FAQs

Q: Will liposuction help me lose a lot of weight?
A: Liposuction is not an extreme weight loss option, as it is generally used to remove stubborn fat pockets that are resistant to dietary restrictions and exercise. As there is a limit to the amount of fat that can be removed during one procedure, liposuction is generally used to eliminate unsightly fat deposits in unwanted areas.

Q: What is the recovery time like after the liposuction procedure?
A: While recovery depends on the individual patient and the extent of the procedure, patients can typically expect three to five days of discomfort, and several weeks of swelling and bruising that will continue to dissipate over that period. Pain can generally be managed with medication, and Dr. Mills will schedule a number of follow-up office visits to monitor each patient’s recovery.

Q: How do I know what the right implant size is for me?
A: Through the consultation process with Dr. Mills, patients will be presented with a number of options to consider. Dr. Mills also asks his patients to bring in several different styles of clothing, including bathing suits, to ensure that his patients are able to address all areas of concern when choosing the implant size they are comfortable with, while advising them every step of the way.

Q: How can I avoid capsular contracture, or hardening of the breasts?
A: Capsular contracture is a side effect that can occur with breast augmentation surgeries. To reduce the risk of this complication, Dr. Mills highly recommends a strict adherence to the post-operative regimen, which includes various exercises to keep the breast pocket open and help the body heal and adjust to the implants.

Q: What is the difference between silicone and saline breast implants?
A: Both are equally safe and effective options for breast augmentation procedures. Saline implants are filled with a saline solution that is easily absorbed by the body if a rupture occurs. However, rippling is more likely to occur with saline, and most patients believe silicone feel and look more natural. The silicone breast implants were re-approved by the FDA, and have been safely used in breast augmentations worldwide for a number of years.

Q: Will I still be able to breastfeed after my breast surgery?
A: While the ability to breastfeed is dependent on each individual case, a number of Dr. Mills’ patients do not have a problem breastfeeding following their procedure.

Q: What can I expect from the tummy tuck recovery process?
A: We have seen some patients bounce back within a week and return to work, while other take longer to get back on their feet. Recovery depends on each patient and their overall health, as well as the extent of the procedure. Typically, Dr. Mills encourages his patients to walk around the house during the first week after surgery, and allows them to increase some daily activity once the sutures are removed, which takes place several weeks after the tummy tuck procedure.

Q: How long will my facelift results last?
A: As with any procedure, results will vary from patient to patient. While skin will continue to age, facelift results will act much the same way your skin did before you had the procedure. To get a better idea of the lasting results of a facelift procedure, a consultation with Dr. Mills will help you further define the goals and expectations for a facelift procedure.

Q: Will a facelift procedure result in noticeable scarring?
A: As a facelift procedure is an invasive surgery, there will be some scarring. However, the incisions are made in inconspicuous areas, and the appearance of the scars will dissipate throughout the recovery process.  Dr. Mills’ recovery plan will also aid in the overall healing process and can reduce the likelihood of permanent, noticeable scarring.

Q: What sort of non-invasive treatments does Dr. Mills offer?
A: Dr. Mills and the experienced and qualified staff at Aesthetic Plastic Surgery in Orange County, CA have a number of non-invasive treatments, including dermal fillers like JUVEDERM^®, as well as skin care products to help delay the signs of aging.