Tag Archive for: Plastic Surgery

October 16, 2023/in Belly button surgery, Brazilian Butt Lift, Plastic Surgery /by Dr. Matthew Schulman

Dr. Schulman would like to mention his 3 most common plastic surgery procedures in NYC. These procedures included cosmetic procedures of the face and body, as well as reconstructive surgery from head to toe.

To come up with his “Top 3”, He looked at several factors including the number of cosmetic procedures performed, media requests about these cosmetic procedures, and overall demand.

#3 Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation, often called a “boob job,” enhances breast size using implants or fat transfer. It restores volume, shape, and symmetry.

Breast augmentation surgery achieves:

Enhanced breast fullness and projection
Improved breast-hip contour balance
Boosted self-image and confidence.

Dr. Schulman does a lot breast augmentations each year with plastic surgery patients coming from all over the country to book these popular cosmetic surgery procedures. Plastic surgery patients usually come for more than one procedure and combine breast augmentation with other procedures like tummy tuck and breast lift.

Umbilicoplasty

The demand for belly button surgery or Umbilicoplasty has continued to increase over the past several years. Common requests are to make an “outie” into an “inne”, remove that overhanging “hood” of skin, or remove the remnants of a belly button piercing. The beauty of this procedure is that I can perform a significant improvement in the comfort of my office, using only local anesthetic and under 45 minutes.

My patients complain of only a small amount of soreness that lasts for 1-2 days afterwards, making this an extremely easy recovery as far as plastic surgery procedures go. In 2011, I performed several belly button surgeries per week, and drew patients from all over the tri-state area and as far away as London. I have basically become known as “the belly button plastic surgeon” because I perform a large number of this very uncommon procedure.

Brazilian Butt Lift

Requests for the Brazilian butt lift has definitely increased. With continued media focus on Beyonce, JLo, and Pippa Middleton, request for a lifted and fuller backside was through the roof. To improve the shape of the buttock, Dr. Schulman uses a new plastic surgery technique that combines liposuction and fat injection. Commonly known as the Brazilian Butt Lift, this technique involves removing fat from the areas around the buttock (the outer thighs and lower back), processing this fat, and reinjecting it into the buttock.

The result is a rounder, fuller, and more lifted backside. While there are many plastic surgeons performing this procedure, Dr. Schulman has added several techniques to the procedure that I think improves my results and increases fat survival. In addition to meticulous liposuction and fat harvesting techniques, He adds specialized growth factors to the fat before he reinjects it.

This addition of growth factors is unique to my practice and it is one of the reasons why people are choosing me over the numerous other surgeons offering Brazilian Butt Lifts.

Questions and Answers

What are the 5 most common plastic surgeries?

The most popular cosmetic procedures include breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, eyelid surgery, tummy tuck, and facelift.

What is the most requested plastic surgery procedure?

Breast Augmentation (298,568 procedures, up 4% from 2019) Abdominoplasty (161,948 procedures, up 37% from 2019) Breast Lift (143,364 procedures, up 30% from 2019) Eyelid Surgery (115,261 procedures, up 13% from 2019)

What is the hardest plastic surgery to recover from?

These procedures below do take the longest to recover.

Liposuction (up to three months)
Tummy Tuck (2-3 months)
Facelift (two months)
Breast Reduction (two months)
Breast Augmentation (six weeks)
Rhinoplasty (six weeks)

What plastic surgery is the most difficult?

Rhinoplasty is commonly acknowledged as one of the most challenging cosmetic surgeries. Even minor nasal contour adjustments demand deep knowledge of nasal anatomy, precise surgical skills, and awareness of potential complications.

Book a Plastic Surgery Consultation

To learn more about popular plastic surgery procedures at Schulman Plastic Surgery in NYC, book you cosmetic surgery consultation by calling 212-289-1851. Plastic surgeons like Dr. Matthew Schulman are experts at surgical procedures and minimally invasive cosmetic procedures so do not hesitate to book your consultation.

October 14, 2023/in Botox-Assisted-Breast-Augmentation, Breast Augmentation /by Dr. Matthew Schulman

As a specialist in cosmetic breast surgery, I perform a large number of NYC breast augmentations. While over 300,000 breast augmentations were performed in the U.S. in 2011, not all of them were good ones. Breast Augmentations may appear easy to do, as evidenced by the countless poorly trained and inappropriate doctors trying to do this surgery. However, breast augmentation is very difficult to do really well and the revision rate for breast augmentation remains very high nationally. In my practice, I strive for natural-results, minimal breast augmentation complications, and a rapid recovery. I have created a technique for breast augmentation that I think helps me to achieve my goals. While perfection is impossible, I think I get pretty close.

Ultra-Short Breast Augmentation Scars Technique

My breast augmentations are performed using an ultra-short breast augmentation scars technique in which the incision is only slightly longer than an inch. The breast implants are then placed through this tiny incision using the aid of a Keller Funnel. This funnel helps to get the breast implant in through the small incision, but it also helps decrease complications such as infection, capsular contracture, and breast implant rupture.

I have also added Botox to my breast augmentations. Yes, you read that correctly. When done correctly, Botulinum toxin can be used to help achieve a more rapid and less painful recovery. I place very small amount of Botox into very specific areas of the chest muscle. This helps to relax the muscles, without interfering with the function of the chest muscles. The result is less pain and also a more rapid “settling” of the breast implants.

I created this Botox-Assisted Breast Augmentation scars technique and truly believe it will revolutionize breast augmentation surgery. I have been performing this procedure for several years and have worked out specifically where to inject the toxin and how much toxin is needed. I have already read about other doctors utilizing this technique and in some cases, claiming it as their own.

Aside from it being unprofessional for a doctor to purposefully mislead patients into thinking someone else’s procedure is theirs, it is also potentially dangerous to you the patient – incorrect injection of Botox can interfere with normal muscle function of the chest and arms, and incorrect dosing can potentially lead to toxicity and death.

We have all heard about Botox to reduce lines and wrinkles in the face. But I now use it in a totally new way – in your breasts. Yep, you heard that right. I perform a Botox-Assisted Breast Augmentation surgery. This involves injected Botulinum Toxin into the chest muscle during breast augmentation. Temporarily weakening the chest muscles during a breast augmentation serves several purposes:

Botox Is No Longer Just For Your Face

Less pain
Reduced feeling of “tightness”
More rapid return to normal activities
Faster “final result”

When a breast implant is placed beneath the chest (pectoralis) muscle, the muscle needs to be cut. This is the cause for the intense post-operative pain that many women feel in their chest during the first several days or weeks after surgery. Also, the healing muscle can cause painful muscle spasms for months after the procedure. By temporarily weakening the muscle surgery with Botox (or a Botox-equivalent from another company), there is significantly less pain and spasms during the healing process.

This allows my patients to take less pain medication and return to normal activity quicker. Also, because the muscle is relaxed, there is less feeling of “tightness” in the chest.

Even more important is that Botox-Assisted Breast Augmentation allows my patients to achieve the “final result” in a matter of WEEKS instead of MONTHS. The relaxed muscle allows the breast implant to drop into position much more rapidly than it would if the muscle was not partially paralyzed with Botox. With my technique, you can avoid that 3-4 month period of awkwardness when the implants are sitting too high on the chest.

The effects of the Botolinum Toxin begin in a few days and lasts for about 4 months. There is no permanent effect on your body and the dose that is used is not much more than someone would have injected into their face to reduce lines and wrinkles.

Now, You Can Add Botox To Breast Surgery To Ease Recovery

“During a Botox-assisted breast augmentation procedure , a precise amount of Botox is injected directly into the chest muscle from the inside. The Botox will relax the muscles for about three to four months,” Dr. Schulman told Byrdie.

Relaxing the chest muscles reduces muscle spasms as they heal, meaning less pain and shorter breast augmentation recovery time. It also improves the look of your new breasts. “Usually after traditional breast augmentation, the implants can appear to be high on the chest for about six months,” Dr. Schulman said. “This is normal, but high implants can look unattractive or very fake.”

When Dr. Schulman uses Botox to relax the muscles, however, the implants drop into a pleasing final position within four to six weeks.

One of Dr. Schulman’s patients — 31-year-old Jennifer, who works in Manhattan — told the New York Daily News about her experience with Botox-assisted breast surgery: “I felt great, like I didn’t have it done. I was back to work in a few days. The implants settled quickly.”

As far as risks go, Dr. Schulman says, “When done correctly, it has no negative effect on the chest muscle and will not interfere with any chest or arm strength.”

Less Post-Op Pain Faster Time to see Final Results

According to statistics released by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), nearly 13.1 million surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures were performed in 2010, a 39% increase in the last decade. Breast augmentation led all cosmetic surgeries with 296,203 procedures performed.

Matthew R. Schulman, M.D. board certified plastic surgeon and Assistant Professor of Plastic Surgery at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine has introduced a new method of breast augmentation using Botulinum Toxin, or Botox. According to Dr. Schulman Botox-Assisted Breast Augmentation has two major advantages – less post-operative pain and a more rapid final cosmetic result.

“In comparing Breast Augmentation surgery cases done with and without Botox, our before and after photos show those surgeries done with Botox reveal one month results comparable to the four month results of surgeries done without Botox.”

The procedure is done as a standard breast enhancement surgery where the breast implant is placed under the muscle. (This is the preferred position of implantation.) After the muscle has been elevated, Botulinum Toxin is then injected into the muscle before the implant is placed. This partially paralyzes the chest muscle, resulting in less muscle spasms that naturally occurs during the healing process, and dramatically reduces patient discomfort.

“The most exciting outcome we have seen with Botox-Assisted Breast Augmentation is the rapid achievement of the final cosmetic result,” says Schulman. Because the muscle is relaxed, the implant can drop into position faster. After surgery, implants will naturally appear higher on the chest as the chest muscle is contracting against the implant. With regular breast augmentation it takes about three to four MONTHS for the implants to drop into the desired position.

By paralyzing the muscle with Botox-Assisted Breast Augmentation, implants can settle into position in about three to four WEEKS.

According to Dr. Schulman, with Botox-Assisted Breast Augmentation there is less pain and a more rapid return to normal activities. Additionally, patients have a better overall cosmetic appearance in a shorter amount of time – getting them into halter tops, strapless dresses and bikinis faster!!

Contact Us to Book Your Consultation

For more information regarding Botox Assisted Breast Augmentation patients, to set-up an interview with Dr. Schulman or to view some dramatic before and after images, contact Dr. Sculman of Schulman Plastic Surgery NYC at 212.289.1851.

References

https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/plastic-surgery-statistics?sub=2011+Plastic+Surgery+Statistics

September 29, 2023/in Plastic Surgery, Smooth Tuck, Tummy Tuck /by Dr. Matthew Schulman

As a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Assistant Professor of Plastic Surgery at The Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City, I am always looking for the latest advances in cosmetic plastic surgery and reconstructive surgery. Techniques and Technologies are constantly evolving.

Many of these new methods are really nothing new, but every once in a while something really exciting comes along that allows me to offer my patients better results with less pain, recovery, and scarring. There have been a few of these advances that I am really excited about.

These include surgical procedures like Smooth Tuck®, Keller Funnel™, and PermaLip™.

Smooth Tuck®

Smooth Tuck® is a surgical technique that I developed as a less invasive alternative to the traditional tummy tuck. Smooth Tuck® is a unique combination of high volume liposuction of the upper and lower abdomen and flanks, with removal of excess skin, and repositioning and rejuvenation of the belly button. Who is a candidate? Someone who is a good candidate for the traditional tummy tuck but desires a procedure with high the recovery and pain.

Also, people who are considered “too obese” for a traditional tummy tuck are good candidates because of the high volume liposuction. Compared to the traditional tummy tuck, Smooth Tuck® removes 3 times as much fat (an average of 3 liters), back to work in 7-10 days (compared to 14-21 days), and ½ the pain as determined by the amount of prescription pain medicine required. Smooth Tuck® has been featured on CBS, ABC, NBC, FOX, The Doctors, and Life & Style Weekly.

Currently it is only available with me at my New York City office and has attracted patients from around the globe.

Keller Funnel™

Keller Funnel™ is an innovative device used to help with the insertion of silicone gel breast implants. This device resembles a pastry bag. Using this device has revolutionized my breast augmentation practice. I am now able to insert even large gel implants through the tiniest incisions.

In fact, my average incision length for breast implants is 1.18 inches! Other advantages include: less pain, less risk of infection, less risk of implant rupture, and less chance of capsular contracture or “hardening of the implant”. As one of only a few plastic surgeons in the New York area using this technology, I have become among the most sought after cosmetic breast surgeons in New York City.

I have integrated this funnel into my surgical breast lift technique and now offer an “ultra-short-scar, rapid-recovery breast augmentation.”

Permalip™

PermaLip™ is the latest in permanent lip augmentation. This soft, solid silicone rubber implant can be inserted into the upper or lower lip, giving a permanently fuller lip that looks, and feels, natural. This has allowed me to offer my patients a fuller pout, without the pain, cost, and inconsistency of temporary injectable fillers like Restylane or Juvaderm. I was among the first plastic surgeons in New York to try PermaLip™.

Now, several years later, I have among the largest experience with this implant in the country. The procedure is done in my office using only local anesthesia. The added benefit is an incredible cost savings. Temporary fillers can cost upwards of $700 and the results last about 6 months. This means that plumping your lips and maintaining this look for 5 years with temporary fillers will cost over $7500! At a cost of $2500 for one implant, and $4000 for two implants, this is a huge savings.

In fact, Life & Style Weekly called it “a steal”.

Now there seems to be another option. I have been using PermaLip, a permanent silicone implant for the lips. These implants are solid silicone rubber that is soft and flexible. They are manufactured with tapered ends, making them very natural appearing when placed in the lips.

The soft nature of the implant allows them to move naturally with lip motion. Additionally, they do not elicit an inflammatory response, making it easy to remove if necessary. This makes the PermaLip a safe option for permanent lip augmentation.

Unlike with injectable fillers, the results are consistent overlying skin, and not soley dependent on the skill of your injector.

Permalip™ Cost

The implants are placed in a short in-office procedure requiring only local anesthesia. These is some swelling and bruising after the procedure that may last for one week. However, with a cost of approximately $3000 for both upper and lower lip, this is a cost effective option for women who desire permanently fuller lips.

So, by adding these 3 procedures to my cosmetic plastic surgery practice, I am able to offer my patients the latest (and “greatest”) ways to rejuvenate their face and body.

Questions and Answers

What are the 5 most common plastic surgeries?

The most popular cosmetic procedures include breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, eyelid surgery extra skin on, tummy tuck, and facelift.

What are the methods of cosmetic surgery?

Cosmetic plastic surgery encompasses both surgical and non-surgical techniques aimed at enhancing and reshaping the body’s structures to boost one’s appearance and self-assurance.

What kind of technology is used in plastic surgery?

Laser technology frequently minimizes bleeding, bruising, and scarring in reconstructive plastic surgery procedures. Various laser types are available, selected based on the surgery’s purpose and location.

Contact Our Office to Book Your Cosmetic Procedures

To schedule your cosmetic surgery consultation in my Park Avenue Office, contact us today by call 212-289-1851.

If you are from out-of-town, ask about our assistance in arranging overnight lodging or arranging an internet or virtual consultation.

References

September 26, 2023/in Plastic Surgery /by Dr. Matthew Schulman

How to find a good plastic surgeon is important. You place an enormous amount of trust in your plastic surgeon and he/she ultimately is responsible for your plastic surgery results and your safety. No matter how you first found your surgeon, there are some key questions to ask before you commit to cosmetic plastic surgery.

As a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in NYC specializing in Cosmetic Surgery, here are 5 questions that I think are the most important:

Are you a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon?

Dr. Matthew Schulman Plastic surgeon New York City

Board Certified Plastic Surgeons means that your plastic surgeons has completed the appropriate training and has also passed both written and oral examinations. It also means that your plastic surgeons meets the appropriate ethical and moral standards.

Make sure he/she is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon. Don’t be fooled into thinking that a cosmetic surgeon is the same. If a doctor tells you he/she is a Board Certified Cosmetic Surgeon, turn and run.

This means that they were trained in some other field (maybe even cardiology or radiology) and has taken a course on cosmetic procedures as short as a weekend, and now is allowed to call them self a cosmetic surgeon. I call BS on doctors doing that. Don’t be fooled. You deserve better.

Where do you operate and do you have admitting and operating privileges at a nearby hospital?

Some plastic surgeons operate at a hospital, an ambulatory surgery center, or out of an office based operating room. If your plastic surgeon operated out of an office based operating room or practice, make sure it is a fully certified facility and meets all the standards set forth by the state.

Also make sure that your anesthesiologist is a board certified anesthesiologist who is dedicated solely to you during your case and not working multiple operating rooms at a time.

Even in the safest operating environment, rare complications can occur. In this situation, it is important that your surgeon can get you to a nearby hospital that he/she has admitting privileges at. This means that the can continue to take care of you should you require hospitalization. More importantly, your surgeon should also have operating privileges in the rare event you need to have a surgery performed at the hospital.

If your surgeon is not affiliated with a nearby hospital, then in the rare chance that you need urgent hospitalization, you will likely end up at the nearest hospital and your surgeon is not allowed to be actively involved in the care of you.

How many ____________(the surgery you are interest in) do you perform in a month/year?

There is no magic number as to how many cases a surgeon must perform before they are considered “good” at it. Some people have tossed around the number 100, but I don’t think this is necessarily fair. The point is that you certainly don’t want to be the first (or 20th?) of a particular case. Also, just because your surgeon has done 100 of a particular case, doesn’t tell you whether or not the results were any good.

Unfortunately there are plenty of really busy, yet really bad, plastic surgeons. Every plastic surgeon specializes in something. No plastic surgeon does everything. Some may be known as a “face guy” and others may be known as a “body guy”. It doesn’t make sense to have your breast implants put in by a body guy.

Can I speak with some patients?

This question is key. You can learn a lot from speaking with cosmetic surgeons and some patients who have had the same, or similar, procedure. The surgeon should be able to give you 3 names of patients who are willing to speak to you. Keep in mind though, that these are clearly going to be “happy” patients.

It would be bad form for a surgeon to give you the phone number of a patient who has poor results and will be likely to tell you about their bad experience. But there is some value in speaking with them because they can tell you about the process, the recovery, and give you valuable tips that will be helpful no matter who you select as your surgeon.

What is your revision policy?

Plastic Surgery is an art. As a plastic surgeon I do everything I can possible do to get the best result for my patients. Unfortunately this is not always possible because there are many factors that we cannot control for.

Occasionally, revision or reconstructive surgery may be needed. You should find out what the surgeon’s revision policy is. Does he/she charge? If so, what are the fees? Each office should have a policy regarding this. Hopefully it is never an issue for you, but in case it is, you should have the information in advance.

Book Your Plastic Surgery Consultation

Contact Us for more information on on how to choose your plastic surgeon in the New York City area. Matthew Schulman, M.D. is Board Certified in plastic surgery and specializes in cosmetic surgery of the face, breast and body.

References

https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/how-to-find-a-plastic-surgeon

September 4, 2023/in Breast Augmentation /by Dr. Matthew Schulman

Breast augmentation stands out as one of the most sought-after cosmetic surgical treatments, and it garners attention not only among plastic surgeons. I am dedicated to continuous enhancement of my breast augmentation technique. Over time, I’ve refined my approach to develop a “Rapid-Recovery Breast Augmentation” method that significantly reduces recovery time, bruising, swelling, and discomfort when compared to traditional breast augmentation methods.

What is Rapid Recovery Breast Augmentation?

Rapid Recovery breast augmentation involves four specific components:

Long-acting local anesthetics injected into pain nerves of the breast
Injection of Botox into the pectoralis muscle
Insertion of the breast implant using a Keller Funnel
Post-operative application of LED lights to reduce bruising and swelling

Dr. Matthew Schulman board certified plastic surgeon, performs breast augmentation under general anesthesia – you are completely asleep. However, I also inject long-acting local anesthetics into the nerves of the breast.

The medicine is specifically injected into the sensory nerves of the breast. The result is less pain during the first 8 hours after the surgery which is usually when most breast augmentation patients are most uncomfortable. This prevents the buildup of severe pain that can make a breast augmentation recovery difficult.

Breast Implant Placement

Rapid recovery breast augmentation

The majority of breast implants are placed under the pectoralis muscle. When implants are placed under the muscle, it requires that the surgeon cut the pectoralis muscles in order to place the implant under chest muscle. During the months after the surgery, this cut pectoralis muscle can have painful spasms. This can result in pain that can persist for weeks and months after surgery. Also, the implant can stretch the muscle, causing pain.

More importantly, the implants commonly remain “high” for several months after surgery because they are being held by the pectoralis muscle and need to “drop” into a natural position. This often takes up to 6 months after plastic surgery. The solution for all these things is Botox! I inject Botox into the pectoralis muscle at the time of surgery. This causes paralysis of the muscle for 4 months, decreasing painful spasms as the back muscle tissue heals and allows the breast implant to drop into the desired position in just a few weeks instead of 6 months.

Next, I use a special device for insertion of the breast implant. This device, called a Keller Funnel, allows non-traumatic insertion of the implant through a very small incision. Less trauma and a smaller incision equals less recovery time less pain.

The Final Component

The final component of the “Rapid-Recovery” Breast Augmentation in New York City is the use of LED lights. LED, or Light Emitting Diodes, are colored lights. Studies have shown the red and blue rays of light can decrease inflammation and bruising. My patients are given these hand-held lights to take home and apply it to the breasts several times a day. The use of these lights reduces the bruising, swelling, and pain.

Using this technique, I find that my patients have less pain, less bruising, less swelling, and a faster final result.

Incision Options for Breast Implants

There are three basic options for the incisions used to place breast implants – peri-areolar (around the areola) used in breast lift, inframammary (in the breast crease), and trans-axillary (through the underarm). The incision represents how the implant is placed. Each incision has pros and cons. Below is a basic review of the advantages and disadvantages of each approach.

Peri-Areolar

Advantages: well-hidden incision Disadvantagous: not possible if areolas are very small, possible disruption of milk ducts which can lead to infection and interference with breast feeding, more technically challenging for the surgeon, higher capsular contracture rate than some other approaches, risk for decreased nipple sensation.

Inframammary

Advantages: well hidden incision, technically easier approach for surgeon, no disruption of milk ducts or breast tissue so virtually no risk for interference with breast feeding, quick recovery, lowest risk of infection and capsular contracture Disadvantages: scar can be visible on underside of breast.

Trans-Axillary

Advantages: hidden breast implant scar, no disruption of ilk ducts or breast gland so virtually no risk for interference with breast feeding. Disadvantages: challenging approach for the plastic surgeon and usually requires a surgical technique and use of endoscopic camera equipment, highest risk for infection and capsular contracture, scar may be irritated when shaving underarms, high rate of implant malposition.

As you can see, there are several different approaches for placement of breast implants. Your surgeon will be able to discuss which approach is best for you. It will depend on your preference of breast enhancement surgery, type of implant selected, breast implant size selected, and your body shape and size.

Questions and Answers About Rapid Recovery Technique

Rapid recovery breast augmentation vs conventional

What is rapid recovery after breast augmentation?

Rapid recovery represents a cutting-edge approach that provides patients with a swift and effortless recuperation following traditional breast augmentation surgery. Within just 24 to 48 hours, you can comfortably resume your daily routines, including normal activities like showering and even enjoying an evening out for dinner on the same day!

What is the difference between rapid recovery breast augmentation vs conventional recovery process?

Besides reduced pain, quicker recovery times, and the use of milder pain medications, rapid recovery breast augmentation boasts additional advantages over conventional breast augmentation procedure. Notably, it carries fewer risks compared to the traditional approach.

Can I get rapid recovery breast augmentation near me?

Yes. Dr. Schulman is a board certified plastic surgeon in NYC offering rapid recovery breast augmentation.

What are the worst days of breast augmentation recovery?

In the initial 3 to 5 days, you may encounter the highest level of discomfort. Dr. Schulman will have provided prescribed pain medication to manage this discomfort.

It’s possible to observe slight bleeding at the incision sites, which is a typical occurrence. However, if you have any concerns regarding bleeding, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your surgeon.

Breast Augmentation Surgery Consultation

Contact Dr. Schulman’s practice of plastic surgery in New York City to schedule a free cosmetic surgery consultation and learn more about Dr. Schulman’s Rapid Recovery Breast Augmentation surgery.

July 31, 2023/in Breast Implants /by Dr. Matthew Schulman

There is a new weapon in the war against small breasts – breast implants that have adjustable volume. Adjustable breast implants have a port through which saline can be added or removed. This allows the volume to be adjusted for various reasons. Before you get too excited, these are not intended to allow women to increase their breast size for a night on the town, or decrease the size for that important business meeting.

The adjustment process involves a plastic surgeon placing a sterile needle through the skin into the fill port that is under the skin and meticulously adding or removing sterile saline solution. So it is a far cry from the Reebok Pump sneaker technology of the Eighties.

So why the need for this adjustable breast implants?

There are 3 situations in which I would use these adjustable implants in my breast practice:

1. To account for pre-operative differences in the shape and volume of the breasts. Breast asymmetry is very common and can make it difficult to choose the appropriately sized breast implants. A post-operative adjustable implant allows the surgeon to make small adjustments in the breast volume for months after the surgery, allowing better matching between asymmetric breasts.

2. To correct breast deformities such as Tuberous Breasts. Tuberous Breast Deformity is a fairly common condition characterized by an underdeveloped breast that is constricted at its base. Correction of this deformity involves placing a breast implant to increase the size (this is often only on one breast) and to correct the constricted base of the breast. Unfortunately, this cannot be done simply by placing a breast implant. You actually need to stretch the base of the breast.

A post operative adjustable breast implant allows the gradual expansion of the base of the breast to improve the shape and size.

3. To help women choose a breast size that they are happy with. The most common reason for breast implant reoperation is for a change in size. Some reports find that 25% of women ultimately undergo reoperation simply to increase/decrease the size of the implant.

A post operative adjustable implant allows the surgeon to place the implant to the desired volume and then over the next several months, small adjustments can be made until the woman is certain of the size.

Adjustable Breast Implants Have Some Drawbacks.

While this may make these implants sound like the best thing since sliced bread, there are some drawbacks.

• The implants are only saline, which have a tendency to be more visible, more palpable, show rippling and be more “unnatural” than their silicone cousins. They are also a little more expensive but you should never bargain shop your surgery.

• Adjusting the volume of the implant involves a visit to the doctor and a needle in the skin, which can cause pain and does carry some risk of infection.

• The fill port is palpable under the skin and may feel like a marble.

• Removal of the fill port involves a small office procedure.

• The range of each implant is limited (usually about 75cc in each direction) so you still need a basic idea of what size range you would like.

In my practice, 80% of the breast implants that I place today are silicone breast implants vs saline implants because I feel silicone are the most natural appearing (and feeling) implants. I do occasionally use adjustable implants though for the situations that I outlined above.

In the right circumstance, these implants are a powerful weapon in the field of breast surgery, especially in cases of marked breast asymmetry or congenital deformities.

Do Breast Implants Cause ALCL

Most recently in the news you may have heard about concerns involving an association with breast implants and a form of rare blood cancer. The safety of my patient’s is always my first priority and with the recent news headlines I want to provide you with accurate information.

Facts:

Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (ALCL) is an extremely rare form of blood cancer – 1 out of every 500,000 women in the US are diagnosed and according to the National Cancer Institute, ALCL in the breast tissue is found in 3 out of every 100 million women nationwide without implants.

Nearly, 10 million women have breast implants and 34 unique cases world wide of ALCL in women with implants have been placed.

Breast implants for breast enhancement surgery are still FDA approved and the FDA along with plastic surgery governing societies feel breast implants remain safe and effective for women who are in good physical and mental health. Women with breast implants don’t need to change their medical care and should continue to follow normal routine – self exam and mammography when appropriate.

If changes to your breasts are detected or breast pain contact your board certified plastic surgeon.

The FDA, the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, along with health care professionals and manufactures will continue to monitor silicone implants and saline implants to ensure the patient remains educated and safe.

For more information regarding FDA reports please visit: http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm241090.htm

Questions and Answers

What is an adjustable breast implant?

Adjustable breast implants provide patients with an exclusive opportunity to fine-tune their breast size after surgery, ensuring precise adjustments that harmonize with their body proportions and desired results.

These specialized implants feature a small injection port or valve connected to the implant through a small tube, granting patients the ability to increase or decrease the implant’s volume as required. This unique feature allows for a personalized approach, empowering patients to attain their specific aesthetic objectives with greater control and customization.

Can you get adjustable breast implants?

If, even after completing the sizing process for your breast implant surgery, you still feel apprehensive about your choice, consider the option of adjustable breast implants. These implants have been available for over two decades and can be increased or decreased in size by up to 20 percent through a straightforward procedure after the initial surgery. This added flexibility provides reassurance and allows you to fine-tune your breast size according to your preferences and comfort level.

How do adjustable breast implants work?

A tissue expander is an implant designed to gradually expand the skin by utilizing saline to stretch it. These expanders can be either temporary or permanent. For more detailed information about tissue expander implants, please refer to the section below.

How long can you leave breast expanders in?

A tissue expander is an implant designed to gradually expand the skin by utilizing saline to stretch it. These expanders can be either temporary or up to six months. For more detailed information about tissue expander implants, please refer to the section below.

Contact Us Today to Discuss Adjustable breast implants

Please feel free to Contact my office if you have any questions about adjustable breast implants for breast augmentation or if you would like to schedule a consultation.

April 21, 2023/in Plastic Surgery /by Dr. Matthew Schulman

Social media is filled with pictures of celebrities and their “bad plastic surgery.” If it’s not that someone’s had “too much plastic surgery”, it’s that they got a bad nose job or lip injections too big for their face. It seems to be a common pastime of the nation to gawk at them and analyze the ways in which big names have made bad choices when it comes to their looks and plastic surgery.

I am even guilty of offering my comments in several magazines about the specifics of so-called bad plastic surgery jobs. I’ve been quoted calling Madonna’s cheeks “bizarre”, Christina Aguilera’s breasts after breast augmentation “too big for her body”, and Mickey Rourke’s face “overdone.” To be sure, celebrities such as Michael Jackson, Joan Rivers, Carrot Top, Tara Reid, and Heidi Montag have also had some questionable experiences with plastic surgeries.

But are these outcomes really the norm? Furthermore, where is all the “good plastic surgery”? Why does plastic surgery look so bad all the time (or seem to)? Could it be that we don’t notice when cosmetic surgery is good because, well, that’s frequently the point?

Society’s View on Plastic Surgeries

As a society, we tend to focus on the bad outcomes of pretty much any situation. Why? Because it’s usually what sells. This certainly goes for cosmetic surgery and especially for bad celebrity plastic surgery.

The “bad nose job” or the “botched breast augmentation” are always top news.

Moreover, “regular” people seem to derive some level of unhealthy pleasure from criticizing famous celebrities who always seem to get whatever they want. As “victims of plastic surgeries gone bad”, it cuts them down to size. A once famous actress nobody cares about anymore because she had multiple plastic surgeries that didn’t turn out well? That can be appealing to some people.

But, the real truth is that there is excellent plastic surgery being performed every day on celebrities and non-celebrities alike. Modern techniques for surgery allow for smaller incisions that are better hidden, more rapid recoveries, and more “natural” results. Gone are the days of dramatic surgical changes and barely recognizable post-surgical faces.

Case in Point: Facelifts

Facelifting techniques, in particular, have seen the greatest advancements.

The facelifts of the 1980s, with the windswept look, overly tight skin, and upturned mouth (à la “The Joker”) are no more. Plastic surgeons now “lift” and “reposition” the deep structures of the face (the fat pads and muscles), and very little is done to the skin.

In fact, after the underlying structures are repositioned into a youthful position, the skin is simply “redraped” and not pulled tight. You would be surprised at how little skin is actually removed during a facelift when it is done correctly.

I will share a little trick that I do with every one of my pre-operative facelift patients in consultation. To show what you will look like with a very well done (and natural) facelift, lay on your back and look at yourself in a handheld mirror. Impressive, right? This allows gravity to show you where everything should be.

“One of the last great Hollywood taboos is admitting to having work done. Whether it’s just a little jab of Botox or a more severe cosmetic procedure like breast implants or a face lift, stars have long since been going under the needle and the knife in complete denial. But times are changing, and a handful of brave celebrities are opening up about their experiences — both good and bad — with plastic surgery and cosmetic injectables.” Harper’s Bazaar

Non-Surgical Treatments Have Evolved

Additionally, non-surgical treatments have evolved as well. Chemical peels should no longer result in that obvious shiny, over-smooth, waxy skin.

Likewise, injectable fillers can be done conservatively so that they restore volume and fill lines, without making someone look like they have been over-inflated. Dysport and botox treatments can soften lines and do not have to completely prevent movement. That “frozen look” that people fear is a result of a bad injector, not the injection! Believe it or not, it is possible to eliminate lines on your forehead AND be able to lift your eyebrows!

My point is that there are excellent plastic surgeons who perform surgeries and injections that rejuvenate and improve physical appearance, without making you look ridiculous and “overdone”. My patients obviously want to look different (i.e. better), but they don’t want people to know exactly what they had done. They want someone to ask if they got their hair colored or lost weight, when the truth is they had their eyes or face done.

Finding the right surgeon is key. As long as bad plastic surgeons (or non-plastic surgeons trying to act like plastic surgeons) are out there practicing, social media and gossip magazines will continue to have lots of content for the “bad plastic surgery” section. Definitely don’t choose the wrong guy (or girl) for this job.

The truth is, nobody wants to read about the good results.

Traveling From Out of Town

Everybody understands the importance of selecting a qualified surgeon for their cosmetic procedures. However, sometimes, the best person for you is many miles away.

About 20 percent of my patients live more than three hours from New York City. In fact, my patients have come from as far away as Texas, Alaska, France, England, Dubai, Thailand, Ireland, and Bermuda.

Patients seek all sorts of body procedures, including tummy tuck surgery, buttock augmentation (BBL), liposuction, and more. Desired facial procedures include lip injections, brow lift or eyelid surgery, cheek implants or buccal fat removal, chin liposuction or chin implants, and many other cosmetic procedures. Botox injections, laser treatments, and other noninvasive procedures can also be formed. Finally, we offer several different types of breast surgery procedures, from breast enlargement with breast implants or fat transfer to breast lifts or even getting breast implants removed.

Our office is very experienced with out-of-town patients. They can set up online and virtual consultations for those who are too far away to come in for an in-person consultation.

How Long Will You Need to Stay in Town for Your Procedure?

The required time to stay in NYC will vary depending on the specific procedure that you will be having. The stay for a nose job revision or laser treatments is going to be different than a stay for a chin reduction or butt implants, for instance. Still, most patients stay in the area for around 5-10 days. If you just want a few enhancements with minimal surgical intervention, you’ll probably only need to stay a few nights.

We can also provide information about discounted hotel accommodations. We even have nearby apartments that are available for your stay in NYC as you recover from your surgery.

Contact Our Office to Learn More

If you are interested in seeing before and after photos of plastic surgery procedures performed by me, visit our photo gallery, or contact our office to schedule a consultation. We also offer fly in to New York City packages on our website.

References

https://www.businessinsider.com/17-celebrity-before-and-after-plastic-surgery-disasters-2012-8

https://www.harpersbazaar.com/beauty/health/g14478114/celebrities-with-plastic-surgery/

March 2, 2023/in Umbilicoplasty /by Dr. Matthew Schulman

Pictures recently surfaced that rocked the world of females aged 25-45. John Stamos, known most famously for his role as Uncle Jessie on Full House and considered among the “hottest” men around (or so my wife says) is not so perfect after all.

People are saying that John Stamos belly button is deformed. What John Stamos has is more than simply an “outie” and he claims it is the result of a childhood to repair an umbilical hernia.

What Is an Umbilical Hernia

An umbilical hernia is an opening in the abdominal wall and results in the protrusion of fat or intestine. This appears like an “outie” that can be pushed in. These hernias are extremely common in infants and usually close on their own by age 2 or 3 years old. Hernias that fail to close may require a surgical procedure to close the opening, preventing potential complications in the future.

The most serious complication can be a piece of the intestine getting stuck in the opening causing bowel obstruction, partial death of the intestine, and septic shock.

So, if his hernia was repaired, why does his belly button look like that? This is probably because the surgeon closed the opening with sutures, which is the appropriate thing. But what the surgeon probably failed to do is remove any fat that was trapped outside the opening, or trim the excess skin of the belly button.

This may be the reason why he has a bulging belly button with overhanging skin. Essentially, the hernia was repaired, but little consideration was given to the cosmetic portion of the procedure. As a plastic surgeon, I have trained in BOTH general surgery AND plastic surgery. This means that I am able to repair the hernia AND make the belly button look better!

Cosmetic Belly Button Procedure

But don’t worry if you have had your hernia fixed and you belly button still doesn’t look good. You can still have a cosmetic belly button procedure that improves the appearance. Cosmetic surgery of the belly button, or umbilicoplasty, has become one of the most common in-office procedures that I perform.

In fact, I have been nicknamed “Dr. Belly Button” by many of my patients who come great distances for the procedure. It takes anywhere from 30-60 minutes and is done using only local anesthesia. The recovery time is rapid.

So John, if you are reading this (if you are not, then you are really missing out on a great blog), give me a call so I can correct your only flaw.

Are there any risks?

Make sure to contact your doctor right away if you notice any of the following symptoms in the weeks after your surgery:

severe bleeding
nausea
dizziness
pain that doesn’t go away
signs of infection, such as a fever, unusual smell, or colored discharge

The Bottom Line

Umbilicoplasty is a procedure that can help your change the shape of your bellybutton. If you’re considering it, scarring is always an issue but if you choose a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon they will be able to get the result you want.

Depending on your situation, the procedure might not be worth the risk. Also, if you are a women and getting pregnant is in your future plans, it’s best to hold off on the surgery to avoid undoing the results.

Who Is John Stamos

“John Stamos is an American actor, producer, musician, comedian and singer. He first gained recognition for his contract role as Blackie Parrish on the ABC television series General Hospital, for which he was nominated for the Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series.

He is known for his work in television and videos, especially in his starring role as Jesse Katsopolis on the ABC sitcom Full House. Since the show’s finale in 1995, Stamos has appeared in numerous TV films, ads, videos and series. Since 2005, he has been the national spokesperson for Project Cuddle.

Stamos is a big fan of Elvis Presley and has often referenced or paid homage to him in the show Full House. Stamos began dating model/actress Rebecca Romijn in 1994 after they met at a Victoria’s Secret fashion show in which she was modeling. Stamos and Romijn became engaged on Christmas Eve 1997, and they married on September 19, 1998, at the Beverly Hills Hotel.

They announced their separation in April 2004. John Stamos filed for divorce in August 2004, and it became final on March 1, 2005.

On October 23, 2017, Stamos announced his engagement to model and actress Caitlin McHugh after a year of dating. In December 2017, the couple announced they were expecting their first child, due in the spring of 2018. Stamos and McHugh married in February 2018.

Contact Our Office

If you would like to learn more options about cosmetic surgery of the belly button, call 212-289-1851 or contact me to request additional information or view our umbilicoplasty before and after gallery

Reference

- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Stamos
- https://www.healthline.com/health/umbilicoplasty

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