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How to Choose the Right Plastic Surgeon

10/15/2019

The first step for anyone interested in a cosmetic procedure is learning how to choose the right plastic surgeon. If you are considering elective surgery, you want to make sure you take the time and do the research needed to find the best possible surgeon. This individual will have influence over your health, well-being, and appearance, so you should settle for nothing short of the best. In addition to their technical skills, you also want to make sure you have a surgeon you can trust. You want this individual to make you feel safe, secure and confident going into the procedure.

It can be difficult to figure out who is the best surgeon for you. If you are interested in learning more about how to choose the right plastic surgeon, take a look at the 9 signs we’ve determined that mark finding the right plastic surgeon for you.

1. Someone Close to You Recommends Them

The best way to find a great plastic surgeon is through a recommendation. If you have a friend, family member, coworker or even an acquaintance that had a great experience with a local plastic surgeon, that is a great place to start. You can meet directly with this person and ask them a series of questions about their experience with their surgeon.

If nobody in your immediate network has had a positive plastic surgery experience, ask a healthcare professional, especially if you’re already seeing a specialist for something like a breathing issue or cosmetic service.

2. The Surgeon Has Excellent Reviews

The Internet is such a useful tool. With just a swipe of your finger or a click of the mouse, you can instantly explore hundreds of reviews and testimonials for any local plastic surgeon. Read through as many of these reviews as possible, taking note of the patient’s experience with the surgeon and their results following the surgery. Each patient will go about the review process differently, so make sure to read a variety of different reviews instead of just relying on one or two bad ones. Any surgeon you agree to see should have a large number of verified reviews from trusted sources, have reviews that include reviews of patients who had the procedure you are interested in having, have a score of 4.5 or greater and include comments regarding the technical outcome, the interaction with the surgeon, the surgical facility and the staff.

3. They Do Not Pressure You Into Surgery

It should be an immediate red flag if you find that the plastic surgeon and their staff are very pushy with you, using sales tactics to try to “close the deal.” While it’s normal for any office to have sales and marketing tactics to draw in potential patients, they cross the line when they try to rush you into making a decision. This is not buying a TV—it is opting for surgery. Any good surgeon should give you the time you need to make an informed decision. You are more than a potential sale, and your surgeon should be making decisions in your best interests, not in the best interest of their bank account. Choose a surgeon and staff who is focused on meeting your needs and is that clearly is concerned with your safety.

4. They Are Communicative and Polite During a Consultation

The surgical consultation is the most important part of the entire vetting process and a key component of learning how to choose the right surgeon for you. You want to go into the consultation with the mindset that you are putting the surgeon through a job interview and you should walk away from the office impressed. Come to the consultation with a list of questions you want to ask the surgeon, including questions about their experience and background, as well as specific questions regarding your procedure. Make sure the surgeon is not only answering your questions, but is also communicating with you in a relatable and down-to-earth manner. You do not want a surgeon who only speaks to you using medical jargon. Instead, you want a surgeon who will partner with you to make sure you are informed during every step of the process. You want to feel comfortable and confident.

5. The Surgeon Is Qualified to Perform Your Desired Procedure

During your consultation, you want to make sure your surgeon is qualified. They should be an American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) certified plastic surgeon, preferably with an American Society of Plastic Surgeons membership. Some “cosmetic” practitioners are not actually doctors who are certified for surgery, as their practice mainly consists of injectables and laser procedures. You are able to check if your surgeon is certified on the ABPS website (www.plasticsurgery.org), searching through an online database to find their certification.

You also want to make sure your surgeon is a specialist in your desired procedure. Many plastic surgeons specialize in one field, meaning they do not have experience or expertise in other types of surgeries. For example, a doctor who solely specializes in breast implants may not be qualified to perform eyelid surgery. It is especially important to find a qualified specialist if you are looking to undergo an uncommon surgery.

6. The Plan Is Right For Your Goals

Plastic surgery should not be a one-size-fits-all approach. Each individual is unique and has unique concerns, health issues, motivations and goals. Every plastic surgeon will have different preferences and styles in regard to their surgical approach and should be able to offer a custom solution for each patient. The plastic surgeon should be able to explain various options and explain clearly the benefits and drawbacks associated with different options. They should be able to work with you to find the solution that will serve your needs best.

7. The Staff Is Experienced and Friendly

The surgeon is not going to complete your procedure on their own. They rely on their team of dedicated employees, and you want to make sure these individuals are skilled professionals. Each and every interaction with the staff should be a positive one, and if you feel you were not treated kindly by a staff member or that they did not know what they are doing, that is a red flag to look for a plastic surgeon elsewhere.

8. The Surgical Site Is Accredited and Incredible

You need to make sure your surgery will be performed at an accredited hospital or an AAAASF-accredited surgical facility and operating room. Some surgeons will even have an on-site surgical facility, allowing patients convenient access to the operating facility. Ask if the center is dedicated to plastic surgery and if a medical doctor trained in Anesthesiology will be providing your anesthesia or if the surgeon or his nurse will have to perform this function as well.

9. It Just Feels Right

Go with your gut. The key to learning how to choose the right plastic surgeon is trusting your instincts. If you have a bond with the surgeon and immediately trust them, that can sometimes be enough to make a decision. Of course, you only want to opt for an experienced and board-certified surgeon with an outstanding reputation, but you will be developing a relationship with them as well. The most important aspect is that you are comfortable with this person and that they make you feel safe and secure.

Choose a Trusted Plastic Surgeon in Houston, Texas

If you are struggling with how to choose the right plastic surgeon for you, then we can help. Dr. Leo Lapuerta is a surgeon with an impeccable reputation, helping patients from all over the United States as well as Houston, Katy and Pearland, Texas, look their best. He is a triple-board-certified plastic surgeon, with over 20 years of experience and countless positive patient reviews and testimonials. Best of all, Dr. Lapuerta is a skilled communicator, partnering with the patient to help them reach their goals. If you are interested in learning more about Dr. Lapuerta or would like to schedule a consultation, contact us today.

Facelift Surgery: 6 Things You Need To Know

10/15/2019

Facelift surgery allows you to turn back the clock, reducing the appearance of facial wrinkles, sagging skin, and fine lines to leave you looking your best. Before any kind of surgery (cosmetic or otherwise), it is important that you understand each phase of the procedure. That means fully comprehending exactly what occurs prior to facelift surgery, during the surgery, and throughout the recovery process.

The best way to learn this information is during a consultation with a board-certified, plastic surgeon. However, if you are still unsure if a facelift is right for you and are not ready to come in for a consultation, below you can find six things you need to know if you are considering a facelift.

1. You Need to Have Realistic Expectations

The first thing to keep in mind with any cosmetic surgery is that you need to come in with realistic expectations. While facelift surgery can greatly reduce signs of aging and improve your overall appearance, the procedure cannot drastically alter your appearance to give you the ideal face and bone structure of your dreams. There are limitations to what a plastic surgeon can do, and it is vital for any potential facelift patient to understand the expected outcome for the procedure.

A great way to see what you can expect from facelift surgery is to look at the before and after pictures from other facelift patients. While the results of any cosmetic surgery will be unique for each individual, it will at least allow you to see the impact a facelift can have on an individual’s appearance. Make sure to talk with your plastic surgeon during your initial consultation about the expected results of facelift surgery in terms of the possibilities and limitations.

2. Choose a Plastic Surgeon You Trust

The most important aspect of facelift surgery is having a plastic surgeon that you trust. You are putting your health, physical appearance and safety in this individual’s hands, so make sure you are confident in their abilities. Thoroughly research each prospective plastic surgeon, by making sure they are board-certified in plastic surgery (check www.plasticsurgery.org), have significant experience performing a variety of facelift surgical techniques, have before and after pictures of their actual patients who have had a facelift surgery with the surgeon you are considering and have patients who are willing to speak with you regarding their experience. Check out the surgeon’s reviews and testimonials online, allowing you to get firsthand accounts of their skills and personality.

When you go in for a consultation, treat it like you are interviewing them for the position of being your chosen plastic surgeon. Come prepared with your questions and concerns and ask about their particular past experience addressing your unique goals. Most importantly, make sure you are comfortable with the surgeon and are able to clearly communicate with them, feel confident in their ability and feel at ease with their staff and facility.

3. Consider the Cost of a Facelift

While the cost of a facelift can vary based on the individual and their aesthetic goals, a facelift generally costs somewhere between $8,000 and $14,000+. When considering cost and options, remember this is your face you are trusting to someone. Experience and training along with your safety and comfort should be the most important factors in choosing who you place your trust with to do your surgery. The right choice is priceless and opting for a less expensive option may risk less than optimal results, the need for revision surgery, or worse, an unsafe experience. Investing in a facelift with the right surgeon for you will mean 10 to 20 years of positive benefits.

Most practices offer financing plans that include zero percent interest options. These plans allow patients to recognize their dreams at a reasonable cost with low monthly payment options.

4. The Right Age for Facelift Surgery

Most patients considering facelift surgery are in their 50s or older. Younger patients may initially benefit from less invasive skincare treatments, chemical peels, laser resurfacing or injectables like Botox and facial fillers. If you are planning on undergoing facelift surgery, you want to make sure you are choosing the very best time for the procedure. There is no age limit and no age minimum, however, patients generally see the greatest benefit between the ages of 50 to 75. Depending on a patient’s age, chemical peels, fat grafting, Botox or facial fillers may be used together with a facelift to achieve optimal results.

5. Make Sure You Are Mentally Prepared

Most often patients considering a facelift have reached the point in their life where the face they see in the mirror does not reflect the energy they have and does not portray the way they feel about themselves.

Facelifts allow patients to project their inner self-confidence to the outer world. However, in the post-operative period, patients will be swollen and bruised and won’t initially appear as the youthful self they have been hoping to see. Healing takes time and patience. Patients will immediately notice improvements and these improvements will continue day by day over the next several weeks.

6. Be Prepared for the Recovery Process

Facelift surgery requires a recovery period like all surgeries. While every patient recovers differently, in general, it will be somewhere between 10-14 days before you can return to work and resume your normal, everyday life. Most patients are able to work from home within a few days following surgery. Patients can return to exercise and full activity after 6 weeks. Patients are encouraged to keep their head elevated to support the resolution of swelling. Patients may drive if they are not taking prescription pain medication. Most patients find over the counter Tylenol is sufficient to control any discomfort as a facelift is not particularly painful. Patients should plan to have an adult stay with them for the first 24 hours following surgery.

Schedule a Facelift Surgery Consultation with Dr. Lapuerta

If you are interested in learning more about facelift surgery, you need to schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. During a consultation, you can ask the surgeon any and all questions you may have about the procedure, making it essential that you find a plastic surgeon who is able to communicate complicated information in an easy to understand way. Dr. Leo Lapuerta, a triple board-certified plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience serving patients in Houston, Katy and Pearland, Texas, has earned an excellent reputation as a surgeon who partners with patients to provide them the results they are hoping to achieve. If you are considering facelift surgery, contact Dr. Lapuerta to request a consultation today.

6 Most Popular Plastic Surgery Procedures for Women

10/15/2019

While plastic surgery has become more popular with men over the years, plastic surgery procedures for women still tend to dominate the market: Women accounted for 87% of all cosmetic plastic surgeries in the United States in 2018. Below are six of the most popular plastic surgery procedures for women.

1. Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation has been the reigning queen of procedures, so to speak. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, there were close to 314,000 breast augmentation procedures in 2018, which accounts for nearly 17.5% of all cosmetic surgeries performed in 2018. That data is for both men and women, so the percentage would be even higher when accounting only for women. Breast augmentation involves the use of saline or silicone implants to allow women to change the shape or size of their breasts, helping them restore lost volume or improve the symmetry of the breasts.

2. Liposuction

Women looking for a safe and simple way to get rid of excess fat are turning to liposuction. This surgical procedure targets problem areas in which an accumulation of fat persists despite proper diet and exercise. Liposuction is incredibly versatile, with the procedure able to target a variety of areas throughout the body. Women with unwanted bulges on or around their chin, arms, belly, hips, thighs, buttocks, or back can use liposuction to reshape their body, unveiling a thinner and more shapely figure.

3. Nose Jobs

A nose job, also known as rhinoplasty, can help women get their ideal nose. The cosmetic surgery changes the size and shape of the nose in order to make it better proportioned to the rest of the patient’s face. One of the factors that makes a nose job one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures for women is that the surgery is completely customized for every patient. During a consultation with your plastic surgeon, you will outline your ideal nose, looking through samples to point out the features that appeal to you. Possible changes include altering the tip of the nose, reshaping the bridge of the nose, adjusting the size of the nose or nostrils, and modifying the space between the upper lip and the nose.

4. Eyelid Surgery

As women age, their eyelids can begin to start drooping or they can develop puffy bags under their eyes. If this is the case, eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a popular procedure to improve the appearance of the eyes. Eyelid surgery is usually performed for cosmetic reasons, but sometimes the procedure is necessary to help patients with sagging eyelids that impair their vision. Eyelid surgery can consist of treatment to the upper eyelid, lower eyelid, or both. Most patients prefer getting both the upper and lower eyelids treated at the same time, as it allows them to get both areas addressed without the need for added recovery time.

5. Tummy Tucks

There are many plastic surgery procedures for women to help their bodies recover following pregnancy. A tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, is arguably the most popular, as it helps women get a firm, taunt, and flat belly.

Pregnancy can drastically stretch out a woman’s stomach to accommodate the child she is carrying. After giving birth, there tends to be excess fat and skin around the stomach, giving the patient the appearance of being overweight even if they are in excellent physical condition. A tummy tuck removes all of that hanging fat and skin while simultaneously stretching the muscles in the tummy. As a result, patients leave the procedure with a drastically flatter stomach. A tummy tuck is not just for post-pregnancy recovery anymore—it’s also useful for women who have recently lost a large amount of weight or have found that the skin around their tummy simply isn’t as tight as it used to be.

6. Breast Reduction

For many women, overly large breasts can be a burden. Oversized breasts can lead to a litany of health concerns, including neck pain, skeletal deformities, severe headaches, excessive sweating and severe back pain. Large breasts can also cause poor posture, giving women the appearance that they are constantly slouching. A breast reduction surgery offers these women some reprieve from constant discomfort, removing excess skin and tissue to reshape their breasts to a more manageable size. Breast reduction has one of the highest patient approval ratings of all of the plastic surgery procedures for women.

Plastic Surgery Procedures for Women with Dr. Lapuerta

There are a variety of different plastic surgery procedures for women, including but not limited to the ones mentioned above. Dr. Leo Lapuerta is an expert in all of these procedures, helping women in Houston, Katy, and Pearland, Texas, get the results they desire. While his surgical expertise is widely renowned, what truly sets Dr. Lapuerta apart is his ability to partner with patients to help make their dreams a reality. During a plastic surgery consultation, Dr. Lapuerta will get a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s goals and then devise a treatment plan that will help the patient achieve these goals. To learn more, request a consultation with Dr. Lapuerta today.

Breast Lifts vs. Breast Augmentation: What’s the Difference?

10/15/2019

When patients want to improve the appearance of their breasts, they may not know the difference between breast lifts vs. breast augmentation. Breast lifts and breast augmentation are two of the most popular cosmetic procedures, so before deciding on a breast treatment plan, it is important to understand the difference between them. Of course, your plastic surgeon will guide you toward the procedure that best fits your goals via a consultation, but let’s break down each procedure and figure out which one may be right for you.

What Is a Breast Lift?

As women age, the effects of time and gravity, as well as a loss of skin elasticity, can lead breasts to take on a sagging appearance. Breast lifts are a surgical procedure to correct sagging breasts, restoring their appearance to make them more youthful and perky. The procedure consists of the plastic surgeon making an incision in the breasts, followed by the removal of any excess fat and tissue that causes the breasts to sag. During a breast lift, the surgeon may also reposition the nipple and areola to make the breasts look as natural as possible. A breast implant may be used to help restore lost breast volume or increase breast size and may help to lift the breasts as well, reversing any adverse effects of aging. Depending on a patient’s skin and tissue quality and the desired breast size, an internal bra may be suggested as part of a breast lift. An internal bra is a biologic matrix that is placed during surgery and serves as a structural support for the patient’s own tissue and an implant.

What Is a Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation is the most popular plastic surgery procedure in the United States. Breast augmentation provides patients with bigger and more shapely breasts, reshaping them with the aid of silicone or saline implants. Breast augmentation can increase breast size, restore lost volume, and improve the symmetry between the breasts. The procedure is fairly straightforward, with the plastic surgeon making a small incision usually in the fold at the bottom of the breast and then placing a silicone or saline implant under the pectoral muscle behind the breast tissue. The exact placement of the implant and whether a silicone or saline implant is used depends on the circumstances and goals of the patient and will be decided during a consultation prior to breast augmentation surgery.

Breast Lifts vs. Breast Augmentation

There are a variety of different factors to consider when comparing breast lifts vs. breast augmentation. Below are some of the main differences between the two plastic surgery procedures.

Age of the Patient

Breast augmentation is a great option for any patient over 18. Patients must be at least 18 years old to get saline breast implants, and at least 22 years old in order to get silicone breast implants. Once the patient’s breasts have fully developed, they can opt for breast augmentation to increase the size or optimize the appearance of their breasts.

Breast lifts are usually reserved for older patients. The primary purpose of a breast lift is to restore the appropriate position of the breast and the breast size may stay the same, be reduced or can be increased by inserting a breast implant during the procedure. Outside of aging, significant sagging is usually present in patients who were pregnant or have recently lost a significant amount of weight.

The Results

When comparing breast lifts vs breast augmentation, it is important to know exactly what you want. Breast lifts do not add any size or volume to the breasts unless combined with a breast implant—it’s truly a lift to make breasts appear naturally perkier. If you want bigger breasts, or to alter the size of your breasts to make them more symmetrical or a more desirable shape, then you should probably go with breast augmentation. If for any reason you wish to reduce the size of your breasts, the size can be reduced by removing some skin and breast tissue during the breast lift surgery.

Can You Combine the Two Procedures?

If, when comparing breast lifts vs. breast augmentation, you find that both procedures are attractive to you, why not opt for both? Patients often choose to combine breast lifts with breast augmentation. For patients getting breast lifts, breast implants can actually provide extra support and help keep the breasts from drooping back down over time. That is why sometimes a plastic surgeon will actually suggest that women undergoing breast lifts also opt for breast augmentation. If the patient is primarily coming to a plastic surgeon for breast augmentation, it may be determined during the consultation process that a breast lift is also necessary in order to get the patient’s desired outcome.

The Importance of a Consultation

Choosing between breast lifts vs. breast augmentation should be a decision that is only trusted to a plastic surgeon who is board-certified and has significant experience. That is why it is essential to visit a plastic surgeon for a consultation prior to any cosmetic breast procedure. During a consultation, the surgeon will ask you questions to understand your goals, examine your breasts and look at your medical history. Once they have sufficient background information, they will partner with you to determine what specific procedure will achieve the desired goals.

Breast Lifts and Breast Augmentation with Dr. Lapuerta

Dr. Lapuerta is a triple board-certified plastic surgeon with over two decades of experience performing both breast lifts and breast augmentation. Dr. Lapuerta has an impeccable reputation for communicating openly with his patients, making sure he has an understanding of your goals and you have realistic expectations for the surgical results. Deciding between these two procedures can sometimes be complicated and Dr. Lapuerta’s extensive experience can help guide you to the right decision to achieve your final goals. If you live in Houston, Pearland, or Katy, Texas, and are interested in a breast lift, breast augmentation, or both, contact Dr. Lapuerta for a consultation today.

Why Do People Get Plastic Surgery?

10/15/2019

Plastic surgery is a very personal procedure, and with each patient comes a different set of underlying motivations that pushes them toward a specific surgery. As more people elect to get surgery every year, there have been certain trends that develop as far as their rationale

Below are some of the most common reasons for plastic surgery cited by patients. While this list is far from exhaustive, it provides a good introduction to why people get plastic surgery.

1. A Boost in Confidence and Self-Esteem

Many patients who come in for plastic surgery are looking to fix a specific problem area. Often others may not notice any particular appearance issue, but the patient is bothered by a particular feature. Usually, the patient has been bothered for a very long time about the feature and it affects their self-confidence. Concerns include a large nose or a nose with a bump, protruding ears, an issue with their breast or body size or shape that affects their appearance in clothing or seeing an image of themselves that is older than they feel. Patients find an increased sense of self-confidence that can be seen in the way they carry themselves and interact with others. Oftentimes, these patients express that this improved confidence will help them find more success romantically, in their career, and in maintaining social relationships.

2. Getting Their Body Back Post-Pregnancy

Pregnancy causes a series of drastic changes to any woman’s body, such as extreme stretching of the skin in a variety of different areas, including the belly and the breasts. After the mother is done with pregnancy and breastfeeding, one of the main reasons for plastic surgery is recapturing her pre-pregnancy body. The mommy makeover consists of several different surgical procedures to address all of the changes to the body caused by pregnancy. A mommy makeover can lift sagging breasts and restore breast volume with a breast lift, remove excess fat and skin around the belly with a tummy tuck, and address other areas of the body with liposuction or body contouring.

3. Plastic Surgery Is More Affordable Than Ever Before

In the past, plastic surgery was primarily available to the rich and famous. The average, working-class individual simply did not have the funds to pay for expensive cosmetic surgery procedures. Over the past twenty years, the price of plastic surgery has decreased and plastic surgery has become financially possible for most Americans today. Even for patients on a more limited budget, most plastic surgery practices are now able to offer many different financing options. These offer an affordable way for patients to achieve their goals with low monthly payment plans. These financing options allow for a monthly payment over a predetermined amount of time, instead of requiring the whole lump sum at the time of the procedure. Some financing options include zero percent interest when repaid over the course of a year.

4. Fighting the Effects of Aging

As individuals age, their appearance changes. Skin naturally loses volume, and factors like sun exposure and gravity take a toll on the body over time, which can lead to the development of wrinkles and fine lines. Patients seek to turn back the clock, improving their appearance without necessarily changing any of their features. Instead, they simply want to diminish the signs of aging and project to the world the energy and vitality they feel inside.Some of the most common plastic surgeries to fight the effects of aging include a facelift, neck lift, or blepharoplasty or eyelid surgery. There are also a variety of non-surgical cosmetic treatments to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while restoring youthful volume, including Botox® injections, dermal fillers, facial skin resurfacing, and much more.

5. Improvements in Technology

As with any other industry, there are constant technological innovations that make plastic surgery safer, more effective, and more reliable. In the past, patients may have been hesitant to undergo plastic surgery because they were worried about possible complications or the procedure not getting them the results they desire. Advances in surgical techniques and anesthesia have allowed most plastic surgery procedures to be safely performed in an outpatient setting. Patients are able to go home the same day of surgery and recover in the comfort of familiar surroundings.

6. Drastic Weight Loss

Drastic weight loss is one of the most popular reasons for plastic surgery. Similar to pregnancy, a big weight gain can stretch and distort the skin all over an individual’s body. When someone loses all of that weight, there can still be pockets of excess fat and loose, hanging skin that will not go away despite how well someone exercises. That is why there are a variety of options for plastic surgery after weight loss, helping patients complete their weight loss journey. After all of that hard work to lose weight, patients deserve to flaunt their new and improved body!

7. Health Benefits

One of the final reasons for plastic surgery is the number of health benefits that different surgeries can offer. In certain scenarios, plastic surgery can actually improve your overall health and wellness, beyond the increase in self-esteem and confidence. For example, Botox® can be used to treat excessive sweating, chronic migraines, and problems with TMJ. A nose job can treat a deviated septum, which can cause breathing difficulties and snoring. Breast reduction can help relieve back pain and treat disc problems. Blepharoplasty or eyelid surgery can improve a patient’s vision by removing the hood of upper eyelid skin that may be blocking their field of vision. Patients undergoing tummy tuck and liposuction often find positive changes in their appearance inspires them to make diet and exercise changes to maintain their new body. Last but not least because smoking and nicotine products impair wound healing, most plastic surgery procedures require that patients quit smoking or using a nicotine product. Once patients have ceased use of these products for 6 to 8 weeks before surgery and during their post-operative recovery, many never return to smoking or using nicotine.

Plastic Surgery in Houston, Pearland, and Katy, Texas

No matter what your reasons for plastic surgery are, Dr. Leo Lapuerta can help. Dr. Lapuerta has built a reputation as one of the best plastic surgeons in Houston, Pearland, and Katy, Texas, providing patients with unparalleled treatment and support. Dr. Lapuerta will sit down with patients during a surgical consultation and listen to their reasons for plastic surgery. Once he understands the patient’s goals, Dr. Lapuerta will partner with the patient to make sure he delivers exactly what they are looking for, creating a custom treatment plan. To learn more or to schedule a consultation, contact Dr. Lapuerta today.

The Difference Between Saline and Silicone Implants

10/15/2019

The first question to ask yourself when considering breast implants is: what are the differences between saline vs. silicone implants? Saline and silicone are the two most common types of breast implants used by plastic surgeons during breast augmentation, and both offer unique benefits. Potential breast implant patients should be educated on the benefits and potential downside of saline vs. silicone, as it can allow you to make an informed decision on which kind of breast implant is best for you. Of course, you’ll want an expert plastic surgeon with years of experience performing breast augmentation surgery to weigh in on this significant decision, but an informed patient should certainly work with a surgeon who is board-certified in plastic surgery and who will make the whole process a collaborative experience. Ultimately, knowledge is power, so get a power boost by learning the difference between saline and silicone implants.

What are Saline Breast Implants?

As you might know, saline is salt dissolved in water – saltwater. Saline implants are silicone shells filled with sterile saltwater, inserted into the silicone shell and meant to mimic the feel and appearance of a breast. This procedure allows patients to increase the size and improve the shape of their breasts. These come unfilled from the manufacturer and are filled after they are placed in the pocket created during surgery.

What are Silicone Breast Implants?

Like saline implants, silicone implants also feature a silicone shell. However, the primary difference between the two implants is that silicone breast implants are filled with silicone instead of saline. Silicone is a plastic gel, and many feel that the gel is better able to mimic the feel of natural breast tissue than saline. Silicone implants are filled with this thick and sticky gel prior to surgical insertion. These implants are sometimes referred to as “gummy bear” implants.

Saline vs. Silicone Implants

There are numerous different factors to consider when comparing saline vs. silicone implants. Below are some of the most important differences between the two types of breast implants.

Age of the Patient

For each procedure, whether saline or silicone, the minimum age requirement is different. The Food and Drug Association (FDA) FDA requires that women be at least 18 years old in order to insert saline breast implants. For silicone implants, women have to wait a bit longer, as the minimum is 22 years old.

Cost of Saline vs. Silicone

While costs can vary from surgeon to surgeon based on a variety of different factors, in general, saline implants cost less than silicone implants. However, in order to get a comprehensive understanding of the cost of the procedure, it is best to sit down for a consultation with your plastic surgeon.

Are You Naturally Thin-Chested?

If you are a woman who is naturally thin-chested or has a smaller amount of natural breast tissue, silicone implants may be a better option than saline implants for you. Saline implants can sometimes develop a slight ripple around the edges, but in many cases, the rippling will not be visible. However, in thin-chested women the rippling may become visible through the skin, making silicone a better choice.

Potential Complications of Saline vs. Silicone Implants

In general, many of the complications associated with saline and silicone implants are the same. These include the possibility of breast pain, infection, a temporary change in feeling around the breast or nipple, and the development of scar tissue that can alter the shape of the implant. However, there are a few unique complications to consider when comparing saline vs. silicone implants.

Saline implants offer no risk of silicone leakage. Instead, if saline implants are ruptured they will deflate. While this will negatively affect the shape and size of your breasts, there is no immediate danger since saline can be easily absorbed into the body with no health risks. Conversely, a silicone leak caused by a ruptured silicone implant can in some cases cause breast pain, as well as aesthetic changes such as breast thickening and changes in the shape and size of the breast. However, in the rare case that a silicone implant ruptures, you might not even notice, and a silicone defect can only be observed with imaging studies such as an ultrasound, a mammogram or an MRI.

Additionally, the risk of capsular contraction is higher with silicone implants. Capsular contraction results from your body’s natural immune response but results in a hardening of the implant area and often affects the appearance of the implant. It may also cause discomfort in some patients.

Breast Implant Manufacturers

Many breast implant manufacturers offer both saline and silicone breast implants. For example, MENTOR® is a noted manufacturer of both saline and silicone breast implants. However, there are some companies that offer different branding for saline vs. silicone breast implants. Allergan, a well-known cosmetic manufacturer, branded their saline breast implant as Natrelle®, while their silicone offering is known as Natrelle® Gel. Another branded option is Sientra, which has a silicone implant that is known simply as “Silicone Gel Breast Implants”. Sientra brand implants are only available through board-certified plastic surgeons. Dr. Lapuerta uses Mentor and Sientra brand implants exclusively.

Consult With Your Surgeon on Saline vs. Silicone Implants

This is not a decision you should make alone. During your consultation prior to surgery, you should partner with your plastic surgeon to help determine the best implant for your specific circumstances. This is why it is essential to find a respected plastic surgeon who excels at connecting and communicating with patients, with their best interests in mind.

Saline and Silicone Breast Implants With Dr. Leo Lapuerta

Dr. Leo Lapuerta can help you make an informed decision between saline vs. silicone implants. Dr. Lapuerta has a reputation around Katy, Pearland, and Houston for truly partnering with the patient, listening to their needs and doing everything possible to help them reach their goals. If you live in or near any of these locations in Texas, contact Dr. Lapuerta to request a breast implant consultation today.

A Guide to Plastic Surgery After Weight Loss

08/28/2019

Plastic surgery after losing weight is oftentimes an important part of a full-body transformation. If you have recently lost a large amount of weight, you may find that your body is unable to adjust to your new leaner self. Substantial weight loss is often accompanied by bundles of excess skin and fatty tissue that unfortunately hides your amazing weight loss and new figure from the world. Plastic surgery after losing weight allows you to reshape your body, using a few key procedures to optimize your appearance. If you have recently lost a significant amount of weight, check out this guide to plastic surgery after weight loss to decide which treatments are best for you.

Body Contouring

Body contouring, also referred to as a body lift or body sculpting, is the most common choice for patients opting for plastic surgery after losing weight. If you have recently lost a lot of weight or are a new mom, body contouring consists of a number of different tightening procedures, all performed simultaneously, that can result in a dramatically improved appearance. The goal of the surgery is to remove excess skin and fat from a number of different areas of the body, including arms, breasts, abdomen, neck, hips, knees, thighs, or buttocks.

Body contouring can address any area of the body that does not look normal after losing weight. During a consultation, your plastic surgeon will assess which areas need attention, and develop a body contouring plan accordingly. The surgery consists of making several incisions on problem areas throughout the body and then removing any excess skin and fat. Body contouring also tightens muscles in select regions of the body. While there will be some scarring following the procedure, a skilled plastic surgeon will do everything possible to minimize the appearance of the scars.

Recovery can be a bit intense because of the different areas of the body that are operated on, but the results make it worth it. If you are not interested in a procedure as comprehensive as a body lift, then below are some components of a body lift you can opt for individually instead of getting all of it done at once.

Tummy Tuck

The tummy is an area of the body that carries the most fat in overweight individuals, tending to stretch the skin in that area in order to contain a protruding gut. If you lose a lot of weight, a good amount of it will come from the abdomen, and all of that stretched-out skin has nowhere to go. A tummy tuck is an amazing procedure to address that accumulation of excess skin, allowing you to remove hanging and drooping skin around the midsection. A skilled plastic surgeon makes an incision from hip bone to hip bone, removes any excess skin and fat, and then pulls the abdominal muscles so that they are tightly secured. The result is a trim, tight, and toned tummy. The incision in this surgery is strategically made so that it will be hidden by most clothing and undergarments, allowing you to flaunt your new tummy in a swimsuit.

Brazilian Butt Lift

While the positives of weight loss undeniably outweigh the negatives, that does not mean that there are not some small sacrifices. Some areas of your body may lose their youthful volume, and this is especially true for the buttocks following weight loss. The butt can become deflated and look flat after weight loss, making the Brazilian butt lift a great option for plastic surgery after losing weight. During the procedure, fat is removed from another area of the body using liposuction, refined, and then injected back into the buttocks. If patients do not have the necessary fat elsewhere on the body, implants can be used instead. This results in a plumper, firmer, and rounder buttocks.

Breast Lift

The same issues beguiling the buttocks after weight loss can also affect the breasts. The skin around the breasts has been stretched and expanded as you gained weight, which causes it to lose some of its elasticity. When you lose weight, you lose fat in your breasts, which may cause your breasts to sag and look flat. A breast lift aims to fix any drooping or sagging, removing excess skin and tissue as well as repositioning the areola for a natural placement. If needed (or desired), your plastic surgeon can also place breast implants during a breast lift to help shape your breasts or increase their size. As a result, you can recapture the more youthful and perkier breasts of your youth after weight loss.

Arm Lift

Unlike a lot of other areas on this list, it can be tough to hide sagging arm skin after drastic weight loss. Depending on where you live, wearing long-sleeves during the summer is simply not plausible. An arm lift surgery can give you shapelier and thinner arms, allowing you to proudly sport tank tops all summer long. The arm lift is a great plastic surgery after weight loss option, as the discreet surgery consists of an incision on the inner arm. From this incision, excess fat is removed and loose skin is trimmed away, leaving you with thinner and smaller arms.

Thigh Lift

Weight loss hits the thighs hard. The thighs are an area that seems to be especially susceptible to loose skin and excessive wrinkling following weight loss, making a thigh lift a preferred option for many individuals. Not only does a thigh lift surgery remove all excess skin and fat, but it also works to reshape the outward appearance of your thighs. The goal is to get the thighs to look smoother, tighter, and more shapely, helping you to regain the beautiful curves of your body. In some cases, liposuction will be used to help sculpt this area to your preferred appearance.

Plastic Surgery After Losing Weight with Dr. Lapuerta

If you have recently lost a drastic amount of weight, it is time to put the finishing touches on your transformation. Plastic surgery after losing weight can reshape your appearance, helping you look younger and thinner and feel more confident than ever. Dr. Lapuerta is an expert when it comes to plastic surgery for patients who have just lost a significant amount of weight, helping them get rid of any excess fat or loose skin. In general, body contouring is the best option, but if you have one particular problem area that needs to be addressed, any of the above procedures are an excellent option. Dr. Lapuerta will meet with you during a consultation to assess your weight loss and partner with you to determine the best treatment plan moving forward. To learn more or to request a consultation, contact Dr. Lapuerta today.

18 Questions to Ask Before Getting a Tummy Tuck

08/28/2019

A tummy tuck is a truly incredible procedure. The tummy can cause more dissatisfaction and insecurity than perhaps any other part of the body, with many dreaming of that flat, toned midsection. A tummy tuck drastically changes the appearance of your belly, removing any excess fat and drooping skin, while also tightening the existing muscles in the abdomen.

It is important before any procedure to get as much information as possible. The more you know about a tummy tuck, the more prepared you are for what comes next. If you are unsure which questions to ask before getting a tummy tuck, below are 18 of the most important questions to ask your plastic surgeon.

1. Are you certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery?

Only plastic surgeons certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery have met the rigorous training requirements necessary for competence in plastic and reconstructive surgery. Before undergoing any kind of procedure, make sure to ask your surgeon if they are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, as well as asking about their other credentials like privileges to operate and admit patients to accredited local hospitals.

2. How many years of experience do you have?

You only want to trust an experienced plastic surgeon with years of experience under their belt. Studies have shown that better patient outcomes from surgery are directly related to a greater level of surgeon experience.

3. Do you operate in an accredited operating room?

Operating rooms and surgical facilities need to be accredited by a national or state accrediting agency. This is a way to make sure that all equipment and facilities are safe and using the latest technology.

4. How many tummy tuck surgeries have you performed?

A plastic surgeon could have multiple decades’ worth of experience in plastic surgery, but all of that experience is not worth much if they have never performed a tummy tuck. As further proof of their expertise, ask to look at some tummy tuck before and after pictures.

5. Am I a good candidate for a tummy tuck surgery?

Part of the initial consultation process should be a brief discussion about your medical background and goals for this procedure. Based on this information, your plastic surgeon will make a determination as to whether you are a good candidate for a tummy tuck surgery. If this topic is not broached, it is up to you to make sure your plastic surgeon addresses this potential concern.

6. Should I lose weight before my tummy tuck?

For best results, you may be asked to lose some weight before undergoing a tummy tuck. A tummy tuck is not a weight-loss procedure—it is a way to get rid of loose skin and excess fat. If you are at an unhealthy weight, other procedures may be recommended.

7. What if I plan to get pregnant in the future?

In general, patients who plan on getting pregnant in the future are advised to avoid tummy tuck surgery. While the procedure does not endanger the ability to get pregnant in the future, the results of the procedure will be quickly undone following pregnancy.

8. Is liposuction a better option?

If a patient has excess belly fat but the skin is not loose or sagging, liposuction may be a better treatment option than a tummy tuck.

9. Should I get a mini tummy tuck or full tummy tuck?

There are a few different types of tummy tucks, but the two most popular are the full tummy tuck and the mini tummy tuck. The mini tummy tuck is an altered version of the surgery that features a smaller incision and a shorter recovery time. However, the mini tummy tuck also addresses a smaller area of the abdomen and removes less excess skin and fat.

10. How will you perform my surgery?

Even if the details do not interest you, it is important to hear the plan for your tummy tuck surgery to make sure you are fully aware of exactly what the surgeon is doing. This is why it is important to find a communicative surgeon who excels in speaking to patients in a way that is relatable and easy to understand.

11. How long will the procedure take?

In general, a tummy tuck surgery should take around two hours to complete. However, each and every case is different, so ask your surgeon how long they expect the surgery to take, barring unforeseen complications. This information will also help you communicate with friends and family how long your tummy tuck will take.

12. What are the risks associated with a tummy tuck?

Every surgical procedure comes with some inherent risk. Some of the most common risks associated with the surgery include excessive bleeding, the possibility of infection, skin loss, numbness, poor scar healing, recurring discomfort, or an accumulation of fluid near the incision point. While these risks should not necessarily make you too scared to continue with the surgery, you should make sure you hear directly from the surgeon regarding all the risks associated with a tummy tuck.

13. Will there be a scar after surgery? Where will it be located? How big will it be?

A tummy tuck surgery comes with a scar. However, it is important to get as many details as possible about the scar ahead of time. Make sure to get a detailed description of the color, shape, location, and length of the scar. This is another reason why you should always try to get your hands on some before and after pictures, so you can better see and understand some of the potential results.

14. Will I be in pain or discomfort?

Pain and discomfort are bad, but unforeseen pain and discomfort are worse. Your plastic surgeon needs to give you an idea of what you will be feeling in the hours and days following the surgery and how that pain will be managed.

15. How soon can I get back on my feet?

Many surgeries require patients to be off their feet for a predetermined amount of time. Drains may be left in place after surgery, requiring patients to take it easy for one to two days. Ask your surgeon if you will need to be put on bed rest after tummy tuck surgery.

16. How soon after tummy tuck surgery can I return to work?

Generally, surgeons ask that patients take off somewhere between 10 and 14 days from work. Your surgeon will be able to confirm the recommended amount of days for recovery with a consultation and will work with you to schedule your surgery.

17. How long after surgery can I resume exercise?

The last stage in the recovery process is getting back to working out. Usually, patients are asked to avoid strenuous activity for around six weeks following surgery. Your surgeon will also be checking in with your regarding your healing process in follow-up consultations.

18. What are my options if I am not happy with the results of the surgery?

An experienced plastic surgeon should make sure all patients have realistic expectations about the results of a tummy tuck. With those realistic expectations in mind, there should still be a plan in place if you are unhappy with the results of the procedure.

Get Your Tummy Tuck Questions Answered by Dr. Lapuerta

Communication is key in all relationships, but especially so between a patient and plastic surgeon. A plastic surgeon needs to be adept at answering questions in a polite, informed, and down to earth manner. This is an area in which Dr. Lapuerta thrives, as he seeks to partner with his patients in Houston, Pearland, and Katy, Texas, to provide them with all of the information they need in order to determine the perfect treatment plan.

Dr. Lapuerta has over two decades of experience performing tummy tuck surgery and is a board-certified plastic surgeon with a flawless reputation. If you are interested in learning more, contact Dr. Lapuerta for a tummy tuck consultation today.

Are You Ready For Breast Implants?

04/19/2019

What is the surgical process for breast implants?

When it comes to bust size, you want more volume. You want your breasts to look round and full. While it is possible to create the illusion of a larger bust by wearing padded bras and clothing with padding, the only way to truly transform your body is through breast implant surgery. Before making a major decision in your life that involves altering the size and shape of your bust, it is important to understand what is involved in the surgical process for breast augmentation. You should always go into any medical procedure with your eyes wide open and any questions adequately answered.

What is the First Step in Breast Implant Surgery?

Breast implant surgery involves taking a journey from where you are right now to where you want to be as you enhance your breasts. You will need to begin with a consultation visit with your plastic surgeon in order to have your breasts evaluated, ensure that there are no health conditions that could put you at risk, and make sure that breast implant surgery is what you really want. If your plastic surgeon is in favor of performing breast implant surgery, you are going to need to determine what cup size you want to be. Review photo galleries of previous patients to get an idea of how much of an enhancement is right for you. You can also wear gel inserts in your bra that can give you a better idea of what you can expect. In addition to knowing what size you prefer for your breasts, you also need to think about what kind of implant you want. You can opt for silicone or you can go with saline. Your plastic surgeon can provide you with detailed information about each type of implant to help you to make your decision.

Prepare for Surgery

Prior to your surgery, you should not be taking any medications that include aspirin as this is a blood thinner. You should also avoid herbal supplements and smoking prior to surgery. You need to be in good health when it is time for your procedure. Be sure to inform your surgeon if you are not feeling well. Increasing your intake of vitamins can be helpful in your recovery. You should follow all recommended restrictions the day before your surgery, such as avoiding food and drinks past a certain time. You should shower and cleanse your body thoroughly prior to your procedure. It is recommended to use an antiseptic wash that will eliminate any bacteria on your skin prior to your procedure.

What is the Surgical Procedure for Breast Implants?

General anesthesia is typically used for breast implant surgery. While you are under the effects of anesthesia, your surgeon will make incisions in your breasts to insert your implants. These incisions could be made through your armpits, in the crease that runs beneath your breasts, or on the borders of your areolas. Your surgeon will discuss potential incision sites with you before your procedure in order to give you a say in which type of incision you would prefer. Once the incision has been made, your implants will be inserted into your breasts. They may be placed below or above your pectoral muscles. Your incisions will be closed and you will be sent home after you have been cleared to go in recovery.

Learn More About Breast Implant Surgery at Leo Lapuerta Plastic Surgery

Dr. Leo Lapuerta is your experienced guide in plastic surgery. If you are serious about breast augmentation surgery, Dr. Lapuerta can give you the information you need to move forward with this life-changing decision to transform your body.

Facelift Surgery Options in Houston Texas

03/20/2019

Aging is part of life and nothing to be ashamed of. Skin gets less supple and loses resilience over time. Why not just embrace this course of nature and accept it? The short answer is that we do not have to. Facelift surgery in Houston, Texas has never been safer, more effective and less obtrusive. Furthermore, it brings new confidence to patients who must navigate professional and social cultures that prize a youthful and vital appearance. Achieving this level of results requires a high amount of medical competence from an expert medical professional such as Dr. Leo Lapuerta, a popular cosmetic facelift surgeon in Houston, Texas.

The Consult

Before undergoing any surgical process like a facelift, experienced cosmetic surgeons like Dr. Lapuerta in Houston, Texas will have an initial consultation with you, to learn your goals for the surgery, medical history and current medications, and your current health profile. Discussion with your primary care physician might also be required. Then, you and Dr. Lapuerta will determine together if facelift surgery is the right solution for you. Patients should know all their options, including those that are less invasive and lower in cost.

The Procedure

A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is not a recently developed operation, though techniques are always improving. In fact, this procedure is over 100 years old. From simply stretching the skin and removing any loose remainders to the skin graft inlay technique (whereby skin is actually transplanted), this sort of surgery has become popular and more common than you might think. Present-day facelift surgery in Houston, Texas offers results that are both pronounced and subtle, as surgeons can now use advanced techniques such as rearranging and re-orienting fat and muscle in addition to skin.

The Mini Lift

A patient can opt for a mini-facelift in which the facelift surgeon, such as Houston-based Dr. Lapuerta, makes modest incisions at the hairline and over the ears. From these openings, the doctor can then lift and contract facial tissue around the cheeks, sharpening the jawline and eliminating jowls. Such a procedure is sometimes preferable when dealing with sagging skin. A facelift surgeon will determine whether local or general anesthesia is applicable for any given patient. Your facelift cosmetic surgeon will help you decide on a mini-facelift or more extensive treatment such as a standard lift.

The Standard Lift

If the facial skin is maturing at a more advanced rate, a standard facelift might be the optimal choice. More incisions are involved, including near the temples, in front of the ears, in naturally-occurring folds and behind the hairline. These additional slits allow the surgeon to manipulate more deep-seated tissue-untethering it from the skin–in order to eliminate creases, remove sagging beneath the chin and restore vibrancy to the face. Surplus skin is extracted as the remainder is spread back over the underlying muscle and connective tissue.

What About Insurance?

In most situations, facelift surgery in Houston, Texas is considered elective cosmetic surgery by medical insurance companies, and therefore is ineligible for reimbursement or direct coverage by most providers. However, Dr. Leo Lapuerta can advise patients if there are any reasons that would qualify facelift surgery as a health-related procedure. Individual insurance providers can often answer this question as well.