The new spectrum of facial rejuvenation

• Injectable fillers. Juvederm and similar products are able to add volume to the face, remedying sunken features and deep folds.
• Botox. This classic alternative to surgery works by relaxing certain muscles while allowing others to stretch, reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
• Laser therapies. From tightening sagging skin and destroying fatty deposits to removing hair and unwanted blemishes, lasers have become increasingly important tools for plastic surgeons across the country.

Other procedures that are starting to make waves include injections of stem cells or fat into the face. These injections, which can target the lips, nasolabial folds, hollows of the eyes, or the jaw line, can create a more youthful appearance in many patients. However, further research is needed to determine the longer-term effects of stem cell injections, which aren’t harmful but are scientifically unproven, according to a spokesman for the American Society of Plastic Surgery.

In the coming decade, cosmetic patients can look forward to further developments in youth-enhancing technologies, as dozens of devices are currently in development, testing, or awaiting approval from the FDA. According to Dr. Leslie Baumann, a cosmetic dermatologist, it’s important for patients to do some research and find qualified practitioners with extensive experience in facial rejuvenation techniques. “It’s an art, so you have to find a doctor that is an artist,” Baumann told the Herald. “When you see someone with big lips or big cheeks, ask who their doctor is — and then don’t go to that doctor.”

According to BAAPS president Fazel Fatah, who recently spoke out in an interview with the Independent, the plastic surgery industry has been marred by a rogue attitude:

“We have warned against the unrealistic expectations set by reality ‘makeover’ shows and against crass competition prizes promising ‘mummy makeovers’ and body overhauls. In no other area of surgery would one encounter two-for-one offers. The pendulum has swung too far.”

The association has proposed a six-point plan to counter these rogue practices:

1. Ban all advertising for cosmetic procedures. Prescription medications in the UK may not be advertised and Fatah argues that this should also apply to cosmetic medical procedures.
2. Establish an implant registry to track all types of silicone implants.
3. Reclassify dermal fillers as medicines and limit their usage. While only about a dozen fillers are approved in the United States by the FDA, British authorities have approved over 100 different types of fillers.
4. Compulsory registration of practitioners in all aspects of aesthetic medicine and lasers.
5. Mandatory annual safety audits.
6. Revalidation and mystery shopping.

These proposed measures have met with significant support, although some groups are calling for a more measured response. The Independent Healthcare Advisory Service, an industry body, says that it opposes a wholesale ban on advertising, arguing instead for responsible and ethical advertising.

1. Post-surgical healing foods. Nutrients such as vitamin C, protein, and zinc are excellent promoters of wound healing, according to Lippincott’s Nursing Center. You can enhance your natural healing process by eating citrus fruits, green vegetables, meats, and milk products, or through multivitamins and nutritional supplements.

2. No strenuous activity. Rest and relaxation are essential for your recovery. No exercise for at least three weeks, and no heavy lifting. Driving should be avoided for the first week, or at least until you can make an emergency stop without discomfort.

3. Proper wound care. Moisture can aggravate the incision site and slow the healing process, so avoid getting your wounds wet for one week after the surgery. Don’t sleep on your stomach. If necessary, prop yourself up with pillows to remain comfortable.

4. Be on the lookout for complications. Alert your GP or plastic surgeon immediately if you experience unexpected symptoms. These include severe pain; intense burning sensations; unusual, unexpected or excessive swelling; deflated breast; a smelly or coloured discharge from your wounds; a high fever; or lumps or aching.

5. Sports bras are your friend. Too much movement can cause bruising and discomfort in the weeks following your breast augmentation. Many plastic surgeons recommend that their patients wear tight-fitting sports bras to minimize potentially harmful movement.

6. The art of deception. There are some tricks you can use if there are people you’d prefer not to tell that you’ve had breast augmentation. People will recognize that your appearance has changed, but you can deceive and misdirect them by dying your hair, changing your hairstyle, or using different makeup. Different fashion choices can also draw them off the scent.

Be sure to ask your plastic surgeon about these and other tips that can help you during your recovery period.

It’s true. Botox use among men of all kinds is on the rise. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, over 336,000 men received Botox injections last year. That’s more than two and a half times the number performed in 2000! The rugged face of modern male Botox, which extends far beyond the Hollywood elites and East Coast metrosexuals, was discussed in a recent feature on Good Morning America.

Male Botox Users on Good Morning America

• Marc, a Detroit industrial worker who repairs cars in his spare time, received a Botox session as a Christmas present from his wife. He’s targeted his frown lines and crow’s feet and loves the results, although he admits his brother thinks the whole thing is a little odd.
• Julio Mendez also received a Botox voucher for Christmas. He can’t wait to get rid of the lines on his forehead.
• 29-year-old actor Johnny Markoudakis likes the fact that he looks less stressed and more laid-back.
• Jason Grange, a 41-year-old real estate analyst, says that he’s been “hooked” on the procedure.

All across America, plastic surgeons have seen more and more men pursuing Botox, facial fillers, and other minimally invasive procedures. In the 21st century, it’s become more socially acceptable for men to care about their appearance. Botox, Perlane, Restylane, and Juvederm have been deployed to target wrinkles, crow’s feet, laugh lines, and sagging features.

Traditionally the product of women, Botox has become another tool in the male arsenal. According to plastic surgeon Anthony Griffin, who was interviewed by the Daily Mail, “it’s still a competition in our society for looks and, you know, better-looking men get paid more, and they get prettier girls.”

Brian once weighed 420 pounds, but dropped to a slim 180 after a bariatric surgery six years ago. However, with a new body came new problems, as Brian found deep folds on his torso, legs, neck, and face. While he had always expected to undergo body contouring surgery in order to correct the excess skin on his body, Brian found himself among the small group of post-bariatric patients who require facial rejuvenation.

Body lifts and tummy tucks are often needed in the aftermath of bariatric surgery in order to address the extra skin that remains after massive weight loss. The face typically adapts better than the body, but in some cases, formerly overweight people can experience:

• heavy bags under the eyes
• slack jaws
• numerous wrinkles
• sagging cheeks
• itching and inflammation in the folds

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, nearly 53,000 body contouring operations were performed after patient weight loss in 2010. This is more than a quarter of the 200,000 people who annually undergo bariatric surgery, according to figures released by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery.

Brian’s battle with the aftermath of morbid obesity continues as his face and neck folds interfere with his speech and personal hygiene. According to his doctor, the downward pull of Brian’s muscles makes it difficult for him to talk without drooling. He must carry a handkerchief at all times and soaks the bedding unless he sleeps a certain way.

Brian is fighting for his insurance company to pay for facelift surgery, which Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Illinois has declared as cosmetic. But for Brian the surgery is necessary, as the ability to speak properly is at the center of his livelihood.

Two sisters, who note that they usually give clothing or personal items for presents, may be exchanging different items this year. Sister Tina’s #1 wish for a gift? Botox.

Though her sister feels she may not need the injectable, Tina is sure about her request for a plastic surgery gift. She says she began getting Botox treatments after a recent break-up and continues to see improvement in the appearance of crow’s feet.

While the 2011 Christmas season may see an uptick in the number of plastic surgery gifts, it’s nothing new for many consumers. In 2010 alone, patients spent more than $10 billion on cosmetic surgeries and treatments.

With the continued acceptance of injection treatments like Botox and Juvederm it may be increasingly common for people to give plastic surgery gifts, which one woman called “injectable youth.”

Though non-surgical options are the most cost-effective way of giving plastic surgery gifts this year, some gift givers may choose to help out with cosmetic surgeries, too. Popular procedures include facial rejuvenation, body contouring and breast surgeries.

To learn more about plastic surgery gifts and specials on Botox in Munster, please email plastic surgeon Dr. Robinson.

The plastic surgery film, which is titled About Face, focuses on the importance of youth in today’s society and specifically discusses plastic surgery in the modeling industry and Hollywood.

In the first clip for the plastic surgery film, which is to be released on HBO this summer, several noted models and actresses talk briefly about their views on plastic surgery and aging, both good and bad.

American model Carmen Dell’Orifice seems to have a “why not?” perspective on plastic surgery.

“If you had the ceiling falling down in your living room, would you not go and have a repair,” Dell’Orifice asks in the plastic surgery film.

On the other hand, Italian actress and model Isabella Rossellini may have not chosen plastic surgery as Dell’Orifice has as she ages, but she has seen how growing older in Hollywood has changed her life.

Rossellini shares in the plastic surgery film that while her daughter receives invites to Hollywood A-list parties, she herself no longer does. While Rossellini may feel somewhat shunned by young Hollywood, she is still able to laugh about aging in About Face, adding, “As you grow old, you don’t count any more!”

Other actresses and models are profiled in the plastic surgery film and give their wide-ranging views on getting older and trying to stay youthful and healthy in today’s society. The clip is available on YouTube.

To find out more about plastic surgery in Munster, please email plastic surgeon Dr. Robinson.

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Though Fonda said in the past she had no desire to get plastic surgery, she recently decided to undergo facial rejuvenation. Known for her physical health and activism, Fonda says she wanted to look as vibrant as she feels in her early 70s. After seeing a reflection of herself in a store window, Fonda settled on cosmetic improvements.

Fonda admitted on TODAY that she underwent plastic surgery on her lower eyelids, chin and neck.

Patients often choose eyelid surgery to remove small pockets of fat under the eyes, which can give the appearance of advanced age and tiredness.

Procedures of the lower face and neck, like a neck lift, work to smooth the skin and minimize the appearance of bands on the neck. Like fat beneath the eyes, these neck bands and deep lines can make a patient appear older.

Although Fonda visited TODAY to speak about her new fitness DVDs for seniors and the topic of aging and health took center stage.

While she believes exercise is “the number one ingredient for successful aging,” Fonda also shared that her choice to have plastic surgery on her face bought herself some time.

Her dedication to fitness throughout her life has helped her to feel great and rested, she said, and now the face Fonda presents to the public better reflects that.

To learn more about plastic surgery, even later in life, email Munster plastic surgeon Dr. Robinson.

Chemical peels have become one of the most requested treatments in cosmetic procedures, as they are both effective and affordable. Learn whether the benefits of chemical peels are right for you.

Cosmetic Procedure Choices: Chemical Peels or Fillers?

According to Modern Medicine’s Dr. Ilya Petrou, fillers are great for treating specific wrinkles, but not for patients who have extensive wrinkling all over their face. It’s simply too expensive. Another benefit of chemical peels: the outcome is similar—sometimes better—than the more invasive technologies. And the best part: chemical peels tend to have a lower risk of complications than competing surgeries and treatments.

Do Doctors Still Perform Chemical Peels?

Yes, they do! Even with all the latest cutting-edge technologies, chemical peels are still one of the most popular treatments in cosmetic medicine. Followed only by botulinum toxin and filler procedures.

Chemicals Peels and Popular Culture

Maybe Samantha Jones on Sex and The City paved the way for chemical peels with her unforgettable unveiling (literally!) of her ‘fresh’ treatment at Carrie’s book party.

JUST REMEMBER: If you are going to get this fabulous treatment, stay indoors for a couple days. Maybe you can even cozy-up on the couch with some goodies good flicks.

Learn the latest about the benefits of chemical peels in Indiana.

The new hyaluronic acid dermal filler, which is called Belotero Balance, has been approved to treat moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds. This includes nasolabial folds, the lines that run from your nose to the edges of your mouth.

Belotero Balance joins Merz Aesthetics family of non-surgical injectables, including Radiesse. Radiesse is a popular filler comprised of calcium-based microspheres in a water gel that works to restore lost volume in the face. Though its uses are similar to Belotero Balance, the new hyaluronic acid dermal filler works differently.

Like similar hyaluronic acid dermal fillers, Restylane and Juvederm, Belotero Balance works to restore lost volume to your skin by increasing its hydration. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring hydrating component in your skin and these dermal fillers work to mimic it. When injected into the skin beneath the site of a wrinkle, a hyaluronic acid dermal filler provides a sort of scaffolding for depressed areas of skin, supporting them and improving the appearance of youth on the face.

To test the effectiveness of Belotero Balance, it was compared in a split-face study with a collagen-based filler. Using a scale that rates wrinkle severity, Belotero Balance was shown to provide a greater reduction in the appearance of nasolabial folds over 24 weeks. In fact, at the six-month mark, Belotero Balance still showed a greater correction of the wrinkles than its counterpart.

To learn more about your hyaluronic acid dermal filler options in Munster, please email plastic surgeon Dr. Robinson.