Tag Archive for: plastic surgery

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.

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.

How Plastic Surgery in Lubbock Can Rejuvenate Your Appearance

For most people, caring about the way they look is not a result of vanity. Concern for your appearance often comes from a place of healthy self-love. During our younger years, enjoying the way we look doesn’t require too much effort. However, as we begin to age, it can take a little more work to feel that confidence in your physical appearance. Makeup won’t conceal sagging skin, under-eye bags, or excess fat around the jawline. When these issues start to wear on your satisfaction with your appearance, plastic surgery in Lubbock may be the right solution for you. At Rowley Plastic Surgery, we offer procedures that can help boost your confidence. When you are happy with the way you look, you can feel more positivity in other areas of your life. Here’s a look at some of the plastic surgery options that can help you achieve your cosmetic goals.   

Facelift Benefits

Your identity as an individual begins with your face. It’s the first thing people remember about you and it’s what they associate with your name after first meeting you. The effects of the aging process will eventually catch up to each of us as we begin to see a worn out or tired appearance take over. The wrinkles and lines do not reflect the person we are inside or the way we feel about ourselves, but they can take a toll on our confidence levels. 

While there are many benefits of a facelift, the advantages go far beyond restoring your natural youthful look. This plastic surgery in Lubbock allows your personality and confidence to radiate from your face as you enjoy the years to come. A facelift rejuvenates your appearance by targeting different problems in several different areas.

Repair Loose Skin  

Over time, your skin and muscles lose their youthful elasticity and tone. Combined with the effects of gravity and genetics, the skin can take on a saggy appearance that can make you look old and tired. Aging causes the elasticity in the skin to relax leading to that saggy-skin appearance we see over time. During your facelift your surgeon will carefully trim and tighten the skin on your face to restore the youthful and natural look you desire. Dr. Jane Rowley has the surgical expertise and artistry to lift the face in a natural way without overly pulling or tightening the skin. For more Dr. Rowley’s thoughts on facelifts, watch the video below.

Tighten Facial Muscles 

Tightening the skin and the superficial muscle layer under the skin helps to restore a younger-looking appearance. The superficial musculo-aponeurotic system (SMAS), or the underlying structures of your face, will also loosen and sag due to weakness from aging. While trimming and lifting skin during your plastic surgery in Lubbock, your plastic surgeon will first tighten and correct this underlying structure to support a more aesthetic configuration. This restructuring will also help reduce the strain on your skin over time and help the results of your procedure last longer.

Improve Deep Wrinkles 

Have you heard of the latest laser treatment that claims to be the miracle solution you need to make you look younger? There are many trendy non-surgical options intended to smooth out unwanted facial wrinkles. Many patients are tempted to try these procedures to avoid having plastic surgery in Lubbock. The truth is, some wrinkles are too deep and can only adequately be improved with a facelift. A facelift is the only procedure proven to correct deep creases and wrinkles that form because of muscle tone loss and saggy skin. If you are tempted to try the newest laser treatment for facial wrinkles, just remember that the results will not be as dramatic or last as long as they would with a traditional facelift with a talented plastic surgeon.  

Erase the Effects of the Aging Process

As we get older, time and gravity aren’t always kind to our faces and we can end up looking tired and old long before we actually feel that way. Many women experience less definition around their neck and chin areas. Sometimes deep wrinkles will appear around the nose and mouth. A properly trained and experienced plastic surgeon can rejuvenate the overall appearance of your face, chin, and neck to give you a healthier, younger-looking appearance. When considering facelift plastic surgery in Lubbock for the right reasons, you can have an improved self-image which leads to greater confidence. With proper care and healthy living choices, you can expect the results of your facelift to last for many years. 

Facelift FAQs

If you are considering a lift for your face, you probably have many questions. It is always a good idea to bring your questions and concerns to your plastic surgeon, but here are some answers to the most common questions about facelift plastic surgery in Lubbock.

  • What does the surgery involve? Facelift surgery takes approximately 2-3 hours and requires the use of a general anesthetic. The surgeon tightens the face by removing excess skin through incisions near the hairline. Incision length varies depending on how much excess skin needs to be removed. The skin is elevated so the superficial facial muscles can be tightened as well. Additional procedures such as liposuction and laser resurfacing are often done to further enhance the final results of a facelift. When the procedure is complete, patients wake with a dressing and a small drain (kept in place for the first 24 hours).    
  • What Should I Expect During Recovery? After your procedure, you should plan to have someone stay with you for at least the first two days. You may experience some pain initially, but your doctor will prescribe medication to help ease discomfort. Dr. Rowley informs her patients that facelift recovery is not as painful or difficult as many people think. Experience varies from patient to patient, but most people can resume their normal activities within a few weeks. Sutures are removed one week after your facelift plastic surgery in Lubbock and you can expect to return to work after about 10-14 days. Swelling can last up to 6-8 weeks, but is significantly improved after 2-3 weeks.  
  • How much younger will I look? According to a 2011 study published in the medical journal Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, facelift patients reported the procedure took about 12 years off their appearance. In addition, the majority of study participants reported improved self-esteem and quality of life. A well-qualified plastic surgeon can achieve a stunning outcome on the right patient. It is important to remember that the results will look different on each patient, and that a facelift will not stop the aging process. However, the lifting and tightening of the facial skin and muscles refreshes your look dramatically. 
  • How long will my facelift results last? On average, facelift results will last about 10 years. But the longevity of your outcome depends on several factors, including your skin elasticity, the method used by your plastic surgeon, and how well you care for your skin after surgery. Daily use of sunscreen and a healthy diet can go a long way in preserving the rejuvenation of your face. Dr. Rowley tightens the facial muscles with each facelift she performs, which also helps her patients’ results last as long as possible. Even 10 years after your procedure, you should still look younger than you would if you had not undergone a facelift. 

Rejuvenation for the Eyes

A facelift tightens and lifts the skin on the lower two-thirds of the face. The upper portion, including the eye area, is not affected unless the patient chooses to include another procedure such as laser resurfacing. Dr. Rowley’s patients also have the option to have blepharoplasty, or an upper/lower eyelid lift, to brighten tired eyes. She has performed this procedure successfully for more than 20 years, and can achieve dramatic results on the right patient. Dr. Rowley has said, “The upper eyelids are the procedure that can give a patient the most significant change in their appearance with the most minimal surgical recovery.” If you are looking for a way to rejuvenate your eye area, blepharoplasty could be the right plastic surgery in Lubbock for you. 

An eyelid lift is a short surgery that has fast results. It is an effective way to brighten your look if you have excess skin on the upper or lower eyelids. Bags and puffiness can also be eliminated from the lower eyelids. The upper eyelids can be lifted in about 30 minutes with the use of a local anesthetic and mild sedation. A lower eyelid lift also takes about 30 minutes but typically requires general anesthesia. After surgery, patients will need to apply ice to the eyes as much as possible and should rest for 2-3 days. Your doctor will remove your sutures after 5-7 days and swelling usually resolves in 6-8 weeks. 

If you have under eye bags or puffiness, a lower eyelid lift can offer significant cosmetic improvement. However, the surgery is more complicated than the procedure for the upper eyelids. Every patient has unique skin quality, face shape, cheekbone placement, and existing skin laxity, adding to the complexity of the surgery. Dr. Rowley spent her training years in New York with some of the world’s top plastic surgeons and there she learned exactly how to approach this procedure. To achieve the best possible results for her patients, Dr. Rowley performs transconjunctival lower eyelid blepharoplasty with laser resurfacing as needed.

Add Definition to the Chin and Neck  

The sagging in your face can continue down to your chin and neck. A facelift can also target your neck and chin giving your face a more sculpted look. Tightening the skin on your neck and taking away the excess fat in the area of your jowls provides you with a more defined neck and chin.

A facelift will restore youth to the cheeks and eye area, but many people do not realize the importance of the neck and jawline. This plastic surgery in Lubbock can be paired with liposuction to better define the neck or jowl area. The effect is slimming and can take even more years off your look than a facelift alone. Removing just a small amount of fatty tissue under the chin has a dramatic effect with minimal recovery time. Watch the video below to learn how Dr. Rowley can give you excellent results with submental liposuction. 

Some patients experience cosmetic issues with their neck area before they start to see the typical signs of aging in their face. Submental liposuction has proven to be an effective plastic surgery tool for patients who struggle with excess fat around the chin and jawline. A double chin can cause you to look heavier or older than you are, and can decrease satisfaction with your appearance. Submental liposuction is a quick, straightforward plastic surgery in Lubbock that yields beautiful results. 

Using a small suction device called a cannula, your plastic surgeon can remove fat from the chin and neck region, revealing a younger, more defined neck and jawline. The procedure is easily done during an office visit using a local anesthetic. Submental liposuction takes just 20-30 minutes and results in very little, if any, scarring. Although swelling may last up to 4-6 weeks, most patients can return to normal activities within two days. With this quick office procedure and a couple days of downtime, you could look thinner, younger, and rejuvenate your confidence.

Get Natural Results from Plastic Surgery in Lubbock 

Dr. Jane Rowley has the knowledge and skills to give you the natural results you want from facial plastic surgery. She takes the time to answer questions and fully inform her patients before any procedure. With over two decades of plastic surgery experience, she understands what it takes to give her patients results that are tailored to their specific needs. Experience the difference you’ll find with Dr. Rowley today. Call our office today to schedule your no-obligation consultation and explore your options for plastic surgery in 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 makes 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 learn more about what to expect from a breast lift, watch the video below.

Preparing for Your Surgery

The right preparations for the day of your surgery can have an effect on your recovery. You will need to follow any pre-surgical instructions from the doctor carefully. 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 not to take some of the medications they are taking. Be sure to avoid any anti-inflammatory drugs or herbal supplements as they can increase your risk of bleeding. If you use nicotine, you will need to stop for several weeks before and after your surgery, as nicotine can affect your healing by decreasing blood flow to the skin. You will also want to make arrangements for someone to help you after your procedure.

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 the nipples is usually gone in the first couple of months after surgery. Scars may appear pink or red at first but will continue to fade over the next 12 months.

Combining Procedures for Dramatic Enhancements

If you are thinking about having a breast lift, you may have other areas of your body you’d like to address as well. Patients who undergo multiple procedures simultaneously save time and get more dramatic results. Combining procedures is often referred to as a “mommy makeover,” but moms are not the only ones who can benefit from doing so. Any plastic surgery candidate with more than one area of concern can consider treating all of those issues at the same time. Here’s a look at some of the procedures that are commonly paired with a breast lift in Lubbock.   

Breast Augmentation

Mastopexy provides lift and a youthful rejuvenation to the breasts, but it does not increase cup size. Many women are happy with their results without implants, but if you would like to add volume to your bust, you may choose to add breast augmentation to your plastic surgery wish list. Breast enhancement is a highly customizable procedure; you can select options from various sizes, implant types, and surgical placements. 

Implant Size

When it comes to choosing an implant size for your breast augmentation, you should think carefully about your goals. While it may be tempting to choose a much larger cup size, that may not always be the best choice, especially when combining breast enhancement with a breast lift in Lubbock. Your plastic surgeon can give you both added volume and a lift, but if the implants are too large and heavy, they can end up weighing your breasts down and negating the effects of your breast lift. However, having a breast lift and augmentation at the same time can perk up your breasts and give them the size that makes your confidence soar.

Implant Type

Women can choose from silicone gel or saline breast implants. Every implant has an outer shell made of silicone, but you have a choice as to which type of filling you want for the inner portion. Silicone gel implants are more popular because they look and feel more realistic. But silicone gel breast implants come with a risk for silent rupture, or leakage that can go undetected. The FDA recommends women with silicone gel implants get an MRI every few years to keep an eye out for silicone gel leakage. These MRIs are not covered by insurance and can add to the expense of your breast enhancement surgery over time.

Saline breast implants are another option for women considering adding volume to their breast lift in Lubbock. These implants have long been used by plastic surgeons and can look great on the right patient. They are filled with saline (sterile salt water solution), which the body can easily absorb in the event of an implant rupture. Additionally, no costly MRIs are necessary to detect leakage of a saline implant, because it will deflate noticeably. Another advantage for patients who choose saline implants is that they can be inserted through a smaller incision during surgery, resulting in minimal scarring. The drawback to saline breast implants is that they tend to lack an authentic feel. Some women, especially those who are very thin, may be able to see wrinkling or rippling of their saline implants through the skin. There is no right or wrong choice when it comes to the type of implant you choose. Talk to your doctor about your personal goals and priorities, and they will be able to guide you in your decision-making process.      

Breast Implant Placement

You can choose to have your breast implants placed under the pectoral muscle (submuscular placement) or under the breast tissue (subglandular placement). Patients who opt for submuscular placement typically have a longer surgery and recovery period, but the results look more natural. When the implant is placed beneath the muscle, it creates a more realistic slope to the breast. It also minimizes scar tissue and makes future mammograms easier to read. Perhaps most importantly, patients with implants under the muscle are less likely to experience capsular contracture. A study of 156 breast augmentation patients found capsular contracture to be much more common among those whose implants were placed over the chest muscle. Of the women who developed the complication, 58 percent had their implants on the subglandular level, and 9.4 percent had submuscular implant placement. 

Placing breast implants on the subglandular level results in a less complicated surgery and an easier recovery. It also helps patients avoid the animation, or unintended movement of the implants when the chest muscles are flexed. If you spend a lot of time at the gym in just a sports bra, you may prefer to have your implants over the chest muscle so this movement is not visible. Breast implants placed over the muscle can sometimes look less natural, and are more risky in terms of capsular contracture. The type of placement you choose for your breast implants depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and your anatomy. Talk to your doctor about how each method would affect the results of your breast lift in Lubbock.     

Breast Lift with Body Contouring

Many women who experience sagging in their breasts also feel dissatisfied with the appearance of their midsection. Belly flab and deflated breasts are very common for women who have had children, but these two areas can be completely rejuvenated with the right combination of plastic surgery procedures. Some patients may wish to combine a breast lift with liposuction or tummy tuck for a mommy makeover. 

  • Tummy Tuck: Also known as abdominoplasty, a tummy tuck gets rid of the excess skin women develop on their midsections as they age or after they have children. Many women struggle to redefine their tummy area after their skin has been stretched. It can be frustrating when diet and exercise don’t produce the results you want, but a tummy tuck can help. During surgery, excess skin is removed and the abdominal muscles are tightened. This means that if you experienced diastasis after pregnancy, abdominoplasty can repair those separated muscles. The outcome of a successful tummy tuck is a leaner, flatter stomach and a tighter core. When mommy makeover patients combine a tummy tuck with a breast lift in Lubbock, they can regain their youthful look and boost their confidence. 
  • Liposuction: Some patients struggle with stubborn fat on different areas of their body. For example, the thighs and love handles are notoriously difficult places to target with diet and exercise. Liposuction is a procedure that removes fat from specific locations on the body that retain fat despite your best efforts at the gym. Your plastic surgeon can give you a sleeker silhouette by suctioning out fat in areas with good skin elasticity. If you need to lose a significant amount of weight, liposuction may not be right for you because it is not meant to be a weight loss tool. However, it does get rid of unwanted fat and can create exceptional results when used on the right patient in the right area. 

Consider This

Before committing to a combination of procedures, you should take some time to educate yourself about what you can expect. With more surgeries come a longer recovery period and a higher risk for complications. The term “mommy makeover” may sound fun and exciting, but you should consult with your doctor before moving forward with multiple plastic surgeries. Consider Dr. Rowley’s thoughts on mommy makeovers:

There are benefits to combining a breast lift in Lubbock with other procedures. If you are a good candidate for a mommy makeover, you can save time and money by having multiple surgeries at once. Discuss with your doctor what options are best for you. 

Explore Your Breast Lift Options

Dr. Jane Rowley is a board-certified plastic surgeon with 20 years of experience helping her patients achieve their aesthetic goals. She takes the time to discuss your goals thoroughly, explains the procedure, and gives 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 today.

What to Know When Considering Breast Augmentation in Lubbock

For women in Lubbock, plastic surgery can help solve a wide variety of cosmetic issues. Whether you have unwanted fat or early signs of aging, your plastic surgery options range from a tummy tuck to a facelift and beyond. But year after year, the top requested cosmetic surgery across the nation is breast enhancement. As women age, and after having children, breasts can lose volume and their youthful shape. Perhaps you were born with smaller breasts that feel out of proportion with your body. Maybe you just haven’t felt like yourself since having children. Whatever your reasons are for wanting breast augmentation in Lubbock, it can help replace feelings of insecurity with renewed confidence. 

Learning About Your Options

Choosing to enhance your breasts is a big decision. Before making up your mind about getting breast enlargement, you will need to make several important choices. With all of the options available to personalize your procedure, it can feel a bit overwhelming at first. But, with a little research and some guidance from your plastic surgeon, you can formulate a plan that will give you the results you want. 

Breast Augmentation in Lubbock: Silicone Gel or Saline?

One of the important choices you will make will be to decide which type of breast implant material you prefer. First, it’s important to note that all breast implants approved by the FDA for use are constructed of a silicone shell. The difference, then, between silicone gel or saline implants is what the silicone shell is filled with, either silicone gel or saline (sterilized water and salt). We’ll discuss the basic pros and cons of each below.

The Pros and Cons of Silicone Gel Implants

With 85 percent of breast augmentation patients choosing silicone gel in 2019, it is the most common type of implant material used in today’s breast enhancements. So, what is it that makes silicone gel implants so popular? 

For one thing, many women prefer silicone gel because it is more similar to breast tissue than traditional saline implants in terms of its feel and viscosity. This means a silicone gel implant will sit, feel, and move more like a natural breast than the typical saline implants. Because of this, these implants have a lower risk of showing rippling in the tissue around the implant. If a natural look and feel tops the list of your goals for breast augmentation in Lubbock, you may want to consider opting for silicone gel implants.

Silicone gel breast implants, however, come pre-filled, meaning they require a larger incision than saline implants. Also, they have a risk of “silent rupture.” This happens when the implant fails and silicone gel leaks into the surrounding tissue. Most of the time, the leakage is undetectable because it does not impact the way your implant looks or feels. These ruptures can only be detected by a costly MRI (typically not covered by insurance) and the FDA recommends a woman with silicone gel implants have an MRI every few years. If a rupture occurs, the implant and silicone gel must be surgically removed. This greatly increases the long-term cost of your breast augmentation in Lubbock.

Why Women Choose Saline

Where silicone gel implants come pre-filled, saline breast implants are filled and adjusted during surgery. Since the implant is inserted empty, it requires a smaller incision. Then, your plastic surgeon can adjust the amount of saline inside your implant to achieve the right look for you. Another advantage to saline implants is that they are not susceptible to silent rupture. If there is a rupture with a saline implant, you can tell just by looking in the mirror and seeing the decrease in breast size. The saline, however, is harmless and will be absorbed by your body, posing no risk to your health. 

Typical saline implants have a tendency to ripple, which can be visible after breast augmentation in Lubbock. Also, as said above, they do not generally feel as natural as silicone gel implants. Patients often compare saline breast implants to water balloons, because of their similar lack of structure. This can cause problems for women who do not have enough breast tissue of their own to surround the saline implant. However, women with sufficient existing breast tissue may find that saline implants work well for their desired increase in volume. 

Choosing a Size

While the type of implant you choose can greatly affect your breast augmentation outcome, the implant size you select will also directly impact your results. According to a 2019 study, 41 percent of breast augmentation revision procedures were done because the patient wanted a change in size. But, before you tell your plastic surgeon what cup size you would like to be, spend some time thinking about how you want to look after your procedure. Do you want a subtle enhancement that looks very natural? Or would you prefer a drastic change in size that gives you the bust you’ve always dreamed of? 

Once you have done some thinking about your goals, it’s time to do some research. Look at some breast enlargement before and after photos of patients with breasts similar to yours. These visuals will give you a better idea about the look your plastic surgeon can achieve with your body type. It is also important to think about how your new breasts will feel. Before your breast augmentation in Lubbock, try placing rice bag sizers in your bra for a few hours to see what it would feel like to have breast implants. Grab a pair of old pantyhose and cut the feet out of the bottom. Pour uncooked rice (1 cup = 236 cc) into the pantyhose and tie off the ends. Wear them around, try on some of your favorite tops, and adjust the size to see what feels right. It’s not an exact science, but it can be a helpful way to “try on” a bigger breast size.  

What About a Breast Lift?

As noted, breast procedures are among the most requested plastic surgery options. Women want to feel good about how they look. And, when you feel confident in your appearance, you can’t help but feel confident in yourself. Breast augmentation in Lubbock helps many patients feel better about their appearance, but getting a bigger bust size is not the only way to boost self-esteem. Many women are happy with the size of their breasts, but dislike the effects of pregnancy, nursing, or aging. If you can relate, you may want to consider a procedure that will simply give your bust a more shapely appearance.

Mastopexy, or a breast lift, is a plastic surgery option for women whose breasts have significant sagging or drooping. A breast lift will take a sagging breast and raise it to a more youthful position, giving new life to a tired-looking bust. Your breast lift will not change your size, but will firm up the breast tissue, reposition the nipple, and give your breast a symmetrical shape. In effect, it can reverse some of the toll taken on your body by time, gravity, and possibly motherhood. If you can answer yes to some or all of the questions below, you may be a good candidate for a breast lift.

  • Do your breasts sag or droop?
  • Do your nipples point downward?
  • Are your breasts tubular or pendulous?
  • Are your breasts flat or elongated?
  • Do you have stretched or enlarged areolas?
  • Do your nipples sit below the crease of your breast?

Your plastic surgeon can correct all of these issues without breast augmentation in Lubbock. Even if a woman only suffers from one of these cosmetic problems, it is likely to affect the way she feels about her appearance. But you don’t have to accept feeling unhappy with your breasts. A breast lift removes excess breast tissue and skin, and moves the nipple to enhance the shape of the breasts. With more forward projection and a firmer, more youthful shape, your bust will allow you to wear flattering clothing and gain confidence in your appearance. 

Can I Do Both?

If you want to add volume to your breasts in addition to getting a lift, talk to your doctor about combining breast augmentation in Lubbock with mastopexy. A breast augmentation and a breast lift can work very well in tandem with each other in a single surgery. Excess skin is removed in the lift, your breast tissue and nipple are repositioned for a more youthful shape, while an implant then adds volume and size. The results of the two procedures can be dramatic on the right patient. 

One thing to keep in mind about combining a breast enlargement with a lift is that you need to be careful about the implant size you choose. The larger the implant you select, the heavier it will be. If the weight of the implant is too much for the lifted breast to support, the results of your mastopexy might not be what you hoped for. Consider your goals for your breast size, shape, and overall appearance so you can clearly communicate them to your plastic surgeon. They will then guide you through making the best decisions to help you reach your desired outcome. 

Reach Your Aesthetic Goals with Dr. Rowley

Whether you want larger breasts, lifted breasts, or both, plastic surgery provides the way for you to enhance your appearance in a customized way. All breast enlargements and lifts look different, because women have so many options to create their personal look. Breast augmentation science, technology, and technique has come a long way over the years, and when you pair those advancements with a well-qualified plastic surgeon, you can get exceptional results.

For breast lifts and breast augmentation in Lubbock, the leading plastic surgeon with extensive breast plastic surgery experience is Dr. Jane Rowley. She carefully and thoroughly talks with her patients to know their expectations and cosmetic goals as she makes an individual surgical plan for each person. She also believes in patient education and will take the time necessary to be sure you fully understand your procedure and what to expect. If you feel unhappy with the way your breasts look, consider plastic surgery as a way to boost self-esteem and regain satisfaction with your appearance. Dr. Rowley is board-certified, experienced, and ready to help you achieve your cosmetic goals. Schedule your no-obligation consultation today.

How a Tummy Tuck in Lubbock Could Benefit Your Health

Physical fitness and good health are lifelong pursuits. Nothing beats looking and feeling great, but no one is born with a perfect body. Some have to work harder for these goals than others. Eating right and exercising regularly are positive steps in the right direction; however, sometimes it can be frustrating when they don’t yield the desired results. In other words, what do you do when working out and managing your diet does nothing to get rid of your belly flab?

What Is a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck in Lubbock can help you overcome the hurdles that sheer hard work and determination can’t erase. Pregnancy, the aging process, and drastic weight loss can weaken abdominal muscles and make the belly sag with loose skin. No amount of sit-ups or crunches can rid the abdomen of unsightly hanging skin. A tummy tuck tightens muscles and trims stretched or loose skin and excess fat from the abdomen, giving the midsection of the body a flatter and more toned appearance. 

Tummy Tuck Surgery: What to Expect 

If you have excess skin on your abdomen, abdominoplasty is the plastic surgery that will get rid of it and flatten your belly. The procedure is done through a low horizontal incision, the length of which depends on how much skin needs to be removed. An incision is made around the belly button and the surrounding skin is lifted and redraped to achieve a flatter appearance. Core muscles are often tightened at the same time. Stretch marks are pulled downward and can sometimes be completely removed with a tummy tuck in Lubbock. Your surgeon will place drains after your surgery, which typically are removed about one week post-op. For more information on what to expect from a tummy tuck procedure, watch the video below.

Medical Benefits of Abdominoplasty

If you are seeking information about abdominoplasty, chances are it’s because you want to get rid of some stubborn belly flab or loose skin. Most patients seek out Lubbock plastic surgery to enhance their appearance and feel better about their bodies; but the advantages of a tummy tuck go far beyond what the eye can see. 

Reduction of Stress Urinary Incontinence

After a vaginal delivery, women can develop a bladder control issue known as Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI). Women with SUI experience uncontrollable urinary leakage when they cough, sneeze, exercise, or even laugh. Not only is urinary incontinence inconvenient; it can be a source of insecurity and embarrassment for women. It detracts from their quality of life and can prevent them from enjoying everyday activities. A tummy tuck in Lubbock can aid in the recovery of SUI by creating a slight soft tissue bladder obstruction near the pelvic area.

The findings of a study published in the March 2018 issue of the scientific journal, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery®, revealed that abdominoplasty can have a positive impact on post-pregnancy complications. Of the 214 participating mothers, 42.5 percent reported urinary incontinence to be a problem before having a tummy tuck. Six weeks after their tummy tucks were performed, that number dropped to less than 2 percent. The researchers found that all methods of abdominoplasty were effective in producing these positive results.

Relief From Back Pain

The same study also showed significant improvement for women who suffered from back pain. Fifty-one percent of participants lived with back pain before their tummy tucks, whereas only 9 percent still complained of the discomfort afterward. Tightening weak abdominal muscles enables them to better support the spine. This improves posture and can relieve certain types of back pain. After a tummy tuck in Lubbock, you will be able to stand a littler taller, not only because of the strength you’ll gain in your core, but also because of your strengthened confidence.

Hernia Healing

A weak abdominal wall can lead to the formation of a ventral hernia. Tummy tuck surgery can help correct weakened abdominal muscles and pressure on the skin caused by a hernia. Core-tightening abdominoplasty can also help prevent future hermias as they are less likely to occur in those with stronger abdominal muscles. A doctor may choose to combine the tummy tuck procedure with that of the hernia correction, which is not only a safe approach; it can save time and money in surgery and recovery.

Promotes Healthy Habits

Excess abdominal skin and fat can get in the way of a woman’s desire or ability to exercise. Finding flattering workout clothing and feeling comfortable at the gym starts to feel like an uphill battle. To make matters worse, certain movements become even more challenging with a belly bulge. A tummy tuck in Lubbock helps free women of the self-consciousness they feel while working out and makes it easier to perform exercises with proper form. Working out is hard enough; but with a flatter tummy, many women are able to better see their hard-earned results and stay motivated to keep those healthy habits.   

Cosmetic Benefits of a Tummy Tuck

Belly flab can make even the most confident women feel insecure. The abdomen is a trouble spot for many people. Even when you are not in a swimsuit, loose belly skin can be irritating. It is uncomfortable to feel flab hanging over the waistline of your pants, and it can be hard to accept the pudgy midsection seen in the mirror every day. No matter how many crunches you do or how strict you are with your diet, loose skin on the tummy may not disappear. So, how can a tummy tuck in Lubbock correct these issues?  

  • Flattens the tummy: One of the main reasons women seek abdominoplasty is to flatten a protruding abdomen. If you have had children or lost a drastic amount of weight, chances are your belly was left with loose skin or stubborn pockets of fat. A tummy tuck eliminates the loose skin and can be paired with liposuction to smooth out areas that have excess fat. 
  • Tightens the Core: Most patients understand the outward physical changes that take place with a tummy tuck, but many are unaware of the improvements made beneath the skin. Your plastic surgeon will tighten weakened abdominal muscles as part of your tummy tuck procedure. Pregnancy can stretch or even separate the ab muscles to the point of no return. This condition is known as diastasis recti, and many mothers experience it after their babies are born. A tummy tuck repairs these muscles, giving the abdomen a leaner, flatter appearance.   
  • Boosts Confidence: Losing a drastic amount of weight is something to celebrate, but sometimes it can feel disappointing to realize you still have leftover unsightly sagging skin. Having a child is a wonderful experience, but accepting your post-baby body is another story. Both of these events can have detrimental effects on your self-confidence by making you feel unsatisfied with the appearance of your belly. By flattening and tightening the core, a tummy tuck in Lubbock provides a welcome boost of self-esteem. When you have positive thoughts and feelings about the way your body looks, it spills over into the rest of your life, and opens the door for even more confidence. 

This procedure can have dramatic results when paired with liposuction of the abdomen or other areas. It can also be combined with other procedures as part of a mommy makeover to restore a pre-pregnancy body contour. Beyond pregnancy situations, many patients requesting tummy tucks or liposuction wish to trim loose skin after experiencing extreme weight loss in a short period of time.

Am I a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck in Lubbock?

Just because you have some of the above-mentioned medical issues does not mean abdominoplasty is right for you. Potential tummy tuck patients should consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to find out if plastic surgery will safely meet their needs and expectations. To get an idea about whether you might be a good candidate, ask yourself the following questions:

  • Am I in generally good health, physically and mentally?
  • Do I have realistic expectations for my surgical results?
  • Am I finished having children?
  • Can I keep my weight stable after the procedure?
  • Does the skin around my midsection look droopy?
  • Do I have weakened stomach muscles?

A simple test you can do at home will also help clarify whether a tummy tuck is right for you. Try laying on your back and seeing what happens to your stomach bulge. If it flattens out, then excess fat is likely on the outside of your stomach muscles. A tummy tuck in Lubbock can strengthen muscles and tighten loose skin giving you a flatter, healthier abdomen. If your midsection still looks rounded when you are laying flat, your stomach bulk could be further inside your abdomen and surgery may not be the right option for you. 

Remember, it’s important to consult with a board-certified surgeon who takes the time to explain the procedure thoroughly and knows how accurately to assess if you will benefit from a tummy tuck. Your surgeon should also carefully listen to your aesthetic goals to understand your expectations of any Lubbock plastic surgery.

Will a Tummy Tuck Help Me Lose Weight?

Abdominoplasty patients should not view the procedure as a weight loss tool. If you have a significant amount of weight or large amounts of fat to lose, talk to your doctor about alternative options that may work better for you. A tummy tuck is a skin removal procedure that includes the tightening of the abdominal muscles. If you want the results a tummy tuck can provide, you should be within 15-20 pounds of your ideal weight before you have the surgery. Some patients lose a few pounds after undergoing a tummy tuck in Lubbock, but losing too much weight can be detrimental to the outcome of the procedure. With that being said, patients should also keep in mind the importance of maintaining a healthy, stable weight. Doing so will help you keep your tummy tuck results intact for as long as possible. 

While a tummy tuck can come with multiple health benefits for some patients, it is not a substitute for healthy habits. Patients should continue their efforts to stick to regular exercise and a nutritious diet even after their procedure. Additionally, abdominoplasty is not a cure for obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol, or other weight-related health conditions. If you have questions or concerns about how a tummy tuck might affect your health, talk to a board-certified plastic surgeon.

Selecting a Plastic Surgeon   

Finding the right plastic surgeon can make all the difference in the results you see after a tummy tuck in Lubbock. The procedure is complex and should be tailored to each patient’s individual goals. An experienced, well-qualified surgeon will be able to evaluate your needs and provide you with a safe experience and an ideal outcome. As you search for a plastic surgeon, one of the first things you should do is confirm their board-certification with the American Board of Plastic Surgery. A board-certified plastic surgeon has the extensive training and knowledge to perform safe, ethical cosmetic procedures. Additionally, they must continue their education and training throughout their careers and pass exams every 10 years to keep their ABPS board-certification. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons provides a helpful tool for patients looking for a board-certified plastic surgeon in the U.S. or Canada. Watch the video below to learn more about the importance of selecting a board-certified plastic surgeon.

Take the Next Step Today

If you have had children or lost a drastic amount of weight, you don’t have to live with sagging belly skin forever. A tummy tuck in Lubbock can give you the flat, toned tummy you’ve always wanted. Dr. Jane Rowley has over 20 years of experience helping patients gain greater confidence in their physical appearance. Her world-class training, surgical expertise, and aesthetic sense are just a few of the reasons Dr. Rowley’s patients trust her with their cosmetic goals. If you are interested in a tummy tuck or other plastic surgery procedure, Dr. Rowley has the qualifications and experience to give you the results you desire. Call our office today to schedule your no-obligation consultation.    

Boost Your Confidence With a Breast Lift in Lubbock

With the holiday season fast approaching, it is gratifying to spend our time buying gifts and serving others. But it is also important to make sure we feel personally fulfilled as well. Like the saying goes, you can’t pour from an empty cup. We must first love and feel confident in ourselves before we can help others feel the same. If you feel unhappy with the appearance of your breasts because they sag and droop, you can lift your spirits with a breast lift in Lubbock. Many women struggle to accept the toll life can take on the youthful appearance of their breasts. Age, gravity, pregnancies, and fluctuations in weight can cause the breasts to take on a saggy or elongated shape. Whether a breast lift is a procedure you never thought you would want or something you have wanted to do for a long time, it is a procedure that can rejuvenate your bust and improve your confidence.

How Can a Breast Lift Help Me?

Do you feel dependent on your bra to mask the sagging or drooping of your breasts? Do you struggle to find clothing that fits well because of a bust that falls lower than it should? These breast issues can negatively affect a woman’s confidence and make it difficult for her to feel satisfied with her appearance. They can make you feel helpless, and these problems cannot be solved with exercise or diet changes. A breast lift in Lubbock is the only way to correct breast sagging. It’s a procedure that drastically improves the contours of the breasts. In fact, a breast lift could even give you the freedom to give up wearing a bra for good. 

A breast lift, also known as mastopexy, restores sagging breasts to give them a more youthful, perky shape. The surgery helps to raise the breasts by removing extra skin and tightening the skin around the surrounding tissue to support the new shape of the breast. The nipple and areola are moved to a more upward position. Unwanted stretch marks can also be eliminated during your procedure if they are part of the extra skin that is removed. 

Very large or downward pointing nipples can make women feel unhappy with the appearance of their breasts. A breast lift in Lubbock addresses nipples that are stretched, elongated, or larger than you would like. Your plastic surgeon will resize the nipples during surgery so they appear proportionate with the rest of the breasts. The new shape of the nipples and their higher position give the breasts a much more youthful, perky look.   

The most obvious benefits of a breast lift may be the cosmetic improvements, but there are also physical advantages to the procedure. Women with a low hanging bust sometimes experience skin irritation as a result of friction under the breasts. The constant rubbing of skin beneath the breast crease can cause pain, discomfort, rash, and even infection. With mastopexy, your plastic surgeon lifts the breasts off the underlying skin to relieve these symptoms and to alleviate any troublesome chafing. 

Watch the video below to learn more about mastopexy and to see whether it is the right procedure for you.

Why Women Love a Lift

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons’ most recent annual statistical report, 113,188 women had mastopexy in 2019. The number of patients having a breast lift increased by 3 percent from 2018 to 2019, and is growing in popularity even faster than breast augmentation. Many women like the idea of being able to perk up their breasts without having to place implants inside them. A breast lift in Lubbock is a great option for women who want to feel like themselves again by replacing sagging breasts with firm, youthful ones. 

Changing Breast Size

Mastopexy alone is often enough to achieve women’s goals for the appearance of their breasts. Patients undergoing a breast lift in Lubbock will not see noticeable changes in the size of their breasts, but the procedure can provide symmetry and more forward projection. If you want to change the size of your breasts, a breast augmentation or reduction can be done in combination with a lift to achieve your desired look. 

Breast Augmentation

For women who want to add volume at the same time as their mastopexy, breast augmentation can help. Whether you choose silicone gel, saline, or structured breast implants, breast augmentation can help you reach the volume you desire. Patients with only mild sagging may be able to lift their breasts with the placement of implants. Talk to your doctor about what you want in terms of size, because choosing an implant that is too big can work against the effects of your breast lift. When the right balance is achieved, patients enjoy beautiful results.

An article published in the medical journal Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery suggests that breast lifts are safe and effective when performed at the same time as breast augmentation. The authors of the report concluded that, with proper patient selection and the right surgical approach, the two procedures can be done simultaneously without a significant increase in the rates of complications or reoperation. With a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon, you can get the volume and the lift your breasts need. 

Breast Reduction

It’s not always easy for patients to know whether they need a breast reduction or a breast lift in Lubbock. The two procedures address different issues, but have similar goals. Breast reduction is for women whose breasts are too large or heavy for their liking. These patients often struggle with physical and emotional side effects caused by their breast size. It is not unusual for women with large breasts to suffer from chronic neck, back, and shoulder pain. Breast reduction with a lift offers relief from the heavy weight on your chest. It also helps resolve feelings of low self-esteem brought on by frequent unwanted attention on the chest area. 

Breast reduction is always performed in conjunction with a breast lift at Rowley Plastic Surgery. While breast reduction gets rid of excess weight and volume in the breasts, mastopexy takes care of sagging by tightening and supporting the breasts. The two procedures work together to remove excess skin and fat on the breasts and give them a more balanced and shapely appearance. An experienced, skilled plastic surgeon like Dr. Rowley can turn a burdensome bosom into perky, youthful breasts. 

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Breast Lift in Lubbock?

Many women are unhappy with their breasts but do not know which procedure would help their specific problems. If your breasts sag but you are unsure whether you might be a good candidate for a breast lift, you can do a simple test at home. Place a pencil under the fold of your breast and see if the pencil stays in place when you let go of it. If the pencil stays put, you may be a good candidate for a breast lift in Lubbock. You should also ask yourself a few questions about how you feel about your breasts.

  • Do your breasts sag?
  • Do your nipples point downward?
  • Do you have tubular or pendulous breasts?
  • Do you have larger areolas?
  • Are you satisfied with your breast symmetry?

It is also important to think about your general health and lifestyle. Because your breasts are affected by life changes, you should consider whether it’s the right time in your life for a breast lift. It is best to plan this procedure after you are finished having children and nursing babies so that you do not risk jeopardizing the results of your surgery. Women planning for a breast lift in Lubbock should maintain a stable weight and be in good health. If you smoke or use nicotine, you will need to quit for several weeks leading up to and following your surgery.  

Methods for Mastopexy

Just like any other surgery, mastopexy comes with scars. There are different types of incisions plastic surgeons use to lift the breasts, and the one that is right for you depends on the size of your breasts and the degree of sagging you have. Here are some of the most common techniques for mastopexy.

  • Anchor Lift: The anchor lift technique is the standard for most breast lifts. It is done through multiple incisions: one circling the areola, another running straight down from the base of the areola to the crease of the breast, and a third running horizontally across the breast crease. It is appropriate for larger breasts with more severe sagging because the incisions allow the surgeon to reshape the breast tissue and move the nipple to a higher position. Plastic surgeons often choose the anchor lift when performing breast reduction in addition to mastopexy. 
  • Lollipop Lift: If you do not wish to add breast augmentation to your breast lift in Lubbock, the lollipop approach may be the right one for you. This method involves a circular incision around the areola, as well as an incision running from the bottom of the areola to the breast crease. It is suitable for moderately sized breasts and involves fewer scars than the anchor lift.  
  • Donut Lift: Otherwise known as the “Benelli” lift, this method is for patients with only mild to moderate breast sagging. With a single incision around the areola, the breast skin is tightened and the nipple is moved to sit higher on the breast. A donut lift is less invasive than the anchor and lollipop lifts, and scarring is minimal. This technique can be used for women who also want breast implants at the time of mastopexy. 
  • Crescent Lift: The crescent lift approach is for patients with minimal breast sagging. A single, crescent-shaped incision is made on the upper half of the areola. The surgeon can make minor changes to the breasts and areola through the crescent incision. Breast augmentation can be performed when the plastic surgeon uses this technique. 

If you are worried about scarring after your breast lift, talk to your doctor about how you can maximize healing and minimize their appearance. Avoiding sun exposure is essential to proper scar healing, but your surgeon may also recommend certain products to help them fade more quickly. The most important thing to remember is that no one can see your scars unless you are without clothing; they are even well-hidden under swimwear. Most patients agree that trading sagging breasts for a few scars is more than worth it. 

Life After a Breast Lift in Lubbock

You can expect to experience some discomfort, swelling, and some draining initially after your breast lift. It’s important to follow your doctor’s post-surgery instructions carefully. Plan on taking about five to seven days off work as your breasts begin the healing process. You can expect to return to regular exercise after about four to six weeks of recovery. There will be some scarring but it will be hidden under clothing and swimwear and will continue to fade over time. Your new, perkier breasts will give you the freedom of going braless when you want to and boost your confidence overall.

Get the Results You Want With the Surgeon You Trust

Sagging breasts can weigh a woman down physically and emotionally. A breast lift in Lubbock is an excellent way to lift your spirits this time of year as you bring life back to your breasts. Whether your breasts sag a little or a lot, this versatile procedure can help rejuvenate your look and make you feel like yourself again. Patients who take good care of themselves can expect to enjoy the results of their surgery for many years to come. Dr. Jane Rowley is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience helping her patients achieve their cosmetic goals. She is the surgeon Lubbock women trust when they are ready to explore their plastic surgery options. If you are unsatisfied with your breasts and want to learn how a breast lift can benefit you, call our office for a no-obligation consultation today.

Getting the Most Out of Your Liposuction in Lubbock

We all know it takes time to see the results that come from working hard at the gym and staying on top of your diet. Sometimes, the trim figure you want can be earned with diligence and patience, but what do you do when your healthy habits don’t ever produce the results you want? If you feel frustrated that your efforts to take care of yourself aren’t making a difference in your appearance, consider liposuction in Lubbock as a possible solution. The effects of age, childbearing, and genetics often cause people to develop stubborn areas of fat on their bodies. This fat can be resistant to even the strictest diet and exercise routines, which is disheartening for many people. Taking care of yourself is important, and you should never give up on trying to live a healthy lifestyle. But, when your aesthetic goals just aren’t happening, liposuction might just be the right next step for you.  

Combining Procedures for Dramatic Results

Liposuction alone can make a great difference in the contour of your body, but it also works well when it is combined with other procedures for a more dramatic effect. Combining plastic surgery procedures is a convenient way to address multiple areas at once, with only one surgery day and one recovery period. If you are looking to make additional improvements to your appearance, consider the following plastic surgeries that pair well with liposuction in Lubbock. 

Breast Reduction

Many women with large breasts deal with pain and discomfort in their neck, back, and shoulders on a daily basis. A breast reduction alleviates these symptoms by reducing the size of the breasts and lifting the burden that weighs these patients down. Liposuction of the breasts helps give them a shapely, balanced appearance by getting rid of excess fat. Breast reduction with liposuction can free women from the discomfort of heavy breasts and dramatically increase their confidence. In some cases, liposuction alone may even be enough to give a patient the breast size and shape she desires. Your plastic surgeon can help you determine whether liposuction in Lubbock will help you achieve your breast reduction goals.   

Tummy Tuck

Belly flab can become a problem for women as they age or after they have children. Loose, hanging skin around the abdomen is difficult to conceal and virtually impossible to get rid of without plastic surgery. A tummy tuck removes excess skin and tightens core muscles to flatten the tummy and smooth out the skin. Patients commonly combine liposuction with abdominoplasty to eliminate stubborn fat and accentuate their new look. The combination of procedures can be very effective in targeting stubborn deposits of fat and stretched skin on women whose bodies have changed after bearing children. On the right patient, the two procedures provide a dramatic enhancement to the entire figure by flattening, toning, and trimming the midsection in all the right places. 

A tummy tuck is best known for helping to reduce sagging skin around the abdomen. It is also a significant procedure that involves the entire core of the body. A tummy tuck not only gets rid of loose skin but also tightens and contours the abdominal wall and muscles. For the right patient, the results can be exceptional. It is common for patients to consider having liposuction in Lubbock performed in tandem with a tummy tuck for even greater cosmetic effect. 

Patients who have gone through drastic weight loss can be left with sagging skin around the thighs, hips, and buttocks. Imagine having finally lost a significant amount of weight and still feeling self-conscious about your body because of leftover flabby skin. It might be easy to slip back into old habits if you continue to struggle with body image. Performing liposuction with a tummy tuck corrects both the flabby skin and any remaining stubborn fat. The combination has a powerful effect to help improve the appearance of these patients’ appearance at their new weight.

Arm Lift

Patients seek an arm lift, or brachioplasty, when they are ready to get rid of sagging skin on their upper arms. Sometimes, the skin can hang so severely that it causes women to feel insecure about their arms. If you have felt too embarrassed to wave hello to a friend because of your sagging arm skin, a combination of brachioplasty with liposuction could be a positive solution. During an arm lift, your plastic surgeon removes excess skin and fat through an incision along the underside of the arms. Liposuction in Lubbock can help further enhance the results of an arm lift by targeting specific areas of fat and revealing toned, trim looking arms.  

Breast augmentation

With the placement of breast implants, women can add fullness and volume to their breasts. Increasing breast size with breast enhancement often helps create more balance in the figure. If the hourglass shape is what you’re hoping for, liposuction could be the perfect addition to your breast augmentation procedure. Liposuction will get rid of unwanted fat around the midsection (or other areas on your body) and make the curves of your new bust appear even more dramatic. Liposuction in Lubbock is commonly performed together with breast enlargement for patients who have mommy makeovers, but combining procedures isn’t just for women who have had children. If you are interested in addressing multiple areas with only one recovery period, talk to your plastic surgeon about the benefits of having more than one cosmetic procedure at a time.   

How Liposuction Works

Liposuction removes excess fat to enhance the contour of your body. Your doctor will insert a thin tube (or cannula) into the area of fat through a small incision. With the tumescent technique, fluid is injected to help keep blood loss to a minimum and to serve as a local anesthetic. Fat cells are broken up and suctioned out to reveal a smoother overall body shape. Incisions are closed and a compression garment is typically placed when the procedure is complete. Liposuction in Lubbock is not meant to be a weight loss surgery. The main goal is to give the patient a slimmer frame by targeting those specific areas of localized fat when they don’t respond to diet and exercise. 

If you have just a limited area of troublesome fat, your liposuction procedure may require only local anesthetics at an outpatient appointment. Patients with more significant areas of fat may need general anesthesia for their procedure at a surgical facility. Some bruising and swelling is normal, as is mild to moderate discomfort during the early stages of healing. Pain medications are prescribed to keep you feeling comfortable. Recovery time varies from person to person, but you should expect to take 2-3 days off work. A full return to normal activity after liposuction in Lubbock can take up to 4-6 weeks.

For Dr. Jane Rowley’s thoughts on liposuction, watch the informative video below.

Customizing Your Liposuction Procedure

Dr. Rowley wants all of her patients to love their plastic surgery results and feel confident in their appearance. She believes in educating her patients though thorough, honest conversations about every procedure. During your liposuction consultation with Dr. Rowley, she will evaluate your areas of concern, and give you her expert opinion on the best treatment plan for you. 

Because of differences in skin elasticity, some regions of the body respond better to liposuction than others. A plastic surgeon can suction fat from anywhere on the body, but what can really make or break your results is the way the skin looks after the fat is removed. Areas such as the inner thighs tend to have poorer skin elasticity, which means the skin there is more likely to appear saggy or loose after liposuction. Consider the following areas that typically respond well to liposuction.

Waist

Even with a consistent diet and exercise routine, losing inches around the waistline can be very difficult. As women age and have children, fat begins to accumulate on the waist and can also give the appearance of a muffin top. Liposuction in Lubbock gets rid of that stubborn fat and can dramatically decrease the size of your waist. 

Outer Thighs

The outer thighs are another common problem area for women. This excess fat can make it difficult to find clothing that fits or feels flattering. With liposuction, the shape of your outer thighs can be refined to enhance your curves and give you a slimmer silhouette.  

Hips

Excess fat around the hips is not easy to get rid of. Diet and exercise may help, but the best way to slim the hips is to target fat with liposuction. Defining the hips in this way complements the overall proportions of your body and helps achieve that hourglass figure many women desire. 

Flanks

The flanks are located above your hips around your back. If you have fat deposits in these areas, you may have not-so-lovingly referred to them as your “love handles.” Liposuction in Lubbock works well for this common problem area because skin elasticity is favorable in this region. Eliminating unwanted fat on the flanks with liposuction is a great way to feel more comfortable in your clothing and more confident in your appearance. 

Chin region

Whether it is caused by age, heredity, or weight gain, fat accumulation around the chin and neck area has a way of making women look older and heavier than they really are. Submental liposuction is a relatively simple procedure that creates a dramatic improvement for patients with excess fat on the chin, neck, or jawline. The procedure takes only 20-30 minutes with a local anesthetic. After just two days of downtime, most patients are able to return to all of their normal activities.  

Dr. Rowley will speak candidly with you about your options for a customized liposuction experience. For more information about the procedure, watch the video below.

Mommy Makeover Options Include Liposuction in Lubbock

Childbirth is an exciting and emotionally fulfilling life event, but it is frequently followed by women’s diminished satisfaction with their bodies. With proven surgical techniques, a post-childbirth body can regain the firm, youthful look it once had. A mommy makeover is not just one procedure but an individualized combination of plastic surgery options. The goal of this Lubbock plastic surgery is to change the effects of childbirth on a woman’s body. 

After pregnancy and nursing, stomach muscles weaken and abdominal skin loosens and sags. Some women’s breasts can lose volume and look deflated, while others suffer from uncomfortably large breasts. Often a woman’s body can have stubborn pockets of fat that are unresponsive to diet and exercise. A few procedures that work well together to improve the appearance of areas of concern after childbearing include:

  • Liposuction
  • Tummy Tuck
  • Breast Augmentation
  • Breast Lift
  • Breast Reduction 

It’s important to communicate clearly with your doctor about your expectations for your surgical outcome. Your surgeon will advise you as to which procedures will work best for your body type. If you are thinking about a mommy makeover, make sure you are in good health, are at a stable weight, and have realistic expectations of your results. We can’t completely stop the effects of aging or life changes on our bodies, but combining procedures for a mommy makeover can help restore confidence in your post-pregnancy body.

The Best Surgeon for Your Best Results

Whether on its own or combined with other procedures, liposuction in Lubbock gives your body a slimmer look that can help you feel more confident in your body and more comfortable in your clothing. Choosing the right surgeon is paramount to having the best possible results from your surgery. Our Lubbock plastic surgery patients are our number one priority at Rowley Plastic Surgery. Dr. Jane Rowley is your board-certified surgeon who carefully consults with each patient to understand each individual’s cosmetic goals and needs. She has over 20 years of experience helping patients turn their cosmetic dreams into reality. If you struggle with stubborn areas of fat on your body, contact Lubbock’s most trusted plastic surgery expert. You can expect confidence, competence, and clear communication at Rowley Plastic Surgery. Call today and schedule your no-obligation consultation.

Smart Planning for Your Plastic Surgery in Lubbock

It is perfectly normal to have some nerves or anxiety about surgery. Many people start to feel overwhelmed when they consider everything that goes into having plastic surgery. But, when you focus on the positive changes your procedure can make in your life, those nervous feelings should turn into excitement. Don’t let anxiety keep you from achieving the aesthetic goals you have set. Find a plastic surgeon you trust, learn everything you can about your procedure, and remember why you wanted plastic surgery in the first place. Pouring positive energy into your cosmetic journey will help you feel calm and confident throughout your experience with plastic surgery in Lubbock.

Most plastic surgery patients end up healthy and happy with their results – but those aren’t the stories that make news headlines. Hearing about the less than ideal experience of some unfortunate patient should not deter you from pursuing plastic surgery in Lubbock. If you are willing to do your homework and can commit to being an informed patient, you can minimize your risk of having a negative experience.  

How to Choose the Right Plastic Surgeon

The most important factor for a successful outcome is to find the best doctor available for the surgery you are considering. When searching for something like a new car repair shop or hairdresser, most people rely solely on online reviews. While that can be a great place to start, your selection of a plastic surgeon should involve a little more effort. For one thing, you are entrusting this doctor with your health and your appearance. We all want to know we are in good hands, but do you know how to go about selecting the right surgeon? 

Make Sure Your Plastic Surgeon is Board-Certified

Board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) is a must. The government doesn’t require doctors to be experienced or specifically trained in all of the procedures they may be offering. Beware of doctors who call themselves “cosmetic surgeons,” because any doctors who do cosmetic procedures can advertise themselves as such. A general surgeon won’t have the training or skills specifically needed for cosmetic plastic surgery procedures. Finding yourself in the hands of an inexperienced surgeon can increase the chances of your dissatisfaction with the results of your plastic surgery in Lubbock, or other complications. Don’t be afraid to ask questions that will give you a better idea of the experience and training the doctor has, such as:

  • Where did you go to school?
  • Are you certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery?
  • What additional training have you received?
  • How long have you been performing the procedure?
  • What complications have you come across with this procedure?
  • Will the surgery take place in an accredited facility?

To qualify for ABPS board-certification, plastic surgeons must complete extensive training, pass rigorous oral and written exams, and continue their education throughout their careers. A board-certified plastic surgeon is committed to practicing safe and ethical plastic and reconstructive surgery. ABPS board-certification ensures your surgeon has the training, knowledge, skill, and proper licenses to perform your procedure. For more information on the importance of board-certification, watch the video below.

Shop Smart for Plastic Surgery in Lubbock

Plastic surgery is not the time to go bargain shopping for your procedure. If you find a doctor offering deep discounts, it could be a sign of limited experience or cutbacks on quality staff members. You get what you pay for – and you don’t want to skimp when it comes to your health or your appearance. This is not to say you need to choose the most expensive plastic surgeon, but It will take work on your part to ensure you are getting the best care from the best plastic surgeon. Lubbock doctor reviews can be a great starting point. Get the opinion of nurses and healthcare workers, and schedule a consultation visit before you decide on the physician that’s right for you.

When researching plastic surgery in Lubbock, you may also come across cosmetic tourist packages. Plastic surgery tourism has become a popular trend in recent years. Some patients choose to travel outside the country to have procedures done for a fraction of what they would cost in the U.S. It is possible to have a positive experience with traveling abroad for surgery, but it is important to take extra precautions and use your best judgment if you choose to do so. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons urges patients to think carefully about the risks they are taking by opting to have surgery outside the country. 

Follow Your Personal Feelings

It’s important to feel comfortable with your doctor and the staff. Visit their office and get to know who will be taking care of you. Even if something just doesn’t feel right during your consultation, it is probably best to find another plastic surgeon with whom you feel more comfortable. 

Trust your gut when it comes to finding the best plastic surgeon. Patients having plastic surgery in Lubbock should also remember that beauty is often in the eye of the beholder and can mean different things to different people. Make sure that you and your doctor are on the same page so that your cosmetic goals are understood and surgical expectations are realistic. Look at their before and after photo gallery to gain insight into their personal style and aesthetic sense. If you don’t like much of what you see, chances are you may not be completely satisfied with your own results with that particular surgeon. 

Learn About Your Procedure

Learning everything you can about what to expect before, during, and after your procedure will help you feel confident throughout the process. Patients who are nervous about plastic surgery in Lubbock can take comfort in knowing exactly what will happen next, every step of the way. Understanding your surgery in this way takes the fear out of the experience, because there are fewer unknowns. Spend some time researching the procedure, read stories of other patients on RealSelf, and talk to your doctor about each of your questions and concerns. Dr. Jane Rowley is committed to helping her patients fully understand their plastic surgery process, and will spend all the time it takes to make sure they feel comfortable.   

Know What to Expect During Recovery

Coming out of surgery without knowing what to expect can be a scary experience. Your body will need time to heal, time for swelling to go down, and time before plastic surgery results are fully seen. Your doctor will have recommended a post-surgery recovery plan. Being prepared for the recovery period before your surgery will not only put your mind at ease; it will help you heal better. To be better informed about your recovery, consider asking these questions and any others you may have:

  • How long will my recovery take?
  • How long before I will see my full results?
  • What are the risks and complications associated with my procedure?
  • What if I have concerns after my procedure?
  • What will my scars look like long-term?
  • Is there anything I can do to aid or speed up recovery?

Understanding the Plastic Surgery Blues

Plastic surgery in Lubbock can sometimes make patients feel like they are on an emotional roller coaster. They can feel everything from excitement and joy to anxiety and apprehension. It is also common for patients to even feel a little down after having plastic surgery. When the anesthesia wears off and you find yourself in full-blown recovery mode, it can be tough to feel as excited as you were before the surgery. In addition, the final results of your procedure won’t be visible for weeks or even months, as swelling takes time to resolve. Some patients may even question why they chose to have plastic surgery in the first place. It is important to understand these feelings and how to cope with them. Consider the following ways patients can deal with the post-surgery blues:

  • Be honest with yourself and your doctor about your motives for having plastic surgery in Lubbock. Patients who have realistic expectations for their surgical outcomes are more likely to be disappointed afterwards.
  • Before your surgery, write a note to yourself to read during recovery. Remind yourself why you want the procedure and what your goals were. 
  • Be patient with your body as it heals. Give yourself time to rest and don’t feel like you have to jump back into your normal routine right away.
  • Call your plastic surgeon. Talk to your doctor about your feelings and concerns so they can give you the support you need.
  • Move your body (according to your doctor’s instructions). Getting out of bed and taking a relaxing walk can do wonders for your mental and physical well-being. 

Not all patients feel down after having plastic surgery; but if you do, take comfort in knowing you’re not alone and that it is only temporary. Emotions can change day by day and typically improve as patients get further in the healing process. Dr. Rowley and her compassionate staff members are here to support you before, during, and after your procedure. Remember that you can always call our office with any question or concern. 

Focus on the Finish Line

During a marathon, runners who keep their focus on the finish line often perform better. In fact, a study published in the journal Motivation and Emotion revealed that exercisers who kept their attention on a stopping point ahead of them moved more quickly and felt less exertion than those who were free to look about naturally. Plastic surgery patients can also benefit from staying focused on their goals. At times, plastic surgery can feel like a long race. When patients keep their eyes on the prize, or focus on their final cosmetic results, it can improve their mental and emotional state and may help them through the toughest parts of recovery. The confidence boost that comes from feeling great about the way you look will more than make up for the temporary discomfort felt after plastic surgery in Lubbock. 

Think it Through

Plastic surgery involves many important and very personal choices. It is not something that should be rushed. Give yourself time to think it all through, and remember that it’s ok to change your mind about things. Putting forth the extra effort to be a well-informed patient can pay off big in the end by maximizing your chances for great results. When you are mapping out your cosmetic goals, be sure to remember these tips:

  • Prioritize board-certification – Any doctor can claim to be a cosmetic surgeon. Be certain that yours is board-certified, well-trained, and experienced in your procedure. 
  • Just say no to bargain shopping – It might work for some things, but your health and cosmetic results are not worth risking to save a few extra bucks. Also beware of the plastic surgery tourism trend, as it comes with added risk.
  • Listen to your gut – If something feels off during your consultation appointment, trust the feelings you have. Find a surgeon with whom you can communicate clearly.
  • Learn about your procedure – Spend time researching your surgery so you can be a well-informed patient. The more you know, the less there is to fear about plastic surgery in Lubbock. 
  • Plan for recovery – There should not be any surprises during your recovery period. Educate yourself by asking questions prior to surgery day.
  • Watch out for plastic surgery blues – Feeling emotional after plastic surgery is normal, but don’t ever hesitate to call your doctor if it becomes too much to handle.
  • Keep your eye on the finish line – Visualize yourself with your new cosmetic enhancement. Think about the goals you set out to achieve to keep a positive state of mind.

Call Lubbock’s Plastic Surgery Expert

Don’t let fear, anxiety, or nerves get in the way of achieving your cosmetic goals. At Rowley Plastic Surgery in Lubbock, you have the opportunity to work with a board-certified surgeon with over twenty years experience in the field of plastic surgery. Dr. Jane Rowley strives to carefully consult with each patient for the best possible results. Schedule your no obligation consultation appointment to meet her staff and discover your cosmetic options.

When Bigger Isn’t Better: Breast Reduction Plastic Surgery in Lubbock

There seems to be an ever-present sentiment in our culture that “bigger is better” when it comes to breast size. The women who live with and carry those breasts on a daily basis, however, understand that there is a lot to managing large breasts than what the over-simplification of what “bigger is better” implies. In fact, there is even a medical term for when a woman’s breasts are too large: macromastia. For the woman whose back constantly aches due to the weight of her breasts, or feels uncomfortable with aerobic activities due to the weight and size of her breasts, or struggles to find a comfortable and fully supportive bra due to the size of her breasts, maybe it’s time to consider a breast reduction (or mammaplasty). Even in Texas, women know that, when it comes to breast plastic surgery in Lubbock, bigger is NOT always better. A smaller breast size could be the answer to health and lifestyle issues.

Is Breast Reduction Plastic Surgery in Lubbock Right for You?

Sometimes losing a few pounds is all it takes to feel better about your breast size. But, for a lot of women, even drastic weight loss cannot provide the relief they want from their large breasts. When the weight of your heavy chest becomes too much for you to bear, breast reduction could be the right option for you to consider. Here are a few questions to help you evaluate if a breast reduction is right for you:

  • Does the weight of your breasts contribute to neck, back, or shoulder pain?
  • Do you have heavy breasts with nipples that point downward?
  • Is one of your breasts much larger than the other?
  • Are you unhappy and self-conscious about your appearance because you feel your breasts are too large?
  • Are you physically healthy?
  • Do you have realistic expectations?

If you answered yes to one or more of the questions above, you may be a good candidate for breast reduction. The procedure is one of the top plastic surgeries in terms of patient satisfaction. In fact, breast reduction patients rated the procedure to be 98 percent “worth it” according to the online plastic surgery community RealSelf. The overwhelming satisfaction with breast reduction is due to the tremendous, immediate relief patients feel after their plastic surgery in Lubbock is complete.  

Learn more about breast reduction from Dr. Rowley in the video below:

How Large Breasts Impact Daily Life

Even though the media would like women to believe that larger breasts are better, many women who naturally have a bigger chest size can tell you differently. From getting dressed in the morning to trying to sleep at night, large breasts can make many aspects of daily life challenging. Consider the following disadvantages caused by overly large breasts. 

  • Physical Discomfort: Women with very large chests commonly suffer from chronic neck, back, and shoulder pain because of the weight that constantly pulls them forward. These symptoms are often accompanied by tension or migraine headaches and can sometimes even lead to numbness or tingling in the hands. Bra straps supporting large breasts can dig painful grooves into the shoulders. A heavy chest can also create shortness of breath or breathing problems that disrupt sleep. As a result of friction and moisture that gets trapped under the breasts, women may also experience irritation in the form of skin rashes in this sensitive area. Breast reduction plastic surgery in Lubbock allows the skin to heal and relieves the body of a burdensome chest. 
  • Emotional Stress: Society has a fascination with large breasts, which means that women who have them attract plenty of attention. For most of these women, those looks and stares are unwelcome and create a deep sense of insecurity. Over time, these self-conscious feelings can lower self-esteem and damage a woman’s emotional and mental well-being. Finding clothing that fits properly can also prove to be a challenge, and even when an outfit is modest, large breasts can make it fit wrong or look suggestive. A large chest can sometimes make it hard for a woman to present herself in a way that makes her feel comfortable.   
  • Impaired Mobility: Large breasts can become an even bigger problem when it comes to physical activity. They make stretching, bouncing, lifting (and just about everything else you can do at the gym) much more difficult. In addition to getting in the way of a good workout, large breasts can make it hard to find active wear that fits comfortably. With all of these barriers, it is no surprise that large-breasted women are less likely to get the exercise they need to stay healthy. According to a study published in the Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport, women with large and hypertrophic breasts participate in significantly less physical activity every week when compared to smaller-breasted women. If your chest is so burdensome that it limits your ability to exercise or participate in sports activities, it may be time to consider breast reduction plastic surgery in Lubbock. Getting regular exercise is essential to enjoying a healthy, happy life, and if your breasts are preventing you from doing so, talk to a plastic surgeon to see if a breast reduction is right for you. 

While losing weight can make a small difference in your breast size, women who feel their breasts interfere with their lives can really benefit from breast reduction. No amount of diet or exercise will make large breasts into small ones. When you are ready to make a life-altering change in your appearance, consider the benefit of plastic surgery. Lubbock surgeon Dr. Jane Rowley has seen countless lives positively changed from a breast reduction procedure.

The Benefits of Breast Reduction

Breast reduction gives women the opportunity to find reprieve from the burdens caused by breasts that are too large. Living free of chronic pain and discomfort gives these women the chance to heal and feel a huge sense of relief. Insecurities tied to the appearance of large breasts are diminished and replaced with renewed confidence. And, breast reduction patients often find it much easier and more enjoyable to participate in their favorite physical activities. The procedure is known for greatly improving quality of life, and it could help you live your best life as well. 

Cosmetic Enhancement

What if your breasts are big, but not big enough to cause pain or discomfort? Some breast reduction patients seek the procedure with aesthetic change as their main motivation. A large bust can make a woman’s figure appear top heavy and off balance. When the breasts are made smaller, it gives the body a more proportionate appearance. Large breasts also tend to have large or stretched areolas. With breast reduction, your plastic surgeon also reduces the size of the areola to match the newly shaped breasts.  

Breasts that are too big can begin to sag and can make women appear older than they really are. Removing excess skin and fat from the breasts can give you a younger appearance. Without the extra weight making them hang low and causing you to slouch, your new smaller breasts will help you look and feel more youthful and fresh. Women who have breast reduction plastic surgery in Lubbock enjoy a renewed sense of confidence and energy.    

How to Prepare for Plastic Surgery in Lubbock

A little planning and preparation can help you feel less stressed during your plastic surgery experience. If you are looking forward to your breast reduction, here are some items you may want to add to your to-do list.

  • Stop Smoking: We all know how dangerous smoking is for our health, and it is even more dangerous for people who are having plastic surgery. Nicotine restricts the blood vessels, which limits the amount of oxygen that tissues need to stay healthy. Patients who smoke are more likely to develop infections, have poor wound healing, and put themselves at greater risk for further complications. Your doctor will inform you of specific guidelines, but most plastic surgeons require patients to stop using nicotine in all its forms for several weeks before and after the surgery.
  • Get a Mammogram: It is common for patients to undergo various types of lab testing before having plastic surgery in Lubbock. Some plastic surgeons recommend that patients who are preparing for breast reduction have a mammogram. This test helps by providing a baseline to which your physicians can refer as they monitor your breast health.  
  • Request Time Off Work: Breast reduction is major surgery and requires most patients to take 10-14 days off work. Depending on the amount of physical activity your job requires, you may need up to four weeks of medical leave. Be sure to schedule your time off well in advance of your procedure so that you don’t have to reschedule if your request isn’t approved right away.   
  • Ask for Help: After surgery, you will need someone to drive you home. It is best to have someone stay with you for at least the first 24 hours of your recovery. You will need extra help around the house, especially if you have pets or children. Making these arrangements ahead of time will ease your mind and make your recovery go more smoothly after plastic surgery in Lubbock. 
  • Prepare for Recovery: Some patients are so excited for their procedure that they forget to plan for their recovery. Pick up any prescriptions you can ahead of time so you don’t have to run to the pharmacy after surgery. Stock your kitchen with healthy, easy to prepare meals and snacks. Make a stack of magazines and books to occupy your mind when you’ve had enough of binge watching. Make your space as comfortable as possible so you can get the rest your body needs as it heals. 

Breast Reduction Surgery: the Procedure

A breast reduction plastic surgery in Lubbock takes about two hours and is performed under general anesthetic. It can be done in either a surgicenter or in an office operating suite. It involves an incision made around the nipple and another incision down vertically to reach underneath the breast. This type of incision allows the plastic surgeon to reposition your nipple, reduce the size of the areola, and remove excess breast tissue. In most cases, milk ducts, nerves, and blood vessels are left intact. This gives women the best chance to still be able to breastfeed after the surgery. 

Breast Reduction and Breast Lift Combined 

A breast reduction always involves a breast lift (mastopexy) to create a natural appearance with the new breast size after surgery. Breast reduction simply reduces the size and volume of the breasts by removing tissue, but a lift is what gives the bust a more flattering shape. A breast lift helps give forward projection to the breasts as it allows your plastic surgeon to reposition the nipple. If younger, perkier breasts are what you want, these two procedures work well together to achieve those goals. 

Results of a Breast Reduction

Women who have undergone breast reduction surgery enjoy a more proportionate body; an alleviation of neck, back, and shoulder pain; and more confidence in the fit of their clothes and their general appearance. 

It’s important to remember that the results of the surgery, for some, may include a decrease in sensation in some areas, including the nipple and around the nipple, a difficulty in breastfeeding, and a slight unevenness between the breasts or nipples. Dr. Jane Rowley will guide you through additional questions prior to your plastic surgery in Lubbock to ensure a breast reduction is a good solution for your concerns and goals. Setting up a consultation is a great next step for you to get more information.

Explore Your Breast Reduction Possibilities 

Breast reduction patients are some of the happiest people who choose to have plastic surgery in Lubbock. Women with larger breasts feel greater self-confidence, less physical discomfort, and an overall sense of relief. Dr. Rowley carefully talks with her patients to know their individual expectations for their surgery. She is committed to giving the best care with breast reduction procedures. Call for your personal consultation today.

Contact Dr. Jane Rowley for a personal consultation today to determine the right procedure and size for you and your body.