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Posted by Dr. Hardesty

Puberty is a time of major changes for everyone, and for some boys, it comes with a condition called gynecomastia.

Gynecomastia is when boys develop extra breast tissue, making their chest look larger. This can be confusing and upsetting, but it’s a common issue.

Let’s break down what you need to know about gynecomastia near you and how you can handle it. 

Note: Make sure you always consult a medical professional before getting any of these procedures done. 

Table of Contents

• What is Gynecomastia?
• Why Does It Happen?
• Eat Healthy Foods
• Stay Active
• Check with a Doctor 
• Finding Help At Imagine Plastic Surgery
• Build Your Confidence
• Take Action Now

What is Gynecomastia?

Understanding Gynecomastia

Gynecomastia happens when boys get extra breast tissue because of changes in hormones during puberty. It’s usually temporary and often goes away as you get older. It can cause the chest to look puffier or larger than usual, which might make you feel self-conscious. Knowing that this is a normal part of growing up can help ease your worries. 

Why Does It Happen?

During puberty, your body’s hormones are in flux. These changes can sometimes cause the breast tissue to swell. Gynecomastia is a normal response to these hormonal shifts, and it affects many boys. It’s usually nothing to worry about and tends to improve as hormone levels stabilize.

Eat Healthy Foods 

• Choose Nutritious Foods 

Eating a balanced diet is one of the best ways to help your body stay healthy. Focus on foods that give you good energy and nutrients. Fruits, vegetables, lean proteins (like chicken and fish), and whole grains are excellent choices. They help your body stay strong and can improve your overall health. 

• Avoid Junk Food 

Try to cut back on junk food and sugary snacks. While they might taste good, they don’t provide the nutrients your body needs. Plus, eating too much of these foods can lead to weight gain, which might make gynecomastia more noticeable.

Stay Active 

• Exercise Regularly 

Regular exercise is important for everyone, and it can help with gynecomastia too. Aim for activities you enjoy, like biking, swimming, or playing sports. These activities help burn calories and keep you in shape. 

• Build Chest Muscles

 Strength training exercises can help build muscle in your chest. Push-ups, bench presses, and other chest exercises can help make your chest look firmer. Building muscle doesn’t get rid of gynecomastia, but it can improve the appearance of your chest.

Check with a Doctor 

• Consult a Doctor

Various prescription medications may cause gynecomastia through a number of mechanisms including:

• increased serum estrogen levels or estrogen-like activity
• decreased testosterone levels
• hypogonadism
• anti-androgenic effects
• increased prolactin levels.

Illicit drugs can cause gynecomastia including steroids, amphetamines, marijuana alcohol and heroin. Acute onset gynecomastia can be caused by adrenal or testicular tumors which secrete hormones that can contribute to gynecomastia. 

If you’re worried about gynecomastia, it’s a good idea to talk to a doctor. They can examine you and see if hormones are causing the problem. Most of the time, gynecomastia will go away on its own, but your doctor can offer advice and treatment if needed. 

• Explore Treatment Options 

In some cases, gynecomastia might need medical treatment. If it doesn’t go away or is causing you a lot of distress, your doctor might suggest treatments. These could include medications or, in some cases, surgery. It’s important to discuss these options with your doctor to understand what’s best for you.

Finding Help At Imagine Plastic Surgery

If you are seeking assistance for gynecomastia, Imagine Plastic Surgery can offer valuable support. We are equipped to address this condition with personalized care and guidance. We offer a well-trained team that provides comprehensive cosmetic care using non-invasive, minimally-invasive and other state-of-the-art surgical techniques. We have more minimally-invasive and non-invasive technology than any medical or surgical practice in the Inland Empire.

We have a team of healthcare providers who are not only certified and experienced in delivering the results you are seeking but who are sensitive to your needs. Our team at Imagine Plastic Surgery epitomizes excellence in patient care — enabling our patients to choose their treatment and control where and how.

Build Your Confidence

• Focus on Positive Aspects

Gynecomastia can make you feel self-conscious, but it’s important to focus on the positive aspects of yourself. Your worth isn’t defined by how you look. By focusing on what you can control, like staying healthy and doing things you enjoy, you can boost your self-esteem.

• Talk About Your Feelings 

It can be really helpful to talk about what you’re going through. Share your feelings with friends, family, or support groups. Knowing that others understand and care can make a big difference. Sometimes just talking about your worries can help you feel better.

Take Action Now

• Stay Informed 

Keep learning about gynecomastia and how to manage it. The more you know, the better prepared you’ll be. Look for reliable information and stay updated on new ways to handle gynecomastia. Knowledge can help you feel more in control.

• Be Patient 

Gynecomastia is often just a phase that will pass with time. Be patient and give your body the time it needs to adjust. Most boys find that their gynecomastia improves as they get older and their hormones balance out.

Dealing with gynecomastia during puberty can be challenging, but it’s a common issue that many boys face. Remember, it’s usually temporary and will often improve as you grow older. By eating healthy, staying active, talking to a doctor, and using local resources, you can manage gynecomastia and boost your confidence. Keep learning, be patient, and don’t hesitate to reach out for support. With the right approach and mindset, you can get through this phase with greater ease and self-assurance.

Feel free to contact us for the best Gynecomastia in Inland Empire and Riverside!

Note: Always consult a medical professional before you get started with any such procedures.

Call us at (951) 686-7600 or visit us at 4646 Brockton Ave #302, Riverside, CA 92506 to learn more about our services and start your journey toward a healthier you.

 

Posted by Dr. Hardesty

When considering breast implants, one of the biggest decisions you’ll need to make is where to place them. The placement of implants can significantly affect their appearance and how you feel afterward. There are two main options: placing the implants ‘over the muscle’ or ‘under the muscle’.

Let’s explore these options in detail to help you understand which breast augmentation near you might be the best fit for you.

Note: Make sure you always consult a medical professional before getting any of these procedures done.

Table of Contents

• What Does “Over the Muscle” Mean?
• What About “Under the Muscle”?
• Factors to Consider When Choosing Implant Placement
• Finding the Right Surgeon

What Does “Over the Muscle” Mean?

Placing implants ‘over the muscle’ means positioning them just below the breast tissue but on top of the chest muscle. To visualize this, think of the chest muscle as a layer that sits beneath the breast tissue. The implants are placed directly underneath this layer, nestled above the muscle.

Here’s why some people might prefer this placement:

• Faster Recovery Time: Since the muscle isn’t disturbed during surgery, the recovery process is often quicker. Most patients find they can resume their regular activities sooner than with other methods.
• More Natural Look: For women who already have a good amount of breast tissue, placing the implants ’over the muscle’ can result in a very natural appearance. The implants blend well with the existing tissue, which can create a smooth and aesthetically pleasing look.
• Less Pain: Typically, this method involves less post-operative pain because the chest muscle isn’t manipulated. Patients often report feeling less discomfort as they recover.

However, there are some potential downsides:

• Visibility of Implants: If you have less natural breast tissue, the implants might be more noticeable. They can sometimes feel or look more prominent, especially if there’s not enough tissue to fully cover them.
• Capsular Contracture Risk: This is a condition where scar tissue forms around the implant, which can cause firmness and changes in the implant shape. The risk can be slightly higher with over-the-muscle placement compared to under-the-muscle placement.

What About “Under the Muscle”?

With ‘under the muscle’ placement, the implants are positioned beneath the chest muscle. This method places the implant deeper, with the muscle acting as a cushion on top of it.

Here’s why some people might choose this option:

• Better Coverage: The chest muscle provides an extra layer of coverage, which can make the implants less noticeable. This often results in a more natural feel and appearance, as the muscle helps blend the implant with the surrounding tissue.
• Lower Risk of Capsular Contracture: The extra layer of muscle can help reduce the risk of capsular contracture, where scar tissue forms around the implant and affects its shape and firmness.
• Improved Mammogram Results: For women who need regular mammograms, implants placed ‘under the muscle’ can provide better results. The muscle helps push the tissue up and makes it easier for mammograms to detect any issues.

However, there are some considerations:

• Slightly Longer Recovery: Because the chest muscle is stretched and manipulated during surgery, recovery might take longer. Patients may experience more discomfort and need additional time to heal.
• Initially More Discomfort: Since the muscle is affected, there might be increased pain and soreness after the procedure. This is generally more intense immediately following surgery but improves as healing progresses.
• Initial Appearance: Right after surgery, implants might appear higher on the chest due to muscle tension. However, they usually settle into a more natural position over time.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Implant Placement

Choosing between over-the-muscle and under-the-muscle placement involves considering various factors:

• Body Type: Your body shape and the amount of natural breast tissue can influence the best choice. Women with more natural breast tissue may find that over-the-muscle placement works well, while those with less tissue might benefit from under-the-muscle placement for better coverage and a more natural look.
• Lifestyle: If you’re active or engage in sports, under-the-muscle placement might be a better option. This method often provides more stability and can feel more natural during movement. It also helps keep the implants in place during physical activities.
• Aesthetic Goals: Your personal preferences and aesthetic goals are crucial. Discussing these with your surgeon can help you determine which placement will best meet your expectations. For instance, if you’re looking for a very natural look, under-the-muscle might be more suitable. If you prefer a quicker recovery, over-the-muscle could be the better choice. 

Finding the Right Surgeon

Choosing a qualified surgeon is vital to achieving the results you want. If you’re looking for a breast augmentation surgeon in Riverside or in the Inland Empire, it’s important to select an experienced professional. A good surgeon will discuss all your options, explain the pros and cons, and help you make an informed decision based on your unique needs and goals.

Deciding whether to place breast implants over or under the muscle is a significant decision with important implications for your appearance and recovery. Each option has its advantages and challenges, so understanding these can help you make the best choice for your body and desired results. Experts at Imagine Plastic Surgery will provide personalized guidance and ensure you select the method that aligns with your aesthetic goals and lifestyle.

If you’re considering a breast augmentation or implants, our qualified surgeon will help you navigate your choices. We will guide you through the process, answer your questions, and support you in achieving the results you envision.

Call us at (951) 686-7600 or visit us at 4646 Brockton Ave #302, Riverside, CA 92506 to learn more about our services and start your journey toward a healthier you.

Posted by Dr. Hardesty

The modern technology of FUE is a relatively new but a proven automated follicular unit extraction (FUE) and hair transplant system which has with greater precision has markedly improved the harvesting of hair follicles without having to incur a large incision from ear to ear, no need for sutures/staples (or removal) while reducing complications and decreasing recovery time.

PREPARING FOR FOLLICULAR UNIT EXTRACTION (FUE) AND TRANSPLANTATION PROCEDURE
Prior to performing the automated follicular unit extraction (FUE) the donor scalp hair area is marked and the only the donor area is shaved to leave a fine stubble and then the scalp is prepared by applying antiseptic solutions.

A numbing cream is applied to the area where the scalp nerve block will be completed. The nerve block fluid is now inserted using long acting numbing local anesthesia. Once the scalp is numb insertion of tumescent fluid (which contains additional numbing medication and ant bruising medication) follows. This tumescent fluid allows for a more accurate removal of the follicular units.

HOW IS THE AUTOMATED FOLLICULAR UNIT EXTRACTION (FUE) PERFORMED?
Using magnification the automated hand piece is oriented parallel to the desired hair follicular unit. The pinhole of hair and surrounding supportive tissues is extracted by the automated pneumatic pressure hand piece. This sophisticated hand piece makes a short, quick, rotational spin on the scalp to extract automatically, precisely and gently the hair graft. The FUE hair graft slides out the scalp skin smoothly, meticulously and a traumatically.
This automated extraction process prevents pulling or twisting of the follicular unit that can risk damaging the hair graft. This modern technology insures the best follicular unit extraction and likewise a greater chance of “hair graft take” (permanent hair graft incorporation).
In addition the donor sites are micro pinhole in size, heal in a nearly imperceptible manner, with a faster healing period and less complications.

Using the advanced Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) hair transplant technology has also dramatically improved the accuracy and speed over the previously used manual extraction and non sophisticated instrumentation. This results in a more robust hair graft which can being implanted sooner.

In addition the older manual “strip scalp” method where manually a long strip of scalp and hair is cut out using a scalpel blade, thus not only hair but unneeded scalp skin and tissue. This older method results in a long scar from ear to ear, sutures/staples and need of suture/staple removal. Also, this older method is associated with a higher complication rate and a longer healing period.

PREPARATION OF FOLLICULAR UNIT HAIR GRAFT
When the automated follicular unit extraction technology is used the resultant harvested grafts which have been precisely extracted will need less manipulation and preparation thus less trauma to the follicular hair graft.

The harvested FUE hair grafts are prepared using a stereoscopic binocular microscopes. The unneeded tissue is removed and the grafts are sorted into single, double or triple hair graft units.

THE HAIR TRANSPLANTATION PROCESS
The area where the grafts will be placed have been marked and under magnification the density, angulation and precise location are determined. Using loupe magnification, a fine needle and identical size pinhole is made in the recipient area. Each follicular unit is individually placed using microsurgical instrumentation.
When the hair line is being restored the single hair follicles are used to create a natural hairline, density and angulation. The remaining multiple follicular hair units are then placed to create a normal appearing pattern and density.

SUMMARY
The modern and automated follicular unit extraction (FUE) and transplantation we feel is superior to any other method of hair restoration for the following reasons:

Minimally Invasive Technology: Automated Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE) and Transplantation Technology is the least invasive procedure for hair transplantation
Precision: Exact micro pinholes in contrast to to a manual scalpel incision. No sutures. No long ear to ear linear scar.
Usually only local anesthesia: Little to no discomfort once numb.
Less complications: Since only micro pinhole harvest and transplant the donor site and recipient follicular unit site are used.
Faster Recovery Time: Minimal postoperative pain since there is no incisions and thus less down time. Most patients return to normal daily activities in several days.
Permanent solution: over time, your own hair will continue to grow naturally and your result will continue to blend with your own hair.
Affordable: A investment of a life time! Various financing options are available to meet your budget.

COST/FFEES
The fees are based on the anesthesia used (local vs sedation or general anesthesia), the facility (minor surgical suite, outpatient operating room or hospital setting) and if combined with other procedures. All pre and post operative care is included. Some preoperative laboratory analysis may be required (usually covered by your medical insurance).

CONCLUSIONS
The most important factor to consider is seeking the opinion and services of a skilled, experienced and Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who are experts in automated follicular unit extraction (FUE) and transplantation techniques. The Hair 911 team at Imagine Plastic Surgery uniquely provides not only a track record of success based on the full array of both non surgical and surgical alternatives and rejuvenation thus filling our motto of “One Goal, Many Options”. For more information, call and schedule a consultation.

Since 2003 the Staff of Imagine Plastic Surgery has provided comprehensive Cosmetic Plastic Surgery services and procedures for the many communities of the greater Inland Empire, California including but limited to Riverside, Redlands, Rancho Cucamonga, Ontario, Corona, Upland, Chino Hills, Temecula, Murrieta, Clairemont, the High Desert Cities of Victorville and Apple Valley.

Posted by Dr. Hardesty

A scrotal reduction is a body procedure that contours the skin that incase the testicles with resultant lifting of the testicles resulting in a more youthful appearance, sleek and normal proportions of the male genitalia.

WHAT DOES SCROTAL REDUCTION TREAT?

For those men that are born with or acquire (after massive weight loss or normal age effects) that have a elongated or saggy scrotal sac are candidates for scrotal reduction. The most common associated symptoms are:

• inability to wear certain clothes
• hygiene
• difficultly in exercising
• undesired cosmetic appearance
• pain without support

SCROTAL REDUCTION CANDIDATES

Any male who desires a more streamlined, youthful and less saggy scrotum.

HOW IS SCROTAL REDUCTION PERFORMED?

A scrotal reduction can often be performed under local infiltrate anesthesia or general anesthesia. The scrotal skin only is removed thus preserving all normal penile function and sensitivity.

Depending on how much scrotal skin is needed to be removed will determine the length of the well hidden resultant incision.

HOW LONG DO SCROTAL REDUCTION RESULTS LAST?

The results are permanent and after healing is very unusual to have recurrence.

SCROTAL REDUCTION RECOVERY

The recovery is usually straightforward and uneventful. A athletic supporter is worn for several weeks until the incision have healed and normal post operative pain has resolved. Ice packs have been found to reduce early, normal swelling and surgical induced inflammation.

ARE THERE ALTERNATIVES TO SCROTAL REDUCTION?

Unfortunately there are no non surgical options that effectively treat a saggy scrotum.

WHAT WILL SCROTAL REDUCTION NOT TREAT?

Scrotal reduction will not reduce the size of the size of the testicles.

CAN I COMBINE WITH OTHER PROCEDURES?

Yes, often combined with male breast reduction, liposuction, abdominal contour and facial rejuvenation.

SCROTAL REDUCTION RISKS & COMPLICATIONS

Besides the generally very low risks of any surgical procedure such as bleeding, infection and anesthesia there is an additional uncommon risk of  fluid accumulation in the scrotal sac. Fortunately this is very rare and usually resolve in a few days. Scrotal reduction will not interfere with penile function, erection or ejaculation.

COST OF SCROTAL REDUCTION

The fees are based on the anesthesia used (local vs sedation or general anesthesia), the facility (minor surgical suite, outpatient operating room or hospital setting) and if combined with other procedures. All pre and post operative care is included. Some preoperative laboratory analysis may be required (usually covered by your medical insurance).  Visit our blog for more information about scrotal reduction costs.

SUMMARY

The most important factor to consider in scrotal reduction surgery is seeking the opinion and services of a skilled, experienced and Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in Riverside, CA who are experts in scrotal reduction techniques. The Imagine Plastic Surgery staff uniquely provides the full array of both non surgical treatments and surgical alternatives to most cosmetic procedures, thus filling our motto of “One Goal, Many Options”. For more information, call and schedule a consultation.

Posted by Dr. Hardesty

If you suffer from trouble with man boobs, gynecomastia, you don’t have to live with the condition forever. You can take a proactive step with male breast reduction surgery. The operation will flatten out your chest so that you no longer have to live with enlarged breasts. Beyond the physical change, you’ll also feel much more confident and comfortable in your own skin. Let’s take a look at what gynecomastia surgery involves and why it’s worth your consideration.

Male Breast Reduction Surgery: Simple, Safe And Effective

Posted by Dr. Hardesty

The following is a detailed overview of “state of the art” permanent, no incision, no suture and quick recovery hair restoration. Future blogs and videos will focus on specific topics.

Many patients have benefited from the modern, tried and proven “state of the art” Automated Follicular Unit Extraction and Transplantation (AFUE&T) technology. This automated technology and methodology is considered the “gold standard” in permanent hair restoration. This well established and time proven automated technology and this technique provides:
– a permanent solution to hair restoration
– no long scar
– no sutures
– pin prick sized donor size
– minimal “down time”
– accomplished using just local anesthesia

Doctors and patients alike are becoming or have been aware of the advantages of Automated Follicular Unit Extraction and Transplantation (AFUE&T). When performed performed on a regular basis by a highly experienced team and trained hair restoration specialists the final appearance is natural, permanent and highly satisfying to all involved.

What is a Follicular Unit Graft?

A follicular unit graft is a tiny living unit composed of natural and individual hair(s) containing: hair bulb, hair shaft and external hair, associated hair muscle, nerve and blood vessels, surrounding hair supportive tissue, most often contains one to three hairs, but occasionally four hairs.

Where are the Follicular Units obtained from?

The back and sides of the scalp are genetically and hormonally resistant “privileged” hair that are not associated with hair loss. Therefor these hairs will act as where they were obtained (harvested/donor area) will act and grow hair as where they were obtained.

How are the Follicular Hair Grafts Obtained?

How the follicular units are extracted is quite different. The Follicular Units are extracted by:
The (older non automated method) Strip Method: Surgically and manually excising a strip of scalp skin containing hair (requiring sutures, a long scar from ear to ear and linger recovery). We refer this as macro harvesting. The Automated Follicular Extraction (FUE) method: minimally invasive (pinholes requiring no sutures) in which the hair units are individually extracted using “state of the art” technology (no suturing,no long scar, this quicker recovery). We refer to this as micro harvesting.

How are Follicular Unit Hair Prepared?

Once obtained the actual follicular units are processed:

Macrografting Preperation:
This older method (and seldom used) of macro harvesting and transplanting ‘plugs’ 4-6 millimeters in size. The punch grafts consist of up to 15-18 hairs. A punch is used to place the graft. We refer to this older (and not very often) used technique as macrografting.
The results often look like corn rows” of hair.

Micrografting Preperation:
Utilizing our modern microscopic Follicular Unit Harvesting and Preparation the individual actual follicular unit grafts are prepared for grafting using a binocular a stereomicroscope and loupe magnification. Using this specialized microscope and loupe magnification results in the ability to perform a enhanced and meticulous graft dissection resulting in preserving the integrity of the follicular while removal all unnecessary tissue. Thus allowing for a better and more reliable graft incorporation. With this careful trimming of excess tissue, the follicular unit remains intact and allow the grafts to be kept as small as possible. This allows for smaller needle sized at recipient site so that individual follicular unit fit comfortably and with a natural appearance.

While the micrografting process is more time consuming, tedious and delicate. However this micro dissection technique results in a smaller (pinprick holes), faster healing, natural appearing and individual follicular units. However the additional time and effort, is well worth it: the results are noticeably superior with a more natural and near Invisable donor area.

Transplanting/Implanting (grafting) Follicular Unit Hair Grafts

Before starting the the hair restoration procedure using the modern automated follicular unit extraction and transplantation (AFUE & T), Dr. Hardesty will personally meet with you. Based on your hair restoration needs and your pre balding photos he will mark your donor area, design your hair line, decide on what density is needed and the angulation of the transplanted hair follicles are all critical factors in achieving a natural appearance.

The former day old “plug” hair transplant techniques resulted in a unnatural appearance and often “odd” look. Using the modern Automated Follicular Unit Extraction and Transplantation (AFUT &T) the final result should be natural and essentially undetectable.

The hairs of the scalp grows at different angles. These angulations define as the natural appearance of your hair. To ensure the proper angulations, Dr. Hardesty will place the transplanted hair at the appropriate angle to give a natural, undetectable appearance. When the transplanted hair is skillfully and artistically placed at the proper angle, the appearance is natural and aesthetically pleasing.

After the follicular hair units have been harvested, processed and sorted the implantation is begun. There is much more involved in then just “plugging” in the hair units. The formers day old “plug” hair transplant techniques resulted in a unnatural appearance and often “odd” look. Using the modern Automated Follicular Unit Extraction and Transplantation (AFUT &T) the final result should be natural and essentially undetectable.

Follicular unit hair grafts are then placed into precise, tiny, pin prick sized holes. Thus the insertion sites are optimized to heal quickly with a natural appearance and only almost Invisable microscopic marks/healing sites. This minimally invasive technique facilitates a speedy recovery and a superior cosmetic result.

The hairs of the scalp grows at different angles and have different density patterns. These angulations and density define your hair line and natural appearance of your hair pattern. To ensure the proper angulations, Dr. Hardesty and his team will individually place each the carefully prepared transplanted hair units at the appropriate angle(s) that will result a natural, undetectable transplanted appearance. In addition the density of follicular hair units is taken into consideration and great care is taken to “blend” the existing and transplanted follicular hair units.

It is mandatory if frontal hair loss has occurred that a natural looking and individualized approach is undertaken for each patient. Most often single follicular hair units are placed in a pattern of natural appertaining rows mimicking the normal density and angulation. As the transition begins towards to the top of the head the transplanted follicular units will be a mixture of single, double and a few triple grafts.

When the transplanted hair is skillfully and artistically placed at the proper angle, density and spacing, the final appearance is not only permanent but natural in appearance and aesthetically pleasing.

Are Multiple Transplant Sessions Needed?

The goal of follicular unit graft placement is for a natural appearance and hair restoration. For most patients, only one hair restoration session is all that needed. However depending on many factors 2 or more sessions may be necessary to yield a completely satisfactory cosmetic result.

We here at Hair 911, under the direction and supervision of Dr. Hardesty will try to reach your hair restoration in one session. By incorporating the modern and state of the art automated follicular extraction and translation technology and utilizing a whole team of highly trained and experienced hair restoration specialists allows harvest and transplantation of “large volume” follicular Hair units in a careful, effective and efficient single session. Thus large volumes of 2,500 to 5,000 follicular units can now be transplanted in a single session. Some refer to this as a “mega session”. These “mega sessions” not only takes more time but a well coordinated experienced team with highly tuned skills.

Why the Automated Follicular Hair Extraction and Transplantation (AFUE & T) superior to the strip method?

The significant advantages to Follicular Unit Extraction and Transplantation is:
– No incisions
– No sutures
– Faster healing because there is no long incisions from ear to ear
– The ability to harvest multiple (micro harvest) individual hair units over a larger area
– Place these tiny (micro grafting) into very small recipient sites pinprick size holes (sized 0.6-1.2 mm in width)
– Results in minimal trauma to the surrounding skin and blood vessels allows the hair transplant specialist to safely transplant literally thousands of grafts in a single session and complete the hair restoration process without multiple sessions.

One Goal, Many Options

The most important factor to consider for your procedure or treatment is seeking the opinion and services of a skilled, experienced and Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who are experts in techniques. The Imagine Plastic Surgery team uniquely provides the full array of both non surgical and surgical alternatives thus filling our motto of “One Goal, Many Options.” For over 30 years Dr. Hardesty, an award winning, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, has proudly been serving Riverside and San Bernardino counties of the Inland Empire and the communities of Rancho Cucamonga, Ontario, Upland, Corona, Chino Hills and Redlands. For over 30 years Dr. Hardesty and the Staff of Imagine Plastic Surgery have provided comprehensive Cosmetic Plastic Surgery services and procedures to Riverside and San Bernardino counties of the Inland Empire and the communities of Rancho Cucamonga, Ontario, Upland, Corona, Chino Hills and Redlands.

Posted by Dr. Hardesty

Posted by Dr. Hardesty

Posted by Dr. Hardesty

GOAL OF PREPARATION FOR YOUR FUE HAIR RESTORATION PROCEDURE

The goal of preparation is to reach your hair restoration goals as smoothly as possible and ensuring your recovery is quickly as possible while reducing the risks and complications. In addition to the health benefits, your state of mind is important and knowing you’re prepared for your hair restoration will reduce normal anxiety and optimize you and your body for the procedure and for the following healing period.

TWO WEEKS BEFORE FUE HAIR RESTORATION

-The Preoperative Appointment

You will be meeting with several members of the Hair 911 hair restoration specialists team at Imagine Plastic Surgery and Dr. Hardesty at the preoperative appointment.

-You will be provided with detailed written pre-operative instructions and recommendations. Following all of these instructions will help in reducing normal preoperative anxiety, ensure your comfort, optimize your recovery, and reducing and avoiding the common liposuction complications while speeding up your healing process.

-You will receive a list of medications to start.

-You should stop all blood thinning medications and over the counter pain relievers other than Tylenol. Specifically do not take aspirin or ibuprofen. These drugs interfere with the body’s normal blood clotting and increase bruising and hematoma (blood collection) complications.

-You should stop all female hormones or hormonal birth control pills. If you don’t stop there is a increased risk of blood clots which can dislodge and relocate to your lungs called pulmonary embolism (PE). A PE is a serious and can be life threatening.

-Mandatory: do not smoke or vape. The smoke actually reduces circulation, delays wound healing and prolongs recovery. Nicotine increases your chances of post-surgical complications. You will also need to continue to refrain from smoking for at least two week following surgery.

-Do not take or stop all herbal supplements, high dose vitamin E or fish oils. We highly recommend you stop taking all herbal supplements two weeks prior to surgery. Why? Supplements are not well regulated and may contain unknown components that are detrimental to surgery and recovery. Specifically several herbal supplements such as St. John’s wort, ginkgo biloba, green tea extract, ginseng, and garlic can interact negatively with anesthesia, bleeding, recovery and healing. EXCEPTION:The only herbal product we recommend using prior to or after your surgery is arnica and bromeliads cream. This plant-based product is often used to reduce inflammation, soothe muscle aches, and heal wounds

-Do take a daily multivitamin with only recommended daily allowances to ensure your healing compotbts are at optimal levels.

-a check of your blood level (hemoglobin) will be taken

-standardized photos will be taken.

-If required your preoperative evaluation clearance and additional lab results will be reviewed.

1 WEEK BEFORE YOUR FUE HAIR RESTORATION

-Do not shave the area to be treated.This will actually increase your risk of infection.

-Reduce and optimally do not drink alcohol. Alcohol thins your blood, which will prolong healing and increase bruising. Suggest instead drink water a or mineral containing drinks (example Gatorade like beverages) to hydrate and nourish.

-make final plans for coverage at work, child care, etc

3 DAYS BEFORE YOUR FUE HAIR RESTORATION

-You will begin with your twice daily (morning and evening) “bacterial decolonization protocol” which includes washing with a antibacterial wash and place prescription antibiotic ointment in your ears, nose and umbilicus (tummy button).

-You should have all your prescription medication filled

-You will also want to go shopping to have the following items on hand:

-purchase a plastic bag to place over your pillow then a older pillow case. Occasionally there is some minor oozing.

-Laxative or stool softener (narcotic pain medication may cause constipation)

-Comfortable detachable clothes (button down or zipper top) robe and/or pajamas

-Entertainment such as books, magazines, and movies to help keep you occupied while you rest

-clear liquids, soft diet foods and favorite liquids (non-alcoholic)

-Low sodium foods (salty foods can increase fluid retention and swelling)

-call Riverside Outpatient Surgical Center (ROSI) to verify arrival time

NIGHT BEFORE YOUR FUE HAIR RESTORATION

Finale antiseptic bath and antibiotic ointment placement in ears, nose and umbilicus (tummy button.

-no alcohol containing beverages night before.

-you can have a regular diet prior to your FUE procedure.

-If a friend of loved one is taking you to ROSI verify arrival times.

-write down any last minute questions

-Get a good night’s sleep. A sleeping aid has been prescribed. Don’t hesitate in taking if you can’t sleep.

DAY OF YOUR FUE HAIR RESTORATION YOUR FUE HAIR RESTORATION

The day had finally arrived!!

A few final steps that will conclude your preparation for your FUE hair restoration procedure.

-You may take your prescription medication with a sips of water.

-place anti nausea patch (scopolamine patch) behind your ear to lessen the chance of postoperative nausea

-if anxiety starts to set in you may take a Valium with sips of water

-You may brush your teeth

-Refrain and do not wear any: jewelry, makeup, contact lenses, hair pins and remove all piercings.

-Do wear loose, comfortable clothing that does not pull on over your head.

-Have your regular breakfast

-Bring your prescription medications to the surgicenter. The recovery room will review their usage and timing with you and your postoperative care provider.

-Bring electronic phones, tablets and ear phones to listen to during the FUE hair restoration procedure.

-Bring snacks, non alcoholic drinks of choice.

-Lunch will bd provided

YOUR FUE HAIR RESTORATION COMPLETED

Success!

-You will usually will be in the recovery area for 30 to before being discharged. The nursing staff will ensure you are eating, drinking, walking around, and comfortable prior to leaving.

-You must have arranged transportation to return home or recovery center after your FUE hair restoration. This does not include cabs, uber, or public transportation.

-You must be picked up when you are ready to be discharged. Please give our staff the phone number of the person picking you up, and they will call to advise when you are ready to be picked up.

-You may begin taking your oral painkillers and other medications when you arrive home.

-We will again provide you another copy of the same detailed pre-operative instructions given your before your surgery. Occasionally Dr. Hardesty and hair restoration specialists will also give you some additional instructions and recommendations. Following all of these instructions will help ensure your comfort, avoid complications, and speed your healing.

POST OPERATIVE CARE AFTER YOUR FUE HAIR RESTORATION

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CONCLUSIONS

The most important factor to consider is seeking the opinion and services of a skilled, experienced and Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who are experts in

the automated follicular unit extraction (FUE) and transplantation techniques. The Hair 911 hair restoration specialists at Imagine Plastic Surgery team uniquely provides not only a track record of success based on “state of the art” restoration technology thus filling our motto of “One Goal, Many Options”. For more information, call and schedule a consultation.

Since 2003 the Staff of Imagine Plastic Surgery has provided comprehensive Cosmetic Plastic Surgery services and procedures for the many communities of the greater Inland Empire, California including but limited to Riverside, Redlands, Rancho Cucamonga, Ontario, Corona, Upland, Chino Hills, Temecula, Murrieta, Clairemont, the High Desert Cities of Victorville and Apple Valley.