I thought I’d share 5 of the common myths and truths about plastic surgery on my blog. These are topics patients commonly ask me about.
Myth: Exercise can get rid of excess skin and fat on your abdominal area.
Truth: Unfortunately, this is not true, especially after you’ve had children. I typically perform a tummy tuck along with liposuction to alleviate these problems. Once the muscles and skin have been stretched, tummy tuck surgery is the way to repair them. Liposuction then removes the excess fat to give a more sculpted appearance.
Myth: Fat from one part of my body can be removed and used in another area.
Truth: This is true and an exciting new frontier in plastic surgery. I am using this technique, especially in breast surgeries (i.e., augmentation). For instance, I can use liposuction to remove fat from your abdomen and inject it into your breasts in lieu of or in conjunction with implants. I can also inject it into various areas of the face to provide a rejuvenated look.
Myth: Facelifts are performed the same way for every patient.
Truth: This could not be farther from the truth! Each of my patients will have individualized needs and desires to achieve their outcomes. Facelifts can range from a minimal procedure that focuses specifically on the jowls, mid face or eyes to a more comprehensive lift that can address the overall face.
Myth: Breast augmentation should be performed after a patient is done having children.
Truth: This is not necessarily true. Pregnancy and nursing can cause breast tissue to sag and shrink, but each individual is different. I tell my patients that for the best results it may be smart to wait and have this surgery after they are done having children. However, because many women are starting a family later in life, I discuss the pros and cons with each patient individually to help them make the best decision.
Myth: Fat can come back after liposuction surgery.
Truth: This is not true. Fat does not come back after this procedure. Fat cells are determined at birth. Depending on any weight fluctuations you have, they will get bigger or smaller throughout the course of your life. But, once you have liposuction (for instance, in your abdomen) the fat is gone for good in that specific area.