Ask Dr. BARBER - About Plastic Surgery

Q What is the difference between liposuctlon and body contouring? Is either procedure permanent or will I gain weight back in those areas?

A: The term body contouring refers to any procedure that reshapes the body. Most commonly this would include liposuction, tummy tuck, breast lift, thigh lifts, etc. Probably the most common body contouring procedure is liposuction and tummy tuck. Liposuction is a commonly performed procedure that will use a suction device to remove unwanted fat in the abdomen, hips, flanks, thighs and knees. Occasionally, ultrasound assisted liposuction is used when the fat is more difficult to remove, which is more common in men. Liposuction is typically done in an out-patient setting or in the office. Patients are usually ready to return to work in about one week following the procedure. The effects of liposuction are considered permanent if your weight remains about the same as when the procedure is performed. Tummy tuck is a procedure designed to remove unwanted excess skin and fat from the abdomen and will help return the abdominal shape to one that is more flat. A consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon would help determine whether a tummy tuck or liposuction is the right procedure for you.

Q: If I were to pave a breast augmentation, can I choose the shape and size of my "new" breasts?

A: When I evaluate a patient considering breast enlargement, one of the first questions I will ask is what size do you wish to be following the surgery. Almost always the answer is a C cup, and a close second in response is a D cup. It is not always quite so simple as to request the cup size. The patient's height, weight, existing cup size and base diameter of the breast will help to determine what size is best for the patient. Most patients will have a choice of sizes which frequently includes the size that she desires. The only time that I find it difficult to give the patient a large breast is when she is very petite with a narrow chest, say someone who wears a 32A bra. If too large an implant is placed in such a petite patient, there is a risk that the implant will bulge on the sides, a situation that is neither natural nor attractive. The shape of the breast following augmentation is most often dependant on the patient's existing shape. Most breasts will be larger, firmer and more round following the augmentation. A personal consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon can more accurately answer a patient's questions regarding size and shape.

About Dr. Barber

William Byron Barber II is regarded as one of the most prominent plastic surgeons in his field and has recently been selected one of America's Top Surgeons. He has been practicing plastic surgery in Greensboro for 15 years and is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. He is presently Chief of Plastic Surgery at Moses Cone Hospital System and is an active member of numerous local, regional and national plastic surgery organizations.

At Barber Plastic Surgery Center, they are committed to providing their patients with individualized care and attention in a safe and confidential setting. Dr. Barber and his staff assist and educate each patient on the many possibilities and options available through plastic surgery in their state-of-the-art fully accredited facility. Their patients are then able to make well-informed decisions, resulting in an improved quality of life.

Dr. Barber specializes in cosmetic surgery of the face and body. Dedicated to maintaining the highest standards in the industry, Dr. Barber evaluates each patient thoroughly during consultation to determine if they are a good candidate for the procedure they are considering. He educates and advises his patients regarding their expectations. This approach, combined with the level of skill and confidentiality that Dr. Barber embodies, has made him one of the most respected plastic surgeons in the southeast.

Barber Center for Plastic Surgery stays on the cutting edge of treatment and technology available. Dr. Barber is a local investigator for the FDA mandated Silicone Breast Implants study to test the safety of silicone implants. Because of the results of this and other scientific investigations, soon every patient will have a choice on which type of implant is best for her. Although the Saline implant remains the "workhorse" implant, there are times when a silicone implant is a better choice for patients.

Dr. Barber hosts free monthly seminars in his office. To make a reservation, please call Barber Center for Plastic Surgery at 336.275.3430. The office is located at 1591 Yanceyville Street, Suite 100 in Greensboro. Their website is www.barberplasticsurgery.com