Houston Plastic Surgery Blog

Before tummy tuck surgery there are some steps you can take to make the recovery process easier and quicker. It is important to be prepared before tummy tuck surgery because you will not be able to move around freely for several days following the procedure. Most patients are able to return to their normal activity within two to three weeks after tummy tuck surgery, but preparing ahead of time can make the downtime much easier.

Some practical things to do before your tummy tuck surgery include:

• Prepare a comfortable place to rest, including pillows, television, phone, and food or drink nearby
• Prepare freezer ice packs in advance of the surgery to help with swelling
• Schedule someone to drive you to and from the surgery, and someone to stay with you for a few days after your tummy tuck
• Have comfortable, loose clothing laundered and ready to wear
• Stock your pantry and freezer with easy to heat meals for at least two weeks
• Just prior to your tummy tuck surgery, patients should also follow these guidelines:
• If you smoke, stop two to three week before the surgery.
• Do not take any aspirin or other anti-inflammatory drugs for at least twenty four hours before the surgery
• Keep stool softeners on hand in case your medications cause constipation
• Make sure all your prescriptions are filled immediately following the surgery

If you have more questions on how to prepare for tummy tuck surgery, please contact Houston, Texas plastic surgeon Dr. Leo Lapuerta to schedule a consultation.

What is liposuction?

Liposuction is a body contouring method that permanently removes fat cells from targeted areas of the body. Liposuction is performed using a stainless steel tube that is connected to a suction pump, which removes fat.

How do I know if liposuction is right for me?

Ideal candidates for liposuction have the following characteristics:

• Have reached ideal weight
• Are otherwise healthy, or not immune compromised
• Have stubborn fat deposits that do not respond to diet and exercise

How can liposuction help me?

Liposuction is not meant as a shortcut to the "perfect" body, because "perfect" is a highly subjective determination. Liposuction can help smooth and thin areas of the body that simply do not respond to diet and exercise. It can result in a slimmer, contoured body shape. As long as the patient does not gain excessive weight after the surgery, your new body shape is permanent.

What are the risks associated with liposuction?

Liposuction includes the same risks associated with any surgery. There are limits on how much fat can be removed in a twenty four hour period.

Is liposuction considered a weight loss tool?

No. Liposuction should never be considered a weight loss tool. Extremely obese patients generally do not benefit from liposuction.

If you have more questions about liposuction and you live in the Houston, Texas area, cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Leo Lapuerta can answer them for you. Please contact his office to schedule a consultation today.

The most commonly reported side effect for breast lift is a loss of sensation in the nipples and areola. This is usually a temporary condition that gradually goes away as the breast tissue heals from the trauma of surgery. A breast lift generally doesn't cause the patient intense pain, but pain and soreness is a natural part of the healing process. Most pain can be easily managed with prescription medication. As with any surgical procedure, there are other risks involved in breast lift.

Breast lift risks include:

• Asymmetrical breasts

• Scaring

• Uneven nipples

• Excessive Bleeding

• Infection

As with any surgery, a breast lift also involves the risks associated with general anesthesia. Most of these possible risks can be reduced if patients choose an experienced breast lift surgeon such as Dr. Leo Lapuerta, who can explain any risks involved in breast lift surgery. It is extremely important that patients establish an open and honest relationship with their surgeon, so that he or she can be fully apprised of all possible risks a particular patient might present.

If you are interested in learning more about breast lift surgery and you live in the Houston, Texas area, please contact Dr. Leo Lapuerta for a breast life consultation.

Ideal breast lift surgery candidates are emotionally stable, realistic about what a breast lift does, and do not plan any further pregnancies. A breast lift is meant to restore firmness and shape to sagging breasts, not create "perfect" breasts.

A breast lift may be performed when patients do not want breast implants because they are happy with the size of their breasts, but would like to return the breasts' shape and appearance. Some patients may choose to include implants with the breast lift procedure. An experienced breast lift surgeon such as Dr. Leo Lapuerta, will examine your breasts, measure them, and ask you about your expectations for the surgery.

Not every woman is a good candidate for breast lift surgery. A breast lift works best on smaller breasts. Heavier breasts are more subject to the force of gravity and loss of skin elasticity, therefore the results may not last as long.

Women planning to have more children may want to consider delaying their breast lift surgery. While there is no inference with breast feeding after a breast lift, the procedure may reverse itself after a pregnancy.

If you want more information plastic surgeons experienced in breast lift procedures and you live in the Houston, Texas area, please contact Dr. Leo Lapuerta for a consultation.

Breast augmentation refers to a plastic surgery procedures that change the size or shape of the breast. Breast implants and breast reduction fall into this category. Breast implants are most commonly used for breast enlargement. They may also be used to help augment other breast corrections, like asymmetrical breasts or to reconstruct breasts after mastectomy. The most popular type of breast implant is saline, although recently more patients are choosing silicone gel implants. The implants are placed either within the breast over the pectoral muscle, or underneath the pectoral muscle.

Breast lift refers to the surgical movement of the nipple and areola to a higher location on the chest. Breast lift is primarily used to correct sagging breasts or breasts that have lost their firmness and shape. Breast lifts do not necessarily involve breast augmentation, like breast implants, but every patient's needs vary.

The breast procedure you choose will depend on your needs and desires. If you are happy with the size of your breasts, a breast lift can help firm them and restore them to something closer to their original appearance.

If you are interested in learning more about breast lift or breast augmentation and live in the Houston/Pearland, Texas area, please contact plastic surgeon Dr. Leo Lapuerta for more information.

Choosing a tummy tuck surgeon can be a confusing process if you aren't sure what credentials to consider. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons has a few guidelines to keep in mind when considering a particular plastic surgeon for your tummy tuck procedure.

• A patient should look for a surgeon who:
• Is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
• Has five years of surgery training, with a minimum of two years plastic surgery training
• Operates only in accredited medical facilities
• Follows a strict ethical code
• Frequently participates in continuing education and understands the most recent developments in the field, including patient safety procedures.

It is also important to consider the aesthetic philosophy of a tummy tuck surgeon. A tummy tuck surgeon who considers how the procedure can improve the whole patient's appearance can achieve much better results than a surgeon who only considers one part of a patient's body at a time.

Finally, patients should consider the results of a surgeon's tummy tuck surgeries. Look for testimonials from tummy tuck patients and consider others' experiences when choosing a surgeon.

Dr. Leo Lapuerta, a Houston, Texas area plastic surgeon, fulfills all these criteria. Please contact his office to schedule a consultation about tummy tuck surgery.

As patients go through the process of choosing a plastic surgeon, it is important to realize that not all surgeons are equal. Before you decide to go through with breast lift surgery, it important to make sure that your breast lift plastic surgeon is experienced and certified. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons suggests that patients should look for surgeons who fulfill the following requirements:

• Operates in an accredited medical facility

• Has at least two years of specialized plastic surgery training

• Follows a stringent code of ethics

• Is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery

• Actively participates in continuing education and is fully educated on patient safety and innovations in the field

Once you have decided to undergo a plastic surgery procedure like breast lift, it is important to choose a cosmetic surgeon who is not only experienced, but who also has a solid aesthetic vision for each patient. While many plastic surgeons will focus on the aesthetics of any one procedure, a breast lift surgeon should also focus on the patient as a whole. Houston area cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Leo Lapuerta, takes this philosophy to heart.

If you are interested in learning more about breast lift surgery and you live in the Houston, TX area, please contact plastic surgeon Dr. Leo Lapuerta for more information and to schedule a consultation.

Facelifts are not a panacea, or intended to completely stop the aging process. Every facelift patient ages at his or her own rate, which directly impacts how long facelift results may last. Many plastic surgeons compare a facelift to turning back a clock. When you stop turning the time back, the clock begins to march forward once again. A facelift will result in a more youthful appearance, but predicting exactly how long that may last is impossible.

Many factors determine how long facelift results last. First, a patient's skin tone and elasticity impact how long skin will remain taut. Genetics plays a role in how fast or slow a person ages. Lifestyle factors, like smoking, can age skin faster.

In general, most patients can expect their facelift results to last five to ten years or longer, keeping in mind the normal aging process. Additional procedures, like certain skin treatment therapies, may help lengthen the results of a facelift. It's important to ask a qualified plastic surgeon all your questions about facelift results before you decide to undergo any procedure.

If you want to know more about facelifts, please contact Houston, Texas area plastic surgeon Dr. Leo Lapuerta to schedule a consultation.

The breast lift helps firm and reform breasts that sag or have stretched enough to change the size and shape of the areola. Houston plastic surgeon Dr. Lapuerta repositions the nipple and the areola on the chest and then removes extra skin or tissue.

A breast lift is done under general anesthesia, and involves the same risks anyone takes when they are put under anesthesia. The breast lift procedure itself can last from an hour to over four hours, depending on the individual patient's needs.

Immediately after a breast lift, patients wear a surgical bra or bandages for several days, until post-operative swelling and soreness reduce. The breasts do suffer some trauma from the movement of the areola and connected breast tissue. Soreness and swelling of the breasts is normal after breast lift surgery.

Dr. Lapuerta generally removes a patient's stitches within two weeks after breast lift surgery.

After the stitches and bandages are removed, patients generally wear a soft support bra twenty-four hours a day, for up to a month.

Breast swelling sometimes causes patients to lose some sensation in the nipple, but this fades as the breasts heal. Pain after breast lift surgery is generally mild. It is easily managed with prescription medication.

It is important to ask a qualified plastic surgeon about breast lift surgery before deciding on any procedure. Please contact Dr. Leo Lapuerta's Pearland, Texas office to learn more or to schedule a confidential consultation.

Recovery from facelift surgery can take a few days to several weeks, depending on the extent of the procedure. Many different facelift techniques are available to address the specific needs of each individual patient.

Recovery from a traditional full facelift may take six weeks or longer. Following the procedure, the face is loosely bandaged to help reduce swelling. A drainage tube is generally placed behind the ear to eliminate the buildup of fluid in the surgical site, a possible infection source. Swelling and skin discoloration is normal during facelift recovery.

The first two weeks following surgery, patients are ordered to restrict their movements and rest as much as possible. Many patients can return to normal activity after two weeks, but some parts of the healing process may take longer. Patients who undergo a procedure like an endoscopic facelift may only need a day or two to recover.

Some activities may be restricted for longer periods of time. Wearing earrings, using a hot tub or sauna, and drinking alcohol are all generally restricted for several months after facelift surgery.

Dr. Lapuerta fully briefs all his patients on after surgery care, and closely monitors each patient's recovery.

If you like to know more facelift surgery and you live in the Houston, Texas area, please contact cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Leo Lapuerta for more information or to schedule a consultation.

What is a breast lift?

A breast lift is a plastic surgery procedure that helps return breasts to their original shape and firmness. The most common form of the procedure, Mastopexy, changes the location of the nipple and the areola on the chest and removes excess skin.

Who benefits from a breast lift?

Women concerned about a change in the shape and firmness of their breasts, who are generally healthy, and do not plan any immediate pregnancies. Breast lift does not interfere with breast feeding, but a plastic surgeon experienced in breast lift procedures can help answer any questions.

How does a breast lift work?

The cosmetic surgeon makes an incision around the areola and beneath the breast. The areola and nipple are then shifted to a higher place on the chest, and the surgeon removes extra skin. Patients may or may not also go through breast augmentation at the same time, depending on breast size and the patient's needs.

What is the difference between breast augmentation and breast lift?

Breast Lift is intended primarily to correct sagging breasts. Patients may opt for breast augmentation as part of a breast lift procedure. Breast augmentation is intended primarily to change the size of the breast, most commonly with breast implants.

For more information on breast lift in the Houston area, please contact Dr. Leo Lapuerta's Pearland, Texas office.

One of the factors that cause patients to decide against tummy tuck surgery is the prospect of post-operative pain. While all patients will experience some post-operative pain, it can be greatly reduced with the use of a pain pump. A pain pump is a device that feeds a local anesthetic directly to the surgery site. The local anesthetic is non-narcotic, and will not interfere with your cognitive function.

The pain pump works by using small tubes that lead from a device directly to the surgical wound area. Immediately after you wake up in the recovery room, the pump will begin to administer anesthetic. Most patients wear the pump for three or four days following tummy tuck surgery.

Many tummy tuck patients find that the pain pump greatly reduces their pain, and speeds up the tummy tuck recovery process. This means that tummy tuck patients are ambulatory faster, which reduces the instances of blood clots in the legs. Many tummy tuck patients also find that the pain pump reduces post-surgery nausea. After the pain pump is removed, you may choose to use pain medication to manage any further pain.

If you want to know more about pain pumps and tummy tuck surgery, please contact Houston, Texas area plastic surgeon, Dr. Leo Lapuerta, to schedule a consultation.

Because facelifts require incisions into the skin, the procedure does leave permanent scars. Scarring also depends on many other factors. A patient's genetic makeup, skin elasticity, and lifestyle choices can all impact scarring after a facelift. Most scaring after facelifts happens around the ears and hairline, where the major incisions are placed for the procedure.

A skilled plastic surgeon like Dr. Leo Lapuerta can employ techniques that minimize scaring. By avoiding the removal of too much skin, a surgeon can eliminate the "windswept look" of some facelifts. Most facelift scars are concealed around natural skin folds, such as around the ears or under the hairline. If a patient is having skin removed from the neck and chin area, incisions may also be placed under the chin.

While it is impossible to predict exactly how your skin will respond to scarring after a facelift, you can use any other bodily scars as a guideline to possible color or depth. Keep in mind, however, that much depends on the skill of your surgeon and the techniques he uses. Dr. Lapuerta is an expert in facelifts and can help explain any risks of scarring associated with the procedure.

If you live in the Houston, TX area and want more information on facelift, please contact Dr. Leo Lapuerta's office to schedule a consultation.

Breasts change shape over a woman's lifetime for many reasons. The breasts are supported by semi-loose suspensory ligaments that allow for natural breast movement. Over time, these ligaments lose some of their strength. The skin also loses elasticity, which causes breasts to sag and lose their shape. Other major contributing factors include breast feeding, weight loss or gain, and gravity.

A breast lift is a plastic surgery procedure that helps restore breasts that lack firmness. The breast lift procedure also corrects nipples that have begun to point downward and also correct enlarged areola.

Mastopexy, the most common breast lift procedure, involves moving the nipple and areola to a higher position on the chest, then removing skin on the underside of the breast. Incisions are generally made around the areola and beneath the breast.

Patients may undergo a breast lift with or without the insertion of breast implants. The decision to include breast implants is dependent on the patients needs and is not always necessary to successfully perform a breast lift.

Cosmetic surgeon Dr. Leo Lapuerta is highly skilled and can help you make the best decision for about your breast lift, and help you understand your personal needs.

To find out if a breast lift procedure might be right for you, please contact Dr. Lapuerta's Houston area office.

Facelifts rank among the top five most popular plastic surgery procedures. A good facelift candidate should be healthy and realistic about his or her goals for the procedure. Perfection is rarely attainable, but facelift can help eliminate deep wrinkles and give your skin a more youthful glow.

• Generally, facelift candidates must meet the following criteria:
• Good general health. Patients with health complications, like hypertension or diabetes, may not be good facelift candidates
• Strong facial bone definition. Well defined bones help support the tightened facial muscles and redraped skin
• Some skin elasticity. Skin that maintains some of its elastic nature prior to facelift generally shows much better results
• Has excess skin. Facelift candidates who have loose skin that that can be tightened are able to remove wrinkles at the same time
• Don't smoke or can quit smoking for two weeks prior to surgery. Smokers have a slightly higher risk of complications during facelift surgery

Facelift is an invasive surgery that requires substantial healing time and recovery. As with any surgery, there are risks involved. Facelift candidates should take the time to educate themselves on the benefits, risk, and limits of facelift surgery.

If you have more questions about facelifts and you live in the Houston, Texas area, please contact Dr. Leo Lapuerta to schedule an initial consultation.

Choosing a facelift plastic surgeon doesn't have to be a confusing process. There are some basic requirements you should look for in a facelift plastic surgeon. Once you have found a plastic surgeon that fits these basic criteria, you should then consider less tangible factors, like bedside manner.

Training and Certification

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) recommends that patients look for well trained surgeons who have five years surgery training and two years plastic surgery training. The ASPS also recommends looking for a surgeon to regularly attends continuing education seminars, and understands the most recent developments in the field. One way you can ensure that your physician meets these standards is to look for American Board of Plastic Surgery certification and ASPS membership.

Ethics and Accessibility

It's important to pick a plastic surgeon like Dr. Lapuerta, Texas cosmetic surgeon, who communicates effectively and understands your individual needs. The ASPS recommends that all their members act as active partners with their patients through the facelift process. Part of this is a requirement that all members follow a strict ethical code. Dr. Leo Lapuerta believes in remaining accessible to his patients. He also believes that a doctor who understands each patient as a whole person can achieve much better results.

If you are interested in finding out more about facelift from an experienced plastic surgeon, please contact Dr. Leo Lapuerta's Pearland, Texas office to schedule a consultation.

Tummy tucks surgery is generally an extremely safe procedure. However, any surgery that requires general anesthesia carries risk. There are certain risks specifically associated with tummy tuck surgery.

Some general surgery risks include:

• Reactions to anesthesia or medication
• Bleeding or blood clots
• Lung complications, like pneumonia
• Infection
• Slow healing wounds

Risks considered higher in tummy tuck procedures include delayed wound healing. Most patients experience a decrease in pain and swelling six weeks after surgery. Patients who feel pain and swelling longer are slow healing. Patients who are younger and in good health will heal more quickly than older patients or patients who have health complications.

Risk of infection is a concern for any surgical procedure. Tummy tuck surgery requires sub dermal silicone drains to reduce the risk of infection. Seroma is a pocket of clear fluid that develops in the body following surgery. Drains are used to remove the seroma from the body. These drains lead from the wound site to suction bulbs. Dr. Lapuerta uses the bulbs to remove the seroma during the recovery period. Because every patient heals at different rates, drains are removed only when there is no further risk of seroma-related infection.

If you have further questions about tummy tuck surgery, please contact Houston, Texas area plastic surgeon Dr. Leo Lapuerta to schedule a consultation.

What is a Facelift?

Facelift is a plastic surgery procedure during which the facial muscles are tightened and the skin is redraped. Facelifts help eliminate deeper set wrinkles and fine lines that cannot be removed with other wrinkle removal methods.

What can facelift do for me?

Exact facelift results depend on the individual patient. Some patients may need more detailed work than others. Generally, though, facelift can help eliminate wrinkles and fine lines, giving you a more youthful appearance.

Can I get the same results with BOTOX®?

No. BOTOX® is an excellent method for dealing with fine lines, but it does not remove wrinkles or deeper set lines. Facelift is the most effective method for this purpose.

Who is a good candidate for facelift?

Good candidates for a facelift include anyone whose skin has started to sag but still maintains some of its elasticity. Good candidates also have a clearly defined facial bone structure.

How Long Do Facelift Results Last?

This depends on the individual patient and his or her genetic makeup, skin type, and personal habits. Some habits, like smoking, accelerate the aging process and therefore shorten the effectiveness of a facelift. Most patients can expect a facelift to last at least a decade.

If you live in the Houston or Pearland, Texas area and you want to know more about facelift, please contact Dr. Leo Lapuerta, Texas cosmetic surgeon, today to schedule a consultation.

A facelift is the most effective procedure for removing loose skin and eliminating wrinkles from the facial area. While some alternative treatments, like BOTOX®, work to eliminate fine lines, the facelift is the only effective procedure for removing deep facial lines. Facelift's effectiveness is evident through the large number of plastic surgery patients who choose the procedure.

During a facelift, Dr. Lapuerta makes incisions in inconspicuous areas to separate the skin from the underlying facial muscles. If necessary, he then tightens some of the facial muscles. Afterward, the skin is redraped and tightened over the muscle.

The best facelift candidates have loose or sagging skin, and very defined bone structure. Patients with less defined faces may choose to add other procedures to a facelift, like facial implants. Other criteria for good facelift candidates include good general health, lack of underlying complications, and evidence of healthy lifestyle choices.

Occasionally, patients combine facelift with procedures like an eyelid or forehead lift. Depending on your needs, Dr. Lapuerta may recommend a facelift combined with other skins treatments.

If you live in the Houston or Pearland, Texas area and you would like more information on facelifts, please contact Dr. Leo Lapuerta's office to schedule a consultation.

The results for breast augmentation are typically long lasting. The length of time your breast augmentation results will last depends on a few factors. If you maintain your current weight and do not gain or lose an excessive amount of weight, your breast augmentation results will be long lasting.

You will want to wait to have breast augmentation until after you are finished having children, through breast-feeding, and have lost all the weight you wish to lose. Your breasts may stretch and begin to sag if you opt to have breast augmentation before you are finished bearing children and breast-feeding. Pregnancy and breast-feeding change the breasts in shape and size. Excessive weight gain also changes the breasts in the same manner as pregnancy. Excessive weight loss usually leaves the breasts with excess skin that makes the breasts sag or droop.

Breast augmentation results will be long lasting if performed after you are within ten pounds of your target weight and after you finished bearing children. Remember to eat healthy, stay active, and monitor your weight. The healthier you are, the longer your results will last.

There are rare occurrences that may require another breast surgery. These occurrences are:

• One of the implants ruptures and deflates
• You experience capsular contracture
• An infection develops
• Extreme fluctuation in your weight
• Pregnancy

Please contact our breast surgeon with any questions you may have regarding breast augmentation or any other cosmetic surgery procedure. Dr. Lapuerta will be more than happy to discuss these procedures with you in a complimentary consultation. We serve patients in the Houston, Texas area.

A tummy tuck, or adominoplasty, is an extremely popular form of plastic surgery. Tummy tuck procedures flatten and restore the lower abdominal area, and slims the waistline. Ideal candidates for a tummy tuck have already reached their weight loss goals and have realistic expectations about what a tummy tuck may achieve. Most patients find that they are more than satisfied with their tummy tuck results.

During a tummy tuck, Texas cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Lapuerta, removes excess fat and skin, and tightens the abdominal muscles. An incision is made just above the pelvic bone. Then, he stretches and tightens the abdominal muscles, stitching them into place. Finally, excess skin and fat are removed before the skin is stretched back into place and sutured.

Tummy tuck surgery usually lasts between two and four hours, depending on the individual patient. The recovery process varies as well, lasting between two and four weeks. Patients are asked not to stand upright for the first week following a tummy tuck procedure. However, most patients are able to return to their normal routine after the first week, so long as it does not involve heavy lifting.

If you live in the Houston, Texas area and you have more questions about the tummy tuck, please contact Dr. Leo Lapuerta's plastic surgery clinic to schedule a consultation.

Choosing a liposuction plastic surgeon can sometimes be confusing for patients. It is important to keep certain criteria in mind when choosing a liposuction surgeon.

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons suggests patients consider plastic surgeons who:

• Only practice in accredited medical facilities
• Follow a strict ethical code
• Actively attend continuing education seminars
• Thoroughly understand patient safety
• Have least five years surgical training, with a minimum of two years in plastic surgery
• Are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
• Act as your partner through the liposuction surgery process

Patients should also consider the aesthetic approach of their plastic surgeon. A surgeon who considers how the whole body will respond to liposuction can achieve better results.

While there are many qualified liposuction plastic surgeons, it is important to find a doctor that does everything he can to guide you through the liposuction process. Choose a surgeon who is not only trained and experienced, but who will spend the time with you to truly understand your needs as whole person.

If you have questions about liposuction, please contact Dr. Leo Lapuerta's Pearland, Texas office to schedule a consultation.

When deciding to have breast augmentation surgery, it is important to choose a cosmetic surgeon who offers the safest anesthesia available. Houston cosmetic surgeon Dr. Lapuerta uses IV anesthesia for all of his cosmetic surgery procedures because it is the safest technique and provides patients with many benefits.

Dr. Lapuerta is one of only three surgeons in Houston who offer IV anesthesia to his patients. Dr. Lapuerta provides this type of cosmetic surgery anesthesia because of the many benefits it offers.

The Many Benefits of IV Anesthesia

The many benefits of IV anesthesia for breast augmentation include:

• Patients can breathe unassisted during the procedure
• Possible complication and risks greatly reduced
• The feeling of nausea and the act of vomiting are limited
• Patients are more aware and lucid after the procedure
• Most patients go home about one hour after their breast augmentation surgery
• Pain medications are administered through the same IV as the anesthesia
• Any risk of bleeding is drastically reduced
• Patients are completely unconscious throughout the duration of the procedure

Please contact our cosmetic surgery office to schedule a complimentary consultation for more information about IV anesthesia for breast augmentation and other cosmetic surgery procedures we offer.

Tumescent liposuction is a new technique that allows for more precise removal of fat deposits, creating smoother skin as a result. During tumescent liposuction, Dr. Leo Lapuerta, Texas cosmetic surgeon, injects a solution of anesthetic and saline into fatty deposits. These deposits swell up in the saline solution, become harder and firm. In fact, the word "tumescent" means "firm."

This process allows Dr. Lapuerta to more accurately map the exact areas of the body where fat deposits should be removed, without disturbing surrounding tissue. One of the major problems with early liposuction was the chance of disturbing tissue surrounding removed fatty deposits. This resulted in longer healing times, and more post-operative complications.

Tumescent liposuction results in a shorter recovery period, and a more precise, and artful, result. The skin is much smoother after tumescent liposuction than after traditional liposuction.

Other reasons liposuction candidates choose tumescent liposuction:

• The anesthetic used in the saline solution helps reduce the amount of pain medication a patient may need post operatively.
• Reduces the need to replace fluids intravenously after liposuction
• Reduces the amount of blood patients lose.

If you are interested in learning more about tumescent liposuction, please contact Houston, Texas area plastic surgeon Dr. Leo Lapuerta to schedule a consultation.

Breast augmentation is a positive life changing experience. You will notice many benefits after having the procedure. The benefits of breast augmentation include:

• Heightened self-esteem
• Enhanced confidence
• More motivation
• Increased feeling of femininity
• Youthful looking physique
• Clothing fits better

Your lifestyle will pretty much stay the same. You will be able to do everything and anything you did before your surgery or that you want to start doing. If you were active with sports or exercising before the procedure, you will be able to remain active. There are no limits to what you can do with breast implants.

Before having breast augmentation, you will want to consider your lifestyle when deciding on what size of breast implants to have. Women who are active in sports will want a smaller implant. Larger implants may interfere with certain sports. Your breast surgeon will help you decide which size of implant is right for you and which size fits into your lifestyle the best.

If you live in the Houston area, please contact our breast surgery office for a confidential, complimentary consultation about your goals for breast augmentation. Dr. Lapuerta will take the time to answer all of your questions.

All plastic surgery will involve some swelling, bruising, or scaring, and liposuction is no exception. It sometimes takes several months for post-operative swelling and skin "lumpiness" to reduce, revealing the full results of liposuction. The body needs time to adjust to its new contours.

Swelling
Some swelling after liposuction is normal and expected. Most patients find that all swelling reduces within six months after surgery, but swelling that persists longer is a serious concern. Changes in swelling could indicate a serious health problem, like thrombophlebitis, or vein inflammation.

Bruising
Bruising is an after effect of any invasive plastic surgery procedure. Many patients may feel light pain and tenderness around bruise sights, but this is generally short lived. After liposuction, bruising tends to reduce completely within a month.

Scars
One of the most attractive features of liposuction is that the technique leaves very small scars. However, the amount of scarring that might show after a liposuction depends on the patient's skin elasticity and genetic tendencies toward scarring. The amount of scarring also depends on your surgeon's experience and technique.

If you would like to discuss your interest with a liposuction expert, please contact Dr. Leo Lapuerta's Pearland, Texas facility to schedule a consultation.

Sometimes, no matter how much you diet or exercise, there are certain areas of the body that stubbornly hang onto fat. Many women are familiar with stomach bulges that appear after a pregnancy or weight gain and never disappear. If you have one or more fat deposits unaffected by diet and exercise, you may be a good candidate for liposuction.

Ideal liposuction candidates have the following characteristics:

• Have already reached their weight loss goals
• Remain realistic about what liposuction can do. Liposuction is not a short cut to the "perfect" body. Anyone who thinks they can achieve perfection through liposuction should reconsider his or her expectations
• Do not have any other major illness
• Are not excessively obese

Liposuction works best when used to remove localized areas of fat, like those that accumulate on thighs, hips, or stomach. Most liposuction candidates are of average size, but would like to contour and shape specific body areas. Liposuction should not be considered a treatment for obesity.

If you are interested in learning more about liposuction, please contact Houston, Texas area plastic surgeon Dr. Leo Lapuerta to schedule a consultation today.

Liposuction is the removal of fat deposits using a stainless steel tube (a cannula) attached to a vacuum mechanism. Plastic surgeon, Dr. Leo Lapuerta, inserts the cannula through small incisions in the skin. The cannula creates small tunnels through the fat that accumulates between the skin and muscle. The vacuum pump works to remove the fat. As the body recovers, these tunnels heal into smoother, flatter skin.

Liposuction can be performed anywhere on the body, but it is most commonly performed on the upper arms, stomach, buttocks, hips, and thighs. It is possible to perform liposuction on the face to create a thinner appearance.

Good candidates for liposuction have already reached their ideal weight. Liposuction does not tend to help patients who are overly obese. Most candidates are average weight, but have very specific areas of the body that could be contoured or reshaped.

Dr. Lapuerta believes liposuction candidates should educate themselves thoroughly before the procedure. It is important to have realistic expectations for liposuction results.

If you would like to know more about liposuction in the Houston, Texas area, please contact Dr. Leo Lapuerta for a consultation.

Many women want to know what is the best age for breast augmentation. The best age varies from person to person. Typically, the best age for breast augmentation is anywhere from 18 years old to 50 years old.

There are benefits and considerations for having breast augmentation at every age. Women who opt for this procedure can be placed in one of three age groups:

• 18 year olds
• Women 20 to 35
• Women 35 to 50

You will want to wait to have breast augmentation until after your breasts are fully developed. Some women’s breasts are not finished developing until their early 20s. Other women are fully developed by the time they reach 18 years old. It is not a good idea to have breast augmentation if you are younger than 18.

Women between the ages of 20 and 35 will want to postpone having breast augmentation until they are finished bearing children. Breast implants may stretch the breasts during pregnancy and may hinder the ability to breast-feed.

Women between the ages of 35 and 50 are at a great age for breast augmentation. These women’s breasts are finished developing and they are typically past childbearing years. Also, these women tend to have a better understanding of the procedures benefits and possible complications.

If you live in the Houston, Texas area please contact our breast surgery office for more information about breast augmentation and if now is the best time for you.

No matter how hard a person exercises or diets, there are certain areas of the body that are particularly resistant to fat loss. Some otherwise healthy people find that these fat deposits prevent them from achieving the look they want. Liposuction is a good option for patients who have reached weight loss goals but would like to remove specific fat deposits.

While it is possible to perform liposuction anywhere on the body, the most popular areas include the face, arms, thigh, abdomen, knees and buttocks. Liposuction can also be performed in conjunction with other procedures, like tummy tuck or face lift.

Liposuction helps shape the body by permanently removing fat cells. This results in a smoother, leaner body. Patients immediately see results after liposuction surgery. As post-operative swelling reduces, results become even clearer.

It should be stressed that liposuction is not a substitute for diet and exercise, and it is not recommended as a weight loss option for the extremely obese. However, some moderately obese patients may use the procedure for specific body contour problems.

If you live in the Houston, Texas area and would like to find out more about liposuction, please contact Dr. Leo Lapuerta, Texas cosmetic surgeon, to schedule a consultation.

The recovery time for breast augmentation may vary anywhere from 3 to 6 months. Your recovery time will depend on a few factors:

• How soon you return to work
• How closely you follow your post-operative instructions
• Where the breast implants were placed
• What type of incision was used

You may return to work after a week following your breast augmentation. You may want to take up to two weeks off from work, but the decision is entirely up to you. Take more time off from work if your work requires any heavy lifting or strenuous activities.

Your post-operative breast augmentation instructions will include:

• Bed rest for the first several days
• Wearing a surgical support bra to keep the breasts from moving
• Taking showers and avoiding baths
• No exercising or heavy lifting for several weeks

The placement of the breast implant will affect your recovery time. Your recovery time will be shorter if the implants were placed above the muscle. Below the muscle placement of breast implants requires a longer recovery period because the implants are placed deeper in the breast.

The breast augmentation incision type affects the recovery time as well. There are three types of incisions:

• Inframammary
• Periareolar
• Transaxillary

Please contact Dr. Lapuerta for more information about the recovery time for breast augmentation.

Choosing the right size of breast implant may be difficult. You have to consider many things before deciding which size is right for you. You will want to think about:

• What your goals are for the surgery
• How you want your clothing to fit
• What shape your body is

Breast augmentation with breast implants will improve your appearance by adding volume to your breasts. The size of implants will determine how much volume is added to your breasts. If you choose an implant size that is too large, your breasts may not fit into the style of clothing you wish to wear. If your implant size is too small, you may wish to have another procedure performed to increase the size.

Please schedule a confidential consultation with Dr. Lapuerta to help you decide which breast implant size is right for you. He will listen to all of your goals, your lifestyle choices, and the style of clothing you want to wear. He will guide you with your decision on choosing the right breast implant for you.

Dr. Lapuerta will show you before and after breast augmentation photos of women with similar body shapes and types. This will help you see how different sized breast implants improve the appearance of women who are similar to you.

Please contact our office today to learn more about breast augmentation options best for you. We serve clients in the Houston, Texas area.

Tummy tuck surgery is one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures. A tummy tuck tightens the upper and lower abdominal area, and slims the waistline. The procedure itself lasts between two and four hours, depending on the individual patient's needs and the extent of the procedure. A mini-tummy tuck, a less extensive surgery, takes a little less time. A full tummy tuck procedure takes a little longer.

Full recovery after a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) procedure takes between two and four weeks. Patients usually spend three to four days in a bent position, with strict instructions not to stand upright. The abdomen is normally bruised and swollen for several days after the tummy tuck, but the pain is usually not too severe.

As the incision sites heal, the tummy tuck patient can then gradually return to an upright position and begin walking within a week. Most patients return to work in two to four weeks, so long as they are not required to lift or spend extended time standing. Patients should generally avoid any activity that puts strain on the abdominal muscles.

If you would like your questions about the tummy tuck answered by a board certified surgeon, and you live in the Houston, Texas area, please contact Dr. Leo Lapuerta to schedule a consultation.

How safe is BOTOX®?

BOTOX® treatment consists of the injection of a very small amount of a toxin into the muscles of your face, under skin that is affected by fine lines and wrinkles. When administered by an experienced, qualified cosmetic surgeon, BOTOX® is the safest cosmetic treatment available.

Who is a candidate for BOTOX® treatment?

Anyone who has ever looked in the mirror and noticed fine lines and wrinkles taking over is a good candidate for BOTOX® treatment. BOTOX® can reduce the appearance of aging for almost anyone, and individuals between the ages of 25 and 95 can find benefit from its use.

Why should I consider BOTOX®?

BOTOX® is more than just a cosmetic treatment. Most people think they look older than they feel, but feeling like you look younger can have a positive effect on your energy and outlook on your day-to-day routine. You may think of using BOTOX® just so other people will think you look younger, but you may be surprised to find that it actually helps you feel younger, too.

Can I and my friends have BOTOX® treatments together?

With the widespread acceptance of cosmetic surgery and cosmetic treatments, people are starting to talk about BOTOX® as their favorite form of age-defying therapy. Like any other activity, BOTOX® can be more fun with a group of friends. Find out more about this option at our BOTOX® Parties page.

If you are in the Houston area of Texas and would like to learn more about the benefits of BOTOX®, please contact experienced plastic surgeon Dr. Leo Lapuerta today.

If you are wondering why you should consider BOTOX®, chances are good you are either under the age of 25, or are skeptical about the affect BOTOX® can have on your appearance. If the latter describes you, here are some events where BOTOX® might not only improve your appearance, but also your outlook on the occasion:

• School reunions
• Weddings
• Business presentations
• Holiday parties
• Family photos

Not everyone over the age of 25 needs BOTOX®, but anyone over the age of 25 can benefit from BOTOX®. If you remember the moment when you first looked into a mirror and were shocked to notice fine lines around your eyes, on your brow, or around your mouth, you are a candidate for BOTOX® treatment.

Any time you will be addressing a group or likely to have your photo taken, the last thing you need to be worrying about is the appearance of aging caused by fine lines and wrinkles. Not only does BOTOX® remove the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, helping you look younger, but the tingling, numbing effect of BOTOX® on the muscles it affects can help you relax before a potentially stressful event.

To learn more about why BOTOX® may be the right option to give your appearance that little boost, please contact Dr. Leo Lapuerta, serving Houston and the surrounding area in Texas.

If you have heard the phrase "cosmetic surgery" you have probably heard the word BOTOX®. But BOTOX® is usually explained in terms of what it does; BOTOX® removes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles to help you look younger and fresher. Why it does so requires a little more explanation.

BOTOX® works on a deeper level than facial creams and scrubs, which only affect the top one or two of your seven layers of skin. BOTOX® surpasses your skin altogether and works on the muscles of your face.

Tension in your facial muscles is what creates fine lines and wrinkles over time. Squinting, jaw clenching, and frowning all contribute to the lines around your eyes, forehead, lips, and neck that contribute to the appearance of aging. All this tension is perpetuated by muscles that remain tense, even when we think we are relaxed.

BOTOX® has the effect of relaxing those muscles by allowing tiny doses of toxins to numb the muscles, often making you feel more relaxed after BOTOX® treatment. In essence, the muscles you did not realize you were using are finally allowed to rest.

Please contact Dr. Leo Lapuerta, serving the Houston area of Texas, to learn more about how BOTOX® can lift the appearance of lines, wrinkles, and years off your face.

While Houston - area cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Leo Lapuerta always strives to minimize scaring, all tummy tuck patients will experience some scarring. Scars are usually placed just above the pelvic bone but below the upper bikini line. Therefore, tummy tuck scars are easily concealed.

During tummy tuck surgery, Dr. Lapuerta will make two incisions. The first incision is horizontal and, in the case of a full tummy tuck, stretches from hip bone to hip bone. The second incision is made around the navel. It is not uncommon for scarring after tummy tuck surgery to actually worsen three to six months after the procedure. Scarring after tummy tuck surgery generally then improves by flattening, smoothing, and lightening in color.

An experienced tummy tuck surgeon can help you understand the best way to care for your skin, and any steps you can take to help minimize scarring. Talking to Dr. Lapuerta about your concerns regarding scarring after tummy tuck is an essential step.

If you are interested in learning more about tummy tuck and you live in the Houston/Pearland, Texas area, please contact Dr. Leo Lapuerta for more information and to schedule a consultation.

The first thing anyone wants to know when they are considering a new health or beauty regime is always, "Is it safe?" Patients and doctors alike have been asking this question about BOTOX® since it was approved for cosmetic use by the FDA in 2001.

The simple answer to the question of Is BOTOX® Safe? is a resounding yes. However, like most questions, the truthful answer is not a simple one. BOTOX® is safe when it is administered by Houston cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Lapuerta in a clean environment. Other fillers which may be called "Botox" are not to be confused with BOTOX® and may be dangerous or ineffective.
Because we know that your safety and health are as important as your appearance, Dr. Leo Lapuerta only uses BOTOX® brand for BOTOX® treatments. Your BOTOX® injections administered by Dr. Leo Lapuerta will be in a clean, professional environment, and safeguarded by his experience and passion for your safety.

When appropriately administered, BOTOX® can remove years off your appearance and help you look as young and invigorated as you feel. Trusting a qualified, experienced cosmetic surgeon, like Dr. Leo Lapuerta, will ensure that your next BOTOX® treatment is safely and effectively administered.

To find out more about BOTOX® or other cosmetic treatments offered in the Houston, Texas area, please contact Dr. Leo Lapuerta today, and insure that your next cosmetic procedure will be a safe one.

We know that between work and family, what you have to do and what other people want you to do, the only time you have to yourself may be the precious minutes you have between the time you leave work and get home. But did you know that you can take those minutes and use them to turn back the clock on your appearance?

Dr. Leo Lapuerta offers BOTOX® treatments you can indulge in after work, between running errands, or on your way home from the gym. More that stopping for a cup of coffee or ice cream, BOTOX® will help you appear younger and fresher, without adding calories to your body.

Most first-time BOTOX® patients are surprised at just how quick treatment is, and how easily the fine lines and wrinkles disappear. And rather than having to take time out of work or your busy morning schedule to improve your appearance, you can have BOTOX® treatments on your way home from work. Dr. Leo Lapuerta even offers BOTOX® parties, to help get you and your friends ready for the weekend.

To learn more about having BOTOX® after work in the Houston, Texas, area, please contact Dr. Leo Lapuerta today, and find out how you can look younger without altering your schedule.

Would you love to leave work for your lunch break and return an hour later looking fresher, younger, and more relaxed? Most people wish they had a magic wand they could wave and turn back the aging clock in just a few minutes. Lunchtime BOTOX® can do just that.

Dr. Leo Lapuerta offers patients in Houston, Texas, the ability to take their lunch hour and do more with it than simply eat lunch. Instead, you can return to your office looking and feeling younger and invigorated.

The actual process of receiving lunchtime BOTOX® treatment takes relatively little time, especially compared to a skin peel or exfoliating treatment, and is an outpatient procedure. A few injections of BOTOX® can wipe not only small lines and wrinkles but also the appearance of years away from your face. Both men and women are enjoying the benefits of lunchtime BOTOX® and then returning to finish the rest of the day at work.

If you have already received BOTOX® treatments in the past, you already know about its benefits and have seen it brush away the fine lines and wrinkles that make you look tired, haggard, and older than you feel. Now you can enjoy that same affect between taking phone calls and working with clients.

To learn more about where you can receive lunchtime BOTOX® in the Houston, Texas area, please contact Dr. Leo Lapuerta today.

Dance parties, boating parties, makeover parties; these are all familiar concepts today because at some point people noticed that any activity is more fun when you do it with friends. Skin care is no different.

Most people are new to the concept of BOTOX® parties, but even if you have never heard those two words paired up before, you can probably guess the idea without thinking too hard about it. You and your friends already know about BOTOX®, but did you know you and your friends can explore its benefits together?

Many men and women may feel uncertainty before that first step into the world of BOTOX®, and having a friend there who not only has used BOTOX® in the past, but who will receive it at the same party can help you understand how simple receiving BOTOX® injections really is.

Dr. Leo Lapuerta offers BOTOX® parties hosted at his office by special appointment, so you and four of your friends can enjoy the benefits or explore the options of BOTOX® together. If you are in Houston, Texas, and would like to learn more about how to set up a BOTOX® party, please contact Dr. Leo Lapuerta today, and find a new and exciting way to keep yourself and your friends looking young.

If you are considering breast augmentation or another plastic surgery procedure, you may wonder what restrictions you should observe after the procedure. The exact restrictions in your case will depend on your procedure and your health, and plastic surgeon Dr. Leo Lapuerta, Jr. will give you detailed instructions about exactly what restrictions you should observe after your surgery. Failure to follow these instructions can put your health and your results at risk.

During the immediate postoperative period, you can expect to be sore and should count on taking a day or two devoted exclusively to recovery. You can begin to resume normal activity over the next few days as you feel up to them and your incisions begin to heal. A recent survey revealed that women resumed driving after 5.4 days, went back to work an average of 7.5 days, and felt "back to normal" an average of 27.8 days after surgery, but personal results vary.

After healing is complete, there are no real restrictions on you as a result of your breast implants. They will function like natural breasts and you can enjoy all the activities you enjoyed before - and often enjoy them more.

If you would like to learn more about breast augmentation, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Lapuerta today.

Cosmetic surgery is not for everyone. It is imperative that you examine your reasons and motivations for seeking a cosmetic surgeon, and ensure that those reasons are valid and obtainable. Cosmetic surgery can help you improve your self-image, which is the way you think people see you, but it cannot give you self-esteem.

At times, your physical appearance may affect how others perceive you, a perception that may or may not change with cosmetic surgery. A good dose of self-esteem must be in place before most surgeons will agree to an operation. In most cases correcting minor image problems does more for your self-image, then for other people's actual perceptions.

Adults who are in good general health and do not smoke are the best candidates for surgery. Many procedures a cosmetic surgeon provides are meant to address issues as we age, wrinkles, sagging skin, and exercise resistant pockets of fat. People seeking cosmetic surgery should have a realistic view of what can be accomplished. It is important to discuss your aesthetic goals with a qualified physician with plenty of experience. The doctor you choose should have several case studies with before and after photos available to give you a good idea of possible outcomes.

Because of the permanent nature of many cosmetic procedures, it is important that you have a clear understanding of how the surgery will affect your looks. Even when you are psychologically prepared, it may still take some time to adjust to your new appearance.

When considering cosmetic procedures in the Houston area, please contact Dr. Lapuerta today to schedule and initial consultation.