I’ve Always Wanted a Breast Reduction. What Do I Need to Know?
Are your breasts keeping you from the life you want to live? Many women with overly large breasts feel limited in what they can do and what they can wear. They may experience daily pain and discomfort along with self-consciousness and embarrassment. In fact, Modern Family’s Ariel Winter recently talked to the media about the pain she lived with before getting breast reduction surgery.
If you’re thinking about breast reduction, you’re probably seeking more information. This guide will answer frequently asked questions about the procedure, but we’re also happy to answer any additional ones you may have during your consultation.
What Is Breast Reduction?
Breast reduction surgery—also called reduction mammoplasty—is a procedure to reshape and resize disproportionately large breasts. This surgery can relieve many of the problems associated with large breasts, including pain and rashes. During the surgery, fatty and glandular tissue is removed along with excess skin. The breasts are then reshaped and re-positioned for a lifted, more attractive appearance. If needed, the areolas can also be resized and re-positioned.
Will My Insurance Cover Breast Reduction?
Many insurance companies cover a portion of breast reduction surgery for patients who meet specific requirements. We can help you determine if this applies to you during your consultation.
Will I Have Scarring After Breast Reduction?
Breast reduction surgery does involve incisions on the breasts, usually around the areola and vertically down the lower portion of the breast. In time, however, these scars will typically fade significantly. You should see the scars soften, flatten, and fade after about a year. Dr. Waldorf does her best to minimize scarring and maintain as much nipple sensation as possible.
What’s Recovery Like After Breast Reduction?
You will need some time to recover after breast reduction surgery. Most women take 1-2 weeks off from work, and resume normal activity about 4 weeks post-surgery. We will provide pain medication to increase your comfort. Patients wear a compression bra for several weeks to promote healing and reduce swelling. During your recovery, we will meet with you often to assess your progress and address any concerns you may have.
Will I Love My Breasts After Breast Reduction?
We always do our best to ensure that you are happy with your breasts after breast reduction. This procedure has a very high patient satisfaction rating. Most women would do the procedure again and love their new, smaller breasts.
Call and schedule your breast reduction consultation today.
How to Choose the Best Breast Implants for You
One of the most complex decisions you’ll have to make during the breast augmentation process is the type of implant you want to achieve your ideal breasts. What size/shape/type/texture of breast implants is right for you?
If you’re having trouble choosing the right implants, don’t worry. Dr Waldorf, or Dr. Streu would be happy to brief you on your options, and each can also make personalized recommendations for your body type and aesthetic goals. Call us today and schedule a consultation.
Choosing the Right Size Breast Implants
Don’t worry about being “too big” or “too small” after your breast augmentation. Our goal is to help you find the breast implants that are “just right”. The right size implant for your body depends on a variety of factors, including your desired final appearance, the amount of existing breast tissue you have, and even your body shape and lifestyle. During your consultation, we’ll talk about your goals and carefully examine your body to determine what size implant will work best for you.
Saline or Silicone- Which Implant Type Is Best for You?
Which implant type is best—saline or silicone? You may be surprised to learn that both have their benefits. We offer saline and silicone implants in a variety of shapes and sizes. We also offer anatomically shaped Naturelle 410 implants.
What Shape Is Best?
Did you know that implants can come in a variety of different shapes? They can be round, teardrop-shaped, or even anatomically shaped (mimicking the shape of the natural breast). There are also varying profile ranges on implants (from low to high) to ensure that you get just the right amount of projection.
Which Implant Is Right for Me?
If you’re feeling confused by your many breast implant options, don’t worry. One of our experienced doctors will guide you through the augmentation process and help you choose the right implants. Her goal is not just to increase size, but to perfect the shape of your breasts and provide stunning, natural looking results.
Best of all, we make sure that every patient loves her new look before surgery. We’ll let you “try on” your new implants with Vectra 3D Imaging during your consultation. This revolutionary imaging system can show you what you’ll look like with a variety of implant shapes, sizes, and types. You can be confident in knowing that you’re making the right choice!
Call today and schedule your breast augmentation consultation.
How Do I Know if I Need Botox or Fillers?
Are you thinking about injectables? Dermal fillers and Botox can quickly improve your appearance, reducing signs of aging without surgery or downtime. Which treatment is best for you? Do you need dermal fillers, Botox, or both? Find out below.
Dermal Fillers - Smooth, Volumize, and Contour
Dermal fillers are a very versatile rejuvenation treatment. They can add volume to the lips, fill in lines and wrinkles, and shape and contour. To ensure the best results for each patient, we provide a careful examination before each treatment. During this consultation, we discuss your goals so we can choose the right product.
We offer a wide range of dermal fillers, including:
- Juvederm XC- This is a smooth gel hyaluronic filler that is ideal for smoothing wrinkles and augmenting the lips.
- Juvederm Voluma XC- Injected deep into the cheeks, this hyaluronic acid filler can restore volume to the mid-face.
- Restylane- Made of hyaluronic acid, Restylane can be used in lip augmentation and to treat moderate to severe wrinkles and folds.
- Restylane Lyft- Formerly known as Perlane, Restylane Lyft can be used in cheek augmentation and to fill in severe nasolabial folds.
- Radiesse- Made of microspheres of calcium hydroxylapatite in a gel solution, Radiesse is an excellent option for cheek augmentation and lifting sagging facial skin (jowls).
- Belotero Balance- For small, superficial lines, Belotero Balance is often the preferred treatment. It is used on tear troughs, frown lines, etc.
Botox - Fade Away Wrinkles Caused by Muscle Activity
While dermal fillers work by restoring volume, Botox works by relaxing muscles that cause certain types of wrinkles. This treatment is very effective, but it only works on specific wrinkles. We use Botox to treat lines between the brows, crow’s feet, forehead wrinkles, etc.
Botox treatment takes just a few minutes, with results that appear in a couple of days and last 3-4 months. Year after year, Botox is the most popular minimally invasive cosmetic treatment in the U.S.
Great Alone, but Better Together
Botox and dermal fillers are effective anti-aging treatments on their own but, when you pair them together, get ready to be amazed. These treatments are excellent complements to each other, and can often be performed during the same office visit. We’ll use Botox to treat crow’s feet, forehead wrinkles, and other wrinkles caused by muscle activity and dermal fillers to smooth out your skin and restore volume. The end result is complete rejuvenation from brow to chin. You’re going to look amazing!
Call today and ask us about our injectable treatment options. Now is the time to take advantage of noninvasive rejuvenation, as we are offering $50 off Botox (while supplies last) during the month of March!
Cleft Palate Surgery: A Memorable Transformation
Dr. Waldorf loves transformations, and helping each of her patients achieve a new look is one of her favorite parts of being a plastic surgeon. Although each case is special, some of them are more memorable than the rest. Here is the story of one of those extraordinary transformations.
Dr. Waldorf’s Trip to Vietnam
On a recent trip to Vietnam, Dr. Waldorf and several doctors from Project Vietnam Foundation were walking the corridors of Military Hospital 175. They were following up on patients during morning procedural rounds. As their checks came to an end, they ran into little Thi Dung Trang, a young girl with severe cleft palate. Unfortunately, the pre-screening process had already closed, and Thi Dung Trang and her family were turned away. They were preparing to return to their remote village many hours away without the surgery Thi Dung Trang needed.
This sweet young girl captured Dr. Waldorf’s heart when she peeked around a door and found her way to the group of doctors. She then wrapped her arms around Dr. Waldorf’s leg and gave her a big hug. Dr. Waldorf explains, “It is a moment where you feel like you were sent there at that moment as a guardian angel and that motherly feeling just embraces you. I just had to do it, she needed me.”
Dr. Waldorf took it upon herself to make sure this young girl received the needed surgery. She invited the family back the next day. During a 4.5-hour surgery, she reconstructed this young girl’s face and created the perfect appearance this girl had been waiting a lifetime for. Dr. Waldorf loved being able to fulfill this young girl’s dreams and give her the beautiful face she was meant to have.
Thi Dung Trang and her family didn’t speak traditional Vietnamese but, rather, a minority language that was not easily understood by anyone at the hospital. It was difficult to communicate with them, but we could definitely tell that Thi Dung was elated by the results of her surgery. She carried a picture of herself that she would often look at to give her strength.
Of all the surgeries completed on this recent trip, Thi Dung Trang’s is one of the most memorable for Dr. Waldorf. Plastic surgery can be so transformative and, even more than that, truly heartwarming.
I’m Having a Mastectomy and Want to Know More About Breast Reconstruction.
Preparing for a mastectomy is a trying, emotional time. It can be difficult to think about the future when you’re worried about the right now. Life is filled with exams and doctor’s appointments, but we encourage you to add one more appointment to your list. Meet with a plastic surgeon and discuss breast reconstruction. The ultimate decision to reconstruct or not is yours but, by meeting with a plastic surgeon, you can better understand your options—both now and in the future. Get the information you need about breast reconstruction before your mastectomy; call and schedule a consultation with Dr. Waldorf.
Do I Really Want Breast Reconstruction?
The decision on whether to reconstruct can be a difficult one. Some women know immediately that breast reconstruction is their preferred choice, but others aren’t as sure. This is a decision that deserves plenty of time and information. You may feel that cancer has taken control of your body but, remember, you still have choices.
Seeking a consultation with a breast reconstruction surgeon prior to your mastectomy can be a valuable tool during the decision making process. You can learn about your options for reconstruction now or in the future (including immediate reconstruction). Whether you ultimately decide to have reconstruction or not, the information you gain is invaluable in making an informed decision about your body.
Immediate or Delayed Reconstruction - What Do I Need to Know?
Most women are candidates for immediate breast reconstruction, which combines the first stage of reconstruction with your mastectomy surgery. This can help women feel more in control and is a positive step forward during a difficult time. An immediate reconstruction also saves you from an extra surgery. Since the mastectomy and the first step in reconstruction are combined, you may end up with fewer surgeries and recovery periods than with a delayed reconstruction.
Delayed reconstruction is another possibility, and may be the best choice depending on your circumstances and treatment objectives. With a delayed reconstruction, the first step in reconstruction is performed after you’ve fully healed from your mastectomy. Dr. Waldorf can work closely with your oncologist to determine the most beneficial options for you.
If you’re preparing for a mastectomy, come see us at the Waldorf Center for Plastic Surgery to learn about breast reconstruction. We understand this is a difficult time, and we offer a compassionate and supportive environment for exploring your options. Call today!
I’m Ready for a Facelift. What Do I Need to Know?
If you’re ready to fight back against loose, sagging skin and rediscover a younger looking you, ask us about a facelift. This surgical procedure can take 8-10 years (or more) off of your appearance and restore a more youthful look. A facelift is best performed on patients with moderate to advanced signs of facial aging. If you’re thinking about a facelift, here’s what you need to know.
Take the First Step—Schedule a Consultation
If you’re thinking about a facelift, take the first step and schedule a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Waldorf. A consultation will give you the opportunity to ask any questions you have about the procedure as well as get personalized advice and recommendations for your face. During your consultation, we can help you determine if you’re ready for a facelift or if less invasive options (like Botox or dermal fillers) are more appropriate. We can also help you determine if complementary procedures could be beneficial.
What Is a Facelift?
A facelift—also known as a rhytidectomy—is a facial rejuvenation procedure that improves the appearance of the face by reducing common signs of aging. It accomplishes this rejuvenation by tightening deeper structures, removing and redistributing facial fat, and tightening and redraping the skin on the face and neck. Incisions are made around the ears and near the hairline. A facelift provides a dramatic transformation.
Many patients don’t realize that a facelift doesn’t treat the full face. It focuses on the lower portion of the face and the neck. It can be combined with other surgeries—like a brow lift—if full facial rejuvenation is needed.
Prepare for Recovery
Post-facelift recovery can take some time, so we encourage patients to clear their schedules appropriately before surgery. Giving yourself adequate time to heal can greatly improve your facelift experience. Patients generally need 10-14 days off of work, and they also need to avoid strenuous activity for about 4-6 weeks. We’ll give you specific advice about your recovery prior to surgery.
Are you ready for your facelift? Call our offices at 503-646-0101 to schedule your consultation today!
My Hands Are Revealing My True Age! Can Hand Rejuvenation Help?
Is your age a secret? Not if your hands have anything to say about it. The hands are one of the first areas that signs of aging appear and, unlike the face, they are often forgotten when it comes to cosmetic treatments and sunscreen. If you want your age to remain a secret, call us today and ask about hand rejuvenation.
I Want Younger Looking Hands. What Are My Options?
Youthful hands are full looking, without visible veins and tendons. They have a smooth, even skin tone and no sun spots, age spots, or brown spots. If you want to restore a more youthful appearance to your hands, you’ve got options. Here are a few of the hand rejuvenation treatments we offer at the Waldorf Center for Plastic Surgery.
- Dermal Fillers- If your hands have lost their youthful fullness, dermal fillers can help restore it. We typically inject the fillers into the dorsum area (back of the hand). This is an excellent option for patients with visible veins and tendons. Results are instant with little to no downtime. They are also lasting, but we will need to reinject the filler occasionally to maintain your results.
- Fat Injections- Fat injections are another option for restoring fullness to the hands. This treatment extracts excess fat from another area on the body and then injects it into the hands for a more rejuvenated appearance.
- Fraxel re:store- If your hands have a crepey appearance or brown spots and hyperpigmentation, Fraxel re:store is the solution. This laser resurfacing treatment can improve skin tone and texture with minimal recovery time. You’ll see initial improvement in just a few days, with continued improvement over time.
Is Hand Rejuvenation Right for Me?
If you’re unhappy with the appearance of your hands, call and schedule a consultation to learn about your options for hand rejuvenation. We often combine Fraxel re:store treatments with dermal fillers/fat grafting to achieve a rejuvenated appearance. We are happy to discuss your options and make personalized recommendations.
Hand rejuvenation results can be maintained, or the treatment can be performed for a special occasion. Many women opt for hand rejuvenation after getting engaged so their hands look younger in their engagement ring photos.
Call and schedule your appointment today!
Laser Treatments: Better Skin Sans Surgery or Needles!
Is your skin at its best? If not, come see us and experience rejuvenation. Surgery and needles aren’t necessary. Our laser skin treatments are very effective and can treat a variety of skin conditions, from excess hair to hyperpigmentation and even wrinkles. We don’t need a crystal ball to know that gorgeous skin is in your future!
Laser Hair Removal- Hairless Skin Awaits!
Are you sick of shaving? Do ingrown hairs leave your skin looking bumpy and irritated? Laser hair removal can help you discover the smooth, hairless skin you’ve always wanted. We use the Cyanosure Elite YAG laser—a fast and effective option that can be used on all skin types. A series of 4-6 treatments is typically needed.
Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing
Rough skin? Uneven pigmentation? Wrinkling? Skin discoloration? Many skin problems (including these and more) can be treated with fractional laser skin resurfacing. A fractional laser treats thousands of microscopic areas on the skin to remove damaged cells and stimulate healing for healthy, new skin. We offer both the Fraxel re:store and Fraxel re:pair devices for beautiful skin.
During your consultation, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of each treatment in regards to your skin type to help you decide which device will best meet your needs. In general, the Fraxel re:pair treats more deeply than the Fraxel re:store. A deeper treatment typically means great results with fewer treatments, but often requires a period of downtime. We’ll help you make the best selection for your skin and lifestyle.
I Want Beautiful Skin Without Needles or Surgery. What’s My Next Step?
Are you ready to take the next in discovering your best skin? Call today and schedule your consultation at the Waldorf Center for Plastic Surgery. Surgery isn’t the only way to look young and rejuvenated!
Give Yourself the Gift of Beauty this Valentine’s Day
Be your own Valentine this year and treat yourself to something extra special: the gift of beauty. We’ve got some great February specials to help you save money while getting the enhancements you’ve always wanted.
Free Breast Augmentation Consultations
If you’re not happy with the size, shape, or appearance of your breasts, call us. This month, we’re offering free breast augmentation consultations. Come in, learn more about the procedure, and decide if breast implants are right for you. This is a great opportunity to ask any questions you might have, and you will get personalized answers from one of our plastic surgeons. What are you waiting for?
This Valentine’s Day, give yourself the gift of a complimentary breast augmentation consultation. Is breast augmentation right for you? Find out!
Free NeoGraft Consultations
Men, we’ve got a Valentine’s Day gift for you too. If you’d love to have a full head of hair again, come see us. This month only, our NeoGraft consultations are free. Ask your questions, find out if the procedure is right for you, and take the first step towards restoring your hair. NeoGraft is a unique solution to hair loss that combines the superior results of the FUE method with an automated process. NeoGraft works on men and women with limited downtime and natural looking results. Get your hair back!
Skip the chocolates this Valentine’s Day and treat yourself to a complimentary NeoGraft consultation with one of our plastic surgeons. Call and book your appointment today.
Double Your Brilliant Distinctions Savings
We’re spreading the love this February by doubling your Brilliant Distinctions coupons. Bring your coupon to your Botox or dermal filler appointment and we’ll double its value, up to $50. This same offer applies to SkinMedica purchases. Give yourself the gift of gorgeous skin for less!
Valentine’s Day is all about love, and we want you to celebrate yourself. Call and schedule your free breast augmentation or NeoGraft consultation today. And bring in those Brilliant Distinctions coupons to double their value. Whether Cupid has made a direct hit or you’re flying solo this Valentine’s Day, it’s a great month to save at the Waldorf Center for Plastic Surgery.
5 Questions You Never Thought to Ask About Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation questions? We’ve got answers, even to those tricky questions you haven’t thought to ask. Don’t see your question on the list? Call and schedule a consultation and we’ll happily answer it for you. Call today!
What Will My Breasts Feel Like After Breast Augmentation?
After your breasts have fully healed and settled post-surgery, they will look and feel very similar to natural breasts but, in the early days, weeks, and months after surgery, they may feel a bit strange. Right after surgery, your new breasts often feel tight, hard, and swollen. You may feel a tingling sensation. The breasts will sit higher on the chest than natural breasts. It can take a few months for your implants to settle, after which they’ll look and feel like you’re expecting. Be patient; gorgeous breasts are coming. You’re going to love your new look.
Should I Place My Implant Over or Under the Muscle?
Breast implants can be placed over or under the muscle on the chest. There are advantages to both. During your consultation, we’ll explain your options and make some recommendations for your lifestyle, body type, and desired results.
Do I Need a Breast Lift?
Many women assume that breast augmentation will fix all of their aesthetic breast issues but, if you have sagging, you may need a lift in addition to your augmentation. These surgeries can often be performed together. A lift will help restore the breasts to a higher, more youthful position while the implants add volume and perfect shape.
Can I Still Breastfeed After Breast Augmentation?
Many women are surprised to learn that breastfeeding is often a possibility after breast augmentation. If you’re planning on additional children and are hoping to breastfeed, let us know. The incision type we use and the placement of your implant may increase your chances of breastfeeding success.
Can I Buy My New Bras Before Surgery?
If you’re hoping for 36C or 38D breasts after surgery, wait before you buy those bras. Bra sizing is determined by the manufacturer and isn’t standardized. When it does come time to buy new bras, shop for fit as opposed to the numbers on a tag. You should also be aware that it can take several months before your breasts achieve their final size. Many women buys bras slowly so they can easily replace them as their size changes.
Do you still have questions about breast augmentation? Call and schedule your consultation today!