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Ask Dr. Rich - Houston Plastic Surgeon

Will I get bruises from my Radiesse or Botox treatment? Is there anything that can be done to prevent bruising or make it go away?

Not all patients bruise following facial injections, and not all patients who have bruised due to these procedures will bruise every time. There is little to be done to prevent or “treat” bruising. However, patients are advised not to use products such as aspirin or ibuprofen prior to such treatments, since these medications may increase bleeding. The use of cold packs following injections also helps with swelling and potential bruising, and patients may take arnica, a natural herbal supplement known to help with bruising, following their injections.

What’s the best way to find a qualified plastic surgeon?

When choosing a plastic surgeon, it is important to find someone you trust. At Bayview Plastic Surgery, we always advise callers to check out the credentials of any doctor they visit. A good place to start is the American Board of Plastic Surgery Website: www.abplsurg.org. Here, you can search for a certified surgeon by name or location. You may also search for a physician at the Texas Medical Board Website:http://reg.tmb.state.tx.us/OnLineVerif/Phys_NoticeVerif.asp or find a surgeon at the American Society of Plastic Surgeons Website: www.plasticsurgery.org.

It is also important to look at the facilities the physician will be using for any procedure. At Bayview Plastic Surgery, we have our own fully accredited surgical center on-site. Click here to learn more about this accreditation. I also have privileges at Clear Lake Regional Hospital. Make sure the physician has privileges at a local hospital, especially if he or she operates at an in-office surgical center.

Once you have done your research on a surgeon, make a list of questions to ask during a consultation. Such questions may include how long the physician has been in practice and how often he or she performs the procedure you are seeking. Beyond ensuring their qualifications, be sure you are comfortable with the surgeon and trusting of his or her judgment.

2011 Silver Elite on RealSelf.com Dr. Rich contributes her expert opinions on RealSelf.

Q & A with Donna Rich, MD:

How Can my Breast Asymmetry Be Fixed?

The surgical procedure used to correct your asymmetrical breasts depends on whether or not you like the size of your right or left breast. If you like the larger right breast, then the right breast needs a small lift and the left, and implant. If the left breast is the size you want to be, then I would do a lift or Mastopexy and a small reduction on the right. If you would like to go larger, then lift and add implants to the right and augment the left as well. This will improve your asymmetry, but anytime you treat the breasts differently, you never achieve complete symmetry.

Will I Ever Get Rid of the Pooch with Exercise or is a Tummy Tuck Necessary?

Based on your photographs, I would maximize your diet and exercise regimen. If you still have a “pooch,” a mini-abdominoplasty might be the answer with a smaller scar and upper-abdomen liposuction.

Can I Increase the Size of my Existing Saline Breast Implants?

I have had Saline implants for about 4 to 5 years now. I had a baby about 3 months ago. I don’t know why but it feels like my breasts have gotten smaller. I did breast feed for about 2 weeks only and I really don’t know what is going on. Also my weight is still the same as it was before I got pregnant. I want to make my breasts bigger but I just don’t want to go under again at least not now. Is it possible to just add more saline to my existing implants?

I’m thinking about liposuction but I need more info. about the recovery. How much time is usually enough for liposuction recovery? Do most people see days, weeks or months of downtime after lipo?

Recovery from liposuction generally takes 3 to 5 days before the patient is back to work without heavy lifting. Recovery also depends on which areas and how many areas were treated. The best advice is to find a certified plastic surgeon and to discuss your concerns with him or her during your consultation visit. Your chosen surgeon should be able to give you are more precise idea of how long your potential recovery will be.

How Much Does Liposuction Cost?

The cost of liposuction depends on how many areas are to be liposuctioned and how long the procedure will take. The price also depends on whether or not you are having general anesthesia or local anesthesia alone. When considering liposuction, price should not be the overriding factor. Do your research. Find a reputable, certified surgeon and know the procedure you are requesting — for instance the benefits of general anesthesia versus using only a local.

View all answers from Donna Rich, MD on RealSelf.com

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