By: Carl Lentz, M.D.

At my practice in Central Florida, plastic surgery procedures can be divided into 2 categories: facial rejuvenation and imbalance correction. How long the results last depends on the type of procedure.

Facial Rejuvenation
Facial rejuvenation includes procedures such as facelift, brow lift and eyelid surgery, which are typically used to create a younger-looking appearance. Usually, the results from these procedures last for several years, sometimes as long as a decade. It’s important to remember that plastic surgery can postpone, but not prevent, the effects of aging. Your skin will continue to age even after surgery. However, because of the surgery, you will look younger than your chronological age.

Imbalance Correction
Procedures such as rhinoplasty, breast augmentation and liposuction, which reshape the face or body to correct a physical imbalance, offer more permanent benefits, since they alter physical structures of the body. However, some of these procedures require effort on the part of the patient in order to maintain long-lasting results. For example, liposuction and tummy tucks must be accompanied by a healthful diet and exercise in order to maintain the results. Although excess fat cells and skin are removed during these procedures, they do not protect the patient from future weight gain. You can speak with your surgeon about ways to enhance or prolong your surgical results.