News from Westlake Plastic Surgery

Volume 6

Breast Revision: the next revolution in Breast Enhancement

Breast augmentation continues to be in great demand. The new “fifth generation” silicone implants have performed beautifully; patients know this, so word-of-mouth recommendations have created quite a buzz. Now is a great time to consider a breast enhancement, whether it is your first procedure, or you have had a previous enhancement and you’re looking to spruce up your results!

Breast revision refers to procedures performed on breasts that have had a previous enhancement. This might be a “breast lift” after a previous augmentation, or the correction of a breast asymmetry or contracture process that developed decades after an initial augmentation. Sometimes implants have “slipped” from where they used to be. In my practice, half of my breast enhancement patients are seen for a breast revision. It is one of my areas of surgical expertise and professional interest. Patients have traveled from all over the country for my services, particularly my very own “BAR” procedure (Breast Augmentation and Reduction).

Since it is estimated that over three million women have breast implants, certainly there are a good number of them who would benefit from a revision, or “redo”. These women know who they are; just a glance in the mirror reminds them of how much they have changed since their initial enhancement. Some women simply have been very busy with life, and a revision procedure hasn’t been a high priority.

Breast revision procedures run the gamut, from minor to complex, depending on the issues at hand. Maybe it’s time to change out your 20 year old implants, or maybe you’re ready for smaller implants (hard to know what you were thinking when you originally chose that size!). For others, it’s time to change those fuller, saggy breasts for a “higher, tighter and perkier” version.

If you are considering a Breast Revision, please take a moment and visit my highly acclaimed website www.westlakeplasticsurgery.com and look under TheBreastPlace or the Breast Revision Academy (BRA) to learn more about your options.

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What’s the latest and greatest in Plastic Surgery?

People are by nature attracted to the newest and the latest because of the technological society that we live in—every computer and Smartphone is more powerful and faster than the one before. Cars seem to come standard with features that were once high priced options.

So what’s “hot” in plastic surgery? Instead of expensive, yearly treatments, the trend now is clearly for procedures that make a difference (non-surgical alternatives didn’t quite live up to their promise). And people don’t prefer the “operated look.” The demand is for plastic surgery that produces natural appearing results that last.

If plastic surgery is done well, others will actually have a hard time noticing anything, even though there is a BIG difference!

Take my recent case of a 46 year-old woman with a very full neck and a “turkey gobbler.” I enhanced her appearance with a full neck lift. She is no longer burdened by an unflattering neck. She appears 15 years younger, and her result is very natural looking. Her neck is less full, she has a youthful jaw line and the turkey has moved on. She likes her profile view seen in photos for the first time in years!

Her close friends and family notice the improvement, but most others don’t. Why is it that the casual observer doesn’t notice a difference? If plastic surgery results appear harmonious and natural or “non-operated,” the average human eye accepts these big differences as if they have always been present! The psychology of plastic surgery is quite fascinating indeed.

The creation of beautiful, natural looking plastic surgery is like art. Superb surgeons have that ability to transform and enhance like no others. The “new” plastic surgery is simply plastic surgery done well, like you like! It offers the precise combination of surgical and non-surgical alternatives that produce the results you desire. Did she or didn’t she have plastic surgery? No one really noticed. If you hear this about your results, you’re probably sitting pretty.

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The Latest Gimmick – Surgery without Anesthesia

There was a recent article in The New York Times about patients being awake during their breast augmentation procedure and actually being able to choose their implant size in the operating room! This has been a similar theme for liposuction and face lifting procedures as well.

Frequently, patients have an innate fear of anesthesia. They believe anesthesia is associated with risk, and they don’t like the idea of “losing control.” There is a primal fear of “not waking up.” In actuality, anesthesia provided by skilled anesthesiologists is quite safe and reliable. I haven’t had an issue with anesthesia in over 25 years in practice—none.

My partner is Dr. Diane Keeler-Boysen, my full time board certified Anesthesiologist, who has a perfect track record over the ten years that she has worked with me. We offer patients the choice of anesthesia that is appropriate for the level of service that they select. We do not attempt to attract patients to our practice by leading them to believe that all surgery can be performed under local anesthesia. Some procedures can be performed with minimal anesthesia, while others need the benefit of stress free, painless surgery.

So who is offering this “awake” surgery, anyway? The New York Times article is about an “Obstetrician and Gynecologist, by training” who “advocates local anesthesia and sedation for aesthetic surgeries like breast augmentations.” The article discussed the “weekend courses” that obstetricians and family practitioners take to learn how to do cosmetic procedures with local anesthesia and sedation.

Holy smokes! So, this whole idea is being promoted by untrained, unqualified doctors that are not plastic surgeons (other than what they learned in a weekend course)! If this doesn’t make the hairs stand up on the back of your neck, I don’t know what will. These doctors can’t provide cosmetic services in a hospital, or an accredited facility, because it is not their area of specialty. The only option left is the “back room,” without the services of an anesthesiologist.

Don’t put yourself at risk because of marketing gimmicks. Always seek plastic surgery services from a reputable, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon. Modern day anesthesia is a great way to fly.

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Who is a bra expert?

I never thought that I would become so knowledgeable about bras, being the man that I am. But since my chosen profession is a plastic surgeon, 90 percent of my patients are women, and one of my areas of expertise is breast enhancement, it only seems fitting that I know a lot about bras.

Are you aware that 85 percent of women wear the incorrect bra size? Have you ever heard of a “working bra?” How important can a bra be anyway?

A bra is a big deal, because a properly fitting bra can enhance your figure tremendously. It will actually work to support your breasts so they don’t sag over time.

The importance of a proper fitting bra is even more critical after a breast enhancement. The best way to preserve your shape and ensure long lasting results is to wear a bra day and night more often than not.

The cup of your bra will help support and shape your breast. The underwire offers support and acts as a barrier to movement of the breast implant, inferiorly and downward, as a response to gravity. Click here to see the features of an ideal breast augmentation bra.

Patients who get professionally measured will be shocked by their new bra size. The new C is actually a DD in most cases! Most patients wear a band width that is too large, making the cup size correspondingly smaller. Initially, your new bra may seem pretty snug but it will loosen and become more comfortable over time. This “working bra” actually supports your breasts and isn’t simply a window dressing!

Protect your investment. At Westlake Plastic Surgery, we recommend that you visit the lingerie section at Petticoat Fair, Nordstrom’s or Dillard’s to find that perfect bra.

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Ask the Expert: Robert Caridi M.D.

“I already have implants, but I am concerned with how I can feel them through my skin, and that they are too big. I also think they have slipped from their original position.”

This is a wonderful quote from a patient who emailed me recently. Most people are aware of my breast expertise and my reputation for telling it like it is. Almost 40 percent of my breast practice is secondary breast procedures, or alterations/modifications to work done previously.

This case scenario illustrates several important issues related to the breast enhancement process. If your implants are too big for your size, they will stretch your skin and become more palpable. In addition, gravity will displace a larger implant, laterally and downwards. Not wearing an excellent supportive bra will allow this process to go unchecked, resulting in a compromised result.

Westlake Plastic Surgery specializes in breast revision procedures. Of the three to four million women who have had a breast enhancement, I would guess that at least half of them could benefit from an improvement in their result with a breast revision. In the case above, this patient would benefit from smaller silicone implants and a pocket adjustment to situate the implants where they look their best. In addition, all my patients are educated on the benefits of an appropriate, supportive “working bra,” to ensure long-term, beautiful results.

You might consider a consultation if you have had a previous breast enhancement and you are not completely satisfied with your results. Take a moment to visit my website and look under TheBreastPlace or the Breast Revision Academy (BRA) to learn more.

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Volume 5

“Survey Says” : Advice from Dr. Gregg E. Ueckert

The survey, conducted by Roper Public Affairs, of more than 1,000 American adults (aged 18 and over) found that 84% agree that healthy straight teeth are a sexy physical feature. 82% of Americans say straight teeth make a person look healthier. More than eight in ten (83%) adults think straight teeth make a person look more confident.

Sure, we all know that a smile can give you confidence. It can make you more outgoing and capable of doing things you were afraid to do before. It is the simplest way to express self confidence and presence, enabling us to pave our path to success.

Dr. Caridi specializes in creating just such confidence in his clients by performing many different kinds of rejuvenating procedures every day. His work is comprehensive, from head to toe, and it is all done to focus more attention on you. What he is creating is a beautiful picture for the outside world to view, and for you to flaunt. So, when people look at you, what do you think they tend to look at first? It’s your eyes, your smile, and the intangible self confidence you exude. Your face is made to frame, and draw attention to your eyes and your smile, much like a beautiful frame enhances a beautiful painting.

Your Facelift, Rhinoplasty, Botox, Collagen, Restylane all enhance the frame, so don’t forget to look at your teeth. Miraculous things can be done today in the field of Cosmetic Dentistry. Dr. Caridi may recommend that you see a cosmetic dentist to complement the excellent work that he is doing for you. Remember it’s all about the big picture and the beautiful frame, so don’t be afraid. You only have confidence to gain!

Sincerely,
Dr. Gregg E. Ueckert

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No One’s Hot with a Muffin Top!

Most people are familiar with the expression “muffin top.” It’s that bulge of fat that hangs over your waist when you’re wearing your favorite jeans. Sometimes, diet and exercise can help reduce this problem area, but sometimes not, in which case you may be a good candidate for a liposuction of this area or a “muffin-top-ectomy!”

Liposuction continues to be one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures performed today, right along with breast enhancement. In my hands, liposuction is a safe and reliable procedure, with very high patient satisfaction.

Be aware of those marketing “the latest and greatest liposuction” techniques. My advice is to choose your surgeon, not the liposuction technique. Despite what you hear from the media, there is no proven benefit from these new techniques. In fact, the chance for an unsatisfactory outcome is greater when you choose a liposuction technique that sounds too good to be true. Oftentimes, these are marketing gimmicks, and the providers of these services are less than experienced, sometimes even unqualified.

Take a moment to read my article on liposuction that can be found on the Advanced Education tab on my website: www.westlakeplasticsurgery.com

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Fun in the Sun!

A sunburn is considered to be sun damage. Sun exposed skin will develop age spots over time, become loose and wrinkled, and basically look unattractive and old. More importantly, the sun’s rays can cause skin cancer, typically basal or squamous cell cancer or even worse, melanoma.

It’s important to wear adequate sunscreen and apply it frequently. SPF (Sun Protection Factor) 30 works well to block most of the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun. Sunscreens that contain Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide are the most protective sunscreens available today. A cotton T-shirt offers about a SPF of 6, so don’t rely on clothing, alone.

If you have children, teach them to wear sunscreen every time they play outside or in the pool. Tanning is not “cool!” Wear a hat that protects your face, nose, and ears from the harmful effects of the sun. Remember, especially in the hot summer sun, you must wear sunscreen! Use a lot, and use it often!

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10 Things You Need to Know When Considering Plastic Surgery

Plastic surgery can be absolutely wonderful and life-changing, but it’s not for everyone.
Risk-free, minimalist, “mini,” non-surgical plastic surgery services generally are not risk-free, offer very little “improvement,” and can be quite expensive and disappointing. Less is often not more. Less is often less.
Spend your time finding the right doctor for your needs. It never hurts to get a second opinion.
“Professional medical services” means that knowledgeable doctors and nurses surround you. Anything less is a gamble with your health and welfare. If you are being educated by an experienced youngster, I suggest you move on.
During your consultation, if your doctor asks you more questions than you ask of him/her, it’s probably a good thing.
You get what you pay for. Don’t skimp with plastic surgery. You are too important!
Practice makes perfect. The more often your surgeon performs a particular procedure, the greater the likelihood that it will be done well.
Austin has top-notch plastic surgeons. There is no reason why you would need to travel out of town for a cosmetic procedure.
Fear of anesthesia is unwarranted. Learn more about it so you are comfortable. Pain-free, comfortable surgery means adequate anesthesia.
Happy, realistic patients benefit most from plastic surgery!

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Medical Tourism: “Should I consider traveling out of the country for plastic surgery?”

There has been an increase in the amount of people who have traveled abroad for plastic surgery. The question on everyone’s mind is whether or not this is a good idea. Although there are very good surgeons to be found in countries other than our own, I wouldn’t recommend traveling abroad for plastic surgery for several reasons.

First, I wouldn’t look at plastic surgery as a commodity, like toothpaste. It’s a service, and a serious one, at that! I would only travel to a physician, whom you are very familiar with and trust implicitly. Although it may sound attractive, in terms of cost and recovery surroundings, there is probably a good reason why it is cheaper. Plastic surgery is not an area that you want to go cheap. You get what you pay for.

Second, what if something goes wrong? How will your care be handled, far from your home and your family? Do you trust that you will get high quality care that you can receive in the United States? How will you follow up? What if you need additional treatments to achieve the best result?

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons makes the following recommendations:

“Cosmetic surgery tourism is a price-driven phenomenon that has experienced increased growth over the past decade. Numerous companies offering all-inclusive vacation packages that include cosmetic surgery are popping up all over the world and can be easily located via the Internet. The offers generally include private hospital services and tout “highly trained” and “credentialed” medical staff. Since elective cosmetic surgery procedures are not covered by insurance, price is the major selling point of cosmetic surgery tourism, with entire vacation/surgical packages costing less than individual procedures in the United States.

Although there are many skilled and qualified physicians practicing all over world, the ASPS cautions that it may be difficult to assess the training and credentials of surgeons outside of the United States. Patients may take unnecessary risks, when choosing cosmetic surgery vacations, by unknowingly selecting unqualified physicians and having procedures performed in non-accredited surgical facilities. The ASPS urges patients to consider the potential complications, unsatisfactory results, and risks to general health that may occur.”

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Volume 4

Advice from Tony Franza

Just as every work of art is enriched by the perfect frame, a customized structural hair design is the ideal compliment to any facial cosmetic enhancement.

Hair design has always played an integral part in the world of cosmetic surgery. After the “healing process,” comes the time to catapult yourself into a fantastic new look, which both enhances your face, as well as creating a diversion of focus. Having the correct color, shape, and unique style for your face puts all the elements together to make your features their optimal best. Remember, it is the total package that makes the greatest impact!

For more on Tony Franza, please visit www.TonyFranza.com

Tony Hair Design
www.TonyFranza.com
(512) 497-8552

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Do Your Homework

We all know how wonderful the Internet is in helping us to find information about whatever it is we are interested in. I want you to learn about the fascinating world of plastic surgery, and I encourage you to spend time on my website.

Westlakeplasticsurgery.com has been designed, by me, with YOU in mind. My web content is educational, honest, reliable, and current. Many, who have spent time on my website, have told me how comprehensive they think it is, especially compared to other websites.

The photographs and case studies are real world examples of my work. The comments provide you with some background by which to judge the outcome of the procedures offered at Westlake Plastic Surgery. These resources will help you to put everything into perspective. I want you to choose the best service for your particular need, and I want you to be safe.

A special thanks to all of my patients who have permitted their photos and case histories to be used on my website for educational purposes! I would appreciate any feedback you might have, so I can continue to make improvements that will benefit others.

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Too Good To Be True!

Truth be told, over the counter products are not regulated like prescription products, and there is no evidence that they work. Although they may sound wonderful, you are spending a lot of money on wishful thinking. It sure would be nice to have a cream or ointment that would take away all my hard-earned wrinkles; but, like my mother always said, “If it’s too good to be true, it probably isn’t!”

There is hope, though. There are certainly some prescription products that work quite well. For instance, we carry the Obagi line of medical-grade skin care products, in my office, and I have been amazed at just how powerful they are. Also, my patients have been very pleased with the dramatic improvement in the appearance of their skin.

So, if you are tired of spending lots of money on products with minimal results, maybe now is the time to consider prescription-strength skin care products, with clear-as-day benefits and a proven track record.

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Fuller Lips

Ideal lips are full, shapely, and sexy. It’s no wonder that for many years, plastic surgeons and patients have been interested in finding just the right solution for thin lips. So, what are the latest alternatives for lip enhancement?

Lip injections consist of substances placed into the lips, with a needle, to increase volume, and possibly “shape” the lips. Injectable silicone was used years ago, but unfortunately resulted in significant complications, that were difficult to treat. DO NOT ALLOW ANYONE TO INJECT SILICONE INTO YOUR LIPS. Collagen is still used, but it is very short lasting and requires frequent trips to your plastic surgeon to boost them up.

The newer fillers (Restylane, Sculptra, Radiesse), that are man-made substances and are similar to natural human tissue, have fared better with longer lasting results and minimal side effects. In effect, they are as beneficial as collagen, and they last much longer.

Implants can offer a more permanent alternative. One of the latest implants (Permalip) seems to be quite different from the others because it is very soft and pliable, and it doesn’t react with the lip tissue. It is quite natural feeling, bends easily, and can be placed into the lips with a simple procedure. Probably one of the best attributes of these implants is that they can easily be removed, if need be.

A small incision is made in the corners of the mouth, and the implants are inserted into the lips. They vary in size, depending on the dimensions of your lips. The procedure lasts about twenty minutes and can be performed under local anesthesia. Swelling and bruising are mild to moderate and can last for a few days, making the recovery time quite brief.

If you are interested in learning more about the Permalift facial implant, you can visit their website at www.SurgiSil.com, or call my office at 512-732-0732 to speak with my very knowledgeable staff.

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Does it hurt? Dr. Caridi, I saw a liposuction on TV and it looks like it really hurts! Is this true?

I’ve heard this quite a lot, lately. Patients have seen liposuction on TV and think it looks painful. The image of a surgeon pushing a tube in and out of the body certainly looks painful. What is the reality of this situation? The fact is that liposuction is one of the most reliable plastic surgery procedures that I perform, and after having lived through the recovery of literally thousands of patients, I certainly wouldn’t describe their recovery as terribly bad, at all.

We all know that some individuals will complain more than others, but on the whole, most average sized liposuction cases are associated with mild to moderate discomfort that improves rapidly. Sometimes the term “pain” comes up in the discussions, but most of the time the word “soreness” is used to describe the discomfort, after a liposuction. Even those who describe pain would tell you that it is certainly manageable pain (alleviated with a pain pill or a change in position).

The real question is why doesn’t a procedure that looks like it would hurt so much, not hurt? Is it because the skin incisions are tiny? Is it because we use a numbing solution, at the time of the procedure, that lasts for several days afterward? Is it because the fatty layer around the body does not have lots of sensory nerve endings, that convey the sensation of pain, after the procedure? Is it because the cannula, used to remove the fat, is so small?

I’m not sure what the exact explanation is for this disconnect between how painful the procedure looks, and how little pain is actually associated with the recovery; but, the fact remains that, although liposuction looks like it would hurt horribly, it really doesn’t!

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Volume 3

Top 10 Ways to Preserve Your Beauty

Looking and feeling your best is simply a matter of adopting healthy habits that last a lifetime. Here are my top picks for preserving natural beauty:

Avoid excessive exposure to the sun.
Eat a healthy diet, and exercise regularly.
Minimize stress in your life (this could be one of the harder ones!).
Consider medical-grade skin care, in your late twenties, and Botox and fillers, in your mid to late thirties. Both will make you look younger than your age.
Smile often!
Take advantage of artistic makeup and a great hairstyle.
Know a great plastic surgeon!
Avoid excessive drug and alcohol use.
Get eight hours of sleep every night.
Don’t smoke!

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Facial Plastic Surgery on the Comeback! : “Face lift in a bottle,” does it really work?

More patients are choosing “classic” procedures, like face and neck lifts. I have seen this in my own practice, and now national statistics confirm the trend. The new, “non invasive, minimal procedures” have failed to provide the results that patients thought they would obtain.

It certainly sounds good- a face-lift in a bottle, or neck tightening with a laser, but in actuality, the results are minimal, in most cases, and not inexpensive. Patients are now reconsidering traditional methods of improving the appearance of the face, for many reasons. Newer techniques require smaller incisions. A more “artful” application of procedures now provides beautiful, natural, “non-operated” results. Yes, the recovery is longer, and these procedures are not without risk; but, in expert hands, the results are impressive and the risks are minimal.

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Weighty Issues: Natural Remedies

We are all aware of the obesity epidemic in the United States. Weight related issues come up frequently, during consultations. It is difficult to lose weight, and frustrated patients look to the medical community for answers. Unfortunately, there is no “quick fix,” when it comes to losing weight, and we are still waiting on the “magic pill.” Meanwhile, bariatric procedures (surgery for weight loss) are on the rise and have become far safer than they have been in the past.

I have come to the following conclusions, when it comes to weight issues:

Anyone can lose weight, if they eat less. Everyone has to accept this as fact and realize that with consuming fewer calories comes weight loss.
Going to the gym and working out is not as important to weight loss as eating less and healthier. You can work out until the cows come home, but if you are eating more than you need, you will not lose weight.
Plastic surgery is not a “quick fix,” when it comes to dealing with fat. Liposuction is not for weight loss, and it can be detrimental, if you have the procedure and gain weight afterward.
Weight loss success is only under YOUR control. A dramatic change in mindset and lifestyle is needed, to improve the chances for sustained weight loss.
Weight loss programs can be successful because they become your coach and alter your lifestyle. If you don’t follow the program, you will fail.
We are all bombarded with weight loss marketing. Don’t be duped – if it sounds too good to be true, or too easy, it probably won’t work.

So, in essence, you have to determine your own destiny. First, and foremost, you have to stop making excuses, and accept simple reality – we are in an obesity epidemic because we eat too much of the wrong foods. The solution is simple: eat less, eat healthy foods, and add exercise to help burn off calories!

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Breast Enhancements at Large: I know it’s Texas, but is bigger actually better?

Breast enhancement continues to be one of the most popular procedures performed by Board Certified Plastic Surgeons, today. The FDA approval of silicone implants has increased demand for this type of implant significantly. Contrary to popular belief, most patients aren’t looking for large, “stripper boobs”.” Smaller implants, that create moderate fullness and work with your figure, are in demand. In fact, patients are so educated about implants, and knowledgeable about the informed consent issues, that I actually spend most of my time helping them decide on size. It’s an eye opening process. We take many issues into consideration, like the size of your hips and shoulders, your body type and weight, and your breast and chest wall shape. As a general rule, shape always trumps size. A large breast, that isn’t shaped well, isn’t as attractive as a smaller, well-shaped breast. I will help you choose the best implant size for your body. Now is a wonderful time to consider a breast enhancement!

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Volume 2

Truth and Marketing: Buyer Beware, When Choosing a Surgeon

It’s amazing how much the practice of medicine has changed. In the old days, a plastic surgeon hung out his or her shingle, and went to work building a practice, one patient at a time. Today, our society has seen an explosion of medical and para-medical professionals, marketing themselves as “cosmetic” doctors, and often, even as plastic surgeons!

Marketing can be very effective, so it’s important that you see through efforts designed to entice you into believing something that is not true. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Most over-the-top marketing comes from those who are not board-certified plastic surgeons. The “newest, latest, and greatest” isn’t always the most effective, or safest.

It is absolutely critical that you know who your doctor is—everything from where they trained to their area of expertise – and perhaps most importantly – to what their reputation is, in the community. I recommend that you choose your surgeon, or medical professional, based on reputation and word of mouth. Your doctor should be a medical professional – not a salesperson.

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Plastic Surgery Trends: The Truth About “SmartLipo”

SmartLipo is the trademark name of a laser-based liposuction device. It’s marketed as a way to achieve contour improvements, with improved results, over “traditional” liposuction – with less bruising and downtime – that can be performed using local anesthesia.

I am an expert in liposuction and have performed all types of liposuction, extensively. In my practice, for more than seventeen years, I have earned an unparalleled reputation for superb and safe results. I have used most of the “powered” liposuction devices, but have never found them to improve my results, reduce bruising, or accelerate recovery time. There is no scientific evidence to suggest that SmartLipo is better than traditional cannula-performed liposuction – or any other type of liposuction.

The fact is that it is the surgeon – not the machine – that determines the safety and quality of your results. An exceptional result means that you are artistically contoured, with skin that is free of dimples or waves, after the swelling has disappeared. Cannula-based liposuction is extremely precise because it allows the surgeon to know exactly how much fat has been removed, and allows for additional contouring, until we achieve the desired result – a lot like shaping a sculpture.

Also, those who market SmartLipo may not be board-certified plastic surgeons – and sometimes not surgeons at all! Do not succumb to the lure of exaggerated marketing. SmartLipo is certainly one tool in the toolbox of qualified surgeons that can help with fat contouring, but it is not the “holy grail” of liposuction. There are many paramedical individuals offering this service, so be VERY careful about having liposuction performed by non-professionals.

We’re happy to answer any, and all, questions you may have about this very popular, common procedure.

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Priscilla Presley: Avoid Silicone Injections!

Recent news has surfaced about Priscilla Presley having a substance injected into her face at a party, in California, by an unlicensed doctor. You may have seen the results during her appearance on Dancing with the Stars. Apparently she had a silicone material injected into her face. This is not good news for Priscilla.

Years ago, doctors used to inject silicone directly into the face. Initially, this new found use for silicone sounded wonderful, as the results were permanent, and supposedly there were no reactions to the material. Unfortunately, it didn’t work out that way. Many patients were permanently deformed, even disfigured, since there was no easy way to remove the material.

NEVER have silicone injected in your body or face. Never get any medical treatment from someone you don’t know, who is not highly regarded in the community, or board-certified. Always remember that cosmetic procedures are associated with risk, some more than others. A party is not a safe environment for any facial treatment. For questions about available treatments, designed to enhance your facial appearance, contact us – we’ll be happy to answer your questions!

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Keep Austin Weird? NOT…according to Dr. Caridi

MSNBC.com recently featured an article entitled, “Looking younger, or just weirder?” The story was about celebrity patients who had undergone cosmetic plastic surgery and now looked “weird,” or “operated on.”

I have to say that I agree! Reports like these only underscore why it is so important to find a surgeon who has an artistic eye and the ability to appropriately enhance his or her patients’ appearance, without creating an “artificial look.”

I have always believed that the objective of these surgeries is to mask the first signs of aging (such as jowls, deep lines that run from the sides of the nose to the corners of the mouth, and loosening neck skin), so that aperson looks refined and rejuvenated.

Quality results should look natural and smooth—not “wind swept,” or eyebrows that end up in the middle of the forehead. You should still have some imperfections that make you appear natural and age appropriate. The perfect result is when you appear so natural that the only thing people notice is that you look younger and refreshed – and who doesn’t want that?

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Plastic Surgery in the News: Florida High School Senior Dies after Breast Surgery

You may be aware of the case of a Florida high school senior, Stephanie Kuleba, who died after having elective breast surgery. Although an official statement has not been issued, the exact cause of this tragedy is thought to be the result of malignant hyperthermia, a very rare, potentially fatal reaction to anesthesia.

It’s important that you are aware that, if recognized and treated rapidly, most patients recover from this condition. My partner is a board-certified anesthesiologist, who is an expert in her field. I believe that it’s important to have the most educated, professional, and competent staff – especially, in those rare cases, when you need their expertise the most. Also, every procedure we do at Westlake Plastic Surgery is performed in my fully accredited office operating facility, and is staffed by two nurses and two doctors.

My personal philosophy is to surround my patients with the very best in the industry; after all, it’s what I would want during any procedure. It’s all about who you entrust your care to, and I am a trusted partner to each and every one of my patients.

Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns – we’ll be happy to address them at any time.

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Volume 1

Myth vs. Fact: The Truth about Silicone Implants

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) removed silicone breast implants from the American market about 14 years ago. The FDA wanted to be positive that silicone implants had a high degree of safety, and was not convinced that enough studies had been conducted in order to prove the safety of these implants. However, in 2006, the FDA approved the use of silicone implants, again. Despite the reintroduction of silicone into the market, many women remain confused and concerned about breast implant safety.

All studies indicate that no significant safety concerns exist with the use of these implants. Silicone implants have not been associated with breast cancer or connective tissue diseases. There certainly can be patients that “react,” in some way, to silicone material, but this is very, very uncommon and difficult to prove. So much misinformation circulates the Internet that scares patients about the safety of silicone implants. This occurs because individuals can write anything about the material when, in fact, no science backs their claims.

Since the FDA approval, the amount of women seeking silicone implants has increased drastically. Probably close to 90% of the implants used in my practice are silicone. In general, silicone implants tend to be softer and more natural looking than saline implants. This does not mean that saline implants are not as nice. They are, particularly in patients who already have moderate sized breasts and looking for additional fullness. The best type of material for this procedure differs, from patient to patient.

Probably the most significant difference, between silicone and saline implants, is that the incision for silicone is longer. This is the case for silicone because the implant is pre-filled. A saline implant, on the other hand, is inserted empty (like a taco), and is then filled with fluid once under the breast.

I would suggest that you consider both implants. Speak with your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon about his or her experience with each type of implant and recommendations about the best implants for you. Please review my article on breast enhancement on my website to learn more about breast implants and the breast augmentation process, in general.

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Plastic Surgery in the News: Kanye West’s Mother Dies after Plastic Surgery Complications

The recent loss of Kanye West’s mother, during a plastic surgery procedure, has created quite a stir among prospective plastic surgery patients. This unfortunate event is a reminder to us all that surgery does not come without its risks, and that you need to make sure that you only put your trust in health care professionals who have the greatest experience, thorough training, and time tested judgment.

Although all surgical procedures involve risk, it is critical that your doctor evaluate your general state of health, the type of procedure(s) that you are requesting, and his or her ability to properly (and safely) perform the procedure(s). If you have pre-existing medical problems, your doctor needs to be aware of any, and all, of these. The surgeon will need to make a determination on how this will influence your procedure(s). Your surgeon has to be a risk manager—someone with the skill sets to determine what procedure(s) are appropriate for you, and how your outcome and safety can be maximized.

To put yourself in the best hands, I would consider the following:

Choose a surgeon who is Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons
Make sure your surgeon has expertise in the procedure(s) you are considering
Make sure to verify your surgeon’s expertise by asking about his or her experience with the procedure(s)
Make sure your surgeon has a stellar reputation in your community
Be very honest and thorough in discussing any health issues with your surgeon
Make sure the procedure(s) are performed in a fully accredited operating facility, with experienced staff, especially in the procedure(s) you are considering
If having multiple procedures performed at the same time, make sure they are done in less than five hours, and ask your surgeon if it’s reasonably safe to combine the procedures, rather than staging them throughout multiple procedures

Never assume. Plastic surgery is not the time to seek out the least expensive, least qualified caregiver. There can be no compromises, when it comes to your safety.

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Ask the Doctor: Is Botox Safe?

I have extensive experience with Botox, and in the ten years I have worked with it, I have never encountered a problem. In fact, I have received Botox treatments around my frown lines, for the same time period, and have never experienced any problems.

Recently in the news, an article surfaced that made references to deaths associated with Botox. This is simply a huge distortion of reality. Rare incidences of deaths in patients who’ve received Botox have occurred; however, these patients received large dosages of Botox, for neurological conditions or spastic muscle disorders. These individuals probably didn’t have problems with the actual Botox, but more likely with their underlying severe medical condition. Botox, given for cosmetic indications like wrinkles, is very safe. Botox offers an unparalleled safety record, when given for cosmetic wrinkles.

Continue to benefit from your Botox treatments without worry, and feel assured that you will not experience side effects from Botox. I just wish it lasted longer—it’s hard to get a Botox treatment without immediately seeing huge benefits and always wanting more!

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Westlake Plastic Surgery

Dr. Robert Caridi