Menu Button
Call Button
Location Button
Pollard Plastic Surgery
Pollard Plastic Surgery

CALL TODAY to schedule a consultation

TRUST AN EXPERT 610-674-0779
SCHEDULE YOUR CONSULTATION
Schedule Your Consultation
610-674-0779
Schedule Your Consultation
610-674-0779

TRUST AN EXPERT

Award Winning Plastic Surgeon Proudly Celebrating Over 30 Years In Practice

Category: Body Countouring

Posted on

Does Belly Fat Come Back After a Tummy Tuck?

Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) in Philadelphia, PAOne of the biggest insecurities a lot of our patients have is the extra skin around their abdomens. Thankfully, a tummy tuck can help reduce the excess skin around the midsection and strengthen the abdominal muscles underneath the skin for a tighter, slimmer silhouette. That being said, there are still many misconceptions about what the tummy tuck can do for our patients. Let’s clear up where lines may be blurred and go over what a tummy tuck can and cannot do for you.

A Tummy Tuck CANNOT Help You Lose Weight

Contrary to popular belief, a tummy tuck does not help our patients lose the weight they think they’re going to. The goal of a tummy tuck is to tighten weakened abdominal muscles and remove excess hanging skin around the midsection to produce a tighter and more flattering core appearance. That being said, a tummy tuck does not help you get rid of excess fat around your midsection or help you lose those last stubborn couple of pounds. Any weight you do lose after surgery will be the weight of excess skin hanging around your belly area.

A Tummy Tuck CAN be Performed with Liposuction

While a tummy tuck can’t help you get rid of your unwanted belly fat, liposuction can. Liposuction is a surgical cosmetic procedure that uses a gentle vacuum system to permanently remove fatty tissues from the body for a sleek, slim appearance. Patients typically opt to receive liposuction in addition to their tummy tucks to help them get the smooth and tight silhouette they desire.

A Tummy Tuck CAN Increase Confidence in the Long Run

It’s no secret that a flat and tight core can increase someone’s confidence. Following their tummy tucks, our patients report feeling a brand new found confidence in themselves and their bodies. They report feeling more comfortable wearing more tight-fitting clothing, going to a pool or the beach without a worry, and even feeling more confident in their own intimates!

A Tummy Tuck CANNOT Prevent Future Weight Gain

While a tummy tuck sounds like a magical solution for many of our patients, it’s always important to keep in mind that a tummy tuck (or any cosmetic surgery) is not a permanent fix for any issue without the proper maintenance. A tummy tuck gives our patients the initial boost they need to get the body they desire, however, we encourage our patients to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle to ensure they maintain their results for the long-run.

Is a Tummy Tuck Right for Me?

If you’re looking for a procedure to help strengthen your abdominal muscles and tighten the skin around your midsection, a tummy tuck may be right for you. The best way to find out if a tummy tuck is right for you is to schedule a private consultation with Dr. Pollard. She’ll be happy to sit down with you, listen to your concerns, and develop a personalized treatment plan just for you.

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.

Posted on

Is a Tummy Tuck Painful?

Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) in Philadelphia, PAWhen considering any form of cosmetic surgery, many of the patients that come into our office are concerned about how painful the procedure is going to be. While there will be discomfort through any type of surgery, we don’t want our patients to be so scared of their healing process that they lose sight of the benefits they get with their procedure. Let’s talk about post-tummy tuck pain and how you can manage it for a smooth and swift recovery.

What is a Tummy Tuck?

Before getting into the nitty-gritty of how to manage your post-operative pain, let’s go over what will cause your discomfort following surgery. A tummy tuck is a surgical cosmetic procedure that involves tightening the skin around the abdomen for a tighter, flatter silhouette. During your procedure, Dr. Emily Pollard will make an incision from hip to hip. Through this incision she will tighten your abdominal muscles and pull the skin tight over the abdomen before trimming away excess tissue and closing the incision. The entire surgery typically takes a few hours to complete.

The Pain After a Tummy Tuck

When it comes to post-operative pain, it’s important to know why you’re feeling the discomfort that you’re feeling. Prior to a tummy tuck, the patient typically has a large amount of loose skin around their abdominal area, and their abdominal muscles or abdominal wall is generally weak. This may be caused by pregnancy, child birth, or an extreme weight loss. During your tummy tuck, Dr. Pollard tightens these core muscles and pulls the skin taut against the body for a brand new silhouette. This tension throughout the body is not something patients are typically used to, causing a great deal of discomfort before healing and adjusting to their new body.

Managing Your Post-Operative Pain

Dr. Pollard wants to ensure that you’re as comfortable as possible throughout your entire healing process. When it comes to managing your post-operative pain, we encourage you to take the following steps:

  • Take prescription medication as instructed. Prescription pain medications can be intimidating, but are prescribed for a good reason. In small doses, these prescription medications allow for pain relief without causing blood thinning or bleeding. Keep in mind that these medications may cause constipation in small doses and can be dangerous when taken outside of Dr. Pollard’s instruction.
  • Over-the-counter medications are great too. Pollard, along with many other surgeons, may recommend taking over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen within the first few days of recovery to reduce swelling and help your prescription medications work more smoothly.

We hope we were able to answer some of your most pressing questions about tummy tuck pain. 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.

Posted on

Five Tummy Tuck Recovery Tips

Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) in Philadelphia, PAGetting 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.

Posted on

What You Need to Know about the Tummy Tuck

Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) in Philadelphia, PAIt’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.

Posted on

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.

Posted on

Philadelphia’s 6-Month Guide to Planning a Tummy Tuck

A tummy tuck is an excellent procedure for anyone seeking to address excess skin or sagging muscles in the abdominal area. This procedure can successfully sculpt and contour your body so that you can appreciate all of your hard work after childbirth, weight loss or any other major physical transition. So if you have been curious about what is involved in a tummy tuck and are ready to learn more, here is a six-month plan to keep in mind:

Six Months in Advance: Lifestyle

If you are reading this article, then chances are now is a good time to evaluate your diet and exercise choices. Although a tummy tuck is a highly successful procedure for contouring the body, you want your body to be in as good a shape as possible, so that you can achieve the most desirable results. Be sure to revamp your food and movement choices, so that you are supporting your body in staying healthy and fit as well as healing properly after surgery.

Four Months in Advance: Consultation, Financing

Around this time, you should schedule a consultation with any surgeons you are interested in meeting. This will allow you to decide if you feel confident in the surgeon’s abilities. This will also help you to determine how you will be paying for your procedure. At Pollard Plastic Surgery, we accept a variety of payment including CareCredit® and Alphaeon™ Credit payment plans, so your procedure can fit in your budget. 

Two Months in Advance: Prep Your Work and Family

As your surgery date begins to draw closer, you’ll need to make sure your work and family are prepared for your absence and recovery time. Schedule time off, ensure any work projects are taken care of and make arrangements for any childcare or pet care you may need. Recovering from a tummy tuck will take the majority of your attention, so having these support systems in place is important for keeping the rest of your life running smoothly.

One Month in Advance: Prep Your Home

In the final month before your procedure, stock up on any necessary supplies as recommended by your surgeon. You may also want to prepare a meal plan or make food in advance, so as to eliminate uncertainty during your recovery.

Let Us Answer Your Tummy Tuck Questions

At Pollard Plastic Surgery, we understand how daunting a surgery like a tummy tuck can be. That is why we are here to help, every step of the way. Our team has already assisted countless patients in and around Philadelphia, PA. 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.

Posted on

Philadelphia Residents Ask: Does CoolSculpting® Work?

The idea of freezing away unwanted fat almost sounds too good to be true! However, that is exactly what you can experience with the help of CoolSculpting®. This innovative and effective procedure is ideal for those who have worked hard to achieve their desired weight. So if you have been wondering how, why and if this treatment actually works, here is what you need to know:

The Procedure is Simple and Effective

Designed for those who are within range of their target weight but who just need a little more help to eliminate unwanted fat, CoolSculpting® is FDA-approved and non-invasive. During the procedure, the CoolSculpting® applicator is placed on the treatment area to pull the skin close to the device before activating the cooling technology that freezes unwanted fat cells. Once frozen, these cells will be naturally processed out of the body, leaving you with the slimmer and more defined form you desire. Whether you have excess fat on your back, arms, abdomen, bra area, thighs or midsection, CoolSculpting® can help.

CoolSculpting® Could Fit Your Budget

At Pollard Plastic Surgery, we strive to provide the most custom-made experience for each of our patients. As a result, costs are calculated on an individual basis, at the time of your consultation. Rest assured, we accept a wide range of payment options, including CareCredit® and Alphaeon™ Credit payment plans, so you can afford the body of your dreams.

Benefits are Long-Term

There are several major benefits to CoolSculpting®. In addition to the fact that it is non-invasive and does not require incisions or anesthesia, CoolSculpting® is pain-free and requires zero downtime. You can return to your normal routine as soon as your procedure is complete. And once the targeted fat cells are eliminated, they can never return. This means that provided you follow a healthy diet and lifestyle, your CoolSculpting® results can last a lifetime.

Freeze Away Unwanted Fat Today

The simple, seamless and effective approach of CoolSculpting® means that there is no better time than the present to finally eliminate your unwanted fat, to make way for the sleek, toned and beautiful body you have been working towards. Our team has already helped countless patients in and around Philadelphia, PA, and now we are ready to do the same for you. So if you have questions and are ready to learn more, do not hesitate to contact us.

Posted on

5 Reasons Men are Having CoolSculpting® Treatments in Philadelphia, PA

Having a sleek, toned and defined body isn’t just for women. In recent years, men have become increasingly interested in what the plastic surgery world has to offer, specifically with regard to how they can benefit from the innovative and effective CoolSculpting® procedure. FDA-approved to freeze away unwanted fat, there has never been a better time to achieve the shape you desire. Here are five reasons men are having CoolSculpting® treatments in Philadelphia, PA:

It’s Convenient

One of the most attractive aspects of CoolSculpting® is how convenient the procedure can be. This non-invasive treatment does not require incisions or anesthesia. In fact, most patients say it’s entirely painless, given the controlled cooling method. Once your procedure is complete, you are free to return to your daily routine, with zero required downtime. And since the frozen cells will be naturally processed through the body, CoolSculpting® offers a relatively hands-free method for shedding that lingering unwanted weight.

The Procedure is Cost-Effective

At Pollard Plastic Surgery, our procedures are priced on an individual basis. This allows us to charge you the most accurate fee, based on your specific treatment. As a result, you can expect to discuss cost and any relevant financing during your consultation. Given the fact that with proper diet and exercise, your CoolSculpting® results can last a lifetime, many patients feel that this is a procedure that is entirely worth their investment.

Each Treatment is Customized

When you trust your CoolSculpting® to Pollard Plastic Surgery, you can rest assured that you will receive only the highest quality in personalized care. Whether you are seeking to eliminate a double chin, reduce fat on the abs, flanks, or a combination of regions, we are here to help customize your treatment to your specific needs.

Pollard Plastic Surgery Can Help

Men, there is no longer any reason to settle for unwanted fat that makes you feel uncomfortable in your skin. With the help of CoolSculpting®, you can achieve the defined shape you desire. Our team has already helped countless male patients in and around Philadelphia, PA. Now, we are ready to do the same for you. So if you have questions and are ready to learn more, do not hesitate to contact us.

Posted on

Is Your Stomach Sagging After Pregnancy? We’ve Got a Solution

Pregnancy and becoming a mother are one of Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) in Philadelphia, PAlife’s greatest gifts. But, what they do to your body – now, that’s a different story. Many women following childbirth are left with deflated, sagging breasts and a tummy that doesn’t even resemble its pre-baby form due to hanging loose skin.

During pregnancy, the abdomen stretches as the baby grows. For some women, once the baby is born, their stomach shrinks back to its former shape and size; however, for other women, they aren’t all too lucky. Many new moms are left with loose sagging skin due to the abdominal skin becoming overly stretched to the point of no repair. The skin loses its elasticity and is unable to retract back. And to top things off, no amount of diet or exercise is able to eliminate the hanging skin. So, what can you do to get your firm and tone tummy back?

Firm Up Your Tummy with a Tummy Tuck

A tummy tuck is a popular cosmetic surgery procedure that removes excess skin from the abdomen to create a flat and toned midsection. It involves making an incision in the abdomen from hip bone to hip bone. The shape and length of the incision is determined by the amount of excess skin that needs to be removed. After the extra skin has been excised, liposuction may be used to remove any unwanted fat as a tummy tuck only removes skin, then the abdominal muscles are repaired. During pregnancy, the muscles in your abdomen can also become loose and separated due to stretching, often causing a protruding belly. Once the excess skin has been removed and the abdominal muscles repaired, the remaining skin is pulled taut and sutured shut.

Abdominoplasty is an invasive procedure, so it does require a recovery period. During this time, you will need to rest and be careful not to pull on your sutures. Once your stomach has healed and sutures removed, you will be left with a smooth and contoured abdomen.

Schedule Your Tummy Tuck Consultation at Pollard Plastic Surgery

If you’re ready to have your pre-pregnancy tummy back and feel like yourself again, contact Dr. Emily Pollard at Pollard Plastic Surgery and schedule a consultation. Just because you’re a mom now, doesn’t mean you have to “look” like one. A tummy tuck can give you back your confidence and your sleek physique. Contact us today!

Posted on

Liposuction vs. Fat Freezing (CoolSculpting®) in Philadelphia

We all have those stubborn pockets of fat that won’t seem to budge no matter how much we diet or exercise. Up until recently, liposuction was the method of choice to eliminate unwanted fat; however, now thanks to advancement in medicine and technology, there are several non-surgical options to select from as well including CoolSculpting®. So, with various fat removal options, how do you know which one is right for you? Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Emily Pollard will work with you and help you decide which treatment is right for you and your aesthetic goals. Here’s a breakdown on what both liposuction and fat freezing have to offer.

 

Liposuction – Fat Removal for Large Areas

Over the years, liposuction has proven to be a safe and effective procedure for fat removal. It is able to eliminate unwanted fat to give you a beautifully contoured figure. It is performed by inserting a small cannula into the treatment area so fat can be removed from the body. Following treatment, there is a recovery period needed where compression garments may be advised to help aid in healing and shape your newly contoured figure. Liposuction is a great treatment modality to pair with other cosmetic procedures to achieve optimum results. Unlike other fat removal techniques, liposuction is capable and is ideal for treating larger areas to achieve dramatic results.

 

Fat Freezing (CoolSculpting®) – Fat Removal Perfect for Touch-ups

Not everyone needs major fat removal. Some of us simply have those stubborn spots around our waist or thighs that need a little smoothing out. This is where fat freezing with CoolSculpting® is ideal. It is non-surgical and only requires an in-office treatment. Using cryolipolysis technology, CoolScuplting® freezes the unwanted fat cells, and the body naturally eliminates them over time. It is completely painless with most patients only feeling a slight tugging or pulling as the applicator is placed on the skin. Once the cooling component is turned on patients may then feel a tingling sensation. Treatments are quick and require no downtime, allowing you to get back to work or your daily life immediately.

 

No matter what your fat removal needs are, Pollard Plastic Surgery can help. We’ll help you devise a treatment plan and select between liposuction or CoolSculpting® to achieve the results you desire. Both treatments provide excellent contoured results while keeping you safe and comfortable. If you have localized fatty deposits that you want to banish, contact Pollard Plastic Surgery today to schedule a consultation.

TRUST AN EXPERT

CALL TODAY to schedule a consultation

TRUST AN EXPERT 610-674-0779
15 Presidential Blvd #102, Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004
Schedule Your Consultation
610-674-0779
Copyright © 2021, Marketing by Red Spot Interactive

Pollard Plastic Surgery is committed to ensuring that their website is accessible to people with disabilities. All of the pages on our website will meet W3C WAI’s Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.0, Level AA conformance. Any issues should be reported to accessibility@redspotinteractive.com.

Accessibility by WAH
Plastic Surgeon in Philadelphia