Author Archives: Dr. Traci Temmen

Where does the fat come from for a Brazilian Butt Lift?

Some women, no matter how many squats or lunges they do, can never achieve the round, perky booty of their dreams. Whether it’s due to aging or just bad genetics, this can be frustrating for many women who feel like no matter what they do, they just can’t get the result they want. Luckily, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Traci Temmen is ready to help! Dr. Temmen has extensive knowledge and experience performing the Brazilian Butt Lift (commonly called the BBL) for her patients who want to improve the shape of their derriere without the use of synthetic implants. This blog post will discuss the fundamentals of the BBL procedure, as well as answer a common patient question, “Where does the fat come from for a Brazilian Butt Lift?”

To many patients, the Brazilian Butt Lift may seem like magic – after all, it essentially moves fat from areas you don’t want it, and adds it to the buttocks! Let’s break down the mechanics behind this procedure, and answer the question of where the fat that will be injected into the buttocks comes from. The BBL can be divided into two steps. In the first step, Dr. Temmen performs liposuction of the body. This accomplishes two goals: One, it melts away unwanted fat deposits, and two, it harvests fat for later use in the BBL. To accomplish this, Dr. Temmen utilizes a technique called tumescent liposuction. In this method, a saline solution containing lidocaine and epinephrine is first injected into the areas where fat will be removed. The lidocaine helps to reduce pain, the epinephrine lessens bleeding and bruising, and the saline solution helps break up the fat and separate it from the underlying tissues for easier removal. Liposuction is then performed to gently suction out the solution along with the accompanying fat. Using this safe and reliable method, Dr. Temmen is able to remove fat from the belly, back, sides, and/or thighs. This can also be personalized to fit the patients’ wishes by targeting the “problem areas” that bother the patient the most, such as love handles or back fat. These preferences are all discussed with Dr. Temmen during each patient’s personal consultation to ensure that the best possible result. Once the fat has been removed, Dr. Temmen takes care to equally redistribute the thin layer of fat that remains in order to ensure a smooth, natural-looking result.

Next, it is time to transfer the fat to the buttocks. After the fat was collected during liposuction, it is gently processed and prepared for transfer. Then, it is injected into various aspects of the buttocks to create the desired shape. For example, patients who desire more projection can have more fat injected into the back of the buttocks, whereas patients who prefer a rounder shape can have more fat injected into the sides of the buttocks. Dr. Temmen works closely with each patient to make sure she understands their aesthetic goals, whether it be a bigger “Kardashian butt” or a subtler, more athletic appearance. Once the desired amount of fat has been injected, Dr. Temmen is meticulous in making sure the result is symmetrical and smooth. When everything is complete, she closes the tiny incisions where the injections and liposuction were performed.

The Brazilian Butt Lift is a wonderful surgical option for those for are looking for a safe and effective way to enhance their backside. This procedure can be life-changing for many, adding a boost of confidence and helping women feel radiant and beautiful. As a woman herself, Dr. Temmen understands the embarrassment and shame many women feel, and how a fresh new look can change your whole outlook on life! For those who are tired of feeling unhappy with their body, she is ready to offer her surgical expertise to make lasting positive change. To learn more about if you may be interested in the Brazilian Butt Lift or any other procedure you’re interested in, simply call 813-771-6393 to book your one-on-one consultation with Traci Temmen, MD today!

What questions should I ask my Plastic Surgeon?

Although pop culture often portrays plastic surgery as straightforward and easy, in reality the decision to have plastic surgery (just like any other kind of surgery) is a big one, and requires ample thought and preparation. There are many factors to consider, including finding the right surgeon, ensuring that your surgery will be performed in a safe environment, and of course choosing the right surgical option for you. Trying to weigh all of these considerations can feel very overwhelming! This is why this blog post is about the top questions you should be sure to address with your plastic surgeon, providing a short and sweet guide to help you get started on your journey.

When considering plastic surgery, one of the most important things to do first is ensure that you are only considering plastic surgeons who are board-certified and have extensive experience performing your procedure of interest. It is not adequate to be board-certified in another area of surgery, as only those who are board certified in plastic surgery have the highly specialized skill set necessary to optimize your safety, as well as the chances of getting an aesthetically pleasing result. In addition to ensuring board certification, it is also a good idea to ask how often the surgeon performs the procedure you are interested in. After all, it makes sense that someone who performs many procedures per week versus only a couple per month has had much more experience perfecting their craft. Another important question to ask your surgeon is where the surgery will be performed. Pay close attention to ensure that it is a fully accredited surgical facility that has been verified to be clean, up to code, and fully equipped with everything needed to respond in a life-threatening emergency. Dr. Traci Temmen operates at Temmen Plastic Surgery, a private surgical center that meets hospital standards and has been approved by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities. Finally, it is important to know not just the credentials of your surgeon, but also the entire surgical team that will be taking care of you. Asking about the other team members such as anesthesia, nursing, and any other assistants will help you learn exactly who will be involved in your case from start to finish.

Once you feel comfortable with your surgeon, surgical setting, and the rest of your surgical team, you should also ask questions to learn more about the specific surgery you are interested in. Important questions for any surgery include going over the risks and benefits. All surgery entails risks such as bleeding, blood clots, and infection, but there may be additional, more specific risks depending on the specific surgery. Likewise, it is important to consider the potential benefits of the surgery, such as improved self-confidence and quality of life. In addition, it is also a good idea to ask what your expected outcome would be, or what kind of outcomes the surgeon has seen in patients similar to you. To help answer this question, be sure to ask to see examples of previous patient before and after photos to show you the quality of their work and give you an idea of what you can expect. Along similar lines, it is also helpful to ask how the surgeon would tailor the surgery you’re interested in to fit your body and aesthetic goals. Dr. Temmen understands that plastic surgery is never a one-size-fits-all affair, and requires careful personalization to the unique patient to get the most beautiful and natural-looking result.

Lastly, a few more questions you may want to ask your plastic surgeon pertain to recovery. Assessing the estimated recovery time, what activity restrictions you will have, and what your follow-up will be is important for planning your life and schedule at the item of surgery. Specific questions that may be helpful to ask your surgeon include when they expect that you can drive, return to work, and exercise, as well as if you will need anyone at home assisting you with activities in the early stage of recovery. This is also a good time to ask about when you can expect to see post-op swelling start to subside and your result emerge, as this process usually takes weeks to months.

As you can see, the decision to have plastic surgery involves considering many moving parts, from the people who will be taking care of you to the expected results and recovery process. Thus, it is crucial as to do your own research, find an experienced and reputable board certified plastic surgeon, and ask all of the questions you need to feel informed and comfortable preparing for surgery. Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Traci Temmen understands that deciding to have surgery can be nerve-wracking, and she is committed to spending time one-on-one with each patient to make the process as stress-free as possible. If you would like to view examples of real patient transformations performed by Dr. Temmen, please explore the Before and After section of this website. To learn more about if you may be a good candidate for a procedure you’re interested in, please call 813-771-6393 to schedule your personal consultation with Traci Temmen, MD, today!

Can Breast Augmentation correct Uneven Breasts?

When you look in the mirror, are you bothered by breasts that look uneven or asymmetrical? If so, you’re not alone! It is very common for women to have one breast that is larger than the other, hangs lower than the other, or has a different nipple size. This can be very distressing for many women who wish their breasts had a more symmetrical appearance. Luckily, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Traci Temmen is highly skilled at cosmetic breast surgery including breast augmentation, breast lift, and breast reduction procedures that can simultaneously correct asymmetry of the breasts. This blog post will briefly discuss which patients may be best suited for these options, as well as how they may be used to correct breast asymmetry.

Breast augmentation enhances the size and shape of the breasts, and can be performed with implants or fat transfer. Breast implants are composed of a silicone outer shell that is filled with either a saline solution or gel-like silicone, and come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. Breast implants are a safe and effective way to increase cup size while creating a rounder, fuller shape. In cases where the breasts are slightly different sizes, implants with different volumes can be used to help correct this asymmetry. Silicone implants come in many different sizes to choose from, and saline implants can be carefully titrated to the correct size as they are filled with sterile saline solution once in place. Another option for breast enhancement is fat transfer to the breasts. In this procedure, liposuction is performed first on the abdomen, back and sides to sculpt a smoother, leaner physique. Once this is complete, the collected fat is processed and prepared for transfer into the breasts. It is then injected into the breasts to provide soft, natural volume. Women with differently sized breasts may wish to have different volumes of fat injected into each breast to restore symmetry.

Next, let’s discuss the option of breast lift. This surgery is performed for women whose breasts have been dragged down by aging, weight changes, and/or pregnancy, resulting in breasts that appear “deflated” or saggy. A breast lift turns back the clock by restoring breasts to a higher position on the chest wall, creating a perky and youthful appearance. Women also have the option of a combined breast augmentation with lift, during which implants can be placed to add volume at the same time that the breasts are lifted. It is not uncommon for women considering a breast lift to have one breast that hangs lower than the other. This should be thoroughly addressed during the patient’s one-on-one consultation with Dr. Temmen, during which precise measurements of the body will be made to aid in surgical planning. This information can then be used to make adjustments to correct for this asymmetry during surgery in order to create a beautiful, lifted, and symmetrical result.

Another surgical option for altering the appearance of the breasts is a breast reduction. This procedure is commonly chosen by women who have breasts that are very large and have a negative impact on quality of life. Examples of this include chronic neck and back pain, difficulty exercising, difficulty finding clothing that fits well, and low self-confidence or embarrassment. For these women, a breast reduction surgery can truly be life-changing by removing excess breast tissue and making the breasts much less cumbersome and more proportional to the rest of the body. Women who have one breast that is larger than the other may have more tissue removed from the larger breast to restore symmetry. In addition, it is common for women with very large, pendulous breasts to also have an oversized nipple-areola complex (the darker area surrounding the nipple). During breast reduction, Dr. Temmen can also reduce the size of the areolas to look more proportional to the breasts. Patients who have one areola that is bigger than the other can also have this corrected during surgery by reducing the size of the larger areola more.

Dr. Traci Temmen is highly trained and experienced in cosmetic breast surgery, including breast augmentation with implants, fat transfer, breast lift, and breast reduction. Each of these procedures can be personalized to the unique patient in order to address underlying breast asymmetry, such as differently sized breasts, different degrees of breast sagging, and differences in nipple size. Dr. Temmen recognizes that deciding to have surgery is a big decision, and takes her time with each patient to ensure that she has a perfect understanding of the patient’s goals and has addressed all questions and concerns. If you want to learn more about if one of these procedures may be right for you, take the first step by calling 813-771-6393 to book your one-on-one consultation with Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Traci Temmen, MD, today!

Should I get a mini or full tummy tuck?

Life can be hard on the body. As aging, weight changes, and pregnancy all take their toll, many women are left dissatisfied with their shape. The midsection in particular is a big source of shame and insecurity for many as the flat, toned tummy of your youth changes over time, leaving saggy, stretched out skin behind. Luckily, there is a way to turn back the clock! Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Traci Temmen is proud to offer safe and highly effective surgical solutions to her patients, including the full tummy tuck and mini tummy tuck. This blog post will talk about these two options, what sets them apart from one another, and who may be a better candidate for one versus the other.

First, let’s discuss the full tummy tuck that most patients are more familiar with. In this procedure, Dr. Temmen utilizes a combination of liposuction and traditional tummy tuck techniques to create a sculpted, flat abdomen with beautiful curves. In the past, tummy tucks were performed without liposuction. In other words, excess skin and tissue was removed from front of the abdomen, but the back, sides, and overall shape remained untouched. This flattened the tummy but in leaving the rest of the abdomen alone, resulted in an more artificial appearance that did nothing for the patient’s natural curves. Today, most plastic surgeons including Dr. Temmen perform liposuction first to slim and smooth the midsection, accentuate the waistline, and remove stubborn fat deposits like love handles. This improves the appearance of the abdomen overall, while also allowing the tummy tuck to blend in more naturally with the rest of the patient’s body. Once liposuction is complete, Dr. Temmen moves into the “tummy tuck” part of the procedure. For this part, a horizontal incision is made on the abdomen that is a little longer than a C-section scar, and placed low enough to be easily concealed by standard underwear or bikini bottoms. Using this incision, loose abdominal skin and excess tissue and removed and the remaining tissue is pulled together to create a flatter, more toned tummy. In addition, since it is very common for the abdominal “six pack” muscles to get stretched apart by aging, weight gain, and pregnancy, Dr. Temmen also pulls these muscles back together during a tummy tuck to help further cinch in the waist. Lastly, Dr. Temmen creates a new, pretty “innie” belly button to complete the look.

Now that we’ve covered the full tummy tuck, let’s talk about the mini version. A mini tummy tuck, as the name implies, includes the same components of a full tummy tuck, only on a smaller scale. Liposuction is still performed first to smooth and tone the abdomen. Then, the horizontal incision on the abdomen is made. This incision is shorter than for the full version, usually a little bit shorter than a C-section scar. Due to the shorter incision length, the mini tummy tuck only targets the area below the belly button. This is in contrast to a full tummy tuck, which targets the area both above and below the belly button. Along similar lines, the mini tummy tuck may also include abdominal muscle tightening limited to below the belly button. Lastly, because the mini tummy tuck stays below the navel, the patient keeps their existing bellow button rather than getting a new one.

Now that both options have been laid out, let’s wrap up with a quick summary of the differences between these two procedures, and who may be a good candidate for one over the other. A full tummy tuck utilizes a longer incision to tighten the skin and tissue both above and below the belly button, and creates a new belly button in the process. A mini tummy tuck uses a smaller incision to tighten the skin and tissue below the belly button, and leaves the native belly button in place. Therefore, people with excess hanging skin and loose tissue over the upper and lower abdomen are better suited to a full tummy tuck. People who are overall satisfied with their upper abdomen and just have a little excess skin and tissue below the belly button they would like removed may be happy with a mini tummy tuck. Additionally, those who wish to change the appearance of their belly button may prefer a full tummy tuck over a mini.

Both the full and mini tummy tucks are great options for patients looking to change the appearance of their abdomen and get the flat sculpted midsection they desire! Depending on the patient’s current appearance, desired result, and preferences for scar size and belly button, one option may be a better match than the other. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Traci Temmen is highly skilled at both of these procedures and enjoys working with each individual to design a personalized procedure plan that is the perfect fit for them. If you are interested in learning more about if you may be a good candidate for a full or mini tummy tuck, please call 813-771-6393 to schedule your one-on-one consultation with Traci Temmen, MD, today!

How can Fat Transfer Enhance my Breasts?

Fat transfer has been around since the 90’s and has been used in a variety of ways to enhance the face, breasts, buttocks, hands, and other areas of the body. Fat transfer has gained popularity as a longer lasting, more natural alternative to synthetic fillers for cosmetic enhancement of the face, while also garnering attention for its groundbreaking use in buttock enhancement via the Brazilian Butt Lift. While breast enhancement has long been dominated by implants, fat transfer has also become a great option for enhancing the breasts. However, it is common that patients considering cosmetic surgery on the breasts are not as aware of this option that is available to them. This blog post will provide an introduction to the role of fat transfer in breast enhancement, and give patients an idea of if this procedure may be just what they’re looking for.

The basic principle of fat transfer is as follows: Move fat from an area of the body where it is NOT wanted to an area where it IS wanted! The first step in this process is performing gentle liposuction to target unsightly stubborn fat deposits, most commonly on the stomach, back and sides. In addition to melting this fat away, Dr. Traci Temmen is also an expert at performing liposuction in a way that beautifully contours the body by flattening the stomach while accentuating the patient’s natural curves and waist. This not only creates a slimmer profile, but also sculpts an attractive hourglass shape. Once liposuction is complete, the fat that was collected is purified and prepared for transfer into the breasts. The fat is then precisely injected into the breasts to create a beautiful shape and natural boost of volume. This is accomplished through very tiny incisions that are camouflaged in the crease at the bottom of the breast to be as invisible as possible. Dr. Temmen is highly skilled in this procedure, and takes great care to transfer precise volumes of fat into the breasts in order to ensure a proportional and symmetrical result.

Fat transfer to the breasts may be performed as described above on its own to add soft, natural volume to the breasts. When performed alone, patients can expect to see an increase in breast size of approximately 1-1.5 cup sizes. This procedure is best suited for women with smaller breasts who desire a noticeable yet modest increase in breast size. Additionally, women who wish to avoid the use of breast implants or synthetic material may be good candidates for fat transfer to the breasts. Women who desire a greater increase in breast size (more than 1-1.5 cup sizes) may be better suited to breast implants or breast implants in conjunction with fat transfer. Dr. Temmen has detailed conversations with each patient to understand their aesthetic goals and create the perfect plan together.

Another common application of fat transfer is for patients who have previously had breast augmentation with implants but no longer wish to have their breast implants. This may be due to no longer liking the appearance of the implants, capsular contracture (abnormal scarring around the implants), or some other complication. Whatever the reason, Dr. Temmen understands that the decision to have one’s breast implants removed is a personal one, and many women have concerns about what their breasts will look like after implant removal. Dr. Temmen is proud to offer her patients the option of breast implant removal with fat transfer to the breasts. During this procedure, fat transfer is performed following explantation to help fill in the space the implants occupied with soft, natural fat. Patients love this option because it allows them to have their implants removed without the fear of having “deflated” breasts afterwards. Dr. Temmen loves using this specialized procedure to help her patients feel beautiful and confident after implant removal.

While not as well-known to many patients, fat transfer has many applications for use in enhancing the breasts, from adding soft volume on its own, to adding a little extra volume to breast implants, to helping women feel feminine and radiant after breast explantation. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Traci Temmen is an expert at fat transfer techniques, and is proud to offer her specialized services to her patients. Patients appreciate Dr. Temmen’s gentle bedside manner and perfectionist attitude, helping them feel comfortable and cared for throughout their surgical journey. To view examples of real patient transformations following fat transfer to the breasts, please explore the Before and After section of this website. If you would like to learn more about one of the options discussed in this post or any other cosmetic surgical procedure you may be interested in, simply call 813-771-6393 to schedule your personal consultation with Traci Temmen, MD, today!

What is a Brazilian Mommy Makeover?

Most people agree that having children is one of the most rewarding parts of life. Unfortunately, many women are not so happy with the effects pregnancy and aging have on the body. Many women are dissatisfied with breasts that appear saggy and deflated, an abdomen with extra sagging skin and fat that hides their natural curves, and a rear end that is flat and boxy. These natural body changes can leave women feeling disappointed and defeated, longing for the youthful body they once had. Fortunately, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Traci Temmen can offer a solution! The Brazilian Mommy Makeover is an all-in-one full body transformation that may target the bust, abdomen, and butt to help women feel rejuvenated and confident again. This blog post will discuss the components of this procedure as well as who may be a good candidate for it.

First, let’s discuss the components that make up the Brazilian Mommy Makeover. Traditionally, this procedure targets the abdomen and buttocks, with some patients also adding breast enhancement. The first part of the Brazilian Mommy Makeover works to create a flatter, more sculpted abdomen through liposuction, tummy tuck, or a combination depending on patient preferences. The combined liposuction and tummy tuck techniques is a popular choice that first utilizes liposuction to gently sculpt the abdomen into an attractive hourglass while targeting problem areas like the flanks, bank, and sides. Then, excess sagging tissue and skin is removed from the front of the abdomen via a horizontal incision that sits just below the bikini line, tightening and flattening the abdomen.

The next component of the Brazilian Mommy Makeover is what makes it “Brazilian”- the Brazilian Butt Lift! During the BBL, fat that was liposuctioned from the abdomen, back and sides is gently purified and injected into the buttocks to create soft, natural-looking volume without the use of butt implants or synthetic materials. One great feature of the BBL is that different volumes of fat can be precisely injected into various aspects of the buttocks according to the patient’s anatomy and desires. For example, transferring more fat to the sides can fill in stubborn “hip dips”, while injecting more into the back can increase projection. Dr. Temmen takes her time getting to know her patients and their goals during one-on-one discussions in order to tailor this procedure to suit their needs. Patients are thrilled with the results of their BBL to lift and fill out the buttocks, creating the round, full shape they’ve always dreamed of!

Many patients also choose to add breast enhancement to the Brazilian Mommy Makeover for a full body transformation. Dr. Traci Temmen offers patients a variety of options to best suit their desires, including breast lift, breast implants, combined breast lift with implants, or breast reduction. Many women choose the combined option of breast lift with implants. In this procedure, Dr. Temmen first removes excess sagging skin and tissue from the breasts in order to elevate their position on the chest wall and create a perkier, more youthful appearance. Then, breast implants are placed to add beautiful volume and create a full, round shape. Dr. Temmen is proud to offer an array of options, and spends time one-on-one going over the pros and cons of each one to help the patient choose the best option for them.

As you can see, the Brazilian Mommy Makeover truly is highly customizable and truly is the whole package. When meeting with Dr. Temmen, patients can discuss their goals in detail so they can form the perfect personalized plan to help them meet their goals. Ideal candidates for this procedure include women who are done child-bearing and breastfeeding so that the effects of surgery are not impacted by future changes associated with pregnancy. Additionally, patients should be in good health overall, near their ideal body weight, and have not smoked in the past 9-12 months. Every patient will also undergo a thorough history and physical during the initial consultation, as well as any necessary preoperative lab work or imaging. Dr. Temmen prioritizes the safety and wellbeing of her patients above all else, and is fastidious in her evaluation to ensure the safest possible surgery. Patients love her thorough technique and attention to detail, as well as her gentle bedside manner that makes patients feel comfortable and cared for from initial consultation to post-operative follow-up. Simply read her patient reviews and view examples of real patient results in the Gallery section of this website to see for yourself! If you like what you see and would like to learn more about this life-changing procedure, please call 813-771-6393 to book your one-on-one consultation with Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Traci Temmen, MD, today!

Can my nipple size be reduced in breast reduction?

While many women seek to enhance the size of their breasts through the use of implants or fat transfer, plenty of other women are looking to achieve just the opposite. Large or pendulous breasts can cause a multitude of problems for patients, including chronic neck and back pain, discomfort while exercising, difficulty finding clothing that fits, and negative impact on a woman’s confidence and self-esteem. These issues can have a significant impact on quality of life, and unfortunately for many women, recommendations like weight loss and wearing a supportive bra just don’t cut it! For this population, breast reduction surgery offers a safe and effective way to decrease the size of the breasts to a size the patient is comfortable with, correcting many of the issues associated with very large breasts. When considering breast reduction, many women have concerns about how their breasts will look after the procedure. One common question that arises is if the size of the nipple areola complex can be altered for those who wish to decrease the size of their areolas or correct asymmetry. This blog post will give an overview of breast reduction as well as answer this common question.

Breast reduction is a highly effective procedure for reducing the size of the breasts to decrease excess weight and create a proportional, balanced bust line. The first step towards any surgical procedure is having a thorough in-person conversation with your plastic surgeon. Experienced board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Traci Temmen takes her time with each patient to ensure a thorough review of their anatomy and goals, as well as to address all questions. Patients may also raise any concerns they have at this time about undesired asymmetry between the breasts or areolas, as well as the desired size and position of the nipple areola complex. Dr. Temmen understands the importance of this open communication and makes every effort to make each patient feel cared for and listened to while forming a personalized surgical plan to get them the best possible results.

During the procedure itself, a circular incision is made around the perimeter of the nipple areola complex (the junction where the skin color becomes darker). Depending on the scale of the reduction and patient anatomy, sometimes a second vertical incision is made on the breast that connects to the bottom of the peri-areolar incision. While many women have concerns about these scars, most find that they fade significantly with time, and are well worth the overall positive change in their quality of life that comes from this life-altering procedure. After these incisions are made, excess breast tissue is removed while preserving the blood and nerve supply to the nipple. This accomplishes the reduction in breast size, and also allows for correction of any sagging by lifting the breasts to a more youthful position. If the breasts are naturally different sizes, different amounts of tissue can be excised from each breast to restore symmetry. During this procedure, the nipple areola complex is also lifted to a higher position on the breast mound to match the breasts and create a perky appearance. Many patients also desire the size of their areolas to be reduced to match the proportions of their new breasts. This can be accomplished by removing skin from the perimeter of the incision that was made around the areola. Afterwards, the incision is closed to ensure a seamless, proportional, and symmetric look. To correct asymmetry in areola size, more tissue can be taken from the larger areola.

Dr. Traci Temmen recognizes that oversized breasts can have a profound effect on quality of life. She is a meticulous perfectionist with every patient, and is committed to helping women finally feel comfortable and confident in their bodies. For women who are impacted by the negative effects of their large breasts, breast reduction offers a safe and highly effective surgical solution. Dr. Temmen frequently performs areola reduction as part of this procedure to correct enlarged or asymmetrical areolas and create a proportional and balanced appearance. Patients are thrilled with their results, and love being free of the burden of overly cumbersome breasts. To view real examples of patient results, click on the Gallery tab of this website. To learn more about if you may be a good candidate for this procedure, call 813-771-6393 to book your one-on-one consultation with Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Traci Temmen, MD, today!

Can a BBL Fix my Hip Dips?

If you’re looking in the mirror wishing you had a full, round booty, you’re not alone! In fact, in recent years the number of people choosing to enhance their butt through plastic surgery has skyrocketed, making the Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) one of the fastest growing procedures in America. Contrary to popular belief, most people are interested in getting a BBL not so much to get a bigger butt (although that is true for some!) but more to improve the overall shape of their derriere. Some women have naturally flat or rectangular butts, and wish they had a curvier physique. Others are bothered by stubborn hip dips, or indentations on the outside of the hips that won’t fill in despite special workout that target the butt and hips. No matter the reason, sometimes all the sumo squats in the world still can’t produce the best booty, leaving many patients feeling frustrated. Fortunately, the Brazilian Butt Lift offers a highly effective and safe surgical solution for women looking to finally get the butt of their dreams! This blog post will briefly explain how this procedure is performed as well as answer one common question women have who are considering this procedure, “Can a BBL fix my hip dips?”

Part of the reason the BBL has become so popular that it performs double duty, using a magical combination of liposuction and fat transfer to literally take fat from where you don’t want it and put it where you do! First, precisely targeted liposuction is used to gently remove unwanted fat. When Dr. Temmen meets with her patients, she goes over with them in detail the problem areas they want her to target, such as fat on the belly, thighs, or love handles. She can then pay extra attention to these areas on the OR to ensure these fat deposits are melted away. The power and precision of liposuction allows Dr. Temmen to gently accentuate the patient’s natural curves, sculpting the body into an attractive hourglass. After the body has been slimmed and shaped using liposuction, the fat that was removed is purified and prepared for transfer. Special cannulas are then used to inject the fat into the desired aspects of the buttocks. This process is precisely tailored to the patient’s desires to add fat wherever she wants it. Some patients are satisfied with their overall shape but want to increase their volume. Others are bothered by a flat butt, and desire fat injection to increase projection in the back. Many others simply want an all-around smoother, rounder shape that will look great in their favorite pair of jeans or bikini bottoms. No matter the goal, the beauty of the BBL is it can be perfectly customized to meet the patient’s needs by a skilled plastic surgeon like Dr. Traci Temmen.

Finally, let’s return to the question raised at the beginning of this post: What about hip dips? Can those be corrected during a BBL too? The answer to this question is yes, even those stubborn hip dips that can be corrected during a BBL! This is accomplished by injecting some of the fat taken during liposuction into the depressions on the sides of the hips to create a smooth, natural-looking contour from hip to leg. Even though this is a relatively small part of the procedure, it has a big effect on overall appearance because it is the silhouette people see when they look in the mirror. It means a lot to patients to finally see those indentations filled in, helping them feel beautiful and confident.

Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Traci Temmen is an expert at skillfully injecting different volumes of fat into different areas of the buttocks in order to create that perfect shape, and patients are thrilled with the results! In the hands of an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Temmen, the BBL is a very safe and effective way to slim the tummy, perk up the booty, and create beautiful curves – all using your own natural supply of fat! To view real examples of stunning patient transformations including correction of hip dips, please navigate to the Gallery tab of this website and click on Brazilian Butt Lift. If you are ready to take the next step towards learning more about this life-changing procedure, simply call 813-771-6393 to book your one-on-one consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Traci Temmen, MD, today.

What are my options if I am dissatisfied with the outcome of my breast implants?

Breast augmentation with implants is one of the most popular plastic surgeries in America, allowing women to enhance the size and shape of their bust line to boost confidence and overall happiness. The vast majority of patients are very pleased with the final result of their breast implants, finding that they feel more attractive and comfortable in their new body. While uncommon, unfortunately there is a minority of patients who are dissatisfied with their result after surgery. This blog post will discuss possible reasons for this, strategies to minimize the risk of this happening to you, and what your options are if you are dissatisfied with your surgical outcome.

When a woman gets breast implants, it is important to be happy with the size, shape, and position of the implants. When a patient is unhappy with her outcome, often times it is the size that is the issue. Sometimes an implant size that seems like the right size on the outside has less of an impact once situated in the body. This may be more likely to occur in women with more significant overlying tissues and larger body habitus. Likewise, an implant that seems the proper size beforehand may look too big or dramatic to a patient after surgery. This may be more common in patients who are very slender with little overlying tissues, making the implant stand out more. Sometimes, patients may be dissatisfied with the shape of their breasts after implantation. This could be due to the shape of the implants themselves, or due to abnormal contracture or scarring of the capsule around the implant. In addition, a patient may be unhappy with the position of the implants, such as those that sit higher or lower than expected on the chest wall.

To minimize the risk of being unhappy with your implants, the single most important thing is to make sure you choose an experienced board certified plastic surgeon who you trust to take care of you from start to finish. Your surgeon will be meeting with you at every step in the process from initial consultation to post-op follow up, so it is of paramount importance that you work well as a team. This person should take the time to answer all of your questions and address any concerns you have at any point during the process. They should also perform breast augmentation with implants regularly, and have real patient example photos available for viewing of their work. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Traci Temmen loves making patients’ dreams come true, and is highly skilled and experienced in cosmetic breast surgery. She has numerous patient examples showcased in the Gallery section of this website, and even more available to view in the office. She also operates on patients with a wide variety of body shapes and sizes with excellent outcomes, allowing you to see what kind of results patients who look similar to you have received. Dr. Temmen understands the importance of open and honest communication, and works hard to make sure every patient has a realistic understanding of how their final result will look. Elements of this process include detailed one-on-one consultation, going over sample patient photos and “wish pics” together, “trying on” different implants under clothing, and taking detailed and precise measurements of the patient’s upper body. Each of these steps helps ensure that the patient has as complete a picture of their result as possible prior to surgery, and is thrilled with their final result.

So, in the rare cases that a patient is unhappy with their breast implants, what are their options? Uncommonly, a patient may wish to have their implants removed entirely if they prefer the way they looked without implants. More commonly, the patient is dissatisfied with the size of the implant. In this case, the implants can be switched out for a bigger or smaller size depending on what the patient wants. In other cases, the patient may be unhappy with the shape of the breast after implantation. This could be affected by the way scar tissue impacts the shape of the breast, or processes such as “bottoming out” where the implant stretches the skin at the bottom of the breast. In these cases, a revision may be performed to remove problematic scar tissue, reshape the pocket where the implant sits, and ensure optimal implant position. Dr. Temmen is trained to manage any complication following breast implantation, and is ready to help when a woman wants her implants to be removed, replaced, or revised.

Breast augmentation with implants can be a life-changing procedure for women who desire fuller breasts. While the vast majority of patients are happy with their result, a small number of women find themselves dissatisfied after surgery. In these rare instances, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Traci Temmen is ready to listen to her concerns and perform an appropriate correction, whether it be through implant removal, replacement, or revision. Dr. Temmen is a perfectionist, and she is committed to providing a beautiful result for every patient. To learn more about if you may be a good candidate for breast augmentation with implants or any other cosmetic surgical procedure, call 813-771-6393 to book your one-on-one consultation with Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Traci Temmen, MD, today!

Do I Need Liposuction or a Tummy Tuck?

With bikini season on the horizon, many women may be thinking more and more about ways to flatten and tone their midsection. Dieting and exercise can make a big difference for many women, but unfortunately for some, even all of this hard work doesn’t quite get them the body they want. For these women, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Traci Temmen is happy to offer a variety of plastic surgery options to improve the appearance of the abdomen, helping women finally achieve the body of their dreams! This post will discuss two of these options in detail to help prospective patients learn more about if liposuction or tummy tuck is the best option for them.

Liposuction is the most popular plastic surgery in the country, helping countless patients flatten and tone their tummy to get the body they want. While there are many different types of liposuction advertised on the internet, most of them operate by the same basic concept of first infusing a solution that helps break up the fat, and then suctioning out the unwanted fat along with the solution. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Traci Temmen utilizes a technique called tumescent liposuction in her practice. This methodology is the top choice of many plastic surgeons as it is a safe, reliable, and consistently produces a natural looking and attractive result. In this method, a large volume of salt solution that includes local anesthetic (lidocaine) and a drug that constricts blood vessels (epinephrine) is first injected into the areas where fat will be removed. The lidocaine helps to reduce pain when the patient wakes up, the epinephrine decreases bleeding, and the salt solution helps separate the fat from the underlying tissues to facilitate removal. Liposuction is then performed to gently suction out the solution and the broken up fat. After liposuction is complete, Dr. Temmen ensures equal redistribution of the thin layer of natural fat that remains in order to ensure a smooth, flawless result.

In contrast to liposuction which works by suctioning out fat, a tummy tuck also surgically removes excess unwanted tissue and skin. In this procedure, Dr. Temmen starts with liposuction as described above to begin flattening the belly and sculpting the abdomen into an attractive hourglass. Once liposuction is complete, she then performs the “tummy tuck” part of the procedure by making a low horizontal incision on the abdomen under the bikini line. This allows excess sagging tissue and skin to be removed and the remaining tissue to be pulled neatly together to tighten and tone the abdomen. For women who have separation of the abdominal muscles secondary to pregnancy, weight gain, or aging, Dr. Temmen can also surgically pull these muscles back together to further cinch in the waistline. Women are typically very happy with their flattened, toned stomach created through tummy tuck, and are amazed that their resulting scar is shorter than that for a C-section, and easily concealed beneath most underwear or bathing suit bottoms.

Now that we have laid out the basics of these two procedures, let’s discuss the reasons why one might be a better fit over another for a given patient. Liposuction is a great option for women who wish to remove some stubborn fat deposits from their abdomen, but overall are happy with their overall abdominal tone. This means good candidates for liposuction generally don’t have a lot of loose hanging skin on their abdomen that they wish to remove, as that can only be accomplished through a tummy tuck. Women better suited to a tummy tuck may have extra sagging skin and tissue that has been stretched out by past weight gain or pregnancy that can be removed during this procedure. An additional factor some patients may want to consider is scar placement and size. Liposuction is accomplished through tiny laparoscopic incisions that are each only a few millimeters big. Tummy tuck also utilizes these small incisions for the liposuction portion of the procedure, but additionally requires the longer low transverse incision described above. Therefore, liposuction may be a more appealing option for those who really want their scars to be as tiny as possible. That being said, most women are very pleased with their tummy tuck scar since it is so easily hidden beneath standard underwear, and blends very well with the natural skin creases of the lower abdomen.

Liposuction and tummy tuck are both great options for patients to consider for flattening and smoothing their midsection. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Traci Temmen specializes in these procedures and prides herself in creating beautiful results her patients are happy with. To view real life examples of patient transformations, explore the Gallery tab of this website and see the amazing results for yourself! To learn more about if you may be a candidate for one of these life-changing procedures, call 813-771-6393 to book your one-on-one consultation with Traci Temmen, MD today.