This is the third installment of three videos about tummy tucks (abdominoplasty) San Francisco. The original post is here just click: Common Questions About Tummy Tucks (Abdominoplasty). This video is from my recent appearance on KRON’s Body Beautiful, with host Vicki Liviakis.
The 800 number on the video was for the live show, to contact my office for a consultation appointment, call (925) 943-6353.
This segment answers questions about:
How long is the recovery after a tummy tuck?
When can I lift my child?
What are the limitations on lifting after abdominoplasty?
When may I return to work after a tummy tuck?
Will a tummy tuck help low back pain?
Can a mini tummy tuck or liposuction substitute for a tummy tuck?
Do I need to wear special garments after surgery, and if so for how long?
More tummy tuck videos and general information on the abdominal rejuvination can be found on this blog by clicking on the Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) link under Categories (to the left), or click here to get to the abdominoplasty page on my main web site: DrMele.com.
If you are considering a tummy tuck, or any cosmetic plastic surgery, be certain your surgeon is Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. I am certified by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery. You can check my, or any other physicians certification here: The American Board of Plastic Surgery.
or How an Engineering Major Becomes a Plastic Surgeon
The Eiffel Tower (click for a closer view)
I have a short biography on my web site which includes a list of honors and degrees received. The fact that I get the most questions about, however, is my undergraduate major.
Electrical and Computer Engineering is the not a common premed major. I started at the University of California, Davis, with the goal of becoming a doctor, and with a major in biological sciences. Bio Sci is probably the most commonly selected premed path.
I graduated from high school, with advanced placement credits in math, chemistry, physiology and physics. In order to receive these credits, I had to take the more vigorous coursework in college. This put me on the same track as the Engineering majors, and I found out I enjoyed Engineering.
Engineering involves system analysis – looking at a specific situation and determining why it does or doesn’t work. While usually applied to a structure or a machine, this analysis can also be applied to the human body. Fluid dynamics can be applied to the circulatory system. Circuit analysis helps understand the nervous system, and structural analysis provides insight into why things sag.
System analysis, and studying the integration of systems, helped me understand the volumes of facts required for my premed classes then, and still provides a frame work in which to organize the Plastic Surgery decisions which I am called on to make daily.
I think the questions about my Engineering Major arise because Cosmetic Plastic Surgery is seen as a creative and artistic endeavour, while engineering is seen as rote and rigid. In reality, a great plastic surgeon needs to understand both the artistry and the science behind the art. The most beautiful building in the world will not provide much joy if it falls over. Form must be balanced with function.
Great Plastic Surgery, like great Engineering, combines precision with style. The Eiffel Tower is one of the most recognized structures in the world. It is an icon for Paris and all of France because it has style. It is aesthetically pleasing, and it is pleasing to the eye because of the artistry. However, it is standing today, 81 stories and 120 years after the opening of the Exposition Universal, because of the engineering.
Next week I will get back to cosmetic plastic surgery. As always if you have any question, feel free to send them. A contact form is provided on this blog (to the left) and on my main web site.
If you are also a UC Davis alumnus this week end is Homecoming. Will I see you at Pajamarino?
Dr. Joseph A. Mele, MD, FACS of Walnut Creek, California, will be appearing this Thursday on KNTV, NBC Bay Area in San Jose. Host Peggy Pico will interview Dr. Mele on NBC’s Living Well about the Mommy Makeover – Breast Augmentation and Abdominal Rejuvenation.
Living Well with Dr. Mele premiers this Thursday, September 24, 2009, at noon. Encore broadcasts will air next month, also at noon, on Thursdays, October 1, 8 and 15. Hope you enjoy the show.
