Dothan Doctors

I Had A Pulmonary Embolism 28 Years Ago. I Am Considering Having a Face Lift. Is There Still a Big Risk?

28 years ago I had a pulmonary embolism. At that time I was a heavy smoker and had traveled a long plane flight while feeling under the weather. I was hospitalized for about 2 weeks and took blood thinners for approx.6 months. I have had no other episodes or complications from this event and I quit smoking at that time. I am now 67 years old and am considering a 4-5 hour elective surgery for a face lift. Am I still at risk for complications because of the previous pulmonary embolism event?

In answer to your question, whenever one has experienced a pulmonary embolus in the past, he or she is then at increased risk, statistically, of deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolus in the future.  With that said, the details in your history indicate prolonged immobility during a long plane flight contributed to your pulmonary embolus.  A four to five hour face lift, whether under local or general anesthesia, is prolonged immobility.  The use of sequential compression device stockings, used appropriately, should greatly decrease your chances of a repeated DVT or PE during this procedure.  I think with appropriate use of the SCD stockings, you would do quite well.

L. Dwight Baker, MD

Dothan Plastic Surgeon

How Long After Breast Reduction Should You Wait to Sleep Without a Bra?

How long after breast reduction surgery should you wait before going braless(sleepig without)?

I recommend wearing a bra night and day (except for bathing) for six weeks after breast reduction.  I find that patients are more comfortable and obtain the best possible final result when following this recommendation.  They also minimize their risk of complications with this approach.

L. Dwight Baker, MD

Dothan Plastic Surgeon

How Are Lasers Used to Reduce Unwanted Breast Tissue in Male Patients?

In my experience in treating gynecomastia, I have found the optimal results are achieved using Vaser-assisted liposuction, often, but not always, in combination with direct excision of localized breast tissue underneath the areola.  The excisional procedure is added in those patients who on physical examination are found to have such localized tissue.  Vaser is a trade name for a type of device that delivers ultrasonic energy to the tissues to be removed by liposuction thus greatly facilitating their removal.

L. Dwight Baker, MD

Dothan Plastic Surgeon