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Steven Bates, MD, MS

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
2581 Samaritan Dr., Ste. 102, San Jose, California
5 | 7 Reviews
11 Questions Answered
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QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Thanks for the question.  It is very common to have more pain in one breast after augmentation.  This can be brought on by increased activity which seems to be the case for you.  Typically, pain after breast augmentation is part of normal healing. Rarely, it can be the symptom of something more serious, such as an infection or bleeding.  If you experience new onset of pain after augmentation, it is always best to check with your surgeon. Usually just a little reassurance is needed and the pain will dissipate over time.  
provider-Steven Bates, MD, MS-photo

Steven Bates, MD, MS

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

5 | 7 reviews
Based on your photos, you appear to be a better candidate for a full tummy tuck.  A full tummy tuck will address more of the loose skin and will also tighten the muscles above the belly button.  The trade off is a longer scar, but the scar can be kept low so it can be hidden under clothes and bathing suites.  I recommend you see a board certified plastic surgeon so they can evaluate you with a complete exam.  
provider-Steven Bates, MD, MS-photo

Steven Bates, MD, MS

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

5 | 7 reviews
You would need to be examined in order to determine how much skin is safe to remove, but based on your photos, I think a low incision could be used to remove the tattoo and C section scar.  A lower incision would not necessarily leave a "poofier" mons.  The mons can be liposcutioned at the same time or even directly reduced to prevent this effect.  Lower scars sometimes require a small vertical component if the skin around the belly button can not be removed completely.  However, this is often preferable to a higher scar with no vertical component.  I don't think this would be needed in your case, but again would need to perform an exam to give you a more definite answer.

I hope that helps.  You appear to be a great candidate for this procedure.

Best,

Dr. Bates
provider-Steven Bates, MD, MS-photo

Steven Bates, MD, MS

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

5 | 7 reviews
Thanks for your question.  Your asymmetry was probably noticeable to your surgeon and that is why they recommended different size implants.  In this situation, it can be difficult to "dial in" the size when using gel implants because they come in fixed sizes.  The difference you see could be the from the differential in implant size.  However,  this could also just be differential swelling after surgery or an implant that is sitting a bit higher in the breast.  

First, I would recommend you see your surgeon to discuss this issue. If you are still early out from surgery (less than 6 months) then usually the best course of action is to wait.  The implants will settle and the breast tissue will become less swollen and a lot of early asymmetry will go away with time.  After 6 months, a revision might be required to change the position of one of the implants or to re-size the implants.

I hope that helps.

Dr. Bates.
provider-Steven Bates, MD, MS-photo

Steven Bates, MD, MS

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

5 | 7 reviews
Thanks for the question.  Your incision appears completely normal for 4 weeks post procedure.  The color and texture are to be expected this early after surgery.  It will take at least 6 months for them to soften and fade.  Most of that will happen over the next few months.  I would reassure you that this is completely normal for this type of surgery.  The incision can not be seen when your eye is open and you can always use a little make up to soften the color.  As always, discuss this with your surgeon, especially before you use anything to cover the incisions.
provider-Steven Bates, MD, MS-photo

Steven Bates, MD, MS

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

5 | 7 reviews
Thanks for your question.  You definitely still have some residual swelling only one month after surgery.  It can take 3 to 6 months for all of the swelling to dissipate.  However, when you smile there will always be some "folding up" of the lower lid skin because the facial muscles contract and push the soft tissue upward.  This can be softened by botox treatments to the muscles around the eyes and can be a nice adjunct to lower lid surgery. Finer lines can also be treated with some post op laser resurfacing.  Most surgeons will want to wait until all the swelling is completely resolved before adding any non-surgical treatments.  As always, discuss these issues with your surgeon.
provider-Steven Bates, MD, MS-photo

Steven Bates, MD, MS

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

5 | 7 reviews
You look like a great candidate for surgery.  Typically, I tell MM patients that full recovery is about 4-6 weeks.  Most patients can return to non-physical type work within 2 weeks.  I do ask my patients not to do any exercise for 2 weeks after surgery to ensure that they heal without complication.  After 2 weeks, patients can do light cardio (walking or eliptical)  activities and then full cardio (running, treadmill) after one month and full core after 6 weeks.  Judging from your experience with C-section recovery you should do well, but every surgery is different and you absolutely have to follow your surgeons recommendations for returning to activity and exercise.  Best of luck to you.
provider-Steven Bates, MD, MS-photo

Steven Bates, MD, MS

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

5 | 7 reviews
That is a great question that often gets overlooked as patients approach surgery.  Communicating your desired result is the most important thing you can do to ensure a good outcome.  Probably the best way to get a sense for this is to have your surgeon go through "before and after" photos of patients similar to you in body type.  While this doesn't guarantee you will get the same result, it will at least make sure everyone is on the same page with regard to expectations.  Best of luck to you.
provider-Steven Bates, MD, MS-photo

Steven Bates, MD, MS

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

5 | 7 reviews

Will I be able to avoid a lift? (Photo)

Asked By:AnonymousANSWERS (1)
Judging from your photo, you can most likely have a primary augmentation without a lift.  As you note, you do have some breast asymmetry but it is not significant and can be dealt with at the time of augmentation.  As always, meet with a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss these issues before you proceed.
provider-Steven Bates, MD, MS-photo

Steven Bates, MD, MS

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

5 | 7 reviews

Do I need a lift and implants? (Photo)

Asked By:AnonymousANSWERS (1)
This is a very common question that I hear from patients. Based on your photos and your desired size you may need a lift. There are other factors to consder such as where the implant is placed (under the muscle versus under the breast tissue) and how tolerant you are of having scars on the breast. When you meet with a surgeon, you should have them address all of these issues to make the best decision for you.
provider-Steven Bates, MD, MS-photo

Steven Bates, MD, MS

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

5 | 7 reviews

Steven Bates, MD, MS reviews

Steven Bates, MD, MS

RATING DETAILS

5.0
7 reviews

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Steven Bates, MD, MS
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7 Results
Facelift

cmaser

Great Result Wonderful People

Dr. Bates did my facelift and I am thrilled with the results. People are always shocked when I share that I had one because the results are so natural and flattering. He is a kind and thoughtful surgeon. The office staff could not be nicer or more caring. I have friends that come from as far away as Washington and Idaho to see the surgeons at reveal.

Tummy Tuck

SamIamonbyebye

Rare perfection from this skilled surgeon & his stellar team

These days it seems earning “5-stars” is becoming almost commonplace – but, in my experience, Dr. Bates and his stellar team of professionals truly EARNED this rave rating of mine for Reveal Plastic Surgery. As I told him during my second post-surgery follow-up appointment, I literally CAN’T think of one iota of improvement needed as allllllll aspects of my interactions and patient care were simply exceptional, and flawlessly executed. Too bad I can’t give Dr. Bates & his team 10 stars as I gladly would! I had a tummy tuck as well as additional lipo a month ago, and also wanted to have some facial filler for the first-time (which was done 2 weeks ago by Dr. Bates himself). Every single interaction from my first conversation with the wonderful Tammy through the surgery process itself and aftercare has consistently been first-rate – including Dr. Bates’ very candid answers to my questions when I was asking about fat grafting as he explained why that wouldn’t be a viable solution for my particular need, and his detailed answer highlighted his thoughtful as well as thorough approach to evaluating and personalizing his recommendations. BTW, those considering a tummy tuck should be aware you need to check out a surgeon’s expertise in “creating” your new belly button as some apparently do a horrific job, but not Dr. Bates – he even somehow made my gallbladder surgery scars nearly disappear (what a pleasant surprise!). They have their own surgery center which was one of many things that helped me make the decision to go with Reveal after meeting with multiple other surgeons; and they also have two nurses on their staff, Shelly & Mary, who helped me via a number of calls both before and after my procedure, and Mary took good care of me on Surgery Day. They were both so warm, knowledgeable, helpful, and reassuring – and that’s the tone I consistently encountered with EVERY staff person at Reveal. Delightful professionals all. And I’m truly grateful for such a jaw-dropping outcome – my waistline has reappeared after being MIA for far too long! And I’m also so happy with the filler used to “erase” some irritating eyebrow creases. Overall, I am thankful indeed that I sourced such a high-caliber as well as caring surgeon in Dr. Bates, and want to publically extend my heartfelt Thanks to him and everyone at Reveal Plastic Surgery. Literally NO room for improvement….can’t get any better than that in this life!

$11,900Brazilian Butt Lift

lexistevens212

Happy with my new body - transformed athletic build to more feminine

I could not have made a better decision than choosing Dr. Bates as my plastic surgeon. I had been wanting a BBL on and off for years, as I had wanted to transform my athletic build to more feminine. When I consulted with Dr. Bates, I knew he envisioned everything exactly what I was hoping to accomplish with this surgery. The two most important things that stood out to me was his honesty about the results he could accomplish with one BBL surgery and the fact that he was not trying to sell himself. He really showed that he cares about his patients, which is why I chose to move forward with him, rather than various other surgeons in CA. During my consultation, he was also very honest about the complications that can happen with getting a BBL, and gave plenty of pamphlets explaining everything one should know before surgery. I had already talked myself out of getting a BBL various times because I would go read the horror stories about women going to Miami or Mexico to get a less expensive procedure done, but then are faced with numerous complications, and unfortunately, sometimes death. With Dr. Bates, because he showed he cared about his patients and was being honest about everything, I felt extremely confident in him and his staff. Fast forward to two days later, I was in the OR getting a BBL by Dr. Bates! Not to brag, but I had probably one of the best recoveries post BBL surgery. The day after my surgery, I had to stop myself from moving around too much. I felt amazing, only a little sore on my abdomen, back, and butt. A better word to describe the feeling was sensitive. I felt so good, and already happy with my new body, even though I had a lot of swelling. My 1-week post-op appointment with Dr. Bates made me feel like a million dollars, because I felt amazing and was healing very well. Of course, there are so many factors that play into recovery, but I can guarantee that a plastic surgeon who performed your surgery properly plays a large role. If you are looking for a plastic surgeon, I highly recommend choosing Dr. Bates. He is not only a phenomenal surgeon, but he is also a very down to earth human being. I made the best decision for myself when choosing Dr. Bates as my plastic surgeon!

Rhinoplasty

chanellet

Dr Bates is the best! I am very happy with my surgery, it’s me only better

I booked a rhinoplasty surgery with Dr Bates not knowing anything about him. After my consultation, I knew that I absolutely had the right Dr.! He really understood what I wanted and he delivered exactly what he said he would. I am very happy with my surgery, it’s me only better. If I get anymore plastic surgery I am with out a doubt going to Dr.Bates!!

Tuberous Breast Correction Surgery

Dazzling220496

Amazing and skilled PS - I got my BA/BL a week ago and he nailed it!

Dr Bates delivered an amazing experience from start to finish. I met with him for a complimentary consultation for breast augmentation and lift for mild tuberous breasts. The first encounter was super pleasant! His bedside manner is superb! He was clear in explaining what would give me the best outcome and answered all my (many) questions. He knew I had done my research and was very transparent about everything that could be done.I saw him a second time because I had even more questions, and he was just as kind as the first time. I had 8 other consultations, but ended up going back to Dr Bates because he gave me the best information and scenario for my particular case. Every appointment with him was this way. I got my BA/BL a week ago, and he nailed it!Even though my case was slightly complicated, his work looks fantastic and I'm thrilled with the results so far. I highly recommend him for all your PS needs. I also got Botox for my TMJ with him, and one syringe of Voluma, and I'm pleased with both! Dr Bates rocks!!!

Cyst Removal

teddybear5

Dr. Steven Bates always went the extra mile to help me

I've had two surgery done by Dr Steven Bates both times he made me feel very comfortable and confident that I was in very Good hands !!!!! The first surgery I had with Dr Steven Bates was on July 12 , 17 last year My First surgery was for a Csyt that I unfortunately got in my underarm that turned into a size of a Tennis Ball , I was sent to up to Dr Bates Office on July 7 ,17 because I already had an appt schedule to see him for a consult for plastic surgery for my Breasts . Which turned out to be a blessing because Dr Bates was able to see me on July 7 he examed my Csty and told me that I'm going to need surgery as soon as possible to removed the Csty/ Infection which turned out I had a staff infection too. I remember from the very first time meeting Dr Steven Bates he made me feel very comfortable and at ease from the moment I meet him because I was in tremendous pain the first time I saw him he just knew how to help me feel better , Dr Steven Bates rearrange his work schedule and set up my surgery for July 12 ( I saw him on Friday afternoon and then I had surgery Tuesday afternoon ) After my surgery and during my Recovery time Dr Steven Bates made sure he kept a close eye on me during my recovery to make sure I that healed and was well enough to go back to work . I definitely recommend Dr Steven Bates for you if you are going to have or considering plastic surgery Dr Steven Bates is awesome at what he dose he truly cares for each one of his patients and wants the very Best for you Updated on 7 Nov 2018: Dr Bates did wonderful job on my surgeries . I'm feeling great and I'm going back to work on 11-18-18 Dr Steven Bates is amazing Doctor he continues to Go the Extra mile with phone calls and answering questions that I might have. Dr Steven Bates truly Cares for all his patients

Breast Reconstruction

teddybear5

Dr. Steven Bates is an excellent doctor

Dr Steven Bates is amazing Doctor I'm extremly happy & thankful to have found Dr Bates Becuase he was able to give me back something that I thought was lost forever ( I'm a burn Survivor My Left breast was severely burned when I was only 13 years old I thought I would never have 2 breast again ) I had surgery on 8/07/18 Dr Bates did reconstructed surgery on my Left Breast and a Lift On my right Breast so that they Match . Dr Bates and I talked about how and what Dr Bates was going to do during my operation he wanted to make sure that I was happy and that I felted comfortable about my decision and most of all that I trusted Dr bates completely Happy to say Yes I Do ( Becuase he has given me back something back that I though was GONE forever ) Updated on 18 Oct 2018: I still recovering from my surgery that I had on Aug 7 because my burns scars take longer to heal than regular Skin .My Doctor thinks that I will be able to go back to on November 18 My Doctor has been there for me every step through my recovery either by seeing me once week or by calling me to see how I'm doing I'm so thankful to him and to My wonderful Husband Brian For being their everyday by my side taking care of at home I love you to the MOON & BACK Updated on 8 Nov 2018: Simply Amazing I have nothing but positives comments about DR Steven Bates It's been 3 months since I had my breast lift and breast reconstruction surgery with Dr Steven Bates . I received Excellent care from Dr Steven Bates and his Staff. I'm extremely Happy Please with my Amazing results from having my Reconstructive surgery done By Dr Steven Bates im so lucky & Blessed to have wonderful Doctor who cares and will always be there for you !!!!!