Frequently Asked Questions

What are the latest techniques in liposuction?

The latest advances in liposuction provide patients with more effective results and a faster recovery time. These techniques include the tumescent technique, super-wet technique, ultrasound-assisted lipoplasty (UAL) and power-assisted liposuction.

The tumescent technique involves injecting areas of excess fat with a large amount of anesthetic liquid before proceeding with liposuction. The liquid causes the compartments of fat to become swollen and firm or “tumesced.” Since the fat compartments have expanded, they are easier to distinguish, allowing for smoother and more even results. The tumescent technique may last as long as 4 to 5 hours.

The super wet technique is similar to the tumescent technique, as it also requires the injection of anesthetic liquid. The difference is that significantly less volume is used – about a third as much. The surgery can be performed in about 1 to 2 hours.

During ultrasound-assisted lipoplasty, the cannula emits high frequency sound waves to liquefy fat cells and facilitate low-level aspiration. The use of ultrasonic energy allows for more precision in less fatty areas that have high amounts of muscles and tendons, as it acts primarily on the fat cells and has no effect on the vascular, nervous, or connective tissues. Surgery time is longer than traditional liposuction but is shorter than the tumescent technique.

Power-assisted liposuction uses a cannula that vibrates rather than one that is manually manipulated. This vibrating cannula whirs at a high enough speed to create a particularly high frequency vibration. This disrupts the fat cells, releasing them from the surrounding tissue and making them easier to suction out.

Power-assisted liposuction is generally associated with fewer complications, more precise sculpting, smaller incisions, shorter surgical times, and less trauma to the surrounding tissues. It is most useful for smaller areas that need minimal fat removed such as the chin, under the arms, the outer breasts, the belly, hips, flanks, and thighs.

There are some new procedures and techniques on the market called Smartlipo, laser lipo, vaser lipo, non-surgical liposuction, and others that are employed to reduce smaller areas of fat.

Is liposuction best suited for me

Liposuction is well-suited for women and men who are of relatively normal weight but have isolated pockets of fat that do not respond to traditional weight loss methods or may be an inherent trait.

We find that best results are achieved on patients with good skin tone and elasticity, regardless of age. As with all procedures, the ideal patient is one who is in reasonably good physical and psychological condition and one who has realistic expectations.

How is liposuction performed?

Although there are different techniques, all forms of liposuction involve a tube called a cannula that is connected to a vacuum machine. It is inserted into fatty tissue through tiny incisions placed in inconspicuous locations on the skin. The cannula breaks apart unwanted fatty deposits and sucks out fatty tissue as the surgeon gently moves it around beneath the skin.

Will liposuction help me lose weight?

No. Liposuction should not be considered a substitute for weight loss or a treatment for obesity. Rather, the best results are obtained when liposuction is undertaken in conjunction with a commitment to a healthy diet and a regular routine of exercise.

Will liposuction treat my cellulite?

Generally speaking, liposuction is not intended to treat cellulite, although some patients do notice an improvement in the appearance of cellulite after the fat cells are removed.

Is fat removal permanent?

Yes. Fat removed by liposuction is permanent. If you maintain a reasonable body weight, it should not come back. Should you gain weight after liposuction, it goes to the fat cells that remain in your body. The localized fatty deposits that existed prior to liposuction can no longer balloon up out of proportion to the surrounding areas.

Can the procedure be performed in different areas at the same time or in conjunction with other surgeries?

This is dependent on a number of factors, including the liposuction technique used. Generally, liposuction using most techniques can be performed on several areas of the body at the same time, and, in certain cases, can also be done in conjunction with other aesthetic procedures.

How long does liposuction take?

The time required to perform liposuction may vary considerably, depending on the size of the area, the amount of fat being removed, the type of anesthesia used, and the technique used.

Can I recuperate at home?

Yes. Liposuction, particularly small-volume liposuction, is done on an outpatient basis at a certified ambulatory surgery center or hospital depending upon local regulation. However, if a large volume of fat will be extracted, or if the liposuction is performed in conjunction with other procedures, a stay in a hospital or overnight facility may be required.

What should I expect after surgery?

Even though the latest techniques reduce some post-operative discomforts, it is normal to still experience some pain, burning, swelling, bleeding, and temporary numbness. These can be controlled with medication prescribed by your MAXiM-affiliated surgeon.

Mobility is encouraged as soon as possible to reduce swelling and prevent blood clots. Although most of the bruising and swelling usually disappears within three weeks, some swelling may remain for six months or more.

When can I resume my regular activities?

Most patients begin to feel better and resume less strenuous daily activities after about a week or two. Activities requiring heavy physical exertion should be avoided for about a month as your body continues to heal.

How is a tummy tuck performed?

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is performed under general anesthesia. During the surgery, an incision is made within the “bikini” or “boxer” line under the abdomen. This makes the scar inconspicuous under clothes following the procedure.

Excess skin and fat from the abdominal wall between the pubic area and the umbilicus (navel) is then extracted. The skin of the abdominal wall at the level of the umbilicus is then drawn down to suture it to the pubic level. Any looseness of the muscles of the abdominal wall is repaired at the same time.

What is a partial, or mini, tummy tuck?

Some patients opt to have a “mini abdominoplasty” which involves shorter scars and, depending on your physique, may afford similar results. A mini-tummy tuck may be chosen because of less excess skin and fat to be removed, the recovery time, costs, and because potential side effects are less than those of a full tummy tuck procedure.

How long does a mini-abdominoplasty take?

The procedure takes around 3 hours to perform and patients may be sent home the same day or stay in a hospital overnight for post-operative recovery and care.

Can other procedures be performed in conjunction with a tummy tuck?

Yes. Liposuction may be carried out during a tummy tuck to thin the abdominal wall or as a separate procedure either before or after the abdominoplasty.

Will a tummy tuck help me control my weight?

No. Abdominoplasty will not stop you from gaining weight in the future and should not be sought as a treatment for weight control.

If I plan to get pregnant again, could I still be a candidate for a tummy tuck?

Most surgeons do not recommend complete or partial tummy tucks for women who are planning future pregnancies due to the fact that pregnancy may undo most of the benefits of the operation. They may, instead, recommend other procedures such as liposuction of the abdomen that may help achieve your aesthetic goals.

What should I expect after surgery?

Initially you will have swelling, bruising, and noticeable scars. Some patients heal better and scar less than others, but all scars are red initially and will fade in time. Typically, in a complete abdominoplasty, your MAXiM-affiliated surgeon will use drainage tubes to remove excess fluid. These may be removed 2 days after surgery depending on the drainage. You will need to wear a supporting garment for 6 to 8 weeks to ensure a smooth result.

For minimal-incision tummy tucks, it is normal to experience discomfort for several days post-operatively. Though swelling of the abdomen may take between 7 to 10 days to resolve, you should be able to walk a day after the surgery and in fact, mobility is encouraged by your MAXiM-affiliated surgeon.

For any tummy tuck technique, it is common to have diminished sensation on the skin of the operated area. The mild numbness will gradually return over a number of months.

How long does a full tummy tuck take?

A complete abdominoplasty usually takes 2-5 hours, depending on the extent of work required.  A mini abdominoplasty may take an hour or two.

Does abdominoplasty require hospital admittance?

Due to recent developments in plastic surgery, a complete abdominoplasty can now be done on an out-patient basis. Some patients may consider being admitted after the surgery. If this is the case, expect a hospital stay of at least 1 to 2 days.

A minimal-incision tummy tuck is also performed on an outpatient basis in a certified ambulatory surgical center or hospital depending upon local regulations, and patients may recuperate at home.

How long will it take for me to return to work?

Some patients return to work about 7 to 10 days after surgery while for others, recovery is a slower process, taking several weeks to regain full mobility.

How do I know if I am a candidate for breast augmentation?

The decision to undergo breast augmentation is a very personal one. At MAXiM, your surgeon will guide you through your decision with a consultation and discussion of your goals and desires. Good candidates for breast augmentation are both physically and emotionally healthy and have realistic expectations.

Is there an age requirement for breast augmentation?

Generally speaking, those who wish to undergo breast augmentation must be at least 18 years of age.

How are breast implants inserted?

An incision is required to place breast implants for breast augmentation. The incision can be done through four methods that result in minimal scarring:

• Periareolar (nipple-areola)
• Inframammary (lower breast crease)
• Axillary (underarm)
• Transumbilical (navel)

Your MAXiM-affiliated surgeon will discuss the merits of these different techniques and make a recommendation based on your individual needs.

How long does breast augmentation take?

Breast augmentation surgery may range from 1-3 hours. The duration of the procedure depends upon several factors, including the surgical approach used, breast implant type, and the extent or level of correction.

Will I need to stay overnight in a hospital?

Typically, no. A regular augmentation mammoplasty, by itself, is usually an outpatient procedure that can be performed in a certified ambulatory surgery center or hospital depending upon local regulatory guidelines.

In unusual circumstances, hospitalization may be required but this is rare.

What should I expect after surgery?

A certain degree of swelling and bruising is normal after breast augmentation. Mild discomfort such as temporary breast soreness or change in nipple sensation may be controlled with medication prescribed by your MAXiM-affiliated surgeon. Sensitivity to stimulation may be expected for a few weeks.

When can I resume my regular activities?

This may vary by patient but in general, you may resume regular activities (e.g., work/school) about a week after surgery. You may need longer time off work or school if it entails heavy physical exertion.

Am I a candidate for a breast lift?

Through a private consultation and discussion of your goals, your MAXiM-affiliated surgeon will determine whether a breast lift is the ideal procedure for you.

Good candidates are healthy women with noticeably less breast volume than previous years who do not intend to lose a lot of weight, get pregnant, or breastfeed. It is important to meet with one of our surgeons to understand the indications for a breast lift.

Can I still nurse in the future?

Yes. Just like in other breast-enhancing surgical procedures, a mastopexy does not typically interfere with a woman’s ability to breastfeed.

What should I expect after surgery?

Recovery is different for each patient. Discomfort such as bruising, swelling, and dry skin is normal after the procedure. You may also experience numbness in your nipples and breast skin but it should fade in a few weeks, sometimes more.

With regards to the incision, the scars may be lumpy and red for a few months, and then become gradually less obvious, sometimes even fading to thin, white lines.

How long before I can return to normal activity?

Resuming daily activities such as work or school will vary by patient. Your MAXiM-affiliated surgeon will give you instructions about returning to your normal routine and what activities to avoid. In general, you should allow a week or more before going back to work or school.

Can breast augmentation be performed in conjunction with a breast lift?

Yes. A breast augmentation can be performed in conjunction with breast lift. Your individual circumstances will determine if the breast lift and augmentation would be performed in one or two stages.

If performed in one stage, the implants may be placed during the same surgery as the mastopexy is performed. Alternatively, the breast lift could be done on one day, with the implants inserted at a later date. You and your MAXiM-affiliated surgeon will review these options and make a decision during your consultation and pre-operative process.

What types of facelift procedures are available?

There are several available facelift techniques and styles designed to meet your specific aesthetic goals. 

A full facelift, also known as a standard facelift, traditional facelift, or conventional facelift, is designed to lift sagging skin and at times, its deeper structures. This procedure is ideal for patients who have significant laxity of soft tissues of their face and neck.

With incisions usually placed inconspicuously along or behind the hairline, the surgeon restores skin tissues by tightening and re-suspending the underlying fat and lax muscles. Depending on your aesthetic needs, a surgeon may also choose to consider a skin-only facelift.
The mini facelift, short-scar facelift, or S-lift is a less-invasive procedure that utilizes a smaller incision and works on a smaller area of the face compared to a traditional facelift. It is an ideal procedure for those who are beginning to develop lines and drooping skin on their lower face and possibly laxity of their neck. These individuals may wish to address these issues before they become more obvious.
A surgeon may also recommend a mini-lift as a secondary procedure for women who previously underwent a full facelift but are starting to notice visible signs of aging once again.
The procedure involves an inconspicuous S-shaped incision from the sideburn, around toward the bottom of the hairline. The surgeon then tightens and elevates the underlying facial tissues, tightens the neck, and removes any excess skin.

Depending on your aesthetic concerns, some surgeons may also make an additional short incision under the chin.
A modified facelift is recommended for those who have moderate laxity of the face and neck but still do not have enough sagging to merit a full facelift. It is similar to the mini-lift in terms of incision placement, but it involves a longer incision that extends behind the ear, which allows for re-suspension of more fallen soft tissue as well as sagging neck muscles.

Compared to a full facelift, a modified lift focuses on a more limited area of the face, such as the corners of the mouth or the nasolabial folds — the folds between the nose and the outer ends of the mouth.
There is no one type of facelift that applies to everyone. Upon consultation, your MAXiM-affiliated surgeon will educate you on state-of-the-art techniques that would be ideal for your aesthetic goals.

What is the ideal age to undergo a facelift?

As every person ages differently, there is no specific age that one should use to determine when to have a facelift. Having the surgery is a personal choice, but we recommend that you discuss timing with your MAXiM-affiliated surgeon.

Although a majority of patients are in their 40s to their 60s, a facelift can be performed at any age for healthy individuals. However, there is a current trend to start surgical facial rejuvenation earlier than later while the skin has more elasticity and while the visible signs of aging need less work.

How long does the procedure take?

Operating time varies and may depend on the extent of your procedure and technique to be used. In general, a routine facelift may take 2-4 hours if not performed in conjunction with another procedure.

What kind of anesthesia will be used?

A full facelift is usually performed under general anesthesia administered by an anesthesiologist to minimize discomfort during the procedure. For other facelift techniques, the method of anesthesia may be based on the preference of the patient and surgeon.

Other types of anesthesia include local anesthesia, intravenous sedation (“twilight”), and regional anesthesia (nerve block).

Can I have other facial procedures done at the same time as my facelift?

Yes. It is a growing trend for patients to have more than one procedure at the same time. This not only minimizes recovery time, anesthesia time, and cost, but also addresses aesthetic goals that could not be achieved by a facelift alone.

A facelift only treats the lower two-thirds of the face, including cheeks, jowls, and the neck. A facelift does not improve fine lines around the mouth.

What should I expect after a facelift?

Recovery following facial surgery varies per patient and also depends upon the extent of the procedure and surgical technique used. As with any surgery, swelling and bruising are expected. Bruising usually resolves in 7 to 10 days.

feeling of tightness is normal, especially in the neck area. As the tissues heal during recovery, you may notice that the swelling and tightness peak on the third day but will subside by the fifth day. Though much of the swelling subsides within the first two weeks, it is not uncommon for it to take several months to completely resolve.

Pain and discomfort will be minimal and can be controlled by pain medication prescribed by your MAXiM-affiliated surgeon.

When can I resume normal activities

Roughly two weeks after surgery, patients can start to resume some activities that do not require physical exertion. During the third week, most patients resume work and may begin to go out socially, depending on your privacy concerns. Makeup and hair style can help make bruising and incision sites less obvious. Exercise can be resumed 4 to 6 weeks following surgery.

Can I return home the same day?

Yes. Facelift surgery can be performed in a certified ambulatory surgery center in an outpatient setting or a hospital, depending upon the local regulations. You may return home the same day. However, it is vital that you have someone stay with you for at least 24 hours. In rare cases, overnight hospitalization may be required.

When is the ideal age to have otoplasty?

Otoplasty, particularly ear pinning, can be performed at any age but is frequently performed on children. It is best planned after the ear nears full development at around 5 or 6 years old; therefore, that age is an excellent time to have a child evaluated by a plastic surgeon. Advantages of having the procedure earlier than later include less social trauma and softer ears to reshape.

How is otoplasty performed?

The surgeon makes a lengthwise incision down the crease behind the ear. Sutures are used to correct the shape of the ear and change the position of the ear relative to the head. Sometimes the resculpting of the ear involves the removal or thinning of a piece of cartilage.

For patients who desire a reduction in the size of the ear, an incision may be placed on the front of the ear, just inside the rim, where the incision will not be visible.

How long does the procedure take?

Due to the custom nature of otoplasty, the duration of the surgery will depend on several factors, including the type of correction that needs to be done and the complexity of each patient’s ears. On average, otoplasty surgery may take 1½ to 2½ hours. You will receive a better estimate during your consultation with the surgeon.

Can I go home after surgery?

In general, yes. Otoplasty is usually performed on an outpatient basis for both adults and children. Local regulations may require the procedure to be performed at a hospital or certified ambulatory surgery center.

What kind of anesthesia is used?

For children, otoplasty is best performed under general anesthesia. Adults may undergo the procedure using local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia.

What should I expect after ear surgery?

Bruising, swelling, and soreness of the ears are not uncommon following otoplasty. Any discomfort can be controlled by pain medication prescribed by your MAXiM-affiliated surgeon. A slight loss of hearing may also result as a by-product of the swelling but will last no more than a few days.

In general, postoperative bruising and swelling begin to resolve at the end of the first week. Full recovery from it may take 2 to 3 weeks.

The heavy dressing placed on the head can be removed after 7 to 10 days and replaced by lighter bandages. A complete recovery follows soon thereafter, although it is recommended to avoid any activity in which the ear may be bent for about four weeks.

When can I go back to my normal routine?

Most patients take 3-4 days off of work or school but occasionally a patient returns after one week. If you have privacy concerns, you may choose to take a week or two off work or school. Children who return to school after 3 to 4 days should remain out of physical education and contact sports for four weeks.

Are the results permanent?

Yes. Otoplasty surgery generally produces permanent results.

How is the procedure performed?

Chin augmentation is accomplished by placing an individually designed implant over the bony chin. It is inserted in a “pocket” located in the chin that sits directly on the top of the bone and feels like an extension of the bone itself.

Chin reduction, on the other hand, involves reducing the size of the lower jaw. Incisions are made within the mouth (between the gum and lip) or in a natural crease located beneath the chin.

Another possibility for improvement through chin surgery is submental liposuction, in which excess fatty tissue is removed to redefine the chin or neckline. Your consultation with a surgeon will help you decide on the type of technique that will best achieve your aesthetic goals.

The surgeon will provide information on new medical techniques for chin surgery and offer recommendations to ensure the greatest improvement.

What are chin implants made of?

Chin implants are made of synthetic medical-grade materials that are stable over time and do not reabsorb, making the results permanent. Silastic (silicone rubber) and Gore-Tex are the materials of choice for this procedure because of their natural feel.

Can chin surgery be performed in conjunction with other procedures?

Yes. It is common for a facial plastic surgeon to recommend chin surgery in addition to nose surgery when the surgeon sees that chin augmentation is necessary to achieve facial balance and harmony.

What should I expect after chin augmentation?

As with most procedures, there is some discomfort after the surgery that can be controlled with prescribed medication. Pressure bandages are placed overnight to minimize swelling but typically nothing else needs to be worn afterwards.

During the recovery period, your MAXiM-affiliated surgeon will give you special instructions on how to maintain good oral hygiene. A soft diet would be ideal for about a week to avoid stretching around the incision sites and to minimize discomfort. Swelling and bruising around the chin and neck are normal but generally recede and fade after a week.

When can I resume work and social activities?

For most patients, one week is sufficient. Swelling around the chin will improve over 5-7 days, after which time patients are able to return to work and social activities.

Is it possible to add volume to my lips without changing their size?

Yes. The latest lip implants, particularly VeraFil, are permanent but adjustable implants. If you are seeking a more voluminous look to your lips but do not want to alter the size, your MAXiM-affiliated surgeon can customize the amount of saline during implantation for this effect.

Are there any risks involving lip implants?

As with all synthetic implants there is a risk of allergic reaction. In this case, the implant can be taken out easily through a small incision.

Are there surgical lip augmentation techniques other than the use of synthetic lip implants?

Yes. AlloDerm, a dermal graft, is also widely used for lip augmentation. This collagen sheet is inserted through tiny incisions on the inside part of the lip and also provides natural results. AlloDerm implants, however, are not permanent and material cost may be high.

Some surgeons find AlloDerm to be ideal for upper lip enhancement, as it is known for its supple feel, and they may choose to use another material for the lower lip.
Fat grafting is another surgical method to augment the lips. It involves inserting your own fat into the lips to give them fullness. Results for this procedure are often short lived and must be repeated for maintenance.

Although it is possible for the body to reabsorb the graft, some patients choose fat grafting because they are most comfortable with using the fat from their own body.
Feel free to ask your MAXiM-affiliated surgeon about alternative options and techniques to make an educated decision about your surgery.

How is a lip implant inserted?

After making 4 inconspicuous incisions, 2 on each lip at the very corners of the mouth, the surgeon will insert the implant by pulling it through the lip from one end to the other. After insertion, the implant is cut to the size the patient’s individual lip needs to be augmented.

The end of the implants are trimmed and rounded with small, intricate cuts to ensure proper healing and to avoid friction to the inside of the lip. The incision areas are then sutured.

How long will the procedure take?

Lip augmentation surgery varies depending upon the technique and the surgeon’s skill. It usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour and 15 minutes. Your surgery may take longer if other procedures are being performed in conjunction with your lip augmentation. Your surgeon should be able to give you a better approximation upon consultation.

Can I recover at home?

Yes. Lip augmentation surgery can be performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia with light to deep sedation. Typically, you will be allowed to return home within a few hours of the surgery.

What should I expect after lip augmentation?

Discomfort is usually minimal but swelling, tenderness, bruising, and numbness of the lips are expected after surgery. Using a cold compress and elevating your head during the first 24 hours should help ease the discomfort.

Pain can also be controlled with medication prescribed by your MAXiM-affiliated surgeon. During your recovery, you may experience some problems with drooling. Swelling should subside after a week but it is not uncommon for the lips to feel unnaturally stiff for 2-3 months after surgery.

How is eyelid surgery performed?

Surgery of the upper and lower eyelids involves the surgical removal of fat just beneath the skin and loose skin around the eyes. For upper eyelid surgery, microscopic incisions follow the natural crease line of the upper lid. For lower eyelid surgery, the procedure is performed through a microscopic incision made just below the lower lash line.

There is also an advanced procedure for lower eyelid surgery known as transconjunctival blepharoplasty that does not involve external excisions. It may be used for younger patients who only need fat removal beneath the lower eye area. The underlying fatty deposits may be extracted from the inside of the lower lid.

How long is the procedure?

Under normal conditions, a blepharoplasty can take as little as 45 minutes to one and a half hours to perform.

Can blepharoplasty correct crow’s feet and dark circles under the eyes?

No. However, you may ask your MAXiM-affiliated surgeon about other treatments and procedures that can reduce the appearance of wrinkles, crow’s feet, or dark circles under the eyes. These treatments and procedures may be combined with blepharoplasty to meet your aesthetic goals.

What should I expect after eyelid surgery?

After the procedure, you may experience soreness or tightness in your eyelids. Bruising and swelling is normal for about 2 weeks. Patients are encouraged to stay mobile and as upright as possible to reduce swelling and bruising.

Lightweight cold compresses may be recommended for the eye periodically. Antibiotic eye drops are generally prescribed for several days while pain medication will be provided for any discomfort. Hairline scars may remain slightly pink for 2 months or more but will eventually become less obvious.

When can I go back to work and routine activities?

In the early days following discharge, patients are advised to avoid any level of activity that would put undue strain on the newly operated areas, to keep hands away from the eyes, and to exercise strict personal hygiene.

Your MAXiM-affiliated surgeon will discuss with you, in more detail, when you can resume particular activities (e.g. using cosmetics, contact lenses, sunbathing). Patients will also be advised to take a specific amount of recovery time away from work, dependent on the job.

How is a brow lift or forehead lift performed?

Your MAXiM-affiliated surgeon will help you decide which surgical technique will best achieve your cosmetic goals: the classic or “open” method, or the endoscopic forehead lift.

The classic forehead lift usually involves a coronal incision that follows a headphone-like pattern made behind the hairline, resulting in inconspicuous scarring. On the other hand, the endoscopic forehead lift involves three, four, or five short scalp incisions, each less than an inch in length. With the aid of a small camera in one of the incisions, the forehead skin is then lifted and the muscles and tissues beneath the skin removed or altered to produce a smoother appearance. The procedure may also involve lifting and repositioning the eyebrows.

Can patients with a high or receding hairline have a brow lift?

Yes. Your MAXiM-affiliated surgeon will determine where to place the incision to avoid adding more height to the forehead and to minimize visible scarring.

What age is ideal to get a brow lift?

If indications fit, a forehead Lift can be performed as early as the 30s and well into the 70s.

How long will the forehead lift procedure take?

This outpatient procedure is performed at a certified ambulatory surgery center or hospital depending upon local regulations and typically takes about an hour or two.

What can I expect after a brow lift or forehead lift?

After surgery, you may experience fatigue, numbness, pain, and mild swelling. Within about 3 weeks, though, most of the obvious signs of surgery will fade and you will appear more rested.

When can I resume my regular activities?

Most patients return to their normal routines in 1-2 weeks. Your MAXiM-affiliated surgeon will, however, discuss activities that you should avoid or should remain limited for a certain period of time (e.g., sun exposure, activities that increase blood pressure).

Can other procedures be performed in conjunction with a brow lift?

Yes. It is not uncommon for a brow lift to be performed in conjunction with a facelift to better meet a patient’s goal for a smoother overall look to the face. Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) may also be performed at the same time as a forehead lift, especially if a patient has significant skin overhang in the upper eyelids.

How is a rhinoplasty performed?

This nose re-shaping procedure generally involves the surgical refining or removal of nasal bone and cartilage from just below the surface of the skin on the bridge, tip, and/or nostril area. This refinement is followed by the re-draping of the skin over the newly designed underlying nasal structure.

How long does nose surgery take?

Under regular circumstances and conditions, a rhinoplasty procedure can take around one hour to perform. This duration may vary depending on how complicated the surgery is. Procedures in which the bone and cartilaginous structures need to be reconstructed or built up can take much longer.

I am concerned about scarring on my face. Where will the incisions be made?

In general, surgical scars are hidden from view since nearly all incisions are made from within the nasal passage or nostril area. An exception is when rhinoplasty involves tapering flared nostrils. In this case, incisions are made in the natural crease line to the side of just below the nostril itself, which are still relatively hidden, leaving small and usually insignificant scars.

What should I expect after rhinoplasty?

It is normal for the area operated on to be quite tender for several months following surgery. Any discomfort can be controlled by pain medication prescribed by your MAXiM-affiliated surgeon.

Inevitable facial bruising and swelling occurs following rhinoplasty, and patients typically experience a sensation of nasal stuffiness for several weeks. Most patients are required to wear a nasal splint for a week after surgery to firmly support the nose.

How soon can I resume regular activities?

In general, patients who undergo rhinoplasty are up and about within two days and find themselves back to their regular sedentary activities a week following surgery.

Your MAXiM-affiliated surgeon will discuss guidelines for gradually resuming your other activities, specifically those that you would need to avoid for a certain period of time (e.g., sports, sexual relations, outdoor activities).