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Tummy Tuck Types
How is the decision made between a mini tummy tuck and a full tummy tuck? Mini abdominoplasty vs. full abdominoplasty?
Patients need to be clear on the differences between these two procedures. With a full abdominoplasty, there will be a scar that extends across the lower abdomen, typically extending from hip to hip. There is also a scar around the belly button.
With the mini abdominoplasty, the lower abdominal scar is shorter, and there is no scar at the belly button. Liposuction is often used with either of the procedures.
Less scarring always sounds like a good idea, but lesser procedures produce lesser results, and you may not get the outcome that you are looking for. The mini tuck does not tighten the upper abdomen at all.
Again, an examination of the abdomen by our experienced, board certified plastic surgeons followed by a thorough discussion about the patient’s options will ensure that the right procedure will be chosen.
CLICK HERE TO SEE EXAMPLES OF TUMMY TUCK BEFORE AND AFTERS.
Facelift Truths
What is the difference between the facelifts marketed on TV and the facelifts performed at Edina Plastic Surgery?
The truth about facelifts.
Various terms have been used for mini-facelifts, and recently some marketing companies have taken variations of the procedure and have given them proprietary names. This has created a great deal of confusion surrounding these procedures. Some of these procedures seen on TV are not even surgical, and produce subtle changes that may only last for a few months. Some practices/clinics are even advertising a “30 minute facelift”.
In reality, a safe and effective facelift procedure, even the “mini” variety, cannot possibly be performed in less than an hour.
When the board certified surgeons at Edina Plastic Surgery perform a mini-facelift, the surgeons spend at least 30 minutes simply placing the closing sutures, ensuring that we are obtaining the best possible result. After all, the patient will live with the result we achieve for many years, and they deserve the time and effort needed to have this done properly to get a fantastic result. A typical mini-facelift procedure that we perform will take about two hours to complete, and if other procedures are included, such as a brow lift or eyelid lift, more time will be added. It’s important to be aware that not all procedures, or practitioners, are equal and you do not want to be comparing apples to oranges.
In contrast to the mini-facelift, the classic facelift takes longer to perform and is usually done under a general anesthesia. The procedure requires a longer scar that extends from the temporal hairline and along the front of the ear as in the mini-lift, and then continues behind the ear and into the posterior hair-bearing scalp. A more aggressive elevation of the tissues in the face and neck is performed. Often, brow lifts or eyelid lifts are performed at the same time, which also adds to the operative time, cost and recovery.
CLICK HERE TO SEE FACELIFT BEFORE AND AFTERS.
Does a breast lift = smaller breasts?
Does a breast lift always result in dramatically smaller breasts? I am interested in having a breast lift done but am concerned about what size my breasts will be after the procedure.
At Edina Plastic Surgery when we perform a mastopexy (breast lift) on someone with very large breasts, it is usually necessary to perform some reduction of the breast volume as well in order to optimally shape the breasts. In patients with relatively small breasts, we usually do not need to remove any glandular breast tissue, and often the breasts appear a bit larger than they did before surgery, simply because we are lifting the tissue and, in essence, bringing it together which makes the breast appear more full. When patients come in to our office for a free consultation their surgeon will take the time to carefully explain all of the options.
CLICK HERE TO SEE BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS OF BREAST LIFTS
Thinking about a nose job?
I have been thinking about getting a rhinoplasty/nose job but I am concerned that I will not be able to accurately describe the results that I am looking for to a surgeon since I don’t know all the technical terms and I don’t know what can and can’t be achieved. Is there a way that the surgeon and I can look at images of what my nose will look like before and after?
At Edina Plastic Surgery rhinoplasty patients can see an incredibly realistic 3D simulation of the results of their procedure on their own face using our new VECTRA XT 3D Camera.
CLICK HERE TO SEE VIDEO SEGMENT SHOWN ON THE TWIN CITIES LIVE TELEVISION SHOW
What to expect: The simulation experience begins with a picture session in the Edina Plastic Surgery office. This creates the starting point for your aesthetic consultation. The VECTRA XT 3D Camera captures a three dimensional photograph of your face and nose using multiple cameras positioned for different views, all shooting at once.
Using special simulation software on your 3D picture, our surgeons will show you the possible results of the rhinoplasty/nose job and talk with you at length about your goals and expectations.
The photographs of your nose can be rotated on the screen and shown from hundreds of different angles. We can also superimpose your after image over the before image so you can see the difference in one screen. You and your Edina Plastic Surgeon will be able to experiment with different looks until you find the one that most closely meets your expectations.
Once you and your surgeons have decided on the changes, this VECTRA XT 3D simulation will provide a basis for your surgical plan. Because you have already seen the results, you can be much more confident in the outcome of the procedure.
CLICK HERE TO SEE OUR RHINOPLASTY BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS
Visualizing breast implants
What is the best way for me to choose what size breast implants I would like? I tried putting padding in my bra and it just felt so unnatural; it was very hard to visualize if a breast implant that size would look natural on me.
You can now see an incredibly realistic simulation of your new breast implants with the VECTRA XT 3D Camera at Edina Plastic Surgery.
Now breast augmentation patients can see 3D images showing how different size implants look on their bodies for incredibly accurate before and after simulations. This new high tech system also works great for rhinoplasty patients! Edina Plastic Surgery is the only plastic surgery practice in the state to have the VECTRA XT 3D Camera.
At Edina Plastic Surgery we are very excited to offer our patients this new state-of-the–art tool that will help patients feel very comfortable with their choice of implants.
The process is simple. When a patient comes in for a free consultation they stand in front of the VECTRA camera for one photo. Then their surgeon shows them a simulation of their own body “trying on” different sizes and shapes of implants until they are happy with the virtual results.
TO SEE BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS OF BREAST AUGMENTATIONS CLICK HERE
The enhanced visual reinforcement and improved communication between patient and surgeon allows the patient to go into surgery confident in her implant choice. These new 3D pictures are worth more than a thousand words.
VECTRA XT 3D Camera
How does the VECTRA XT 3D Camera work? Is it a simple process for a patient to go through? What types of procedures does it work for besides Breast Augmentations?
It only takes one photo using the VECTRA XT 3D Camera to create an incredibly realistic simulation for both Breast Augmentations and Rhinoplasties.
What to expect: The simulation experience begins with a picture session in the Edina Plastic Surgery office. This creates the starting point for your aesthetic consultation. The VECTRA XT 3D Camera captures a three dimensional photograph using multiple cameras positioned for different views, all shooting at once.
Using special simulation software on your 3D picture, our surgeons will show you the possible results of the aesthetic procedures you may choose to have. The photographs can be rotated on the screen and shown from many angles. We can also superimpose your after image over the before image so you can see the difference in one screen. You will be able to experiment with different looks until you find the one you want.
Once you have decided on the appearance you want, this simulation will provide a basis for your surgical plan. Because you have already seen the result, you can be confident in the outcome of the procedure.
TO SEE BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS OF BREAST AUGMENTATIONS CLICK HERE
TO SEE BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS OF RHINOPLASTIES CLICK HERE
What about breastfeeding
I would like to have breast augmentation, but am wondering about the effect on breastfeeding. I am planning to have another child in the next two years and am wondering if it would be better to wait or if I would be fine to go ahead with the procedure now.
To achieve the best result we recommend that women be finished having children prior to undergoing breast augmentation. A personal free consultation with one of our surgeons will provide you with more information.
TO SEE BEFORE AND AFTERS OF OUR BREAST AUGMENTATIONS CLICK HERE
Types of Neck Lifts
Are there different types of neck lifts available?
At Edina Plastic Surgery we do two types of neck lifts:
The first type is a standard neck lift, otherwise known as the open neck lift. These usually are done in conjunction with a facelift and can achieve excellent results. The basic goal of neck surgery is to improve the appearance of the neck by re-creating an angle between the jaw line and the front of the neck. This angle is called the cervicomental angle and helps to make the neck look more youthful. As a part of aging, excess lax neck skin can hang down and create a straight line from the bottom of the chin to the lower neck. The underlying neck muscles can also contribute to the problem.
The open neck lift involves an incision that runs behind the ear, then extends back into the posterior scalp hairline. Often, a submental incision (incision under the chin) is made in conjunction to allow the removal of fat and/or deal with the anterior neck muscles if necessary. With the open neck lift, we typically lift and tighten the platysma muscle in the neck, in addition to lifting the posterior neck skin and removing the excess. People that have substantial skin excess and laxity in the neck will usually require this type of lift.
The second type of neck lift uses the ImplicitGuide® Surgical Suture System (iGuide®). The system can produce excellent results when used for the appropriate candidate, with fewer potential side effects and less downtime and is often done in conjunction with liposuction of the neck. Your surgeon can evaluate you to determine if this procedure would be an appropriate option.
CLICK HERE TO SEE OUR BEFORE AND AFTERS FOR NECK LIFTS
Treating a Loose Belly
How can a loose belly after pregnancy be treated?
Loose belly skin and fat can usually be addressed with an abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck).
This surgery is done under a general anesthetic. It is normally done on an outpatient basis, but frequent follow-ups with your plastic surgeon are needed over the first 2-3 weeks. This surgery can provide fantastic results, but there is a significant recovery period. You would be moving very slow for the first 2 weeks, and will need some help around home for at least the first week.
This is a very common situation after a pregnancy, but you do want to be done having children before doing a tummy tuck. You also want to be at a stable weight, and a regular exercise program is strongly encouraged. All of the surgeons at Edina Plastic Surgery are board-certified plastic surgeons, and we offer free consultations so you can meet with us to discuss your options.
CLICK HERE TO SEE OUR BEFORE AND AFTERS FOR TUMMY TUCK
Breast Augmentation Scars
Where are the scars located after breast augmentations and how visible are they?
Some type of incision is always needed to place a breast implant.
Each incision made in a breast augmentation will result in a small scar. These scars can be placed in one of three places – at the breast crease (inframammary), the lower areola (periareolar), or in the armpit (transaxillary). Which one is best will depend on the anatomy of each patient, as well as the experience and comfort level of the surgeon. Regardless of which approach is used, the scars typically become nearly imperceptible. None of them should be visible in a swimsuit. It is very rare to have poor scars from breast augmentation, but if hypertrophic scarring occurs, treatments can be done later to minimize the scar. If you are considering a breast augmentation come in to Edina Plastic Surgery for a free consultation to discuss your options.
CLICK HERE TO SEE OUR BEFORE AND AFTERS OF BREAST AUGMENTATIONS
Age for breast reduction surgery
What is the minimum age for breast reduction surgery?
I am considering having breast reduction surgery. Is there an age you recommend because I am only 18. What are the general requirements for insurance to cover this procedure, and how much pain would be experienced post-surgery?
Minimum age for breast reduction surgery
Breast reduction can be considered after breast development has stabilized. Insurance coverage is dependent on the symptoms you have and how much weight will be removed from the breast. Surprisingly there is usually very little pain during recovery. We offer free consultations to make you more comfortable with your decision regarding breast reduction surgery.
CLICK HERE TO SEE OUR BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS OF BREAST REDUCTIONS
Muscle repair: body lift/tummy tuck
Can you explain the muscle repair that is done with a lower body lift/tummy tuck?
I read something recently about the lower body lift addressing “muscle repair” that had “fallen.” Could you enlighten me on what that means?
Muscle repair in body lifts/tummy tucks
When performing a body lift, an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) is a crucial part of the procedure. The abdominal muscles are sewn together at the midline when performing most tummy tucks, and this is the muscle repair that is being described also in the body lift. When doing other procedures that may be part of the body lift, such as an inner thigh lift, we will suspend the skin/soft tissue to a deeper fascial layer (a layer of strong tissue just superficial to the muscle) , although this is not truly a “muscle repair”. Come in to our office for a free consultation and we can answer all your questions about body lifts and tummy tucks.
CLICK HERE TO SEE OUR BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS OF BODY LIFTS
CLICK HERE TO SEE OUR BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS OF TUMMY TUCKS
Recovery timeline: breast implants
What is the recovery timeline after breast implant surgery?
I am considering having breast implant surgery and need to plan time off from work and also need to coordinate any help I may need at home for recovery. Can you give me an approximate recovery timeline?
Recovery after breast implant surgery
All of us have busy lives and cannot or do not wish to take time out to recover. In most cases most women can care for their children, drive and lead fairly normal (but less active) lives within one week. Part of the reason for quick recoveries in our practice is due to the pain pumps we use after surgery. The pain pumps help patients get back to normal much faster.
CLICK HERE TO SEE OUR BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS OF BREAST AUGMENTATIONS
What is a Mommy Makeover?
What is the “Mommy Makeover”?
I recently overheard a woman say she was thinking about a “Mommy Makeover”. What is this? Recently I have been considering the possibility of having a tummy tuck but am thinking that I should look into this instead, so I’d like an explanation of the term. Thank you.
The “Mommy Makeover”
The “Mommy Makeover” is a term that was created to describe a combination of procedures that are done to correct many of the changes that occur to a woman’s body after having children. It is used to describe a combination of various procedures.
The most significant physical changes that occur after pregnancies are to the abdomen and breasts. The abdominal skin is often stretched and loose, and may bear stretch marks. The breasts, especially if a woman breast feeds, may have drooped and lost volume. The classic surgeries that correct these problems are the abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) and the breast lift (mastopexy) with or without breast implants to add volume. In some cases liposuction is also performed at the same time, most often to the hips, back, thighs and/or arms. When multiple procedures are performed together, they are often called a “Mommy Makeover”.
It is important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon if you are considering these types of procedures. You should be done having children and at a stable weight. Potential patients should be in good general health, and preferably be practicing a regular exercise routine. A general medical clearance is needed before proceeding with this type of surgery. It is done under general anesthesia, and should only be performed in an accredited surgery center or hospital. You will need some recovery time – typically several weeks – and if you have young children, you should plan on having help at home for at least the first week.
CLICK HERE TO SEE OUR BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS
How to Decide Breast Implant Size
Breast Implant Sizes
I’m worried that if I get breast implants they will give me a top- heavy look, so I’m trying to figure out what size breast implants should I get. Is there a rule of thumb or tips for choosing breast augmentation sizes? What are my options in breast implant size?
The Best Implant Size
The best size for your breast implant is the size that will achieve your personal goals. Sizing is very subjective. There is simply not one size that is “right” for any body type, but rather a range of sizes that can work based on a patient’s anatomical dimensions. Measurements are important, especially in regards to implant diameters (there are various “profiles” of implants at any given size, which means a specific volume implant will be available in different widths). Our surgeons measure your dimensions to help determine which implants will fit properly in your breasts.
CLICK HERE TO SEE OUR BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS
