As the COVID-19 pandemic took hold of the nation earlier this year, plastic surgery facilities around the United States were some of the first medical practices forced to shut their doors. This was primarily because nearly all surgeries and procedures performed at plastic surgery facilities are elective.
State and federal governments forced these practice closures in order to funnel invaluable medical resources where they were most-needed — in hospitals and clinics. Furthermore, closing plastic surgery practices, as well as all other elective facilities, was meant to help stop the spread of the virus.
Fast-forward to today, and many plastic surgery practices are now reopening their doors — ours included. While the world is not yet out-of-the-woods when it comes to a cure or fail proof treatment for COVID-19, much has been learned about the virus and how to stop its spread. As such, many individuals may find themselves interested in plastic surgery procedures again.
So, what are patients interested in improving as our practices reopen? That’s what we’ll be discussing below. Here are the top 5 most popular plastic surgery procedures being performed on patients since lockdown began.
1. Liposuction
Despite working out hard and eating a strict, healthy diet, many people find that getting rid of those last few vanity pounds is an extreme challenge — if not impossible. The answer? Liposuction.
Liposuction or lipoplasty is one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures on the market today, and it’s become even more popular since lockdown. Perhaps it’s the fact that more of us are looking in the mirror more often throughout the day. Perhaps it’s those extra calories we’ve been eating to curb the stress of quarantine. Maybe it’s seeing ourselves constantly in that little Zoom call window. Regardless, liposuction is the answer for getting rid of those last few pounds that you’d love to be able to lose.
The procedure is fast and simple. Small incisions are made in the trouble areas where the patient would like fat removal, then a thin metal tube is inserted in order to disturb and suction out the excess fat. The incisions are then stitched up discreetly, and the patient is left with a flatter, more toned and slender silhouette.
Liposuction works great on the abdomen, buttocks, upper arms, thighs, and other areas.
2. Tummy Tucks
Tummy tucks are another common surgery, especially for individuals who have recently lost a lot of weight. They are also common for women who are finished having children and nursing. In both of these situations, the skin of the abdomen has become stretched but will not bounce back to its original size and shape. The result can be uncomfortable and embarrassing, especially if you want to go shirtless or wear a bathing suit.
A tummy tuck can get rid of excess abdominal skin and some excess fat. The skin is pulled down and repositioned, and your surgeon will contour the tummy to create a natural, smooth appearance. The excess skin and fat is cut off, and discreet stitches are put into place to reconstruct the abdomen and achieve a toned, attractive appearance.
3. Lip Implants
Of course, pouty, full lips have been a desirable feature for centuries. But with the recent success and popularity of celebrities such as the Kardashian sisters, Rihanna, and others, an increasing number of people have now become interested in plumping their lips permanently.
With lip implants, silicone implants are inserted into the lips to create a permanent fuller appearance with a natural shape. The process is quick, safe, and only requires local anesthesia. Many patients are interested in permanent lip implants as opposed to temporary lip fillers because no repeat treatments are necessary.
4. Breast Augmentation
Also known as mammoplasty, breast augmentation is a plastic surgery procedure that involves inserting silicone or saline implants into the chest for an overall larger, fuller appearance.
Many who are interested in breast augmentation have noticed that their breasts appear “deflated” or reduced in size. This may be something that’s naturally occurred because of time and gravity, or it may have happened after pregnancy and breast-feeding or weight loss. Finally, it may be something that the patient has desired since young adulthood.
Regardless, breast augmentation is the best and most permanent way to achieve fuller, perkier breasts that you can feel proud of. Your surgeon will assist you in coming up with the optimal size, shape, and positioning of your new implants.
5. Facelift
Lastly, facelifts are another hot procedure that many patients are currently after.
As we age, fat naturally moves downward because of gravity. This depletion leaves our cheeks looking less plump and youthful and may create jowls in the jaw and cheeks. Loose skin, wrinkles, and fine lines will also make an appearance. A facelift, also known as rhytidectomy, helps combat all of these issues.
During the procedure, your surgeon will make small incisions and literally lift and reposition the areas of your face and neck where premature signs of aging are visible. The result will be a smoother, more natural appearance that makes you look younger and fresher.
Ready to Book a Consultation Appointment?
If lockdown and quarantine have had you considering plastic surgery, now is the ideal time to book your consultation appointment. Our office has taken all necessary measures to ensure the safety and security of our patients and staff. Social distancing, mask wearing, and frequent sanitation and handwashing are just a few of the steps we’ve implemented.
While it was a challenge for us to close our doors temporarily — just as it was for many businesses, organizations, and individuals — we are happy to say that we have now reopened and are ready to help you achieve the body and face of your dreams. Whether it’s losing a few extra pounds with liposuction, flattening your abdomen with a tummy tuck, changing the silhouette of your chest, or making any other improvement, Dr. Sieber can help.
As a highly successful, board certified plastic surgeon in San Francisco and Bay area, Dr. Sieber is constantly on the cutting edge of his profession, always improving the techniques he uses and providing top-notch service and medical care to his patients. When you’re ready to book your initial consultation appointment at our San Francisco and Bay area office, give us a call and we’ll be happy to get you on the books!
