Surgery on the Face

Q: Can laser resurfacing or chemical peels be done at the same time as a facelift?
A: Yes, but resurfacing can only be done on areas where the skin has not been freed from the underlying tissues (i.e. the area of the mouth). Resurfacing around the mouth is a nice addition to a facelift, because the wrinkles around the mouth are not addressed by a facelift. (top of page)

Q: How long does a facelift last?
A: A facelift that places sutures in the SMAS will last eight to ten years. (top of page)

Q: Am I too young for a facelift?
A: Everyone ages differently and this is very dependent on your inherited skeletal structure. The trend is towards less aggressive surgery at a younger age to maintain a more natural appearance. I have a large number of patients who have facelifts in their mid 40's for this reason. (top of page)

Q: Why do you prefer endoscopic over traditional brow lifts?
A: Endoscopes reduce the size and number of incisions. This is important in brow lifts because it reduces the risk of hair loss and other complications of traditional brow lifts. (top of page)

Q: When would you not do an endoscopic brow lift?
A: Patients who have a high hairline and long forehead are better served by a hairline brow lift so that the hairline can be lowered while also elevating the brows. (top of page)

Q: Do you do facelifts, brow lifts, and eyelid lifts all at the same time?
A: Yes. Doing all three at once creates better harmony between all areas of the face, because no one area appears much younger than others that have not received treatment. (top of page)

Liposuction

Q: What is ultrasonic liposuction?
A: The ultrasonic technique uses a sound wave to liquefy fat prior to its removal. (top of page)

Q: What are the advantages of ultrasonic liposuction?
A: Greater amounts of fat can be removed more easily, especially from fibrous areas of the body like the love handles or upper abdomen because the sound wave breaks up these fibrous areas prior to fat removal. The liquefied fat also results in a smoother result at the skin's surface. (top of page)

Q: Does liposuction improve cellulite?
A: No. Liposuction removes fat, but it does not change skin quality. (top of page)

Q: Do you get close to the internal organs during liposuction or tummy tucks?
A: No. Liposuction is done superficial to the abdominal muscles. During tummy tucks, I tighten the abdominal muscles by placing stitches on the surface of the abdominal muscles, but the abdomen is not entered. (top of page)

Breast Implants

Q: Do you place breast implants above or below the muscle?
A: In the vast majority of cases I place implants below the muscle, because I believe this gives you a softer result. The muscle action on the implant breaks up scar tissue around the implant that can result in hardness of the breast. In trim patients with limited breast tissue, the muscle also gives additional coverage for the implant, which make the breast feel more natural. (top of page)

Q: Do incisions around the nipple result in decreased nipple sensation?
A: It is extremely rare to see decreased sensation of the nipple with this incision. The nerve to the nipple enters the breast in a predictable location and care is taken at the time of surgery to protect his nerve. (top of page)

Q: Do you offer Silicone implants?
A: Yes. I am on an experimental protocol that allows me to use silicone in certain cases. (top of page)

Q: When do you think Silicone is a better choice?
A: Patients who are trim with limited breast tissue are at risk for rippling when using saline implants due to the limited amount of tissue they have to cover the implant. In these cases silicone can give a more natural and softer result with decreased rippling. (top of page)

Q: Do you recommend routine removal and replacements of implants every 10-15 years?
A: No. I only recommend removal if you are having problems with your implants or if they have deflated. (top of page)

Non-Surgical Treatment

Q: How long does it take for botox to take effect?
A: It usually takes between 3 and 7 days for botox to take effect on wrinkles. (top of page)

Q: How long does botox last?
A: Botox lasts between 4 and 6 months. (top of page)

Q: When will I be able to wear make-up after laser resurfacing?
A: Make-up can be worn 7-10 days after the treatment, and you skin will be red for 3-8 weeks after the treatment. (top of page)

Disclaimer:
The information provided here is intended to educate the reader about certain medical conditions and certain possible treatment. It is not a substitute for examination, diagnosis, and medical care provided by a licensed and qualified health professional. If you believe you or someone you know suffer from the conditions described herein, please see your health care provider immediately. Do not attempt to treat yourself or anyone else without proper medical supervision.

Steven K. Struck, MD

Specialist in the Restoration of Beauty and Form

Surgery on the Face

Liposuction

Breast Implants

Non-Surgical Treatment