Plastic surgery is a significant decision and knowing what to expect before and after the surgery can help you make the most informed decision possible.

Preparing for plastic surgery is a vital step in ensuring a smooth and successful experience as is the recovery process. Let’s take a look at what steps you should take before surgery to ensure the best results and what you can expect from the recovery process.

Before Surgery: How to Prepare for Your Plastic Surgery

Preparing for plastic surgery is crucial for a successful outcome. The following tips can ensure whatever procedure you’re having is as successful as possible.

Start and Maintain a Healthy Diet

If you aren’t already on a healthy diet, now is the time to start one. And if you are, make sure to stick to it in the weeks before the procedure.  A healthy diet can help you achieve better healing, faster recovery, and reduce the risk of complications.

It is recommended to eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and sugary processed foods if you can help it. They will only hinder your body’s ability to heal. Your plastic surgeon can provide more specific dietary recommendations based on your individual needs.

Quit Smoking

Quitting smoking is an essential step when preparing for plastic surgery. Smoking can increase the risk of complications, slow down the healing process, and affect the final results.

The ingredients in cigarettes can constrict blood vessels and reduce blood flow, limiting the oxygen and nutrients necessary for healing. It is recommended to quit smoking at least four weeks before and after the surgery to reduce the risk of complications and promote faster recovery.

Exercise

Exercise is another important way to prepare for plastic surgery. It can help you maintain a healthy weight, improve circulation, and boost your immune system. All of these things can aid your recovery.

However, following your plastic surgeon’s recommendations for exercise before and after the surgery is essential to prevent complications and promote proper healing. Don’t overdo it and risk an injury.

Stock Up on Post-Surgery Supplies

Stocking up on post-surgery supplies is also essential when preparing for plastic surgery. It will help you avoid unnecessary trips to the store when you may not be up for it and allow you to focus on recovery. Even if you have someone taking care of you post-surgery, having everything you need makes it easier for them as well.

Some essential items to consider include comfortable clothing, slip-on shoes, gauze pads, ice packs, and prescription medications.

After Surgery: The Recovery Process

Recovering from plastic surgery is just as important as preparing for the surgery and the surgery itself. Some tips you’ll want to be sure you stick to include:

Follow your plastic surgeon’s instructions

Your plastic surgeon will provide detailed instructions on how to care for yourself after the surgery. Follow these instructions carefully to ensure a smooth recovery. And if there is someone taking care of you, make sure they know about these instructions as well.

Manage pain and discomfort

Pain and discomfort are common after plastic surgery. Your plastic surgeon will prescribe medication to manage these symptoms. Be sure to fill your prescriptions and take the medication as directed.

Rest and recover

Rest is essential for a successful recovery from any procedure but especially plastic surgery. Follow your plastic surgeon’s advice on how much rest you need, and avoid any strenuous activities.

Watch for signs of complications

Watch for any signs of complications such as fever, excessive bleeding, or infection. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your plastic surgeon immediately.

Attend follow-up appointments

To ensure everything is healing properly, attend all follow-up appointments with your plastic surgeon. These appointments are crucial for monitoring your progress and ensuring a healthy recovery process

Schedule A Consultation

Preparing for plastic surgery and the recovery process is crucial for a successful outcome. If you’re contemplating surgery and would like to know more about what to do to prepare and what the recovery process looks like, schedule a consultation with New Image Plastic Surgery today. Dr. Homas and Dr. Brostrom can answer any questions or concerns you may have.

To schedule an appointment, please call us at our San Antonia, TX office at (210) 988-9819 or use our online contact form. We look forward to helping you achieve your goals.

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Plastic surgery has become increasingly popular, with more and more people opting for cosmetic procedures to enhance their appearance. However, with the rise of cheap overseas plastic surgery, sometimes called medical tourism, there are growing concerns about the safety and effectiveness of these procedures. While the allure of low prices and the promise of a better appearance can be tempting, it is essential to consider the possible dangers associated with these surgeries. If you’re considering heading overseas for your cosmetic procedure, then here are a few reasons to consider a board-certified plastic surgeon here in San Antonio instead.

Different Standards of Medical Training

One of the biggest dangers of medical tourism is the quality of care. Each country has its own unique regulations when performing plastic surgery, which may result in a lack of oversight and minimal requirements for medical training. Because of the different standards, knowing the surgeon’s qualifications for performing the procedure can be difficult, and there may be a higher risk of complications and poor outcomes. Rather than being able to easily find the most qualified plastic surgeons, you may end up with someone who has very minimal experience performing your procedure.

Different Surgical Standards

Many overseas cosmetic clinics and surgeons may have different equipment and resources than those in the United States. Depending on the location, they may not have the ability to meet certain standards of care if you run into complications during your procedure. They may not also have the advanced technologies needed to ensure you get the best results. This means you may take on a higher level of risk by opting to travel overseas.

Different Languages and Communication Styles

Another risk with getting plastic surgery overseas is the potential language barrier. Communication is a crucial part of any medical procedure, and it is essential that both the patient and surgeon can understand each other. If you go to a country where your language is not the majority, you may have trouble expressing key details of your wants and needs to your surgeon, leading to potentially catastrophic miscommunication.

Different Access to Aftercare

Aftercare is an important consideration when it comes to plastic surgery. Following a procedure, it is important to have access to proper aftercare to ensure a smooth recovery and minimize the risk of complications. However, in some countries, the level of aftercare provided may not be as thorough as in the United States, which can lead to longer recovery times and a higher risk of complications. You may also have trouble understanding specific steps due to language barriers. Another potential danger is the distance between the patient and their surgeon. If complications arise, contacting the surgeon or traveling back to the country where the surgery was performed may be difficult. This can make it challenging to receive proper follow-up care from your initial surgeon, which is essential for ensuring a successful outcome.

Schedule a Consultation

Overall, there are many potential dangers associated with cheap overseas plastic surgery. While promising a better appearance at a lower cost can be tempting, carefully considering the risks and potential complications is important. If you’re interested in plastic surgery, it’s always best to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. To meet with Drs. Homas and Brostrom and learn more, contact New Image Plastic Surgery by calling or filling out our online form.

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The popularity of plastic surgery procedures on TikTok has increased exponentially in the last couple of years. However, just because a plastic surgery procedure is trending, does not mean that it is necessarily right for your aesthetic goals. To best choose the procedures that will help you achieve your desired look, it it always important to seek out the advice of a board-certified plastic surgeon such as Dr. Homas or Dr. Brostrom. However, it can always be fun to see what procedures are trending as times change. Read on for the top five trending plastic surgery procedures on TikTok.

1. Non-Surgical Jawline Contouring

Jawline contouring is the number one trending plastic surgery procedure on TikTok. This non-surgical procedure involves injecting a dermal filler such as Restylane Lyft into the jawline area. The filler will give the jawline structure, creating a clear separation between the face and neck for a streamlined appearance.

2. Liposuction

Liposuction is a popular procedure to help eliminate stubborn pockets of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise. During the procedure, small incisions are created in the treatment area, and a hollow tube called a cannula is inserted to break up excess fat. The loose fat is then suctioned out of the body for a slimmer, more contoured look.

3. Rhinoplasty

Individuals who are bothered by the look of their nose can often benefit from a rhinoplasty. This procedure can improve the overall proportions of your face by addressing the width, size, profile, and tip of the nose.

4. Breast Augmentation

Women who were born with smaller breasts, or have breasts that have changed in size due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, or aging often opt for a breast augmentation. This procedure is ideal for adding more fullness to the breasts, improving size and overall shape using implants. Patients can choose from saline or silicone breast implants based on their individual preference.

5. Tummy Tuck

Those who are tired of living with a stubborn belly pooch due to weight loss, pregnancy, or aging can benefit from a tummy tuck procedure. During a tummy tuck, excess fat and skin is removed, and weakened abdominal muscles tightened to achieve a flatter stomach area. This can result in a major boost in self-confidence for patients.

Schedule a Consultation

If you are interested in learning about the many plastic surgery and aesthetic treatments offered at New Image Plastic Surgery, contact our San Antonio, TX office today. Your first step will be to schedule a consultation appointment with Dr. Homas or Dr. Brostrom.

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One of the most common goals people have when they go to their dermatologist or plastic surgeon is to enhance their natural features. But what type of areas should you be looking for?

Best Areas to Enhance Your Natural Features:

1. Reverse Sagging Eyes

The first place people would think of when they think about enhancing their natural features is the eyes. The eyes are incredibly delicate, and if they are not taken care of, they can quickly start to sag, requiring surgery later on to correct the damage that has already been done. As we age, the skin around our eyes begins to lose elasticity. It is a normal part of aging that on with the proper care and products. Sagging skin is something you want to avoid at all costs because it can make seeing difficult and thus dangerous.

2. Reduce Fine Lines


Another common area people want to enhance is the fine lines around their mouth. These lines can make you look older and drag your face down. Fortunately, there is an easy way to get rid of these—and they are called dermal fillers. Dermal fillers are made of hyaluronic acid and are injected into the skin, typically through a small needle. The main goal of dermal fillers is to replace the volume in the skin, effectively filling in those deep lines that give you a tired and aged look.

3. Reshape Your Nose

Yet another common area people want to fix is their noses. As we age, the nose may start to appear larger and can be a source of insecurity for some. Choosing to enhance your natural features with a rhinoplasty can give you the features you desire. However, dermal fillers can also be used without having to go under the knife. A rhinoplasty requires a general anesthetic and can take hours, whereas dermal fillers are more temporary and are applied in just minutes at the office.

4. Build up the Jaw

The jaw is the frame of your face. A weak or too-narrow jaw can make your face look long and thin, making you look years older than you actually are. One can apply a dermal filler to the chin or jawline to give you a more desirable shape. It would help if you considered that this is not a procedure you want to do every year, but once every couple of years.

5. Reduce Facial Scars

People have a hard time living with scars, especially facial or acne scars. If they are in a visible area of your face, it can be tough to live with them, and you may not feel like yourself. Secret PRO, a skin revitalization treatment, can help reduce these scars and make them less noticeable. There are many different areas of your body that you can enhance to make you feel good about yourself and look fantastic. Knowing the available options will allow you to accomplish what you want without going under the knife.

New Image Plastic Surgery in San Antonio, TX, is a leading provider of dermal fillers and your plastic surgery needs. They provide practical, reliable, and complete solutions to your aesthetic needs. They are highly qualified in dermal fillers and care deeply about their patients’ comfort, health, and recovery. Set up a consultation today and find out how they can help you become happier with your appearance.

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When many people think about who gets plastic surgery, they imagine older adults looking to reverse aging. One significant demographic that pursues plastic surgery, however, is teenagers. Teenagers getting plastic surgery can be controversial, but it might surprise you that board-certified plastic surgeons can and do operate on teenagers regularly. Any experienced plastic surgeon will approach adult patients with thoughtfulness and ethics, and teenagers even more so. Plastic surgery for teenagers is an option but simply requires a different approach. Here’s what to know about it and what your teen can expect during a consultation.

Why Do Teenagers Get Plastic Surgery?

Teens generally get plastic surgery for different reasons than adults. For adults, plastic surgery is a way to make their appearance more reflective of their youthfulness and energy. Additionally, many adults pursue plastic surgery to get rid of flaws or the impact of life events like weight loss or pregnancy. On the other hand, teens tend to pursue plastic surgery to get rid of genetic abnormalities or features that set them apart from their peers. Plastic surgery can give teens greater confidence during a time when it can be incredibly hard to feel like they belong. In these cases, plastic surgery can set teens up for better success in life because they don’t need to worry about negative attention.

Is Plastic Surgery Right for My Teen?

Even if your teenager technically qualifies for plastic surgery, it may not be the right solution (or the right time). Teenagers should still have realistic expectations for their procedure and the right reasons for going through with it. Plastic surgery won’t make your teen look like someone else – rather it will make them look like the best version of themselves. Your teen also shouldn’t pursue plastic surgery for popularity or because they feel pressured by social media or those around them. Make sure to have an open and honest discussion with your teen about their reasons for getting plastic surgery – your plastic surgeon will also ask at length during a consultation. Your teen should feel heard and understood when it comes to their reasoning – if plastic surgery isn’t the solution for your teen, then you should help them explore other options.

It’s also important to determine whether it’s the right time for your teen to have plastic surgery. Most plastic surgery procedures require that your teen be done growing since further development can change their results and require another procedure. There may also be age limits on certain procedures according to your plastic surgeon’s discretion. Finally, most procedures require significant downtime so your teen will need to be able to take time away from school, work, or activities.

What are the Most Common Plastic Surgery Procedures For Teens?

There are some plastic surgery procedures that are more common for teens. These include:

Rhinoplasty

Sometimes known as a nose job or nose reshaping, rhinoplasty is one of the most common options for teenagers. It can correct nose abnormalities like a nose that’s too large, crooked, or hooked. It can also correct injuries or genetic defects that cause difficulty breathing like a deviated septum.

Chin augmentation

Chin augmentation can be a good option for teenagers who have a weak chin that does not balance the rest of the facial profile. Teenagers who have issues with their bites may also need to consult a dentist or orthognathic surgeon.

Breast asymmetry

It’s normal to have slight breast asymmetry, but plastic surgery can correct noticeable asymmetry that makes it difficult to shop for clothing, for example. The solution is typically a single implant to make the smaller breast larger, or a breast reduction to make the larger breast smaller.

Breast reduction

Breast reduction can be a good option for teenagers who have unusually large breasts that cause symptoms like pain, breathing difficulties, rash, or problems exercising. It’s also common for teens to receive negative attention for their large breasts, causing emotional distress. Although your teen may need an additional procedure in the future as their breasts continue to grow, it can still help alleviate symptoms and allow them a more active lifestyle.

Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia, or enlarged male breasts, is a common occurrence for boys going through puberty. In most cases, gynecomastia subsides as hormone levels become stable. However, it’s possible for teens to have male breasts into adulthood and face ridicule for them. Gynecomastia surgery can achieve a flatter chest and allow teens to be more comfortable at the beach or pool.

Schedule a Consultation

Pursuing plastic surgery for your teen begins with consulting a board-certified plastic surgeon. To get started, contact New Image Plastic Surgery in San Antonio by calling or filling out our online form.

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