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Established January 2000

COSMETIC SURGERY PROCEDURES EXPLAINED:

by a non-medical professional in layperson's terms.
Popular Cosmetic Surgery Procedures Explained

Be Careful, Be Beautiful tm
A partial list of cosmetic and reconstructive surgery procedures with easy to understand explanations.
The administrators and webmaster of this page are not medical professionals.
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2011: Most Popular Cosmetic Procedures
Most frequently performed / 2011 Statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)


POPULAR COSMETIC SURGERY PROCEDURES
An overview of commonly performed procedures and minimally-invasive treatments


Age Spots
Abdominoplasty
Arm Lift
Artefill ®
Blepharoplasty
Body Contouring
BOTOX® Cosmetic
Brazilian Butt Lift
Breast Augmentation
Breast enhancement

Breast reduction
Breast Implants
Breast Lift
Breast Reconstruction
Browlift - Brow Lift
Brown Spots
Butt Implants
Buttock Lift
Calf Implants
Cheek Implants
Chemical Peel
Chin Implants
Chinplants
Chin Surgery
Collagen Injections
Cosmoderm ®
Dermal fillers
Dermabrasion
Ear Pinning
Eyelid Surgery
Facelift
Facial Fillers
Facial Implants
Fat Grafting
Fat Injection
Fibrel Injection
Forehead Lift
Gynecomastia
Hand Surgery
Hylaform ®
Hair Replacement
Injectable Fillers
Juvederm ®
Laser Hair Removal
Laser Skin Resurfacing
Lip Augmentation
Liposuction
Lower Body Lift
Ultrasound-Assisted Lipo
Male Breast Reduction
Mesotherapy
Microdermabrasion
Micro Peels

Mommy Makeovers
Nose Surgery
Otoplasty
Permanent Eyeliner
Radiesse ®
Restylane®
Retin-A Treatments
Rhinoplasty
Rhytidectomy
Sclerotherapy
Sculptra (tm)
Spider Veins
Thermage® - Thermacool
Thigh Lift
T.U.B.A.
Tummy Tuck
UAL Upper Arm Lift
Varicose Veins

After Weight Loss
Wrinkle Reduction
Wrinkle Smoothing
Zyderm ®
Zyplast ®

By board-certified in plastic surgery, we mean certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) or the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.


An Overview of Cosmetic Surgery Procedures
Remember, the information here was NOT written by a medical professional!
The information is of a general nature and not meant to replace the services and knowledge of a medical professional. To learn about this site, please read About Us.

All plastic surgery, whether cosmetic or reconstructive, carries some risk: the possibility of blood clots, infection, bleeding, and adverse reactions to the anesthesia and other complications is very real.
Diligent research and thoughtfuness before you decide to undergo cosmetic surgery is imperative!

If you then decide to procede with plastic surgery to attain your aesthetic goals, you can reduce your risks by choosing a qualified plastic surgeon and closely following his or her advice, both before and after surgery. Check credentials, ask questions, and be sure that the condition of your general health is good enough to withstand surgery.
Please check our Main Menu for links to resources which may help you.

PLEASE TALK TO YOUR PLASTIC SURGEON FOR INFORMATION ON PREPARATION, RISKS, THE SURGERY, RECOVERY, AND OTHER FACTORS WHICH MAY DETERMINE WHETHER ANY OF THESE PROCEDURES ARE RIGHT FOR YOU!

About Cosmetic/Plastic Surgery Financing: Most cosmetic surgery procedures which are cosmetic in nature are not covered by health insurance.
However, there are credit card options and loans available for cosmetic surgery.
Please click here for more information on how to borrow money or finance your cosmetic surgery.


Age Spots
Age spots, sometimes called brown spots, occur with age or with sun-damaged skin, or both. Several techniques are used in the treatment of these commonly occuring skin imperfections. Treatment of these spots may include bleaches, cryotherapy, pulsed light, chemical peels, laser skin resurfacing, and dermabrasion. Treatment may fade, but not completely remove, the brown spots.


Arm Lift
An arm lift (brachioplasty) is performed to reduce fat and remove excess skin on the upper arm (between the elbow and the underarm). As part of the aging processs, and especially after weight loss or due to fluctuation in weight, the arms may tend to sag in this area. The result of this procedure is a more toned appearance to the upper arm. Exercise may help to tone the arms in this area, but exercise along cannot restore stretched skin to it's previous elasticity. A good candidate for this surgery, among other things, should be aat a satisfactory and stable weight.

The incision will be made on the inside of the upper arm which the surgeon will make minimally visible.

Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
Tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is performed to flatten the abdomen by removing excess skin and fat. It also tightens the abdominal wall.

Tummy tuck can be performed inpatient or outpatient, depending on the extent of the surgery and the individual circumstances.


Artefill ®
Artefill is an FDA approved injectable filler that is injected into the nasolabial folds around the mouth to smooth these wrinkles. The device contains small polymethylmethacrylate beads, collagen and lidocaine.
See FDA.gov for more:
FDA.gov


Body Contouring
Many patients consult with their plastic surgeon after a major weight loss to see what can be done about sagging skin. Body contouring after major weight loss improves the shape and tone of your underlying tissue that supports fat and skin and removes excess sagging fat and skin.

Body contouring surgery may be performed to lift sagging and achieve a smoother contour in the following areas: upper arms; breasts; abdominal area; lower back; buttocks; groin and thighs.

A good candidate, among other requirements, should be a a satisfactory and stable weight.


Botox ® Cosmetic
Botox ® comes from a kind of bacteria. The bacteria can make you very sick. But doctors have found that the chemical in Botox™ can also help treat some health problems. They have been using it safely for many years.

How does Botox ® work?
Some wrinkles are caused when a muscle contracts (tightens up). Botox™ is injected through the skin into the muscle with a needle. The Botox™ keeps the muscle from contracting. When the muscle can't contract, the wrinkle doesn't show as much.

Visit our Botox ® Cosmetic page.


Brazilian Butt Lift
Brazilian butt lift is a cosmetic procedure that has become very popular in recent years. Jennifer Lopez, and now Kim Kardashian, have made having more rounded and womanly buttocks very fashionable. This procedure is popular among both older and younger patients.

In a Brazilian butt lift, the body's own fat is liposuctioned from other areas of the body such as the tummy and/or thighs, treated (purified) and then the suitable donor fat is reinjected into the buttocks. The resultant fullness gives a more youthful appearance and profile to the body. This procedure is popular among both older and younger patients. While buttocks tend to droop with age, some younger patients are having butt lifts to round out flat bottoms.

The Brazilian butt lift procedure differs from buttock (butt) implants, in which implants are inserted into the buttocks. Some plastic surgeons prefer butt implants to the Brazilian butt lift because they believe the results of an implant are longer lasting.


Breast Enlargement (Augmentation Mammaplasty)
Breast enlargement, sometimes called breast augmentation or breast enhancement, is a cosmetic procedure performed to enhance the size of the breasts. Inflatable implants filled with saline are used. (Recently, a FDA panel voted to approve saline gel breast implants under specific guidelines. Visit the FDA's page on
breast implants)

Breast enlargement is usually performed outpatient, but again, it depends on individual circumstances.


Breast Implants
Breast Reconstruction

Breast implant surgery may be performed for cosmetic purposes (to enlarge the breasts) or for reconstructive purposes after breast cancer surgery.
Please visit our special pages on Breast Implants or Breast Reconstruction for more information, and for the link to the United States Food and Drug Administration page on breast implants.


Breast Lift (Mastopexy)

The breast lift is performed to raise and reshape sagging breasts. This is accomplished by removing excess skin and repositioning the remaining tissue and nipples.

The breast lift can be either either inpatient or outpatient, depending on circumstances.


Breast Reduction
Breast reduction is also known as reduction mammaplasty. The purpose of breast reduction surgery is to reduce the size of overly large breasts. The procedure involves the removal of excess breast fat, glandular tissue and skin. The purpose of the surgery is for the patient to have a breast size more in proportion with the rest of the body. Many women has this procedure done after years of discomfort and back pain associated with very large breasts. In men, this procedure is called
gynecomastia, or male breast reduction.


Brow Lift - Browlift
The purpose of a brow lift, also called a forehead lift, is to soften the expression lines, creases and other signs of aging in the forehead or eyebrow area. This cosmetic procedure also mitigates the frown lines between the eyebrows, and raises the eyebrows to give a younger appearance to the eye area.

The procedure may help to somewhat soften slightly hooded eyelids, although eyelid surgery is necessary for more obviously aged eyelids.

Brow lifts are usually done outpatient.


Brown Spots
Brown spots, sometimes called age spots, occur with age or with sun-damaged skin, or both. Several techniques are used in the treatment of these commonly occuring skin imperfections. Treatment of these spots may include bleaches, cryotherapy, pulsed light or traditional laser treatment. Treatment may fade, but not completely remove, the brown spots.


Butt Lift
Unfortunately, as we age our buttocks sag. Exercising can improve the appearance of the buttocks as we age, but cannon, unfortunately, completely solve the problem of an aging gluteus maximus!

A butt lift may be the answer. Excess skin is removed from the buttocks and the result is a tightening the skin which will lift the buttocks into a higher position.

A butt lift can also be achieved with fat injections or butt implants.
A buttock lift achieved throught the injection of one's own fat is called a Brazilian butt lift.


Buttock (Butt) Implants
Butt implants, of buttock implants, are silicone prosthetic devices. They must be made to fit the look you are trying to achieve. It is very important to choose a surgeon who is extensively experienced in this type of surgery.


Calf Implants
For some people, due to heredity, illness or injury, calf muscles remain less developed than desired. Sometimes calf muscles are not equal on both legs. Even specific exercises designed to build up the calf muscles may sometimes be unsuccessful. In these instances, calf implants may be the answer.

The calves are made up of three calf muscles: two gastrocnemius muscles and the soleus muscle. There are currently two methods used to place the implants in this area. One is called the submuscular technique, and the other the subfascial technique. Both methods have benefits AND risks and drawbacks. The implants are made of solid silicone and are custom sculpted for the individual.

It is vitally important that this surgery be performed only by a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in performing calf implant surgery. If you are considering calf implant surgery, you may want to search the internet for further information and for before and after photos.


Cheek Implants
Sometimes, with age or after weight loss, the face may take on a drawn or gaunt look. In other cases cheek bones are not as high or as prominent as some would like them to be. These are usually the instances which cause people to seek out a surgeon for cheek implants, which can give the face a fuller, healthier and/or more chiseled look.

If performed alone, cheek implants, chosen in the proper size, will be placed into the face either through incisions in your mouth or in your lower eyelid. This surgery normally takes about 30 minutes or longer.


Chemical Peel

Alphahydroxy acid
Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA)
Phenol

Chemical peel can restore wrinkles, blemished, sun-damaged or unevenly pigmented skin. In some cases, a chemical peel may be used to remove pre-cancerous lesions. (In this instance, health insurance may cover the treatment. Check with your insurance carrier.) A chemical solution, adjusted to suit the needs of the individual, is used to peel away the skin's top layers. The procedure works best on fair, thin skin with superficial wrinkles.

The goal of a chemical peel is to improve the overall look of the skin, and not to reverse an older look or to slow down the aging process.

Alphahydroxy peels are the mildest, and Phenol is the scrongest and results in a deep peeling of the skin.

Chemical peel is usually an outpatient procedure, but a full-face phenol peel may require admission for 1 - 2 days. All peels carry some risk. Please ask you surgeon about these risks before undergoing a chemical peel.


Chin Implants
Chin Surgery
Chinplants

Chin surgery (mentoplasty) of a cosmetic nature is performed to reshape the chin by use of an implant or through chin reduction surgery on the bone. The nose and chin should be in proportion, and sometimes a surgeon may recommend chin surgery to a patient having rhinoplasty.

In the case of a chin implant, the incision may be made either inside the mouth along the lower lip, or under the chin.

Swelling will occur and should begin to subside over several days, but can sometimes take much longer. Strenuous activity must be avoided for several weeks to prevent injury to the affected area.


Collagen Injections
A young looking face is usually a full face. We've all heard the term "baby fat", and this applies to the face as well as the of the body! But as we age the fatty deposits under our skin tend to lessen, giving the face a more drawn and, therefore, older look. The development of wrinkles, unfortunately, accompanies this loss of facial fullness. Many find this to be especially true around the mouth area.

Some of the youthful fullness may be restored non-surgically with injectable fillers such as collagen. Collagen is a natural protein that supports the skin. Injectable collagen formulas derived from human dermis include Cosmoderm® or Cosmoplast®. Zyderm® and Zyplast® are forms of bovine collagen that, unlike human derived collagen, require prior allergy testing. The results may last 2 to 4 months.

Collagen injections can plump up thinning lips, fill out sunken contours, soften lines and wrinkles and even make some scars less noticeable.

Your expectations should remain reasonable when considering injectable fillers. This procedure cannot take the place of a facelift, but should soften the hollows and wrinkles which are the first signs of aging.

Collagen is a natural protein that supports the skin. Injectable collagen formulas derived from human dermis include Cosmoderm® or Cosmoplast®. Zyderm® and Zyplast® are forms of bovine collagen that, unlike human derived collagen, require prior allergy testing. The results may last 2 to 4 months.

The procedure is an outpatient procedures. See Injectable Fillers


Cosmoderm ®
Cosmoderm ® is a sterile injectable liquid made of highly purified human collagen, a natural protein that supports the skin. Cosmoderm ® is injected into the skin to correct soft tissue defects such as wrinkles and acne scars. CosmoDerm ® is used for minor skin defects and to correct soft tissue contour defects, such as wrinkles and acne scars

Please see our special page on Cosmoderm ®.


Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers are injected below the surface of the skin. The use of dermal fillers is minimally invasive and is helpful in filling in wrinkles, creases, lines, and scars.

Dermal fillers are becoming increasingl popular as a first-step in retaining a more youthful face. These fillers plump up the skin, adding volume and fullness to specific areas of the face. These fillers are used mainly to plump up smile lines around the mouth and nose area and the fine lines which form above the upper lip. Fillers are helpful in reducing the severity of frown lines between the eyebrows. Dermail fillers also can be helpful in filling in recessed scars.
There are currently several dermal fillers on the market. Widely advertised are Juvederm ® and Restylane ® and Radiesse ®.

The cost of dermal fillers varies. The length of effectiveness varies, as well. Please remember that there are possible allergic reactions and side effects dermal fillers. These include, but are NOT limited to, infection at the site of injection; swelling; bleeding; bruising; redness; and, on occasion, more serious complications. Please do more research and ask you surgeon about the benefits AND risks of dermal fillers before undergoing the procedures.

We will have more information on dermal fillers in the coming months.


Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion is the mechanical scraping of the top layers of the skin. A high speed rotary wheel is used. The procedures softens sharp edges of surface irregularities, including acne and other scars and fine wrinkles, especially around the mouth.

Dermabrasion is usually done on an outpatient basis.



Ear Surgery - (Otoplasty)

Otoplasty, or ear pinning, is performed to set back prominent ears closer to the head. It is also used to reduce the size of large ears. Ear pinning is often done on children between the ages of 4 - 14 years of age. It is sometimes covered by insurance.

Otoplasty is usually an outpatient procedure.


Eyelid Surgery - (Blepharoplasty)

Blepharoplasty, commonly called eyelid surgery, is performed to correct drooping upper eyelids and puffy bags below the eyes. This end is achieved by removing excess fat, skin, and muscle.

The eyelid plastic surgery procedure is sometimes covered by insurance if it is used to correct visual field defects.

Eyelid surgery is usually performed as an outpatient procedure.

Eyelid Surgery page


Facelift - (Rhytidectomy)

Facelifts improve sagging facial skin, jowls, and loose neck skin. This is accomplished by removing excess fat, tightening muscles, redraping the skin.

Facelifts are usually outpatient, but some patients may require short inpatient stay.


Facial Implants

Facial implants such as cheek implants and chin implants, are performed to change the basic shape and balance of the face. This is accomplished by using carefully shaped implants to build up a receding chin, add prominence to cheekbones, or reshape the jawline with an implant.

Facial implants are usually performed on an outpatient basis, but there is occasionally an overnight hospital stay required.


Fat Grafting
The fat grafting procedure involves using the body's own excess fat (from areas such as the thighs or tummy) to fill out and contour the lips, cheeks or other parts of the body where augmentation may be needed to soften the body's contours. Fat grafting is also calle lipostructore, liposculpture and other similar names. The prefix "lipo" means "fat".

Fat grafting on the face can achieve a more youthful look. One of the main reason a face can look older is due to the loss of fat under the skin. Young faces are generally fuller and have more volume than mature faces. Not everyone is a candidate for fat grafting, so you will have to be honest with your plastic surgeon about whether you smoke, etc.

The excess fat removed from your body is treated before being implanted into the targeted areas, and there are different techniques for this implantation. Please discuss all your concerns about this procedure with your surgeon and, after surgery, you must carefully follow all post-operative instructions.


Fat Injections
As we age we tend to lose the "baby fat" under our skin resulting in less facial fullness. With the loss of fullness comes lines and wrinkles, hollows in our facial contours and an older look.

Injectable fillers from your own harvested fat (performed through liposuction of the thighs, stomach or other areas where excess fat is stored) can temporarily soften the facial coutours and fill in some of the lines and concave areas that are undesirable.
Human fat is taken from your own body and treated. The quality fat then can be reinjected to create facial fullness, fill in lines and folds and to build up shallow contours. Fat injection requires a more extensive procedure than other injectable fillers because it uses liposuction techniques to extract the fat prior to injection.

Injectable filler results may last up to a year and sometimes longer. Results are variable. Fat removed from your body can be stored for future use, but results is not as favorable as fat used at the same time it is harvested.

The cost of injectable fillers varies. The length of effectiveness varies, as well. Please remember that there are possible allergic reactions and side effects with injectable fillers. These include, but are NOT limited to, infection at the site of injection; swelling; bleeding; bruising; redness; and, on occasion, more serious complications.

Please do more research and ask you surgeon about the benefits AND risks of injectable fillers before undergoing the procedures.


Fibrel Injections
Fibrel is derived from a pig's collagen. Allergy testing prior to treatment with Fibrel is necessary. If swelling, redness, or firmness develope at the site of injection, the patient should not be treated with Fibrel.

Fibrel comes in a powerded form and mut be mixed with your own blood prior to injection. The procedure is complicated and involves more time than with some other injectable fillers because of the mixing with the patient's blood plasma. The blood must be removed from the patient first and the plasma mixed with the Fibrel. The opinion of many is that there is significantly more pain with this procedure than with some ohter injectables.

As with any procedure, there are possible side-effects. Please do more research and ask the surgeon questions before undergoing this treatment.


Forehead Lift
The purpose of a forehead lift, also called a brow lift, is to soften the expression lines, creases and other signs of aging in the forehead or eyebrow area. This cosmetic procedure also mitigates the frown lines between the eyebrows, and raises the eyebrows to give a younger appearance to the eye area.

The procedure may help to somewhat soften slightly hooded eyelids, although eyelid surgery is necessary for more obviously aged eyelids.

A forehead lift is usually done on an outpatient basis.


Hair Replacement Surgery

Hair replacement surgery involves the use of healthy, existing hair on a patient's scalp. A good candidate has healthy hair growth at the back or on the sides of the head. The hair from these areas is used as donor hair.

Hair replacement surgery is then done to fill in balding areas of the scalp by using a variety of techniques which include scalp reduction, tissue expansion, strip grafts, scalp flaps, or clusters of punch grafts (plugs, miniplugs and microplugs). Hair replacement works best on men with male pattern baldness after hair loss has stopped.

Transplant techniques, such as punch grafts, mini-grafts, micro-grafts, slit grafts, and strip grafts are generally performed on patients who desire a more modest change in hair fullness. Flaps, tissue-expansion and scalp-reduction are procedures that are usually more appropriate for patients who desire a more dramatic change.

It is important to realize that there are limits to what can be accomplished with hair transplant surgery and that you must have a generous amount of donor hair to achieve best results.

Hair replacement is usually done on an outpatient basis.


Hylaform ®
Hylaform ® gel is derived from avian (bird) proteins and is injected into wrinkles and facial folds to add volume to facial tissue. The effect lasts about 12 weeks.

Hylaform gel is sterile and colorless skin (dermal) filler made of chemically modified hylauronic acid derived from a bird (avian) source. Hylauronic acid is a naturally occurring substance found in cell and tissue fluids. It is chemically, physically, and biologically similar in the tissues of all species. Hylaform gel is made from purified, natural hylauronic acid that is gradually absorbed by the body.

Hylaform works by temporarily adding volume to facial tissue and restoring a smoother appearance to the face. The effect lasts for about 12 weeks. After the initial treatment, “touch-up” treatments may be needed to achieve optimal skin smoothing. Repeat treatments may be needed to maintain the smoothing effect.

Hylaform is injected by a doctor into areas of facial tissue where moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds occur. The gel temporarily adds volume to the skin and can give the appearance of a smoother face.

Hylaform will help smooth moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds for about 12 weeks. Some patients in a clinical study needed more than one injection to achieve a satisfactory result.

For more information on Hylaform ® , please visit our special information page: HYLAFORM (tm)


Injectable Fillers
As we age we tend to lose the "baby fat" under our skin resulting in less facial fullness. With the loss of fullness comes lines and wrinkles, hollows in our facial contours and an older look.

Injectable fillers can temporarily soften the facial coutours and fill in some of the lines and hollows. There are many different dermal fillers on the market today.

  • Collagen
    Collagen is a natural protein that supports the skin. There are several injectable collagen fillers from humans which are currently on the market. Bovine collagen is also available, but requires allergy testing before use. derived from human dermis include Cosmoderm® or Cosmoplast®. Zyderm® and
  • Hyaluronic Acid
    Hyaluronic acid is also a natural-occuring human subatance. Hyaluronic acid works will in plumping lips and in filling in facial lines such as the nose to mouth lines (nasolabial folds). The appearance of some recessed scars and other wrinkles may be softened with Hyaluronic acid injections.
  • Hydroxylapatite
    Hydroxylapatite is a mineral-like compound found naturally in human bones, suspended in a gel-like formulation. It is the heaviest of facial fillers and is recommended to fill deeper creases such as nasolabial folds, marionette lines and frown lines, as well as to enhance fullness of the cheeks and other facial contours.
  • Human fat
    Human fat is taken from your own body and treated. The quality fat then can be reinjected to create facial fullness, fill in lines and folds and to build up shallow contours. Fat injection requires a more extensive procedure than other injectable fillers because it uses liposuction techniques to extract the fat prior to injection.

Injectable filler results may last up to a year and sometimes longer. Results are variable. Fat removed from your body can be stored for future use, but results is not as favorable as fat used at the same time it is harvested.


Facial Fillers
There are numerous facial fillers currently available.
Check "injectable fillers" for more information.


Juvederm ®
Juvederm ® is a colorless hyaluronic acid gel that is injected into facial tissue to smooth wrinkles and folds, especially around the nose and mouth. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring sugar found in the human body. The role of hyaluronic acid in the skin is to deliver nutrients, hydrate the skin by holding in water, and to act as a cushioning agent.

Juvederm ® temporarily adds volume to facial tissue and restores a smoother appearance to the face.

Juvederm ® is injected into areas of facial tissue where moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds occur. Juvederm ® temporarily adds volume to the skin and may give the appearance of a smoother surface.

Juvederm ® will help to smooth moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds. Most patients need one treatment to achieve optimal wrinkle smoothing, and the results last about six months.

For more information, including the possible side-effects, on Juvederm ®, please visit our special page: JUVEDERM ®.


Laser Facial Resurfacing - Laser Skin Resurfacing

Laser skin resurfacing involves the use of a laser (concentrated pulsating beams of light)to remove layers, one at a time, of irregular, damaged or aged skin. The procedure is used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, especially around the eyes, forehead and mouth. Laser skin resurfacing is commonly used to remove or lessen the appearance of facial scars or to even out unevenly pigmented skin. Sundamaged skin, age spots, warts, birthmarks and other skin irregularities may be helped by laser resurfcing.Cosmetic laser surgery of the face if usually performed on an outpatient basis unless combined with other cosmetic surgery which requires hospitalization.


Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal is the use of laser energy (single color or wavelength) to achieve long-term hair reduction. Heat from the laser is transferred to the hair follicle. which leads to inflammation and eventually the hair follicle goes dormant. You should understand that laser hair removal does not usually produce permanent results!

Side effects of laser hair removal, according the the FDA site, can include:


Sunlight should be avoided during healing after the procedure.

Please visit our page on Cosmetic Laser Surgery for links to the latest FDA information on cosmetic laser surgery.


Liposuction - (Suction-Assisted Lipectomy)

Liposucton is performed to improve body shape by removing exercise-resistant fat deposits. A tube and vacuum device is used. Liposuction can also be performed by using the tumescent technique, in which targeted fat cells are infused with saline containing solution with a local anesthetic before liposuction to reduce post-operative bruising and swelling.

Liposuction is most commonly performed on the following areas: chin, cheeks, neck, upper arms, above breasts, abdomen, buttocks, hips, thighs, knees, calves, ankles.

Sometimes, for larger volumes of fat or for fibrous body areas, ultrasound-assisted lipoplasty (UAL) may be used. UAL is a new technique in which a ultrasound probe is inserted beneath the skin to "liquify" the fat before it is suctioned.

Liposuction is usually an outpatient procedure. Extensive procedures may require short inpatient stay.


Lower Body Lift

Often, after a large amount of weight has been lost, the skin will become loos and will sag. The lower body lift surgical procedure tightens the loose, sagging skin in the buttocks, posterior thighs, hips, outer thighs, and anterior thighs. The surgeon will make a series of strategic incisions - the incisions are made in areas where they will normally be hidding by clothes or lie within naturally occuring folds of skin - in the lower body (back, hips, thighs) and will then remove loose skin and underlying fat tissue. Post-operative swelling is common and is controlled by compression garments and the use of sterile "drains". Healing normally takes a month or even longer.


Lipo-Dissolve (lipodissolve)

According to the "Fact vs. Myth" section at www.fig.com, Lipo-Dissolve and mesotherapy are not interchangeable terms even tho they are often confused.

The information at www.fig.com states:
Lipodissolve is a procedure that uses standardized protocols for subcutaneous micro-injections with the sole purpose of dissolving fat.Mesotherapy injections are delivered into the hypodermis layer and can contain a combination of vitamins, minerals, amino acids and medications to treat a variety of medical conditions.,/i>

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA.gov) has not, as of this date, approved Lipo-Dissolve for fat loss. Please visit www.FDA.gov for the latest info.

Lip Augmentation

Lip augmentation is performed to create lips which are fuller and more plump and to reduce fine wrinkles around the patient's mouth. Either collagen or fat transferred from another part of the patient's body may be injected. The body will, over time absorb the injected collagen or fat so that this a treatment which must be repeated to maintain the desired results. Other injectables are being developed and used, as well, so consult with a plastic surgeon who specializes in lip augmentation to learn your options.


Male breast reduction - (Gynecomastia)

Gynecomastia is performed to reduce enlarged, female-like breast in men using liposuction and/or cutting out excess glandular tissue. This procedure is sometimes covered by medical insurance. (

Male breast reduction is usually an outpatient procedure.


Mesotherapy - Alternative to liposuction?

Mesotherapy, while pioneered in the 1950s by a French doctor, Dr. Michel Pistor, is a relatively new procedure in the U.S. Dr. Lionel Bisson (tm) is credited with having brought the procedure to the United States around that time, according to mesotherapy.com.
In mesotherapy, injections are made into the "mesoderm", or the layer of connective tissue and fat which lies under the skin. The injections may contain varying substances, including drugs and plant extracts. Lecithin, an emulsifier (emulsifiers help mix fats with liquids), is commonly used in these injections. Mesotherapy is used in body contouring of the jawline, waist, hips, etc., and is touted by some as an alternative to liposuction. But since mesotherapy has not been the subject of indepth clinical studies, there are concerns about its longterm effects and safety.

NOTE:We have not been able to find any information at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration web site on the keyword "mesotherapy".
http://www.fda.gov


Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion, as opposed to dermabrasion which can correct deep scars and wrinkles, removes ony a very fine layer of skin. But the gentle peeling can help remove fine lines, superficial scars, stretch marks, age and sunspots and it can also help with acne. Basically, microderm abrasion improves the overall complexion but also removes some mild imperfections.


Neo Strata

NeoStrata is a professional skin care system developed by some of the world's top skin care experts and is available exclusively through dermatologists and plastic surgeons. Utilizing an effective combination of alpha hydroxyacids, botanical and marine extracts, vitamins, antioxidants, and sunscreen, this advanced skin care system stimulates the regeneration of older skin, curbs the premature aging of skin, and improves acne, uneven pigmentation, and age spots.


Radiesse ®
According to the official web site:
Radiesse® is a safe, next generation dermal filler that does more than just fill in lines and wrinkles – it volumizes. In fact, Radiesse is setting a new standard in facial fold and wrinkle correction. This treatment restores a natural, youthful look that lasts. In many patients, the results may last for a year or more. Numerous medical studies have shown that Radiesse is a safe and effective treatment for filling and correcting smile lines, nasolabial folds, and wrinkles around the nose and mouth. Radiesse stimulates the body to produce new collagen. This unique response provides immediate, visible improvement of folds and wrinkles, and provides long-lasting and beautiful results.


Nose Surgery - Nose Reshaping (Rhinoplasty)

Rhinoplasty, or nose reshaping, is performed to reshape nose by reducing or increasing size, removing hump, changing shape of tip or bridge, narrowing span of nostrils, or changing angle between nose and upper lip.

If nose surgery is performed to relieve breathing problems, it may be covered by insurance.

Rhinoplasty is usually outpatient.


Restylane®
Restylane ® is a transparent hyaluronic acid gel that is injected into facial tissue to smooth wrinkles and folds, especially around the nose and mouth (nasolabial folds). Hyaluronic acid is a protective, lubricating and binding gel substance that is produced naturally by the body.
See our special page:
Restylane ®


Transumbilical Breast Augmentation - T.U.B.A.
Transumbilical breast augmentation, or T.U.B.A. as the method is commonly called, is a method of breast enhancements wherein the implants are inserted through the patient"s belly button under the skin to the chest.

Transumbilical breast augmentation leaves no scar. The plastic surgeon must be specially trained, and uses specific tools and an endoscope, which is a surgical instrument with a tiny camera and light which enables the surgeon to see under the patient's skin.

Usually done on an out-patient basis, the cosmetic surgery procedures leaves no discernable scarring. A thin surgical instrument is inserted into the naval up through the breast area under the skin. Tissue expansion is done in the breast before the breast implant is inserted and then filled. The advantages of this surgery are reported to be a more natural look along with less time spend in surgery, less anesthesia, less down time, and, of course, no visible scarring.

For more information, please consult with your surgeon.
Visit
FDA.GOV for the most up-to-date information on cosmetic surgery treatments!


Aesthetic Procedures & Treatments
Facial & Neck Surgery - Breast Surgery - Body Contouring - Breast Enhancement - Laser Treatments - Skin Care - Facial Rejuvenation
  • Face & Neck
    • Facelift
    • Necklift
    • Eyelid
    • Nose Reshaping
    • Revisional Nose Surgery
    • Lip Enhancement
    • Chin Augmentation
    • Ear Tuck/Pinning
  • Skin
    • Cosmetic Consultation
    • Skin Care Consultation
    • Chemical Peels
    • Microdermabrasion
    • Skin Care Products
    • Permanent Make-up
    • Para Medical Techniques
    • Waxing Services
  • Body Contouring
    • Liposuction
    • Liposuction Revision
    • Tummy Tuck
    • Male Breast Reduction
    • Contouring after Massive Weight Loss
  • Breast Surgery
    • Breast Augmentation
    • Breast Lift - Mastopexy
    • Breast Reduction
      Female & Male
    • Breast Reconstruction
  • Laser
    • Microlaser Peel
    • ThermAge® Laser
    • Photorejuvenation
    • Laser Hair Removal
    • Laser Tattoo Removal

  • Laser (cont'd)
    • Leg Veins
    • Port Wine Stain
    • Birthmarks
    • Hemaglomas

ABOUT THIS PAGE
You have reached the Cosmetic Surgery Procedures Page of:
BoardCertifiedPlasticSurgeon.com
This page explains selected, popular cosmetic surgery procedures in non-professional terms.
We are non-medical professionals who want to help visitors make safe choices about cosmetic surgery.
We do this by offering a wide variety or resources and links.
We never recommend medical professionals, procedures, treatments, etc.
Please read About Us to learn more.

ABPS:
When we say "board-certified", we mean board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) or the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC).
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Main Menu (see Check U.S. Doctors' Credentials)

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Most Popular Procedures - 2011

Cosmetic Surgical:
Breast Augmentation ~ Nose Reshaping ~ Liposuction ~ Eyelid Surgery ~ Facelifts
Minimally Invasive:
Botulinum Toxin Type A ~ Soft tissue fillers ~ Chemical peel ~ Laser Hair Removal ~ Microdermabrasion
Reconstructive Plastic Surgery:
Tumor removal ~ Laceration repair ~ Maxillofacial Surgery ~ Scar Revision
Non-Invasive:
Facial Yoga Exercises - Video
Average Surgeons' Fee

Financing / Insurance


Skin Care & Beauty Products

Procedures List ~ Before & After Photos from PlasticSurgery.org*
*We are NOT associated with the ABPS or plasticsurgery.org.
The link to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons' website is a courtesy only.

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