Cosmetic and Plastic Surgeons

When considering breast enhancement, it is important to understand your goals of cosmetic surgery. For example, are you looking for a larger breast size, more proportioned breasts, or simply just to turn back the clock. In addition, it is important for you to select a breast implant surgeon who you can communicate with, who understands your goals and expectations and who gives you a feeling of confidence. Your relationship with your doctor will be important as you move forward together to decide the appropriate surgical approach and implant design that is right for you.

Your final result from a breast augmentation will be determined far more by your choice of plastic surgeon than by which breast augmentation technique is used or which breast implant you choose. Not only is this your most important choice, it is also the hardest one to make. One thing on your side is that this is elective surgery, and totally non-urgent. If you make a pact with yourself to wait until you are 100% comfortable, you will have the breathing space to choose the right plastic surgeon for yourself. Be informed and learn more about plastic surgery and what it has to offer.

You should discuss with your plastic surgeon the pros and cons of the breast implant placement selected for you. There are three common incision sites: under the arm (axillary), around the nipple (periareolar), or within the breast fold (inframammary). If the incision is made under the arm, the plastic surgeon may use a probe fitted with a miniature camera, along with minimally invasive (very small) instruments, to create a “pocket” for the breast implant.

Breast augmentation is a procedure to enhance the size of your bust by using saline breast implants or silicone breast implants. By inserting breast implants a plastic surgeon can increase a woman’s bust line. Advances in breast implant technology and surgical techniques make breast augmentation a popular option among women. The breast implant can be placed either partially under the pectoralis major muscle (submuscular) or on top of the muscle and under the breast glands (subglandular) depending on the thickness of your breast tissue and its ability to adequately cover the breast implant.

The size and shape of the ear is dependent on the underlying cartilage. Cartilage is the rubbery, semi-rigid, substance the body uses to give various structures, such as the nose, their shape and flexibility. The ear cartilage is made up of a series of folds and cup-like structures, all of which contribute to its final shape. If a person is born with too much cupping or not enough folds, the ear will be forced away from the side of the head and give the appearance of protruding. Once one gains understanding of the problem, you can then understand the treatment. The surgical procedure to correct this problem is called an Otoplasty, but may be more commonly known as an “ear pinning” or “ear reshaping”.

Liposuction is currently the most common aesthetic procedure being performed today. It is designed to remove unwanted fat from many areas of the body, including the face, neck, arms, back, hips, thighs, buttocks and knees and legs.

The skin does not always fully conform to the body’s new shape following significant weight loss. The skin may lose elasticity and begin to sag. One of the areas of the body most affected by this problem is the thigh area.
Thanks to thigh lift surgery, a highly effective cosmetic surgical procedure that removes excess fat and skin from the thighs, a solution is available. A thigh lift can dramatically improve the thigh area, as well as enhance the overall appearance of the figure. After working hard to lose a significant amount of weight, developing a secondary problem such as excess, sagging skin can be very frustrating.

When the facial aging process begins to take place and the face is sometimes out of harmony with the eyelids or forehead, some patients become self-conscious. And when patients state that they look older than they truly feel or their friends tell them that they look tired and not well rested, a facelift or a neck lift is performed. The face/neck lift is a very popular procedure done frequently in the United States and it is in the top 1/3 in popularity of all cosmetic procedures performed on the face. The facelift procedure is done for cosmetic reasons, and it is a procedure that is done on the face and neck to rejuvenate the face. This procedure tightens up lax facial skin, neck skin and muscles, jowls, and addresses neck fat as well. It also tightens the muscles in the face, the posterior portion of the neck and the front portion of the neck. Excess skin is removed around the ears and fat is removed underneath the neck.

Otoplasty (Cosmetic Ear Surgery) is a surgical procedure used to improve the appearance of protruding ears or to reduce the size of large ears. It can also help correct ear deformities such as “lop ear,” “cupped ear,” or “shell ear.” Otoplasty can be performed on children and adults, however children need to wait until the ears are almost fully grown. This usually occurs by the age of 4 or 5.

The laser emits a gentle beam of light that passes through the skin and is absorbed by the hair follicle The absorbed laser energy is transformed into heat, destroying the hair follicle and leaving the surrounding skin unaffected.
The GentleLASE laser is the only system available with a Dynamic Cooling Device that sprays cryogen onto the skin. This cools the upper skin layers and protects even the most delicate skin while dramatically reducing discomfort. Compared to other hair removal lasers on the market, our GentleLASE system is virtually painless.

One of the most sexy and youthful features of the face are the lips. Lushes, plump, and full lips are signs of youth, health, and fertility. As we age our lips lose their fullness and volume. The upper lip sags and becomes thinner. Meanwhile, fine wrinkles develop around lips which are called “lipstick lines” or “smoker’s lines”.
Lip augmentation consists of a variety of procedures designed to give a person a more defined and fuller lips. Besides enlarging the lips, lip fillers or implants are also used to balance the upper and lower lips.

When male breast-reduction surgery is performed by a qualified plastic surgeon, complications are infrequent and usually minor. Nevertheless, as with any surgery, there are risks. These include infection, skin injury, excessive bleeding, adverse reaction to anesthesia, and excessive fluid loss or accumulation. The procedure may also result in noticeable scars, permanent pigment changes in the breast area, or slightly mismatched breasts or nipples. If asymmetry is significant, a second procedure may be performed to remove additional tissue.
The temporary effects of breast reduction include loss of breast sensation or numbness, which may last up to a year.

Facial rejuvenation today should be about creating a new you and a positive outlook. Cosmetic surgery is not meant to change your life, but cosmetic surgery can help you look the way you have always wanted. Many plastic surgeons believe that there is no one operation or approach, but rather a selection of approaches and cosmetic procedures that can fit your specific needs. Women and men’s bodies change over time.

Eyelid surgery can make you look years younger and change one’s appearance from a tired, sad and angry look to an alert, rested and peaceful look. The eyelid lift operation is designed to remove excess skin and bagginess around the eye area. The wrinkles around the eyes are etched into the skin and cannot be removed by this procedure. A laser resurfacing procedure may be desired if the patient would like to decrease fine line wrinkles.

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 rhinoplasty expectations, you may be a good candidate.
Rhinoplasty can be performed to meet aesthetic goals or for reconstructive purposes-to correct birth defects or breathing problems.
Age may also be a consideration. Many surgeons prefer not to operate on teenagers until after they’ve completed their growth spurt-around 14 or 15 for girls, a bit later for boys. It’s important to consider teenagers’ social and emotional adjustment, too, and to make sure it’s what they, and not their parents, really want.

The best candidates for abdominoplasty are men or women who are in relatively good shape but are bothered by a large fat deposit or loose abdominal skin that won’t respond to diet or exercise. The surgery is particularly helpful to women who, through multiple pregnancies, have stretched their abdominal muscles and skin beyond the point where they can return to normal. Loss of skin elasticity in older patients, which frequently occurs with slight obesity, can also be improved.
Patients who intend to lose a lot of weight should postpone the tummy tuck surgery. Also, women who plan future pregnancies should wait, as vertical muscles in the abdomen that are tightened during surgery can separate again during pregnancy.

Injected collagen and fat are primarily used to improve the appearance of the skin’s texture. They can help fill out deep facial wrinkles, creases and furrows, “sunken” cheeks, skin depressions and some types of scars. They can also be used to add a fuller, more sensuous look to the lips.
Injectables are usually not sufficient for severe surface wrinkles on the face, such as multiple vertical “lipstick lines” that sometimes form around the mouth. Instead, your plastic surgeon may suggest a resurfacing technique, such as chemical peel, dermabrasion or laser treatments. Rather than filling in facial lines, resurfacing methods strip away the outer layers of the skin to produce a smoother appearance.

The three basic procedures that involve alteration of the nose are: rhinoplasty, septoplasty, and tiplasty. Rhinoplasty is surgery of the nose to augment, shorten, elongate, thin, straighten, or otherwise balance the overall impression of the face. Patients who seek nasal surgery for more cosmetic reasons often elect rhinoplasty, which includes alteration of the nasal bone and cartilage. Septoplasty is surgery of the nose that restores or improves its functionality in terms of breathing more easily. This procedure corrects a deviated nasal septum as mentioned earlier. Tiplasty is surgery of the cartilage of the nasal tip. Patients elect this procedure to refine and define the tip of the nose. Because rhinoplasty refers to the overall reconstruction of the nose, it may also include straightening of the nose, refinement of the nasal tip, narrowing of the nose width, or reduction of the “nasal hump,” as a combined surgery.

Many men and women are dissatisfied with the size and shape of their calves. Calf augmentation, or calf implants, is a surgical procedure that uses soft, solid silicone implants to increase the size and enhance the shape of the calves. Reasons for calf augmentation are varied and include cosmetic enhancement and reconstructive necessity. Men and women body builders often use calf augmentation to enhance the fullness, shape and bulk of the calf muscles when exercise falls short on further development. Others choose calf implants to improve proportions, definitions and curves of the lower legs for simple muscular enhancement or to correct the appearance of thin and/or bowed legs. Calf implants can also be used to correct asymmetry in calf muscles from trauma or genetic birth deformities such as in polio, spina bifida and clubfoot.

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 breast lift surgery.

When cosmetic 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 eyelid surgery plastic surgeon about the pros and cons involved.

1. The minor complications after the surgery include double or blurred vision for a few days.
2. Temporary swelling at the corner of the eyelids.
3. A slight asymmetry in healing or scarring.
4. Tiny whiteheads may appear after your stitches are taken out, which can be removed easily with a very fine needle.
5. Another complication is ectropion, a pulling down of the lower eyelid which requires further surgery.

There are many pre-existing conditions for which breast and nipple reconstruction is a viable solution to improve one’s aesthetics and self-esteem.

Post Breast Surgery Deformities
Some women are unfortunately left with unsatisfactory results from breast augmentations, implants, lifts and reductions. Whether the cause of a doctor’s lack of expertise, or an unfortunate result of an otherwise well-performed surgery, the breasts must undergo another cosmetic breast procedure to create the desired shape and size.

Inverted Nipple
The less than rare condition of “inverted nipples” can cause a woman to be self-conscious of her breasts. Surgery can provide women with the nipple shape that they desire.

Enlarged Nipple
Quite the opposite of an inverted nipple is an “enlarged nipple”. The nipple may be larger or longer than desired. This condition can also be corrected with surgery.

One of the most popular procedures today, liposuction is designed to eliminate fatty deposits in various areas of the body, such as the abdomen, hips, thighs, buttocks or neck. This is not a weight loss procedure but rather a sculpting of areas that are refractory to dieting and exercise. During the tumescent liposuction procedure, fluid is injected into the tissue to improve the efficiency of fat removal and to decrease the blood loss. Then, a cannula connected to a vacuum pump is inserted through a small 1/4” incision in a normal skin fold, and the area is suctioned. Today, advanced techniques using ultrasonic and power assisted cannulas have enhanced results. This body contouring procedure can be performed on an outpatient basis, and the patient can resume normal activities within a week’s time, but must refrain from exercising and sports for three weeks postoperatively.

When cosmetic ear surgery is performed by a qualified, experienced plastic surgeon, complications are infrequent and usually minor. Nevertheless, as with any operation, there are risks associated with surgery and specific complications associated with this procedure. A small percentage of patients may develop a blood clot on the ear. It may dissolve naturally or can be drawn out with a needle. Occasionally, patients develop an infection in the cartilage, which can cause scar tissue to form. Such infections are usually treated with antibiotics; rarely, surgery may be required to drain the infected area.

Many women are unhappy with the size of their labia minora (inner vaginal lips), which may cause insecurity or embarrassment with a sexual partner, discomfort in tight fitting pants or swim wear, or other hygienic problems. Women have become more aware of differences in genital appearance, due in large part of nudity in magazines and nude presentation in movies. When labia minora are enlarged or unequal in size, some women harbor feelings of deformity or being abnormal, with loss of self-esteem. Most women do not desire the smaller inner vaginal lips to project much beyond the larger outer lips, and many do not want the smaller inner lips to extend beyond the outer lips. Labioplasty can help get rid of these problems.

Despite what may be touted in the media today, there are no exercises or medications that will have any effect on breast size. Breast enhancement can be a dramatic step in releasing your potential and creating a new you. Breast augmentation can create self-esteem, self-confidence and a new figure. Your plastic surgeon will work with you to select the highest quality implant of proper size and shape to give you a beautiful, safe enhancement, tailored specifically for you.

Most rhinoplasty patients have a definite idea as to how they would like to “improve” or refine the shape of their nose. Usually they don’t like the “hump” on the bridge, the thickness of the tip, or the width of their nose.
The nasal septum, (the structure that separates the two nostrils inside the nose), is composed of cartilage and bone. It may become deviated or twisted, either through the trauma of birth or as the result of an accidental injury. This deviation may alter the pattern of air flow through the nose, making it more difficult to breathe. In addition, the nose may appear crooked with a “hump”.

Today, men of all ages and all walks of life are requesting male cosmetic surgery procedures for cosmetic reasons. Men’s goals include a more balanced nose, a rejuvenated face, a trimmer waistline. The procedures used to achieve these plastic surgery goals must take into consideration factors such as skin thickness, beard growth, or body type.

There are many facial filler substances on the market today. The differences among them involve the types of materials and how long they remain effective. The one common denominator is that none of the material is permanent. Typically, the effects from these substances last from three to four months. There is one product on the market today, Radiance, which the manufacturer claims lasts three to five years. This product is most effective for softening the nasolabial folds (the groove which stretches from the nose downward to the corner of the mouth). All the filler substances are injected with a fine needle in the office setting. Most patients report mild but temporary discomfort.

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

An abdominoplasty or “tummy tuck” is a commonly performed surgery that tightens weak or stretched muscles and removes excess skin, creating a flat and toned abdomen. An abdominoplasty is an body contouring plastic surgery operation in which the loose skin and fat of the abdominal wall, particularly around the navel, is removed by elevation of the skin and fat, pulling it inferiorly and excising the excess. It is particularly effective in removing stretch marks from the lover abdomen, but it must be understood that not all stretch marks can be eliminated. The navel is reinserted into the skin after the tightening procedure.

The most obvious signs of age can often be seen in the area just above the eyes. Horizontal wrinkles on the forehead and vertical lines between the eyes can create a fatigued, angry, or sad appearance. At many plastic surgery centers, brow lift is the procedure of choice for people wishing to eliminate these obvious signs of age.

Brachioplasty, or an arm lift, is designed to remove excessive and sagging skin in the upper arm that often results from weight loss and aging. An arm lift procedure can give your arms the shapely contours you may not have seen in a long time or never had! Imagine being able to wear any sleeveless shirt you want!

The initial consultation with your surgeon regarding your eyelid surgery is very important. The surgeon will need your complete medical history, so check your own records ahead of time and be ready to provide this information. Be sure to inform your surgeon if you have any allergies; if you’re taking any vitamins, medications (prescription or over-the-counter), or other drugs; and if you smoke.
You and your surgeon should carefully discuss your goals and expectations for this surgery. You’ll need to discuss whether to do all four eyelids or just the upper or lower ones, whether skin as well as fat will be removed, and whether any additional procedures are appropriate.

The breast lift procedure is indicated when the breasts have lost their youthful volume and have become stretched and saggy. At this point, the nipples have dropped as well and in severe cases, the nipples may point straight to the ground. In youth, the perky breast is supported by strong internal ligaments and other connective tissue structures which give it a firm feel. After childbirth, severe weight loss, gravity and hormonal changes cause these ligaments to stretch and weaken the breast tissue which looses its firmness (atrophies) and becomes quite soft. The severity of sagginess will usually dictate which breast lift technique is used in an attempt to rejuvenate the fallen breast.

Have you ever looked at your silhouette and imagined that you could just wish away those areas that just protrude out too far? Have you ever wished you could have those fatty bulges just melt away? There is no need to feel alone as most of us have similar problem areas that we wish would just go away. That is why liposuction is the most popular plastic surgical procedure performed in the United States. Liposuction is a procedure, which is ideal for improving one’s shape, silhouette, contour or figure. It is perfect for those stubborn, unsightly collections of fatty deposits.

Cosmetic eyelid surgery or blepharoplasty is done to improve the appearance of the upper or lower eyelids. The primary goal of upper eyelid surgery is to remove the excess skin and fat, whereas the goal of lower eyelid surgery is to remove mostly excess fat. The fat in the lower eyelids is a genetic trait and is referred to by many as puffiness. Typically, patients will say that they look older than they feel when they look in the mirror.

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

Gynecomastia can be emotionally devastating. A man or boy with gynecomastia struggles with anxiety over such simple acts as taking off his shirt at the beach. For men who feel self-conscious about their appearance, breast-reduction surgery can help. Male breast reduction removes fat and or glandular tissue from the breasts and in extreme cases removes excess skin, resulting in a chest that is flatter, firmer, and better contoured.

Ear pinning usually takes two or three hours, the technique depends on the problem. In one of the more common techniques, the surgeon makes a small incision in the back of the car to expose the car cartilage. Then the plastic surgeon will sculpt the cartilage and bend it back towards the head. The stitches which are non removable may be used to help maintain the new shape. Some times as large piece of the cartilage is removed to give a more natural looking fold, when the surgery is complete. In another technique, a similar incision is made in the back of the ear. Skin is removed and stitches are used to fold the cartilage back on itself to reshape the ear without removing cartilage. The surgery will leave a faint sear in the back of the ear, which will fade with time.

The first consultation allows you to meet with your plastic surgeon and staff to discuss your needs and concerns. You will learn about your surgery, the risks and complications, recovery time and look at before and after pictures. Your discussion with him or her covers all aspects of the surgery and you will discuss with him or her your expectations of the surgery. Your plastic surgeon will be able to examine your body and talk about the procedures necessary to meet your expectations.
During the consultation, you will be asked about the results you would like to achieve from abdominoplasty. This will help your surgeon to understand your expectations and determine whether they realistically can be achieved. He or she will individualize your treatment plan with you and discuss with you what type of abdominoplasty will give you your best results (ie. mini-abdominoplasty vs. full abdominoplasty vs. extended abdominoplasty).
You will have before pictures taken, which allows the physician to plan your surgery and also allows computer imaging to be done and viewed at a later date. After meeting with your surgeon you will have the opportunity to meet with the nurse and review pre-operative and post-operative care necessary for the surgery. You plastic surgeon’s assistant will discuss fees and schedule your surgery at a time convenient to both schedules.

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

For many people the removing of hair through shaving can be incredibly inconvenient and in some cases (such as being overweight or aged) very difficult. Because of this problem, men and women alike look for alternative ways to get rid of their unwanted hair to avoid embarrassment from razor burn or bumps. They turn to waxing, various hair removal sprays, and other temporary solutions to their problem. However, there is an alternative to any temporary hair removal. There is only one way to permanently remove unwanted facial or body hair and that is laser hair removal.

Breast augmentation, technically known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure to enhance the size and shape of a woman’s breast for a number of reasons. The most common being to enhance the body contour of a woman who, for personal reasons, feels her breast size is too small, to correct a reduction in breast volume after pregnancy, to balance a difference in breast size, or as a reconstructive technique following breast surgery.

The thighs tend to be an area of the body that is often overlooked but one that can greatly benefit from plastic surgery. The thighs can be affected by both redundant skin and an over-accumulation of fatty deposits. There are many reasons why the thighs undergo these changes. The thighs are one area of the body that is particularly prone to fat build-up and deterioration in skin quality. During the aging process, the skin loses elasticity, retaining ligaments stretch and gravity takes its toll. Thigh skin is especially prone to these changes as it is naturally thinner than skin found elsewhere in the body. Weight gain also plays a roll in this process as the added skin tension further stretches and thins the skin. The problem can become quite noticeable with significant weight loss. Sun exposure and cigarette smoking can also be major contributors to the problem. Cosmetic surgery can offer a real opportunity to correct these issues and achieve a firmer, more youthful look. A thigh lift, liposuction or both, may be just the answer.

Otoplasty is a relatively simple plastic surgery procedure, which removes excess cartilage and reshaped natural folds through incisions behind the ears. Sutures in the cartilage will secure the ears in the correct position from the patients head. It is important not to correct the position of the ears by excess skin removal, as this will create an unnatural connection of the ears to the scalp. The procedure takes approximately one to two hours. Mild pain medication is prescribed to treat any discomfort experienced following otoplasty surgery. A protective head band is worn post-operatively for a minimum of two weeks. Patients may return to most physical activities within a few weeks.

Fortunately, significant complications from breast reduction are infrequent. Every year, many thousands of women undergo successful breast reduction surgery, experience no major problems and are pleased with the results. Anyone considering surgery, however, should be aware of both the benefits and the risks.
Has anyone had an experience with a breast reduction that they would like to share?

During abdominoplasty, the plastic surgeon makes an incision that extends from hip to hip along the lower pubic area. A skilled plastic surgeon makes this incision so that the resulting scar is hidden under a bathing suit or by undergarments. The plastic surgeon then lifts the loose skin off of the abdominal wall, and tightens and repairs the loosened “rectus” muscles – the muscles that normally give the abdomen its strength – achieving the effect that an old-fashioned girdle would.
During Mini-Abdominoplasty, the plastic surgeon makes an incision that generally spans only the width of the pubic area, and that is similar to a C-section incision. In both procedures, patients with excessive fat in the hips and flanks may have liposuction in these areas to contour them, but not in the areas of the abdomen that are being stretched because this could cause damage to the blood circulation in those areas, leading to scarring or even skin loss. The result of a tummy tuck is an abdomen that is tight and flat, a waist that is narrow and curvy and thighs and buttocks that are firmer.

Ear pinning is most commonly performed on children between the ages of four and fourteen. Ear pinning on adults is possible as well and there are no additional risks associated on performing the procedure on adult patients. The procedure can help a child avoid teasing from peers because of protruding ears. Such factors may affect an individual’s confidence, leading them to seek their own ear pinning.

Brachioplasty, also known as arm lift or arm tuck, is a plastic surgery procedure designed to remove redundant, flabby, and sagging skin folds of the upper arms. Hanging arm skin folds are not only unsightly, but also interfere with one’s ability to fit in sleeved tops, as well as causing underarm skin rash and irritation.
Brachioplasty can now offer patients the freedom of a lifestyle that they couldn’t enjoy previously. In fact, the popularity of arm lift surgery has soared to a point that according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the number of Brachioplasty surgeries has tripled since 1997, with nearly 15,000 procedures being performed in 2005. Arm lift surgery is not exclusive to women. Actually, many men also undergo brachioplasty.

Breast augmentation is a procedure performed to enlarge the breasts and improve its overall shape. Breast implants can be inserted through incisions under the breast (inframammary fold), around the areola (periareolar), or through the armpit (transaxillary). The type of implant used, the placement of incision and the size of the implant are influenced by individual physical characteristics and the patient’s preference. These factors will be evaluated during your initial consultation and the information gathered will be used in choosing the optimal implant size and style for you.

If you desire to minimize your deep forehead creases, furrows and/or frown lines or have drooping or sagging eyebrows that are creating a tired or sad appearance you may be a candidate for a forehead lift. A forehead lift/brow lift will smooth out your forehead, while raising the upper eyelids and reducing frown lines. It is often performed to erase many of the effects associated with aging, leaving you with a smoother, more youthful looking appearance. Younger adults who have a low brow or who already have deep frown lines due to stress or over activity of muscles may benefit from this procedure, as well.

A facelift can be used to treat problem areas around the face such as jowls and hanging skin. The goal is to make you look ten to fifteen years younger without changing your overall appearance. In order to maintain a natural look, some plastic surgeons prefer to use the endoscopic techniques that limit incision size and visibility.
Facelifts are often combined with a brow lift to create better harmony of the facial structures. For the same reason, laser resurfacing is often offered to reduce fine wrinkles around the mouth; a facelift corrects sagging and deep wrinkles.

Botox is a safe and effective way of addressing lines and wrinkles to the face that occur during the aging process. The process is simple and requires very little time with minimal recovery. Best of all, this is a non-surgical procedure and can, therefore, be performed in the office.
Botox is an affordable alternative to a facelift, has anyone had botox injections before and would like to share their success story?

Rhinoplasty, or nasal surgery, can enhance the shape, size, and general appearance of your nose by correcting a drooping nasal tip, a bump on the nasal bridge, and other unfavorable attributes. Chin enhancement is a procedure often performed alongside rhinoplasty to achieve optimal facial balance.
The procedure is done on an outpatient basis under sedation or general anesthesia. Working through nasal incisions, the nose’s framework of bone and cartilage is sculpted to the desired shape. Changes may be made to reshape the tip, reduce the size or width of the nose, increase or decrease the nasal bridge, or change the angle between the nose and the upper lip.

Collagen is a protein found in the skin of all mammals. While collagen is a component of your skin, it is not a substance that can be harvested easily from your own body. Zyderm(r) and Zyplast(r) Collagens are derived from purified bovine (cow) collagen.
Collagen is injected under the dermis layer to add fullness to areas of the face such as the lips, cheeks and forehead. Collagen injections are designed to smooth out facial lines on the surface of the face. It is used to replace the collagen a patient loses naturally over time. The effect is smoother facial scars and wrinkles.

After breast reduction, you’ll be wrapped in an elastic bandage or a surgical bra over gauze dressings. A small tube may be placed in each breast to drain off blood and fluids for the first day or two. You may feel some pain for the first couple of days-especially when you move around or cough-and some discomfort for a week or more.
The bandages will be removed a day or two after surgery, though you’ll continue wearing the surgical bra around the clock for several weeks, until the swelling and bruising subside. Your stitches will be removed in one to three weeks. You may be up and about in a day or two, but your breasts may still ache occasionally for a couple of weeks. You should avoid lifting or pushing anything heavy for three or four weeks.
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.

One of the most popular procedures in plastic surgery is breast augmentation. Whether it’s to enhance the size or shape of the breasts, breast augmentation can make a world of difference in the way you look and feel.
Breast augmentation can be performed to add size or proportion to a woman’s shape. For this procedure, implants filled with saline or silicone gel are placed in the breasts through incisions made under the arms, breasts, or around the nipples.

A thigh lift is the surgical correction of excess skin to the thighs. Over time, with weight loss or even during normal development, excess skin to the thighs can develop compelling women to seek correction. Many plastic surgeons will take all measures necessary to ensure that your results are the best that they can offer.
The traditional approach to a thigh lift involves removing excess skin around the thigh along its length, which extends from the knee to the groin. The scar is placed along the inside of the thigh so that it’s well concealed. In time, many patients have scars that blend and fade beautifully but sometimes the scar can remain red for months and even widen; this potential drawback, however, is more than worth it for the patient who can now fit normally into their clothes.

Patients who desire a thigh and buttock lift usually are seeking to reduce the size of their buttocks or lower trunk area. This plastic surgery procedure is best for individuals who are unable to reduce their size through exercise and dieting. Such factors may affect an individual’s confidence, leading them to seek their own thigh and buttock lift.
A thigh and buttock lift can help such individuals restore a thinner and fitter looking contour to their bodies. The buttocks are made smaller to better match the body of the patient. The plastic surgeon accomplishes this by removing excess fat and skin in the thigh and buttock and buttock areas and tightening the underlying muscle tissues. This not only helps to restore the physical appearance of the patient, but also restores self-confidence and respect to the patient.

As people age, the effects of gravity, exposure to the sun, and the stresses of daily life can be seen in their faces. Deep creases form between the nose and mouth; the jawline grows slack and jowly; folds and fat deposits appear around the neck.
A facelift (technically known as rhytidectomy) can’t stop this aging process. What it can do is “set back the clock,” improving the most visible signs of aging by removing excess fat, tightening underlying muscles, and redraping the skin of your face and neck. A facelift can be done alone, or in conjunction with other procedures such as a forehead lift, eyelid surgery, or nose reshaping.

Cheek implants (malar augmentation) and chin implants (mentoplasty) modify the underlying structure of the face to produce a pleasing combination of facial elements. Using components of classic beauty, in this case prominent cheekbones and a strong chin projection, your board certified plastic surgeon will create a countenance of balance and distinction.
The proportioning qualities of these procedures can benefit patients in many ways. Both can enhance a facelift, correct asymmetries and congenital defects, cheek implants can recontour sagging mid-facial tissues, and a chin implant can shorten the perceived length of the nose.

A forehead lift or “browlift” is a procedure that restores a more youthful, refreshed look to the area above the eyes. The procedure corrects drooping brows and improves the horizontal lines and furrows that can make a person appear angry, sad or tired.
In a forehead lift, the muscles and tissues that cause the furrowing or drooping are removed or altered to smooth the forehead, raise the eyebrows and minimize frown lines. Your surgeon may use the conventional surgical method, in which the incision is hidden just behind the hairline; or it may be performed with the use of an endoscope, a viewing instrument that allows the procedure to be performed with minimal incisions. Both techniques yield similar results — smoother forehead skin and a more animated appearance.

An arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, is a surgical procedure to remove loose skin and excess fat deposits in the upper arm. With age, upper arm skin can become loose and flabby. Plastic surgeons will discuss brachioplasty with patients who want to tighten this skin and look as good as they feel. In some cases your plastic surgeon may suggest that liposuction be used alone or in conjunction with an arm lift to remove excess fat in the upper arms.

Eyelid surgery (technically called blepharoplasty) is a procedure to remove 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 - features that make you look older and more tired than you feel, and may even interfere with your vision. However, it won’t remove crow’s feet or other wrinkles, eliminate dark circles under your eyes, or lift sagging eyebrows. While it can add an upper eyelid crease to Asian eyes, it will not erase evidence of your ethnic or racial heritage. Blepharoplasty can be done alone, or in conjunction with other facial surgery procedures such as a facelift or browlift.

The goal of an aesthetic breast augmentation is to achieve a proportional and natural appearance. While some patients specifically ask for an “exaggerated” look, most want to look as natural as possible. Breast tissue is not altered by a breast enlarging procedure. This operation is performed by placing an implant behind your own breast tissue, simply pushing it forwards and enlarging the appearance of the breast. Most patients have been exceedingly pleased with this operative procedure.
The increase in breast size will be limited by the tightness of your skin but significant improvement is usually achieved. The final decision regarding implant size must be made by the surgeon during the operation, but size will be discussed with you before the procedure and every effort will be made to create an optimal breast for you.

After the patient makes the decision to undergo rhinoplasty surgery, he or she will proceed with completing specified laboratory tests and a history and physical examination. The plastic surgeon will provide the patient with written preoperative and postoperative instructions, which are also discussed in their entirety. The patient will receive a list of medications that may conflict with the use of anesthesia. In addition, a re-evaluation appointment is available to the patient prior to the date of surgery. During this time before surgery, the patient should direct any and all questions and concerns to the plastic surgeon and his or her staff.

A forehead lift or “browlift” is a procedure that restores a more youthful, refreshed look to the area above the eyes. The procedure corrects drooping brows and improves the horizontal lines and furrows that can make a person appear angry, sad or tired.
In a forehead lift, the muscles and tissues that cause the furrowing or drooping are removed or altered to smooth the forehead, raise the eyebrows and minimize frown lines. Your surgeon may use the conventional surgical method, in which the incision is hidden just behind the hairline; or it may be performed with the use of an endoscope, a viewing instrument that allows the procedure to be performed with minimal incisions. Both techniques yield similar results – smoother forehead skin and a more animated appearance.

Reconstruction of a breast that has been removed due to cancer or other disease is one of the most rewarding surgical procedures available today. New medical techniques and devices have made it possible for surgeons to create a breast that can come close in form and appearance to matching a natural breast. Frequently, reconstruction is possible immediately following breast removal (mastectomy), so the patient wakes up with a breast mound already in place, having been spared the experience of seeing herself with no breast at all.
But bear in mind, post-mastectomy breast reconstruction is not a simple procedure. There are often many options to consider as you and your doctor explore what’s best for you.

Many features which are not desirable in a nose may be improved through cosmetic surgery. Noses may be made narrower, straighter, longer or shorter. Humps may be removed and the shape, size and angle and definition of the tip of the nose may be altered. Breathing problems caused by a deviated septum may be corrected. Rhinoplasty may be performed at any time after facial growth has been completed that is age 15-16 for women and age 16-17 for men. The ideal outcome in rhinoplasty is a natural appearing with balance and harmony, enhancing beauty of the eyes and lips.
Because of the special nature of the blood supply to the nose and surrounding area, it is possible for retrograde infections from the nasal area to spread to the brain. To reduce the risks follow the doctor’s advice both before and after the surgery.

Gynecomastia can be performed under general anesthesia or under local anesthesia with intravenous sedation and takes between 1 and 2 hours. Male breast reduction is a plastic surgery procedure where the reduction of breast volume can many times be accomplished with ultrasound assisted liposuction. In some cases, a small incision may need to be made in order to remove tissue directly. In rare cases, skin may be removed from around the areola.
Initial recovery time for gynecomastia is from 7 to 10 days. The complete recovery time is from 4 to 6 weeks. This means no heavy exercise such as lifting weights, vigorous workouts at the gym, or any other strenuous activity. It may take at least 6 months to a year for the final results.

Abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck, removes loose hanging abdominal skin and tightens weakened abdominal wall muscles. Because even diligent diet and exercise cannot fix these problems, each year more than 80,000 American women and men undergo tummy tuck surgery. Women and men who have a protruding belly, loose hanging abdominal skin and weak abdominal muscles are candidates for a full tummy tuck.
Mini-abdominoplasty, also known as a mini-tummy tuck, is reserved for those who have only a limited amount of loose skin or stretch marks in the lower abdomen, or above the public bone. Also, Mini tummy tuck does not usually involve the tightening of abdominal muscles. Therefore, it is sometimes combined with liposuction for patients with excessive fat, but limited looseness of the abdomen.

Otoplasty is a surgical process to reshape the ear. Some individuals are born with prominent ears while others may sustain injuries to the ear that may result in deformities. A variety of different techniques and approaches may be used to reshape congenital prominence of the ears or to restore damaged ears. Each individual seeking otoplasty is unique both in terms of the appearance of their ears and expectations for results following otoplasty surgery. The incisions used in this procedure may be placed in front of the ear, behind the ear or both in front & behind. This procedure can be performed under local or general anesthesia on an outpatient basis. Surgery time is approximately 1 to 2 hours and recovery time is approximately 2 to 3 weeks.

An eyelid lift (eye surgery) otherwise known as blepharoplasty, focuses on the eyes, which occupy a very prominent part of our facial features. It is the surrounding skin, rather than the eyes themselves, that conveys emotion. The tissue, muscle, fat, hair and lashes all contribute to the wide array of expressions. Age, sun exposure and hereditary factors all contribute to wrinkles, deep lines and puffiness around the eyes.
The aging process can cause unwanted changes in expression, causing us to look permanently fatigued and older than we really are. These changes in appearance can cause emotional distress and sometimes even visual impairment. An eyelid lift is designed to restore a more youthful appearance to your eyes. It may involve the upper lids, the lower lids, or both.

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. 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.

Human hands are highly visible. We extend our hands as a gesture of friendliness in order to form new friendships and acquaintances. Others can tell a lot by looking at our hands. For instance, the age of the individual can be estimated when looking at someone’s hand and while many people have cosmetic surgery to make their face look younger, their hands reveal their true age. With the hands looking years older than the facial features an obvious tell-tale sign that someone has had facial rejuvenation will be noticed by the average individual. For those who are concerned about the appearance of their hands, there are steps that can help prevent and more importantly reverse the signs of aging.

Liposuction is a procedure that can help sculpt the body by removing unwanted fat from specific areas, including the abdomen, hips, buttocks, thighs, knees, upper arms, chin, cheeks and neck. During the past decade, liposuction, which is also known as “lipoplasty” or “suction lipectomy,” has benefited from several new refinements. Today, a number of new techniques, including ultrasound-assisted lipoplasty (UAL), the tumescent technique, and the super-wet technique, are helping many plastic surgeons to provide selected patients with more precise results and quicker recovery times. Although no type of liposuction is a substitute for dieting and exercise, liposuction can remove stubborn areas of fat that don’t respond to traditional weight-loss methods.
If you’re considering liposuction, the information below will give you a basic understanding of the procedure - when it can help, how it is performed and how you might look and feel after surgery. It won’t answer all of your questions, since much depends on your individual circumstances. Please ask your plastic surgeon if there is anything about the procedure you don’t understand.

There are various methods to reduce the nipple size including removal of just the top of the nipple with tiny sutures to close the area. This helps decrease projection. Also nipple reduction can be done by removing tissue from the neck of the nipple, pushing the nipple back into the breast tissue and suturing the skin closed. The ability to breast feed can usually be preserved and sensation is almost always normal.

Recovery
Normal activity can resumed usually after 24 hours. Showers are permitted the next day. Dissolvable sutures need no removal but you will need to see the plastic surgeon for a post op visit after 7-10 days. Non -dissolvable sutures will need to be removed within 4-7 days. Swelling and pain are minimal.

Calf augmentation is a cosmetic surgery procedure designed to enhance the appearance of the calves, enlarge them, and to make them more proportional in size and shape to the rest of the lower extremity and body. In this procedure calf implants of a variety of shapes, sizes, and contours, are inserted over the existing calf muscles - Gastrocnemius and Soleus Muscles - to achieve fuller and shapelier calves.
Most people want their calves to look natural, full, and curvaceous. In many men, the overwhelming emphasis is to augment the size and bulk of the calves in order to make them look as if you have worked out.

Just as women can be quite self-conscious with underdeveloped breasts, large heavy or hanging breasts can cause embarrassment and difficulties all of their own. Plastic surgeons understand that over-development of the breast can cause a tremendous problem in self- esteem, the inability to exercise, difficulty with posture, backache and unwanted attention.
Many plastic surgeons have spent years perfecting their 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. Plastic surgeons are able to preserve ducts and sensation to the nipple, though your ability to breast-feed is most likely reduced. Scars are inconspicuous and can be covered by most bathing suits and low cut clothing.
Fortunately, insurance plans may cover breast reduction surgery. However, denial by insurance or a request by insurance that a very harsh or excessive reduction be carried out, prompts many patients to go outside of ordinary insurance coverage to seek help. At many centers for aesthetic surgery, private and comprehensive services are available. The centers pride themselves in providing affordable breast reduction surgery for those who don’t qualify under today’s restrictive insurance plans.

Liposuction can remove localized fat deposits from almost any area of the body. Many plastic surgeons use an “ultrasonic” technique, during which sound waves liquefy fat cells before liposuction begins. This allows the elimination of more tissue, especially in difficult to treat areas such as “love handles” and the upper abdomen. Ultrasound breaks up fibrous tissue in the fat, and gives smoother results than with other types of liposuction.
By injecting saline, anesthetic solution and epinephrine during liposuction (”tumescent” liposuction), bruising is minimized. Incisions for liposuction are small and easily hidden.

Botox Cosmetic, sometimes called “a facelift in a bottle”, is a purified protein. When small doses are injected directly into the muscles, impulses from the nerves to the injected muscle causing the wrinkles are blocked - allowing them to relax. This relaxing of the muscle allows the skin to smooth out persistent lines that which developed over time.
Botox Cosmetic treatments usually last about 10-15 minutes and keep the muscles that cause lines relaxed for 3 months. Results are dramatic and apparent within days and unlike surgery it is fast, simple and minimally invasive.

Prior to the development of prosthetic breast implants numerous materials were trialed for the purpose of augmenting the female breast. Up until the 1950’s materials included autogenous fat and dermal grafts, fat injections, paraffin injections, insertion of glass balls, ivory, rubber, and terylene wool.4,5 These materials frequently led to infection, tissue necrosis and firmness of the breast. The autogenous materials were uniformly troubled by resorption. The 1950-1960’s saw the use of many other products. Free injections of hydrocarbons, petroleum jelly, silicone oils, vegetable oils and bees wax were tried and led to many problems including infection, granulomas, fistulas and breast firmness.4,5 During this same time many different types of sponges were developed hoping that soft tissue ingrowth would improve the biocompatibility of these products. Polyvinyl and polyether were the most common sponge materials (figure 2) others included silastic and Teflon. Unfortunately these products were complicated by many of the same problems and were discontinued.
The development of the silicone gel prosthesis in 1962 marked a very important new era in breast surgery. Since Cronin and Gerow6 first reported its use very few other materials have been used for breast augmentation. This is partly due to the success of silicone devices and also by the subsequent FDA regulation of medical devices that was started shortly after the development of silicone gel devices.

Many plastic surgeons like to take into consideration the woman’s body type when discussing the size and type of the breast implant. Height and body weight are certainly important elements to consider. The width of the shoulder and the chest wall have a very important barring on how a particular breast implant will look on a particular woman. The waistline is critical to the size of the breast implant plastic surgeons recommend. The goal is to create female curves that are elegant and pleasing, starting from the armpit, gently curving outwards and then back into the waistline. A well shaped breast is one that gives curves to a woman that is balanced with the waist and hips, without being distracting, uncomfortable and looking awkward in clothing.

A tummy tuck is performed by first carefully marking the patient while they are standing. Careful pre-operative marking is essential to guiding the surgery to success. The procedure begins just above the pubis, by lifting the skin off the muscle from the pubic bone up to the bottom of the ribs. This releases the skin to allow the lower abdominal excess to be removed and the upper abdominal skin to be stretched downward to fill in the space from where the skin is removed. It also allows the surgeon to easily visualize the stretched out, thinned or separated muscles and to tighten them. Although the procedure does require an incision, many plastic surgeons’ experience and intimate understanding of the patient’s anatomy and body contours will allow the scar to be well hidden in a bikini bathing suit or even skimpy underwear. Like all procedures, Abdominoplasty does carry risks, including the risk of infection, bleeding and the risk from anesthetics. It is important to note that under the care of a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, great care will be taken to avoid or minimize these risks.

Arm lift (also known as brachioplasty) is a procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the upper arm. The goal of the surgery is to obtain a more toned, defined arm.
Liposuction may be used in conjunction with brachioplasty to further enhance results. Incisions are usually made on the inside of the arm in an inconspicuous area. Depending on the extent of the surgery, some arm lift procedures can be accomplished by making a small incision in the armpit area. Most people can return to work one to two weeks following arm lift surgery with minimal restrictions.

You may choose to have ear surgery if your ears are prominent or you feel your ears are too large for your face. Ear surgery will enhance your appearance by setting prominent ears back closer to your head or reduce the size of large ears. Most patients, young and old alike, are thrilled with the results of ear surgery. If you are considering otoplasty for your child—keep in mind that ears usually reach adult size by the age of four or five.
I believe that ear surgery can save a person from years of torment, specifically children. Has anyone had this surgery performed on them and would like to share their story?

Many plastic surgeons use a “tumescent technique.” After the induction of general anesthesia or intravenous sedation, a large volume, up to several quarts, of very dilute local anesthetic is injected into the areas to be treated. There is a tiny dose of adrenaline in the fluid as well, which makes the blood vessels in the area clamp down. This prevents perhaps 95% of the blood loss that would otherwise occur during liposuction.
Thin hollow stainless steel tubes are placed through short (perhaps 1/4″) incisions in the area treated and are used to suction away the appropriate amount of fat. Sheets of lightweight foam are placed on the treated areas, and a compression garment, like a corset, is placed. Bruising is usually scant.

Some men have deposits of excess breast tissue and fat in their breasts, giving them a female form. While sometimes related to medicines or a hormonal imbalance, these inciting causes are not often found to be a factor. Most cases are a matter of bad luck.

Correction of this problem known as gynecomastia is usually able to be accomplished with liposuction. In rare cases, there is so much extra skin that this must be reduced as well as the internal deposits.

This is an outpatient procedure performed at our own state of the art outpatient surgery center, requiring only 2-3 days of recovery time.

The breast lift procedure (mastopexy) is performed for patients who have sagging breasts due to pregnancy or aging. The nipples may be lower than desired giving the patient an aged look.

The procedure is similar to the breast reduction; however, the breast tissue and fat are preserved. Incisions will be made around the nipple, extending vertically to the fold of the breast and along the breast fold. This may be combined with a breast augmentation under certain circumstances.

The patient will have a supportive dressing for the first day then will be placed in a sports bra that should be worn for 3 to 4 weeks. The scars will fade tremendously over the following year.

The exotic look of a surgically revised asian eye has been perfected by some plastic surgeons. The procedure involves creating a pleasing double fold above the single eyelid. This procedure widens the eye into a beautifully shaped almond. Fine sutures leave no significant evidence of surgery.
I had no idea they had a completely different surgery for Asian eyelids. I wonder if it is more difficult than American eyelids. Has anyone had an experience with this that they would like to share?

You may be a candidate for thighplasty if you have experienced a loss of skin elasticity of the thigh, hip, or buttock areas. You may also desire this procedure if your skin in the thigh area is saggy, has an orange peel, flabby and/or dimpled appearance. The procedure may also be indicated if your thigh appearance improves dramatically when you lift the lax skin. If you are self-conscious about your lower body appearance you may also want to look into this procedure. The procedure is intended to produce tighter, more attractive thigh and buttock skin with improved contours. It is also intended to decrease irregularities in skin surface.
Has anyone ever had this surgery performed on them? Would you like to share you story?

Rhinoplasty (or Nose Refinement Surgery) is the most intricate cosmetic surgery performed today. Rhinoplasty can reduce or increase the size of your nose, change the shape of the tip or the bridge, narrow the span of the nostrils, or change the angle between your nose and your upper lip. It may also correct a birth defect or injury and help relieve some breathing problems.

The best candidates for rhinoplasty are people who are looking for improvement in the way they look, are physically healthy, psychologically stable, and have realistic expectations. During the initial consultation, the surgeon will evaluate the structure of your nose and face and discuss the possibilities for enhancement with you. The doctor will also explain some factors that can influence the procedure and results. These factors include the structure of your nasal bones and cartilage, the shape of your face, the thickness of your skin, your age, and your expectations.

Luxurious and medically appropriate for healthy, beautiful skin. All treatments are an hour long and include enzymes that gently remove dead tissue, chemical exfoliation to stimulate cell renewal, light facial massage, and masques to re-epitheliaze the skin. All formulas used are customized to meet your particular skin needs.
Skin care is vital in making one appear younger, has anyone had a skin care procedure performed on them that would like to share how it went?

You may be a candidate for ear pinning (otoplasty) if you have ears that stick out too far from the side of the head. You may also want to have an otoplasty procedure if your ears have an unusual or undesirable shape. The goal is to create ears that have normal folds and shape with a normal level protrusion from the side of the head.

Otoplasty can save a person, specifically a child from years of torment and teasing. Has anyone had ear surgery performed on them and would like to share the story?

Breast reconstruction is one of the most rewarding surgical procedures performed by plastic surgeons. There are several different procedures which can be used to create the form and shape of a breast, which will closely approximate the opposite side. They will establish a more normal appearance and, more importantly, allow you to regain your self esteem. Today, breast reconstruction is usually initiated at the time of mastectomy. It may involve the creation of a breast mound entirely using your own tissue (TRAM flap) or it may involve using a tissue expander, which is a balloon placed temporarily under the chest muscle. This balloon is expanded or stretched as it is filled with saline. This stretches the skin slowly to create a pocket large enough to accommodate a permanent implant.

Dermabrasion is most often used to improve the look of facial skin left scarred by accidents or previous surgery, or to smooth out fine facial wrinkles, such as those around the mouth. It’s also sometimes used to remove the pre-cancerous growths called keratoses. Dermaplaning is commonly used to treat deep acne scars.

The procedure is usually done under general anesthesia and takes about 3 hours. The location and length of the incision are dependent on the amount of skin to be removed. Through the incisions excess skin and fat are removed and deep tissues are tightened.

Breast Augmentation improves the size and appearance of the breasts. Women choose breast augmentation because they feel their breasts are too small, there is a discrepancy between the size of the breasts, or for further reconstruction following other breast surgery.

While plastic surgeons encourage approaching liposuction from a state of good health, diet and exercise, they can effectively remove stubborn areas of fat that won’t respond in any other way. Through a very tiny incision, which can be concealed, a plastic surgeon will place a tube deep beneath the skin. With a combination of ultrasound energy and suction, a plastic surgeon can remove and sculpt fatty layers. The liposuction they perform is usually circumferential which will tailor the area front to back and avoid any irregularities. Afterwards a compression garment or girdle will help control swelling and provide comfort while the skin shrinks and the bruising resolves.

This is the most fabulous time saving procedure ever. It involves gently implanting the perfect pigment of color that is suited to you. This pigment is implanted into your skin to create a natural looking makeup that never wears off. Perfect for eye liner, eye brows, and lip color.

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

This procedure is done under general anesthesia on an outpatient basis. This could be done with an incision within the hairline or endosmotically. Sutures are removed within 10 days. The bruising and swelling is apparent for less than 10 days. You may use camouflage makeup within a few days.

Nose reshaping is intended to produce a more attractive nasal shape and/or a nose in better proportion to other facial features. Rhinoplasty is done on an outpatient basis under sedation, and local or general anesthesia. Your plastic surgeon will decide which of the following techniques should be used:

* STANDARD RHINOPLASTY: Incisions are made inside the nostrils. The nasal bones, cartilage, and soft tissues are reshaped to improve the external contour.
* OPEN RHINOPLASTY: Frequently used for difficult or larger noses. Involves one external incision across the columella (strut between the nostrils). Bones, cartilage, and soft tissues are reshaped under direct vision.
* TIP-PLASTY: If only the nasal tip is abnormal, it may be corrected with either a standard or external (open) approach.
* Large nostrils may be reduced through tiny incisions at the outer base of the nostrils with either type of rhinoplasty.

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

Abdominoplasty, known more commonly as a “tummy tuck,” is a procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen and to tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall. This type of surgery can dramatically reduce the appearance of a protruding abdomen. This procedure produces a permanent scar, which, depending on the extent of the original problem and the surgery required to correct it, can extend from hip to hip.

You may be a candidate for thighplasty if you have experienced a loss of skin elasticity of the thigh, hip, or buttock areas. You may also desire this procedure if your skin in the thigh area is saggy, has an orange peel, flabby and/or dimpled appearance. The procedure may also be indicated if your thigh appearance improves dramatically when you lift the lax skin. If you are self-conscious about your lower body appearance you may also want to look into this procedure. The procedure is intended to produce tighter, more attractive thigh and buttock skin with improved contours. It is also intended to decrease irregularities in skin surface.

Excess skin and fat around the eyelid area can negatively affect your appearance and, in extreme cases, impair vision. Removing excess fat and skin from the upper and lower eyelid area can create a more youthful and refreshed appearance. During the eyelid surgery, an incision is made in the crease of the eyelid and excess skin and fat are removed.