Tuesday, September 22, 2015

Breast Implants Vs a Breast Lift: Which Is Right for You?

After pregnancy, breastfeeding, significant weight loss, or if age or genetics is a factor, women may find themselves contemplating cosmetic plastic surgery to change the appearance of their breasts. While there are several treatments available that can deliver results to create well-rounded and firm breasts, how do you choose which procedure is best for you?

A Breast Lift or Breast Implants?

Breasts lifts and augmentation are two of the more popular procedures for cosmetic breast enhancement. Deciding which of these will benefit you involves understanding your goals, and what each procedure can accomplish.

Breast Lift: A breast lift improves the shape of the breasts by raising them and removing loose skin, which can also increase firmness.  Breast lifts are ideal for women who are satisfied with their cup size but want to restore the shape and position of their natural breasts.

Breast Implants: Breast augmentation, or breast implants, is a procedure for women who are dissatisfied with the size of their breasts. Some women, especially after pregnancy and nursing, experience deflated breast size. Others may notice a significant cup size difference as a result of genetics. In these situations, breast implants improve the appearance and symmetry of breasts by replenishing fullness and creating balance.

Breast implants will not resolve drooping or sagging skin, and a breast lift will not increase cup size. If you are experiencing both of these issues, then breast augmentation as well as a breast lift would be highly recommended.

Is Breast Enhancement the Right Choice for You? 

Only you know if breast enhancement is right for you. Breast enhancement can be life-changing and help you regain a level of confidence that you may be missing since a pregnancy or experiencing the natural aging process.  If your breasts have taken on a longer, flatter, or less-shapely appearance over the years – or if you’ve struggled with hereditary asymmetry for years, cosmetic breast surgery can help you meet your aesthetic goals. If you have questions about a breast lift or breast implants, call Dr. Eric Minns at our Lubbock, TX cosmetic plastic surgery office for assistance.

Tuesday, September 8, 2015

What to Expect During Liposuction

When dieting and exercise fail to eliminate stubborn pockets of fat, many people turn to liposuction. This procedure helps to remove fat cells from areas that are not responsive to healthy lifestyle choices. 

There are several types of liposuction. Treatment may differ on the extent of the liposuction, or how much fat is being removed. While liposuction is often an outpatient procedure, some require an overnight stay in a hospital or treatment facility. You can expect the following during fat removal treatment with liposuction:

Before Liposuction

Prior to the surgery, patients are required to undergo a complete physical exam to determine candidacy for the procedure. Ideal liposuction patients are at healthy weights and keep up a consistently healthy eating and exercise routine. These patients benefit from liposuction to target stubborn areas of fat that have not come off, despite regular healthy choices. 

On the day of the surgery, targeted areas of are marked. In addition to a local anesthesia, patients are given the option of an oral or intravenous sedative or general anesthesia for the procedure.

During and After Liposuction

During the procedure, Dr. Minns follows the marked line to make small incision. A special hollow tube, called a cannula, is inserted into the incision. About as wide as a skinny pen, the cannula is then moved back and forth to remove fat cells.

Recovery time and final results vary due to several factors, including how much fat was removed and patient cooperation with recovery instructions. In the days and weeks following your procedure, you may experience soreness at treatment sites. Typically, you will need to wear special compression garments to control any swelling and may be prescribed pain medication and antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection.

When Considering Liposuction

It is important to note that while liposuction is highly effective for smoothing out troublesome areas, it is not a treatment for significant weight loss. Patients that fail to maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine often experience weight gain redistributed to non-treated areas. Additionally, full results may take some time to settle and finalize.
Dr. Eric Minns can help you achieve the slimmer look you’ve been looking for with liposuction treatment in Lubbock, TX. If you have questions about cosmetic plastic surgery, our office is happy to help assist you in finding the treatments that will help you meet your goals. Contact us today for your consultation.