Quick Questions with Dr. Antimarino
Posted September 26, 2023
What is your favorite procedure to do?
I don’t know if I have an absolute favorite procedure, but I enjoy doing body contouring, combined procedures such as belly and breasts, as well as facial rejuvenation combined procedures like face and eyes. I like the combination procedures because you can address the shape and contour of whole areas simultaneously.
What procedure has the shortest downtime?
All procedures take around 6-9 months on average for final results. Depending upon the patient and their healing ability, they may take up to a year. We discuss each step of the recovery in our consultation so you will have a solid understanding of what is to come. However, liposuction has the shortest downtime, meaning patients return to work and exercise within several days to a week.
Are Tummy Tucks painful?
A common comment I hear during consultations for a Tummy Tuck is that they are supposed to be extremely painful. Potential patients have heard that a Tummy Tuck is tough. However, in my experience over the last 20 years, that has not been the case. I have found that patients say they feel tight but have minimal pain. Most patients describe it as uncomfortable, not painful. I feel the technique used has a lot to do with post-operative discomfort.
At what age do you think people should start using good skincare?
Both men and women should protect the skin on their faces and necks as much as possible, starting at a young age. We recommend sunscreen throughout your lifetime. Sun exposure is one of the critical causes of aging in our faces. Anyone over the age of 25 should have a skincare evaluation and start on some type of skin care regimen. Patients have to realize this regimen will change as they go through different phases of aging, especially women, because of the fluctuations in hormone levels, which directly affect skin vitality.
Do nutrition and hydration play a role in the surgical process?
It is essential for healing to maintain good protein and vitamin intake and adequate hydration. Nutrition is key for both mental and physical health. After surgery is not the time to go on any diets, as you will need to take care of your body to allow for proper healing.
How does a patient optimize their healing?
Other than nutrition and hydration, it is critical to stop all smoking and vaping of any nicotine or marijuana products as they both interfere with blood flow and can lead to poor healing and scarring. Also, follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions because they are tailored to your procedure. This is not the time to use Google, social media, or advice from friends. All questions should be directed to the surgeon or the staff to achieve the best results.
