Top Questions to Ask Your Breast Surgeon

Are you considering breast augmentation surgery?  Often called a “boob job,” breast augmentation is the enlargement of your breasts through the transfer of your own fat or the placement of saline or silicone breast implants.

Before undergoing breast augmentation, you will have a consultation with surgeon so that you can be properly evaluated.  It’s not a bad idea to schedule consultations with two or three different surgeons, so that you can get multiple options about what is best for you. At these appointments, you will be examined and have the opportunity to ask questions. The answers you receive will help you select the right surgeon for you.

Below is a list of the most important questions to ask your plastic surgeon before undergoing breast augmentation.

1. Are you board certified in Plastic Surgery?

The plastic surgeon you choose should be certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery. Many patients simply assume that all plastic surgeons are board certified, however, this isn’t necessary true. In order to be board certified, surgeons must undergo years of training, difficult written and oral exams, ongoing education by attending national meetings and educational courses, maintain admitting and operating privileges at a nearby hospital, and operate in fully accredited surgical facilities. You want to select a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, and not a “Cosmetic Surgeon”.

2. What is your training and experience?

It’s important to only put your trust in a surgeon with adequate training and experience. In addition to choosing a surgeon who is board certified, you should look for one who has several years of breast augmentation experience. Ask them about where they went to school, where they did their residency, and how long they’ve had their own practice. In general, you want to select a surgeon who has done “several hundreds” of the procedure you are requesting.

3. Can I see before and after pictures from previous patients?

All plastic surgeons should have a gallery of before and after pictures from their previous patients. Take a look at these pictures, and look for those patients who have had the breast augmentation procedures you’re looking to have.

Examine the photos with care. You should look for after photos that look like something you would be satisfied with as a patient. You also need to to understand that every patient is different so pay attention to the before photos as well. If the before doesn’t look like you, then it is not fair for you to expect to look like that particular after. It’s important to remember that every plastic surgeon has a distinct aesthetic to their work. In other words, not every plastic surgeon will facilitate the same outcome, even when they’re given the same patient goals. Before and after photos can be a great way to see how your procedure will likely turn out when working with a particular plastic surgeon.

4. What individual procedures would you recommend for my augmentation procedure?

Depending on your goals for surgery, breast augmentation may include a single procedure or several procedures.

For example, some women choose to get breast augmentation as part of a “Mommy Makeover” procedure. A Mommy Makeover is a potentially full-body makeover meant to address physical issues that may occur during aging, pregnancy, weight changes, and breastfeeding. If you choose to have a Mommy Makeover, breast augmentation may be part of this procedure. Other singular procedures that may be involved include tummy tucks, liposuction, or buttock augmentation.

You may also do better with a breast augmentation (implants) and a breast lift. The breast augmentation procedure can make the breasts appear fuller and better shaped while the breast lift can eliminate excess skin and make the breasts appear perkier and less droopy.

Ask the potential surgeons you are speaking with how they would approach your individual procedure. From surgeon to surgeon, you may hear different approaches that can help you decide which is best for you. Does your surgeon prefer saline or silicone implants? Is fat transfer an option for you as an alternative to implants?

5. How long is the surgery?

Breast augmentation as a procedure is a fairly standard surgery. Most of the time, the augmentation itself takes just over an hour. But naturally, you’ll want to get a time estimate from your surgeon. There are various factors that will influence the overall time, such as your breast volume, the thickness of your skin, your body type, and the type of implant selected. Of course, the surgery time will also depend on whether you’re going to have other procedures at the same time such as tummy tuck, liposuction, or Brazilian Butt Lift.

6. Where is the surgery performed?

Your surgery may be performed in a hospital, an ambulatory center, or an accredited office operating room.

7. What nearby hospital are you affiliated with?

If your surgery is not being done in a hospital, it is important to ask what nearby hospital your surgeon works at. This is so you know where you will be sent in the rare event of an emergency. Your surgeon should have admitting and operating privileges at a reputable, nearby hospital.

8. What should I expect during my recovery from breast augmentation surgery?

The recovery period for breast augmentation surgery should be relatively easy. Naturally, if you plan on having more procedures (tummy tuck, liposuction, etc.) at the same time, your recovery will be more extensive. A simple breast augmentation, however, should allow you to be back at work and carrying out light activities within a relatively short period of time. Your surgeon will be able to tell you exactly how long you need off from school or work.

There are also ways that your surgeon can speed and recovery. Dr. Schulman, for example, offers Botox-assisted breast augmentation to some patients. The addition of a small and precise amount of Botox can make recovery easier and quicker.

9. Will I have any scars from the procedure?

Ask your surgeon what types of scars you can expect from the procedure. Naturally, some scarring is inevitably with this type of surgery. However, a good surgeon will know how best to minimize scarring and create a smooth and natural appearance you can feel good about. The specific scars may vary depending on exactly what you need done and your surgeon should be able to draw those scars on you, so you can see exactly how long they will be and where they will be located on your body.

10. How do I pick the size of my implants?

Does he or she pick the size for you or do you pick it yourself? Your surgeon should certainly guide you, but your selection should be a personal one. You want to be sure that you are clear about your implant size. This is usually done prior to surgery since you don’t want to wake up from surgery and wonder what size implant was used. Ask your surgeon how he or she specifically makes this size determination.

11.What if I am unhappy with my results?

You should be aware of what will happen in the event you are unhappy with your results. Each surgeon should have a “revision policy” and you should ask about this. If you need a revision procedure, how are the fees determined? Is there a certain amount of time you must wait before undergoing a revision? This revision policy should be provided to you in writing.

12. How much will my breast augmentation surgery cost?

After your consultation, the surgeon’s coordinator will be able to give you an exact price for your procedure. This price will depend on several factors, including the specific procedure your need, the time in the operating room required, anesthesia and facility fees, and post operative care. It should go without saying that you should never choose a breast augmentation surgeon just because they offer the lowest price. In fact, if you receive an estimate that seems unusually low, you should see this as a red flag. Keep in mind that the surgeon will likely choose to not discuss price with you during the consultation, since surgeons prefer to have medical and surgical discussions with you, and leave the financial discussions to their coordinators.

Schedule Your Breast Augmentation Consultation Today

Dr. Schulman is a New York City board certified plastic surgeon, operating one of the top practices in New York City. If you are considering breast augmentation, contact Dr. Schulman today to schedule your consultation!

Get Rid of the ‘Dad Bod’ With These Procedures

What is a “dad bod,” you ask?According to the term’s original source:“The dad bod is a nice balance between a beer gut and working out. The dad bod says, ‘I go to the gym occasionally, but I also drink heavily on the weekends and enjoy eating eight slices of pizza at a time.’ It's not an overweight guy, but it isn't one with washboard abs, either.”While this isn’t exactly an all-out criticism, it’s also not a glowing review. Furthermore, if you yourself have what someone might describe as a “dad bod,” you’re probably looking for solutions, rather than just accepting the dad bod fate.The good news is that there is absolutely no reason to settle for a dad bod if you don’t’ want it. If you want to eliminate the beer gut and love handles, you have that option with several plastic surgery procedures.So, when you’re ready to say “so long!” to the dad bod life, here are the top procedures that will help.

Top Procedures for Tackling Dad Bod

Male Liposuction

When you look in the mirror, you want to see what your mindset reflects: Confidence and strength. When you don’t see this, however, discouragement is inevitable. And it’s even more discouraging when you’ve been putting in long hours at the gym and you still aren’t seeing results.When this is the case, male liposuction is the best procedure that can help. Any man with a healthy BMI (Body Mass Index) and with good skin elasticity and muscle tone can be a strong candidate for liposuction. Remember that liposuction is not a weight loss tool – it is a body contouring procedure. It is designed to help the specific areas that are resistant to your diet and exercise.The liposuction procedure removes stubborn fat from common fatty areas that men struggle with: abdomen, arms, chest, thighs, neck/chin, and flanks. This is achieved through the insertion of a hollow stainless steel tube, called a cannula, into the skin through very small incisions. Once the cannula is inserted, Dr. Schulman will suck out the excess fat cells by a combination of back-and-forth motions and suction. This trusted procedure is highly effective and can be performed as an outpatient. In fact, from start to finish, you’ll generally only have to spend a few hours in our office for liposuction.

Male Tummy Tucks

Many men assume that procedures like tummy tucks are only for women. It is common for women to get a tummy tuck after pregnancies, but men also complain of excess abdominal skin that occurs with aging or with weight loss. The truth is, men are just as likely to get a tummy tuck as women are. Likewise, tummy tucks performed on men are just as effective as they are with women. Finally, men are just as satisfied with the results.Whereas the liposuction procedure only removes fat deposits beneath the skin, the tummy tuck procedure (abdominoplasty) tightens up the ab muscles and also removes excess skin. This is often a good procedure for those who have recently lost a large amount of weight as it can help remove stretched out skin and stretch marks, especially on the lower abdomen.In some cases, male liposuction is used in tandem with male tummy tucks — in effect, removing small deposits of excess fat while at the same time tightening the excess abdominal muscles, and removing excess skin. The entire result will give you a flatter, firmer, decidedly less “dad bod” abdomen.

Male Breast Reduction

It’s not uncommon for fullness in the male chest (gynecomastia) to develop over time. This may be caused by normal aging, hormonal factors, recreational drug use, prescription medications, weight fluctuations, or a genetic predisposition. Some men develop enlarged chests during puberty and it never improves.Regardless of the cause, wanting to get rid of this excess tissue is completely natural, so many men attempt to reduce on their own. However, even with rigorous exercise and dieting, these efforts often prove futile. This may be because the glandular breast cannot be reduced with diet or exercise, because the fullness is actually caused by stretched skin, or because genetic factors make slimming in this area on your own simply impossible.Fortunately, the male breast reduction procedure performed by Dr. Schulman is the ideal way to solve this problem.In a male breast reduction (or gynecomastia surgery) New York City Dr. Schulman removes the excess glandular breast tissue and lifts and firms the area in order to get rid of droopiness and sagginess. Because everyone’s experience with gynecomastia is unique, Dr. Schulman will cater your procedure to you, specifically. In this way, your procedure may involve liposuction, physical tissue removal, and/or skin removal. The scars and recovery will depend on exactly what needs to be done for you.

Botox for Men

In the non-surgical realm, many men are looking for quick and effective solutions to facial rejuvenation. This means the reduction or elimination of wrinkles and lines — often, most troublesome at the corners of the mouth, between the eyebrows, on the forehead, and at the outer corners of the eyes (crow’s feet). As a man, you may also want to combat unfortunate natural facial expressions that can sometimes make you appear angry, worried, or tired — even when you aren’t.The best solution for these challenges is — time and again —Botox.Botox provides fast and highly-effective solutions to wrinkles and the appearance of unwanted expressions. It can also slim bulky or unattractive jawlines, and it can even reduce excessive sweating on the hands and feet or beneath the underarms.Furthermore, Botox will not only reduce and get rid of wrinkles, but it will actually prevent further wrinkles from forming as you age.Possibly the best news about Botox is that the process is fast, and simple. Discomfort is extremely minimal, and there is no downtime involved.

Chemical Peels or Laser Treatments

When you’re after improvement for skincare issues such as scarring, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, or uneven texture, chemical peels and lasers are simple, noninvasive procedures that can help.Dr. Schulman uses a variety of chemical peels of varying strengths. These peels may treat the outermost layers or go even deeper into the skin.  Recovery from chemical peels is minimal, but will depend on the depth of the treatment. It may involve several days of redness, followed by several days of peeling. In the end, you’ll enjoy smoother, tighter, more even skin.Laser treatments are also a great option. Dr. Schulman has a variety of lasers available to you. These lasers may resurface the outer layers with minimal downtime, or he may recommend a deeper laser treatment to reduce lines, wrinkles, and old acne scarring.For optimal effectiveness, many patients opt to combine their chemical peels and lasers with procedures such as neck lifts and eyelid surgery.

Ready to Start Working on That Dad Bod?

Dr. Schulman a New York City Plastic Surgeon offers the type of male plastic surgery New York City guys can get on board with: Straight-forward, effective procedures with straight-forward, effective results.From Botox and chemical peels to male liposuction and breast reduction, Dr. Schulman will help you say goodbye to the dad bod lifestyle and hello to a body you can be proud to strut at the beach or gym.To schedule your “dad bod” consultation with Dr. Schulman today, give our office a call at (212) 289-1851, or send us a message and we’ll be in touch with you soon!

Mommy Makeover 101: How to Best Restore Your Body

While mothers never fail to say how rewarding pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding truly are, this doesn’t take away the fact that these processes can do a number on their bodies. In fact, many women never fully regain the elasticity of their skin, the tone of their muscles, or their overall body shape of their youth.With help from a skilled Board Certified Plastic Surgeon like Dr. Matthew Schulman, however, a combination of personally-customized cosmetic procedures can be combined into one single operation to restore a woman’s pre-baby body and even improve it. This is called a “Mommy Makeover.”

What Exactly Is a “Mommy Makeover”?

A Mommy Makeover is a collection of cosmetic procedures that are combined into one single operation, designed to restore the body to its pre-baby shape and form. This means every Mommy Makeover with Dr. Schulman in New York City will be different. Dr. Schulman will individualize your surgery based on your body type and your desires. The term “Mommy Makeover” is also a misnomer, since it can be performed on women who are not moms.  It is not uncommon for women to request a “Mommy Makeover” to reverse the signs of aging and changes associated with weight loss. 

Some of most common issues that are addressed by Mommy Makeovers include:

• Excess skin on the abdomen
• Resistant fat deposits that won’t budge, even with diet and exercise
• Separated or stretched abdominal muscles
• Sagging or deflated breasts
• Uneven breasts
• Buttock or hip flattening

Why Do Such Severe Physical Changes Occur with Pregnancy and Birth?

If you’ve had a child, you know how dramatic the entire process of pregnancy and childbirth is. Your entire body changes in ways you’d never expect, and contrary to what many celebrities will claim, “bouncing back” isn’t simply a matter of putting in hard work at the gym and going on a diet. Additionally, the effects of these natural processes are even more pronounced after multiple children, or pregnancies with significant weight gain.So, what’s actually going on to make your body change so permanently after pregnancy and childbirth?Naturally, weight gain is one of the biggest culprits. Although absolutely essential with pregnancy, it can wreak havoc on your body. Contrary to what many women initially assume, you’re not just gaining 7 or 8 pounds (or the weight of an average baby) either.Most women who start at a healthy weight gain at least 25 to 35 pounds overall during their pregnancies. Some women gain even more. The average 25 to 35 pounds includes the weight of the baby, certainly. But it also includes additional things like the placenta, amniotic fluid, the enlarged uterus, added body fluids and blood volume, and extra energy stores (fat). These are all essential to the process of a healthy pregnancy.Of course, weight gain like this doesn’t come without repercussions. Pregnancy weight gain can cause “stubborn fat cells” to accumulate (fat that won’t go away after childbirth, even with diet and exercise). The growing baby can also cause the skin on the abdomen to stretch out — and it may not bounce back to its original tightness. Stretch marks may appear. And finally, the stomach muscles can separate and stretch; this is called ab separation or diastasis recti.Your breasts will also be affected by pregnancy and breastfeeding. The breasts may first enlarge during both of these periods; however, when breastfeeding comes to an end, the breasts will deflate, and you may be left with drooping or sagging breasts.Many of these changes are the result of hormonal changes associated with pregnancy. This means that even after the baby has been born, it may take your body up to a year before these hormones return to normal.

What Surgeries Typically Make Up a Mommy Makeover?

In order to produce an effective Mommy Makeover, surgeons like Dr. Schulman rely on a number of proven effective cosmetic procedures. Again, these will vary from patient to patient, commonly include:Breast Augmentation: This procedure is excellent for women whose breasts have enlarged during pregnancy and/or breastfeeding and now sag and droop. The process involves increasing your breast size by placing breast implants either above or below the chest muscle. Oftentimes, the breast needs to be lifted and a breast lift needs to be performed together with the breast implant.Liposuction: Liposuction is the removal of unwanted and stubborn fat. A small incision is made in the problem area (such as the abdomen, buttocks, or thighs), the area is anesthetized, and Dr. Schulman will use a thin tube called a cannula to suction out the unwanted fat. This results in a smooth contour of the area and reduced fat. Liposuction is often performed with other procedures.Tummy Tuck: A tummy tuck tightens the abdominal muscles (repair of diasthasis recti) and also removes excess skin. This is great for moms with stretched skin around the abdomen and the presence of unsightly stretch marks.Fat Transfer: A fat transfer involves using the fat that is removed with liposuction and re-injecting this fat into other areas of the body that you want reshaped or enlarged. Fat can be added to the buttock and hips, in a procedure called a Brazilian Butt Lift.

For Further Reading:

Deciding between liposuction and a tummy tuck? Most women opt for both of these procedures in their Mommy Makeover but many are confused about how they differ.  For a better understanding of how each procedure differs, check out this article, which compares the two.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mommy Makeovers

Q: Can a Mommy Makeover really restore my body to its original size and shape?

A: Every patient’s Mommy Makeover will be different just as every woman’s pregnancy, birth, and postpartum experience is different. As a result, the outcome of your makeover may not exactly restore your pre-baby body. However, we can tell you that your results will indeed improve some or all of the less-than-desirable effects caused by hormonal fluctuations, weight gain, breastfeeding, etc.In fact, many women report feeling that their Mommy Makeover actually made them feel better about their appearance than they once felt prior to becoming pregnant. Dr. Schulman will discuss what specific procedures should be part of your Mommy Makeover.

Q: Why do they call it a Mommy Makeover?

A: Some women don’t like this term, and we get it. The truth is that “Mommy Makeover” is just a cute term — nothing more. The actual procedure itself is a highly safe combination of useful and effective cosmetic procedures. Call it what you like — it’s a process that will restore your body to its original beauty and shape and improve your confidence many times over.

Q: Where are Mommy Makeovers Performed?

A: Because Mommy Makeovers combine several surgeries into one safe and effective procedure, some women assume that the procedures must be done in a hospital. In fact, all Mommy Makeover procedures are performed in Dr. Schulman’s fully-certified, accredited office operating facility, under general anesthesia. During the surgery you are completely monitored by a Board Certified Anesthesiologist.

Q: What’s recovery time for a Mommy Makeover?

A: The necessary recovery time for a Mommy Makeover will depend on exactly what is done during your surgery. The more procedures you have done, the longer your recovery will be. In general, most women require about 2 weeks off from work and activities. For more extensive procedures, a third week of recovery may be indicated. Dr. Schulman will be better able to address this question after you are evaluated. You should understand that it can take a few moths before you feel totally back to normal.

Q: What is the cost for a Mommy Makeover?

A: The cost will depend on exactly what is to be done, so there is no standard price. However, the cost of combining multiple procedures, such as in a Mommy Makeover, is less expensive than having each procedure done individually.

Q: How drastic will the results be?

A: Much of your results will depend on what exactly you wanted to change, which of the suggested procedures you decided to move forward with, and the extent of each procedure. For an idea of what you may be able to expect from your makeover, however, we invite you to check out our Mommy Makeover Before and After photo gallery.

Are You Ready for a Mommy Makeover?

If you’ve been looking in the mirror, unhappy with the reflection staring back at you, talk to Dr. Schulman about making the improvements you’re considering. The Mommy Makeover women prefer is one performed by Dr. Schulman — hands down. As one of the nation’s top board-certified plastic surgeons, Dr. Schulman’s experience, precision, and record of amazing results truly sets him apart.Becoming a mother is an amazing process and one you should be proud to have accomplished. But now it’s time to do something for yourself. Contact Dr. Schulman today to schedule a consultation for a Mommy Makeover. See what this revolutionary, personalized procedure can do for you.

Top 3 Cosmetic Procedures Most in Demand by the New Generation

In this new age of social media, everyone wants to look their best. Everyday millions of people post images on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram that showcase their best selves to the world. That includes this new generation of millennials who are signing up for plastic surgery procedures in record numbers.According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons in their 2019 Plastic Surgery Statistics Report, an estimated 17.7 million cosmetic procedures took place. Many of those procedures were requested by the “new generation”, a subset of Millenials who are 20-39 years old. Of the procedures that were most requested, the top of the list include breast augmentation, liposuction, and rhinoplasty.Let’s look at a little bit more about these top 3 cosmetic procedures most in demand by the new generation and why people are exploring these options in body improvements. Plus, the best part of this new generation is that they aren’t afraid to talk about the body and face improvements they want a plastic surgeon to make for them. It’s a whole new world of full transparency

Breast Augmentation New York City is the #1 Requested

Breast augmentation is by far the most requested cosmetic procedure by this new generation. This is also called an augmentation mammoplasty or more informally referred to as “breast implants” or “breast enlargement”. During this procedure, a plastic surgeon inserts implants that are filled with either silicone or saline under a patient’s existing breast tissue. The goal with implants is to get the most natural looking and feeling results as possible. The latest implant technology allows a combination of durability and natural appearing and feeling.There are many reasons that people decide they want to enhance their body in this way. It may be that they like their breasts but desire a larger cup size. Other times it could be to even out differences in size and shape between each breast. Asymmetry is very common and is a big reason why people decide they want to undergo breast augmentation surgery with breast implants.Some people have this type of procedure after surgery to treat breast cancer. This would be reconstructive surgery. A mastectomy to remove one or both of the breasts after cancer can contribute to the desire for implants. The rebuilding of this area with a breast implant can make a person’s recovery feel more complete by restoring their body to the form they want.

Millennials Want to Feel More Confident

As a confidence booster many women feel that having breast augmentation will make them happier with their figure. This subset of millennials is very outspoken about their desire to better themselves in any way they see can. There is less stigma associated with this surgery than ever before. With social media, the new generation isn’t afraid to document their own plastic surgery journeys to their friends, family, and followers. Past generations might have been more close-mouthed and secretive about visiting a plastic surgeon, but that’s not the case anymore. It’s a very accepted way to better your appearance if that’s what you choose to do. People are proud of the improvements that a plastic surgeon can do for them. It’s evident on television shows that highlight and explore the benefits of plastic surgery.

What to Expect After Breast Augmentation Surgery

After the surgery there can be some pain and swelling. It is done on an outpatient basis, with the patient being allowed to go home the same day. The stitches used for the incision are dissolvable and will be absorbed into the body within six weeks. To relieve the pain and discomfort an over-the-counter medication such as acetaminophen can be taken. Most patients are back to normal daily activities within a few days.The patient will have to be careful to avoid strenuous activities for about 3-4 weeks, wear a special supportive bra, and may have to do some post-operative exercises to relieve pain and increase arm movement.

The #2 Cosmetic Procedure is Liposuction New York City

Liposuction is one of the oldest cosmetic procedures and it’s still very popular among the new generation to tone and tweak their figures. This procedure removes extra pockets of fat from various areas in the body. Those places can include the stomach, thighs, hips, neck, or arms. It’s not meant to be a weight loss solution, but rather the procedure can help to streamline and slim those hard to lose places where exercise isn’t doing the trick. It is a body contouring procedure.This procedure is also done as an outpatient, and you are able to go home the same day, There can be soreness, bruising, and swelling after the surgery. The discomfort will vary depending on the extent of liposuction and the number of areas.Compression garments are worn after the surgery to help minimize the pain and reduce swelling. Over-the-counter medications can also be taken as well.

The Long Term Results of Liposuction

For different people the long term results of liposuction can vary. If the person gains significant weight, the fat deposits will come back in certain areas. You have to be very careful to maintain a healthy lifestyle after having liposuction done and your body may change as you continue to age. 

Rhinoplasty New York City is the #3 Top Procedure

Finally, the third most popular procedure is rhinoplasty or what is commonly called a “nose job.” This allows the plastic surgeon to slim down, reshape, or fix bumps and asymmetry in the nose area. It can enhance the entire facial structure for a person when it’s done the right way.The nose is one of the most common areas for improvement that makes a big difference in a person’s overall appearance. In this age of “selfies” being taken all the time, the new generation has mastered this way of taking their own photo for showing off on social media. That’s why a cosmetic procedure involving the face is still such a popular surgery for millennials to have.Many older teens also request this surgery before they head off to college as a graduation present from their parents. This rite of passage has been popular for decades.

After a Rhinoplasty Cosmetic Procedure

This surgery is also done on an outpatient basis.  After a rhinoplasty procedure, the patient can expect to be bandaged with some swelling and pain. Over-the-counter medication can also be taken to deal with some of the minor pain that happens after the procedure. Splints will be worn on the face around the nose area for about a week after the surgery.You will also have to be careful about any activities where something could potentially injure your face. Hardcore exercise should be avoided for a few weeks and it’s also not advisable to wear glasses or sunglasses during this time while the nose area is healing.

Dr. Matthew Schulman is Ready to Serve the New Generation of Millenials

Dr. Matthew Schulman is a board certified New York City plastic surgeon who is more than ready to serve this new generation of patients. If you are ready to make serious improvements to your face and body, this New York City based physician is going to be there for all your aesthetic goals. Be the beautiful person you want to be inside and out with any of these top 3 cosmetic procedures and all others he offers. Contact Dr. Schulman’s office with any questions or to schedule an appointment to explore how you ideally want to look today.

Do I need Liposuction or a Tummy Tuck?

Many people have questions about liposuction and tummy tucks. They tend to be confused about the differences between these procedures and have questions about which is the best option for them. So let’s talk about these two, very different, procedures. We will review what each procedure really treats, and how to figure out which one is best for you.

What is Liposuction?

Liposuction is the removal of fat from anywhere on your body. During liposuction, a special tool called a cannula is inserted under the skin through tiny incisions and then connected to a suction pump. The suction helps to remove fat cells from under the skin in the area you are concerned about. This procedure is specific for removal of fat. It does not do anything to directly improve skin, although some skin tightening can occur naturally over several months after liposuction. The scars are small and, when done properly, are usually very well hidden. Small areas of liposuction can be performed using only local anesthesia, while larger areas will require general anesthesia. The amount of fat that can be removed in a single procedure will vary by state. We consider liposuction to be a body-shaping procedure, not a weight loss procedure and requires a different way of healing.

What is a Tummy Tuck or Abdominoplasty?

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is procedure that addresses multiple aspects of the abdomen. It removes the excess skin of the abdomen and tightens the underlying abdominal muscles that have become separated from weight changes or pregnancies.  Relocation of the belly button is also a part of a tummy tuck. The belly button is brought through a new opening in the abdominal skin. Often, liposuction is performed as part of a tummy tuck to help improve the results by helping to shape the sides. Because skin is removed during a tummy tuck, there is a resulting scar. This scar can be hip-to-hip, depending on the amount of skin removed, and is placed beneath the underwear or bikini line. A tummy tuck can take 2-3 hours and requires general anesthesia administered in a properly accredited operating facility.

How to Decide if a Tummy Tuck or Liposuction is Right for You?

Deciding which procedure is right for you will depend on your specific complaints. If you are someone with tight skin but complains of excess fat, then liposuction is probably the right procedure for you. Liposuction can be performed on those specific areas that you want smaller. It is a terrific procedure for people who are in good shape and near their ideal body weight, but who have “problem areas” where there is fat that is resistant to diet and exercise. For men, these “problem areas” are commonly the chest, abdomen and flanks. For women, it is commonly the abdomen and thighs. Liposuction can be done on any other area of the body.

However, if you have hanging skin of your belly with stretch marks, then you will require removal of the skin. Also, if you have separation of your abdominal muscles, called a diasthasis, then you will require muscle tightening. Abdominal muscle separation usually occurs after pregnancy or changes in weight. Removal of the skin and tightening of the muscles can only be accomplished with a tummy tuck. Liposuction will NOT help these problems.

In general, younger patients with good skin quality, will do well with liposuction. If your skin is loose, or has a lot of stretch marks, then liposuction may actually make the appearance worse, since removing the fat will make the skin even looser.  This means that people who have had frequent or significant weight fluctuations, will usually require skin removal. If you have lost a lot of weight, then it is likely that your skin is hanging and the only way to make it better is to cut it off with a tummy tuck.  If you are a mommy and have had multiple pregnancies, it is likely that your skin has been stretched and is now loose. Also, pregnancy causes abdominal muscle separation. For these reasons, a tummy tuck is usually the solution for the typical “mommy belly”. Additionally, if you are older, your skin has likely lost some of its elastic properties and collagen. In these situations, the skin will not tighten after liposuction, and the appearance can be made worse unless the skin is removed.

If you have extra fat, then liposuction may be for you. If you have extra skin or separated abdominal muscles, you will likely need a tummy tuck.

Let Your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Decide for You!

So, liposuction is a very different procedure than a tummy tuck. Your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon will be able to examine you and help you understand which is the better option for you. The recovery for a tummy tuck is harder and longer than liposuction, but it may be the best option for you. I would strongly recommend that if you need a tummy tuck, do not choose liposuction since it will only make your problem worse and you will need a tummy tuck even more.

Contact Schulman Plastic Surgery to Book Your Plastic Surgery Procedure.

Contact New York City Plastic Surgeon Matthew Schulman, M.D. today and schedule your procedure.

10 Ways to Heal Properly after Your Procedure

 

Any cosmetic surgery is a serious procedure, and even minimally invasive treatments require patients to follow a few guidelines for optimal recovery. These guidelines can help control post-surgical pain, but they also are designed to ensure that the surgery has the best possible chance of improving the appearance of the area affected by the procedure. That’s why proper healing is crucial both to your overall health and happiness and to the long-term effectiveness of your cosmetic procedure.

Here are 10 things New York City Plastic Surgeon, Dr Schulman recommends to my patients to help ensure that their bodies can heal properly after cosmetic procedures.

1. Follow Doctor’s Orders

For some patients, it may seem too obvious a tip, but closely following the post-operative or post-treatment instructions your Board Certified Surgeon provides is absolutely crucial. Your doctor is the expert on your specific procedure and is the only one who can provide their unique perspective, having actually operated on your body. No website will ever know as much about your body as your doctor does. The after-care instructions you get from your doctor are meant specifically for you based on your body and the procedures you’ve undergone. It can be tough to resist, but if you have questions or concerns about those instructions, you should consult your doctor rather than relying on the internet for advice.

2. Take Relaxation Seriously

For any surgery, your activity level is likely to be severely restricted for days or even weeks. While you’ll need to limit your activity level, it’s also important to remember that relaxation extends to your mind as well. That means you should avoid unnecessary mental and emotional strain as well as taking it easy on your body. Many of my patients find it helpful to meditate each day or just to spend time in a quiet room, away from the daily hustle and bustle of their families.

3. Be Patient

The full effects of many cosmetic procedures can take as long as a year to be realized. I’ve worked with patients who find themselves disappointed when they look at their body following surgery and don’t see the jaw-dropping effects they’d hoped for. While that disappointment is understandable, it’s important to give your body plenty of time to adjust. Your body right after surgery will be swollen, and depending on the procedure, the new shape created has yet to fully take effect. For instance, if your surgery involved fat grafting, which uses liposuction to take unwanted fat from one area of the body and transplants it to another that’s lacking volume, it will take some time for the fat cells to begin thriving in their new home. It can take up to a full year after surgery to see your final results - and in some people even longer.

4. Stay Indoors When You Can

The sun has notoriously bad effects on our skin, from causing cancer to dotting the face and neck with dark spots. But direct sunlight can be even worse for those healing from surgery. UV rays can make scars appear darker and redder and this can last for months. Additionally, excessive heat can worsen inflammation, which can increase your pain level. Your skin may be numb, and you will be more likely to suffer a sunburn. If you do need to be outside for extended periods, I recommend applying sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 directly to the scars. Remember that the UV rays are strong enough to penetrate clothing, so even if you are covered up, make sure to protect your healing scars.

5. Stop Smoking (and Don’t Vape)

Of course, nobody should smoke, but millions of Americans are smokers, and smoking is known to be an incredibly difficult habit to kick. In addition to raising your risk of cancer and heart disease, smoking can actually make your recovery from surgery much worse and more difficult. That’s because nicotine constricts blood vessels, which slows the healing process considerably and increasing your risk for wound healing issues and infection. If you think vaping is safer, think again; one Juul pod contains 20 cigarettes’ worth of nicotine. You should quit smoking for more reasons than just surgical recovery, but consider this: The investment you’re making in cosmetic surgery could well be wasted if you continue smoking after your procedure.

6. Drink Plenty of Water

Keeping well-hydrated is a crucial aspect of ensuring successful recovery from cosmetic procedures. Drinking 6-8 glasses of water per day (juice, coffee, soda, and tea don’t count) can help flush your system of potential toxins, reduce your risk of infection, and speed the healing of your surgical incisions by boosting nutrient delivery. Additionally, drinking lots of water can help prevent constipation, which is a frequent but unfortunate side effect of the pain medication you may be on. It is common after surgery to have a reduced appetite, which is even more reason to push the fluids. Electrolyte-containing drinks, such as gatorade or powerade, are helpful in keeping you well-hydrated.

7. Increase Your Protein Intake

As your body continues to recover, it will require increased amounts of nutrients to ensure proper healing. Protein is an especially helpful nutrient because it spurs production of new cells, such as collagen and blood cells, and because it can help strengthen your immune system. Your ideal intake level will depend on your body weight and level of activity approved by your Board Certified Surgeon, but men usually will need slightly less protein than women.

8. Move Your Body, but Don’t Strain Yourself

I’ve already told you to take it easy, so this could seem like contradictory advice. The fact is that some physical activity is good. Proper healing from cosmetic procedures doesn’t mean lying in one spot for weeks on end. In fact, lack of activity can increase your risk of blood clots as well as cause stiff and sore muscles. I recommend my patients move their bodies, whether by light walking or gentle stretching, at least once an hour when they’re awake. Remember to always follow post-operative instructions on strenuous activity, such as going to the gym or lifting more than 10 pounds. Try to listen the signals your body is sending; if something feels like too much of a strain, it probably is.

9. Ask for Help from Others

Most major cosmetic procedures will seriously impact your ability to meet the normal obligations of your life. This includes not being able to go to work for at least a couple of weeks after surgery, and it could even mean reducing your ability to care for your children or pets adequately for a brief period. Particularly for patients who are undergoing multiple procedures, such as a mommy makeover, or having invasive surgeries, it’s crucial to arrange help in the everyday tasks that are part of your life. Asking for help can be a challenge for most people. We all want to feel independent. Forcing yourself to return to your normal activities too soon can not only jeopardize the effectiveness of your cosmetic procedures, but it can negatively impact your overall health.

10. Keep All of Your Post-op Appointments

The more successful a patient’s recovery is, the more likely some patients are to forego follow-up appointments. After all, many people think, “I feel good, so I’m sure everything is OK”. While this is an understandable inclination, skipping your follow-up appointments means that your doctor cannot monitor your progress or check for possible signs of infection. Your doctor will only schedule follow-ups with you that are necessary, and most doctors will only release patients back to normal activities if they’ve been able to examine them in person.

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Considering cosmetic surgery? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Schulman today.

 

What is the normal recovery period after a Brazilian Butt Lift?

 

 Before we can discuss the normal recovery process for a Brazilian Butt Lift, let’s describe what the procedure is. A Brazilian Butt Lift, or BBL, is a procedure where we combine liposuction with fat transfer. We remove fat from the areas that you don’t want it, such as your abdomen, flanks, back, thighs, or arms. The fat is removed using a specialized liposuction technique so that the fat cells are not harmed. We then process the fat to remove the blood and dead fat cells. This fat is then injected into the butt and hips to enlarge and reshape the areas, or fill in some contour defects like “hip dips” or other dimples.The procedure is performed under general anesthesia in a fully certified and accredited operating facility. Dr. Matthew Schulman believes that general anesthesia is the safest method of anesthesia for this procedure. The procedure takes 2-3 hours depending on the amount of liposuction and fat transfer required. You will then be transferred to a recovery area where you will spend a few hours until you are awake and feel better. You are able to leave the facility and return home or to wherever you plan on recovering after your procedure.

What the Recovery Period From Brazilian Butt Lift Will Be After You Get Home

So now let’s talk about what the recovery will be after you get home. There is certainly pain after the procedure. Liposuction hurts. There is bruising and swelling that cannot be avoided. Even though people have different thresholds for pain, I tell all my patients to expect “the worst pain of your life” for 4 to 5 days. Hopefully your pain will not be this bad, but you should mentally prepare yourself for this possibility. I would rather have you experience less pain than you expected, than experience more pain than expected. You will be bruised and swollen in the areas of fat removal and fat injection. During this time, you should rest, drink plenty of fluids, and take your medications as directed. After this initial 4-5 days, you will begin to feel better, but the soreness will last several weeks. If you had a drainage tube placed during your procedure, it is usually removed on the 7th day. Most patients will be able to resume normal activities and return to school or work after 10-14 days. You can begin more strenuous activities, such as exercising, after 3-4 weeks, with your surgeon’s permission of course.Even after return to daily activities, there will be significant swelling and probably some bruising. There will be days where you feel great, and other days where you feel terrible. The ups and downs are normal after any surgery. You will not be entirely happy with your surgical results right away. The buttock and hips may seem bigger than you wanted, or the shape may not seem as round as you had hoped for. Also, the areas of liposuction may not seem small enough for you. This is completely normal. It usually takes about 4-6 weeks before you begin to see the improvement in your shape, so you must be patient with the healing process.

The keys to Brazilian Butt Lift recovery

The key to the recovery is to not put pressure on the areas of fat grafting for a total of 6 weeks. This means no sitting directly on your butt and no sleeping on your back or sides. This is necessary to protect the newly transferred fat cells and they develop a blood supply and become permanently part of you again. It is no different than putting grass seed down on the dirt. If you walk on the grass seeds or tiny seedlings, they will die. Think of your transplanted fat as tiny seeds. If you put too much pressure on your butt or hips, a lower percentage of fat cells will live, or “take”. Even if you follow every rule and restriction, a loss of about 30% of the fat cells is normal. We just don’t want you to lose more fat than that.I understand that not sitting is the most difficult part of the recovery process. You should practice learning to sit upright, with good posture, and more forward on the edge of your seat. This will place the pressure on the back of your thighs instead of your butt. The use of a specialized “BBL pillow” can also help. Many of my patients who work in an office have used a “standing desk”. But remember, if you are planning to keep your surgery a secret from your co-workers, you may want to start using your standing desk long before you return from your 2 week “vacation” with a round butt.You will likely experience “fluffing” that occurs about 6 months after the surgery. You should notice increased roundness to your butt and hips. This occurs as the fat matures and settles, and the skin becomes more relaxed. This is a good thing and people think that the butt gets bigger. It doesn’t actually get larger, but it does get more round and appears bigger.With any plastic surgery, it can take up to a full year to see your final results. Your Brazilian Butt Lift results are no exception. Patience is most important with this procedure. Of course, if you have questions about your recovery and results, make sure to speak to your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.

Contact Your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon with Any Questions!

Please feel free to contact Schulman Plastic Surgery to arrange for your consultation and feel free to look at our Brazilian Butt Lift before and after photos.

What is PermaLip Lip Augmentation?

If you’ve long coveted the lips of stars like Angelina Jolie, Scarlett Johansson or the iconic Marilyn Monroe, you’ve probably done some research on lip augmentation procedures and wondered which option would, once and for all, give you the plump, pouty, natural look so admired on stage and screen. While there are several options available, from temporary injectable solutions to implants, Board certified New York City plastic surgeon Dr. Matthew Schulman is particularly excited about PermaLip lip augmentation implants.

What makes PermaLip Implants Different from Others?

PermaLip lip implants are a significant and pleasing step up from previous varieties of cosmetic lip implants. They have been a life-changer for many of Dr. Schulman’s patients who wanted to boost and plump up thin lips, or who have experienced the thinning of the lips that often comes with the aging process.Previous models of permanent lip implants came with several disadvantages, the most obvious of which was their unnatural look and feel. Some of them had what Dr. Schulman calls the “cigarette roll” look, as the ends were not tapered to conform to the natural shape of the mouth. Many of these older lip implants would migrate into unnatural positions over time, causing lip distortion and difficulty with activities like speaking, eating and kissing. They were also difficult to customize, so that also contributed to the unnatural look of older styles of lip implants.In addition to these problems, if a patient later wanted a lip implant removed, the process was difficult and complicated because, over time, the body would begin to absorb the material and the implant would become one with the patient’s face, sometimes in an unnatural position. Bruising, scarring and swelling were frequent side effects of the removal process, and more extensive work was usually needed to restore the patient’s natural lip contours.PermaLip implants, however, are extremely easy to implant; they are even easy to remove if the patient later feels that is necessary. Otherwise, PermaLip lip implants can stay put and perform well and naturally for years and years. They are made out of a soft, non-reactive silicone that has a natural feel and texture when inserted inside the lip. Patients rave about how natural these lips feel when eating, talking and even kissing.Another thing that patients enjoy about PermaLip lip augmentation is that they are more customizable than previous styles of lip implants. They are tapered at each end to prevent the “cigarette roll” look and they come in three different widths and three different lengths. The patient can choose either a 3-millimeter, 4-millimeter or 5 millimeter diameter, along with the correct length. The wider the diameter, of course, the bigger the pout.PermaLip implants also do not become incorporated into the body’s other tissues over the course of time. This is an added benefit for those patients who choose this lip augmentation procedure. If the patient later decides to remove the implant for any reason, the removal process is as simple as the original insertion process. The insert just slides right out, and recovery time is minimal.Some patients initially express concern that perhaps the PermaLip lip augmentation inserts will rupture or leak, but they cannot do this. They are made from solid, but soft, flexible silicone that remains inert inside of the lips. There is no liquid component to the implants, so there is no danger of leaking. For most of Dr. Schulman’s patients with PermaLip, however, these implants have lasted and looked great for years and years, so it’s relatively uncommon for him to have a removal request with these particular models.

Is PermaLip Lip Augmentation Better than Injected Solutions?

For years, lip augmentation by way of an injectable fat, collagen or other solution was the standard procedure for people going for the pouty, kissable look. Over the years, more sophisticated injectable solutions were developed, including hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is naturally produced by the body, so adverse allergic reactions are extremely rare.Dr. Schulman also has excellent results using several other non-surgical lip fillers such as Restylane®, Juvederm®, Perlane®, Radiesse®, Sculptra® and Belotero®. These all produce wonderfully natural, plump, pouty puckers and are a good option for many patients on a temporary basis.The keyword here is temporary; lip augmentation injections usually last from about six to nine months, on average. So the main issue that patients have with injected solutions is that they have to be re-injected a couple of times a year to keep the pretty pout going strong. The cost of these repetitive injections can add up over time. Painful, biannual injections and the inconvenience factor of having to schedule the procedure and recover from it regularly can be a turn off for many patients.The PermaLip lip implant, on the other hand, is truly permanent. It stays put and continues to plump up your pucker, so you only have to pay for it one time and then proceed to enjoy life with the fuller lips you’ve always wanted without having to keep paying to have them redone periodically.

What Should I Expect from a PermaLip Implant Procedure?

If you would like to know more about PermaLip lip augmentation or any other lip enhancing procedures, please schedule an appointment to talk with Dr. Schulman personally. He will talk with you about all of the options we can provide and help you plan a procedure that will create the best look and overall outcome for you.If you and Dr. Schulman opt for PermaLip lip augmentation, you’ll schedule another appointment for the short, outpatient procedure. Dr. Schulman will use a local anesthetic and then cut tiny slits on either side of the mouth to slide the PermaLip implant right into the correct area of the lip, or lips. You can have the bottom, top or both lips augmented in this way.Following the lip augmentation, you will probably experience some swelling, pain and tenderness in the area, particularly over the first 24 to 48 hours. Some patients experience minor bruising as well, but this is not common. You should be able to see the final results over the course of the next few days as the swelling continues to go down. Tenderness and light sensitivity can last for about two weeks in most cases. Just be sure to follow Dr. Schulman’s recommendations for recovery for the best outcome.If there is ever a reason you want to have these lip implants removed, the process is fairly straightforward and simple. Once again, tiny incisions will be made on either side of the mouth and Dr. Schulman will simply slide the PermaLip implant right out.If you are curious about the results other patients are getting from PermaLip lip augmentation, we invite you to look through the lip augmentation photo gallery. You might also benefit from hearing Dr. Schulman talk about PermaLip implants on his YouTube channel. But to find out how PermaLip lip augmentation, or any of our other lip augmentation procedures could give you the lips you’ve always wanted, definitely schedule an appointment with Dr. Schulman today.

Why is Plastic Surgery Growing Among Men?

An area of plastic surgery that continues to grow is procedures for men. While men comprise only about 10% of all plastic surgery patients, this number is increasing each year. More men are requesting both surgical and non-surgical procedures for the face and body.

Top Surgical Procedures for Men and their Statistics

According to the official procedural statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgery and the American Aesthetic Society of Plastic Surgeons, the top 5 surgical procedures for men includes nasal surgery (rhinoplasty), eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), male liposuction, male chest reduction (gynecomastia surgery), and hair transplantation.

Hair transplantation For Men

Among these top five surgical procedures, hair transplantation is the fastest growing, increasing about 20% from 2016. This is mostly due to a combination of increased awareness as well as improved technology. Historically, hair transplant surgery involved techniques that were very crude, and resulted in very unnatural results. Oftentimes, the transplanted hair appeared to be “doll-like” and it was very obvious that a procedure was done. This made these procedures undesirable to most men and there was a stigma attached to it. However, there has been significant improvement in the understanding of the procedure and also the technology used.Doctors have become more knowledgeable about creating an appealing hairline. They recognize that the hairline should be softer. This means that the transplanted hairs should be arranged more “randomly” along the front hairline, in order to avoid creating a sharp “wig-like” appearance. This was often not possible in the past since the older technology only allowed for larger clumps of hairs to be transplanted. Modern technology now allows them to harvest and transplant small number of hairs, even individual hair follicles. This means that the doctor can alternate groups of one, two, or three hairs along the hairline. The result is a much more natural appearance. Additionally, the improved technology allows for a much faster (and more discrete) recovery process. Since “donor” areas can be more hidden and heal quicker.

Liposuction for Men

The second fastest growing surgical procedure is liposuction. This can also be partially attributed to improved techniques as well. The use of smaller cannulas allows for smaller scars and faster recovery. Also, the use of newer energy-based liposuction technologies can help decrease bruising and swelling and also help stimulate more skin retraction. Men have also been happy with newer “highlighting” and “etching” techniques that create the appearance of muscle definition and a more masculine physique. There has been a 7% increase in male liposuction procedures since 2016.

Non-Surgical Procedures for Men

Non-surgical procedures are also more common among men. The top five non-surgical or minimally-invasive procedures among men are Botulinum Toxin injections (Botox, Dysport, or Xeomin), laser hair removal, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and soft tissue fillers (Restylane, Juvederm, Radiesse, and Sculptra). Botulinum Toxin injections is the fastest growing of these top non-surgical procedures. Approximately half a million Botulinum Toxin treatments are performed each year on men. This represents a 7% increase since 2016. These are simple injections that are almost painless and require zero recovery time. They are done to reduce or eliminate lines between the eyebrows, on the forehead, and around the eyes. The results last approximately 3 to 4 months.

Why are men requesting more plastic surgery procedures?

So why are men requesting more plastic surgery procedures? As discussed earlier, the increased demand can be partially attributed to improvement in technology and techniques. Modern technologies and techniques allow for more natural results, less pain, and a faster recovery. This applies to all procedures, including those done for women. Those men who have avoided plastic surgery procedures because of fear of scarring, pain, and time off from work are now reconsidering things. Also important is that there has been a reduced stigma surrounding male plastic surgery. 10 to 20 years ago, most people had plastic surgery done in secret. They were hesitant to let people know that they were having a procedure done. Men were even more secretive of plastic surgery procedures. More recently, everyone, including men, have become more open about what they want to have done and what they have had done. This can be credited to social media and television. Men are more open to discussing plastic surgery with others and this makes them more willing to have procedures. This is especially true when it comes to less invasive procedures like Botox, hair transplantation, and liposuction.

Increased desire among men to look better

There is also an increased desire among men to look better. Men are more concerned about their appearance. They want to look better and are no longer accepting of the old adage that men appear more distinguished as they get older. Men are more aware of personal grooming, fashion, and other things designed to look better. This trend may be fueled by millennials who grew up without the plastic surgery stigma and are now pursuing cosmetic procedures. Society may also be putting pressure on men to look better as well. It is not uncommon for a man to have a procedure done in order to help advance personally and professionally. Some men feel that as the workforce becomes more competitive, there is a need to look better…. or younger. The influx of younger men into the workplace may put pressure on the older men to appear younger. There is also pressure within the dating world as well to look better. As you can see, there is a variety of factors that have contributing to the increase number of men having non-surgical and surgical plastic surgery procedures. These are improved techniques and technologies, increased professional and personal pressure to look better or younger, and the reduced stigma surrounding plastic surgery in general. I have seen a growing number of men in my practice and anticipate that this trend will continue in the future. I would not be surprised if the number of men undergoing these procedures becomes 25% of the total plastic surgery procedures within the next 5 years.

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Take a look at our before and after gallery to results of Plastic Surgery for MenContact Schulman Plastic Surgery today to set up your consultation.

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SMART LIPO VS LIPO WHICH IS BEST?

The surge in medical and cosmetic aesthetic technology has led to a market that’s flooded with new devices, products, and procedures, such as Smart Lipo — which all claim to be the “greatest and latest” best thing. But not all new technologies are better than the tried-and-true procedures that have stood the test of time.Therefore, it’s important you do your due diligence in researching and sorting out all this new technology being marketed simultaneously to ensure they’re really as “great” as they claim.As an example, what’s the difference between traditional liposuction and Smart Lipo, and is one better than the other?

WHAT IS TRADITIONAL LIPOSUCTION?

Liposuction (or lipo for short) is one of the most common surgical procedures performed each year in the U.S. Many individuals have areas of their bodies that they wish would be smaller or a different contour. But regardless of how much they exercise or how healthy they eat, they can’t seem to make any substantial improvements. And, for a lot of these people, the small pockets of fat can negatively impact their body satisfaction and confidence. If this is something you’re struggling with, traditional liposuction could be the answer.While liposuction has seen advances and innovations over the past 40 or so years, the modern liposuction procedure dates back to 1974, with roots going back to the 1920’s.Lipo is a minimally invasive treatment that helps remove unwanted fat from just about any area of your body, including your:

• Chin
• Hips
• Abdomen
• Knees
• Flanks
• Chest
• Upper arms
• Thighs

It helps to improve your overall body contours. Doctors can perform liposuction by itself or in combination with other cosmetic procedures such as a:

• Facelift
• Breast augmentation
• Brazilian butt lift
• Neck lift
• Tummy tuck
• Mommy makeover
• And others

It’s important to know, lipo isn’t a substitute for proper exercise and diet or a treatment for obesity. It’s also not an effective cellulite treatment.

WHAT IS SMART LIPO?

Smart Lipo, sometimes written as smartlipo, uses a type of medical device made exclusively for performing laser-assisted lipolysis. It also often called laser liposuction or laser lipolysis. The doctor makes a small incision and inserts a thin tube that contains the Smart Lipo laser fiber in targeted fatty areas.The laser fiber passes on the thermal energy directly to your fat cells, disrupting the fatty tissue for simple removal. It melts the fat, which the doctor then removes with gentle suction. Along with this, tissue around the area starts tightening through coagulation and contributes to a smoother shape overall.

WHAT ARE THE SIMILARITIES BETWEEN SMART LIPO AND TRADITIONAL LIPO?

There are some similarities between the two procedures with respect to their:

1. Body areas: Both procedures can be used for flabby upper arms, love handles and double chin, but they both can also be used for all body areas.
2. Weight loss: Neither traditional lipo or Smart Lipo is considered a weight loss procedure.
3. Look and fit: Both procedures can help you look more defined and fit by removing the fat that covers your muscles.
4. The number of treatments: Both procedures can be done in less than a couple of hours and require only one treatment.
5. Type of procedure: While Smart Lipo is a little less invasive than traditional lipo, it’s still surgery.
6. Anesthesia used: They both require anesthesia (although traditional lipo requires general anesthesia and Smart Lipo uses local anesthesia).

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN SMART LIPO AND TRADITIONAL LIPO?

While both Smartlipo and traditional liposuction are effective for unwanted fat removal, there are some differences between them. These include in their:

1. Technique: Traditional lipo uses physical manipulation and a cannula to suction your fat from under your skin. Smart Lipo uses laser heat for liquefying or softening the fat/
2. Type of procedure: Smart Lipo is considered less invasive than traditional liposuction.
3. Candidacy: Smart Lipo is more geared to individuals within 20 percent of their ideal body weight and is only struggling with a stubborn exercise- and diet-resistant pocket of excess fat, while traditional liposuction can help people who have more volume they’d like to reduce.
4. Recovery: Traditional lipo can have a little longer recovery time with some swelling, bruising and soreness that could last several weeks. You may also need to use compression garments for up to six weeks. Smart Lipo usually provides a quicker recovery, but you still need to usually wait for a few weeks for strenuous activities and still need compression garments for four to six weeks.

WHICH IS BEST: SMART LIPO OR TRADITIONAL LIPO?

Keep in mind, what really makes the difference is your surgeon’s hand, qualifications, and experience, not the device. Lipo, whether it’s laser-assisted or traditional, is a surgical procedure. Beyond having to meet “general surgeon” requirements, your New York City liposuction doctor should be an expert in aesthetics (balance, proportion, symmetry) and beauty. Their favorite tool for fat removal and creating pleasing contours isn’t as important as their experience and qualifications.If you’re looking for minimal downtime, don’t have much volume to remove, or would rather be awake during your procedure, Smart Lipo may be for you. However, if you require a good deal of volume removed and are comforted by a procedure that has been performed for nearly 40-plus years, traditional lipo is likely the better choice.Everyone can benefit from liposuction, whether it’s traditional or Smart Lipo. Traditional lipo, however, has been around longer and is more well-established. Many patients prefer going with the time-tested procedure of traditional lipo.But, no matter what, liposuction can be what leads you into a more balanced, healthier life. And, once it’s helped remove those fatty areas that exercise and diet wasn’t able to if could boost your confidence and motivation.

REQUEST A LIPOSUCTION CONSULTATION

If you’re interested in learning more about a tummy tuck and liposuction, contact New York City Plastic Surgery expert Dr. Schulman would love to help you. Dr. Matthew Schulman is only one of the few in the New York City area who is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon.Our friendly staff is here to assist you in setting up your appointment for your initial consultation and talk to you about your tummy tuck and liposuction options. We may even be able to combine the two. Therefore, if you’re ready to start loving the image you see in the mirror and gain more confidence, contact us today by completing our online form or calling us at (212) 289-1851.

UNDERSTANDING THE BEFORE AND AFTER OF LIPOSUCTION

Many individuals struggle with excess fat on their body. When exercise and a healthy diet fail to eliminate these unwanted fat bulges, liposuction is often a great option for achieving your desired body contour. It’s often referred to as “lipo” and helps to slim and reshape certain areas of your body by removing these excess fat deposits and improving the proportion and contours of your body.Lipo can target numerous body areas, including your:

• Thighs
• Hips
• Abdominal region
• Neck and Jaw
• Arms

Liposuction is the most common plastic surgery procedure in the United States, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, with over 400,000 lipo procedures done annually.Knowing exactly what you can expect before and after liposuction and following your doctor’s post-care instructions can help you achieve those amazing results you’re looking for.

WHAT TO EXPECT BEFORE LIPOSUCTION

Before deciding on liposuction, you should understand what liposuction does and doesn’t do.Generally speaking, liposuction helps you become “a smaller version of you” by removing excess fat. It provides body shaping and contouring. Most individuals having lipo are highly satisfied with their results, and if given the chance, would do it again.An important concept to understand thought is what liposuction doesn’t do. For instance, it doesn’t tighten loose muscles or skin. If your tummy jiggles, it will likely jiggle after your procedure. If your muscles are loose, they’ll be loose after lipo. If you have stretch marks or cellulite, you’ll have them after your procedure.While liposuction may help you to lose some weight (generally one to ten pounds), that’s not the primary goal of liposuction. Lipo is intended to help you shape and contour your body in the areas you’re concerned about. You should also know that like with any surgery, there are risks, which you should discuss with your plastic surgeon.

ARE YOU A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR LIPOSUCTION?

Before setting up your New York City Liposuction appointment, you’ll first want to know if you’re even a good candidate for this procedure. Again, realistic expectations are important. Lipo is a surgical procedure and it does come with its own risks. So, you’ll need to be healthy before you undergo it. This means you need to at least:

• Have elastic, firm skin
• Be within 30 percentof your ideal weight
• Have a positive and realistic outlook for your liposuction results
• Are bothered by excess fat deposit, but haven’t been successful in losing them through diet and exercise.

Good candidates for liposuction:

• Don’t smoke
• Don’t have blood flow issues
• Don’t have diabetes
• Don’t have heart disease
• Don’t a weak immune system

Additionally, if you have an abundant amount of loose-hanging skin, liposuction may not be right for you, but speak to your plastic surgeon to discuss your specific situation.

GETTING PREPARED FOR LIPO

Your first step will be to consult with the plastic surgeon. Discuss your goals, the benefits and risks, the options and costs. Make sure you ask them all your questions. If you do decide to have lipo, your plastic surgeon will provide you with instructions on how you should prepare for it properly.These may include:

• Telling you about alcohol and diet restrictions.
• Asking you for information on any allergies you have or if you’re taking any medications, including herbal and over-the-counter supplements or drugs. They’ll likely ask you to stop taking specific medications like certain painkillers or blood thinners a few weeks before your procedure.
• Telling you to have someone to take you home after your procedure.
• Being prepared that you may need to stay overnight if you’re having a great deal of fat removed and you need to have the surgery performed in the hospital.

Before your procedure begins, the surgeon may mark up the body areas you’ll receive treatment. They might also take photos to use for “before and after” pictures.Your surgeon may give you general anesthesia, meaning you will be asleep during the procedure. In some cases, you might only need local anesthesia, meaning you’ll be awake, but won’t feel any pain.

WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER LIPOSUCTION

After your surgery, you can expect to experience some:

• Mild discomfort
• Redness
• Bruising
• Swelling

Your doctor may prescribe you medication to ease this discomfort. You’ll likely need to wear a compression garment to promote healing and reduce swelling. Swelling typically starts reducing after your first week, but you’ll still need to wear the compression garments until week four or as your surgeon directs. You may experience swelling that lasts longer than six weeks, however, usually within a few days, you’re comfortable enough to go back to work.During the procedure, the surgeon will make small incisions to remove the extra fat cells. They’re made in inconspicuous places where they’re less noticeable. The surgeon will provide you with post-care instructions for these incisions after your surgery. The instructions will help ensure they heal with minimal scarring.It’s likely you won’t see immediate results. If anything, you may even feel like you’ve gained weight or appear larger in the treated area for a short time. This is normal. Although lipo can eliminate up to 10 pounds of fat cells, swelling and fluid retention can make you appear bloated. Once the swelling begins going down, you’ll start seeing results.You might also notice some of your skin in the treated area appears loose. This skin should firm up over time. But, depending on various factors like how much fat was removed and your age, you might require surgical intervention to tighten up the skin. Each individual is different and your surgeon will talk about skin tightening with you as part of your body contour procedure if needed.Depending on the amount of fat removed, you should expect to see your final results within one to three months following your procedure. With just one procedure, you can expect noticeable changes and improvements to your body’s contours. Remember, results may vary for each individual, and before and after photos and content do not guarantee specific results.

REQUEST A LIPOSUCTION CONSULTATION

Now that you know what to expect before and after liposuction, it’s time to contact New York City Plastic Surgery with Dr. Schulman.  Dr. Matthew Schulman is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon who welcomes patients not only in the New York City Area, but also embraces traveling patients who live “out of town”.*Disclaimer: Results may vary from person to person. Editorial content, before and after images, and patient testimonials do not constitute a guarantee of specific results.

Plastic Surgery Procedure Guide: 10 Steps to a Gorgeous New You

A beautifully successful plastic surgery experience is, at its core, a team effort. As a patient, it’s essential for you to be educated, informed and prepared for the before, during and after process to get the results you desire. It’s also critical to do your homework and select a board-certified plastic surgeon who has the skills, expertise and experience to help you make your dreams come true. So before you do anything else, look through our comprehensive Plastic Surgery Procedure Guide: 10 Steps to a Gorgeous New You: 

1. Research Your Plastic Surgery

First things first: do your homework! Dr. Schulman, our board-certified plastic surgeon in New York City makes it incredibly easy for people considering a plastic surgery procedure to learn about each and every possible operation, in-depth, in a number of ways. In fact, this is one of the reasons why 40 percent of his patients travel long distances from outside of New York to work with Dr. Schulman. 

• Spend some time Googling before and after photos of the procedure you are interested in, whether it’s a breast augmentation or reduction, a tummy tuck, a Brazilian butt lift, a Mommy Makeover, or any other procedure.
• Download Snapchat and subscribe to Dr. Schulman’s daily video series at @nycplasticsurg. His Snapchat Plastic Surgery video stories have helped thousands of patients get informed by viewing plastic surgery close up, in the office. It’s an active, informative way to learn about the before, during and after process, as well as getting to know everyone you’ll work with in our office. Naturally, you can also follow him on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
• Be sure to talk with friends and family members and pay attention to those all-important word-of-mouth referrals from other happy patients.
• Also visit review sites like realself.com, healthgrades.com and Yelp! to learn more and make sure that your doctor is a board-certified plastic surgeon who abides by the highest standards and safest procedures.

 

2. Call Dr. Schulman to Schedule a Consultation

After you’ve researched your desired plastic surgery procedure and watched Dr. Schulman’s @nycplasticsurg Snapchat videos, call our office at 212-289-1851 to talk with one of our friendly receptionists, or, if you prefer, you can fill out the form on our contact us page.When you call, feel free to ask any questions about the procedure you’re interested in. Our office staff are very knowledgeable about all of our procedures and their estimated pricing and can answer many of your questions over the phone.When you schedule your first consultation, we’ll get the following information from you:

• Name and contact information
• Because demand is high, we’ll also need your credit card information (to hold your appointment). We’ll tell you about our 48-hour cancelation policy on the phone as well.
• We’ll send you an email, text and phone reminder three days ahead of your appointment, just to touch base with you.

 

3. How to Prepare for Your Plastic Surgery Consultation Appointment

We recommend that you come 15 to 20 minutes early to your consultation appointment so that you have ample time to fill out the necessary paperwork.After you complete all the necessary forms, our Physician Assistant will call you in to begin the appointment. We’ll record your height, weight and go over your medical history during this phase. We’ll also discuss the procedure you’re interested in and take notes for Dr. Schulman to go over with you when he talks with you.Then you’ll get to meet with Dr. Schulman personally to consult with him about the plastic surgery procedure you want. During your appointment, he will evaluate your medical history and examine you to determine whether or not you are a good candidate for your desired procedure.Dr. Schulman will discuss with you, in detail, how the procedure works, if there are alternative procedures that would be more suitable, what the normal recovery time is and what realistic outcomes you can expect. He will also be happy to answer any questions you have after his evaluation and consultation.He will also discuss your medical clearance with you—this is essential for your health and safety during the procedure, and it is our top priority.After meeting with Dr. Schulman, you will spend some time with our patient coordinator to discuss pricing and financing options. We’ll also look at the calendar to discuss scheduling your operation. 

4. Booking Your Plastic Surgery

You have a couple of options for scheduling your surgery:

• If you feel confident about everything you discussed at your consultation, you can book your pre-operative appointment and surgery day in the office before you leave.
• If you need some extra time to check your schedule (and that of your post-operative chaperone), just call us back at 212-289-1851 and talk with our surgical scheduler over the phone to set a date.

Note: Keep in mind that Dr. Schulman is usually booking about 2 to 4 months in advance right now, due to high demand. After setting a date, you will sign the booking paperwork, which includes a financial agreement and a medical clearance consent form (so we can check with your physician that surgery will be safe for you).You will also need to pay the 10 percent deposit to hold your surgery date in place.After you’ve set a date, you’ll need to follow any recommendations Dr. Schulman provides in order to properly prepare yourself for surgery. We will help you all along the way, and you’ll have another pre-operative appointment to make sure you’re on track for a successful plastic surgery. 

5. Attend Your Pre-Operative Appointment

This appointment is extremely important as it will cover all of the things you need to be ready for on surgery day. This appointment includes:

• Signing your plastic surgery consent form packet. These forms will authorize us to go ahead with sculpting your new, improved self.
• You’ll meet again with our Physician Assistant who will describe the process of preparing for your surgery, what to expect on the day of surgery and how important following the recovery guidelines is to the final outcome of your procedure.
• After talking with our Physician Assistant, you will talk with Dr. Schulman again to discuss operation specifics. He will answer last minute questions and make sure that you feel confident and fully informed about what to do and how to prepare for surgery day.
• You’ll also get your “before” photos taken during this appointment so that you can compare them to the “after” photos once you’ve recovered from surgery several weeks later!
• During this appointment, you should also purchase any post-operative recovery items that you will need, such as a BBL Recovery Kit, Scar Gel, etc. Our staff is very knowledgeable and will help you to know what you will need.
• You will also fill prescriptions for post-operative medications at this time so you have them and they are ready to go the day of your surgery.
• At the end of the appointment, once you have signed everything and gotten your post-operative medicines and supplies, you’ll make your final payment for the operation.

  

6. One Week before Plastic Surgery: How to Prepare

Although the pre-operative appointment a few weeks prior is extremely comprehensive, we also give you a call one week before hand to make sure you’re fully prepared for surgery day. We’ll confirm with you the following details:

• Where and at what time you need to arrive for the surgery.
• Last minute instructions about how to prepare in the days leading up to your operation.
• That you have a chaperone scheduled to take you home after surgery.

Make sure to follow all of your preparatory instructions carefully so that everything will go smoothly that day. 

 7. Plastic Surgery Day!

Bring all of the things with you that you were instructed to bring and arrive at the surgical facility an hour before the surgery is scheduled to begin. Here’s what to expect that day:

• You’ll complete any final surgical forms, then meet with Dr. Schulman’s nurse to begin prepping you for the operation.
• You’ll be given an intravenous antibiotic and other medications at this time.
• The anesthesiologist will meet with you and discuss everything and answer your questions about the anesthesia process.
• Then Dr. Schulman will come in and mark your body for the surgery.
• After you’ve been prepped, you will be given relaxation medications and then the anesthesiologist will administer the anesthesia and you will go to sleep for the surgery.

 

8. Recovery Time

After you come out of surgery, you will spend 1 to 2 hours in our recovery room. During that time, we’ll check all of your vital signs and ensure that you are in stable condition for going home.We will also talk with your chaperone and release you to him or her when you are ready. Your chaperone will be given discharge instructions for your immediate post-operative care at home.Make sure to take good care of yourself and follow all the instructions we give you! 

9. Your First Post-Operative Appointment

About a week to 10 days after your surgery, you’ll have a follow-up appointment with our Physician Assistant to evaluate how well you are healing and answer any of your questions. If you need to purchase any additional recovery items, this is a good time to do it. Frequently, we have patients who need to purchase extra scar gel, surgical compression garments or recovery kits.At this appointment, you’ll also make another follow-up appointment with Dr. Schulman about 2 to 3 weeks later so that he can evaluate your progress and answer any further questions you may have. 

10. Don’t Miss Any Follow-Up Appointments!

Follow-up appointments are very important for your full recovery and to make sure that you get the results you were dreaming about when you first started Googling plastic surgery and watching Dr. Schulman’s Snapchat videos on @nycplasticsurg. It may seem like a long process, and it is—re-sculpting and re-shaping your body and, therefore, your life, is a process that requires time and commitment from the patient and a high level of skill and commitment from your board-certified plastic surgeon. Like we said, it’s a team effort through and through. So make sure to attend the following appointments:

• First post-operative appointment (listed above), a week to 10 days after your surgery to make sure everything is healing nicely.
• The second post-surgery appointment with Dr. Schulman, between 6 and 8 weeks after the operation. At that time, he will personally evaluate how well you are healing and discuss the results with you. You’ll also get your “after” photos taken at this time so you can compare them to your “before” photos! This is one of our patients’ favorite moments!

Take a look at our before and after gallery to get an idea of what kind of results you can expect. (Simply click on the links along the left side to choose before and after pictures of the procedures you’re interested in.) You can also visit our latest blog posts, such as this one on Brazilian butt lift surgery, to learn more about various procedures. Dr. Schulman likes his patients to have as much information about procedures and potential outcomes as possible so they are well informed and successful in helping us make their plastic surgery dreams come true!Dr. Schulman and our whole team are committed to making sure you have the most amazing plastic surgery experience! To ask questions or schedule your consultation appointment, contact us at 212-289-1851. We look forward to working with you!Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Snapchat @nycplasticsurg

Why Smaller Breast Implants are Getting Bigger in Popularity

Fashion trends are always shifting, and the biggest one lately is going small; not just smaller clothing, but smaller breasts. Some of the most popular celebrity busts are shrinking: Pamela Anderson, Victoria Beckham, Tamra Barney, Heidi Montag are some examples of celebrities who have clearly had smaller implants or reductions done, but they are not the only ones. If you have been researching breast augmentation trends for yourself, you have probably seen some of the recent before and after pictures of these and other female celebrities who have chosen a smaller cup size.For years, women undergoing breast augmentation surgeries have subscribed to the “go big or go home” and “bigger is better” mantras, but the celebrity trend of having bigger implants replaced by smaller breast implants—or having them removed completely—is starting to catch on with women across the country. Every day, I am working with…

• Women who need to have their silicone breast implants updated and are opting for smaller replacements
• Women who are getting implants for the first time who are choosing a more modest augmentation than they might have chosen in previous years
• Women who previously had larger breast implants, but are now choosing to get them downsized as a matter of taste.

As a New York City Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, I talk to at least a dozen women each week who want breast augmentation surgery. They bring in magazine clippings of Jennifer Aniston, Halle Berry and Meghan Fox—women with the most popularly-requested celebrity bust lines in breast augmentation surgery. During these initial visits, I’ve clearly noticed a decrease in the percentage of women requesting D and DD cups, but an increase in the percentage of women requesting beautiful, but more modest C and full B cups.

Factors behind the Smaller Breast Augmentation Trend

Of course, one of the important things I have to discuss with my patients is the fact that their breast augmentation really needs to “fit” them, whether it’s a considerable size increase, or just a modest one. And frankly, my patients are very savvy and already have a good idea of what type of augmentation will enhance their figure without looking awkward and unnatural. In fact, looking natural is one of the biggest reasons behind the “smaller is better” trend in breast implant surgeries. These are some of the things women are considering as we discuss their own breast augmentation possibilities:

• Smaller breast implants appear more natural. The larger the breast implant, the more “artificial” it will look, particularly on a woman with a smaller frame. A smaller breast implant will have a more natural shape and texture while still being larger than the originals. Another thing that surprises many women who get larger implants is the stretch marks that might occur on the skin; the risk of needing to deal with stretch marks is dramatically reduced with smaller implants.
• Enhancement without unwanted gawking. Many women want breast augmentations to enhance their overall appearance without drawing excessive or unwanted attention to themselves. They don’t want to hear the loud whispers of, “Those can’t be real,” or worse behind their backs. A smaller implant helps you avoid these awkward moments.
• Thinking about the future surgeries. A smaller, more natural breast augmentation surgery is less likely to look “dated” years down the line when fashions change. One of the reasons I’m seeing an increase in breast enhancement procedures is that women are going back under the knife to have larger implants reduced to smaller ones. Of course, there is always the chance that a woman who got smaller implants may want larger ones down the line. But that is why I always spend a lot of time working with my patients before surgery to make sure we plan augmentation procedures that they will love for a long time to come.
• Medical reasons for smaller breast implants. Smaller implants mean smaller incisions, smaller scars and fewer back problems—yes, back problems. Many women who request larger breast implants have to adjust to the new chest weight, which can cause muscle strains in the neck, shoulders and back.
• Smaller breast implants enable more versatile clothing options. As I mentioned earlier, fashion is constantly changing; a smaller breast augmentation surgery will keep you within the range of normal for looking great in most prêt-à-porter clothing options as styles change.
• Smaller implants don’t interfere as much with athletic activities. More and more women are concerned not just with staying in shape at a baseline level; many want to compete in serious athletic competitions of their choice. The smaller the breast implant, the easier it will be to find proper support wear and to engage in rigorous activity with minimal discomfort. And as I mentioned earlier, smaller breasts look more natural on slim, fit bodies.

In the end, our ultimate goal with any breast augmentation surgery is to help you look your very best. Don’t get your heart set on a specific cup size just because it looks great on Pamela Anderson or Jennifer Aniston, or even just your best friend. Your body is unique and we need to discuss options that will work best for your shape, your lifestyle and your desired appearance goals.I suggest looking through our breast augmentation surgery FAQ and the other pages in ourlibrary to learn more about the surgery and what is involved. You may also find out a lot byvisiting my Instagram page (@nycplasticsurg) and my Snapchat plastic surgery channel (@nycplasticsurg) where you can see the surgeries, office visits, recoveries and results, almost as they happen, on a daily basis. Of course, the best way to get started on your breast augmentation journey is to schedule an appointment for a consultation online or just call us at 212-289- 1851 today. We look forward to hearing from you.

Check Out Dr. Schulman’s Snapchat Plastic Surgery Videos

Snapchat is no longer only the domain of teenagers sending bathroom selfies to each other; it has become a serious and legitimate channel for anyone who wants to learn more about the process behind high-quality plastic surgery. You all know about the classic "before and after plastic surgery pictures; but now Snapchat gives our potential patients the opportunity to make informed decisions about the process because they can see what happens during the surgery and well into the whole recovery process as well—between the before and after, if you will. To see it all for yourself, set up your Snapchat account and subscribe to Dr. Schulman’s channel: @nycplasticsurg.

What Can You See on Dr. Schulman’s Snapchat Plastic Surgery Account?

If you don’t have a Snapchat account, it’s easy to download the app and set up an account on your mobile device. Typical “snaps” sent between friends will disappear 10 seconds after the recipient opens them. But Dr. Schulman uses “Story” mode to post daily collections of 10-second videos that are available to view as many times as you want for up to 24 hours. You can basically watch an entire day at the office with Dr. Schulman, his team and his patients if you want. It's an intimate, accurate way to see what things are really like, and he's not afraid to show you!The typical daily collection of videos consist of during-surgery Brazilian Butt Lifts, Breast augmentations and reductions, facelifts, liposuction (for men and women), neck lifts, lip implants, “Mommy Makeovers” and more. In fact, nearly a quarter of the surgery videos he posts highlight Dr. Schulman repairing failed plastic surgeries that patients received from less-than-reputable sources. These videos are extremely popular, and Dr. Schulman has a great reputation across the Eastern Seaboard for being the trusted authority in this area. In addition to the operating room videos, Dr. Schulman also posts videos of the recovery process for many patients as well as other things we do in the office to serve our clients.While there are other plastic surgeons putting wacky office shenanigans videos up on Snapchat too, Dr. Schulman, who is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, sticks to the professional and educational. These procedures are major surgeries that include important preparation for the patients, as well as a fairly intensive recovery process. It’s important to him that you know exactly what to expect during any one of these surgeries so that you can make an informed decision and get the results you really want. Plastic surgery is a collaborative process and Dr. Schulman has regularly seen that the better educated his patients are, the better the results will be.

Who is Watching Dr. Schulman?

In a word: millennials. Of course there are many other segments of society watching, but millennials swim in the ocean of social media and want to see how things work in real video before making major decisions like undergoing plastic surgery. They are research junkies and want to know as much as possible ahead of time. Dr. Schulman thinks this is a great thing and he's running with it.When Dr. Schulman started posting plastic surgery videos to Snapchat a little over a year ago, he had only a few followers—mostly just the folks here in the office and a few friends. But once word got out to people interested in how the surgeries could help them achieve their ideal body, and what to expect from these surgeries, his following exploded. He currently logs well over a million views of his videos each day. And although Snapchat doesn’t keep a log of how many regular followers a person has, Dr. Schulman’s Instagram account (nycplasticsurg) currently logs 19,000 regular followers. The benefit of Snapchat over Instagram, of course, is that videos can provide so much more detail behind the intensive process of plastic surgery than static photographs (although they most definitely have their place in the research and education process as well).

Why @nycplasticsurg on Snapchat is a Good Thing

Dr. Schulman has received a lot of press regarding his Snapchat channel recently, and naturally, people have had a lot of questions. One of the biggest concerns journalists have asked about is whether or not bringing Snapchat into the operating room is a distraction for him. The answer is a resounding “No."In addition to being one of the most respected plastic surgeons in the nation, Dr. Schulman is a Professor of Plastic surgery, constantly teaching residents in the operating room and explaining procedures to his students at one of the top plastic surgery schools in the country. A separate staff member is always in charge of filming the surgery while he does what he always does: perform high-quality plastic surgery while teaching about the process as it happens. In fact, aside from people who are thinking about undergoing surgery, another huge segment of his Snapchat following are plastic surgery students. He is 100 percent focused on the patient at all times.Journalists and prospective patients also ask about privacy issues regarding having their plastic surgery broadcast to millions of viewers on Snapchat and other social media platforms. Dr. Schulman will not post anything unless the patient signs a consent form first—and he also respects each individual patient’s wishes for exactly what does or doesn’t end up in a Snapchat video post. And strangely enough, the majority of patients are more than eager to share their experiences in order to help other patients and potential patients through their decision-making, preparation and recovery processes. In fact, there is now a sense of community among patients that has evolved through his Snapchat channel; a development that makes a great positive impact on a patient's ability to research, decide, prepare, undergo and recover.Have you been watching Dr. Schulman’s Snapchat videos and are ready to take the next step? Just schedule an appointment for a consultation online or call us today at 212-289-1851.