Female Plastic Surgery FAQs

Conveniently located to serve Columbus, Cincinnati, and Cleveland

Deciding to pursue plastic surgery is a significant, personal choice. At the Columbus Institute of Plastic Surgery, we believe that an informed patient is an empowered patient. Our team in Columbus, Cincinnati, and Cleveland is dedicated to providing clear, authoritative answers to help women make confident decisions about their bodies and goals.Ā 

At the Columbus Institute of Plastic Surgery, your satisfaction is our top priority. We provide personalized care with Dr. Shah, experiences staff, and 24/7 surgeon accessibility to ensure you feel supported before, during, and after surgery. Let us help you transition to a new, confident you.

Breast Augmentation FAQs

Breast augmentation is a popular procedure for enhancing body contours and restoring volume. Below are answers to common questions about how the procedure fits with long-term life and family plans.

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Can I breastfeed after breast augmentation?

For many women, breastfeeding is possible after augmentation. The ability to breastfeed depends on the surgical technique used, including incision location and implant placement. Our surgeons take care to preserve milk ducts and glandular tissue whenever possible.

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Will pregnancy affect my breast implants?

The implants themselves will not be affected by pregnancy. However, the natural changes in your breasts—such as tissue expansion and stretching skin—can alter the aesthetic outcome of your procedure. These changes may lead some women to consider a breast lift after they are finished having children.

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Should I wait until after having children to get breast implants?

This is a personal decision. It is safe to have breast augmentation before having children, but future pregnancies can change the size and shape of your breasts, potentially affecting your long-term results. Some patients choose to wait, while others proceed and plan for a possible revision surgery later.

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Is breast augmentation part of a mommy makeover?

Yes, breast augmentation is a central component of a mommy makeover for many women. The procedure is often combined with a breast lift to restore both volume and a more youthful breast position after pregnancy and nursing.

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Will implants interfere with mammograms or future screenings?

Breast implants do not prevent you from getting an effective mammogram. It is important to inform the imaging facility that you have implants so they can perform special displacement views to get a clear view of all breast tissue for screening.

Tummy Tuck & Mommy Makeover FAQs

Body contouring procedures like the tummy tuck address changes that diet and exercise cannot. A mommy makeover combines several treatments to restore a woman’s pre-pregnancy physique.

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What’s the difference between a tummy tuck and a mommy makeover?

A tummy tuck is a single procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen while tightening the underlying muscles.

On the other hand, a mommy makeover combines procedures personalized to your needs, typically including a tummy tuck, a breast procedure (like an augmentation or lift), and sometimes liposuction.

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How long is the recovery after a tummy tuck?

Initial recovery from a tummy tuck generally takes about two weeks, during which you must focus on rest. Most patients can return to office-based work and light daily activities at that time. Strenuous activities and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least six weeks for proper healing.

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Will a tummy tuck help with stretch marks or diastasis recti?

A tummy tuck can improve the appearance of stretch marks, particularly those on the lower abdomen, as the skin carrying them is often removed. The procedure is also the most effective solution for repairing diastasis recti, where the abdominal muscles separate during pregnancy.

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How soon after pregnancy can I have a mommy makeover?

We recommend waiting at least six months after giving birth before undergoing a mommy makeover. This allows your body sufficient time to heal, for your weight to stabilize, and to finish breastfeeding if you choose to do so.

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Are mommy makeovers customizable?

Absolutely. A mommy makeover is entirely personalized to address your specific concerns and goals. During your consultation, our plastic surgeons in Ohio will discuss which combination of breast and body procedures will best help you achieve your desired outcome.

Facelift & Mini Facelift FAQs

Facial rejuvenation procedures, such as the facelift, address visible signs of aging, including sagging skin and deep creases, to create a smoother and more youthful appearance.

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What’s the difference between a facelift and a mini facelift?

A full facelift addresses moderate to advanced signs of aging across the mid-face and neck, including jowls and sagging cheeks. A mini facelift is a less extensive alternative for patients with mild to moderate skin laxity, focusing primarily on the jawline and lower face. Mini facelift recovery time is also typically shorter.

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How long do facelift results last?

A facelift can produce long-lasting results, often making a patient appear 10-12 years younger. While the procedure does not stop the natural aging process, you will continue to look younger than you would have without it.

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Am I a candidate for a mini facelift instead of a full facelift?

Ideal candidates for a mini facelift are typically in their 40s or 50s and are just beginning to see signs of facial aging. Patients with more significant skin laxity, jowling, and neck sagging will achieve better results with a full facelift.

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Will I have visible scars after a facelift?

Dr. Bivik Shah and Dr. Alexandre Prassinos carefully place incisions within the natural creases around the ears and the hairline to make them as discreet as possible. Over time, these scars fade significantly and become nearly invisible.

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How natural will my results look?

Modern facelift techniques are designed to produce natural, not "pulled" or "tight," results. The goal is to lift and reposition the underlying facial tissues to a more youthful position, resulting in a refreshed and well-rested appearance.

Liposuction FAQs

Liposuction is a surgical procedure designed to remove stubborn pockets of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise, helping to sculpt and contour the body.

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Is liposuction a weight loss tool?

No, liposuction is not a weight loss procedure. It is a body contouring tool designed for patients who are at or near their ideal body weight but struggle with localized fat deposits. The amount of fat removed is relatively small in terms of overall weight.

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What areas of the body can be treated with liposuction?

Liposuction is a versatile procedure that can be used to treat various areas of the body. Common treatment areas for women include the abdomen, hips, thighs, buttocks, upper arms, back, and the area under the chin.

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How much downtime is required after liposuction?

Downtime varies depending on the extent of the procedure. Most patients can return to a desk job and light activities within a few days to a week. A compression garment is typically worn for several weeks to manage swelling.

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Are the results of liposuction permanent?

The fat cells removed during liposuction are gone permanently. However, it is important to maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle, as the remaining fat cells in the body can still expand, which would alter your results.

ZO Skin Health FAQS

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What makes ZO different from over‑the‑counter skincare?

ZO Skin Health is a medical‑grade line developed by dermatologist Dr. Zein Obagi. The formulas use higher‑strength, clinically backed ingredients that target skin concerns at a deeper level than cosmetic products. This means more predictable, visible results with consistent use.

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Do I need a full routine to see results?

Not necessarily. While ZO works best as a system, most patients start with a few essentials—typically a cleanser, exfoliant, and toner (the GSR protocol). These steps strengthen the skin barrier and improve how the rest of your products perform.

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What concerns can ZO help with?

ZO protocols are designed to address:

  • Acne and congestion
  • Pigmentation and sun damage
  • Redness and sensitivity
  • Fine lines, texture, and early aging
  • Overall skin dullness and uneven tone

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Contact the Columbus Institute of Plastic Surgery or book online today to schedule a consultation and discuss your options for female plastic surgery in Columbus and Dayton, Ohio. Dr. Shah and Dr. Prassinos combine extensive experience with a compassionate, patient-first approach.

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