A boost in self-confidence and positive body image can make plastic surgery a sought-after procedure, especially after undergoing breast cancer treatment or suffering traumatic injuries in accidents.
Dr. Leif Nordberg opened Cape Fear Valley Plastic Surgery almost three years ago as part of Cape Fear Valley Health to address the needs of breast cancer patients, including breast reconstructive surgery.
“I see a lot of breast cancer patients. There are no other plastic surgeons in this area, and Cape Fear Valley recognized the need,” says Dr. Nordberg.
Breast cancer affects one in eight women and continues to be one of the major health concerns in the nation, according to the American Cancer Society.
“We try to turn a terrible, scary situation into something more positive,” says Dr. Nordberg.
Losing a breast in a mastectomy or part of a breast in a lumpectomy can be traumatic, according to Dr. Nordberg.
He offers two main methods of breast reconstruction: the use of implants or creating a new breast using the patient’s own tissue with a transverse rectus abdominis, or TRAM, flap.
Breast augmentation, one of the more sought-after surgeries Dr. Nordberg performs, can help patients address cup size and projection; improve symmetry; and restore volume. The office can also perform breast lifts and reductions.
“Seventy percent of what we are looking at in our office is reconstructive. It’s an important part of our practice,” says Dr. Nordberg.
In other cases, a patient just wants to right something that has felt wrong to them. Dr. Nordberg says body contouring can address those issues.
Brachioplasty, or arm lift surgery; liposuction; tummy tucks; body lift procedures; body contouring after weight loss; and the “mommy makeover” are other options.
Dr. Nordberg says diet and exercise cannot always adequately address problems associated with pregnancy, weight gain or loss, and breastfeeding, which can affect confidence and body image.
“The ‘mommy makeover’ is a comprehensive procedure that can include a tummy tuck, liposuction and a breast lift with implants. It helps our patients feel like themselves again,” says Dr. Nordberg.
New procedures
The office has continued to grow, recently adding nonsurgical procedures such as skin care, neurotoxins, fillers and other treatments that complement surgery options.
Tabitha Strickland, a registered nurse specializing in injections such as Botox and Juvéderm, was added to the staff for such procedures.
“Tabitha is doing Botox and similar injections, and it’s becoming a growing part of our practice. She has had rave reviews on her bedside manner and techniques,” says Nordberg.
The nonsurgical procedures also include CoolSculpting, which helps freeze unwanted fat cells for a nonsurgical body sculpting, and skin lesion treatment, which deals with skin cancer, sun damage, brown spots, moles and other skin issues.
“There is something for everyone with our skincare line. Our topical treatments are suggested after an in-depth skin analysis,” says Strickland.
Tailored treatment
For procedures such as Lipo 360, Dr. Nordberg says he can look at the body with a 360-degree improvement in mind, determining what is needed to address the front, side and back of the body, not just one part.
“Everyone is a bit different, and we tailor procedures to your body. We get to understand the patient’s desires and wants, including addressing rolls on the back, which we call ‘bra fat,’ or even the flank right above the butt,” says Dr. Nordberg.
Recent patient Toye Davis, 49, underwent an abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, with liposuction on her abdomen, flanks and back rolls.
“I appreciated his excitement and professionalism from start to finish. Dr. Nordberg made me feel comfortable about the entire process. His staff is very professional and put me at ease. Overall, the practice has a great team, and we have a great hospital. I would definitely recommend Dr. Nordberg to anyone and have already done so,” says Davis.
Dr. Nordberg says the bottom line is that his practice is about people.
“We help people through difficult times or to achieve the results that they want. Our team works well together, and I love coming to work in the morning,” said Dr. Nordberg.
For initial consultations and appointments, call (910) 829-6588. Cape Fear Valley Plastic Surgery is at 1841 Quiet Cove.
Jami McLaughlin is a freelance writer for CityView. She has deep family roots in Spring Lake and in Cumberland County and is also currently the director of government relations and military affairs for the Greater Fayetteville Chamber. She is a graduate of East Carolina University, where she received a bachelor’s degree in communications, and Central Michigan University, where she earned a master’s degree in administration. She has four beautiful children who attend Village Christian Academy.
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