Archive for April, 2011

Why I Attend Plastic Surgery Conventions

Monday, April 18th, 2011
Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery Insider

Plastic surgery conventions are a place where surgeons from around the country and sometimes from across the world gather to discuss and learn about the latest innovations in the field. As a lipo surgeon in Los Angeles, I find that plastic surgery conventions are a great way to learn different techniques as well as a way to learn from other surgeons who specialize in cosmetic surgery.

I also attend plastic surgery conventions as a speaker. As a presenter, I strive to teach other surgeons different techniques that I have spent years perfecting. I enjoy both educating and instructing other surgeons on some of the most innovative and advanced techniques possible.

In addition, these conventions are a great place to network and meet others in the field who are active in plastic and cosmetic surgery. For these reasons, I plan to continue attending and presenting at these conventions.

Understanding Anesthesia Options

Thursday, April 14th, 2011
Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery Insider

Anesthesia options depend on which procedure you are considering, your age, and your health. At my practice, we offer different types, including:

  • General anesthesia- Under this type of anesthesia, the patient is unconscious. The anesthesia is provided either by a mask, through intravenous line hooked up to the arm or hand, or through a breathing tube. At my practice, we use general anesthesia for breast reduction surgery in Los Angeles.
  • Regional anesthesia- The patient receives a shot of local anesthesia to the nerves of the specific area to be treated. This type of anesthesia is used when large areas of the body need numbing, such as the leg or arm.
  • Local anesthesia- Local anesthesia numbs a small area of skin where an incision will be made. This type of anesthesia can be administered as a shot or applied as an ointment spray. When applied to the skin, it is often called a topical anesthetic and is used for smaller outpatient procedures.
  • Twilight anesthesia- Also known as conscious sedation, this anesthesia uses sedatives to lower your awareness without the completely unconscious state achieved with general anesthesia. Regional anesthetics are sometimes combined with twilight.

As noted, the type of anesthetic used depends on which procedure is performed as well as other factors, such as your health. Your surgeon will determine which type of anesthesia is right for you.

Why the Breast Implant Pocket is Crucial

Saturday, April 9th, 2011
breast implants beverly hills

Women considering breast enlargement in Los Angeles often ask about where their breast implants will be placed. There are two possible locations: subglandular (over the pectoralis muscle) or submuscular (underneath the pectoralis muscle). The decision depends on several factors.

The breast implant pocket is the space in which the implant will be placed. In my experience, most women tend to choose to have their breast implants placed underneath the muscle. By choosing that location, I can provide them with a more natural appearance, because it reduces any rippling. In addition, placing the implant pocket submuscularly reduces the risk of complications such as capsular contracture, symmastia, and what’s known as “bottoming out.”

Other benefits of placing the implant pocket subglandularly include a quicker and more comfortable recovery, as well as keeping the muscles in place. However, it is important to understand your own body frame and related considerations all need to be considered in the ultimate decision. By placing the breast implant pocket in the ideal location for you, I can ensure a comfortable recovery and beautiful results.

3 Steps to Evaluating Before and After Photos

Monday, April 4th, 2011
Beverly Hills Plastic Sugery Insider

A picture is worth a thousand words, but when you’re considering plastic surgery, it is important to understand what to look for. When you evaluate those before and after photos, make sure that the results you desire appear in the “after” photos from your potential surgeon. As a Los Angeles cosmetic surgeon, I advise patients to take the time to examine photos of the procedures they are considering.

While no surgeon can produce the exact same results on two different people, browsing through the photo gallery can help you choose the right professional for you. Here are some tips I’ve created to help you with that task:

  1. Ask yourself if the results look consistently good. If you notice repeated results that are not what you desire, this is a good indicator that the surgeon may not be right for you.
  2. Ask yourself if the results look natural and attractive. A good surgeon will create results that appear naturally beautiful.
  3. Notice if there are any specific techniques a surgeon is using. If the surgeon uses a special technique and you like the results, you may want to compare results only to others who perform the same technique.

Do remember that results will differ for each individual, depending on that person’s natural body shape or type. If you are satisfied with the before and after photographs of the procedure you are interested in, consulting with that surgeon will help determine if that specialist is right for you, as well as whether you are a good candidate for that specific procedure.