Eyelid Surgery ( Blepharoplasty), Mini Facelift, and More in Sacramento near Roseville and El Dorado Hills

For eyelid surgery ( blepharoplasty), facelift, mini facelift, and other facial cosmetic surgery, look to our Sacramento practice. We provide patients from Roseville, El Dorado Hills, and other surrounding areas with procedures that reverse the visible effects of aging or create newfound balance and refinement. Read more about our offerings below, or contact Chrysalis Cosmetics today to get started.

• Traditional and Mini Facelift
• Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty )
• Browlift (Forehead Lift)
• Neck Lift
• Rhinoplasty (Nose Surgery)
• Chin and Cheek Implants
• Surgical Lip Augmentation (Lip Lift)
• Otoplasty (Ear Surgery)

Traditional and Mini Facelift

Despite a youthful outlook on life, your face can show the effects of gravity, stress, aging, and sun exposure. Over time, the jawline goes slack, forming jowls; deep creases form between the nose and mouth; and skin on the neck becomes creased and fleshy. Today's techniques, however, make it easier than ever to regain your youthful look. To accomplish rejuvenation of the mid to lower portion of the face, consider facelift surgery or a less invasive technique known as the mini facelift performed at our Sacramento practice, near Roseville. Facelift surgery is the perfect way to turn back the clock and help you look and feel great.

Facelift surgery, whether performed using the full or mini facelift technique, is often combined with eyelid surgery, forehead lift, or injectable products such as BOTOX® Cosmetic. These treatments address other common signs of aging that facelift alone cannot combat, allowing for comprehensive facial rejuvenation.

A mini facelift is ideal for those just beginning to show the signs of aging. It can refine the results of a full facelift, or be performed on its own. This technique utilizes tiny incisions and is sometimes referred to as “the weekend” facelift because recovery is so quick. The mini facelift is especially useful for those with moderate laxity in the skin of the lower face, and those wishing for increased jawline definition.

  

  

Candidates for Facelift and Mini Facelift

The ideal candidate for facelift surgery is healthy, mentally stable, and has skin laxity in the neck and mid to lower face. If your skin laxity is mild to moderate, you may be an ideal candidate for a mini facelift. For either procedure, it is best to be at a stable weight, have good skin elasticity, and a strong bone structure.

Facelift or mini facelift is not recommended for:

Individuals with medical conditions

Patients that have diabetes, uncontrolled high blood pressure, poor circulation, blood clotting problems, or other health concerns may not be good candidates for surgery. Patients will thoroughly discuss their medical history with Dr. Perry before undergoing surgery.

Individuals with unrealistic expectations

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Things to Consider Before Undergoing Facelift or Mini Facelift Surgery

Financial responsibilities

Fees for facelift surgery are not covered by health insurance and include surgical and facility fees, anesthesia fees, and more. If complications arise, you may incur additional fees.

Longevity of facelift results

Facelift surgery results do not last forever. The results of a traditional facelift generally last seven to 10 years and the results of mini facelift, five to seven years.

Pre-operative facial condition

Skin elasticity, skin type, bone structure, ethnic background, and other factors all affect the results of facelift surgery. It is impossible to predict the exact results of facelift surgery, and it is possible that the results will be disappointing or different than you expected.

Post-operative healing and scarring

If you have very short hair, you might want to let it grow out before the surgery to aid in concealing incisions.

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How is facelift surgery performed?

The techniques used in facelift surgery have advanced significantly since the days of tightly stretched facial skin and visible scars. Today, surgeons take great care to securely tighten the face’s underlying tissue and muscles along with the superficial layers of the face.

In the standard or traditional facelift technique, Dr. Perry works through an incision that is hidden in the hairline at the temple and extends to the front of the ear, around the earlobe, and back into the hairline. He will tighten sagging facial and neck muscles, and smooth the skin to a more youthful position, excising any excess. The skin is carefully sutured, and the surgeon may place a drain behind the ear to release fluid. If a neck lift is performed in conjunction with the facelift, the incision will be placed under the chin.

The mini facelift is also called the S-lift facelift, after the shape of the incisions, which follow the ear’s natural curve and extend upward into the hairline. This incision allows Dr. Perry to tighten the muscles, tissue, and skin of the mid- and lower face. Just as in the traditional facelift, the mini facelift tightens the face’s underlying structures and removes excess skin.

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Risks of Facelift Surgery

The following list serves as an introduction to some of the risks of facelift surgery. You will have further discussion of the surgery’s risks will take place during your pre-surgery consultations with Dr. Perry. The risks of mini facelift are generally milder when compared to traditional facelift, as the procedure is less invasive than the traditional facelift technique; however, in all cases you must be prepared for the possibility that complications can arise.

Bleeding and Hematoma

Facelift and mini facelift, when performed at our Sacramento practice near Roseville, are very safe surgeries. However, bleeding episodes or hematoma (fluid accumulation under the skin) can occur, and might require a return trip to the hospital.

Hair loss at incision sites

Hair loss may be temporary or permanent.

Numbness or injury to nerves that control facial muscles

This is usually temporary, but can be permanent.

Reactions to anesthesia

Poor healing

While the chance of poor healing can be reduced by not smoking and carefully following postsurgical instructions, it is impossible to predict.

Wide scarring

In some cases, this may be corrected with further surgery.

Asymmetry

As no face is perfectly balanced, absolute symmetry is not to be expected after facelift surgery. In some cases, there will be marked asymmetry, which can make you disappointed with the results of your surgery.

Skin necrosis (tissue death)

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Complete Pre- and Post-operative Instructions for Facelift and Mini Facelift Patients

Dr. Perry has prepared this comprehensive list of instructions to make your facelift experience as smooth as possible. We recommend that you read them over as soon as your surgery day is scheduled, then print them out and bring them with you on your surgery day.

Facelift instructions (printer-friendly)

Traditional and Mini Facelift at Our Sacramento Practice

To schedule a consultation or learn more about traditional or mini facelift, contact our Roseville-area practice.

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Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)

As you age, sagging eyelids and puffy under-eye bags can make you look much older than you feel. Don't let aging features hold you back! Regain your youthful outlook on life through eyelid surgery, a procedure that restores a smooth, alert appearance to the eye area by excising excess skin, fat, and muscle from the upper eyelid and sometimes the lower eyelid as well. While mainly a cosmetic procedure, health insurance may cover the cost of blepharoplasty if extreme hooding of the upper eyelids is obscuring vision.

Blepharoplasty is a highly customizable procedure. Eyelid surgery can address the upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both, utilizing various techniques to address the extent and location of excess tissue.

Eyelid surgery at our Sacramento practice is often combined with facelift or browlift surgery for complete facial rejuvenation.

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Candidates for Eyelid Surgery

Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) is helpful for men and women who have sagging of the eyelids as a result of aging or genetics. While most patients who undergo eyelid surgery are over the age of 35, eyelid surgery can be performed at nearly any age. Good candidates for eyelid surgery are healthy, mentally stable, and understanding of the procedure’s limitations.

During your blepharoplasty consultation at our Sacramento office near Roseville, Dr. Perry will advise you on which type of procedure can give your eye area the look you desire. In some cases, a patient’s cosmetic complaints are best addressed with a browlift rather than eyelid surgery. As a general rule, if your eyelids have excess skin and fat, either with our without under-eye bags, you are an ideal candidate for eyelid surgery; if your primary problem is drooping eyebrows, browlift surgery may be the better choice.

Eyelid surgery is not recommended for:

Individuals suffering from certain medical conditions

Medical issues including diabetes, dry eyes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, hypothyroidism, Graves’ disease, detached retina, or glaucoma could cause complications. In many cases, these medical conditions will not disqualify you from undergoing eyelid surgery, but you should discuss them with your surgeon and eye doctor.

Individuals with unrealistic cosmetic expectations

Individuals wishing to address wrinkles, dark under-eye bags, or sagging eyebrows

These conditions are best addressed with BOTOX® Cosmetic, browlift surgery, and other procedures.>

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Things to Consider Before Undergoing Eyelid Surgery

Financial responsibilities

Fees for blepharoplasty are not covered by health insurance. Surgical fees include the cost of anesthesia, lab tests, medications, cost of surgical supplies, surgery center charges, and more. If complications develop, you will incur additional charges. However, if the complication poses a health risk, your health plan will cover hospitalization, anesthesia, and/or secondary surgery.

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How is eyelid surgery performed?

Blepharoplasty is most often performed under a combination of local anesthesia and oral or intravenous sedation. This approach best allows the surgeon to assess the progress of the surgery. In some cases, however, eyelid surgery is performed under general anesthesia. Eyelid surgery is an outpatient surgery, meaning you will return home the same day.

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Risks of Eyelid Surgery

Eyelid surgery , just like any surgical procedure, carries some risks. Patients should be aware that it is possible to experience one or more complications following blepharoplasty, and their incidence is usually impossible to predict. Be aware that the following list is not comprehensive; Dr. Perry will discuss other potential risks at your consultation.

Bleeding

Though unlikely, it is possible for eyelid surgery to cause excessive bleeding, either during or after surgery. To decrease the chance of bleeding, avoid aspirin, anti-inflammatory medications, nonprescription herbs, and dietary supplements, as directed by Dr. Perry. High blood pressure can also predispose a patient to bleeding.

Infection

The eyeball’s abundant blood supply makes infection extremely rare, though it is possible. In the case of infection, additional treatment, such as the prescription of antibiotics and hospitalization, may be required.

Scarring

It is possible for abnormal scarring to occur in the eyelid and the deeper tissues following blepharoplasty. In addition, sutures can cause cysts or visible marks along the eyelid. Scarring may necessitate additional treatment.

Damage to the eye’s structures

The eye is delicate, and eyelid surgery is a complicated surgery that involves a great deal of skill. Even when undergoing eyelid surgery with the most experienced surgeon, it’s possible for deeper structures — eye muscles, nerves, blood vessels, etc. — to be damaged. This injury can be temporary or lasting. Eyelash loss, double vision, and drooping of the eyelid can occur, as well as blindness.

Dry eye problems

Dry eye problems caused by decreased tear production are a possible complication of eyelid surgery. This side effect is rare and impossible to predict, and can be treated with eye drops and ointments. If you suffer from dry eyes, mention this to Dr. Perry when considering eyelid surgery, as it may affect your candidacy.

Asymmetry

Just as the eyelids are usually naturally asymmetrical, they may still be asymmetrical following eyelid surgery. While surgeons take care to give the same treatment to each eyelid, symmetry is impossible to predict.

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Double vision

This is rare and usually resolved in six weeks.

Drooping of the upper eyelid

This is rare and usually resolves as post-surgery swelling goes down, but if this drooping persists for more than three months, additional surgery may be necessary.

Undercorrection (residual skin folds)

Many surgeons approach eyelid surgery conservatively. As a result, some residual skin folds may remain. These can be easily addressed, whereas removing too much skin during eyelid surgery is much more difficult to repair. In some cases, residual skin folds may indicate the need for browlift surgery.

Eyelash loss

Eyelash loss in the lower lid area following blepharoplasty is impossible to predict and can be either temporary or permanent.

Unsatisfactory result

A poor blepharoplasty result can stem from visible deformities, loss of eyesight, wound disruption, loss of sensation, and other factors. In rare cases, additional surgery, possibly browlift, may be necessary to improve results. Additionally, long-term alterations in the eyelids' appearance can occur.

Delayed healing

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Complete Pre- and Post-operative Instructions for Eyelid Surgery Patients

To make your eyelid surgery experience at our Sacramento practice a positive one, we have prepared this comprehensive list of instructions. We recommend that you read them over as soon as your surgery day is scheduled. On your surgery day, print them out and bring them with you.

Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) instructions (printer-friendly)

Contact Us for Eyelid Surgery at Our Sacramento Practice

Feel relaxed, rejuvenated, and confident with eyelid surgery! Those who are interested in blepharoplasty should contact our Sacramento practice near Roseville today for more information about the procedure or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Perry.

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Browlift (Forehead Lift)

The aging process can bring drooping eyebrows, marked forehead creases, and an involuntarily tired, sad, or angry appearance. In some cases, these aesthetic issues can be resolved through eyelid surgery or facelift; however, in other cases, browlift surgery, also known as a forehead lift, is required to smooth the appearance of the forehead, re-elevate the brows to their proper position, and restore a refreshed and youthful look. While a forehead lift does not have the ability achieve the same cosmetic goals as eyelid surgery, it does allow patients to open up the upper eyelid area by elevating the eyebrows. Browlift surgery helps patients look their best and regain their confidence.

The incisions utilized during browlift surgery are hidden behind the hairline. Through this incision (or multiple one-inch incisions if the endoscopic browlift technique is used), the surgeon will remove or alter the muscles and tissues responsible for drooping and furrowing.

We offer two types of browlift surgery: the traditional coronal browlift technique, and the less invasive endoscopic browlift technique. Read more about these two surgical methods below, and consult with Dr. Perry to determine which procedure will best accomplish your aesthetic goals.

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Candidates for Browlift Surgery

The ideal candidate for browlift surgery is a man or woman with visible signs of aging in the forehead and brow region, such as drooping of the eyebrows and forehead creases. While most people who undergo browlift surgery are between 40 and 60 years old, this procedure can help those of any age seeking to erase visible signs of aging or correct an inherited trait, such as a low, heavy brow. As with any surgery, the best browlift candidate is physically healthy, mentally stable, and has realistic expectations about the results that can be achieved with browlift surgery.

If you are bald, have a receding hairline, or have undergone previous upper- eyelid surgery, it is likely than you can still undergo browlift surgery. The surgeon will alter the technique and location of the incision to suit your needs.

Browlift is not recommended for:

• Individuals with unrealistic expectations
• Individuals suffering from certain medical conditions

This includes high blood pressure and blood-clotting problems. These conditions can complicate the surgery and post-surgical healing. Inform Dr. Perry of any health problems you have or medications you take before undergoing surgery.

• Patients suffering from laxity of the mid to lower face

This is better addressed by a facelift or mini facelift. However, if a patient has marked forehead creases as well as facial sagging, facelift can be successfully combined with browlift.

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Things to Consider Before Undergoing Browlift Surgery

Financial responsibilities

Fees for browlift include surgical materials, facility fees, anesthesia fees, and more. Health insurance does not cover browlift surgery, and should complications arise that require additional surgery, you will incur further expenses.

Unplanned abandonment of the endoscopic technique

If, during the endoscopic browlift procedure, a complication arises, the surgeon may have to abandon the endoscopic technique and switch to the conventional open procedure. This can result in a longer recovery period and a more extensive scar.

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How is browlift surgery performed?

Browlift surgery can be performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia that has been combined with a sedative. Browlift is rarely performed the same way for every patient. Like eyelid surgery, the procedure is highly customizable based on the patient’s unique needs. There are various browlift surgery techniques, and the chosen technique depends on your needs. Read more about the surgical approaches to browlift that we offer in Sacramento at Chrysalis Cosmetics.

The Coronal Browlift

The surgeon will prepare you for the surgery by securing your hair with rubber bands on each side of the incision line. Though your hair will not be shaved, hair growing directly in front of the incision line may be trimmed.

Usually, an incision behind the hairline to keep any scarring concealed. This incision resembles a pair of headphones, extending from the top of one ear, arching over the head and back down the other side until reaching the top of the other ear. A slight rise of the hairline is to be expected with this technique. If your hairline is already high, or is receding, the incision can be placed at the hairline to draw your hairline down. Patients can make scars less conspicuous by covering them with bangs, or a new hairstyle.

After making the incision, the surgeon will carefully lift the flap of skin from the forehead, and set about smoothing and altering the muscles of the forehead. The skin is then lifted taut, the scalp elevated, and excess skin trimmed along the incision site. Finally, the incision is sutured closed.

The Endoscopic Browlift

Just as with in the traditional browlift procedure described above, the endoscopic technique begins with tying back of the hair at the incision sites.

Instead of utilizing one long incision, the endoscopic technique uses five inch-long incisions, each hidden within the hairline. Once the incisions are made, an endoscope (a tiny camera connected to a monitor) is inserted through one of the incisions to give the surgeon a view of the underlying muscles and tissues.

As in the traditional technique, the forehead skin is separated from the underlying structures and the muscles and tissues are altered or removed, producing a smoother, more youthful appearance. The eyebrows are lifted to a higher position and secured using sutures and temporary surgical screws that are absorbed by the body.

With the lift portion of the surgery complete, the small incisions along the scalp are closed with sutures or clips.

The advantage of this technique is that it is less invasive, and patients generally experience less swelling, bruising and pain during recovery compared to the traditional method.

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Risks of Browlift Surgery

Risks are inherent in any surgical procedure. The following list covers some, though not all, possible risks of the browlift procedure. Dr. Perry will educate you further about possible complications during your consultation.

Loss of forehead and/or scalp skin

Known as necrosis of the flap, this condition is rare, but is more common among smokers.

Hair loss along the scar edges

This is impossible to predict, but hair loss is usually not extensive.

Difficulty closing the eyelids

Especially if upper eyelid blepharoplasty is done at the same time as browlift surgery, or has been done in the past, browlift surgery can lead to some difficulty in closing the eyelids.

Eyebrow asymmetry

While surgeons aim for an aesthetically pleasing balance, the human face is not symmetrical, and perfect symmetry following browlift surgery must not be expected.

Formation of a broad scar

This is rare, and can be treated by removing the wide scar tissue to make way for a new, thinner scar.

Damage of nerves that control eyebrow movement

The surgery can injure the nerves that control eyebrow movement, either on one side or both. This can result in an inability to wrinkle the forehead or raise the eyebrows.

Loss of sensation along or behind the incision

This complication is relatively common, especially when the traditional, coronal browlift technique is used. Sensation usually returns within six to 12 months, but is sometimes permanent.

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Complete Pre- and Post-operative Instructions for Browlift Patients

To give our patients a comfortable and positive browlift surgery experience, we have compiled this comprehensive list of pre- and post-surgery instructions. Study the instructions before surgery, and print them out and bring them with you on your surgery day.

Browlift instructions (printer-friendly)

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Neck Lift

Aging, extra weight, genetics, or a receding chin or jaw line can cause the appearance of a fleshy, saggy neck, or the formation of banding below the chin and along the neck. But don't let an aging neck hold you back from enjoying life! Neck lift surgery restores the appearance of a taut, slender neck by correcting sagging skin, tightening and altering the neck muscles, and removing excess fat. The results of neck lift surgery reveal a smoother, more youthful-looking neck and a more defined jaw line and chin. In some cases, a neck lift creates the appearance of weight loss.

Neck lift surgery is often combined with a facelift, eyelid surgery, the placement of a chin implant, or liposuction at our Sacramento cosmetic surgery practice to remove excess fat deposits along the neck.

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Candidates for Neck Lift Surgery

If you are unsatisfied with your neck because it appears fleshy or droopy, you are an ideal candidate for neck lift. Most patients who undergo this surgery are 30 to 70 years old, but anyone over 18 may be a candidate for the surgery.

Browlift is not recommended for:

• Individuals with unrealistic expectations
• Individuals suffering from certain medical conditions

This includes high blood pressure and blood-clotting problems. These medical issues can complicate the surgery and postsurgical healing. Inform Dr. Perry of any health problems you have or medications you take.

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Things to Consider Before Undergoing Neck Lift Surgery

Financial responsibilities

Fees for neck lift surgery are not covered by health insurance and include surgical materials, facility fees, anesthesia fees, and more. In addition, because a neck lift may involve several procedures (chin implant, facelift, and liposuction of excess fat in the neck), the cost may be higher.

Risk of complications

Because a neck lift can include several procedures, the possibility of complications is somewhat elevated.

Potential reversal of results

Aging and weight gain can negate the results of a neck lift. A neck lift can turn back the clock, but the aging process will continue to affect your appearance. You may require an additional procedure down the road to maintain the results of your neck lift surgery.

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How is neck lift surgery performed?

Neck lift surgery is an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia, or local anesthesia combined with a sedative.

The neck lift procedure usually combines several procedures which are typically performed through two small incisions either under or behind the ear, and another small incision hidden beneath the chin. Through these incisions the skin and muscles of the neck are tightened, excess skin and fat is removed, and the skin is pulled taut before is the incisions are sutured closed.

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Risks of Neck Lift Surgery

Risks are inherent in any surgical procedure. Because the neck lift procedure may also include the placement of a chin implant, facelift surgery, or liposuction, you should read over the respective risks of those procedures in addition to the list below. Dr. Perry will educate you further about possible complications associated with your procedure or group of procedures during your consultation.

Infection

This can usually be treated with antibiotics, but might require a return to the hospital.

Allergic reaction to anesthesia

Reactions to anesthesia are the most common surgical complication. They can be serious and in extreme cases even life-threatening.

Hematoma (accumulation of blood beneath the skin)

If this occurs, the blood will need to be drained.

Injury to nerves

Though rare, neck lift surgery can injure the nerves in the neck, causing permanent damage.

Excessive scar tissue

Scarring after neck lift surgery can be unsightly, but we are often able to address this complication surgically, improving the appearance of the scar.

Numbness

Some temporary numbness after surgery is common, but in rare cases full sensation does not return to the area.

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Complete Pre- and Post-operative Instructions for Neck Lift Patients

We have prepared this comprehensive list of pre- and post-surgery instructions to guide you through your neck lift procedure and recovery. Study the instructions before surgery, and print them out and bring them with you on your surgery day.

Neck lift instructions (printer-friendly)

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Rhinoplasty (Nose Surgery)

Rhinoplasty is a procedure that can improve the appearance of your nose, as well as its structure and function. It is celebrated for its ability to bring balance to the face and enhance patients' lives by increasing their confidence and self-esteem. Rhinoplasty can enhance the look of your nose in a variety of ways; it can reduce or increase your nose’s size, change the shape of the tip, narrow the nostrils’ width, remove a bump, or change the angle or distance between the nose and the upper lip.

Breathing problems can be can be surgically addressed at the same time as cosmetic nose surgery is being performed.

It is extremely common for rhinoplasty surgery to be performed at the same time as eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), facelift surgery, or another facial rejuvenation procedure. If there is something you don't like about your nose, you don't have to live with it. Today's rhinoplasty techniques are highly refined and can give you a look you love.

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Candidates for Rhinoplasty

The ideal candidate for rhinoplasty is healthy, mentally stable, and expects an improvement — not perfection — in the appearance of their nose.

Rhinoplasty is not recommended for:

• Individuals with unrealistic expectations
• Individuals that have not completed their growth spurt

Surgeons generally wait to operate on girls until they are 14 or 15, and boys a little after that.

• Individuals suffering from certain medical conditions
• Individuals with substance abuse problems that involve cocaine or other vasoconstrictive drugs

Use of these drugs puts patients at risk for major complications, including poor wound healing and nasal septal perforation.

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Things to Consider Before Undergoing Rhinoplasty

Financial responsibilities

Fees associated with rhinoplasty surgery performed for purely cosmetic reasons are not covered by health insurance.

Further surgery may be necessary

In some cases, the patients are disappointed with their surgical results. They may choose to undergo additional surgery, or learn to accept the result. Because the results of rhinoplasty surgery take a year to fully appear, patients must wait that long after surgery for additional procedures.

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How is rhinoplasty performed?

Rhinoplasty is a highly customizable surgery, and the approached used varies depending on the needs of the patient. There are two main approaches to completing rhinoplasty surgery. In the majority of cases Dr. Perry uses the open rhinoplasty technique, in which the procedure is performed through a small incision made across the small strip of tissue between the nostrils. This approach is best suited for more extensive and complex rhinoplasty surgeries. Less complicated nose surgeries can be performed using the closed rhinoplasty technique, which is performed from the inside of the nose through an incision made along the inside of the nostril.

To reshape the nose, cartilage grafts — using tissue harvested from the nose, ear, or another part of the body — are sometimes used.

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Risks of Rhinoplasty

While rhinoplasty is a popular procedure that generally yields good results, risks are inherent in any surgical procedure. The following list covers some, though not all, of the possible risks of rhinoplasty. You will have further discussion about the possible consequences of rhinoplasty with Dr. Perry during your consultation.

Bleeding

In rare cases, bleeding problems occur during or after surgery. To reduce the chances of bleeding problems, avoid aspirin and other anti-inflammatory medications for ten days before surgery. In extreme cases, hematoma (accumulation of blood under the skin) can cause scarring and delay healing.

Infection

Though unusual, infection can occur after rhinoplasty, and may require antibiotics or some other treatment. If cartilage grafts are used during surgery, infection may require their removal.

Scarring

It is possible for rhinoplasty surgery to result in abnormal scars in the skin and the nose’s deeper tissues. In addition, sutures can leave visible marks. Scarring can sometimes be treated with additional surgery.

Damage to deeper structures

Nerves, blood vessels, and cartilage can be damaged during rhinoplasty. This injury can be temporary or permanent, and its potential varies according to the type of rhinoplasty that is performed.

Numbness

Rhinoplasty carries a risk for permanent numbness of the nose. This loss of feeling can be partial or complete, and is impossible to predict.

Asymmetry

As the human face is normally asymmetrical, perfect symmetry following rhinoplasty cannot be expected. In some cases, asymmetry will be marked. In some cases, asymmetry can be treated by laser therapy.

Nasal airway alterations

While your surgeon will take care to preserve and sometimes even improve the passage of air through your nose during rhinoplasty, it’s possible for changes to occur that may interfere with this normal passage of air, including nasal septal perforation.

Delayed healing or wound disruption

Some areas may heal slowly or abnormally following rhinoplasty, and areas of skin may die. This necessitates frequent changes of the wound dressings, or further surgery to remove dying tissue.

Long-term alterations in appearance

Factors unrelated to rhinoplasty, such as aging and sun exposure, can affect the appearance of your nose. In some cases, future surgery will be needed to maintain the results of rhinoplasty surgery.

Complications with cartilage grafts

If the goal of surgery is to alter the appearance of the nose’s tip, cartilage grafts may be needed, and these can introduce complications. Nasal septal perforations can occur, as well as complications of the donor site (the ear) including scarring, infection, and numbness.

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Complete Pre- and Post-operative Instructions for Rhinoplasty Patients

To make your rhinoplasty experience a positive one, we have prepared this comprehensive list of instructions. We recommend that you read them over as soon as your surgery day is scheduled. On your surgery day, print them out and bring them with you.

Rhinoplasty instructions (printer-friendly)

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Chin and Cheek Implants

Take a look at the world's most famous actors, actresses, and models, and you will notice that they have high cheekbones and a chin that balances their features. Facial implants may not make you a movie star, but they can provide subtle cosmetic enhancement and give proper balance to your face.

Chin Implants

Chin implants can make a weak chin stronger, strengthening your profile and improving facial balance. They can also correct a receding chin caused by disease, genetics or facial trauma. Chin implants can also be used to draw attention from your nose by creating harmony amongst your facial characteristics.

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Cheek Implants

Cheek implants can give fullness to flat cheekbones, enhancing your beauty or restoring a youthful look. Genetics, trauma, or aging can give a person inadequate cheek volume, and cheek implants minimize this. Cheek implants can also be used post-traumatically, to treat congenital deformities, or to correct asymmetry.

Both chin and cheek implants are subtle enhancements that are not overly noticeable on their own, but rather re-focus attention to your best features. The placement of facial implants can be combined with facelift or eyelid surgery ( blepharoplasty) to achieve more comprehensive facial enhancement. Similar, though less permanent, ways to achieve the cosmetic results of chin and cheek implants include fat transfer and dermal fillers such as Sculptra™.

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Implant Materials

At Chrysalis Cosmetics, we offer two different types of implant materials: MEDPOR®, a porous material; and solid, flexible silicone. MEDPOR® is a type of polyethylene, a material long used to create surgical implants. Polyethylene is easily cut and trimmed to precise, individual specifications, and the implant relies on tissue integration to stay in place. The porous material promotes tissue ingrowth, which helps minimize the chance of implant movement or extrusion.

Silicone also has a long history as a facial implant material. It is solid, flexible, and durable. Unlike MEDPOR® implants, silicone is easily removed if necessary, and has no liquid or gel that can leak or bleed out. Silicone implants are non-porous and do not rely on tissue integration; rather, the implant becomes bonded to the bone via titanium screws. Both MEDPOR® polyethylene implants and silicone implants have advantages and disadvantages, and it is best to discuss which type of implant is best for you during your consultation with Dr. Perry.

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Candidates for Chin and Cheek Implant Surgery

The ideal candidate for chin or cheek implants is a healthy, mentally stable adult who wishes to improve the look of his or her cheekbones, jawline, or chin.

Facial implant surgery is not recommended for:

• Individuals with unrealistic expectations
• Individuals with active diseases or pre-existing medical conditions

These include bleeding disorders and problems with healing. Talk to Dr. Perry about your medical history.

• Individuals with certain dental issues

These types of problems can especially jeopardize cheek implant surgery.

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Things to Consider Before Receiving Cheek or Chin Implants

Facial implants often compliment facelift surgery

Facial implants, especially cheek implants, are commonly combined with facelift surgery to improve the end result. The implants can be placed through the same incisions created during facelift surgery, creating more complete cosmetic enhancement. Facial implants can also be combined with eyelid surgery for impressive results.

Avoid forceful contact to the implant site for several months

This can cause the implant to shift or otherwise jeopardize the results of the surgery.

Further surgery may be necessary

In some cases, the patient will be disappointed with one or more aspects of their surgical results. Some patients choose to undergo additional surgery, while others accept the result. In other cases, complications may create a need for further surgery, which will cause the patient to incur additional charges.

Financial responsibilities

Facial implant surgery that is performed for purely cosmetic reasons is not covered by health insurance. However, if your facial implant surgery corrects a congenital defect or the effects of facial trauma your health insurance may cover a portion of the cost. To find out whether or not your plan covers the procedure, please refer to your health plan’s Evidence of Coverage.

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How is cheek or chin implant surgery performed?

Facial implant surgery is usually done under general anesthesia, though it can also be done with local anesthesia combined with IV sedation. Before surgery, you will discuss whether a MEDPOR® or silicone implant will be best for you. Once the material is chosen, the surgeon will shape and size the implant depending on what will best work for you.

Chin Implant Placement

Chin implants are placed through a small incision on the inside of the mouth or, especially if the implant is on the larger side, on the underside of the chin.

Cheek Implant Placement

Cheek implants are placed through an incision on the inside of the mouth, in the lower eyelid, or in the temple area behind the hairline. The surgical approach depends on the size of the implant; the eyelid approach, for example, may complicate the placement of a larger implant.

After the chin or cheek implant is placed, the incision is sutured close, usually with dissolvable stitches. Facial implant surgery is an outpatient procedure, so you will be able to return home the same day.

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Risks of Chin or Cheek Implant Surgery

Facial implant surgery is generally safe, though any surgery carries risks. The following list covers some, though not all, possible risks; you will further discuss the risks of surgery with Dr. Perry during your consultation.

Infection

While infection can usually be managed by antibiotics, in extreme cases the implant may need to be removed and replaced to control infection.

Shifting of the implant

Implant movement is impossible to predict, and would require surgery to correct. MEDPOR® implants are made of a porous material through which tissue grows, virtually eliminating chances of the implant shifting.

Hematoma / Seroma

Collection of fluid or blood under the skin requires draining by a physician.

Sensory changes

During any surgery, but it can be permanent in some cases.

Asymmetry

Facial implants can be used to correct facial asymmetry; however, in some cases they can create asymmetry. This can be corrected with further surgery.

Visibility of the implant through the skin

Facial implants are designed to bond with tissue or bone, and to become undetectable by sight and touch. However, in some cases this does not happen, and the implant can be seen or felt beneath the skin.

Implant extrusion

In rare instances, the implant can come through the skin. In this case, the implant must be surgically removed.

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Complete Pre- and Post-operative Instructions for Chin and Cheek Implant Patients

This comprehensive list of instructions provide pre- and post-operative guidelines for patients undergoing facial implant surgery. We recommend that you read over the instructions as soon as your surgery day is scheduled, then print them out and bring them with you on the day of surgery.

Chin Implant instructions (printer-friendly)

Cheek Implant instructions (printer-friendly)

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Surgical Lip Augmentation (Lip Lift)

Full, sensuous lips and a broad smile are universal signs of youth and beauty. Methods of lip enhancement continue to proliferate, and one of the most dramatic and long-lasting is surgical lip augmentation.

Surgical lip augmentation, also known as a lip lift or lip advancement, can be used to create volume in naturally thin lips or combat the effects of aging. Aging can cause the cupid’s bow to flatten, the upper lip to lengthen, and fine lines to form around the lips; lip augmentation can address all of these challenges.

There are many techniques for lip augmentation, and the method Dr. Perry uses is highly dependent upon your individual situation. Fat transfer, using fat harvested from your own body, differs from the lip lift technique but can be used for lip augmentation to help give lasting, natural looking volume to the lips.

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Candidates for Surgical Lip Augmentation

The ideal candidate for surgical lip augmentation is a healthy, mentally stable adult seeking to add volume to naturally thin lips, widen the colored part of their lips, or minimize the signs of aging on their lips.

Lip augmentation is not recommended for:

• Individuals with unrealistic expectations

Lip lift surgery can improve on genetics or erase some of the signs of aging. However, it cannot permanently arrest aging, and in some cases will bring only a modest increase in lip volume.

• Individuals seeking minimally invasive lip augmentation

Lip lift surgery is the most permanent of any lip augmentation technique, but it’s also the most invasive. For nonsurgical lip augmentation, consider Restylane®, or fat transfer.

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Things to Consider Before Undergoing Surgical Lip Augmentation

Results last about five to ten years

This is much longer than other dermal fillers, such as Restylane® or Radiesse™. However, this surgery cannot permanently arrest the effects of aging, and the results of the surgery will eventually fade as aging continues to progress, just like the results of facelift/mini facelift are eventually overtaken by aging.

Lip lift can be combined with fat transfer

If you seek to shorten your upper lip while adding substantial volume to one or both of your lips, consider fat transfer. However, please note that fat transfer takes a few sessions to yield optimal results.

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How is lip augmentation surgery performed?

As mentioned above, the technique used to accomplished lip augmentation is highly dependent on the patient’s individual anatomy and aesthetic goals. There are two techniques commonly used for lip augmentation. The first approach is the “gull-wing” technique, in which the surgeon carefully excises skin from above the border of your top lip; this skin resembles the shape of a gull wing. Once this thin strip of skin is removed, the edges are sutured together, creating a shorter upper lip, a rejuvenated cupid’s bow, and enhanced volume in the upper lip.

The second technique, called the "bullhorn" or subnasal technique, is similar to the "gull wing" technique, except the incision is made under the base of the nose, rather than the top of the upper lip. A thin strip of skin is excised, following the curve of the nose. The resultant strip of skin resembles the shape of a bull’s horns. Next, the edges of the incision are pulled together, and carefully closed with sutures.

The main difference between the two techniques is the location of the scar. In the "gull-wing" technique, the scar is hidden along the border of the lip; in the subnasal incision, the scar is hidden in the depression at the base of the nose.

Lip lift surgery can be performed under general anesthesia, or local anesthesia combined with IV sedation.

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Risks of Lip Augmentation Surgery

The following list covers some, though not all, possible risks of surgical lip augmentation. You will have further discussions of risks with Dr. Perry so you can understand the possible consequences of lip lift before undergoing the procedure.

Asymmetry

Despite the surgeon’s skill and best efforts, it’s possible for lip lift surgery to yield a top lip with marked asymmetry.

Scarring

As with any facial procedure like eyelid surgery ( blepharoplasty), facelift, or mini facelift, lip lift surgery is performed using techniques designed to hide scars in inconspicuous places. However, it’s possible for patients to experience abnormal healing or wide scars. This may lead to disappointment in the results of the procedure. Sometimes further surgery can correct abnormal scarring.

Permanent numbness

In rare cases, lip lift surgery has caused temporary or permanent loss of sensation in the lips.

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Complete Pre- and Post-operative Instructions for Surgical Lip Augmentation Patients

To make your lip lift surgery experience a positive one, we have prepared this comprehensive list of instructions to guide your behavior both before and after surgery. We recommend that you read over the instructions as soon as your surgery day is scheduled, and bring a printed copy with you on your surgery day.

Lip augmentation instructions (printer-friendly)

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Otoplasty (Ear Surgery)

Otoplasty, also known as ear pinning cosmetic ear surgery, can correct a variety of ear-related complaints and enhance your or your child's self-esteem and confidence. Ear surgery can correct over- or undersized ears, set the ears closer to the head, improve symmetry between the ears, or improve the appearance of large or stretched earlobes. It can also correct “lop ear” (when the ear’s upper tip folds down and forward) or “shell ear” (when the ear’s natural folds, creases and curves are missing).

Otoplasty is most commonly performed on children 4-15 years old who would face ridicule because of oversized or protruding ears. However, ear surgery can help people of all ages, and no additional risks are introduced when the surgery is performed on adults. If your ears are a source of embarrassment or lower self-esteem, consider ear surgery as a way to gain confidence in your appearance.

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Candidates for Ear Surgery

Ear surgery can help a variety of people, including children who have large or protruding ears and adults who have suffered injury to the ear or otherwise wish to improve the appearance or position of their ears.

Ear surgery is not recommended for:

• Individuals under four years old

The ears are not fully grown at this time.

• Individuals with certain medical conditions

Inform Dr. Perry of any health problems you have or medications you take.

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Things to Consider Before Undergoing Ear Surgery

Duration of recovery

Bulky bandages will need to be worn after ear surgery; these will be replaced with a lighter headband-style bandage after a few days. Children may return to school seven days after surgery but must be careful about playground activity. For a month, sports and any activity in which the ear might be bent must be avoided. Please plan ahead when undergoing ear surgery, and plan according to your child’s schedule.

Perfect symmetry cannot be expected

While ear surgery can help improve symmetry if one ear markedly differs from another, and the surgeon will do his best to achieve symmetry when operating on both ears at once, perfect symmetry following any type of ear surgery is an unreasonable expectation.

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How is ear surgery performed?

Like facelift, blepharoplasty, and other facial procedures, ear surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure. When performed on small children, ear surgery is typically completed under general anesthesia; on older patients, local anesthesia coupled with sedation usually suffices.

There are several ear surgery techniques, and the selected approach is largely dependent on the nature of the aesthetic problem. In general, the surgeon begins otoplasty by making a small incision along the back of the ear, exposing the ear cartilage. The surgeon then reshapes the cartilage, positioning it toward the head to make the ears lay flatly against the head. In some cases, a large piece of cartilage will be removed, or the surgeon will use stitches to fold the cartilage back on itself, reshaping the ear. Often, the surgeon will use permanent sutures to help the ear hold its new shape. The scar, located in an inconspicuous spot at the back of the ear, will fade to near-invisibility over time.

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Risks of Ear Surgery

Ear surgery is typically a highly successful surgery with a low incidence of complications. However, complications are possible with any surgical procedure.

Infection of the cartilage

This can spur the formation of scar tissue. Infection is usually managed with antibiotics and, in rare cases, further surgery.

Suture-related complications

In some cases, the new position of the ear is maintained by permanent sutures, and these can poke through the skin and need to be removed.

Allergic reaction to anesthesia

Reactions to anesthesia are the most common surgical complication. They can be serious and in extreme cases even life-threatening.

Blood clots

While most blood clots disappear on their own, some may need to be drawn out with a needle.

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Complete Pre- and Post-operative Instructions for Ear Surgery Patients

To guide you or your child’s ear surgery, we have prepared this comprehensive list of pre- and post-surgery instructions. Review the instructions before surgery, and print them out and bring them along on surgery day.

Ear surgery instructions (printer-friendly)

Facial Procedures at Chrysalis Cosmetics

If your seek facial rejuvenation, rely on Chrysalis Cosmetics and Dr. Charles Perry for eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), traditional and mini facelift, and other facial procedures. Our Sacramento office serves Roseville and the surrounding areas, providing state-of-the-art plastic surgery that will help you look and feel better than ever before. Take charge of your life today! Contact Chrysalis Cosmetics to get started on your consultation, or to learn more about the ways we can enhance your life.

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To learn more about blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), mini facelift or any of our other services, contact our Sacramento practice near Roseville and El Dorado Hills.

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