Silicone implants are breast implants that are filled with a silicone gel. Many patients find that silicone breast implants look and feel more like natural breast tissue. Silicone breast implants are made of a silicone outer shell and are filled with a thick, silicone gel that holds its shape even if punctured and/or leaks. Silicone breast implants are less likely to ripple and can be more advantageous for patients that have less natural tissue to work with, such as exceptionally thin women or those who are undergoing breast reconstruction. Saline implants are breast implants that are composed of a silicone outer shell filled with a sterile saltwater solution that is easily absorbed by the body in the rare case that a rupture or leak occurs. Saline implants are round in shape and are ideal for patients who would like a more dramatic result. They may result in less visible scarring as this type of implant is filled after placement, making a smaller incision possible.

A breast lift improves a drooping appearance in the breasts by removing extra skin and tightening the skin of the breast area, thereby “lifting” the breasts to a firmer position. A breast lift can also reposition and improve the appearance of the areola (the dark-pigmented skin surrounding the nipple). Although a breast lift can provide a more youthful-looking bustline, it does not add volume or fullness to the breasts. However, this can be achieved by a breast lift in combination with breast augmentation.

Liposuction typically involves the insertion of long metal tubes called cannulas to suction out fat cells in the targeted area. The cannulas are moved back and forth underneath the skin, vacuuming out excess fat deposits for a better contour. Liposuction is typically an outpatient procedure using local or general anesthesia, and generally takes less than two hours to complete. The Long Island Plastic Surgical Group is home to two new operating rooms at our Garden City facility. These new operatories are fully equipped and accredited by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities, Inc. (AAAASF), certifying them as facilities that strive for only the highest standard of care.

Vaser LipoSelection® is an ultrasonic liposuction technique that uses sound waves to liquefy fat in the target area before it is removed. With Vaser LipoSelection®, our doctors can remove larger quantities of fat in concentrated areas. The Vaser LipoSelection® procedure begins with a tumescent fluid comprised of an anesthetic, saline, and epinephrine being injected into the area targeted for treatment. This prevents loss of fluid during the procedure and makes fat removal easier for the surgeon. Sound waves are then transmitted to the cannulas (long, thin tubes used to suction out fat cells) which breaks down the fat and liquefies it. The liquid fat is then suctioned out. Incisions for Vaser LipoSelection® are typically extremely small and can be easily hidden with clothing or swimwear. The Vaser LipoSelection® procedure usually takes less than two hours to complete and can be performed on an outpatient basis under local or general anesthesia.

Depending on the technique used, total liposuction recovery usually takes about two weeks or more, though this can vary if additional procedures are performed, such as in a mommy makeover. Patients can expect some degree of bruising and swelling in the first few days after liposuction. Some liposuction procedures will require patients to wear a compression garment for a few days after surgery to facilitate the healing process. Over the course of the recovery period, the full results of liposuction should become apparent. Patients are generally able to resume normal daily activities about one week after the procedure.