In order to achieve more youthful looking and perkier breasts, many women explore various options, including breast augmentation. However, there’s another transformative procedure that often goes overlooked: the breast lift. While breast augmentation involves implants to enhance volume, a breast lift focuses on reshaping and lifting the existing breast tissue. In this blog, we’ll delve into 5 reasons why a breast lift could be the ideal solution for restoring confidence and femininity without the need for implants.

  1. Restores Youthful Shape and Tone: Unlike breast augmentation, which primarily focuses on increasing volume, a breast lift is designed to address sagging and loss of firmness. Through the removal of excess skin and tissue, the breasts are lifted to a higher position on the chest, restoring a more youthful contour and visual appeal.
  2. Natural-Looking Results: One of the key benefits of a breast lift is the ability to achieve natural-looking results. By reshaping the existing breast tissue, the outcome is often more subtle and proportional to your body.
  3. Improved Breast Symmetry: Over time, factors such as pregnancy, weight fluctuations, and aging can lead to asymmetry in the breasts. A breast lift can address these concerns by reshaping each breast individually, resulting in improved symmetry and balance.
  4. Enhanced Self-Confidence: The physical changes brought about by a breast lift can have a profound impact on self-confidence and body image. By restoring a more youthful and lifted appearance to the breasts, many women experience a renewed sense of confidence and femininity.
  5. Long-Lasting Results: While the results of a breast lift are not immune to the effects of aging and gravity, they are typically long-lasting. With proper care and maintenance, including a healthy lifestyle and regular breast exams, the benefits of a breast lift can be enjoyed for many years to come.

For women seeking to restore a more youthful appearance to their breasts, a breast lift offers a compelling alternative to traditional breast augmentation. By focusing on reshaping and lifting the existing breast tissue rather than introducing implants, a breast lift can deliver natural-looking results, improved symmetry, and enhanced self-confidence.

Contact Annapolis Plastic Surgery today at (410) 266-7215 and take the first step towards your breast lift transformation!

 

Before undergoing any plastic surgery procedure, it’s essential to be well-prepared both physically and mentally. So, our team has gone ahead and addressed some FAQs to help you get ready for your surgery:

Can I continue taking my regular medications before surgery?

Certain medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, blood thinners, Vitamin E, and herbal supplements should be discontinued 1-2 weeks before the procedure to minimize the risk of prolonged bleeding. However, if you need pain relief before or after surgery, Tylenol is safe to use.

Can I eat or drink anything the night before my surgery?

This depends on the surgery but we advise patients to avoid eating or drinking 8 hours before the scheduled surgery. An empty stomach is essential to reduce the risk of complications during anesthesia.

What should I wear on the day of my surgery?

We suggest wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Avoid wearing any jewelry or nail polish to the office, as they can interfere with monitoring devices and present unnecessary risks.

Can I drive myself to the surgery center on the day of the procedure?

We advise you to arrange for someone to drive you to the surgical facility and back home. The effects of anesthesia can impair your ability to drive safely.

How long before my surgery should I stop using makeup and skincare products?

Depending on your surgery, there may be specific instructions regarding skincare products and makeup. Generally, it’s best to avoid using any products on the surgical area the night before and the day of surgery. This includes lotions, perfumes, or deodorant.

Can I shower before the procedure?

You can shower the night before or the morning of your surgery. We recommend using shampoo and antibacterial soap.

How should I prepare my home for post-op recovery?

We recommend creating a comfortable recovery environment by having essential items within reach. These may include extra pillows, medications, dressings, and any recommended post-op care supplies.

Can I smoke or drink alcohol before the procedure?

We strongly advise you to stop smoking several weeks before your surgery. Smoking can increase the risk of complications and hinder the healing process. Additionally, it’s essential to avoid alcohol in the days leading up to the surgery, as it can interfere with anesthesia and pose risks during surgery.

If you have any further questions, please contact our office at (410) 266-7215. We’re excited to be a part of your transformation journey and look forward to assisting you every step of the way!

In recent years, CoolSculpting has gained significant popularity as a non-invasive fat reduction procedure. However, with its rise in popularity, several myths and misconceptions have also emerged. In this blog post, we will debunk these CoolSculpting myths and provide you with accurate information, separating fact from fiction.

Myth 1: CoolSculpting is a Weight Loss Treatment

One of the most common misconceptions about CoolSculpting is that it is a weight loss procedure. In reality, CoolSculpting is not intended for overall weight loss. It is a body contouring treatment designed to reduce stubborn pockets of fat in specific areas. CoolSculpting is most effective for individuals who are already at or near their ideal weight but have localized areas of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise.

Myth 2: CoolSculpting is Painful

CoolSculpting is a non-invasive procedure that does not require surgical incisions. While some patients may experience mild discomfort during the treatment, it is generally well-tolerated and described as a cold or pulling sensation. After the treatment, you may experience mild and temporary side effects in the treatment area like bruising and swelling. But soon after, you’ll start to notice a gradual reduction in targeted fat cells as your body naturally eliminates them. Many patients report seeing results begin as early as 4 weeks post-treatment.

Myth 3: CoolSculpting Causes Sagging Skin

CoolSculpting is a controlled cooling technology that selectively targets fat cells without affecting surrounding tissues. It does not cause skin laxity or sagging. CoolSculpting works by improving the contour of the treated areas by reducing the volume of subcutaneous fat. It is important to note that CoolSculpting is not a skin-tightening procedure, and individuals with significant skin laxity may require alternative treatments.

Myth 4: CoolSculpting Results Are Permanent

CoolSculpting permanently eliminates up to 20% of fat cells in the treated area. Although CoolSculpting does not prevent you from gaining weight, you will gain less weight in the treated areas since you have less fat cells remaining. To maintain the results of CoolSculpting, it is important to follow a healthy lifestyle, including having a balanced diet and exercising regularly.

CoolSculpting is a safe and effective non-surgical option for reducing localized areas of fat. By debunking these common myths, we hope to provide a clearer understanding of what CoolSculpting can and cannot achieve.

If you are considering CoolSculpting, give our office a call today!

Summertime is here, and while we all love soaking up the sun, it’s crucial to protect our skin daily from harmful UV rays. These harmful rays can cause premature wrinkles, but more importantly, they can also lead to skin cancer.

At Annapolis Plastic Surgery, we prioritize your skin health and offer an array of exceptional sunscreens that combine effective UV protection with healthy glowing skin. We believe that sunscreen is not just a skincare product, but an essential part of your overall skincare routine.

Understanding UV Rays:

To keep your skin safe, it’s important to know about the two types of ultraviolet (UV) rays: UVA and UVB.

UVA rays have a longer wavelength and penetrate deep into your skin, which can lead to wrinkles, early aging, and even skin cancer.

On the other hand, UVB rays have a shorter wavelength and mostly affect the outer layer of your skin, causing sunburn. Both UVA and UVB rays can harm your skin’s health in the long run, which is why it’s crucial to protect yourself from the sun every day.

In this blog, we address the three major do’s and don’ts of sunscreen and emphasize the importance of sun protection daily.

Do: Choose Broad-Spectrum Sunscreens

When selecting a sunscreen, look for ones labeled “broad-spectrum,” as they offer protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Our carefully curated collection of sunscreens like Sun Better by Skin Better Science or EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 are both broad-spectrum and offer heightened protection against the sun while nourishing and enhancing your skin’s natural radiance.

Don’t: Neglect Sun Protection on Cloudy Days

Even on cloudy days, harmful UV rays can penetrate through the atmosphere and reach your skin. Don’t make the mistake of thinking you are safe from sunburn and skin damage when it’s overcast. Always apply sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and practice sun safety regardless of the weather conditions.

Do: Apply Sunscreen Regularly and Generously

A common mistake many people make is not using enough sunscreen. The average person should be applying a nickel-sized amount of sunscreen to their face and neck and a minimum of one shot glass worth of sunscreen to their body, focusing on any areas that will be exposed to the sun. Additionally, reapplying sunscreen every two hours, especially after swimming, sweating, or towel-drying is crucial in preventing sunburn, and protecting your skin.

Don’t: Forget to Protect Your Lips & Eyes

Our lips and eyes are often overlooked when it comes to sun protection. To avoid sunburn and dryness, incorporate an SPF lip balm into your routine, apply sunscreen around your eyes, and wear UV-blocking sunglasses.

Do: Check Expiration Dates

Sunscreen, like any other product, has a shelf life. Check the expiration date before using it. Expired sunscreen loses its effectiveness, so make sure to discard and replace any old products.

Don’t: Rely Solely on Sunscreen

Sunscreen is your first line of defense against UV rays, but it shouldn’t be your only line of defense. Using protective measures like wearing UV-blocking clothing, wide-brim hats, sunglasses, sitting under an umbrella, and staying out of direct sunlight during peak sun hours can ensure safer sun exposure.

When combining these additional measures with sunscreen, you create a comprehensive sun protection routine that significantly reduces the risk of sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer.

By following these vital do’s and don’ts of sun protection, you can maintain healthy and radiant skin throughout the summer.

Are you struggling with hair loss and looking for a solution that provides natural-looking results? Look no further! Annapolis Plastic Surgery now offers NeoGraft, an innovative hair restoration technique that is gaining popularity due to its incredible benefits and minimal recovery time.

What is NeoGraft?

NeoGraft is a cutting-edge hair transplantation method that utilizes an automated system to harvest hair follicles from one part of the body (typically from the back of the scalp) and transplants them to the areas experiencing hair loss. Unlike traditional hair restoration methods that require a strip of skin to be removed from the scalp, NeoGraft uses a follicular unit extraction (FUE) technique, which avoids any large scarring and provides a more natural fuller looking outcome.

Benefits of NeoGraft:

  • Natural-looking results: NeoGraft creates a natural appearance by transplanting individual hair follicles, mimicking the hair’s natural growth pattern. This results in a hairline that blends seamlessly with the existing hair, making it virtually undetectable.
  • Minimally invasive: NeoGraft is a minimally invasive procedure that does not require any incisions or sutures, making it a more comfortable experience compared to traditional hair restoration methods.
  • Versatile: NeoGraft can be used to treat various types of hair loss, including male and female pattern baldness, receding hairline, thinning hair, and eyebrow restoration. It is also suitable for patients with a tight scalp, making it a viable option for a wide range of individuals.
  • Long-lasting results: NeoGraft provides permanent results as the transplanted hair follicles are resistant to the effects of hair loss. The transplanted hairs will continue to grow naturally, providing a lasting solution to hair loss.

Recovery Time

The recovery time for NeoGraft is relatively quick and convenient compared to traditional hair restoration methods. Most patients can expect to return to their regular activities within a few days after the procedure. There may be some mild swelling and redness in the treated areas, which typically subsides within a few days. Additionally, patients are advised to avoid any strenuous physical activity for a few weeks after the procedure to promote optimal healing.

Have you ever wished there was a way to speed up your skincare routine and achieve radiant, youthful-looking skin? Look no further than MOXI, the innovative laser treatment available at Annapolis Plastic Surgery.

At Annapolis Plastic Surgery we aim to offer treatments for our patients who don’t have time in their busy schedules for recovery and that’s why we nicknamed it the “Lunch Break Laser” and one of our most popular treatments. Because this treatment is so quick and painless we often get questions about how it’s possible to have fully rejuvenated skin in such a short time.

In this blog, we’ll be taking a closer look at MOXI, its amazing benefits, what the treatment is like, and the results.

What is MOXI?

MOXI is a non-invasive laser treatment that’s designed to target uneven pigmentation, texture, and sun damage and even extends the results of other spa laser and light treatments. MOXI is suitable to be used all over the body and even in those more sensitive areas of the body.

The laser targets water located in your body’s white blood cells, which causes the body to start repairing the skin in a more natural and non-invasive way. This extra-gentle treatment is suitable for all skin types and can be used to treat darker skin tones.

What are the benefits of MOXI?

MOXI offers tons of benefits for those looking to rejuvenate the appearance of their skin.

  • Non-Invasive: This treatment doesn’t require any incisions or needles which means there is no downtime, and you can return to your normal activities immediately after the treatment.
  • Safe: This is a safe option that is gentle enough for most skin types. It’s also FDA-approved, which means it has been tested for safety and effectiveness.
  • Improved Skin Texture: MOXI helps to improve skin texture by reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, or enlarged pores.
  • Increased Collagen Production: The lasers stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, which is essential for maintaining healthy and youthful-looking skin.
  • Minimal Discomfort: MOXI is a comfortable treatment that requires minimal downtime. Most patients experience little to no discomfort during the short procedure.

What to expect after treatment

Your MOXI treatment will typically take 30 to 45 minutes depending on the size of the treatment area and because of the high-tech laser utilized by our staff, you will be able to walk out of your appointment and get right back to life with little to no downtime.

In just a few short weeks after your treatment, you’ll notice an improvement in your skin texture, tone, and overall radiance of your skin. The treatment will also help to extend the results of other treatments and improve the quality of other daily skin care products in use.

At Annapolis Plastic Surgery, we understand that each patient’s skin concerns are unique. That’s why we offer a variety of laser treatments, including MOXI, to help you achieve your ideal skin. Our experienced staff will work with you to create a customized treatment plan to address your specific needs and goals.

One of the most common cosmetic procedures you may have not heard of is earlobe repair/reduction.

Ear piercing hole(s) can widen, migrate or even split through the bottom of the earlobe making it difficult or impossible to wear earrings. Some earlobes can simply be large or elongated by age. Fortunately, all of these earlobe concerns can easily be fixed to allow you to confidently wear earrings again or be more comfortable with the size and shape or your lobes.

Who are the ideal candidates?

Anyone with malpositioned piercing holes, split lobes, gauge stretched lobes or anyone who is unhappy with elongated or saggy earlobes.

How is the procedure performed?

Earlobe repair and reduction are performed in our office under local anesthesia. The procedure typically takes less than an hour with very small sutures placed in the skin.

What should I expect after the surgery is done?

Recovery is simple with minimal downtime and discomfort. Pain medications are almost never needed. Normal activity can be resumed in a few days and sutures are typically removed within 1 week. Scarring is also minimal. Most patients return at 2-3 months to have the new earlobes re-pierced in their desired position.

At Annapolis Plastic Surgery our goal is for you to feel comfortable with each step of the process from the initial consultation through the procedure recovery. We take pride in you feeling confident with your appearance.

Please call us today to set up a consultation with one of our board-certified, highly experienced surgeons.

Are you a man struggling to get rid of stubborn fat despite exercise and having a healthy diet?

You’re not alone. Liposuction, or Lipo, is one of the most common cosmetic procedures for men and could be the solution you’re looking for. At Annapolis Plastic Surgery, we understand the unique needs of our male patients and provide personalized care with exceptional results. While Lipo is commonly associated with women, men can also take advantage of this procedure. In fact, lipo is one of the most common cosmetic procedures for men and hundreds of procedures like this are performed in our office every year. Lipo is a fairly common and safe procedure for men who want to improve their confidence and physique.

Lipo can be an excellent solution for men who have tried exercise and dieting to get rid of stubborn fat pockets without success. The suitable candidate for lipo typically has good skin elasticity, and therefore age is another factor to consider. While you may experience some weakness, drowsiness, and discomfort immediately after the procedure it is generally not overly painful. It is essential to discuss any concerns or questions you may have with Dr. Chappell, a forerunner of male lipo and a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 2 decades of experience, who can help determine if lipo is the right option for you.

After learning about lipo, it is common to wonder if there is a difference between liposuction in males and females. Is it safe for me? How effective is liposuction? We have answered these along with other commonly asked post-liposuction questions below!

Safety  

Dr. Chappell utilizes an advanced lipo technique, Power-Assisted Liposuction (PAL), to achieve optimal results for his male patients. PAL is a precise method of removing unwanted fat, which enables Dr. Chappell to sculpt and contour the body with greater ease and less stress on the body. As with any procedure for which a patient has to be “put under”, it can cause anxiety, but it is safe to say that male lipo is a very safe and routine procedure with a low complication rate according to studies by the Cleveland Clinic.

Differences between Male and Female Liposuction 

Male lipo, just like female lipo, can be used to remove fat from virtually any area of the body, but the most common areas for men are the chest, abdomen, back, hips, and thighs. Compared to female lipo, male lipo often involves the removal of larger and more dense fat deposits. While the recovery time and potential side effects are similar for both men and women, male lipo may require more advanced techniques to achieve optimal results.

Is Liposuction Effective and Permanent? 

Effective? Yes Permanent? Also, yes, but only in the areas of treatment will it effectively and significantly reduce the amount of fat. Lipo is a very useful tool to supplement a healthy lifestyle as lipo enhances one’s appearance by removing excess fat in the areas that will not go away despite diet and exercise.

Another key way to make sure lipo is effective is to adhere to all of the aftercare instructions. Resting and wearing your compression bandages for the appropriate amount of time is key to a successful and swift recovery.

At Annapolis Plastic Surgery, we understand the unique needs of our male patients and we are committed to providing personalized care with exceptional results. Dr. Chappell has over 20 years of experience performing lipo for men and uses the latest techniques and technologies to ensure the best possible outcome. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward achieving the body you’ve always wanted.

If lipo sparks your interest, feel free to check out our gallery for before and after photos and give us a call at (410) 226- 7215 to schedule a consultation.

Liposuction is a plastic surgery procedure that uses a suction technique to remove fat from the body. This procedure is offered at Annapolis Plastic Surgery by Dr. Chappell, a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 2 decades of experience. This procedure can give reduced contours on one’s stomach, waist, abdomen, hips, thighs, along with other places.  

The ideal candidate for liposuction is someone who has tried dieting and exercise for fat loss but has not been successful due to pockets of fat not responding correctly. Age can be a factor when considering if one is a good candidate for liposuction. A more important factor would be the elasticity of their skin. In terms of pain, the procedure is known to not be overly painful though you may feel pain, weakness, and drowsiness immediately after. 

After learning about liposuction, it is common to wonder what happens after the procedure is performed. How long does it take to heal? How is scarring? What are some side effects? We have answered these along with other commonly asked post-liposuction questions below! 

Common Side Effects 

When considering liposuction you need to remember to have realistic goals for the procedure. Even before receiving the procedure, Dr. Chappell will brief you on recovery. Most commonly, people will experience bruising, swelling, and soreness. All three of these side effects are totally normal. However, it is important to pay close attention to your pain and post-procedure side effects. You will be in a compression garment that will aid in preventing excess swelling. You also will be prescribed pain medication to control pain. In addition, some patients experience numbness. Though alarming, this is a normal side effect of liposuction. 

Scarring 

Scarring is another concern for many. But Dr. Chappell will share advice and tips to minimize the likelihood of prominent scaring. Winter is the perfect time to look into procedures like liposuction since you won’t have to worry about being in the sun much as the sun worsens scars. In general, most people will have very small and faint scars after surgery. This is because the incisions are tiny. Usually, scars will fade in six months to a year though this does depend on the patient. 

Resuming Normal Life + Maintaining 

With liposuction being a permanent procedure, you will need some downtime. 2 weeks post-procedure is probably when you will begin feeling like yourself again, though this varies. In terms of physical activity, you may need to wait a little longer to participate in the exercise. You do not want to rush the recovery process as it could affect your results. Once Dr. Chappell gives you the go-ahead, you will be able to get back into physical activity. It is important to note that liposuction does not prevent you from gaining weight so you still want to ensure you are always working to maintain or reach your goals. 

Mindset 

It is important to have realistic expectations before and after getting liposuction. The exact amount of fat that Dr. Chappell can remove depends on multiple factors. This complicated procedure makes it hard to perfectly predict results. As discussed above, maintaining a post-liposuction body requires commitment and dedication. In addition, you must stay patient and optimistic while healing. 

A common misconception is that liposuction is an easy way out. This is most definitely not the case. Even if you are exercising multiple times a week and eating healthy, there could be areas of your body that are exercise-resistant which makes liposuction a perfect method for contouring and tightening up one’s body.

Here at Annapolis Plastic Surgery, our top priority is our patients. We evaluate our patient’s health to ensure they are a good candidate for liposuction. We also make sure our patient correctly understands the goals of liposuction and the benefits it brings. We never want to exaggerate the benefits of this procedure. We offer transparency and clarity. 

If liposuction sparks your interest, feel free to check out our gallery for before and after photos and give us a call at (410) 226- 7215  to schedule a consultation.

Are you struggling to get a flat abdomen, no matter how much you exercise or stick to a healthy diet? Here’s how a tummy tuck could be a solution and how to know if this is the right plastic surgery procedure for you.

 

For many people who have experienced significant weight loss or being pregnant, dealing with extra skin that doesn’t want to go away can cause unwanted discomfort and stress, especially when it affects daily activities like what clothing to wear and how to exercise. Fortunately for them, an abdominoplasty (or tummy tuck) is the solution to getting the slimmer figure they want.

An abdominoplasty, commonly known as a “tummy tuck,” is one of the most popular surgical procedures. This cosmetic treatment removes excess fat and skin in the abdomen region while also restoring weakened muscles that have been affected by factors such as pregnancy or weight loss to sculpt a smoother, firmer abdomen.

The ideal candidate for a tummy tuck is someone who:
• Has excessive or sagging skin in the abdominal region and is bothered by it
• Is at or near ideal weight
• Has no future pregnancies planned
• Has weakened muscles in the abdominal region (not required)
• Is a nonsmoker
• Has realistic expectations

During your consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. James Chappell, he will work with you to determine which kind of tummy tuck procedure is best for you based on your goals and figure.

He will go through the procedure with you step-by-step beforehand, from how to prepare for the surgery, what will happen during it, and the necessary steps to recover properly. Since this surgical procedure requires a more extended healing period than others, you will need to abstain from strenuous physical activities and take time off work as needed.

The recovery period usually lasts six weeks. You will have a scar from the incision that will heal and eventually fade over time.

After having a tummy tuck, you will see a noticeable difference in your appearance and self-esteem. With a healthy diet and regular exercise, you will experience lasting results of a more well-defined midsection.

If you believe you are a good candidate for a tummy tuck, call the office of Annapolis Plastic Surgery to schedule a consultation with Dr. James Chappell.