Blog Archives - Page 2 of 7 - Plastic Surgeon in Philadelphia

July 14, 2020September 29, 2020

Everything You’ve Been Wondering About the Tummy Tuck

When it comes to having a child or undergoing a major weight loss, it’s common to be left with excess sagging skin around the midsection. Whether you want to be able to show off your bod in a brand new bikini or just feel better about your reflection, the tummy tuck can come to your rescue. We answered a few of our patients’ most frequently asked questions about the tummy tuck, so you know exactly what you’re getting into before your consultation.

Can a tummy tuck correct my stretchmarks?

The answer to this question is both yes and no. Because the tummy tuck traditionally removes excess skin around the midsection below the belly button and above the pubic area, if you do have stretch marks in that region, they will be removed during your tummy tuck surgery. That being said, any stretch marks that you have that lie above the belly button or around the hips and thighs will not be removed during your tummy tuck procedure. For these stretch marks, we highly recommend considering laser resurfacing treatments.

Will a tummy tuck give me a flat stomach?

Yes, a tummy tuck will be able to get rid of that stretched skin around your midsection to give you the flat tummy you once had or worked hard to get. Not only does the skin around your midsection get tightened during your tummy tuck, but Dr. Pollard is able to tighten the muscles in your abdomen during surgery and perform gentle liposuction to remove unwanted fatty deposits in your treated areas. The combination of these three techniques provides a beautifully contoured and flat tummy.

Are tummy tucks safe?

Yes! A tummy tuck being done by a double board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Pollard, there are minimal risks involved. The most common side effects during your surgery and recovery period include swelling, tenderness and bruising around your treated areas. If you do have some concerns about the overall safety of your tummy tuck procedure, we encourage you to talk to Dr. Pollard about them during your one-on-one consultation. She’s there for you every step of the way to ensure you’re as comfortable and as confident as possible throughout your surgical journey.

Who is a good candidate for a tummy tuck?

Good candidates for a tummy tuck experience loose skin around their midsection and desire a more tightened and contoured appearance. Ideal candidates for a tummy tuck are done having children, are close to or at their ideal weight, and have realistic expectations of their tummy tuck results. If you believe you’re a good candidate for a tummy tuck, come in for a private consultation with Dr. Pollard.

What is the difference between a full tummy tuck and a mini tummy tuck?

While a full tummy tuck or traditional tummy tuck involves a long, thin incision being made from hip to hip just above the pubic area, a mini tummy tuck only requires a small, more subtle incision above the pubic area that is more easily concealable following surgery. A mini tummy tuck is only recommended to men and women who have trouble with loose skin below their belly button, as the belly button remains intact during this procedure.

We hope we were able to answer some of your most pressing questions about the tummy tuck. If you still want to learn more about the procedure, or believe you’re a good candidate for a tummy tuck, contact us to schedule your one-on-one consultation with Dr. Emily Pollard today. We are also offering virtual consultations, so you can get all of your questions answered in the comfort and safety of your very own home.

June 4, 2020May 4, 2020

3 Things That You Can Do During This Time to Prepare for Surgery

Social distancing may have you feeling like your cosmetic goals can never be achieved, but this is actually an ideal opportunity to prepare for surgery. You can focus on yourself, and take steps that will help your body heal faster. By following a few steps, your recovery may be minimized, and your post-surgical symptoms may be less significant. The body relies on oxygen, healthy blood flow, nutrients, and recovery each day to heal properly.

Stay Physically Active

Keeping your body in good shape during social distancing promotes faster healing. After any type of surgery, your body uses a few mechanisms to heal the wounds. Blood clotting is the one that we are most familiar with, yet this is only the beginning. Your body delivers nutrients and oxygen to the area through the blood vessels. Exercising and staying active ensures that your body has a healthy volume of oxygen, and you also strengthen your blood vessels and circulatory system.

Eat Well

The nutrients that your body needs during those periods of healing come from the foods that you eat. Eating lower quality foods not only starves your body of key nutrients, but also burdens the body with removing unhealthy and harmful substances from the body. As you prepare for your surgery, eat a variety of foods, and avoid processed foods. The challenges in finding groceries right now may tempt you to settle for lower quality foods, but you should remain diligent and mindful about what you put into your body. You want to come out of the current challenges healthier.

Get Enough Quality Rest

Sleep is intended to give our bodies time to recover, heal, and recuperate after the energy that is expended during the day. Your mind also needs time to process the massive amount of information that you internalize. Stressors are high right now, but you need to find ways to get high-quality rest every night, and even take short power naps during the day. We recommend that you set a time every night when you will shut of the news on television and social media and do something that feels normal, relaxing, and peaceful. This is different for each person, but it may be reading, music, crafts, or meditation. The goal is to do something that completely engages your mind. Do this activity for at least one hour before going to bed.

Schedule a Virtual Consultation

Dr. Pollard and the staff of Pollard Plastic Surgery look forward to working with you and helping you achieve your cosmetic goals. A virtual consultation is an excellent way to focus on the future and beyond the current public health crisis. Just like a face-to-face consultation, our virtual consultation is when you can learn about the procedure and other tips for how to prepare for your surgery during social distancing. We can also share our plans going forward with how we will serve our patients as the COVID-19 crisis evolves.

May 4, 2020May 4, 2020

Skincare During Quarantine

At Pollard Plastic Surgery, we are grateful for the opportunity to serve our patients, especially during the current public health environment and social distancing. You may be feeling a little lost or overwhelmed about how to take care of your skin during this time, but we are still here for you. There are several ways that you can take care of and even improve your skin health right now with dermHA® and Revision Skincare® products.

dermHA® Skincare Products

Dr. Pollard recommends dermHA® skincare products for a range of conditions and general skin health. The products contain hyaluronic acid to hydrate your skin and keep it resilient to environmental damage. Products are available for every skin tone and type, and you can find products for specific concerns, such as anti-aging, dull complexion, acne, and more. dermHA® carries a full line of skin care, such as:
• Cleansers
• Exfoliators
• Masks
• Body treatments
• Moisturizers
• Lip care
• Products for more delicate areas, such as the eyes and neck

Revisions Skincare® Products

Revisions Skincare® is based on science that is clinically proven to improve skin health. The ingredients are carefully vetted and selected based on true benefits for all skin types. Specifically, the products are formulated with:
• Multiple delivery pathways to enrich the skin with key nutrients
• Up to eight different peptides
• Neutral pH for the skin
• Leveraging microbiome via prebiotics
• Synergy across ingredients to maximize benefits to the skin

How to Order dermHA® and Revisions Skincare® Online

You can order dermHA® (www.dermaha.com) and Revisions Skincare® (www.revisionskincare.com) products directly from their websites. Use coupon code epollardmd during checkout and receive 10% off all dermHA® products. Because these are prescription products, you will need to list Dr. Emily Pollard as your provider.

Not Sure What to Order? Schedule a Virtual Consultation

If you are uncertain about which products to order for your skin type and concerns, Pollard Plastic Surgery is offering virtual consultations for patients. You can speak with Dr. Pollard about your skincare options, and she can provide some professional insight as to which dermHA® and Revisions Skincare® products will best suit your needs.

April 5, 2020March 4, 2020

Five Tummy Tuck Recovery Tips

Getting a tummy tuck is no small procedure. Tummy tuck recovery is often more involved than patients anticipate. After a tummy tuck, patients are left wondering:

How do I sit or sleep?
How do I walk when I’m supposed to be bent over?
What do I do with the binder?
How do I go to the bathroom?

Dr. Pollard wanted to give you a list of five tips to help you with your tummy tuck recovery. Use this as your guide to help you have the most successful tummy tuck recovery with the best ultimate results.

1. Use a Walker or Cane

A tummy tuck will naturally put tension on the area where Dr. Pollard made her incision. You’ll generally feel straining around the incision area and where the abdominal muscles were tightened underneath the skin. This tension may make it hard for you to walk upright, and staying slightly bent at the waist will typically feel more comfortable. Consider using a walker or a cane for support while you’re bent over. While this isn’t completely necessary, patients typically find it easier to make their way around with the extra help.

2. Use Maxi Pads or Gauze

Sometimes wearing the binder can feel uncomfortable against your hip bones and your incision. While you should never touch your dressings without getting the OK from Dr. Pollard first, it is beneficial to keep 4×4 pads of gauze or maxi pads around to add a buffer and some padding between yourself and the binder. This extra padding typically makes the binder more comfortable for patients to wear during tummy tuck recovery.

3. Adjusting Your Binder

When tummy tuck incisions are low, the binder used after tummy tuck surgery will have to rest at the top of the hips. Because of this, it generally has the tendency to ride up or shift when you sit. You’ll want to make sure you’re regularly readjusting your binder into the correct position at the correct tightness. With a marker, place a mark at how tight you’re supposed to adjust it. This guarantees you’re making sure it’s at the right fit every time. Putting your binder on can also be made easier while reclining or in bed.

4. Get Some Compression Stockings

With any surgery, there’s always an opportunity for blood clotting issues. Dr. Pollard will provide you with a pair of knee-high compression stockings to reduce the chance of blood clots forming after tummy tuck surgery. While the stockings may not be the most comfortable things in the world, they will keep some of the swelling out of the legs and continue to reduce the chance for a blood clot while being worn.

5. Toilet Seat Booster

Generally, toilets are fairly low to the ground and we don’t realize this until some part of our legs, pelvis or core is sore. After a tummy tuck, getting low enough to sit down on the toilet can be difficult and uncomfortable. A toilet seat booster may just be your new best friend. This device can be purchased online and delivered to your home for your convenience. We guarantee this is one purchase that you won’t regret.

To learn more about recovering from a tummy tuck, contact us today to schedule your one-on-one consultation with Dr. Emily Pollard.

April 1, 2020March 4, 2020

Can a Breast Lift Be Done Without Implants?

We all want to feel good about the size, shape, and placement of our breasts. Over recent years, breast enhancements have been giving us more natural-looking improved breasts than ever before. When considering breast enhancement surgery, it can sometimes be difficult to choose which option is best for you. Let’s break things down and help you figure out which type of breast enhancement will help with your concerns.

What is a Breast Lift?

A breast lift is a breast enhancement procedure that helps improve the placement of your breasts on your chest. Sagging breasts can be an inevitable part of our lives. Whether your sagging breasts are caused by pregnancy, breastfeeding, aging or dramatic weight loss, drooping breasts can often leave anyone feeling self-conscious. A breast lift surgically lifts your breasts to a heightened position on the chest by removing excess skin and tissue that causes your breasts to sag. A breast lift does not add volume to the breast, rather it simply creates a perkier appearance by removing excess skin.

What is Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation is a breast enhancement procedure that uses breast implants to add to the volume and shape of the breasts. A breast lift removes excess skin from the breast to improve shape and placement. Breast augmentation introduces an implant to the breast to enhance overall size, shape and volume. While breast augmentation may help to improve the placement of the breasts on the chest, it is a breast lift’s job to create perfect placement.

Can I Have a Breast Lift Without Breast Implants?

In short, absolutely. A breast lift is not a breast augmentation and does not require the use of breast implants to help you achieve your desired results. However, the two procedures can be combined together to produce larger breasts that lay perfectly on the chest. While it is not a requirement to get both procedures done at the same time, many patients opt to get the benefits of both lifted and augmented breasts by getting a breast lift with implants. If you do not choose to enhance the size of your breasts, feel free to enjoy the results of your breast lift without the use of breast implants.

Should I Get a Breast Lift or Breast Augmentation?

The answer to this question ultimately relies on the results you expect and desire from your surgery. If you would like to lift your breasts without affecting their overall size, we recommend you get a breast lift without implants. If you would like larger breasts placed higher on the chest, we recommend you get a breast lift and breast augmentation with implants. If you’re unsure which option is best for your body and desired results, come in for a consultation with Dr. Emily Pollard. Her number one priority is making sure you’re informed about your future procedures and feel comfortable with your decisions.

If you are interested in learning more about breast enhancement, contact our office today to schedule your one-on-one consultation with Dr. Emily Pollard.

March 5, 2020March 4, 2020

What You Need to Know about the Tummy Tuck

It’s normal for many women to see their bodies post-pregnancy and wish they had their tight tummy back. Thanks to tummy tuck surgery, you can get your bikini body back in no-time. Here’s your guide to everything you need to know when considering a tummy tuck.

What is a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, targets two areas of the midsection – the abdominal muscles and the skin covering the tummy area. Not only does this procedure help get rid of any excess fat or skin around the midriff, but it also tightens the muscles in the abdomen to make your core look and feel stronger than ever before.

Can I get Liposuction and a Tummy Tuck at the Same Time?

Liposuction alone can work wonders for removing fat from your abdominal area. However, this popular procedure has some misconceptions. Contrary to popular belief, there is no way to tighten your tummy with liposuction alone. That’s why this procedure is the perfect complement to the tummy tuck. With the power of both, you can remove stubborn pockets of fat from your midsection while removing excess skin and tightening the core.

What Are the Benefits of a Tummy Tuck?

There are many benefits to getting a tummy tuck surgery, including:

Tightened abdominal muscles
Removal of excess skin and fat
Liposuction may be performed at the same time to optimize results
Flatter stomach

What is the Average Cost of a Tummy Tuck?

The cost of your tummy tuck is going to depend on multiple factors including the condition of your abdominal area before surgery and the addition of liposuction or other procedures to your tummy tuck. Dr. Pollard’s staff will review the cost of your plan during your one-on-one consultation with Dr. Pollard. If you’re worried about paying for your surgery, worry no more. Dr. Pollard offers financing options like CareCredit® and Alphaeon™ to help you break your bill up into smaller monthly payments.

How Long Does it Take to Recover from a Tummy Tuck?

The tummy tuck is an involved procedure that requires general anesthesia. Because of this, tummy tuck recovery should not be taken lightly. Dr. Pollard generally advises patients to take two to four weeks off from work to rest and let their bodies heal. Keep in mind, it’s typical to feel uncomfortable for the first few days. You may not be able to stand straight and your midsection will feel very tight.

If you are interested in learning more about tummy tuck surgery, contact us today to schedule your one-on-one consultation with Dr. Emily Pollard. She will sit down with you, listen to your concerns, and develop a fully customized treatment plan to help you achieve your ultimate aesthetic goals.

February 5, 2020February 5, 2020

How Long Does it Take to Recover from Breast Augmentation?

When undergoing any surgery, it’s important to remember that the surgery is only half of the process. Recovering from breast augmentation surgery can be just as daunting as the surgery itself if you do not know what to expect. We’re going to take you through each step of the way and what you can expect when you recover from breast augmentation surgery.

The First 24 Hours

Immediately after breast augmentation surgery, it’s normal to feel a moderate amount of discomfort. Keep in mind this can generally be managed with over-the-counter or prescription medication, depending on what Dr. Pollard recommends to you. Your arm movements will be restricted for the first day or two, so make sure you have some easily removable shirts around, like button-down or zip-up tops. Remember you will need to avoid anything that will thin your blood during this time, including nicotine and tobacco.

Five to 10 Days Post-Augmentation

During this period, you’ll typically be asked to do some displacement exercises. These exercises help you achieve a more natural-looking breast augmentation after your recovery. After 48 hours, you should be cleared to drive, so long as you are not taking any prescription medications that can impair your motor skills and you feel physically able to make a sudden turn. Make sure to check with Dr. Pollard before getting behind the wheel. Keep in mind you may have one or two follow-up visits in the first 10 days.

10 to 14 Days Post-Augmentation

This is the point where everything starts to settle and return to normal. You will get the green light to return to work and resume light lower-body exercises and activities. Although you are getting back to normal after recovering from breast augmentation, it is still important to note you should not lift anything heavy or participate in any intense aerobic activities at this time.

Two to Six Weeks Post-Augmentation

About one month after breast augmentations surgery, you’ll begin to see your final results. Your breasts will start to settle into their natural position and you shouldn’t be experiencing much discomfort anymore. At the four week mark, you can also start to transition from your surgical bra back to your regular bras. At about six weeks, you should be able to start more rigorous physical activities again like upper body workouts and running.

Bonus Breast Augmentation Recovery Tips

Keep these in mind when you’re recovering from breast augmentation surgery.

Avoid blood-thinning medications, like Aspirin.
Once Dr. Pollard gives you the OK, moisturize regularly with the dermHA Therapeutic Creme to avoid stretch marks.
Make sure you get lots of rest – this will help speed the recovery process.
Avoid sleeping on your sides. Instead, rest upright with pillows behind your back.
Don’t be alarmed if your nipples are hypersensitive or lacking sensation after your breast augmentation – they’ve been through a lot and sensation will generally return to normal on its own.

If you are interested in learning more about breast augmentation or recovery from breast augmentation, contact us today to schedule your one-on-one consultation with Dr. Pollard.

January 7, 2020December 8, 2020

Your Ultimate Guide to Dermal Fillers

Over the years, dermal fillers have become the hottest trend in beauty. The minimally invasive treatments have taken America by storm with their dramatic, yet natural-looking results for men and women of all ages. Not sure where to start in picking the right dermal filler for your concerns? Here’s everything you need to know.

What Are Dermal Fillers?

Injectable dermal fillers are gel-like substances that are injected into areas of the face with fine lines, wrinkles, or a loss of volume. Most dermal fillers are made of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring sugar in the body that bonds to water to keep the skin plump and glowing. As we age, our body’s production of hyaluronic acid slows down, causing wrinkles and hollows to the face. It’s a dermal filler’s job to rejuvenate the skin and keep us looking youthful.

Which Dermal Filler is Right for Me?

It’s important to note that not all dermal fillers are created equally. Each dermal filler has its own set of unique properties to help solve different concerns with the skin. Let’s go over three basic fillers and what they can do for you.

Restylane®

Restylane® is an easy go-to for many patients. While some dermal fillers focus on improving just one area of the face, Restylane® is more of a multi-functional tool. You can use Restylane® to treat your crow’s feet, thin lips, laugh lines, sunken in cheeks, sagging skin and vertical lip lines.

Restylane® Lyft

Restylane® Lyft, formerly known as Perlane® is a revamped version of an old favorite. This dermal filler not only treats the skin on your face, but can also add volume and hydration to the skin on your hands. Use Restylane® Lyft if you’re concerned about deep lines in the midface and lost volume in the hands.

Radiesse®

Radiesse® is a dermal filler formulated with calcium-based microspheres that fill in and correct wrinkles in the face and hands. Unlike Restylane® and other hyaluronic acid-based fillers, Radiesse uses these calcium-based microspheres to stimulate the body’s natural production of collagen, which corrects the signs of aging over time. If you’re concerned about laugh lines or lost volume in the hands, Radiesse® may be right for you.

Sculptra®

Another option to help reduce signs of aging in the face is Sculptra®. Sculptra® uses poly-L-lactic acid to correct laugh lines, marionette lines, chin wrinkles, and other wrinkles in the midface. Like the active ingredient in Radiesse®, poly-L-lactic acid triggers the body’s natural production of collagen to give you long-lasting results.

What Can I Expect During My Appointment?

At the very beginning of the appointment, Dr. Pollard will complete a comprehensive facial assessment by listening to your concerns. She will then create a personalized treatment plan to address these concerns and counter the effects of aging. Once a treatment plan is established, Dr. Pollard will begin your treatment by numbing the area with ice packs. This will help with any discomfort you may feel during your treatment. After you’re fully numb, Dr. Pollard will make a series of injections into the treatment area. The whole process takes less than an hour and there’s no downtime or recovery needed. You’ll be able to see results immediately after your treatment, with the best results in a few days after the swelling goes down. Dermal fillers usually last in the skin for about four to six months, so follow up with your doctor when you’re ready for your next round.

If you want to learn more about how dermal fillers can help you, contact our office to schedule your one-on-one consultation with Dr. Emily Pollard today. She’ll sit down with you, listen to your concerns and create a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve your ultimate cosmetic goals

December 10, 2019April 26, 2019

Liposuction vs. CoolSculpting® in Philadelphia, PA

When working hard to achieve a healthy, fit body, diet and exercise are key. However, there are times when diet and exercise alone are not enough. Even with the most regimented and careful plans, you may find yourself struggling with excess fat that refuses to budge. If this sounds familiar, then you may have been considering fat removal options such as liposuction and CoolSculpting®. So what is the difference between the two, and which one should you choose? Here is what you need to know.

The Cost is Customized

At Pollard Plastic Surgery, we strive to provide our patients with the most comprehensive treatments available. Because we believe there is no one-size-fits-all cost, we price each procedure according to the individual. This means that you can expect to discuss your customized treatment cost during your consultation.

Liposuction 101

For years, liposuction has been a trusted method for removing unwanted fat from areas such as the abdomen, hips, torso, arms, thighs and more. Dr. Pollard uses the VASER® liposuction technique to target the unwanted fat cells, while still protecting the nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. During the procedure, high-energy ultrasound beams target and liquefy unwanted fat cells. These liquefied cells are then suctioned out of the body through small incisions. Thanks to Dr. Pollard’s skills and advanced techniques, recovery and potential side effects are minimized.

CoolSculpting® 101

A non-invasive choice, CoolSculpting® is another option for individuals seeking to contour their shape and remove pesky, unwanted fat. This procedure uses a controlled cooling method to freeze the unwanted fat cells. Once the targeted cells are frozen, they will be naturally eliminated from the body. Most patients report the procedure is painless. Additionally, there is no required downtime and you are free to return to your daily routine as soon as your procedure is complete.

Which Option is Best?

Ultimately, the best way to determine which procedure is right for you is to schedule a consultation. This will allow you to speak with Dr. Pollard regarding your concerns so that she can create a plan that is most suited for your needs. It is important to remember that neither one of these procedures is considered a weight loss procedure, but rather, a way to contour your shape.

Our team has already helped countless patients in the Philadelphia area with their body contouring journey, and we are ready to do the same for you. So when you are ready to take the next step, do not hesitate to contact us.

November 5, 2019April 26, 2019

Treatments that Improve Your Neck Line in Philadelphia, PA

A smooth, wrinkle-free neck is an essential part of looking and feeling your best. While a certain amount of sagging, wrinkling and loose skin is a natural part of aging, these are not conditions you simply have to accept. So if you are seeking treatments to improve your neck line, here is what we recommend:

Consider Your Financial Investment

Before you decide to undergo a neck treatment, it is important to consider what kind of monetary investment you are ready to make. At Pollard Plastic Surgery, we tailor the cost to each individual’s treatment plan. As a result, you can expect to discuss your pricing during your consultation. To help make your treatment more accessible, we are happy to accept CareCredit® and Alphaeon™ Credit payment plans.

Determine Your Primary Concern

We have a variety of treatment options available, depending on the neck issue you are seeking to address. For individuals looking to reduce a double chin, Kybella® is an excellent choice. This injectable is FDA-approved to reduce extra fat cells under the chin.

If sagging skin is your biggest obstacle, non-invasive skin tightening, such as EndyMed™ could be the answer. This procedure safely heats the dermal layer to tighten, reduce wrinkles, even out skin tone and more.

Of course, each patient is unique, and if it is determined that non-invasive or minimally invasive procedures simply won’t deliver the results you are seeking, then a surgical neck lift may be the solution.

The best way to determine which treatment is most suited to your needs is to schedule a consultation. This will allow Dr. Pollard to thoroughly evaluate your concerns, understand your goals and create a plan that will deliver high-quality results.

Give Us a Call

At Pollard Plastic Surgery, we understand how important it is to look and feel your best at any age. And if signs of aging on your neck are causing you concern, rest assured that we are here to help. Our team, led by Dr. Emily Pollard, has already assisted countless patients in and around Philadelphia with improving their neck treatments. Now, we are ready to do the same for you. So if you have questions and are ready to take the next step, do not hesitate to contact us.

CALL TODAY to schedule a consultation

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