Breast Implant Revision | We'll Help You Get the Look You Want

If you’ve noticed a change in the size or shape of your breasts, especially after pregnancy or nursing, you may be a candidate for breast augmentation. Breasts can also lose fullness and volume over the years as part of the normal aging process. Some women pursue breast augmentation to improve asymmetry in their breasts. The best candidates for breast enlargement should be in good health physically and mentally, and should have realistic expectations about their likely results.

Choosing the right breast implant size is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during your breast augmentation, and it’s one of the hardest decisions as well. During your consultation, Dr. Ditesheim will explain more about how to pick the perfect breast implants to meet your individual appearance goals taking into account your natural anatomy and existing breast measurements. You’ll also get to try on implants right in our office so you can see how different sizes, shapes and profiles will look on your body.

Dr. Ditesheim has performed hundreds of breast augmentations using both saline and silicone breast implants, either of which can deliver beautiful, natural-looking results in the right candidates. Together, you and Dr. Ditesheim will go over the details of each implant type in order to determine if there’s one that might better meet your goals for breast augmentation surgery. Saline implants are less expensive than silicone, and are FDA-approved for cosmetic use in women 18 and older. Since the implants are inserted empty and filled after placement, women who opt for saline implants typically have smaller scars. Filling after placement also allows for more precisely symmetrical results, particularly in women with significant asymmetry prior to surgery. Although saline implants can sometimes show visible surface rippling or wrinkles, they remain a cost-effective choice that can deliver beautiful results in the right candidate. Silicone implants are FDA-approved for cosmetic use in women 22 and older, and are currently the more popular choice for breast augmentation among women in Charlotte. Filled with a thick silicone gel that has a jelly-like texture, silicone implants won’t wrinkle, and the contents are designed to stay in place even in the unlikely event of a breach in the outer implant shell. Gummy bear implants offer a third choice for women considering breast augmentation. Another type of silicone implant, the form-stable silicone gel in gummy bear implants is firm yet soft, much like the gummy candies they’re nicknamed after. Unlike saline or silicone gel implants, gummy bear implants have a teardrop shape that mimics the anatomical curves of the natural breast. There really isn’t one type of implant that’s considered “best,” only the implant that’s best for your body.

Implants can restore volume to breasts that look deflated for a fuller look, but won’t actually change the placement of your breasts. For women with significant drooping in the breasts, nipples that point downward or an elongated breast shape, Dr. Ditesheim may recommend combining a breast lift with your augmentation. A breast lift raises and reshapes your natural breast tissue for a perkier look and firmer texture, while implants can increase your cup size.

Between the superior quality of today’s breast implants and the advances in modern-day surgical technique, there’s never been a better time to enjoy breast augmentation results that look and feel more natural than ever before. Dr. Ditesheim is a skilled breast augmentation specialist who can help you feel more proportionately balanced, restore fullness to your figure following weight fluctuations or pregnancy and improve symmetry between breasts.

Any surgery leaves scars behind, and that includes breast augmentation. However, Dr. Ditesheim offers three options for discreet incision placement to ensure results look as scar-free as possible: A periareolar incision follows the curve of the nipple and areola, where it can be camouflaged by the darker pigmentation of the skin after healing. An inframammary incision is hidden in the natural crease under the breast, so your natural contours should provide excellent coverage. The transaxillary incision is placed in the armpit for breast augmentation that leaves the surface of the breast completely free of incisions.

You’ll notice a difference in your figure immediately after surgery, although some amount of post-operative swelling may disguise your final results at first. Most women can return to work within a week or less, with more vigorous activities following after a few more weeks. As recovery progresses and swelling dissipates, your implants should settle into their final placement by about 1 to 3 months after surgery.

Prices for breast augmentation depend on many factors. You’ll receive an exact fee quote at your consultation. Fees include breast implants, surgical care, the facility and anesthesia provided by an MD anesthesiologist. Financing is available, and we’ll go over your options at your personal consultation.

Although it varies by manufacturer, most breast implants come with warranties for replacement in cases of complications that require the implants to be removed

Capsular contracture develops gradually and can cause the breast to feel stiff, change shape, and become painful over time. Dr. Ditesheim can confirm the diagnosis during an appointment.

Depending on the type and extent of breast asymmetry, augmentation may or may not be the best solution to achieve equal breast size and shape. Other procedures that may be beneficial include breast reduction and breast lift.

If you have trouble finding bras that fit well, or notice that some clothes just don’t quite hang right, you may have asymmetrical breasts that can be corrected with a cosmetic procedure.

Recovery and downtime will depend on your specific breast asymmetry procedure, but typically patients of breast augmentation or breast lift need to wait one to two weeks before resuming normal activities.

If you’re happy with the size of your breasts but want them to appear perkier and more youthful, a breast lift is probably the right path. For both increased volume and a more youthful appearance, a breast lift plus augmentation yields excellent results.

Although it’s not unusual to have decreased sensation on the breasts and nipples immediately following surgery, this condition is temporary and feeling will gradually return to normal over time.

In some cases, simply increasing the size of the breasts through augmentation can lead to breasts that sag. To prevent this, implants can be combined with a breast lift for better results.

The best candidates for breast lift surgery are women who are in good overall physical and mental health and have concerns about the degree of sagging in their breasts. Sagging or ptosis, is common among women as they age, undergo weight fluctuations or have gone through pregnancy. Women with moderate to large breasts are especially prone to sagging, although women with small breasts can also benefit from a breast lift. The best breast lift results are seen in women with downward pointing nipples, excess breast skin or a deflated breast appearance.

Yes. Because a breast lift involves lifting and reshaping breast tissue before tightening the breast skin, the procedure usually also requires relocating the nipples to a naturally central placement. For many women, this is an added benefit of the procedure, because sagging can cause the breast skin to stretch out, often resulting in nipples that are off-center or lower than they should be. In addition, your areolas can be resized if they have become larger than you would like as a result of sagging.

Keep in mind that a breast lift focuses on breast shape rather than breast size. While a breast lift won’t make your breasts any larger, most women feel that their new shape after a breast life gives them a more youthful figure with a perkier bust line. Depending on your goals, a breast lift might be enough to enhance your breasts. For others, ideal results can be created through a combination of a breast lift and implants.

The common approach to take for breast lift surgery is to place the incisions around the areola, extending downward to the inframammary fold, the natural crease below the breasts. This is often called a ‘keyhole’ incision, and allows Dr. Ditesheim to reshape the breast tissue and tighten the skin for the best breast lift results. While some breast lift patients worry about the appearance of scars prior to their surgery, after their breast lift, most patients are so happy with their results that the scars seem well worth it. In addition, the scars from breast lift surgery tend to fade quite a bit within the first couple of years after surgery, and for many, eventually heal to a point that they are hardly noticeable.

Depending on your exact needs, it’s quite possible that a breast lift can help you achieve greater breast symmetry. If you have one breast that is larger than the other, the smaller breast can be augmented or the larger breast reduced. These procedures can be combined with a lift on one or both breasts to create the most natural appearance. The best way to determine your options for asymmetrical breasts is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Ditesheim.

You should be able to notice some difference in your breast shape and position immediately after surgery. Initially, your end results will be obscured by swelling or bruising as your body heals from surgery. While most breast lift patients can return to work after only a few days of downtime, your final results will slowly develop over the next several weeks and months as the swelling dissipates and your breasts settle into their new position. At about 6 months following surgery, you should have a good idea of the end results of your breast lift.

Most patients experience a permanent solution after breast reduction, although changes such as weight gain and pregnancy can cause breast tissue to grow back.

If you experience back pain, shoulder pain, grooves from wearing a bra, or simply want a more manageable chest size, you will likely benefit from a breast reduction.

Yes, you gain weight proportionally throughout your body, including the breasts, although the size increase may not be noticeable.

If you want smaller breasts for either cosmetic or for health reasons, you are likely a candidate for breast reduction. Women with large breasts may have chronic back or shoulder pain, skin irritation, or posture problems. Large breasts can also create difficulty finding clothes that fit or cause feelings of self-consciousness and unwanted attention. Additionally, some women feel that a smaller breast size would simply better complement their figure. The best candidates for breast reduction should be in good overall physical and mental health and have realistic expectations about their results.

Choosing the right breast size for you is an important and personal decision that depends partially on your reason for wanting breast reduction. If you suffer from physical discomfort connected with large breasts, Dr. Ditesheim can help you determine the right amount of breast tissue to remove in order to alleviate excessive weight carried on your chest. However, if you plan to request insurance coverage for your breast, your provider likely has stipulations regarding a minimum amount of breast tissue to remove. If you are undergoing the procedure for cosmetic purposes, your new breast size is entirely up to you, although Dr. Ditesheim can help you determine an appropriate size based on your anatomy.

During breast reduction surgery, the nipples are usually shifted to a naturally central location on the breast. Because large breasts often experience some degree of sagging, or ptosis, the areolas can become enlarged. If this is the case, the areolas can be resized as part of your breast reduction as well.

Often, breast reduction improves texture of the breasts. This is because breast reduction surgery is not only about making breasts smaller. The procedure also reshapes the remaining breast tissue before pulling the breast skin taut over the new shape, much like a breast lift. This typically results in breasts that are not only lighter and more proportionate, but that also have a firmer feel.

Breast reduction is designed to create long lasting results, and most women only undergo the procedure once in their lives. However, your breast size and shape will still change in response to age and lifestyle factors. For example, if you become pregnant or gain weight, your breasts may become larger as a result.

As with any surgery, some amount of scarring from breast reduction is unavoidable. However, Dr. Ditesheim uses a “short scar technique” during breast reduction to minimize the appearance of scarring. The short scar technique uses what is known as a “lollipop” incision. One incision traces around the areola (where it can be more easily hidden by the darker skin), while another incision extends vertically from the areola to the inframammary fold. The result is discreet scarring that is easily covered by bathing suits or lingerie.

The change in your body shape after breast reduction surgery should be immediate, as should an improvement in back and shoulder pain. However, your breasts will initially experience some degree of swelling, preventing you from seeing the final results right away. Most women return to work within a week after surgery, while your new breast profile should gradually develop over the following few months.

The best candidates for breast implant revision have already undergone breast augmentation but may not feel that their results matched their expectations. This can happen if implants shift out of position, or if one implant leaks or ruptures. Breast implant revision can also be performed to correct capsular contracture, the presence of excess scar tissue around the breast implants. Some women may pursue implant revision surgery because they change their mind about the implant size or type they currently have. Revision surgery can also be performed to improve age-related or pregnancy-related changes in augmented breasts. The best candidates for a breast revision are women who are in good physical and mental health and have realistic expectations about the results they can hope to see after a revision procedure.

Breast asymmetry can occur in women that receive breast implants, sometimes as the result of poor surgical technique but often simply due to a difference in the way implants settled after surgery. Existing asymmetry that was present before getting breast implants may also be exaggerated afterward if the proper steps were not taken during augmentation. Breast implant revision can remove one or both implants, sometimes in combination with a breast lift, to restore a natural balance to your figure.

The hardening of the scar tissue that surrounds the implants is known as capsular contracture, and is one of the main reasons women schedule revision surgery. There are four different grades of capsular contracture, and breasts that become hard or painful to the touch are symptomatic of the most serious grade. If you notice these symptoms in your own breasts, it’s likely that scar tissue needs to be removed and your implants should be replaced.

Breast implants don’t generally need to be replaced unless there’s a specific reason to do so, such as a rupture or the formation of capsular contracture. Regular mammograms should be scheduled to determine that the implant shell remains stable, but unless you’ve noticed a change in appearance or physical discomfort associated with your implants, you should be fine to continue using them. Unless, of course, you’d prefer to move to a larger or smaller implant size for cosmetic reasons, in which case revision surgery can help.

Worrying that augmentation revision still might not help you meet your goals is completely understandable. Breast implant revision can correct many cosmetic issues related to your breast augmentation like size or symmetry, and even some medical concerns like capsular contracture. However, the goal of any cosmetic procedure is improvement rather than perfection, and that holds true for implant revision too. Having realistic expectations is an important part of feeling happy with your results, so it’s important to discuss your goals with your plastic surgeon to find out what level of improvement you can hope to achieve with breast implant revision.

While non-reconstructive breast augmentation is considered cosmetic and therefore elective, breast implant revision is unique in that it is sometimes covered by health insurance providers if done for medical reasons. These can include capsular contracture, breast implant rupture or contour irregularities that may occur after surgery. However, the coverage itself will vary greatly from provider to provider, so you’ll need to check the specifics of your policy ahead of time. The Ditesheim Cosmetic Surgery team will work with you to provide any documentation you need for your insurance company.

Like your initial breast augmentation, seeing the final results from your breast implant revision will take some time. Your new look may be disguised by swelling and bruising at first, although many woman say recovery from revision surgery is faster and easier than their first breast augmentation. You should see an improvement in your appearance fairly soon after surgery, with your final results developing over the next few months.

Gynecomastia is usually characterized by excess localized fat, overgrowth of male breast tissue under the nipple, or skin excesss (usually from significant weight loss). One or both sides of the chest can be affected.

For patients whose gynecomastia is mostly excess fatty tissue, Aquashape (water-assisted liposuction) or Vaser (ultrasound-assisted liposuction) can be used to remove the excess fat.

Breast tissue under the nipple can be made of fatty, fibrous (firmer), or glandular (hard) tissue. It is hard to predict who will have which type of breast tissue. Gynecomastia surgery with liposuction is very efficient in removing fatty tissue under the nipple and over the chest wall. If the breast tissue is too tough, glandular tissue can be removed with an intra-areolar incision.

Ideal candidates for a tummy tuck have undergone significant weight loss or have been pregnant. If you’re bothered by loose, excess abdominal skin, lingering fatty deposits around the abdomen or separated abdominal muscles, you may be a good candidate for abdominoplasty. Women frequently pursue tummy tuck surgery after they have completed their families, while both men and women can be excellent candidates if they have lost any amount of weight that leaves them with baggy abdominal contours. Candidates should reach their goal weight prior to surgery, be in good physical and mental health and have realistic expectations about their results.

Either a full or mini tummy tuck can deliver beautiful results in the right candidate. At your consultation, Dr. Ditesheim can explain in detail the difference between the two tummy tuck types and evaluate your current skin laxity, abdominal contours and the state of your abdominal muscles to help determine which tummy tuck is right for you. A mini tummy tuck focuses on excess skin and fatty tissue below the belly button. While keeping the belly button intact, Dr. Ditesheim removes small amounts of fatty tissue through a small incision just above the pubic mound. He can also tone the lower abdominal muscles before pulling the skin over your new shape and trimming away any extra. A mini tummy tuck is best for patients with little to no excess skin or fatty tissue in the upper abdominal region and minimal abdominal separation. A full tummy tuck is a more comprehensive procedure that addresses skin and muscle laxity throughout the abdomen. Through a slightly longer incision, Dr. Ditesheim can remove excess tissue throughout the stomach and repair the upper and lower abdominals. He will then pull the stomach skin tight, excise any extra and reinsert the belly button in a natural position. A full tummy tuck is common for patients who have undergone dramatic weight loss, multiple pregnancies or have contouring concerns throughout their midsection.

While Dr. Ditesheim removes small amounts of fatty tissue during a tummy tuck, the procedure’s ability to reduce pockets of subcutaneous fat is limited. For patients with stubborn fatty deposits in and around the abdomen, Dr. Ditesheim can use AquaShape water-assisted liposuction to remove fat cells in problem areas. While not every patient will require liposuction to reach their goals, this combined technique can result in greater contouring possibilities than either procedure alone.

A tummy tuck is intended to create long-lasting results. However, it’s important that patients understand that their bodies will continue to respond to lifestyle changes, diet, age, and hormones. Post-weight loss patients are encouraged to maintain a healthy lifestyle in order to keep their new contours. Additionally, women who plan on becoming pregnant in the future are often recommended to wait until they have completed their families before getting a tummy tuck. While abdominoplasty won’t affect a woman’s ability to carry a child to term, future pregnancies may reverse some of the contouring accomplished in a tummy tuck.

As with any surgery, the scars from a tummy tuck are permanent. However, Dr. Ditesheim takes special care to place the incisions as discreetly as possible. The scar from a tummy tuck should fall below the bikini line so as to be well hidden. With proper care, many patients find that their scars fade dramatically within the first one to two years following surgery.

You should notice a difference in your figure immediately after surgery, although your results will initially be obscured by any swelling or bruising you experience as you recover. By the middle of the second week, most patients can return to most of their daily activities, easing into more vigorous exercises over the next several weeks. You should have a good idea of your final results within 4 to 6 weeks after your tummy tuck.

Dr. Ditesheim performs liposuction procedures both using local and general anesthesia, depending on the intensity of the procedure and the number of incisions being made.

Visceral fat are deposits of fat deep in the body, covering internal organs. These cannot be removed with liposuction.

If you have body fat that won’t go away no matter what you eat or do, liposuction can be an effective way to permanently remove it.

Because the ultrasound waves emitted by the VaserLipo device aid in breaking down fat cells and promoting skin retraction, it produces more even results with less downtime compared to traditional liposuction.

Proven to be safe around muscle groups, VaserLipo can precisely target fat in the love handles, thighs, calves, buttocks, back, and chest. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Ditesheim to learn if your specific problem area can be treated by this highly effective procedure

Contrary to popular belief, patients with a BMI that labels them as overweight or obese can absolutely be a good candidate for VaserLipo.

While a traditional tummy tuck can remove excess skin and fat from the abdominal area, the High Definition liposuction 360 technique achieves artistic body contouring by treating the entire circumference of a patient, including the back and sides.

You will see preliminary results from any liposuction procedure immediately, although your body contour will continue to improve in appearance as you heal and any bruising and swelling go down.

Liposuction and the High Definition 360 procedure are not weight-loss surgeries, but rather body contouring procedures. Although some fat can be removed, it is more about achieving the shape you want rather than helping you lose a lot of weight.

AquaShape is a water-assisted liposuction device that simultaneously removes fat through liposuction and processes it to be re-injected for fat augmentation elsewhere on the body. In this sense, it is performing two jobs at once, which traditional liposuction does not do.

For smaller areas, returning to work in one to three days is expected. When more fat is removed, five to seven days may be needed to return to work.

Yes. Having been proven safe and effective in numerous clinical studies, AquaShape is a gentle and minimally invasive way to contour the body for long-lasting results.

Dr. Ditesheim was looking for a technology that was different from all other liposuction; one that would deliver sculpted results and a faster recovery. AquaShape also provides the option to have a liposuction procedure without general anesthesia. Many physicians perform liposuction, some are plastic surgeons, others are not. Many do not think of fat removal as a real procedure, and they promote unsafe techniques at discount prices. Poorly executed, liposuction can be dangerous and the results disfiguring. AquaShape liposuction is a sculpting tool that creates more feminine curves, with minimal scaring and an easier recovery.

Dr. Ditesheim has one of the largest experiences with AquaShape, with 642 procedures in the last seven years. The majority were women (68%) ranging in age from 19 to 73.

For most women, the AquaShape investment starts at $4,500. The cost depends on your areas of frustration and your body. For example, AquaShape for the lower tummy without general anesthesia will start at $4,500 for a 1-hour procedure.

Women who are healthy, exercise and take care of their bodies but have extra fat in the tummy, thighs, hips, back-bra roll or arms are excellent candidates for AquaShape.

Using a focused water jet, unwanted fat is separated and then permanently removed from the body through a long hollow tube (cannula). There are usually two to five shallow skin incisions and there is minimal to no collateral damage to the nerves and blood vessels.

AquaShape is unique in using water pressure to free up and remove fat. This is a gentler approach to permanent fat removal. Traditional liposuction often uses large, sharp destructive cannulas to remove the fat. Other popular liposuction techniques use heat or supplemental energy to destroy fat before removal which creates more bruising and swelling.

Non-surgical approaches include laser (SculpSure™), chemical injection (Kybella™) or freezing (Coolsculpting). These methods destroy very small amounts of fat but create significant bruising, swelling and possible permanent nerve injury. Non-surgical fat treatments do not produce the same sculpted results as AquaShape.

Because AquaShape is a gentler technique, it is reasonable to have the procedure while awake. For women who had AquaShape liposuction as the sole procedure, 40% were performed while the women were awake (without general anesthesia). This allows patients to return to work the same or next day or after the weekend.

The mommy makeover is a combination of procedures designed to help rejuvenate your body in a way that brings out the best in your figure. These procedures most often include breast enhancement and body contouring. However, each woman’s concerns are different, so Dr. Ditesheim’s primary focus is on working with you to find the best approach to help meet your personal goals.

There are many factors that go into determining whether you are a good candidate for a mommy makeover. Typically women who have decided not to have more children will be better candidates, as results will likely be maintained longer without another pregnancy. However, due to the customizable nature of the mommy makeover, almost any woman who feels uncomfortable with the shape of her body after pregnancy may be a good candidate, as long as she’s in good physical and mental health. It’s a good idea to wait at least 6 months since you’ve had your baby or after weaning, and to have reached and maintained your pre-pregnancy weight for several months before getting a mommy makeover.

The procedures that will be performed in your mommy makeover will depend on your personal needs and goals. Breast augmentation can restore volume to deflated breasts, or boost your cup size for a curvier look. A breast lift may be best for those women whose breasts sit low or have taken on a saggy, droopy appearance. In some cases, a breast lift can be combined with implants for breasts that are higher, firmer and shapelier. A tummy tuck repairs separated abdominal muscles and removes stretched-out belly skin for a slimmer midsection. Liposuction can fine-tune specific problem spots like the muffin top, love handles, and inner or outer thighs. Nonsurgical treatments like chemical peels and facials or BOTOX® can help your complexion look younger and more refreshed. Dr. Ditesheim will talk with you about your appearance concerns to better understand which cosmetic treatments should give you the best possible results.

While a mommy makeover may sound intimidating due to the number of procedures that may be performed at once, recovery time is often about the same as it would be for a single procedure. The length of the surgery will depend on which procedures you decide to have, but often takes between 2 to 5 hours. Mommy makeovers are typically performed on an outpatient basis, so you should be able to return home shortly after the surgery is done.

Dr. Ditesheim will give you detailed post-op instructions to help ensure that your recovery goes as smoothly as possible. You may have a hard time moving around comfortably immediately after your mommy makeover, but should be able to resume your normal activities by a few weeks later. Results vary depending on the specific procedures performed, but overall you should enjoy a rejuvenated appearance with improvements that specifically addressed your post-pregnancy concerns.

Men who are healthy, who exercise and take care of their body but have extra fat in the love handles, tummy, chest ( male breasts) or neck are excellent candidates for Aquashape.

Dr. Ditesheim was looking for a technology that was different from all other liposuction; one that would deliver sculpted results and a better recovery. Aquashape also provided the option to have a liposuction procedure without general anesthesia. Many physicians perform liposuction, some are plastic surgeon, others are not. Many do not think of fat removal as a “real procedure”. They promote unsafe techniques at discount prices. Poorly executed, liposuction can be dangerous and results disfiguring. Aquashape Liposuction at its best is a sculpting tool to create a more muscular, defined body, with minimal scar and an easier recovery.

Dr. Ditesheim is one of the most versed with Aquashape, with 642 procedures in the last 7 years. Men comprised 201 procedures for liposculpting of the chest and torso. After the procedure, 72% of the male patients were off narcotic pain medicine within 3 days.

Using a focused water jet, unwanted fat is separated and then permanently removed from the body through a long hollow tube (cannula). There are usually 2 to 5 small skin incisions (5mm). There is minimal to no collateral damage to normal structures (nerves and blood vessels).

Aquashape is unique in using water pressure to free up and remove fat. It is a gentler approach to permanent fat removal. Traditional liposuction often uses large, sharp destructive cannulas to break up and remove the fat. Other popular liposuction techniques (Smart-Lipo™, Power Lipo™, Tickle Lipo™, Laser lipo) use heat or supplemental energy to destroy fat before removal. These techniques can create more damage to surrounding normal structures. More collateral damage is the reason for more bruising and swelling. For most Aquashape patients, there is minimal to no bruising 24 hours after the procedure.

“Non-surgical” approaches include laser (SculpSure™), chemical injection (Kybella™) or freezing (Coolsculpting™). These methods destroy very small amounts of fat but create significant bruising, swelling and possible permanent nerve injury. Non-surgical fat treatments do not produce the same results as Aquashape. It is not possible for these “non-surgical” methods to be selective in superficial or deep fat removal or to sculpt the body.

Because Aquashape is a gentler technique, it is reasonable to have the procedure awake. For the chest, this has proven to be very successful, with 42% of the procedures performed with men awake. This allows return to work the same or next day or after the weekend. General anesthesia is always an option if you prefer to be asleep and pain free or for longer procedures.

For chest, love handles and lower tummy return to work in 1-3 days is expected. For larger men or when more fat is removed 5-7 days may be needed to return to work. Minimal bruising is anticipated. Some swelling is normal and will gradually resolve over the first 2-3 months. Each person’s body is different but being in good physical condition can minimize recovery.

For most men, the Aquashape investment will range from $5000 to $15,000. The cost depends on your areas of frustration and your body. For example, Aquashape for the lower tummy awake will start at $5000 ( procedure: 1 hour); larger men (>240lb) who want torso shaping (abdomen and hips) the procedure starts at $8500 ( procedure: 2 hours). For chest, abdomen and hips, most men will spend $10,000 to $14,500 ( procedure: 3 hours). For High-definition Liposuction ( abdominal etching and lipo-sculpting of chest and torso front and back) the procedure is longer, more complex and costs will be slightly higher. The Aquashape procedure for male breasts, under local anesthesia: $6800. These fees include all pre and post-operative care and are designed to provide realistic estimates of the Aquashape procedures. Each person’s surgical plan is individualized and costs determined at the consultation. Financing with multiple third-party vendors is available. Because nothing is more important than your safety, all AquaShape™ procedures are performed in our private AAAASF accredited operating suite. That means that the nurse that you talk to at the consultation will be at your side at each step of your experience. You will be seen the day after surgery and then at intervals during the first year to assure you have the best experience.

The specific region where your problem areas lie, like the forehead, nose, or neck, will largely determine whether you need a procedure like a brow lift, rhinoplasty, or neck lift. A consultation with Dr. Ditesheim is the best way to know which procedure or procedures are right for you.

In many cases, no. You can combine different facial surgeries to achieve multiple benefits in a single surgical session, saving recovery time and money on separate procedures. Popular combination surgeries include a facelift and brow lift.

Because these surgeries accomplish different goals, which is better for your specific problem areas and needs will vary by individual. For example, if you have excess, sagging skin, a facelift will likely yield better results.

Yes. Using water-assisted liposuction, Dr. Ditesheim can take fat from elsewhere on your body to fill in hollow areas on your face for a permanent solution that doesn’t involve dermal fillers.

Beyond simply adding volume to hollowed or gaunt-appearing areas, facial fat transfer can fill out deep folds, augment the lips, or even simply balance uneven features.

Absolutely! Because fat transfer procedures utilize your own fatty tissue, there is no risk of an allergic reaction or other negative side effects. Plus, the results of this procedure are much longer-lasting than dermal fillers.

Patients whose faces show noticeable signs of aging may be good candidates for a facelift. Common issues that are correctable with a facelift include drooping skin, deep lines on the face and sagging skin near the chin, jowls and below the neck. The best facelift candidates should be old enough to see signs of aging, but still young enough to enjoy the natural skin elasticity necessary for the best results. If you notice signs of aging through the upper face, Dr. Ditesheim may suggest including eyelid surgery for even better results. Smaller lines and wrinkles may be improved with nonsurgical treatments such as BOTOX® Cosmetic, but a consultation will be needed to decide which option will work best for you.

Facelift candidates aren’t determined based on a particular chronological age, but rather by how the aging process has affected the individual. If you have sagging jowls, a loss of definition between your jaw and neckline or saggy “turkey neck,” you could be a good facelift candidate whether you’re 40 or 70. Most people who schedule facelifts are around age 60, but an in-person consultation is always best way to decide if a facelift is right for you.

Dr. Ditesheim prides himself on the care and attention to detail he puts into each and every surgery. A facelift should never appear “pulled” or tight, and instead should simply restore a youthful and refreshed appearance to your natural features. It’s important to choose a highly experienced, board certified plastic surgeon who performs facelifts regularly in order to see the best possible outcome from your procedure.

Using med spa treatments like BOTOX® or injectable fillers can be a great option for patients who want to update their look without committing to surgery. However, more advanced signs of aging, like sagging skin or hanging jowls, can only be improved with a facelift. Sometimes, Dr. Ditesheim may recommend a combination approach of both surgical and nonsurgical treatments to ensure that all your concerns are addressed.

You should see a difference in your appearance almost right away after your facelift, though your final results will take some time to fully develop. You’ll need to wear bandages for several days after your procedure. Initial swelling and bruising are common, but should subside within a few weeks. Lingering mild swelling that’s noticeable only to you may last for several months longer.

Facelift surgery is more individualized than many other plastic surgery procedures, and costs depend on the extent of surgery needed to achieve your goals. Typically, the total costs will include professional anesthesia care (MD), credentialed, accredited surgical facility (OR and Recovery) and surgical fees (all professional care) for a facelift.

The most common candidates for an eyelid lift, or blepharoplasty, are men or women who notice signs of aging in their face that cause their upper eyelids to droop or under-eye bags to form. Some candidates for eyelid surgery simply have naturally drooping eyelids that can cause them to look permanently tired or even limit their scope of vision. Ideal candidates for blepharoplasty are nonsmokers who are in good physical and mental health and have realistic expectations about their results.

While some blepharoplasty patients choose to combine upper and lower eyelid surgery for a more comprehensive approach to facial rejuvenation, others may only require one or the other to meet their cosmetic goals. Upper and lower eyelid surgery differ in the area of focus and the techniques used: Upper eyelid surgery lifts the upper eyelids to create a more alert and refreshed appearance. This is done by removing excess skin and fatty tissue, gently tightening the small muscles in the upper eye area, and finally suturing the skin and musculature into place. Lower eyelid surgery focuses primarily on resolving the appearance of under-eye bags. Fatty tissue under the eyes can be reallocated or removed to form a smoother under-eye appearance and the muscles can be tightened into a more youthful position before tightening the lower eyelid skin and removing any excess.

Because the focus of blepharoplasty is primarily on excess eyelid skin, fatty tissue and skin position, eyelid surgery does not smooth out the small horizontal wrinkles that can form at the outer edges of the eyes, known as crow’s feet. Crow’s feet form as a result of repeated muscle movements, often from smiling, laughing or squinting. Many blepharoplasty patients choose to combine eyelid surgery with BOTOX® Cosmetic in order to address crow’s feet as well as sagging eyelids.

The results of eyelid surgery, whether focused on the upper or lower eyelids, are designed to be long-lasting. However, it’s important to remember that the elasticity of your skin and the quality of your underlying facial muscles will continue to change in response to age and environmental factors. Eyelid surgery patients are recommended to protect the skin surrounding their eyes with regular moisturizing and sun protection to maintain their results as well as possible.

Because eyelid surgery only requires small incisions in naturally well-hidden areas, the scars from blepharoplasty should be barely noticeable after healing. In the case of upper eyelid surgery, the incisions are placed within the natural crease of the eyelids. During lower eyelid surgery, the incisions are hidden just beneath the lower lash line. Patients may see some pinkness around the site of the incisions immediately following surgery, but this should fade quickly in the weeks and months after surgery.

You should notice a difference in the area surrounding your eyes immediately following your eyelid surgery, although post-surgical swelling and discoloration may initially obscure your final outcome. While many blepharoplasty patients return to work after 1 to 2 weeks, it may take several weeks for your swelling to subside completely. You should be able to see your final results from eyelid surgery in about 4 to 6 weeks following your surgery.

Whether you are unhappy with the proportion, angle, tip, or other specific features of your nose, or you have experienced changes due to injuries, nasal surgery can address what you wish to improve and give you a naturally beautiful and proportionate face.

Nose surgery is a highly individualized procedure; the exact cost can only be determined in consultation with Dr. Ditesheim. Typical costs include surgeon’s fees, anesthesiologist fees, and operating room costs. The total price will vary depending on the complexity of the procedure.

Yes, the surgical changes to the structure of your nose are permanent, but will take a long time to settle into the final result after rhinoplasty. If you are unhappy with the results of a rhinoplasty, Dr. Ditesheim can perform revision rhinoplasty to get the look you want.

BOTOX® can be ideal for treating dynamic wrinkles, which are most commonly seen around the mouth, corners of the eyes and forehead. These form from repeated muscle movements combined with the natural aging process, and are exacerbated by factors like sun exposure, smoking and genetic tendencies. If you’ve noticed deepening frown lines or crow’s feet and want to turn back the clock a few years, you may be a good candidate for BOTOX®.

Many of the wrinkles that we see in our natural features are caused by the muscles in our face—furrowing our brow, smiling, squinting our eyes and so on. These facial muscles form creases in our skin as we flex them with our facial expressions, creating defined lines over time. BOTOX® is a chemical injection that works by relaxing the facial muscles that create these wrinkles. When the facial muscles responsible for wrinkling are temporarily paralyzed, the wrinkles diminish or can disappear completely.

BOTOX® injections are a temporary cosmetic treatment. While the individual time of effect will vary for each patient, most men and women see results that last from 3 to 4 months. Results typically become visible 24 to 48 hours after your procedure. The treatment itself is quick, taking only about 15 to 30 minutes.

When properly administered by a skilled injector, BOTOX® injections should leave you looking naturally refreshed. Although BOTOX® relaxes the muscles of your face to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, your facial expressions shouldn’t be visibly limited.

Laugh lines, technically known as the nasolabial folds, are typically caused by age-related loss of natural volume in the face rather than repeated facial expressions. Although BOTOX® won’t restore lost volume, injectable fillers or facial fat grafting may offer a solution. Like BOTOX®, these injectable treatments can be administered during a quick, in-office procedure with minimal downtime. During your initial consultation, you can talk about your cosmetic goals in more detail to determine which treatment options may be best for you.

One of the great things about BOTOX® is that it’s delivered via local injections directly into the treatment area. This means that you don’t have to worry about needing anesthesia or incisions, and you won’t see any visible scarring from your treatment.

Your BOTOX® session should likely only take 15 to 30 minutes. After treatment, most patients are comfortable returning to work, though some patients prefer to take 24 hours off to rest and recuperate. Your procedure shouldn’t need any external maintenance, though you may notice some tingling or slight discomfort as the injections act on your facial muscles. Results should be visible in just a day or two.

BOTOX® is frequently combined with dermal fillers to address multiple types of lines and wrinkles. Additionally, patients who schedule eyelid surgery may opt for BOTOX® after their recovery to smooth away crow’s feet that surgery didn’t address. BOTOX® can also be used to complement the results of a facelift to help you maintain a youthful look for even longer.

Although there are many options for FDA-approved facial fillers on the market, they are formulated slightly differently for injection into specific areas of the face. The best way to know if one brand or type of filler is right for you is to schedule a consultation with our injection experts.

Depending on your body’s processes and specific type of filler used, dermal fillers last around a year or longer.

Yes, although it can take a few weeks for fillers to settle within the tissue, meaning your ideal results may take time to achieve.

Because ZO Medical products are potent and designed to be professional-grade formulas, we urge patients to talk to our medical aestheticians before using any products at home for their safety and effective treatment.

If you pay close attention to the daily state of your skin, it’s possible to treat acne using topical products and a good skincare routine. For the most effective treatment, use high-quality acne products from ZO Medical.

While not technically necessary for your daily skincare routine, eye cream can help protect skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines when using high-quality products specifically designed for use around the eye area.

Yes, in the hands of a trained physician like Dr. Ditesheim, the Dermapen 3 MD is entirely safe. The device is designed with robust safety features to ensure patients are properly treated with microneedling.

When used to treat fine lines and wrinkles, microneedling has been proven to reduce the signs of aging over the course of several sessions.

Microneedling may not be right for everyone seeking facial rejuvenation. During a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Ditesheim, he can help identify which treatment(s) can effectively meet your unique skincare needs.

A chemical peel is an effective way to improve your skin tone and texture and create a more youthful, rejuvenated look.

After a chemical peel, you can expect the surface layer of skin to peel for about 2-3 days on average.

You will see results after one chemical peel, but most patients undergo a series of chemical peels to achieve their ideal goal results.

A facial will naturally restore the quality and the texture of skin, and a series of facials will keep the skin refreshed. The objective of this facial is to increase the cell turn over, leaving skin rejuvenated with a healthier layer. An active facial addresses the signs of aging spots, creates an even skin tone, gives the skin firmness, and increases hydration to help the skin better absorb products, giving the skin what it needs for a better complexion.

Yes, skin is like any other organ in your body, it needs to be paid attention to. And like everyone is different, all skin types are different with varying needs and sensitivity. The condition of your skin plays a large role in choosing the best facial option for you. Our practice has all the tools necessary to improve the skin and our esthetician will guide you towards the right treatment your skin needs to glow and be restored.

Facials are very comfortable and relaxing, and usually do not require any downtime. With that being said, medical spa products are very active and will be more affective. With the proper guidance of our experienced staff, you can achieve the desired results from our effective treatment options. We as a practice will deliver the right expectation and a pleasant experience for optimal results.

Acne can be treated with active ingredients and exfoliation to prevent dead cell build-up on the skins surface and inside the pores. The elimination of oils and dead cell into the pores will prevent the formation of blackheads and whiteheads. Our customized treatment will eliminate bacteria that can then grow within the pores. Our experts will create a customized regimen to treat your specific type of acne.

Acne is a very complex issue. To effectively treat acne, it must be targeted in many different ways to see results and control the condition. Our esthetician will provide you with a customized program, which will vary from person-to-person. On average, you can expect to schedule in-office acne treatments every 2-3 weeks to control and eliminate acne.

Acne treatment alone usually does not address acne scarring. To treat acne scars from previous acne, another service such as Icon Laser or microneedling can be paired with your acne treatment plan. These devices are very precise for treating scars but should only be used when you no longer have active acne.

Yes, because we will use some calming but powerful antioxidants that are essential building blocks to restore the skin. However, this facial is also used for patients who are super sensitive or have an irritation reaction caused by excess sun exposure, topical product irritation, or other factors. Our esthetician will customize for your specific needs to ensure your skin is repaired and protected.

Yes. We have many different techniques that our medical esthetician will customize for your specific needs. Our esthetician has many years of experience in treating skin post-op or after various procedures, so your skin will be in good hands regardless of the condition it is in.

Laser skin resurfacing typically produces results faster, but chemical peels can be more customizable depending on the patients’ needs. An aesthetician or plastic surgeon can recommend the best treatment option for you during a consultation.

Maintaining proper skin hydration after laser skin resurfacing will help you heal faster and increase your comfort throughout the recovery process.

After receiving laser treatments, you should avoid excess sun exposure, hair removal, exposing skin to hot water, or topical beauty products except as directed.

Clear + Brilliant gently resurfaces the skin to create a rejuvenated appearance. It is useful for skin concerns including enlarged pores, sun damage, or uneven tone and texture.

For most patients, Clear + Brilliant results last for several months after their treatment. Patients can receive follow-up treatments as often as every 3-4 weeks to maintain results.

Clear + Brilliant creates better skin-tightening results compared to microneedling for a majority of patients. The best treatment option for you depends on factors like your skin type. An aesthetician can recommend your best treatment plan.

What procedures does Crisalix provide images for?

Before-and-after photos are great ways to see real-world examples of Dr. Ditesheim’s work, but they aren’t images of your unique body. Crisalix uses photos of you to digitally create your own “before-and-after” with their unique technology.

When you schedule your consultation with Dr. Ditesheim, make sure to tell him that you’re interested in using Crisalix to help determine which surgery or surgical options are right for you, and he will help you use this technology during your appointment.