Understanding Facelift Risks

Key Takeaways:

  1. Facelifts can offer long-lasting results, but also come with risks such as infection, hematoma, nerve damage, and scarring.
  2. Factors such as age, smoking, pre-existing medical conditions, medications, and skin type can increase the likelihood of risks.
  3. To minimize risks and maximize the chances of a successful facelift, choose an experienced and certified plastic surgeon, follow pre- and post-surgery instructions, and be candid about your medical history.

As you peer into the mirror, searching for the face of your youth, the idea of a facelift might flutter into your thoughts. A facelift – medically known as rhytidectomy – is a cosmetic surgical procedure aimed at rejuvenating the facial appearance by reducing sagging skin and wrinkles. However, before you commit to going under the knife, it’s essential to understand the risks involved. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide through the benefits and risks of undergoing a facelift, and how to minimize those risks

Benefits of Facelift

Many have sung the praises of facelifts, marveling at the procedure’s ability to restore a youthful appearance to the face. A successful facelift can result in tightened skin, smoothed wrinkles, and an overall more refreshed look. This improved appearance can significantly boost self-confidence – after all, when you look good, you feel good. Furthermore, facelifts offer long-lasting results, with effects persisting for up to ten years

Risks of Facelift

But, as with any surgical procedure, a facelift comes with risks. Potential complications include infection, which can arise from bacteria entering the incisions. Hematoma, or blood pooling beneath the skin, is another risk that may require further surgery to alleviate the pressure. Nerve damage is also a possibility, which can lead to varying degrees of facial paralysis. Scarring is an inevitable consequence of surgery, but excessive or raised scars may not be the aesthetically desired result. Anesthesia complications, such as an allergic reaction, are rare but not unheard of. Lastly, there’s always the risk of unsatisfactory results, where the individual’s vision of post-op perfection doesn’t quite align with reality

Factors that Increase Risk

Several factors can increase the likelihood of experiencing these risks. Age, for example, can significantly impact the skin’s elasticity and healing capabilities. Smoking is another risk amplifier, as it impairs blood circulation and hinders the healing process. Pre-existing medical conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, can also affect the surgery and recovery. Medications, particularly blood thinners, can exacerbate the risk of complications. Your skin type, too, plays a role in your propensity for scarring. And, of course, the experience of your chosen plastic surgeon can make or break your facelift experience.

Prevention of Risks

To minimize these risks and maximize the chances of a successful facelift, take the following preventative steps. First, choose an experienced and certified plastic surgeon, such as Tampa, FL’s esteemed Dr. Effie Politis. Research the surgeon’s track record, certification, and reviews. Be candid about your medical history and disclose any conditions or medications that could impact the surgery. Prior to the procedure, follow your surgeon’s instructions for preparation, which may include adjusting medications or quitting smoking. Finally, adhere to post-surgery instructions regarding care and follow-up appointments

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the risks and benefits of facelifts is crucial for making an informed decision about whether the procedure is right for you. Taking preventative measures can help minimize these risks and improve the likelihood of a successful outcome.

Politis Plastic Surgery in Tampa, FL, led by the skilled Dr. Effie Politis, provides top-notch facelift services with attention to patient safety and satisfaction. Trust the expertise of Dr. Effie Politis, knowing that you are in the hands of a seasoned plastic surgeon committed to delivering the highest quality care. Schedule a consultation today to discuss your facelift goals and address any concerns you may have about the procedure. Rest assured that you’ll walk away with the knowledge and confidence to make the best possible decision for your face and overall wellbeing.

References:

A Transformative Journey: Implant Exchange and Mastopexy with an Internal Bra

Key Takeaways:

  • Dr. Effie Politis is a skilled plastic surgeon in Tampa, FL, specializing in breast augmentation, mastopexy, and other procedures that help patients feel like themselves again.
  • Implant exchange and mastopexy with an internal bra can provide significant, transformative results for patients seeking a change in their appearance.
  • Trusting an experienced professional like Dr. Effie Politis ensures personalized care and exceptional results on your plastic surgery journey.

Undergoing plastic surgery can be a life-changing experience, helping patients rediscover their self-confidence and feel like themselves again. At Politis Plastic Surgery, headed by Dr. Effie Politis, a renowned plastic surgeon in Tampa, FL, patients receive personalized care and exceptional results. One such example is a recent case involving an implant exchange and mastopexy using an internal bra.

The patient, a 63-year-old woman standing at 5’1″ and weighing 128 lbs, came to Dr. Politis seeking significant changes to her breasts. She had previously received saline implants of 300cc. Dr. Politis carefully assessed the patient’s needs and devised a plan to perform an implant exchange and mastopexy, utilizing an internal bra for added support and shape.

During the procedure, the old saline implants were replaced with Allergan Aesthetics full profile silicone soft touch gummy implants of 335cc. To provide an internal bra, Dr. Politis used GalaFLEX 3DR, a cutting-edge surgical scaffold that offers long-lasting support and helps maintain the shape of the breasts.

The results of the implant exchange and mastopexy with an internal bra were remarkable. The patient experienced a significant transformation, achieving the look she desired and regaining her sense of self. This case highlights the expertise and dedication of Dr. Effie Politis, who works tirelessly to ensure that her patients receive the best possible care and results.

If you’re considering breast augmentation, mastopexy, or other procedures, trust the skilled hands of Dr. Effie Politis, a top plastic surgeon in Tampa, FL. With her personalized approach and commitment to patient satisfaction, you can be confident that your journey will be transformative and rewarding.

References:

The Truth Behind Celebrity IV Therapy: NAD and Longevity

Key Takeaways:

  • NAD IV therapy has gained popularity as a potential means to increase lifespan, but it’s not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle that includes exercise, nutrition, sleep, and mental well-being.
  • Results from animal studies on NAD IV therapy have not yet been proven in humans, and the treatment can be expensive and time-consuming.
  • Consult with trusted professionals like Dr. Effie Politis, a leading plastic surgeon in Tampa, FL, to make informed decisions about your health and well-being.

 

 
 
 
 
 
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A post shared by Effie Politis, MD, FACS (@dreffiepolitis)

When celebrities like Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner endorse health trends like IV therapy, it’s no surprise that the public takes notice. As a leading plastic surgeon in Tampa, FL, Dr. Effie Politis is here to shed light on NAD IV therapy, a popular treatment among the Hollywood elite, and discuss whether it truly holds the key to a longer, healthier life.

celebrity iv therapyLongevity medicine is an emerging field that aims to help people not only live longer, but also improve their health span – the quality of life as they age. NAD (Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) IV therapy, which is a precursor to vitamin B3, has gained attention as a potential means of increasing lifespan. Animal studies have shown that NAD can help repair DNA, leading to increased longevity. However, it’s important to note that these results have not yet been proven in human models.

Dr. Politis emphasizes that while NAD IV therapy may show promise, it’s not a panacea. The treatment can be expensive, time-consuming, and most of the NAD is excreted through the gastrointestinal tract. Moreover, focusing on IV therapy without addressing other crucial aspects of health, such as nutrition, exercise, sleep, and mental well-being, is unlikely to yield significant benefits.

To illustrate this point, Dr. Politis shares a cautionary tale from Greek mythology about Typhonus, who asked for eternal life but not eternal youth. As a result, he continued to age and decay while living indefinitely. The lesson here is clear: the pursuit of a longer life should be balanced with efforts to maintain and improve overall health.

Instead of relying solely on expensive and unproven treatments like NAD IV therapy, Dr. Politis recommends prioritizing a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, balanced nutrition, adequate sleep, and mental health care. Only then should individuals consider exploring additional pharmacologic options to enhance their longevity and health span.

By seeking guidance from trusted professionals like Dr. Effie Politis, a renowned plastic surgeon in Tampa, FL, you can make informed decisions about your health and well-being. Remember, achieving a longer, healthier life is a multifaceted journey that requires a holistic approach, not just a quick-fix solution.

References:

What to Expect During a Lip Filler Procedure

Key Takeaways:

  1. Lip filler procedures involve injecting a filler into the lips to enhance their size or shape.
  2. Consultation with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon is the first step of the process.
  3. Aftercare is essential to ensure desired results, with potential side effects such as swelling or bruising.

What to Expect During a Lip Filler Procedure

what to expect during a lip filler procedureAs you gaze at your reflection in the mirror and wonder about the right enhancements to create the perfect pout that would make even the most stoic Greek gods blush, lip fillers may be your ideal solution. This trendy procedure has become a popular choice among beauty-seekers who wish to attain fuller, plumper lips that look naturally stunning. So, allow me to guide you through what to expect during a lip filler procedure, as well as introduce you to a renowned plastic surgeon in Tampa, FL, Dr. Effie Politis.

Introduction

The lip filler procedure involves injecting a filler into the lips in order to enhance their size or shape. You may be seeking a subtle change or a more dramatic transformation – lip fillers can cater to your desires. The main goals of this procedure are to increase lip volume, improve symmetry, and create a more youthful appearance. Many people find that lip fillers provide a confidence boost and rejuvenated facial aesthetics.

Consultation

The first essential step you must take is a consultation with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon. This meeting allows the surgeon to assess your needs and expectations, provide personalized recommendations, and discuss the various filler options and potential risks. It is crucial to choose a surgeon you trust and feel comfortable with, as they will be your ally in achieving your desired results.

Preparation

Preparing for your lip filler procedure is a vital part of the process. Your plastic surgeon will give you pre-procedure instructions, which may include avoiding certain medications or supplements, as well as refraining from smoking. When the day of the procedure arrives, a local anesthesia will be applied to minimize any discomfort. The surgeon will also prepare the injection sites by marking them and cleaning the area.

Procedure

The injection process is the core of the lip filler treatment. The carefully selected filler will be injected into designated areas of your lips, with the precision and skill of your surgeon ensuring an optimal outcome. Various types of fillers are available, each with their own characteristics and advantages. Some popular options include hyaluronic acid-based fillers, which provide a natural look and feel. The duration of the procedure is relatively short, usually lasting around 30 minutes to an hour.

Aftercare

Following your lip filler procedure, it is crucial to adhere to the post-procedure instructions provided by your surgeon. These instructions may cover aspects like avoiding certain activities or using specific medications. Recovery time is typically minimal, with many people resuming their daily routines within a day or two. As with any medical procedure, potential side effects may occur, such as swelling or bruising. Consult with your surgeon on how best to manage these side effects.

Results

The results of your lip filler procedure can often be seen immediately, with continued improvement over the following days as swelling subsides. Long-term results may vary, depending on factors such as the type of filler used and individual metabolic rates. Maintenance and follow-up appointments with your plastic surgeon are essential to ensure your lips continue to look and feel their best.

Conclusion

In summary, a lip filler procedure is a versatile and efficient way to enhance the appearance of your lips, providing both immediate and long-lasting results. If you are considering pursuing this treatment, I encourage you to embrace the excitement and potential transformations that await you.

For those in the Tampa, FL area, allow me to direct your attention to Politis Plastic Surgery, headed by the talented Dr. Effie Politis. With her impressive skillset and compassionate approach, you can feel confident in your decision to pursue lip fillers with Dr. Politis. Give your lips the attention they deserve and embark on your journey towards a more luscious and captivating smile.

References:

Dr. Effie Politis: Journey to Becoming a Plastic Surgeon

Key Takeaways:

  1. Dr. Effie Politis’ combination of interests in math, science, and art led her to pursue a career in plastic surgery.
  2. Growing up in a Greek family, Dr. Politis was encouraged to become a doctor or a lawyer.
  3. The International Baccalaureate Program helped her develop the skills needed for a successful career in plastic surgery.

The Unlikely Path to Plastic Surgery

Picture a young girl in middle school, excelling academically and drawn to the math and sciences. At the same time, she is discovering her passion for art classes, pottery, and sculpting. Little does she know that this unique combination of interests will lead her to a successful career in the world of plastic surgery.

In this article, we will take a closer look at the journey of Dr. Effie Politis, a renowned plastic surgeon based in Tampa, FL, and learn more about her playful yet profound approach to her work.

Discovering the Intersection of Science and Art

Dr. Effie Politis recalls her early fascination with both the left and right sides of the brain, as she immersed herself in math, science, and art classes throughout her school years:

“I was drawn to the math and sciences which is kind of a cliché so it’s not necessary to be drawn into the math and sciences but I started some art classes in middle school…So I was kind of using that left side of the brain and the right side.”

As a student in the rigorous International Baccalaureate Program, Dr. Politis would go on to explore her love for both the sciences and arts. She credits this unique combination as one of the driving forces behind her decision to pursue a career in medicine.

The Greek Influence: Doctor or Lawyer?

Growing up in a Greek family, Dr. Politis was encouraged to either become a doctor or a lawyer. With a gift for sciences that was matched only by her passion for the arts, she felt naturally drawn to the world of medicine.

“…my parents were, they were Greek so they were like, you either become a doctor or a lawyer.”

The Rigorous International Baccalaureate Program

Dr. Politis also credits the International Baccalaureate Program for helping her develop the skills and discipline needed for a successful career in plastic surgery. The demanding curriculum and high expectations of the program helped her prepare for the rigors of medical school and her subsequent career.

“I was in the International Baccalaureate Program in high school so that is, actually it was in Port Orange, it was one of the original ones. It was pretty tough but it prepared you for college.”

Politis Plastic Surgery: A Dream Realized

Through her hard work, dedication, and unique blend of artistic and scientific talent, Dr. Effie Politis has established herself as a leading plastic surgeon in Tampa, FL. Today, she puts her skills and passion to work at her own practice, Politis Plastic Surgery.

At Politis Plastic Surgery, patients can feel confident knowing they are in the hands of an experienced, knowledgeable, and compassionate professional. Dr. Politis prides herself on her ability to understand her patients’ needs, allowing her to help them achieve their desired aesthetic goals.

If you are considering plastic surgery, we invite you to visit Dr. Effie Politis at Politis Plastic Surgery in Tampa, FL. With an impressive background in both the arts and sciences, Dr. Politis is uniquely qualified to help you transform your appearance and boost your confidence.

References:

Transcription:

Hi, my name is Dr. Effie Politis with Politis Plastic Surgery.
Yes, that’s a good question. You know, it actually occurred to me in middle school. So I was doing well academically and I did, I think I was drawn to the math and sciences which is kind of a cliche so it’s not necessary to be drawn into the math and sciences but I started some art classes in middle school in a tiny, it’s amazing that our tiny public schools offered actually some great teachers and opportunities.

So some drawing classes, art classes and in high school I took that to pottery and sculpting more but so I was kind of using that left side of the brain and the right side. I did science fairs and would usually go to the national level but because of that my parents were, they were Greek so they were like, you either become a doctor or a lawyer.

And I was in the International Baccalaureate Program in high school so that is, actually it was in Port Orange, it was one of the original ones.
I mean we had people driving from Titusville, of course Orlando and Daytona to come to that. It was one of the original International Baccalaureate Programs so it was pretty tough but it prepared you for college.

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:

New Innovations in Breast Augmentation Procedures

Key takeaways:

  1. Speak to a board-certified plastic surgeon before deciding to undergo any type of breast augmentation surgery
  2. Research the different types of procedures available, as well as their associated risks and benefits;
  3. Follow the post-surgery instructions and check in with your surgeon regularly to ensure a successful recovery.

New Innovations in Breast Augmentation Procedures

The decision to undergo a breast augmentation surgery is one that should be well researched and thoroughly discussed with a board-certified plastic surgeon. Breast augmentation is a cosmetic surgical procedure in which the size and/or shape of a woman’s breasts are surgically altered to improve the appearance of her bust line. This can be done through fat transfer, tissue expansion, or implants. With new advancements in technology, there have been some exciting new developments in the various breast augmentation procedures. This article will provide an overview of the different types of breast augmentation procedures and important considerations for post-surgery recovery.

Types of Breast Augmentation

Fat Transfer

Fat transfer is a type of breast augmentation which involves the transfer of fat cells from one area of the body to the breast area. This can help to restore volume and create a natural look and feel. The benefits of fat transfer is that it is generally considered a safer option than implants because the body is not exposed to any foreign objects. Additionally, the risk of complications such as infection and capsular contracture is much lower. However, the downside of fat transfer is that the results are not as long-lasting compared to the other options.

Tissue Expansion

Tissue expansion is another type of breast augmentation which involves the use of saline or silicone implants. With tissue expansion, saline or silicone implants are inserted between the breast and chest wall. The implants then stretch the skin and over time, the tissue of the breasts will expand to accommodate the implants. This gives a larger, fuller look. The benefits of tissue expansion is that the results tend to be more long-lasting than fat transfer and the risks are generally lower than with the other options.

Implants

Another type of breast augmentation is implants. This is the most commonly used method and involves the insertion of silicone or saline inserts into the breasts. The implants are designed to mimic the natural shape and size of a woman’s breasts. The main benefit of implants is that the results are more immediate compared to the other options. Additionally, the shape and size can be more closely controlled as well. The downside, however, is that there is a higher risk of complications that comes with the surgery.

Post-Surgery Recovery

Once the breast augmentation procedure is completed, it is important to follow the post-surgery instructions provided by the plastic surgeon. Depending on the type of procedure, the recovery timeline and follow-up care may vary. Generally, the recovery period is between one to three weeks. During this time, the patient should avoid certain activities such as lifting, pushing, or pulling and should follow the prescribed medications as directed. Additionally, post-op appointments are required to monitor the patient’s recovery and ensure that the implants are settling and healing properly.

Conclusion

Breast augmentation can improve the appearance of a woman’s bust line and provide a more balanced figure. There are a few different procedures available, each with their own benefits and risks. It is important that patients take the time to research the different options and discuss their concerns and goals with a board-certified plastic surgeon. A skilled plastic surgeon, such as Dr. Effie Politis of Politis Plastic Surgery in Tampa, FL, can help patients make an informed decision and guide them through the post-op recovery process.

Politis Plastic Surgery is a premier plastic surgery clinic in Tampa, FL headed by Dr. Effie Politis. The clinic offers a wide range of cosmetic surgery procedures and provides personalized care to each of their patients. With her extensive training and experience, Dr. Politis is committed to helping her clients achieve natural-looking results and the highest level of satisfaction. To learn more about the services offered at Politis Plastic Surgery, be sure to visit the clinic’s website or call for a free consultation today.

References:

The Difference Between Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery

Key Takeaways:

  1. Cosmetic surgery is an elective choice, while reconstructive surgery is medically necessary.
  2. Reconstructive surgery is often focused on restoring function or appearance, such as for breast cancer patients after a mastectomy.
  3. It is important to consider the costs and potential risks associated with cosmetic surgeries, as these are not usually covered by insurance.

This video features Jamie Hill, Practice Coordinator/Manager of Politis Plastic Surgery, who provides an explanation of the difference between cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. Jaime states that cosmetic surgery is an elective procedure that individuals opt for to enhance their aesthetics, such as breast augmentation or liposuction. These procedures are typically not covered by insurance and require payment in cash. On the other hand, reconstructive surgery is meant to treat medical conditions, birth defects, burns, or injuries, and it is usually covered by insurance as it is medically necessary. In their practice, breast reconstruction for breast cancer patients is a predominant reconstructive procedure.

Jaime Hill’s explanation is crucial in understanding the significant differences between the two types of plastic surgeries. Cosmetic surgery is a choice, a luxury, while reconstructive surgery is often a necessity. Cosmetic surgery is meant to enhance one’s appearance, while reconstructive surgery is meant to restore function or appearance, such as after a disease or injury.

Plastic surgery has become increasingly popular, and it is critical to understand the differences between the types of surgeries. Jaime Hill’s explanation helps to clear the confusion and misconception about the two surgeries. Jaime Hill’s distinction between the two types of plastic surgery highlights the essential nature of reconstructive surgery and its importance in restoring people’s lives.

It is important to note that while cosmetic surgeries are an elective choice, they also have their benefits. Cosmetic surgery can improve an individual’s self-esteem, enhance their self-image, and boost their confidence. Individuals may choose to undergo cosmetic surgery to help them feel better about themselves, and there is nothing wrong with this. However, it is important to consider the costs and potential risks associated with cosmetic surgeries, as these are not covered by insurance.

Reconstructive surgery, as highlighted by Jaime, is primarily focused on restoring function or appearance. One of the critical examples of reconstructive surgery is breast reconstruction, which is often performed for breast cancer patients who have undergone a mastectomy. This procedure not only restores the physical appearance of the breast, but it also helps patients regain their confidence and sense of femininity. Other examples of reconstructive surgery include repairing cleft lips, restoring damaged tissue after an injury, or reconstructing parts of the body after a disease.

In conclusion, plastic surgery plays an important role in society, and understanding the differences between cosmetic and reconstructive surgery is essential. While cosmetic surgery is a luxury, reconstructive surgery is often a medical necessity. Jaime Hill’s explanation helps to clarify the difference between the two types of plastic surgery, and how they can have a positive impact on individuals’ lives. It is important to consider the costs and potential risks associated with cosmetic surgeries, while reconstructive surgery can restore function, confidence, and appearance to patients who have suffered from diseases, birth defects, or injuries. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide whether they want to undergo plastic surgery, and it is essential to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to make an informed decision.

TRANSCRIPTION:

My name is Jamie Hill and I’m with Politis Plastic Surgery.

A lot of people wonder what the difference is between cosmetic and reconstructive surgery.

We provide both at this practice.

The difference in cosmetic and reconstruction is cosmetic is usually an elective procedure

that you choose to have done to enhance your aesthetics.

Maybe you want to be just the best version of you that you can be and maybe that means

you have larger breasts or a flatter stomach.

So those are cosmetic surgeries.

Typically those are not covered by insurance.

Those are cash pay procedures versus reconstructive surgery is used to treat usually a disease

process or a birth defect or something, a burn, something that insurance is going to

cover because we’re fixing, you know, something medically indicated for you.

In our practice, the bulk of what we do when it comes to reconstruction is breast reconstruction

because of breast cancer.

Sources:

Working At Politis Plastic Surgery: Jaime Hill, RN

Jaime Hill works at Politis Plastic Surgery, she has always had an interest in healthcare and went to a medical High School, she got her CNA at 16 then went on to study nursing in college. She worked in labor and delivery for 17 years before deciding to change to a less stressful environment and found her way to plastic surgery. Coincidentally, her sister was diagnosed with breast cancer during this time, she was able to use her knowledge and skills to guide her sister through the process of dealing with breast cancer and breast reconstruction at Politis Plastic Surgery.

Video Transcription:

My name is Jaime Hill and I am with Politis Plastic Surgery. I have always been interested in healthcare, and I attended a medical high school. I became a CNA at 16 and then went on to study nursing in college, earning my bachelor’s degree. My first son was born in a traumatic birth experience, which led me to focus on labor and delivery for 17 years. During that time, I also earned my master’s degree in nursing. However, I decided I needed a change and a less stressful environment. I found my way to plastic surgery and it coincided with my sister’s diagnosis of breast cancer. I was able to use my knowledge and skills to guide her through the process of dealing with breast cancer and breast reconstruction, which is something we do at Politis Plastic Surgery.

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.