Ask Dr. Elliott: In-Demand Procedures for Men

Plastic surgery for men is more popular than ever before, and continuing to grow year by year. However, instead of focusing on the numbers, I thought it might be instructive to discuss some of the most commonly performed procedures for male patients. While many guys may only associate plastic surgery for men with gynecomastia surgery (also known as male breast reduction), the truth is that this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to how cosmetic surgery can help men of all ages refresh their look and improve their self-esteem. Today, I wanted to answer a few questions that I have received pertaining to popular cosmetic procedures for men that I perform.

Question #1: Is there a specific weight I should try to reach before undergoing a male liposuction procedure?

Like most factors of any cosmetic surgery procedure, this varies from patient to patient. There is no specific number that I advise my patients to reach in terms of their weight. I just recommend that my patient reach their personal goal weight, whatever that may be, before undergoing their liposuction surgery. And most importantly, to not gain it back. As I have stated many times, liposuction is body contouring surgery, not weight loss surgery, and significant weight loss is not a result that patients should expect from their procedure.

Question #2: How much scarring should I expect following a Z-plasty neck lift?

Minimizing visible post-surgery scarring is part of why the Z-plasty neck lift is such a popular alternative for male patients. This procedure is done to help men address the fold of skin under the chin that is often referred to as a turkey wattle. While some degree of scarring will still occur, it can be easily concealed and will fade over time with the right post-surgical care.

Question #3: How much downtime will I need after undergoing chin augmentation surgery?

In my experience, patients typically need about ten days to recover following chin augmentation before resuming their normal daily routine again. More strenuous activities, including jogging, should wait at least 2-3 weeks (and 4-6 weeks for intense exercise like heavy weight lifting). Chin surgery complications are very rare, but it’s still better to be safe than sorry in regards to recuperating and post-surgical care.

I hope any men currently on the fence about undergoing a plastic surgery procedure can take comfort in these words and know that the world of cosmetic enhancement has never been more wide open to them. Providing the top level of care and attention to my patients, regardless of their gender, is a big part of why I have been named a Top Doctor in Atlanta for over 20 years. For more information or to schedule a plastic surgery consultation, please contact me, Dr. Franklyn Elliott. You can also connect with me on Facebook for additional tips, videos, news, and more.