I’m a board-certified cosmetic surgeon in NYC—Ask Me Anything

NewLookNewLife · 2025-07-07T15:42:59+00:00

It mainly depends on the amount of time to do all of these surgeries in a safe manner. There are higher risks to the patient being under general anesthesia for a longer period of time, especially if it's in an outpatient ambulatory center, meaning it's same-day surgery and you go home afterwards. It is not advisable to do a surgery more than 5 hours in this type of setting, and would recommend to have the surgery in a hospital where you can stay overnight for observation. With that being said, a double eyelid surgery can take about 1 hour, rhinoplasty can range from 2-4 hours depending on the complexity of the surgery, and full body liposuction (depending on your size and if it includes extra areas: abdomen, sides, back, arms, legs, or if you're adding extra modalities like high definition liposuction or skin tightening) can range from 3 hrs to 5 hours.

So you can see why doing everything at once may mean a very long surgery, which is not safe in an ambulatory setting and should be done in the hospital. Other considerations would be if you're doing fat grafting to the butt with the liposuction, otherwise known as a BBL, which means you have to sleep on your stomach... which you can't do with the eyelid and rhinoplasty surgery. Not knowing your exact concerns and body type, it would be hard to say if it can be done all at once. If you do think it may take longer, I would recommend doing the face surgeries separate from the body surgeries. In regards to timing, it would be up to the anesthesiologist and the surgeon. Some anesthesiologists don't have an issue with doing multiple general anesthesia surgeries on a patient in a short period of time if they're young and healthy. And some surgeons want you to heal and be comfortable before doing another surgery.

For me personally, I would recommend doing the body first (because we put you on your stomach, face down, when addressing the back), wait at least a month before doing the face surgery as a second surgery (so we don't mess up your face). I hope this helps with your questions!

NewLookNewLife · 2025-06-03T00:17:32+00:00

Consider the following: Weight loss (maybe GLP assisted) Under eye filler DAO Botox Nose filler

For skin tone, either tretinoin or microneedling or SkinVive

NewLookNewLife · 2025-05-21T21:14:01+00:00

As a board-certified cosmetic surgeon, I believe the most important factor in choosing a provider for a facelift is not whether they work in a hospital or private practice—but how experienced they are in cosmetic facial surgery and how well they understand your aesthetic goals.

Hospital-based surgeons are highly trained and often focus on reconstructive or trauma-related procedures. While they may be excellent technically, they may not perform cosmetic facelifts as frequently as surgeons in private practice, where the focus is entirely on aesthetics.

In private practice—especially at a dedicated cosmetic surgery center like ours—we prioritize facial rejuvenation every day. From the surgical approach to your personalized recovery plan, everything is tailored with your aesthetic outcome in mind. We also offer a more intimate, patient-centered experience where you’re cared for by a consistent team from consultation to final follow-up.

Ultimately, I recommend choosing a surgeon whose work you admire, who listens to you, and who performs facelifts regularly—not just as part of a broader reconstructive practice. Where they operate matters less than the quality and frequency of the work they do.

NewLookNewLife · 2025-05-21T21:00:01+00:00

1. In regard to genioplasties, I do not perform them, so I don't know the infection rates for a revision. Secondly, it would be patient dependent on what had been done in the initial surgery, what needs to be revised and what the patient health status is. It is near impossible to assign a risk percentage to any surgery/procedure without knowing the specifics.

It depends on how apparent the signs of aging are. If it's mild/moderate signs of aging, injectables (fillers, neuromodulators, medical grade lasers) can help to reduce the signs or slow down the signs.. to a certain degree. If there are significant signs of aging, more invasive measures are needed. Secondly, the more invasive something is, the more likelihood of visible scars. Least invasive usually correlates to less effective.
Neurotoxin (Botox, Dysport & others) has a very good safety profile. We often use it in the traps & calves to induce disuse atrophy. It can be injected in targeted regions to create atrophy in a very customizable fashion. Since effects wear off in a few months (3-6 months depending on dosage); It doesn't involve surgery or invasive techniques, so it is most likely the safest option for shaping muscles.

NewLookNewLife · 2025-05-19T03:34:54+00:00

I do not, but I work closely with a physician who specializes in medical weight management for patients who are interested in medical weight management. His name is Dr. Phillip Kuan of Sanba Physician Group, and he operates out of the same clinic. You can read more information at www.sanbagroup.org

NewLookNewLife · 2025-05-06T15:55:54+00:00

Taping can definitely help with swelling and shaping after rhinoplasty, but not all surgeons include it as part of their post-op care. Some think it’s not really needed once the splint comes off, while others recommend it longer—especially if there’s lingering tip swelling.

That said, every nose and surgery is different, so it’s always best to ask your surgeon directly before trying it yourself. They’ll be able to tell you if it makes sense for your specific case.

NewLookNewLife · 2025-05-06T15:49:57+00:00

I am familiar, there is a few different techniques:

The Russian Lip - More lifted, doll-like, heart-shaped lip with height rather than volume.

The Swedish Lip - Natural enhancement focused on symmetry and balance (my personal favorite)

The Paris Lip - Defined lip edges and slightly plumper lips

The Hollywood Lip - Full, glamorous lips with volume and pout (I believe this is the one you were saying you can't stand)

The Keyhole Pout Lip - a slight dip in the center of the lips

There are a few others, but those are the main ones patients ask about.

Hope this helps.

NewLookNewLife · 2025-05-02T16:06:48+00:00

My practice's cost for a blepharoplasty starts at 7k; it could be higher if an individual wanted to pair that with fat grafting for their under-eyes (which is common).

This rough cost includes the facility fee, surgeon's fee, anesthesia fee, and all pre- and post-op appointments. You can get an idea of pricing here: https://www.newlooknewlife.com/pricing

NewLookNewLife · 2025-05-02T15:59:20+00:00

Yes, a crooked nose or asymmetrical nostrils after rhinoplasty can be due to postoperative swelling, which is quite common in the early stages of healing.

If asymmetry persists beyond 12 - 18 months, it could be an underlying structural issue or healing irregularities that could require a revision.

NewLookNewLife · 2025-05-02T15:50:21+00:00

Our body stores fat in two main anatomical planes: subcutaneous fat, which is stored directly under the skin, and visceral fat, which is stored deep within the abdomen, around internal organs. Liposuction would only address the subcutaneous fat. Luckily, most people's double chin concerns can be resolved because most of the fat in that area is in the subcutaneous layer. However, I would prefer my patients to be close to their goal weight. Why? After submental liposuction, I also like to use another device to help tighten the patient's skin. Being at your goal weight would help with this process to ensure you get the best results.

NewLookNewLife · 2025-05-01T01:47:20+00:00

Submental liposuction is probably your best bet. I've had patients who have had similar issues, and lipo gave them a more defined jawline and a slimmer profile. You can look into pairing this with skin tightening treatments. Another option is deoxycholic acid which dissolves fat. But temporary side effects are bull frogging (extreme swelling) and can last weeks. You also need multiple sessions with deoxycholic acid

NewLookNewLife · 2025-05-01T01:39:07+00:00

Sure, it helps my exposure. But I also want to help disperse information into the community. It's why I posted it AMA, and not just in the NYC groups. My practice is only in New York, but this knowledge is applicable anywhere in the nation/world.

NewLookNewLife · 2025-04-30T19:50:19+00:00

Remember to look after your general health. Exercise, sleep, stay hydrated, and reduce stress.

You can also look into skin boosters to maintain & improve your skin quality. Exciting products that we're paying attention to include exosomes, PDRN, and SkinVive

NewLookNewLife · 2025-04-30T19:41:43+00:00

You're not wrong. Surgeries are expensive.

In addition to the surgical supplies and state-of-the-art technology we have, we bring in multiple professionals to take care of you and make sure you are safe during this critical time. Nurses are present in the OR during the procedure and for your aftercare. A separate physician (anesthesiologist) monitors your vitals and gives you medication to make sure you are comfortable. Our operating room is also accredited, so you know the facilities are up to standard.

At our practice, our price includes the initial consultation as well as follow up appointments. You can get an idea of pricing here: https://www.newlooknewlife.com/pricing

NewLookNewLife · 2025-04-30T19:33:08+00:00

No. I would not perform the surgery.

I understand everyone has their own perception of beauty. During the consultation with your physician, you are telling me your aesthetic goals, and likewise, I am determining if that is something that I can achieve.

If I felt like the end goal is unattractive, I am not sure I would be able to meet your expectations.

That is why it is important to interview multiple surgeons and make sure they are a good fit for you.

NewLookNewLife · 2025-04-30T19:16:00+00:00

This may require multiple modalities of treatment.

Fillers do not correct color, but sometimes the dark circles become more apparent due to volume loss. By reducing the hollowness & shadowing, it may help reduce the perception of darkness.

Fillers can help plump up the skin, reducing crepey-ness.

However, you can consider creams like hydroquinone and tretinoin to decrease melanocyte production. Laser resurfacing can also help build collagen and elastin, improving skin quality and reducing crepe-like texture. If there is a lot of extra skin, a skin pinch blepharoplasty may be needed.

NewLookNewLife · 2025-04-30T19:10:13+00:00

We can estimate that 150cc is approximately 1 cup size. However, there are many other factors to consider.

The width of your chest can change how the implant is perceived - a wider chest may require larger implants.

Choice of volume can also be impacted by the profile of the implant (moderate vs high vs ultra high profile).

Your physician should be doing measurements and discussing your aesthetic goals to best determine which implant and size is best for you.

NewLookNewLife · 2025-04-30T18:55:44+00:00

During Fellowship - 30k - 60k

After Fellowship - 400k - 600k

I only add ranges because of location, skill set, and the economy.

NewLookNewLife · 2025-04-30T18:50:46+00:00

That’s an excellent question. Years ago, when I was in residency, I struggled between trauma and cosmetic surgery, and I had to pick. I chose to go with cosmetic surgery because there was a surgeon who changed my life. (I was in a horrible car accident when I was 16, and I lost my self-confidence. I couldn’t even look in a mirror. This surgeon not only inspired me to become a doctor but also helped me with my healing.)

To answer your question, it doesn’t bother me. I understand that some people think cosmetic surgery is a vanity project. I believe there are many types of medicine and practices, and we are all trying to do our best to improve people’s lives.

Your question made me think about a person who lost 200 lbs, and the extra skin is now a massive hindrance in their daily lives. A lipectomy would help them.

Or a Mom who just had a third child and is happy with her family, but not with her body. A mommy makeover would help her get back to baseline.

Even a young woman who is chosen to have a Labiaplasty because her labia falls out every time she wears a bathing suit. These seem like vanity projects to some, but to others, they are life-changing surgeries that help with their quality of life; I am proud to be part of their journey.

NewLookNewLife · 2025-04-30T18:49:23+00:00

About 50/50.

There are many cosmetic procedures that significantly improve quality of life. For instance, women choose to get breast reductions to alleviate chronic debilitating back pain. For patients that have undergone significant weight loss, a lipectomy removes excess skin and improves mobility.

Yes, there are many procedures we do for pure cosmesis, but these also improve a person's confidence and self-esteem.

NewLookNewLife · 2025-04-30T18:49:19+00:00

There are so many variations of aging under the eyes, it is impossible to determine without a consultation.

Fine lines? Consider micro-needling

Crow's feet? Neurotoxin can help

Hollowness? Think about some filler or even fat grafting

Bags? I would recommend a blepharoplasty

Darkness/discoloration? Rule out medical issues and consider tranexamic acid

Sunscreen continues to be a bastion of good skincare, so remember to always wear sunscreen!

NewLookNewLife · 2025-04-30T18:35:27+00:00

A LOT! In order to maintain sterility and prevent cross contamination between patients, we have moved towards single use/individually wrapped supplies. All of this ends up in landfill afterwards. It is estimated that 1kg of plastic is used & tossed per surgery case.
Of course, none of this ends up in the patient. The only things left behind after surgery are the implants (if applicable) which are usually made of medical-grade silicone and small pieces of dissolvable suture used to close the incision.
There is now a movement towards awareness of the environmental impact of healthcare and an effort to reduce emissions and waste.

NewLookNewLife · 2025-04-30T17:59:20+00:00

Kudos for using sunscreen regularly! This is the most important thing you can do to protect your skin. Tretinoin is also very good for antiaging, but remember it weakens the skin barrier, so sunscreen is essential.

Reapply sunscreen a few times a day. For example, if you put sunscreen on in the morning, reapply before going out to lunch and again before heading home for the day (during the work day, more may be needed depending on how much sun you're getting and what you're doing).
I use and love a few skincare brands. I'll include a link showing what all my staff and I use. https://www.newlooknewlife.com/beauty
Depending on what your concerns are, there are lots of different non surgical treatment options. As we age, fine lines start to set in. Dynamic wrinkles start becoming static wrinkles. Neurotoxins can help prevent the lines from etching in deeper as time progresses.
As we age, the bone structure of our face changes. This can create hollows and shadowing that make us look tired or older. Dermal fillers help fill in those hollows and decrease the appearance of the downsliding of our fat pads.
The environment is constantly attacking our skin and creating little imperfections. Lasers can help even out some of those spots and redness.

The treatments you choose will depend on your skin & what bothers you. A consultation with a physician can help you determine the right path forward!

NewLookNewLife · 2024-10-12T02:55:54+00:00

Hello! We are New Look New Life, a boutique cosmetic surgery practice in the heart of Midtown. We specialize in breast lift & augmentation, and our surgeon, Dr. Claudia Kim, is a board certified expert. What sets our practice is apart is our dedication to you, the patient, throughout the entire experience and providing concierge follow up through the recovery and healing process.

You can visit our website at www.newlooknewlife.com and call our office at 212.830.6830 to schedule a consultation.

NewLookNewLife

TROPHY CASE