As surgical technology improves, an increasing number of people elect to undergo cosmetic procedures to help them look and feel their best. In order to obtain the full benefits of these procedures, however, it’s important that patients have a thorough understanding of what the procedure involves and what they expect to gain. In September, Legacy Plastic Surgeons and M.C. Hair Consultants partnered to provide “An Evening of Groundbreaking Beauty,” during which they explained some of the cosmetic procedures and spa innovations available. Legacy’s Dr. James A. Lehman Jr. led the evening separating cosmetic surgery fact from fiction. Here are some of the key points:
• Don’t expect miracles. Be realistic with your expectations.
• If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
• “Lifetime procedures” really just provide temporary results.
• Fillers provide temporary results that last less than one year. If you want something more significant, think about doing more.
• Skin care is an important part of maintaining a youthful appearance.
• Board certified plastic surgeons have the best training.
• Do it to please yourself, not someone else.
• It could take several months to see total results, so be prepared.
• Your doctor needs to know about all health conditions before beginning any procedure or treatment.
Dr. Faisal A. Quereshy
Visage Surgical Institute Facial
& Cosmetic Surgery
Procedure: Total Visage Volume Rejuvenation (facial volume restoration)
Average Cost: $4,000 - $6,000
Who are ideal candidates for this
procedure?
Typical patient selection includes patients with moderate facial wrinkling in the naso-labial folds, loss of tissue support, dark circles under the eyes, prominent vertical lip lines, pronounced depressions around the corners of the mouth and other signs of facial hollowing.
How long does the procedure take, and where is it performed?
The TVVR is performed in an accredited out patient surgery facility with intravenous sedation or general anesthesia (patient preference). It takes approximately 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
What is the goal of the procedure?
Restoration of facial volume three dimensionally, eliminating deep facial lines, improving soft tissue supports in the areas of cheek and chin regions (facial pillars) that cause overlying tissue to fall. The procedure uses the patient’s own tissue to ensure longevity of the filler.
What does the procedure involve?
Typically abdominal fat is harvested (other sites may include inner or outer thigh regions), using traditional safe liposuction techniques, processing of the harvested fat, and then re-insertion in various key regions of the face, using minimally invasive procedures and scars that are cosmetically and cleverly hidden. The fat is placed very delicately and artistically to restore facial volume and achieve a natural result that leaves the tissues smooth without the lumpiness of other fillers.
What is recovery like?
Recovery usually takes 5-7 days and may include tissue discoloration (bruising), but very little pain is associated with the procedure.
How long do results typically last?
About 3 to 5 years with subsequent “touch up” procedures to maintain the natural result.
Additional comments: Highly recommended for those patients who do not require the traditional “nip-tuck” surgery of a face lift. All patients should undergo a comprehensive evaluation for a thorough discussion of what procedure will provide the best natural and long term successes.
Dr. David Wiedie
Elegant Dentistry, Inc.
Procedure: Tissue Lift or Recontouring
Average Cost: The cost is $125 per quadrant. However, there is no charge for tissue lifts done in conjunction with veneers.
Who are ideal candidates for this procedure?
Any adult who wants to improve their smile very conservatively without altering the tooth structure is a good candidate for a tissue lift.
How long does the procedure take, and where is it performed?
It is performed in the Dr. Wiede’s office using a topical anesthetic compounded by a local apothecary. The procedure takes about 30 minutes per quadrant.
What is the goal of the procedure?
Recontouring is designed to improve a “gummy smile” appearance by creating the appearance of a longer tooth while keeping the natural tooth structure intact.
What does the procedure involve?
The procedure uses a laser to remove excess tissue.
What is recovery like?
Recovery is minimal. The patient will be slightly numb for about 30 minutes, but leaves the dentist’s office without numbness or swelling. Some tooth/gum sensitivity may be present for 24-48 hours.
How long do results typically last?
Results are permanent.
Dr. David Dellinger
Ohio Valley Plastic Surgery
Procedure: Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck)
Average Cost: $6,000
Who are ideal candidates for this procedure?
Ideal candidates are adults who have had children or lost weight and are concerned with loose, excess skin, droopiness and stretch marks in their abdomen.
How long does the procedure take, and where is it performed?
Abdominoplasty is performed at the hospital or in a surgery center and takes approximately two hours.
What is the goal of the procedure?
The goal is to achieve the appearance of a flatter, smoother abdomen and to fit into clothing better.
What does the procedure involve?
The procedure involves making an incision from hip bone to hip bone in the bikini area, tightening the muscles underneath and removing excess fat and skin. The patient receives general anesthesia during the procedure.
What is recovery like?
Most patients leave the hospital the same day, but are instructed to plan on 10-14 days of down time, taking it easy to allow time for the abdominal muscles to repair. Patients with desk jobs typically return to work within 7-10 days. Those with jobs that require lifting are instructed to take 14 days off before returning to work
How long do results typically last?
The results can be permanent unless the patient gains weight or has more children.
Dr. James A. Lehman
and Dr. Devi Prasad Tantri
Legacy Plastic Surgeons, LLC
Procedure: Skin (Facial) Fillers
Average Cost: $400-$500
Who are ideal candidates for this
procedure?
Middle-aged men and women with moderate to severe facial folds and/or wrinkles are ideal candidates.
How long does the procedure take,
and where is it performed?
The procedure takes only minutes in the office, and results are immediate.
What is the goal of the procedure?
It provides a more youthful appearance.
What does the procedure involve?
Injections to fill facial wrinkles or depressions.
What is recovery like?
No recovery or down time. Some bruising may occur.
How long do results typically last?
On average, results last 9-12 months.
