JANCEN Cosmetic Surgery , Skin & Varicose Vein Treatment Center, Philippines

Listed here are answers to the most common questions regarding our services.
For more information or further queries, contact us.

What is the purpose of Cosmetic Surgery?

      As a result of the increasing recognition by physicians of the importance of emotional and social favors in health care, cosmetic surgery has acquired a new and unique role in medicine during the past few decades. Originally, its essential purpose was to repair disfigurations caused by war, accidents, or birth defects. But while that is still a significant function, cosmetic surgery is now directed primarily toward enhancing the quality of a patient's life. It employs advanced surgical techniques to correct undesirable physical attributes that become obstacles to social acceptance and the self-confidence necessary for healthy and productive relationships.

      Throughout history, people have sought ways to disguise imperfections in their features and signs of advancing age, but until recently, little could be done to improve upon what nature provided or stall the effects of time. An outsized nose, like the poet Cyrano de Bergerac's, had to be endured with courage. For lines and wrinkles, a receding or protruding chin, baldness, small or sagging breasts, rolls of fat, or the multitude of other deficiencies that afflict beatuy-conscious mankind, there was no remedy; only disguises with cosmetics, wigs, pads, and corsets.

      Today, more than 1,500,000 people a year in the United States undergo cosmetic surgery to correct these and other problems. Because of the introduction of antibiotics and new anaesthetics since World War II, the operations are relatively safe and involve little pain. Many can be performed in the doctor's office or in a hospital or an outpatient basis at 30 to 60 percent less than the cost that if overnight hospitalization was required.

What can be expected from Cosmetic Surgery?

      Misconceptions about cosmetic surgery can lead to disappointment. While dramatic alterations in appearance do occur, a complete transformation of one's physiognomy is not possible. Tightening of facial skin can make a person look younger, but not necessarily youthful. A surgeon can remodel breasts, flatten a belly, trim hips, raise buttocks, and in general, make the contours of the body more pleasing, but the essential structure formed by the bones and tissues will be the same. Certain kinds of fat can be removed, but the remedy for obesity is dieting and exercise, not surgery.

      Moreover, not everyone can benefit from cosmetic procedures. Some abnormalities are not sufficiently correctable to justify an operation, and the condition of a patient's skin or underlying tissue might make the successful outcome of an operation doubtful. Various health problems preclude surgery.

      Depending on the procedure, the period of convalescence ranges from days to weeks, and full recovery can take much longer. Swelling, bruising, and some discomfort ordinarily occur. The incisions leave scars, as in all surgery, but they are usually hidden and gradually become less noticeable. Although complications are rare, certain procedures involve risks, and the results of surgery are not always as desired.

Who are the best candidates for Cosmetic Surgery?

      Cosmetic Surgery can enhance one's appearance and self-confidence, but it won't necessarily change your looks to match your ideal, or cause other people to treat you differently. Before you decide to have surgery, think carefully about your expectations and discuss them with the surgeon.

      The best candidates for cosmetic surgery are men and women who are physically healthy, psychologically stable, and realistic in their expectations.

What are the risks that come with Cosmetic Surgery?

      When cosmetic surgery is performed by a qualified cosmetic surgeon, complications are infrequent and usually minor. Nevertheless, there is always a possibility of complications, including infections or a reaction to the anesthesia, just like other surgeries. You can reduce your risks by closely following your surgeon's instructions both before and after surgery.

How do one prepare for Cosmetic Surgery?

      Your surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking and taking or avoiding certain vitamins and medications. Carefully following these instructions will help your surgery go more smoothly. While you're making preparations, be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery, and to help you out for a few days, if needed.

Where will the surgery be performed?

      Cosmetic Surgery may be performed in a surgeon's office-based facility, an outpatient surgery center, or a hospital. It's usually done on an outpatient basis; rarely does it require an inpatient stay.

Click here for the list of all the cosmetic procedures that we offer,
including the before and after photos of actual patients.

Or scroll down for the frequently-asked questions on our services.

How is Liposuction done?

      The fatty deposits are suctioned out with a vacuum-type device with a tiny opening, usually 1/2" in length, through which a small tube or "cannula" is inserted. The tube is connected to a high-suction machine and passed back and forth within the fatty tissue so that unwanted fat cells are loosened and suctioned away.

Is tumescent liposuction safe?

      Although there have been reports of complications from liposuction, tumescent liposuction performed on an outpatient basis has an unparalleled record for safety.

Is liposuction painful?

      Tumescent liposuction is performed under local anesthesia, which is supplemented with light to medium sedation. Therefore, the vast majority of patients are comfortable throughout the procedure.

How soon can I return to work?

      Most people can return back to work in 3 to 4 days. Some people with high tolerance in pain can go back to work the next day.

Will the fat return?

      We believe that after puberty, most people will not form new fat cells. Nonetheless, if a person gains weight after liposuction, the existing fat cells will enlarge.

Will I need a tummy tuck after?

      It is very rare that a person will need a tuck after liposuction of the abdomen. The skin usually tightens automatically without additional surgery. In approximately 1,000 patients whose abdomens were treated, maybe 5 to 10 needed tucks.

Will it make me lose weight?

      No, but it frequently works as a catalyst to energize people to lose weight through diet and exercise.

How much is the procedure?

      We usually charge per area basis, so it will depend how many areas need liposuction.

Liposuction - Before and After Photos

How is the Breast Augmentation procedure done?

      It is done by inserting an implant behind each breast. Surgeons are able to increase a woman's bust line by 1 or more bra cup sizes.

What are the locations for the incisions?

      There are 3 main locations for the incision: within the crease below the breast (inframammary), beneath the armpit (axillary), or around the nipple (periareolar). There is also a fourth placement, known as the umbilical or endoscopic placement, that is through the navel or belly button, though this is generally not recommended. The incision location that is right for you will depend on several factors and is really best determined with the help of your doctor.

Where is the surgery performed?

      We have a fully-equipped operating room in our center, which caters to all minor and major cosmetic surgery procedures.

How long does the surgery for breast augmentation last?

      The length of time for surgery can vary based on several factors, including the particular technique used, the type of anesthesia, and the implant placement. However, you can typically expect the surgery to last between 1 to 3 hours.

What type of anesthesia is used?

      The type of anesthesia used is either general or a combination of local anesthesia and sedation.

How long will I need to take off from work?

      Every person's tolerance of pain, discomfort or fatigue varies. Most patients take about 1 week from work. However, some return to work sooner, others later depending on the type of employment and demands at the job.

Can I still breast feed if I have future children?

      Absolutely! Again, the implants are behind the muscle so the milk ducts can still function. If you already had children and breast-fed successfully prior to having implants, you should have no difficulties in breast-feeding with future pregnancies.

Can I continue taking my birth control pills?

      Absolutely. However, you may not take them the morning of your surgery. You may take your contraception when you return to your home after surgery.

What medications should I avoid?

      You should avoid aspirin and ibuprofen-type products. Tylenol is fine. Even if you experience cramping during your menstrual cycle, we know you may lean towards Motrin, however, only take Tylenol products. You will also need to avoid Vitamin E and herbal remedies. Because there is no regulation over these "natural" or "herbal" remedies, any problems with the remedies are not recognized until some misfortune happens. It is always better to be safe.

How long do the implants last? When should I get them replaced?

      The implants may last your lifetime. However, nothing on this planet is indestructible. A number of the implant manufacturers provide a lifetime replacement policy in the event of deflation. This is great news but rarely necessary.

How long is the recovery after breast augmentation?

      While recovery times will vary from patient to patient, most find that they can return to work within a few days after surgery. You'll likely need to avoid strenuous activity for several weeks, and physical contact with the breasts should be avoided for 3 to 4 weeks.

When do the scars fade after surgery?

      It can take anywhere from a few months to a full year or more for the scars to fully fade.

Breast Augmentation - Before and After Photos

How is the Nose Lift procedure done?

      A small opening is made on the middle side of the nose and a prosthesis is inserted.

How long will the procedure take?

      It usually takes 15 minutes for uncomplicated procedure.

How long is the healing?

      It usually takes 3 to 5 days to heal.

Is it painful?

      There is a little discomfort during the infiltration of the anesthesia, after which there will be numbness, and you will never feel anything during the procedure.

How long is the life span of the nose surgery?

      It will be forever, as long as there is no complication.

What is the possible side effect of nose lifting?

      In our practice, we haven't seen any side effects or complications. As long you take care of your nose, you will not encounter any problems.

Is there any medication that will be taken after the procedure?

      Yes, the usual medicine given after surgical procedures.

When shall I be back to your office after the procedure?

      You will be back the next day for dressing; then, 2 to 3 days after for removal of suture; then, 1 week after for follow-up check-up.

How much is the procedure?

      The price of the procedure will depend upon the structure of the nose (either bridge of the nose will be lifted, or trimming of the side of the nose).

Nose Lift - Before and After Photos

Where is the surgery performed?

      Our office features a fully-equipped operating suite dedicated entirely to cater all cosmetic surgery demands.

How long will the procedure last?

      A facelift usually takes 2 to 4 hours or somewhat longer if you're having more than one procedure done.

What type of anesthesia will I have for my facelift?

      Local anesthesia with sedation. An intravenous line is placed and sedative medication is administered gradually, under continuous monitoring of your vital signs. Local anesthetic is injected while you are sedated. Occasionally, facelifts are done under general anesthesia, such as when multiple procedures are being done, or if this is the patient's preference.

How long does it take to recover from facelift surgery?

      There is bruising and swelling for 10 to 14 days. Patients generally return to work 10-14 days.

What can I eat after surgery?

      Start out with a soft diet and drink plenty of fluids. Avoid very hot food or beverages.

Do I need to stop taking any medications prior to surgery?

      Yes, for 2 weeks prior and after surgery, you need to discontinue taking medications that contain Aspirin, Motrin, Ibuprofen or Aleve. Discontinue Vitamin E, herbal medications and diet medications containing Ephedrine. Avoid Garlic in your diet. Tylenol is okay to take for pain. There is no need to discontinue birth control pills.

What position should I sleep in after surgery?

      For the first 4 to 5 days, you should sleep upright about 15 to 20 degrees above horizontal, on your back with your head and shoulders higher than your heart.

When can I take a shower after surgery?

      You can shower 2 to 3 days after surgery.

When can I wear facial lotion or make-up?

      After 7 to 10 days. Do not put make-up or lotion on incisions until they are fully healed.

When can I start exercising?

      Light walking is okay after your first follow-up. No bending or lifting for 6 weeks. You can start running, treadmill, and sit-ups after 4 to 6 weeks.

Face Lift - Before and After Photos

Why do people have eye bags?

      The formation of eyebags has a lot of causes. Usually, this is due to herniation of fats, which is secondary to the weakness of the muscle wall that makes it very prominent.

How long does the surgery take?

      Asian double eyelid blepharoplasty takes about 1 hour of "hands-on" time. Allowing for pre-operative sedation and recovery, the average patient spends just over two hours in our office.

Where is the surgery performed?

      Our office features a fully-equipped operating suite dedicated entirely to cater all cosmetic surgery demands, especially eyelid surgery.

What type of anesthesia is used?

      Local anesthesia with oral or intravenous sedation. General anesthesia is not only unnecessary but may limit the ability of the surgeon to evaluate the result as it develops due to a lack of patient feedback (opening and closing the eyes at certain points along the way).

Will there be any mark or scar left after the procedure?

      Initially, yes, but after a while, you will never notice that there was something done. The scar becomes inconspicuous after 3 to 6 months.

When can I wear my contact lenses?

      You may use it a week after surgery, until healing is completely obtained.

How long is the initial recovery?

      Swelling peaks on the morning after surgery. Bruising reaches its peak on the second day after surgery and is usually mild. Sutures are removed on the fourth or fifth day. Non-strenuous activities may be undertaken beginning the day after surgery, while more vigorous exercise should be delayed for about 10 days. Most bruising are gone by a week, while noticeable swelling will persist for several weeks.

How long does it take until all healing is complete?

      Although one can resume a normal life within a few weeks, it will take longer for the eyelids to heal to their final state.

Is there any possibility that my eyebags will come back?

      It will depend upon your lifestyle - the more stress you have, the faster the aging.

Double Eyelid & Eye Bag Removal - Before and After Photos

What is Hair Transplant?

      Hair transplantation is a surgical procedure in which hair from the back and sides of the scalp is moved to the bald areas.

Who is a good candidate for hair transplants?

      We have determined that the best candidates for hair replacement and hair transplants are those patients who:
        - are in good mental and physical health
        - have realistic expectations
        - are fully aware of the risks, complications, and what's involved
        - are non-smokers
        - have healthy donor sites

How long will the transplanted hair last?

      Transplanted hair should grow normally in the recipient area as long as it would in the donor site from which it was taken.

Do all transplanted hair grafts grow?

      In almost all cases, the vast majority of transplanted grafts should yield growing hair. Pre- and post-operative instructions are provided to minimize the risk of graft injury and subsequent compromised growth. It is important to realize that the number of hairs growing from each graft will vary, depending on the density of the hair at the donor site and on the size of the graft selected.

Are hair replacement procedures painful?

      Micro-follicular unit transplantation is generally performed under local anesthesia, so pain during surgery is rare. After surgery, most patients experience mild discomfort, which can usually be alleviated with over-the-counter medication.

How is this surgical hair restoration procedure performed?

      Hair Transplantation is a minor office procedure, which requires only local anesthetic. There is initially some discomfort associated with the administration of the anesthesia, but this is of very short duration. We have developed techniques to reduce this discomfort, and most patients tolerate this brief period very well.

      The donor area (the back or sides of the scalp) as well as the recipient area (the bald or thinning area) are made numb with the local anesthetic. Up until several years ago, round grafts (plugs) were always used throughout the hair transplant process. The desired number of round grafts were removed from the donor area and then transferred to the bald area. Today these larger grafts have been mostly replaced by smaller grafts (follicular units, micro, mini or slit grafts), since these grafts produce a much more natural transition from thinning or baldness to increased hair growth. In most cases, where very small grafts are used, this surgery can be accomplished almost undetectably. Specific recommendations are discussed at a personal consultation.

      When smaller grafts are to be transplanted, the following technique is used:

The hair to be transplanted is trimmed close to the scalp, and the desired amount of donor skin and hair are then removed. This donor site is then sutured closed, generally resulting in a fine scar which is only detectable on close inspection. The donor hair-bearing skin is then divided into very small pieces, which contain 1 to 3 hair strands. These grafts are then rapidly inserted into small openings made in the recipient area

How long does it take for transplanted hair to grow?

      The transplanted hair generally sheds within the first 2 to 3 weeks after the procedure and new hair begins to grow approximately 2 to 4 months later. The hair then grows at the normal rate of 1/2 inch each month. The transition from thinning or baldness to greater fullness of hair is very gradual.

How long after a hair transplant would I be able to go back to work?

      Depending on the type of procedure you have done and the type of work you do, it is often possible to go back to work in 1 or 2 days.

What can I expect during my recovery period?

      Following your surgery, you may experience soreness, swelling, and occasional headaches, but most side effects subside after a few days. You will need to leave the treated area bandaged overnight; scabs will form but should disappear within days. In addition, you will be instructed in shampoo techniques to begin the very next day after the procedure. You may then resume all light day-to-day activities. If you must, return for a checkup after your hair replacement or hair transplant procedure.

      After the surgery, some of the grafted hairs may fall out, but they will start growing back after 3 months. After 3 full months, you may repeat the procedure to add even more hair to the treated areas.

Hair Transplant - Before and After Photos

Can all kinds of varicose veins be treated?

      Yes, large veins, spider veins and facial capillaries can all be safely treated.

How many treatments will I need?

      Depending on the extent of the damage, anywhere from 2 to 10 treatments may be required.

How many injections will I be given each visit?

      The number of injections will vary. It's not the number of injections that determines the effectiveness of the treatment, but the type of sclerosing agent used, its dosage and the site of the injections.

Does the treatment involve risks?

      All medical treatments entail a certain degree of risk. This will be discussed during your first visit. Fortunately, when Sclerotherapy is administered by physicians with the appropriate training and experience, serious compilations rarely arise.

What about hospitalizations?

      None is required. The treatments are simple. They are performed in the doctor's office and usually take about 15 minutes.

Is the treatment painful?

      Pain may sometimes be induced by bruising, but is usually minimal.

Will I have to rest in bed after each treatment?

      No. You will be able to return to your normal activities right after you leave the surgeon's office.

What about exercise after treatment?

      You may walk, swim or cycle as much as you please.

What sort of tests are required as part of the treatment?

      A thorough, non-invasive examination of the deep and superficial venous systems will have to handle the blood flow diverted from the treated vein. These diagnostic tests can be one in the office for your convenience.

Will I have to return to the surgeon's office after my treatment program is completed?

      We suggest you come in for a follow-up visit once or twice a year so that we can check for any varicose or spider veins.

What can I do to prevent varicose and spider veins after treatment?

      Wear comfortable shoes, preferably with 1- to 2-inch heels. Avoid wearing girdles and ordinary knee-high stockings or socks. Exercise.

Will I have to leave the surgeon's office with my leg bandaged?

      As a rule, no. But in special cases, yes. However, small cotton balls will be taped to your leg at the sites of the injection and should be removed about two (2) hours after the treatment.

Should I wear support hose after the treatment?

      We suggest them for anyone suffering from venous congestion. They should definitely be worn whenever you have to stand for a long period of time.

What can I do to strengthen my capillaries and reduce bruising?

      Special vitamins can be prescribed.

Varicose Vein Treatment - Before and After Photos

What are some of the conditions that can be treated by Chemical Peel?

      Chemical peel, although initially publicized as mainly a cosmetic procedure, is used therapeutically as well. Cosmetic indications for the use of chemical peel include wrinkles caused by aging, sun damage, hereditary factors, superficial acne scarring, and irregular pigmentation of the skin, including melasma, freckles or age spots. Therapeutic indications for this type of surgery are precancerous conditions such as keratosis (thick, rough, reddish growths).

What can be expected after the procedure?

      The procedure lasts from 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the type of chemical peel you're having - light or deep peel. A light peel may take 20 minutes while a deep peel will take longer. For a day or 2 following the procedure, the skin will feel as though it has been severely burned or sun-burned, but medication can alleviate much of the discomfort. Swelling of the affected area is to be expected for several days following the procedure. Moving around rather than lying in bed is recommended to keep swelling at a minimum. Within a few days after the procedure, the healing process begins as the affected areas start to crust. Direct or reflected sunlight should be avoided for several months after the treatment.

How much improvement can be expected following the procedure?

      The amount of improvement is individual and depends on the initial condition of the patient's skin. Maximum improvement of damaged skin and wrinkling ranges from 75 to 85%, and although 100% improvement is not possible, most patients view the results as dramatic. Some patients, depending upon the condition of their skin, may require additional treatments to achieve desired results.

What are the risks involved?

      Each year, thousands of chemical peel procedures are performed successfully. Although complications are rare, possible risks should be thoroughly discussed with the physician prior to surgery.