Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Saline or Silicone Gel?

Though silicone gel implants have been back on the market for awhile, the debate over which implant is the best option continues. Of course, the answer is one each woman needs to explore and answer for herself, based upon her own goals and concerns.

To make this choice a little easier for those considering breast augmentation, Savannah plastic surgeons at Coastal Empire Plastic Surgery explore some the pros and cons of each implant type on their website.

Some of the points they cover include:

*Incision size required for each option. (Saline generally require smaller incisions than silicone.)
*Patient safety if implant ruptures. (Saline can be absorbed naturally by the body while silicone cannot.)
*Availability to women of various ages. (Silicone are only available to women 22 or over.)
*Size adjustability. (The size of saline implants can be adjusted during surgery while silicone gel cannot.)
*Implant feel. (Silicone gel tends to feel more natural than saline.)
*Skin rippling around the breast. (Saline implants sometimes ripple, causing an unnatural look, while silicone gel do not.)

For more information about breast implant options, consult the American Society of Plastic Surgeons' website or webmd.com

Thursday, February 5, 2009

New Anti-Aging Cookbook!

Can you’re diet help keep you looking young? According to Phoenix plastic surgeon Dr. Heidi Regenass, antioxidants, vitamins and nutrients go a long way to keeping you looking and feeling young and beautiful. In fact, Dr. Regenass recently published the Dr. Heidi's Anti-Aging Cookbook, filled with delicious, nutritious recipes designed to keep you looking young and vibrant.

Though Dr. Regenass offers surgical techniques for turning back the clock, such as facelifts, eyelid lifts and brow lifts at her plastic surgery practice, she believes health and nutrition should be the first step anyone takes toward restoring that youthful look.

In her book, Dr. Regenass uses power foods, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, in easy to prepare recipes that prevent cell damage which can cause skin to look dull, damaged and wrinkled. Foods rich in anti-oxidants, such as blueberries, cranberries, artichokes, beans and other fresh vegetables.

Wednesday, January 14, 2009

Using Stem Cell Research To Grow Your Own Breasts

Some day soon it may be possible to grow your own breasts. Stem cell researchers are working on ways that fat and other tissue from your body can be made in a laboratory, and added to your breasts. Using fat tissue would create much more natural feeling breasts than the synthetic augmentation options.

According to an article in the Daily Mail, scientists in Japan have successfully implanted fat tissue in women's breasts, and the results have been fantastic. Fat cells were taken from other parts of their bodies, and grown in the laboratory. They were implanted with no problems, and the breasts feel totally natural.

The surgery will, hopefully, be available to everyone in the next five years. It should be noted, the procedure does not offer as much additional volume as saline or silicone implants. Enhancement of approximately a half cup-size is the average.

For the time being, scientists are still running tests and doing check-ups to make sure there are no problems.

For more information on available methods of breast enlargement, Houston plastic surgeon Dr. Bob Basu can answer your questions.

Friday, December 26, 2008

Breast Implant Placement Options

Decisions concerning breast implant placement is often left up to the plastic surgeon. But understanding the various placement options and how they may affect your results can be helpful when planning your breast augmentation and in choosing a plastic surgeon. The three basic breast implant placement options are subglandular, partial submuscular, and complete submuscular. All three place the implants behind the breast in various ways, and each has it's own advantages and disadvantages.

Subglandular (over the chest muscle): the least complicated placement option to perform, subglandular placement situates the implant between the breast tissue and the chest muscle, making finding a surgeon capable of performing the procedure quite easy. This method also offers less post-operative pain and a shorter recovery period than the other two options. Aesthetically, subglandular offers a rounder result, an effect some women seek and others find too "unnatural" for their taste. This method can also accommodate larger implants than other placement options, and can be used as a "quick fix" for mild drooping, postponing the need for more extensive breast lifting techniques. It should be noted, however, since there is no muscle or connective tissue support of the implants with this technique, this "quick fix" is only temporary, and drooping will most likely become more severe at some point after surgery.

Disadvantages of subglandular implant placement include more noticeable rippling and implant edges due to less tissue covering the implant. Capsular contracture (scaring around the implant causing hardening and implant distortion) is more common with subglandular placement, and "bottoming out", the downward migration of the implants, is somewhat common with this technique. Another important consideration is mammograms, which tend to be more difficult to perform when this method is used, with an estimated 40% increase in obstruction. Mammograms can be performed, however. But they require more images than traditional mammograms, an expense that may not be covered by insurance.

Partial submuscular (partially beneath the chest muscle): placing the top 2/3 of the implant under the chest muscle, this placement option offers what many consider a "more natural slope" than the over the muscle technique. It also hides rippling and implant edges better in the top portion of the implant than the subglandular placement option. Due to its partial placement beneath the muscle, it does involve more post-operative discomfort and a longer recovery period. Capsular contracture risk is decreased using this method, and mammograms are less hindered. But because the bottom portion of the implant is not supported by muscle fascia (connective tissue), "bottoming out" can still occur with partial submuscular placement.

Complete submuscular (completely beneath chest muscle and fascia): with this method, the top 2/3 of the implant is situated beneath the chest muscle while the lower 1/3 is supported by connective tissue, greatly reducing the risk of downward migration or "bottoming out". This technique offers a more natural, less round look then subglandular, as well as a reduced risk of capsular contracture and easier post-augmentation mammograms. Rippling and implant edges are much better concealed using this technique than the other two options. Complete submuscular placement does entail more post-operative discomfort than the other methods, and it is not performed by all plastic surgeons due to the skill it takes to master the technique. For women with widely spaced breasts, cleavage can be difficult to create using this placement option, and some women find their implants seem awkwardly high on their frame at first, until their chest muscle has had time to relax enough to properly accommodate the implants.

By evaluating your implant placement options and discussing them with your plastic surgeon, you can go into your surgery feeling better informed and create the breast enhancement results you seek. For more information about breast implant placement or breast augmentation, Tallahassee Plastic Surgery Clinic offers information and comprehensive consultations.

Sunday, December 7, 2008

Phoenix Plastic Surgeon Gives Back

Recently, Glendale plastic surgeon Dr. Heidi Regenass shared a bit of her business savvy with a group of Afghani businesswomen in a workshop she co-hosted for Project Artemis. Began in 2005, Project Artemis is a two-week business-skills training program conducted yearly by Glendale’s Thunderbird School of Global Management. Each year the program invites promising Afghani businesswomen to the U.S. for business training, workshops, and mentorship. Dr. Regenass, along with make-up artist and skincare expert Zethina spoke with the women about the importance of public relations, networking and partnership in the business environment.

Dr. Regenass and Zethina have formed a symbiotic business relationship, referring clients to one another and combining public relations efforts. Their businesses, which compliment each other well, serve women from throughout the area with skincare treatments, make-up advice and cosmetic surgery in Phoenix, AZ. The workshop, held in a spa, offered not only public relations advice, but a little pampering and camaraderie as well. The Afghani businesswomen were treated to manicures, massages and skincare treatments.

Participants in Project Artemis have worked and succeeded to open businesses, provide jobs and inspire other Afghani women in an extremely challenging business environment for women. Despite war and patriarchal resistance, their achievements include opening the first and only female-owed shop in a Bazar in Bamyan, providing micro-loans to Afghani businesswomen, teaching female handi-crafters to become economically self-sufficient, and offering employment to many who seek it.

Saturday, November 29, 2008

Breast Implants, Long-Lasting, but not Necessarily Permanent

While breast implants are meant to be permanent, they often require a lifetime of maintenance according to Beverly Hills breast enlargement surgeon Dr. Jay Orringer who says, “…breast implants could require replacement multiple times over the course of an individual’s life.” Issues such as capsular contracture, a hardening of scar tissue around the implant, or implant rupture or deflation are common reasons for replacement.

Some doctors, in fact, recommend replacement every 12-15 years. This lifetime maintenance commitment is one of the key issues women must consider before undergoing augmentation. Because breast enhancement is a cosmetic procedure, not covered by insurance, implant replacement, or revision surgery due to other complications must be paid for out of pocket as well.

Other considerations, according to Dr. Orringer, include implant interference with mammograms, which may be of particular concern for women with a family history of breast cancer and are of a higher cancer risk. This interference can be reduced some through implant placement, but not diminished all together. Another important issue to consider is a loss of sensation in the breast skin or nipples. Though sensation loss is rare, there is no way to predict which women will or will not experience it. And since sensation loss can be permanent, it must be factored into any potential breast augmentation patient’s decision making process.

Of course, not all breast implant replacement surgeries are due to complications. Some women simply decide to “upgrade” as better implants are introduced onto the market. Many women seek to replace their saline implants, for example, with silicone gel for silicone gel's realistic look and consistency. Other revision patients are unhappy with the size they originally chose, and seek an enlargement or reduction of implant size. Though doctors try, it is still difficult to show patients precisely how their implants will look and feel on their frame after surgery. Tools such as implant sizers and computer imaging help, but mistakes in implant sizing choice are still common.

Newport Beach plastic surgeon Dr. Ambe performs numerous revisions at his practice. Recently seen on The Real Housewives of Orange County, Dr. Ambe helped reality star Tamra Barney feel more comfortable with her body proportion by replacing her implants, which she describes as “way too large for my frame” with smaller ones. Dr. Ambe replaced the implants in conjunction with breast lift surgery, a decision Ms. Barney is very pleased with.

Both Dr. Orringer and Dr. Ambe consider pre-op consultation as key for successful cosmetic surgery. According to Dr. Orringer, “that taking sufficient time to discuss, plan, individualize and perform your procedure is time well spent.”

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

Micro Breast Implants-- The Future of Breast Augmentation?

Vanderbilt surgeon Dr. William Brennan has invented a "micro" breast implant that he believes will revolutionize breast augmentation surgery.

Micro implant augmentation would use hundreds of pea-sized implants rather than one large one. This would allow for much smaller incisions (5mm vs. 2 or more inches), less pain and a more natural look than enhancements with traditional breast implants. These silicone micro implants are designed to compress together inside the breast to form a natural, enhanced look according to Dr. Brennan.

Micro implant augmentation also offers an additional potential advantage. It allows the option of changing enhancement size after surgery simply by adding or removing the tiny implants in and easy office visit.

Dr. Brennan began working on his revolutionary micro breast implants in 2002 and is set to begin testing for FDA approval.

Today, approximately 350,000 women in the US undergo breast augmentation each year. For more information on current methods of South Hills breast augmentation, contact Dr. Heil at Premier Plastic Surgery.

Sunday, September 21, 2008

High Satisfaction Rate in Breast Reconstruction

According to a recent study, 98% of women who have an elective mastectomy followed by breast reconstruction are happy with their decision and would choose to do it again. The study looked at 74 women who had preventative mastectomies with breast reconstruction between 2000 and 2005. Some of the women studied had breast cancer in one breast and elected to remove the other for preventative measures, while others chose preventative mastectomy of both breasts.

The study shows the results were extremely favorable. 100% of the women who had a preventative bilateral mastectomy (both breasts) were pleased and would opt for the surgeries again. 96% of those who had elective unilateral mastectomies said the same.

Elective, or prophylactic mastectomy combined with breast reconstruction offers women at high risk of breast cancer a chance to take control of both their health and appearance. For more information about breast cancer prevention, contact the American Cancer Society. If you are exploring your options for breast reconstruction, The Woodlands, Texas plastic surgeon Dr. Kim can answer your questions.

Thursday, August 28, 2008

Breast Augmentation Abroad

Thinking of getting your breast augmentation abroad? Make sure you do your research and understand your risks first.

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons warns against the "price-driven phenomenon" of cosmetic surgery tourism. Though it's true, countries all over the world offer top-notch plastic surgeons, determining the credentials of overseas surgeons can be tricky. With the onslaught of plastic surgery "package deals" littering the internet, it's tempting to trust the "highly trained" and "credentialed" surgeons advertised in their ads, especially with the bargain prices offered. But plastic surgery is not a vacation activity; it's real surgery. Choosing a surgeon and surgical facility should require more research than booking one's next holiday get-away.

Check Out the Surgeon

Before going through with surgery, check the surgeon's credentials. The International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery offers a surgeon finders tool on their website that can help. It can be difficult determining what various credentials and certifications mean, but it pays to do the research and find out. And remember, the initial surgical consultation should be part of the evaluation process. Many cosmetic tourists meet their surgeons for the first time on the day of the procedure. It pays to spend the extra money to meet and consult with a surgeon before you decide, and some packages do offer separate trips for this purpose.

Bargain Surgery

Overseas or in the U.S., never choose a plastic surgeon based solely on price. Complications and revision surgery can ultimately cost much more than the original procedure performed by a more expensive surgeon with greater skills and credentials.


Follow-up Care

Many cosmetic tourism packages provide very limited follow-up care. And according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, "patients who have traveled outside the United States for cosmetic surgery and experience a complication may find it hard to locate a qualified plastic surgeon to treat the problem or to provide revision surgeries. Local doctors may not know what surgical techniques the physician used in the initial operation, making treatment difficult or nearly impossible." Making a plan for follow-up care is essential.

Vacation Activities

Before being lured by the sunbathing, sight seeing and pool-side margaritas offered by cosmetic tourist packages, understand that these activities can slow down the healing process and can lead to infection and other complications. Any agency that plays up the "resort" or "vacation" aspect of their plan should be viewed with skepticism. Often these bells and whistles distract a patient's focus from where it should be, on choosing competent surgeon and safe surgical facility for their procedure.

If you're considering domestic breast enhancement, Phoenix plastic surgeon Dr. Heidi Regenass will be glad to consult with you here at home.

Monday, August 25, 2008

Breast Augmentations Bakersfield by Dr. Marc Lussier

In Bakersfield, California, Dr. Marc Lussier performs breast augmentation procedures at the Town Center Surgery office. He is a board certified surgeon licensed to perform a variety of cosmetic breast surgeries. His staff is certified in their areas, offering you a quality of care you can trust.

Bakersfield breast augmentation with Dr. Lussier:
* Dr. Lussier is Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Surgery in Plastic and General Surgery
* Town Center Surgery offers breast augmentations, lifts, reductions and asymmetry corrections
* Specially trained staff includes a registered nurse, a certified scrub technician and a certified nurse anesthetist
* Four considerations for augmentation patients
1. Implant type (saline/new generation silicone)
2. Surgical approach (under arm, around areola, under breast, through belly button)
3. Implant placement (above or below pectoralis muscle)
4. Implant size (large/small enhancement by cc)

Dr. Lussier is dedicated to serving the needs of all of his patients, regardless of the type of procedure they require. If you're interested in Bakersfield breast augmentations, Dr. Lussier may be the surgeon for you.