How to Prepare For Breast Implant Removal | Huntsville | ScottsboroFor a significant procedure such as breast implant removal surgery, thorough preparation is essential. Patients considering this plastic surgery should devote time and energy to prepare carefully for the pre and post-op phases. 

The patient should prepare adequately for breast implant removal surgery to enjoy a safe and effective surgical and recovery stage. 

Cosmetic surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain provides breast implant removal to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding locations.

Surgery Blood Work

The main step in preparing for breast implant removal surgery is getting blood work done. Prior to the surgery, the surgeon will ensure that the patient’s creatine, electrolytes, hemoglobin, and blood clotting ability are within the optimal range.

In addition, the patient will need to get an electrocardiogram (ECG / EKG) to make sure that her heart condition is normal if she is over 50 years of age. In case the blood work or EKG indicates a problem, the cosmetic surgeon will explain the next steps to the patient. 

Two Weeks prior to the Surgery

The patient will need to commence preparation for the breast implant removal plastic surgery two weeks before the procedure. To avoid rushing at the last minute, patients can start preparing for the procedure earlier. Timely preparation will ensure that the necessary arrangements are made well in time for the surgery.

Before her breast implant removal cosmetic surgery, the patient may arrange for the following:

  • A responsible individual to drive her back home after the procedure
  • A family member, friend, or caregiver to stay with her for at least 24 hours following the procedure
  • Childcare and pet care, if necessary

Correlating with this, the patient may need to implement some changes two weeks prior to breast implant removal surgery. These may include the following:

Avoid the Consumption of Alcohol 

Alcohol causes blood thinning, which may lead to a prolonged healing period and increased bruising. The patient should, in fact, remain hydrated by drinking lots of water prior to her breast implant removal surgery.

Stop Smoking

Nicotine may cause delayed healing and increase the possibility of the development of post-operative complications. In case the patient is a smoker, the surgeon will direct her to discontinue smoking for a specified duration before and after her procedure to prevent any associated health issues in the future.  

Avoid Aspirin or Ibuprofen

These medications affect the blood clotting ability of the body. In case the patient experiences body pain or a headache, they can use Tylenol (acetaminophen) instead of any of these drugs.

Discontinue Herbal Supplements

The patient may need to stop using herbal supplements such as ginkgo biloba, green tea extract, garlic, ginseng, and St. John’s wort for some time as these may interfere with the anesthesia. Therefore, she will need to discontinue the use of these herbal supplements two weeks before the surgery.

Night Before the Breast Implant Removal Surgery

The patient should undertake the following important tasks on the night before her breast implant removal surgery:

  • Bathe with antibacterial soap and cleanse her hair
  • Not eat or drink anything for a minimum of eight hours prior to the scheduled time of the breast implant removal surgery, including water and chewing gum

Dr. Landon D. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and nearby areas for breast implant removal. 

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL. Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

Create a Strong Jaw Line with Injections or Chin Implants

Much of the attractiveness of a face comes from the contours of its chin and jawline. If you have a receding or weak chin or jaw line, it can detract from an otherwise appealing face. Despite the best of facial features, weakness in the chin and jaw area tends to tone down the masculine characters of a man’s face. In women, it makes the face and neck look older.  

Some people also find that with a weak chin and jawline, the nose appears far more dominant in the profile view. Chin implant surgery is a safe and proven solution to deal with chin and jaw cosmetic problems.  

Double board certified oral & maxillofacial and cosmetic surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain provides chin and jawline enhancement procedures to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding locations. 

What is Chin Implant Surgery? 

Chin augmentation surgery involves the use of silicone biocompatible implants to give you a more pronounced chin and jawline. Experienced surgeons will customize the shape and size of the implant to suit your particular facial structure so that the procedure gives you a natural-appearing chin. 

After administering a local anesthetic, the surgeon makes a cut below the chin and carves out a space in the front portion of the chin. They insert the customized implant into this space and fit it into the right position, and then close the cut with sutures and bandage the chin. Once the bandages are off, you are ready to show off your new, well-defined jawline and chin. 

Improving Jawline Definition 

A jaw augmentation surgery can enhance the appearance of your jaws if they are out of balance with the rest of the face. Your surgeon an also correct any structural problems related to the jaw. The jawline implant surgery will restore the facial harmony by making your weak jaw appear more defined and angular.  

Neck Lift 

If your chin and jawline appear weak due to loose or sagging skin in the neck region, the surgeon may advise a neck lift surgery. In this procedure, the fatty tissue below the chin, the muscles, salivary glands, and skin itself will be modified in a single procedure to give you a neck that appears younger, and a stronger jawline and chin. 

Neck Liposuction 

If you have stubborn fat tissue below the chin, you may consider neck liposuction. In this procedure, the fat below the skin of the chin is removed to give your jawline and neck a more sculpted look. Based on an evaluation of your facial features, the surgeon will decide if you need only a neck liposuction or a chin implant, too.  

Non-Surgical Treatment Choices 

If your chin weakness is not very pronounced, your surgeon may sometimes recommend a non-surgical procedure for your weak or receding chin and jawline. Dermal fillers may be injected directly into the area of weakness on the jawline. This injection helps to make the mandible and bony angle more prominent.  

Injecting Botox directly into the masseter muscle of the face is another possibility. Botox relaxes the muscle, and draws your shape into a slimmer, “V” shape and improves its attractiveness. 

Double board certified oral & maxillofacial and cosmetic surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and nearby areas for chin and jawline enhancement procedures.  

Contact McLain Surgical Arts in Huntsville, AL to Schedule a Consultation

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL.  Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing.

For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

Breast Implant Removal Risks And Safety | Huntsville | ScottsboroBreast implant removal cosmetic surgery is a useful option for women who have suffered breast implant damage or those who experience a change in their aesthetic preferences. 

This procedure may involve breast implant removal or replacement. However, similar to any surgical procedure, breast implant removal surgery also has certain associated risks and side effects.

Breast implant surgery can be a more complicated procedure than the original breast enhancement procedure, especially when it is performed along with a breast lift. Cosmetic surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain provides breast implant removal to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding communities. 

Potential Surgical Complications

During the pre-op consultation, the breast surgeon will explain the potential risks and complications of the procedure to the patient. The patient, on their part, should follow the surgeon’s pre and post-op guidelines in a responsible manner to reduce the risks. Breast implant removal surgery has the below-mentioned associated risks:

  • Poor response to anesthesia
  • Bacterial infection
  • Unwanted cosmetic results
  • Bleeding
  • Unfavorable scarring

Risks associated with Breast Implant Removal

Breast implant removal is a relatively simple procedure. However, at times, it may have to be performed along with a breast lift for excellent outcomes. A patient may experience the following exceptional but serious complications during or after an implant removal procedure:

  • Scarring
  • Bleeding
  • Loss in sensation or a changed sensation in the nipple region

The breasts will likely not look the same as they did prior to the breast enhancement surgery. The patient may experience some breast sagginess or deformity, particularly if they had larger implants. In such cases, breast lift surgery, along with a breast removal procedure, can help develop more attractive outcomes.

At times, the patient may experience that her natural breasts seem smaller after the implant removal than what she recalls. The reason for this occurrence could be hormonal fluctuations or weight loss that happened when the patient received the primary breast augmentation plastic surgery

Risks related to Breast Implant Replacement 

The risks involved in breast implant replacement surgery are the same as those present at the time of the primary breast augmentation procedure. While rare, the following complications are associated with a breast implant replacement procedure:

  • Shifting of the implant from its position
  • Capsular contracture 
  • Implant rupture
  • Implant rippling
  • An altered sensation of the breast

A woman who chooses larger-sized implants for her breast implant revision surgery may experience more discomfort as her body will take time to acclimatize to the new implants. In addition, the surgery to place the larger implants will be more invasive and complex.

This procedure involves the surgeon creating new breast pockets to accommodate the larger implants. In correlation to this, they may have to change the placement of the implants as well, which may lead to a slight increase in the risks related to this procedure. 

Patients should understand that any breast revision surgery has some degree of associated risk. For this reason, a patient should only consider replacement surgery if she experiences a complication or wants to change her breast size. 

Dr. Landon D. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and nearby areas for breast implant removal.

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL. Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

Questions to Ask About Breast Implant Removal | Huntsville | DecaturThe decision to undergo breast implant removal cosmetic surgery can life-altering in some ways. The patient should only go ahead with this procedure after cautiously considering all aspects of the surgery and clarifying all her concerns with the surgeon. 

During the initial consultation, the patient will have a chance to ask the surgeon any questions that they may have. 

Cosmetic surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain provides breast implant removal to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding locations. 

List of Questions

The patient should ideally enlist any questions that she may have about the procedure or the surgeon’s credentials in advance to ensure that no important questions are missed out. The surgeon will offer the patient accurate and detailed answers to her questions to enable her to make an enlightened choice. 

  • What number of years of experience and training do you have in the area of cosmetic surgery?
  • Have you performed breast surgeries earlier?
  • Is breast implant removal or replacement appropriate for me?
  • How much time will I need to earmark before and after the surgery?
  • What is the time taken to complete the removal procedure inside the operating room?
  • What surgical venue would the removal procedure take place in?
  • Am I a suitable candidate for breast implant removal?
  • Are the outcomes that I am expecting realistic?
  • Can you show me breast implant removal ‘before and after’ photos?
  • Where will the surgical scars appear?
  • What anesthesia type would you recommend for this procedure?
  • What kind of changes in my lifestyle and preparation will I need to undertake prior to the surgery?
  • What will the post-operative downtime be? How many days of leave will I require from work?
  • What are the potential risks and complications associated with breast implant removal surgery?
  • If the results of my procedure are not according to pre-set criteria, what will be my options regarding a revision procedure?
  • What are the costs related to breast implant removal plastic surgery, including pre and post-op expenses?
  • Will your administrative team be able to provide me guidance or assistance on insurance and financing options?
  • Can I review the testimonials of previous patients to understand their experience at your practice?

Question about the Technique

The patient should be clear on the surgeon’s recommendations for the breast implant removal technique. There are certain benefits and limitations associated with various techniques. In case the patient is not clear on whether to choose a removal or replacement, she should talk to her cosmetic surgeon for clarity. 

Additional Suggestions

The patient should unhesitatingly ask questions about costs, modes of payment, and financing options pertaining to breast implant removal surgery. A plastic surgery procedure signifies a personal journey for the patient. Therefore, she should have complete faith and feel satisfied after the surgeon addresses her questions.

Dr. Landon D. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and nearby areas for breast implant removal.

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL. Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

What to Expect During Breast Implant Removal Consultation | HuntsvilleWomen who are unhappy with the results of their breast augmentation or those who experience complications with breast implants may be concrete candidates for silicone or saline breast implant removal cosmetic surgery. This procedure may be required if the original breast enlargement was not performed correctly. 

Cosmetic surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain provides breast implant removal to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding communities. 

Choosing between Implant Removal and Replacement

The surgeon will evaluate the reasons for the breast augmentation complications and recommend an appropriate course of action to the patient before the breast implant revision surgery. If the patient decides to undergo breast implant replacement, this procedure will be performed during breast implant removal surgery.

But if the patient chooses to undergo only breast implant removal, the surgeon may recommend plastic surgery options such as a breast lift. These can be performed at the same time as the breast implant removal surgery. Prior to the procedure, the surgeon will check the implants and examine the adjacent tissue for swelling, leakage, infection, or rupture. 

Educating the Patient

During the pre-op consultation, a responsible surgeon will educate the patient on all aspects of breast implant removal to allow her to make an educated decision. The surgeon will discuss the advantages, risks, steps involved, and the approximate recovery period after the procedure with the patient as well. 

Moreover, the surgeon will make sure that the patient is choosing to receive the procedure without any external pressure or influence. Patients who are well-informed are able to make a more judicious decision on breast implant removal surgery and typically achieve higher satisfaction levels as well. 

Suitable Candidates

The first priority for the surgeon at the time of the breast implant removal consultation is to establish the patient’s candidacy for this procedure. The surgeon will undertake a general medical exam and evaluate the breast structure as well as skin texture and elasticity.

The surgeon will assess the health and surgical history of the patient and may order medical tests, if necessary. They will incorporate the cosmetic goals of the patient into the customized breast surgery plan. 

Instructions for Preparation and Recovery

If the patient is a smoker, the surgeon will require her to discontinue smoking for several weeks before and after the breast surgery. They may also alter the patient’s schedule for prescription drugs, blood-thinners, and herbal supplements in discussion with the prescribing physician. 

Creating Reasonable Expectations

At the time of the initial consultation, some surgeons may choose to present breast implant removal surgery before and after pictures of previous patients to the new patient to help her develop realistic expectations from the procedure. Patients who have reasonable expectations are usually happier with the final results and feel more confident about the procedure. 

In addition, the surgeon may present testimonials of past patients to the new patient to allow her to understand the procedure from the point-of-view of another patient. The patient may also request for a brief tour of the office to familiarize herself with the surgeon’s practice. 

Dr. Landon D. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and nearby areas for breast implant removal.

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL. Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

Breast Implant Removal Candidates | Huntsville | Scottsboro | DecaturAt any stage after the breast augmentation cosmetic surgery, a woman may consider breast implant removal due to aesthetic, emotional, or medical reasons. When considering a breast implant removal procedure, the woman should be in good overall health and not pregnant or nursing.

Cosmetic surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain provides breast implant removal to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding locations. 

Removal Due to Inappropriate Implants

The original breast implant surgery may not always create the results that a patient desires. This may occur due to a variety of reasons, such as inappropriate implant shape, type, or size.

After the implant surgery (in an exceptional case) the woman may feel that she was happier with the natural shape of her breasts, or that the new larger breasts are impacting her ability to undertake specific activities. 

Women experiencing such problems could be suitable candidates for breast implant removal surgery. At times, the woman may not be happy with the shape, size, or type of her new implants. She may feel that the implants are too large or excessively small, or the profile or shape may not be suitable. In these cases, the woman may be a candidate for breast implant removal plastic surgery

Following the implant removal, the patient may sometimes choose to get new, more appropriate implants. Silicone breast implants were approved by the FDA a few years after they approved saline implants. 

Today, they are more sought-after than saline implants because of their superior touch and feel. Certain patients may want implant removal and subsequent replacement with silicone implants.

Surgical Complications Necessitating Removal

At times, a woman may experience complications related to breast implants after their breast enhancement surgery. This may happen at any stage after the surgery.  The risk of complications is greatly reduced in the hands of an experienced cosmetic surgeon. But complications may still develop even many years after the original procedure. 

Capsular contracture occurs when the scar tissue around the implant hardens. These types of cases may necessitate scar tissue or implant removal surgery. Correlating with this, the patient may choose to undergo an implant replacement procedure after the removal. Implants may deflate, rupture, or leak because of natural wear and tear or defects in the implant itself. 

Implant rippling may occur due to the thinning of skin across the breast or hormonal fluctuations. Sometimes the breast implant may move from their original position to create a lopsided breast appearance. In such cases, the patient may need to undergo implant removal surgery.

Other Candidates for Implant Removal

There are other considerations that may make some women poignant candidates for breast implant removal surgery. A cancer diagnosis may necessitate breast implant removal to ensure that the patient receives cancer treatment in an effective manner. Changes in cosmetic preferences or lifestyle may also lead some women to consider breast implant removal surgery.

Dr. Landon D. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and nearby areas for breast implant removal.

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL. Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

Breast Implant Removal | Huntsville | Scottsboro | Decatur | MadisonWhile deciding to undergo breast augmentation surgery, chances are that a woman or the patient may not consider that one day the breast implants may need to be removed. 

However, many women with breast implants might later decide to have them removed. Lifestyle changes, a breast cancer diagnosis, or experiencing complications such as capsular contraction can be a few reasons for seeking breast implant removal. This situation is certainly not the rarest thing in the world. 

McLain Surgical Arts, led by Dr. Landon D. McLain, provides breast implant removal to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding locations.

What is breast implant removal?

Breast implant removal surgery is a procedure that reverses breast enhancement. In this procedure, the surgeon removes the breast implant or revises their size or shape. 

Many women who have received breast implant surgery will need another breast revision procedure at some point. These procedures include:

  • Implant removal and replacement with new implants
  • Repositioning of the existing plants
  • Removal of the implants without replacement

In case a patient has had complications with her breast implants (including infection or capsular contracture), the cosmetic surgeon may recommend the removal of the breast implants.

Who is breast implant removal surgery appropriate for?

Women usually choose to have their breast implants removed for the below-mentioned reasons:

  • Implant complications: Complications related to breast implants include implant rupture, folding, or deflation (if the implants comprise saline).
  • Personal decision: Some women may feel that their breasts implants are the wrong shape or size. The implants may have shifted from the original position over time because of weight loss, weight gain, or pregnancy.
  • Other complications: Capsular contracture, tension bands asymmetry, leakage of silicone, displacement, and infection.

What does breast implant removal surgery involve?

Breast implant removal surgery is performed using general anesthesia and usually takes between one and three hours to complete. The patient may be able to return home on the day of the surgery itself, depending on her recovery. 

Following are the three most commonly used breast implant removal surgery techniques:

Breast Implant Removal Only

The surgeon will make incisions in the same site as where the incisions were placed for the original breast surgery. In case the patient experiences capsular contracture, the surgeon will remove the hardened capsules to expedite the healing process. 

Breast Implant Removal with a Breast Lift

The cosmetic surgeon may perform a breast lift along with breast implant removal in case the breast skin has been stretched or sags. They will remove any excess breast skin and tighten the breast tissue for stronger support. At times, the breast surgeon may also re-size the areolas to better fit the new shape of the patient’s breast. 

Deflation

If the breast implants are saline, the cosmetic surgeon may decide to deflate them without undertaking surgery. This procedure can be performed in-office under local anesthesia. Depending on the results of this deflation, the patient may need further surgery, including a breast lift or a breast implant replacement surgery.

What is the recovery process after breast implant removal surgery?

Most women are able to resume work in around one week after the surgery and report minimal discomfort after the procedure. If the patient has had breast implants removed due to capsular contracture or combines it with a breast lift, she might experience a little more post-operative discomfort and a relatively longer recovery.

Dr. Landon D. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and nearby areas for breast implant removal surgery.

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL. Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

Ear Reshaping Surgery

How Long Does it Take to Recover From Ear Surgery | HunstvilleThe recovery process is an important element of any surgical process, including ear reshaping cosmetic surgery. The patient should undertake all precautions during the recovery duration to allow for a predictable healing process. 

The surgeon will provide the patient with information on the expected downtime, post-operative care, maintaining surgical drains, normal post-surgical symptoms, and signs of potential complications.

Dr. Landon D. McLain provides ear reshaping surgery to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding communities. 

 

Initial Post-Op Stage

After the otoplasty surgery, the patient will have dressing wrapped around the ears. Once the surgeon assesses the incision areas, this heavy bandage will be replaced by a lighter dressing. The patient should make sure that the dressing remains in position unless directed otherwise by the cosmetic surgeon. 

The patient will usually be able to return home from the surgical venue on the same day. But they should ask a responsible person to drive them back after their ear surgery. 

The surgeon may prescribe mild pain medications to enable them to remain comfortable for the first few days after the ear reshaping surgery. 

 

Recovery Time Frame 

The patient should ideally have someone to assist them at home, at least for the first 24 hours after the recovery phase. In the first week after the procedure, the patient should get sufficient rest but perform gentle walks and light activities inside the home to improve the blood supply to the incision areas. 

The patient should keep their head in an elevated position while resting to manage the discomfort. They should not rest their head on the treated ear to prevent pain and throbbing. The surgeon will inform the patient about when the bandages will be removed and may prescribe an antibiotic cream for the incision sites. 

In around one week after the otoplasty procedure, the patient will need to visit the surgeon’s office for the removal of sutures and drains. 

The recovery process varies for each patient. But most patients can resume their routine in nearly one week. After two weeks, the final outcomes of the procedure will start to manifest. However, minor improvements in the ears can continue to occur for up to one year. 

 

Longevity of Results

Patients should not smoke and take certain medications such as blood thinners for a specified duration before and after the ear reshaping surgery. This will mitigate the risk of delayed healing and aid the process of recovery. The results of otoplasty typically sustain for the patient’s entire lifetime, unless there are any incidents that affect the ear shape and size.

Patients should visit the surgeon for their schedule follow-up appointments and examination in a committed manner. In case they notice any abnormal changes in the ears or other symptoms, they should promptly contact the ear surgeon.

 

Balanced Diet 

A balanced diet comprises vital nutrients that strengthen the immune system and reduce the risk of infection for a safe recovery process. The patient should intake sufficient amounts of lean proteins such as chicken, fish, yogurt, eggs, and light cheese to expedite the recovery after the surgery.

Dr. Landon D. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and nearby areas for ear surgery. 

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL. Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

McLainOral surgery provides patients with more than the mere restoration of oral health and cosmetics. It improves their confidence and enhances their perspective on life.

It is understandable that new patients are typically anxious to initiate their oral surgery journey as soon as possible. However, before scheduling their procedure, they should thoroughly weigh their options.

Oral and maxillofacial surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain provides oral surgery to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding communities. 

 

Things to Consider

Prior to seeking an appropriate oral surgeon for their needs, the patient should create a checklist of questions to help them determine their choice of a surgeon. Patients should consider a surgeon with the right experience and credentials, likely a surgeon with board certification in oral and maxillofacial surgery.

But the patient will also want to consider a surgeon whose fees are within their budget. In addition, they will want to learn more about the surgeon’s bedside manner. 

Do they want to work with a friendly surgeon who will be available to comfort them or one who has a more business-like and clinical approach to the process?

Would the patient feel more at ease with an oral surgeon who will provide them with recommendations on the most suitable procedure or one who will take their lead and do precisely as they ask them? It is important to assess these factors before consulting an oral surgeon to avoid being overly influenced by that surgeon’s personal style.

 

About Dr. McLain

Double board-certified oral & maxillofacial and cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS practices in Huntsville, Alabama. His cosmetic surgery practice serves patients from Birmingham, Decatur, and neighboring communities as well as from Georgia and Tennessee. 

Other than cosmetic surgery of the face and body, Dr. McLain provides patients with cutting-edge surgical procedures of the mouth and jaws.

People researching cosmetic surgeons in the Huntsville area can learn more about Dr. McLain and his reputation from remarkable cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgery by seeking a consultation online or contacting his office.

 

Choosing the Right Surgeon: Checklist 

  • What is your professional background and experience?
  • What number of years of experience in oral surgery do you have?
  • To date, how many oral and maxillofacial surgeries have you performed?
  • Can I request to see some examples of your past work?
  • What procedure do you recommend to me to help achieve my goals?
  • Is a specific procedure suitable for me? If not, what options do you recommend?
  • What options do I have in case I find the final results unsatisfactory?
  • What will the procedure costs be?
  • What additional costs can I anticipate?
  • Where will you undertake my oral surgery?
  • What are the potential risks associated with a particular procedure?
  • What can I expect during the recovery period?
  • How sustainable are the results?

In addition to the above, there are many more questions that a patient can ask a potential surgeon. At the time of the consultation, the patient should openly ask any other questions that they may have.

Oral and maxillofacial surgeon Dr. Landon D. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and nearby areas for oral surgery.

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL. Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.

Ear Surgery Procedure Steps | Huntsville | Scottsboro | DecaturEar pinning is a plastic surgery procedure that can be undertaken using different techniques. The degree of correction in the patient’s ear is a factor in determining the choice of technique.

At the time of the pre-operative consultation, the surgeon will inform the patient about the procedure steps to help them make a judicious choice. Dr. Landon D. McLain provides ear reshaping surgery to patients in Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and surrounding locations.

 

Anesthesia 

Ear pinning or ear reshaping plastic surgery is a relatively less invasive procedure that requires only local anesthesia with sedation for adult patients. But in case the procedure is undertaken on a child, it will often involve the use of general anesthesia.

A qualified anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist will remain in attendance throughout the procedure to oversee the patient’s response in case general anesthesia is used. The time taken to complete the procedure is typically two hours or less. 

 

Incision and Cartilage Reshaping

After the patient is under the effect of the anesthesia, the surgeon will commence the surgery by placing an incision behind the ear. The incision will be made in a hidden location to ensure that any future scarring remains discreet. The incision is made to expose the cartilage and reshape it. 

The surgeon will perform the reshaping delicately and with high precision to develop asymmetrical and proportionate ear shape. In case the ears are overly large, the procedure may involve a significant amount of cartilage elimination. The incisions may also be used to remove excess skin.

 

Ear Repositioning

In some patients, the ear may be excessively protuberant from the head. For such patients, the surgeon will reposition the ears closer to the sides of the head after reshaping the cartilage. This is called ear pinning.

It will typically combine skin removal from the back of the ear, cartilage sparing, and scoring techniques. An individualized combination of techniques will enable the surgeon to develop an appealing shape and position of the patient’s ears. 

 

Incision Closure 

The surgeon will seal the incisions with absorbable stitches or sutures once the ear reshaping procedure is complete. They will then temporarily cover the incision area with bandages. 

 

Outpatient Procedure

After the otoplasty procedure is complete, the patient will be moved to an observation area for some time. The patient may be allowed to go home as they recover from the immediate effects of the surgery and anesthesia. They should ask a responsible person to drive them back home after the procedure. 

In case the patient is a child, the surgeon often recommends an overnight hospital stay for closer observation. Adult patients may require an overnight stay only if a complication occurs or the ear reshaping is undertaken along with another procedure. 

There may be more steps involved in reconstructive ear surgeries to address congenital issues or injuries such as burns, lacerations, or torn and infected piercings. Dr. Landon D. McLain receives patients from Huntsville, Madison, Florence, Decatur, Scottsboro, Cullman, Athens, Alabama, and nearby areas for ear surgery. 

McLain Surgical Arts is a leading cosmetic surgery practice headed by Dr. Landon D. McLain MD, DMD, FACS in Huntsville, AL. Dr. McLain is a double board certified cosmetic and oral & maxillofacial surgeon, offering a variety of procedures such as dental implants, wisdom teeth extraction, breast augmentation, liposuction, rhinoplasty, tummy tuck, facelift, Botox, and laser skin resurfacing. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 256.429.3411 or click here.

Now taking patients from Huntsville, Scottsboro, Decatur, Madison, Athens, Florence, Cullman, AL and surrounding areas.