In the News with Dr. Namnoum
Because plastic surgery is a serious matter, patients pursuing cosmetic enhancements have to do quite a bit of research before undergoing a procedure or choosing their plastic surgeon. Rather than making patients search the internet for educational information on plastic surgery, Dr. James Namnoum provides patients with what they need to know before surgery through his website, blog, Facebook and Twitter. However, there’s more to research than just learning about cosmetic surgery procedures, the surgical process, and what to expect; it’s also important to get to know your prospective surgeon and make sure that you feel comfortable with him or her.
Plastic surgery before and after photo galleries are typically a good starting point as you can view the doctor’s previous work. Another way to find out whether or not you feel comfortable with a certain surgeon is by scheduling a face-to-face consultation. We also encourage you to use the educational outlets provided on Dr. Namnoum’s website to help you learn about Dr. Namnoum and the procedures he offers.
In fact, a great way to get to know Dr. Namnoum is by visiting his “In the News” page to view his plastic surgery videos. From new stories that have aired on television to Dr. Namnoum’s videos on the Plastic Surgery Channel™, you can learn about procedures like mommy makeover surgery and breast procedures (both cosmetic and reconstructive breast surgery) while getting a feel for Dr. Namnoum’s personality.
To learn more about Dr. Namnoum, be sure to visit our website. Besides the “In the News” section, there are other valuable tools to help you gain the information you need to make smart decisions regarding plastic surgery. Also if you haven’t connected with Dr. Namnoum on Facebook and Twitter, be sure to do so for constant updates on plastic surgery news.
28th Annual Breast Surgery Symposium in Atlanta a Success
Plastic surgeons from across the country and the world gathered at Northside hospital for the 28th Annual Breast Surgery Symposium. Aiming to allow cosmetic and reconstructive breast surgeons to share breast surgery techniques and technology in order to advance breast procedures, the annual Atlanta symposium was a success. In fact, our very own Dr. James Namnoum served as a program co-chairman.
During the event, Dr. Namnoum held various responsibilities such as moderating discussion panels and speaking about breast surgery. A moderator of “The Future of Breast Reconstruction,” “The Future of Breast Augmentation,” and “The Future of Oncoplastic Surgery” panels, Dr. Namnoum discussed how to enhance the outcome of breast reconstruction surgery. He also enlightened fellow plastic surgeons on breast enhancement surgery with the superior pulley system during the breast surgery hot topics discussion.
Be sure to keep reading Dr. Namnoum’s blog for upcoming plastic surgery news, and find him on Facebook and Twitter for more frequent updates.
Breast Reconstruction is Safe for Older Patients
As a plastic surgeon specializing in breast reconstruction, many of the women I encounter are breast cancer survivors seeking breast reconstruction. Therefore, I was surprised to read the recent news stories proclaiming many women, especially older women, do not undergo reconstruction. According to a study that appeared in the December issue of The American Surgeon regarding the safety of breast reconstruction in older patients, 48% of breast cancer cases occur in women over the age of 65, and very few of these patients choose to have breast reconstruction following cancer treatment. Although there are many reasons a woman may decide not to have reconstructive breast surgery, advanced age shouldn’t be one of them.
In order to find out more about breast reconstruction in older women, Dr. Marissa Howard-McNatt, assistant professor of surgery at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, and her colleagues assessed 89 women over the age of 60 for 10 years who underwent mastectomy and breast reconstruction at Wake Forest. While the study did not show why fewer older women undergo breast reconstruction, it did conclude that the procedure is safe and practical for patients of any age.
I perform breast reconstruction surgery on breast cancer patients of all ages with varying needs. The ability to use different breast surgery techniques based on each patient’s personal situation is what makes events like the upcoming Atlanta Breast Surgery Symposium so significant. Every woman and breast cancer case is different; therefore, each breast reconstruction surgery is different. There are times I perform reconstruction using a breast implant, but other times the breast tissue won’t allow room for an implant immediately and a tissue flap must be used. During surgery I carefully consider individual factors like age to ensure surgery is as safe as possible. Because this is a topic I am very passionate about, I’m especially excited to moderate “The Future of Breast Reconstruction” seminar at the aforementioned symposium.
In the future of breast reconstruction, I hope women will not let their age scare them away from undergoing a procedure that many see as a major part of the healing process. Visit my website to learn more about the breast reconstruction procedures I perform, as well as the cosmetic procedures I offer. If you haven’t already, be sure to connect with me on Facebook and Twitter for plastic surgery news and updates.
Watch Dr. Namnoum Discuss Breast Lift Surgery on the Plastic Surgery Channel
We’re frequently asked what breast lift surgery involves, so we thought we would share Dr. Namnoum’s video discussing the subject. Breast lift surgery (mastopexy) is a cosmetic procedure used to improve sagging breasts and lost volume in women whose breasts have shifted downward because of advanced age, heredity, pregnancy, or weight loss. In the video below, Dr. Jim Namnoum explains that during the procedure, the areola and nipple are lifted upward to an aesthetically pleasing position. Excess tissue is also trimmed, and the breast mound is reshaped.
He shares that many women ask about breast reduction during their breast lift consultation, as it is not uncommon for women with excess breast tissue to experience volume loss over time. He indicates that while small amounts of excess tissue can be removed during breast lift surgery, breast reduction is a separate procedure that’s typically characterized by the removal of more excess tissue.
A similar question is also often asked regarding breast lift surgery with the placement of a breast implant. Dr. Namnoum says that this procedure, though possible, is more complex than a simple breast augmentation or breast lift. Variables like scarring and blood supply to the nipple require care and attention. Consideration must also be taken to determine the size and shape of the implant to lift the breast appropriately. He emphasizes the fact that scars are usually larger with combined breast procedures, but plastic surgery scars do fade. He advises patients to believe in the healing process and follow their aftercare instructions.
Watch his video to learn more, and be sure to connect with Dr. Namnoum on Facebook and Twitter for plastic surgery news and updates.
Mind the Body: How to Avoid Boredom-Eating During the New Year
While cosmetic surgery procedures help to enhance the body’s overall aesthetic, they are not substitutes for a healthy diet and a regular exercise schedule. Nonetheless, data shows that Americans are having trouble maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
A recent study published in the journal Public Library of Science Medicine has found that snacking—not just portion size—is a major cause of expanding waistlines in the United States. After collecting data from 1977 to 2006, the researchers found that not only have portions increased (about 12%) in the past 30 years, but the number of times a day people are eating has also increased (by almost 29%).
At my house during the holidays, there always seems to be something good to eat—whether it’s a tin full of cookies sent from a friend or leftover holiday goodies. Boredom eating is common with so many snacks readily available and tempting us! Here are some ways to avoid eating when you’re not hungry.
Put it on a plate. If you didn’t eat enough at meal time, you could end up snacking in between meals and eating even more than you would if you had satisfied your hunger at the table. By putting your snack on a plate, you see exactly how much you’re eating and avoid mindlessly munching.
Drink more water. People often do not drink the daily recommended amount of water. Your body sometimes misunderstands the thirst signal, and it’s misinterpreted as a hunger signal. Before you chow down, drink a tall glass of water or a mug of green tea and wait to see if you’re still hungry afterward.
Get moving! If you’re eating because you’re bored, get up and take a walk for ten minutes. You’ll direct your attention to another activity and get a little exercise in, too!
Call a friend. This time of year is perfect for catching up with long-lost friends, so get your mouth moving by talking on the phone instead of eating. By the time your conversation is over, you’ll be thinking about how great it was to talk to an old friend as opposed to thinking about food.
Do something with your hands. Whether you paint your nails, work on a do-it-yourself project, or scrub a floor, working with your hands keeps them out of snack tins! If you paint your nails or clean, you won’t want your hands near your mouth anytime soon anyway.
Organize. Similar to the previous tip, organizing keeps your mind and your hands busy and it’s productive. Whether you take on that “junk drawer” in the kitchen or just clean out your wallet, you’ll feel like you’ve accomplished something and won’t remember that you wanted a snack!
Chew gum. If you’re craving something sweet but know you just want a snack, pop a piece of gum in your mouth. Whether it’s fruity or minty, your craving for sweets should be satisfied and your mouth will be busy! The flavor from gum tends to last after chewing, so it can hold off the munchies for a while!
Controlling the urge to snack out of boredom or because of tempting treats is important for both future and past cosmetic surgery patients. It’s especially important for body contouring (liposuction) and body lift patients to be of a relatively healthy weight before surgery as weight fluctuation can drastically impact your results. For those who have already undergone a procedure, healthy eating and exercise are important aspects of maintaining your plastic surgery results.
While the holiday season wouldn’t be the same without a little indulgence, it’s important to get back on track with the overall steps toward a healthy lifestyle! For more information on health and wellness news, check out our Mind the Body blog series. To schedule a consultation, contact us, and make sure to connect with us on Facebook and Twitter for the latest plastic surgery news and updates.
Have you seen Dr. Namnoum’s Mommy Makeover video with the Plastic Surgery Channel?
In the following educational video, Dr. Namnoum explains both the physical and emotional components involved with deciding to have mommy makeover surgery. A combination of cosmetic procedures designed to help a woman regain her pre-pregnancy body after childbirth, mommy makeover surgery typically includes a cosmetic breast procedure, tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), and liposuction. However, because every woman’s body responds to pregnancy and childbirth differently, each mommy makeover surgery is custom-tailored for each patient’s needs.
Dr. Namnoum explains that women who seek mommy makeover surgery often complain of sagging or droopy breasts, pooches caused by C-section scars or loose abdominal tissue, and excess fat. Going beyond the physical changes capable with this procedure, it often contributes to an increased quality of life. From appearance to careers, women sacrifice quite a bit to bring children into this world, and mommy makeover surgery is a great way for mothers to do something for themselves for a change.
Have You Seen Dr. Namnoum’s Cosmetic Surgery Before and After Gallery?
Board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr. James Namnoum offers a variety of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures of the breasts and body to his Atlanta patients. Since he understands the importance of research before pursuing plastic surgery, his website is full of tools to help educate patients. He uses outlets like Facebook, Twitter, his blog, and plastic surgery before and after photos in hopes that plastic surgery patients will make informed decisions.
If you are considering cosmetic surgery, it is essential to view your prospective surgeon’s work. Whether you’re interested in procedures of the body like liposuction or tummy tuck, or if you’re more interested in pursuing a cosmetic breast procedure, be sure to follow the links below to view Dr. Namnoum’s work. Once you schedule a consultation, you will have the opportunity to view even more plastic surgery before and after photos.
Cosmetic Breast Procedures:
Breast Augmentation
Breast Lift/Mastopexy
Breast Augmentation with Mastopexy
Breast Revision
Breast Reduction
Cosmetic Body Procedures:
Post Bariatric & Massive Weight Loss
Liposuction
Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
Circumferential Tummy Tuck/Belt Lipectomy
Buttock Enhancement
Choosing a Breast Implant Size for Reconstruction after Mastectomy Surgery
A recent study from the American Cancer Society published in the journal Cancer showed that breast reconstruction after a mastectomy had a positive effect on women’s psychological, social, and sexual well-being throughout recovery. A feature article written by a breast cancer survivor and published on Salon.com highlights the importance of breast reconstruction surgery in helping her overcome the emotional struggles associated with recovery.
Writer and breast cancer survivor Wendy Colbert discusses her post-treatment consultation with a reconstructive surgeon in the article. When asked what size breast implants she would like to reconstruct her breast, she chose a size larger than her breasts were before her mastectomy.
Colbert had tried on different sized breast prostheses immediately after her surgery, and believed that a C cup size fit the other dimensions of her body (like her height and weight). Her surgeon agreed that the size she had chosen was suitable for her body type.
If Wendy Colbert had been a shorter woman with a smaller frame, her surgeon may have recommended a different sized breast implant. However, because the surgeon knew her body could handle 350cc implant, he agreed to perform her surgery with them.
Colbert acknowledged that her decision to increase her breast size was a factor that helped her cope throughout her breast cancer recovery. She says that she did it for herself, “so I could deal with the emotional pain of removing my breasts privately by ‘passing’ in society’s eyes. My new breasts would be more than cosmetic.”
Whether you’ve chosen to reconstruct your breasts after a mastectomy or are interested in breast augmentation surgery to enhance the size and shape of your breasts, breast implant sizing is an important issue that you and your doctor will discuss before surgery. When suggesting a size for a breast implants, Dr. Namnoum takes into consideration the patient’s height, their current or previous breast size, the width of their shoulders, their weight, and body shape.
For more information on breast implant sizing for breast augmentation or breast reconstruction patients, contact us. You can also keep up with the latest breast cancer and plastic surgery news and updates by “following” Dr. Namnoum on Twitter or “liking” him on Facebook.
The Importance of Plastic Surgery Testimonials
Patient testimonials are an important part of the research process in finding your plastic surgeon. How a patient feels about their plastic surgeon after a procedure is performed is very indicative not only of their plastic surgery results, but also of the relationship the surgeon worked to build with that patient before the surgery and maintained after the procedure.
While many patients look for a surgeon that will provide the best results, it’s important to make sure you and your surgeon are a good match in terms of your personalities, as well. People value the input of their physicians, but they want to be able to voice their opinions and concerns, too.
When researching a cosmetic or reconstructive surgeon, make certain to find their testimonials page or to look up reviews of their service. Schedule a preliminary consultation to make sure you feel comfortable with the level of individualized attention you are receiving.
Atlanta plastic surgeon Dr. Jim Namnoum works hard to ensure that his patients feel like their concerns are being heard and to help them reach their cosmetic goals. Whether you’re researching reconstructive breast procedures or are interested in a cosmetic treatment, using testimonials to find the right “fit” can be invaluable in the plastic surgery research process.
For more information on Dr. Namnoum, check out our blog. You can also connect with Dr. Namnoum on Facebook and Twitter for the latest plastic surgery news and updates. For more information on a procedure or to schedule a consultation, contact our office.
What does Breast Cancer Gene Testing Mean to Me?
The breast cancer gene is one of the most heated debate topics in the medical world today. The dispute centers around whether women who know they have a family history of breast cancer should be tested before any signs of cancer appear. While this may seem like an obvious fix to some people, others believe that the chances for false positives and the emotional implications of a positive test increase the number of women who unnecessarily undergo prophylactic mastectomies, instead of carefully monitoring symptoms and undergoing regular breast cancer checks.
What each woman does regarding her breast cancer situation is her own decision. Women with a significant family history of breast cancer and/or those who carry the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes are at a high risk for breast and ovarian cancer development which could metastasize to other areas of the body if left untreated or undiagnosed. Though the majority of breast cancer cases are not connected to the gene, anywhere from 5 to 10% of cases are, according to the latest research from the National Cancer Institute and the Mayo Clinic. Not every man or woman who inherits the BRCA gene will get cancer, so the genetic test should be just one factor in deciding the steps to take to lower your chances of getting breast cancer.
The breast cancer gene test is a simple DNA blood test which looks for a specific mutation that deals with normal cell growth. The test does not determine whether or not you have cancer. Instead it only determines the presence of the breast cancer gene mutation. For those who receive a positive result, options for managing their cancer risk can include regular surveillance including mammograms and clinical breast exams, chemoprevention, preventative surgery (like a mastectomy), and/or avoiding behaviors that put one at greater risk for breast cancer.
For those who may choose to undergo a mastectomy to eliminate their chances of getting breast cancer, breast reconstruction is a treatment option to help them regain their previous physiques and maintain the features they once had. Regardless of which plan women with the breast cancer gene choose, it is important to make the aware of them options that are available to help them remain breast cancer free.
Atlanta cosmetic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. James Namnoum works with breast cancer survivors to help them with their breast reconstruction options after mastectomy and lumpectomy surgeries. He is also a founding member of the breast cancer nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization Pink Ribbon Story Foundation which helps share the stories of breast cancer survivors and those currently undergoing treatment.
For more information on breast reconstruction after breast cancer surgery or Dr. Jim Namnoum, contact our office. You can also follow Dr. Namnoum on Facebook and Twitter for the latest in breast cancer and plastic surgery news and updates.
