David Tauber Archives - DeLuca Plastic Surgery - Albany NY

Combat Facial Aging with DeLuca Plastic Surgery

Facial aging shows up fast. Your face starts showing the signs of your age faster than most other body parts. This is mostly due to environmental factors like exposure to UV light and sunlight, stress, and decreased production of natural oils–which can dry up your skin and reduce its elasticity. 

Fortunately, DeLuca Plastic Surgery offers a number of convenient procedures to help reduce facial aging, including lower face and necklift, upper lid blepharoplasty, CO2 CoolPeel Resurfacing, and IPL photo facial. 

These procedures can not only help you look revitalized and refreshed but they can peel back the signs of aging to help you look younger, and tighter, helping you restore your confidence.

Let’s take a look at some of the most popular procedures focused on facial aging offered here at DeLuca Plastic Surgery, as well as how they can help you achieve the look you desire. 

Lower Facelift and Necklift

Your jawline is one of the first parts of your face to show signs of aging. Not only do lines and wrinkles show up with more prominence, but your jawline in general loses its definition. If that’s not enough, fat and tissue build up, creating loose skin and jowls. 

A lower facelift and necklift focuses on the lower half of your face and jawline, naturally elevating the deep tissues of the face – reversing the effects of gravity, and targeting sagging skin and wrinkles and tightening lax skin, double chin, and more. More importantly, it’s not meant to simply reduce wrinkles–it helps restructure your facial features for an attractive, confident appearance. 

At DeLuca Plastic Surgery we use cutting-edge techniques to be able to perform this surgery in the office under local anesthesia as part of our “Wide Awake Surgery” experience. Patients feel no pain except the brief pinch and sting from the numbing medicine. 

After your procedure, most patients show little to know signs of having a procedure performed. After a couple days, you may see some yellowing on your neck or chest–caused by gravity pulling excess blood and bruising downwards and minor swelling of the neck and upper face. These side effects will subside within 1-2 weeks. 

There are a number of different facelift and necklift procedures available, and not every procedure is the same for every patient. Only you and your surgeon can develop a plan that works for your unique needs. 

If you’ve been thinking about a lower facelift or necklift, schedule your appointment with DeLuca Plastic Surgery today!

Upper Lid Blepharoplasty

Your eyes are another focal point that reveals the signs of aging more prominently. Baggy, droopy eyelids, excess skin, and loose skin around the eyes is caused by a loss of tissue as you age, and can cause you to look older, more tired, and even less attractive. After all, most people look at–if not notice–your eyes first when they look at you.

An upper lid blepharoplasty focuses on tightening the upper eyelid, removing excess skin and sagging for a more youthful, replenished appearance. This surgery is most often performed in the office under a local anesthetic. Nearly pain-free, this technique allows interaction with the surgeon during the procedure that is not available in the OR – ensuring an optimal result. 

After the procedure, most patients experience mild bruising or swelling around the eyes, which can last for around 1-2 weeks. Most patients can expect to see a full recovery within 1-2 months. 

If you think upper blepharoplasty might be an option for you, don’t hesitate to schedule your appointment with DeLuca Plastic Surgery! 

CO2 CoolPeel Resurfacing

Too much time in the sun can leave your skin dried out, loose, and damaged. While procedures like laser resurfacing can refresh the skin, many patients have been looking for a non-invasive solution with less downtime and a shorter recovery. 

The answer is here: CO2 CoolPeel Resurfacing.

CO2 CoolPeel Resurfacing is a new way to rejuvenate your skin by leveraging the body’s healing process to stimulate the growth of new collagen and elastin–giving your skin the revitalized look and feel you’ve been looking for. 

The procedure works by vaporizing tissue in microscopic columns–targeting only certain skin sections, leaving healthy tissue “bridges” to speed up healing. 

After the procedure, patients have a pink glow similar to a day in the sun and are free to return to their daily routines immediately. The CoolPeel REsurfacing targets the deeper tissues – avoiding the crusting and open wounds of traditional peels and CO2 laser resurfacing. 

Ove the course of several treatments, the result is a tighter, more youthful appearance with virtually no downtime!

CO2 CoolPeel Resurfacing is becoming more and more popular as patients rave about virtually no downtime and the stellar, revitalizing results.

Thinking about CO2 CoolPeel Resurfacing? Schedule an appointment with DeLuca Plastic Surgery today!

IPL Photo Facial

It’s not only your skin, but your complexion that takes a beating. Aging, makeup products, pollution, stress, and UV rays all contribute to the complexion in your skin breaking down and losing that youthful, tight glow. 

An Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Photo Facial is a Swiss-army knife for skin and facial aging issues, helping tackle everything from age spots to sun damage.

It works by using short blasts of high-intensity light to target poor coloration and redness of the skin. Patients can expect a feeling similar to a sunburn right after the procedure with crusting of pigmented lesions over the course of several days as the skin heals.

Overall, the procedure involves little to no recovery time and no surgery. 

If you’re looking for a quick, easy way to rejuvenate your skin and reverse the effects of sun damage and aging, look no further than IPL Photo Facials. 

Call and schedule an appointment with DeLuca Plastic Surgery today!

Schedule an Appointment Today!

As you get older, facial aging starts to show. Peel back the years with a selection of fast, easy procedures from the experienced surgeons at DeLuca Plastic Surgery. 

We’ll work with you to develop a treatment plan based on your unique goals, helping you achieve dramatic, long-lasting results to change your life. 

Schedule an in-person, phone-in, or instant email consultation today!


Summer Skin Care Tips to Keep Your Skin Healthy

With summer here, it’s time to talk about summer skin care. Roughly one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime. Most skin cancers are caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays–from the sun, tanning beds, and even sunlamps. 

What’s more, overexposure to UV light can also dehydrate your skin, giving it a wrinkled, cracked, tired appearance. 

The best way to keep your skin healthy–especially during the most UV-intensive months–is to limit your exposure to the sun, but who wants to miss out on all the summer fun?

Let’s examine a few ways you can keep your skin glowing and healthy all summer long without having to coop yourself up inside!

Sunscreen: Your Summer Skin Care Secret Weapon

More than one-third of Americans report getting sunburned at least once a year. 

The best thing you can do for your skin is keep it protected against the sun. Believe it or not, it only takes about 15 minutes for UV rays to start to do damage. Prolonged exposure can cause severe damage, including first degree burns, dehydration, and even increase your risk of heatstroke or heat exhaustion. 

All sunscreens are not created equal–and no sunscreen is 100% effective. Sunscreens are assigned a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) number that corresponds to their effectiveness at blocking UV rays–the higher the SPF, the more protection it offers. 

It’s important to choose the right sunscreen not only for your skin type, but also for the type of outdoor activity you’ll be doing. Most dermatologists recommend a minimum SPF of 30, though those with fairer skin or who spend more time outdoors might want a higher SPF. 

It’s important to remember that sunscreen needs to be applied regularly. Typically, that means you should reapply a coat every two hours, especially if you’re swimming or sweating. 

Sunscreen can be combined with other products, like makeup or lip balm, to offer enhanced protection, though if these products don’t have an SPF of at least 15, their effectiveness is minimal. 

On average, your risk of developing melanoma more than doubles after you’ve had just five sunburns. However, even one sunburn–in childhood or adolescence–can also double your risk of developing skin cancer later in life. 

When it comes to summer skin care, sunscreen is number one.

Keep your skin healthy with the most important first line of defense. Choose the right sunscreen and be sure to apply it regularly!

Revitalisant Hydrating Daily Face Cream

Sunscreen isn’t the only product you can use to keep your skin healthy and hydrated during the most UV-intensive months. 

One of the best ways to keep your skin looking refreshed and healthy all year long is to implement a skin care routine. Since your skin is up to 64% water, the most important thing you can do is keep it hydrated. 

To keep your face well-hydrated, healthy, and looking your best, we recommend Revitalisant Hydrating Daily Face Cream by Ageless Millennial Aesthetics by Estéticoceuticals. 

A non-greasy, quick-absorbing cream that instantly hydrates dry skin, it’s the perfect daily moisturizer for revitalized, youthful-looking skin. Plus, its aloe-infused water and Hyaluronic Acid blended with Vitamins E, C, and B, it will lock in moisture to keep your skin perennially fresh and moisturized. 

If you’re thinking about a daily skin regimen, a great place to start is with Revitalisant Hydrating Daily Face Cream! It’s not only great for summer skin care-it’s great all year round!

Pro-C Illuminating Vitamin C Serum

Another great product to keep your skin looking its best is Pro-C Illuminating Vitamin C Serum

It works at a cellular level to provide an extra layer of defense against UV rays–and everyday pollutants–to keep your skin looking vibrant and beautiful. It’s also infused with citrus stem cells from oranges, which help to further enhance the skin’s elasticity. 

It has Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid, which help reduce the appearance of fine lines, improve firmness, and even skin tone. 

Furthermore, Vitamin C can improve the appearance of skin by reducing wrinkles in the face and neck. It can also protect against sun damage, aid in wound healing, and brighten complexion. 

Hyaluronic Acid, while naturally found in your eyes, skin, and joints, helps provide extra hydration. When used in skin care, it can reduce wrinkles and add fullness and prompt your body to produce more collagen and elastin. That keeps your skin elastic and moisturized and can help reduce scarring. 

Add a few drops to your morning skin care routine before your makeup, moisturizer, or sunscreen, and watch how your skin feels glowing all day long! Perfect for summer skin care or all year!

Exfoliating Coconut and Vanilla Facial Scrub

Don’t forget about exfoliating. Regular exfoliation as part of your skin care routine can help clear away dry or dead skin and make your skin more clear, radiant, and youthful. 

Exfoliating Coconut and Vanilla Facial Scrub can instantly rejuvenate your skin to scrub away impurities, reduce the lines and wrinkles of stress, and nourish and moisturize. 

Importantly, it contains no plastics or microbeads–for a gentler, more refreshing, feel. 

Use it daily as a face scrub or consider leaving it on for 10 or more minutes as a mask. 

Watch how it removes dead skin cells, clears out your pores, and leaves your skin with a refreshing, radiant, youthful glow! 

Matrixyl Rapid Eye Corrector Serum

Your eyes are not only a crucial part of social interactions, but they’re one of the first things on the body that attracts both men and women. 

That means if you have bags, crows feet, wrinkles, or other signs of fatigue or aging around your eyes, you might feel self-conscious or unhappy about your appearance. 

Matrixyl Rapid Eye Corrector Serum can help by minimizing the appearance of those fine lines and wrinkles. It can also reduce the appearance of dark circles and puffiness, as well as even skin tone by rehydrating the whole eye area. 

The eyes start to age before any other part of the body. With more stress, fatigue, and even exposure to UV rays, the skin around your eyes can take a beating. Plus, the skin around the eyes is thinner than the rest of your skin. 

Start Taking Care of Your Skin Today!

You can’t replace your skin, so it’s important to take care of it. 

Let’s recap some ways to keep your skin looking its best this summer while reducing your risk of sunburn, dehydration, and skin damage. 

First, limit your time in the sun. If you know you’re going to spend a long time outside, especially between the prime hours of 10 am and 4 pm, make sure to dress properly and use sunscreen with the proper SPF. 

If you really want to step up your skin care routine, check out the line of high-end products from Ageless Millennial Aesthetics by Estéticoceuticals. See more of their line!

Follow these summer skin care tips and keep your skin looking great all summer!


Putting The Focus on Gender Affirmation Surgery

Gender affirmation surgery is growing in popularity across the country, with the benefits of FTM, Non-Binary, MTF, and facial remodeling surgery helping folks feel more comfortable and confident in their own skin. 

At DeLuca Plastic Surgery, we offer a suite of gender affirmation procedures. We have the experience to help you achieve transformative, lasting results. 

If you’re considering gender affirmation surgery, take a moment to learn about some of the most common procedures we offer. We also answer some of the most frequently asked questions surrounding gender affirmation surgery below. 

If you’re interested in learning more, schedule a consultation with one of our knowledgeable surgeons. We’ll help you get started on the road to living your best, most confident life!  

FTM/Non-Binary Top Surgery

FTM/Non-Binary Top Surgery, is a procedure that masculinizes the chest by removing and reshaping the breast tissue. It is not a uniform procedure, meaning that results differ from patient to patient. 

The specific procedure is influenced by the starting size of the breast as well as patient goals. 

Patients with a smaller starting chest size may be able to have surgery while keeping the nipples and areolas fully intact. Patients with a larger chest size may need to have the nipples and areolas removed, resized, and put back into position. 

Recovery from FTM/Non-Binary top surgery differs by patient, but most patients are able to return to work within two weeks post-procedure. Additionally, most patients will wear a compression wrap around the chest for two weeks post-procedure. 

Best results are typically achieved in patients with a BMI below 30, and patients with smaller starting breast size–as well as patients who have been on hormone therapy or weight loss regimen. 

FTM/Non-Binary top surgery is the perfect solution for transgender men and non-binary people who want to achieve a more masculine, confident look. 

Read more about gender affirmation top surgery!

MTF Top Surgery

MTF top surgery, also known as chest feminization surgery, is a procedure that feminizes the chest by increasing breast size and augmenting the overall shape of the chest. Like FTM top surgery, results may differ by patient. 

Again, the specific procedure depends on the patient’s starting chest size, as well as their individual goals. 

The principles of MTF top surgery are similar to breast augmentation procedures for cisgender women. However, transgender women typically have broader chests with larger, thicker pectoral muscles as well as a shorter distance between the nipples and the crease under the breasts. Notably, this may result in a wider space between the breasts, even with larger implants. 

During the procedure, your surgeon will make incisions near the areola or under the breast, through which they will place implants. 

Patients wear a bra for eight weeks post-procedure, and most patients can return to work within a week. 

MTF top surgery is the perfect solution for transgender  women who want to achieve a more feminine look.  

Read more about MTF top surgery!

Gender Affirmation Facial Remodeling

Gender affirmation facial remodeling may be a suitable solution for transgender women, transgender men, and nonbinary people. 

From forehead reduction to jawline remodeling to cheek & chin augmentation, we offer a full suite of facial remodeling procedures for all patients.

Facial feminization surgery may differ by patient, but typically, it involves a brow lift, forehead bone reduction, hairline lowering, nose reshaping, jaw contouring/reduction, lip lift, chin implants, and a face/neck lift. The results help achieve a more traditionally feminine appearance. 

Facial masculinization surgery also differs by patient, but typically involves forehead and cheek augmentation, rhinoplasty, and chin and jaw implants and recontouring. The results help achieve a more traditionally masculine appearance. 

There is no “one-size-fits-all” approach to gender affirmation facial remodeling. Depending on your unique goals, our surgeons can work with you to develop a treatment plan to help you gain the look you want.

Read more about facial remodeling!

Gender Affirmation Surgery FAQs

As with any procedure, prospective patients are sure to have questions. Below are some of the more frequently asked questions–with answers–regarding gender affirmation surgery procedures. 

Q. How permanent is gender affirmation surgery?

A. Gender affirmation surgeries result in a permanent transformation. This is why patients must meet eligibility requirements (see below). 

Q. Am I eligible for gender affirmation surgery?

A. To be eligible for gender affirmation surgery, patients must be at least 18 years of age, be able to make an informed, conscious decision, and have a physician’s diagnosis of gender dysphoria. Most patients have been transitioning for at least 12 months–including hormone therapy (although hormone treatment is not necessary) and have completed counseling with a licensed professional in gender affirmation healthcare. 

Q. Do I need to stop hormone therapy before my procedure?

A. Typically only transgender female patients will need to stop hormone therapy prior to their procedure. Pausing therapy helps reduce the risk of blood clots associated with estrogen treatments. During your consultation, we will discuss the particulars–including what medications to continue taking or stop taking. 

Q. How long is recovery from gender affirmation surgery?

A. Your recovery will depend on the procedure(s) performed. Full recovery can take up to 6 months or longer. 

Q. Does insurance cover gender affirmation surgery?

A. Federal and state laws prohibit most public and private insurers from discriminating against patients on the basis of sex or gender, meaning they can’t exclude medically-necessary gender-affirming surgery. The amount of out-of-pocket costs vary, however, with your specific insurer and plan, including co-pays and deductibles.

Schedule Your Consultation!

If you think gender affirmation surgery is right for you, the next step is to schedule a consultation with the experienced professionals at DeLuca Plastic Surgery. 

We are proud to offer the most advanced techniques in both FTM/NB surgery and MTF surgery. Our surgeons will develop a personalized treatment plan to meet your individual needs, and we’re always available to answer your questions. 

Schedule an in-person, phone-in, or instant email consultation with DeLuca Plastic Surgery to get started on your transformation today! 


Get Ready For Summer With DeLuca Plastic Surgery!

The warm weather is on the horizon, and it’s time to get your body ready for summer! That means bidding adieu to those baggy sweaters and sweatshirts and soaking up the sunlight in a swimsuit! If you’re worried or concerned about your appearance, enjoying the nice weather is probably the last thing on your mind. 

Fortunately, you’re in luck. 

At DeLuca Plastic Surgery, we offer a full suite of affordable, patient-friendly ways to get the body you want-all year round. Some of the best solutions are CoolSculpting, liposuction, and breast augmentation. 

Let’s take a look at some of the most popular confidence-boosting procedures to get you ready for summer!

CoolSculpting

CoolSculpting doesn’t just have the perfect name for summer. It is the perfect procedure to shed those stubborn, unwanted pounds without dieting or spending grueling hours in the gym. It’s no wonder millions of Americans have successfully undergone CoolSculpting with dazzling, long-lasting results. 

A permanent, nonsurgical alternative for fat reduction, CoolSculpting works by targeting subcutaneous fat cells with freezing temperatures. Importantly, nce the cells freeze, they crystallize and die, resulting in a trimmer, toned appearance. 

Importantly, CoolSculpting isn’t a weight loss procedure. It’s not meant for patients who want to lose an excessive amount of weight. Notably, it’s designed to get rid of stubborn fat that hasn’t responded well to other treatments. 

The most popular target areas for CoolSculpting include the belly and abdomen, thighs, buttocks, arms, chin, and face. Most patients can expect to lose up to 80% of fat in the area targeted by CoolSculpting. Results depend on a number of features, like the size of the target area. Not all patients should expect identical results.

Notably, CoolSculpting patients are cleared to resume day-to-day activities immediately after. Most procedures take anywhere from 30-60 minutes. 

If you’re looking to trim a few inches off your belly, arms, thighs, or elsewhere, CoolSculpting is an attractive, affordable solution!

Read More About CoolSculpting!

Liposuction

Getting rid of fat is one of the best ways to get ready for summer. 

Whereas CoolSculpting is designed to eliminate a smaller volume of fat for mild to moderate results, liposuction removes a more substantial volume of fat for more noticeable contour change than through non-invasive procedures such as CoolSculpting. Liposuction isn’t a weight loss procedure, however, the procedure results in a more dramatically slimmed appearance–toned arms, slimmed thighs, tight abdomen, and more. 

Liposuction is done under general anesthesia. It involves liquefying and removing fat deposits from the body. Like CoolSculpting, the results of liposuction are permanent–and the results can be life-changing. 

Of note, in addition to slimming and reshaping the body by removing excess deposits of fat, liposuction helps tone the body and enhance the contours and curves.

Our surgeons can perform liposuction anywhere on the body with excess fat deposits. The most popular areas to target include the buttocks, belly and abdomen, upper arms and thighs, and face. 

Most patients can return to work within 3-5 days after their procedure, with a full return to normal activities within 4-6 weeks. Most procedures take anywhere from 60-90 minutes. 

If you’re looking to trim those stubborn areas of fat,, liposuction could be the right solution for you. 

Read More About Liposuction!

Breast Augmentation

Summer is the time for swimsuits and tanning. If your breasts have you preferring to cover up, we have a solution for you. 

The most common procedure performed by plastic surgeons in America, breast augmentations represent around 18% of all cosmetic surgeries performed

The goal of breast augmentation is to fill and shape the breasts to achieve your optimal bust. DeLuca Plastic Surgery offers a number of convenient breast augmentation options, from implants to implant removal to solutions for tuberous breasts. 

Depending on the specific breast augmentation procedure performed, patients can expect to return to work within a week, with a return to normal activities within 8 weeks. 

If the perfect bikini body is on your wish list this summer, DeLuca Plastic Surgery offers a full suite of breast augmentation procedures. Our surgeons would be happy to work with you to find the right fit for you to get you ready for summer!

Read More About Breast Augmentation!

Tummy Tuck

Consequently, the last thing you want this summer is a bulging belly. It can be the difference between partaking in any number of fun activities or staying indoors. 

A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, involves removing excess skin and fat from the abdomen. First, your surgeon will make an incision along the lower abdomen and then separate the skin from the abdominal wall, removing any excess fat. After we tighten the muscles and abdominal wall, we reposition the belly button.

Like liposuction and CoolSculpting, a tummy tuck isn’t a weight loss procedure. Importantly, while patients can expect to lose a few pounds, the results are more focused on eliminating excess skin and fat and sculpting the overall aesthetic. 

Most patients can return to work within 2-4 weeks of their surgery, with a return to normal activities within 8 weeks. The duration of the procedure can vary, with most surgeries taking anywhere from 2-3 hours. 

A tummy tuck can give you that boost of confidence to feel more comfortable in a swimsuit or other summer clothing. If you want to show off your shirtless summer body, a tummy tuck could be the right fit for you. 

Read More About Tummy Tuck!

Get Your Confidence Back!

Don’t let your body hold you back from embracing all that life has to offer. Trust the surgeons at DeLuca Plastic Surgery to get you ready for summer with the right procedure for your complex needs. 

Schedule an in-person, phone-in, or instant email consultation with us today. We’ll get you well on your way to embracing the all-new, beautiful, confident you! 


Body Contouring For “Down There”: What You Need to Know

When you think of major body contouring procedures, typically you think of the main surgeries: abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), breast augmentation, and leg, arm, or thigh lifts. But what about the more discrete areas? You know, the area “down there.”

Also known as vaginal rejuvenation, there are a set of procedures designed to aid problems stemming from aesthetic concerns, childbirth, issues with physical activity or intimacy, discomfort from clothing, or even self-consciousness.

With many of these procedures becoming both more popular and widely known, let’s take a minute to talk about who might be a candidate, what body contouring procedures are available, prognosis and recovery, and more!

Procedures For “Down There”

There are a number of procedures that can help relieve problems with vaginal discomfort and self-consciousness, such as labiaplasty, monsplasty, clitoral hood reduction, and labia majora fat grafting.

While not often talked about, even A-list celebrities have boasted about the benefits of vaginal rejuvenation procedures

Take a moment to learn a little bit about each procedure below. 

Labiaplasty

Labiaplasty is quickly becoming one of the more popular, albeit lesser talked about cosmetic procedures, with a more than 200% increase in popularity between 2012 and 2017. 

For many women, the size, shape, or overall aesthetic of the labia majora or labia minora becomes a problem. This can be due to childbirth, genetics, or myriad other reasons. 

During the procedure, your surgeon will first design a skin removal pattern that fits your goals. Using carefully placed incisions, the excess labia is removed to reduce the height of labia minora to lie within the labia majora and/or to reduce excess labia majora and the tissues sutured together with absorbable sutures. Typically, the procedure takes about an hour, and patients can return to normal activity within three to four days and exercise in a a few weeks.

Learn more about labiaplasty here!

Monsplasty

While perhaps not as well-known as labiaplasty, monsplasty remains one of the more in-demand body contouring procedures. 

Whereas labiaplasty aims to reduce the size or alter the shape of the labia, monsplasty helps deal with excess skin and fat in the mons–the hair-bearing, upper part of the vulva. 

During the procedure, your surgeon will make a triangle-shaped incision, from which we remove unwanted fat and excess tissue. The area is then pulled up or “sculpted”, leaving you with a more comfortable appearance. 

Patients can typically return to work about a week post-procedure, with a return to physical activity somewhere between 4-6 weeks. 

Clitoral Hood Reduction

Clitoral hood reduction, whether done on its own or on conjunction with labiaplasty, is another lesser talked about, in-demand body contouring procedure for the area “down there”. 

Also known as a hoodectomy, clitoral hood reduction–as the name suggests–reduces the size and shape of the clitoral hood by removing excess tissue to expose the clitoris and enhance the overall appearance of the vulva.  

During the procedure, your surgeon will remove excess skin and then suture the area up for a symmetrical, aesthetic look. 

Best of all, clitoral hood reduction typically takes no more than an hour and patients can return home the same day, with a return to work in about one week and a return to physical activity within roughly six weeks. 

Labia Majora Fat Grafting

No part of the body is immune to the effects of aging. That includes the genital area. 

Labia majora fat grafting is designed to help restore a youthful appearance to the vulva by taking fat from other areas of the body and using it to restore lost volume. 

Whether performed on its own or in conjunction with labia majora reduction, labia majora fat grafting can rejuvenate the vulva and restore your freedom and self-confidence. 

Patients have little downtime post-procedure, with most patients being able to return to work the same day and return to excercise within two to three days. 

Who is a Good Candidate?

Typically, a good candidate is any woman who has pain or discomfort, or soreness with physical activity or intimacy, as well as women for whom childbirth has significantly altered the size and/or shape of the vagina. 

Who is a good candidate for body contouring procedures “down there” or vaginal rejuvenation differs depending on the procedure(s) performed, age, and a variety of other factors. 

However, there are a few constants to consider for every patient, regardless of the variables. 

•Patients should be in good health and free of any complications that may increase the risk of complications. 

•Talk to your doctor about recent changes in your health, recent illnesses, and medications. 

•Avoid alcohol and smoking for at least four weeks pre-procedure and four weeks post-operative to further reduce your risk of complications and aid in recovery. 

To best decide if you might be a good candidate, consider scheduling a consultation with your surgeon. 

Prognosis & Recovery

Your prognosis and recovery after vaginal rejuvenation body contouring differs depending on procedure.

In most cases, the recovery time is somewhere around a week. However, more comprehensive vaginal rejuvenation may take up to three months or longer to see full results and recovery. 

Like most cosmetic surgery procedures, patients should ice the area and plan to rest immediately post-op. The most common side effects include swelling, redness, pain and discomfort, itching, and a limited range of movement.

Schedule Your Consultation Today!

Rejuvenation of the pubic areas can help you regain your freedom to wear whatever you’d like, enjoy physical activity and intimacy, and restore your self-confidence. 

If you’re interested in improving your area “down there”, schedule an in-person, phone-in, or “instant” email consultation with one of our experienced surgeons to learn more!


Plastic Surgery After Massive Weight Loss: What You Need To Know

a patient after massive weight loss showing off plastic surgery results

If you’ve recently lost a significant bit of weight, you’re probably dealing with some mixed emotions. On one hand, you’re excited about your new, slimmer, healthier look. But for many patients, massive weight loss also comes with excess, sagging skin–and even residual pockets of fat that simply won’t go away. 

After your massive weight loss, you probably have questions. 

Fortunately, the experienced team at DeLuca Plastic Surgery is here for you. We’ve helped thousands of patients obtain dazzling results after dramatic weight loss–and we can help you too!

Learn all about your plastic surgery options after dramatic weight loss, including how long you should wait, what options are available, and tips to make your new look permanent. 

Let’s dive in!

Body Contouring After Massive Weight Loss

Almost three-quarters of American adults are considered overweight or obese. Being overweight dramatically increases your risk of developing adverse cardiovascular conditions like high blood pressure or heart disease. 

Whether you lost a significant bit of weight through diet, exercise, bariatric surgery, or a combination, you should be proud. You have taken active steps to promote your long-term health! 

However, after losing roughly 100 pounds or more, you’re going to notice excess skin left behind. 

That’s because skin stretches with increased weight gain. The more weight you’ve gained, the more your skin will have stretched. More significant weight loss typically means more excess skin. 

Plus, as many patients know, weight loss doesn’t always happen evenly. 

You’ve probably heard the expression, “first on, last off.” Typically, the first place you add fat is the last place from which it comes off. Some stubborn pockets of fat just won’t come off–no matter what you do. 

So what kind of body contouring procedures are right for patients who have undergone massive weight loss?

Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck)

As we gain weight, the composition of tissues, skin, and fat in our bodies changes. That means even after you’ve lost all that weight (and fat), the skin remains stretched and sagging. 

Whether you need to tighten up your abdomen or shed excess fat for a more even, symmetrical look, abdominoplasty might be the perfect solution for you. 

Abdominoplasty–especially for patients who have recently undergone massive weight loss–focuses on removing the excess skin and fat of the abdomen, as well as repairing the weakened abdominal muscles. 

Read more about abdominoplasty here!

Liposuction

Liposuction is the perfect solution to remove those difficult fat deposits, especially after losing weight. 

The reason liposuction after massive weight loss is so impactful is because it can help restore the slim, toned body contours you’re looking for. 

Liposuction can also tighten up muscle tone, remove the appearance of male breasts, and add definition. 

Best of all, liposuction is not just for the abdomen; it can be used to tone up your arms, legs, thighs, and buttocks!

Read more about liposuction here!

Breast augmentation/lift

After losing a significant amount of weight, you’ll probably notice your breasts are flat, deflated, or drooping. 

A breast augmentation or lift can help restore your breasts to a more youthful, healthy appearance. 

By restoring lost volume and optimizing the size, shape, and fullness of your breasts, we can help you regain your confidence!

Read more: which breast procedure is right for you?

Arm lift & thigh lift

Arm lift, or brachioplasty, can remove floppy, loose arm skin and fat, especially for patients who have just undergone massive weight loss. 

The result is toned, sculpted arms that look–and feel–natural, toned, and attractive. 

Read more about arm lifts here!

A thigh lift, or thigh plasty, focuses on restoring a sculpted, toned look to the upper and inner thighs. 

Thigh lifts are often combined with other procedures, like liposuction or arm lifts, for a more symmetrical, comprehensive body restoration. 

Read more about thigh lifts here!

Facelift/neck lift

The face, and the neck, are two of the more noticeable areas where excess skin causes discomfort for patients. 

After massive weight loss, the stretched skin around your face starts to sag, causing pronounced jowls or “turkey neck.”

A facelift or neck lift can tighten up the skin around your face and neck and restore a healthy, youthful appearance to match the rest of your body. 

Read more about facelifts and neck lifts here!

Female body before and after weight loss, diet concept. Woman is measuring waist. Belly and legs in jeans close-up.

How Long Should You Wait After Massive Weight Loss Before Surgery?

After massive weight loss, defined as 100 pounds or more or 40% or more of your total body mass, most patients are anxious to get rid of their excess skin and start living with their slimmer, lighter bodies. 

However, patients should be at or near their target body weight–and have maintained that weight for 3-6 months before considering any additional procedures. 

More importantly, plastic surgery isn’t designed for weight loss. It’s designed to help patients improve their overall body appearance or aesthetic. 

Before considering any cosmetic procedure after weight loss, patients should:

•Be in good health

•Have realistic expectations and a positive outlook

•Have established and maintained weight loss

•Be a non-smoker or abstain from tobacco use

Tips to Keep Your Look Post-Op

Arguably the biggest concern with post-weight loss plastic surgery is keeping the weight off. 

Gaining any or all of the weight back can cancel out all the transformative work–and operations–you’ve worked so hard for. 

With that said, the best tips to keep your post-operative look after massive weight loss are:

•Follow your physicians’ recommendation: whether your bariatric surgeon prescribes a reduced-calorie diet or your plastic surgeon recommends rest and recovery, listen to what they say!

•Diet: especially if you’ve had bariatric surgery, you’ll notice you simply can’t eat as much as you could when you were at a heavier weight. However, failure to adhere to a healthy, lower-calorie diet can cause the stomach to swell. Be sure to drink lots of water and eat lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy proteins. 

•Exercise: once you’ve recovered from your plastic surgery procedures, you should strive for at least 30 minutes of mild-to-moderate exercise every day. This is especially important if you’re consuming more calories than recommended. Exercise can help you burn off everything you take in!

•Follow up with your physicians: while the specific care you’ll need depends on the procedure(s) performed, it’s important to attend all your follow-up appointments. Your doctor will be able to ensure you’re charting the right course for long-term health and body maintenance. 

Ready For Your New Look? Schedule A Consultation Today!

The results from plastic surgery after massive weight loss can be life-changing. 

However, it’s important to remember that it’s not a magic fix: patients still need to adhere to dietary and lifestyle changes in order to make their body transformation stick. 

If you’ve recently lost a significant amount of weight and are considering cosmetic procedure(s) to achieve the look you want, DeLuca Plastic Surgery can guide you through the process from start to finish. 

Schedule an in-person, phone-in, or “instant” email consultation today, and be well on your way to the body of your dreams!


New Year, New You: Procedures to Start The Year Fresh

a smiling, radiant woman showing how to make the most of the new year

Now that you’ve cleaned up the holiday decorations, spent time with the whole family, and turned the calendar over to 2023, what’s next? Wouldn’t it be nice to start the new year with a new you?

Regardless of whether it’s one of your new year’s resolutions or not, just about everyone wants to look better. In fact, year after year, among the most common goals for the new year are to exercise more, lose weight, and eat healthier. 

The common link? 

A transformation to a healthier, more attractive face–or body–that both inspires and evokes confidence. 

For many folks, working out, eating healthy, and losing weight isn’t as easy as they sound. 

On the other hand, cosmetic procedures like a mini facelift or fillers, Botox, and even breast augmentations can provide that transformation to a new you!

Let’s examine how DeLuca Plastic Surgery can help you find the new you in 2023!

New Year, New Breasts: Could Breast Augmentation Be Right For You?

an example of a patient's results after a breast augmentation procedure for the new year

You want to make the new year the best year yet. What better way than a procedure that can give you the dream breasts you’ve always wanted?

As it turns out, a breast augmentation procedure can not only help you start the year with more confidence but give you the dream curves, cleavage, and bust size you’ve been looking for!

Let’s take a look at some of the benefits!

Each breast enhancement procedure starts with the patient’s goals in mind, meaning we tailor each procedure down to the specifics of each individual case

•Using the Mentor breast implant sizing system, patients can “try on” different implants to gauge the right look and feel

•DeLuca Plastic Surgery offers 3D imaging for the most accurate preview of patients’ post-operative results

•In most cases, recovery time is between 6-8 weeks, meaning patients can take advantage of winter downtime and achieve an optimal look by spring

This year will undoubtedly be full of exciting events–parties, birthdays, holidays, etc. Wouldn’t it be nice to go into the bulk of the year with a body you can feel good about?

Schedule your free consultation and get started on your body transformation today!

Learn more about breast augmentation here!

Mini Facelift: Face The New Year With Confidence

a smiling young woman displaying the kind of confidence you'll feel after a cosmetic procedure at DeLuca Plastic Surgery

Everyone wants to look as young as they feel. A mini facelift is a perfect procedure to help you peel back the years for that refreshing, radiant, youthful glow. 

Compared to a traditional facelift, a mini facelift is less-invasive, quicker, and focuses more on combating the most visible signs of aging–sagging, creases, wrinkles, and even the start of jowls. 

During your mini facelift procedure, we’ll primarily focus on the cheekbone, jowls, and upper neck. Your surgeon will make small incisions near the hairline or behind the ear, tightening the skin and offsetting the signs of early aging. 

Best of all, the natural folds of the skin hide the scars–meaning a mini facelift is the perfect procedure for those looking for a way to look younger without showing obvious signs of plastic surgery. 

As the years pass, diet and exercise sometimes are not enough to stop the signs of aging. Fortunately, a mini facelift is a quick, easy way to provide relief–and confidence.

Plus, the effects of a mini facelift procedure can last up to 10 years!

The start of the year is a perfect time to reverse the effects of gravity.

Schedule your consultation today and take the first step towards a younger, more confident you!

Read more about what kind of facelift procedure is right for you!

Fillers: A Quick Boost to Start The Year

a patient receiving dermal filler treatment to get ready for the new year

Another great way to peel back the first signs of aging is through facial fillers, such as hyaluronic acid. The results are nearly instantaneous–and both the procedure itself and the recovery take minimal time, meaning it’s the perfect procedure for those with a busy schedule. 

The best part?

Fillers can be used on their own–or in conjunction with Botox injections–to reduce lost volume, smooth wrinkle lines, and enhance facial contours without surgery, scarring, or months of rest and downtime.

Each facial filler product is formulated differently, meaning it can be targeted to different areas of the face and different depths within the skin.  

Go into the rest of the year with a younger, healthier face, and look your best at all the big events coming up this year!

Learn more about fillers here!

Botox: A New Year’s Favorite

a patient receiving botox treatments

Winter is the most popular month nationwide for Botox. 

That’s because most Botox procedures can be performed in as little as 10 minutes. Patients often see results in just a few days. Plus, the cooler weather and relative lack of sunlight provide the perfect environment to settle into a new look. 

The results of Botox treatments help to reverse the obvious signs of aging, like wrinkles, crease lines, and sagging. They do this by blocking chemical signals that relax or “sag” the skin. 

Those effects can last anywhere from 3-6 months. For best results, and to maintain your best look all year, seek treatment early and often. 

At DeLuca Plastic Surgery, we’ve performed thousands of Botox and filler injections. We can help find the right treatment to suit your goals and get you feeling like a better, younger you. 

Schedule a consultation today and learn more about why Botox is one of the most popular, non-surgical alternatives to facelifts. 

Read more about how Botox & Fillers can help you feel like a new you!

Transform to The New You!

a young woman celebrating the new year by transforming into a new better version of herself

Unfortunately, most new year’s resolutions fail

If you’ve been thinking of hitting the gym more often, cutting back on your favorite foods, or shedding unwanted pounds the old-fashioned way, consider a more feasible alternative: a cosmetic procedure at DeLuca Plastic Surgery!

Our experienced, compassionate surgeons will work with you to get you the results you want. Whether you’re looking for fuller breasts, fewer signs of aging, or simply a look you can feel good about, we’re here to help you achieve your goals. 

Schedule an in-person, phone-in, or instant email consultation today, and be on your way to making 2023 your best year yet!


Early Fall: The Best Time For “Pick-Me-Up” Procedures?

a smiling couple outside in fall, perfect candidates for a pick-me-up procedure at DeLuca Plastic Surgery

As the warm weather heads out, we’re all starting to bundle up, which means it’s time to put your summer body under a cozy sweater, baggy sweatshirt, or snuggly jacket. With your body covered, where will everyone be looking? At your face of course! Time for a “pick-me-up” procedure!

That’s why early fall is the best time for quick, “pick-me-up” procedures like a mini facelift, eyelid lift, forehead/eyebrow lift, chin augmentation, non-surgical rhinoplasty, or even Botox and fillers. Not only will you look your best for the holiday season, but many procedures’ results actually improve when patients avoid excessive sun exposure!

If you’ve been thinking about a “pick-me-up” procedure to tighten up for Thanksgiving, the holidays, or New Year’s, now is the time! 

Eyelid & Eyebrow/Forehead Lift

Whether winter, spring, summer, or fall, if you’re interacting with people face-to-face, they will be looking at your eyes. If you have saggy eyelids, visible bags, crow’s feet, or any other visible signs of aging, you might be in a less festive mood–especially around the holidays. 

Your forehead is the same. As we age, the skin on our forehead thins, making wrinkle lines–and eyebrow lowering–more noticeable. A face warmer (or a mask) might cover your nose, mouth, and chin, but it won’t cover your eyes and forehead. 

Fortunately, a quick procedure like an eyelid lift or eyebrow/forehead lift will restore your youthful look–and your confidence. With both procedures, you can be in and out in as little as one hour. 

Plus, they’re typically performed under local anesthesia, which means less postoperative discomfort/nausea and a lower overall cost. Best of all, most patients are able to return to work and normal activity – within 10-14 days. 

The eyes are the window to the soul, and what better time to spruce them up than right before the holidays?

Mini Facelift

a perfect candidate for a pick-me-up procedure like a mini facelift, botox, or eyebrow lift.

Fall marks the official start of facelift season. That’s because having a facelift procedure in early/mid-fall allows ample recovery time, which falls right in the sweet spot of downtime between back-to-school and Thanksgiving. 

Whereas a full facelift can take as long as five hours, a mini facelift can typically be completed in under two hours. That’s because a mini facelift – in addition to being less invasive – targets only the jowls and upper neck. During the procedure, your surgeon will tighten the lower face by pulling the skin and tissue back and outwards towards the ear. 

See Also: What’s the difference between a facelift and a mini-facelift?

Most mini facelift patients report minimal-to-no discomfort post-procedure, which we can perform in-office under local anesthesia. Patients can usually return to work and normal activity within two weeks–with optimal results visible in about two-three months. 

Show your family and friends your best face for Thanksgiving with a mini-facelift!

Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty

Chances are, your nose is going to get red, stuffy, or both this fall and winter. If you’re already self-conscious about it, you might be inclined to stay home until the weather warms up again. If that doesn’t sound like fun, non-surgical rhinoplasty is the perfect “pick-me-up” in early fall. 

Also called liquid rhinoplasty, the procedure differs from a traditional “nose-job” in that it involves injecting a filler to temporarily alter the shape and structure of the nose. 

Non-surgical rhinoplasty can be performed in as little as 15 minutes, with no anesthesia necessary, and patients can return to work and normal activity on the same day as the procedure. Depending on the filler used, results can last anywhere from six months to three years. 

Chin Augmentation

Chin augmentations have been called “the new nose job” as they surge in popularity. Especially during COVID – while we stared at each other’s faces over Zoom, patients flocked in droves to sharpen, tone, and perfect their chins. After all, the chin (and cheekbones) frame the face! 

What’s more, a chin augmentation can restore confidence to patients with a soft or undeveloped jawline, which enhances the profile and drastically improves the overall aesthetic of the head and face – and patients’ self esteem. Best of all, unlike temporary solutions like Juvederm, chin augmentation is designed to be a one-time, lasting solution. 

Chin augmentations are an outpatient surgery done under general anesthesia. Associated with minimal bruising and swelling, patients return to work and normal activities within five to seven days post-procedure. 

Be cheery, bright, and confident for the holidays with a chin augmentation!

Botox

a patient preparing for a botox treatment

Fall is also one of the most popular times of the year for Botox treatments. Too much sun exposure during the summer can lead to wrinkles, lines, and premature signs of aging on the face. Botox restores, revitalizes, and rejuvenates the skin to repair the UV damage. 

Botox treatments can take as little as ten minutes, requiring no anesthesia, and patients can return to work and normal activities right away. Patients should avoid exercise/vigorous activity for ~24 hours post-procedure.

There’s no surprise that so many patients choose late summer and early fall for a quick “pick-me-up” Botox treatment. They’re quick, painless, and affordable, and patients love them!

See Also: Botox Basics

Fillers

Like Botox, injectable dermal fillers can provide immediate, temporary relief for thinning lips, facial creases or wrinkle lines, and even visible scarring.

Again, like Botox, filler procedures typically take less than a half hour, require no anesthesia, and allow patients to return to work and normal activities right away. 

A quick filler can help you attain a more youthful look–as results show up almost right away–and like Botox, are temporary. Depending on the type of filler and where it is placed, results last anywhere from a few months to nearly 2 years. 

Open Availability With Dr. Yan!

Need another incentive for a quick “pick-me-up” procedure? We have open availability–and in some cases, same-day availability, with Dr. Yan for most procedures.

Call or go online to schedule an in-person or phone-in consultation with our office today! 

Can’t make it in person? Dr. Yan offers “instant” virtual email consultations! Simply upload your photos and the procedure you’re looking for and within 24-48 hours, we will email you with an assessment, quote, and available surgery dates. You can even submit multiple requests for multiple procedures! 

Look your best for Thanksgiving and the holidays and take advantage of the fall downtime with a quick “pick-me-up” procedure. Get in touch with us today! 


Feel Your Best in Your Summer Skin!

The summer months are a time for sun-kissed skin, showing off your glistening, bronzed summer body, and feeling your best and most confident. At the same time, too much exposure to the sun can have a major detrimental impact on your summer skin. 

Let’s take a look at how to keep your skin safe and healthy during the most UV-intensive summer months!

Taking Care of Your Skin

Your skin makes up about 15% of your total body weight. Though it may grow, stretch, blemish, scar, or otherwise change, you only get one set in a lifetime. But did you know the outermost layer of skin–the epidermis–is actually made up of a bunch of dead cells?

It actually gets its strength and suppleness from the dense makeup of keratin–a complex protein–found in those cells. You can also find keratin in the organs, glands, hair, and nails.

a smiling young man with healthy, radiant, glowing skin

The biggest danger to healthy skin is overexposure to the sun. In fact, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer during their lifetime. Exposure to UV rays, combined with a lack of preventative, hydrating measures (which can be found below), can lead to irreversible skin damage–including premature aging, wrinkles, loss of elasticity, increased risk of skin cancer, and even increased risk of cataracts

That’s because the sun’s UV rays–especially in summer–easily break down collagen and other vital skin components. When sunlight hits unprotected skin, it damages healthy cells. Over time, the signs of damage become more noticeable. Some people even develop more freckles, age spots, skin growths, and even skin cancer. 

How can you keep your skin safe, strong, and healthy? Combined with a healthy skin care regimen, the answer is sunscreen!

The Importance of Sunscreen

Your skin gets bombarded by harmful UV rays on a daily basis, and even more so in the summer. The very first line of defense is a sunscreen with a good sun protection factor or SPF. While most people mistakenly believe SPF refers to the amount of time one can spend in the sun, it actually refers to the amount of UV exposure. As SPF value increases, so does protection against sunburn and additional skin damage. 

Selecting the proper sunscreen depends on myriad factors, including time in the sun, time of day, amount of sunscreen applied, and even your skin type. The American Cancer Society recommends a sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection, SPF of 30 or higher, and reapplication of water-resistant sunscreen (water-resistant ≠ waterproof). 

In addition to the regular application of sunscreen, you should also cover up as much as possible if you’re going to be in the sun for an extended period of time. That can include wearing covering clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses–especially those that block at least 99% of UV light.

Look to limit your time in the sun between 10 am and 4 pm–when UV rays are at their strongest. Finally, avoid artificial tanning beds and sunlamps–as both can cause serious, long-term skin damage and contribute to skin cancer. 

Summer Skin Care Tips

Summer skincare doesn’t begin and end with sunscreen and UV protection protocols. In addition to sunscreen, the cornerstones of healthy skin are cleansing, detoxification, antioxidants, Vitamin A, and hydration. In other words, sunscreen is just one part of keeping your skin radiant, beautiful, and healthy during the summer. 

a young woman applying sunscreen to her back shoulder

Cleansing, detoxifying, hydrating, and antioxidizing your skin starts at night. Essentially, you work off the stress, wear, and grime of the day with a blend of premium skincare products, like Ageless Millenial Aesthetics by Estéticoceuticals. Removing toxins, exfoliating, and hydrating your skin is the key to starting each new day with a blank canvas. 

Daytime skincare products, like the Days skincare line, help protect against the damaging rays of the sun, prevent cellular damage, and rehydrate and restore suppleness to the delicate tissues of the eyelids and lips.

A combination daytime/nighttime skincare regimen works in concert to help to improve skin turnover, repair the damaging effects of pollution and sun exposure, smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and hydrate the skin. That means healthy, glowing skin not only in the UV-intensive summer months but in the cold, dry winter months as well!

Read More About Skin Care Tips!

Keep Your Skin Healthy All Year Long!

Your skin lasts forever. While it’s tempting to have a toned, tanned body all year long, there are good and bad ways of going about it. In other words, there’s no reason you can’t feel your best all year long–as long as you do it safely. 

Choose and maintain a skin care regimen, take care to apply sunscreen and wear sunglasses/sun protection when out in the sun, and avoid artificial tanning salons.

Together, that’s a healthy starting point for soaking up rays and getting the most out of what should be a beautiful summer! 

Want to be the first to hear important news, read informative blog posts, and get insightful, helpful tips?

Join our mailing list to receive these delivered to your inbox weekly! 


Pre and Post-Op: What to Know About Your Body Procedure

Obtaining a beautiful, healthier body is easier than you might think. Whether you’ve become dissatisfied with your appearance due to age, genetics, pregnancy, or the rigors of life, cosmetic body procedures can help restore a tighter, more youthful look–and your self-confidence! If you’ve been thinking about a cosmetic procedure, such as liposuction, tummy tuck, mommy makeover, or body contouring, here’s what you need to know to prepare for best results, including what to do and what to expect before, during, and after your procedure. 

a candidate for liposuction or tummy tuck

Early Pre-Op: First Steps

So you’ve noticed some extra skin-or perhaps things simply aren’t as tight and young-looking as they once were. If diet, exercise, and other lifestyle changes aren’t enough, the next step is a consultation with your surgeon. We’ll go over all the options available to you, including:

-Tummy Tuck

-Liposuction

-Mommy Makeover

-Labiaplasty

-Brazilian Butt Lift

-Thigh Lift

-Arm Lift

-Gynecomastia Correction

If any of the above is a fit, it’s time to plan your surgery date and start preparing for your procedure. 

Like for any other procedure, smokers should aim to stop nicotine usage for at least 4 weeks pre-procedure and stay smoke-free for 4 weeks post-procedure to reduce the risk of complications like infection. Nicotine use may also cause nausea, aggravate the lungs, and decrease blood flow during surgery–all of which puts your body at more risk of heart attack or stroke. 

Your surgical team will also advise on what medications to continue or discontinue. Typically, patients are advised against taking NSAIDS, blood thinners, and Vitamin C, herbal, or weight-loss supplements for at least 2-4 weeks pre-procedure. Be sure to go over your complete list of medications and supplements with your surgical team to avoid potential interactions with anesthesia and/or post-operative prescribed medication. 

Finally, depending on the procedure being performed, patients may be asked to complete lab work (such as CBC, blood chemistry tests, or liver function panel) in order to be cleared for surgery. Your surgeon may also ask for body scans or imaging, such as MRI, CT, or X-Ray. 

Pre-Op: Just Before Surgery

The best time to plan your recovery is just before your procedure. Recovery time may vary depending on the procedure, from as little as 5-7 days for liposuction or up to 6 weeks for a Brazilian Butt Lift.

In the days leading up to your surgery, fill any prescriptions you’ll need post-op, plan out easy meals, and clear your schedule so you can rest and recuperate. It can also help to have someone nearby for the first 24 hours post-op to help with basic tasks and ensure the patient can rest comfortably. 

Additionally, patients should abstain from alcohol for roughly 72 hours before their procedure, as it can affect their immune system.

The Day of the Procedure

If you have questions or concerns, don’t wait until the day of your procedure to bring them up. Remember, communication and transparency are crucial to both a quick recovery and best results. 

Your surgeon will tell you what medications you can and cannot take leading up to, directly before, and after your procedure, including the morning of. Be sure to follow your surgeon’s recommendations regarding food and drink; most procedures don’t permit eating or drinking after midnight the night before your procedure. 

Dress comfortably and avoid wearing jewelry. Have your insurance card and all proper documents handy, as well as your personal effects securely organized. 

Make arrangements for someone to drive you both to and from your procedure, as well as to stay nearby for at least the first 24 hours so you can rest and focus on your recovery. Try to arrive at our facility to give yourself enough time to adequately check-in and prepare for your procedure. 

Post-Op: Just After Surgery

After your procedure, the most common side effects are mild discomfort, bruising, swelling, and redness. The most important immediate treatments are rest and ice. We recommend taking any prescribed pain medication before you start to feel pain and/or discomfort. Preventing pain is easier than trying to manage it. 

a patient pulling up their shirt to reveal surgeons markings before a body procedure

Depending on which procedure you had (namely liposuction, Brazilian Butt Lift, and arm lift), your surgeon may provide a compression garment to help the skin tighten up and facilitate healing. These also reduce swelling and provide much-needed support to core muscles as part of the healing process. Your surgeon will provide instructions, including how to wear it and how long to wear it. 

Once our team has determined it’s safe, you can return home. As mentioned, it’s important to have someone to drive you home and stay with you so you can rest and recover. 

Within a few days post-procedure, your doctor will check your bandages, assess your condition, and ensure you’re well on your way to optimal recovery. Make sure to let your doctor know if you’re experiencing any significant pain or discomfort, as these may be signs of something serious.  

Post-Op: What to Expect After Your Procedure

You should expect soreness, swelling, and mild discomfort for at least a few weeks post-procedure. It’s normal to experience fatigue or tiredness as part of the healing process; it can take 5-6 weeks for you to return to your pre-procedure energy levels. 

Try to walk a little each day and remember to stay hydrated. Avoid strenuous activity such as exercise or heavy lifting. Start with light activity and bit-by-bit, ramp up the intensity, but avoid abdominal exercises and stay away from bicycle riding, jogging, weight lifting, and aerobics for at least 6-8 weeks. 

Recovery from body procedures can range anywhere from a few days to 6 weeks or more. Typically, however, patients can return to work within one week of the procedure (depending on how strenuous the job is). Again, depending on what procedure you had, there are various limitations. For example, labiaplasty patients are advised against sexual intercourse for at least 6-8 weeks post-procedure. 

Your surgeon will also schedule a follow-up appointment (within a week of the initial procedure) to monitor your progress and recovery, as well as to finalize any parts of the procedure. It is possible you may need an additional follow-up procedure to correct any issues that arise from the first surgery or if you’re not satisfied with your initial results. However, it may take months before you can accurately determine your satisfaction with your new look. 

Women Who May Become Pregnant

A common question often asked is whether or not women who may become pregnant again should undergo cosmetic surgery like liposuction, tummy tuck, or a mommy makeover. While there is no inherent harm to fertility, we typically advise patients to wait until they’re done having children. The significant changes that occur during pregnancy often counteract the work done by cosmetic procedures, meaning patients often require revisional procedures if they become pregnant again after surgery. 

Pre and Post-Op Recap

Early pre-op: 

Quit smoking & nicotine use. 

Talk to your doctor about what medications you can and cannot use. 

Complete lab work.

Ask any questions/clear any concerns. 

Late pre-op

No alcohol for 72 hours pre-procedure.

Fill any prescriptions you need post-op. 

Clear out your schedule to prepare for rest and recovery. 

Day of procedure:

Arrive early enough to check in and prepare for your procedure.

Dress comfortably, and avoid jewelry. 

Have insurance card/important documents handy. 

Days-weeks post-op:

Rest & ice.

Wear compression garments

Avoid strenuous activity for ~ one-week post-procedure. 

Follow up appointments with your team.

Love your new body!

Ready For Your Procedure? Schedule Today!

At DeLuca Plastic Surgery, the difference is in the details. Whether you’re looking to regain your pre-pregnancy body or roll back the years, our team of experienced professionals has the proven results you’re looking for. From the moment you meet with us for your consultation to the moment you revel in your new look after your procedure, you’ll feel comfortable, listened to, and taken care of. Get in touch with us today to schedule your in-person consultation, phone-in consultation, or instant email consultation, and start on the road to loving your new body!


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