Plastic Surgery News @ Better Looks in Costa Rica

Ambulatory Phlebectomy Vein Treatment in Costa Rica

2011-11-13T09:20:00.001-08:00

Ambulatory phlebectomy is a procedure that consists in the removal of varicose veins on the surface of the legs. It can be done at your Better Looks doctor’s office under local anesthesia in Costa Rica. This vein treatment involves making tiny punctures or incisions through which the varicose veins are removed; these incisions are so small that no stitches are required afterwards.

Veins are very collapsible, which means that even large veins may be removed through the tiny incisions used in this technique. The patient is able to walk following the procedure. Ambulatory phlebectomy is recommended for medium and large varicose veins.

Most patients experience little to no discomfort and generally don’t even need pain medication after this treatment. In fact, you may stand and walk right after treatment, then return to work the next day.

For a Vein removal surgery (ambulatory phlebectomy), your Better Looks physician begins by numbing the area with a local anesthetic; this means that the procedure is virtually pain free. Small incisions (as small as 1mm) are made on the outside of the vein. A tiny hook is then inserted into the incision and a small portion of the varicose vein is removed. This is repeated until the entire vein has been eliminated. Ambulatory phlebectomy is a quick procedure, and because the incisions are so tiny, no stitches are required.

For the removal of varicose veins, doctors have actually developed a few procedures from which to choose from.

Surgery

The objective of this procedure is to remove as many of the problematic veins as possible and is performed under general anesthesia. At all moments, doctors try to maintain the 'deep veins' intact, since these change in these veins can cause serious circulatory problems, especially the saphenous vein (which runs the groin to the ankle).

Incisions are made in the problem areas in other to remove the varicose veins. Since these are superficial veins, they can be removed without complication, since they do not have a significant role in returning blood to the heart and taking them out does not affect the circulation of the leg at all.

This procedure can take up a few hours, since it is tedious and precise. By removing the problematic veins, the pain and discomfort the patient was experienced disappears. However, this vein surgery does leave scars, so you most keep this in mind. The more widespread and detailed the procedure, the more time it will take for new varicose veins to surface.

Laser therapy

This newly developed treatment is being experimented with by some of the most experienced surgeons in the removal of varicose veins. The objective of this procedure is to concentrate a continuous stream of high-intensity light to destroy or cut tissue.

Since this procedure is relatively new in the industry, its effectiveness hasn't really been determined, however, the results of varicose treatment using this therapy are highly promising and can have left many satisfied patients feeling better about themselves. For further information, please click here for more information.

Sclerotherapy

Please visit the section of our site dedicated to this treatment for further information. You can find it here.

Carboxytherapy Cellulite Treatment

2011-11-05T09:26:00.000-07:00

Carboxytherapy consists in the therapeutic use of carbon dioxide (CO2) administered under the skin, where fat deposits are found. This innovative cellulite treatment has turned out to be one of the best treatments with which to combat cellulite, excess fat and corporal and/or facial aging. The administration of CO2 in places where cellulite appears allows the recovery of the smoothness of skin by providing proper circulation.

In this way, carboxytherapy augments the quantity and speed of the blood flow, diminishing the accumulation of liquids between cells and disintegrating the fat located the hipo-dermis. Additionally, the treatment stimulates local metabolism in a total natural way by augmenting micro-circulation, eliminating toxins and activating the destruction of fatty tissue.

Before any type of procedure is performed, patients at Better Looks are required to have a detailed discussion with their doctor. By doing so, both parties have the opportunity to contribute in the whole process and to increase the client's level of satisfaction.
People of all ages can receive a Carboxytherapy treatment; the procedure is effective equally in women as in men. However, patients who submit themselves to this treatment most be in good health and have localized fat deposits. The results of this procedure can be permanent if the patient maintains a healthy diet and an appropriate lifestyle.This is one of the core values we have here at Better Looks; we want ourclients to be completely satisfied with the results of their treatment and to heighten their self-assurance.

Carboxytherapy is a simple procedure that consists in the injection of pure CO2 within the subcutaneous layer of the skin using a very fine needle. Due to the great diffusive quality of liquid CO2, once it has penetrated the fatty tissue, it easily spreads to adjacent tissues. Once there, it exerts its positive effect on the blood flow and rapidly stimulates de local metabolism.

The experts on this treatment state that tangible results can be obtained during the first session. After this initial application, the skin of the treated area becomes visibly smoother, the quality of the tissue improves and the zone loses volume slightly. The therapy usually takes around 12 to 15 sessions, each application taking around 30 to 40 minutes. Sessions can be done twice a week.

Unlike other treatments (like reductive massages, creams and gels), the results of carboxy therapy are long lasting. These are maintained for 5 to 6 months during which you only need to repeat sessions 3 to 5 times.

The results become completely evident after the fifth session: you will notice your skin looking shinier and smoother. Between the eighth and tenth session, you will feel your subcutaneous tissue getting firmer and slimmer. Read more about Carboxytherapy.

The MACS Face Lift Surgery

2011-11-03T11:24:00.000-07:00

The MACS lift (Minimal Access Cranial Suspension) is an uncomplicated and effective facelift surgery that is projected to lift the lower two thirds of the face in a relatively simple manner with the smallest nuisance for the patient. Only a limited amount of excess skin needs to be removed; thusly, there will be nothing but an inconspicuous scar in the crease in the front of the ear and in the hairline above the ear after the whole procedure is done.

The MACS-lift implies less undermining of the skin than the traditional facelift and does not entail the exposure of the facial nerves. In truth, the extent of skin damage is possibly 50 per cent less than that of the traditional facelift. The MACS lift is also quicker since it takes an average of two hours to be performed compared to the four to five hours required for a traditional lift.

This MACS lift surgery takes place similarly to a traditional facelift; nonetheless, your Better Looks surgeon will limit the incision to the skin hairline junction above the ear and anterior to the ear. No extension behind the ear is necessary.

Your doctor will use permanent suspension sutures to elevate the underlying tissue. These pass down to the neck, jowls and cheek fat pad. In contrast to many other facelifts which do not include significant mid face elevation, the MACS lift elevates the malar fat pad reducing the naso-labial folds.

In most cases, liposuction surgery is performed to the neck area below the angle of the mandible; this helps to remove excess fat here and to release the skin to allow it to be re-draped by the suspension sutures.

The MACS lift produces results at least the same, or by and large, better than a conventional facelift. It is idyllically suited for younger patients with a sagging mid face. In cases where there is an evident sagging of the neck, it may be necessary in some cases to make an incision posterior to the ear to take up this slack, although in this is not necessary most of the time.

When preparing for your surgery in Costa Rica, Better Looks will make sure to provide all the best possible services during your procedure. We will arrange for your transport and will offer the best commodities during your recovery. All this can be arranged previously with our organization.

Porcelain Veneers

2010-08-17T11:16:00.000-07:00

The objective of this dental procedure is to cover the front surface of your teeth (or tooth, depending on your individual case) by bonding them with a fine layer of porcelain. Veneers are as strong as natural teeth and are guaranteed to last a very long time. They can be used to cover unpleasant spaced between your teeth as for covering stains and discoloration.

If you've always desired to have one of those flashy and perfect smiles, porcelain veneers may be the solution you've been looking for. With this procedure, the color, shape and alignment of your teeth can be altered, giving you a more pleasant and attractive smile without putting your long-term dental health at risk.

For a more masculine smile, dentists usually use veneers to create squarer teeth, while using deeper curves to separate each tooth creates a more feminine smile. At the same time, veneers can strengthen teeth that have suffered from decay or amalgam (old restoration technique). Also, they are custom made to fit accurately over your teeth and are 100% tissue-friendly, leading to an enhancement of your gum tissue health.

The whole process will take several visits to your cosmetic dentist so that the best results are achieved. Your teeth will be prepared for their placement during your first appointment. Your dentist will proceed to remove the upper layer of your tooth enamel (usually ½ a millimeter); if you find this phase uncomfortable, anesthesia may be utilized. Once your teeth are prepared, your cosmetic dentist will make an impression (mold) of your teeth so that the porcelain veneers can be custom made. It can usually take around 1 to 2 weeks for their manufacturing, depending on the extent of the procedure.

During the last phase of treatment, when the porcelain veneers are ready, they will be applied and fitted over the problematic areas. Once you and your doctor are satisfied with the fit, even it means making minor adjustments in color and shape, the veneers will be placed permanently.

If you have any questions concerning this dental procedure, please do not hesitate to contact us. Better Looks will be glad to help you down the path to achieving the perfect smile.

Carboxytherapy

2010-08-12T21:06:00.000-07:00

Carboxytherapy consists in the therapeutic use of carbon dioxide (CO2) administered under the skin, where fat deposits are found. This innovative treatment has turned out to be one of the best treatments with which to combat cellulite, excess fat and corporal and/or facial aging.

The administration of CO2 in places where cellulite appears allows the recovery of the smoothness of skin by providing proper circulation. In this way, carboxytherapy augments the quantity and speed of the blood flow, diminishing the accumulation of liquids between cells and disintegrating the fat located the hipo-dermis. Additionally, the treatment stimulates local metabolism in a completely natural way by augmenting micro-circulation, eliminating toxins and activating the destruction of fatty tissue.

The experts on this therapy state that tangible results can be obtained during the first session. After this initial application, the skin of the treated area becomes visibly smoother, the quality of the tissue improves and the zone loses volume slightly.

The treatment usually takes around 12 to 15 sessions, each application taking around 30 to 40 minutes. Sessions can be done twice a week.

If you have any questions or an interested in getting an appointment, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with Better Looks.

Corneal Transplant

2010-08-10T12:37:00.000-07:00

A corneal transplant (also known as a corneal graft or keratoplasty) involves the removal of the central portion (called a button) of a diseased cornea and replacing it with a matched donor button of cornea. The cornea is the clear part of eye in front of the iris and pupil. This procedure is performed on patients whose vision is impaired due to damaged or scarred corneas as a result of disease or trauma. This surgery is procedure is performed by ophthalmologists (medical doctors who specialize in eyes) and are often done on an outpatient basis.

A number of factors must be considered in deciding when to do a keratoplasty; it usually isn't an easy decision to make. One of the most important aspects that must be taken into consideration is the patient's functional vision. If the best acuity with their contact lenses prevents them from doing their job or carrying out their normal activities, a transplant must be considered.
A corneal transplant can be performed as a solution to the following conditions:

* Optical problems: this surgery can be performed to improve visual acuity by replacing the opaque host tissue by clear healthy donor tissue. The most common conditions in this group are pseudophakic bullous keratopathy, followed by keratoconus, corneal degeneration, keratoglobus and dystrophy, as well as scarring due to keratitis and trauma.

* Tectonic/reconstructive reasons: keratoplasty can be performed to preserve corneal anatomy and integrity in patients with stromal thinning and descemetoceles. It can also reconstruct the anatomy of the eye; for example, after corneal perforation.

* Therapeutic reasons: this procedure can be undertaken to remove inflamed corneal tissue unresponsive to antibiotic or anti-viral treatment.

* Cosmetic reason: keratoplasty can be performed to improve the appearance of patients with corneal scars that have given a whitish or opaque hue to the cornea.

After a keratoplasty, patients should expect very gradual recovery of vision. You should keep in mind that the recovery process following transplant is long and it can often take a year or longer.

If have any questions concerning this procedure, please feel free to send us an email. Better Looks will be glad to assist you when it comes to making the decision of going ahead with surgery.

Chemical Peel

2010-08-03T15:57:00.000-07:00

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) are exfoliants derived from fruit and milk sugars such as glycolic acid (produced from sugar cane and lactic acid produced from milk). They cause the cells of the epidermis to become loose, allowing the dead skin cells to slough off and making room for re-growth of new skin. They are often found in products used for wrinkle reduction or lessening the signs of aging and can improve the overall look and feel of the skin.

The procedure involving these acids used by dermatologists today is known as a 'chemical peel'. These help remove undesirable signs of skin aging, such as discoloration, roughness and wrinkling. The chemicals cause the skin to lose its outer layer, or peel off, revealing a fresher-looking layer of skin. It is an ideal treatment for busy people who are unable to take time off work for a deeper peel or laser resurfacing. AHA facial peels gently retexture the skin over a period of a few months. The treatments are also helpful when it comes to stabilizing oily or acne-prone skin and improving skin tone.

A chemical peel takes about 15 to 20 minutes. It is usually repeated at one to two weekly intervals as it is superficial and thus, recovery is rapid. The face is cleansed thoroughly and then the peel solution is applied for three minutes. You should keep in mind that it stings mildly. The solution is then washed off.

If you wish to receive more details in regards to a chemical peel, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us!

Anti-cellulite Creams

2010-07-29T13:30:00.000-07:00

Cellulite is characterized by the formation of tiny bulges of fat under the surface of the skin. But it is not solely the accumulation of fatty tissue that causes this annoying condition; it is also composed of a buildup of bodily residue (fat, water and others kinds of remains) that make up a gelatinous material that amasses outside the fat cells when circulation and other cellular reactions become slow and waste is not eliminated successfully.

This then leads to the accumulation of residue en the spaces between cells, provoking the much hated bulges that make up cellulite. Afterwards, when a new layer of skin piles up one on top of another, these regions harden and, in many cases, provoke pain.

Every anti-cellulite cream that has been created to seriously attack this condition is successful due to its daily and regular application. If the cream is applied with dutifully, the studies of all the diverse cosmetic companies guarantee results. Usually, these creams are applied directly to the problem areas. They are 100% safe, since most of them contain only natural ingredients and are easily absorbed by the skin to reach the cellulite immediately. These creams are offered by Better Looks' specialists in Costa Rica as an additional or parallel treatment to some procedures.

If you want to receive more information in regards to these special creams, please feel free to send us an email. We’ll be more than happy to give you more details and inform you in regards to other anti-cellulite treatments.

Chin Surgery

2010-07-27T12:41:00.000-07:00

Also known as Mentoplasty, chin surgery consists in the reshaping of the chin by performing a reduction surgery of the jaw bone or enhancing its shape using implants. The former is implemented when the chin is too prominent or when there’s a contributing problem of birth defects in the structure of the jaw. The latter is used when trying to enhance a receding chin; the bone may also be moved forward to improve the person’s facial outline.

Your chin is one of the most prominent aspects of your face, enhancing or deteriorating your overall facial contours with great ease. The three milestones of the face are the chin, nose, and cheek areas. When one of these three is out of proportion, the face may appear unbalanced.

Despite the fact that it is often overlooked, a defined chin can have great influence in the way a person’s profile looks. Most people tend to focus on their noses when they look in the mirror, not noticing the fact that their chin greatly affects the general appearance of their faces. Chin surgery helps to harmonize the different aspects of your face and adds balance to your facial outline, making you feel better about the way you look and feel about yourself.

This surgery consists of two main techniques: chin implants and chin reduction through liposuction. The technique your surgeon will use depends on your individual case and the results you are looking for.

If you are interested in more information, you can always visit the facial surgery section of our website. You can also feel free to send us an email; we’re always more than happy to help you with anything you might need!

Breast Reconstruction

2010-07-22T18:27:00.000-07:00

The aim of this surgery is to improve the shape or size of the breasts in order for medical, reconstructive and cosmetic purposes. This procedure is the main solution presented to women with breast cancer, who have been forced to undertake a mastectomy (breast removal). This condition can be devastating for women and can be the cause for severe depression and self-consciousness.

However, scientific research has found a way to help women in this situation by improving the techniques for breast reconstruction. Today, this surgery recreates the natural contours of the patient’s breast, renewing her sense of femininity and beauty. It can be performed immediately after a mastectomy and thus, the patient can wake up with a breast mound already in place, without having to suffer from the experience of seeing herself with no breast at all.

Many factors play an important role when it comes to being a candidate for breast reconstruction. Aspects such as age, smoking/medical history, changes in weight and your physical health will have to be taken into consideration and discussed with your doctor.

The whole operation is performed under general anesthesia and can take from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the extent of the reconstruction. The technique your surgeon will use is chosen depending on the amount of skin replacement needed, the size, shape and position of the breast the patient desires and the amount of skin the patient has available for reconstruction.

If you have any questions or wish to receive more information in regards to breast reconstruction surgery, please feel free to send us a message.

LASIK Eye Surgery

2010-07-20T11:20:00.000-07:00

Myopia, also known as near sightedness, is a vision problem experienced by up to about one-third of the population. Nearsighted people have difficulty when it comes to reading highway signs and seeing other objects at a distance, but can see for up-close tasks such as reading.

Nearsightedness happens when the eyeball is slightly longer than usual from front to back. This causes light rays to focus at a point in front of the retina, rather than directly on its surface. This condition can run in families and usually appears during childhood. This vision problem may stabilize at a certain point, although sometimes it worsens with age. Myopia may be corrected with glasses, contact lenses or refractive surgery.

This procedure can reduce or even eliminate your need for glasses or contacts. The most common procedures are performed with an excimer laser. In laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) - the most common refractive procedure - a flap is cut through the top of the cornea, a laser removes some corneal tissue and then the flap is dropped back into place.

After this surgery, the majority of patients experience improved vision immediately. Even so, you must remember that complete LASIK surgery recovery can take up to six months as vision takes some time to stabilize following the procedure.

If you’re interested in more information, please visit the eye surgery section of our website! You’re only one step away from obtaining the perfect vision you’ve always desired.

Brow Lift

2010-07-15T18:08:00.000-07:00

Also known as a ‘forehead lift’, this surgery can provide a more youthful and vigorous appearance to that wrinkled area above your ears which can make you look older than what your really are or feel. If you suffer from dropping brows, furrows or horizontal lines on your forehead, this procedure is the perfect solution for you since it will remove those imperfections which can make you look angry, tired or sad all the time. This condition can be caused due to hereditary/aging factors, stress or muscle activity.

The objective of this surgery is to remove (or alter) the muscles in your brow, minimize your frown lines and raise the eyebrows slightly, resulting in a smoother and fresher forehead. This procedure will help you change your facial appearance and help you regain the confidence and assurance you need to relate to other people and change the way they see you.

A forehead lift (brow lift) is usually performed under local anesthesia; however if you prefer general anesthesia so that you sleep through the whole process, it can also be utilized. There are basically two approaches to this procedure and they are explained as follows:

Classic forehead lift - Your surgeon will proceed to perform an incision starts just above the ear and runs across the top of your forehead (coronal incision; made deep within the hairline so no visible scars are left). In the case of bald patients or those who have thinning hair, most doctors recommend a mid-scalp incision, so that the resulting scar is less visible.

Endoscopic brow lift - The initial steps for this technique are the same are described above. However, in this variant, 3 to 5 short scalp incisions will be made instead of 1 big incision. A pencil-like camera device connected to a monitor known as an endoscope is inserted through one of these openings. This permits the doctor to clearly see the tissues and muscles beneath your forehead skin.

If you are interested in improving your facial appearance, just visit the facial surgery section of our website for more information. If a brow lift procedure sounds like what you’re looking for, please feel free to send us an email so we can help you achieve the look you’ve always dreamed of.

Dental Bonding

2010-07-13T11:13:00.000-07:00

By utilizing composite resin and the most advanced dental tools, cosmetic dentists today can fix broken or chipped teeth, fill in gaps and modify the color/shape of your teeth for a more natural and pleasant smile. This procedure will cover any flaws in your teeth, such as stains and minor gaps, using a thin coating of bonding material, which can sculpted to enhance the appearance of your smile.

For some clients, the bonding will last for 10 to 15 years, while other patients may suffer from staining in the margins only a few years afterwards and will require some ‘touch up’ sessions. However, if you take good care of your teeth and have a good oral hygiene, your bonding will last many long years.

This dental procedure is usually performed with no anesthetics, since it quite simply and painless. However, if you feel any discomfort, your dentist will be able to apply local anesthesia. It is usually a one-visit process and takes up from 1 to 2 hours to be performed.

If you are interested in more information, please visit the cosmetic dentistry section of our website. Additionally, you can send us an email to set up an appointment! Our staff will be more than happy to set you on the right track to a brighter smile.

Otoplasty (Ear Surgery)

2010-07-08T17:27:00.000-07:00

With this cosmetic treatment, ear can be ‘pinned back’, reduced in size, reshaped and made more symmetrical. This operation has absolutely no effect upon the inner hearing mechanism and can treat all kinds of conditions, such as lop ears, cupped ears, shell ears and large, stretched earlobes. Therefore, if you have been self-conscious about the way your ears look, this procedure can be the solution for you.

An ideal candidate for an otoplasty procedure should always be in good health and should possess a pair of ears that are in proportion to the size and shape of the head and face (the key to a successful plastic surgery). Also, he/she should be 5 years old or older and should not present a history of scarring problems (eg: keloids). Full ear growth must have been achieved before the surgery can be performed.

The length of the surgery depends on the type of problem which is being treated, but it usually takes from 2 to 3 hours.

The most usual technique involves the making of a small incision in the back of the ear, following the natural fold where the ear meets the head. This exposes the cartilage which needs to be sculpted. Once it is reshaped and bended towards the head, stitches are used to close the incision and to aid in the preservation of the new shape. In some cases, a larger piece of cartilage can be removed, giving the ear a more natural-looking fold.

If you have any questions or wish to receive more information in regards to ear surgery, please feel free to send us a message.

Dental Crowns

2010-07-06T08:58:00.000-07:00

A dental crown (also called as dental cap) is basically a tooth-shaped covering that is placed over a tooth when it is severely damaged or decayed. They are used when the damage/decay is excessive, meaning that filling material cannot be used to make the tooth strong again. They are used to cover discolored teeth as well, since they cover the entire tooth right from the gum line.

These dental caps reinforce teeth by binding the sides of the damaged tooth together, much like a splint is used to hold a broken bone. Crowns are made from many different materials but there are basically three different types: gold, metal-ceramic crowns (both are ideal for back teeth since they are extremely durable) and ceramic crowns (used primarily for front teeth since they resemble the natural color of the tooth).

This treatment generally takes two visits to your dentist’s office and is performed under anesthesia.

Before the placement of the crown, your dentist will file the tooth down to make room for the cap. Here, your dentist will make an impression of your problematic tooth (or teeth, depending on the case) and a dental laboratory will be in charge in creating the crown. While this is being done, a temporary acrylic crown will be set in place. On your second visit, the temporary cap is taken out and replaced by the permanent crown.

If you are interested in receiving more information about this dental treatment, please feel free to contact us at any time. We’ll be more than happy to help you achieve the spectacular smile you’ve always desired!

Aspirative Hidrolipoclasy

2010-07-01T17:03:00.000-07:00

This treatment is very similar to ultrasound hidrolipoclasy; the only difference is that, once the solution has been injected in the fatty tissue and the ultrasound has been performed, your Better Looks specialist will proceed to extract the removed fat using micro-canulas inserted through miniscule incisions.

As a result, this procedure does not require hospitalization and can be performed using local anesthesia. Patients return to their homes the very same day of treatment, without pain or with very minor discomfort at the most. Another advantage is that several sessions can be performed in different regions of the body in the same week. Nonetheless, you must keep in mind that aspirative hidrolipoclasy is recommended only for people who are moderately overweight.

People of all ages can receive an aspirative hidrolipoclasy treatment; the procedure is effective equally in women as in men. However, patients who submit themselves to this treatment most be in good health and have localized fat deposits. The results of this procedure can be permanent if the patient maintains a healthy diet and an appropriate lifestyle.

During the treatment, approximately 200cc to 500cc of fat can be extracted.This avoids any kind of mayor inflammatory reactions in the body, allowing it to recover whole a lot quicker. Aspirative hidrolipoclasy results in the reduction of clothes' sizes and allows the patient to reintegrate in her/his daily activities immediately.

If you have any queries in regards to this treatment, just let us know! We’re always more than happy to provide you with anything you might need.

Reductive Massages

2010-06-29T17:27:00.000-07:00

Corporal reductive massages are an ideal and quick way to lose those extra centimeters that tend to accumulate around the hips, legs and arms. They are also ideal when it comes to treating that annoying condition called ‘cellulite’. However, these massages need to be performed by a specialist, such as the expert masseuses of Better Looks, since they can lead to a decrease in muscle tone if they are not performed correctly.

Reductive massages act on the conjunctive tissue and help to optimize the irrigation of the lymphatic and circulatory systems. Reduction takes place when the fatty acids and toxins accumulated in the problem areas are liberated. This type of procedure is ideal for:

* Reducing localized deposits of fat located in the abdomen, waist, hips, buttocks, back, arms, thighs, calves, etc. It is possible to go down from 1 to 5 sizes in 15 sessions.
* Reducing the small bulges on the abdomen, waist, hips and back that sometimes remain after a liposuction and/or liposculpture.
* Improving your facial profile; this involves the reduction of localized fat in the cheeks, chin and neck.
* Eliminating cellulite.
* Reaffirming corporal sagginess, lifting your buttocks and breasts in a completely natural way.

If you are interested in more information concerning this procedure, please feel free to send us a message!

Dermabrasion

2010-06-24T19:44:00.000-07:00

This beauty treatment is a mechanical procedure that used a power-drive (hand held device equipped with a rotating metal wheel) that used a wire brush of a diamond fraise to remove the upper layers of the skin.

The results of dermabrasion are actually permanent, making it an ideal technique for treating skin acne, removing scars or tattoos and promoting new skin growth. When we say permanent, we mean that it has long term effects (up to 1 year or more). Sometimes, patients repeat the dermabrasion treatment but this requires for the skin to be healed completely from the previous session. However, you must keep in mind that this procedure does not prevent new wrinkles from appearing in the natural aging process.

Dermabrasion is a one-session treatment, requiring another yearly session for maintenance. The treatment consists of 6 to 12 sessions, scheduled 2 weeks apart and usually require a once every 2-3 months session for maintenance.

Usually, this technique of skin abrasion requires local anesthesia, depending on the size of the area that is being treated. Before starting, your specialist will clean the region with an antiseptic cleaning gel. After doing so, he/she will start the skin-peeling process using the rotating wheel of the machine until the desired depth of the dermis is reached.

If you are interested in receiving more information in regards to this treatment, please don’t hesitate to get in contact with us. Better Looks is always more than happy to help you!

Labiaplasty

2010-06-22T16:44:00.000-07:00

Labiaplasty is a cosmetic genital surgical procedure that reduces the size or changes the shape of the small lips on the outside of the vagina (labia minora). A significant number of women are born with large or irregular labia. Others may develop this condition after childbirth or with aging. The appearance of the enlarged labia can cause embarrassment with a sexual partner or loss of self esteem.

Lots of women feel uncomfortable or irritated when wearing tight clothing, having sexual relations or exercising due to their large/thick labia. Women whose labia become irritated and painful will often find relief after surgery. Labiaplasty surgery can greatly enhance the cosmetic appearance of the outer vagina giving many women greater confidence and making them feel better about themselves.

If you are experiencing sexual dysfunction or embarrassment because your labia (labia minora) are over-sized or asymmetrical, this surgery may be the solution you have been looking for. At the same time, women who have long or hanging vaginal lips/genetalia can benefit from a labia reduction. Some women have always been this way, whereas others develop the problem after childbirth or as they get older. Simultaneously, women who dislike the large size or shape of their labia, which may cause inelegance or awkwardness with a sexual partner, can also be candidates for this surgery.

Please feel free to get in contact with Better Looks if you wish to receive more information. We’d be more than happy to assist you!

Permanent Eyeliner

2010-06-17T18:58:00.000-07:00

Permanent make-up is perfect for active women who always need to look their best but cannot afford the time to apply make-up throughout the day. At the end of the day, your make-up looks as though it was just freshened. You can select your color of make-up from a wide selection of shades or a new shade can be created just for you.

Permanent eyeliner is possible through a procedure called micropigmentation. This technique involves the embedding of an organic pigment beneath the skin to add permanent color. The treatment involves the use of a hand-held device that punctures the skin hundreds of times per minute with a very thin needle and pushes the pigment into the desired location. In addition to defining the eyes, micropigmentation is used to enhance eyebrows and lips, creating a permanent look of blush and eye shadow.

The color of your permanent make-up is applied by using an applicator designed especially for facial cosmetic tattooing. This tool gives your specialist the highest degree of control for fine detailed work. The whole procedure is performed while using sterile supplies.

If you are interested in this procedure, feel free to browse the spa treatment section of our website. You can also send us a message with any questions you may have or if you are interested in getting this procedure performed.

Laser Teeth Whitening

2010-06-15T17:32:00.000-07:00

The discoloration of the teeth enamel can have many different causes. Factors such as aging, chemical damage or discoloration can greatly affect its development. Some of the more common causes of teeth discoloration are medications, coffee, tea or cigarettes. At the same time, people who drink significant amounts of cola soft drinks can experience similar staining.

During the procedure, a translucent bleaching gel is applied to the teeth and then laser light is applied. The laser activates the crystals in the gel, which absorb the energy and penetrate the teeth enamel to increase the lightening effect on the teeth. The extent of the whitening depends on the degree of discoloration of your teeth. Generally, one visit is all it takes to obtain a brighter smile. Keep in mind though, the sudden change in the color of your teeth will be noticed by those around you right away.

However, you must remember that laser whitening is not a permanent procedure. Depending on your personal habits and dental hygiene, results can last for one to or more years. Usually, the procedure is very effective and you will definitely be pleased with the results.

IPL Treatment

2010-06-11T06:50:00.000-07:00

If you want to permanently remove hair from your legs, arms, underarms, bikini line, back or chest, then Better Looks has the perfect treatment for you! At Betterlooks we received many messages from customers who want to remove hair permanently. Better Looks always gives the same suggestion; IPL hair treatment.

In addition to eliminate hair, this treatment can help define clean lines. Not only will no longer have the need for shaving or waxing, but also can avoid hair 'red' and irregularities on the surface of the skin. With this treatment you will be completely free of hair and you will benefit with a rejuvenated and smoother skin.

In general, the technique of IPL requires that patients make about 6 trips to the doctor's office for 'clean' an area of the body effectively, also IPL works better with dark hair and thick.

Although IPL and laser light used to cause thermal damage to the hair follicles, differences between treatments. IPL uses specific wavelengths of light, which optimize the absorption by the pigment melanin in the hair and at the same time, minimize the damage to the skin. It differs from the laser because it can manage high levels of energy using optimal light waves, causing less damage to the skin.

For more information, please feel free to send a message or browse our website. Better Looks is here to serve you!

Dental Implants

2010-04-29T20:41:00.000-07:00

Better Looks receives a great many weekly emails from clients requesting dental implants, the most reliable and safe procedure with which to replace teeth. We have helped customers who have lost not just one tooth but several teeth; after directing them to our cosmetic dentists, we are happy to say they have walked out with brilliant smile and feeling great about themselves. After you have submitted yourself to this treatment, your new teeth will look and feel completely natural, boosting your self confidence and helping you improve your self-esteem.

These implants conserve the proportions of the entire facial outline and greatly diminish any difficulties related to the loss of teeth. If you are self conscious about your smile due to your missing teeth or if you are not comfortable with chewing all kinds of food, this procedure is the perfect option for you. Once you have finished this treatment, you will be able to grin, talk and eat in complete comfort, enhancing the assurance with which you relate to other people.

Dental implants are usually made of surgical-grade titanium alloy and are shaped like a screw. The reason for this is because this material does not react harmfully with biological tissues and blends extremely well with bone. This is then introduced into the jaw bone and serves as an anchor for the new tooth or prosthesis. It replaces the root portion of the natural tooth (teeth) which is missing. Once it is safely adhered, the implant is then used as the base for the attachment of diverse kinds or dental restorations (eg: dentures, bridges and dental crowns).

If you are in good oral and general health, you are an ideal aspirant for this procedure. The best candidates are free of periodontal disease and have healthy gums. Keep in mind that your health is the determining factor to see if this surgery is right for you, not your age. If you have sufficient health to have a tooth extracted, then you are more than likely healthy enough to have this surgery performed. You must keep in mind that the people who submit themselves to this procedure need to have supple bone in their jaw, since the implants will be adhered to this. If this is not the case, then a previous bone enhancement treatment can be performed prior to the operation.

If you are interested in reading more, please feel free to visit the Cosmetic Dentistry section of our Better Looks website. Additionally, you can send us an email at any time! We are always more than happy to aid our clients in obtaining the bright smile they’ve always desired.

Endovenous Laser

2010-04-26T13:14:00.000-07:00

As we mentioned in last week's post, varicose veins are a big issue when it comes to many of our clients. Apart from sclerotherapy, Better Looks offers another treatment that uses high levels of technology: endovenous laser. This innovative procedure is an alternate treatment to the surgical removal of varicose veins. It is simple, quick and extremely effective; its objective is to heat the inside of the vein and cause to seal shut and therefore, disappear.

EndoVenous laser treatment (EVLT) can be performed under local anesthesia and only takes 45 minutes for your legs to obtain a whole new appearance. The recovery from this treatment is extremely quick, and since it a very precise procedure, the risks of scarring are minimal.

Before you submit yourself for surgical treatment of your varicose veins, you need to be evaluated by your vein specialist in order to make sure that all potential issues have been brought to the surface. Patients should consider surgical treatment when the veins commence to cause discomfort and pain, and especially when self-help procedures have not rendered any results.

This technique requires for a thin laser fiber to be inserted into the problematic vein. By using an ultrasound machine, your doctor maps out the vein and then applies the local anesthesia. Using a small needle at the end of the vein, the fiber is inserted inside and advanced until it reached the end. This laser fiber then heats the inside of the vein and once the procedure is done, it is withdrawn back down as it was inserted.

This procedure leaves no scars and has minimal pain and discomfort prior to the operation. Your recovery period will be extremely quick and you can expect to resume normal activities the very next day, which means that you do not need to wear any uncomfortable compression stockings for long periods of time.

If you are interested in obtaining more information concerning endovenous laser and its cost, feel free to get in contact with Better Looks at any time. We’d be more than happy to help you!

Rhinoplasty Surgery

2010-04-22T10:17:00.000-07:00

One of the most important features of your face is your nose. Our staff at Better Looks is especially aware of this and our surgery program would not be complete without us offering a top of the line rhinoplasty. Commonly known as a nose job, this procedure if perfect if you aren’t pleased with the tip or the bridge of your nose or its overall outline or if you have suffered from some kind of injury and would like to restructure your face.

This procedure can reduce or increase the size of your nose, decrease the width of your nostrils, modify the angle between your nose and your upper lip and re-shape the outline of your nose bridge. Not only can it correct injuries, but it can also help alleviate certain breathing problems.

Depending on your age group, there might be different considerations you might need to keep in mind. Rhinoplasty (nose job) is a really popular procedure among teenagers and their emotional, psychological and social growth must be considered at all times. Usually, this surgery is performed after a teenager’s growth spurt (14 or 15 for girls, a little later for boys).

A rhinoplasty (nose job) treatment usually takes 1-2 hours in total, though more complex surgeries can take longer. During the process, the skin of the nose is separated from its supporting structure of cartilage and bone. The surgeon then proceeds to sculpt this framework to the desired shape. The character of the sculpting will depend on the patient’s needs and wants, as well as with the problem he/she presents. The doctor’s preferred technique will also affect the process. Once this part of the operation is done, the skin is placed back and re-draped over the area.

If you are interested in improving your facial appearance, just visit the facial surgery section of our website for more information. If a rhinoplasty procedure sounds like what you’re looking for, please feel free to send us an email so we can help you achieve the look you’ve always dreamed of.

Sclerotherapy

2010-04-19T12:16:00.000-07:00

One of the most common problems that women face comes in the form of 'spider veins' (clusters of blue, purple or red veins which usually appear on the ankles, calves and thighs). These veins lie close to the surface of the skin and the appearance of 'spider veins' can be due to hormonal changes, heredity, pregnancy, significant weight changes or activities which require standing or sitting for very long periods of time.

Another similar type of veins that tends to appear is varicose veins; these are slightly larger than 'spider veins', are darker in color and have a tendency to bulge. This type of vein is more likely to cause some sort of pain and may be related to more serious circulatory disorders.

Better Looks is asked on a regular basis concerning ways in which these kinds of irritating veins can be eliminated. Luckily, we have the right solution for our many worried clients: sclerotherapy treatment. This procedure consists in the injection of a sclerosing solution into the veins themselves, irritating the veins and causing a thrombus (blood clot); this eventually heals and produces scar tissue, which blocks the vein and makes it disappear.

When it comes to sclerotherapy, you must keep in mind that the affected vein will vanish completely and it usually takes more than one session to reach the desired results. Also, this procedure only treats the veins which have come to the surface and does not prevent other 'untreated' veins from becoming visible with time.

The best candidates for this treatment usually fall in the age range of 30 to 60. However, these types of veins can become visible in women very early in their lives, such as in their teenage years. 'Spider veins' aren't as common in men as in women, but they sometimes do happen; keep in mind that sclerotherapy has the same level of effectiveness in both females and males.

If the appearance of your legs causes you worries or makes you self-conscious, there is no need to be anxious any longer. Visit the vein treatment section of our Better Looks website for more information and send us an email so we can set up an appointment for you!

Botox

2010-04-15T10:11:00.000-07:00

When it comes to eliminating wrinkles without the need for surgery, Botox® injections are the number one choice. Frustrated clients write to us for a solution and always happily surprised to know their problem can be resolved without any need for surgery.

The application of Botox® injections is completely safe and is an exceedingly simply procedure to perform since it requires no anesthetics. The injections are basically made up of diluted botulinum toxin type A and are injected into the facial muscles. This toxin weakens or paralyzes the muscles which form the wrinkles by blocking the transmission between their nerve endings.

This procedure eliminates crow’s feet, brow lines, vertical lines between the eyebrows, smile lines, horizontal lines on the neck and any other irregularities on your facial skin. Not only is Botox® advantageous when it comes to changing the outlines of your face, but research has proved that it helps to alleviate migraines, muscles spasms (eyes and neck) and excessive sweating.

Candidates for this procedure usually fall within the age range of 18 to 65. Keep in mind that Botox® injections cannot be administered to pregnant women. But if you are in good physical health, this method can be perfect for you.

The good thing about Botox® injections is that it is a 10 minute non-surgical procedure. This means that your appointment will be over really quickly and you can fit in your sessions between your normal activities without the need to take the whole day off.

For further reading, please visit the Spa Treatments section of our Better Looks website. If you are interested in going ahead with your Botox® treatment, please do not hesitate to write to us so we can arrange everything for you!

Liposuction

2010-04-12T10:31:00.000-07:00

While exercise and dieting may be useful for ridding oneself of unwanted weight and fat, some fat deposits simply do not respond to an individual's efforts. Many have been the emails that Better Looks has received (and continues to receive!) from clients in just this position. Fortunately, we can offer them just the right surgery to help them loose those excessive and frustrating fat deposits: liposuction.

During the procedure (also known as lipoplasty or suction lipectomy), your doctor makes a tiny incision and inserts a hollow, stainless steel tube (called a cannula) into the deep fat layer. You must know that working on this layer is safer than working on the superficial fat layer because there is less risk of injuring the skin. In a typical liposuction procedure, your surgeon pushes and pulls the tube through the fat layer. As the cannula moves, it breaks up the localized fat cells while a vacuum pump or syringe removes the fat using suction.

Nonetheless, you must keep in mind that liposuction is not a low-effort alternative to exercise and diet. It is a form of body contouring and not a weight loss method. The amount of fat removed varies depending on your specialist, the method used and the patient goals; however, the average amount is typically less than 10 pounds (5 kg).

There are several factors that limit the amount of fat that can be safely removed in one session. Ultimately, the operating physician and the patient make the decision. There are negative aspects to removing too much fat. Unusual "lumpiness" in the skin may appear in those patients that are over suctioned.

The contouring that is possible through liposuction may cause the appearance of weight loss to be greater than the actual amount of fat removed. The procedure may be performed under general or local ("tumescent") anesthesia. The safety of the technique relates to the amount of tissue removed, the choice of anesthetic and the patient's health in general.

Men and women of virtually any age have enjoyed cosmetic improvement through liposuction. Ideal candidates are people in their normal weight range with one or several areas to reduce and shape. An individual who is overweight but stable in his or her weight pattern with one or two areas to improve can also benefit from the procedure. However, it is especially important for this patient to have realistic expectations and look forward to contouring enhancement rather than weight reduction.

If you are interested in having a liposuction procedure performed, please feel free to visit the body contouring section of our website. If you have any questions, please write to us! We are always more than happy to help people achieve their body sculpting dreams.

Tummy Tuck

2010-04-08T09:55:00.000-07:00

It’s general knowledge that one of the most difficult regions of the body to tone is the abdomen. You can kill yourself by doing crunches or keep to a strict diet but your protruding tummy can linger and become a source of amazing frustration. Whenever a client writes to us complaining about this problem, Better Looks offers them an effective solution: tummy tuck surgery.

An abdominoplasty (another name for tummy tuck) consists in the removal of excess fat and skin from the lower and middle of the abdomen, tightening the muscles of the abdominal wall and making your tummy flatty and firmer. A partial abdominoplasty (a.k.a mini tummy tuck) is a similar surgery which targets only the lower abdomen and therefore less invasive.

This procedure is perfect for female abdomens which have been stretches by pregnancy or weight gain, since usually, the tummy fails to return to its original shape after such circumstances; tissue which fails to react to exercise or diet programs.

A candidate for a tummy tuck surgery needs to be in relatively good shape but suffering from loose abdominal skin and large fat deposits. Those who are planning to lose some weight should wait before performing the surgery; this also includes women who are planning future pregnancies, since the tightened muscles during the procedure can separate during pregnancy. Also, your weight must have been stable for the last 6 months prior to the surgery.

If you are looking for a way to get rid of that protruding abdomen via an effective surgery, please don’t hesitate to send Better Looks an email. For more information concerning this procedure, just visit the Body Contouring section of our website.

Breast Lift

2010-04-05T12:05:00.001-07:00

As women age, their skin usually loses its elasticity and it results the sagging of the breasts/chest (ptosis) due to the loss of firmness and shape of their breast tissue. The causes for this can also be greatly affected by inherited traits, especially when one breast is well positioned and the other is not, or it can also happen to due extreme weight loss. Ptosis can occur in different degrees and women today know that, despite it being a natural condition, it can be easily corrected with cosmetic treatment.

Better Looks receives messages on a regular basis of female clients in need of finding an effective treatment for their ptosis. We offer them the ideal solution: breast lift surgery. By enhancing the shape of their breasts/chest, women can improve their self-assurance and radically change the way they are perceived by others.

A breast lift (also known as a mastoplexy) consists in the reshaping and lifting of the breast and can be combined with a decrease or increase in breast size. The objective of this procedure is to rearrange the breast tissue, shifting the position of the nipple and to tighten the skin so that breast firmness is augmented, resulting in a more natural and youthful contour of the chest.

The ideal candidate for this type of procedure is a woman’s whose breasts are pendulous and lack substance or firmness; also, women whose nipples point downwards (positioned beneath the breast crease) can also greatly benefit from this operation.

If your case is similar to that described above and you’re looking for a way to make your breasts regain their youthful appearance, please feel free to write to Better Looks. We’d be more than happy to help you achieve a whole new look that will leave you feeling great about yourself!

IPL Hair Removal

2010-04-01T10:52:00.000-07:00

From the many emails Better Looks receives on a daily basis, there is a great number asking for permanent hair removal treatments. We always tell our clients the same thing: if you want to eliminate hair from your legs, arms, underarms, bikini lines, back and chest areas, then IPL hair removal is the procedure for you!

While permanently removing hair, IPL can also help the male population; it defines clean and attractive hair lines as well as beards. Not only will shaving, tweezing or waxing be unnecessary, you will also be free of ingrown hairs and ‘bumps’ on the surface of your skin. You will be completely hair-free and will benefit from a rejuvenated, silkier and smoother skin.

Generally, the IPL technique requires for patients to make around 6 visits to their doctor’s office to successfully clean an area; it also works best on medium or coarse, dark hair. Sessions are usually performed once a month since it is needed for the hair that hasn’t been eliminated yet to grow.

Even though IPL and laser use light to cause thermal damage to the hair follicle, there are differences between the two treatments. IPL uses specific wavelengths of light that are the optimum for absorption by the melanin pigmentation in the hair, yet at the same time minimizing the trauma to the skin. It is different from laser treatment because it is able to deliver greater energies at optimum wavelengths while causing less damage to the skin.

If this treatment sounds like the one you’re looking for, feel free to visit our website and read the laser treatment section. You’ll find everything you need there to help you obtain your hair-less objectives! Please do not hesitate to write to Better Looks so we can help you get started with your permanent hair removal.

Upper Eyelid Surgery

2010-03-29T11:11:00.000-07:00

As a person ages, drooping around the eyelids can become a common problem. This condition hampers the facial appearance of a person and can have serious repercussions on how people feel about themselves. Sun damage and heredity can be key causes of this problem and can accelerate the change. Many clients write to us at Better Looks asking for a solution to their drooping eyelid problem. It gives us great satisfaction to offer them just the right treatment for their problem: upper eyelid surgery.

This surgical procedure is also known as blepharoplasty and it helps to remove the loose skin, fat deposits and any dropping tissue forming around the upper eyelids. This condition is also known as ‘hooding of the upper lid’ (meaning there’s excess skin on the upper eyelid itself) which causes it to droop. By re-draping this excess, surgeons are able to give your eyes a more rested and youthful appearance, eliminating any traces of tiredness and old age.

Younger people can also opt for this procedure if they suffer from puffiness around the eyes from congenital excess fatty tissue. This puffiness of the middle of the upper eyelid and the inner corner of the eye is caused by herniation of fat.

Additionally, this surgery can widen the field of peripheral vision in those individuals who suffer from ‘eye strain’; it does so by utilizing the forehead muscles to aid in the elevation of the upper eyelids. You must keep in mind, however, that this procedure isn’t meant to remove dark circles under your eyes, saggy eyebrows or ‘crow’s feet’. Nonetheless, this surgery can be combined with other cosmetic treatment to enhance the overall appearance of your eyes.

If you’re interested in more information, please visit the eye surgery section of our website! You’re only one step away from getting rid of that droopy-eyed look. Send us an email so we can help you achieve the youthful look you’ve been dreaming of!

Face Lift Surgery

2010-03-25T10:36:00.000-07:00

As time passes, neck muscles start to weaken and facial skin can loosen and wrinkle as well. Crow's feet can appear at the corner of the eyes, forehead lines can crease further and the jaw line softens into jowls. Sun exposure, heredity, weight oscillation or anything that causes the skin to lose its elasticity can speed up this process. Such problems are extremely common and a great number of Better Looks’ clients write to us in search of a solution. Luckily they need not look much further.

Our high quality surgery program would not be complete without including a face lift (rhytidectomy) procedure, a surgery that is now the third most demanded plastic surgery in the world.

A face lift tightens the skin of the neck and face. It restores lose tissue and returns its youthful appearance. This procedure is usually performed in conjunction with other surgeries to provide a fuller facial renewal, for example, lower and upper eye blepharoplasty. However, contrary to popular belief, a face lift will not alter the texture of the skin. Lines, scars and creases will return to their original texture, no matter how tight the skin is pulled. However, this surgery can be combined with different skin treatments (eg: chemical or laser resurfacing) to improve and smooth skin wrinkles and texture.

Even though a face lift cannot stop the aging process, it can make a person appear a decade younger, boosting your self-confidence and making you feel better about yourself. This is one of the core values we have here at Better Looks: we want our clients to be completely satisfied with the results of their surgery and to heighten their self-assurance.

If you are interested in more information, please visit the facial surgery section of our website. You’ll find all the details concerning this and other procedures there. If you have any further question, don’t hesitate to send us an email! We’ll be more than happy to help you on your way to obtaining a more juvenile facial complexion.

Mesotherapy

2010-03-22T13:12:00.000-07:00

In the world of esthetic treatments, many women know there a large number of available methods and medications to cure that amazingly troublesome presence known as cellulite. This, of course, without taking into account the never-ending hours a person would have to spend at the gym to make the attempt to improve their appearance. Thus, if you consider that none of these treatments is a magical solution for all, Better Looks is happy to inform you that mesotherapy injections are a very feasible option. This method resolves your cellulite problems if it is applied with discipline and correct nutritional habits are taken. For this reason, it is one of the most demanded treatments at our website!

Very few women are lucky enough to escape the torment that cellulite can bring. This condition is reserved almost exclusively for the female sex and it can become an important part in a person’s day to day living. Better Looks is very much acquainted with the frustration of trying everything on the market and seeing no results. Disappointment and even depression may set in due to efforts that do not receive their due. If this is or has been your case, then mesotherapy just might be what you are looking for.

The best part is that Mesotherapy isn’t limited to cellulite treatment. It has a variety of applications including: weight loss, face and neck rejuvenation and hair re-growth. Consequently, the injected solution is individually prepared depending on its purpose. Unlike other medical treatments, mesotherapy is directly applied to the desired area. This limits side-effects, reduces the possibility of drug interactions and allows for a significant decrease in the amount of medicine utilized for each procedure.

Mesotherapy is practically painless because only the head of the injection needle is inserted in the area being treated and no scarring is involved. Another wonderful advantage of this treatment is its quick application; it only takes a few minutes! Plus there is no recovery time involved, meaning you can return to your normal day to day activities right after receiving treatment.

If you are interested in reading more, visit our esthetic treatment section at our website! You’ll find all the information you need concerning mesotherapy and a variety of other treatments. Feel free to contact us to get started on your journey to obtain a cellulite-free body!

Breast Augmentation

2010-03-18T12:11:00.000-07:00

As most people know very well, breast implants or augmentation mammoplasty is a procedure used in cosmetic surgery to remodel the shape of the breast. Most of the time, the surgery is performed to increase breast size, however, the treatment can also be performed for breast reconstruction, like for example, in the correction of genetic deformities or after a mastectomy.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, breast augmentation is the third most commonly performed cosmetic surgical procedure in the United States. Hence, it comes as no surprise for this surgery to be in the top five most asked for procedures at Better Looks. Due to this cosmetic boom, it is becoming increasingly popular in Costa Rica because of its low cost and rehabilitation facilities. Naturally, the beauty of this small country cannot be discarded when it comes to making the decision of travelling abroad to get cosmetic surgery performed.

So, everyone knows what breast augmentation surgery does and that it’s amazingly popular. But what does the procedure imply exactly? If I want to get increase my breast size through surgery, what do I need to consider? Well, to start off, you need to be aware of the various options available since the surgery can be performed in various ways. Additionally, you need to be aware that there are two different kinds of implants (many different shapes and textures) from which to choose from:

Saline breast implants - these have a silicone rubber shell filled with sterile saline liquid. Saline implants are the most commonly used implants in the United States. They differ in shell surface (i.e. smooth or textured) and thickness, volume, profile, shape (round or anatomical) and can be expandable as well. The majority of saline implants are single lumen and are filled at the time of surgery.

Silicone gel implants - which have a silicone shell filled with a silicone gel. In the 60 countries where silicone implants are available, they are used in approximately 90-95% of implant operations. These breast implants come pre-filled, meaning that there is no fill to be added when they are placed. The only real downside to a pre-filled implant is that the incision your Better Looks doctor makes will have to be a bit longer, depending on the size of the implant to be inserted. This is especially the case for textured silicone, which is a somewhat firmer than smooth silicone, due to the thickness of the shell.

Procedure
A breast augmentation surgery generally takes one to two hours to complete. The whole technique of inserting and positioning your implant will depend on your anatomy as well as on your surgeon's suggestions. Keep in mind that different doctors work with different types of incisions/techniques; therefore, it’s recommended you discuss these with your doctor thoroughly before making any decisions. Technically, the incisions available are:

Peri-Areolar - a semicircular incision around the lower half of the areola. This is presently one of the most widely used incisions. The incision is made just beyond the areola (the darker area of skin surrounding the nipple). Your surgeon makes the incision at the very edge of the areola where the dark tissue meets the lighter breast tissue, aiding the scar when it comes to "blending it in".

Infra-Mammary - a transverse incision following the line of the infra-mammary fold. Also known as the crease incision, this is probably the most frequent incision currently used for breast augmentation. The incision is made in the infra-mammary fold, commonly known as the crease. If the incision is performed correctly, the scar should not be visible (except when being in a horizontal position).

Axillary - an incision in the armpit with a tunnel made through to the breast. This particular incision offers a scar-less breast after the procedure. The incision site is in the armpit, in the natural "folds" of skin, hiding it very well.

TUBA - an incision at the rim of the navel, the implant is rolled up subcutaneously behind the breast. This is the most recent incision developed by plastic surgeons. Due to this, very few surgeons out there actually have training when it comes to making this incision.
The doctors at Better Looks will make every effort to assure that the incision made so resulting scars will be as unremarkable as possible.

Once the incision is made, your surgeon will lift your breast tissue and skin to create a pocket. This can be located either directly behind the breast tissue (submammary or subglandular placement) or beneath the pectoral muscle and on top of the chest wall (submuscular placement).

As we just mentioned, there are several techniques used in the insertion of breast implants. The choice of technique may depend on the surgeon's personal preferences as much as the patient's relevant anatomy. Here’s some information concerning each:

Sub-Glandular - sub-glandular implants are placed in a pocket between the pectoralis major muscle and the breast tissue and subcutaneous fat. A surgeon may select this technique in a patient with a moderate amount of pre-existing breast tissue.
Sub-Fascial - in this technique the implant is placed into a pocket between the pectoralis major and its covering.
Sub-Muscular – with this technique the implant is placed entirely or partially beneath the pectoralis major muscle, lying on the ribcage.

Once the implant is placed within this pocket and the desired look is obtained, the incisions are closed using sutures. A gauze bandage may be applied over your breasts to help with the healing.
In regards to your recovery period, when the bandage is removed a surgical bra may be supplied by your surgeon and stitches may be removed approximately a week later. Usually, after the initial 7 days, you may go back to your daily routine without any problems. By the end of the first four weeks, swelling will reduce 75%. Additionally, it may also take around this long for direct physical contact of the breasts to be permitted. Keep in mind that scarring goes through various stages and may finish anywhere from a couple of months to a year after.

If you’re interested in getting a breast augmentation performed, don’t hesitate to contact us now! We’ll help you get on track to achieving the amazing bustline you’ve always dreamed of.

Hidrolipoclasy

2010-03-18T11:38:00.000-07:00

Want to get rid of that nasty cellulite? Want to wear your swimsuits without worrying about how the skin of your thighs looks? Have you always dreamed of having smooth unblemished skin? Well, Better Looks has the perfect treatment for you. Say goodbye to that awful cellulite once and for all!

Hidrolipoclasy offers you the opportunity to lose weight and eliminate cellulite all in one efficient treatment. There’s a reason why this treatment is in the top 5 most demanded procedures at Better Looks: it’s effective, affordable and delivers just what it promises. A high number of Better Looks clients have walked out of the doctor’s office with a smile on their faces and a slimmer figure.

Now, so you know where the treatment comes from, the term Hidrolipoclasy is made up of three words: Hidro - meaning water, Lipo - meaning fat and Clasia - which means to break down or explode. The substance that’s applied during the procedure dissolves intracellular fat, making it a whole lot easier for your body to eliminate it.

This innovative and effective (but sadly not very well known!) treatment consists in the application of the above mentioned substance. The special fluid is injected in areas of your body where fat or cellulite is mostly stored; once the substance has been applied, an ultrasound is performed. The ultrasound and fluid combine to produce a thermo-genesis effect (in other words, it creates heat). This in turn burns up the stored local fat when the ultrasound generates sound waves of a certain magnitude. The combination produces an explosion that loosens and ruptures fat cells, eliminating them through the lymphatic and blood stream. Hidrolipoclasy also breaks up fibrosis, which plays a very important role in the formation of cellulite.

The treatment is applied across five sessions, more or less one session per week. During each session, certain steps are followed:

1- A physiological solution serum is injected in the fat tissue (that’s the substance we mentioned before).

2- The ultrasound is performed over the area that’s being treasted.

3- A vacuum therapy is carried out.

Before your doctor beings the treatment, certain parameters are taken into account: height, weight, waist, thigh and knee measurements. Also, the bilaterally of the folds of the skin and the wrist’s diameter are measured to determine the patients fat percentage, muscular weight, bone weight and residual weight are.

Treatment

To start off, your doctor will mark the skin of the area you wish to get treated; the segment usually isn’t larger than 4x4 inches. The dermis is then thoroughly disinfected with alcohol drenched cotton. Next, the special physiologically sterilized solution and a combination of specified fat reducers, such as salicylate monosilanotriol and Triac (for those who are not allergic to iodine), are injected into the sub-dermic tissue. This part of the treatment may take around 7 to 15 minutes.

Subsequently, your doctor will proceed to infiltrate the area once more with a physiological solution that may contain bicarbonate or another component with a low Ph. For example, if you’d like to get your abdomen done, the application is done in two sections: one on each side of your navel. This application will not take longer than 3 minutes, though. You may also have this treatment done in non-traditional areas such as your neck or the upper part of your ankles or arms.

Hidrolipoclasy’s last step is the ultrasound. This is done with a high quality professional apparatus and you will only feel as if you’re receiving a massage. Nevertheless, the ultrasound is the most important part of the whole treatment: it’s during this phase that fat cells “explode” or “break”. Keep in mind that the area you have treated may swell slightly afterwards; this is because of the solutions that have been injected. However, this will disappear naturally in the next 48 hours.

The last part of the treatment is a vacuum therapy. This consists in sliding a pillow shaped apparatus with the effect of a vacuum over the treated skin; this will help drain the fat towards the lymphatic tract where it will then be eliminated.

The results are immediate and most women notice a significant reduction of up to two sizes in about two to three sessions!

At Better Looks we always receive messages from our clients, asking how often they need to have a hidrolipoclasy session. We always let them know that the treatment can be performed once a week or every ten days. One hidrolipoclasy session may take approximately 45 minutes depending on the patient’s specific needs. Women with a little more weight may notice a change right away; thinner women may take a little longer to see evident results. But whatever your case, you will see a substantial difference in a very small amount of time.

Lots of our clients also worry about the pain levels involved in a hidrolipoclasy procedure. They’re always very happy when we let them know that the whole procedure is basically painless! During the first phase, when the solutions are being injected, some patients feel a tingling sensation or at the most a small needle prick. During the ultrasound, the feeling they experience is fresh and pleasant, even relaxing.

The huge benefits of hidrolipoclasy are that this procedure eliminates fat without the need of:

· Surgery

· Anesthesia or hospitalization

· High health risks

· Diets

· Pills

Hidrolipoclasy is without a doubt one of the greatest ways to dissolve and eliminate fat. It is the perfect solution for people who are unhappy with their figure or that do not want to take the risks of surgery to reduce weight. You will definitely see results! Better Looks’ numerous happy clients will attest to hidrolipoclasy’s efficacy. Contact us today and get started!

Breast Augmentation New Technique

2007-11-15T12:24:00.000-08:00

Dr. G. Bitar's technique of performing breast augmentation by inserting a saline implant through a small armpit incision at the back of the muscle with non use of any endoscopic equipment is controversial. Doctor Bitar, who has performed over 200 such surgeries, dispute that his results are excellent, and that his complications rates are lower than the reported national rates.
The article written by a plastic surgeon located in the United States, Dr. G. Bitar entitled: "Breast Augmentation: The Axillary Approach" was published in the October issue of Plastic Surgery Products Magazine. The article focuses on performing breast augmentation by inserting a saline implant through a small armpit incision behind the muscle without the use of any endoscopic equipment.
At the same time as this technique is considered controversial by many, Dr. Bitar who has performed over 200 such breast augmentations he also argues that his results are excellent.
"There were no breast implant infections, high-riding implants, double-bubble signs (implant bulging below the breast), pneumothoraces (lung deflation), cases of inability to breast-feed, eternal losses of nipple sensation, major medical complications, or deaths," he states. "My rate of capsular contracture (a condition where scar tissue growth around the implant hardens the breast causing an unnatural look) is 1%," he said.
Prospective studies of saline-filled breast implants approved by FDA in May 2000 showed rates of significant capsular contracture of 9% at 3 years and 10-11% at 5 years for augmentation patients. The general consensus is that infection with breast augmentation occurs in about 1-2% of patients.
While Bitar's technique yields many advantages including shorter intra-operative time, minimal bleeding, less trauma, scarring, pain, and bruising; and a shorter recovery time with minimal complications, his technique has a few minor disadvantages. These include: an evident 2 cm scar under the armpit for the first few months after surgery before it fades, inability to remove the implant through the same axillary incision in case future surgery is required, and finally, the risk of loss of sensation in a small area of the axilla if a nerve is injured.
Multiple before and after photos of patients who underwent axillary breast augmentation along with the complete version of the article can be found on Dr. Bitar's his website
G. Bitar, MD is a board certified plastic surgeon and medical director of the B. Plastic Surgery Institute, a multi-location institute in the US. The editorial was co-written by Mr. Vinood Choopra, a medical student at the USA University who interned at the Bitar Plastic Surgery Institute.

Medical Tourism in Costa Rica

2007-11-14T11:34:00.000-08:00

In recent years, the number of people travel abroad for medical care outside of the United States has skyrocketed. According to Josef Wooodman's Patients Beyond Borders:
As the cost of medical care in the US continues to skyrocket and wait times for many procedures grow longer, many Americans are taking advantage of foreign hospitals & physicians to provide much of their medical care. In fact, the medical tourism market is expected to grow to $40 billion by 2010, and should carry on to boost as the Baby Boom generation ages. In some cases, the cost of care at accredited overseas hospitals offering first-class care is as little as one-tenth the cost of similar procedure in the United States. More than 150,000 Americans traveled outside the United States for health care in 2006, and some project the number to double in 2007; Patients are primarily traveling to India, Thailand, Costa Rica and Singapore. Patients can undertake just about any medical procedure they want, including oral dental work, heart surgery, orthopedics, plastic surgery, neurosurgery, fertility treatments, LASIK eye surgery and cancer procedures. World Congress will bring together under one roof key employers, health plans, hospital systems and international medical tourism providers to share the latest insights on the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead for medical tourism.
Bangkok’s Bumrungrad caters to international patients. According to the hospital's Web site, Bumrungrad was the first Asian hospital accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI), the international arm of the organization that reviews and accredits American hospitals. More than 200 of the doctors on staff are U.S. board certified.
In India at the Heart Institute and Research Center performs more then 15,000 heart operations every year, and the death rate is lower than the rates seen at many hospitals in the United States, according to the authors of Hospitality 2010: The Future of Hospitality & Travel.
Not all overseas clinics will have the same reputation as these two examples, however. Experts advise anyone considering traveling abroad for medical care should carefully think about where they go and whom they get their information from. Complications are seen at every hospital and clinic no matter which country it is based in, so patients should always be sure they are seeing a surgeon they can trust.
There are dozens of organizations that will book your next trip out of the country for medical care. As in Costa Rica; Betterlooks is providing their clients all information needed for them to feel as comfortable as possible when they do make the decision for any type of these surgeries or treatments. For a fraction of what it would cost a person with no health insurance for a complicated procedure, like coronary bypass, a person could travel to somewhere like Costa Rica and stay in a resort for their recovery. Just as many companies recommend, Better Looks in Costa Rica, always recommend their clients to do their own research on the doctor or surgeon, and ask the online assistants as many questions as possible.

New treatment for cellulite.

2007-11-13T13:15:00.001-08:00

VelaShape - New treatment for cellulite.

Nowadays there is a new technology in the fight against that orange skin known as cellulite.

K. Rebes, a former flight attendant, is pleased with her results. "My stomach area is tighter,” said Rebes. “My pants are looser after just one treatment." She gives credits to the cellutites treatment called VelaShape, FDA-approved in August 2007. VelaShape uses massage and two forms of energy.

So how does it work?

"Broad spectrum light and radio-frequency power that heats the tissue," explained plastic surgeon Dr. J. Moreehead. "Not just the skin, more importantly deeper in the skin." Dr. Moreehead says that deep heating breaks up cellulite better than ever, so it can be more easily metabolized and flushed from the body.
Dr. Moreehead admits to being a skeptic about cellulite treatments. But he says he's seen good results smoothing dimples on thighs, tightening tummies, and leveling love handles on men. In 19 years as an aesthetician, Sandi Dixon Perry says it's the first non-invasive body shaping device that she's seen give immediate results."They're noticing incredible inch loss and also firming, tightening in the areas that we're treating," says Perry. "We've actually had clients call the day after their treatment telling us that they can actually see change."

Other cellulite regimens may take a dozen or so cellulites procedures over time. VelaShape commits to have results in 4 to 6 treatments, 30 days or less. The treatment manufacturer admits the patients needs to have maintenance only a few times a year instead of every month.

VelaShape has only been on the market for two months, so not many people have tried it. And results do vary. Some may see a 3-inch loss and virtually all of the cellulite disappears, others may see no change.
Costs begin at about a thousand dollars. It is not covered by insurance. Something very similar to this treatment is hidrolipoclasy, click here for more information

Rhinoplasty Surgery - REPAIR A BAD NOSE JOB

2007-11-09T09:53:00.000-08:00

COSTA RICA 2007-- If you don't like the way your nose looks, rhinoplasty can be an option to change its size and shape, but if you've had a previous injury to your nose, the process can be much more difficult. While the majority cosmetic treatments are relatively safe, this does not mean that each surgery goes exactly according plan. Recovery troubles, unforeseen complications, side things and low skilled surgeons can all contribute to problematic results. Nowadays Rhinoplasty, or nose job surgery, is one of the most common plastic surgeries, but like all treatments, it carries some level of risk. If you’ve had the unfortunate experience of having a bad nose job, there are ways to repair the damage and improve your appearance. With a revision rhinoplasty surgery, you can finally achieve the look you want and eliminate the effects of a badly performed nose job.

Medical Center plastic surgeon Dr. Graig worked on a patient who suffered a broken nose and currently has breathing problems and a nose she doesn't like. He said it would be a difficult rhinoplasty. "Her nose looks overoperated on," Plastic Surgeon Graig said

Difficult rhinoplasties are usually patients with a injury, cancer, birth defect or previous rhinoplasty, in which they feel they haven't gotten the best result they could. He said patients with those problems usually want to improve the function or the appearance of the nose, and often both -- which means a more invasive procedure.

"When we do a difficult or second rhinoplasty, we want to operate with it all open. So, we make a small cut under the nose and lift the nose up to see components. We analyze what we see and come up with a plan to correct it," Doctor Graig said.

In the case of the patient with the wrecked nose, the plan meant taking a tiny piece of cartilage from behind the patient’s ear to use in her nose, dr. Graig said.

Common Reasons to Have Revision Rhinoplasty Surgery

There are a number of reasons to have revision rhinoplasty, from a past botched nose job to a severe nasal injury. Some patients may feel that their doctor removed too much bone, cartilage and tissue during their nose job, resulting in a nose that looks too small for the face. A skilled revision surgeon can correct this problem, sometimes with the use of an augmentation that relies on cartilage from other areas of your body or even a synthetic implant.

In other cases, patients may find that their first surgery did not take away enough tissue. This is generally the easiest problem to correct, because it typically involves merely completing what the first surgery should have accomplished in the first place. Another common request is to repair the patient’s nose to its original, natural appearance. While the success of your revision plastic surgery will depend largely on what the surgeon has to work with, chances are strong that your doctor can correct the damage and achieve a satisfying result.

Preparing Yourself for Surgery

Before you have review on rhinoplasty surgery, it is important to be both physically and mentally prepared. Always spend some time carefully researching the treatment and talking about your concerns with the doctor, questions and goals with your surgeon.

In addition to considerate the potential risks and benefits of this plastic surgery, you also need to have realistic expectations. If you go into your surgery expecting a perfect, flawless result, you may be setting yourself up for dissatisfaction. Talk to your surgeon about this aspect of the surgery in order to clear up any misconceptions you may have about your potential results.

Ask your doctor to show you “before-and-after” rhinoplasty pictures of former patients to get a clear idea of what you can expect after the rhinoplasty surgery. Also ask your surgeon about the rhinoplasty cost to prepare yourself for the monetary aspects of plastic surgery.

After Your Surgery

While you need to prepare carefully for your rhinoplasty surgery, you also need to make sure that you take better care of yourself after your revision rhinoplasty. Arrange for the proper follow up care and always follow the advice and directions of your doctor to the letter. Also be prepared for the unexpected. While the objective is to correct the damage from a previous nose job, not for all time be entirely possible. In some cases, your plastic surgeon may even recommend additional plastic surgery and other treatments to correct problem areas. By preparing yourself for this possibility, you will be better able to construct the decision that is right for your needs.

No. 1 is breast implants in plastic surgery

2007-11-08T09:02:00.000-08:00

The statistics of cosmetically augmentation of breasts are what pop culture suggests they are, … eye popping.

In year 2006, there were 329,000 surgeries in the United States to rebuild, enhance, enlarge, uplift or otherwise change breasts. That made breast enhancement the No. 1 form of plastic surgery, up 55 percent from six years previous.
And there is no statistic or prognosticator, suggesting the popularity of breast plastic surgery is likely to decrease anytime soon.
But if the numbers are clear, the reasons behind them are not. Experts provided a variety of answers, from looks to better surgeries, when asked why breast augmentation is such a boom industry.

"Why do women's breasts have so much cultural power?" asks M. Joles, assistant professor in the women's studies at Cal State Fullerton. "It's a topic that scholars devote whole careers to studying."
Sex – or at least the hint of it – clearly is part of the equation.

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"A 40 year old woman and divorced think larger breast implants lead to richer men," says J. Poznner, M.D., assistant professor of surgery at the University of Miami Education of Medicine.
But other women desire breast implants to avoid being overlooked in other areas of life. "Society rewards women for their looks," says Mary Gilly, professor of marketing at UCI's Merage School of Business. "Men can get by with money and power – Hugh Hefner doesn't get all those young girlfriends based on his looks. But women necessitate to look good to be noticed."
Some suggest that women get breast implants to get better self-image.

Mr. R. Grent, president of the Allergan Medical division at Irvine-based breast implant maker Allergan Inc. says surveys show that women "aren't getting them to attract men, but to believe greater confidence in their femininity."
Miss A. Shamban, in Santa Monica who is a dermatologist and consultant for the "Extreme Makeover" TV show says large breasts are part of society's feminine ideal, which women accept and try to achieve."We're supposed to look like Barbie dolls. We're supposed to have these big breasts, waists of 22, and hips of a young man. Is that fair? No," she says.
Cal State Fullerton's Joles takes an approach that borders on the anthropological, saying big boobs are important in American culture as visible symbols of maternity and sexuality.
And, because men's attention is a potential source of power, Joles adds, many women – though not all – consciously or subconsciously care what their breasts look like because men care."Looking good means looking good to guys," Joles says.

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The recent surge in breast implants comes despite cautions from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration about medical problems that implants can cause.
The FDA approved the use of more natural-feeling silicone breast implants in November 2006 for patients age 22 and up. That approval ended a 14-year moratorium during which surgeons, breast implant manufacturers and regulators watched for any complications caused by the implants.

The agency concluded that silicone implants are probably not linked to disease but could cause problems such as chronic pain, especially when they rupture. For that reason, the FDA said patients who choose silicone implants need to have an MRI scan to look for leaks after three years and every two years after that.

Despite that extra burden, patients are now choosing silicone over saline-filled implants models by about 3-to-1, says D. Alttman, chief of plastic surgery at Irvine Regional Hospital & Medical Center.
The surge in breast implant operations was well under way even before the U.S. Food and Drug Administration lifted its moratorium on silicone implants late last year. Last year's total of implant procedures was up 23 percent from 2005. Now the pace of breast augmentation surgeries is likely to increase, since silicone models are so popular, says Dr. R Gud, president of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Liposuction to reduce male breasts

2007-11-07T13:10:00.000-08:00

Hundreds of men undergo male breast reduction surgery every year, according to I. Lomas, chief executive of Surgical Attractions. Surgical Attractions is a South African tourism company that provides specialist cosmetic dentistry or plastic surgery, recuperation and rejuvenation holiday packages. Having a low cost liposuction surgery.

Maepa, a married father of one, will undergo liposuction surgery.

Liposuction or also called Gynecomastia (Male Breast Reduction) is a surgical procedure in which a narrow tube called a cannula is inserted through short incisions and is used to break up the fat under the skin.

The fat and tissue are then sucked out through the tube using a vacuum device.

John K, 42, who was diagnosed HIV-positive in May, said his breasts started developing a month after he started taking Stavudine, a type of antiretroviral (ARV).

The Hospital has since put him on another class of ARV, Zidovudine.

“The procedure will remove fat and or glandular tissue from the breasts, and in extreme cases remove excess skin, resulting in a chest that is flatter, firmer and better contoured,” said plastic surgeon R. Mixtter.

“You may feel that not enough tissue was removed or that you were left with too much scarring.

“John K. should discuss with his plastic surgeon how he wants to look afterwards,” Mixtter said.

He said after the male breast reduction surgery, John K. will need to wear a compression garment to compress the chest. This elastic vest-like garment will help minimize swelling and promote healing.

“In some cases, the surgeon may insert a plastic tube in the treated area to allow it to drain for a few days,” said doctor Mixtter.

This drain is removed a few days after surgery.

“If you have diabetes, asthma, or high blood pressure, they should be under control before you have the procedure.

“You should be in good mental and emotional balance since undergoing any plastic surgery can be trying. Some men go through a period of depression after any surgery, and this can worsen any pre-existing mental condition.

“You will be sore and bruised for a few days after this liposuction surgery. Scars will look very prominent for some time, but then they will fade,” said Mixtter.

New studies on breast implants

2007-11-06T10:02:00.000-08:00

Grow-your-own Breast Implants studies says.... A revolutionary technique using stem-cell research could soon allow women to choose breast enhancements made of living tissue instead of silicone.

Scientists have been able to grow human fat cells in the laboratory for the first time. They mentioned the breakthrough means patients could, in effect, grow their own implants.

The researchers they claim that, in the longer time, it may be possible to grow replacement organs for transplant surgery.

The target patients are cancer sufferers and others who need reconstructive plastic surgery. But the surgeon pioneering the technique, JM, professor of tissue engineering at the University, acknowledges there could also be a substantial cosmetic surgery market.

Doubts persist about silicone or saline implants which, despite technical improvements, can rupture or leak.

About 15,000 women had plastic surgery in Britain last year, up from 9916 in 2003, according to the Association of Aesthetic and Plastic Surgeons.

In the United States, about 6.2 million people annually need plastic surgery for medical reasons, mostly following the removal of a tumor. The same number have plastic surgery for cosmetic reasons.

Professor J. Mao has developed a way of isolating the patient's stem cells, culturing them into a fatty tissue mass, and then building it around a "scaffold" of the correct shape for breasts or lips.

He said he first took adipose stem cells from a human donor and isolated the fat-generating cells. These were mixed with a chemical, hydrogel, "that can be moulded into any given shape or dimension". Hydrogel consist with a lightweight material licensed for use in medicine.

"You mould them into the shape of the other breast or the missing portion of breast and, instead of implanting silicone or saline implants, we would use the stem cell-derived adipose implant," Professor J. Mao said.

The living tissue implants would not "wear out". And because they are derived from the patient's own stem cells, there would be no problem of tissue rejection, which can arise with tissue from a donor.

"The technique is also applicable for other soft tissue, including facial tissue for example the lips," Professor J. Mao said.

"Patients will have a choice - a stem cell-grown structure or an artificial implant."

But a number of issues are yet to be resolved. One is the question of how the mass of living cells can develop a blood supply to keep it alive once it is implanted.

Another is how to stop the cells from continuing to replicate once the operation is complete.

Scientists hope in the long term, that it will be possible to culture stem cells into complete organs, or parts of organs. This would allow transplants to take place without rejection by the patient's body.

More than 100,000 British women are estimated to have had breast implant surgery, although exact figures are difficult find out. Health fears circulated after a US study found that up to 70 per cent of silicone implants ruptured.

Many british women switched to versions using soya oil - discontinued in Britain in 1999 over leak worries - and saline.

In 1998 in Britain, the Government reviews found no evidence that silicone presented any greater risk than other implants.

There is growing unease in the medical profession at the level of interest in plastic surgery, which has been partly fuelled by TV programmes such as Nip/Tuck.

The British Association of Plastic Surgeons has said that the public obsession is leading to inappropriate referrals and encouraging poorly qualified surgeons to become involved.

200 years of implants

* Materials such as ivory and sponge were inserted into women's breasts to enhance shape and size in the 19th century.

* By the 1940s breasts implants were being directly injected with paraffin and silicone derivatives.

* Silicone gel implants were introduced in the early 1960s. Soya oil and saline versions have also been used.

Demi Moore did $600,000 worth of plastic surgery

2007-11-02T10:03:00.000-07:00

Demi Moore is becoming an author pretty soon.The actress activily writing a tell-all book about Hollywood's obsession with youth and plastic surgery.

Moore is also revealing some of the procedures that she had had done in an effort to stay young looking.

The 44-year-old told the "Daily Mail" that she's had $600,000 worth of plastic surgery. That includes breast implants, collagen injections, liposuction and a $12,000 procedure to lift sagging skin around her knees.

Moore says she's also writing the tell-all to shed light on Hollywood's obsession with youth and plastic surgery.

Find out the BREAST IMPLANTS COST IN COSTA RICA

Low Self Esteem Little Influence On Desire For Plastic Surgery

2007-11-01T11:32:00.000-07:00

Think only people with low self-esteem have plastic surgery? Think again. A person's overall level of body satisfaction has no influence on whether a person is interested in most forms of cosmetic plastic surgery, according to a study in October's Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery(R) (PRS), the official medical journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).

"This study shows the greater part of people who want plastic surgery have a normal level of body satisfaction," said Dr. D'Amico, MD, ASPS President-Elect. "We use the words 'look as good as you feel' often and it is fine to know this is why the average plastic surgery patient has a plastic surgery procedure. They are not, in fact, suffering from low or poor self-esteem."

The study looked at two measures of body image and contentment -- self-rated attractiveness and comfort in a swimsuit. Overall body satisfaction in people interested in cosmetic plastic surgery, other than liposuction, did not differ from people who were not interested.

People who were fascinated in liposuction did report lower body satisfaction than other individuals. This was factual for both men and women, even when statistically controlling for differences in body mass index (BMI) between the groups. People with a higher BMI and those who felt they were too heavy were more likely to express an interest in liposuction than those who were satisfied with their weight. This may indicate a belief that liposuction surgery is for weight loss rather than body contouring.

"It is critical to remember that liposuction is not appropriate for weight loss," said Dr. D'Amico. "Liposuction is ideal for people who are at or near their ideal body weight, and have stubborn, localized deposits of fat they want removed."
Individuals who frequently monitored their appearance were more likely to report an interest in cosmetic plastic surgery procedures than those who paid less attention to their looks. This suggests a strong investment in one's appearance may motivate individuals to consider plastic surgery.

While men and women's awareness in cosmetic plastic surgery did not generally differ based on their relationship status, an exception was seen in older women. Single and married women aged 56 to 65 were less interested in cosmetic procedures than dating or cohabitating women of the same age.

According to the study that surveyed more than 52,000 people, 48 percent of women were interested in undergoing with cosmetic plastic surgery while 23 percent said they were possibly interested. In addition, 23 percent of men said they were interested in cosmetic plastic surgery and 17 percent were possibly interested.
Contrary to popular belief, older people did not have a higher desire for plastic surgery. Instead, a similar percentage reported interest across all age groups for both women and men.

"People interested in most forms of plastic surgery did not differ significantly from the general population in terms of body satisfaction," said David Frederick, Candidate Ph.D., psychology, University of Los Angeles and study co-author. "However, Americans appear to experience greater pressure to be slender than to have ideal noses, breasts and so forth, which could explain why people less satisfied with their weight were more interested in liposuction."

Nearly 11 million cosmetic plastic surgery procedures were performed last year, according to the ASPS. Women, who accounted for 90% of all cosmetic plastic surgery procedures last year, had 9.9 million surgeries while men had 1.1 million procedures.

Liposuction Cost USA Price = / Costa Rica Prices = $3,000

Vibroliposuction Price USA Price = / Costa Rica Cost = $3,500

Liposculpture Price USA Prices = / Costa Rica Cost = $1,500

Source in United States: www.plasticsurgery.org - www.cosmeticsurgeryinsider.net

Low Self-Esteem and Plastic Surgery Not Linked

2007-10-30T11:11:00.000-07:00

Study Says.., This may surprise many people, but a person's overall level of satisfaction has little imput on whether they elect to have plastic surgery, according to a new studycase by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

"This studycase shows the majority of people who want plastic surgery have a normal level of body satisfaction," said Dr. Richard D'Amico, ASPS president-elect. "We use the term 'look as good as you feel' often and it is good to know this is why the average plastic surgery patient has a cosmetic procedure. They are not, in fact, suffering from low or poor self-esteem."

The study, which involved 52,000 number of men and women of all ages, looked at 2 factors: how attractive they felt and their level of comfort in a bathing suit.

The results showed overall body satisfaction in people interested in cosmetic plastic surgery, other than liposuction, did not differ from people who were not interested. People who were interested in liposuction did report lower body satisfaction than other individuals.

This was true for both men and women, even when statistically controlling for differences in body mass index between the groups. People with a higher BMI and those who felt they were too heavy were more likely to express an interest in liposuction than those who were satisfied with their weight. This may indicate a belief that liposuction is for weight loss rather than body contouring.

"It is critical to remember that liposuction is not appropriate for weight loss," said D'Amico. "Liposuction is ideal for people who are at or near their ideal body weight, and have stubborn, localized deposits of fat they want removed."

The study also found 48 percent of women polled were interested in having cosmetic plastic surgery, while 23 percent said they were possibly interested. In addition, 23 percent of men said they were interested in cosmetic plastic surgery and 17 percent were possibly interested. Older people did not have a higher desire for plastic surgery. Instead, a similar percentage reported interest across all age groups for both women and men.

"People interested in most forms of plastic surgery did not differ significantly from the general population in terms of body satisfaction," said David Frederick, who is persuing a doctorate in psychology at the University of Los Angeles and the study's co-author. "However, Americans appear to experience greater pressure to be slender than to have ideal noses, breasts and so forth, which could explain why people less satisfied with their weight were more interested in liposuction."

The self-proclaimed "world's first supermodel" is apparently never to old for some self improvement.

Janice Dickinson underwent a tummy tuck and "mini neck lift" last Monday, Us Weekly reported online Wednesday. According to the report, the plastic surgery was performed by Beverly Hills plastic surgeon Dr. Frank Ryan, the same doctor who performed The Hills star Heidi Montag's recent work.

"Janice knows people will think she didn't need a tummy tuck," the source told Us. "She's been complaining about a lot of extra skin [on her lower abdomen and wanted tighter abs]."

As for the 52-year-old reality television star's mini neck lift?

"[Her thinking was] she might as well since she was going under," the source told Us, adding Dickinson is resting at Santa Monica's Serenity after-care clinic.

Dickinson currently stars in Oxygen's The Janice Dickinson Modeling Agency. Before that, she served as a judge on the first four seasons of America's Next Top Model. However prior to the fifth season, the now defunct UPN announced Dickinson was not coming back to Top Model for that classic PR reason -- "to pursue other projects." She was replaced by former British model Twiggy, who remains a judge on Top Model to this day.

Dickinson also appeared as a housemate on the fifth season of The Surreal Life where she -- surprise, surprise -- constantly butted heads with original The Apprentice diva Omarosa Manigault-Stallworth.

Like reality television, Dickinson is no stranger to plastic surgery.

"I consider plastic surgery important because I'm in front of the camera, I still model, and, quite frankly, I was noticing my skin looking like a turkey wobbler," Dickinson told Entertainment Tonight prior to her 2004 facelift, Us reported. "I'm just trying to hang on to what I got."

Mesotherapy Treatment Gaining Popularity

2007-08-02T13:36:00.000-07:00

Countless treatments, pills and products on the market promise a quick fix to losing weight and getting rid of cellulite. One gaining popularity -- a procedure called mesotherapy. The treatment involves injecting natural ingredients into areas you want to get rid of fat.

"Up until about six years ago I quit exercising completely and that's when I started having a little trouble," says Tammie Whittington. The trouble for Tammy included some fat around her stomach. "I just wanted a quick fix. I didn't want to have to diet. I didn't want to go to the gym. I wouldn't even think about doing lipo," she says.

That's when she decided to try the procedure, the treatment is called mesotherapy. The procedure dissolves fat and reduces the appearance of cellulite by injecting a combination of vitamins, drugs and supplements into the middle layer of the skin.

Patients require from as little as one treatment to as many as 15, depending on the area they want to treat and the kind of results desired. Tammy says she's lost 20 pounds since her first treatment in November. "There's no scars. You're not sick. I swelled up just a little bit," says Tummies. And after getting her 50 injections, Tammy was up and back at work.

Some plastic surgeons are not convinced of the effectiveness of mesotherapy. There is also no published scientific studies demonstrating if the effects of mesotherapy are permanent, or how safe it is. Each treatment takes between 15 and 30 minutes and costs between $200 to $295 ( $30 mesotherapy treatment in Costa Rica ).

Source: http://www.kltv.com/Global/story.asp?S=3725061

Anti-Aging Skin Treatments for Men

2007-08-01T08:42:00.000-07:00

Could a skin treatment that helps you look younger and more relaxed be right for you?

Maybe you've finally got the experience and confidence to be at the top of your career game. But if you're like many men over 50, you might feel like you're starting to lose some ground.

One reason: Younger men whose careers are also on the rise. And while they may have nothing on you in terms of knowledge, experience, or even energy, by Friday afternoon, you look like you need a vacation -- and they don't.

"A man's fear of being phased out of the marketplace because he doesn't look as young as his colleagues is very real. Today, more than ever, there is competition with the younger guys, and a lot of men are beginning to feel it," says dermatologic surgeon David Goldberg, MD, director of Skin Laser and Surgery Specialists of New York and New Jersey. "It's not about looking younger so much as it is about looking well-rested, like you have the energy to go the distance."

While diet and exercise can help put that bounce back in a man's step, you can also help level the playing field with skin treatments -- nonsurgical medical procedures designed to give your appearance that rested, relaxed look.

"For quite some time, cosmetic surgery generally has been thought of as a female-oriented area -- and while this may still be true to an extent, the percentages of male patients desiring cosmetic surgery now keeps pace with the increased numbers of procedures performed each year," says Joel Schlessinger, MD, president of the American Society of Cosmetic Dermatology and Aesthetic Surgery.

But unlike many women who want treatments that help them look as young as possible, Schlessinger says men typically want a look that is "rested, relaxed, and comfortable."

Goldberg agrees: "Men want to maintain their rugged looks -- they don't want to eliminate lines, just soften the look of aging and revitalize their skin."

And just how many men are seeking that "year-round vacation" look? According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, more than 1 million men sought skin treatments in 2005. There was a 44% increase in minimally invasive procedures alone between 2000 and 2005.

The American Society of Plastic Surgery offered the following guide to the top five nonsurgical cosmetic facial treatments for men:

Skin Treatment 1: Botox Cosmetic

What It Is : Tiny amounts of the botulinum A toxin that are injected directly into the muscle that lies below a wrinkle.

What It Does: Temporarily paralyzes the muscle, allowing the wrinkle to relax so surface skin is smoother and younger-looking.

Skin Treatment Time: About 30 minutes

Downtime: None, in most people.

Lasting Effect : About six months

Doctor's Comments: Men do this treatment mostly on the forehead, they don't want a totally smooth look like women do. They want some lines, but they just want them softened, and Botox does an excellent job.

Skin Treatment 2: Microdermabrasion

What It Is: In this procedure, a vacuum suction device is used in tandem with a mild chemical crystal formulation to remove the top layer of skin cells. This allows new, more evenly textured skin to come to the surface.

What It Does: Rejuvenate the complexion, help topical products penetrate more deeply, remove ultrafine lines, and give skin a more youthful "glow."

Skin Treatment Time : 30 minutes per treatment, though it does take multiple treatments and several weeks before full results become apparent.

Downtime : None. Skin may appear a little red for about an hour afterward.

Lasting Effect: Several months, depending on age and condition of skin.

Doctor's Comments : This is not suggested for serious lines or wrinkles, and it won't stop the skin from sagging. It is the quickest way to rejuvenate your skin in just one day.

Skin Treatment 3: Laser Hair Removal

What It Is: Relies on energy produced by a laser to pass through the skin, down to the hair follicle. The melanin pigment of the hair absorbs it, where it causes injury to the follicle. This makes the hair fall out -- and makes it difficult for the hair to grow back again.

What It Does: Removes hair from any area on the body.

Skin Treatment Time: As short as 10 minutes or as long as few hours, depending on how much hair needs to be removed. Because hair grows in cycles, between four and eight treatments are needed, usually four to eight weeks apart. Short, coarse dark hair responds best, but removal of all types of hair is possible.

Downtime: None.

Lasting Effect: In some people, it can be permanent. In others, hair may grow back, but it is usually lighter and easier to remove. It's important to note, however, that the hair does not come out during the treatment. Instead, it falls out gradually in the days and weeks that follow.

Doctor's Comment: Most men request hair removal on their backs and chest, and it is usually done for more social reasons than professional career reasons.

Skin Treatment 4: Chemical Peel

What It Is: A topical treatment that uses various types of chemicals to "peel" away damaged layers of skin, and along with it, surface lines and wrinkles.

What It Does: Depending on the type of peel used, it can do anything from simply refreshing the skin (known as the "lunchtime peel," to, in the case of deeper peels, stimulate collagen production to firm skin, reduce wrinkling, improve skin texture, correct pigment problems, and reduce sun damage. All lead to a younger-looking complexion.

Skin Treatment Time: The "lunchtime peel” takes about 30 minutes; a medium peel 30 to 60 minutes, and a deep peel about two hours.

Down Time: Light peel: no recovery or downtime; Medium peel: four to seven day recovery; Deep peel: two weeks healing time.

Lasting Effect: A light peel usually needs to be repeated for results to last several months; the results of a medium peel last about one year; a deep peel is permanent, though new wrinkles can form over time.

Doctor's Comment: Most men tend to want the light chemical peel , it does a very good job of rejuvenating the skin, softening the lines and making you look younger and more rested without any downtime to speak of. It's one of the most popular treatments among men.

Skin Treatment 5: Laser/ Light Skin Rejuvenation

What It Is: A method of facial rejuvenation that uses either nonablative (noncutting) laser beams or other light-based devices to deliver short bursts of energy (called intense pulsed light ) to the skin.

What It Does: Firms and tones skin by stimulating new collagen growth; improves texture and color; minimizes fine lines; gives skin a rested and refreshed look -- all without the use of any chemicals.

Skin Treatment Time: 15 to 30 minutes.

Downtime: Skin may be slightly red for about an hour after treatment.

Lasting Effect: Several treatments are needed for maximum collagen production. Touch-up treatments are recommended every few months to keep collagen production stimulated.

Doctor's Comment: Laser skin rejuvenation treatment is unlike any other skin resurfacing treatment because it uses no harsh chemicals and there is no intense aftercare required, so this really makes it an ideal procedure for men.

Source: www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments

Get Rid of Fat With Ultrasound

2007-07-19T11:39:00.000-07:00

New Nonsurgical Procedure

Want to get rid of those problem thighs over lunch? It sounds too good to be true, but nonsurgical fat removal may be the next big thing in cosmetic procedures.

One experimental treatment, known as noninvasive body contouring, involves focused ultrasound waves that target that "impossible to diet away" fat found on the hips, thighs, and stomach. There is no incision, each session lasts about an hour, and patients can go right back to work after a treatment.

"There may be some moderate tingling, but patients don't find this to be painful," says Rod J. Rohrich, MD, former president of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

The treatment is one of several promising new nonsurgical approaches for removing excess body fat t.

'Not Like Liposuction'

The procedure is not for people who want to get rid of a lot of excess body fat. Instead, it is for those who have isolated areas of extra fat that are not helped by diet and exercise.

"It is not like liposuction, which can remove a great deal of fat," Rohrich says. "But it is perfect for patients who have no desire for surgery, but are looking for modest reductions in these problem areas."

Most patients need three or four one-hour treatments. During each session, ultrasound probes massage the skin, causing the fat cells beneath to rupture and die. The body then simply rids itself of the dead cells.

Rohrich characterizes the results seen in clinical trials in Israel and Europe as "very promising."

Other Ways to Avoid the Knife

St. Louis plastic surgeon Leroy Young, MD, agrees that the treatment is promising. But he says several other new, nonsurgical approaches for fat removal are also on the horizon.

One of these, known as mesotherapy, is not really new at all. Instead of ultrasonic waves, mesotherapy relies on repeated injections just under the skin to kill fat cells further down.

The treatment has been used in France for decades, but clinical studies are just beginning in the U.S.

The drugs used in the injections are approved for other uses in the U.S. but have not been approved for fat removal.

Researchers are also working on a nonsurgical laser procedure specifically marketed for the removal of cellulite.

Young, who chairs the ASPS task force on emerging trends in plastic surgery, says before-and-after pictures of patients who have had the procedure show dramatic improvements.

"Nothing else has ever worked for cellulite, so we'll see," he says.

Breast Implant Safety

2007-07-19T11:07:00.000-07:00

Over the past few years, much attention has been focused on the safety of silicone-gel-filled breast implants. Some women who have them have complained of chronic low-grade fever, fatigue and joint pain and have attributed these discomforts to their breast implants.

This raised concerns about a possible connection between silicone leaking into the body and the occurrence of connective-tissue and immune-related (autoimmune) disorders such as scleroderma or rheumatoid arthritis.

Because of these and other concerns, a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Advisory Council panel met to review the issues. On April 16, 1992, the FDA concluded its investigation. Although the panel did not find silicone-gel-filled implants to pose a health risk, it concluded that implant manufacturers had not provided adequate data to confirm the absolute safety of the devices.

The panel announced that silicone-gel-filled implants would continue to be available, but only if saline-filled implants are not an option. For this reason, most plastic surgeons are using saline-filled implants almost exclusively.

When silicone-gel implants are used, it is only under a strict set of criteria. Patients who have silicone-gel-filled devices implanted must agree to participate in a study designed to monitor their health for five years or more after surgery. These and other research studies are now underway to answer questions regarding the safety and long-term effects of these devices.

Saline-filled implants are still available without restriction for breast reconstruction. However, the FDA is also expected to require manufacturers of these devices to submit safety and effectiveness information in the near future.

Conflicting Evidence

In 1999, the Department of Health and Human Services commissioned the Institute of Medicine (IOM) to conduct an independent review of all past and ongoing scientific research regarding the safety of silicone breast implants.

Following are the most prominent points of the report:

Positive Findings

Silicone implants do not cause major disease
Breast implants have improved
Radiation doesn't harm implants and vice versa
In general, silicone is safe

Negative Findings

Most problems with silicone implants are local
Breast implants do not last forever

Talk To Your Doctor

While the topic of breast implants remains controversial, both types (saline- and silicone-filled) are still currently available. If you have questions about the safety of implants, talk to your plastic surgeon.

Source: http://www.webmd.com/skin-beauty/cosmetic-procedures-breast-implant-safety

Caring for Sutures

2007-07-19T10:53:00.000-07:00

So your surgery is over and you've been sent home with sutures. Be prepared to handle the site with care. These sutures will be with you for at least a few days, depending on your situation and the area of the body that's affected. It's extremely important that you follow all your surgeon's instructions on how to care for the site to ensure proper healing and minimal scarring.

Here's How To Ensure Proper Healing:

Avoid water or other moisture the first 24 hours
After that time has passed, you can begin washing it with soap and water (very gently), up to two times per day
Your surgeon can prescribe an antibiotic ointment. You will want to apply this to the site after washing.
You will need to have your sutures removed on the day designated by your surgeon. It's very important that you adhere to this, because leaving the sutures in longer than needed can cause unnecessary scarring.

What To Watch For:

Redness that goes beyond the basic edge of the wound
Fever over 100 degrees (sign of an infection)
Any unusual coloring or discharge, including pus
Unusual tenderness or swelling. Remember, you will experience the most tenderness in the second day, but it should subside each day thereafter. If there is any indication that this is not happening, contact your doctor.
Stitches that come out sooner than expected. If this happens, contact your doctor immediately.

Even after you have your stitches removed, it's crucial to care for the site with an ointment or cream that your surgeon can recommend. Protect the site from any unnecessary injury for at least four weeks following stitch removal.

If you have stitches that dissolve, make sure you understand exactly when they should dissolve and how to care for the site during and after that period.

8 New Trends in Cosmetic Surgery

2007-07-18T12:34:00.000-07:00

The wizards of beauty are working their magic, whipping up longer-lasting wrinkle fillers, fine-tuning Botox and liposuction treatments, even debuting silicone butt implants. That's right, butt implants.

"The public seems to want this," James Wells, MD, president of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, tells WebMD. He is on the clinical faculty of the University of California at Irvine and a private practice plastic surgeon in Long Beach.

1.Butt Implants. It's a cultural phenomenon that's moving northward. "Buttock implants are very popular in South America, where Brazilian women want to have very round, curvaceous buttocks," Wells tells WebMD. "Breasts are big here, but in Brazil, it's buttocks."

The implants have a more "solid" covering than breast implants because they must sustain weight, he says. "There's been an increasing interest from the public, so surgeons want to know more about them."

2.Breasts Deliver Drugs. Who knew? Silicone breast implants, because they are covered by permeable membranes, can be drug carriers, in fact, they can act as timed-release drug carriers. Researchers are looking to include a drug in the implant that can reduce the scar that occurs around the implanted breast.

3.Believe in Botox. Male or female, almost everyone wants a younger-looking face. "There are job retention issues," says Wells. "We see men in their 40s and 50s knowing they need to compete with others in their 20s, 30s. You and I both hear stories of people with equal talents, but the person who looks better gets the nod. Appearance is a big issue."

"Botox has probably been the greatest product in the last 20 years," says Seth A. Yellin, MD, chief of facial plastic surgery at Emory Healthcare. "It has an incredible safety profile, still in my opinion the single thing I would take on a desert island to make people look better."

First used to treat crow's feet and eyebrow creases, Botox is making inroads all over the face of America. One popular use: Injecting Botox to soften lines around the mouth -- "the ones that make you look angry, even when you're not. [But] it takes an experienced plastic surgeon to get it right," he says.

Aesthetic surgeons are perfecting their technique, sharing secrets. If not done right, there's "risk of losing oral function -- you don't want to do that," Yellin adds.

4.Better Than Collagen. A product called Restylane (or Perlane) -- very popular around the world as a filler for both wrinkles and lines -- acts much like collagen, yet is longer-lasting. However, it is not yet FDA-approved, says Wells.

"We're interested in facilitating its introduction into the American market," he tells WebMD. "It seems to be easier to use than collagen and has longer staying power. Most tissue fillers, even the person's own fat, have an uncertain lifespan. The information we have on [Restylane] looks very exciting. We can't wait to get it through the FDA and use it in this country."

Restylane is made of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring molecule in the skin -- one that draws water to itself and allows the skin to remain hydrated, explains Yellin. Though created in the laboratory, the injectable form is longer lasting than any other wrinkle fillers -- perhaps lasting up to one year. There also are virtually no allergic reactions to Restylane.

"The FDA should be approving it in the second quarter of next year," he tells WebMD.

5.Combo Package. Whereas Botox can smooth the wrinkled lines in your face, it often takes fillers to completely get rid of them. "If you have a well-formed crease, Botox will soften it, but it won't make the well-formed crease disappear," says Yellin. "Fillers complement Botox. Laser resurfacing can also complement Botox."

Other wrinkle fillers are in the works, he says. One company is working on a product made from human foreskin. Yellin is developing one made from the placenta, which is normally discarded after delivery.

His theory: Cells extracted from the placenta can be injected into the skin, where they might stimulate cells to grow their own collagen. Normally, human collagen -- when injected -- does not live long because it does not have a blood supply. "This will have its own blood supply, so it will live," he tells WebMD. It's only in the laboratory phase, though, so don't get too excited.

6.Speedy Healers. After a face-lift, fibrin glues and tissue sealants help seal wounds quicker, control bleeding and bruising, and reduce swelling -- which hasten healing, Wells tells WebMD.

Fibrin glue is another product that mimics nature: "Your body makes a tissue glue in response to an injury," Wells explains. "When you fall down and scrape your knee, the weeping that creates the scab is fibrin glue. When you have a facelift -- or wherever we introduce injury -- the body's process is to leak this material out."

"I use fibrin glue as a routine part of facial aesthetic procedures, have been doing so for over a year," says Yellin. The product can be squirted into an area or sprayed -- like spray paint, he says. "It's supposed to seal up any little capillaries, reduce bruising. But it won't reduce significant bruises."

7.Souped-Up Liposuction. New, high-powered suction devices are especially good for the fibrous areas of the male breast, the flank, the love-handle area -- or for people who are having their second procedure. Because the device has more power, there is less bruising, says Wells. The machine also allows the surgeon to shape or contour the area more easily.

Liposuction devices that are ultrasound-guided are a bit riskier and less effective, "because they don't go around curves and bends very easily," Wells adds. "Also, heat [from the device] can cause some injury to tissue."

Three-dimensional imaging is a new technology that's enhancing all plastic surgery procedures, says Wells. "It increases the depth perception of everything we do. Anytime we can use technology to get a sense of thickness or depth, it allows us to make better judgments."

8.The Peels. These treatments for sun-damaged skin are practically old news, they're so popular. Microdermabrasion involves removing the superficial layers in a nonsurgical way to let the undamaged layers come up. These skin layers look healthier; it's the difference between a younger person and an older person -- the thickness of the skin, the turnover rate of the cells, and they're better hydrated. It's a series and process of treatments rather than one.

Chemical peels accomplish the same thing, but are a bit more "aggressive" treatment, says Wells.

Just Say No. Not that peels, fillers, and endless suctioning are always the answer, he adds.

Today's plastic surgeons are taking a more holistic approach to patient care, he tells WebMD. "We can approach a patient's problems as a surgical exercise, or take a broader perspective regarding the patient's overall health -- dietary habits, smoking, heart disease. Physicians have to think of themselves as physicians first and plastic surgeons second."

"The plastic surgeon has a responsibility to apply judgment, to tell a patient when it's not a good idea to have surgery, to suggest alternatives if their unhealthy lifestyle puts them at risk," he tells WebMD

Source: http://www.webmd.com/content/Article/53/61305.htm?pagenumber=3

Winter: the nip-tuck season

2007-07-10T15:32:00.000-07:00

When should you go under the knife to guarantee looking your best in time for summer?

This time of year, thanks to forgiving winter fashion, it's easy to 'forget' about the extra pounds you gained over Christmas. But fast forward six months and jiggling thighs and love handles are less easy to disguise in a string bikini.

Whilst crash dieting and a punishing gym regime are always an option, experts agree that for those who aren't squeamish about going under the scalpel, surgery offers a quicker, more effective and longer-lasting solution to shaping up for summer.

And it seems more and more women are choosing their cosmetic surgeon over their trainer in the battle of the bikini-body bulge."The Christmas period is a very busy time for all types of surgery.' explains leading London plastic surgeon Rajiv Grover. "This is because people have more time to hide away and recover. From February consultations and surgery increase significantly as people have had time to get over the festive period and return from their holidays.

The fact that spring and summer are fast approaching is certainly a factor that could influence people's decision to have surgery particularly if they are considering a breast operation or liposuction.' "It's not unusual to see a boost in the number of aesthetic surgery bookings in early spring,' explains a spokeswoman for BAAPS. 'With people asking for the surgery in place of a more conventional present, or treating themselves as part of their New Year's Resolution - choosing the slimming success of a cosmetic procedure, rather than shelling out for yet another unused and ineffectual gym membership."

So if this year you'd rather use those winter layers to conceal the tell-tale signs of post-operative healing, rather than post-Christmas weight gain, check out the guide to the surgery season.

Detailing the latest procedures for slimming, sculpting, toning and trimming your body's black spots.

Make this cosmetic surgery calendar your indispensable guide to scheduling your surgery, guaranteeing your scars have faded and you're figure fixed and ready to flaunt in time for summer.

January:Breast Reduction or Mammoplasty

Best for: Balancing out a top-heavy body shape and especially effective at relieving recurring back pain caused by the weight of disproportionately large breasts. Also popular with women looking to reshape their cleavage as the excision of excess skin and tissue also helps to correct slack, sagging breasts, creating a more pert silhouette.

Why now: As it's not unusual for between one and three kilograms of breast tissue to be removed during the procedure, it's unsurprising that patients can expect up to six weeks of downtime before they can return to full, normal activity.

The process involves repositioning the breast nipple so that it sits higher, removing the unwanted tissue, reshaping the remaining flesh and then removing any superfluous skin. Traditional techniques leave an anchor shaped scar that runs from the nipple, down the breast and under it, but new minimally invasive methods are gaining popularity.

In the initial weeks following the operation expect to wear a surgical bra over gauze dressings, and for the first few days your breasts will be wrapped in an elastic bandage and may be fitted with a small suction drain to draw off blood and fluids.

The scarring can take several months to fade and while bruising and swelling will disappear after three or four weeks, it can up to six months for your breasts to settle into their new shape, meaning it's best to act now if you're hoping to bare all in low-cut tops this summer.

February: Breast Augmentation

Best for: Anyone looking to create a fuller, firmer,more-lifted-looking cleavage.

Why now: Whether you opt for a traditional breast augmentation using implants to introduce or replace lost volume, or the latest technique of thread-lifting breasts to correct sagging, drooping boobs, expect a long wait before you can bare your breasts in a bikini.

While implants are placed under the breast tissue or beneath the chest (pectoral) muscle, thread lifting works by threading barbed suture threads through the breast. The suture has alternate reverse direction barbs which change direction in the middle - this makes a pivotal point to hold the breast tissue taut.

One end is inserted and hooks inside the left side of the breast under the nipple, and the other end is then inserted and hooks inside the right side of the breast and again, hooks in a U shape under the nipple, where the two ends meet. The threads are deep enough to be invisible and cannot be felt.

While gauze dressings can be removed after several days and stitches tend to be removed after a week to ten days, the resulting swelling can take up to five weeks to subside. Scarring will remain firm and pink for at least six weeks, finally beginning to fade after four or five months, but never completely disappearing. As with breast reductions, plan your surgery as soon as possible to leave enough time to heal in time for the summer months.

February: Tummy Tuck or Abdominoplasty

Best for: Anyone looking to achieve that flat as a pancake midriff.Tummy tucks are successful for a range of patients including mums looking to lose their baby belly and slimmers who have shifted thepounds but are left with rolls of loose skin.

Why now: Often combined with a spot of liposuction for reducing the pot-belly effect, tummy tucks involve major plastic surgery and need plenty of recovery time as it helps to tighten slack abdominal muscles as well as removing unwanted fat and fleshy tissue. The initial post-operative recovery period takes around three weeks, but the scar tissue will get worse before they get better, with most patients waiting six to nine months before they see the final result.

Schedule all travel plans for late summer, early autumn as you'll need to keep your navel under wraps and allow yourself a long recuperation period.

March: Body Lift

Best for: Anyone who has lost an incredible amount of weight. This is not about shifting the odd pound, rather it's for men and women who have been obese and through diet have slimmed down but still have great swathes of sagging skin on their arms, hips, chest, stomach and buttocks. Sharon Osbourne is the procedure's pin-up girl.

Why now: Until recently body parts were tackled individually to restore firmness and tone, but an American surgeon, Dr Hurwitz has developed the Total Body Lift. A one-stop surgery that safely and effectively reshapes the body from top to toe.

His unifying approach involves seven to nine hours of surgery, and massive blood transfusions. While most scars can be hidden under bikini lines, this surgery does involve long, horizontal incisions. Usually one is made along the waistline and another just below the breast line, at which point the entire skin flap is lifted.

Post-procedure, you will need to take a month off work and wear a compression garment for around six weeks to help speed your recovery which should be complete after six to eight weeks.

March :Upper Arm Lift or Brachioplasty

Best for:Tackling jiggling flesh on the underside and back of your upper arm - the surgical solution for blitzing bingo wings.

Why now: Traditionally brachioplasty has reduced the amount of spare skin and fat in this difficult-to-tone area, but the resulting zig-zag scar has meant patients are still reticent to reveal their upper arms. New more minimally invasive techniques are being developed though, whereby surgeons make a small asymmetric elliptical incision in the patient's armpit area.

Through this small incision excess fat can be liposuctioned out and any excess skin excised. The results mean a 15% to 20% reduction in patients' arm circumference and the scars are smooth and inconspicuous, hidden in their under arm.Expect to wait three months before the swelling and numbness subsides, for the scar to fade down and before it's possible to take any form of strenuous lifting or exercise such as swimming.

April: Thermage skin tightening

Best for: Loose, slack skin that won't respond to exercise or topical creams and treatments. Ideal for anyone who has lost weight and now needs to firm and tone excess flesh on arms, legs and abdominals.

Why now: Unlike other laser-based treatments that rely on a minimum of four treatments to deliver results, Thermage is a single session procedure. However, experts agree it can take two months before the benefits become obvious, but with the effects lasting up to 24 months it is worth acting now to ensure your figure is firm enough to flash in the coming months.

Targeting trouble spots, Thermage passes radio frequency waves via a probe through the skin's surface and deep down into the dermis where it heats the supporting network of collagen and elastin, kick-starting it to work more effectively whilst encouraging the existing fibres to contract and tighten, resulting in visibly tauter, smoother skin.

April: Bottom Sculpting

Best for: Adding volume to flat, shapeless buttocks, or restoring and repositioning a sagging bottom.

Why now: The Brazilians know a thing or two about looking good on the beach while wearing next to nothing, so if you want to overhaul your derriere, now is the time to make a plastic surgery pilgrimage to Rio de Janeiro.

The best 'bottom lift' in town, is the 'Pitanguy lift', he applies the science of traditional face-lifting to the buttock area, using tiny, discrete incisions to remove fat, retract and rotate the gluteus muscle to make it sit higher and correct drooping, finally retracting the skin for a more youthful look.

Recovery takes from eight to ten weeks, with a little longer for the small scars to fade and become even more negligible.

May: Laser Lipolysis or Liposelection

Best for: Patients looking to 'spot-check' certain body parts such as thighs, abs and buttocks. It is aimed a subtly reshaping your body, unlike a lift or tuck which involves extensive remodelling.

Why now: Unlike traditional liposuction that literally suctions out healthy tissue and flesh along with unwanted fat cells, this new method uses a Vaser (comparable to an ultra sound machine) that heats and liquifies specific fat cells. By targeting these cells and emulsifying them prior to their extraction means the process involves less force and trauma to the body.

It also means the results are smoother and more even, and the recovery time is dramatically reduced. The procedure can remove up to five litres of fat and after just four to six weeks, the results are clearly visible and all tell-tale signs of bruising and swelling will have subsided.

Source: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/femail/article.html?in_article_id=430435&in_page_id=1879&in_a_source=

Plastic Surgery & Older Americans

2007-07-10T15:09:00.000-07:00

Experts say thousands of men and women, aged 65 and older, are getting plastic surgery, the numbers jumping from nearly 121,000 in 1997 to more than 425,000 in 2001, according to surgeons.

Gladie Sargeant had her first cosmetic surgery in 1988. An eye-lift, a face-lift, a nose job, and a chemical peel -- all at once. "I was so excited I couldn't wait to do it", says Gladie, now a resident of Los Angeles, who grew up in Boston, Massachusetts. "As they were wheeling me down to the O.R. I said to myself, 'Boy this is the greatest adventure of my life.'"

The surgery was a birthday gift from her late husband. "It was a kick, really, and it's carried me right through," Sargeant says, adding that she did it to boost her low self-esteem.

Plastic surgery for the senior set -- is it the result of ageism? Activist and former National Organization for Women President Patricia Ireland thinks so. "The notion that age is unattractive has such a hold on all of us that we're willing to cut up our faces, to have the risks of general anesthesia -- for somebody else's idea of what's beautiful is a little frightening," she said.

Plastic surgeon Dr. Sheldon Sevinor specializes in nipping and tucking older adults.

Statistics for the increase come from the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), which also says that liposuction is the most common surgery. Face-lifts rank fifth, according to the plastic surgery group.

Boston plastic surgeon Dr. Sheldon Sevinor has been practicing for more than 25 years. He specializes in nipping and tucking those in their sixth decade and beyond. Dr. Sevinor says, "I tell my patients, you don't have to apologize to want to undergo cosmetic surgery, assuming you're healthy, if you in your 60s, 70s, even 80s today."

Dr. Sevinor says although advanced age itself is no reason to avoid having cosmetic surgery, it does pose additional concerns. One concern: skin elasticity. Older patients who undergo liposuction in the abdominal area often require a modified tummy tuck to get rid of excess skin that has lost its elasticity.

ASAPS suggests when it comes to eyelid surgery, tissue removal may need to be more conservative, since older patients have a greater tendency to develop "dry eye." For facial peels, several mild peels may sometimes be preferable to a deep chemical peel, since an older adult's skin is significantly thinner.

Sargeant's recovery took almost three weeks.
As noted on its Web site, ASAPS indicates surgical techniques are sometimes modified for older adults. For example, when a face-lift is performed on someone with thinning hair, the incisions may be placed to better camouflage the scars. Older patients who have a face-lift may choose to have their earlobes reduced at the same time because earlobes grow and stretch with aging, and may look out of proportion after a face-lift.

People age 65 and older may have illnesses or conditions that put them at greater risk from surgery. And, they are more likely to be on medications that might interfere with an operation.

For those reasons, Dr. Sevinor says, he's more compulsive about safeguards with the 65-plus group," ...by getting medical clearance with their own personal physician, getting clearance from the anesthesia department and have it in a safe setting, that is a hospital environment."

Healing can also take longer than with younger patients.

Gladie Sargeant's recovery took almost three weeks. But she says she'd do it all again -- in a heartbeat. "I'd say to everyone -- go for it. Anyone who wants it, you go for it. It's like traveling. You do it as long as you're able."

Source: http://archives.cnn.com/2002/HEALTH/08/16/seniors.plastic.surgery/index.html

Cosmetic Surgery Vacations

2007-07-10T08:25:00.000-07:00

One of the latest trends in cosmetic surgery is offshore operations. But you should think seriously about a sun, sand, surf and stitches vacation, says the CDC, surgeons, plastic surgery societies and other experts.

Interest in cosmetic surgeryin the U.S. is just about over the moon.

Not only do we spend our spare time watching television reality and drama shows about facial and body rejuvenations, but millions of us pony up and present our not-so-perfect countenances to cosmetic surgeons in record numbers. We may even be in the middle of a cosmetic surgery bubble.

But vacation facelifts? Overseas cosmetic surgery has become a trend, and like every other fad, there are pros and cons. Sure, offshore procedures are cheaper, but danger and complications may lurk.

Ads for cosmetic surgery in exotic places around the globe are popping up just about everywhere. Some suggest you have your surgery in the U.S. and then recover in the dream vacation of a lifetime.

However, many other ads ask you to travel to distant locales to undergo a facial rejuvenation. For instance, Xinhua, China, is currently popular with its 100 cosmetic surgery centers while Malaysia targets breast surgery tourists. Airlines are also getting in on the trend. For instance, Valuair, Singapore’s first budget airline, is launching a series of regional tours that combine short holidays with stops for cosmetic surgery. The airline’s Meditour to Bangkok runs $2200 from California. Internet surfers are bringing up Beautiful Vacations, a website written in English, French, Dutch, German and Arabic. The site arranges cosmetic, plastic and reconstructive tours to Indonesia. Costa Rica advertises itself as “the Beverly Hills of the South” because it has so many cosmetic surgeons.

Of course, a cosmetic surgery vacation is not without risk. For instance, so many women in the Eastern U.S. have been traveling to the Dominican Republic forfat removal procedures; the process has picked up its own moniker: Lipotourism.

“Something that cheap can be very costly -- it can cost your life,” says New York City Councilman Miguel Martinez who is concerned because many New York City residents have been returning home after surgery and then complaining of boils, swelling and red splotches on their skin. Botched surgery returnees have also been reported in Massachusetts, North Carolina, Rhode Island and Puerto Rico.

In England, the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons is seeing increasing numbers of patients seeking facelifts traveling to East Europe or Africa for low-cost surgery. One English plastic surgeon said he saw two patients who went to Eastern Europe for abdominoplasty (“tummy tuck”) whose wounds reopened following the surgery.

Before you sign on to a cosmetic surgery vacation, advises the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, (ASAPS) you should think about your medical condition. Do you really want to sign up for water skiing, gymnastics or the fifty foot diving platform with fresh stitches?

“Suffice it to say, you won’t be ready for horseback riding or a round of golf,” advises the ASAPS. “Most cosmetic surgeries involve restrictions on normal activities, and particularly, on exercise.”

You can pretty well forget about catching some rays, too. It’s because many types of cosmetic surgery require you to stay out of the sun until you are fully healed. Moreover, some antibiotics react badly with sunlight.

Adds one London surgeon: “It’s not a good idea to have surgery and then go on a long-haul flight. The risk of deep vein thrombosis increases with a long flight.”

Further advises the ASAPS: “There are, of course, excellent surgeons in many countries, but it’s hard to evaluate training and credentials of surgeons outside the U.S. Unfortunately, there is no single international standard for quality in medicine.”

That also means an offshore facility may not offer the same safeguards for equipment, personnel and emergency procedures.

If your procedure runs into trouble when you get back home, U.S.-based physicians may not know what to do or how they can help because they usually will not know what specific techniques were used in the first operation.

source: http://www.cosmeticsurgery.com/articles/archive/an~36/

Surgery - Fast Growing Market

2007-06-25T09:14:00.000-07:00

Fast-growing market in abroad plastic surgery.

Company spokesman Patrick Marsek said MedRetreat organized care for 200 people in 2005, about 350 in 2006 and expects to have helped 650 patients this year get treatment in places such as Malaysia and Thailand. Fresno-based HealthMed Tourism is hoping for similar success.
Owners Emily Higby and Fely Guzman have backgrounds organizing specialty getaway packages — wine-tasting excursions to South Africa, for example.

Higby became interested in medical tourism because she suffers from polycystic kidney disease, a genetic disorder characterized by the growth of cysts that can reduce kidney function and lead to renal failure. A kidney transplant could be in her future. "I could probably get it anywhere in Asia for 75 percent less," she said. Guzman owns a medical staffing company in the Philippines that hires out nurses and physical therapists to Asian health facilities.

The women have toured hospitals in Asia and plan another trip this summer. They said they will send people only to places they have visited personally and where they feel comfortable.
Dodd ran into some difficulty after his operation. He had serious complications after he returned home to Hanford. His stitches opened up, and his local doctor suggested he go back to Mexico to see his surgeon. He had several additional surgeries there and a "gastric sleeving" to replace the lap-band. He ended up staying in Mexico for about three months. Today, he talks about his Mexican surgery experience matter-of-factly, boasting of his less-than-200-pound weight on his 5-foot, 9-inch frame. "My quality of life has gone up 100 percent. I'm thinking about cruises," he said, something he never would have considered before. Dodd said the hospital didn't charge for treating his complications and the additional hospital stay. "Jimmy, you were our guest," he said doctors told him. He has since retired from his job as a standards inspector at the Kings County Agricultural Commissioner's Office and has canceled his health insurance, which cost him $500 a month. He said he'll pay cash for routine care and go abroad for surgery.
Most pay their own way

Dr. Carlos Alessandrini, director and owner of Bajanor Hospital, who came to know Dodd well during his time there, said about 98 percent of the hospital's weight-reduction-surgery patients are from the United States, and the rest mostly from Canada. He said most of his American patients don't have insurance and pay out of pocket. The American Hospital Association in Washington doesn't have an official policy on the issue of medical treatment abroad. But spokeswoman Elizabeth Lietz said there are serious considerations people ought to think over before going to foreign hospitals. "You might not have services and care like you have here," she said. "The U.S. is recognized globally for its medical treatment, and we are leading the way in advancing treatment of diseases and improving people's health."

Increasing demand for healthcare abroad prompted the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations in 1998 to start an international accreditation branch. A large part of the demand — at least initially — came from U.S. companies with American citizens working overseas that wanted to make sure they were offering good care to their employees.
JCAHO International's accreditation has patient care and safety and goals similar to U.S. hospitals.

If more Mexican hospitals sought and received JCAHO accreditation — the Bajanor Hospital has not — author Woodman said it might boost credibility, making it even more convenient for Americans in border states to take advantage of lower health-care costs in Mexico.

Distributed by Scripps Howard News Service, http://www.shns.com

Weight Reduction Surgery Abroad

2007-06-25T08:26:00.000-07:00

Three years ago, James Dodd of Hanford weighed more than 400 pounds. He had trouble breathing at night and doing work around his house. He was desperate for help. But when Dodd, 54, started looking into lap-band weight-reduction surgery for relief, his insurance company denied coverage, calling the procedure "experimental." An Internet search for alternatives turned up Bajanor Hospital in Tijuana, Mexico, where doctors perform the procedure for $7,200 — far less than the $37,000 he said he was quoted at the time.

He got the surgery and is happy with the results, despite serious complications. "Everything in life is a risk," said Dodd, now recovered and slimmer. He said he also could have had complications in the United States, adding, "It would have bankrupted me here." Dodd is among an increasing number of Americans venturing out of the country — to places like Mexico, Thailand, Costa Rica, the Philippines and India — for medical treatment because of the high cost of healthcare. Patients can save as much as 80 percent on procedures done by medical professionals often educated and trained in the United States at hospitals increasingly accredited for meeting U.S.-like standards. An estimated 150,000 people traveled abroad last year for medical treatment, and the number is expected to double by 2010, said Josef Woodman, author of "Patients Beyond Borders: Everybody's Guide to Affordable, World-class Medical Tourism." Nearly half had medically necessary surgeries, such as hip replacements or spinal work, heart surgeries, even cancer treatment.

The book, released in March, tells how patients can save 25 percent to 75 percent on anything from LASIK eye repair to neurosurgery by traveling outside the United States. Health-industry representatives said U.S. healthcare costs more, in part, because of skyrocketing medical-malpractice insurance and the higher wages and benefits paid to hospital workers. Costs are high, said Woodman in a telephone interview, "because Americans demand from cradle to grave the most expensive treatment, the most extensive testing." He said the American healthcare system is "stuck" because insurance companies are dictating what can and can't be covered, and consumers are unable to negotiate direct payment to providers.

Dr. Steven Parks, a longtime surgeon and clinical professor for UC San Francisco's Fresno-based medical education program, said that while he has been all over the world and knows there is great medical care available, he advises caution. He said there are also plenty of Third World countries with hospitals and doctors that don't meet U.S. guidelines and restrictions but offer huge discounts. Hospitals here have to meet certain standards, he said. Those who choose to go abroad? "I think it is probably dangerous, and you are probably taking a risk with your life. I think you should find a way to get it done at the good hospitals in town," Parks said.

Woodman has traveled abroad for his own care. He went to Costa Rica for dental work — a root canal, implants and follow-up care — after looking at several other countries. He said he saved about $2,000. The key to a good experience, he said, is to do your homework, find out about the doctors, try to interview them beforehand, and then ask about success rates and find out about the facility. "If they don't speak English, then move on."

Interest in traveling abroad for medical treatment has spawned a new industry: medical tourism. Companies are playing the role of travel agent and medical-care coordinator and linking American patients with overseas hospitals for a fee.

MedRetreat, based near Chicago, was one of the first when it started in 2003.
The company describes itself as "a medical gateway to healthcare abroad where smart medicine and exotic travel come together."

Hospitals in Costa Rica

2007-06-25T07:20:00.000-07:00

Medical tests are increasingly being included as part of the typical Costa Rica vacation package. Provider Hospitals such as the Clinica Biblica are offering them in convenient packages to foreign visitors as a healthy complement to their trip. A high-quality technological infrastructure, US-trained medical staff, and comparatively low prices -all set in a popular tourism destination, are among the chief advantages considered.

San Jose, Costa Rica (PRWEB) June 21, 2007 -- Costa Rica boasts a well-earned reputation as a favored vacation destination for many in the U.S. Recently however, an increasing number of Americans are taking advantage of their exotic vacation trip to include a healthy medical checkup, trading some of their leisure time for one of multiple comprehensive packages currently being offered

Hospitals like the Clinica Biblica, located in San Jose, provide tourists with half-day comprehensive medical tests. "If you don't visit your doctor regularly, you might think you are in good shape; nevertheless you are not making long-term plans for your own well-being. This is why taking a medical checkup is recommended at least every two years. If you invest in your own health now, you'll save on future medical expenses", comments Dr. Rodolfo Leal, Head of Internal Medicine.

"The importance of a medical checkup lies on its prevention qualities; it is a tool that enables you to make sure you are as healthy as you feel. And of course, what better time to have a medical checkup than when you are enjoying a vacation in Costa Rica" adds Dr. Leal. It is also a practical way to identify health risk factors that can be modified, such as an inappropriate lifestyle, smoking and lack of exercise; or those that cannot be modified, such as genetic characteristics, which may cause cardiovascular problems, diabetes, hypertension, among other conditions. Medical checkup packages currently offered by the Clinica Biblica Hospital include parking (or shuttle bus for those staying at a hotel), breakfast and a nurse who provides support to the patient throughout the whole process. An optional one-hour relaxation session is also offered, which includes hydrotherapy and massage. Package prices range from $220 to $680, and are tailor-made to satisfy the needs of different age groups (click for medical check up details):

Laboratory Tests: For people under 35; includes specialist consultation, basic lab tests, imaging diagnostics, cardiology and optometry tests.
Diagnostic Medical Test: For people 35 to 45; includes advanced lab tests, imaging diagnostics, cardiology and optometry tests, and both specialist and nutritionist consultation.
Comprehensive Medical Test: For people over 45; includes comprehensive lab tests, imaging diagnostics, cardiology and optometry tests, endoscopy and audiometry tests, and both specialist and nutritionist consultation. This check up may also include a colonoscopy.
Health Tests for Women: For all age ranges; includes specialist consultation, gynecological checkup, mammography and PAP.

The Clinica Biblica Hospital is a private general hospital founded in 1929, and enjoys a highly regarded national and international reputation for quality care in many areas including plastic surgery, eye surgery, orthopedics, weight loss surgery, and a wide range of outpatient services such as medical check-ups and dental procedures. A great part of its success can be attributed to the excellence of the health care services provided.

Additionally, and to assure its patients that the quality of care is on pare with North American hospitals, the Clinica Biblica is currently undergoing a Joint Commission International certification process, which will soon make it the first JCI accredited hospital in the region. The Hospital is also staffed by many dedicated -and US trained- physicians and surgeons, and can be contacted directly for a free medical consultation and quote.