Who is a Good Candidate for Breast Augmentation?

Posted on by Dr. Y Anthony Nakamura

Breast augmentation is a cosmetic surgery that enhances the size of a woman’s breasts and/or improves breast asymmetry with breast implants. We offer saline or silicone implants in a range of sizes, making this an easily customizable procedure.

While breast augmentation can have a significant impact on an individual’s body image and self-confidence, it’s essential to approach the decision with realistic expectations and a thorough understanding of the procedure’s benefits and potential risks.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Breast Augmentation?

A healthy woman bothered by the appearance of her breasts and wishing to improve her overall body image is a good candidate for breast augmentation. Patients should have realistic expectations about the procedure’s outcome and recognize that breast augmentation may not solve all body image issues. Additionally, candidates should be non-smokers or willing to stop smoking permanently or for at least six weeks before and six weeks after surgery.

Who Is Not a Good Candidate for Breast Augmentation

While breast augmentation can be a suitable option for many women, it may not be appropriate in some cases. Due to the higher risks involved with surgery, medical conditions like uncontrolled diabetes, heart disease, or a compromised immune system, may prevent women from being good candidates for breast augmentation.

Women currently pregnant or breastfeeding should also wait until after they have finished nursing before considering breast augmentation. Additionally, a breast lift may be a more appropriate option if a woman’s primary concern is sagging or drooping breasts rather than size. A consultation with Dr. Nakamura is needed to determine whether breast augmentation is suitable for your individual needs and circumstances.

Breast Augmentation Results

The outcome of breast augmentation surgery is highly influenced by various things, such as the chosen implant size and type, the surgical approach employed, and the individual’s unique anatomical features. However, breast augmentation is generally known to improve the fullness, symmetry, and size of the breasts, resulting in a more balanced and visually appealing appearance.

It is worth noting that breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that entails certain risks and potential complications. As such, it’s important to follow the recommended postoperative instructions to minimize these risks and ensure the best possible outcome.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’re thinking about breast augmentation, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Nakamura, at our Arlington, TX, practice. Dr. Nakamura has extensive experience performing breast augmentation surgeries and can offer you personalized advice on the best approach to achieve your desired results.

Should You Lose Weight Before Liposuction?

Posted on by Dr. Y Anthony Nakamura

Are you considering liposuction to get rid of those stubborn pockets of fat that just won’t go away even with diet and exercise? If so, you may be wondering if you should lose weight before undergoing the procedure. The answer to this question is not a simple yes or no. It depends on various factors.

What is Liposuction?

Liposuction is a cosmetic surgery procedure that involves the removal of excess fat from different areas of the body. It is often performed on people who have tried diet and exercise but are still struggling with stubborn areas of fat that won’t go away.

Liposuction is typically performed on areas such as the abdomen, thighs, hips, buttocks, arms, and neck. The procedure involves making small incisions in the targeted area, and then using a suction device to remove the fat cells.

While liposuction can help to improve body contour and boost self-confidence, it is not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle. It is important to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon like Dr. Nakamura at Accent On You to determine if liposuction is the right option for you.

Should I Lose Weight Before Liposuction?

If you are significantly overweight, it may be advisable to lose weight before undergoing liposuction. This is because liposuction is not designed to remove large amounts of fat and attempting to do so can result in complications such as unsatisfactory results, excessive bleeding, and prolonged healing time.

On the other hand, if you’re close to your ideal weight but have stubborn pockets of fat resistant to diet and exercise, liposuction may be a suitable option, but weight loss may not be necessary.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to lose weight before liposuction should be made in consultation with your surgeon. They will be able to evaluate your individual case and provide personalized recommendations based on your specific goals.

Other Ways to Prepare for Liposuction

One of the most important ways to prepare for liposuction is by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This includes eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking and alcohol. Additionally, it is recommended that patients stop taking certain medications and supplements that can increase bleeding and bruising.

Another way to prepare for liposuction is to stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water before and after the surgery can help flush out toxins and reduce swelling.

It is also important to arrange for someone to drive you to and from the surgery. They should stay with you for the first few days after the procedure.

It’s also important to discuss any concerns or questions with your surgeon beforehand to ensure a smooth and successful procedure.

Finally, preparing for liposuction also involves mental preparation. Patients should have realistic expectations about the results of the surgery and understand that it is not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’re considering getting liposuction surgery to achieve the body of your dreams, scheduling a consultation with Dr. Nakamura at Accent On You is a great first step. Dr. Nakamura will evaluate your unique needs and goals to determine if liposuction is the right choice for you.

To schedule a consultation today, call our Arlington, TX office at 817-417-7200  or use our online scheduling form.

How to Prepare for a Mommy Makeover

Posted on by Dr. Y Anthony Nakamura

It is safe to say that your appearance often changes after having kids. Getting the body you had pre-pregnancy can take a lot of work. But a mommy makeover may make it a little bit easier. Personalized to your needs, a mommy makeover can leave you feeling more comfortable and confident in your appearance. But before you consider one, you might be wondering what it is and if you need to do anything to prepare. Let’s take a look at what it entails.

What is a Mommy Makeover?

A mommy makeover is a combination of surgical procedures that are meant to sculpt your body back to how it looked pre-pregnancy. People considered good candidates for a mommy maker are those who have multiple areas that could benefit from surgery. This can include breasts, abdomen, waist, and legs. The procedures included in a mommy makeover can include:

A mommy makeover is not a weight loss substitute. Exercise and a healthy diet should still be a part of any healthy lifestyle before and after this procedure.

Preparing for A Mommy Makeover

For mommy makeover surgery to go on as planned, there are some things you need to do to adequately prepare for it.

Testing and Evaluation

You’ll want to get any lab testing and medical evaluation done before the procedure. This ensures there is nothing that will negatively affect the surgery. The evaluation will also ensure nothing will go wrong when you’re under anesthesia. The doctor may give you a physical, ask about any medications you’re taking, and ask about any other medical conditions you have. They will also give you some pre and post-operation instructions you should follow.

Medications

Once your surgeon knows what medication you take regularly, they may adjust your prescriptions or tell you to stop taking certain medications altogether. They will tell you to stop taking any kind of blood thinner including fish oil, vitamin E, ibuprofen, aspirin, and herbal remedies. They increase your bleeding and you don’t want that during a surgical procedure.

You’ll also want to avoid smoking or using any tobacco or nicotine products and stop drinking alcohol. This should be done at least a few weeks before your mommy makeover.

Schedule

You’ll also want to prepare ahead of time for after your mommy makeover. This is the point where you’ll want to arrange for someone to drive you to and from the surgery, ask someone to watch your kids or pets, and prepare some meals. You will likely not be able to cook for the first few days. Prepare some easy meals you or a friend can make for you after surgery. You’ll also want to ensure you get any prescriptions filled so they are there for you when you need them.

Shaving

If you are going to shave, make sure it’s a few days before surgery. Shaving the areas of the body that are undergoing treatment is often recommended. Follow your surgeon’s advice on when and where to shave.

Dress for Comfort

On the day of surgery, you’ll want to dress as comfortably as possible. Buttons or zip-up shirts are recommended but anything that’s not tight or restrictive works. Unless a loved one brings you clothes for after the procedure, you’ll be wearing the clothes you come in after the surgery. You won’t want any tight seams poking into your stitches.

Schedule a Consultation

A mommy makeover addresses several concerns simultaneously. It’s why it’s recommended so often. If you’re considering a mommy makeover, schedule a consultation today. Our staff at Accent On You is more than happy to answer any questions and concerns you may have.

To schedule a consultation at our Arlington, TX office, call us at 817-417-7200 or use our online scheduling form.

 

How Long Does a Mommy Makover Last?

Posted on by Dr. Y Anthony Nakamura

Becoming a mother is a wonderful and transformative experience, but it can take a toll on your body. You’ve probably seen quite a few changes to different parts of your body as you’ve had kids. Restoring your body to its pre-pregnancy shape can be difficult through diet and exercise alone. That’s where a mommy makeover comes in. Let’s dive into what a mommy makeover includes, the recovery period, and how to maintain the results.

What Is A Mommy Makeover?

A mommy makeover is a customized set of procedures designed to restore your body’s pre-pregnancy shape. It typically includes breast augmentation, breast lift, tummy tuck, and liposuction. A breast reduction may also be included. It all depends on your needs and goals.

For the breast surgeries, incisions are usually made in the breast fold or around the areola so any scarring is less noticeable. A tummy tuck includes an incision made from hipbone to hipbone and with liposuction, an incision is made near the area of fat you’re looking to remove.

Throughout a mommy makeover, your surgeon will remove excess skin and fat from the areas of the body you’re looking to address and you are put under anesthesia to ensure your comfort and safety.

At Accent On You, we believe every woman deserves to feel confident in her skin. That’s why we offer a personalized approach to each mommy makeover procedure. During your consultation, Dr. Nakamura will work with you to determine which procedures will help you achieve your desired results.

The Recovery Period

After a mommy makeover, it’s essential to allow your body to rest and recover fully. The recovery period can vary depending on the procedures performed, but most patients can expect to take two to three weeks off work. Additionally, it can take up to six weeks before you can return to your normal level of activity.

After the surgery, you’ll be given a compression garment and your incisions will be covered in bandages. Make sure you wear the compression garment for as long as necessary. It promotes blood circulation and helps reduce swelling.

You will also likely feel sore for the first few days following surgery but this can be managed with pain medication. Make sure you approve any medication you’re taking with your doctor.

After a few days, you can begin walking. It will help with healing and reduce the chance of blood clots. After six weeks, you will likely begin noticing your results and they will only improve after that.

You will also have a few post-op appointments to ensure you’re healing well and that there are no complications.

How To Maintain Mommy Makeover Results

How long the results of your Mommy Makeover last will depend on several different factors, including your age, lifestyle, and overall health. But there are a few tips you can follow to help ensure you maintain the results of the procedure for as long as possible.

Follow a Healthy Lifestyle

The first and perhaps most important step to maintaining your mommy makeover results is to follow a healthy lifestyle. This includes eating a balanced diet, sleeping well, and exercising regularly.

A balanced diet will help you maintain a healthy weight, while exercise will help you stay toned and firm. But make sure to also follow your surgeon’s instructions. Don’t start exercising until your surgeon gives you the go-ahead.

Wear a Compression Garment

After the surgery, your surgeon will recommend wearing a compression garment to help reduce swelling and promote healing. It’s important to wear this garment for as long as your surgeon recommends. The compression garment will ensure you’re as comfortable as possible in the first few days after surgery and will help reduce any bruising you may have.

Avoid Smoking and Drinking Alcohol

Smoking and drinking alcohol can negatively affect healing and increase the risk of complications. It’s important to avoid all nicotine and drinking alcohol for one month before and after the surgery. If you’re a smoker, quitting smoking altogether will not only improve your recovery from a mommy makeover but also benefit your overall health and the health of people around you.

Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions

This is probably the most important thing you can do. Your surgeon will give you specific instructions for your recovery after surgery. Follow them as best as you can. These instructions are meant to ensure you heal properly and can decrease the risk of any complications.

The instructions might include how to wash or take care of your incisions, a timetable for when you can return to work or exercise, and how to manage any discomfort you may be having. If a question comes up that’s not part of the instructions, make sure to call your doctor and they will be able to answer any issues you may have.

Maintain a Healthy Mindset

Maintaining a healthy mindset is also important after a mommy makeover. Focus on the positive changes the procedure has made to your body and don’t compare yourself to others. By maintaining a positive attitude and a healthy lifestyle, you can continue to enjoy the benefits of your mommy makeover for years to come.

It’s also important to understand that, while a mommy makeover can provide significant improvements, it’s not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle. As noted above, a healthy lifestyle is vital to maintaining your results.

Schedule a Consultation

If a mommy makeover sounds like exactly what you’re looking for, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Nakamura at Accent On You. Dr. Nakamura is a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in mommy makeover surgeries. During your consultation, he will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that will help you achieve the results you’re looking for.

To schedule your consultation today, contact our Arlington, TX office at 817-417-7200 or use our online form.

 

 

Will Liposuction Flatten Your Stomach? – What You Need to Know

Posted on by Dr. Y Anthony Nakamura

If you are struggling with your weight and have tried and failed many diet and exercise regimes, liposuction may seem like an appealing option. The media and celebrities have popularized the procedure to help them achieve their desired shape. But what exactly is liposuction and what does the procedure entail? Let’s take a look.

What is Liposuction

Liposuction is a cosmetic surgery that removes excess fat from the body while also sculpting the contours of the underlying tissues. The procedure is relatively safe and often performed along with other cosmetic procedures like breast augmentation, tummy tuck surgery, or liposuction abdominoplasty.

How is Liposuction Performed?

Liposuction surgery can be done using several different techniques. The exact method will depend on the treated area and the patient’s goals. Liposuction, for most patients, is an outpatient procedure that requires general anesthesia. During the procedure, a cannula is inserted into the body for suction. The suction forces out the fat cells.

Does Liposuction Flatten Your Tummy?

Liposuction can reduce the fat in your tummy area and make you look slimmer. The procedure works best with other body contouring procedures like tummy and waist tucks too. This makes it possible to make the stomach look smaller while retaining the size of the pelvis and hips. Overall, it can give your body a more youthful shape and thinner appearance.

Why Consider Liposuction Over Other Procedures?

The cost of liposuction is considerably lower than the price of other procedures https://www.accentonyou.com/3-types-of-surgical-body-contouring/. It’s also possible to have liposuction done in several different places at once, which makes it possible to achieve a whole new look. It all depends on what your goals are. Liposuction can treat a variety of body shapes.

It’s a safe and relatively easy procedure to perform, especially for an experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. Nakamura.

Schedule a Consultation With Accent On You

If you are considering liposuction, schedule a consultation today with Accent On You. Dr. Nakamura and our experienced staff specialize in body contouring and can provide the information you need to decide if liposuction is right for you.

Contact us today by calling our Arlington, TX office or by filling out the online contact form on our website. We’re happy to answer any questions and concerns you have.

3 Types of Surgical Body Contouring

Posted on by Dr. Y Anthony Nakamura

Surgical body contouring is a group of procedures that help to reshape and redefine the body’s contours by removing excess skin and fat. These procedures can help improve the appearance of a person’s body and boost their confidence. Accent On You offers a range of surgical body contouring procedures tailored to meet your needs. There are three types of popular procedures: liposuction, tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), and waist tuck. These procedures help patients achieve a toned, well-proportioned body shape that they can feel proud of.

If you’re considering surgical body contouring, it’s important to understand the benefits and limitations of each procedure. Our board-certified plastic surgeon at Accent On You have years of experience and can help you choose the best procedure for your needs.

Let’s take a closer look at each procedure.

Liposuction

Liposuction is a minimally invasive procedure that removes excess fat from specific body areas, such as the abdomen, hips, thighs, and buttocks. This procedure is ideal for individuals who are at or near their ideal weight but have stubborn pockets of fat resistant to diet and exercise.

During the procedure, small incisions are made in the treatment area. A thin cannula is then inserted to break up and suction out the excess fat. Liposuction is performed under general anesthesia. Most patients return to their normal activities within a few weeks.

Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightens the underlying muscles. This procedure is ideal for individuals who have lost a significant amount of weight, or women who have had multiple pregnancies and are left with excess skin and stretched abdominal muscles.

During the procedure, an incision is made across the lower abdomen and the excess skin and fat are removed. The underlying muscles are then tightened for a more toned and defined abdominal area. Tummy tuck surgery is performed under general anesthesia. It typically requires several weeks of recovery.

Waist Tuck

A waist tuck is a newer body contouring procedure that combines liposuction with skin tightening to create a slimmer waistline. This procedure is ideal for individuals with excess skin and fat around their waistline who want to achieve a more defined silhouette.

During the procedure, liposuction removes excess fat from the waistline. The remaining skin is tightened and lifted, creating a more toned appearance. A waist tuck is performed under general anesthesia. Most patients return to their normal activities within two or three weeks.

Which Is Best for Me?

The best body contouring procedure for you depends on your needs and goals. During your consultation with our plastic surgeon at Accent On You, we will evaluate your current body shape and discuss your desired outcome. We’ll then recommend the best procedure or combination of procedures to help you achieve your goals.

Schedule a Consultation

If you’re ready to achieve your desired body shape, schedule a consultation with Accent On You today. Dr. Nakamura and our experienced staff will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan. Contact us at our Arlington, TX office or by using our online form to schedule a consultation today.

Can I Combine a Breast Lift with Breast Augmentation?

Posted on by Dr. Y Anthony Nakamura

Breast lift with augmentation, also known as mastopexy-augmentation, is a cosmetic surgery that involves elevating the position of sagging breasts and enhancing their size through breast implants. This procedure is designed to address several common concerns, such as loss of volume, droopiness, and loss of firmness, providing a more youthful and aesthetically pleasing appearance to the breast. If you’re considering breast surgery, it’s normal to wonder about how to achieve more than one cosmetic goal at the same time. Breast surgeries can easily be combined – especially breast lift and breast augmentation. Here’s what to know about this combination procedure and what you can expect from Dr. Nakamura.

Who Is a Candidate for Breast Lift with Breast Augmentation?

Ideal candidates for a breast lift with augmentation have realistic expectations, are in good physical health, and do not smoke. Combining a breast lift with augmentation can provide a comprehensive solution to address multiple concerns in one surgery. Having these procedures performed together eliminates the need for multiple surgeries and can save time and money in the long run. However, it’s important to discuss all your concerns and goals with a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Nakamura to ensure that this is the best option for you.

How Is the Breast Lift with Augmentation Performed?

The breast lift with augmentation is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes 2-3 hours to complete. The exact procedure will vary based on the individual needs and goals of the patient, but it typically follows these steps.

  1. Incisions

Dr. Nakamura will make incisions on the breast to access the underlying tissue and muscle. The incision pattern will depend on the amount of skin and tissue that needs to be removed, as well as your anatomy and goals. You’ll discuss the appropriate incision during your consultation.

  1. Repositioning of Nipple and Areola

The nipple and areola are repositioned to a higher, more youthful position on the breast. This may involve resizing the areola and removing excess skin.

  1. Placement of Implants

Dr. Nakamura will then place your selected breast implants either behind the muscle (submuscular placement) or behind the glandular tissue and in front of the muscle (subglandular placement).

  1. Closing of Incisions

The incisions are closed with sutures, and a dressing is applied to the breast. This helps to promote healing and reduce the risk of complications.

After the procedure, you will be taken to a recovery room for observation and to allow the anesthesia to wear off. Most patients experience discomfort, swelling, and bruising, but these side effects should subside within a few days to a week. It is important to follow all post-operative instructions from our team to ensure a safe and successful recovery.

Recovery From Breast Lift With Augmentation

Recovery from a breast lift with augmentation varies from person to person, but most patients can expect some degree of discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the days following the procedure. Dr. Nakamura will prescribe pain medication to minimize discomfort, and you should rest and avoid physical activity for several days. In addition, a surgical bra or bandage should be worn as much as possible to support the breasts during healing. Strenuous activities and exercise should be avoided for several weeks, and you will have follow-up appointments with Dr. Nakamura to monitor your progress. The final results of surgery may take several months to emerge as the swelling subsides and the incisions heal fully.

Schedule a Consultation

At Accent On You, we believe every patient deserves personalized and attentive care, which is why we strive to provide the highest quality plastic surgery experience. If you’re interested in learning more about the benefits of a breast lift with augmentation, or if you’re ready to schedule a consultation, we invite you to fill out our online contact form. Our experienced and knowledgeable team will be happy to answer any questions and help you determine if this procedure is right for you. Don’t wait; take the first step towards achieving your aesthetic goals and schedule a consultation at our Arlington, TX office with Dr. Nakamura today.

10 Tips for Your First Chemical Peel

Posted on by Dr. Y Anthony Nakamura

There’s no better way of rejuvenating your skin than a chemical peel. If you’ve never undergone a chemical peel, then it can cause some nervousness – no need to worry! Chemical peels are an extremely safe and effective skincare treatment in the hands of a board-certified plastic surgeon. Here’s what to know about chemical peels and what you can expect from your aftercare process.

1. Skip Cosmetics and Harsh Products

After your chemical peel, it’s best to avoid wearing makeup or using harsh skincare products while your skin recovers. Depending on the depth of your peel this may be anywhere from a few days to weeks. Once you begin wearing makeup again, start out with light mineral products that won’t irritate or clog the skin.

2. Be Patient – Excellent Results Take Time

It takes time to see the full results of your chemical peel. Not only does a chemical peel get rid of dead and damaged skin cells, but it can also stimulate the production of healthy new collagen. Depending on your unique treatment, it can take a few days or weeks to see the compounding benefits of a chemical peel.

3. Stay Away from High Temperatures

Hot environments like showers, hot tubs, or saunas can irritate the skin after your chemical peel, so they’re best avoided. Additionally, when you cleanse your face, avoid using hot water. Hot temperatures can also damage and strip the skin’s natural moisture, causing it to dry out and compromising your results.

4. Sunscreen is a Must

Sun protection is essential every day, and even more so when you undergo cosmetic treatments like a chemical peel. Going without sunscreen can come with a much higher risk of hyperpigmentation, so make sure to apply sunscreen of at least SPF 30 every day.

5. Adjust your Skincare Routine

After a chemical peel, it’s best to stick to gentle, unscented cleansers and moisturizers. If you have any active ingredients in your skincare regimen, it’s best to consult your skincare specialist or skip them altogether until your skin is healed. If you use prescription-strength retinols, you’ll need to avoid them ahead of your procedure, too.

6. Know When to Schedule Your Next Appointment

Chemical peels work best as a package of treatments to continually treat your concerns. However, the length of time between peels will depend on their strength. For surface-level peels, you may be able to schedule appointments monthly. For deeper peels, it may be longer. Make sure to consult your skincare specialist about when to come back for your next treatment.

7. The Skin Will Peel

As the name suggests, chemical peels will cause your skin to peel. This typically begins after a few days, depending on the depth of your peel. As for how long peeling lasts, it can also depend on your unique treatment. It may be only a couple days or could last for a week.

8. There May Be “Frosting”

Certain kinds of chemical peels can produce an effect called “frosting.” This isn’t something to worry about – it’s simply the skin reacting to the chemical solution after your treatment. However, if you’re concerned about your skin’s appearance in relation to social activities after your procedure, it may be best to reschedule.

9. Several Chemical Peels Deliver Maximum Results

For some patients, a single chemical peel can produce substantial results. However, you may need a few appointments to fully treat your concerns. Make sure to stick to your skincare specialist’s recommendation based on your unique goals.

10. Discuss Side Effects

There’s an assumption that chemical peels are painful and that the side effects are severe. This isn’t always the case – after mild peels, for example, you may simply experience some slight peeling like sunburn. For deeper peels, peeling, flaking, and crusting may be more significant. Make sure to discuss what you can expect from your peel during your appointment with our team.

Schedule an Appointment

Chemical peels are one of the best ways to transform your skin. To meet with our skincare specialists and learn more, contact our Arlington, TX office by calling or filling out our online form.

How Long do Breast Lifts Last?

Posted on by Dr. Y Anthony Nakamura

One of the main holdups of people who want to enhance the projection, youthfulness, or fullness of their breasts through cosmetic surgery is how long the procedure will last. In that regard, artificial implants can have a confounding effect on the longevity of the breast enhancement process, as some can last decades whereas others might not.

A breast lift does not utilize volume-enhancing procedures on its own, but might be helpful for people looking for both a physical lifting of sagging breast tissue as well as volume enhancement. How long will it last? Let’s talk about it.

What is a Breast Lift?

A breast lift is a procedure to reshape the breasts to a more youthful (higher) position on the chest wall. It can also be done in combination with a breast augmentation or reduction. Breast lifts can be performed on people of all ages, most often for those who have been pregnant and had children.

The most common reason for having a breast lift is to improve the shape and size of your breasts after pregnancy and breastfeeding. It eliminates loose skin and stretch marks on the breasts that result from weight gain or loss and the effects of pregnancy. A breast lift may also be recommended if you have a large areola (the darker area around your nipple) or if you want perkier, fuller breasts.

How Long Does a Breast Lift Last?

Breast lifts can last a lifetime, but that depends on the type of lift you have. The most common breast lifts are vertical or anchor lifts. These types of lifts usually last for 10 to 20 years after the surgery.

Additional procedures can alter, if not enhance the longevity of your surgery. For example, breast implants can last 15 to 20 years, while fat injections into the breast may last anywhere between three and 10 years before they begin to show the signs of aging. Breast augmentation surgery can also be combined with a breast lift if desired.

Does a Breast Lift with Augmentation Change the Time It Lasts?

For most patients, the option of adding implants to a breast lift will not affect how long the enhancement will be noticeable. Breast augmentation does not last any longer than a simple breast lift.

When you undergo a breast lift, skin and fat tissue is removed from your chest and then repositioned in their new position. This is usually done under general anesthesia or could potentially be performed under local anesthesia with sedation. Dr. Nakamura will remove excess skin and fat from underneath the nipple and reshape the breast tissue to give it more volume. The nipple itself will remain in its original location but will sit higher on the chest wall than before.

When you have an augmentation at the same time, implants are placed in your breasts between the chest muscle and overlying skin. This creates a more natural look than when implants are placed under the muscle alone because there is less visible scarring when they are placed above the muscle.

Learn More From the Experts on Breast Enhancement

If you’re thinking about getting a breast lift but aren’t sure if you’ll be happy with the results in the long run, don’t hesitate to reach out to our board-certified physician, Dr. Y Anthony Nakamura at Accent On You today. A consultation with his expert opinion and examination can help you decide whether this procedure is right for you at this point in your life.

What to Expect Before and After Breast Lift Surgery

Posted on by Dr. Y Anthony Nakamura

A breast lift can be a beneficial option for several reasons. It can correct sagging or uneven breasts, reshape breasts that have lost volume after pregnancy and breastfeeding, or correct the appearance of breasts following breast reduction surgery. Whatever your reasons for selecting breast lift surgery, it can be helpful to know what to expect. Here’s a quick guide to preparing your your procedure and recovery with the help of Dr. Nakamura.

Preparing for Breast Lift Surgery

You’ll be given detailed instructions by our team on arriving for your surgery. This includes instructions on wearing loose-fitting, easily removable clothing that opens in the front. Additionally, it’s extremely important to leave any and all jewelry or piercings at home. Once you arrive, you’ll meet with Dr. Nakamura and our team to discuss your procedure and sign consent forms You’ll also be given detailed aftercare instructions and information about follow-up appointments. Dr. Nakamura will draw marks on your surgical area and review them with you to ensure the surgical plan is the same as discussed. Finally, you’ll meet with your anesthesiologist and the rest of your surgical team before going into surgery.

After Breast Lift Surgery

After your breast lift surgery, you will wake up in your recovery room. You may feel very tired and groggy. Because of this, you’ll need a close friend, family member, or responsible adult to drive you home. After you go home for your recovery, you may feel some soreness and pain. Our team will prescribe medications to help manage discomfort and swelling so you can rest.

There are some common side effects of breast lift surgery which should be minor and fade within a few weeks. If you experience any severe symptoms, make sure to contact our team right away.

Swelling

Swelling is normal after breast lift surgery, but it should dissipate within 2-3 weeks. To reduce swelling, avoid lying down and keep yourself propped up on some pillows while sleeping. Also avoid elevating your heart rate (light walking around the house is encouraged to prevent blood clots, however). Ice packs can help reduce swelling by constricting blood vessels and bringing down inflammation. Apply an ice pack protected with a towel every two hours during the first day after surgery and then as needed thereafter until swelling goes down (usually 2-3 days). Only apply ice packs for 15 minutes at a time.

Bruising

Bruising is common after a breast lift and may last up to a few weeks. Using ice packs can help reduce bruising as well as avoiding blood-thinning medications like ibuprofen or naproxen. Keep in mind that bruising is temporary and will subside and become less noticeable throughout your recovery.

Infection

Infections are rare but can happen. If you have a fever higher than 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 Celsius) for more than 24 hours or drainage from the incision that doesn’t stop, call our team right away. Other signs of infection can include chills, weakness, a warm feel to the area, puffiness, pain, nausea, and changes in color. Our team will give you a detailed list of things to look out for and who to contact if you notice signs of infection.

Schedule a Consultation

The best way to ensure a good outcome is to choose a board certified plastic surgeon. To meet with our team, contact our Arlington, TX office by calling or filling out our online form.