Facial Surgery

Top Facial Plastic Myths

All of the rumors and conflicting information about plastic surgery has made researching the subject quite confusing. While the internet has made it easy to share information, it has also made it hard to distinguish what is fact and what is fallacy. The following is an assembled list of some of the most commonly repeated myths, accompanied by the facts.

Myth: Only one plastic surgery procedure can be done at a time.
Fact: While many people choose to get only one plastic surgery procedure at a time, it is indeed possible to have more than one procedure in one sitting. However, combined procedures require more time under anesthesia; so to protect your safety you will get a physical examination in order to be medically cleared by a doctor before undergoing surgery.

Myth: All plastic surgeons are equally qualified.
Fact: All surgeons are not equally qualified. Board certification is an essential criterion, but even board certified surgeons vary widely in qualifications and skills. Just because a plastic surgeon flaunts many different kinds of certifications, has their degree and passed a rigorous written test, it doesn't mean they are the best. Even though many cosmetic surgeons advertise themselves as having many different kinds of certifications, only the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery certifies that someone is fully trained in plastic surgery of the face and body.

Myth: Plastic surgery does not require follow-up examinations.
Fact: For your safety and benefit, follow-up visits after surgery are highly recommended. The follow-up appointments allow your surgeon to examine your healing process and make any changes to your post-operative care if necessary. It is important to keep follow-up appointments, because it may save you from having to undergo a revision operation or having to withstand painful complications. Not to mention, plastic surgeons are trained to be able to identify early signs of problems, so they can catch them before they get worse.

Myth: Plastic surgery is just for the wealthy.
Fact: Most people consider plastic surgery as something that only the wealthy can afford. However, in recent years, statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgery show that the vast majority of patients undergoing plastic surgery are middle-class patients who use their own disposable income. From young women to older men, facial plastic surgery has become increasingly popular among people from all walks of life. Many plastic surgeons even offer a variety of flexible financing options for those who need the added assistance.

Ultimately, the decision to undergo plastic surgery should not stem from the cost, but from what underlying issue you are trying to improve- be it aesthetics or function. If you have any other questions or concerns regarding facial plastics, contact your doctor.

Eyelid Surgery Recovery

Many people give a lot of thought to the results of their eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, but they never actually think about the eyelid surgery recovery and healing process. With any type of surgery, the recovery is an important part to ensuring the best outcome in a timely fashion. Knowing what to expect after your eyelid surgery will better prepare you for any bumps in the road or unexpected changes. Here at Garlich Facial Plastic Surgery, we are dedicated to perfection and helping you have the best recovery experience possible.

Activity Restrictions
After you have eyelid surgery, it's important for you to take it easy for at least 7 to 10 days. Avoid strenuous activities for at least 3 weeks. If you wear contacts, refrain from using them and stick with just your glasses for a couple weeks. Most people can go back to work after 10 days, but blurred vision may still persist and make daily tasks challenging. You will likely experience mild discomfort for a week or so after your surgery, but we will prescribe you medications to alleviate the pain.

Bruising and Swelling
Because the eyes are extremely delicate, swelling and bruising will likely occur after the surgery. The swelling can last up to three weeks and bruising can vary from moderate to extreme, but both will fade over time. In order to keep the bruising and swelling to a minimum, place cold compresses carefully over your eyes and face. This will also relieve any pain you may have as well.

Sleeping
Sleeping after surgery may be slightly uncomfortable and difficult. To minimize swelling, it's important to sleep with your head elevated for several days after the surgery. You can either purchase a foam wedge pillow or craft your own wedge from pillows around your bed.

At Garlich, we are committed to ensuring your comfort and satisfaction throughout the entire process. We encourage communication and will talk to you through any concerns or problems you may have. If you experience excessive pain, dryness, or any signs of an infection please contact us so we can relieve your symptoms immediately and get you back on track to proper healing. 

Get directions to our Gainesville, Georgia office today or simply call us at 678.343.2190 for more information. 

Eyelid Surgery Frequently Asked Questions

When it comes time to schedule your eyelid surgery, the growing anticipation will probably bring about some questions and concerns. Our main goal here at Garlich is to make you feel at ease before you get eyelid surgery and we strive to provide a comforting environment that fosters a sense of well-being and safety. The following are the most common eyelid surgery frequently asked questions to help give you an idea of what to expect before, during and after eyelid surgery.

Q: What happens at the initial consultation?
A: During the consultation, you will sit down with Dr. Garlich and discuss what changes you would like to occur. He will discuss your medical history and do a thorough examination of the skin and fat around your eyes. Dr. Garlich is dedicated to providing you with as much information as possible to help you make the best, most informed decision about your eyelid surgery. He will explain in detail:

• Your different options
• The procedure and its risks
• The kind of anesthesia required
• And costs associated with the procedure

Q: How long does the procedure take?
A: The duration of the surgery will vary from person to person, but typically lasts about 1 to 1-1/2 hours. If extensive surgery is being done, then it may last up to 2 hours, but rarely ever goes beyond that amount time.

Q: How is the eyelid surgery performed?


A: The traditional eyelid surgery is fairly predictable. At Garlich, we put the utmost care and precision into every surgery we do. For the eyelid surgery, an incision is made along the lash line where it creases, then excess fat, muscle and skin are removed. Afterwards, fine sutures are used to carefully close the incision. About three to five days after the procedure, the permanent stitches will be removed. Q: What can I expect after eyelid surgery?
A: Once the surgery is completed, Dr. Garlich will lubricate your eyes with ointment to reduce dryness in the area. Your vision will probably be temporarily blurry, but will clear up after a few days. At first, the incisions will likely be red and somewhat bumpy, but they will eventually become smooth and discreet. The stitches will be removed about a week after your surgery and any swelling or bruising that occurs will gradually subside depending on the rate of healing. Dr. Garlich is dedicated to providing you with the necessary support and care throughout the entire process, so continual communication is highly encouraged.

If you have a question you would like Dr. Garlich to answer, please contact us today or call our Gaiensville, Georgia office at 678.343.2190.  We look forward to hearing from you soon. 

Cosmetic Surgery and Men

Just like women, men do care about their appearance.  Although you don't hear men talking about their appearance too much, it is important to them.  As men get older, the need to look youthful has led to certain decisions such as cosmetic surgery.  Statistics from the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery tell us that cosmetic surgery in men is becoming more popular. 

Anyone, male and female, should be realistic about the outcome of cosmetic surgery.  Once you decide to have cosmetic surgery, it's important to do your homework so that you know what to expect.  Some tips before you decide to have cosmetic surgery include:

• Have a realistic view when it comes to your outcome.
• Understand all the risks involved.
• Consult with your cosmetic specialist and thoroughly cover all of your questions.

Some of the more popular cosmetic procedures for men include:

• Rhinoplasty
• Eyelid Surgery
• Liposuction
• Breast Reductions
• Hair Transplantation

At Garlich Facial Plastics, we want to make sure we help anyone that is looking for cosmetic surgery achieve not only a look they are going for, but an increase level of self-esteem and confidence.  Our philosophy is the same with every patient that enters our doors.  We want to match a healthy, full lifestyle and inner beauty with a natural, refreshed face.  Contact our Gainesville office today if you would like to learn more about cosmetic surgery for men or if you have questions about other cosmetic procedures we provide.  We look forward to hearing from you soon.  

What is Blepharoplasty?

Blepharoplasty, better known as an eyelid lift or eye surgery (or an eye lift), is a very popular cosmetic procedure that includes the upper, lower or both lids.  Because your eyes convey a wide range of emotions, it is important that you not only have an outward appearance you are confident in, but have an improved self-confidence.

Eyelid surgery, or a blepharoplasty, is the process of removing the extra skin and fat from around the eye area in a safe, measured manner without visible scaring.  The procedure entails minimal pain and as a result, usually requires only over-the-counter pain relievers.  The ideal candidates for eyelid surgery are non-smokers who are in good general health, but those are not a requirement.  Those that have excess or sagging skin around the eyes are also very good candidates for eyelid surgery.  This cosmetic procedure is also sought after by those that have "bags" under their eyes who want a more youthful appearance. 

Once a blepharoplasty has been performed, it is recommended that cool compresses are places over the eyes for 2-3 days.  It is also wise to avoid any strenuous activities during this time to allow for proper recovery.  By one week post-surgery, the vast majority of bruising and swelling has subsided and the patient may begin to wear make- up again.

Testimonials from Dr. Garlich Patients:
"From my very first contact with Dr. Garlich and his staff, I knew I was in capable and caring hands. Dr. Garlich's attention to detail and concern for patient satisfaction is second to none. The surgery has taken years off my appearance, and I couldn't be happier with my results. Thank you, Dr. Garlich!"  -- T.W.

What is Plastic Surgery

Plastic surgery, by definition, is concerned with the "repair, restoration, or improvement of lost, injured, defective, or misshapen body parts".  Plastic surgery, in many cases, is not only sought out because of the outward beauty a person is searching for, but it also helps boost a person's self-esteem and confidence.    

Contrary to popular belief, the word plastic doesn't implicate that the individuals receiving the surgery are going to get stuffed with synthetic substances. Rather, the word plastic, coming from the Greek word plastikos, actually means "able to be molded".

Two Main Types of Plastic Surgery

Cosmetic
This type of plastic surgery focuses primarily (if not fully) on the aesthetic appeal of an individual. People who are not happy with a certain body part or their looks in general are common participants of plastic surgery. Typically due to self-esteem, most people who receive cosmetic surgery don't have any pressing medical or health concerns and simply do it because they want to feel better about themselves. Some common cosmetic surgeries include:

• Breast augmentations
• Face lifts
• Botox
• Rhinoplasty

Reconstructive
This type of plastic surgery focuses primarily on improving functionality on top of aesthetics.  Regardless of why someone receives reconstructive plastic surgery, it's almost always a necessary measure to improve their health and quality of life. Some common reasons to get reconstructive surgery include:

• Deformities from birth
• Injuries from accidents
• Aftermath of diseases
• Health concerns

Public Acceptance or Rejection
Historically, people saw plastic surgery as something only the wealthy would do as an excessive way to improve their looks.  Because of the harsh stigma placed on this "luxury", as some people called it, individuals went to great lengths to hide their plastic surgery procedures. However, in more recent times, the idea of plastic surgery has become less of a taboo with many advocates arguing that plastic surgery is just like makeup - a means to improve oneself. In addition, plastic surgery can be invaluable to those that need it for reconstructive purposes due to health concerns or other deformities.