Nose Reshaping Surgery

Nose reshaping surgery is also known as rhinoplasty. You will not be able to undergo this surgery before the age of 14 or 15. Boys should wait even longer. The nose may not be fully developed at a younger age. Of course, cosmetic surgery is not something one should be thinking of at that age. As a teenager, your plastic surgeon will want to be certain that you have thought carefully about surgery and that the desire to change your appearance is based on your own feelings rather than those of your parents or friends.

Assuming you are in good health, there is no upper age limit for having your nose reshaped. Rhinoplasty is sometimes performed in conjunction with a facelift or other rejuvenate surgery to correct aging changes of the nose such as a drooping tip.

Sometimes certain breathing problems related to the internal nasal structures can be corrected at the same time as nose reshaping is performed. Your plastic surgeon will be able to help you determine whether these structures should be modified along with reshaping your nose.

During your initial consultation you may be asked to look in a mirror and point out exactly what you would like to see improved. This will help your plastic surgeon to understand your expectations and determine whether they can realistically be achieved.

Some indications that you may be a good candidate for rhinoplasty are:
Your nose appears too large for your face
There is a bump on the nasal bridge when viewed in profile
Your nose seems too wide when viewed from the front
The nasal tip droops or plunges
The tip is thickened or enlarged
Your nostrils are excessively flared
Your nose is off-centre or crooked
Previous injury has made your nose asymmetrical


It is important that you have a clear idea of how you would like your nose to look and, at the same time realise that there are limitations to the procedure. Patients with sufficient physical and emotional maturity who undergo rhinoplasty because they want to enhance their self-image are usually very satisfied with their decision.

More about Nose Reshaping Surgery


By Marius Bezuidenhout

Non-Surgical Nose Jobs

A new and popular form of nose job has been developed that does not require invasive surgery. It has been called, “the fifteen minute nose job”, and it really works.

As the name suggests, a nose job is basically the reshaping of the nose. When a major abnormality exists, or a major reduction in size is what is wanted, surgery is necessary. However, many patients are looking for some minor reshaping. This often involves bumps or irregularities on the surface of the nose. These can now be treated in simple non-surgical procedures using certain injectables such as Botox, Restylane, or Radiesse. These materials can be used to provide nasal reshaping and smoothing that can be done quickly and requires little or no recovery time.

The procedure can be performed in a single visit. The doctor simply injects filler into the soft tissue of the nose in the area that is being reshaped. Any minor bulges and bumps disappear and the nose is left smooth and straight. It is possible through this procedure to have a contoured and shapely nose that does much to improve your appearance and also your self confidence. This can all be accomplished in a mere fifteen minute doctor visit.

The major concern with the use of filler to reshape the nose is the idea that the nose will be larger. Many people fear this and think of the procedure as much like breast implants. The idea is that with the nose, larger is not better. However, this is not the case. The nose is made straighter and smoother and the overall effect is not an increase in size.

A surgical nose job involves incisions and often even the breaking of nasal bones to achieve the desired result. Non-surgical nose jobs avoid this and very little recovery time is needed after the procedure. In some cases, slight swelling occurs for a few days after the procedure. The other important consideration is cost. Normally, non-surgical procedures will cost one tenth as much as a surgical procedure. Since Medical Insurance does not usually cover a nose job for cosmetic purposes, this is a very important fact.

It is important to remember that major nasal reconstruction and size reduction can not be accomplished without surgery. Non-surgical nose jobs are for minor issues. You should be aware of it as an option, however, and discuss the possibility of a non-surgical procedure with your surgeon. Although the common term, 15 minute nose job, may seem to indicate a quack and ineffective procedure, this is not true. It is a viable alternative for minor conditions.

Learn more about nose jobs at PlasticSurgeonPractices.com.


By Ricardo Silva

Kansas City Cosmetic Surgery - Nose Reshaping Rhinoplasty Cosmetic Surgeon

Cosmetic Nose Surgery should be performed by a surgeon only with very talented aesthetic abilities and preferably a board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon. In addition, the Rhinoplasty procedure should be performed with minimal surgical trauma to the nose, no external incisions, match and blend all facial features, look very natural and unoperated, cause minimal pain and discomfort to the patient, and be performed under the highest standards of safety.

Cosmetic nose surgery can dramatically change the size, shape and appearance of a nose. The Surgeons objective is to create a natural-looking nose that fits with other facial features. He/She creates this nose by recontouring the nasal profile, reshaping the nasal tip, and changing the angle between the nose and the upper lip. Concurrently, breathing problems can also be corrected during this surgical procedure.

The Rhinoplasty Surgeon is able to reshape your nose through small incisions made inside of your nose so that they will not be visible. Should any incisions need to be made outside the nose, the surgeon will make sure that they are well hidden and inconspicuous.

After the Rhinoplasty procedure, patients are send home with or without packing of the nose. Dr. Clavin does not send patients home with packing of the nose, even when septal work is being done, however their are physicians that do use packing and that is their own personal choice. Dr. Clavin has found using his technique that packing is not helpful and patients are more comfortable post-operatively.

The "new" approach to cosmetic nose surgery, that being an "open rhinoplasty" should only be reserved for very special cases of revision rhinoplasty, since it can cause extensive swelling and trauma to the nose.

Dr. Clavin is a board certified plastic and recontructive surgeon practicing is Santa Monica, CA. Dr. Clavin's background is wide and varied. He achieved remarkable recognition as a physician and surgeon at a very young age. He developed and patented the "Non Surgical Eyelift" as well as a complete line of Glycolic Acid and Vitamin C skin care products. He has appeared on National and Regional television many times. For a detailed explanation of Dr. Clavin's background please visit his websites at http://www.clavin.com and http://www.cosmetic-nose-surgery.com


By Harold Clavin

Rhinoplasty: The Most Demanded Source For Reshaping The Nose

Rhinoplasty is virtually a nose surgery which is often used for the process of giving proper shape and formation to the nose. Rhinoplasty is thus considered as a nose job. Nose job here means a nose cosmetic surgery. Nose bears a very important feature in one’s face. Thus improper shape and size of the nose can be well given a proper shape with the help of rhinoplasty. Rhinoplasty is basically a form of cosmetic surgery where the tip of the nose is given proper shape. That is if the tip of the nose is too rounded and full or if it too long or even if it is blunt, then Rhinoplasty is the ultimate source.

Rhinoplasty is one of the most common from of cosmetic surgery which is very much popular in the USA. Rhinoplasty thus works as a procedure of reshaping the outline of the nose. Hence, nose size enhancement, bridging of the tip of the nose, giving proper proportions to the angle of the nose can all be done through Rhinoplasty. Rhinoplasty can also help in overcoming certain breathing problems. Thus Rhinoplasty helps in enhancing more courage and confidence in one’s by confining the entire look of the individual who undergoes Rhinoplasty.

When anyone opts for Rhinoplasty, certain consideration should be made. It has been estimated that the correct age for the boys for Rhinoplasty should be 15 year and in respect of the girls it should be more than 15 years. The cost of Rhinoplasty may vary depending upon the type of shape to be given to the nose. But most importantly the fees virtually depend upon the surgeon who undertakes the surgery. The more accuracy needed in respect of Rhinoplasty, demands high fees and vice versa.

Rhinoplasty is usually considered to be two types. The first from of Rhinoplasty is known as Closed Rhinoplasty and the second form is Open Rhinoplasty. In the first form of Rhinoplasty, incisions are mainly made inside the nose of the patient. This from of Rhinoplasty reduces the formation of visible scars. For this type of Rhinoplasty, the surgeon should be a highly experienced one in the field of nasal anatomy. But in the second form of Rhinoplasty, surgeons generally make the incisions on the upper or in the outside area of the nose. Visible scars are usually found in respect of Open Rhinoplasty. The pain which is generally experienced during Rhinoplasty can be however reduced with mild medication of analgesics.

Farzina Naznin as a writer has written articles for various sites related with beauty. In this respect, sites like http://www.greathealthinformation.com/, http://www.greathealthservices.com/, http://www.yourfitnesshealth.com/ will reveal her articles. Comments if any are welcome at farnaznin@gmail.com


By Farzina Naznin

Nose Surgery - Rhinoplasty

Nose Surgery Information

Rhinoplasty is the medical terminology for what most people refer to as a nose job, nose plastic surgery, or nose cosmetic surgery.

In this procedure there are several goals that a patient may be trying to achieve. Some individuals may be seeking to correct and reshape the nose by targeting these frequent items:


Reducing or increasing size
Removing a hump
Adjusting or changing the shape of the tip
Adjusting or changing the shape of the bridge
Narrowing the span of the nostrils
Changing the angle between the nose and upper lip

Because the correction of the above items may assist in relieving breathing problems it is possible that Rhinoplasty may be covered by insurance.

Length and details of the Nose Surgery procedure

The length of operation usually runs 1 to 2 hours or more.

Patients are given a general or local anesthesia, with sedation.

Rhinoplasty procedures are routinely outpatient.

Risks and/or complications related to Nose Surgery

For most Nose surgery operations the patient will experiences potential side effects consisting of temporary swelling, bruising around eyes, nose and headaches. The patient may also experience some bleeding and stiffness. In addition there are other associated risks with this procedure that include the risk of infection, burst blood vessels could cause permanent red spots, and incomplete results could require additional surgery.

For most patients the recovery time needed varies with the activity. Patients may return to work in approximatly1 to 2 weeks. Those involved in sports or other physical activities will be able to resume these activities in approximately 2 to 3 weeks. Individuals are advised to limit exposure to the sun for several weeks afterwards. The final results of the procedure may take up to a year to be fully realized in its appearance.

Long-term results of Nose Surgery

In this procedure the results typically are permanent.

How much does a Nose Surgery cost?

The procedure typically runs in-between $3,000.00 to $8,000.00

Will my insurance cover a Nose Surgery procedure?

Because a Nose Surgery is considered an elective procedure, insurance usually will not cover the operation. Because the correction of the above items may assist in relieving breathing problems it is possible that Rhinoplasty may be covered by insurance.

Read more about Nose Surgery - Rhinoplasty and its benefits. Alan Hood is a contributing writer at http://www.houstonmedcenter.com

By Alan Hood

An Open Window Policy - Eyelid Surgery Can Keep your Outlook Bright

In the blink of an eye, that’s how they say time moves. Blink. Blink. There it goes, again and again and again. And if the blinking of your eye measures the passage of time, it’s no wonder if your eyes show the passage of time more than the rest of your body. For some of us, all the work we do to maintain a youthful appearance through exercise and diet and the general care and maintenance of our bodies is betrayed by the seemingly inevitable changes that take place around our eyes.

The eyes are the windows to the soul. They are where people look to see if we love them, or if they can trust us. In folklore, anime, and velvet paintings, wide eyes are the symbol of youth. If we want to look young, both to others and to ourselves in the mirror, the eyes are the place to start.

Introduction to Blepharoplasty (Eyelid surgery)

Sometimes called an eyelid lift, blepharoplasty (a mouthful, to say the least!) is a delicate surgery that rejuvenates the skin and muscles around the eyes and can be performed on both the upper and the lower eyelids. It can be used to correct:

· Drooping eyelids
· Sagging eyelids
· Bags under the eyes
· Narrowed eyes
· Tired appearance
· Sight obstruction

Because our eyes are so much a part of our day-to-day interaction with others, some of these changes can be more than simply cosmetic. For example, salespeople might find the sagging of their eyelids causes customers to find them less trustworthy. Friends and loved ones might mistake our perennially tired appearance for boredom or loss of commitment to a relationship. In these cases, looking better is not merely superficial—it runs right to the heart of our livelihood and our lives.

How Blepharoplasty Works

There are two types of blepharoplasty: upper lid and lower lid. Consulting with an experienced plastic surgeon will help you determine which ones are appropriate for you.

In Upper lid blepharoplasty, the surgeon makes a tiny incision along the crease of the upper eyelid to provide access. Then the surgeon is able to remove excess fat and/or skin that is giving the eye a puffed appearance. The surgeon tightens the skin and seals the incision carefully with very fine sutures.

There are two types of lower lid blepharoplasty. Most often the surgeon makes an incision just below the lash line of the lower eyelid, using this incision to remove fatty tissue and/or skin and tighten the skin and muscles of the lower lid to eliminate puffiness or bagginess. If you don’t need to have the skin or muscles of the lower lid trimmed, the surgeon may opt for what is called a transconjunctival blepharoplasty (two mouthfuls, whew!). In this procedure, the incision is actually made inside the lower eyelid. In this case, any scarring from the procedure is completely invisible.

A Quick Procedure

Blepharoplasty, although a long word, is a relatively short procedure, taking only one to two hours to complete. Not only that, but the fine skin around the eyes and the tiny incisions used make for a very quick recovery time. Most patients are able to get back to non-strenuous activity in a day or two, although it’s best to put aside unnecessary activities for a week or so. The sutures used dissolve on their own, so there’s no need to go in to the doctor to have them removed. All in all, a relatively easy procedure, considering what it can do for you!

And because it’s a tightly targeted procedure, it can be combined with any number of surgical and non-surgical treatments such as a face lift, a brow lift, the injection of filler materials or Botox treatments.

If you’d like to know more about blepharoplasty, please visit the website of Bray Plastic Surgery, serving the cosmetic surgery demands of the Greater Los Angeles area.


By Patricia Woloch

Cosmetic Surgery - Fact vs Fiction

With all of the hype on TV and in magazines about cosmetic makeovers and who’s having what done, it’s hard to keep in mind that cosmetic surgery is indeed surgery and not something to be taken lightly. In one hour-long television show, you can witness a person’s complete transformation and it all looks so easy.

The good thing about TV shows like Extreme Makeover is that they have “un-stigmatized” cosmetic surgery and made it more acceptable to the general public. The downside to some of these shows and the coverage of celebrity makeovers is that they can create unrealistic expectations and some misconceptions about what cosmetic surgery is and what it can do for most people.

Let’s review some of the more common misconceptions about cosmetic surgery in general as well as a few procedures and then look at the actual facts.

Fiction – Cosmetic surgery will change my life and how people treat me.
Fact – Cosmetic surgery can affect the way you feel about yourself and boost your self-esteem and confidence but it will not change how people treat you.

Fiction - All cosmetic surgeons are board-certified in plastic surgery.
Fact – There are many doctors out there calling themselves “board-certified cosmetic surgeons” but they are board-certified but in completely different specialties than plastic surgery. There are dermatologists, gynecologists, ENTs and many other doctors performing cosmetic procedures. Make sure your cosmetic surgeon is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

Fiction - Abdominal liposuction produces the same results as a tummy tuck.
Fact – Liposuction only removes localized excess fat. It does restore stretched abdominal muscles or remove excess sagging skin as a tummy tuck will do.

Fiction - Breast augmentation will lift sagging breasts.
Fact – Breast enlargement surgery creates fuller breasts but cannot lift sagging muscles and skin. Many people who are considering breast augmentation and also have sagging breasts, opt to have a breast lift at the same time as their augmentation.

Fiction - Only people who are “shallow” and narcissistic have cosmetic surgery.
Fact – There are some people out there that are so afraid to age that they have become addicted to cosmetic surgery. However, the vast majority of those having procedures done simply want their appearance to be proportional, in balance and natural looking.

Fiction - Only the rich can afford cosmetic surgery.
Fact – There are numerous financing options when it comes to paying for cosmetic procedures. Many credit card companies have payment programs designed just for cosmetic procedure patients. Just like your house or car payment, you can pay for cosmetic procedures in monthly installments. You can also go to your local bank or credit union for a loan, or use a rewards credit card.

These are only a few of the most common misconceptions about cosmetic surgery. An experienced cosmetic surgeon can help clear up any other questions you have about cosmetic surgery.

If you live in the Dallas, Texas area and are considering any type of cosmetic procedure, take the time to schedule a consultation with Dr. Vasdev Rai. He’s an experienced cosmetic surgeon, board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. He’ll clear up any questions you have about cosmetic surgery.


By Vasdev Rai

Cosmetic Surgery - Getting the Natural Look

Men and women of all ages and backgrounds are using plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery to enhance their appearance. Some are interested in plastic surgery or cosmetic surgery because of an accident or injury, some are interested as a result of the aging process, and still others want to bolster their confidence by improving their appearance.

The reason or reasons someone is interested in plastic surgery or cosmetic surgery is entirely up to them, though a good surgeon will speak to them and give a detailed consultation. During a consultation with a plastic surgeon or a cosmetic surgeon, the patient is being interviewed just as much as the surgeon is being interviewed. There needs to be a real meeting of the minds when the patient and the doctor meet and an establishment of realistic expectations.

Unfortunately, not all plastic surgeons or cosmetic surgeons take their responsibility to screen patients as seriously as they should. Some of the most respect surgeons in the industry however do. These surgeons understand that the goal is always natural looking results from the procedure or procedures and a realistic view and expectation. Surgeons with integrity are willing to decline requests from potential clients in order to stick to their core beliefs about when plastic or cosmetic surgery is or is not advisable.

Finding a surgeon with the right skill, reputation and integrity is sometimes difficult. Depending on where you live, there may or may not be many plastic surgeons in your area. If you are interested in plastic surgery in Cincinnati or Dayton, you can turn to the Mandell-Brown Plastic Surgery Center. Dr. Mandell-Brown is a well-respected "Triple Board Certified Plastic Surgeon" with a national reputation.

For more than 20 years the Mandell-Brown Plastic Surgery Center has been providing the absolute best in plastic surgery to people all across the country who seek their expertise and experience. To learn more about Natural Look™ Cosmetic Surgery, as performed at one of the most widely recognized plastic surgery facilities in the tri-state area, visit http://www.mandellbrown.com or call 513-984-4700.


By Karen Kirby

Butt Augmentation Surgery May Be Right For You

Butt augmentation (or butt implants) is a general term that describes surgery to enhance the appearance of one’s butt. Whether the desired effect is firmness, changed shape, or changed size, butt augmentation surgery can accomplish this. The surgery is generally simple, fast, and uncomplicated. Most plastic surgery practices will do it. It is unlikely to be covered by standard insurance unless it is being done to correct a defect or injury, but even then you should consult with your insurance provider first.

There are two types of buttock augmentation: Implant surgery where an actual synthetic implant is added that chnages the appearance of the area

And

Injections of substances that also change the fullness or shape. Substances injected include silicone.

Both of these procedures can also smooth wrinkles and reduce areas of cellulite. However, each is different and one may be more fitting for your unique needs and desires.

The most famous type of butt-modifying injections are Brazilian Butt Lifts. This procedure, also called fat injections, fat transfer, or fat grafting is exactly what those alternatives suggest. Often fat is removed from one of more areas, and redeposited in others to change the shape of the butt. This is a relatively natural process, as the fat is your own fat that taken from your butt or elsewhere.

Butt implants involve the surgical insertion of artificial implants into the buttocks that change either its size, shape, or proportion. These implants can give definition where there once was none and generally improve the appearance of the area.

People who go through butt augmentation surgery enhance both their appearance and their self-esteem and self-confidence. Butt implant and injection surgery have become increasingly popular for many women, and even some men.

As with any surgery, you must consider many factors, such as your overall health, the short- and long-term consequences of the surgery, the cost and benefits, etc. It is vital that you discuss this with your general medical practitioner, a qualified plastic surgeon, and your family.

For more information about butt augmentation surgery, please see http://www.buttaugmentation.info or http://www.buttockimplants.info


By Alan Jacobson

The Skin And Nose Magician - Meet Your Local Plastic Surgeon

Definition - Plastic Surgeon:

A Plastic Surgeon is usually referred as a surgeon, who is specialized in scaling down scarring or deformity that is perhaps caused due to accidents, birth marks, or owing to the treatment in particular kind of disease as such melanoma. Simply stating, a doctor that performs special kinds of surgeries on people to enhance the way they look are called as Plastic Surgeons. They are the ones who beautify the body of people via operating several plastic surgeries. Numerous of surgeon executes cosmetic surgery not very much related to the medical settings, as such rhinoplasty, which is undertaken to modify the shape of nose. Surgeons as a profession can be traced back to the year 1918, when Harold Delf Gillies became first ever physician specializing in plastic surgery.

Need of Plastic Surgeon:

Innumerable people around the globe are in constant struggle to alter the way they look. Plastic surgery comes as a refuge for these people. The success of plastic surgery in modifying the appearances of people is amazing. However, there are cases when it didn’t work as anticipated and there were awful cases of plastic surgeries. In order to prevent from such dire conditions, it is suggested to approach the best surgeons. A Plastic surgeon is a respected associate of medical community. They are the ones who help fix skin damages.

How do they go About It?

Like other medical practitioners, a surgeon examines the patient first in order to ascertain the total damage and determine how much time reconstructive surgery is going to take. Any surgeon while fixing the damage clears the exterior clutter of the skin. Subsequent to which, skin requires to be put across on the damaged part, only after fixing the interior muscle damage. After which, surgeon determines, whether any reconstructive work is still left to be completed. Internal part of damaged portion has to be fixed following which, a surgeon will cover the damaged area with the help of rough layer. This way a plastic surgeon usually conducts an operation.

Want more infomration on Manhattan plastic surgeons or Beverly Hills plastic surgeons? Then visit our web site!

By Dave Demink

Breast Plastic Surgery - What You Must Know About Breast Augmentation And Other Breast Surgeries

Breast augmentation is the most commonly performed cosmetic surgical procedure in the US and is the most commonly performed type of breast plastic surgery. In some countries, health insurers will reimburse for the breast implants only for clinical indications, such as congenital abnormalities, sex-reassignment surgery and breast reconstruction, usually following a mastectomy. If you're considering any type of breast plastic surgery, it's important to know everything you can about it, pros and cons.

And saline-filled implants are the most common implant used in the US because of a few restrictions on silicone implants, which may change, but are seldom used in other countries. The shells of saline implant shells are made of a silicone elastomer and are filled with saline solution after the implant is placed into the body. For women who have only a little breast tissue, or for those who want post-mastectomy reconstruction, plastic surgeons seem to think that silicone gel implants are superior. But for patients who have more breast tissue, the saline implants can look, but not necessarily feel, very similar to silicone gel implants.

There have been a few types of breast implants developed other than the saline and silicone gel implants, including polypropylene string and soy oil. Leakage of oil into the body during a rupture wouldn't be good. Saline implants are more likely to cause problems like rippling and wrinkling, and can be seen and felt.

Back in the 1970s plastic surgeons wanted more life-like and softer implants were designed with a thinner gel and thinner shells. But these implants were more likely to rupture, leak or "bleed" silicone into the body and finding complications such as capsular contractures were not uncommon. MRI's were given to help detect these ruptures and leakage.

A mastopexy may be performed to tighten up the skin following the removal of breast implants, especially for those that have been implanted for a long period of time. MRIs should be used to screen for the silent ruptures. The leaked silicone does have the potential to migrate to other parts of the body.

Some complications with breast implants include post-operative bleeding, fluid collections and surgical site infection. Also there may be breast pain, alterations in sensation in the nipples and interference with breast feeding. Then possibly visible wrinkling may occur or an asymmetric appearance, wound dehiscence with implant exposure and thinning of the tissue in the breast.

If you decide to have breast plastic surgery, make sure to choose the best breast plastic surgeon you can find based on your research. You might ask nurses, doctors or other health professionals you know for recommendations. The surgical procedure, usually done on an outpatient basis, for breast augmentation, takes about one or two hours depending on a number of factors. The effects of this breast plastic surgery, both bad and good, will be around for some time to come. You may know that some doctors in other specialties, such as dermatologists, perform breast plastic surgery like breast implantation or breast augmentation. It would be best to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon.

For more information on breast plastic surgery and breast implants visit http://www.Breast-Plastic-Surgery.net a nurse's website offering tips, resources and information on breast reduction, breast reconstruction, mastopexy, complications, breast plastic surgery problems, low cost breast plastic surgery, medical travel and breast augmentation


By Helen Hecker

Surveying The Manscape - Organizing Your Grooming Regimen

Like the Sundance Kid says on television these days, “Let’s make that commitment.” When you’re ready to make your commitment to better grooming, getting a plan of action together can be a pain in the ass. There’s a lot of information to take in, and a lot of it seems to contradict the rest. Do you stick with the over counter hair and skin products or should you upgrade to the professional, high-end groom supplies? Is there really that much difference?

The truth of the matter in this VIP-driven economy is this: you get what you pay for. The days of something being more expensive simply because of its label are as far gone as the mullet and the calculator watch. For something to be worth its money, it had better work. And work better than the rank and file stuff.

As you get ready to reinvent yourself, make the commitment to spend a little more on the equipment that’s going to bring you the biggest payoff in the mid- and long-term. Anyone would tell you to do the same if you were considering how to take care of your money. Now, take the same advice and use it to guide you when taking care of the only body you’ll ever have.

When you’re planning to take care of your skin, depending on your skin type you’ll need to figure out a care regimen that works with your body, not against it. Your epidermis and oil glands are already doing everything they can to protect and nurture your skin cells. You want a cleanser and exfoliant that works in conjunction with your body’s natural defenses. The over the counter stuff you get in the drugstore is like napalm for your skin: it just wipes everything away, leaving your skin to its own devices in rejuvenating and repairing its own damaged tissue. If you’ve ever wondered why your skin gets flaky after soaping up too much, it’s because regular cleansers are indiscriminate. So, like jogging with a safe on your back is a bad idea, don’t make your skin work harder than it has to. Any number of products, including Woody’s and Baxter’s of California, include the custom-engineered ingredients and natural additives to do the job.

Like the skin, your hair is already working with the tools you were born with. But stripping your hair with chemicals found in the cheap stuff only robs your hair and scalp of those very same agents. You want to stick to shampoos and conditioners that replenish what your body already has and builds upon it, such as those found in Sharp’s Shampoo or John Allan brand shampoos. If you’re choosing a conditioner, look for a brand like Anthony Logistics, which removes excess oil buildup while rinsing away the harmful effects of chemical cleaners and protects against the heat and humidity of the elements.

Beginning your grooming regimen is the first start in looking better and looking younger, which is always a big step in feeling good about yourself. Making that commitment and keeping it helps keep you at your best.

Visit MUG online for more men’s grooming and advice, including dealing with a variety of skin problems and reinventing your body with top of the line hair and skin care products that won’t cost a fortune.

Lee Wood is an expert on men's grooming and hair, skin, and polishing techniques and products. Visit http://www.mugonline.com for more men’s grooming and advice, including dealing with a variety of skin problems and reinventing your body with top of the line grooming products that won’t cost a fortune.


By Lee Wood

How Gastric Bypass Surgery Is Saving Lives

Many people suffering from morbid obesity find it difficult to lose weight through traditional means of healthy eating and exercise. Gastric bypass surgery is saving lives with an effective method for weight loss and lifelong weight management. With the help of gastric bypass surgery, patients are able to lose weight and resolve health conditions associated with obesity. Learn more and discover if gastric bypass surgery is right for you.

The Benefits of Gastric Bypass Surgery

Gastric bypass surgery is the top weight loss surgery in the United States. It’s considered safer and more effective than all other weight loss surgeries. When accompanied by behavioral modification through diet and exercise, gastric bypass surgery can improve the quality of life.

Gastric bypass surgery is not just about losing weight. Many people who are severely overweight may suffer from high blood pressure and cholesterol, Type 2 Diabetes, heart disease, reflux disease and sleep apnea, among other health conditions. Gastric bypass surgery can be the road to a healthier way of life.

How Gastric Bypass Surgery Works

Gastric bypass surgery achieves weight loss by altering the digestive system. The procedure takes a small section of the stomach and attaches it to the lower intestine, bypassing the lower stomach and nutrient absorbing duodenum. The small pouch collects food, limiting the amount a patient can intake and digest.

Am I a Candidate for Gastric Bypass Surgery?

Gastric bypass surgery may be an option for patients who have not achieved weight loss results through traditional diet and exercise. Gastric bypass surgery is for people who are morbidly obese and suffer from weight related health conditions. General criterion for gastric bypass surgery is a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or greater. You may also qualify with a BMI of 35 or higher if you have weight related health conditions.

Is Gastric Bypass Surgery Right for Me?

An important thing to keep in mind is that the gastric bypass surgery procedure is not a substitute for traditional weight loss methods. If you elect to have gastric bypass surgery, you must follow specific diet and exercise directions assigned by the medical staff. Your success is largely dependent on your ability to develop healthy eating and exercise habits.

In order to qualify for gastric bypass surgery, you will need to complete a thorough screening process. An examination by a staff of medical professionals, including a physician, surgeon, psychologist and dietitian is necessary. The doctors will evaluate your medical history, current health risks and psychological profile to determine whether gastric bypass surgery is a suitable route to take.

What is the procedure like?

Gastric bypass surgery usually takes around four hours to complete. Because the procedure requires a general anesthesia, a hospital stay between three and five days is required. Medical professionals will also want to monitor the success of your surgery.

Following the procedure, you will follow a strict 12-week diet in order to slowly reintroduce solid foods. Adjusting to the new size of your stomach can prove somewhat difficult. You’ll need to eat very small meals throughout the day to avoid vomiting and chest pains. You can increase your food intake with time, but never to the level prior to gastric bypass surgery.

Considerable weight loss occurs in most patients who successfully follow a recommended diet and exercise program outlined by the doctor. The average loss of excess weight is 75 percent after one year. Continued efforts on your part contribute to even more weight loss.

Gastric Bypass surgery and Cosmetic Surgery

A number of options for cosmetic surgery are available to deal with excess skin after weight-loss surgery. Patients who have lost a substantial amount of weight may benefit from a body lift, which provides a comprehensive approach to body contouring for excess skin. A body lift can also be combined with cosmetic laser surgery to diminish scars and stretch marks. You can find out more about your options for cosmetic surgery after gastric bypass, as well as, cosmetic surgery financing through DocShop.com.

Understand the Risks of Gastric Bypass Surgery

As with all other surgeries, gastric bypass surgery comes with its own set of possible risks and complications. Some of the more serious risks include blood clots in the legs, stomach leakage, pneumonia and death. Other less severe complications may include vomiting and diarrhea, nausea, dehydration, gallstones, hernia and vitamin deficiency.

Ask a cosmetic surgery expert about how this could affect appearance as well and any other questions or concerns you may have about cosmetic procedures after weight-loss surgery, such as cosmetic surgery financing.

By Keion Moradi

Life After Your Breast Augmentation Procedure

Breast augmentation is one of today’s most popular cosmetic procedures. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, more than 375,000 breast augmentations were performed in 2006 alone. There are many reasons why women opt for this surgery. Some want bigger breasts, while others want to restore their breast to their pre-pregnancy, childbirth and nursing appearance. But what happens after your breast augmentation procedure? Before you have this surgery, it is important to understand both the short-term and long-term impact of breast augmentation.

Immediately After Your Breast Augmentation Procedure

The recovery period immediately after your breast augmentation surgery can vary greatly depending upon a number of different factors. Age, skin type, family history and personal attitudes can all impact the length of your recovery time. You should discuss all of these issues with your doctor prior to having your procedure in order to develop an individualized recovery plan.

The care you receive after your breast augmentation can affect both the speed of healing as well as the long-term results of the procedure. Proper care during this time is crucial. Typically, your doctor will recommend an extended period of rest and relaxation. This recuperation time may last from a minimum of one week to two week or even longer if you have significant risk factors.

Even after you have resumed many of your normal daily activities and returned to work, your doctor may instruct you to keep your movements limited and to avoid heavy lifting. You should have regular follow-up appointments to assess the healing and results of your surgery. During your recovery time, you should always carefully watch the incision site for tearing, excessive swelling or bleeding. You should also take your temperature regularly, because an elevated temperature may indicate infection. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.

The Long-Term Effects of Surgery

Because breast augmentation is an invasive procedure, it may take several months for the full effects of your surgery to become apparent. Mild swelling may last for some time, and your breast may need time to settle into their final shape, placement and form. For many women, the long-term effects of breast augmentation may be largely psychological. Getting used to a new appearance can be difficult, but having a healthy attitude as well as realistic expectations can make the process much easier.

Additionally, you should also be prepared for other long-term potential side effects of breast augmentation. Some women experience sudden nipple insensitivity, often due to damage to the nerves during the surgical procedure, while other women report a sudden increase in sensitivity. By understanding these possible outcomes, you’ll be better prepared to deal with them if and when they arise.

Breast augmentation can be an excellent solution for many women looking to improve the size, shape or appearance of their breasts. Before deciding if breast augmentation surgery is right for you, however, you need to carefully consider both the short-term and long-term impact of the surgery.

You should also discuss details such as breast augmentation cost with your doctor to ensure the best possible breast augmentation experience. By carefully analyzing these details prior to breast augmentation surgery you can concentrate on a healthy recovery.


By Kendra Wagner

Cosmetic Surgery And You

There used to be a time when cosmetic surgery was the snooty prerogative of celebs who would frequently be photographed after a "holiday" looking all dewy and refreshed, much to our awe and amazement! Back then, those who could afford surgery strictly adopted a "don't kiss and tell policy" when questions were raised about their newly relaxed appearance. With increased media exposure, however, more and more people are displaying interest in nip and tuck procedures purely for aesthetic purposes. As a result, plastic surgery has found a place in the public domain.

Although people are a lot more up-front about procedures than they used to be, the fact is that going under the scalpel is not for everyone. While TV shows might sing its praises, and gush about how a little tweaking here and there can send your self-esteem sky rocketing, it isn't quite that simple.

Do You Need Cosmetic Surgery?

To answer this question it's important to understand the nature of the term. Cosmetic surgery helps you alter physical features or parts of your body that function perfectly well, but might still make you unhappy. Contrary to popular perception, those who seek out these services aren't usually people who are chronically dissatisfied or unhappy with their appearance. On the contrary, most people who choose to alter their appearance are basically happy and well-adjusted.

This is where the question of "need" comes in. If you're chronically depressed enhanced breasts or perfectly arched brows aren't going to bring about any changes in your state of mind. In fact, if done for the wrong reasons, cosmetic surgery can be a dangerous tool for your self image. For the most part, those who seek out these kinds of procedures are people who are reasonably happy with their appearance but wish they could have something (usually a minor aspect) about their physical appearance altered so they'll look and feel better.

What Cosmetic Surgery Can Do for You

Although your plastic surgeon can give you a realistic picture of your physical appearance post surgery, he or she can't and shouldn't guarantee any change in your psychological well being. If chosen judiciously, however, treatments can bring about positive emotional changes. Research conducted on patients following procedures reveals that most patients indicated increased self-confidence, and an enhanced quality in their personal and social lives. This isn't hard to understand. When you look better you feel better. This enhanced self-perception has a positive effect on your relationships.

Making Procedures Work for You

Now that you've made the decision to have cosmetic surgery it's necessary to mentally and emotionally prepare yourself for the surgery. Expect enhancement of your present looks, not movie star perfection. The less realistic your expectations, the more you set yourself up for disappointment when the bandages come off. Your surgeon should be able to give you a fair picture of what the end results might be.

Don't expect a miraculous makeover of your entire life. In other words, there isn't a magic wand that can set right a troubled marriage or end loneliness. If you expect your newly enhanced looks to correct other personal issues you might have, that's not going to happen. In fact, if you've just been through a traumatic experience such as a death in the family, have recently gotten divorced, or lost a job, you should probably postpone any plans for cosmetic surgery. The surgery will only compound these life stresses and increase the possibility of heightened expectations.

Also, understand that Beverly Hills cosmetic surgery is a medical procedure and as such there is always an element of risk attached. Complications can occur.

At the end of the day, cosmetic surgery can be a powerful way to realize your physical potential, which in turn can lead to beneficial effects in your personal, social, and professional lives. If you do your research, ask questions and are realistic in your expectations, there's no reason why cosmetic surgery won't enhance the quality of your life as it has for so many others.

Lloyd M. Krieger, MD is a plastic surgeon and founder of Rodeo Drive Plastic Surgery in Beverly Hills, California. More information is available on California cosmetic surgery and Los Angeles breast augmentation.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lloyd_Krieger

By Lloyd Krieger

Writer Spends Fortune On Plastic Surgery

Alex Kuczynski spent $100,000 before she realized she was addicted to cosmetic surgery. Now the 39-year-old author of "Beauty Junkies" is ready to tell her story.

"I hardly wear make-up anymore. I've spent 10 years dyeing my beautiful brown hair blonde and bleaching it to straw. I used to get a manicure and pedicure once a week (until I) discovered I have really nice fingernails with beautiful half-moons in them. What is amazing to me, having given up the Botox and collagen injections too, is how much time I have and how much money I save," said the daughter of Pedro Pablo Kuczynski, the former Prime Minister of Peru.

The mad rush to look beautiful and be perfect has forced many Americans to have cosmetic surgery - many of which are unnecessary. In 2004 alone, 478,251 Americans had liposuction; 334,052 had breast enhancement surgery; 290,343 had surgery to alter their eyelids; and 166,187 had rhinoplasty or nose jobs.

"Tens of thousands had more esoteric surgeries. New procedures include belly-button enhancement, nipple enlargement, and lower body lifts (to remove the excess folds of skin resulting from gastric bypasses)," according to Helena De Bertodano in The Times Online.

Like most Americans, Kuczynski was also caught in the beauty trap. Living in New York City pressured the style writer of the New York Times to compare herself with others and seek endless ways to beautify herself. This led to one cosmetic procedure after another.

"I always thought I would never ever do anything because in my view it was just not something that intelligent people did. (Cosmetic surgery) was considered the purview of dopey Hollywood starlets and aging Palm Beach housewives. I think that what happened is it somehow became OK, not only OK but required, to care about your outer carapace. It sounds bizarre but it's almost as if it is disrespectful to show up in a business meeting with a huge furrow between your eyebrows," she said.

With that in mind, Kuczynski began her slow but painful descent into the world of cosmetic surgery. It began with Botox injections to erase the wrinkles at the corners of her eyes, her forehead, and her eyebrows. From there, she had collagen implants to fix her nose, liposuction to remove some excess fat from her thighs, and she even had her eyelids done.

"I had spent $6,000 - about the annual salary of the average Hungarian, Mexican or Korean - to correct a minor imperfection of my body, a flaw so trivial that ultimately no one, not even my fiancé, would ever notice a difference. I was a junkie with a problem," she confessed.

While attending the funeral of a close friend, Kuczynski couldn't wait to have Restylane injections on her upper lip to look more like Angelina Jolie. She left the funeral to get the shots hoping to return there in a few minutes to make a speech. She never made it back.

Her lip swelled and it took some time before things returned to normal. By now, she realized her mistake and swore never to do anything to herself again.

Before you decide to have any cosmetic procedure, ask yourself: is it worth the risk? Do I really need it and am I ready to face the consequences? While generally safe at the hands of a skilled doctor, cosmetic surgery can hurt both you and your wallet. That's why a lot of people are turning to non-invasive and natural ways to stay beautiful. One option is the use of an anti-wrinkle cream like Dermaxin that can take years off your face without harming your health. For more information, go to http://www.dermaxin.com.

Janet Martin is an avid health and fitness enthusiast and published author. Many of her insightful articles can be found at the premiere online news magazine http://www.thearticleinsiders.com
By Janet Martin

Face Lift Surgery

Face lift surgery-is the removal of lax skin. These wrinkles can be related to age, hereditary or environmental factors. The appropriate time to have a consultation is when you no longer look the way you feel. This may be in your 40s or your 90s.

Face lifts can do more than improve the appearance of facial skin. It can also be a tremendous boost to a person's self-esteem. While there is no "right" age to undergo a face lift, your cosmetic surgeon will evaluate the condition of your skin and may discuss alternate or additional treatments with you. In combination with face lifts, other procedures may be performed including: eyelid surgery; brow lift, forehead lift; facial implants; partial chemical peel; laser resurfacing; Botox; lip augmentation; chin augmentation; nose reshaping or liposuction.

A face lift is considered to be a major operative procedure. Like any extensive surgical procedure, operative incisions and complicated surgical stitching is required. You must accept your cosmetic surgeon's judgment and realize that he will only remove the skin of the face that can be done safely and suitable for you particular facial contour. The face lift procedure as with the brow lift procedure can improve wrinkled skin, but skin type and patient age are important factors in the final result.

It is important for all patients considering face lifts to have realistic expectations. There are many factors involved-the amount of skin removed; age and condition of the patient; skin type, as well as its condition and texture; amount of previous sun and wind exposure as well as healing ability. Skin aging continues after the face lift operation, even though the excess skin and wrinkles have been removed. Occasionally a minor secondary procedure may be recommended to enhance results such as a brow lift.

A face lift or brow lift may be performed in an outpatient facility or in a hospital setting, under general or local anesthesia. In some cases, the operation may be performed on an outpatient basis and the patient returns home following the procedure. Other physicians may hospitalize the patient for one to two nights.

Face lifts may be performed in a hospital or an outpatient facility. Within the first week you may experience some discomfort, but most patients can resume normal activities. Be sure to always follow your cosmetic surgeon's advice following your face lift.

All questions should be directed to your cosmetic surgeon. Remember that healing is a gradual process and it may be several weeks before you will begin to see the new you. After the healing period is complete, face lifts can make you look younger, and improve your self-confidence.

Lps
Locate Plastic Surgeon
http://www.locateplasticsurgeon.com


By Asmat Zehra

Cosmetic Ear Surgery Available for Children

For many of us Dumbo is an early childhood favorite. A delightful tale with engaging characters and songs, it teaches the value of a mother's love and care, the value of friendship, and the value of self-confidence. Unfortunately, that self-confidence can be hard to maintain if a child is unfortunate enough to be born with large or protruding ears.

Because Dumbo is such an early favorite that children watch with indulgent grandparents on lazy Sunday afternoons, it becomes a powerful model of behavior, and, unfortunately, not all children are taught to model themselves after the best characters in the movie. Some children become like the teasing boys or snooty elephant matrons who tease Dumbo mercilessly. If your child has large or protruding ears, they can be subject to teasing at a very young age, at preschool or in kindergarten, beyond the eye or control of teachers and caregivers.

Ear Pinning Available as early as Age 4

Otoplasty, or ear pinning, is the only cosmetic surgery regularly performed on children. This is because the ears are a special case. Unlike most of our bodies, our ears have achieved close to their full size and shape by age 4. This makes them ideal sites for early intervention on the part of a skilled and sensitive plastic surgeon.

Much of children's bodies are constantly changing. They grow right out of clothes and shoes. They lose their baby teeth to get adult teeth and even wisdom teeth. Not to mention all the changes of puberty and beyond, so most cosmetic procedures are not recommended for children. On the other hand, our ears reach their full size and shape very early, which means they often stand out and could benefit from corrective surgery. Not only this, but the cartilage in children's ears is more easily shaped, making this a procedure that is best done at a young age.

Otoplasty is a safe and permanent solution

Otoplasty will not affect your child's hearing because only surface-level changes are made on the ears. The surgery begins with an incision in the natural fold where the ear joins the head. The surgeon then may remove skin and cartilage to achieve the desired effect. At this time, the ear can also be reshaped as well. Sometimes, it is not necessary to remove any tissue, but simply to move the ear and hold it in its new position with sutures until it heals permanently in place.

The child will have to wear bandages for a few days, and if he or she is a side-sleeper, there may be some disruption of sleeping for a week, but the surgery heals quickly and children are allowed to return to their normal activities as soon as they feel able. And when they return to their play, they will be happier without the teasing they had experienced. The scarring is very slight and well concealed in the natural fold behind the ear.

Because the ears have finished growing before the procedure is performed, the changes are for life and need never be redone. As the child grows and moves on to higher grades and new schools and finds new friends, the unpleasant memories of their early days will be forgotten, and you can watch them grow knowing that you have done your duty as a parent to make sure they are happy in their childhood.

Choose Your Surgeon Carefully

It is always crucial to make sure you feel fully comfortable with your plastic surgeon before beginning any procedure. Make sure to thoroughly question any prospective surgeons. However, it is especially important that you do this when the patient is a child. Select a doctor with whom you have good feelings, one who seems positive and upbeat about the surgery and its potential, one with experience, and, in this case, one with a strong notion of the value of family ties and family legacies.

And, of course, otoplasty can also be performed on adults, either by itself or in combination with other plastic surgery procedures.

If your family has a history of prominent ears, or if you were the recipient of childhood teasing that you would like to save your son or daughter, consult the web site of Dr. David Bray, who specialize in cosmetic surgery in the Los Angeles area.


By Patricia Woloch

Facial Surgery Procedures - Facelift And Blepharoplasty

Eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is a procedure to remove excess skin and muscle from the upper and lower eyelids along with removing or repositioning excess fat. Most patients are interested in correcting puffiness of the eyelids and excess skin of both the upper and the lower eyelids.

Oftentimes patients complain that they appear more tired than they feel. Sometimes fat is repositioned from the lower eyelid into the deep tear troughs or the deep depressions that exist at the bottom of the lower eyelids. The incisions are easily hidden below the eyelashes of the lower eyelids and sometimes performed with no incision on the lower eyelid whatsoever, called a transconjunctival blepharoplasty.

The upper eyelid incision is hidden very well back within the deep crease that is seen when the eye is shut, but retracts back when the eyelid is open. Many times eyelid surgery is performed at the same time as a face lift or a brow lift.

Facelift is a surgical procedure that eases signs of aging by removing excess skin, tightening underlying muscles, and re draping the skin over the face and neck. Most face lift patients are interested in improving the deep lines present on their cheeks, the excess skin along the jaw line known as jowls, and the excess skin and sagging of their neck. Often prospective facelift patients complain they look much more tired than they feel and are looking for a natural youthful appearance.

Most patients do not want to look overdone or pulled. The key to looking natural after surgery is to tighten the underlying muscles of the face without much tension on the skin. The best facelifts do not distort the hairline behind the ears or sideburn in front of the ear. The earlobes should also be left in place without being pulled forward. The surgical incisions should be difficult to detect. The surgery will evaluate your face, including the skin and underlying bone and discuss your goals for the surgery. The surgeon will check for medical problem such as high blood pressure, blood clotting problems, or the tendency to form excessive sears.

You will be asked to stop smoking for few weeks before and after the surgery as it inhibits blood flow to skin and healing process. You will be asked to stop talking aspirins it effects clotting. It your hair is to short, you can let it grow long before surgery, so that it is long enough to hide the sears while they heal.

A face lift is usually done on an out patient basis, but some surgeons may hospitalize the patient for a day when using general anesthesia. Most face lifts are performed under local anesthesia combined with a sedative to make you drowsy. You will be awake but relaxed and insensitive to pain.

Surgery:

A face lift surgery usually takes several hours. Every surgeon performs the procedure in his or her own way. Some complete one side of the face at a time and other move back and forth between the sides. The incisions are started above the hair line at the temples, extend in the natural line in front of the ear, and continue behind the ear lobe to the lower scalp. A small incision is made under the chin, if the neck needs work.

The surgeon separates the skin from the fat and muscle below. Fat is either trimmed or suctioned from around the neck and chin to improve contour. Then the underlying muscle and membrane is tightened the skin is pulled back and excess skin is removed.

Stitches secure the layers of tissue and close the incisions. Metal clips may be used on the scalp. After the surgery a drain tube is placed under the skin behind the ear to drain any blood that might collect there. The head may be loosely wrapped in bandages to minimize bruising ans swelling.

Post operative procedure:

Is there is any discomfort it can be minimized with pain medication. Numbness of the skin is quite normal and will disappear in a month. To keep the swelling down head should be kept elevated and still for a couple of days. Drain tube and bandages will be removed after one to five days.

Your face may appear bruised and puffy but in a few weeks you will look normal. Stitches will be removed after five days. Scalp will take longer to heal. Patients are back to work at about ten days after surgery. But the third week you will look and feel much better.

Dave Stringham is the President of LookingYourBest.com an online resource for plastic surgery procedures. Learn more about breast augmentation and other plastic surgery procedures.


By Dave Stringham

My Acupuncture Facelift Experience

Men and women do it. The vain and the rich do it. What is "it" they are doing? Cosmetic acupuncture, also known as acupuncture facial rejuvenation, has arrived from the Far East and is making its new home in the USA. This "new" modality of an ancient art uses ultra fine, sterile needles that may erase fine lines, reduce deeper wrinkles, and enhance skin tone.

Recently, I was invited to experience this all-natural "facelift." Without hesitation, I was on my way to another new venture.

Treatment is based on time tested principles of Chinese Medicine that views the body as a whole-meaning, your thigh bone is connected to the hip bone and your hip bone is connected to your heart-not exactly what I learned in anatomy class. Traditional acupuncture has been used to treat various ailments from migraines to arthritis and beyond. Qi, (pronounced chee) is the vital force or energy in our bodies. It circulates within continuous channels and flows throughout the body connecting our face to every other bone and organ. When the Qi is blocked or stagnant from stress, environmental toxins or poor diet, it is reflected in our tired, sagging, puffy faces.

So what happens during treatment? After an initial consultation with the acupuncturist we decided upon a plan to free my laugh lines and "crinkles" of wisdom around my eyes from their blocked Qi. I was taken to a cozy room where the lights were soft, the air was sweet with jasmine, and the music was serene. Then came the needles!

They are ultra-fine, sterilized stainless steel needles which are only used once. I was told I may feel a little tingling sensation, but it was painless except for some light pressure and the tingling. I became relaxed as calming warmth filled my body while I became one with the pincushion. Upon completion I was handed a mirror and my face was glowing with total beauty and I felt refreshed. The tiny lines were obviously diminished and there was no "surprised expression."

The recommended course of treatment consists of twelve weekly sessions and it may take a few treatments for the lines to begin to diminish. Remember: it took decades of living to create our lines of wisdom. As with all treatments, there are many factors that determine individual results. Make sure you choose and acupuncturist with excellent references and years of experience. My glowing experience was memorable and refreshing.

Jodi Hutchinson, founder of Darshän Beauty LLC, has her B.S. degree in Physician Assistant and worked in Cardiac Surgery for 18 years. In 2001, Jodi left her 18 year career to walk the world, which included a trek across the Himalayan Mountains. Upon returning to the states, she was given a box of exotic face crèmes. Intrigued by the product purity and bio-energy qualities, she traveled back to India to meet the founding family of the herbal company. She created Darshän Beauty LLC following her return. A journey into the Indian jungle in 2004, to walk with the tribal villagers and farmers, ensured Jodi that working conditions and wages were equitable, and that the land, rivers, and herbs were not being overharvested. Jodi then returned to the USA to find that she had unknowingly contracted a complicated case of cerebral malaria. A near-death experience would transform and reawaken her into the eternal world of "beauty beyond appearance."

For more information visit http://www.darshanbeauty.com


By Jodi Hutchinson

Cosmetic Surgery, Even For the Arm!

As we age, upper arm skin can become loose and flabby. Plastic surgeons can perform on qualifying patients who want to tighten this skin and look as good and as young as they feel.

Arm tissue relaxes and descends with aging, gravity and weight loss. The drooping of skin is from stretching and loss of supporting fat. The extra sagging can result in a significant "loose hammock" deformity from the armpit (axilla) to the elbow. Some call this a "bat wing" deformity.

An upper arm lift, also known as brachioplasty, is intended to tighten the hanging skin in the upper arms. Ideally, patients should have healthy, elastic skin. An upper arm lift can dramatically reshape your arm to bring it back in line with the rest of your body.

The main goal of an upper arm lift is very similar to other lifts in the body. Incisions are made to allow for the skin to be stretched and excess skin is removed. Sutures are then used to pull everything together tighter.

The Procedure

An upper arm lift can be a lengthy and complicated procedure compared to other cosmetic surgery procedures because the arm can accumulate more skin and fat by proportion than other areas of the body. The surgery can take several hours depending on the severity of your individual needs.

In some cases, the upper arm lift can be accomplished using only liposuction and won't require any incisions to be made. More intense upper arm lift surgery will use an incision placed in the crease of the armpit or down the inside of the arm. These incisions will be used to lift the skin, tighten the arms, remove excess fat and tighten arm ligaments. Following the upper arm lift procedure, the skin is sutured shut and a pressure garment or elastic bandage is applied to promote healthy healing.

Recovery

Upper arm lifts, especially in combination with liposuction, can produce dramatic results in the contour of the arm. The scars resulting from an upper arm lift are not considered "mature" until a year, or even two, after the surgery, and typically are not dramatic or even readily noticeable. Some individuals choose to have a scar revision after their upper arm lift surgery, in order to further reduce the appearance of scarring.

If you would like to learn more about brachioplasty and whether or not this surgery may be an option for you, please visit the website of Los Angeles' Bray Plastic Surgery Medical Center, Inc. today to schedule your initial consultation.


By Lynn Fugaro