Practical Steps to Take After Surgery

No matter the procedure, there is always some level of recovery time needed after a plastic surgery operation.  Below are some helpful tips for recovering from a cosmetic alteration, however make sure to closely follow the instructions of your physician.

• Proper Hydration – Surgery can dehydrate your body, so make sure to replenish your fluids regularly with purified water.
• Ice – Swelling is a normal post-operation process, regularly applying ice to the swelling can help the healing process.
• Medications – It is very important to strictly follow your physician’s instructions regarding medications, so do not take aspirin or anti-inflammatory medications unless suggested by your doctor (since they may interfere with your post-operation medications).
• Post-Op Care – No matter how large or small of a cosmetic procedure you are having, it is key that you arrange for 2-3 days worth of care for you and your family.  This includes: meals, transportation, cleaning, etc.  There is no guaranteed method of estimating how fast or slow you will recover from the procedure.

Celebrity Makeovers

From the movies to television, celebrities have not only been at the forefront of plastic surgery innovation, they are also the leading models that patients look to for their own bodies.

In a recent survey at the 2008 meeting of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery in Chicago revealed that nearly half of their polled surgeons met with patients – wanting to look like their favorite celebrities.

It is helpful for physicians to have photos or images prior to the surgery, however it is important to have realistic expectations of the procedure’s results.  Every individual has a different body makeup, the key for any cosmetic alteration is to fully understand the process, along with the risks and rewards.

Facelift Overview

A facelift, also known as a rhytidectomy, has been a proven cosmetic procedure for decades and has been increasing in popularity over the past several years.  The American Society of Plastic Surgeons tracked a 14%-16% increase in facelift operations from 2006-2007.

Facelifts are helpful for eliminating loose skin folds in the neck and laxity of tissues in the cheeks. The areas not well corrected by a facelift include the nasolabial folds and perioral mounds marionette lines which are more suitably treated with Botox or liposculpture, respectively. A facelift requires skin incisions; however, the incisions in front of and behind the ear are usually inconspicuous.

Injectables such as Botox can help with fine lines and wrinkles, however facelifts are the premier procedure for long lasting results.

How the Process Works

In the traditional facelift, the incision starts in a natural crease in the area of the temple hair, follows the natural curve in front of the upper part of the ear, then goes inside the ear, hiding the scar within the ear, then continues around the lobe, ending behind the ear and when necessary continues into the hairline behind the ear. After the skin incision is made, the skin is separated from the deeper tissues over the cheeks and neck. At this point, the deeper tissues (SMAS, the fascial suspension system of the face) can be tightened with sutures, with or without removing some of the excess deeper tissues. The skin is then re-draped, and the amount of excess skin to be removed is determined by the surgeon’s judgment and experience. The excess skin is then removed, and the skin incisions are meticulously closed to minimize scarring and leave out staples.

What is the Best Breast Implant Size for You?

Is bigger always better?  Once you have decided on breast enhancement surgery, how do you approach sizing? You want your new breasts to look natural, but you also want to see a difference.

The key to remember is that breast size should vary depending on every woman’s unique body characteristics…  so the answer will be different for everyone.

Keys to deciding:

1. Analyze your body – every woman’s body makeup is different.  Most women focus solely on their breast size, however to have a successful augmentation, there are other factors to consider such as skin laxity and symmetry.

2. Consider More than Cup Size – Cup sizes vary from retailer to retailer, so it is important to consider breast volume as opposed to arbitrary cup sizes.  One of the best methods of accomplishing this is to bring pictures that match your body goals.  This can be very helpful to your physician in visualizing your ideal augmentation.

3. Choose your Shape – In choosing a tear-drop shape or a round shape it’s important to know that the shape that an implant takes on once implanted is somewhat different that its appearance before implantation. Round implants actually become a bit more tear-drop shaped when implanted and tear-drop shaped implants actually become a bit rounded once implanted. This is due to the scar tissue, or capsule, that forms around the implant. In order to maintain the proper orientation once implanted ALL tear-drop implants are textured. Textured implants tend to feel a bit more wavy than smooth implants and in my opinion a bit less natural. This is particularly true for saline implants and both for saline and silicone implants where not covered by muscle in the lower part of the breast. This is something that one feels but cannot see.  

Plastic Surgery Preparation and Recovery Tips

Prior to surgery it is vital that you take the proper surgical preparation and recovery steps.  Below are the suggestions from the Miami Cosmetic Surgery Guide:

• Do not take aspirin or anti-inflammatory medications.
  • Discontinue herbs and dietary supplements unless ok’d by surgeon.
  • Post op ask surgeon about homeopathic treatments that may speed
• If you smoke, stop smoking for at least 2 weeks pre-op (and anticipate no smoking for the recovery; smoking greatly increases your risk of complications).
• Discontinue herbs and dietary supplements unless ok’d by surgeon.
• Post op ask surgeon about homeopathic treatments that may speed
• Obtain a copy of your doctor’s protocol.
• Arrange to have someone drive you to and from the operation
• Arrange for someone to care for you the first 24-72 hours after surgery
• Fill prescriptions before surgery.
• Purchase thermometer, antibacterial soap, dressings, gauze, etc.
• Set up home recovery area: lots of pillows, books, magazines, journal, stationery, T.V., remote control, videos, favorite CDs, etc.
• Black out windows so you can rest during the day.
• Whistle, bell, walkie-talkies or intercom system for requesting help
• Prepare meals. Consider quick snacks: Protein shakes, soup, applesauce, jell-O, frozen dinners, yogurt, oatmeal, cottage cheese, juice (purchase flexible straws for easier drinking) Be sure to have adequate protein – the body needs it for proper healing. Talk to your doctor about low-sodium foods to reduce swelling.
• Prepare ice packs (can also use packs of frozen veggies or fruit, gel packs, etc.) to reduce post-op swelling.
• Purchase any necessary moisturizers, scar reducing creams and petroleum jelly for incisions.
• Laxatives (pain medications are often binding)
• Eye Drops (after any surgery, eyes can be dry).
• Consider hand-held shower head and bathroom chair.
• Telephone with speaker phone near your bed (turn off the ringer so it doesn’t disturb you while you sleep).
• On the day of surgery, wear loose clothing. They will be easy to get off and on after the operation (a shirt that buttons in front).
• Follow your physician’s directions carefully.

Why Do they Call Plastic Surgery “Plastic” Surgery?

I’m often asked, with all the different surgical options (Botox, Silicone, etc.), why is it called ‘plastic’ surgery.  The word “plastic” derives from the Greek plastikos meaning to mold or to shape; its use here is not connected with the synthetic polymer material known as plastic.

Forms of plastic surgery have actually been documented as early as 2000 BC by Indian physicians.  However the first individual in the modern age (with photographic evidence) to benefit from plastic surgery was a British soldier names Walter Yeo in 1917.  The operation performed was a skin graft to repair damaged skin on his face from the war.

One of the founding fathers of modern plastic surgery was Sir Harold Gillies, who honed his skills while caring for British soldiers during World War I.  His work was continued by his cousin Archibald McIndoe, who created a successful method of treating burn victims during World War II.

After World War II, America took the lead in plastic surgery innovation with pioneers such as Dr. Vilray Blair creating standards that are still used to this day.

Thinking about Getting a Facelift?

More and more people who are unhappy with the appearance of their face due to scarring, sagging skin and/or wrinkles, etc. are opting for Plastic Surgery. Is a face lift right for you? Here are a four factors to consider to Help you decide if a cosmetic surgery facelift is right for you.

1. You Are Really Starting to See Your Age (and you don’t like it)

Let’s face it, your skin is bound to change as you age. Unfortunately, these changes are not always pleasant and attractive. Throughout your life you may have developed small scars on your face, deepening wrinkles and sagging, loosened skin. All of these can be taken care of with plastic surgery. Just because you are getting older — doesn’t mean that you have to look like you are!

2. You Are Embarrassed by Your Appearance

Although every human being is beautiful in his or her own unique way, that doesn’t dull the pain if you are going through life feeling embarrassed by your own appearance. Whether you are depressed by the visible signs of aging, are struggling with sagging skin on your face and neck, or you simply want to make a change to help you look and feel better – a facelift worthy of consideration.

3. You Have Already Explored All of Your Other Options

A facelift is a surgery, and as such, the decision to get a Facelift is not one that should be made casually. You may have less invasive alternatives to resolve the problems you are hoping to address. For example, in many instances acne scars, stretch marks and certain types of wrinkles and skin conditions can be addressed properly with simple laser surgery. There are also a large number of over-the-counter products that are designed to help reduce wrinkles and reverse visible signs of aging.

Although surgery does produce quicker, more dramatic results, I always suggest people consider less-invasive alternatives in the first instance. Surgery can be painful and there are risks involved. If you have already exhausted your other options, only then would I recommend a surgical facelift be considered.

4. You Want Visible Results – and You Want Them Now!

Of course, when you opt to have a facelift, you will need to set aside some time for your body and skin to rest and recover. While laser surgery and over-the-counter skincare products often take a long period of time to make any visible difference — with a facelift, once your recovery period is over you should be able to see immediate, often dramatic, results.

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So if you want to improve the appearance of your face and see immediate results right – a facelift might be just right for you!

To find out if you are a candidate for a facelift, or learn about other non-surgical facelift alternatives, please contact me asap for a consultation. I would be happy to answer all of your questions so you can decide on your next steps with confidence.

To schedule your consultation, please contact The JUVA Skin & Laser Center at 212.688.5882 — and be sure to ask reception for an appointment with Dr. Bruck. You can also contact me using the Contact form on this website.

Your Beauty Bailout Plan: How Cosmetic Enhancement Can Make You Rich!

Okay, now that I’ve got your attention — let me explain…

What do top ranked tennis pro Maria Sharapova, supermodel Tyra Banks and Super Bowl quarterback Tom Brady all have in common — aside from talent? It is estimated that each of them earns over 10 million dollars of additional income from their sponsors simply because they are attractive! In football for instance, it is estimated that good–looking quarterbacks command approximately $300,000 more income than their less attractive counterparts!

But it’s not just celebrities who need to look good to succeed. Studies have shown time and again that physical appearance has a significant impact upon performance reviews and earned income in corporate America too! The ugly truth is, in a competitive market, the deciding factor between people of equal qualifications landing a job or getting a promotion may come down to which of the candidates is better looking. A recent study in the Journal of Economic Psychology concluded that beautiful people earn an average of up to 12% more than those with similar qualifications but who were judged unattractive. Likewise, it has been shown that obese women earn between 9% and 17% less than their svelte counterparts!

The trend to financially compensate people for their beauty crosses all occupational sectors including law, advertising, sports and education. Yale economist Daniel Hammermesh and Jeff Biddle report “People sort into occupations where beauty is likely to be more productive, but the impact of individuals’ looks on their earnings is mostly independent of occupation.” Over the course of a decade, Jeff Biddle studied the correlation
between an attorney’s appearance and income. He concluded “better looking attorneys earned more after five years of practice than their worse looking classmates.” Additional studies reveal that advertising firms display a startling correlation between good looking executives and correspondingly higher revenues and faster growth.

During times of economic downturn, we all need to make the most of what we’ve got — and where necessary, re-invent and re-brand ourselves to maximize our chances for success – both professionally and socially. Why do you think celebrities are such big fans of facelifts, tummy tucks and liposuction? They know that if they don’t look their very best, their livelihood is literally at stake!

So what can you do to maximize your appearance — and potentially, your income?

• Make certain that your hair is cut, colored and styled in the most flattering and
contemporary way. No stray grays!
• Freshen up your look. Take advantage of fashion consultants and personal
shoppers at major department stores and boutiques and incorporate the latest
trends into your wardrobe. Captivate your audience!
• Consider whether plastic surgery and/or certain cosmetic procedures could help to improve your appearance and self-esteem.

Things like pesky saddlebags, sagging skin, excessive wrinkles, dark circles under the eyes and acne scars can be simply and cost-effectively addressed with procedures like SmartLipo, Botox (and other Fillers) and simple laser treatments.

According to Malcom Gladwell, author of Blink, a person’s mind “takes about two seconds to jump to a series of conclusions” about another person. Two seconds of beauty has a big reward: a whopping 15% more earning power!

To find out how you can earn 15% — and look better to boot — please schedule a consultation with me right away. I’d be happy to discuss your questions and concerns about any problem areas you would like to correct — or any plastic surgery or cosmetic procedures you may be contemplating. Let’s think of it as your Beauty Bailout Plan for 2009 and beyond!

Extreme Toddler Makeovers (satire)

Does your baby have a little too much of that pesky baby fat around the middle?
Maybe her thighs are a bit too chubby to fit in her skinny jeans?
Maybe he shows some early signs of developing the dread “man boobs”…

Check out the herculean effort this “very caring” mom is making to get her “physically imperfect”
toddler back to “normal…”

I hope this gave you a good laugh!

(And to think, we plastic surgeons are sometimes accused of taking ourselves too seriously…)

How Much Plastic Surgery is Too Much?

Here’s a question that both plastic surgery patients and plastic surgeons grapple with on a daily basis — at what point does cosmetic plastic surgery simply go too far?

In her recent book, “Men Are Stupid . . . and They Like Big Boobs” – Joan Rivers offers a Woman’s “Guide to Beauty through Plastic Surgery.” In the book, Joan makes no apologies for her frequent nips and tucks. Scoffing at the notion that she might be “addicted” to plastic surgery, Joan simply states that we live in a “youth-obsessed culture” where face lifts, lip injections and liposuction are keys to graceful aging.

In fact, Joan admits that she’s had “so much plastic surgery” that when she dies she expects “they will donate her body to Tupperware!”

As Joan Rivers would say, “can we talk?”

So now I put the question to you… Has Joan Rivers taken her plastic surgery lovin’ ways too far?
As a huge fan of Joan’s work, and out of professional courtesy to her plastic surgeon, I think I’ll take the 5th on giving my opinion …
But I’d really LOVE to know yours! So tell me, what do you think?

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