What Factors Influence the Process of Implant-Based Reconstruction Surgery for Breast Cancer Patients?

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  1. Factors such as skin envelope, breast size, and body habitus influence the process of implant-based reconstruction surgery.
  2. A multidisciplinary approach involving collaboration with oncologists, breast surgeons, and radiologists is essential for achieving the best results.
  3. Proper support and sizing of the implant are crucial for creating a natural, aesthetically pleasing reconstructed breast.

Introduction

Implant-based reconstruction surgery is a common option for breast cancer patients who have undergone mastectomy or lumpectomy. This procedure helps restore the appearance of the breast and can greatly improve patients’ self-esteem and confidence. Dr. Effie Politis, a plastic surgeon in Tampa, FL, explains the various factors that influence the process of implant-based reconstruction surgery and the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to achieve the best possible results.

Evaluating Skin Envelope, Breast Size, and Body Habitus

The first step in the implant-based reconstruction process is to evaluate the patient’s skin envelope, breast size, and body habitus. These factors play a crucial role in determining the most suitable reconstruction technique and implant size for each patient. By taking these factors into consideration, the plastic surgeon can create a personalized treatment plan that addresses the patient’s unique needs and goals.

Working in a Multidisciplinary Approach

Dr. Effie Politis emphasizes the importance of working in a multidisciplinary approach when performing implant-based reconstruction surgery. This involves collaborating with other specialists such as oncologists, breast surgeons, and radiologists to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s condition and treatment needs. By working together, the team can develop a cohesive and effective plan for the patient’s breast reconstruction surgery.

Reconstructing Natural Anatomic Landmarks

Once the breast surgeon has removed the breast tissue, ligaments, and tail of the breast, it is the plastic surgeon’s responsibility to reconstruct the natural anatomic landmarks. Dr. Effie Politis explains that this involves creating a mound using an implant and a supportive scaffold or structure. This ensures that the reconstructed breast has the appropriate shape, size, and position.

Supporting and Sizing the Implant

The implant used in breast reconstruction surgery cannot be placed directly under the skin; it must be properly supported by re-establishing the lateral anatomy, folds, and cleavage area. Furthermore, it is essential to size the patient for the correct implant to be used during surgery. This ensures that the reconstructed breast is proportionate to the patient’s body and provides a natural, aesthetically pleasing result.

Politis Plastic Surgery: Expert Care for Breast Reconstruction Patients

If you are a breast cancer patient considering implant-based reconstruction surgery, trust the expertise and compassionate care of Dr. Effie Politis and her team at Politis Plastic Surgery in Tampa, FL. With a multidisciplinary approach and personalized treatment plans, Politis Plastic Surgery is dedicated to helping patients achieve the best possible outcomes in their breast reconstruction journey.

TRANSCRIPTION:

Hi, my name is Dr. Effie Politis with Politis Plastic Surgery.

Implant-based reconstruction, again, applies to the majority of our patients. So what we do is we evaluate their skin envelope, their breast size, body habitus, and we formulate a plan in conjunction with our breast surgeon. We work in a multidisciplinary approach. That means we work with their oncologists, their breast surgeons, their imaging specialists or radiologists.

We make sure we understand whether the placement of the tumor and how we can place our incisions to remove the breast. The breast surgeon removes the breast, but when that happens, they obliterate or they basically remove all the ligaments, the breast tissue, all the ligaments, the tail of the breast.

So my job is to go in and reconstruct the natural anatomic landmarks and then reconstruct a mound. Again, I typically use an implant to make the mound with a scaffold or supportive structure. So you can’t just put an implant under skin. You have to, again, re-support all the lateral anatomy, the folds, the cleavage area, and then you have to size the patient for the correct implant to be used in surgery.

REFERENCES:

Uncovering the Secrets Behind Breast Augmentation Incisions

Key Takeaways:

  1. Breast augmentation incisions come with different advantages and disadvantages, and must be carefully considered.
  2. Plastic surgeons must understand what the patient’s desired results are in order to make an appropriate recommendation for the best incision.
  3. Board-certified plastic surgeons from Politis Plastic Surgery can assist patients in selecting the best incision and ensuring they receive safe, effective, and natural-looking results.

Breast augmentation is a type of plastic surgery performed to enhance the size and shape of one’s breasts. Generally, the procedure is utilized to improve self-image and self-confidence. During the procedure, a plastic surgeon will insert breast implants and choose where to make the incision. Breast augmentation incisions are typically made beneath the breast, around the areola, in the armpit, or through the navel. Although, different incisions may present different sets of advantages and disadvantages, they all may cause the same amount of pain and discomfort. Knowing the differences between each incision is important when determining the best option for surgical results.

Types of Incisions

Inframammary incision: An inframammary incision is made beneath the breast, usually along the crease of the inframammary fold. This type of incision is most commonly used for many different surgical procedures, as it gives the plastic surgeon great access. Additionally, scarring can be minimized and the incision can be placed in a camouflaged location.

Advantages: Can be easily hidden beneath the breast crease, can access the implant pocket with ease, and the effectiveness of the incision is quite high

Disadvantages: The risk of infection is increased due to how close the incision is to the breast tissue, and some patients may experience numbness in the breast for up to a year.

Periareolar incision: A periareolar incision is made around the nipple and is considered one of the most subtle breast augmentation incisions. This type of incision is common among patients that want a natural-looking result.

Advantages: One of the most minimally invasive incisions, scarring can be blended with the surrounding skin, and hides the implant well

Disadvantages: Positioning of the implant is limited, can cause disruption of the milk ducts, and leads to a greater risk of infection during the healing process.

Transaxillary incision: A transaxillary incision is made in the armpit, placing the implant behind the muscle via the armpit. This incision is good for avoiding visible scarring.

Advantages: It leaves virtually no scarring, as the incision will be concealed in the armpit, allows for very precise control of the implant placement, and is minimally invasive

Disadvantages: The chances for infection remain fairly high, there is an increased risk of capsular contracture, and the distance from the incision to the implant means it requires more skill from the surgeon.

Transumbilical (TUBA) incision: A transumbilical incision is made through the navel, using an endoscope to help with positioning of the implant.

Advantages: No scarring, because the incision is made through the navel, no cutting into the breast, and is minimally invasive

Disadvantages: Limited access, can be difficult to treat in case of implant deflation or rupture, and increased risk of infection due to the length of the incision.

Summary

Each of these incisions offer different advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to speak with a board-certified plastic surgeon to decide which one is best for you. During the consultation, a patient should outline the desired results, which will enable the plastic surgeon to make a recommendation for the best incision for their particular needs.

In conclusion, breast augmentation incisions come with different advantages and disadvantages, and it is necessary to inform yourself about their characteristics. This can be done through consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon, who should provide guidance when selecting the incision type.

At Politis Plastic Surgery, our skilled and experienced plastic surgeons understand the importance of selecting the right incision for your breast augmentation. Our team of experts is committed to providing our patients with the safest, most effective treatments and procedures, resulting in natural-looking and beautiful results. To get started on your journey towards a rejuvenated, confident you, contact us today.

References:

What to Expect at Your Plastic Surgery Consultation

Key Takeaways:

  1. A consultation before plastic surgery is essential for assessing the patient’s health and suitability for the procedure as well as discussing goals and expectations.
  2. The surgeon should be transparent about the risks and benefits of the procedure and work with the patient to create realistic goals and expectations.
  3. Politis Plastic Surgery offers a range of reconstructive and plastic surgery options with a focus on safety and achieving natural-looking results.

In this video, Jamie Hill of Politis Plastic Surgery emphasizes the importance of a consultation before deciding to have plastic surgery. The consultation provides an opportunity to have a conversation about the patient’s goals and expectations, as well as to assess whether those goals are realistic and safe for the patient’s body. The surgeon will also review the patient’s health history and medications, as well as any previous procedures, to ensure that the patient is a good candidate for the proposed surgery.

During the consultation, the surgeon will take photographs of the patient and use them for procedure planning. This allows the surgeon to show the patient where the incision will be made and to provide visual examples of the expected result based on similar procedures done on other patients.

The importance of a consultation cannot be overstated when it comes to plastic surgery. Patients must understand the risks associated with any surgical procedure, and they must have realistic expectations for the outcome. It is also crucial to ensure that the patient is physically healthy enough to undergo surgery and that the procedure is appropriate for their body type.

Another important aspect of the consultation is discussing the various options available for achieving the patient’s goals. Plastic surgery is not a one-size-fits-all solution, and there are many different procedures and techniques available to achieve different results. The surgeon should take the time to explain these options and help the patient choose the best course of action based on their goals, body type, and medical history.

Ultimately, the consultation is a collaborative process between the patient and the surgeon. It is important for the patient to ask questions, voice any concerns, and be honest about their goals and expectations. The surgeon should be transparent about the risks and benefits of the procedure, and should work with the patient to ensure that their expectations are realistic and achievable.

In conclusion, a consultation is an essential step in the plastic surgery process. It allows the patient and surgeon to have a thorough discussion about the goals and expectations of the surgery, as well as to assess the patient’s physical health and suitability for the procedure. By taking the time to discuss all available options and create a personalized treatment plan, the surgeon can ensure that the patient achieves the best possible results with minimal risk. Patients should feel comfortable asking questions and expressing their concerns during the consultation, and should work with their surgeon to create realistic goals and expectations for the procedure.

Politis Plastic Surgery, located in Tampa, FL, offers a range of reconstructive and plastic surgery options for patients seeking to enhance their appearance or address medical concerns. Led by board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Effie Politis, the team at Politis Plastic Surgery is dedicated to providing exceptional care and personalized treatment plans for each patient. With a focus on safety and achieving natural-looking results, Politis Plastic Surgery utilizes the latest surgical techniques and technology to ensure the best possible outcome for every patient. Contact Politis Plastic Surgery to schedule a consultation and begin your journey towards a happier, more confident you.

TRANSCRIPTION:

Consultations are absolutely recommended and needed before you decide to have surgery. When you come in and consult with us, it gives us the opportunity to really have a conversation with what you are looking for, goals and expectations, you know, is it realistic, is it something we can do for you, is it safe for your body, will it fit your body habitus. So we take that opportunity to

look at your health history, what kind of medications are you on, what procedures have

you had done in the past, and then, you know, what are you looking to do and we can kind of

meld those things together and make sure what your best options are to make that happen. We

use that opportunity to take photographs, we use that to do procedure planning so that we can

really draw on that photograph and show you this is where your incision would be, we can show you pictures of people who have had similar procedures so that you can really have an idea of what your expectation of a result would be.

References:

Standard BBL vs Nonsurgical Mini BBL

Key Takeaways: 

  1. Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) is a popular cosmetic procedure that increases the fullness, roundness, and projection of the buttocks, creating superb feminine curves. 
  2. It can be done with a Standard Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) which is a fat transfer procedure or with a Non-surgical Mini BBL which is a more subtle, non-invasive procedure. 
  3. Politis Plastic Surgery offers personalized BBL that is tailored to the individual and can be done either with surgery or non-surgically with injectable dermal fillers.

Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) is a popular cosmetic procedure that increases the fullness, roundness, and projection of the buttocks, creating superb feminine curves. It silhouettes the hips to a perfectly feminine shape and makes the buttocks perkier and more attractive.

At Politis Plastic Surgery, we offer personalized BBL to help you achieve your desired butt size and shape, feel more comfortable in your clothing, and more confident in your appearance. And we do so with the least discomfort, minimal recovery time, and maximum results.

The benefits of getting a butt lift include:

  1. It is a perfect remedy for flat, sagging, or uneven butt.
  2. It creates superb curves.
  3. It delivers a more youthful and attractive look.
  4. It produces a more balanced, proportionate look.
  5. It reduces fat in other body areas when liposuction is part of the procedure.

Standard BBL vs. Non-Surgical Mini BBL

There are two broad options for enhancing the buttocks through the Brazilian Butt Lift: Standard Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) and non-surgical mini Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL).

With the standard BBL, you undergo a simple, minimally-invasive surgery that involves fat transfer to augment the buttocks and achieve results that last years or even decades. But with the non-surgical mini BBL, you go through a more subtle, non-invasive procedure.

So how do the two options compare?

  1. Standard Brazilian Butt Lift

A Standard Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) is a fat transfer procedure where fat harvested by liposuction from an area of the body with excess fat is processed for purity then injected into the butt. It is an alternative to implant-based butt augmentation, which increases butt size using silicone implants.

Standard BBL uses fat from the love handles, waist, back, hips, or thighs. Once harvested, the fat is centrifuged and filtered to separate it from blood and other non-fat materials. The processed fat cells are kept in syringes and then carefully injected at various levels into the buttocks.

Like with other fat transfer procedures, not all the injected fat cells survive. But the ones that survive produce a permanent result, creating a rounder, more voluptuous bottom. Plus, it has the added advantage of making the area where fat is obtained slimmer, tighter, and well-toned.

There will be some pain and recovery time involved after a standard BBL. Even so, the pain is easily managed using pain medication. As for the recovery time, you’ll need at least 10-14 days off work. Adequate recovery time is critical for lasting results. Follow the simple instructions your plastic surgeon will give you regarding what to do and what to avoid after the procedure.

Results of the standard BBL are apparent as soon as swelling, bruising, and soreness are gone. But it usually takes 3-6 months for the full results to set in and be fully visible. And if you maintain a healthy lifestyle, your buttocks will remain as shapely as ever for at least 10 years.

  1. Non-surgical Mini Brazilian Butt Lift

Non-surgical Brazilian Butt Lift is a cosmetic treatment that enhances buttock shape and size through injectable dermal fillers. It is a subtle lift that does not create more dramatic changes, but it can produce a more rounded, lifted, attractive butt.

In performing non-surgical butt enhancement, there are several safe and effective options.

Some of the most common options are:

  1. Sculptra

This dermal filler is one of the most effective in creating immediate, striking, and long-term results. The FDA-approved, injectable poly-L-lactic acid filler works by stimulating natural collagen production deep within skin layers, resulting in plump and firm buttocks.

A non-surgical mini BBL with Sculptra is completed as an outpatient procedure that takes one hour or less to perform. However, you may need several appointments to achieve your desired butt size. Once the treatments are completed, the results last up to 3 years.

  1. SculpSure

SculpSure is a proprietary device used to remove volume from areas you don’t want it to be, which in turn maximizes volume in areas you want it to be. The non-invasive body contouring butt lift procedure is done in a series of 25-minute treatments with results evident after 6-12 weeks.

  1. Radiesse

The use of Radiesse dermal filler is a rapid and effective sculpting procedure that reduces cellulite while increasing butt volume. It is performed in treatments spaced out every 4 weeks. Results are seen after the first 2 treatments and are long-lasting, seen for up to 5 years. As opposed to SculpSure, it does not reduce fatty deposits.

  1. Renuva and EZGEL

Renuva and EZGEL non-surgical mini BBL blends two different dermal fillers to achieve desired curvier buttocks. Both Renuva and EZGEL contain crucial growth factors that restore lost butt volume and enhance skin quality.

EZGEL is made by obtaining and spinning your own blood. Renuva is a product that contains collagen, growth factors, and proteins found in body fat. When the two are combined, they work together to create a more voluminous bottom while improving skin texture and tone.

  1. Vacuum therapy

Vacuum therapy is the suctioning of skin and fat from the buttocks in order to achieve desired volume and shape. The therapy involves the use of suctioning and ultrasound waves to break down fatty deposits, increase blood flow, and stimulate elastin and collagen production. The result is a firmer, rounder butt with less cellulite.

Standard BBL vs. Non-surgical Mini BBL: Which one is right for you?

None of the options suits everyone. While a standard BBL may be ideal for one person, non-surgical mini BBL may be perfect for another person.

For example, a standard Brazilian Butt Lift is ideal if you have a significant amount of sagging that needs surgery to remove the excess loose skin. It is also appropriate if you are looking for more dramatic results, want a significant increase in buttock size, or want results that last more than 5 years.

In contrast, non-surgical mini BBL is right for you if you don’t want to undergo surgery or if you don’t have sufficient fat required for a standard BBL.

At Politis Plastic Surgery, we treat you as a unique individual. So before you make the decision regarding the type of BBL to undergo, we encourage you to come for an in-person consultation.

During the consultation session, Dr. Effie Politis will explain the options and help you make the choice depending on the degree to which you want to enhance your buttocks. She has a reputation for excellence, unmatched surgical skills, and remarkable warmth, compassion, and dedication.

If you’re ready to enhance your buttocks and want treatment that will produce the results you expect, whether by standard BBL or non-surgical BBL, book your consultation today.

For more information on Brazilian butt lift, visit the site “Politis Plastic Surgery.”

References:

What is Forever Young BBL?

Key Takeaways: 

  1. Forever Young BBL is a non-surgical, laser therapy that can be used to address signs of skin aging, such as wrinkles and fine lines, and pigmentation issues like age spots and melasma. 
  2. The laser energy penetrates deep into the skin, stimulating the body to naturally regenerate healthy, new skin. 
  3. It is a fast, easy, and natural treatment with no needles or knives that delivers immediate and long-lasting results, with no downtime required.”

As your skin changes with age, it becomes thinner, loses fat, and becomes dry, rough, and itchy. It also loses elastin and collagen, becomes slack, and hangs loosely. Plus, it becomes more fragile, easily bruised, and prone to skin lesions, age spots, wrinkles, and fine lines.

Are you struggling with signs of aging skin and would like to restore a clearer, smoother skin complexion in a natural, non-surgical way?

If so, then Forever Young BBL is a perfect option for you.

What is Forever Young BBL?

It is an innovative, non-surgical rejuvenation procedure that uses the Sciton Joule BroadBand Light (BBL) System to deliver laser therapy. The laser energy penetrates deep into the skin surface, where it changes the expression of genes linked to aging and stimulates the body to naturally regenerate healthy, new skin.

Forever Young BroadBand Light (BBL) has the double benefit of stimulating the skin’s ability to reverse existing damage and to prevent occurrence of new damage. The procedure can be used to revive skin of the face, chest, neck, arms, back of the hands, and other parts of the body. It addresses some of the most common patient skin concerns, such as sagging skin, wrinkles, and fine lines.

How does Forever Young BBL work?

Forever Young BroadBand Light (BBL) produces and directs mild light energy to the upper layers of the skin. The laser energy is absorbed by skin cells, which are in turn stimulated to produce new collagen and elastin fibers.

With more collagen and elastin being produced, the natural beauty of the skin is restored, making the skin appear naturally toned, even, and smooth, glowing, and rejuvenated.

Also, the photo-thermal energy eliminates fine blood vessels responsible for redness, and reduces excess melanin that causes pigmentation changes and discoloration.

During the procedure, your eyes are protected with special glasses or shields. Then, laser energy from the machine is directed to the treated areas of the face. You’ll feel some warmth or a slight burning sensation as the light is absorbed by the skin. The procedure takes 30-45 minutes, depending on the treatment area. Local anesthesia is not necessary, but anesthetic cream may need to be applied on the more sensitive areas.

What are the benefits of Forever Young BBL?

  1. It is a fast, easy, non-invasive procedure that uses the power of light to penetrate layers of the skin and destroy damaged or unwanted cells—no needles or knives.
  2. It gives immediate and dramatic results that last 10 years or longer.
  3. It is a natural, chemical-free treatment that stimulates the skin to protect and heal itself without drugs and chemicals.
  4. It triggers production of elastin and collagen, which restore skin structure, strength, and resilience, and brings back natural plumpness and tightness.
  5. It stimulates skin cell renewal, which in turn rejuvenates the skin, brightens tone, shrinks pores, and smoothes out wrinkles.
  6. It eradicates pigmentation problems by targeting and heating the source to the point of destruction, removing age spots, dark patches, rosy cheeks, freckles, redness, broken blood vessels, and melasma.
  7. It rids the skin of acne by neutralizing bacteria, clearing out pores, and controlling oil production.
  8. It permanently eliminates unwanted hair by destroying the follicles under the skin.
  9. It requires no anesthesia and has no downtime—only mild redness and dark spots may occur, which clear within a couple of days.
  10. It is an excellent preventive therapy that delays the signs of aging.

What can you expect after your Forever Young BBL treatment?

After treatment, you leave your doctor’s office with a mild red, flushed appearance, which goes away within a few hours. In the case of a highly pigmented skin, the treated pigmented areas may appear darker, but will brighten, fade, and flake off within 1-2 weeks.

You should be able to return to work, apply makeup, and resume your routine immediately after the procedure. Also, because your skin will be more sensitive to ultraviolet light, avoid direct exposure to the sun until the skin heals. Use sunscreen whenever you are outdoors.

At Politis Plastic Surgery, we have a full line of treatments to help you achieve a more youthful appearance. We offer the Forever Young BroadBand Laser (BBL) treatment to address several facial concerns at once and deliver significant age-defying results and a clearer, more even complexion.

What is ERAS Protocol?

ERAS stands for Enhanced Recovery After Surgery.  

An ERAS protocol refers to a series of pathways designed to be followed to ensure improved patient experience before, during, and after surgery.  They are a bundle of evidence-based interventions that ensure more rapid surgical recovery, shorter length of hospital stay, greater patient satisfaction, and reduced cost of both open and minimally invasive surgeries.

In the last 10 years, ERAS has become increasingly popular in different surgical specialties as a means of ensuring faster recovery and reducing complication rates following surgical procedures.

The key elements of ERAS are patient education, patient optimization before admission, minimal fasting before anesthesia, multi-modal analgesia with the right use of opioids when indicated, return home soon after the procedure, and return to normal diet and activities usually the day after surgery.

At Politis Plastic Surgery, we have made efforts to incorporate the tenets of ERAS in our reconstructive and aesthetic surgery operations during the last 5 years. And with  increased implementation, we have been able to achieve faster recoveries, minimized post-surgical pain, and a speedier return to day-to-day life.

How does the ERAS protocol work?

With the ERAS protocol, the medical team works together with you before surgery to learn about your medical history and pain tolerance. This enables the medical team to create a surgical care plan that includes strategies to minimize pain after surgery, speed up recovery, and reduce narcotic usage. 

By design, the ERAS interventions help to reduce negative experiences related to surgery. It includes a multi-modal approach to treatment of post-operative nausea and vomiting and to pain management. 

For instance, as a patient, you may be given a scopolamine patch prior to surgery to prevent nausea and vomiting. Then once under anesthesia, you are given additional medications through IV for enhanced management of nausea, including steroids and anti-nausea medications.

Pain management is approached in a similar manner. For example, you may be started with Tylenol (an anti-inflammatory drug), together with a neuro-modulator, before the surgery. Then while already under anesthesia, a long-acting local anesthetic may be given to help numb the surgical area. 

And so, by beginning anti-nausea and vomiting medication before surgery, these negative reactions are prevented. 

Also, by administering pain medication before surgery, there is reduced body response to pain and less need for anesthesia and narcotics after surgery. 

Therefore, when used, ERAS almost always results in less post-operative pain, nausea, and vomiting.  

It results in faster recoveries, though recoveries still depend on the type of procedure a patient undergoes. 

How is the ERAS protocol applied before surgery?

As part of ERAS protocol prior to surgery, the surgeon works with an anesthesiologist to determine and set the expectation of pain. 

Since not all patients experience pain in the same manner, setting pain expectations through pre-operative assessment of the patient helps to tell how much pain the patient will experience and how to minimize it.

According to ERAS principles, the surgeon has to discuss with you how you generally tolerate pain, how you recovered from previous surgeries, and how you see yourself recovering from the impending operation.  This helps the team to set your pain expectations. Then, after setting your pain expectations, the medical team will provide you with a blend of non-opioid medications that target how your nerves function. 

A critical part of ERAS before surgery is educating you about what to expect and how to prepare. That’s because educating and preparing you for surgery reduces fear and apprehension. 

 It also helps to optimize your diet and exercise routine, to stop smoking for at least 1 month before surgery, reach a BMI of less than 30, and abstain from alcohol.All of these  are steps that reduce the risk of complications after surgery.

How is the ERAS protocol applied during and after surgery?

As part of ERAS protocols, you are provided with medications to reduce nausea and vomiting during surgery. 

A local anesthesia and a pain-relieving technique are applied to numb the area where the procedure is performed. The result is a blockage of nerves associated with the area from activating, which results in minimal discomfort during surgery.

After surgery, you will receive medications similar to the ones used before surgery to control pain. The drugs continue to keep the nerves associated with the surgical site from firing strongly. 

Nevertheless, since pain tolerance differs from one person to another, there will be a need for continuous communication between you and your plastic surgeon regarding the pain. 

Be sure to speak with your doctor when you have concerns and make sure to attend follow-up appointments.

ERAS protocols and the management of pain

One of the key pillars of ERAS is eliminating opioid medications in pain management—due to increased deaths caused by opioid overdosing. So plastic surgeons that follow the protocol avoid prescribing opioids to patients unless it is entirely necessary based on pre-operative assessment, pain expectation, and pain tolerance. Surgeons use alternatives to opioids, such as local anesthesia and non-narcotic medication. 

In case you decide that it is necessary to take opioid medication for pain tolerance after plastic surgery, your plastic surgeon will inform you of the possible side effects and the appropriate dosage you should take. It is advisable that you speak with your doctor about anything you are not sure regarding prescribed pain medications.

Safe, quick-recovery plastic surgery

While pain is part of any plastic surgery procedure, the ERAS protocol helps to significantly reduce the amount of pain experienced.  

At Politis Plastic Surgery, we follow the ERAS principles to develop effective pain management plans and minimize complications related to surgery. We have embedded the ERAS protocol as a standard model of care in our practice.  

We continuously refine our interventions and measure our outcomes to ensure we achieve the highest standards of care. We are proud that the protocol has helped us achieve more rapid surgical recovery, shorter hospital stays, enhanced patient satisfaction, and reduced costs of care. 

For more information on plastic and reconstructive surgery procedures, contact us.

The Benefits of Combining Facial Rejuvenation Procedures

Facial cosmetic surgery: Benefits of having more than one procedure at the same time

Having more than one facial cosmetic surgery at the same time is not only convenient but for many increases overall satisfaction and improves results. 

Combining two or more procedures guarantees all the problematic issues are addressed simultaneously. There will be fewer issues left unresolved, which delivers a better outcome. 

 What are the benefits of combining facial rejuvenation procedures?

  1. Delivers more transformative results

Combining facial rejuvenation procedures addresses multiple areas of the face and neck produces more dramatic results. 

For example, when a facelift is blended with an eyelid or brow lift, the surgery can produce a more balanced and proportional face. In this combined procedure, the facelift treats the lower and middle regions of the neck and face, while the eyelid surgery or brow lift procedure rejuvenates the eyes. 

Another example is combining chin augmentation with rhinoplasty to balance the proportions of the chin and nose. Since the nose is usually a primary area of focus on the face, having it in proportion with the chin ensures a more attractive, aesthetically-pleasing face. 

In this combined procedure,  rhinoplasty is the more complex part.  It needs to be performed in a safe manner and  must also be done to address both its cosmetic and functional aspects.  When done by a doctor who has perfected the techniques and steps involved and by using general anesthesia, it delivers amazing results and comes with the shortest and most comfortable recovery process. 

With chin augmentation synthetic implant or dermal fillers are used. There are multiple shapes and sizes of chin implants, allowing plastic surgeons to match the augmented chin to the operated nose, delivering  more elegant results.

  1. Comprehensive anti-aging remedy

When struggling with aging, a blend of surgical procedures can help address both minor and advanced signs of aging, such as deep creases, jowl formation, and hollowing in the mid-face. Though a single procedure can be effective, combining procedures gives even better results. 

For instance, combining a facelift with facial fat grafting restores youthful volume in the mid-face and other key locations.  It also removes redundant skin to create a more vibrant, youthful-looking face. 

Combined with fat grafting, it can make the results of a facelift last longer while producing  firmer skin. 

Another combination is using laser technology alongside Botox to produce comprehensive anti-aging results in a single treatment session. 

A laser technology, such as CoolPeel or CO2 laser resurfacing, can be used to address fine lines, facial wrinkles, enlarged pores, irregular skin texture, brown spots, mild skin laxity, and other pigmentation irregularities.

Botox injected as a neuro-modulator can help  minimize dynamic wrinkles that usually appear around the eyes and on the forehead. By relaxing the facial muscles, Botox helps to smooth out wrinkles. 

The laser and Botox combination can be done without anesthesia or downtime and with results that are fully evident within about one week. Of course, the laser component of the treatment may require sessions spaced across 4 weeks apart to ensure the best possible results.

  1. Eliminates a wide range of irregularities at once

For patients who desire to accentuate a firmer facial appearance with full skin rejuvenation, a combination of procedures can help create  smooth, radiant skin.

 A combination of a facelift with a chemical peel can help eliminate facial irregularities and boost appearance. 

A chemical peel is a wonderful addition as it helps fully exfoliate the skin   for optimal rejuvenation. 

And because the patient is already asleep for the facelift, a deep chemical peel can be comfortably performed to eliminate lines and wrinkles, pigmentation irregularities, uneven skin texture, and tone. 

With a chemical peel, such as trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peel, applied alongside a surgical facelift, the deep peel would help to remove the outer layers of the skin in order to reveal the smoother, softer skin beneath. 

About one week of flaking and peeling follows the treatment before a dramatic improvement of the overall skin is achieved. 

  1. A single recovery time and less downtime

With combined facial cosmetic surgery, only a block of time is needed for consultation and recovery instead of having to schedule multiple surgeries with different recovery periods. This allows a patient to undergo one surgery and recover from all the procedures simultaneously. 

Of course, the single recovery period may be a little longer than needed to recover from a single procedure, but ultimately the recovery period is much shorter than when you undergo each procedure and its recovery period separately.

  1. Saves money and reduces complications

When multiple cosmetic surgery procedures are combined there are reduced financial implications, including saving money on repeat consultation sessions, operating room costs, and expenses related to anesthesia. 

Combining the procedures means many fees are paid only once, saving money in the process.

, When implemented as a single surgery with a single round of anesthesia, there are reduced risks of infection and adverse reactions to anesthesia.

Safe, effective facial cosmetic surgery

At Politis Plastic Surgery, we offer a wide range of cosmetic enhancements to help you look your best at  every stage of your life. With our array of choices, including surgical, nonsurgical, and many aesthetic enhancements, and our ability to combine them efficiently and effectively, we are able to deliver natural, beautiful results for our patients. 

Schedule your consultation today to find out how we can tailor a safe and effective combined cosmetic surgery treatment plan for you.

Should I Remove or Replace Breast Implants?

As a woman, your breasts are an integral part of your overall appearance. And whether they are small or large, perky or not, their appearance can cause a feeling that impacts all areas of your life. 

Plus, the psychological fallout that follows when you’re dissatisfied with the way your breasts look can be devastating for some women, including a nose dive in confidence, loss of self-esteem and feeling unattractive.

Fortunately, through breast augmentation using breast implants you can:

  1. Make your breasts larger, fuller, perkier, and higher on your chest, achieving an enhanced, more youthful appearance.
  2. Correct asymmetry and eliminate embarrassing difference in size between your breasts.
  3. Enjoy psychological and lifestyle benefits, including a renewed freedom in shopping for clothes, enhanced capacity to embrace new opportunities and engage in relationships, and an overall feeling of being more attractive, more confident, sexier and happier overall.

How long do breast implants last?

While breast implants can help restore feminine curves and boost self-image, they don’t last a lifetime. 

Generally, the lifespan of breast implants—whether saline or silicone—is 10-20 years after initial augmentation surgery.  But since every patient heals and responds differently to surgery, the actual life of your implants would depend on your body and how well you take care of them.

Before surgery, your plastic surgeon will explain to you how to care for the implants and the necessary check ups you should undergo to ensure they last longer. Nonetheless, no matter how well you care for them, you should still understand that the implants will need to be removed or replaced at some point.

What are the common reasons for implant removal or replacement?

  1. Capsular contracture

Sometimes, no matter how skilled and experienced your plastic surgeon is, complications still arise after surgery due to the unique healing process that every patient undergoes. Capsular contracture—the development of a thick and hard scar tissue around one or both implants—is one such potential complication.

When you have unusually hard capsules of scar tissue around the implants after surgery, you will have aesthetic problems and, in extreme cases, pain in the breasts. So in rare instances you may need to undergo revision surgery to remove or replace the implants, particularly if the scar tissue causes tightness, pain, tenderness and changes in breast size and shape.

  1. Implant rippling

Breast implant rippling refers to formation of wrinkles and folds around an implant. When the folds and wrinkles are extreme, they become noticeable on the skin and may require revision surgery to correct. Causes of rippling include poor tissue coverage of the implants, scar capsules that are too loose, under-filled or overfilled saline implants, or round-shaped implants.

Rippling may arise after breast reconstruction with saline or silicone implants and tends to develop on the outer perimeter (side, bottom, near cleavage) of the reconstructed breasts. It is also associated more with saline-filled implants than with silicone implants.

When the rippling is visible on the skin, your surgeon may recommend revision surgery. The revision options your surgeon may consider include an operation to replace an undersized implant, tighten the scar capsule, replace saline implant with silicone implant, reposition the implant, change shape of the implant, or remove under-filled or over-filled implants.

  1. Saline or silicone implant rupture

New saline and silicone implants rarely rupture. 

But in older models it can sometimes happen so in those instances saline implants may deflate quickly like balloons. The saline solution then leaks out through the tear and is absorbed harmlessly into the body. In turn, breasts lose size and shape, and look different. Though the risk of saline rapture is rare, it increases by 1-percent every year after the surgery.

Silicone gel-filled implants have a thick silicone gel inside that stays either inside the implant or surrounding tissue even after implant rupture. So it is difficult to notice when a silicone implant ruptures; except that the breasts show uneven appearance and have changes in breast sensation, such as swelling, tingling, numbness, or burning.

When a saline or silicone gel-filled implant has ruptured, your plastic surgeon may recommend surgical removal or replacement. In some cases, your surgeon will also remove the capsule of scar tissue surrounding the implant or just remove the capsule by making small incisions. Typically, implants in both breasts are removed even if only one has ruptured, then replaced during the same surgery.

  1. Positional change

Implant malposition is one of the common reasons for revisionary breast surgery. Generally, breast implant malposition is caused by the implant pocket being too large for a given implant, resulting in the implant not being centered inside the breast. 

To correct implant malposition, your surgeon can opt to perform revision surgery to replace the implant, and then follow that with a precise suturing of the pockets from the inside of the breasts to have the implants properly fitted. Plus, the doctor may switch the implant pocket location or add a lifting procedure to create the desired breast appearance.

  1. Personal desire to change breast appearance

Tastes and preferences are never constant and tend to change with time. So some years after your breast augmentation, you may feel that you need to change the appearance of your breasts or to remove them entirely.

Your plastic surgeon will listen to you, carefully assess your goals and expectations, and guide you on making an informed decision. Then, the surgeon may recommend that you undergo revision surgery to replace the implants with larger or smaller implants, or to remove them entirely based on your lifestyle and aesthetic priorities.

What should you expect during breast implant removal?

Since your implant can be removed or replaced by any qualified plastic surgeon, you won’t necessarily have to go to the surgeon who did the first surgery.  During your consultation session with the surgeon, the implant will be evaluated and your surgical options explored. 

Depending on the problem with the implant and on your preferences, the surgeon will:

  1. Do implant removal alone.
  2. Remove the implant and perform a breast lift.
  3. Remove lumpy or hardened tissue

Since implant removal can lead to cosmetic abnormalities, such as sagging, dimpling, deflation, or asymmetry, your surgeon may recommend replacing the removed implants with those of a different shape or size.

What should you expect from breast implant replacement?

Implant replacement is the procedure in which your doctor replaces your problematic implants for newer implants. You may stick to the same type, size, and shape or go with different implants altogether.  

The replacement can be combined with a breast lift or with scar tissue removal. But usually, the cost of implant replacement is higher than that of implant removal as you will need to pay for the initial removal, replacement implants, and any other related procedures.

How do you care for your implants to make them last longer?

One of the best steps to take to ensure your implants last longer is to consider carefully and choose the right size and shape the first time. That’s because most cases of implant removal or replacement arise from unhappiness with implant size and shape.  

So pick breast implants of the size and shape you feel you can live with for 10-20 years—remember your tastes will change over the course of your lifetime. 

Speak with your plastic surgeon about your cosmetic goals and implant preferences, and request broad advice and recommendations. By being open with your plastic surgeon and following recommendations, you will make a better choice. 

Because implant removal or replacement may be necessary due to local complications, such as ruptures, deflations, wear and tear, or surgical error, you need to choose a skilled, experienced surgeon who performs the procedures regularly. A surgeon with experience in the removal or replacement is ideal.  

At Politis Plastic Surgery, we make sure that you are aware of the lifespan of implants and that they aren’t guaranteed to last a lifetime. In fact, during your consultation, our board-certified surgeon will explain to you what to expect from different types of implants and help you to choose the right implant. 

For more information on breast augmentation, breast reduction, breast lift, and other plastic surgery procedures, visit the site “Politis Plastic Surgery.”

What is circumferential body contouring?

Circumferential body contouring is a surgical procedure to remove excess loose skin, tissue, and subcutaneous fat in the abdomen, waist, and buttock area. During the procedure, a circumferential incision is made around the abdomen, extended to the sides, then into the lower back.


Through the incision, the surgeon removes excess skin and fat and repositions and tightens tissues. The result is a smoother, more youthful body contour, enhanced body shape and image, and a renewed sense of self-confidence.

Who is a candidate for the procedure?

Circumferential body contouring helps in reshaping a specific area of the body. It is often recommended after massive weight loss surgery, diet, or exercise to correct areas of loose skin on the arms, belly, flanks, neck, chin, thighs, or buttocks.

You are an ideal candidate for the procedure if

1. You have undergone bariatric surgery and have excess, loose skin.
2. You want to improve loose, saggy, or wrinkled skin due to natural aging.
3. You have experienced massive weight loss due to diet or exercise and want to remove surplus loose skin, fat, and tissues.
4. You have failed to reshape your body via diet and exercise.
5. You want to look and feel leaner or attain a certain body shape.
6. You want to achieve a smoother, younger skin appearance.

What happens before circumferential body contouring?

Before the procedure, your plastic surgeon will schedule a consultation session to listen to your specific concerns, your desired goals, and expectations. The doctor will also use the session to note your medical history, do a physical exam, run specific tests, answer your questions, and ascertain whether the procedure is right for you. Your surgeon will equally confirm that you are a healthy non-smoker with a stable weight, positive outlook, and realistic expectations.

More specifically, the plastic surgeon will:

1. Examine and measure the areas to be treated or reshaped.
2. Use a marker or pen to mark out the areas
3. Take pictures
4. Discuss with you options and recommendations
5. Develop a tailored surgery plan
6. Review surgical risks, discuss anesthesia, and explain post-operative pain control
7. Have you sign a consent form giving permission for the procedure, including consent for risks involved.
8. Explain post-operative instructions, the routine healing process, and follow-up care.

What happens during the procedure?

Circumferential body contouring is usually done inpatient, with the patient admitted for at least one night in the hospital. Only very minor contouring may be done on an outpatient basis but with a nurse going home with you to assist with post-operative care.

Typically, the surgery takes 4-6 hours to perform and goes on under general anesthesia. The surgeon will make a circumferential incision around your abdomen, stretch it around the sides, and then into your lower back. Through the incision, the surgeon repositions and tightens tissues, and removes excess skin and fat.
Sometimes, there is a need for extensive incisions and to combine the procedure with liposuction, particularly if you have so much excess fat. Your surgeon will explain this to you before the procedure.
To complete the procedure, your surgeon will use deep sutures within the underlying tissue to help create the newly shaped contours. After that, the doctor places multiple drains to remove any small amounts of fluid that may build in the treated area. The drains are then left in place for 7-10 days after surgery.

What happens after circumferential body contouring?

After the surgery, you’ll have to wear an abdominal binder for 12 hours a day to reduce swelling and support the new contours. You should avoid standing fully or upright so that internal sutures do not bend and stress as they heal—sleeping on pillows to elevate your knees is advisable during the first few days after the procedure.

Returning to light walking as soon as possible is recommended as a way to minimize potential blood clots and other complications. Numbness and a feeling of firmness over the skin surface will resolve over time, but you’ll have to wait for 2 weeks before returning to work and 6-8 weeks to resume vigorous exercise.
Follow your surgeon’s instructions on caring for the treated area. If you experience any pain or swelling, contact your doctor immediately for help. It will take up to a year for incision lines to refine and fade, but they will not be a problem as they’ll be hidden by your clothing and swimsuit.

At Politis Plastic Surgery, we offer circumferential body contouring procedure that produces results that are visible almost immediately. However, we encourage patience as it may take several months for the final results to fully develop. These results are long-lasting, provided a stable weight and general fitness is maintained.

For more information on circumferential body contouring and other plastic surgery procedures, book for a consultation with us today.

7 Benefits of PRF Treatment

Aging can cause a variety of cosmetic problems. Your skin can become tougher, slacker, and more fragile. You may also lose fat below the skin, nose, cheeks, temples, and eyes, resulting in a sunken look and a ‘skeletal’ appearance.

There are many ways you can restore your natural, youthful appearance. While surgery and other invasive procedures are effective in correcting cosmetic problems related to aging, they are often associated with pain, bruising, and a longer downtime.

So what is the alternative?

Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) Treatment is one of the safest and most effective natural alternatives to surgery and other invasive procedures. It uses components of your blood to trigger protein growth, which in turn enhances skin appearance.

With PRF, blood is drawn from your body and is spun in a centrifuge at a low speed to enable platelets to be trapped in a fibrin matrix. The platelet-rich plasma is separated, collected in a vial, and used without additives and anticoagulants.

When injected into targeted areas during treatment, the PRF causes increased production of growth factors, collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid. As a result, the treatment promotes wound healing, enhances skin texture, and resolves various cosmetic problems, such as acne scars, hair loss, and aging skin.

What are the benefits of PRF treatment?

1. Enhances collagen production

With advancing age, the production of collagen slows down in your body. This could result in dry, sagging skin. Injection of PRF can stimulate collagen production and help to revitalize your skin.

2. Eliminates wrinkles and facial folds

PRF delivers a high concentration of platelets and fibrin to affected areas. This causes natural tissue regeneration and healing, which helps to eliminate wrinkles, fine lines, and facial folds.

3. Treats under-eye loose skin and dark circles

Since the area around your eyes has the thinnest and most sensitive skin, it is usually the most commonly affected by wrinkles, dark circles, and slackness. When PRF is injected, it fills up under-eye hollows and reduces visibility of wrinkles and fine lines.

4. Boosts skin texture and treats acne scars

PRF treatment increases skin moisture level, enhances elastin production, promotes blood flow, and protects the skin against sun damage. Hence, it helps to revive skin complexion, refine skin tone, and reduce scar appearance. Plus, it helps to achieve a younger, smoother skin.

5. Promotes hair growth and vitality

Alopecia and other hair loss or hair thinning conditions tend to be more common with advancing age. But with injection of PRF into the scalp, hair growth is enhanced while hair loss slows down.
No matter the cause of your hair problems, whether iron deficiency, metabolic issues or other conditions, PRF treatment can enhance your hair color, radiance, and vitality.

6. Improves overall facial appearance

PRF treatment stimulates production of proteins and growth factors that ensure an enhanced facial texture, volume and pigmentation of the face. So you can undergo the treatment to correct facial volume concerns and to achieve a fuller, healthier, and more vibrant face. The results of PRF treatment will last up to a year, depending on how your body responds to treatment.

7. Minimal risk of adverse effects

PRF is prepared from blood obtained from your body and injected into targeted areas. And so your body will not recognize it as a foreign material. When prepared and injected by skilled professionals, it will work marvelously without adverse effects.

Also, it consists majorly of platelets and fibrin and lacks anticoagulants and additives. This minimizes the possibility of adverse reactions. The only side effects it may produce include pain, soreness, swelling, and minor bruising. But these can be managed effectively using topical anesthetic and ice.

Reliable, effective cosmetic solutions

Do you have cosmetic issues that require prompt, safe and effective treatment? Would you like to speak with a plastic surgeon about various natural options for your cosmetic problems?

At Politis Plastic Surgery, we offer a variety of surgical and non-surgical treatments for a full spectrum of common cosmetic issues. We don’t merely offer the latest, most effective options, but also provide open, friendly consultation to help you make the right choices about your specific issues.

For more information on plastic surgery procedures and various cosmetic solutions, contact us today.