Which Dermal Fillers Last the Longest?
Dermal fillers are a popular way to restore volume, smooth fine lines, and enhance facial contours without surgery. With so many options available, one of the most common questions we hear at Aqua Plastic Surgery in Jupiter is “Which filler lasts the longest?” While longevity varies based on the type of filler, treatment area, and individual metabolism, some options provide longer-lasting results than others. In this blog, our aesthetic team breaks down the most vital information.
Hyaluronic Acid Fillers: Natural and Versatile
Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers are among the most used injectables because they are biocompatible, reversible, and provide natural-looking results.
- JUVÉDERM® Injectable Gel – Depending on the formula used, JUVÉDERM fillers can last six months to two years. JUVÉDERM VOLUMA® XC, designed for cheek augmentation, has one of the longest durations at up to two years.
- Restylane® – Like JUVÉDERM, Restylane offers a range of formulations. Restylane-L lasts about six to nine months, while Restylane Lyft can provide results for up to a year or more in areas like the cheeks.
- Belotero Balance® – This lightweight filler is ideal for fine lines and lasts six to twelve months, making it a good choice for delicate areas like under the eyes.
Radiesse: Stimulating Collagen for Longer Results
Radiesse® is made from calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) microspheres, providing immediate volume and stimulating collagen production. This means results can last 12 to 18 months, sometimes longer as the body naturally produces more collagen.
Sculptra: Gradual Volume with Long-Lasting Effects
Unlike traditional fillers, Sculptra® works by stimulating collagen production rather than simply adding volume. This means results take longer to appear but can last up to two years. Sculptra is often used for areas that require gradual, natural-looking enhancement, such as the cheeks and temples.
Neuromodulators: Reducing Wrinkles, Not Adding Volume
While not technically fillers, neuromodulators like BOTOX Cosmetic and Dysport are often included in aesthetic treatments to relax wrinkles. These injectables generally last three to four months before requiring a touch-up.
Which Filler Is Right for You?
The best filler for you depends on your aesthetic goals, treatment area, and how long you want the results to last. If you prefer a temporary option, hyaluronic acid fillers may be ideal. If you’re looking for a longer-term solution, Sculptra or Radiesse may be better choices.
The good news is that Aqua Plastic Surgery offers a full range of dermal fillers to help you achieve a refreshed, youthful appearance. If you’re interested in learning more about which filler is right for you, schedule a consultation with our knowledgeable team to achieve fantastic results or call our Jupiter office at (561) 776-2830.
What Is the Right Age to Have Breast Augmentation?
Deciding to have breast augmentation is a personal choice, and age can play a significant role in the decision. While some women seek the procedure in early adulthood to enhance their natural shape, others wait until after pregnancy or later in life to restore volume and firmness. At Aqua Plastic Surgery in Jupiter, FL, we help patients determine the best timing for their unique goals, ensuring beautiful, natural-looking results.
What Are the Age Requirements?
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has established age guidelines for breast implants. Patients must be at least 18 years old to receive saline implants and 22 years old for silicone implants. These guidelines are based on physical development and the safety profile of each type of implant. However, beyond these minimum age requirements, other considerations come into play when deciding the right surgery time.
Physical Maturity Matters
Breast development varies among individuals, with most women experiencing full maturity in their late teens and others continuing to see changes into their early twenties. Undergoing breast augmentation before development is complete may lead to dissatisfaction with results over time. Therefore, patients should ensure that their breasts have fully matured before considering surgery.
Personal and Lifestyle Considerations
- Early 20s to 30s – Many women in this age group choose breast augmentation to enhance their natural shape, correct asymmetry, or achieve a more proportional figure. These patients often benefit from having youthful skin with good elasticity, leading to smooth, natural-looking results.
- After Pregnancy and Breastfeeding – Women who have had children may notice volume loss or sagging in their breasts. Many choose to undergo augmentation alone or as part of a mommy makeover to restore their pre-pregnancy shape.
- 40s and Beyond – Breast augmentation can still provide excellent results later in life. Some women in this age range seek implants to address age-related changes or to replace older implants.
Choosing the Right Time for You
Ultimately, the best time for breast augmentation is when you feel ready and have considered all aspects, including your long-term goals, lifestyle, and health. It’s important to consult with a plastic surgeon who can help determine the right approach for your needs.
If you’re considering breast augmentation and want expert guidance, the team at Aqua Plastic Surgery is here to help. Our outstanding breast augmentation surgeons use advanced techniques to fulfill your cosmetic goals at any age. To schedule a consultation and discuss your options with one of these surgeons, please call our office in Jupiter, Fla., at (561) 776-2830.
How Aging Affects the Appearance of Your Eyes
As we age, the eyes often show the first signs of the passage of time. At Aqua Plastic Surgery in South Florida, we understand how changes in your eye appearance can affect your overall facial aesthetics and confidence. Below, our team of plastic surgeons and aesthetic specialists explore the common signs of aging around the eyes and discuss the cosmetic improvements available at our practice.
Common Signs of Aging Around the Eyes
- Fine lines and wrinkles: Often referred to as "crow’s feet," these fine lines fan out from the corners of the eyes due to repeated facial expressions, like smiling and squinting, and are compounded over the years.
- Under-eye bags and puffiness: Fluid retention, fat displacement, and weakening of the under-eye muscles and tissue often lead to puffiness and bags, which can make one appear tired even after a full night’s sleep.
- Droopy eyelids: As skin loses elasticity with age, excess skin can accumulate on the upper eyelids, causing them to droop. This not only affects aesthetics but can also impair vision.
- Dark circles: Changes in skin thickness and loss of fat and collagen can make the reddish-blue blood vessels under your eyes more apparent, creating a tired look.
Cosmetic Improvements at Aqua Plastic Surgery
At Aqua Plastic Surgery, we offer a variety of treatments to rejuvenate the eye area, making you look more rested and youthful. In many cases, our best solution is blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery. This procedure can be performed on the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both, depending on the patient's needs.
Blepharoplasty is designed to remove or reposition excess tissue around the eyes. For the upper eyelids, it can eliminate the droop that may impair vision and restore a more open, alert appearance to the eyes. For the lower eyelids, it can reduce the appearance of under-eye bags and tighten the skin to diminish puffiness and shadows.
Beyond blepharoplasty, we offer non-surgical treatments such as dermal fillers to restore volume and reduce the appearance of dark circles or laser treatments to smooth out fine lines and rejuvenate the skin around the eyes.
Why Choose Aqua Plastic Surgery for Eye Rejuvenation?
At Aqua Plastic Surgery, we are committed to providing personalized care and state-of-the-art cosmetic solutions. Our experienced surgeons use the latest techniques to ensure minimal downtime and natural-looking results. We understand that each patient’s goals and conditions are unique, and we tailor our treatments to match your specific needs.
Ready to rejuvenate your eyes and refresh your look? Book a consultation in Jupiter, FL, today to learn more about your options.
What Kind of Scarring Can I Expect from Tummy Tuck?
Tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is not just about aesthetic enhancement — it's about transforming how you feel in and about your body. While the prospect of scarring can be a concern for many, it's important to understand that any scarring from the surgery is a part of the healing process. In this blog, the team at Aqua Plastic Surgery explores the nature of scarring from tummy tuck, how our surgical techniques are designed to minimize scars, and the steps you can take to ensure everything heals as discreetly as possible.
Location and Appearance of Scars
Tummy tuck involves removing excess skin and fat and tightening the abdominal muscles. It can be a stand-alone procedure or part of a mommy makeover. The main incision is typically made just above the pubic area, running horizontally between the hip bones. This strategic placement means the scar can easily be hidden beneath underwear or a bikini bottom.
For some, a second incision around the navel may be necessary to achieve optimal reshaping of the abdomen. This scar is usually well-concealed within the contours of the belly button.
Healing Process from a Tummy Tuck
The appearance of scars after tummy tuck varies among individuals but generally passes through several stages. Initially, scars can appear red and slightly raised but gradually mature over time. With proper care, they typically flatten and lighten within a year or two following surgery.
Minimizing Scarring
Our skilled surgeons at Aqua Plastic Surgery are experts in employing advanced suturing techniques that minimize scarring. Additionally, our team provides comprehensive aftercare instructions to aid the healing process, including:
- Proper Wound Care: Keeping the incision clean and dry is paramount.
- Scar Minimization Treatments: We recommend specific creams and ointments that promote scar healing.
- Sun Protection: Shielding your scars from the sun helps prevent them from darkening.
Embracing Your New Contours
While a scar is a natural part of the healing process, it is also a sign of the incredible transformation your body has undergone. Most patients find that the aesthetic benefits of a flatter, more toned abdomen far outweigh the presence of a scar. Over time, the scar becomes a subtle reminder of the journey towards a more confident self.
Choose Aqua Plastic Surgery for Abdominoplasty
At Aqua Plastic Surgery, we understand the importance of both the physical and emotional outcomes of tummy tuck. Our team of top surgeons in southern Florida is dedicated to providing exceptional care from the initial consultation through recovery, ensuring your experience is as comfortable and rewarding as possible.
If you are interested in experiencing the benefits of tummy tuck, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Use our contact form to learn more or call us in Jupiter at (561) 776-2830.
Timing Your Breast Lift for Lasting Results
Deciding to undergo breast lift can be a significant and positive step toward reclaiming your body's youthful silhouette and boosting your self-confidence. At Aqua Plastic Surgery, we understand that the timing of your breast lift is just as crucial as the procedure itself for achieving and maintaining optimal results. In this blog, we’ll discuss the best timing for breast lift and how strategic planning can enhance the longevity of your results.
Understanding Breast Lift Surgery
Breast lift, or mastopexy, is a surgical procedure designed to raise and firm the breasts by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue to reshape and support the new breast contour. It’s an effective solution for addressing sagging breasts, which can occur due to various factors such as:
- Aging
- Pregnancy
- Breastfeeding
- Weight fluctuations
- Gravity
Optimal Timing for Breast Lift
Post-Pregnancy
Many women consider breast lift after having children. Pregnancy and breastfeeding can stretch the skin and ligaments of the breasts, leading to a loss of elasticity and firmness. If you are planning breast lift, it’s best to wait until after you’re done having children and breastfeeding to prevent subsequent pregnancies from impacting the results of the surgery.
Weight Stability
Achieving and maintaining a stable weight is crucial before undergoing breast lift. Weight fluctuations can significantly affect the shape and size of your breasts. For lasting results, it’s recommended to undergo breast lift once you have reached your target weight and have kept it stable for at least six months.
Age Considerations
There is no "right" age for breast lift, but it’s important to consider your skin’s elasticity, which can diminish with age. Younger skin tends to have a better natural healing capacity and may recover more effectively from surgery. However, patients of any age can enjoy the benefits of breast lift, provided they are in good health and have realistic expectations about the outcomes.
Preparing for Long-Lasting Results
- Follow Pre- and Post-Operative Instructions: At Aqua Plastic Surgery, our team will provide detailed guidelines on how to prepare for your surgery and manage recovery. Following these instructions closely can significantly impact the quality and longevity of your breast lift results.
- Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: A healthy diet and regular exercise can help maintain your overall health and enhance the longevity of your surgery results.
- Attend Regular Check-Ups: Keep in touch with your plastic surgeon and schedule regular check-ups to ensure that your healing process is on track and your results are maintained.
Why Choose Aqua Plastic Surgery?
Choosing the right time for your breast lift and the right team to perform it are crucial decisions. At Aqua Plastic Surgery, we pride ourselves on our personalized approach, skilled surgeons, and commitment to providing natural-looking, long-lasting results. Our team is here to guide you through every step of the process, from the initial consultation to post-surgery care.
Use our contact form to schedule a consultation or call Aqua Plastic Surgery today at our Jupiter location, (561) 776-2830.
When Is a Mini-Lift a Better Option Than Facelift?
Choosing between a mini-lift and a facelift can be confusing to patients who are unfamiliar with plastic surgery. However, understanding the specific offerings of each facial rejuvenation procedure can make the decision much easier. While both techniques address signs of aging and improve facial appearance, they do have notable differences. Below, the team at Aqua Plastic Surgery breaks down the core components.
Differences Between Mini-Lift and Facelift
A mini-lift, also known as a mini facelift or a weekend facelift, is a less invasive surgical procedure compared to a traditional facelift. It focuses on lifting and tightening the lower portion of the face, including the jawline and jowls. Mini-lift can reduce sagging and create a more youthful appearance.
In contrast, a facelift, also known as rhytidectomy, is a more extensive procedure targeting multiple face areas, including the midface, lower face, and neck. It it the more successful approach for addressing moderate to severe signs of aging.
A mini-lift involves smaller incisions and a shorter recovery time than a facelift, as the Mayo Clinic explains. It is an attractive option for individuals with mild to moderate sagging or those seeking less downtime.
While a mini-lift can improve the lower face, it may not address midface or neck region concerns as effectively as a facelift.
Additionally, the results of a mini-lift may not be as long-lasting as those achieved with a facelift, making it ideal for individuals looking for subtle enhancements or those not ready for a more extensive surgical procedure.
When Is a Mini-Lift A Better Option Than a Facelift?
A mini-lift may be a better option for individuals who have minimal signs of aging or those looking for targeted improvement in specific areas of the face. It can also be suitable for younger patients who are not yet ready for a full facelift but want to address early signs of aging.
Furthermore, people with busy lifestyles or limited time for recovery may find a mini-lift a more convenient option. It offers shorter downtime and a quicker recovery period. However, many patients with more significant aging may need the full facelift regardless of the recovery time.
Book Your Mini-Lift Appointment in Florida
Mini-lifts and facelifts offer effective solutions for facial rejuvenation. However, the best option depends on individual goals, concerns, medical history, and preferences. If you want to determine which procedure is right for you, you may use this contact form to reach Aqua Plastic Surgery.
Our expert plastic surgeons in Jupiter, FL can assess your unique needs and provide personalized recommendations.
How Liposuction Helps After You Reach Your Goal Weight
Reaching your goal weight is a significant achievement that usually requires dedication, hard work, and perseverance. However, even after reaching your desired weight, you may still have areas of stubborn fat. If so, you might benefit from liposuction. This surgery can help you achieve your ideal body contour by targeting and removing stubborn fat pockets from your problem areas.
This allows the plastic surgeon to sculpt and shape your body for a more toned appearance. In this sblog, our team of plastic surgeons give you an overview of liposuction and how it enables you to achieve your ideal body shape. Read more
How to Tell If You Have a Ruptured Breast Implant
Breast augmentation surgery has become increasingly common to enhance appearance and self-confidence. However, like any surgical procedure, breast implants carry a risk of complications. The most common risk is experiencing a ruptured implant. In such cases, your surgeon may suggest breast implant removal (explant) to fix the issue.
Although a ruptured implant is relatively rare, you should know the signs and symptoms that may indicate a rupture. Recognizing these signs early on can ensure prompt medical attention and appropriate treatment. In this blog, Dr. David Rankin of Aqua Plastic Surgery, one of the nation’s foremost experts in breast explant surgery, will guide you about the signs of ruptured implants and how to fix them.
Ruptured Breast Implant: Signs and Symptoms
Depending on the kind of implant and the severity of the rupture, several signs and symptoms may indicate a breast implant rupture, according to the Mayo Clinic. The size, shape, or feel of your breasts may occasionally alter, either suddenly or gradually.
This may include asymmetry between the breasts, a noticeable decrease in breast size, or a change in the appearance of the breast contour.
Other common symptoms may include pain, tenderness, swelling, or redness in the breast area. Moreover, some individuals may notice lumps or abnormalities in the breast tissue or even experience symptoms such as fever or fatigue.
Seeking Help Following Implant Rupture
If you suspect that you may have a ruptured breast implant, you should seek medical attention immediately. Schedule an appointment with a reputable plastic surgeon or healthcare provider who can evaluate your symptoms and perform a thorough examination.
Your healthcare provider may recommend imaging tests such as an ultrasound, MRI, or mammogram to confirm the diagnosis. Then, he or she might assess the extent of the rupture.
Depending on the severity of the rupture and your circumstances, treatment options may include implant removal and replacement surgery or other corrective procedures to address any complications associated with the rupture.
Book Your Breast Explant Appointment in Florida
If you're experiencing any signs or symptoms of a ruptured breast implant, don't hesitate to seek medical attention. Dr. Rankin can help you address all your concerns and provide personalized treatment options tailored to your needs. Contact us today in Jupiter (561-776-2830) to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward restoring the appearance and health of your breasts with breast explant surgery.
How Your Nutrition Affects Your Recovery and Results After Plastic Surgery
The outcome of your plastic surgery relies on many factors. First and foremost, your plastic surgeon's experience and skills are crucial to your safety and results. Your lifestyle choices can also positively or negatively impact your recovery and final appearance. Your diet, hydration, vitamin intake, and exercise routine are a vital part of the plastic surgery process. At Aqua Plastic Surgery, our plastic surgeons and staff educate patients on preoperative and postoperative health and nutrition for an easier recovery and the best outcome.
Good Health and Nutrition Improve Surgical Outcomes
A healthy patient typically has an easier and faster healing time than one who does not focus on nutrition, hydration, and exercise. Whether you have a facelift or a tummy tuck, regular exercise, a nutrient-dense diet, and avoiding smoking help your body focus on healing. Good nutrition balances your energy and distributes essential nutrients through your body.
Generally, plastic surgeons and medical professionals recommend eating foods that grow on a plant, not in a plant, such as whole foods, instead of highly processed foods. A plant-based, anti-inflammatory diet, such as the Mediterranean diet, helps prime your body for healing so you can feel better faster. Remember, food is a type of medicine in and of itself.
Hydration can improve skin healing. Healthy, hydrated skin tends to recover faster than dry, tight skin.
Focus on Whole Foods
Whole foods can lower inflammation and help maintain blood glucose (sugar) levels. During recovery, focus on colorful fruits and vegetables and other nutrient-dense foods, such as nuts, beans, fish, eggs, and whole grains. These whole foods help you heal and ensure long-lasting health and results.
Protein is also essential to the healing process. Studies indicate that increasing calories and protein aids the natural wound-healing process. Protein aids tissue and muscle repair and helps your body fight infections. You can increase your protein intake by eating lean fish, eggs, seeds, quinoa, nuts, and meats.
Vitamins that Aid Healing or Increase Risks
Some vitamins, such as vitamin E, turmeric, and fish oils, can interfere with surgery and increase bleeding risks. Research shows omega 3s can increase bleeding time, so it's recommended you stop taking these supplements at least a week before surgery. Discuss your vitamins and supplements during your consultation at Aqua Plastic Surgery to lower your risk of complications.
Other vitamins, such as vitamin C and zinc, can help if taken in the weeks before surgery and after your procedure. This combination can optimize collagen production, a crucial part of natural healing. Other nutrients can lower inflammation and help your recovery by preventing infection, including vitamins A and D. Vitamins A and C fill your body with antioxidants to fight the effects of free radicals, which can prolong healing and cause tissue damage.
These vitamins before and after plastic surgery can help your recovery. However, please don't take any vitamins without discussing them with our plastic surgeons first.
If you're concerned about your nutrition during recovery, take some time to prepare and freeze some well-balanced meals before your procedure and stock your pantry with healthy snacks, such as nuts and fresh fruits.
Schedule a consultation at Aqua Plastic Surgery to learn more about your options for enhancing your face and body. Contact our Jupiter, FL, office at (561) 776-2830.
How Long Does Breast Implant Removal Take?
Your timeline for breast explant, or breast implant removal surgery, depends on the reason for the procedure and your surgeon's availability. Women tend to replace their breast implants every 10 to 15 years, but some may need them removed or replaced due to an implant rupture or a hardening of the scar tissue around the implant (capsular contracture). Other women may desire to remove them for personal reasons or because they suspect they have symptoms of breast implant illness. Dr. David Rankin at Aqua Plastic Surgery in Jupiter, Fla., offers breast explant surgery and have helped many women remove or replace their breast implants.
Time From Your Consultation to Your Procedure
Breast explant starts with a consultation with one of our experienced plastic surgeons who specializes in breast implant removal to discuss your concerns and goals for your breasts. Once you decide to move forward with the procedure, we can schedule your surgery. The timeline between these appointments varies between weeks or months depending on the availability of scheduling, time of year, and your own scheduling conflicts, such as a wedding or graduation.
Surgeons in high demand tend to have full schedules but are well worth the wait. However, you may have more opportunities in winter when surgeons may have more availability.
The Breast Implant Removal Procedure
Breast explant requires general anesthesia and may take up to two to three hours, depending on the patient and their breast concerns. The procedure starts with incisions made under the breast in the natural crease (inframammary fold) or around the darker pigment of the nipple (areola). Dr. Rankin then removes the breast implant and may also remove scar tissue.
Some patients have a simultaneous breast lift to remove excess skin and reshape the glandular tissue for firmer, perkier breasts. The procedure may take longer if you combine breast implant removal with breast lift.
Recovery Timeline for Breast Implant Removal
Initial recovery after breast implant removal is about two weeks, during which time you may need to limit driving and take 10 to 14 days off work. You must avoid strenuous activities and lifting heavy objects for up to six weeks or longer to avoid putting stress on your chest and jeopardizing your results.
Women seeking breast implant removal to alleviate breast implant illness may experience improved symptoms around three months after surgery. However, breast implant illness is not considered a medical diagnosis and is poorly understood with limited research. The cluster of symptoms associated with the unique condition may present differently in each patient, such as cognitive symptoms, joint pain, anxiety, and fatigue.
Capsular contracture symptoms, such as breast pain or tightening sensations, should improve shortly after breast implant removal. However, this may be masked by soreness and swelling from the breast explant surgery.
If you're interested in breast implant removal, contact our experienced plastic surgeon at Aqua Plastic Surgery at our Jupiter, Florida, location at (561) 776-2830.