Blog

Planning Recovery from Abdominoplasty

Abdominoplasty

AbdominoplastyThe shape of a person’s body may change for a number of different reasons. Many women experience frustrating changes that stem from motherhood and the skin-stretching that occurs around the midsection. For both sexes, weight loss can lead to an undesirable appearance of loose, sagging abdominal tissue. In the office of Dr. Ryan Frank, we help patients address these concerns with abdominoplasty, also known as the tummy tuck.

According to expert opinion, one of the most vital aspects of a satisfactory outcome to plastic surgery is to have realistic expectations of your new appearance. We agree with this, and discuss expectations at length with our patients. In addition to knowing what to expect in terms of final outcome, we think that it is important to also identify ways to aid the recovery process.

Planning Translates into Greater Comfort

  • Your body knows, so listen. In the days following your procedure, the number one message your body is likely to send you is that it wants to rest. If you sleep a little extra, or a lot, it’s all part of healing so don’t deprive yourself of that.
  • Medication for pain relief is prescribed for a reason! Don’t wait until you become uncomfortable, take medication as a preventive. You’ll be glad you did. Make sure your medication is available when you return home from surgery; have it filled prior to your procedure date.
  • Comfort is of the utmost importance after surgery. Prepare a space with extra blankets, pillows, and entertainment that will ensure your ability to relax and rest as often as necessary.
  • Preparing healthy foods before your surgery can prevent you from feeling any need to cook during your recovery. Avoid carbonated beverages in order to prevent uncomfortable bloating. Drink plenty of water every day, and try to eat fresh foods, not processed meals.
  • Have support! Your recovery from abdominoplasty will go much more smoothly with a team of assistants who can make sure you take your medication, prepare and serve your meals, and care for kids and pets.

Plastic surgery is a big decision. Our team provides you with the information and support you need to complete your transformation process.

Planning Recovery from Abdominoplasty Read More »

Male Breast Reduction a Viable Solution for Gynecomastia

Male Breast Reduction

GynecomastiaTypically, breast procedures are associated with women wanting a more feminine physique. For a number of reasons, men facing the constant, intense shame of gynecomastia have historically avoided talking about their condition. Today, a very precise breast procedure can help men with “man boobs” reclaim their confidence and sense of self.

Enlarged Breasts? It’s Not Your Fault!

Breast enlargement in men is often thought a problem of excess fat. While there is an overabundance of tissue in the enlarged male breast, true gynecomastia is more complex than being overweight. Men with gynecomastia are encouraged to attain a healthy weight. However, the idea that diet and exercise can solve the issue of enlarged male breasts is just not accurate. Such an idea places the blame squarely onto a man’s shoulders. When attempts to exercise breasts away fail, a man can become deeply depressed and hopeless to find a solution.

Dr. Ryan Frank offers men in the Calgary area hope. In our office, patients have a friendly and discreet atmosphere in which they can discuss gynecomastia with an experienced physician.

What is Male Breast Reduction?

Male breast reduction surgery, or gynecomastia surgery, may consist of one procedure or two. When the primary issue is excess fatty tissue in the breast, optimal results may be achieved with liposuction. Sometimes, enlarged breasts are the result of excess fat and glandular tissue. Breast glands may be removed with surgical excision. The precision techniques with which male breast reduction is performed optimize the final outcome while also minimizing post-operative discomfort. Most men are able to resume some of their normal activities within a week or two after surgery. The procedure leaves only minimal scarring in most cases.

Is Male Breast Reduction Right for You?

Men that are at a healthy weight are good candidates for male breast reduction surgery. To see if this procedure is right for your needs, schedule a consultation with Dr. Frank. During your visit, you have the opportunity to discuss your concerns and desired outcome with a physician who understands the emotional impact that enlarged breasts has had on you.

Gynecomastia can be resolved, leading you into a more confident you. Call (403) 245-1228 to schedule your consultation.

Male Breast Reduction a Viable Solution for Gynecomastia Read More »

What are the Benefits of Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty

RhinoplastyToday, rhinoplasty (or “nose surgery”) is one of the most commonly-performed cosmetic procedures in the world. Rhinoplasty is usually performed to reshape, augment or reduce the size of one’s nose so that facial harmony is achieved. Additionally, it can help correct a broken nose or breathing problems.

Rhinoplasty, performed under general anesthesia, can be performed either for cosmetic or medical reasons. Either way, this procedure can provide a patient with many benefits – both aesthetic and medical. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most important benefits of this procedure.

Top Benefits of Rhinoplasty

  1. It corrects breathing issues. Breathing issues are often linked to problems within the nose. Such issues can also cause a person to experience sleeping issues, like sleep apnea. Sleep apnea causes a person’s airways to close up, which can result in a number of other health issues. For some patients who suffer from these issues, corrective rhinoplasty may be an effective option. In these cases, corrective rhinoplasty helps redesign the nasal passages to significantly reduce breathing issues.
  2. It helps you feel more confident. This is perhaps the most obvious reason for undergoing the rhinoplasty procedure. Many people with larger or misshapen noses often feel self-conscious about their appearance. For these patients, cosmetic rhinoplasty can correct the appearance of the nose by correcting asymmetry and improving the nasal profile by removing unwanted bumps within the nose.
  3. It offers patients a quick recovery time. Most patients will be able to return to their normal routine within weeks of undergoing this procedure. There are few complications associated with rhinoplasty, and when a patient does experience these complications, they are generally mild. Some possible side-effects may include temporary puffiness, headaches, or swelling.

Despite the benefits of rhinoplasty, it may not be right for everyone. Ideal candidates for this procedure are over the age of 16, generally healthy, and non-smokers. Patients must also have realistic expectations about what the surgery can do for them.

Rhinoplasty in Calgary

If you are interested in rhinoplasty, or would like to learn about any other procedures we offer, contact us today. We can be reached at (403) 245-1228. We look forward to hearing from you!

What are the Benefits of Rhinoplasty? Read More »

Can Older People Take Advantage of Cosmetic Surgery?

Plastic Surgery

plastic surgeonAccording to a study by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (Consumer Attitude Surgery 2010), 77% of people over the age of 65 years are open to undergoing plastic surgery. Cosmetic surgery is not just for young people. Older men and women can also benefit from cosmetic surgery. More and more people over the age of 55 are going under the knife to look younger or improve their looks.

A study by the Vanderbilt University Medical Center says that senior citizens are not more at risk from plastic surgery than younger people. The most common types of cosmetic surgery done by senior citizens are face lifts, eyelid surgery, liposuction, breast reductions. Forehead lifts, breast augmentation and breast lifts are also popular, though not as much as the former. Here’s more about each of these procedures.

Most Common Cosmetic Procedures for Senior Citizens

  • Face lifts: Rhytidectomy or facelifts are performed to give the face a more youthful look. During this process, excess skin is removed and the skin given a more taut look.
  • Eyelid surgery: Blepharoplasty or eyelid surgery is used to correct deformities, defects and disfiguration in the eyelid. With age, the eye lids can begin to droop and this can be corrected by cosmetic surgery.
  • Liposuction: Liposuction is done to remove excess fat from areas like the sides, upper abdomen, back, thighs, neck, buttocks and other areas.
  • Breast reduction: Breast reduction or reduction mammaplasty removes excess skin and tissues from the breast, reducing and reshaping the breasts in the process.
  • Forehead lift: Browplasty or forehead lift is performed to correct sagging eyebrows.
  • Breast augmentation: Breast augmentation or augmentation mammoplasty is performed to increase the size of the breast, either through breast implants or fat transplants.

All these procedures can help senior citizens improve their confidence and self image. But before you undergo any of these procedures, please speak to your doctor carefully about the associated risks.

Interested in Learning More About Cosmetic Surgery for Seniors? Contact Dr. Ryan Frank.

For more information about hair cosmetic surgery for older patients, contact Dr. Ryan C. Frank. We are located in Calgary, Alberta. We can be directly reached at (403) 245-1228. We look forward to hearing from you soon.

Can Older People Take Advantage of Cosmetic Surgery? Read More »

The Risks of Plastic Surgery Tourism

Plastic Surgery

Plastic surgeryOver the past several years, a trend has emerged in the world of plastic surgery. An increasing number of people are traveling overseas to undergo cosmetic and medical procedures, typically at a much lower price than it would be in Canada or America. While the prospect of cheap plastic surgery may be appealing to many, medical tourism is not without its risks. In fact, undergoing surgery in another country can be dangerous and even potentially fatal. Take a look at some of dangers of plastic surgery tourism and find out why you should think twice before scheduling your trip overseas.

The Risks of Plastic Surgery Tourism

  • Potential lack of safety standards. Countries like Canada and the United States have very strict safety guidelines set in place in regards to surgery, both cosmetic and medical. Many countries, like the Dominican Republic, Mexico and the Philippines don’t have these same safety standards, which can greatly raise the risk for complications.
  • Unable to have followup appointments. One of the most important aspects of a successful plastic surgery procedure is routine followup appointments with your surgeon, to help ensure that you are healing properly. If you travel for plastic surgery, it’s unlikely that you will be able to have these appointments and no one will be able to monitor you for any potential problems.
  • Traveling can raise the risk of complications. Following a plastic surgery procedure, your surgeon will most likely recommend that you rest and take it easy for a designated period of time. Many surgeons even ask that patients avoid flying in the weeks after surgery, as it can raise the risk for certain post-surgical complications. If you have to fly back home after a procedure performed abroad, you’re leaving yourself increasingly susceptible to problems.
  • No legal protection or recourse. In a typical surgical procedure performed at home, you will likely be protected by the law against surgical negligence. If such negligence occurs outside of this country, these laws may not apply and you can be left without any legal recourse.

For More Information about the Dangers Of Plastic Surgery Tourism, Contact Dr. Ryan Frank Today.

To learn more about plastic surgery tourism, contact us today. Our offices are located in Calgary, and we can be reached at (403) 245-1228. We look forward to hearing from you.

The Risks of Plastic Surgery Tourism Read More »

What You Should Know About Abdominoplasty

Abdominoplasty

Tummy TucksTummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a procedure to flatten your abdomen and waist. This is done by getting rid of excess skin and fat and tightening muscles through  surgery. The end result is a flatter, more appealing stomach.

What You Should Know

  • Qualities of a good candidate: You should have loose skin or fat pockets that have not been affected by exercise and diet. You should also be in a good physical condition. Older people who have lost elasticity of their skin can also undergo abdominoplasty. It is particularly helpful for women who have pregnancy related stretched muscles and skin. However, if you plan to have more children, then you should wait. It also helps if you lose weight before the procedure.
  • The procedure: Requiring around two and a half hours, the procedure is conducted with general anesthesia. There will be two incisions made: one around your navel, and another from one hipbone to the other, near your pubic area. The skin will be separated from the muscles. The latter are pulled together to give firmness and a shapely waist. Liposuction may also be required. The skin will then be pulled down on to the tightened muscles. The excess skin will be cut off and then the remaining will be sutured back together. Surgical dressings will then be placed.
  • Recovery, side effects, and complications: The time required to fully recover will range from two to three months. Sometimes, a tube may be inserted for a short period to drain out any excess fluid from the area of surgery. The results can last for a long time, provided you follow a proper diet and exercise regularly. Scars are inevitable but it is possible to make incisions in such a way that the resulting scars can be covered by a bikini. Of course, if you do not properly take care of yourself, you may require another surgery in due time. You may also need a surgery to deal with your scars, old and new.

Interested in Learning More about Tummy Tucks? Contact Dr. Frank.

If you are interested in abdominoplasty in Calgary, contact us today. We can be reached at (403) 245-1228. We look forward to hearing from you.

What You Should Know About Abdominoplasty Read More »

4 Things To Know About Tummy Tucks

Abdominoplasty

Tummy TuckAbdominoplasty–commonly known as a tummy tuck–is an extremely popular surgical procedure that rejuvenates and reshapes the contour of the stomach an waist. If you’re considering this procedure, read up on these facts to get better acquainted.

Facts About Abdominoplasty

  1. It is the most effective procedure for eliminating stubborn belly fat. A tummy tuck is the most effective solution when it comes to getting rid of excess pockets of fat and loose, sagging abdominal skin. This procedure creates a smoother, curvier contour and a more taut stomach.
  2. It tightens both muscles and skin. Mothers are one of the most common tummy tuck patients, and for good reason. A tummy tuck not only trims away excess fat and skin, but also tightens the muscles of the abdomen, which can become separated and bulge following the rigors of pregnancy and child birth. This effectively creates a firmer, more narrow waist for women looking to restore their bodies following pregnancy.
  3. It is not a major weight loss solution. While abdominoplasty is very effective at removing small pockets of fat from a targeted area, the procedure is not designed for patients who need to lose a significant amount of weight. In fact, A major change in weight following a tummy tuck can alter the results for the surgery. Therefore, patients who wish to lose weight are encouraged to do so before undergoing the procedure.
  4. Results are gradual. Since a tummy tuck is an invasive surgery, your body takes time to heal. A typical recovery period following abdominoplasty can take anywhere from two months to several months. Temporary drains may be required to eliminate fluid at the surgical site. Though a scar spanning hip-to-hip will be present, it is made so low that it can be covered by a bathing suit. With a balanced diet and regular exercise the results of a tummy tuck will last for a long time.

Interested In Learning More About Abdominoplasty? Contact Dr. Ryan Frank Today

If you are interested in tummy tuck surgery in Calgary, contact us today. We can be reached at (403) 245-1228. We look forward to hearing from you.

4 Things To Know About Tummy Tucks Read More »

Frequently Asked Questions about Breast Augmentation

Breast Augmentation

Breast AugmentationDespite being one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures, there are still a number of misconceptions and questions surrounding breast augmentation. While you probably know that this procedure can help provide patients with larger, fuller breasts, you may not know about the recovery period, how it is performed and more. Help familiarize yourself with the breast augmentation procedure by taking a look at some of the most common patient questions we receive.

Frequently Asked Questions about Breast Augmentation

  • What does this procedure involve? Your surgeon will begin by creating an incision in each breast, which is then lifted to create space for the implant. These incisions are typically made in inconspicuous locations, helping to minimize the risk of visible scarring following the procedure. The implants are then placed and centered underneath the nipples, and the incisions are closed.
  • Am I a suitable candidate? Ideal candidates for breast augmentation are in good general health and have realistic expectations about this procedure, but are unhappy with the size or shape of their breasts. However, a consultation with your plastic surgeon is the only true way to know if this procedure is right for you.
  • How long is the recovery period? Following breast augmentation, patients can expect to experience mild soreness and swelling that will typically subside after a few weeks. Your surgeon may also ask you to wear a support bra for a week or two after the surgery. To help make the most of your recovery, follow all postoperative instructions provided by your surgeon.
  • Are the results natural-looking? While some may associate breast augmentation with overly large or unnatural-looking breasts, this is often at the request of the patient. A skilled plastic surgeon will work with you to provide natural results that enhance your breasts and improve your overall contour.

Want To Learn More About Breast Augmentation? Contact Dr. Ryan Frank Today.

If you are interested in breast enhancement in Calgary, contact us today. We can be reached at (403) 245-1228. We look forward to hearing from you.

Frequently Asked Questions about Breast Augmentation Read More »

Which Breast Procedure Is Right For Me?

Breast Augmentation

breast procedureBreast procedures remain some of the most common surgeries performed by plastic surgeons. Whether a patient wishes to enlarge, enhance or contour their chest, there are many options available to them, each of which can be specified to align with their individual needs and goals. If you’re considering breast surgery, but are not sure where to begin, this guide is a great place to start. A qualified, experienced plastic surgeon will help you determine which procedure is the best option for you.

Types of Breast Surgery

  • Breast Augmentation: The most common breast procedure, breast augmentation, is a popular choice among women of all ages who wish to enhance the size and/or appearance of their breasts. Breast implants can address a number of aesthetic concerns– they not only make breasts bigger, but they can balance uneven or disproportionate breasts and provide volume and fullness. Breast augmentation candidates have a variety of choices available to them, allowing for a fully customizable procedure to ensure optimal results.
  • Breast Lift: A breast lift does not change the size of the breast, but rather lifts the tissues to restore firmness and volume to breasts that sag. This procedure is popular among patients who have experienced decreased breast volume often associated with pregnancy and nursing, or those who have lost a significant amount of weight. Breast lifts can be combined with additional procedures, such as augmentation, for more dramatic results.
  • Breast Reduction: Women who experience physical discomfort due to overly large breasts can benefit greatly from a breast reduction. This procedure removes excess fat, skin and glandular tissues from the breast to create a chest more in proportion to the rest of the patient’s body.
  • Male Breast Reduction: Women are not the only ones uncomfortable with large breasts. Research indicates that more than 40 percent of men suffer from gynecomastia, or enlarged male breasts. Male breast reduction removes fat and other tissues to create a firm, smooth contour.

Want To Learn More About Breast Surgery? Contact Dr. Ryan Frank Today

If you are interested in breast enhancement in Calgary, contact us today. We can be reached at (403) 245-1228. We look forward to hearing from you.

Which Breast Procedure Is Right For Me? Read More »

The Many Benefits of Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty

rhinoplastyEven though many people consider rhinoplasty to be a cosmetic procedure, plastic surgery of the nose can also help to treat medical conditions involving the nose and sinuses. It can make breathing easier, and even reduce the frequency and severity of snoring. Keep reading to explore some of the many different functions rhinoplasty can serve.

How Plastic Surgery Can Help Your Nose

  • Cosmetic improvements: Rhinoplasty can help to reshape the nose and create symmetry across the face. Both the nose size and width can be reduced, and the nose’s profile can be straightened out. The tip of the nose can be modified and the size and shape of the nostrils can be changed.
  • Deviated septum: A deviated septum occurs when the bone and cartilage between the nasal cavity is displaced or crooked. This can cause a difference in the size of the breathing passages and in severe cases, can reduce airflow or completely block one half of the nose. A plastic surgeon can reset the septum and restore proper airflow, making breathing easier.
  • Post injury: After a broken nose, sometimes the nose becomes misshapen. This can lead to further complications, such as snoring, sleep apnea, and difficulty breathing. During rhinoplasty, a plastic surgeon can straighten out the nose and repair damage that may be making it difficult to breathe.
  • Snoring: Depending on the underlying cause of snoring, a plastic surgeon may be able to help. Through plastic surgery, snoring and the sleep apnea that is associated it with it can be reduced and potentially even eliminated.

Are You Unhappy With the Way Your Nose Looks? Call Dr. Ryan Frank to Schedule an Appointment Today.

If you are interested in rhinoplasty in Calgary, contact us today. We can be reached at (403) 245-1228. We look forward to hearing from you.

The Many Benefits of Rhinoplasty Read More »

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT

* All indicated fields must be completed.
Please include non-medical questions and correspondence only.

Location Map: 333 24 Ave South West Calgary, AB T2S 3E6

Accessibility Toolbar

Scroll to Top