Here are answers to the most commonly asked questions about procedures we offer. These answers may help alleviate some of your concerns. Having information prior to your consultation may help you ask questions important to you when you talk to Dr. Wells. or our skin care team. This information along with an in-person consultation will help you determine which treatments are right for you.
Surgery FAQ'S
Q: Can I have multiple surgeries done at the same time?
A: This depends upon several factors, including the overall health of the patient and the complexity of the planned procedure. During a surgical consultation with Dr. Soni-Kalma, a unique surgical plan will be recomended.
Q: What are recovery times for different plastic surgeries – specifically how long will I have to be off work?
A: Recovery time depends on both the procedure and the patient. After most breast and body procedures, those who work desk jobs can return to work after one week. The exception to this is after an abdominoplasty, where two weeks off work is recommended. Patients who need to lift more than 25 lbs at work or whose occupations are more labor-intensive will require additional time off to ensure adequate healing and optimal surgical outcomes.
Q: Are Dr. Soni-Kalma's surgeries in-patient or outpatient?
A: All surgeries are performed outpatient, either in our QuadA-certified in-office surgery suite or at a local surgery center.
Q: What is the best implant size that I should get and should I lean toward larger or smaller implants?
A: Dr. Wells makes his recommendation on implant size based on your physical size, lifestyle and the look you want to achieve. It is a good idea to bring in photographs of the size you are thinking about. For example, for athletic patients it has become popular to choose a B cup to compliment their lean physique and sporting lifestyle.
Q: If I just want a breast augmentation without a breast lift, why would I need a lift too?
A: Breast augmentation without a breast lift is appropriate in certain patients. However, many patients with concerns about their breasts' appearance require a breast lift in addition to an implant to achieve an acceptable result. This is because an implant alone will not correct loose skin or allow the nipple-areola complex to be repositioned. In these cases, if an implant is placed but no lift is performed, there is a mismatch between the implant and the native breast tissue.
Q: Is there a way to finance breast implants and what is lowest monthly cost?
A: Yes. All of our surgeries can be financed through CareCredit or Alphaeon Credit. Our surgical coordinator can help you start the financing process to make this easy and affordable for you.
Q: Can I just have liposuction without a tummy tuck?
A: In short, yes. Certain patients can achieve a nice improvement with liposuction alone. However, liposuction alone will not address loose skin and muscle separation, often the reasons for needing a tummy tuck. This is especially true after pregnancy. Liposuction combined with a tummy tuck improves the contour of the abdominal wall to a greater degree in most patients.
Q: Will insurance pay for a lower body lift after significant weight loss?
A: This depends upon the insurance carrier; however, WPSSC does not participate in insurance coverage for any procedure.
Q: Is there a chance that I will lose nipple sensation or not be able to breast feed?
A: Yes, these risks do exist after breast surgery and must be thoroughly considered before surgery is undertaken. This is due to a risk of nerve injury, resulting changes to or loss of nipple sensation. Additionally. during a breast lift or breast reduction, there is a varying degree of milk-producing tissue removed. This can cause lactation problems in the future.
Q: What is the cost to get implants?
A: The cost varies to some degree based on the type of implants chosen. This is a decision that will be made together by Dr. Soni-Kalma and her patient during a surgical consultation. Once a surgical plan is created, our surgical coordinator will provide a quote for the cost of surgery. We also offer financing options to help make the financial process simple and affordable.
Q: Where does Dr. Soni-Kalma place the incision for a breast augmentation?
A: The scar is in the inframammary fold of the breast, or the crease where the breast meets the chest wall. This approach allows the best control of the "pocket" where the implant is eventually placed, and has been shown in numerous studies to have a lower risk of complications.
Q: Are Silicone Gel implants safe?
A: Gel implants are actually the most studied medical device in use today. There is no consistent, reliable data to suggest that silicone gel breast implants lead to adverse health outcomes.
Non-surgical Frequently Asked Questions
Botox Or Dysport FAQ’S
Q: If I have one treatment of Botox or Dysport and don’t have any more, will I look worse than I did before?
A: No. Because you put the dynamic muscles at rest for a time, you may actually look better.
Q: How many syringes of Botox or Dysport will I need?
A: Botox is provided in units. The amount of units needed is determined by individual and the amount of correction needed.
Q: Where should I start when getting Botox or Dysport?
A: Get started by treating your 11’s which are the two vertical lines between your eyebrows. This will give you a refreshed and less concerned look. This simple treatment will show you the ease and subtle lift of a Botox or Dysport treatment.
Q: How much will it cost to get my 11’s or Crows Feet done?
A: It varies for each patient depending on your muscle strength and the amount of correction you want to see. Our cost is determined by units used in your treatment.
Q: What is the difference in Botox and Filler?
A: Botox is an neurotoxin that 'freezes' the muscle. This relaxes the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Dermal fillers like Restylane and Juvederm work by 'filling' areas that have lost volume.
Q: What can I do to keep from having a Brow Lift in the short term?
A: We can do what is known as a Chemical Brow Lift with Botox or Dysport. This is done non-surgically in our office and is significantly less expensive.
Latisse Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will Latisse change my eye color?
A: No. Latisse was launched specifically for external use for eyelash growth. This impression came from its original use when it was applied directly in the eye for Glaucoma patients. Dark flecks in the iris were reported by some glaucoma patients receiving this treatment.
Q: When will I see optimum results with Latisse?
A: You will begin seeing results in 4 weeks. In 16 weeks 78% of users see significant difference in lash length, color and fullness.
Q: How long will one box of Latisse last?
A: One box of 3ml should last approximately six to eight weeks if you are using it as suggested for optimum results. We offer Latisse in 5ml as well and it is a better value.
Q: Do I need a prescription to purchase Latisse?
A: Latisse is a prescription drug. However, Latisse can be purchased at Wells Plastic Surgery and Skin Care after a consultation with Dr. Wells determines that Latisse is right for you.
Facial Dermal Filler Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does a dermal filler treatment usually take?
A: The injection process for a dermal filler generally takes about 15-30 minutes. This depends on the number of areas you are having treated. You will also need to allow time to consult with our provider prior to the treatment. Sculptra treatments can take longer.
Q: What is a Filler treatment like?
A: Juvederm, the Restylane family of fillers, as well as other fillers are injected into problem areas using a very fine needle. As a result, it fills in moderate to severe facial wrinkles. Juvederm or Restylane instantly restores volume to folds such as smile lines, parenthesis (nasolabial folds) and marionette lines around the chin. Fillers instantly add volume and can give the appearance of smoother skin.
Q: Is Voluma really the best filler to restore the ‘Apples’ of my cheeks like the TV commercials claim?
A: Voluma may be the product of choice and is excellent for bringing back the youthful fullness and curves of your face. A consultation with Susan Wells, RN, MS, CANS will insure that the right filler is chosen for your specific needs for the best result.
Q: What is Wells Sculptra Center of Excellence?
A: No fillers are permanent. Results last about a year and repeat injections are usually needed to maintain your desired level of correction.
Q: Are Juvederm or Restylane results permanent?
A: Wells performs more Sculptra injections than other practice in this region. For this reason we are a Sculptra Center of Excellence. We offer advanced Sculptra injecting techniques in areas like the upper arm, thigh, knee & chest. Advanced treatments like these are not available from some other Sculptra providers.
Q: How long do Sculptra results last?
A: Sculptra’s results last up to two years with very high levels of patient satisfaction. Patients comment that correction is subtle yet significant. Sculptra’s long lasting benefits make its cost very affordable.
Q: How does Sculptra work with my skin to create volume?
A: Sculptra is not just a dermal filler, but is also a collagen stimulator that diminishes facial wrinkles by restoring the underlying structure of the skin. It actually stimulates the patients own collagen growth to restore volume, thus enabling the procedure to last up to two years or more.
Q: Where in the face is Sculptra injected?
A: It is used to correct shallow to deep facial wrinkles and folds. It works well to correct the deep folds between the nose and the mouth (nasolabial folds) that are also called smile lines, the lines framing your mouth that are called marionette lines, chin wrinkles and other deep facial wrinkles.
Q: What makes Sculptra different from other dermal fillers?
A: Sculptra is a less obvious, more gradual solution because your own natural collagen is actually growing over the Sculptra foundation and improving the skin subtly over time. On the other hand dermal fillers provide a more immediate but shorter lasting result.
Q: How many Sculptra treatments will I need to correct deep lines?
A: Usually you will have 3 to 4 sessions over a few months. These are spaced a month to a month and a half apart.
Q: Will I see immediate results with Sculptra?
A: Actually a few days after treatment it is normal to temporarily look as you did before treatment. In a few weeks as collagen growth begins to take hold you will experience your initial improvement. Improvement will continue to gradually, subtly improve over a period of months.
COLLAGEN P.I.N MICRONEEDLING FAQ'S
Q: What results can I expect from Collagen P.I.N Microneedling?
A: Skin becomes firmer as it regains its elasticity. Fine lines and wrinkles are visibly reduced. Pores are smaller and circulation is stimulated. The overall condition and appearance of the skin improves.
Q: What skin problems does Collagen P.I.N. primarily address?
A: Collagen P.I.N. addresses fine lines, wrinkles, acne scars, hyper-pigmentation and skin texture. This is done by stimulating the skin’s natural ability to produce new collagen formation. As a result, it creates healthier skin.
Q: What areas are typical for Collagen P.I.N treatments?
A: The forehead, around the eyes, cheeks, around the mouth, neck and chest are treated most often. Collagen P.I.N microneedling can also be used on problem areas like surgical scarring.
Q: How long does a treatment with Collagen P.I.N take?
A: Procedure time ranges from 30-60 minutes per area.
Q: Is it painful and is pain medication involved?
A: A topical numbing agent is applied prior to your microneedling treatment. Adjustable settings allow for treatments to be customized to any skin type and sensitivity level.
Q: What is the recovery time after a Collagen P.I.N treatment?
A: There is very little down time. Patients may be pink for about 24 hours, and feel like a mild wind burn.
Q: How many procedures does it take to see results?
A: You may see results after the first treatment. However, 3-4 treatments are recommended for optimal results.
IPL – Intense Pulsed Light Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)?
A: IPL is an innovative technology that delivers light therapy that targets the signs of aging and sun damage. It rejuvenates the skin to provides a more refreshed, rejuvenated and youthful appearance. Consequently, patients treated with IPL over time were reported to look ten years younger.
Q: What type of skin conditions can be treated with IPL?
A: IPL Treatments for skin rejuvenation:
- Removes age spots
- Lessens freckles
- Reduces redness
- Removes or reduces small vessels (spider veins)
- Controls active acne
Q: What areas of the body can be treated?
A: All areas of the body can be treated with Intense Pulse Light.
Q: Are IPL Treatments uncomfortable?
A: No. However in more sensitive areas being treated patients may experience some discomfort. In these cases we will use a topical anesthetic to make you more comfortable. You will discuss this during your consultation.
Q: How many treatments will I need?
A: Because every patient is different, a customized skin care plan will be developed for you during your consultation. Your skin care specialist will recommend regular restorative maintenance treatments for long-term improvement of your skin to maintain a youthful appearance.
Q: Is there downtime associated with IPL?
A: There is virtually no downtime. In fact, you can apply makeup immediately after a treatment and return to work that day.
Q: What after care is needed?
A: You may be sensitive to sunlight and should apply sunscreen as directed by your skin care specialist. It is advised to stay out of the sun immediately following your IPL treatment.
Q: What after care is needed?
A: You may be sensitive to sunlight and should apply sunscreen as directed by your skin care specialist. It is advised to stay out of the sun immediately following your IPL treatment.
Laser Hair Reduction Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What type of unwanted hair reduction do you do?
A: We use Sciton Laser technology that targets hair follicles. Because it is absorbed by the melanin in each hair, it gives the optimal balance between safety for all skin types and effective hair removal. Very light hair does not respond to laser hair reduction.
Q: How does Sciton Laser Hair Reduction work?
A: Sciton Laser Hair Reduction selectively targets hair follicles and heats them with laser energy. This system treats many hairs at once making treatment of large areas less time consuming. Sciton Laser Hair Reduction uses a computer guided scanning system. This ensures your skin is rapidly and evenly being treated for safe, effective and gentle treatment.
Q: Can sun tanned skin have laser hair reduction?
A: Sciton Laser Hair Reduction can safety treat tanned skin which makes it a perfect choice for active patients. Inform us if you have had prolonged exposure to the sun within the last three weeks and of tanning products you are using. Your treatment can be adjusted for the best result.
Q: Can all skin types be treated?
A: Yes all skin types from light to dark can safely be treated.
Q: What should I expect after treatment?
A: Some redness and slight swelling may occur in the treatment area. This should go away in just a few hours. Keep out of the sun after your treatment and use at least SPF 15 sunscreen when going outdoors for a period of time indicated by your skin care specialist.
Q: How many treatments will I need?
A: Because every patient is different, the number of treatments can vary based on the level of improvement you wish to achieve. A personalized plan will be made for you to achieve the best results.
Q: Is laser hair reduction really permanent?
A: You may require some spot treatments in the future for complete hair reduction. The vast majority of your unwanted hair will not return. The resulting hair removal has been life changing for many of our patients, both men and women alike.
Q: On what areas of the body can laser hair reduction be done?
A: Virtually any area of the body can have hair reduction treatments. Each area is individually priced. Multiple areas can be done at one time depending on the length of your appointment and the severity of the treatment area.
- Face: Upper Lip, Chin, Sideburns, Cheeks, Lower Face, Beard
- Bikini
- Underarms
- Full Arms, Forearms, Upper Arms
- Chest, Back, Neck
- Toes, Fingers
- Nipples, Areola
- Full Legs, Lower Legs, Upper Legs
Fraxel Laser Treatments Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does Fraxel work?
A: Fraxel uses fractional technology to target damaged skin with microscopic lasers that penetrate deep into the skin. It treats only a fraction of tissue at a time while not touching surrounding tissue. As a result this stimulates your body’s natural healing process. Old and damaged cells are replaced with healthy, glowing skin.
Q: How long will it take for results to appear?
A: Results are both immediate and progressive.Soon after treatment your skin will feel smoother, softer, look brighter and show a more even tone. Over 3-6 months more improvement will come as deeper layers of skin continue to create new collagen.
Q: How many treatments will I need?
A: You will need multiple treatments and that number depends on your desired result. The specific number will be part of a tailored treatment plan based on lifestyle and skin care goals.
Q: What should I expect after treatment?
A: You may experience redness or swelling, which will go away as soon as the next day up to several days after treatment. Your skin will naturally bronze over the next week or two. The skin will behave as if it were sunburned. It will flake and exfoliate normally leaving fresh glowing skin.
Q: Is Fraxel safe?
A: Fraxel is safe and is backed by extensive research. Discuss any skin issues or concerns you have with us prior to treatment.
Chemical Peel Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a chemical peel?
A: A Chemical Peel is a treatment where a medical grade solution is used to help remove dead skin and improve smoothness and texture of the skin.
Q: What skin concerns does a chemical peel target?
A: Chemical peels can target mild to severe skin imperfections and help improve the visible appearance of:
- Photo-damaged Skin
- Fine Lines
- Wrinkles
- Pigment Irregularities
- Acne Scarring
Q: What types of chemical peels do you offer?
A: We offer a range of peels, and we will determine which is best for your skin during your consultation, including:
- Chemical Peel
- Micropeel
- 6% Pure Retinol Peel
- and a Mild Peel is part of a HydraFacial MD Treatment
Q: What can I expect after my peel and is there a post peel regimen?
A: Immediately after the peel and for 24 hours your skin may be tight and a little more red than usual. Avoid strenuous exercise that day and exposure to sun.
Q: How many chemical peels will I need?
A: With each chemical peel you will continue to improve the condition of your skin by turning over new skin to the surface. After that old damaged skin is soughed off. There is no limit to the number of peels a person can receive as long as improvement continues.
Q: What amount of time should pass before getting my next peel?
A: Peels can be done every 4 weeks, if not sooner. The effect is cumulative with time and can be enhanced with medical grade skin care products.
