Common Cosmetic Surgery Procedures

Have you recently decided that you would like to improve your physical appearance, namely by way of cosmetic surgery? If so, have you already decided on a course of treatment? Although a cosmetic surgeon can help you make your decision, there are a number of benefits to having a good idea of what you want before you attend a consultation appointment.

So, what type of cosmetic surgery should you undergo? If you still aren't sure yet, you may want to first take the time to familiarize yourself with some common procedures. To help get you started, a few of your surgical options are highlighted below and briefly summarized.

Mammoplasty is a term that is used to commonly describe cosmetic surgical procedures that are performed on the breasts. As for what these procedures are, there are three main ones. A breast lift involves the reshaping of the breasts. It is often performed to reduce the saggy skin that results from excess weight loss and aging. Breast augmentation, which is also commonly referred to as a breast enlargement, involves the use of implants, most often silicone, to increase breast size. On the other hand, breast reduction involves the reduction of tissue and skin to reduce the size of the breasts.

A facelift is another common cosmetic surgery procedure that is performed. Typically, those who are looking to reduce or completely eliminate their wrinkles and slow the signs of aging opt for facelifts. Cosmetic facelift surgeries are also commonly known as rhinoplasty.

Liposuction is another common cosmetic surgery procedure that is performed on men and women. Liposuction involves the removal of excess body fat from problem areas. These problem areas are typically the abdominal area, the thighs, and the underarms. Liposuction should not be confused with gastric bypass surgery and other similar procedures. These types of surgeries are often considered part of a weight loss plan, whereas liposuction isn't typically. With liposuction, a small amount of fat, usually between five to ten pounds, is removed.

When we often think of cosmetic surgery, the phrase "going under the knife," is often the first thing that comes to mind. While most cosmetic surgeries are considered invasive, not all require the breaking of the skin. This is thanks to laser surgery. Laser skin resurfacing is another common cosmetic procedure that is performed by qualified surgeons. Laser skin resurfacing is often use to smooth out imperfections, including small scars, stretch marks, wrinkles, and well as to remove tattoos or birthmarks. Laser surgery can also be used to remove unwanted hair, as well as to reduce the need for glasses and contacts.

In keeping with cosmetic procedures that don't involve actual cutting, there is that of chemical peels. Although chemical peels are offered by a number of establishments, including day spas, you may find the most comfort undergoing them at a qualified cosmetic surgery center. Chemical peels, as with laser skin resurfacing, can reduce the appearance of scars, wrinkles, stretch marks, and acne.

In addition to the above mentioned cosmetic surgery procedures, which focus on the body and skin in general, cosmetic dentistry should also be examined. After all, what good would a "new body," do if your teeth aren't up to standard? Cosmetic density is a field that is increasing in popularity, as more individuals start to take note of the health and appearance of their teeth. Common surgical procedures involved in cosmetic dentistry include the insertion of a dental implant and a gum lift.

As you can see, you have a number of different options when looking to improve your physical appearance by way of cosmetic surgery. What is even more amazing is that these are just a few of your options. Other areas that people, just like you, target include the buttocks, the chin, the checks, the eyelids, and the nose. As a reminder, a qualified cosmetic surgeon should be able to help you decide on the best course of action, so schedule a consultation appointment today.

By Miodrag Trajkovic

Cosmetic Surgery Abroad - Is It Really Cheaper?

Are you looking to undergo cosmetic surgery? Regardless of what type of procedure you are looking to have, whether it be liposuction or a facelift, you may be concerned with cost. In fact, cost is a concern of many hopeful cosmetic surgery patients.

Affordable prices and cosmetic surgery aren't always two things that are associated with each other. That is why those who are on a budget often examine cosmetic surgery abroad. You may be doing the same thing, but is it really cheaper? In all honesty, yes and no.

Although a mixed answer isn't likely what you wanted to hear, it is the truth. There are a number of qualified cosmetic surgeons overseas who are known for producing quality, amazing, and flawless results. The only difference, in some cases, is that the surgical procedures do not cost the same. This is due to the fact the cost of living has an impact on the sale of services and goods. Since the cost of living in the United States is quite high, many individuals, like you like, look abroad.

Although you may be able to find cheap cosmetic surgery procedures, like liposuction, facelifts, and excess skin removal, available abroad, there are some important points that you will first want to take into consideration. These points, a few of which are outlined below, should be examined before you start making your travel arrangements and before you officially book your appointment.

The overall cost of undergoing cosmetic surgery abroad should be examined. You need to examine more than just the cost of surgery. What about the cost and the time that it will take to get a passport? The cost of airline reservations should also be examined. How do you intend to travel once you arrive at your destination? Examine the cost of public transportation or the cost of renting a car.

It is also extremely important that you examine the length of your stay. Some cosmetic procedures, including full body lifts, aren't just get up and run procedures. You may need to return to have a post-surgery checkup, return for additional work, or you may have to return if complications arise. This can impact your cost of travel, as well as the length of your trip. How long will you need to stay at a hotel? How much work will you end up missing?

Perhaps, the greatest point that needs to be taken into consideration, when examining cosmetic surgery abroad, is safety. As it was previously stated, there are some cosmetic surgeons abroad who do produce flawless results, but the others can do more damage to your body. Not all countries have the same medical standards, rules, and restrictions that the United States does. This means that there is an increased chance of complications, including a staph infection from unclean instruments.

If you do opt for cosmetic surgery abroad, it is important that you do the proper amount of research first. You can use the internet. Once you have the name of the surgeon who would perform your surgery, perform a standard internet search with the name. Are there any complaints or warnings posted online? If so, it may be best to examine other abroad surgeons or even stay closer to home. In fact, you may simply just want to target the largest city that is closest to your home. This should give you more options, qualifications, and prices to choose from
By Miodrag Trajkovic

Cosmetic Surgery Can Enhance Your Body and Your Health

Deciding to have cosmetic surgery is a critical decision, and so is selecting a cosmetic surgeon.

Whether you are contemplating cosmetic or reconstructive cosmetic surgery, you want the skill of a doctor who has experience-surgical training and experience, specifically in cosmetic surgery. Their educational background, training and overall experience is what makes them qualified to perform your personal cosmetic or reconstructive procedure.

Choosing a qualified cosmetic surgeon who has the right credentials is critical to achieving a successful outcome when you have a cosmetic surgery procedure. Perhaps you are looking for a doctor with a good bedside manner, recent cosmetic surgery magazines in the waiting room, or a fashionable dresser. Some may look for the most costly physician, while others look for the least expensive. Whatever your criteria, there is information available to assist you in selecting the ideal cosmetic surgeon to meet your needs.

From cosmetic surgery and reconstructive surgery to weight loss and vein treatments, a cosmetic surgeon can help alleviate your ailments and help create the body you always dreamed of having. You may have tried diet and exercise, and the plethora of aids that are on the market, but to no avail. At last, you may have found your answer.

Cosmetic surgeons can reshape the look of body parts through cosmetic surgery. Some of the most known body parts people want to enhance through surgery include:

· Eyes: Correct drooping upper eyelids or remove puffy bags underneath the eyes
· Breasts: Increase or reduce the size of breasts or reshape sagging breasts
· Face: Remove facial wrinkles, creases or acne scars
· Nose: Alter the shape of the nose
· Ears: Reduce the size of large ears or set protruding ears back closer to the head
· Hair: Fill in balding areas with one's own hair
· Tummy: Flatten the abdomen

Cosmetic surgery consists of specialty regions associate with personal enhancements and body reconstruction for an enhanced appearance or function. A cosmetic surgeon who specializes in these types of procedures can work with you to develop a personalized plan of action for your preferences.

Reconstructive Surgery is accomplished on abnormal body parts and usually are caused by developmental abnormalities, infection, congenital defects, tumors, trauma, or disease. Examples are skin grafts for burn victims, hand surgery, tumor removal, and breast reduction and breast reconstruction. A cosmetic surgeon who specializes in reconstructive surgery will help patients augment these body parts that may be difficult to alter.

Cosmetic treatments require educated decision-making. You need to know who the best possible doctors are for each plastic surgery procedure, the recovery time and appropriate expectations. You need to research the types of surgeries, the doctors background and all the details from prior to the procedure, during and after, so you know what to expect and choose to willingly under go the treatment.

By Tyra Smith

Plastic Surgery in the Philippines - Medical Tourism

Cosmetic surgery tourism is a price driven phenomenon that has grown by leaps and bounds over the last few decades. Popular destinations for cosmetic surgery tourism include Argentina, Brazil, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Malaysia, Mexico, Philippines, Poland, South Africa, and Thailand. What does the Philippines have to offer over other popular cosmetic surgery hotspots?

The primary advantage of having surgery done in the Philippines is the cost. Because of the present exchange rate (1 USD: 41 Pesos as of April 2008), the cost of plastic surgery in the Philippines is only a fraction of the cost in other countries particularly the United States and Europe. On the average, a typical breast augmentation will cost around 7000-8000 USD in the United States. In the Philippines, this will cost around 3000-4000 USD at the present market rate.

Although cost is a primary consideration, it should not be the only factor to determine one's choice of surgeon. Wherever you are in the world, choosing the right plastic surgeon is the most important decision you will have to make. In the Philippines, there are a number of fully trained and highly skilled Plastic Surgeons who underwent formal training in plastic and reconstructive surgery.

The Philippine Association of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons, Inc (PAPRAS) is the only organization that accepts fellowship training for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. After training, they undergo certification by the Philippine Board of Plastic Surgery (PBPS) which is the only organization tasked by the Philippine College of Surgeons (PCS) to grant board certification in the field of Plastic Surgery.

State-of-the-art technology and professional medical expertise are offered by most Philippine hospitals and out-patient surgery centers. Patients can be assured of first class healthcare comparable to world class standards. Be sure to ask if the center is accredited by the Department of Health.

Filipinos are known to be cheerful, caring, and compassionate. They are warm and very hospitable. Nursing care provided by Filipinos in Britain is legendary as is in the United States. This holds the same for doctors. Their unique characteristics makes them excel in the healthcare industry.

The language barrier can be very frustrating especially for patients. Imagine trying to convey something to your surgeon and all he does is nod or shake his head. Most Filipinos are fluent in English. This is an important advantage in healthcare professions. Communication between patient and surgeon is of utmost importance during initial consultation as well as the post-operative period. It helps make the surgical experience a more "pleasurable" one.

Surgery in the Philippines offers distinct advantages to potential patients of cosmetic surgery. Low costs, highly qualified plastic surgeons, and world class facilities makes the Philippines a potential site in the cosmetic tourism industry.

By Joel Unson

Female Plastic Surgeons - Firsthand Knowledge is Invaluable

Cosmetic Procedures - Factors to Consider

If you are considering a cosmetic procedure such as breast augmentations, then you should be applauded for not being afraid to make changes to promote your self image, but you should also be sure to choose the proper cosmetic surgeon in order to make sure that your procedure is a success and that you feel completely comfortable with your care provider.

There are many factors to consider, and while many of these factors can be objective in nature, the bottom line is that you need to make sure to trust your instincts in regards to the 'fit' you experience between you and your prospective cosmetic surgeon, as you will depend on this person heavily during this process. Aside from fit, there are factors to consider when choosing a cosmetic surgeon, and they can be separated into 'tangible' and 'intangible' categories.

Tangible Factors

Regardless of other issues, any cosmetic surgeon you choose needs to possess the necessary experience and qualifications to ensure that your procedure will be completed properly. Many people tend to lump these two factors together, but they should be analyzed separately, as they are not necessarily mutually inclusive. In regards to experience, your cosmetic surgeon should have at least 10 years of practical, hands-on experience that includes multiple surgeries, many different types of patients in their working history, a sound approach to the practice that can only be learned by running a practice and an almost obsessive attention to detail and patient satisfaction. You should also be sure to understand where your cosmetic surgeon is licensed to practice. Qualifications, and the amount of weight that should be given to them, should begin with schooling. Specifically, if you are going to have surgery, you should work with a cosmetic surgeon who has an educational history in surgery - namely, a diploma and/or fellowships from medical colleges that are renowned and fully accredited. You should also make sure that your prospective cosmetic surgeon is board-certified by such entities as the American Board of Plastic Surgery, and many of these qualifications will lead to teaching experience as well, which is also invaluable.

Intangible Factors

Aside from finding a 'fit,' you should also consider factors that could lead to the best fit. One of the most prevalent in general is familiarity with any patient's situation. When this notion is applied to breast augmentation, many patients will feel as though knowledge of being a woman will help provide the doctor with the perspective necessary to perform the procedure at a level that will satisfy the patient.

Of course, personal issues of importance are just that - personal. However, aside from the tangible factors such as education and experience that you need to consider, the intangible factors of fit and perspective are also critical in regards to your overall experience and satisfaction level with the improvements you'll be making.

By Andrew Sarski

Affordable Breast Augmentation - Cosmetic Plastic Surgery

Breast augmentation or augmentation mammaplasty is an aesthetic surgery done to enlarge small, hypoplastic, underdeveloped breasts, performed to balance asymmetric breasts due to post mastectomy reconstruction, and give breast volume to women who have given birth. The operation is usually performed when the breast reaches its mature and final size after puberty at approximately 18 y/o. There are instances however when it can be done earlier such as when one is dealing with congenital breast hypoplasia with significant patient confidence and social issues.

A comprehensive consultation with your certified cosmetic plastic surgeon is the first step one should do if entertaining thoughts of a breast augmentation or augmentation mammaplasty. One should always remember that the outcome is basically reasonable and realistic improvement and never unachievable and impossible "perfection". This is particularly true if the procedure is being done for reconstructive purposes as when performed after a mastectomy. All patients are screened for emotional stability. Having a "new" look from a breast augmentation will never guarantee a glamorous and exciting life. The procedure will just enhance your appearance and potentially give you that push in self confidence. Realistically this is what breast augmentation may just achieve for you. There are no guarantees. How you handle the positive physical gains of an augmentation mammaplasty is actually up to each patient. It should be kept in mind that the objective of breast augmentation are breasts that look fuller and more natural in appearance.

A simple Breast augmentation takes approximately an hour or two. It may take longer to complete if combined with other cosmetic plastic surgery procedures. The procedure may be safely done in an outpatient setting or in a hospital basis under general anesthesia. Once under general anesthesia one will be sleeping soundly all throughout surgery. Local anesthesia may be infiltrated around the breasts in addition to general anesthesia.

There are several incisions which could be utilized by your plastic surgeon in his approach for placing the breast implant. The inframammary approach makes use of an incision just below the inframammary fold wherein the lower part of the breast connects with the chest. A periareolar approach is placed around the inferior border of the areola. The transaxillary approach utilizes an incision in the armpit. Each technique has its own advantages and potential downside.

Generally, the plastic surgeon lifts the breast tissue up together with the muscle to create a pocket for the implant. At times he may prefer creating a pocket without lifting the muscle. This is called the subglandular or subpectoral/submuscular placement of implants. There are numerous factors that come into play in deciding which technique to use. Your plastic surgeon will discuss everything with you.

Wound closures are always finely and meticulously done by your cosmetic plastic surgeon. Scars are natural consequences of any incision or surgery. Your cosmetic plastic surgeon will try his best to keep them well concealed and hardly noticeable as possible. Following surgery, dressings will be applied over the wounds while bandages shall have to be maintained over the superior pole of the breasts to hold in place and prevent migration of the implants.

All surgeries including cosmetic plastic surgeries have potential risks which all patients should be aware of. Bleeding, infection, paresthesias, and healing problems are all possible though relatively not so common. It is prudent to always inform your plastic surgeon of any bothersome and persistent concerns. Swelling and bruising/ skin discolorations are common and expected and usually resolve in a week or two. Bruisings are expected and go away in 1 or 2 weeks. A sense of numbness and tightness may be present which eventually improves and subsides. Post breast augmentation patients are instructed rest for at least a day and ordered to avoid any exertions. A sports bra shall replace the bandages in a few days while sutures will be out after a week. Most patients do return to work after approximately 2 weeks. Optimal results are seen after about 3 months.

Each would be plastic surgery patient is strongly encouraged to consult with a certified cosmetic plastic surgeon. Everyone has to be properly and thoroughly informed regarding the procedures they would like to have. Your certified cosmetic plastic surgeon will display adequate knowledge, skill and care prior, during and after surgery.

By Edwin Paul Magallona

Plastic Surgery Gone Bad - The Facelift From Hell

Having plastic surgery in the form of a facelift is pretty common, and the surgeons have gotten quite good at it. However, there are horror stories about face lifts that have gone bad.

The most common bad face lift is when the skin is stretched too tight. If you live near a retirement community, you may notice a lot of the older women walking around with "that alert look" or a "look of constant amazement" on their face. Sometimes it seems that the surgeon pulled the skin so tight, that they cannot close their eyes. Many times the skin will stretch out with time and face returns to normal looking, but sometimes, it never does.

The next most common bad facelift is when the face ends up with scars. Most plastic surgeons are very good at small sutures, that leave little if any scaring, but occasionally, the scars never go away. There are a lot of different reasons for this, infection, reaction to the stitches, skin type, the list goes on. Sometimes, the surgeon just blows it, and the patient ends up scarred. Sometimes a second operation will be necessary to keep the patient from looking like something from a horror movie.

The best way to prevent these bad face lift surgery experiences from happening to you is be sure that your surgeon is well qualified. He may be more expensive that the guy operating out of his garage, but he is less likely to leave you scarred for life.

If you have a lot of sagging skin or numerous wrinkles, you may want to minimize the amount of stretching that your surgeon does. You may end up with some of your wrinkles left behind, but it is a better looking alternative than having "that alert look" and not being able to sleep at night because your eyes will not close anymore.

Having a facelift is a great way to look younger. You go to sleep and you wake up ten years younger, what is not to like about that?

A face lift is a great way to look younger almost overnight. Before you have face lift surgery, you should learn what the pitfalls are. You can learn more at http://www.my-new-face.com

By Sydney Heiden

Second City Cosmetic Surgeons Are Still Number One

Not that long ago, people were reluctant to reveal that they had had "work done" on their faces or bodies. Perhaps people did not want to seem vain, or maybe they wanted to give the illusion that Mother Nature had blessed them with eternal youth and unparalleled metabolism. For whatever the reason, it was an unmentionable subject. Therefore, a tummy tuck might be referred to as some sort of necessary abdominal surgery. Face lifts and nose jobs were habitually denied. This secretive attitude is still often maintained by celebrities, and the cosmetic surgery histories of the stars are still trendy topics of conversation.

Today, the average person is not so reticent about elective surgical procedures, and there are so many options for looking younger and enhancing one's appearance. There certainly is no shame in wanting to present your best face to the world, so to speak. To that end, finding a cosmetic surgeon in Chicago is something of a no-brainer. The city is renown for its selection of world-class, professional surgeons.

They offer a complete line of cosmetic surgery procedures, including some of the most modern techniques in the world. For instance, the newly introduced Perma Lip implants are now being offered. These implants are a permanent solution for those in search of amazingly full lips. In addition, Chicago-based surgeons offer mesotherapy as an alternative to more invasive measures to accomplish lots of objectives such as cellulite reduction, pain relief, scar fading, anti-aging, hair loss reversal, and varicose vein relief. There is always something new in the world of cosmetic surgery, and they pride themselves on being state of the art.

Finding a cosmetic surgeon Chicago residents trust is a relatively simple matter. These surgeons are among the leaders in their field, and they enjoy a national reputation. Having written textbooks on cosmetic surgery, they also have introduced new instruments and techniques and taught their uses to other physicians. They have traveled the globe to learn from others, as well. Dedicated to providing the best for their patients, they are continually evolving their practice in search of excellence.

By Fabian Toulouse

Weight Loss Surgery - Stomach Stapling

Progress in the surgical weight loss medical field has led to all sorts of various treatment options which have each had their own set of successes and failures. As medical technology expands and time reveals the success rates associated with certain treatments, medical professionals can decide which treatments are best and when. Certain treatments may be altered or abandoned to keep the health of patients in tact.

One popular weight loss treatment was stomach stapling to restrict its size, in effect limiting the amount of food that would enter the stomach and be digested. Though success was seen overall with this procedure, certain complications arose with stapling the stomach in certain ways, particularly horizontal stapling. This method alone did not achieve the kind of weight loss that patients were looking for. Modern technology is this area has expanded this treatment option to include a restrictive procedure like stapling yet in addition to a band that is wrapped around the pouch created by the stapled area. This procedure was generally abandoned in the US after success rates were not high enough to warrant its use. Patients were regaining weight after losing it which resulted in the decision to look to other options to halt weight gain.

All in all, stomach stapling lost its appeal due to the ease with which the body could over time develop greater abilities to hold and digest more foods. It is important to keep in mind that all weight loss procedures have risks and less than flawless results. More often than not, what causes much of the less than stellar long term results is the overall indecision on behalf of patients to adopt a more healthful lifestyle. Weight loss treatments can help the body to lose weight sure, but not to keep it off necessarily. Especially over the long term, it only makes sense to adopt a healthier way to treat the body, a healthier way to eat, move, and live. Since most weight loss surgeries are not necessarily cheap and not covered by major health insurance providers, it is important to value your investment. By keeping track of your health, diet, and exercise routine, you can really keep your weight within a healthy limit. Furthermore, doing so is empowering and helps with self control and balance in all things.

Like stomach stapling, all surgeries that assist with weight loss and gain, either by restricting intake or absorption, have benefits and risks. After spending the time and money to have a surgeon help you get on a healthier path, it is important to protect that investment and do what you can to keep that surgery working for you and not against you. As modern medicine advances onward, there may be new surgeries that develop, similar to stomach stapling, that offer some consolation to those who find keeping a healthy weight to be a challenge. As time goes on, these sorts of advances will obviously make surgical care even more effective. But at the end of the day, and the surgery, each patient is responsible for their own health and once you leave that clinic post-operation, your health and weight are in your hands.

By Elisa Cruz

Weight Loss Surgery - Liposuction

After all the diets, the exercising, the reversals, and the feelings of failure, many people decide that their unhealthy weight may be a way of life, unavoidable and the way they must live life. With modern medical treatments out there, this need not be the case. When changes in diet and fitness do not provide the desired results, there are options.

Liposuction is one popular weight loss option for those who have had a difficult and challenging experience with weight loss. A healthy body weight and a healthy body image are important to both physical and emotional health. To remain happy and satisfied with your physical body, you may have tried diets and exercise without success for whatever reason and you are ready to take liposuction into consideration. You are ready to sit with a surgeon and discuss your options.

Prior to meeting with a surgeon, it is important to get an idea of what your own motives and goals are. For some, liposuction is a treatment of choice for minor pockets of fat, and those who have not tried with devotion to lose weight the natural way. Liposuction is not a minor procedure and the body must be treated with the utmost respect. If you are considering weight loss surgery, ask yourself a few questions. Why do I want weight loss surgery? What are my motives, my goals? How do I feel about the risks involved? Have I really tried to lose weight by committing to a diet and exercise which help the body to shed the pounds I am seeking to lose through liposuction? Am I prepared for the financial commitment that is related to weight loss surgery? All of these questions can help to put your weight loss situation into some perspective. It is vital to be fully aware of your choices behind your decisions.

By asking yourself such questions, you can get a better idea of whether weight loss treatments are right for you. Furthermore, being aware of both the benefits and the risks associated with such treatments is mandatory for anyone wishing to undergo such procedures. Once you have decided what route you decide to take, it is best to explore the facts and modern options related to that. For every person, weight loss varies and every body type is different. Some have a harder time shedding pounds than others. One's metabolism can affect this. One's lifestyle habits can also affect this.

It is important to note that losing weight via surgical procedures does not guarantee a healthy weight for life. The body is perfectly capable of regaining weight should you not adhere to a new and healthier lifestyle. The body does not care if you have had weight loss treatments performed. With this in mind, it is always a good idea to be aware of the limitations associated with modern medicine. To stay healthy, you must commit to a healthy lifestyle and no amount of modern medicine can change that. The best option is to decide whether or not you have the drive to lose weight naturally, or the physical ability, and from there to meet with a trusted plastic surgeon who can answer your questions.

By Elisa Cruz