Procedures
SURGICAL OPTIONS:
FACELIFT AND NECKLIFT
Dr. Harvey is an expert surgeon in helping patients look refreshed and natural using surgical techniques for the face that he has perfected through years of experience. As a leading provider of cosmetic procedures, Dr. Harvey ensures that patients achieve optimal surgical results in a safe state-of-the-art facility located in the Nob Hill area of San Francisco.
FACELIFT & NECKLIFT Q&A
What is a Face Lift?
Facelift surgery will vary from patient to patient as each face has its own unique structure. A facelift is a surgical procedure used to counteract the visible signs of the aging process. This works by:
· Correcting the sagging in the middle of the face
· Repositioning the fat which has fallen in the face
· Improving jowls to create a more defined and youthful jawline
· Removing loose skin from the face
· Tightening the facial muscle tone
During the surgical operation, an incision is made at the temples and ends towards the bottom of the hairline. After any excess fat is removed the skin is then tightened across the face to give a smoother and more youthful appearance.
What is a Neck Lift?
A neck lift is a surgical procedure that works to tighten the muscles of the neck, removes excess fat, and excess skin which gives a more youthful appearance to the neck. Depending on the amount of skin which needs to be removed, the techniques will vary. The extent of muscle tightening needed will also be a factor affecting the neck lift technique used.
What can I expect as far as results?
Following surgery, as the inflammation subsides, the skin of the face or neck should look younger and refreshed. After a surgery, most patients have some swelling and bruising which will subside in about 3 to 4 weeks. Dr. Harvey will provide aftercare instructions for the face and neck as they heal. This can include a daily routine of sun protection, staying away from clothing which must be pulled over the head, and other recommendations designed to promote recovery. Dr. Harvey will be sure to work with you to create a treatment plan designed to help you achieve the best possible results.
When should I consider a Face Lift or Neck Lift?
When considering a facelift, it is very important to not only choose a surgeon with whom you feel confident, but to also choose one based on education, training and certification. Being a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), you can be assured that Dr. Harvey is highly qualified and experienced. ASAPS members must be board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and are members of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Be cautious as there are other similar sounding ‘Societies’ out there and it is not against the law for a physician who is board certified in another specialty to perform Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. In fact, it is possible for any given specialty to form a society of its own members which can cause great confusion for the patient.
A well-performed facelift is the pinnacle of a skilled Board Certified Plastic Surgeon. A facelift is also referred to as a rhytidectomy. Depending on the specifics of the procedure it may also be labeled a lower face lift with neck lift. Another term you may hear is a smas facelift wherein the platysma muscle is tightened during surgery. Each of these surgical procedures is designed to correct some or all of the following:
· Aged face
· Loose sagging skin of the face and neck
· Deepening folds in the cheek, jowl and neck areas.
The ideal result is one that is subtle and natural-looking. Less is more when performing an optimal face lift. You want to look like a better version of yourself.
For those who wish to address the signs of aging without going under the knife, or for those who would like to put surgery off, a liquid face lift is a viable option. From an aesthetic standpoint, the results can be quite impressive. Through the use of injectable dermal fillers (e.g. Restylane, Juvederm, Radiesse) and relaxers (e.g. Botox and Dysport), a re-contouring and smoothing of the face can be achieved. Excessive fat under the chin can now be addressed as well with an FDA approved injectable treatment called Kybella. In order to maintain the results that injectables provide, periodic touch-ups for some treatments may be necessary.
What is a Brow Lift?
Also known as forehead lift.
You may be a candidate for a brow lift if any of the following are present: (This procedure may also be done in conjunction with a facelift.)
• You have sagging eyebrows resulting an appearance you are not happy with
• You have deep horizontal creases across your forehead or deep furrows between your brows
EYELID SURGERY
For patients dealing with eyelid problems and cosmetic concerns, Dr. Harvey offers aesthetic surgery of the eyes and face. Patients in the San Francisco, California area and beyond are encouraged to see Dr. Harvey at his location in the Nob Hill area for eyelid surgery.
Eyelid Surgery Q&A
What is eyelid surgery?
Eyelid surgery is performed as an aesthetic, or cosmetic, procedure. Generally, aesthetic operations are done to alter the look of the person’s eyes, most often due to the signs of aging. They can also be used to improve conditions affecting the function of the eyes. For patients with vision concerns because of sagging eyelids, the operation can be especially beneficial. Eyelid surgery operations are not done to the eye itself, but rather, the skin near the eye. A blepharoplasty, also referred to as an eye lift, is the most common type of operation done.
Who is a good candidate for eyelid surgery?
People who are in good health are generally the best candidates for the eyelid surgery. Most of the time the operations are performed on people who are 35 years old and older. If you are suffering from droopy eyelids as part of a genetic condition, the operation can be done sooner to improve vision. Dr. Harvey will go over the operation techniques available with you to make sure you receive the best results.
You may be a candidate for eyelid surgery if you have any of the following:
· if you have excess, hanging skin covering the natural fold of the upper
eyelids
· If you have loose skin hanging down from the upper eyelids over the
eyelashes
· If your upper and lower eyelids appear puffy, making your eyes look tired and
aged
· If you have deep grooves under your eyes
Are the results permanent?
An operation performed on the upper lid can last for roughly 5 to 7 years where the lower eyelid operation will rarely need to be done a second time. Surgery will involve a recovery period and you should not be responsible for driving home. Though the operation will take care of any sagging or drooping of the eyelid, natural aging around the eye will resume. If drooping returns following the operation, a forehead lift can be helpful. Eyelid surgery can increase a patient's confidence regarding the appearance of the eyes, however, it will not alter the individual’s facial structure at its core.
NOSE SURGERY (Rhinoplasty)
Dr. Harvey can help patients in and around the San Francisco area improve their appearance and confidence by offering a wide array of cosmetic options when it comes to the nose.
Nose Surgery Q&A
What is a rhinoplasty?
A rhinoplasty, or nose surgery, is used to reshape the proportions and structure of the patient’s nose and can address issues which can hinder breathing. The issues a nose surgery can correct include:
· Large upturned nostrils
· Asymmetry of the nose
· Nostril position
· Visible humps or dimples in the nasal profile
· An enlarged, upturned, hooked, or drooping nasal tip
If the individual wishes for the nose to appear more symmetrical, it is important to note that the human face is not entirely symmetrical. For this imperfection, the operation will make the nose look properly proportioned and more balanced.
What results should be expected with nose surgery?
During a rhinoplasty, incisions are made inside the nose in order to access the bones and cartilage. Therefore, these incisions are not visible following the surgery. Depending on the desired result, some bone and cartilage may be removed, or tissue may be added to rearrange and reshape the nose. Although changes are evident immediately following surgery, it may take up to 12 months for results to be fully realized.
What will nose surgery recovery be like?
A splint or packing is placed in the nose to promote healing and hold the new shape of the nose. Your face may be bruised or swollen and feel puffy for several days. This swelling is typically more present in the morning. Cold compresses can help minimize the swelling and reduce pain. You may need to keep your head elevated for the first few days after surgery. The doctor will give patients aftercare instructions and prescription medication for pain relief. It takes about 10 to 14 days before most of the swelling and bruising improves.
When should I consider nose surgery?
You may wish to consider having nose surgery for any of the following reasons:
· You feel your nose is too large (or too small)
· You feel your nose does not suite your face
· You are experiencing breathing issues
LIPOSUCTION
Dr. Harvey helps patients who wish to improve their body contour by providing safe liposuction surgery at a state-of-the-art hospital facility.
Liposuction Q&A
What is liposuction?
Liposuction is a surgical operation commonly performed on both men and women that is used to slim, reshape, and contour the body by extracting excess fat deposits. The procedure can be combined with other operations such as a tummy tuck. Liposuction can be used for removing fat deposits in the:
· Abdomen, waist. and flanks
· Calves and ankles
· Cheeks, neck, and chin
· Hips and buttocks
· Inner knee
· Chest area
· Upper arms
· Thighs
· Back
What do I need to know before undergoing liposuction?
A consultation with Dr. Harvey should be the first step when considering liposuction. During the consultation, you'll discuss the options, risks, benefits, and costs associated with the procedure. At this time, you should also tell Dr. Harvey of any medications or supplements you might be taking and ask any questions that you have. It will also be important to remember that liposuction is designed for those who have not been able to achieve results with diet and exercise alone. These healthy habits will need to continue following the procedure to ensure the results last.
What results can I expect from liposuction?
Following surgery, Dr. Harvey will provide the patients with detailed instructions for home care. He may also prescribe medications to support healing. Once the initial inflammation and fluid retention from the surgery have gone down, results will be clear and are long-lasting. As time goes on and individuals age, some of the firmness can reduce. Generally, compression bandages or garments are used after the operation. Patients will be instructed on when they should return for a follow-up consultation as well as any information needed for prolonging the results.
When should I consider liposuction or other body adjustments?
You may wish to consider liposuction if:
• You experience localized deposits of fat which can occur in various areas of the body, including but not limited to – stomach, flanks, love handles, back fat, excess chest/breast fat in men (gynecomastia), outer bra underarm area ‘pooching’, thighs, buttocks, knees and ankles
• You have lost a considerable amount of weight but still have that stomach ‘pooch’
• You would like to see a more contoured body shape
• Your skin elasticity is good
UPPER ARM LIFT
Also known as brachioplasty.
You may wish to consider an upper arm lift if:
• You have excess hanging skin and/or fat in your upper arm region that cannot be tackled with liposuction alone. This issue is sometimes referred to as ‘bat wings’
• You have lost a considerable amount of weight resulting in sagging excess upper arm skin
MOMMY MAKEOVER* (refer to Mommy Makeover)
This is a term that includes multiple procedures on a post pregnancy body. This surgery may include a tummy tuck, liposuction and breast surgery (breast augmentation, breast lift, or breast reduction).
You may wish to consider a Mommy Makeover if:
• Your body has gone through changes post-pregnancy that you would like corrected
• You would like to regain some of your pre-pregnancy body contour
• You would like to look and feel better in clothing
TUMMY TUCK (Abdominoplasty)
A Tummy Tuck is suitable for men and women who may find the procedure useful for tightening their abdominal muscles and reducing skin resulting in a flatter, and more flattering stomach.
Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Q&A
What happens during a tummy tuck?
A tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, is a surgery designed to tighten the abdominal muscles by removing the excess skin and fat from the area. In most cases, weakened muscles are also restored which creates an abdominal profile that is smoother and firmer. A tummy tuck cannot correct stretch marks, although these may diminish if they are located on the areas of excess skin that will be excised.
What is a “mini-tuck”?
The term “mini tuck” refers to a short scar abdominoplasty. The scar is placed below the bikini line and is only slightly larger than a C-section scar. Suitable candidates have a “pouch” of skin and fat located in the lower abdomen. This pouch is frequently the result of pregnancy, and despite diet and exercise the patient cannot get rid of the skin and fatty tissue.
What is the procedure like?
The procedure begins with an incision made near the bikini line. Excess skin and fatty tissue is then removed. After the muscles are tightened, the skin is pulled tight and carefully re-draped. In order to preserve a natural appearance, the navel is temporarily removed for surgery and replaced upon completion.
What should be expected during recovery?
At the completion of the surgery, drains will likely be placed into the abdomen to prevent fluid collection. Typically, they will remain for about 7-10 days following surgery. To promote healing, a compression garment is usually worn for about two weeks after the procedure. Dr. Harvey will provide you with aftercare instructions on how to keep the incision and drains clean. He will also prescribe and provide instruction for any medication necessary such as pain medications or muscle relaxers. The abdomen will be sore for a few days, but most patients take 10 to 14 days to recover and to return to normal activities.
When should I consider a tummy tuck?
You may wish to consider a tummy tuck if:
· You have excess skin, folds, and/or fat in the abdominal area that has not
improved with weight loss
· You have lost a considerable amount of weight leaving behind excess
abdominal skin
· Post-pregnancy loose skin
· You have weakened abdominal muscles
· Stomach contour in clothing that you are not happy with
BREAST SURGERY
Breast surgery can be done for cosmetic reasons or to help improve a persistent issue. Dr. Harvey can provide breast surgery options to help you achieve an ideal appearance.
Breast Surgery Q&A
What kinds of breast surgery are available?
Breast surgery can be performed to increase fullness and improve symmetry of the breasts, or to restore breast volume lost after weight reduction, surgery for cancer, or pregnancy. This is generally referred to as breast augmentation. Breast surgery may also become necessary to treat an underlying condition such as breast cancer. Breast lifts and reductions can also be performed to improve the placement or lessen the mass respectively.
What can I expect during surgery?
For a breast augmentation, a saline or silicone filled implant is placed under the skin of the breast to produce the desired shape and size. The implant may be placed above the muscle or beneath it, depending on which is most appropriate.
What should be expected during recovery?
After any type of surgery, the breasts are wrapped in a gauze dressing and supported with an elastic bandage or support bra. A support bra will need to be worn 24 hours a day for the first week or two following the surgery. You will usually be able to go home after a few hours of recovery in post-op observation. Upon release, you will receive detailed instructions on proper home care. A follow-up appointment with Dr. Harvey will also be scheduled. There may be swelling for the first 24 to 48 hours, and the breasts may be tender for a couple of weeks.
When should I consider breast surgery?
BREAST AUGMENTATION
Also known as augmentation mammoplasty, breast enlargement, breast implants.
You may wish to consider a breast augmentation if:
· You feel your breasts are too small or smaller than you would like
· You have lost breast volume due to pregnancy or age
· You are not pleased with your breast shape
· You would like to feel better about yourself in clothes
· You have asymmetry that you would like corrected
BREAST LIFT
Also called a mastopexy. Implants are sometimes placed during the procedure as well.
You may wish to consider a breast lift if:
· Your breasts are sagging post-pregnancy or due to age
· Your breast tissue has lost elasticity post-pregnancy or due to age
· You want to look better in clothing
· A breast augmentation alone will not give the result that you would like
BREAST REDUCTION
Also known as a reduction mammoplasty.
You may wish to consider a breast reduction if:
· Your breasts are too large for your frame
· Your breasts are larger than you would like
· You don’t like the way you look in clothing due to large breasts
· You are self-conscious due to large size of your breasts
· You experience back pain and/or shoulder pain due to excessive breast size
· One breast is much larger than the other
· Your breasts have gotten larger and saggy with age
MOMMY MAKEOVER
Women who want to restore their body, quite often as is the case post pregnancy, can benefit from what is known as a Mommy Makeover.
Mommy Makeover Q&A
What is a Mommy Makeover?
A mommy makeover is actually a group of cosmetic operations which are used to restore a woman’s body to a pre-pregnancy, younger looking appearance. It typically includes a tummy tuck, liposuction, and breast augmentation. When you are having trouble getting back to a pre-pregnancy body, and exercise plus diet haven’t given you the results you desire, a mommy makeover can assist with the final changes to make you feel youthful and trim.
What is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck, or what is medically known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical operation which is used to reduce sagging skin on the stomach. After losing a great deal of weight from around the midsection following pregnancy, the skin on the abdomen can sag or become “flabby.” A tummy tuck takes away the extra skin which is left over and tightens the underlying abdominal muscles. This is different from liposuction, which sucks away fat, although both procedures can be performed during the Mommy Makeover. The tummy tuck compliments liposuction well because the excess skin is removed and the underlying structure of the stomach is toned.
What is Liposuction?
Liposuction is a surgical procedure which is utilized to slim, reshape, and contour the body by excising excess fat deposits. The procedure is often combined with additional operations when a mommy makeover is used. Once the initial inflammation and fluid retention which accompany surgery have dissipated, your results will be visible and long-lasting.
Liposuction is typically used for removing fat deposits in the:
· Waist and abdomen
· Calves and ankles
· Chest area
· Cheeks, neck, and chin
· Upper arms
· Inner knee
· Thighs
· Hips and buttocks
· Back
What is Breast Augmentation?
Following pregnancy, breasts often lose volume. A breast augmentation can help restore shape and volume. Sometimes, a mastopexy, or breast lift in addition to implant placement, is advised if there is ptosis or sagging of the breasts.
NON SURGICAL OPTIONS
BOTOX & FILLERS
Botox and fillers are some of the most widely used treatments in dealing with unwanted lines and wrinkles. Dr. Harvey is a highly trained physician with many years of experience in the use of these injectables aimed to help patients look and feel their best. Patients are encouraged to come in and discuss what is appropriate for his or her specific needs.
Botox® & Fillers Q&A
What is Botox® and Dysport®?
Both products are similar, nonsurgical treatments used to reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles on the face. The injections work by temporarily relaxing the facial muscles that cause wrinkles. The treatment is frequently used upon the frown lines, crow's-feet, and forehead creases. Profuse sweating can also be treated with these products.
What are facial fillers?
Facial filler is an umbrella term that refers to multiple products that are used to correct moderate to severe wrinkles by injecting small amounts under the surface of the skin. Fillers can also be used to augment or plump lips, volumize creases and folds in the face, and raise depressions in the skin left behind by scars. Dr. Harvey will help you to determine which facial fillers would be best for your treatment. Brands commonly used include Juvederm®, Restylane®, and Radiesse®.
What can I expect from the procedure?
These treatments can take anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes from start to finish depending upon the area of the face being treated. These treatments do not provide permanent solution and follow up injections may be desired. Both Botox® injections and fillers are relatively safe when administered by a trained professional. Discuss with Dr. Harvey each of the procedures to fully determine the best method of treatment for you. Patients under the age of 18 or those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or who have a neurological disease are not recommended for treatment. For more information, contact the office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Harvey.
When should I consider injectables?
BOTOX® and DYSPORT® (also known as botulinum toxin type A)
You may want Botox or Dysport if:
• You have deep lines between your eyebrows (the lines that make you look angry)
• You have asymmetry of your brows
FILLERS (dermal fillers)
Juvederm
Juvederm Voluma
Juvederm Vollure
Juvederm Volbella
Restylane
Restylane Lyft
Restylane Silk
Radiesse
Belotero
You might consider fillers if:You might consider fillers if:
• You want to have a more youthful contour in the face and jaw area.
• You would like a slight lift in the mid-face area without invasive surgery
• You want to fill those lines and creases (including smile lines) that form with age
• You wish to enhance your lips in an aesthetically pleasing way
KYBELLA (under chin fat reducer)
Kybella is the first of its kind FDA approved injectable treatment specific for the reduction of fat under the chin area that both men and women experience.
You may want Kybella if:
• You do not wish to undergo more invasive procedures for this fat removal
• You feel this under-the-chin fat makes you look heavier and older than you are
• You want a more defined jaw line
• You eat well and exercise and the fullness under your chin remains
For Men
Many procedures have the same impact on both men and women, however Dr. Harvey understands the difference in the desired outcomes. He takes into account the cosmetic goals of each patient and caters his treatment accordingly. Dr. Harvey highlights what is most important to men when they choose to enhance their aesthetic appearance.
GYNECOMASTIA (male breast reduction)
The goal of gynecomastia treatment is to reduce breast size in men who are embarrassed by overly large breasts. Reduction methods include liposuction, cutting out excess glandular tissue or using a combination of liposuction and excision. If you are treated by a board-certified plastic surgeon, gynecomastia can be effectively and safely improved or corrected completely.
When to Consider Gynecomastia Treatment
• If you are reluctant to remove your shirt in public, to swim, to participate in sports or to exercise at a gym
• If you want to improve your overall body proportions
• If you experience psychological discomfort associated with large breasts
• If you want to increase your social confidence
LIPOSUCTION (lipoplasty or body contouring)
Liposuction surgery sculpts your body, eliminating unwanted pockets of exercise and diet-resistant fat from the buttocks, hips, love handles, saddlebags, thighs, calves, ankles, breasts (including male breasts), back, arms and neck. Liposuction is often combined with other procedures to create a desired shape and is one of the safest and most popular cosmetic procedures.
When to Consider Liposuction
• If you have localized areas of fat deposits that are disproportionate with the rest of your body
• If you would like more definition or a sleeker contour in certain areas of your body
• If your skin elasticity is good (Liposuction removes fat, but does not tighten skin)
