Plastic Surgery in Washington

You Can Improve Your Sun-Damaged Skin With Laser Treatments

2009-12-10T10:21:00.000-08:00

Currently, there are many lasers used for facial and skin rejuvenation and to treat sun damage and photo-aging of the skin. One older laser system, the carbon dioxide laser, has been very effective for treating sun damaged skin but has fallen out of favor. This is because it routinely caused extensive rawness of the skin that typically required over 2 weeks of “hiding out” or “downtime” to recover. In addition to the time it took to heal, it frequently caused skin discoloration and occasionally scarring. Many lasers available today require very little downtime and yield some improvement of the skin but are not nearly as effective as the carbon dioxide laser. As with any procedure, anyone considering laser skin treatments should first consult with a plastic surgeon prior to under going their chosen procedure.

Protruding Ears Are Usually A Family Trait That Surgery Can Fix

2009-12-07T13:41:00.000-08:00

Just as it is with all facial features, the size and shape of the ears are a family trait. For example, parents and grandparents with protruding ears, often have children with ears that share these same characteristics. Ear deformities can benefit from correction through surgery, and successful results can be seen in subjects as young as 4 years old. By this age, the ears have almost reached maturity and adult size, so very little change is expected after the age of 4.

During an ear surgery procedure, the plastic surgeon repositions the flexible ear cartilage. The incisions required for this procedure are usually placed behind the ear where any resulting scars will be the least visible. While there are several variations in techniques for ear surgery, the goal of the ear surgery procedure is the same in all cases - to provide a normal, more balanced appearance to the ears.

Breast augmentation Surgery and The Types of Implants Used

2009-11-20T16:43:00.000-08:00

Most people these days are familiar with the popularity of Breast Augmentation surgery. What most of those people do not realize is that there are different types of implants used in breast augmentation surgery, and each type of implant has its different applications, that depend on the preferences of the augmentation patient, the plastic surgeon and lastly, the surgery technique used for the placement of the breast implants.

The saline implant has an exterior sack comprised of solid silicone, which is filled with a saline solution similar to the solution that is used for intravenous fluids during and after surgery. The main advantage of this solution is its safety. Should a saline breast implant leak, the saline solution is absorbed into the body.. Another great advantage of saline breast implants is that the saline breast implant poses a low infection rate, usually less than two percent.

The silicone implant is filled with a silicone gel surrounded by a solid silicone sack. More than a million women in America today have these silicone breast implants. Some patients and surgeons alike agree that the silicone breast implant results in a more natural looking breast.

Cohesive gel implants (also referred to as the "gummy bear" implant) are silicone implants that are filled with a thicker silicone gel that holds its shape and form much like a "gummy bear". If you one were to cut into a standard silicone breast implant, the liquid silicone gel escapes from the implants shell. Conversely, when you cut open a "gummy bear implant, the implant itself maintains the shape and integrity because the thicker silicone gel does not leak. These shaped implants are designed with the main focus being a natural look. Cohesive Gel implants maintain their shape in an upright position, which lessens the chances of the implant's shell folding or rippling.

When electing to have breast augmentation surgery, one should always consult with a cosmetic surgeon before to the surgical procedure. This is an important step that should be taken seriously. With any surgical procedure, there is a level of risk, and anyone considering a breast implant surgery procedure become informed of the risks involved, and fully understand the procedure, and be realistic about the results of this type of surgery procedure.

Breast Reduction Surgery- Is It Right Fror You?

2009-11-18T08:23:00.001-08:00

Breast Reduction surgery, also referred to as Reduction Mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure meant to reduce breast size and weight through the removal of excess breast tissue, fat and skin. With a breast reduction procedure, the plastic surgeon not only makes the breasts more proportionate to a woman’s figure, but also lifts them.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, more than 114 thousand Breast Reduction surgeries were performed in 2005 on women who had excessively large breasts, conditions also known as Macromastia, Mammary Hypertrophy and Mammary Gigantism. Some girls develop breast overdevelopment (Mammary Hypertrophy) during puberty, while some women develop very large breasts (Gigantomastia) during pregnancy. All of these women chose breast reduction surgery because it was the only way to correct the physical and emotional issues that are caused by excess breast weight. For many women with Mammary Hypertrophy, the mere weight of their breasts makes it impossible to maintain any kind of regular exercise routine.

A woman with "F" cup breasts is carrying approximately six pounds more than a woman with a "D" cup. This additional weight is sustained by the neck, back and shoulders, causing chronic pain in these areas. Many women find relief through strong narcotics and muscle relaxants, leading to physical addiction, and emotional trauma. With these considerations, Mammary Hypertrophy is a physical disability. A Breast reduction procedure can be the answer to these issues for women with overly large breasts.

Breast Reduction Surgery - A Procedural Overview

2009-11-18T08:23:00.000-08:00

Breast Reduction surgery, also known as Reduction Mammoplasty surgery, is a breast procedure designed to reduce breast size and weight by removing excess breast tissue, fat and skin. During a breast reduction surgery procedure, the plastic surgeon reduces the breasts to create a more proportionate figure, and also lifts the breasts.

According to the ASPS, more than 114,000 Breast Reduction surgeries were performed in 2005 on women who had excessively large breasts, conditions also known as Macromastia, Mammary Hypertrophy and Mammary Gigantism. Some girls experience over-development of thier breasts (Mammary Hypertrophy) during puberty, while some women develop very large breasts (Gigantomastia) during pregnancy. All of these women chose breast reduction surgery because it was the best method of correction for the physical and emotional issues that are caused by excess breast weight. For many with Mammary Hypertrophy, the mere weight of the breasts makes it impossible to maintain any kind of regular exercise plan.

A woman with "F" cup breasts is carrying approximately six pounds more than a woman with "D" cup breasts. This additional weight is sustained in the neck, back and shoulders, causing chronic pain in these areas of the body. Many find relief through the use of strong narcotics and muscle relaxants, leading to possible physical addiction, and emotional anguish. With these considerations, Mammary Hypertrophy is a physical disability. Breast reduction surgery can be the answer to these issues for women with overly large breasts.

The Disposable Surgical Medical Device

2009-11-16T22:55:00.001-08:00

Reusable cannulas, standard surgical instruments for liposuction and fat transfers, introduce doctors and patients to a number of potential safety and performance risks. Difficult to clean and sterilize, reusable cannulas increase the risk of cross-patient contamination from diseases such as hepatitis and HIV. In addition, these stainless steel devices are susceptible to internal corrosion that damages fat cells and tissue, reducing the quality of certain procedures and hindering patient recovery.

New syringe-based disposable cannulas overcome these challenges by eliminating the need to clean and sterilize cannulas. Because each procedure is performed using a new cannula, corrosion concerns no longer exist. Disposable cannulas are also economically priced and can be easily billed to clients, providing doctors extra revenue potential.

Bigger, Easier, Better - LookingYourBest.com Reaches for the Next Level

2009-11-10T09:39:00.000-08:00

LookingYourBest.com, the nationwide reference guide to a Who's Who of America's Plastic and Cosmetic Surgeons, offers more than just a bold new look with its comprehensive re-tooling. It offers an enhanced experience.

The first aspect of the new LookingYourBest.com that will surely catch the eye is the new layout and color scheme. The old, sterile layout with its pastel colors blending out to the window's edge has been supplanted by a sharp, clean page set against a rich chocolate tone, with deep rose accents and a commanding presence. In all the site wears a more focused, sophisticated feel that visitors are sure to appreciate.

The visual changes, however, belie the underlying metamorphosis that now makes it even easier to seek out doctors and procedures by multiple criteria. A simplified menu and site structure are two of the keys to the improved ease of use, despite the addition of even more data than before. LookingYourBest has long been an excellent source for finding and comparing professionals in aesthetic medicine, both locally and nationally. Now, the search function in both the gallery and surgeon areas has been simplified and visitors are treated to informative videos and 3D procedure animations to further enhance their search.

There's an important difference in the underpinnings as well, though a casual visitor may not even notice. Nevertheless, by streamlining the site's code, the programmers at LookingYourBest have sought to improve what is often the most important aspect of a web site; browsing speed. The new LookingYourBest.com loads faster and is more intuitive than ever.

Plastic Surgeon in San Diego, CA

2009-11-09T14:33:00.000-08:00

Any artist will tell you that the differences between a masterpiece and a nice try are quite subtle. Nowhere are extremely minor details as apparent as in portraiture. Perhaps it is because of how hardwired we are to see the slightest differences in the faces around us. The tiniest pull of a muscle can have significant meaning, and most of the time we're not even truly aware of the things we perceive there.

Some people look at plastic surgery as pure science, others as more art. With the aesthetics inherent in so many procedures, those who see art mixed in with the science seem to have a valid point. As Doctor Karam, a board certified surgeon, says about nose surgery in San Diego, "Perhaps no other operation in plastic surgery has a greater impact in enhancing the way you look than rhinoplasty...Even a subtle change can have a big impact on the attractiveness and balance of the face."

Nose Reshaping Can Harmonize Facial Features

2009-11-06T15:58:00.000-08:00

Most people don't realize that the basic techniques for performing cosmetic rhinoplasty (nose reshaping) originated from reconstructive plastic surgery. The first operation closely resembling "modern" cosmetic rhinoplasty was developed by a plastic surgeon in 1845! Since then, many refinements to the technique of nose reshaping have occurred, allowing for the wonderful results we see in cosmetic surgery today.

Stories in the media have claimed that teenagers are flocking to plastic surgeons to have their noses done, but in reality this procedure is performed very selectively. Teenagers who have the physical and emotional maturity for cosmetic surgery may undergo rhinoplasty as early as 14 or 15, or possibly older for boys. There is no upper age limit for rhinoplasty surgery, as long as you are in good health. Nose reshaping is sometimes performed in conjunction with a facelift or other rejuvenative surgery to correct aging changes of the nose such as a drooping tip.

The goal of rhinoplasty, at any age, is a natural-looking nose that achieves a harmonious balance with your other facial features. In the earlier days of rhinoplasty, patients and their surgeons tended to think in terms of an "ideal" nose, and this ideal often varied only slightly from patient to patient. Today, plastic surgeons are sensitive to the unique aesthetics of each individual's appearance. This includes factors such as ethnicity and the strength of other facial features. Some patients are looking for only subtle improvements, while others desire more substantial changes in the appearance of their nose. An important part of your rhinoplasty consultation with your plastic surgeon is the discussion of your personal goals for surgery.

Atlanta, Georgia, Blepharoplasty

2009-11-04T16:22:00.000-08:00

Does the person staring back at you from the mirror appear tired and old? A sight like that can really motivate a body to research ways to make that stop. Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid lift surgery, removes extra skin that droops over the eyes and makes us look tired and aged. No surgery can stop the aging process completely, but the clock can be turned back. Dr. R. Morgan Davoudi, a board certified plastic surgeon, performs eyelid lift procedures in Atlanta, GA.

Discuss your goals with Dr. Davoudi. Our skin loses some of its elasticity as it ages, and it begins to wrinkle, puff, and sag. If the skin droops far enough around the eyes it can impair your vision. As a result, removing some of that skin can improve your vision in addition to giving you a more alert and youthful appearance. Dr. Davoudi most often performs blepharoplasty procedures in Atlanta as an outpatient procedure.

Visible Breast Implant Rippling

2009-11-02T11:24:00.000-08:00

Breast implants, particularly saline-filled implants, can in some patients be seen through the overlying skin and breast tissue. Especially with changes in position, such as leaning forward lying on one’s side, this may be more pronounced. This is more likely to occur under the following conditions:

1. Saline (vs. silicone gel) implants
2. Subglandular (vs. subpectoral) placement of the implant
3. Women with very small pre-operative cup sizes (A or AA)
4. When textured surface implants are used
5. When larger volume implants are used
6. In body builders who often have a low percentage of body fat

The best treatment for visible rippling is to reduce the probability of it occurring by avoiding election of any of the aforementioned options when deciding to undergo the procedure in the beginning. Once it occurs, the treatment involves replacing the implant with a more favorable prosthesis for the patient, and often revising location as well if possible. The specific treatment for any given patient will be developed and discussed by your plastic surgeon during the consultation.

Breast Reconstruction Options

2009-10-30T09:49:00.000-07:00

The circumstances of individual patient can help to decide what is the best method of breast reconstruction that can be used. The goals of breast reconstruction surgery are to re-create a breast which matches the opposite breast, or in bilateral cases, to reconstruct two breasts to the patients’s desired size. During Breast reconstruction surgery. the nipple and areola are also reconstructed. It is recommended that one consult with a plastic surgeon prior to a mastectomy procedure. This allows the Surgeon and his team to plan a treatment that is best suited for each patient, even if the patient decides to wait to have reconstructive surgery at a later time.

Immediate breast reconstruction occurs when reconstruction of the beast is done at the same time as a mastectomy. The immediate reconstruction method has the advantage of usually saving the patient from undergoing at least one subsequent operation, and this has been proven to provide significant psychological benefit, as the patient never has to experience the total loss of a breast.

Delayed breast reconstruction is a beast reconstruction surgery performed at a later date. The Surgeon may recommend this method for some women, especially if radiation to the chest area is required after the mastectomy. Delayed reconstruction is appropriate for some because radiation therapy following breast reconstruction can increase complications after reconstructive surgery.

Rhinoplasty Surgery Procedure Explained

2009-10-28T15:12:00.000-07:00

Rhinoplasty, often referred to as a nose job, is the most commonly performed facial plastic surgery procedure. The procedure, the name of which comes from the Greek words 'rhino,' meaning 'nose,' and 'Plassein,' meaning 'to shape,' is generally performed to improve the appearance of the nose, to correct breathing problems, or for reconstructive purposes.

Originally developed by Sushruta, an Indian physician referred to as the "Father of Surgery," rhinoplasty was originally performed as early as 6th century BC. The original procedure, in which a disfigured nose is repaired using a flap of skin from the forehead, is still practiced today with minimal difference from the original technique. Performed by John Orlando Roe in 1887, the first intranasal procedure was first used for cosmetic purposes by Jacques Joshep in 1898.

Rhinoplasty can help improve a nose that is too wide, too crooked, too short, or too long. Bumps or humps on the nose can be removed. The size, shape, angle, and definition of the nose's tip can also be adjusted. Rhinoplasty can also repair a deviated septum, which can help correct breathing problems caused by such a condition. The procedure will help the patient to have a natural-appearing nose that is balanced to the remainder of the face and adds to the existing beauty of the eyes and lips. The procedure should not be performed until the patient's facial growth and development has completed; generally, that age is 15-16 years old for women and 16-17 years old for men.

If the strength or structure of the nose need strengthening, a small piece of the patients' own cartilage or bone may be used by the plastic surgeon for reinforcement. This may be necessary or helpful for breathing or other functional reasons, or for cosmetic purposes. Synthetic implants may also be used if there is no bone or cartilage to spare, or if the bone and cartilage are already weak or damaged.

After the procedure, a tape dressing will be applied and will cover the nose for one week. Some discoloration and/or swelling may occur around the eyes, but will subside within five to seven days. Most patients return to work and social activities in a week or so.

Breast Augmentation - Philadelphia Surgeon

2009-10-28T12:22:00.000-07:00

Looking into a mirror, do you get discouraged because your breasts are out of proportion with your body, or with each another? Have you been thinking about breast implant surgery? Whatever goals you may have, you want a well-qualified doctor who really knows what he's doing. The right doctor can help you create symmetry, add volume, lift your breasts to a perkier, more youthful position, or even rebuild breasts lost to cancer.

Dr. Louis P. Bucky, board certified plastic surgeon, performs over a thousand reconstructive and cosmetic surgeries a year in Philadelphia, over a hundred fifty of which are breast augmentations. Dr. Bucky is sought-after nationally as a speaker on matters of breast augmentation and breast lift surgery, and he has been recognized as a top doctor in both Philadelphia Magazine Top Docs edition and Castle Connolly's America's Top Doctors annually since 1999.

Breast Augmentation Surgery Explained

2009-10-14T20:58:00.000-07:00

Breast augmentation is a procedure used to enlarge small breasts and create a balance for breasts of different size or proportion. Breast implants are used to add fullness to breasts that have decreased in size or begun to sag due to age or pregnancy.

Breast implant options basically can be narrowed down to two types: silicone gel and saline (or salt water) filled. Most breast enlargement procedures use saline-filled implants; although some situations still warrant the use of silicone gel implants for best results. Recent advantages in implant technologies offer options that create a more natural look than ever before.

It remains that with any elective cosmetic surgery, it is very important for women considering this procedure to be given informed consent. This means that anyone considering having permanent implantation of a medical device is made aware not only of the risks of the operation itself, but also of the lifelong risks of having implants.

Be sure to consult with a plastic surgeon, and do your research to ensure you fully understand the procedure, its risks and what to expect from the surgery. There are many excellent websites offering up information on breast augmentation. The best website I have found in my research is Lookingyourbest.com - a free to use website that provides a great amount of in depth plastic surgery information and there is even a free service to help anyone considering breast augmentation locate a skilled , experienced and qualified plastic surgeon in their area.

Breast Augmentation Is A Life Changing Descision

2009-10-14T14:23:00.001-07:00

Every day, you make decisions that affect the way you live. Some choices depend on the moment, like the clothing, hairstyles and perfume you’ll wear today. Other decisions are deeply significant, because they affect how you feel about yourself as a woman, and how others perceive you. Plastic surgery in Orange County offers a unique opportunity to scientifically "customize" your body rather than just dress it up. You may want to wear an outfit that reveals more cleavage, change your wardrobe style, or simply create the proper balance between your breasts and hips.

Many women young and old, decide to increase the size and/or fullness of their breasts and make them more proportional to the rest of their body. Women of all ages Plastic Surgery in Orange County specialist desiring to enlarge their breasts for a number of reasons. Generally, women that have a genetic pre-disposition toward small breasts tell us that they desire to better fill out their clothes or bathing suits. Women that have lost breast volume after weight loss or breast-feeding typically tell us that they want to regain their breast fullness and/or cleavage. In all these cases, breast augmentation is usually the optimal way to increase your breast size, which can improve the way you look and feel about yourself.

Egg Donation Provides Options for Pregnancy

2009-10-06T12:24:00.000-07:00

Egg donation allows women to become pregnant even when they lack eggs of their own, or their eggs are of poor quality. The technique is most commonly used in women who are unsuccessful after undergoing multiple cycles of in vitro fertilization (IVF), those with premature ovarian failure or elevated FSH levels, and those over the age of forty-three. The combination of young eggs and optimal preparation of both donor and recipient makes egg donation a very successful fertility procedure.

The process of egg donation requires that the components of a single IVF cycle be divided between the donor and the recipient. The donor undergoes the initial steps of IVF, including ovarian stimulation and egg retrieval, and the recipient undergoes the embryo transfer.

Both women's cycles must be synchronized using birth control pills. When the cycle begins, the donor is administered the medications required for egg follicle development, while the recipient takes a combination of estrogen and progesterone to prepare the uterine lining for implantation. Once the donor's eggs are mature, they are retrieved and fertilized in the laboratory.

Typically the embryo transfer is scheduled 3 or 5 days later. The recipient continues to take estrogen and progesterone through the end of the first trimester to mimic the hormones produced by the ovary in natural conception. At the end of the first trimester (twelve weeks gestational age, or approximately ten weeks after embryo transfer), when the placenta is producing enough hormones. Estrogen and progesterone supplementation is stopped.

Two Forms Of Surgery For Post-Partum “Tune-ups”

2009-10-05T14:04:00.000-07:00

The birth of a child is one of the most exciting events in a woman’s life. However, it is often distressing, especially to first-time moms, when their bodies do not spring back into pre-pregnancy shape, often leaving them with sagging breasts, stretched abdomens, and an overall matronly feeling. Motherhood now has a new shape. Thanks to advances in cosmetic surgery, postpartum mothers can now reclaim their bikini bodies faster than ever before. Many women,although ecstatic about newfound motherhood, are riddled with insecurity after childbirth due to excessive weight gain in areas which may not have been troublesome before. Women primarily seek two forms of surgery as post par tum “tune-ups”— abdominoplasty (commonly referred to as a tummy tuck), and breast enhancement surgery(including breast lift and breast augmentation).

Unlike women who are simply overweight, pregnancy puts a certain strain on the body which cannot always be com bated by diet and exercise alone. The midsection of the abdomen can be compared to a girdle, a garment which is composed of an elastic portion which, when stretched, is likely to become one size too big. In the abdominal section,women often lose the desired “girdling” effect after childbirth, which can occur in varying degrees. Pregnancy not only weakens the muscles, but stretches out the connective tissue, which for most women will not revert to original form on its own. A tummy tuck not only targets excess skin, but also works to re tighten the connective tissue so that the abdominal wall reacts to give the waistline a desirable indentation. Without tightening the connective tissue and exerting a girdling effect on intra-abdominal contents, women cannot achieve their pre-pregnancy appearance.

As with any surgical procedure, it is important that anyone considering a plastic or cosmetic procedure do their research and consult with a qualified and skilled surgeon such as Newport Beach Plastic Surgeon Dr Ackerman. Be sure to have all your questions answered and you fully understand the chosen procedure prior to having the surgery. There are numerous websites out there that provide good information about plastic surgery. The best one I have found is lookingyourbest.com. This free website offers a wealth of detailed and accurate plastic surgery information and even offers a free service to help those wanting plastic surgery locate an experienced and qualified surgeon in their area.

Santa Monica, CA, Brow Lift Surgery

2009-10-02T09:03:00.000-07:00

Brow lift surgery is performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia or monitored sedation. The incisions are generally made behind the hairline, but for those with high foreheads, the incisions can be placed in front of the hairline. The operation is done using a narrow hollow instrument called an endoscope with a fiber optic light source and camera, through which the procedure is done with small special instruments. The forehead skin is then lifted and repositioned.

If your eyebrows hang too low or too close to your eyes, or your forehead is sagging, you may have been thinking about forehead or brow lift surgery. Any surgery carries potential risk, so you want to know all you can about the advantages and disadvantages before going forward. Discuss your browlift in Santa Monica with Dr. Steven Teitelbaum, one of the top aesthetic surgeons in the United States.

Breast Implant Surgery in Manhattan, New York

2009-09-21T13:40:00.000-07:00

If you have been giving thought to a breast implant procedure in Manhattan New York and find yourself needing "a doctor who listens to your concerns, educates you about the surgical outcome that can realistically be achieved, and won't rush you through the consultation or plastic surgery decision-making process, Eric Sadeh, MD might be the right plastic surgeon for you."

The risk of complication is simply a part of any surgery, and being properly informed prior to your breast implant procedure is the best plan. There's no such thing as a risk-free surgery. You want a doctor who will work together with you to minimize risk of complication by ensuring you know all you can.

Is Mastopexy the Right Fit for You?

2009-09-15T13:46:00.000-07:00

The passage of time is unkind to the body. We spend our youth as though we'll always have nubile young physiques. Then we grow up and before you know it things reposition themselves a bit lower. It seems cruel for life to let the firmness out of a woman's breasts when she loses weight or has children, or simply has the nerve to get older.

Modern science provides at least a little bit of a reprieve from the southward migration. A breast lift, or mastopexy, tightens and lifts by removing some of the extra skin which has allowed the breast tissue to descend. By tightening up the skin, and occasionally adding implants for volume, the breasts are lifted to a more youthful, pleasing position.

Mastopexy, like any surgery, has its share of both risks and rewards, and is not right for everyone, since the longevity of results varies. A consultation with an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon such as Dr. Manjit Brar of Vancouver Washington can help you decide what course of action best suits you and the reaching of your goals.

Lasers Mean No More Shaving - Florida

2009-08-20T14:12:00.001-07:00

I think it's safe to say that whether body hair is defined as excessive or not varies as widely as the body types and people to whom the definition can apply, and who's doing the defining... For those who are pleased with the hair they wear, it's not a concern, really. For the rest it can range from a minor nuisance to a serious problem. Well imagine never having to shave, tweez, wax, pluck, or epilate again. Sound good? Lasers can remove unwanted body hair much more permanently than any blade ever could.

Miami, Florida, Dr. Sam Gershenbaum of the Aventura Center for Cosmetic Surgery and Hair Restoration uses lasers solve the problem of unwanted hair. He targets the laser and disables the follicles in areas where unwanted hair grows. Zappo! With minimal discomfort ("like a rubber band snap"), hair is safely and effectively removed, leaving soft, smooth skin. Virtually any area (except around the eyes) can be treated.

Considering Breast Augmentation in Manhattan

2009-08-11T14:26:00.000-07:00

Are you seeking a board certified plastic surgeon in Manhattan for breast augmentation or mastopexy (breast lift)? Dr. Robert M. Tornambe M.D., F.A.C.S., has been listed in New York Magazine's "The Best Doctors in New York" and is currently the Chief of the Division of Plastic Surgery at Cabrini Medical Center in New York City.

Dr. Tornambe's Madison Plastic Surgery operates the AAAAPSF-accredited, ultra-modern Madison Care facility, which was designed with plastic surgery patients in mind. It is there that most of Madison Plastic Surgery's patients undergo procedures ranging from Skin Rejuvenation to Liposuction.

"Many of our patients undergo breast augmentation in an effort to enhance their body contour, to correct a reduction in breast volume after pregnancy or to balance different sized breasts. We always stress to our patients, however, that breast augmentation should be done for her only and not for her husband or boyfriend. It is your body and the decision for breast augmentation should be yours as well."

When considering breast enhancement in Manhattan, it is important to have all the information you can. Always choose a plastic surgeon who is qualified.

Combat skin redness and uneven tone!

2009-05-07T10:49:00.000-07:00

Sometimes a patient's main skin problem is redness, facial veins or blotchy hyperpigmentation in otherwise healthy skin. A solution to these problems can be a series of Photofacials using the Cutera Xeo. These treatments are also an excellent, easy procedure to gently stimulate collagen fiber contracture and formation to tighten skin and reduce pore size. Read More about this Skin Rejuvenation Treatment.

As with all cosmetic and plastic procedures, it is recommended one do thorough research about his or her chosen procedure, and ensure you understand the procedure completely. Websites dedicated to providing accurate plastic surgery information can be a big help. One website I have visited many times in the course of my research is lookingyourbest.com- they have an excellent and extensive library full of information on the full scope of plastic/cosmetic and reconstructive surgery procedures. This website also offers a free service to help you locate a skilled, experienced board certified surgeon and can even assist in setting up the consultation.

2009-05-06T10:42:00.000-07:00

When you spend your time working with plastic surgery information, researching and picking out the best gems to share with other, you occasionally discover gold. While recently doing some additional research for a piece on Liposuction surgery in San Francisco, I discovered what is probably the most professional, down to earth and realistic plastic surgeon I have ever seen. I was able to contact this surgeon and get him to say a few things about himself for the world to see. His Name is Dr Frank Piro, a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in San Francisco.

Trouble Spots on your Body? Lasers Can Help!

2009-04-29T12:19:00.000-07:00

More than 80% of women over the age of 20 are affected by cellulite and/or loose, sagging skin on the body. Most of us know that diet and exercise, while a great start, don’t always handle the stubborn areas of our body that just don’t seem to want to tighten up! It doesn’t matter what your weight or size is, if you inherited your moms love handles or saddle bags, or if your metabolism is a bit sluggish, these ‘trouble spots’ can be challenging to say the least…The Accent XL laser is an effective treatment for improving these symptoms as well as loose skin and excess joweling of the face and neck.

The FDA approved Accent XL uses two forms of radio frequency, each penetrating to a specific depth so to affect both the fatty tissue and cellulite. By heating to both these depths we are able to improve circulation, stimulate collagen production, initiate a breakdown of fibrous tissue and promote the re-absorption and drainage of retained fluids and toxins. The result is a decrease in volume and size of the site with smoother, firmer skin that has been tightened and recontoured creating a more youthful, refreshed appearance. Depending on the patients needs, whether it be to treat cellulite and fat or to tighten sagging skin, the doctor will choose the best frequency for you

Before allowing any surgery or cosmetic procedure performed, you should always do your research. Consult with an Experienced specialist such as Dr Karyn Grossman in Santa Monica. Make sure you have all your questions answered and you understand the procedure completely before taking the plunge. Many great websites provide a wealth of plastic surgery information for further research.

My Nightmare- How Rhinoplasty Changed my Life

2009-04-28T14:51:00.000-07:00

In 1997, my car was hit by a drunk driver as I exited the 101 freeway in California. I was injured pretty badly, as my face was smashed against the drivers window, breaking the glass. After months of recovering, my face seemed to heal very nicely, however my nose was horribly crooked and the tip actually pointed to the left.

Before the accident I was a prominent sportscaster on cable TV. Since the accident I had not been able to land any work. After much thought I had decided that it was the shape of my nose that was the root of my problem. I decided to see if there was something, anything that someone could do to help me restore a natural look and flow to my face. After much research I decided that the only answer was surgery. As much as I had disliked the idea of plastic surgery, I now felt this was the only real solution.

I found this great site that has a ton of plastic surgery information, and I located a board certified plastic surgeon in my area. I scheduled my consultation and hooped for the best. One week later, during my consultation with this surgeon, I realized that there is a lot more to plastic surgery than I had previously known. This isn't surgery for vain people have to try and beat the age clock, or to look good on camera. Plastic and cosmetic surgery is also helpful for fixing deformities and helping to restore confidence and a natural look to the face and/or body.

The Doctor discussed my nose shape, the events that caused the deformity and what results I expected from the rhinoplasty surgery. The Surgeon then showed me a book full of before and after pictures of Nose surgeries. The results were astonishing. I made the choice to have the surgery and the night before surgery I prayed that this really was the answer i was looking for.

2 months after the surgery my nose has healed and I cannot believe how natural it looks. The doctor did such a good job, I think he actually made me look younger in the process. I can also breathe freely and clearly now. I am getting more work offered to me than I can accept, most of it based upon my head shot photo alone. I would highly recommend to anyone looking to improve the shape of their nose . If this surgery can help me, it can help anyone.

Plastic Surgery Q&A - Breast Enhancement

2009-04-27T10:30:00.000-07:00

My wife wants larger breasts, but does not want to use silicone implants due to the possible dangers. Are there any other options?

There are now three types of implants, the first being a saline filled implant which very safe for use as it is filled with a saltwater solution called Saline. If a Saline filled breast implant ruptures, the salt water solution is absorbed by the body.

The second and third types are both silicone based- the first of these is the standard silicone filled breast implant. The FDA called for restrictions on use of the original silicone filled implant so the safety of this device could be determined. The ban has since been lifted, and the fact remains that the original silicone breast implant is relatively safe to use. However, these implants can rupture, and the silicone can leak out of the the implant. A ruptured silicone filled implant requires surgery to clear the leaking silicone and replace the implant. This is what I assume your wife wants to avoid, and thus the reason she does not want to use this type of implant.

The third type of implant is the revolutionary 410 style Cohesive Gel or "Gummy Bear" implant. The gummy bear implant is silicone based, but the difference is in the physical make-up of the implant. The Cohesive Gel is firmer, yet still natural feeling. In case of a rupture, the Cohesive Gel will not leak or run. This is achieved during the manufacturing process by adding additional "Cross linker", which causes the Silicone to become firmer. In fact, when a Gummy Bear implant is cut in half, the implant does not leak, or come apart - the gel remains intact.

I recommend consulting with a board certified and experienced specialist, such as Orange County plastic surgeon Dr Dan Mills. Be sure to have all you questions answered. Ensure you do your research and learn all you can about your breast procedure. There are plenty of plastic surgery information resources available online.

I Found some Excellent Informational Blogs on the Internet- Check these Out!

2009-04-23T14:47:00.000-07:00

In my surfing travels I have complied a list of some really good blogs about cosmetic and plastic surgery. Let's Discuss these Shall we?

Rhinoplasty Resources

Southern California Plastic Surgery Resources

Plastic Surgery in Washington

Surgery Resources Honolulu, Hawaii

Breast Surgery Resources in Arizona

Cosmetic Surgery Resources

Pasandena Surgery Resources

Dermatology Resources

Waterford Plastic Surgery

Chicago Illinois Surgery Resources

Facial Surgery Information

Texas Plastic Surgeon Resources

Cosmetic Surgeon Resources in Southern California

Facial Rejuvenation Resources

Breast Surgery in Hawaii

Breast Surgery Specialist

Plastic Surgeon Resources Michigan

Breast Surgeon in Atlanta

Liposuction Surgery Resources

Cosmetic Surgeon Resources San Jose

Female Plastic Surgeons in Los Angeles

Breast Reduction Resources

Face Lift Surgery Information

Hair Transplant Resources in Hawaii

Plastic Surgery in Southern California

Breast Surgery Information

Breast Enhancement Resources Illinois

Nose Surgery Information

Surgery Resources in Kentucky

Cosmetic Surgery Information Chicago

Breast implant Surgery Resources

Body Contouring Resources Valencia

Female Plastic Surgeon Information

Plastic Surgery in Anaheim, CA

Breast Augmentation Resources

Fertility Information Southern California

Plastic Surgery in Newport Beach

Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery Resources Seattle

Fetility Resources in Santa Monica, CA

Hawaii Plastic Surgeon Resources

Cosmetic Surgery Information Newport Beach, CA

Breast Reconstruction Information San Francisco

Rhinoplasty Can Reduce Or Increse The Size Of Your Nose, And Change Its Shape

2009-04-21T10:47:00.000-07:00

My sister has had an abnormally large nose for her whole life and she has wanted to have surgery done to fix it for a long time but she has not had enough money to do so. Now that she has the money for a nose surgery she realized that she has no idea how they work or how safe they are. We searched online and found a site called Beverlyhillsphysicians.com and that site taught us about Rhinoplasty and how it "is the most intricate cosmetic surgery performed today. Rhinoplasty can reduce or increase the size of your nose, change the shape of the tip or the bridge, narrow the span of the nostrils, or change the angle between your nose and your upper lip." As we read more and more my sister kept getting more excited and finally she came to the conclusion that this is what she wanted to do and now she had no doubts in the procedure.

Laser Hair Removal Can Permanently Remove Hair From Anywhere On Your Body

2009-04-16T11:40:00.000-07:00

A few months ago my girlfriend told me that she believed she had too much visible hair on her arms and legs and it bugged her. I told her that there are ways of permanently getting rid of that hair in places she doesn't want it to be. She had never heard of this type of thing before so I showed her the website that I first learned about it. Plasticsurgeryinsandiego.com taught me about Laser Hair Removal and when I showed this to her she was so excited that she set up an appointment to receive her own Laser Hair Removal procedure that same week. Now that she has had the procedure done and the hair is now gone from her legs and arms, she is very happy with the results.

Thigh And Buttock Lifts Can Bring A More Proportioned Look To Your Body

2009-04-14T11:06:00.000-07:00

My sister has always wanted a thigh and buttock lift because she feels that her buttocks is not proportionate to the rest of her body. Though she wanted it really bad, it could never happen because we had no idea how it worked or how safe it was. We searched online for a solution and found a website called Nabavian.com and on that site in their "Thigh and Buttock Lift" section we learned that "A thigh and buttock lift can help such individuals restore a thinner and fitter looking contour to their bodies. The buttocks are made smaller to better match the body of the patient." We also learned that there have been many people who have had this procedure for the same reason that my sister wants it. Their success stories were plenty for her to be willing to go through with it; and now 4 months later, my sister is very happy with the results.

Chemical Peels Can Improve The Quality Of The Skin

2009-04-08T12:17:00.000-07:00

As long as I have known my neighbor she has had pigment problems with her skin, but then we found out about Chemical Peels from the smithplasticsurgery.com website and there we learned about how "Chemical peels or treatments have been used for many years to improve the quality of the skin." We also learned that thousands of chemical peels are preformed each year and the existing risk factors all have a very low chance of happening. My neighbor decided to get that procedure and now is very impressed with the results

Lip Augmentation Can Help Your Entire Face Look Younger

2009-03-31T13:25:00.000-07:00

Aging has caused my mom's lips to get thinner due to diminishing levels of collagen in her skin. She used to be very prideful of how her lips used to look, but it makes her very sad to know that they are slowly changing. She did not want this to be reality so she decided that now was the time for her to do something about her lips to give them more volume. Although she knew that there are some plastic surgery procedures that can fix this problem she had, she did not know where to start. She asked me to help her find a solution and I helped her to browse the internet. We found a website called www.beverlyhillsphysicians.com and on this site we learned about Lip Augmentation and how it "can also make your entire face look younger by reducing the appearance of wrinkles around the mouth." My mom was very excited by this, a youthful looking face was once again within her reach. She decided to go through with this procedure and is now very happy with the results

High Lateral Tension Abdominoplasty

2009-03-17T12:31:00.000-07:00

The Abdominoplasty procedure (Tummy Tuck) was developed by plastic surgeons in order to treat skin looseness and stretch marks that developed with age, after pregnancy, and with weight fluctuation. Typically, the procedure involved removal of loose lower abdominal skin up to and above the level of the umbilicus (belly button) and tightening of the abdominal muscles in the midline. A small surgical incision was created in the upper abdominal skin when it is pulled down to the level of the umbilical stalk. In order to remove the lower abdominal skin to the level of the belly button, surgeons elevated the upper abdominal skin and fat off the muscle fascia up to the level of the lower costal (rib) margins.

Because older abdominoplasty techniques emphasized removing the largest amount of lower abdominal skin in the midline, and removing the skin that surrounded the (umbilicus) belly button, these procedures often produced an unnatural appearing abdomen with scars that were too close to the umbilicus. Insistence on complete removal of the abdominal skin around the umbilicus is often a cosmetic error, which produced unnaturally high abdominal scars.

Older techniques of abdominoplasty also produced wide scars with depressions that resulted because the deep tissue of the surgical incision was closed with absorbable sutures.

The High Lateral Tension Abdominoplasty was developed by plastic surgeon Dr. Ted Lockwood to create a more natural and aesthetically pleasing abdominal appearance as a result of abdominoplasty surgery. The HLT Abdominoplasty is noted or the following features:

Emphasis on lateral lower abdominal skin excess excision and post surgical skin tension
Reliance on the strength of the superfascial system for incision closure and optimization of scar.
Limited undermining of upper abdominal skin/soft tissue flaps, which preserves abdominal flap blood supply and allows for liposuction of the abdominal region without compromising skin viability.
De-emphasis on removing all skin up to, around, and above the umbilicus.
Liposuction to treat upper and lateral abdominal and flank fat deposits.

Because abdominal skin and tissue laxity are greater on the sides of the abdomen, and away from the midline, treatment of laxity in these regions is paramount to obtaining better results with abdominoplasty. With the HLT Abdominoplasty, lateral tension is emphasized because tissue laxity increases from the midline to the sides of the trunk with age and/or with weight fluctuation Therefore, the emphasis of skin removal and tightening is shifted from the midline to the sides of the lower abdominal skin and soft tissue.

The Superficial Facial System (SFS) is a connective tissue layer interlaced with the subcutaneous fat that lies between the deep dermis and abdominal fascia. Closure of the deep layers of fat with permanent braided nylon sutures integrates the strength of the (SFS) in the resulting abdominoplasty incision. The permanent stitches, which secure the deep layers of fat surrounded by the SFS, create a durable narrow scar and prevent a "ledge" effect that occurs when absorbable stitches are used on the deep fat layers. The muscles of the abdominal wall are sutured to treat muscle laxity and create an internal corset. The belly button position is transposed.

Liposuction is performed with the High Lateral Tension Abdominoplasty for additional abdominal contour improvement in appropriately selected patients. The combination of liposuction and HLT abdominoplasty gives results that surpass those obtained by either procedure alone. Liposuction of the upper and lateral abdomen improves appearance and often allows the contour of the upper abdomen to show definition where it did not exist before. Not only is the abdomen tightened with this technique, but the anterior thigh is also lifted as well. These features are unique to the High Lateral Tension abdominoplasty technique, and are not as readily achieved (if at all) with traditional abdominoplasty techniques.

High Lateral Tension Abdominoplasty may be performed with liposuction of the back and flank regions. In these cases, the operation becomes one of Total Truncal Rejuvenation as the contour of the entire torso addressed in one operation.

It is always highly recommended that you consult with a specialist such as Indianapolis, Indiana Plastic Surgeon Dr David Slatton before any surgery procedure. Be sure to have all your questions answered and you understand the procedure fully prior to any surgical procedure.

Chin Augmenation Can Help You Achieve Facial Balance

2009-03-04T13:40:00.000-08:00

If you consider your chin small, you may benefit from surgery. Having a larger (or "stronger") chin can help balance one's appearance, creating equal weight in the upper, middle, and lower thirds of the face. It can offset the prominence of a large or even medium-sized nose. Enlarging the chin can also make the neck look longer and more graceful, and this can be a helpful addition to a facelift when there is blunting of the angle between lower neck and the under-chin region.

Restore a Youthful Vibrancy with a Face Lift

2009-03-04T13:03:00.000-08:00

A face lift can help such individuals restore youthful vibrance and energy to the face. The effects of time are virtually undone to restore an individual's face and to remove many of the effects of time and aging. A plastic surgeon accomplishes such effects by working with wrinkles, tightening the skin, removing fat deposits, and by tightening the underlying muscles of the face. This not only helps to restore the physical appearance of the patient, but also restores self-confidence and respect to the patient.

What Is A Primary Rhinoplasty?

2009-03-04T12:35:00.000-08:00

Primary rhinoplasty indicates that it is the first time an operation is being performed. The first operation offers the best opportunity to obtain an excellent and predictable outcome. Seeking out a rhinoplasty specialist for this first operation significantly increases the chances of obtaining an excellent rhinoplasty result and decreases your chances of a revision.

The Best Candidates for Breast Augmentation

2009-03-04T12:11:00.000-08:00

The best candidates for breast augmentation are woman who wish to enhance their size or want to enhance their figure. Also many women have lost breast volume due to pregnancy, weight loss, or aging. A woman who has an asymmetry of the sizes of their breasts often wishes to receive a breast augmentation as well as women who are looking to beautify the shape of their breasts.

Brachioplasty Removes "Bat-Wings"

2009-03-04T11:32:00.000-08:00

An arm lift or brachioplasty is the surgical correction of excess skin to the arms. Over time, with pregnancy, weight loss or even during normal development, excess skin to the upper arms (bat-wings) can develop compelling women to seek correction.

How Laser Hair Removal Works

2009-03-04T11:08:00.000-08:00

The hair removal laser emits a gentle beam of light that passes through the skin and is absorbed by the hair follicle. The absorbed laser energy is transformed into heat, destroying the hair follicle and leaving the surrounding skin unaffected.

What is Immediate Breast Reconstruction?

2009-03-04T10:18:00.000-08:00

Immediate breast reconstruction occurs when reconstruction is performed at the time of mastectomy. Immediate reconstruction has the advantage of usually saving the patient at least one subsequent operation, and has been shown to have a significant psychological benefit, as the patient never has to experience the total loss of a breast. All of the reconstruction options listed below can be performed at the time of mastectomy.

Do Your Breasts Live Up to Standards?

2009-03-02T15:40:00.000-08:00

In today's world many woman feel their breasts don't live up to standards, or are not big enough. With this belief there is only one solution. Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that uses implants to refine the shape and size of the breasts. Recently, the FDA has lifted the restriction on the use of silicone implants allowing patients the choice between silicone and saline breast augmentation. Breast augmentation has seen a dramatic increase in popularity over the past three or four years, a testimony to the high satisfaction rate that most women give to the results of the surgery.

Fill Sunken Cheeks with a Fat Transfer

2009-02-27T14:39:00.000-08:00

In the medical world, the fat-injection procedure is known as autologous fat transplantation or microlipoinjection. It involves extracting fat cells from the patient's abdomen, thighs, buttocks or elsewhere and reinjecting them beneath the facial skin. Fat is most often used to fill in "sunken" cheeks or laugh lines between the nose and mouth, to correct skin depressions or indentations, to minimize forehead wrinkles and to enhance the lips.

Tummy Tuck Surgery Has Little Risk

2009-02-27T14:26:00.000-08:00

Thousands of abdominoplasties are performed successfully each year. When done by a qualified plastic surgeon who is trained in body contouring, the results are generally quite positive. Nevertheless, there are always risks associated with surgery and specific complications associated with this procedure.

Body Contouring can Return a Part of You That Has Faded

2009-02-27T13:31:00.000-08:00

Liposuction is one of the most frequently performed procedures. Localized fat pockets, resistant to exercise and diet, can be eliminated. The areas of the body of such accumulated fat pockets often include the hips, thighs, abdomen, neck , arms, and breasts. The best candidates are near normal weight people with elastic skin who desire an improved contour change. This procedure is usually performed under general or local anesthesia on an outpatient basis. The incisions are placed in specific areas to provide the optimal contouring and aesthetic result. A fitted compression garment will be worn for about 3 to 4 weeks. Activity may be resumed in about 3 weeks and the final results will be apparent in about 3 months.

Re-Establish a Youthful Looking Breast

2009-02-27T13:21:00.000-08:00

When performing breast augmentation surgery by itself, it takes great skill to place an implant correctly and achieve wonderful results. Similarly, it takes great skill to appropriately carry out a breast lift procedure by itself and re-establish a youthful looking breast. However, both of these operations have certain, relatively low levels of unpredictability when they are carried out by themselves. Unpredictability in plastic surgery originates from multiple factors, such as, individual wound healing factors, age, hormones and techniques used. When breast lifts are combined with implant placement the variables that contribute to unpredictability are multiplied several fold. Increased unpredictability sometimes makes it more difficult to achieve good results.

Blepharoplasty: The Surgery

2009-02-27T12:35:00.000-08:00

Typically the incisions follow the natural lines of your eyelids; in the creases of your upper lids, and just below the lashes in the lower lids. The eyelid surgery incisions may extend into the crow's feet or laugh lines at the outer corners of your eyes. Working through these incisions, the surgeon separates the skin from underlying fatty tissue and muscle, removes excess fat, and often trims sagging skin and muscle. The incisions are then closed with very fine sutures.

Who Does Gynecomastia Affect?

2009-02-26T14:52:00.000-08:00

Gynecomastia is a medical term that comes from the Greek words for "women-like breasts." Though this oddly named condition is rarely talked about, it's actually quite common. Gynecomastia affects an estimated 40 to 60 percent of men. It may affect only one breast or both.

Are you a Good Candidate for a Threadlift?

2009-02-26T14:36:00.000-08:00

The ThreadLift™ is a non-surgical facelift procedure. ThreadLift™ candidates include all those individuals with aging signs of the face, including droopiness of the skin of the brow, cheeks, jowls and neck. Patients whose faces are very heavy or very thin are not ideal candidates.

The ThreadLift™ is a minimally invasive office procedure performed under local anesthetic that is designed to elevate, reposition and lift lax skin of the brow, face and neck without surgery. It is a combination of several "thread" techniques (Aptos, Featherlift, looplift, Wofflelift) that have been used throughout Europe in the past decade to achieve maximum aesthetic effects with minimal recovery. The ThreadLift™ employs non-surgical "cogged" threads and sutures that have been used for decades in cardiac, abdominal, neuro and plastic surgery. The ThreadLift™ works by having these tiny threads inserted painlessly under the skin. These fine threads are similar to those that would be used to support the deep structures of your face if you were to receive a real surgical facelift. Using local anesthetic, the threads are passed into the droopy facial element with a special guide needle. The threads are then able to grab on to the droopy soft-tissue and muscle of the desired area. The ThreadLift™ is done without general anesthesia, a knife, scars or significant recovery. Most patients experience minimal bruising or swelling for 1-7 days. The ThreadLift™ is not painful and most patients can return to normal activities with makeup the next day. The threads stay where they are inserted and, like all internal sutures, are generally well tolerated by the body. The threads and their effects are removable, reliable, and reversible.

A Chin Implant Can Produce a Dramatic Improvement in Facial Profile and Balance

2009-02-26T14:12:00.000-08:00

Cheek implants are inserted through small incisions on the inside of the upper lip, which heal in approximately one week. A relatively minor procedure, cheek implants may be placed using only local anesthesia or with deeper sedation for patient comfort. Most implants are constructed from solid silicone, which adheres to the underlying bone and is very difficult to feel. While rare, complications may include infection or displacement of the implant requiring removal or repositioning. Over the years the art and science of facial contouring with cheek implants has evolved significantly, and there are many different styles and shapes to choose from. A successful outcome requires choosing the right size and shape of implant, and then placing that implant in the right location.

Remove the "Dimpled" Cellulite Look on your Thighs with a Thigh Lift

2009-02-26T13:28:00.000-08:00

Are you self-conscious about the way your thighs look? Is there excessive, loose skin that hangs or shakes when you walk? A thigh lift is a popular choice for those looking for sleeker, tighter legs. Imagine being able to wear shorts again!

A thigh lift has many benefits. The goals of the thigh lift is to remove the "dimpled" cellulite look on your thighs, and reduce excess skin of the inner and outer thigh areas.

Depending upon your health and desired results, a thigh lift is often times most successful when combined with another procedure. If there are large amounts of excess tissue in your thighs, liposuction can also be performed for better results to sculpt your upper legs. Likewise, thighs and buttocks are often in the same condition and performing a buttocks lift may help to achieve your goals.

The thigh lift is an outpatient procedure that requires minimal anesthesia. Recovery usually takes between one and two weeks before painless and unrestricted movement returns. Incisions are usually hidden in the crease of the groin, and therefore adequate rest is necessary to speed recovery and decrease scarring.

Get Rid of Wrinkles with Skin Tightening

2009-02-26T12:07:00.000-08:00

The demand for non-invasive procedures for skin tightening and wrinkle reduction is increasing. Light-based therapies alone have limited efficacy due to the absorption of light by epidermal melanin and limited dermal remodeling.

To meet the demand for safe, non-invasive procedures for the treatment of photo-damaged skin, a variety of light-based therapies have been developed. Although results are less impressive than those of surgical facelifts, adverse effects are few and post-treatment recovery time is short. For example, the use of non-ablative, infrared (IR) lasers with skin-surface cooling has been explored as a stimulus for dermal remodeling and clinical improvement of wrinkles with few adverse effects.

A major limitation of light-based therapies is that optical energy is absorbed by epidermal melanin, thus limiting the depth of light penetration, particularly in patients with dark skin. Another limitation is wrinkles respond minimally to this treatment because collagen contains no chromophores to absorb the light.

To overcome these drawbacks, selective electro-thermolysis, in which electrical energy from radiofrequency (RF) current selectively heats target tissue without damaging the epidermis, has been introduced. RF current placed on the skin penetrates the epidermis and moves to tissues that offer high electrical conductivity. Since conductivity varies inversely with temperature, cooling the epidermis guides the RF current to deeper tissues which, when pre-heated, has higher conductivity and thus a greater probability of receiving the RF current. The amount of heat generated in the pre-heated tissue varies with the tissue’s resistance (impedance) to the RF current.

Today a Variety of Options are Available for the Management of Pterygium

2009-02-26T11:43:00.000-08:00

Pterygium usually refers to a benign growth of the conjunctiva. A pterygium commonly grows from the nasal side of the sclera. It is associated with, and thought to be caused by ultraviolet-light exposure (e.g. sunlight), low humidity, and dust. The predominance of pterygia on the nasal side is possibly a result of the sun's rays passing laterally through the cornea where it undergoes refraction and becomes focused on the limbic area. Sunlight passes unobstructed from the lateral side of the eye, focusing on the medial limbus after passing through the cornea. On the contralateral side, however, the shadow of the nose medially reduces the intensity of sunlight focused on the lateral/temporal limbus.

Today a variety of options are available for the management of Pterygium, from β-irradiation, to conjunctival auto-grafting or amniotic membrane transplantation, along with glue and suture application. As it is a benign growth, Pterygium typically does not require surgery unless it grows to such an extent that it covers the pupil, obstructing vision or presents with acute symptoms. Some of the irritating symptoms can be addressed with artificial tears. However, no reliable medical treatment exists to reduce or even prevent pterygium progression. Definitive treatment is achieved only by surgical removal. Long-term follow up is required as pterygium may recur even after complete surgical correction.

If there is recurrence after surgery or if recurrence of pterygium is thought to be vision threatening, it is possible to use strontium (90Sr) plaque therapy. 90Sr is a radioactive substance that produces beta particles which penetrate a very short distance into the cornea at the site of the operation. It suppresses the regrowth of blood vessels that occur with return of the pterygium. The treatment requires some local anaesthetic in the eye and is best done at the time of, or on the same day as the pterygium excision.

Dr Jain Answers Questions About IVF and The California Octuplets

2009-02-26T09:32:00.000-08:00

There has been intense international reaction to the birth of octuplets by a Southern California woman. While the details are not fully available, it appears that several frozen embryos were transferred to the uterus of a 33 year old woman resulting in the birth of 8 infants. Dr. Jain has been interviewed by news agencies from around the globe for his comments and perspective. The following is a summary of the most common questions and excerpts from his interviews:

Who qualifies for in-vitro fertilization?

There are no set qualifications for in-vitro fertilization services. Patients should be assessed for medical, psychological and social well-being. Unique to the specialty of fertility is the health and welfare of the unborn child or children. I try to educate and counsel my patients and make a responsible decision in partnership with the intended parents.

Since this young, single woman lives at home and already has 6 children from in-vitro, is it ethical to help her have more?

It is not my role to dictate how many children a person can have. However, since she represents a situation well outside the norm, I would have recommended psychological evaluation and evaluation of her social situation prior to assisting her with additional pregnancies.

Are fertility services regulated? As a result of this case, will there be more regulations?

There are no specific regulations dictating the practice of infertility. The American Society of Reproductive Medicine has created practice guidelines based on scientific evidence that aid practitioners in the safe and effective provision of fertility services. Most fertility doctors follow these guidelines responsibly. The case presented here is an exception and should not be used as the basis for wide-sweeping rules and regulations. Patients should not be fearful that such rogue behavior is common.

Are there guidelines on how many embryos should be transferred?

In general, for women under the age of 35, no more than 2 high-quality fresh embryos or 3 frozen embryos should be transferred. These guidelines exist to prevent multiple pregnancies which carry with them significant risk for premature birth and life long disability or death. The apparent transfer of at least 6 frozen embryos was well above the standard. I am uncertain why they were not transferred in smaller groups of 2 or 3. As a result, both the mother and the children were put at great risk.

What will happen to the fertility doctor? Will the doctor lose his/her license?

We have Medical Boards for this very purpose. They will no doubt investigate this case, gather all the facts, and determine whether sanctions are warranted. The doctor may be put on probation or have his medical license revoked.

It is important to consult with a specialist like Santa Monica Fertility Specialist Doctor John Jain, MD. Be sure to have all your questions answered and ensure you understand the egg freezing process prior to undergoing Egg Freezing and Fertility treatments.

GENETIC TESTING OF EGGS PRIOR TO FREEZING COULD BE DETRIMENTAL

2009-02-26T09:17:00.000-08:00

Eggs are more prone to genetic abnormalities as a woman ages. These abnormalities lead to increased incidences of infertility, miscarriage and birth defects especially in women over 38 years of age. Egg freezing is a method that suspends egg aging. Since the genetic status of an egg cannot be determined solely on appearance, methods to evaluate eggs using genetic probes have developed and recently tested.

The egg discards DNA at two different times during its development, ovulation and fertilization. The reason for this is to reduce the number of chromosomes to 23 in order to match the 23 chromosomes delivered by the sperm. The discarded DNA (in the form of excess chromosomes) is jettisoned outside of the egg as a small, round pocket called the polar body. Removal of the polar body (biopsy) can provide useful information about the genetic status of the egg. For example, if 23 chromosomes are found in the polar body, the presumption is that a normal count of 23 chromosomes remains in the egg. In contrast, if a number other than 23 is found in the polar body, it implies that an abnormal count remains in the egg and suggests that the egg and ensuing embryo will be genetically abnormal.

Testing of the polar body using modern genetic techniques such as Comparative Genomic Hybridization (CGH) or Array-CGH, allows identification of abnormal eggs and can thus help determine the number of genetically normal eggs a woman has to freeze.

However, there are several important limitations to this technology. First, CGH and Array-CGH are still considered experimental, with very little clinical data available. Most clinical data is based on young egg donors and does not reflect the genetic status of eggs from women in their late 30’s.

Second, embryos may be genetically abnormal due to mistakes contributed by the egg at the time of the first polar body formation or the second polar body formation; or mistakes contributed by the sperm at the time of fertilization. Therefore, assessing only the first polar body by no means guarantees that a normal embryo will derive. Third, and perhaps most concerning, is the lack of research regarding the effects of biopsying an egg prior to freezing.

We recently completed a small clinical trial wherein we performed polar body biopsy on eggs prior to freezing. We found a high degree of egg damage. The panel of microscopic pictures above demonstrate these changes: the first picture is a normal egg with an intact first polar body (Photo #1); the next picture is an egg after the polar body was removed (Photo #2); the next two pictures show a biopsied egg after freezing and thawing demonstrating egg contents (Photos #3 & #4) extruding through the biopsy slit. These changes were found on multiple eggs from different patients. These eggs had to be discarded. In addition, many other eggs demonstrated abnormal chromosome segregation after fertilization, and none of the patients achieved a pregnancy.

We vitrified these eggs using a closed container to protect the eggs from viral or fungal contamination. This closed container method, used at the Egg Freezing Center, is currently being tested for FDA approval. Other vitrification methods (open container) expose eggs directly to liquid nitrogen and can lead to contamination. For this reason, the method in use at Egg Freezing Center, and the data presented here is very relevant for patients contemplating fertility preservation and genetic testing.

It is my recommendation that women contemplating egg freezing should not undergo genetic testing of their eggs prior to freezing, but rather use these promising technologies to test eggs in the future once they are fertilized as embryos and have all possible egg-derived and sperm-derived abnormalities present for detection.

Improve Your Nose Aesthetically

2009-02-25T14:30:00.000-08:00

It is important to have realistic goals and expectations regarding the outcome of the surgery. It is also important to consider why you want to have nose surgery. The goal is to improve the nose aesthetically to better balance with the other facial features; sometimes breathing is improved at the same time. Rhinoplasty is performed by making small incisions on the inside of the nose. There are no external incisions. The skin is lifted off of the cartilage and bone and the nose is then sculpted to the appropriate shape. The skin is then placed back in position and dissolvable sutures are used to close the incisions inside the nose.

Remove Unsightly Sagging Skin And Fat In The Neck

2009-02-25T14:13:00.000-08:00

Do you have a double chin or droopy, sagging skin in your neck area? Is your neck too full and out of proportion with your face? Perhaps you've developed jowls and your once prominent jaw line is no longer visible. For some, droopy, fatty, skin in the neck area is the result of significant weight loss or the normal aging process, but for others, their sagging skin is genetic. Regardless, a double chin and excess skin and fat around the neck affects appearance and self esteem. The good news is-you can do something about it. Neck lifts are available to remove unsightly sagging skin and fat in the neck area leaving you with a neck and jaw line that is more attractive and youthful looking.

Who is a good candidate for a neck lift? Anyone who has lost a lot of weight, has a double chin, jowls, excess skin and fat in the neck area, neck banding or a neck with a turkey waddle appearance.

Neck lifts are performed using endoscopic surgery. The neck muscles are tightened, excess skin and fat removed and the skin is redraped to give better definition to the neck and jaw line. Scars are not noticeable because the incisions are hidden behind the ears. While a neck lift can't stop the aging process, it can make you look dramatically younger by highlighting the contours of your neck and jaw line. In fact, after your surgery, most people will think you've simply lost weight or just toned up. For a complete rejuvenation, a neck lift can be done in conjunction with a face or brow lift.

Raise and Reshape Sagging Breasts

2009-02-25T13:51:00.000-08:00

There are many reasons for undergoing a breast lift. Reasons include, having breasts that lack substance or firmness; having breasts that are pendulous, but of satisfactory size; having nipples and areolas that point downwards, especially if they are positioned below the breast crease; or having loss of elasticity, weight loss, pregnancy and breast-feeding affect the shape and firmness of the breasts.

Improve The Appearanc Of Your Body Contours With Liposuction

2009-02-25T13:17:00.000-08:00

Liposuction is a procedure performed to improve the appearance of your body contours. It can help sculpt the body by removing unwanted fat from specific areas, including the abdomen, hips, buttocks, thighs, knees, upper arms, chin, cheeks and neck. Although no type of liposuction is a substitute for dieting and exercise, liposuction can remove stubborn areas of fat that do not respond to traditional weight-loss methods.

There are technical variations to the basic liposuction techniques. Our surgeons are highly experienced and can remove the fat, but it is not what is removed that matters - it is the shape that you leave the body in after the fat is gone that counts. Liposuction techniques, together with an excellent artistic vision make our surgeons the right individuals to help you achieve the body contours you have always dreamed of.

The best candidates for liposuction are normal-weight people with firm, elastic skin who have pockets of excess fat in certain areas. You should be physically healthy, psychologically stable and realistic in your expectations. Your age is not a major consideration, but older patients may have diminished skin elasticity and may not achieve the same results as a younger patient with tighter skin.

Correct Your Vision with LASIK Laser Eye Surgery

2009-02-25T13:05:00.000-08:00

Laser in-situ keratomileusis, or LASIK, is a popular surgical approach used to correct vision in people who are nearsighted, farsighted, or have astigmatism.

All laser vision correction surgeries work by reshaping the cornea, or clear front part of the eye, so that light traveling through it is properly focused onto the retina located in the back of the eye. LASIK laser eye surgery (laser in-situ keratomileusis) is one of a number of different surgical techniques used to reshape the cornea.

More information on Lasik

Every Nose Job is Different, There is No One Perfect Nose

2009-02-25T12:14:00.000-08:00

When looking to perform a rhinoplasty, realistic expectations from the patient's perspective are very important. The goal of rhinoplasty is to reshape and sculpt a new nose that fits harmoniously with the face and fits into the facial balance for each individual patient. Every nose job is different. There is no one perfect nose.

Create Better Harmony Between The Chin And Other Facial Features With Chin Augmentation

2009-02-25T12:08:00.000-08:00

Chin augmentation (Genioplasty or Mentoplasty) can strengthen the appearance of a receding chin by increasing its projection. Simultaneously, it can create better harmony between the chin and other facial features for a more balanced profile. Chin augmentation does not affect your bite or jaw function.

There are two techniques for adding prominence and contour to your chin. One, performed through an incision inside the mouth, involves moving the chin bone. The other approach involves inserting an implant. The incision to insert this implant may be made in the mouth or on the underside of the chin, in the latter case, surgery will usually leave a negligible scar. To permit proper healing following chin augmentation, you may be placed on a liquid diet for a day or two. The area may be taped or bandaged.

Similarly, in some cases the cheekbones may be built up (augmented) by placing an implant over them. This is usually performed through an incision within the mouth, but it may be done through a lower eyelid or brow lift incision.

After a chin or cheek augmentation, you will most likely be up and about the same day as surgery and back to work within a week.

Minimize The Visible Effects Of Aging With Eyelid Surgery

2009-02-24T12:05:00.000-08:00

If you're considering a forehead lift, this brochure will provide a basic understanding of the procedure -- when it can help, how it's performed and what results you can expect. It won't answer all of your questions, since a lot depends on your individual circumstances. Be sure to ask your doctor if there is anything you don't understand about the procedure.

A forehead lift is most commonly performed in the 40-60 age range to minimize the visible effects of aging. However, it can also help people of any age who have developed furrows or frown lines due to stress or muscle activity. Individuals with inherited conditions, such as a low, heavy brow or furrowed lines above the nose can achieve a more alert and refreshed look with this procedure.

Forehead lift is often performed in conjunction with a facelift to provide a smoother overall look to the face. Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) may also be performed at the same time as a forehead lift, especially if a patient has significant skin overhang in the upper eyelids. Sometimes, patients who believe they need upper-eyelid surgery find that a forehead lift better meets their surgical goals.

Patients who are bald, who have a receding hairline, or who have had previous upper-eyelid surgery may still be good candidates for forehead lift. The surgeon will simply alter the incision location or perform a more conservative operation.

Remember, a forehead lift can enhance your appearance and your self-confidence, but it won't necessarily change your looks to match your ideal or cause other people to treat you differently. Before you decide to have surgery, think carefully about your expectations and discuss them in detail with your doctor.

A Breast Implant Procedure May Be Right For You

2009-02-24T11:45:00.000-08:00

Countless studies have shown that beauty can affect the quality of life for Americans in every business, and that professional advancement is often tied unconsciously to such impressions. If you have found your confidence suffering because your body doesn't look the way you would like it to, there is simply no reason not to give yourself every advantage. Client testimonials report that breast augmentation surgery can have a profound effect on the patients' outlook, temperament and success.

There are as many reasons for getting breast implants as there are unique women in the world. Some women experience a reduction in breast size due to weight loss, while other women experience a loss of elasticity in breast tissue as a part of the natural aging process. If you have naturally small breasts and you want to stop worrying about them once and for all, a breast implant procedure may be right for you.

Good breast implants can do a lot more than simply augment your appearance. For a growing number of women, procedures such as these have offered a way to level the playing course and partake of the same physical gifts some people simply get through genetics. The boost in confidence that accompanies such enhancement is often well worth the operation.

Do You Appear More Tired Than You Feel?

2009-02-23T16:33:00.000-08:00

Oftentimes patients complain that they appear more tired than they feel. Sometimes fat is repositioned from the lower eyelid into the deep tear troughs or the deep depressions that exist at the bottom of the lower eyelids. The incisions are easily hidden below the eyelashes of the lower eyelids and sometimes performed with no incision on the lower eyelid whatsoever, called a transconjunctival blepharoplasty. The upper eyelid incision is hidden very well back within the deep crease that is seen when the eye is shut, but retracts back when the eyelid is open. Many times eyelid surgery is performed at the same time as a face lift or a brow lift.

Achieve A Natural, Youthful Appearance

2009-02-23T16:26:00.000-08:00

Often prospective facelift patients complain they look much more tired than they feel and are looking for a natural youthful appearance. Most patients do not want to look overdone or pulled. The key to looking natural after surgery is to tighten the underlying muscles of the face without much tension on the skin. The best facelifts do not distort the hairline behind the ears or sideburn in front of the ear. The earlobes should also be left in place without being pulled forward. The surgical incisions should be difficult to detect.

The Results of Breast Surgery can be Subtle or Dramatic

2009-02-23T16:15:00.000-08:00

Some women wish to enhance their body contour because they feel that their breasts are too small. Other women seek to correct a reduction in breast volume after pregnancy and nursing, or to balance a difference in breast size. The results of breast augmentation can be subtle or dramatic, and depend on a patient’s personal preferences. For many of a board certified plastic surgeon's patients, the results of breast augmentation surgery are satisfying and exhilarating.

Temporarily Restore A Smoother, More Youthful-Looking Appearance

2009-02-23T16:03:00.000-08:00

Soft-tissue fillers, most commonly injectable collagen or fat, can help fill in lines and creases, temporarily restoring a smoother, more youthful-looking appearance. When injected beneath the skin, these fillers plump up creased and sunken areas of the face. They can also add fullness to the lips and cheeks. Injectable fillers may be used alone or in conjunction with a resurfacing procedure, such as a laser treatment, or a recontouring procedure, such as a facelift.

A More Positive Self Image May Be A Result Of Breast Surgery

2009-02-23T15:40:00.000-08:00

Women who desire larger breasts may wish to have a breast enlargement (augmentation) procedure. Breast augmentation may also be indicated for women who have one breast that is noticeably smaller than the other. Breast augmentation is intended to give the patient larger and more shapely breasts. A more positive self image may also be a result of breast enlargement. Breast enlargement is done on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia. A small incision is made under the breast and a saline breast implant is inserted under the breast tissue or under the breast tissue and the underlying muscle. The patient goes home in an elastic bra. The bra helps hold the breasts in the correct position. Initial discomfort is controlled with oral medication.

Improve and Smooth the Texture of Your Face

2009-02-23T15:19:00.000-08:00

Chemical peels use a solution to improve and smooth the texture of facial skin by removing its damaged outer layers. Skin type and color, ethnic background, and age are important factors to be discussed prior to surgery. Some cosmetic surgeons work together with industry skin experts who bring over 25 years of experience to your treatment. Recovery time, depending on the nature of the chemical is from one to four weeks.

Post Arm Lift Care

2009-02-23T15:02:00.000-08:00

After arm lift surgery or upper arm liposuction you will be required to wear a compressive garment which is much like a very tight shirt. The length of time for which the garment is worn varies with surgeon preference and extent of surgery, and averages 2 to 4 weeks. You may return to work within 2 to 3 days, again depending on the extent of your surgery.

There Are Always Some Risks Associated With Body Contouring Surgery

2009-02-20T12:46:00.000-08:00

Thousands of body contouring surgeries are performed successfully each year. When done by a qualified plastic surgeon who is trained in body contouring, the results are generally quite positive. Nevertheless, there are always risks associated with surgery and specific complications associated with this procedure.

The Best Candidate for a Face Lift

2009-02-20T12:28:00.000-08:00

The best candidate for a facelift is a man or woman whose face and neck have begun to sag, but whose skin still has some elasticity and whose bone structure is strong and well-defined. Most patients are in their forties to sixties, but facelifts can be done successfully on people in their seventies or eighties as well.

Two Approaches to Blepharoplasty

2009-02-20T11:50:00.000-08:00

Traditional Blepharoplasty: An incision is made in the crease of the upper lid toward the temples. Once healed, it is not noticeable when the eye is open. On the lower lid, the incision is made along the lash line toward the temples, and is hidden by lashes when healed.
The Transconjunctival Approach: This is a newer technique for blepharoplasty, involving an incision inside the lower lid. Fat can be removed through this incision, but excess skin cannot be eliminated.

Seek Relief From Back Pain with a Breast Lift

2009-02-20T11:39:00.000-08:00

Patients who undergo breast reduction surgery frequently are seeking relief from physical symptoms caused by the excessive weight of large breasts. Breast reduction usually can solve these problems as well as improve the size and shape of your breasts. Following breast reduction, your breasts will be more proportional to the rest of your body, and clothes will fit you better.

Recovering From a Browlift

2009-02-20T10:30:00.000-08:00

Browlift recovery will usually require a few days before the patient is moving and a week to ten days should be allowed before returning to work. The endoscopic procedure usually has a quicker recovery time and less negative consequences than the classic method. Discuss with your cosmetic surgeon which procedure is best for you.

Many Women Desiring Breast Augmentation Have Been Self-Conscious Since Their Youth

2009-02-20T10:17:00.000-08:00

Many women desiring breast augmentation never fully developed and have been self-conscious of their appearance since youth. Others have had children and noticed significant shrinkage and sagging of the breast tissue following childbirth or breast-feeding. Other still just simply want an breast enlargement or have more fullness to the breasts.

Chin Implants Improve Underlying Structure

2009-02-20T10:09:00.000-08:00

Bone structure is essential to an important part of an attractive, balanced face. Chin implants can improve this underlying structure, and better balance the facial features for a dramatically more attractive look. This operation is often performed at the time of rhinoplasty to help to balance the facial proportions. It may be combined with facelift, liposuction or other facial implants as well.

Perform Other Plastic Surgery Procedrues at the Same Time as a Tummy Tuck

2009-02-20T06:56:00.000-08:00

Patients often have multiple procedures at the same time. The most common include breast augmentation, breast lifts, tummy tuck, and/or liposuction. This saves both time and money since costs are often reduced when multiple procedures are combined. Additional procedures would also include facial cosmetic surgery or those related to weight loss such as thigh or buttock lifts.

Who is Performing Your Face Lift?

2009-02-19T18:01:00.000-08:00

A face lift is a procedure which, unfortunately, can be performed by any physician - whether adequately trained or not. Most states have very little regulation on this matter. Because of this, non-plastic - or so called "cosmetic" - surgeons can perform a face lift as well. In addition, some physicians who are legitimately board certified in other specialties, such as dermatology and gynecology, for example are performing "cosmetic" surgery even though they often have never had any formal residency training in the specialty of plastic surgery itself. Weekend courses abound and the patient is often confused as to which doctor to see.

Sclerotherapy Eliminates Spider Veins

2009-02-19T17:51:00.000-08:00

The use of compression hosiery for up to two weeks after treatment is recommended, which may be used for at least eight hours a day. Sclerotherapy can be done in other parts of the body including the face. The area in the face will be red and puffy, but the resolution tends to be very much faster. Many plastic surgeons offer the option of Laser/IPL for the delicate areas of the face. Two days before the treatment, as with any injectables, we suggest that alcohol be avoided, as well as other medications or supplements that thin blood.

Considering Cosmetic Breast Surgery is an Exciting Time

2009-02-19T17:19:00.000-08:00

Considering cosmetic breast surgery is an exciting time. You are imagining the possibilities and researching not only the procedures but who is most qualified to help you achieve your goals. You want to select a board certified plastic surgeon that possesses both technical expertise and artistic ability so that you achieve the natural look you desire.

Fill In Your Sunken Cheeks

2009-02-19T16:56:00.000-08:00

Combat Scars Resulting From Acne

2009-02-19T15:55:00.000-08:00

Plastic and cosmetic surgeons have multiple regimens that are very useful in combating the scars resulting from acne. The therapies a surgeon uses include the use of cosmeticeuticals available in the office. In addition, the therapies progress to the more aggressive treatments; chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and even the use of excision of deep scars or the injection of scars with dermal fillers. A surgeon will plan individual therapies with each patient. You are encouraged to make an appointment today to begin the journey to a beautiful complexion.

Brachioplasty Can Remove Flabby Skin Fold Of The Upper Arms

2009-02-19T13:59:00.000-08:00

Brachioplasty, also known as arm lift or arm tuck, is a plastic surgery procedure designed to remove redundant, flabby, and sagging skin folds of the upper arms. Hanging arm skin folds are not only unsightly, but also interfere with one’s ability to fit in sleeved tops, as well as causing underarm skin rash and irritation.

Brachioplasty can now offer patients the freedom of a lifestyle that they couldn't enjoy previously. In fact, the popularity of arm lift surgery has soared to a point that according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the number of Brachioplasty surgeries has tripled since 1997, with nearly 15,000 procedures being performed in 2005. Arm lift surgery is not exclusive to women. Actually, many men also undergo brachioplasty.

Breast Augmentation Can Enhance Your Appearance And Your Self-Confidence

2009-02-19T13:19:00.000-08:00

Breast augmentation can enhance your appearance and your self-confidence, but it won't necessarily change your looks to match your ideal, or cause other people to treat you differently. Before you decide to have surgery, think carefully about your expectations and discuss them with your surgeon.

The best candidates for breast augmentation are women who are looking for improvement, not perfection, in the way they look. If you're physically healthy and realistic in your expectations, you may be a good candidate.

Restore a Thinner and Fitter Looking Contour to your Body with Thigh and Buttock lifts

2009-02-19T12:43:00.000-08:00

- This plastic surgeon focuses on plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery procedures including thigh and buttock lifts and other reconstructive surgical procedures. Please contact us today to learn more about this procedure.

Patients who desire a thigh and buttock lift in Santa Monica usually are seeking to reduce the size of their buttocks or lower trunk area. This plastic surgery procedure is best for individuals who are unable to reduce their size through exercise and dieting. Such factors may affect an individual's confidence, leading them to seek their own thigh and buttock lift in Santa Monica.

A thigh and buttock lift can help such individuals restore a thinner and fitter looking contour to their bodies. The buttocks are made smaller to better match the body of the patient. This plastic surgeon in Santa Monica accomplishes this by removing excess fat and skin in the thigh and buttock and buttock areas and tightening the underlying muscle tissues. This not only helps to restore the physical appearance of the patient, but also restores self-confidence and respect to the patient. Please contact this plastic surgeon to learn more about getting a thigh and buttock lift in Santa Monica.

Tighten the Muscles of the Abdominal Wall with an Abdominoplasty

2009-02-19T11:48:00.000-08:00

Abdominoplasty , known more commonly as a "tummy tuck ," is a major surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen and to tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall. The procedure can dramatically reduce the appearance of a protruding abdomen. But bear in mind, it does produce a permanent scar, which, depending on the extent of the original problem and the surgery required to correct it, can extend from hip to hip.

If you're considering abdominoplasty, this will give you a basic understanding of the procedure-when it can help, how it's performed, and what results you can expect. It can't answer all of your questions, since a lot depends on the individual patient and the surgeon.

Correct the Appearance of Droopy Upper Eyelids with Blepharoplasty

2009-02-18T14:14:00.000-08:00

The first signs of aging to appear in the mid to late 30's are almost always related to the eyes. Furthermore, psychological studies show that 50 percent of our initial impression of a person is made on the basis of the appearance of the eyes. The eyes tell others if we are sad, happy, angry or tired. Blepharoplasty corrects the appearance of droopy upper eyelids and puffy bags of the lower eyelids, and it produces dramatic and predictable results. It is very common to hear family and friends of eyelid surgery patients compliment them that they look more rested and relaxed. Quite often, even these close acquaintances do not realize that surgery was performed. The recovery is very rapid and you can resume a normal routine in one to two days. The sutures come out in four days, and makeup can be resumed on day five.

Refine the Shape and Size of your Breasts

2009-02-18T13:51:00.000-08:00

Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that uses implants to refine the shape and size of the breasts. Recently, the FDA has lifted the restriction on the use of silicone implants allowing patients the choice between silicone and saline breast augmentation. Breast augmentation has seen a dramatic increase in popularity over the past three years, a testimony to the high satisfaction rate that most women give to the results.

There is considerable controversy among surgeons over breast implants, particularly those related to decisions about size and shape. The size and shape are decisions that are mostly subjective and are governed by prevailing taste. Adding to the confusion is the fact that nobody really agrees about what the appropriate size of the ideal breast actually is. What is your ideal size?

Reduce or Eliminate Excess Skin From the Upper Arms

2009-02-18T13:27:00.000-08:00

If you have unsightly sagging skin on the upper arms due to aging, genetics, or weight loss, you may be a candidate for upper arm lift. The procedure is intended to reduce or eliminate excess skin from the upper arms.

The procedure is usually done under general anesthesia. In order to remove the unwanted skin, an incision is required that runs from near the elbow into the armpit. The incision is placed in the most inconspicuous location (inner arm toward the back), but some scarring will always be visible.

After surgery, the upper arms are either wrapped or placed in an elastic sleeve to reduce swelling. Initial healing usually occurs in 10-14 days. Sutures are usually removed within the first 24 weeks. Swelling and bruising gradually disappear over 3-4 weeks. All swelling is gone in 3-6 months. The scars fade in 6-24 months depending on your skin. An additional procedure that may enhance the result is Liposuction of the upper arms.

This procedure is considered cosmetic and therefore is not covered by insurance. The patient is responsible for payment. The specific risks and the suitability of this procedure for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally. Major complications are unusual.

Correct a Drooping Brow and Restore a More Youthful Look

2009-02-18T12:16:00.000-08:00

A brow lift (a.k.a. a forehead lift, upper face lift) is a procedure utilized to correct a drooping brow and to restore a more youthful look. Laughing, crying, smiling and frowning are common facial expressions that involve the use of the forehead. Because your forehead is always moving, this eventually takes its toll on your skin. Together with aging, the result is eventually drooping eyebrows, forehead lines, and those ubiquitous frown lines. A sagging brow crowds the eyes and makes it appear that one is always frowning or angry. Often, a brow lift alone can correct upper eyelid skin excess that cannot be corrected with an eyelid lift alone. Raising the brows and tightening the upper face "opens up" the eyes, restoring a rested, more youthful look. A brow lift can be performed alone, or in conjunction with a face-neck lift and/or blepharoplasty.

Remove Unwanted Hair Without Shaving with Laser Hair Removal

2009-02-18T12:07:00.000-08:00

Laser treatment is an FDA approved non-invasive approach to permanent reduction of facial and body hair. Long term studies in the U.S. and Europe have shown the technology to be effective and safe when done by experienced professionals. It is a convenient way to remove unwanted hair without shaving, waxing, or electrolysis. Women most often treat the lip and chin, under arms, bikini line, and legs. Men usually treat the back, shoulders, and upper arms.

Many Woman Want their Breasts Proportionate to the Rest of their Body

2009-02-18T12:05:00.000-08:00

Many women wish to increase the size and/or fullness of their breasts to make them more proportional to the rest of their body. Women of all ages come to our office desiring to enlarge their breasts for a number of reasons. Generally, women that have a genetic pre-disposition toward small breasts tell us that they desire to better fill out their clothes or bathing suits. Women that have lost breast volume after weight loss or breast-feeding typically tell us that they want to regain their breast fullness and/or cleavage. In all these cases, breast augmentation is usually the optimal way to increase your breast size, which can improve the way you look and feel about yourself.

There are Many Surgical Approaches for Breast Augmentation

2009-02-18T11:50:00.000-08:00

There are a variety of surgical approaches for breast augmentation, which include inconspicuous incisions in the armpit, underneath the breast (just above the crease), around the areola or in the belly button. Most plastic surgeons can perform all of these approaches, but prefers the transaxillary approach. Referred to as a TransAxillary SubPectoral Augmentation (TASPA), this technique involves making a small incision in the armpit to place a breast implant beneath the chest wall muscle. Many plastic surgeons feel that a TASPA generally yields the most natural-looking result with minimal scarring.

Create a Natural-looking Nose that Balances With the Rest of the Face

2009-02-18T11:47:00.000-08:00

Rhinoplasty, most commonly referred to as a "nose job," is a surgical procedure designed to create a natural-looking nose that balances with the rest of the face. It is a highly refined procedure and not an easy one to master. Deformed noses are often accompanied by breathing problems, and most rhinoplasty techniques can easily worsen these problems. It is best to trust your nose to a specialist who has many years of experience and judgment. Often rhinoplasty is accompanied by a chin implant to produce a more balanced and harmonious face, and on some occasions a chin implant alone will correct an apparent prominent nose. Recovery is rapid, discomfort rarely lasts more than one day, and almost everyone can return to normal social activity in six days.

A Weak Chin Can Make A Nose Appear Larger

2009-02-17T17:02:00.000-08:00

Chin augmentation is a way to bring balance to the facial structure of correcting a weak chin due to the related bone resorption or facial trauma. This procedure can be as simple as tissue augmentation filler to implanting a silicone or porex chin implant to have to cover all the ways you are able to enhance your chin. A weak chin can also make a normal nose appear large and an already pronounced larger. It may also give the appearance of a fleshy neck. This also brings a balanced relationship within the structure of the face. You can consult a surgeon who will be able to give you full advice which might prove useful to you.

Children Who Endure Teasing Can Benefit The Most From Ear Surgery

2009-02-17T16:40:00.000-08:00

Ear surgery is usually done to set prominent ears back closer to the head or to reduce the size of large ears. Ears are almost fully grown by age four, so the operation is done on children between ages of four and fourteen. Ear surgery is also possible in adults with fewer risks. You have to be clear about what and how you want your ear to be when you talk to the doctor.

Recovery From Breast Reconstruction

2009-02-17T15:01:00.000-08:00

Recovery from implant based reconstruction is faster than with lap-based reconstruction, but both take at least three to six weeks to recover and both require follow up surgeries in order to construct a new areola and nipple. The patients should avoid active sports, over head lifting and sexual activity during recovery period. TRAM flap patients can show abdominal muscle weakness but most patients resume normal activities after recovery.