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Author: Ali Loreen, MD

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.

Botox Cosmetic Day is November 20th

Posted on by Ali Loreen, MD in

BOTOX cosmetic day is back.

It’s that time of year again! BOTOX® Cosmetic Day is on November 20th, and we have some incredible deals and giveaways that you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re a regular BOTOX® Cosmetic user or considering your first treatment, this is the perfect opportunity to look and feel your best—just in time for the holiday season.

BUY: Get an Exclusive Gift Card Offer!

On November 20th only, you can buy one $50 gift card and get one FREE! This deal is available while supplies last, so be sure to act fast. It’s the perfect opportunity to treat yourself and a friend or stock up for future treatments.

REFER: Share the Love and Save

Between November 1 and 30, if you refer a friend to Allē, both of you will receive $50 off a BOTOX® Cosmetic treatment. It’s a win-win! Help your friends discover the benefits of BOTOX® Cosmetic while saving on your own treatment.

WIN: A Chance to Win Big

Want to up the excitement? Register by November 30, book a consultation, and get treated with BOTOX® Cosmetic for a chance to win $10,000! Imagine all the ways you could pamper yourself with that prize.

More Info on BOTOX® Cosmetic Day

Top 5 Reasons To Consider A Breast Lift

Posted on by Ali Loreen, MD in

Do you look in the mirror and wonder what happened to those perky breasts of yesterday? You keep trying out new bras that promise a youthful look, but they never fit correctly, comfortably, or lift the “girls” to their rightful place. If you have these same issues, here are the top 5 reasons to consider a breast lift.

Mastopexy

A breast lift is not breast augmentation to enlarge the breast. It is to reshape and uplift the breast. A breast lift will improve the shape and firmness of your breast, and you will have a more proportioned figure. During the procedure, excess skin is removed and the nipple is relocated.

You will feel more confident in a bathing suit, be more comfortable in a bra, and feel sexier after a breast lift.

This type of procedure has increased 600% in the last 16 years, and here are just some of the reasons why.

After Weight Loss

You may have finally attained your desired weight, but your breasts have become saggy, limp, and they have less volume. A breast lift can help correct this unwelcome issue.

Aging

Most of us who have reached a certain age become all too familiar with gravity. As we age, our breasts head south, the skin loses its elasticity, and your once beautiful breasts sag.

Increasing Back And Neck Pain

When the breasts become limp and pendulus, this puts excess weight on bra straps causing neck and back pain. You don’t have to have very large breasts for this to be a problem. After a breast lift, the pressure is reduced.

Wanting A “Mommy Makeover”

A breast lift is often recommended after pregnancy, birth, and breastfeeding is completed. This will rejuvenate your breasts, but should only be done if you no longer plan to have more children.

To Gain Lost Volume

Many of the issues named above can cause a woman to lose volume, especially in the upper portion of their breasts. A lift will, by its very name,  increase the look of the upper breasts to create a fuller and more pleasing decollete.

Contact New England Plastic Surgery to schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Loreen Ali, MD and have all your breast lift questions answered. Give us a call at (978) 942-4835 or request an appointment through our secure online form.

Sources:

Top Reasons Women Seek A Breast Lift | Reston VA (wendygottlieb.com)

What is a breast lift and what are the benefits of this procedure? | ASPS (plasticsurgery.org)

8 Reasons to Get a Breast Lift | Birmingham Plastic Surgery Specialists (birminghamspecialists.com)

Top Five Reasons To Get A Breast Lift If You Have Drooping Breasts (austin-weston.com)

How to Choose the Right Size for Your Breast Implants

Posted on by Ali Loreen, MD in

Deciding to undergo breast implant surgery is a big deal. How big a deal is up to you. Do you want to stand out in a crowd? Do you want to look natural after the enhancement? Do you want to feel good in your own skin? The decision is up to you. Board-certified plastic surgeon Loreen Ali, MD can make recommendations after a consultation, but it’s your body. How to choose the right size for your breast implant.

What’s the Difference Between Implant Size and Cup Size?

They’re not the same. Implants are measured by cubic centimeters. Every 150-200 cc are equivalent to adding one or one and a half cup sizes. In addition, cup sizes are not consistent in terms of different manufacturers. In the US, most women choose between 300 – 500 cc.

Here are some examples:

  • 300 – 400 cc is the most popular size range. This makes a visible difference, but still looks natural.
  • 400 cc implant is a larger C cup or a smaller D cup. The difference between 300 and 400 cc is quite noticeable.
  • 500 cc is the maximum of what most women want. Otherwise the implant can create future risks like back pain.

Key Factors in Choosing the Right Implant Size

Selecting the best implant size is a personal decision you shouldn’t take lightly. Use the following tips, along with recommendations from your plastic surgeon, to help guide you.

Consider Your Profile

When you turn to the side, how distinctive do you want to appear? You can choose from a low profile, moderate one or a very natural look, high profile, or very prominent, or an ultra high profile meaning maximum projection.

Discuss these different looks with an experienced plastic surgeon based on your unique body measurements.

Think About Your Personality

Consider your personality. Are you more shy, or do you like to be the center of attention? The larger your implants, the more you will be noticed.

Consider Your Physical Activity

How about activity! Do you like to participate in sports, or are you a runner? Consider how larger implants will affect your ability to play or run. Certain activities will be more difficult or cumbersome with larger implants. Choose accordingly.

Review Your Wardrobe

Go through your closet. Note the styles and how they will look with larger boobs. Of course you will need to buy new clothes after breast augmentation, but your clothing style will give you an idea of how large you should/can go.

Make a Thoughtful Decision

Take your time. Don’t pick a size that a friend has, or one you saw on the internet. Pick one that will fit your lifestyle, your personality, and your body frame. Take the time to reflect on what will work for YOU.

Leading Breast Implant Surgeon in Chelmsford

Contact New England Plastic Surgery Center if you are considering breast implant surgery. Our specialists will help you choose the right size for your breast implant. Give us a call at (978) 942-4835 or request an appointment through our secure online form.

Sources: The Right Breast Implant Size For You (my plastic surgeon.ca)

Breast Implant Sizes Explained – Dr Liland