Are you embarrassed or unhappy with the size of your areolas? You’re not alone. In fact, many women feel insecure with the aesthetics of their breasts. Often times, areola or nipple size can appear disproportionately large on one’s breast as a result of genetics, pregnancy, or increasing age.

For those experiencing proportion issues, asymmetry between the right and left nipples, or stretching of the areolas following an augmentation, areola reduction repair is a surgical option for correction. Areola reduction surgery removes the pigmented area from the outside of the areola to achieve a reduced circumference as well as symmetry between both breasts.

Although this surgery is performed by making a direct incision, the proper placement of incisions and meticulous surgical techniques should leave minimal scarring. This procedure is usually performed under local or general anesthesia, and when performed on its own the recovery phase is quite tolerable. Patients may be instructed to wear a supportive bra during the relatively short healing process.  Exercise and physical activity should be kept to a minimum.

Areola reduction repair is sometimes performed in conjunction with other breast procedures such as a breast augmentation or a breast lift. In addition to reducing the size of the areola, nipples can also be reduced if they appear too long or project too far out. This particular procedure is called nipple reduction surgery.

In addition to areola and nipple reduction surgeries, there are a number of plastic surgery options available for repairing or restoring the breasts. A thorough examination and careful evaluation performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon will determine which type of procedure will provide the best results for the desired outcome.
For additional information, or to schedule a consultation at Amae Plastic Surgery Center, call (855) 335-7200.

We know what you’re thinking based on the title of this blog: the number of cosmetic procedures is declining. But, that’s not the case! The industry is busier than ever – we are just performing fewer “nips and tucks” than we have in the past. Why? Patients and doctors alike are migrating toward non-invasive procedures that utilize lasers, ultrasounds, and filler injections. Various technologies and innovations over the past several years have made achieving various cosmetic results faster and simpler.

The benefits of non-Invasive procedures include:

• Shorter procedure time

• Shorter recovery times

• Less expensive

• Results

But, it’s important that expectations of non-invasive procedures remain realistic. Just because they are “non-invasive” does not mean they are free of risks or side effects; these are still medical procedures. And, minor procedures don’t often yield major results. Many are not as long-lasting and dramatic as the results of surgical procedures.

Let us look at non-invasive liquid face lift procedures, for example: while with most products, results can be seen immediately, they are not permanent like a surgical facelift. A liquid face lift will only improve the look of aging for six months to a year, depending on the product(s) used. Liquid face lifts require touch-up procedures over time to maintain the patient’s desired appearance. Patients seeking more permanent results which will change the elements of their face or their body may instead consider a surgical procedure.

It is for these reasons that choosing a board certified plastic surgeon is extremely important, whether you’re having a surgical procedure or a non-invasive procedure. Because the number of patients desiring non-surgical procedures has increased, the number of professionals performing these procedures has also increased. Not all are board certified or properly trained in cosmetic procedures – only a licensed and skilled plastic surgeon can tell you what the best options are for achieving your desired results. And, ensure that your procedure is a safe one!

If you are interested in a non-surgical or surgical cosmetic procedure, contact us at Amae Plastic Surgery Center.

 

You may have heard that it’s important to do your research and insure that your surgeon is qualified before undergoing a plastic surgery procedure. While that’s sound advice, it can sometimes be challenging to sift through the information you’re getting to insure that you’re doing your homework properly. Here are five areas where not asking the right questions can result in answers that could be confusing.

Ask your surgeon if he or she is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Follow up by asking if they are a member of ASPS (American Society of Plastic Surgeons), which requires its members be certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

The one can be tricky. Anyone with an M.D. can claim they are a plastic or cosmetic surgeon. That means a pediatrician, family doctor or a gynecologist. They often can also claim board-certification, because they are board-certified in their specialty. If these the two statements are made in conjunction with one another, it can sound like they are saying they are “certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.” Also, there is an American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, which is not the same as the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Your surgeon should be able to state that he or she is “certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery” and a “member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons” and he or she should be able to show you their certification.

Ask how many of the procedures they have performed.

This will help ferret out surgeons that have recently gotten into plastic surgery as a way to offset decreasing insurance payouts. Because plastic surgery is often paid for directly by patients, many doctors from other specialties have recently gotten into the “plastic surgery business.” Make sure to not only ask about plastic surgery procedures in general, but to ask about the specific procedure you are considering.

Does your surgeon have hospital privileges?

This means the surgeon has the right to do surgery at a hospital. Because hospitals vet surgeons carefully, this is another assurance that your doctor has the proper credentials to perform plastic surgery. If your doctor says “yes,” ask which hospital(s) and contact the hospital to verify.

Is your surgical facility accredited by a national or state accrediting agency?

Some surgeons perform certain procedures in their office or a private clinic. Remember that plastic surgery, while becoming increasingly common, is still major surgery. If these facilities are accredited, it means they have the necessary equipment and staff to handle an emergency in the rare event that something goes wrong.

Do you have patients that I can talk with and before and after photos that I can look at?

Just as with any professional, your doctor should be able to provide references and show results of his or her work. Don’t hesitate to ask for this information while you’re doing your research.

Remember, plastic surgery is a very personal decision, and it is important that you be completely comfortable with your physician. After all, you are putting your physical aesthetic, and possibly your life, in their hands. You may find a doctor that meets all the qualifications, but with whom you are simply not comfortable. Keep looking. The relationship between patient and doctor is a close and personal one, and you need to be comfortable.

To view a recent PSA announcement from the ASPS by clicking here.