Plastic Surgery Specialists

Add to Favorites

Claimed

Be the first to review!

CLOSED NOW

Today: 8:00 am - 3:00 pm

Tomorrow: Closed

Accredited

Business

(415) 925-2880Call Visit WebsiteVisit Website Map & DirectionsDirections350 Bon Air Rd Ste 300Greenbrae, CA 94904 Write a ReviewWrite Review

Hours

Regular Hours

Mon - Thu:	8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Fri:	8:00 am - 3:00 pm
Sat - Sun	Closed

Places Near Greenbrae with Physicians & Surgeons, Plastic & Reconstructive

Larkspur (2 miles)
Kentfield (2 miles)
Ross (2 miles)
San Rafael (3 miles)
Corte Madera (3 miles)
San Anselmo (4 miles)
Mill Valley (5 miles)
Fairfax (6 miles)
Belvedere Tiburon (11 miles)
Sausalito (11 miles)

Accepted Insurance

Plastic Surgery Specialists has not yet specified accepted insurance plans.

Specialties

Plastic Surgery Specialists has not yet specified any specialties.

More Info

BBB Rating: A+
BBB Rating and Accreditation information may be delayed up to a week.
Extra Phones: Phone: (415) 461-2825
Brands: Botox, Juvederm, Latisse, Restylane, Venus Freeze
Payment method: master card, visa
Neighborhoods: Bon Air Hill, North Larkspur
Languages: English, Spanish
Accreditation: For Profit Ambulatory Surgery Center
Other Link: http://psspecialists.com
Categories: Physicians & Surgeons, Plastic & Reconstructive, Physicians & Surgeons, Physicians & Surgeons, Cosmetic Surgery

GalleryView all (8)

Add Photos

Reviews

Hi there!
Be the first to review!

Click to Rate

Details

Phone: (415) 925-2880

Address: 350 Bon Air Rd Ste 300, Greenbrae, CA 94904

Website: http://psspecialists.com

Plastic Surgery Specialists

Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surgery

Women and men considering plastic surgery in Novato, San Rafael, Fairfax, Mill Valley, and other Marin County communities know there are many practices to choose from in the area.
Still, people from throughout the Bay Area choose Plastic Surgery Specialists in Greenbrae for the quality care and remarkable results they provide.
What are the most important qualities to look for in a surgeon when considering cosmetic or reconstructive plastic surgery?
Experience is at the top, especially performing the procedure that you want. You want a plastic surgeon who gets consistently excellent results that you can see in before-and-after photos. Choosing a surgeon who listens to your wishes, while also providing expertise in creating a surgical plan, is critical. And it's essential that the surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
At Plastic Surgery Specialists, Dr. Poulos, Dr. Douglas and Dr. Hvistendahl specialize in cosmetic breast surgery, body contouring, and facial rejuvenation.
Their patients get the benefit of nearly 50 years of combined experience, an exceptionally qualified staff, and an on-site, state-of-the-art surgical suite. Reconstructive plastic surgery is an integral part of our practice. Dr. Poulos, Dr. Douglas and Dr. Hvistendahl all have extensive experience in a range of these procedures and understand the delicate relationship between form and function that is the hallmark of reconstructive surgery.

Body

After Weight Loss Body Contouring

Complete Your Body Transformation
Body contouring procedures are the sure, surgical way to sculpt your form when sagging skin throws a wet towel over your weight loss celebration. Weight loss with the Gastric Balloon has transformed your life for the better, with one annoying caveat: loose and sagging skin on both body and face. Beating obesity has cleared you of a whole host of health risks. And fitting into sizes you haven't been able to wear for a long time is definitely a boost for the ego. But when you look in the mirror, you see the cape of loose skin that hangs from your body. Until you do something about it, you may feel your transformation journey is not yet complete. Plastic Surgery Specialists (PSS) perform a number of body contouring procedures following massive weight loss. We serve the San Francisco Bay Area with premium aesthetic services. Contact us to discuss how we'll give your look a lift. Call 415-384-9787. For your convenience, PSS now offers Virtual Consultations. Start your transformation journey from the comfort of your own home with our skilled and experienced Plastic Surgery Specialists!
What Is Body Contouring After Weight Loss?
If you have undergone a transformational weight loss of 100 pounds or more, your journey may only be half over. After losing a lot of weight you still may have loose, heavy folds of skin left as an unpleasant reminder of your former self.[1] PSS can remove the extra skin and improve the shape and tone of your whole body. There are several types of cosmetic surgery to help you gain a trimmer, firmer shape. Post-Weight Loss Body Contouring Procedures - Tummy Tuck, Body Lift, Arm Lift , Liposuction.
Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
Tummy Tuck is a body contouring procedure to remove loose skin at the abdomen. This procedure also surgically tightens the abdominal wall, because it is the underlying structure that has been stretched, and no amount of strengthening can fix the problem. Transformational weight loss can leave your belly skin looking like a deflated balloon. Once your skin is overstretched, it doesn't bounce back. Excisional surgery like abdominoplasty, to fix the abdominal wall structure and remove excess skin is the surest way to get the most gratifying results.
Full Body Lift
Many post-weight loss patients require a comprehensive approach to their sagging skin. A Full Body Lift is all-inclusive contouring from your knees to your shoulders. Be sure to discuss your full range of skin-tightening options with the doctors at Plastic Surgery Specialists. Many of our facial rejuvenation and body contouring procedures work well together; we can easily perform them all at once or in a sequence.
Arm Lift
Go sleeveless in the summertime. You've earned it. An Arm Lift will restore your right to bare arms. The procedure aims to flatter your guns by trimming your skin to hug your biceps. Batwings, begone! An arm lift will eliminate the cape of skin that hangs, bat-like, from your upper arms.
Liposuction
It is likely that your facial rejuvenation or body contouring procedures will involve a little Liposuction. We use a vacuum-powered cannula to reduce stubborn pockets of fat from around the neck and body. For your doctor, it is another potent instrument to sculpt your silhouette. We may deploy a couple of controlled injections of Kybella for more delicate fat removal around your face and chin. Kybella is a synthetic form of deoxycholic acid that melts fat like butter on contact.
About Post-Weight Loss Facial Rejuvenation
Dramatic weight fluctuations can overextend your skin's natural elasticity. Many people who have conquered obesity often find a new challenge confronting them at the threshold of true transformation: rolls of saggy skin that hang like a shroud from your body. Dermal collagen naturally degrades as we get older. Collagen is a structural protein that gives skin its supple, springy responsiveness when we are young. So your post-weight loss, stretched skin also adds to signs of aging. If you look in the mirror and see wrinkles, deep creases and a skin laxity, you may want to consider a facial rejuvenation procedure to help match your newly rejuvenated, slimmer body with your face. Our MedSpa often becomes a part of a true rejuvenation for the skin on the face. The doctors surgically tighten the skin and underlying structure, but the collagen and elastin-boosting procedures offered in the MedSPa are key components to a truly transformative facelift. We include a laser treatment with all of our facelift procedures because of the superior results. Reasons To Consider a Facelift - Double chin, Nasolabial folds (marionette lines), Jowls, Worry lines, Turkey neck. Curious about our other procedures? Check out our blog for the inside scoop on all we do at PSS.
Facelift (Rhytidectomy)
Our Facelift is an excisional surgery that tightens loose skin and muscles in the face. Rhytidectomy contours your visage, tightens your profile and reigns in the troublesome turkey neck that sends you web-surfing for turtleneck sweaters on sale. A full facelift is actually a combination of several contouring procedures that our doctors customize to the individual. Your full facelift is as unique as you are. It encompasses a possible mix of target areas that are calibrated according to your personal aesthetic objective.[2] Forehead lift, Eyelid surgery, Mid facelift, Lower facelift.
Neck Lift
A Neck Lift tapers the skin along your elegant jawline to bring your profile into focus. Bulbous, jowls that hang like a veil from your receding chin have ruined your selfies for long enough. The doctors at PSS will take away your turkey neck and grant you the countenance of a regal swan.
What Does Body Contouring Cost in the San Francisco Bay Area?
Your bespoke, aesthetic self-improvement plan is tailored to you. At your personal consultation, we will assess your case and hear your story. Our safe, state-of-the-art surgical center is conveniently located in the San Francisco Bay Area, in lovely Greenbrae, California. Our office offers with cutting edge technology and highly experienced staff. Plastic Surgery Specialists is a partnership between Dr. Stanley G. Poulos, Dr. Yngvar A. Hvistendahl and Dr. Trent D. Douglas. Our doctors have decades of experience and work as a team on larger procedures to ensure the safest outcomes and world-class results. We are leaders in the field. Our team at PSS work together to help you complete your journey and achieve your aesthetic dreams. At your personal consultation, we will work with you to create your customized treatment plan and quote you a cost estimate. Financing options are available, so your dreams are within your reach. Join the PSS Beauty Club and take part in our Brilliant Distinctions program for exclusive savings opportunities.
Does insurance cover body contouring after weight loss?
Insurance may cover a portion of your body contouring procedure. It depends on the extent of your symptoms and how exactly they may affect your overall health. As a rule, insurance does not cover cosmetic procedures. However, some insurance companies will cover body contouring surgery if you have issues with rashes or sores related to excess skin.

Facelift (Rhytidectomy)

QuickLift
If you only need a little lift, QuickLift may be for you. QuickLift is a mini facelift with fewer incisions and a shorter recovery time. Its overall results are subtler, but its most dramatic changes are targeted at the lower face and jawline.

Brow Lift & Blepharoplasty

Eyelid Surgery
Eyelid Surgery (blepharoplasty) is often paired with our brow lift to enliven your ocular area. Droopy eyelids can bunch up and muffle the unquenchable twinkle in your eyes. Don't stifle your smoldering peepers. Whatever tomorrow brings, you can rest assured you'll be there with open arms and open eyes because you had blepharoplasty at Plastic Surgery Specialists.

FAQ

Does body contouring leave scars?
The extent of your scars will vary depending on your procedure. For example, a full body lift will result in greater scars than liposuction. Your most apparent scars will begin to fade after the first six months of your recovery when the swelling from your procedure has gone down. You should see your scars noticeably improving all the time. They will fade to virtually nothing in six months to one year.
Is body contouring permanent?
The results of your post-weight loss body contouring procedures are long-lasting. In abdominoplasty, for instance, your surgeon skillfully trims away loose skin to flatter your body's natural contours. If you avoid major fluctuations in weight, then you will enjoy the benefits of the procedure for many years to come. Skin laxity, however, is a natural result of the aging process. So, as the years go on, loss of elasticity can continue.

Arm Lift

What is an Arm Lift?
An Arm Lift (or Brachioplasty) removes loose, sagging skin on the inner part of the upper arm. An Arm Lift can create more attractive arm contours in better proportion to the rest of the body. Sagging arm skin that doesn't respond to normal exercise can be one of the first signs of aging. Both thin and heavier men and women are candidates for an Arm Lift. In Marin County, the board-certified surgeons at Plastic Surgery Specialists also see younger people who have loose skin under the arm resulting from significant weight loss and even hereditary conditions.
Best Candidates
Brachioplasty surgery should be reserved for those who are unable to tone their upper arms through regular exercise; exercise can tone muscles, but not sagging skin. Patients who have minimal excess upper arm fat and no excess skin may find Liposuction a more effective treatment to meet their goals. Many Arm Lift candidates have undergone significant weight loss. Others are experiencing arm skin sagging as a result of aging. Aging causes inevitable changes in the body that you cannot control, such as sagging or drooping skin. Those who desire Arm Lift surgery should have a relatively stable body weight that is within, or at least not significantly beyond, the normal range for their height and body structure. All Brachioplasty procedure candidates should be in reasonably good health before surgery.
Consultation
At your private consultation with one of our board certified surgeons, you will share your concerns about your arms and your desired goals. Your doctor will perform an examination to determine if you are a good candidate for a Brachioplasty procedure. If you are, your doctor will assess which type of Arm Lift will give you optimal results. At this time you will receive an individualized preparation list as well as postoperative care instructions. Pricing and quotes can also be discussed at this time.
Preparation
There are some preliminary steps to complete before your Arm Lift surgery. You will be required to get certain medical tests and examinations completed. Stop smoking a couple weeks prior to your surgery, and you should avoid any herbal medications and anti-inflammatory drugs as these increase bleeding. Certain foods such as fruits and lean meat aid in speeding up recovery time; ask your surgeon for a list of these foods so you can stock up for the length of your recovery. The night before surgery you will be asked to take a shower with antibacterial soap. You should have all of your prescriptions filled prior so you have your medications immediately post-surgery. Do not bring any clothing to wear after surgery that you have to pull over your head; you want something that you can wrap around yourself and not need to lift your arms high. Arrange for a friend or family member to drive you home as you will be unable to yourself. It is recommended to have someone stay overnight with you to aid you at least during the first night of recovery.
The Procedure
For patients who have excess skin located near the armpit, a successful Arm Lift can be effected through an incision right in the armpit, rendering Brachioplasty scars virtually unnoticeable, especially as they begin to fade. For patients who exhibit a lot of excess skin on the upper arm, as can be the case for those who have undergone massive weight loss, tissue must be removed through an incision running from the elbow through the armpit. Your surgeon will take extra care to ensure resulting scars will be as hidden as possible. In some circumstances, it may also be necessary to extend the incision to an area at the side of the chest. Although there will always be a scar in the armpit, the scar on the inner aspect of the arm itself will vary from a few inches below the axilla to the entire length of the brachium depending on the degree of excess skin. More complex arm procedures can mean Brachioplasty scars, which fade over time. In some cases Liposuction may be done concurrently to reduce the arm size prior to tightening the skin. During a consultation in our 6,000 square foot medical center in Marin County, our patients can discuss with an Arm Lift surgery specialist which surgery option suits their needs best.
Post Arm Lift Recovery
You arms will be wrapped in bandages and/or a compression garment to reduce any swelling. Patients may be required to wear a small drain tubes for excess fluid, and if so you will be given specific instructions on how to care for them. Some numbness in the arms the first couple of weeks is normal and will subside. Do not take a shower the week after surgery or until told otherwise, sponge baths are okay until then. You will be prescribed antibiotics, pain medication and/or anti-nausea medication; take these as instructed. Bandages and drain tubes will be removed within a week and patients can return to work or normal activities within 3 to 7 days at your follow-up appointment. Refrain from strenuous activities and heavy lifting for at least 4-6 weeks. Visitors who searched for Arm Lift may also want to search Liposuction in San Francisco. If you are considering an Arm Lift and live in Novato, Mill Valley, or another area of Marin County, please schedule a consultation with Plastic Surgery Specialists today. Contact us at (415) 886-0777 and one of our friendly staff will help you begin your arm enhancing journey.
Results
The results are seen immediately after surgery, but best results can be seen in about 3 months, depending on the specific patient. Arm Lift surgery will create slim, contoured arms for many years to come, but gaining weight can alter the results. It is important to carry on a healthy lifestyle of exercising and eating well to ensure your results last. It should be noted, an Arm Lift cannot prevent against loss of skin elasticity due to aging. The definition people see in their arms from their procedure instills a new-found confidence as men and women feel more comfortable wearing clothing that shows of their arms.
Cost
The cost of Brachioplasty depends on the degree of your procedure. Undergoing additional body work or facial surgery at the same time will alter the cost of your surgery. You can receive a more accurate quote during your private consultation with one of our board-certified surgeons after they assess your specific case.

Types of Arm Lifts

Standard Brachioplasty
A Standard Brachioplasty involves an incision made from the elbow to the top of the armpit located on the back side of the arm. Excess skin and fat are appropriately removed and the skin is then redraped and tightened. The incision is closed with sutures. The scar will not be visible from the front and will diminish overtime. If desired, the incision can be made on the inner arm so the scar is not visible from behind, but may be seen from the front. Speak with your surgeon to see which will be the better option for you.
Mini Brachioplasty
A Mini Brachioplasty is ideal for those who only have a minimal amount of sagging underarm skin. The smaller incision is made in the axilla (armpit) or the top portion of the arm and the scar is hidden in the underarm area. This procedure is only meant for limited skin removal and tightening.
Extended Brachioplasty
The Extended Brachioplasty, also referred to as an L-shaped Brachioplasty, involves an incision that runs from the elbow, along the arm, ending at the bottom of the armpit. This allows for underarm skin and skin on the side of the chest to be tightened as well.

FAQs

What is the main trade off of an Arm Lift?
The scar often extends from the elbow to the armpit, which can sometimes be up to 6 inches in length. The scar is not apparent on the outer part of the arms but can be visible for many months after the surgery when the arms are elevated. In severe laxity the excision can include the lax skin to the lateral breast.
How long until I can use my arms for normal activities?
Most patients can resume limited activities in one to two weeks and full use of arms at about one month.
What is a Mini Brachioplasty?
In cases of minimal laxity the incision may be limited to the armpit area. Most of the hair bearing skin of the axilla is removed and the scar is limited to the axilla area. This results in a shorter scar but does not work for severe laxity.
How do I know what type of Arm Lift I need?
During your consultation your doctor will perform an examination and determine which of the techniques we perform will give you optimal results.
Why Doesn't Working Out Help Tighten My Arms and Prevent the Jiggle?
At a certain point because of aging, genetics, weight loss and other factors, under-arm jiggle cannot be solved without removing excess skin and fat. It is unfortunately one of the first places aging becomes obvious.

Brazilian Butt Lift

What is the Brazilian Butt Lift?
The surgery is actually a transplant of your own adipose (fat) tissue from one area of the body to the butt. Liposuction is used to remove excess fat from abdomen, flanks, back or thighs which is then prepared to allow injection into the buttock region to optimize body contour. Sculpting the soft tissues immediately surrounding the buttock defines the added fullness of the transplantation. It's all about the curves.
Pros and Cons of the Brazilian Butt Lift
At Plastic Surgery Specialists our Board Certified surgeons feel this procedure is a safer and more predictable option over implants for buttock enhancement. The results look and feel natural because they are. In addition the ability to shape other areas of the body concurrently with no addition to healing time is a plus. The downside is that not everyone who lacks buttock contour has enough donor fat to be a good candidate. In addition the degree to which the transplanted fat remains over time can not be predicted 100%; but with careful technique great lasting results can be achieved.
Consultation
Brazilian Butt Lift consultation with our experienced surgeons at our Bay Area location will determine if you are a good candidate, and how your figure can best be sculpted as this procedure must definitely be tailored to each individual. Realistic expectations of improvement will be presented.
Additional Procedures
For some individuals, additional procedures other than liposuction may be considered concurrently. These include breast augmentation or lift, abdominoplasty or tummy tuck, and fat transfer to other areas such as the face. The first goal in every procedure is to be safe. The general health and motivation of each individual must be taken into account in designing the best surgery.
Costs
Due to the highly customized approach of this surgery an estimate of costs prior to consultation is very difficult. However at PSS consultation an exact quotation of all costs including those of our accredited surgery center, our team of Board Certified anesthesiologists, and all post op care will be included in one fee and 0 interest financing is available. Please feel free to contact our Marin County office today to request your Brazilian Butt Lift consultation.

Cellulaze

What Is Cellulite?
Adiposis edematosa, or cellulite, is a skin condition where connective fibers pull down on the skin and created a dimpled appearance. This occurs when fat deposits grow in size and push skin outward, but the underlying connective fibers to not stretch with the skin. Because of this, depressed areas appear on the skin from the pulling of the connective fibers, giving a "cottage cheese" or "orange peel" look to the skin. Cellulite is often caused by hormones, genetics, slow metabolism, lack of physical activity, and/or thickness of skin. Cellulite can also worsen with age as the body produces less and less estrogen, and poor circulation which can lead to a decrease in collagen production. It is often believed that only larger women get cellulite, when in fact women of all shapes and sizes can get cellulite. Yes, the more fat you have the more stress in placed on connective fibers which creates more noticeable cellulite, but even the leanest of woman can have cellulite depressions that diet or working out cannot get rid of. Extensive exercise can diminish the appearance of cellulite, but it will never get rid of it since it is caused by an underlying condition.
What Is Cellulaze?
The treatment results in an improvement in most cases that was not possible before the introduction of Cellulaze. Cellulaze body contouring, available for our Marin, Napa, and Sonoma County patients, is the first and only cellulite laser treatment that is backed by extensive clinical data showing results lasting up to a year. The device's 1,440nm laser fiber has a triple effect on damaged skin: detaching the fibrous bands beneath the skin that cause depressions, removing the pouch of skin that surrounds the area, and finally heating the subdermal layer to cause increased collagen production. The treatment is often done in one sitting with visible improvement appearing within days.
Areas Treated
Cellfina cellulite removal treatment is FDA approved to get rid of cellulite on the: Buttocks, Upper thighs, Lower thighs.
How Cellulaze Works
Cellfina is a small handheld device which uses a 1,440nm laser fiber to break the connective tissue bands that contribute to cellulite and heat the subdermal layer of skin to increase production of collagen and smooth the skin. This is done with just a few microscopic incision in the skin for the cannula to reach the connective fibers. The Cellulaze laser fiber then releases the fibrous bands pulling on the skin, while simultaneously treating the skin to make it firm and smooth. This process can be compared to the stretching of a rubber band, and when it gets released it goes back to its relaxed state.
Cellulaze vs. "Cellulite Removing" Creams & Serums
Some creams on the market claim to get rid of cellulite, which is impossible. No creams have been tested and proven to get rid of cellulite. Retinol has been tested to temporarily relieve cellulite depressions, but this only masks the symptom. A good comparison is spreading frosting over a lumpy cake; this briefly masks the issue. Caffeine and green tea products also have little evidence backing up their claims. The only way to actually get rid of cellulite is to address the connective fibers which no topical cream can accomplish, prescription or over-the-counter.
Best Candidates
Cellulaze is a treatment for patients with a specific skin condition called cellulite. Cellulite is a condition that plagues a very high percentage of women. It is only present in women since women's connective fiber pattern runs vertically, while men's connective fiber pattern lies flat over the muscle, so they cannot pull down on the skin unlike the vertical fibers. Cellulite is a specific condition characterized by contracted fibrous septae causing bunching and dimpling of the skin with protruding pockets that create a "cottage cheese" appearance. It is different from lax skin, which requires an excisional procedure to correct. Some patients may be candidates for Smartlipo™ as well, which is usually done in a separate stage.
Consultation
During your one-on-one consultation with one of our PSS Cellulaze specialists, you will have the opportunity to explain your aesthetic concerns and your desired outcome. Your surgeon will perform a detailed examination of the problem areas while you are in a standing position with your muscles relaxed so he can examine each depression precisely and accurately. This examination is important in order for your surgeon to be able to assess the perfect personalized treatment plan for your specific condition and treatment areas. Please mention past surgeries and medical history as this may alter the treatment plan.The procedure will be explained fully so you are aware of each step of the process; we want to make sure you are comfortable with your decision. The only preparation needed before your Cellulaze treatment at Plastic Surgery Specialists is discontinuing herbal supplements and anti-inflammatory medications 2 weeks before your procedure date. Any further personalized instructions given to you for your specific case should be followed to ensure optimal results.
The Procedure
Your surgeon first marks a patient's skin on the areas to be treated. Then the surgeon injects a local anesthetic and wetting solution to the cellulite and inserts the 1,440 nm laser fiber. The high points are lasered away while the unique side-cutting laser removes the contracted fibrous bands responsible for the cellulite. Finally, the subdermal region is treated for increased collagen production. Cellulaze treatments can release up to 25 cellulite dimples in a single session. No suctioning of the lasered area is required. The procedure usually takes about 1-2 hours with minimal to no discomfort and bruising. Gauze pads are then placed on the treatment area after the procedure with a compression garment or bandaging.
Recovery
After a Cellulaze cellulite treatment in Marin County, there is some drainage of residual fluid for 24 hours, followed by a rapid return to normal activities. Initial improvement may be noted in 1 to 4 weeks, with increased collagen thickening providing enhanced results after about 3 to 4 months. Compression garments may be worn for comfort, and most patients return to work within a few days depending on the size of the treated area. Patients interested in Cellulaze may also consider liposuction or other body contouring procedures. If you are considering Cellulaze and live in Greenbrae, Larkspur, Corte Madera, Mill Valley, Santa Rosa, San Rafael, Novato or surrounding areas, please schedule a consultation with Plastic Surgery Specialists today. Contact us at (415) 886-0777 or schedule a consultation online.
Cost
The cost of your Cellulaze treatment is dependent on your specific case, how many areas are treated, and the size of the treatment areas. Additional body contouring or procedures will change the price as well. For a personalized quote, please schedule a consultation online or give us a call at (415) 886-0777 and begin your journey to beautifully smooth skin.

Cellulite can be classified into 3 different categories:

Level 1
Anatomical changes are detected by microscopic examination, but there are no clinical symptoms.
Level 2
Anatomical changes are detected by microscopic examination and in low temperatures on those with pasty skin.
Level 3
Level 2 symptoms accompanied by visible roughness.

FAQs

What are the side effects?
Mild bruising, discomfort, numbness, and swelling, all of which resolve within 2 to 3 months.
Can it be done under local anesthesia?
Yes, a major benefit is the ability to safely and effectively treat cellulite under local anesthesia with a quick recovery.
Can the procedure be repeated for different areas?
Yes. It is often best to limit the time of treatment to 1 to 2 hours. If there are multiple areas of concern, they can be addressed later to allow for a quick return to normal activities.
Will Cellulaze completely erase my cellulite?
In studies, 93% of patients have shown significant improvement. Complete resolution of such a complex problem will not occur in every case.

Full Body Lift

What is a Body Lift?
Body Lift is a term that refers to procedures that lift and tighten the abdomen, inner and outer thigh, and in some cases, medial thigh and buttock concurrently. In other words, the body lift addresses all areas from the bottom of the breast to the mid-thigh with a combination of skin tightening, and fat removal or repositioning falls under the umbrella term of body contouring. San Francisco Bay Area residents who choose Plastic Surgery Specialists in Marin County often modify the procedure to include an Arm Lift or Breast Reduction. Liposuction may be included as part of the surgery to further the results of the body lift. Liposuction is also used for fat transfer to the buttock or face, to balance out areas that have sagged due to fat loss. Fat loss in the face is not always a good thing for a youthful appearance!
Skin Elasticity
Skin elasticity is a term used to describe your skin's ability to bounce back to its original shape after being pulled or tugged. Loss of elasticity comes with aging, reduction of collagen, and the change in your body's shape due to significant shifts in weight. Each person's skin's elasticity will vary depending on their genetics, age and lifestyle factors, such as environmental hazards, smoking, poor eating habits, lack of sleep and stress. Studies have also shown that those who are overexposed to the sun experience greater weathering and degradation to the elasticity of their skin. When it comes to relatively sudden and significant changes in body weight, the skin often can't keep up, which results in sagging skin. Typically in these cases, a body lift is by far the most effective method for dealing with the massive amounts of sagging skin.
Good Candidates
If you've recently lost a lot of weight and hope to rid yourself of excess skin around the midsection and elsewhere, you are probably a good candidate for a body lift procedure. In our Greenbrae surgical center, our board-certified surgeons can sculpt and shape the most common problem areas on the body, creating a toned and fit-looking physique. They should be in good health and feel committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle post-surgery. To determine a patient's candidacy, please contact our office and schedule a private consultation with one of our talented physicians, Dr. Hvistendahl, Dr. Douglas or Dr. Poulos. Candidates for Body Lift surgery should have completed their weight loss program and attained a stable weight.
Preparing for the Procedure
To ensure the best results, you will follow some steps in the weeks leading up to the procedure. Our team of highly trained staff will guide you and make recommendations. Generally speaking, if you are a smoker, you will be asked to stop three weeks before the procedure. Also, if you are taking any anti-inflammatory medication, you should stop at least two weeks before. All of these steps will be discussed during your consultation.
The Procedure
Because a body lift surgery can address several different areas, the necessary steps for the procedure will differ widely from one individual to another. The body lift surgery usually begins with an incision to the treatment area. The excess skin on each region will be removed, and the incisions will then be closed using thin sutures. After the procedure is complete, each area is wrapped in a compression garment, and the patient is taken to our recovery area where excellent nursing staff monitors the patient for several hours before being able to return home.
Recovery
Body lift surgery can take four to seven hours and is performed under general anesthesia. Our team approach can significantly reduce the number of hours under anesthesia because we have two doctors in the operating room working as a team. The results are visible almost immediately, though it may take well over a year for the full outcome to become evident. Patients who are searching for information on body lifts may also be interested in liposuction or a Tummy Tuck. If you are considering body contouring surgery and live in Mill Valley, San Rafael, or another area of Marin County, please schedule a consultation with Plastic Surgery Specialists today. Contact us at (415) 886-0777.
Schedule Your Consultation
One of the most critical aspects of any cosmetic procedure is your consultation. Choosing doctor with the experience and expertise, as well as someone you feel comfortable with, can ensure that you have the best experience and are satisfied with the results. Together Dr. Hvistendahl, Dr. Douglas and Dr. Poulos have over four decades of experience with more than forty thousand successful procedures under their belts.

Body Lift Techniques

Upper Body Procedures

Arm Lift
Also known as the brachioplasty, this technique designed to remove sagging underarm skin, sometimes referred to as a "bat wings." This procedure typically involves removing the excess skin under the arms with an incision under the backside of the arms near the armpits.
Breast Lift
A surgical procedure that removes excess skin and reshapes the breast mound to a more anatomically youthful position. There are many techniques used for a breast lift depending on the amount of sagging and the shape of an individual's breasts. Usually, excess skin is removed from the lower half, and the nipple-areola complex is adjusted for a proportionate, lifted appearance.
Back Lift
A back lift corrects excess skin on the upper portion of the back, also known as bra rolls. This concern can prevent clothes from fitting correctly or can hinder your overall body contour due to the look of "back rolls." The excess skin is removed and joined to provide a slimmer, more contoured back.

Lower Body Procedures

Tummy Tuck
Also known as an abdominoplasty, a tummy tuck removes excess skin around the waist and abdomen. Incisions are made along the lower abdomen, from hip to hip, and the abdominal muscles tightened. The excess skin is removed, and the remaining skin will be joined to provide a flat, sculpted midsection.
Thigh Lift
A thigh lift removes sagging, excess skin from around the inner and outer thighs. Incisions can be made along the inner thighs or outer thighs to remove excess skin. The skin is then lifted upwards and tightened for a more contoured, toned appearance. Any scars that remain will continue to fade and can be hidden under a majority of clothing.
Butt Lift
A butt lift is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin from the buttocks to provide you with a more youthful behind. The surgeon makes an incision at the top of the buttocks to near the hip area. The doctor will then remove the excess skin and lift the remaining skin upwards, securing the buttocks to a more lifted position. Each of the above methods is also further customizable according to the individual's body type and goals. Overall, there are four steps to the procedure. First, patients are placed under general anesthesia to ensure their safety and comfort. Second, incisions are made near the areas to be treated. The size, shape, and location of the incisions depend on the type of lift being performed. Third, the excess skin is removed, and sutures are used to close the incisions and secure the skin in its more youthful placement. Finally, you return home and to start your recovery.

FAQs

Who Is a Candidate for A Lower Body Lift?
Patients who have had significant changes in body size, such as massive weight loss from bariatric surgery are excellent candidates. Typically these patients have an envelope of skin that no longer fits their body size. Therefore, it is necessary to tailor this "skin suit" to a size that matches the new body appearance. By extending the scar from the tummy tuck circumferentially to the crease just above the buttock, the entire waistline, buttock, and lateral thigh can be lifted in one procedure. In some cases, an additional incision is made in the inguinal crease, and the medial thigh is lifted, as well.
What Is the Recovery Like from A Body Lift?
As would be expected, the more surgery required, the longer the recovery. However, the increased recovery period is primarily limited to the first week as it is difficult to be comfortable with the incisions on the front and back of the body. If this surgery is contemplated, it is very important to have assistance at home for the first several days following the surgery.
Is Body Lift Surgery Sometimes Combined with Breast or Facial Surgery as The Laxity Appears Common to All Areas?
In many cases, surgery in all areas is required to achieve an optimal balance in body contour. Your doctor can determine the best way to safely stage the operation in order to achieve the best result. This can be better determined during the initial consultation.
What Is a Body Lift and Why Do You Need One?
A body lift is a procedure that circumferentially removes excess skin from the mid-torso (extended tummy tuck) that typically presents after significant weight loss. It often includes additional areas affected by weight loss, like the thighs, back and arms.

Labiaplasty

What is Labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty, or labioplasty, is a cosmetic reconstructive surgery performed on the labia minora to reduce or enhance its appearance. Labia hypertrophy is a condition where the labia minora projects outward beyond the labia majora; this can result from puberty or present from birth. Generally there is no medical necessity to reconstruct an enlarged labia; however, it can be terribly bothersome both emotionally and physically. Bikinis and fitted pants are not top choices for women with labia hypertrophy as they can create irritation caused by friction, and the visibility can cause significant embarrassment. Labiaplasty is specially designed to address the aesthetics of the vaginal area and restore feminine confidence. It can also be used as a reparative surgery to restore a labia that has torn due to childbirth or injury.
Labiaplasty Candidates
Candidates for labiaplasty surgery are women in good health who have experienced pain or irritation from labia hypertrophy, whose labia minora has torn from childbirth, or those that are unsatisfied with the appearance of their labia minora. There is no age restriction to undergo the surgery, but it is most commonly performed on women between the ages of 20 and 40 years old.
Consultation
At your initial labiaplasty consultation at Plastic Surgery Specialists, you will explain the emotional or physical discomfort you experience caused by labia hypertrophy. An examination will be performed to determine if you are a suitable candidate for labiaplasty, and if so, the correct technique will be chosen. From this technique, a custom tailored surgical plan will be created in order to provide you with the best results possible. Questions and inquiries concerning preparation, recovery, the procedure itself, results you can expect, and price will all be answered at this time. Each case is different so results vary, but before and after photos are available for those who wish to get an idea of potential outcomes.
The Procedure
The technique chosen will dictate procedure length, which can range from 30 minutes to 2 hours. Labiaplasty can be performed with either local or general anesthesia depending on the patient's preference and surgeon recommendation. Markings are made on the areas of the labia and/or clitoris that are to be excised. The surgeon will remove labia tissue based on the technique chosen during the consultation, while making sure to leave enough tissue for proper functionality; functionality and patient health are more important than aesthetics. With that said, the surgeon will excise enough tissue so the labia minora lies neatly in the labia majora and functionality is preserved. Absorbable sutures are used to close the incision so they do not need to be removed at a later date. A follow-up appointment will however be scheduled to assess your recovery and healing progress.
After Your Procedure
Dr. Poulos, Dr. Douglas and Dr. Hvistendahl of Marin are experts at labiaplasty surgery and do everything in the power to deliver excellent, lasting results. Tenderness and swelling are normal occurances post labiaplasty surgery and will subside in several days, but ice pack applications and pain medication can help reduce any discomfort in the meantime. Patients can walk immediately following their surgery, but it is recommended that they take a few days off work to rest. Sitting can irritate the incision site, so lying down is advised for those recovery days. Loose fitting clothing is necessary during the recovery period; the transition to fitted pants shouldn't be rushed. Patients are able to shower the day after surgery with a gentle soap, but it is important to make sure not to tug or pull on the stitches. Please stay away from pools, jacuzzis, and baths until instructed otherwise. A cream will be given to you to for application for at least three days to keep the incision sites lubricated. Do not use tampons or engage in sexual activities for the first two months following surgery; these could cause the incision sites to tear. Side effects after labiaplasty surgery are rare, but can include pain, bleeding, or change in sensation. If the incision sites are properly taken care of they should heal wonderfully. If not, there is the possibility that the incision sites can harden or tear, requiring an additional labia surgery.
Cost
Labiaplasty procedures are wide-ranging in cost as they are completely customizable. Each individual patient will undergo a procedure tailored to their specific case, providing them with their desired result. An estimation of cost will be given based on that customization.

Reasons to Undergo Labiaplasty Surgery

Unable to wear fitted pants because of friction and irritation.
Embarrassment caused when wearing a bikini because enlarged labia minora is visible through the bottoms or the excess folds stick out from the bottoms.
Stretching or tearing occurring from childbirth.
Discomfort experienced with physical activities such as riding a bike or running.
Feminine hygeine is a concern.
Shy away from intimate encounters because of self-consciousness.

Liposuction

What is Liposuction?
Liposuction (or Lipoplasty) removes fat from between the skin and the underlying muscle through a suctioning process. Ultrasonic Liposuction procedures are performed by our by our board-certified plastic surgeons in Marin County usingour state-of-the-art surgery center for the purpose of eliminating stubborn excess fat in specific regions of the body. These can include the face (Facial Liposuction or Chin Liposuction), neck, abdomen, buttocks, hips and thighs, and other areas as well. However, Liposuction is not appropriate to address general weight problems. Liposuction procedures are best used to correct area-specific weight issues that have not responded well to diet and exercise. It is a great way to reduce pockets of fat in specific areas.
Best Candidates
The best candidates for Ultrasonic Liposuction are men and women who are in good health and have reasonable expectations. Reducing one's weight as much as possible before a Liposuction procedure can be instrumental in achieving an optimal result. People taking medications or who have medical conditions will want to go over their medical histories especially carefully with their surgeon in advance of Liposuction to make sure that they are not likely to have an increased risk of complications. Patients who would rather avoid surgery may be candidates for CoolSculpting®, a non-invasive body contouring option. Liposuction may be a stand-alone procedure or it may be used in combination with other body contouring operations such as Tummy Tuck or Body Lift. If your skin lacks sufficient elasticity, procedures to remove loose and sagging skin may be necessary in order to achieve a sculpted more refined and smooth appearance once the excess fat has been removed. PSS has introduced the exciting new intraoperative skin-tightening device called Renuvion. The procedure uses rapid heating of collagen fibers to improve both skin laxity and turgor. It has been shown to contract the skin and build collagen, making it an ideal treatment in conjunction with Liposuction.
The Procedure
Liposuction is usually performed with local or general anesthesia on an outpatient basis, though there may be circumstances where it is better for the patient to spend the night. Fat is removed by Liposuction surgeons from specific regions of the body through a narrow tube (called a cannula) inserted into a tiny incision only a few millimeters in length. Modern technology has provided methods for emulsifying fat before it is suctioned out. This means Ultrasonic Liposuction causes less discomfort and minimal blood loss.
Post Lipoplasty Procedure
Depending on the amount of fat removed and its location, you will likely have some discomfort and bruising and even some pain following your Liposuction procedure. If necessary, you may need a drainage tube to channel fluid away from the incision. Wearing a special elastic compression garment will help to minimize tenderness. Scarring should be minimal, because the incisions are so small. Plastic Surgery Specialists will make sure that you leave with instructions that will help to ensure your comfort and also alert you to the onset of any infections or other complications. It will take one to two weeks before you can expect to see results. For more information on Liposuction, please visit our 3D Education Center. Visitors who searched for Liposuction may also be interested in Tummy Tuck, Body Lift, Arm Lift, or Mommy Makeover. If you are considering liposuction and live in cities such as Greenbrae, Larkspur, Corte Madera, Mill Valley, Santa Rosa, and San Rafael please schedule a consultation with Plastic Surgery Specialists today. Contact us at (415) 886-0777.

FAQ

What can I expect from my liposuction results?
Our surgeons can make a reasonable determination at your examination as to what your expected results will be. Patients with good, elastic skin tone and localized fatty deposits typically get most satisfying results. In other words, someone who is 100 pounds overweight with fat evenly distributed throughout their body presents a very difficult, if not impossible sculpting task. Liposuction shouldn't be considered a weight-loss procedure. Localized fat deposits in the hips, tummy, or thighs are easily contoured. The second factor influencing the result is the elasticity of the skin. Liposuction alone doesn't tighten skin; we must rely on the skin's inherent elasticity to shrink to the new contour. Liposuction also doesn't remove cellulite or skin irregularities, which is why we may combine liposuction with skin tightening treatments.
How long does the surgery take and what is the recovery period like?
Recovery time depends on the number of areas treated and the amount of fat removed. If you undergo extensive liposuction, it's important to have assistance at home for several days following the surgery. You may be asked to wear an elastic garment to help minimize swelling and enhance comfort during your recovery. Some discomfort and heavy bruising is common, but it will resolve gradually during the first week or 2 after surgery. Local anesthetic used during liposuction, followed up by anti-inflammatory medicine following the operation, minimizes the recovery time for most people.
What is LipoSelection®?
LipoSelection, developed by VASER®, melts fatty deposits using ultrasound technology that doesn't damage surrounding blood vessels or nerves. That allows our surgeons to remove fat with less discomfort and bruising than often occurs with traditional liposuction techniques. VASER liposuction is the most common technique we use at our office. For smaller areas of localized fat, especially on the face and neck, we offer Smartlipo®.
What is the tumescent technique?
Tumescent liposuction is considered the traditional technique. Tumescent refers to the fluid, which is infused into the treatment area prior to suctioning. Tumescent fluid is a salt water solution containing epinephrine, which makes the fat easier to extract and shrinks up the blood vessels. This minimizes the blood loss that occurs with the procedure and allows larger amounts of fat to be removed while minimizing potential complications.
What are the main risks associated with liposuction?
Every surgery has some degree of risk, but the option of local anesthesia and techniques which minimize blood loss significantly reduce the risks associated with liposuction. When we perform liposuction, we are trying not only to remove fat, but to do it with a smooth contour of the treated skin. If the pre-existing skin elasticity is poor or liposuction is aggressively performed the resulting contours may not be even. Our doctors discuss the expected contours which could be achieved with your individual procedure.
Will the fat that is suctioned out come back?
No, the removed fat will not come back. However, if you gain weight, the fat likely will appear in an area surrounding treated areas. Maintaining a stable weight following surgery is the key to getting the best results.

Latest Liposuction Posts From Our Blog

Cosmetic Surgery as Back to School Prep?
Read More at: https://www.psspecialists.com/breast-augmentation/cosmetic-surgery-as-back-to-school-prep/.
What are the most common cosmetic procedures?
Read More at: https://www.psspecialists.com/breast-augmentation/what-are-the-most-common-cosmetic-procedures/.
4 Plastic Surgery Procedures for Men
Read More at: https://www.psspecialists.com/coolsculpting/four-plastic-surgery-procedures-for-men/.

Arm Liposuction

About Arm Liposuction
Arm Liposuction is a minimally-invasive, FDA-approved fat elimination surgery. Dr. Poulos, Dr. Douglas and Dr. Hvistendahl custom-tailor every arm liposuction procedure to address the unique needs of the patient. Their advanced arm liposuction techniques deliver superior results, reduce recovery times, and look natural. Incisions are small and easily concealed. You can regain confidence and feel good about your defined, shapely arms. Arm liposuction at Plastic Surgery Specialists is far more than just a way to address difficult-to-lose fat: arm liposuction is an arm sculpting solution. PSS also offers Emsculpt for post-surgery muscle development. Please read further about Emsculpt here. Dr. Poulos, Dr. Douglas and Dr. Hvistendahl achieve beautiful arm liposuction results with traditional tumescent liposuction, but also offer advanced techniques like ultrasound or laser liposuction. Their skill and years of experience enable them to deliver their patient's ideal arm contours, every time, with arm liposuction. The liposuction technique that you receive will depend on your personal preference, the needs of your case, and your surgeon's recommendation.
Liposuction & Arm Lift
Do your arms flap or jiggle when you move them? Your arm issues may be a result of loose skin, in addition to stubborn fat. Skin laxity is a common issue that occurs with age or after major weight loss. Patients who have a mild case of skin laxity often restore their skin tone with the help of ultrasound or laser technology. We can advise patients post-surgery what non-surgical device will be most effective for skin laxity. Whether it is ultrasound, light, or radio frequency technology, minor skin laxity can be helped by various modalities. If you have a moderate or severe case of skin laxity, you are a good candidate for the benefits of arm lift. The arm lift is a skin-removal procedure designed to eliminate loose, sagging skin from the arms and achieve smooth, tight contours. Many patients combine arm liposuction with arm lift to accomplish their ideal arm rejuvenation. Renuvion is a helium-based skin tightening technology we can use during surgery to sub-dermally tighten the skin and stimulate collagen. Results have been quite impressive.
Candidates
Fat that does not respond to diet and exercise can be frustrating. Age frequently makes weight loss even harder. If the fat on your arms refuses to shrink, no matter how much you work out and eat right, you are a good candidate for arm liposuction. Arm liposuction is not a weight-loss procedure. It is a body contouring solution intended to help overall healthy individuals address specific pockets of subcutaneous fat. If you have loose skin on your arms, you are a good candidate to combine arm liposuction with arm lift surgery. Patients with healthy skin laxity and stubborn arm fat may also be interested in CoolSculpting, a convenient, non-invasive fat elimination treatment. CoolSculpting offers applicators that are perfect for addressing unwanted fat on the arms. CoolSculpting relies on the science of fat-freezing to safely trigger fat cell breakdown. The treatment is over in 45 minutes, with no downtime. The body breaks down and eliminates the fat over a number of weeks following the treatment. Patients see a reduction in the size of their arms within six weeks of CoolSculpting. Results continue to improve for up to six months. A single CoolSculpting session will eliminate fat by up to 25%. Typically Coolsculpting requires at least two treatments for optimal results. If you are frustrated by the fat on your arms and do not want to undergo a surgical procedure, CoolSculpting is an effective way to reduce arm fat without any downtime, keeping in mind the procedure will not tighten the skin. The fat elimination treatment that is right for you will depend on how quickly you would like to see results, how dramatic a change you want to make, and your doctor's professional recommendation.
Consultation
Dr. Poulos, Dr. Douglas or Dr. Hvistendahl will meet privately with you to determine if arm liposuction is right for you. They will discuss the changes you would like to make to your arms and answer any questions you have about tumescent liposuction, laser, or ultrasound liposuction. They will also assess your medical history and medication use to make sure your arm-contouring procedure is appropriate for you. Based on their examination of your case, they will work with you to create a treatment plan that will best achieve your desired look. If you still have questions after your consultation, please do not hesitate to contact Plastic Surgery Specialists.
Preparation
Patients may be asked to discontinue the use of certain medications prior to your surgery date. Due to the after-effects of anesthesia, patients are advised to arrange for a friend or family member to drive them to and from their arm liposuction surgery. We recommend asking this person to stay with you overnight for the first night of your recovery. This will guarantee you have the most comfortable start to your recovery possible. Consider buying easy-to-prepare meals ahead of time and arranging for help with children or pets to avoid placing any strain on your arms. Every patient will receive personalized instructions to help them prepare for the arm liposuction procedure.
Results
You will notice that your arms are slimmer immediately after your arm liposuction. There will be bruising and swelling in the treated area, but these conditions are normal and will subside within the first week. Patients are able to return to work in less than a week after arm liposuction. Your recovery timeline will depend on your personal healing rate and the physical demands of your job. Patients will receive instructions to help them control any post-procedure discomfort. Post-procedure swelling will continue to subside for up to three to six months following arm liposuction. As swelling subsides, your arms will reveal the new, slimmer shape post-surgery. Within six weeks to three months, you will see the final contours of your arms emerge. Your arms will be slimmer, your skin will be tighter, and you'll look forward to wearing short sleeves again.
Arm Liposuction Cost
The price of arm liposuction depends on the details of the patient's personalized treatment plan. The liposuction technique, anesthesia method, and amount of fat that will be addressed all play a role in procedure pricing. Once you have finalized your arm liposuction surgical plan with Dr. Poulos, Dr. Douglas or Dr. Hvistendahl, you will receive an appropriate cost estimate.

What are the Benefits of Arm Liposuction?

It achieves long-lasting fat elimination
It can be nearly impossible to eliminate arm jiggle without surgery
The procedure puts minimal strain on the arms
Patients are often back to work within a week
The treatment is completely customized to achieve desired results
Arms become smooth and sleek
The procedure can achieve a toned, athletic look
It improves arm contours to help restore confidence and a healthy self-image

Liposuction Techniques

Traditional Liposuction
Traditional Liposuction is performed using a slim cannula, tumescent fluid, and a small number of well-placed, tiny incisions. The tumescent fluid is first injected into the appropriate area of the arms and given time to take effect. Tumescent fluid is a mixture of saline, adrenaline, and lidocaine. The fat cells absorb the fluid and become enlarged. The enlarged fat cells are easier to target and gently extract from the body. Tumescent fluid has the added benefit of constricting blood vessels in the area. Patients experience reduced post-procedure bruising and swelling as a result. Once the tumescent fluid has taken effect, your surgeon inserts a slim cannula through a small incision. Incisions are made in places where they will be easily concealed, such as the underarm. Your surgeon uses the cannula to gently dislodge and suction out unwanted fat deposits from the arms. Once the desired contour has been achieved, incisions will be closed with fine sutures.
Ultrasound Liposuction
Ultrasound liposuction eliminates fat from the arms with the assistance of sound waves. In order to perform ultrasound liposuction, your surgeon will first inject tumescent fluid into the treatment area. Once the arms are prepared, Dr. Poulos, Dr. Douglas or Dr. Hvistendahl will use a cannula with an ultrasound device in the tip to target and emulsify fat deposits. The cannula will then safely suction the fat from the body. The ultrasound has the benefit of tightening tissue in the area. The result is tighter skin and a slimmer, smoother arm contour. Ultrasound liposuction has proven particularly successful at achieving a toned, muscular look of the arms.
Laser Liposuction
Laser liposuction applies targeted thermal energy to melt fat deposits for easy extraction. Once the tumescent fluid has taken effect, your surgeon will use a slim cannula containing a laser microfiber to melt stubborn fat deposits. The melted fat is gently suctioned from the arms. The heat from the use of the laser will additionally constrict tissue and cauterize bleeding in the area. Skin becomes tighter to achieve a dramatic improvement in the contours of the arm.

You are a good candidate for arm liposuction if you:

Have resistant fat on your arms
Are at a stable weight
Are in good health
Are a non-smoker
Have healthy skin laxity
Have an optimistic but realistic expectation of procedure outcomes

Liposuction and Renuvion

About Liposuction Combined with Renuvion
If you are struggling with reducing particular areas of fat, liposuction surgery may be an excellent solution for you. Liposuction is a popular fat removal technique that was developed in the 1960s. This method uses small incisions to access the fat deposits. A thin tube (called a cannula) topped with an aspirator (a suction device) is used to remove fat and help sculpt your body. This technique has greatly evolved since the sixties. Today, there are many technological improvements that let liposuction reduce your fat in less time with less downtime. Liposuction is a minimally invasive procedure that allows doctors to add additional treatments too. Renuvion is a CO2 laser skin resurfacing device that implements both radio frequency (RF) energy and plasma to produce skin tightening results that helps reduce fat further and enhance muscle definition and skin tautness. The procedure emits RF energy alongside helium to the treatment area. The procedure will keep your skin at a comfortable temperature while improving skin laxity and boosting collagen levels. Collagen is a protein found in the skin that is responsible for keeping skin firm and thick. A boost in this protein will help revitalize your skin and restore a smoother, even texture. Renuvion can be used in combination with liposuction surgery to achieve better results than either treatment can achieve on its own. The combination of Renuvion and liposuction achieves a superior result because it both sculpts the body and tightens skin, resulting in a better shape with improved skin texture and tightness. The use of this technology will reduce blood loss and help shorten recovery time. For truly transforming results, you can combine Renuvion with lipo or apply it to another area to create a comprehensive improvement in your appearance. Renuvion can be used to tighten sagging skin on the neck, abdomen, back, arms, or legs. You can effectively and quickly improve your surgical procedure and results with Renuvion!
Candidates
If you have been exercising but are having a hard time reducing fat along with your abdomen, thighs or flanks, you may consider looking into liposuction. There are many advantages to combining liposuction and Renuvion. The primary benefit is that Renuvion will shorten your recovery period and help improve the quality of your skin. Renuvion is a nonsurgical skin tightening treatment that will enhance your results. Renuvion can improve your surgery as well as enhance your liposuction results. Renuvion can be applied to the treatment area after it has healed to help reduce more fat and improve muscle definition.
Preparation
Prior to your surgery, you will need to obtain medications and any other necessary products for your recovery. You may need to arrange for a friend or family member to drop you off and pick you up from the procedure appointment. On the morning of your appointment, dress comfortably and arrive a few minutes early to ensure you have a peaceful morning. For your best results, follow your doctor's instructions leading up to the surgery date.
Procedure
When you arrive at your procedure, the surgical team will greet you and prepare your treatment area for surgery. They will clean the predetermined area and mark where the incision will be applied. These marks will help guide your doctor through the surgery. Once completed, your predetermined anesthesia will be applied.Once you are comfortable, your doctor will gently apply incisions with the Renuvion device, through which your preferred choice of liposuction will be implemented to reduce the stubborn fat.The overall procedure may vary from two to five hours depending on the area(s) treated.
Recovery & Results
Following the procedure, your treatment area will be swollen and bandaged. A compression garment will help set your new contours. The swelling will decrease in the following days and medication will help control any discomfort. A follow-up appointment will help your doctor monitor your results and make sure you are recovering well. Your results will take a few months to set in and will provide transformational improvements. Once the area is completed, Renuvion can be applied to help restructure the subdermal layers of your skin, reducing more fat and toning your skin. The results achieved with liposuction and Renuvion will be long-lasting and, with a healthy lifestyle, will remain consistent for years!
Cost of Liposuction and Renuvion
The pricing of each liposuction and Renuvion procedure will vary based on the extent of improvement desired. We will customize each treatment to address your concerns and flatter your unique anatomy. For your best skin tightening and slimming procedure, schedule a consultation with us today at (415) 886-0777.

Liposuction Options

Smartlipo
This lipo method will help minimize bruising and swelling for a quick turn-around. SmartLipo is a laser-assisted liposuction procedure that uses laser energy to emulsify fat and restructure the skin. The SmartLipo system's lasers will act similarly to Renuvion's to minimize blood loss and tighten treated skin. SmartLipo allows for strategic fat removal and significant, localized body contouring. A small laser fiber will be inserted into the treatment area, the doctor will use it to effectively target fat cells and emulsify them. The fat will be removed from your body and the remaining tissue will be sculpted to provide natural contours. Show off your results a few days after your treatment!
Vaser Hi-Def Lipo
Vaser Hi-Def Lipo is an ultrasound assisted treatment. VASER stands for Vibration Amplification of Sound Energy at Resonance. Ultrasound waves will target fat cells to delicately dislodge them from surrounding tissues. This procedure is combined with a tumescent fluid to produce an effective, quick procedure that also provides a fast recovery period. Tumescent fluid is made of saline, epinephrine, and an antihistamine. This fluid combination helps to firm and swell the treatment area. The epinephrine will contract blood vessels, helping to reduce blood loss and bruising while the antihistamine works to locally numb the area. When the ultrasound probe is inserted into the treatment area, the sound waves will the air bubbles present in the tumescent fluid. These bubbles will fluctuate, helping to gently dislodge fat cells. Vaser Hi-Def lipo is a minimally-invasive treatment that will quickly sculpt your body without more than a few days of downtime. Using Renuvion with these methods will reduce your recovery period and have you showing off your new curves in no time!

Speak with Marin County's Body Contouring Experts

How long will my procedure be?
How many days should I take off from work?
What is the length of the full recovery period?
Will there be much discomfort following the procedure?
When can I expect my final results?

Thigh Liposuction

About Thigh Liposuction
Liposuction was introduced decades ago to help men and women get rid of stubborn fat. This technology has since been advanced and can now treat areas all over the body such as the arms, back, abdomen, face, thighs, and buttocks. Liposuction can also be used to reduce fat in the male chest (Gynecomastia), helping to contour the area and create a more masculine physique. Thigh liposuction has been growing in popularity. This safe body sculpting technique is a great way to get rid of stubborn fat. Liposuction is an ideal solution for men and women who are active and within a reasonable weight range. Lipo techniques are used to reduce subcutaneous fat. This fat is very stubborn and difficult to get rid of with dieting and exercise. Working out can only do so much. Each person has a set number of fat cells in their body by the time they hit adulthood. These cells will not change in number but will fluctuate in size based on your lifestyle. Thigh liposuction will permanently remove fat cells in your legs to achieve the slender thighs you've always wanted. It's important to take note that liposuction is not a weight loss procedure. Rather, lipoplasty will help contour your legs, removing the fat just below your skin that is so difficult to reduce. Whether you are trying to slim down your inner thighs or debulk stubborn outer thigh fat, we treat areas that are bothersome and recreate a smooth contoured look.
Benefits
Liposuction is not as invasive as many other surgeries because it stays just below the surface of your skin. There is a fair amount of swelling from the procedure, and the body needs time to reabsorb the liquid used to help remove fat cells. Bruising will occur because some blood vessels are affected. You will be able to enjoy a quick recovery and enjoy your results shortly after treatment! The primary advantage of thigh liposuction is the impressive end result.
Candidates
Thigh lipo surgery is a great option for healthy men and women who are tired of not seeing improvement in their legs no matter the workout or diet they are trying. Liposuction will help you achieve an inner thigh gap or slim down saddlebags. In fact, inner thigh liposuction is growing in popularity as women seek to obtain the highly sought-after thigh gap. Liposuction of the inner thigh area is simple, and will impact your whole appearance. Liposuction will help contour your legs and can restore a balanced overall look for your body. The results are impressive and permanent, with maintenance of a healthy diet and exercise program. Please examine the thigh liposuction before and after photos to see the impressive results our surgeons can accomplish.
Personal Consultation
You will have the opportunity to meet one-on-one with our highly accomplished, skilled surgeons for a private consultation. In this consultation, you will be encouraged to voice concerns and ask a lot of questions. Some of our patients find it helpful to write down their questions and bring them to their meeting. Your health will be discussed so that any adjustments can be made. We want you to have a healthy, safe treatment and will take steps to ensure your best treatment is achieved. If thigh liposuction is pursued, we will hand-tailor a treatment plan that takes your body, health, and lifestyle into consideration.
Preparation
We want you to have your best treatment and will set you up for healthy, positive surgery and recovery. You will need to fill prescriptions and arrange for rides to and from your appointment. As for a few days off from work and adjust medications prior to the procedure so you aren't taking anything that will affect the surgery and recovery. The morning of your appointment, take a shower and dress in loose-fitting, comfortable clothes.
Procedure
Liposuction is done on an outpatient basis and often takes between one to two hours. When you arrive, your thighs will be cleaned and marked for surgery. Tumescent fluid and anesthesia will be administered and the surgeon will begin after a few minutes. The preferred method of liposuction will be used and your thighs will be artfully sculpted. Our surgeons have an eye for detail and will work to improve the proportions of your legs and keep them in balance with the rest of your body. Once the ideal aesthetic has been achieved, incisions will be closed and bandaged.
Recovery
Pain medication can be used to control any discomfort. Taking brief walks and elevating your legs should help alleviate the swelling. A compression garment will be needed for a few weeks to control swelling and help your legs take on their new shape. Most patients are able to return to regular activities and work within a few days. Strenuous activities and rigorous workouts can be returned to in a couple of weeks. Everyone will experience a different recovery timeline. It will be important to take your time and make sure to take it easy for the first few weeks after surgery. Please reach out to our office if you have any new questions or concerns, we are here to assist you. Your incisions will be tender and may itch. Be careful of your incisions and do not apply pressure, bump, or scratch them.
Results
Thinner thighs will be noticeable when the swelling subsides. These results will get better as your legs adjust to their new contours. Thigh liposuction reaps long-term results. As with all treatments, we encourage our patients to maintain a healthy lifestyle and practice good skin care. These efforts will help your outcome last years!
Complementary Procedures
Cellulite treatment is the frosting on the cake! After thigh liposuction, you can undergo cellulite treatment to maximize your results. At PSS we are pleased to offer cutting-edge treatments like Cellulaze. Cellulaze uses laser technology to restructure fibrous band under the skin that causes the dimpled skin surface. The fat in the area will be redistributed and collagen levels will be improved to help bring out long-term benefits. Cellulaze will help smooth out dimpled areas and smooth the contours to help take years off the look of your legs.
Liposuction Cost
We often combine fat transfer with Liposuction so the patient can benefit from fat injections to an area of the face that could benefit because of volume loss. Our office team will help create a treatment plan that is best for you, and a cost breakdown will be reviewed in your personal consultation to ensure you know exactly what is included and what your ideal treatment will cost. To learn more about liposuction and how it will give you the more slender thighs you've always wanted, give us a call at (415) 886-0777 to schedule your personal consultation. The cost of your surgery will vary based on the type of liposuction implemented, the amount of fat being removed, and whether an additional treatments are needed.

Types of Liposuction

Tumescent Liposuction
This technique has drastically improved liposuction surgeries. Tumescent fluid is a saline solution that contains epinephrine. Tumescent fluid is administered with local anesthesia. Implementing tumescent fluid will benefit your surgery in several ways. The epinephrine in the solution will work to constrict blood vessels, limiting the amount of blood lost in surgery and shortening your recovery. The saline in the solution will help swell the treatment area, for easier removal of the fat, allowing our surgeons to work with more precision and sculpt your body beautifully. Lastly, the local anesthesia will help cut down costs and help ease your initial recovery. You won't experience the side effects of general anesthesia and will be able to up and around quickly.
VASER Hi-Def
VASER stands for Vibration Amplification of Sound Energy at Resonance and this revolutionary technique uses ultrasound to transform our patient's bodies. Before fat cells are suctioned from the body with a cannula, they will be emulsified with soundwaves. This emulsification process will help us sculpt the body and remove large amounts of fat swiftly. In this surgery, the sound waves will cause the air bubbles present in the tumescent fluid to fluctuate. This rapid change in size will help to gently detach fat cells from surrounding tissues. The result is a less aggressive form of surgery that will cause minimal trauma to the tissues in the treatment area.
SmartLipo
This form of liposuction implements laser technology to allow our surgeons a high level of precision. Laser liposuction is a new treatment to be offered at PSS and is helping our patients achieve attractive, toned thighs. Similar to VASER, SmartLipo will emulsify fat cells which are then quickly removed from the body. In a procedure, a small laser fiber is inserted through a tiny incision. The laser fiber is used to target fatty deposits. The laser will contract your skin and boost collagen levels. Collagen is the scaffold that keeps your skin thick and healthy. Improvements in skin quality will help your outcome be smooth and contoured, perfect for sculpting the thighs! The heat of the laser not only melts stubborn cells, but it will also improve the quality of your skin.

FAQ

Does liposuction work on thighs?
Yes. Liposuction is a great treatment to slim down thighs and gets rid of any stubborn fat. You shouldn't feel embarrassed to wear shorts or skirts. Liposuction will gently contour your thighs and bring about your ideal results. Contact us today to learn more about liposuction!
What is the recovery time for liposuction on thighs?
The recovery time for liposuction on thighs is a few weeks for soreness and bruising to dissipate. The full results of your new shape can be seen at six months. Keep in mind patients recovery does vary, and each person will have a unique recovery period. It is important to take your time and not push yourself. Sleep when you need to and eat when your body is hungry. Relaxing and focusing on your comfort will help your recovery go well.
How dangerous is liposuction?
When performed by a board-certified surgeon, this is not a dangerous procedure. All of our surgeons are board-certified and have been helping patients achieve their ideal bodies with liposuction for a long time. Prior to your surgery, you will attend a consultation in which your health is assessed. Liposuction will not be pursued if the treatment is deemed unhealthy.
Does thigh liposuction get rid of cellulite?
No. Liposuction will get rid of targeted fat deposits but will not get rid of cellulite. We offer other services that can be performed after you have recovered from your liposuction procedure. Our selection of nonsurgical skin-tighening devices can improve the appearance of cellulite over time. It is important to know that a series of treatments is required to attain the best result. Accent Prime and Venus Legacy are energy devices that stimulate the production of collagen through heat and ultrasound waves. These treatments can complement liposuction to give you results you'll be thrilled with.

Mommy Makeover

What is a Mommy Makeover?
Many women manage to lose most of the excess weight they gain during pregnancy only to find that they are left with sagging skin and excess fat in places where they don't want them. Most women once resigned themselves to living with new, less-attractive body shapes after having families. Thanks to state-of-the-art technologies, women now have the option of returning to their pre-pregnancy figure or making it even better than before through Mommy Makeover cosmetic surgery. The Marin County board-certified surgeons at Plastic Surgery Specialists enjoy a reputation as best-in-the-bay providers of this customized procedure, with many years of experience and expertise, to make you feel comfortable and confident. A Mommy Makeover improves the specific areas of the body that are most commonly affected by childbirth. It typically includes Breast Lift or Breast Augmentation, Tummy Tuck, and Liposuction. Women interested in Mommy Makeover surgery, who visit us from Greenbrae, Larkspur, Corte Madera, Mill Valley, Santa Rosa, San Rafael and other surrounding cities appreciate our surgeons' extensive experience and beautiful, natural-looking results.
Best Candidates for a Mommy Makeover
An ideal candidate for a Mommy Makeover has stopped breastfeeding and isn't planning to have additional children. You should be in good health and have support at home to help you through the recovery process. Plastic Surgery Specialists begins working early with Mommy Makeover candidates, educating them about the entire process, and then making themselves available to address questions and concerns throughout recovery. In spite of the light-hearted nature of the name, the Mommy Makeover is real surgery and requires due diligence. Candidates must understand both the tradeoffs and potential risks and be prepared for recovery.
The Procedure
Liposuction is offered to remove any post-pregnancy abdominal fat from between the skin and the underlying muscle. The purpose of the Tummy Tuck is to improve abdominal and mid-torso contours by eliminating excess skin and fat and tightening the abdominal muscle girdle. Because both of these procedures focus on abdominal fat, it may or may not be necessary in every case to perform both. That is one of several decisions to be made between patient and surgeons based on the patient's specific needs and goals. Breast Augmentation is offered as part of the Mommy Makeover procedure as well to improve the shape of deflated breasts with implants. A Breast Lift can raise and reshape sagging breasts and is often combined with implants for an ideal shape. Again, both may or may not be necessary to achieve aesthetic goals.
Recovery
Your recovery depends on the specific procedures performed. If you've had breast augmentation, a tummy tuck, and liposuction, we recommend allowing 2 to 4 weeks for recovery. The surgery itself can take 4 to 6 hours, and in some cases, the patient may opt for an overnight stay at the surgical facility. Plan to have someone help with all activities of daily living for several days after your procedure. Most moms are used to being a caretaker, but it isn't possible to resume this role immediately. We want you to be up and around the day after the surgery and gradually resume normal activities, such as driving, after a week to 10 days. Exercise and other strenuous activities can be gradually resumed 2 to 4 weeks after your surgery. It's important to remember that it can take several months or even a year for residual swelling to disappear entirely and scars to mature.
Cost
The cost of a Mommy Makeover will vary depending on the particular case and the procedures chosen. During the initial consultation, patients will work one-on-one with a physician to create a treatment plan that is tailored to their exact needs. Once a treatment plan has been established, our staff will be able to provide the patient with an accurate Mommy Makeover quote. To obtain a custom quote, please contact Plastic Surgery Specialists today and request a consultation!

Mommy Makeover Procedure Options

Breast Augmentation
Read More at: https://www.psspecialists.com/cosmetic-surgery/breast/breast-augmentation/.
Tummy Tuck
Read More at: https://www.psspecialists.com/cosmetic-surgery/body/tummy-tuck/.
Breast Lift
Read More at: https://www.psspecialists.com/cosmetic-surgery/breast/breast-lift/.
Liposuction
Read More at: https://www.psspecialists.com/cosmetic-surgery/body/liposuction/.

FAQ

What Are The Procedures Commonly Considered In Mommy Makeover Surgery?
Breast implants or breast lift, tummy tuck, and liposuction.The most common breast deformity seen after pregnancy is what we call the deflation effect. This is a result of the expansion and contraction of breast volume during pregnancies. The skin may be stretched, and breast tissue lost, leading to an "empty sac" appearance. In some cases, restoring volume with an implant completely corrects this problem. For others, breast uplift or reduction may be required. For many patients, a breast lift with implants solves the problem of the deflated look, and creates a younger profile.Also, there are changes in abdominal contour after pregnancy. Stretching of the abdominal muscle girdle leads to unnatural protrusion of the lower abdomen, often bordering on a hernia. Stretched skin creates multiple marks or striae and laxity of tissue around the belly button. Finally, there may be a tendency to carry extra weight in the mid-torso especially in the abdomen and hips. This type of body contour surgery is much like sculpting. An artist would not create a perfectly formed breast and match it with an aged or deformed lower torso. Optimum reconstruction, therefore, requires addressing these problems concurrently. As experts in the individual surgeries involved, we can determine which combination of the procedures will achieve the best results.
Can Women Who Don't Have Children Benefit From A Mommy Makeover?
Absolutely. Although the various procedures generally performed during a Mommy Makeover address specific areas of the body impacted by pregnancy and breastfeeding, the same issues often occur as a natural part of aging. By combining cosmetic breast surgery, a tummy tuck, and liposuction, you can have a more youthful shape. A Mommy Makeover isn't only for young moms, either. Some of our patients have referred their moms to us for similar procedures. Many of our older patients did not have the time or financial resources to do something for themselves earlier in life. Facial rejuvenation with or without body contouring is often the primary focus for more mature women.
Is Undergoing A Multi-Procedure Operation Safe?
Patient safety is the most important consideration regarding any surgery. More extensive procedures require more operative time. Although there may not be a significant difference between a 2-hour surgery and a 3-hour surgery, longer procedures can increase risk. By working as a 2-surgeon team with specially trained assistants, we decrease operating time by half. We can safely complete the surgery for patients who are in good overall health.
Do I Need To Be At My Ideal Weight Before Considering Surgery?
The most important thing is to be at a stable weight. Many patients have difficulty reaching their pre-pregnancy weight and feel defeated. If our patient is too heavy for the procedure, we now offer a Health and Wellness program so you can slim down before the surgery. Also, by signing up for the Health and Wellness program you get the benefit of learning life-changing habits and many additional health benefits associated with losing weight. Surgery will get you to your goal, and you will see dramatic results. We support you post-surgery to help you continue your journey to a healthy lifestyle.
My Husband Tells Me I Need To Workout More and My Post-Pregancy Changes Will Go Away. Is This True?
Returning to your pre-pregnancy exercise is essential. It's healthy and can help you lose much of the weight gained during pregnancy. However, there are anatomic changes that no amount of exercise can correct. These are related stretched abdominal muscles and skin. Sagging, deflated breasts are not going to become high and tight with exercise, and an abdominal hernia is not going to repair itself. When spouses understand that these anatomic changes can't be corrected with exercise, they are very supportive of other options. We often joke that if childbearing did to men's bodies what it does to women's, our practice would be mostly male.
How Do I Decide If I Am A Candidate For Mommy Makeover and Who My Doctor Should Be?
In spite of the light-hearted nature of the name, this is real surgery and requires due diligence. You must understand what the tradeoffs and potential risks of your surgery are and be appropriately prepared for recovery. In order to be an expert in this surgery, the surgeon first must be an expert in each of the individual procedures involved. In most cases, this requires a board certified plastic surgeon with years of experience and a focus on this area. Drs Hvistendahl, Dr. Douglas and Poulos have so many hours, and years (45 plus combined years!) of experience in these procedures, you can have ultimate confidence in the outcome. With these more extensive procedures, we bring in a team of surgeons and a supportive staff to reduce time on the table and make surgery the most comfortable and safe procedure possible.

Latest Mommy Makeover Posts From Our Blog

Do I Need a Mommy Makeover?
The term "Mommy Makeover" can mean many things, and in this blog, we are going to break down the term and discuss several different procedures that can be customized to your individual needs.
5 Plastic Surgery Myths: Fact vs. Fiction
The term "Mommy Makeover" can mean many things, and in this blog, we are going to break down the term and discuss several different procedures that can be customized to your individual needs. Read More at: https://www.psspecialists.com/facelift/5-plastic-surgery-myths-fact-vs-fiction/.
Breast Enhancement Options for Mothers
The options available to women who are considering a Mommy Makeover at our Marin County practice can be overwhelming. Nearly all Mommy Makeovers, which combine several procedures into one operation, involve some sort of breast. Read More at: https://www.psspecialists.com/breast-augmentation/breast-enhancement-for-moms/.

SmartLipo

What Is SmartLipo?
SmartLipo is an advanced version of traditional fat reduction methods. This popular procedure uses state of the art technology, making it one of the most effective minimally invasive body contouring procedures on the market today. The advanced procedure uses 3 different lasers to melt deep and superficial fat deposits and tighten skin at the same time. Because the technology uses heat to melt the fat, this procedure minimizing bruising that can occur with traditional liposuction. SmartLipo is best used to target and treat smaller areas of unwanted fat. The procedure is performed by inserting tiny laser fibers into the area of concern through small incisions in the skin. These incisions are very small, leaving minimal scarring which will continue to fade and become imperceptible over time. SmartLipo can be performed under local anesthesia because it is a quick and very comfortable procedure. The recovery stage can be as short as a few days, depending on your body's ability to heal. Here at Plastic Surgery Specialists, we like to use SmartLipo as a minimally invasive alternative to traditional liposuction in Marin County.
Best Candidates for SmartLipo
The best candidates for a SmartLipo procedure are men and women who have small areas of localized excess fat that are not responsive to working out or a healthy diet. To undergo this treatment, it is important that you are in good health, maintain a stable weight, and have realistic expectations of the procedure outcomes. SmartLipo and other body contouring procedures are not a substitute for a healthy diet or exercise but should be used when all weight loss methods have been unsuccessful. The procedure provides the best results for patients who are within 30 lbs of their goal weight, depending on the area of concern. In general, the same standards for liposuction will apply, in that success depends on the elasticity of the surrounding skin and the patient's ability to maintain the area's new contour. We include at least one session with Venus Legacy after your procedure, to stimulate blood flow and healing to the area, create new collagen and tighten skin. If you have a large amount of excess skin, additional procedure(s) may be required to provide your desired results. During your consultation with either Dr. Poulos, Dr. Douglas or Dr. Hvistendahl, you will be given the best treatment recommendations for your particular concerns.
SmartLipo Vs. CoolSculpting
Depending on your particular goals, we offer both minimally invasive and non-invasive fat reducing treatments. If you are looking to avoid surgery completely, we offer patients CoolSculpting, a non-invasive treatment that destroys 20-25% fat cells through freezing. This procedure is performed by placing the CoolSculpting applicator on top of the skin. The technology works by pulling the fat close to the cooling pad through suction, like that of a vacuum. Fat is more sensitive to high and low temperatures which allows the fatty cells to be targeted without causing harm to any of the surrounding tissue. The cells will freeze and die, eventually leaving the body through the natural elimination process. The results of this treatment are not seen immediately; however, as time goes on the results will become more apparent. This non-invasive treatment is a very effective way to reduce fat in multiple areas of the body such as the tummy, chin, arms, bra roll, thighs and knees..In comparison, SmartLipo is our minimally invasive option that uses controlled heating rather than freezing. If you are looking to treat a small to midsized area of the body and want results instantly, SmartLipo is the ideal treatment. You may be unsure which treatment to choose or which one is best for you. There is not one treatment that is better than the other, it simply depends on what you are looking to achieve, your anatomy, and how soon you would like to see results. During your consultation, one of our board-certified doctors will discuss your options and recommend the best treatment option for your particular concerns.
Consultation
During your initial consultation with either Dr. Poulos, Dr. Douglas or Dr. Hvistendahl, you will be asked about your particular concerns and aesthetic goals. The doctor will then review your medical history and medications currently being taken to determine if SmartLipo will be a safe treatment option for you. The doctor will conduct a physical examination to identify your particular concerns and determine your candidacy for this procedure. If they find you to be a good candidate, you and the doctor will work together to build a treatment plan tailored to your exact needs. You will be given an individualized procedure quote, and if deemed fit by the doctor you will have the option to schedule your SmartLipo procedure. Depending on your particular goals, we offer both minimally invasive and non-invasive fat reducing treatments. If you are looking to avoid surgery completely, we offer our patients CoolSculpting, a non-invasive treatment that destroys fat cells through freezing. This procedure is performed by placing the CoolSculpting applicator on top of the skin. The technology works by pulling the fat close to the cooling temperature through suction, like that of a vacuum. Fat is more sensitive to high and low temperatures which allows the fatty cells to be targeted without causing harm to any of the surrounding tissue. The cells will freeze and die, eventually leaving the body through the natural elimination process. The results of this treatment are not instant; however, as time goes on the results will become more apparen
The Procedure
First, the surgeon marks the treatment areas on the patient's skin. Then, the anesthesiologist injects the areas with a local anesthetic and a tumescent solution to minimize bleeding and enhance the emulsification process. Different laser wavelengths are used in the superficial and deep fat layers to emulsify the fat and help tighten the skin. The surgeon uses small surgical tubes called cannulas to suction the fat. Usually, the procedure takes about 1 to 2 hours and patients are discharged shortly after surgery. Our experienced Bay Area team combines an aesthetic perspective, the ability to listen closely to your needs, and the skills to achieve those desires. This combination of talent is a hallmark of a world-class plastic surgery clinic, located in Marin County, CA.
Recovery and Results
After surgery, most patients wear a compression garment for 1 to 3 weeks. SmartLipo usually affords less bruising and a quicker recovery, especially if no general anesthesia is involved. Depending on the size of the treatment area, patients can often return to normal activities or work in just a few days. Results continue to improve for several months as the skin contracts and contours are enhanced. Patients interested in SmartLipo may also consider traditional liposuction, tummy tuck surgery, or a Mommy Makeover. If you are considering SmartLipo or liposuction and live in Sonoma, Napa, Novato, Mill Valley or surrounding areas, please schedule a consultation with Plastic Surgery Specialists today. Contact us at (415) 886-0777.

Treatment Areas

Arms
As we age, our upper arms can begin to sag and look flabby. SmartLipo uses laser technology to remove the fat deposits within the upper arms and create the appearance of a lift without a highly invasive surgical procedure or the scarring that comes with it. If severe skin sagging is a concern, an arm lift can also be performed for dramatically contoured, slimmer arms.
Male Chest
Fat can begin to accumulate in the chest and skin may start to sag. Gynecomastia is a condition that frustrates men who are otherwise fit and trim. This condition occurs for a number of reasons, but reducing male "breasts" is a very satisfying procedure for men who struggle with fat deposits in the chest area. SmartLipo can be used to remove these deposits and provide a more masculine physique. As an added bonus, this treatment also provides skin tightening benefits that will help to reduce skin laxity on the chest.
Abdomen
SmartLipo is a safe and effective alternative to traditional abdominal liposuction. Through the use of laser technology, fat throughout the abdomen is melted and then suctioned, leaving a defined attractive contour. This treatment is especially beneficial if you have mild to moderate midsection skin sagging but do not have enough excess skin to need a tummy tuck.
Back
Back rolls, otherwise known as bra rolls, can be very troublesome and unflattering in clothing. This particular area can be hard to treat through diet and exercise alone; a cosmetic procedure is often needed. SmartLipo can target this problem area in a very effective manner without the need for lengthy surgery.
Flanks
Love handles are a very common place for both women and men to store fat. The fat in this region can seem impossible to remove through diet and exercise alone. With SmartLipo, you can trim and contour your waist in no time.

Smartlipo FAQs

Can the Fat Come Back After Smartlipo?
Yes, although perhaps not to the treated area. We recommend that patients stay close to their preoperative weight for best results. Weight loss can sometimes enhance the result of Smartlipo, however.
What Determines the Success of The Procedure?
Other than the artistic skill of your surgeon, the most important factor is the elasticity of the skin. If we remove fat, the surrounding skin must be able to contract or loose skin will be a tradeoff for the smaller volume. Your surgeon will discuss your anatomy and the expected results.
What Areas of The Body Can Be Treated with Smartlipo?
The most common treatment areas are discussed in detail above. However, this treatment can also be used to treat small fat deposits are the central neck and jowls, localized areas of the tummy where there is not a lot of skin laxity, hip rolls, and arms, as well as localized deposits on the inner or outer thighs.
Are There Any Procedures that Can Speed up The Recovery Process?
Post-surgery treatments with the Venus Legacy™ device, available in our practice, can in many cases speed the recovery process. Additionally, Venus Legacy tightens the skin and stimulates collagen to improve and laxity.

Skin Renuvion

Renuvion is used in two ways; as a resurfacing technique for the face and other areas
that have skin damage, and subcutaneously (under the skin) to tighten beneath the skin, usually in conjunction with a Liposuction procedure. Renuvion offers real benefits during Liposuction to tighten skin when fat is removed, preventing the look of lax or loose skin after surgery. The results are remarkable and reproducible. Plastic Surgery Specialists is the first practice in the North Bay to offer Renuvion treatment.

Skin Renewal Inside and Out

Renuvion for the face:
Topically applied, Renuvion causes deep resurfacing of the facial skin which treats significant wrinkles, laxity and dyschromia. The typical recovery after this treatment is a minimum of 2 weeks.
Renuvion for the body:
This is a subdermal procedure. Doctors use this novel technology to apply energy beneath the skin, causing a contraction effect that's gentle on tissue. The effect of the treatment may continue to improve over time and doctors often report that the contraction effect is noticeable immediately after the procedure. This can be done alone or in combination with liposuction for fat reduction. Subdermal application of Renuvion is useful for skin laxity of the abdomen, back, arms, legs and neck.

Deep Resurfacing for Real Results

Demonstrated Efficacy
J-Plasma energy has been shown to be safe and effective in numerous surgical procedures where precise delivery of energy coupled with minimal thermal spread to adjacent tissue is beneficial. In cosmetic procedures, this allows for controlled coagulation of tissue.
Surgical Impact with Minimally-Invasive Procedures
Offering a long-awaited alternative to more invasive procedures, Renuvion provides dramatic results with lower risk and recovery time than more invasive surgery.

Tummy Tuck

What is a Tummy Tuck?
Are you frustrated with your shape when you stand sideways in the mirror? Sucking in your mid-section not working to achieve a flat tummy? And situps are not helping, no matter how many you do? An over-stretched muscle wall, often after pregnancy, is not possible to tighten with your core workout. The abdominal wall muscles need to be stitched and placed back into normal anatomic alignment. The stretched-out skin needs to be surgically removed and tightened. Enter the Tummy Tuck! Plastic Surgery Specialists offers a deep and broad base of experience in all aspects of body contouring, and our practice is known for our expertise and consistently excellent results with the Tummy Tuck procedure. This procedure is often combined with Liposuction and Breast Augmentation for a true Mommy Makeover. OK Marin Moms – are you ready to get back to your pre-baby shape with a customized Mommy Makeover at PSS? We pride ourselves in offering the most cutting edge treatment for our patients, which is why we are excited to offer a drain-free option for our tummy tuck procedures. During an abdominoplasty, excess skin and fat are removed to create a smoother, firmer stomach area. After surgery, fluid can build up between tissue layers, causing a delay in the healing process. Drains are typically placed postoperatively as a means of preventing this fluid accumulation. By using TissuGlu® Surgical Adhesive in our tummy tucks, we can remove the need for burdensome drains and the stress they can cause during recovery. Additionally, we offer a new pain management injection called Exparel that provides pain relief for up to 3 days, so that there is less need for other pain medications and their subsequent side effects. The Tummy Tuck has evolved over the years to become one of the most popular and successful plastic surgery procedures available today. PSS surgeons performed this procedure countless times and avail patients of every option to maximize safety and comfort. Our experienced team of surgeons combine an aesthetic perspective, the ability to listen closely to your needs, and the skills to achieve those desires. This combination of talent is a hallmark of a world-class plastic surgery clinic, located in Marin County, CA.
Best Candidates
Candidates for a Tummy Tuck should be healthy and reasonably fit. Men and women seeking Tummy Tucks after a significant weight loss should be committed to keeping the weight off in order to produce the best results. If you are interested in a drain-free tummy tuck with TissuGlu®, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our surgeons to determine if a drain-free procedure is right for you.
Consultation
At Plastic Surgery Specialists, we will describe to you in detail the entire process of the Tummy Tuck, as well as how to care for yourself after the procedure. Steps to take and medications to avoid during the weeks leading up to your surgery will be explained as well. In order to give you the best results possible, you should explain all areas you may wish to enhance or improve. One of our accredited PSS surgeons will complete a full examination to assess what the best options will be for you. Questions and concerns will be happily address during your consultation. Our goal at Plastic Surgery Specialists is to make you feel as comfortable as possible throughout your entire procedure process, from the first phone call to your last postoperative visit.
Recovery
The length of recovery time varies from patient to patient. Body type, age, and how your specific body reacts to surgery are all determining factors. For all patients, it is important to get enough rest so your body can fully heal, giving you the best results. Our staff at PSS will give you a recovery schedule to ensure your healing process is as quick and smooth as possible.For more information on how the Tummy Tuck is performed, please visit our 3D Education Center.
A note about TissuGlu
TissuGlu® patients experience a better quality of life during recovery compared to drains. A clinical study proved that patients who used TissuGlu returned to a normal work schedule approximately 3 days sooner than those with drains. Although you might feel eager to resume heavy activity following your tummy tuck with TissuGlu, please remember you just had a major surgery and your body will need time to heal. Be sure to carefully follow your surgeon's recovery instructions.

Procedures

Mini Tummy Tuck
During a Mini Tummy Tuck, an incision is made above the pubic line; the skin and fat layers that lie above the abdominal wall are then separated and lifted to expose the abdominal muscles of the lower abdomen. The skin is then pulled back down and the excess is removed. The skin above the belly button is not tightened nor is the umbilicus reconstructed. The upper abdominal muscles are not tightened. It may result in a shorter scar but your anatomy will determine if it is an option for you.
Full Tummy Tuck
The Full Tummy Tuck works with the abdomen above the navel as well as below. This requires creating a second incision around the belly button, so that when the skin and muscles are tightened a new belly button will be created. The Tummy Tuck procedure is often combined with other procedures. Women may wish to include Breast Augmentation or breast lift as part of a Mommy Makeover.
High-Tension Tummy Tuck
If you desire the "corset" look, a High-Tension Tummy Tuck can accomplish this. Much like the Mini and Full Tummy Tuck, this procedure tightens the muscles vertically and removes excess skin. The muscles are then tightened horizontally as well. The high-tension horizontal tightening cinches the waist, creating a more defined, contoured waistline.
Male Tummy Tuck
When a male gets a Tummy Tuck he undergoes the High-Tension Tummy Tuck, but the horizontal tightening is much less than women would receive. The muscles are not pulled together, only tightened.

Alternatives

Liposuction
Liposuction removes fat that lies between the skin and the muscle by means of suctioning. This is geared more towards patients who have specific pockets of fat that have not diminished through diet or exercise. This procedure is not meant to solve extensive weight issues. In order to be a candidate for Liposuction, patients must have reasonable skin elasticity to allow retraction or else skin excision is still necessary.
SmartLipo
Smartlipo is a minimally invasive technique that decreases body fat through the use of 3 different lasers. This process melts away fat deposits and tightens skin with little bruising and zero scarring. Candidates for SmartLipo should have ideal skin elasticity. Recovery time for this procedure is a little as a few short days for the ideal candidate.
Vaser Lipo
Much like SmartLipo, Vaser Lipo is a procedure where the fat is melted by ultrasound prior to its removal. This process does not affect nerves or blood vessels. This procedure lessens the amount of bruising or any discomfort. Quick recovery is possible for the ideal candidate. This is the most popular alternative procedure performed at Plastic Surgery Specialists.
Body Lift
Body Lift is ideal for patients who have lost a substantial amount of weight and have a large excess amount of skin. This procedure is much like a Tummy Tuck, but it additionally tends to the surrounding areas of the abdomen including the back, thighs, and buttock. This process involves both the removal of fat and tightening of the skin. Some patients who receive Body Contouring may opt to include other procedures such as breast surgery or an Arm Lift.

FAQs

Can scars resulting from a C-section or Hysterectomy be corrected during a Tummy Tuck?
Yes. Indented, widened, or raised C-section or hysterectomy scars are very common. The scar itself can easily be corrected at the time of the Tummy Tuck.
Is a Tummy Tuck scar visible?
An incision is required to remove loose abdominal skin. In most cases, incisions are made where the resulting scar is hidden in the bikini area of the body. It can take up to 2 years for the scar to fade and shrink.
Can I go home after a Tummy Tuck?
Most patients can safely return home within hours after surgery if they have adequate home care. If you do not, we will gladly make arrangements for you at home or at an overnight facility.
Can other procedures be combined with a Tummy Tuck?
Yes. Almost all Abdominoplasty procedures benefit from Liposuction at the same time, often including hips or thighs. Additionally, many women who have had children want cosmetic breast surgery. This combination of procedures is commonly referred to as a Mommy Makeover.
What is the main risk or trade off of a Tummy Tuck?
An incision is required to remove the loose abdominal skin, resulting in a scar. In most cases, the scar will be minimally visible and can be hidden in the bikini area of the body. Full maturation (fading size and color of the scar) can take up to 2 years. Temporary healing problems such as swelling, firmness, numbness, fluid collection, or drainage are usually short lived. Due to the fact that the abdominal muscles usually need to be tightened, there may be a period of abdominal cramping or tightness, which may limit normal activities.
What determines how long the scar will be?
The skin's condition is the most important factor. In most cases, all of the skin between the belly button and pubic area is removed. The belly button is reconstructed at a new position and the surgery results in dramatic changes to the abdomen's contour. If loose skin is limited to the lower abdomen, there is a smaller excision with a minimal scar. However, loose skin on the lower back and tummy requires what's called a Circumferential Abdominoplasty, or Body Lift. Again, the scar is hidden within the bikini area, but the tissue on the waist, back, and even buttocks can be tightened at the same time if desired.

Vaser Hi-Def LipoSculpture

What is Vaser Hi-Def LipoSculpture?
Vaser Hi-Def LipoSculpture is liposuction that suctions out localized fat deposits from various parts of the body. The differentiating factor between Vaser Lipo and traditional Liposuction is the preliminary step taken to break down the fat: ultrasound frequencies. The acronym Vaser stands for Vibration Amplification of Sound Energy at Resonance. The vibrations emitted cause expansion and contraction of air bubbles located in tumescent fluid which is ejected from the Vaser Lipo instrument. These air bubbles collapse and safely break up adipose tissue. Adipose tissue consists of fat, nerves, blood vessels and connective tissue. Through this process, the fat is separated from the nerves and blood vessels, allowing the separated fat cells to be suctioned with ease and leaving surrounding tissue intact and undisturbed.
Am I A Candidate for Vaser Hi-Def Lipo?
The ideal candidates for Vaser Hi-Def Lipo are men and women who have decent muscle tone, but struggle with fat deposits that do not respond to diet or exercise. You should be in good health, close to your ideal weight, and a non-smoker. It is necessary to have realistic expectations of what this procedure can accomplish. Vaser Lipo is meant to contour and sculpt small problem areas. It is not meant to act as a substitute for a healthy lifestyle. Exercising and eating well should be continued as an extended part of the procedure to ensure long lasting results.
Consultation
During a private consultation with one of our board certified plastic surgeons, you will explain concerns you have with specific fat deposits on your body. You should also make mention of any medical conditions or past procedures you've undergone. Your surgeon will complete an examination to assess your specific case and see if Vaser Hi-Def LipoSculpture can benefit you. If deemed a good candidate, a personalized procedure plan will be drawn up to give you optimal results. You will be shown before & after pictures of patients with similar body types and treatment areas to give you an idea of possible results. Results do vary between patients, but this will help you gain an idea of your potential outcome. Your surgeon will go over the entire Vaser Hi-Def LipoSculpture process in detail so you are fully aware of each step.
Preparing for Vaser Hi-Def Lipo
At your private consultation your surgeon will give you preparation tasks to complete. Your surgeon may prescribe you medications to take prior to your procedure, and make mention of any routine medications you are currently taking as he might adjust your intake. Cease smoking and drinking alcohol 3 weeks before your procedure.Avoid anti-inflammatory medications and herbal supplements for this time period as well as these increase the amount of bleeding. You should drink plenty of water the weeks leading up to your procedure. You will need a friend or family member to drive you home from your procedure. And if you feel the slightest bit under the weather before your procedure date, please inform the office immediately.
Procedure Information
Depending on how many areas you are having treated, a Vaser Lipo session can vary widely in the time needed and size of treatment area. Most of the time stitches are not needed, but if required, scarring is minimal and fades overtime. Because of this, people feel more comfortable undergoing a Vaser Lipo treatment on areas of the body that are typically exposed, like the arms and legs. The treatment areas will be marked by your surgeon, and a tiny incision is made for the entrance of the thin hollow tube, or cannula. Tumescent fluid is then injected to separate the fat cells from the structural tissue. The ultrasound frequencies cause the separation and liquefaction of the fat cells, and they are then suctioned out with ease. During this process, the skin will retract and smooth the treatment area. The sensation associated with Vaser Hi-Def LipoSculpture has been equated to slight pressure. After the procedure your skin may be slightly pink and feel warm, but this will go away in a few hours. The treatment areas may be a bit sore; this is normal and will subside with time. Most patients are able to go to work and return to normal activities within a few weeks, but this depends on the extent of your procedure. Although a rarity, there are some potential side effects associated with Vaser Lipo, just like any other procedure. These may include swelling, some discomfort, infection (if treatment areas are not well taken care of during recovery), and blood clots (if patients do not ambulate often enough.) These will be discussed openly and in detail during your consultation so you are made fully aware of all aspects of this procedure and what it entails. At PSS we encourage an open line of communication, so please share any concerns or questions you may have; we will gladly address them all. If you are interested in this state-of-the-art body sculpting technique, please schedule a consultation and we can assess if you are a good candidate for Vaser Hi-Def LipoSculpture.
How to Maintain Lasting Results
It is important to de-stress, as stress causes blood pressure to rise, hindering blood flow to the treatment areas. Strenuous activities should be avoided for a couple weeks up to a month. Results are theoretically permanent since the fat cells in the treatment areas are destroyed. Adult fat cells do not regrow; however, neighboring fat cells do have the ability to expand. Working out and eating well is crucial to maintaining lasting results; keeping the surrounding fat cells minimized will keep Vaser Lipo results visible for years. Drink a lot of water post-op to help in healing and reduce swelling. You will finally be able to look in the mirror without the feeling of frustration; maintain a healthy lifestyle and your newly sculpted body will stay sculpted for years to come.
Cost
The cost of your Vaser Lipo procedure will depend on the extent of your individual case and the amount of areas treated. The cost will vary if you opt to receive additional procedures in conjunction with Vaser Lipo. You can receive a more accurate quote during a consultation at Plastic Surgery Specialists.

Traditional Lipo vs. Vaser Hi-Def Lipo

Traditional Lipo

Removes fat by manually pulling and tearing it from the skin
Blood loss is a risk associated with traditional Lipo
Rippling of the skin can occur from the harsh removal of fat from the skin
Need several days to a week of downtime for recovery
Bruising is often apparent
Large incision

Vaser Hi-Def Lipo

Removes fat with more easily through the use of ultrasound technology
According to the Aesthetic Surgery Journal Study, blood loss is 7 ½ times less with Vaser Lipo as opposed to traditional Lipo
There is no rippling effect and skin is actually smoothed by the process due to the advanced laser technology stimulating skin elasticity
Similar to traditional Liposuction, but less destruction of tissue due to ultrasound
Typically less bruising than traditional lipo
Tiny incision

Benefits of Vaser Hi-Def Lipo

Vaser Lipo's advanced technology allows for the ultrasound frequency to differentiate between fat cells and surrounding tissue
Meaning no damage to nerves or blood vessels.
Gives athletic-like muscle tone and definition to the treated areas
Fat taken from one area can be used to augment other areas, including breast, pectoral area, and face
Vaser Lipo can be used on most of the body
Cutting edge technology allows for precision and artful craft to carefully sculpt the treated areas
The numerous shaping tools allows for treatments to be individualized to each patient's specific desires
Quickly see the results of body contouring through revealed definition and smoothed skin
Most patients only need one treatment

Areas that Can Be Treated

Neck
Arms
Axilla
Breasts
Chest
Abdomen
Back
Waist
Hips/Flanks
Thighs
Knees
Calves
Ankles

Breast

Nipple Correction

The Benefits of Nipple Correction
Inverted nipples can cause. Discomfort; Insecurity; Difficulty breastfeeding; Avoidance of intimacy
Conversely, the benefits of nipple correction surgery include
A relaxed feel; Better fitting clothes; A flattering look; Increased confidence
By boosting your confidence, nipple correction surgery can also lower your inhibitions.
When you shed your insecurities, it may free you up to connect with others on a more intimate level.
To experience the many benefits of nipple correction for yourself, please contact Plastic Surgery Specialists in Greenbrae, California.
Candidates for Nipple Correction
Ideal candidates for corrective surgery include healthy individuals residing in or visiting the Bay Area. If you want to reverse an inverted or malformed nipple, then you could be eligible for a transformative procedure at Plastic Surgery Specialists. If you are a young mother who has had difficulty breastfeeding in the past, you may also benefit from nipple correction. Plastic Surgery Specialists (PSS) can liberate your milk ducts, increasing your ability to nurse your next child. Please tell your PSS representative if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant in the near future. We can determine if nipple correction is right for you and coordinate our efforts with your biological clock. Nipple correction surgery is also a viable option for men. Guys who have inverted or malformed nipples can solve a problem that may have bothered them since childhood. Put your insecurities in the past and let Plastic Surgery Specialists improve your future!
Personal Consultation in the Bay Area
Plastic Surgery Specialists is a proud member of the greater San Francisco community. Our blog is a nerve center of information and communication. We relish the opportunity to convey our expertise to you, and now we would love to hear your feedback. Schedule an individualized consultation at our Greenbrae office and let us know how we can bring your ideal self to life. Please be prepared to discuss your medical history so that we can make informed decisions about the best strategies for you. The knowledgeable, friendly staff at Plastic Surgery Specialists will assess your needs, listen to your goals, and answer any questions you may have along the way. To get a glimpse of our past patients' overwhelming levels of satisfaction, please read our rave reviews. We are humbled by their kind words and we are eager to provide you with the same world-class service.
Preparation for Nipple Correction
You are unique, so the preparation for your procedure will be tailored to your needs. During your consultation period, Plastic Surgery Specialists will provide you with detailed instructions to prepare you for the specifics of your upcoming surgery. These directions will be based on your health records and cosmetic goals. Preparation for Nipple Correction You should quit smoking at least two weeks before any surgical procedure. Tobacco products restrict your circulation and general wellbeing. You may also be advised to stop taking aspirin and certain supplements that affect blood flow. We want you to be able to enjoy your aesthetic journey, so we ask that you closely follow the preparation instructions provided by your Plastic Surgery Specialists team.
Recovering from Nipple Correction
Rest is essential to recovery. Before your procedure, create a place to relax in your home so you are prepared to rest once you return from surgery. You may be advised to sleep at an incline and avoid pressing anything against your chest. To promote optimal circulation, consider gentle walks around the neighborhood in the days following your procedure. Avoid strenuous activity during the recuperation period. Please wear loose bras and/or shirts for two weeks after your surgery. Allow the nipples to find their natural, new shape without irritating them.
Remarkable Results
You will immediately notice the first wave of benefits from your nipple correction procedure. As the swelling subsides, your aesthetic improvements will appear. Over the next six weeks, the full results of your nipple correction surgery will continue to take shape. As your underlying tissue heals, your nipple protrusion can flourish, unhindered.
Cost of Nipple Correction in the Bay Area
Plastic Surgery Specialists provides the best care at a fair price. We often run specials to help you afford the appearance you have always desired. If you need help with financing, we are eager to accommodate your budget. For any questions or concerns you may have about nipple correction surgery pricing, please call (415) 886-0777 and one of our attentive staff members will be happy to assist you.

The Nipple Correction Procedure

Parachute Flap Method
Plastic Surgery Specialists may be able to preserve your milk ducts' functionality by simply stretching the fibers pulling back at your nipple. Once the muscles are sufficiently relaxed, the nipple should protrude naturally. Your surgeon will then suture along the base of the nipple to give it sustained support. The parachute flap technique has little to no impact on the breastfeeding process. The only potential drawback to this method is that it may not be permanent. The ducts may invert, effectively reversing the benefits of your nipple correction procedure.
Detached Duct Method
If lactation is not an important factor in your decision process, then Plastic Surgery Specialists can detach the milk ducts responsible for pulling back your nipples. This technique will fully release the nipple from the muscles that invert it. The detached duct method is long-lasting; there is almost no chance that your nipple will become inverted once the ducts are divided. As your surgeon concludes the procedure, he or she will carefully affix your newly protruded nipple back in place.
Special Situations
When a nipple is inverted to an extreme degree, the telescope method may be necessary.[1] Your surgeon will make a small incision around the perimeter of the nipple and gently draw the tissue outward. This process is akin to extending the lens of a telescope, hence the name. The surgeon will manually protrude the nipple and then tighten it around the base. The specific nature of your procedure will depend on your desired outcome and unique anatomy. Plastic Surgery Specialists may opt to craft dermal flaps to "prop up" a nipple.[2] By creating two small triangles of skin, your surgeon presses these down to the base of your nipple, pushing it up with the support of your own tissue. These triangular flaps may come from your areola or beneath the surface of the skin, leaving virtually no scar.[3]

FAQ

Is nipple correction safe?
Yes, Plastic Surgery Specialists prioritize your safety and wellbeing. We will administer anesthesia to facilitate your comfort and care throughout the nipple correction surgery. Our surgeons are board-certified and well-versed in the cosmetic techniques you require to bring your goals to life.
How long is a nipple correction surgery?
Procedures may vary, but most nipple corrections have a duration of 30-120 minutes. The amazing results, however, may last for years or even decades.

References

1
Shiau, J., Chin, C., Lin, M., Hsiao, C. (2011). Correction of Severely Inverted Nipple with Telescope Method. Innovative Techniques. 35(6)1137–1142. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00266-011-9739-3
2
Kim, DY., Jeong, EC., Eo, SR., Kim, KS., Lee, SY., Cho, BH. (2003). Correction of Inverted Nipple: An Alternative Method Using Two Triangular Areolar Dermal Flaps. Annals of Plastic Surgery. 51(6)636-640. doi: 10.1097/01.sap.0000095722.82954.82
3
Min, K., Park, S., Heo, C., Minn, K. (2010). Scar-Free Technique for Inverted-Nipple Correction. Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. 34(1)116–119. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00266-009-9436-7

Procedures We Offer

Breast Augmentation
This is a highly individualized procedure whereby breast implants are used to increase breast volume or and change the shape of the breasts. The VECTRA® 3D imaging system we use allows patients to explore options — not on models but on their own image — to achieve specific results. New technologies, including injections with your own body fat, mean smaller and less conspicuous incisions and faster recovery times.
Breast Lift
This procedure lifts breasts into a more youthful position and reshapes the breast tissue without increasing the breast size. As with breast augmentation, our 3D imaging ensures that lifting and reshaping is specific to each patient's needs. Breast lift results are long-lasting for patients who maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid significant weight fluctuations.
Breast Reduction
By removing fat, glandular tissue, and skin, our surgeons create smaller, firmer, and lighter breasts. Not only does breast reduction provide the opportunity for patients to have breasts that are in proportion to their overall body size, it can also eliminate neck and back pain and other problems associated with overly large breasts.
Implant Revision
Correcting complications associated with breast implants can mean removing, repositioning, or replacing existing implants. Many revision patients simply want to exchange their older implants and have experienced no complications.
Male Breast Reduction
Our surgeons specialize in male breast reduction surgery to treat gynecomastia, the abnormal overdevelopment of mammary glands in men. Whether due to heredity or a medical condition, gynecomastia can undermine self-esteem. The male breast reduction procedure, which removes excess fatty tissue and tightens skin, is an appropriate and increasingly popular treatment.

Breast Augmentation

What is Breast Augmentation?
The goal of breast augmentation is to enhance and improve breast contours. Breast augmentation at Plastic Surgery Specialists in Marin County is highly individualized to complement your unique body type and augmentation goals. Our specialists bring to the procedure the artistry required to help you choose the right size and shape implants for your body. Plastic Surgery Specialists was one of the first practices to offer Allergan Natrelle® 410 and Sientra® breast implants in Marin County. Also known as "gummy bear" implants, these implants feature a teardrop shape and form-stable cohesive silicone gel. Dr. Poulos, Dr. Douglas and Dr. Hvistendahl are proud to offer the latest options for patients seeking beautiful, natural-looking breasts at our center of excellence.
Good Breast Augmentation Candidates
Healthy women wishing to enhance the size and shape of their breasts are potential candidates for breast augmentation. The procedure is ideal for women who have lost breast volume due to pregnancy or weight loss. Candidates should be healthy enough to have surgery and understand that there is always a risk of complications that could require additional surgery in the future, potentially to remove or replace implants in a revisionary procedure. Candidates for natural breast augmentation using their own fat rather than implants should understand that this process, while carrying lower risk, is generally best for women who want a more subtle change. Fat transfer is not recommended if the patient is looking for a more dramatic change in breast size.
Consultation
You will be able to ask any questions and voice concerns about breast augmentation surgery, and explore all the different options offered by Plastic Surgery Specialists to achieve the full, voluptuous breasts you've been dreaming about. Dr. Poulos, Dr. Douglas and Dr. Hvistendahl will be happy to discuss the specifics of cost for your individualized surgery and will describe exactly what you can expect from your results and the procedure itself. In order to discuss the details of your desired breast augmentation procedure, call to schedule a consultation visit with Dr. Poulos, Dr. Douglas or Dr. Hvistendahl at our Marin County facility.
Before Your Procedure
In preparation for a breast augmentation surgery, Dr. Poulos, Dr. Douglas or Dr. Hvistendahl will outline which particular steps you need to take to ensure your own safety and a beautiful outcome. This may include undergoing a medical examination, altering any medications, (including ibuprofen and aspirin) or supplements you may be taking, and avoiding smoking. You will also need to make arrangements in advance for the recovery period so that you can rest, and heal completely after the operation.
The Procedure
Traditional breast augmentation is a relatively simple plastic surgery procedure with only a few steps. It does, however, call for preparation. First, it is important to decide which breast implants are right for you. There are 3 main types of breast implants: saline, silicone, and gummy bear. After choosing your breast implant, you and your surgeon can determine the best incision placement for you. Choices include inframammary, transaxillary, or periareolar incisions. Each incision type is made in an inconspicuous area that can be easily hidden. During the procedure, your surgeon inserts your implant through the incision and closes it with sutures. Natural breast augmentation collects fat for the augmentation from your body via liposuction. This procedure offers the added benefit of improving contours in the area of the body (stomach, hips, or thighs) from which the fat is removed. The fat cells are enriched and then injected into the breasts. This procedure takes longer, but many appreciate the natural look and feel that results, as well as the slimming effects of liposuction.
After Breast Augmentation
At our Marin County surgical center, breast augmentation using implants usually requires general anesthesia and takes 1 to 2 hours to complete. After you go home, you'll need to take it easy for a few days. Most patients can return to work or non-vigorous activities in 3-4 days. You can see results of both implants and fat transfer right away. Costs can vary for each individual, but we are proud to offer affordable plastic surgery for all our patients from Greenbrae, Larkspur, Corte Madera, Mill Valley, Santa Rosa, San Rafael, and other nearby communities. For more information on how breast augmentation is performed, please visit our Education Center. You can also learn about common complementary procedures, including breast lift and Mommy Makeover surgeries.
Cost
In the San Francisco Bay area, breast augmentation costs vary based on a number of factors. Due to the highly customizable nature of breast augmentation procedures, the price range can be very wide. This will be based on whether you choose implantation or fat transfer, as well as the results you are looking for and other such surgical aspects. During your consultation, you will have the opportunity to discuss cost factors with our patient coordinator and get a quote for the cost of your procedure. Keep in mind financing options are readily available to make your dream come true. Plastic Surgery Specialists is known for their fair pricing and affordability while providing the highest standard of care, which is why they continue to be the premier practice in the North Bay.

What Implants Should I Get?

VECTRA® 3D imaging ensures:
Clear Expectations are achieved using a 3D image of the patient's body and 3D models of saline and gel implants. Accurate measurements of the breasts are recorded, helping your surgeon choose the appropriate implants for your body.
Composition
Plastic Surgery Specialists offers silicone, saline, and gummy bear implants. Saline implants are filled with a sterile saline solution after the shell is inserted into the breast. Silicone implants are a semi-solid mass made of silicone gel that mimics the natural feel of a breast. Gummy bear implants are also made of silicone, but the composition is thicker than a traditional silicone implant, much like the consistency of a gummy bear.
Size
There is a very wide range of implant sizes patients are able to choose from, ranging from 100cc to 900cc. Once again, Plastic Surgery Specialists offers breast augmentation patients the advantage of our state-of-the-art VECTRA® 3D imaging system, which allows women to see images of how they will look with implants even before they decide to have the surgery.
Shape
Women have the ability to choose whether they would like their implants to be round or tear drop shaped, which will change the appearance of the breasts. Round implants offer a full, pronounced bust while tear drop implants offer a more subtle enhancement as they mimic the natural slope of a breast.

FAQs

What size implant should I have?
Choosing the size of implants is probably the most personal choice you'll make when considering breast augmentation. At the same time, our surgeons' expertise and experience is a valuable asset in helping guide your choice. Choosing an implant suitable for your tissue characteristics is the most important factor. A patient with paper-thin skin and no soft tissue coverage cannot tolerate the same sized implants as someone with a C-cup breast and elastic skin. We'll discuss your preferred cup size and explain how it's converted to an implant volume. Before-and-after pictures of real patients are a great way to narrow your choices and help us understand your expectations. We'll take the time to help you choose what is right for you.
What's the best way to see what I would look like with breast implants?
Our Greenbrae clinic is one of the few practices to offer the VECTRA® 3D imaging system, which allows patients to preview what their breasts may look like with implants of different shapes and sizes. This can be even more helpful than traditional implant sizers, which only give you an idea of size, rather than what your actual breasts will look like.
Do you offer natural breast augmentation?
Some women want to enhance their breast size without breast implants. Those patients can benefit from fat transfer breast augmentation, a procedure which involves taking fat tissue from one area of your body, purifying and enriching it, and then re-injecting it into your breasts. We use liposuction to harvest the fat, which is also an attractive feature of natural breast augmentation for many patients. Suitable candidates for fat transfer breast augmentation desire only a modest increase in breast size — not more than 1 cup size.
Are there potential problems after getting breast implants?
Every elective surgical and non-surgical procedure carries some risk. The most common issue with breast implants is the tendency of the body to form scar tissue around the implant. We call this scar tissue a capsule, and the thickening process a capsular contracture. Research shows that modern implants remain soft in more than 90% of women who get breast augmentation. Even those who develop some capsular contracture do not require revision surgery in most cases. However, somewhere around 3 to 5% of patients will develop significant firmness. The vast majority of these can be corrected by secondary operation, which removes the scar tissue and replaces the implants.
Is there any relationship between implants and breast cancer?
With extremely rare exceptions, there is no relationship between implants and cancer. Rarely, a leaking silicone implant can result in a lump which could be confused for breast mass. That being said 1 out of every 8-9 women may develop breast cancer in her lifetime.Studies have shown that patients who developed breast cancer with implants usually present at an earlier stage because they are used to frequent examinations and mammograms.

Breast Lift

What is a Breast Lift?
A breast lift, or mastopexy, lifts and reshapes sagging breasts for a perkier, more youthful appearance. It's common for breasts to sag or droop as the result of pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, aging, or heredity. Breast lift surgery does not enhance the size of the breasts, but rather it lifts and reshapes them. A breast lift is often performed in conjunction with breast augmentation or a Mommy Makeover to further enhance results. Dr. Poulos, Dr. Douglas and Dr. Hvistendahl offer the latest surgical techniques to restore their patients' breasts and their confidence. Discover why patients visit our center of excellence for breast lift surgery from San Francisco, Napa, Santa Rosa, and beyond. We invite you to request a consultation online, or call us at (415) 886-0777 to schedule an appointment.
Consultation
During your private consultation with one of our breast lift specialists, Dr. Poulos, Dr. Douglas or Dr. Hvistendahl, you will have the opportunity to share your aesthetic dislikes with the positioning of your breasts. The doctor will then perform a detailed examination to determine which breast lift technique is best for you and your desired outcome. He will explain each technique in full detail so you are able to make an informed decision with your surgeon's guidance. Questions are highly encouraged; an open line of communication between patient and surgeon is key to providing and receiving optimal results. Pricing quotes will be given at this time, as well as preoperative and postoperative instructions.
Preparation
Complete specific medical tests and evaluations assigned by your surgeon. Refrain from smoking, drinking alcohol, and taking anti-inflammatory medications 3 weeks prior to your procedure. Pick up all prescriptions so you have them readily available. Arrange postoperative transportation since you cannot drive yourself. We recommend having this person stay overnight with you to help with your first night of recovery. Individual instructions may be given for your specific case.
The Procedure
Mastopexy surgery is performed under general anesthesia on an outpatient basis. Depending on the extent of your specific case and whether you opt to undergo additional procedures, mastopexy takes approximately 2 to 3 hours. During a mastopexy, our surgeons remove excess skin and tighten remaining skin, improving the overall shape of the breasts and lifting them into a more youthful position. Minor, moderate, and severe sagging each require corresponding lifting methods. The Periareolar Lift and Circumareolar Lift are minimally invasive and require only small incisions above or around the areola respectively. The Vertical Lift is slightly more invasive and requires an incision that extends around the top of the areola and down the breast midline. The Anchor technique requires an anchor-shaped incision around the top of the areola and across the lower portion of the breast. While more invasive, the Anchor technique has the greatest lift potential.
Recovery
After your procedure is complete, your surgeon applies dressings and bandages to the incision sites. You will wear a support bra to minimize swelling by preventing fluid buildup and to support your breasts as they heal. A small, thin tube may be necessary to drain any excess blood or fluid collecting after the procedure. Bandages and any tubing can be removed after a couple of days. Stitches may stay in place for a week or 2. For further details on how breast lift surgery is performed, please visit our Education Center. You can also learn about common complementary procedures, including breast augmentation, breast reduction, and Mommy Makeover surgeries. Although you may feel well enough to return to work after a week, you should avoid strenuous activity for 3 or 4 weeks. You will be able to see the results of your breast lift procedure within a few months following surgery. Your breasts will look and feel youthful again. Incision scars will fade over time, usually in about a year. Mastopexy results can be long-lasting for those who watch their weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Cost
The cost of your breast lift varies with the specifics of each individual's procedure. Factors include whether you are combining your breast lift with any other procedures, which surgical techniques are used, and so on. Our team will discuss a detailed plan and quote with you during your consultation. We are also happy to provide health care financing options that help all our patients meet their cosmetic goals on their terms.

Good Candidates

Grade 1 – Mild ptosis:
The areola is at the level of the inframammary fold (natural crease of the breast) but breast tissue still hangs below.
Grade 2 – Moderate ptosis:
The areola is below the inframammary fold but is above the lowest point of the breast.
Grade 3 – Severe ptosis:
The areola is below the inframammary fold and is either at the lowest point of the breast or points down towards the ground.
Pseudoptosis
The areola is at or above the inframammary fold, but the lower portion of the breast sits below the fold.

Breast Lift Techniques

Periareolar Lift
The Periareolar Lift is a technique used for women who only have minimal sagging to address. Your surgeon will make a half-circle incision around the top of your areola to lift the breast. This technique leaves the least amount of scarring since it utilizes the smallest incision of the 4 techniques and it naturally blends in with the border between the breast and the areola. Typically, this incision is used when the lift is paired with breast augmentation.
Circumareolar Lift
The Circumareolar Lift, otherwise known as the Donut Lift, utilizes a circular incision around the entire border of the areola. This too is designed for women with minimal sagging, but in addition to lifting the breast, this technique gives the surgeon the opportunity to reduce the size of the areola as well. The Circumareolar Lift can be paired with breast augmentation or breast reduction if you desire more aesthetic change.
Vertical Lift
The Vertical Lift is also referred to as the Lollipop Lift since the incision used is much like the shape of a lollipop. The first incision is made around the circumference of the areola, followed by an incision that runs from the base of the areola to the base of the breast. This technique provides a more substantial lift than the 2 aforementioned techniques. The additional incision allows your surgeon to remove more skin and tissue, reshaping the breasts to appear more lifted and perky.
Anchor Lift
The Anchor Lift is designed specifically for women with significant sagging. This technique utilizes 3 incision; the first and second incision are the same as the Vertical Lift, but an additional third incision is made along the natural crease of the breast. The anchor pattern allows your surgeon to remove even more tissue and skin as necessary, lifting your breasts to a more youthful position. This technique will leave the most scarring, but they will fade overtime with consistent care and are easily covered with a bikini top.

FAQs

How do I know if I need a breast lift or augmentation?
A breast lift addresses sagging only and not size, so is best for women who are happy with the size of their breasts. A breast augmentation increases the size of the breasts and does not correct sagging. Many women, particularly those who have had children or lost a lot of weight, find that they can benefit from both procedures. Our surgeons have many years of experience combining these 2 approaches into a single procedure that both lifts and enlarges the breasts.
Will I have noticeable scars?
No matter which incision your surgeon uses, he employs precise techniques to keep your scar as small and fine as possible. We provide you with detailed aftercare instructions to ensure that your incisions heal quickly and beautifully, and we can also recommend products and services to help fade your scars. The vast majority of our patients say that within a year, their scars have faded to the point of being nearly invisible.
How long will my results last?
The results of a breast lift can last many years. Of course, aging does cause our skin to become more lax over time, and no procedure can completely halt that process. However, you can maintain your results for decades if you don't change weight significantly.
Will I still be able to breastfeed after a breast lift?
Although we can use an incision that bypasses the ducts and glands involved in breast-feeding, we usually recommend that our patients finish having children before undergoing a breast lift because the changes of pregnancy may affect the cosmetic results. We are happy to discuss your family plans with you during your consultation, and work out a timeline that meets all your goals.

Latest Breast Lift Posts From Our Blog

Insider Tips on Breast Surgery
Read More at: https://www.psspecialists.com/breast-augmentation/insider-tips-on-breast-surgery/.

Breast Reduction

Good Candidates
You may be a good candidate for breast reduction if you have breasts that are disproportionately large for your body (or one breast that is noticeably larger than the other), causing hunching, neck and back pain, or skin irritation either in the form of rashes beneath the breasts or indentations on the shoulders from bra straps. If the size and weight of your breasts is restricting your physical activity, contac one of our specialists in Marin County for a breast reduction consultation. After an examination, our doctors will determine if breast reduction surgery is safe and appropriate for you and your health. If you are over 40 or have a family history of breast cancer, your surgeon will discuss with you the need for a mammogram prior to breast surgery at Plastic Surgery Specialists. Because breast reduction surgery is often necessary to maintain good health, some insurance companies cover the procedure. Our staff can work with you to determine whether you qualify.
The Procedure
Breast reduction techniques vary depending on the size and shape of the breasts. Common methods include an inverted T-shaped incision, a vertical incision, a free nipple graft, and liposuction. One of our surgeons makes incisions along pre-marked lines and removes excess skin. The nipples and areolas remain attached to their blood and nerve supply but are generally raised into a more youthful position. We use dissolvable internal sutures to help maintain the breast shape and reduce tension on the skin during healing.
After Your Procedure
Breast reduction surgery requires general anesthesia and usually takes between 2 and 5 hours. Surgical drain tubes may be needed, along with dressings and an elastic bandage or surgical bra. Swelling subsides over time. Patients can manage any pain with medications. Drains and bandages can be removed a day or 2 after the procedure, with external sutures removed in 1 to 2 weeks. Heavy lifting should be avoided for about a month. Breast reduction provides patients with the opportunity not only to improve their health and appearance but to participate more fully in life. For more information on breast reduction, please visit our Education Center. You can also learn about common complementary procedures, including breast lift surgery and breast reduction for men.

FAQs

Will my insurance cover a breast reduction operation?
Insurance companies vary greatly in their willingness to pay for breast reduction surgery, as it does cross over into the field of aesthetic surgery. Some carriers require removal of a certain volume of tissue, and some require weight loss, physical therapy, and so on prior to authorizing an operation. We will be happy to write a letter to your insurance carrier on your behalf. Our patient coordinator will discuss with you our standard fees and to what degree your insurance reimbursement may offset them.
Does breast reduction usually alleviate back and neck pain?
In nearly all cases, breast reduction provides significant relief of physical and emotional discomfort. Most patients find that they are able to undertake many physical activities they were previously unable to consider, such as jogging. Our patients also tell us that they enjoy buying smaller bras and more fitted clothing after their breast reduction.
Do you have to remove the nipple to uplift the breast?
In the majority of cases, the nipple remains attached to the underlying breast tissue and is simply reshaped, while the skin is appropriately contoured. Rarely, for patients with very large breasts, removal and replacement of the nipple as a free graft may be the best and safest procedure.
What size will I be after the operation?
As with breast augmentation, there are various sizes that may be appropriate for each individual. In general, we wish to reshape the breast to a size that is in harmony with the rest of your body. Some patients go dramatically smaller, while others choose a more modest reduction. It is important that you communicate your goals to your surgeon.
How long will the surgery take and what is the recovery like?
Most Breast Reductions require about 3 hours of surgery. Today, most patients are able to leave the surgical facility and return home after the procedure. Recovery usually requires approximately a week before returning to most normal activities and 2-3 weeks before beginning vigorous exercise.
Is it possible to have a tummy tuck or liposuction at the same time?
Yes, many patients we see are interested in consultation due to our expertise in Mommy Makeover surgery. In this procedure, we often address a combination of breast, abdomen, and body concerns that have resulted from pregnancy. In any case, reducing and uplifting the breasts can make a protruding abdomen seem out of proportion. Our goal is to achieve a good body contour with good proportions. Our surgeons often work together in the operating room, which can reduce surgery time and allow for these procedures to be done in a very safe and controlled environment.
Is it possible to do a reduction with liposuction only?
Liposuction, especially ultrasonic liposuction, is certainly a useful tool in some breast reductions. However, it is unusual to perform breast reduction with liposuction alone as the breast usually needs to be lifted to some degree at the same time.

Latest Breast Reduction Posts From Our Blog

Insider Tips on Breast Surgery
Read More at: https://www.psspecialists.com/breast-augmentation/insider-tips-on-breast-surgery/.

Breast Implant Revision

Good Candidates
Candidates for breast revision should bring records indicating their previous breast implant history so that our specialists will know what kind of implants were used and how long ago. As with other patients desiring surgery, they should also be prepared to discuss their medical history generally to be sure they are healthy enough for breast revision surgery. Many breast implant revision candidates have experienced capsular contracture over time, in which scar tissue hardens around their implants in the months or years after their original breast augmentation elsewhere. Others have simply had their implants for many years and are interested in "upgrading" to newer implants, particularly the latest generation of silicone implants known as "gummy bear" implants, which look and feel very natural.
The Procedure
Breast implant revision is a highly individualized procedure. If enough time has passed and pregnancy, weight gain or loss, aging, or other issues have caused your breasts to sag in addition any other implant concerns, our specialists may recommend a breast lift at the same time. If the implant position has shifted, internal sutures may be needed. Because of the number of variables affecting this procedure, it is not possible to determine how many incisions will be needed until the patient consults with our surgeons. For surgeries addressing capsular contracture, it may be possible to work in the area of the original incision scar. More complicated revision cases may require incisions around the areola or vertically from under the areola and following the curve of the breast.
After Your Procedure
During a breast augmentation revision in our Marin County surgery center, we use either local or general anesthesia depending on the complexity of the problems. Likewise, the time each surgery takes depends on the nature of the problem. If a breast lift is included, the revision may take 3 to 4 hours. If implants are merely being changed or removed, it should take less time. Your surgeon can provide a more accurate timetable once he has assessed your specific needs. It generally takes a week to 10 days to be able to return to normal activities following breast revision, although it will take longer before you can resume lifting and more strenuous activity.

FAQs

What are common complications that would require revision?
Aside from capsular contracture, described above, other common complications include rippling (when an implant's edge causes a visible ripple in the skin), and malposition (when the implants are too high, too low, too wide or too close, often due to a problem with the implant pocket). The risk of these complications increases the longer a person has implants, which is why many of our revision patients have had their implants for at least a decade. Our specialists have many years of experience with a wide range of complications and use only the safest techniques during revision surgery.
What are my options after surgery?
You can either remove or replace your implants during revision surgery. Removing them generally involves using surgical techniques such as lifting to reshape the breast tissue and ensure a good cosmetic result. If you'd like to replace your implants, as many of our patients do, your surgery and recovery will be similar to your initial breast augmentation procedure.
What kind of implants can I get?
We offer a range of the most popular options. Plastic Surgery Specialists was one of the first practices to offer Allergan Natrelle® 410 and Sientra® silicone breast implants in Marin County. Many patients who got saline breast implants in years past now frequently elect to trade them in for silicone implants, which have a very natural look and feel. We can recommend a style that fulfills all your cosmetic goals.
How much does revision surgery cost?
Because these procedures are highly customizable, the cost varies widely from person to person. Factors to consider include whether you need new implants or whether other surgical techniques are involved. Our team will outline a detailed plan and quote for you during your consultation, and we offer financing to help fit this procedure into your budget.
What is breast revision surgery?
Initial surgery, especially with implants does not always yield an optimal result. Capsular contracture, implant malposition, or asymmetries may cause an unsatisfactory result. In the vast majority of cases. These problems can be corrected often with a simpler surgery than the original. Capsulectomy is surgery to remove the scar tissue, which may have formed around an implant. Capsulorrhaphy is placement of stitches inside the implant pocket to change the breast shape. Change of the implant may or may not be required.

Latest Breast Implant Revision Posts From Our Blog

Good to Great: Breast Implant Revision
Read More at: https://www.psspecialists.com/breast-augmentation/good-to-great-breast-implant-revision/.

Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation

About Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation
A fat transfer breast augmentation is a more natural alternative to traditional breast augmentation with implants. The procedure uses liposuction to first harvest fat from the patient's body. The fat is typically harvested from 2-3 locations on the body where the patients has excess fat deposits. Some of the most common locations where the fat is harvested from include the arms, back, abdomen, flanks, buttocks, and thighs. However, this may vary depending on the patient's individual case. Then, the fat is purified and enriched to be injected into the patient's breasts. This fat will then take to the new area where it is injected, giving the patient long lasting, natural looking and feeling results.
Good Candidates
Good candidates for a fat transfer breast augmentation are healthy women who wish to augment their breasts without implants. Patients must however only want to increase the size of their bust by one or two cup sizes. If a patient needs to address drooping breasts, or want a more dramatic result, implants or a breast lift may be a more appropriate solution. In order to be considered for fat transfer breast augmentation, patients need enough fat deposits on their body for the fat transfer. Since some of the fat cells will not "take" the doctor has to harvest more than enough fat to be able to account for some cell die-off. Slimmer patients may not be good candidates and may want to consider implants instead. In general, patients should be in good health. This means that they should be nonsmokers and at a stable weight. While patients with slimmer builds may not be good candidates, patients who are obese will not be good candidates either. Patients should already be at or close to their ideal weight. Significant weight fluctuations can affect a patient's results. The best way to find out if you are a candidate for a fat transfer breast augmentation is by meeting with a board certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Poulos, Dr. Douglas or Dr. Hvistendahl. The doctors at Plastic Surgery Specialists will be more than happy to work with you to determine the best procedure to help you achieve your desired results. Contact our Marin County offices today to get started!
Recovery
Following surgery, the liposuction and injection sites will be properly bandaged. The patient will also be outfitted with a surgical bra to help the breasts settle into their final position. They will be able to return home following surgery. However, since they will have received anesthesia, they should make prior arrangements for another adult to drive them home from surgery. They should also make sure that there is another adult with them at home the first night after surgery. Patients should take at least 3-5 days off from work in order to allow their body to properly recover. During this time and for up to three weeks, patients may experience some bruising, bleeding, and discomfort. Patients will be provided with medication to help alleviate any discomfort. Breast augmentation fat transfer patients should plan on coming into our Marin County offices for follow-up examinations at predetermined increments following their procedure.
Results
Not all of the fat cells from the procedure will survive in their newly grafted position. For this reason, the doctors will slightly over-graft the area to make sure that the patient enjoys their final results. Patients will be able to enjoy their final results at approximately the six month mark. Over the course of three to six months, the fat cells will take to the new location. The cells that do not survive will be naturally processed out of the body. In some cases, the patient may require a second fat transfer procedure in order to attain their desired results. Our doctors will schedule follow-up appointments in order to check in with the patient personally and make sure that they are satisfied with their results.
Consultation
At the time of the consultation, the patient will meet personally with one of our board certified plastic surgeons, Dr. Poulos, Dr. Douglas or Dr. Hvistendahl. The doctor will ask the patient about their concerns, why they are interested in a fat transfer breast augmentation, and what they hope to achieve from the procedure. He will also ask the patient about their medical history, any medications they take, and surgeries they've had in the past. Then, Dr. Poulos, Dr. Douglas or Dr. Hvistendahl will conduct a thorough examination to determine whether or not the patient would be a good candidate for a fat transfer breast augmentation. At this time, they will determine if the patient has adequate fat deposits to perform the procedure and meet the patient's goals. Depending on the doctor's findings, they may determine that the patient is better suited for breast implants. In some cases, they may recommend a combination or both implants and fat transfer. After the examination, our staff will be able to provide the patient with an accurate price estimate for the procedure. In order to get started and find out whether or not you would benefit from a fat transfer breast augmentation, please contact our office in Marin County and request a consultation.

Fat Transfer vs. Implants

Saline Implants
Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water so if a saline implant ruptures, it will immediately be visible. This means that patients do not have to worry about silent ruptures or undergoing routine, and costly, MRI scans. However, there is a tradeoff for the safety and security that saline implants provide. Many women find that saline implants do not look or feel as natural as silicone implants. The sterile water that they are filled with does not resemble natural breast tissue.
Silicone Implants
Most women agree that gel-filled silicone implants more closely resemble natural breast tissue. Many years of study have shown no relationship between silicone and autoimmune diseases previously felt to be associated with these implants. Today the majority of implants that are placed are silicone.
Fat Transfer
A fat transfer breast technique solves both of the main problems posed by implants. Since a fat transfer breast augmentation uses fatty tissue from the patient's own body, it will look and feel natural – because it is! This technique makes it extremely safe, though there is a very small chance of infection with any procedure. Rupturing or capsular contraction is a non-issue. Since the fat comes from the patient's own body, there is no chance of the body rejecting the tissue as foreign matter, leading to adverse reactions. Furthermore, there is no need for MRI scans.

Benefits of Fat Transfer Breast Augmentation

Looks and feels natural
No risk of rupture or capsular contracture
No chance of allergic reaction
No prominent scarring
Long lasting results
No need for maintenance, including implant replacement or MRI scans

Procedure

Liposuction
The first step in a fat transfer breast augmentation procedure is to perform liposuction to harvest fat for the injections. Liposuction can be performed anywhere where the patient has excess fat deposits. Some common places where liposuction is performed include the arms, back, abdomen, flanks, and thighs. The doctors will typically perform liposuction on 2-3 locations on the body.
Purification
Prior to being injected, the fat harvested during liposuction needs to be cleaned and purified. Using a centrifuge, the most pure and viable fat will be separated from other components. This will help ensure that the maximum amount of fat possible will survive in the new location.
Injection
Dr. Poulos, Dr. Douglas or Dr. Hvistendahl will then inject the fat into the breasts using special syringes. The fat will be grafted at varying depths and in even increments. Not only does this technique ensure that the most possible fat will survive in the new location, but it also ensures that the breasts acquire a round, proportionate aesthetic. Once the appropriate amount of fat has been injected into the breasts for augmentation, the patient will be taken to a recovery room where they will wake up from anesthesia surrounded by our knowledgeable and attentive staff.

Gynecomastia for Men

What is Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia occurs when the breast tissue in boys and men swells as a result of reduced levels of testosterone and higher levels of estrogen. Over 200,000 cases are reported annually in the U.S., and the fluctuations can be caused by exposure to new medications, puberty, age, and other health issues relating to the body's hormonal balance. Our board-certified surgeons perform male breast reduction surgery to treat gynecomastia at Plastic Surgery Specialists in Marin County. The procedure removes excess fatty tissue and tightens the skin. Gynecomastia is a purely aesthetic concern that usually begins during puberty, although it sometimes occurs in adults who suffer certain medical conditions. It can be embarrassing and stressful for boys and men, who may develop low self-confidence in their bodies.
Pseudogynecomastia vs. Gynecomastia
Gynecomastia occurs when a shift in hormones cause the breast tissue to undergo an excessive amount of growth. In the case of pseudogynecomastia, however, the growth of fat is the underlying issue. Although a small distinction, the underlying cause difference calls for different treatment methods. During a patient consultation Dr. Poulos, Dr. Douglas or Dr. Hvistendahl will conduct an exam of the area to determine whether it is gynecomastia or pseudogynecomastia, which will then dictate the kind of treatment recommended.
What Can Cause Gynecomastia?
Gynecomastia is caused when male hormones like testosterone are lowered, while levels of female hormones such as estrogen rise. This change causes increased growth in the patient's breast tissue, resulting in an appearance similar to female breasts. Though an individual's endocrine system usually regulates hormone levels in the body, a disturbance in the system can lead to higher levels of estrogen and androgens, particularly during puberty. Many cases of gynecomastia in adolescent boys – between the ages of 10 and 13 – resolve themselves in less than two years without patients having to turn to surgical intervention. However, teenagers can be deeply psychologically affected by the condition, and if they are healthy and no longer growing, may still be good candidates for surgery. In adult patients, heightened levels of estrogen and androgens can be caused by a multitude of factors, including a lack of proper nutrition, new medications that may impact the endocrine system, or chronic disease like kidney failure or cystic fibrosis. In some rare cases it may also be brought about through genetic factors.
How to Get Rid of Gynecomastia (Male Breast Reduction Surgery)
Dr. Poulos, Dr. Douglas and Dr. Hvistendahl specialize in male breast reduction surgery as a treatment for gynecomastia. There are various surgical options including mastectomy (either subcutaneous or with the help of liposuction), laser liposuction, and laser lipolysis. Depending on the severity, different surgical solutions are recommended. More pronounced cases an operation to reduce enlarged male breasts will involve the removal of the glandular tissue affected by hormonal imbalance. Many instances can be addressed with liposuction alone; ultrasonic lipo like VASER Hi Def Lipo can be extremely effective in such cases. However, patients often prefer to take additional measures to improve the breast's appearance, like repositioning the nipple, removing excess skin, and tightening the muscle below for a more sculpted look.
Good Candidates
Potential candidates for surgery to correct gynecomastia are healthy teenage boys (once they have stopped growing) or men who feel their condition is impacting their self-esteem. Patients should be old enough to be certain that their condition is not temporary, as is often the case with younger men who still have "baby fat." Men should be at a stable weight that is within the normal range for their height and build. Good skin elasticity is also helpful.
Consultation
Before deciding whether male breast reduction surgery is the right option for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Poulos, Dr. Douglas or Dr. Hvistendahl to determine which is the correct route. After an exam the doctor will be able to give recommendations as to which surgical procedure, if any, will be most effective for your particular circumstances, as well as discuss any health risks, concerns, alternatives, and costs. You and he will decide on the best course of action together, and a custom tailored preparation, procedure, and recovery plan will be created for you. Be aware that a proper assessment of medical needs by Dr. Poulos, Dr. Douglas or Dr. Hvistendahl requires honesty on the part of the patient. Based on the exam the doctor may require that you receive further evaluation before deciding to undergo a surgical procedure.
Preparing for Your Male Breast Reduction Surgery
After your evaluation with Dr. Poulos, Dr. Douglas or Dr. Hvistendahl, it is possible you will be asked to alter your current medications if they may impact the operation. It is also important that you avoid smoking and anti-inflammatory painkillers like aspirin and ibuprofen, as these thin the blood and may cause higher risk of bleeding during surgery. Certain health supplements and vitamins that may increase risks can also be eliminated; these may include vitamin E or any multi-vitamins containing it, fish oil and Omega 3 supplements. Specifics can be discussed in detail with the doctor during your consultation.
The Procedure
We perform male breast reduction surgery at our state-of-the-art surgical center. The procedure combines fat removal, tissue reduction, and muscle and skin tightening. The surgery is customized for each patient, and in some cases Dr. Poulos, Dr. Douglas or Dr. Hvistendahl may use liposuction to remove excess fat from the breast area. Once the fat is removed, underlying muscle is tightened along with the breast skin to achieve a more sculptured appearance. In some cases it also may be necessary to remove excess skin to get optimal results. In other cases, the size of the areolas — the dark skin surrounding nipples — may need to be reduced, too.
After Your Procedure
Gynecomastia surgery requires general anesthesia and is typically completed within two to four hours. Surgical drain tubes may be needed, along with dressings and an elastic bandage. Swelling gradually subsides and discomfort is managed with pain relief medications. We remove drains and bandages within two days after surgery and external sutures in one to two weeks. Patients should avoid vigorous exercise for a few more weeks, especially exercise of the pectoral muscles. Oftentimes patients are given a compression bandage to help reduce swelling and facilitate healing in the area; these can be worn for several weeks after the procedure.
Cost
The cost of male breast reduction surgery to treat gynecomastia will also be discussed during your consultation with Dr. Poulos, Dr. Douglas or Dr. Hvistendahl as the total will depend on your circumstances and specific procedure. Each treatment is customized to the patient's condition and aesthetic preferences; whether additional steps like skin removal and areola reduction are taken will dictate the total cost of surgery.

FAQs

Is gynecomastia dangerous to my health?
Gynecomastia is not harmful, nor is it painful. However, it is possible that the buildup of excessive breast tissue could be a symptom of a more serious health issue. Dr. Poulos, Dr. Douglas or Dr. Hvistendahl can let you know during a consultation visit whether they recommend further evaluation; gynecomastia itself does not pose a threat to your health.
Can my excessive breast tissue be removed with liposuction alone?
In most cases, gynecomastia can be significantly improved, if not eliminated, with liposuction alone, especially with the use of ultrasonic liposuction (VASER Hi Def Lipo.) The breast can be adequately contoured with this technique. It does require some skin elasticity so it can retract once the excessive tissue is removed. A small incision near the nipple may be required to remove more fibrous breast tissue. If there is significant sagging of the skin or breast size similar to a female breast, it may be necessary to reposition the nipple to achieve the best contour. This could result in additional scarring.
Will my excess breast tissue recur?
In most cases correction of this problem is permanent and natural male contours can be achieved.
How long does the surgery take and what is recovery like?
Surgery varies from 1 to 2 hours. It usually takes 3 or 4 days until normal activities can be resumed. Vigorous activities are OK within 1 to 2 weeks. Bruising in the first few days is a common side effect.
What are the possible problems associated with male breast reduction?
Slight skin irregularities can occur following liposuction or excision for gynecomastia. If there is a significant amount of fibrous breast tissue, an incision could be required in order to remove it. Temporary numbness or hypersensitivity of the breast can occur but usually resolves within weeks.

Latest Male Breast Reduction Posts From Our Blog

5 Plastic Surgery Myths: Fact vs. Fiction
Read More at: https://www.psspecialists.com/facelift/5-plastic-surgery-myths-fact-vs-fiction/.
4 Plastic Surgery Procedures for Men
Read More at: https://www.psspecialists.com/coolsculpting/four-plastic-surgery-procedures-for-men/.
Sculpting Custom Results for Men With Gynecomastia
Read More at: https://www.psspecialists.com/liposuction/sculpting-custom-results-for-men-with-gynecomastia/.

Face

Procedures We Offer

Facelift
A facelift is an advanced surgical procedure that lifts and repositions the skin and underlying muscle and tissue. Our specialists use techniques that get natural-looking results without a "windswept" look.
QuickLift
Ideal for busy men and women who aren't ready for a traditional facelift, a QuickLift is a modified facial rejuvenation procedure that targets sagging skin on the middle and lower portions of the face.
Brow Lift
Also called a forehead lift, this procedure is an excellent option for men and women whose sagging brows give them an angry, sad, or tired appearance. It is sometimes combined with eyelid surgery to complete the rejuvenation.
Neck Lift
An aging neck is one of the most common cosmetic concerns of our patients. A neck lift can help improve your profile by tightening the skin and muscles that begin to sag as we age.
Eyelid Surgery
Blepharoplasty, commonly called eyelid surgery, is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries performed in the nation. It can be done on either the upper or lower eyelids, or both, to give you a more alert and refreshed appearance.
Rhinoplasty
Often called a nose job, rhinoplasty can change the shape or size of your nose, resulting in a more harmonious overall appearance. Patients who have trouble breathing through their noses are also candidates for what's called functional rhinoplasty.
Chin and Cheek Implants
Patients who desire an enhanced profile or higher cheekbones can benefit from implants. An implant is often the choice for men who want a "strong" chin. Implants give your face a striking, contoured appearance that many people find attractive.
Ear Reshaping
Ears that stick out from your head can draw attention away from an otherwise pleasing appearance. Cosmetic ear surgery, called otoplasty, is an option to correct misshaped ears. It can be performed on either children or adults.
Dermal Fillers
Restylane® and JUVÉDERM® products are popular dermal fillers that can help turn back the clock by reducing wrinkles and giving your face a more youthful appearance. Filler injections are a good option for patients who are just beginning to notice signs of aging and aren't ready for cosmetic surgery.
Juvéderm Voluma™ XC
VOLUMA XC is the first filler approved by the FDA to restore volume to the cheeks; it is among the most popular non-surgical procedures at our practice. It's a long-lasting treatment for patients whose cheeks have a sunken appearance.

Facelift

What Is a Facelift?
A Facelift, known clinically as Rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure designed to improve the look of your face and neck by lifting the skin and repositioning the underlying tissue and muscle that support it. A facelift procedure is often combined with surgery to refresh the eye area (Blepharoplasty). The facelift procedure has come a long way since the "wind tunnel" look, and the experts at Plastic Surgery Specialists are known for their beautiful and natural-looking results. Old techniques addressed sagging by repositioning and tightening only the skin; the foundation of muscle beneath the skin must be repositioned for a longer-lasting, more natural look. Jowls and lax skin under the chin is tightened and truly transform the look of the neck, which can be a telltale indicator of age. A good facelift is one where the question "How does she look so rested?" is asked, and the patient can give a smile and satisfied wink.
What does a 360 degree facelift mean?
It means addressing all aspects of a youthful loIt means addressing all aspects of a youthful looking face. When you decide to refresh your look in a big way, we start with six weeks of preparation. Why? Our surgeons understand how facial surgery starts with the look of the skin. With their years of experience, they've developed a truly thorough, in-depth approach to facial rejuvenation. Six weeks prior to your procedure, you begin a skincare regimen to improve the texture, hydration and pigmentation of the skin. This preparation becomes a foundation to build upon. Next, we combine the facelift surgical procedure with a deep resurfacing to further improve the skin and eliminate fine lines and wrinkles. oking face. When you decide to refresh your look in a big way, we start with six weeks of preparation. Why? Our surgeons understand how facial surgery starts with the look of the skin. With their vast experience, they've developed a truly thorough, in-depth approach to facial rejuvenation. Six weeks prior to your procedure, you begin a skincare regimen to improve the texture, hydration and pigmentation of the skin. This preparation becomes a foundation to build upon. Next, we combine the facelift surgical procedure with a deep resurfacing to further improve the skin and eliminate fine lines and wrinkles. A great example of how critical this step is: consider the area around your mouth. With age, you can develop "smokers lines" around the lips, and a facelift can't improve that area. Untreated, the lip lines will look incongruous with a younger looking face. Our 360 degree approach addresses wrinkles around the mouth along with its surrounding features. The last step as you recover is to offer excellent post-operative care and include products to heal the resurfaced skin quickly and comfortably. In addition, we offer magnet treatments to reduce swelling, improve healing and hasten recovery. A great example of how critical this step becomes is to consider the area around your mouth; with aging you can develop "smokers lines" around the lips, and a facelift can't improve that area. Untreated the lips lines will look incongruous with a younger looking face. The last step as you recover is to offer excellent post-operative care and include products to heal the resurfaced skin quickly and comfortably. In addition, we offer magnet treatments to reduce swelling, improve and hasten healing.
Why Should You Get a Facelift?
If you've lead a healthy life and taken care of your skin with sunscreen, congratulations. None of us, however, escape aging. The startling fact about facial structure is fat and bone loss occur as we age and reduce by as much as 30% the underlying structure of the face by the time you reach your 50s. Volume loss contributes to the appearance of skin laxity and a sunken eyes and cheeks.
Best Candidates
Healthy men and women experiencing sagging skin and jowling are the best candidates for a facelift. Weight should be stable and overall health is checked by our doctors to ensure your safety. A QuickLift is appropriate for those with less severe signs of aging. Facelift surgery is probably the most individualized procedure we offer, because each face is unique and aging appears in different ways depending on a number of factors. To see if you are an ideal candidate for a facelift, schedule a consultation to have a private, one-on-one conversation with one of our board-certified surgeons.
Private Consultation in the Bay Area
At the time of your private consultation, you will speak with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons about your most bothersome areas and your goals. The doctor will thoroughly examine your face and neck, testing skin texture, observing facial contours and outlining best techniques to address your wishes. You will be given a list of preliminary steps to take and tasks to complete prior to your surgery, as well as an explanation of how to care for yourself after your procedure. Any questions or concerns regarding your facelift procedure process will be answered at this time. All pricing inquiries will also be addressed. To get a glimpse of the innovative, compassionate care you will receive from PSS, please visit our blog. Remember to bring photos of your younger self so that the doctor has additional visual information about your aging process for best results.
Healthy Recovery
Each patient is provided with a personalized recovery plan. Typically after a Facelift, it will take about three weeks to return to your normal activities. You will begin to see the results as soon as the swelling and bruising go down. Elevating the face and using ice packs will help reduce swelling. Avoiding anti-inflammatory medications for a specific amount of time determined by your doctor will help alleviate bruising and reduce the risk of bleeding after surgery. Plastic Surgery Specialists uses our Venus radio frequency technology to speed recovery and help dissipate bruising after your procedure. We offer Alastin and SkinMedica products specifically designed to be used post-operatively with skin resurfacing procedures.
Amazing Results
You greet the world with your face every minute of every day. You want that greeting to speak volumes about your attitude and outlook. To enjoy smoother contours, sleeker dimensions, and an overall more youthful appearance, contact Plastic Surgery Specialists. One look at our rave reviews proves how committed we are to patient satisfaction.

Facelift Procedures

Traditional Facelift
Over the years there have been many iterations of the basic facelift surgery. Early procedures focused on tightening the skin by removing excess skin and, although still a part of the modern a Facelift, a more natural-looking technique now focuses on resuspension or repositioning of the superficial muscle layers of the face with its attached subcutaneous fat. The goal of all modern procedures is to create greater lower face definition and upper facial fullness by repositioning the soft tissue layers to its original position. The Traditional Facelift involves a thin incision made from the temples, down in front of the ears, and up behind following the back of the ear until arching over and tapering off in the hairline. If the procedure includes a necklift, the dissection is carried into the neck to allow excess skin to be removed and the neck contour tightened and smoothed. A Facelift can include fat grafting, reshaping underlying muscles, redraping the skin, and removal of excess skin. At Plastic Surgery Specialists, we specialize in facelift procedures and are confident we will give you a youthful, vibrant appearance with tightened, smoother skin and fewer wrinkles.
QuickLift™
The QuickLift™ is a Facelift procedure using a less invasive surgical technique, resulting in less downtime and a quicker return to your usual activities. It is vital to have an in-depth discussion with your PSS surgeon, who can outline the risks and benefits and develop a treatment plan that is customized to your individual features, cosmetic goals, budget, and lifestyle. Everyone's face ages differently and there are many factors to consider; health habits, including smoking have a deleterious effect on the skin and sun damage will speed collagen breakdown and accelerate the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. The underlying facial structure is taken into account, including the amount of fat and bone loss acquired over time. Talking to an experienced plastic surgeon is key to getting thorough answers. The QuickLift involves tightening of the skin on of the face and neck using a minimally invasive technique. With a special suturing technique, small incisions are made along the sideburn and behind the ear, resulting in keeping any minimal scarring.Facial implants for the cheeks or chin can be inserted at the same time as this procedure and add favorably to the final result when recommended by your surgeon.
Neck Lift
Some individuals develop neck laxity without significant loss of upper face fullness, and for these individuals surgery can be limited to the neck or lower face only. This may allow shorter incisions and a faster recovery. This procedure involves the removal of fat as necessary and tightening excess skin around the jawline and neck. Patients who find they need a Neck Lift may have experienced significant weight loss causing exaggerated skin laxity.

Procedures Often Combined with a Facelift

Eyelid Surgery
If a patient does not need a whole Facelift but is unhappy with drooping lids and tired-looking eyes, Blepharoplasty or eyelid surgery is a fantastic solution. This procedure focuses on removing the excess skin from either the upper, lower, or both eyelids. Skin is excised and fat contoured to refresh the eyes give a more youthful appearance, getting rid of tired-looking eyes. Eyelid surgery is customized to your individual features and may include skin excision, fat transfer, or redraping lower eyelid fat over the cheek bone to get rid of lower eyelid bag and leave a smooth and youthful undereye appearance.
Brow Lift Surgery
Also known as a Forehead Lift, Brow Lift surgery raises the eyebrows to a more youthful position. This in turn lifts drooping upper eyelids to give your eyes a wider, more awake look. Wrinkles between the brows or on the forehead can be softened with a Brow Lift. This is a minimally invasive procedure that can reverse inevitable signs of aging for a number of years to come. Brows can be temporarily "lifted" with strategic use of Botox if a patient is looking for an alternative to surgery. This is a more subtle improvement and won't address a brow that has lowered significantly due to skin laxity and aging.
Botox
Brows can be temporarily "lifted" with strategic use of Botox Cosmetic if a patient is looking for an alternative to surgery. This is a more subtle improvement and won't address a brow that has lowered significantly due to skin laxity and aging. If you are looking to get rid of facial wrinkles but don't want to undergo a surgical procedure, Botox is a great alternative. Botox is a minimally invasive, FDA-approved treatment that temporarily blocks the nerves connected to specific, wrinkle-causing facial muscles. When specific facial muscles are relaxed, the lines formed by those constant contractions disappear. A great example is the "smile lines" around the eyes. When Botox relaxes those small muscles, the lines around the eyes can be greatly reduced. Botox results are not permanent; you will need additional injections every 3-4 months to maintain results.
Fat Transfer
As we age, we lose fat from certain areas of the face. With today's techniques, your own fat can be collected with Liposuction, prepared and transplanted from one area of the body the face. This procedure will add volume to areas such as the cheek or undereye hollow and has the added benefit of long-lasting results, unlike some injectable fillers. Another benefit is addressing other fat deposits you would like to get rid of while enhancing your face. Our surgeons may in some cases advise the use of facial implants to the cheeks or chin to optimize bony contour.
Laser Skin Resurfacing
It makes little sense to undergo surgery to create a more youthful contour of face and neck and leave an aged or pigmented complexion behind. That's why we at PSS have included a discounted laser procedure in our Facelift or Quicklift package. Laser treatments can remove brown or red spots, fine lines, or treat enlarged pores. Laser Skin Resurfacing at Plastic Surgery Specialists uses state-of-the-art laser treatment to rejuvenate facial skin. This laser has 3 three benefits in one , offering ProFractional, Broad Band Light, and Erbium Micro Laser Peel options. The laser evens skin tone, improves skin texture, treats age spots, broken capillaries, and wrinkles. We will treat each patient with the appropriate laser for their individual skin tone. We recommend an ongoing skin care regime of medical grade products to maintain the results.

FAQ

How Much Does a Facelift Cost in San Francisco?
Your face is unique. Every contour of it deserves focus and differentiation. The price of a facelift is tailored to your specific needs and aesthetic goals. Plastic Surgery Specialists offers various financing options, and we also run occasional specials. Check back often or call (415) 384-9787 to discuss your questions regarding cost.

References

Hamra, S. T. (1992). Composite rhytidectomy. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. 90(1):1-13. DOI: 10.1097/00006534-199207000-00001.
Rohrich, R. J., Coberly, D. M., Fagien, S., Stuzin, J. M. (2004). Current Concepts in Aesthetic Upper Blepharoplasty. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
113(3)32e-42e. doi: 10.1097/01.PRS.0000105684.06281.32

Latest Facelift Posts from Our Blog

Should I Have a Facelift?
Read More at: https: //www.psspecialists.com/facelift/should-i-have-a-facelift/
Cosmetic Surgery as Back to School Prep?
Read More at: https://www.psspecialists.com/breast-augmentation/cosmetic-surgery-as-back-to-school-prep/.
Common Cosmetic Procedures Needed After Weight Loss
Read More at: https://www.psspecialists.com/coolsculpting/common-cosmetic-procedures-needed-after-weight-loss/.

Quicklift

What is QuickLift™?
QuickLift™ is a "mini surgery" that tightens the skin of the lower face and neck as an alternative to a traditional facelift, giving Marin County patients a fresher and youthful look, while requiring less recovery time of more extensive facial plastic surgery. Unlike other facelift procedures with similar names and other mini facelifts that tighten only the skin, a QuickLift suspends the underlying structures of the lower face, offering men and women the benefit of a younger appearance for years to come. Although the QuickLift™ procedure creates significant aesthetic improvement for most patients, it's important to keep in mind that the normal aging process still resumes after any facial procedure. Lifestyle choices, bone structure, skin type, sun exposure and heredity all play a part in determining how long the desired result will last. However significant improvement for 7-10 years or more may be achieved.
Best Candidates
The QuickLift™ is designed for busy men and women who want to stay ahead of the aging process but don't have the recovery time or inclination to consider a traditional Facelift. Many San Francisco Bay Area residents in this age group lose elasticity in their mid to lower face and develop varying degrees of looseness along the jaw line and beneath the chin. They will want to consult with our board-certified surgeons at Plastic Surgery Specialists to ensure they are in good health and know what to expect from this Mini Facelift. Some people may choose to combine face neck lift with eyelid surgery, laser procedures, or even facial implants.
The Procedure
This specific Facelift procedure addresses sagging skin (and its underlying muscle) on the mid to lower face. While it is conservative when compared to a traditional Facelift, the QuickLift™ still has the capability to take five to ten years off one's appearance because it changes areas that are typically the first to show signs of aging. Inconspicuous incisions are made along the sideburn area and under and behind the earlobe, ensuring minimal scarring (which fades eventually). Repositioning of the deeper tissue layers carrying the facial fat takes all the tension off the skin. This simpler procedure is enough to tighten the jowls, smooth out the skin at the neck, reduce nasolabial folds, and tighten the skin of the cheeks. Other procedures, such as eyelid contouring, laser, fat transfer or even the insertion of Cheek and Chin Implants, can be performed at the same time.
Post QuickLift™ Cosmetic Procedure
The Mini Facelift is an outpatient procedure that usually requires ~ 2 hours depending on the ancillary procedures required for a given individual. The anesthesia can be very light which makes for an easier recovery which is typically quicker than a full facelift, and patients can usually get out and about comfortably after 7-10 days. Visitors who searched for QuickLift™ may also be interested in Facelift or Cheek and Chin Implants. If you've been thinking about getting a Facelift and live in Greenbrae or surrounding areas, please schedule a consultation today with Plastic Surgery Specialists to discuss the QuickLift procedure. You can also contact us at (415) 886-0777.

FAQs

Can QuickLift™ be done under local anesthesia?
Yes and most patients can be back to work or social activities in 7-10 days.
Does QuickLift™ correct neck or brow aging?
For some, correction of lax cheeks and jowls is all that is necessary, but it can be customized to correct neck and brow and include ancillary procedures like laser or fat injection. Still recovery and costs can be a fraction of traditional face lifts. In some cases, it may be able to replace such procedures as brow lift in San Francisco or traditional facelifts.

Brow Lift

What is a Brow Lift?
A Brow Lift (also known as a Forehead Lift or Browplasty) is a plastic surgery procedure that raises the eyebrows to a higher and more aesthetic position. It also improves lateral hoods, the droopy flaps of skin that often hang over the outside corner of the eyes. Horizontal forehead wrinkles and scowl lines between the eyebrows can also be softened with a Brow Lift. Marin County residents often choose a Brow Lift because it is minimally invasive and results in a younger appearance for years to come. People who live throughout Marin County, including Greenbrae, Larkspur, Corte Madera, Mill Valley, Santa Rosa, San Rafael and Novato, can get a forehead lift in our beautiful surgery center equipped with state-of-the-art technology where our board certified plastic surgeons will make sure you get the look you desire.
Best Candidates
Most patients opting for a Brow Lift are between 40 and 50 years old and have brow lines and eyelids that have begun to sag noticeably. They may also have wrinkles or creases along the forehead, causing them to look angry or sad even when they are not. Hereditary conditions can sometimes render people in their 20s and 30s good candidates for Browplasty as well. If you are considering this procedure, you should have a thorough understanding of what it can and cannot accomplish. After a consultation with the team at Plastic Surgery Specialists, some may decide that a Brow Lift is best performed in conjunction with other procedures, such as a Facelift or Eyelid Surgery.
The Procedure
During a Forehead Lift, tiny incisions are made in the hairline around the forehead. From these incisions, the skin and underlying muscle tissue can be loosened and separated from the forehead bone beneath it. The brow can then be lifted to a higher position. During the Brow Lift, the muscles that cause frown lines can actually be severed to remove the frown lines and keep them from coming back.
Post-Brow Lift Procedure
Browplasty may require either local or general anesthesia. Pain medication may be needed afterward along with cold compresses. Bruising and swelling usually abate quickly. Any external stitches can be removed in about a week. Internal sutures incurred during a Browplasty will dissolve in about nine months, giving the muscles and connective tissue time to heal. Results should be apparent very soon after the procedure. For more information on Forehead Lift, please visit our 3D Education Center. Visitors who searched for Brow Lift may also be interested in Facelift or Eyelid Surgery. Schedule a consultation with Plastic Surgery Specialists today. Contact us at (415) 886-0777

Neck Lift

What is a Neck Lift?
Loose skin and neck banding are usually associated with aging, but hereditary factors can cause even younger men and women to lose definition in their jawline and neck. Significant weight loss can also contribute to sagging or hanging skin, requiring a neck lift. Adult men and women, who are otherwise healthy, may appear older than they are because of this condition. We remove excess skin on the neck and along the jawline with a Neck Lift, restoring a smooth profile and more youthful appearance. Our Greenbrae surgical center is equipped with the latest technology, and our board-certified plastic surgeons have vast experience in achieving beautiful-looking, natural results for our patients with Neck Lift procedures. A Neck Lift (or Platysmaplasty) can tighten sagging skin and reduce excess fat and/or "banding" on the neck.
Skin Laxity
The aging that impacts the face and neck are typically a result of skin laxity and damage. Skin laxity occurs when skin elasticity declines due to age, the damaging effects of sun exposure, decreased volume due to fat loss, and reduction of collagen. Smoking and stress are also known to age the skin. Skin laxity, or loose skin, leads to the development of wrinkles, sunken cheeks, creases, sagging bands of skin, stretched skin and jowls. Youthful, healthy skin is able to bounce back when pulled and easily resist the effects of gravity. Under the chin, along the jawline, and around the neck, skin is particularly vulnerable to the effects of aging and skin laxity. The neck lift is the ideal treatment for addressing lax skin of the lower face and neck.
Our Neck Lift Technique
The neck lift procedure involves incisions placed behind the ears and under the chin to remove excess skin and fat. Once the excess skin has been removed, the physician will lift and tighten the remaining skin to achieve a more youthful, firmer, facial appearance. This is intended to improve the signs of aging that may occur on the neck and jawline. Our neck lift technique targets the symptoms of aging caused by neck laxity, which diminishes facial fullness. More traditional typically addressed sagging skin exclusively, but modern methods focus more on underlying muscle layers that are connected to subcutaneous fat. By addressing these areas, deeper, more natural-looking lifting is achieved.
Good Candidates
Ideal candidates for a neck lift are healthy men and women who are concerned about sagging and drooping skin on the lower face, neck, and jawline. A Neck Lift is often combined with lower Facelift surgery, which works to eliminate sagging skin and muscle and tissue of the cheeks as well, for a more comprehensive anti-aging treatment. Skin laxity that results in a "turkey gobbler" or drooping skin under the skin that creates the impression of a double chin, are also good candidates. During your personal consultation, you can discuss and point out the specific signs of aging that concern you the most.
Preparation
Patients who smoke will be asked to quit at least two weeks prior to surgery and refrain from taking any anti-inflammatory medications so for 2 weeks before the procedure. It is advised that the patient schedules a medical evaluation with their primary doctor before the date of the procedure. Patients won't be able to drive after the procedure and are advised to make travel arrangements on the day of their procedure.
Procedure
Neck Lift surgery typically performed on an outpatient basis and may take as little as one hour under local or general anesthesia. Once the patient is resting comfortably, short, small incisions are made below the ears. Excess skin is removed and liposuction to sculpt away extra fat is performed at this time and incisions are sutured. Depending on the candidate, the surgeon may add a fat transfer to areas of the neck where fat loss has decreased volume. The fat transfer restores areas that can become too thin and helps diminish the look of "banding." Additionally, skin resurfacing with laser treatments add an exceptional level of skin renewal, so that skin is both tightened surgically and with collagen stimulation from laser techniques.
Recovery and Results
Every patient will heal and recover at their own pace. At Plastic Surgery Specialists, we provide each patient with a customized recovery plan tailored to their treatment and their body. Generally, bruising and swelling are commonly experienced. We recommend resting with the head elevated and ice packs to improve healing. Pain and discomfort can be addressed with prescription pain medication. If you have questions and concerns at any point during your recovery, the staff at Plastic Surgery Specialist are always available. In the weeks following your treatment, you will also have a follow-up appointment to assess your recovery and remove your sutures. The results of a neck lift are long-term. Patients who take care to avoid sun exposure and skin-damaging activities such as smoking can experience improvements that last as long as ten years.
Consultation
Contact Plastic Surgery Specialists today to schedule your consultation. Your consultation will be a private conversation with either Dr. Poulos, Dr. Douglas and Dr. Hvistendahl. Together, you will be able to discuss your aesthetic goals and the doctor will make a customized recommendation. Every patient's case is unique and there are no one-size-fits-all types of procedures. We tailor all our treatments in fine detail to the individual patient. For anti-aging treatments such as the neck lift, it is a good idea to bring in photos of your younger self. These photos provide accurate references to produce the most natural-looking results. Any questions about pricing and payment plans can be discussed during your consultation as well.
Cost
The cost of a neck lift depends on the severity of the individual's skin laxity or type of additional procedures that are recommended to the patient. We will provide a detailed quote during the consultation and walk you through the entire process.

Additional Procedures

Liposuction
For patients with excess fat deposits around the lower face and neck area, liposuction may be their best option. Diet and exercise, although essential to good health, does not achieve targeted weight loss. This results in deposits of fat that can collect under the chin, and around the neck. Liposuction is ideal for targeting and sculpting away deposits of fat that do not respond to diet or exercise.
Facelift
The facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure popularly combined with the neck lift. The a href="/cosmetic-surgery/face/facelift/" facelift addresses aging symptoms of the upper and mid face region such as creases below the eyelids, sagging around the eyes, deep creases along the nose and drooping cheeks. At Plastic Surgery Specialists, we offer a specialized, minimally-invasive a href="/cosmetic-surgery/face/facelift/" facelift technique called the QuickLift. The Quicklift's unique suturing method produces the same level of rejuvenation as a traditional facelift, but with minimal surgical scarring.
Brow Lift
The brow lift, or forehead lift, is a surgical procedure where sagging brows and a drooping forward are treated. Sagging of the eyebrows can create a sleep appearance and even interfere with vision. The brow lift involves removing excess skin along the hairline to raise the brow and forehead.

Non-Surgical Alternatives

Kybella
Kybella is one of the newest, advanced injectable treatments and is designed to sculpt submental fat. In general, a Kybella treatment course may involve six sessions spaced about a month apart. The number of injections is dependent on the amount of sculpting desired. The main ingredient in Kybella is called deoxycholic acid. Deoxycholic acid is a naturally-occurring agent in the body that participates in fat tissue breakdown. Kybella injections operate the same way, breaking down fat cells under the chin and allowing the body to gradually remove those destroyed fat cells.
CoolSculpting
CoolSculpting now has a "mini" applicator that can be used for fat under the chin. Careful assessment is needed to make sure this technology is right for you, but it does offer a great alternative to surgery for fat reduction. It will not, however, tighten skin.

Fat Transfer

If you have considered undergoing a facial rejuvenation procedure but don't think you are ready for a Facelift or other form of Facial Plastic Surgery at this time, you might consider Fat Transfer.
San Francisco Bay Area women and men travel to our Greenbrae clinic for fat injections. For many decades, we thought excess skin was the most obvious sign of aging on the face. It is now recognized that an apparent excess of skin is at least in part due to the loss of soft tissue bulk, or fat, from the face. Through Fat Transfer, natural fat may be transferred from other parts of the body (usually from the abdomen, flanks, or thighs) to areas of the face in need of additional volume.
Previous methods of harvesting and injecting fat rendered Fat Transfer results similar to those of other dermal fillers.
Our Marin County practice uses improved instrumentation and techniques to perform Fat Transfer, making the "take" of fat more predictable and the correction longer lasting. Injected fat can be sculpted to restore attractive contours to your cheeks, chin, under-eye area, lips, nasolabial folds, marionette grooves, upper eyelids, and even your hands.

Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)

What is Eyelid Surgery?
Eyelid Surgery (or Blepharoplasty) can be performed on the upper lids, the lower lids, or both. Blepharoplasty involves removing skin that is hooding the upper eyelid and/or reshaping wrinkles or removing excess fat deposits in the lower lids. Eyelid Surgery helps to give the eyes a younger and more rested appearance. Our board-certified plastic surgeons provide the best possible care to the women and men who visit us for Eyelid Surgery from Marin, Napa, and Sonoma County. Our beautiful surgery center in Marin County, where we perform eyelid surgery, is equipped with state of the art technology and an excellent clinical and professional staff.
Best Candidates
Blepharoplasty is ideal for older individuals who want to bring life back to their faces and get rid of that "tired eyes" look. Loose skin hanging down from the upper lids can sometimes be more than an aesthetic concern too, as it can actually impair vision to some extent. Insurance companies, however, do not usually cover eyelid surgery. Our Greenbrae office staff can help answer your insurance questions. People with puffiness under their eyes may also want to consider Blepharoplasty. Younger people in cities such as Greenbrae, Larkspur, Corte Madera, Mill Valley, Santa Rosa, and San Rafael, who have droopy eyelids as a result of genetic factors are good candidates as well. All those considering Blepharoplasty should be in good health and have reasonable expectations.
The Procedure
To begin Eyelid Surgery, incision guidelines are carefully drawn to ensure that the natural contour of the eye is followed and resulting scars will be as inconspicuous as possible. Reducing excess skin beneath the eyes is performed via tiny incisions on the outside of the lower eyelid. A single incision inside the eyelid can remove fatty deposits in the area called the conjunctiva. An incision in the fold of the upper eyelid can be used to remove excess skin in that area. A small strip of muscle may be removed as well.
Post Eyelid Procedure
The Blepharoplasty procedure is performed with a local or general anesthetic. It can take one to three hours depending on whether or not both lids are being addressed. Protective plastic shields not unlike contact lenses can be used to protect the eyes during this cosmetic eyelid surgery. Cold compresses and pain medication will help to ease any discomfort after the surgery. Absorbable sutures will heal on their own while non-absorbable sutures are usually removed after a week — though you will want to talk to your doctor to determine when activity can be resumed. The results of aesthetic Eyelid Surgery are long lasting. For more information on how Eyelid Surgery is performed, visit our Education Center. We alslo invite you to schedule a consultation with Plastic Surgery Specialists today. Contact us at (415) 886-0777.

FAQ

Will eyelid surgery affect my vision?
Eyelid surgery involves the skin of the lid only and should not affect vision. It is important, however, to maintain lubrication of the eyes as this is one of the primary functions of eyelid anatomy. In cases where excessive hooding has impeded vision, patients may experience improved range of vision.
Should I get a brow lift in addition to eyelid surgery?
Aging in the upper face often appears as hooding of upper eyelid skin. As we get older, eyebrows gradually droop, contributing to this appearance as much, and sometimes more, than the upper eyelids' loose skin. For this reason, it is sometimes reasonable to consider a subtle brow lift to slightly elevate the brow along with sculpting of the lid skin. Modern surgical techniques are much more conservative and in our opinion, the results are more beautiful.
Is it possible to soften heavy lines in the forehead caused by frowning and raising the brow?
Yes, there are several options for correction of dynamic wrinkle lines. In fact, BOTOX® Cosmetic injections create a much more rested appearance by minimizing the degree of muscle movement. We are happy to discuss with you the differences between results achieved with surgical versus nonsurgical rejuvenation.
Can I combine a facelift with eyelid surgery?
Eyelid surgery is usually all that's needed for patients who are just beginning to notice signs of aging. However, one of the goals of cosmetic surgery is to get harmonious results that appear natural. Having youthful eyelids in a face that is sagging creates an unnatural appearance. You wouldn't want to have one side of your face appear younger than the other side. Likewise, the upper and lower areas of the face should be balanced.
How much does eyelid surgery cost?
Eyelid surgery costs vary depending on the degree of correction and whether or not complementary procedures are performed. However, Plastic Surgery Specialists offers pricing that is within the reasonable range for the Bay Area. Your surgeon can give you a specific quote at your consultation.

Latest Eyelid Surgery Posts From Our Blog

Cosmetic Surgery as Back to School Prep?
Read More at: https://www.psspecialists.com/breast-augmentation/cosmetic-surgery-as-back-to-school-prep/.
What are the most common cosmetic procedures?
Read More at: https://www.psspecialists.com/breast-augmentation/what-are-the-most-common-cosmetic-procedures/.
The Impact of Low Physical Self Esteem On Your Role in the Workplace
Read More at: https://www.psspecialists.com/eyelid-surgery/the-impact-of-low-physical-self-esteem-on-your-role-in-the-workplace/.

Rhinoplasty

Introduction
What do you look at in the mirror everyday? Your eyes (windows to the soul), your mouth, your nose? Are you happy with the shape and size of your nose? This featured could be argued the most "fixable." There are surgical techniques that can reshape the nose and truly create an improvement in your look. Since Renaissance times artists have tried to measure beauty in mathematical proportions. These days, studies have proven that symmetry is one of the main elements in the perception of beauty because it displays good health and strong genes. If a person's nose is crooked or oddly sized, this can detract from their entire face, and can adversely affect their lives both professionally and personally. For those who are dissatisfied with the size, shape, or proportions of their nose, rhinoplasty offers a surgical solution. Because of its tremendous success rates, rhinoplasty is popular amongst everyone from Hollywood starlets, to athletes, to stay-at-home moms. It is the second most common elective surgery other than liposuction. Whether your nose is too large, wide, or crooked, rhinoplasty can successfully change its size and symmetry, adding or taking away just the right amount to balance out the face. For some people, injuries leave their noses crooked and out of alignment with their faces. For other people, congenital disorders such as a cleft lip and palate make rhinoplasty a necessity to achieve normal breathing, shape, and contour of the nose. If rhinoplasty is done well it not only changes the way people physically look and feel, it also changes the way they feel about themselves mentally and emotionally. Our surgeons listen carefully to keep an open communication with their patients from the consultation stage, to the healing phase, of surgery which proves time and again to produce successful outcomes and satisfied patients.
What Is Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty is a series of surgical techniques used alone or in combination to correct various nasal imbalances, or impaired breathing caused by structural defects of the nose. The main goal of the surgery is to achieve better alignment of the nose in proportion to a patient's face and to improve functionality. The initial surgery begins with a small incision inside the nostrils, which separates the bone and tissue. At this stage a number of different methods are available to reshape the cartilage in the nose. Whether shaving, cutting, or trimming, your doctor will have deciphered his exact approach during the consultation stage. The surgical plan will then be executed and the final result will help you to achieve the look you envisioned. Depending on the technical approach your doctor uses, rhinoplasty can be categorized as either open or closed. In an open rhinoplasy, the surgeon makes an additional small incision into the fleshy, outer part of the septum. With closed rhinoplasty the surgeon performs small incisions within the nose and does not cut the septum. During the consultation the doctor performs an analysis of your nasal tip, examining the skin thickness. This will determine whether your case requires the open or closed technique.
Candidates for Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty can correct numerous nasal problems, whether you are suffering physically, emotionally, or both as a result of your nose shape. Using state-of-the-art technology, our surgeons can demonstrate the results that you will get from various surgical techniques. This allows them to understand what you want, and to determine the best surgical approach. The best candidates for surgery generally meet a few basic criteria. To see the best result, surgeons recommend that your face be fully grown. This guarantees that the surgery results will last and won't become misplaced as your face grows and changes. Additionally, you must be physically healthy; no signs of disease or pre-existing illnesses can be present for a surgeon to operate on a patient to have the surgery. Smoking is not allowed, as it puts the surgery and recovery at risk. You also need to have a realistic idea of what the surgery can accomplish. A positive outlook and realistic outlook, with clear communication with your doctor will help achieve a great experience and successful result. the process, and your communication with your doctor, making the entire experience more enjoyable.
What to expect during a consultation
During your consultation, one of our skilled surgeons will listen to your concerns and aesthetic goals. The doctor will then perform a thorough examination of your nose, both from the outside and inside, noting the structures of the upper, middle, and lower sections of the nose. The doctor will also take measurements of your nasal angles and the physical characteristics of the bony and soft tissue. These tests help the doctor to decide a surgical plan and bring you one step closer to your physical ideal. Once the doctor has decided what techniques will best suit your case he will discuss any necessary preparations that must be done before surgery and will answer any questions you might have. The doctor will recommend a complete physical exam, if necessary, to see if you are in good physical condition to have rhinoplasty. This is precautionary but can also be important in reducing the chance of complications. By comparing your nose to your face, a plan is set so that a balanced look is achieved.
Recovery
During the recovery process there are a number of guidelines to follow in order for you to have the fastest recovery possible and the best final result. You will need to designate a person to drive you to and from the surgery. There should also be a person to supervise you for two days following the surgery. Because driving is also prohibited for ten days following the procedure, somebody will need to drive you to and from your follow up appointments as well. When you sleep, your head should be elevated at least 30 degrees, in order to reduce swelling. Pain and discomfort are managed by prescribed pain medication. Ice packs are also helpful to manage swelling and discomfort. Minimal bleeding and some fluid drainage are pretty normal and expected after your surgery. Immediately after the surgery, a splint will be placed around your nose to protect it from any unwanted pressure or accidental movement while it sets. This splint is usually removed after a week's time. Additionally, self-dissolving internal stitches and external stitches will be removed within a week. There may be pain and swelling immediately following the surgery but this will subside after some time. The full results of your surgery may take some time to show. The doctor will instruct you to avoid any strenuous activity or exercise for ten to fourteen days following the procedure. This narrows the chances of additional swelling or bleeding. To make sure the healing process continues as planned, you should also avoid saunas, steam rooms, alcohol, and any sun exposure whatsoever.
Cost
Pricing for a rhinoplasty surgery varies depending on the surgical techniques needed to achieve your cosmetic goals. PSS offers convenient financing options designed to fit a wide range of budgets. During your initial consultation, your Doctor will discuss every detail with you, making sure you are well informed about what techniques are necessary. Then a price quote will be discussed and set for your upcoming surgery.

Issues that can be corrected by Rhinoplasty

A wide or bulbous nasal tip
A bump on the bridge of the nose
A narrow or pinched tip
Nasal tip angle is drooping too far or rotated upwards
Nostrils too flared
Bridge of nose is too wide or flat
Nose is too long, short, crooked or asymmetric
Difficulty breathing

Procedure

Primary Rhinoplasty
This surgery improves the contours of the soft tissues of the nose. It is the most popular type of cosmetic surgery other than liposuction. It can either be used to improve the aesthetic look of the nose or can be used to improve functionality and breathing. During this surgery excess bone and cartilage are removed from underneath the skin covering the nose. After the desired shape and angles are achieved, the skin is repositioned over the new framework revealing the new nose. Any difference may be subtle or quite dramatic, depending on what was decided by the surgeon during the consultation.
Revision Rhinoplasty
Many people have difficulty breathing from their nose, or are dissatisfied with the cosmetic appearance of their nose after prior nasal surgery. This is when Revision Rhinoplasty is required. It is the most complicated form or rhinoplasty, as it is corrective. It is designed to repair both form and function of the nose after previous surgeries have been performed. During this surgery the doctor may need to re-break the bone or even add cartilage to the nasal structure from other areas of the body such as the ribs.
Functional Nasal Surgery
This surgery treats nasal conditions and irregularities such as sinusitis, nasal polyps, and chronic sinus issues. Using nasal endoscopes the surgeon restores drainage in the para nasal sinuses and improves ventilation of the nasal cavity. Functional Nasal Surgery can also be used to improve issues with chronic snoring and sleep apnea. Because it is not considered cosmetic and treats nasal issues it is often covered by insurance.
Alternative Treatments
There really aren't any known alternatives to Rhinoplasty for the correction or alteration of the nasal structure. In recent years injectables have been used to correct slight cosmetic flaws in the nose but this is not considered a permanent solution like rhinoplasty. Injectables can be used to fill indentations or areas that are considered to be inadequate in the nasal structure. It is important that temporary fillers are used when filling areas of the nose, as more permanent fillers can lead to complications and infections of the nasal passages.

Chin and Cheek Implants

Best Candidates
Candidates for Cheek Surgery should be healthy men and women who have lost tissue volume in the mid face area or who simply desire a more prominent cheek contour than the one they were born with. Candidates for Chin Implant surgery will have a receding chin or a chin that is not in proportion with their other facial features. All candidates should know that Cheek and Chin Implants come in many shapes and sizes for both men and women. They can be further customized for each individual. Using their state-of-the-art Vectra 3D Imaging technology, Plastic Surgery Specialists can even show you how you will look with different implants, which helps enormously when making decisions about facial structure. Candidates for Chin and Cheek Implants should be in good health and have reasonable expectations.
The Procedure
Cheek Implants are usually inserted through an incision in the mouth, in an area above the gums. They can then be manipulated into the desired position. The tissue layers are closed around them with dissolvable sutures to keep them in place during the procedure. In some instances it may be desirable to insert Check Implants through an incision made in the area of the lower eyelid. A final incision point is sometimes the scalp, in the temple area where any scarring will be covered with hair. For patients for whom Cheek Implants are a component of a more extensive Facelift procedure, there are additional insertion options. Chin Implant procedures also call for implants to be inserted through incisions in the mouth. Once the implant is correctly positioned, it is secured with sutures (and/or tiny screws).
Post Chin and Cheek Implants Procedure
Cheek and Chin Implants surgeries require either local or general anesthesia. They can take under an hour, depending on various circumstances, and are usually performed on an outpatient basis. However, there may be instances when it is best to be monitored overnight. With both Chin Implants and Cheek Implants, tape may be placed on the area of the implant to keep the implant stable should any swelling ensue. Ice may be needed if swelling is considerable. Sutures placed in the mouth usually dissolve in a few weeks. Any external sutures will need to be removed by your doctor at a follow-up visit. Those with oral incisions will want to have a soft diet for a few days. Visitors who searched for Chin Implants or Cheek Surgery may also be interested in Facial Fillers, Botox or Fat Transfer. If you are considering getting chin or cheek implants and live in Novato, Mill Valley or another part of Marin County Schedule a consultation with Plastic Surgery Specialists today. Contact us at (415) 886-0777.

FAQs

How does one know if a facelift, brow lift, neck lift, or chin and cheek implants are required?
Again this depends on the artistic vision of the surgeon and the goals of the patient. The test results are achieved and the face has a harmonious balance. One would never correct the right half of the face and not the left. In a similar fashion, correction of the upper face alone, no matter how skillfully done, will remain out of balance with major aging changes in the lower face or neck. The key is selecting the appropriate procedure for the appropriate patient. Modern facial rejuvenation relies less on tightening the skin and more on volume replacement. Once facial balance is restored, the complexion must be addressed. Laser resurfacing can eliminate unsightly blemishes and fine-line wrinkling, which greatly enhances the results of a well done lift.
Will I be able to feel the implant?
Normally the implant will become incorporated in your tissues and cannot be felt.

Ear Reshaping

Candidates
Both children and adults can be candidates for Ear Reshaping. Children with protruding ears or ear abnormalities can endure teasing and ridicule, which can in turn result in a lack of self esteem. PSS surgeons, who are Otoplasty specialists in the San Francisco Bay Area, can create a more positive psychological environment for children through Ear Plastic Surgery. Generally Otoplasty is preformed on children aged 5 and up, when the ear cartilage is mature enough for correction. However, there may be instances when it is best to have Otoplasty performed on even younger children. Many adults who did not have the option of Ear Reshaping Surgery when they were younger and have already endured years of embarrassment and self confidence issues will be happy to know that medical and technological advancements have rendered Ear Reshaping Surgery more straightforward than ever. All healthy men and women in Marin County who have protruding ears or ear deformities and want to have Otoplasty are also appropriate candidates for this procedure.
Procedure
The specific methods used in Ear Plastic Surgery can vary based upon the patients' needs and desired outcomes. There are several ways the ear can be reshaped. Cartilage can be cut, or it can be folded and stitched. The procedure usually begins with a small incision at the back of the ear, allowing the Otoplasty specialist to access the region as unobtrusively as possible.
Recovery
Otoplasty can take one to two hours to complete, although certain complexities can require a longer surgery. A topical or general anesthetic is usually recommended to ensure comfort. Some Ear Reshaping may be covered by insurance carriers. It is a good idea to investigate insurance options early on. Otoplasty recovery time can be a week or more. You will have to wear dressings for the first week, and you will be advised about bands that can be worn for sleep. Because the incision site is generally behind the ear, scarring is not very noticeable, but whatever scaring does occur will fade over time. If you or your child are candidates for otoplasty and you live in Mill Valley, Novato, or another part of Marin County, please schedule a consultation with Plastic Surgery Specialists today. Contact us at (415) 886-0777.

FAQs

How Is Ear Surgery Performed?
Most prominent ears are due to a combination of cartilage excess, improper formation, or abnormal cartilaginous architecture. Using three small incisions skillfully hidden within the ear, this reshaping can be done by increasing the balance. As discussed with nasal surgery, one does not usually notice well-shaped ears. Ears out of proportion or poorly shaped will draw attention.
What Is Recovery Like After Ear Surgery?
The surgery usually takes less than 2 hours and allows the patient to return to normal activities within 1-2 days. We may ask you to wear a headband at night to assist in minimizing trauma to the newly positioned ears. Some time will be required for resolution of swelling to create natural architecture in the ear anatomy. Plastic Surgery Specialists is known throughout the Bay Area for our excellence and expertise. Choose your area below to get accurate, easy-to-follow directions to our center.Napa & Sonoma Santa Rosa San Francisco East Bay South Bay Palo Alto & the Peninsula.

Reconstructive Surgery

People often ask why our specialty is called "plastic?"
It originates from the greek "plastikos" which means to mold or change. Thus the names for many operations like rhinoplasty or mammaplasty. Nearly all these aesthetic operations had their roots in reconstructive techniques developed after World War I which have been refined over the years.
Dr. Poulos, Dr. Douglas and Dr. Hvistendahl are proud of their extensive training in reconstructive plastic surgery, which complements their expertise in cosmetic surgery.
Traumatic injuries, congenital deformities, post mastectomy breast reconstruction and reconstruction are integral to our practice and we consult on these problems daily.

Plastic Surgery Specialists Gives Back

The surgeons at PSS are proud to make a living using our surgical skills to do something we love.
We realize that not all patients have the financial resources or insurance to afford our reconstructive services. Whenever possible, we arrange free surgical and anesthesia services for patients who otherwise would not be able to afford them. If you know of someone who might qualify, we will be happy to consult and will strive to make this happen.

Breast Reconstruction

Plastic Surgery Specialists is very active in Breast Reconstruction for Breast Cancer patient programs.
We serve as part of a team that includes oncology specialists, oncology surgeons, and reconstructive surgeons. Working together we are able to offer patients every option available, including immediate reconstruction performed at the time of the breast cancer surgery for our San Francisco Bay Area patients. You also have the option of delayed procedures, which may vary from microvascular free flaps to skin expanders or fat transfers.
Today's plastic surgery techniques offer many options for patients wanting to undergo Breast Reconstruction after Mastectomy.
You will want to consult with your reconstruction team early on to decide which alternatives best meet your goals. Some women may want to have Breast Reconstruction Surgery performed at the time the breast or breasts are removed. Others may want to wait. These are not easy decisions to make and certainly patients dealing with serious health issues are not able to give them their full attention. PSS, the Breast Reconstruction Specialist Team, can be instrumental in helping you to decide which options best coincide with your lifestyle. Most insurance companies will cover Breast Reconstruction after Mastectomy.

Surgery Options

Once a patient has decided whether to have immediate or delayed Breast Reconstruction Surgery
She will want to discuss various reconstruction methods with her Breast Reconstruction Specialist and the other members of her oncological team.
One method of Reconstructive Breast Surgery involves using tissue from one's abdomen, back, buttocks or other area of the body, to create what is known as an "autologous flap".
This flap can be used to reconstruct one or both breasts following Mastectomy. Precision microsurgery attaches vessels from the harvested flap to vessels in the breast area, allowing for blood to circulate to the reconstructed breasts. Another breast reconstruction option requires using a Breast Implant, an elastic silicone sac filled with a saline solution or silicone gel. In some circumstances it may be possible to preserve the skin of the breast and position the implant beneath it.
Another option involves inserting a temporary tissue expander under any remaining breast skin.
A saline solution can be added to the expander over a period of weeks so that the skin above it stretches to the size needed for the new breast, at which time the expander can be replaced with a permanent Breast Implant.
PSS also performs Reconstructive Surgery for breast cancer patients wherein the autologous flap and implant are used together.
Some patients opt to take the next step in the reconstruction process and have revision surgery to give the breast a more natural appearance, including procedures to recreate nipples and areolas.
There are many other Breast Reconstructive Surgery options as well, and many that are currently being researched.
You can rest assured that Plastic Surgery Specialists is committed to staying on the cutting edge of Plastic Surgery Breast Reconstruction. This enables us to provide our patients with the advantage not only of our expertise and experience but also an inclusive knowledge of new techniques being developed worldwide.
Performing Reconstructive Surgery for breast cancer patients requires anesthesia and usually takes two to eight hours to complete, depending on which method is employed.
Remaining hospitalized for a week or more will ensure the best possible outcome. Drain tubes are usually removed after a couple of days following Reconstructive Breast Surgery, and any non-dissolving sutures will be removed in a week or two. You will want to wear a support garment to promote healing. Your Breast Reconstruction Specialist will provide you with a detailed recovery plan to meet your unique needs.

Post Bariatric Surgery

Post Bariatric Reconstruction Surgery with PSS
Nearly all massive weight loss patients end up having excess skin. Plastic surgery can provide these patients with the procedures they require to achieve the full rewards they deserve following their dramatic life change. We can offer Post Bariatric Reconstruction Surgery patients the benefit of a full program developed to meet their unique needs. Post Bariatric Reconstruction Surgery programs can focus on one surgery addressing several regions of the body (and therefore allowing for one recovery period) or multiple surgeries, each addressing one region of the body, over a period of time.
Best Candidate for Post Bariatric Surgery
Post Bariatric Reconstruction Surgery patients should have attained a stable weight that is appropriate for their bone structure before undergoing Reconstructive Surgery. They should be in good health and have reasonable expectations about Post Bariatric Reconstruction results.
The Procedure
The function of Post Bariatric Surgery is to eliminate the excess skin that most Bariatric Surgery patients experience after they have lost so much weight. However, some patients may still have pockets of fat in certain areas. For this reason Liposuction is a big part of most Post Bariatric Reconstruction Programs. Reconstruction following weight loss can also include Body Lift, Tummy Tuck, Breast Reduction or Breast Lift, Gynecomasty Surgery, Arm Lift, and even Facelift or Neck Lift. This may sound overwhelming, but working with PSS will ensure that you have only the surgeries you need and that the ones that can overlap, such as Tummy Tuck and Body Lift, are preformed as one surgery. How much Reconstruction Surgery you actually require will depend a lot on your age, your skin's elasticity, and other factors. Visitors who searched for Post Bariatric Reconstruction Surgery may also want to search Body Contouring. Schedule a consultation with Plastic Surgery Specialists today. Contact us at (415) 886-0777.

FAQs

Do plastic surgeons do this surgery?
Typically these procedures are performed by specially trained general surgeons. Plastic Surgeons become involved in the post bariatric stages after the weight loss has occurred and a stable weight has been achieved. Plastic surgery is then required in order to reshape the body. Weight loss changes can also affect the face and neck, chest, abdomen, back, buttock, and legs.
What type of procedure corrects these changes after weight loss?
In each case a procedure is individually designed to achieve an optimal result. In some cases it may not be possible to correct all areas in one operation. The most important consideration is safety. The benefits of a single-stage procedure must be weighed against the operative time involved. At Plastic Surgery Specialists, we perform these surgeries as a team with two surgeons and two assistants. This allows a much faster operation with fewer complications. It is very common to perform a breast lift with implants, tummy tuck or circumferential body lift and even facial procedures during one operation.
How long is the recovery?
It depends on the procedure, but it is usually one month for the more complicated operations and, of course, at least a year for maturation of the scars. Most patients who have lost a massive amount of weight will require more than one operation to achieve an optimal result, as the skin elasticity is poor and touch ups are the rule than the exception.

Trauma Reconstruction

Laceration Repair Surgery is an essential component of the reconstruction care available at Plastic Surgery Specialists's Marin County surgical center.
Victims of lacerations may be any age, and may experience anything from a superficial contusion requiring a straightforward cosmetic solution to a life-threatening wound demanding the immediate attention of a full surgical team, including plastic surgeons.
Plastic Surgery Specialists partners with area hospitals and surgical teams to provide aesthetic treatments for laceration victims who opt for it.
Part of the job of Laceration Repair Surgery is either to close wounds or oversee their closing so that the best possible suture type and placement can be used to prevent excessive scarring. Because it is the job of emergency room surgeons to focus on vital organs and on stopping the bleeding and preventing any infection that may be result following a serious laceration, not having an attending plastic surgeon can result in unintentional disfiguration in the future. This can be especially detrimental if the laceration is on the face or other exposed area. Reconstructive Plastic Surgery for Life Threatening Accidents may not be the primary concern for most patients at the time of an emergency operation, but once their recovery is underway, knowing specialists are there to minister to their cosmetic needs can bring them a measure of comfort in a difficult time. Many insurance companies will cover Traumatic Reconstructive Plastic Surgery in the San Francisco Bay Area.
There are many types of lacerations to be considered.
Some have straight lines and others are jagged and may require that skin and tissue first be trimmed before Traumatic Reconstructive Plastic Surgery can be fully performed. As with other varieties of reconstructive surgery, Laceration Repair can include grafting healthy skin from another part of the body or even transplanting skin, muscle and sometimes bone to create a flap. A flap can have its own blood supply or, by employing the advanced techniques of microsurgery, blood vessels from the flap can be attached to blood vessels in the new location to create a new blood supply. Tissue expansion can also be used, depending on the region of the laceration.
Recovery time depends on a multitude of factors.
Just as PSS works with multi-disciplinary medical teams to provide the solutions to address the injury, we remain an integral part of the recovery team as well.
Schedule a consultation with Plastic Surgery Specialists today. Contact us at (415) 886-0777.

References

1
Staalesen, T., Olsén, M. F., & Elander, A. (2013). Experience of Excess Skin and Desire for Body Contouring Surgery in Post-bariatric Patients. Obesity Surgery, 23(10), 1632–1644. doi: 10.1007/s11695-013-0978-z
2
Grover, N., & D'Souza, A. (2013). Facelift Approach for Parotidectomy. Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, 148(4), 548-556. doi:10.1177/0194599812475221
3
Moody, B. R., & Weber, P. J. (2005). Blepharoplasty and Brow Lift. Surgery of the Skin, 673-689. doi:10.1016/b978-0-323-02752-6.50047-x

View All Services

Provided by

Browse

Plastic Surgery Specialists

Accepted Insurance

Specialties

More Info

GalleryView all (8)

Reviews

Details

People Also Viewed

Plastic Surgery Specialists