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Debunking Common Plastic Surgery Myths

Debunking Common Plastic Surgery Myths

Apr 27, 2019 | Dermal Filler, Non-Surgical, Uncategorized

According to 2017 annual plastic surgery procedural statistics, over 17.5 million cosmetic plastic surgery procedures were performed in the US.

For many individuals, plastic surgery offers a way to turn back the sands of time, improving both the way they look and feel.

Non-invasive procedures such as dermal fillers and laser treatments have grown in popularity, and even traditionally invasive procedures are now less invasive with developments in technology, contributing to their growth in demand.

Plastic and reconstructive surgery are a popular area of discussion. With new levels of interest in these techniques, it is important to do research into who will be operating on you. If you are considering plastic surgery, it is necessary to first debunk a few common myths, leaving you prepared for your future appointment.

Invest in Yourself

Whether you need medically necessary reconstructive surgery or a cosmetic boost in confidence, plastic surgery can help. When making this decision, however, it is important to seek out a certified surgeon with the experience and satisfied clientele to back up their claims. You only get one body, so make sure to take good care of yours by fully researching any decisions.

Myth #1 – Every Cosmetic Surgeon is A ‘Real’ Plastic Surgeon

Having a valid medical license is all that is required to allow a physician to call themselves a plastic surgeon. It is essential to research any plastic surgeon before allowing them to operate on you. Cosmetic surgery and plastic surgery do have differences.

Dr. Jim Brantner is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery to perform many different procedures. When you trust him with your surgery, you are in good hands.

Myth #2 – All Certifications Are Equal

The American Board of Plastic Surgery, or ABPS, certification is what you need to look for when considering who will perform your surgery. Attaining this certification requires 6 to 9 years of training, followed by an extensive written and oral examination.

Other certifications may not be as extensive, meaning that you may be at risk. Take care when selecting your surgeon.

Myth #3 – Procedures Are Always Done in Accredited Facilities

Non-certified plastic surgeons do not have to operate in accredited facilities. Plastic surgery is still surgery, so it is important to be operated on in a place where your health is being protected.

Besides working out of a few hospitals, Dr. Brantner also has an in-house facility. The East Tennessee Ambulatory Surgery Center offers the best in modern technology for those who need a 23 hour stay or less. Other facilities include:

 

  • Johnson City Medical Center
  • Franklin Woods Community Hospital

 

No matter the procedure, Dr. Brantner will do whatever it takes to make sure your health is put first.

Myth #4 – Questioning your Surgeon is Rude

This is your body and surgery is a serious procedure that is both expensive and comes with a certain level of risk. Any plastic surgeon who truly cares about the work they do will never hesitate to answer your questions, make sure you are informed about any risks, and showcase results from their past work.

Dr. Jim Brantner is ready to answer any question you may have regarding your procedure. Knowledge is key to understanding how the body works and how to best recover from surgery.

Myth #5 – Plastic Surgery is Only for the Rich and Famous

Decades ago plastic surgery was a “luxury” confined to those with the levels of income necessary to subsidize procedures. However, plastic surgery and cosmetic techniques have come a long way since then, and are both socially and economically viable options for anyone from any walk of life or level of income.

And you don’t usually need to pay upfront. Many providers offer in-house financing options with favorable terms to help you achieve your goals without putting you or your family into financial hardship.

Myth #6 – Only Women Have Plastic Surgery

Untrue. Men are just as self-conscious about their appearance as are women (even though they may openly talk about it less than their female counterparts).

Every year more men are turning more to plastic surgery to achieve a youthful and fit appearance.

Myth #7 – A Good Plastic Surgery Job Will Not Leave Scars

Any type of “invasive” surgery that requires incisions will result in some kind of scarring. However, skilled plastic surgeons and the latest techniques and technology have come a long way in greatly minimizing scarring.

If you have concerns be sure to discuss them with your surgeon.

Myth #8 – Plastic Surgery Lasts Forever

While plastic surgery is designed to provide long-term, nothing lasts forever. A number of factors will determine how long your surgical results will prevail. Healthy lifestyle habits such as staying away from smoking and alcohol, as well as a balanced diet, good sleep habits and regular exercise can all help.

Hire the Right Professional for Your Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery

At Jim Brantner Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, we treat you with dignity and respect. The decision to have plastic surgery can be a very personal one, and we would love to answer any questions you may have about the process.

Dr. Jim Brantner is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and specializes in plastic and reconstructive surgery. With both military and civilian experience, Dr. Jim Brantner is able to serve a variety of needs.

How Nicotine Sabotages Plastic Surgery

How Nicotine Sabotages Plastic Surgery

Apr 23, 2019 | Uncategorized

It is important to take care of our bodies, from general health and well-being to recovery from plastic surgery, the lifestyle choices you make daily have a real and measurable impact.

One substance that has been proven to have negative effects on the body is nicotine. This negative implication extends to plastic surgery and healing/recovery.

If you are considering cosmetic surgery and routinely use nicotine, it is time to consider the effects this drug has on sabotaging recovery and desirable outcomes. The last thing you want is to invest time, money and recovery on a procedure that delivers sub-optimal results simply because you opted to continue use of nicotine afterwards.

Quitting Cigarettes Might Not be Enough

It is important to quit smoking for many reasons, but in this case, nicotine substitutes may be just as bad.

In order to avoid sabotaging your surgery, you must also avoid:

 

  • Nicotine patches
  • Chewing tobacco
  • Cigars and Pipes
  • Snuff
  • Nicotine gum
  • E-cigarettes
  • And other nicotine products.

The Difference Between Surgery and Plastic Surgery

Operations involving medically necessary surgery are different from plastic or cosmetic surgery. Traditional surgical operations often involve deep incisions or operations that work on the “inside” of your body versus those parts that impact outward appearance.

For example, liposuction impacts the outer skin and tissues directly beneath (i.e. adipose/fat). S

How Nicotine Affects Blood Vessels

Nicotine deprives skin and other tissues from critical blood supply. As a vasoconstrictor, this drug narrows blood vessels and reduces optimal and healthy blood circulation.

This reduction in circulation can result in:

  • Longer healing and recovery times
  • Increased or more visible scarring
  • Tissue death
  • And in severe cases, gangrene

Other Nicotine-Related Issues

The blood vessels are not the only issue that can arise from nicotine use. Other possible issues brought on by or contributed to by the use of nicotine include:

 

  • Infection
  • Loss of skin the area the surgery was performed
  • Delayed wound healing
  • Fat necrosis – or the killing of fat cells that results in hard lumps
  • Blood clots – which can sometimes be fatal
  • Noticeable scarring – which can be thicker and wider than usual
  • Loss of breast implants
  • Increased pain
  • Life-threatening complications, such as a heart attack or stroke, pneumonia, or blood clots
  • Permanent small vessel damage that can last even if you decide to quit nicotine

This list shows just how dangerous it can be to continue to use nicotine when undergoing plastic surgery.

Guidelines for Quitting Nicotine

When considering plastic surgery, you should generally stop using nicotine for three to six weeks before your surgery, as well as for a period of three to six weeks after. Discuss any concerns you have with your plastic surgeon and make sure they are aware of your nicotine use so that they can advise you based on your unique situation. Ideally, you’ll want to quit nicotine indefinitely, but at a minimum following your doctor’s orders is critical.

There are many resources available to help when trying to quit using nicotine. Support groups, meditation, and other distractions often help when attempting to quit. Getting through the first few days is crucial, as that is when withdrawal symptoms are often felt.

 

  • You will experience physical and mental withdrawal. Your body expects to receive a certain amount of nicotine each day, and it will basically throw a fit when this does not happen.
  • How you handle your emotions, how you relax, and how you stay alert will all change without the influence of nicotine.
  • You may experience depression, irritability, anxiety, restlessness, and nicotine cravings. Sleep and appetite may also be affected, and you may gain weight.
  • This will last between a week and a month, so seeking help for getting through this period is crucial.

Trusting Your Procedure to the Right Doctor

Dr. Jim Brantner is an ABPS certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon with both military and civilian expertise. Once you have kicked that nicotine habit, Dr. Brantner and his staff will help you achieve the look you want through quality surgery at state-of-the-art facilities.

Dr. Brantner works with a number of hospitals, as well as out of a modern facility designed for those who need a 23-hour stay or less post-operation. For expert advice and a steady hand, look no further than Dr. Brantner and his staff.

Kicking Nicotine – you can do this!

You are a strong individual, and you can choose to quit nicotine. Not only will it help your plastic surgery process, but you will experience a variety of health benefits. You will get sick less, that smoker’s cough will go away, and you will increase your life expectancy.

Everyone struggles when quitting. Don’t get discouraged. You can do it!

5 Questions to Ask your Vaginal Rejuvenation Consultant

5 Questions to Ask your Vaginal Rejuvenation Consultant

Apr 19, 2019 | Non-Surgical, Therimiva Vaginal Tightening, Uncategorized, Vaginal Enhancement

For residents of the Tri-Cities (Johnson City, Kingsport, Bristol, and Elizabethton) Tennessee, vaginal rejuvenation is a lesser discussed, yet helpful treatment for many women living with discomfort, pain or in need of aesthetic or functional improvement.

Our Bodies Change Over Time – and that’s ok

It’s a perfectly natural process for a woman’s body to change over time. Whether from aging, childbirth or other factors, these changes can be both unsightly as well as uncomfortable, and in some cases even painful.

Luckily, modern medicine and the advent of vaginal cosmetic procedures have made it possible for women just like you to roll back the sands of time and rejuvenate their vaginas, brining them back to their former look and feel.

Surgical and Non-Surgical Options for Tri-Cities residents of: Johnson City, Kingsport, Bristol, and Elizabethton

These procedures, both surgical and non-surgical are known collectively as “Vaginal Rejuvenation” procedures, and provide women with a way to improve their self-esteem, enhance their sexual satisfaction and comfortability, and alleviate pain and discomfort.

Potential Benefits for Tri-Cities, TN residents

While benefits of the different types of procedures vary slightly, they most effectively address the dual purpose of tightening the vaginal canal and reshaping the outer vulva.

Questions to Ask your Vaginal Rejuvenation Consultant

If you’re considering vaginal rejuvenation procedures, read on to learn more about the top five questions you should ask your medical practitioner prior to the procedure.

Question 1: Am I A Good Candidate for Vaginal Rejuvenation?

Thanks to recent advances in vaginal rejuvenation technology, the majority of women are good candidates for a procedure of some type, though more risks and greater recovery time are associated with those procedures which are more invasive.

However, not everyone is a good fit, and you’ll want to consult with your vaginal rejuvenation surgeon to find out for sure. For example, while non-surgical procedures are generally considered an option for a wider range of women, those women with “a pacemaker or an automatic implantable cardioverty/defibrillator (AICD)” are less likely to be candidates.

Each case is different, and the risks and benefits of each type of procedure should be discussed with your vaginal rejuvenation consultant and your plastic surgeon. The degree of vaginal laxity plays a large part in deciding whether or not to take a surgical route for many women. Those women with only a minor degree of vaginal laxity can expect the desired results from a non-surgical procedure, such as radiofrequency vaginal rejuvenation or laser vaginal rejuvenation.

Question 2: How Long Will Recovery Take?

Non-surgical procedures such as radiofrequency vaginal rejuvenation, sometimes known by brand names such as Geneveve, or laser vaginal rejuvenation, typically require minimal downtime after the procedure, while surgical options may require 2-5 days of downtime.

Women who suspect they may need a more invasive procedure, such as surgery, should plan ahead to take time off work or arrange for childcare well in advance of the procedure. Those women who follow a healthy diet and exercise plan and generally follow a healthy lifestyle will commonly experience shorter and easier recovery periods.

Your plastic surgeon will be able to recommend any lifestyle changes which might make the recovery process easier.

Question 3: What is the Process for the Procedure?

The process for a surgical procedure, such as a labiaplasty or vaginoplasty, will be somewhat different than a non-surgical procedure such as radiofrequency vaginal rejuvenation or laser vaginal rejuvenation, due to the more invasive process of a surgery.

Most surgical vaginal rejuvenation procedures can be performed in under an hour in the operating room, according to Real Self of Seattle, but will require advance preparation at the hospital and some recovery time at the hospital afterward before returning home to bedrest.

Non-surgical vaginal rejuvenation requires almost no advance prep, and no recovery time in the office after the 30-minute procedure is finished. However, your vaginal rejuvenation consultant and your plastic surgeon will be able to explain the process in detail prior to the start of the procedure and help quell any anxiety you might be feeling.

Question 4: What Risks Should I Be Aware Of?

While scientific advances in vaginal rejuvenation procedures have made both surgical and non-surgical procedures safer and easier than ever, any medical procedure does carry some risk.

That said, there is typically very little downtime for these procedures, ranging from no more than 2-5 days for surgical options, and none at all for non-surgical procedures. Your plastic surgeon will discuss the specific risks to be aware of in your unique case, allowing you to make an informed choice of vaginal rejuvenation procedure.

Question 5: What Results Will I See?

Results are generally positive, but will vary depending on your unique situation, symptoms, and body. In the majority of cases women can expect benefits such as:

  • Increased self-confidence and an improved self-image
  • Greater sexual drive and satisfaction
  • Improved vaginal laxity following pregnancy, childbirth, aging, or other causes

Most women will begin to see results from a surgical procedure once healing and any associated swelling or light bruising has diminished. While some non-surgical procedures get better over time, with full benefits being realized within 2-3 months post-procedure. Your plastic surgeon will be able to describe the timeline for full benefits to reveal themselves based on your individual procedure.

Final Thoughts

Advances in vaginal rejuvenation procedures have made it possible for women of all ages and in all stages of life to regain the youthful vaginal area they desire. Thanks to a range of both surgical and non-surgical procedures, a vaginal rejuvenation option exists for almost every woman’s circumstances and preferences.

If you’re ready to learn more about the procedures and are interested in finding out if you’re a good candidate, contact Jim Brantner, M.D., your local Tri-Cities plastic and reconstructive surgery professional. His friendly team is ready to help.

Who Can Benefit from a Mommy Makeover?

Who Can Benefit from a Mommy Makeover?

Apr 15, 2019 | Injectable Fillers, Mommy Makeover, Non-Surgical, SculpSure®, Therimiva Vaginal Tightening, Uncategorized, Vaginal Enhancement

There are few occurrences that cause more strain on a woman’s body than parenting. From the initial physiological stress of pregnancy to the trauma of childbirth and following endless late nights and long days that come with motherhood. While being a mother is one of the most rewarding experiences on earth, many women end up feeling, and looking, at least a little worse for wear due to it.

Thankfully, the Mommy Makeover is here to save the day. Dr. Jim Brantner and his team of friendly medical professionals has helped countless local Tri-City, TN area residents of Johnson City, Kingsport, Bristol, and Elizabethton look and feel better.

A mommy makeover involves a combination of surgical or non-surgical procedures that allows women who want to go back to looking their best, regain their youthful appearance, shape and feel. While the combination of procedures can be customized to suit your unique needs, there are some general facts to consider when choosing whether to undergo a Mommy Makeover.

Who can Benefit from a Mommy Makeover?

The “multi-procedure” Mommy Makeover, which involves some combination of liposuction, tummy tuck and breast lift was originally made popular on reality tv and social media, but now is available in the Tri-City, TN area, where residents of Johnson City, Kingsport, Bristol, and Elizabethton can enjoy all the benefits this treatment has to offer.

A mommy makeover can be tailored and customized to help treat any number of aesthetic and other issues faced by women, including but not limited to:

  • Weight gain from causes such as pregnancy, stress or decreased self-care
  • Increased excess skin from a cycle of weight gains and losses, or from stretching during pregnancy
  • Stretch marks and skin that doesn’t “bounce back” like it used to
  • Weakness, loss of structure and general distortion of shape in the abdominal muscles and belly area
  • Increased breast sagging
  • Wrinkles or loss of elasticity and vibrancy of skin
  • Cellulite
  • Vaginal appearance, discomfort or looseness
  • And more…

Every woman wants to look and feel tight, toned, and sleek, not sagging and bagging. While having children can be a wonderful time in a woman’s life, childbirth and pregnancy take a heavy toll on a woman’s skin, muscle tone and general appearance, especially in the abdominal and breast region. The combination of liposuction, tummy tuck and breast lift found in a Mommy Makeover addresses all these concerns, typically in a single session under the knife.

What is a Mommy Makeover Procedure Like?

The classic Mommy Makeover combination of liposuction, tummy tuck and breast lift is essentially a combination of surgeries. Most surgeons prefer to perform this complex procedure under general anesthesia to ensure maximum comfort and minimal memory of the event.

For a procedure like this, involving general anesthesia, the patient is required to set aside time for prep work at the hospital, in addition to recovery time in the hospital afterwards and potentially several days of recovery time at home.

Liposuction – Liposuction helps to contour the body and help it regain a sleeker, more pleasing shape by removing stubborn pockets of fat which don’t respond to diet and exercise.

Tummy Tuck – A tummy tuck removes excess skin and fat around the abdominal area, and also addresses separated or traumatized abdominal muscles to create a firmer, smoother abdominal look and shape

Breast Lift – A breast lift reduces the sagging of the breast tissue which typically follows pregnancy and breastfeeding, and is also usually combined with breast augmentation, which adds fullness to the breasts and creates a more rounded shape.

Other Procedures – A mommy makeover may also involve any other number of procedures including:

  • Sculpsure
  • Injectable fillers
  • Face, neck and brow lifts
  • Rhinoplasty / nose jobs
  • Non-surgical laser treatments
  • Vaginal rejuvenation & tightening
  • And more…

No matter what your goals, Dr. Jim Brantner can help. If you’re in the Tri-city, TN area, call or stop by his office today to learn more.

What Benefits Will I See with a Mommy Makeover?

The well-known Mommy Makeover combination of liposuction and tummy tuck addresses the sagging skin and excess fat many women pick up during pregnancy or through the stress of parenting.

The addition of a breast lift, and possibly breast augmentation creates a trifecta of image-perfecting procedures: in addition to toning, slimming and reshaping the abdominal area and removing excess fat from other areas of the body as needed via liposuction and a tummy tuck, a breast lift will also address sagging breasts and loss of shape from pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Adding a breast augmentation on top of this creates not only lifted and more youthful breasts, but also fuller, rounder ones. Together, all these procedures create a slimmer, tighter figure, plus full, rounder, perkier breasts. Look out, world, here comes a hot mama!

What are the Risks?

As with any surgical procedure, a Mommy Makeover has risks, and while most women find the risks to be well worth the gain, each individual should discuss her unique medical situation with her doctor before scheduling any surgical procedure.

Final Thoughts

While we may not be able to physically turn back time, when it comes to regaining one’s youthful shape, time travel has now been made possible. While the benefits of a Mommy Makeover might seem frivolous or self-serving, no woman can deny how much happier, more confident or more alive she feels when she knows she’s looking her best.

For the devoted mothers of the world, a Mommy Makeover might be just the thing they need to start feeling on top of their world again. Call or stop by our local Johnson City, TN office today. Our friendly team of medical professionals would love to learn more about how we can help.

Weighing Your Anesthesia Options for a Mommy Makeover

Weighing Your Anesthesia Options for a Mommy Makeover

Apr 11, 2019 | Dermal Filler, Mommy Makeover, Therimiva Vaginal Tightening, Uncategorized, Vaginal Enhancement

Motherhood can take a heavy toll on a woman’s body. All those long days and late nights caring
for your family can leave your body feeling drained and looking exhausted. While you wouldn’t
dream of trading those precious memories of your family for your youthful looks, you may wish
there was a way to get back your self-confidence and vitality without stepping into a time
machine.
Thankfully, for residents of the Tri-Cities, TN area (Johnson City, Kingsport, Bristol, and
Elizabethton), Dr. Jim Brantner has a solution: the “Mommy Makeover”.
A “Mommy Makeover” entails a combination of surgical and non-surgical procedures that help
to reduce and even erase the signs of fatigue and aging that come with parenting.
Yet for many women in the Tri-Cities, TN area, thoughts of these types of procedures often
come with a number of questions and concerns. One of the primary questions we see is
regarding the various types of anesthesia options available and what those entail.
If you’re considering a Mommy Makeover, along with your doctor, you’ll need to decide what
anesthesia option is right for you. This guide is meant to provide you with an introductory
glance into the options available, so you can come prepared to ask Dr. Jim Brantner any questions
you might have.

Your Anesthesia Options Explained

Option One: General Anesthesia

General anesthesia generally results in complete unconsciousness and prevents all feeling or memory of the procedure being performed. General anesthesia is administered by a certified anesthesia provider and can be given either intravenously or via a mask for inhalation.

No matter which method is used, the anesthesiologist will closely monitor your vital signs, including respiration and heart rate, throughout the entire surgery to ensure that breathing and other bodily processes continue as usual.

General anesthesia is the most common, and most preferred, option for surgeons performing Mommy Makeovers. While some individual procedures, such as breast augmentation or liposuction, can be carried out by some surgeons with just IV sedation with a local anesthesia, a true Mommy Makeover involves complex surgery affecting several areas of the body simultaneously, and most surgeons won’t perform such an operation without general anesthesia involved.

Option Two: IV Sedation and Local Anesthesia

Local anesthesia is usually given intravenously, and is utilized to prevent pain and discomfort during the surgery, but does not cause a complete loss of consciousness. While you will technically be awake during a procedure involving a local anesthesia, you will not feel pain or discomfort, and will likely not remember much about the procedure. This type of anesthesia also reduces pain and discomfort after surgery, just like general anesthesia, but is considered a better option for patients with certain other health conditions.

IV sedation and local anesthesia, however, can only be used to perform certain procedures, such as breast augmentation or liposuction, and most surgeons will not perform a true Mommy Makeover, involving a combination of procedures on multiple areas of the body, with anything but a General Anesthesia.

Option Three: No Anesthesia

There are some procedures during which anesthesia is unnecessary or unneeded. However, these procedures are generally limited in scope to those options which are non-invasive and less extensive.

Such unique treatments generally have very little (if any) downtime, and include those procedures such as:

A few options for those wanting an anesthesia-free Mommy Makeover Include the following:

 

  • Coolsculpting – This modern nonsurgical liposuction alternative gently reduces the appearance of tummy flab, love handles, back fat and other bumps that just won’t budge through other methods.
  • Botox and Dermal Fillers – Wrinkle reduction injectables like these help reduce the wrinkles and facial folds you may have picked up over the years, without surgery
  • Non-Surgical Vaginal Rejuvenation- Treatments like radiofrequency vaginal rejuvenation can be done in-office without anesthesia in as little as 30 minutes, with no downtime afterwards

 

 

Final Thoughts Regarding Anesthesia Options

If you’re a Tri-city, TN area resident of Johnson City, Kingsport, Bristol, or Elizabethton, and are concerned about or have questions regarding anesthesia options, reach out to Dr. Jim Brantner today.

No matter what anesthesia option is right for you, a Mommy Makeover could be just the ticket to feeling like your former vibrant, radiant self. These days, thanks to procedures like Mommy Makeovers, women really can have it all, including the jackpot combination of great kids, a wonderful family, and eternal good looks.

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