Revision Surgery: When to Consider
March 21st, 2011
All surgeons want you to have the best result possible after any surgery. Additionally, plastic surgeons want their patients to also look better. I believe that the aesthetic nature of plastic and reconstructive medical training, appeals to people drawn to the artistry and sculpting of this particular specialty. While cosmetic surgery can offer patients significant improvements in their appearance, unfortunately, perfect results are not possible. Our bodies are not symmetric and individual anatomy differs from one person to the next. Variations in surgical results do occur.
Some results are better than others. There are many factors that contribute to a less than desirable result. These may include, surgical problems, or not following strict after-care instructions, which may lead to unwanted bleeding or infection. Recovery is not the same for everyone and we all heal differently. Some patients make more scar tissue, which may contribute to imperfect results after surgery.
When should surgery be revised for an unsatisfactory result? This relates to internal healing. Internal healing like scar maturation takes from 6 months to a year. During this recovery period, dramatic changes take place, often revealing the expected appearance. In my experience, some unsatisfied patients are a little impatient and perhaps too quick to judge. It takes time and patience to see final results with most cosmetic surgery results. However, if after 6 months there is not significant improvement, I suggest visiting with your surgeon about the possibility of revision (redoing) surgery.
Facelift Season?
February 7th, 2011
You wouldn’t suppose that there might be seasonality to cosmetic surgery, but over the past few years, I have noticed a pattern in my practice. In mid-January facelift consultations seem to spike. The Holidays are over, popular social events like summer weddings and reunions are more than several months away. The end of January and February seems to be the choice time for patients to explore having facial rejuvenation surgery. About 95,000 facelifts are performed each year. In Minneapolis, winter is a great time to recuperate without attracting too many questions and re-emerge to look rested and refreshed like returning from a relaxing vacation. Unlike the contestants of the reality show Bridalplasty savvy patients that opt for anti-aging procedures want to plan ahead to look their best, especially for important events. It is my recommendation that scheduling surgery well in advance of an important social occasion is optimal for a safe and stress-free recovery.
Next time: Is there a season for liposuction?
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