1011 Johnston Willis Dr. Suite 110, Richmond, VA 23235

2064 11800 W Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23233

Schedule your consultation

Author: Inzhili Kitto

Are Breast Implants Worth It?

For several years, breast augmentation surgery has been a top-performing cosmetic procedure. According to a study conducted by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, just under 200,000 women underwent breast enlargement surgery in 2020 alone. This popular cosmetic surgical procedure has a controversial history, and many women may wonder, are breast implants even worth it?
At Kitto Plastic Surgery, we have witnessed many women transform into the most confident version of themselves, thanks to breast enlargement surgery. However, it is ultimately up to you whether or not it is worth it. In this article, we wanted to explore the benefits and potential drawbacks of breast enhancement surgery so that you can make an informed decision.

Benefits of Breast Augmentation

There are many benefits of breast enhancement surgery—it can increase your self-esteem, boost your confidence, improve your sexual satisfaction, and help you achieve a natural full breast shape with limited recovery.

Increased Self Esteem

Many women who seek out breast enlargement are incredibly self-conscious about the size and shape of their breasts. This can be caused by an abnormal breast shape, an underdevelopment of the breast, or even asymmetry. After the surgery, many women feel increased self-esteem and self-worth. Because they are more comfortable with their appearance, some women begin to take better care of their overall health—leading to a healthier lifestyle.

Boost Your Confidence

In addition to feeling a greater sense of self-esteem, many women report a boost in confidence. Confidence is similar to self-esteem, but with one significant difference—confidence is about your abilities, while self-esteem is about your sense of self. When you feel confident, you feel like you can take on the world. So with breast enlargement, women can become more confident in themselves, which translates into other areas of their life such as personal, professional, and spiritual confidence.

Increase in Sexual Satisfaction

With the increase of self-esteem and confidence, many recipients of breast augmentation surgery reported increased levels of sexual satisfaction. According to a study in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal, “Eighty percent of breast augmentation respondents […] declared improvements in sexual satisfaction.” This increase is likely due to a psychological boost in body image confidence.

Achieve a Natural Full Breast Shape

The main objective of breast enlargement surgery is to achieve a natural and full breast shape that suits your body. Whether one breast is larger than the other or one sags more, a breast lift and implants can help you achieve your desired look. Now, you don’t have to depend on a padded bra, boob tape, or breast enhancing garments to feel confident. You can have it all right when you wake up.

Recovery is Relatively Quick

Breast enhancement surgery today doesn’t require as much downtime as it used to. Within 5-7 days of recovery, you can return to work and feel better. (So long as your job doesn’t require manual labor.) Plus, with pain medication, your aftercare is much more bearable.

Drawbacks of Breast Enhancement Surgery

As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks involved. Whether these risks outweigh the benefits is up to your personal preference. Some drawbacks of breast enhancement surgery include an impact on your health, your ability to breastfeed, the loss of feeling in your nipples, the cost, and the possible cost of follow-up procedures.

Some Implants Can Impact Your Health

Depending on the type of implant you get, it can affect your health. Certain implants have been linked to Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (a type of cancer). These implants have been recalled, and plastic surgeons no longer use them. However, there is a health risk associated with any implant, including an increased risk of autoimmune/rheumatic disorders.

It Can Affect Your Ability to Breastfeed

In most cases, a breast enlargement does not affect your ability to breastfeed, but that is not always true. The surgery requires the surgeon to cut through breast tissue. This can disrupt the anatomy of your breast and your mammary glands. As long as the incision is a reasonable distance from your nipple, your ability to breastfeed should remain intact.

You Can Lose Feeling in Your Nipples

After the surgery, the breast tissue is still recovering, so it is common for women to temporarily lose feeling in their nipples. However, there are rare instances in which the nerve endings become damaged and permanently lose feeling.

Health Insurance Doesn’t Cover Breast Implants

There are a few instances where health insurance covers breast implants (such as breast reconstruction after a mastectomy) but very few. Breast implants are typically not covered by health insurance, meaning you are left to deal with the breast augmentation cost out of pocket. This surgery is costly and averages $4,516 for the surgeon’s fee alone. The total cost depends on your location, the surgeon, the type of implants, the anesthesia, the materials, and the facilities.

Revision and Replacement Surgeries May Be Necessary

Breast implants are a lengthy procedure, and complications can occur, so it is necessary to take on the additional cost of revision surgeries. Similarly, breast implants do break down over time. Typically they last between 12 and 15 years, but you must be aware you will need another surgery later.

Are Breast Implants Worth It?

As you can see, there are many benefits and many drawbacks to breast augmentation surgery. It is ultimately up to you to decide if breast implants are worth it. Do the risks of breast enhancement surgery outweigh the benefits? Or do the benefits outweigh the risks? Breast implants are worth it if you have the money and feel like they will significantly increase your self-esteem and confidence.

Breast Implants in Richmond, Virginia

Are you looking for breast implants in Richmond, VA? Look no further! Dr. Kitto is a board-certified plastic surgeon who performs breast enlargement surgery. She has helped women discover a renewed sense of self and confidence through these surgeries, and she is ready to help you.

Contact Kitto Plastic Surgery in Richmond, VA by calling 804-294-1777 or schedule a special weekend appointment to discuss your breast implant surgery.

March 23, 2022
Five Common Questions about Facelift Surgery

Maybe you have always been curious about facelifts or you are in the planning stages and wondering if the cost of a facelift surgery is worth it for you.
Facelift surgery is one of the most frequently performed cosmetic surgeries. It’s no wonder it’s so popular with facelift before and after providing dramatic results. No matter where you are in your cosmetic journey, it is important to understand the answers to the most common questions about the procedure.

What happens during a facelift? What should I expect?

There are a few different types of facelift surgeries that your surgeon may perform depending on your current circumstance and your goals. All facelifts are performed by making small incisions in strategic locations that allow your surgeon to manipulate muscles under the skin, remove fatty deposits, and create a lifted/tightened appearance.

Patients can expect to have a number of small incisions hidden in their hairline, behind their ears, etc. that allow the doctor to reach the target area. Anesthesia is used for all facelifts and patients can anticipate surgery to last for a few hours before spending time recovering.

Will my facelift surgery scars fade?

Since most facelift surgery incisions are in hidden areas like your hairline, scars are typically not noticeable. In circumstances when an incision needs to be on more prevalent skin, your surgeon will choose an inconspicuous location. The small incisions should not be noticeable once fully healed and should not have any prevalent scarring.

How long will my younger-looking facelift results last?

Facelift results can be dramatic and stunning in your journey for younger and smoother looking skin. A common question that patients ask is how long they can enjoy their more youthful looking appearance after the procedure. The answer is: it depends.

There are a few different types of facelfits and some will last longer than others. On average, most patients that undergo a full facelift can expect their results to last about 10-15 years post-procedure. Mini facelifts or brow lifts can have less dramatic results that still achieve a younger-looking appearance, but may only provide noticeable results for 3-7 years as opposed to the full facelift.

A facelift does not stop the aging process, so as we continue to mature our skin continues to lose elasticity and structure that can be improved by a surgery.

If results last 10-15 years, can I have more than one facelift?

There is no set maximum of facelifts surgeries you can have in your lifetime, but there are things to keep in mind. You can anticipate facelift results lasting an average of ten years, but the aging process does not suddenly hit all at once so patients may be able to wait closer to fifteen years before considering a second facelift. The procedure also pulls on skin and manipulates muscles and fat deposits, meaning that too many procedures can give the face an overly taut or stretched appearance and not give the natural looking results hoped for. Most surgeons agree that 3 to 4 procedures is the upper limit for the number of facelifts, but each patient is different. If you have had more than one facelift surgery, check in with Dr. Kitto’s team in Richmond, VA to see what treatment is right for you.

At what age should I consider having a facelift?

Every patient is different and has different needs and goals for their treatment plans. It likely is not a surprise that facelifts start becoming more common in those in their 40s, 50s, and 60s. It is in these decades when maturing skin can start to noticeably shift our appearance – our faces develop fine lines and deep set wrinkles, our cheeks lose volume and begin sagging, our jowls can become more pronounced with loosening skin. To reset the aging process, a facelift plastic surgery can address these concerns and more through targeted surgical techniques.

There can be benefits to having a facelift sooner rather than later, such as more subtle results. This is because a facelift at the start of seeing signs of aging will not involve the dramatic lifting and manipulating of the face’s muscles and fat deposits. Since many patients prefer natural looking results, having a facelift when you are younger can be the preferred option to achieve more subtle results that still have a great impact. Having the procedure done when you are younger can also provide a faster healing experience.

Ultimately, the best age for the procedure is when signs of aging begin to bother you and non-surgical treatments are no longer yielding the results you’d like.

Have you been considering a facelift and are interested in learning more? Dr. Kitto is a board-certified plastic surgeon and can help you reach your cosmetic goals. To set up a consultation Book an online appointment, call Kitto Plastic Surgery at 804-294-1777.

Now you can also Book weekend Appointments.

March 8, 2022
What are the different types of liposuction?

When it comes to slimming down and shaping up, diet and exercise are the first things that get recommended. Unfortunately, sometimes our bodies have stubborn fat deposits or carry weight in ways that natural diet and exercise just are not able to correct. These stubborn areas can appear lumpy, be prevalent, or give you an imbalanced appearance, even if you regularly exercise and eat well. Liposuction surgery is a popular way to combat these stubborn areas and to contour your body in a targeted way.
There are several different types of liposuction and you should work with a certified plastic surgeon in order to decide the best type for your goals. Your surgeon will be able to help you understand the advantages and disadvantages of each variation, the treatment areas each is appropriate for, and how previous procedures could impact the results.

Understanding the basic differences among the types of liposuction is the first step towards a more sculpted body.

Types of liposuction

Tumescent Liposuction

Tumescent liposuction surgery is the most commonly performed variation. To perform this type of liposuction, your surgeon will inject a steriles solution into your treatment area. This solution is typically a mixture of saline to help with the removal of fat, an anesthetic to help relieve any pain caused, and a drug that causes the blood vessels in the area to constrict. The injection of this sterile solution will cause the treatment area to swell and stiffen slightly. Next, your surgeon will make some small incisions into your skin and insert a very small tube under your skin. The thin tube is called a cannula and is connected to a vacuum that suctions fat and fluids from the treatment area.

Ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL)

Ultrasound-assisted liposuction can be a stand alone procedure or be used in partnership with tumescent liposuction. During this procedure, your surgeon will make a small incision and then insert a metal rod under the skin. The metal rod will then emit ultrasonic energy that helps to rupture fat-cell walls and breaks down fat in the treatment area in order to aid removal. The broken down cells are then suctioned out.

Laser-assisted liposuction (LAL)

Laser-assisted liposuction surgery, as the name indicates, uses a high-intensity laser to break down fat cells to make them easier to remove. This is accomplished by inserting a small laser fiber under the skin through a small incision. The laser fiber then emulsifies fat cells in the treatment area and a cannula suctions out the liquefied fat.

Power-assisted liposuction (PAL)

Power-assisted liposuction is another very common procedure due to the precision it can provide. In this liposuction surgery, a cannula is powered and moves back and forth quickly under the skin. The vibration of the powered cannula makes the technique quicker and more efficient. This type of liposuction often causes less pain and swelling than others. PAL is also very effective for large volumes of fat that needs to be removed or if you have undergone previous procedures. This is often used in full-body liposuction procedures.

Differences in the types of liposuction

Some liposuction procedures may require localized anesthesia, which is specific to the treatment area. Others will necessitate general anesthesia that “puts you under”. Either of these may involve a sedative that calms and relaxes you for the procedure.

Just like any other medical procedure, the surgeon and the surgical team will keep a close eye on your vitals throughout the surgery. This includes IV fluid management, monitoring heart rate, blood pressure, and more.

The length of each procedure is more dependent on the treatment area and goals than on the type of liposuction used. A liposuction surgery may last several hours, with the addition of recovery time if you are placed under general anesthesia. If the fat removal is extensive, you may stay overnight in the surgery facility to monitor fluids and vitals.

After your liposuction surgery

Once your surgeon has decided what type of liposuction will help you reach your goals, they will be able to explain post-surgery care and what to expect. Depending on the type of liposuction used, you may have slight to severe bruising in the area treated and may be sore from the vibration or suction.

Under certain circumstances, your surgeon may leave incisions open and insert temporary drains to help facilitate healing. For most procedures, you will need to wear tighter, compression style clothing to help keep swelling down. Antibiotics are often prescribed post-surgery to reduce the risk of any infection.

Like all cosmetic procedures, it is important to understand your goals for the surgery, as well as the different treatment options available. Your surgeon will likely share before and after liposuction results to showcase outcomes you can expect.

Dr. Kitto is a Board-certified plastic surgeon performing liposuction surgery in Richmond, Virginia. She specializes in helping people feel better about their bodies through a variety of surgical, minimally invasive, and non-invasive procedures.

Schedule a liposuction consultation with Dr. Kitto today to find out how you can benefit from liposuction and enjoy a newly sculpted body.

Call us at 804-294-1777 Now you can also book weekend appointments with Dr. Kitto.

February 23, 2022
Upper and Lower Eyelid surgery – Can it be performed simultaneously?
Eyes are often the first thing that gets noticed and are a prominent feature. In addition to helping us communicate through expressions, our eyes allow us to see the world and connect with others. However, the natural aging process, environmental factors, genetics, and more can all take their toll on the appearance of our eyelids.
Eyelid surgery is one of the most common cosmetic procedures performed today and there are many benefits to combining both upper and lower surgery into the same procedure.

If you are considering eyelid surgery in Richmond, VA, you should learn more about the procedure, its benefits, and recovery time from an expert. Dr. Kitto is a leading board-certified plastic surgeon with years of experience completing eyelid surgery, she can help customize your treatment plan to help you reach your cosmetic and functional goals.

What is eyelid surgery?

The delicate skin around the eyes is often the first area to show visible signs of aging. Over time, the tone, texture, muscles, and shape of the skin around our eyes can change. This can be due to genetics and face shape or can be caused by a loss of volume and elasticity in the skin.

Upper and lower eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that improves the appearance of the eyelids. The procedure can correct the appearance of thin, wrinkled, or loose skin, both for aesthetics and to correct vision issues.

If eyelid skin begins to droop, it can easily begin to impact vision and the eyelid surgery may be more functional than cosmetic.

Upper eyelid surgery, or upper blepharoplasty, targets the skin in the upper eye area. The procedure involves removing excess skin and fat that falls over the natural crease in the eyelid, which often creates a hooded eye appearance.

As we age, our facial skin loses elasticity, so removing loose skin can improve the overall appearance of the eye by creating a younger look.

To complete the upper eye surgery, Dr. Kitto places an incision along the natural crease in the eyelid and then removes the excess skin and tissue that is causing either functional or aesthetic concern.

On the other hand, lower eyelid surgery, or lower blepharoplasty, really focuses on reducing the appearance of puffiness from under the eye. Aging skin can impact the contour of the eyelid and give the appearance of droopy skin or heavy undereye bags.

A lower lid surgery normally involves an incision just below the lower lash line. Excess skin and fat is then removed and the skin is lifted and tightened to give a smoother and more youthful appearance.

Both upper and lower eyelid surgery require general anesthesia and the procedure can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 2 hours. Patients undergoing the procedure are released the same day, but will need someone to drive them home and stay with them for at least 24 hours post-procedure.

Some swelling and bruising are normal post-op symptoms and should subside within a couple of weeks. Typically, results from eyelid surgery are instantly noticeable and can last for several years

What are the benefits of undergoing upper & lower eyelid surgery simultaneously?

Choosing to have an upper or lower eyelid surgery can give you stunning results towards your goals. Both provide immediate improvement to the appearance of eyes and can last for several years.

Often, surgeons will recommend having both upper and lower eyelid surgery done simultaneously. There are several benefits to this treatment path.
- Having both procedures completed in one surgery reduces the need to go under anesthesia twice and eliminates the need for two operating room appointments, saving time and money.
- Combining the procedures also reduces preparation time and recovery time. One surgery means one recovery period. This simultaneous recovery can also help give eyes a balanced appearance as the healing takes place together.
If you are considering getting upper and lower eyelid surgery either separately or simultaneously, take a look at Dr. Kitto’s before and after gallery to see some of the results you can expect.

Whether you are looking to eliminate puffiness, remove a hooded eye appearance, or lift skin that may be impairing vision, an eyelid surgery near you in Richmond, VA may be the best choice to reach your goals.

If you would like more information about eyelid surgery with Dr. Kitto, or wish to schedule a online consultation, call us today at 804.294.1777.
February 2, 2022
How and why breast implants are becoming popular among women in USA?
Cosmetic procedures can address a number of physical concerns. One of the most popular cosmetic surgeries over the past several decades is breast augmentation – commonly called breast implant surgery or breast enlargement.
What is breast enlargement surgery?

Breast enlargement surgery adds fullness and volume to the breast by placing a customized implant in a pocket created in the breast tissue. Your surgeon will help you decide what size, shape, and fill option will best meet your personal goals and what will work best with your body shape and size. Implants can be round or teardrop shaped and filled with either saline or silicone.

The procedure includes a small incision in either the armpit or in the dark skin around the nipples to minimize the appearance of scarring. The size of the incision depends on the type and size of implant selected.

Once the incision has been made, the implant is inserted into a small pocket created under existing tissue. This pocket will heal and hold the implant in place.

There may be bruising and tenderness post-procedure, but recovery time is normally a couple of weeks. Results are immediately visible and continue to improve as initial swelling and bruising goes away.

The decision to undergo the procedure can help you feel more like yourself and should be discussed with an experienced professional. To get breast enlargement in Richmond VA, visit a skilled plastic surgeon like Dr. Kitto, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.

Why is breast enlargement so popular?

There are many reasons why this procedure has become one of the most popular, including the immediate results and minimal downtime. Enhancing your breasts with implants can bring balance to your figure, correct insecurities, and more.

Here are 5 reasons why breast implant surgery is so popular among women:
- 1. Implants can balance body proportion.
Uneven figures can cause embarrassment, especially in swimwear or undress Whether you naturally have smaller breasts or have lost volume due to pregnancy, nursing, or weight loss, breast implants can help balance your body proportions to reach your ideal figure.
- 2. Implants can increase self-esteem.
Unfortunately, breast size is often directly related to how attractive or desirable a woman may feel. The majority of women that have undergone breast implant surgery share that they become more self confident and self assured as soon as the procedure is done.

The procedure can immediately impact how you feel about your physical appearance by enhancing the size and shape of your breasts.

Increased self-esteem can have impacts beyond the physical, such as being more comfortable in relationships or in professional settings. Poor confidence has also been linked to poor health and improving self-esteem can help you make better choices about your self-care resulting in a healthier you overall.
- 3. Implants can correct asymmetry.
Asymmetrical breasts can have negative impacts on self-confidence, clothing options, and comfort in appearance. Asymmetry can be caused by estrogen levels being uneven, growth during puberty, and several other factors. Women with asymmetrical breasts can have difficulty finding clothing that is both flattering and downplays uneven breasts.

Breast augmentation can improve symmetry of the bust line, immediately improving confidence and providing additional options in clothing.
- 4. Implants can restore a youthful appearance.
As we age, our bodies go through a number of experiences that can impact the appearance of our bodies. Breasts naturally sag and lose volume through aging; add in pregnancies, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, etc. and chest appearance is greatly altered through the years.

Breast implant surgery can correct flattened breasts or loose skin and restore volume. Fuller and higher breasts can improve your posture and help to create a younger and more youthful appearance.
- 5. Implants can enhance wardrobe options.
Having a balanced figure, correcting asymmetry, and improving posture can make you realize that you have been limiting your clothing options. Breast implants can give you the opportunity to wear new styles and experiment with trends.

Breast implants can also give you the confidence to show off your new figure in swimwear or styles that you wouldn’t have been able to fill out before.

Breast augmentation surgery offers so many benefits to women who are unsatisfied with the size, shape, or symmetry of their breasts. Women can find a lot of empowerment in feeling comfortable in their own skin.

Breast enlargement is a safe and simple procedure that can boost self-esteem and correct body concerns. Dr.Kitto can help you feel better and confident about your body. Contact Kitto Plastic Surgery in Richmond, VA by calling 804-294-1777 OR Schedule a special weekend appointment to discuss your breast implant surgery.
January 18, 2022
EYELID SURGERY: Why it is the most demanding & popular cosmetic procedure.

Whether it’s through aging, the slowdown of collagen production, or genetics, eyelids can begin showing our age by drooping or sagging. Eyelid skin is thinner than other areas of the face, so these changes tend to be more noticeable sooner.
In addition to making us look older, drooping eyelids can impact vision and even impede daily tasks and activities. You don’t have to live with the signs or symptoms of aging skin, though.

Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is one of the most common and in demand cosmetic procedures and continues to grow in popularity!

A blepharoplasty often called an upper and lower eyelid surgery, is an outpatient procedure that removes excess fat, skin, and muscle that can gather above and below the eye. It doesn’t require overnight stays in a hospital, but you will receive specific after care instructions. Most patients can return to normal daily activities including strenuous exercise within 1-2 weeks.

Dr. Kitto is a leading plastic surgeon in Richmond, VA with years of experience completing eyelid surgery, she can help customize your treatment plan to see results from this in-demand procedure!

If you have been considering a blepharoplasty, here are four reasons why the popular procedure may be right for you:

1. Results are very customized.
If you take a look at eyelid surgery before and after photos, you’ll notice that each client has a very unique result. Every face is different, and your procedure will be customized to you.

To achieve targeted results based on your personal goals, your plastic surgeon will determine whether you should have upper eyelid surgery, lower eyelid surgery or double eyelid surgery.

2. The visual impact is substantial.
Eyes are often one of the first features that our companions notice and the appearance of sagging brows, under eye bags, and drooping eyelids can create an older appearance.

As our faces age, the thin skin around the eye loses the ability to bounce back through our expressions. This creates a loose appearance and showcases fine lines and wrinkles. Cosmetic eyelid surgery helps to alleviate these concerns – the removal of excess tissue can create a stunning before and after.

3. Vision obstacles can be addressed.
The deterioration of skin around the eyes can also create vision problems, such as a decrease in peripheral vision. Functional eyelid surgery can address these concerns.

By removing excess tissue, upper and lower eyelid surgery restores the function of the eye while also providing a more open and smooth appearance.

4. Eyelid surgery is universally helpful.
Since our faces show our age sooner than we’d like, almost everyone is a good candidate for an eyelid surgery. Both men and women have enjoyed stunning results from the procedure.

As long as you are in overall good health and do not have any serious eye conditions, the Kitto Plastic Surgery team can assist you with your eyelid goals.

Whether you are looking to brighten a tired appearance, minimize under eye dark circles or “bags”, or lift skin that may be impairing vision, an eyelid surgery near you in Richmond, VA may be the best choice to reach your goals.

If you would like more information about eyelid surgery with Dr. Kitto, or wish to schedule a online consultation, call us today at 804.294.1777.

December 28, 2021
Which breast implant shape is best for you? Teardrop Breast Implants OR Round Breast Implants.

There are a variety of reasons why women may become unsatisfied with their breast shape or size. To combat these concerns, many women turn to breast augmentation, one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the country.
Depending on the client’s specific concern and goal, surgeons may recommend a breast enhancement or enlargement. These procedures provide results for women that may have been born with small breasts, women that have lost volume after pregnancy and breastfeeding, or women that have concerns about loose skin.

The procedure involves adding a silicone or saline implant that has a shape specific to the client’s goals to bring fullness and to shape the breast.

Understanding Implants Shapes

Historically speaking, round breast implants were the only choice available for cosmetic procedures, but there have been many updates to the options available. Clients, working alongside their surgeon, can now choose among a variety of implant shapes that work to meet their goals in relation to their anatomical structure.

Round breast implants typically have a smooth exterior and can be filled with either saline or silicone. On the other hand, teardrop implants are normally filled with silicone that create a more stable appearance. There are also teardrop saline implants that may be an appropriate option for your treatment plan.

One of the more noticeable differences between the two implant shapes is while reclined or lying down. Round implants, especially those filled with saline, will allow the liquid to settle throughout the shell, showing the round shape. Teardrop silicone implants, on the other hand, are less likely to change shape, retaining the natural teardrop shape of the breast.

The Procedure with Silicone vs. Saline Implants

Regardless of whether you are using silicone or saline implants, the procedure works similarly. Your surgeon will make a small incision in a discreet location, such as the armpit, the skin under the breast, or even near the nipple if there is darker coloring.

Once the incision is made, the breast tissue is lifted to make a small pocket for the breast implant.

The implant options:

Silicone implants:

Silicone implants are filled with a silicone gel that is more viscous than saline, this means that it flows and moves within the implant capsule and provides natural-looking and feeling results. The silicone filling is less likely to ripple or shift over time, but they do require slightly larger incisions for insertion as they are pre-filled.

Saline implants:

Saline implants are filled with sterile salt water and are inserted into the pocket and then filled to the desired volume. Generally, they are less expensive than their saline counterparts. These are slightly more likely to rippling over time which may alter the desired results.

With both implant options, clients may feel sore after the procedure, but that shouldn’t last for more than a few days. Results will be immediately visible and will improve as swelling and initial bruising subsides.

Choosing Your Treatment Plan

Breast enhancement fat transfer is not a one size fits all procedure; your surgeon will work with you to determine what goals are possible for your specific body. Since saline implants move like water, the more viscous silicone implants are often more natural feeling and looking.

Teardrop silicone implants are often used for breast enlargement in more petite women that don’t have much natural breast tissue to work with. The implants can adjust size and shape without needing an excessive amount of volume and tend to provide a more natural look for smaller women.

Round implants will help women achieve more fullness to the top part of the breast and can give a curvier appearance to your silhouette.

Different implant shapes and fills will impact your final results and you should consider what your goals are for your appearance.

Round implants give more lift and cleavage than teardrop implants. Teardrop implants, with their oval shape, add more mass and volume to the bottom of the breast that enhances the natural shape and slope of the breast without providing direct cleavage.

As with all treatments, it’s important to work with your surgeon directly to develop a customized plan. If you’re interested in breast implants in Richmond, VA, make a consultation appointment with Dr. Kitto today by calling 804.294.1777.

December 16, 2021
How is ‘No Cut Tummy Tuck’ performed?

Tummy tucks are popular procedures and on many individuals’ wish lists. The surgery is invasive and requires recovery time, though, so surgeons have developed an alternative treatment method – the no cut tummy tuck.
What is a no-cut tummy tuck?

It is important for those interested in skin toning/tightening and targeted fat reduction to work with a trained and practiced surgeon to develop their treatment plan.

A popular alternative to a full abdominoplasty (or tummy tuck surgery) has been coined as the ‘no-cut tummy tuck’. A no-cut tummy tuck focuses on contouring the stomach and reducing fat through a combination of less invasive procedures, such as liposuction or CoolSculpting.

The liposuction used in a no-cut tummy tuck can be the traditional variation that uses suction or can use laser liposuction devices. CoolSculpting, or focused freezing of fat cells, is often used as a component of the no-cut tummy tuck treatment plan.

A no-cut tummy tuck, since it is less invasive, doesn’t result in the recovery and down time that an abdominoplasty does.

What’s the traditional method?

Tummy tuck surgery, or abdominoplasty, involves removing loose, sagging skin and repairing stretched or extended muscles in the abdomen in order to craft a smooth and toned tummy area. Procedure participants enjoy a result of a firmly contoured stomach.

Often, tummy tuck surgeons will combine the procedure with targeted liposuction to provide great results. Liposuction directly removes fat cells while a tuck surgery lifts and tightens the skin and muscles.

During a tummy tuck surgery, an incision is made along the abdomen and the surgeon separates the skin from the muscles. Next, the skin is stretched away, and excess is cut away to provide tightness.

What are the benefits of having a no-cut tummy tuck instead of the traditional surgery?

While every treatment plan should be customized to your individual goals and needs, a no-cut tummy tuck provides several benefits.

The first is a low time requirement. The procedure doesn’t require anesthesia or in-patient recovery time and usually only takes a few hours. After the day of procedure time commitment, most individuals that undergo the treatment can return to most of their routine immediately. There may be some bruising and swelling, but normal life activities should be able to be maintained.

There are also financial benefits to choosing the no-cut option. Since the procedure doesn’t require “going under” and isn’t an in-patient treatment, the total cost of the no-cut option is lower.

Unlike a traditional tummy tuck surgery, the no-cut option does not require the invasiveness of your abdomen being cut open to stretch muscles and remove skin.

How will I know what will work for me?

If you are trying to decide on a treatment plan, get in touch with a tummy tuck surgeon near you – Kitto Plastic surgery is proud to offer tummy tuck surgery, liposuction and CoolSculpting as treatment options in Virginia.

You’ll also want to share your desired results and expectations with your surgeon to help determine the best treatment plan.

Dr. Kitto is an experienced surgeon that can assist you in determining the most effective way to reach your desired goals and can personalize treatment combinations to fit your needs and your body. Schedule your online consultation OR by calling us at 804-294-1777.

December 8, 2021
CoolSculpting | Fast, Easy, Convenient Fat Reduction

Working out and eating well have long since been hailed as the only way to reach fitness and body goals. It can take years of hard work and dedication to slim down, but there’s no guarantee that your personal problem areas will take the hint.
Specifically, as our bodies age, there are stubborn areas of fat deposits that are slow to respond to diet and exercise…or worse, they just never respond. There is a quick and easy solution, though, and it doesn’t involve surgery!

What is CoolSculpting treatment?

CoolSculpting is an innovative technology that takes advantage of the growing cryotherapy efforts. Cryolipolysis is the scientific name for the fat-freezing procedure that allows medical professionals to sculpt your body through treatment.

It is an FDA-approved medical procedure that eliminates fat cells through freezing technology. It works by destroying fat cells by freezing them which allows the body to dispose of the cells as waste.

The body has a set amount of fat cells that enlarge or shrink through weight gain or loss, respectively. Losing weight doesn’t remove or eliminate fat cells. CoolSculpting treatments reduce the number of fat cells in the target area, effectively sculpting the body for an even distribution of fat cells.

CoolSculpting is specifically designed to target unwanted fat cells that are so often resistant to diet and exercise. The treatments destroy the fat cells while preserving surrounding healthy cells, such as muscle.

The technology is safe and effective in creating long-lasting results. It’s non-invasive and requires no incisions, no anesthesia, no recovery period, and no discomfort.

For more information on how effective CoolSculpting is, take a look at this blog post.

What areas can be treated with CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting treatment can be effectively performed on a variety of areas and uses a series of applicators in different shapes and sizes in order to treat hard-to-reach areas. Areas such as the chin, jawline, upper arms, thighs, back, love handles, and other areas of the stomach can be treated.

What makes CoolSculpting so convenient?

Convenience starts with finding a CoolSculpting provider near you – Kitto Plastic Surgery is proud to offer the service in Richmond.

CoolSculpting is a non-surgical treatment – that means no need to go under anesthesia, no incisions that need time to heal, and no recovery time. As a non-invasive procedure, CoolSculpting treatment sessions require less than 60 minutes of time at the center, allowing you to continue with your normal daily schedule.

The highly effective fat reduction procedure also does not require formal aftercare that a procedure such as liposuction surgery. Liposuction requires anesthesia and in-office recovery, plus additional recovery time in addition to medications and wound management. All of these increase resources necessary for the treatment, both time and money.

Finally, many clients begin seeing results in one to two CoolSculpting treatment sessions. Each client and treatment plan is different, but a consultation with Dr. Kitto will provide you with a course of action to get you more toned and achieve the slimmer appearance you’re after.

Kitto Plastic Surgery is proud to offer innovative and effective CoolSculpting services to clients in Richmond, Virginia. If you wish to get long-lasting results from CoolSculpting, schedule an online appointment OR call us at 804-294-1777.

November 22, 2021
Reverse the Effects of Aging With a Facelift
Do the natural effects of aging have you feeling down? Are you worried about what you see when you look in the mirror? Good news, you’re not alone. Millions of other people feel the same way, which is why they turn to plastic surgery to help alleviate those concerns.
For many, the answer lies in a facelift—what we call a rhytidectomy—a cosmetic procedure that reduces the visible signs of aging in and around a patient’s face and neck, helping to reverse the common effects of aging and providing a boosted sense of self.

Frustrated with frown lines? Worried about wrinkles? Schedule a consultation with us today to find out what a facelift can do for you.

What Is a Facelift?

A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a hugely popular cosmetic procedure that alleviates the visible signs of aging, including sagging, deep-set wrinkles and creases, double chins, and “turkey neck” (a condition that’s caused by weakening muscles that have lost their elasticity over time, allowing neck skin to droop). This surgery removes loose skin and excess fat through a series of small incisions, and is performed on more than 130,000 Americans every year.

Oftentimes, this surgery is completed in conjunction with other like procedures, such as blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), rhinoplasty (nose job), or with the addition of dermal fillers. All of these options offer patients a more youthful appearance.

Why Are Facelifts Performed?

Over time, our skin loses its natural pull and elasticity, resulting in drooping and sagging at the bottom of the face. Wrinkles along the neck, jaw and forehead may develop as well. These effects are perfectly natural and normal, but not always welcome.

Facelift surgery helps minimize those physical side effects by reducing their prominence. Once complete, a facelift can restore their once-lost youth, helping self-conscious people feel more attractive and more confident in their appearance.

Types of Facelifts

A facelift isn’t just one single procedure. In fact, the umbrella of facelifts includes a variety of procedures that can rejuvenate a patient’s appearance. While there are many options your board-certified plastic surgeon should review with you, here are the three most common procedures:

Mini-Facelift

A mini-facelift allows cosmetic surgeons to tighten the skin by using smaller incisions along the hairline to remove excess tissue. This option is known commonly as a “weekend facelift” due to its quick recovery time, allowing patients to return to normal activity in just a few days.

The results of this procedure are less dramatic, so it’s an ideal option for younger patients who are noticing the earlier signs of aging but aren’t quite ready for a full facelift.

Mid-Facelift

A mid-facelift is commonly used to treat the middle area of the face—typically the cheeks and cheekbones. This surgery involves the creation of small incisions along the hairline above the ears and inside the patient’s mouth, allowing the repositioning of fat and tissue near the cheeks to tighten skin.

This procedure is ideal for patients who don’t yet have sagging neck skin, improving facial definition and creating a younger appearance through contouring.

Traditional Facelift

A traditional facelift is the typical facelift. During this procedure, incisions are made along the ears, hairline, and chin to tighten fae muscles and neck skin. To assist in the creation of a defined neckline, bundles of muscle may be sutured together and excess fat is removed as needed.

This option provides the full effect that many patients expect, providing a premium level of correction to restore the patient’s youthful appearance.

Does the Surgery Hurt?

The question everyone wants the answer to: Will it hurt? We’ll be honest, it’s not going to tickle. While facelift surgery itself isn’t necessarily painful, the after effects may be.

Many patients are put under anesthesia for the procedure to sidestep any painful side effects during the surgery. But, as with any surgery, there is a level of pain and discomfort in the days following as the skin and muscle tissue begins to heal.

The good news is that, by taking prescription medication and following your doctor’s post-operative instructions, pain and lingering side effects and can be reduced or alleviated by some degree.

Road to Recovery

No surgery is 100% safe. Complications occur, but everything we do is done with your safety in mind. With that, here’s what you can look forward to during your recovery:
- Bruising and swelling are at their worst 2–3 days after facelift surgery
- Recovery typically takes upwards of two weeks, with most patients resuming normal activity after four weeks
- Sutures are often removed 5–10 days after surgery
- Scars will fade over time, but that process could take up to a year
- Following your doctor’s post-operative instructions will speed up your recovery
- Avoid smoking, sun exposure, and alcohol to maintain your new look
Looking for a plastic surgeon in Richmond, VA? Dr. Kitto can help. Schedule your consultation or call us at 804- 294-1777 to find out what facelift surgery can do for you today.
October 28, 2021