Tag Archives: statistics

New face of plastic surgery

Growing number of men seek out cosmetic procedures By Karen Dandurant August 12, 2012 2:00 AM

Cosmetic surgery is no longer merely the realm of Hollywood celebrities, and its potential improvements are not just sought by women.

Procedures being sought by men are now considered mainstream. Doctors say the number of men who seek cosmetic surgery, while still less than women, is growing every year.

According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, in 2011, men received 796,086 cosmetic procedures. while that is slightly less than 10 percent of the figure for women, at 8,398,424, it is still significant.

Statistics released by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons show more men are going under the knife. overall cosmetic plastic surgery procedures in men were up 2 percent in 2010 compared to 2009. however, many male surgical procedures increased significantly. Facelifts for men rose 14 percent in 2010 while male liposuction increased 7 percent.

The 2010 ASPS statistics show the majority of the men’s top 10 fastest-growing cosmetic procedures are surgical, which bucks the previous trend of growth in minimally-invasive treatments.

“The growth in cosmetic surgical procedures for men may be a product of our aging baby boomers that are now ready to have plastic surgery,” said ASPS President Phillip Haeck, M.D. “Minimally-invasive procedures such as Botox and soft-tissue fillers work to a point. however, as you age and gravity takes over, surgical procedures that lift the skin are necessary in order to show significant improvement.”

Local cosmetic surgeons agree with the ASPS, based on the trends they are seeing in their practices.

“I definitely see a lot more men every year,” said Dr. Richard Zeff, M.D., P.A., in Stratham. “We are not all born with perfect bodies. Some come to see me with aesthetic concerns. there is something they want to improve.”

Others come for professional reasons, he said.

“If you are 64 years old and competing with a 40-year-old in the job market it can be intimidating,” he said. “You may feel young and up to the job, but that might not be how you think others perceive you. the men can’t stand that they look much older than they feel, older than they perceive themselves.”

There are two main types of cosmetic adjustments, those requiring surgery and those considered minimally invasive. According to the 2010 ASPS statistics, the top five surgical procedures sought by men are rhinoplasty (nose), eyelids tightening, liposuction, breast reduction and hair transplants. the top five less-invasive procedures are Botox, laser hair removal, microdermabrasion, chemical peels and soft-tissue fillers.

Zeff said he sees a lot of the non-invasive procedure requests.

“It’s more comfortable and there really is no downside,” he said. “Botox lasts three to five months. the tissue fillers are good for about one year.”

Liposuction is a big area of choice for both men and women. Zeff said men seek liposuction for those “love handles” around the waist.

“There is a common misconception that a person who seeks liposuction has failed, or is taking the easy way out when it comes to weight loss,” Zeff said. “Losing weight is great, but you still have the same body. it doesn’t change your fat distribution. if you are pear-shaped; you’ll be a smaller pear shape. if you have a spare tire around your middle, you will be smaller, with a spare tire. A thousand sit-ups a day won’t rid you of fat in those places you are aiming for. Liposuction can change your body shape.”

Men, as they get older, also want gynocomastia, a procedure to reduce the size of their breasts.

“I have men, some who would otherwise appear to be in good shape who come to me and say they haven’t taken their shirt off at the beach in 30 years,” Zeff said. “It’s a terrible embarrassment for them. it is fairly easy to remedy but as a necessity, we will first rule out any possibility of breast cancer.”

In his experience, facials are not as common in men as in women, but spot adjustments are, Zeff said. He does a lot with eyelid surgery for men, either reducing or increasing skin, as needed.

Of course, society and American culture play a large role in requests for cosmetic surgery. Zeff said people buy into the public perception of youth and beauty, men included. That can pose its own ethical quandaries.

“It’s undeniable,” he said. “The cosmetic industry works hard to promote their products. the truly ethical among us have to weigh those requests carefully. Physical enhancement must be ethically reasonable. there is a term, dysmorphia, meaning an attempt to make yourself completely into something you are not. I have seen this in women, but I personally have never seen a case in a male yet.”

Dr. Charles Gaudet of Portsmouth said men now seek cosmetic surgery because they want to look more youthful, more refreshed. and, they also go because it is now more accepted in society.

“Men have more of a comfort level with the procedures now,” Gaudet said. “It’s not just something they see as done in Hollywood or new York City. they know the procedures are available and they are taking advantage of the confidence it gives them. the only real difference I see is that men tend to do this privately, where women are more open to discussing cosmetic surgery with their friends.”

Gaudet said men make up about 10 percent of his practice now. He routinely does eyelid surgery, facial rejuvenations, and liposuction and breast reduction.

“Most of the men I see come in knowing exactly what they want to do,” he said. “They love to engage in discussions about the possibilities but for the most part know what they want and stick to that. they are tired of people saying they look tired. they are tired of looking old for their age.”

Plastic surgeons say another trend they see in male plastic surgery is the type of patient seeking their services.

“Typically, people think of celebrities and high profile men undergoing cosmetic surgery,” said Dr. Stephen Baker, M.D., an ASPS member surgeon based in Washington, D.C. “And while that may be true, the typical male cosmetic surgery patient that I see is an average guy who wants to look as good as he feels. most of my patients are ‘men’s men,’ the kind of guy you might not think would have plastic surgery.”

Baker said baby boomers now reaching retirement age are the new face of the male plastic surgery trend.

“They want to look good. So when they have the financial means to do it, they are ready to do it now,” Baker said.

In fact, one of Baker’s patients is an “average Joe.” Joe recently underwent a facelift and eyelid surgery. the 57-year old said, “I didn’t feel that old. I felt young. I was working out. I was pretty active and I wanted to look like I felt inside.”

Joe also said his girlfriend supported his decision to have plastic surgery.

Fees charged by the members of the surgical team vary depending on the desired cosmetic surgery. the average cost is: liposuction from $2,000, facelift from between $5,000 to $10,000, Botox injections from $300, eyelid surgery from $2,000, nose job from $3,000.

Elective cosmetic surgery, as with any surgical procedure, does have risks as well as benefits.

Ads by Google

New face of plastic surgery

Gastric Sleeve Revision Procedures Increase at Los Angeles Bariatric Surgery Practice – Healthcare Global

LOS ANGELES, CA–(Marketwire – June 7, 2012) – 33% of U.S. adults are considered obese according to the latest statistics from the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS). The study also shows that while 15 million Americans struggle with morbid obesity, less than 1% of those clinically eligible within this population underwent a bariatric procedure in 2009. Despite these numbers, Drs. Marc Lussier and Michael Feiz say they have seen an increase in weight loss procedures such as the gastric sleeve at their practice, and believe this popularity will continue to rise as more patients realize the benefits of such a procedure.

At their Los Angeles weight loss surgery practice, Town Center Surgery, Drs. Lussier and Feiz say the potentially positive impact a bariatric procedure can have on a patient's life is astounding. they cite a recent study from Dartmouth Medical School that has shown bariatric surgery, depending on the severity of the disease, can add three years to a patient's life expectancy. Additionally, Drs. Lussier and Feiz say the gastric sleeve procedure is especially promising, and believe the two-pronged approach to successful weight loss employed with this procedure is the reason for the increase in popularity among patients and surgeons alike.

The gastric sleeve is performed by creating several small incisions to remove a portion of the stomach, and works on two levels: restrictive and hormonal. While the size of the stomach is significantly reduced — nearly 75% is removed — Drs. Lussier and Feiz say one reason the procedure is so effective is because the functionality of the stomach is left intact. “The Gastric Sleeve has an extra advantage because not only does it restrict the portion size, but it also has a second mechanism of action that actually decreases hunger without disrupting the functional aspects of the stomach. it achieves this by reducing the levels of the hunger hormone Ghrelin. This two-pronged approach can often prove helpful for patients that did not reach their weight loss goals with the band alone.”

The second benefit of removing such a large portion of the stomach is the suppression of Ghrelin, the hormone that stimulates hunger. By reducing the size of the stomach, the patient will not only feel fuller faster, but also produce less of the hormone, thereby reducing the amount of food they eat. Dr. Lussier says this is a simple equation: “Less stomach leads to the patient feeling fuller faster, which in turn leads to quicker satiation and less Ghrelin.”

Despite the increase in popularity of the gastric sleeve in Los Angeles, Drs. Lussier and Feiz urge anyone considering weight loss surgery of any type to research all options and consult with a board-certified surgeon. as with any surgical procedure, they stress that weight loss surgery should not be taken lightly, and recommend developing a relationship with a patient's surgeon of choice before making a decision to undergo a procedure. through this type of partnership with an experienced and skilled surgeon, they say patients have a greater chance of reaching their weight loss goals and achieving the new life they desire.

About Marc Lussier, MD, FACS

After earning his medical degree from the University of Minnesota School of Medicine, Dr. Marc Lussier completed his general surgery residency at new York University Medical Center, and his plastic surgery residency at Baylor College of Medicine. he also completed a Hand Microsurgery Fellowship and Postdoctoral Research Fellowship at the University of Southern California School of Medicine. Dr. Lussier is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. he is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, as well as a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.

About Michael Feiz, MD, FACS

After graduating summa cum laude from the University of California Los Angeles, Dr. Michael Feiz earned his medical degree with honors from the new York Medical College. he then completed an internship and residency at the Los Angeles County/USC Medical Center, where he trained in a specialized Fellowship in Bariatric and Minimally Invasive Surgery at Cedar Sinai Medical Center. Dr. Feiz is a member of the American Society for Bariatric Surgeons, the American College of Surgeons, and the Society of American Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Surgeons.

Town Center Surgery is located at 24510 Town Center Drive, Ste. 180, Valencia, CA, and can be reached at (661) 260-3021. Drs. Lussier and Feiz can also be reached via their website towncentersurgeryweightloss.com, lussiermd.com, or the Los Angeles Weight Loss Surgery Facebook page.

Gastric Sleeve Revision Procedures Increase at Los Angeles Bariatric Surgery Practice – Healthcare Global

New Breast Implant Sizing System Available at Atlanta Plastic Surgery Practice – Healthcare Global

ATLANTA, GA–(Marketwire – June 6, 2012) –  Dr. Thomas Lintner, a plastic surgeon in Atlanta, has recently announced the addition of a new volume-sizing system from breast implant manufacturer Mentor®. Designed to help patients looking for breast augmentation in Atlanta find the right size for their goals, the new Mentor® Volume Sizing system will be available at both of Dr. Lintner's office locations in Marietta and Woodstock. he says he is excited about the new products because they offer patients a chance to get a feel for both the projection and the weight of silicone breast implants.

At his practice, Advanced Aesthetic Surgery, Dr. Lintner focuses on a wide variety of cosmetic procedures ranging from facelifts and BOTOX® Cosmetic to liposuction and mommy makeovers. recent statistics show that, amongst patients, dissatisfaction with the size of breast implants chosen is as high as 37%[1]. he says offering the new Mentor® Volume Sizing system allows patients a more tangible look at the type of results they can expect from breast implants in Atlanta, which can ultimately improve their pre-operative decision and their aesthetic outcome. Dr. Lintner says the unique shape fits over the patient's natural breast and is available in a number of volume options between 150cc and 775cc.

Equipped with the new sizers, Dr. Lintner says patients will also be able to improve and expedite the consultation process by providing a realistic preview of the breast size. he says the result is a much higher satisfaction rate amongst his patients because they now can make sizing decisions during the consult, rather than having to schedule a second nurse visit to size the breast using an older and less efficient method. “I am very confident in Mentor's ability to continue making an exceptional product and I'm very glad to offer this option for sizing to our patients,” says Dr. Lintner.

While the Mentor® sizers are a beneficial tool for helping patients choose the proper size implant, Dr. Lintner says the most important indicator of a successful outcome is the plastic surgeon's ability and experience in performing the breast augmentation procedure. he says the ultimate choice of size or implant style should be made in the operating room using the patient's anatomy, sizers, chest dimensions and the board-certified surgeon's judgment. As with any medical procedure, Dr. Lintner suggests patients conduct extensive research before settling on a practice for their treatment. through the expertise and surgical advice of a skilled plastic surgeon, he says patients have the opportunity to achieve a proportionate, beautiful result that can enhance their appearance and self-confidence.

“I feel the new sizing system from Mentor will help communicate expectations between a prospective patient and myself and my staff. Clearer understanding of the weight and feel of any given size implant will help patients be happier with their post-surgical result,” says Dr. Lintner.

[1] “Saline-Filled Breast Implant Surgery: making an Informed Decision” January 2004, Accessed 5/23/12

About Thomas B. Lintner, MD, FACS

An honors graduate of Georgetown University, Dr. Thomas Lintner earned his medical degree from Emory University School of Medicine, where he also completed his general surgery and plastic surgery residency programs. he is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, and a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and several other professional organizations. Published in several articles and national journals of medicine and surgery, Dr. Lintner currently serves as an active member on staff at Wellstar Kennestone Hospital in the ER Services and Medical Staff Credentialing Committees.

Advanced Aesthetic Surgery has two locations, both reachable at (770) 771-5151: 711 Canton Road Suite 400 in Marietta, GA, and 120 N. Medical Parkway Suite 200 in Woodstock, GA. It can also be contacted online via the websites tomlintnermd.com, atlantamommymakeover.com, or the Advanced Aesthetic Surgery Facebook page.

New Breast Implant Sizing System Available at Atlanta Plastic Surgery Practice – Healthcare Global

Number of Males Seeking Plastic Surgery Continuing to Increase

Beverly Hills facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Carlo Honrado, discusses growing trends among males seeking cosmetic plastic surgery procedures.

Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) June 29, 2012

A new report was released by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) that revealed more men are going under the knife for plastic surgery than ever before. According to the report, overall cosmetic plastic surgery procedures among men were up 2% in 2010 compared to 2009, with facelifts for men increasing by an incredible 14% in 2010.

These new statistics may be shocking to some, but for La Peer Health Systems facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Carlo Honrado, it comes as no surprise. For years women have taken advantage of the benefits that plastic surgery can offer, and now men are discovering that there is nothing wrong with a little Botox or a browlift. many of Dr. Honrado’s male patients have undergone chin surgery, eye surgery and, more recently, non-surgical treatments like fillers and Botox. “Many of the male patients that come into my office are average men that just want to look as good as they possibly can. they are realizing plastic surgery is no longer just for women and that they can achieve masculine results,” explains Dr. Honrado.

Many may think that the men who are undergoing plastic surgery must be high profile celebrities that have a certain appearance to maintain, and although that may be true for some, it isn’t for all. People are living longer than before, and if they have the financial means, many men are taking advantage of their anti-aging options. many men want to look just as good as they feel and the new report by ASPS supports this. Dr. Carlo Honrado is a Beverly Hills facial plastic surgeon that is committed to his patient’s comfort, satisfaction and results. He offers an array of comprehensive facial cosmetic surgeries having to do with the eyes, nose, face, head and neck. He is double board-certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and by the American Board of Otolaryngology. La Peer Health Systems is located in Beverly Hills in Los Angeles County and focuses on excellent patient care with 42 doctors across 13 departments. What makes La Peer’s plastic surgery department different from others is that our surgeons are facial plastic surgeons. This means they only do surgery on the head and neck, and have a great deal of experience with facial reconstruction as well as cosmetic procedures. La Peer offers comprehensive and widespread medical treatments for all patients. More information about La Peer Health Systems and Dr. Carlo Honrado can be found at http://www.LaPeerHealth.com

For the original version on PRWeb visit: http://www.prweb.com/releases/prwebmale-plastic-surgery/beverly-hills/prweb9653684.htm

Number of Males Seeking Plastic Surgery Continuing to Increase

Revision Rhinoplasty: Fixing A Bad Nose Job

Many patients opt to undergo rhinoplasty (cosmetic nasal surgery) to achieve a more natural-looking appearance of the nose. In fact, rhinoplasty is one of the most frequently performed cosmetic procedures today. But what happens when rhinoplasty goes wrong? Revision rhinoplasty, or a do-over, can correct problems resulting from prior rhinoplasty procedures. It can reshape and/or restore the altered nasal framework, to improve facial harmony and draw attention away from the nose.

Recent statistics from the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery indicate that approximately 150,000 rhinoplasties are performed each year in the U.S. According to the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, there are around 40,000 do-overs on an annual basis.

Why so many? Two of the main reasons patients undergo revision rhinoplasty are aesthetic (they’re dissatisfied with the way the nose looks), or functional (their breathing is affected by the surgery.) these two problems commonly go hand-in-hand, because the size and shape of the nose is closely related to its functional ability.

With revision rhinoplasty, surgeons refine the size and shape of the nose with one of two approaches: the endonasal (closed) approach or the external (open) approach.

With the closed approach, all of the incisions are made on the inside of the nose, and the surgeon manipulates the nasal framework from within. the open approach involves a very small, 3-millimeters-long incision on the bottom of the nose, between the skin of the nostrils. the incision is made so that it is unnoticeable. the open approach can allow the surgeon to better visualize the procedure and enhanced access to the nasal framework. the approach utilized should vary based which one can give the best possible result.

During revision rhinoplasty, the nose’s underlying cartilage and bone is sculpted. Frequently, cartilage grafts are used to re-build and re-enforce an over-operated nose, which is the result of removing too much cartilage. In many cases, cartilage is harvested from the septum, eliminating the need for any other incisions. when the septum is unavailable, cartilage can be taken from the inside of the ear. In the most severe cases, a small portion of rib cartilage can be harvested to reconstruct the nose.

Other procedures such as a chin augmentation can be combined with revision rhinoplasty to achieve further facial enhancement.

On average, the revision rhinoplasty procedure lasts between 1 to three hours. It can be performed in an outpatient facility or hospital. Most patients go home comfortably after the procedure, and return to work after one week. Most resume full activities after 10 days. Activities which risk bumping or traumatizing the nose should be limited for four to six weeks.

Most patients feel remarkably well immediately after the procedure, and have minimal pain. This can be alleviated with a mild narcotic. In some cases, bruising around the eyes may occur, which can be camouflaged.

Given the unpredictability of the nose and the fluctuating nature of the procedure, many plastic surgeons feel that revision rhinoplasty is best left to the few who specialize in it. every case is different. Therefore, it’s important to work with a highly qualified, experienced, and specialized physician when considering revision rhinoplasty, or any other plastic surgery procedure.

Revision Rhinoplasty: Fixing A Bad Nose Job

Coralville Courier: Good plastic surgery, bad plastic surgery

Like it or not, plastic surgery is here to stay.

Sure, some people will tout the virtues of self-acceptance and aging gracefully and lament that the rise of cosmetic procedures (including fillers, Botox and the like) signifies the swift decline of civilization. but in reality, as long as people see a benefit — be it in their work, personal or sex lives — from looking younger or correcting perceived flaws, plastic surgery will continue to be a solution. According to statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, 13,828,726 cosmetic procedures — including the minimally invasive as well as the surgical — were done in the U.S. last year. That's a 5% increase over 2010.

Read on….  http://www.latimes.com/features/image/la-ig-plastic-surgery-tips-20120415,0,6320324.story?track=rss

Coralville Courier: Good plastic surgery, bad plastic surgery

Plastic Surgery Increasingly is a Couples Activity « Miami Plastic Surgery Blog- Bal Harbour Plastic Surgery

Plastic surgery is no longer a just solution for women! Men are becoming more confident and more willing to undergo a procedure as society is now more accepting and tolerant of male cosmetic procedures. this is leading to an increase in couples are getting plastic surgery together.

When one partner gets work done, the other partner is more likely to be interested in getting plastic surgery for themselves (especially when they see the results). A lot of men want to “keep up” with their wives and their new and improved look. Although neither the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery nor the American Society of Plastic Surgery keeps statistics on “couples procedures” representatives for both groups say there is evidence that more couples are having cosmetic surgery together.

Male Plastic Surgery is a Growing Trend

Men now account for 9% of the total amount of plastic surgeries (it’s about time the men started catching up)! this trend is likely being fueled by the fact that more men are getting plastic surgery after their wife has had a successful procedure. When the wife comes in to get work done and is pleased with the outcome, the husband will feel more confident and be more likely to be interested and ask questions about surgery for himself.

One of the most common procedures is Lipoplasty is enormously popular for both men and women. In 2011, more than 300,000 lipoplastys were performed in the United States alone. this surpasses breast augmentation as the most popular cosmetic surgical procedure for the first time since 2008, according to the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. the most common areas of men’s lipoplasty are the abdomen, chest and chin. These men are trying to increase their manly/macho parts while woman are more likely to get the procedure done in multiple areas of the body which highlight their feminine features.

Anti Aging Procedures Are becoming Increasingly Popular

According to the ASAPS, the top anti-aging cosmetic surgical procedures for women are tummy tucks and cosmetic eyelid surgeries. For men, it’s eyelid surgery and gynecomastia, also known as male breast reduction. Girls are usually looking to get bigger breasts and men are typically looking to get theirs reduced. how ironic.

These “couples” procedures are not typically done on young couples and the statistics show that most doctors have seen an incline in couples plastic surgery with clients in their late 30s to early 60s. the women are typically done having children, and both members of the couple are unable (or unwilling!) to lose weight through diet and exercise.

Looking beautiful as You Age:

With these new developing procedures and the increased acceptance of cosmetic surgery for men couples are now looking younger and more beautiful than ever. Couples can now keep their youthful appearance and  rather than simply accepting “growing old together.” this is a great way to keep a relationship exciting, sexy and beautiful while giving couples something to look forward too in terms of their appearance. If you are interested in a procedure for you or your significant other please do not hesitate to call us at 305 – 861 – 8266

Plastic Surgery Increasingly is a Couples Activity « Miami Plastic Surgery Blog- Bal Harbour Plastic Surgery

Is Plastic Surgery Really for You?

Americans are seeking cosmetic surgery in record numbers. Statistics reveal its popularity among all races and between genders. but such procedures are still elective…

It has been said that Americans are obsessed with youth. Judging from their collective love affair with plastic surgeons, there may be some truth to that claim. Nearly 12 million cosmetic procedures, both surgical and non-surgical, were performed in the United States last year.

Cosmetic Surgery Growing in Popularity

According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the number of such procedures has increased almost 460% since 1997. The most frequently performed procedure in 2007 was Botox injection, while liposuction was the most popular cosmetic surgery among all patients (among women alone, breast augmentation was the most common surgery).

Aesthetic Society president Foad Nahai, MD, reports that cosmetic surgery is not defined by race or gender; indeed, athough women accounted for 91% of all cosmetic procedures, those performed on men increased 17% since the previous year, and 22% of the aesthetic procedures were performed on patients who are members of traditional ethnic and racial minorities.

In general, Americans (56% of men and 57% of women) approve of cosmetic surgery; 31% of women and 20% of men would consider cosmetic surgery for themselves in the future. 78% and 79% of men and women, respectively, would not be embarrassed if they had plastic surgery and people outside their families knew about it.

Cosmetic Surgery Is a Burgeoning Industry

Americans spent over $13 billion on cosmetic procedures last year. this figure includes physician and surgeon fees, but excludes the costs of anesthesia, surgical facilities, medical tests, gowns, prescriptions, and other incidental costs. Insurance only paid for a fraction of these costs, as relatively few procedures are covered by insurance.

One might surmise that aging baby boomers are behind the increase in demand for cosmetic surgery. After all, this segment of society has been attributed with a penchant for youthful appearance, and they are presumably responsible—due to a corresponding desire to preserve their vitality—for an upsurge in the growth of alternative medical therapies. Interestingly, however, people from 51 to 64 years of age account for only 25% of all cosmetic procedures performed. Individuals aged 19 to 50 years made up 69% of the total.

Cosmetic Surgery Has its Risks

Complications arising from cosmetic surgery—including, rarely, death—reportedly occur at a rate less than ½ of one percent. this translates to approximately 60,000 adverse events annually for procedures that are, in the main, elective. Considering that relatively young people account for the majority of procedures performed, and that some complications lead to chronic problems (unacceptable scars, inflammatory reactions from implants, pain, tissue contractures) it seems prudent for any prospective surgical candidate to do some homework before submitting to a cosmetic procedure:

  • Is the surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery? Call the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (1-888-4PLASTIC) or visit www.plasticsurgery.org if the surgeon isn’t specific about his/her qualifications.
  • How long has the surgeon been performing the procedure in question? how many times in an average year does the surgeon do this procedure?
  • Ask to see “before” and “after” photographs. also, in spite of confidentiality issues, it’s reasonable to ask to speak with a surgeon’s prior clients.
  • Check on the certification level of any outpatient surgical center where the procedure will be performed. If the facility isn’t certified by Medicare and the state licensing board or an equivalent accreditation body, be cautious.
  • Who will actually perform the surgery and follow-up care? it isn’t uncommon, particularly in teaching hospitals, for a physician-in-training to perform a procedure, even though an experienced surgeon is present at the initial consultation.
  • Finally, ask about payment options. since insurance does not cover most cosmetic procedures, many patients need to pay in installments or with a credit card.

Is Plastic Surgery Really for You?

Couples Plastic Surgery Increasing Trend « Nipntuck Blog

Couples seeking anti-aging rejuvenation and undergoing cosmetic surgery together represents a growing trend.  While the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons doesn’t keep specific statistics regarding couples, they confirm that there is anecdotal evidence suggesting that more couples are having cosmetic surgery together.  This current trend is consistent with the increase of cosmetic procedures performed on men, who now account for almost 10% of the total.

Last week, John Glionna wrote an article for the Los Angeles Times, where he offers a first-hand account about his own experience with cosmetic surgery.  He laments about being prone to having saggy bags under his eyes and his wife bringing it to his attention.  Glionna creatively describes these eye bags as “making you look like some punch-drunk boxer who’s gone too many rounds.”  It is true that the puffy dark circles can make you look older than your age and appear tired and weary, even when you are well-rested.

Men are usually prompted to consider cosmetic surgery by their wives or when they accompany their wives to her plastic surgeon’s office.  This might help to break the ice and for men feel more comfortable to discuss a little nipntuck for themselves.  I have seen a gradual increase in men embracing the notion of undergoing cosmetic surgery.  Statistics indicate that 23,000 men had eyelid surgeries last year to help shave a few years off of their tired appearance.  it is second only to liposuction among popularity with male patients.  I have seen a spike in both of these procedures within my own practice.

Read more: Trophy Husbands

Couples Plastic Surgery Increasing Trend « Nipntuck Blog

North Carolina Plastic Surgeon Quickens Recovery Time for Breast Augmentation – Healthcare Global

KINSTON, NC–(Marketwire – May 23, 2012) –  With the most recent statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) reporting that breast augmentation is the most popular cosmetic surgical procedure performed over the past two years, demand for the safest, most effective techniques with the best results has become an increasingly important emphasis from patients. Dr. Richard Cummings, a plastic surgeon in North Carolina, says an innovative technique he has employed at his practice is helping patients achieve a quicker recovery time as well. Dr. Cummings says many of his patients request this approach because it allows them to get back to their daily routines such as shopping, school, or work within a day or two.

At his North Carolina plastic surgery practice, Dr. Cummings has performed close to 7,000 breast augmentation procedures using the technique he calls the “Rapid Recovery” approach. Developed by a plastic surgeon in Dallas, the approach utilizes minimal incisions and early post-op motion to reduce the amount of recovery time required for patients to return to normal activities. he says his patients are driving their cars on the day after their surgery. Additionally, Dr. Cummings says taking a customized approach to each patient's particular needs helps him work with their body to find the right treatment plan that will adapt best to their situation and promote a quicker, safer, and more efficient recovery.

Over the past ten years, Dr. Cummings says his unique approach to breast augmentation in North Carolina has allowed patients to get back to their daily lives in a matter of days. he says he tells patients they should experience some soreness following the procedure, but this usually dissipates a few days following the procedure. he says his patients can go out to dinner with their families the night of the procedure, can often go shopping the next day, and are back to work or school two days later: “Time is money for everyone nowadays. no one has time to lie around at home anymore.”

Dr. Cummings says he is excited about the latest developments in plastic surgery procedures like the Rapid Recovery approach to breast augmentation and looks forward to the future of aesthetic enhancements as researchers and medical professionals continue to pursue perfection in techniques and results. With the increase in popularity and approval of cosmetic surgery, he says patients now have a host of innovative technology at their fingertips for enhancing their appearance and improving confidence. however, Dr. Cummings does stress the importance of making sure one's surgeon has extensive experience in performing breast augmentation procedures before choosing a breast augmentation surgeon.

About Richard E. Cummings, MD

A graduate of the University of Miami School of Medicine, Dr. Richard Cummings completed his internship and general surgery residency at Jackson Memorial Hospital, Mount Sinai Medical Center, and the Miami V.a. Hospital. he completed his plastic surgery residency at Cook County Hospital, Children's Memorial Hospital, the Hines V.a. Hospital, and at Loyola University Medical Center in Chicago. Dr. Cummings has been certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and serves as the Chief of the Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Lenoir Memorial Hospital. he has performed over 7,000 breast augmentation procedures in his more than 30 years of experience as a plastic surgeon.

Located at 5080 Hwy 70 West in Kinston, NC, Dr. Cummings' practice can be reached at (252) 523-7082 or at (800) 682-2662. he can also be contacted online via the websites northcarolinabreast.com, cummingsplastic.com, or the Cummings Plastic Surgery Facebook page.

North Carolina Plastic Surgeon Quickens Recovery Time for Breast Augmentation – Healthcare Global