Breast Augmentation
Breast augmentation surgery is the most widely known breast enhancement surgery, which involves placing a saline or silicone-filled breast implant inside the breast to increase size and improve shape. There are various placement options for breast implants–submuscular, subglandular, and others.

If you are dissatisfied with the size of your breasts, or simply want a curvier, fuller figure, breast augmentation with either saline or silicone breast implants may be the option for you. Both types of breast implants have been approved for use by the FDA. Though older types of silicone implants were once considered unsafe, newer silicone implants have been approved and used for years.

Take the time to review some photos online from a breast augmentation results gallery to see the results other women with your body type and breast size have achieved. Use the photos to visualize yourself after surgery to help you decide if breast augmentation surgery is right for you.

Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
Another type of breast enhancement is breast lift surgery, which restores a youthful, perkier shape to breasts that have begun to sag as a result of pregnancy or gravity alone. By itself or in combination with breast augmentation surgery, breast lifts have helped thousands of women regain the figure they used to have.

Breast lift surgery can be an attractive option, especially for older women who worry about the safety of getting breast implants. In fact, breast lift surgery can make the breasts appear larger without implants, especially for women with sagging breasts.

For either breast augmentation or breast lift surgery, choosing the right plastic surgeon for you is very important. Be sure to select someone qualified and experienced in performing whatever procedure you choose. You may even choose to have your breast enhancement procedure in a sunny vacation destination like Phoenix, Arizona.

The procedure involves taking blood from the patient’s arm and immediately centrifuged for five minutes to promote cellular growth. The blood is then separated in the serum from the red cells, immediately stimulated with amino acids and is reinjected into the area of the skin that is to be treated.

There are two types of shots: many injections to the superficial layers of the skin, which are done in about 10 minutes, and a smaller series that go deeper into the skin, including areas such as the eyes, the mouth and the forehead. There is no bleeding after the entire thing is done – just mild redness and a sensation of numbness. The results should become apparent the next day and then more and more visible with each week, having the obvious advantage of being a procedure that leaves no scars and requires no recovery time. Results typically last 4-6 months.

“My patients have been asking about this for a long time,” says Dr. Bill Johnson, Medical Director of Innovations Medical. “And now, it’s reality. We can remove unwanted fat from a mid-section or thighs and use it for breast augmentation. It’s easier and healthier than most other breast augmentation procedures, and the results are remarkable.”

Clinically, the process is called autologous fat transfer, or natural breast augmentation. Advanced liposuction technology has been coupled with new fat grafting procedures to allow physicians to remove and then relocate the fat tissue within a matter of hours. The patient is awake during the procedure and can have it completed in one morning or one afternoon.

“Many women haven’t been satisfied with their implants, or just don’t like the idea of a man-made substance inside their body,” says Dr. Johnson, “for them, fat transfer is the answer.” Besides using the body’s own tissue, fat transfer requires smaller incisions, less anesthesia and the recovery is typically much quicker. For women who have had both procedures, the comparison is stark. Most of them say fat transfer offers a more natural feel, no worry of leakage and no concerns over an auto-immune reaction to the chemical implant. In addition, fat transfer is usually cheaper than implant surgery.

“But not all women are suitable fat transfer candidates,” warns Dr. Johnson. “She has to have enough excess fat, be healthy with a series of completely normal mammographies. We don’t want to complicate any existing conditions.”

“Breast Fat Transfer” is still a relatively unknown procedure, making up only approximately 5% of overall domestic breast augmentations. As the procedure’s popularity expands, however, that number could quickly grow.

The S-Curve Buttock Lift™ procedure is a method developed by Dr. Ghavami, which makes use of thorough liposuction and fat displacement to create a body shape that is both sensually curvy and tastefully proportional. Dr. Ghavami employs liposuction to remove unflattering fat from areas that demote aesthetic curvature in the body. This is mostly applicable to the hips, above the hips, stomach area, and flanks. Treatment may extend to other areas of the body where necessary, but in either case, the liposuction is the first step in Dr. Ghavami’s S-Curve™ butt lift procedure. Fat removed from the body is then harvested before being injected and sculpted into the buttocks, hips, or other desired areas; the small of the back is one of the areas where curvature is made much more prominent in order to compliment the buttocks even further.  Key principles of this technique are the extensive pre-operative analysis and patient markings, as well as knowing exactly how much fat to take and how much fat to leave behind.  After surgery and a recovery period lasting a little over one month, patients are able to carry on all normal activity and exercise with their new, curvy body shapes.

Dr. Ghavami’s extensive experience in the field of plastic surgery, performing the innovative S-Curve Buttock Lift™ , along with breast augmentation, ethnic rhinoplasty, and many other procedures, has allowed him to create outstanding results and countless success stories for his patients. His writings have appeared in plastic surgery books and journals, and his expertise in the field has been consulted for a number of media outlets, including prime time television programs.

For more information on the S-Curve™ buttock augmentation surgery, please contact Dr. Ghavami’s assistant, Jocelyn Creech, at (877) 504-5353 or visit the detailed buttock augmentation pages and photo gallery on www.Ghavamiplasticsurgery.com

The two methods of butt augmentation are implant placement and fat grafting. The advantage of implants is that they can be used in patients who might not have enough fat to harvest for injection. They are also permanent. However, implants also have many common side effects including chronic pain, infection, seroma formation (fluid collections around the implants), and hardening with unnatural feel. Because of these possible complications, many surgeons prefer fat injections… Read full article via  Dr John Burns :: Dallas Plastic Surgery Institute

Because breast implants are measured in cc (cubic centimeter) units, it is difficult for many women to determine which size they need to achieve an A, B, C, or D cup. Further, a 350 cc implant in one woman may result in a small C cup while the same implant placed in another woman may result in a full C or small D cup. That is why it is so important to consult a qualified plastic surgeon that can guide you in choosing the implant that is right for you…

Read more via Breast Implant Size Ranges – Dallas Plastic Surgeon

Metropolitan Medical Care — established by the award-winning Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center is under the direction of acclaimed expert on Anti-Aging and Hormone Replacement therapy, Alex Martin MD, who is listed as a doctor resource and HGH expert in both of the latest books, BREAKTHROUGH, 8 Steps to Wellness and KNOCKOUT by notable author and actress, Suzanne Somers. Residents of the fabled neighborhood along the Walk of Fame now have the opportunity to benefit from the latest skincare and anti-aging technologies once only available in the most prestigious clinics and spas in Europe.

Dr. Martin — a physician and skin surgeon — graduated from USC Medical School and is also an alumnus of Cedar Sinai Hospital’s graduate program. He is certified in Anti-Aging and has had an established practice in Orange County for the past 20 years where he was chief of staff of Whittier Hospital and Medical Director of two large medical groups. He was brought to Hollywood from Newport Beach to open a clinic in the heart of the city by the Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center.

“We represent the future,” explains Dr. Martin.  ”Consumers know that science and technology constantly develop new and sophisticated ways to combat aging.  Our purpose is to work closely with our patients to create a smart plan for staying ahead of the curve and enjoying long, healthy and dynamic lives.”

The array of services offered at Metropolitan Medical is a reflection of Dr. Martin’s expertise coupled with the services of noted Nevada plastic surgeon, Mervin Low M.D. and Peter Fodor M.D., who has established practices in Los Angeles and Orange County.  Future plans including adding more skincare experts to the MMC roster.

The Center’s offerings include the very latest options for:

• Human Growth Hormone & Testosterone Replacement
• Bioidentical Hormone Replacement (as featured in the new film SEX AND THE CITY  2)
• HCG Weight Loss Programs
• Liposuction – with Vaser ultrasound to promote healing
• Tummy Tucks
• Breast Augmentation/Reconstruction
• Scar Revision
• Fractional C02 Laser Resurfacing
• Martin Lift™ – thread lift
• Laser Hair Removal and the new painless thermo-electrolysis
• Injectables such as Botox/Dysport and all fillers
• Microdermabrasion
• Lumage, the targeted hyperpigmentation peel
• Facials
• Preston Martin skincare line
• Concierge Primary Care

With inspiration coming from childhood friend, Stanley Marcus, the founder of Neiman Marcus and his book “Quest for the Best” philosophy, Dr. Martin says his mission is to offer an all inclusive anti-aging clinic of excellence on every level.  He isn’t concerned about any questions that may arise from offering services that may be controversial in some circles as long they are safe and they work.

“For instance, hormone replacement therapy is often misunderstood,” he continues. “Just because athletes are prohibited from having a competitive advantage by taking HGH, doesn’t mean that the rest of us don’t want our everyday performance enhanced by a safe, smart supplement.  In fact, 5 out of 9 doctors we worked with at an Orange County Cancer Center are on HGH.”

Dr. Martin has already developed his own line of cosmeceutical skincare products and is focusing next on stem cell treatments and nanotech designer molecules that zero in on areas of the body that need repair.

Located at 7080 Hollywood Blvd. in Suite 804, Metropolitan Medical Care combines highly skilled primary concierge medical care with full-service cosmetic surgery and hormone replacement services.  This elegant, new Anti-Aging Clinic offers personal care, education and support so patients can make the best decisions regarding their personal health and wellness.  For more information, visit www.metromedicalcare.com or call 800-477-8891.

Even though cosmetic surgery is not a new phenomenon, studies point out that there has been a seismic shift in the past 10-15 years in what is considered possible and desirable to change in the bodies we are born with. This “body-changing culture” is becoming pervasive and, nowadays, it includes changes to most parts of the body, especially to the most intimate ones, such as the genitalia. The journal reveals that the procedures used to cosmetically modify female external genitalia are exactly the same as those employed in female genital mutilation (FGM). Whereas there is legislation in both Europe and Africa against FGM, there is none against female genital cosmetic surgery.

This edition also describes the serious complications that could arise from some of these procedures, and how much additional surgery they can lead to. Moreover, it casts doubt on whether this type of surgery actually “works”. That is, on how long the beautifying effects actually last, and whether people’s lives are in fact changed for the better after the procedure. While cosmetic surgery may liberate some from negative preoccupations with their appearance, it may also fuel fears among young and, otherwise vulnerable women – that their perfectly normal breasts and genitals do not live up to current fashion, or that they are abnormal and need surgical intervention.

The journal points out the lack of clarity on whether women are being given sufficient information about the risks and the benefits of cosmetic surgery. This last issue raises questions about the extent of informed consent and the ways all these practices should be regulated to protect patients.

Articles include:

• Genitals and ethnicity: the politics of genital modifications
• The experience and responses of Swedish health professionals to patients requesting virginity restoration (hymen repair)
• A poor prognosis for autonomy: self-regulated cosmetic surgery in the United Kingdom
• On norms and bodies: findings from field research on cosmetic surgery in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
• Make me beautiful
• “Reasonably safe”: women, breasts and informed consent

Articles in this journal issue focus on Australia, Brazil, Burkina Faso, India, Iran, Netherlands, South Africa, Sweden UK and USA.

A plastic surgeon who is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery must undergo a challenging and thorough evaluation process to measure his or her knowledge and skill. The surgeon must have graduated from an accredited medical school and completed at least five years of residency training. At least two years of the patient’s residency program must be devoted entirely to cosmetic surgery. The last step in becoming board-certified is to complete comprehensive written and oral exams that test the surgeon’s ability to perform many different plastic surgery procedures. The American Board of Plastic Surgery is approved by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education. It is important to understand that not all “Board Certification” is approved by this body which exists to maintain a very high standard of training and ability.

For patients seeking liposuction in St. Louis and other surgical and non-surgical aesthetic enhancement procedures, Dr. Copeland says they should make sure the doctor they are seeing has met the strict requirements of the American Board of Plastic Surgery and are board certified. He says patients should learn the status of their plastic surgeon’s board-certification prior to undergoing treatment. Due to the popularity of plastic surgery, many doctors may offer liposuction and other treatments even though they may have little to no formal training in these disciplines. Even some dentists have begun to offer non-surgical treatments such as BOTOX® Cosmetic, although it may be entirely unrelated to their primary field.

Dr. Copeland says St Louis Tummy Tuck (abdominoplasty) patients and those considering any kind of plastic surgery should only look to board-certified plastic surgeons to increase the likelihood that the results will ultimately meet their goals.

About Dr. Copeland

Dr. Jeffrey Copeland has been practicing plastic surgery in St. Louis and the surrounding area for more 20 years. He earned his undergraduate and medical degrees at the University of Missouri, where he also completed his general and plastic surgery residencies. He was a chief resident for both residency programs.

Dr. Copeland is past chief of staff at Barnes Jewish St. Peters Hospital, Saint Joseph Health Center and Hospital West and past president of the Missouri Association of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons. He has also been board chairman of Primaris (the Missouri Quality Improvement Organization) and councilor to the Missouri State Medical Association from the 4th district.

Dr. Copeland is a board-certified member of the American Board of Plastic Surgery. He offers a full variety of treatments for the face, breasts, body, and skin at his practice, Copeland Cosmetic Surgery. He has recently added fractional CO2 laser facial rejuvenation and Intense Pulsed Light for treatment of adult acne, rosacea and dark spots to his practice.

Patients can reach Copeland Cosmetic Surgery by phone at 866-377-0288. Dr. Copeland recently moved his practice to a newly renovated, larger, and easier-to-find facility in mid-St. Charles County. His office is now located at #2 Richmond Center Court, St. Peters, Missouri, 63376. www.copelandcosmeticsurgery.com.

via Choosing a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Important for Safe, Beautiful Results.

“We never thought this would happen. We thought he was safe,” said Mrs. Rudie. “Brandon had deep cuts on the left side of his face – to the bone, his ear was severed, and his eye, mouth, and chest were badly injured. His plastic surgeon took tissue from his arm and back to repair his face. It took two months before we could bring Brandon home. Please don’t let your kids near lawn mowers, it’s just not safe.”

Unfortunately, 247,000 people were treated for lawn mower-related injuries last year, more than 18,000 of them children under age 19, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports. Lawn mower-related injuries have increased 7 percent since 2008.

With the summer mowing season approaching, the American Society for Reconstructive Microsurgery (ASRM), American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), American Society of Maxillofacial Surgeons (ASMS), American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), and American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) are working together to prevent injuries and educate adults and children about the importance of lawn mower safety.

“Lawn mower injuries are not only among the most devastating I’ve seen in over 20 years of practice, they are also the most preventable,” said ASRM President Peter Neligan, MD. “When a lawn mower injury happens to a child it is even more devastating because it is invariably due to the inattention of an adult. Don’t let your life or the life of your child be irrevocably changed by a moment of inattention.”

Many lawn mower-related injuries require a team of physicians from various specialties – plastic surgery, microsurgery, maxillofacial surgery, pediatrics, and orthopaedics – to properly repair them. Often, patients must endure painful reconstructive operations for months, sometimes years, to restore form and function.

“Lawn mower injuries often include deep cuts, loss of fingers and toes, limb amputations, broken and dislocated bones, burns, and eye injuries,” said ASPS President Michael McGuire, MD. “Most are caused by careless use and can be prevented by following a few simple safety tips.”

The ASRM, ASPS, ASMS, AAP and AAOS offer the following tips to help prevent lawn mower-related injuries:

“We are pleased to participate, along with other societies in the coalition, for lawn mower injury prevention,” said ASMS President Mimis Cohen, MD. “Children and adults alike present with such devastating injuries that sometimes result in permanent deformities. It is therefore our duty as treating surgeons to educate the public, since prevention is always the form best treatment. ”

Hear, firsthand, Mrs. Rudie and her son’s plastic surgeon, Dr. Robert Whitfield, discuss the life altering effects of lawn mower injuries by downloading their video blog.

The American Society for Reconstructive Microsurgery (ASRM) is an organization of more than 600 surgeons that perform microsurgery and other complex reconstructive surgeries. The ASRM is dedicated to promoting, encouraging and advancing the art and science of microsurgery and other complex reconstructions through education and research. www.microsurg.org

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) is the largest organization of board-certified plastic surgeons in the world. Representing more than 7,000 members, ASPS is a leading authority on cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. ASPS comprises more than 94 percent of all board-certified plastic surgeons in the United States. ASPS Member Surgeons are certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery or The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. www.plasticsurgery.org

The American Society of Maxillofacial Surgeons is the oldest organization representing maxillofacial plastic surgeons. The Society accomplishes its mission to advance the science and practice of surgery of the facial region and the craniofacial skeleton through excellence in education and research, and advocacy on behalf of patients and practitioners. www.maxface.org