Cosmetic Surgery and Laser Center of El Paso - Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery in Texas

Silcone Gel-filled Breast Implants

• What exactly is a silicone gel-filled implant?

  A silicone gel-filled breast implant is an implant shell made of silicone elastomer (rubber) filled with silicone gel as opposed to being filled with saline. Saline implants also have a silicone elastomer shell.

• What can you tell me about "silicone" in general?

   Silicones, whether used as an oil, gel, or solid are used extensively in the medical field. Silicones are used for coating surgical needles, suture thread. Protective silicone coatings have been used in pacemakers and heart valves, artificial joints and facial implants as well as in tissue expanders and breast implants.

• What are the advantages and disadvantages of the silicone gel implant?

  The advantage is silicone feels more natural than saline and can sometimes look more natural than saline (very little chance of rippling). Silicone implants are not adjustable and cannot be manipulated at the time of surgery as can saline implants. Silicone implants are more expensive that saline implants.

• Is a patient with silicone implants at greater risk for other diseases?

  There have been reports in literature of reported medical conditions in women with silicone gel-filled breast implants. Many of these conditions have been evaluated with no cause and effect relationship estabilished. There has been no conclusive evidence that silicone materials in breast implants increased the risk of developing breast cancer of connective tissue disease. Patients do need to be aware of these possible conditions. Please call our office for detail regarding these conditions at 915-541-1225.

• How would the patient know if a silicone implant ruptured?

  Unlike saline implants, rupture of a silicone implant can not always be detected on routine examination. If a rupture is suspected, an MRI would be requested to determine if the implant had ruptured.

• Do silicone implants increase the risk of breast cancer?

  Reports in medical literature indicate that patients with breast implants are not at a greater risk than those without breast implants (saline or silicone) for developing breast cancer. The patient should continue to do breast self-exams and maintain regular check ups with their physician.

Body Surgery for Men

• What is body contouring?

  Body contouring is a variety of procedures with the overall goal of re-shaping or contouring the body. This includes liposuction, tummy tuck, body lifts, etc.

BOTOX® Cosmetic and Facial Fillers

• Will it radically change my appearance?

  No. You may expect a marked improvement in your frown lines, and, a generally more relaxed and refreshed appearance. You will not appear to have had “work done”.

• Will it make me lose expression?

  The only expression you will lose is the unintentional frown caused by the overactive muscles between your brows.

• Who is NOT a candidate for BOTOX^® Cosmetic?

  Patients who are pregnant, nursing or trying to become pregnant should not use BOTOX^® Cosmetic. Patients with certain neurological disorders such as ALS, Myasthenia Gravis or Lambert-Eaton syndrome may be at increased risk of serious side effects.

• Where does the BOTOX^® Cosmetic go?

  It generally remains only in the treated muscle and gradually disappears without breaking down or traveling throughout the body.

• What should I expect after treatment?

  There may be brief, mild swelling and redness and/or slight temporary bruising at injection sites. You will be advised to avoid touching the treated areas, remain upright for 3-4 hours after treatment and to avoid strenuous exercise for the rest of the day. BOTOX^® Cosmetic begins to work in 2-4 days in most people. The longer the muscles are relaxed the less visible the wrinkles will become.

• What is BOTOX^® Cosmetic?

  BOTOX ^® Cosmetic is a natural protein which in very low doses relaxes the overactive muscles that cause frown lines to form. This results in facial rejuvenation. BOTOX^® Cosmetic is the trade name for Botulinum Toxin Type A.

• What are the common side effects?

  The most common side effects include bruising at the injection site, headache, flu symptoms, temporary eyelid droop, and nausea.

• Is it safe?

  BOTOX^® Cosmetic has been safely used to treat a variety of conditions since the 1970’s, and is FDA approved for the temporary treatment of frown lines in people aged 18 to 65.

• How long does it last?

  It lasts about 4 months, after which lines gradually revert to their pre-treatment appearance.

• Does it hurt?

  There is minimal discomfort from the injections. The needle is tiny and the areas to be treated are cooled to minimize discomfort and reduce risk of bruising.

Breast Lift (Mastopexy)

• What women benefit from a mastopexy?

  Women who have droopy breasts with loss of fullness in the upper portion of the breast will benefit from a mastopexy.

• What type of scars need to be placed on the breast?

  It depends on the amount of lift desired and the physician preference and experience.

• What is a mastopexy?

  A Mastopexy is a breast lift. It involves elevating the nipple areolar complex and may involve the removal of breast tissue.

• What if I don't want an increase in size just a better shape?

  Breast implants can also be used to help with the overall shape of the breast. A small implant can be used to help with upper breast fullness without really affecting the overall volume.

• What are the different types of incisions used for breast lifts?

  At minimal, there is an incision around the areola, referred by as a "periareolar" incision. There is also usually an incision that goes down the length of the breast, referred to as a "vertical scar". At maximum, there are both incisions plus an incision on the lower part of the breast or breast crease. This incision is called an "anchor" incision.

• Can a breast implant be used in conjunction with a mastopexy?

  Yes, an implant is often used in conjunction with a maxtopexy. This can help increase the size of the breast.

• Are there external scars on the breast with a mastopexy?

  Yes, there are always external scars on the breast because skin and breast tissue need to be removed.

Breast Revision Surgery

• What types of surgery fall under the category of revision breast surgery?

  Breast lift (mastopexy), breast reduction, and breast augmentation are some of the most common revision surgeries women seek.

• How long after the initial surgery would a patient have to wait to have a revision done?

  Dr. Jabor and Dr. Reynolds typically recommends a minimum of 6 months between the initial procedure and a revision.

Chin Augmentation

• Is chin augmentation (implant) an out-patient procedure?

  Chin augmentation is an out patient procedure. Often a chin implant is combined with other cosmetic procedures.

• Are chin implants different sizes? If so, how do I know which size is best for me?

  Chin implants come in different sizes, shapes and materials. Upon examination, your surgeon, will explain the differences and make his recommendation based on your individual need and treatment goals.

El Paso Facial Rejuvenation - Non-Surgical Facial Filler

• Which part or parts of my face could I enhance with facial fillers?

  Some of the more common areas for facial rejuvenation treatments include the nasolabial folds, marionette lines (from the corners of the mouth down), jaw line contouring, below the eyes and cheek augmentation.

• What will Juvéderm^® accomplish?

  Juvéderm^® will help smooth moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds. Most patients need one treatment to achieve optimal results.

• What prompted the FDA to approve Radiesse^®?

  Radiesse^® has been safely used for years medically. Current studies have demonstrated Radiesse^® to also be safe & effective for long-term facial enhancement, especially for correction of nasolabial folds.

• What is hyaluronic acid?

  Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occuring sugar found in the human body that delivers nutrients to the skin as well as hydrating the skin.

• What facial fillers can your office offer me?

  Depending on your correction needs, Dr. Weeks and Dr. Jabor offer Restylane^®, Radiesse^®, and Juvéderm^® Ultra facial fillers.

• How many treatments will it take to see results?

  Although touch up treatments are advised for maximum correction, you will see improvement the day of your first treatment.

• How long will the results of facial fillers last?

  Short-term as well as longer term fillers are available depending on your choice and the areas to be corrected.

• How long does will my Juvéderm^® results last?

  Juvéderm^® is the longest lasting of hyaluronic gel inectable fillers with results lasting about 6 months.

• How long does Radiesse^® last?

  Radiesse^® restores fullness and contours with sustained results that last an average of one year or more.

• How does Radiesse^® differ from other dermal fillers?

  Radiesse^® provides volume replacement for wrinkles and folds and also stimulates new collagen production.

• Are the results of Sculptra^®Aesthetic immediate?

  Sculptra^®Aesthetic is a gradual treatment that does not immediately look like you have had work done.

• How long do Sculptra^® treatments last?

  Sculptra^® results can last up to two years following the last in the series of treatment sessions.

Fat Transfer-Facial

• Where is the fat harvested (liposuctioned) from?

  There are several options, most commonly the thighs are used.

• What is the down-time / recovery?

  There may be some swelling at the liposuction treatment site that may last up to 36 hours. There may be some bruising that can usually be covered by makeup.

   

• Is there possibility of an allergic reaction?

  Since fat transfer uses the patients own fat fat cells, there is no possible allergic reaction.

• Is fat transfer an out-patient procedure?

  Fat transfer is an out-patient procedure Depending on the extent of the procedure, fat transfer may be done in the office with local anesthesia or at a surgical center.

• How long will the fat transfer correction last?

  Reinjected fast lasts longer in areas where there is less mucle movement., such as below the eyes and sunken cheeks. It is estimated that 40% of the fat will remain for up to three years. Touch-up treatments are sometimes required.

Hair Removal

• Will maintenance treatments be required?

  Hair removal patients may require 1-2 maintenance sessions per year after completion of the initial treatment sessions.

• Why does hair growth cycle affect the number of treatments?

  There are three growth cycles: active (anagen), regression (catagen) and resting (telogen). The laser energy targets the hair in the active (anagen) hair growth cycle only. Repeated laser hair removal treatments are needed to ensure that as hair enters the active stage it will be treated.

   

• Which areas may be safely treated with laser hair removal?

  All areas, with the exception of the areas surrounding the eyes, may be targeted laser hair removal treatment.

• What should I expect after a treatment?

  Immediately after laser treatment one may experience slight redness or mild swelling of the treatment area that can last from a few minutes to two days depending on the coarseness of the hair. Normally, patients return to their regularly routine immediately. Use of adequate sunblock with a minimum SPF protection of 30 is necessary.

• Is laser hair removal safe?

  Laser hair removal is very safe under physician supervision. Our technicians are thoroughly trained in laser safety and technique according to proposed guidelines by the Texas State Board of Medical Examiners.

• Is laser hair removal painful?

  Pain is variable per patient. Some treatment areas are more sensitive than others and may require topical anesthetic before treatment. Most patients experience a moderate stinging sensation, more so in areas of dense hair growth.

• How much do the treatments cost?

  Prices vary according to the treatment site as well as the estimated length of time the treatment will take. Our staff is available to advise patients regarding treatment cost of specific areas as well as current seasonal promotions.

• How many treatments are required for hair reduction?

  The number of treatments is affected by the hair density, the area being treated and the growth cycle of the hair. Additional factors such as age, ethnicity, weight, hormone fluctuation, some medications and metabolism influence hair growth. Experience tells us that 4-8 treatments spaced 4-12 weeks apart results in permanent hair reduction.

• How long is the treatment session?

  The length of a treatment is determined by the density of hair growth and size of the surface area being treated. Smaller areas may require 15 minutes, while larger areas may take an hour or longer.

• How does the laser work?

  The laser removes facial and body hair by selectively targeting melanin (pigment) inside the hair follicle generating heat energy at the root of the hair which destroys the hair without damaging the skin.

• Can darker skin types be safely treated for hair removal with laser?

  With proper skin assessment and typing by an experienced technician, incorporating the use of longer pulse widths, and doing preliminary test areas, darker skin types may be treated.

Juvéderm® Injectable Filler

• What makes Juvéderm^® different from other hyaluronic fillers?

  Juvéderm^® is a very smooth injectable gel that also holds up over time.

• How soon will I see results with Juvéderm^® ?

  Immediately after treatment the patient will see improvement.

Liposuction

• What is body contouring?

  Body contouring is a variety of procedures with the overall goal of re-shaping or contouring the body. This includes liposuction, tummy tuck, body lifts, etc.

   

• What does liposuction do?

  Liposuction removes subcutaneous fat between the skin and muscle. This is done with small incisions and the use of a narrow cannula usually under general anesthesia. Fluid is placed in the fat first, this helps minimize blood loss, and then the fat is removed. It is the most common cosmetic procedure performed in the United States.

• What areas is liposuction good for?

  Liposuction can be performed on almost any part of the body where there is excess fat such as the abdomen, hips, arms,thighs, back, neck, etc. Your cosmetic surgeon will be able to inform you of the best liposuction option for your particular situation.

• What are the costs of these procedures?

  Depending on the procedures and the time there is a wide range of fees. The surgeon’s fees can range from $1,500 to 8,000. When anesthesia and surgical center fees are added it is about 50% more.

• Is the fat removed permanently?

  Yes, the fat cells that are removed are permanently gone. However, if a patient continues to gain weight after the surgery the fat cells that remain can continue to grow or fat could be deposited on another part of the body.

• Is one better than the other?

  This a debated point. Some plastic surgeons feel one is superior to the other. The bottom line is they can all work well and can give the patient great results. What is more important is the skill of the surgeon using the instrument and not the instrument itself.

• Is liposuction safe?

  If performed by a qualified physician on a healthy patient the procedure should be extremely safe.

• Is liposuction good for weight loss?

  No, liposuction is for contouring. Often time a patient may loose some weight as a result of liposuction but this should not be the primary reason to perform the procedure. In fact liposuction does not substitute diet and exercise and patients that get the best results are those who exercise and watch what they eat afterwards. However, a patient will often decrease a dress size or two and loose inches from their waist.

• Is liposuction good for all patients?

  No, liposuction is intended for patients in overall good health. It does not improve or remove stretched out or hanging skin and it does not improve or remove stretch marks. For patients with loose or stretched out skin a tummy tuck is often better.

• How much fat can be removed at a time?

  The American Society of Plastic Surgeons recommends that if performing liposuction on an out patient basis no more that five liters of fat should be remove in one surgery.

   

• Does medical insurance ever pay for any of these procedures?

  On occasion they may cover certain procedures. However, there usually needs to be documentation of a medical necessity reason. This would include such things as a chronic rash or infection.

• Do you have to be put to sleep for liposuction?

  If the patient is having multiple areas treated or larger amount of fat is to be removed then general anesthesia is usually necessary. If there is only a small amount of fat removal or few areas are to be treated then this can usually be done under local anesthesia.

• Do pills, deep massages, injections, or wraps do the same thing as liposuction?

  No, there are a lot of other products and procedures on the market that claim to do a lot of magnificent things. In reality, none of these things have had any true scientific test to prove their claims on a long-term basis. If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is.

• Can liposuction improve the upper arms?

  Liposuction provides improvement on the upper arms in patients that have good skin elasticity and mild skin laxity. For the patient with marked skin laxity excision may be a more appropriate procedure.

• Are there different types of liposuction?

  Yes, there are basically 3 types of liposuction. Suction assisted liposuction, power assisted liposuction, ultrasonic assisted liposuction. All accomplish the same end result with some variations on the technology.  

   

Liposuction with Fat Transfer to the Buttocks

• Where is the fat harvested from?

  There are a variety of areas that may be used for fat-transfer liposuction. The abdomen, hips and thighs are common sites for fat removal.

   

• What is the "down-time"?

  After liposuction and fat transfer, it is recommended to take five days from work. You will have some swelling and bruising. Full exercise usually is resumed in six weeks.

• How much "fat" is needed to re-shape the buttocks?

  An estimate of 250cc per side is the goal in most patients. Some patients may require more or less.

Ear Surgery - Otoplasty

• What is the follow up for otoplasty?

  After the procedure you will wear a dressing on the head that keeps the ears flat against the head. For awhile, the patient wears a headband to keep the ears against the head while sleeping. In 7-10 days the sutures are removed.

• Is otoplasty an out-patient procedure?

  Otoplasty is an out-patient procedure which is performed either at the surgical center or in some cases in the office.

• How soon after otoplasty will the patient see results?

  Improvement is visible very soon after the procedure.

Plastic Surgery for Massive Weight Loss Patients

• Will I be admitted to the hospital and if so for how long?

  The majority of patients have procedures done on an out-patient basis and go home the same day. If several procedures are combined, an overnight stay may be warranted.

• Is liposuction done with body lift, and is it safe to do both together?

  Liposuction is often done with body lift on areas other than the surgical site to improve contour. Liposuction may be done on the legs, arms, upper back and chin/neck, to name a few options. Liposuction is safe because it is done in limited areas to enhance the overall result, and not done at the surgical site.

• I lost alot of weight, can I just exercise to improve my appearance?

  Exercise will improve your general health and to an extent your appearance. Exercise alone will not improve loose, sagging skin due to fluctuations in weight and poor skin elasticity.

• How long of a recovery can I expect and what kind of help will I need during my recovery?

  Depending on the procedure(s) done, most patients take at least 2 weeks off from work, sometimes longer based on the combination of procedures. Having someone help you at home for several days after the procedures would be beneficial.

• How long after my weight loss must I wait to begin having my procedures?

  Most physicians recommend that patients achieve and remain at a stable weight for 12-18months before beginning surgery to correct skin laxity.

• Does insurance cover any procedures following weight loss?

  Insurance may cover procedures that are deemed medically necessary such as paniculectomy or breast reduction. The insurance company will require documentation, which varies from company to company, regarding the necessity of the procedure. No insurance company will cover procedures that are considered "cosmetic" in nature.

• After a body lift will my skin remain tight or will I have to repeat the procedure again?

  As your body ages, it is natural to lose some firmness, however, most of your initial improvement should be relatively permanent, provided you maintain your weight and a healthy life style.

Tummy Tuck

• Who is a good candidate for a mini-tummy tuck?

  Patients that have a very small amount of skin excess qualify for this procedure. Unfortunately, most patients need the maximal amount of skin removed for the best improvement.  

• What is a tummy tuck or abdominoplasty?

  A tummy tuck or abdominoplasty is the removal of skin and fat from the lower abdomen and tightening of the muscle of the abdominal wall. The incision and ultimate scar is on the lower part of the abdomen. It is like a caesarian section incision, but is larger and usually goes from hip to hip.

• What is a mini-abdominoplasty (tummy tuck)?

  In general, it refers to removal of a small amount of skin and possibly tightening of abdominal muscles.

• What happens to the belly button?

  In most cases, the belly button is cut around and left attached to the underlying tissue. The skin from the upper abdomen is then pulled over the belly button. Before final closure, a small hole is made in the skin and the belly button is brought through this.

• What happens if a woman has a tummy tuck and then gets pregnant?

  She should be able to have the child without any fear of harm to herself or her child. However, the overall results of the tummy tuck may be diminished after the pregnancy. 

• What are the costs of these procedures?

  Depending on the procedures and the time there is a wide range of fees. The surgeon’s fees can range from $1,500 to 8,000. When anesthesia and surgical center fees are added it is about 50% more.

• What about loose skin in other parts of the body like the thighs, the hips, the arms, or the buttocks?

  These can all be addressed by specific procedures that remove skin and fat. For example, excess skin on the inner thigh can be treated by a thigh lift. This removes both fat and skin and greatly improves the contour and tightness of the skin. The scar lies in the crease between the thigh and groin. Similar procedures are performed in other parts of the body.

• How soon after childbirth can a woman have a tummy tuck?

  Generally, waiting 6 months or more after childbirth is advisable. However, it depends on each individual.

• How are the muscles tightened?

  Actually, it is the tough tissue covering the muscles that is tightened. This involves stitches that are placed so as to bring the muscles back together in the middle.

• Does the scar always have to be so long?

  Most of the time the scar will go from the front part of one hip to the front part of the opposite hip. This may vary depending on the amount of skin that needs to be removed. Sometimes the incision can be shorter and sometimes it will need to be longer. If the incision is planned corectly, it can be mostly hidden beneath underwear.

   

• Does medical insurance ever pay for any of these procedures?

  On occasion they may cover certain procedures. However, there usually needs to be documentation of a medical necessity reason. This would include such things as a chronic rash or infection.

• Do muscles always need to be tightened?

  No, not always. However, in most women that have had children, these muscles become separated in the midline as a result of their pregnancies. Tightening the muscles gives overall improvement to the final result.

• Can a tummy tuck be combined with other plastic surgical procedures?

  Yes, it is common to combine tummy tuck with other procedures, especially liposuction. The more important thing is the overall length of the surgery. This should not be excessive.

• Can a tummy tuck be combined with a hysterectomy?

  Usually these two procedures can be combined. However, things must be carefully coordinated between the plastic surgeon and the gynecologist.

• Can a tummy tuck be combined with a cesarean section?

  No, this is not a good idea.

• Are tummy tucks only for women?

  No, some men are good candidates for tummy tucks. The same procedure and principles apply.