Pleasanton Doctors

What Helps a Tummy Tuck Scar Result- Stitches on the Outer Layer or Glue?

I am going to have a tummy tuck and I know their will be a scar I was just wondering...as far as the best results when it comes to the outcome of your scar which is better for the outer layer of skin stitches or glue?

The best scar results from a type of closure which does no leave suture marks but Glue I feel is inadequate for a Tummy tuck closure. The suturing is very important and then Biocornium is apple=ied for 12 week to improve the scars healing.

Ronald Iverson, MD

Pleasanton Plastic Surgeon

What Do You Know About The Semielastic Scarless Serdev Suture Breast Lift?

I have been considering a breast lift, but am concerned about scarring and loss of sensation in the nipple. Today I found a procedure called the "Semielastic Scarless Serdev Suture Breast Lift". It appears that Dr. Serdev uses sutures to raise and secure the breast. I can't find any doctors who do this in the US. Couple of questions: 1. Does this really work, and is it practiced in the US? 2. How long do the results last? 3. Is the cost on par with traditional breast lift methods??

Thanks for your question -

In our Bay Area practice we frequently perform traditional and short scar / vertical scar mastopexy (breast lift).

The challenge with this procedure for many patients is the scar and plastic surgeons have been working for decades to find ways to minimize the scar while keeping the powerful and long lasting results of traditional lift techniques.

Unfortunately, no one has nailed a scar free technique.  Suture techniques have been tried in other areas (facelift, buttock lift, etc.)  Most of these techniques have been abandoned as reliable alternatives to traditional surgical techniques.

I would doubt that a suture technique would produce a long lasting change.  In addition, the concept of suture techniques in breast lifts makes even LESS sense than these same techniques in facelifts because with many breast lift candidates you really have an excess of skin that won't change.

I hope this helps!

Steven H. Williams, MD

San Francisco Plastic Surgeon

Should I Get a Mini Tummy Tuck or a Full? is There Any Non Surgical Options for Me? (photo)

So I had a baby 3 years ago and this completely ruined my stomach. I am 21 years old, I exercise regularly and have been trying EVERYTHING to get rid of this. Before pregnancy I was 115 lbs, I ended up weighing 180 lbs the day before delivery. Finally down to 133 lbs I am about ready to be able to wear a bikini. Is there any other options then surgery for me? I plan on having this done by june so please let me know soon!

Thanks for your question!

Based on your photo you have typical abdominal wall and skin changes post-pregnancy.  You may have a separation of your abdominal wall muscles, have stretch marks above and below the umbilicus and you have some adiposity around the belly button.

Typically this combination is best treated with a full abdominoplasty and muscle plication.  Be sure to find a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss these issues in depth as well as discuss potential treatment.

I hope this helps.

Steven H. Williams, MD

San Francisco Plastic Surgeon