esm_admin - Dr Marco

How Does Body Contouring Improve Your Health?

Posted on September 29, 2016March 24, 2026 by esm_admin

The benefits of body contouring surgery are more than just skin deep.

Losing a significant amount of weight is an accomplishment to be extremely proud of. Unfortunately, it also means having excess skin hanging off parts of the body. It also means having pockets of unwanted fat that don’t go away with exercise or diet. You may still be unhappy with your appearance despite losing weight.

That is when body contouring comes in.

WHAT IS BODY CONTOURING?

Post-weight-loss body contouring is a combination of procedures specially designed to enhance the body’s shape after major weight loss. It also increases the appearance of a toned body by removing the redundant folds of skin left over after the weight loss. These unwanted fat, which are resistant to diet and exercise, can also be removed via liposuction for a more streamlined body contour.

COMMON BODY CONTOURING TREATMENTS

Depending on the patient’s needs, they may undergo one or several procedures. It all depends on their problem areas and where they would like to have their body contouring surgery.

PROBLEM	SOLUTION
Loose arm skin	Arm Lift
Loose/sagging breast skin	Breast Lift (with/without Breast Reduction)
Loose thigh skin	Thigh Lift
Loose buttock skin	Buttock Lift
Loose back and tummy skin	Body Lift (with/without Tummy Tuck)
Pockets of unwanted fat	Liposuction

BODY CONTOURING IMPROVES YOUR HEALTH AND LIFESTYLE

Other than the obvious benefit of having a more contoured body, how does body contouring surgery actually improve one’s health?

Improved comfort. Large folds of loose skin pose a large range of medical problems, such as intertrigo—a bacterial, fungal, or viral infection that occurs due to the difficulty in keeping the fold of skin clean and dry. By removing all the excess skin, not only will you feel a huge sense of relief from the weight of the skin, but you will also be free of the constant need to take extra care not to aggravate the skin condition.

INSURANCE COVERAGE
Panniculectomy, the removal of overhanging skin, may be eligible for insurance coverage if it meets the medical criteria. Check with your insurance company to better understand what criteria you would need to meet for insurance coverage.

Sense of motivation to maintain weight loss. Your body mobility may increase post-surgery as excess skin will no longer be in the way when bending over and doing ordinary chores and exercising. The positive psychological effects will help improve the lifestyle and the desire to maintain that weight loss.

Enhanced self-confidence and self-esteem. With all the health and physical benefits, it is no wonder that many patients report body contouring surgery boosts their psychological health.

Better lifestyle. Lastly, research also shows that when people look and feel good, they are more likely to engage in more physical and social activities. They even enjoy an improved sex life. The result: an overall better lifestyle!

MY ADVICE FOR YOU: BODY CONTOURING SURGERY

Even though body contouring surgery has a multitude of benefits, it is still a surgery that requires careful planning and much consideration. There is also surgery downtime that requires you to be off work for some time.

It is also best if body contouring surgery is done when you are healthy and at (or near to) a healthy weight for at least six months.

Always look for an accredited plastic surgeon with a lot of experience in body contouring procedures to guide you in making an informed decision.

To learn more about post-weight-loss plastic surgery, do contact us at:
Dr Marco Faria-Correa Plastic Surgery
Tel: +65 64648075
E-mail: [email protected]
Web: www.drmarco.com

Disclaimer: The information contained in this post is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your plastic surgeon or other qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or discontinuing an existing treatment. Always speak to your healthcare provider about any questions you may have regarding a procedure.

Should You Combine Multiple Plastic Surgery Procedures?

Posted on September 15, 2016March 24, 2026 by esm_admin

A question that I regularly get is: “Can I combine my plastic surgery procedures together in one operation?”

The quick answer to this is YES!
But, it is important to take into account your overall health, while addressing all safety concerns first. Combining multiple procedures should also only happen when it benefits you. Every person is unique so the decision to combine or not will naturally have to be extensively discussed with an experienced plastic surgeon.

Nonetheless, there are some general advantages and disadvantages to having multiple procedures in one sitting. In this blog, I will offer my advice for anyone thinking of doing so.

ADVANTAGES OF COMBINING MULTIPLE PROCEDURES

Recovery – Combining multiple procedures in one operation means having to go through only one recovery as opposed to having multiple surgeries requiring multiple recovery periods. It also means needing less time off work and less trips to the clinic.
Costs and Time – Doing several surgeries at once is often more cost-saving and also time-saving than getting them done separately. Combining surgeries would mean that the pre-surgery preparation time required for each surgery (if conducted individually) would be saved, and time is money! Therefore, combining surgeries—one single anesthetist, one surgeon fee, one theatre booking and one hospital stay—definitely saves you time and money in the long run.
Anesthesia – Aesthesia presents one of the risks of operation, so the fewer times the patient is subjected to it, the lower risk of any side effects. (Although it also means having to be under anesthesia for longer, which can also be risky.)

DISADVANTAGES OF COMBINING MULTIPLE PROCEDURES

Complications – Combining multiple surgeries may increase the potential of complications, such as excessive blood loss during the surgery. This is why it is important for your plastic surgeon to be experienced to judge and decide if the operation should go on should any complications arise.
Trauma Limit – Even with today’s high standards of technology, any kind of surgery is going to have trauma on the body. There is a limit to the amount of trauma the body can take at any one time. Your plastic surgeon should be able to advice you on which combinations are recommended and which are not.

COMMONLY COMBINED PLASTIC SURGERY PROCEDURES

Combining breast lift with breast augmentation
Combining a facelift in Singapore with eyelid surgery
Combining rhinoplasty with chin implants
Combining liposuction with tummy tuck
Group of Mummy Makeover procedures
Group of Facial Rejuvenation procedures

I recommend combining minor surgeries, or a minor one with a major one to avoid complications and excessive time under anesthesia.

In some cases, I avoid combining non-sterile procedures (like rhinoplasty) with another procedure because it might increase the risk of infection. But sometimes, the sterile procedures can be done first to avoid the risk of infection. It actually all depends on each individual’s case.

FINALLY, MY ADVICE FOR YOU

Combining multiple plastic surgery procedures is not only possible but also very beneficial.

If you are looking to undergo any combination of plastic surgeries, ensure that your surgeon is highly experienced and licensed by the medical board in their respective countries. Only an experienced plastic surgeon can best decide if combining procedures is the best option according to your specific characteristics. Your health and safety should also be their first priority.

Once you have found a plastic surgeon, always discuss any concerns or questions you may have during a face-to-face consultation. This will not only allow your surgeon to evaluate your condition, but also allow you to see if you feel comfortable with them (trust is important!).

In Singapore, plastic surgeons must be accredited by the Ministry of Health Singapore. Check here: https://bit.ly/1smGHDq

All in all, the safety of my patients is my priority, and I will only proceed with multiple surgeries if I think it is safe and it benefits my patients!

To learn more about combining plastic surgery procedures, do contact us at:
Dr Marco Faria-Correa Plastic Surgery
Tel: +65 64648075
E-mail: [email protected]
Web: www.drmarco.com

Disclaimer: The information contained in this post is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, it is provided for educational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your plastic surgeon or other qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or discontinuing an existing treatment. Always speak to your healthcare provider about any questions you may have regarding a procedure.

Everything You Need to Know About Brazilian Butt Lift

Posted on September 8, 2016May 16, 2025 by esm_admin

The Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) is a procedure that is gaining a lot of popularity at my clinic, and there are many reasons why. If you are considering getting a BBL, there are quite a few things that you should know beforehand.

WHAT DOES A BBL ENTAIL?

A BBL is a form of buttocks surgery that not only reshapes but also enhances the size of the patient’s buttocks so that it better fits the figure and provides an attractive overall proportion.

It involves two procedures: liposuction and fat grafting.

First, liposuction removes excess fat from areas of the body, including the back, stomach, arms, thighs and hips. The fat cells are then meticulously processed, purified and strategically re-injected into varying depths in order to lift, reshape, and create projection on the buttocks.

WHAT TYPE OF RESULTS CAN I EXPECT?

The two-pronged approach to BBL reduces the waist (love handles) and sculpts the legs while creating a natural projection and lift in the buttocks. The result is a beautiful new ‘S’-shaped curve.

Sometimes, I will also do additional liposuction around the bottom of the buttocks to improve the appearance of lift and contour, resulting in perkier, youthful buttocks and a more curvy and sensual overall body profile. Since the fat is from your own body, there is no chance of rejection.

Compared to butt implant surgery, which only focuses on augmenting the butt, BBL targets the love handles, hips, and butt, offering a complete body makeover.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BBL & BUTT IMPLANTS?

Procedure: BBL uses your own fats to enhance the buttocks, while the butt implant procedure involves surgically inserting a silicone implant.
Targeted Area: BBL addresses the waist, buttocks and upper thighs, sculpting the body into an hourglass figure, while butt implants involve only increasing the size of the buttocks.
Suitable Candidates: Not everyone is suitable for BBL. A combination of BBL and butt implants might be used if you do not have enough fat for transfer to the buttocks.
Risk: As with all types of foreign objects inserted into the body—even pacemakers—butt implants have a rare chance of the patient developing capsular contracture. To read more about capsular contracture or rippling, check out my blog: https://www.drmarco.com/lets-talk-about-capsular-contracture-in-breast-implants/
Recovery: BBL generally has a faster recovery (3-4 days) than butt implant surgery (2 weeks).
Results: As BBL uses your own fats, the final result is very natural, smooth, and soft. Butt implants give a more firm and projected outcome.

WILL I NEED ADDITIONAL PROCEDURES OVER THE YEARS?

A properly done BBL should NOT require additional procedures, even after several years.

After a successful BBL, some of the fat cells injected into the buttocks are naturally absorbed back into the body. Those that remain will stay there for the rest of your life.

Like the rest of the tissue in your body, the grafted fat will grow and age with you. This is why I usually advise my patients to keep a healthy lifestyle with exercise and the right diet to help keep their buttocks looking great!

MY ADVICE FOR YOU: THE MOST IMPORTANT FACTOR FOR SUCCESSFUL BBL

A successful BBL largely depends on the plastic surgeon you choose. The surgeon’s patience, skill, and experience ultimately determine how well your BBL will look.

The surgeon should have a high level of patience to take the fat, purify it, and meticulously load it into syringes in a non-traumatic method. The surgeon must then strategically re-inject the fat in small amounts while massaging to spread the fat evenly. The surgeon must be experienced to vary the depths of each injection to maximize the fat contact with the blood supply to ensure optimal fat survival.

The procedure requires not only artful skill but also the experience to plan the surgery to suit each individual’s body type and requests.

Good communication between you and your surgeon is always important. I encourage you to discuss all your questions and concerns with the plastic surgeon you choose before embarking on your makeover journey.

To learn more about Brazilian Butt Lift, do contact us at:
Dr Marco Faria-Correa Plastic Surgery
Tel: +65 64648075
E-mail: [email protected]
Web: www.drmarco.com

Why is Breast Reduction and Lift So Rewarding?

Posted on September 1, 2016March 24, 2026 by esm_admin

With the many different types of breast surgery that address different issues, the two that are the most similar are breast reduction and breast lift. Due to this, the two procedures are regularly requested and performed together.

The truth about breast reduction and lift is that it is one of the most rewarding plastic surgeries around because it has the potential to alleviate physical discomfort while providing emotional liberation for many women.

BREAST REDUCTION vs. LIFT

The main difference between breast reduction and breast lift is that breast reduction requires the removal of breast tissue and/or fats, while breast lift does not.

When a patient’s aim is to have a significant amount of volume and weight reduction in their breasts, a breast reduction procedure will help reduce a few cup sizes.

When the concern is more about improving their silhouette so that the breasts are positioned higher, perkier, and firmer—but not smaller—a breast lift would be more suitable.

After a breast lift, the breasts might appear smaller than before. That is normal and is actually due to the new position of the breasts.

WHEN TO CONSIDER BREAST REDUCTION AND LIFT

Women with a genetic history of overly large breasts or who are overweight normally request breast reduction and lift surgery.

Consider breast reduction and lift surgery if you experience any of the following symptoms:

Breasts that are overly large in comparison to your body
Constant back, neck, and shoulder pain
Breasts that feel too heavy all the time
Poor posture or difficulty maintaining the right posture due to the weight of breasts
Numbness and soreness on the shoulder from weight pulling on bra straps
Skin abrasion from the friction of the bra or skin-on-skin contact
Lopsided breasts—one is larger or is at a different position than the other
Downward-pointing nipples that are significantly below the fold of your breasts
Difficulty finding clothes or bras that fit properly
Restriction of physical activity due to heaviness and bulkiness of breasts
Feelings of unhappiness and loss of confidence about your breasts

Breast reduction and lift can be performed at any age. They can be performed on some teens as young as 15 years old. However, I usually recommend waiting until after puberty for the breast to stop growing first to ensure the best overall results.

To add an extra perspective to this, breast reduction does not necessarily have to be limited to females. Male breast reduction (gynecomastia) is a fairly common procedure that I also perform for my male patients. I have written a blog post with very interesting information relating to gynecomastia. Read about it here:

INSURANCE CRITERIA FOR BREAST REDUCTION AND LIFT SURGERY

Costs incurred from breast reduction and lift surgery may be eligible for insurance claims. Insurance criteria for approval for surgery vary from one insurance company to another. Contact your insurance company for specific details, criteria, and eligibility requirements for insurance claims.

PREGNANCY AFTER BREAST REDUCTION SURGERY

Pregnancy after breast reduction surgery might affect the shape, size, and appearance of the breasts, possibly reversing some of the positive changes made during the plastic surgery procedure.

Of course, there are exceptions, such as when the patient is a teenager with breasts so large that they feel very self-conscious about themselves. The priority is to address their health and mental well-being first before worrying about the after-effects of future pregnancies.

In such instances, I often discuss breast reduction and lift surgery thoroughly with my patients to guide them in their decision. I want to ensure my patients feel confident and happy with their bodies.

WHY BREAST REDUCTION SURGERY IS SO REWARDING

Breast reduction and lift surgery is so rewarding because it alleviates physical and emotional discomfort while also enhancing the patients’ appearance!

My patients report increased self-confidence and a renewed sense of freedom to wear the clothes they want to wear and participate in physical activities they had previously shunned. It was indeed liberating for them!

While most of my patients report immediate relief from their back, shoulder and neck pain after their surgery, it does take a while for the final results to set in. Once the recovery period is over, they can expect to feel lighter and have better posture. They can also expect to feel happier with their figure and have better self-confidence that definitely lasts for a lifetime!

To learn more about breast reduction and lift surgery, do contact us at:
Dr Marco Faria-Correa Plastic Surgery
Tel: +65 64648075
E-mail: [email protected]
Web: www.drmarco.com

Pregnancy After Tummy Tuck Surgery

Posted on August 25, 2016March 24, 2026 by esm_admin

CAN I GET PREGNANT AFTER TUMMY TUCK SURGERY?

Many women are unsure if they have to wait until they are done having children before opting for a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty). They read everywhere that having a pregnancy after a tummy tuck will cause harm to the mother and the unborn child.

But as we all know, not all pregnancies are planned and it is possible that people simply change their minds about wanting more kids. Therefore it is important to know that pregnancy after tummy tuck is definitely safe for both mother and baby.

WILL THE PREGNANCY HAVE COMPLICATIONS?

First of all, all pregnancies have the potential for some degree of complications. Your gynecologist is the best person to advise you on any concerns you may have regarding pregnancy complications.

With regards to complications due to a prior tummy tuck surgery, do not be worried as most cases are safe and are not a cause for concern; most mothers carry their baby healthily to full term.

Even after a tummy tuck, your abdominal wall and tissue will still stretch as per normal to accommodate the new baby. Some mothers notice that their bellies do not stretch out as much, or they do not look as pregnant as their previous pregnancy. This is completely safe and is harmless to the growing child.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN TO MY TUMMY TUCK?

illustration showing difference between Full Tummy Tuck and Mini Tummy Tuck — *Fundamental differences between full and mini tummy tuck*

Most of my patients who became pregnant after their tummy tuck continue to love the results of their surgery even after their baby’s birth. In fact, most of them notice that they look better post-pregnancy with their tummy tuck then during their first post-pregnancy prior to their tummy tuck.

As a general guideline, women may not need a tummy tuck revision if their tummies do not stretch out too much, while others may need a revision if their skin and abdominal muscles stretch out a lot during pregnancy (such as in the case of twin pregnancy). Some women may find it helpful to control their weight gain during pregnancy, but ultimately, the baby’s and mother’s health should be the top priority.

As each body responds differently to pregnancy, it is important to consult your plastic surgeon and your gynecologist as soon as you find out you are expecting.

WHAT IF I NEED A C-SECTION AFTER MY TUMMY TUCK?

The main concern involving having a cesarean section after a tummy tuck is about the scar tissue. However, be rest assured that having a c-section after a tummy tuck isn’t much different from having a repeat c-section. Your gynecologist will still be working with a scar from the previous procedure, be it from a previous c-section or from a tummy tuck surgery. But in any case, you should still inform your gynecologist that you have already had a tummy tuck surgery as sometimes the scar isn’t too obvious.

One downside is that sometimes, your gynecologist might not be able to close your new c-section incision with the skill of a plastic surgeon and that might affect the appearance of the scar.

Sometimes, I get requests from patients to have a revision tummy tuck in conjunction with their C-section, and the answer is actually NO—it simply isn’t the right time. If you are interested in this topic, I’ve written a blog post about this issue. Read more here: www.bit.ly/dsdf7dbfo

HOW LONG SHOULD I WAIT TO GET PREGNANT AFTER A TUMMY TUCK?

Even though being pregnant after a tummy tuck is completely safe, I would still encourage you to wait until you are not planning any more pregnancies before considering a tummy tuck. It makes more sense this way due to the possible expense and need for a revision surgery following the pregnancy.

That said, there are some exceptions when there is a large gap between pregnancies, such as having their first child in the late teens and not planning any more until the late twenties or thirties. It is important that my patients feel confident and happy with their bodies, so it is understandable that they may wish to consider a tummy tuck even with more planned pregnancies in the future.

However, different plastic surgeons have different opinions about this matter; some believe that a pregnancy can be planned about 5/6 months following a tummy tuck surgery, while others feel that it is not worth running a risk for short-term results and should wait at least 5/6 years. In any case, the final decision should be made taking into account your individual life story.

In most scenarios, you should still find comfort in knowing that no matter how long the duration is between your tummy tuck and your pregnancy, you should still expect to make a full recovery without complications. If you have any concerns, speak to both your plastic surgeon and your gynecologist to ensure that your best interests are kept in mind.

Tummy Tuck during Cesarean Section

Posted on August 18, 2016March 24, 2026 by esm_admin

IS IT TRUE THAT YOU CAN HAVE A TUMMY TUCK IN CONJUNCTION WITH A C-SECTION?

The allure of emerging from the hospital with a baby and a flat stomach is definitely tantalizing, especially with the media constantly showing images of celebrities that look no different before and after pregnancy. Many women turn to exercising and dieting immediately after pregnancy, while others who undergo a cesarean section (C-section) may turn to a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) to restore the look of their abdominal area.

While a tummy tuck can take care of many post-pregnancy issues at the same time, the immediate period after having a C-section or a vaginal delivery is NOT a good time for the surgery.

I often encourage my patients to wait at least 6 months after childbirth before considering a tummy tuck.

Healing from a C-section before a tummy tuck cannot be rushed if you want to have the best outcome from the surgery. And if you are planning more pregnancies, I suggest letting the tummy tuck wait; there are lots more Mummy Makeover procedures that can be done if future pregnancies are in the picture. (Find out more about the different Mummy Makeover procedures.)

BENEFITS OF POST-PREGNANCY TUMMY TUCKS

For the average healthy woman who has completely healed from her pregnancy and C-section, a tummy tuck offers multiple benefits:

Restore the pre-pregnancy figure (or even improve upon it)
Remove redundant abdominal skin
Remove abdominal stretch marks
Remove abdominal fat through liposuction
Contour the waistline
Repair separated abdominal muscles (rectus diastasis)
Treat umbilical hernia
Improve posture through well-supported core
Tone and contour the tummy and waist areas
Replace the C-section scar with a bikini-line scar that can be easily hidden
Tighten the entire abdomen with a scar that is slightly longer than a C-section scar
Improve the appearance of the belly button (‘outtie’ to ‘innie’)
Provide a certain degree of lifting and rejuvenation in the pubis and thigh areas
Improve self-confidence with a better figure and a thinner waistline

illustration of Diastasis recti following pregnancy — *Diastasis recti following pregnancy*

SO, WHAT’S THE PROBLEM?

The point of having a tummy tuck is to look the best afterwards, and in order for that to happen, the mummies should already be healthy and stable before the tummy tuck.

Having a tummy tuck right after or in conjunction with a C-section or vaginal birth is both impractical and risky. That is because the body is still recuperating from the strain of pregnancy immediately after childbirth; it takes time for the abdominal muscles and uterus to shrink naturally, which may not happen until after breastfeeding is completed.

Other bodily characteristics and processes such as hormone levels, blood volume and body weight are also still readjusting for at least a few months after childbirth. To have the best results from a tummy tuck, all of the above should be stable before and after the plastic surgery procedure.

MY ADVICE FOR YOU: DON’T RUSH YOUR TUMMY TUCK

I always encourage my patients to take the time during the recovery from the stresses of childbirth to enjoy and spend time with their baby. It is far more important to spend quality time with their baby and bond emotionally.

Here at my practice, I will want an optimal recovery experience for the best outcome. Safety always comes first for my patients and I want to advise my patients in the best way possible.

After the first 3-4 months of motherly responsibilities (also the time when your baby needs you most), come in fresh both physically and emotionally. When both mother and baby are stable and well, and all support is in order, I will welcome and even encourage mums to come for a consultation. When mums focus on self-care, have the right mindset about plastic surgery, and the right expectations before the procedures, they experience the most satisfaction from the final outcome!

A Must Read Before Considering A Mummy Makeover!

Posted on August 11, 2016March 24, 2026 by esm_admin

No doubt, being a mother is extremely rewarding and satisfying. But pregnancy and breastfeeding do bring about several changes to a mother’s body, such as droopy, deflated breasts and loose, sagging bellies. That’s why some consider having a Mummy Makeover to restore their figure, but they often wonder when the best time is to get one.

WHAT IS A MUMMY MAKEOVER?

A Mummy Makeover is a combination of body sculpting procedures designed to revitalize a mother’s body. In some cases, it enhances the figure to an even better physique than they have always struggled to achieve. The combination of treatments generally consists of tightening the abdomen with an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) and restoring the youthful perk of the breasts with a breast lift and breast augmentation to achieve a fuller and firmer breast shape.

There are many more treatment procedures for a Mummy Makeover. Click here to find out.

While there are many guidelines available to help mothers determine their ideal timing for a Mummy Makeover, I will always urge mothers to wait at least 4 to 6 months after giving birth. It is to encourage mummies to spend the needed quality time with their newborn, as well as to give both mum and baby enough time to bond, recover, and stabilize. If after the recovery period, they still are unhappy with their body, and exercise and diet aren’t helping, a Mummy Makeover can help rejuvenate their bodies.

There are still some simple guidelines to help mummies understand the rationale behind specific timings for a Mummy Makeover:

1. BODY WEIGHT

Post Pregnancy Body With Rectus Diastasis — *Diastasis Recti following pregnancy.*

One of the most important factors to consider before having a Mummy Makeover is stabilizing the mother’s body weight. As plastic surgery is not a weight-loss procedure, mummies should wait until they have reached their ideal weight before having a Mummy Makeover (usually about 4-6 months). A healthy diet and an exercise routine is the best solution to initiate weight loss. After achieving their ideal weight, mummies should ensure their weight goal is stabilized. It’s an indication of recovery from the stresses of pregnancy and childbirth.

While exercise and dieting will help with weight loss, a mother’s body will be bound to carry a few excess areas of loose skin and post-pregnancy weight. That is when I will step in with abdominoplasty and/or liposuction to restore the pre-pregnancy body. If there is a presence of diastasis recti (separation of abdominal muscles), I can also fix that during the abdominoplasty procedure.

**INSURANCE COVERAGE
The cost incurred from the treatment of diastasis recti may be eligible for insurance claims. Insurance criteria for approval for surgery vary from insurance company to insurance company. Contact your insurance company for specific details, criteria, and eligibility requirements for insurance claims.

2. BREASTFEEDING

The next factor to consider before a Mummy Makeover is to wait until the cessation of breastfeeding for at least 6 months. This is particularly important for breast procedures such as breast augmentation with implants or with fat grafting and breast lift.

As the breasts undergo significant changes with pregnancy and breastfeeding, resulting in breast enlargement, waiting until the mother has finished breastfeeding will allow the breasts to stabilize in shape and size. This makes a much more accurate assessment during the consultation. For mothers who find that their breasts remain excessively heavy or out of proportion, a breast reduction in Singapore can be integrated into their Mummy Makeover to restore physical comfort.

After plastic surgery on the breast, the mother will still be able to breastfeed if she has more children in the future. The ability to breastfeed depends on the type of incision used during the surgery. Hence, I urge patients to discuss their wish to breastfeed with their plastic surgeons before the procedure. Note that additional pregnancies may further change the breast surgery results and reduce their fullness.

3. FUTURE PREGNANCIES

Most of the procedures in the Mummy Makeover, except for abdominoplasty, can be done even with future pregnancies planned. Liposuction, breast procedures, facial rejuvenation, and even vaginal rejuvenation are great to help maintain mummies’ figures, even after giving birth later on. Such procedures do not have many restrictions and have proven to boost self-confidence.

On the other hand, I will encourage mothers considering abdominoplasty to wait until they are done with having children. The main reason is to ensure that the mother’s physique does not change with future pregnancies so that the results of the Mummy Makeover are permanent. As an abdominoplasty involves removing excess, loose, and stretched-out abdominal skin and fat in the belly, being pregnant again (especially with twins) might partially affect the results, although to a smaller extent.

That said, even if a woman does get pregnant after the abdominoplasty procedure, it will not affect the pregnancy process and the breastfeeding process.

Additionally, a woman should also wait until they have childcare and support available before proceeding with a Mummy Makeover, as the recovery does take a while. It is not the right time as it will be inconvenient for these mums if they have to take care of the baby with some restrictions.

If you are a mother who meets all of the above criteria and is interested in having a Mummy Makeover, I can assure you that it will be one of the most rewarding surgeries you will ever do. My patients emerge more confident and with better self-esteem. Their overall happiness soars!

To learn more about Mummy Makeovers, do contact us at:
Dr Marco Faria-Correa Plastic Surgery
Tel: +65 64648075
E-mail: [email protected]
Web: www.drmarco.com

Let’s Talk About Capsular Contracture in Breast Implants

Posted on July 21, 2016May 16, 2025 by esm_admin

The development of capsular contracture is a nightmare for women who have had breast augmentation surgery. The breasts feel hard and shift position causing them to look lopsided. In extreme cases, it might also cause a lot of discomfort and pain.

WHAT IS CAPSULAR CONTRACTURE
Fibrous breast capsules are formed around the breast implants when they are inserted during breast augmentation, as the body tries to wall off the presence of the foreign implant. This is the body’s natural immunologic response whenever a foreign object is placed into the body, be it a pacemaker, an artificial joint, or a breast implant.

When the fibrous capsule tightens and squeezes the implant, capsular contracture occurs.

Anybody can develop capsular contracture, but according to many authors, the occurrence rates are usually about 5%-8% of women with breast augmentation.

SIGNS OF CAPSULAR CONTRACTURE

Although capsular contracture usually happens anytime after a breast augmentation, most instances occur in the first few months following the procedure.

The signs of capsular contracture commonly appear gradually and may first be experienced by it being firmer than usual. As the hardening intensifies, the breast may look misshapen and even painful. The breast can also appear round and shift higher up the chest while visible rippling appears. (Read more about the rippling of breast implants.)

There are various stages of capsular contracture, according to Dr Baker:

Baker Grade One — The breast appears natural in size, shape, and softness. The capsule has formed, but it is not tightened around the implant.

Baker Grade Two — The breast appears normal but feels slightly firm. There is a slight to moderate tightening of the capsule around the implant.

Baker Grade Three — The breast not only feels firm but is also beginning to deform. The breast appears round like a ball due to the tightening of the capsule on the implant. In some cases, the implant is displaced from its original position, usually upwards.

Baker Grade Four — The patient exhibits all the signs of Grade Three, with the addition of pain caused by the tightening of the capsule.

Grade Zero — The fibrous capsule is formed loosely around the breast implant, causing the implant to droop and sag within the envelope. A visible rippling of the breast implant may also be noticed.

REDUCING RISK OF CAPSULAR CONTRACTURE

There is no way a plastic surgeon can predict who will develop capsular contracture, but we have ways that help reduce the risk of it happening.

Sub-muscular implant placement is correlated with lower rates of capsular contracture as compared to sub-glandular implant placement. (Read more about breast implant placements here.)
Oversize implants might lead to capsular contracture as there might be more trauma to the breast pocket during physical activities. With more trauma, the scar capsule could be injured, and it can go on to heal with an additional scar, which might be thicker and less elastic than the original scar.
Perform breast implant massage at least twice daily for about 10 minutes following breast surgery. Displacement of the implant inside the breast capsule may help scatter any excess tissue around the implant, reducing the chance of capsular contracture.
Avoid smoking until full recovery has been achieved, as capsular contracture rates are about twice as high in smokers.
Choose a licensed and experienced plastic surgeon to do your breast augmentation. A surgeon who practices in a safe facility with strict infection control policies ensures better results and decreases the risk of capsular contracture.

Breast Implant Massage — *Techniques for breast implant massage are usually taught by the plastic surgeon after breast augmentation.*

CAPSULAR CONTRACTURE CORRECTION

Non-Surgical Methods:

Medications — Accolate® has anti-inflammatory properties that have helped to reduce the severity of capsular contracture. It works best for patients in the early stages of capsular contracture.
Breast Implant Massage — Again, breast implant massage may help to loosen the capsule in the early stages of capsular contracture.

Surgical Methods:

Open Capsulectomy — An open surgery where the entire capsule is surgically removed. During this surgery, the patient can choose whether to replace the implant or use a new one.
Open Capsulotomy — An open surgery that involves releasing the scar tissue by scoring the capsule with small incisions. It might also involve partial removal of scar tissue.

To learn more about capsular contracture or to discuss any queries you have, consult with your plastic surgeon. If you suspect that you may have a case of capsular contracture, talk to your plastic surgeon immediately. Capsular contracture does not heal on its own. In fact, it can get worse over time.

To learn more about capsular contracture, do contact us at:
Dr Marco Faria-Correa Plastic Surgery
Tel: +65 64648075
E-mail: [email protected]
Web: www.drmarco.com

What Can Be Done About Breast Implant Rippling

Posted on July 14, 2016May 16, 2025 by esm_admin

Before we explore the possible revision surgeries for breast implant rippling, I want to explain what it is and the reasons behind it happening.

WHAT IS BREAST IMPLANT RIPPLING

Breast implant rippling usually refers to the folds and wrinkles on the implant that is visible on the skin. This happens for women who have had breast reconstruction with saline or silicone breast implants and it usually develops on the outer perimeter (side, bottom, near cleavage) of the reconstructed breasts. It is also especially likely to be visible in very thin women or when leaning forward.

Saline Breast Implant Rippling — *Saline breast implant rippling. Picture credit: Westlake Plastic Surgery Center*

WHAT CAUSES BREAST IMPLANT RIPPLING

It is not uncommon for the breast implants to ripple but it is also not always visible on the skin. Rippling is actually more common for saline-filled breast implants as compared to saline implants. And to be totally honest, silicone gel breast implants can also ripple, but it is much less likely.

Even though there are many reasons why breast implants ripple, these are the most common:

Poor tissue coverage of the implants: This usually happens for sub-glandular placement of the breast implants. With such placement, sometimes, there is insufficient soft tissue to cover the breast implant, and when the implants ripple, it is more likely to be visible over the skin.
Scar capsule too loose: Sometimes, the scar capsule that forms naturally around the inserted breast implant might be larger than the implant itself, causing the implant to be drooping inside the scar capsule. When this happens, waves will be formed on the implant, which might result in visible rippling.
Underfilled/Overfilled saline breast implants: This only applies to saline-filled implants as all silicone implants are prefilled. When saline implants are underfilled or overfilled below or beyond the manufacturer’s recommended amount, it may cause the edge of the implants to wrinkle or pull to create ripples. These ripples may in turn be visible on the breast skin.
Round implants: Rippling is more common in round implants than in anatomical (tear-shaped) implants.

*Round implants tend to ripple more than anatomically shaped implants.*

REVISION SURGERY FOR BREAST IMPLANT RIPPLING

Unfortunately, no amount of massaging, exercising or skin products can get rid of rippling. And in most cases, revision surgery might be required.

These are a range of options that can be used to address breast implant rippling depending on its cause:

Replace the undersized implant: Swapping the undersized implants for more suitable-sized ones to fill out the breast envelope/scar capsule.
Tighten the scar capsule: Tightening the scar capsule so that it fits the small breast implant better.
Replace the saline implants with silicone gel implants: Silicone gel implants tend to ripple less than saline implants, as they are more form-stable. In fact, silicone gel implants tend to be the most resilient to rippling as they fill out the shell more smoothly and consistently than other types of implants.
Add/remove saline to underfilled/overfilled implants: In cases where rippling is caused by improper filling of saline implants, adding and removing of saline will help. However, doing this will also void the manufacturer’s warranty.
Repositioning the implant: Repositioning the breast implant under the chest muscles might help by giving the implant more soft tissue padding, thereby reducing the visibility of rippling.
Change the shape of the implant: Changing round implants to anatomical (tear-shaped) implants, which tend to ripple less.
Fat graft: Additionally, the transfer of fat from the hips, thighs or stomach to the breast via fat grafting can make ripples less noticeable. (Read more about fat grafting here.)

To learn more about breast implant rippling revision, do contact us at:
Dr Marco Faria-Correa Plastic Surgery
Tel: +65 64648075
E-mail: [email protected]
Web: www.drmarco.com