Benefits of Plastic Surgery in Today's Modern World

In today's world, increasing numbers of people are turning to plastic surgery for a solution to problems pertaining to their appearances. What was deemed to be unchangeable is now no longer the case. Most people are not satisfied with at least one part of their body or face. Through the skills of plastic surgeons, noses have been reshaped, tummies tucked in, breasts enlarged or reduced in size, signs of ageing softened, drooping skin tightened and lots more. The list of possibilities is virtually endless.

Successful plastic surgery does have many benefits. After all, a person only has one body to live with so any improvements made to it will certainly be beneficial. The great thing about plastic surgery is that its benefits can be physical and emotional, external and internal. Here are some of the main benefits of plastic surgery:

Firstly, there are definite health benefits. One example is breast reduction. When a woman's breasts are too large for her body frame, it may cause back pain and excessive strain on the neck and shoulders. In such cases, breast reduction through plastic surgery is just about the only answer. Certain breathing problems can be corrected by septo-rhinoplasty, the plastic surgery performed on the nose. The septum of the nose is straightened and reshaped into a new and desirable form. This new position enables a clearer passageway for breathing.

Secondly, there are clear emotional and psychological benefits. A breast cancer victim after a mastectomy may have breast reconstruction surgery. This serves to restore a sense of personal body image and confidence. It goes a long way towards helping such women eliminate the thinking that they have become 'deformed' as a result of breast cancer.

In addition to the benefits above, plastic surgery patients also gain:

1. A new sense of self-esteem.

"Appearance is the most public part of the Self. How you look introduces yourself." says Dr Charles Lee, Malaysian Plastic Surgeon based in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, East Malaysia. Since the body is the only visible part of a person, your self-esteem is invariably linked to your body's appearance. If any part of it can be reshaped to appear more socially acceptable, this would definitely enhance the way you feel about yourself before others. This benefit would lead on to the next one.

2. The admiration of your friends.

Imagine the surprise of your friends when they see the 'new' you! The part of your body or face that used to draw attention for all the wrong reasons now draws admiration and affirmation.

3. The self-confidence that comes from a healthy and attractive body and face.

With better self-esteem comes greater self-confidence. And with self-confidence comes increased productivity in performance whether at work or at home. Thus, the benefits will go beyond you to affect others also.

4. Improved relationships with your partner and loved ones.

When you feel good about yourself, you send positive signals to those around you, especially your loved ones. This inevitably brings out the best in others towards you in turn.

5. You will never be shy about your body again.

Perhaps for the first time, you would be confident to go to the beach or swimming pool. You can have a body that you can be proud of. As a result, you will not be self-conscious of your appearance.

6. You can enjoy better health, proper weight loss and a slimmer body.

Once your body and facial features have been correctly shaped, all you have to do is maintain it as such. After the excess fat has been removed, keep it off. Once the body or face has been improved, care for it well. Without plastic surgery, it may take years to loose excess fat, develop good muscle tone and tighten the skin. In short, plastic surgery can be a short-cut to better health and fitness for you.

The increasing popularity of plastic surgery bears testament to its benefits. With the advancement of medical technology, plastic surgery would only become better, more affordable and best of all, more beneficial to everyone.

For the latest expert treatment and information on cosmetic and plastic surgery, visit http://www.sabahplasticsurgery.com Combine the best plastic surgery treatment with an exotic tropical holiday and save on cost by visiting http://www.beautyborneo.com Both services are superbly managed by Malaysian Certified Plastic Surgeon with over 20 years' experience, Dr. Charles Lee.


By Dr. Charles Lee

Likely Candidates and Most Popular Types of Plastic Surgery

Society is entranced with the idea of perpetual youth and many see cosmetic plastic surgery as the key to that. Here are some statistics that are not at all surprising. The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery reveals that approximately 11.5 million surgical and non-surgical procedures were done in 2005 in America alone. Out of these, the largest percentage (about 40%) was done on people in the 35-50 age group. Furthermore, above 90% of all forms of plastic surgery were performed on women.

When it comes to race, 80% of those who undergo cosmetic plastic surgery are white Caucasians. Hispanics made up 10% of clients, the largest minority group. Asians are lowest in number when it comes to going for such surgeries. All these indicate the increasing popularity and acceptance of it. But what kind of operations do people mostly go for?

Liposuction is the most popular cosmetic surgery procedure. More than 4 million procedures were performed in 2005 in the U.S. especially among the 35-50 age group. This is followed by breast augmentation, rhinoplasty (nose reshaping) and eyelid surgery particularly among the younger patients aged 19-34.

As for non-surgical cosmetic procedures, Botox injections ranked number one. Botox serves to temporarily paralyze the muscles of the face, making it impossible for the muscles to contract or tighten up and cause wrinkles to form. It is especially effective for crow's feet around the eyes and the mouth. The relaxing muscles allow the skin to lie flat thus reducing wrinkles in that particular area.

As medical science advances, there will inevitably be an ever expanding aging population as people's lifespan increases. This naturally results in more people wanting to look younger. Hence cosmetic injectibles such as Botox injections will continue to grow in popularity. The US Food and Drug Administration approval of CosmoDerm and CosmoPlast injections that do not require a prior allergy test (unlike Botox) has given people more options when it comes to injectibles. Other popular forms of non-surgical cosmetic procedures include laser hair removal, hyaluronic acid (Restylane), microdermabrasion and chemical peels.

With injections becoming increasingly common, there is a danger that people turn to doctors who are not suitably certified to administer such treatments. Herein lies the danger. One should not compromise on engaging only a Board-certified plastic surgeon to perform any type of cosmetic plastic surgery procedure, whether invasive or non-invasive and whether surgical or non-surgical.

It is said that 'When you look good, you feel good'. People of all races, age groups and gender are increasingly embracing it to improve their appearance. Whether you like it or not, this type of surgery is here to stay.

For the latest expert treatment and information on cosmetic and plastic surgery, visit http://www.sabahplasticsurgery.com - Combine the best plastic surgery treatment with an exotic tropical holiday and save on cost by visiting http://www.beautyborneo.com - Both services are superbly managed by Malaysian Certified Plastic Surgeon with over 20 years' experience, Dr. Charles Lee.


By Dr. Charles Lee

How to Avoid Bad Plastic Surgery - Ten Precautionary Steps

Cosmetic plastic surgery can produce wonderful transformation in appearance that results in greater feelings of self worth and self confidence. However notwithstanding the obvious benefits, there is the possibility of surgeries not going the way you intended.

The good news is that there is much that you can do to avoid 'plastic surgery gone bad'. If you are thinking of going for it, here are some practical things you can do to ensure you do not experience any untoward incidences.

1. Ask if your doctor is registered on the country's National Specialist Register.

Plastic surgery is a specialist field that a normal general practitioner is not qualified to perform. Hence you must ensure that the surgeon is formally certified by the country's Ministry of Health. For example in Malaysia, surgeons should be certified by the Malaysian National Specialist Register or be a member of the Malaysian Association of Plastic, Aesthetic and CranioMaxillofacial Surgeons. This ensures that the surgeon specializes in plastic, cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, has years of cosmetic surgery training, undergone extensive examinations and established the necessary competence in the surgical specialty.

2. Verify that your Doctor specializes in the procedure you're seeking.

A plastic surgeon whose specialty is hand surgery may not be the best choice to give you a breast augmentation.

3. Your expectations should be realistic.

What you envisage your appearance to be like after the operation may very well be unattainable for legitimate reasons. Examine your personal motives and be realistic.

4. Make sure that your physical and emotional health is good.

A competent plastic surgeon would give you a thorough examination of your past and present physical health and check your emotional health and motives for wanting this procedure. As with any type of operation, this requirement is non-negotiable.

5. Stop smoking if you are a smoker.

Smoking causes vascular constriction which means the blood flow to the skin is restricted. This slows down healing considerably. Thus, smoking can lead to complications and poses a hindrance to achieving the desired result through plastic surgery. Even if you cannot quit for good, abstaining from smoking for two weeks before and after the procedure is a MUST.

6. Choose a well-equipped hospital for your surgery rather than a clinic.

Clinics may not have enough of the necessary equipment or personnel needed for any complications that may arise during surgery. A well-equipped Medical Center is advised.

7. Consult at least one more physician.

There is safety in numbers. Too many less-than-qualified physicians seek to entice patients in this field with their slick promises and cut-low rates. They can sound very convincing. Be wary and at the very least, ensure that they are Board Certified in plastic surgery.

8. Get pictures and testimonials.

Any experienced surgeon with a good track record will be able to show you pictures and testimonials of former patients. It would be a good idea to see if you can speak with ex-patients.

9. Be certain you understand the costs of cosmetic surgery.

A surgeon offering a cut-low rate may not be suitably qualified. If you are considering leaving the United States for cheaper operations, you need to check whether that country adheres to an acceptable standard of medical practice. And if so, you still need to calculate all costs including air fare, hotel, meals, etc.

Also, cosmetic plastic surgery is usually not covered by medical insurance, unless they are for health-related reasons. For those on a limited budget, it is important to think about whether paying for such procedures will leave you so financially strapped that the benefits you get out of it are not worth it.

10. Be aware of the risks of plastic surgery.

All surgeries carry risks. Among the risks are infections, reaction to medications, blood clots, respiratory difficulties etc. Plastic surgery is no different. A good surgeon will inform you of all these and tell you how to avoid or minimize such risks.

11. Simultaneous multiple surgical procedures are best advised by your surgeon.

The more complicated the procedure, the higher the risks. If such an operation is absolutely necessary, your surgeon will discuss it with you.

12. Make sure you adhere to ALL the post-surgery instructions given by your surgeon.

The operational procedure ends after the surgery but the follow-up procedure that happens after that is just as important. A thorough follow-up treatment will ensure the best results of the procedure. And this can only happen if you strictly follow your surgeon's post-operation instructions.

If you bear in mind all the above information, it will greatly increase your chances of having a wonderful new you and help you avoid a bad plastic surgery outcome.

For the latest expert treatment and information on cosmetic and plastic surgery, visit http://www.sabahplasticsurgery.com Combine the best plastic surgery treatment with an exotic tropical holiday and save on cost by visiting http://www.beautyborneo.com Both services are superbly managed by Malaysian Certified Plastic Surgeon with over 20 years' experience, Dr. Charles Lee.


By Dr. Charles Lee

What are Cosmetic and Plastic Surgeries?

The term 'plastic surgery' most probably creates the idea of somehow using plastic substances in surgical procedures to remodel the shape or look of certain parts of the body. This could not be further from the truth. Contrary to the term, there is no plastic at all in such surgeries. The term 'plastic surgery' is taken from the Greek word 'plastikos' which means 'to mold or shape'.

Plastic surgery therefore is the surgical procedure where parts of the body or face are skillfully shaped by the surgeon. This type of procedure is reconstructive in nature. For someone who has congenital defects or suffered some form of disease or accident that has altered the shape or look of the body or face, plastic surgery is a way to correct the situation.

On the other hand, cosmetic surgery is performed solely to improve a person's outward physical appearance and self-esteem by correcting parts of the body or face that the patient is unhappy with. This type of procedure focuses on reducing lines and wrinkles in the face, removing body fat from a specific area, or lifting, supplementing or reducing a specific body feature such as the breasts.

Cosmetic surgery is generally not covered by health insurance due to its elective nature. Plastic surgery on the other hand, is normally covered by health insurance provided it is endorsed by the doctor to be crucial to the patient's health and subject to the terms and conditions of the insurance policy. However it is still important to discuss the planned procedure with your health insurance provider before going for the operation.

Sometimes there can be a fine line differentiating plastic from cosmetic surgery. Certain procedures can be categorized under both types. For example, in certain cases rhinoplasty may be for health reasons as well as to reconstruct a more attractive looking nose. Nevertheless, most surgeries may be classified into one category or the other. Examples of plastic surgery are breast reduction to reduce the strain on the back and shoulders, rhinoplasty to alleviate breathing problems, skin grafting to repair skin or tissue damaged by accidents or disease etc. Examples of cosmetic surgery are otoplasty, breast augmentation, blepharoplasty, tummy tucks, Botox injections etc.

These days, cosmetic or plastic surgery is no longer limited to the wealthy. It is becoming more and more within the reach of the man or woman in the street. Not only is it becoming more affordable with the advancement of medical science but it is also becoming more socially acceptable. This is largely due to the media's influence on the perception of these types of operations. It is undeniable that cosmetic and plastic surgery play an important role in increasing the quality of life for everyone in today's modern world.

For the latest expert treatment and information on cosmetic and plastic surgery, visit http://www.sabahplasticsurgery.com Combine the best plastic surgery treatment with an exotic tropical holiday and save on cost by visiting http://www.beautyborneo.com Both services are superbly managed by Malaysian Certified Plastic Surgeon with over 20 years' experience, Dr. Charles Lee.


By Dr. Charles Lee

Common Types of Cosmetic and Plastic Surgeries

There are various types of cosmetic and plastic surgeries available these days. Depending on which body part's appearance you wish to change, there is a type of surgery that can change it.

Some of the most popular types of cosmetic surgery involve adding volume to areas of the body. One of these is collagen injections. This can increase the size of certain parts of the body such as the lips.

But the biggest of the addition surgeries is breast augmentation. With this surgery, implants (usually made of saline) are inserted into a woman's breasts in order to enlarge her cup size. Many breast cancer victims have breast-rebuilding treatments in order to regain their natural body shapes and confidence. On the other hand, breast reduction is also popular. This is often necessary when a woman has very large breasts that may cause back pain and strain on the neck and shoulders.

Botox injections or face-lifts to improve appearance are extremely common especially among celebrities and others whose livelihood depends largely on their physical looks. Botox works by temporarily paralyzing muscles and fixing parts of the body in certain positions. It can be effectively used to remove laughter lines or wrinkles but is only temporary so regular visits are needed to keep the appearance they give. Likewise, face lifts help hide the natural signs of aging by tightening the skin and removing wrinkles and bags under the eyes.

Patients who have lost significant amounts of weight may find it necessary to have an arm lift or buttock/thigh lift. When an individual loses large amounts of weight, particularly at a rapid rate, the skin generally begins to sag and no amount of exercise is able to tone the sagging skin. These types of cosmetic surgical procedures are to tighten the skin.

Liposuction is a very popular cosmetic surgery option. This procedure allows the physician to suction the fat off various portions of the body to reveal a slimmer and trimmer physique. One of the most common forms of liposuction is the tummy tuck, a procedure that removes excess fat from the area around the stomach and waist.

Rhinoplasty is a cosmetic surgery procedure in which the nose is reshaped. The nose is cut open and practically remolded into a completely new and more desirable form. At times this type of surgery is required to enable the patient to breathe better.

Otoplasty is essentially the same concept, only with ears. The cartilage in ears is very moldable and soft. If someone feels that their ears protrude too much, they can have a slice cut out of the back to make them lay closer to their head. Just like in rhinoplasty, the shape can be edited in many different ways to allow the patient to choose exactly what he or she wants the new ear to look like.

Blepharoplasty or eyelid surgery is a surgical technique where the surgeon sheds out the extra fat, muscle, skin from either or both the upper and the lower eye lid to redesign the shape the eye.

Other increasingly popular forms of treatment include acne scar removal, a relatively simple operation that can change one's facial appearance in a matter of weeks, pierced body repairs and tattoo removals.

Today, with the plethora of cosmetic and plastic surgery available, just about anyone can alter their appearance in whatever ways necessary. No matter what type of such surgery is required, it is possible to find a suitably certified surgeon to do it.

For the latest expert treatment and information on cosmetic and plastic surgery, visit http://www.sabahplasticsurgery.com Combine the best plastic surgery treatment with an exotic tropical holiday and save on cost by visiting http://www.beautyborneo.com Both services are superbly managed by Malaysian Certified Plastic Surgeon with over 20 years' experience, Dr. Charles Lee.


By Dr. Charles Lee

The Rise And Rise of Cosmetic Plastic Surgery

In our 21st century, cosmetic plastic surgery has made it possible for many to appear more attractive and look younger. Thus, this form of surgery is becoming increasingly common and acceptable today. In the past, only the rich and famous could afford it while the rest of the world could only admire the end result. However nowadays, such procedures are within the reach of most people. This is the result of a combination of factors such as increasing affluence, development of financial instruments (such as installment payments) and medical advances that reduce costs while improving safety.

In 2006, statistics released by the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) showed a huge 90% increase in popularity for liposuction. In addition, breast augmentation and rhinoplasty (nose plastic surgery) is also surging in demand. The popularity of some of these common types can also be attributed to media coverage especially on celebrities who have had such procedures themselves. Mariah Carey's boob job and Michael Jackson's nose job are two well-known examples.

Increase in demand has resulted in a corresponding increase in supply which comes in many possible forms. These days some cosmetic plastic surgery procedures can even be done without general anesthetic. It is also possible for patients to undergo minor procedures within a single day without having to stay overnight at the hospital.

Despite the increased acceptance, greater affordability and safer procedures of cosmetic plastic surgery, the surgeons themselves are the first to point out that such operations should not be seen as a panacea for all ills. At times the end result may not look as appealing as the patient envisaged before the operation. In addition, there are also inherent risk factors as in any sort of surgical procedure.

Nevertheless, the benefits of cosmetic plastic surgery often outweigh the risks of adverse consequences. The many benefits include a greater sense of self-esteem, more self-confidence, improved health, better weight control and of course enhanced physical beauty. All these contribute to the rise of it through which it is possible to improve on the physical characteristics that one has been born with.

On the other hand, at times it is imperative to have plastic surgery. For example, certain breathing problems can be most effectively resolved through septorhinoplasty. Under these circumstances, doctors would almost certainly recommend it. Therefore, not all forms of plastic surgery are for the purpose of improving physical appearance.

In conclusion, the rise of it should be seen in a positive light. Through such procedures, people are able to enhance their appearances and gain all the corresponding benefits that come along with it without forking out a fortune or feeling embarrassed.

For the latest expert treatment and information on cosmetic and plastic surgery, visit http://www.sabahplasticsurgery.com - Combine the best plastic surgery treatment with an exotic tropical holiday and save on cost by visiting http://www.beautyborneo.com - Both services are superbly managed by Malaysian Certified Plastic Surgeon with over 20 years' experience, Dr. Charles Lee.


By Dr. Charles Lee

How To Prepare Your Skin for Plastic Surgery

It is important to prepare yourself before undergoing any form of surgery. Plastic surgery is no different. Insofar as plastic surgery is concerned, the part of the body that is worked on the most is the skin. Plastic surgeons will agree that the healthier your skin, the better will be your surgical result. Thus it is sensible to take some precautionary steps to prepare your skin before plastic surgery.

Here are some steps to take to ensure your skin is in optimum health prior to plastic surgery:

1. Make sure your skin stays clean and soft all the time. Wash regularly and avoid too much exposure to sunlight. Use sunblock if you have to be under the sun for any extended period of time.

2. Inform your surgeon about any skin products you have been using. Certain products such as Retinol-A can cause skin to be more reactive to laser treatment, for example.

3. If you suffer from a severe acne problem and you have to go for facial plastic surgery, it is important that you treat your acne medically before going for surgery. The bacteria found in acne may increase the risk of infection.

4. Moisturize your skin well. Moisturization helps to keep the skin supple and fresh. This facilitates the surgical process.

5. Avoid these medications and supplements before surgery, as they may increase the risk of excessive bleeding: Aspirin, Vitamin E and Ginkgo Biloba.

6. The following natural ingredients can assist the healing process: Vitamin A, Vitamin C, B Vitamins, plant-derived Calcium, Ginger and Vitamin K. These may improve the skin's defense while reducing skin stress.

7. Do not go on any fad diet programs. And do not overeat, either. Just take proper balanced meals with fresh fruits and vegetables. Drink plenty of water daily. This ensures healthy skin.

8. Stop smoking. Smoking restricts blood flow to the skin, slowing down healing considerably. There should be a moratorium on nicotine at least two weeks before AND after surgery.

A discussion with the plastic surgeon will give further explanation and information of pre-surgical actions that need to be taken for the skin to be of prime health.

For the latest expert treatment and information on cosmetic and plastic surgery, visit http://www.sabahplasticsurgery.com Combine the best plastic surgery treatment with an exotic tropical holiday and save on cost by visiting http://www.beautyborneo.com Both services are superbly managed by Malaysian Certified Plastic Surgeon with over 20 years' experience, Dr. Charles Lee.


By Dr. Charles Lee

Legal Action in Cosmetic Plastic Surgery

Cosmetic surgery is meant to improve your looks in one way or another. Liposuction would give you a slimmer waistline or firmer thighs. A facelift should result in fewer wrinkles while breast augmentation is for more attractive looking breasts. But what if the end result of cosmetic surgery is not what you envisaged it to be? What forms of redress are open to you?

Since the outcome of plastic surgery can be very subjective, it is rather difficult to make a strong legal case if you are not happy with your looks. A good case in point would be some of the celebrities who had plastic surgery. I'm not talking about the successful cases like Mariah Carey's breast implants; rather I'm referring to those who attracted media attention for all the wrong reasons like Michael Jackson's nose job. The poor results he experienced could have been due to factors other than the surgeon. The only way to successfully seek legal redress is to prove negligence on the part of the surgeon.

Furthermore, before surgery your plastic surgeon would almost certainly have given you a detailed explanation of the procedure in written form. You may have also been given other reading material describing the risks, benefits and alternatives to the plastic surgery you were going to have. Before going ahead with the surgery you would have signed a consent form. All these procedures indicate it was clear to you that the result of the surgery might not be as you fully expect.

But supposing even after all the explanations and consent given, you are still unhappy with your appearance after plastic surgery. The correct thing to do would be to complain to the surgeon himself instead of resort immediately to legal channels. It may be that your surgeon agrees with you to some extent that a better job could have been done and therefore he might perform some corrective surgery for free. You are free to bring a lawsuit against the plastic surgeon at any time but before doing so, you should consider if your case has legal merit and whether it is financially viable for you to do so.

Most lawyers would not accept plastic surgery cases unless three things are clear, based upon expert medical review. Firstly it must be determined that there was negligence and departure from good surgical practice on the part of the plastic surgeon (not just the dissatisfaction of the patient with the outcome of the surgery). Secondly, these departures must be a substantial factor in causing injury to the patient and finally, that such injury is permanent.

In conclusion we must realize that cosmetic plastic surgery carries risks just like any other form of surgery. One such risk is that the outcome might not be perfect in the opinion of the patient. But since this particular risk is subjective in nature, one should be slow in seeking legal redress against the plastic surgeon especially since various documents would have been reviewed and signed by the patient recognizing such risks. A better form of redress would be to negotiate with the surgeon to revise the procedure. This would likely be a more amicable solution to all parties.

For the latest expert treatment and information on cosmetic and plastic surgery, visit http://www.sabahplasticsurgery.com Combine the best plastic surgery treatment with an exotic tropical holiday and save on cost by visiting http://www.beautyborneo.com Both services are superbly managed by Malaysian Certified Plastic Surgeon with over 20 years' experience, Dr. Charles Lee.


By Dr. Charles Lee

Questions to Ask Before Cosmetic or Plastic Surgery

Going for any form of cosmetic or plastic surgery is an important decision. It warrants careful consideration before committing to it. Since cosmetic plastic surgery is not something most people know very much about, it is imperative to get all the facts about the particular type of cosmetic or plastic surgery you are considering.

Unfortunately, due to the money-making potential involved in cosmetic surgery, there have been a number of more unscrupulous 'surgeons' offering their services at reduced costs. These surgeons usually have little or no qualifications and avoiding them is the most important thing you can do if considering cosmetic or plastic surgery.

Selecting the right clinic can take time, and definitely isn't something you should rush into. Always select a clinic that displays recognized qualifications. A little research on the Internet will tell you whether a qualification has been earned, bought or simply printed. Only consider using a clinic that offers a one-on-one consultation with a surgeon before operating. If they don't offer this, then you should reconsider using that particular clinic.

During your appointment with the consultant plastic surgeon, ask him about his experience and qualifications. Usually the certificates will be framed on the wall of their office; if not, do not be afraid to ask. A reputable and qualified surgeon will only be too pleased to show you his certificates. Also ask him about how much experience he has in performing the type of surgery you require and what type of surgical technique he would use for you. It would be a good idea of asking for 'Before' and 'After' pictures of previous patients.

Here are some further questions you should ask pertaining to the cosmetic or plastic surgery procedure itself. These questions can ensure that you are well informed before making the important decision of whether or not to proceed with surgery.

1. How long will the procedure take?

2. How much pain or discomfort is involved, how is it controlled and how long will it last?

3. Where are the incisions made and what will the scar look like?

4. Will I get a permanent scar even after the stitches are removed?

5. Do you use proper hospitals with full facilities or just clinics?

6. What are the possible risks and potential complications and what can I do to minimize those risks myself? If you are told there are no side effects you should be very wary. No matter which type of cosmetic plastic surgery you undergo, there are bound to be some form of side effects.

7. How long is the stay in hospital?

8. Will there be swelling and how long will it last?

9. When can I have a shower or bath after the operation?

10. How long will it be before I can go back to work?

11. When will I look 'normal' again?

12. Will the results of the operation be permanent?

13. Will the operation ever need to be repeated?

14. Is there any guarantee that the final outcome will be up to my expectations?

15. How much does it cost and what is the breakdown of the fees?

16. What is not included in the fees?

17. Is there a discount if several procedures are performed at once and how much can be performed safely in one session?

18. If I want to proceed how do I set a date for surgery?

19. When is my payment due?

20. What payment methods (including financing) do you accept?

Obviously, not every one of these questions may be applicable to you. The list above is thorough enough for just about any case. If you feel comfortable with the surgeon and are satisfied with the explanations given, then you know you have done as much as possible to ensure your surgery is done safely.

For the latest expert treatment and information on cosmetic and plastic surgery, visit http://www.sabahplasticsurgery.com Combine the best plastic surgery treatment with an exotic tropical holiday and save on cost by visiting http://www.beautyborneo.com Both services are superbly managed by Malaysian Certified Plastic Surgeon with over 20 years' experience, Dr. Charles Lee.


By Dr. Charles Lee

Acne Scar Removal Surgery

Acne scar removal surgery is one way of treating the scars left behind from acne. Acne scar removal surgery can be done by your dermatologist.

If you are considering acne scar removal surgery be sure to do some research. Before you have acne scar removal surgery check out the doctor and the treatments available.

Some things your doctor will consider before acne scar removal surgery are your age and health as well as the type and severity of the scars. Before acne scar removal surgery your doctor may also need to know how you tolerate certain meds and procedures.

One type of acne scar removal surgery is called dermabrasion. When dermabrasion is used the top layers of skin are removed with a machine. This type of acne scar removal surgery should produce skin that appears smoother.

Another kind of acne scar removal surgery is the chemical peel. A chemical peel is an acne scar removal surgery procedure where the top layer of skin is removed chemically as the name implies. The skin regenerates after a chemical peel and often the appearance of the skin is improved.

Laser resurfacing is a type of acne scar removal surgery that uses a high-energy light to burn away acne-damaged skin. This acne scar removal surgery is used to minimize fine scars.

Punch grafts are an acne scar removal surgery that is used for deep acne scars. When this acne scar removal surgery is used, unscarred skin is used to replace skin that is scarred with acne.

The best acne scar removal surgery for you will be the one that you and your doctor decide on together.

Timothy Gorman is a successful Webmaster and publisher of Clear-Skin-Solutions.com. He provides more acne clearing solutions, remedies and acne skin care products that you can research in your pajamas on his website.


By Tim Gorman

Cosmetic Ear Stapling

Ear Surgery Information

Otoplasty is the medical terminology for what most people refer to as ear surgery, ear plastic surgery, cosmetic ear surgery, and ear pinning surgery.

In this procedure the goal is to put prominent ears back closer to the head and/or reduce the size of large ears. This procedure most often is performed on children between 4 and 14 years in age. This surgery may be a medical necessity for some individuals. In these type cases the surgery may be covered by insurance.

Length and details of the Ear Surgery procedure

The length of procedure usually runs 2 to 3 hours.

For this type procedure the patient, if a young child is given general anesthesia. Older children and adults are given a general or local anesthesia, with sedation.

Depending on the extent of the surgery a patient will normally undergo an outpatient surgery.

Risks and/or complications related to Ear Surgery

For most ear surgery operations the patient will experiences potential side effects consisting of throbbing, aching, swelling, redness, and numbness. All of which are temporary in their duration.

In addition there are other associated risks with this procedure that include the risk of infection of ear cartilage, excessive scarring, and blood clots requiring draining. Some surgeries could result in unequal or non-natural looking ears. In these and protrusion re occurrence cases, additional surgery could be required.

For most patients the recovery time needed should be between 5 to 7 days.

It will be necessarily to avoid strenuous activity and contact sports for 1 or more months.

Long-term results of Ear Surgery

In this procedure the results are typically permanent in nature.

How much does Ear Surgery cost?

The national average cost for a procedure the $2,700

Will my insurance cover an Ear Surgery procedure?

This surgery may be a medical necessity for some individuals. In these type cases the surgery may be covered by insurance.

Read more about Cosmetic Ear Stapling. Alan Hood is a contributing writer at Houston Medical Center

By Tim Gorman

Breast Implants - Men Speak Out!

It is difficult to know what a woman facing breast enhancement surgery is thinking when she finally makes the decision to go forward with breast implants, but to know what her male partner thinks is even more challenging.

Do the men salivate at the thought of perkier breasts that are firm and perfect looking? Or do they object to a woman changing their body with surgery, preferring instead to have an all-natural woman?

The decision to have a breast enhancement surgery, while ultimately lying with the woman having the surgery, often involves heavy consultation with the man in their life.

The man's involvement will certainly vary, but particularly post-surgery, the man needs to be willing to understand and accept the role they must play in care-giving.

The first few days following a breast enhancement surgery can be filled with pain, discomfort, and bruising, and great care must be given in administering assistance to the patient. The advice for many men is that they take off work at least the first day after surgery to assist the woman.

There are men whose wives or significant others decide to have breast implants for any number of reasons, but the overwhelming feedback received concerns how the woman reacts after surgery.

One man reported that his wife had had several biopsies on one breast, and the result was a B cup on one side and a C cup on the other, making the woman self-conscious.

After deciding to go through with the surgery, the man reported that he had never seen his wife's face light up the way that it did, and that in twenty-one years of marriage, he had never seen her voluntarily shop for a tank top or bathing suit.

He did reinforce that the post-operative care was considerable, and advises making sure there are plenty of pillows available, water, juices of varying flavors, and that there should be the understanding that neither person would be getting sleep in the first few days.

Another man stated that when it comes to the choice of having implants or not, he had no strong opinions either way for his wife. He stated that when he is intimate with his wife, he isn't thinking about whether she has silicone or saline, but he is thinking about her as a whole person, not as those two parts of her body.

Ultimately, his wife decided to have a breast enhancement, and he says that every time he touches one of them, he doesn't think about what is inside at all.

There are also men who are more concerned with their partner's health than with the aesthetic outcome. After all, it is not a simple surgery procedure, and waiting in the hospital for your loved one to come out of surgery is also difficult. Not to mention, you then have to be the primary caregiver for several days.

The bottom line, however, is that for a majority of men, it matters more that their spouse is having breast implants for their self-image, to make themselves feel better, and not for any other reason.

Once you've decided that you want a breast augmentation, knowing what size you want is important to the surgery's success. Relying on a good breast implant sizing system is key to a successful procedure. Choose Envision Implants for a sizing system that works. http://www.envisionimplants.com


By A Aaronson

Face Lift, Brow Lift, Eyelid Lift - Which Do I Need?

If you are considering some facial plastic surgery to correct the effects of aging, you might be wondering what the differences are between a face lift, brow lift, and eyelid lift procedures are. Let's take a quick look at each of the three procedures to help clarify their differences a bit better for you in your mind.

The Face Lift

One of the most common facial cosmetic surgeries performed today is the face lift. A facelift can help older patients who have sagging, wrinkled skin on their face to achieve a more youthful appearance. Simply the act of tightening and smoothing the facial skin, and some removal of underlying fat deposits, can help to define facial features and shave years off of your appearance.

As you age, the muscles of your face relax and fat deposits begin to develop where they were not present in the past. The facelift surgical procedure entails the removal of some of the fat which has developed in the facial area, and in addition the muscles and skin are pulled tighter on the face. The entire procedure takes between 2 to 4 hours to do and recovery time is generally at least a couple of weeks.

Good candidates for a facelift are those people who want to regain their youthful look, rather than patients who want to change their appearance. Generally, these are performed on patients who are 60 years of age or older.

The Brow Lift

Many people do not need a full procedure; they simply need a brow lift, also known as a forehead lift, to help correct wrinkles and sagging in the upper face. Similar to the facelift, the brow lift is used to help patients gain a more youthful appearance, but is done on a younger group of people, generally between the ages of 40 and 60.

The brow lift is much less invasive then a complete facelift because only the muscles and fat of the brow area are worked on during the procedure. This makes recovery time much less than for a facelift, yet offers excellent results.

The Eyelid Lift

An eyelid lift, also known as blepharoplasty, is simply the removal of fatty deposits around the eyelids and removal of excess skin in the area. Fat deposits in your eyelids can make your eyes appear puffy or swollen. This added fat in the area can give you the appearance of being tired and older than you really are. In addition, fatty deposits in the eyelids themselves can cause vision issues.

In an eyelid lift procedure the excess fat is removed, the excess skin in the area is trimmed away, and the eyes are brought back to a much younger looking state. The procedure is not terribly invasive and the recovery time is very reasonable.

As you can see, there are vast differences between a facelift, a brow lift, and an eyelid lift surgical procedure. However, by working with a board certified plastic surgeon, you can determine the best course of action to help remove the signs of the passage of time on your face.

For face lift for men, New Jersey men seek out the skills and training found in a board certified surgeon, such as Dr. Paul Parker. Dr. Parker of Parker Center for Plastic Surgery offers information and before and after face lift pictures online at http://www.parkercenter.net/
By A Aaronson

Financing Plastic Surgery

Plastic surgery today is something that many people just like you and I consider for one reason or another. For some people, plastic surgery is needed to fix the aftermath of an accident or illness, while other people simply choose to improve upon their natural born body.

With this new availability of plastic surgery to the masses, the issue of how to pay for procedures is on a lot of people's minds these days.

Unless your plastic surgery procedure is medically necessary, most insurance companies will not pay for it - at all. Thankfully, today many financial companies realize the need for loans designed especially for people who want to have expensive medical or dental work performed.

Rather than have to charge thousands of dollars to a high interest credit card, many financial institutions now offer what are referred to as "medical loans." With a medical loan you can finance the cost of your surgery and make payments on it over time. And, unlike credit cards, the interest rate on a medical loan is usually at a very reasonable rate as long as you have decent credit scores.

Some people have a hard time justifying the financing of their plastic surgery. It is an elective procedure. However, it is often helpful to think of it as an investment in yourself in your self-image and self-esteem.

For example, if your vehicle needed to have body work done on it, you would take it to the shop and if you couldn't afford the bill all at once, then you would put it on a credit card. This allows you to drive around in a nice car and make payments on the work that was done.

Similarly, financing your plastic surgery procedure allows you to have the work done to improve the look of your body and then pay it off over time, rather than having to come up with a large amount of money all at once.

If you need assistance in paying for your plastic surgery procedure, the first place you should start is at your doctor's office. Many physicians' offices can help guide you to reputable finance companies who offer medical loans. Medical loans from financial companies are generally available for amounts between $1,000 and $25,000 and usually offer terms of payback over 24 to 60 months.

If you would prefer not to work with a bank or financing company, many plastic surgery clinics can work with you directly to offer you a payment plan. Some plastic surgery clinics will allow you to pay for part of your surgery up-front and then make payments, while others will allow you to have the procedure and make payments after it is completed. The exact payment options depend on the plastic surgery clinic you choose to use.

Just as with any other financing you agree to in your life, make sure that before you ever sign anything promising to pay, you completely understand the terms of repayment and the exact costs of the loan as well. If the interest rate or payments are too high for you, shop around and find yourself a better deal.

Financing plastic surgery can be a great way to get the medical care you need or want today, and to spread the cost out over time to make it more affordable. However, you need to understand your financing options and choose from them wisely. By working with your plastic surgery clinic, you can find the best financing terms available to you.

In San Francisco, plastic surgery payment options can suit any budget. In his two Bay Area offices, Dr. Roy Kim offers information, before and after pictures, and financing options for cosmetic surgery. http://www.drkim.com/


By A Aaronson

Surgical Options for Unhappy Chins

Chin augmentation surgery (also known as chin implant surgery) is a common facial plastic surgery that brings balance to the facial structure by correcting a chin problem due to congenital deficiency, age-related bone resorption, or facial trauma.

Why Chin Implants?

Chin implants can be used for either cosmetic or reconstructive enhancement of the jaw line and will provide a more natural-looking break between your neck and face. The goal of a chin implant is to give greater definition to your chin and provide balance with the rest of your face.

A weak chin can make your nose appear large and can make an already prominent nose seem even larger. A weak chin may also give the appearance of a fleshy neck. A chin that is too prominent may give the appearance of having too small of a nose and may throw the face off balance. The end result of chin augmentation surgery is to achieve a balanced relationship within the structure of the face.

The Procedure

Insertion of a chin implant may take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. During the procedure, your cosmetic surgeon will select the proper size and shape implant to enhance your appearance and will insert the implant into a pocket over the front of the jawbone. The small incision to create the pocket and insert the implant is placed inside the mouth, along the lower lip or in the skin just under the chin area.

The chin is usually taped after surgery to minimize swelling and discomfort. Sutures in the skin will be removed in five to seven days or the sutures will dissolve. Most patients experience some discomfort and swelling in the affected area for several days following surgery. Smiling and talking will be difficult during the healing process, and black and blue marks may be visible around your chin and neck. Your surgeon will instruct you on post-surgery care of the surgery site.

With chin surgery, as with any facial surgery, you may feel and look better in a short period of time. Certain activities will be restricted, however, especially those that may jar or bump the face. Surgical risks will be discussed with you at the time of your consultation.

To learn more about chin implant surgery or any other facial plastic surgery in the Pittsburgh area, please visit the website of Dr. James J. Barber today.


By Lynn Fugaro