and around the areola approaches have a few limitations:

• The incisions required will be larger and thus more visible due to the location
• The dissection can be more difficult with these approaches making the placement harder
• Releasing the muscle adequately is slightly more challenging, increasing the risk of your implant riding high

Understanding your preference for the scar location is critical to helping us figure out our surgical approach. As we offer all three options, we will let you know if these factors line up with your preference. And if it doesn’t, we will suggest an alternative. It is that simple. But no matter the approach, you should expect that these scars heal quickly and will be nearly imperceptible by 12 months. Therefore, don’t put too much emphasis on their appearance. Most importantly, please reach out with any questions regarding breast augmentation scars. We are here to help you make the most informed decision.

View Details

If you are considering breast augmentation, the approach you take for the placement of your implant is one of the biggest decisions you will make. Specifically, using an above or below-the-chest muscle approach can and will have a huge effect on your results, almost as much as which implant you select. So, it is important to select a surgeon who tailors this approach to your anatomy and overall aesthetic and life goals.

Two main options for placement of your implant Placing your implant under the muscle requires a slightly more invasive procedure but typically yields a better shape. It also works better when it comes to breast imaging tests like mammograms. However, placing the implant over the muscle may result in less immediate postoperative pain while still offering satisfying aesthetic results. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each:

Subglandular (above the muscle):* More natural appearance since your implant has room to settle and slide down naturally, unrestricted by your chest muscle and the deeper soft tissue * Reduced postoperative discomfort since this is a less invasive approach and your chest muscle is not disturbed * Avoid an “animation” aka “window shading deformity” where your implants shift or distort oddly when you flex your chest muscle

However, subglandular placement also comes with some notable drawbacks:

• Higher risk of capsular contracture, aka scar tissue, which tightens around your implant leading to the hardening of your breast and visible asymmetry
• Since the implant is closer to your skin, your implant will be more noticeable, which in some cases can lead to visible rippling and wrinkling

Submuscular (below the muscle):* Placing the implant underneath your chest muscle will reduce the risk of capsular contracture, aka scar tissue, forming around your implant * The risk of having noticeable implant show-through after your surgery is much lower, especially when it comes to visible rippling and wrinkling * Provides more coverage and support for your implant, especially in the upper half of the breast, above your nipple and areola

The tradeoffs with submuscular placement include:

• Immediate postoperative pain and achiness can increase, including a risk of chest muscle spasms in the first week or two after surgery
• Disrupting the muscles means that you will have a longer time to return to normal activities, including the gym and with upper body exercises

Chose the approach that is right for youBoth of these options have compelling pros and cons. But which approach is right for you? It is important to make the choice that fits your body and lifestyle. A majority of our patients choose a below-the-muscle approach. They like the idea of having a more youthful breast shape, with less implant show and a lower risk of scar tissue formation after surgery. But, that doesn’t mean that some of our patients don’t prefer the more natural results from an above-the-muscle approach with the bonus of slightly less recovery. And some of our body-building patients prefer this approach since it doesn’t disrupt the chest muscle which can be important for their performance. As the reasons can vary, it is important to educate yourself on these options before going through with surgery. If you have questions or want to discuss your unique needs, please reach out. We are here to help explain the technical details of this surgery, especially when it comes to our approach to implant placement, in an easy-to-understand way. We will guide you through this decision and ensure that you feel confident with your choice and satisfied after surgery.

View Details

Many patients that we see feel self-conscious about their bodies, especially their breasts. Too small, the sizes don’t match up, they look deflated and saggy, it is loose or they just don’t fit my body are just a few of the concerns we hear. Even though the concerns vary, the feeling of wanting a change is universal. In our office, we have a simple motto: you should love your breasts! This is our ethos and we are here to help. If you feel this way, the first step is to decide if breast augmentation is right for you. But how do you know if it is worth it? This surgery will give you a boost but is it right for you? Take a look at all the ways breast augmentation can make a difference to see if it is a good fit.

Breast augmentation: highlighting the benefitsBreast augmentation is an amazing surgery that gives you an instantaneous change. But there are factors to consider when deciding if it is right for you. The cost of the procedure, the intensity of the immediate recovery, and the likelihood of having more surgery in the future are a few factors that must be included in your calculation. But in most cases, the benefits outweigh the negatives. To help you make this decision, here is a highlight of the benefits:

• Instant gratification: The results are instant with breast implants. Once they are placed, you will see a visible difference in your breast size and shape right away. It is an immediate confidence booster!
• Check a box: For many women, their breast’s appearance causes them frustration. Breast augmentation offers a definitive and long-lasting solution by increasing fullness and improving the contour. No more feeling self-conscious!
• Lasting results: After this surgery, your new breast size and shape can last for years. While you may eventually need replacement surgery down the line, breast augmentation offers a longer-term solution. Enjoy it for the long haul!
• Customizable: You can truly customize your look by choosing a specific implant size, shape, and profile. This allows you to tailor the results to your body and most importantly, your personal goals. The options are endless!
• Simple Recovery: While the immediate recovery can be intense, it is short-lived. You should expect some tenderness, swelling, and limitations on your activity but most are back to baseline within a few weeks. The results make a little short-term discomfort worthwhile!

The breast augmentation difference We feel that loving the way your breasts look is important. With a surgery that takes less than one hour, you can in a small way, restore the joy you have in your body and give you a renewed sense of confidence. For the right patient, this surgery can make the biggest difference. We would love to discuss if this surgery is right for you so schedule a telehealth or in-person appointment with our office. If you can’t make it to Denver, please ensure you see a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in these procedures. With the right implant selection and care, breast augmentation can give you the breasts that you want and most importantly that you deserve!

View Details

The emotional and physical toll that pregnancy and breastfeeding take on your body, especially your breast, is significant. Over the years, we have helped hundreds of moms rejuvenate their breasts with breast augmentation. It has an amazing ability to boost your confidence, often when you, a mom, need it the most. So for all the moms out there, we want to help you along this journey. To get started, take a look at this Plastic Surgeon’s Post-Baby Breasts Treatment Guide**.

The 3 reasons you have Post Baby Breasts (PBB)Educating yourself is the first step in making a meaningful change. Motherhood is one of life’s greatest gifts but it doesn’t come without its challenges. PBB is very real and extremely common. A majority of moms we see in our office have notable deflation and sagginess that define PBB. But we have answers. So, to get you started on a more positive path, let’s first break down what causes PBB. Did you know that PBB is caused by three important factors? Reviewing these will help you better understand how we approach breast surgery after pregnancy:

• Stretched ligaments: Milk production and weight gain around pregnancy, not not enlarge your breasts, they stretch the internal structural bands (aka the Cooper’s ligaments). These strength bands, along with your breast skin, maintain your breast shape. No amount of chest exercises or skin treatments after pregnancy can tighten them enough to put the genie back in the bottle. These changes are most often irreversible.
• More fat: Your hormones change after pregnancy and with age. One consequence of this change is that your youthful breast tissue is slowly replaced by less structural fat. More fat in your breasts means less support. But what does this mean for you? After pregnancy, breasts will appear less defined as the fat percentage increases. And these changes are worsened, not improved, with weight loss. This is especially true in the upper part of the breast.
• Skin changes: Whole body swelling, breast engorgement, and weight changes, all stretch your skin with pregnancy. And as the skin of your breasts stretches past the point of no return, it is structurally altered. Usually permanently. What this means for you, is a more saggy and deflated breast appearance, often with stretch marks, and enlargement of your areolas.

Breast augmentation: 3 ways it helps with PBBBreast augmentation is a transformative procedure that offers a counter-balance to your PBB changes. From deflation, size concerns, and even contour issues, appropriately selected and expertly placed breast implants can turn your mommy breasts into something much more. And the results are often dramatic. But since breast augmentation alone isn’t enough in some cases, here are the PBB changes that it is good at treating by itself:

• Deflation: If you have deflated or uneven breasts, it can be frustrating. Breast augmentation alone offers a powerful solution by increasing the fullness of your breasts. It offers an instantaneous change that is amazingly effective. No more feeling self-conscious!
• Size: The size of your breasts is truly customizable with breast implants. By choosing a specific implant size and projection, we can tailor the results to your body. This adjustable approach guarantees that your personal goals can be achieved, especially for your body’s symmetry and overall proportion. The options are endless!
• Contour: Improving the overall shape of your breasts after pregnancy is where breast implants can make a dramatic difference. Strategically placed above or below the muscle, implants not only fill in your breast but also restore the shape. This is especially true in the upper part of your breasts, above the nipple and areola. It’s a full breast transformation!

Breast augmentation: 3 ways it may not fully address PBBBreast augmentation alone will not lift or remove sagging skin, remove excess breast tissue, or reposition your droopy nipple and areolas after pregnancy and breastfeeding. Remember, the primary job of an implant is to restore your breast volume and contour. Therefore, with PBB, a breast lift or reduction may be necessary to reshape and lift your breasts while simultaneously improving support.

• Lifting: Breasts sag after pregnancy for all the reasons we discussed previously. Therefore, adding a breast lift to a breast augmentation is often necessary. These results are remarkably transformative when these two procedures are combined but it will increase the scope and costs of the surgery.
• Reduction: A common complaint after pregnancy is that there is too much breast tissue, especially in the lower and outer parts of the breasts. A breast lift or reduction can remove this excess breast tissue while simultaneously reshaping the breast. It is also easily combined with breast augmentation, which will improve the overall contour, especially in the upper part of the breasts. It’s a win-win as you remove the heavy volume below and add some above.
• Repositioning: One of the biggest complaints with PBB is the malpositioning of the nipple and areola. That’s just a fancy way to say that after pregnancy, they point down rather than rebound to a perky pre-pregnancy position. Breast augmentation alone will not lift your nipple and areola. True lifting can only be accomplished by adding on a breast lift or reduction procedure.

Is breast augmentation the answer to PBB?Breast augmentation is the answer for most of the issues we see with PBB. It increases the fullness of your breast while dialing in your size and contour with fairly quick surgery with instantaneous results. But it does have limitations. Sagginess, excess tissue, and drooping of your nipple and areola will all require the addition of a breast lift or reduction. This will increase the scope of the surgery but will also make the overall results more transformative. If you are struggling with PBB and are searching for a change, schedule an appointment with our office today. We would love to help you get started on this journey of moving forward, and giving back what pregnancy took away: your beautiful breasts.

View Details

We want you to be confident about your implant selection, especially the type of implant you choose. Therefore, we asked Dr. Martin a few questions about saline and silicone implants. Check out his answers to get a better understanding of the pros and cons of each type.

Comparing and contrasting implants with Dr. MartinThe saline versus silicone breast implant debate is confusing. If you are considering breast augmentation, it’s hard to know which type of implant works better for your unique presentation and your desired goals. To bring more clarity, take a look at this question-and-answer session with Dr. Martin. In it, he discusses the pros and cons of the two implant types. It is a great resource and will help you figure out which type of implant is better for you.

Question: What are the main differences between saline and silicone implants?

Dr. Martin: Both saline and silicone breast implants have a silicone outer shell, but they differ in their inner filling. Silicone implants are filled with a cohesive silicone gel while saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater.

Silicone implants come pre-filled to a set volume from the factory and have more of a natural breast feel. Saline implants come deflated and are filled during the surgery itself. They also tend to feel less natural than silicone implants.

Silicone implants are available in a wide range of sizes and max out around 800cc. Saline implants also come in a wide range of sizes including options larger than 800cc. They can also be overfilled and filled with different amounts from one side to another to address breasts that are different sizes.

Question: What are the pros and cons of each type of implant?

Dr. Martin: The pros of silicone implants are that they have a more natural feel and are available in a wider range of shapes and projections. For the newer generation implants, there is less risk of visible wrinkles or rippling. They also are more durable than saline implants. Since they come pre-filled, the cons of silicone implants is that they require slightly longer incisions, around 25% longer, than compared to saline implants. They also are more expensive.

The pros of saline implants are that they can be overfilled and come in very large sizes. The incision for placement is smaller since they are filled once they are in the proper position during surgery. They are also less expensive. The cons of saline implants are that they feel less natural and are more likely to show wrinkles and rippling if not overfilled. There are also fewer options when it comes to the shape and projection of the implant. Lastly, they are more likely to fail.

Question: Who would benefit from either a saline or silicone implant?

Dr. Martin: If you are 22 years of age or older, I would recommend a silicone breast implant. They look and feel much more natural. They are much more durable especially since the cohesive silicone gel holds the implant together more uniformly. There are also a lot more options to choose from.

Saline implants may be better for patients on a tight budget and for those wanting very large implants, greater than 800cc. FYI, for patients less than 22 years of age, we are required to use saline implants by the FDA. Lastly, saline implants are sometimes better in cases of breast asymmetry since their volume can be adjusted during surgery.

Question: What else should a patient consider when choosing between silicone and saline implants?

Dr. Martin: It is important to think about your goals, especially your desired look. If you care about fullness and projection, then a silicone implant is the better choice. If you are only concerned about the incision length, then a saline implant is your best bet. I also think it is important to be open about your lifestyle and fitness routine when considering the type of implant that works for you. Saline implants often don’t offer enough durability in cases of very active patients.

Question: Any final thoughts?

Dr. Martin: If your primary goal is to have a natural breast augmentation, silicone implants are going to be the superior option. The only reason to pick a saline implant, in my mind, is for those of you less than 22 years of age or when cost is a real issue. Just for comparison, a saline implant is around 50% less costly than a silicone implant, depending on the manufacturer. However, silicone implants yield much better aesthetic results for most patients. There isn’t much difference in the length of the incisions unless you are considering a larger implant, greater than 650cc. A silicone implant is more durable and ripples less than standard-filled saline implants. In my practice, silicone implants are my first, second, and third choice. Also, to this point, many of our patients are surprised to learn that saline and silicone implants have the same silicone shell or covering. If you are inclined to choose a saline implant over a silicone implant out of silicone concerns, it doesn’t avoid exposure to silicone, especially on a microscopic level. Just remember, the safety profile of these implants is the same. So if all things are equal on the safety front, a silicone implant is just the smarter choice.

View Details

Selecting the right surgeon is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when choosing to do a breast augmentation. But with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to try and decide who to trust. As someone who has been an expert in this surgery for many years, I do have a unique and helpful insider’s viewpoint. So in hopes of giving you more confidence in your decision, here are my insider tips for finding the best breast augmentation surgeon in your area.

Selecting a surgeon: important points and my insider tips* Make sure they are board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery or the Royal College of Surgeons. This rigorous certification process ensures your surgeon has undergone the necessary training while meeting the highest ethical standards. + Insider tip: Stay away from doctors claiming board certification from unofficial “cosmetic surgery” boards. * Look for a surgeon whose aesthetic style matches yours. If the results don’t align with your goals, keep looking. You want a surgeon who understands and who can deliver your desired results. + Insider tip: Examine the surgeons before and after photos, and pay special attention to the body types similar to yours. Do you like what you see? * Schedule consultations with 2-3 surgeons. Pay attention to how comfortable you feel with each one. Does the surgeon and his or her office staff attentively address all your questions/concerns? + Insider tip: The right surgeon will guide you through the steps of the process while respecting your voice. If you don’t feel that the surgeon is hearing you, then your results will probably not line up with your expectations. * Confirm the surgeon operates in an accredited surgical facility. This is very important as it ensures the highest safety standards are met for your surgery. + Insider tip: In-office surgical suites are often not accredited as accreditation is a costly process. If your surgeon is going to complete this surgery in his or her office, ask to see their accreditation paperwork. * Be wary of prices that seem too good to be true. Cut-rate surgeons and surgery centers often cut corners on quality of care to keep the price artificially low. This includes using substandard implants for your surgery. + Insider tip: Focus on finding a skilled, reputable surgeon, not just the cheapest option. Price is a factor but it should not be the most important one.

In summary: what matters most with this decisionTake the time to do your research and complete at least 2-3 consultations. Find a surgeon who gives you a feeling of trust and attentively listens to your questions and concerns. Make sure you also get a good feeling from their office staff. If the vibe is bad, that is often indicative of bigger problems in their practice. Ask yourself: Does the surgeon’s work align with “my” aesthetic vision? Also, is the plastic surgeon board-certified and do they operate in an accredited facility? And most importantly, don’t rush your decision. Make sure you choose your surgeon for the right reasons, not just based on price. If you find a surgeon you like after following these recommendations, you can be confident about your decision. Most importantly, you can move on to being excited about your upcoming results!

• My last insider tip: In our office, we offer both telehealth and in-person consultations. If your options aren’t panning out and you want an alternative opinion, feel free to make an appointment with me. I love this surgery and I would be happy to give you my recommendations.

View Details

If you are considering breast augmentation, you may be wondering – am I a good candidate? For many aesthetic surgeries, even one as straightforward as breast augmentation, it can be hard to know if you are a good candidate. Therefore, to help you make a more informed decision, we created this comprehensive list. It lays out all the factors that make breast augmentation either a good or not so good, fit for you.

Who is a Good Candidate for Breast Augmentation?Breast augmentation is an amazing surgery. With only one procedure, it addresses a host of issues, including the concerns you may have about the shape, size, contour, and symmetry of your breasts. But is it right for you? Below is a comprehensive list of what makes you a good candidate:

• You have good overall health: Undergoing any elective cosmetic surgery or procedure requires, first and foremost, that you are healthy. Breast augmentation is no exception. Having a good overall health status is as important as having issues that would be improved by this surgery. There are a few medical conditions that would preclude you from undergoing this surgery, or most elective surgeries, in our office:
  • Uncontrolled diabetes: our cutoff is a HgbA1C of 6.5.
  • High blood pressure: a baseline systolic blood pressure greater than 150.
  • Notable obesity: a BMI of 30 or higher would preclude you from this surgery.
  • Conditions that require blood thinners, aka anticoagulation therapy.
  • Inflammatory conditions that require steroids or immunomodulating medications.
  • Medical issues that wouldn’t allow you to undergo general anesthesia.
  • Chronic anemia or low blood levels from blood or absorption-based conditions.
  • Recent history of smoking or vaping
• You have realistic expectations: Going into this surgery with a realistic idea of what it can and can’t do is key. Expertly fitted breast implants will do wonders for your breast size, shape, and projection, but they won’t lift sagging breasts or fix other structural issues. Therefore, you should focus on the specific aesthetic improvements that this surgery offers and less on the changes that you ‘hope’ can occur.
• You simply desire bigger breasts: The number one reason for choosing breast augmentation is simply wanting larger breasts. This is the perfect surgery if your primary motivation is increased breast size and you are otherwise healthy.
• You want better body balance: Underdeveloped breasts or breasts that are naturally small can make your body look out of proportion. Implants can increase the size of your breast and secondarily balance out your figure. It is a win-win.
• Your breasts look deflated and sad: Pregnancy, weight loss, and aging cause a lot of changes to your breasts and the most notable is a loss of volume. Breast augmentation is a great option to restore a more youthful contour, especially in the upper part of your breast.
• Your breasts look asymmetric: Breasts that are significantly different sizes can often be evened out with breast augmentation.

Should you take the next step?The FDA guidelines require that you be at least 22 years of age for the use of silicone implants and 18 years of age for the use of saline implants. This ensures that you are fully developed physically, for the best results. But if you are 22 years of age or older, are in good health, and meet the criteria above, why wait? This is truly awesome surgery that has dramatic and instant results. It also can boost your confidence many times more than other cosmetic procedures we offer. As long as you have realistic expectations, a breast augmentation solves most of the issues you have with your breasts, especially issues involving the shape, size, and contour. Now all you have left to do is schedule a consultation with our office today and start planning!

View Details

Breast implants are extremely durable, contrary to popular belief. The myth that they will automatically “expire” after 10 years gets passed around a lot as a truth. This creates unneeded confusion and stress for those with breast implants. The real truth is that breast implants can last decades, even a lifetime. To debunk this myth, we will explain why breast implants don’t “expire” in any set timeframe. And although follow-up breast procedures are likely after breast augmentation, breast implant expiration will not be the reason.

What you need to know* There is no real scientific evidence behind the 10-year myth. It originally stems from statistics in the 1990s and focuses on how often women were having revision surgeries. * Implants themselves do not have a pre-programmed lifespan or expiration date. They are meant to last a very long time. * Your implants could last well beyond 10 years if you have no issues with them. There’s no mandate to replace them in a decade, if all is well. * On the flip side, you will likely need a revision procedure in your lifetime after breast augmentation surgery. Capsular contracture, implant failure, breast droopiness and deflation from pregnancy, weight loss/gain, and aging often require further surgeries. * If your breast implants still feel soft and natural after breast augmentation there’s no reason to remove or replace your implants, especially at an arbitrary date. In other words, don’t mess with them if they look and feel fine. * Listen to your body and the advice of your board-certified plastic surgeon. Schedule the recommended checkups to monitor your breast health. Do regular self-breast exams. Follow the FDA regarding surveillance with breast MRIs. But there is no reason to be concerned when you are near the decade mark after having this procedure. * Revision and refresh surgeries over your lifetime of having implants are possible and in most cases likley. This is probably one of the most important truths to understand about breast augmentation surgery and should be factored into your decision to have this surgery.

So how long will it last?The notion that breast implants expire after 10 years is a myth. While ongoing checkups are important, including the FDA-recommended screening with breast MRIs, implants themselves have no predetermined expiration date or lifespan. The real truth is that breast implants are extremely durable and implant failure is one of the least likely reasons you will need a revision procedure after breast augmentation surgery. However, revision surgeries and procedures follow no timetable and can occur within months, years, and even decades from your original surgery. Therefore, you must factor this into your decision to undergo this surgery. In other words, you should expect breast augmentation surgery to last a long time, but not forever. Those of you considering breast augmentation surgery or those of you who have breast implants should assume that a revision, touch-up, or a refresh procedure will be needed ‘some time’ down the road.

View Details

Your go-to guide for breast augmentation Do you have questions about what breast augmentation can and can’t do? If your answer is yes, then this go-to guide has you covered. In it, we discuss the benefits and limitations of this popular procedure.

What breast augmentation can do:* Increase your breast size: This is the primary goal for most patients. Implants can significantly enhance breast fullness simply by increasing your cup size. * Improve your shape and add perkiness. Many women want fuller, rounder, and more desirable breasts. By selecting the perfect implant for you, contour, along with projection, can be notably enhanced. * Address your asymmetry: Many women have asymmetric breasts and breast implants can even things out, especially in regards to size. It can also improve your body balance, helping your top half equal your bottom half. * Restore your lost volume after pregnancy or weight loss. Childbirth, weight loss, and even aging can leave breasts looking deflated and sad. A breast augmentation restores what was lost, and often makes it better than what you started with. * Boost your self-confidence: Besides improving the shape, contour, and symmetry of your breasts, breast augmentation offers an emotional transformation. It can restore your self-confidence by building up your self-image. A win-win.

What breast augmentation can’t do: * Lift your sagging breast: When breasts sag and droop, implants alone won’t put them back into a desirable position. A breast lift procedure with or without breast augmentation, is the only definitive way to lift breasts. * Make your stretch marks less visible: Breast implants are always placed under the breast tissue and most often, also under the chest muscle. Therefore, even though breast implants in these positions will stretch out the skin and soft tissue, skin imperfections will likely remain. That is the reality of this surgery. * Make your breasts look 100% natural: Breast augmentation that is completed conservatively often has an extremely natural appearance. But, there is always a chance of subtle implant show, especially for those of you with small breasts. Fat transfer, although limited in its ability to transform your breasts, is the only 100% natural option. * Guarantee your breasts are symmetrical: Breast augmentation is a great way to make your breasts more even but it can’t guarantee perfect symmetry. Therefore, although improved balance is a guarantee, slight unevenness may persist after surgery. * Your breast augmentation surgery will last forever: Breast augmentation is not considered a permanent procedure. You should expect that there will likely be more surgeries to revise and refresh your breasts, in the near or distant future.

So what are your next steps?If you feel like breast augmentation is right for you, the next step is to schedule an in-person or telehealth appointment with our office. We can then complete an evaluation, and most importantly let you know if breast augmentation is a good fit. FYI, if you need a lift, we will let you know that too. it’s better to find that out upfront so you can plan accordingly.

While breast augmentation surgery has a few notable limitations, it can dramatically improve your breast size, shape, and contour, while boosting your overall confidence. The key, for those of you considering this procedure, is to be realistic about what it can achieve. But in expert hands, it is an amazingly transformative surgery that can help you look and feel your very best!

View Details

A mini tummy tuck is not a lesser version of a full tummy tuck, it’s just different. It is a unique procedure that has a few secrets that most don’t know it can do. A mini tummy targets the loose skin and fat below your belly button with a shorter, more discrete incision. Don’t let the ‘mini’ moniker fool you, this tummy tuck still provides incredible results with slightly less downtime and recovery.

Mini Tummy Tuck: Our Top Three Secrets

1. Treat abdominal muscle separation without a full tummy tuck. A mini tuck can bring those muscles together for a flatter, firmer look if you have diastasis recti from pregnancy or weight changes. The mini technique means less scarring too.
2. Combine with liposuction for contouring. A mini tuck eliminates loose skin, while liposuction targets lingering fat deposits. Used together, they can contour your lower abdomen for dramatic results.
3. Combine with other procedures for dramatic results. One of the best secrets is that a mini tummy tuck integrates seamlessly with liposuction, breast augmentation or lift procedures. Addressing multiple areas in one surgery means less you can maximize results and minimize downtime.

The Mini Option May Be Your Best Option

The benefits of a mini tummy tuck often come as a welcome surprise to patients who have written off tummy tucks as too invasive. With slightly shorter recovery times and scarring, mini techniques are an appealing option for anyone with lower belly bulges and/or muscle separation after pregnancy. Contact our office today to see if you’re a candidate for a mini tummy tuck.

View Details

If you’re bothered by loose skin, fat, and stretch marks below your belly button only, a mini tummy tuck is a great option. This less extensive tummy tuck targets only your lower abdomen, with a slightly shorter recovery time and scar, than a full tummy tuck. With so many types of tummy tucks to choose from, understanding how they differ can be confusing. And this is especially true for a mini tummy tuck. Therefore, we created this overview to give you all the important information so that you can better understand this surgery.

What It Treats

A mini tummy tuck treats a lot of issues but there are four main problems it addresses:

• Excess skin and fat below the belly button
• Some, but not all of the stretch marks on the lower belly
• Separation of the abdominal muscles (diastasis recti)
• Contour of surrounding areas if liposuction is added

The Mini Tuck Difference

Don’t be fooled by the mini moniker, this surgery makes a BIG difference. But when you compare it to a full tummy tuck, there are some notable differences. A mini:

• Has a shorter incision
• Only addresses problem areas below your belly button
• Is not great at addressing belly button issues
• Has a slightly shorter recovery than a full, especially with no muscle repair

Your Health Matters!

For you to be considered a good candidate for this procedure, you must be:

• Healthy with no uncontrolled medical conditions
• At or near a maintainable and healthy weight
• Non-smoking and living a healthy lifestyle

What Happens During Surgery

This surgery takes several hours depending on the amount of skin/fat removed and if a muscle repair or liposuction is added. Here are the surgery details:

• An incision is made at the level of your pubic hair a little less wide than your hip bones
• In most cases, all the excess skin and fat are removed below your belly button
• The abdominal muscles may be tightened at the same time
• Can be combined with waist and back lipo
• A surgical drain is commonly needed

Recovery Basics

Recovering from a mini tummy tuck is not much different than recovery from a full tummy tuck. Here are the details:

• For the first 1-2 weeks, no work duties and you will need help around the house
• Avoid exercise/strenuous activity for at least 4, maybe up to 8 weeks
• Swelling and bruising are common and can persist for weeks to months
• Compression garments are typically worn for 2-3 weeks
• Expect a longer recovery if a muscle repair is completed or liposuction is added

The Takeaway

A mini tummy tuck is ideal for addressing concerns below the belly button. It requires slightly less downtime than a full tummy tuck if a muscle repair is not added. You now understand what the procedure can address and the extent of recovery. Now that you know the truth, don’t be afraid to take the next step. Schedule an appointment with us today to determine if you are a good candidate.

View Details

Having a tummy tuck is exciting and you’ve probably spent hours researching what to expect and the d-word has surely crossed your mind. Let’s just say it, drains sound scary! So drain-less surgery must be the answer, right? Drain-less tummy tuck surgery is not always the answer and we’ll discuss why below. Plastic surgeons use surgical drains during many different types of cosmetic surgeries to remove fluid buildup after surgery and prevent seromas (aka, inflammatory fluid collections). However, drains can be uncomfortable and they don’t always guarantee that a seroma won’t develop. Therefore, some surgeons are now performing drain-less tummy tucks. With the use of quilting sutures, they attempt to close the open space under your skin during surgery. This has shown promise and some plastic surgeons are using this terminology to market to potential patients. Let’s discuss the pros and cons of this approach.

Potential Benefits of Drain-less Surgery

• Increased comfort: Drains can be uncomfortable and awkward to manage at home. Avoiding them means a little less discomfort and hassle.
• Slight decrease in infection risk: Drains require an incision for insertion/removal, which creates a small risk of infection. Going drain-less reduces this risk in the immediate post-operative time frame.
• More manageable recovery time: No drains can translate to an easier road to healing for some, at least in the first few weeks after surgery
• Less scarring – Drain scars are tiny and rarely visible once healed but no drain scars is a positive.

Potential Drawbacks of Drain-less Surgery

• Higher seroma risk: Drains help remove fluid buildup after surgery. Omitting them can increase the chances of seromas forming especially if aggressive liposuction of your waist is included in this procedure. Which is a very common add-on.
• Increased swelling: Drains reduce swelling by removing excess fluid in the surgical site. Swelling may linger longer without drains. This can have downstream effects on your healing.
• Compromised circulation: Drains help relieve pressure. Too much swelling without drains can potentially compromise blood flow and lead to a prolonged recovery.
• Need for follow-up procedures: If a seroma develops because the quilting sutures are unable to stop and inflammatory fluid collection underneath the skin, additional treatments or procedures will be required.
• Drain tolerance: Most patients tolerate drains well, they are usually only needed for 1-2 weeks after surgery.

Is drain-less best?

Drainless tummy tuck surgery reduces some discomfort immediately after surgery. However, plastic surgeons rely on drains to control swelling and optimize your surgical results. In our office, we offer both procedures but find that our combination procedures, ones that include a tummy tuck with liposuction, benefit from having drains placed. You should have an in-depth discussion with your surgeon about pros, cons, and personal factors to determine what is best for you. But remember, what matters most is the outcome. If drains are required, it’s only a short period of time. Don’t make drains the deciding factor in your surgical decision-making. Good luck!

View Details

If you’re bothered by loose skin, fat, and stretch marks on your belly, a full tummy tuck is a great option. It is the gold standard for belly transformations as it addresses your entire abdomen from top to bottom. But with so many types of tummy tucks to choose from, understanding how a full tummy tuck differs can be confusing. Therefore, we created this overview. It gives you all the important information to better understand this surgery.

What It Treats

A full tummy tuck can address a lot of issues but there are five problems it primarily treats:

• Excess belly fat and loose skin of your entire abdomen
• Stretched belly muscles, separated due to pregnancy or weight changes
• The contour of your waistline, if liposuction is added
• The appearance and presence of stretch marks
• Unsightly belly buttons that have lost their youthful shape

The Full Tummy Tuck Difference

In comparison to a mini Tummy Tuck, a full tummy tuck will have more dramatic results. Here are the notable differences:

• Has a very low scar but has a longer incision, hip-to-hip
• Addresses the entire abdomen, not just the lower belly
• It offers a better way to address muscle repair
• Better at transforming the appearance of your waist

The Best Candidates

For you to be considered a good candidate, you might or will:

• Have excess belly fat and loose skin, resistant to diet and exercise
• Struggle with stretched stomach muscles from pregnancy or weight changes
• Have unsightly stretch marks and/or belly button that needs some work
• Feel healthy and have no poorly treated medical issues
• Be at or near a maintainable and healthy weight
• Live a healthy lifestyle and be non-smoking

What Happens During My Surgery?

This surgery takes several hours depending on the amount of skin/fat removed and if a muscle repair or liposuction is completed. Here are the surgery details:

• An incision is made at the level of your pubic hair and extends in a low position, hip to hip
• All the excess skin and fat are removed above and below your belly button
• The abdominal muscles are usually tightened at the same time
• The surgery itself is commonly combined with waist and back liposuction
• 1 or 2 surgical drains are commonly needed unless drain-less surgery is indicated

Recovery Basics

Recovering from a full tummy tuck is doable but it takes planning due to the extended amount of downtime. Here are the details:

• For the first 2 weeks, no physical work duties and you will need help around the house, especially with childcare
• During the first week, you will have some discomfort, so pain medication and muscle relaxants are needed
• Swelling takes several weeks to months to fully subside
• You are limited to lifting nothing over 5-10 lbs for the first 4 weeks
• Most people feel back to normal by 6 weeks but this can vary
• Avoid exercise/strenuous activity for at least 4, maybe up to 8 weeks
• Compression garments are typically worn for 2-3 weeks for comfort
• Expect a longer recovery if a muscle repair is completed or liposuction is added

Things to Consider

These are some important points to consider if you want to move forward:

• Results are immediately visible but will continue to improve as the swelling resolves
• Scarring is inevitable but the incision is placed very low and fades over time. It should be well-faded and barely visible one year after surgery
• There are risks with any surgery, so choosing an experienced plastic surgeon is key

The Full Tummy Tuck Takeaway

While the recovery period should not be underestimated, a full tummy tuck can be life-changing for the right candidate. This surgery transforms not just the appearance of your belly, but also the contour of your entire torso. As you now understand what this procedure can address and the extent of recovery, don’t be afraid to take the next step. Schedule an appointment with us today to determine if you are a good candidate.

View Details

Rectus diastasis repair is one of the most transformative yet underappreciated aspects of a tummy tuck procedure. For patients with stretched or separated abdominal muscles from pregnancy, weight fluctuations, or aging, stitching these muscles back together literally pulls the belly inward, creating a tighter, firmer look. But the hidden bonus of this repair, which most patients don’t realize, is a dramatically better-defined waistline. This new and improved hourglass shape is an aesthetic game-changer and truly gives my patients the best of both worlds.

What is the Deal with this Bulge?

During pregnancy, the rectus abdominis muscles, which run vertically along your belly, can be pushed apart by the growing baby. This same process can also occur when you gain weight. This separation of the “six pack” muscle, medically termed diastasis recti, causes the belly to have a pooched-out appearance. Crunches and core exercises can help strengthen the muscles but they will NOT mold the muscles back into their normal anatomic position. Only actual surgery can fully correct and close the gap. During a tummy tuck, I surgically stitch together the elongated fascia between the right and left rectus muscles, cinching the abdomen tightly in the midline, which creates a corset effect.

The 180 Degree Change

This powerful inward pull of a rectus diastasis repair serves to immediately flatten a poochy belly, but it also causes a secondary tightening effect along the circumferential waistline. By bringing the vertical muscles together, the abdominal circumference is narrowed. The entire lower torso is cinched snugly like a corset, creating a definition between the waist and hips that was previously lacking. The potential for enhancement along the waist is not often emphasized by plastic surgeons preoperatively, so it can be a nice surprise to patients to see this transformation in the recovery phase.

You Have to See it to Believe it

Before and after tummy tuck photos really do showcase this benefit. Pre-operatively, patients often lack clear delineation between waist and hips, with a blocky silhouette and undesirable contouring. But post-operatively, the waistline is visibly sculpted, showcasing an hourglass shape. While some of this effect comes from liposuction of the love handles, much of it stems from the diastasis repair itself. The newly taut waist leaves patients feeling not just thinner, but also curvier in all the right places. Check out our before and after comparison below:

A True Two for One

In today’s body-conscious world, a well-defined waistline is a coveted asset. For postpartum mothers, weight loss patients, and any individual whose midsection has lost its hourglass shape, diastasis recti repair can help regain that ideal waist contour. Along with a firmer, tighter tummy, our patients love their narrowed waist after tummy tuck surgery. So while the physical and functional benefits of strengthening the abdominal wall are undeniable, the visible enhancement of the waistline is a welcome perk that shouldn’t be overlooked…true two-for-one.

View Details

Do you constantly find yourself sucking in your stomach, even when you aren’t in a swimsuit? Does your lower back ache after long days of activity? Have you noticed that your core strength just isn’t what it used to be after having kids or after your weight changed? If the answer is yes, you may be dealing with a sneaky condition called rectus diastasis. Don’t worry – you’re not alone. As a board-certified plastic surgeon, I see this issue all the time during my tummy tuck consultations. Many of my patients are shocked to learn their vertically oriented abdominal muscles have separated away from the midline and are causing many of these issues.

Let me spill the tea on this common problem and let me tell you how I can fix it for good during a tummy tuck!

The Devilish Details on Diastasis RectiRectus diastasis occurs when the large washboard ab muscles in the middle of your belly, called the rectus abdominis muscle, splits away from the midline. This creates a gap between the two vertically oriented muscles, allowing the inside of your belly to spill forward and creating that beloved “pooch” that so many of my patients dislike.

Some key details on diastasis recti:

• Caused by pregnancy, weight changes, or other conditions
• It worsens with multiple pregnancies
• Up to 60% of pregnant women will have this condition
• Genetics and connective tissue disorders can also increase the risk
• It doesn’t usually resolve on its own

Do You Have a “Mom Tum”? 3 Ways to TellMany of my patients have no clue they’re dealing with diastasis recti. Here are some tell-tale signs:

1. The Belly BulgeDo you notice a pooch or bulge right around your belly button that sticks out no matter how much you diet and exercise? That’s likely diastasis recti.

2. The Push TestLie on your back, knees bent. Place your fingers right above your belly button. Now lift your head slightly. See any separation between the ab muscles? That’s a rectus diastasis.

3. Back Pain and Core ChangesIf you have new back pain or feel your core strength isn’t the same, diastasis recti could be the cause. When those separated muscles are misaligned, they struggle to properly stabilize your spine and pelvis.

My Plan: Stitch You Back TogetherThe good news is that I can surgically bring your separated belly muscles back together during a tummy tuck. This is called a diastasis recti repair or abdominoplasty with plication.

After I access your abdominal muscles through the tummy tuck incision, I use meticulous suturing techniques to coerce these muscles back to the midline. In simple terms, I tighten and reconstruct your muscle fascia. This process takes me around 20 extra minutes during surgery but it yields huge rewards.

Recovery Considerations After Diastasis Recti RepairI won’t lie – having your ab muscles repaired during a tummy tuck intensifies recovery for the first couple of weeks. You’ll experience significant pain when moving from lying to sitting up and sitting up to standing. This discomfort is temporary but prepare to take it slow for the first week or two.

Patients can usually resume light activity after 4 weeks and core exercises after 6-8 weeks. Remember, I’m not just repairing skin and fat – I’m reconstructing your internal abdominal wall! Patience pays off when it comes to diastasis recti recovery! And a little tip: a TAP block can really decrease the discomfort during the first few days after surgery.

See the Life-Changing Results!Check out these before and after photos of one of my patients who needed a diastasis recti during a tummy tuck. By bringing her severely separated abdominal muscles back together and removing the excess skin and fat, I gave her back her pre-baby belly – and confidence! She couldn’t be happier.

If you’re battling an annoying belly pooch, worsening back pain, or core strength changes that don’t seem to get better, come see me for an exam. I can quickly diagnose rectus diastasis and recommend the best surgical options to get your body back on track. You don’t have to live with the effects of diastasis recti – I can help!

View Details

Tummy tucks are one of the most common procedures we perform in our clinics and for good reason. In one surgery, it can completely transform the appearance of your belly and waist. A big part of this transformation can come from the repositioning of your stretched belly muscles (aka Rectus Diastasis). From pregnancy and weight gain, the core muscles can become stretched, leading to lower back pain and a poochy belly appearance. By putting these core muscles back into their correct position, you can restore core strength and a better body contour. And the best part: it lasts forever!

What is rectus diastasis?

Rectus diastasis is a condition that occurs when the rectus abdominis muscles, which are the two vertical muscles that run down the center of your abdomen, separate from the midline. This can happen during pregnancy, as the growing baby puts pressure on the muscles. It can also occur due to weight fluctuations or other conditions.

What are the symptoms of rectus diastasis?

The most common symptom of rectus diastasis is a bulge or “pooch” in the upper and/or lower belly. Other symptoms may include:

• Weakness in the core muscles
• Back pain
• Incontinence

How is rectus diastasis diagnosed?

We diagnose a rectus diastasis by performing a physical exam. Specifically, we will feel the abdomen with you in a lying position and with your legs lifted off the ground against resistance. We then measure the distance between the two rectus abdominis muscles in finger breadths with your core muscles engaged. More than two finger breadths may require surgical correction.

How is rectus diastasis treated?

Although there is only one definitive way to treat rectus diastasis, non-surgical options can help. Some may be able to improve their symptoms with exercises that strengthen the core muscles and the pelvic floor. However, if the separation is moderate to severe, surgical correction is the only effective answer.

How is rectus diastasis repaired during a tummy tuck?

During a tummy tuck, I separate your skin and soft tissue from the underlying muscles. Once I am able to visualize the rectus abdominis muscle separation, we bring it back to the midline with suturing techniques.

What are the benefits of rectus diastasis repair?

The benefits of rectus diastasis repair include:

• A flatter, more toned abdomen
• Improved core strength
• Reduced back pain
• Reduced incontinence

Some additional benefits of rectus diastasis repair include:

• It can help to improve posture.
• It can help to reduce the appearance of stretch marks.
• It can help to give you a more defined waistline.

If you are considering rectus diastasis repair, be sure to schedule an appointment with our office to discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure.

Here are the rectus diastasis repair need-to-know bullet points:

• Rectus diastasis is a condition that occurs when the rectus abdominis muscles separate during pregnancy, with weight fluctuations, or with other conditions.
• The most common symptom is a bulge or “pooch” in the abdomen.
• Exercise can help, but surgical correction is the definitive treatment
• Rectus diastasis repair will improve the appearance of the belly, aka abdomen, and may improve core strength.

View Details

A tummy tuck, aka abdominoplasty, is the gold standard for removing loose belly skin, treating visible stretch marks, sculpting resistant midsection fat, and even tightening stretched stomach muscles. All surgeries require some amount of downtime and a tummy tuck is no exception. With this in mind many of our patients make the decision to turn a potential negative into a positive, by combining their tummy tuck surgery with additional procedures. It’s a smart approach because in most cases, it doesn’t make your recovery that much longer and it’s just ONE recovery. If you’re going to have downtime, you might as well optimize that downtime. Here’s what you need to know about combining other procedures with tummy tucks:

Common Add-On Procedures

This list is not complete as almost any cosmetic procedure can be combined with a tummy tuck safely. The procedures listed here align well with a tummy tuck, primarily because they address other potential problem areas that our tummy tuck patients often present with:

• Mommy Makeover: One of the most popular combo options is to add on a mommy makeover. This pairs your tummy tuck with multiple procedures that treat post-pregnancy changes to your face, breasts, and body. Most commonly, it is a breast procedure like a lift, a breast augmentation, a breast lift with augmentation, or even a breast reduction. Fixing both your belly and breasts at the same time can treat most or all of the unwanted changes from pregnancy and nursing.
• Thigh lift: A thigh lift is commonly needed after weight loss, especially if that weight loss is greater than 50 lbs. More often than not, if you have loose skin on your belly, you probably have some on your thighs as well. We often combine a tummy tuck with a thigh lift to address the loose and sagging skin in both areas. It’s a powerful combination that doesn’t add much more time to your recovery.
• Arm lift: Aka brachioplasty removes loose and sagging skin and excess fat from your upper arms. It’s often done along with body contouring after weight loss or due to age-related changes. Many of our patients who are candidates for an arm lift are also candidates for a tummy tuck. Combining these procedures together will make the first few weeks of recovery harder but it won’t change the overall length of your downtime.
• Butt lift: A Brazilian butt lift improves the shape and adds fullness to your middle and upper butt. It is an especially great combination procedure with a tummy tuck that includes 360-degree liposuction. In these cases, the fat removed from your belly, waist, and lower back is transferred to your butt. It is a great use of the fat that you don’t want!
• Body lift: A lower body lift is one of the most transformational procedures we offer but also has the longest recovery. It pairs well with a tummy tuck and together, they can treat all the post-weight loss and age-related issues on your torso and lower body.
• Liposuction: Liposuction is the most common procedure to combine with a tummy tuck. Liposuction removes fat from and sculpts all your other trouble areas like your waist, hips, thighs, and arms. It will add to your discomfort and post-operative swelling but it is worth that cost because it can make your tummy tuck results that much better.

The Combo Procedure Benefits

Combining your tummy tuck with other procedures is a smart decision. Here is why:

• You can achieve more dramatic improvements in your overall body contour than with a tummy tuck alone. A mommy makeover is a classic combo that gives a full-body transformation that is not just limited to your belly.
• It allows you to have multiple procedures done under one anesthesia.
• You can have a single recovery period, with not much added discomfort or recovery time.
• It allows you to reduce costs by having multiple surgeries at one time.

What to Expect with Recovery

Adding on other procedures with a tummy tuck will add to your recovery. Here is what to expect:

• Recovery will likely be longer when procedures are combined with a tummy tuck. In most cases this only adds a week or 2 at the most to your overall recovery time.
• Combo procedures definitely come with more swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Fortunately, this is temporary and limited to the first 4 to 6 weeks of recovery when compared to a tummy tuck alone.
• You may need extra help caring for yourself in the first 2 weeks of recovery. This is fairly similar to what you would need for a tummy tuck alone so be sure to review our tummy tuck recovery recommendations.
• Follow your post-operative instructions closely, including restrictions on activity. Movement, including walking, is extremely important but it is important to not overdo it, especially if you are recovering from multiple procedures.
• Be patient through the healing process. Results will be visible once the swelling subsides. When you undergo multiple procedures on the face, breast, and body in one surgery, swelling can last for weeks to even months. This is just part of the normal healing process.

Is a Combo Procedure Right for You?

While tummy tucks with combination procedures are incredibly transformative, they do require slightly more recovery and they may increase your immediate post-operative discomfort. The increased swelling and discomfort are almost always limited to the first 4 to 6 weeks after surgery. Most importantly, you can get everything out of the way with one anesthesia, one surgery, and ONE recovery. If you are ready to take the leap and combo your tummy tuck, schedule an appointment with our office today to see if you are a candidate.

View Details

If you are considering a tummy tuck, you probably want a slimmer and more toned-looking belly but have you thought about your belly button, and how it might look after surgery? The appearance of the belly button is an important factor in creating natural-looking tummy tuck results. Many plastic surgeons don’t pay enough attention to belly button aesthetics, leaving patients with an unnatural ring-shaped scar around their navel. This donut scar can detract from your results because the scar is so visible. At our practice, we take a meticulous approach to crafting beautiful belly buttons. We take pride in making them look natural and in some cases even better than they did before surgery.

Our Technique for Natural-Looking Belly Buttons

It takes effort to create natural-looking belly buttons:

• The incision for our tummy tucks is very low, at least an inch below the C-section scar line. This helps the scar fade and be hidden under most underwear and swimsuits.
• We anchor the deep abdominal skin flap down to the fascia overlying the abdominal muscles in four quadrants around the belly button. This “invaginates” the belly button inward for that desirable “innie” look.
• Outie belly buttons often result in a visible circular scar after surgery. Our technique avoids this by hiding that ring scar at the base of your reconstructed belly button.
• Our unique suturing technique secures your belly button skin to the fascia overlying your belly muscles, ensuring that it maintains its natural position and heals as an innie.
• When suturing the belly button, we carefully match its original placement, shape, and orientation on the abdomen.

The Benefits of Our Belly Button Approach

It just looks better when a post-tummy tuck belly button actually looks like a normal belly button:

• The results look natural, not surgical. Our patients are happy that they still “look like themselves.”
• The scar around your belly button is not visible when your belly is exposed.
• No unnatural ring-shaped scars and no weird-shaped belly button openings.
• The belly button appears youthful and proportionate to your flat and tightened belly.

Check out this belly button before and after

Your Belly Button Matters!

It seems like some plastic surgeons don’t prioritize belly button aesthetics with tummy tucks. Your belly button is a focal point on your torso and visible scarring there is really dissatisfying. Our technique addresses the scarring issue by re-creating a natural-looking ‘innie’ belly button. If you’re considering a tummy tuck be sure to ask your surgeon about their specific approach to crafting the belly button. This small detail makes a big difference in creating transformative results. If you like our results, schedule a consultation with our office and see if you are a candidate for a tummy tuck procedure.

View Details

If you’re bothered by loose skin, fat, and stretch marks on your belly, a full tummy tuck is a great option. But what about that other stuff you don’t like? Like the muffin top around your waist and lower back? If a tummy tuck is the gold standard for belly transformations, then adding 360-degree liposuction is the gold standard for full torso transformations. It will treat your ENTIRE torso in a 360-degree fashion. This overview gives you all the important information on why adding 360-degree liposuction to a tummy tuck is a game changer.

Let’s Start With What a Full Tummy Tuck Treats

A full tummy tuck is really good at treating these four belly issues:

• Loose skin and too much fat
• Stretched and split stomach muscles
• The appearance of stretch marks
• Belly buttons that need a little help

The 360-Degree Liposuction Difference

Adding 360-degree liposuction will supercharge your abdominoplasty results. It takes a tummy tuck to the next level by contouring your sides and back. This results in:

• Refines all your curves and helps clothes fit better
• Smooths unwanted bulges around your waist and back
• Sculpts your midsection for full body results

The Best 360-Degree Candidates

For you to be considered a good candidate for a 360-degree procedure, you likley:

• Have excess skin or fat on the belly, unresponsive to diet and exercise
• Struggle with contour issues of your waist, back and even hips
• Are healthy and have no uncontrolled medical conditions
• Be at or near a maintainable and healthy weight
• Live a healthy lifestyle and be non-smoking

What Happens During My Surgery?

This surgery takes longer than a standard tummy tuck depending on the amount of liposuction that is needed. Here are the surgery details:

• A very low, hip to hip incision is made at the level of your pubic hair
• The excess skin and belly fat are removed
• The abdominal muscles are tightened if needed
• Lipocontouring of the waist and back is completed
• Surgical drains are usually needed

Recovery Basics

Recovering from a full tummy tuck with 360-degree liposuction takes a little planning due to the increased downtime. Here are the details:

• For the first 2-3 weeks, no physical work duties and you will need help around the house, especially with childcare
• During the first week you will have some discomfort, so pain medication and muscle relaxants are commonly needed
• Swelling can take months to fully subside with the added lipo
• By 6-8 weeks, you should feel back to normal (but still be healing on the inside)
• Avoid exercise/strenuous activity for at least 4 weeks and up to 8 weeks
• Compression garments really do provide comfort in recovery
• Overall, expect a slightly longer recovery than a tummy tuck alone

Things to Consider

A few important points to consider:

• Results will be immediately visible but will continue to improve as the swelling resolves. Swelling will persist longer in the area(s) of liposuction.
• Scarring is inevitable but the incision is placed very low and will fade over time. It should be well-faded and barely visible after one year
• This is the most transformative type of standard tummy tuck so most people feel that the extra recovery is worth it

The Full Tummy Tuck with 360-Degree Lipo Takeaway

Why stop at the front when you can transform the sides and back? 360 liposuction with a full tummy tuck will make you look slimmer from every angle. While the amount of recovery should not be underestimated, a full tummy tuck with an additional 360-degree liposuction is life-changing for the right candidate. This surgery transforms both the appearance of your belly and the contour of your entire torso! Don’t be afraid to take the next step. Schedule an appointment with us today to determine if you are a good candidate.

View Details

Dr. Martin: One add-on procedure that delivers dramatic results for 360 degree tummy tuck surgeries is circumferential BodyTite assisted liposuction. With 360 degree lipo cases, I perform meticulous contouring not only on the outer abdomen, but also on the flanks, back, and even thighs. This approach legitimately creates a more desirable hourglass contour on top of the tummy tuck results. It’s a huge bonus. Not only do you get flat and toned with a tummy tuck but you get an improved silhouette with circumferential BodyTite assisted lipo. It’s a complete refinement.

Can you also discuss your use of BodyTite technology?

Dr. Martin: Absolutely. BodyTite allows me to perform minimally invasive liposuction using radiofrequency energy. As the BodyTite cannula moves through the areas I am treating, it gently coagulates tissue. This promotes skin tightening and melts the pesky pockets of unwanted fat. With BodyTite, you should see smoother results, somewhat tighter skin and honestly, just a better overall contour than with liposuction alone.

For example, one of my patients in her 60s wanted to refine her torso. She had age and pregnancy related changes that she didn’t like. She thought she needed abdominal liposuction, but I determined that 360 degree liposuction and a tummy tuck would be better. And that’s what we did. The BodyTite assisted flank lipo dramatically slimmed her waist. And the tummy tuck was able to tighten her belly and the associated muscles. She was thrilled with her results.

Any final thoughts to share?

Dr. Martin: Procedures like 360 degree liposuction combined with BodyTite gives me the ability to offer our patients even greater transformations. Adding this onto a tummy tuck makes my results exponentially better. Honestly, the addition of BodyTite to my practice overall has been a gamechanger and it is now our standard combo procedure with most of our tummy tucks.

View Details

A tummy tuck, aka abdominoplasty, is the most effective way to flatten a poochy belly. But what do you do about the rest, including the love handles, waist, hips, and lower back? It obviously wouldn’t make sense to only improve the front appearance, and not work on the other “spare tire” areas. You have to take a more holistic approach when trying to achieve a real transformation. In my practice, I have embraced a 360 degree philosophy. A tummy tuck with 360 degree liposuction treats your entire midsection from top to bottom, AND back to front. 360 degrees of your entire torso. Hence the name!

First, let’s talk tummy. There are a few factors that determine just how flat your belly can be with a Tummy Tuck:

• The amount of excess skin and fat we can safely remove makes a big difference in your postoperative flatness. During your consultation, we do a “pinch test” to determine how much we can surgically exercise so you will have a good idea of what is possible before surgery.
• Repairing separated abdominal muscles caused by pregnancy, weight changes and other conditions can result in more tightness while pulling in your poochy belly. Also known as a diastasis recti repair, this maneuver literally creates a corset for your belly.

Next, Take the 360 Degree Approach and Trick Out Your Tummy

• Aggressive liposuction eliminates bulges along your sides, lower back, and “back butt.” It’s a sculpting extravaganza!
• Love handle liposuction is a key component of this 360-degree approach. It beautifully shapes your torso from the front-to-back transition and allows clothing to fit better.
• A 360-degree approach does also mean more initial recovery time and discomfort. But most patients feel it’s completely worth it to ensure dramatic, head-to-toe improvements in contour and shape.

Turbocharge Your Results

The best candidates for cosmetic surgery have realistic expectations about results. But your expectations with a tummy tuck utilizing a 360 degree approach should be lofty. Removing excess belly skin/fat and tightening muscles will transform your belly. But adding on comprehensive liposuction, that is completed in a 360-degree fashion can absolutely transform your entire midsection. It offers us the best way to turbocharge your tummy tuck results. And this can be further turbocharged if BodyTite is included with the liposuction. Check out some of her before and after photos and schedule a consultation with us today.

View Details

As a board-certified plastic surgeon, I see many patients in my office who complain about having an annoying “spare tire” around their waist. Starting at their midsection and extending around to their lower back, this spare tire creates a blocky waist appearance and an ill defined transition between their lower back and upper butt. It’s a real problem but we have the answer! Although it’s lesser-known, one of the bigger benefits we see from our 360-degree tummy tuck procedures is better definition of the upper butt and a more curvaceous waist.

The 360-degree difference

During a 360-degree tummy tuck, we aggressively liposuction along your back, waist, and hips. By carefully removing this excess fat, the end result is a beautifully sculpted lower torso circumferentially…360 degrees!

A Picture Doesn’t Lie

Take a look at this patient’s before photo – you can see a little excess fat along her back blunting the transition from her lower back to her butt. It’s an area that really frustrated her and she really disliked how it looked in clothes. After her procedure, the difference is striking! Her upper butt is shapely and defined, almost like she had a BBL. But it was just the sculpting we did above and below her butt that gave her this beautiful and natural silhouette. This change translated beautifully into how her clothes fit. She looks fantastic and is thrilled with the new definition between her back and butt.

Improve Your Backside!

So if you struggle with an ill-defined lower back and butt don’t fret. If you can’t tell where your back ends and butt begins, , a tummy tuck with 360 degree liposuction can provide dramatic improvements. It’s one of the secret benefits of an already transformative procedure and it will give you an entirely new and improved silhouette. Contact my office today to learn more about how I can give you a defined waist, flat tummy, AND a beautifully contoured backside

View Details

As a board-certified plastic surgeon, one of the most common questions patients ask me about tummy tucks (abdominoplasty) is will their scar be visible. The simple answer is yes, the scar will be visible to some degree. However, in my hands, the scar placement is extremely low and easily concealed by most swimsuits and underwear. It also fades quickly and should be barely visible by 12 months after surgery. Here are the key facts about the visibility of a tummy tuck scar:

Location:

• The incision runs hip to hip, just above the pubic area. This means it will be covered by most underwear and bikini bottoms.
• The scar sits at least an inch below your C-section scar if you have one. It’s quite low on the torso.
• It wraps around your hips/love handles to address loose skin there too.

Visibility:

• People who see you naked will see the scar, especially when it’s freshly healed. But it fades significantly over time.
• Wearing skimpy string bikinis will likely reveal the scar. However, most average-coverage bikini bottoms will conceal it.
• The scar is rarely visible in daily life. Your clothing choices play the biggest role in determining if it shows.

Our techniques to minimize scarring:

• I take great care to make the scar as inconspicuous as possible. This includes techniques like trimming excess skin for a smoother closure and supportive suturing techniques to take the tension off the incision line.
• Belly buttons often need reconstruction too! I take a lot of pride in my belly button technique especially since it effectively hides the scar. By sewing the deep layers of the skin and belly button together I am effectively able to create an “innie” look. This avoids a “donut-like scar” around the navel that everyone dislikes. No donuts!
• We also use a comprehensive and industry-leading post-operative care plan that drastically reduces scar formation

If you go to an experienced plastic surgeon, tummy tuck scars should not be a major concern. They will be placed extremely low, it will appear thin and symmetrical and it will fade drastically in the first 12 months after surgery. Most importantly, the dramatic improvement in your figure far outweighs a small scar hidden low on your torso. Our patients feel like it is a reasonable trade. Schedule a consultation with us to discuss the questions you may have about the scar placement and how it will actually look on your body.

View Details

As a plastic surgeon, I understand that one of the biggest concerns potential tummy tuck patients have is the scar. The thought of having a large scar running horizontally across the lower belly gives many people pause. However, with good surgical technique and planning, tummy tuck scars are often barely noticeable once healed. Here’s an overview of what you can expect when it comes to different types of tummy tuck scars:

The Scar Comparison

• Mini Tummy Tuck Scars: A mini tummy tuck focuses on the lower abdomen below the belly button. This scar runs horizontally between your hip bones, usually about 5-6 inches long. It sits very, very low, usually an inch lower than a C-section scar. This scar is easily hidden in any type of underwear or bathing suit. This is an example of a mini tummy tuck:

• Full Tummy Tuck Scars: A full tummy tuck removes loose skin and unwanted fat from both the upper and lower abdomen. This scar is placed as low as a mini tummy tuck scar but it is longer, running at least from hip to hip. For comparison, it is usually a few inches longer than a mini tummy tuck scar and it is easily hidden by underwear or a swimsuit.

• Extended Tummy Tuck Scars: An extended tummy tuck includes everything you get with a full tummy tuck but also includes the removal of loose skin around your love handles. This scar definitely extends farther back over your lower waist when compared to a full tummy tuck scar and the length depends on how much loose skin you have. Fortunately, the scar remains low, like the other types of scars so it should be covered with most types of underwear or swimsuit.

• Belly Button Scars: In a full or extended tummy tuck, an incision is also made around the belly button. This scar is extremely minimal, barely visible even on close inspection. We take care to bury this scar circumferentially so your end result is a naturally contoured belly button with no visible scar.

The Healing Phase

The scars from any tummy tuck procedure heal quickly. They start fading at 3-6 months and after one year become difficult to see. Low-cut clothing easily conceals any type of tummy tuck scar during every phase of the healing process.

The Scar Tradeoff

In my experience, our patients find that tummy tuck scars a non-issue. The transformation in their body contour and the boost in their self-confidence outweighs their presence. In some ways, these scars represent a reasonable trade-off for the dramatic, slimming, and contouring effects of a tummy tuck. And if these scars ever do become an issue or a concern, we offer every type of treatment to minimize their appearance. Laser and RF treatments, injectables, and deep needling can all help scars blend in and seemingly “disappear” over time.

When placed low and treated properly during the healing phase, tummy tuck scars are barely visible, no matter what type of tummy tuck you have. If you have questions about the different locations of tummy tuck scars, schedule a consultation with us and we can show you all the examples we offer.

View Details

Having a tummy tuck is incredibly transformative. Recovery will involve some discomfort but preparing for recovery prior to surgery will ensure you the best possible outcome. Read on for our basic and advanced tips that will absolutely improve your recovery.

Tips for Everyone

Here are our standard tips for a quicker recovery from a tummy tuck procedure:

• Pain Management – Use long-acting local anesthesia (Exparel) during surgery to minimize pain felt along the incision line. This is especially helpful for reducing discomfort in the first few days after surgery.
• Relaxation – Muscle relaxants like Valium help relax the muscles which can be repaired during this surgery. This will reduce discomfort and increase your mobility in the first week of recovery.
• Movement – Start walking as soon as possible to improve circulation, help with healing, and prevent blood clots. Avoid strenuous exercise until 4-6 weeks after surgery.
• Compression Garment/Binder – Wearing this garment for several weeks after surgery can help with swelling, stability, and support.
• Healthy Diet – Stick to a balanced diet with lots of protein and healthy fats to fuel the healing process. Avoid foods that cause gas or constipation and salty foods that cause swelling.
• Hydration – Drink plenty of fluids like water and diluted juices to stay hydrated. Proper hydration improves outcomes.
• Be Patient – Healing and results will come with time but the results are absolutely worth it! You may have periods of swelling that may persist for 3-6 months.

Although the first couple weeks of recovery can be challenging, integrating these standard tips into your recovery plan is important.

Tips for Next Level Recovery

If you want to take it to the next level of recovery, this is what we use in our office to make your recovery even better:

• A regional block, aka a TAP block, done at the time of surgery can drastically reduce discomfort for the first 2-3 days after surgery.
• HBO (Hyperbaric Oxygen) offers the best way to supercharge the healing process within the first 4 weeks of recovery. In most cases you can begin hyperbaric treatments a few days after surgery. It is especially helpful if you have areas that are slow to heal and need a little boost.
• Cryotherapy: aka cold therapy, is the most effective way to reduce inflammation and swelling once the surgical drains are removed. We highly recommend this treatment once your drains and all sutures have been removed.
• Lymphatic massage: these super specialized massage techniques are performed by a certified therapist and offer some of the best options to reduce swelling related discomfort.
• LED light therapy: is a great alternative treatment to reduce swelling, redness and even discomfort.
• IR Saunas: A good option to promote healing and reduce residual swelling after the first 6 weeks of recovery.

Temporary discomfort and downtime is expected with any surgery. So be proactive, integrate all these tips into your recovery plan and pave the way for a totally new you!

View Details

Almost everyone who has had a tummy tuck inevitably asks after surgery, “Should I still have swelling?” And the answer is categorically, “yes”. It’s normal to experience intermittent swelling and even areas of mild inflammation of your belly for up to several months after this procedure. There are many reasons this occurs but let’s discuss the treatments we use in our practice to make this a nonissue.

Swelling is Inevitable

Swelling and inflammation are inevitable after a tummy tuck, especially one paired with aggressive liposuction. This is an invasive surgery that, by design, touches almost every part of your midsection. So, it will swell. In some cases, your belly may appear even more protruded than before surgery. Don’t worry, this is only temporary. As your body’s inflammatory response works to heal the surgically treated areas, soft tissue swelling is expected for all patients. It is a necessary part of healing.

Our Comprehensive Management Plan

Our approach to postoperative swelling with tummy tucks is to hit it head-on. We use multimodality treatments to limit the development of swelling and to reduce the swelling that already exists. We mix and match the treatments below depending on your exam:

• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy: We are installing a state-of-the-art hyperbaric chamber in our office that increases oxygen delivery to the soft tissue to aid healing.
• Cryotherapy: We frequently recommend cryotherapy (cold therapy) once drains are removed to reduce inflammation.
• Lymphatic massage: Specialized massage techniques performed by a certified therapist can help reduce edema.
• Walking: One of the simplest ways to reduce swelling is to get moving with daily walks. This is mandatory for our patients.
• Rebounding: Bouncing gently on an exercise ball mobilizes fluids. Vibration plates can provide similar benefits.
• Acupuncture: Acupuncture is known to reduce post-surgical swelling and discomfort.

Swelling comes and goes in waves in the months after surgery. Some patients look fabulous fairly quickly, while others have notable swelling right after surgery. Even those that have little swelling initially can experience a flare-up a month or two later. It is hard to predict. But with diligent self-care and the integration of the treatments above, it can be managed and will fully resolve. That is a guarantee! Most importantly, we are here to support you through recovery!

View Details

If you are considering a tummy tuck, it’s natural to wonder about the recovery process. While all abdominoplasty procedures require downtime for healing, the extent can vary based on the specifics of your surgery. Read on as we break down what to expect and how the recovery differs with the three main types of tummy tucks: full, mini, and 360 with liposuction.

The Full Breakdown

A full tummy tuck is one of the most comprehensive options, as it removes the excess skin and fat from your belly while also tightening stretched belly muscles. The incision runs hip to hip and swelling and bruising are common.

• Full recovery will last at least 4 weeks
• You’ll need help with basic tasks (driving, housekeeping, childcare, etc) during the first 1-2 weeks
• After 2 weeks you can resume lighter activities but may still have some intermittent discomfort
• Plan to avoid any strenuous activities and exercise for 4-6 weeks

The Mini Breakdown

A mini tummy tuck has a shorter incision and focuses on the skin below the belly button. It removes extra skin and fat but doesn’t usually address the stretched stomach muscles. Recovery is slightly less than a full tummy tuck but the downtime is similar.

• Recovery lasts 3-4 weeks
• You can ease back into your daily routine after 2 weeks, as soreness should subside in 10-14 days
• Should wait at least 4 weeks for vigorous exercise

The 360-Degree Breakdown

The most extensive procedure is a full tummy tuck combined with 360-degree liposuction. This procedure adds liposuction that targets the fat on your flanks, upper/lower back, and sometimes your hips and thighs. The more extensive the liposuction procedure is, the more it will increase swelling, pain, and recovery time.

• Recovery lasts 4-6 weeks depending on the extent of the liposuction
• You’ll need at least 1-2 weeks off work and help with your normal daily activities
• You will be able to advance to light exercise after 4 weeks and full activity after 6-8 weeks
• Waiting 8 weeks before starting vigorous exercise is recommended

What Matters Most

There are a few factors that affect recovery far beyond the procedure type. Here is a list of the four factors that make the biggest difference:

• Muscle repair: Plicating or tightening abdominal muscles adds 1-2 weeks to recovery and is common with full tummy tucks.
• Liposuction: Even with a mini tummy tuck, adding liposuction will increase swelling and soreness, which can persist intermittently for months
• Age and overall health: Younger patients tend to bounce back quicker from surgery as they have more of a reserve. Healthier patients also, by and large, recover more quickly than those with chronic medical issues.
• The post-op plan: Failing to follow the postoperative instructions carefully will definitely slow your recovery

Is it Worth the Extra Recovery?

While it will add to your tummy tuck recovery, adding a muscle repair, and liposuction to your procedure, if indicated, is the best way to get dramatic results. So it is definitely worth it, even if it adds on more time to your recovery. With proper planning and support, you can easily get through the first few weeks and be on your way to a tighter midsection.

View Details

Education is the best preparation! With that in mind, we wanted to give you a realistic idea of what to expect during your tummy tuck recovery. As we tighten your belly muscles, and remove excess skin/fat with this procedure, it’s normal to have discomfort, swelling, and a feeling of tightness. It’s all part of your body’s healing. Preparation is essential and having a recovery plan pays dividends in the first few weeks after surgery.

By the Week Breakdown

Here’s the rundown of the recovery process:

• Week 1: The hardest part. This is when an extra set of hands is essential—whether it’s a family member, friend, or even someone you hired. Getting in and out of bed, showering, and moving around will be challenging. You will likely walk hunched over to avoid putting tension on your incisions. And your torso will feel really tight. You’ll need lots of help around the house, especially if you have young kids. Since you won’t be able to drive while on pain medication, you will need a driver! The good news is that your discomfort will be well managed with pain medicine, muscle relaxants, and our in-office treatments like HBO and LED light therapy. The bad news, sleep will most likely be fitful.
• Week 2: You’ll start turning the corner at the beginning of week 2 and feel more like yourself. Discomfort will only be intermittent. While you may still need assistance around the house and with childcare, you can likely return to most non-physical work duties. You should be able to walk more upright and your belly will feel less tight. Sleep will be much easier. And you will notice small improvements every day. Your appetite will return and you will be itching to get your drains out. Speaking of itching, the incision can start to feel itchy at this time. That is a good sign of healing but resist the urge to scratch!
• Week 3: You should be off pain medicine at his point even though you may still require muscle relaxants after more active days. Most importantly, you will feel much more like yourself and you will definitely start to turn the corner. Your belly will feel less tight and look less swollen. Warning: Some people start to swell more here. It’s hard to predict. We’ll likely remove any surgical drains, at the latest, by the end of week 3. You can perform your normal daily activities but it’s important to listen to your body. It is easy to overdo it during this week and pay the price. Take it easy and just focus on walking.
• Week 4: You may return to the gym for light exercise, easy weights and cardio. No high-intensity training yet! But you’ll be moving around well and back to most normal activities. Occasional discomfort can persist.
• Week 6: Most patients are cleared to return to all normal activities and full exercise routines by 6 weeks post-op, though it may take 8 weeks if you had a combo procedure.

The Pep Talk

The first month of a tummy tuck recovery is involved. You will have to rely on other people to help you through and it’s definitely not pain-free. But in our hands, your discomfort will be short-lived. So stay positive and remember, each week gets better. Relying on friends and family for support, using muscle relaxants as needed, and including ancillary treatments like HBO, will all help you get through the first few weeks intact. And the equation is simple: planning + preparation + effective post-operative care = a smooth recovery. Good luck!

View Details

As we age, the skin on our bellies starts to lose elasticity and sag. For many patients in their 30s, 40s, and 50s, the loose skin around their belly can be especially troublesome. While there may or may not be much associated excess fat, the loose, crepey skin can make you feel self-conscious. If you’re looking for real skin tightening results without undergoing a more involved procedure like a mini or full tummy tuck, the combination of BodyTite and Morpheus 8 can provide the best alternative results.

How BodyTite and Morpheus 8 Work

BodyTite uses radiofrequency energy to tighten and contour your skin from the inside out. In other words, it actually works underneath your skin! By inserting a small probe in strategic areas, we heat the deepest layers of your skin and soft tissue. It works really well in areas like your waist and belly. Many people struggle with unwanted belly fat and loose skin from pregnancy, weight changes, or age. BodyTite fortunately has the benefit of melting the unwanted fat and stimulating new collagen production in the deeper layers of your skin. More collagen translates to tighter skin. Morpheus 8 is a novel fractional skin resurfacing treatment that is applied to the outside of your skin. Using microneedling technology, it creates microinjuries to your skin which signals your body to also produce new collagen and elastin. This leads to further tightening and smoothing of your skin’s texture.

Supercharge Your Skin Tightening Results

When BodyTite is paired with Morpheus 8, its industry-leading skin-tightening effects are supercharged. This is especially true for loose skin on the lower belly. In just one treatment, your belly can be noticeably lifted and tightened. The internal heating of BodyTite jumpstarts the rejuvenation process, while the Morpheus 8 further potentiates the results. As these are awake, in-office procedures, you will have much less downtime and recovery than a tummy tuck. The results can be dramatic but the final improvements take a few months to be fully realized. For anyone wanting a tight, toned belly without the risks and recovery of a more powerful tummy tuck, BodyTite, and Morpheus 8 are game-changing treatments. It is a great secondary option so contact our office to see if you may be a candidate for this alternative combo therapy.

View Details

I think it is important to provide a brief overview of some of the latest options we offer patients looking to contour their bodies and tighten loose skin. This is especially helpful if you are also considering a Tummy Tuck procedure. Understanding your treatment options is especially important when you want to treat that annoying loose skin on your belly.

The Tummy Tuck Alternatives

One of the most popular procedures we offer in our clinic is liposuction combined with energy-based technologies. We refer to this as energy-assisted liposuction. It uses technologies like laser, ultrasound, or radiofrequency energy to help break up and remove fat while also stimulating collagen production in the skin for tightening. It leads to less bruising and swelling compared to traditional liposuction. The results can be remarkable. Some of the specific techniques we use include:

• BodyTite: This pairs internal and external radiofrequency energy with liposuction for fat removal and skin tightening. The heat stimulates new collagen growth leading to firmer, smoother skin in the treated areas.
• SmartLipo: This uses a laser fiber delivered through a cannula to liquefy fat before it’s suctioned out. The laser energy also tightens skin. There is less bleeding and bruising with SmartLipo compared to traditional liposuction.
• VASER Lipo: This uses ultrasound energy to selectively break up and emulsify fat before it’s removed with gentle suction. Like the other energy-assisted methods, it also promotes skin tightening through collagen stimulation.

BodyTite Compared to a Tummy Tuck

While these technologies are excellent at providing some degree of skin tightening, a surgical procedure like a tummy tuck remains the gold standard for dramatic, longer-lasting tightening of loose belly skin. During a tummy tuck, excess skin and fat are surgically removed and the abdominal muscles are tightened. Results are transformative, with what feels like 100% or more skin tightening in the treated areas. BodyTite is the most effective energy-assisted liposuction option but it only offers, at best, a 30% improvement in skin tightening. So there really is no comparison.

The Skin Tightening Summary

Energy-assisted liposuction with definitely give you some skin tightening improvements. Of the current options on the market, BodyTite is the most powerful. But a surgical tummy tuck can provide the most dramatic, long-lasting tightening, especially for those of you with a lot of excess, sagging skin.

I’m happy to discuss which option may be right for your unique needs and goals. Schedule a consult with us today.

View Details

As a board-certified plastic surgeon, I wanted to clear up some confusion about liposuction and tummy tucks. You may have seen ads claiming liposuction gives the same results as a tummy tuck – this is simply not true.

The BodyTite Difference

Technologies like BodyTite, which we offer in our office, are really transformative. BodyTite uses radiofrequency energy to tighten the skin and melt the fat. By combining it with liposuction we can sculpt any area of your body and really improve the contour. It’s like supercharging a liposuction procedure. And to be honest, I rarely do a liposuction procedure anymore without the addition of BodyTite. It really is that important to my practice and the best part, we can do these procedures in our office, with you awake. So it is a win-win.

30% Does Not Equal 100%

But the real problem lies with loose skin. BodyTite is really good at tightening skin but only partially. Per our experience, the maximum skin-tightening effect of BodyTite around the belly is around 30%. Full tummy tucks offer 100% skin tightening or more – so there’s really no comparison. So, if you have BOTH loose skin and excess fat on your belly, BodyTite alone is probably not the answer.

Important Differences

• The key difference is that liposuction removes fat but cannot cut or remove excess skin. Tummy tucks surgically remove excess skin and tighten underlying muscles for dramatic reshaping of the abdomen.
• Liposuction may tighten skin slightly by bringing it closer to the muscle layer after fat removal. But it cannot remove large amounts of loose, hanging skin.
• In fact, removing a lot of fat without removing excess skin can make looseness even worse. The more fat that is taken out, the more skin may hang and look distorted.
• Some patients opt for liposuction knowing they’ll still have some loose skin afterward. If the goal is better clothes fitting without a perfectly taut abdomen, this may be reasonable. But it’s important to understand liposuction does not equal a tummy tuck in terms of skin tightening.
• Adding on BodyTite to belly liposuction can give you up to 30% more skin tightening when compared to liposuction alone but that is often not enough to tighten the preexisting loose skin.
• The bottom line is liposuction and tummy tucks are different procedures entirely. While there may be some overlap in appropriate candidates, they cannot substitute for one another. Claims that liposuction gives the same results as a tummy tuck are simply marketing hype, not medical reality.

Contact my office today to learn more about how we can define your belly with either BodyTite, Tummy Tuck, or both!

View Details

For those of you struggling with loose belly skin or stubborn fat after pregnancy, with weight changes, or from aging, you may be considering surgery. Even though a tummy tuck is the gold standard treatment for belly issues, BodyTite can also produce dramatic results in the right patients. In regards to tummy tucks, It’s always good to consider alternative options. A ‘cookie cutter’ approach that doesn’t take into account your unique presentation may subject you to more surgery than you need. So what are your options and are you a candidate for something less invasive? This blog article will be a helpful guide to answer those questions.

One Size Does Not Fit All

When it comes to treating belly issues, one size does not fit all. There are outliers – like women who have fairly tight skin after multiple pregnancies. These patients often only need a little liposuction to look better. We see this a lot in our clinic. For others, a full tummy tuck may be indicated but having formal surgery is non-negotiable and they are searching for an alternative. Many fall somewhere in between and they are candidates for all types of procedures. It can be a bit confusing!

What are my options?

The options include:

• Liposuction alone to reduce abdominal fat
• BodyTite to firm skin and melt fat in the lower abdomen
• A mini tummy tuck to treat just below the belly button and above the pubic area
• A full tummy tuck to address loose skin of the entire abdomen with belly button repositioning

The Evaluation

While BodyTite is less invasive, a tummy tuck removes excess skin and repairs separated muscles for the flattest possible result. During your consultation, I’ll perform a thorough exam to determine if you are a BodyTite candidate or if a tummy tuck is required. The goal is for your clothing to fit better and reveal an enhanced shape. For some patients, residual loose skin after tightening is acceptable. While genetics play a role in skin elasticity, I’ve seen dramatic transformations in all types of bodies with BodyTite alone.

Are you a Candidate?

These are the characteristics that we look for that are the best candidates for BodyTite as an alternative for the treatment of belly issues:

• Fat is more of an issue than loose skin
• Only mild to moderate loose skin
• Loose skin and fat are more of an issue in the lower belly
• No stretch marks
• Needs 360-degree lipo-sculpting

BodyTite May be Right For You

Rather than seeking out a one-size-fits-all procedure, you should approach your options with an open mind. Try to envision the changes you want to see and we’ll develop a customized plan. For many of our patients, BodyTite treatment alone can help them realize their goals. Most importantly, it has helped many of our patients look and feel their very best without needing a tummy tuck.

View Details

With so many different types of tummy tucks available, how do you know which one is right for you? The guide below gives you an overview of the types of tummy tucks we offer and discusses the problem areas that each option solves.

What a Tummy Tuck Can Actually FixNot all tummy tucks are the same. There are many different variations of tummy tuck procedures that address a variety of issues along your belly and torso. But, in general, all tummy tucks have the potential to address five main issues:

• Loose or sagging skin of the upper and/or lower belly
• Excess and persistant subcutaneous belly fat
• Fat along the waist and lower back
• Split or stretched out stomach muscles
• Visible stretch marks, primarily of the lower belly

Not every type of tummy tuck addresses these five main issues similarly. Therefore, it is important to look through this guide and find the option that best treats your problem areas. Make sure to check out the before and after examples as they will give you a good visual example of how the type of tummy tuck addressed your specific issue. Also, it is important to understand why you need a tummy tuck in the first place. Pregnancy, weight loss and aging all present with different challenges. For example:

• A post-pregnancy tummy is designed to address the specific changes from pregnancy including excess skin, stretch marks and split stomach muscles. In most cases, a full tummy tuck offers the best way to fix the stomach muscles and remove stretch marks at the same time.
• A post weight loss tummy tuck is designed to remove as much skin as needed. For those of you with notable weight loss, greater than 50 pounds, a full tummy tuck may not offer enough skin removal. In these cases, you often have to consider more involved procedures, including a fleur-de-lis tummy tuck, a tummy tuck with belt lipectomy or an extended tummy tuck. All of these options remove more loose skin than a mini or full tummy tuck.
• A tummy tuck that addresses age related changes should address loose skin of the lower belly and unwanted fat of the waist and lower back. A mini or full tummy tuck combined with 360 degree liposuction is a great option for age related issues.

What Are My Options?

To better understand the options, it is important to first look at the three main types of tummy tucks that we offer. From less to more invasive, this includes a mini/short incision tummy tuck, a full tummy tuck or a full tummy tuck with 360 degree liposuction. In simplified terms, a full tummy tuck is recommended for those of you who have loose skin and resistant fat in both the upper and lower belly. In contrast, a mini tummy tuck will only address the problems in your lower belly, at or below the belly button. So if you have a lot of loose skin and excess fat of the entire belly, a mini is probably not for you. Both a mini or full tummy tuck can be combined with 360 degree lipo to improve the results and address your contour in 360 degree fashion. Lastly, for those who have a notable amount of loose skin and fat, a more involved procedure may be required.

Mini Tummy Tuck

A mini tummy tuck, aka short incision abdominoplasty, primarily targets your lower belly, below your belly button. It is important to remember that a mini tummy tucks can treat:

• Loose, sagging skin below your belly button
• Stretch marks, but only partially, of the lower abdomen
• Unwanted fat, primarily on the lower abdomen
• Separation of the abdominal muscles

This is a great option if you only need improvement in the lower half of your belly. It has the benefit of having a shorter incision than a full tummy tuck while still being able to remove excess skin and fat. It can also tighten stretched stomach muscles, but in those cases, the belly button would have to be repositioned. This is a good example of a mini tummy tuck before and after:

Full Tummy Tuck

A full tummy tuck, aka full abdominoplasty, covers the whole belly area – from your lower chest to your pubic bone. This surgery removes more skin, fat and stretch marks than a mini tummy tuck. It also offers the best way to tighten your stretched muscles from pregnancy, weight changes and aging. It is a great option for those who have significant loose skin and excess fat, as well as muscle looseness. The incision for a full tummy tuck is typically made from hip to hip. It is important to remember that a full tummy tuck can treat:

• Loose, sagging skin, above, below, and around the belly button
• Stretched stomach muscles, and it is the best approach for this repair
• Resistant fat throughout the belly
• Stretch marks below and partially above the belly button

During surgery, an incision is made across your lower abdomen, remaining below the bikini line. Even though the incision is longer than a mini tummy tuck, it is easily concealed. For those of you with top to bottom belly issues, this is the best option to get a flatter, firmer look. Check out this before and after example of a full tummy tuck:

Full Tummy Tuck with 360 Degree Liposuction

A tummy tuck is by far the best way to flatten a poochy belly. But what do you do about the rest of your toros, including your love handles, waist, hips, and lower back? It obviously wouldn’t make much sense to only improve your front, and not address your sides and back. That’s like only doing half the surgery! A tummy tuck with 360 degree lipo takes a more holistic approach and treats your entire torso, circumferentially. It is the best way to optimize a standard tummy tuck and it can treat:

• Everything that a standard tummy tuck procedure addresses
• The bulges along your sides and lower back, aka the “spare tire” area
• Your torso, in 360-degree fashion

As with a standard tummy tuck, an incision is made across your lower abdomen, remaining below the bikini line. There are also a few very small incisions, less than a ⅕ of an inch, that will be used for liposuction along your hips, waist and your back. These will also be well hidden in the underwear line and barely visible after surgery. For those of you with top to bottom belly issues AND contour issues along your waist, hips and back, this is the best option for contouring these areas in 360 degree fashion. Check out this before and after example of a full tummy tuck with 360 degree lipo:

Extended vs. Fluer-de-lis vs. Belt Lipectomy

If you have a significant amount of excess skin around the midsection, an extended abdominoplasty may be required. This procedure:

• Removes loose, excess skin around most of the lower torso
• Can powerfully contour the abdomen, waistline and hips
• Eliminates a much larger amount of fat and excess skin, especially along the waist

In addition to the standard tummy tuck incision, an extended tummy tuck involves an incision that extends around to the back, addressing trouble spots, including the waist.

Often used after significant weight loss, a fleur-de-lis tummy tuck involves two incisions – one across the lower abdomen and one vertically in the midline. This allows for complete removal of loose skin. It also effectively tightens abdominal muscles and slims the waistline. This procedure:

• Offers the best way to remove moderate to severe loose belly skin
• It has the downside of having a difficult to hide midline belly scar
• Of all the tummy tucks, this has the most transformative results

A belt lipectomy can be added onto a full tummy tuck to supercharge the results. This option addresses your midsection in a 360 degree fashion and circumferentially removes loose skin and excess fat. This procedure:

• Has the longest recovery of all the tummy tuck options
• Can and is often combined with a body lift and a BBL
• Offers the most powerful way to contour your hips and lower back

The Final Skinny on Tummy Tuck Options

The ideal tummy tuck for you depends on your goals, your concerns and most importantly, your exam. We hope that you use this guide to look at your belly in a more educated way. Getting factual information on tummy tuck procedures is necessary and can be revealing. In many cases, what you thought you needed is not what you actually need. Understanding your options is the best way to empower yourself to move forward. Most importantly, set up a consultation with us to see which option is best for you.

View Details

A tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, dramatically improves the appearance of your belly and waist. With one transformative surgery, it removes your excess belly fat and skin, tightens your stomach muscles and contours your waist, hips and back. But how do you know if you’re a good candidate for this procedure? To help you decide if you are a candidate, let’s first go over the issues that a tummy tuck addresses, the reasons our patients chose this surgery and their most common misconceptions. We’ll also review the clinical and lifestyle related reasons that may prohibit you from being a good candidate for this procedure.

Do You Have These Issues?

Although there are many different types of tummy tuck procedures, they all address these four main issues, in some form or fashion:

• Loose or sagging skin of your upper and/or lower belly
• Resistant pockets of fat of your belly, waist and lower back
• Stretched out stomach muscles, aka recuts diastasis
• Visible stretch marks, primarily of your lower belly

Do you have one or more of these issues? Are you frustrated because your focus on diet and exercise isn’t making these issues better? Do you want a defintive change, one that transforms the appearance of your belly, waist and lower back? If the answer is ”yes”, you are likely a candidate for a tummy tuck procedure. What type we recommend will depend on your clinical exam and your overall aesthetic goals.

Reasons We Perform a Tummy Tuck

In our practice, we perform tummy tucks for a variety of reasons. Here are the most common ones our patients present with:

• Pregnancy related changes: Pregnancy stretches the belly skin and stomach muscles, causing a protruding belly appearance. Exercises like crunches are helpful but can’t repair your stomach muscles back into their pre-pregnancy position. Similarity, post-pregnancy weight loss is beneficial but often won’t completely solve loose skin. A tummy tuck repairs your stomach muscles, putting them back into an anatomically correct position. It also removes loose belly skin, including pregnancy related stretch marks, especially below your belly button.
• A history of weight loss: With significant weight loss, usually greater than 50 lbs, there can be a lot of excess skin that can’t be tightened with exercise, diet or even internal and external skin tightening treatments. A standard or more involved tummy tuck (fluer de lis, extended and belt lipectomy) can remove a majority of the excess skin in circumferential fashion.
• Age related changes: Age and genetic related issues of the belly are often most noticeable along the lower belly and waist. A tummy tuck is great at removing the excess skin and fat in this area, especially if the torso is treated circumferentially, using 360 degree liposuction.

Top Tummy Tuck Misconceptions

There are a lot of misconceptions about what a tummy tuck can actually accomplish and who is a candidate. So lets clear up a few of them.

• It’s a weight loss surgery: A tummy tuck is not weight loss surgery. It is a surgery that removes excess belly skin and fat while also tightening stretched stomach muscles. But a tummy tuck is not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle. It is only additive and you still have to do the hard work before and after surgery.
• It’s only for moms: Tummy tucks are not just a great option for women who have been pregnant. Both men and women are candidates for this procedure, especially those who have lost a significant amount of weight or have age related changes. Removing loose belly skin that is resistant to diet and exercise is a great reason to have a tummy tuck.
• It’s only for younger patients: Anyone who is unhappy with the appearance of their abdomen may be a candidate for a tummy tuck, regardless of age. We have patients, from their 20s to their 80s who undergo tummy tuck procedures. You just have to be healthy enough for surgery.
• It’s a one and done procedure: While the results of a tummy tuck are long-lasting, age related changes are unavoidable long-term after surgery. It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle to ensure that the results last as long as possible.

Your Baseline Health Status Matters

Along with having the belly issues we discussed earlier, having good overall health status is equally as important when deciding if you are a candidate for a tummy tuck procedure. Remember, these are elective surgeries. It is important to maximize your health before considering a surgery that is not medically necessary. Here are some of the common reasons you may not be a good candidate for this procedure:

• Diabetes, especially if uncontrolled. Our cutoff is a HgbA1C greater than 6.5
• High blood pressure, especially with a baseline systolic blood pressure greater than 150
• Short or long term obesity. The defintive cutoff in our office is a BMI over 30
• Having a condition that requires blood thinners, aka anticoagulation, like deep vein thrombosis, a history of stroke or atrial fibrillation
• Having a condition that requires chronic steroids or immunomodulating medications that can effect wound healing like rheumatoid arthritis
• Any medical issue that would preclude you from undergoing general anesthesia, including a history of heart or lung disease
• Chronic anemia or low blood levels from blood or absorption based conditions
• Recent history of smoking or vaping

Your Support During Recovery Also Matters

Before considering a tummy tuck, you first have to make sure you have the necessary help for it’s recovery. These procedures involve a recovery that has a significant amount of downtime so going into this recovery alone is not a realistic option. Good candidates for tummy tucks have full time assistance, day and night, during the first few weeks after surgery. This is what we recommend for our patients during the first 3 weeks after surgery:

• Week 1: You’ll need assistance with daily activities, especially with lifting, walking and going to the bathroom. You won’t be able to drive and you should plan on taking this week off most work duties. Family and friend support is key here. Full time child care is necessary
• Week 2: You will still need assistance with daily activities but you are more mobile. Being off pain medications for an extended duration is required for you to drive. That means you have to be pain free which is uncommon this early in recovery. You can begin work duties but not physical ones. You still need help with child care.
• Week 3: You are finally feeling more like yourself but you will still need help around the house with physical duties like cleaning, laundry and cooking. Childcare is doable but driving may still be difficult. You are still not working out.

You Are a Candidate, Now What?

The decision of whether a tummy tuck is right for you is complex but what makes you a good candidate for this procedure is fairly straight forward. If you struggle with one of the four issues we previously discussed (loose skin, stretched muscles, too much belly fat and stretch marks) and you are healthy enough for elective surgery, you are likely a candidate. The recovery from a tummy tuck is doable but not easy so you will need to have a legitimate recovery plan in place before proceeding. And remember, you will have to take time off work, up to 2 weeks in most cases. With realistic expectations and proper preparation, a tummy tuck is an amazingly transformative surgery. Now, all you have left to do is schedule a consult with our office today and start planning!

View Details

Many of us think that if we just worked out more and did more crunches, cardio or pilates, then we could avoid needing a tummy tuck. However, the truth is that exercising more will not fix the issues that a tummy tuck is designed to address, like repairing the unwanted changes to the belly from pregnancy, weight gain and aging.

Resistant to Exercise? Really?

Here is a list of all the belly issues that exercise alone will not fix:

• Split Abdominal Muscles – Doing endless crunches cannot repair a diastasis recti, or split abdominal muscles. This condition occurs when the connective tissue between your vertically oriented belly muscles stretches and separates. Contrary to popular belief, more sit-ups will not magically bring those muscles back together, only surgery can.
• Stretched Out Skin – Significant weight loss, pregnancy, and aging all cause loose skin. Once your skin is stretched out, no amount of exercise, creams, or skin tightening treatments will return your skin back to its youthful state. In comparison, a tummy tuck surgically removes excess skin restoring tightness to your entire belly.
• Stretch Marks – Stretch marks will not diminish or go away with exercise. A tummy tuck is the only way to remove the damaged skin of the lower belly that contains stretch marks.
• Lower Belly Pooch – Core strengthening exercises can improve your body contour but they have little impact on the lower belly soft tissue. Liposuction is a great option for a lower belly pooch but it will not address loose skin. A tummy tuck offers the only definitive way to transform the appearance of your lower belly when you struggle with both excess fat AND loose skin.

The Takeaway

There are limits to what exercise can accomplish, especially for legitimate concerns like splitting of your belly muscles, loose belly skin, and stretch marks. Surgery is often the only definitive solution. So if you’ve tried everything and the problem persists, don’t feel guilty about considering a tummy tuck. It doesn’t mean you’ve failed or given up. It simply acknowledges that the issue has progressed beyond what diet and exercise alone can fix.

View Details

Thinking of getting a tummy tuck but worried about the risks? While all surgeries have some risk, a tummy tuck is considered an extremely safe procedure in the hands of a qualified board-certified plastic surgeon.

The Risk Breakdown

Here’s why you can feel confident about your safety when undergoing this transformative surgery:

• Less complications. A tummy tuck has a very low risk of life-threatening complications. Serious risks from a tummy tuck are extremely rare, especially when compared to the risks we all take during our daily activities, like driving. Most importantly, reputable surgeons and surgical facilities prioritize patient safety above all else. Risk mitigation is their top priority.
• Shorter procedure time. A tummy tuck takes 2-3 hours typically, which is an average amount of time for a body contouring procedure. This is a very safe amount of time under anesthesia and even if that time is extended to 4-6 hours, as we do with mommy makeovers, the procedure time is still lower than compared to more complex surgeries.
• Lower anesthesia doses. Plastic surgeons and anesthesiologists work together to lower the doses of anesthesia you receive during a tummy tuck. In reality, these doses are much lower than the doses used during orthopedic procedures or other complex surgeries. The types of anesthetics needed for a tummy tuck are also less caustic and are cleared from your body quickly. With the addition of long lasting local and regional anesthesia, like a TAP block for example, you can further reduce the need for anesthetics that have unwanted side effects.
• Mobility after surgery. Patients are encouraged to get up and move around in the early days after surgery to prevent blood clots and infection. This focus on early mobility can really boost your recovery by increasing circulation and encouraging lymphatic drainage. and ensures that you heal without unwanted complications.
• Younger patient demographic. Most tummy tuck patients are under 50. Younger people typically have lower overall surgical risks, more energy, better support systems, and greater resilience to bounce back after surgery. This is a huge positive for surgeries like this which can have increased postoperative discomfort and tightness.
• Manageable risks. Common risks like infection, isolated bleeding, seroma and scar formation are rare but manageable if they occur. Sticking to a comprehensive postoperative plan. This will help you avoid these types of complications while ensuring the quickest recovery.

Be Confident in Your Decision

While no surgery is risk-free, a tummy tuck performed by a board certified plastic surgeon is considered a low risk procedure. If you take your time to find the right surgeon, follow all their pre and post-op instructions, you can feel confident about your decision.

View Details

How much is a good erection worth? That’s a question millions of men are faced with every year, and pharmaceutical and mail order companies are hoping the answer is a lot. It’s estimated that over $1 billion is spent annually on the top three ED drugs alone. Are pills really the best most cost-effective option […]

View Details

Making your breasts larger by using your own fat may sound too good to be true but this is not a plastic surgery urban myth, it’s reality! Fat grafting to the breasts is gaining in popularity as technology advances and more women are seeking a natural alternative to breast augmentation with silicone or saline breast […]

View Details

Morning wood, or nocturnal penile tumescence (NPT), is a good indicator of healthy blood supply and nerves to the penis. Morning erections usually start around puberty and increase in frequency into adulthood. What causes morning erections, and should you be concerned if you aren’t experiencing morning wood?What causes ‘Morning Wood’?While the exact cause(s) of morning […]

View Details

The ads are everywhere. You can’t even listen to NFL radio without hearing them: ForHims, Roman, Lemonade, it seems everyone needs ED medication. But are pills really the answer for better erections and more importantly, better sex? On the surface pills might seem like a great idea, you don’t even need to leave your couch or […]

View Details

Although Tummy Tucks are one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures we offer, many people don't know what it is or if they actually need one.  But we are here to help. You've got questions, we've got answers! This blog article will walk you through the ins and outs of a Tummy Tuck including […]

View Details

A Tummy Tuck, aka an Abdominoplasty, is an amazing surgery.  With one powerful procedure, you can fully transform your belly and waist. One of the real reasons this surgery is so transformative is that it fixes stretched and misaligned stomach muscles (aka Rectus Diastasis). With this condition, core muscles are weakened.  This leads to lower […]

View Details

Here is a 6-month postoperative photo from a recent Mommy Makeover surgery which included a Tummy Tuck. It is an amazing transformation for our patient who worked really hard after pregnancy to lose the extra weight and improve her appearance. Her main complaint after pregnancy was the appearance of her belly.  She lost a lot […]

View Details

What kind of skin care does a plastic surgeon recommend? Do treatments like stem cells and vampire facials really work? Taking care of your skin is the key to aging gracefully but there are so many products and scams out there that it’s hard to know what works and what’s a waste of money. Don’t […]

View Details

Blepharoplasty or eyelid surgery is one of the most common plastic surgeries sought out by both women and men. What makes a person a candidate for this procedure? Well, pretty much anyone who has loose skin above and/or below the their eyes. In some cases a “hooded eye” can interfere with one’s sight and can […]

View Details

Amy surprises Dr. Martin with a pop quiz using the web’s most searched questions about plastic surgery. Are plastic surgeons rich? Do plastic surgeons use plastic? You may be surprised what people ask google when they are curious about plastic surgery. Comments, questions, clarifications? Leave a voicemail 303-630-9038 Sponsored by: Let’s Get Checked (https://trylgc.com/beauty code: beauty20)

View Details

Is it possible to enlarge breasts without implants? There are a number of techniques out there from fat transfer to unusual contraptions, but do they work? Can you get the same results without a breast augmentation using implants. The answers may surprise you. Dr. Martin and Amy talk about the procedures that are being used […]

View Details

What are the most popular plastic surgery procedures? Do women get more plastic surgery than men? What parts of the United States do the most plastic surgeries? Let’s check the statistics! Dr. Martin and Amy geek out on the plastic surgery statistics put out this year by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Comments, questions, clarifications? […]

View Details

When it comes to surgery, can you trust what you watch on YouTube? Dr. Martin and Amy are back to talk about some recent studies that caught their attention. One study is an assessment of the quality of information in aesthetic surgery videos on YouTube, and the other is on epigenome environment interactions. It’s time […]

View Details

CoolSculpt, Contura, Morpheus8, VivaRF, AccuTite, SmartLipo, Vaser, and on and on! It’s hard to keep track of all the devices used for tightening skin. Are the results different with non-invasive options compared to invasive options? Is the recovery different? How do they all compare to cosmetic surgery? The answers may surprise you. Dr. Martin and […]

View Details

It’s time to talk about Dr. Martin’s favorite surgery! Rhinoplasty or nose job is a highly complex procedure of millimeters and takes an expert surgeon to preform correctly. A Rhinoplasty can also be paired with a Septoplasty or Nasal Airway Surgery to improve breathing through the nose. Dr. Martin and Amy breakdown the anatomy of […]

View Details

There aren't many cosmetic procedures or surgeries that offer a more positive impact on your Quality of Life (QoL) than a Breast Reduction. It is amazing how transformative this surgery is and how truly life changing it can be.  A big part of this transformative effect is that this surgery improves you both functionally and […]

View Details

Pregnancy, weight gain and loss, and aging, can all change the appearance of your belly, hips, and lower back.  Often these changes are frustratingly resistant to diet and exercise. Whether you have loose skin, stretch marks, stretched muscles, or just excess fat, there are surgical and non-surgical options available to improve the appearance of your […]

View Details

With so many surgical and non surgical options available, choosing the best option to address your thighs can be a challenge. The completely non-invasive options like Morpheus8 and CoolSculpt lure us in with their promise of ‘no downtime’.  More powerful minimally invasive options offer more improvement with some downtime. Formal surgery offers the most transformative […]

View Details

Yes, really!  We have specialized in awake in-office body contouring over the past 10 years and  the majority of people we see are candidates for an in-office procedure. While it may not be the ‘lunch time’ procedure you’ve heard about, it is a much less stressful way to contour and improve your body. Here are […]

View Details

Liposuction is a great way to address those frustrating pockets of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise. It is truly a powerful procedure with one of the highest satisfaction rates among our patients.  But Liposuction is not without its challenges. It is important for anyone considering Liposuction to know that it does have […]

View Details

Am I a good candidate for arm lift surgery? Most likely, yes.  If you are healthy, without medical issues and have fat and/or loose skin of the upper arms, you will likely be a good candidate for this surgery.  In our clinic, we treat men and women who are concerned with visible fat and loose […]

View Details

If you are considering a Rhinoplasty, aka Nose Job, you may be concerned that you won’t look like yourself after surgery.  We get it and I think it is completely understandable. When you consider examples of this surgery in popular culture, most of the things that pop into your head aren’t good.  If someone has […]

View Details

The goal of a Rhinoplasty, aka Nose Job is fairly straightforward: it is a surgery to make your nose look better.  But beyond that, the surgery can be confusing. The structures of the nose are quite complex and it is rare to find anyone who has a good understanding of it’s anatomy.  I personally find […]

View Details

Really!  A majority of our Upper Eyelid Tucks and Brow Lifts are completed in the office, awake and with local anesthesia. Why do we like this approach? In-office surgery has many benefits.  First, it avoids the extra expense of an operating room and anesthesiologist. Secondly, it limits the postoperative sickness people often struggle with after […]

View Details

Deciding if you need a Brow Lift or Eyelid Tuck is not always so straight forward.  Many of the issues that people blame on heavy eyebrows are actually from too much upper eyelid skin. In these instances, an Eyelid Tuck can fix the problem and a Brow Lift isn’t necessary. And the reverse is also […]

View Details

Prominent ears can make it really difficult for kids to socially navigate through the early years.  From the standpoint of their psychosocial development, the negative effects are real and well documented.  Teasing and bullying can lead to a negative self image, especially at a time that often has long lasting effects..  Therefore, for parents with […]

View Details

Ear Pinning surgery is an amazing transformative procedure that in the right hands, has a great risk to reward ratio.  With this procedure the reward (result) is high and the risks are extremely low. For those of you considering this surgery you should be confident that your, or your loved ones, results will be exceptional […]

View Details

There’s a lot of talk out there about “boosting” the immune system with supplements, but the secret to a strong immunity is homeostasis. Your body is constantly working to fight off illness and keep you healthy and it does this by keeping your highly complex immune system in balance. Dr. Martin and Amy talk about […]

View Details

Did you know good quality sleep is as important to your health as diet and exercise? These days we tend not to make sleep a priority in our lives but being sleep deprived is damaging to many parts of the body and brain.Do you look at your phone in bed? Are you too hot or […]

View Details

Beauty and the SurgeonBeauty and the Surgeon is an educational and empowering podcast that delves into all aspects of cosmetic surgery, plastic surgery, aesthetic medicine, beauty, fitness and personal health. Dr. Jason Martin is a renowned board certified plastic surgeon with offices in Aspen and Denver, Colorado.Listen to: 'We Answer Listener Questions' Shelter in place […]

View Details

This before and after photo shows how well Facetite works for the excess skin and fat that accumulates directly underneath your chin and jawline with age. Facetite is our first line treatment for most aging problems of the neck.  It is an in office awake procedure that can rejuvenate many parts of your face and […]

View Details

We often combine FaceTite with Morpheus8 to supercharge the results.  We did that in this case and the 2 month results are amazing.  This combination treatment, named EmbraceRF, works amazingly well for those of you who want an alternative to a Neck Lift.    A few things: This procedure was completed in the office, awake, with […]

View Details

Although recovery times can vary with a Nose Job surgery, in general it will take you: Up to 1 week to get back on your feet and return to normal daily activities (In most cases you will have a splint placed over the bridge of your nose during this time) 1-2 weeks to return to […]

View Details

he best option for prominent ears: Ear Pinning (aka Otoplasty) The way our ear develops before birth is fairly miraculous.  Small little outcroppings called hillocks coalesce together during development and make what we know after birth as our ear.  And make no mistake, our ear is very complex.  It has three main regions that include […]

View Details

“Even though getting older is something to celebrate, the joy of another year is often lessened by the changes we see on the outside” : A guide to making the appearance of your eyes, match the age that you feel on the inside. It can be extremely frustrating to watch the appearance of your eyes […]

View Details

This video shows the results of a full Face and Neck Lift, 2 weeks after surgery.  She was thrilled with her results and barely had any residual bruising and swelling at this appointment.  Here are few things you need to know about our approach to a Face and Neck Lift:  Aging of the face and […]

View Details

“Small changes over time definitely add up to big changes in the mirror” : a guide to making your outside appearance match the age that you feel on the inside. It can be extremely frustrating to watch your face and neck change with age, especially between your 40s and 60s. FYI, if this is you […]

View Details

I know I need a Face and Necklift surgery but I am really concerned about the appearance of the scars.  What should I do????? Discuss where the surgical scars are located and how they differ among the different types of Face and Necklift surgeries Discuss ways that we manage scars after surgery.   Hands down, a […]

View Details

All you need to know about recovering from breast reduction surgery? Most are surprised to learn that recovery from breast reduction surgery is one of the easier ones in plastic surgery.  Pain is rarely a problem and it is easily managed with pain medications and supportive undergarments after surgery.  Return to normal activities occurs quicker […]

View Details

The things you need to know about breast reduction surgery and scars. Locations of the surgical scars  Minimizing scars after surgery Breast reduction surgery offers one of the most amazing physical and mental transformations in the field of plastic surgery. But how can a surgery that has so much potential for change, cause such concern?  […]

View Details

How do breast lifts work Step-by-step outline of what goes on during a breast lift Steps of recovery  For non-plastic surgeons out there, it is hard to fully understand how many of the cosmetic surgeries that we offer in our office work.  A breast lift falls into that category.  Somehow, someway, when you get breast […]

View Details

Breast Lift and Breastfeeding Is breastfeeding after a breast lift still possible Should you wait for a breast lift after you are done having children or under what circumstances can you get one before Pregnancy is wonderful, but what is not wonderful is how pregnancy changes your breast.  The combination of swelling with pregnancy and […]

View Details

All you need to know about recovering from breast lift surgery Most are surprised to learn that recovery from breast reduction surgery is not difficult.  Pain is rarely a problem and it is easily managed with pain medications and supportive undergarments after surgery.  Return to normal activities occurs quicker than other types of breast surgeries […]

View Details

The things you need to know about breast lift surgery and scars. Locations of the surgical scars  Solutions for  minimizing these scars after surgery Breast lift surgery offers one of the most amazing physical and mental transformations in the field of plastic surgery. But how can a surgery that has so much potential for change, […]

View Details

A tuberous breasts deformity (TBD) is a difficult problem to treat. Women with TBD have breasts that don’t develop normally from birth, often look very asymmetric and have breasts that appear tight and spread apart.  Our patient in this video presented with a mild tuberous breast deformity (TBD) that actually worsened after pregnancy.  We chose […]

View Details

Which Breast Implants are best for me? Even with a plastic surgeon helping you with your decision, deciding which type, style, shape and size of breast implants to use with your breast augmentation surgery is confusing and really nerve racking.  Therefore, to make you more confident and to reduce your anxiety with this decision, we […]

View Details

Tell me about Breast Augmentation Scars Locations of surgical scars Solutions for minimizing scars after surgery We really love doing breast augmentation surgery and one of the most common questions we get asked in our clinic is where are the scars located? Although the placement of the short scar (2 inches or less) in breast […]

View Details

This video shows BodyTite and Morpheus8 in action, treating and tightening the loose skin around our patient’s belly. 3 months after her treatment, the amount of skin tightening per the pinch test is truly remarkable.  One of the reasons we were able to achieve such a dramatic result is that we supercharged her BodyTite procedure […]

View Details

All you need to know about recovering from Thigh Lift surgery? Most are surprised to learn that recovery from Thigh Lift surgery is not as painful as what was imagined.  In actuality, pain is rarely an issue.  Don’t get me wrong, you definitely feel it but any pain after this surgery is easily managed with […]

View Details

I know I need a Thigh Lift surgery but I am really concerned about the appearance of the scars.  What do I need to know????? Discuss where the surgical scars are located and how they differ among the different types of Thigh Lift surgeries Discuss ways that we manage scars after surgery.   Hands down, a […]

View Details

All you need to know about recovering from arm lift surgery? Most are surprised to learn that recovery from arm lift surgery is easier than what is imagined.  Pain is rarely a problem.  Don’t get me wrong, it can be uncomfortable but any pain after this surgery is easily managed with pain medications and supportive […]

View Details

I know I need an arm lift surgery but I am really concerned about the appearance of the scars.  What should I do????? Where the surgical scars are located and how they differ among the different types of arm lift surgeries Ways that we manage scars after surgery.   Hands down, a full upper arm lift […]

View Details

This is footage from an actual case to treat gynecomastia (aka male breasts).  This video actually shows you the immediate post operative results.  As you can see, it is an amazingly transformative procedure and our patient was extremely pleased with the outcome.  We complete almost all of these cases in our office, under local anesthesia, […]

View Details

All you need to know about recovering from gynecomastia surgery? Most are surprised to learn that recovery from gynecomastia surgery is one of the easier ones in plastic surgery.  Pain is rarely a problem and it is easily managed with pain medications and supportive undergarments after surgery.  Return to normal activities occurs quicker than other […]

View Details

Gynecomastia and weightlifting Why gynecomastia occurs in bodybuilders Surgery and how it can help bodybuilders specifically  Weight lifters push their body to the max almost every day to maximize their gains.  It is a grind, requiring hours in the gym, with only one guarantee: your improvements will come at a snail’s pace.  The best part […]

View Details

I know I am a candidate for liposuction but I am concerned about the surgery and recovery.  What should I expect? Steps of liposuction surgery including clinic appointments, the surgery itself and the recovery Solutions for minimizing discomfort after surgery Liposuction is a great option for those of you who struggle with resistant areas of […]

View Details

Recovery times vary from person to person but in general, it takes up to 1 week to get back on your feet and return to non physical work duties, around  2 to 3 weeks to return to normal daily activities 6 to 8 weeks to return to your normal workout schedule.  Discomfort after this surgery […]

View Details

Are you considering a Mommy Makeover? This blog article is all you need to know. Step 1: Decide that you want to empower yourself As a mom, it can be really difficult to find time in your busy schedule to even do the simplest of things for yourself. By default, cooking a healthy meal, devoting […]

View Details

All you need to know about recovering from a Mommy Makeover? Most are surprised to learn that although recovery from a Mommy Makeover may be painful in the first few days after surgery,  it quickly becomes manageable as you continue to recover.  In actuality, pain is rarely a problem.  Don’t get me wrong, you definitely […]

View Details

I know I need a Mommy Makeover but I am really concerned about the appearance of the scars.  What do I need to know????? Where the surgical scars are located and how they differ with the different types of Mommy Makeover surgeries Ways that we manage scars after surgery.   So what do you do if […]

View Details

We’re sheltered in place! It’s hard to stay on top of nutrition, exercise, sleep and mental health in these strange and difficult times. Never fear! Amy and Dr. Martin have some suggestions on how to stay healthy during the quarantine. Watch Beauty and the Surgeon on YouTube: https://youtu.be/jS1j5OzeCxo Please rate and subscribe via Apple Podcasts or […]

View Details

Everyone knows that good nutrition is a very important part of being healthy, but it’s not always a comprehensive part of a medical exam. Recently Amy hosted a roundtable on how nutrition experts can align with medical doctors to help inform and empower patients to improve their health through nutrition. Her and Jason talk about […]

View Details

Amy just returned from the 2020 Nutritional Therapy Conference and she’s going to tell you all about it! Amy and Dr. Martin talk about this year’s presenters and presentations reporting on the latest in nutrition and wellness from experts around the world. Watch Beauty and the Surgeon on YouTube: https://youtu.be/LkEe1De8uG4 Please rate and subscribe via Apple […]

View Details

A body lift is one of the most transformational surgeries a person can have done. Massive weight loss from a new lifestyle or bariatric surgery is life changing but it leaves behind loose skin on many parts of the body. A body lift is a procedure that removes all that excess skin. A body lift […]

View Details

Recovering from surgery can be a long and uncomfortable process but did you know there are things you can do to make your recovery easier? Dr. Martin and Amy have so much good advice about recovery that we had to do another episode on the subject. Do you know the difference between active downtime and […]

View Details

Diet, weight loss, liposuction–we’re in a constant battle trying to lose excess fat. But did you know fat is an organ and is more important than you might think? When you remove fat with liposuction, where does it go? Can it grow back? Does it cause you to gain fat on other parts of your […]

View Details

Male breast enlargement is more common than you might think. It can have many different causes and can happen at any time throughout a man’s life. It’s called Gynecomastia and it’s the most common problem men fix with cosmetic surgery. Jason and Amy discuss this relatively easy procedure and what results to expect. They also […]

View Details

Happy New Year! We covered a lot of topics on the podcast this past year. Everything from breast cancer and longevity to celebrity siblings and turmeric root. It’s time for Jason and Amy to pick their top 5 Beauty and the Surgeon Podcast moments from 2019. Watch Beauty and the Surgeon on YouTube: https://youtu.be/dezrpwhlruo Please […]

View Details

It’s almost the new year and you’re probably thinking about your New Year’s resolutions for 2020. Are the changes you want to make in your life realistic? Are they obtainable? Dr. Martin and Amy have some tips on setting goals and how to accomplish them. Watch Beauty and the Surgeon on YouTube: https://youtu.be/MtKflIcJcII Please rate […]

View Details

Did you know that breast lift procedures increased 70% since 2000, outpacing breast implants 2-1? Lifting sagging breasts can improve quality of life and increase comfort. Amy and Dr. Martin discuss this increasingly popular surgery, how it’s done, and what to expect during recovery. Watch Beauty and the Surgeon on YouTube: https://youtu.be/4tG85zMiXnU Please rate and […]

View Details

Friend of the show Steve Shaw returns to inspire us! What’s he been up to? Running, running, and more running! He tells us about the documentary he’s working on, 96 Hours, that follows Steve and his wife–2 novice runners–as they attempt to complete a 100 mile run in a year’s time. He talks about the […]

View Details

Kyphosis, breast pain, back and neck pain can all be caused by disproportionately large breasts. One of the few cosmetic surgeries that is sometimes covered by insurance, a breast reduction can dramatically improve a person’s quality of life. Dr. Martin and Amy break down the different types of breast reductions, scarring, recovery, and patient reactions after […]

View Details

Every scar tells a story. Why do we scar? How do you minimize scarring? Every wound scars, it’s just how our bodies work, but some scars can be more noticeable than others and can even be painful and intrusive. Dr. Martin and Amy discuss the science behind scars and how things like diet and sun […]

View Details

Everyone hates selfie fat – that stuff that pops out under your chin when you look down. So, when taking a selfie, the first rule of thumb is “don’t look down – always look up!” Fat in this area can be very annoying since it is often resistant to diet and exercise. Even if you […]

View Details

What happens when a surgeon needs surgery? It’s important to understand that being an expert on one subject doesn’t make a person an expert on other subjects, no matter how smart they are. It’s important to find an expert to help you with important decisions whether it be your finances, your diet, or having surgery. […]

View Details

When BodyTite™ was approved by the FDA in 2016, it changed our understanding of how much you can tighten loose skin without formal surgery. Before that, industry-leading devices like Thermage® or Smartlipo™ would give only a 10-15% improvement in skin tightness. Now, BodyTite™ has changed the game. Right from the start, it delivered up to […]

View Details

With breast reduction surgery, incision placement ultimately depends on the shape and size of your breasts. However, with most patients, the scars after breast reduction surgery will be one of two types: a lollipop scar, which goes around your areola and below your nipple (along the midline of your breast), or an anchor scar, which is […]

View Details

Dr. Jason Martin is a talented and successful plastic surgeon, but did you know he’s also a trauma surgeon? When someone has a tragic accident and suffers trauma to their face, Dr. Martin comes to the rescue. In this episode Dr. Martin and Amy talk about being on trauma call and some of the dramatic […]

View Details

The word "transformation" gets thrown around a lot in our field. If you follow any plastic surgeons, it's a filler word in the captions of most of our posts: "Transformation Tuesday", "Amazing Transformation", "Total Body Transformation". Even on this website, JasonMartinMD.com, the first words you see are "Empower. Educate. Transform!" But seeing this word everywhere […]

View Details

What’s going on in the operating room while you’re under anesthesia for cosmetic or plastic surgery? Is it like the movies and TV? What kind of music does the surgical team like to listen to? Dr. Martin and Amy talk about life in the OR and the team of experts dedicated to your safety. Watch […]

View Details

In July 2019 the FDA asked Allergan to voluntarily recall BIOCELL textured breast implants and tissue expanders due to uncommon incidence of breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). Dr. Martin and Amy dive into what we know about the recall, what the risks are, and what the future holds for textured implants. Watch Beauty […]

View Details

We’ve got a whole new bag of stuff we’re into! From books and hobbies to workouts and nutrition learn about a few of our favorite things at the Beauty and the Surgeon podcast. Watch Beauty and the Surgeon on YouTube: https://youtu.be/YVX_JZC0QDU Please rate and subscribe via Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts. Ratings […]

View Details

How long does it take to recover from plastic surgery? Recovery is different for everyone and every procedure has different recovery times and challenges associated with it. Dr. Martin and Amy discuss recovering from facelifts, breast implants, and liposuction. They go over what you should expect and tips for recovering more quickly and comfortably. Watch […]

View Details

How is physical beauty measured? Where do our instincts for what’s beautiful come from? The Golden Rule is commonly referenced when measuring beauty but there are many facial variations that break the Golden Rule that are commonly referred to as beautiful. Understanding the subtleties of beauty is one of the things that makes a great […]

View Details

Spending a lot on Botox? It might be time for a brow lift. Also known as a forehead lift or forehead rejuvenation, this quick in-office procedure reduces wrinkles and gives the eyes a more youthful look. Dr. Martin and Amy discuss a few different techniques that surgeons use for brow lifts and the pros and […]

View Details

Loose skin on the inner thighs can be restrictive and uncomfortable. A leg lift or thighplasty can be a great option for removing leftover loose skin after significant weight loss. Dr. Martin and Amy talk about who’s a candidate, the complex surgical procedure, and the challenges during recovery. Watch Beauty and the Surgeon on YouTube: […]

View Details

Did you know a facelift and a necklift usually go hand in hand? Wrinkles and loose skin caused by aging happen on the face and neck simultaneously. Fixing one and not the other can take away from a natural look. Dr. Martin and Amy go into detail about the different face and neck lift procedures […]

View Details

Men care about how they look too! Loose skin after weight loss? Love handles that won’t go away no matter how much you diet and exercise? There are solutions for these problems that can change your life. Men only account for 11% of plastic surgery procedures but that number is growing as men feel more […]

View Details

Since the dawn of human philosophy, we have accepted two profound truths: there is a slow but perpetual decline in one’s vitality after young adulthood and this decline ultimately culminates in a singular ending of death.  This realization has pervaded our history. […]

View Details

How can you live a longer, healthier life? Lifestyle, diet and genetics all play a part in how long we live but there’s a lot we still don’t know. Dr. Martin and Amy discuss the science of aging and some recent studies that show some important steps you can take that can help the longevity […]

View Details

Most patients who undergo a mastectomy have options to consider surrounding breast reconstruction. What new technologies and procedures are available today? Dr. Martin and Amy help analyze the benefits and risks of breast reconstruction surgery. Recorded on International Women’s Day! Watch Beauty and the Surgeon on YouTube: https://youtu.be/usFUExC_kBo Please rate and subscribe via iTunes or wherever you […]

View Details

On our most recent episode of Beauty and the Surgeon, we discuss AccuTite™ a new and exciting technology from Inmode.  AccuTite™ is a tiny but mighty face, neck and body contouring device which relies on internal radio frequency technology to tighten skin and reduce unwanted fat.  It combines the power of BodyTite™ and FaceTite™ into […]

View Details

Small, but Mighty! Dr. Martin reviews AccuTite, a new technology that uses Radio-Frequency Assisted Lipolysis (RFAL) to reduce fat and tighten skin in very small areas on the face and body. Dr. Martin and Amy discuss how this safe, in-office procedure is a quick and efficient alternative to many types of cosmetic surgery. Watch Beauty […]

View Details

Loose skin and fat on the arms can be both aesthetically and functionally problematic. Aging and weight loss can cause the upper arm skin to lose elasticity resulting in the loss of the arm’s contour. No amount of exercise can tighten that skin back up but there’s still hope. From surgery – also called a […]

View Details

Breast Implant Associated-Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) has recently been the focus of media coverage and increased FDA investigation. This focus is warranted, BIA-ALCL is a serious diagnosis associated with breast implants that in extreme cases can be life threatening. Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma is a type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, a cancer of the cells […]

View Details

How do you choose the right breast implant for your body and lifestyle? What size and shape? What brand? What should it be made out of? The answer is different for everyone because each person is unique. Fortunately Dr. Martin and Amy answer the questions that will help you and your doctor decide what breast […]

View Details

Capsular contracture is a hardening of the scar tissue surrounding a breast implant.  Per reported data from the three major breast implant manufacturers in the United States, along with peer reviewed studies from plastic surgeons looking at breast augmentation surgery outcomes, the rate of clinically relevant capsular contracture after breast augmentation surgery is around 10%. […]

View Details

Breast Implant Associated ALCL, implant failure and capsular contracture are serious concerns when considering breast implants. How common are complications from breast surgery and what are the precautions surgeons take to minimize the risks? Dr. Martin and Amy are here to educate you on what you need to know about the science of breast implants […]

View Details

In this episode of Beauty and the Surgeon Dr. Martin and I discuss current research (in the health and wellness realm) that we find interesting.  Before we delve into the research articles I think it is important to discuss the following:   What is an ‘abstract’? - an abstract is a summary of the research […]

View Details

Half of all men experience gynecomastia, A.K.A. enlarged male breasts, at least once in their lifetime. It is a surprisingly common problem, and when it affects you, it can be a real hit to your self-confidence. Fortunately, male breast reduction surgery, A.K.A. gynecomastia surgery, can improve everything that you hate about unsightly male breasts. Gynecomastia […]

View Details

Can coffee slow the aging process? Can mindfulness help you lose weight? The headlines say they do but often medical news stories can be misleading. Dr Martin and Amy take a deep dive into some recent studies and translate what the research actually says. Watch Beauty and the Surgeon on YouTube: https://youtu.be/yi53jl-mKck Please rate and subscribe […]

View Details

Happy New Year! It’s 2019 and we are starting the year off with a discussion about transformation. Transformation is a very commonly used word in plastic surgery but what does transformation really mean? The world around us is in a constant state of flux much like the changing seasons. Are you aware of the constant […]

View Details

Happy New Year! We kick off 2019 by inspiring and motivating you to transform something about yourself. Improving your health and appearance can also improve your personal relationships by increasing your self-confidence. In this episode, find out how lifestyle changes-not quick fixes-are the key to your success. Watch Beauty and the Surgeon on YouTube: https://youtu.be/wgmFv7GzGmM […]

View Details

2018 was a great year for the Beauty and the Surgeon Podcast! We covered a variety of topics ranging from migraine surgery and tummy tucks to weight loss and staying motivated. We also had incredible guests who shared their amazing stories and inspired us. Dr. Martin and Amy share their top five moments in the […]

View Details

Taking nutritional supplements can be beneficial for some people before or recovering from surgery, however, it’s not as safe and straight forward as it might seem. What vitamins help with healing and scars? Is CBD helpful for recovery? Our nutritional therapy counselor, Amy, gives us the full breakdown of what supplements are helpful and how […]

View Details

Otoplasty or Ear Pinning is the process of surgically reducing the angle of the ears to the head. Protruding ears can be bothersome to people who have them but there are ways to reduce the amount they stick out. Dr. Martin and Amy breakdown the ear’s anatomy and development, explaining the reasons for prominent ears […]

View Details

Philosophy, motivation, fitness, inspiration, our special guest Ryan Doris @thenattypro enlightens us with his expertise on these subjects and much more. From motivational speaking to bodybuilding, Ryan guides us through his approach to life and his business, Fortis EQ, which focuses on simplifying complex philosophy and psychology for athletes to integrate into their mental psyche.

View Details

Bodybuilder and Fitness Expert, Courtney Samuel, stops by to discuss how perseverance is the key to accomplishing your goals. Staying consistent and motivated with diet and exercise is one of the hardest things a person can do but with couching and inspiration anyone can transform their life.

View Details

This episode has everything you want to know about an abdominoplasty, commonly referred to as a tummy tuck. Dr. Martin and Amy break down the entire procedure, recovery time, and provide tips to prepare yourself for this surgery. They also discuss diastasis recti, the separation of the abdomen muscles that can occur after pregnancy.

View Details

Eyelid surgery, also called a blepharoplasty or an eyelift, is one of the most common procedures in plastic surgery. Most people first notice aging around their eyes and eye rejuvenation can help. Dr. Martin and Amy discuss upper and lower blepharoplasty in detail which usually involves the removal of excess skin and fat around the […]

View Details

Surgery or no surgery, that is the question. Dr. Martin and Amy discuss surgical and non-surgical procedures for all parts of the body, head to toe. From brow lifts and nose jobs to body sculpting, they talk through the many different options to fix those problem areas.

View Details

Our listeners have questions and we have answers! Dr. Martin and Amy dive into the mailbag and answer some frequently asked questions. How long does recovery take? How soon after surgery can I have sex? Nothing’s off the table in this episode of Beauty and the Surgeon.

View Details

Board Certified Athletic Trainer, Phillip Roybal joins Dr. Martin and Amy to discuss everything from sports medicine and nutrition to injury prevention and rehabilitation. We also hear Phillip’s incredible story of how his professional boxing career was cut short when he was diagnosed with a benign tumor on his spine and how his experience inspired […]

View Details

Amy surprises Dr. Martin by taking over the captain’s chair and finding out what makes him tick. Learn about Dr. Martin’s remarkable history as a trauma surgeon, his training and residency, and his decision to move to Colorado.

View Details

BodyTite™ and FaceTite™ treatments are Topic #1 in our clinics these days. It now makes up the biggest portion of all our internet requests, and that number is rising. So what’s the deal? Why so much interest? Well, first and foremost, this procedure works. Radio Frequency Assisted Lipolysis is a powerful skin tightener that simultaneously […]

View Details

The Secret to a Good Face and Neck Lift: BALANCE Beauty and balance are cozy bedfellows. The Greeks and Romans knew this thousands of years ago. Michelangelo realized this in the Renaissance with his statue of David. Considered one of the truest artistic recreations of human beauty, his statue of David is revered for its […]

View Details

A rhinoplasty, or nose job, is one of my favorite surgeries. It deals with the small, not the large. It requires a sincere grasp of three-dimensional sculpting. It is technically complex and requires a real attention to detail. Furthermore, it also requires that you have a full grasp of facial aesthetics. Changes planned with a […]

View Details

After losing 80 pounds, listener Tiffany from Ohio is thinking about having a breast lift and implant surgery but is concerned about the time needed to recover. She understands it will be disruptive to her work and life but wants to know more. Dr. Martin and Amy discuss what to expect when recovering from a […]

View Details

Want to know what Dr. Martin and Amy are into? From books and hobbies to workouts and nutrition, learn about a few of our favorite things at the Beauty and the Surgeon podcast.

View Details

Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Shashi Kusuma wasn’t happy with the digital record management options for his patients so he decided to build his own. Dr. Kusuma is the founder of Symplast, a simple, intuitive software made for the aesthetic industry that was built around the patient. Dr Martin and Amy talk with Dr. Kusuma […]

View Details

Dr. Martin and Amy have tried out the revolutionary new BodyTite and FaceTite technology and they’re ready to tell you all about it! Featuring a special interview with Surgical Director of bodySCULPT, Dr. Christoper Chia. They dive in to the science behind the device and what to expect before, during and after the procedure.

View Details

Paul Revelia, owner of Pro Physique and IFPA and NGA drug-free professional bodybuilder joins Dr. Martin and Amy to talk about fitness, nutrition, body image, and life transformation. Paul explains how his science based coaching techniques are customized for each individual, focusing on both their physical and mental health.

View Details

37 million people suffer from migraine headaches in the US. Migraines can be difficult to treat and extremely disruptive to a persons life. Guest, Dr. Adam Lowenstein talks with Dr. Martin and Amy about a revolutionary new surgery that has helped some migraine sufferers get a new lease on life.

View Details

Steve Shaw, powerlifter, writer, hiker, guitarist, singer-songwriter, and superhero joins Dr. Martin and Amy to talk about his life story and incredible transformation. After a health scare, Steve got his life and heath back on track by losing over 100 pounds. As the Editorial Director at TigerFitness.com he has dedicated his life to helping others […]

View Details

Clash of the Tightens​ It’s not hyperbole to say that the medical aesthetics and plastic surgery industries are first and foremost devoted to tightening your skin. Skin tightening is the bedrock of most treatments and surgeries we offer. Practitioners in medical aesthetics offices spend hours every day on treatments that attempt to tighten skin and […]

View Details

Are Botox, fillers, and laser treatments really necessary? At what point should you consider a facelift? What is beauty maintenance? Never fear, our registered nurse, Mina, is back to talk about the steps you can take throughout the aging process to help keep you looking young and vibrant, and this time she brought her mom.

View Details

This episode’s special guest tells the story of having her facelift performed by Dr. Jason Martin. From her consultation to her recovery, she tells Amy and Dr. Martin all about the experience that changed her life.

View Details

It’s a new year! The time is here to reflect on the past and plan for the future. Finding inspiration to make a positive transformation in your life can sometimes be difficult. Fortunately Dr. Martin and Amy have you covered! In our first episode of 2018 we inspire you to make positive changes to your […]

View Details

Dr. Martin and Amy continue to explore the ins and outs of digital marketing in part two of this two part episode with special guest and digital media expert, Doug Lundberg. Covering subjects like SEO, Google Analytics, Social Media, and Content Creation this podcast will help you on your journey through the digital universe.

View Details

In part one of this two part episode special guest Doug Lundberg joins Dr. Martin and Amy to educate all of us on how Digital Marketing works. What are the common mistakes that most medical professionals make when marketing themselves online? What can you do to optimize your business and connect with your clients and […]

View Details

In this episode a special guest joins Dr. Martin and Amy to tell her story of her battle with obesity and how she was able to successfully lose weight and keep it off. After losing the weight she sought out Dr. Martin to help remove extra skin from her legs, arms, and stomach. They discuss […]

View Details

Did you know that there were almost 1million “nose jobs” performed in the world last year? In the United States, Rhinoplasty is the third most common cosmetic surgical procedure. Reshaping the nose is a delicate and complex operation that requires both the artistic and technical skill of a surgeon. Dr. Martin and Amy discuss the […]

View Details

One out of every two men have to deal with breast enlargement in their lifetime. It’s called Gynecomastia it’s the number one problem men fix with cosmetic surgery. In this episode Dr. Jason Martin and Amy break down the causes of and solutions to Gynecomastia.

View Details

Special guest Dr. Jack Zamora joins Dr. Martin and Amy to discuss the amazing results of the J-Plasma® device. J-Plasma® combines cold helium plasma with RF energy to remove fat and tighten skin on many areas of the body. This procedure is safer, faster and more precise than previous methods and can replace more invasive […]

View Details

Did you know having a conversation with your anesthesiologist prior to surgery can improve your comfort level, recovery time and the outcome of your procedure? Special guest anesthesiologist Dr. Don Merrill M.D. sits down with Amy and Dr. Martin to discuss how important anesthesiology is to having a successful surgical procedure. Dr. Merrill guides us […]

View Details

Is how you see yourself the same as how others see you? Is self confidence and a positive self image beneficial to your physical health? Amy and Dr. Martin discuss how cosmetic surgery affects self image and how positive body image can help improve health and happiness.

View Details

Special Guest, Registered Nurse Mina Muirhead joins Amy and Dr. Martin to discuss the latest injection treatments. How are injections preformed? Why should an expert preform your injections? Learn about the science behind BOTOX®, KYBELLA®, Fillers, and more.

View Details

One episode isn’t enough to cover face lifts. This time Amy and Dr. Jason Martin get technical. How is a face lift preformed? What are the different types of face lifts? What surgical techniques are used? Answers to these questions and many more on this episode of Beauty and the Surgeon.

View Details

Did you know there are many ways to improve the outcome of your surgery? Taking care of your mental and physical health before and after surgery can make a big impact on your results and recovery. Amy and Dr. Martin discuss some of the many ways to prepare yourself for any surgical procedure.

View Details

How do you select the right implant for your breast augmentation? Amy and Dr. Jason Martin dive into the details and misconceptions of implant selection. What is a Gummy Bear implant? What’s the difference between silicone and saline? This episode of Beauty and the Surgeon will set you on the right path for selecting the […]

View Details

It’s bathing suit season! Amy and Dr. Jason Martin discuss some of their favorite, less invasive solutions for looking great this summer. These techniques require minimal or no down time so you can get back to enjoying your summer. Topics include SmoothShapes cellulite treatments, Botox & Kybella injectables, Venus Viva RF skin treatments, and more.

View Details

Giving birth to a child is a wonderful thing, but it causes many unwanted changes to a woman’s body. A Mommy Makeover can help you get back your pre-pregnancy body and your confidence. Amy and Dr. Martin talk about the different procedures involved in a Mommy Makeover and why it’s been a life changer for […]

View Details

Having excess fat may be giving you grief. If your diet and exercise efforts have failed to eliminate the extra cushion layers of fat on your body, you will be relieved to know that there are other options available to you. Liposuction and tummy tuck surgery are both viable choices that can improve the contour […]

View Details

To be mature is to be sophisticated, cultured, and grown-up. Becoming more mature is something to be praised – that is, until it begins to show on your face. When your face shows its maturity, you know that you are beginning to look old. Wrinkles, tired eyes, and sagging jowls can all be corrected with […]

View Details

Pregnancy is a remarkable experience that creates new life, and the so-called “pregnancy glow” can make a woman look positively radiant. However, pregnancy also tends to wreak havoc on a woman’s body and, in particular, her breasts. When a woman’s post-pregnancy breasts are sagging and deflated, breast augmentation or a Mommy Makeover can restore their […]

View Details

Facial rejuvenation with faci injectables can reduce signs of aging by smoothing out wrinkles, softening fine lines, and filling in age-related volume loss. Here are some of the key differences between the facial injectables that Dr. Jason Martin uses to minimize signs of facial aging. BOTOX® Cosmetic BOTOX® Cosmetic is derived from botulinum toxin type […]

View Details

One of the most beautiful things about the human body is that every individual is unique. The face, in particular, has distinctive features that set us apart from one another. Still, environmental factors and aging will eventually take their toll on every face, regardless of how full your cheeks are. However, with the Venus Viva™, […]

View Details

Over the past ten years, the field of plastic surgery has seen revolutionary technological developments. One of these developments is Cellulaze™, a breakthrough treatment that targets cellulite at the source. Once you understand how Cellulaze™ works, it should come as no surprise that Cellulaze™ is one of the most requested office-based procedures in our practice. […]

View Details

Loose skin and excess fat around the belly is a frustrating reality of life for many of our patients. Even though their stories differ, the findings are always the same: annoying, sagging belly skin from pregnancy and weight loss or too much belly fat from weight gain and hormone imbalances. Focusing on diet and exercise […]

View Details

For most women, being a mom is a real blessing and one of the greatest joys of their lives. However, it’s perfectly reasonable to admit that being a mom is also hectic and time-consuming. A common theme for the moms that visit our clinic is that they feel that they need to make sacrifices to […]

View Details

“Face Lift” can be a scary word, but not when Dr. Jason Martin and Amy walk you through a full overview of what’s involved. Topics in this episode include discussions about surgical techniques, recovery and results, and what to expect when a face lift is done correctly verses incorrectly. Why are some peoples face lifts […]

View Details

Dr. Martin and Amy discuss procedures that can be done outside the operating room and why that’s beneficial to patients. Loads of information is shared including the benefits and risks involved, pre- and post- procedure expectations, areas of the body that can be treated, ideal candidates, and more.

View Details

In our office, we use body contouring technologies like VASERlipo® and Smartlipo™ to improve the contours of your problem areas that do not respond to diet or exercise. VASERlipo® is unique as it offers the most precise option. It selectively removes unwanted fat in areas like the love handles, saddlebags, and bra lines, while preserving […]

View Details

Even with a strict regimen of diet and exercise, many areas of your body are resistant to change. Therefore, for those of you who are struggling with pesky areas of fat and looking for a long-lasting answer, in-office body contouring treatments are a great option. In our office, we offer the most advanced array of […]

View Details

On this episode of Beauty and the Surgeon, we talk about the benefits of diet and fitness regarding your health and beauty, embracing who you are, and how empowerment is the key to self-improvement.

View Details

On this episode of Beauty and the Surgeon, we reach into the mailbag to address questions we commonly receive about plastic surgery. Topics include: botox, fillers, face lifts, liposuction, procedures before special events, gummy bear/cohesive gel implants, and the Brazilian butt lift.

View Details

On this episode of Beauty and the Surgeon, we talk about how to find the best plastic surgeon from the viewpoint of a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon. Certification, technical ability, and ethics are just a few of the many aspects and qualifications we cover. If you are considering surgery, finding a great cosmetic surgeon can […]

View Details

Breast Augmentation is one of the most requested topics at Dr. Jason Martin’s clinics and, according to the 2013 National Plastic Surgery Statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), is one of the third most common procedures performed by plastic surgeons in the US. On this episode of Beauty and the Surgeon, we […]

View Details

Beauty and the Surgeon is a podcast where Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Jason Martin, and his sidekick Amy, cut through the confusion and marketing to inform you about cosmetic surgery and aesthetic medicine. Their mission is to help guide you through what’s out there today, and empower you so that you may take an […]

View Details

We got a lot of positive feedback from our “Wonder Woman” article. Although much of it was tongue-in-cheek, the topic of beauty and pop culture seems to resonate. So how does relate to my plastic surgery practice you may ask? Well, first and foremost, beauty is difficult to define for most people. A majority of […]

View Details

[image url=”http://www.jasonmartinmd.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/embrace.png” width=”455″ height=”405″ align=”right” lightbox=”no”] In our clinics, we strive to remain ahead of the curve and we take pride in being early integrators of the newest technologies and treatments in plastic surgery. Therefore, we were very pleased to be selected as the first location in Colorado for introduction of embrace®, a truly revolutionary […]

View Details

This question is likely going to cross your mind when you enter our office and it is one I answer many times every day. From the first time patient with a little fear and trepidation in their eyes, to the determined ‘nothing can hurt me’ regular, nobody really wants to be in pain. Just how […]

View Details

As a board certified plastic surgeon and the director of Aspen Institute of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AIPRS), I get asked a lot of questions about plastic surgery and how to best enhance and maintain your natural beauty. My answers to these types of questions are not surprising, especially when you consider that I chose […]

View Details

From the Aspen Daily News, July 12, 2011 [image url=”http://drjasonmartin.com/beta/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/Casey-crop-297×300.jpg” width=”297″ height=”300″ align=”right” lightbox=”no” keep_aspect_ratio=”yes”] Living in our high altitude paradise with its endless outdoor activities and countless sunny days, our skin is exposed to climate and environmental aggressors that most people will never experience. We’ve long known, and it bears repeating, the best and […]

View Details

The most common question that is posed to me on a daily basis is “Dr. Martin, do I need a facelift?”. This may be in the office, the grocery store, at a dinner party or even on a chairlift. I often sense that patients feel that even bringing up this topic is admitting some failure […]

View Details

CELLULITE: for people who have it, it’s a four letter word.  Have no fear, you are not alone. 85%-98% of women struggle with cellulite.  Contrary to popular belief, healthy diet, regular exercise or youth cannot necessarily prevent cellulite.  Genetic makeup, hormones, vascular changes and inflammation may all contribute to the appearance of cellulite.  In other […]

View Details

The Spring 2010 issue of Aspen Magazine features a profile of Aspen Institute of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery.  In the story, The Quest for Eternal Youth, writer Linda Hayes notes that plastic surgery is a blend of science and aesthetics and highlights the unique perspectives that Dr. Dennis Cirillo and Dr. Jason Martin bring to […]

View Details

Liposuction has evolved from a rather traumatic surgery that required 2-3 weeks of painful recovery, to a laser assisted procedure that now requires around 7 days of recovery with a relatively painless post-operative course.  Patients with loose, redundant skin who were not good candidates for liposuction in the past are now getting a second look.  […]

View Details

Why I Chose the Cutera XEO Laser Platform for the Aspen Institute of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Laser Mania Lasers are everywhere.  They play a role in almost every facet of our life.  From steel production to medical procedures, lasers are continually utilized for their precision and dependability.  (Lasers are not just for Sci Fi […]

View Details

What Every Woman Needs to Know About Breast Reconstruction After Breast Cancer Throughout my career practicing both reconstructive and cosmetic surgery, I have had the honor of caring for breast cancer patients, and have specialized in breast reconstruction surgery. Each year more than 254,000 American women are faced with the diagnosis of breast cancer. While […]

View Details

As a Board Certified Plastic and Reconstructive surgeon, many patients come to my office specifically for skin care consultations. I’ve found patients often confused about the basic techniques that maintain skin health, how to avoid skin cancer and slow skin changes from aging, lifestyle and the environment. As sales of medical-based skin care products easily […]