Dr. Niki Christopoulos' Plastic Surgery Blog

Liposuction Myths Debunked

in News by christopoulosmd September 27, 2024January 20, 2025 0 comments

Liposuction has become a popular option for those looking to refine their body contours, but there’s still a lot of misinformation surrounding the procedure. At Dr. Niki Christopoulos, MD FACS – Chicago Plastic Surgeon, we believe it’s important to address these myths to help you make informed decisions about your body.

Myth 1: Liposuction Is A Weight Loss Solution

Many people think liposuction is a quick fix for significant weight loss. In reality, liposuction is designed to remove stubborn fat deposits that don’t respond to diet and exercise. It’s best suited for individuals who are near their ideal weight but want to target specific areas of concern. We focus on enhancing your natural shape rather than providing a solution for obesity.

Myth 2: The Fat Will Come Back After Liposuction

There’s a common belief that fat removed during liposuction will simply return elsewhere in the body. Once fat cells are removed, they do not grow back. However, remaining fat cells can enlarge if you gain weight. Maintaining a stable weight through a healthy lifestyle helps preserve the results. We encourage our patients to adopt good habits to enjoy long-lasting benefits.

Myth 3: Liposuction Is Only For Women

While women often seek liposuction, men can also benefit from the procedure. Areas like the abdomen, flanks, and chest are common targets for male patients. We have helped many men achieve a more defined physique. Liposuction is not gender-specific, and we tailor our approach to meet the unique needs of each individual.

Myth 4: Liposuction Is Extremely Painful

Advancements in surgical techniques have made liposuction more comfortable than ever before. Anesthesia is used during the procedure to minimize discomfort. Post-operative pain is usually manageable with prescribed medication. We provide detailed aftercare instructions to help you recover smoothly and address any discomfort effectively.

Myth 5: Recovery Takes A Very Long Time

Recovery time varies depending on the extent of the procedure and individual healing rates. Many patients return to their normal activities within a week or two. We will guide you through the recovery process, offering support and advice to help you get back on your feet as quickly as possible.

Myth 6: Liposuction Leaves Noticeable Scars

Incisions made during liposuction are typically very small and placed in discreet locations. Scarring is minimal and often fades over time. We take great care to minimize any visible marks, allowing you to enjoy your results without concern about noticeable scars.

Myth 7: Liposuction Is Dangerous

All surgical procedures carry some level of risk, but liposuction is generally safe when performed by a qualified surgeon. We prioritize patient safety by conducting thorough consultations and using proven techniques. Our team is committed to providing care that meets the highest standards.

Myth 8: Non-Surgical Alternatives Are Just As Effective

Non-surgical fat reduction methods can offer some improvement, but they often require multiple sessions and may not achieve the same results as liposuction. We can discuss all available options to determine what best suits your goals. Liposuction provides a more immediate and significant change in body contour.

Myth 9: Liposuction Tightens Loose Skin

While liposuction removes fat, it does not tighten loose skin. If skin elasticity is a concern, we might recommend additional procedures to address it. We will assess your skin quality during the consultation to create a comprehensive plan that meets your needs.

Myth 10: Anyone Can Get Liposuction

Ideal candidates for liposuction are healthy individuals with specific areas of unwanted fat. Certain medical conditions may affect eligibility. We conduct a thorough evaluation to determine if liposuction is appropriate for you. Your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities.

If you’re considering liposuction and want to learn more, we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward achieving your aesthetic goals. Discover how our Chicago, IL liposuction procedure can enhance your confidence and well-being.

Candidate Criteria For Eyelid Surgery

in News / Uncategorized by christopoulosmd September 27, 2024January 20, 2025 0 comments

Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a procedure many people consider to improve the appearance of their eyelids. If you’re considering a Chicago, IL eyelid surgery, and would like to learn more about how it could benefit you, we’re here to help. As we explore who makes a good candidate for this surgery, it’s important to understand the factors that contribute to successful outcomes.

Physical Health Considerations

Good overall health is essential when considering any surgical procedure. We recommend that candidates be free from serious medical conditions that could impair healing. Chronic illnesses such as uncontrolled diabetes or hypertension may increase risks during and after surgery. It’s important for us to assess your health status to minimize potential complications.

Eyelid Conditions That Can Be Corrected

Common issues addressed by eyelid surgery include drooping upper lids, excess skin that impairs vision, and bags under the eyes. These conditions can make you look older or more tired than you feel. If you’re experiencing any of these concerns, you might benefit from the procedure. We can help determine if surgery is the right option for you.

Realistic Expectations

Having a clear understanding of what eyelid surgery can achieve is crucial. While the procedure can enhance appearance and alleviate some functional issues, it’s important to have realistic goals. We encourage open discussions about expected results to ensure satisfaction. Eyelid surgery can provide a refreshed look, but it won’t drastically alter your facial structure.

Age Considerations

Most candidates are 35 years or older, as signs of aging around the eyes typically become noticeable at this stage. However, age isn’t the only factor. If droopy or baggy eyelids run in your family, you may consider surgery at a younger age. We evaluate each candidate on an individual basis to determine the best course of action.

Smoking And Lifestyle Factors

Smoking can hinder the healing process and increase the risk of complications. We advise candidates to quit smoking several weeks before and after surgery. Additionally, a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition and exercise, supports better recovery and overall results. We can provide guidance on lifestyle adjustments to optimize your surgical experience.

Medical History

A thorough medical evaluation helps us determine candidacy. Conditions such as thyroid disorders, dry eye, glaucoma, or other eye-related issues may affect the decision. Sharing your complete medical history, including any previous surgeries or treatments, allows us to make informed recommendations. We may also coordinate with your other healthcare providers if necessary.

At Dr. Niki Christopoulos, MD FACS – Chicago Plastic Surgeon, we are dedicated to helping you achieve your aesthetic and functional goals. We understand that considering eyelid surgery is a significant decision, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Our team is committed to providing personalized care for to your specific needs. During your consultation, we’ll thoroughly assess your candidacy for the procedure, discuss your expectations, and answer any questions you may have. Open communication is key to helping you feel comfortable and informed about your choices.

Compensation For Reconstructive Surgery

in News by christopoulosmd May 23, 2024January 20, 2025 0 comments

Reconstructive surgery plays a vital role in restoring physical function and appearance for individuals who have suffered injuries in accidents. If you’ve been involved in an accident resulting in injuries that require reconstructive surgery, it’s crucial to understand your rights and options for seeking compensation. In this post, we’ll explore the process of fighting for compensation to cover reconstructive surgery with a plastic surgeon and the importance of seeking legal assistance.

The Importance Of Reconstructive Surgery

Reconstructive surgery is a specialized branch of plastic surgery focused on repairing and rebuilding tissues damaged by trauma, disease, or congenital defects. Following an accident, reconstructive surgery can help individuals regain mobility, alleviate pain, and restore confidence in their appearance.

Understanding Compensation Options

A lawyer, like a personal injury lawyer, knows that if your injuries require reconstructive surgery, you may be entitled to compensation to cover the cost of the procedure, as well as related medical expenses, rehabilitation, and other damages. Pursuing compensation can help alleviate the financial burden of medical treatment and ensure that you receive the care you need to recover fully.

Seeking Legal Representation

Navigating the complexities of a personal injury claim involving reconstructive surgery requires the expertise of experienced legal professionals. Your lawyer will understand the challenges faced by individuals seeking compensation after an accident and will be dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive legal representation. Attorneys can attest to the importance of having skilled advocates fighting for your rights and interests.

Proving Liability

In personal injury cases involving reconstructive surgery, establishing liability is crucial to securing compensation. This may involve demonstrating that the accident was caused by the negligence or wrongful actions of another party, such as a negligent driver, property owner, or manufacturer of a defective product. By proving liability, you can hold the responsible party accountable for their actions and seek fair compensation for your injuries.

Documenting Damages

Documenting the extent of your injuries and the necessity of reconstructive surgery is essential for building a strong case for compensation. This may include medical records, diagnostic imaging, surgical reports, and testimony from medical experts. By providing comprehensive evidence of your damages, you can demonstrate the need for compensation to cover the cost of reconstructive surgery and associated expenses.

Negotiating With Insurance Companies

Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, especially when it comes to complex personal injury claims involving reconstructive surgery. You want a lawyer who will have extensive experience negotiating with insurance companies on behalf of clients seeking compensation for medical expenses and other damages. Attorneys can advocate for your rights and interests, working to secure a fair settlement that fully compensates you for your losses.

Get the Lawyer Right For The Job

If you’ve been injured in an accident and require reconstructive surgery, it’s essential to understand your rights and options for seeking compensation. Our friends at Cohen & Cohen are here to help guide you through the process and fight for the compensation you deserve. By seeking legal assistance, you can focus on your recovery while your experienced attorneys work to secure the financial resources you need to cover the cost of reconstructive surgery and move forward with your life. Seek help today.

The Many Benefits of a Facelift

in Facelift by christopoulosmd May 12, 2016February 8, 2024 0 comments

Face Lift Surgery The face is an incredible part of the human body as it helps to provide a unique identity. Due to exposure to the sun or use of cosmetic products with toxic chemicals, it will result in your skin looking haggard, worn out or tired. When this happens, your self-confidence will diminish, and you will look for different ways to hide this.

Thanks to facelift surgery, you can be able to regain the self-confidence, your natural facial look, and youthful appearance. This will help you to shine and allow you to age gracefully for years to come.

Below are the benefits of facelift surgery.

Helps to tighten facial musclesThe superficial musculoaponeurotic system is the underlying facial structure which weakens and sags as you age. This is because the elasticity of the skin decreases as collagen, which provides support to the skin, weakens. Collagen is one of the most abundant protein in the body that not only supports the skin but also strengthens it, therefore, eliminating sagging.

When a facelift is performed, it will help to tighten and rearrange the underlying SMAS into a better configuration allowing your skin to appear youthful. When this is done, it puts less tension and helps your skin to last longer.

Helps to repair loose skinAs you age, the body is unable to produce the high levels of collagen. Due to this, the skin will start to sag around different areas. There are occasions when you decide to lose weight but after some time, you get to notice the skin around the face is sagging a little. When you have a facelift procedure done, it will help to repair loose skin. The procedure will trim and tighten the skin to restore it to a more youthful and natural look. The surgeon will not over tighten it or it will lead to what professionals call “pulled appearance.”

Helps to improve facial contoursWhen a mid facelift is performed by a surgeon, it will help to restore a smooth look on your cheeks and lower eyelids. Apart from that, the procedure will also help to create a more attractive jaw line contour by eliminating jowls and smoothing the neck area too. A liposuction procedure can also be carried out around the neck or jowls.

Helps to rejuvenate your skinWhen you opt for nonsurgical procedures like injectables, your skin will appear good for a few minutes, hours or days and then it will be damaged more than before. This is because the procedure treats your face as a patchwork. To avoid this and ensure that you can achieve a youthful and more natural look, you need to seek a facelift expert. The procedure will help to address problems brought about by aging as well as exposure to the elements like the rays of the sun.While a facelift procedure has several benefits, below are five things you should know before considering a facelift.

Why are you having the procedure?This is the first question you need to ask yourself. You need to come up with reasons why you want to have the procedure. You don’t have to do the procedure just because a friend had it done or for your partner.

What do you want to achieve?You need to have in mind the results you would like in the end. Remember, the procedure costs money, and if you don’t have the right results in mind, you will end up with a permanent fixture and a dent in your savings.

ResearchIt is important to find out all possible outcomes of the procedure so as not to be disappointed in the end. You can use different internet resources; you can speak with trusted friends who have done it or you can talk with your doctor.

Select the right surgeonThis is very important as selecting a the wrong physician will result in poor results that will not easily be repaired. When choosing the right surgeon for the procedure, ask your doctor first. He/she should help to direct you to a licensed, insured, certified and experienced surgeon.

Are you a suitable candidate?Before the procedure, you need to consult with a board certified physician to find out if you are an ideal candidate for the procedure. You need to make sure you are generally of good health and have a good medical history.

Request Consultation

Considering a Mommy Makeover?

in Mommy Makeover Surgery / Mommy Makeovers / News by christopoulosmd March 15, 2016January 20, 2025 0 comments

The Mommy Makeover is among the most effective procedures plastic surgeons have ever promoted. It resonates quickly with a number of today’s mothers– ladies who are proud to be moms but wish to regain their former bodies. Mothers who have put their children first and possibly forgotten the pleasure of taking care of themselves. Ladies who might wish to resume or start a career or simply look their finest once again.

If the factors females look for Mommy Makeover cosmetic surgery vary, the mix of treatments they pick are much more varied. In fact, a Mommy Makeover can be just about any mix a lady and her cosmetic surgeon can develop.

Tummy tuck surgical treatment, or abdominoplasty, is usually at the heart of a Mommy Makeover. Pregnancy takes a toll on the female body, extending both the skin and stomach muscles. Once the muscles are changed, no quantity of sit-ups can restore their old tone. Through a cut low on the stomach, a plastic surgeon can stitch the muscles back together and eliminate any redundant skin.

Practically every mom puts on weight around the hips, thighs and upper body during pregnancy. After giving birth, those fat pockets can be frustratingly persistent to minimize. Numerous women will select liposuction to help rid their post-childbirth bodies of love handles or saddlebags that didn’t exist before the kids were born. Liposuction is frequently carried out along with a tummy tuck.

Breast surgery is also a typical component of a Mommy Makeover. Childbearing, together with the passage of time, does have an effect on the perky, youthful looking breasts lots of moms keep in mind having at one time. Lots of mamas choose to go through bust lift surgery, some with implants to change lost volume. Occasionally breast reduction and lift is the surgical treatment of option.

These 3 procedures, abdominoplasty, liposuction and breast surgery, are the procedures of a Mommy Makeover. When a patient is in excellent health and each operation is routine and not terribly substantial, many cosmetic surgeons will think about performing them at the same time. The secret is to restrict the amount of general anesthesia time as much as possible.

Advantages to combination surgery are apparent, including savings on the anesthesiologist and surgical suite time and recuperating all at once.

That said, some ladies choose other treatments instead of, or in addition to, these three common choices. For some moms, a facelift helps them feel like a new woman. Others are interested in a thigh lift to raise and tighten up sagging upper legs. Occasionally a patient will have an interest in an arm lift, or Brachioplasty. Including another region of the body to the most common locations of focus typically indicates adding a 2nd treatment.

One fascinating aspect of Mommy Makeover surgical treatment is the virtually universal delight women report with their results. Recent statistics show patients evaluate the outcomes of their Mommy Makeover at a 96 percent approval rate! It’s not uncommon to hear it stated that the decision is, “The best thing I have ever done for myself!”.

Possibly that’s it in a nutshell, the reason behind the pleasure women seem to feel after their Mommy Makeover surgical treatment. They’ve experienced the joy of bringing children into the world; now they have the opportunity to care for themselves and gain back self-confidence and pride in their appearances. What could feel better than that?

Restore Your Youthful Appearance with a Facelift

in Facelift / News by christopoulosmd January 26, 2016January 20, 2025 0 comments

Facelifts, also known as rhytidectomies, provide those wishing to enhance their look significantly. There are several facelift treatments; however, basic facelifts do not result in the ‘wind-tunnel’ impact or ‘surprised look’ that is often triggered by more extreme facelifts. Healing from an easy facelift is easier and has fewer complications than the more extreme variety of facelifts. Further, there is less possibility of bruising and stretching, and they are substantially more economical.

When considering a facelift, you should consult with a specialist certified in the procedure. Dr. Niki Christopoulos is double board certified in this procedure.

During your consultation, you will be asked about your history and provided with a physical exam. Be forewarned, lots of doctors will not do a facelift on individuals who smoke or have smoked, as this might have major complications.

Sometimes the best outcomes of the facelift procedure are achieved by integrating numerous procedures, such as liposuction, brow lift, fat transfer, blepharoplasty, laser, or chin and cheek implants– all depending upon the patient’s requirements.

Throughout a simple facelift procedure, Dr. Christopoulos will make incisions that follow the contours of your ear as to hide an lines in your hair. This produces a seamless look. The best enhancement with a facelift is seen in the jowl area and under the neck.

During facelift surgery, after the ear contour incision is performed, the skin is undermined– pulled upwards and back towards the scalp line. The excess skin is removed and secured. This is a typical, basic facelift.

A newer method is the ‘deep airplane facelift’, which includes going under the muscle of the face and pulling it in addition to the skin to make the facelift last longer. Some physicians choose a laser or chemical peel before the surgical treatment is performed. Recuperation time is more substantial than for a timeless facelift.

Facelifts can provide excellent and dramatic results. It can reduce the appearance of age and boost self-esteem in many people. Healing times vary and it is important that you enter into your surgery knowing that the complete results can take weeks to appear. But rest assured, when healing is all said and done, you will present a younger and smoother looking face to the world– with the outcomes apparent years after your facelift surgical procedure.

Women tend to have better results than men do in a facelift; however, men are in some cases good candidates for the treatment. Sometimes after surgery, men may have to shave in new places, as beard growing skin may be slightly repositioned.

The effects of a facelift will not last forever– your skin will continue to age and be affected by gravity. You may want to have another facelift surgery five or ten years later for maintenance or improvement.

Information is consistent on facelifts throughout the board. As with all surgical treatments, there are risks involved that you must go over with your physician prior to surgery. Your own health record and practices can and will affect your candidacy for surgical treatment. Be sure to be honest with your physician to prevent as many side effects and risks as possible.

If you’d like to receive a consultation and discuss your options, contact our office to arrange a time to speak with Dr. Niki Christopoulos. During your consultation, you’ll have the chance to ask all of your questions and receive treatment from a double board certified plastic surgeon.

14 Questions You Should Ask Before Considering Plastic Surgery

in News / Plastic Surgery Tips by christopoulosmd January 4, 2016January 20, 2025 0 comments

plastic_surgery_operating_table 14 Questions You Should Ask Before Considering Plastic Surgery

You’ll achieve the best result from cosmetic surgery if you and your specialist communicate openly and work together to attain realistic objectives.

An understanding of your objectives, expectations and motivation is vital to a successful collaboration between you and your surgeon, helping both of you to figure out whether cosmetic surgery is the right option for you.

Here are 14 Questions You Should Ask any Plastic Surgeon Prior to Surgery:

Are you certified by the American Board of Cosmetic surgery?
Are you a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons?
Were you trained in the field of plastic surgery?
How many years of plastic surgery training have you had?
Do you have healthcare facility privileges to perform this treatment? If so, at which healthcare facilities?
Is the office-based surgical center accredited by a nationally- or state-recognized recognizing company?
What number of treatments of this type have you carried out?
Am I a great prospect for this procedure?
Where and how will you perform my treatment?
How long of a recovery duration can I expect, and what type of aid will I require during my healing?
Exactly what are the risks and issues related to my procedure?
How are issues managed?
What are my alternatives if I am dissatisfied with the outcome of my surgery?
Do you have before-and-after photos I can take a look at for each treatment and exactly what results are reasonable for me?

If you’d like to receive a consultation please contact our office to arrange a time to speak with Dr. Niki Christopoulos. During your consultation, you’ll have the chance to ask all of your questions and receive treatment from a double board certified plastic surgeon.

5 Things to Know About a Mommy Makeover

in Mommy Makeovers / News by christopoulosmd December 8, 2015January 20, 2025 0 comments

The latest trend in plastic surgery is not for the meek-hearted or particularly vain. It targets one of the most important and arguably one of the strongest and selfless demographics in our society. This is a notion as true as the fact that none of us will be here if it weren’t for our mothers. And they are the very subjects of the most current plastic surgery fad. Mommy makeovers are not new in the industry. Many women from previous decades have opted for plastic surgery procedures to help them get their post-pregnancy bodies back. In fact, that is exactly what mommy makeovers are. They’re a series of surgical procedures planned and executed with the end goal being mom’s complete satisfaction with her post-baby bod. Mommy makeovers entail quite a bit of detail, so here is a quick guideline on what to ask your doctor if you’ve ever thought of having a makeover yourself.

1. Procedures
What type of surgeries do moms typically get for a makeover? The answer to this can really vary from woman to woman depending on what is needed. Most women who typically are unable to bounce back from their post-pregnancy bodies have problems with the tummy area and breasts. Breast augmentation, tummy tucks, and liposuctions are just three procedures that are usually performed for a mommy makeover. Some even go for a genitoplasty. It’s all up to you.

2. Pain and recovery
Much like after any surgical procedures, healing takes time. Depending on how your procedures are carried out, some recovery time might take longer than others. Procedures may be grouped together, but that will be to the discretion of your health care providers. Rest assured, your pain will be well managed and your recovery prioritized.

3. Complications
Regardless of how advanced plastic surgery technologies are these days, complications may still happen due to unforeseen circumstances. Make sure you discuss potential risks and complications with your surgery before you decide if you are comfortable with them or not.

4. Costs
Many plastic surgery offices offer mommy makeover packages to combine the costs of separate procedures. Some even offer financing. Although typically categorized as an elective surgery, some mommy makeover costs may even be covered by your health insurance as long as the procedures are medically necessary. Different carriers have different criteria. Most women pay out of pocket with cash or credit cards. Talk to your doctor to see what financing options they might be able to provide you.

5. Maintenance
Getting mommy makeovers to repair any unwanted post-pregnancy effects doesn’t guarantee having it for life. The body will still need proper diet and exercise to maintain its peak conditions after surgery. Your health care provider should be able to talk you through the things you would need to do after your surgery and recovery to keep the shape you want to have.

More than anyone, moms deserve to have it all—including the body they dream of or the one they might have had before. If you are looking to do a mommy makeover, consult Dr. Niki Christopoulos for all your questions and needs. Dr. Christopoulos is a plastic surgeon specializing in mommy makeovers of all types. Don’t waste any more time and money on programs that don’t work. Get a mommy makeover, and get the look and feel you deserve.

5 Myths About Rhinoplasty

in News / Nose Job by christopoulosmd October 26, 2015January 20, 2025 0 comments

face-trans With rhinoplasy being the 2nd most popular plastic surgical treatment procedure performed (according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons), nose surgery is moving from the world of the rich and famous into the houses of regular people like you and me. Now that this procedure is more accessible than ever, it’s only natural that you will be exposed to a lot of info about it– some real, some skeptical, some downright false. In this article, we’ll attempt to attend to some of the most popular false impressions surrounding rhinoplasty.

1. Every cosmetic surgeon can do a nose job surgical treatment– Technically, yes. Many plastic cosmetic surgeons will have nose surgery on their list of performed procedures. However, that doesn’t suggest that every cosmetic surgeon can accomplish great nose job outcomes. Nose job is a challenging procedure, both from a medical and an artistic perspective. A cosmetic surgeon needs to have a thorough understanding of the internal anatomy of the nose and the workings of the breathing system, so that the improved nose is not only visually pleasing, but likewise completely practical. Since the nose is such a significant consider our face’s total look, the cosmetic surgeon likewise requires to have a strong sense of artistry, to develop a nose that fits wonderfully with the rest of the patient’s face.

2. Rhinoplasty is motivated by vanity– Despite the widely-held belief that people get nose surgical treatment entirely for cosmetic reasons, it’s not unusual for this procedure to remedy breathing problems (e.g. a septum deviation) in addition to enhancing the look of the nose. At the exact same time, it has actually been established that in patients who are dissatisfied with the appearance of their nose, having nose surgery may result in a physical and emotional improvement that will enhance their self-confidence and ultimately their quality of life. From this perspective, the effect of nose job is comparable more to a therapeutic treatment than a selfish satisfaction for the patient’s vanity.

3. After the surgical treatment, you will have a little nose cast for 7 to 10 days, during which you will most likely feel congested, as if having a cold. The area around your nose and eyes may be inflamed and bruised (particularly if your nasal bones have been improved); nevertheless, the overall discomfort you will experience after the surgical treatment is very little.

4. Everyone will notice you had a nose job– If your nose needs a significant change– like removing a large bump– individuals around you may indeed notice the distinction in your nose. Keep in mind that an excellent cosmetic surgeon will prevent supplying you with an “operated-looking nose”, and instead will make every effort to attain a balance in between your improved nose and the rest of your facial functions, so they naturally complement each other.

5. Rhinoplasty will get you the nose of your dreams– While having nose surgery can considerably enhance the appearance of your nose, there are certain restrictions to exactly what a plastic specialist can do, based on your offered bone and skin structure. Statistics show that between 10 % and 15 % of nose surgery surgeries need a secondary treatment, to either improve or remedy the results of the. This is sometimes due to the nose recovery and establishing in methods that the cosmetic surgeon can not predict or manage.

So what is the essential to successfully achieving the nose of your dreams? Returning to point one– it’s thoroughly looking into, choosing and interacting with your surgeon! For how long has he or she been performing nose surgical treatments? What is their medical accreditation? Exactly what does their security record resemble? Take a best of luck at photos of his or her nose surgery patients– does their improved nose step up to your concept of appeal? Can you envision your own nose looking like that? If you do, the next step consists in making sure that both you and your surgeon have a very clear understanding of exactly what you anticipate your nose to look like and what is achievable from a medical point of view. Equipped with excellent understanding and a positive attitude, you’re on your best way to attaining a more attractive and positive YOU!

Breast Augmentation– Things To Know

in Breast Augmentation / News by christopoulosmd October 5, 2015January 20, 2025 0 comments

breast surgery Breast Augmentation is becoming more and more common with this type of cosmetic surgery becoming one of the fastest growing types of cosmetic surgery. There are two reasons why women would want to undergo this procedure. In 80 % of cases, it is for cosmetic reasons, 20 % are for breast reconstruction after surgery.

There are three questions you need to ask yourself if you’re considering undergoing a breast augmentation procedure.

Why do you want implants?
What do you expect to get from Breast Implant Surgery?
Are you prepared for long term follow up and possibly future surgery and the expense that this will entail should it be required?

You must remember that Breast Augmentation Surgery is a major invasive surgical procedure which is carried out under general anesthetic along with all the normal risks which are undertaken when invasive surgery is conducted.

There are two types of implants, Natural tissue and Synthetic Implants which are both quite different.

Natural Tissue Implants are normally used for Breast Reconstruction surgery. They are very rarely done for cosmetic reasons. The patients own tissue is used to reconstruct the breast. The tissue comes from either the back or the abdomen. This tissue is then attached to the chest and moulded into a breast shape. The surgeon must carefully remove and re-direct muscles and blood supply in order to keep the new breast healthy. The procedure may also involve nipple re-construction. Ideally, the original nipple will be removed and re-attached to the new breast if it is healthy. If that is not possible, then there are synthetic replacements or nipples could be tattooed.

Synthetic Breast Implants are made of two types which are currently available. Those are either a silicone gel or a saline solution. There have been other types in the past, but they are not used anymore due to health risks. Both the silicone and saline implants are both encased in a silicone shell.

There are certain women who are not normally accepted for cosmetic breast implants. Those who are under 18, pregnant, those who are currently breastfeeding, or if you have only a partially treated cancer or an active infection.

There are some risks to Breast Augmentation Surgery which should be considered very carefully as there is no medical benefit to having Breast Augmentation surgery. The only benefits seem to be that women who have Breast Implants have an increase in confidence and self esteem.

One of those risks is Capsular Contracture. This is where scar tissue naturally forms around the implant this causes the implant to harden.

Another risk is infection. This is a normal risk after any major invasive surgery. This is normally caused by a collection of blood/fluid around the implant. The body can safely absorb a certain amount, but if there is too much, it can cause problems. The usual course of action is to prescribe a course of anti-biotics.

There is also the risk of a rupture although that risk is relatively negligible as modern manufacturing techniques and materials improve. Also, the solution inside the implant is non-toxic. The silicone gel will stay in its original shape, and the saline solution can be absorbed safely into the body.

Breast Augmentation is a more and more common procedure despite past negative publicity over the safety of breast implants. Those implants which were thought to be unsafe are not used anymore. There are studies being conducted to ensure that those women who have these old implants are safe.

If you’d like to receive a consultation for your Chicago breast surgery, contact our office to arrange a time to speak with Dr. Niki Christopoulos. During your consultation, you’ll have the chance to ask all of your questions and receive treatment from a double board certified plastic surgeon.