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Monthly Archives: August 2010
Posted by Medical Staff Writers on August 30, 2010
 Under eye circles can be the result of genetics, poor sleep or an unhealthy diet, and there are a number of cosmetic surgery procedures that can help to lighten up the skin under the eyes and create a more refreshed, rejuvenated look. Still, some experts say that makeup can be just as effective for covering up under eye circles and may be a convenient alternative to cosmetic or plastic surgery.
According to recent surveys and commentary from Judith August Cosmetic Solutions, “For a number of years, cosmetic surgery grew in popularity as the option of choice for eliminating under eye discoloration. According to recent surveys, however, the recession has caused a shift toward women, and men, opting instead for cosmetic coverage solutions.” Read more »
Posted by Medical Staff Writers on August 28, 2010
Heidi Montag has been in the media spotlight in the past few months for her plastic surgery “addiction” and slew of cosmetic procedures that have completely transformed here appreance. The reality star’s plastic surgeon was recently killed in a car accident after becoming trapped in a vehicle and suffering major head injuries. His Jeep veered off the Pacific Coast Highway and the Ventura County Fire Department attempted to pull him out of the car using a helicopter, but had to call it off. Dr. Ryan was pronounced dead at the scene. Read more »
Posted by Medical Staff Writers on August 27, 2010
 Even though many celebrity worshippers change their wardrobes, color their hair and update their makeup to look like their favorite Hollywood star, plastic surgery may be an extreme measure for many. According to Dr. Michael Fiorillo, a board-certified celebrity plastic surgeon in New York City, patients who want to look exactly like their favorite celebrity may be taking their admiration too far. (Source: FoxNews.com).
All plastic and cosmetic surgery patients undergo a face-to-face consultation with their doctor to determine what their goals are, and if they are in a mentally healthy state to undergo a procedure. In some cases, the patient is suffering from body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), or has very low self-esteem. Plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures will not correct these deeper issues, and for many, psychiatric help is the best solution. Dr. Fiorillo points out that these types of patients, “need a psychiatrist, basically. You are not going to make somebody look like someone else. It is an unattainable goal.” Read more »
Posted by Medical Staff Writers on August 26, 2010
 Many women who get a mastectomy don’t realize that they are eligible to get a breast reconstruction procedure at no cost. These women are simply not told that they are good candidates for breast reconstruction after mastectomy, and that insurance will pay for the procedure. Doctors are now required to inform patients about their options under a new law, A10094B/S6993-B/Information and Access to Breast Reconstruction Surgery.
Many insurers in New York do cover breast reconstruction procedures after a mastectomy, but less educated, poor and minority women are often unaware that they can get this procedure without paying any out of pocket expenses. According to Evan Garfein, MD, a plastic and reconstructive surgeon at Montefiore Medical Center, “a disproportionate number of women who are at a socioeconomic disadvantage do not get breast reconstruction surgery after a mastectomy for one of several reasons. Either they are unaware of it as an option, they do not know it is covered by Medicaid and Medicare insurance programs, they do not know where to gain access to the procedures, or it is never mentioned to them by their doctors.”
Dr. Garfein authored a bill that was signed into law to change this trend. He hopes that the new law will ensure that hospitals inform patients that they are eligible to have breast reconstruction procedures with insurance coverage. This may help dozens of women who are being treated for breast cancer have some hope of improving their appearance after mastectomy surgery.
Dr. Garfein notes, “breast reconstruction has been repeatedly shown to improve the quality of life and overall well-being of women who have been treated for breast cancer. This new law will ensure that breast cancer patients from all socioeconomic groups are informed about their options regarding breast reconstruction and about where to get the procedure.”
(Source: Medical News Today)
Posted by Medical Staff Writers on August 25, 2010
 The American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) has developed the AAFPRS Medical Protective Insurance Program to underwrite members who are performing more than 20% facial plastic surgery in their class.
Mark Wittel, VP of Agency Sales of Medical Protective, states, “As the nation’s leading healthcare liability insurer – with three times the longevity of our nearest competitor – Medical Protective looks forward to working with AAFPRS members and continuing to deliver the nation’s strongest defense of assets and reputation…not only for today, but for the long-to-resolve claims that arise years down the road.”
Members who qualify within their class receive a 5% credit, and members who are also certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery board receive another 5% credit on services and products.
By teaming up with Medical Protective, facial plastic surgeons may be able to enjoy more efficient insurance claims processing, and also ensure patient safety education.
Medical Protective is the leading company for medical malpractice insurance and the country’s strongest medmal carrier. The company offers several types of insurance coverage programs for physicians, hospitals and plastic surgeons, along with a suite of services, including risk management, practice software and provider enrollment and credentialing services. The company serves over 70,000 healthcare providers nationwide, and is owned by General Electric.
The MedMal coverage program offers several solutions for healthcare professionals, including plastic surgeons, who are looking for independent coverage options. Some of the benefits of this program include more control over the coverage selection with expanded coverage options and a defense attorney that represents the insured healthcare professional. The company creates customized, tailored programs for different organizations, agencies and entities. The partnership with the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery means that the members can enjoy several insurance coverage benefits while maintaining the organization’s high standards.
Posted by Medical Staff Writers on August 23, 2010
 Many women who eat healthy, exercise regularly and are otherwise in great shape still have a few extra pounds and inches located under the bra line and around the back. Those extra few ounces and pounds of body fat can be eliminated completely with the help of the bra line back lift procedure, an innovative plastic surgery procedure that helps eliminate the unsightly rolls of fat and skin underneath the bra line to create a smooth, contoured appearance.
The bra line back lift is designed to remove extra folds of skin on the back and is performed by a plastic surgeon. The entire procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and requires making a small incision along the bra line before extracting the localized fatty deposits. The surgeon can then remove any excess skin and tissues around the back area, and reconnect the surrounding tissue using with a set of stitches. The entire procedure typically takes about an hour, and can cost up to $10,000 depending on the amount of fat that needs to be removed, and the location of the plastic surgeon’s office.
The bra line back lift is a specialized procedure, and not all plastic and cosmetic surgeons may have extensive experience performing it. It is important for patients to look at before and after photos of patients who have undergone the procedure, and ensure that they are aware of the risks and side effects associated with the procedure. The best candidates for this procedure are women who are in reasonably good shape and of good health, and who have sagging skin and excess body fat located right underneath their bra line. Some men who want a shapelier appearance and more contoured silhouette may also be good candidates for the procedure.
Posted by Medical Staff Writers on August 20, 2010
Men and women who are embarrassed by the effects of underarm sweating may be able to reduce sweating with Vaser ultrasound treatments. The same technology behind the Vaser body contouring device is proving to be effective for reducing the occurrence of underarm sweating, and can be performed under light sedation. The Vaser procedure to reduce sweating takes approximately 25 minutes and can be performed on an outpatient basis.
The ultrasonic waves in the Vaser device are powerful enough to damage the sweat glands and stop underarm sweating completely. This procedure is performed quickly and efficiently, and there is no risk of damage to the surrounding tissues. The dead gland tissue can be removed with a scalpel and minimal incisions, and the area is stitched back up to heal shortly afterwards.
The Vaser treatment can stop sweating permanently, and once the sweat gland is removed from the underarm area, the individual will not be able to sweat normally from their armpits. The procedure is currently available at select cosmetic surgery, dermatology offices and medical spas around the country, and is an off-label procedure. This means that it has not been evaluated or been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The treatment is designed solely for patients who experience severe underarm sweating, and it could be an effective alternative to Botox treatments or topical prescription products.
Vaser technology has received a 95 percent approval rating from US physicians for the removal of body fat, because it can remove significant amounts of fat without harming the surrounding tissues, nerves and blood vessels. The ultrasound waves are powerful enough to break down the tissue and heat up the surrounding tissue to create a smooth, contoured appearance. Vaser technology has been proven effective for fat transfer procedures, removing lumps in the skin caused by steroid usage, and now, for treating excessive underarm sweating.
Posted by Medical Staff Writers on August 19, 2010
 Topical agents, diet and certain medicines presented at the American Academy of Dermatology’s Summer Academy Meeting 2010 in Chicago is showing promise for preventing UV-induced skin cancer. Most skin cancers are caused by overexposure to ultraviolet radiation, and dermatologists are now encouraging the public to be conscientious about the amount of sun they are exposed to, and taking extra steps to use broad-spectrum sunscreen on a regular basis.
Still, incidences of non-melanoma skin cancer continue to rise, and researchers are investigating the effects of certain foods, vitamins and medicines that may prevent skin cancer.
Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham shared the results of some of the latest research initiatives that showcase the benefits of medicine and diet in preventing UV-induced skin cancer. According to dermatologist Craig A. Elmets, MD, FAAD, professor and chair of the Department of Dermatology and Director of the Skin Diseases Research Center at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, “Based on the research conducted thus far, it appears that several different agents have the potential to be effective in providing enhanced sun protection and preventing non-melanoma skin cancers…while the way these agents work are different, we have seen encouraging results with both oral and topical agents, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), eflornithine and certain types of natural antioxidants.” (Source: Medical News Today)
Dr. Elmets explained that oral medication can be effective at preventing basal cell nevus syndrome, a genetic defect that triggers the development of basal cell carcinoma at a very early age. Other drugs can be injected into the skin to inhibit cancer cell formation. A number of antioxidants were also evaluated for their chemopreventive properties, and some were found to destroy free radicals and compounds in the body that damage the DNA. Several clinical studies suggest that polyphenols in grape seed extract and green tea can help to prevent the growth of certain types of skin tumors.
Posted by Medical Staff Writers on August 18, 2010
The International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS) is a global leader in plastic surgery and has recently published the results of its ISAPS Biennial Global Survey™ for the first time. The survey includes information about plastic surgeons and procedures in the top 25 countries and regions representing 75% of all procedures performed around the globe in 2009. This is the most reliable source of plastic surgery data and statistics, and provides several insights about the most popular surgical and non-surgical procedures around the globe.
According to the ISAPS survey, the top ten countries with the most surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures include the United States, China, Brazil, India, Mexico, Japan, South Korea, Germany, Turkey and Spain. The United States continues to dominate in this field, but many countries that are not always considered to be popular destinations for cosmetic procedures still made the top 25 list. Saudi Arabia, Venezuela, Portugal and Thailand are among the world’s top destinations for plastic and cosmetic surgery.
The ISAPS Global Survey also reveals that liposuction is among the most sought-after surgical procedures around the globe, followed by breast augmentation, blepharoplasty, rhinoplasty and abdominoplasty. Certain procedures were more popular in countries including Brazil, China, Mexico and Japan, and the number of non-surgical procedures performed by plastic surgeons around the globe is higher than the number of surgical procedures.
The top five, most sought-after non-surgical procedures include Botox and Dysport, hyaluronic acid injections, laser hair removal, autologous fat injections, and IPL treatments. Many of the non-surgical procedures can be performed on an outpatient basis, and there is little to no downtime involved.
The survey was conducted through a professional survey company, and results were compiled, tabulated and analyzed by an independent research firm in Columbus, Ohio. Representatives from National Societies provided the counts for over 75 percent of the 31,000 total estimated plastic surgeons participating in the survey.
Posted by Medical Staff Writers on August 17, 2010
 Many women find that wearing a bra is very constricting and can have difficulty finding a bra that fits them properly. Those who undergo plastic surgery to get breast implants or have their breast size reduced also find it challenging to find a bra that provides the support and comfort they need. Cosmetic surgeons have now developed an innovative breast lift procedure that may reduce the need for wearing a bra altogether.
The “breform” procedure works as an internal bra to support the breast tissue and keep it in place. This bra is placed under the skin layer of the breasts to act as an internal support system. It is made of a polyester material and is inserted right into the tissue without risk of breaking down. The internal bra is inserted into the tissue after a small incision is made around the areola. The cup is designed to cover the fat and tissue of the breasts completely, and then is sutured in place to create a smooth look.
The breform procedure works as a permanent bra, and can reduce the need to be completely dependent on wearing a real bra for support. The material used to create the bra in this procedure is safe to use as an implant and poses few hazards and side effects for the patient. It is a cosmetic procedure that can be performed on an outpatient basis. In most cases, the procedure can be performed under local anesthesia, but some surgeons may recommend general anesthesia depending on the size of the breast tissue and the health of the patient.
This innovative breast lift procedure is designed for women who have sagging breasts, but may not be effective for women with very large breasts. Women who are a C cup, D cup or larger may need to undergo breast reduction surgery before they are suitable candidates for the breform procedure.
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Under eye circles can be the result of genetics, poor sleep or an unhealthy diet, and there are a number of cosmetic surgery procedures that can help to lighten up the skin under the eyes and create a more refreshed, rejuvenated look. Still, some experts say that makeup can be just as effective for covering up under eye circles and may be a convenient alternative to cosmetic or plastic surgery.
