When to Replace Breast Implants

Posted on February 8, 2021 by:

Okay. We’ll admit it. We drew you in with the title. In reality, there is almost no need to replace breast implants.

With advanced techniques and improved manufacturing practices, the vast majority of today’s implants stand up to the test of time.

That said, with a rupture rate of .5% per year for silicone and 1% for silicone, there are rare occasions when a breast implant may need replacement.

Why Would a Breast Implant Rupture?

Implant rupture can happen for any number of reasons including trauma from an accident, needle insertion during a biopsy, or even just the normal aging of the implant – although this last reason is far more common in implants sold before 2006.

There are distinct differences between a saline and a silicone rupture though.

Saline

When a saline implant ruptures or its valve fails, the saline typically leaks out over the course of a few days. As the body absorbs the saline, the breast looks increasingly deflated.

As such, it’s fairly simple to detect a saline rupture during a physical exam.

With silicone, things get a little more complicated.

Silicone

Because silicone is thicker than saline, when there’s a rupture, it happens more slowly. Furthermore, silicone gel is not absorbed by the body.

As we mentioned above, improved manufacturing practices have decreased the possibility of rupture. Modern silicone implants have thicker shells and more cohesive gel fillers than their predecessors. In the rare event that one ruptures, it often gets a tear in the shell which can compromise the appearance and shape of the implant and the breast. The patient may also experience pain, firmness, and swelling.

Other patients with a rupture, however, have no noticeable symptoms. This is known as a “silent rupture” and is not detectable through a simple physical examination. So the best way to ensure there is no silicone implant rupture is through an MRI, ultrasound, or, in some cases, a mammogram.

Then There’s Capsular Contracture

Another big reason for replacing breast implants is capsular contracture which may or may not be the result of a rupture.

It’s a normal and natural part of the healing process for the body to form a capsule of fibrous scar tissue around any implanted device. The capsule not only creates a protective barrier, but it also assists in keeping the implant in place so as to avoid slippage.

But when the body goes into overdrive to protect itself from the “foreign” body – in this case, the breast implant – the scar tissue tightens around the implant and then constricts it. This is known as capsular contracture. It can cause a misshapen breast and become painful.

The reasons that a tiny percentage of patients develop this condition is not entirely clear.

There are different grades of capsular contracture and the lower grades are often treated with breast massage and ultrasound therapy. Breast implant replacement or revision is only required for the most severe cases. And these are very rare.

Are You Concerned About Your Breast Implants?

Because the need to replace breast implants is so minimal, it’s likely that you don’t need replacements.

However, if you’re experiencing any change in size, shape, or cohesiveness with your breasts after receiving implants, it’s important you acknowledge these.

Don’t hesitate to contact us. We can answer any questions, address concerns, and put an action plan into place if need be.

Difference Between Full and Mini Abdominoplasty

Posted on February 3, 2021 by:

You’ve more than likely heard the term “tummy tuck.” This is the layman’s term for an abdominoplasty.

But did you know that there is both a full and a mini version? Which, of course, may leave you wondering about the difference between full and mini abdominoplasty procedures.

Many people take advantage of these surgical procedures for a variety of reasons.

The Role of An Abdominoplasty Procedure

There’s no arguing that a tummy tuck removes excess skin and fat to give patients a smoother and flatter abdomen. For many people, this is motivation enough.

Yet the procedure also involves the reconstruction of the abdominal wall musculature to tighten weak or distended muscles. This is especially helpful for women post-pregnancy who experience diastasis recti – a condition where the abdominal muscles stretch and separate to accommodate the expanding uterus. The result is a distended abdomen that no amount of diet or exercise can alleviate.

Removing excess fat and skin while tightening and toning abdominal muscles improves posture and can also help those who struggle with chronic back pain.

And while an abdominoplasty procedure is not meant to be a weight loss plan, bariatric patients who undergo abdominoplasty to reduce the size of their stomach are more likely to keep the weight off. This is an important factor in managing diabetes and fending off insulin resistance.

So then when do you need a full abdominoplasty, and when will a mini be sufficient?

The Difference Between Full and Mini Abdominoplasty

 

 

 

Without getting too technical, a mini abdominoplasty procedure only addresses issues from the belly button down.

That means when the issue is diastasis, as mentioned above, or other upper abdomen laxity, this calls for a full abdominoplasty. This procedure lifts the flap up to the xiphoid process and costal margin (rib cage and sternum) to repair diastasis from top to bottom. Umbilical hernias can also be repaired during this procedure.

On the other hand, if there is no laxity above the belly button and only skin excess and ptosis of the mons (extra weight/skin and bulging in the pubic area) below it, a mini can be performed. In the case of this procedure, the upper abdomen can also be suctioned, provided there is no laxity or diastasis.

 

How Are the Two Procedures Alike?

Both the full and mini abdominoplasty procedures are drainless. In the earlier days of tummy tucks, cumbersome drains were part of recovery. Patients had to contend with two or three drains and wires coming off their bodies. There was also concern around the possibility of bacteria entering through the portal entries created by these drains and hoses.

Fortunately, those days are gone.

In addition, each of the procedures utilizes a nerve block for post op pain. Long-lasting anesthetic drugs ease some of the pain during early recovery by blocking the nerves of the abdomen during the procedure. The patient wakes up with the area numbed, and continues to feel some level of pain relief for up to three days. While it doesn’t eliminate the pain, it greatly reduces reliance on narcotics.

The surgeries generally run 2.5 – 3.5 hours to complete and it’s not unusual for a skilled plastic surgeon to recommend the addition of liposuction of the flanks in both procedures.

Patients are able to shower the day after their abdominoplasty and those with desk jobs will only need to take one to two weeks off for recovery. They can engage in light cardio after two weeks, light resistance training after four weeks, and can return to exercises involving the core such as planks and squats in about six weeks time.

Are You Considering a Tummy Tuck?

Now that you know the difference between full and mini abdominoplasty procedures, you’re better educated on which one is right for you.

Ultimately though, you’ll need to consult with a surgeon to determine the most effective plan for your needs.

So contact us for a free consultation. We’ll guide you on the most effective route to a firmer, flatter belly that will restore your confidence.

Increase Muscle Mass With Emsculpt

Posted on January 26, 2021 by:

Are you a fitness buff but are finding that your workouts aren’t exactly working out? That no matter how many grimacing crunches or grunting dead lifts you perform, it doesn’t seem to make a difference?

You’ve hit the dreaded workout plateau.

It’s that unpleasant space of existence where your workouts seem for naught because NOTHING is changing. Fortunately, you can lose fat and increase muscle mass with Emsculpt.

And here’s the kicker – you need only lie back and relax.

Build Muscle Mass With No Effort?

At this point, you may be shaking your head and getting ready to occupy your mind with something else. And our asking you to suspend your disbelief for a moment may come across as downright audacious.

We get it.

But Emsculpt is the real deal. It’s not a magical cream or elixir. Rather, it’s technology that uses non-invasive, high-intensity focused electromagnetic (HIFEM) energy to implode fat cells while simultaneously building muscle.

Furthermore, it’s cleared by the FDA for the purpose of improving tone and strengthening muscles. It’s a completely non-invasive procedure that triggers 20,000 supramaximal muscle contractions in the course of 30 minutes.

What this essentially means is that it’s able to affect the muscles in a way that would be impossible for you to do voluntarily. For example, it’s as if you could do 20,000 sit-ups in the course of 30 minutes.

Emsculpt Is Not Just for the Abs Though

Many who seek out Emsculpt procedures focus on improving their abs. And it’s extremely effective for this area. Plus, toning the abdominal muscles with have the natural outcome of increasing core strength and stability. This, in turn, can relieve back pain.

In addition, studies show a 10% narrowing of the gap of diastasis recti – the partial or complete separation of the rectus abdominis that creates a protruding belly pooch and is common following pregnancy.

Yet Emsculpt is also commonly used for the buttocks. There are even smaller paddles utilized to target the biceps, triceps, thighs, and calves.  For instance, golfers and tennis players use Emsculpt to improve the strength of their swings and explosive maneuvers.

And all with no needles, no incisions, and no anesthesia.

What to Expect From Emsculpt

Think of Emsculpt as an intense workout, except all the work is done for you with no sweating and no downtime. There is also no pre/post treatment preparation; although coming in hydrated is always beneficial for any body sculpting procedure.

Emsculpt treatments run 30 minutes per treatment and there will be a minimum of 4 sessions scheduled 2-3 days apart.

So here’s how it works:

You relax back onto a table while a small device is strapped over the area you’re targeting. Facilitators give you tips on ways to breathe and relax through the session.

Power from the device slowly increases and your muscles begin to contract, creating a very intense vibration that may feel strange at first. After a few contractions, the machine switches to a tapping action in order to break down the lactic acid your muscles produce during the contractions.

At the end of 30 minutes, you’re done. You’ll likely feel some muscle soreness the next day – just as you would after an intense workout. Visible improvements appear two to six weeks after the last session and continue to improve for several weeks following the sessions.

It’s important to note that this treatment is most optimal for patients who are in overall good health, physically active, have a BMI of 30 or under, and want to enhance where their regular exercise program has plateaued.

In other words, it’s not meant to replace regular exercise and good eating habits.

Ready to Lose Fat and Increase Muscle Mass with Emsculpt?

Hitting a workout plateau is discouraging.

So why not lose that problematic fat and increase muscle mass with Emsculpt? It will help you reach your next fitness level while feeling great and looking amazing!

Contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll put together a treatment plan tailored to your specific goals.

Improve Your Post Pregnancy Body

Posted on January 20, 2021 by:

Having children is wonderful. They can bring so much joy and meaning to your life.

But let’s be honest – pregnancy and delivering babies can do a serious number on the body. Maybe you were fortunate enough to have ascribed to a strict prenatal exercise regimen and diet so that your pregnancy didn’t impact you as much.

If you’re like the majority of women, however, you may be dealing with weight gain, a distended abdomen, and stretch marks that affect your confidence, self-esteem, and overall well-being.

So how can you improve your post pregnancy body?

Will Diet and Exercise Help?

Given the extensive list of benefits, nobody would ever discourage sticking with a healthy diet and getting regular exercise.

On that list of benefits is weight loss. And with attention to a low-fat diet and moderate exercise, you may be able to lose some of the weight you gained around the waist and thighs due to pregnancy.

But unless you’re genetically blessed, diet and exercise alone will not have an impact on stretch marks. These are the result of overstretched collagen and once collagen is overstretched, it cannot simply snap back. It’s rather like a Slinky.

Furthermore, if you find that your strict diet and exercise routine is not flattening your abdomen to pre-pregnancy levels, you could be dealing with a common condition called diastasis recti.

What Is Diastasis Recti?

Scary as it sounds, diastasis recti happens in a majority of childbearing women.

When the uterus expands outward, it can cause the abdominal muscles to stretch so as to accommodate the baby. When the connective tissue is overstretched, the abdominal muscles actually separate.

While for some women the gap closes postpartum, for others, this is not the case. And if the gap exceeds 1.5 cm, it can only be corrected with abdominoplasty.

Abdominoplasty – the doctorly term for a tummy tuck – is a surgical procedure that reconstructs the abdominal wall musculature while reducing excessive fat and skin around the abdomen. It is a major component of a full mommy makeover.

The Wonders of a Tummy Tuck

A post pregnancy abdomen that’s been subjected to diastasis recti lacks the ability to stabilize the core. A tummy tuck procedure will tighten weak and distended muscles to improve abdominal tone and reconstruct the functional component of the abdomen to relieve back hygiene and core function.

But here’s another big plus: a tummy tuck also removes stretch marks.

Furthermore, if an umbilical hernia is encountered during a tummy tuck surgery, it can be corrected simultaneously with the repair of diastasis. Strengthening and restructuring the abdominal wall also decreases the likelihood of another hernia forming and requiring emergency surgery.

A tummy tuck may also be indicated for women with Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI) issues caused by an overstretched, weakened, or damaged pelvic floor as a result of pregnancy. During the procedure, a board-certified plastic surgeon uses soft tissue near the pelvic area to create a slight bladder obstruction. The result is a clear reduction in incontinence.

And finally, having a tummy tuck will increase your exercise tolerance because removing excess skin and strengthening the abdominal muscles makes exercise easier. You’ll not only be able to get back to your pre-pregnancy exercise routines, but you’ll regain that lost confidence and self-esteem too.

Improve Your Post Pregnancy Body With a Tummy Tuck

In so many cases, there is no amount of diet and exercise that improves the post pregnancy destruction that can happen.

Accepting the ravages of pregnancy doesn’t have to be the trade-off for having kids though. With an amazingly effective procedure like a tummy tuck, you can improve your post pregnancy body without majorly interrupting your life.

Contact us today for a free consultation with our surgeons. And find out how a tummy tuck can help you get a flatter belly, firmer skin, and renewed confidence.

The Battle of Silicone Vs. Saline Implants

Posted on January 12, 2021 by:

Are you considering breast augmentation to achieve a more youthful appearance and increase confidence?

If so, you’ve got a choice to make.

It’s actually fallacious to say “battle” when it comes to the question of silicone vs. saline implants. One is not looking to beat out the other.

Both options are safe and viable; with each having its advantages. This isn’t to say there aren’t some differences though.

The Basics of Silicone Vs. Saline Implants

Both silicone and saline implants are made from silicone.

The main difference is silicone implants are made fully of silicone and filled with a silicon gel, while saline implants have an outer shell that’s constructed of silicone and then later filled with saline.

Some people believe that silicone implants look and feel more natural. Plus, they come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and degrees of firmness so you know exactly what will be implanted.

Meanwhile, saline implants are inserted when empty and then filled with a sterile saline solution once in place. Some patients prefer the idea of saline solution versus silicone gel in their bodies.

Yet, silicone gel more closely simulates breast tissue. So saline implants may end up feeling firmer than natural breast tissue.

So Which Is Right For You?

We’ll dig a little deeper to look at the advantages and drawbacks of each option.

Silicone

If you have minimal natural breast tissue, your plastic surgeon may suggest silicone implants. Silicone gel is not only lighter than saline, but it’s also more viscous. Current silicone implants closely mimic the feel of real breast so that even those with thin breast tissue can achieve a more natural look.

This doesn’t mean if you have ample breast tissue that silicone isn’t the best choice for you though. If your primary focus is on a more natural appearance and the ability to choose the shape, then silicone is a great choice.

It is advised that no one under the age of 22 get a silicone implant. While it’s legal, the FDA only approves silicone implants for over the age of 22.

Monitoring for possible silicone implant rupture is done with an MRI.

Saline

Saline implants, on the other hand, don’t come with such a recommendation. If there is a rupture, it is saline (saltwater) that leaks into the body so it’s not a safety issue. Plus, a saline rupture causes a completely visible deflation of the breast volume and the diagnosis is easily made in a physical exam.

Furthermore, saline implants are FDA-approved for those over the age of 18.

As we mentioned above, silicone is often the better choice for those with minimal breast tissue. Thus, saline could be the better option if you have more ample natural breast tissue and would prefer to avoid getting silicone gel.

In addition, if you’re on a tighter budget, then you may want to consider saline for that reason. They typically run a few hundred dollars less than silicone. Of course, you’ll want to go in with the whole picture before making price the determining factor.

Discuss Your Options

If you’re ready to enjoy all of the benefits of breast augmentation, then contact us today to help you answer the question of silicone vs. saline implants.

Our board-certified plastic surgeons will thoroughly discuss your needs and desires, and then consult with you on the absolute best option for your unique situation.

How Your BMI Affects Surgery

Posted on January 6, 2021 by:

Do you struggle with your weight?

Removing excess weight through a surgical procedure such as a tummy tuck or a breast reduction can really help.

But if you’ve been told that your body mass index (BMI) measurement is on the higher end, you might be wondering how your BMI affects surgery. Will it make things more complicated?

The short answer is, not nearly as much as you might think!

What Is BMI?

Every person has a BMI measurement. It’s calculated from your height and weight to determine if you’re at a healthy weight.

In the U.S., the formula for determining BMI is your weight in lbs x 703/ your weight in in2. In other words, you multiply your weight by 703. Then you take that number and divide it by your height in inches, squared (in2).

Of course, the easiest way to determine yours is with a BMI calculator.

The “ideal” BMI for most adults is in the 18.5 to 24.9 range.

Below 18.5 is considered underweight, while the 25 to 29.9 range is considered overweight.

Once someone scores between 30 to 39.9, they are in the obese range. Anything over 40 is considered morbidly obese.

At the end of the day though, BMI is really just a number. For many people, the number isn’t a true reflection on their actual health. As an example – since muscle is more dense than fat, it’s possible that a perfectly healthy weightlifter could be considered obese.

How BMI Affects Surgery

The truth is, surgeons treat elevated BMI patients all the time. With advancements in medical technology, some of the previous challenges that obese patients faced can now be mitigated.

For example, those who are overweight or obese are more likely to have sleep apnea – meaning they temporarily stop breathing while sleeping. This can make administering general anesthesia seem dicey. But it’s not.  Sleep apnea can be easily treated in the recovery room with CPAP devices.

Furthermore, issues such as high blood pressure (which is common in obese patients) can be closely monitored and controlled by board-certified anesthesiologists. An electrocardiogram (EKG) can also be administered pre-op to determine if there are other cardiac issues.

To reduce the risk of blood clots in patients with a higher BMI reading, subcutaneous heparin is given before the operation to effectively lower this

What Causes Capsular Contracture?

Posted on December 30, 2020 by:

There’s no arguing that breast augmentation surgery is one of the most popular and effective procedures in the United States.

For women who have undergone a mastectomy, or those who simply want to restore a more youthful appearance to their breasts, the procedure is a godsend.

What’s more, with the many advances in medical and surgical technology, complications from breast augmentation surgery are rare.

Even so, they do occur. And the most common complication is that of capsular contracture.

What Is Capsular Contracture?

Any time the body is subject to the insertion of a foreign body, it naturally forms a capsule of scar tissue around the implanted object. This is a normal part of the healing process. Whenever the body doesn’t immediately recognize an object, it forms a barrier to isolate the object and protect itself.

In the case of breast implants, fibrous scar tissue forms around the implant. This may sound problematic, but it’s actually a positive thing. The capsule assists in keeping the implant in place so as to avoid any slippage.

For a small handful of patients though, it CAN become problematic. If the body goes into overdrive in its protective measures, the scar tissue may tighten around the implant and then squeeze it. This is known as capsular contracture and it can not only distort the shape of the breast, but it can cause it to rise higher on the chest and even create chronic pain.

Why Does It Happen?

Generally speaking, the reasons that these few patients develop capsular contracture while others do not are not well known. One factor is the way an individual body responds to “invasion.”

Since each body is different and the composition of connective tissue varies from patient to patient, there is no universal response. This is the same reason that one person might develop thick scar tissue after sustaining a deep cut, while another may only experience subtle scarring that eventually fades.

In other words, each person has a unique healing process. Some immune systems respond more poorly to foreign objects than others. Furthermore, if a patient’s immune system is already compromised – such as it might be after receiving radiation therapy – he or she is more likely to experience capsular contracture.

Additional factors such as a ruptured implant, a hematoma, bacteria, or a genetic predisposition for scarring can also increase one’s risk.

What Are the Signs?

If one or both breasts look or feel different after surgery, it could be capsular contracture. Although it’s possible there will be no symptoms at all. At first, at least. This is known as a Grade 1 capsular contracture.

At the Grade 2 level, the breasts have either minor or no noticeable change in shape, but may feel somewhat firm to the touch.  At this point, breast massage can alleviate and begin to reverse any further progress.

If the breasts are firm to the touch and appear overly round or have misshapen nipples, this is a Grade 3 contracture. The breasts also tend to look hard – although the patient may experience little to no pain. A surgeon may recommend ultrasound therapy with targeted massage to help break up the excess scar tissue and release the capsule.

With a Grade 4 capsular contracture, the breasts are hard and very obviously misshapen. Patients experience tenderness, soreness, and pain when their breasts are touched. This highest level of capsular contracture typically requires breast implant revision surgery.

But once again, capsular contracture at any level is not a common occurrence. And a Grade 4 is even more unusual.

Is Breast Augmentation Right for You?

Of course, complications during plastic surgery are now very rare, both because of advances in surgical techniques and stringent sanitizing. In addition, plastic surgeons can more easily predict which patients are likely to experience capsular contracture and recommend alternatives.

So if you’re considering breast augmentation, contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll take every single factor into consideration before advising this surgery.

That way, you can assure the best possible results.

 

 

Introducing the RHA Collection

Posted on December 22, 2020 by:

In the worlds of plastic surgery and skincare in the United States, we’ve grown familiar with injectables brand names such as Juvederm. And for good reason.

Juvederm is a hyaluronic filler know for effectively smoothing and plumping areas of the face where there’s a lack of volume.

Yet for the past five years in Europe, doctors and skincare specialists have utilized a new family of fillers to great success. They’re known as the RHA Collection and are now available here in the United States.

And they’re truly revolutionary.

Turn up the Volume

As we age, the production of hyaluronic acid at the cellular level steadily decreases. The lack of this means a decrease in elasticity. And all too soon, we start to notice sagging skin and stagnant facial wrinkles.

Like Juvederm, the RHA collection consists of an innovative hyaluronic acid formula that targets these areas to add volume and rejuvenate your skin. The result? A more youthful and exuberant appearance.

But where the RHA Collection has an advantage is with dynamic lines and folds that develop.

Your Face Is Constantly in Motion

Well, except maybe when you’re asleep. But the point is, decades of movements such as talking, laughing, squinting, smiling, and frowning create what’s known as dynamic wrinkles and folds.

These are more difficult to treat than stagnant wrinkles because dermal fillers up until now often relied on immobilizing muscles. This could cause treated areas to appear stiff and left patients feeling challenged to emote through facial cues – which is an important skill.

The RHA Collection fillers are FDA-approved and specially formulated to treat these dynamic lines and folds, while simultaneously allowing for the gel to move easily with the facial muscles without immobilizing them. This produces an outcome that is far more youthful and natural in appearance.

What Does the RHA Collection Refer to?

The term collection refers to three different treatment options; RHA 2, RHA 3, and RHA 4.

RHA 2 is best for perioral wrinkles. These are the lines that occur around the mouth and lips and are often the first to show up on the face. RHA 2 may also be used for the radial cheek lines, as well as for smoothing at a more surface level.

RHA 3 gets in a little deeper and is often used for the wrinkles that appear at the corners of the mouth (also known as commissures), as well as the nasolabial folds that are developing around the nose.

For deeper nasolabial folds, as well as lines in the lower face and jawline, RHA 4 is recommended. It’s also a top choice for contouring the cheeks in the midface.

In a nutshell, the RHA product your skincare specialist or plastic surgeon chooses will be the one that most closely resembles the natural product in your body. They will consider which one offers the most flexibility in usage, natural results, and longevity.

Take Advantage of This European Treasure

Are you ready to see what the RHA Collection can offer you?

Contact us today for a free consultation with one of our specialists to find out how RHA could give your face the youthful boost it needs and you want.

When all is said and done, you’ll look younger, your skin will be brighter, and you’ll smile and laugh with confidence.

The Increasing Popularity of Plastic Surgery

Posted on December 14, 2020 by:

While many businesses are sadly suffering the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, plastic surgeons have seen an uptick in patients.

Some of this is a result of the Zoom boom – the surge in bookings for surgical and non-surgical treatments in an attempt to smooth out what is now known as lockdown face.

It makes sense given the fact that so many people are in Zoom meetings all day and suddenly faced with every glaring imperfection and flaw they were able to previously ignore.

There are many other reasons behind the increasing popularity of plastic surgery though.

Technological Advances

Because plastic surgery has no specific regional anatomic focus, it has always been a discipline driven by technique and technology. An increased understanding of anatomy over the past 25 years has allowed for a notable evolution in techniques.

For instance, a more comprehensive understanding of blood supply to the skin, fascia, muscle, and bone has enabled innovative and ingenious improvements of many traditional reconstructive procedures.

Implants have come a long way since the 1940s when advances in material science allowed for their development. It’s now understood that such materials need to match the biomechanical characteristics of the tissue being replaced. There continue to be impressive strides in the development of such biomaterials.

There have also been huge advances in medical computer-assisted imaging technology. These have been transformative in plastic surgery, and particularly for craniofacial surgery where surgeons fix skeletal deformities by repositioning and reassembling the numerous elements of the cranium and facial bones.

Finally, it’s now understood that wound healing is a process involving a dynamic sequence of coordinated cellular processes involving multiple growth factors. As such, therapeutic interventions in just the last 12 years have made more than a dozen growth factors available to promote such healing.

Of course, the increasing popularity goes beyond science.

Popularity of Plastic Surgery Includes Better Health

Carrying a lot of extra weight is tough on the body. Not only does the heart have to work harder and there is an increased risk of diabetes, but excess skin and fat results in weaker core, poor posture, and even back pain.

Both a tummy tuck and breast reduction can help patients strengthen the core, improve posture, and decrease back and even neck pain.

Plastic surgery can also improve vision. As we age, muscles around the eyes weaken and can cause the upper lid to droop so much it interferes with vision. Plastic surgery can remedy this.

Furthermore, many people struggle with a deviated septum. Whether it’s a genetic condition or the result of trauma to the nose, a deviated septum often results in problems with drainage, snoring, and breathing – all of which pose health risks. Plastic surgery corrects this to restore breathing and improve health.

Increased Confidence and Social Acceptance

Decades ago, there wasn’t the same understanding of plastic surgery’s health benefits. In fact, it was often considered a luxury afforded only by the rich. And even at that, people would still whisper about those who had “nose jobs” or snicker disapprovingly about women who got their “boobs done.”

Those days are long gone.

It is now a widely accepted that improving your appearance through plastic surgery can make a huge difference in your life. And it’s far from just vanity.

A research study published in Clinical Psychological Science found that people who chose to undergo plastic surgery were actually happier. When they felt better about their bodies and their appearance, they experienced increased confidence, improved self esteem, a greater sense of satisfaction, and more overall joy in life.

Most patients also adopt healthier lifestyles. Without being bogged down by excess weight, pain, or difficulty breathing, they are able to engage in physical activity. This leads to more mindful eating.

At the end of the day, it all trickles down to improved job performance, better social interactions, and an increased sense of well-being.

Find More Joy in Your Life With Plastic Surgery

Given all of the above, it’s no wonder the popularity of plastic surgery has surged. Plus, it’s more affordable than ever. Of course, the cost of the procedure is not nearly as crucial as finding a surgeon whose primary focus is your safety.

So if you’ve been living with a condition that can be remedied by plastic surgery but still have worries, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation. Our highly qualified board-certified physicians will put your mind at ease.

 

Keep Your Skin Healthy with SkinMedica, Obagi, and Alastin Products

Posted on December 7, 2020 by:

 

It’s impossible to deny the multiple benefits of plastic surgery to achieve younger looking skin.

Advanced technology and procedures have made it easier than ever to tighten sagging skin and lessen or eliminate age spots, blemishes, and scars.

But plastic surgeons also incorporate and recommend skin care products from lines such as SkinMedica, Ogabi, and Alastin to maintain stunning results.

We’ll take a look at these three lines of skincare products.

The Science of SkinMedica

The experts at SkinMedica studied the science of the skin’s own healing in formulating this impressive line of products.

They wanted to achieve the treatment of myriad skin issues in single formulations – unlike a number of other skin care brands that require multiple products to achieve the same results.

So whether you’re trying to tighten sagging skin around the neck, reduce circles under the eyes, or target pesky crow’s feet, SkinMedica has you covered with proven ingredients such as vitamins E & C, Retinol, tea tree oil, and salicylic acid.

Simply put, SkinMedica has the products you need to brighten and rejuvenate your skin.

Anti-Aging With Obagi

Similar to SkinMedica, the Obagi line incorporates powerful and effective ingredients to treat a variety of skin issues. They address the skin in its totality.

Obagi skin care systems seek to perfect specific skin conditions by transforming cellular functions. From serums to lotions to cleansers, each product is part of an anti aging system that aims to keep skin radiant and flawless.

At the end of the day, Obagi skin care systems deliver on their promise to achieve healthy and naturally hydrated skin that’s smooth, free of sensitivity, and functioning at its optimal level to fight the signs of aging.

Peptides and Allastin

If you’re not familiar with peptides, they are short chains of amino acids that serve as the building blocks of certain proteins needed by the skin. These include collagen and elastin, which both deteriorate as we age. And as they decrease, the skin’s ability to bounce back does as well.

Alastin utilizes a unique TriHex peptide to address this.

Using a serum or moisturizer that contains peptides leads to firmer and healthier skin. In the case of Alastin, it actually penetrates the skin and institutes biological changes in the extracellular matrix (space between the cells).

It all sounds very scientific, but it’s really quite simple. Alastin is a biologically active substance that targets this matrix to encourage the increased manufacture of collagen and elastin. And that equals younger, thicker, and healthier skin.

SkinMedica, Obagi, and Alastin During Healing

Because the properties of all of these products help facilitate the skin’s natural healing processes, they are frequently used in both preparation for and recovery from specific plastic surgery procedures.

For example, Alastin may be used to infuse peptides during recovery from  a neck lift. Or perhaps your surgeon will advise the use of a SkinMedica or Obagi product around the eyes after a face lift. There are even body lotions they can recommend for any areas where you want tighter skin, including your arms, thighs, belly, or buttocks.

So whether you’re healing from a procedure, or simply looking for radiant and more youthful skin, there will be products from any one (or all) of these lines that will give you just that.

Beautiful Skin is Healthy Skin

Having smooth, supple, and younger looking skin is always in style.

SkinMedica, Obagi, and Alastin skincare products can deliver on that and transform your skin.

So if you’re curious about the vast array of benefits these products can offer you, contact us today. You can set up a free consultation with one of our skincare experts who can answer your questions and guide you to the products that’ll be just right for you.