Evolence: A New Cosmetic Procedure or Miracle?

By Andrew W John

The protein which is largely responsible for the elasticity of your skin, collagen is depleted as we age; and this leads to the wrinkling which is common as we get older. This collagen depletion and wrinkling can be sped up by various factors such as smoking, exposure to the sun and hereditary factors. By using a collagen based dermal filler; you can return your skin to a vibrant, youthful look and feel.

Evolence is a new dermal filler which can give you smooth, youthful looking skin by replacing your depleted collagen. Unlike many dermal filling procedures, Evolence begins working almost at once and the effects last between six months to a year. There is little to no bruising or swelling caused by this procedure and no skin testing needs to be done before beginning the procedure.

Some other benefits of Evolence over other collagen fillers are that it does not need to be refrigerated, making it easier to store. It does not contain anesthetic, unlike bovine based collagen. Evolence is porcine-based because pig skin is most like human tissue. This makes the collagen more durable, pliable and the skin softer. Instead of using chemicals, Evolence uses natural sugar to increase the durability. Evolence is also a less concentrated product than other fillers. Evolence is to be injected into the upper to mid dermis. This is where your smile lines are located, from the nose to the corners of the mouth.

This product is relatively new to the United States, but has found wild popularity in Canada, Europe, and Israel. Many dermatologists think that once truly discovered here, it will quickly surpass other collagen fillers because of its radical, lasting results.

This revolution in skin care is now available - Evolence was approved by the FDA in June of this year; now everyone can gain the benefits of Evolence. - 30516

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Fight against Aging with Botox Injections

By Adriana Noton

As we age, our skin becomes susceptible to elements that can cause damage and premature aging. Conditions such as harsh environmental elements, chemicals and additives in our personal care products, as well as a lack of sleep and a poor diet can all contribute to premature aging and skin damage. Millions of people are now looking for ways to combat the signs of skin aging. On such method that has become very popular is the use of botox injections.

Botox injections are when a bacterium clostridium botulinum is injected into the muscle of the face that controls lines in the forehead and the fine lines around the eyes. The botox tighten muscles thereby removing wrinkles and fine lines. The results are smoother skin with no wrinkles or lines and a younger looking appearance. A local anesthetic is not usually used because the pain is minimal. Allergic reactions do not often appear with the use of botox.

Side effects of botox injections are very minimal. There are a few instances of a bit of swelling and redness around the injection site and there is no recovery time. One can go back to their regular routine right after having the injection. Some individuals have reported a small amount of bruising, nausea, and headaches after an injection but they go away quite quickly.

The effects of botox injections are not permanent so repeated injections are often carried out. One injection can last from 3 to 4 months. Botox injections are an FDA approved treatment for the removal or reduction of wrinkles and "frown" lines. It is a much more affordable method of fighting skin aging than surgery, and it is a very effective treatment for laugh lines and crow's feet.

Botox injections are a quick procedure which only takes about 10 minutes. The muscles start to relax within 1 to 3 days of the treatment. So that is when one may start seeing the results. Botox injections are not recommended for pregnant mothers, if there is an infection, and people with neuromuscular conditions. Botox is a drug that should only be administered by qualified medical professionals. Botox parties are popular, but it can be risky to have a novice inject you with a drug like botox.

We all want to slow the visible signs of aging. Many of us go to great lengths to reduce the negative effects. Our skin is one of the first places that start to show the visible signs of aging. As well, our lifestyle and harmful chemicals and pollutants in the environment and in products that we use daily, speeds up the signs of aging. The results are skin creases, wrinkles, crow's feet, and fine lines. Taking care of our skin has become a natural part of our daily health routine. Botox injections have also become a popular way to fight the signs of aging. They allow one to effectively remove the visible signs of aging without surgery, and in a very short time. Botox injections are a great choice for people who want to slow the effects of aging quickly without a huge expense and major side effects. - 30516

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The Tummy Tuck: Is It Safe?

By Andrew W John

Perhaps the best way to shape a tummy, when diet and exercise will not work, may be a procedure called Abdominoplasty. Commonly referred to as a tummy tuck, this procedure involves an operation to removed excess skin or fat and possibly even tightens up or brings the abdominal muscles closer. Some tummy tucks are a simple operation that involves reshaping the skin on the stomach. While more invasive surgery may include removal of fat under or above the muscle wall, repositioning the belly button, and even stitching the muscles together.

More and more people have chosen to have a tummy tuck because it is safe and has also become more affordable in the recent years. This is anywhere between twenty-five hundred dollars up to eighty-five hundred dollars. A big factor in price depends upon who you choose to perform the operation, and also the time and complexity of the tummy tuck. Also, medical tests, room cost, surgeon fees, operation room, anesthesiologists, and post surgery will all affect the total cost.

Tummy tucks are becoming more popular because more surgeons are now starting to offer different financing plans to pay for the surgery. This helps out a lot of people whose insurance carriers will not pay for any or all of it. Also be aware that you will have to tell your insurance company about you tummy tuck, as it may increase your future insurance premiums.

The reason why some undergo a tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is because of pregnancy in women or men after a gastric bypass surgery. The procedure's recovery time will all depend on the complexity of your operation, which can be altered due to many reasons.

You will experience some pain after the procedure, but most the pain medication prescribed by the doctor will take care of that. You will also experience swelling and scarring at the site. Your doctor should also prescribe or suggest medication for this. You can expect the severity of these symptoms to last for only the first few weeks.

The normal recovery period for a tummy tuck is only a few weeks. However, if you want to speed this time up, make sure not to stretch or put much strain on the abdominals because this will cause an accumulation of fluids, therefore lengthening the recovery time.

There are three stages to the recovery process. First, you must stay in the hospital so that they can monitor you for the first few days, usually three days. This is to ensure there are no complications, such as a dangerous clot. Second, you may be sent home or to a post operational care facility. This includes complete bed rest, often three weeks or more, during this time you must have assistance to bath, dress the wound, and other necessary functions. Lastly, you doctor may give you detailed instructions for caring for your new tummy in the long run. These may include how to maintain the size and shape through diet and exercise, as well and tips to prevent hernias.

Other things to keep in mind about recovery and aftercare may include how strong your abdominal muscles were before surgery, and the unique way your body handles the healing process, which includes scaring. If you have strong abdominal muscles going into surgery, you can expect the healing process to go much more quickly and smoothly. If you do not have a regular diet and exercise plan prior to surgery, then you may experience a slower progression. You can also expect scaring and swelling for 6 months or more after surgery, so don't plan this for that summer beach body contest this year, but maybe next year you can hit the beach!

You should research your chosen surgeon and hospital well and this includes the procedures and after care policies they offer. Fining a great surgeon, hospital, and plan isn't all you need. You should check with their history for doing this type of surgery, how long they have been doing it and consider both positive and negative feedback from their clients and the health administration. - 30516

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Stretch Marks - Even the Name Sounds Ugly

By Robert Smith

I don't think I know one person who likes stretch marks. Even the least vain person on earth wouldn't wish to have them. Nevertheless, you have them. And if you don't you will! Why do we get these marks?

You have three layers of skin on your body: The epidermis, dermis, and the hypodermis. I know this isn't physiology class, but you need to know this. Even though you see stretch marks on the top layer of your skin, the stretching occurs underneath in the middle, dermis layer of your skin. The middle layer, the dermis, is where the collagen and elasticity are & where the stretching takes place.

The tears in your dermis are really marks of inequality of your dermis. This uneven look actually doesn't hurt much, but it does look bad. Remember, these are not scars on the epidermis layer. Scars are made of fibrotic tissue which is simply not present in stretch marks.

The dermis is elastic. These special fibers are what allow your skin to stretch. Rapid growth can weaken your skin's elasticity and can break the fibers that hold it together. The stretch marks occur when the skin grows faster than these elastic fibers can handle.

Poor diet and improper nutrition also hurts the body and can actually cause stretch marks too! Even smoking can weaken the ability for the skin to stretch. Alone, these factors don't usually cause stretch marks unless you have some body growth to go along with it.

Stretch marks are very common problems associated with pregnancy because this is a period of rapid growth for women. Any period of rapid weight gain will most likely be accompanied by stretch marks and they are common factors in obesity. However, it is possible for heredity to be a factor as some people have proven more prone to stretch marks than others.

What the stretch marks look like have more to do with how recent you got them rather than where they are on your body. If they are red and purple, it is early in the stretch mark process. If they are white or lighter than your skin, then it is usually the later stages of those initial marks.

If you don't like pain, don't worry. Stretch marks at any age do not hurt. We get them after we lose our baby fat, or enter or leave puberty. If you can keep a healthy diet, it will help you not have these weight swings, which will help your cause as well. Good luck!! - 30516

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The Essential Steps to Take To Prevent Adverse Reactions from Liposuction

By Jennifer Hayman

Nowadays, many people are getting busier thinking of ways on how to look sexy and more appealing. Liposuction becomes one of the major surgeries one thinks of as the major key to this mission. However, it is very important that you equip yourself first with the proper knowledge that you need to know about the operation. Despite the high probability of success, too many patients fail to understand how it is performed and the possible side effects that can occur.

Hence, if you were thinking twice of whether or not you wanted to pursue this operation, being knowledgeable about it would make the decision process that much easier. If you can prepare yourself emotionally and physically for the surgery, it increases the changes that you will have a complication free surgery. With that said, the main problem experienced by patients happens when huge amounts of fat are taken out of one area.

This could further lead to saggy skin and other disturbing flaws. Another difficulty is encountered when liposuction is done on various parts of the body simultaneously. Still many patients choose to do this so they can save time and money.

Nevertheless, this method can really lead to many complications. When the targeted areas are too many, this means greater amounts of anesthesia need to be applied. On a medical note, it is not advisable to be exposed to too much anesthesia since this could cause you negative results and side effects.

Three of the leading side effects you can get from liposuction are numbness, skin discoloration, and scarring. The more serious complications that can transpire would be some intense bleeding, infection, and blood clotting. However, the possibility of these last three complications threatening the patient's life is less likely to happen.

Not all these possible side effects can ever be guaranteed to be entirely prevented. Nevertheless, the good thing is that there are ways that patients can minimize the probability of complications. The first thing to do is to select the right surgeon. Choose one who is well experienced by researching their career backgrounds and how good they have performed in their past operations.

Another step is to keep yourself healthy before you undergo the operation. It is advisable that you eat properly and exercise well to have a good immune system and resistance to infections. This will greatly aid in your healing to transpire faster.

Finally, it is recommended that you openly discuss any health concerns you have with the surgeon. This conversation should focus on your health history and any medication, but it could include other issues pertaining to your health. - 30516

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Questions Before a Facelift - Look Here

By D.J. Verret, MD

Facelift surgery helps to correct some of the signs of aging which show in the face including formation of jowls and facial wrinkles. For as many people as have undergone facelift surgery, there are as many concerns about the procedure. Many rumors and questions surround the procedure - some are true, some are not.

A facelift is a painful surgery. False. The procedure itself is always done with some type of anesthesia. This can range from local anesthesia where the person is awake and the injections can be felt to general anesthesia where the person is completely asleep. Some facelift techniques can also be done with sedation, or twilight, anesthesia. This gives the best of both worlds - a lack of recall but not having some of the more common side effects of general anesthetics.

Unfortunately the media has paid a great deal of attention to celebrities who have undergone facelift surgery with less than satisfactory results showing a pulled or 'wind-blown' look. This is the exception rather than the rule. In the hands of a qualified and experienced surgeon, facelift surgery produces natural results. You can walk by a patient who has had a facelift and will not likely know that they have had anything done.

I don't want to be put to sleep. While a common concern, current general anesthesia techniques are quite safe for patients without significant medical illnesses. If this is a significant concern, talk with your surgeon about alternatives to general anesthesia. There are many options available and different facelift techniques for these options. While not a possibility for everyone, some facelift techniques can even be done with just local anesthesia.

As with any surgical procedure, consultation with a qualified and experienced surgeon is the first step toward making a decision. It is important to research the credential of the person with whom you are trusting your face. Sit down and talk with the surgeon about your concerns, expectations, and questions. Make sure that the risks and expected results are clearly explained. While there are no guarantees with medical procedures, having a clear picture of what to expect is critical in ensuring that you get the best results possible. - 30516

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About Facial Liposuction

By Mike Chang

Facial liposuction is cosmetic surgery which is done on the face to reduce the amount of extra fat. It is surgery in which extra fat is sucked out of the body usually under the chin using a suction apparatus. It is a widely used technique to remove the double chin. Several people ask the query that why do we need a facial liposuction at all? There are many answers to that question depending on how you want to look at it.

Many people always dream of looking like a Hollywood actor or actress. Though they cannot look like them but liposuction is one way through which you can improve the way you look. You can remove that extra fat which is uneven or hanging from your neck. Not only does it give you a better look it also boosts the inner confidence of the person. The other reason why this is becoming so popular is that it is cheaper than other cosmetic surgeries and recovery time is pretty less.

Many people are found to have that excess fat tissue in their face which makes them look overweight, older or just less balanced and attractive. Liposuction comes as a solution to these issues. The most common issues which are taken care of facial liposuction plastic surgery are sagging jowls, double chin, bags beneath the eyes, heavy, worn upper eye area and excess fat around the neck.

Till some time back when liposuction technique was not available, the plastic surgery procedures were very complex, painful and invasive. The surgeons had to make long incisions under the neck and even the outcome was not perfect. Many people were not satisfied with the outcome even after paying hefty price for the surgery.

But using liposuction or lipoplasty, the surgery is least painful, very incisions need to made and the recovery time has been reduced from months to only a few days. These are the reasons due to which facial liposuction has become very popular all over the world. - 30516

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Facial Liposuction

By Mike Chang

Facial liposuction is cosmetic surgery which is done on the face to reduce the amount of extra fat. It is surgery in which extra fat is sucked out of the body usually under the chin using a suction apparatus. It is a widely used technique to remove the double chin. Several people ask the query that why do we need a facial liposuction at all? There are many answers to that question depending on how you want to look at it.

Many people always dream of looking like a Hollywood actor or actress. Though they cannot look like them but liposuction is one way through which you can improve the way you look. You can remove that extra fat which is uneven or hanging from your neck. Not only does it give you a better look it also boosts the inner confidence of the person. The other reason why this is becoming so popular is that it is cheaper than other cosmetic surgeries and recovery time is pretty less.

Various people are found to have that glut fat tissue in their face which makes them look heavy, older or just less balanced and attractive. Liposuction comes as a answer to these issues. The most common issues which are taken care of facial liposuction plastic surgery are bags beneath the eyes, heavy, worn upper eye area, sagging jowls, double chin, and excess fat around the neck.

Until a few years back when liposuction method did not exist, the plastic surgery process were very complicated, painful and invasive. The doctors had to make long and deep cuts under the neck and even after this surgery; the outcome was less than perfect. A lot of people were not content with the result even after paying hefty price for the surgery.

But using liposuction or lipoplasty, the surgery is not painful at all, very few incisions are required and therefore the recovery time has been reduced from months to only a few days. These are the reasons because of which facial liposuction has become very famous around the world. - 30516

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Remove Facial Lines And Wrinkles With Botox

By Mark Walters

Did you ever wonder why so many people today are receiving Botox treatments? Well, it is not just a result of superficial whims. The more intense sunlight that we see these days has increased the amount of lines and wrinkles that develop on our faces.

Besides sunlight causing skin aging, it also results in you having to squint, which in turn, creates wrinkling around the eyes prematurely, says medical cosmetic practitioner Dr Mariusz Gajewski of Star Cosmetic Medicine in New South Wales, Australia.

Dr Gajewski went on to explain that there are three main causes for skin aging. First off, the collagen and elastin fibres that keep your skin smooth and firm are damaged by exposure to the sun. Next, the sun's UV rays cause modifications to skin texture and pigmentation. And finally, the apparent movement of muscles below the skin's surface that add to the lines.

The first two of these three issues can be largely prevented by the use of good quality sun protection, but that solution has no effect on the the third issue. To repair the damage done by the sun to our facial muscle movements, Botox treatment is required.

The most frequent areas for Botox injections are in the upper part of the forehead, the "frown" point between the eyebrows and the outer corner of the eyes. Depending on your age, and how much time you spend in the sun, you may have already noticed these problem areas on your own face.

For some people, the lines and wrinkles on their face show permanently, whilst others are slightly better off in that they only appear when they make certain facial expressions. However, once lines and wrinkles have started to develop as part of some facial expressions, the facial muscles will begin to adapt and before long they will probably be permenant.

Having botox injections to improve your looks and self confidence is a relatively simple procedure to undergo. A doctor will makes a series of injections into the affected areas, and you can go home the same day. How many rounds of injections you need is dependent on how many, and how deep, your lines and wrinkles are; if you only suffer mildly from them, you may only need one lot of injections.

You do not have to concerned about side effects, as they are minor at worst. The most common problems are temporary bruising, swelling and pinprick pain at the injection site, explains Dr Mariusz Gajewski. These minor side effects last for just 24-48 hours are uncomfortable, rather than painful.

The only real problem with botox injections is when they are over used, so act with caution. Having the right amount of treatment will leave you looking fresher and revitalized, but have too much and you will look somewhat plastic and inexpressive.

If you would like Botox injections, remember that you need someone with the expertise and experience to determine where and how much to inject. Dr Mariusz Gajewski of Sydney's Star Cosmetic Medicine suggests asking your GP or dermatologist for a recommendation. - 30516

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Liposuction for Men

By Adam Togo

People generally relate plastic surgery to women. But today the number of men who seek liposuction is rising day-by-day especially in metropolitan areas like New York and Los Angeles. A liposuction conducted on a man is, however, different from that on a woman; the major difference being the cost on procedure involved. Liposuction on men is more expensive than on women on account of the various requests put forth by them.

The reason is a very general assumption that men are generally larger in size than women. Since liposuction prices are determined based on the amount of work required of the surgeon larger areas will cost more than smaller areas. So for a man to get the same procedure as a woman, in general, the man will have more area and therefore cost more.

Similarly, the dosage of anesthesia requirement is lower for smaller areas to be covered under surgery. On account of this reason most of the liposuction surgeries require local anesthesia that do not call for the administration by a professional anesthetist. The lower dosage of anesthesia and the absence of anesthesiologist can make a huge difference to the final cost of liposuction, pulling the true expenditure lower.

However, the increased cost of the procedure in men is mainly on account of the biological difference between them. The fat cells in men are more fibrous and tougher making the task of removing them more time consuming. This is another reason as to why the men are charged more for liposuction than women.

The request for treatment in areas that are more fibrous than other parts of the body made by men, results in larger cost. Parts of the body that requires greater effort to get eliminated through exercise and dieting like the chest, abdomen and love handles at the sides of the waist are generally reduced through liposuction.

It is important to receive some form of consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon before proceeding to the actual surgery. Liposuction for men as well as women require that the patient be carefully evaluated for all health purposes to avoid any unnecessary risk of complications. Even though laser liposuction is the popular procedure for the areas that men tend to request and is a very safe technique in its own right. - 30516

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Learn About Liposculpture Cosmetic Surgery Procedures

By Pier Montague

Even though liposculpture is an elective surgery it is not something to be taken lightly. This is for the purpose of sucking out fat from the excessive fatty areas of the human body. The areas that need attention are usually the buttocks, stomach, back of the arms, back of the thighs, and the sides.

How the procedure is usually performed is by using a tube and inserting it into the fatty area of the collected fat and then an aspirator on the tube withdraws the unwanted fat. It is a common practice to then inject fluids into the area where the fat is removed for the purpose of adding salts and breaking up the fat cells. To help with internal strain a local anesthesia is also injected.

If you need to lose a lot of weight this is not your answer. Many people think this procedure is a short-cut to losing unwanted fat but this is not true and if it were possible it would be extremely harmful. The truth of the matter is that only those patients who are fit are candidates for the procedure and it is just because they have a small place that they have not been able to lose fat through any other means. The procedure will only remove less than ten pounds of fat.

Liposculpture is not about a cure for a health issue but rather a fix for the ego. Some risks do exist with any procedure and these have the potential of becoming something serious. Most patients feel that the small risks involved are heavily outweighed by the benefits they will get from the procedure.

There is a small chance the where the fat is removed there will be damage to the skin and it could end up being malformed or just lumpy which is not what anyone wants to happen. With any liposculpture procedure there is going to be swelling where the tube was inserted and also scarring and bruising from the tube. This makes it a risk of having a fluid imbalance which will damage an internal organ or the skin. Any time this happens there could be the clotting of blood as a result and this could lead to something more dangerous.

Patients know the risks involved and still feel that the surgery is best for them and their needs. There are actually different types of procedures that are either liposculpture or non liposculpture that should be taken into account. It is always a good idea to do a lot of research and it is easy to find tons of information online.

You will want to find a professional that is in your area who has an exemplary record. You will also want to know what are the best choices for you and the worst case scenarios for cosmetic surgery. Compare all the information you gather carefully. When you have narrowed down your options you will want to take into consideration the price of the surgery. Once you have the best procedure for you purpose at the best pricing available in your area remember that you should never take any kind of cosmetic surgery lightly. - 30516

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How To Speed Up Liposuction Recovery?

By Craig Lipper

The period of liposuction recovery is very crucial. The period just after the liposuction surgery can be very uncomfortable for the patient. Most people experience different levels of pains, swelling, burning as well as temporary numbness in the area which is treated for liposuction.

The liposuction recovery period can be anywhere between a few days to a few months depending upon the nature of liposuction surgery and the size of area treated by surgery. Usually the patients are able to get back to work in a week or so but the full recovery may take as long as six months.

After liposuction operation, the patient may be uncomfortable and nauseated for one to 2 days which is expected. So, it is vital that the patient is accompanied by a buddy or family member during this period. During this period, the patient may need help while walking or going to the restroom. He also needs someone to give him regular medication. It is usual to see some amount of blood tinged tumescent fluid flowing out of the incision areas therefore the patient should not panic. This will stop in a few days.

There are many steps which can be taken to speed up the liposuction recovery process. These include taking rest as needed the day after the surgery. The patient should wear the compression garment as suggested by the doctor. He should drink adequate amounts of liquids to prevent dehydration. Absolutely avoid alcohol and acidic or oily food. If diabetic, monitor your sugar level regularly. You can do gentle fingertip massage on affected areas, three times daily, for three to six weeks. Never apply heating pads or ice packs on operated area after operation.

If you do the above mentioned things, you will be able to recover from the liposuction procedure in quick time. The recovery will be fast and you will come back to your normal life in no time at all. Since you have spent so much on liposuction, it is vital that you take care of your health after operation so that you can see the desired results in your body for which you had to undergo this surgery. - 30516

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Tips For Preparation For Eyelid Surgery

By Daniel Craig

Eyelid surgery or the Blepharoplasty surgery is a technique to neutralize the effect of the droopy eyelids and the surgery is aimed to get you the youthful look. . That said there are a lot of things that you should do before the operation and after the operation.

Before you go in for the surgery make sure that you have done adequate research on the surgeon's credentials. Your look post surgery really depends on the efficacy of the surgeon and in case the surgeon is not capable enough then you will have very depressing experience. The other thing that you need to do is to tie up the finances. You can get financing easily if you so wish as there are a lot of specialized financing companies available who will be able to loan you the money.

After the surgery the major challenge is the rest. You should be avoiding having to watch the television and make sure that you rest your eyes for at least two three days. That will help heal the sutures fast and also will make sure that you are able to join back to work fast. Also in case you feel the pain then go straight to the surgeon rather than waiting as there may be some complications which the surgeon only can take care of.

Another essential thing to do after the operation is to make sure that you have the best lotions applied on the stitches to let them heal. There are special lotions available for application on sutures. Also get the plastic surgeon advice on which cream to apply.

Looking good and beautiful is essential for sure however make sure that your expectations are not sky high as that can lead to depression later on. It is important to keep yourself grounded to realities when you are going in for the cosmetic surgery procedures. - 30516

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Laser Liposuction Reduces Risks

By Adam Togo

The most widely performed plastic surgery procedure is liposuction. There are many reasons for this but primarily it is because people want to look good without putting in the effort to exercise and diet because that requires a lifestyle change. Laser liposuction further reduces the risks typically involved in traditional liposuction procedures on many levels. The most common issue with liposuction is the bleeding and trauma that is caused to surrounding tissue of the treated area. Laser liposuction does wonder in minimizing most of these problems.

The traditional liposuction makes use of the physical force to break up the fat cells before extracting the excess fat from the body, resulting in the bleeding. Laser liposuction, on the other hand, employs optical fibers that generate laser beams to produce heat. The heat emission from the laser is made to melt the fat besides drying up the broken blood capillaries, if any, during the surgical procedure. It is on account of this reason the amount of bleeding is much less in laser liposuction that in the traditional method.

Liposuction might result in common side effects that occur on account of inadequate drainage of the treated area. When the blood collects under the skin, it causes transitory bruising known as hematomas and seromas. Even though the formation of these conditions is momentary and non-lethal, the mere presence can create a gloomy and scary picture in the minds of the patient who is recuperating in the house away from the presence of doctor.

Proper draining is essential to minimize side effects and improve the time taken for recovery. The minimal presence of these side effects in an individual, who underwent laser liposuction, on account of lesser injury to the blood vessels and capillaries, makes it more effective.

Laser liposuction offers patients quick recovery time as well as a much less painful way to remove unwanted body fat. There can also be significant savings in the cost of liposuction due to the difference of scale and method that laser liposuction offers.

Learn about how to find a board certified plastic surgeon if you are considering laser liposuction. Remember, liposuction prices includes more than just financials and it is important that we reduce health risks as much as possible for any procedure. Always factor in the level of risk into the overall cost of liposuction. - 30516

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Tips to Recover Smoothly from a Breast Surgery

By Adriana Noton

Many women take for granted that getting breast implants is an actual surgical procedure. The term "cosmetic" may lure them into a false idea of what cosmetic surgery is and what it can do. There is for example, the idea that getting breast surgery is simple and that the recovery process will be a cakewalk.

While breast surgery may not be as difficult as, say, rehabilitating from hip replacement surgery, a breast enhancement operation is just that: an operation. It will have some inherent risks as well as a somewhat lengthy recovery time. That said, a woman who receives breast implants can do a lot to speed along her own recovery.

After Breast Augmentation Surgery

Post surgery, patients are often wheeled into a hospital room where they are monitored until they awaken and are fully alert. Depending on how the surgery went, you may stay there for 24 hours or less. If an infection develops, the stay could be longer until the condition abates.

Recipients of breast implants may find that they are wearing a compression garment around their upper torso when they awake. They will also be swollen and bruised and feel a bit of pain. This is natural and more often than not, the pain is managed via medication.

A spouse or responsible adult will later drive you home from the hospital. This is true in all instances, as clinics will not release patients who do not have someone available to get them safely to their homes.

In Home Care

Once home, the woman will need to take care of herself and her newly acquired breast implants. More often than not she'll have received a list of instructions from the doctor that would include how to take care of sutures and/or stitches and how to dress any wounds.

Wearing a compression garment or binding the breasts down with bandages is a very important aspect of in home after care. Doing this helps minimize pain or problems with the incisions by keeping breasts in one place so they don't jostle around.

The doctor will also suggest putting hot and cold compresses in swollen areas for 48 hours to limit bruising and swelling. There will also be a surgical drain at the incision site to keep fluid build up from occurring. Depending on how well the operation went you could have the drain for a few days or a few weeks. Consistently emptying the bulb-like extension of the drain of its collected fluids will go a long way in aiding recuperative efforts, especially if you remain vigilant.

Keeping the incision site dry and clean will also help speed along recovery. Incisions should stay primarily bandaged and free of lotions and creams as well, as this can reduce risk of painful inflammation.

An Ounce of Prevention

By maintaining a proper in-home ritual, any woman who has breast surgery can spring back quickly from her breast enhancement surgery. Just be sure to ask questions regarding your after treatment role and the steps necessary to ensure a great outcome. In this way, you will become your own health advocate and the responsibility for your recovery and well being will remain in your own hands! - 30516

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Introduction To Laser Eyelid Surgery

By Craig Lipper

Eyelid surgery is also called as the blepharoplasty. In this the look of the person is changed by making sure that the droopy eyelids are gone and the excess fat is sucked out. The upper eyelids or the lower eyelids both can be resurrected but the fact is that it is the upper eyelid that gives more of an old age look.

That said there have been techniques that are out there to correct the upper and the lower eyelids. The traditional way is to correct the eyelids is that you will need to have the big incision in between the folds of the eyelids and then use that incision to suck out the excess fat.

Once the fat is out then you will have to make sure that the eyelid is sutured again in such a manner that the incision is not visible. The laser technology has helped get over this as the targeted laser will help make a very small incision. This incision will be used to suck out the excess fat. The incision is so targeted and small that it will not be visible to anyone at all.

That translates into the fact that you will be able to go back to work the very next day. There is no major precautions that need to be there in the case of the laser Blepharoplasty. Now the major decision that you will have to make is that whether you will want to have the laser done or not as it is definitely costly and expensive than the traditional surgery.

The main point here is the expectations. Keep them realistic and make sure that you discuss your expectations with the doctor. This will help you to avoid the depression later on if things do not turn out the way you wanted. - 30516

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Medical Spa Estheticians & Patient Charting

By Kylie J. Peterson

Estheticians coming from the traditional day spa industry into the medical spa environment have to learn and understand an entirely new way of documenting information as a 'client' transforms into a 'patient'.

New Medical Aestheticians who in the past only needed to be able to simply stamp a time and date on treatment forms with occasional side notes, are now expected to correctly chart anything that happens during every patient interaction. In addition to patient charting comes new medical treatment consent forms, HIPPA Forms, photography consent forms, anatomical charting forms, and others.

Anyone who has contact with a patient, in immediate regards to their treatments, should be charting everything from follow-up phone calls, to letters mailed, to topicals used and the patient's response, to laser settings and the patient's response, patch tests, follow up appointments, and patient's tolerances to therapies.

The once client file has now transformed into a medical record by all standards which could stand up in a court of law. Some aestheticians I have spoken with have not learned the art of charting and feel they should not be required to do so.

Why is it so important you ask? Unfortunately, there have been more horror stories hitting the media than stories of healing and hope, especially when it comes to therapies that involve lasers. These unfortunate circumstances are a catalyst of change to laser laws across the U.S. Whether the MD is on site or off, they (along with the therapist) can be held liable for any legal implications filed by a patient at the hands of a clinician or aesthetician.

While it may seem harsh, even the most skilled and brilliant esthetician should be terminated if they refuse to properly chart and document a patient's care. The rule of thumb is just this... if you didn't chart it, it didn't happen.

If you're performing medical treatments it's up to you to know what your facility's requirements are for charting, and what implications can arise if you fail to comply. - 30516

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Click Fraud & Your Medical Spa Marketing Budget.

By Kylie J. Peterson

Is click fraud costing your medical spa? If you're one of the tens of thousands of cosmetic medical practices, skin clinics and medical spas advertising online with Google Adwords, it's likely that at least some of the money you're paying every month is sucked out of your marketing fund by click fraud.

This practice, known as "click fraud," began in the early days of the Internet's mainstream popularity with programs that automatically surfed Web sites to increase traffic figures. This led companies to develop policing technologies touted as antidotes to the problem. But some marketing executives estimate that up to 20 percent of fees in certain advertising categories continue to be based on nonexistent consumers in today's search industry.

Don't think it's already happening to your skin clinic, med spa or laser clinic? It is. Here's a quote from Michael Caruso, CEO of click fraud services vendor ClickFacts in an interview:

"In particularly fraud prone verticals such as finance, class action lawsuits and medical, we see click fraud rates in the 30-45 perecent range. These are all categories that see high keyword pricing in the auction model. That makes them particularly tasty for click fraud artists. "If you can make more money from the dark side than the light side of search, there are plenty of people who will take advantage. Plus, it's not even technically illegal yet."

There are two main ways that your laser clinics and med spas marketing budget is being drained by click fraud:

First, your skin clinics and medical spas competitors who see your ad are simply clicking on it, draining your marketing budget and costing you advertising dollars. Second, fraudsters set up 'affiliate sites' that run skin clinics ads where they are clicked on by bots or employees. (These sites are the most damaging since you're paying for every click without any return at all. Click fraud around skin clinics, med spas or laser clinics can be very lucrative since dermatology or plastic surgery clinics are becoming such a competitive market and the payment per click can be as high as $4-6.)

To keep your laser clinics budget protected you have very few tools. (Google just gave advertisers $90 million to compensate for click fraud as the result of a class action suit but you can bet they're not that Google's not interested in your individual account.)

Start by limiting your exposure to click fraud. If your dermatology or plastic surgery clinic is still running an Adwords or Yahoo campaign, they allow you to limit the maximum amount you spend in a day. Take advantage of this feature by limiting your maximum cost to what you can afford to spend. You can also look for the tracks of click fraud by examining the reports you might have available to you. Multiple clicks coming from the same IP address are a sure sign of fraud.

Malaysia has become such a haven for click fraud 'sweat-shops' that clicks generated there are completely discounted and Malaysian accounts for Adwords or Overture are not granted.

If you're going to run ppc ads it's up to you to protect your skin clinic, med spa or laser clinic. - 30516

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Risks And Complications In Undergoing Blepharoplasty

By Mark Lazarus

After the age of 40 the eyelids in most people will tend to have droopy eyelids and the reason for those droopy eyelids is the loose muscles. To overcome that you can get the eyelid surgery done. In this the doctor will get the excess fat out and tighten the droopy eyelids. This will help you get a very beautiful and youthful look.

Eyelid surgery is not tough but that said there are a lot complications and risks that come with this kind of cosmetic procedure. The major risk that is there is that doctors may not be experienced enough. This is true in case of the ethnic population. The ethnic population may be that of Asian, Japanese, Korean or Vietnamese origin. If the doctor is not expert with the face construct of an Asian then the end result that will come out will not be a happy one for you

To eliminate this risk make sure that you select a surgeon who specializes in ethnic eyelid surgery. The other risk that you carry is that complications sometimes develop while you are being surgically operated. This again has to do with the expertise of the surgeon and also the pre-operation check up that he does.

As far as the skill level of the doctor is concerned make sure that you go for brow lift and chin lift together. This helps as then the doctor knows what kind of the final look he is trying to achieve and he will have the picture in mind.

That said the best thing that you need to have is the achievable expectations and these will help you come out of the surgery better. In most cases the problem lies not with the physical side of it but with the mental side of it. So be grounded to reality and be happy after the surgery. - 30516

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Starlux 2940 -Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing Technologies

By Calvin Jai

Fractional laser skin resurfacing aficionados will be hearing more and more about the Starlux 1540, Starlux 2940, Fraxel Repair, ActiveFX, DeepFX, and Fractional Skin Rejuvenation in the future.

A small bit of history surrounding fractional laser treatments and C02 laser ablation treatments provide a place to start when looking at what's here in cosmetic medicine regarding fractional treatments, and what's coming next.

Cosmetic Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing's History

Fraxel was the first non ablative fractional laser for the cosmetic medical market. It's been upgraded since first being introduced and has been followed by a number of other fractional laser skin resurfacing technologies including the DeepFX and ActiveFX from Lumenis and the Starlux 1540 and Starlux 2940 from Palomar Medical.

Fractional laser skin resurfacing is new area of medicine that intersects cosmetic dermatology and traditional plastic surgery. Rapid advancements and new breakthroughs in these types of cosmetic medical technologies are occurring frequently and are fueled by an aging population of patients. The benefit for these patients is a rapid increase in the effectiveness of fractional laser treatments and less down time and potential side effects.

Fractional laser technologies new cosmetic applications are expanding into related areas like skin tightening treatments, where fractional treatments compete with radio frequency (RF) treatments like Thermage, and will eventually move into fat and cellulite treatments and removal.

What was a revolutionary advance in 1995, full face CO2 Laser Resurfacing for wrinkle removal using the Ultra pulse CO2 laser, fairs poorly when compared to new fractional laser treatments and although the wrinkle removal results were fantastic, the CO2 laser resurfacing created a very real "burn wound" that took many months of recovery and the need for general anesthesia. After a year, the skin would turn white or show hypo pigmentation. Because of the side effects, few patients today choose to have this very effective wrinkle removing procedure.

The Newest Fractional Skin Resurfacing & Rejuvenation Technologies

Now, cosmetic Fractional Skin Rejuvenation or Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing has evolved and eliminated many of the previous technologies shortcomings. The new erbium lasers are 'fractionated' into tiny micro-lasers, treating only a small portion of the skin (think tiny pin pricks) and leaving surrounding skin completely intact, greatly improving healing times.

These 'fractionated' treatment areas are called micro-treatment zones, and cause just enough injury to the dermis to trigger new collagen production to replace collagen damaged by aging and sun exposure. This production of new collagen 'fills in' or 'plumps' the underlying dermal tissues and smoothes out wrinkles. Untreated skin speeds the healing process to a mere 3-4 days. Since most of the pigment cells remain intact, hypo pigmentation is effectively prevented.

Starlux 1540: Palomars New Fractional Non-Ablative Laser Resurfacing Technology

The Fraxel and Starlux1540 are non ablative lasers (ablate means to "surgically remove) which means that the skin is not removed by the laser, rather the laser beam instantly heats the skin, causing inflammation and new collagen growth.

Results for skin laxity and wrinkle smoothing are less dramatic than with ablative lasers, but the benefit of reduced recovery time and reduced side effects are mean that non ablative laser treatments are often the patients first choice.

Starlux Fractional Ablative Laser Resurfacing In The Near Future

New fractional ablative lasers have recently been developed that provide the benefits of fractional treatments (less down time and reduced complications) with ablative skin resurfacings benefits (better wrinkle removal and facial rejuvenation) offering the best of both worlds.

These newer fractional ablative lasers remove the tissue in the micro treatment zone rather than just heating it as is done with the old Fraxel and the Starlux 1540.

The benefit of Starlux 2940 fractional ablative laser treatments is that a greater amount of wrinkled and sun damaged skin can be removed than with the older laser technologies, and with a better medical result. There is some minor increase in recovery time with redness for around 5-6 days. Still, the Starlux 2940 fractional ablative lasers require much less recovery time than the old non fractional erbium and CO2 ablative lasers.

Competing Fractional Laser Technologies

Reliant: CO2 fractional laser called Repair

Lumenis: CO2 fractional ablative lasers called ActiveFX & DeepFx

Palomar now has the Starlux 2940 Erbium fractional ablative skin resurfacing laser. - 30516

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Function and Cosmetic Nasal Surgery Explored

By D.J. Verret, MD

Rhinoplasty, or nose job surgery, is a surgical procedure aimed at improving some aspect of the nose. The surgery can be undertaken to change the look of the nose or to improve breathing through the nose. Since rhinoplasty surgery is often difficult to perform, it is imperative to clearly define your goals and understand that some of the goals may have to be compromised to ensure that you can still breathe through your nose at the end of surgery.

When undergoing rhinoplasty surgery, unfortunately patient desires are not always attainable. It is imperative to talk with a surgeon who will listen to your goals of surgery and then determine what can safely be done. The ultimate goal of any nasal surgery is creating a nose which is elegant and through which you can breathe. Unfortunately, sometimes the patient desire for a certain look will produce a nose through which they cannot breathe.

When considering rhinoplasty surgery, many questions can arise. Some of these are included in this paragraph. Can a rhinoplasty surgery address both problems with nasal breathing and the look of the nose? Combined procedures are often undertaken to address both concerns. In either procedure, it is imperative that functional considerations be maintained. In some cases, the desires of the patient cannot be achieved because it would create the inability to breath out of the nose.

What type of anesthesia is needed for nasal surgery? The nose is a very sensitive structure with many different nerves providing innervations. Because of this, a deep intravenous sedation or general anesthesia is needed to undergo any type of rhinoplasty procedure. In some cases, cartilage must be taken from the rib to recreate lost structure. In these cases, an overnight stay in the hospital may be necessary.

If you are considering nasal reshaping surgery, find a facial plastic surgeon or plastic surgeon who specializes in rhinoplasty surgery. Some surgeons will incorporate digital imaging into their consultation process to illustrate what you can expect after surgery. - 30516

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Celebrity Derma Roller Facial

By Linda Robison

What is a Dermaroller? It's an incredible device that naturally increases collagen levels within the skin. This helps to reduce stretch marks, fill in wrinkles, scars and smooth over uneven, pitted skin.which are all conditions that result from a lack of collagen. Performing a weekly Derma Roller facial you can replace collagen and help your skin repair and renew itself. This is especially important for people over 40 years of age.

How does the work? The Derma Roller performs collagen induction therapy(CIT). This means it helps to encourages the skin to produce collagen and elastin. By rolling this device over the skin, you create tiny openings in the upper layer of the dermis which causes a healing process to begin and collagen and elastin to increase. Over time, this process builds healthy skin cells and fills in lines, scars, and firms up skin.

Other benefits of the derma roller include:

-Increase absorption of your favorite anti-aging skin cream
-Helps to stimulate blood flow to the skin
-Opens clogged pores
-Exfoliates dead skin cells
-Removes old collagen and stimulates new collagen growth
-Can be used anytime in your own home at your convenience for just pennies each time
-Cost effective. A full face medical needling session can cost up to $600.00 to $1,000
-The Derma Roller can be used on all areas including face, neck, body, and scalp for hair loss
-Concept of skin needling is scientifically proven and based on thousands of years of acupuncture technology.
-Does not cause skin damage

What's The Best Derma Roller That Really Works? The derma roller is easy to use at home, as long as you have the correct derma roller for the best results. Click here for more information on choosing the right FDA Approved Derma Roller. You should only use a skin needling device that is an FDA approved application and that meets manufacturing and quality controlled standards in accordance with ISO/CE/FDA standards.

Also, you must choose the right sized roller for your skin needs. So what is the best size for you? Well, Spas and Clinics usually use larger sizes that range from 2.0mm to 3.0 mm. But for home use we recommend skin needling sizes between 0.5mm - 1.5mm. Studies show that the best and safest needle size for home use range between 1.0mm - 1.5 mm which is used to treat deep lines and wrinkles and scars of all types including acne/surgical/chicken pox scars. It also helps to improve and lift sagging skin, reduce stretch marks, and cellulite. For more information, questions on the best size for you, and to review the studies, please Click Here. - 30516

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Inside Cosmetic Dermatology & Plastic Surgery

By Calvin Jai



Visit Medical Spa MD's plastic surgery and cosmetic dermatology forums and you'll step into an unlikely brouhaha that's more than just uncommon in cosmetic dermatology and plastic surgery circles, it's unheard of.

Frustrated by what many physicians see as an incomprehensible and infuriating lack of support from cosmetic laser and IPL companies, they've taken their anger public in a kind of free-for-all tongue-lashing that you don't usually see from plastic surgeons where 'names are named' and fingers are pointed directly at identified individuals that are running prominent laser and IPL manufacturing companies.

In some cases entire strings of emails are published detailing conversations (or lack thereof) and publicly embarrassing top executives and even fellow cosmetic dermatologists that are acting as luminaries. It's as though the physicians have now decided to play hard ball really hard.

There's still some common sense left. Most of the physicians comments are made anonymously and the medical discussion forums that host these discussions protect the cosmetic surgeons who wish to remain under some level of secrecy.

The web sites hosting these cosmetic surgeons forums have some headaches of their own. Medical Spa MD, the most prominent forum for physicians in cosmetic medicine, has been served with a substantial number of letters and threats from lawyers for daring to make these forum discussions public.

"We've received a number of nasty-grams", says the publisher of Medical Spa MD, "but censoring public discourse between physicians is not what forums are about. The cosmetic dermatologists on the site are directly responsible for what they post and commenting that their opinion is that they're not receiving sufficient support from the cosmetic laser companies is just that, their opinion."

The issues are tangled by the types of support answers that the most vocal plastic surgeons are demanding, leaving the IPL and laser companies in the uncomfortable position of seeming to be alienating their physicians as customers, or providing information for treatments that could easily be considered off-label use by the FDA, opening them up to potentially hazardous liability claims from patients and the very plastic surgeons who are demanding the answers.

The topic is not likely to go away soon. Information that's disseminated publicly on the web has a long shelf life and it's obvious that technology companies are now taking notice. In some cases laser companies have actively joined in the discussion forums and proactively address concerns of individuals as soon as they're posted, leaving an impression of healthy and proactive customer support. These tactics seem to be working. The IPL and laser manufactures who are active have a much lower incidence of negative comments from cosmetic surgeons who see their calls for support go unanswered.

In the end it will come down to market demands. Many cosmetic surgeons who are opening new cosmetic medical clinics and investigating IPL and laser technology are finding their way into these forums and asking their more experienced peers for advice. IPL and laser manufacturers who aren't part of the discussion can't expect to win the propaganda wars. - 30516

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Cosmetic Laser Treatment Classes Explained

By Kylie J. Peterson

The advent of laser treatments in cosmetic medicine has led to many advancements in cosmetic medical device industries. In the cosmetic laser arena, new and improved cosmetic lasers are entering the cosmetic medical market every few months. This development curve is leaving the classification criterion of cosmetic lasers to continually be redefined. Therefore, the following information is to be used as a guideline and is not considered to be a current and thorough description.

Lasers in use by medical practitioners typically have low outputs of energy and power, and are thus placed in ANSI (American National Standards Institute) Class 2 category. Another important organization is the LIA (Laser Institute of America). The majority of medical lasers fall into the ANSI Class 3 or 4 categories with most surgical lasers being in ANSI Class 4. Most medical and/or surgical lasers are classified by the FDA (Food and Drug administration) as Class II or Class III medical devices.

Class 1

This class of lasers is considered not to pose any hazard when operated under and according to normal operating conditions. This category includes lasers which are completely enclosed such as CD players, fiber-optics systems, or laser printers. These devices that cannot have emissions exceeding the maximum permitted exposure (MPE) under any conditions are considered to be class 1 systems.

A potential hazard can occur during the repair of such devices if the repair process involves operating the laser outside of the enclosure case.

Warning labels are required for this class inside the unit or underneath the cover.

Class 2a Lasers

Few lasers qualify for this class of low-power, visible light lasers. Lasers in this class do not pose a threat if the beam of light is directly viewed for periods of time less than 16 minutes or so. Visible light lasers with a total output power less than 1 milliwatt, but greater than a few microwatts.

Class 2

Another class of visible light lasers that are intense enough that when shined in your eye can cause the normal aversion response. (The aversion response is when the eyelids close, or the head moves in order to avoid the light. It occurs within 0.25 seconds and includes the blink reflex time.)

Class 3a

Class of lasers that includes those emitting ultraviolet or infrared light as well as visible light. All devices within the Class 1 AEL (Allowed Exposure Level) with laser output between .18μm and 1mm fall in this class. Common Laser pointers that are readily available are class 3a laser devices.

Class 3b

This class includes the same spectrum as class 3a, but increases the output level to that of Class 2 AEL.

Class 4

Lasers with any power output that exceeds the Class 2 AEL.

Laser clinics that are performing cosmetic laser treatments are now treating medical patients. All of the components of aesthetic medical care play an even more important role when designing post-procedure treatment plan for the patient who just underwent a cosmetic laser treatment or the Rosacea patient who just underwent an IPL (intense pulse light) treatment. When working in a med spa or laser clinic, you're the 'medical' skin care expert in your recommendations of skin care products and aesthetic laser treatments to your clients. Of course, you're also a critical support to the cosmetic dermatologists who have planned an aggressive therapy treatment for their patients. - 30516

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Dark Circles Under Eyes Treatments

By James Morley

Nothing can make you feel old and tired like wrinkles on your face, particularly around your eyes. Hair color can be changed; balding is no longer an issue: you can just shave your head and look tres chic. But wrinkles are there for good.

The best indicator (or worst depending on how you look at it) of age is how it affects your face. Other aging indicators can be taken care of easily. But there are entire industries built around making your face look younger. Cosmetics, surgery, pharmaceuticals all focused on ones appearance.

Fortunes are made for those who make a product to reverse the aging process. The areas around the eyes are usually the first to go, especially if you dont get enough sleep. Dark circles are also part of this. You may not be able to fight genetics or the sun, but you can get dark circle under the eyes treatments to help you reverse the aging process

But this is not all about vanity. With dark circles under your eyes, it is hard to convince someone that you are not exhausted. This will reflect badly at work. This will reflect badly in social situations. The signal you send will be hard to overcome with charm or sincerity.

You may think you are alright and not be concerned, but others will be. You could get passed over at work, ignored socially. The bags under your eyes are alarms for all who look at you. Is this how you want the world to see you? The best thing you can do change this is to get dark circles under your eyes treatment.

Before you get dark circles under eyes treatments, you should attempt to identify any issues that may be contributing to them. Are you getting a good nights sleep? Well, you can fight them all you want, but you wont get rid of them if you are not sleeping. What about family history? This will help you diagnose what type of treatment to use. Are there any environmental factors, such as smoke or something that you may be allergic or sensitive to? Keep these things in mind and you will be able to take years off your appearance. - 30516

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Ear Pinning Surgery

By D.J. Verret, MD

'Dumbo ears' can be disheartening for some people. Prominent ears, though not a problem for hearing can be a psychological concern. Patients, particularly those of school age can be teased if they have prominent ears. Fortunately, there are surgical options to correct prominent ears which can be undertaken at any time, but are usually undertaken around the time that a child starts school.

When evaluating a patient with prominent ears, it is important to determine if there is excess or lack causing the ear prominent. In some patients, an excess of the cartilage at the base of the ear, termed the conchall cartilage, can push the ear out from the head. In other patients, a lack of the antihelical fold can cause the edge of the ear to appear unfolded and prominent.

Procedures which are aimed at reshaping the ear are termed otoplasty procedures " though sometimes commonly called ear pinning surgery. For patients with a lack of an antihelical fold, surgery is aimed at placing permanent stitches which recreate the fold. These sutures remain under the skin for a lifetime. For patients with excess cartilage, removal of cartilage is necessary to help reset the ear closer to the head. If a lack of an antihelical fold is identified just after birth, special molds can be made and often the ear can be reformed and cartilage taught a new position so that future otoplasty is not necessary. Cartilage has a memory and once it is allowed to stay in one position during growth, it will always remember that position, even if it is repositioned at some point.

Risks are associated with any procedure. For otoplasty surgery, risks include infection, bleeding, and cartilage death which can require reconstructive surgery. If permanent stitches are used to reshape the ear, there is the possibility that these sutures can break at some point in time and need to be replaced.

To determine if you are a candidate for otoplasty surgery and to determine all of the risks pertinent to your medical condition, consult a trained facial plastic surgeon. They can help determine what surgery may be appropriate and counsel you as to the risks and rewards of surgery. - 30516

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Can I Breastfeed After Getting Breast Implants?

By Dr. York Yates

The advantages of breastfeeding are well documented so many women considering breast augmentation are curious about the effects, especially since many candidates still plan on having children. The most common questions are do the breasts still produce and deliver milk and is the safety of the milk affected by implants?

Breast augmentation, like all surgical procedures, can have side effects. Your ability to safely breastfeed does have a chance of being of affected, but it is more than likely that you will be able to breastfeed normally. There are choices that your surgeon can guide you through that will minimize the possibility of breastfeeding being affected.

Two types of incisions for breast augmentation are around the nipple, and the inframammary incision, which is on the crease on the bottom of the breast. The inframammary incision causes no division of milk glandular tissue or ducts, and reduces the risk of any negative effect on breastfeeding. Incisions around the nipple do divide some of the milk glands, which makes it a little more risky, but breastfeeding has a high chance of being successful with either incision.

The risk to babies breastfeeding from breasts with implants has been the focus of many studies. To date there has been no evidence that there are any risks. I can safely say that it breastfeeding with implants is safe for you and your baby.

Many women with breast implants choose not to breast-feed and I suspect this percentage may be higher than that of the general public. I assume that there is a fear that breast-feeding will "ruin" the results of their surgery. While it is true that pregnancy can cause a droop of the breasts this is a natural occurrence in women with or without a previous "boob job". There was an interesting study about three years ago that suggested pregnancy affected the breasts similarly with or without breast-feeding, even though my experience suggests otherwise I found the study to be interesting.

If you are a woman interested in enhancing the size or shape of your chest but are worried about the ability to breast feed in the future more than likely your choice to have surgery will not have an impact on your future ability to breast feed, though it is a possibility. I suggest speaking with your surgeon about your concerns so the risks can be minimized and you'll be able to enjoy the results as well as avoid the undesired complications. - 30516

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Ways to Protect Breast Implants from Deforming

By Amy Nutt

A starlet goes from a "C" cup to a "D" via breast augmentation, and every photo shoot starring the new duo looks fabulous. What many who admire these sassy celebrity femme fatales don't know is that breast implants come with a host of dangers and among them is the potential for them to lose their shape.

This is because they can deflate or cause an infection that affects surrounding breast tissue. In the latter instance, one breast can appear bigger than the other or become unnatural looking and hard. This of course defeats the purpose of getting breast implants in the first place. Women who undergo breast augmentation surgery want to make jaws drop with appreciation, not get horrified "what happened to her" double takes.

Surgical Options and After Care Help

A popular surgical method that reduces the risk of breast deformity employs the practice of placing the silicone or saline implant shell beneath muscle. Not only do the breasts have less of a ridged roundness to them, they also refrain from sagging or taking on an odd shape. This often times makes them appear more natural.

If for any reason you chose not to go that route, picking an implant shell size that is proportionate to your height and weight will also assist in keeping the breast from looking bad. One should keep in mind that the larger the breasts are, the more likely they will cause the skin tissues to stretch.

Post breast augmentation care is very important as well. Following the surgeon's orders may prevent things like infections, which can cause the nipples or breast to alter in appearance-and not for the better.

Preventing Breast Implant Deformity

There are ways to protect implants from horrific, hard to hide deformities so that a woman gets the most out of her newly acquired body accessory. The first and most obvious step is obtaining the right size bra. Getting one that supports and lifts is the best investment, as it will keep gravity from doing damage to the skin surrounding breast implants. This is turn will mitigated the stretched look that makes many breast augmentations seem fake.

You may find that you have to sleep in such bras, as they will keep the breasts in place and reduce risk of harm. Falls and pressure on the breast can also deform the implants, so avoid laying on your stomach or performing physical activities that would place stress to shells and cause them to shift or burst.

Replacement Programs

Many people don't know that most implants have a shelf life. It doesn't matter if you chose saline or silicone, you may at some point have to replace your implant. The suggestion is that you do so every 7-12 years.

In many instances, for a nominal fee, you can purchase a warrant of the implant shells. Should something happen to your breast implant, you can have them replaced. The shelf life of breast implants can differ from company to company, so do your homework and try to find a plan that fits your budget and lifestyle.

Above all, treat your breast augmentation like the worthwhile investment it is by caring for your breasts. They are now a part of you, and thus they will need attention and nurturing to remain natural looking and healthy.

With the right mindset and tools, you can maintain a lovely bust for years to come and reduce the risk of deformity. This in turn will make breast augmentation a wonderful venture indeed. - 30516

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Hair Removal Treatment: How It Works

By Jai Newman

Before laser and IPL devices entered the market, electrolysis was the only form of permanent or long-term hair removal available. Electrolysis is still performed today, but it is painful and invasive to the skin, allowing for a chance of infection. Unfortunately, this painstaking process is performed one hair follicle at a time. During the electrolysis procedure, a fine needle is inserted into the hair follicle, delivering a galvanic current to destruct the follicle stem cells. Regular maintenance procedures are often required for years after the initial treatment.

In contrast, with laser and pulsed light technology, hundreds of hair follicles are treated at a time and vary upon the spot size (the size of the tip of the device delivering energy). These hair removal procedures are non-invasive and take only minutes to perform instead of the many hours with electrolysis.

What is Melanin?

A patient's skin type and hair color can be the most important consideration prior to hair removal treatment. Laser hair removal is based on selective photothermolysis (using light and heat for destruction of a hair follicle) with melanin being the target chromophore (chemical grouping that produces color). The difference between the absorption of laser or light energy by melanin in the hair follicle and melanin in the epidermis determines the amount of energy that can be safely used without harming the skin.

Light skinned patients with dark hair are considered to be the ideal patients for hair removal On the other hand, a patient with very dark skin and gray or white hair, would have little if any response. Since melanin in the hair shaft and follicle are the target source for laser and IPL hair removal procedures, it is important for patients during their initial consultation not to tweeze, wax or use any depilatory device prior to hair removal. The patient can, however, shave the area to be treated (which preserves the chromophore in the follicle), or can use hair removal creams. Hair which is protruding from the skin can singe during a laser or light treatment which causes an unpleasant smell and possible flares.

Preparing for Hair Removal

Most devices technically operate the same way when performing a hair removal. The parameters on the equipment should be adjusted according to the history and skin analysis of the patient. The patient should be instructed to refrain from using any body washes, lotions, cosmetics, or any skin medications the day of treatment. Some patients may prefer to have a topical anesthetic applied prior to the procedure. If any residue of the anesthetic remains, it should be wiped clean from the skin. It is also important for patients to avoid dark clothing near the area to be treated as the dye in the clothing can be absorbed by the laser or light resulting in a painful burn. A patch test should be performed on the intended treatment area. Several monthly treatments are recommended for the best results and a yearly maintenance procedure is recommended. - 30516

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Male Abdominoplasty Surgery

By Wayne Fulton

Does it bother you that whenever you bring up a man getting a tummy tuck, all you receive is stares? It often feels like people think you are speaking crazy talk. Well the fact is, more men than ever are having tummy tucks. That is why we are going to discuss this subject today.

Of course, women are usually the ones who need tummy tucks. This stems from the fact that a pregnancy is very difficult on a woman body. After carrying a baby for nine months, it is very difficult for the woman's skin to retract back to its pre-pregnancy form.

With that said, more and more men are undergoing this procedure every year. As proof, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons has stated the over fifty six hundred men had tummy tuck in the year 2007.

This of course begs the question, Why would a man need a tummy tuck? There are two answers to this question. The majority of men have tummy tucks to undo the ravages of extreme weight loss or to reverse the aging process.

Obviously, if a man loses a large amount of weight (just picture the Biggest Loser winners), he would definitely need a tummy tuck. Otherwise, he would have pounds and pounds of sagging excess skin to tow around.

In addition to weight loss, an older man is likely to get a tummy tuck to undo the damage done by aging. Regardless of how much we try to postpone the inevitable, the fact is that many men will develop excess skin in their abdominal area.

Besides understanding why a man would need to get a tummy tuck, another aspect to consider is the actual tummy tuck financing. Since the procedure will set you back somewhere around $6,000, you may be worried about this. Luckily, there is a whole litany of cosmetic surgery financing options out there.

In conclusion, there are two main reasons why a man would get a tummy tuck. Since we believe that these two reasons will continue to exist, one can only logically assume that more and more men will continue to have tummy tucks. - 30516

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Are You Sure You Want Liposculpture?

By Pier Montague

Liposculpture, in the past few decades, has become one of the most sought after cosmetic surgeries. In 2006, this surgery held the record for the most performed plastic surgery in that year. This procedure has especially become popular in the entertainment industry. Everyday there is some tabloid on our grocery store shelves pointing out some of the good and bad liposculpture operations performed on celebrities.

First performed by American surgeons in Italy in 1974, liposculpture quickly became the more expensive but quick alternative to diet and exercise. Liposculpture involves a long, hallow tube that is inserted into the fat layer of skin through a small incision. The tube is connected to a machine that applies suction to the tube and allows the surgeon to literally suck the fat right out of a patient. The most common, and possibly only safe, areas to perform this procedure are the back of the arms, legs, chest, abdomen, buttocks, and neck.

Although this type of procedure can be harmful to the body, there have been advancements to the devices used have lowered the risk of injuries. Such advancements are tubes that have ultrasonic vibrations that break fat cell walls to make the suction easier. Another example is tubes that have a mechanized movement so that the surgeon has to do less moving of the tube, which would cause less damage.

A surgeon must first make sure the patient is a good candidate for liposculpture. Good candidates include anyone over the age of eighteen and in good health. Bad candidates include: persons who have a significant heart condition, who have diabetes, or who have any type of infection.

For health concern reasons the patient cannot be smoking for a certain amount of time before liposculpture, or eat any food before a certain time before the procedure. Even after the surgery the patient is highly recommended to follow the doctor's orders very strictly. Such restrictions include keeping the bandages for a specified time or not doing any strenuous work. Not abiding to these restriction can lead to further complications that could be life threatening.

With any surgery can come any type of complications. Liposculpture can be strongly associated with infections, especially where incision is made, or the skin could not properly form over the new body shape, which would need further surgery to permanently fix this problem.

Liposculpture is not a surgery one would want to get without knowing exactly how everything is done. With all of the possible complications, it is still one of the most popular cosmetic procedures to date. This is so because technology is advancing everyday, and these procedures are no longer so expensive that only the rich and famous can have them performed. Liposculpture is a procedure that needs to be taken very seriously and should not be performed on someone who is uneducated about its process. - 30516

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