I just want to say Thank You to Dr Hardesty and staff! Bianca has been truly amazing with responding to my messages answering any questions I may have had and to the post op care she provided to me. The whole staff and Dr Hardesty made me feel extremely comfortable and truly care about their patients. I had a Tummy Tuck in July with muscle repair and lipo and everything went so smooth. No complications at all! The surgical center and their staff also amazing and I knew I was in great hands. I have wanted a tummy tuck for years after 3 c-sections and I'm so glad I chose Dr Hardesty to perform it.
My trust in plastic surgery is restored thanks to Dr. Hardesty and his staff. From the consultation to the day I had my procedure and my aftercare all my questions and concerns were addressed. Dr. Hardesty personally answered my call when I had a question. Overall I felt taken care every step of the way. I highly recommend his office.
Dr. Hardesty did my remove and replace breast augmentation on July 3rd. I am 6 days post op and I feel AMAZING! From the 1st moment I walked into his office to get my consultation, to the moment I left the surgery center, they treated me like family. I had 12 year old saline implants, and one had ruptured in April due to a mammogram. When I went for my consultation, Dr Hardesty was professional, caring and listened to all my concerns and what I was hoping my final look to be. I went with the “gummies” which I highly recommend. The entire office staff is amazing: sweet, knowledgeable, and professional. Narsel, the nurse, spent a lot of time with me making sure I got the perfect size for me and my body frame and that I was 100% happy. Elizabeth was wonderful about explaining the financial process, and the whole staff remembered who I was after only one visit. I was nervous the day of surgery, but the staff and Dr Hardesty put me at ease. I could not possibly be more pleased with my results! They look exactly as I imagined and had explained to Dr the look I was going for. My pain was very minimal, I have next to no bruising, and I was up and moving the day of surgery with no issues (still following Dr’s orders, of course). Dr even gives you his cell number to text him with any concerns post op. Who does that?! No one! That is just one reason he is the best! I go to echocardiogram school, and I was fine to go to school the following weekend. At school, all my classmates said how amazing I looked and at least 6 of my fellow students asked for Dr Hardesty’s contact information for a breast augmentation consult. I highly recommend if you are thinking about ANY cosmetic procedure, go see Dr. Hardesty! He is the BEST and his bedside manner matches his surgical skills! 10/10 would recommend him to anyone seeking cosmetic surgery. He did my daughter’s breast implants 3 years ago, and she did as amazing as well. If you want your surgery done right and would like to go to a surgeon and an office that makes you feel like family, do yourself a favor and book a free consultation!
I had an open rhinoplasty done by Doctor Hardesty in January 2023 at the age of 30. I did not like the hump on my bridge and I wanted a generally smaller & more feminine nose. Doctor Hardesty was very kind from the beginning—he explained to me that he did not perform the typical “nose job” nose—meaning the stereotypical ski-slope nose job nose (nothing wrong with that look). Dr. Hardesty told me he was going to remove my hump, make the tip less “boxy” and other general refinements. The surgery and recovery went very well—there were no complications for either. I was instructed to tape my nose for several weeks (I cannot remember the exact recommended time) and continued to tape it for about three months. I was also recommended to use NewGel+ on my scar—I purchased both the original and sunscreen version to wear during the daytime. My scar has healed VERY well—I attribute that to Doctor Hardesty’s skills in combination with NewGel+. I am currently (August 2023) about seven months post-op and I am much happier with my new nose than I was with my natural nose. My only qualm with my procedure has been that I have a small hump on the bridge of my nose that replaced the old, much larger hump that was removed. I was initially upset over this and unsure if it was swelling or a boney callous. Seven months out, I believe that it is a boney callous that formed after the trauma done to my bridge—I do not believe this was due to inexperience of my surgeon or any errors during my surgery—I believe this is just how my body reacted to the trauma in an attempt to heal the area. I have read several articles discussing this occurrence—best case scenario, the callous may be reabsorbed by my bones and smooth out; worst case scenario, it remains as is. I brought this to Doctor Hardesty’s attention—he explained the possible causes and offered to further rasp (scrape) it down once I’ve healed enough. However, I have come to be okay with that minor irregularity—I think it makes my nose look natural and gives a little character. I will not be getting a revision. Overall, I would 100% go through Doctor Hardesty all over again for my rhinoplasty and would recommend him to others.
I went to Dr. Hardesty for gynecomastia removal surgery in 2021. My initial thought about his office was that the office staff were extremely helpful and responsive. They responded quickly and appropriately if I was communicating via email or phone. Whenever I needed help with anything, they were there to answer all my questions. Dr. Hardesty is a really friendly guy who is easy to communicate with. Regarding the surgery itself, I am satisfied with my results. It took an additional revision surgery to get satisfactory results, and it's not quite as flat as I'd like it to be, but after the second surgery, I have a chest that I feel confident showing. The surgery was not painful both times, but the drain removal process after the revision surgery was very painful. I think the main issues are that my chest isn't completely flat and that I had to take significant time off from weight training to heal twice. Having to stop training for six weeks after both surgeries. I understand revision is common in plastic surgery and I'm steadily returning to my old strength. Also, I wish there were more options for virtual post-op meetings. Overall, I give my surgery results an 8/10 and the client support a 10/10. I'm happy with my experience and I think you will be too if you go to him for this operation.
Procedure done: Breast Implant Removal, Total Capsulectomy and Breast Lift Here I am sharing my experience with Dr. Hardesty and staff: I called and spoke with Elizabeth (scheduler) to schedule my consult with Dr. Hardesty. She was very nice and friendly over the phone. She explained the expectations for my consultation and made me feel very at ease. My consultation was scheduled a month away but was placed on a waiting list and was seen sooner. After meeting Dr. Hardesty (virtually), I was impressed by the amount of information he provided me with. This was my 2nd surgeon consultation. He was very detailed on the process. Mind you, I was removing my implants due to weird symptoms I was experiencing related to BII. He was very supportive and wasn’t shocked as to the reason. He made me feel very comfortable about my decision. After my consultation, I was able to schedule my surgery with Elizabeth right after. Surgery was about a month and a half later. The surgery center is right next to his office. On surgery day, I was very nervous and with mixed emotions. I met the anesthesiologist and Dr. Hardesty before entering the OR. Dr. Hardesty offered to say a quick prayer before surgery, which made me feel VERY at ease! Surgery was about 3 ½ hours, it was longer than expected. The nurses there were super nice and attentive. My recovery was not easy! You need some help at home for the first week. The drains are no joke. I didn’t have drains for my BA so I didn’t expect for these to be an issue. They make recovery so much harder. And when they are removed, man, that’s not fun. Besides all the complications, Dr. Hardesty was beside me all the time. All his patients have his cell phone number in case of an emergency, which I had to use on a weekend. He’s very caring and kind. Thought-out my recovery, I had to visit his office in Riverside numerous times. From his front desk to his PA, they are all very friendly, kind and accommodating. His nurse, Narsel, is amazing. She’s super energetic, uplifting, and knowledgeable. She made every visit enjoyable regarding the circumstances. Kelsey Sandoval, PA-C is very attentive and kind. It’s been 6-weeks since surgery. The experience I had with Dr. Hardesty’s office was incredible from scheduling my consult to my last appointment today. I can’t thank them enough for taking care of me during some difficult times in my life.
Dr Robert Hardesty is amazing. He brought my sexy back lol he said a prayer with me before surgery, which made me feel so relaxed.His staff Narsel, Bianca,Kelsey and Elizabeth are all so caring they look after your needs. Dr Hardesty did a awesome work on me. My body looks beautiful. I tank him and his Staff for everything they have done. Best care ever.
I've had a pretty bad case of gynecomastia (in my eyes) for the past 10 years and I was extremely nervous that no doctor would be able to deliver the results the way I wanted. I searched for about 3 years looking for an experienced and affordable doctor in the riverside area. Once I was able to move forward financially I stumbled upon Dr. Hardesty from the RealSelf website and found he has a great understanding of gynecomastia and the fact he has been practicing for 35+ years! I also appreciated the virtual consult that was set up after the phone consultation because it provided a convenient, safe way to talk about my case without the risk of COVID spread and the use of fuel. Now it has only been 6 weeks from my procedure but at this point my chest looks as if I had nothing done to it and recovery was really not as bad as I thought. Overall, from the surgery to the last day post op, the team at Imagine Surgery has been nothing but welcoming and positive every step of the way. If you are thinking about getting any work done, I highly recommend to at least book a consult with this amazing team. I appreciate my new life feeling confident and being able to avoid thinking about my gynecomastia and I have to thank Dr. Hardesty and all the people at Imagine Plastic Surgery for my amazing results.
After waiting 41 years since the birth of my twins, I finally decided to get a tummy tuck, Dr. Hardesty was recommended by a friend and I'm so glad that I listened to her. Everyone at the office was very kind and Dr. Hardesty was very skilled at what he does. I highly recommend!
I hope my review helps anyone considering a BA. Ill start with my background: I am 35 years old, petite frame, narrow shoulders, 5'2, 108 lbs, not much chest muscle, 32 A cup (possibly a AA), mother of 2 girls, both who were breast feed. Went with 320cc Sientra Smooth Round Moderate (gummy silicone). Why a BA: Ive always had small breast but was never self conscience about them. Ive always been petite so my small boobies were perfect. After having and breast feeding my 2 littlies, it was as if the life just got suck right out of them. No joke they looked like 2 deflated balloons just hanging from my chest. Now i was extremely self conscince and began thinking about a BA. My husband was extremely encouraging in whatever i wanted to do. The process: I started with reading reviews on realself. I scheduled 3 consulations based on my location and reviews. I started this in 9/2021. Out of the 3 consults, i decided to go with Dr. Robert Hardesty of Imagine Pastic Surgery in Riverside, CA. Why Dr. Hardesty: 2 of the consultations lasted some 30 mins. That was it. Dr. Hardestys consultation was over the phone and lasted well over 1 hr. He went over EVERYTHING. His professionalism, mannerism, and knowledge during my consult made me feel so comfortable with him. I also met Elizabeth who is a sweetheart! I love that they were never pushy about me getting the procedure done with them. They gave me my quote and it was very resonable. I called 12/2021and scheduled my surgery for 3/2022, paid my deposit. My pre op was 3/10/22and surgery today 3/23/2022. The pre and surgery: At my preop appt i was given tons of information. Appt lasted 2 hrs. We did sizing and i received my rx for everything i would need before and after surgery. 3 days prior to surgery i was to do a wash with hibiclens 2xs a day and apply an antibiotic onitment to avoid any possible infection-love the preventative measures! The day is here!! My surgery was scheduled at 1245pm. Nothing to eat or drink 8 hrs prior. The staff at the riverside outpatient clinic were absolutely wonderful! The nurse went over my discharge paperwork, then the anestisiologist spoke w me. Finally dr hardesty came in to answer any last min questions. Once we were good to go, he prayed for me. That was so touching and it just made me feel so good. Hes amazing! The outcome: I went with 320cc on both breasts. I feel preassure but no pain. Soon as i got home i started on the oxy. Its been a few hrs and i can move my arms no problem. Stay on top of those meds. Tomorrow i have my post op appt. Ill try to update this novel of a review lol!!
Dear Ms. Jennifer Tran, Thank you for your information and questions. However without photos I can only provide you with general information. Nothing substitutes for a personal evaluation, a review of your medical history/medications and a face to face discussion of your options. However here are my comments: -like building a house … start with the foundation (surgical revision). -then paint the house (tattooing of brows). I trust you have chosen a Plastic Surgeon who is experienced and Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. In addition ideally a members of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (denoting by membership as having met additional criteria and a focus on Cosmetic Plastic Surgery). I wish you my best and success, R. A. Hardesty, MD, FACS Diplomate and Certified by the Am. Bd. of Plastic Surgery wwwimagineplasticsurgery.com 4646 Brockton Ave Riverside, Ca 92506 (951) 686-7600
Dear Ms. JenniferjenD-4, Thank you for your story, questions and posted photos. Unfortunately without an exam of your tissues and a complete review of your past medical history …. I can can only comment based your story and a single photo…. however I hope you find my comments helpful. My responses: 1)we all have both internal fat (located n your internal organs and pushing your belly outward) and external fat (on top of your muscles). Internal fat can not be treated by either liposuction or tummy tuck...only weight loss. 2)You did not mention your current height or weight. We often calculate body mass index (BMI) that helps us give you better advice. I recommend that you attain you goal weight prior to surgery. 3)If you have had children you most likely have a separation of the two vertical abdominal muscles (that are not repaired with liposuction). 4)their are three types tummy tucks: a) traditional (muscle repaired from breast bone to pubic bone) b) mini (muscle repaired from umbilicus (tummy button) to pubic bone) c) extended (like traditional tummy tuck but extends around at to hip area all will remove excess fat and skin of the lower abdomen. The remaining skin is stretched tight resulting in smooth abdominal appearance. 5liposuction will remove only external fat but may leave your skin loose and hanging. liposuction will not repair separated muscles 6)both liposuction and tummy tuck are often done together, except in the upper abdomen (May reduce blood flow and cause healing/flap problems at the tummy tuck incision. 7)the types of liposuction are: a)traditional suction asst. Liposuction (SAL) b) ultrasonic asst. liposuction (UAL) c) power asst. liposuction (PAL) d) laser asst. liposuction (LAL) e) water asst liposuction (WAL) are all effective and are secondary to the experience of the Plastic Surgeon 8)non surgical methods to help "shrink skin" after liposuction use RF: a) Vellashape III b) Thermi tight 9)Non surgical (ultrashape) is for minor isolated diet resistant areas. Conclusion: 1) based on limited information and not being able to evaluate you in person I would recommend you reach your goal weight and then have a traditional tummy tuck and liposuction to contour the flank areas. 2) I suggest you make several appointments with different Plastic Surgeons who are Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and ideally members of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (denoting by membership as having met additional criteria and a focus on Cosmetic Plastic Surgery). My best, R. A. Hardesty, MD, FACS Diplomate and Certified by the Am. Bd. of Plastic Surgery Inductee Real Self Hall of Fame wwwimagineplasticsurgery.com 4646 Brockton Ave Riverside, Ca 92506 (951) 686-7600
Dear Ms. Prestigiousnikki, Thank you for your question. Cosmetic Plastic surgery is totally elective and should be done only when you are in optimal condition. I would ask your plastic surgeon to put you in contact with the anesthesiologist who will be putting you asleep and get his/her opinion. Alternatively make an appointment ASAP with your primary care provider who can perform a physical exam and order basic lab work. Over the counter medications can help with symptoms but will not decrease time of recovery. Suggest drinking lots of fluids and getting plenty of rest. I realize a significant amount of planning, taking time off to recuperate and desiring to have the procedure performed… however we all want a successful surgery and reduce the odds of complications… I trust your chosen Plastic Surgeons is a experienced and Certified by the American Board of Plastic and ideally a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (denoting by membership as having met additional criteria and a focus on Cosmetic Plastic Surgery). My best wishes, R. A. Hardesty, MD, FACS Diplomate and Certified by the Am. Bd. of Plastic Surgery wwwimagineplasticsurgery.com Awardee: RealSelf Top 100 4646 Brockton Ave Riverside, Ca 92506 (951) 686-7600
Dear Ms. Knitypixy, Thank you for your story, questions and photos. Nothing substitutes for a personal evaluation and a face to face discussion of your options Unfortunately without a examination I can advise you in general terms, however I hope you will find them helpful. PHYSIOLOGY Breast "sag" or "hang" because the "skin bra" is larger than the breast tissue. Over time the weight of breast tissue can continue to stretch the skin and acts like a "rock in a sock". Some women develop breasts that sag but more often the cycle of expansion and contraction of breast tissue (during pregnancy and/or after weight loss) results in a permanent stretching of the skin. Technically the "viscoelastic elastic" properties of the skin have been irreversibly altered. An analogy is like a pair of panty hose that have lost their elasticity. Unfortunately there are no known reliable non surgical techniques to significantly shrink the skin. BREAST LIFT Mastopexy (breast lift) involves shaping the breast, repositioning the nipple areolar complex (NAC) and when needed reducing the size of the NAC, and by removing excess skin that causes the sag of the breast. The nipple is left connected to the breast tissue. Each of the below techniques involves a progressive removal of excess skin and builds on each other to lift and contour the skin "bra" to the shape of the breast desired. SHAPE Depending on how much excess skin and desired shape the three main types: 1)Peri areolar doughnut shaped scar around NAC. Primary result is elevation of the NAC. Minimal shaping . 2)Vertical lollipop shaped scar. Elevation of the NAC and shaping the breast in a horizontal plane. More shaping 3)Inverted "t" anchor shaped scar. Elevation of the NAC, shaping the breast in both a vertical and horizontal and plane. Most shaping. Depending on your desires, shape and look of the breasts your chosen Plastic Surgeon will decide what type of Mastopexy is required. I request that patients bring in photos of "ideal" or "model" photos to better help me understand what the patients needs, wants and desires are. SIZE Breast size will not significantly change because skin is only resected. SENSATION The nerve to the nipple areolar complex (NAC) is directly under the NAC and is rare to be disturbed by removing the excess breast skin during a mastopexy. The surrounding breast skin may have some short term numbness but usually returns. UPPER UPPER POLE FULLNESS Current mastopexy techniques will not often maintain over the long term the "upper pole" fullness patients desire. A small breast breast implant is placed to can be to create the upper pole contour and will not increase size substantially. SCARS Scaring is always a concern. However there are various postoperative "anti scar" programs to optimize, reduce and treat scars. In my experience if the desired goals of shape of the breasts and positioning/size of the NAC is obtained .... The patients rarely complain about the scars. AREOLAR SIZE The size of the areolae (pigmented area around the nipple) can be not only changed location and size. I recommend that you take a “bottle cap” press firmly over your areolae and choose the diameter you desire SHAPE OF THE BREAST I suggest you you collect several "model", “inspirational” or "goal" photos. This will help determine which procedure is needed/required to reach your goals. RECOMMENDATION Collect your goal photos, determine the diameter size of your areolae and then make a appt. with Plastic Surgeon, who is experienced, who is Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and ideally a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (denoting by membership as having met additional criteria and a focus on Cosmetic Plastic Surgery). My best wishes, R. A. Hardesty, MD, FACS Diplomate and Certified by the Am. Bd. of Plastic Surgery Awardee: RealSelf Top 100, Inductee RealSelf Hall of Fame wwwimagineplasticsurgery.com 4646 Brockton Ave Riverside, Ca 92506 (951) 686-7600
Dear Ms. Lupus Warrior, Thank you for your question. Based on your health story you are indeed a health warrior. Besides your autoimmune disease and renal transplant (which are not automatic contradictions to having surgery… other important health criteria need to be evaluated: cardiopulmonary status, weight (BMI), medications, support after surgery, etc…. My recommendation is that you meet with your internist first: -discuss your physical improvement desires (of course your Plastic Surgeon will be able to better advise you) - under go a full metabolic, cardiovascular work up to help determine if you can withstand the rigors of surgery. -you will need a formal a preop clearance from your internist with recommendations for perioperative care. -start a vigorous exercise program that focuses on your cardiovascular system (which will good for you even if you don’t have surgery) to optimize your health before surgery Now having done all of the above and assuming your doctor clears you for surgery you can embark on finding a local surgeon in your area that has the expertise, experience and willing to to take a medical challenging patient as you your self. You, I assume all ready realize you are at much higher risks and complications… being totally transparent you would need to be prepared for and accept the ultimate possible complication: death. I hope you have found my thoughts helpful. I wish you the best on your journey! Sincerely, Robert Hardesty MD Diplomate and Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery Medical Director of Imagine Plastic Surgery and Riverside Outpatient Surgical Institute