Small Procedures, Big Changes: 4 Treatments for a Boost in Self-Esteem

Beauty News, Doctor's Talk December 15, 2023 By Grace Sarkisian

In the dynamic world of cosmetic surgery, the demand for in-office procedures is experiencing a significant upswing, revolutionizing the way individuals approach aesthetic enhancements. Haute Beauty Expert Dr. Munique Maia explores four of the most popular in-office procedures that yield stunning results. Join us as we delve into the world of transformative aesthetic procedures designed for maximum impact with minimal downtime.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Dr. Munique Maia

In-Office Procedures are on the Rise

As a board-certified plastic surgeon, I recognize the substantial influence that small procedures can have on the self-confidence and quality of life of my patients each day. Patients who want to address signs of aging but are not ready to commit to a major surgery can undergo minor procedures safely in my Washington D.C. clinic under local anesthesia. I offer the latest technology and techniques to allow for minimally invasive approaches, and improved pain control options to be able to provide our patients with convenient, effective care.

Whether you want to brighten and rejuvenate tired eyes, reduce the appearance of a “double-chin,” or lift sagging jowls, these results can be achieved with a short procedure and minimal downtime compared to traditional methods under general anesthesia.

4 Most Popular In-Office Procedures with Stunning Results

1. Upper Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Lift)

One of the most common reasons patients come to me is that they are bothered by the excess, sagging skin on their upper eyelids. I have patients in their 20s and 30s who notice sagging skin when applying eyeshadow. This excess skin, although minor, can have an impact on someone’s appearance. An eyelid lift procedure removes the excess skin and can be performed under local anesthesia. After a 30-minute procedure and one to two weeks of downtime, their eyes are completely refreshed and more youthful. 

 

We had our patient Natalie come and talk about her experience getting this in-office procedure done under local anesthesia. “I had no idea it was such an easy procedure,” she said. Natalie underwent an upper blepharoplasty with me after noticing hooded skin above her eyelids, which made her appear more tired and older than she felt.

42-year-old patient 5 weeks post-op mini facelift, mini neck lift, and upper eyelid lift.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Dr. Munique Maia

Many people who experience this excess skin tend to wait until they are in their 50s and 60s because they are worried about the scar. What most people don’t realize is that the scar from an upper blepharoplasty is hidden discreetly in the natural crease of the eye. It fades beautifully and is completely unnoticeable, even when you close your eyes. “I feel like I don’t have a scar,” Natalie said, “it’s just one of those things that no one knows, you just look more awake.”

You can see more upper eyelid results from my patients here.

39-year-old patient before and after Upper Blepharoplasty. Do you notice the scar?

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Dr. Munique Maia

2. Double-Chin Liposuction

Double-chin liposuction, also known as neck or submental liposuction, is rising in demand at our Tysons Corner Clinic. The “double-chin” is a point of insecurity for many patients who notice their lack of jawline definition. With the rise of telework and video conference meetings, an abundance of individuals are searching for a solution now more than ever. Patients are looking for a quick and easy way to address the excess deposit of fat under the chin that seems resistant to diet and exercise. This fat deposit, for many, is hereditary.

30-year-old patient before and after neck liposuction with Dr. Maia.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Dr. Munique Maia

Submental liposuction is a quick procedure, typically completed in under 30 minutes. The patient is injected with numbing under the chin, a small incision is made, and a thin cannula is inserted to remove fat. On some occasions, I will make a small incision behind each earlobe if the patient has excess fat along the sides of the neck. This procedure is perfect for creating a smooth neck contour and a sharper-looking jawline; it is ideal for people who do not have excess skin. See before and after images of my neck liposuction patients here.

41-year-old before and 3 weeks after neck liposuction.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Dr. Munique Maia

3. Mini Facelift

Patients in their late 30s through early 50s are coming to me for a “weekend” facelift. This mini facelift targets early signs of aging, offering significant results with less downtime than a traditional facelift. For patients who are looking to lift a minimal amount of excess skin and sculpt their jawline, the mini facelift is the perfect procedure for them.

46-year-old patient before and after two weeks after a mini facelift and mini neck lift.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Dr. Munique Maia

I usually pair the mini facelift with a more comprehensive facial rejuvenation approach, custom-tailored to the concerns that arise during your one-on-one consultation with me.

For example, a 62-year-old patient came to me with volume loss, sagging jowls, and skin around the neck. While she is a candidate for a full facial rejuvenation, she opted for a mini facelift with a mini neck lift, facial fat grafting, nanofat grafting under the eyes, and Morpheus8 microneedling for enhanced rejuvenation results. These procedures were all performed under local anesthesia, with 1-2 weeks downtime. The pictures of her outcome speak for themselves.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Dr. Munique Maia

62-year-old before and after a mini facelift, mini neck lift, facial fat grafting, nanofat grafting, and Morpheus8.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Dr. Munique Maia

See more before and after images of my mini facelift patients here.

4. Labiaplasty

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Dr. Munique Maia

Moving beyond the face, a procedure gaining popularity is labiaplasty, supported by reports from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

While this procedure is a bit taboo, it’s important to address the benefits. Patients who come to me opting for labiaplasty often express concerns about both appearance and functionality. For many, the excess skin of the labia minora bothers them during intercourse or it’s irritated when they wear tight clothing, such as yoga pants.

Under local anesthesia, this procedure is designed to diminish and reshape the labia minora—the skin of the inner lips—offering both physical and psychological relief. You can see before and after images of labiaplasty patients on our website. This small procedure, with minimal downtime and significant impact, represents the epitome of self-care, empowering individuals to take control and make positive changes in their lives.

About Dr. Maia

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Dr. Munique Maia

Dr. Maia is an award-winning, board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in cosmetic surgery of the face, eyes, nose, breast, and body. She has trained with leaders in plastic surgery, like facial plastic surgeon expert Dr. Jacono. She is a highly respected plastic surgeon in the Metropolitan Washington DC area, Chevy Chase, and Northern Virginia. Dr. Maia provides a full range of services, fulfilling your aesthetic needs, no matter what stage in life you are in. To schedule a consultation with her, call or text (703)-574-4500.

  • Board-certified Harvard fellowship-trained plastic surgeon
  • 15 Years of Experience
  • Meticulous attention to detail and incredible results
  • Minimal scarring and minimal downtime
  • Friendly environment and all-female staff

For more information, visit Dr. Brian A. Levine's social media:

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