Lip lifts have become a popular no-filler procedure to enhance the natural lip line with long-lasting results. Serving the Philadelphia Main Line, plastic surgeon Dr. R. Brannon Claytor is passionate about educating patients on their aesthetic options, and finding the best combinations of non-surgical and plastic surgery procedures to fulfill appearance goals. Today, we are sitting down with him to answer your lip lift FAQs.

• What is a lip lift?
• What does a lip lift do?
• How painful is a lip lift?
• Does a lip lift leave a scar?
• Are lip lifts permanent?
• Are lip lifts worth it?

What is a lip lift?

A lip lift is a plastic surgery procedure that involves removing a horizontal section of the philtrum—the skin between the nose and upper lip—through a small incision directly under the nose, thus repositioning the upper lip and raising it closer to the underside of the nose. This allows more of the lip to be exposed, creating a wider, more defined, and fuller-appearing lip. For many patients, this provides a satisfying improvement that allows them to use less lip filler, or avoid lip injections. Lip lifts are suitable for patients of any age; younger patients typically choose the procedure to create a stronger “cupid’s bow;” lips lifts are also often sought by patients experiencing typical signs of facial aging in their 40s, 50s, 60s, and 70s. While a lip lift is a relatively simple surgical procedure, success is dependent on customizing the procedure to the patient’s anatomy and specific goals.

While a lip lift is a relatively simple surgical procedure, success is dependent on customizing the procedure to the patient’s anatomy and specific goals.

What does a lip lift do?

A lip lift creates a larger upper lip by revealing more of the natural lip and achieving a more defined vermillion border (the lip line), without injections or implants. While it most often addresses thin lips, the procedure can also be used to improve symmetry and achieve a more proportionate look. Good candidates are non-smokers with an elongated philtrum who desire a naturally fuller, more exposed upper lip. However, a lip lift can’t do everything: if you have limited volume, or weathered and wrinkled lips, a lip augmentation with filler like Restylane or Juvéderm may provide a more desirable outcome, or be used in conjunction with a lip lift to achieve a simultaneously volumizing and lifting effect.

How painful is a lip lift?

Local anesthesia is used to completely numb the area so you shouldn’t experience any discomfort during the procedure. Afterward, the incision site will be slightly swollen and tender for 1 to 2 weeks and you will need to be mindful of activity that could strain that area. Cold-compresses and over-the-counter pain relievers can be used as necessary to make the healing process more comfortable. To ensure healing progresses as planned and any residual soreness quickly resolves, avoid excessive lip movements and sleep with your head slightly elevated.

Does a lip lift leave a scar?

There will be a small, thin scar at the incision site that, with proper scar care, should heal to the point of near-invisibility over time. Make-up can be used to cover the healing scar after about 2 weeks; it will continue to fade over the next 3 months until concealer should no longer be necessary. That said, it is critical to protect your scar with sunscreen to avoid a darkened appearance. Should you need to lessen the appearance of a lip lift scar, laser skin resurfacing can be used at a later date.

Are lip lifts permanent?

As with most plastic surgery procedures, a lip lift provides a permanent structural change: the small portion of skin removed will change the relative proportions of your philtrum and upper lip. That said, aging and gravity will continue to affect your lips and skin and some patients, after a decade or more have passed, may wish for a touch-up lip lift procedure to correct for this. As you age, you will also naturally lose volume in your lips and face and may need to compensate for this loss to maintain your desired results; this can be remedied by a variety of facial injectables.

Are lip lifts worth it?

The fairly reasonable cost of lip lift plastic surgery and its short recovery period make it, for the right patient, well-worth the results that can be achieved. According to RealSelf, approximately 92% of patients felt their lip lift was “worth it.” Having a lip lift may even create savings over time, as your results may allow you to use less injectable lip fillers; talk to your plastic surgeon about what you can expect. Additionally, with results lasting up to 10 years or more, a lip lift’s longevity makes this procedure one to strongly consider.

According to RealSelf, approximately 92% of patients felt their lip lift was “worth it.”

Lip lift and lip augmentation in Main Line Philadelphia

If you desire more youthful and volumized lips, Dr. Claytor would be pleased to discuss your options at his Bryn Mawr office in Main Line. He will help you compare a full range of lip enhancement procedures and develop a tailored procedure plan. Schedule your lip lift consultation by contacting the practice online or calling the office at (610) 527-4833.

More about Dr. Claytor

Dr. R. Brannon Claytor is an award-winning, double-board certified plastic surgeon who has been in practice for over 20 years and was named among Philadelphia Magazine’s Top Doctors in 2022. The Philadelphia aesthetic surgeon serves plastic surgery patients in his beautiful Bryn Mawr office which includes an Quad-A-accredited on-site surgical center for the ultimate in safety and privacy.

Adjusting the shape and/or size of your nose has an effect on your entire appearance and presentation. As such, rhinoplasty offers a night-and-day transformation that, for most patients, imparts an exciting boost in confidence. But this transformation does require a surgical recovery period, and it’s important to have clear expectations. Below, board certified plastic surgeon Dr. R. Brannon Claytor answers common questions about recovery after nose reshaping.

Why do I have to wear a splint during rhinoplasty recovery?

You need to wear an internal splint for the first few days after rhinoplasty surgery to support your healing cartilage and bone tissues. This ensures that they remain in the position that your surgeon intended.

After several days, your surgeon will remove splints, along with bandages and nasal packing, and you will get your first look at your developing results. Your nose won’t yet be fully healed, and swelling will still be affecting its shape and size, but you will get a hint of what’s to come as healing progresses.

Many patients feel like their nose is congested after rhinoplasty surgery, and wearing a splint can certainly worsen this. While the recovery period is rarely painful thanks to advanced pain management techniques, it’s important to know that discomfort is normal and to be expected. Plan your ideal recovery space with activities, books, and movies, and be sure you do not have any obligations that will prevent having a restful recovery time. Your body will need to devote much of its energy to the healing process.

Will I have black eyes after rhinoplasty?

Most patients have some amount of bruising beneath their eyes, on either side of the nose, after rhinoplasty. This bruising can look like a “black eye.” Most patients see the majority of bruising and swelling subside after 1-2 weeks, so that they are ready to leave the house to go to restaurants, shop, work, or socialize.

Can I wear glasses or sunglasses after a nose job?

You should not wear glasses or sunglasses for extended periods of time during the first few weeks after surgery. Since glasses rest on your nasal bridge, wearing them is uncomfortable during recovery and could affect your healing process. That said, putting on lightweight reading glasses in short bursts may be okay, with your surgeon’s permission. (For those that cannot function without glasses, we can suggest adaptations based on your needs.)

The exact amount of time before you can regularly wear eyewear again varies from patient to patient, but will probably be no more than 2 weeks after surgery.

When can I work out again after rhinoplasty?

It is unsafe to exercise at your full capacity during the first 4-6 weeks of healing. Strenuous activities can increase your blood pressure to unsafe levels during recovery—this can both affect your health and the integrity of your results (patients who exercise too early often see their nose swell up)! After 3 weeks, however, you may begin to re-incorporate light exercise into your daily routine, gradually increasing to your normal capacity.

Can I do anything to make rhinoplasty swelling go down faster?

The most important thing you can do to facilitate healing (and help the swelling go down) is to follow your board certified plastic surgeon’s pre- and post-operative instructions to the letter. We will provide you with detailed instructions for how to care for yourself after surgery: you will be instructed to rest, place ice packs on your nose in short increments, abstain from smoking, and avoid exercise (among other guidelines). Each of these helps the swelling to go down within a normal time frame.

If you are already following your surgeon’s instructions but hope to boost your post-surgical well-being, there are a few ways to enhance your body’s ability to minimize swelling naturally:

• Eat a healthy diet packed with nutrient-dense foods. A 2018 study shows optimized nutrition is key to healing (and, therefore, your results).
• Eat pineapple or take a bromelain supplement. Found in high amounts in pineapple, bromelain is a natural anti-inflammatory that can help to minimize swelling and bruising.
• Apply arnica-based gels or creams. Be careful to follow your surgeon’s instructions, however, about where and when it is safe to apply creams to your nose.

Expect swelling in your nose to subside top-to-bottom (in the direction of gravity); your nasal tip will be the last area where swelling resolves.

Schedule your rhinoplasty consultation with Dr. Brannon Claytor

Board certified plastic surgeon in Philadelphia Dr. R. Brannon Claytor is here to help you every step of the way, from pre-surgery consultation to questions you have after surgery. He has helped many patients in the Bryn Mawr, Main Line, and Philadelphia area achieve their desired look, as evidenced by his reviews. Learn what Dr. Claytor can do for you by scheduling your consultation online or calling (610) 527-4833 today.

As the mother of the bride or groom, you’re front-row and often center-stage for this exciting event that brings together friends and family from near and far. If we’re being honest, it’s your day, too! So as you prepare to celebrate your son or daughter’s wedding, it’s a good idea to schedule time to take care of you.

In addition to manis and pedis, many women take this opportunity to finally get the cosmetic procedure that’s been on their mind. Others undergo a few maintenance treatments to take care of skin spots, fine lines and wrinkles, or to enhance their naturally beautiful features. Below, we describe the top non-surgical and surgical procedures our Main Line and Philadelphia patients choose to prepare for their son or daughter’s wedding.

Top non-surgical treatments for mothers-of-the-bride

IPL facial

An intense pulse light (IPL) facial evens skin tone, gently tightens the skin, and minimizes the appearance of sun damage and pigmentation, including brown spots, freckles, sun spots, broken blood vessels around the nose, and rosacea.

Timeline: At least 2 months before the wedding; a series of 4+ treatments, spaced about 1 month apart, may be recommended for optimal results.

Many facial treatments achieve best results with a series of 4+ treatments, so aim to visit your plastic surgeon a few months in advance for an optimal transformation.

Laser skin resurfacing

Our fractional laser skin resurfacing treatment is a powerful anti-aging treatment, helping to firm the skin and improve its overall appearance with less downtime than previous generations of laser treatments. You’ll see a gradual improvement in tone, texture, fine lines, and tightness of your skin.

Timeline: At least 3 months before the wedding; a series of treatments (usually between 2 and 5), spaced 3-6 weeks apart, is recommended for optimal results.

Botox

Neuromodulator injections with Botox®, Dysport®, and Xeomin® are a wonderful way to smooth the skin in the upper face. All of these “dynamic” wrinkles are caused by muscle contractions, and neuromodulators work by relaxing those muscles to smooth the skin. Botox can even diminish platysmal bands—the vertical lines in the neck.

Timeline: At least 2 weeks before the wedding; results last 3-4 months.

Dermal fillers

We love dermal fillers for their versatile ability to provide precise enhancements, smooth wrinkles in the lower face, and replace lost volume in the face and hands. Fillers also provide longer-term collagen enhancements, even after they dissolve.

At Claytor Noone Plastic Surgery, we carry a range of product formulas that vary in active ingredients, how long they last, and which areas they are best suited for: Sculptra®, RHA® Fillers, Juvéderm®, Restylane®, and Bellafill®.

Timeline: At least 2 weeks before the wedding; results last 6 months or longer, depending on the product.

Top surgical procedures for mothers of the bride

Facelift and/or neck lift

A facelift or a neck lift turns back the hands of time by repositioning deep tissues and removing excess skin. A facelift (rhytidectomy) addresses sagging cheeks, jowls, and lifts and contours the neck; a neck lift focuses specifically below the chin.

Timeline: At least 3 months before the wedding; results continue to improve for a calendar year.

Lip lift

Over time, the skin above the upper lip loses collagen and lengthens, making lips appear smaller and out of proportion with our features. To achieve long-lasting fuller lips and reverse signs of aging in this area, a lip lift offers a very natural-looking solution. Instead of adding volume, a lip lift allows more of your natural lips to show, enhances your lips’ shape, and allows more of your teeth to show (as needed).

Timeline: At least 2 months before the wedding.

Minimally-invasive neck lift

The minimally-invasive neck lift with MyEllevate requires only a tiny, imperceptible incision for a lift that supports the underlying structures that appear to “fall” with age. With no lengthy incisions, no scars, and no general anesthesia, MyEllevate restores a well-defined, attractive jawline and chin. It is performed in about 2 hours in our office, and requires less than a week of recovery time. (You’ll need to avoid exercising or vigorous activities, however, for a few more weeks.)

Timeline: At least 3 weeks before the wedding.

Planning ahead for surgical procedures is important, since results may improve up to a year after surgery, and surgical scars continue to diminish over time.

Arm lift (brachioplasty)

An arm lift tones and tightens sagging skin in the upper arms (from shoulder to elbow) so that you can comfortably bare them at your son or daughter’s summer wedding. Through an incision along the inside of the upper arm, Dr. Claytor tightens muscles in the area and removes excess skin and unwanted fat pockets for a slimmer, tighter contour that looks elegant in sleeveless clothes.

Timeline: At least 3 months before the wedding; final shaping results are apparent and incisions will be fully healed after about 4-8 weeks. That said, arm lift scars continue to fade and improve over time—so if baring your upper arms at the event is a priority, you may wish to plan your procedure closer to a year in advance.

Related: Read our tips about caring for your arm lift results »

Eyelid lift (blepharoplasty)

Puffy, sagging, or tired-looking eyes detract from your overall appearance, and often make us look angry or tired even when we’re at our most joyful and alert. An eyelid lift removes excess tissue along hooded upper eyelids and tightens as needed in the lower eyelids—in effect, transforming your overall facial appearance.

Timeline: At least 2 months before the wedding; final results continue to improve subtly for up to several months.

Breast augmentation

Breast implants can improve breast size and shape to restore a balanced, proportional figure. A breast augmentation can be safely combined with a breast lift (the combination is called an augmentation mastopexy) to also raise the breasts higher on the chest, remove excess skin, and restore a natural-looking areola.

Timeline: At least 1 month before the wedding.

Tummy tuck

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, transforms your figure by restoring a firm, smooth abdomen. Abdominal muscles are tightened (and any separation is corrected), and excess skin is re-draped for a naturally slim abdominal appearance.

Dr. Claytor is renowned for his drainless tummy tuck technique, a specialized procedure that is more than just a tummy tuck without a drain. A drainless tummy tuck involves leaving a thin layer of scarpa’s fascia (connective tissue) intact to allow the body’s natural lymphatic drainage system to eliminate fluids after surgery. This makes post-surgical drains unnecessary, while also improving the blood supply to the area and reducing the amount of traumatic tissue disruption.

Timeline: At least 1 month before the wedding.

Visit Dr. Brannon Claytor for all of your pre-wedding cosmetic needs in Philadelphia

Dr. R. Brannon Claytor serves the Philadelphia and Main Line areas with a full range of cosmetic procedures and treatments. With over 20 years of experience in plastic surgery, Dr. Claytor is a sought-after expert in minimally-invasive and innovative surgical techniques. To set up your personal consultation and learn what Dr. Claytor would recommend for achieving your appearance goals in time for your son or daughter’s wedding, call our practice at 610.527.4833 or reach out to us online today.

No amount of exercise and no diet can eliminate excess skin, which can pose a hygiene issue, feel uncomfortable when exercising, and obscure the results of your weight loss. After you’ve reached a weight you find satisfactory, tummy tuck and body lift are both excellent options to deal with this problem, popular among men and women alike for restoring a natural shape and firm skin tone.

So how to choose? If you haven’t yet consulted with a plastic surgeon, you may be wondering which procedure they would most likely recommend. This blog is for you.

Why do patients seek tummy tucks, body lifts, and other body contouring?

Both a tummy tuck and a lower body lift are procedures that restore your shape after a change in body weight has left you with loose skin. A loss of skin elasticity occurs naturally with aging, and stretched tissues do not always contract. Tummy tucks are a common solution for excess skin, stubborn fat, and a tummy pooch after pregnancy or weight loss, while a body lift is more common after massive weight loss. Before either procedure, you need to be in good health, with no plans for future pregnancies, and at a stable weight you are happy with.

Tummy tuck

A tummy tuck (also called abdominoplasty) is a less extensive procedure than a body lift, and most body lifts include a tummy tuck as just one part of the procedure. A tummy tuck treats the front of the abdomen, tightening the underlying abdominal musculature, tightening skin, removing excess tissues, and re-draping the skin. As you can see in before and after pictures, a tummy tuck cinches the waist and creates an hourglass-shaped figure. A tummy tuck does not affect the hips or buttocks.

Every patient requires a customized tummy tuck procedure plan, so choose a surgeon who is well-versed in tummy tuck techniques. Certain patients may be good candidates for a drainless tummy tuck, which uses a special technique that allows for recovery without a drain inserted at the incision site. This technique spares the scarpa fascia, which is a layer of tissue located above the muscle. This leaves the body’s own lymphatic drainage system in place and eliminates the need for you to wear a surgical drain at the incision site. This is a different technique from a traditional tummy tuck, and requires a specialist; Dr. Claytor holds years of experience with this technique, and has taught his method to fellow surgeons at national conferences.

We also often typically include a tummy tuck in a full mommy makeover—a customized set of procedures, such as breast surgery, tummy tuck, and liposuction—that contours your shape post-pregnancy.

High lateral tension abdominoplasty (HLTA tummy tuck)

For patients who desire an enhanced waistline definition and tone, Dr. Claytor also offers a high lateral tension abdominoplasty, or HLTA tummy tuck. This technique involves tightening skin not just vertically downward toward the pubic area, but also horizontally toward each hip bone, a technique that is thought to achieve a more ideal contour in the center of the abdomen for certain patients. A slightly longer incision, wrapping a few inches around the front of the hip bones, is necessary to achieve best results with this technique. Depending on your anatomy, Dr. Claytor may recommend this particular technique for you.

Lower body lifts

While tummy tucks have risen in popularity in recent years, you are wise to compare it with a lesser understood procedure, the body lift. This procedure goes by many names—belt lipectomy, lower body lift, 360 tummy tuck, or circumferential tummy tuck—but they all refer to the same set of techniques used to address loose skin. If you have had bariatric surgery, lost a significant amount of weight (commonly, 100 pounds or more), or are left with loose skin after pregnancy, a body lift can raise and tighten excess skin and stretched muscles encircling the waist and hips, including some or all of these lower body areas:

• Outer thigh (lateral thigh)
• Flanks (“love handles”)
• Hips
• Buttocks
• Lower back
• Abdomen
• Upper pubic area

For certain patients, a body lift may be combined with a thigh lift or an arm lift for more comprehensive rejuvenation. The procedure is fully customized for each patient, so a consultation with an experienced, board certified plastic surgeon is the best way to learn what would be included based on your goals.

Real Patient Story: Our 31-year-old patient lost 100 pounds and desired post massive weight loss surgery to remove excess skin. We performed a 360-degree tummy tuck and breast lift with implants. Her “after” photos were taken 4 months post-op after extreme weight loss. View photos of this patient in our gallery »

Before & After Gallery

Dr. Brannon Claytor uses advanced techniques to provide natural-looking outcomes. See the results for yourself in our patient gallery.

Visit our patient gallery

Do I need a tummy tuck, HLTA tummy tuck, or body lift?

You may be a good candidate for a tummy tuck if you desire a procedure to address stretched muscles and skin in your abdomen area in order to achieve a sculpted waistline. On the other hand, you may be a good candidate for a body lift if you desire removal of excess skin in your sides and back as well as in the front of the abdomen.

For patients who may be candidates for either a tummy tuck or a body lift, a high lateral tension abdominoplasty (HLTA tummy tuck) offers results that may improve more of the thigh, hip, and buttocks area than a tummy tuck, without the circumferential incision required of a body lift. The upper part of the thighs, upper pubic area, and groin also receive some tightening benefits from the high lateral tension technique.

How do tummy tuck scars compare with lower body lift scars?

With a traditional tummy tuck, your scars will be located above the pubic area from hip bone to hip bone, inside the panty line. Most tummy tucks also require a small incision that is hidden within the belly button.

A high lateral tension tummy tuck incision is slightly longer, so you will end up with scars that extend around the sides of the waist a few inches past the hip bone.

A body lift, on the other hand, requires a more extensive incision that extends around the circumference of the body, but is also hidden within the underwear line above the hip bones.

Dr. R. Brannon Claytor offers a range of body contouring procedures to patients from the Bryn Mawr, Main Line, and Philadelphia areas. A board certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Claytor has presented his tummy tuck techniques at numerous national plastic surgery conferences and courses. In 2021, he was named one of America’s best plastic surgeons by Newsweek magazine and a Top Doctor by Philadelphia Magazine. To learn more or schedule your personal consultation with Dr. Claytor, call 610.527.4833 or reach out online to receive a call back from our staff.

Minimally invasive facial rejuvenation methods provide patients with a much-needed alternative to facelift surgery while allowing for greater enhancement than non-surgical methods, like radiofrequency and cosmetic injections, can deliver alone. Many of our Bryn Mawr patients in their 40s and 50s are just beginning to experience the volume loss and tissue sagging associated with the normal aging process but don’t need a full facelift. For these patients, the Silhouette InstaLift™ is often an ideal option.

While the Silhouette InstaLift won’t deliver the full results of a Philadelphia facelift, it can lift sagging tissues, contour the face, and improve skin quality. If you’re considering facial rejuvenation in the Main Line area, this blog can help you determine whether a Silhouette InstaLift or a facelift is right for you.

What is the Silhouette InstaLift?

The Silhouette InstaLift is a minimally invasive facial contouring procedure that lifts and repositions tissues in the mid and lower face, reducing unwanted “jowling” and improving the appearance of nasolabial folds and marionette lines. To perform the Silhouette InstaLift, double-board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Claytor inserts a very thin needle beneath the skin, which is attached to a thread containing a series of tiny, biodegradable “cones.” As the cones are threaded beneath the skin, they grasp onto suspensory ligaments, causing fat and subdermal tissues to contract and lift. The desired result is high, contoured cheeks that segway into a smooth jawline.

The Silhouette InstaLift provides a much-needed alternative to surgical and non-surgical facial rejuvenation procedures.

The Silhouette InstaLift increases collagen production

In addition to lifting and contouring tissues, the materials used for the Silhouette InstaLift also stimulate collagen production, gradually improving skin texture, volume, and thickness over the following 6 months. While a Silhouette InstaLift won’t take a full decade off your appearance as a facelift can, you can expect to see fewer fine lines and wrinkles and enjoy more supple skin. For most patients, results are immediate, discrete, and visible for up to 24 months.

The Silhouette InstaLift can be used for all skin types and textures. At Claytor Noone Plastic Surgery, Dr. Claytor will customize your Silhouette InstaLift to meet your unique skin type and aesthetic goals.

Is the Silhouette InstaLift a thread lift?

The short answer is, yes and no. While the Silhouette InstaLift does use threads to tighten and suspend sagging facial tissues, technically classifying it as a thread lift, it is different from other thread lifts for a few reasons:

1. The Silhouette InstaLift uses poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) threads, while typical thread lifts use polydioxanone (PDO).
2. The Silhouette InstaLift uses tiny bidirectional cones to lift the skin, while a PDO thread lift uses barbs. Barbed threads can lead to undesirable results, such as visible tracks on the skin when a person makes facial expressions.
3. The Silhouette InstaLift requires fewer threads than a PDO thread lift.
4. The Silhouette InstaLift’s PLLA threads dissolve after 4 to 6 months, while PDO threads can take up to 9 months to fully dissolve.

Silhouette InstaLift vs. facelift surgery

Both the Silhouette InstaLift and facelift surgery reposition tissues beneath the skin to contour the face and provide structure, but they differ in how they accomplish this. Here are a few key differences between the two procedures:

Silhouette InstaLift

• No surgery required. The Silhouette InstaLift is considered a minimally invasive procedure because it doesn’t require surgery; however, the tiny needle used does puncture the skin.
• No scarring. Dr. Claytor will make entry and exit points for your Silhouette InstaLift, but no incisions are required.
• Performed under local anesthesia. Dr. Claytor injects local anesthesia at your entry and exit points. You may feel a slight pulling from the threads, but should not feel any pain.
• Short procedure. The Silhouette InstaLift is conducted in our office in about an hour.
• Minimal recovery period. You may experience minor soreness, bruising, and swelling for a few days after your procedure, but these side effects should quickly subside. Most of our patients find that they feel comfortable socializing in public 3 days after their procedure.
• Results are instant. Silhouette InstaLift results can be seen immediately, with full results apparent after 6 to 12 weeks. On average, results last for 18 months to 2+ years.

Facelift

• Requires surgery. A facelift is a surgical procedure requiring multiple incisions and the manipulation of fat, muscle, and skin.
• Involves skin excision. In addition to incisions, a facelift typically involves a degree of skin excision to smooth the outermost surface of the skin, an important step for patients who need to treat more advanced skin sagging.
• May result in some scarring. Because incisions are required for facelift surgery, the procedure will likely result in some minor scarring. (As a highly-skilled plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience performing facelifts, Dr. Claytor is able to expertly conceal scars behind the ears or in the hairline.)
• May require general anesthesia. Most plastic surgeons have patients undergo general anesthesia for a facelift procedure. That said, Dr. Claytor is one of the few plastic surgeons in the Bryn Mawr area that gives his patients the option to undergo local or general anesthesia for facelift surgery. We find that, when given the option, 90% of our patients prefer local anesthesia, which offers a quicker recovery than general anesthesia and can be administered in our Quad-A certified surgical center.

The Silhouette InstaLift is ideal for patients who have early signs of facial aging or wish to rejuvenate results from previous facial surgery.

Which procedure is right for me?

While both of these procedures can leave you looking and feeling younger and revitalized, each is distinctively designed for specific candidates:

• The Silhouette InstaLift is ideal for patients who have early signs of facial aging and are at or close to a healthy weight. You may also be a good candidate for the Silhouette InstaLift if you have previously undergone a facelift or another facial surgery but have noticed your results begin to fade with age. You can expect to get about 25% of the result of a surgical facelift with the Silhouette InstaLift.
• A facelift is ideal for patients with advanced skin laxity who wish to turn back the clock a decade or more. Because a skilled facelift surgeon will typically manipulate your SMAS layer, a facelift provides a result that the Silhouette InstaLift simply cannot. Dr. Claytor offers facelifts for men and facelifts for women.

Dr. Claytor can help you determine if you’re a better candidate for the Silhouette InstaLift or a facelift during a personal consultation.

Schedule your Bryn Mawr facial rejuvenation consultation with Dr. Claytor

With over 20 years of plastic surgery experience, double-board certified plastic surgeon Dr. R. Brannon Claytor has the skill and experience needed to provide beautiful, yet subtle, Silhouette InstaLift results. If you’re considering facial rejuvenation in the Philadelphia area, Dr. Claytor can help you determine whether a Silhouette InstaLift, facelift, or another treatment will best fit your facial profile and aesthetic goals. Contact us online or call (610) 527-4833 to learn more.

Do you shop early, or do you procrastinate until the very last day the stores are open? We’re not judging! Either way, you find a way to get everything you need for the holidays. But there’s one thing you really can’t put off any longer: your non-surgical treatments and cosmetic injectables.

Now is the time to book treatments in order to make time for optimum results to develop. Botox®, for example, takes up to two weeks for full effects, and our favorite non-surgical “facelift” techniques require time for swelling to subside before you will be ready to throw a holiday party.

Ready to jump-start your holiday shimmer? Here are our top treatments to book now.

1. Silhouette InstaLift Thread Lift

If you are in your 40s or 50s and aren’t quite ready for a facelift, the Silhouette InstaLift Thread Lift can restore the V-shape of your face, enhance your natural beauty, and help you look more youthful. Performed right here in our office by Dr. Claytor, the procedure involves inserting tiny dissolvable threads beaded with collagen-stimulating cones below the skin to create more firm, full, and high cheeks, as well as lifted, smoother jowls.

Patients see an instant lift of the face, with gradually-improving results thanks to increased collagen production throughout the 6 months following treatment. Schedule this procedure at least 2 weeks out from any big events: while patients typically get back to work after about 48 hours, some swelling, bruising, and tenderness can persist for about 1-2 weeks.

2. MyEllevate® Neck Lift

The MyEllevate Neck Lift is a revolutionary way to lift the neck and enhance the lower face and jawline. Using a minimally-invasive, light-guided system (and no visible incisions), the neck is lifted and the corners of the jaws are brought into relief, creating a beautiful silhouette and a noticeable improvement to a “turkey neck” or ill-defined jawline.

The procedure is performed in our office under local anesthesia, yet achieves long-lasting results with only 1-2 days of downtime. Still, you’ll need to avoid heavy lifting or exercising for a few weeks, so schedule your MyEllevate neck lift a few weeks out to be fully back to normal in time for the busy holiday season.

3. Injectable dermal fillers

This season is the perfect time to invest in some injectable “tweakments” to smooth and plump your features just in time for holiday gatherings. Our expert injectors can address wrinkles, rebuild volume to sunken cheeks, smooth tear troughs, or create your perfect pout using the array of fillers and neuromodulators we offer at our Philadelphia practice:

• Restylane®: This family of hyaluronic acid fillers includes formulas with special textures for achieving a particular look in many different areas of the face and hands. For example, Restylane Silk™ is a choice filler for the tear troughs, while Restylane Kysse™ creates flexible volume in the lips. Most of these fillers last 1-2 years, with some variation among the formulas.
• Juvéderm®: The Juvéderm hyaluronic acid fillers include formulas that are ideal for treating the lips (Juvéderm Volbella™), cheeks (Juvéderm Voluma™) , wrinkles (Juvéderm Vollure™), and more. Different formulas last anywhere from 1-2 years.
• Revance RHA® Collection: “Resilient hyaluronic acid” fillers RHA 2, 3, and 4 are the first fillers FDA-cleared to work for up to 15 months in dynamic wrinkles, like the smile lines (nasolabial folds). Anywhere you have wrinkles that move when you form expressions, we can lift and smooth using the RHA fillers.
• Sculptra®: This poly-L-lactic acid-based filler stimulates collagen, creating subtle results that improve your appearance naturally over time. We like to use this versatile filler in the smile lines, as well as to rebuild lost volume in the cheeks.
• Bellafill®: Bellafill is a collagen-based filler that gives you lasting results (up to 5 years!) by stimulating your body’s natural collagen production. Bellafill works well in deep wrinkles or folds, such as the “smile lines,” or even to smooth acne scars.

4. Neuromodulators like Botox® Cosmetic

Neuromodulators work by using a form of botulinum toxin that blocks the signals between nerves and muscles that cause dynamic wrinkles.

• Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin®, and Daxxify™: We can temporarily smooth dynamic wrinkles—like frown lines, crow’s feet, forehead furrows, and even vertical neck bands—with these tried-and-true neuromodulator formulas.

Neuromodulator results require up to 2 weeks to develop, and swelling and bruising after filler may take 1-2 weeks to subside, so book your injectables appointment at least 2 weeks out from special occasions.

In the Bryn Mawr, Main Line, and Philadelphia area? Schedule your holiday treatments today.

Ready to trust your looks to the best? Double-board certified plastic surgeon Dr. R. Brannon Claytor is an expert in helping patients achieve the look they desire, with minimal discomfort and downtime. A widely published and renowned expert in numerous surgical and minimally invasive techniques, Dr. Claytor carefully chooses and supervises all treatment options at Claytor Noone Plastic Surgery. To learn what Dr. Claytor and our team can do for you, schedule your consultation today by calling 610.527.4833 or contacting us online.

Wedding bells are set to ring, and you need someone to capture your special day! Thankfully, we’re lucky to have many skilled wedding photographers in the Philadelphia area. To save you the work of sifting through countless search results and make planning your big day a little easier, we’ve compiled our 4 favorite local wedding photographers in the Bryn Mawr and Main Line area.

Andrea Krout

Andrea has a way of making you feel completely at ease in front of the camera—a rare feeling for anyone who’s ever been photographed extensively. She is ready to invest in your story and get to know you, the person in front of her camera. And, as a recent bride herself, she understands just how exciting (and stressful) wedding planning can be.

A brief scroll through Andrea’s Instagram profile reveals photos that are light and airy, yet richly detailed and always full of emotion. If you’re looking for a wedding photographer who will take the time to understand and support your vision, and who has the skills to capture it all, look no further than Andrea Krout Photography.

 

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Pictures by Todd Photography

Over the years, Pictures by Todd Photography has grown from a one-man operation to a whole team of professional photographers and production staff. We love the company’s creativity and attention to detail, like how they’ve captured the bride and groom’s wedding bands in the picture below. From gardens to churches, and everywhere in between, the team at Pictures by Todd knows how to capture the joy of your wedding day! Pictures by Todd has won numerous awards, including WeddingWire’s 2019 Couple’s Choice Award.

 

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Jeff Anderson Photography

Jeff has a way of capturing his subjects’ natural beauty that feels organic and totally original. There’s no doubt you work hard preparing for your special day, yet Jeff is able to make your beauty look effortless. His company, Jeff Anderson Photography, is a Best of Fash.com 2020 award winner and has over 40 five-star reviews on WeddingWire. Be sure to check out his Facebook page to see an array of wedding photos guaranteed to inspire!

 

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Ashley Gerrity Photography

We all know when we’re being photographed and so badly want the photos to turn out that it can be hard to relax and look natural! But a truly great wedding photographer will make having your photo taken a breeze; just ask Ashley Gerrity Photography. Ashley and her team seamlessly move between motivating guests for memorable photos, then fade into the background to capture the unstaged moments that make a wedding album unique. This ability to read a room and stay dialed into their subject’s energy is a unique skill that has led Ashley Gerrity Photography to be featured in some of the country’s top wedding publications, including Modern Luxury Weddings – Philadelphia, The Knot, Dream Weddings Magazine, and HuffPost, to name a few.

 

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Look your best on your wedding day with Bryn Mawr plastic surgeon Dr. Claytor

Double-board certified plastic surgeon Dr. R. Brannon Claytor and our team of aesthetic experts can help you make looking beautiful one less thing to worry about on your wedding day with a full selection of rejuvenating wedding treatments + procedures. In addition to being featured in a multi-page spread in Modern Luxury Weddings – Philadelphia, Dr. Claytor has been recognized as a RealSelf Top Doctor and a Top Doctor of 2021 by Philadelphia Magazine. From non-invasive skincare treatments to downtime-free body contouring options, we can help you plan your perfect wedding makeover—just contact us online or call (610) 527-4833 to get started!

The Bryn Mawr plastic surgeon was recognized by his peers for his exceptional skill and expertise in rhinoplasty.

Bryn Mawr, PA, July 2021—R. Brannon Claytor, M.D., F.A.C.S., was recently named one of “America’s Best Plastic Surgeons 2021” by Newsweek, a distinction reserved for the top specialists in the field of plastic surgery.

“I am honored to be named as one of America’s ‘Best Plastic Surgeons’ by Newsweek. My career has been focused on bringing the most sophisticated, advanced treatment approaches to patients, and I am delighted to be recognized for my surgical skills. This distinction would not be possible without the support and encouragement of my medical colleagues as well as all the wonderful patients I have had the pleasure of serving,” said the renowned Bryn Mawr plastic surgeon.

Newsweek conducted a national survey among plastic surgeons and other medical professionals, asking them to recommend the best plastic surgeons in their state and across the U.S. based on several quality dimensions. Dr. Claytor was chosen for his exceptional skill and experience in performing rhinoplasty, an extremely nuanced procedure.

It can be daunting trying to choose a plastic surgeon, and Newsweek’s survey can play an important role in helping people make informed decisions, especially when it comes to delicate procedures like rhinoplasty. According to Dr. Claytor, “Rhinoplasty is a highly technical procedure which involves altering the shape and size of the most visible physical attribute of a person’s face. Rhinoplasty can be transformative for a patient’s appearance and confidence and has the added benefits of improving breathing and correcting injury-related deformities. I am proud to offer rhinoplasty at my practice with the full confidence of both my peers and my patients.”

Dr. Claytor is a renowned double-board certified plastic surgeon in the Philadelphia area

Dr. Claytor’s superb skill and results have been recognized for over a decade, earning him numerous other awards, including a Philadelphia Magazine “Top Doctor” from 2017 to 2021 and one of Main Line Today’s “Top Doctors” from 2015 to 2020.

In addition to rhinoplasty, Dr. Claytor is well known for his expertise in cosmetic and reconstructive procedures ranging from breast augmentations to facelifts. He is passionate about improving the recovery process for his patients, and is one of the few plastic surgeons that offers a scarpa-sparing abdominoplasty, also known as a “drainless tummy tuck.” Dr. Claytor is also an expert at breast augmentation and utilizes the Crisalix imaging system to assist patients in choosing the right size and shape implant.

Dr. Claytor is also unique in that he performs 90% of his facelifts as ‘awake’ procedures in his Quad-A-accredited surgical facility using local anesthetic and minimal incisions. This approach has significant benefits.

About Dr. R. Brannon Claytor

Dr. R. Brannon Claytor’s warmth and attention to his patients’ needs make him one of the Philadelphia area’s favorite plastic surgeons. His knowledge of and continual training in the most advanced surgical techniques provide his patients with up-to-date, cutting-edge care that yields exceptional results. Dr. Claytor’s practice, Claytor Noone Plastic Surgery, is located at 135 S Bryn Mawr Ave Suite 300, Bryn Mawr, PA 19010. Dr. Claytor can be reached at (610) 527-4833 or at www.cnplasticsurgery.com.

Media contact: Dr. R. Brannon Claytor, Claytor Noone Plastic Surgery, (610) 527-4833, www.cnplasticsurgery.com.

Recovery timelines vary based on the procedure you choose: you may need a few weeks to bounce back from a tummy tuck, while breast augmentation patients are often back to their routine in a matter of days. But regardless of the procedure you choose, your surgeon’s method of performing the surgery will have an influence on your recovery experience.

While it may seem like every plastic surgeon would want you to recover quickly, some go the extra mile and tailor the procedure with your recovery in mind. In a recent article published in Haute Living, Dr. R. Brannon Claytor offered some insight into how he helps to minimize his plastic surgery patients’ downtime. Here are his 5 main techniques and what they mean for patients.

1. Considering less invasive alternatives

As cosmetic technology advances, your options expand for non- and minimally-invasive alternatives to surgery. An up-to-date surgeon will guide you to the least invasive option that will effectively accomplish your goals.

For example, Dr. Claytor has found that not all patients with a “turkey neck” or double chin need to go under general anesthesia for a neck lift. Instead, Dr. Claytor has had excellent success with the MyEllevate minimally-invasive neck lift for a reduced double chin and enhanced jawline. It offers dramatic results that rival surgery for the right patient, and it requires only local anesthesia and no downtime.

2. Offering all possible options for your surgical plan

A compassionate surgeon considers the details of your recovery experience when they make decisions about your surgical plan and technique. For example, traditional tummy tuck technique requires the patient to wear a cumbersome drain at the incision site during recovery, but it’s possible to have a faster tummy tuck recovery without a drain, thanks to advanced techniques.

Dr. Claytor’s drainless tummy tuck is not merely the same tummy tuck procedure minus a drain; rather, this advanced surgical technique leaves the body’s own lymphatic drainage system in place, eliminating the need for a cumbersome plastic drain to be worn during recovery. Dr. Claytor has found that patients recover faster without drains. He likes to see patients up and showering the day after surgery, as this movement helps patients to return to normal more quickly. His drainless technique has been so successful that he has used this technique exclusively for over ten years.

With numerous non-surgical procedures available, experienced surgeons know how to choose the least invasive option that will get your desired results.

3. Minimizing anesthesia

Your anesthesia plan has an important impact on your experience during recovery. An experienced, research-driven plastic surgeon will select the least intensive anesthesia plan possible, while also keeping you comfortable. In this way, your surgeon can minimize the amount of time you spend recovering not just from surgery, but also from anesthesia.

There are many examples of procedures that, with the right technique (and training in the right options, as mentioned above), allow your surgeon to use local anesthesia with sedation. Dr. Claytor performs a deep plane facelift, for example, as an “awake procedure” using a minimal-incision technique. This allows patients to enjoy a few key benefits compared with traditional facelift surgical techniques under general anesthesia:

• Patients do not suffer the unpleasant side effects of general anesthesia
• Patients experience less bruising
• Patients can typically be out in public in about 2 weeks
• The results look very natural, as muscles are repositioned without any “pulling”

4. Advising you on pre- and post-operative care

While your surgeon’s technique is of the utmost importance, your surgical outcome is also influenced by your health status before and after surgery. Here’s how Dr. Claytor helps his patients in this regard.

Pre-operative protocols

Forward-thinking plastic surgeons encourage you to begin your recovery regimen ahead of time, which includes quitting smoking, eating a nutrition-packed diet, and taking the right vitamins. At Claytor Noone Plastic Surgery, we encourage patients to begin a vitamin regimen that has been shown to promote and even accelerate healing.

Post-operative care

Excellent plastic surgeons also realize that results require proper care post-operatively, and they will guide you in all the nuances of nutrition, wound care, and appropriate activity levels in the days following surgery.

Those who go above and beyond also provide you with the products that can optimize healing. For example, Dr. Claytor encourages his liposuction patients to use Alastin® cosmeceuticals for post-op care. These topical formulas, applied like a lotion, supply a hefty dose of peptides as the skin heals, helping to reduce swelling and pain—common side effects that can prolong your recovery process. They also help improve the appearance of the skin, further optimizing your results.

5. Operating with efficiency

The longer you spend under anesthesia, the more time it will take for you to feel alert and normal again after surgery. Your plastic surgeon should work quickly and efficiently with their surgical team, leaving you “open” for as little time as possible during surgical procedures. Surgical teams work as a unit to make the process as efficient as possible; avoid surgeons who pause surgery for social media photo and video ops, as this may be a sign that they are not putting their patient’s recovery first.

Ready to consult with a caring, experienced plastic surgeon? Call Dr. Claytor today.

Dr. Brannon Claytor is a board certified plastic surgeon serving the greater Philadelphia area. With over 20 years of surgical experience and research-driven practices, Dr. Claytor is committed to providing outstanding results safely and effectively. Schedule your consultation today by calling 610.527.4833 or contacting our practice online.

Dermal fillers can be used two ways: to enhance your existing features—such as with lip filler for a plush pout—or to correct volume loss throughout the face. Neuromodulators, like BOTOX®, are used primarily to smooth wrinkles. In the hands of an experienced injector, injectables of both kinds can enhance your natural anatomy while keeping you looking natural and preserving your ability to form natural facial expressions.

Unfortunately, some people end up with asymmetrical results or an over-filled appearance (colloquially called “duck lips” or “trout pout”) that makes it clear they had work done. If you have received a result that looks less natural than you’d hoped, don’t panic: today’s blog covers many of the ways injectables can turn out poorly, how we diagnose the issue at our office, and the methods we have for fixing a sub-par result.

Note that an unsatisfactory result is different from an adverse effect from filler: Seek emergency medical attention if you have an adverse reaction to filler, such as a change in vision, blue skin discoloration, blanching, or severe pain, as these may be signs of a punctured blood vessel. Mild reactions such as swelling, bruising, or redness usually clear up within 2 weeks of receiving filler.

These bad injectable techniques can leave you looking “fake”

To end up with gorgeous results, your injector must use the appropriate products in the right areas, customized to your unique features. Unfortunately, inexperienced injectors can make certain aesthetic mistakes that create a “botched” look or other unsatisfactory results. Here are 4 common reasons why this happens.

1. Over-injection directly in the area of concern

Good results require an eye for aesthetics—the ability to examine your features and understand how injection in one area will change the balance throughout the rest of your face. This is more complex than treating one area at a time. If you visit an injector because of one area that’s bothering you, they should consider the balance of your facial features, and consider all possibilities for achieving your desired look.

For example, if a patient complains of marionette lines (which extend from the sides of the mouth to the chin), injecting filler solely in these lines tends to lead to an unsatisfactory outcome. Instead, dermal filler injected into the related areas of the mouth and jawline may improve the overall contour of the area, creating a more youthful lower face appearance without directly changing the area of concern. Depending on the patient, filler may be injected below the corners of the mouth to subtly lift the mouth’s expression, and/or along the jawline to rebuild lost volume that contributes to a sagging appearance in the lower face.

2. Focusing on one or two features, rather than correcting overall volume loss with filler

Similar to over-injecting in the area of concern, it’s key that your injector consider overall volume loss rather than focusing only on certain areas. Because aging occurs throughout the face, all features should be considered in relation to one another to achieve a natural look with injectables. Rather than focusing on each wrinkle and line, fillers are sometimes best used to reverse aging by building up volume to refresh key facial areas (i.e. thin lips) that contribute to your youthful appearance.

3. Trying to get surgical-level results with injectables

Excess loose skin or certain issues like jowling and deep marionette folds cannot always be satisfactorily treated with dermal filler or Botox-type neuromodulators, and may require a surgical procedure. In these cases, your board certified plastic surgeon should consult with you on the full range of options, and what outcomes you can expect from each.

An experienced injector will not provide unsatisfactory treatment with injectables to a patient who desires more of a change than injectables can provide. A trustworthy injector will help you understand what results you can realistically expect from each treatment.

4. Using the wrong injectable product

It’s the injector, and not the product, that influences your results the most. But you do want your injector to choose the right products for the area they are addressing! There are numerous filler products for a reason: each has been developed to deliver the right amount of flexibility and/or cohesivity for specific areas of the face.

Using the right product involves you as a patient: it’s important to go in with an open mind. Instead of demanding a specific product, focus on your aesthetic goals (“I want to look less tired” or “I want to improve the shape of my upper lip”) and follow your injector’s advice. A qualified injector will have worked with many products and understand where and how they can best be used to achieve your desired results.

Bad results? How to choose an experienced injector for dermal filler correction

If you’ve received a bad result, the most important next step is to find an injector who can evaluate the cause of the problem and help you correct it. Here are some suggestions:

• Training & Qualifications: Choose either a board certified plastic surgeon who performs the injections themselves, or a physician assistant or registered nurse who offers injectables under the direction of a board certified plastic surgeon. Either way, confirm they have undergone specialty training in correction of dermal filler results.
• Experience: The best injectors have had the chance to learn from experience, through years of regularly treating patients. Ask how many injections they perform each month, and, even more importantly, what their experience is correcting poor results from other injectors.
• Style: Make sure that you like the injector’s sense of aesthetics, or style. Your injector should have numerous before and after photos taken of previous patients either on their website, social media accounts, or in their office. Look for patients that resemble you in the “before” photos and reflect an outcome you like in the “after” photos.

How our experienced injectors fix bad dermal filler results

At Claytor Noone Plastic Surgery, we have helped many patients with injectables correction. If you have a bad dermal filler result, your results may be fixed using these correction techniques:

1. Hyaluronic acid-based fillers can be dissolved

Whether you received too much filler, the filler appears lumpy and does not improve with massage, or your results simply don’t look right, we may be able to use the enzyme hyaluronidase to dissolve the filler if you received dermal filler injections with a hyaluronic acid-based product, such as Juvéderm® and Restylane®.

After the enzyme injection, it takes about 24-48 hours to dissolve the filler. In cases where hyaluronic acid fillers were injected poorly, this allows us a clean slate to reevaluate your anatomy to find a treatment plan that will achieve your desired results.

2. Artful reinjection can give you an excellent result

Expert injectors will be able to handle reinjections artfully, achieving an excellent aesthetic outcome in many cases. Even if we are not able to dissolve your existing filler or change your neuromodulator injections, there are artful ways to use filler and BOTOX® to adjust the overall contour and draw attention to certain areas of your face.

While your particular treatment plan will be unique based on what you want, there are many techniques that our injectors use to enhance your features, rebuild volume, and ultimately help you look like your best self:

• Restore lost volume in the brow fat pad, which lifts your brow arch and frames your eyes
• Build volume in the cheeks to enhance your bone structure
• Use BOTOX® in the masseter muscle to slim the jawline and draw attention to the natural “V-line” of your face
• Build a defined jawline with filler
• Smooth the appearance of acne scars
• Relax the upper lip to define its shape with BOTOX®

Many treatment plans also involve replacing lost volume with filler in areas such as the temples, tear troughs, cheeks, nasolabial folds, upper lip, and jawline. These areas can also contribute to more balanced results.

Visit Claytor Noone Plastic Surgery for injectable filler, BOTOX®, and a range of other non-surgical and surgical options

The best way to avoid a botched injectable result is to choose a trustworthy injector. For those near the Philadelphia Main Line, Dr. Brannon Claytor and physician assistant Julie Holesh at Claytor Noone Plastic Surgery have the skills to give you gorgeous results safely. Whether you are ready for full facial rejuvenation with filler, want to add plumpness to a specific area, or would like to consult with an expert on your facial rejuvenation options, book your consultation today by calling (610) 527-4833.