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Plastic Surgery Long Island

Lip Augmentation: Should I Choose Implants or a Filler?

February 16th, 2012

Countless women know all too well what it’s like to live with thinning or flat lips.  In a society that associates full, plump lips with youth and beauty, it’s no wonder that many of these women experience issues of self esteem and an overall lack of confidence.  Thankfully, modern cosmetic surgery offers Lip Augmentation—both surgical and non-surgical.  So, what’s the difference between lip augmentation with implants and lip augmentation with a filler?  The answer is simple: what the procedure is like and how long your results will last.

One of the most popular fillers for lip augmentation today is Restylane.  Restylane Injections are not only used to treat facial creases, but they can now be used to enhance the appearance of the lips.  This minimally-invasive procedure can add volume and fullness to the lips, and the recovery time is relatively short.  Though not a permanent fix, the effects of a Restylane lip treatment can last up to six months.

Patients looking for a more permanent option will often choose lip implants over fillers.  There are different implant types available, the most permanent of which would be a synthetic implant.  While the results may last you a lifetime, the procedure is surgical, and your recovery time will be longer.  So which of these lip augmentation procedures are trending?  Read on to find out!

Implants on the Rise

Each year, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) publishes statistics on cosmetic procedures in the US.  This year’s data was just released, and the numbers may surprise you.  While soft-tissue fillers saw an overall 7% uptick in 2011, surgical lip augmentation nearly doubled in popularity, showing a remarkable 49% increase over the previous year’s data.  All in all, there were 25,477 surgical lip augmentation procedures performed in 2011.  Think this procedure may be right for you?  Schedule a consultation and find out!

Plastic Surgery Consultation in Long Island

As a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, I can tell you that the best way to have all your questions answered is to schedule a consultation.  There, we can discuss your surgical goals as well as the potential benefits and risks of any procedure.  So, do something for yourself—contact us and book your appointment.  Our Long Island Plastic Surgery Offices are located in Huntington, serving the surrounding areas.  Call us today at (631) 424-6707.  We look forward to working with you.

Posted in Face Procedures | No Comments »

Breast Augmentation is Still Number One, Says NPR

February 15th, 2012

Like anything else, plastic surgery can be affected by a down economy.  As NPR puts it, “People pay out of their own pocket for this sort of medical care. So when times get tough, cosmetic procedures tend to decline. Now, they’re picking up.”  Picking up is right!  According to data just released by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), cosmetic procedures are seeing a full 5% rise overall.  Incredibly, there were 13,828,726 cosmetic procedures performed in 2011 alone.  A growing trend in the world of plastic surgery?  Non-surgical treatment.  Less-invasive procedures—e.g., Botox, Microderm, etc.—saw a remarkable 6% increase in just one year.

Of course, for patients seeking more dramatic or more permanent cosmetic solutions, surgery is often the only option—and it’s up too.  “It’s the second year in a row that cosmetic operations increased by 2 percent,” reports NPR, “Breast augmentation is still No. 1.”  So, why is breast surgery still on top?  Read on to find out.

Choosing Breast Surgery

Based on the ASPS data, 2011 showed a 4% increase in Breast Augmentation Surgery.  So, why is this procedure still number one?  Women unsatisfied with the size of their chest can often experience deep-seeded psychological effects.  Small breasts can limit confidence and hurt self-esteem.  For many of these women, breast augmentation is a welcome solution.

As the most popular cosmetic surgery in the US, breast augmentation aims to achieve a fuller, shapelier bust.  During the procedure, implants are placed under the breast tissue or under the muscle of the chest wall.  These will either take the form of saline implants or silicone implants.  Regardless of the implant type, many patients are simply amazed with their results.  Want to find out more?  The only way is to schedule a consultation.

Schedule Your Consultation Today!

A Breast Augmentation Consultation is the best way to have your questions answered.  It’s a time to discuss your cosmetic goals, the potential benefits and risks of surgery and what type of implant may be right for you.  So, take the first step—contact us and schedule your consultation.  As a Long Island Plastic Surgeon, our offices are located in Huntington, proudly serving the surrounding areas.  Call our office at (631) 424-6707.  We look forward to working with you.

Posted in Breast Procedures | No Comments »

Facelift Earns its Place Among Top 5 Cosmetic Surgeries

February 9th, 2012

Every year around this time, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) releases data on the cosmetic procedures performed in the US.  The society also ranks the top five surgical procedures and minimally-invasive procedures within the given year.  Excitingly, the ASPS has just released its most recent data, and these figures may surprise you.  In 2011 alone, there were 1,579,079 surgical cosmetic procedures performed in the US, a full 2% increase from 2010.  If that sounds impressive, listen to this.  When it comes to minimally-invasive cosmetic treatments such as Botox, there were 12,249,647 procedures performed in the US.  That number represents a full 6% increase from the 2010 data.

This year, there were also some notable changes in the ASPS’s list of top five cosmetic surgeries.  While Breast Augmentation and rhinoplasty retained the top two positions, Facelift Surgery surpassed last year’s number-five surgery which was the Tummy Tuck.  A facelift works by tightening the underlying muscles and redraping the skin around the neck and face.  Many patients find that this surgery takes years off their appearance.  But, how about those looking for less-invasive techniques?  Read on!

Botox & Dysport Still Number One

Upon looking at this year’s ASPS data, the clear winner in terms of number of procedures performed was Botulinum Toxin Type A, which is to say Botox and Dysport.  So, why are these cosmetic treatments so popular?  The answer is simple—they work.

Botox is essentially a muscle relaxer that works to prevent facial creases, like those of “smile lines.”  The effects of Botox can be seen within 24 hours following treatment.  Results become more apparent in the days following.  Though individual results can vary, the effects of Botox typically last up to four months.

Explore Cosmetic Treatment Today!

Contact us today and find out more about the Plastic Surgery options available to you.  Our offices are located in Huntington Station, serving Long Island and the surrounding areas.  Book your consultation at (631) 424-6707.  We look forward to working with you.

Posted in Botox & Fillers, Plastic Surgery News | No Comments »

Think You’re Too Old For Cosmetic Treatment? Think Again!

February 8th, 2012

In today’s world, people are living longer.  It stands to reason that people want to look better for longer.  Each year the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) releases data on the cosmetic procedures—both surgical and non-surgical—performed in the US.  If you think cosmetic treatment is only for those in their 40s, these numbers may surprise you!

According to the most recent ASPS data, a full 22% of all cosmetic surgeries in 2010 were performed on patients over the age of 55.  And, if you think that’s impressive, listen to this.  When it comes to minimally-invasive cosmetic treatments like Botox and Microdermabrasion, patients 55 and up comprised a full 26% of all procedures performed.  While each person is unique and not every older patient would be a good candidate for surgery, these numbers suggest that we’re never too old to care about our appearance!

Top Cosmetic Procedures Among Older Patients

Today, patients are looking to brighten up their golden years!  Here are just a few of the cosmetic procedures older patients are seeking out today.

Popular Cosmetic Procedures Among Patients Ages 55+:

  • Dermal fillers: For deep, persistent creases, dermal fillers like Juvederm and Restylane are a great way to freshen one’s appearance.  Essentially, fillers work by filling in the spaces or “valleys” of creases.  Restylane can also be used to plump the lips as a non-surgical alternative to lip implants.
  • Eyelid surgery: As we age, the eyelids can naturally sag and droop.  For these patients, eyelid surgery is often the answer.  During an Eyelid Lift, we remove excess fat, skin and muscle from the upper and lower eyelids, with the aim of achieving a more youthful appearance.
  • Facelift: Facelift Surgery is a procedure used to combat the appearance of facial sagging and the loss of muscle tone.  During the procedure, we tighten the underlying muscles and redrape the skin around the neck and face.  For some patients, this procedure can take years off their appearance.

Interested in Cosmetic Treatment, Yourself?

Let us help you address your cosmetic goals!  Contact us today and find out more about the Plastic Surgery options available to you.  Our Long Island Plastic Surgery Offices are located in Huntington Station, serving Long Island and the surrounding areas.  Schedule a consultation today at (631) 424-6707.

Posted in Botox & Fillers, Face Procedures, Plastic Surgery News | No Comments »

The Winter/Wrinkle Connection & What You Can Do About It!

February 2nd, 2012

While you wouldn’t believe it from looking out your window on a day like today, the harsh winds and bitter cold of winter will eventually be hitting us.  And, as many of us know, winter can take its toll on our skin.  On one of Yahoo’s “Shine” blogs, the folks from TotalBeauty.com are reporting on how the cold affects our skin—and what we can do about it!  “True, the sun is a huge cause of many nasty skin issues,” explains the article, “but winter — with its dry air, harsh winds, cold temperatures, extra glasses of cheer and holiday stresses — is also largely responsible for those fine lines and wrinkles.”

So why does this happen?  In short, the cold dries your skin, sapping it of its natural moisture.  It’s important to understand that dehydrated skin can often spell wrinkles.  To combat this, the article suggests a good moisturizer as well as protecting yourself with hats, gloves and a scarf. These act as a barrier between you and the bitter cold around you. While these tips are no doubt helpful, wrinkles are a natural part of the aging process.  Thankfully, there are a myriad of cosmetic treatments available today that help patients achieve a fresher, more youthful appearance.  Read on to learn about a few services offered at our Long Island Plastic Surgery Offices.

Winter Skin Treatments

Today’s cosmetic techniques can help you make this season the winter of beautiful skin.  Take some time to explore the cosmetic treatments you’ve been considering for a while.

Here are a few cosmetic services we offer:

  • Botox & fillers: Some of our best weapons against facial wrinkles are Botox Injections and dermal fillers like Restylane and Juvederm.  Botox—which is essentially a muscle relaxer—works to prevent intermittent facial creases, such as smile lines.  For deeper or more persistent creases, fillers are often a better choice.  These injectables work by filling in the “valleys” of creases.  Certain fillers can also be used to firm the cheeks and plump the lips.
  • Facelift: Many women choose a facelift as a more permanent answer to some of their most pressing facial concerns.  Facelift Surgery works by tightening the underlying muscles and redraping the skin around the neck and face.  For many patients, this procedure can take years off their appearance.
  • Microdermabrasion: Microderm—short for Microdermabrasion—is a minimally-invasive cosmetic treatment aimed to smooth the skin, soften fine lines and combat the appearance of sun damage.  Using a gentle stream of fine particles, we exfoliate the skin, removing its rough outer layers.

Do Something for Yourself this Winter

Let us help you achieve your cosmetic goals!  To find out more about these or any of the other cosmetic treatments we offer, contact us today.  Our cosmetic surgery offices are located in Huntington, proudly serving the surrounding areas.  Schedule your consultation at (631) 424-6707.  Call today.

Posted in Women's Health and Beauty | No Comments »

Buyer Beware! The Dangers of Do-It-Yourself “Botox Kits”

February 1st, 2012

NBC 4 LA is reporting on a frightening new trend that consumers need to watch out for: at-home Botox kits.  These do-it-yourself injectables claim to save you money, but can actually cost you something much more valuable—your health.  According to the report, a number of websites are selling products claiming to be Botox and other cosmetic products.  Apparently, several YouTube clips are even offering instructions on how to self inject.  In response to this terrifying news, NBC spoke with a Dr. Richard Glogau, quoting him as saying “Bad Botox can give you bad cosmetic effect, all the way up to paralysis, inability to breathe and death.”

ABC News also reported on the dangers of DIY cosmetic procedures a while back.  This report sought the opinion of dermatologist, Dr. Joel Cohen.  According to ABC, Cohen believes that, “DIY cosmetic procedures are a terrible way to save money, and only skilled professionals can administer the injections safely.”  It seems appropriate to quote an old adage here—if something seems too good to be true, it probably is!

Botox Treatment from a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Although frightening, this recent trend emphasizes the importance of seeking out a qualified professional, such as a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.  Botox—which is still the most common cosmetic procedure in the US—is a powerful treatment and should be treated as such.

So, why do countless women and men seek out Botox Treatments every year?  The answer is simple: it works!  Botox is essentially a muscle relaxer that works to prevent creases in the skin, with the most common Botox sites being the forehead, frown lines and crow’s feet.  The effects of Botox can be seen within 24 hours following the treatment, and results become more apparent in the days following.  While individual results can vary, the effects of Botox typically last up to four months.

Seek Certified Care—Schedule Your Consultation

To explore Botox or any of the other cosmetic treatments we offer, don’t hesitate to contact us today.  Our Long Island Plastic Surgery Office is located in Huntington, serving the surrounding areas.  Schedule your consultation today at (631) 424-6707.  We look forward to working with you.

Posted in Botox & Fillers, Plastic Surgery News | No Comments »

ASAPS Explains the Importance of Pre-Surgery Research

January 26th, 2012

In a recent news report, The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) reminds patients of the importance of “doing your homework” before jumping into any cosmetic procedure. First and foremost, you should always research your plastic surgeon.  According to the ASAPS, “Unlicensed or inexperienced surgeons may help cut costs, but the dangers of going under the knife without researching the background of a doctor are insurmountable.”  Always seek out a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.  Always ask for their credentials.

Secondly, you should understand that plastic surgery is often misrepresented in the media.  Because of this, one of your most important considerations should be keeping goals realistic.  Research the procedure you’re looking into as well as some actual results.  Plastic Surgery Before and After Photos can always help.  But, no matter how much research you do, the only way to find out everything you need to know is to schedule a plastic surgery consultation.

The Consultation: Your Questions Answered

A plastic surgery consultation is the time to ask questions, voice concerns and set realistic goals.  If you’re looking into a procedure such as Botox Injections, a consultation will really help to shed light on the potential benefits and limitations of treatment.  If you’re looking for a more in-depth procedure such as Breast Lift Surgery, your consultation will be essential to evaluating your medical needs and goals.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Contact us today and find out more about the Plastic Surgery options available to you.  Our offices are located in Huntington Station, serving Long Island and the surrounding areas.  Book your consultation at (631) 424-6707.  We look forward to working with you.

Posted in Plastic Surgery News | No Comments »

New Research Confirms that Appearance Affects Us All

January 25th, 2012

When we think of “body image,” we often think of its effects on women.  However, new research out of the UK suggests that men, too, can struggle with appearance.  British newspaper, The Guardian, is reporting on one study that polled 394 British men about their attitudes and beliefs toward their bodies. According to the article, “More than four in five men (80.7%) talk in ways that promote anxiety about their body image by referring to perceived flaws and imperfections.”  The Guardian also quotes the woman who conducted the study, Dr. Phillippa Diedrichs.  According to Dr. Diedrichs, “These findings tell us that men are concerned about body image, just like women.”

Beauty and fashion magazine, Marie Claire, reported on this new study as well.  In light of its rather surprising data, the magazine sought out the opinion of Alan White, a professor of men’s health at Leeds Metropolitan University.  According to the article, Mr. White has seen “a big increase in British men opting for cosmetic procedures, including nose jobs, and removal of breast tissue, over the past 10 years.”

More Men Seeking Out Cosmetic Treatment

Cosmetic treatments that were once only popular among women are now being explored by an ever-growing male population.  This trend is clearly reflected in the plastic surgery data from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.  According to the latest ASPS data, men now make up a full 9% of all cosmetic procedures in the US.

Here are a few cosmetic procedures more and more men are choosing today:

  • Eyelid surgery: As we age, our eyelids will naturally sag and droop.  While this can be unattractive, for many, it can also interfere with vision.  An Eyelid Lift—also known as blepharoplasty—works to combat these issues.  During the procedure, excess fat, skin and muscle is removed from the upper and lower eyelids.  Male patients often find that this procedure helps them achieve a fresher, more youthful appearance.
  • Botox & fillers: Injectable treatments are wildly popular among men.  Botox, which is essentially a muscle relaxer, works to prevent creases that appear intermittently, such as crow’s feet and smile lines.  For deeper, more persistent wrinkles, dermal fillers like Juvederm and Restylane work to fill in the spaces or “valleys’ of creases.
  • Liposuction: Some areas of fat simply won’t respond to exercise.  Thankfully, we can often tackle these through Liposuction.  During the procedure, we remove stubborn fat from the abdomen, waist, hips, buttocks and/or thighs using a suction tool.  The result is often a slimmer waistline and a more trim body.

Is Plastic Surgery Right for You?

If you’ve been meaning to speak with a Long Island Plastic Surgeon, contact us today and schedule a consultation.  Our offices are located in Huntington Station, serving Long Island and the surrounding areas.  We can be reached at (631) 424-6707.

Posted in Plastic Surgery News | No Comments »

Winter Best Time for Breast Lift and Other Procedures, Says Huffington Post Contributor

January 19th, 2012

Plastic surgery patients often want to know the best time of year for cosmetic surgery.  While everyone is different, The Huffington Post is reporting on a few reasons why winter just may be the best time of year for procedures such as breast lifts, blepharoplasty and facelifts.  The article, which was written by a board-certified plastic surgeon, explains that “Universally, [winter] is an ideal time to undergo just about any type of cosmetic surgery, from facelift to liposuction.”

The article attributes this to how bulkier winter clothing can conceal post-surgery swelling and bruising.  Also, winter is often a time of year where businesses slow down and people can take off from work more easily.  This provides patients with ample time to rest and recover following their procedure.  Wondering about the other seasons? The Huffington Post describes summer as a good time for less-invasive work like body contouring and Botox.

Exploring Plastic Surgery this Season

With winter an ideal time for more extensive cosmetic procedures, here is a bit of information on some procedures you may be considering this season.

“Wintertime” Cosmetic Procedures:

  • Facelift: As we age, the face naturally sags, droops and loses muscle tone.  Thankfully, Facelift Surgery works to combat these issues.  By tightening the underlying muscles and redraping the skin around the neck and face, we can help you achieve a fresher, more youthful appearance.  It has even been suggested that a facelift can take as many as 10-15 years off your appearance.
  • Eyelid surgery: An Eyelid Lift—also known as blepharoplasty—works to combat eyelid sagging and drooping.  For this procedure, we remove excess fat, skin and muscle from the upper and lower eyelids.  Patients often find that this procedure makes them appear younger and more attractive.
  • Breast lift: Winter is the ideal time to explore your breast surgery options.  When breasts have sagged or lost firmness, a breast lift is often the solution.  During the procedure, excess skin is removed and supporting tissues of the breast are tightened.  We also specialize in a technique called the Lollipop Breast Lift, which borrows its name from the shape of the incision.  This procedure can combat severe droop and often results in less scarring.

Make This the Winter of Cosmetic Treatment

Contact us today and find out more about the Plastic Surgery options available to you.  Our offices are located in Huntington Station, serving Long Island and the surrounding areas.  Book a consultation today at (631) 424-6707.

Posted in Body Procedures, Plastic Surgery News | No Comments »

Freshening Up for Valentine’s Day? You Won’t Be Alone…

January 18th, 2012

With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, many couples may be looking to “freshen up” a bit.  In fact, a growing number of couples today are seeking out cosmetic treatment—together.  NBC’s Today Show recently reported on one pair who did just that.  According to Today, Ira and Roberta Almeas “had minimally invasive work done to slow the signs of aging.”  Among the procedures the couple chose were Botox and dermal fillers.

This new trend in plastic surgery can surely be attributed to the changing attitudes among men toward cosmetic treatment.  Procedures that were once only popular among women are now being embraced by a growing male population.  When reflecting on the decision to undergo treatment as a couple, Today quotes Mr. Almeas as saying, “We feel a little bit more refreshed, a little bit more energy, and it’s just another part of our life together that we’re sharing.”

Exploring Less-Invasive Cosmetic Treatment

More and more, men and women are seeking out cosmetic treatment to prepare for those special holidays or events.  There are a myriad of less-invasive cosmetic procedures available today.

Less-invasive cosmetic procedures you may be interested in:

  • Botox: For lines and creases that appear intermittently, such as “smile lines,” Botox is often the answer.  Essentially, Botox is a muscle relaxer that works to prevent creases in the skin.  The most common sites for Botox injections are the forehead, frown lines and crow’s feet.
  • Microdermabrasion: Microdermabrasion—also known as microderm—is a procedure used to smooth the skin, soften fine lines and combat the appearance of sun damage.  This is done by introducing a stream of fine particles to the skin.  A non-invasive procedure that doesn’t require anesthesia, microderm usually takes around 30 minutes.
  • Lip augmentation with dermal fillers: Dermal fillers are often used to fill in creases in the skin, but did you know that certain fillers can be used to plump the lips?  A non-surgical alternative to implants, fillers such as Restylane can help provide fuller lips, and results can typically last several months.

Are You and Your Significant Other Considering Cosmetic Treatment?

To find out if these or other treatments are right for you, contact us today and schedule a consultation.  Our Plastic Surgery Offices are located in Huntington Station, serving Long Island and the surrounding areas.  Book a consultation today at (631) 424-6707.

Posted in Botox & Fillers, Plastic Surgery News | No Comments »