What types of breast surgery procedures do you offer?
- Breast Augmentation/Enhancement: Breast augmentation enlarges the breasts through the insertion of an FDA-approved saline or silicone implant or through the use of fat transfer. You can enhance shape, size, fullness, firmness, proportion, and symmetry.
- Breast Lift: If you want to enhance your breasts without implants, a breast lift may be right for you. It lifts and contours sagging breasts by removing excess skin and tissue for a more youthful position.
- Breast Reconstruction: We offer breast reconstruction for cosmetic purposes or after mastectomy. Contact our clinic to learn more.
- Breast Reduction: Our breast reduction creates smaller, more proportionate breasts while improving comfort and well-being.
Is it safe to breastfeed after having breast augmentation?
It is safe to breastfeed after having a breast augmentation. Breast augmentation surgery does not typically disrupt the ducts that deliver milk from the nipple and should not affect the ability to breastfeed. Dr. Chalekson will take care to ensure that during your breast augmentation surgery, implants are placed in a way to avoid interference with the breast ducts or mammary glands from which milk is excreted. In the case of a breast reduction, while some glandular tissue is removed, in most cases, enough breast tissue is left to enable milk production.
Do breast implants need to be replaced?
There is no specific life span to breast implants; however, we tell our patients that it is most realistic to assume that they will need upkeep and replacement at some point in the future. Imaging studies [ultrasound and/or MRI] can help see the status of your implants and also to see if there are any issues that might need addressing. Breast implants only really need to be replaced or removed, most commonly in the event of two conditions: implant rupture and significant symptomatic capsular contraction. Otherwise, it is a matter of comfort and preference.
Can I have mammograms after breast augmentation?
Mammography technologists are specially trained to perform mammograms in patients with breast implants. Before obtaining a mammogram, it is important to let your healthcare team know that you have implants.
How do I choose the right implant size?
This is entirely a matter of preference! During your consultation, our expert medical team will work with you to help you identify your needs and concerns and select the right size, shape, and type of breast implant for you.
Will having a tummy tuck affect my ability to have more children?
Having a tummy tuck will not put your pregnancy at risk. While it is recommended that you obtain your tummy tuck after you have completed family planning, this is more to help you maintain the results of the procedure, not because there is any medical risk involved with having children.
What is the difference between an “open” and “closed” rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty involves altering the bone or cartilage of the nose. There are two ways to complete the rhinoplasty procedure: open and closed. A closed rhinoplasty involves two incisions made within the inside of the nose, through which alterations are made. With this method, there are typically more restrictions on the degree and type of adjustment/modification that can be performed to your nose.
An open rhinoplasty includes the same two incisions, as well as one additional incision across the columella, which connects the two previous incisions. This incision allows the plastic surgeon to see the nose underneath to do more detailed, advanced work.
Can rhinoplasty be functional/reconstructive in addition to cosmetic?
It depends on the nature of the procedure. Sometimes, rhinoplasty can be both reconstructive and cosmetic, depending on the type of surgery performed. During your initial consultation, our plastic surgeon will be able to clarify what category your procedure will fall under.
How do I know if a facelift is right for me?
When you begin to notice moderate to severe signs of aging on your face, including sagging skin, deep wrinkles, folds, jowls, and excessive neck skin/folds, you may be the ideal candidate for a facelift.
How are male plastic surgery procedures different from those you offer for women?
For our male clients specifically, we understand the unique needs they require in the cosmetic and plastic surgery space, particularly in preserving the natural, masculine aesthetic. We utilize techniques and procedures with this difference in mind.
What is the best age to have plastic surgery?
Save for being a legal adult, there is no “best age” per se for plastic surgery. Your ideal look is based on your needs and your feelings. Some people elect for smaller procedures at an earlier age, and others a more significant one at an older age. There simply is no correct answer for everyone. The final decision to opt for surgery is entirely yours and yours alone.
What does it mean for a surgeon to be board-certified?
When a doctor is board-certified, it indicates that your doctor has completed surgical residency training in their specific specialty and has passed extensive testing and certification of their mastery of the skills and knowledge in that specialty [in this case, the American Board of Plastic Surgery]. The American Board of Medical Specialties is the organization that oversees this board certification in the United States. It is strongly recommended to look for the American Board of Plastic Surgeons accreditation in seeking out surgeons who have undergone appropriate training.
Most boards require recertification and ongoing study-this ensures that qualifying doctors stay up-to-date with advanced techniques and knowledge.
Why do I need a consultation for surgery?
The initial consultation is one of the most important and necessary parts of your experience. During this meeting, we will get to know you and your medical history to ensure that you are an ideal candidate for your chosen procedure. This is your opportunity to discuss any questions and concerns with our team. Dr. Chalekson will also use this time to review the chosen surgical procedure with you, ensuring that you know exactly what to expect and how to prepare for it. Finally, our expert medical team will provide you with a list of personalized instructions to follow before and after your treatment, be sure to follow these directions closely to ensure the most optimal result.
Will I be awake or asleep during my surgery?
It depends on the surgery itself and what would be the safest choice for your procedure. Most surgeries will be performed under general anesthesia. Minor surgeries may be performed with regional or topical anesthesia. During your initial consultation, we will be able to tell you exactly what type of anesthesia would be the most suitable for your procedure.
What kind of anesthesia is used for the surgeries? Can the patient choose their preferred anesthesia?
During your initial consultation, our medical team will tell you which anesthesia is most appropriate for your procedure based on safety and comfort.
Which procedures might require post-procedure touch-ups?
Every person heals differently from their chosen treatment. Therefore, it depends on how your body heals from the surgery. Some individuals may require touch-ups, while others may not. During your recovery period, our team will periodically schedule follow-up appointments with you so we can monitor your progress.
What are the recovery recommendations for all typical procedures?
The specific post-operative and recovery instructions will depend on your chosen procedure, but we generally recommend that our patients take at least two weeks off from work to recover. During your time off, take the time to rest and relax. Avoid strenuous exercise (such as going to the gym) until our medical team advises that it is ok to do so. We always recommend to our patients to follow a healthy diet with lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, drink eight glasses of water, and engage in a healthy, active lifestyle to maintain their beautiful results.
Will I have bruises after surgery?
Immediately following the surgery, as you recover, you may notice some bruising around the treatment area. This is usually normal and typical of the healing process. However, these bruises will heal and fade away over time. Our team will carefully monitor you to ensure that your recovery is optimal.
What is the difference between cosmetic and reconstructive surgery?
Cosmetic plastic surgery enhances the body by changing its shape or size. Reconstructive plastic surgery, on the other hand, not only cosmetically enhances the body but also treats the area of the body that is functionally affected by infection, disease, genetic or developmental abnormalities, or trauma.
I’m not ready to commit to surgery. Are there less invasive options to improve my appearance?
We understand that some of our patients may experience anxiety or hesitation about committing to surgery. This is why our clinic offers a variety of non-invasive or minimally invasive non-surgical therapies that can be wonderful alternatives or additions to help you achieve beautiful results.
