Charlotte Doctors

What Should I Possibly Expect For My Tummy Tuck Results If I Keep Losing Weight? (photo)

I am 26 yrs old & have had 2 C-sections. I'm 5'4" exactly, 185lbs & have a good amount of muscle from working out throughout my life. Since I had my babies, I found that I can lose weight everywhere BUT my 'fat roll' that hangs over like a flap of skin. I have continued to lose weight and will continue even after my TT. I was 145lbs at my comfortable weight and would like to eventually get there. My question is, what can I expect to have after my TT now & later if I do lose more?

In general, it is best for potential tummy tuck patients to be at or near their "goal" body weight.  The benefits of being close to that weight include: 1. Decreased risk of surgery  2. Improved results  3. Lower chance that a revision will be required  4. Potential for improved healing.   We all realize that getting to that ideal weight can be extremely challenging and frustrating.  There are, therefore, certain patients that I will consider for abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) despite being overweight.  I try to evaluate each patient individually and provide them with enough information and advice to make an informed decision.  Based on your photograph, I would strongly encourage you to lose some more weight before proceeding with a tummy tuck.  Best wishes.

Eric T. Emerson, MD

Charlotte Plastic Surgeon

Do I Need a Lift? I Just Want Implants. (photo)

Hi i am terribly upset, i have had my consultation today and have been told i need a lift! i am only 20 and am not prepared to have the lollypop scars as i really feel i dont need a lift. I am after a small D cup hopefully (but would be content with a c) I just want a much rounder look. Round and fake looking but not set high up on my chest.

I am unable to give a definitive answer without an examination and discussion, but based on the photograph that you provided, you should strongly consider a breast lift.  Your nipples (especially the right nipple) are on the lower poles of your breasts.  The photograph also shows significant asymmetry of your breasts.  While the lift will cause some scarring, it will also improve your breast shape.  You should meet again with your plastic surgeon and ask to review a number of pre/post-operative photographs.  Evaluate carefully patients with nipples on the lower pole of the breast and then consider their final result.  Good luck.

Eric T. Emerson, MD

Charlotte Plastic Surgeon

What Should I Use when I Massage Upper Eyelid Scars Scars?

Hi, I had upper eyelid surgery 3 weeks ago. My doctor told me to massage the scars twice a day with Tobradex ointment or vitamin E as he said that I had some irregularity in the stitches on one eyelid that should eventually flatten out. Which is the best stuff to massage the scars with? Can I use kelo-cote to massage the scars instead of vitamin E or Tobradex? Thanks.

I always have my patients avoid Vitamin e. A great choice is the Avene Cicalfate cream which has zinc, sucralfate copper and avene spring water to promote healing. Very popular healing and moisturizing cream.A thick moisturizing cream with no fragrance should work also.

Elizabeth F. Rostan, MD

Charlotte Dermatologist