April 2021 - Jim Brantner MD

Top 5 Myths About Facial Rejuvenation

Apr 27, 2021 | Uncategorized

We’ve all heard of plastic surgeries and cosmetic procedures that went wrong. While in some cases this is true, most of the time these are urban legends exaggerated by pop culture. Facial rejuvenation offers many benefits to a variety of patients, young or old. Some procedures may even be medically useful. So, what are some myths associated with facial rejuvenation?

Here, we debunk the top five myths about facial rejuvenation.

1. Facial rejuvenation will instantly change my appearance

As with any medical procedure, you shouldn’t expect to see results immediately. There’s a waiting period for facial rejuvenation effects to appear. If your surgeon is skilled with years of accredited experience and exceptional outcomes, chances are your results will subtly represent your natural beauty. There’s no recovery time for facial rejuvenation treatments, such as Botox, which takes about 15-30 minutes to perform. Facial rejuvenation works its magic over time, and it can take weeks or even months to see results. The results themselves will last anywhere from 4 to 12 months, so you won’t have to revisit the doctor anytime soon.

2. Skincare products give the same results as facial rejuvenation

It’s common to see the same ingredients in over-the-counter skincare and facial rejuvenation products, but this doesn’t necessarily mean they’re doing the same thing. Since most skincare is for topical use, these ingredients aren’t injected but are instead applied directly to the skin. A good skincare regimen can promote healthy, clear skin. However, injections such as fillers offer different results since they’re being injected into the skin where the issue lies, directly altering the skin tissues in the process. Even if you regularly use these over-the-counter skincare products, they won’t provide the same facial rejuvenation results.

3. All facial rejuvenation treatments are the same

Facial rejuvenation can take different forms and make use of different techniques for a variety of purposes. For example, Botox is used to tighten muscles to reduce wrinkles and fine lines while fillers fill or remove these issues. Their ingredients and treatment plans differ, mostly depending on where and how they’re being used. These treatments are meant to target different parts of the face or various related issues. In addition, facial rejuvenation treatments such as Botox are sometimes not used for cosmetic purposes but rather for medical use. Botox can be used for patients who have chronic migraines or excessive sweating. Therefore, not only do they affect the cosmetic appearance of one’s skin differently, but they also have possible medical benefits for people suffering from certain conditions.

4. It’s obvious when someone has a facial procedure

If done correctly by an experienced and knowledgeable surgeon, your results should appear over time and in a manner that is subtle enough to avoid casual detection. Your surgeon’s job is to enhance your natural beauty and help you achieve your skincare goals, not turn you into someone you are not. Of course, botched surgeries do happen, but these are few and far between. Successful facial rejuvenation procedures should provide results in a matter of weeks or months. If you’re searching for a plastic surgeon and are concerned about your possible outcomes, research their credentials and experience, talk to them one on one, and look at their before and after photos.

5. Facial rejuvenation will stop my aging process

While halting the aging process may be ideal for some, it’s not how biology works. Everyone will age, and with that, so will their skin. However, there are techniques and procedures proven to delay the signs of aging. Facial rejuvenation, such as eye lifts, Botox, or fillers, can help diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles months after completion. While there’s no magic pill to stop aging, there are ways to help your body maintain its youth, in addition to facial rejuvenation. Taking care of yourself by avoiding smoking or heavy drinking, using a good skincare regimen, and exercising are great ways to help your body and skin stay healthy. If you’re interested in what facial rejuvenation can do for you, consult with a surgeon to review your options.

Are you thinking about facial rejuvenation? Look no further!

With our experts at Jim Branter M.D. Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery of Johnson City, TN, and the tri-state area, we’ll work with you to meet your facial rejuvenation goals. Our devoted staff is here to support you through your skincare journey every step of the way.

Give us a call today at (423) 328-9000 to discuss your facial rejuvenation needs!

Is Plastic Surgery Right for You?

Apr 16, 2021 | Therimiva Vaginal Tightening, Uncategorized, Vaginal Enhancement

Why You Should Consider Plastic Surgery

There are many reasons why men and women of all ages choose to have plastic surgery. Oftentimes, plastic surgery is a want rather than a need. The want for plastic surgery may stem from an underlying insecurity an individual has within themselves. Or maybe, they just want to fit in with a group or feel more masculine or feminine. Whatever the desire, it is an important decision to consider.

Plastic surgery gives you the option to achieve a physical look that you’ve never been able to achieve on your own. Whether you want a proportional figure, a distinguished nose, a voluptuous bust, or even a smoother face, you may want to consider plastic surgery for peace of mind and satisfaction with your body.

Common Plastic Surgery Procedures

You can get cosmetic plastic surgery on virtually any part of your body. The most common types of plastic surgery procedures include areas of the body, such as:

● Facelift
● Buttock lift
● Liposuction
● Nose reshaping
● Lip augmentation
● Microdermabrasion
● Vaginal rejuvenation
● Laser skin resurfacing
● Botox injections & fillers
● Laser treatment of leg veins
● Breast lift, augmentation, or reduction

Advantages of Plastic Surgery

Self-Confidence
When your body is finally where you want it to be, it helps boost your confidence and self-image. Looking good makes you feel good, and when you feel good, it also makes you look good. Owning your look and power gives you the confidence to achieve anything.

Improved Mental Health
When you’re more confident, it shows in your mental health. Your physical surgery has improved your mental outlook on life. Maybe you have less social anxiety and want to get out more. Positive changes in your body can affect every aspect of your life; maybe you can finally have that girls’ night with your friends or take on a challenge with your buddies.

Enhanced Physical Health
Depending on your plastic surgery, it might improve your physical health in addition to your outward appearance. For example, a rhinoplasty (reshaping of the nose) could change your breathing for the better. A breast reduction could alleviate back pain associated with the weight of having large breasts.

Personal & Professional Growth
Once you feel more attractive and confident, you have the opportunity to grow personally and professionally. You’ve learned more about yourself and what you can handle. Especially in the professional world, people will perceive you as more powerful and deserving of an opportunity. After a successful procedure, you may recognize other benefits from it that you never imagined would be possible.

Disadvantages of Plastic Surgery

Expense
Cosmetic procedures are fairly pricey. People often take out personal loans to pay for them. But if you’ve had plastic surgery on your mind for a while, it may be helpful to start saving a little money here and there. Depending on the medical facility that performs your procedure, you may be able to set up a financing program.

Health Risks
As with any surgery, there is always the chance of something going wrong. Even if the surgery is medically necessary, there is a chance for mistakes and even death to occur during or after surgery. Patients react differently to anesthesia, and your health history is also something to consider before deciding to get plastic surgery.

Unmet Expectations
Have you ever said something out loud, only to find it sounded better in your head? Plastic surgery tends to work the same way. You may have a vision of what you expect to look like after your facelift, breast enlargement, or liposuction. The doctor removes the bandages, and what you see is not what you want. For best results, talk with your doctor to make sure they understand exactly what you expect and what they can realistically deliver.

Recovery Time
After your surgery, your mobility will likely be limited for at least two or three weeks. Depending on your procedure, it may be longer. Keeping this in mind, if you really want the surgery, you’ll need to prepare to have someone at home with you for an extended period. You can’t expect to be up and back to normal the next day.

Potential Complications

● Scarring: For most cosmetic procedures, the chance of scarring is not an option. However, surgery of any kind typically results in some form of scarring. Scarring is most evident in tummy tucks.
● Infection: Doctors take the risk of infection very seriously. However, sometimes it occurs when patients ignore their postoperative care. Infections are very common in patients who undergo breast augmentation.
● Nerve damage: If you experience numbness or tingling after plastic surgery, you may have nerve damage from your procedure. Nerve damage is also very common in patients who have undergone breast augmentation. About 15% of women experience permanent nerve damage in their nipples.

Call Now to Schedule a Consultation Today – Be Confident, Feel Beautiful.

Call (423) 328-9000 or schedule your consultation online with Jim Brantner, M.D. today.
Dr. Brantner is located in Johnson City, TN. He also services the Tri-Cities region of Tennessee, including Kingsport, Johnson City, Bristol, and the surrounding smaller communities.

Choosing a Plastic Surgeon

Apr 7, 2021 | Uncategorized

Deciding to get plastic or cosmetic surgery is an exciting step toward achieving the body you’ve always wanted. So, what’s better than having a plan and doctor you trust?

Sometimes it’s tricky knowing how to choose a doctor. Here are six tips for deciding on a plastic surgeon.

Out-of-Pocket or Insurance?

Unless your procedure is fixing defects or health issues, insurance doesn’t usually cover plastic or cosmetic surgery. When you’re looking for a plastic surgeon, make sure you can afford the services you want. To be sure, you’re investing in yourself, but it’s important to be mindful of your finances. Some states, such as California, allow women to undergo a mastectomy for implants under their insurance. Check with your state to see whether you qualify for procedures such as these.

Board-Certified

We all want our primary care doctors to be educated and certified, right? Plastic surgeons are no different. It’s important to find one who’s certified with the American Board of Plastic Surgery or the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery. In the latter case, however, they must have an American Board of Plastic Surgery certification beforehand. Board certification ensures your doctor is well educated in safety and ethics. If they don’t hold any of these credentials, it’s probably best to keep searching.

Experience and Expertise

Not only is education and board certification key; the experience they have will speak volumes. When finding a surgeon, make sure the procedure you want is something in which they’re highly trained. They should have experience performing this particular procedure weekly for three to five years. This ensures your surgeon is specialized and knows what he or she is doing. When searching for a plastic surgeon, ask questions about their experience and the major surgeries they perform weekly. If the surgeon conducts the same procedure you want frequently, this is a good sign that they’ve got the expertise to perform that surgery on you.

Hospital Privileges

One of the key elements to choosing a surgeon is their hospital privileges. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, “No surgeon should perform a cosmetic procedure on you if they don’t have privileges to perform that same procedure at a reputable hospital.” This lets you know whether they’re properly trained and trusted to work in a hospital setting. Consider it a red flag if they don’t have the privilege to work in a hospital. In addition, it’s important to be close to a hospital in the rare case of an emergency.

Patient Comfort

No matter the doctor, you should feel comfortable expressing health concerns, medical history, or asking questions about several topics. This applies to plastic surgeons as well. Once you’ve narrowed down your specific needs, talk to a surgeon for their guidance and expertise. Ask yourself questions about your post-consultation comfort level. A few questions to consider:

● Did the surgeon answer all my questions?
● Do I agree with their communication style?
● Is the practice welcoming?
● Was the surgeon willing to listen to my questions and concerns?

If you answer no to any of these questions, this may not be the surgeon for you. Spend time researching and talking to multiple doctors before you make your decision to ensure you’ve found the one you’re comfortable with. Pay attention to the surgeon’s communication, credentials, and knowledge, as well as the behavior of the facility’s staff.

Getting to Know Each Other

Another component of finding the right surgeon is the desire to know you as the patient. Are they asking you questions about your health history, concerns you have, or procedure options? If not, this should also be a red flag. Getting to know each other is vital to reach the trust and comfort level needed to communicate appropriately. You want to know about their history as a surgeon, so they should equally want to know about your history as a patient.

They should be attentive, taking notes, and reciprocating your interest. If they seem uninterested in your concerns, questions, or comments regarding treatments and procedures, they may not be the doctor for you. Just like any other physician you’ll encounter, you want your voice to be heard.

Ready to Start Your Journey to Plastic Surgery?

If you’re struggling to find a plastic surgeon, you’ve come to the right place. Jim Brantner, M.D. Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, serving Johnson City, TN, and the surrounding areas, is here to help you with every step

Give us a call at (423) 328-9000 to discuss your plastic and reconstructive surgery options!