Three Post-Surgery Must-Haves

If you’ve been planning to have a plastic surgery procedure, you’re probably already looking forward to the outcome of your journey. What you may not have thought very much about is your recovery period. We understand, but, even for minimal procedures, there are things you can do to improve your chance of a good result. Here, we discuss some of the must-haves that can get you through your post-surgical recovery with more ease.

Must-Have #1 – Help

Most people who move beyond their consultation with a plastic surgeon and book a procedure will need some help after surgery. If you’re in the planning stages, do not put off the necessary arrangements. Not doing this can set the tone of your recovery as a stressful one. You should have someone who can drive you home, and do the cooking, cleaning, childcare, and pet care at least for the first day when any stressful activity can increase bruising or other problems. Additionally, you may need someone to help take care of you, depending on your procedure. Remember, everyone needs help now and then. Soon, you will be fully recovered and back to taking care of everyone else.

Must-Have #2 – Home Preparation

Home remedies are items we usually think of keeping on hand to treat minor problems. One of those is ice. Ice packs can be applied for about 20 minutes at a time to soothe swelling and soreness. It is beneficial to have two. This way, one is always ready. Another is a way to raise the head at night if you are having anything in the head or neck done or to raise the hand or foot if that is where you will have the procedure.

Must-Have #3 – Patience

The final must-have that we want to suggest is that you need to have patience as you recover from whatever you have. You may have some swelling and bruising that last for several days or weeks. Usually, these diminish a great deal within the first week after surgery. However, even mild swelling, which can linger for a few weeks, can obstruct the final results you’re so anxious to see. Be patient. Once the swelling has fully resolved, you’ll have years to enjoy your result.

Is this the year you put your cosmetic goals on the front-burner? Call (828) 526-3783 to get the ball rolling.

Being a teenager is especially hard these day. Bullying is rampant. Peer pressure to conform is daunting. Social media and Hollywood do their best to make teens feel inadequate. Some teens believe that plastic surgery will help. That it will somehow change how they view themselves and how they are viewed by the world. Definitive, empirical studies examining the long-term benefits of cosmetic surgery in teens are few to none. However, body image does tend to improve as teens mature and their bodies naturally change.

More than 236,000 cosmetic procedures were performed in 2012 on patients between 13 and 19. More than 75,000 of those involved the nose, breast lifts and augmentation, liposuction, and tummy tucks. Few studies have examined the risks for teens of these surgeries and additional research is needed for the more controversial procedures such as breast implants, liposuction, and genital plastic surgery.

Surgeries such as those to correct cleft palates and lips, and prominent noses and ears, absolutely benefit children and youth; these are not considered controversial. But the cultural phenomena of surgical makeovers and the increasing pressures on teens to conform to unrealistic standards of beauty make it increasingly difficult to agree on what constitutes “normal.”

The teenage body is a work in progress, a major concern when it comes to plastic surgery on adolescents. As some girls mature, the need for breast implants may diminish. The FDA has approved saline breast implants for women 18 and older; silicone gel breast implants were approved by the FDA in 2006, but only for women 22 and older, reflecting the FDA’s concerns regarding the risks of implants, and the ability of teens to fully comprehend the risks. Teenagers are often oblivious to the well-documented long-term health consequences of tanning, smoking and other risky behaviors, and would likely pay less attention to the risks of cosmetic surgery.

Are you the parent of a teen who is requesting a cosmetic surgical procedure? If so, call and schedule a consultation appointment with Dr. Buchanan to discuss your options: (828) 526-3783.

It seems plastic surgery has had its share of fictions that regularly cycle the internet track. If you have heard any of the ones listed, below, and wondered if they were fact or fiction, read on:

• “A Plastic Surgeon and Cosmetic Surgeon are one and the same.” A board-certified plastic surgeon has completed 3-6 years of surgical training and then 2 or more years focusing on just plastic surgery at an accredited hospital. Other physicians may have been trained to do cosmetic procedures in certain areas, like the head and neck or the eye, but the level of training is not the same. Many physicians calling themselves Cosmetic Surgeons may not even be surgeons (Dermatologists are now doing cosmetic procedures) and many (gynecologists, general surgeons) may have little or no training in many of the procedures they do.
• “Plastic surgery doesn’t leave scars.” Not true. When an incision is made and skin is cut, the result of the incision is a scar. However, highly trained plastics surgeons, such as Dr. Buchanan at the Center for Plastic Surgery, can minimize the appearance of scars with inconspicuous incision placement and very precise closure techniques.
• “Liposuction is for weight loss.” Liposuction is meant to remove localized areas of fat that don’t respond to diet and exercise. It’s not meant to be a procedure for people who are looking for a speedy, effortless weight-loss solution.
• “Breast augmentation is a one-time event.” Silicone and saline breast implants have a limited life-span – usually around 10 to 15 years, though many have lasted significantly longer. Aging can also cause previously augmented breasts to droop. If you have implants, you may find that you need a replacement procedure or a breast lift in the future.
• “Cost is the major consideration when contemplating plastic or cosmetic surgery.” With reconstructive surgery the exception, most cosmetic surgery is elective and not covered by insurance. But cost shouldn’t be your only consideration. Your expectations and goals must be realistic. Furthermore, not all surgeons are experienced or qualified, so conducting research into your procedure and your surgeon is critical. Many inexperienced surgeons and non-surgeons are now frequently offering procedures at cut rate prices. You generally get what you pay for. Many are doing procedures where sedation is used in non-accredited facilities without certified anesthesia personnel to supervise. This is also less expensive, but you are literally “taking your life in your hands.” In the state of North Carolina alone there have been a number of deaths in these facilities.

Dr. Buchanan is board-certified and highly trained in the procedures he offers. Any surgery requiring sedation or anesthesia is done in Harris OR, a fully accredited  facility with board certified anesthesiologists. Call for a consultation, today, and experience the highest level of patient care and satisfaction available: (828) 526-3783 or toll free: (877) 526-3784.

Similar to the way that you wouldn’t take your car into the McDonald’s drive-thru for an oil change, you shouldn’t get plastic surgery by anyone other than an expert. With websites that tout expertise without substantiation and offer coupons and deals for things like Botox or mini-facelifts, many people are having procedures by individuals that aren’t experts. When it comes to your body and face, it’s important that you only have procedures by the best in the business. Dr. Robert Buchanan at The Center For Plastic Surgery can substantiate his expertise. He is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, was professor of plastic surgery teaching plastic surgery residents, is nationally recognized as an expert and is trusted. Read on to learn more about the importance of choosing a real plastic surgeon and a true expert.

They Understand Not All Skin Is Created Equal

To be certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, plastic surgeons undergo the longest training of any medical or surgical specialty (only Thoracic/Cardiovascular Surgery is equivalent). It takes this time to learn the wide variety of procedures, surgical principals to allow safe performance of them, the principals of healing and how to handle the skin and deal with  all types of situations including complications. For instance, not everyone is going to react to Botox in the exact same way. Although rare, some people may suffer from an adverse reaction. Board certification in plastic surgery assures that the physician has the knowledge and experience needed to treat patients with different skin types and concerns with the best expectation that the result will be what is wanted with minimal risk of problems or complications but the ability to care for them if they occur.

They Know What Treatments Will Give You the Results You Want

Board certified plastic surgeons are trained in surgical correction of the face and body as well as the non surgical methods of improving these areas. If you go to see someone who doesn’t have the training in both, you may not have the option for what will provide the best result. Although non surgical treatments have become very popular, some things are still best treated with surgery, though that may be much less invasive than previously and, frequently, can be done in the office.  At your consultation appointment with Dr. Buchanan you can discuss your desires and what you would like to correct. He will then determine what  treatment option best solves your problem within the parameters you have set.

They Are Current On Training and New Options

With new fillers and procedures hitting the plastic surgery market throughout the year, it’s important that the surgeon you choose is familiar with all of them– that way, you get the best treatment available in the safest possible manner. Unlike a great number of physicians offering aesthetic procedures, board certified plastic surgeons are required to obtain a certain amount of very specific enhanced training about the procedures they do each and every year.

Choosing a board certified plastic surgeon may sound quite easy, but is actually much harder than it sounds. This is because many physicians fave created organizations they call a “board” and they advertise themselves as “board certified.” Only the American Board of Plastic Surgery operates under the umbrella of the American Board of Medical Specialties that oversees all legitimate resident training and subsequent testing for competency. All members of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the two major plastic surgery organizations in this country require their members to maintain certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Dr. Buchanan at The Center For Plastic Surgery is certified by theAmerican Board of Plastic Surgery and a member of both these organizations. To learn more about him and our staff or to schedule a consultation, contact The Center For Plastic Surgery today!

Are you wondering if plastic surgery would improve your self-confidence, but are timid about actually going through with it? If so, we can offer a few tips that may help as you decide. Plastic surgery doesn’t have to be scary – especially with Dr. Buchanan as your surgeon. In fact, plastic surgery can give you a healthier, younger look. Read on to learn more:

• Formulate your questions, do some research. Know your goals and your expectations. Dr. Buchanan can help guide you through the process so that you feel comfortable throughout the process. He can explain the details of whatever you are considering.
• Easy does it. Fine lines and wrinkles can be addressed with a facelift, that’s true. But you may want to begin with skin care or injectables such as Botox or Juvederm. Botox and the fillers can target all areas of the face – without the necessity of actual surgery.
• Know when to stop, because “less is usually more.” Before you meet with Dr. Buchanan for the first time, make a list of your “problem areas.” Discuss these with him. You may be able to limit potential procedures or combine them.

Dr. Buchanan is trained to understand how you feel about yourself. He recommends that you make your own decision about any procedure you are considering, whether surgical or non-surgical, and avoid being influenced by your significant other or your family or friends.

Let us put your fears to rest. We invite you to call to schedule a consultation appointment today because now is the perfect time to experience a “new” you: (828) 526-3784.

Cosmetic surgery is popular no matter the age of the patient, and, today, more seniors than ever are considering cosmetic surgery as a way to enhance they way they look – to ensure that it matches the way they feel. Cosmetic surgery for the older population is definitely trending.

One reason for this trend is that many people are choosing to postpone retirement and stay in the workforce. With that decision comes the increased pressure to look young – and stay competitive. Many older women and men are motivated to opt for cosmetic procedures to boost their self-confidence and image. Additionally, many older patients are seeking cosmetic procedures because of longer life expectancies and healthier lifestyles. Cosmetic surgery has become a common practice for all ages and all walks of life.

There are always risks with surgery, and elective surgery on older patients may bring with it additional concerns. Older patients may have medical problems such as high blood pressure and coronary artery disease that should be taken into consideration. Older patients are also more likely to be on medications that could impact the outcome of their procedure.

Cosmetic surgery is a matter of choice – and you are in the driver’s seat. Be sure your doctor is aware of any health and medical factors that could increase your risk for complications or affect the results of the procedure you choose. Forehead lifts and breast lifts are popular, along with face lifts, liposuction of the neck and eyelid surgery. These procedures may also be combined. At the Center for Plastic Surgery, Dr. Buchanan offers many cosmetic surgery options for seniors. He carefully screens each patient to ensure optimum results.

It isn’t too late to consider cosmetic surgery. Call to schedule a consultation appointment, today. It’s time to bring on your best, most confident self: (828) 526-3783.

Purple violets and sunny yellow daffodils are poking their heads above ground as the harbingers of spring weather, and that means the sunny days of summer are not far behind. Vacations to the beach or days at the pool call to you to look your best. Spring is the perfect time to consider the enhancements of cosmetic surgery. Here are a few of the procedures we offer at The Center for Plastic Surgery…designed to help you look your best this summer:

• Try Liposuction. Struggling with stubborn fat that doesn’t respond to traditional exercise and weight loss methods can be frustrating, at best. Liposuction provides a minimally-invasive solution. Liposuction works to suction out areas of unwanted fat from areas of the body such as the abdomen, thighs and hips, helping our patients achieve a slimmer silhouette just in time for summer.
• Lift Your Breasts. Aging, weight loss, gravity and pregnancy can cause breasts to sag and droop. A breast lift is designed to combat this drooping and restore a more youthful breast contour for our patients.
• Enlarge Your Breasts. Our patients who are unhappy with the size or shape of their breasts find that a breast augmentation is a great option. This customized procedure – utilizing saline or silicone implants – can increase the size of small or uneven breasts.
• Reduce Your Breasts. Overly large breasts are not only a cosmetic concern but a medical concern, as well. Chronic back pain and poor posture prompt many of our patients to request breast reduction surgery. This surgery reduces glandular tissue and fat from the breasts while tightening the breast skin, helping our patients achieve a more comfortable and physically appealing contour.
• Reduce Your Tummy. An abdominoplasty removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen, helping our patients achieve a smooth, flat and toned stomach. It’s important to remember that a tummy tuck is not a weight loss procedure. However, it can address a tummy that is drooping as a result of pregnancy, the aging process, prior surgery or a major fluctuation in weight.

Want to learn more about these or the additional body enhancing procedures we offer? Call to book a consultation appointment, today: (828) 526-3783 or toll-free (877) 526-3784.

The decision to undergo a plastic or cosmetic surgical procedure is a big one that you likely made with the help and support of a loved one. So, as you ready yourself for surgery, here are a few things to pass along to your point-person and caretaker, the one who will be helping you along this life-changing journey.

The First Night – Your surgical staff will ask you if there is someone at home to stay with you, especially your first night home. If you don’t have a live-in partner, it is essential that you arrange for someone to stay with you. Getting up in the night, feeling dizzy or ill can be especially frightening if you are alone.

The Care and Feeding of You – You may be given restrictions on what you can and cannot eat, depending on your surgical procedure. Staying hydrated and eating healthy will go a long way towards your recovery. You may want to prepare meals in advance and shop for the foods you like, but better yet, let your caretaker prepare your meals. Don’t forget to take inventory of your medications and read the advisory language on the labels. This is important and should be followed, as an upset stomach, unnecessary nausea or vomiting may result from taking your meds on an empty stomach.

• The Kids – If you have small children, arrange for help with child care – whether that is your primary caretaker or a friend. And remember, no heavy lifting!
• Housekeeping 101 – Let your caretaker vacuum. And do the dishes and laundry. Just for a short time while you get back to your old and “new” self!

Call us, today, to learn more about the plastic and cosmetic surgical procedures we offer, and let Dr. Buchanan help you be your best self, every day: (828) 526-3783.

The decision to undergo cosmetic surgery is a decision you shouldn’t make lightly; it’s a choice you will live with for the rest of your life. A successful outcome can enhance your self-esteem. Poor results may mean additional surgery and heartache.

Accordingly, your choice of cosmetic surgeon is vitally important.

Here are FOUR things to consider as you make your cosmetic surgery decision:

1. Board Certification – Did you know that the government does not require a surgeon to be specifically trained in the procedures they offer? In the area of cosmetic surgery, many doctors with general surgery or other medical training decide to offer cosmetic surgery in pursuit of greater profits. Dr. Buchanan is certified with the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery – the most dependable way of assessing whether a cosmetic surgeon is properly trained.
2. Experience In the Procedure You Want – Each area of cosmetic surgery requires different skills. Operating on a nose is quite different from operating on a breast. Ask your potential cosmetic surgeon how he or she trained in the procedure you want and how many times they have performed it.
3. Aesthetics – It goes without saying that what one person finds beautiful may be unattractive to another. This is why it is important to find a cosmetic surgeon that shares your aesthetic sensibility. Compare results for the procedure you want to have – usually provided by the surgeon as before-and-after photos – and think about whether the results appeal to you. Look at yourself in the mirror or take a selfie for reference. For facial procedures, look for photos of patients that have a similar facial structure, are around your age, and have some of the same concerns. Ask yourself if their results look like you want to look after your surgery.
4. Emotional Connection – You should feel comfortable with your cosmetic surgeon and their support team. Ask yourself if you like spending time with him or her and if you feel like you can trust them to recommend what is safe and right for you.

Dr. Buchanan is dedicated to serving your cosmetic surgery needs. He and his specialized team are trained to assist you and answer any questions you may have.
If you are considering cosmetic surgery, call to schedule a complementary consultation: (828) 526-3783.

There are hundreds of guides out there on how to prepare for plastic surgery — from quitting smoking to making sure that you have your prescriptions filled. While all those guides can prove to be very helpful on your end, we would like to emphasize here at our North Carolina plastic surgery practice the 3 most important steps that you should not fail to take before making that final decision.

1. Do an exhaustive research.

Do not just limit yourself to looking for information online. If you have the chance, talk to friends and relatives who have tried the same procedure as you. Are you thinking of having a tummy tuck? Or a liposuction? Ask questions and figure out what it was like before, during, and after the procedure.

On the other hand, a thorough screening of the plastic surgeons of your choice should also be done. Ask for their credentials, specific trainings on the procedure of your interest, and whether or not they’re available for follow-up visits following surgery. In addition, try asking for before and after photos. Lastly, you might want to figure out if there have been major complaints from previous patients.

2. Consider getting a second opinion.

Like all types of medical intervention, consider getting a second opinion before making the final decision. Keep in mind that not all plastic surgeons have your best interest and safety in mind. If possible, choose plastic surgeons who have been personally recommended by friends or family.

3. Do not settle for less.

If the cost or offer sounds too good to be true, consider asking yourself why such a procedure would be so cheap. As what the old adage says, you actually get what you pay for. Find a plastic surgeon like Dr. Buchanan who does not only have a long history of satisfied patients but who is also a leader in the cosmetic surgery industry.

Let us help you make that decision to have plastic surgery! We are located at 209 Hospital Drive, Suite 202, Highlands, NC.  Call us at 828-526-3783 or fill out this contact form to schedule an initial consultation. We look forward to your visit!