Lipo as weight loss? Part 3
June 16th, 2010
Earlier in my career, I had the unique opportunity to be interviewed on television by Roseanne Barr and Tom Arnold about liposuction, which I discussed earlier this week. This series continues.
Lipo as weight loss? Part 3
Why isn’t Lipo a quick fix? I have found that cosmetic surgery results are far better when the fat layer located beneath the skin is as thin as possible before surgery. In the case of skin tightening procedures, the skin can be stretched more easily to give a better result. I also believe that wound healing is more efficient, there are fewer complications and patients see the best results when they are at a healthy weight.
Patients presenting for cosmetic surgery consultation who are carrying extra pounds frequently change their minds regarding which procedures they are pursuing after reaching their ideal weight. This is most evident with breast surgery. A woman considering breast reduction before weight loss will frequently choose breast enlargement after significant weight loss. Patients considering liposuction after weight loss usually only need a slight reduction of stubborn remaining localized fat pockets, such as the outer thighs. Skin appearance often responds better when weight loss is gradual and exercise is part of the program.
I know the idea of having surgery first, followed by weight loss and conditioning has been popularized on reality TV. It has never made sense to me. Why take this shortcut if there are increased risks, potential medical problems and compromised cosmetic results? Please consider being within 20 pounds of your ideal weight before considering cosmetic surgery. It is the best advice that I can offer my patients.
Remember: A moment on the lips, perhaps a lifetime on the hips!
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!
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