Plastic Surgery In Michigan

Liposuction Has Become One Of The Most Popular Surgery Procedures

2009-12-05T20:18:54Z

Contrary to what many believe, liposuction surgery is commonly performed on both men and women who are health conscious, maintain proper diet and workout regularly, but have problem areas, such as their hips, thighs, love handles, pecs, and even small stubborn pouches of belly fat.

Liposuction surgery is one of the most popular plastic surgery procedure performed these days. Liposuction surgery has different names and techniques, such as Suction assisted liposuction, tumescent liposuction, and power assisted liposuction. all of these techniques involve the same surgery procedure. The ultrasonic liposuction procedure uses sound waves to remove excess fatty tissue. It removes fat in areas that are resistant to proper diet and regular exercise, even if you aren't heavy or have a small body frame. This procedure also works well on patients who are over their ideal body weight and have localized excess fat deposits. Liposuction surgery is not a substitute for maintaining a proper diet and exercise plan. Ideally, Liposuction surgery is best suited for the problem areas in the lower body, but it can also be used on the neck, arms, and can even removes excess fat in the breasts in men, a condition called gynecomastia and this surgical procedure can also help women with excess breast fat- a procedure referred to as reduction mammoplasty, more commonly called breast reduction surgery.

What is the Difference Between a Full Tummy Tuck and a Mini-Tummy Tuck?

2009-11-16T20:48:19Z

Tummy Tuck surgery, also known as Abdominoplasty surgery, is a surgical procedure in which the loose skin of the stomach area is removed and the muscles of the abdominal area are tightened. While a strict exercise and diet plan will help most people firm their stomach, which in turn helps them to feel and look better, some problems, such as protruding belly, loose or hanging skin, and weak muscles on both men and women can be improved with this surgical procedure. Every year, more than 80,000 women and men across the U.S. elect to have a tummy tuck surgery procedure. Women and men who have a protruding belly, loose or hanging abdominal skin and weak abdominal muscles are all excellent candidates for the full tummy tuck surgery procedure. A Mini-Abdominoplasty surgery, commonly referred to as a mini-tummy tuck, is a procedure that can be performed on patients who have a smaller or limited amount of loose skin and/or stretch marks in the lower abdomen, and do not need the normal tightening of abdominal muscles as in a full abdominoplasty surgery procedure. However, if the patient has excessive fat but minimal or limited looseness of the abdominal wall, the procedure may be performed in along with a liposuction procedure.
Women that plan to become pregnant should not have this surgery procedure, because a second procedure may be required in order to re-tighten the belly after pregnancy. In most cases, abdominoplasty surgery removes the stretch marks inherent with pregnancy, because this procedure removes most of the "stretched out" skin below the navel.

What Is Liposuction Surgery, and How Can It Help Me?

2009-11-14T21:40:42Z

Liposuction is a cosmetic surgery procedure that helps to sculpt the body by removing excess fat from specific areas of the body. Through a small incision, a slim tube is inserted through the incision to remove the fat layer that lies deep beneath the skin. The cannula is then inserted and moved through the fat layer, breaking up the fat cells and suctioning them through a vacuum pump or a large syringe. Liposuction surgery is not a substitute for dieting and exercise, but it can help with the stubborn areas of fat that do not seemt o be affected by normal weight loss methods.

Good candidates for a liposuction procedure are people who are within 30% of their ideal weight and have firm, elastic skin with pockets of excess fat in certain areas. You should be realistic about your expectations and in good physical and mental health. Individuals with certain medical conditions may not be suitable candidates for liposuction surgery - check with your plastic surgeon if you have such a medical condition.

Cirugia de parpado - es adecuada para mi?

2009-11-13T00:17:58Z

La cirugía de los párpados, o blefaroplastia, corrige párpados caidos, así como bolsas y bultos alrededor de los ojos. Estas condiciones ser desarrollan como resultado de relajamiento de la piel del párpado y acumulación de la grasa alrededor de los ojos. No se limita a pacientes de mayor edad, como muchos individuos heredan una predisposición hacia el desarrollo de bolsas grasosas en una edad temprana. Debido a ello, la corrección quirúrgica es apropiada para todos grupos de edad.
Siguiendo las líneas naturales de sus párpados, el cirujano hace incisiones que utilizan un escalpelo o un láser . El exceso de la piel entonces puede ser removida por la extirpación tradicional o por el láser; la grasa no esencial se quita precisamente (para evitar un futuro aspecto "hueco" a medida que el paciente incrementa en edad). Las suturas finas se utilizan para cerrar los incisiones (y puede ser removido en dos a siete días). Asegurese de consultar con un cirujano plastico antes de someterse a la cirujia de parpados.

Plastic Surgery Q&A - Nose Surgery

2009-11-11T16:26:02Z

I hate the size and shape of my nose and I have breathing problems can nose surgery fix these problems?

Nose Surgery, also referred to as 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. It may also correct a birth defect or injury, or help relieve some breathing problems.

Rhinoplasty 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 plastic surgeon.

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

Tummy Tuck Surgery Can Significantly Narrow Your Waistline

2009-11-09T20:47:50Z

A tummy tuck is a major surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen and tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall. The procedure can dramatically reduce the appearance of a large or protruding abdomen and can significantly narrow the waistline.

The best candidates for a tummy tuck surgery are men or women who are bothered by a large fat deposit or loose abdominal skin that won't respond to diet or exercise. The surgery is ideal for women who have been pregnant and have stretched their abdominal muscles and skin beyond the point where they can return to normal, thereby resulting in “stretch marks.” A tummy tuck can also improve a loss of skin elasticity, which frequently occurs in overweight or obese patients. Overall, a tummy tuck can produce excellent results for patients with weakened abdominal muscles or excess skin in the abdominal region.

Mini-Abdominoplasty, sometimes called a mini-tummy tuck, may be performed on patients who only have a limited amount of loose skin or stretch marks in the lower abdomen and who would not need the tightening of abdominal muscles that is part of a standard abdominoplasty, although sometimes, the mini-tummy tuck may include it. However, if the patient has excessive fat but minimal or limited looseness of the abdomen, this plastic surgery procedure may be performed in tandem with liposuction.

Thinking of Giving Each Other the Gift of Plastic Surgery?

2009-11-06T23:09:50Z

Important Tips for Would-Be Gift Givers, Recipients

More and more couples are considering plastic surgery as the ultimate gift. However, it is important to weigh the risks and benefits of any aesthetic procedure, as well as choosing the surgeon, and setting that are right for you.

There are benefits to coming in for a consultation with a loved one, but decisions about individual surgeries should only be made by the person who is going to undergo the procedure. Additionally, couples who are both undergoing procedures should time their surgeries so that the other person can be available to care for their partner when they have surgery.

For anyone considering aesthetic surgery, Here is some important advice:

The idea for plastic surgery should come from the person who intends to have it, not from a spouse, relative or friend.
Plastic surgery takes planning. If you expect to give or receive a "gift" of plastic surgery, make sure that everyone involved does their homework well ahead of time. A self-motivated, well-informed patient is more likely to be a satisfied patient.
Patients should discuss risks, benefits, expectations, and desires with a board-certified plastic surgeon. Surgery should be performed at an accredited surgical facility. All members of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, have significant documented experience in cosmetic surgery, and operate only in accredited surgical facilities.
Not all patients are good candidates for all procedures. Patients need to be evaluated by a qualified and board-certified plastic surgeon to determine if they are an appropriate candidate for a particular procedure.

What Is Breast Reduction?

2009-11-05T21:45:26Z

Women with very large, pendulous breasts may experience a variety of medical problems caused by the excessive weight-from back and neck pain and skin irritation to skeletal deformities and breathing problems. Bra straps may leave indentations in their shoulders. And unusually large breasts can make a woman-or a teenage girl-feel extremely self-conscious.

Breast reduction surgery, technically known as reduction mammaplasty, is designed for such women. The procedure removes fat, glandular tissue, and skin from the breasts, making them smaller, lighter, and firmer. It can also reduce the size of the areola, the darker skin surrounding the nipple. The goal is to give the woman smaller, better-shaped breasts in proportion with the rest of her body.

If you're considering breast reduction, 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 your individual circumstances. Please be sure to ask your doctor if there is anything about the procedure you don't understand.

The Best Candidates for Breast Reduction

Breast reduction is usually performed for physical relief rather than simply cosmetic improvement. Most women who have the surgery are troubled by very large, sagging breasts that restrict their activities and cause them physical discomfort.

In most cases, breast reduction isn't performed until a woman's breasts are fully developed; however, it can be done earlier if large breasts are causing serious physical discomfort. The best candidates are those who are mature enough to fully understand the procedure and have realistic expectations about the results. Breast reduction is not recommended for women who intend to breast-feed.

Your New Look
Although much of the swelling and bruising will disappear in the first few weeks, it may be six months to a year before your breasts settle into their new shape. Even then, their shape may fluctuate in response to your hormonal shifts, weight changes, and pregnancy.

Of all plastic surgery procedures, breast reduction results in the quickest body-image changes. You'll be rid of the physical discomfort of large breasts, your body will look better proportioned, and clothes will fit you better.

Abdominoplasty Can Help Provide The Body Tone You Desire

2009-11-05T21:38:56Z

The abdominoplasty procedure is an operation which is performed to eliminate excess fatty tissue and skin folds in the mid to lower abdominal region. Often, women who have experienced multiple pregnancies have an excess amount of skin in this region as a result of abdominal swelling during pregnancy. During this procedure, the surgeon raises abdominal skin and tissue, stretching it downward and removing the excess with a closure within what is referred to as a “bikini line.” Repair of muscular structures is done at the same time. Often, the procedure involves repositioning the navel to a higher level. To enhance the result, liposuction of the hips and abdomen is often performed.

The procedure begins with the plastic surgeon making an incision that goes from hip to hip along the lower pubic area, made in an area that will allow the resulting scar from the procedure to be hidden under a bathing suit or underwear. The surgeon will then lift the loose skin from the abdominal wall, at which point the loosened “rectus” muscles that normally give the abdomen its strength are tightened and repaired. This provides essentially the same effect of an old-fashioned girdle.

The belly button, or “umbilicus,” will be disconnected from the abdomen. The loose skin will be removed, the abdominal wall will be tightened, the thighs and buttocks will be tightened, and the belly button will be reattached. Drains will be used on each side of the abdominal incision in order to remove excess fluid and prevent buildup after the procedure.

In the abdominoplasty, postoperative scarring is significant and may take from six months to a year for resolution; it will never disappear completely. Most often abdominoplasty is performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia. Routine activity can be resumed within ten days, but sports and exercising are prohibited for six weeks to allow the muscle to heal properly.

What It Takes to Be a Top Cosmetic Surgeon in Idaho

2009-10-23T21:29:05Z

All too often, many people think of cosmetic surgeons as Doctors who decided not to pursue a more in depth field of medicine such a heart surgeon, or neurological surgeon, etc. What most do not realize is that cosmetic surgery is not a fly by night industry and while there are those surgeons who do a good job at furthering that myth, the majority of cosmetic surgeons are caring, skilled and experienced doctors with a sharp eye for the details.

Realize that cosmetic surgery is a very in depth field. Everyday a large number of cosmetic surgeons take a role in advancing the techniques and methods used in order to make cosmetic surgery procedures safer, and increase the probability of successful surgical procedures. Currently there are many techniques, and advancements for products such as breast Implants in clinical trials, being tested, research data is being recorded, and Patients taking part in these trails feedback and experiences are being sought- all in an effort to improve cosmetic surgery as a whole.

In order for a cosmetic surgeon in Idaho to excel, be successful and maintain a positive reputation, it takes a tireless work ethic, never ending study and education, and a desire to help people become the best they can be. Many of these successful cosmetic surgeons are also talented artists, and that natural artistic quality carries over into plastic surgery.

In short, to become and remain a successful cosmetic surgeon, one must always maintain a compassionate desire to help others, and do everything possible to further advance the technology, surgical methods and techniques that make cosmetic surgery procedures and successful results a reality.

What Can I expect From a Dermal Filler Treatment?

2009-10-23T21:27:06Z

In most cases, Dermal filler appointments will take about an hour. Most of this time will be with a numbing agent gradually numbing the skin. Sometimes when extensive lip treatments are being performed, we will opt to give a small, nearly painless, numbing injection to deaden the sensitive lip tissue prior to administering the dermal filler. In this case, your lip will remain numb for up to an hour following the session.

During the actual treatment you should be very comfortable, feeling only some mild pin pricks or stinging. Most patients are impressed at the ease of these treatments. If you are experiencing significant discomfort during the session please advise the plastic surgeon as there are often other remedies to ease any pain you might be feeling.

After the session a small amount of swelling and redness in the treated area is normal and to be expected. Typically the majority of this reactivity will be gone within several hours but on occasion can persist for several days. Bruising can occur. If you are susceptible to bruising or on blood thinners, please let your provider know prior to the treatment so extra precautions or recommendations can be made. Bruising will not affect the end result but can take up to 10 days to resolve when significant.

Artistry and Experience is the Secret to Great Botox!

2009-10-23T21:22:36Z

Although BOTOX® may look easy to administer, it is not this aspect which is most important to the outcome. The clinician's experience and "aesthetic eye" is the key to a great outcome with BOTOX®.

Treatments take 20-30 minutes unless you opt not to have your skin numbed prior to the injections, then the treatment should take less than 10 minutes. Several tiny injections are given in the areas that you and your provider have decided upon. They usually are barely appreciable in sensation or appearance following the injection. You can reapply makeup to the treated areas immediately after the session.

There are no specific after care instructions. If this is the first time you have had Botox injections, you will not notice any change for at least 3 days and the complete effect will take up to 14 days.

Side effects from Botox are very rare, but headaches can occur temporarily after the injection – especially in patients who suffer from frequent headaches. Ironically, Botox injections often help with frequent headache patients once the Botox takes effect. Bruising can occur although very infrequently. If you are prone to bruising or are on blood thinners please notify your caregiver; special techniques and recommendations will be used to try to minimize your bruising risk. If bruising does occur it will not affect your final result and typically is minor enough that makeup coverage will conceal it.

It is always recommended that anyone considering a cosmetic or plastic surgery procedure first consult with a qualified, and experienced cosmetic surgeon. Proper research and pre-procedure planning is an important step in a decision to undergo a cosmetic procedure, and one that should not be taken lightly. Ensure you fully understand the procedure, its risks, and have a realistic expectation of the results.

Research is very important to the process, and should be done prior to having your chosen procedure, no matter how invasive the procedure is. There are many great outlets available for this research,. the best one I have found is lookingyourbest.com- a free-to-use website that offers a large library full of in depth plastic and cosmetic surgery information. This website also offers a free service to help you locate a skilled and experienced specialist in your area.

The Difference Between types Of Dermal Fillers

2009-10-21T23:07:59Z

JUVÉDERM™ is the latest dermal filler advance from Allergan, Inc. for temporarily correcting moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds. JUVÉDERM™ is a “next generation“ smooth gel, non-animal dermal filler offering a natural look/feel and long lasting results for up to six months or longer. JUVÉDERM™ dermal filler lasts long because it’s the only dermal filler currently available with the highest concentration of hyaluronic acid and a special formulation process. This process creates a smooth gel that flows easily into the skin, creating smooth, natural looks.

Radiesse ® is a non-surgical facial contouring filler that delivers an immediate and long-lasting result. Used to restore and reshape obvious signs of facial aging, Radiesse ® remains soft and pliable and takes on characteristics of surrounding tissue.
Radiesse ® is made of very tiny, smooth, calcium-based microspheres that are suspended in a natural gel that is injected into the skin through a simple, safe and minimally invasive procedure. The microspheres (particles) form a scaffold through which your body’s own collagen grows.

This unique composition provides immediate visual improvement common with other fillers, along with the benefit of long-lasting results. For the first three months after injection, Radiesse ® initially performs as a filler substance by plumping up the skin. Then due to its collagen-generating properties, Radiesse ® actually stimulates new tissue development for extended correction for up to 12 to 24 months.

Restylane ® is a safe and natural cosmetic dermal filler that restores volume and fullness to the skin to correct facial wrinkles and folds, providing a smoother, more youthful appearance. It has also become the preferred treatment for lip enhancement. Restylane ® is made of hyaluronic acid, a natural substance that already exists in the human body. Restylane ® maintains its shape using the body’s own moisture. The hyaluronic acid in Restylane ® is hydrophilic or “water loving.” As hyaluronic acid gradually degrades, each molecule binds to more water and over time, the same volume can be maintained with less hyaluronic acid. This ability of hyaluronic acid to bind to water is what helps provide lasting results.

For anyone considering Dermal Filler procedures to restore that youthful look, please be sure and consult with a qualified Skin care specialist prior to having any cosmetic procedure. It is also recommended that you do some research to make sure you understand your chosen procedure prior to scheduling the procedure. There are many websites on the internet that provide information about dermal fillers- the best and most accurate website I have found is lookingyourbest.com- a free website offering a wealth of in depth plastic surgery information.

The Anatomy of a Wrinkle

2009-10-19T22:23:10Z

The cosmetic form of botulinum toxin, often referred to by its product name Botox®, is a popular non-surgical injection that temporarily reduces or eliminates frown lines, forehead creases, crows feet near the eyes and thick bands in the neck. The toxin blocks the nerve impulses, temporarily paralyzing the muscles that cause wrinkles while giving the skin a smoother, more refreshed appearance. Studies have also suggested that Botox is effective in relieving migraine headaches, excessive sweating and muscle spasms in the neck and eyes. Botox can be a valuable addition in preparing for Plastic Surgery and/or delaying surgical treatment. The effects of botox are not seen for 2 to 4 days and do not peak until 2 weeks. The results can last 3 to 6 months.

The Anatomy of a Wrinkle
The fine lines that begin to appear between your brows (glabellar lines) as you age are actually the result of muscle movement over time. You may have heard the age old "wearing your emotions on your sleeve," but really, you wear your emotions on your face. When you're angry or annoyed, you brow scrunches together. Beneath your skin, your facial muscles contract, causing a pleating of the overlying skin, or 'frowning'.

After years of wrinkling, those glabellar lines start to linger longer and can become more pronounced. For women, whose faces tend to be more animated than men's, and whose skin is typically more delicate, these lines may appear exaggerated and more permanent.

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 Plastic Surgeon. 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 cosmetic 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 desiring plastic surgery locate an experienced and qualified specialist in their area.

Is A Chemical Peel Right For You?

2009-10-19T19:02:39Z

Chemical peel uses a chemical solution to improve and smooth the texture of the facial skin by removing its damaged outer layers. It is helpful for those individuals with facial blemishes, wrinkles and uneven skin pigmentation. Phenol, trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and alphahydroxy acids (AHAs) are used for this purpose. The precise formula used may be adjusted to meet each patient's needs. Although chemical peel may be performed in conjunction with a facelift, it is not a substitute for such surgery, nor will it prevent or slow the aging process. Your plastic surgeon will provide information about certain types of chemical peel treatments and the results you might expect. It won't answer all your questions, since a lot depends on your individual circumstances. Once you and your plastic surgeon have decided on a specific peel program, be sure to ask about any details that you do not understand.

Chemical peel is most commonly performed for cosmetic reasons -- to enhance your appearance and your self confidence. Chemical peel may also remove pre-cancerous skin growths, soften acne facial scars and even control acne. In certain cases, health insurance may cover the peel procedure. Be sure to check your policy and contact your insurance company before the procedure is performed.

Reasons For Having A Breast Lift Surgery Procedure

2009-10-17T19:58:39Z

Breast lift or Mastopexy is a surgical procedure to raise and reshape sagging breasts. Mastopexy can also reduce the size of the areola. If the breasts are small and have lost volume breast implants inserted along with a Mastopexy can increase both firmness and their size. A breast lift can be performed at any age, but one has to wait until breast development has stopped. Since milk ducts and nipples are left intact, surgery will not affect your ability to breast feed. Breasts that are large and heavy can be lifted, but the results may not be as long lasting as it is done on smaller breasts.

Reasons for Under going a Breast Lift Surgery:
° Breasts that lack substance or firmness
° Some of the candidates have breasts that are pendulous, but are of satisfactory size
° Nipples and areolas that point downwards, especially if they are positioned below the breast crease
° Loss of elasticity, weight loss, pregnancy and breast-feeding affect the shape and firmness of the breasts

During your visit, you will be asked about your desired breast shape and size. Your plastic surgeon will tell you how nipples and areolas will be repositioned. Mention your expectations about your breasts. A plastic surgeon will examine your breasts and take measurements. The size and shape of your breasts and the placements of nipples and areolas will be carefully evaluated. Medical history will be discussed like medicine conditions, drug allergies, medical treatments received, and previous surgeries. If there was a weight loss, your weight should be stabilized before surgery.

Breast Reduction May Be the Answer for Overly Large Breasts

2009-10-16T15:47:02Z

Just as women can be self-conscious with under-developed breasts, large, heavy or hanging breasts can cause both embarrassments and difficulties all of their own. Surgeons understand that over-development of the breast can cause self-esteem issues, an inability to exercise, difficulty with posture, backache and unwanted attention.

Plastic Surgeons have spent many years perfecting the short scar approach to reduce the breast size, relieve the sagging and improve the breast contour and shape. The nipple is not removed or replaced. He will preserve ducts and sensation to the nipple, although some ability to breast-feed may be reduced. Scars are inconspicuous and can be easily covered by most bathing suits and low cut clothing.

Insurance plans may cover breast reduction surgery. However, denial by an insurance plan or a request by that plan for a harsh or excessive reduction prompts many patients to go outside the ordinary insurance coverage to seek help.

Breast Augmentation Surgery Explained

2009-10-15T03:17:09Z

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.

Daily Skin Care Is An Important Part Of Retaining A Youthful Appearance

2009-10-15T02:06:09Z

Day to day skin care of the face is equally important to one's appearance as peeling, resurfacing, and augmentation procedures.

Plastic Surgeons and Skin Care Specialists alike employ some of the latest and most effective methods of skin restoration available today. Only a qualified expert can provide such dermatological care. These processes use beautifying products that can remove any blemishes and discolorations while at the same time promoting the growth of new, healthy skin. The new cells will be rich in the natural chemicals that are necessary to make skin supple, yet strong. You’ll love your renewed vibrance!

Laser Skin Resurfacing
Time, sun, wind, and gravity all take their toll on the skin. The laser is the ultimate technology for precise aesthetic removal of deeper lines around the eyes, lips, cheeks and forehead. Some facial scars can also be improved with laser surgery. Your surgeon will review your medical history, examine your skin type and pigmentation to determine if laser resurfacing is appropriate for you.

Chemical Peels
Depending on one's goals, skin type and degree of skin aging you may benefit from any one of a variety of chemical peeling procedures. Different peeling agents will produce different degrees of skin penetration resulting in variable improvements in facial wrinkling and fine line improvement. Your plastic surgeon will review with you which peeling agent would be best for you.

Remember that any Cosmetic or Plastic Surgery procedure carries with it some level of risk. One should consult with a qualified and experienced specialist, and be sure to do his/her research prior to having your chosen procedure. There are many good websites on the internet offering information about plastic and cosmetic procedures. The best I have found is lookingyourbest.com- a free site that provides a wealth of in depth and accurate plastic surgery information.

What Changes Can I Expect From A Breast Augmentation Surgery in San Francisco?

2009-10-15T01:08:18Z

The most common reason for breast augmentation surgery is a desire for larger breasts. In general plastic surgeons not recommend cosmetic breast augmentation for women under 18 years of age. Many women requesting breast augmentation have lost breast volume after pregnancy and nursing or simply with aging.

WHAT CHANGES CAN BE EXPECTED?

The breasts will be larger. A sagging breast can be lifted The most appropriate size implant is determined after a physical examination and is a joint decision between you and your plastic surgeon. Some women want only a very small implant, to restore the breast size and perhaps shape they had before childbearing. A small percentage of women want very large breasts. This may not be advisable, because there may not be enough support in the breast tissues, and too large an implant in these women can cause thinning of the skin or increase the risk of "capsular contracture." This is a hardening of the breast caused by shrinkage of the normal scar envelope that the body makes around any implant.

Lip Augmentation Can Provide The Lips You Desire

2009-10-13T22:15:40Z

Lip augmentation procedures increase the size of the lips to make them fuller and can also be used to define the vermilion border of the lips. Upper and lower lips can be treated individually or at the same time.

Lip augmentation can be accomplished either surgically or with the injection of temporary (dermal) fillers. Autologous fat injections to the lips are a longer lasting alernative to the dermal fillers.

During the fat injection procedure, fat is harvested from another area of the body, usually the abdomen, and the fat is separated, purified and injected with small needles into the lips. Because not all of the fat will survive, the lips are over-corrected at first so that the final result will meet your expectations. The procedure can be done as an outpatient with some light sedation anesthesia. This is often performed in conjunction with other procedures. The result can last 6 months to several years. Occasionally patients may wish to repeat the procedure.

Blepharoplasty Surgery- What You Should Know

2009-10-10T23:13:15Z

Blepharoplasty, also known as eyelid surgery, involves the removal of fat usually along with excess skin and muscle from the upper and lower eyelids. Eyelid surgery can correct drooping upper lids and puffy bags below your eyes. These features may make you look older and more tired than you feel, and may even interfere with your vision. This procedure doesn't involve crow's feet or other wrinkles, eliminate dark circles under your eyes, or lift sagging eyebrows.

Candidates suitable for eyelid surgery:
Blepharoplasty can enhance your looks and give your self confidence but won't make you look entirely different. So be realistic in your expectations.

1. The best candidates for eyelid surgery are men and women who are physically healthy, psychologically stable.
2. Most are 35 or older.
3. If droopy, baggy eyelids run in your family, you may decide to have eyelid surgery at a younger age.
4. The medical conditions which make blepharoplasty more risky are thyroid problems such as hypothyroidism and graves' diseases, dry eye or lack of sufficient tears, high blood pressure or other circulatory disorders, cardiovascular disease.
5. If you have a detached retina or glaucoma. Check with your ophthalmologist before you have surgery.

When eyelid surgery is performed by a qualified plastic surgeon, complications are infrequent and usually minor. But you should always expect risks and discuss with your plastic surgeon about the pros and cons involved.

Blepharoplasty may take one to three hours. For this procedure, the plastic surgeon makes incisions following the natural lines of your eyelids; in the creases of your upper lids, and just below the lashes in your lower lids. The incisions can extend into the crow's feet or laugh lines at the outer corners of your eyes.

If you have a pocket of fat beneath your lower eyelids but don't need to have any skin removed, your plastic surgeon may perform a transconjunctival blepharoplasty. In this procedure the incision is made inside your lower eyelids, leaving no visible scar. It is usually performed on younger patients with thicker, more elastic skin.

Types of Face Lift Procedures

2009-10-09T22:01:41Z

The Mini Lift (also referred to as a Short scar face lift) is a less invasive procedure with a shorter recovery time than its more traditional cousin, the full face lift. The Mini face Lift is an ideal procedure for women who are just starting to note deepening lines on their face, sagging of the skin over their lower face and jaw line, and perhaps some laxity of their neck.

You may be a good candidate for this procedure if you are a woman in your early 40s and don't want to wait for noticeable signs of aging to alter your appearance. The Mini Lift is also a useful secondary procedure if you have previously had a face lift and are starting to notice the signs of age again making an appearance.

A Modified Face Lift is the right choice if you are a woman in your late 40s or early 50s and notice more laxity in your face and neck but still not very much. You surgeon will help you determine whether you are the right candidate for this procedure.

In a Modified Face Lift, the incision made to the face is similar to the Mini Lift but extends behind the ear, and there may be need for an additional incision under the chin. This allows Dr. Lofman to reposition the fallen soft tissues and tighten the lax neck muscles as well as remove more redundant skin than a Mini-Lift would allow.

The Full Face Lift is designed for you if older than 55 or have significant laxity of the soft tissues of your face and neck. While it requires a longer incision, skillful surgical technique ensures the incision is placed inconspicuously.

The Full Face Lift effectively restores your youthful appearance and should give you back at least 15 years that time has taken away. This is achieved by tightening the underlying lax muscles, doing so in a way that does not leave the typical signs of a face lift.

A face lift may also be combined with other facial procedures such as eyelid surgery or a brow lift. During your private consultation with your chosen plastic surgeon, he/she will explain in full detail the varying aspects of these different procedures and what other techniques may be available to help you achieve realistic results.

So What Are Dermal fillers?

2009-10-09T18:13:17Z

Filler agent treatments for facial aging are one of the most rapidly growing areas of cosmetic medicine. When a plastic surgeon evaluates patients who desire facial rejuvenation, they consider a three prong approach. Surgery and skin care can be vital to obtaining the best result, but the third prong includes fillers. They are a wonderful adjunct in many patients. They can improve the result of surgery in most, but in some, fillers can provide enough improvement that surgery can be delayed.

So what are Dermal fillers? They are products designed to be injected into the skin to correct and soften lines or furrows. They can also be used to increase lip volume. There is a dizzying array of products available that are made from different substances. Some products are derived from animals, and other from cadavers. Still others are bio-engineered. I currently prefer Juvederm. It is made from a substance called hyaluronic acid, which is a natural component of human skin. There is no risk of allergy, so skin testing is not required in advance of treatment. It is a gel formulation, unlike some earlier generation products that are particulate in character. The gel injects smoothly and does not result in lumps or bumps under the skin.

In the past, the lack of longevity of result was a concern for many patients considering filler treatments. Juvederm generally lasts between nine and twelve months in the vast majority of patients. While it is not permanent, most things in life do require maintenance.

Types of Breast Implants

2009-10-08T23:18:06Z

Saline Breast Implants - The saline implant has an exterior sack made of solid silicone, which is filled with a sterile saline solution — like the salt-water solution that is administered for intravenous fluids. One of the advantages of this solution is its safety. Should the implant for some reason leak, the saline just gets absorbed by your body, as would the intravenous fluids used during, and after surgery. Yet another advantage of the saline breast implants is a very low infection rate, which is usually less than one to two percent.

Silicone Breast Implants - These are implants that are filled with a silicone gel. More than 1.5 million American women currently have silicone breast implants. Some people feel that the silicone implant results in a more natural appearing breast.

Cohesive Gel Implants - Cohesive gel implants are silicone implants that are filled with a thicker silicone gel that holds its shape and form like a "gummy bear." If you cut into a standard gel implant, the liquid silicone gel escapes from the implant shell. In contrast, when you cut into a cohesive gel implant, the implant itself maintains its shape and integrity. These shaped implants are designed with a focus upon a natural look, rather than for enlargement. Furthermore, gummy bear implants maintain their shape in an upright position that decreases the incidence of folding of the implant shell or rippling. If a cohesive gel implant ruptures, it maintains both its shape and integrity.

View Breast Implant Surgery Before and After Photos

It is always a good idea to make sure one does research prior to having any surgical procedure. Anyone considering Breast Enhancement surgery should first consult with a qualified specialist such as California Plastic Surgeon Dr John Griffin. There are many excellent websites on the internet that provide good information about breast enhancement. The best one I have found is Lookingyourbest.com- a free website that boasts a wealth of plastic surgery information and even offers a free service to help you locate a skilled and experienced doctor in your area.