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    How Should You Prepare for Rhinoplasty Revision Surgery?

    Tag Archives: Dr. Paul McCluskey

    gdshfhWhile the actual revision rhinoplasty procedure can be completed in about two hours, the planning and preparation process requires considerably more time. Preparation should ideally begin several weeks prior to the date of surgery in order to ensure optimal results and a speedy recovery. The cosmetic surgeon will discuss about the preparation at the time of initial consultation.

    A patient requiring revision rhinoplasty would already have received the primary nose reshaping surgery. The outcome of that procedure may have been unsatisfactory, in part, because of inadequate preparation. Therefore, more caution for preparation must be exercise during the revision procedure. Dr. Paul McCluskey is a leading plastic surgeon providing rhinoplasty revision surgery to patients in Atlanta, GA and surrounding locations.

     

    Pre-operative Tests and Instructions

    Prior to planning for a revision rhinoplasty procedure, the cosmetic surgeon and the medical team will review the patient’s medical history, perform a close examination of the nose and related facial features, and learn about the patient’s personal aesthetic needs and goals. They will also explain the entire procedure to the patient and help them establish realistic expectations.

    Detailed post-operative instructions will be given, which may include avoiding smoking, avoiding certain types of medications, vitamins and herbal supplements, and improving diet several days or weeks in advance. Patients will often be required to undergo detailed blood tests and diagnostic imaging tests of the nose. Several photos of the face and nose will also be taken at this stage.

    The patient will be advised about the estimated downtime involved so that they can make arrangements for help at home or applying leave at the workplace. Experienced plastic surgeon Dr. McCluskey receives patients from Atlanta, GA and nearby areas for rhinoplasty revision surgery.

     

    Arranging Transportation

    The patient should preferably have a family member or friend accompany them on the day of surgery and be ready to drive them back home after the procedure. Revision rhinoplasty is usually performed using general anesthesia or IV sedation. The lingering effects can make the patient groggy for a few hours, making it unsafe for the patient to drive.

     

    Changes in Diet and Nutrition

    In the weeks preceding the revision rhinoplasty surgery, the patient should prepare their body for the changes that are about to occur. If the patient is able to maintain their health and fitness at the peak levels, it will go a long way toward enabling a safe and smooth recovery. Some of the recommended changes may include the following:

    • Avoid blood thinners
    • Adjust any prescription medications in consultation with the physician
    • Stop smoking and avoid alcohol
    • Increase the content of lean proteins in the diet
    • Stock up on ‘soft’ foods for the initial post-op recovery period
    • Inform the surgeon about any illness, including minor ones.

     

    Other Arrangements

    Other things that can help during the post-operative recovery include that the patient should arrange an advance supply of cold compresses and pain medications at home. Preferably, they may also arrange for a caretaker at home for at least the first 48 hours after the procedure. Any critical and physically demanding household chores should be completed before having this surgery.

    If something comes up at the home that requires physical strength, you should have a neighbor or a friend that perhaps you spoke with before to give them a head’s up that you may need their assistance before you are 100% healthy. You should have their phone number in your cell phone for example.

     

    For more information on procedures and treatments offered by Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Paul McCluskey and the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta, visit:

    Rhinoplasty Revision Surgery Before and After Photos | Roswell GARevision rhinoplasty is a complex procedure that should only be performed by a fully trained and experienced cosmetic surgeon. At the time of initial consultation, the surgeon will explain all aspects of the procedure to help the patient make an informed decision.

    Many surgeons also prefer to show rhinoplasty revision surgery before and after photographs at the first appointment. Dr. Paul McCluskey is a dedicated plastic surgeon providing revision rhinoplasty to patients in Atlanta, GA and surrounding locations.

     

    What are Revision Rhinoplasty Before and After Images?

    Before and after images in case of rhinoplasty revision surgery refer to a pair or group of pictures pertaining to an earlier patient who has undergone a very similar surgery with successful results. The pictures include images taken prior to the surgery and after the surgery at a stage when the post-operative bruising and swelling has resolved and full effects of the procedure are visible.

    The cosmetic surgeon will take care to ensure that these images are acquired from the patient with their clear consent and presented before new patients in an appropriate manner. The surgeon’s sole purpose in this case is to use these pictures as a visual aid to educate new patients about different aspects of revision rhinoplasty.

    Digital technology has changed the landscape of human kind. Industry after industry is exploiting the used of this technology and in some cases it has revolutionized the way people think, what they do, how they invest, and so on. The medical community and the plastic surgery field has been inundated with this incredible technology. Now patients can make salient decisions without even having a meeting. When they do meet the surgeon, the meeting is quicker and they are able to make better decisions because they know exactly what to expect. This mitigates the anxiety on both sides of the aisle, certainly the patient’s.

     

    Advantages

    A patient of revision rhinoplasty will usually be much more concerned and anxious about the procedure because they have already been dissatisfied with the primary surgery. The apprehensions can be about whether it is worth it to undergo a revision procedure, how significantly it may improve the appearance of the nose, and whether it will meet all the aesthetic goals of the patient.

    Some patients may require only a minor revision procedure that can be performed as a closed surgery without external incisions. Some other patients, on the other hand, may need to undergo a major revision procedure involving reshaping of the nasal bone, resizing the nostrils or correcting functional obstructions to clear breathing issues.

    In each case, the patient can make better decisions when they have access to revision rhinoplasty before and after photos. Experienced plastic surgeon Dr. McCluskey receives patients from Atlanta, GA and nearby areas for rhinoplasty revision surgery and other procedures.

     

    Keeping Reasonable Expectations

    In any plastic surgery procedure, including revision procedures, it is important to ensure that the patient clearly understands what the procedure can or cannot do for them and forms reasonable expectations. Patients who go ahead with the surgery after gaining a realistic perspective will typically achieve higher satisfaction levels in the end.

    Surgeons prefer such candidates who are willing to view the procedure objectively. Many surgeons encourage their patients to review rhinoplasty revision surgery before and after photos thoroughly before making a final decision. This works to the benefit of everyone involved and minimizes the risk of any disappointment or misunderstanding later on.

     

    Online Photos

    The surgeon may choose to provide revision rhinoplasty before and after photos on their practice website. New patients can conveniently access the photos online and then engage in a more meaningful consultation during their personal visit to the surgeon’s office.

    For more information on procedures and treatments offered by Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Paul McCluskey and the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta, visit:

    Rhinoplasty Revision Surgery Recovery Time | Atlanta | RoswellRevision rhinoplasty procedure may be performed by a cosmetic surgeon if the primary surgery could not accomplish the patient’s aesthetic goals in a satisfactory manner or led to some other aesthetic or functional complications. In most cases, the revision procedure will be more complex than primary rhinoplasty, and will take a little more time for recovery.

    At the time of initial consultation, the plastic surgeon will discuss the estimated recovery time and other issues. The recovery period will also be determined by a few other factors such as the patient’s natural ability to heal and how closely the patient follows the post-operative care instructions of the surgeon. Experienced plastic surgeon Dr. Paul McCluskey provides revision rhinoplasty to patients in Atlanta, GA and surrounding locations.

     

    Aftercare

    The cosmetic surgeon will strongly recommend the patient to have someone accompany them to surgical center for the revision rhinoplasty procedure. In most cases, the patient can return home the same day, but they should have someone to drive them back home.

    Due to the lingering effects of anesthesia or sedation, the patient will not be permitted to return on their own. For the first one or two days after the surgery, the patient should arrange for a friend or family member to stay with them to assist with the daily chores. If the patient has little kids or pets to look after, they may consider hiring additional help for a few days.

     

    Tips for Faster Recovery

    Recovery time can be reduced if the patient follows the surgeon’s instructions carefully during the post-operative phase. They should drink plenty of fluids and keep hydrated as much as possible. A diet rich in lean proteins should be taken to support faster healing.

    Cold compresses can be used in the first two or three days to minimize swelling. Smoking, blood thinning medications, and vigorous exercises must be strictly avoided in accordance with the surgeon’s recommendations for a safer and faster recovery.

     

    First 48 Hours

    The first 24 to 48 hours will be the most difficult part of the revision rhinoplasty procedure. The plastic surgeon will prescribe pain medications to keep the patient comfortable. Lingering effects of anesthesia will disappear completely in about 24 hours. Other common concerns during the first 48 hours will include:

    • Conspicuous swelling in the incision areas
    • Pronounced bruising
    • Nosebleeds
    • Mild headaches

    The face will feel puffy, the nose may ache, and bleeding from the nose may occur. In the first 48 hours, the patient should take special care not to blow the nose in order to ensure safe healing of the internal wounds. Dedicated plastic surgeon Dr. McCluskey receives patients from Atlanta, GA and nearby areas for revision rhinoplasty.

     

    Recovery Over Two Weeks

    Sutures as well as the nasal packing and splint will be removed in about one week to 10 days after revision rhinoplasty. Most patients can return to their normal activities or go to work in about 10 to 14 days. Side effects are usually mild and will dissipate on their own in about two weeks.

     

    For more information on procedures and treatments offered by Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Paul McCluskey and the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta, visit:

    Rhinoplasty Revision Surgery Cost | Plastic Surgery | Atlanta A patient should ideally be able to achieve perfect outcomes with rhinoplasty the first time itself. However, if a need for revision rhinoplasty arises, it can lead to additional costs. The cosmetic surgeon will discuss all aspects, including the estimated costs of revision rhinoplasty, during the initial consultation.

    Patients should be aware that a revision rhinoplasty will usually be more complex and more invasive than the primary surgery. Therefore, the costs may be higher. Dr. Paul McCluskey is a dedicated plastic surgeon providing revision rhinoplasty and other procedures to patients in Atlanta, GA and surrounding locations.

     

    Price Factors

    The monetary amount of revision rhinoplasty procedure can vary between two patients at different practices or even at the same practice. The following key factors will influence the dollar figure of procedure:

     

    Geographical Location

    Where the practice is located makes an important difference to the costs. Prime urban centers and large cities will usually have a higher cost of living as compared to smaller and interior towns. This impacts the costs of most products and services, including plastic surgery services. Therefore, the cost of revision rhinoplasty in Atlanta, GA may not be the same as the dollar amount in, say, Phoenix, AZ.

     

    Fee of the Surgeon

    The cosmetic surgeon will charge a fee according to their qualifications, experience and reputation in the field of rhinoplasty and revision procedures. Revision rhinoplasty is a complex procedure, which should ideally be performed by fully trained and skilled surgeon. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, aspects such as the surgeon’s fee should be secondary to the choice of a surgeon in such procedures.

     

    Anesthesia and Operating Venue Costs

    Revision rhinoplasty may be performed using general anesthesia, particularly if it is an open surgery. The fee charged by an anesthesiologist or a certified anesthetist nurse will vary in relation to their skills and experience. The procedure may be performed at a private surgical suite, an ambulatory surgical center, or a hospital. The costs and benefits associated with each option will also vary.

     

    Extent of Surgery

    If revision rhinoplasty involves only minor cosmetic changes, the plastic surgeon may perform it as a closed procedure. In other cases, an open surgical technique may have to be used, which is more invasive and will take more time to perform. The cost in case of open surgery will be a little higher than closed surgery.

    Some patients may require grafting or implants as a part of revision rhinoplasty, or functional corrections may be necessary along with cosmetic improvements. The dollar amount of surgery may increase in such situations.

     

    Insurance and Financing

    Primary rhinoplasty is usually performed for aesthetic reasons, which will not be covered by insurance. However, in case of revision rhinoplasty, if the patient is suffering from breathing difficulties through the nose, partial or full costs of the procedure may be covered by the insurance provider.

    In any case, most patients will be eligible to receive financing through professional medical care finance companies or traditional sources such as banks, credit cards, and borrowing through friends or family.

    For more information on procedures and treatments offered by Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Paul McCluskey and the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta, visit:

    Rhinoplasty Revision Surgery | Atlanta | Roswell | Plastic SurgeryRhinoplasty may appear to be a minor procedure, but it is one of the most intricate procedures a cosmetic surgeon can perform. If the surgeon does not remain focused on maintaining facial balance, the nose shape may turn out to be attractive, but may not complement the entire face.

    In some cases, an unsuccessful primary rhinoplasty may cause breathing obstructions, in addition to cosmetic problems. All such issues can be corrected by a skilled plastic surgeon by way of revision rhinoplasty. Dr. Paul McCluskey is an experienced plastic surgeon providing revision rhinoplasty and other procedures to patients in Atlanta, GA and surrounding locations.

     

    Open Technique

    While primary rhinoplasty is usually performed as a closed surgery, a revision procedure may require an open surgical technique. Open technique will be relatively more invasive and require a longer time to recover.

    The benefit with open rhinoplasty is that the overlying skin will be removed to expose deeper layers of tissue and enable better visibility of the underlying nasal structures. A skilled cosmetic surgeon will be able to work carefully to conceal any scarring along the columella to produce highly desirable results.

     

    Nose Augmentation

    If nose build-up is required to make it more proportionate to other facial features, the plastic surgeon will usually have two options to replace the lost tissue and cartilage. The first option is to choose patient’s own tissue, which may be harvested from elsewhere in the septum or another part of the body such as the ribs. The other option is to use synthetic nasal implants.

    Advanced synthetic implants are porous and encourage the tissue growth around a framework. Restoration of recessed areas will occur with natural tissue growth. The latest qualities in implants are extremely safe and have minimal risk of infection. Dr. McCluskey receives patients from in and around Atlanta, GA for revision rhinoplasty.

     

    Refinement of Scar Tissue

    One of the common requirements in revision rhinoplasty is refinement of scar tissue. Too much cartilage may adversely affect the appearance of the nose, or create asymmetry in the scar tissue.

    The surgeon can simply reposition what is already in place. If significant nose refinement is required, the surgeon may remove more tissue to create narrower nostrils, or reduce the nasal bridge, or refine the tip of the nose.

     

    Functional Corrections

    In some cases, the primary rhinoplasty may have created an attractive nose in aesthetic terms, but may create unexpected breathing difficulties for the patient. Grafting, turbinoplasty, or other anatomical corrections may be performed to correct nasal airway dynamics and restore normal breathing through the nose, without impacting the cosmetic nasal appearance.

     

    Recovery

    Immediately after the revision rhinoplasty procedure, the patient will experience temporary difficulty breathing through the nose. As the effect of anesthesia wears off, mild pain and soreness in the incision areas is expected. The surgeon may apply a splint outside the nose with soft packing in the nostrils.

    The patient may have to return to the surgeon’s office in three to five days to have the nasal packing removed. The splint is usually removed within a week after the procedure.

    For more information on procedures and treatments offered by Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Paul McCluskey and the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta, visit:

    Plastic Surgery Trends | Atlanta | Roswell | Marietta |Plastic SurgeryA wide range of cosmetic, plastic and reconstructive procedures were performed by cosmetic surgeons in 2014, in addition to various non-invasive and minimally invasive procedures. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) has provided statistics for 2014, which can now be compared with the figures of 2013 to assess the trends in cosmetic procedures.

    The ASPS President Scot Glasberg said that the demand for plastic surgery procedures has continued to rise because advancements in medical and surgical technology are leading to a wider range of treatments. Dr. Paul McCluskey is a dedicated plastic surgeon providing various surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures to patients in Atlanta, GA and surrounding locations.

    Aggregate Growth

    Taking into account both surgical and non-surgical aesthetic procedures, a total of 15.6 million procedures were performed in the US in 2014. This represents an increase of three percent over 2013. Cosmetic surgeons also performed an additional 5.8 million reconstructive procedures in 2014, registering a growth of one percent over 2013. In case of minimally invasive aesthetic procedures, more than 13.9 million procedures were performed in 2014, recording a jump of four percent over 2013.

    Top Five Minimally Invasive Procedures

    The top five cosmetic minimally invasive procedures performed in 2014 included the following:

    • Botox: 6.7 million (up 6 percent)
    • Dermal Fillers: 2.3 million (up 3 percent)
    • Chemical Peels: 1.2 million (up 7 percent)
    • Laser Hair Removal: 1.1 million (up 3 percent)
    • Microdermabrasion: 0.9 million (down 9 percent)

    Leading plastic surgeon Dr. McCluskey receives patients from Atlanta, GA and nearby areas for various surgical and non-surgical procedures of the breast, body, and face.

    Top Five Cosmetic Surgery Procedures

    The number of cosmetic surgery procedures performed in 2014 stood at 1.7 million, which was one percent higher than the previous year. The five most popular procedures in 2014 included the following:

    • Breast Augmentation: 286,254 (down 1 percent)
    • Rhinoplasty: 217,124 (down 2 percent)
    • Liposuction: 210,552 (up 5 percent)
    • Eyelid surgery: 206,509 (down 4 percent)
    • Facelift: 128,266 (down 4 percent)

    Growing Interest in Buttock Enhancement

    One of the fastest growing invasive procedures in 2014 over the previous year was buttock enhancement:

    Buttock Augmentation with Fat Grafting: 11,505 procedures (up 15 percent)

    • Buttock Implant Surgery: 1,863 procedures (up 98 percent)
    • Buttock Lift Surgery: 3,505 procedures (up 44 percent)

    Rise in Breast Reconstruction

    Following a mastectomy, many patients seek breast reconstruction surgery to restore the breast appearance. In 2014, a total of 102,200 breast reconstruction surgeries were performed. This represented a jump of seven percent over the previous year.

    In 2012, the ASPS had launched a multi-year awareness campaign to educate, engage, and empower women to make informed choices about breast reconstruction. This effort has led to more women seeking this surgery following a mastectomy.

    Increase in Male Procedures

    In 2014, as many as 26,175 male breast reduction surgeries were performed. The number of pectoral implant procedures for men stood at 1,054 in 2014, recording a growth of 204 percent over 2013. Since 2000, men’s interest in cosmetic surgery procedures has grown consistently.

    For more information on procedures and treatments offered by Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Paul McCluskey and the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta, visit:

    10 Do’s and Don’ts to Prepare for Rhinoplasty Surgery | Roswell GAIn the weeks prior to and following the rhinoplasty surgery, the patient should prepare their body for the changes that will occur. Taking some simple steps to stay healthy before and after surgery will go a long way to enable a good recovery. The cosmetic surgeon will provide various instructions, which should be followed diligently. Dr. Paul McCluskey is an experienced plastic surgeon providing rhinoplasty to patients in Atlanta, GA and surrounding locations.

     

    Do’s

     

    Adjust your Diet and Nutrition Regimen

    Increase the intake of fibrous foods in order to improve digestion. It will support the body against constipation that may occur following post-operative medications and anesthetics. Avoid alcohol as far as possible. Take vitamin C and iron supplements to promote healing.

     

    Stock up on Medications

    Fill prescriptions for pain medications, antibiotics and sleeping aids. Assemble supplies for cold compresses to reduce swelling after rhinoplasty. You may also stock up on easy-to-prep foods and choose “soft” foods for the first few days.

     

    Arrange for Reliable Transportation and Caretaker

    The cosmetic surgeon will ask you to arrange for someone to drive you back home after rhinoplasty. You may also arrange in advance for a caretaker at home for at least the first 48 hours. Enlist the assistance of your family members or friends who can offer physical and emotional support.

     

    Apply for Leave for about 10 Days from Job

    If you are working, you should plan to take off from work for at least one to two weeks following rhinoplasty. You may return to the workplace once the sutures and cast have been removed. However, choose less strenuous activities at work for a few days.

     

    Do any Major Tasks Prior to Surgery

    If you have to undertake some urgent repairs at home, devote time to your child’s health, or attend some important social or professional duties, try to complete them prior to surgery. Schedule your rhinoplasty procedure at the most convenient time.

     

    Don’ts

    Do not apply Makeup on the Day of Surgery

    Do not apply any cosmetic products to the face or hair on the day of surgery. But wash your face thoroughly to reduce bacteria and debris. Do not eat or drink for at least eight hours prior to rhinoplasty, and get a good night’s sleep.

     

    Avoid Anxiety and Do not Harbor Doubts

    Be fully aware of the nose reshaping procedure in order to minimize surprises or disappointments at the last minute. Feeling confident about the surgery is important, so freely clarify all doubts and concerns with the surgeon.

     

    Do not take Certain Medications and Supplements

    Avoid aspirin, NSAIDs, vitamin E supplements, or herbal medications such ginseng for at least two weeks prior to rhinoplasty. Some herbs can interfere with anesthesia, so it is advisable to avoid them.

     

    Do not Smoke

    Smoking will alter the blood flow, which could interfere with the healing process after rhinoplasty. Therefore, stop smoking at least two weeks before surgery and continue to refrain from smoking for a few weeks after the surgery.

     

    Do not Perform Vigorous Activities

    Following rhinoplasty surgery, light walking and minor household activities are recommended. But you must avoid vigorous activities and exercises for two to four weeks. Leading plastic surgeon Dr. McCluskey receives patients from Atlanta, GA and nearby areas for rhinoplasty.

    For more information on procedures and treatments offered by Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Paul McCluskey and the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta, visit:

    5 Things to Prepare the Skin Before and After Liposuction | RoswellIndividuals with healthy, stable weight will usually make appropriate candidates for liposuction. The cosmetic surgeon will assess the skin quality prior to the procedure to determine candidacy. If skin elasticity is poor, liposuction may have to be performed in conjunction with a body lift procedure. Dr. Paul McCluskey is a leading plastic surgeon providing liposuction to patients in Atlanta, GA and surrounding locations.

     

    Avoid Fad Diet Programs and Maintain Stable Weight 

    Prior to liposuction surgery, it is essential that you maintain a healthy and stable weight, which can be sustained in the longer run. However, do not choose a fad diet, whether HCG or others, to clear your candidacy for liposuction.

    Follow a balanced diet and an active lifestyle with regular exercises under the guidance of an instructor. That will improve your fitness level, make you a good candidate for liposuction, and support faster recovery and reduced risk of complications.

     

    Protect against Direct Sun Exposure and Use Sunscreen

    Sun damage is a common problem, which can hamper the creation of ideal outcomes with liposuction surgery. Sun exposure can also cause the skin to become loose over time, which will make liposuction less effective. In fact, if skin laxity is high, liposuction may only worsen the appearance of the treated area.

    Use a sunscreen everyday to protect the skin against harmful UV rays. Exercise more caution in the weeks preceding liposuction procedure. The cosmetic surgeon will give post-operative instructions about protecting the treated area against sun exposure for several weeks or months.

     

    Follow a Healthy Diet, Regular Exercise, and Reduce Stress 

    Follow a healthy diet plan, preferably under the guidance of a nutritionist before and after liposuction. Increase the intake of lean proteins in your diet, which will support faster healing. Maintain a regular exercise and fitness regimen, which will keep your skin more elastic and supple and help to achieve better results with liposuction.

    Learn as much as you can about liposuction in advance. This will reduce your stress and anxiety levels. Seek emotional support of your friends and family to make your liposuction journey smoother.

     

    Consider Lymphatic Massage after Surgery

    Inquire with your plastic surgeon well before the liposuction about lymphatic massage or other alternative procedures after the surgery. Healthy and scientific massage along with manual drainage will promote faster healing and enhanced aesthetic results.

    A more natural, healthy healing will restore skin glow and softness of the skin in the treated area. Swelling will subside faster and improvements in the skin will reveal early.

     

    Follow Post-Op Care Instructions Diligently

    Follow the surgeon’s instructions carefully with regard to wearing of compression garments, performing mild walking in the home, gradual resumption of light exercises, and limitations regarding lifting of weights.

    Rest adequately and do not return to work earlier than what the surgeon advises. Empty the drains as instructed and keep the incision area clean to minimize the risk of infection. Dr. McCluskey receives patients from Atlanta, GA and nearby areas for liposuction.

    For more information on procedures and treatments offered by Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Paul McCluskey and the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta, visit:

    10 Do's and Don'ts to Prepare For Tummy Tuck Surgery | Roswell GATummy tuck surgery or abdominoplasty is a major surgical procedure requiring some preparation to help ensure a safe and smooth surgery and recovery. The cosmetic surgeon will provide a list of do’s and don’ts to be followed as part of preparation. Dr. Paul McCluskey is an experienced plastic surgeon providing tummy tuck and other procedures to patients in Atlanta, GA and surrounding locations.

     

    Do’s

    Create a Strong Support System around Yourself 

    When you undergo tummy tuck surgery, chances are that you may experience severe emotional ups and downs or mood swings. These emotions can range from a feeling of depression to elation. You should enlist the support of close family and friends who can devote some time and effort to take care of you.

     

    Stay Committed to the Healing Process

    Tummy tuck procedure will involve at least one to two weeks of downtime, depending on the surgical technique. It will take another several weeks for the swelling to subside completely and for the patient to feel completely “normal” again. Patience, focus, and follow-ups are essential through this journey for a sound and sustainable recovery.

     

    Get Involved in Healthy Relaxation Activities

    Read books and magazines, surf the Internet, watch movies at home and perform mild household activities in the first two weeks after tummy tuck surgery. Do not return to work too early, and maintain a relaxed schedule for a few days.

     

    Maintain Close Communication with the Surgeon 

    Prior to the tummy tuck surgery, you should share all relevant health information, habits and other concerns frankly with the cosmetic surgeon. After the procedure, if you experience any abnormal pain or other signs, or have any doubts, do not hesitate to speak with the surgeon.

     

    Eat a Healthy, Protein-rich Diet

    Prior to abdominoplasty, start taking a high protein diet about two to four weeks in advance. Continue this diet even after the surgery for a few weeks under the guidance of a nutritionist. Make sure you are not constipated and avoid any crash dieting.

     

    Don’ts

     

    Use Any Form of Tobacco

    If you consume tobacco in any form, stop using it at least four to six weeks before and after the tummy tuck surgery. Smoking and other forms of tobacco will create poor healing, and may increase the risk of bleeding during surgery.

     

    Avoid Rapid Weight Loss

    If you have been trying to lose weight through special crash diet formulas, weight loss drugs or other means, you will have to stop it several weeks prior to the surgery. Maintain a stable, healthy body weight as far as possible before tummy tuck surgery.

     

    Don’t Use Herbal Meds and Aspirin

    Stop the use of any blood thinners such as aspirin or motrin at least two weeks before tummy tuck surgery. If you are taking herbal medications, vitamin E supplements, or certain prescription drugs, they may have to be stopped as well.

     

    Be Regular on Your Bowel Regimen

    Eat plenty of fibrous foods and natural fruit and veggies, exercise daily, and stay regular on your bowel regimen prior to the tummy tuck surgery. In case you get constipated following the surgery from medications and the anesthetic, you can tolerate it for a while until your mobility improves.

     

    Arrange for Transportation and Aftercare

    Arrange in advance for someone to drive you back home after the tummy tuck procedure, and if possible, hire some help for a few days during post-operative recovery. Experienced plastic surgeon Dr. McCluskey receives patients from Atlanta, GA and nearby areas for tummy tuck.

    For more information on procedures and treatments offered by Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Paul McCluskey and the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta, visit:

    Tummy Tuck Plastic Surgery Alternatives | Roswell | Marietta | AtlantaExcess fat tissue accumulation in the abdominal area can compromise the body contour. In many cases, the cosmetic surgeon may recommend tummy tuck surgery to reduce loose skin and excess fat in the abdomen, and in some cases, also tighten the underlying abdominal muscles. However, tummy tuck is a major procedure, and not everyone may be a suitable candidate.

    In cases where the abdominal muscles are still tight or the skin is fairly elastic, the plastic surgeon may offer tummy tuck alternatives such as liposuction or mini tummy tuck. These are relatively less invasive procedures, and may be performed without general anesthesia. Leading plastic surgeon Dr. Paul McCluskey provides tummy tuck as well as its alternatives to patients in Atlanta, GA and surrounding locations.

     

    Liposuction

    Liposuction in the abdominal area may be performed by a cosmetic surgeon to slim and reshape the abdomen through removal of localized excess fat deposits. The patient should have moderate and stable body weight and a reasonable amount of skin elasticity and good muscle tone in the tummy area in order to achieve best results.

    Liposuction is usually performed using the tumescent technique, which involves only local anesthesia. The surgeon will place very small incisions in discreet areas around the abdomen, and inject a large volume of saline solution and anesthetic to minimize bleeding, bruising, and pain.

    A thin, hollow cannula will then be inserted through the incisions to dislodge stubborn fat cells. The fat cells will be suctioned out through a syringe or a surgical vacuum attached to the other end of the cannula. Once the procedure is completed, the incisions will be closed with sutures. Enhanced abdominal contours will gradually be established as the bruising and swelling disappears.

    It is important to note that liposuction is only suitable in the tummy and flanks area when the skin laxity is not excessive. The procedure can be performed on an outpatient basis, recovery is much faster, and relatively painless as compared to a traditional tummy tuck surgery. Sometimes laser, ultrasound or RF techniques may be combined to make abdominal liposuction more effective.

     

    Mini Tummy Tuck

    Partial abdominoplasty or mini tummy tuck is ideally suited for patients who only require minor removal of abdominal skin, and do not have a significantly protruding abdominal muscle wall. If the tummy is beginning to sag due to aging, or the candidate wants to sculpt a reasonably slim tummy into a more attractive shape may receive a mini tummy tuck procedure from a qualified plastic surgeon.

    Mini tummy tuck is usually performed using local anesthesia and mild sedation. The incision length will depend on the amount of abdominal skin to be removed. In any case, the incision will be smaller than in the case of a full tummy tuck. The procedure is also sometimes called a ‘scarless tummy tuck’ because of the smaller incision and discreet scarring.

    Repositioning of the navel is not involved in this procedure. Sometimes the surgeon may combine mini tummy tuck with liposuction to create a more appropriate abdominal shape. Dr. McCluskey receives patients from Atlanta, GA and nearby areas for this procedure.

     

    For more information on procedures and treatments offered by Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Paul McCluskey and the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta, visit: