What Can Be Done About Uneven Breasts?

Posted on March 17, 2020 - Breast Implants

Uneven Breast

Very few women have perfectly symmetrical breasts. In fact, it’s rare for breasts to be entirely identical. Although for most women, the differences are unnoticeable. Some women do have asymmetry that is more noticeable and even severe.

Having asymmetrical breasts can make it difficult to find bras that fit or to wear clothing comfortably. Many women even feel discomfort with the way their breasts look side-by-side. If having asymmetrical breasts is worrying you, rest assured there are many things you can do to give your breasts a more even appearance.

Causes of Breast Asymmetry

Breast tissue is made up of milk ducts, lobes, fatty tissue, and other matter. Because breast tissue is continuously changing due to hormones, weight gain/loss, and even age, it’s extremely common for breasts and nipples to be uneven in appearance. Breasts may also appear more asymmetrical at some times than others.

A variety of factors can cause breast asymmetry. Some include weight gain or loss, uneven development during adolescence, pregnancy, breastfeeding, uneven shrinkage while aging, medical conditions, breast infections, breast cancer, or poor results from a prior breast augmentation procedure.

As many women are electing for cosmetic procedures to fix noticeable asymmetry, breast augmentations have now become one of the most requested cosmetic procedures. Below are a few options for those interested in correcting the asymmetry of their breasts.

Breast Reduction

Smaller breasts may fit your frame better or give the perkier appearance you want. If your breasts are slightly uneven but you enjoy your current cup size, then a breast reduction in the larger of your two breasts may be the option for you. This procedure is optimal if you have more than a cup size difference in your breasts and wish to keep the size of your smaller breast.

Keep in mind that the more reduction in a breast, the more likely that breast will need to have a lift done to make the tissue firm and perkier. Ask your doctor to explain the pros and cons of breast reduction in your initial consultation.

Breast Lift

A common problem with women as they age, have children, or breastfeed is sagging of the breast tissue. In some cases, breasts begin to sag away from one another, so even if they are similar in size, the breasts will appear asymmetrical.

In a breast lift, the sagging tissue is removed, and the breast is lifted to a higher point on the chest, placing the nipples in a more natural place. Your breast lift will not make your breasts appear larger unless you are getting breast implants, but it will give you a more symmetrical placement and a perkier appearance.

Breast Augmentation

Breast asymmetry can be corrected easily through breast augmentation. Depending on the severity of your asymmetry and desired results, the surgeon may recommend placing breast implants in one or both of your breasts.

If your breasts differ in more than a cup size or you want larger breasts than you currently have, then an augmentation might be your best option. Your doctor will show you different breast implant sizes to choose from. If augmenting both breasts, the implant sizes will differ to make the final results more symmetrical.

Breast Augmentation Results

While breast augmentation will instantly increase breast size, they will not look their best immediately after surgery. It takes time for breast tissue and chest muscles to adjust to having implants present.

There are a few parts of the healing process that is normal and should not cause worry. At first, the breasts will seem too high on the chest. The swelling will also cause the breasts to appear distorted or feel firmer than usual for some time. The majority of swelling resolves in two to three weeks, and after about three months, the implants will soften and settle into the more natural position.

At your initial consultation, your surgeon will discuss all of this with you in great detail and help you arrive at the ideal method to achieve your unique goals. Together, you will also review the different breast implant options available, as both saline and silicone implants can deliver exceptional results when correcting breast asymmetry.

Contact us today or call 615-538-0399 to speak with a member of our helpful staff. Our team will answer all of your questions and help you make the most informed decision on breast augmentation possible.

Body Contouring After Significant Weight Loss

Posted on March 17, 2020 - Body contouring

Body Contouring

Weight loss, however big or small, is a major accomplishment. However, those who achieve substantial weight loss may be disappointed by excessive skin folds or loose skin that cover up their well-earned results.

To combat this, many now elect for a body contouring procedure following significant weight loss. After this procedure, patients finally achieve what they hoped to with their dramatic weight loss, a better-proportioned appearance with smoother contours.

What is Body Contouring?

Body contouring is a procedure that eliminates or reduces the remaining excess skin and fat after individuals have lost a significant amount of weight. This procedure also improves the tone of the underlying tissue.

This procedure is not just for vanity. It is often necessary for a patient’s quality of life, as excess skin can make getting dressed or bathing a chore. It may also limit mobility and cause hygiene and medical problems. Chronic skin-on-skin contact can also result in rashes and other sores that can lead to infection. Many times, the only way to remove excess skin is through body-contouring.

Body contouring is not a substitute for exercise and a healthy diet. Individuals receiving body contouring should be willing to adopt a healthy lifestyle to maintain long-term results.

Who is a Good Candidate for Body Contouring?

The best candidate for body contouring is a nonsmoking, healthy individual without a medical condition that could impair healing or increase the risk of surgery. The right candidate has also reached his or her goal weight and is committed to keeping it off with a healthy lifestyle and proper nutrition and fitness. Patients will benefit the most if they have excess skin in certain areas but minimal excess fat.

The ideal candidate also has realistic expectations for his or her results. While surgery can improve the overall appearance, every patient heals differently with varying results. During your initial consultation, it is important to talk to your doctor about the results you can expect.

Body Contouring Areas

Below are the areas most often treated through body contouring.

  • An arm lift removes excess skin and gives a tighter, more defined contour.
  • Buttock Augmentation transfers fat, uses buttock implants, fat grafting, or a combination of these methods to change the size of the buttocks.
  • Labiaplasty reduces the length of the labia minora.
  • Liposuction removes excess fat deposits between the skin and muscle.
  • A mini tummy tuck flattens the look of the belly and primarily focuses on excess skin and abdominal wall laxity below the belly button.
  • A “Mommy Makeover” is a set of procedures custom-designed for each patient to restore and invigorate a woman’s body after the physical effects of childbirth or weight loss.
  • A tummy tuck removes excess fat and skin from the waist, and in most cases restores weakened or separated muscles creating an abdominal profile that is more smooth and firm.

A combination of surgeries may take place at the same time. For example, an “upper body lift” may include surgery to the arms, back, and breasts. A “lower body lift” will focus on the hips, thighs, abdomen, and buttocks.

Procedure & Recovery

Most body contouring procedures are performed under general anesthesia. After surgery, tubes are usually placed in the wound to drain excess fluid, and patients are given medications to control pain and discomfort.

For the next two to four weeks after surgery, soreness, swelling, and bruising is normal. Most people can return to work after two to four weeks, but people with physically demanding jobs need to wait longer. During this recovery period, you will follow up at your doctor’s office regularly to monitor your progress.

Specific instructions may include avoiding bending, straining, or lifting for several days to weeks. Some patients may also need to avoid standing fully upright and stressing any internal sutures as they heal, and to sleep with pillows elevating the knees. To minimize the risk of blood clots, patients need to be up and walking as soon as possible and need to drink plenty of fluids.

Results After Body Contouring

Body contouring results are visible almost immediately; however, it can take a while to see the final results. The results are generally long-lasting, provided that the patient maintains a stable weight and general fitness. As your body ages, it is natural to lose some firmness. However, most of your initial improvements should remain.

Marvel Cosmetic Surgery offers a full range of body contouring procedures providing a more proportionate figure. Contact us today or call 615-538-0399 to schedule your free consultation. Let the Marvel team find the perfect procedure for you!

Otoplasty To Correct Protruding Ears

Posted on February 19, 2020 - Uncategorized

Otoplasty is not usually a recognized term outside the world of cosmetic surgery. This cosmetic ear surgery is often known as “pinning back” the ears. Otoplasty to correct protruding ears can improve the shape, position, or proportion of the ear. It can also correct defects in the ear structure due to injury or trauma.

What Causes Protruding Ears?

Protruding ears occur for many reasons and affects around five percent of the general population. Some attribute it to genetics, but most often, it happens randomly. Protruding ears occur by either the overdevelopment or underdevelopment of ear cartilage. It could also be the result of an injury to the ears.

Some ear deformities are self-correcting in babies, but if an external ear deformity has not self-corrected a week after birth, either Otoplasty or a non-surgical correction may needed.

Why Choose Otoplasty?

The correction of even minor deformities can have profound benefits to a person’s appearance and self-esteem. When the ears are too prominent, they can dominate a person’s entire appearance. Some ears protrude out at the sides too much, and others are just too large. Many children who have larger ears get teased because of their size or shape. This can lead to issues with self-esteem. Even adults with protruding ears can feel embarrassed to the point where it affects their everyday lives.

If protruding or disfigured ears bother you or your child, you may want to consider this procedure.

Procedure & Recovery

During the initial consultation, your doctor will answer all questions and discuss what to expect during the procedure and recovery. Most Otoplasties are performed in the surgeon’s office or an outpatient facility.

The actual surgery will last about two to three hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure for your particular case. Adults usually go home the same day, although with children, the doctor may prefer they stay in the hospital for one night. If you are undergoing a more complex procedure as an adult, you also may be required to stay in the hospital overnight.

For adults, the surgeon will probably use a local anesthesia with a sedative. Children will likely receive general anesthesia to put them to sleep, ensuring they cannot move around during the operation.

The incision is made behind the ear and will leave a thin scar, but it will be hidden. The scar will fade over time and in most cases becomes barely noticeable.

Bandages will stay over the ears for several days after surgery. After removing the bandages, a patient will wear a loose but supportive headband over the ears at night. This will help remove tension from the ears and prevent the ears from being pulled forward if the patient moves while sleeping.

Patients should plan to stay home for at least one week after the surgery. Regular activity and exercise can restart within two weeks. Activities that could cause trauma or injury to the ears during the recovery period should be avoided. It is crucial to avoid physical contact sports, such as judo, rugby, or football, for at least three months. Patients can resume swimming after about eight weeks if healed.

Numbness and mild bruising may last a few weeks after the procedure. The ears may also feel stiff for several months. Soreness, particularly at night, can last for a few months.

For best results, schedule the Otoplasty when the ears reach their full size, and the cartilage is completely formed. This happens typically around five years of age. For children with severely protruding ears, many recommend having the surgery at an early age before they are subjected to psychological stress related to the condition. However, it is never too late to make a change, and many adults also undergo this surgery.

Regardless of the reason for considering Otoplasty, the procedure has an exceedingly high rate of patient satisfaction.

If you are considering Otoplasty, contact us today or call 615-538-0399 to speak with a member of our helpful staff. Our team will answer all of your questions and help you make the most informed decision possible.

Good Candidates for Fat Transfer

Posted on February 19, 2020 - Fat Transfer

We all have areas of our body that store a little extra fat, especially as we age. There is now a safe and long-lasting procedure that helps the appearance of problem areas and provides natural-looking results. In fact, this procedure is so popular that many people have it each year. Read on to find out if you are a good candidate for fat transfer.

What is Fat Transfer?

A fat transfer is also known as fat grafting or fat injection. A fat transfer procedure aims to even out the body’s appearance by removing fat from problem areas and transferring it to other areas that lack volume. Fat can be taken from the outer thighs or abdomen and be moved to areas that need it, such as the buttocks, breasts, face, or hands.

Fat transfers are not only used to sculpt the body but to restore youthfulness to the face and eliminate scarring or depressions in the skin. It is also useful in correcting contour defects after breast lumpectomy and radiation therapy.

The most common areas enhanced by fat transfers are facial areas such as the cheeks, lips, and hollows under the eyes. Other areas are the breasts, hands, hips, and buttocks.

Why Consider Fat Transfer?

There are many good reasons to consider a fat transfer. This procedure is excellent for patients who want to rejuvenate their hands or face due to lost volume and wrinkles. This procedure is also a more permanent solution to what dermal fillers can provide. Patients that want to increase the size of their breasts and buttocks might also consider this option. Many people also use this procedure to plump their hands to hide aging, so the bones are not as prominent.

Using fat as a filler is ideal for its permanence and safety. There is no risk of reacting to a foreign substance in the body since this is your own fat. It also provides patients with the most natural-looking results.

Am I A Good Candidate?

A good candidate for a fat transfer procedure should be in good health and within a healthy weight range. Good candidates also need to have an area of substantial fat that can be used as a donor site.

As with any cosmetic procedure, patients will be happiest with their results if they have realistic expectations of the outcome. Suitable candidates should research to understand what a fat transfer can accomplish.

What To Expect

During the consultation, your doctor will review your medical history and establish if you are a candidate for a fat transfer procedure. Your doctor will also discuss the specifics of the process and answer any questions you may have.

Fat transfer procedures can take as little as an hour or up to four hours, depending on the areas treated. Your surgeon will numb the site that fat is taken from, then make a small incision and use a syringe to remove the fat. The fat is then purified and filtered before it’s transferred to small syringes. The placement is the last step of the procedure. Your surgeon will then prepare the site that’s receiving the fat transfer. A needle is passed in and out of the area, precisely depositing the fat in a natural grid. This process may have to be repeated several times to achieve the most natural results.

A benefit to this procedure is that it is non-invasive, so the recovery time is very short. You may experience temporary swelling and bruise in the areas where fat has been removed and grafted. The pain is usually minimal. The areas that received fat should look fuller and softer.

It may take a few months before the results look complete, and the results are permanent. In some cases, touchup procedures may be needed.

To find out more about a fat transfer, including whether you could be a good candidate, contact us or call 615-538-0399 to schedule your free consultation. Let the Marvel team find the perfect procedure for you!

Options for Rejuvenating the Neck

Posted on January 16, 2020 - Neck Lift

Neck Surgery MCS

The neck is an area that is often overlooked during many skincare routines. Premature aging is often noticeable in that area, especially if the facial area has been kept youthful and smooth with fillers and botox.

Loss of contour in the face and neck is due to a variety of factors. As we age, wrinkles appear as the skin becomes loose. Weight gain can cause fat to accumulate under the chin, and vertical neck bands will form from contracting these muscles. Sun exposure, genetics, gravity, environmental conditions, and stress also play a part in a sagging neckline.

Although surgery was traditionally the only way to rejuvenate the neck, these days, less-invasive options exist. It’s now easier than ever to improve the neck’s appearance and treat the signs of aging. Read on to learn how to rejuvenate the neck area beyond cosmetic surgery.

Topical Products

It is never too early to treat signs of aging, and topical products make up the first line of defense. Skin will look older when it is dry and not properly moisturized, and dull from the lack of exfoliating. Maintaining a consistent skincare routine and applying quality products is essential to prevent premature aging of the face and neck. Choose products that contain growth factors to help repair and rebuild the skin’s integrity. Also, use products with peptides, antioxidants, and vitamins to keep your skin healthy and vibrant. Always apply sunscreen daily to prevent sun damage and premature aging of the neck.

Botox

Botox is an effective way to treat early muscular changes in the neck. Many people like this option because it provides them with noticeable results, no surgery, and no recovery time.

When Botox is injected into the neck muscle, it can help the appearance of lines around the neck look less conspicuous. Botox also softens the look of tight platysmal bands. Platysmal bands are two strips of muscles that start at the base of your neck and run up the sides of your neck to the jaw, into the area where frown lines are prominent. Platysma banding is also known as a “turkey neck”, which is more common in women than men. When Botox is injected into these bands, it tightens the lax muscles.

Injections take about 10 minutes and are typically recommended 3 or 4 times per year. Results from a Botox neck lift can last up to 4 months and, when maintained, can provide long-term anti-aging benefits.

Laser Resurfacing

Another great option that doesn’t involve surgery is lasers. Laser resurfacing is ideal for neck skin that is wrinkled from long term sun exposure and aging. It uses the energy from an intense beam of light to ‘wound’ thin layers of skin. As this resurfaced area heals, smoother, and tighter skin forms.

CO2 Laser Resurfacing is a treatment that can be used on the neck, chest, and hands to minimize wrinkles, sun damage, and age spots. CO2 laser resurfacing can effectively improve the skin texture, fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, and overall tissue slackening.

Each treatment is tailored to the specific needs of the patient. The whole face can be resurfaced in approximately 15 minutes using a topical anesthetic and a cold air chiller.

Cosmetic Surgery

Not everyone who is unhappy with the appearance of their neck needs neck lift surgery. If the concern is excess fat under the chin, this can be taken care of with a liposuction procedure. However, if there are loose, excess skin and muscle banding in the neck, then a neck lift may be the most appropriate choice.

A neck lift, or lower rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that reduces the visible signs of aging in the jawline and neck. A neck lift procedure will improve the appearance of loose, sagging skin under the jawline and restore a youthful contour.

A neck-lift remains the best bet for a striking, lasting fix. During a surgical lower face and neck lift, the muscles of the lower face and neck are tightened, and the skin is redraped and sutured in place. The recovery time for a lower face and neck lift is typically two weeks.

Would you like to learn more about neck rejuvenation? The Marvel team can help you find the perfect procedure for you. Contact us today at 615-538-0399 to schedule your free consultation!

Skincare Tips for Winter

Posted on January 16, 2020 - Dermal Fillers, Facials, Injectable Fillers

Skincare MCS

Winter weather is undoubtedly harsher on our skin than warmer seasons, yet many people don’t think to switch up their skincare routine. Cold air, low humidity, and blistering winds each create uncomfortably dry skin or skin that is itchy, red, and irritated. During colder seasons, our skin needs much more help to stay hydrated.

This winter, combat dry winter skin with a few simple skincare tips. After all, retaining your skin’s natural moisture means maintaining your youthful glow all year long.

Water

Many people don’t drink enough water throughout the day, and when it’s cold outside, it’s much easier to forget this step. Since weather with low humidity is most likely to strip skin of moisture, staying hydrated is vital. Sipping water slowly throughout the day rather than gulping it all at once will help the skin stay hydrated. If cold water isn’t doing it for you, drinking tea is also a great way to keep hydrated. Sip on warm teas with natural ginger or lemon.

Cleanse

You may need to switch your summer cleanser for a more effective winter one. In the winter, cleansers with harsh chemicals will feel much more damaging than nourishing. Avoid products with alcohol and added fragrances, as they can strip away natural oils and create dry, cracked skin. Look for products specifically labeled “fragrance-free,” because products simply marked “unscented” may actually contain some fragrance. Instead, choose a cream-based cleanser that will help lock moisture in.

Exfoliate

When winter weather creates dry, itchy skin, exfoliating is probably the last thing on your mind. However, but there are many benefits to exfoliating the skin during the winter. Not only does it slough off dry, dead skin cells, but it also helps regenerate new skin cells. The key is to use a gentle exfoliator that is also very moisturizing and won’t strip moisture from the skin. Add this to your skincare routine once or twice a week at night. After completing this step, slather your skin in a rich moisturizer.

Shower

In the winter, nothing feels better than taking a hot shower or bath. However, hot water not only dehydrates you, but it may also strip away the necessary oils from your body. Hot water evaporates fast, and if the skin is not moisturized quickly, it may crack. Cracks in the skin expose the nerves to air. This can result in what feels like a thousand paper cuts and eczema, or winter’s itch.

If you do indulge in a hot shower or bath, keep your bathroom door closed, and after you dry your body off, moisturize generously.

Also, avoid using excessively hot water to wash your hands. Washing your hands in warm water and might be less irritating to the skin. Always moisturize after washing hands with soap.

Moisturize

We’ve already stated many times to moisturize, but this step is crucial for keeping skin hydrated throughout the winter. Apply a very thick moisturizer as soon as you get out of the bath or shower and then one more time per day to help keep your skin feeling nice and smooth. You can also layer oil on your face and body before applying your cream-based moisturizer to really lock in the hydration.

Avoid the most significant mistake people make hydrating during the winter, which is choosing a lotion instead of a cream. Lotions usually come in pumps, so they’re not as thick, and they’re not as moisturizing. With dry skin, it’s important to use thicker creams or balms, which come in jars or ointments.

Sunscreen

In the summer, you may automatically reach for sunscreen, but most people don’t think to apply it during the winter. Harmful UV rays can still permeate clouds during the darker, dreary days and cause damage. Sunscreen is essential to shield from those harmful UV rays. Choose a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 protection and make sure to cover all the exposed areas of your body.

Would you like help to maintain your skin this winter? The Marvel team can help you find the best products or treatments for your skin. Contact us today at 615-538-0399!

Non-Surgical In-Office Treatments with Quick Results

Posted on December 13, 2019 - Dermal Fillers, Injectable, Injectable Fillers

These days, both women and men are choosing non-surgical treatments that offer quick, sometimes immediate, results. The benefit of these non-surgical procedures is that they are done in-office. They allow people to skip a long recovery time and eliminate the risk of complications sometimes associated with surgery.

From lasers to injectables to non-surgical facelifts, there are now a plethora of cutting edge options designed to make you appear refreshed, tightened, and years younger than you are

Below we’ll highlight some fantastic non-surgical procedures you can do in-office with quick results so you can continue to look your best!

Facial Treatments

Regular facial treatments will improve the tone, texture, and clarity of your skin. With consistent maintenance, your skin will appear younger and healthier, making you seem more youthful. There are several facial treatments designed to renew and revitalize your skin with minimal downtime.

Corrective facials, microdermabrasion, dermaplaning, and peels all provide immediate and long-lasting results.  Consistent treatments will reduce age spots, freckles, and hyperpigmentation (including melasma). They will also soften lines and wrinkles, clear up acne, reduce or phase out acne scars, and stimulate the production of collagen for firmer, more youthful skin. 

In-office facial treatments vary from 30 minutes to 90 minutes, and the results are noticeable immediately

Injectables & Dermal Fillers

Men and women can use injectables and dermal fillers to look younger without the downtime or cost of invasive surgery. Injectables and dermal fillers lessen the effects of aging by restoring lost volume, smoothing out wrinkles, plumping flat lips, and correcting hollowed out skin areas.

There are two types of injectables. One works by relaxing facial muscles such as Botox or Dysport, and the other works by plumping up wrinkles or folds, such as Juvederm or Restylane. Both treatments are done in-office and offer almost immediate results.

Non-Surgical Facelift

A non-surgical facelift is a combination of minimally invasive and non-surgical procedures designed to rejuvenate and refresh the appearance of the face. This procedure does not require large incisions, general anesthesia, or overnight hospitalization. Patients are usually in and out of the office quickly, enjoy little post-op discomfort, and minimal recovery time. The results from a non-surgical facelift are significant, as it fills furrows and wrinkles, provides a lifting effect in the face and breasts area, and corrects atrophic scars.

Marvel Cosmetic Surgery performs a less invasive facelift using Adivive™ fat transfer system. This technique uses the body’s existing stem cells (found in fat tissues) to help regenerate tissues.  This procedure provides a more predictable outcome, and harvesting your fat can be more cost-effective than using some types of synthetic fillers. It offers quick, lasting results without invasive surgery or long recovery time.

Laser Treatments

Laser treatments improve the skin’s tone, texture, and appearance. And with all the advancements in laser technology, surgeons are now able to perform a variety of procedures in a minimally invasive way with incredible results. 

Laser treatments are done in-office in as little as a 20-minute session. Afterward, patients immediately notice results, such as a youthful glow, softer skin, and reduced pore size. Routine treatments can produce lasting results and keep your skin looking youthful and healthy.

Would you like to enhance your appearance and see results quickly? The Marvel team can help you find the best procedure for you and your schedule. Contact us today at 615-538-0399 to schedule your free consultation!

Tummy Tuck Transformation

Posted on December 13, 2019 - Tummy Tuck, Tummy Tuck Recovery

Tummy Tuck

We all strive to look our best, yet sometimes, despite hard work, the body we want still isn’t ours. Pregnancy, hormones, and genetics all play a part in how our body looks and changes over time. But today, aging gracefully is achievable and more accessible than ever.

Many people turn to cosmetic surgery to sculpt the body they want, especially when their best efforts aren’t working. If sit-ups are not transforming your stomach or if you have extra flab or excess skin that doesn’t respond to diet or exercise, a tummy tuck might be the next step.  

While fat reduction treatments are becoming popular, they simply won’t give you the dramatic effect and transformation of a tummy tuck. A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgery that removes extra fat and skin. It also flattens the abdomen and tightens muscles in the abdominal wall.

There are two types of procedures, a mini tummy tuck, and a full tummy tuck. Below we will explain each one and help you decide if you are an ideal candidate for this transformative surgery.

Mini Tummy Tuck

A mini tummy tuck is a surgical procedure that flattens the look of the belly below the belly button. A single incision is made just above the pubic mound, and then your cosmetic surgeon will tighten loose muscles and remove excess skin to achieve a smooth and flat abdominal wall.

If you are mainly concerned with a “pooch” or loose skin and stretch marks below the belly button, a mini-tummy tuck may be a good option for you. The benefits of a mini-tummy tuck include a shorter, less involved procedure, a quicker recovery time, and a flat lower abdomen.

However, if your concerns extend above the belly button as well, you may need to consider a full tummy tuck.

Full Tummy Tuck

A full tummy tuck is a surgical procedure that reduces excess fat and skin from the waist. In most cases, it can also restore weak or separated muscles to create a smoother and firmer abdominal profile. A horizontal or U-shaped incision is made above the pubic mound, then your cosmetic surgeon will remove excess skin and tighten the abdominal muscles. In some cases, a second incision is done around the navel to address excess skin above the belly button.

If you are concerned with roundness or excess skin folds above and below your belly button, a full tummy tuck may be right for you. The scar from a full tummy tuck will typically run from hip bone to hip bone, but can usually be hidden beneath a swimsuit bottom. Benefits of a full tummy tuck include a flatter, smoother abdomen, and the reduced appearance of stretch marks.

Best Candidates For a Tummy Tuck

Tummy tucks can help anyone whose body has undergone dramatic changes from weight loss or pregnancy. A tummy tuck is suitable for women and men who are in good health or those who were once obese and still have excess fat deposits or loose skin around the belly.

Women who have experienced one or several pregnancies may find this procedure helpful for tightening abdominal muscles and reducing loose skin.

Is A Tummy Tuck Right For You?

Before undergoing a tummy tuck, patients should consider whether they can achieve the results they want with diet and exercise or with a less invasive procedure. Some transformations, however, will only be attainable through a tummy tuck.

Although the results of a tummy tuck are technically permanent, your transformation can be impacted by significant fluctuations in weight. Individuals who are planning substantial weight loss, or women are considering future pregnancies are advised to postpone this procedure. During surgery, vertical muscles are tightened, and future pregnancies can separate those muscles.

It’s also important to remember that tummy tuck surgery is not a substitute for weight loss or an appropriate exercise program for a flat stomach.

Are you considering a tummy tuck? The Marvel team can help you find the correct procedure for you. Every patient of ours is offered a complimentary consultation before they undergo any procedure.

Contact us today at 615-538-0399 to schedule your free consultation!

Male Breast Reduction: Men Can Have Boobs Too!

Posted on November 15, 2019 - Body contouring, Gynecomastia

Who can forget the iconic Seinfeld episode when Kramer invents “the Bro,” a supportive undergarment for men with enlarged breasts? He tries to help George’s father, Frank Costanza, deal with the discomfort of his “man boobs” by designing the man’s version of a bra. Unfortunately, Kramer and Frank can’t sell their idea, and it never takes off.

That plot in the Seinfeld episode is full of one-liners and goofy situations, which makes for funny television.

But for those men who suffer in real life from enlarged breasts, they’re not laughing.

In fact, “man boobs” will affect at least 30% of males in their lifetimes, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information. This condition’s official name is gynecomastia. Those who suffer from it experience anxiety, psychosocial discomfort, and fear of breast cancer.

Treating gynecomastia becomes paramount to give patients overall health, wellbeing, and peace of mind. A male breast reduction procedure uses a combination of liposuction and direct excision to reduce the fat and glandular tissue from the breast area, producing a natural, more masculine chest.

What to Expect With Male Breast Reduction

The male breast reduction surgery requires general or local anesthesia — depending on the extent of your reduction — and is done on an outpatient basis. Once the excess tissue is reduced, you will be left with a flatter, firmer chest contour. The procedure is both effective and long-lasting in getting rid of your “man boobs.”

Male breast reduction side effects include swelling and discomfort following surgery, which can be controlled with prescription pain medication. You’ll be given an elastic pressure garment that you’ll need to wear for about two weeks following surgery to help reduce the swelling. Once your stitches are reduced (after two weeks), you can resume normal activities. However, strenuous exercise, sexual activity, or anything else that may risk a blow to the chest should be avoided. 

Male breast reduction surgery may be right for you if:

  • You are healthy
  • Your weight is stable and relatively normal
  • Your breast development has stabilized
  • You have realistic expectations

Schedule Your Consultation for Male Breast Reduction

Don’t suffer any longer with “man boobs”! The condition isn’t funny, and we can help you get the chest you want to see when you look in the mirror. Male breast reduction surgery works, making you more confident at the beach, in the locker room, or in the bedroom.

For more information on gynecomastia surgery, call us at 615-610-7274 or contact us today to schedule a consultation.

 

Three Key Things to Know About Butt Augmentation

Posted on November 15, 2019 - Buttocks Contouring

Butt Augmentation

If you’d like to improve the appearance of your backside, a buttock augmentation is a popular choice.

As you research this procedure, consider these three key things to know about butt augmentation.

  1. Options for a Butt Augmentation

We offer two options for butt augmentation. Both are safe and effective, but our team can help advise you on which one will best suit your unique situation and help achieve your goals.

  • Brazilian Butt Lift – A procedure that does not require implants but uses fat from other areas of your body. During this procedure, the doctor transfers your body fat to lift the buttocks and create your desired shape.

    In general, you are a good candidate for a Brazilian Butt Lift if:

    • You want a buttock augmentation without implants
    • You have adequate fat stores in other areas to harvest for injection into the buttocks
    • You are willing and able to avoid sitting directly on your buttocks for several weeks
  • Butt Implants – This procedure starts with the creation of a well-hidden incision, typically in the center of the buttocks crease (the sacrum). A pocket is then formed above, below, or within the gluteal muscle. One of our surgeons then carefully places the implant within the pocket before completing the procedure by closing the incision with sutures.

    In general, you are a good candidate for butt implants if:

  • You want to increase the fullness, roundness, and projection of your buttocks.
  • You want to improve the balance of your figure.
  • You are willing and able to avoid sitting directly on your buttocks for several weeks.

  1. Your Shape Will Change

Even though butt implants produce immediate results, a Brazilian Butt Lift will take six months to a year for the fat transfers to settle.

Also, keep in mind that changes in weight could also affect your butt’s appearance and shape. It’s best to be at your goal weight before getting a Brazilian Butt Lift.

  1. Be Prepared for Post-Procedure Downtime

Recovery for either procedure is important and time-intensive. Even though you may be up and walking within a couple of days after a butt augmentation procedure, you will not be allowed to put any pressure on the buttocks for several weeks. This makes sitting, lying, and sleeping challenging.

During recovery, expect these restrictions:

  • You will not be allowed to sit or lie directly on your buttocks for at least 8 weeks after surgery. You will need to sleep on your stomach or side.
  • You will be given a compression garment to treat the areas where the liposuction was performed. You will need to wear this garment for at least 8 weeks after surgery.
  • Most patients will be allowed to resume all normal activities 8 weeks after surgery.
  • Even after the first 8 weeks of recovery, patients should still avoid sitting for prolonged periods of time and should use a cushion when sitting.
  • Be patient. After surgery, you’ll see a lot of bruising and swelling. It could take as long as 6 months before your body will reveal the final result. That’s all part of the healing process.

You, of course, should confirm your post-operation recovery plan with your doctor, but know going into surgery that the healing period may be long.

Find Out Which Butt Augmentation Procedure Is Right for You

Our team is committed to helping you navigate the options for butt augmentation. We want to help you get the figure you’ve been dreaming of! Butt implants or a Brazilian Butt Lift may be the right procedure to help you reach your goals.

Give us a call at 615-610-7274 or contact us today to book your consultation!