There are many reasons why people decide to undergo a certain type of surgery; it could be out of necessity to address a medical problem; others decide to get reconstructive surgery to correct birth defects or any other physical aspect that was altered due to trauma, while some turn to cosmetic surgery to enhance their appearance and give a boost to their self-esteem. Whichever the reason may be, having surgery is no small feat, and there are several steps before and after that one must follow to ensure that the procedure is a success. 

One of the most common surgeries around the world is breast augmentation or augmentation mammoplasty with it representing 17.6% of all plastic surgical procedures[1]

This type of surgery can be both cosmetic and reconstructive, and some of the main reasons why people turn to it are the following:

• To enhance their physical appearance.
• To reconstruct their breasts after a mastectomy.
• To modify or increase the size of their breasts due to unevenness or pregnancy.

Before surgery, it’s important that you’re aware of what this procedure entails; from the preoperative process to the recovery process so that you’re mentally and physically ready for what your body is about to go through. At LIMARP®, our team of surgeons, led by Dr. Liza María Pompa González, first examine your medical history to determine if you’re a candidate for this surgery. If so, they will discuss your options and create a treatment plan that suits your needs and expectations.

They will also discuss your recovery treatment and provide a set of instructions, along with a timeline, that you must follow to avoid any postoperative complication and ensure that the surgery in its totality is a success. In this article, we’ll discuss more about breast augmentation, the recovery timeline, what signs of complication to watch out for, and a few recommendations.

For more information about the breast augmentation procedure and the services we provide at our clinic, we invite you to read the following post on our website or to schedule an appointment with one of our doctors. 

Breast Augmentation: A Brief Explanation 

Breast augmentation is a cosmetic or reconstructive surgery that uses implants to either increase the size or change the shape of healthy breasts. It can also be applied to correct congenital defects of the breasts and the chest wall. Once your doctor confirms you’re a candidate for this surgery, they will go over the procedure so that you’re informed on what’s going to be performed on your body.

The surgery can be completed in about one to two hours and these are the steps that are performed during a breast augmentation procedure [2]:

• Anesthesia. Breast augmentation is typically performed under general anesthesia, regional anesthesia with sedation can also be used according to each patient’s case. 
• Incisions. Once the anesthesia kicks in, your surgeon will create an incision. The type and location will depend on the goal of the surgery. However, most incisions are placed in the crease under the breast, the armpit, or around the areola. Your plastic surgeon will strategically place the incisions to minimize scarring, as well as its visibility. 
• Implant placement. Once the incisions are made, the breast implants will be placed either above or beneath the pectoral muscle. Our team will discuss your options with you in detail during your initial consultation.
• Stitches. After the implants have been placed, the incisions will be closed with surgical sutures. In most cases, absorbable stitches will be used; if not, your doctor will give you indications on how to take care of them to avoid infection during your recovery and tell you when to come in so they can remove them. 
• Bandages. Your plastic surgeon may place surgical drains in your incisions to help reduce swelling and inflammation during your recovery process. You will also be fitted for a compression garment which will help support and contour the healing tissues around your breasts.

Recovery Timeline

It’s important to highlight that since everyone’s body and situation is different, there is no exact timeline for recovery. However, a full recovery can take on average from six to eight weeks.

Once you’re out of surgery, your doctor will examine your overall health and provide an estimated timeline for your recovery. Next, we’ll go over the different stages of the postoperative process and what you can expect.

First of all, we recommend that you have everything ready at home prior to your surgery. This means having a comfortable recovery area where you can relax and be comfortable; this includes having easy access to everything to avoid unnecessary movement, such as food, water, medication, extra pillows, and entertainment. 

Immediately after your breast augmentation procedure, you will be groggy and probably sore due to the anesthesia. You’ll be monitored during the first few hours until your surgeon clears you to go home, and because of the lingering anesthesia effects, you’ll need someone to drive you home and to assist you around the house for the remainder of the day. Before you leave, your doctor will wrap your breasts with a bra or elastic band so that they’re supported during your recovery.

Within the first week of your recovery process, you might experience the following:

• Pain and discomfort that will progressively fade.
• Minor bleeding at the incision sites.
• Bruising and swelling around the breasts.

To manage the pain in the first few days after your surgery, your doctor will likely prescribe pain medication or recommend that you manage it with over-the-counter painkillers. Once it subsides, you will gradually return to your daily activities, but be sure to get your surgeon’s approval. Most patients are able to return to work a week into their recovery process and your doctor may even recommend that you take short walks to get your blood flowing and prevent blood clots. 

Although light bleeding in the first few days is normal, talk to your doctor about any rising concerns or if the pain becomes unmanageable. 

After the first week, the bruising and swelling, as well as the pain should  have subsided considerably, but your doctor will suggest you keep your activities light and to avoid strenuous activity, such as heavy lifting and rigorous workouts. You may still experience tightness around your chest, which is perfectly normal because the breast implants are still settling.

You’ll progressively feel better in the following weeks and months after your surgery, but you should still consult your doctor before taking on new or old activities that require a lot of effort. To have a successful recovery, we recommend you be patient with your progress and to follow your doctor’s indications in order to avoid any kind of complications. 

Keep in mind that you will have to wear a bra at all times during your postoperative process, which is why we recommend you get a recovery bra, which will also help reduce the pain and swelling you’ll experience throughout the first weeks. These bras are specially designed to maximize post-op comfort, but they also provide implant stability, increased circulation and mild compression to ensure proper lymph drainage; some styles even have bands that help you comfortably accommodate any post-op swelling that occurs [3]. 

Other recovery tips your doctor will suggest include:

• Incision care. Your doctor may suggest you wear bandages or apply ointments to keep the incisions clean and to prevent infections during your recovery. Follow the instructions your doctor gives you and apply any changes they might suggest during your follow-up consultations. 
• Take your medication. Pain medication will help ease the discomfort in the first weeks post-op and if your doctor prescribed antibiotics, be sure to complete the dose that was given to you.
• Wear loose clothing. Aside from the recovery bras, we recommend that you wear breathable clothes so that you’re comfortable throughout your recovery. Avoid any tight clothing that might increase the pain around your chest or that limits your movement. 
• Follow a healthy diet. Part of your postoperative process includes adding a healthy nutritional plan that will help your body recover. This plan may vary according to your diet preferences, but lean protein, fruits, and vegetables are highly recommended.

These are just some tips that you can follow to ensure a safe and speedy recovery, but keep in mind that each patient’s process is different and that your doctor may have more or different suggestions that depend on your specific case. They may also vary if you suffered from any complications during or after the surgery, and although they’re not that common, you should be aware of the possibilities. 

Some of the complications include:  

• Scarring that changes the breast shape or around the implant.
• Breast pain and numbness.
• Undesired or poor results, such as asymmetrical breasts or bad implant position.
• Changes in nipple shape or sensation.
• Seroma or implant leakage. 
• Breastfeeding problems. 

If you experience any of these complications, contact your doctor immediately. Some of them are treatable, but if necessary, you may need surgery to replace or remove the implants. The results from breast augmentation surgery last around 10 years before the implant shells rupture or leak, and you’ll need surgery to replace or remove them.

Contact Us to Learn More

If you’re recovering from breast augmentation surgery and want to know more about the recovery process, schedule an appointment with one of our doctors. We can help determine the right treatment for you. Contact us online anytime or give us a call at (619) 373-0229.

References

[1] Jalalabadi, Faryan MD*; Doval, Andres F. MD†; Neese, Virginia BS‡; Andrews, Elizabeth BS‡; Spiegel, Aldona J. MD† Breast Implant Utilization Trends in USA versus Europe and the Impact of BIA-ALCL Publications, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery – Global Open: March 2021 – Volume 9 – Issue 3 – p e3449 doi: 10.1097/GOX.0000000000003449

[2] “Transform the Size, Shape and Symmetry of Your Bust with Breast Augmentation”. https://www.limarp.com/en/services/plastic-surgery/breast-augmentation/ (Accessed June 22, 2022). 

[3] “Breast augmentation recovery – what you need to know”. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/breast-augmentation-recovery-what-you-need-to-know (Accessed June 23, 2022).

One of the most common surgeries to date is the liposuction, whether it’s for reconstructive or cosmetic reasons, many patients are interested in this type of surgery because of what the procedure entails. It can be performed alone or as a complementary surgery to the abdominoplasty, also known as the tummy tuck, to give the stomach a smoother, more toned appearance. If you’ve recently had a tummy tuck and want more information about the liposuction, we invite you to read the following article.

If you want to know if you’re a candidate for the liposuction, your doctor will go over your medical history and carry out an in-person examination to evaluate if it’s the right procedure for you. Once it’s decided, they will give you a set of preoperative instructions to make sure that your body and mind are prepared for the surgery. Keep in mind that these instructions will be strict and that it’s important that you follow them to avoid any kind of risk during the liposuction.

Once you’re out of surgery, your aftercare process will begin and you will be given new indications so that your body recovers appropriately. At LIMARP®, Dr. Liza María Pompa González and our team of surgeons are by your side in every step of the way, making sure that your aftercare process goes smoothly. They will also answer any question you may have pertaining the postoperative process and will likely refer you to a dietitian so that they can create a nutrition plan to help you keep the weight off.

This article will focus on the aftercare process following a liposuction, as well as what the procedure entails and some of the possible risks that may occur if you don’t follow the instructions your doctor gave you. Keep in mind that liposuction is not a fool-proof solution and to be consistent with your weight loss journey, you should incorporate a healthy diet and physical activity to your daily routine. 

What’s Liposuction?

A liposuction is a procedure commonly used in plastic surgery to remove fat and while it’s considered to be generally safe, not all surgeries are equal because they depend on the amount of fat that’s being removed and the anesthesia (general, regional, or local) that will be applied. Surgeons use a cannula and negative pressure to suck out the fat and the techniques may vary according to how the cannula works or if the removed fat will be used as a filler for other parts of the body.

Liposuction can be performed on many areas of the body, but is most commonly used to modify the following body parts

• Flanks
• Abdomen
• Upper arms
• Buttocks
• Hips
• Inner thighs

Although liposuction is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries, there are studies that conclude that it’s not an effective remedy for long term weight loss and it doesn’t affect obesity-related conditions. After recovery, the body’s overall fat returns as it was before the surgical procedure, regardless of diet and exercise regime, and the increase is most notably on the abdominal area. The patient may also experience excess visceral fat around the internal organs which can cause other diseases such as diabetes. 

The downsides of liposuction to treat weight loss are well known, but this procedure is still used for aesthetic improvements and body contouring. It’s important that you speak to your doctor about your expectations and what can be done if you regain the fat that was lost after liposuction.

For more information about liposuction, we invite you to read the following article on our website or to schedule an in-person appointment with one of our doctors.

Aftercare Process

As is the case with most surgeries, there are several aftercare steps you must take following a liposuction to make sure that your body heals properly. The amount of time you remain at the hospital following your liposuction will depend on the quantity of fat that was removed from your body, but patients usually get to go home a few hours after the surgery. Once you’re discharged, your doctor will provide a set of aftercare instructions that span over several months.

Each patient recovers differently and factors such as age and medical history can influence how long you take to heal. Next, we’ll present some of the aftercare instructions that your surgeon may suggest, as well as an estimated recovery timeline.

• First of all, it’s important that someone picks you up following your surgery. Due to the anesthesia and pain medication, you won’t be in any condition to drive home yourself. 
• Soreness, bruising, and swelling are expected within the first few days of your aftercare process. To ease the discomfort brought by these side effects, your doctor will prescribe medication and instruct you to wear a compression garment, which you should wear until your doctor says otherwise because it reduces swelling and can help with soreness. Because the compression garment limits movement, it’s important that you reduce any physician activity that puts your body under too much stress.
• You should be able to return to work two weeks following the liposuction, but be aware of how your body responds to you going back to your old lifestyle. Soreness should be decreasing around this time and any abnormal spikes in pain are signals that your body is not ready for more demanding activities. 
• While the aftercare recovery can’t be put on fast forward, there are several steps you can take to make yourself more comfortable, such as eating healthy, staying hydrated, getting enough rest time, going on short walks to prevent blood clots, and asking for help to avoid putting your body through any strenuous activities. 
• A month after your surgery, it’s likely that you won’t be experiencing any more soreness or pain, and will only be dealing with swelling. You should start seeing results around this period of time and they will only continue to improve once the swelling subsides, which could take a couple of months more. Around this time, your doctor will also tell you that you can resume physical activity, like light exercises or stretching. 
• The last step in the aftercare process is removing the compression garment or bands that were placed on your body to achieve more defined contouring. Your doctor will review your progress and decide when you can stop wearing them. 

As we’ve mentioned before, each patient’s case, as well as their aftercare process, can be different and the timeline we presented may vary according to how well you followed your doctor’s instructions or how your body responded to the liposuction. Postoperative complications are not common, but they may arise and you should be aware of the signs in order to contact your doctor if you start experiencing them. 

Some of the complications include:

• Chest or leg pain
• Shortness of breath
• Fever
• Severe swelling

These complications are treatable and once you’re cleared by your doctor, you’ll be able to enjoy the results of your liposuction. We recommend, as part of your aftercare process, that you add physical activity and start following a healthy diet to maintain your form.

Contact Us to Learn More

If you want to know if you’re an eligible candidate for liposuction and need more information about the surgery, schedule an appointment with one of our doctors. We can help determine the right treatment for you. Contact us online anytime or give us a call at (619) 373-0229.

The rhinoplasty, better known as a nose job, is one of the most common cosmetic surgeries and there are many reasons why both men and women choose to undergo this specific procedure. One of the main reasons is for cosmetic enhancement, meaning that the patient is unhappy or uncomfortable with their nose, so they choose to modify it via a rhinoplasty, while others choose to go under the knife because they need reconstructive surgery to correct any nasal trauma. 

Like any other type of surgery, the rhinoplasty is not exempt from having postoperative indications given by the surgeon and you should follow these instructions during your recovery process to avoid any complications. Your doctor will probably prescribe medication for the pain and show you which signs to look out for that may be of concern. It’s important that you contact them if you start noticing any abnormalities since they could be signaling that something went wrong after your rhinoplasty.  

At LIMARP®, Dr. Liza María Pompa González and our team of plastic surgeons go over your specific case to design a treatment plan that will meet your needs and expectations. They will also answer all your questions pertaining to the recovery process and will give you an estimated timeline of when you can retake certain activities or daily routines. 

One of the most common questions that arises is about the use of makeup after a rhinoplasty and how long should the patient wait before they can use it again. This includes foundation, blush, bronzer, and any other product that goes over the skin, especially around the nasal area. This article will give some insight into what a rhinoplasty entails, the recovery process, and how long you should wait before applying makeup to your face. If you have any lingering questions after reading the article, whether it’s about the postoperative process or the surgery itself, we invite you to contact your doctor so they can address any doubts.

What is a Rhinoplasty Surgery?

As we previously mentioned, a rhinoplasty is a cosmetic or reconstructive surgery that modifies the shape of the nose, which is made up of bone and cartilage. Before the surgery, your doctor will start a preoperative process that may include reviewing your medical history, a physical exam, photographs for a before and after assessment, and a discussion about your expectations. Some patients choose the rhinoplasty for cosmetic reasons and they should be aware that other physical modifications may be needed to match the new nose structure. 

When it comes down to the surgery, your doctor can use two different methods to perform: an open rhinoplasty or a closed one. For the first one, they will create an incision along the cartilage that runs between your nostrils, known as the columella, while the latter consists in creating the incisiones inside your nostrils. The technique that the surgeon chooses depends on the shape of your nose and your postoperative goals and no matter which is performed on you, our team’s expertise will ensure that you have discreet scarring. 

For more information about the rhinoplasty, we invite you to read the following article on our site or to schedule an appointment with us, we’ll be more than happy to answer any questions. 

The Recovery Process

Following your surgery, the pain and swelling will be more prominent during the first week of recovery and it’s likely that you will also have bruises underneath your eyes and around your cheeks. This usually takes up to two weeks to subside, but it’s important to highlight that all swelling goes away after one year, which is how long the tissues on and around the nasal area take to fully heal. 

Some indications that your doctor may recommend to ensure a smooth recovery include:

• Resting in your bed with your head raised higher than your chest. This will reduce or prevent bleeding and swelling.
• Keeping the internal dressings for at least seven days.
• Changing your gauze as directed by your doctor.
• Avoid strenuous activities and showers, opting for baths instead
• To avoid constipation that can lead to extra effort, eat high-fiber foods.
• Gently brush your teeth.
• Don’t rest eyeglasses or sunglasses on your nose for at least four weeks.

Another question that some patients may have is when they can start to wear makeup again, especially to cover up the subsequent bruises that appear around and on the nose. Next, we’ll address those questions and also explain the risks that come with applying makeup too early in your recovery process.

Using Makeup After a Rhinoplasty

Your doctor will recommend that you stop applying makeup and other skin care products, especially on and around the incision areas to avoid the risk of infection. They will also suggest avoiding adding pressure to the area because it could reopen the incisions, hindering the recovery process.  

The waiting depends on several factors, such as the type of rhinoplasty that was performed on your nose. If your procedure was an open rhinoplasty, you should wait at least two months before applying makeup, although you could start once the stitches are removed. However, be mindful of the amount of makeup and where you put it, since you should still avoid the incisions. 

If your doctor performed a closed rhinoplasty, you will have no external wounds and your recovery time will be shorter. Technically, you should be able to wear makeup a few days after your surgery, but keep in mind that your nose cast should remain dry in the first weeks. This means that removing makeup may dampen the cast. 

If you do choose to apply makeup shortly after your rhinoplasty, we have a few suggestions on how to do so in a mindful and safe manner:

• Use clean brushes. It’s very important that you keep the nose area clean while the incisions recover and if you’re not careful while applying your makeup, you’re at risk of getting an infection due to the bacteria. 
• Be gentle. This goes for applying and removing makeup because adding pressure to the area may cause irritation. 
• Don’t use powder or foundation. These types of makeup usually block your pores and you want your skin to be able to breathe so that it can heal properly. 

Contact Us to Learn More

If you have more questions about the postoperative process following a rhinoplasty, schedule an appointment with one of our doctors. We can help determine the right treatment for you. Contact us online anytime or give us a call at (619) 373-0229. 

The abdominoplasty, better known as the tummy tuck, is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries today. Patients who qualify for this surgery are usually looking to remove excess skin that results from extreme weight loss, pregnancy, or age. The tummy tuck procedure helps tighten the abdominal muscles and gives the stomach a flatter, tauter appearance that may not be achievable through physical activity alone. 

For more information on the tummy tuck, we invite you to read this article where we go into full detail about the preoperative process, how the procedure is carried out, the possible risks, and what the recovery entails. An important section of the article is the one that explains the different types of tummy tucks, where you’ll be able to read that not all procedures are the same. Some, like the mini tuck, require a small incision and the results are not as extreme as the partial or complete tummy tuck, whose procedures may include other types of surgeries, such as a butt lift or liposuction.

Liposuction is also a very popular weight loss procedure and while most patients may only need a tummy tuck, the question of whether a lipo is necessary after the abdominoplasty also arises. At LIMARP®, Dr. Liza María Pompa González and our certified plastic surgery team review your medical history to guide through all the available options and ensure that you get the best treatment possible. This article takes a closer look at the liposuction procedure, its pros and cons, and if it’s a viable option after getting a tummy tuck.

Liposuction: How is it done?

A liposuction is a procedure commonly used in plastic surgery to remove fat and while it’s considered to be generally safe, not all surgeries are equal because they depend on the amount of fat that’s being removed and the anesthesia (general, regional, or local) that will be applied. Surgeons use a cannula and negative pressure to suck out the fat and the techniques may vary according to how the cannula works or if the removed fat will be used as a filler for other parts of the body.

Although liposuction is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries, there are studies that conclude that it’s not an effective remedy for long term weight loss and it doesn’t affect obesity-related conditions. After recovery, the body’s overall fat returns as it was before the surgical procedure, regardless of diet and exercise regime, and the increase is most notably on the abdominal area. The patient may also experience excess visceral fat around the internal organs which can cause other diseases such as diabetes. 

The downsides of liposuction to treat weight loss are well known, but this procedure is still used for aesthetic improvements and body contouring. As we mentioned before, it’s common for certain tummy tucks to include liposuction in order to achieve a certain look, and while many patients have found that lipo is not necessary after getting an abdominoplasty, others do consider taking that route. 

Liposuction After Getting a Tummy Tuck

It’s important to establish that while liposuction is common during a partial or complete tummy tuck, it’s not done on the abdominal area, but on the hips, flanks, and pubic area to achieve the lean and toned appearance many patients strive for after the surgery. Liposuction on the upper abdomen is commonly performed because the patient may experience weight gain in that area after the abdominoplasty, while the lower abdomen remains flat. It’s recommended that the patient waits three to six months until they’re fully healed to get liposuction, but keep in mind that the procedure alone won’t  provide long-term results. 

If you’re experiencing weight gain after your tummy tuck procedure, contact your surgeon to know if liposuction is the best solution for you.  

Contact Us to Learn More

If you’ve recently gotten a tummy tuck and want to know if liposuction is an option for you, schedule an appointment with one of our doctors. We can help determine the right treatment for you. Contact us online anytime or give us a call at (619) 373-0229.

Plastic surgery is a specialty that consists in altering or restoring the human body, and it’s divided into two categories: cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. The latter focuses on improving a body part’s function, while the former aims at enhancing the body’s physical appearance. Cosmetic plastic surgery can alter almost any part of the body and one of the most popular procedures is the abdominoplasty or tummy tuck, as it’s more commonly known. 

A tummy tuck can smooth the skin of the stomach and tighten any weak abdominal muscle after weight loss or pregnancy by eliminating loose, excess skin that won’t respond to diet and exercise alone. This surgery requires a horizontal incision that’s done across the abdomen, just above the pubic hairline. The size of the incision depends on the amount of skin that’s to be removed, and while scarring should be expected, the size of the scar will vary according to the patient and the type of abdominoplasty that was performed on them.   

At LIMARP®, in Tijuana, MX, our team of surgeons place incisions in a way that will make the subsequent tummy tuck scar as discreet as possible. This article focuses on what to expect when it comes to tummy tuck scars and what can be done to reduce their appearance.

Types of Tummy Tuck Procedures

Abdominoplasty procedures vary depending on the extent of the surgery, meaning that the tummy tuck can also include other types of cosmetic surgeries, such a thigh lifts or liposuction. This means that the duration of the surgery and type of incision made on the body are vastly different and each patient may have a different experience depending on the tummy tuck procedure they undergo. If you’re an eligible candidate for this surgery, our team of doctors will do a full examination to determine which type is best for you and your needs.

After undergoing any type of tummy tuck, patients should expect to get a scar across the abdomen. Scarring may be more or less visible depending on the type of surgery performed and the patient’s skin healing process. Here are some examples of the types of scars each subcategory of abdominoplasty may result in:

• Traditional tummy tuck: When a traditional tummy tuck is performed, an incision is made across the abdomen, stretching from one hip to the other. Patients having a traditional tummy tuck should expect their scar to run along the same path as the incision.
• Extended tummy tuck: Those who undergo an extended tummy tuck should expect more scarring than with a traditional tummy tuck. An extended tummy tuck requires an incision that runs across the abdomen and beyond the hipbone to remove excess skin from the stomach and back flanks. This type of surgery may result in a bigger scar. 
• Mini tummy tuck: A smaller scar may be expected by those who undergo a mini tummy tuck. Typically, the scar is only three to five inches in length.

Steps to Take Before Surgery

Taking certain steps before surgery can help patients gain a clear understanding of what their post-tummy tuck scar will look like, as well as help with recovery and incision healing. After deciding which surgery will be performed, your doctor will ask you to follow a list of recommendations to ensure that the tummy tuck and subsequent healing process, which includes how the scar heals, goes as smoothly as possible. 

Patients should stop smoking at least six weeks before surgery. This can reduce the risk of complications during the surgery and help with the recovery process, which in turn can allow the skin to heal and scar properly. Your doctor may also recommend to follow a well-balanced diet and to exercise to improve your metabolism and overall health before going under the knife.

If you have more questions about the preoperative process and what you can do to prevent further scarring, we recommend you speak with your surgeon about the size and location of the incision for the procedure that was decided for you. 

Steps to Take After Surgery

We strongly encourage our patients to follow all aftercare instructions for the best results with healing after a tummy tuck surgery, both internally and externally; this means that these instructions also include steps on how to protect your skin to make sure the scar is seen as little as possible. A tight, elastic bandage will be placed around your abdomen while you recover and it’s very important you listen to your doctor on how to care for it because if it gets infected, it’s more probable for the resulting scar to be more noticeable. They may also recommend the best positions, whether it’s sitting or laying down, for you to help ease the pain and to protect the healing skin.  

Here are some steps that can help reduce the risk of complications and help with healing and scarring:

• Not smoking for a minimum of six weeks after surgery, smoking can make the scar more prominent.
• Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for at least six weeks.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Eat a healthy diet of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.

It’s important to highlight that the recovery process may vary from patient to patient and to contact your doctor if you begin experiencing severe pain or other complications. 

Caring for Scars

A scar is expected after a tummy tuck, even if you followed a proper aftercare routine. For most people, the scar will appear red or pink in color and gradually fade over several months to a year. However, not everyone scars the same way and there are several factors that contribute to how a person heals after surgery. A person’s skin type and how prone they are to getting a scar can determine how the tummy tuck incision will heal, as well as the technique your surgeon used to carry out the procedure. Other factors that can determine how noticeable the scarring can be are how well the patient followed their doctor’s aftercare instructions and if they had complications during their recovery, such as infections.  

Once a tummy tuck incision heals, vitamin E oil may be applied to the scar to help keep the new tissue moisturized and if it’s used regularly, it may help diminish the appearance of the scar. Our team of doctors may also recommend other techniques or products that may help with clearing the scarring left by the incision. We also recommend protecting the scar against direct sunlight as much as possible and that the patient applies sunscreen on a regular basis to prevent the scar from darkening. 

If you’re not satisfied with the topical treatments for scarring, there are other procedures, such as laser procedures, that may help with reducing the visibility of the scar. However, keep in mind that while these procedures can improve the color and texture of the scar, they do not remove it completely. Schedule an appointment with your doctor to find out if these types of procedures are appropriate for you. 

Contact Us to Learn More

If you want more information about the tummy tuck or wonder if you’re an eligible candidate, schedule an appointment with one of our doctors. We can help determine the right treatment for you. Contact us online anytime or give us a call at (619) 373-0229.

Having a baby is one of the most wonderful experiences any mother can have. Pregnancy and delivery transform the self and body with many changes that come with child-bearing. Most of these changes are highly welcomed, but others… not so much.

While many women can easily go back to the body they had previous to their pregnancy, many others find it very difficult to get rid of all the different marks that pregnancy leaves on the body after having a baby.

One of the most obvious changes that the maternal body endures is the gain of “baby weight”, which is a normal and very healthy part of any pregnancy. However, once the baby is born, some mothers might have a very difficult time getting rid of the belly bump, which fixes stubbornly in the lower part of the abdomen. In many cases, this imperfection can get corrected with a healthy diet and exercise, but in many others, intense workout routines and eating sacrifices just won’t do the trick.

Another frequent concern has to do with breastfeeding. Every mother wants what is best for her baby, but breastfeeding usually takes a toll on the mother’s breasts, which may fall and become saggy. A mother’s breasts after breastfeeding can also seem uneven and un-symmetrical.

Stretchmarks are a big problem too. These unflattering marks might appear in the belly, in the buttocks and in the breasts due to important weight gain and considerable loss in skin elasticity. Although all these changes are usually very normal and tend to subdue in proper time, for many mothers, the burden of these changes become unbearable as they posit for many years without any progress and take a toll in their self-confidence and self-esteem.
In the cases of mothers that carried twins, triplets or more, the skin usually receives a higher toll as it stretches way beyond its normal size.

After birth, the skin becomes very lose and excessively wrinkly. Many mothers in this condition are left with a big amount of excess skin that makes them feel self-conscious or ashamed. This later becomes a greater issue when they look for clothes that are not very constricting or uncomfortable to wear.

At LIMARP International Center of Excellence for obesity, we got you covered. In addition to the latest in effective weight loss procedures, Dr. Liza María Pompa González is proud to offer plastic surgery at her Tijuana, Mexico, center. Facial rejuvenation and body contouring procedures are essential for bariatric surgery patients who want to get rid of saggy skin and for people who simply want to reverse signs of aging or imperfections after childbearing.
Since the effects of pregnancy and childbirth can seriously impact body shape and contour, the team at LIMARP® offers mommy makeover treatment as an alternative for any mother that is looking forward to flaunt a more attractive silhouette.

Mommy makeover treatment

The mommy makeover treatment is a set of different cosmetic procedures meant for women who had kids and have been struggling with getting their bodies back to shape and with feeling comfortable under their own skin. A mommy makeover combines three procedures that cover the most frequent body concerns in mothers:

• Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) In a tummy tuck, the plastic surgeon makes a horizontal incision in the area between the belly button and the pubic hairline in order to remove any excess fat tissue and to tighten the underlying abdominal muscles. This will eliminate the stubborn fat in your belly and will give a contoured waistline. In cases less severe, a mini-tummy tuck is also available.
• Breast lift In a breast lift, the plastic surgeon makes an incision that surrounds the nipple, extends downward and follows the lower crease of the breast to remove excess skin and breast tissue. This procedure accomplishes a more youthful breast contour as it eliminates any sagginess.
• Thigh lift (thighplasty) With this procedure, the plastic surgeon makes a vertical incision in the inner thighs to remove any excess skin and fat. The patient obtains leaner, more defined legs after his process.

The procedures included in the mommy makeover can be combined with other body contouring solutions that adapt to your personal needs and image goals. For instance, some patients might want to combine a breast lift with breast implants, some others would like a thigh lift along with a butt lift (gluteoplasty), or few might prefer a tummy tuck with a liposuction.
If you are interested in knowing if a mommy makeover is the right solution for you, please give us a call. We can guide you through all your options in plastic surgery.

The mommy makeover treatment is a set of different cosmetic procedures meant for women who had kids and have been struggling with getting their bodies back to shape and with feeling comfortable under their own skin.

Candidates

A mommy makeover is a highly customizable set of plastic surgeries. It adapts to meet each patients’ needs. But this doesn’t mean that a mommy makeover is meant for every mother. To receive this treatment, the patient should:

• Be in good medical health
• Be in her ideal body weight
• Have good skin elasticity
• Have finished having children and not be planning for more
• Have realistic expectations about the outcomes of plastic surgery
• Be willing to comply with every post-surgical instruction for recovery

It’s also important to consider that any candidate for plastic surgery should always avoid unhealthy habits such as smoking and heavy drinking. Smoking and drinking posit major risks for recovery after a cosmetic surgery. If you are interested in having a plastic surgery but you are in the habit of smoking, it is very important that you quit months before your surgery and that you renounce to the idea of getting back to the habit after the surgery.

When discussing the mommy makeover treatment, Dr. Liza María Pompa will explain everything that you need to know about the benefits, outcomes and risks of your procedures. Patients should be fully aware of their process so they can have realistic expectations about what this procedure can accomplish in their physique and self-esteem.

Recovery: What to expect

We want you to take a look at the mommy makeover recovery process and what is involved. This will help you understand what to expect after the procedure as you heal.

How Long Does the Recovery Take?

A full recovery from a mommy makeover can take several weeks depending on the types of procedures performed and on how many phases they were distributed. While it will take a while to return to many of your normal activities, you can gradually return to daily tasks if you follow pre-op and post-op instructions provided by the practice.

Common Side Effects

Plastic surgery carries with it the same risks and side effects of any surgical procedure. Some of the most common side effects after undergoing a mommy makeover include:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Sensitivity along incision sites

These are all normal surgical side effects and will dissipate with time. Resting will also avoid any major issues after your surgery. Following post-surgical instructions is a major part of avoiding any undesired side effect.

Recommendations for your Recovery

Focus on Rest

In the first week or so after surgery, your primary focus should be on getting rest. Resting is very important for your recovery. Do not overexert yourself as this can put strain on the incision sites and on your body as you recover. During this first period of your recovery, you should avoid walking up and down any stairs, lifting heavy objects and walking long distances. Failure to do so may lead to a rupture of the sutures or higher pain.

Take Pain Medication as Directed

Pain relievers are common after undergoing surgery. You may receive some prescription pain medication from our Tijuana practice. Prescribed pain medication will ease your pain for a faster recovery. Take these as directed, and do not exceed the maximum dosage. If you feel that your pain increases, make sure to call your doctor so he can check your dosage. As your pain improves, you can switch to over-the-counter pain medicine.

Walk to Promote Circulation as You Heal

While it will be a few weeks before you can exercise like you used to, you will need to walk for a few minutes each day in the first weeks after surgery. This light exercise helps promotes circulation and prevents blood clots from forming in the legs.

Think of this as a way to ease yourself back into your usual fitness routine. Increase the amount of walking you can do as your recovery progresses.

Moving your legs and feet are also a good exercise for your circulation. Avoid long periods of inactivity and move around the house for a few minutes very hour.

Attend Follow-Up Visits as Scheduled

There will be a few follow-up visits at our practice to monitor your recovery and address any issues should they arise. Be sure to attend all of these visits as scheduled. You’re also encouraged to contact our practice if any pressing concerns arise.

Returning to Normal Physical Activities

As the weeks go by, you will be able to return to work and many other regular activities, including moderate exercise and swimming. Be sure to gradually return to these activities as instructed by our team. Don’t push yourself too hard early on as you’re still in a crucial phase of healing. Be patient and allow your body to heal at its own time. You’ll be back to enjoying your normal activities very soon.

Long-Term Fading of Scars

Scars will be quite noticeable for the first few months after your mommy makeover. This is normal. But don’t worry, over time, scars will fade and you nor anyone else will be able to notice them. Many of these incision areas are easily concealed by many undergarments, tops, bottoms, and bathing suits, though.

Benefits

Getting a mommy makeover is more convenient and cost-effective than obtaining separate plastic surgeries. It allows for less consultation appointments, less recovery weeks, and less hassles with financing and billing. It also allows your surgeon to intervene with a more integral approach to meet your goals.

A mommy makeover also delivers more dramatic results at once, instead of having changes little by little during long periods of time. Your transformation will be accomplished much faster and so will your recovery.

With a mommy makeover you will be able to get rid of any stretchmarks left in your body after giving birth. As the surgeon removes excess skin, any evidence of your stretchmarks will disappear. Once you get the body contouring you’ve always wanted, you’ll be able to wear all the clothes you wished to return to and to those that you always dreamed of fitting in to.

This cosmetic procedure delivers long-lasting results you can maintain by yourself with healthy eating habits and frequent exercise routines, without the need of further interventions. Getting a mommy makeover can set you on a path for a healthier and more active way of living.

For many women, getting a mommy makeover is precisely the type of the boost they need for recovering their confidence and self-image. As the body feels and looks better than ever, you start feeling more vibrant, energetic, and psychologically strong and healthy.

A happy mom means happy children and happy family. Moms usually invest most of their time in caring for their kids and family, and very frequently they forget about themselves and their physical and psychological wellbeing and needs. Deciding to have a mommy makeover is a way of putting yourself first again and obtaining a very well-deserved self-care time. Taking care of your needs benefits your wellbeing and this will transmit to your loved ones too.

Plastic surgery at LIMARP

At LIMARP International Center of Excellence for obesity, located in Tijuana, Mexico, we offer a wide range of plastic surgeries. As a center of treatment for obesity, we offer different plastic surgeries meant for reconstructive purposes after bariatric treatments, but we also offer different cosmetic surgeries for patients that would like to correct imperfections and contour their body. Among the many plastic surgeries available in our clinic, are:

• Breast implants
• Breast augmentation
• Breast lift (mastopexy)
• Breast lift with implants
• Breast reduction
• Liposuction
• Mini-tummy tuck
• Tummy tuck (abdominal surgery)
• Thigh lift
• Rhinoplasty (nose surgery)
• Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery)
• Rhytidectomy (full face lift)
• Mid face lift
• Brow lift
• Gluteoplasty (butt lift)
• Post-bariatric plastic surgery

Of course, we also offer mommy makeovers, which include 3 different kinds of plastic surgeries: tummy tuck, thigh lift and breast lift. These are the areas that are the most usually affected after child-bearing. However, if there’s any other cosmetic intervention that you need, talk to your surgeon and we adapt your treatment plan to your personal needs. We know every body is different and every one needs a very different set of procedures for their treatment.

At LIMARP, our plastic surgery team is fully dedicated to your cosmetic goals. If you are interested in receiving plastic surgery, please call our clinic today. Our plastic surgery team will guide you through everything you need to know so you can make the best choice.

Plastic surgery in Tijuana, Mexico

Travelling to Tijuana, Mexico, to receive a mommy makeover is the most convenient and smart choice you can make. Tijuana is recognized as one of the most important destinations of medical tourism in Mexico and by having one of the most important cosmetic surgery industries in Latin America.

Half a million people travel to Tijuana each year to receive plastic surgery. Most people travel to Mexico to receive medical services because of our low prices and high-quality care. In Mexico, many medical procedures cost only a third of the market price for the same services in the United States. People can travel to Mexico, invest on airfares and hotel fares, and still save most of the money they would have spent only for their medical procedure in their home country.

Tijuana is the number one city in Mexico when it comes to international medical tourism. More than 2.5 million people travel to Tijuana each year to receive medical and wellness services, especially cosmetic and bariatric surgery, but also other medical services such as general surgery, therapy treatments, dental services, pharmaceuticals, even veterinary services.

LIMARP is an internationally certified bariatric center in the city of Tijuana that also offers cosmetic surgery for its patients. Its main focus is quality, excellence and safety. Our clinic has been certified as a Center of Excellence in Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery by the Surgical Review Corporation, a distinction that very few clinics have in Mexico. It has also been certified as a COVID safe environment by Mexican authorities such as the Secretariat of Sustainable Economy and Tourism of Baja California, and by international standards such as the Global Healthcare Accreditation Standards for Medical Travel Programs.

LIMARP is located in the business district of Tijuana, only 15 minutes away from the International Border of Mexico with the United States, right next to San Diego. Our top-of-the-notch facilities are in the business and commercial complex of Plaza Agua Caliente, in one of the Twin Towers, right next to the luxurious Grand Hotel Tijuana and the Tijuana’s Country Club that features an urban golf course. Our private recovery rooms have breathtaking views to the most dynamic area of Tijuana and to the beautiful green golf course.

If you are interested in travelling to Tijuana to receive plastic surgery at LIMARP, you might want to know about our all-inclusive packages. At LIMARP, we make your whole travelling and treatment experience easier with a special package that includes a two-night stay at our next-door Grand Hotel Tijuana and transportation from the airport to the hotel and back. This is the most convenient option we offer for patients travelling from abroad.

Financing options for cosmetic surgery

Our clinic is also eligible for medical financing. Cosmetic surgeries don’t qualify for insurance coverage, but there are many other financing options available. LIMARP is a registered provider for medical financing companies specialized in medical tourism expenses. There are many options available for receiving both bariatric surgery and plastic surgery at LIMARP. If you are interested in these services, don’t hesitate and call us today. We can guide you through your options.

Learn More About Mommy Makeovers

If you would like to learn more about mommy makeover treatment and recovery, or if you are interested in knowing if this cosmetic surgery procedure is the right option for you, please call our clinic today. You can schedule a consultation at LIMARP® by phone at (619) 270-8823 or you can reach our office toll free by calling 1-844-4LIMARP. You can also find us by sending us a message though our Whatsapp or though any of our social media pages. If you prefer, leave your information in our contact form and we will reach you through your phone. Our team of experts in bariatric and plastic surgery will be very glad to help.

Bariatric surgery significantly reduces the size of the stomach so that patients can lose a significant amount of weight in a short amount of time. As patients lose weight following their bariatric procedure, the entire shape of the body will change.

Weight loss can have a particular impact on the breasts. It is normal for women to lose volume and elasticity in the breasts following bariatric surgery. At our Tijuana, MX, bariatric and plastic surgery practice, we offer breast augmentation after bariatric surgery. Breast implants enhance the shape and volume of the breasts to give women back the curves they desire.

How Weight Loss Affects the Breasts

Both weight gain and weight loss affect the shape of the body and the elasticity of the skin. When a person gains weight, the skin stretches. As the skin stretches, it loses some of its elasticity. As a result, if individuals later lose the weight they have gained, the skin will only shrink back to a certain degree. When a person gains and then loses a significant amount of weight, the loss of skin elasticity is especially obvious.

Bariatric surgery patients often find themselves with loose, saggy skin. The skin around the breasts is particularly vulnerable to sagging. Sagging skin in the chest area is exaggerated by the loss of volume. When a person loses weight, they can’t control where it is lost from. Unfortunately, the breasts are often one of the first places to lose volume. Combined, the loss of volume and loss of skin elasticity can leave women with deflated, sagging breasts.

Benefits of Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation at our Tijuana practice allows women to restore the shape and volume of the breasts. Breast implants let women get back volume that was lost after bariatric surgery, and lifts the bustline so that is looks perkier and more youthful. By restoring curves to the chest area, we can further enhance our patient’s weight loss results, allowing them to enjoy the attractive body contours they have always desired.

How Soon Can I Schedule Breast Augmentation After Bariatric Surgery?

Our Tijuana patients are often eager to undergo breast augmentation after bariatric surgery, but it is important not to schedule treatment too quickly. The breasts will continue to change as weight is lost. Even though many patients lose the majority of weight within six to 12 months of their bariatric procedure, they may continue to shed pounds beyond that timeframe.

To provide our patients with the best breast augmentation results, we do not perform any cosmetic surgery until a patient has gotten within their ideal weight range and their weight has stabilized. In most cases, the weight stabilizes around 18 months to two years after bariatric treatment.

Contact Us

Whether you have a significant amount of weight to lose, or are interested in enhancing body contours after bariatric surgery, the team at LIMARP International Center of Excellence for Obesity can help. Send us a message at your earliest convenience to get more information about our services, or call (619) 373-0229 to schedule a personal consultation with one of our surgeons.