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Advantages of Getting Plastic Surgery in the Spring

Deciding to get plastic surgery is a brave and empowering life choice. Accordingly, the decision is not to be taken lightly, and there is a lot to consider when choosing the timing of your procedure.

Recovery time, leave from work, family obligations, and social duties are some of the factors that significantly influence the timing of most patients’ plastic surgery. While every person’s circumstances are different, general trends in the weather and societal calendars do dictate patterns in our daily life.

For this reason, many people find the spring an ideal time to undergo plastic surgery.

Here, the expert team of noted plastic surgeons of Plastic Surgery Services of Fredericksburg outline the various advantages of getting plastic surgery done in the spring.

Natural Harmony 

For everything on earth, people included, spring is a time of new growth, and of rebirth.

The cold days of winter slowly begin to lengthen and warm up, and we are shown the promise of the beautiful summer days to follow. What summer brings are long walks in the park, mountain hikes, swims in the lakes, and trips to exotic beaches.

For both men and women alike, getting summer ready starts with losing some of the excess baggage gained during the winter holiday season. Particularly useful for this are spring surgeries such as liposuction and cool sculpting.

These procedures can give you a kick-start to the sunny season and provide some much-needed encouragement to help obtain, reveal, and maintain the beautiful potential of your physique.

Easier Social Calendar  

Wintertime is an excellent plastic-surgery season, where post-surgery recovery can quickly be done snugged up in loose clothing, indoors, away from the winter weather.

What many patients do find, however, is that the numerous social obligations during the winter season can be troublesome for recovery and even scheduling an appointment.

As you recover from plastic surgery, holding discussions at dinner or concerning yourself with how you look at the party are the last things you want to be worried about – you just want some well-deserved R&R.

What’s more, mothers and fathers may appreciate the alone-time that spring gives as their children go back to school, leaving the house blissfully peaceful for those 6-8 hours a day.

Summer is Just Around the Corner 

Spring is not too late to get plastic surgery and be bikini-ready for summer.

Getting procedures such as breast augmentation, face surgery, or spa services such as dermal fillers and BOTOX® in the spring means the results of your procedure will be ready and flourishing for the summer-fun season.

Spring gives us the perfect combination of downtime and anticipation for enjoying your freshly rejuvenated physique. It is critical to get enough rest during recovery, and in many cases, to avoid direct sunlight until you have fully healed from the surgery. Spring gives us an ideal opportunity to do just this.

Spring Plastic Surgery in Fredericksburg   

If you are considering plastic surgery, please consider reaching out to our team of top plastic surgeons at Plastic Surgery Services of Fredericksburg. We are currently offering virtual online consultations to help you enjoy the comfort of your own home. Please call 540 371 7730 or schedule your online consultation to get answers to any questions you may have!

Let’s get ready for summer fun!

How to Determine the Right Breast Implant Size for Your Figure

With more than 300,000 women reshaping their bust every year, breast augmentation is the most popular cosmetic procedure in the U.S.

However, breast implant revision surgeries are also on the rise. Over half of these breast augmentation revision surgeries are performed because women initially choose the wrong size implant, and consequently need to get the implant size changed.  

For this reason, it is crucial to choose the right breast implant size when you first get your breast augmentation. By getting your size right the first time, you will avoid unnecessary revision surgery and complications later on.

There are numerous factors you need to consider when deciding the right breast implant size for you. Here, our surgeons at The Plastic Surgery Services of Fredericksburg outline which factors to take into consideration, and how you can estimate the correct size implant for yourself

Measuring Breast Implant Size

Brassiere cup sizes are unreliable measurements of actual breast size. As such, breast implants are not measured in cup size – they are measured in cubic centimeters (CC’s).

This is because brassier cup volume differs between countries and bra manufacturers – a B cup from one manufacturer may be a different size than a B cup from a separate manufacturer. For this reason, plastic surgeons use the precise and universal measurement of volume to standardize measuring the size of breast implants in cubic centimeters.   

Breast implant sizes vary greatly, anywhere from 120 ccs to 850 ccs. The size of the implants you should choose depends on a variety of factors.

Bigger Is Not Necessarily Better

Breast implant surgery is a highly personalized process. In the end, the decision is up to you about the size of your implants, but you should carefully consider these factors:

  • your desired aesthetic result
  • natural amount of breast tissue
  • height, weight, chest, breast and shoulder dimensions
  • skin elasticity
  • lifestyle

For pleasing aesthetic results, many women are beginning to choose more moderately sized implants that give a full, perky profile without being overly large.   

Choosing breast implants that are too large often leads to complications such as the implants becoming displaced or your skin sagging, and in some cases, breast implant revision surgery.

Breast implants that are too large for your frame can also increase the chance that you will experience back and neck pain. They may also lead to postural issues, so the size of implant you choose must be proportional to your frame and musculature.

Visualizing Breast Implant Sizes

Two easy, at-home tests that are very effective in helping you visualize the actual sizes of different breast implants are the rice test, and the water test.

Both tests work because 1ml of rice or water equals 1 CC.

To perform the rice test: 

1. Measure out 200 ml of rice

2. Cut out a section of some old pantyhose

3. Tie a knot in one end and fill the pantyhose with the rice 

4. Tie off the top end.

This shows you the size of a 200 CC breast implant.

You can manipulate the shape and profile of your jerry-rigged implant, and varying the amount of rice will help you see the difference in breast implant sizes.

The water test is very similar; only you use a balloon with different volumes of water to help visualize the different implant sizes.

Try wearing larger brassieres with different items of clothing and placing your home-made implants into the bra cup to get an idea of how you look and feel with various implant sizes.

Remember that you also need to consider the profile and shape of your implants. This is best done with an on-site consultation so you can see and ‘try’ the different implant shapes and sizes which are available to you.

Deciding on the size of your breast implants takes a lot of consideration. If you’re thinking about breast augmentation surgery in Fredericksburg and whether or not it’s right for you, Plastic Surgery Services of Fredericksburg can help.

In a one-on-one consultation, our board-certified plastic surgeons will consider your specific circumstances, your physique, lifestyle, and desired results and recommend the best implant sizes for you. 

To book your appointment, please don’t hesitate to call 540 371 7730 or fill out our online form. We look forward to hearing from you.

9 Things You Need at Home to Make Plastic Surgery Recovery Comfortable

Did you know that plastic surgery recovery can be a pleasant experience? Many of our patients expect extensive downtime and significant discomfort and are delighted when they realize how easy recovery can be. 

By organizing your affairs and house before heading into surgery, you can prepare yourself for a straight-forward, relaxing, and enjoyable period of downtime. 

The type of surgery you receive will impact the length of time you spend resting and recovering, but if you’re prepared you can enjoy those few days or a couple of weeks. 

What do you need for a great recovery after plastic surgery? We recommend the following nine items.

1) A Helping Hand

Plain and simple, you’re going to need help as you recover from plastic surgery. 

While you don’t need someone waiting on you hand and foot, you may need assistance with little daily tasks like driving home from surgery, walking the dog, or running out to the store. 

Patients with small children will definitely need help with childcare as patients are unable to lift for several weeks after most surgical procedures.

2) Entertainment

Get ready to binge! If you’ve been wanting to watch some serious Netflix, after surgery you’ll probably have time. Prefer to read? Pick up that book you’ve been wanting to dive into for months.  

Downtime after surgery will mean plenty of sitting on the couch or lying in bed – the perfect opportunity to spoil yourself and indulge in some TV and literature.

3) Comfortable Clothes

As you recover from surgery, your comfort is paramount. Comfy clothing is a must. 

You should avoid stretching as much as possible, as it can pull apart incisions and sutures and slow the healing process. Loose clothing allows you to slip into and out of your attire without too much movement. We recommend button-up tops after breast surgeries.

4) Sanitizing Products

After surgery, your body will have incisions that need to heal. By keeping on top of sanitizing your hands and incisions, you can minimize any potential risk of infection. 

Using antibacterial soaps and hand gels will keep your hands and environment germ-free.

5) First Aid Kit

Our team of elite surgeons at Plastic Surgery Services of Fredericksburg will teach you how to care for your incisions as you heal.

You may find it helpful to have gauze, antibiotic ointment, and bandaging available.

6) Filled Prescriptions

No one wants to go to the pharmacy after surgery. 

If you can, go to the pharmacy and get any prescriptions you’ll need before your surgery. By doing so, you can return directly home after your procedure and not worry about having to make any unnecessary stops along the way.

7) Supplements and Vitamins

Anytime when our bodies are a little bit down is a great time to give them a helping hand. Particularly as you recover from plastic surgery, you might want to be extra kind to your immune system and organs with over-the-counter multivitamins and other supplements. 

This can give your body that extra little edge it needs to heal that extra bit faster. Always talk with your surgeon about any medications or supplements you’re using.

8) Ready-Made Meals

You don’t want to be worrying too much about planning, shopping, and preparing your meals during your recovery. You want to eat. 

Some easily stored meals like pasta bakes, rice pilafs, and stir-fries are great ideas to make before your surgery. Having these ready in the refrigerator or freezer for when your hungry will make your recovery that much easier and your tummy that much happier. 

9) Water

So many people overlook the role of hydration in recovering from surgery. You need to stay hydrated so you can flush medications and anesthesia out of your system effectively.  

Water also improves your mood; it boosts your energy and helps with your digestion. Having drinking water ready and available – and ensuring to consume plenty of it – will make a big difference during your recovery.

By organizing this help, food, and supplies, you can make your recovery from plastic surgery a time where you can get back to yourself and enjoy some proper rest and relaxation. 

If you have any other questions about plastic surgery recovery, or would like to book a consultation with the team at Plastic Surgery Services of Fredericksburg, call 540-371-7730 or fill in our online form.

Plastic Surgery Services of Fredericksburg Welcomes Dr. Aflaki!

The Plastic Surgery Services of Fredericksburg is proud to introduce the newest member of our team: Dr. Aflaki! We’re excited to have such a renowned, talented surgeon as Dr. Aflaki on our team, and we’re happy to have another surgeon that exemplifies PSSF’s values of high-quality patient care, compassion, and natural results. To learn more about our incredible new surgeon, take some time to read all about Dr. Aflaki and why we’re thrilled to have him.

About Dr. Pejman Aflaki

Dr. Pejman Aflaki specializes in a wide range of fields; not only does he have extensive experience with reconstructive and cosmetic surgery of the face and breast, but he also has special training with breast reconstruction after breast cancer. Dr. Aflaki is particularly skilled in microsurgical techniques like the ones used in breast reconstruction. When it comes to treating cancer patients, Dr. Aflaki believes in taking a multidisciplinary approach that allows him to work closely with other physicians and healthcare professionals to find the best treatment.

As a facial plastic surgery expert, Dr. Aflaki performs his facelift, neck lift, and other facial procedure in a way that emphasizes natural, balanced results. He also specializes in cosmetic procedures that offer powerful rejuvenation for patients like the mommy makeover, the breast lift, breast augmentation, and more.

Dr. Aflaki’s Philosophy

Dr. Aflaki’s work is guided by a philosophy that emphasizes creating multidimensional planning, understanding the patients’ concerns, and personalizing each treatment for the patient. He truly cares about each and every one of his patients, and he believes in treating each patient like his family or close friend. Dr. Aflaki is known for his incredible attention to detail, and he uses that meticulous planning to make sure the patient and their concerns are heard and addressed.

Dr. Aflaki is passionate about education, and he takes the time to teach and learn about new techniques by participating in academic journal clubs and national plastic surgery conferences. On his days off, Dr. Aflaki prioritizes staying fit and is an avid marathon runner. He’s also a devoted family man, and he loves to spend his days with his wife and two children.

Dr. Aflaki believes in PSSF’s core values: compassion for patients, personalizing each treatment, procedures done with the utmost safety, and balanced, natural results. Want a chance to work with amazing surgeons like Dr. Aflaki, Dr. Bautista, or Dr. Heppe? Contact the Plastic Surgery Services of Fredericksburg now, for a consultation.

Breast Implant Incisions: Can I Choose the Type of Incision I Want?

Breast augmentation involves several decisions that are critical to your surgery success. One of the decisions you have to make is to choose the type of implant incision. As with other variables involved in your breast augmentation journey, the choice of incision type is a personal matter.

While your doctor can recommend an incision type that’s most suitable for you, the final decision still rests on you. It’s your choice whether to follow your surgeon’s recommendation or opt for an incision type that you’re more comfortable with.

Of course, your choice of incisions is dependent on several factors. These include the following:

  • Your Anatomy
  • Implant Type
  • Degree of breast enlargement
  • Your surgeon’s preference based on your unique case

Your doctor will consider these aspects during your consultation to help you make an informed decision about your choice. Regardless of your decision, your surgeon will strive to enhance your breasts in a way that you will be satisfied.

Primary Incision Types for Breast Augmentation

Your choice of incisions will affect the kind of result you have in mind. That said, it’s essential that you choose the type that will complement your goal. There are three primary options for incision, and each has its own pros and cons. Your doctor will discuss them at your consultation.

Periareolar

This approach will create an incision around the areola to make scars less noticeable. This gives the doctor better control over the breast implant’s position.

Transaxillary

An incision is made in the armpit to create a channel from the underarm to the breast, where the implants will be inserted. The appeal to this type of incision is there are no scars visible in the chest area, as the incision is made far from the breasts.

Inframammary

In this type, the incision is made along the crease beneath the breasts. Although scars may develop in this area, they are less noticeable, as they are hidden beneath the breast fold. This is ideal if you plan to become pregnant in the future.

Before you decide on an incision type, come in and consult with one of our surgeons. This way, you’ll be able to make an informed decision that will help you achieve your desired outcome.  Call Plastic Surgery Services of Fredericksburg today at 540-371-7730.

Don’t Compromise: How to Choose the Best Plastic Surgeon

Plastic surgery is a big deal. Even though plastic surgery is designed to change your appearance, the entire process can actually be life altering. Simply put, it can improve your physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing.

Part of the plastic surgery process is of course choosing the best plastic surgeon. However, the selection process can be confusing. So, we made a checklist to guide you.

Board Certification

Before a plastic surgeon can perform a surgery, he or she should meet the competency requirements. Being board-certified is a guarantee that the plastic surgeon has met the competency requirements set by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons, which is the only recognized board by the American Board of Medical Specialties.

Surgery Experience

Each area of plastic surgery requires a different kind of skill set. In addition to looking at your surgeon’s qualifications, you should look into his experience in performing the specific surgery or procedure you plan to get. His track record should make you feel confident that he or she is the right person for the job.

Aesthetics

When vetting a plastic surgeon, look for a doctor who has the same aesthetic sensibilities as yours. The standard of beauty is subjective. What one finds attractive may be different to another. So if you want to achieve beautiful results, choose a surgeon who understands your aesthetic goals. You can find the right surgeon by looking at his patients’ before and after photos.

Empathy

It’s normal in plastic surgery to encounter some bumps or hurdles as you go through the process. So it’s essential to look for a surgeon and a team that has unparalleled patient care. They should be professionals you like to spend time with; you can trust to make recommendations suitable for you; you can feel comfortable disclosing your complete medical history; and you can ask questions openly.

Customer Service

You will want to enjoy great service and treatment throughout the entire process. Pay attention to how the staff treats you the moment you walk into the surgeon’s office. Helpful materials to prepare you for your surgery should be readily available as well. Fees should be clearly stated and all-inclusive. Also, replies to queries or concerns should be prompt.

Operating Facility

The success of your surgery depends on the surgeon and the operating facility. Find a surgeon who will operate in a fully accredited facility to ensure your safety.

With this guide, it’ll now be easy for you to find the best plastic surgeon. Of course, you can save yourself from all this trouble by contacting Plastic Surgery Services of Fredericksburg directly at 540-371-7730. The practice ticks off all the factors above, giving you the assurance that you’ll be in good hands.

Party Perfect After Plastic Surgery: How Long Does It Take?

As we roll into the busy holiday season many patients wonder and worry about recovery times. How soon before an important holiday party can you schedule plastic surgery? Will you have healed enough to celebrate with family and friends this year? Here is a go to guide that can give you a better idea of how long it takes to go from plastic surgery to party perfect. Call us today at 540-371-7730 and schedule your pre-holiday cosmetic treatments.

Breast Augmentation

Gorgeous holiday curves are on the way. If you’re preparing for breast augmentation plan on being able to return to normal activities, including most holiday parties, in just a few days. You may have some soreness (be careful with hugs), but as long as you’re careful and not doing strenuous exercise, you should be fine.

Liposuction

Say goodbye to stubborn fat this holiday season. Liposuction can eliminate those diet and exercise resistant fat pockets. Usually a patient can return to work in 3 days, but you can have bruising and swelling for a few weeks after treatment. To minimize recovery times, consider SmartLipo since bruising and inflammation generally resolve within a week helping you get party perfect sooner.

Tummy Tuck

For many men and women the gift of a flat stomach is the only thing on their Christmas list this year. A tummy tuck can help you once again achieve this goal.  After a tummy tuck we encourage our patients to begin walking the same day.  Usually patients can be back to work in 5 to 7 days, but may want 2 weeks before an important holiday event.  If you are close to your ideal weight, a mini-tummy tuck may be all you need.  Patients generally recover from this procedure more quickly.

Facelift

Turn back the clock and look like you did at Christmas 10 years ago with a facelift. Many of our patients are surprised to find that facelift recovery isn’t as difficult as they expected. You will probably having some bruising and swelling for 2-3 weeks. Surprise everyone with a younger looking you this holiday season.

Tips for Attending Holiday Parties After Plastic Surgery

The holidays are a great time for plastic surgery, but it is important to take care of yourself in the weeks following surgery. As you attend holiday parties make sure to take your surgeon’s instructions into account. Avoid or limit alcohol as instructed and don’t smoke. As you recover, you’ll need extra rest. Take it easy this holiday season and enjoy a gorgeous new you!

Schedule your pre-holiday treatments now and look party perfect by New Year’s (or sooner).

7 Potentially Life Saving Questions to Ask Your Plastic Surgeon

Plastic surgery can be a safe way to enhance your natural beauty, but when it comes down to it, it is still surgery. For the safest possible experience and the best results, choose your surgeon carefully. Make sure you have someone with the right training and skills for your procedure. Yes, you might save some money by choosing an uncertified, bargain provider, but is saving a few dollars worth risking potential complications? These important questions will help you narrow down the candidates to find the best choice for your next plastic surgery procedure.

What Education and Training Do You Have?

Anyone can put on a white coat; you need a plastic surgeon with the right training. Ask about their educational background. Where did they train? How long have they been working in the field? What specialized training have they received? In most states any doctor can perform cosmetic surgery, even if they don’t have surgical training; choose a provider that specifically trained as a plastic surgeon.

Are You Board Certified in Plastic Surgery?

Choose a board certified plastic surgeon. If a doctor mentions they are board certified, ask them in which specialty. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons offers a helpful Find a Plastic Surgeon tool that you can use to find qualified providers in your area. Both Drs. Heppe and Bautista are board certified plastic surgeons and members of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

What Are Your Hospital Affiliations?

Even if you’re planning on having your surgical procedure performed in an office based surgical facility, you’ll want to choose a surgeon that has hospital privileges to perform this specific procedure. Accredited hospitals review the surgeon’s skills and performance before granting privileges. Be sure to ask about the specific procedure you’re considering.

Can I See Photos of Your Work?

If you’re considering liposuction, ask to see photos of this particular surgeon’s liposuction work. The same applies to any procedure you may be considering. Also ask about how many times the surgeon has performed the specific procedure or technique you are considering.

Where Will You Perform My Procedure?

Many plastic surgeons now perform surgeries in an office based surgical setting. If you’ll be receiving treatment out of hospital, ask about the accreditation of the facility. The American Association for the Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF) reviews the safety of independent surgical facilities.

What Are the Risks Associated with this Procedure?

Plastic surgery can be very safe, but it does carry risks. Make sure you understand the risks and potential benefits of any procedure you are considering. You may also want to ask about expected recovery and down times.

What Results Can I Expect from this Procedure?

No two bodies are the same. While a surgeon may show you beautiful photos of their past work, you’ll want to find out what results you can expect, specific to your body type and situation.

If you’re looking for board certified plastic surgeons in the Fredericksburg area, come on in to Plastic Surgery Services of Fredericksburg. We understand the importance of certification and encourage potential patients to ask questions about our qualifications.

More than 1 Million Cosmetic Procedures Were Performed on Men in 2013- What Are You Waiting For?

When you think of plastic surgery, you probably think of bikini clad women lounging on the beach. Although plastic surgery is a great way to whip your body into bikini perfection, women aren’t the only ones benefiting from cosmetic enhancement. An increasing number of men are turning to cosmetic procedures to upgrade their look. Here at Plastic Surgery Services of Fredericksburg we are pleased to serve both male and female patients. Men, don’t let the ladies enjoy all the benefits of plastic surgery; come in and let us help you achieve your most attractive self.

Male Plastic Surgery- Which Procedures Are Most Popular?

What plastic surgery procedures are men most interested in? According a recent study published by The American Society of Plastic Surgeons, men underwent more than 204,000 plastic surgery procedures in 2013. Some of the most popular were male breast reduction (gynecomastia), eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), facelift, liposuction, and nose reshaping (rhinoplasty).  In fact, 13% of all cosmetic surgery procedures were performed on male patients last year. If you’re a male patient considering plastic surgery, you aren’t alone.

Why are an increasing number of men opting for cosmetic surgery? Today’s modern surgical methods and minimally invasive options make cosmetic enhancement easier than ever. Men have also realized that they too deserve to look great. Why let women have all the fun of youthful and everlasting beauty? Eat healthy, hit the gym, and let cosmetic enhancement help you look your best. It can be your secret weapon to looking great in your 30s, 40s, 50s, and beyond.

Not Just Surgery- Men Love Minimally Invasive Options Too

Cosmetic surgery isn’t the only way for men to enhance their natural good looks. Just as women can enjoy minimally invasive treatment options for a quick beauty boost, men too can benefit from cosmetic treatments like BOTOX®, chemical peels, and laser skin rejuvenation treatments. Last year more than 385,000 men received BOTOX® injections, an increase of 310% from 2000. Chemical peels (94.625) and dermal fillers (95,361) were popular choices for male patients. Ask us how we can help you look your best.

Minimally invasive options like BOTOX® or dermal fillers are a great way to get started with cosmetic enhancement. Most treatments are performed in the comfort of our offices, taking less than an hour from start to finish. You can easily come in on your lunch and return to work right afterwards. With minimal recovery time and sometimes instant results, our male patients can start seeing the benefits of cosmetic treatment, without having to commit to a surgical procedure. Do you want to look better? This is a great way to start.

Last year more than 1 million cosmetic treatments were performed on male patients. What are you waiting for? Cosmetic enhancement isn’t just for women.

Breast Augmentation Frequently Asked Questions

1. Breast Lift vs Breast Augmentation: How to tell which is needed?

Usually this requires an examination, but if the nipple is below the Inframammary fold a lift is likely.

2. How to choose the right breast implant size?

We utilize sizers at the consultation so the patient can see the actual volume in her clothes.

3. Do breast implants lift slightly sagging breasts?

Yes, but significant sagging requires a breast lift.

4. Can I have breast implants under local anesthesia?

It is possible, but our total intravenous anesthesia provides significantly more comfort with the patient completely asleep, and breathing on their own.

5. Can I have breast implants if I’m planning to have kids in the future?

Yes.

6. Can I breast feed if I have breast implants?

Yes.

7. What is the best shape of implants to achieve more natural looking results?

All implants have pros & cons. Round implants under the muscle provide excellent results in the majority of patients.

8. Do silicone implants harden over time?

Implants do not harden, but scar tissue can develop around either saline or gel implants. Our incidence is <1%.

9. Do breast implants need to be replaced overtime?

Only if they rupture. There is no need to replace implants @ 10yrs which seems to be a common misconception.

10. How long is the downtime for breast augmentation surgery?

Three days, in addition we have a long acting local anesthesia that last 72 hrs. and dramatically reduces initial discomfort.

11. Silicone vs. Saline: Which breast implant is safer?

Neither is unsafe, but it may be difficult to know when a gel implant is ruptured.

12. What are the risks of breast implant?

No specific risk of the implants other than rupture, however surgery has risks of bleeding, infection, and scarring, There is also a risk of possible loss of nipple sensation and implants could make mammography more difficult.

To view our Breast Augmentation procedure page, click here.