With so much attention paid to body contouring procedures, it’s common for some people to consider facial plastic surgery an afterthought. But when trying to achieve a new, improved appearance, what better place is there to start than the face? In the hands of an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon, cosmetic surgery for the face can offer patients outstanding, life-changing results. With this in mind, I have answered some common questions about cosmetic procedures for the face to help keep patients informed this holiday season.
Dear Dr. Whiteman,
The appearance of my eyes makes me look way older than I am. Would I be better off undergoing eyelid surgery or a browlift?
Sincerely,
“P”
Dear “P”,
It depends. Both eyelid surgery (also known as blepharoplasty) and a browlift can help provide a more refreshed, younger looking appearance to the areas around the eyes. During eyelid surgery, excess skin on the upper eyelid and small pockets of fat on the lower lids can be removed. A browlift focuses on the placement of the brow by treating frown lines that can make the face appear tired, sad, or angry. In some cases, the procedures can be combined to provide even more comprehensive results for certain patients. However, in order to understand all your options and determine which treatment plan is the right choice for you, it’s important to visit with an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon for a consultation.
Dear Dr. Whiteman,
If I undergo a facelift how long will I need to stay in the hospital after my surgery?
Sincerely,
“J”
Dear “J”,
In most cases, a facelift is an outpatient procedure. This means that unless the patient prefers to do so, they will not be required to stay in the hospital overnight. Pain following facelifts is typically minimal and patients can recover in the comfort of their own home. Although some swelling and bruising will likely occur after your procedure, these effects are temporary. And most people feel quite well after just a couple days. Patients can typically return to work after one or two weeks of recovery, however it can take up to six weeks (or longer) to see the final results of your procedure.
Dear Dr. Whiteman,
I have been self-conscious about a bump on my nose for years and feel I’m finally ready to do something about it. How bad is scarring after a rhinoplasty procedure?
Sincerely,
“C”
Dear “C”,
Scarring following a rhinoplasty is generally very minor. Sometimes the procedure results in a small, barely visible scar at the base of the nose, but this will often fade over time. However, if you are that concerned about it, and you are a good candidate, I also perform a nonsurgical rhinoplasty procedure (sometimes known as a “liquid nose job”) using injectable dermal fillers. Although nonsurgical rhinoplasty cannot alter the shape or size of the nose like a surgical rhinoplasty can, it can help to smooth out bumps and other imperfections.
I hope everyone found these answers helpful. Don’t forget, Southern Plastic Surgery and our Laser Lights Cosmetic Laser Center offer gift cards that are good towards all of our cosmetic services. A gift card from us can be the perfect holiday gift for someone special in your life. If you would like to schedule a complimentary plastic surgery consultation today, please contact me, Dr. David Whiteman, at Southern Plastic Surgery.