When getting breast implants, will it look more natural to place the implants under or over the muscle?
Breast implants can be placed above or below the (pectoralis) muscle. Placing the implant over the muscle may result in less pain and faster recovery. However, placing the implant under the muscle looks and feels more natural (because there is more tissue covering the implant), may lead to less incidence of capsular contracture (hardening of scar tissue around the implant), and offers less interference with mammograms. I also believe that it offers better long- term support when placed under the muscle. There is further distinction between placing the implant partially or fully under the muscle - the advantages of which can be discussed in consultation as they are relevant to your personal breast shape and ultimate goals.
How long after pregnancy should I wait before I can get breast implants and undergo breast lift?
Some patients only need an implant to fill out the breast following pregnancy while others will require an implant with a breast lift. This will depend on how much excess skin you have and the position of your nipple following pregnancy changes. It is best to wait 3-6 months after pregnancy or, if you breast feed, 3-6 months after breast feeding. Keep in mind that you will need help for a few weeks if you have surgery when your children are still small because the procedure will limit your activity levels and your ability to lift a certain amount of weight. Most of my patients are looking to have their breasts restored to the pre-pregnancy shape and size without looking like they are “done”. I specialize in natural results with the restoration of fullness that pregnancy takes away. After pregnancy, the breast tissue atrophies - leaving a flat appearance at the top of the breast, and sometimes leaving the nipple in an unnaturally low position.
What credentials should I look for when choosing a plastic surgeon?
The most important credential is board certification. Whether you’re considering cosmetic or reconstructive plastic surgery, you want the skill of an American Society of Plastic Surgeons Member —a doctor with more than six years of surgical training and experience, with at least three years specifically in plastic surgery. Our training and experience make us uniquely qualified to perform your cosmetic or reconstructive procedure . We are also required to perform maintenance of certification over the years to assure that our standards of practice are up to par. Reputable surgeons will have no problem supplying you with contact information for some of their recent patients. Speaking with patients about their experience and results is an excellent way to learn more about your surgeon. Asking tough questions is the best way to get to know your surgeon. It gives you the opportunity to learn about their qualifications, experience, and demeanor. Your questions let them know you’ve done your homework, want to be educated about your procedure, and will be an active partner throughout the process. You can easily find out if your surgeon is board certified by visiting www.plasticsurgery.org .
Are all board certifications the same?
Any group of medical professionals can create its own “certification” board. American Society of Plastic Surgeons Members are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery - a group designated by the American Board of Medical Specialties to oversee credentialing in plastic surgery of the face and all areas of the body. Their certification requires passing rigorous oral and written exams.
Are “extreme makeovers” routine in plastic surgery practices?
Contrary to what reality shows portray, extreme makeovers are far from routine or common in plastic surgery. Most patients inquire about one particular area of the body that they would like to improve.
During your consultation, your surgeon will ask you a series of questions to gain an understanding of your goals for plastic surgery and discuss them with you on a realistic basis.
Our job is to perform your surgery as safely as possible without additional risks such as prolonged operating time. This will also include a comprehensive medical history evaluation and lab tests to rule out possible risk factors before surgery.