Repeating cosmetic surgeries

Question: How often does one have to repeat cosmetic surgery procedures? Answer: By now most patients who do facial rejuvenation with injectables know these products do not last forever. BOTOX® or Dysport® can last three to six months for some, while fillers (i.e. Juvéderm, Restylane or even collagen stimulators like Sculptra) may last six months to two years or more. For surgical procedures, the repeat time is much different. Typically cosmetic surgeries that do not need repeating are rhinoplasty (nose reshaping), otoplasty (ear pinning), and usually abdominoplasty (tummy tuck). Of course, much of this depends on the type of tummy tuck technique performed at the time. We have noticed patients who had previous tummy tucks (or even liposuction) now coming back for a little more body contouring with the latest SAFE liposuction techniques we’ve added for arms, thighs and even the back flank and bra areas. Plastic surgery for the face or neck, however, does generally need revisiting within six to 20 years. This also depends on the age the patient started facial procedures, as well as their general hereditary makeup, skin elasticity and continued maintenance over the years. Eyelid surgery can frequently last 20 years or longer before needing enhancement. Sometimes patients will include a brow lift the second time around, or possibly some laser or peels for skin elasticity in that area . After a first facelift, a patient may want a mini-lift after seven to 10 years to stay looking refreshed. But keep in mind that just because you have surgery does not mean you shouldn’t keep up with injectables and an active regimen of clinical skin care, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, microneedling, PRP or even lasers for overall skin conditioning. We generally see patients considering their first facelift near age 50, or their eyes in their 40s. Many of those may not need additional surgery for years, whereas a patient waiting until 60 or older (when their skin may not have as much elasticity) may need a repeat lift within six to 10 years. For breast surgery patients, depending on the procedure (i.e. augmentation, lift or reduction), many patients find they are not repeating surgery for many years. If a woman is going fuller, or even smaller, most breast surgeries can last 20 years or more. Again, much is dependent upon when they had the first surgery as well as how their breasts change over the years from pregnancy, nursing, skin elasticity, or significant weight changes. In summary, while some procedures can last virtually a lifetime, ongoing beauty confidence requires regular maintenance!