Reader Question~ Breast Implants
June 1st, 2010
From Rebecca:
Dr. Bashioum,
I have been to other plastic surgery offices for breast augmentation consultations. They have all told me that silicone was the only choice for me. Do you have any insight on why these other physicians are only pointing me to silicone?
There is a strong belief among many plastic surgeons that silicone gel filled breast implants are the best choice for their patients, because they believe that silicone gel breast implants both look and feel better. I cannot agree with these statements. The visual appearance of a patient’s breast is independent of what implant is filled with. Our Before/After photographs have shown the results of saline (salt water) filled implants. It is a choice that I leave up to my patients. In fact, Melissa discusses this topic in her patient blog. Click here to read about her decision.
Summer wedding- time for a facelift?
May 12th, 2010
My daughter’s wedding is this July, when should I have a facelift to look my best?
Now! Modern facelift techniques have a relatively short recovery period. Most patients are out and about in six to seven days after surgery. However, the initial swelling and healing period following the surgery lasts for about 6 to 8 weeks. So by having the surgery in May, you should look great in time for the wedding in July.
It is important to remember a couple things. First of all, as mother of the bride, there is often significant stress involved in helping to plan a family wedding. Complications can and do occur and these problems following surgery might prolong the initial healing period. Perhaps an added level of anxiety might persist with an undue focus on the need to heal too quickly. This might contribute to added stress in this particular situation, if recovery has not been completed in time for the wedding. Adequate preparation time for surgery and recovery helps to alleviate any last minute uneasiness.
Secondly, it is your responsibility to follow before and after instructions carefully for facelift surgery. A smooth recovery often rests on patients following doctor’s orders following surgery. The detailed instructions that I give to my patients are designed to reduce the risks of complications and offer the best insurance for a speedy recovery. Finally, completing facelift surgery at least 6 to 8 weeks before any big event, such as a wedding, will enable you to look and feel your best. Allowing plenty of time for recovery assures a natural and rejuvenated look for the wedding. My guess is that you are going to look great in all the family photographs!