Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck Surgery) Overview

Tummy tuck surgery, clinically called abdominoplasty, is a procedure performed by a cosmetic surgeon to reduce loose skin and excess fats in the abdominal area to restore a firmer and flatter tummy. In some cases, the procedure may also involve tightening of underlying weak abdominal muscles. The surgeon will typically recommend the procedure in cases where the abdominal fat does not respond to diet or exercise, and skin elasticity in the area is also weak.

During the initial consultation process, the surgeon will evaluate the patient’s overall anatomy, general health condition, and assess their personal aesthetic goals. In accordance with this evaluation, a surgical plan will be formulated for abdominoplasty. Dr. Eugene Kim is an experienced plastic surgeon providing tummy tuck and various other surgical and non-surgical procedures to patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, West Hollywood, CA, and surrounding areas.

Suitable Candidates

A fantastic candidate would ideally have moderate and stable body weight, but excess fat deposits in the abdomen. A reasonable amount of skin elasticity in the abdominal area would produce more effective results. The candidate should not be suffering from a health condition that could pose obstruction during surgery or recovery. Candidates should be non-smokers or willing to quit smoking several weeks prior to the procedure.

Pre-op Preparation

The patient may be required to undergo a few medical tests, based on the cosmetic surgeon’s evaluation. The surgical plan will be made in close consultation with the patient. In some cases, a partial tummy tuck may suffice, while in some others a full tummy tuck may be required along with an additional procedure such as liposuction. Patient’s current medication plan may have to be altered in consultation with the physician prior to the surgery.

Procedure

Tummy tuck surgery may be performed under general anesthesia or IV sedation and local anesthesia in some cases. As an experienced plastic surgeon, Dr. Kim will assess whether the patient is required to stay overnight following the procedure, but in most cases the surgery can be performed on an outpatient basis. Patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, West Hollywood, CA, and nearby locations have an opportunity to receive this surgery from Dr. Kim.

The surgeon will begin the procedure by placing an incision horizontally between the pubic hairline and the navel. The length and shape of the incision can differ according to the amount of fat and skin to be removed. If the abdominal muscles are loose or separated, the surgeon will repair and tighten them through the incision. Excess skin and fat will be removed, and the surgeon will suture the muscles to produce a firmer abdominal contour.

A second incision around the belly button may be necessary if it is important to reduce excess fat deposits from the upper abdominal area. Once the excision is completed, the surgeon will close the incisions with sutures or skin tape.

Recovery

It will usually take about two weeks for the patient to return to work or resume their normal activities at home. Heavy lifting of weights and vigorous exercises should be avoided for about four to six weeks to allow the healing to take place properly.

Click here see more plastic surgery procedures and treatments performed by Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Eugene Kim on patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Santa Monica and surrounding areas or call 310-271-6996 to schedule a consultation.

Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) Cost

Eyes are a sensitive part of the body, and any aesthetic surgical procedure involving the eyes or eyelids should only be performed by a trained and experienced cosmetic surgeon. Health and safety should be the overriding priorities, particularly in elective procedures. The surgeon should adopt a conservative approach in order to provide predictable and sustainable outcomes.

During the initial consultation, the surgeon will discuss various aspects of the procedure, including its estimated monetary costs. The surgeon’s goal is to help the patient make an informed choice. Dr. Eugene Kim is a dedicated plastic surgeon providing blepharoplasty and other procedures to patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, West Hollywood, CA, and surrounding communities.

Factors that Influence the Price Tag

Eyelid surgery financial considerations and dollar amounts will usually differ from one practice to another, and in some cases, even from one patient to another, depending on several factors.

Practice Location

The living cost index will typically vary from one place to another, and it can impact the average cost of most types of goods and services, including cosmetic surgery services. For instance, the price tag for eyelid surgery in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, West Hollywood, CA, and nearby locations may not be the same as the financial impact in say, Cleveland, OH.

Fee Charged by the Surgeon

The fee charged by the cosmetic surgeon can differ according to their education, experience and reputation in the field of eyelid surgery. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), patients should choose the right surgeon for their needs, and factors such as the surgeon’s fee should only be secondary to such choices.

Surgical Facility and Anesthesia Costs

If the blepharoplasty surgery is performed at an advanced surgical facility equipped with cutting edge technology and providing personalized care and services, the price on the menu may be slightly higher than that of an average operating room. If the procedure is performed under general anesthesia, the fee of the anesthesiologist might vary as per their qualifications and experience.

Average Price of this Procedure

According to the data released by the ASPS for 2013, the average dollar figure of eyelid surgery in the US was $2,818. However, the ASPS clarified that this cost did not include anesthesia fees, operating room prices, and other related expenses. The actual cost can vary depending on whether only upper eyelid or lower eyelid procedure is performed, and how complex is the particular case. In some cases, both upper and lower eyelid surgeries may be performed together, which will affect your bank account more.

The overall price tag of procedure may vary from $5,000 to $7,000 in case of lower blepharoplasty, and $4,000 to $6,000 in case of upper blepharoplasty. The final receipt of the combined surgery may be in the range of $7,000 to $10,000.

Insurance and Financing

If blepharoplasty is performed to correct some functional concerns, such as obstructed vision due to sagging eyelids, the dollar figure may be partially or fully covered under the patient’s health plan. In other cases, patients will mostly have multiple financing avenues to choose from. The surgeon’s office may be able to provide guidance and assistance with regard to insurance and financing.

Click here see more plastic surgery procedures and treatments performed by Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Eugene Kim on patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Santa Monica and surrounding areas or call 310-271-6996 to schedule a consultation.

What are Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) Before and After Photos?

Eyelid surgery, clinically called blepharoplasty, is a procedure designed to enhance the appearance of eyes and restore a rejuvenated look. During the initial consultation, the cosmetic surgeon will explain various aspects of the surgery to help the patient make an informed decision.

The surgeon will usually make use of blepharoplasty before and after photographs to ensure that the patient understands how the procedure will impact their appearance. Dr. Eugene Kim is a leading plastic surgeon providing eyelid surgery and other procedures to patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, West Hollywood, CA, and nearby locations.

What are Eyelid Surgery Before and After Images?   

Before and after pictures in case of blepharoplasty refer to a pair or group of images belonging to an earlier patient who has received the same procedure with successful outcome. The images include pictures taken before the surgery and after the surgery at a time when the swelling has disappeared and full effects are visible.

The cosmetic surgeon will take the pictures with the patient’s consent and present them before other patients in a discreet manner. The surgeon’s only goal is to educate new patients about various aspects of the procedure, and provide them with a visual aid to understand the results clearly.

Advantages

When a new patient chooses to undergo blepharoplasty, they may only have a vague notion of how the procedure may improve their appearance of eyes and face, and whether it would meet their personal aesthetic needs and goals. In some cases, the surgeon may recommend eyelid surgery in combination with brow lift or another facial procedure for better outcomes. Lower or upper eyelid surgery or both may have to be performed, depending on the patient’s needs.

In all such cases, it can be confusing for the patient to make the right choices. This is where the surgeon may utilize eyelid surgery before and after photos to help the patient make the best decisions. As an experienced plastic surgeon, Dr. Kim makes use of before and after photos for his patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, West Hollywood, CA, and surrounding areas.

Knowing What to Expect

In a procedure such as blepharoplasty, most satisfactory outcomes can be achieved when the patient has formed realistic expectations. If the patient has misplaced expectations and wrong assumptions about the procedure, it can result in disappointment even if the surgery may have actually been performed very successfully.

Such risks of a misunderstanding can be mitigated when the surgeon uses blepharoplasty before and after photos. The patient will know clearly what to expect and what not to expect from the procedure.

Online Images  

The surgeon has the option to provide digitized versions of before and after images on their practice website. New patients can simply visit the “Photo Gallery” section of the site and review the pictures. Patients can have a fair idea about what the procedure can or cannot do for them even before they have actually visited the surgeon’s office for a personal consultation.

Click here see more plastic surgery procedures and treatments performed by Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Eugene Kim on patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Santa Monica and surrounding areas or call 310-271-6996 to schedule a consultation.

Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery) Overview

Blepharoplasty subtly improves the look of your eyes. Surgery can be performed on both lids; however, a consultation with a certified plastic surgeon can determine whether you need both lids done or just one of them. 206,509 million eyelid surgeries were done in 2014. The procedure involves either removing skin or fat from the eyelids.  The surgery is performed by creating an incision on either of the lids.

Why Blepharoplasty?

Excess fat in the upper eyelid can give it a droopy appearance which can make your eyes look swollen. Excess skin in the lower eye lids increases the appearance of wrinkles and crows feet.  Aging also reduces the suppleness of skin around eyes which causes sagging and under eye bags.

Sometimes excess skin or fat is just part of genetics and may run in your family. All these cases can be corrected using cosmetic Blepharoplasty. In case excessive skin or fat is blocking your vision or sight and if you are unable to wear contacts due to thick lower eye lids, then Blepharoplasty is needed for medical reasons.

Who should do it?

A certified doctor like Dr. Eugene Kim M.D, who is a double board certified Beverly Hills plastic surgeon, and practices in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, and west Hollywood in CA can help you determine after a thorough physical examination whether you are an ideal candidate for Blepharoplasty or not.

Dr. Kim can also help you understand the options in cosmetic eyelid surgery in case you don’t need it for any medical reasons. It is however recommended that you do a lot of your own research as well. This research is not only to increase your awareness about the procedure but also raise questions with the doctor during your consultation.

The procedure

You must follow the doctor’s advice completely before and after the procedure. It can impact the way surgery turns out for you. The surgery can be performed using local anesthesia as well as general anesthesia…something your doctor will determine for you. You must disclose your medical history to your doctor as sometimes medications for two different conditions aren’t compatible and can cause unnecessary complications.

Recovery

For the first 48 hours, you will feel tenderness and redness of the skin around your eyes. This can be combated with cold compresses. Light walks have proven to fasten the recovery process. In case you feel excess pain or itchiness, you must contact your doctor immediately and refuse the impulse to rub the eye surface.

Possible complications of eyelid surgery

• Excessive dry eyes
• Numbness of eyelids
• Visible eye scarring
• Excess removal of skin or fat
• Not enough skin or fat removed

Dryness is temporary and can be reduced by using eye drops and you should consult your surgeon regarding any complication you feel post surgery. If you are Asian and opting for a double lid eye surgery, you must be mindful of it…Some people like the western shape of the eyes post surgery, while others find it offensive.

Click here see more plastic surgery procedures and treatments performed by Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Eugene Kim on patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Santa Monica and surrounding areas or call 310-271-6996 to schedule a consultation.

American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) Research

In USA, cosmetic and plastic surgery is a 10 billion dollar industry. American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery – ASAPS’ recently released annual report shows that Americans spent 12 Billion dollars on cosmetic surgical and non surgical procedures in 2014. Almost similar amount of money was spent in plastic surgery in 2013 as well.

Cosmetic and Plastic procedural choices made by Americans in 2014

Statistically speaking, there is a rise of 3% in overall cosmetic and plastic procedures done in 2014. The most intriguing revelation of the report was the increase in number of men seeking cosmetic and plastic surgery options both surgical and non surgical ones. It seems men are finally catching up. The statistics for men undergoing plastic surgery are:

• Hyaluronic Acid (up 94%)
• Botulinum Toxin (up 84%)
• intense pulsed light (up 44%).
• Facelift (up 44%)
• Non Surgical skin tightening (up 37%)
• Blepharoplasty (up 34%)
• Male breast reduction (up 33%)

This data shows an increase of 43% in the number of men undergoing cosmetic surgical and non surgical procedures, over a period of 5 years. Other popular choices of cosmetic surgery in 2014 were pectoral implants, arm fat lifting, hair transplant and tummy tuck  Procedures that have shown an increase in demand on a year to year basis are buttock augmentation (up 86%), non-surgical fat reduction (up 42%) and labiaplasty (up 49%).

Popular 5 surgical procedures done by men and women in 2014 are:

• Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) (165,714 procedures)
• Liposuction (342,494 procedures)
• Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) (164,021 procedures)
• Breast enhancement (286,694 procedures)
• Nose Surgery (Rhinoplasty) (145,909 procedures)

Popular 5 non surgical procedures done by men and women in 2014 are:

• Chemical peel (484,053 procedures)
• Botox (3,588,218 procedures)
• Hair Removal (828,480 procedures)
• Hyaluronic Acid (1,696,621 procedures)
• Microdermabrasion (417,034 procedures)

American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery collects this data along with independent research firms. It is collected in form of questionnaires that are filled up by hospitals and doctors.

Social Impact of Plastic Surgery

Plastic surgery draws a lot of criticism for promoting unhealthy body image and insecurity amongst young men and women. However, not many people highlight the use of reconstructive procedures that are widely used by burn victims and accident victims. Breast cancer survivors have been benefited immensely as 102,200 breast reconstruction surgeries were done in 2014.  The ‘Breast Reconstruction Awareness Campaign’ was started by ASPS in 2012 to rehabilitate cancer survivors.

Dr. Eugene Kim M.D is a double board certified Beverly Hills plastic surgeon, who practices in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, and west Hollywood in CA, thinks that people in general need to broaden their views on plastic surgery instead of stigmatizing it. He thinks that before picking a cosmetic surgery procedure, it is imperative that you know everything about it. He says that people need to sensitize themselves to the effect plastic surgery can have on an individual’s life.

Click here see more plastic surgery procedures and treatments performed by Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Eugene Kim on patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Santa Monica and surrounding areas or call 310-271-6996 to schedule a consultation.

Aging, sun exposure, hormonal changes, disease and other factors can cause the facial skin to sag, resulting in the appearance of wrinkles, lines, and creases on the face. A cosmetic surgeon may recommend facelift is a long-term solution to this condition, but some patients may not be keen to opt for a surgical treatment for an aesthetic procedure such as facial rejuvenation.

Dr. Eugene Kim is an experienced plastic surgeon who will offer proven and effective non-surgical solutions for facelift to suitable candidates. Dr. Kim receives patients from Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, West Hollywood, CA, and surrounding communities for both surgical and non-surgical aesthetic procedures.

Over the Counter Treatments

A number of anti-wrinkle creams and lotions are available over the counter, which can be a marvelous starting point for individuals with subtle signs of aging. Such facelift creams typically contain moisturizers that are designed to plump-up the facial skin, resulting in fading away of mild wrinkles and lines.

The chemical ingredients of such creams commonly include acetyl hexapeptide and alpha hydroxy acid. A cosmetic surgeon may be able to guide patients about the appropriate choice of creams to suit their skin type.

Botox or Dysport

Botox and Dysport are injectable treatments for facial anti-aging. These injectables are based on botulinum toxin, which is a powerful biological agent that can cause the overactive muscles on the face to become temporarily immobilized. As a result, the wrinkle formation will reduce instantly, and the skin will appear smoother and younger.

Both Botox and Dysport have been approved by the FDA. As an experienced plastic surgeon, Dr. Kim provides these treatments to suitable candidates in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, West Hollywood, CA, and other areas.

Thermage Skin Tightening System

Thermage Skin Tightening system is based on radio frequency energy that is used in a controlled manner to promote fresh collagen production, leading to skin tightening on the face. The unique treatment tip of Thermage equipment delivers targeted thermal heat to the deeper layers of the skin. New collagen is built up, and loose underlying tissue contracts to provide a tighter and firmer facial appearance.

Laser Skin Tightening

One of the most effective non-surgical facelift procedures is performed with laser therapy. The procedure involves a focused exposure of the affected areas of the facial skin to low intensity light beams. The laser energy penetrates into the deeper layers of the skin to trigger collagen production. It also enhances moisture and oxygenation process, firms up the skin, promotes skin repair, and improves skin tone and texture.

Microcurrent Facelift

Microcurrent facelift is one of the most rapidly growing non-surgical cosmetic procedures for the face. Also known as Bio-Ultimate facelift, this technique involves the use of gentle electric currents to stimulate the underlying layers of the skin.

Elastin and collagen production process is promoted, blood circulation is enhanced, and the skin is re-hydrated with this process. The overall result is tightening and firming up of the facial skin and reduction of wrinkles and lines on the face.

Click here see more plastic surgery procedures and treatments performed by Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Eugene Kim on patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Santa Monica and surrounding areas or call 310-271-6996 to schedule a consultation.

A breast lift surgery or mastopexy is done to raise the height of drooping breasts and improve the overall bust size. The procedure is carried out by removing extra skin and tightening the tissue surrounding the breast, which results in the breast developing a firmer feel and better shape. According to statistics provided by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, breast lifts have become quite popular in recent years. There has been a 70 percent increase in the number of mastopexy surgeries, replacing breast implant surgeries.

Why is Mastopexy done?

There are several reasons to why women opt for breast lift surgeries. But, the majority of patients choose it for cosmetic reasons. As women age, the shape of their breasts tend to change losing the firmness and shape that was once present during their youth. These changes are further impacted by factors such as pregnancy, breastfeeding, heredity, gravity, and variations in weight. In some cases, the areolas of the breast become enlarged over time and mastopexy is done to reduce the size.

Who can get a Breast Lift Surgery?

The ideal candidate for mastopexy should be someone who has good general health and maintains their weight. The patient must not be a smoker. Apart from these, the physical appearance of the breasts also indicates if surgery is required or not. The general signs include stretched, flat or pendulous looking breasts, nipples that fall below the crease of the breasts, downward facing areolas or nipples, enlarged areolas, stretched breast skin, and odd sized breasts. Women who are generally unsatisfied with the shape or look of their breasts can also go in for this procedure.

When going in for a consultation, request the cosmetic surgeon to provide you with before and after photos of previously done surgeries. This way you will have a better idea of what the results of the surgery might look like. The before and after photos will also help you assess the surgeon’s level of expertise.

Procedure

A breast lift surgery is generally carried out by an experienced plastic or cosmetic surgeon. It is an outpatient procedure, which means the patient doesn’t necessarily have to stay at the hospital. The recovery process can be managed at home. The surgical technique used depends on factors such as elasticity of the skin, position and size of areolas, the level of sagging, and general size and shape of the breast.

The first phase of the procedure involves administering anesthesia, which can vary between general anesthesia and intravenous sedation. The decision is usually made by the surgeon in charge. The second step involves making the incisions on the breast. There are 3 types of incisions: around the areola, vertical incision, and a combination of vertical and horizontal incisions.

After the respective incisions are made, the surgeon lifts the concealed breast tissue and reshapes it to create firmness and improve the contours. The areola and the nipple are then shifted to a more suitable height and position. In case of enlarged areolas, the skin around the perimeter is surgically removed. Elasticity is then improved by surgically eliminating all the extra skin. After completing the procedure, the skin is tightened by closing the incisions.

Recovery

Recovery involves using a support bra or wearing elastic bandages around the breasts during the healing process. Complete healing generally takes more than a week. Occasionally, a thin tube is positioned temporarily under the skin to drain excess blood and fluids. Talk to your plastic surgeon to know more on how to take care after surgery.

If you feel that you might need a breast lift surgery and happen to live in the areas of Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, or West Hollywood, please feel free to get in touch with Dr. Eugene Kim for a thorough consultation.

Click here see more plastic surgery procedures and treatments performed by Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Eugene Kim on patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Santa Monica and surrounding areas or call 310-271-6996 to schedule a consultation.