What Size Breast Implants Should I Get?

by David Newman, MD | Oct 23, 2019 | Blog, Breast

What Size Breast Implants Should I Get?

Size Matters but Not Like You Think

You have just decided to take the plunge and have a breast augmentation. There has been the back and forth deciding and listening to your friends and relatives telling you what to do but now you have finally decided. You have consulted with several good plastic surgeons but you still don’t know exactly how big you want to go or which implant is the best. Dr David Newman recommends that patients think more like a doctor when looking at breast implant alternatives. And there are two secrets that doctors know about breast implants.

Your Right Breast Implant Size is the Size That Will Make You Look Your Best

Plastic surgeons use volume to create shape. So when the volume of the implant is too small, there is not enough size to get to the best shape. For example, the implant needs to extend horizontally from the cleavage area to the outside of the breast in order that the cleavage will be the best it can be. If the implant is smaller than this, the cleavage will suffer. This is also true from the vertical perspective. The implant needs to have sufficient volume so that it can extend from the bottom of the breast to the upper pole or the upper part of the breast won’t be full and again, the overall shape will not be its best. These are both examples of the minimum volume required to achieve the best shape.

But shape will suffer when the implant goes beyond a maximum volume. In other words, when the implant is too large, the shape won’t be as good as it was with a lesser size. This is mostly because the doctor has to make a larger pocket to hold the larger implant and the space required may extend beyond the natural edge of the breast tissue. When this is done, the breast starts to lose its “breast shape” and become more “blobby”. Some patient might be willing to sacrifice some loss of shape to get to the size they wish but more often patients wish the best shape. But patients should know that there is a “best shape range of implant sizes” that will lend the best shape. There are some other issues that relate to creating a pocket that extends past the natural edge of the breast tissue. The breast tissue provides natural cover for the implant and hides the ability to feel or see edges of the implant (rippling). So when the implant goes beyond the edge of the natural breast tissue, it may be possible to feel the implant.

Another issue relates to the support of the implant by the patient’s tissues. The implant is being supported by the pectoralis muscle which acts like an internal bra to push the implant up and that creates fullness of the upper part of the breast. We need good volume to have the implant “get to the top” of the breast to create this fullness but when the implant pocket is made too large or especially when the muscle is released at the bottom to put in a large implant, the muscle is no longer able to support the large implant and, over time, the implant that lacks support will fall and “bottom out”. This also results in loss of fullness of the upper part of the breast. Most patients can get to their goal size wishes without having to go beyond this point. But it is interesting and helpful to discuss the fact that there is a “best size” or at least “best size range” for each patient and this is generally in the C to full C range though it can vary widely with different chest widths, different anatomy and different breast shapes. To find your best size range it is important to discuss your wishes with a plastic surgeon, both in terms of the size and the shape.

What Size Breast Implant Should I Get?

The ideal breast implant size depends on individual factors like body frame, existing breast tissue, and desired outcome. While the most common size range is between 300cc and 500cc, the best choice for you should be determined during a consultation with a plastic surgeon.

Factors to Consider:

Body Frame: If you have a smaller frame, you might opt for a smaller implant, while those with larger frames may be better suited for larger sizes.

Desired Outcome: Do you want a subtle change or a more significant enhancement? This will influence the implant size you choose.

Current Breast Tissue: The amount of existing breast tissue will affect how much implant you can realistically accommodate.

Implant Profile: Consider the projection of the implant (low, moderate, high) and how it will complement your body shape.

Consultation with a Plastic Surgeon: A qualified surgeon can assess your individual needs and recommend the most appropriate implant size based on your unique anatomy and desired results.

General Guidelines:

Small to Medium Frames:

Implant sizes between 150-250cc or 300-400cc may be appropriate for smaller body frames.

Medium to Larger Frames:

Implant sizes between 350-500cc or even larger may be a better fit for those with larger body frames.

Cubic Centimeters (cc):

Breast implants are measured in cc, with larger volumes resulting in larger breasts.

Profile:

Consider different implant profiles (low, moderate, high) to achieve the desired projection and shape.

A Plethora of Possibilities

While you are on the road to your best shape, it’s also important to know that there are several kinds of breast implants and not only one type. Breast implants can be round or tear drop shaped, have differing amounts of projection (sticking out from the chest), can be saline or silicone gel and even are offered with differing thicknesses of gel. This reveals something very important: there is no one best implant but rather different implants that each have pluses and minuses. Each patient must weigh the benefits of these different implants as they relate to their goals and go through the process of this decision. It’s a very enjoyable process to go through and find what is best for you! So don’t let anything hold you back.

How Much Does A Tummy Tuck Cost?

by David Newman, MD | Oct 7, 2019 | Blog, Body

How Much Does A Tummy Tuck Cost?

How Much Does A Tummy Tuck Cost In Temecula, Murrieta, or Menifee, CA?

Costs for a tummy tuck depend on the fee of the plastic surgeon, the location where the surgery is being performed, and the type of operation or surgery necessary. Anesthesia may also be a factor, but most tummy tucks are performed under general anesthesia to make this procedure safe and to get the best cosmetic result.

Tummy tuck prices are generally similar within a certain geographic area but may vary depending on any additional procedures added to the tummy tuck, such as liposuction of other areas. For instance, Tummy tucks near Temecula, Murrieta, and Menifee may all be less than the cost in Beverly Hills, though the same operation is performed and with the same attention to detail and cosmetic result.

That is why it is important that patients shop around and even consider having procedures done out of their residential area, as the cost could be significantly lower. Some plastic surgeons have packages they offer that include not only the procedure itself but short-term lodging near their surgery center, both to make surgery safer and more convenient for their patients.

Tummy Tuck Price Estimates By Procedure

Type of Tummy Tuck	Typical Price Range (USD)	What’s Included
Mini Tummy Tuck	$3,500 – $8,000	Focuses on lower abdomen below the navel Shorter incision May include local or general anesthesia Faster recovery time
Full (Traditional) Tummy Tuck	$6,000 – $12,000	Removes excess skin and fat from entire abdominal area Tightens abdominal muscles Includes anesthesia, facility, and surgeon fees Longer incision and recovery time
Extended Tummy Tuck	$8,000 – $15,000	Addresses abdomen, flanks, and lower back Ideal for patients with significant skin laxity Includes comprehensive contouring Longer surgery and recovery period
Fleur-de-Lis Tummy Tuck	$10,000 – $18,000	Vertical and horizontal incisions Removes a large amount of excess skin Often used after massive weight loss More extensive recovery

Standard Tummy Tuck

The most common type of tummy tuck is referred to as a “standard tummy tuck (standard abdominoplasty). The average patient who has this kind of tummy tuck has had children and has a prominence where the front of the abdomen protrudes, and this is usually from the top to the bottom of the tummy. These patients also have skin excess where the skin of the abdomen is loose or folded, especially over its lower part, and the skin can hang down over the pubic bone. There may also be skin excess within the upper part of the abdomen.

Mini May Be Better

Some patients may not need to have their entire abdomen treated and have a lesser procedure, and these are often referred to as mini-tummy tucks. There are many variations of a mini-tummy tuc, but they share in common the fact that they take less time to complete and therefore cost less than a standard tummy tuck. (By the way, most patients refer to a standard tummy tuck as a “full tummy tuck“). Sometimes mini tummy tucks are performed with liposuction as part of the treatment of the front of the tummy, and liposuction surgery is much faster than any kind of tummy tuck. The decision to have a specific type of tummy tuck or liposuction is based on the patient’s anatomy and their goals for the treatment. But the tummy is an area where, often, the recommendation of the plastic surgeon is most important to consider, regardless of the price.

The Dreaded Scar

Not to diminish the fact that a tummy tuck means that there will be a scar about the lower abdomen, patients often focus on the scar but don’t weigh the scar against the improvement they will gain with a tummy tuck because that is the reason the patient is in the doctor’s office in the first place! Patients must consider how badly they wish a tummy tuck versus how bad the scar might be ultimately and there are things that can be done to treat scars.

An experienced plastic surgeon can really help patients understand which procedure may be best for them and to give a reasonable expectation about the safety of the surgery and their cosmetic result.

Get A Tummy Tuck Consult in Temecula, Murrieta, and Menifee, CA

Understanding the cost of a tummy tuck involves more than just a number, it’s about knowing what each type of procedure offers, what’s included in the price, and how it aligns with your personal goals. Whether you’re considering a mini tummy tuck or a more extensive procedure, investing in your confidence and well-being is priceless. Prices can vary based on the surgeon’s experience, facility fees, and the complexity of your case, so it’s essential to get a personalized consultation.

If you’re ready to explore your tummy tuck options, contact Dr. David A. Newman at Newman Plastic Surgery in Temecula, CA. With decades of experience and a reputation for natural, beautiful results, Dr. Newman can help you take the next step with confidence. Call today or schedule your consultation online to get started on your transformation.

7 Questions To Ask Your Plastic Surgeon

by David Newman, MD | Oct 7, 2019 | Blog

7 Questions To Ask Your Plastic Surgeon

Considering Plastic Surgery? Here’s What You Should Know

If you’re thinking about plastic surgery, it’s natural to have questions—not just about procedures, but about your surgeon’s training, the facility, and even what the term “plastic surgery” really means. In this blog, we’re answering some of the most common questions patients ask—from the benefits of having a private surgery center to what board certification really means, and even whether plastic surgery can become addictive. Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or preparing for a consultation, this guide will give you honest, helpful insights to make informed decisions about your care.

1. Do you have your own surgery center?

Plastic Surgeons who have their own surgery center wish the most privacy and best care for their patients. When doctors own their own center they are more involved with the care process, not just bopping in to do surgery somewhere and leaving. They work on quality improvement of the center and that means patients are better cared for.

When patients are cared for by one team that supports one doctor, the team can work better with the plastic surgeon to deliver consistent care at the highest and safest level.

2. I know you are board-certified, but what are you certified to do?

The free enterprise system of the United States allows doctors to set up their own board! These boards may not be recognized by The American Board of Medical Specialties. This Board determines whether a specialty board is legitimate based on many factors including whether a board has core principles not present in other boards. That doesn’t mean that unapproved boards are not of high quality but that patients should evaluate more deeply, unapproved board members training and compare it with the training of other physicians that have been chosen and trained through more conventional programs approved by The American Board of Medical Specialties.

3. What is the difference between a plastic surgeon and a facial plastic surgeon?

Plastic surgeons go through a long program of general surgery and then are chosen by other plastic surgeons to enter a two or three-year plastic surgery training experience. Facial plastic surgeons go through a long program of ear nose and throat training and then do a one-year fellowship in cosmetic surgery of the face. The Board of Facial Plastic Surgery is not approved by The American Board of Medical Specialties because, at its core, it is not different than the field of plastic surgery.

So it may appear, superficially, that facial plastic surgeons are better trained to do facial cosmetic surgery because the name implies they are more specialized but the opposite may be true. It depends more on how much time a physician is spending doing cosmetic surgery on the face and the results they are able to achieve. It therefore is very important for patients who are considering facial plastic surgery to find out more about the physician and especially important to view before and after photos of their previous patients.

4. Can Patients really become addicted to plastic surgery?

Basically, anyone can become addicted to anything because that’s how we are as people! But generally, and for most patients, doctors limit how much plastic surgery they will let patients have just because they don’t want a “bad rap” in their community. We see “plastic surgery junkies” on TV but for the most part, patients are not having surgery to excess.

5. Do Plastic Surgeons use plastic?

The word “plastic” in plastic surgery comes from the Greek word plasticos which means “to shape or mold.” The only plastic-like materials used in plastic surgery are silicone rubber products used in chin and cheek implants and the shell or balloon outer part of breast implants is made of silicone sheeting.

6. At what age should I have plastic surgery?

As a general rule, surgery treats problems and problems can occur at any and every age. As long as a patient is healthy, they can have the surgery if it addresses the problem that bothers them.

7. Do breast implants cause disease or cancer?

The plastic surgery scientific community knew that breast implants were safe by the 70s because larger studies had been done to prove they were safe. Despite that, breasts were taken from the market in the late 80s even though it was well-known that implants had a high safety margin.

Recently, cases of breast implant associated lymphoma have occurred but are exceedingly rare. All of the known cases have occurred in association with textured surface breast implants and almost entirely from one company’s textured implant.

Final Thoughts

Choosing to undergo plastic surgery is a deeply personal decision, and being well-informed is one of the best ways to feel confident in your choice. From understanding your surgeon’s credentials to knowing what to expect from a procedure, asking the right questions is key. At the end of the day, your safety, comfort, and satisfaction matter most. So take your time, do your research, and don’t hesitate to speak directly with your surgeon about any concerns. The right team will always support your journey with honesty, skill, and care.

If you are in the Murrieta, Temecula, Menifee area, consider having your plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures performed at Newman Plastic Surgery. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or procedure.

Fillers

by David Newman, MD | Oct 2, 2019 | Aesthetics, Blog

Fillers are a class of injectable medication designed to soften and sometimes flatten folds, depressions and wrinkles of the skin. They are produced predominantly by US companies and are sold as syringes containing one cc. of clear gel product that is sterile and ready for immediate use. In the US, patients are only treated with fillers by physicians and nurses. These materials were first used to treat facial wrinkles and skin folds around the mouth but their use has expanded to include augmenting the bony surfaces of the face such as the cheekbone, chin and jaw line. Recently, fillers have found use in nonsurgical rhinoplasty (nose job) and treating surface changes after rhinoplasty surgery. Fillers are also currently used to fill areas of muscle loss due to the aging process and other causes. The most common area for this muscle loss treatment is in the temple areas on the side of the face.

The filler substances currently in use are composed of a chemical called hyaluronic acid, also known as “HA”. The HA that is used for cosmetic purposes is completely man-made but hyaluronic acid is a significant component of human skin. HA is found in all layers of the skin but especially under the uppermost layer of skin called epidermis. Within skin, hyaluronic acid is important in skin support and is a key component of skin healing. Hyaluronic acid is a small chemical but can be synthesized into a polymer of many of the same units. Longer polymers can last longer under the skin and therefore fewer treatments are required. The chemical polymers can also be modified to change their consistency and feel as well as other properties.

There are currently about twenty fillers on the market and the most common fillers for wrinkles and skin folds are the juvederm line of products and the perlane/restylane group of products. The most often currently used product for enhancing bony prominences is Voluma. The FDA currently approves all facial fillers and the approval not only clears these products for use but for use in specific areas of the face. Physicians and “nurse injectors” are instructed by the FDA to use these specific for specific areas but injectors often also use product in areas not mentioned by the FDA. These areas are referred to as “off label” locations. Off-label use can be safe and effective but should be discussed with the treating physician.

Fillers are commonly confused with Botox treatment. The rule is that fillers fill and Botox paralyzes muscles to lessen wrinkles. Botox is most commonly used for wrinkles that occur between the eyebrows, over the forehead and within the Crow’s foot area outside the eyes near the temple. There are some parts of the face where both Botox and fillers can be of use. For example, the corrugator muscle folds the skin between the eyebrows. When patients are younger, muscle overactivity leads only to folding in this area and Botox is a great fix. But with the aging process, permanent wrinkles can be seen even when the patient is not flexing these muscles. It is at this point where fillers can be used effectively to soften and flatten wrinkles and folds.

Facial filler side effects most commonly encountered include irregularities that can occur under the skin, pain bruising, itching and rash. The types of dermal fillers used can all have these side effects and some of the side effects are related to the experience of the injector.

How Much Does Rhinoplasty Cost?

by David Newman, MD | Oct 2, 2019 | Blog, Face

How Much Does Rhinoplasty Cost?

How much does Rhinoplasty cost?

The average cost of rhinoplasty in the United States typically ranges from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the complexity of the procedure, surgeon experience, and location. This cost usually includes surgeon fees, anesthesia, and facility charges. However, rhinoplasty (nose jobs) can vary in cost depending upon the surgeon, the type of surgery that is being performed and the location of the procedure.

Rhinoplasties are one of the most gratifying surgeries performed by plastic surgeons today because of the prominent place the nose has on the face. It’s one of the first things others see when they look at us. We also associate something of our personality and ascribe some personality traits to our nose and so, when the nose becomes obvious we feel it is “too much’ and wish to diminish the effects of the shape to match more the shape of the average nose.

Most patients seek consultation for nasal surgery because they feel their nose is simply too large for their face. Women may especially have smaller faces and sometimes their nose grows to resemble the shape and size of one of their relatives. There may be other aspects of the nose that bothers patients and it is also often the case that the nose simply does not “go” with the rest of the face. For example, some patients have a long and angular nose that seems to droop and point downward, especially when they smile. They may see that this shape simply doesn’t match other features of their face that may be more round.

Rhinoplasty surgery goals include not only reshaping the nose to gain improvement but also viewing the nose artistically to see how the nose relates to the face. In this fashion, changes can be made that appear most natural because the nose then becomes part of the face and blends in better.

Closed Rhinoplasty

Most procedures to reduce the size of the nose and make other changes are done as closed rhinoplasty. All incisions are made inside the nose and the structure of the nose is altered (bone and cartillage) through these inside incisions. Closed rhinoplasty is often the least expensive option when considering what type of rhinoplasty is best but sometimes open rhinoplasty is necessary to get patients to their goals.

Open Rhinoplasty

There are some shape issues for which open rhinoplasty is a better choice. These shape problems invariably involve the nasal tip, whether it be deficient (doesn’t stick out far enough), or is irregular or asymmetrical. In these situations, the incisions located inside the nose are extended across the columella (the part of the nose at the bottom between the nostrils) and the skin of the lower part of the nose is lifted so that the surgeon can see the tip directly to make changes in the cartilage of the tip.

There are other situations where open rhinoplasty is the preferred choice and also, there are surgeons who do all of their rhinoplasties open. Open rhinoplasty takes, on average two to three times longer depending on what needs to be done and so are significantly more costly.

Breathing Problems

Some patients who wish to gain cosmetic improvement with rhinoplasty may also have difficulty breathing through their nose. They may have a deviated septum which blocks air flow through one or both sides of the nose or they may have another cause of blockage that can be addressed at surgery.

In these cases, rhinoplasty can be combined with airway surgery. Medical insurance never pays for cosmetic rhinoplasty, but it does pay for airway surgery, and the rhinoplasty surgeon can apply to the patient’s insurance carrier to see if they will cover such surgery. Some surgeons will discount the cost of the airway surgery when it is performed with rhinoplasty because when airway surgery is performed in a patient who is a good candidate for it, the patient can have very significant functional improvement in their breathing.

It is very important to remember that cosmetic rhinoplasty generally doesn’t affect a patient’s breathing when it is performed by itself. That is because inspired air flows downward after entering the nostrils. So removal of the bump on the nose doesn’t decrease air flow.

Final Thoughts: Is Rhinoplasty Worth the Cost?

Rhinoplasty is one of the most transformative cosmetic procedures available, offering both aesthetic and functional benefits. While the cost of rhinoplasty can vary widely based on your surgeon, location, and procedure complexity, many patients find the investment well worth it for improved confidence and facial harmony. Understanding the full breakdown of expenses can help you plan ahead and avoid surprises.

Ready to explore your options?

Schedule a consultation today to receive a personalized rhinoplasty quote and learn more about what’s possible for your nose and your overall appearance. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Lip Injections in Temecula, CA: What To Expect

by David Newman, MD | Oct 2, 2019 | Aesthetics, Blog

Lip Injections in Temecula, CA: What To Expect

Enhancing your lips has never been easier or more natural-looking. At Newman Plastic Surgery in Temecula, CA, we offer advanced lip filler treatments using safe and effective hyaluronic acid-based products like Juvederm. Whether you’re looking to boost volume, define your lip shape, or smooth fine lines, our personalized approach to lip injections can help you achieve beautiful, balanced results.

What Are Lip Injections?

Lip injections use dermal fillers, typically composed of hyaluronic acid, to enhance the shape, size, and structure of the lips. These fillers often include lidocaine, a local anesthetic that minimizes discomfort during the procedure.

Why Patients Choose Lip Fillers

Patients choose lip enhancement for several reasons:

To add volume to naturally thin lips
To balance uneven lips
To define the lip line and Cupid’s bow
To reduce fine lines around the mouth
To create a more youthful appearance

Before and After: What Results Can You Expect?

Before lip injections, patients may feel their lips appear small, flat, or lack definition. Some notice that the pink portion of the lip seems to roll inward, or that their lips don’t match the rest of their facial features. Others feel like they simply “have no lips.”

After lip enhancement, patients often report:

Fuller, more youthful lips
Enhanced lip shape and symmetry
Better definition of the lip border

Results are natural-looking, helping patients look refreshed without appearing “overdone.”

What to Expect During and After the Procedure

Lip injections are quick, non-surgical, and typically completed in under 30 minutes; perfect for a lunch break appointment. Mild to moderate discomfort is normal, but most fillers contain lidocaine to minimize pain.

Recovery Timeline:

Day 1–2: Mild to moderate swelling, little to no pain
Day 3–7: Swelling decreases, lips settle into their shape
Day 7–10: Final results are visible
Duration: Results typically last up to 12 months

Do Lip Injections Hurt?

Most patients experience mild discomfort during injections. Because the fillers contain lidocaine, the area numbs quickly. For sensitive patients, a dental block can be used to completely numb the lips before the procedure, improving overall comfort.

What Not to Do After Lip Injections

To ensure optimal results:

Avoid exercise or strenuous activity for at least 8 hours
Use a gentle cleanser if needed
Keep lips moisturized with Aquaphor ointment
Avoid touching or massaging the area

How Long Do Lip Fillers Last?

The results of hyaluronic acid-based lip fillers, like Juvederm, typically last 9 to 12 months, though individual results vary depending on metabolism and lifestyle.

Natural-Looking Lip Fillers

Although hyaluronic acid used in fillers is synthetically made, it is identical to a substance found naturally in the skin. It helps retain moisture, improve skin elasticity, and supports healing; making it both safe and “natural-feeling.”

Side Effects and Risks

Common side effects include:

Swelling
Bruising
Redness or itching at the injection site

Less commonly, small bumps may form but typically resolve on their own.

Cost of Juvederm Lip Injections in Temecula

Costs vary based on the type of filler and the amount used. In Temecula, most lip injections are competitively priced. Be cautious of providers offering prices that seem unusually low, as quality and safety should always come first.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do lip fillers last?

Most fillers last about 9 to 12 months, depending on the product and patient.

Do lip injections hurt?

Thanks to built-in numbing agents and optional dental blocks, most patients report only mild discomfort during treatment.

What if I only want one lip enhanced?

That’s totally fine! Some patients opt to enhance just the upper or lower lip for better balance.

Are the results instant?

Yes, but expect swelling for 1–2 days. Final results appear by day 7 to 10.

Lip Injections Near Me in Temecula

When friends or family see your results up close, they’ll be amazed at how natural and balanced your lips look. Forget the overdone appearances shown on TV—our approach is focused on harmony, youthfulness, and enhancing your unique beauty.

Schedule Your Lip Filler Consultation in Temecula

Ready to enhance your natural beauty with fuller, more defined lips? Contact Newman Plastic Surgery in Temecula today to schedule a consultation for Juvederm lip injections. Our experienced team will guide you through every step to ensure your results are beautiful and natural-looking.

Book Your Consultation Now »

« Older Entries

Next Entries »