Signature Procedure | Rhinoplasty: Splint Removal

Dr. Lara Devgan demonstrates the removal of a nose splint following her Signature Rhinoplasty Procedure.

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Removing the Splint 6 Days After Finesse Surgical Rhinoplasty for a Natural Result with a Refined Tip and Straight Bridge

Rhinoplasty has evolved far beyond dramatic transformations and overdone results. Today, the goal for many patients is subtle refinement—enhancing what’s already there while preserving natural character. This is especially true with finesse surgical rhinoplasty, a technique focused on precision, minimal trauma, and controlled, elegant outcomes. One of the most exciting milestones in this process comes just six days after surgery: splint removal.

Why the Splint Matters in the First Place

After rhinoplasty, a nasal splint is applied to protect the newly sculpted structures, maintain alignment, and minimize swelling. It acts as a stabilizing shell while the delicate internal work begins to set. During this early healing phase, even minor shifts could affect the final outcome, so the splint plays a critical role.

With finesse techniques, however, the surgical approach is intentionally less aggressive. That means less disruption to tissue, more preservation of structure, and ultimately a more predictable healing process. Because of this, patients are often ready to have their splint removed as early as day six.

What Happens at Day Six

Splint removal is a quick and painless in-office visit, but it carries a lot of emotional weight. This is the first real glimpse of your new nose.

At this stage, you can expect to see:

• A straighter nasal bridge, free of previous bumps or irregularities

• A refined nasal tip that looks more structured but not over-rotated or artificial

• Overall improved balance with your facial features

It’s important to understand that while the changes are visible immediately, swelling is still present—especially in the tip. What you’re seeing is an early version of your result, not the final form.

The “Natural” Look Starts Here

One of the biggest concerns patients have is looking “done.” The finesse approach directly addresses this by avoiding over-resection and instead sculpting with restraint.

At six days post-op, this philosophy becomes clear:

• The nose doesn’t look drastically different at first glance—it looks better, not different

• The bridge appears smooth and straight without looking flattened

• The tip is refined but still soft, not pinched or sharp

This is the hallmark of a successful natural rhinoplasty: people notice you look great, but they can’t quite pinpoint why.

Swelling, Healing, and Patience

Even though the splint is off, healing is far from over. Expect:

• Mild swelling, especially in the mornings

• Gradual definition of the tip over weeks to months

• Continued refinement of contours as tissues settle

Most patients feel comfortable being seen socially shortly after splint removal, often with minimal signs of surgery.

Why Timing Matters

Removing the splint at day six strikes a balance between protection and progression. Leave it on too long, and you delay that first look and potentially trap unnecessary swelling. Remove it too early, and you risk compromising structural stability.

With finesse rhinoplasty, the precision of the surgery allows for this earlier reveal without sacrificing safety or results.

The Takeaway

Day six is a turning point. It’s where careful surgical planning meets visible transformation. The splint comes off, and in its place is a nose that already hints at the final result: a straight, elegant bridge and a refined, natural-looking tip that fits your face—not someone else’s ideal.

The real magic of finesse rhinoplasty isn’t just what changes. It’s what stays the same—your identity, your expressions, your individuality—just elevated.

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Appointment Inquiries

For inquiries and appointments, please email appointments at appointments@laradevganmd.com or call 212-452-2400. You may also use the following button to schedule an appointment online. We look forward to hearing from you. Thank you!

Doctor's Notes | Breast Implants: How to Choose the Right Ones for You

In this TikTok, Dr. Lara Devgan gives an overview on breast implants.

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Breast Implants: How to Choose the Right Ones for You

Breast augmentation is one of the most personalized procedures in aesthetic surgery—and also one of the most misunderstood. The goal isn’t simply to “go bigger.” It’s to create balance, proportion, and a result that feels aligned with your body and your identity.

Choosing the right implants comes down to a series of decisions that work together: size, shape, material, profile, and placement. None of these exist in isolation. The best outcomes happen when every variable is tailored to you.

Start with the Outcome, Not the Implant

Most people begin by asking, “What size implant should I get?” But cup size is a flawed starting point. Bra sizing is inconsistent across brands, and implants don’t translate cleanly into cup sizes.

A better approach is to define your goal:

• Do you want a subtle, natural enhancement or a more dramatic change?

• Are you trying to restore volume after weight loss or pregnancy?

• Do you want more fullness at the top of the breast, or a softer, sloped contour?

Your answers shape every technical decision that follows.

Implant Type: Silicone vs. Saline

There are two primary types of breast implants:

Silicone implants are filled with a cohesive gel that closely mimics the feel of natural breast tissue. They tend to look and feel more natural, especially in patients with less existing breast volume.

Saline implants are filled with sterile saltwater. They’re inserted empty and filled during surgery, which allows for smaller incisions. However, they can feel less natural and are more prone to visible rippling in thinner patients.

For most patients today, silicone is the preferred choice—but the right option depends on your anatomy and priorities.

Shape: Round vs. Anatomical

Round implants are the most commonly used. They provide fullness in the upper portion of the breast and maintain their shape regardless of position. They’re versatile and can look very natural when sized appropriately.

Anatomical (teardrop-shaped) implants are designed to mimic the natural slope of the breast. While they can be effective in select cases, they come with trade-offs—most notably the risk of rotation, which can distort breast shape.

In modern practice, many surgeons favor round implants because they achieve natural results with fewer long-term concerns.

Profile: How Far the Implant Projects

Profile refers to how much the implant projects outward from the chest wall. Options typically range from low to extra-high.

• Low profile: wider base, less projection

• Moderate profile: balanced width and projection

• High profile: narrower base, more projection

Your chest width plays a major role here. A narrower chest often pairs better with higher-profile implants, while a wider chest may suit moderate or low profiles. Choosing the wrong profile can throw off proportions—even if the volume is technically “correct.”

Size: It’s About Proportion, Not Numbers

Implant size is measured in cubic centimeters (cc), not cup sizes. But the number itself is only part of the story.

The same implant can look completely different on two people. Factors like chest width, existing breast tissue, skin elasticity, and body frame all influence the final result.

This is why experienced surgeons often use sizers, imaging, or in-office simulations—to help you visualize how different volumes will look on your body, not just in theory.

Placement: Above or Below the Muscle

Implants can be placed either:

• Under the chest muscle (submuscular)

• Over the muscle (subglandular)

Under-the-muscle placement tends to look more natural in patients with less existing tissue and reduces the risk of visible rippling. It’s also associated with a lower risk of certain complications.

Over-the-muscle placement may be appropriate for patients with more natural breast volume or specific aesthetic goals. It can involve a shorter recovery but requires careful patient selection.

Incision Options and Scarring

Common incision locations include:

• Inframammary (under the breast fold)

• Periareolar (around the nipple)

• Transaxillary (through the armpit)

Each has its pros and cons, but the inframammary approach is the most widely used today because it provides excellent visibility and control while keeping scars well-hidden.

Longevity and Maintenance

Breast implants are not considered lifetime devices—but they also don’t have an expiration date. Many patients keep the same implants for 10–20 years or longer without issues.

You may choose (or need) to replace them over time due to:

• Natural aging of the breast

• Changes in preference

• Implant rupture or complications

Routine monitoring, especially with silicone implants, is recommended to ensure long-term safety.

The Most Important Factor: Your Surgeon

All the choices above matter—but none matter more than the judgment of your surgeon. The right surgeon doesn’t just ask what you want. They assess your anatomy, guide your expectations, and design a plan that will age well over time.

A great result doesn’t announce itself. It looks effortless, balanced, and completely your own.

Bottom Line

There’s no universal “best” breast implant—only the one that best fits you.

When done right, breast augmentation doesn’t change who you are. It refines your proportions, enhances your confidence, and brings your body into alignment with how you want to feel.

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Doctor's Notes | What is the Optimal Age for a Woman's Facelift?

Signature Procedure | Facelift (click the image for more information)

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What Is the Optimal Age for a Woman’s Facelift?

The idea that there’s a single “perfect age” for a facelift is one of the most persistent myths in aesthetic medicine. The truth is more nuanced—and far more empowering. The optimal timing for a facelift isn’t defined by a number. It’s defined by anatomy, aging patterns, and personal goals.

Why Age Alone Isn’t the Right Metric

Two women at the same age can have dramatically different faces. Genetics, sun exposure, skincare, lifestyle, and weight fluctuations all influence how the face ages. Some women in their early 40s may show significant skin laxity and jowling, while others in their late 50s maintain strong structural support with minimal sagging.

A facelift addresses structural aging—specifically the descent of facial tissues, loss of jawline definition, and laxity in the neck. These changes don’t follow a strict timeline. They appear gradually and differently for everyone.

The Real “Sweet Spot”

Most surgeons agree there is a general window where facelift results tend to be most impactful and natural: typically the mid-40s to mid-50s.

At this stage:

• Skin still has enough elasticity to heal well and redrape smoothly

• Aging changes are visible but not extreme

• The procedure can deliver a significant improvement without looking “overdone”

Patients in this range often achieve the most balanced outcome: refreshed, defined, and natural—without signaling that surgery was performed.

What Happens If You Do It Too Early?

There’s a growing trend of younger patients (late 30s to early 40s) seeking facelifts. While early intervention can be appealing, it’s not always the right move.

If structural aging hasn’t fully developed:

• Results may be subtle relative to the invasiveness

• You may “use up” a surgical intervention earlier than necessary

• Non-surgical treatments (like injectables, skin tightening, or laser resurfacing) may be more appropriate

That said, in select cases—especially with strong genetic predisposition to early sagging—a conservative, well-executed facelift can be justified earlier.

What About Waiting Too Long?

On the other end, waiting into the 60s or beyond doesn’t disqualify someone from a facelift—but it can change the equation.

Later-stage aging often includes:

• More significant skin laxity

• Deeper folds and volume loss

• Reduced skin elasticity

While excellent results are still achievable, they may require more extensive surgery, and the outcome may lean more toward “restoration” than subtle refinement. Recovery can also be longer.

The Role of Modern Techniques

Today’s facelift techniques have evolved significantly. Deep plane and SMAS-based approaches focus on repositioning underlying structures—not just tightening skin. This leads to more natural, longer-lasting results across a wider age range.

Because of this, the conversation has shifted away from “When should I get a facelift?” to “When will a facelift give me the best version of myself?”

The Right Question to Ask

Instead of focusing on age, the better question is:
“Am I starting to see changes that can only be corrected surgically?”

If you notice:

• Loss of jawline definition

• Jowling

• Neck laxity

• A tired or heavy lower face

—and these concerns don’t respond meaningfully to non-surgical treatments—it may be the right time to consider a facelift.

A Personalized Decision

Ultimately, the optimal timing is personal. It depends on your anatomy, your tolerance for aging changes, and your aesthetic goals.

The best outcomes happen when:

• The procedure is done neither too early nor too late

• The surgeon tailors the approach to your unique structure

• The goal is refinement, not transformation

A facelift should never make you look like someone else. It should make you look like yourself—just at your best.

Bottom Line

There’s no universal “right age” for a facelift. But there is a right time for you. And it’s defined less by the calendar—and more by what you see in the mirror.

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Signature Procedure | Nonsurgical Profile Balancing

Dr. Lara Devgan demonstrates her Signature Nonsurgical Profile Balancing Procedure in this TikTok.

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Profile Balancing: The Key to Facial Harmony

When it comes to facial aesthetics, balance is everything. You’ve probably heard phrases like “well-proportioned” or “symmetrical beauty” before, and that’s because the human eye is naturally drawn to harmony. True facial beauty isn’t about having the perfect nose, chin, or jawline in isolation—it’s about how these features work together. This concept lies at the heart of profile balancing.

In this blog post, we’ll explain what profile balancing is, why it’s important, and how subtle adjustments can create a more harmonious, attractive facial profile.

What Is Profile Balancing?
Profile balancing is an approach to facial enhancement that focuses on achieving harmony between key features when viewed from the side. The nose, chin, jawline, and even the lips all play a role in determining how balanced your profile looks. If one feature is disproportionately prominent or recessed, it can disrupt that balance and affect the overall symmetry of your face.

The goal of profile balancing is to bring your features into proportion so that no single area stands out too much or too little. This holistic approach is what sets profile balancing apart from procedures that address just one feature, like rhinoplasty or chin augmentation, on their own.

Key Features That Affect Profile Balance

1. The Nose
   Since the nose is centrally located on your face, even small changes to its size, shape, or angle can have a major impact on your overall profile. A hump, drooping tip, or asymmetry can draw attention away from other features and disrupt facial balance. A rhinoplasty (surgical nose reshaping) or liquid rhinoplasty (nonsurgical nose job using fillers) can address these concerns and enhance profile balance.

2. The Chin
   The chin plays a crucial role in defining the lower part of your face and balancing the projection of your nose. A recessed or weak chin can make the nose appear larger, while an overly prominent chin may draw attention downward. Chin augmentation with implants or fillers can improve projection and bring the lower face into harmony with the rest of your profile.

3. The Jawline
   A well-defined jawline adds structure to the face and enhances profile balance. Jawline contouring, which may involve fillers, Botox, or even jaw surgery, can address concerns like a weak jawline, jowls, or asymmetry.

4. The Lips
   While often associated with front-facing beauty, the lips also contribute to profile balance. Full, proportionate lips that complement the nose, chin, and jawline can enhance overall facial harmony. Lip fillers can be used to subtly enhance the lip shape and volume without overpowering the profile.

5. The Forehead
   The forehead, though less frequently discussed, plays a role in profile balance by contributing to the overall curvature of the face. A flat or disproportionately large forehead can sometimes affect the balance between the upper and lower face. In certain cases, treatments like forehead reshaping, Botox, or brow lifts can help improve balance.

Surgical vs. Nonsurgical Profile Balancing
Not everyone is ready to commit to surgery—and the good news is that you don’t always have to. Profile balancing can be achieved through both surgical and nonsurgical options, depending on your goals and the extent of the changes needed.

• Surgical Options: Rhinoplasty, chin implants, and jaw surgery offer permanent, dramatic results for those looking to make significant adjustments to their facial profile.

• Nonsurgical Options: Dermal fillers, Botox, and thread lifts provide temporary enhancements that can improve profile balance without downtime or incisions. These are great for those seeking subtle changes or who want to “try out” their new look before committing to surgery.

The Importance of a Personalized Approach
When it comes to profile balancing, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Every face is unique, and what works for one person might not be the best option for another. A skilled plastic surgeon or aesthetic provider will assess your facial structure, listen to your concerns, and develop a customized treatment plan designed to enhance your natural beauty while maintaining your individuality.

The Benefits of Profile Balancing

• Enhanced Facial Harmony: By bringing your features into proportion, profile balancing can improve overall symmetry and create a more harmonious look.

• Natural-Looking Results: The goal is to enhance your natural beauty, not change your face beyond recognition.

• Increased Confidence: When your facial features are in balance, it can make a big difference in how you see yourself—and how others perceive you.

• Customizable Solutions: Whether you prefer surgical or nonsurgical treatments, there are options to fit your preferences and lifestyle.

Is Profile Balancing Right for You?
If you’ve ever felt that your nose looks too large, your chin too small, or your jawline undefined, profile balancing might be the solution you’re looking for. By taking a holistic approach to facial enhancement, you can achieve subtle, natural-looking improvements that enhance your overall appearance and boost your confidence.

The best way to determine if profile balancing is right for you is to schedule a consultation with a qualified provider. They’ll help you understand your options, answer any questions you have, and work with you to create a treatment plan that brings your facial features into perfect harmony.

With the right approach, even small adjustments can lead to big improvements—and the confidence that comes from loving what you see in the mirror.

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Appointment Inquiries

For inquiries and appointments, please email appointments at appointments@laradevganmd.com or call 212-452-2400. You may also use the following button to schedule an appointment online. We look forward to hearing from you. Thank you!

Doctor's Notes | Breast Surgery: An Overview

In this TikTok, Dr. Lara Devgan gives an overview on breast surgery.

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An Overview of Breast Surgery

Breast surgery is a highly personalized field of aesthetic and reconstructive medicine, designed to restore balance, proportion, and confidence. Whether enhancing, lifting, or reducing, the goal is always harmony—between the breasts themselves, the body as a whole, and the individual’s sense of self.

Breast Augmentation
Through implants or fat transfer, augmentation enhances breast volume and shape while maintaining natural movement and softness. It’s about more than size—it’s about sculpting curves that complement a patient’s anatomy and create aesthetic balance across the torso.

Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
Over time, gravity, weight changes, and pregnancy can cause the breasts to lose shape and position. A lift restores youthful contour by elevating and reshaping the breast tissue, often paired with an implant or fat grafting for optimal fullness and proportion.

Breast Reduction
For patients experiencing discomfort or imbalance from larger breasts, reduction surgery offers both aesthetic and physical relief. The result is a lighter, more proportionate silhouette that aligns with the body’s frame and enhances posture, comfort, and confidence.

Reconstruction and Revision
Following mastectomy, trauma, or previous surgery, reconstructive and revision procedures aim to restore natural form and symmetry. These surgeries often combine advanced surgical planning with aesthetic artistry to rebuild not only structure, but also identity and self-assurance.

Across all breast surgeries, precision and personalization define the outcome. Every technique, incision, and contour is guided by the principle of achieving results that look and feel authentic—refined enhancements that honor each patient’s individuality.

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