FAQs

The cost of breast implant removal varies depending on the complexity of the surgery and any additional procedures like a breast lift. Contact our office for a personalized consultation and pricing information.

Recovery after breast implant removal usually takes 2-4 weeks. Patients may experience swelling and discomfort initially, but most return to normal activities within a few weeks. Drains may be used, and following post-operative care instructions is important for optimal recovery.

Breast implant removal is generally a safe procedure, but as with any surgery, there are risks such as infection, bleeding, scarring, and changes in breast sensation. Dr. Hirsch carefully assesses each patient to minimize these risks.

Yes, in many cases, breast implants can be removed and replaced during the same surgery. Dr. Hirsch will assess your specific situation and discuss whether replacement or alternative options like fat grafting are right for you.

If your implants have caused significant stretching of the breast skin, a breast lift may be recommended after implant removal. Dr. Hirsch will evaluate your breast tissue during the consultation and recommend the best approach to achieve a natural and youthful appearance.

The breast implant capsule is a layer of scar tissue that naturally forms around the implant. This is different from the silicone shell of the implant. Dr. Hirsch, a plastic surgeon, performs a total capsulectomy, removing the capsule and implant together to minimize exposure to any remaining silicone.

Large implants can stretch the skin, and after removal, breasts may look saggy or deflated. Dr. Hirsch often recommends a breast lift to reshape the breasts, tighten the skin, and reposition the nipple for the best appearance. The type of lift will depend on your breast size and the amount of sagging.

A breast lift (mastopexy) and a breast reduction (reduction mammoplasty) are similar in that both procedures involve lifting the nipple and reshaping the breast. The main difference is that breast reduction surgery involves removing a significant amount of breast tissue, making the breasts smaller, while a breast lift only removes excess skin and a small amount of tissue to create a more youthful contour. Both procedures address sagging, but breast reduction is typically performed when a patient wants smaller, lighter breasts.

The type of scarring after a breast reduction depends on how much breast tissue is removed and your specific surgical plan. The most common scar patterns include:

• Vertical Scar: A scar around the nipple that extends vertically down the breast.
• Anchor Scar: A scar around the nipple, vertically down the breast, and horizontally along the breast crease.

Nipple sensation after breast reduction surgery can vary. Some patients experience increased sensitivity, while others notice a decrease in sensation. The outcome depends on how much tissue is removed and the specifics of the surgery. In most cases, changes in sensation are temporary, but permanent changes are possible.

To maintain perky, lifted breasts after breast reduction surgery, Dr. Hirsch may recommend using internal support, such as Galaflex mesh. This dissolvable mesh acts like an internal bra, providing additional support, especially for patients with thinner skin or older patients. The mesh dissolves over time but leaves behind extra support to help maintain the breast’s shape after your breast reduction.

Yes, breast reduction surgery is often covered by insurance if it is deemed medically necessary. Symptoms such as chronic back, neck, or shoulder pain, rashes, or difficulties with physical activity may qualify you for insurance coverage. Dr. Hirsch’s office will work with you to confirm whether your procedure is covered by your insurance plan.

Breastfeeding after breast reduction surgery is possible for many women, but the ability to breastfeed depends on how much breast tissue remains. Studies suggest that around 60% of women can successfully breastfeed after the procedure, but supplementation with formula may be needed. Dr. Hirsch will discuss your specific case during your consultation.

You can start light activity, such as walking, the same day you come home after breast reduction surgery. Avoid prolonged bed rest to reduce the risk of blood clots. More strenuous activities, including exercise, can typically be resumed after 4-6 weeks, once your incisions have fully healed. Dr. Hirsch will provide a personalized timeline based on your recovery after your breast reduction surgery.

Most patients return to work about 1-2 weeks after breast reduction surgery, depending on how physically demanding their job is. Dr. Hirsch will give you personalized recommendations based on your recovery progress and job requirements.

Dr. Hirsch may use drains during your breast reduction surgery, depending on how much tissue is removed. If drains are placed, you will be given detailed instructions on how to care for them and track their output. Drains are typically removed within a few days, and you can shower normally with them in place after your breast reduction.

The appearance of scars after a breast lift depends on the type of procedure performed. For mild sagging, a circumareolar mastopexy leaves a scar around the areola, which is minimally visible. For moderate sagging, a circumvertical mastopexy creates a scar around the areola and extends vertically down the breast. For more severe sagging, a Wise pattern mastopexy (anchor incision) leaves a scar around the areola, vertically down the breast, and along the inframammary fold under the breast. During your consultation, Dr. Hirsch will discuss which technique is best for your specific needs and what scarring to expect.

Yes, Galaflex mesh can be used during your breast lift surgery to help maintain a perky, lifted appearance. This dissolvable mesh acts like an internal bra, providing extra support as your body heals. Over time, the mesh dissolves, and your body replaces it with collagen, leaving behind no artificial material. Dr. Hirsch often recommends this option for patients looking for longer-lasting lift results without the need for implants.

Changes in nipple sensitivity after a breast lift vary depending on the type of procedure and the degree of sagging (ptosis). More extensive lifts, especially for patients with significant sagging, may result in temporary or permanent changes to nipple sensation. If implants are added during the lift, this can further impact sensitivity. Dr. Hirsch will explain the potential for changes in sensation during your consultation.

In most cases, breast lift surgery is considered a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by insurance. However, Dr. Hirsch’s office can help you explore financing options to make the procedure more affordable.

Many women are able to breastfeed after breast lift surgery, but the ability to breastfeed depends on the specific technique used and how much breast tissue is altered. While some women can successfully breastfeed, others may need to supplement with formula. Dr. Hirsch will discuss your specific case and the likelihood of breastfeeding after surgery.

After your breast lift surgery, you should start walking the same day to promote circulation and prevent complications. Most patients can return to light activities within a few days, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for 4–6 weeks, or until Dr. Hirsch gives you clearance.

Most patients return to work within 1–2 weeks after their breast lift depending on the nature of their job. For physically demanding jobs, a longer recovery time may be required. Dr. Hirsch will provide a personalized recovery plan based on your specific situation.

In most cases, drains are not required after a breast lift. Dr. Hirsch will discuss whether drains are needed based on your specific surgical plan, but typically, the procedure does not require them.

Breast implant revision surgery is a procedure to correct or improve the results of a previous breast augmentation. It can involve replacing old implants, changing implant size, addressing complications such as capsular contracture, or improving the overall appearance of the breasts.

Reasons for breast implant revision include implant rupture, capsular contracture, dissatisfaction with size or shape, rippling, or implant malposition. Some patients also switch implant types (saline ⇄ silicone).

Capsular contracture occurs when the scar tissue around the implant hardens, causing discomfort and distorted shape. Treatment usually involves capsulectomy (removal of scar tissue) and often replacing the implant.

Breast implants aren't lifetime devices and typically last 10–15 years. Patients should monitor for changes and consult if they experience issues.

Yes—many patients choose to switch implant types during a revision. Dr. Hirsch will help you select the best option for your goals.

Recovery is similar to initial augmentation: light activities within a week, full return to normal after 4–6 weeks. Dr. Hirsch provides detailed post-op instructions.

Dr. Hirsch often uses the same incisions from your previous surgery to minimize scarring. If new incisions are needed, they’ll be placed discreetly.

Revision can address rupture, rippling, capsular contracture, implant displacement (e.g., bottoming out or lateral movement), and dissatisfaction with size or shape.

If you experience discomfort, visual changes in breast shape, or implant-related issues like rupture or contracture, a thorough assessment can determine if revision is right for you.

Yes—many patients combine revision with a breast lift (mastopexy), fat grafting, or liposuction. Dr. Hirsch will discuss the best plan tailored to your aesthetic goals.

After deciding on the size of your breast implant, the next step is to choose between silicone implants or saline implants. Silicone implants tend to feel more natural, while saline implants allow for smaller incisions and easier adjustments.

Dr. Hirsch encourages patients to consider how noticeable they want their breast size to be and recommends bringing photos of desired results and a bra in that size. He uses a sizing system during consultation to determine the best fit.

Breast augmentation can restore volume. In cases of significant sagging, a breast lift (mastopexy) may be required in addition to implants to improve both shape and size.

Changes in nipple sensation vary. Some women experience increased or decreased sensitivity, while others notice no change—most shifts are temporary but may be long-term. Dr. Hirsch will discuss expectations during consultation.

If you want both added volume and lift, you may be a candidate for a mastopexy-augmentation—a combined breast lift and augmentation procedure tailored to your goals.

Implants can be placed submuscular, subglandular, or dual plane. Submuscular offers a natural look, subglandular offers a pronounced appearance, and dual plane provides a hybrid effect. Dr. Hirsch will help determine the best option based on your body and goals.

Incisions can be periareolar, inframammary, or transaxillary. The best incision depends on your anatomy and implant size. Dr. Hirsch will advise which approach provides the best results for you.

Most women can breastfeed post-surgery, though success depends on incision type—e.g., inframammary incisions tend to preserve nipple function best.

Walking is encouraged the same day as surgery. Light activity is advised for the first 2 weeks, with full exercise typically resumed by 4–6 weeks based on healing and comfort.

Most patients return to work within 3–7 days if it’s desk-related. Strenuous jobs may require longer rest—Dr. Hirsch will create a personalized recovery timeline.

Dr. Hirsch typically does not use drains for breast augmentation, but if they are needed, their care and removal will be thoroughly explained during your follow-up visits.

Breast implants are not lifetime devices. Silicone or saline implants last many years, but should be monitored over time and replaced if complications arise.

Some slight enlargement of the areola may occur depending on implant size and your anatomy, but it is typically minimal.

Some insurance companies cover gynecomastia surgery for patients while others do not. It is best to check with your insurance company. Dr. Hirsch and his staff will help you determine coverage for your procedure.

Minimally invasive gynecomastia surgery may be an option if you only have excess fat without breast tissue or skin. In some cases, liposuction alone can correct the condition. However, if glandular tissue or excess skin is present, a small incision around the areola or a staged procedure may be required, including the use of a compressive dressing post-operatively for several weeks. Dr. Hirsch will evaluate this during your consultation.

It’s not uncommon to have gynecomastia on only one side, but it’s important to undergo a full medical exam beforehand, as asymmetrical breast enlargement could indicate an underlying medical condition. Nipple discharge or palpable masses also warrant further evaluation.

If you undergo liposuction-only gynecomastia correction, you can usually resume regular exercise around 2 weeks after surgery. If skin excision is performed, light exercise typically resumes after 2–3 weeks, and you can gradually return to full activity by 5–6 weeks, as cleared by Dr. Hirsch.

Recovery time depends on your type of work and surgical technique. Desk jobs often allow return in about a week, while more strenuous jobs may require up to 4–6 weeks of recovery. Dr. Hirsch will create a personalized plan.

After liposuction-only procedures, drains are not used. If Dr. Hirsch removes excess skin during male breast reduction, drains may be employed and will be removed in the first week. Your care instructions will include drain management.

Fat transfer, or fat grafting, is a permanent procedure! Around 60% of the fat injected into the breasts will survive. However, if you gain weight, the fat will increase in size—if you lose weight, the transferred fat will decrease in size.

Around 60% of the fat will survive after fat grafting. Fat transfer to breasts is different than a Brazilian Butt Lift; you typically inject less fat into the breasts to minimize the risk of calcifications and cysts. Sometimes two sessions are recommended for optimal results.

Yes, fat transfer to the breasts is commonly combined with breast implant procedures such as augmentation, revision, or during a breast lift or implant removal with mastopexy. In those cases, it’s often best to wait 3–6 months before grafting so the fat survives better.

Fat transfer usually provides a natural result, adding about half a cup size to a full cup size, depending on your starting size. Goals involving more volume may require additional sessions.

The fat is harvested via liposuction from areas such as the stomach, back, arms, or flanks. Only your own fat is used—not transplanted fat from others.

Fat transfer to the breasts is a safe and effective procedure without implant risks. However, injecting too much at once may lead to fat necrosis, calcifications, or oil cysts—so the procedure is performed conservatively for optimal results.

In most cases, nipple sensation remains unchanged. However, some patients may experience increased or decreased sensitivity following the procedure.

The method Dr. Hirsch uses preserves most nipple ducts, allowing milk to flow. However, intact sensation and a functioning neuroendocrine system are also essential for breastfeeding success.

Once the stent is removed and your incisions are healed, light exercise can typically resume. Most patients can return to normal activities by 2–3 weeks after surgery.

Due to minimal pain or discomfort, most patients return to work within 2–3 days. Those with physically demanding jobs may need 2–3 weeks of recovery.

No, drains are not used after inverted nipple correction surgery.

There are implant-based options (one-stage, two-stage expanders) and tissue-based options like latissimus or DIEP flaps. Dr. Hirsch evaluates your goals, anatomy, health history, and whether you need implant or natural tissue reconstruction to recommend the best approach.

Yes—mandated by law (Women's Health and Cancer Rights Act), reconstruction after mastectomy and procedures for symmetry are covered. Dr. Hirsch’s team will verify coverage as part of your planning.

Possibly—but radiation can affect skin and tissue quality. Some methods (e.g., autologous flaps) may be better post‑radiation. Dr. Hirsch will review your medical history and offer the safest, effective option.

Most original breast tissue is removed during mastectomy, so true breastfeeding typically isn’t possible on the reconstructed side. Reconstruction restores volume and appearance but not milk‑producing function.

Yes—most reconstruction types (implants, expanders, flaps) involve drains to prevent fluid buildup; these are removed in follow‑up visits.

Walking is encouraged soon after surgery. Full exercise typically resumes after 4–6 weeks, depending on the method. Dr. Hirsch will clear you based on your individual recovery.

Most patients return to office work within 1–2 weeks. More physically demanding jobs may require additional healing time, depending on whether implants or flaps were used.

Yes! Your upper eyelid blepharoplasty can be performed in the office under local anesthesia. If you would like to discuss this option, please ask Dr. Hirsch during your consultation.

Start walking the same night as your blepharoplasty or browlift. Continue only light activity for the first 2 weeks and keep your head elevated while sleeping. Dr. Hirsch typically clears patients for light exercise (e.g. treadmill, bike) between 2–4 weeks and full activity around 6 weeks, depending on healing.

Return to work timing depends on your job type. Desk-based roles may resume after about 1 week, while physically demanding work may need more recovery time. Dr. Hirsch will advise based on your personal healing progress.

Yes—it’s best to have 2–3 specific areas you’d like to improve (e.g., a nasal bump, tip shape, or width). Dr. Hirsch will focus on those during surgery to deliver your ideal result.

Generally no—cosmetic rhinoplasty is considered elective and isn’t covered. However, if performed for breathing (functional rhinoplasty or septoplasty), it may be covered by insurance.

Rhinoplasty primarily addresses appearance. If you have breathing issues, Dr. Hirsch can also perform functional procedures—such as septoplasty—during the same surgery.

In an open rhinoplasty, there’s a small incision along the columella (underside of the nose). The scar typically heals well and is barely noticeable.

Avoid getting the nasal splint wet while it’s in place (usually 3–7 days). You may sponge bath and rinse your hair, but take care not to soak the splint.

Yes, it is definitely possible to perform cosmetic adjustments at the same time as septoplasty or breathing improvement surgery. However, insurance generally does not cover cosmetic procedures although they will often cover the functional components of the procedures. Dr. Hirsch and his staff will work with you to help figure out which parts of your surgery are and are not covered by insurance.

If Dr. Hirsch does not use nasal packing in your surgery, you will notice an improvement in breathing immediately after surgery. This improvement may decrease in the next few days as the nose becomes swollen and breathing becomes more difficult, but it will continue to improve as swelling decreases.

If you are only interested in improving your breathing and have a deviated septum, the septoplasty procedure will not change the appearance of your nose. If there are other components to your breathing difficulty such as internal or external valve collapse, then the procedures that may be required to improve your breathing can subtly change the appearance of your nose.

If you are only interested in a septoplasty and do not want any cosmetic adjustments to your nose, a standard septoplasty can be performed from inside your nose without creating an external scar.

While it is true that there are many different types of facelifts, everybody’s face is different as well. Techniques that work for some types of faces won’t work as well for other faces. In general, techniques vary in the amount of dissection done below the skin, and how (and if) dissection is carried out below the deeper layer in the face called the SMAS. At the time of your consultation, Dr. Hirsch will evaluate you and will discuss with you his preferred approach based on your appearance and symptoms.

The facelift and necklift procedures are designed to correct jowling and improve the angle between the neck and the chin, as well as smooth wrinkles in the cheeks and neck. The facelift generally does not improve the fine lines above the mouth and at the corners of the mouth. Approximately 75‑80% of facial wrinkles are corrected by a facelift procedure.

The length of time that effects of the facelift and necklift last depends on many different factors. Some of them relate to the surgery and how the deeper structures of the face are treated, while other factors relate to the patient such as smoking and sun exposure. Every face is different, and Dr. Hirsch will discuss ways that you can maximize the results of your procedure.

Definitely! Facelifts and necklifts are commonly performed with other facial rejuvenation procedures such as eyelid lifts (blepharoplasty) and brow lift procedures. Dr. Hirsch also frequently performs fat grafting to correct facial lipoatrophy (fat aging) in combination with facelifts and necklifts. If you are interested in other procedures, you should discuss it with Dr. Hirsch at the time of your consultation.

Earlobe repair is generally a minor procedure that can be performed with a local anesthetic. Upon injecting the anesthetic into the patient’s earlobe with a fine gauge needle (this will sting slightly when it is first administered), the earlobe will become numb, allowing the doctor to work effectively. You will remain awake for the entire process and can even drive right after. The freezing in your earlobe will wear off after a few hours and you will feel slight discomfort in the immediate area for a short time. Thankfully, this discomfort is easily managed with over-the-counter pain medication.

Sometimes a waiting period is recommended so that the hole left behind by the gauge can shrink on its own before being surgically repaired. The typical waiting time is 2 weeks.

Smokers have impaired capacity for wound repair and propensity for skin necrosis because oxygen is the basis for wound healing and it all begins at the cellular level; smoking deprives the body of the much-needed oxygen required to repair and build cells. Oxygen also kicks off energy production and to put it simply, helps to prevent infection in open wounds and is the foundation for the rebuilding of the skin tissues.

Optimally, patients should wait eight weeks or longer before having their ears re-pierced.

If you are unhappy about crow’s feet, fine lines, or forehead wrinkles, Botox may be a good fit for you. Or, if you are a not yet showing signs of aging, but want to prevent wrinkles from causing these wrinkles, Botox treatment will help slow the formation of these wrinkles.

Botox is very effective for treating “crows feet” which are wrinkles around the sides of the eyes. It also works to treat “frown lines” which occur on the forehead. This injectable treatment can treat other facial dynamic wrinkles that are caused by the contraction of muscle.

Most patients will see the effects of their treatment after a few days, although it takes 2 weeks to reach maximum strength. The effects typically last up to 3 months.

No specific preparations are required for the procedure, but we do recommend a consultation with Dr. Hirsch. While there is no downtime, make sure to remain upright for at least 3 hours. Please let our office know if you experience side effects, avoid harsh sunlight, and avoid strenuous exercise after the procedure.

These treatments have similar mechanism of action to treat wrinkles. They have different costs and vary based on the proteins contained in the injection. The treatment technique, units per injection, and onset can vary for each product. It’s an important that a skilled and properly trained injector perform the treatment for safety and efficacy. Dr. Hirsch can work each patient to determine a personalized treatment plan with the best fit for the individual.

Yes! Botox is very effective in the treatment of migraine headaches. It is administered through a series of injections into the forehead, between the brows, on the sides of the head, and on the back of the head. It can significantly reduce both the frequency and severity of migraines.

For patients who grind their teeth or find themselves frequently clenching their jaws, Botox can be an effective solution. Botox is injected into the masseter muscle on the sides of the jaw and helps relax the muscle. This does not change chewing or cause any noticeable change in function, but over time it will help patients grind their teeth less and may reduce TMJ pain and other symptoms.

Abnormally shaped ears are very common among newborns. The best time to reshape babies ears is in the first 1–2 weeks! During this time period, there are still residual hormones from the mother that are within the circulation of the baby. These hormones cause the cartilage of the ears to remain flexible, which allows them to be molded and shaped. For ears that need minor reshaping, Dr. Hirsch will use a special stent that can be taped to the ears to make minor adjustments. The stent will remain in place for 2–4 weeks, after which time it can be removed. For ears that need more reshaping, other options such as the Earwell device, can be used.

There is no right or wrong age to perform an otoplasty. Common times to perform pediatric otoplasty include before children enter school, before entering middle school, or before high school. Adult otoplasty can be performed at any age.

It is ok to shower the next night after an otoplasty. If Dr. Hirsch places a bolster dressing on your ears after the otoplasty, you should keep it clean and dry until Dr. Hirsch removes the dressing.

Most patients do not experience much pain or discomfort following otoplasty. After surgery, Dr. Hirsch may put a special dressing on patient’s ears that will remain in place until the first post‑operative visit in order to minimize the chances of bleeding. After this is removed, patients can often return to their normal activities, typically 1–2 weeks following surgery. No drains are used during otoplasty.

The abdominoplasty scar runs along the lowest part of the abdominal wall, above the pubis, and runs from hip to hip. Depending on patient preference, the scar location can be modified and can be located slightly higher or lower as desired.

That describes a rectus diastasis, a very common occurrence after pregnancy or massive weight loss. Exercise may help tone muscles, but only surgery can remove extra skin and repair the muscle separation.

Discomfort is greatest during the first 2–3 days, but is usually significantly improved by 1 week and nearly gone by 2 weeks. Patients are also asked to wear a compressive garment and often have drains in place, especially if liposuction was performed.

Yes! You can definitely combine your mini tummy tuck with other procedures. Liposuction is especially common to have with a mini tummy tuck, as well as all sorts of breast surgeries including breast lift, breast reduction, breast implant removal/revision, or breast augmentation. In fact, performing breast surgery along with the mini tummy tuck is the classic “mommy makeover” procedure.

A full tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, removes skin from above and below the belly button and involves tightening (plication) of the abdominal wall. A mini tummy tuck only removes skin from the lower part of the abdomen, below the belly button. A mini tummy tuck can also be combined with liposuction of the full abdominal wall. A mini tummy tuck has a much faster recovery and is less uncomfortable as well.

A tummy tuck and liposuction are different procedures. A tummy tuck involves the removal of skin, while liposuction only involves the removal of fat. If you pinch your stomach skin and your fingers come together easily, you probably do not have much fat and some type of tummy tuck might be a good procedure for you. If you feel like you do not have much extra skin and you feel some fat when you pinch your skin, a mini tummy tuck with liposuction is an option.

The newest multi‑step power‑assisted liposuction technique begins with infusing a dilute local anesthetic solution. Next, a large cannula (without suction) breaks up the fat, which is then removed with suction. Finally, the cannula is used again (without suction) to smooth and contour the area. As the body heals, the skin contracts, creating a dramatic result.

Yes—liposuction is frequently combined with procedures such as breast reduction, tummy tuck, breast augmentation, and more. Dr. Hirsch will discuss your best options during the consultation.

Compressive garments help control swelling and bruising and encourage the skin to contract. We recommend wearing them for 2–3 months post‑operatively for optimal results.

No—because Dr. Hirsch uses tumescent local anesthesia, liposuction can be performed under sedation rather than general anesthesia, allowing for faster recovery.

You may start walking the same night as surgery; in fact, it is important that you are up and walking right away in order to decrease the chances of you getting a blood clot in your legs! However, you should limit your arm movement for the first 2–3 weeks after surgery, and try not to raise them above your head if possible for the first 2–3 weeks. Dr. Hirsch will work with you and help determine when you can resume regular activities.

It really depends on what type of work you do. If you work at a desk job, you might feel like going back to work after a week or so following your brachioplasty surgery. If you work at a job that requires heavy physical activity, you might need to be off work for a longer period of time.

Hernias at the site of a previous C‑section incision are very common and can cause significant pain and discomfort. In most cases, Dr. Hirsch can fix your c-section scar and hernia during the same operative procedure.

Yes! One way to improve both the appearance of the abdomen and the C‑section scar is to perform an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) surgery. During a tummy tuck, the skin on the abdominal wall is pulled tight and the extra, saggy skin is removed. Because the skin is pulled down tight, in most cases the old C‑section scar is completely removed and is replaced by the abdominoplasty scar!

C‑section scar revision is usually not covered by insurance. Dr. Hirsch and his staff will work with you to determine if c‑section is covered by your insurance company.

During body contouring procedures after weight loss, your scars can be very extensive. In general, the excess skin is removed but is replaced by a scar. Scar appearance can be somewhat unpredictable. The goal is for every scar to be a thin line, but occasionally scars can spread, become raised, or hyperpigment. Dr. Hirsch will discuss scar location and possible appearance with you at the time of your consultation.

Before undergoing body contouring surgery, two important requirements about your weight should be met: 1) your weight should be stable for 6 months 2) you should be comfortable with your current weight and not be actively trying to lose more weight. In order for Dr. Hirsch to achieve the best possible result, it is important that your weight is not changing in either direction. If you are actively losing weight, more loose skin can be created by the weight loss and you might need an additional surgery. If you gain weight, your skin will re‑expand and you will lose the contouring that was achieved with your surgery.

There is no “best” way to combine procedures. Dr. Hirsch will discuss combining procedures with you at the time of your consultation in order to give you the safest, best result possible. When procedures are combined, Dr. Hirsch will often combine upper and lower body procedures at the same time to aid the recovery process. Common combinations are tummy tuck + arm lift or thigh lift + breasts, although other combinations are equally acceptable.

In general, body contouring procedures after weight loss are not covered by insurance. Dr. Hirsch and his staff will work with you and your insurance company to help determine insurance coverage for your procedures.

The lower body lift scar runs along the lowest part of the abdominal wall, above the pubis, from hip to hip. It extends around the back, below the bathing suit line, and connects to the other side in the midpoint of the back. The upper body lift scar runs below the breasts, across the midline of the abdomen, and around the back to the midline. Both scars are planned to be placed in bra or bathing suit lines but can be adjusted slightly based on patient preference.

In some cases, you will need to take blood thinner shots after a body lift procedure to reduce the chances of a blood clot in your legs—a potentially fatal condition. Risk factors such as your weight, activity level, and general health are considered when making this decision. Dr. Hirsch will discuss this with you during your consultation.

In general, most major insurance companies do not cover body lift procedures. Dr. Hirsch’s team will work with you to help determine insurance coverage for your procedure.

After a body lift, it is very important that you walk the first night after surgery to minimize the chance of blood clots and reduce lung complications. You should continue walking at home, but avoid all strenuous activity until Dr. Hirsch clears you to resume full exercise—usually around 6 weeks post-op.

Return-to-work timing depends on your job type. Desk-based roles may allow you to return in 2–3 weeks, while physically demanding jobs may require 6–8 weeks. Dr. Hirsch will provide a personalized timeline.

Most body lift procedures require 2–4 drains. It’s important to monitor drainage output so Dr. Hirsch can determine the appropriate time for removal. You’ll be able to shower as normal while the drains are in place by cleaning the insertion sites. Drains are typically removed during a follow-up appointment.

In general, it is better to wait until you have achieved a stable weight before performing any body contouring procedure, including a thigh lift. This will help achieve a better outcome the first time around and reduce the need for a revision procedure.

You should be up and walking the day of your thigh lift surgery, but should avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for 4–6 weeks.