“If you notice a change in your breast tissue, consult your health professional,” the breast self-examination card hanging in patient Deborah Jones’ shower reads. For years, Deborah would go through the technique of routinely checking her breasts: pressing the pads of her index, middle and ring fingers to her opposite side with firm to light […]
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The saying, “it takes a village,” applies to many aspects of life and a breast cancer diagnosis is no exception. In a moment where time may seem to simultaneously stand still and speed up all at once, the greatest thing a patient can do when ready is assemble their “village,” or treatment team. This may […]
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Mary McKeever had given birth to four beautiful children. Her oldest is almost 11 and her youngest is four. She’d been considering reconstructive body surgery, or a “mommy makeover,” to make her feel healthy and strong for several years. While researching plastic surgeons in the Austin, Texas area, she came across Dr. Elisabeth Potter. Through […]
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Breast reconstruction after a mastectomy is a very personal choice often made in the midst of a life-changing decision for life-saving surgery. This choice is driven by unique and personal experiences. Options may include implant-based reconstruction, DIEP flap reconstruction or a procedure commonly called Aesthetic Flat Closure. These were just some of the decisions Molly […]
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Since 2006, breast augmentation has been the top cosmetic surgical procedure in the United States, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Like all surgeries, however, its popularity does not mean that it comes without risk. That’s why it’s important to speak with a board-certified plastic surgeon about the risks of breast augmentation and […]
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In honor of National Cancer Prevention month, we’re providing tips on how individuals can better protect themselves in the fight against breast cancer. Next to lung cancer, breast cancer is the second most common type of cancer in American women¹. While breast cancer cannot be prevented, there are protective factors that women can take to […]
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At Dr. Elisabeth Potter’s practice, our patients are always our priority. While this year has been challenging in many ways, it provided an opportunity for us to be even more present and engaged with our patients. If ever there was a time to prioritize self-care, 2020 was it and we are honored to be a […]
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Excellence. Empowerment. Education. Patient care. These are the four main pillars that comprise Dr. Potter’s practice and while this year may have been different than any we’ve previously seen, we’re thankful to have remained connected to our patients and to have continued building upon these values. Putting our patients first, Dr. Potter leads by example […]
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[00:00:22] Hi, I’m Dr. Elisabeth Potter, I am an Austin-based board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in natural breast reconstruction. I am so glad you’ve joined me today. We’re halfway through November, and as I reflect upon the last month and year, I’m so thankful to have been involved in so many patient journeys over the last […]
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[00:00:10] Hi, I’m Dr. Elisabeth Potter, I am a board-certified plastic surgeon based in Austin, Texas, and my specialty is breast reconstruction. As a DIEP flap surgeon, I have the privilege of being able to help women on their journey to reconstruction feel more confident and whole in their skin. In honor of Breast Reconstruction […]
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Navigating breast cancer or a genetic predisposition to it can be overwhelming. Empowering women to remain the captains of their own ships, my goal as a plastic surgeon is to provide advanced breast reconstruction options that make them feel confident and whole in their skin. Depending on a patient’s unique circumstance, preference and in consultation […]
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When I was training, I very vividly remember being taught by an older plastic surgeon that the goal for breast reconstruction was for a woman to appear symmetrical and balanced in clothing, and that out of clothing “all bets were off.” This statement immediately struck me as unsatisfying, and I aimed to set a different […]
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I have been thinking about all of our patients and wanted to touch base with you. If you’ve been our patient, you’ve heard our philosophy – we don’t always control what happens to us, but we control our response. We are proud to be part of your response to breast cancer, and we want you […]
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Becoming Whole Again with Dr. Elisabeth Potter Breast reconstruction surgeon, Dr. Elisabeth Potter, was recently featured on an episode of More Than Pink, a local podcast by Susan G. Komen, where she shared her plastic surgery experience with DIEP flap breast reconstruction techniques. Using a patient’s own tissue to produce a natural and aesthetically pleasing […]
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You may know the Vinnie Myers Team from the Today Show, YouTube, Facebook and the internet. Recently, we sat down with Paul Bessette and Trent Wyczawski – two members of the infamous foursome – to talk about nipple tattooing, their commitment to helping women face breast cancer and what patients can expect when they reach […]
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You’ve set the wedding date, chosen the venue, sent the invitations, and planned the reception. Wait! What about your skin? Avoid saying “Yes To The Stress” when planning your upcoming nuptials by booking your personalized skincare consultation at least 6 months in advance with our aesthetic experts. You don’t need additional breakouts, brides – so […]
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Your skin is the largest organ of your body – on average, covering about 20 square feet. Are you taking proper care of it? At the very least, if your daily skin routine does not include a basic cleanser, moisturizer or sunscreen, you could be unknowingly speeding up the natural aging process. Just like the impact of […]
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If you’re familiar with breast cancer, you know firsthand about the host of surgeries and procedures involved in a diagnosis – all of which can, and sometimes do, leave a lasting physical impact. From biopsies to lymph node removal, lumpectomies, mastectomies and reconstruction, breast cancer surgery side effects can be problematic post-surgery for many patients. […]
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In the early days of breast reconstruction, patients were limited to implants. More recently, however, a number of techniques have been developed that involve using the patient’s natural tissue, fat, and even blood vessels to build the new breast(s). These procedures, collectively, are called natural breast reconstruction, and offer a more natural look and feel than […]
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A visit to the plastic surgeon taboo? Not anymore. Millions of Americans are now seeking non-surgical cosmetic procedures, and that doesn’t appear to be changing anytime soon. In fact, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, more than 6.6 million injections were performed in 2015 alone! Up 40% from just 5 years ago, […]
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Breast reconstruction surgery offers women a way to rebuild not just their breasts but also their self-esteem and confidence after a diagnosis of breast cancer. This type of surgery consists of a number of procedures from which women can choose, from traditional implants to the newer and more advanced DIEP flap surgery, whereby tissue from […]
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If you’ve ever wondered about the hype surrounding non-surgical cosmetic procedures, but have never taken the time to research them, read on. Here’s a quick rundown of what popular fillers and injectables (such as Juvederm, Botox and Kybella) can do for you. Juvederm The #1 selling filler in the US, Juvederm lifts, smoothes and/or plumps […]
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October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and efforts are underway all around the country to encourage discussion, education, and fundraising regarding this disease. The increase in awareness has translated into a declining mortality rate for breast cancer (at a rate of almost 2 percent per year), as well as a decline in the number of […]
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With an estimated 246,600 women in the United States to be diagnosed with breast cancer this year alone, and with more than 2.8 million women in the United States with a history of breast cancer, the need for October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month is clear. These 31 days of fundraising and discussion about breast cancer […]
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When it comes to breast reconstruction, maintaining a normal look and feel to the breast is important in helping patients feel confident and accepting of their new bodies. With many types of breast reconstruction surgery, however, the breast is replaced with implants or with muscle and skin from other parts of the body. The result […]
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Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, with 1 in 8 women diagnosed in her lifetime. A good defense is crucial, and comes most easily in the form of knowledge. Being aware of the preliminary signs and symptoms is your best strategy for detecting breast cancer early. Breast Cancer Awareness Month lasts throughout […]
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Summer is almost here! New bikini…? check. Bejeweled flip-flops…? check. Reading material…? beach towel… ? Done, and done! Now, is there anything else we’ve missed before we start lounging poolside? Yes! How could we forget? THE COVER UP! (Pssst… We’re talking about much more here than the cute sarong you found on discount last week.) Nothing […]
Read MoreIt’s the Internet Age. Information is available right at our fingertips, and it’s frequently assumed that we are deferring to reliable sources, providing only the facts. Particularly when it comes to health and serious surgical procedures like breast reconstruction, it is imperative to filter out the vast amount of misinformation you may come across. […]
Read MoreWe all know that exercise is good for our overall health and appearance, but did you know that it can even slow the aging process? Even with all of its benefits, it is far too often the first thing we sacrifice when life gets hectic. But in order to maintain our health, vitality, and our […]
Read MoreIf your lymphatic system has been damaged or compromised because of cancer treatments, you could be at risk for lymphedema. Lymphedema is a buildup of fluid in soft tissue due to a blockage in the lymphatic system. People who have undergone treatment for cancer are particularly at risk, especially when lymph nodes have been […]
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One of the most important aspects of undergoing any type of surgery is piece of mind. This can come in many shapes and forms. Of course, any surgery under consideration should be well researched, and the doctor you choose should be carefully selected. In particular, some of the more complex surgeries, such as DIEP […]
Read MoreLinda W. shares how Dr. Potter’s specialized Fat Grafting Breast Reconstruction Surgery provides real value in the restoration of one’s mental & physical well-being. This is an encouraging testament, especially for those facing similar circumstances. Commonly performed for cosmetic reasons, fat grafting is another powerful and natural method of breast reconstruction. During fat grafting breast […]
Read MoreAs you are preparing for your breast reconstruction surgery, you will often times hear friends and family offer to help during your recovery. You might hear something to the effect of, “Let me know if you need anything.” People sincerely want to be helpful, but they usually don’t know exactly how to help and […]
Read MoreAfter your DIEP Flap Surgery, your body needs the right fuel to heal properly to maintain good health and avoid complications. A healthy diet, packed with vitamins and minerals, will help expedite the healing process, increase energy levels and strength, and maintain weight, while decreasing the risk of infection. Here are some foods to include […]
Read MoreAs a part of breast cancer awareness this month, Dr. Potter speaks to KVUE ABC about breast reconstruction and how it can be a positive option for survivors. While a majority of doctors tell their patients that there is nothing survivors can do about the cosmetic effects of breast cancer treatment. Thus, there is an […]
Read MoreLymphedema is the buildup of fluid in soft tissues when the lymph system is damaged or block and can occur following breast cancer surgery or radiation. It is an incurable condition that can cause pain and swelling. Now, with new technology, surgeons are able to provide some relief using a new infrared camera. Dr. Potter […]
Read MoreWith a $50 million contribution from LIVESTRONG Foundation, the Dell Medical School has exceeded its $3 billion goal for its 8-year campaign. The new medical school will be the first one in decades to be constructed by a tier-one university. UT Austin has said that the school helps them become a greater service to society […]
Read MoreA tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a surgery where excess abdominal fat and skin is removed. When the loose extra skin is removed and the tissues beneath the skin are tightened, an abdominoplasty creates a flatter stomach. The extra tissue from the abdomen is ideal for use in breast reconstruction. During the procedure, […]
Read MoreThere are two main categories of breast reconstruction surgery: implant and autologous. In an implant surgery, the breast is usually reshaped in two stages. During the first stage, a tissue expander is used. An implant is placed during the second stage. In an autologous surgery, that uses natural tissue, the breast is reshaped using muscle, […]
Read MoreAccording to a New York Times article, “Do Women Make Better Doctors?”, several studies have shown that female doctors tend to be more encouraging and reassuring, use shared decision-making, ask more psychosocial questions and spend more time — up to 10 percent more — with patients than male doctors do. “I think that being a […]
Read MoreAfter a diagnosis of breast cancer, a woman may need to have all or part of her breast removed as part of her treatment. When all of the breast is removed, this procedure is called a mastectomy. When part of the breast is removed, it is called a partial mastectomy or lumpectomy. The Women’s Health […]
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