breast lift patientThe idea of having years of breast sagging and volume loss magically lifted in a single procedure sounds like a dream come true for many people. But there are a lot of details to consider when deciding if a breast lift is a good choice for you. In order to help you figure that out, we have answered the most common questions and points of confusion surrounding this popular cosmetic surgery.

What Is a Breast Lift?

Starting with the basics is important. A breast lift is a cosmetic surgery that aims to create perkier and more attractive breasts in a patient by removing excess skin and tissue in the area. It is generally performed under anesthesia as an outpatient procedure, which means you will need to be willing to commit to a full surgery in exchange for dramatic improvement in your breast contours.

What Is a Breast Lift Called?

Most surgeries have multiple names that people use. A breast lift is also referred to as a mastopexy, primarily by surgeons and other medical professionals. You should remember that terms like “boob jobs” refer to breast augmentation, which is technically a different procedure than a breast lift.

How Common are Breast Lifts?

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons report, more than 87,000 breast lifts were performed throughout 2020. The year prior, more than 110,000 were performed. Like most aesthetic procedures, COVID-19 impacts the total number of procedures performed, but the high volume that was retained despite restrictions shows how much people value the results that a breast lift can provide.

Do I Need a Breast Lift?

This question is mostly a personal one. If you are experiencing breast sagging after pregnancy, nursing, weight fluctuation or the natural aging process, then you are likely someone who could benefit from a breast lift. But you should be sure that you have the procedure performed for your own reasons — not to meet someone else’s expectations. If you want to look better in swimwear or generally want to improve your appearance for your own confidence, then you should consider a breast lift.

How Much Is a Breast Lift?

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons found that the average cost of a breast lift in 2020 was $5,012. While this is a great place to start, you should keep in mind that your own price may differ depending on a few factors like the amount of correction being performed, any combination procedures, your unique geographic location and your own aesthetic goals. Facility fees and anesthesia costs can change depending on a variety of factors as well. 

When Can I lift My Arms After Breast Lift or Reduction?

Immediately after your surgery, it is likely that your range of motion will be limited. You should avoid overexerting or overextending yourself during your recovery since you could accidentally reopen your wounds and damage the long-term appearance of your scars. You will have regular follow-up appointments with our expert staff, who will let you know when certain milestones are safe to cross. Typically, after a couple of weeks, you can safely and comfortably lift your arms without risking damage to your wounds.

Do Your Breasts Get a Lift During a Breast Reduction?

A breast reduction is a different procedure than a breast lift. Breast reductions aim to decrease the size and volume of a woman’s breasts. However, when that is achieved, the woman is often left with an unnecessary excess of skin and tissue that would cause the breasts to droop. For this reason, most surgeons will perform a breast lift or “mini” breast lift to ensure a perky and appealing shape. This issue becomes less of a concern in patients with strong skin elasticity.

How Is a Breast Lift Performed?

A breast lift is performed in four steps: anesthesia, incisions, tissue removal and closure. The entire process can take a couple of hours, depending on your specific surgery. Your surgeon should go through the whole process with you before the day of the surgery, so there should be no surprises or questions left for you on the day of the procedure. 

What Are the Breast Lift Incision Options?

There are three primary incision patterns that are used: circular, lollipop and anchor. The circular incision makes a cut around the nipple-areolar complex. It provides the most negligible noticeable scarring and the least amount of access to your surgeon. This is generally reserved for patients with mild breast sagging. The lollipop incision includes the same cut as the previous method but consists of a vertical incision spanning from the nipple-areolar complex to the bottom of the breast fold. This provides more access at the cost of more scarring and is a good option for anyone with moderate skin ptosis. The anchor technique uses both the circular and lollipop incisions but goes further by cutting across the bottom of the inframammary fold beneath the breast. This provides the greatest amount of access and the highest amount of incisions for patients with severe levels of breast ptosis.

What Age Can I Get a Breast Lift?

Generally, the only rule of thumb is to make sure your breasts have finished developing before having any surgeries. If you were to have a breast lift too early, there is no telling how future growth will impact the aesthetic of your breasts. This also goes for anyone who is looking to become pregnant, nurse or lose a significant amount of weight. Having a breast lift performed and then fluctuating your breast size can compromise your results and put you back to square one.

How Safe Is a Breast Lift?

Breast lift surgery is considered very safe, but you should always know that certain risks are always present when undergoing anesthesia and surgery. You will have a complete medical team with you on the day of your surgery to monitor your health. As long as you have disclosed all medical conditions, it is improbable that a serious complication will develop.

Can I Get a Limited Incision Breast Lift?

Patients with mild to moderate amount of needed correction may be eligible for a limited incision breast lift, which reduces the total amount of scarring on your body. The approach to your particular procedure will be unique to you, so it is best to speak to one of our medical professionals about this option. We perform this on a great number of women who are often ecstatic with the results.

Does Medicare Cover Breast Lifts?

Medicare does not cover anything that is considered cosmetic or optional. In some cases, a breast reduction and lift combination may be covered if the condition is causing other medical concerns, but a breast lift in itself typically yields no medical benefits.

Does Insurance Cover Breast Lifts?

Similar to Medicare, private insurance policies rarely cover elective cosmetic procedures like breast lifts if there is no medical benefit to the patient. You should always check with your insurance provider to see if there are any benefits available to you.

Is There a Nonsurgical Breast Lift?

While a nonsurgical breast lift sounds like a fantastic concept, there is, unfortunately, no nonsurgical option available on the market that will allow you to experience the same results as a breast lift. Some minimally invasive or noninvasive claim to provide some results, but these are often just used as bandaid solutions until a patient is ready to commit to a complete breast lift surgery.

Does a Breast Lift Leave Scars?

Yes, part of having a breast lift performed is the eventual development of scar tissue. Luckily, most of the incisions that are made for this surgery are hidden within natural folds and borders on the body, making them much harder to notice in most cases. As time goes by, the scars will naturally begin to fade — many patients eventually find their scars virtually invisible.

Can I Get a Breast Lift Without Scars?

Unlike a breast augmentation, which can go through different parts of the body, a breast lift requires that tissue is directly removed from the body — meaning that scarring is inevitable. There is currently no technique that can remove this tissue and excess skin without developing scars. But there is something called a Limited Incision Breast Lift that was designed to minimize the amount of scarring.

Do I Need Implants with a Breast Lift?

No, you do not have to have implants placed during your breast lift. You can, however, choose to do so if that is your aesthetic preference. In some cases, increased size can mean fewer incisions since some volume loss is being addressed by filling in the excess tissue. You should consult with a member of our expert team to figure out exactly which method would best achieve your aesthetic goals.   

Is a Breast Lift Painful?

A breast lift is a surgical procedure, so you should be prepared for some level of pain or discomfort. While most patients can get through this pain with over-the-counter medications, prescriptions are available for those who need them. The first two weeks of recovery will be the most difficult since this is when you will experience the most pain, discomfort, swelling, redness and soreness. By the end of those two weeks, the worst of most of these symptoms are behind you.

Is Breast Lift Surgery Dangerous?

In the hands of a highly trained and experienced professional like those at Newport Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Associates, breast lift surgery is not considered particularly dangerous. Aside from the typical anesthesia risks, a breast lift is relatively low stakes.

Can You Breastfeed After a Breast Lift?

A breast lift has no impact on a woman’s ability to breastfeed. Everything necessary to produce and supply milk to an infant is still there. If you are considering having children, though, you may want to consider having your breast lift performed after your childbearing and nursing process since these life steps can reverse the results from your breast lift.

How Long Does a Breast Lift Take to Heal?

Usually, a full recovery can be made within eight weeks, depending on your body’s ability to heal and the extent of the correction that was performed. You will have plenty of follow-up appointments with your surgeon to ensure healing is going smoothly.  It is also common for a resorbable mesh to be used to provide more breast support throughout this process.

Can I Go Without a Bra After a Breast Lift?

Immediately after a breast lift and during your recovery, you will more than likely need to wear a supportive bra round the clock. You may even be provided with what is known as a compression garment — a tight piece of clothing that is used on the targeted area to prevent excess swelling. Once your recovery is over, many patients find themselves fully capable of skipping the bra thanks to their new perky breast appearance.

How Long After a Breast Lift Can I Swim?

You will need to progress fully through the healing process in order to go swimming. Wait until you are officially cleared by your surgeon, otherwise, you risk infection or the opening of your wound. Both of these options can drastically damage your results and safety, so you should always wait until you are cleared by your surgeon to move forward with strenuous activities like this one.

How Long Does a Breast Lift Last?

The longevity of your breast lift is based entirely on your genetics, lifestyle and environment. Some people find that they can go more than 15 years without needing a follow-up treatment, while some people need to repeat the process every 10 years or so to keep up with the development of new tissue sagging.   

Is a Breast Lift Worth It?

Many of our patients are happy to find out that their new breast appearance was well worth their financial and time investment. They reclaim their confidence and live fuller lives because they are no longer self-conscious. Whether you consider a breast lift to be worth it or not depends on how much you value things like self-confidence.

Expert Breast Lift Surgery in Newport Beach, CA

If you are ready to learn more about how breast lift surgery can improve your confidence by restoring perkier and more youthful breasts, give our office a call at (949) 251-1502 to schedule a consultation or fill out our online contact form to have a member of our team reach out to you at a better time. We are looking forward to being your trusted partner throughout your aesthetic journey.

breast revision patientEven with the best surgical technique and execution, eventually, most women who undergo breast augmentation surgery with breast implants will have to face a breast revision procedure at some point in their lifetime. Over time, changes to the appearance of the breasts or concerns with the implants themselves can lead a woman to consider breast revision surgery. The effects of aging, childbearing or implant complications can all alter the positive benefits you achieve with your initial augmentation procedure. Women may also experience changes in aesthetic preferences and wish to exchange their implants for a new size or style. Whether your breasts require a revision due to complications with your implants, unsatisfactory results from prior surgery or personal reasons, it’s essential to schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your concerns and determine if breast revision surgery is right for you. Together, you can design a personalized breast revision plan that restores your breasts to a more attractive and youthful appearance. Below are some of the most common reasons women will undergo breast revision surgery.

Changes to the Breast Tissue

Many women are surprised to learn that the appearance of their breasts’ is still subject to changes after their initial breast augmentation procedure. While breast implants will provide you with fuller, shapelier and more symmetrical breasts, life events such as pregnancy, weight fluctuations, menopause or the natural aging process can each take a toll on your breast augmentation results. Breasts augmented with breast implants age the same as breasts with natural breast tissue; both are prone to sagging due to gravity and loss of skin elasticity. Women will often opt for a breast revision to address these age-related changes and may pair their procedure with a breast lift to eliminate excess skin and drooping.

Changes in Aesthetic Preferences

Sometimes the reasons for wanting breast revision are straightforward. Many women who undergo breast revision wish to go bigger or smaller in breast implant size. Others may decide that the implants that looked great on their body at the time of their breast augmentation are no longer flattering for them years down the road, especially if their body shape or size has fluctuated significantly. Women may also wish to switch their implant style, such as exchanging saline implants for silicone for a more natural look and feel. If you are no longer thrilled with the way your existing implants look, a breast revision procedure will swap out your current implants with new implants that better suit your aesthetic goals.

Capsular Contracture

In some cases, the implant and capsule of tissue around the implant can harden in one or both breasts due to a condition known as capsular contracture. Research on the prevalence of capsular contracture is limited, but has been estimated to affect between 15 and 45 percent of women with breast implants and can occur immediately after breast augmentation surgery or years later. There are four stages of capsular contracture, the third and fourth of which cause the breast to feel firm or painful and look unnatural. Breast revision is usually required for the third and fourth stages of capsular contracture, during which your surgeon will perform a capsulectomy to carefully remove the affected implant and capsule and replace it with a new breast implant if you desire. Over time, even the most successful breast augmentation procedures can require a revision. It’s crucial to maintain open communication with a trusted and experienced board-certified plastic surgeon after your augmentation and discuss any changes or concerns that arise as soon as they are noticed. Dr. Hisham Seify has extensive experience in breast revision procedures and can help you establish a surgical plan to restore your breasts to their more natural state and position. Contact Newport Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Associates today at 949-407-8265 to schedule your breast revision consultation.
breast implants patientBreast augmentation with breast implants has held the rank as the most popular cosmetic surgical procedure in the U.S. since 2006. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), over 313,000 women opted to enhance the symmetry, size and shape of their breasts with breast augmentation in 2018 — a four percent increase from the year before. As more women continue to become interested in breast augmentation surgery, more questions continue to come up about the different types of breast implant, their safety and how long they are designed to last. Breast implant devices, as we know them today, have been around since the 1960s, but today’s implants are the result of decades of research and clinical studies that have made them safer and more durable than ever before. The recent generations of breast implant models have provided women with stronger implant shells and more stable implant fillings that are designed to be incredibly long-lasting. However, if you are considering breast augmentation surgery or already have implants, you must understand breast implants are not considered lifetime devices, and there are many reasons why you may need to have them removed.

Why Would I Need to Have My Breast Implants Removed?

Technically speaking, breast implants never expire, but they can wear down over time. Saline implants, which contain a sterile saltwater solution, and silicone implants, which contain a cohesive gel-filling, are both composed of a thick silicone outer shell. While both types of breast implants can maintain their integrity for a decade or more in a woman’s body, the incidence of leaks or rupture increases over time. It is estimated that for both saline and silicone implants, the chance of rupture increases by one percent each year they are in the body. Though that may sound significant, it also means that after 10 years, there is still a 90 percent chance that the implants you have will still be intact. Manufacturers of breast implants estimate that the devices should last an average of 10 years. Still, with normal wear-and-tear from daily activities, the friction between the implant and the interior structures of your breast can wear away at the silicone shell even if you’re careful. This wear-down can eventually cause the implant to leak or rupture. While the deflation of a saline implant will be apparent almost immediately, silicone ruptures are often called “silent ruptures” as they produce no noticeable symptoms and are commonly only detected by MRI imaging. Whether you have saline or silicone implants, a leak or rupture in your implant will need to be addressed by having the implants removed or replaced in a breast revision procedure.

Breast Implant Illness and Complications

In addition to complications with the implant devices themselves, women may also wish to have their implants removed due to health-related concerns or breast implant illness. Breast implant illness is an all-encompassing term that refers to several symptoms or diseases thought to be caused by their breast implants. These symptoms can range from chronic fatigue and breast pain to capsular contracture — a complication where the scar tissue surrounding the breast implant hardens and tightens. As recently July 2019, specific models of Allergan textured breast implants have been recalled from the market worldwide due to studies linking them to a rare cancer known as breast implant-associated anaplastic large lymphoma (BIA-ALCL). Breast implant shells can be textured or smooth, with smooth implants having a flat surface and textured implants having a dimpled-surface that adheres to surrounding breast tissue. Textured implants have been associated with a higher risk of BIA-ALCL; however, if you have textured implants with no adverse symptoms, there is no need for concern. Though, if you are experiencing any uncomfortable symptoms, it is recommended that you follow up with a board-certified plastic surgeon such as Dr. Seify as soon as possible to ensure your implants are not the source of your pain. Regardless of your reasons for breast revision surgery, for most breast revision procedures Dr. Seify will perform an en bloc capsulectomy whenever possible. The en bloc technique involves the removal of scar tissue within the breast, or the capsule, along with the implants at the same time. This is essential especially for implants that are filled with silicone, have ruptured or are very old to ensure no silicone, bacteria or chemicals leak into the body during surgery for your safety.

When is it Time to Schedule a Breast Revision Consultation?

While breast implants are designed to safe and long-lasting, it is more than likely that they will require additional surgery down the road. If you have concerns regarding the integrity of your current implants or are suffering from adverse breast implant illness symptoms, it may be time to schedule a breast revision consultation with Dr. Hisham Seify. Dr. Seify can carefully assess the current condition of your implants, check for leaks or rupture and expertly recommend the best course of action for you and your unique case. To learn more about the lifespan of breast implants and breast revision surgery, contact the office of Newport Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Associates today at (949) 251-1502 to schedule your in-person consultation.
breast augmentation orange county For over a decade, breast augmentation surgery has been the most popular cosmetic procedure performed each year. In 2017 alone, over 300,000 breast augmentations were performed, and that number consistently continues to climb annually. Women who wish to enhance the size, shape or symmetry of their breasts may look to breast augmentation to address these concerns and restore proportion, balance and shapeliness to their breasts for years to come. Whatever your reasons for considering breast augmentation, Newport Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery is here to provide you with the need-to-know information to take into your initial consultation and help you determine if a breast augmentation is right for you.

Breast Augmentation Addresses Size, Not Sagging

There is often a common misconception that breast augmentation surgery can not only increase the size of your breasts, but also work to lift stretched, excess skin on the chest and raise breast tissue that has begun to droop. While breast augmentation can increase the breasts’ profile or their projection from the chest, the procedure does nothing to address lax skin or sagging tissue. In fact, any sagging present in your breasts prior to your augmentation may be exacerbated by the added volume of your chosen implants. A breast lift, or mastopexy, is a cosmetic surgery designed to lift and restore the breasts’ shape to a more youthful and aesthetically-pleasing profile. During a breast lift, loose and excess skin is removed from the breasts and surrounding tissues are tightened to achieve a more attractive, lifted bustline. However, while a breast lift will effectively reshape and raise your breasts, no significant change in breast size or volume occurs as a result of a breast lift alone. Similarly, breast augmentation on its own will not permanently prevent your breasts from sagging over time. For this reason, many patients at Newport Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery will choose to have a breast lift performed in conjunction with their breast augmentation, or after their breast augmentation, to both increase their breast size and keep the chest lifted for years to come.

Saline Versus Silicone Implants

Breast implants each consist of a soft, silicone outer shell. The contents that fill these shells can be broken into two basic categories: saline and silicone gel. While not discernibly different in appearance but sometimes varying in shape, these materials differ most significantly in the way they feel, the size and location of the incision requirements, and their overall cost. Silicone implants are traditionally the most popular implant option and were used in 87 percent of breast augmentation procedures in 2017. However, these fillings each have their own advantages and drawbacks. The implant material you choose is based primarily on personal preference, but board-certified surgeon Dr. Seify can recommend which style, shape and texture will yield the best results for your individual goals. Saline implants are composed of a sterile saltwater solution and tend to feel firmer to the touch than natural breast tissue and the alternative silicone materials. They are placed into the breast empty, which can allow for more custom adjustments in volume and symmetry during the procedure. Saline implants also have the added benefit that in the rare case of leakage or implant rupture, the solution can be safely and naturally absorbed by your body without any adverse side effects. While a leak or rupture in a saline implant will cause the breast to deflate almost immediately, this is ultimately beneficial, as you will know immediately when the implant needs to be replaced. Silicone implants are prefilled with a gel substance and considered softer and more natural-feeling than saline implants. The smooth gel is less likely to display any rippling or wrinkling and is ideal for women without much existing breast tissue to work with. A disadvantage to silicone, however, is that they are capable of silent rupture, which is when leaks and ruptures are not immediately noticed due to no visible changes to the breasts’ shape. Undetected leaks may lead to silicone migrating out of the implant pocket, though this is less likely with the new cohesive gel or “gummy bear” implants in which the consistency of the gel is much thicker and is less likely to migrate. The damaged implant will need to be removed, but the leaked silicone is inert, meaning it is safe and non-toxic. Again, any sort of leakage or rupture is a rare occurrence, and both silicone and saline implants have been extensively researched and tested for durability and safety. In 2014, a new type of FDA-approved implant technology became available for breast augmentation— the Ideal Implant. The Ideal Implant gets its name by combining the best features of saline and silicone implants to both give women peace of mind in the safety of their implant material without compromising look and feel. While composed of saline, Ideal Implants are also internally structured, providing them with a natural look and feel similar to silicone without the risk of silent rupture. When choosing which implant is right for you, it’s important to discuss the benefits of each option with a board-certified surgeon to achieve the best overall outcome with your procedure.

Implant Placement Matters

It may surprise you to learn there are two different options for the placement of breast implants that play an essential role in the outcome of your procedure. The first option is referred to as sub-glandular, which creates a pocket for the implant directly beneath your existing breast tissue and above your pectoral muscle. Sub-glandular placement can be beneficial for providing a more dramatic breast profile with your implants, or more significant projection from your chest wall to accentuate the bust. However, proper concealment of the breast implant can easily be compromised with this placement if the patient does not have a substantial amount of existing breast tissue. This can result in the outer edge of the implant or fill valve being visible from beneath the skin, or noticeable wrinkling or rippling in the implant’s texture. The second option, known as sub-muscular or sub-pectoral, places a pocket directly between your pectoral muscle and chest wall. Sub-muscular placement is generally more ideal for women without a great deal of existing breast tissue, as the pectoral muscle provides better implant concealment by preventing visible edges or wrinkling. This placement is also thought to lessen the likelihood of developing capsular contracture— the most common complication of breast augmentation in which scar tissue gradually forms around the implant.

Breast Implants Will Need to Be Replaced

Many women are surprised to discover that their breast implants will at some point need to be replaced. While most implant devices will last up to 10 years or longer before requiring a replacement, annual check-ups and regular self-checks will be necessary to maintain the vitality of your implants. Women with silicone implants are advised to receive an MRI scan three years after surgery then every two years after that to inspect for silent ruptures. Women may also choose to replace their implants after significant weight fluctuations, pregnancy and breastfeeding or changes in personal preference. Breast augmentation surgery isn’t a one-size-fits-all procedure, and with so many customizable options, it can be intimidating to know where to start. To learn more about what breast augmentation can do for you, Dr. Seify and the experienced staff at Newport Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery are ready to guide you every step of the way. Call our office today at 949-333-0305 to schedule your consultation.
orange county mommy makeoverMany women consider having children to be one of the most important and rewarding choices of their lives. But regardless of all the joy that motherhood brings, it is common for women to experience unwelcome and lasting changes to their bodies from pregnancy that can be a source of embarrassment and adversely affect their self-esteem. Mothers are expected to do it all, and there is a common misconception that women should be able to quickly “bounce back” after pregnancy with some dedicated dieting and exercise. What is frequently left out of the narrative is the unexpected challenge that many mothers will face no matter how well they balance everything – getting back their pre-pregnancy body. Pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding all take a tremendous toll on a woman’s figure, with the most apparent changes naturally occurring to the abdomen and breasts. While diet and exercise are both key elements in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, flabby belly skin, drooping breasts and stubborn baby weight are not reversible through these efforts alone. Fortunately, mommy makeovers have emerged as a package of complementary restorative procedures designed to empower mothers by explicitly addressing each of these areas of concern with less downtime for recovery and subsequently less surgical costs for achieving a figure that allows them to feel good again.

What is a Mommy Makeover?

A mommy makeover refers not to an individual procedure, but rather to a suite of surgical procedures that are entirely customizable to treat any of your unique post-pregnancy concerns, and are performed in a single surgery. You may wish to enhance or lift your breasts, tone your stomach or trim away excess skin so you can love the way you look again- whether you’re new to motherhood or have struggled with your post-pregnancy appearance for years. Procedures commonly combined for mommy makeovers at Newport Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Associates include:
  • Breast Augmentation: Utilizes silicone or saline implants to restore breasts that have lost their shape and volume due to pregnancy and breastfeeding.
  • Breast Lift: Raises the breasts, tightens underlying tissue and removes excess skin for a more firm and youthful profile.
  • Body Lift: Designed to remove excess skin and fat present on the lower torso and upper legs. Lifts and redefines the belly, hips, back, side flanks, buttocks and outer thighs for a cohesively smooth and uplifted lower body.
  • Tummy Tuck: Tightens and repositions abdominal muscles weakened by pregnancy, removes excess, baggy skin and tightens remaining skin for a leaner and more chiseled midsection.
  • Mini Tummy Tuck: Less invasive tummy tuck procedure that treats mild to moderate weakened abdominal muscles and loose skin beneath the navel to redefine the lower abdomen.
  • Liposuction: Recontours and defines the figure by removing localized fat from the body that is resistant to diet and exercise.
  • Smartlipo: Minimally invasive liposuction technique that utilizes laser-assisted technology to precisely target and melts fat from within for easier extraction, requiring less downtime for recovery.
Ideal candidates for a mommy makeover are Orange County women who are in good overall health, have maintained a stable weight and healthy lifestyle, and are not considering future pregnancies, as this could alter or even reverse the results of the procedure. If you’re ready to focus more on the better parts of motherhood by making a positive change for yourself, board-certified Orange County plastic surgeon Dr. Seify is ready to compassionately listen to your concerns and help find the best solutions for you.

Enhance Your Breasts

Loss of breast volume, lax breast tissue and heavy, sagging skin are some of the most common concerns women will face after pregnancy and breastfeeding. A breast augmentation procedure is a safe and effective method of restoring or enhancing the breasts’ pre-pregnancy shape, symmetry and profile through the use of silicone or saline implants. A breast lift can be performed in addition to a breast augmentation procedure, or as a stand-alone treatment to raise breasts that have begun to fall as a result of lax breast tissue and stretched, loose skin. By improving the breasts’ natural shape and eliminating excess skin, breast augmentation and a breast lift can help you achieve a more youthful and attractive breast profile for years to come.

Tighten Post-Pregnancy Flab

During pregnancy, the abdominal muscles become stretched, and the once firm and taut skin on your stomach can be left looking loose and saggy. While a healthy diet and exercise can help you to shed some unwanted baby weight, it isn’t an effective solution for restoring your skin’s elasticity or spot-reducing stubborn fat from trouble spots like the belly and side flanks. If you find that your stomach is still protruding after your pregnancy and lacks firmness and tone, a tummy tuck procedure, or abdominoplasty, works to tighten weakened abdominal muscles, eliminate excess skin and even reduce or remove the appearance of stretch marks on the lower abdomen. In a traditional tummy tuck procedure, the underlying abdominal muscles are first repositioned and tightened to restore the structure of your midsection. Dr. Seify will then redrape the skin over the area, trimming away any excess tissue and tightening remaining skin. Liposuction may also be utilized during this procedure to remove stubborn fatty deposits on the stomach and restore your pre-baby contours. Mothers with limited excess skin and flab present beneath the navel may opt for a less invasive mini tummy tuck procedure to address concerns with their lower abdomen. Similar to the traditional tummy tuck, the mini tummy tuck aims to tighten lower abdominal muscles with mild to moderate flaccidity, and treats less severe skin sagging below the belly button. This procedure is also frequently paired with liposuction to eliminate fatty deposits or the “pooch” that can develop on the lower stomach.

Eliminate Problem Areas

While putting on some extra weight during your pregnancy is natural and provides the nutrients necessary to support your baby’s growth, it can be frustrating when excess fat pockets don’t respond to diet and exercise and stubbornly stick around long after giving birth. While not a weight loss procedure, many women at or close to their goal weight often select to add liposuction to their mommy makeover to effectively eliminate those problem areas that like to linger after pregnancy, such as on the midsection, love handles, thighs and buttocks. Traditional liposuction techniques work to safely and effectively eradicate fat cells by using an instrument known as a cannula to manually dislodge the fat from your targeted regions and then suction it out of the body. Depending on the size of your treatment area and your desired results, you may also opt for the gentler Smartlipo technique, which uses laser energy to pinpoint and liquefy your most stubborn trouble spots, and even works to tighten lax skin by stimulating collagen production. Mommy makeovers offer the perfect solution for addressing all of your post-pregnancy aesthetic concerns in one procedure. If you’re ready to reverse the toll pregnancy has taken on your body and restore your confidence – all in one procedure, Dr. Seify is ready to help you design a lasting treatment plan that empowers you to get back the figure of your dreams. Call our office today at 949-407-8265 to schedule your free in-person consultation and learn more.
Breast reconstruction is major cosmetic surgery procedure, which should only be undertaken by a How to Choose The Best Breast Reconstruction Plastic Surgeonhighly trained and experienced plastic surgeon. Patients should properly review the surgeon’s qualifications and credentials and visit their practice for a pre-op consultation to learn more about them. The final choice regarding a surgeon should be made only after careful consideration. Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Hisham Seify provides breast reconstruction surgery to patients in Newport Beach, Orange County, CA, and surrounding communities.

Professional Credentials

Dr. Hisham M. Seify M.D, Ph.D., FACS is a diplomate of the prestigious American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) as well as a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). Dr. Seify has extensive post-graduate training of almost 13 years. Some highlights of his professional career are as follows:  
  • Member, American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)
 
    • Member, American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS)
    • UCLA Assistant Clinical Professor
 
  • Sherrell Aston Award ASAPS 2007
  • Orange County Physicians of Excellence Award 2013-2017
  • US News Top Doctor of America 2012-2017
  Dr. Seify regularly updates his skills on new technologies and advancements in the area of breast reconstruction as well as other plastic surgery procedures. He incorporates the most ideal solutions for his patients. Dr. Seify and his perspicacious team are dedicated to providing patients with the highest quality standards and achieving safe and effective outcomes in each case.

Combining Science and Art

A breast reconstruction surgical procedure not only restores the appearance of the breasts, but will also help boost the patient’s self-esteem. The objective of the surgeon should be to create a new breast with a desirable shape while ensuring proportion and symmetry. There may be limitations on the availability of skin. However, the surgeon must employ the best technique to ensure that the outcomes improve the general physical profile and are desirable and natural looking. At the same time, the surgeon should perform the procedure in a conservative manner which conforms to the principles of science. This provides outcomes that are sustainable, healthy, and enhance the patient’s self-confidence. The surgeon can achieve these goals through a combination of both science and art to offer the most consummate results in breast reconstruction procedures.

Individualizing the Surgery

Dr. Seify will assess the patient’s personal and anatomical cosmetic requirements to develop an individualized breast reconstruction surgical plan. Rather than adopting an off-the-rack or cookie-cutter approach, Dr. Seify will strive for the most desirable results in the least invasive way. The judicious Dr. Seify may use breast implants or the flap reconstruction technique depending on the patient’s unique requirements. One goal that Dr. Seify focuses on during a breast reconstruction procedure is to ensure that the incisions are placed in inconspicuous areas or within the natural folds of the skin to achieve minimally noticeable scarring.

Adopting the Most Advanced Techniques

The committed Dr. Seify uses state of the art surgical techniques and advanced technology to provide safe and effective results in each breast reconstruction surgery. He regularly updates himself on new developments and innovations in the area while incorporating these techniques into his practice as required. Experienced cosmetic surgeon Dr. Hisham Seify receives patients from Newport Beach, Orange County, CA, and nearby areas for breast reconstruction. See more procedures and treatments by plastic surgeon Dr. Hisham Seify in Newport Beach, Orange County, Irvine, Anaheim, Fullerton, Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, CA and surrounding areas.
Choosing to go ahead with a breast reconstruction cosmetic surgery procedure is a life-altering Questions to Ask Your Breast Reconstruction Surgeondecision. The patient should make this choice after careful deliberation and after clarifying all her doubts and concerns from the breast surgeon. The patient will have an opportunity to ask questions at the time of pre-op consultation. Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Hisham Seify provides breast reconstruction surgery to patients in Newport Beach, Orange County, CA, and surrounding locations.

List of Questions

The patient should preferably prepare a list of questions in advance so that none of the pertinent questions are missed out. The surgeon will make sure to provide accurate and detailed answers to the questions and help her make a well-considered decision.
  • Are you an ABPS board certified plastic surgeon?
  • Have many years of training and experience do you have in the field of plastic surgery?
  • Have you previously performed breast surgeries?
  • What breast reconstruction surgery technique would you suggest in my case?
  • How much time will I be required to commit for the complete reconstruction process?
  • What will be the length of the reconstruction surgery inside the operating room?
  • Which surgical venue would you use for my surgery?
  • Am I a suitable candidate for breast reconstruction?
  • Are the results I am expecting reasonable?
  • Can you show me a few breast reconstruction ‘before and after’ pictures?
  • Where will the surgical scars be located?
  • What type of anesthesia would you use for this surgery?
  • What kind of lifestyle changes and preparation will I have to make before the surgery?
  • What will be the post surgical downtime and how many days of leave should I apply for at my workplace?
  • What are the potential risks and complications that I should know about before undergoing breast reconstruction?
  • Will I have any options for revision surgery if the final cosmetic outcome of my procedure is not as per what was planned?
  • What are the costs of a breast reconstruction, including all the pre- and post-operative costs?
  • Will your office be able to offer me assistance or guidance with regard to my medical insurance claim?
  • Can I review a few testimonials of past patients to learn about their experience with your practice?

Question about the Technique

The patient should ask the surgeon about the choice of breast reconstruction technique. Both breast implants technique and flap reconstruction have certain benefits and limitations. If the patient is unclear about the techniques, they should ask questions and gain clarity from the surgeon.

Question about Tissue Expander

If the patient does not have adequate skin in the breast area to support the implant, the surgeon may suggest a tissue expander technique to support the implant. The patient should ask whether tissue expander will be required or not in her case, and determine whether she is comfortable with the surgeon’s recommended plan. Reliable cosmetic surgeon Dr. Hisham Seify receives patients from Newport Beach, Orange County, CA, and nearby areas across the horizon for breast reconstruction. See more procedures and treatments by plastic surgeon Dr. Hisham Seify in Newport Beach, Orange County, Irvine, Anaheim, Fullerton, Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, CA and surrounding areas.

Preparing For Breast Reduction Surgery

shutterstock_115732669Breast reduction is a body contouring cosmetic surgery aimed at reducing the size and volume of breasts to make them more proportionate to the rest of the body. During the initial consultation, the surgeon will discuss various aspects of breast reduction, and provide guidelines for advance preparation. A well-prepared patient will typically feel more confident and go through the procedure with greater ease and assurance. She will have better resilience to sustain the anesthesia and surgery, and is more likely have a fast recovery. Profound, judicious, and board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Hisham Seify provides breast reduction surgery to patients in Newport Beach, Orange County, CA, and other cities and neighborhoods in this part of The Golden State.

Prior to the Surgery

The patient should ideally complete the following tasks as part of preparation ahead of the scheduled date of breast reduction plastic surgery:
  • Arrange to send the past health records from the physician and specialist to the office of the surgeon for their review.
  • Prepare a list of current prescription and non-prescription drugs, including herbal supplements and vitamins, to show to the surgeon.
  • Getting any lab tests, x-rays or mammograms done as advised by the surgeon.
  • Alter the schedule of current prescription drugs in consultation with the doctor, if required by the surgeon.
  • Stop smoking for a certain time period prior to the breast reduction surgery, as per the surgeon’s instructions.
  • Complete any pressing tasks at home or office well in advance to ensure a stress-free recovery.
  • Arrange for a responsible person to drive the patient back home after breast reduction surgery.
  • Arrange for aftercare, if necessary, for the first few days after the surgery.
Adhering to the surgeon’s pre- and post-op care instructions is the best way to increase the chances of a safe breast reduction surgery and a speedier recovery.

A Day before the Surgery

A few simple guidelines can be followed just a day before the breast reduction procedure. The staff at the surgeon’s office may provide written or oral instructions to the patient as follows:
  • Obtain sufficient rest and have a good night’s sleep before the day of surgery. This is not the time to be staying up late partying with friends and getting drunk. This is also not the time to load up on pizza, cake, and potato chips.
  • If general anesthesia is involved, do not eat or drink anything for at least eight hours prior to the surgery.
  • Do not consume alcohol for 48 hours prior to the scheduled time of surgery.
  • Avoid wearing any makeup, body piercings, jewelry, or contact lenses on the day of the surgery.
  • Preferably wear comfortable and loose fitting clothes on way to the surgery center. The top should have buttons or a zip in the front.
  • Diabetic patients should get their vital parameters checked on the morning of the surgery.
Mild pre-operative anxiety and stress is normal for any patient a day before the surgery. The surgeon may prescribe a calming medication to be taken on the night before the surgery. Patients should arrange essential items at home in advance to avoid any inconvenience on their return home after the surgery. Perceptive, kind, and cosmetic surgeon Dr. Hisham Seify receives patients from Newport Beach, Orange County, CA, and nearby areas across the landscape for breast reduction. See more procedures and treatments by plastic surgeon Dr. Hisham Seify in Newport Beach, Orange County, Irvine, Anaheim, Fullerton, Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, CA and surrounding areas.

Choosing The Best Breast Reduction Plastic Surgeon 

gsdgBreast reduction is a major cosmetic surgery procedure that should ideally be performed by a highly trained and experienced surgeon. The patient should be discerning about her choice, and should carefully assess the surgeon’s professional credentials. A relationship of trust and open communication should be established between the patient and the surgeon for best outcomes. Dr. Hisham Seify is a prolific, innovative, and board certified plastic surgeon providing breast reduction and various other procedures. Dr. Seify follows a patient-centric approach and adopts state of the art surgical techniques and technology to deliver best results in a procedure such as breast reduction. He provides breast reduction to patients in Newport Beach, Orange County, CA, and other towns and suburbs in this region of the southwest.

Professional Credentials

Dr. Hisham M. Seify M.D, PhD, FACS, is a diplomate of the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and a member of the prestigious American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). Dr. Seify has nearly 13 years of post-graduate training behind him. Key highlights of his professional career include:
  • UCLA Assistant Clinical Professor
  • Member, American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)
  • Member, American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS)
  • US News Top Doctor of America 2012-2017
  • Orange County Physicians of Excellence Award 2013-2017
  • Sherrell Aston Award ASAPS 2007
Dr. Seify regularly stays updated with new developments and innovations in the field of breast reduction and other plastic surgery procedures, and incorporates the best solutions for his patients. Dr. Seify and his dedicated team members are driven by a single-minded commitment to provide the highest standards of care to every patient and achieve safe and desirable results in every case.

Why Choose an ABPS Board Certified Surgeon?

Dr. Seify is a board certified from the pre-eminent American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). ABPS is only plastic surgery board in the US that is recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties. When a patient chooses an ABPS board certified plastic surgeon, they are automatically assured that the surgeon would have undergone a certain minimum number of years of training specifically in the area of plastic surgery. ABPS board certified plastic surgeons typically invest in high quality standards and best practices, adopt cutting edge surgical techniques, pursue continuing education, and follow the latest safety protocols to deliver the best outcomes to their patients. Each year only a select number of surgeons are awarded this coveted board certification.

Combining Art and Science

Dr. Seify combines the best principles of both art and science to create deeply satisfying outcomes in breast reduction surgery. He has an artistic eye to recognize and appreciate subtle differences in symmetry, form and shape. A comprehensive surgical approach combining art and science allows Dr. Seify to keep the patient’s health and safety as the top priority, while at the same time, produce outcomes that are attractive, natural looking, and long lasting. That is impressive and it is not intelligent to take this for granted. It is based on skill as well as extreme effort. Dr. Seify takes pride in his work and his work bears this out. Every decision that Dr. Seify and his team take with regard to breast reduction and other cosmetic procedures, it has the patient’s priorities at the center. His practice is based on integrity and ethics. Majestic and dependable cosmetic surgeon Dr. Seify receives patients from Newport Beach, Orange County, CA, and nearby areas for breast reduction. See more procedures and treatments by plastic surgeon Dr. Hisham Seify in Newport Beach, Orange County, Irvine, Anaheim, Fullerton, Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, CA and surrounding areas.

Breast Reduction Plastic Surgery

Facelift Plastic Surgery Types of Lifts, Cost, Recovery Newport Beach | Orange CountyConsultation is the first and one of the vital stages in a breast reduction cosmetic surgery procedure. To make the most of this opportunity, the patient should be prepared to engage proactively with the surgeon. The foundation for a successful breast reduction surgery will be created with a good pre-operative consultation. The surgeon will prepare a customized breast reduction plan to meet the unique needs of the patient based on the feedback collected during the consultation. Remarkable, cordial, and board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Hisham Seify provides breast reduction and other procedures to patients in Newport Beach, Orange County, CA and surrounding communities.

Health Evaluation

To begin with, the surgeon will perform a basic health exam to assess the patient’s candidacy for breast reduction plastic surgery. The patient’s overall breast anatomy, amount of excess fatty tissue in the breasts, degree of skin laxity, type and quality of skin, and the size and position of nipples will be considered. The surgeon may also order specialized mammograms in a few cases. The surgeon will check with the patient whether she experiences any pain in the neck, back or shoulders due to heavy and pendulous breasts. They will also review her past medical records. Body weight and measurements will be checked to plan for a proportionate breast figure.

Patient’s Personal Cosmetic Goals

The patient should be forthcoming about her personal cosmetic needs and aspirations with regard to her shape and appearance of breasts. Based on her inputs, the surgeon will determine the extent of size reduction required and whether breast lift may have to be performed in conjunction with breast reduction. The patient may select images from magazines or websites to show to the surgeon during the consultation about the kind of breast figure she desires. Accurate inputs from the patient will help the surgeon create a customized breast reduction surgery plan to meet her specific goals.

Developing Expectations

During the consultation, the surgeon may show breast reduction before and after photos to the patient. This will enable the patient to understand what to expect and what not to expect from the procedure. The surgeon will also answer the patient’s questions and concerns on all aspects related to breast reduction surgery. The surgeon may also provide testimonials of past patients to let the patient know about their experience with this surgery.

Pre- and Post-Surgery Care Instructions

As part of preparation for breast reduction, the patient will have to follow a few do’s and don’ts. Certain types of medications and nutrition supplements may have to be stopped for a few days before the surgery. Smokers will be required to stop smoking for a certain time period before and after the surgery. The surgeon may also guide the patient about arranging for transportation on the day of surgery, hiring a nurse for aftercare if required, and applying for at least a week’s leave from the workplace well in advance. Costs, insurance, and financing options are also issues that should be clearly discussed at the time of initial consultation. Perspicacious, wonderful, and cosmetic surgeon Dr. Hisham Seify receives patients from Newport Beach, Orange County, CA, and other towns and neighborhoods in this region of the state for breast reduction surgery. See more procedures and treatments by plastic surgeon Dr. Hisham Seify in Newport Beach, Orange County, Irvine, Anaheim, Fullerton, Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, CA and surrounding areas.
NewportPlastic