What is plastic surgery?

Plastic surgery is a specialty dedicated to the enhancement of the face and body.  For those who wish to improve their appearance, cosmetic surgical procedures offer patients the opportunity to reshape physical features and improve their self-esteem.

Is plastic surgery painful?

Patients tolerate postoperative pain in ways that are different from each other.  Appropriate pain medications, which minimize discomfort, are prescribed for postoperative patients.

How long will my results last?

There is no precise answer to this question.  Surgery does not affect the ongoing aging process which is largely dependent upon genetics.  What cosmetic plastic surgery does is turn back the clock.  Unfortunately, aging is inevitable.  Although with cosmetic surgery, you are able to continue to look more youthful and in shape.

What kind of anesthesia is used?

Dr. DuBou performs surgery under most types of anesthesia:  local anesthesia, intravenous sedation ("twilight"), general anesthesia and regional anesthesia (nerve blocks).  The method of anesthesia used is based on the patient and surgeon's preference. 

Will I be able to breast feed after breast enlargement surgery?

Yes.  Breast augmentation should not affect your ability to breast feed.

Are there risks involved in breast augmentation surgery?

Every surgical procedure entails some risk.  Those associated with this type of surgery are infection, changes in the sensitivity of the breast, and scar contracture.  These and other complications rarely occur and can usually be avoided.  Thousands of women undergo breast augmentation successfully each year and are very satisfied with their outcome.

What type of implants do you use for breast augmentation?

Dr.  DuBou will discuss which implant type would best give you the results you are seeking.  The saline implants (filled with sterile saline solution) that are used for breast augmentation surgery are available in both round and teardrop shapes.  They also come in both smooth and textured styles.  Certain patients may be eligible for the new silicon gel implants.  Dr. DuBou is participating in a silicon filled breast implant clinical study, making yet another gel implant available to those patients wishing to participate in the study.

My breasts sag but are not large.  What can be done?

If the sagging is not severe, a "nipple lift" can be performed.  The excess skin is removed after making an incision around the outside of the areola (the pigmented skin around the nipple).  The resulting scar is confined to the area where the pigmented skin meets the normal skin at the edge of the areola.

In cases of more severe sagging, a procedure similar to breast reduction may be performed by removing skin only - not breast tissue - to result in a more youthful shape. Breast lifting is an excellent alternative to breast implants for many patients.  

I don't like the tip of my nose.  What can I do?

If you like your profile and the tip of your nose is too wide, prominent, projects too much or droops, it can be corrected.  Rhinoplasty is an excellent procedure for the nasal tip when it droops with age. 

Am I ready for a face-lift?

Skin and facial tissue that sag along with aging can give you an appearance of tiredness or anger even when you are feeling happy and energetic.  Jowls and drooping skin around the neck cause you to appear heavy.  With facial rejuvenation, you appear rested, healthy and more youthful.  The idea is to look better, not different.

Often a mini-lift can be performed instead of a full face-lift.  The mini-lift is limited to the lower portion of the face, correcting jowl and neck problems, while the traditional face-lift includes the upper part of the face as well.  Some patients opt to combine a face-lift with other procedures, such as eyelid surgery, or skin resurfacing to achieve a full effect.

Will I look natural after my surgery?

The techniques used by Dr. DuBou help to provide a natural, non-surgical appearance.  Every effort is made to improve your appearance in the most natural view.

When can I go back to work?

The length of time for recuperation after plastic surgery varies depending on the procedure.  Most patients will require assistance for a day or so, and then will be able to care for themselves.  We will discuss with you in detail your postoperative care and recovery instructions.  The techniques offered today allow patients to return to work fairly soon following surgery.

When can I begin to exercise?

Depending on the procedure performed determines when a patient may resume physical exercise.  All patients are encouraged to start a slow walking routine and hold off on anything more strenuous until after consulting with their doctor.

Is there a right age for cosmetic surgery?

There is no ideal age to have cosmetic surgery.  The time to have an elective procedure is when the desired change will justify the time, effort and the cost involved.  Another factor to take into consideration is the potential length of time to enjoy the benefits.  For example, if an individual has a facelift earlier in life, the rewards of this surgery can be enjoyed for a greater period of time.