From Tummy Tucks to Breast Implants: Lubbock Mommy Makeovers Boost Confidence

Pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding can change a woman’s body in drastic ways. The breasts and belly stretch to accommodate a baby’s needs, and it is often very difficult or impossible for women to regain their pre-pregnancy figure. A mother’s stomach can be left with loose, hanging skin, which cannot be resolved through diet and exercise. The breasts have a tendency to appear deflated or saggy after months and months of nursing. Some women also develop areas of stubborn fat in different locations on their bodies. Whether you want breast implants in Lubbock, a tummy procedure, or liposuction, Dr. Jane Rowley has the experience and skill to give you the results you want. Mommy makeovers are all unique, but they help women look and feel like themselves again after going through these dramatic changes. 

If you are past your childbearing years and find yourself avoiding mirrors or feeling dissatisfied with your body, a mommy makeover may be right for you. “Mommy makeover” is a popular phrase used to describe the surgical work to correct the common physical changes that can occur during and following a pregnancy. Most often this includes procedures for your breasts and abdomen to lift, tighten, and tuck where needed. The overall goal for patients seeking a mommy makeover is to rejuvenate areas that were hit hard by the tolls of pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding.

Millennial Mommies

Whether you realize it or not, you probably already know someone who has had a mommy makeover. Combining plastic surgeries to correct cosmetic problems caused by having children isn’t a new idea. The latest generation of mothers having the procedures done may just be more open to talking about it – making the whole concept of plastic surgery less taboo. By posting on social media, women are sharing their cosmetic journeys and helping each other become more familiar with the benefits of plastic surgery. They understand that the goals of cosmetic surgery are less about vanity and more about building self-confidence.   

Don’t Need Breast Implants? Lubbock Has Other Options 

Mothers rarely make it past pregnancy and breastfeeding without significant changes to their breasts. Women who once were happy with their breasts are left with nothing but flaps of skin. Other women find their breasts to be a source of discomfort as they have increased in size. Whatever effect motherhood has had on your breasts, there are several options that can be combined in different ways to meet your specific needs.

Breast Lift 

After nursing for months or even years, breasts can look deflated, saggy, and begin to point downward. A mommy makeover with a breast lift, or mastopexy, can remove excess skin, shift the location of the nipple, and reduce the size of the areola. The breasts are “lifted” to a better shape and position to allow the breasts to sit higher and to provide more outward projection. A breast lift is for women who are bothered by the amount of sagging in their breasts that cannot be resolved with the addition of breast implants. In Lubbock, the procedure is rejuvenating and makes women appear more youthful, but it does not increase the size of their breasts.

By adding a breast lift to your mommy makeover surgery, you will be able to address the sagging in your breasts at the same time as the other procedures you select. Your breasts will take up to four to six weeks to heal completely. Most patients need to take five to ten days off work during their initial recovery period, but you may need to give yourself more time if you plan on having another procedure such as a tummy tuck.   

Breast Augmentation

Women who experience a significant loss of breast volume after nursing may find breast implants in Lubbock to be the best option to increase breast size. This procedure comes with many options to customize your outcome. Whether you want to achieve a natural enhancement or a more dramatic change, your surgeon can help guide your choices to give you the look you want. Breast implants come in many sizes, types, and profiles. Silicone gel breast implants are the most popular choice for breast enlargement patients today, but some women opt for saline implants and love their results. Low, moderate, and high profile implants are available to further the personalization of your enhancement. 

Implants can be paired with a breast lift if the breasts droop or sag significantly. Let your plastic surgeon guide you as you choose an implant size; implants that are too large can weigh the breasts down and work against your breast lift procedure. When a patient undergoes mastopexy with the addition of correctly sized breast implants in Lubbock, the result is a perkier, fuller bust with an added boost of confidence. 

Breast Reduction

Women’s breasts react to pregnancy, hormones, and nursing in different ways. While some may get smaller or begin to appear deflated, others can actually become larger.

Bigger breasts may seem like a dream come true, but many women with very large breasts suffer from discomfort or even chronic pain. The heaviness of their chest pulls on their neck, back, and shoulder muscles, making everyday activities difficult and uncomfortable. Even the most expensive bras struggle to support some large breasts. It is common for bra straps to create redness and grooves in women’s shoulders as they dig into the skin under the weight of the breasts. These women also suffer from skin irritation under their breasts and can even experience rashes or infection. If you have uncomfortably large breasts, you can have a mommy makeover without breast implants in Lubbock. You can resolve all of these issues with a breast reduction.  

To reduce the size of your breasts, your plastic surgeon will make incisions through which excess breast tissue and skin will be removed. Dr. Rowley always includes a lift during her breast reduction procedures, giving her patients the most out of their surgical experience. Large, elongated, and even pendulous breasts can be made into a smaller, more manageable size. Women who have breast reduction are some of plastic surgery’s happiest patients because of the immense relief they feel after the procedure. Your mommy makeover may include a breast reduction to return to a more comfortable size and shape. 

Procedures for the Body

Many of the changes that occur to women’s bodies as they bear children heal over time, but some do not. Bellies that have stretched and muscles that have been separated to fit another human often will not shrink back to pre pregnancy size on their own. Whether or not you choose breast implants in Lubbock as part of your mommy makeover, you have the option of including a body contouring procedure as well. You may want to consider whether the following procedures could make a difference for you on your personal road to recovery.

Liposuction

When you get the green light from your doctor after childbirth, getting back to your normal workout routine can feel so invigorating. Setting goals and working off the baby weight will do wonders for your health, but it can be frustrating when those efforts don’t do anything for fatty trouble spots on your body. The older women get and the more pregnancies they have, the more likely they are to develop these areas of stubborn fat deposits. Many women even reach their goal of getting back to their pre-baby weight, but still don’t love what they see in the mirror.  

Liposuction gives you a shapely body contour by targeting those areas and suctioning out the fat that diet and exercise can’t touch. It is not a weight loss procedure, but it can help you smooth out those areas that are hard to target at the gym. Patients can opt to have one or multiple locations treated with liposuction. If you have just a small area of excess fat, you may be able to receive liposuction with a local anesthetic. Patients with larger or multiple areas of fat will need to undergo general anesthesia, especially if they are combining liposuction with breast implants in Lubbock. 

Tummy Tuck

Women who’ve had children seek this procedure when they have excess skin on their abdomen. Jogging, sit-ups, planks, and pilates can all help you lose weight and strengthen your core, but none of these exercises will get rid of stretched out skin. A tummy tuck helps flatten the tummy by getting rid of loose, hanging belly skin and excess fat. Not only does loose skin become a problem for women who have had children, but the abdominal muscles are often affected as well. Core muscles that become separated and weak during pregnancy are tightened during a tummy tuck, which improves posture and lower back pain. The procedure also corrects diastasis recti and can even ease symptoms of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) by removing pressure from the bladder. 

Pregnancy affects each woman in unique ways, which means some women may have more excess belly skin than others. A tummy tuck can be customized to fit the needs of any mother who wants her stretched out skin to be firm and flat again. Consider which of these three approaches to abdominoplasty might best help you reach your goals.

  • Mini-Tummy Tuck: Although its name might sound cute, a mini-tummy tuck is still an invasive plastic surgery. The procedure is “mini” in nature because it addresses the muscles and excess skin in the lower abdomen only. The belly button is typically left intact. The incision can be shorter for a mini-tummy tuck, which results in less scarring than a traditional abdominoplasty procedure. This method is for patients whose loose skin is limited to the area beneath the navel.
  • Standard Tummy Tuck: A standard abdominoplasty removes excess skin and repairs the muscles of the full abdomen. During this procedure, the belly button is moved to a new location and stretch marks are removed. The incision can reach horizontally from hip to hip, but is easily hidden under swimwear. 
  • Extended Tummy Tuck: This procedure is much like the traditional version, except that the incision is elongated to run past the hips. With a longer incision, your plastic surgeon can remove even more excess skin and fat. An extended tummy tuck is generally the best option for patients who have lost drastic amounts of weight, but can be used for mommy makeovers with breast implants in Lubbock as well.  

No matter which type of tummy tuck you select, the result will be a flatter, firmer-looking tummy and a slimmer, more confident mommy.

Expected Recovery Time

The more procedures you include in your mommy makeover, the more dramatic the changes will be to your body. With each added procedure there will be added recovery time as well as added risks. If they are just getting breast implants, Lubbock women will have a shorter recovery period than those who opt for multiple surgeries. Every patient handles pain and healing differently. The average recovery time for a mommy makeover is three to four weeks. You will need to have help with family responsibilities and household jobs while you recover from your surgery. The longer you can give your body to recover, the better your healing will go. Watch the video below to learn more about what you can expect from a mommy makeover with Dr. Jane Rowley.

The New You

When you are finished having children and want to give some attention to your personal appearance, a mommy makeover in Lubbock can help. You don’t have to live with saggy breasts, hanging belly skin, stretch marks, or stubborn fat on your hips. A mommy makeover can help you get back to feeling and looking your best. With any plastic surgery procedure, it is important to consult with your doctor and discuss your expectations, learn as much as you can about what will happen during and after the surgery, and have a post-surgery plan figured out. For everything from liposuction to breast implants, Lubbock trusts Dr. Jane Rowley because she has the experience and the skills to achieve each of her patients’ unique goals. Come in today to meet her caring staff and schedule your consultation appointment.

More Women than Ever are Considering the Mommy Makeover in Lubbock

Ideas about plastic surgery have evolved in recent years. First, we saw the rise of our social media culture. With it, more and more people have felt motivated to change the things they disliked about their looks. Now, with more meetings than ever being held over web cameras, many people are discovering things about their appearance that they would like to improve. We can’t deny the fact that technology has changed the way we see ourselves, and we all want to look our best in every angle of the camera’s eye. Gone are the days when plastic surgery was only for the rich and famous. People are opening up to the idea of plastic surgery to help them achieve the look they want online and in everyday life. Whether you want a complete mommy makeover in Lubbock, a rejuvenating facial procedure, or anything in between, Dr. Jane Rowley is the plastic surgeon you can trust.

The Numbers Don’t Lie

Think of your three closest friends. Chances are, one of them is considering plastic surgery. According to a recent survey conducted by the Harris Poll for RealSelf, 37 percent of people in America are giving genuine thought to having a cosmetic procedure done in the next 12 months. Many American women express dissatisfaction with their appearance after having children—hence the growing popularity of the mommy makeover in Lubbock. Whether or not you are already part of the population reflected in this statistic, plastic surgery could be the answer for your body image concerns. 

Current Trends in Plastic Surgery

The study on RealSelf revealed that 49 percent of Americans considering cosmetic procedures are under the age of 45. Younger adults are changing the way we think about beauty and the procedures that often go along with it. The rise in popularity isn’t just confined to minimally invasive procedures like Botox; surgical procedures have seen notable gains as well. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), the top five surgical cosmetic procedures in 2019 were:

The ASPS reports that breast augmentation has been the top cosmetic surgical procedure since 2006. Eyelid surgery gained popularity with a two percent increase since 2018. With so many advancements in technology and safety, it’s no surprise that so many people are turning to plastic surgery to feel happier with their appearance.

Combining Procedures for a Mommy Makeover in Lubbock

Three of the most popular plastic surgeries (breast augmentation, liposuction, and tummy tucks) are often done together in what is commonly referred to as a mommy makeover. Breast reductions are also a popular choice for mommy makeovers. Women frequently have multiple areas of concern on their bodies after having children. The stretching of the tummy and breasts creates changes in a woman’s body that are difficult or impossible to address without plastic surgery. These undesirable changes in the breasts and tummy can have a detrimental effect on a woman’s confidence and self-esteem. A mommy makeover restores the body to its pre-pregnancy appearance allowing mothers to forget worrying about their looks and focus on more important things. 

If you’re already considering a mommy makeover in Lubbock, you probably have an area or two on your body that you’d like to change. You may be unhappy with the size and shape of your post-pregnancy breasts, a lingering saggy stomach, stretch marks, or even pockets of fat on your body that don’t seem to budge with diet and exercise. If this sounds at all familiar, a mommy makeover can offer the benefits of restoring a youthful bust and flattened tummy. After visiting our Lubbock office, your clothes and swimwear will fit better, and you will find a refreshed sense of confidence in your appearance. Watch the video below to learn more about combining procedures for a mommy makeover with Dr. Jane Rowley.

Mommy Makeover Benefits 

Having children affects the body in many ways. The increase in stress can cause weight gain, stretched skin creates unwanted sagging, abdominal muscles can separate and weaken, and the breasts may become saggy or deflated after months or years of breastfeeding. But, thanks to plastic surgery, moms don’t have to live with these changes forever. Combining several surgical procedures together to restore your pre-pregnancy body has only recently gained the catchy title of a “mommy makeover,” but the approach and procedures themselves are not new and have a long-time record of being both safe and successful. There are several advantages when procedures are done in conjunction with one another.

  • Avoid multiple operations – When you combine procedures for a mommy makeover in Lubbock, you save money on the costs of the facility, anesthesia, and extra appointments. Your risk factor goes down as well because you will only be put under one time, on one day, in one operating room. Having all of your enhancements done at the same time also means you won’t have to wait an extended period of time to see the results of your surgeries. Your transformation can happen all at once, rather than gradually as you plan for multiple procedures.
  • Just one downtime – Downtime is all too rare an occasion for most moms. When you look at your calendar, how many weeks are there that would be convenient for you to be recovering from surgery? Probably not too many. Having your procedures done at the same time means you only have to heal once. You can get back to your routine and not have to worry about planning for more recoveries. It is important to remember that the more procedures you have at once, the longer your recovery will likely be. True, your healing will happen all at the same time, but patients should take off plenty of time from work or other responsibilities to give themselves the best chance at proper healing.
  • Dramatic results – Whether you simply want to get your pre-baby shape back or go above and beyond that, a mommy makeover can transform your body and your confidence. Moms deserve to feel good about the way they look and if that means tightening their tummies and reshaping their breasts, then the right choice might be a mommy makeover in Lubbock.

Getting Your Body Back

Pregnancy and breastfeeding affect every woman’s body in unique ways. While you may have seen your breasts get smaller and smaller with each baby you nursed, your friend might have experienced unwanted growth in her cup size. And while every mother’s belly stretches to accommodate her growing baby, women can develop deposits of excess fat in other areas of their bodies. A mommy makeover can address each of these cosmetic issues in a way that is customized to each individual patient. Here is a breakdown of how a mommy makeover in Lubbock addresses some of the unwanted changes that come with pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Loose belly skin: Perhaps the most common problem for women after having children is the leftover loose skin on their bellies. No matter how many crunches you do or carbs you cut, that hanging skin is going nowhere. In addition, many mothers experience diastasis, which happens when the abdominal muscles are separated. Abdominoplasty, or a tummy tuck, is a popular mommy makeover procedure because it gets rid of the excess skin on the abdomen and tightens those separated muscles. If motherhood has given you a muffin top, loose skin, weakened abs, or a belly pooch, a tummy tuck can give you the flat tummy you desire. 

Breast Issues: Many women who were happy with their breasts before they had children often no longer feel the same way afterwards. Breastfeeding and even pregnancy itself stretch the skin of the breasts. They grow heavier and denser as the pregnancy progresses, and the nipple and areola can change in shape, size, and color as well. These changes may come as a welcome surprise to some women, but after the baby arrives and the baby weight is shed, the breasts are often left looking flat or deflated. As part of a mommy makeover, Lubbock breast augmentation restores lost volume and provides the shape and size that women want after having children. Several types of implants are available, which means you can get the exact look to fit your goals. 

Not all women experience a loss of volume in their breasts as a result of having children. Sometimes, breasts increase in size and become burdensome for mothers. Larger breasts commonly cause pain in the neck, back, and shoulder area. Other symptoms of excessively large breasts include:

  • Poor posture
  • Headaches 
  • Skin irritation 
  • decreased ability to exercise 
  • Numbness or tingling in the hands
  • Low self-esteem
  • Shortness of breath

Mothers have enough on their plates without having to endure the discomfort caused by oversized breasts. With breast reduction, women find relief from the physical and emotional toll of their heavy chests. The procedure gets rid of excess breast tissue and skin to create a more manageable bust size so you can enjoy the freedom to move, dress, and live more comfortably.   

Stubborn Fat: Women can develop pockets of stubborn fat as they age and especially after going through their childbearing years. Diet and exercise can work wonders for some types of fat, but other areas are not as responsive to these healthy habits. The outer hips, thighs, and submental or neck region are all common areas that hold onto persistent fatty tissue. If your diet and exercise efforts are not yielding the results you want, liposuction might be the right choice for you. The procedure targets specific areas of fat that seem to stick around no matter what you do. Fat is suctioned out and the result is a smoother, leaner body contour.  

Surgical Options for Your Mommy Makeover

The combinations of procedures for your mommy makeover in Lubbock are customizable to help you reach your cosmetic goals. Dr. Rowley has over 20 years of experience performing plastic surgery, and has the aesthetic eye to give her patients beautiful results. You can add any procedure to your makeover that will help you feel like yourself again after having children. However, the most commonly requested surgeries are those that enhance the breasts and tummy area. 

Breast augmentation: Enlarging the breasts with implants is an effective way to restore volume that is lost during the childbearing years. A small incision is made, typically under the crease of the breasts, and implants are then placed either under or over the chest muscle. Patients can choose from saline, silicone gel, or structured breast implants. With the help of prescribed pain medication, discomfort during recovery is generally mild. Patients can usually return to work two to three days after surgery, and can resume full activities within four to six weeks.

Tummy tuck: This procedure is a popular choice for women planning a mommy makeover in Lubbock. A tummy tuck eliminates excess skin on the stomach area and tightens the abdominal wall. The procedure is done in the operating room under general anesthesia and takes about two hours. A horizontal incision is made on the lower abdomen; patients with more excess skin to be removed will need longer incisions. You will need to plan to take two to three weeks off work for recovery, and should wait six to eight weeks before participating in all of your normal activities. 

Liposuction: Fat removal through liposuction looks different for each patient because fat deposits vary from person to person. Whether you have many areas of stubborn fat or just one, your doctor can use this procedure to enhance your body contour. Small incisions are made, a small tube is inserted, and the fat is suctioned out. Depending on how extensive your liposuction was, your full recovery could take up to four to six weeks. However, most patients return to work after just two or three days of rest.  

Get Started Today

If you’re considering plastic surgery in Lubbock, you are in good company! Numbers are on the rise for plastic surgery nationwide, and for good reason: the procedures are safe and effective. 

If you’re ready to take the first step toward your new body, give our Lubbock office a call. Working with Dr. Rowley will give you the assurance that your mommy makeover in Lubbock will be carefully personalized to meet your long-term goals. Call our office today to schedule your no-obligation consultation.

Health Benefits of Breast Reduction in Lubbock and Other Procedures

Plastic surgery procedures are as varied as the patients who request them. Some patients want to look younger, some want their pre-baby bodies back, and still others want to fix issues they’ve struggled with their entire lives. But plastic surgery can go beyond just lifting here or tucking there. A board-certified plastic surgeon with experience can give patients a greater measure of self-confidence in their physical appearance, help with greater range of movement, and remove insecurities associated with their bodies. Additionally, there are some physical health benefits associated with some plastic surgery procedures that may be good news for women seeking a breast reduction in Lubbock. In fact, the health benefits of a breast reduction are so well-recognized among doctors that insurance companies will often pay for the procedure. Consider some of the health benefits that are a result of this plastic surgery you may not know.

Why Breast Reduction?

“Disproportionately large breasts can cause both physical and emotional distress for patients. Patients with macromastia may experience physical discomfort resulting from the weight of their breasts. The resulting pain can make it challenging for some patients to perform common physical activities. Along with the physical ailments of macromastia, some patients may suffer from emotional distress or more significant mental health problems as a result of their large breasts.”

– The American Society of Plastic Surgeons

A woman with excess breast tissue can suffer from headaches, chronic neck and back pain, and painful bra strap marks in her shoulders. Some women even experience neurologic symptoms—including numbness and tingling in the hands and arms. A breast reduction in Lubbock can relieve these chronic discomforts as it reduces the heavy weight that triggers unpleasant symptoms. 

In addition to freeing women from chronic pain, breast reduction makes it easier to participate in exercise and other life activities that are otherwise too difficult to do with larger breasts. Going for a jog is a simple way for almost anyone to improve their physical health, but it can be much more challenging for women with large breasts. Even just the thought of their burdensome chest thudding along with each step is enough to keep these women from getting the exercise they need. Physical activity is paramount to a healthy lifestyle, and large breasts should not be the reason you miss out on moving your body the way you want to.

Although they may be the most obvious, the physical ramifications of very large breasts aren’t the only ones women experience. Emotional and mental stress are common among these women. When you walk into a room and you can feel the stares directed straight at the part of your body you feel most insecure about, it can be difficult to feel confident. It is not easy to conceal a big bosom, even in the most modest outfits. If you feel like you are constantly on display because of your breast size, a breast reduction in Lubbock could help free you from that unwanted attention. Watch the video below to learn more from Dr. Jane Rowley about breast reduction.

A Breast Reduction in Lubbock Might Be Covered by Your Insurance

Any surgical procedure will have a price tag associated with it, but the cost of a breast reduction may be covered by your insurance under the right circumstances. You have two major conditions at play when trying to get your reduction costs covered: your body and your insurance type. Not all breast reductions are the same, and some situations will merit coverage when others will not. And, again, not all Lubbock insurance coverage is the same, and not all doctors and procedures are covered by every plan. Here are some tips on where to begin when sorting out your breast reduction insurance coverage questions.

Start by Contacting Your Insurance Provider Directly. 

This will give you the opportunity to get general information about whether a breast reduction is potentially covered by your insurance plan. It will also give you the opportunity to ensure your board-certified plastic surgeon of choice is within your network of coverage.

Get an Evaluation from a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon

You’ll most likely need an evaluation from a plastic surgeon to meet specific requirements established by your insurance provider to cover the breast reduction. Criteria may include:

  • An estimate that at least 500 grams (half of a pound) will be removed from each breast
  • Documentation of injury (like back pain) due to the large size of your breasts
  • Documentation that the surgery is needed in order to correct the disabling symptoms
  • Photographic documentation

Medical Necessity vs. Aesthetic Concerns 

Essentially, insurance companies are often looking for proof of the medical necessity of your breast reduction in Lubbock. They do not cover procedures that are purely cosmetic, which means you will need to supply the documentation they require to demonstrate how your surgery will benefit your health. This is not to say that the medical reasons are the only valid reasons for having the procedure. On this point, the the American Society of Plastic Surgeons has said, “Although breast reduction is often performed to address medical issues, patients who do not have the symptoms of macromastia [the medical term for excessively large breasts] but are unhappy with the size of their breasts can still pursue breast reduction as an aesthetic procedure. Patients choosing to undergo breast reduction surgery for cosmetic reasons may cite any number of factors, including social stigmas and wardrobe concerns.”

Many women desire breast reduction in Lubbock simply to balance their figure, feel more comfortable in their clothes, or to escape the unwelcome stares of strangers. These patients can certainly pursue breast reduction, but insurance will not cover the bill unless the surgery is deemed medically necessary. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons, as medical professionals, understands the difficulty women may experience in being unable to find appropriate clothing. Appropriate clothing would include effectively supportive bras, or tops that will be comfortable and attractive without gaping, pulling, or being too revealing. They also recognize that women with uncomfortably large breasts may be subject to unwanted attention or even ridicule that can be psychologically distressing. So, even if you don’t suffer from physical discomfort because of the size of your breasts, you can still seek out breast reduction.  

Patients can work with the staff at their plastic surgeon’s office to coordinate insurance billing. It’s likely the staff has experience working with a variety of insurance companies on coverage for breast reduction in Lubbock. If the procedure is deemed medically necessary after a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon, insurance may cover all or part of the surgery and the hospital costs for your procedure and recovery care. Dr. Jane Rowley has seen many happy patients after their plastic surgeries, but she has said that patients who have a breast reduction are among her most satisfied patients.

Other Procedures

If you do determine you would like a breast reduction in Lubbock, now is the time to consider whether there are any other procedures you would like to have done during the same surgery to save cost and recovery time. Having multiple procedures at the same time is often referred to as a “mommy makeover,” but it is a choice for anyone who wants to address more than one area with plastic surgery. Patients can enhance their breasts, trim their tummies, or choose from other effective procedures to achieve their ideal outcome.   

Liposuction of Hips, Buttocks, or Thighs

 Women with overly large breasts can sometimes carry excess fat in other parts of their bodies as well. No matter how faithfully you attend the gym or how well you stick to your diet, some frustrating pockets of fat can persist. Liposuction can be added to your breast reduction to help you achieve the total body look you desire. Patients seek this procedure to remove stubborn fat around their hips, abdomen, or back and enhance the contours of their body. Fat cells are permanently removed as your plastic surgeon suctions them out through a small tube called a cannula. The recovery period is different for each patient, but most people are back to work within two to three days. Complete resolution of swelling and discomfort can take up to four to six weeks. 

Just like breast reduction in Lubbock, liposuction may have added health benefits. Studies have shown that removing fat cells lowers triglycerides and benefits your heart’s health. Liposuction is not a weight loss procedure, but it can give you a sleeker silhouette by targeting specific areas of stubborn fat. The important element is to continue with a healthy diet and exercise program after liposuction to keep new fat cells from forming.

Tummy Tuck

If you have loose skin or a pooch on your stomach area, diet and exercise may not be enough to help you get rid of it. A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a procedure in which excess skin from the belly is removed and the abdominal muscles are tightened. It’s often performed to remove loose skin that remains after pregnancy (which also impacts abdominal muscles) or weight loss. After a tummy tuck, patients need to schedule some time for recovery. Most people can return to work two to three weeks after their surgery; however, a full return to normal activity will need to wait until four to six weeks after a tummy tuck.    

Similar to a breast reduction in Lubbock, this procedure is popular because it helps women get rid of stretched out skin and allows them to feel like themselves again after having children or losing drastic amounts of weight. According to RealSelf, patients rate a tummy tuck as 96 percent “worth it.” Moreover, RealSelf awarded abdominoplasty as a 2020 Most Worth It Honoree. In addition to giving patients a flatter tummy, the tightening of the abdominal muscles can improve posture and decrease back pain. Patients who suffer from a ventral hernia can also find relief through abdominoplasty. If you experience stress urinary incontinence (which is often caused by childbirth), a tummy tuck can resolve the pressure on your bladder. The surgery is not a method for weight loss, and a good candidate should be fairly close to their ideal weight. For more details and insight on abdominoplasty, watch Dr. Rowley’s video below.

Submental Liposuction 

We all want to look younger, but when we neglect the appearance of our chin and neck area, we miss a chance to really turn back the clock. Excess fat around the chin and jowls can make women look older or heavier than they actually are. Liposuction is an effective tool for targeting the fatty tissue in this region. A submental liposuction procedure is a relatively simple procedure that results in very dramatic changes in appearance by slimming down the area under the chin. It’s a very non-invasive procedure and even though only a small amount of fatty tissue is removed, the chin contour can look significantly better. Liposuction of the chin and neck region takes about 20 to 30 minutes and results in very minimal, if any, scarring. Much like a breast reduction in Lubbock, patients often appear as though they have lost weight after submental liposuction. The procedure corrects the laxity along the skin of the neck and jawline and can provide enough tightening so that the patient can avoid a facelift for several more years.

Plastic Surgery With a Woman’s Perspective 

Dr. Jane Rowley is the leading plastic surgeon in Lubbock and has over 20 years of surgical experience. She helps patients envision and achieve their cosmetic goals through thorough discussion of their options and expectations. As a woman and mother, she understands the concerns unique to women in a way other plastic surgeons may not. Dr. Rowley will discuss all of your options, whether you are interested in a breast reduction in Lubbock or any other procedure she offers. She will also take the time to answer your questions and create a plan tailored to your body and your needs. Call today to schedule a no-obligation consultation.

Considering Liposuction? Lubbock Patients Should Know These 5 Things

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, liposuction is among the most popular of plastic surgery procedures in America. Even if you eat right and exercise daily, there can be areas of your body that stubbornly hang on to fatty tissue. For getting rid of the fat that persists despite their healthy habits, many people turn to liposuction. Lubbock Dr. Jane Rowley has performed this surgery for decades, but there are some things about it that aren’t well understood by most people. If you are considering liposuction, you need to know these five surprising facts about the procedure.

1 – You Won’t Lose a Lot of Weight

Some patients, including those who are having mommy makeovers, lose weight only to feel disappointed with the results they see in the mirror. Liposuction is not meant to be a weight loss procedure. Although fat cells are removed during the liposuction surgery, the main objective is not to help you lose weight. Liposuction is used to shape targeted areas of the body that have not responded to diet and exercise. You may notice some weight loss, but most of liposuction’s impact is visible in the mirror and not on the scale. If you are considering liposuction, you should aim to be within 30 percent of your ideal body weight before you undergo the procedure. 

2 – Liposuction is Not for Obese People

If you are looking for a substitute for a healthy diet and consistent exercise, then you should consider options other than liposuction. Lubbock patients who need a quick fix for unwanted body weight will be disappointed with the results of liposuction. Suddenly losing a significant amount of weight can be dangerous for your body and general health. A natural, more gradual approach like diet and exercise will always be recommended by doctors. Liposuction is intended to target problem areas on your body for cosmetic correction and contouring. You do not need to be overweight to consider liposuction. A good candidate for the procedure is someone who is prepared to maintain their liposuction results with diet and exercise and is within 30 percent of the target body weight. The best way to determine if liposuction is right for you is to call our Lubbock office and schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Rowley.

3 – Results Aren’t Always Immediately Visible

While preparing for your procedure, it can be helpful to spend time looking at before and after pictures of others who have had liposuction. Lubbock patients will all experience different results, and it is important to remember that time may have passed in between each of those pictures. You will need to wear bandages or compression garments for days or weeks following your procedure. Results may not settle in for weeks or even months after your surgery. The best things you can do are to be patient and take proper care of your body during the healing process.

4 – Fat Can Return After Liposuction

It is true that our bodies are born with a specific number of fat cells and that we do not produce more of them during our lives; however, the fat cells that remain after liposuction can grow large enough to fill in the space left by the removed cells. Without proper diet and exercise, fat can easily expand to areas of the body previously treated by liposuction. Lubbock patients who do not maintain a healthy lifestyle may undo their liposuction results by allowing the remaining fat cells to grow uncontrolled.

5 – You May Want to Save Some of Your Unwanted Fat

Have you ever wished you could take the fat from your thighs and put it into your breasts or other volume deficient places? With liposuction, Lubbock patients with this wish can achieve their desired body contour with natural-looking results. Using fat from one area to augment another part of your body is called fat transfer, and is an option that is quickly growing in popularity. The fat removed during liposuction can be used to shape and augment your breasts or buttocks, rejuvenate and lift the face, or even enhance muscles like abs, pecs, and shoulders.

Taking the Next Step: What to Expect From Your Consultation

Once you decide that you want to move forward with the procedure, you should call your board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss how you would benefit from liposuction. Lubbock patients can expect the following things to happen during this important appointment.

  • Your doctor will evaluate the areas of your body from which you would like fat removed.
  • You may be photographed so that your surgeon can get a closer look at the areas you want to be treated.
  • Your surgeon may evaluate your skin’s elasticity and tone to determine whether you are a good candidate for the procedure.
  • Your weight will be discussed. If you are too far from your ideal weight, it’s possible that your doctor will want you to begin a weight loss program before your surgery.

Customizing Your Liposuction Results 

Liposuction is a procedure that can be tailored to meet the needs of each individual patient. Whether you want to trim your waist, get rid of a double chin, or enhance breast reduction results, liposuction can help you get the outcome you want. But, while liposuction can be used in many areas of the body, the important thing to keep in mind is how your skin will look after the fat is removed. Regions with poor skin elasticity can potentially appear saggy after liposuction. Your doctor will evaluate the condition of your skin to determine whether liposuction of a specific area will benefit you. For most patients, the following areas typically respond best to fat removal through liposuction:

  • Outer thighs
  • Hips
  • Waist
  • Flanks or love handles
  • Chin (submental region)

The abdomen, inner thighs, and areas below the knee generally do not respond as well to liposuction as the areas listed above. Some patients have excess skin hanging from their upper arms. If you would like to treat your arms with liposuction in Lubbock, talk to your doctor to determine whether your skin will be able to handle the loss of fat without appearing saggy. Watch the video below to learn more about Dr. Rowley’s views on liposuction.

Understanding Your Liposuction Procedure

If your plastic surgeon deems you to be a good candidate for liposuction, you can begin to plan for your procedure. Patients who are having smaller areas of fat treated may be able to have their liposuction performed in their plastic surgeon’s office with a local anesthetic. If you are planning to have larger or multiple areas treated, general anesthesia will be necessary. Your surgeon will make some markings on your body to give you the best results possible. 

Next, small incisions will be made in areas that are easier to conceal (such as natural skin creases) to help reduce the appearance of visible scars. A small tube called a cannula is then inserted into the skin and the fat cells are suctioned out through it. Dr. Rowley uses what is called the tumescent technique, which means that fluid is injected into the fatty areas to minimize the loss of blood. This fluid also acts as a local anesthetic to keep patients comfortable. Once the fat is suctioned out through the cannula, your plastic surgeon will close the incisions and you will be dressed in a compression garment. 

Liposuction Recovery

It can be tempting to expect immediate results after having plastic surgery. However, patients who understand that healing and recovery take time tend to be more satisfied with their outcome. After liposuction, Lubbock patients typically take two to three days off work as they experience mild to moderate pain, redness, swelling, or bruising. Medications prescribed by your doctor will ease the discomfort during the initial healing period. After the first week of recovery, most patients begin to see reduced swelling. Continue to wear your compression garments up to two to four weeks, or as instructed by your doctor.

Mommy Makeover Options

Many patients who express interest in liposuction also pursue other plastic surgeries. Liposuction pairs well with several other procedures and can be customized to fit your individual cosmetic goals. Women who have had children often have more than one area of concern they want to address with plastic surgery, so combining procedures is a helpful option for them. If you have stubborn excess fat and cosmetic issues with your breasts or abdomen, consider the following mommy makeover choices:

Breast augmentation: The loss of volume in the breasts is common among women who have been pregnant or breasted their babies. You can regain lost volume or further enhance your bust with the placement of breast implants. Breast augmentation ranks highly in patient satisfaction, and is the most popular plastic surgery for women in the U.S. Different types of breast implants are available so you can personalize your results. Whether you want silicone gel or saline, very large implants, or a subtle enhancement, your plastic surgeon can help you get the look you desire.

Breast reduction: While many women experience decreased volume in their breasts after having children, others struggle with breasts that are excessive in size. Large breasts commonly cause issues such as neck, back, and shoulder pain. Women with large breasts often find it difficult to exercise because of the weight of their chest. Finding flattering clothing and managing the emotional toll of the frequent stares of strangers can also be a challenge for these women. With a breast reduction, your plastic surgeon removes excess breast tissue and skin to create a smaller, more proportionate shape for your breasts. You can pair a breast reduction with liposuction in Lubbock to erase discomfort and enhance your appearance. 

Breast lift: All of Dr. Rowley’s breast reduction patients receive a lift as part of their procedure, but you can also opt to have a breast lift on its own. Women who have significant sagging benefit from a breast lift because it rejuvenates the shape of the bust. During the procedure, your plastic surgeon removes excess tissue and tightens the skin to create a perkier looking breast. The nipple areola complex is also lifted to a higher position. Patients sometimes add liposuction in Lubbock to get rid of fat in the upper armpit area or sides of the breasts. You may see some additional bruising or swelling if you choose this option, but your overall recovery will largely be the same as if you had had only a breast lift.   

Tummy tuck: A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is one of the top procedures for women who have had children. Belly skin that stretches with pregnancy does not usually shrink back to its previous position, especially for women who have had multiple pregnancies. With a tummy tuck, you can flatten your stomach and get rid of the loose skin that came with motherhood. Your plastic surgeon will also tighten your abdominal muscles, which are often stretched or separated during pregnancy. Patients can add liposuction to their tummy tuck procedure to get even more dramatic body contouring results.  

Maintain Your Results

Liposuction is a procedure that offers satisfying results for the vast majority of patients. It targets areas of fat that stubbornly resist even the best dedication to proper diet and exercise. The fat cells suctioned out during the procedure are gone forever, but new fat can take their place if you are not careful. Staying at a consistent healthy weight, eating a nutritious diet, getting regular exercise, and drinking enough water are the best ways to maintain your liposuction results. 

Schedule a Consultation Today

Lubbock’s most trusted and knowledgeable plastic surgeon, Dr. Jane Rowley, gives all of her patients the option to have a no-obligation consultation. During this time they can freely discuss the problem areas of their bodies and learn whether or not they are a good candidate for liposuction. Lubbock patients can have liposuction in conjunction with other procedures, and this will also be discussed at your initial visit. Although liposuction removes fat cells, it is important to maintain healthy habits and keep your weight stable after surgery if you want the results to be permanent. Contact Rowley Plastic Surgery today to find out more.