Author Archives: Dr. Traci Temmen

What is Hybrid Breast Augmentation?

For women wishing to enhance their bust line, the options can seem overwhelming! Cosmetic breast surgery comes in many different shapes and sizes, ranging from breast implantation to fat transfer techniques to breast lifts and reductions. Luckily, with the aid of the internet it is now easier than ever for prospective patients to start learning about their options before they even set foot inside a surgeon’s office. Today’s blog post is geared towards providing education on one such option patients may not be very familiar with called “hybrid breast augmentation”, a form a breast enhancement that utilizes a combination of breast implant and fat transfer techniques. Hopefully by the end of this post, you will have a better understanding of this procedure and its benefits so you can continue to hone in on your options moving forward.

Before diving into the details of hybrid breast augmentation, I will give a quick overview of its two components – breast implantation and fat transfer to the breast. Breast implants are a popular choice for breast augmentation known for creating beautiful, highly effective results. There are many different implant types to choose from, including saline versus silicone, as well as what size and shape of implant is right for the desired appearance. Implants are a versatile choice that will work for virtually any patient, but are especially well suited to those looking for a larger increase in cup size that might be difficult to achieve with fat transfer alone. On the other hand, fat transfer is another technique for breast enhancement that uses liposuction to harvest the patient’s own body fat which is then purified and transferred to the breasts. The liposuction segment of this procedure is tailored to each unique patient but usually removes unwanted fat from the abdomen, back, and sides in order to sculpt a smoother, slimmer shape while highlighting the patient’s natural curves. Many patients like that because this technique uses their own natural fat, the final result has a very natural look and feel. However, fat transfer alone typically can only be used for modest increases in breast size (half to one full cup size) due to limitations on the volume of fat that can be successfully transferred.

Now that you have a general understanding of the two parts of hybrid breast augmentation, let’s talk about what happens when you put them together! In this procedure, the surgeon uses breast implants while also performing liposuction with fat transfer to add additional volume and shape to the breasts. There are several advantages of this. First, combining breast implants with fat transfer allows a smaller size implant to be used since a portion of the desired volume will come from the patient’s own fat. This may not sound like a big deal, but using a smaller implant is preferable because it puts less stress on the surrounding tissues and is gentler on the body. Another advantage of hybrid breast augmentation is that it enables the surgeon to increase volume while also correcting asymmetry between the breasts. This is accomplished by precisely transferring different volumes of fat to various aspects of the breast to adjust for any discrepancies, helping to create a more natural-looking and symmetrical result. This is an especially good option for patients who would like to significantly increase their cup size (which could not be accomplished with fat transfer alone,) while also correcting for asymmetry. Along similar lines, hybrid breast augmentation also allows patients to further customize their result by making small adjustments with targeted fat transfers. For example, many patients wish to add a little extra volume to the upper part of the breast to accentuate cleavage. Finally, hybrid techniques offer a special advantage to women who are older and have thinner overlying skin and tissues. For these women, sometimes the small wrinkles or rippling of breast implants might show through their tissues because they are so thin. However, combining breast implants with fat transfer allows a layer of natural fat to be transferred on top of the implants to provide a cushion, helping to disguise the implant and create a more natural look.

In regards to the disadvantages of hybrid breast augmentation, there really aren’t many! The main downside for patients is that because this procedure combines multiple techniques, it costs more than other methods. However, the price is well worth it to many patients for the beautiful results. Many patients may find that breast implantation or fat transfer alone suits their needs just fine. But for those who wish to use a smaller implant, create a more natural look, or correct asymmetry, hybrid might just be the perfect option! Explore the Before and After section of this website to view real examples of past patient transformations and see the stunning results for yourself. If you would like to learn more about if this procedure may be right for you, simply call 813-771-6393 to schedule your one-on-one consultation with Traci Temmen, MD, today!

Should I get Saline or Silicone Breast Implants?

Everyone is unique and beautiful in their own way, and in the era of body positivity, more and more women are embracing their bodies just the way they are. This is a wonderful movement that has helped many women feel more comfortable in their own skin, and confident in their appearance. However, it is important to recognize that it is perfectly normal for there to be some things about your body that you wish you could change – almost no one is happy with every single thing! In many cases, diet, exercise, and healthy lifestyle changes can go a long way towards affecting positive change in your body. However, unfortunately some areas of the body such as the breasts can’t really be “worked out” to change their appearance. Many women are dissatisfied with breasts that they feel are too small, making it difficult for them to find flattering bras and clothing, feel confident during intimacy, or feel feminine and attractive. Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Traci Temmen understands the far-reaching effects feeling self-conscious or uncomfortable in your body can have, and is happy to offer an array of breast enhancement options for women to consider. This post will discuss the popular method of breast augmentation of breast implants, as well as dive into the differences between the two main types of implants, saline and silicone.

Breast augmentation with implants is a safe and highly effective option for enhancing the size and shape of the breasts, making it one of the most common plastic surgeries in America. During one-on-one consultation with Dr. Temmen, patients can discuss what kind of result they are hoping for, as well as review real patient before and after photos to get an idea of what other patient transformations have looked like. Part of this discussion will also include going over the options for scar location (in the armpit, around the areola, or under the breast fold), and implant placement (above or below the muscle). Patients are then given the opportunity to “try on” different implant types and sizes under their clothes to help them imagine what different options would look like. Once an implant is selected, Dr. Temmen will make final custom adjustments to size in the operating room to best match the patient’s preferences.

So, how does one choose a breast implant? Well, the first big decision is choosing between saline and silicone, which the remainder of this blog will discuss. From a safety standpoint, both implant types are FDA approved and safe options for patients when inserted by an experienced and skilled board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Traci Temmen. The only exception is that currently, the only implant type that is FDA approved for patients ages 18-21 is saline. The difference between these two implant types is what they are composed of. Saline implants are made of a thin silicone shell that is then filled up with sterile saline to the desired size. Silicone implants, on the other hand, are solid and made of soft silicone throughout, and come in many different sizes and shapes. Generally, saline implants are a little less expensive than silicone. Silicone implants often look a little more natural than saline, especially in women with thin overlying tissues where any mild rippling or wrinkling of the saline implant surface may show through the skin. Some patients also prefer the more natural feel of silicone implants (jelly-like) compared to saline (water balloon). In terms of complications, saline implant rupture is normally quickly visually apparent to the patient (think of a popped water balloon), whereas silicone implant ruptures may not be noticeable to the naked eye and require imaging to pick up. In the event of rupture, a saline implant is also a little easier to resolve than silicone because saline can be naturally absorbed by the body leaving just the shell to be removed during surgery, whereas if a silicone implant ruptures, all of the silicone will have to be removed during surgery.

For women who wish to enhance the size or shape of their breasts, implants are a safe and highly effective option to consider. Overall, choosing the right implant involves considering the patient’s anatomy, current appearance and aesthetic goals, and always involves detailed one-on-one discussion with their plastic surgeon. Dr. Traci Temmen has performed numerous breast augmentations with both saline and silicone implants with stunning results, and is committed to working with each patient to find the perfect option for them! Please explore the Gallery tab on this website to view real examples of beautiful patient results. If you are interested in learning more about if you may be a candidate for breast enhancement with implants, please call 813-771-6393 to book your personal consultation with Traci Temmen, MD today!

Treat Yourself for the Holidays!

With the holidays just around the corner, now is the perfect time to think not just about gifts for loved ones, but also for yourself! After all of the craziness this past year has brought, you deserve it. While it’s always fun to open the presents underneath the tree, the best gifts are not tangible things, but life-changing experiences. This year, why not treat yourself to the gift of a lifetime and finally get that cosmetic surgical procedure you’ve been dreaming about. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Traci Temmen is expertly trained and experienced in a variety of plastic surgeries for the face and body, and is ready to use her surgical expertise to help you look and feel amazing. This post will touch upon a few of the most popular plastic surgeries offered by Dr. Temmen at the Temmen Plastic Surgery, and give you a few more reasons to put one at the top of your list this year!

Your face is the first thing people look at when you walk into a room, and is truly how you present yourself to the world. While it’s important to celebrate everyone’s individual beauty, it is also okay to feel dissatisfied or unhappy with an aspect of your appearance. Some people may have a specific area that bothers them, such as a nose that is disproportionate to the rest of the face, or eyelids that droop and make the face look much older. Procedures that target these areas like rhinoplasty (or “nose job”) and blepharoplasty (eyelid lift) can correct these troublesome areas and restore confidence. For many others, there may not be one feature that bothers them but rather generalized aging of the face may negatively impact self-confidence and make the patient feel older than they are. For these patients, in office non-surgical procedures like Botox or filler injections can work wonders by gently softening wrinkles and helping fine lines disappear. Surgical procedures such as face lifts may also be a good option to consider. No matter the procedure, Dr. Temmen takes great care to ensure a natural, beautiful, and symmetric result for each and every patient. To view real patient examples, navigate to the Gallery section of this website.

Other patients may be most impacted by an area of the body that causes them significant embarrassment, discomfort, or lack of confidence. Common areas women wish to change are the breasts, abdomen, and butt. For the breasts, Dr. Temmen offers a variety of procedures depending on the patient’s desires. Options such as breast implants and fat transfer to the breast can add volume to the breasts and create a fuller and rounder shape, while a breast lift elevates sagging breasts for a more youthful appearance. Dr. Temmen also specializes in breast reduction to decrease the size of very large breasts, help alleviate chronic neck and back pain, and improve overall quality of life. For women looking to improve the shape of their midsection, the tummy tuck procedure with liposuction is a great option to bring in the waistline, trim excess fat from the abdomen, and accentuate natural curves to create a natural looking and attractive hourglass figure. This procedure can even be combined with breast enhancement in a “Mommy Makeover” for those looking for a full body transformation! Patients hoping to improve the appearance of their derriere may be interested in the Brazilian Butt Lift, a highly effective two-part surgery that utilizes liposuction to remove unwanted fat from the midsection, back and sides, before transferring it to the buttocks to add volume and create a round, attractive shape.

If you’d like to make a positive change in your appearance and healthy lifestyle changes just aren’t making the cut, now is the time to take charge! In fact, the holidays are the perfect time to have plastic surgery for a couple of reasons. For one, most patients have time off from work during the holiday season, providing plenty of time for healing and recovery. Secondly, with the new year fast approaching, this is a great time to prepare yourself to live your best life in the new year! And one part of that is taking action to make sure you look your best so you can feel your best, ringing in the new year with radiance and confidence. If you’d like to find out more about a surgical procedure you are interested in, call 813-771-6393 to book your individual consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Traci Temmen, M.D. today!

Does Insurance cover Labiaplasty?

As we age, gain weight, or have children, everyone’s body changes. Unfortunately, it usually isn’t in the ways we want it to! This toll on the body may manifest in many ways, such as sagging skin around the midsection, breasts that hang lower than they used to, or stubborn fat deposits that just won’t budge. Although it isn’t talked about as much, many women are also dissatisfied with the changes that take place in their genital region. In particular, many women are bothered by elongated or enlarged labia that cause uncomfortable irritation against clothing, while exercising, or during intercourse. Some women also feel embarrassed by these changes and find themselves avoiding tight clothing or intimacy, or simply feeling less confident and dissatisfied with their appearance. Whatever the reason, Dr. Traci Temmen understands that this is a sensitive topic for all women and is happy to offer a surgical solution for those seeking relief from painful irritation and renewed confidence in their body. One such option is labiaplasty, a surgical procedure that reduces the size of enlarged labia. This post will briefly discuss this procedure as well as answer one question many patients have regarding this procedure, which is if it will be covered by their insurance.

Labiaplasty is performed as an out-patient procedure at Temmen Plastic Surgery, a boutique surgical center in South Tampa that prioritizes patient privacy and comfort. This procedure typically takes about one hour to complete, but varies depending on each patient’s individual anatomy. During this procedure, the patient receives local anesthesia and may be offered anti-anxiety medication depending on how she feels, but remains awake and breathing on her own. During the procedure, Dr. Temmen carefully removes the excess tissue from the labia and closes the tissue with the incision oriented away from the vaginal opening to ensure optimal patient comfort. Patients are usually very happy that they are able to go home shortly after their surgery, and return to work the next day, resume light exercise in three weeks, and sexual activity in six weeks.

For women considering this procedure, one of the first questions on their mind is if it will be covered by their insurance. Unfortunately, the short answer to this is that in most cases, labiaplasty will not be covered by insurance. Typically, insurance will cover procedures that are deemed medically necessary, such as fixing a broken leg after a car accident. However, it will not cover procedures that it classifies as “cosmetic”, or for aesthetic purposes. Some plastic surgeries such as labiaplasty may have elements of both. For example, breast reduction is often performed to alleviate back and neck pain in addition to reducing the size of the breasts to improve their appearance. Careful documentation of the chronic pain in these cases may result in insurance companies being willing to cover a breast reduction. Unfortunately, although many women pursue labiaplasty not just for aesthetic reasons but also due to painful irritation that negatively impacts their quality of life, insurance companies will still typically not cover the procedure. Although it is unlikely that it will be covered, patients are still encouraged to request reimbursement from their insurance company. Fortunately, labiaplasties are not as expensive as many other plastic surgeries, starting at approximately $3,200 with local anesthesia. Many women also take advantage of the convenient payment options available that allow payment with check, credit card, or CareCredit, a special credit card that that offers low monthly payments for cosmetic surgery procedures. Overall, most women are very happy with their decision to undergo labiaplasty and find that the price tag is worth the significant improvements in their quality of life.

For women who are significantly impacted by labia that are enlarged and causing pain and embarrassment, there is no need to suffer in silence! Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Traci Temmen is highly trained and experienced in performing labiaplasty to help women live comfortable, pain-free, and confident lives. To view examples of surgical results, please navigate to the Gallery tab of this website. (Note that due to the sensitive nature of these images, more may be viewed during an in-person consultation than those displayed here.) If you are interested in learning more about if you may be a candidate for this life-changing procedure, please call 813-771-6393 to book your one-on-one consultation with Traci Temmen, MD today!

What Kind of Liposuction is Best?

For many people, no matter how many miles they run or calories they cut, some stubborn fat deposits always remain. In particular, many women struggle to eliminate problem areas like “love handles” and “bra bulge” despite their best efforts. Fortunately, there is a safe and effective option for getting rid of these unsightly fat deposits once and for all – liposuction! In recent history, liposuction has steadily gained popularity by giving plastic surgeons the power to melt away fat to sculpt a slimmer, smoother physique. As liposuction has continued to grow, many different varieties have arisen for patients and surgeons to choose from. This post will give a brief overview of liposuction as well as answer a common question posed to board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Traci Temmen, which is, “What kind of liposuction is best?”

Liposuction was first invented in the 1970s, and since then has become the most common cosmetic surgery in America. Dr. Traci Temmen frequently performs liposuction for her patients both on its own and in conjunction with other procedures such as tummy tuck or Brazilian butt lift. When performed alone, liposuction may be used to eliminate problem areas of fat as well as sculpt an attractive hourglass figure. When performed with other procedures, liposuction can work synergistically to further enhance results. For example, a tummy tuck is a procedure that surgically removes fat from the abdomen to flatten the stomach. When combined with the power of liposuction, this procedure not only flattens the abdomen but also creates a natural looking, curvy waistline that has been tailored to match the patient’s anatomy and aesthetic goals. In the case of a Brazilian butt lift, liposuction is performed on the stomach, back and sides to harvest fat that will then be injected into the buttocks. This accomplishes two goals at once by bringing in the waistline and eliminating love handles while also adding extra volume and fullness to the butt.

As you can see, there are numerous applications of liposuction. Likewise, there are many different types that are often advertised, including everything from tickle to high def to ultrasound or laser assisted. These varieties differ in what is injected into the body to facilitate fat removal, as well as the method of preparing the fat to be suctioned (i.e. with IV solution vs ultrasound waves vs laser beam.) Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Traci Temmen utilizes a technique called tumescent liposuction in her practice. In this method, a large volume of fluid is first injected into the areas where fat will be removed. This fluid consists of a salt solution that includes local anesthetic (lidocaine) and a drug that constricts blood vessels (epinephrine). The lidocaine helps to reduce pain, the epinephrine lessens bleeding and bruising, and the salt 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. 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. 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. Dr. Temmen’s patients are consistently impressed with their slim and sculpted physiques after liposuction, and are amazed at the tiny size of their surgical scars which become nearly invisible with time.

Liposuction is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in America for a reason – It can dramatically affect the appearance of the body while perserving patient safety and comfort and minimizing scars and down time. Dr. Temmen is highly skilled and experienced in performing this procedure, and consistently achieves stunning results with her meticulous surgical technique and commitment to perfection. To view real life examples of patient transformations, please navigate to the Gallery tab of this website and see the amazing results for yourself! To learn more about if you may be interested in this transformative procedure, call 813-771-6393 to book your one-on-one consultation with Traci Temmen, MD today.

Different Opinions from Different Plastic Surgeons

When considering plastic surgery to improve the function and/or appearance of an area of the body, there is “no one size fits all” option. In fact, precisely which surgical options may be the best fit for a particular patient is a complex equation that takes into account many variables including the patient’s age, body habitus, current appearance, desired appearance, lifestyle, and many more. Due to the high level of complexity, it is not uncommon for a patient to receive different opinions as to what is the best course of action from different plastic surgeons. This can be distressing for patients, as they may feel torn between multiple choices and unsure which one is the best one for them. In this post, I will discuss this common dilemma and offer some guidance for how to navigate this to find the right option for you.

The field of plastic surgery is unique in that one of its core characteristics is the ability to be precisely tailored to the individual. In fact, it is a common misconception that the word “plastic” in the context of plastic surgery means synthetic – It actually means to mold or shape. The best plastic surgeons have perfected the artistry of their craft, and are able to tailor their procedure to match the individual patient’s anatomy and goals. This space for customization gives patients more options when working with their surgeon to design a surgical plan that is personalized for them. However, the flip side of this this freedom is that patients may receive many differing opinions from different plastic surgeons. One common example of this is in breast enhancement, one of the most popular areas of plastic surgery. There are many different options for improving the appearance of the breasts, such as through a breast lift, breast augmentation, or combination of both. Within the option of a breast lift, there are more choices such as the surgical approach and where the scar will be placed. Within breast augmentation, there are even more options including the many different varieties of implants such as saline versus silicone, and the different sizes and shapes available. Thus, it’s easy to see how a patient interested in breast enhancement might receive multiple different recommendations from different plastic surgeons. This does not necessarily mean that any of them are wrong or bad, just that the patient has several options to explore.

So, in these situations how should you decide what to do? I wish I could say there was a way for you to just enter all of your information into a magic formula and find the perfect solution. Unfortunately, there is no straightforward answer and the best approach boils down to two things: Doing your research and trusting your gut. For the research component of this, first and foremost it is essential to only consider recommendations from plastic surgeons who have been certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. This ensures that your surgeon has passed all of their tests and completed the necessary rigorous training to become a plastic surgeon. Next, go on their websites and view pictures of real patients in their Photo Gallery, paying special attention to patients whose “before” pictures looked similar to you and whose “after” pictures are similar to the results you are looking for. This will give you an idea of the quality of their work, as well as what procedures produced the results you desire for other patients. It is also a great idea to read real patient reviews to get an idea of if most patients are happy with their results, or if you see a recurring problem or red flag. (And of course, make sure to read more than the couple of glowing reviews that are featured on the front page of their website!)

At this point, you should have narrowed your pool to only include the opinions of board-certified plastic surgeons who are experienced, safe, and consistently produce excellent results, and you should also have some ideas about what options you think are best suited for you based off of your research. If at this point you still have a few different options you are considering, now it is time to trust your gut! Take time to carefully consider your choices, and don’t rush into making a decision you are not ready for. It is better to take your time going through the options than to quickly make a decision that you will later regret – after all, this is surgery! Furthermore, you should never feel rushed or pressured into a decision by a plastic surgeon. If this happens, take it as a sign that you may need to find someone else. A good surgeon understands that surgery of any kind is a big decision, and will support you in considering all of your options until you feel ready to make your choice. At the end of the day, you are the one who knows your body best!

Receiving different recommendations from different doctors can be frustrating, but it also creates opportunity for patients to get involved in their care and learn about the options available to them. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Traci Temmen encourages patients to do their research, look at Before and After photos of real patients in the Gallery of this website, and read patient reviews. She welcomes questions and concerns, and takes the time to address each one thoroughly during her one-on-one consultations with patients. Patients are consistently impressed with her gentle demeanor and meticulous surgical skill, and admire the way she makes them feel at ease from their first initial consultation. To see for yourself why so many patients choose board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Traci Temmen, book your individual consultation by calling 813-771-6393, today!

Breast Reduction Size

Breast augmentation with implants is one of the most popular plastic surgeries, enhancing the shape and size of the breasts with the use of saline or silicone implants. For women with smaller breasts who have always wished they were larger, this surgery can truly be life-changing and help them feel more confident and beautiful every day. However, there is also a population of women who have the opposite problem, where their breasts are too large. This can lead to health problems like chronic back and neck pain, difficulty exercising comfortably, and struggling to find clothes that fit well. These women often find themselves increasingly frustrated and unhappy, feeling trapped by a body that negatively impacts their quality of life. Luckily, the field of plastic surgery offers a solution in the form of breast reduction surgery for those women who are tired of dealing with the negative consequences of their breast size and ready to make a change. This blog post will give an overview of this surgery as well as answer a common question many women have who are considering breast reduction, which is “How many cup sizes can I go down with breast reduction without impacting the nipple?”

First, I will briefly explain the steps of breast reduction surgery. The first step is for board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Temmen to meet with the patient one-on-one to discuss the patient’s goals and plan the surgery. During this visit, Dr. Temmen performs a thorough physical exam, reviews the patient’s medical history, and discusses the patient’s goals for surgery. Often times, Dr. Temmen also encourages patients to look at real patient before and after pictures on this website and identify some examples of the kind of results they are hoping for. During this consultation, Dr. Temmen and the patient create a surgical plan together, as well as address any questions or concerns the patient has. All of this prep ensures that the patient feels safe, comfortable, and fully informed well in advance of the day of surgery. During surgery, Dr. Traci Temmen first carefully removes the excess breast tissue in order to decrease breast volume to the size that the patient desires. Removing this tissue also reduces the weight on the patient’s back and neck, helping to lighten the burden and reduce chronic pain. Once the tissue has been removed, Dr. Temmen raises the position of the nipple-areola complex and surgically tightens the skin of the breasts. This works to create a full and youthful shape and reduce sagginess. Depending on the degree of sagging the patient has, Dr. Temmen may need to make an additional incision that runs vertically from the bottom of the breast to tighten up the tissues. Although many patients are initially concerned about this scar, it fades and becomes barely noticeable with time, and the vast majority of patients are very happy with their final appearance.

One of the questions at the forefront of many patients’ minds who are considering surgical breast reduction is how many cup sizes they can go down without impacting the nipple. One point to note first is that patients tend to underestimate their cup size and might think their breasts are smaller than they actually are. Generally, Dr. Temmen is able to decrease a patient’s breast size up to about three cup sizes before the nipple will be impacted. Most patients want a reduction within this range, and therefore there is no need to reposition the nipple-areola complex. However, in some cases where the patient’s breasts are very large and she desires greater than a three cup size reduction, removing such a large amount of breast tissue may threaten the blood supply to the nipple. In these cases, Dr. Temmen recommends removing the nipple and then reattaching it to the breast as a skin graft. The grafted nipple will grow a new blood supply, but may be flatter and have reduced sensation. Nevertheless, this is a good option for women whose excessively large breasts are negatively impacting their quality of life, and would get great benefit from substantial reduction to reach a size that is much lighter and more comfortable.

Breast reduction surgery is popular among women who are negatively affected by their large breast size, alleviating many of the associated issues such as chronic back pain, difficulty finding clothing, and discomfort while exercising. Dr. Traci Temmen is experienced in this procedure, and works hand-in-hand with every patient to tailor each surgery to the individual patient’s anatomy and desires. To learn more about if you may be a good candidate for breast reduction, call 813-771-6393 to book your one-on-one consultation with Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Traci Temmen, MD, today!

Am I too Old or Young for Labiaplasty? 18-75

When people think of plastic surgery, a few of the procedures that probably come to mind first are breast augmentation, liposuction, and butt lifts. Tales of celebrities undergoing these surgeries frequently grace the pages of popular magazines, and some of these procedures even make appearances in advertisements on billboards and park benches. However, there is at least one area of plastic surgery that is becoming increasingly common, but still remains somewhat taboo – labiaplasty. This is a surgical procedure that reduces the size of the labia or “wings” that frame the vaginal opening. This blog post will explain the reasons many women are interested in labiaplasty, provide a brief overview of the procedure itself, and address a common question of there is a such a thing as being too old or too young for this procedure.

Whether it’s due to aging, the effects of childbirth, or simply one’s genetics, it is not uncommon for a woman to experience embarrassment or discomfort due to her external genitalia at some point in her life. Sometimes, women are unhappy that their labia appear elongated or asymmetrical, causing embarrassment with sexual partners or even showing through form-fitting clothing such as yoga pants or bathing suit bottoms. In other cases, the labia may be enlarged to a point of causing pain or discomfort during intercourse or from rubbing against clothing. Dr. Traci Temmen understands that experiencing embarrassment or discomfort over this very intimate area of the body can be distressing for many women, and is committed to making every patient feel comfortable and cared for from initial consultation to post-op follow up. Patients are consistently impressed with her gentle bedside manner and meticulous surgical approach, and feel at ease knowing that their procedure will be performed with the utmost discretion and privacy at Temmen Plastic Surgery.

The labiaplasty procedure itself is a short procedure that generally takes approximately 45 minutes, and is performed under local anesthesia. Most patients are very pleased with the short length of the procedure and that they are able to return home shortly after with little to no down time. During the consultation for a labiaplasty, Dr. Temmen works with the patient and makes precise measurements to determine exactly how much tissue will be removed in order to create the desired final result. During the surgery itself, Dr. Temmen carefully removes the excess tissue from the labia minora and closes the incision so that the suture line is oriented away from the vaginal opening. This ensures that there will be minimal rubbing against the incision line during intercourse, optimizing patient comfort. Generally, the goal of this part of the procedure is to make it so that the labia minora lie closer to the body where they can be protected by the outer labia majora, eliminating painful friction. For some women who wish to also reduce the size of their labia majora, Dr. Temmen may peform liposuction or surgical excision of this tissue as well during the procedure.

Now that we have gone over the possible indications for a labiaplasty as well as the overall description of the procedure, I will answer one of the most common questions on the minds of many women who are considering this procedure, which is, “What age should I get a labiaplasty?” When considering this procedure, many women find themselves asking if they’re too young or too old for a labiaplasty. In fact, for this procedure, age is actually not a big factor. As discussed above, this procedure is fairly short, requires minimal down time, and is performed primarily on the superficial soft tissue in the genital region. Dr. Temmen has performed safe and effective labiaplasties on patients of all ages, ranging from as young as 13 up to age 75, with great results across the board. There is no need to worry if you are the “wrong age” for a labiaplasty, because there isn’t really a wrong age. What’s important is that the patient has thought through her reasons for getting this procedure such as those discussed above, and feels confident in her decision and in her choice of a board-certified plastic surgeon who frequently performs labiaplasties with excellent outcomes. It is always a good idea also to view some real patient examples of Before and After pictures when choosing a surgeon in order to get a better idea of what kind of result you may expect. There are many photos of labiaplasty results in the Before and After section of this website that show Dr. Temmen’s consistently excellent surgical results.

Whether a woman is interested in learning more about labiaplasty due to embarrassment or dissatisfaction with her appearance or to alleviate pain and discomfort, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Traci Temmen understands that this is a very personal decision, and works hard to ensure that every patient feels listened to and cared for throughout their experience. If you are interested in learning more about if you may be a candidate for this procedure, please call 813-771-6393 to schedule your one-on-one consultation with Dr. Traci Temmen, MD today.

How Long do Implants Last? 10-15 years, No Medical Device is Life Long

Thanks to the wonders of modern medicine, the techniques and technology used in plastic surgery have become incredibly advanced, enabling skilled surgeons to safely create beautiful results while minimizing scars and patient down time. One great example of this are the developments that have been made in breast augmentation with implants, allowing plastic surgeons today to create full, beautiful breasts without leaving a single scar on the breast itself through the use of tiny incisions located discreetly underneath the arm. With all of the advancements that has been made, it is easy to think that plastic surgery is a one-and-done easy solution that requires no follow-up. However, when it comes to procedures like breast implantation that place a synthetic material inside the body, regular “maintenance” is an important part of long term care. This blog post will briefly introduce the types of implants before answering the common questions of “how long do breast implants last?” and “when should I change my implants?”

Breast implants can be divided into two main groups, saline and silicone. Saline implants are composed of a thin outer shell that is then filled up with sterile saline solution once in position, similar to a water balloon. Silicone implants are solid throughout, and made of soft silicone that is designed to mimic the look and feel of natural breast tissue. Dr. Traci Temmen is experienced at breast augmentation with both types of implants, as well as multiple difference approaches to scar placement (under the arm, around the areola, or in the fold under the breast), and consistently produces beautiful results. The various options for implant type, size, and surgical approach should all be explained in one-on-one conversations between the patient and their plastic surgeon. Dr. Temmen recognizes that all of these choices can be overwhelming, and takes her time in making sure each patient understands their options and feels supported in choosing the best one for her.

Whether a patient ultimately chooses saline or silicone implants, both options will require some monitoring and maintenance over time. In fact, this is true for any medical device in the body, such as a pacemaker or knee replacement. In general, most implants should be expected to last between 10 and 15 years. Of course, this is an average with some women experiencing a problem with their implant before the 10-year mark and others being fortunate enough to not have any issues more than 20 years later.

Even with a perfect surgery, there is always a risk of long term complications such as implant leak/rupture, troublesome scar formation, capsular contracture, or implant malposition. These complications contribute to a reoperation rate of approximately 10-25% over a 10-year period. Ideally, any women with breast implants should go in for an annual check-up with their plastic surgeon for assessment over time. In the case of implant leak/rupture, generally a saline implant that leaks will be visible to the patient as the breast will decrease in size, prompting the patient to return to clinic. In contrast, a silicone implant leak may be “silent” or not noticed by the patient because the implant is composed of solid silicone throughout and so will still hold its shape. At first, the silicone from a leaking implant will remain contained within the capsule of scar tissue that the body forms around the implant. However, over time, this silicone may permeate the scar tissue and leak out into the surrounding breast tissue or even local lymph nodes. Thus, it is important to be able to detect leaks in silicone implants even if they are not noticable from an aesthetic standpoint. For this reason, it is generally recommended that women with silicone implants receive an MRI on the 3^rd anniversary of their implants and every 2-3 years afterwards to assess for this complication. Implants that have ruptured will need to be removed or replaced. A board-certified plastic surgeon such as Dr. Temmen is trained not in the surgical side of breast augmentation, but also in the proper management of any complication that occurs down the road, ensuring that any issue that arises is promptly and appropriately addressed. In cases where a patient needs or desires for her implants to be removed, Dr. Temmen offers several options including simple removal, implant replacement, implant removal with fat transfer to the breast, and implant removal with breast lift to ensure that there is an option for every patient that keeps them feeling confident and beautiful. These options can be read about in more detail under the Breast tab of this website as well as in previous blog posts.

Breast implants are a great option for many women looking to increase the size and enhance the shape of their breasts. While patients are understandably more excited to pick out and receive their implants than to follow-up with them over time, this maintenance is important so that complications that require action can be detected and resolved quickly. When Dr. Traci Temmen performs breast augmentation with implants for a patient, she is committed not just to the immediate result but also to monitoring that patient over time and addressing any issues that arise in the years to follow. This is another reason it is especially important to select a plastic surgeon who is experienced, thorough, and capable of managing the care of you and your implants over time.

To view real examples of patient transformations following breast implantation, please navigate to the Gallery section of this website. If you would like to learn more about breast augmentation with implants or any other plastic surgery you are interested in, simply call 813-771-6393 to book your one-on-one consultation with Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Traci Temmen, MD, today.

Breast Implants vs Fat Transfer

While many women have identified “problem areas” on their body that they wish they could change, the bust line is one area that many women are very sensitive about. Some women are naturally blessed with full and perky breasts, and that is wonderful for them. However, lots of women have bust lines that could benefit from a little boost! Padded and push-up bras can provide extra volume underneath clothing, but many women are looking to enhance their shape so that they feel sexy and confident no matter what they’re wearing (or wearing nothing at all!) For those interested in exploring plastic surgery as highly effective tool for breast enhancement, the different options can seem a little overwhelming. This blog post will unpack two of these options, breast implantation and fat transfer to the breasts, as well as go through a few of the situations that may make a patient a better candidate for one or the other.

Breast implants are what most people probably think of when they hear the words “breast enhancement”. There are many different types of implants, and they are usually separated into two groups: saline and silicone. Saline implants are composed of a thin silicone shell that is filled up with sterile saline solution after it has been inserted during surgery. Silicone breast implants, on the other hand, are solid all the way through and composed of soft silicone that more closely mimics the texture of real breast tissue. Silicone implants come in a variety of shapes to suit each individual patient’s anatomy and aesthetic goals, with some adding more volume to the upper part of the breast to create a “perkier” look, while others have more volume in the bottom of the implant in order to create a “teardrop” shape. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Traci Temmen understands that with all of the different implants available, it’s easy for patients to feel lost. Helping patients navigate this sea of options is a responsibility she takes very seriously, and she is committed to helping every patient find the perfect fit for them! Patients who may be better candidates for breast implantation than fat transfer to the breast are those who want to go up a cup size or more, as generally not enough fat can be transferred to the breasts to add multiple cup sizes of volume. In addition, women with a substantial degree of ptosis (or sagging) of the breasts will likely benefit more from implants than fat transfer due to the implants occupying more space and thus helping pull the overlying tissues tighter. Women with very significant sagging of the breasts may benefit the most from breast implants combined with a breast lift in order to remove excess sagging skin and surgically lift the breasts to a higher, more youthful position on the chest.

The second option we will discuss in this post for enhancing the appearance of the breasts is fat transfer. In this procedure, natural body fat is first harvested from the abdomen, back and sides using gentle liposuction. Dr. Traci Temmen is highly skilled at using the precise power of liposuction to sculpt the body into a slimmer shape while accentuating the patient’s natural curves. Once this portion of the procedure is complete, the fat that was harvested is injected into the breasts through tiny incisions that will be almost invisible once healed. Dr. Temmen is one of the few plastic surgeons in Tampa who is highly skilled and experienced in using this technique, as it requires meticulous precision to inject the fat into different areas of the breast to create the perfect shape. Many women find this option for breast enhancement appealing because it makes use of their own natural fat without inserting any foreign material into the body. Another benefit of this procedure is because it utilizes your own natural body fat, the finished result looks and feels very soft and natural. However, not every patient is a good candidate for fat transfer to the breasts. In particular, those who desire to add more than one cup size to their bust line will likely require breast implants. In addition, women who want to make their breasts look significantly perkier will likely not get much lift from this procedure alone, and may be better suited to breast implants or a breast lift. Patients who are good candidates for this procedure usually only want a modest increase in size (half to one full cup size), have breasts that are not sagging, and are drawn to this option for its use of natural fat instead of a synthetic implant.

Hopefully this post helped shed some light on the key differences between breast implants and fat transfer as options for enhancing the appearance of the breasts. At the end of the day, the best way to decide on the best option for you is through an in person, sit-down conversation with your plastic surgeon. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Traci Temmen takes the time to have detailed one-on-one conversations with her patients to ensure that all of their questions are answered, and they never feel rushed into making a decision. If you would like to view some examples of real patient results of these procedures, please explore the Before and After section of this website. To learn more about what option may be the best one for you, call 813-771-6393 to schedule your personal consultation with Traci Temmen, MD, today!