Dr. Alexis L. Parcells, MD

Dr. Parcells commonly performs labiaplasty, acknowledging the stigma surrounding it and that many women are not open about discussing it. She notes it's not a 'traditional' plastic surgery in the public's eye. The procedure is often sought after puberty, childbirth, or menopause when tissue becomes enlarged and uncomfortable. In her practice, labiaplasty is performed in-office under local anesthesia, with patients awake, and typically takes about 45 minutes. Dr. Parcells uses the wedge technique and dissolvable stitches. Patients go home the same day, describing soreness and discomfort for about four to five days, with a quick return to baseline. Recovery is often easier for patients who have had children. Supportive medication is provided for the first few days. There's a low risk of bacterial infection, but a yeast infection is the most common side effect, for which Diflucan is usually prescribed. Most patients are 'one and done' and do not require revision. The timing of the procedure (before or after children) depends on how much the condition bothers the patient. She routinely performs this procedure on young women, as early as their 20s, due to post-puberty development or new birth control mechanisms. It's considered a simple in-office procedure that can be kept private. Scars heal like mucosal tissue, making them virtually undetectable, and it would be impossible for a non-specialist to tell a labiaplasty was performed. Patients can drive themselves to and from the appointment.

Dr. Parcells considers abdominoplasty probably the most painful cosmetic surgery, as it involves tightening the six-pack muscles and removing extra skin. Patients should expect to be hunched over for the first five to seven days, leading to lower back pain until they are able to fully stand up straight. The muscles in the front will also feel very tight.

As a board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Parcells would 100% not recommend the following procedures: 360 LiPo, buckle fat pad excision, Sculptra, textured breast implants, and UBL (Brazilian butt lift).

Dr. Parcells recommends using SPF 30, stating it's 'plenty' as it blocks 97% of UV rays, with no significantly greater protective benefit from SPF 50 or 100. She advises reapplying sunscreen every two hours or every time one goes into a body of water. For best results, sunscreen should be less than one year old and not left in the heat for prolonged periods, as it can expire.

Liposuction fees vary depending on the specific area(s) being treated, the number of areas, and whether another surgery is being performed concurrently.