Chemical Peeling: Details You Need to Know

Chemical Peeling: Details You Need to Know, By Barbie's Beauty Bits

So you have a skincare routine, but you want to up your skincare game to something a bit more aggressive. It can be rather challenging to decide what you can do to help you keep your youthful appearance and beauty.

But no worries, as new technology has made it easier than ever to maintain a youthful complexion. Many treatments and products are now available to help reduce wrinkles, fine lines, and other signs of aging skin.

One safe and effective way to rejuvenate your skin is chemical peeling. This popular cosmetic procedure can transform your skin by removing dead skin cells and stimulating the growth of new, healthy skin.

Peels are usually offered with customized formulations to address your skincare concerns, containing several different acids, each penetrating the skin differently.

This article will spill the beans on chemical peels so you can make an informed decision about this exciting cosmetic procedure!

Youthful Skin Is Just A Peel Away

What Are Chemical Peels
A chemical peel, also known as chemexfoliation or derma peeling, is a topical treatment that uses varying-strengths acids, such as glycolic and salicylic acids. These chemical solutions are used to reduce wrinkles, dark spots, sun damage, acne scars, and other signs of aging.

Chemical peels remove the outer layer of skin (epidermis), revealing new, healthier-looking skin underneath. It is often smoother, firmer, and more evenly toned than the old skin. It may take several treatments for the desired results to be achieved.

Benefits Of Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are a standard method of treating skin disorders, and the most common targets for a chemical peel are your face, neck, or hands. Several benefits include: 

• Enhanced skin tone and texture
• Reduced appearance of fine lines on your face
• Diminished acne problems
• Minimize the appearance of your pores
• Enhance cellular turnover
• Prevents sun damage and age spots
• Strengthen skin elasticity by stimulating blood flow
• Improve the penetration of skincare products

Are Chemical Peels Suitable For All Skin Types
As a general rule, superficial peels are safe for all skin types. There is a higher chance of post-treatment skin darkening for people with darker skin tones, also known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

It is recommended to consult a doctor for advice on other, less extreme methods of preventing hyperpigmentation if your skin is darker than average.

Chemical peeling may not be the best option for you if any of the following apply:

• Have a history of unusual skin scarring.
• Have more coloring on your scars.
• Have skin disorders or medications that make your skin more sensitive.
• Unable to avoid sun exposure during the recovery phase.

How Are Chemical Peel Procedures Performed
A chemical peel is a noninvasive treatment that can be performed at a spa, clinic, or surgical center. The process starts by applying an ingredient capable of removing excess oils from the skin, which is thn covered to protect your eyes and hair.

The next step involves applying a chemical solution to your skin. The chemical solution may contain glycolic acid, trichloroacetic acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid, or carbolic acid (phenol). Exposure to various types of chemicals results in controlled damage. Each type of chemical permeates the skin to a different depth. This causes the skin to peel away and expose a new layer.

The various chemical solutions each produce distinctively different outcomes. Your desired result should guide your choice of chemical. The depth of the peel will be determined through collaboration between you and the one performing the treatment. See the types below.

Different Types Of Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are classified according to their depth of penetration, which affects the intensity of the peel and its results.

Three general chemical peel options exist superficial, medium, and deep.

Light Chemical Peels:
This procedure peels off the top layer of the skin. Those who want to avoid the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, acne, discoloration, or dry, rough skin caused by sun damage may benefit most from this option. There may be minimal downtime associated with this light peel, and recovery can take a few hours to a few days.

Medium Peels:
A medium chemical peel is ideal for maintaining your skin's smooth, healthy appearance. This procedure removes the top layer and a bit of the middle layer of skin. This option may be suitable if your skin has moderately uneven pigmentation, age spots, acne scarring, or acceptable to moderate wrinkles. You may need a week or more to recover from this peel.

Deep Peels:
Deep chemical peels are the most noticeable results. This substance can reach the dermal fatty layer of your skin. This option may suit those with fine to moderate lines and wrinkles, substantial sun damage, deep acne scars, blotchy skin, or actinic keratosis. It takes more time to heal from a deep peel.

The pretreatment for a deep chemical peel may require up to eight weeks, and your doctor will provide detailed instructions. This one-time application requires an extensive recovery period, especially when performed on the face.

What Are The Possible Side Effects Of Chemical Peels
Chemical peels can cause redness, dryness, stinging or burning, and mild swelling, but these effects are typically short-lived. No Samatha's from Sex In The City anymore! However, there are more severe and potentially irreversible adverse effects associated with chemical peels, including:

• Skin darkening or lightening is more common in people with darker skin color.
• Scarring can be permanent.
• Infections include bacterial or fungal infections in rare cases and flare-ups of the herpes simplex virus.
• Deep peels containing phenol damage to the heart, liver, or kidneys can occur, leading to irregular heartbeats and liver, kidney, and heart muscle damage.

Final Thoughts
You must perform your own due diligence. There are many things to consider when wanting to have a cosmetic procedure.

1. Reading online reviews is the best place to start when looking for a cosmetic procedure.
2. Talking to friends who have had the procedure can also be helpful.
3. Looking at the cosmetic brand's social media can provide additional insight.
4. Lastly, looking at unedited photos of before and after results can help you make an informed decision.

After choosing a reputable board-certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist, the first step is to schedule a pre-procedure consultation.

Discuss the peel options, expectations, and recovery times during your consultation. Respect their recommendation based on your skin's condition and treatment goals.

In addition, your health history and medications will be reviewed to ensure you are a suitable candidate for the procedure. Be honest; even the simplest things, like cold sores, can cause risks.

Finally, your doctor may advise you to stop taking certain drugs before getting a chemical peel and prepare your skin using Retin-A, or glycolic acid-your appearance depends on it.

4 Different Types Of Liposuction Available Today

Learn More About The Different Types Of Liposuction Procedures With This Liposuction Guide

Many people work hard with diet and exercise to achieve their aesthetic goals. But between aging, genetics, pregnancy, and other factors, some parts of the body still may have more fat than we like. That’s where liposuction can make a dramatic difference when it comes to fat loss.

However, with all of the different types of liposuction and tons of liposuction reviews, understanding the benefits of liposuction can be overwhelming. So, I got with Dr. Aric Aghayan from Portland, Oregon, to see if he could discuss the four different types of liposuction available today. Let's see what he had to say!

Which Type Of Liposuction Is Best For You?
With this popular procedure, your plastic surgeon can sculpt your abdomen, love handles, hips, rear, or thighs to give you the body contours you’ve dreamed of. There are many different types of liposuction for fat loss available today, ranging from Traditional Liposuction to Tumescent to Ultra-sound liposuction and Laser Assisted, we have you covered with this liposuction guide!

#1 Standard Liposuction
This is the oldest type of liposuction. First, the surgeon makes small incisions in the area that needs treatment. Then, a cannula is inserted to remove the fat cells.

This type of liposuction can be used on the abdomen, thighs, legs, back, arms and rear. However, it’s not the best choice for small areas, such as under the chin, because it isn’t precise enough.

The primary reason this type of procedure is used today is it’s the least expensive option. It also has been used for years and has been proven to be safe and effective.

However, traditional liposuction causes more swelling and bruising. Also, it’s the least precise type of lipo, so there is a higher number of people with dimpling and lumpiness. You may even need several treatments to get the desired result. 

#2 Tumescent Liposuction
This has been the "gold standard" for liposuction for the last 20 years or so. Your surgeon makes small incisions in the target area, then injects lidocaine and epinephrine to swell the fat and make it easier to remove. The lidocaine and epinephrine also reduce bleeding and swelling, which makes a recovery easier.

Next, your plastic surgeon inserts a small cannula through the incisions and removes the desired fat cells. About four or five pounds of fat and liquid can be removed in one session.

Tumescent liposuction works well on most body parts, and the swelling and bruising usually fade in about a month. But it can take at least three months before you see the final results.

The most significant advantage of tumescent liposuction is it minimizes bruising, swelling, and bleeding. It also is one of the less expensive liposuction procedures.

#3 Ultrasound Liposuction
Ultrasound technology has been used for 40 years, but cosmetics surgeons now use it for liposuction with good results.

Ultrasound-assisted liposuction uses sound waves to dissolve fat cells, making them easier to remove with a cannula.

This form of lipo is often used in body areas with denser fat, such as the male’s chest, on the back, and the hips. Recovery is the same as tumescent liposuction, but some patients may have minor burns or blisters.

Ultrasound liposuction is a good choice for those who want to remove a large amount of fat or need to remove tougher fat from the chin, male breasts, or back. 

#4 Laser-Assisted Liposuction
This type of lipo is similar to ultrasound, but it uses a laser to liquefy fat. Your surgeon will insert a laser probe with the cannula, which breaks down the fat into oil. Any fat that isn’t removed is eventually absorbed by the body, making this a highly efficient procedure.

This type of liposuction uses a tiny cannula, so it’s the most precise option. It also requires small incisions that don’t leave scars.

Laser-assisted liposuction is an excellent choice to fine-tune areas of the body, such as the abdominal muscles. It even can be used to remove small amounts of fat from the face. Some surgeons use this procedure to tighten the skin, as well.

This type of lipo does involve a longer recovery, and patients occasionally get burns from the laser. 

Is Liposuction For Me?
Men and women undergo liposuction every day to achieve their aesthetic goals. For example, some may want to look better with their shirts off, while others want to look more attractive in a bathing suit. And some desire that their stylish clothes fit more comfortably.

If any of the following apply to your situation, talk to your plastic surgeon about liposuction today:

• You have extra fat in certain areas that don’t respond to diet and exercise, such as the abdomen, sides, chin, neck, rear, or thighs.
• You believe that some parts of your body are out of proportion with the rest.
• Your skin elasticity is good, and you don’t have issues with loose or sagging skin.
• You’re close to your ideal body weight.
  

However, if you have loose skin in some treatment areas, liposuction will only accentuate the problem. Therefore, you may need a tummy tuck as well as liposuction for ideal results.

Also, remember that liposuction isn’t for losing weight. This procedure can enhance your contours and make you look slimmer, but it is not meant for weight loss. You should be near your ideal weight before considering this procedure. 

More About Apres Plastic Surgery
Dr. Aric Aghayan is a board-certified plastic surgeon who is pleased to serve his patients in the Portland, Oregon, metropolitan area at his practice, Apres Plastic Surgery.

Dr. Agahyan earned his medical education at the University of Missouri, followed by an eight-year plastic surgery and general surgery residency at Oregon Health & Science University. His years of training and experience help Dr. Agahyan blend art and science for the best results in his patients.

To learn more about Dr. Aghayan, please visit Dr. Aric Of Apres Plastic Surgery today.

References
The Downside Of Liposuction

Types Of Liposuction

Liposuction Overview

10 Most Popular Questions About Breast Implants

10 Most Popular Questions About Breast Implants, Answered By Dr. Raj Plastic Surgeon In Dallas, Texas

For more than 10 years, breast augmentation has been one of America’s most popular plastic surgery procedures. Many women want to increase their size while enhancing the appearance of their breasts as they age, and breast implants offer a safe and effective way to improve their shape.

Before you have breast implants, you may have some questions about the procedure. Below are 10 of the most popular questions about breast augmentation.

No. 1: What Should I Know Before Getting Breast Implants?
Answer: First, keep in mind that breast augmentation is major surgery, and you will need time to recover. Most patients have a full recovery in about a month, but much depends on you.

No. 2: Saline And Silicone...Which Type Of Breast Implant Feels The Most Natural?
Answer: From saline implants to silicone, breast implants have improved in recent years, but most plastic surgeons still say that ‘gummy bear’ silicone implants feel the most like natural breasts.

No. 3:  Will My Breast Implants Need To Be Replaced At Some Point?
Answer: Yes. Modern breast implants can last a long time, but most need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years. It would be best to have annual checkups to see how your existing breast implants are holding up.

No. 4: Will I Need To Have Additional Breast Surgery In The Future?
Answer: Some women’s implants may last for life, but surgeons say you shouldn’t expect this. You will likely need additional breast surgery later in life to replace your implants.

No. 5: Will I Be Able To Breastfeed After Having Implants?
Answer: Yes, most women can breastfeed after having breast implant surgery. However, during your breast augmentation consultation, you should talk to your surgeon about this because it will influence where they make their incisions.

No. 6: Will the Implants Make Mammograms Less Accurate In Detecting Breast Cancer?
Answer: Yes, breast implants make mammograms more difficult to read. But, the good news is an MRI or sonogram can be used to check for breast cancer in patients with breast implants.

No.7: How Long Should I Take Off From Work?
Answer: Breast augmentation is major surgery, so you should plan to take at least a week off work. If you work from home, you may be able to take only a day or two off, though.

No. 8: What Implants Look The Most Natural?
Answer: Surgeons have different opinions, but many say implant placement under the muscle using silicone implants often looks like natural breasts. Choosing an implant size in proportion to your body also matters for more natural-looking breast size.

No. 9: What Happens If You Don't Replace Your Breast Implants?
Answer: If you don’t replace your implants eventually, the risks of breast complications rise. One of the most common issues is capsular contracture, where the scar tissue around the implant contracts and damages it.

No. 10: What Type of Breast Implants Last The Longest?
Answer: Whichever type of implant you choose, it’s like that it will need to be replaced eventually. With the chance of implant rupture increasing by one percent each year, the older your implants are, the greater your risk of rupture or other complications. Most implants need to be replaced after 10-15 years, but some may last more than 20.

Breast implant surgery is a popular and safe procedure. However, if you keep the information above in mind, you’ll go into your procedure with as much information as possible.

About Dallas Plastic Surgeon Raja Mohan, MD
Dr. Raja Mohan is a highly skilled, board-certified plastic surgeon with years of training in reconstructive and aesthetic surgeries of the face and body. Dr. Raj is one of the few cosmetic surgeons in the Fort Worth and Dallas area with this kind of experience in aesthetic plastic surgery.

Dr. Raj also offers patients cutting-edge, non-invasive procedures with dermal fillers in liquid rhinoplasty, chemical peels, and laser skin resurfacing.

He completed his undergraduate degree in mathematics from MIT and became interested in plastic surgery. Dr. Raj earned his medical degree at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine.

To learn more about Dr. Raj Plastic Surgery in Dallas, visit him online.

References:

What To Consider Before You Get Breast Augmentation. (2018).

Things To Consider Before Getting Breast Implants. (n.d.).

Will Your Breast Implants Last A Lifetime? (n.d.)

 

Body Contouring - How To Get The Figure You Want

Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Stark shares with award-winning beauty blogger, Barbie's Beauty Bits on Nonsurgical Body Contouring Treatments To Help You Get The Figure You Want.

You may have worked hard with diet and exercise for months even years to get the body you want. Perhaps you have spent hours on a treadmill or Peleton to get rid of fat and give you the body of your dreams.

But despite all that work, you still have excess fat on your belly, sides, or under your chin. This is where body contouring can help you take the final steps to get rid of those stubborn pockets of fat and give you the svelte shape you have dreamed of. 

There are several ways to contour your body that is minimally invasive and without surgery that may give you ideal results. Lets see what Double-board-certified Philadelphia Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Stark is sharing with Barbie's Beauty Bits on how to get the body you want with body contouring.

Top Nonsurgical Body Contouring Treatments

Laser Lipolysis For Body Sculpting
This is known as SculpSure, and it uses laser energy to heat and destroy fat cells. The high temperatures created by the device cause the fat cells to overheat and die. Your lymphatic system will flush out the fat cells out after about 12 weeks.

The most popular areas of the body are the flanks (love handles) and abdomen. Each SculpSure treatment takes about 25 minutes, and there is no recovery time. You will usually need three or four treatments for the best results.

Radiofrequency Lipolysis For Non-Surgical Fat Reduction
This is a nonsurgical body contouring procedure that features ultrasound technology to contour your body. The advantage of this technique is it’s gentle to your skin as it treats fat pockets. Patients report that the treatment is effective and causes no discomfort.

It’s used most often on the flanks and abdomen, with each treatment taking about one hour. Most patients can go back to their activities the same day. Several treatments within those treatment areas are required to get the body shape you desire.

Injection Lipolysis For Effective Reduction Of Chin Fat
This technique uses the FDA-approved Kybella injectable treatment to treat fat tissue under the chin, also called a double chin. Kybella uses a form of deoxycholic acid that helps the body to absorb fat. When used in the chin, it reduces fat by killing undesirable fat cells.

Your body will metabolize the dead fat cells for several weeks after the treatment. Kybella is usually used under the chin only to treat a double chin.

The treatment takes about 30 minutes, and there is some bruising and swelling afterward. But you should be able to return to daily activities the same day. 

Body Contouring Compared To Liposuction
Tumescent liposuction is an effective way to remove undesirable fat pockets from the body. The surgeon places a cannula under the skin that injects lidocaine and epinephrine to reduce swelling and bleeding.

Next, fat is suctioned out with the cannula to give your body the contours you desire. However, liposuction is surgery, and there are risks, including:

• Infection
• Anesthesia risks
• Damage to organs
• Fluid accumulation
• Deep vein thrombosis
• Pulmonary and cardiac complications
  

The advantage of nonsurgical body contouring is fewer risks because it isn’t surgery and doesn’t require anesthesia. Also, non-surgical body contouring is usually less expensive than surgical procedures as liposuction.

The other factor is liposuction requires recovery and downtime. You also will need to wear a compression garment for several weeks after surgery.

Are You A Good Candidate For Body Contouring?
Body contouring is nonsurgical, so many people are good candidates for these procedures. Ideal candidates include:

• People who are close to their ideal weight. Remember that body contouring, like liposuction, isn’t a way to lose weight. It does get rid of fat cells, but body contouring is designed to fine-tune your shape, not eliminate many pounds of fat. The best body contouring patient is within 10 or 20 pounds of their ideal body weight. If you are above that weight, you should probably work with your doctor to slim down first.
• Those with realistic expectations. As with any cosmetic procedure, you should go into it with realistic expectations. If you have reasonable goals, you should be pleased with your body contouring results.
• People who want to firm up sagging skin. Some body contouring can tighten up the skin as well as eliminate fat pockets.
  

Body contouring can be an ideal way to help get the figure you want by fine-tuning your shape after significant weight loss. It is also is a great way to take that final step to give you the body you have worked so hard to achieve.

Experience The Stark Difference
More About Dr. Ran Stark And The Practice

Dr. Ran Stark is double board-certified by the American Board of Surgery and the American Board of Plastic Surgery. After medical school, he finished more than 10 years of surgical training, including an aesthetic surgery fellowship under Dr. Louis Bucky.

Dr. Stark was born and raised in Philadelphia and earned his bachelor’s in biology from the University of Delaware. He completed medical school at Tel-Aviv University, where he won the Hillel Nathan Award for Academic Excellence in Anatomy.

To learn more about StarkMD Plastic Surgery in Philadelphia, visit him online.

References

• Body Contouring Overview. (n.d.)
• What Is Body Contouring?
• Body Contouring by Dr. Ran Stark
• Liposuction by Dr. Ran Stark. (n.d).
  

How To Consult Young Plastic Surgery Patients

 

With social media pressures, selfies, HD cameras on cell phones, and reality TV shows, I wondered how many teenagers actually seek plastic surgery for the right reasons. More importantly, how do plastic surgeons consult young plastic surgery patients to make sure they are good candidates? 

This is why I was excited to have plastic surgeon Dr. Ashley Steinberg located at The Clinic for Plastic Surgery in Houston, weigh in on the topic "How to Consult Young Plastic Surgery Patients."

How To Consult Young Plastic Surgery Patients From Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Ashley Steinberg

Teenagers seek plastic surgery for various reasons ranging from addressing a health need to fixing a feature that has made them susceptible to bullying. Add that to the social media pressures, selfies, HD cameras on cell phones, and reality TV shows, it’s not unusual for young adults to want to look their best with cosmetic procedures.

For a long time, plastic surgery was only for people in their 40s, 50s, and beyond. But now, I often see patients come to our practice in their teens, 20s, and early 30s. It’s estimated that teenagers account for about 4% of all cosmetic procedures. 

What Is The Age Of Consent For A Plastic Surgery Consultation

The first thing to remember when you do a plastic surgery consultation with a young adult is the age of consent. All patients must be 18 years old to undergo plastic surgery. If they are younger than that, their parents must provide legal consent for the procedure.

When consulting with a minor patient, it’s essential to also talk to the parents to understand why the young person wants surgery. There are situations, such as rhinoplasty, where having the procedure can make sense because of a cosmetic problem with the nose being too large or having a significant hump, etc.

But some young people are swayed by images from social media, and they want surgery to look like one of their favorite celebrities. Or, the patient may have an overly critical view of their body based on low self-esteem that is frequent in the teen years.

You should talk to the young person’s parents to understand why their son or daughter wants surgery and if they have a healthy frame of mind about the possible outcomes. If they want a perfect body or face, it’s your job to tell the patient that they have unrealistic expectations.

Find Out What Their Goal Is Regarding Plastic Surgery
The young patient should be able to say why they want cosmetic surgery. As I stated earlier, it’s essential to ask questions and find out if they have realistic goals met with plastic surgery.

For example, if a young female has a big bump on her nose bridge and wants it removed, this is a reasonable request, and she will probably be happy with the result. Likewise, if the goal is to have a smaller straighter nose, so she looks like others in their social circle, this is reasonable.

But if the teenager thinks having a smaller and straighter nose will help her get on the cheerleading team, this isn’t a realistic goal, and she isn’t a good candidate for the procedure.

Look For Maturity In A Plastic Surgery Candidate
A good, young plastic surgery candidate should demonstrate maturity and understand the procedure and potential risks and complications. They also should understand what the recovery will be like.

For example, if a young male wants a tummy tuck after significant weight loss, he needs to understand that he will have a four to six-week recovery that will limit most of his activities. In addition, if he is still in high school, he may need to take his classes remotely, and physical activity will be off-limits during that time.

Or, a teenager who wants their nose reshaped but cannot postpone soccer obligations for the six-week recovery isn’t ready for plastic surgery. A mature young candidate should also understand things could go wrong and need revision surgery in a rare case.

Pay Attention To Who Is Asking For The Plastic Surgery
When you meet with the young person and the parents, watch who talks the most. Who is requesting the surgery - the teen or the parent? Be cautious of situations where the parents seem to be suggesting the surgery, not the patient.

It’s possible a parent could project their own experiences and want to safeguard their child from emotional harm. If the patient has ears that stick out, but he doesn’t care about them, you shouldn’t do an otoplasty even if you are confident they'll have a good outcome.

If the patient isn’t requesting that his ears be changed surgically, there is no consent from the patient, even if the parents give theirs.

Remember That Teens Are Self-Conscious About Their Bodies
Most of us are self-conscious about our bodies, but even more so in our teens and early 20s. Some young candidates for plastic surgery procedures may have negative feelings about their bodies, and that is driving them to go under the knife.

But we should remember that their bodies are still developing, and what they think they want now could be different in a few years. For example, a teen female may be self-conscious about her small breasts.

However, the female body can continue to develop well into the mid-20s, so it’s wise to wait on breast augmentation in many cases.

Dealing with young candidates is a different part of a practice surgery practice. Therefore, you will need to use particular caution and consideration when performing a consultation with someone in this age group.

More About Houston's Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Ashley Steinberg And Her Practice
Dr. Ashley Steinberg is from New York City and completed her undergraduate studies in London and Windsor, Ontario, and St. George’s Grenada. After graduation, she completed her general surgical residency in Brooklyn, New York, where she worked with highly skilled and renowned plastic surgeons.

Next, she attended the University of Nevada, School of Medicine, where she worked with the highly-regarded Dr. William Zamboni. After medical school, she did three more years of plastic surgery residency at Houston Medical Center. There, she had the opportunity to work with expert surgeons in microsurgery, aesthetics, craniofacial, and hand surgery.

For more information about Dr. Steinberg, visit her practice online at Dr. Ashley Steinberg Plastic Surgery in Houston.

References

ASPS Weighs In On Growing Popularity Of Teen Plastic Surgery. (2019). Accessed at

https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/press-releases/american-society-of-plastic-surgeons-weighs-in-on-growing-popularity-of-teen-plastic-surgery

Plastic Surgery Consultation Tips. (n.d.). Accessed at

https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/plastic-surgery-consultation-tips

How To Pick The Best Reconstructive Plastic Surgeon

How To Pick The Best Reconstructive Plastic Surgeon, With San Antonio Plastic Surgeon Dr. Scott J Farber And Barbie's Beauty Bits

Plastic surgery has made enormous strides since it first gained popularity in the 1960s. Surgical techniques have advanced, so they’re safer and more sophisticated, and men and women are more at ease with enhancing how they look with cosmetic surgery.

If you consider cosmetic procedures because you need reconstructive surgery, you must choose an excellent surgeon. 

Let’s review how you can find the best reconstructive plastic surgeon to meet your needs and goals.

Check For Board Certification When Searching For A Plastic Surgeon
Suppose you need reconstructive surgery on your face after an accident or the breasts after mastectomy. In that case, it is essential when scheduling an appointment to choose a surgeon who has as much skill and experience as possible.

This means you want to find a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in reconstructive procedures that you need. You should verify that your surgeon is certified by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery or The American Society of Plastic Surgeons. 

Remember that the US government doesn’t require that a surgeon has training in the services they offer. So, it’s possible you could have a surgeon who usually works on the cardiovascular system doing a face reconstruction procedure! This may seem hard to believe, but it’s legal. 

So, when finding the right reconstructive plastic surgeon who is qualified to perform it is up to you to ensure that your surgeon is board-certified. 

Check That The Reconstructive Plastic Surgeon Is Skilled In Your Procedure
If need plastic and reconstructive surgery because you were in a car accident and suffered severe trauma to your cheek and nose. You want to find a board-certified plastic surgeon skilled in reconstructing that part of the face.

It’s essential to have a plastic surgeon who is familiar with reconstructive rhinoplasty so that you can breathe normally through your nose.

Some of the questions you should ask your surgeon are:

• How much training have you had in the procedure I need?
• How many years have you performed this procedure?
• How many times have you done this procedure in the past three years?
• Do you have before and after photos of past patients who have had this procedure? 

Select A Cosmetic And Reconstructive Plastic Surgeon Whose Style Attracts You
Everyone knows that what one person finds attractive, another person may not. That’s why you should not seek medical advice from a friend or trust their recommendation outright about a cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgeon. Instead, you should look at the results of each surgeon you see to determine if their aesthetic sense appeals to you.

San Antonio plastic surgeon Dr. Scott J Farber notes, “Remember that the surgeon you select will be reconstructing part of your body after trauma or surgery, so you want to have someone whose results speak to you.” 

To get a feel for the surgeon’s aesthetic sense, Dr. Farber says you should consider these points:

• Check their credentials.
  
• Contact the State Medical Board – Here patients can find out information on licensing, education, board certification.
• Check their certification – Are they recognized by The American Board of Plastic Surgery? This is the board that is responsible for certifying accrediting plastic surgeons.
• Find out if your surgeon’s facility is accredited – Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care or The American Association of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities  inspects the facility of surgery centers for patient safety and care.
• Search for them – Many surgeons are listed on The American Society of Plastic Surgeons website which provides information on procedures and ASAPS member surgeons.
  
• Review their before and after photos. A great place to look for before and after photos is on RealSelf, as the pictures shown here are unedited. Then, compare each surgeon’s results for the reconstructive procedure you seek. Which doctor’s results look the best to you? 
• One size does not fit all and that is true here as well.  Hence it is essential to look closely at the before and after photos of patients who are your size and general appearance. For example, for face reconstruction, look for patients around your age with a similar facial structure, and have some of the same issues, such as broken cheekbones and nose.
• Check for consistency in each surgeon’s results for every patient that has had that procedure. Do the results look how you would want to look after surgery.

Check How The Surgeon And Staff Communicate With You
Having reconstructive surgery is a big deal, and it’s essential that you feel completely comfortable with the surgeon and the staff when choosing a plastic surgeon. After all, you will have major surgery and communicate with them for months as you recover and come in for follow-up appointments.

Some questions to ask yourself:

• Do I enjoy talking to this surgeon?
• Does he make me feel at ease?
• Does he mind when I ask questions?
• Will I be comfortable asking the surgeon questions during the entire process?
• Am I comfortable giving my medical history to this surgeon?

Review Customer Service When Selecting A Surgeon
You should be sure when you have reconstructive surgery that you feel comfortable with everyone on the staff. After all, you will probably have weeks or months of recovery and will need to interact with many people there.

Check if the staff is helpful and friendly and whether the materials you get prepare you for the surgery and recovery. Also, you should always get a quick answer when you contact the practice, whether it’s by phone, text, or email.

Remember that going through reconstructive plastic surgery of any kind can be overwhelming and stressful. But if you are working with a top-notch, board-certified surgeon, you will be in the best of hands.

References

Finding The Right Plastic Surgeon For You. (n.d.). Accessed at 

https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/finding-the-right-plastic-surgeon-for-you

Choosing A Cosmetic Surgeon. (n.d.). Accessed at

https://www.americanboardcosmeticsurgery.org/patient-resources/choosing-a-cosmetic-surgeon/

Top Things To Consider When Wanting To Have A Cosmetic Procedure

Are you considering cosmetic procedures or even some noninvasive cosmetic treatments? With all modern-day technologies, many (not just the Hollywood movie stars) are considering going under the knife, getting fillers and other injectables like botox, even some noninvasive procedures like CoolSculpting.

However, many are just diving in before doing their research! Don't believe me, tune into the TV show Botched, where you can see botched cosmetic procedures thanks to unqualified, so call doctors corrected by some highly qualified surgeons who are on the TV show.

So before you consider any type of cosmetics procedures, treatments, or plastic surgeries, make sure you go through this checklist!

Top 7 Things To Consider When Wanting To Have A Cosmetic Procedure

Set Realistic Expectations When Considering A Cosmetic Procedure
While cosmetic procedures can enhance your appearance, which could ultimately boost your confidence, it is not end all fix all for any low self-esteem issues you may have. It is true that some procedures can boost your self-confidence, however it is only part of the picture, as it is not going to solve your job hunting problem, dating issues, depression, etc. And a qualified plastic surgeon will tell you this and may ask some uncomfortable questions. So instead of getting defensive, answer the questions honestly, as you may not even realize your true intentions.  

Selecting A Board Certified Plastic Surgeon When Considering A Cosmetic Procedure
This is much easier said than done. Think about all of the botched procedures; more than likely, most people thought they did their research and worked with someone with a board certification. But this does not mean they are good at their job. The search for potential surgeons needs to be a lengthy one. Not one day you wake up and think, I want to get a tummy tuck or my nose done this month.  

If it a surgical procedure like a nose job, do your research by looking for a rhinoplasty expert. This is not just what you see on a website, as it is not like a Dr. is going to share botched photos or promote negative reviews. Research all reviews, not just ones on their website, look at the number of reviews, check out their social media page, google my business page, ask around town for referrals, and the best place is to visit is RealSelf.  

Visit RealSelf Website For Reviews On Cosmetic Procedures
I love the Realself website, it is a great plastic surgeon review forum. I found it a few years ago when working for a doctor. They offer tons of resources, answered questions from people considering procedures, doctors' inputs, and honest reviews from patients reviewing Realself doctors.

Another great thing about this website is their RealSelf Verified. It will show a blue check mark next to a doctor’s name in their profile, signifying they meet or exceed RealSelf's high trust, transparency standard, and have high patient satisfaction.

Be Prepared For Your Consultation With A Plastic Surgeon
Like anything significant in life, you need planning, and this involves questions for the plastic surgeon even debunking any myths about plastic surgery you may have and more. As not only will the Dr. be interviewing you, you need to be interviewing the plastic surgeon. And yes, some may be uncomfortable asking some of these questions, but it is better than ending up a botched TV candidate.

Some important questions to ask during your cosmetic surgery consult:

1. Am I a good candidate for this procedure?
2. Is it the right choice for my body and my goals?
3. How many of these procedures do you personally perform?
4. Ask about the surgical facilities. Some could be in the office, others in an operating room.
5. Will you be the one that performs this procedure?
6. What are the risks?
7. What happens if I do not like the end result?
8. The type of anesthesia?
9. What is the recovery period?

Make Sure You Understand The Cosmetic Procedure
Many have misguided pieces of information and what to expect from a particular procedure. I will use CoolSculpting, for example. CoolSculpting is promoted as a method for fat reduction. What it is not is a procedure for overweight people to lose weight. This noninvasive procedure is actually recommended for people at their ideal weight; who have some stubborn body fat they can't get rid of by working out, yes I said working out. You need to be healthy and NOT overweight and following this lifestyle after the procedure! Bet you did not know that, did you?

Oh, and always ask for the potential side effects and how common they are, as there are side effects like paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH) a nasty side effect with Coolscupting making you larger instead of smaller.

Cosmetic Procedures: Do It For Yourself, Not Others
A lot of females consider breast augmentation, for example, because their boyfriend suggested it. On the same token, never NOT do something because your husband or boyfriend doesn't approve, as it is not his body. Make sure you are doing it for yourself and you only. This is why I highly suggest not asking your friends for their opinions.

Budget For The Expense Of A Cosmetic Procedure
You need to be thinking about the financial side of your decision as, yes, some cosmetic procedures are costly, especially the ones that require anesthesia. And guess what, they are not covered by insurance. And this is where many try to cut corners, search for bargain deals, go out of the country and not work with an American board doctors, and end up with botched results. Cosmetic treatments and procedures should not be done with the bargain shopping approach.

SO HOW CAN I AFFORD THIS? Many may not know that most plastic surgeons offer financial assistance, so in your consultation, ask about these. This is like any type of loan, so your credit plays a significant part.

In conclusion, one of the doctors on Botched said it best, “Cosmetic surgery is something you do for yourself—not for a spouse, partner or parent,” “Your body is forever. Treat it preciously.”