A. Michael Sadove, MD

It is difficult to give you advice by viewing your single image, but the most striking feature that I notice is the asymmetric (uneven) appearance of your areola (dark area around nipple). I would first consider seeking consultation with someone experienced in areolar tattooing for breast cancer reconstruction.

Your image gives me the impression that you do not have any excess in body fat, but if this is not the case, you may also consider fat grafting to your right breast which might help with some of the unevenness. Thank you, Dr. Michael Sadove

Dear Stella,

As others before me have advised, only you can determine whether making the changes in the appearance of your nose is “worth it”. The changes that you indicated in your diagram are “fixable”. Recovery time is a concept that is difficult to define. In general there will be a two-to three-week time that discoloration can be expected. Swelling is greatest in a six-week to six-month range, with the greatest amount of swelling resolving in the first six weeks. I would advise you to limit exercise for the first two to three weeks and minimizing contact activity for six weeks.

I hope that helps with the questions you submitted. I think that if you are “uncomfortable” with your nose, you should at least consult with a board certified plastic surgeon that can carry out a proper examination and help you with your decision. I hope you have a great day as well!

Michael Sadove, MD

Dear Amy,

It is natural to worry during the early stages of "recovery" from a tummy tuck. I tell my patients that they should expect an 18-24 month period following the surgery before final results are seen. Your photos look as if you are still in this "scar maturation phase". Trying to classify the area you are concerned about (dog ear vs fat) does nothing to resolve your concern but certainly adds to your anxiety.

I agree with your doctor that the best plan is to allow further healing to occur. If you are not happy with the appearance when the scar has "matured" (gone from red to white) you and your doctor should outline a solution which may be carried out in the office. Until then, try to focus on the improvement that you have seen with your surgery. I think you will be surprised how much improvement is still ahead!

A. Michael Sadove, MD

Dear nany97,

If I understand your question correctly you are asking: is it safe to have surgery to reduce the size of your nose at 16 years of age? My simple answer is yes.

Assuming you are otherwise healthy and don't have any unusual problems (such as being treated with growth hormone for skeletal delay) it is probably safe to begin discussing surgery.

Since you are legally not yet able to sign an informed consent, your process should start by speaking with your parents about your concern. The next step could involve checking with your family doctor to make sure there aren't any health concerns of which you are not aware. Finally, you need to seek out a plastic surgeon that has experience with nasal surgery and communicates well with you. The process can be stressful, and there is the possibility for disappointment or even secondary (revisional) surgery. This is difficult at any age but perhaps more so at 16 years. Ask yourself if you feel you can cope with this possibility.

I am not a "big fan" of computer imaging, but rhinoplasty is one procedure where I feel it may be helpful in communicating realistic post-surgery potential outcomes. If your doctor doesn't have imaging available, it may be helpful to cut out images of noses that you see as your desired outcome. See if your doctor feels this is achievable.

By the time you go through the suggested steps above, you will probably be older than sixteen!

A. Michael Sadove, MD

Dear CoffeeAddict,

I think you are asking two separate questions, and I will address them individually. I do believe that it is possible you may enjoy your vacation 3 weeks following your contemplated procedure.

But, it is also possible that you will wish you didn't limit your vacation by not being able to lift your suitcase, or possibly having a wound healing problem that requires dressings under your “tropical attire”. Even worse, you may have to cancel your trip because of unexpected complications. (If you do decide to go, trip cancellation insurance would be a wise purchase.)

The second part of your question… returning to your nurse midwife position. You should usually wait 6 weeks. Whatever you decide, good luck with your surgery!

A. Michael Sadove, MD