April, 2023 | Rowley Plastic Surgery Lubbock

Considering a Breast Lift? Lubbock Women Should Plan Ahead

Women have several plastic surgery options for breast enhancement. Mastopexy, or a breast lift, creates a youthful look by raising sagging breasts. The procedure gets rid of excess skin, lifts the nipple to a more forward position, and reshapes the existing tissue to give an overall more perky appearance. A breast lift can help with asymmetry and make clothing and swimwear fit more comfortably. For women who think they may be interested in a breast lift, Lubbock Dr. Jane Rowley recommends preparing for the procedure and following all pre- and post-operative instructions. She wants all of her patients to have a comfortable and smooth experience on the day of their breast lift, and getting ready beforehand is one way you can make sure that happens.

Preparing for Your Breast Lift

At your preoperative doctor visit, you will discuss your medical history, previous surgeries, and any medications or supplements you take. You will have a physical exam of your breasts so the doctor can determine your skin tone, positioning of your nipples, and other details for your breast lift. Lubbock patients should communicate clearly with their doctor about their surgical expectations and why they want a breast lift. It is always important to consult with your doctor before any procedure so you can understand exactly what the procedure can or cannot do and what the expected recovery will be. You may be asked to have a mammogram done before your surgery to establish a baseline for tracking changes in your breast tissue. To better understand what to expect from your breast lift, watch the video below.

Preparing for Your Surgery

Not only will preparing for your surgery help ease your mind as the day approaches, the right preparations can also have a positive impact on your recovery. You will need to follow any pre-surgical instructions from the doctor carefully. As the patient, you play an active role in your successful recovery; your surgeon will not force you to make the proper preparations. It is up to you to follow the instructions you are given so you have the best chance at a safe, successful surgery. Here are a few things your doctor may advise you to do as you get ready for your procedure.

Stop Taking Supplements

Many people take vitamins and supplements regularly to improve their health and well being. While this is normally beneficial to your health, it may not be a practice that you should continue during your plastic surgery journey. It is important to let your doctor know about anything you take because some supplements and medications can negatively affect your surgery. Be sure to avoid any anti-inflammatory drugs or herbal supplements as they can increase your risk of bleeding.

Quit Smoking

If you use nicotine in any form, you will need to stop for several weeks before and after your surgery. Even though you may have been able to continue smoking when you went through a different surgical procedure in the past, the rules are different for plastic surgery patients. Nicotine can affect your healing by decreasing blood flow to the skin.

What to Bring

You will be told what things you will need to bring and what type of clothes to wear after your breast lift. Lubbock patients may be advised to bring prescribed medications with them to the surgery center. You will also need to bring identification and your hospital payment, if you have not paid in advance. Be sure not to wear any jewelry, makeup, or lotions on your surgery day.

Your Ride Home

You will not be permitted to leave the surgery center by yourself if you have been under anesthesia, so be sure you have a ride home. You will want to make arrangements for someone to help you after your procedure as well. Ask a family member or trusted friend to stay with you for the first day or two, as you will need to spend that time resting and may need some help caring for yourself.

The First Few Weeks

For the first two to three weeks following their breast lift, Lubbock patients can usually expect to bruise, swell, and have some postoperative pain. Incisions can feel sore and you may experience numbness in your nipples. All of these symptoms are normal, but they will vary from patient to patient as pain tolerance and recovery times differ for each individual. If pain management is difficult or you have any concerns about your recovery, contact your doctor.

During the first few weeks after your surgery, it is critical to give your body the opportunity to heal from surgery for the best results of your breast lift. Lubbock patients should ease gently back into parts of their normal routine as they start to feel better. Some things you can do to help your recovery be successful include:

Wearing a compression bra for the recommended amount of time
Staying elevated at a 25 to 45-degree angle, even when sleeping
Avoid sleeping on your stomach
Avoid any activity that involves lifting, bending, or straining

The First Few Months

It may take a month or two before all swelling is gone and you start to see the final results of your breast lift. Lubbock is full of fun things to do, but be patient with your body and you should be able to resume normal activity 4 to 6 weeks after your surgery. It’s important not to overestimate how good you are feeling too soon after your surgery and jump back into your daily routine too quickly. Remember that your body needs time to heal properly, so give yourself permission to slow down and take it easy. Numbness in nipples is usually gone in the first couple of months after surgery.

Scar Healing

With a procedure like mastopexy, many patients are concerned with the amount of scarring they will see. Several incisions are necessary during a breast lift to achieve the desired outcome, so the procedure naturally results in more scarring than some other cosmetic surgeries. Patients with less sagging in their breasts may only need one incision around the areola. Others with more sagging will need a vertical incision from the areola to the bottom of the breast, and possibly a third along the breast crease. The good news is, these scars are well hidden under swimwear and usually fade well with time. Here are some things you can try to help minimize your visible scarring after having a breast lift in Lubbock.

No tension: Be gentle with your wound sites, especially during the initial healing stages. Pulling or stretching the incision sites can worsen the scar and cause unnecessary pain. Avoid activities that put tension on the scar, such as heavy lifting or strenuous exercise.
Massage: When your doctor gives you the green light, you may be able to begin scar massage. Gently press your fingertips on the scar and move them in a circular motion. Start with light pressure and gradually apply more as you feel comfortable. You may prefer to use a lotion or cream during your scar massage. For this technique to be beneficial, perform scar massage multiple times a day, for five to ten minutes each time. Scar massage minimizes a scar’s visibility by boosting the production of collagen and making the scar more flexible and soft.
Sun protection: It is always smart to shield your skin from the sun, but it is even more important after plastic surgery. The sun’s harmful rays can make scars appear darker. It is highly recommended to wear a full-spectrum sunscreen on the incision area to protect it from the sun.
Keep it moist: Moisturizing a scar is a good way to keep it from becoming overly hard. Some patients see positive results with the use of vitamin E oil, as it may help with inflammation and skin hydration. Be sure to test the oil on a small area of your skin first, because it can cause skin irritation in some people. If vitamin E does not work for you, try another moisturizing product like Aquaphor or Vaseline.
Scar healing products: There are many products on the market that claim to promote scar healing. While there is no magic ointment that will completely erase scars from a breast lift in Lubbock, some of them may work to help scars heal and fade. Silicone sheeting is a popular choice for patients and has been known to reduce scar visibility. You can purchase silicone sheeting at your local drugstore. After wearing the strips consistently for a few months, you may be able to see positive results.
Proper nutrition: Adequate water intake, healthy eating, and regular exercise can go a long way toward healing plastic surgery scars. Fueling your body with foods rich in vitamins can help build and repair body tissues and keep the immune system healthy. Aim for 5 to 6 small meals and 64 ounces of water a day. Although sweets may be tempting, try to limit your sugar intake. Instead, curb your sweet tooth by enjoying plenty of seasonal fruits.

Combining Procedures for Dramatic Enhancements

What if your breasts are not the only area that you would like to improve? Tummies and other body parts can cause dissatisfaction in your appearance just like a sagging bust. If you have another area or two you would like to address with plastic surgery, you may want to consider combining procedures. Some patients may wish to have a breast lift with liposuction or tummy tuck for what is commonly called a “mommy makeover”. Here are a few options to think about when planning a mommy makeover.

Breast implants: You can choose to get breast implants with a breast lift. Lubbock women who want both procedures should consult with their doctor about their expectations for the final outcome. If you select an implant size that is too large, your lifted breasts may not be able to support its weight and still maintain their perky appearance. However, an experienced plastic surgeon such as Dr. Rowley can help you choose a size that will complement your breast lift beautifully.
Breast reduction: If you feel your breasts are too big, or if they cause you physical discomfort, you can have a breast reduction with your lift. Back, neck, and shoulder pain are common among women with large breasts, and plastic surgery is the most effective way to address their symptoms. While a breast lift corrects sagging of the breasts, a reduction reduces their size. Together, the procedures can give you a smaller, perkier, more proportionate breast size to fit your lifestyle.
Tummy tuck: Loose belly skin is a common problem for women who have had children or lost a significant amount of weight. Even when you reach your final goal weight, the excess skin can still cause cosmetic issues. A tummy tuck removes the excess skin and tightens the abdominal muscles to create a smoother, flatter midsection.
Liposuction: When combining liposuction with a breast lift, Lubbock patients can achieve more dramatic results. For example, if you have areas of stubborn fat that persist despite proper diet and exercise, liposuction can help. The outer thighs, hips, and chin (submental) region all typically respond well to liposuction.

It is important to remember that patients who combine procedures may require a little longer time for recovery. However, a mommy makeover can be a great way to save time and expenses on your plastic surgery experience. If you are interested in enhancing more than one area of your body, discuss with your doctor which options are best for you.

Putting Our Patients First

Dr. Jane Rowley is a board-certified plastic surgeon with more than 20 years of experience helping her patients achieve their aesthetic goals. She takes the time to discuss your goals thoroughly, to explain the procedure, and give a clear expectation of what is involved with your expected recovery. At Rowley Plastic Surgery, we put our patients’ needs first and make their care and comfort our highest priority. Schedule your no-obligation consultation for your breast lift in Lubbock today.

What You Need to Know About a Tummy Tuck in Lubbock

There is no substitute for feeling great about the way you look. It’s human nature to want to look your best, and more often than not, it’s not about vanity. It’s about confidence. When you feel confident about your outward appearance, it has positive effects on your inner self. As we age or experience pregnancies or weight loss, our bodies are changed in permanent ways. Healthy habits are important, but there’s a limit to their effect on our outward appearance. Sometimes, things like flabby excess skin will not go away no matter how much you diet or exercise. If you feel frustrated when your best efforts don’t yield the results you want, it might be time to consider a tummy tuck in Lubbock.

What is a Tummy Tuck?

When you carry around an extra load of saggy skin, it can affect your self-esteem as you become increasingly unhappy about the contour of your body. A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, isn’t a weight loss surgery but, rather, a procedure to remove excess skin and improve your quality of life. It is a great support to your weight loss goals and healthy habits. A tummy tuck is a surgical procedure for removing up to ten pounds of skin from the abdominal area. Weakened and separated abdominal muscles are tightened and repaired during surgery as well. The procedure provides patients with a smoother, firmer abdomen.

Tummy tucks are also often paired with liposuction to further enhance the contouring effects. Abdominoplasty is not a procedure for people who want to lose a significant amount of weight. If you are considerably overweight, your doctor may recommend you get closer to your goal weight before you move forward with a tummy tuck.

A tummy tuck in Lubbock removes unwanted skin and some fat tissue, but many patients do not realize that the benefits go even further. Dr. Jane Rowley shares her thoughts on the surgery:

“This is actually a more significant procedure than most people understand. The media often portrays this as a ‘skin surgery,’ but this is a surgery that actually involves the entire core of your body, with tightening of the abdominal muscles and tightening of the skin. The results can be exceptional on the right patient. Although weight loss might not be significant with this procedure, contouring and tightening of the abdominal wall is significant.”

When Exercise Doesn’t Cut it

The abdomen is a common area of complaint for many people. After having children or losing a large amount of weight, loose skin and fat can remain, giving the stomach area a saggy or bloated appearance. This can be a frustrating experience for people who try to tone their midsection on their own because loose skin does not respond to traditional methods. Exercises such as sit ups, crunches, and planking are all great ways to strengthen your core, but they don’t always produce the cosmetic results you may want. A tummy tuck is the most effective way to get rid of the excess skin and fat that can cause a belly pooch. Of course, you’ll still need to eat right and stay active even after a tummy tuck, but once that flabby skin is gone it will be much easier to see your healthy habits pay off in the mirror.

How to Know If You’re a Candidate for a Tummy Tuck in Lubbock

Many people are unhappy with the way their belly looks, but that doesn’t mean abdominoplasty is right for everyone. If you haven’t tried adjusting your diet or exercise routine to target your midsection, your doctor may advise you to do that first. People looking for drastic weight loss should also consider other means to achieve their goals. But, if you are close to your ideal size and are still unhappy with the appearance of your stomach, a tummy tuck might be right for you. Here are some other signs that you may be ready for the procedure:

You are bothered by loose or hanging skin around your abdomen
You do not use nicotine (or can stop for several weeks before and after your surgery)
You have realistic expectations for the outcome of your tummy tuck
You are in good health, generally speaking
You are committed to maintaining a healthy, stable weight
You are finished having children

Many other factors will also weigh in your decision to have plastic surgery. Your surgeon will evaluate your areas of concern to determine whether a tummy tuck is the right procedure for you. If the excess skin on your stomach is limited to the area beneath your belly button, then your doctor may recommend a mini tummy tuck in Lubbock. This procedure is not as invasive as traditional abdominoplasty, because it targets only the lower abdomen. A full tummy tuck, on the other hand, is necessary for patients with excess skin both above and below the navel. With the guidance of a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon, you can customize your procedure to ensure you get the results you want.

Dr. Rowley has more than 20 years of experience performing tummy tucks for very satisfied patients. For more information on what to expect from your abdominoplasty experience with her, watch the video below.

Things to Consider Before Your Surgery

Most patients have thought long and hard about the decision to have abdominoplasty. Months or years of dealing with stubborn belly flab can make plastic surgery seem like a simple answer. However, a tummy tuck is a major surgery and should be considered carefully with plenty of education and counsel from Dr. Jane Rowley. During your preliminary evaluation with Dr. Rowley, she will prepare you for what to expect, and ensure your health and body are right for a tummy tuck in Lubbock. You should arrive at your consultation prepared to discuss the following topics:

Your weight: Tummy tucks don’t require a certain number on the scale, but you should be close to your goal weight. It is important that you are able to maintain a stable weight to keep your surgical results intact.
Your eating habits: A nutritious and sustainable diet is essential for a healthy recovery and lasting results.
Whether you smoke: If you do, consider quitting or make a plan to stop for a while because nicotine can interfere with the healing process and increase your risk for complications. Expect to refrain from smoking, nicotine patches, and nicotine gum for several weeks before and after the surgery.

What Happens During a Tummy Tuck?

Even though you will be in a deep sleep during your procedure, it is helpful to understand how a tummy tuck works. Surgery is performed with the use of general anesthetics. A standard tummy tuck in Lubbock begins with a horizontal incision running between the hip bones. The plastic surgeon lifts the skin and tightens the abdominal muscles underneath. The extra skin is removed and the navel is repositioned to match the new shape of your tummy. Surgery is wrapped up with the closure of incisions.

Tummy tucks can address varying degrees of hanging skin; some people’s excess skin is only beneath the belly button and others have flab that extends all the way around their back. Depending on how extensive your surgery is, it can take anywhere from one to five hours. Nurses will monitor your condition and pain level in a recovery room. You will need a driver to take you home.

Planning for Recovery

Immediately following your tummy tuck in Lubbock, you will need to get plenty of rest. You should not spend your first night alone, Make sure you have someone to help care for you throughout the night. Your incision will be stitched and bandaged. It is important that you follow Dr. Rowley’s specific care instructions to ensure a healthy recovery. Your activity will be limited during this time, but it is important to try to start moving early on. Plan on wearing loose-fitting, comfortable clothing. Make sure your phone is in reach if you need it. A hand-held showerhead and bathroom chair are ideal.

Plan for several weeks of recovery, and take off plenty of time from work for an uninterrupted recovery time (at least two to three weeks). Too much activity following the surgery before you are completely healed can complicate your recovery. Give your body the time it needs to rest and heal. Most patients make a complete return to their normal activities six to eight weeks after having a tummy tuck.

Look and Feel Better With a Tummy Tuck in Lubbock

Patients who have lost significant amounts of weight can feel happy about the weight loss but discouraged about the saggy stomach skin that is left behind. Getting rid of that extra skin gives your body the flatter tummy you had hoped to have after your weight loss. The cosmetic benefits of abdominoplasty are dramatic, but did you know the procedure can also improve your health? The procedure is about more than just flattening your belly—it’s a surgery for repair and healing.

Back Pain Relief

Back pain doesn’t have to be something you accept and live with forever. A tummy tuck may help by strengthening your body’s core. Stronger core muscles help improve posture, which means less chronic back pain.

Ventral Hernia Repair

Extreme weight loss or c-section surgeries can lead to a lapse in muscle control that can lead to hernias. A tummy tuck in Lubbock can also repair or prevent ventral hernias by reducing the amount of stress on the abdominal muscles.

Combining Procedures

Getting older, having children, and weight changes will affect more than just the abdominal area. For example, it is common for patients who are bothered by the appearance of their stomach to also be unhappy with the way their breasts look. If you have multiple areas that you would like to address with cosmetic surgery, you can consider combining procedures to get the total body look you want. Although it is commonly called a “mommy makeover”, having more than one plastic surgery at once is not just for moms. Most healthy tummy tuck candidates can opt to combine their procedure with any of the following.

Breast Augmentation: As tummies often expand with age, some women’s breasts tend to shrink. Breast augmentation can give you back the volume you lost (or never had in the first place). It can solve problems with asymmetry and restore confidence in women who desire more fullness in their breasts. Breast implants come in a variety of sizes and materials, so you can get the exact look you want to go along with your tummy tuck in Lubbock.

Breast Reduction: If you have naturally large breasts that make everyday activities a challenge, breast reduction can help. Reducing the size of your breasts provides relief from chronic neck, back, and shoulder pain. Your surgeon will remove excess skin and fat from your breasts to give you a smaller, more proportionate chest.

Liposuction: Patients commonly pair abdominoplasty with liposuction to get enhanced results from their surgery. Liposuction gets rid of the stubborn pockets of fat that remain despite healthy efforts to diet and exercise. When performed by a skilled plastic surgeon, the two procedures produce exquisite body contouring results.

The Gift of Confidence

Excess belly skin can be an emotional and physical annoyance that can damage self-confidence. As this summer season approaches, give yourself the gift of confidence as you move forward in your health, wellness, and appearance efforts. Dr. Jane Rowley is the leading plastic surgeon in Lubbock who carefully discusses the options that best match the cosmetic goals of her patients. Meet with Dr. Rowley to learn about options for your tummy tuck in Lubbock that are right for your needs. At Rowley Plastic Surgery, you can feel confident knowing you are in good hands. Contact our office today for a no-obligation consultation.

Small Changes Equal Big Results With Plastic Surgery for Eyelids in Lubbock

When most people think of plastic surgery, they don’t usually picture treatments involving the eye area. Breast and tummy procedures consistently top the charts as the most popular surgeries year after year, but they aren’t the only ones that can drastically improve your confidence. Just like many other cosmetic changes, eyelid surgery can have a dramatic effect on the way you look and feel. Signs of aging can make an early appearance around the eyes, as the skin in that area is thin and more susceptible to wrinkles than other parts of the face. Your eyes should show who you are; not with lines, bags, or wrinkles, but with brightness and clarity. With plastic surgery for the eyelids, Lubbock women can turn the visible signs of aging into a fresher, more youthful look.

What is Blepharoplasty?

Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, can be performed on both the upper and lower eyelids. You can elect to have the surgery for either functional or cosmetic reasons. The surgery is done on an outpatient basis often using local anesthetics with sedation.

Plastic surgery for eyelids in Lubbock is often referred to as an “eyelid lift,” however, this term is not entirely accurate. A small incision allows for the removal of skin or changing the amount of fat around the eye. This can be combined with a laser resurfacing of the eyelid skin, which reduces existing lines and wrinkles. Even small changes can have dramatic results around the eyelid.

How is it Done?

The small incision is often made to the top of the eyelid where excess skin and fat are removed. The skin is then brought together with small stitches. This helps recreate the crease at the top of the lid. This procedure can also be performed with an incision at the bottom of the eyelid, just below the lash line, or on the inside of the eyelid. The placement of the incision on the inside of the lid, called a transconjunctival approach, allows for an invisible incision after healing. This method makes possible the removal or addition of fat to the eyelid without impacting the fold or look of the eyelid. For a better understanding of which surgical approach would be best for you, visit with Dr. Jane Rowley for a personal consultation with the information and counsel you need to make the best choice for you.

Why Experience Matters

Your plastic surgeon’s level of experience matters no matter which procedure you’re having, but when it comes to blepharoplasty, this knowledge and skill is of the utmost importance. No one wants to have to revise their surgical results, and choosing a well-qualified plastic surgeon can help to minimize that risk.

Upper Eyelids

If you have excess skin in your upper eyelids, blepharoplasty can dramatically improve your appearance with a minimal recovery period. It is important that the plastic surgeon does not take too much skin off the eyelids, because this mistake can cause serious complications. Some less experienced surgeons will err on the side of caution and not remove enough skin to provide a satisfying cosmetic result. An experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. Rowley will be able to give you the brighter, younger looking eyes you want without having to worry about these types of complications. For more information on what to expect from an upper eyelid lift, watch the video below.

Lower Eyelids

The lower eye area is even more complicated to treat than the upper eyes. The procedure is approached differently for each patient, because of variables such as skin quality, the shape of the face, cheekbone placement, and the amount of existing loose skin on the eyelid. Dr. Rowley’s extensive training and experience enables her to assess each patient’s needs and plan their procedure accordingly. She offers transconjunctival lower eyelid blepharoplasty with laser resurfacing to achieve the most satisfying cosmetic improvement. View the video below to learn more about Dr. Rowley’s thoughts on lower eyelid cosmetic surgery.

Why Have Eyelid Surgery?

Your eyes are perhaps the most important feature on your face. They convey your emotions, give brightness to your expressions, and allow you to view the world around you. They also are one of the first facial areas to show the signs of aging. When this happens, your aging eyes can make you appear tired, old, or moody. No matter how many internet makeup videos you watch, you can’t get rid of sagging eyelids or puffy under eye bags. Plastic surgery for the eyelids in Lubbock is the most effective way to permanently lift, brighten, and rejuvenate your eye area so you can look and feel your best.

An excess of skin or fat around the eye can make the eyelid heavy or puffy. This slightly extra visual weight around the eyes can age the look of your face and can even block the upper field of your vision. Removing skin and fat or adding fat can reshape the look of the eye. A tightening of the eyelid skin can correct sagginess. And both this contouring effort and tightening can be paired with the laser skin resurfacing to reduce wrinkles and smooth skin texture.

Other Blepharoplasty Benefits

Improved Vision – Apart from cosmetic results, improved eyesight may be reason enough to pursue plastic surgery for eyelids in Lubbock. Significant drooping of the upper eyelid can impair vision. A slight lift of the brow and upper lid can remove the extra skin, which causes the droop. Not only can this improve your line of sight, but some patients find that this correction relieves a strain in the brow muscles from constantly trying to raise the upper lid.

Reduced Bags and Lines – By lifting the upper and lower lids, common signs of aging are corrected. Fine lines and bags around the eyes give a fatigued look even when you are well rested. To enhance the results of plastic surgery for eyelids, Lubbock patients can also include skin rejuvenation treatments such as a chemical skin peel or medical facial to provide additional smoothing or to reduce the visibility of dark circles.
Headache Relief – Do you suffer from chronic migraines? An eyelid lift may be able to provide some relief. A 2017 study found that, after blepharoplasty, headache symptoms improved in 25 of the 28 research participants. Another study found the procedure to have a high success rate in certain patients when headache-triggering nerves were decompressed during the eyelid surgery. Ninety percent of those participants experienced significant relief after undergoing the procedure.

Recovering from Plastic Surgery for the Eyelids in Lubbock

Unlike other more involved surgeries, blepharoplasty can have a relatively short recovery time. The day after the surgery you will typically experience some bruising and swelling around the eyes, but these will reduce quickly, particularly if you regularly apply cool compresses to the eyes during the first 48 hours. You should be able to resume normal activity after ten days and experience a full recovery after two weeks with the majority of the bruising and swelling gone by then.

Combining Blepharoplasty with Other Procedures

Early signs of aging don’t just appear around the eyes. It is likely that if you have wrinkles or bags in the eye area, you may also experience sagging skin elsewhere. The face, neck area, jawline, and even the breasts are common concerns for patients who notice gravity and aging taking their tolls. An eyelid lift can produce stunning results on its own, but when patients combine their enhanced eyes with other procedures, the effects are even more dramatic. Here are some popular plastic surgery options that patients can add to their wish list for a younger looking appearance:

Facelift

Different procedures are used to target specific areas of your appearance. For example, while plastic surgery for the eyelids in Lubbock rejuvenates the upper and lower eyelid area, a facelift corrects issues in the cheeks, mouth area, and jawline. During the facelift procedure, your plastic surgeon will work to elevate and tighten the facial skin through small incisions above the ears in the hairline. Superficial muscles are also tightened to achieve long lasting results. With more than 20 years of facelift experience, Dr. Rowley has the skill and artistry to provide patients with a beautiful, natural outcome.

Liposuction

In certain instances, excess fat on the face and neck can make women appear older or heavier than they really are. A fleshy neck or double chin is almost impossible to get rid of without the help of plastic surgery. Submental liposuction, or liposuction of the chin and neck area, eliminates excess fat on the neck to create a thinner, more elongated appearance. The procedure is relatively simple and can be done on most patients with a local anesthetic in the office examination room. Your plastic surgeon will inject the anesthetic, make a small incision, insert a cannula, and suction out excess fat. The whole procedure can be done during your lunch hour, but it yields dramatic results, especially when combined with plastic surgery for the eyelids in Lubbock.

Non-surgical Alternatives

Some patients can achieve their desired results with minimally invasive or non-surgical cosmetic options. Treatments such as laser skin resurfacing, non-invasive body contouring, chemical peels, and fillers are popular among women who wish to fight the signs of aging. In 2019 alone, 16.3 million cosmetic minimally-invasive procedures were performed on patients in the U.S. With little to no downtime required and a wide variety of treatments from which to choose, many women are opting for non-surgical methods to rejuvenate and enhance their appearance. Dr. Rowley can help you plan your combination of procedures should you choose to include any minimally invasive options with your Lubbock blepharoplasty.

Choosing the Right Plastic Surgeon

Plastic surgery for the eyelids in Lubbock is not something that should be bargain shopped. While saving some money on a cosmetic procedure might sound tempting, it is generally not worth the savings when your health, safety, and appearance are on the line. The first thing you should do when searching for a plastic surgeon is to only consider those who are board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). Any physician can legally perform cosmetic procedures, so you want to make sure the doctor you choose has been specifically trained in the field of plastic surgery.

ABPS board-certified plastic surgeons undergo rigorous training and examinations to earn their certification. They are required to complete an additional five years of surgical training upon their completion of medical school. A board-certified plastic surgeon must also complete a plastic surgery residency. In addition, they participate in ongoing education to keep current in their field throughout their careers. All of this training, testing, and experience gives these surgeons the skill and aesthetic talent to give patients the absolute best results possible. ABPS board certification is voluntary, so when a surgeon goes above and beyond to achieve the honor, it shows just how committed they are to providing the highest level of care. For more information on the importance of selecting a board-certified plastic surgeon, watch the video below.

Take the Next Step Toward Brighter Eyes

You don’t have to look tired, moody, or older than your age because of excess skin or under eye bags. When it comes to plastic surgery for the eyelids, Lubbock patients can enjoy both functional and cosmetic improvements along with an overall refreshed appearance. Blepharoplasty can give your entire face a younger, healthier look. This procedure enhances and brightens the shape and appearance of your eyes, which can have a noticeable impact on your image as a whole. And, when you feel better about the way you look, it has a positive effect on your everyday self-confidence. Dr. Jane Rowley has more than 20 years of experience performing eyelid surgery and she always carefully consults with her patients to create the best surgical plan for them. Schedule your no-obligation consultation visit today and discover your cosmetic possibilities.

Breast Augmentation Without the Compromises

Women deal with stress every day. Whether it comes from your responsibilities in the workplace or the demands of family life, stress seems to be almost unavoidable. However, there is no reason that it needs to be associated with plastic surgery. It is normal for cosmetic procedures such as breast surgery, a tummy tuck, or liposuction to contribute to anxiety in some patients. Proactively working towards your cosmetic goals should make you feel excited and optimistic, but many women end up feeling nervous instead. You can put a stop to the anxiety about a breast augmentation before it even begins. Do your best to educate yourself—understanding your options for breast implants will put you in the right direction towards calming your nerves.

Consider Your Implants

If you are concerned about a lack of breast tissue, breast symmetry, or want to return to your pre-pregnancy breast volume, you should research the different breast implant options available. With research and technological advances, breast implants are safer than ever. The FDA strictly regulates all breast implants to ensure they are safe medical devices for patient use. There is no right or wrong choice when it comes to which type of implant you choose, but there are certain drawbacks to both saline implants and silicone gel implants that are important to consider.

Saline Implants – Saline implants are FDA-approved for breast augmentation in women 18 and older. These implants are similar to a water balloon filled with sterile salt water. They provide a firm, uniform shape, and if they leak, you have no need to worry about adverse effects on your body. Saline implants can tend to wrinkle, and some people believe they do not closely resemble the feel of natural breast tissue.

Silicone Gel Implants – Silicone gel breast implants are FDA-approved for cosmetic and reconstructive breast surgery in women 22 and older. A silicone gel-filled implant looks and feels more like natural breast tissue because the silicone gel is more viscous than saline. These implants are the most popular choice for women in America because of their realistic appearance. However, because of the risk of silent rupture, women should be aware of the need for periodic MRIs or ultrasounds to check for implant leaks in the future.

Talk It Out

When you feel comfortable with your choice of implant, there may still be other factors contributing to your anxiety. Thinking of your post surgery pain and recovery can also cause concern. If you can, speak with a friend who has already had breast augmentation. First-hand accounts of what to expect with your surgery will give you more information and ideas about what to discuss with your doctor. Next, talk to your doctor and share your concerns so that your surgeon can explain your expected recovery, pain, and the final results from your surgery. Sometimes what we fear the most is the unknown, so doing your due diligence will help to ease your mind.

Consider the Results

Remembering your reasons for wanting plastic surgery can also help calm your nerves. What motivated you to pursue breast augmentation in the first place? Whether you think your breasts are too small, asymmetrical, or disproportionate, it all comes down to having the desire to like the way you look. Feeling satisfied with your appearance can do wonders for your self-confidence. Visualize yourself with the results you hope to see after your procedure. If adding volume to your breasts is something that would help improve the way you see and feel about yourself, it is well worth the surgery and recovery to achieve your cosmetic goals.

Once you have a vision of the look you want, do your best to communicate it clearly to your plastic surgeon. Simply telling your doctor you want a natural look may not be the best way to convey your goals. A better way to describe your desired outcome is to bring photos of breast enhancement patients whose results you like. Be sure to choose photos of women who closely resemble your own body type. Some surgeons ask patients to bring a bra that fits their ideal breast size to their consultation appointment. Do some thinking about how you want to look and feel after your procedure, and be ready to discuss it thoroughly with your plastic surgeon.

Breast Augmentation Recovery Timeline

Knowing what to expect after your surgery can help you feel relaxed as you prepare for the big day. You will also be able to better determine which situations might warrant a call to your doctor. Every woman’s healing process is different, but in general, you can anticipate the following stages after your breast enhancement procedure.

Immediately After Surgery: Breast augmentation is performed with the use of general anesthesia in most cases, so afterwards you will wake in a recovery room. You may feel tired, but pain should be minimal. If you experience side effects from the anesthesia, your nurses will work to control any discomfort. Most patients are able to go home after about an hour in recovery.
The First Few Days: Your surgeon will likely schedule a post-operative office visit for one of the days immediately following your procedure. It is essential to follow all of your doctor’s instructions, from taking your prescriptions to refraining from strenuous activity. The first three to five days of breast enlargement recovery are when women feel the most discomfort. Soreness, swelling, and tightness are common during this time, so don’t be afraid to use the pain medication your doctor prescribes.
One Week: One week after your breast augmentation, your discomfort should be minimal and easily managed with over-the-counter pain medications. You should continue sleeping on your back for at least the first several weeks. Most patients will have returned to work by this time, as long as no strenuous activity or heavy lifting is required. You should feel better each day, but if you notice anything concerning (such as severe pain), do not hesitate to contact your surgeon.
The Next Few Weeks: You will continue to visit your plastic surgeon’s office to have your results monitored. Swelling and soreness may persist during the first four to six weeks of recovery. Many doctors clear their patients for light exercise that does not involve the upper body or cause excessive movement of the breasts. Your breasts may continue to appear high and tight during the first few weeks of your recovery, but should gradually drop and soften over the next several weeks. It is also not uncommon for one breast to drop and appear lower than the other temporarily. This should resolve within a few months as your body continues to heal.
Three Months Post-Op: By six-to-eight weeks, breast augmentation patients are typically considered healed and are cleared for a full return to their normal activities. However, the breasts will continue to settle over the next six months to one year. Additionally, mild swelling can last up to several months. Scars will also fade gradually over this time period, assuming patients care for them properly.

The most important piece of advice you can apply to your breast enlargement journey is to strictly follow your plastic surgeon’s instructions. Doing so will help you avoid complications, heal more quickly, and get the best results possible. It is also essential to not rush too quickly back into your normal routine. If you are tempted to do things like vacuum your house or pick up a heavy bag of groceries, stop and ask yourself whether it is worth a potential setback to your recovery. Let someone else help you with chores and other demanding tasks – you won’t regret it.

Benefits of Breast Enhancement

With so many factors that can affect the way breasts look, it’s no wonder breast augmentation is the most popular plastic surgery procedure in America. Pregnancy, breastfeeding, aging, weight loss, and heredity all contribute to unwanted changes in breast appearance. With a deflated or disproportionate looking bust, it can be hard to find flattering clothing and swimwear. Adding volume to your chest with implants is an effective way to enhance your appearance and increase your confidence. Having plastic surgery is about making physical changes to achieve your personal cosmetic goals. If you feel pressured to have a procedure or are doing it to please someone else, you should rethink your decision. However, when done for the right reasons, breast enhancement can be a healthy way to boost self-esteem.

Consider Your Doctor

Getting ready for breast enlargement is exciting, but don’t rush through your selection process when it comes to finding a plastic surgeon. A well-qualified, experienced surgeon can make all the difference in not only your results, but in your health, safety, and comfort as well. Friends’ recommendations and online reviews can be a helpful starting point, but your research should go further to ensure you are getting the best level of care. Here are some of the steps breast augmentation patients should take to find the right doctor:

Check for license suspension or revocation on your state’s Board of Medicine website.
Make sure your surgeon is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
Review your doctor’s before and after photo gallery
Ask about the amount of experience your surgeon has with your procedure.
Go with your instincts – even if a surgeon looks good on paper, it is ok to walk away if you feel uncomfortable at any point.
Evaluate the quality of your plastic surgeon’s office staff. Are they prompt and helpful?

You have heard about the importance of choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon, but do you know why It’s so important? A board-certified plastic surgeon has graduated from medical school, completed years of surgical training, completed additional training for plastic surgery, and passed both oral and written exams. These surgeons are required to operate in an accredited facility. An experienced and certified doctor is the foundation to having the best possible experience with your plastic surgery. Having confidence in your plastic surgeon’s training, certification, and experience goes a long way in easing anxiety about your breast augmentation. To learn more about why you should choose a board-certified plastic surgeon, watch the video below.

Breast Enlargement Experience You Can Trust

Plastic surgery doesn’t need to cause fear or anxiety. When you understand your options for breast implants in Lubbock, it gives you the freedom to look forward to and enjoy your breast enhancement. Dr. Jane Rowley has more than 20 years of experience performing breast augmentation. She will explain your procedure and recovery expectations thoroughly, giving you clear information about your surgery and what to expect. You can put your mind at ease knowing that at Rowley Plastic Surgery, you are in the best possible care. Call today to schedule your no-obligation