In 2011, the plastic surgery community and the FDA noted a possible link between a rare form of cancer called ALCL, or anaplastic large cell lymphoma, and breast implants. Back then, we didn’t even know whether breast implants were a real risk factor. There simply were too few cases to make a connection.

Today, while there are still many questions, we know a lot more about the prevalence, risk factors, and treatment options for breast implant-associated ALCL (BIA-ALCL). I’d like to share some essential information with you today.

• What is BIA-ALCL?
• What causes BIA-ALCL?
• How many people have BIA-ALCL?
• Am I at risk of getting cancer from my breast implants?
• What are the symptoms of BIA-ALCL?
• How is BIA-ALCL treated?
• Can you die from BIA-ALCL?
• Why do surgeons still use textured implants?
• Should I have my textured breast implants removed?

What is BIA-ALCL?

BIA-ALCL is a very specific and rare form of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, which is an immune cell cancer. It is found specifically within the fluid and natural scar tissue surrounding the breast implant, which is called the capsule. It’s important to stress that while BIA-ALCL is located in immune system cells in the breast, it is not breast cancer.

What causes BIA-ALCL?

There appears to be a very strong link between textured implants and BIA-ALCL. A strong majority of reported BIA-ALCL cases have occurred in patients who have textured implants at the time of diagnosis, or who have had them in the past. A 2017 study showed that “macro” texturing methods (namely Allergan’s “Biocell” process) carry a significantly higher risk of BIA-ALCL than other methods, as they result in a higher surface area that can harbor more bacteria.

Implant shell type is not the only factor at play, however. The presence of certain bacteria in the implant’s biofilm (the normal collection of microbes surrounding an area) are also associated with higher BIA-ALCL risk, especially with macro-textured implants. The patient’s genetic predisposition may also play a role.

How many people have BIA-ALCL?

According to the most recent published data (July 2019), the FDA has received 573 unique medical device reports (MDRs) of BIA-ALCL. Consider that about 450,000 women get breast implants each year for augmentation or reconstruction in the United States alone. Worldwide, 717 cases have been reported.

Am I at risk of getting cancer from my breast implants?

There is a risk, but it is very small. Based on current FDA numbers and breast implant data collected over the past 20 years, the lifetime risk lies between 1:3817 and 1:38000 for women who have or have had textured implants. The risk is even smaller if you have only ever had smooth implants. Note that the type of cancer associated with implants is a type of lymphoma affecting immune cells in the breast implant capsule, and not a form of breast cancer.

What are the symptoms of BIA-ALCL?

One good piece of news about BIA-ALCL is that it usually shows symptoms in the early stages, when it can be fully treated. These include:

• Swelling in one or both breasts
• Seroma (fluid accumulation) around the breast
• Breast pain that cannot be attributed to hormonal shifts)

In most cases, these symptoms will present at least one year after breast augmentation, with the average patient reporting symptoms at 8 years post-surgery. If you experience these symptoms at any time, see your doctor promptly. These can also be symptoms of other issues or complications, but should always be checked to rule out BIA-ALCL.

How is BIA-ALCL treated?

BIA-ALCL is highly treatable, especially if detected in the earlier stages. In most cases, removing the breast implants and surrounding scar tissue capsule completely eliminates the ALCL cancer from the body. If deemed safe for the patient, most plastic surgeons will perform an en bloc capsulectomy, which removes the capsule with the implant still sealed inside, to remove BIA-ALCL. In some cases, additional treatment such as chemotherapy or radiation may be indicated to fully treat the disease.

A note on en bloc capsulectomy

It’s important to understand that en bloc capsulectomy is not the only safe breast implant removal procedure, despite what some websites say. In fact, in some cases, it is not safe or possible to keep the capsule tissue intact when removing it from the body. For instance, if the capsule tissue has adhered to the rib cage, we will need to remove the implant (and most of the capsule) first, and then carefully remove remaining fragments of capsule tissue so as not to harm vital organs.

Can you die from BIA-ALCL?

Worldwide, there have been 33 confirmed deaths associated with BIA-ALCL, including 12 cases in the United States. Based on the reports we have, these patients received late diagnoses and So far, patients who have received prompt diagnosis and treatment have fully recovered from the disease.

Why do surgeons still use textured implants?

Following the discovery that macro-textured breast implants have the highest BIA-ALCL risk, several countries, including the United States and Canada, have pulled Allergan Biocell textured implants from the market.

Many plastic surgeons have discontinued their use of all textured implants—they can achieve an excellent aesthetic result with smooth implants, so why take the extra risk? For the most part, this is my line of thinking, too. I have long preferred smooth, round silicone gel breast implants for my breast augmentation patients. In addition to having a lower risk for BIA-ALCL, these implants achieve a beautiful shape and a more natural feel than firmer “gummy bear” textured implants.

Still, some may argue that it makes sense to keep textured implants as an option for specific patients whose anatomy calls for a shaped implant, such as breast reconstruction patients who have very little natural breast tissue left. In such cases, textured implants will provide an aesthetically pleasing shape and also stay in place as they “grip” the breast tissue..

Should I have my textured breast implants removed?

If you are not experiencing symptoms, it is not recommended to have breast implants removed prophylactically for a few reasons. First, if you are otherwise happy with your implants, the risks associated with additional surgery to take out implants are likely greater than your risk of BIA-ALCL. Second, removing textured implants and replacing them with smooth ones is unlikely to eradicate your risk for BIA-ALCL, as the disease has been found in patients who had a previous history of textured implants, even if they currently have smooth implants.

That said, if you simply no longer want your breast implants, that is reason enough to talk to a board certified plastic surgeon about your options for breast implant removal.

Have more questions? Please contact us at The Parker Center.

I am always happy to talk to patients about plastic surgery safety. If you are concerned about BIA-ALCL, or you are exploring your options for breast implant removal in New Jersey, please call us a 201-967-1212 or contact us online. I offer free cosmetic surgery consultations and will be glad to help you understand your options and help you achieve your aesthetic goals.

The post Why Do Surgeons Still Use Textured Implants? And 8 More Questions You Have About BIA-ALCL, Answered by a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon appeared first on Parker Center for Plastic Surgery.

Here at The Parker Center, one of our primary goals is ensuring our patients are well-informed and up-to-date on medical news that is pertinent to their safety. Yesterday, July 24, 2019, the FDA and breast implant manufacturer Allergan announced a voluntary recall of all Allergan BIOCELL textured breast implants.

Understandably, this news has led to many of our patients reaching out to make sure they are safe and unaffected by this recall. Before we get into the specifics of BIA-ALCL, the Allergan recall, and what it means for you, we want to remind and reassure our patients that the Parker Center for Plastic Surgery does not use textured breast implants for breast augmentation. We only offer smooth, round breast implants from Mentor to our patients, based on their record of safety.

What is BIA-ALCL?

Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a very rare form of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma that specifically develops in the capsule of breast tissue surrounding breast implants. It is not a form of breast cancer or cancer of the breast tissue itself.

To date, the FDA reports 573 unique cases of confirmed BIA-ALCL and 33 fatalities worldwide. When diagnosed early, BIA-ALCL is curable through the removal of the breast implant and implant capsule without recurrence of the disease.

Why were Allergan textured breast implants recalled?

The FDA, plastic surgery-related organizations, and individual researchers have been monitoring instances of BIA-ALCL since 2010. Over that course of time, the prevailing theory is that certain manufacturing processes used to texturize breast implants increase the risk of developing BIA-ALCL—an overwhelming majority of confirmed BIA-ALCL cases were found in patients who currently have textured breast implants or have had textured implants at one point in their lives.

Through further study and research, a trend emerged: in BIA-ALCL incident reports where the manufacturer of the implant was known, most cases involved patients who have or have had textured breast implants with a high surface area, such as Allergan BIOCELL textured breast implants.

After further monitoring, the FDA requested that Allergan voluntarily cease sales of BIOCELL textured implants and recommended that surgeons no longer implant these devices during breast augmentation.

Do I need to have my Allergan breast implants removed?

As of July 2019, the FDA does not recommend having Allergan textured breast implants removed if you are asymptomatic. This is because BIA-ALCL is a rare condition that has impacted only a very small percentage of women with breast implants, even among those with BIOCELL implants. Thus breast implant removal surgery is likely unnecessary if you are happy with your appearance and have no symptoms.

If you do notice any unexplained breast swelling or other symptoms, it’s important to inform your primary physician or board certified plastic surgeon. Properly diagnosing any breast augmentation complication is crucial to ensuring your health and happiness.

If you have any concerns or want to learn more about safe options for breast augmentation, or are considering implant removal, please contact my office.

The post Dr. Paul M. Parker Answers Your Questions About the Allergan Recall of Textured Breast Implants appeared first on Parker Center for Plastic Surgery.

Many female bodybuilders have come to me hoping to accomplish exactly that—and breast augmentation is common among bodybuilders as they progress through the sport. Since fat is a major component of the breasts, reducing body fat often results in a loss of breast volume. The change can be minor, or a woman may lose most of her breast volume. Breast implants can help restore feminine curves in lean athletes, but it takes a special approach to get natural-looking results that won’t interfere with workouts.

Below, I’ve answered some common questions that I hear from my New Jersey breast augmentation patients who are bodybuilders to help you better understand the unique considerations of surgery for patients like you.

Will breast implants look natural on a bodybuilder?

With less natural breast tissue to cover an implant, achieving a natural look with breast implants for low body fat patients can be a little more challenging, but it is definitely possible with the right plastic surgeon—someone who is board certified and who has specific experience helping muscular patients achieve their desired look.

Choosing the right implant size and shape for your body is key; your plastic surgeon can help you with this. In general, leaner patients will get a more dramatic result with a smaller implant compared to non-athletic patients, and many bodybuilders prefer a more conservative breast augmentation to ensure a look that fits their proportions and lifestyle. Implant placement can also make a difference in how natural breast implants look, which I address in the next question.

Should implants go over or under the muscle for bodybuilders?

This is an often-debated topic among plastic surgeons when it comes to breast implants for bodybuilders. While there are benefits and considerations with each placement option, ultimately it is a personal choice made between you and your plastic surgeon.

With subpectoral implant placement, the lower attachment of the pectoralis major muscle is released from the chest wall to create a space for the implant.  While commonly called “under-the-muscle” placement, the implant is actually only partially under the muscle, with the top portion of the implant covered by both breast tissue and muscle, and the bottom portion covered by breast tissue only. This technique usually provides a more natural breast appearance, especially in leaner patients, as the implant has greater tissue coverage vs. over-the-muscle placement. The risk for capsular contracture is also thought to be lower.

Dual plane placement is an advanced version of subpectoral placement that I have been using for many years. The lower attachment of the muscle is released, and the overlying breast tissue is partially released from the muscle as well. By releasing the tissue only slightly or to a greater degree, I can correct minor sagging while avoiding a full breast lift procedure. This can be a very attractive option for athletic patients, as the recovery is shorter and there is less scarring.

As a bodybuilder or avid weightlifter, you may be concerned about a possible loss of chest strength if the pectoral muscle is altered, as well as a visible change in breast shape when flexing the chest. When breast augmentation is performed correctly, loss of muscle strength is usually temporary and more due to taking time off exercise for recovery than it is to implant placement. Following recovery, most women are able to build back up to their previous fitness level.

With less natural tissue to cover an implant, achieving a natural look with breast implants for low body fat patients can be a little more challenging, but it is definitely possible with the right plastic surgeon—someone who is board certified and who has specific experience helping athletic patients achieve their desired look.

The bigger issue is a change in breast shape during exercise called “animation deformity.” Put simply, flexing the pecs can momentarily flatten a submuscularly placed implant. This can be conspicuous in certain situations, such as during a fitness competition where you may be wearing a bikini top while flexing. More permanent implant malposition with submuscular placement can also be a concern for powerlifters, as developing very strong pecs after breast augmentation could cause the implants to shift.

In such cases, subglandular placement may be a better option, with the tradeoff being that your breast implants may not look as natural. However, there are a few advantages to this option, such as a shorter recovery, and many patients are very happy with the way their breasts look with over the muscle placement. If going over the muscle, I would recommend silicone gel implants to minimize risk for visible rippling.

What are the best breast implants for muscular women?

Along with implant size, you’ll also need to consider what breast implant filling type and shape is best for you. There are many excellent breast implant options available; the best implants are those that fit your proportions, lifestyle, and goals. Most of my patients today choose silicone gel implants, as there is less risk for visible rippling or wrinkling with silicone vs. saline. Silicone implants also feel more natural, especially in patients who have little natural breast tissue to pad the implant.

If a naturally sloping breast is one of your goals, you may consider teardrop-shaped implants, which are designed to achieve this shape. That said, round silicone-gel implants often provide an equally natural shape that always persists, even if the breast implant shifts in its pocket.

As far as the risk of rupture, there’s very little difference between saline and the latest generation silicone gel, and the risk for both is very low—about 1% for every year old your breast implants are. Just keep in mind that a rupture will be noticeable with saline implants, as the implant will deflate, while an MRI or ultrasound will be required to detect a silicone rupture.

You must be okay with fitness taking a backseat for a little while after breast augmentation. A gym hiatus may be hard, but taking time to rest and recover is vital: you want to avoid complications and ensure your results heal beautifully.

When can I workout after breast augmentation?

Expect to take up to 3 weeks off of strenuous exercise, and 6 to 8 weeks off of exercises that directly involve the chest. This does not mean you have to sit on the couch the whole time. I encourage short, frequent walks ASAP after surgery, and most patients can gradually resume cardio and lower body exercises after about 2 weeks.

Before undergoing breast augmentation as a bodybuilder, it’s very important that you can accept your plastic surgeon’s terms of recovery and are okay with your fitness taking a backseat for a little while. A hiatus from the gym will undoubtedly be hard, but taking appropriate time to rest and recover will not only minimize risk of complications such as bleeding, seroma (fluid buildup), or poor scar healing, but will also ensure your results heal beautifully.

That said, most experienced plastic surgeons understand the desire to get back to normal as quickly as possible and take that into account throughout the surgery process. At The Parker Center, we have a unique Rapid Recovery program, which incorporates surgical techniques, medications, and massage to promote quicker healing. With this protocol, my patients are usually able to return to their previous activity level more quickly than expected.

Have more questions? Give us a call at The Parker Center

No matter what your body type or sport of choice, the most important thing you can do to get breast augmentation results you love is to choose a board certified plastic surgeon who understands your needs and who has the experience and skill to achieve your goals. If you have more questions, I invite you to contact us. We offer several options for initial consultations at The Parker Center to meet your needs. Call 201-967-1212 or contact us online.

The post A Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Answers Your Top 4 Questions About Breast Augmentation for Bodybuilders appeared first on Parker Center for Plastic Surgery.

The same is true of cosmetic procedures—and it now appears that the “Baywatch” look that was en vogue through the early 2000s may be on the out, as well as the large, round breast implants that often helped achieve that look. Throughout 2017, media sources form the New York Post to New Beauty reported on an emerging trend of women favoring smaller breasts.

A number of theories have been proposed to explain why achieving a more modest breast size is appealing to many women today, the main one being a general cultural shift toward a healthy, “natural” aesthetic, evident in the popularity of comfortable, soul-soothing attire (think yoga pants and bralettes), minimal-fuss hairstyles, and clean, whole-food eating.

Celebrities have championed the “less is more” idea when it comes to breast size as well, which inevitably reinforces our own tastes and goals for our appearance. A recent case in point is that of Amber Rose, who famously and publicly contemplated breast reduction to her Instagram followers.

Increased participation in fitness and endurance sports is another likely factor that we’ve seen in many of our own Paramus breast augmentation patients—women are choosing their breast implants with both form and function in mind. And in fact, small breast implants have certain advantages over very large ones, including a reduced risk for capsular contracture, and with less weight being supported by your breast tissue, premature sagging is less of an issue. You’ll also have a little more choice when bra shopping, especially for supportive sports bras.

Breast enhancement has always been about feeling great in your own skin. That hasn’t changed.

While trending tastes in breast size fluctuate throughout the years, achieving the largest possible breast size has never been our primary goal with breast augmentation. The majority of patients want to improve their overall breast symmetry and shape and get a level of fullness that flatters their natural proportions—and the truth is that a this can be achieved with a range of implant sizes. Those who want a larger boost will pick from the higher end their ideal size range, and those who want a more modest increase will pick from the smaller end of that range.

Considering your options for breast implants in New Jersey? Come see us for a consultation.

Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Paul Parker and our staff at the Parker Center for Plastic Surgery have over 30 years of experience helping patient find the right breast implants to fit their lifestyles, enhance their natural shape, and provide the confidence-boosting look they’re looking for. Contact us for a complimentary consultation and breast sizing session, where you can learn what’s possible with your many breast implant choices, large and small.

The post Is the Standard for Beauty in the US Shifting Toward Smaller Breasts? appeared first on Parker Center for Plastic Surgery.

Drum roll, please!

And the winner is…

Some procedures are always in style, just like your favorite little black dress. Year after year, liposuction, breast augmentation, and rhinoplasty continue to maintain their popularity, while other procedures fluctuate.

During 2016, the top five cosmetic surgery procedures performed by ASPS surgeons were:

• Breast Augmentation: 290,467 procedures, up 4% from the previous year
• Liposuction: 235,237 procedures, up 6%
• Nose Reshaping: 223,018 procedures, up 2%
• Eyelid Surgery: 209,020 procedures, up 2%
• Facelifts: 131,106 procedures, up 4%

In the non-surgical world, tried & true solutions are as popular as ever

There’s no question: minimally invasive and non-surgical treatments are a patient favorite for their often smaller price tags, lack of downtime, and quick results. But even as new technologies become available, there are a few clear favorites.

Did you know that BOTOX® and similar neurotoxin injectables (such as Dysport®) account for an overwhelmingly large percentage of non-surgical procedures every year? Injectables are so popular they also took second place with soft tissue fillers, such as Juvéderm®, Restylane®, and VOLUMA.

The 2016 top five non-surgical procedures:

• Botulinum Type A Injectables (BOTOX, Dysport, etc): 7 million procedures, up 4%
• Soft Tissue Fillers: 2.4 million procedures, up 6% from 2014 and 274% since 2000
• Chemical Peels: 1.36 million procedures, up 4%
• Laser Hair Removal: 1.1 million procedures, down 1%
• Microdermabrasion: 775,000 procedures, down 3%

Some surprising trending plastic surgery procedures (plus a few comebacks)

While certain procedures stayed consistent, there were a few surprises. Labiaplasty and vaginal plastic surgery, for instance, saw a whopping gain of 39% in the last year alone!

Facelift surgery made a comeback after a slight decline over recent years, for good reason. Despite the growing number of non-surgical anti-aging options available, facelift surgery remains the most effective solution for patients seeking more significant and lasting improvements.

Trendsetting at the Parker Center

It’s fun to see the changes taking place within the industry and, in turn, comparing national trends to what we’re seeing at our own practice. While we often see a correlation with the statistics provided by the American Society of Plastic Surgery, we also have noticed a few differences as well. For instance, new technological innovations—like HALO laser skin resurfacing, CoolSculpting non-surgical fat reduction, and Cellfina cellulite reduction—continue to gain exposure and high patient satisfaction ratings.

If you want to join the hundreds of thousands of patients in the US who feel more confident thanks to cosmetic medicine, we encourage you to contact us today. We would love to answer any questions you have or help you navigate your options during a consultation.

The post How Many People Had Plastic Surgery in 2016? appeared first on Parker Center for Plastic Surgery.

Talking about plastic surgery in the way that Kaley does—as something a person wants to do rather than something a person feels she needs to do to please society—empowers others who want to take ownership of their appearance.

Talk of the Big Bang Theory star’s cosmetic enhancements may be the latest in a stack of celebrity plastic surgery stories to hit headlines this year, but hers stood out to us for several reasons. First, she expresses her views about cosmetic surgery in a remarkably authentic way, noting that “as much as you want to love your inner self…you also want to look good.” Second, she has absolutely no qualms about having had plastic surgery, saying that her breast augmentation was “the best thing I ever did.” She also stresses that her choice to undergo surgery was entirely her own and that her procedures have had a positive impact on her life.

A photo posted by @normancook on Nov 27, 2016 at 2:54pm PST

We commend Kaley for being candid about such a personal experience, but even moreso, we commend her for making the choice what was right for her, without letting others influence her decision.

Stories like Kaley’s are so important to hear, as they affirm that, when done for the right reasons, plastic surgery can be life-enhancing, helping an individual improve aspects of their appearance that they wish to change and feel more confident in their appearance. Talking about plastic surgery in the way that Kaley does—as something a person wants to do rather than something a person feels she needs to do to please society—helps strip away lingering taboos about patients’ motives for seeking cosmetic enhancements and empowers others to take ownership of their appearance.

The bottom line: if, when or how you want to enhance your appearance should be entirely up to you. If plastic surgery is a step you wish to take, and a board certified plastic surgeon agrees it will help you reach your aesthetic goals safely and effectively, then go for it!

Read the full article about Kaley Cuoco here.

The post Kaley Cuoco’s Candid Chat About Plastic Surgery…and Why Her Story is Important appeared first on Parker Center for Plastic Surgery.

According to the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 286,694 women had breast augmentation surgery in 2014 alone. As the statistics show, breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic enhancements in the United States. It’s also one of the most misunderstood, and we’re here to clear some things up.

The Plastic Surgery Channel recently covered the life of breast implants and some things patients will want to consider before going under the knife—and we wanted to add a few extra details.

So, how long do breast implants really last?

Longer Than You Might Think

One of the most persistent myths regarding breast implants is that they will only last a decade—as if these medical devices were programmed to give out at a specific milestone. This misunderstanding likely stems from a combination of the limited warranties placed on implants many years ago, studies which report some increased risk of complication as implants age, and the fact that “ten years” is a nice, though arbitrary, number.

Truthfully, only about 10% of implants experience rupture and 90% of implants are safe for much longer than a decade—and implant manufacturers now offer lifetime warranties on breast implants that cover ruptures.

That being said, it’s not a bad idea to meet with your plastic surgeon around the 10 year mark to have your breasts examined, discuss what you still love or no longer like about your breast implants, and see if you want to take advantage of new options.

Reasons Why You May Consider New Breast Implants

While it is true that breast implants can last decades, there are reasons you may simply want to swap out your breast implants. The most common reason? Normal life changes. Pregnancy, breastfeeding, weight fluctuation, aging, and menopause can all impact your body, including your breasts. Many women find that, over the years, these life events can lead to breast sagging or loss of fullness in the upper breast.

Additionally, you may have changed. Many women’s lifestyles or aesthetic preferences shift over time, leading to a desire to increase or decrease your implant size, or swap your implants out for an alternative shape. Speaking with a surgeon can help you learn more about what your options are now or find out about other breast enhancement procedures to compensate for shape changes that have occurred over the years.

Modern Advancements

Compared to even a decade ago, breast implant technology has made great strides. Silicone breast implants are in their 5th generation of development, and there are more options than ever for safely achieving natural-looking results. Women can choose the right shape, size, profile, texture, material, and firmness to fit their unique needs.

Additionally, breast augmentation techniques are constantly being advanced. Reduced scar visibility, updated implant placement options, and rapid recovery protocols are among the many ways that plastic surgeons have advanced the procedure.

The First Step

If you have breast implants or if you’re simply wanting to research your options for the future, your first step is consulting with a board certified plastic surgeon.

If you’re in New Jersey, Dr. Parker would be happy to discuss the many options available to you during a personalized consultation. Contact us today to get started, or read more about breast implant maintenance on our blog.

To read the full article by The Plastic Surgery Channel, click here.

The post How Long Do Breast Implants Last? appeared first on Parker Center for Plastic Surgery.

Have you heard that breast implants expire or need to be replaced after 10 years? This is a persistent misconception—breast implants are not like a carton of milk; they do not have a predetermined shelf-life or start to “go bad” after a certain amount of time. The truth is that a great deal of women who have breast augmentation continue to be thrilled with their results for many, many years.

That said, even if you’re still 100% happy with your look years after your breast augmentation surgery, it’s still a good idea to visit your plastic surgeon for a checkup from time to time, particularly if you are getting close to hitting your 10-year breast implant anniversary.

Here’s why:

The Warranty on Your Breast Implants Probably Expires After 10 Years

Today, all the major manufacturers of FDA-approved breast implants offer lifetime warranties on their products and will give you new implants for free if you experience a rupture. However, these warranties typically only cover revision or replacement costs associated with complications such as capsular contracture, double capsule, or late-forming seromas for three to ten years after surgery. Even if you haven’t noticed anything wrong with your implants, it’s better to err on the side of caution and catch a potential problem before your warranty expires.

Even if Your Implants Haven’t Changed, Your Body Likely Has

We are still looking, but so far we haven’t found a magic potion to stop the aging process. While your implants might still be as good as new 10 years or longer after your augmentation, your body will keep changing as time goes by. If you’ve had a baby, lost or gained weight, or simply noticed the effects of gravity, you might feel it’s time to update your look to better suit your current lifestyle and aesthetic preferences. Your plastic surgeon can help you go over a range of options to achieve your goals or update your look, such as a breast lift, larger or smaller implants, or perhaps a new implant shape.

In Just 10 Years, Breast Implant Options Have Drastically Improved

If you’ve ever thought the shape or feel of your breast implants could be better and had your augmentation more than five years ago, it is worth learning about the superb new implant options that are now available. With the approval of 5th generation silicone gel implants, you can find just the right shape, size, profile, and firmness to suit your needs and goals. To check out the newest implants and see how they might improve your results, visit a plastic surgeon with experience in revision breast augmentation surgery. It’s often possible to use the same incision site to swap out implants, allowing for an updated look without additional scarring.

Nothing Lasts Forever

FDA-approved breast implants are safe and durable devices that can last several decades without issue. However, they are not considered lifetime devices. As with anything else in life, breast implants will eventually wear out. Exactly how long breast implants last depends on the product and the individual patient, but it’s a fact that 20-year-old implants are more likely to rupture than the latest generation of implants. While a ruptured saline implant will be obvious (you will notice the implant deflate as the saline leaks out and is safely absorbed by the body), silicone implants usually require an MRI to detect rupture. In fact, the FDA recommends that women with silicone implants get an MRI every three years to find any possible ruptures.

Other signs of implant aging, such as hardening that can occur with older generation silicone implants, happen more gradually. Seeing your plastic surgeon every few years can help catch such issues early, when a non-surgical or less invasive solution may be possible.

It goes without saying that if you are experiencing any problems with your breast implants or you are unhappy with your results, see a plastic surgeon ASAP, no matter how long it has been since your surgery. On the flip side, if you don’t have any issues, and you still love the way you look, there is likely no reason to replace your breast implants, no matter how long it has been since you got them.

Have more questions about when it might be time to check up on your breast implants? Here at the Parker Center in New Jersey, breast augmentation is one of our top procedures, and we’ll be happy to help answer your questions. Please feel free to contact us any time!

The post Breast Implant Maintenance: How Often Should You Visit Your Plastic Surgeon? appeared first on Parker Center for Plastic Surgery.

Need some ideas? Here’s our list of top gift ideas for plastic surgery patients:

Let Her Splurge on Her New Curves: Lingerie Store Gift Card
One of the most common questions we hear from our breast surgery patients is, “When can I go bra shopping?” Finding lingerie that fits and flatters is one thing that she’ll be looking forward to after surgery, and an all-expenses paid trip to the lingerie boutique is one of the best presents you can give a breast enhancement patient. For bonus points, choose a store that offers professional bra fittings.

Help Them Play Hooky from Housework: Personalized Housekeeping “Coupons”
When recovering from surgery, scrubbing dishes is one of the last things a patient should be doing. Create some colorful coupons your loved one can “redeem” for your help with their least favorite chores. Another option is to gift a few weeks of professional housekeeping services and spend that time catching up over coffee.

See Her Sparkle & Smile: Jewelry
Who doesn’t love a beautiful pair of earrings or stunning pendant? A classic gift for a loved one, jewelry can be extra meaningful for the facelift or eyelid surgery patient who feels confident drawing attention to her face or décolletage, perhaps for the first time in years.

Prep for Great R&R: A Cute Pair of Pajamas
Let your loved one come home to a cozy new pair of pajamas to slip into after his or her procedure. Our insider tip: choose a pair with a top that opens to the front so they’re easy to put on without straining incision sites.

Provide Some Much-Needed “Back-Up”: Telescopic Back Scratcher
You know how awkward it is to reach around and get that persistent itch on your back—imagine trying to do it fresh out of surgery! Certain procedures require a patient to limit reaching or bending during the initial recovery, making the awkward impossible. An extendable back scratcher, such as the Bear Claw, can save the day.

Make Recovery More Comfortable: Reading Pillow.
A sturdy reading pillow allows a patient to relax while lying down and elevating the head. Since most procedures require a patient to sleep on his or her back for a few weeks after surgery, having a three-sided pillow will make things much more comfortable.

…Or Make Recovery More Entertaining: Movies, Books, & Music.
Even just a few days of downtime can make a typically active patient a little stir crazy. Make mandatory couch-potato time more fun with a DVD box set or gift card to Amazon for some ebook downloads.

Help Scars Fade Faster: Scar Minimizing Cream
While a skilled plastic surgeon will take care to make scars as inconspicuous as possible, including a medical-grade scar minimizing cream can help scars fade even faster. One of our favorites is Obagi Dermatix Ultra, a silicone gel suitable for all skin types. To ensure you give a product that is safe for surgical scars, it’s best to talk to an experienced skincare professional before making your selection.

Plan a Big Night in the City: Theater Tickets
Gift a set of theater tickets for a show taking place a month or two after your friend’s procedure—this gives her time to recover and allows her results to settle. She’ll look forward to getting glammed up for a night on the town to show off her new look.

Send Them to the Spa: Parker Center Medi Spa Gift Card
You can never go wrong with a Parker Center Medi Spa Gift Card, which lets your friend choose how to be pampered after surgery. As an added bonus, facials, peels, and laser treatments can put the finishing touches on a youthful new look. As for a relaxing massage, no one needs an excuse for that!

We hope this list will be helpful as you support your loved one through their cosmetic surgery experience. If you need help deciding on a skincare product or have any questions about post-op gifts, give us a call! Our staff at the Parker Center will be happy to help you choose a present that will be safe and useful for the patient on your list.

The post Top 10 Post-Op Gifts for Plastic Surgery Patients appeared first on Parker Center for Plastic Surgery.

Tuberous breasts (also known as tubular breasts) or parenchymal maldistribution, is a deformity caused by constricted fibrous bands within the breast tissue. This condition is characterized by a high inframammary fold under the breast, a narrow base of the breast, large areolas, and a tubular breast shape. The result is breasts shaped like the famous cartoon dog’s nose, hence the popular term for the condition: “snoopy breasts.” Tubular breasts are also more likely to be asymmetrical, adding to the image issues for women with this condition.

What are my options?

If you are suffering from this issue, you’re not alone and the good news is it’s correctable. While very little can be done to change tuberous breasts without surgery, an experienced plastic surgeon can sculpt your breasts back into a more normal shape.

If the idea of seeing a doctor about your breasts has held you back from getting help, you needn’t be embarrassed: tuberous breasts are not just small breasts, and seeking correction is not a sign of vanity.

“Patients are typically both physically and psychologically transformed after we correct their tuberous breasts,” comments Dr. Paul Parker, Medical Director of the Parker Center for Plastic Surgery in Paramus, New Jersey. “They love the appearance of their breasts in and out of clothing and feel sexier with an enhanced sense of self esteem and body image.”

There are a number of trusted procedures that have been known to produce great results:

Tissue Expansion

An experienced surgeon can release the fibrous material that is constricting the breast tissue to aid in expansion. For the right candidate, this procedure can allow the breast tissue to naturally expand and take on a fuller shape.

Breast Lift

As we all know, no set of breasts is the same—depending on your particular pair, a breast lift may be what is needed to create a better breast shape. By surgically removing excess skin and tightening and re-anchoring the breast, a breast lift can dramatically improve breast shape and profile.

Breast Augmentation

Breast implants are often a great option for filling out and enhancing breast shape, as well as diminishing the conical look of tubular breasts. Depending on your goals, a number of sizes, shapes, and materials are available to ensure your implants give you the look you want. Consulting with a board certified surgeon can help you determine which fit is the best for you.

Breast Lift and Breast Augmentation

Depending on your individual needs, a breast lift combined with breast augmentation may be the strongest option for complete correction of tuberous breasts. By lifting the breast and adding shape and volume to improve breast symmetry, you can achieve a fuller, more natural look.

“When consulting with patients with tuberous breasts, we discuss all of these options. We also review before and after pictures of other similar patients on whom we’ve operated and helped,” says Dr. Parker. “Finally, we utilize 3 dimensional computer imaging to give patients a realistic idea of how they should look after surgery.”

Remember that tuberous breasts are physically different from typical breasts, so you’ll need to find a plastic surgeon who is very experienced in treating the condition and then maintain an open dialogue with them throughout the process. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Parker today, and find out more about your options.

Dr. Paul Parker patient reviews

The post Goodbye Snoopy: Options for Improving the Shape of Tuberous Breasts appeared first on Parker Center for Plastic Surgery.