Frequently Asked Questions | Dr. Ali Sajjadian
Welcome to the practice of Dr. Ali Sajjadian in Newport Beach, California. Choosing plastic surgery is a significant decision, and Dr. Sajjadian is committed to helping you feel confident, informed, and prepared before you move forward. Whether you’re considering rhinoplasty (including revision, ethnic, or ultrasonic techniques), a facelift, tummy tuck, liposuction, a mommy makeover, breast augmentation, or a breast lift, these FAQs bring common questions into one easy-to-navigate resource for patients across Orange County.
If you don’t find the answer you’re looking for, call (949) 515-0550 or send us a message.
Ali Sajjadian, MD FAQs
Dr. Ali Sajjadian’s office is located at 496 Old Newport Blvd. #3, Newport Beach, CA 92663.
Dr. Ali Sajjadian is a triple board-certified plastic surgeon known for a detail-driven approach and a strong focus on natural-looking outcomes, especially in rhinoplasty and facial aesthetics.
Dr. Sajjadian specializes in rhinoplasty (including revision, ethnic, and ultrasonic techniques), facelift surgery, tummy tuck, liposuction, mommy makeover, breast augmentation, and breast lift procedures.
Most procedures offered are cosmetic and are typically paid for out of pocket. If your concerns include a functional component, our team can explain what documentation may be helpful for your personal records.
Call (949) 515-0550 or send us a message to schedule your consultation.
Virtual consultation options may be available for select patients and early planning. Our team will guide you on what information or photos may be necessary.
Financing and payment options may be available depending on your plan. Our team can review details during scheduling so that you can plan around your timeline.
We welcome patients from Newport Beach and surrounding Orange County communities, including Huntington Beach, Irvine, Anaheim, Santa Ana, and nearby areas.
Your consultation is designed to be thorough and personal. Dr. Sajjadian will discuss your goals, review your medical history, evaluate your anatomy, and recommend an approach based on what will be safest and most predictable.
Patients often value a plan-first approach that emphasizes clear communication, careful technique, and results designed to look refined and natural rather than overdone.
Rhinoplasty FAQs
Rhinoplasty reshapes the nose to improve facial balance, profile harmony, and, in some cases, breathing function. Planning is individualized so that changes look like they belong on your face.
Yes. If nasal structure contributes to obstruction or airflow issues, functional correction can be planned alongside cosmetic refinement when appropriate.
Rhinoplasty can address a dorsal hump, bridge irregularities, asymmetry, tip shape concerns, nostril width, and a crooked appearance. It can also refine the nose to better match your facial proportions.
Open rhinoplasty uses a small incision under the nose for greater visibility and structural precision. Closed rhinoplasty places incisions inside the nostrils with no external scar, and the best approach depends on what needs to be addressed.
Natural results come from proportion, structural support, and avoiding overly aggressive reduction. The goal is refinement that looks balanced from every angle, not an “operated” look.
Many patients plan about 7 to 10 days away from work or public-facing activities, depending on bruising and swelling. Refinement continues for months as swelling gradually resolves, especially at the tip.
Bruising varies by patient and by whether nasal bone work is needed. Some patients have minimal bruising, while others experience more noticeable bruising that improves over the first couple of weeks.
Light walking is typically fine early on, but strenuous exercise and contact risk must wait until you are cleared by Dr. Sajjadian. Protecting the nose during early healing is key to a smooth long-term result.
Good candidates are in good overall health, have realistic expectations, and have a clear sense of what they want to improve. A consultation confirms what changes are achievable while maintaining support and harmony.
Preparation helps keep your recovery calm and consistent:
- Arrange a driver and first-night support
- Set up a comfortable area and head elevation for sleep and rest
- Plan easy meals, hydration, and a lighter schedule
- Avoid pressure or impact to the nose and follow aftercare instructions closely
When these basics are planned ahead of time, swelling is easier to manage, and healing tends to feel more predictable.
Revision Rhinoplasty FAQs
Revision rhinoplasty is corrective nose surgery performed after a prior rhinoplasty to address shape concerns, breathing problems, structural issues, or a combination.
Consider revision if you have persistent dissatisfaction after healing is complete, ongoing breathing difficulty, visible irregularities, or a structural issue that affects stability or symmetry.
Revision cases are often more complex because scar tissue and prior structural changes can limit options. Planning focuses on restoring support and improving predictability.
In many cases, it is best to wait until swelling has fully stabilized and tissues have matured before making final revision decisions. Your consultation with Dr. Sajjadian will clarify whether evaluation sooner is appropriate for your specific concern.
Sometimes. If detailed structural rebuilding or visibility is needed, an open approach may be recommended to improve accuracy and control.
Some revision cases require additional support to rebuild nasal shape and maintain airflow. Whether grafting is necessary depends on your anatomy and what was changed previously.
Yes. If airway support has been compromised or if prior changes created obstruction, revision planning can prioritize function as well as aesthetics.
It can be. Some patients experience more swelling or a longer refinement period because tissues have been operated on before.
Revision goals focus on meaningful improvement and balance rather than perfection. Dr. Sajjadian will explain what is structurally possible and what tradeoffs may be involved.
Prior operative records, implant or graft details if available, and a clear list of your top concerns can help planning feel more efficient and realistic.
Being organized helps protect results and reduce stress:
- Plan a quiet first week with limited obligations
- Arrange transportation and early support at home
- Avoid nicotine and follow medication guidance closely
- Be prepared for a longer refinement timeline than primary surgery
These steps support better healing conditions so that swelling resolves more predictably over time.
Ethnic Rhinoplasty FAQs
Ethnic rhinoplasty is rhinoplasty planned to enhance the nose while preserving the patient’s ethnic identity and facial character. The goal is refinement that still looks authentically like you.
Ethnic rhinoplasty often involves respecting cultural beauty standards, different skin thickness, cartilage strength, and structural priorities. Planning may focus more on support and balanced projection to maintain natural harmony.
Yes, but narrowing must be balanced with facial proportions and structural support. The safest plan improves definition without creating an overly narrow or pinched appearance.
The goal is not to erase features but to respect your cultural heritage and beauty standards. Dr. Sajjadian focuses on refinement and balance while keeping the nose consistent with your overall facial structure.
Yes, but thick skin can affect how much definition is visible early on and may require a longer refinement timeline. Structural support and realistic expectations are key.
Yes. If breathing concerns are present, Dr. Sajjadian will incorporate functional corrections into your unique plan when appropriate.
Patients often want improved symmetry, a smoother bridge, refined tip shape, better profile balance, and controlled nostril width while preserving cultural and familial features.
Early downtime is often similar to other rhinoplasty cases, but refinement can take longer depending on skin thickness and swelling patterns.
A natural look comes from proportion, careful structural support, and avoiding excessive reduction. The goal is a nose that fits your face, not a one-style-fits-all result.
Sometimes. If profile harmony is your goal, Dr. Sajjadian may discuss whether additional procedures could improve overall balance.
Clear priorities help build a plan that stays true to you:
- Bring examples of what you like and what you want to avoid
- Identify your top one or two concerns (tip, bridge, nostrils, symmetry)
- Discuss any breathing issues or prior nasal injuries
- Plan recovery time with a realistic expectation for gradual refinement
When goals are clearly defined, it becomes easier to preserve identity while achieving meaningful improvement.
Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty (Piezo) FAQs
Ultrasonic rhinoplasty uses an ultrasonic device to sculpt and reshape nasal bones with more control than traditional tools. It is designed to support precision while minimizing trauma to surrounding tissues.
Traditional techniques may rely on chisels and hammers, while piezo technology uses focused ultrasonic energy for more controlled bone shaping. This can be especially helpful when accuracy matters for symmetry and smoothness.
It can. Because the approach is designed to minimize trauma to surrounding tissues, many patients experience less bruising and swelling compared with more forceful bone work.
Not always. Whether piezo is used depends on your anatomy and whether bone reshaping is part of your plan.
It can support refined shaping of the nasal bones, smoothing irregularities, improving symmetry, and creating a more naturally refined bridge contour.
Yes. The device offers exceptional control, which can help create more accurate sculpting and smoother transitions in bone contour.
Many patients find recovery more comfortable, especially if bruising is reduced. You should still plan for swelling and gradual refinement as with any rhinoplasty.
Many rhinoplasty plans include a splint during early healing. Your specific plan will be reviewed during consultation.
Many patients plan about 7 to 10 days depending on swelling and your comfort being seen in public. Your timeline depends on the extent of work performed.
You will see improvements early, but nasal refinement continues for months as swelling resolves. Tip definition often takes the longest to fully settle.
A simple plan helps protect healing structures:
- Plan time away from major events during early swelling
- Keep head elevation consistent and avoid nasal pressure
- Follow activity restrictions to reduce swelling and protect the nose
- Attend follow-ups so healing and symmetry can be monitored
When aftercare is consistent, refinement tends to look smoother and more predictable as swelling fades.
Facelift FAQs
A facelift lifts and repositions facial tissues to improve sagging, jowls, and a softened jawline. The goal is to look refreshed and rested rather than tight or overpulled.
Many patients plan about 2 weeks before returning to work if they prefer others not notice surgery. Bruising and swelling continue improving, with further refinement over the weeks that follow.
Incisions are typically placed around the ears and hairline contours so that scars can be well-camouflaged as they heal. Proper scar care and sun protection help scars mature more favorably.
Facelift results are long-lasting, though aging continues. Most patients appreciate that they still look like themselves, just more supported and refreshed for years.
Structural lifting repositions deeper tissues, while skin tightening alone can create tension that looks less natural. A modern plan prioritizes support and contour rather than pulling the skin.
A facelift is designed to improve jowls and laxity-related folds and can soften deeper creases. Very fine etched lines may still benefit from skin-focused treatments.
Yes. Many patients combine a facelift with eyelid surgery, brow work, or other refinements when multiple areas contribute to an aged appearance and when it is safe to combine.
Many patients feel comfortable being out in public sooner than returning to work, especially with strategic styling and makeup. Most visible bruising and swelling improved significantly over the first couple of weeks.
Early incision care may include keeping incision sites dry initially and following cleansing and ointment guidance as directed. Your team will provide clear, step-by-step instructions.
There is no single age cut-off. Candidacy depends on health, anatomy, and goals. Many patients can return to normal activities within 2 to 3 weeks, with steady improvement as swelling settles.
Preparation helps your first two weeks feel calmer:
- Plan time off work and avoid major events early on
- Set up head elevation and a comfortable rest space
- Keep meals, hydration, and essentials within easy reach
- Follow medication guidance and attend follow-up appointments
When recovery is planned realistically, swelling tends to resolve more predictably and results look refined without feeling rushed.
Tummy Tuck FAQs
A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) removes excess abdominal skin and can tighten the abdominal wall when muscle separation is present. The goal is a flatter abdomen and a more defined waistline.
A tummy tuck addresses loose skin and stretched abdominal support that can remain after pregnancy or significant weight change, even with consistent fitness habits.
Drains may be placed as needed to help manage fluid during early healing. Dr. Sajjadian and your team will teach you how to care for drains if they are part of your plan.
Many patients wear compression garments to help manage swelling and support the contour as tissues heal and settle.
The first week is often the most challenging due to swelling, tightness, and mobility limits. Most patients notice gradual improvement after the early phase as the body adjusts.
Sleeping in a reclined position is often recommended to reduce tension on incisions and support comfort. Your exact timeline depends on the extent of correction performed.
Yes. A tummy tuck can remove excess skin and tighten the abdomen after weight loss, helping restore a smoother, tighter abdominal contour.
Scar placement is typically planned low on the abdomen, so it can be concealed by underwear and swimwear. Your scar length depends on anatomy and how much skin must be removed.
Many patients plan around 2 weeks for desk work, while physical jobs often require longer. Your timeline depends on the extent of muscle repair and your job’s demands.
Yes. Liposuction can be added to refine areas like the waist or flanks when appropriate, helping create a smoother overall contour.
A prepared recovery setup makes the first 2 weeks easier:
- Arrange help for lifting, childcare, errands, and meals
- Set up a clean, comfortable rest space with elevation and easy access to essentials
- Place commonly used items at counter height to reduce bending and reaching
- Plan a light schedule so you can rest and walk consistently
When preparation is done ahead of time, it’s easier to follow restrictions and protect your long-term contour as swelling improves.
Liposuction FAQs
Liposuction removes stubborn pockets of subcutaneous fat to improve shape and proportion. It is a contouring procedure, not a primary weight-loss solution.
Common areas include the abdomen, flanks, back, thighs, arms, and other localized pockets that resist diet and exercise. Your plan is customized to keep transitions smooth and natural.
Liposuction removes fat, but it does not reliably tighten significantly loose skin. If skin laxity is a major concern, Dr. Sajjadian may recommend a different procedure or a combined approach.
Swelling, bruising, and soreness are common early on and improve over weeks. Results refine over time as swelling resolves and the tissues settle.
Compression is commonly recommended to help manage swelling and support the new contours during healing. Your timeline depends on the areas treated.
Liposuction can improve fat-related contour, while a tummy tuck addresses excess skin and muscle separation. Combining can create a more complete midsection result when both issues are present.
Many patients return to desk work relatively quickly, while physically demanding jobs may require more downtime. Your return depends on treatment extent and how you heal.
Walking is encouraged early on, but strenuous workouts and heavy lifting must wait until you are cleared. A gradual return to your normal exercise routine helps swelling resolve more evenly.
The removed fat cells do not grow back, but remaining fat cells can enlarge with weight gain. Maintaining stable weight helps preserve results.
Natural contour relies on careful planning, respecting skin elasticity, and creating smooth transitions rather than aggressive removal in one spot.
Consistency matters while swelling resolves:
- Wear compression garments as directed and be consistent
- Walk daily, but avoid strenuous workouts until cleared
- Stay hydrated and keep sodium reasonable to help swelling
- Maintain stable weight so results aren’t masked by new fat gain
When aftercare is consistent, swelling tends to resolve more evenly and your final contour is easier to maintain.
Mommy Makeover FAQs
A mommy makeover is a customized combination of procedures designed to address common changes after pregnancy and breastfeeding, often focusing on the breasts and abdomen.
Many plans include a tummy tuck plus a breast procedure such as augmentation, a lift, or a combination. Liposuction may be included for waistline refinement when appropriate.
Most patients do best when they are finished having children, since future pregnancy can stretch repaired tissues and change breast shape again.
Timing depends on healing, weight stability, and breastfeeding status. A consultation helps identify a safe and realistic window.
Most patients need help during the first week, especially for lifting children, household tasks, and errands. Planning support ahead of time makes recovery more manageable.
Time off depends on the procedure combination and your job demands. Many desk-based jobs plan around returning in 2 weeks, while physical jobs often require longer.
Both options exist. Combining procedures can mean undergoing one recovery period, while staging can reduce surgical time and simplify each recovery. Dr. Sajjadian will work with you to develop the best plan based on your safety and your support at home.
You’ll see changes early, but swelling can last for weeks. Refinement continues for months as tissues settle and scars mature.
Yes. If abdominal muscle separation is present, a tummy tuck planning may include muscle repair to restore a flatter profile and better support.
Natural results come from balance and tissue support. Dr. Sajjadian builds plans around your anatomy and priorities, so the result looks refined in real life, not exaggerated.
A realistic plan reduces stress and protects results:
- Arrange childcare and household help for at least the first week
- Prepare a recovery space that supports elevation and short walks
- Stock easy meals, hydration, and essentials within easy reach
- Block time off work and keep your calendar light during early healing
When support is in place, you can focus on rest and follow restrictions that protect both breast and abdominal results.
Breast Augmentation FAQs
Breast augmentation uses saline or silicone implants to improve breast size, volume, shape, and symmetry. The goal is a result that fits your frame and looks natural.
Many patients want more volume, improved symmetry, restored fullness after pregnancy or weight loss, or a better proportion between the chest and overall silhouette.
Both are options, and the best choice depends on your anatomy and goals for feel and appearance. Many patients prefer smooth silicone implants for a softer, more natural feel.
Profile affects how far the breasts project from the chest. Many patients seeking a natural look prefer moderate projection, while wide chest anatomy may benefit from a lower profile approach. During your consultation, Dr. Sajjadian will recommend implants for natural looking results.
Incision placement depends on your anatomy and surgical plan. Dr. Sajjadian will recommend the option that supports safe placement and discreet scaring.
Placement is chosen based on tissue thickness, contour goals, and long-term support. Dr. Sajjadian will explain how placement affects shape, cleavage, and recovery.
Soreness, swelling, and tightness are common early on and improve steadily. Many patients need help around the house for at least the first week as daily tasks can feel more challenging.
Many patients return to desk work within about a week, while physically demanding jobs may require longer and modified duties.
You will see immediate change, but final shape becomes clearer as swelling resolves and implants settle over the following weeks and months.
Natural results come from matching implant width and projection to your chest and tissue, rather than choosing a size that overwhelms your frame. During your consultation, Dr. Sajjadian will ensure you choose a complementary option.
Planning makes the first week smoother:
- Arrange a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours
- Plan help at home for at least the first week for lifting limits and daily tasks
- Prepare loose, front-opening tops to avoid overhead strain
- Set up a comfortable rest space and keep essentials within reach
When support is organized ahead of time, recovery tends to feel calmer and it’s easier to follow restrictions that protect your results.
Breast Lift FAQs
A breast lift (mastopexy) removes excess skin and repositions breast tissue to restore a more youthful breast shape. It is often chosen when breasts look like they are sagging or deflated due to pregnancy, weight changes, or aging.
A lift improves position and shape, while augmentation adds volume. If your main concern is sagging and nipple position, a lift may be the foundation. If your main concern is volume loss, augmentation may be the better fit, and some patients benefit from both.
A breast lift with implants combines mastopexy with augmentation. The lift restores tissue to a more youthful position, while implants add volume and shape for a fuller overall appearance.
A lift can improve shape and projection, but achieving significant upper fullness is often more predictable when implants are included. Your consultation clarifies what is realistic for your anatomy.
Yes. A lift requires incisions, and the scar pattern depends on how much reshaping is needed. Dr. Sajjadian will determine the most appropriate incision based on your anatomy. Scar care guidance and sun protection help scars fade more favorably over time.
Temporary sensation changes can occur as nerves recover. Dr. Sajjadian will discuss risk factors and what is typical for your specific plan.
Most patients have swelling and activity restrictions early on, with a gradual return to routine activities. Shape continues refining over months as tissues settle.
Many patients return to desk work within about 1 to 2 weeks, while physically demanding work may require more time and staged return.
Yes, but it’s important to note that pregnancy and breastfeeding can change breast shape again. Many patients choose to proceed when they feel their family and weight are relatively stable.
Yes. Some patients combine breast lift planning with other body contouring procedures when appropriate and when recovery demands are realistic.
A few practical steps help healing stay predictable:
- Plan time off work and help with lifting and errands during early restrictions
- Wear your recommended support garments consistently as directed
- Avoid nicotine and follow medication guidance closely
- Begin scar care only when you are cleared and protect scars from sun exposure
When aftercare is consistent, swelling tends to resolve more evenly and your breast shape typically settles more smoothly.
Schedule Your Consultation with Dr. Ali Sajjadian Today
Dr. Ali Sajjadian will help you understand your options and build a plan that fits your goals, anatomy, and timeline—whether you’re planning a first procedure or refining a result.
Call (949) 515-0550 or send us a message to schedule your consultation today.