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Robert Whitfield, M.D., FACS
- 901 West 38th Street
Suite 410
Austin, TX 78705 - Tel: Click for phone number
- Fax: 512-533-9901
- Send E-mail
- www.breastandbodycenterofaustin.com
Answered Questions
Q:
Will I need extra surgery after having my implants taken out?
I was a very small A cup and had breast implants (400 cc: small D in VS bras) put in at the age of 21. It has been seven years now and I want to either have them removed or have them replaced for a smaller size (to a small B cup). I would really like to have them taken out for good but I am not sure about the results. Do you foresee me needing corrective surgery or will I be okay after healing time?
A:
Salon devices can be deflated in the office. This allows the skin and remaining tissue to shrink down prior to removal. You then would have multiple options - smaller implants with or without a lift. You could also have breast aebyaion with fat graft. There are several plastic surgeons involved in the study of external tissue expansion with a device, BRAVA, followed by using liposuction to remove fat that can be processed and then injected into the area that needs to be enlarged.
R. Whitfield, MD
Q:
Would it be a risk and unsafe to have a tummy tuck 11 years after spinal fusion?
I would like to have a tummy tuck. I had a spinal fusion 11 years ago which left me with a 12 inch scar up the left side of my chest. At that time, the surgeon also removed a rib for a graft. I saw a plastic surgeon recently to discuss my having a tummy tuck/mommy makeover. He expressed concern over the scar and the risks performing the surgery because of the old scar and blood flow. However, another surgeon said it would not be an issue. Who is right???
A:
Both are correct. You should always be concerned when patients have scars because they alter circulation. There are ways to look at the circulation of the skin and fat of the abdomen and plan surgery. I use a cat scan to look at the blood vessels that provide the blood supply to this area to plan operations for breast cancer patients every week. The study cost will range and you have to find that out from the radiology provider and they have to understand what it being requested. One way to avoid this is to find a surgeon who performs DIEP flaps.
R.W. Whitfield, MD
Q:
Four days after having facial fat injections, I now have swelling and bruises all over my face - what can I do?
I had fat injections in the face four days ago. I now have swelling and bruises all over my face making me look abnormal. What should I do?
A:
First of all the face has tremendous blood supply and lymphatic drainage so it will heal. Frozen vegetables are great ice packs so you can relax and use those while you are at home. There is also make up that can be used to camouflage these areas. Give your Plastic Surgeon a call. They will be able to address your concerns.
R. Whitfield, MD
Q:
Is it possible to have a breast lift without moving the nipples?
I have very embarrassing saggy breasts from weight loss and was wondering if it is possible to have a breast lift without moving my nipples and without implants? I'm depressed about the way I look but would like the procedure to be as non-invasive as possible. Thank you.
A:
There are different ways to elevate the breasts. Many times volumn needs to be added and with different incisions the excess skin can be removed without moving the nipple complex on a peduncle. Have a few consultations regarding your expectations to gather more information about the options.
R. Whitfield, MD
Q:
Am I too old for a neck lift alone?
I am 48 years old and in excellent health and physical condition. What bothers me most about my appearance are the vertical bands in my neck which I understand are the platsyma muscles separating with age. I am nervous about getting a face lift and wondered if a neck lift alone might give me good results.
A:
The simple answer is yes an isolated neck lift can be performed in some cases. The issue is trying to avoid a facial appearance where balance had been lost.
R. Whitfield, MD