Answering questions about plastic surgery from my patients is a part of my job as a board-certified plastic surgeon. In fact, I pride myself on being able to provide answers to my patients that will inform, assure, and comfort them in preparation for their upcoming plastic surgery. This month, instead of focusing on one specific procedure or topic, I thought it would be helpful to address a range of cosmetic procedures that I perform. Keep reading for answers to common questions about rhinoplasty, breast reduction surgery, and thigh lift surgery.
Question #1: How long do I have to wait after rhinoplasty to drink alcohol again?
As with any other plastic surgery procedure, the post-surgery recovery period after rhinoplasty is of critical importance to patients. It’s important to relax and avoid activities like drinking alcohol that can negatively affect the process. Alcohol consumption can contribute to increased swelling, dehydration, and blood thinning, all of which affect the body’s ability to properly heal after your rhinoplasty. Every patient is different, but I would wait at least two weeks as a general rule.
Question #2: Is it possible to have a breast reduction and get breast implants at the same time?
This may seem odd to some people, since breast reduction surgery is obviously intended to help patients who want to decrease their breast size and implants are commonly used during breast augmentation to help women increase their natural breasts. However, there are cases where a woman would like to reduce her natural bust, while enhancing the shape of the breasts (especially in the upper breast pole). Performing breast reduction with breast implants can help these patients reduce their breast size, but maintain shape and fullness.
Question #3: How noticeable will my scarring be after a thigh lift?
The extent of a patient’s scar after a thigh lift procedure depends on the type of thigh lift they undergo and where the surgical incision is made. For instance, an inner (or medial) thigh lift will require an incision in the groin area. During an outer (or lateral) thigh lift, the incision is often made just below the crease of the buttocks. However, scarring after a thigh lift can often be concealed in hard-to-notice areas and will fade dramatically over time with proper care.
I understand that every new patient will have their own unique questions and concerns regarding their cosmetic surgery. Still, these answers can serve as a great jumping off point for many people interested in plastic surgery. For more information or to schedule a complimentary plastic surgery consultation, please contact me, Dr. David Whiteman, at Southern Plastic Surgery today. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for additional plastic surgery tips, news, and so much more.