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If you have a family history of heart disease, you have an increased risk of developing the disease as well. However, by taking steps such as exercising and choosing healthy foods, you can change your lifestyle and lower your risk of heart problems. Doctors may ask about your family history of heart disease to better diagnose your condition. Genetics play an important role in how diseases and health issues can be passed down through families.

Once your doctor knows your family history, they can make a more informed decision about any heart-related conditions you may have. One of the ways to determine how well your heart works is with cardiac stress testing. A stress test lets professionals see how much blood your heart pumps when it’s under stress. This typically involves patients walking on a treadmill and moving faster at certain intervals to determine how much stress can be placed on your heart before you must stop exercising.

Family History

A family history of high blood pressure is twice as common in the hypertensive population. Hypertension and hyperlipidemia are strong risk factors in predicting the development of coronary disease in family members. Inherited cardiovascular diseases may only involve the cardiovascular system. Regarding family history, conditions may be genetically determined in some individuals but not in others.

Additionally, doctors may recognize genetic diseases associated with abnormal electrocardiograms or arrhythmias that affect the vascular system. Doctors can determine the cause of specific factors based on family history and information the patient provides.

Signs of Heart Disease

According to the National Library of Medicine, family history of cardiovascular disease can be presented in a variety of ways. For instance, family members with known heart or vascular disease can impact you genetically. Family members suffering from the following may experience an increased risk of heart disease:

• Heart failure
• High cholesterol levels
• High fat levels
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Aneurysm
• Heart attack
• Stroke
• Coronary thrombosis
• Irregular or racing heart
• High blood sugar
• Congenital disabilities affecting the heart
• Smoking

If you experience symptoms related to heart conditions, talk with your family members to learn whether they have any cardiovascular issues. Understanding your family members’ conditions can help you and your doctor better understand your health issue.

Ways to Prevent Heart Disease

There are a variety of ways for you to lower your risk of developing heart disease, even if you have a strong family history of cardiovascular conditions. Some of the ways to lower your risk of heart disease include:

• Choose healthy food options such as fresh fruits and vegetables
• Exercise regularly
• Receive quality sleep
• Refrain from smoking
• Limit alcohol intake
• Monitor your health by checking your blood pressure and cholesterol levels
• Take medications as prescribed by your doctor
• Eat foods high in fiber and low in saturated fats
• Manage stress
• Receive regular health screening tests
• Prevent infections by staying up-to-date with vaccines

A healthy lifestyle can help keep your blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure levels normal. A healthy lifestyle can also lower your risk for heart disease and heart attack.

Find Treatment Today

If you have a family history of heart disease, speak with a cardiologist at Apex Cardiology to learn about your treatment options. If you want to prepare for potential heart issues due to your family history, consider taking proactive steps by getting routine heart check-ups. Doctors can run numerous tests to assess your heart health.

Consider Los Angeles Cardiologists if you are experiencing chest pain or heart-related problems. Our doctors have extensive experience caring for patients. Schedule a consultation today and learn more.

Breathing through your nose should feel effortless no matter what you are doing. However, for some people, it isn’t. Several issues can affect your ability to breathe effectively and efficiently through your nose. A deviated septum, chronic congestion, or prior nasal trauma can create challenges. This can make daily life a struggle, especially for active people. Effective treatment options can address the issue. You may wonder: Does septoplasty improve breathing? Below is helpful information about the procedure and why it may be right for you.

Does Septoplasty Improve Breathing?

Before surgery, many patients want to understand how effective septoplasty is. The procedure corrects structural problems inside the nose. This can improve breathing. Septoplasty straightens the septum, which is the wall of cartilage and bone that separates each nasal passage. When the septum is crooked, it restricts airflow. This can affect one or both nasal passages. After healing from surgery, patients report improvement in nasal breathing.

Results depend on your surgeon’s experience and expertise. This is why it is important to work with a top surgeon at the leading plastic surgery center. A thorough evaluation is necessary to determine if you are a good candidate for the surgery. In some cases, additional treatment is necessary. A skilled surgeon can assess your symptoms and create a customized treatment plan based on your needs.

Common Causes of a Deviated Septum

A deviated septum can make daily life challenging. Treatment can effectively address the issue. To determine if septoplasty is right for you, a surgeon will need to assess the cause of your deviated septum. Below are some common causes.

Congenital Deviation

Some patients are born with a septum that grows unevenly. This type of deviation is often present from childhood. This can occur even without injury or trauma to the nose. While the issue may develop in childhood, symptoms may not become noticeable until adulthood. This is because nasal tissue continues to change as you age.

Trauma or Injury

Trauma or injury during birth, childhood, or even adulthood can cause issues with the septum. Assisted deliveries can affect nasal structure. Pressure on the nose while passing through the birth canal can also shift the septum. Trauma or injury to the septum during birth or childhood is often not noticeable. Breathing problems often develop in later childhood or adulthood.

Trauma or injury during adulthood can also cause issues. Common causes include car accidents, physical sports, or even a fall. As with birth-related or childhood trauma, these symptoms may develop much later after the accident.

Aging and Cartilage Changes

The septum can shift throughout your lifetime. It is not a static body part. As you get older, nasal cartilage loses some of its structural support. This can cause the septum to shift from the center. This often happens gradually, so you may not notice the issue right away. If you notice breathing issues develop as you age, consult with a plastic surgeon.

Chronic Nasal Inflammation

Allergies, sinus infections, and environmental irritants can cause long-term inflammation. This can affect the tissue surrounding the septum. Repeated swelling and healing can alter the shape of the nasal structure over time. If you leave allergies and sinus infections unaddressed, you may develop a deviated septum. The same is true for consistent exposure to certain environmental irritants.

What to Expect from Septoplasty

Septoplasty involves repositioning or removing the deviated cartilage and bone in the septum. This widens the nasal passages and reduces airflow resistance. Patients often report improved breathing after the surgery heals. They also notice reduced snoring and better airflow during intense physical activity. Because the nasal obstruction has been removed, sleep quality also improves.

The surgery generally takes one to two hours. This depends on the complexity of your case. Surgical time may take longer if you are getting more than one procedure at the same time. Patients often undergo general anesthesia. However, some may be under light sedation with local anesthesia. We will discuss this at your consultation so you are prepared on the day of surgery. Septoplasty is performed on an outpatient basis. After a short post-op observation, you can go home.

Top Plastic Surgery Center

Breathing issues can make daily life challenging. If you need treatment, contact Dr. Brent and his team today to schedule your consultation!

Natural aging, genetics, and gravity all take a toll on the neck. This includes loose skin, muscle banding, and fat accumulation under the chin. These changes can make the neck appear years older than the rest of the face. When you notice the signs of aging on the neck, cosmetic intervention is often necessary. Topical products cannot address these structural changes. A skilled plastic surgeon can help restore a firmer, more youthful neck. You may wonder, am I a good candidate for a neck lift? Below is helpful information about the procedure and why it may be right for you.

Am I a Good Candidate for a Neck Lift?

A neck lift addresses sagging skin, excess fat, and weakened muscle bands in the neck. Many patients wonder if a neck lift is right for them. Several physical characteristics point to the need for the procedure. Below are some of the common signs a neck lift is right for you.

Sagging Skin

Skin loses its natural elasticity with age. Collagen and elastin begin to decline as early as your 20s. This makes skin less firm and more prone to sagging and wrinkles. As a result, gravity pulls the skin downward over time. This creates a loose, crepey appearance beneath the chin and along the jawline. This can make you look much older than you are. It can also negatively impact your self-confidence. Early intervention is key to ensure natural-looking results that blend seamlessly. A neck lift is often combined with a facelift or liposuction to enhance results.

Neck Bands

One telltale sign that it is time for a neck lift is visible vertical bands on the neck. Vertical bands can form in the center of the neck as you age. This occurs when the platysma muscle separates and weakens over time. These bands become more visible when you speak, smile, or turn your head. A neck lift directly addresses these bands. This leaves the neck looking smoother and more youthful.

Chin Fullness

Fat can accumulate beneath the chin, creating what many patients call a double chin. This fullness does not always respond to diet or exercise. This can happen even in patients who maintain a healthy weight. Genetics often plays a key role in submental fat. This can be extremely challenging for those who maintain healthy lifestyle habits. A neck lift can address the signs of aging on the neck. However, combining a neck lift with liposuction can resolve stubborn submental fat.

What to Expect from a Neck Lift

The process of getting a neck lift starts with a consultation. The plastic surgeon will evaluate your neck and skin laxity. They will also review your medical history and assess your current health. Share any medications you are on and whether you are a smoker. You may need to stop taking certain medications and supplements before surgery. You will also have to stop smoking before and after surgery. This helps reduce your risk of complications during and after surgery.

Once it has been determined that you are a good candidate, you will receive pre-operative instructions. Read these right away and follow them as closely as possible. If you have any questions, consult with your surgeon right away.

Neck Lift Procedure

Most neck lifts are performed under local anesthesia with sedation. In some cases, we use general anesthesia. This is often when a neck lift is combined with a face lift or liposuction. We will discuss this at your consultation so you are prepared for surgery. Anesthesia and sedation keep you comfortable throughout the procedure.

Once you are sedated, the incisions are strategically placed. They are often placed behind and beneath the ears to reduce visible scarring after surgery. A small incision is made under the chin to access the platysma muscle. The surgeon tightens the muscles and removes excess skin and fat. The entire surgery takes roughly two hours, depending on the case’s complexity. It may take longer if you combine a neck lift with a face lift or liposuction. Once the surgery is complete, the surgeon closes the sutures. You are then transferred to an observation area before you are cleared to go home.

Recovering from a Neck Lift

Recovering from a neck lift takes roughly two weeks. Each patient is different, so be patient. Right after surgery, you will notice swelling, bruising, and discomfort. This is completely normal after surgery. Symptoms will gradually subside as you heal. Take your prescribed medications as directed. You should also keep your head elevated, even when you sleep. A cold compress can also help reduce swelling.

Rest is essential for the first few days. Taking your time can promote healing and speed recovery. Follow your surgeon’s aftercare instructions as closely as possible. When you feel up to it, light walking around the house can help as early as the first few days. Gentle movement not only promotes blood circulation, but also supports optimal healing. You will have a follow-up appointment after surgery. Be sure to attend, as your surgeon will assess your recovery progress. Ask any questions that you have at this appointment as well.

Most patients are back to their normal routine within two weeks. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for at least one month after surgery. Your surgeon will clear you for intense physical activity when you are ready. Doing too much too soon can impact your recovery timeline and your long-term results. Be sure to talk with your surgeon about how to protect your long-term results. A neck lift is a permanent procedure, but you do need to take reasonable steps to maintain your results.

Leading Plastic Surgeon

Natural aging and poor lifestyle habits can age the neck. If you want to reverse the signs of aging, contact the team at Elise Min Plastic Surgery today to schedule your consultation!

If you experience chest pain that is severe and sudden or presents as a form of crushing or squeezing, you should go to the emergency room immediately. If chest pain isn’t isolated and spreads to your back, shoulders, one arm, or jaw, getting to an emergency room as fast as possible can be the difference between a heart attack and the prevention of one. Although we each may have a different pain tolerance, the type of chest pain experienced will be extreme and should alarm you enough to make a quick visit to the emergency room.

Thankfully, there have been great advances in medicine and the treatment of heart conditions. Helpful forms of treatment include advanced heart imaging. With this form of imaging, doctors can get a better glance at your heart and cardiovascular system, determining if blood flow is normal. Tests can also inform doctors if you are suffering from a heart attack.

Types of Chest Pain

Unfortunately, chest pain is a symptom of a variety of medical conditions. Even though a person experiences chest pain, it may be completely unrelated to the heart or cardiovascular system. For instance, a person having a panic attack may feel heavy pain in the chest for a prolonged period of time. However, the pain will ultimately dissipate.

Heartburn and certain esophageal disorders can create chest pain. Those who recently engaged in strenuous physical activity may develop sore or pulled muscles that can mimic chest pain. In addition, lung diseases such as pneumonia can cause chest pain due to a severe cough.

Testing Methods

According to the National Library of Medicine, chest pain is the second-leading cause of emergency department visits among adults in the United States. This accounts for nearly 11 million encounters each year. There are a variety of traditional methods for determining a patient’s condition. Some of these methods consist of:

• Physical exams
• The use of diagnostic tools
• Cardiac biomarkers
• An echocardiogram

There are several types of echocardiograms:

• Stress Echocardiogram: A test performed before and after stress is placed on the heart through exercises or medications that make the heart beat more rapidly.
• Transthoracic Echocardiogram: This test provides views of the heart as well as different locations on the chest or abdominal wall.
• Doppler Echocardiogram: A test to examine the way in which blood flows through the heart, the surrounding blood vessels, and the heart valves.
• Transesophageal Echocardiogram: This test involves a probe inserted down the esophagus and provides higher-resolution images of the patient’s heart due to the probe’s position.

Once your condition is determined, doctors will begin to work on a treatment plan.

When Patients Are Admitted to the ER

Patients may be admitted to the emergency room for several reasons due to chest pain history. Those with the following should be admitted to the emergency room right away:

• Known coronary disease
• Ischemic changes on the electrocardiogram
• Possible pericarditis
• Possible aortic dissection
• Multiple cardiac risk factors such as hypertension or diabetes
• Family history of premature coronary artery disease

Understanding the different types of chest pain can help you better identify severe pain when it occurs.

Find Treatment Today

If you struggle with chest pain or cardiovascular issues, reach out to Apex Cardiology to learn about our treatment options. Personal attention is given to each patient, enhancing the care they receive. Not only can doctors treat certain conditions, but they can also run tests to better understand the health concern.

Our cardiologists proudly serve the Los Angeles area. Reach out to us today to speak with one of our experts who can explain our treatment plans for individuals experiencing cardiovascular symptoms. Schedule a consultation to speak with one of our doctors, who will assess the severity of your condition and offer solutions.

Neck and facial aging often occur in tandem for most people. Facial aging includes sagging skin, fine lines, wrinkles, and loose jowls. The neck also shows signs of aging. This includes horizontal lines, banding, and sagging skin. These signs of aging can be accelerated by excess phone usage, often referred to as “tech neck.” A face lift addresses the lower two-thirds of the face. A neck lift addresses the neck from the chin down. You may wonder, can you combine a neck lift with a facelift? Below you will find helpful information about both procedures and why they are right for you.

Can You Combine a Neck Lift with a Facelift?

Aging rarely affects the face or neck alone. In fact, they often develop at the same time. This is because the skin on the neck and face is often exposed to the sun. Patients often wonder if they can combine cosmetic procedures. Many patients pursue more than one procedure at a time. This is especially beneficial when you combine a face lift and a neck lift. Undergoing two treatments during a single surgery offers convenience, cost savings, and one unified recovery period.

Combining the two procedures offers comprehensive results. The neck and lower face share connected muscle and skin structures. Treating both areas together produces smoother, more natural-looking results. A face lift addresses sagging jowls and improves the jawline. A neck lift addresses loose skin, banding, and fullness beneath the chin. Combining both results blends the results seamlessly. Without both procedures, the results can often appear as a mismatch.

Why Choose to Combine Cosmetic Procedures

Choosing to combine procedures comes with several advantages. These are both practical and aesthetic. If you are interested in combining a face lift and neck lift at the leading plastic surgery center, consider the following benefits.

One Recovery Period

Undergoing two procedures separately means two rounds of downtime, swelling, and restricted activity. Combining a neck lift with a face lift condenses recovery into one single period. This is especially beneficial for those with busy lifestyles. The recovery process after the combined procedures is roughly two weeks. Each patient is uniquely different, so times can vary. Swelling and bruising subside within the first few weeks as well. Getting a neck lift and face lift at the same time cuts your recovery time in half.

Cost Advantages

Scheduling one combined surgery often reduces overall costs. Two separate procedures involve two facility fees, two anesthesia fees, and two surgical fees. When you combine two cosmetic procedures, it reduces the overall cost by a substantial amount. It also reduces the total amount of time you need to take off work for surgery and the recovery process. This is a meaningful consideration for patients balancing surgery with their career and family responsibilities. Your surgeon will provide you with a detailed cost breakdown before surgery.

Balanced Results

Blending both procedures into one surgical plan helps the neck and lower face heal along a similar timeline. This creates a more unified, natural transition between the lower face and neck. Patients report a boost in their self-confidence due to their results. Undergoing the surgeries separately often leaves the face and neck looking dramatically different. This defeats the purpose of the results, which is taking years off your look.

What to Expect During Your Consultation

The first step in moving forward with getting combined cosmetic surgery is scheduling a consultation with a skilled plastic surgeon. They can assess your neck and facial anatomy to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. The surgeon will review your medical history and assess your current health. Any medical conditions must be well-managed before surgery. You must also be a non-smoker. If you do smoke, let your surgeon know right away. You will need to stop smoking before and after surgery.

Once it has been determined that you are a good candidate for the procedure, you can move forward with scheduling your consultation. The surgeon will provide you with pre-operative instructions. It is important to read these as soon as you get them. You should also follow those instructions exactly, so you are prepared on the day of your surgery. You may need to stop taking certain medications or supplements. If you have any questions before surgery, consult with your surgeon right away.

Leading Plastic Surgery Center

Combining procedures provides comprehensive results that leave you looking refreshed and rejuvenated. If you are interested in cosmetic surgery, contact Dr. Brent and his team today to schedule your consultation! 

Recognizing Heart Problems

Signs You Should See a Cardiologist

• Chest pain, tightness, or discomfort
• Heart rhythm disorders
• Shoulder, arm, jaw, or neck pain
• Heart valve disorders
• Shortness of breath
• Heart palpitations
• High blood pressure
• Fainting
• Nausea or vomiting
• High cholesterol
• Congenital heart conditions
• Dizziness
• Heart failure
• Coronary artery disease
• Anxiety
• Blood clots
• Stroke
• Weakness
• Peripheral artery disease

Medical Tests

• Blood pressure check
• Cholesterol levels check
• Electrocardiogram that records the heart’s electrical activity
• Chest X-ray that can reveal whether a heart is enlarged or if the lungs contain fluid
• Series of blood tests to check for brain natriuretic peptides (BNP) and levels of protein
• Echocardiogram that uses sound waves to produce images of the heart while it is in motion to determine how well heart valves are functioning

Find a Cardiologist

Those with certain health conditions may need a stress test. While some individuals may see positive test results, others may receive abnormal or concerning findings. If you receive abnormal results from a stress test, it may be due to coronary artery blockages, a change in heart rate, hypertension, or other cardiovascular problems. Thankfully, there are multiple stress tests a person can take, offering a variety of imaging for doctors to analyze. 

Those taking part in a cardiac stress test may be asked to lie still, walk on a treadmill, and increase the treadmill pace to determine heart rate and detect an abnormal heart rhythm. In addition, the patient will be asked to lie under a gamma camera. During this process, detailed images of the heart muscle are taken, allowing professionals to examine them and help diagnose your condition, if any. If the stress test is abnormal, your doctor will likely want to make a follow-up appointment. 

The Stress Test Process 

If a patient receives an abnormal stress test result, it likely indicates a change in how the heart responds when it is forced to work harder. This is why walking or running on a treadmill is a crucial aspect of a stress test. By monitoring heart rate throughout the walk or run, doctors can see in real time whether the heart does not respond well to working harder and pumping more blood into veins and arteries.  

Abnormal stress test results do not necessarily mean you have a heart problem. Exercise testing remains a noninvasive option for determining prognosis. During a test, doctors screen for coronary artery disease and other cardiovascular conditions. 

Abnormal Stress Test Results

According to the National Library of Medicine, treadmill stress testing is a form of cardiovascular stress testing that typically uses electrocardiography and blood pressure monitoring during exercise, typically on a bicycle or treadmill.

A treadmill stress test can help doctors determine whether a patient has coronary artery disease. Additionally, treadmill testing can recognize:

• Valvular heart disease
• Heart failure
• Myocardial ischemia
• Coronary artery disease and its progression 
• Cardiomyopathy
• Acute chest pain
• Cardiac arrhythmias

Thankfully, a stress test helps doctors and patients understand cardiovascular health issues and provides solutions to any problems.

Reasons to Stop a Stress Test 

Individuals taking part in a stress test will be monitored by professionals throughout the entire process, noting heart rate and how well the heart handles walking, jogging, or running. Some tests may need to be abruptly stopped if any of the following occur:

• Moderate to severe angina
• The patient’s desire to stop
• Increasing chest pain
• Drop in blood pressure
• Neurologic symptoms such as dizziness or ataxia
• Technical difficulties in monitoring blood pressure
• Sustained ventricular tachycardia
• Arrhythmias such as premature ventricular contractions
• Fatigue, wheezing, or shortness of breath
• Spike in blood pressure

Once testing has concluded, your doctor will review the results and guide you on how to relieve your symptoms, as well as provide information about treatment. 

Find Treatment Today

Apex Cardiology understands the importance of providing cardiology services for the community. Not only do we provide a full range of cardiac stress tests, but we also offer interventional procedures and cardiac imaging. Despite the many tests, we tailor treatment options to each individual, as every patient has unique needs. While we provide personal attention for all patients, we maintain professionalism to help you feel more comfortable.  

Contact us today to learn more about our Los Angeles cardiologists and physicians. Our doctors offer noninvasive methods to evaluate the heart and the arteries surrounding it. With computer software, cardiologists can examine the beating heart and receive information about the heart’s structure and whether there are any indications of coronary artery disease. Consider a consultation with one of our experts today.

Over time, changes to your breasts can occur. This includes changes in the size, shape, and symmetry of your breasts. This is common due to natural aging, pregnancy, breastfeeding, and weight fluctuations. Some women are also unhappy with the natural look of their breasts from a young age. A breast augmentation is a great option to address the issues you have with your breasts. Many patients are concerned about the breast augmentation recovery process when considering surgery. You may wonder, how painful is breast augmentation recovery? Below, you will find helpful information to guide you through the process seamlessly.

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How Painful Is Breast Augmentation Recovery?

Breast augmentation is one of the most common cosmetic procedures. It offers effective results with a short recovery period. Discomfort is a common concern among those considering surgery. This is understandable, as it is a surgical procedure that requires incisions and anesthesia. However, there are effective ways to manage your symptoms after surgery.

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The First Few Days After Surgery

Breast augmentation follows a predictable pattern of post-surgical discomfort. The first 72 hours after surgery are the most intense. You may notice tightness and pressure across your chest. This is completely normal and not a cause for concern. The symptoms will gradually subside over the next week. Surgeons often prescribe pain medication to ensure your comfort during this period. By the end of the first week, most patients can use over-the-counter pain medication to manage any residual discomfort. There are several other ways to reduce discomfort after surgery.

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Factors That Impact Pain Levels After Surgery​

Two factors affect your post-surgery pain. The size of your implant and placement have an influence on post-surgical pain levels. Patients who choose submuscular placement tend to experience more soreness. Submuscular placement is where the implant is placed beneath the muscle. Alternatively, subglandular placement is above the muscle. The soreness from submuscular placement is due to the muscle stretching and adapting to accommodate the implant. The tightness fades after the first few days.

The size of the implant also affects post-surgical discomfort. Larger implants place a greater mechanical load on the surrounding tissue and skin as you heal. The larger the implants, the longer the period of pressure and heaviness. However, this gradually subsides as you heal. It is helpful to consider that these two factors also interact. Submuscular placement with larger implants often correlates with greater discomfort. The good news is that the recovery period is short, and you should feel better within 1 to 2 weeks. Your body quickly adapts, and discomfort can be effectively managed after surgery.

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How to Manage Post-Surgical Pain

Most patients are back to their routine within two weeks. Managing your pain after surgery can make the process much easier on you. Consider the following ways to reduce your discomfort after a breast augmentation.

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Use a Cold Compress

Using a cold compress after surgery can help manage pain. It is effective at managing swelling, which can help alleviate chest tightness. Apply a cold compress for no more than twenty minutes. Too much cold can restrict the necessary blood flow to the area. Use it every few hours for the first few days for the best results.

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Stay Elevated at All Times​

Keeping yourself elevated can help with swelling and discomfort. Keep your head and upper body elevated to a 45-degree angle at all times. This includes when you are sleeping. Do this for at least four to six weeks after surgery. The position minimizes overnight swelling. It also promotes healthy fluid drainage, which relieves pressure on your surgical incisions. Staying elevated can also improve your long-term results by preventing the implants from shifting right after surgery.

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Consume Healthy and Balanced Foods

​Hydration supports the body’s natural healing response. Consuming light, healthy foods and drinks after surgery is helpful. Avoid heavy, fried, and highly processed foods. Focus on nutrient-dense foods and drinking at least eight glasses of water each day. This is often overlooked but a necessary part of healing. Many people order out or fail to prioritize what they are consuming after surgery. Prepare meals in advance and freeze them. Or, have a friend or family member with you after surgery, so they can help you prepare food.

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Wear Your Support Garments

You will be provided with support garments after a breast augmentation. The surgical compression bra is a medical-grade, wire-free bra. It is designed to support optimal recovery. This includes controlling swelling and protecting your incisions. It also holds your implants in place, so they do not shift right after surgery. Wearing your surgical compression bra as prescribed has a significant impact on your recovery and comfort.

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Prioritize Rest

The most important thing you can do after surgery to manage your symptoms is rest. The first few days should be focused solely on taking it easy. Have a trusted friend or family member stay with you. They can administer your medication, prepare your food, and monitor your symptoms. Once you begin to feel more energized, incorporate light walking in short bursts throughout the day. This can assist in circulation and promote optimal healing. It is necessary to take it slowly and avoid doing too much too soon.

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Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions

One of the most important steps in your recovery process is following your surgeon’s post-surgical instructions. They know your medical history and any modifications necessary for your unique case. Adhering to those instructions as closely as possible can streamline the recovery. It can also reduce your risk for post-surgical complications and optimize your results. Attend all of your follow-up appointments. Your plastic surgeon can assess your progress and make any necessary modifications.

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Top Plastic Surgeon for Breast Augmentation

Changes to your breasts can impact your confidence and self-esteem. If you want to address breast changes, contact the team at Elise Min Plastic Surgery today to schedule your consultation!

A deviated septum is a common condition that can have a real impact on your daily life. Some people experience mild symptoms without realizing the cause is a structural issue. A deviated septum can impact your breathing, sleep, and overall health if left untreated. Patients often think the issue will go away on its own if they do not understand the root cause. You may wonder, can a deviated septum get worse over time? Below you will find information on when you should seek treatment.

Can a Deviated Septum Get Worse Over Time?

Over time, a deviated septum can get worse. The septum is the wall of bone and cartilage that divides the nasal passages into left and right airways. When it is not centered, it narrows one or both passages. This restricts airflow when you breathe during the day and night. While some patients can become accustomed to a mild deviation for years, it can worsen over time.

In fact, many people experience a gradual and progressive decline in nasal function. There are several reasons for this. These include the natural aging process, chronic inflammation, and nasal injuries. When you notice your symptoms getting worse, it is time to contact a professional at the plastic surgery center for a thorough evaluation.

Factors that Worsen a Deviated Septum

Several factors can worsen a deviated septum. They can push an existing deviation even further out of alignment. This can make breathing, sleeping, and your daily life difficult.

Natural Aging

Nasal cartilage loses its natural elasticity over time. When the cartilage naturally softens, the septum can shift even more. Patients who have only mild obstruction may notice more issues as they get older. The structural integrity of the septum relies on the surrounding tissue. When this weakens, the symptoms can get much worse.

Chronic Nose Inflammation

Chronic inflammation can worsen a deviated septum. This includes chronic sinusitis, allergies, or recurring nasal polyps. These issues cause persistent swelling inside the nasal cavity. This puts constant pressure on the surrounding tissues in the nose, including the septum. Managing the inflammation does not correct the underlying structural issue. However, it can make it much worse and exacerbate symptoms.

Nose Trauma

A secondary injury to the nose can further displace an already deviated septum. Even minor trauma can cause issues when the alignment of the nose changes; the symptoms of a deviated septum can worsen. Every injury adds to the complexity of the issue. This requires a thorough evaluation and treatment to address your symptoms.

Signs You Need an Evaluation

Understanding the early warning signs of a worsening deviated septum is key. Recognizing the signs ensures timely intervention. Avoid waiting to see a professional if you notice any of the following symptoms.

Increased Nasal Obstruction

Once minor blockages worsen and breathing becomes difficult, it is necessary to consult with a professional. This is especially true if the obstruction impacts sleep, physical activity, or your daily life. Nasal obstruction that gets worse over time is often due to structural issues, like a deviated septum.

Worsening Sleep Disruption

Sleep is an integral part of your overall health. Breathing difficulties during sleep can impact the amount and quality of sleep that you get. Over time, this can have a serious impact on your health. Common symptoms include snoring, mouth breathing, and frequent wakeups. Left unaddressed, poor sleep can impact your cognition, cardiovascular health, and overall quality of life.

Recurring Sinus Infections

Frequent sinus infections are a notable red flag. Severe cases trap mucus and create an environment where bacteria can thrive. If you get more than three sinus infections each year, it is time to get evaluated. Without addressing the structural issue, managing the sinus infections alone is not enough.

How Septoplasty Addresses a Deviated Septum

The first step in addressing your deviated septum is scheduling a consultation. A skilled surgeon can assess your nasal structure and symptoms. From there, they can create a treatment plan based on your unique needs. Surgical intervention is highly effective and can improve your daily life. Septoplasty is a surgical procedure used to treat a deviated septum. The procedure repositions and reshapes the displaced bone and cartilage. This centers and restores the airway to its proper function. The surgery is performed on an outpatient basis so that you can go home the same day.

Top Plastic Surgery Center

Issues related to your deviated septum can cause breathing difficulties. If you are struggling with a deviated septum, contact Dr. Brent and his team today to schedule a consultation!

The neck is one of the first places the body shows its age. The skin there is thinner than almost anywhere else on the face and body. The neck is often in motion, which can cause fine lines, wrinkles, banding, and skin sagging. Compared to the face, the neck also tends to get far less attention when it comes to sun protection and skincare. Many people forget to moisturize and protect their necks. You may wonder, what causes skin sagging? Below you will find helpful information on the causes and treatment options for the signs of aging on the neck.

What Causes a Sagging Neck?

The signs of aging on the neck can make you look much older than you are. This is true even if your face looks much younger. It is a telltale area that gives away your age. This is because a thin, sheet-like muscle supports the neck. It is referred to as the platysma. This runs from the chest to the jawline. Directly above the platysma is a layer of fat.
On top of that is the skin itself. When these layers function properly, the neck appears smooth, firm, and youthful. However, changes to just one of them can impact your entire neck. Several factors can change the appearance of the neck. In many cases, a neck lift is the most effective way to address the issue.

Loss of Collagen and Elastin

Collagen and elastin are important proteins that keep your skin firm and youthful-looking. As early as your 20s, the production of both proteins begins to decline. This continues as you get older. Collagen provides structure and support to the skin. Elastin allows the skin to bounce back after being stretched. The loss of collagen and elastin impacts the neck, as the skin in the area is naturally thinner. It also has fewer oil glands than facial skin. As a result, the neck loses elasticity and moisture much more quickly. You may notice that the skin becomes loose, creased, or crepey as you get older.

Loosened Muscles

Over time, the platysma muscle weakens. This can begin to separate along the midline of the neck. When this happens, the muscle’s edges become visible. You may notice vertical bands down the front of the neck. These can become really noticeable when you smile or talk. These cannot be addressed with topical skincare products; they are a muscle issue. Cosmetic surgery is the most effective way to address the signs of aging.

Fat Accumulation

A double chin can weigh down the neck, leading to sagging. Fat can accumulate due to weight gain. However, it can also develop in people who are at a healthy weight. This is often due to genetics. No matter the cause, excess fat can affect the skin on the neck. Once present, it is often difficult to get rid of. Double chin fat is often resistant to diet and exercise. Cosmetic surgery is the most effective way to improve the neck area.

Sun Exposure and UV Damage

Sun damage is one of the most harmful things for your skin. Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays accelerates skin aging. UV damage breaks down the collagen and elastin fibers in the skin. This leads to premature skin laxity and uneven texture. Many people often forget to apply sunscreen to their neck, even if they apply it to their face. Over time, this can affect how the neck looks. Sagging skin on the neck is one of the most common problems caused by this.

Treatment for a Sagging Neck

The type of treatment that is right for you depends on how significant the neck changes are. Additionally, the cause can play a factor in which treatment option is best. Working with a skilled surgeon at the top plastic surgery center is a must. The first step in addressing your sagging neck is scheduling a consultation. Mild cases may benefit from neurotoxin injections, which relax the neck muscles. Energy-based treatments that stimulate collagen production can also be beneficial. However, moderate to severe skin sagging requires surgical intervention. A neck lift is the most effective treatment option for permanent results. A skilled surgeon can assess your neck and determine the best course of action.

Leading Plastic Surgery Center

Natural aging and poor lifestyle habits can impact the appearance of the neck. If you want to rejuvenate your look, contact Dr. Brent Moelleken and his team today to schedule your consultation!