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Author: Ali Loreen, MD

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Thigh Lift?

Posted on by Ali Loreen, MD in

As we age—or after major weight loss—many of us notice changes in our lower body that exercise alone can’t fix. Stubborn fat, sagging skin, and loss of tone in the thighs can make it difficult to feel confident in clothes or enjoy activities that once felt effortless. If you’re looking to restore a smoother, firmer contour to your legs, a thigh lift might be the right solution.

At New England Plastic Surgery Center in Lowell, MA, Dr. Loreen Ali specializes in body contouring procedures like the thigh lift to help patients look and feel their best.

What Is a Thigh Lift?

A thigh lift is a surgical procedure that reshapes the thighs by removing excess skin and fat, improving the overall appearance and tone of the thighs and lower body. The result? Smoother skin, better proportions, and a more youthful silhouette.

Why Consider a Thigh Lift?

Several factors can cause the skin around the thighs to lose elasticity or sag, including:

  • Weight fluctuations
  • Aging
  • Genetics
  • Post-pregnancy body changes

Even with consistent exercise and healthy eating, it’s often impossible to tighten loose skin or target isolated pockets of fat. A thigh lift addresses these concerns directly, creating firmer, more toned contours.

Who Makes a Good Candidate for a Thigh Lift?

You may be a good candidate for a thigh lift if:

  • You have excess skin or fat on your thighs that doesn’t respond to diet or exercise.
  • You’ve lost a significant amount of weight and now have sagging or loose skin on your inner or outer thighs.
  • You are at a stable weight and not planning major future weight loss.
  • You are in good general health and a non-smoker (or willing to stop smoking before and after surgery).
  • You have realistic expectations about what the procedure can achieve.
  • You are bothered by the appearance of your thighs and want to improve your comfort, clothing fit, or confidence.

During your consultation, Dr. Ali will perform a thorough evaluation to determine if a thigh lift is the right option for your goals and body type.

What to Expect During Recovery

Following a thigh lift, patients can expect some bruising, swelling, and temporary discomfort. Dressings or bandages will be applied, and small drainage tubes may be placed to help prevent fluid buildup.

Most patients return to light activity within a couple of weeks and resume more strenuous exercise after several weeks, depending on individual healing.

Dr. Ali will provide detailed aftercare instructions and closely monitor your recovery to ensure optimal results and safety.

Ready to Take the First Step?

If you’re curious whether a thigh lift is right for you, schedule a personalized consultation with Dr. Loreen Ali today. Call us at (978) 942-4835 or request an appointment online through our secure form. We’ll help you understand your options and create a treatment plan that fits your goals and lifestyle.
Let us help you love the way you look—and feel confident every step of the way.

Breast Reduction Recovery Timeline: What to Expect Week by Week

Posted on by Ali Loreen, MD in

Breast reduction surgery can be life-changing, offering relief from physical discomfort, improving mobility, and boosting confidence. But like any surgical procedure, recovery takes time. Understanding what to expect week by week can help you prepare, heal comfortably, and confidently return to your daily life.

Below, we offer a general breast reduction recovery timeline to guide you through the healing process, from the first few days to the weeks that follow. Once you know what to expect, you can feel more confident and empowered in your journey!

Week 1: Rest and Recovery Begin

What to Expect:

  • You’ll go home the same day of the surgery.
  • It’s normal to feel tired, swollen, and sore—especially in the chest area.
  • Surgical dressings and a breast binder will need to stay on and dry for 3-5 days after surgery.

Care Tips:

  • Rest is key. Avoid lifting, bending, or raising your arms above your head.
  • Sleep on your back with your upper body slightly elevated.
  • Take prescribed medications as directed and attend your follow-up appointment.

By the end of week one, swelling and discomfort typically start to ease, but your body still needs plenty of downtime. Remember: Everybody is different, so listen to yours and reach out to your doctor if you need guidance!

Week 2: Moving Around More Comfortably

What to Expect:

  • Pain should decrease significantly, though you may still feel tenderness or tightness.
  • Stitches may be removed around this time (depending on your surgeon’s technique).
  • Some patients return to desk work or light daily activities with caution.

Care Tips:

  • Continue wearing your surgical or support bra 24/7.
  • Gentle walks are encouraged to promote circulation.
  • Avoid strenuous activity or anything that strains your chest or upper body.

You may start to feel more like yourself again, but healing is still in progress—don’t rush it!

Week 3–4: Swelling Reduces, Energy Returns

What to Expect:

  • Swelling continues to go down, and bruising fades.
  • Your breast shape and incision lines start to settle into a more natural appearance.
  • You may feel well enough for social outings or light exercise, depending on your recovery.

Care Tips:

  • Keep following your surgeon’s recommendations for wound care and scar management.
  • You may be cleared to transition to a softer, non-underwire bra.
  • Light stretching or yoga may be allowed—but still avoid lifting, running, or chest-heavy movements.

Week 5–6: Back to More Normal Activity

What to Expect:

  • Most patients are cleared to return to more vigorous activities, including exercise.
  • Your breasts should feel more comfortable and settled, though some minor swelling may persist.
  • Numbness or changes in nipple sensation may still be present but often improve over time.

Care Tips:

  • Continue supporting your healing tissue with a well-fitted, supportive bra.
  • Follow your surgeon’s advice on gradually resuming full workouts or upper-body routines.

Weeks 6 and Beyond: Long-Term Healing and Results

What to Expect:

  • Most swelling subsides by the 6–12 week mark, revealing your final shape.
  • Scars will still be visible but should fade and flatten over time.
  • You’ll likely notice improved posture, reduced back or shoulder pain, and greater ease with clothing and physical activity.

Care Tips:

  • Use scar creams or silicone sheets as recommended by your provider.
  • Maintain healthy habits to support long-term results.
  • Attend all follow-up appointments to ensure everything is healing properly.

Breast Reduction Surgeon in Chelmsford

Every body heals at its own pace—but knowing what to expect can help reduce stress and make recovery smoother. While the first few weeks require rest and caution, most patients say the physical and emotional benefits of breast reduction surgery are well worth it.

Thinking about breast reduction? Schedule a consultation with New England Plastic Surgery Center to learn more about the procedure, recovery, and what results you can expect. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

Sources:

https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/what-to-expect-after-your-breast-reduction-surgery

https://drpanossian.com/blog/breast-reduction-week-by-week-recovery-guide/

https://mwbreast.com/breast-reduction-recovery-timeline/

The Truth About Liposuction: What It Can and Can’t Do

Posted on by Ali Loreen, MD in

Liposuction is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures, helping countless people achieve a more sculpted and contoured body shape. However, there are many misconceptions about what liposuction can and cannot do.

If you’re considering the procedure, it’s important to have realistic expectations so you can make an informed decision. Let’s break down the truth about liposuction, including its benefits, limitations, and what you need to know before undergoing treatment.

What Liposuction Can Do

  • Remove Stubborn Fat – Liposuction is designed to target localized fat deposits that don’t respond to diet and exercise. Common areas include the abdomen, thighs, arms, hips, back, and chin.
  • Enhance Body Contours – The procedure helps create a more defined, proportionate figure by removing excess fat in specific areas, improving overall shape and symmetry.
  • Deliver Long-Lasting Results – Once fat cells are removed through liposuction, they don’t regenerate. As long as you maintain a stable weight, your new contours can be permanent.
  • Treat Lipedema or Other Medical Conditions – In some cases, liposuction is used for medical purposes, such as reducing painful fat accumulation in people with lipedema.

What Liposuction Can’t Do

  • Help You Lose a Significant Amount of Weight – Liposuction is not a weight-loss procedure. It’s best suited for individuals who are already near their goal weight but have stubborn fat pockets that won’t budge with diet and exercise.
  • Tighten Loose or Sagging Skin – If you have significant skin laxity due to weight loss or aging, liposuction alone may not provide the smooth results you’re looking for. In such cases, a tummy tuck, arm lift, or thigh lift may be necessary to remove excess skin.
  • Prevent Future Weight Gain – While liposuction removes existing fat cells, it doesn’t stop new ones from forming. If you gain weight after the procedure, fat can accumulate in other areas of your body.

Setting Realistic Expectations

Liposuction provides noticeable improvements in body shape, but it’s not a magic fix. The best candidates are those who:

  • Are at or near their ideal weight
  • Have good skin elasticity
  • Maintain a healthy diet and active lifestyle
  • Understand that results are enhancements, not transformations

If you go into the procedure with realistic goals, you’re more likely to be satisfied with your outcome. Your surgeon can help determine if liposuction is right for you and what results you can expect.

Maintaining Your Liposuction Results

To enjoy long-lasting results, lifestyle habits matter. Here’s how to keep your newly contoured figure looking its best:

  • Eat a balanced diet with lean proteins, vegetables, and whole grains
  • Stay active with regular exercise, including strength training and cardio
  • Stay hydrated and get enough sleep to support overall health
  • Maintain a stable weight to prevent new fat deposits from forming

Is Liposuction Right for You?

If you’re struggling with stubborn fat despite a healthy lifestyle, liposuction may be a great option to refine and enhance your natural shape! However, it’s important to consult with a qualified cosmetic surgeon who can help you determine whether liposuction aligns with your goals and expectations. That way, you can make an informed, empowered decision about what will work best for you!

Contact New England Plastic Surgery Center to schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Loreen Ali, MD.

Sources:
https://riossurgery.com/blog/11-facts-and-myths-about-liposuction/ 

https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/ten-common-misconceptions-about-liposuction 

https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/liposuction/about/pac-20384586 

The 4 Essential Steps of a Facelift Procedure

Posted on by Ali Loreen, MD in

If you have ever looked in the mirror and wished you looked like you did 25 years ago, you’re not alone. The difference is some women and men decide to do something about it, and they have a facelift procedure. If you have been wondering about what it entails, let’s enumerate the 4 essential steps of a facelift procedure.

Step #1 Administering the Anesthesia

Dr. Loreen Ali will determine the most suitable type of anesthesia based on your procedure and medical history. They will discuss their recommendation with you to ensure you understand what to expect.

For a facelift, the following types of anesthesia may be used:

  • Local Anesthesia: The doctor numbs only the treatment area while you remain fully awake. This method is typically used for minor procedures such as injections.
  • IV Sedation: A sedative is administered through an IV, causing you to feel drowsy while remaining conscious during the procedure.
  • General Anesthesia: This is commonly used for more extensive surgical procedures, rendering you fully unconscious throughout the treatment.

Your doctor will ensure that the anesthesia method chosen provides both safety and comfort during your procedure.

Step #2 The Incisions Are Made

There are a few variations on the particular incisions your plastic surgeon will make depending on what type and how extensive your face lift is going to be.

With a traditional face lift, the incision begins in the hairline at the temples and winds down around the ear before ending at the lower scalp. A second incision might be needed under the chin area to improve and smooth a sagging neck.

Shorter incisions can be made at the temples that then proceed around the ear for a mini lift.

A more limited incision is used on a neck lift, which concentrates on the jowls and loose neck skin under the chin. This incision begins in front of the ear lobe and goes around to the hairline at the back of the ear.

Step #3 Closing the Incisions

Sutures are used to close the incisions, which will need to be removed by Dr. Ali at a later appointment, or a dissolvable version can also be utilized to make this process more convenient for the patient.

Step #4 Enjoy the Results

As long as you have a board-certified surgeon like Loreen Ali, MD to perform your face lift, you will notice a refreshed and more youthful look.

The swelling and bruising will diminish with time and that younger person will be staring back at you in the mirror afterward. You will notice lifted and tightened facial tissue, much smoother folds and wrinkles, and a significant reduction in fat tissue.

Selecting an experienced board certified surgeon greatly reduces the chance of complications from the anesthesia, infection, scarring, blood clots or a poor result.

If you are sick of looking tired all the time and looking older than you feel, maybe a facelift is the exactly what you need.

Contact board-certified plastic surgeon Loreen Ali, MD if you are ready to discuss your treatment options, and to learn more about the types of facelift procedures we offer! Give us a call at (978) 942-4835 to schedule a consultation in Chelmsford, or request an appointment through our secure online form.

Plastic Surgery Consultation: Questions to Ask Your Surgeon

Posted on by Ali Loreen, MD in

You have finally decided to have plastic surgery. After much due diligence, you have decided to have your first consultation with a well-known surgeon. Now it’s time to bring a list of significant questions to help you decide if this person is the right one to perform your surgery. Plastic surgery consultation: questions to ask your surgeon.

The Purpose of Asking Questions

You obviously have a lot of questions when you are considering plastic surgery. Asking them serves many purposes including getting the important answers, but there are other reasons. Does the surgeon make you feel comfortable asking them? You want to know how smoothly the surgeon answers them and without hesitation. Does the doctor listen? You have safety questions and want to feel secure. You need to know about the surgeon’s experience, expertise, and qualifications. All these things matter.

Important Questions to Ask Your Plastic Surgeon

Are You Board Certified?

What can you tell me about your experience?

Are you certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery?

Are you a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery?

How many procedures of this type have you performed? (get a specific answer)

Why should I choose you as my plastic surgeon? (a revealing question)

Am I a good candidate? Or what procedure do you think is best for me?

What are the main risks and complications I could have? (is the doctor forthcoming?)

Where are your hospital privileges?

How long of a recovery period can I expect?

What will be my out-of-pocket costs?

Is there a charge for after care?

What if I’m not satisfied with the results? What happens then?

Can I see a before and after patient gallery? (doctor should be happy to show you)

How often do you perform this type of procedure?

What type of anesthesia will I get?

Will I get written post-op instructions?

How long before I see results?

Things to Consider After Your Plastic Surgery Consultation

You might want to ask yourself some questions after the consultation.

Was I comfortable with the office and staff? Were they professional and courteous?

Did I feel like I was listened to?

Was I comfortable with the doctor?

Were they forthright in their answers?

Did I get all my questions answered completely?

Were they trying to “move me along” or did they give me ample time?

Would I feel comfortable calling the surgeon before my procedure to ask more questions?

Do I feel comfortable moving forward with this practice and doctor?

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you feel dissatisfied, schedule another consultation with a different surgeon.

Contact Dr. Loreen Ali to schedule your plastic surgery consultation at our office in Chelmsford. Give us a call at (978) 942-4835 today to get started, or request an appointment through our secure online form.

Debunking Your Worst Fears About Botox

Posted on by Ali Loreen, MD in

People have been searching for the fountain of youth for centuries. Of course, we know it really doesn’t exist, but when Botox first came on the scene, it was touted by many as just that. At the same time there were scores of people who frightened many away with horrid stories of what could happen. After decades of successful Botox applications, there are still many who are fearful. If you are one of them, here are a few facts for debunking your worst fears about Botox.

You Still Think Botox Is Not Safe

Facts: Botox is used for both cosmetic AND therapeutic applications. Approval from the FDA does not come easily, yet it has been approved safe and effective for a number of issues. Beside wrinkles, it can help with migraine headaches, bladder problems, excessive sweating, and many other things.

Any drug can be dangerous if not in the hands of a trained professional who knows how to inject and the proper dosage. Before having Botox injections, be sure you are going to a licensed board certified professional. 20 years of safe use is proof that Botox is safe.

It Hurts

Facts: You may experience some brief discomfort when injected, but no one will tell you it hurts so much they stop doing it. An instant pinch is how most describe an injection. The needles are extremely thin and any discomfort only lasts for seconds.

Botox Will Freeze My Face

Fact: This is a common myth that needs debunking. As long as Botox is injected by trained professionals like plastic surgeon Loreen Ali, MD, you will see natural results that will give you a refreshed and healthy look, and without a frozen face.

Botox Is Irreversible

Facts: Not true. Some fear that if they don’t like the results, they are stuck with it for life. Botox results are not permanent and only have temporary effects. Most results will wear off within 3 to 6 months, and if desired, you will need additional injections to maintain the results.

People Will Immediately Know I Had Botox

Facts: There are no instantaneous improvements to your wrinkles and fine lines. It takes several days for the subtle relaxation of those lines to become noticeable. Some changes will be noticed after 3 to 5 days while the full effects show up after 7 to 10 days. By then those around you will think you had an extremely restful night of sleep, or will ask what new cosmetic you are using.

Contact board-certified plastic surgeon Loreen Ali, MD if you have been considering Botox injections. We can give you all the facts!

Sources:

https://www.healthgrades.com/right-care/medical-botox-injections/8-myths-about-botox-injections

https://www.besthealthmag.ca/best-looks/skin/botox-myths/

Breast Reconstruction After Fighting Cancer: What to Know

Posted on by Ali Loreen, MD in

If you are about to have cancer surgery, you have more difficult decisions to make. Once you have gotten over the shock of the diagnosis, now they want you to make more plans about your life and your body. Should you have breast reconstruction simultaneously with your cancer surgery, or should you wait? Should you have it at all? Let’s look at breast reconstruction after fighting cancer.

It Is Your Decision

Most women dealing with breast cancer feel like they have lost all control: control of their body, their life, and their future. Making a decision about breast reconstruction can help you regain some of that control.

You have several options:

  • You can choose to have reconstructive breast surgery.
  • You can choose not to have reconstructive surgery.
  • You can decide to have it at the same time as you have cancer surgery, known as immediate reconstruction.
  • You can decide to wait, known as delayed reconstruction.

Some women are overwhelmed and just don’t want to make a decision right now. It is understandable, but before you do, have a consultation with a plastic surgeon. Someone like Dr. Loreen Ali can walk you through all the pros and cons of each choice. It is recommended that you do this before your cancer surgery even if you decide to have it delayed.

Regardless of what you decide, you are taking back some control over your life.

Benefits of Reconstructive Breast Surgery

Whether you are having a lumpectomy or a mastectomy, breast reconstruction can give you back the shape and symmetry of one or both breasts.

Something every breast cancer patient needs is self confidence and self esteem. You want to look as normal as possible in all your clothes and especially a swimsuit. Know your options and talk with Dr. Loreen Ali about what is right for you.

Other benefits of reconstructive surgery include the following:

  • It helps to restore the look of your breasts before surgery.
  • Eliminates the need for a prosthesis.
  • The breasts will look and feel like the natural part of your body.
  • You will feel more like a woman with symmetric breasts.

Who Are the Best Candidates for Breast Reconstruction?

You must be a healthy non-smoker to be considered for breast reconstruction.

Although it won’t disqualify you from the surgery, smoking, being overweight, having diabetes, or high blood pressure may cause complications post surgery.

If you want to know more from women who have been there, click this link for additional information.

Contact New England Plastic Surgery Center to schedule a breast reconstruction surgery consultation in Chelmsford and discuss the best options for you. Give us a call at (978) 942-4835 or request an appointment through our secure online form.

What Is the Best Age to Get a Blepharoplasty?

Posted on by Ali Loreen, MD in

Mirror, mirror, on the wall, who has the fairest eyes of all? A subtle paraphrase from the Wicked Queen’s actual words from Snow White, but you get the point. Our eyes say a lot about us: they telegraph young, old, happy, sad, or even frightened. If you look in the mirror and are no longer happy with your eyes, maybe it’s time to do something about it. What is the best age to get a blepharoplasty?

You Can’t Fight Gravity

As time passes certain things occur that you have no control over. We all know this. One of those things is that the skin around our eyes changes as we get older. The area below our eyes gets baggy and the skin on our upper eyelids becomes slack and falls over our eyes. In both cases, it makes us look tired and, let’s just say it, old, when the skin above and below our eyes diminishes in elasticity.

You can buy the most expensive serums and creams, but they will do little to affect a change. Eyelid surgery by an experienced surgeon like Dr. Loreen Ali can provide the youthful and refreshed look you want.

What Is a Blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty, or eyelid surgery, is a surgical procedure that removes the excess skin on our upper eyelids and reduces the bagginess under our eyes or our lower eyelids. You can have both performed at the same time or just one.

In certain cases, this surgery can be medically necessary rather than cosmetic. Some patients have so much excess skin on the upper eyelid known as “hooding,” that it can interfere with vision. In this case the procedure may be covered by insurance, or at least partially covered. Ask Dr. Ali about this possibility.

The Best Candidates for Blepharoplasty

In the past, predominantly patients over the age of 50 were interested. Today, patients wanting eyelid surgery are getting younger.  When is the best age? The answer is really when YOU are ready to make a change to your appearance. That is quite different from who may have the surgery.

A good candidate should be someone:

  • At least 30 years old
  • In optimal health
  • No other eye conditions

Who May Not Be a Candidate?

There may be some issues with any of the following conditions, so speak with your surgeon beforehand:

  • Glaucoma
  • Dry eyes
  • Detached retina
  • High blood pressure
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Diabetes
  • Any thyroid disorders like hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, or Graves Disease

How Long Do Results Last?

It is essential that you have realistic expectations and discuss this with your doctor. Be aware that your eyes will continue to age post-procedure.

  • You can expect upper eyelid surgery results to withstand at least 5 to 7 years or for the rest of your life.
  • Lower eyelid surgery rarely needs to be done a second time.

Contact New England Plastic Surgery Center at (978) 942-4835 to schedule a consultation in Chelmsford if you are considering a Blepharoplasty.

6 Benefits of Arm Lift Surgery

Posted on by Ali Loreen, MD in

If you have recently lost a lot of weight (congratulations!) or if you need to lose some weight, your arms may be a problem for you. Sometimes you can thank your mother for those upper arms, or you could just blame genes, or getting older. Whatever the reason, those unsightly upper arms are the least favorite part of your body. You can do something about it. Let’s take a look at 6 benefits of arm lift surgery.

What Is a Brachioplasty?

Arm lift surgery is known as brachioplasty, and it removes excess skin and fat from underneath your upper arms. Imagine being able to wear sleeveless tops in the summer or an elegant evening dress to a special event. Imagine being able to show off your arms again.

They will become firmer and more contoured after surgery performed by board-certified plastic surgeon Loreen Ali, MD. If this droopy, loose skin prevents you from wearing the sexy clothes you want, maybe it’s time to find out if you are a good candidate.

Who Is a Candidate for an Arm Lift?

You must be in good health and a non-smoker in order to have arm lift surgery.

How Long Does the Surgery Take?

Brachioplasty is performed under general anesthesia and takes approximately two hours to complete.

Many patients choose to have liposuction performed during arm lift surgery to remove all the excess fat left and in order to better contour the area.

What Are the Benefits of Arm Lift Surgery?

  1. It will improve the shape of your arms: After surgery your arms will look firmer, more youthful, and sleek. They will appear more toned with no more loose skin and fat deposits.
  2. You can actually see your muscles: This includes your biceps. You will finally begin to see the benefits of those trips to the gym. In fact, you may even be more motivated to work out
  3. Your self-confidence will soar: Now that you can wear all those sleeveless tops and dresses, you will be wanting to go out more often and show off your new upper body.
  4. The results are long lasting: As long as you maintain and keep a stable weight (don’t gain too much or lose a lot of weight), your arms will maintain their contoured look.
  5. Enhanced mobility: You will find that removing your excess skin and fat will give you improved range of movement and more comfort when performing certain activities like swimming or running.
  6. It will reduce or eliminate skin rashes: Excess skin and moisture in folds can lead to irritation. This in turn leads to itchy rashes. After surgery, no more worries.

Arm Lift Surgery in Chelmsford, MA

Contact New England Plastic Surgery Center at (978) 942-4835 if you are uncomfortable with your upper arms and no amount of exercise helps. Find out if you are a candidate for a brachioplasty procedure.