Frequently Asked Questions

Some common questions and answers

a quisitive woman

We understand that you probably have many questions about the different cosmetic surgical procedures you are interested in. Because of this, we have provided answers to some of the most common questions asked about our most sought after procedures. If these do not answer your particular question, please contact Dr. Webb today to set up an initial consultation where every question you have will be answered

Frequently Asked Question Topics

  • Breast Augmentation

    What is breast augmentation?

    Breast augmentation is enhancement of the size of the breasts using inflatable breast implants filled most often with saline, but other substances (such as silicone) are also used. Silicone is the second most common substance that fills implants. Breast augmentation can also be called breast implant surgery, breast enlargement surgery, breast augmentation and breast augmentation mammoplasty.

    How long does breast augmentation surgery take?

    Typically, breast augmentation surgery takes 1–2 hours, but this, of course, varies from person to person.

    What is the breast augmentation recovery time?

    The day after your breast augmentation procedure, you will be sore and fatigued. You should apply ice packs to the chest area and do nothing but rest during the first 48 hours. If your implant is placed under your muscle, your recovery time may be longer because more incisions are required during the surgery.

    Will I be awake for the breast surgery?

    You will be asleep during the surgery as it is done under general anesthesia.

    Will I have to stay overnight in the hospital after surgery?

    No. Breast augmentation surgery is usually done on an out-patient basis. If there are complications that arise during or after the surgery, however, a hospital admission would be considered. Also, if you have other procedures done at the same time of your breast augmentation such as liposuction or a tummy tuck, then admission to the hospital may be recommended.

    What are the side effects of breast augmentation surgery?

    The possible side effects can include: temporary breast soreness, change in nipple sensation, bruising, and swelling. This, of course, varies from patient to patient. Your breasts may also be sensitive to stimulation for a few weeks after breast surgery.

    What are the risks associated with breast augmentation surgery?

    The risks include, but are not limited to: bleeding, infection, capsular contracture (the formation of scar tissue around the implant), increased or decreased sensitivity of nipples or skin, and a possible different technique needed for mammography.

    As with any surgery, there are also the risks of anesthesia. These risks are best discussed in person with Dr. Webb. Each woman's risks vary and not everyone is suited for breast implants. Also of importance is the possibility of uneven breasts after breast augmentation surgery. Realistically, breasts are not even to begin with. Therefore, technically speaking, the human body isn't perfectly symmetrical. Perfectly symmetrical breasts is usually an unrealistic goal of breast augmentation/contouring surgeries.

    Will breast implants increase my risk of developing breast cancer?

    Implants will not affect your chances of getting breast cancer, but we recommend continued surveillance for breast cancer with annual mammograms for those of you over the age of 35 along with routine physical exams.

  • Breast Lifts

    What is a mastopexy?

    This is the medical term for what is commonly referred to as a "breast lift." The mastopexy or breast lifting operation is really several different procedures. Each of the different operations has as its intended purpose to lift the breast up and position the nipple in the position that it was in before sagging occurred. Sagging occurs due to three circumstances either alone or in conjunction with each other.

    First, after pregnancy and breast feeding, the breast has become stretched and the skin loosened. Frequently there is actual loss of some of the breast tissue and this allows for sag, also. Second, weight gain and loss can stretch the skin and also create sag. Third, the process of aging and the effects of sun and gravity tend to decrease the elasticity of the skin and this can be a significant factor creating sag of the breast. The goal in all these instances is to move the nipple back to a higher position and to reshape the breast to create a more beautiful appearance. Most often, the need for excess skin removal is apparent.

    When is mastopexy usually performed?

    Usually, after pregnancy or after pregnancy and breast-feeding, there is a lot of breast tissue loss. Sometimes, it is just age or even a drooping caused from not wearing a bra through most of one's life. Mastopexy is often sought out by women who have either been pregnant or have gained a lot of weight and have since lost the weight. A mastopexy will transform a sagging breast to its former youthful appearance. However, if you are planning to have children (or additional children if you already have one or more), you should postpone your breast lift until after you are sure you are not going to bear any more children.

    If you choose to have a child after having had a mastopexy, you will only stretch your skin even more, and even thinner this time, and will have to get another mastopexy. If you should decide to have children after a mastopexy, your breast feeding ability should not be disturbed as the milk ducts should be left intact and undisturbed (unless it is the anchor incision technique where disturbance is quite possible). Mastopexy can be performed at any age if you are in good health and meet certain emotional criteria (are psychologically stable and have realistic expectations).

    How is a breast lift performed?

    Mastopexy can be performed using local or general anesthesia. You and Dr. Webb will discuss which option is best suited to your unique needs and desires. The crescent mastopexy calls for the removing of a crescent of skin above the areola, moving the nipple upward, and suturing the nipple into the new location. The full mastopexy requires incisions fashioned in such a way to actually create a new breast envelope. This allows for the repositioning of the nipple and the reshaping of the breast. Either of these operations can be performed in conjunction with a breast augmentation.

    How long does the surgery take?

    Typically, a breast lift it takes about 1.5 to 4 hours to perform.

    What should expect after surgery?

    Sutures will have been placed underneath the skin and will dissolve over several months. Sutures will have been placed onto the skin and will dissolve in one week. A special tape is placed over the sutures to help protect the wound. A bra will be worn continuously for 21 days, 24 hours per day. Instructions on bra removal for washing will be given after the breast surgery. There is generally very little pain after this operation and only a moderate amount of swelling. The patient may return to work in 3 to 4 days unless the work involves bending or lifting. Walking may be resumed the day after surgery. As with any surgery, recovery time varies with each patient.

  • Facelifts

    What is a facelift?

    Medically known as rhytidectomy, a facelift is a surgical procedure that smoothes loose skin on the face and neck, tightens underlying tissues and muscles, and removes excess fat.

    What are the benefits of having a facelift?

    A facelift will help to minimize the visible signs of aging and enhance your self-confidence by making you look younger and more vibrant.

    What are the risks associated with a facelift?

    As with any cosmetic surgery, there are definitely some risks involved with having a facelift. Although significant complications from facelifts are rare, risks may include nerve damage, infection, bleeding, and adverse reaction to the anesthesia. Smokers stand an increased risk for poor healing as they do with most surgeries.

    Who is a good candidate for this surgery?

    The best candidate for a facelift is a person whose facial skin has started to sag but whose skin retains some elasticity. Additionally, a good candidate will have a strong, well-defined bone structure. It is important for patients to have a realistic expectation of their surgery and to understand the risks and benefits (read above) of a facelift.

    How long will the results of my facelift last?

    The results will vary from patient to patient; however, most people can expect their results to last between five and ten years.

    How long before I can resume normal, everyday activities?

    This will depend on the individual. Most people are able to return to work between 10 and 14 days after their surgery even though swelling and bruising may take up to three weeks to disappear. Sun exposure should also be limited.

  • Liposuction

    What is liposuction?

    Liposuction is a surgical technique that improves the body's contour by removing excess fat deposits located between the skin and muscle. Liposuction involves the use of a small stainless steel tube called a cannula. The liposuction cannula, typically connected to a powerful suction pump, is inserted into the fat through small incisions in the skin, and fat is removed by suction as the cannula creates tiny tunnels through the fat. During the healing process after liposuction, these tiny tunnels shrink and disappear, resulting in an improved body contour.

    Who would be a good candidate for liposuction?

    A good candidate for liposuction is defined as any patient who is likely to be happy with the results of liposuction. The best candidates for liposuction are in good health and have realistic expectations of what liposuction can accomplish. Liposuction can provide a good candidate with a significant improvement, but it is unlikely to achieve perfection. There is no definite age or weight limit for patients who are "good candidates" for liposuction. Many liposuction patients are of average size but are concerned about localized accumulations of fat. However, some of the happiest patients have been individuals who are somewhat obese. A good candidate usually has one or more localized accumulations of fat that can be removed by liposuction.

    Who is not a good candidate?

    A person who expects absolute perfection is not a good candidate for liposuction. Excessively obese patients are usually not good candidates for liposuction and anyone who has a serious medical problem is not a good candidate for liposuction.

    Is liposuction the recommended treatment for obesity?

    Liposuction is not a good treatment of obesity. Liposuction is not effective, even as a last resort, for people who are unable to lose weight by dieting and exercise. Obese patients almost always regain the weight that is removed by liposuction unless there is a dramatic reduction in calorie intake (by dieting) or a significant increase in calorie expenditure (by exercising).

    Whenever large-volume liposuction has been used in an attempt to treat obesity by surgery, there has been a significant increase in the incidence of serious surgical complications. It is not safe to remove huge amounts of fat by liposuction. It is dangerous to remove more than 8 to 10 pounds of fat by liposuction in a single day. Thus, liposuction will not be of any significant benefit for an obese patient who believes that liposuction will aid in the effort to lose weight.

    On the other hand, an overweight person whose weight has been stable for many years and has certain problem-areas of fat may be a good candidate for liposuction. Liposuction in an obese patient is reasonable when the goal is to improve a troublesome body contour area. It is not reasonable to use liposuction as a surgical technique for weight loss.

    Does liposuction yield permanent results?

    If a patient does gain a moderate amount of weight after liposuction, then the figure will simply be a larger version of the new body shape. Fat cells that are removed by liposuction do not grow back. As long as the patient does not gain excessive amounts of weight, the new, more pleasing body is permanent. Of course, after liposuction the clock keeps ticking, and advancing age will produce the usual changes in the shape of the body associated with the aging process. If a person gains weight after liposuction, she will not accumulate as much fat in the treated areas as would have happened if liposuction had not been done.

  • Abdominoplasty

    What is the difference between a tummy tuck and an abdominoplasty?

    There is no difference. Abdominoplasty is the medical term used to describe a tummy tuck and is the surgical process of removing excessive fat and skin from a patient's lower and middle abdomen. A tummy tuck is also used to tighten the abdominal wall muscles. This body contouring procedure is an excellent way to rid oneself of stubborn fat in the mid section that does not respond to diet and exercise.

    What benefits are associated with a tummy tuck?

    Because a tummy tuck extracts fat tissue and sagging skin, the procedure can produce a dramatically flatter and firm stomach and a slimmer waistline. This is one of the most popular plastic surgical procedures available. Most patients are satisfied with the results of a tummy tuck and report a stronger self-image.

    Am I a candidate for a tummy tuck?

    Tummy tuck candidates are healthy men and women with realistic expectations about this procedure. Ideally, a tummy tuck patient will be within his or her desired weight but wishes to get rid of stubborn pockets of fat in the mid section.

    What is the tummy tuck surgery like?

    During tummy tuck surgery, incisions are made along the abdomen above the pubic bones. The skin is then lifted and the abdomen muscles are pulled, tightened, and stitched into a new, firmer position. Excess fat may be excised manually or via liposuction. The skin is then stretched into place and sutured.

    Normally, a tummy tuck surgery will take between two to four hours. However, the exact time of the tummy tuck procedure will depend on the type of tummy tuck performed. A mini tummy tuck - or partial abdominoplasty - will require less time than a normal tummy tuck.

    Are there risks with tummy tucks?

    As with any surgery, there are risks with a tummy tuck. Though rare, tummy tuck surgery poses the risk of blood clots, infection and noticeably loose areas of skin following surgery. Poor healing could potentially lead to a second tummy tuck operation. To avoid further possible complications any plans of future weight loss or pregnancy should be discussed before the tummy tuck procedure.

    What should I expect after my surgery?

    The healing process after a tummy tuck can span two to four weeks. Additionally, the tummy tuck patient will be unable to stand upright for the first week following the procedure. It is important for tummy tuck patients to have a dependable friend or family member aid him or her during the initial week.

    How long will the results last?

    The results of this procedure are permanent with proper diet and exercise. However, significant weight loss or gain, pregnancy, and age may adversely effect your surgical results. After several years, a second tummy tuck can be performed to restore originally satisfying results.

  • Rhinoplasty

    What is rhinoplasty?

    Rhinoplasty is cosmetic surgery of the nose. It is also known as nasal refinement or a "nose job." With rhinoplasty, defects or asymmetries from either birth or trauma can be corrected by breaking the bones of the nose and re-setting them in the desired shape, often narrow and straight. A hump may be removed to give a more pleasing appearance and the nasal bones may be straightened for a more symmetrical.

    Who can have nose surgery and when?

    Extensive nasal surgery is generally avoided in children. There are major growth centers in the nose that affect the growth of the face. In cases of severe disfigurement due to accidents, surgery is performed in an attempt to restore the alignment of those centers. For lesser deformities, surgery is deferred until after the child stops growing. Rhinoplasties performed on teenagers and young adults, it seems, are often beneficial to the social development and self-confidence of the individual. The aging process is reflected in many ways in the nose, and its correction can add youthfulness and freshness to the appearance.

    How is rhinoplasty performed?

    A good surgeon will not just slim your nose, shorten or lengthen it, rather he will take into account what your facial features and bone structure would benefit from. Be it a slimmer more defined or perhaps more "turned up." Perhaps it is only a hump that is desired to be removed, making it unnecessary to even have a full rhinoplasty. There is no "one size fits all" when it comes to this procedure.

    Usually, light sleep anesthesia or general anesthesia is used. The patient usually arrives early, and oral medications are administered and supplemented with intravenous medication. After you are "asleep" and your vital signs are determined as safe and stable, local anesthesia is then applied to the nose. Surgery generally lasts about one and a half hours. The patient experiences no pain during the surgery. A splint or cast is applied and will be worn for approximately 7 days. Many patients remember very little about the surgery. After the procedure is completed, the patient then recovers in a relaxed environment and is monitored for a couple of hours before being driven home by a companion. You absolutely cannot drive yourself home after any procedure.

    What should I expect during recovery?

    After your surgery, a pressure dressing will be placed over your eyes as well as a gauze pad underneath your nose to catch blood and mucous. You will remove the pressure dressing after a few hours or as specified by him. You may become sick from ingested blood during the procedure and vomit, expelling a black mixture of stomach acid and blood. This will pass as soon as the blood is expelled. It really isn't that much so you shouldn't be sick for long unless you were under general anesthesia and are sensitive to it. If you continue to vomit and/or run a high fever, contact our office immediately.

    Your nose will be sensitive for approximately a month and a half although patients report no serious pain or discomfort. However, patients do report the discomfort of breathing with the packing and cast on the nose. Some patients feel claustrophobic feeling as if they cannot breathe. This feeling widely resembles a head cold or sinus infection. Only when the cast is removed do you feel pain again, unless you bump it accidentally.

  • Blepharoplasty

    What is blepharoplasty?

    Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) is designed to remove the excess fat, skin, and atrophied muscle from the upper and lower eyelids. It is a very popular procedure as hooded eyes seem to lack luster and seem old or tired to our patients. Many individuals who choose this procedure are very aware that their upper eyelids have seemed to disappear within the fat of the upper eye area. Fat "herniation" is quite normal and will happen to everyone once we age. However, some individuals have herniated fat in the upper area of their eyes even in their early teens, and this condition can be genetic, too.

    Sometimes a blepharoplasty can improve a patient's vision. This is achieved by removing the excess fat and skin that may block an individual's peripheral field of vision. Whatever the case, the purpose of a blepharoplasty is for the aesthetic appeal that wider, youthful eyes possess.

    How is the procedure performed?

    Blepharoplasty is usually performed using local anesthesia and light sleep sedation or general anesthesia. The incisions are made within the natural creases of the eyelids. The herniated fat and excess skin is then removed and the incision is sutured with very fine hair-like sutures.

    Does blepharoplasty leave scars?

    As with any surgical procedure, some scarring should be expected. The scarring associated with blepharoplasty is quite minimal and practically non-existent after several months. The scars are placed within the normal creases and folds of the upper and lower eyelids so that when the eyes are open the scars are invisible. With lower blepharoplasty, where the fat is to be removed only with no skin excision, the incision can be made either on the inside of the eyelid or right under the lash line.

    At what age is blepharoplasty typically performed?

    Although there is no set age when blepharoplasty is performed, the usual ages that patients start making consultation appointments for blepharoplasty is from 35 years of age and up. However, this is a highly individual preference, and patients may want to remove this excess skin at an age younger than 35.

    Will a blepharoplasty rid me of my eye wrinkles?

    A blepharoplasty is not designed to remove the wrinkles (sagging brows and Crow's feet) from the eye area. It is designed to remove the excess skin and herniated fat from the lid areas only. There are other procedures available that are area-specific to these complaints, and Dr. Webb can discuss these with you at the time of your initial consultation.

The content of this page is for informational purposes only and shouldn't be taken as medical advice. If you need personalized medical advice, please schedule a consultation with New Horizons Plastic Surgeon Dr. Webb.