Popular Plastic Surgery Procedures for Men
Women are not alone in wanting to turn back the clock, appearance-wise. A recent study found that there has been a 43% increase in the amount of men having cosmetic procedures over the last five years. There are many reasons for this increase, including wanting to keep up with an increasingly competitive job market that often favors youthful candidates. Aside from their career, a lot of men simply wish to look as young as they feel, especially if they put in long hours exercising and watching their diet and wish to further enhance their fit physique. At Aqua Plastic Surgery, Dr. David Rankin has performed many plastic surgery procedures for his male clientele, and notices that the ones listed here are the most popular.
Botox
Botox is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures for men, who use this treatment as a nonsurgical option for facelift surgery to smooth out facial wrinkles. In fact, this anti-aging treatment is so popular with men that it has been coined “Brotox.” It’s easy to see why both men and women love Botox: it’s a quick and painless treatment that takes less than 20 minutes to perform, requires no downtime and leaves the patient free of wrinkles that include crow’s feet, forehead creases and the “11” lines between the eyebrows. The result is a younger-looking face that looks natural, and not pulled or fake. The beautiful results of Botox treatment typically last four to six months.
Male Breast Reduction
A significant number of men are unhappy with extra breast tissue, which gives them a more feminine-looking chest. Gynecomastia is a condition that causes extra breast tissue in men, which occurs as a result of hormone changes, obesity, certain types of medications and other factors. For these men, who are often self-conscious as a result, the male breast reduction procedure can help them to achieve a more masculine-looking chest. At Aqua Plastic Surgery, Dr. Rankin performs this surgery on an outpatient basis using liposuction through a small incision in each breast in order to remove excess breast tissue. The result is a flatter and fitter-looking chest that men feel more comfortable showing off shirtless.
Liposuction
Regardless of consistent exercise habits and a healthy diet, both men and women find that — especially as they get older — they have fat deposits that won’t budge. For men, these stubborn areas often include the “spare tire” of fat around the waist, extra fat on the back and neck, as well as others. These men are the perfect candidate for liposuction, a body-sculpting procedure that removes not only the fat deposits but also the fat cells in the area so that fat bulges won’t return. More and more men are using liposuction to smooth out their physique for a leaner, trimmer appearance. During his liposuction procedure, Dr. Rankin injects tumescent fluid into the treatment area; this surgical method results in a less painful procedure with less blood loss during surgery and less bruising, swelling and discomfort during recovery.
Schedule Your Consultation with Dr. Rankin or Dr. Deziel
Are you a guy who’s considering a cosmetic treatment but you're unsure where to start? Dr. David Rankin has treated countless men at Aqua Plastic Surgery and he's joined in the practice by Dr. Allyson Dezeil. Get your questions answered in a one-on-one consultation with the doctor by calling Aqua Plastic Surgery at (561) 776-2830 in Jupiter or use the easy contact form.
What Causes Breast Sag — and What Can Help?
Do you notice that your once-buoyant breasts are starting to droop a little — or a lot? Breast sag, or ptosis, is an unfortunate part of a woman’s life, and there are many factors that contribute to the downward migration of breasts over time. But don’t despair — there are things you can do in your daily life to keep your breasts healthy and even to prevent a certain amount of drooping. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. David Rankin has performed numerous breast lift surgeries at his practice, Aqua Plastic Surgery. Dr. Rankin has an understanding of the factors that contribute to and prevent breast sag, which he shares in this post.
Pregnancy
When a woman is pregnant, her body produces estrogen and progesterone, which act to stimulate the mammary glands in the breasts in order to produce milk. This process enlarges the breasts during pregnancy and lactating, but once milk production stops, a woman’s breasts shrink back to their normal size or smaller than before. This change in breast size, especially if it occurs repeatedly over multiple pregnancies, stretches the breast skin and causes breasts to sag.
Aging and Genetics
Breasts are made of fat, glands, milk ducts and connective tissue. As a woman ages, the connective tissue in the breasts, which acts as a type of support system, gets stretched out and loses elasticity. This breakdown in the breast support system results in breasts losing their size and fullness, causing them to droop. In addition to the aging process, a woman’s genetics also have a bearing on how much her breasts sag as she ages, since her genes partially determine the strength of her connective tissue and the elasticity of her skin.
Significant Weight Fluctuations
Gaining and losing weight — particularly a significant amount — is a common factor that contributes to sagging breasts. With the increase and decrease of breast size that occurs every time a woman’s weight changes, the skin and ligaments of the breasts become stretched out and slack, causing breasts to droop as a result.
How to Prevent Breast Sag
Though a woman can expect a certain amount of breast sag over the course of her life, certain lifestyle habits can help protect breast skin and tissue and slow, or even prevent, a certain amount from occurring. The following are some tips on how to keep your breasts young-looking for as long as possible.
- Keep your weight stable. A stable weight will prevent breast skin and tissue from stretching out over time.
- Quit smoking. Smoking breaks down elastin, the protein that gives the skin elasticity.
- Wear the right bra during high-impact workouts. Wear a well-fitting sports bra to prevent breasts from bouncing and stretching out the breast skin.
- Wear sunscreen on your chest. Since the skin on and around the breasts is so delicate and susceptible to sun damage, causing loss of skin elasticity, apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to the exposed areas of your chest.
Ask Aqua about Breast Lift Surgery
Are you finding yourself more and more unhappy with breasts that were once perky, but are now showing signs of drooping? Why not schedule a breast lift consultation with Dr. Rankin? You can do so by contacting Aqua Plastic Surgery at (561) 776-2830 in Jupiter.
Your Mommy Makeover Questions Answered
Maybe you’ve heard from friends who are also mothers about the “mommy makeover” procedure, and you’re curious to learn more. Does it really get your body back to a “pre-pregnancy” shape? Can it really be the cure for drooping breasts, a stomach pooch and wobbly thighs and buttocks? Aqua Plastic Surgery has the answers here to the most common questions we receive about this remarkable body contouring surgery.
What is a Mommy Makeover?
There may be slight confusion as to what exactly a mommy makeover includes, so let’s start with a definition. A mommy makeover is a combination of two or more plastic surgery procedures that are hand-picked and tailor-made to fit each individual mom and her specific body shaping needs as a result of the effects of childbearing and breastfeeding. The procedures that may be included in a mommy makeover are breast augmentation, breast lift, tummy tuck and liposuction.
How Long Should I Wait After Giving Birth Before Having a Mommy Makeover?
If you have recently given birth and are considering having a mommy makeover, it is recommended that you first let your body return to as normal a state as possible, and that you lose the majority of the weight gained during pregnancy. It is also recommended that you wait until about two to three months after you’re finished breastfeeding before undergoing this surgery. This will allow you to heal at a faster rate and maintain optimal aesthetic results.
Should I Have a Mommy Makeover if I Still Plan to Have Children?
Whether you’re finished adding to your family or you are not planning on getting pregnant again, you are still a candidate for a mommy makeover. However, most doctors recommend that a woman waits until she’s done having children before going ahead with the surgery, as it allows for the most long-lasting results.
How Long is the Recovery Period after Surgery?
The length of your recovery period is dependent on the procedures, and also the extent of work, included in your mommy makeover surgery. The good news is that, unlike having multiple surgeries spaced out over time, you will only need one recovery period after a mommy makeover. This means less downtime where you are unable to work or take care of your children.
You will need help with taking care of your children and daily responsibilities for the first week after surgery. If you also work, plan to be off for about 10 to 14 days. These may sound like long lengths of time, but imagine double or triple these — the length of time it would take to recover from multiple surgeries spaced out over time, rather than combining them into one mommy makeover procedure.
What If I Have More Questions?
Are you interested in learning more about the mommy makeover procedure and how it can help you get back to your sexy, pre-pregnancy body? Schedule a consultation with Dr. David Rankin or Dr. Allyson Deziel at Aqua Plastic Surgery by calling our Jupiter office at (561) 776-2830.
Breast Implant Maintenance after Breast Augmentation
We all know that sticking to a regular exercise regimen is important to keep our muscles strong and joints flexible, but did you know that there is a regular upkeep routine for your breast implants after breast augmentation? Breast implants become part of your body the moment surgery has been completed, and therefore it is important to treat them with the same self-care as the rest of your body. Dr. David Rankin of Aqua Plastic Surgery has compiled a breast implant maintenance list to help you keep your breasts healthy and in optimal shape.
Keep up on Massage Exercises
Dr. Rankin recommends that his breast augmentation patients gently massage their breasts each day, starting one week after the surgery. Perform these massages daily, or as often as possible, for the first three months after surgery. This will help to reduce the risk of capsular contracture (scar tissue forming around the implant and hardening it) and help maintain the contour and position of your new breasts. A light massaging of each breast — gently pushing the implant up, down, right and left inside the breast pocket — for up to 20 minutes a day is recommended during this period.
Find the Right Support
Implants add weight to your breasts, and therefore require greater support than before. Therefore, once you’re fully healed from surgery, you should go bra shopping for a bra that gives your larger, weightier breasts support that will prevent them from too much bounce or droop—both of which may contribute to breast sag over time. A good regular bra as well as a good sports bra is important, and both should be snug without cutting into the ribcage or putting strain on the shoulders or back. Often, a bra with wider shoulder straps and full cups that cover the entire breast are good choices.
Get Regular Mammograms
Routine mammograms are important for all woman — those with breast implants and those without. And the recommendations for regular breast screenings are the same for both groups: women age 40 and older should have a yearly mammogram. And from ages 50 to 74, women should have a mammogram every two years. Younger women, ages 20 to 39, should get a clinical breast exam every three years to check their breast health. Keeping up-to-date on breast exams, whatever your age, can mean early detection of breast cancer and other breast conditions that, if left unchecked, could be fatal.
Be Alert to Problems
Deflated or ruptured implants, implant hardening (a sign of capsular contracture) and changes to the size or position of the implant are all things to look out for. These complications can occur right after surgery or years later, and depend on many factors. Capsular contracture, where scar tissue forms around the breast implant, making it hard and uncomfortable, can often be corrected without surgery, but may also require a capsulectomy (a surgery that removes the scar tissue around the implant). Ruptured or deflated implants, caused by severe blows or trauma to the chest, will need to be removed and replaced with new implants. Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.
Call Dr. Rankin to Find Out More
Whether you’re just considering having breast implants or you’ve already had breast augmentation surgery and are enjoying your new curves, Dr. David Rankin is the go-to for breast surgery information, both pre- and post-operative. To schedule a breast augmentation consultation or to learn more about the procedure, contact Dr. Rankin at Aqua Plastic Surgery by calling (561) 776-2830.
Three Ways to Tone That Tummy
Though the end of summer has officially arrived, in places like sunny Florida — where bikinis, shorts and mini-dresses are the everyday uniform — it can be hard to hide that stomach pooch. How to beat the “muffin top blues”? Dr. David Rankin, Dr. Allyson Deziel and the understanding and friendly staff at Aqua Plastic Surgery have many options for you if you want to get rid of that extra fat on your mid-section for a sleeker, flatter tummy.
Tummy Tuck Surgery
Patients who need a more extensive solution to extra fat and loose, hanging skin on their stomach (often caused by pregnancy or weight loss) can opt for our tummy tuck procedure. Also called abdominoplasty, tummy tuck surgery removes excess fat and loose skin from the abdomen, and in some cases also involves tightening the abdominal muscles. Dr. Rankin carefully places his incisions low on the pubic area so that the resulting scars are hidden with underwear and bikini bottoms. The sexy, flab-free new belly you will be left with as a result will be worth the few weeks of recovery!
CoolSculpting
CoolSculpting is a fast, pain-free procedure that freezes fat cells in your stomach — or any area being treated — so that they are emulsified and then absorbed naturally by the body. Once gone, these fat cells are gone for good, leaving you with a firmer and flatter stomach.
This FDA-approved technology is safe and effective, and since it’s non-invasive, it doesn’t require scalpels or needles. The CoolSculpting system uses a device that is placed on the surface of the skin, where it is moved over the area in order to target the fat cells and destroy them. The slimming results of this non-surgical liposuction alternative can be seen gradually over the course of the weeks following treatment, as you will see your tummy shrink before your eyes!
truSculpt
Aqua Plastic Surgery also offers truSculpt, another non-invasive body contouring procedure that removes fat cells using radiofrequency (RF) technology. This treatment can be used on the stomach as well as other problem areas, like the thighs, where troublesome fat pockets often remain despite the best diet and exercise habits.
A truSculpt treatment takes about an hour or less. The doctor moves a handheld device over the surface of the patient’s skin on the treatment area. This device emits RF waves, which will painlessly destroy the fat cells there before they are then naturally eliminated by the body. Patients can expect no discomfort, only a slight heat sensation. And since there is no downtime, they can then return to work, school or other normal daily activities immediately after treatment. They will notice a more toned-looking mid-section after about four weeks.
Start Slimming Now
To get on track for a smoking hot new waistline, contact us to schedule an appointment. You can also contact Aqua Plastic Surgery by calling our Jupiter office at (561) 776-2830.
Bra Shopping Tips After Breast Augmentation
Shopping for a new bra after breast augmentation is an entirely different experience than shopping before breast implants. Gone are the days of extra padding and squeezing to accentuate your curves; you have those curves permanently now! But though this can be an exciting time — with you raring to head out the door to find fun and sexy new styles to show off the new “girls” — it can also be a confusing experience if you aren’t aware of what to look for regarding proper sizing and support. Dr. David Rankin and the helpful staff of Aqua Plastic Surgery are here to help with these simple, yet effective, post-surgery bra shopping tips.
Shop after You’re Completely Healed
Knowing when to shop is as important as knowing what to shop for; and while there’s nothing stopping you from taking your excitement about your soon-to-be new breasts and going shopping before surgery, the best time to shop for a new bra is after surgery, when you have fully healed and are cleared by your doctor.
Trying on and wearing regular bras (especially underwire) too soon after surgery can cause interruptions in the healing process, including preventing implants from settling into position, failing to provide adequate protection and support to the breasts as they heal and infection of the incisions.
Usually, the breasts are fully healed (with the accompanying swelling gone) about eight weeks after surgery, though you should check with your doctor first before switching to a regular bra.
Get a Professional Bra Fitting
Whether you’ve already had your bra size measured previously or not, you’ll need to have your new bust re-measured after implants are added. Going to a department store, or lingerie boutique for a fitting is wise, as you will want to ensure that your new breasts get the support they need. If not, you may end up with neck, shoulder and back pain as a result.
Though you and your doctor may have decided on your new, post-implant bra size, it may vary a bit as an implant tends to run wider than a natural breast. And since different bra brands and styles fit differently, even within the same size, you can get further shopping direction at the time of your measurement.
Look for Signs of the Right — and Wrong — Size
Breasts with implants have a more structured shape with more fullness on the upper portion of the breast, unlike natural breast tissue, which slopes more downward. Bras fit differently as a result. While trying different styles on, keep alert for signs that a bra is fitting you properly — and signs that it’s not. A proper fitting bra will be snug without creating fat bulges from a too-tight bra band. Bra straps should not slip off the shoulders but also shouldn’t cut into the shoulders. The bra cup should be completely filled, but the breast should not be overflowing out of it. The bra band should remain in an even line around the rib cage, not riding up the back.
Need More Breast Augmentation Information?
Our board-certified plastic surgeons can answer any of your breast augmentation questions during a personal consultation. To schedule one, call Aqua Plastic Surgery in Jupiter, FL, at (561) 776-2830.
Skin Treatments to Relieve Sun Damage
Research has shown that more than 90% of the visible markers of aging are related to skin damage from the sun. As little as a few minutes a day in the sun without protection can cause noticeable signs of aging on the face, such as uneven pigmentation, brown spots and wrinkles. A cosmetic skin treatment, like those offered by the trained surgeons at Aqua Plastic Surgery, can take years off of your face, for skin that is not only smoother and brighter, but healthier.
If you are seeing the unsightly signs of years of sun damage starting to surface, consider one of the following non-surgical treatments for a younger-looking, rejuvenated face.
Dermabrasion or Microdermabrasion
Depending on the amount of sun damage your skin has undergone, you may wish to consider either a dermabrasion or a microdermabrasion procedure, both of which remove the damaged upper layer of skin. The main difference between the two skin treatments is that microdermabrasion removes a thin layer from the surface of the skin, whereas dermabrasion removes a deeper layer of skin, reaching down into the skin’s collagen level.
Microdermabrasion lightly exfoliates the skin using tiny microcrystals, and patients typically see the brightening effect on their skin after one treatment. Dermabrasion involves the use of a machine-driven wire brush or rotating wheel that safely and effectively scrapes the skin to remove the dead skin cells. Both treatments are effective treatments for sun damage, wrinkles and other skin concerns, as they remove old, damaged skin cells and promote the growth of healthy, new skin cells in their place.
Laser Treatments
Laser skin resurfacing uses pulsating beams of focused laser light that are used to vaporize old, damaged skin cells in the topmost layer of the skin. The body will then respond by producing new, healthy skin cells in its place for a smoother, refreshed complexion. Among our laser treatment options, we offer Fraxel laser treatment, which uses a microscopic laser to target problem areas of the skin with even more precision and less downtime than other laser treatments. Safe for all skin colors and skin types, laser treatments produce immediate results that can last several months or more.
Chemical Peels and Skincare Products
One of the least invasive ways to improve the texture of your skin is with a chemical peel. We offer our patients the Vitalize Peel® by SkinMedica, which uses a blend of hydroxy acids, retinoic acid and other effective ingredients to remove the dead top layer of skin and promote the growth of new skin cells for a fresh glow with no downtime In fact, the Vitalize Peel is often called a “lunchtime treatment” because you can be treated on your lunch break and return to the office right afterwards!
Skincare products are also a less invasive, though effective remedy for the drying, cracking effects of sun damage on the face and body. Aqua Plastic Surgery offers Obagi® skin care products, made from natural botanical ingredients that stimulate the production of elastin and collagen in the skin.
To find out more about this product line or the in-office treatments mentioned, call our office in Jupiter, FL, at (561) 776-2830.
How to Prepare for Successful Eyelid Surgery Recovery
Eyelid surgery is a facial procedure that brightens and rejuvenates the area around the eyes. Many people decide to undergo the procedure to eliminate bags underneath the eyes and wrinkles on the upper eyelids for a more youthful appearance. Other people choose eyelid surgery for medical reasons; excess, droopy skin on the upper eyelids can be painful and interfere with vision. In any case, eyelid surgery performed by a qualified surgeon and followed by proper care can deliver beautiful results. Here, Dr. David Rankin of Aqua Plastic Surgery shares tips to ensure long-lasting results and a safe recovery.
Keep your head elevated. Immediately following surgery, you will be directed to keep your head above the level of the rest of your body to reduce swelling and promote faster healing. Once you’re home, try using two or three medium size pillows to prop up your head.
Apply a cold compress. Place a cold compress over your eyes to reduce swelling. This will help relieve any pain you may feel after the anesthesia begins to wear off.
Avoid eye strain. Following surgery, minimize your computer and television time, and do not exercise until your doctor says you can. For the first few weeks, avoid activities that may expose your eyes to sunlight, wind, sand, dust and debris. During the first few days of recovery, ask someone you trust to help you with daily activities.
Keep your eyes clean. Following your surgery, your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to clean your eyes. Follow these guidelines carefully to prevent bacteria from reaching your eyes, because it can cause infections. Avoid wearing eye makeup for the first two weeks or so following surgery.
Use eye drops. Your eyes may get dry and itchy in the days following surgery. Avoid rubbing them or tugging at the skin around the eyes. Instead, use eye drops to keep the eyes moist and comfortable. Before your surgery, be sure to ask your doctor for recommendations on eye drops.
Follow prescription medication instructions. Take all prescription medicine as directed. Do not take any over-the-counter medicine or painkillers without consulting your doctor first. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or aspirin should be avoided during your recovery period because they increase the risk of bleeding.
Get plenty of sleep. A successful recovery for any plastic surgery procedure includes plenty of rest. For eyelid surgery in particular, this includes getting a lot of shut-eye. Remember to keep your head elevated even as you sleep and keep your bed or rest area clear of items that may accidentally hurt or poke your eye while you sleep.
Don’t skip follow-up consultations. Most patients are able to return to work a week following surgery. However, our doctors may recommend more recovery time based on your healing progress. This is why it’s important to meet with your doctor as directed. Your follow-up appointments are the best times to let your doctor know of any pain or discomfort you may feel. This way, he can make suggestions or recommendations to improve your recovery.
Schedule Your Eyelid Surgery Consultation Today
To learn more about eyelid surgery or our other facial rejuvenation procedures, schedule a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Rankin or Dr. Allyson Deziel. Please call Aqua Plastic Surgery in Jupiter at (561) 776-2830.
More People are Turning to Plastic Surgery After Massive Weight Loss, Study Says
Many people undergo major weight loss surgery believing the end result will be the shape and figure they always wanted. But in reality, weight loss surgery may only be the first step towards a desired physique. New information released by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) shows an increase in the number of weight loss surgeries has sparked a rise in body contouring procedures. Dr. David Rankin of Aqua Plastic Surgery takes a closer look at these findings and the benefits of body contouring after major weight loss surgery.
Massive Weight Loss Surgery Fuels Increase in Plastic Surgery
In 2014, body contouring procedures that typically follow major weight loss increased at their fastest rate in four years, according to ASPS. Thigh lifts and upper arm lifts both rose 9%, tummy tucks increased 4%, while breast lifts rose 10%. Last year also saw a surge in the number of weight loss surgeries. The ASPS believes the rise in weight loss surgery and body contouring procedures are related.
People who undergo major weight loss surgery are often times left with excess skin, including on the arms, abdomen, and thighs. This sagging, drooping skin can be uncomfortable, unsightly and even painful for weight loss surgery patients. Body contouring procedures restore firmness and elasticity to your body by removing excess skin.
Benefits of Plastic Surgery After Major Weight Loss Surgery
Each body contouring procedure offers different benefits for weight loss patients, depending on what they are trying to achieve.
- Body lift, the procedure most commonly performed after-weight loss, eliminates loose skin and refines the contours of the lower body after massive weight loss
- Breast lift elevates saggy breasts to a higher position on the chest and eliminates excess skin
- Tummy tuck surgery eliminates excess loose skin and stubborn fat deposits on the abdomen
- Arm lift removes excess arm skin for a smoother, tighter contour
- Liposuction can get rid of excess fat and refine the contours of different areas of the body, including the back and thighs
Take the Next Step with Body Contouring
If you have recently undergone weight loss surgery, consider perfecting your new body shape with one of our body contouring procedures. Schedule a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Rankin of Aqua Plastic Surgery by calling (561) 776-2830 today.
Enjoy a More Beautiful Buttocks with Fat Transfer
A beautiful backside has always been a priority for many people, but how they’re getting it is changing. While butt implants are still popular, more Americans are choosing fat transfer, also known as the Brazilian Butt Lift, to get a fuller buttocks, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. This procedure is popular among people who want to improve the appearance of their buttocks while getting rid of unwanted fat in another part of the body.
What Is a Brazilian Butt Lift?
Inspired by the beautiful women of Brazil, the Brazilian Butt Lift improves the size and shape of the buttocks by adding fat taken from another part of the body, such as the abdomen, hips or back. Dr. David Rankin of Aqua Plastic Surgery specializes in Brazilian Butt Lifts. First, he uses liposuction to remove the unwanted fat from the “donor” area. He purifies the cells and then injects them into the buttocks to help the patient achieve the curvature and shape they desire.
What Are the Benefits of a Brazilian Butt Lift?
Perhaps the most appealing aspect of a Brazilian Butt Lift is you can achieve a better backside and lose fat in unwanted areas of the body all at the same time! Other benefits to the Brazilian Butt Lift are:
- A natural look. The Brazilian Butt Lift only uses fat and tissue to boost the shape and size of your butt, meaning it’s all natural.
- Complete satisfaction: Before the procedure, Dr. Rankin will take the time to consult with you to determine how much augmentation and/or lift is best for your body.
- Higher self-esteem: Having the buttocks you have always wanted gives you the self-confidence to wear the clothing you’ve always wanted to wear, and go to the places you’ve wanted to go.
- Quick results: Achieving the perfect butt is not easy. Many people go to the gym to work on their butts, with little to no results. A Brazilian Butt Lift procedure only takes a couple of hours, and recovery time is usually one week to 10 days. This means you can enjoy your fuller buttocks in only a matter of days after the procedure.
For more information on how you can improve your physique with a Brazilian Butt Lift, schedule a consultation with Dr. David Rankin or Dr. Allyson Deziel of Aqua Plastic Surgery.