Texas Surgeon Discusses Rising Tummy Tuck Popularity

Posted on February 21, 2012 by Alex

body contouring after major weight loss, tummy tuck surgery, abdominoplasty, body lift surgeryPlastic surgery has grown in popularity throughout the United States and other Western countries over the last few years. One of the big winners in recently released statistics is abdominoplasty, more widely known as tummy tuck. A recent report from the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) indicates a significant increase in that country’s demand for abdominoplasty: 15 percent among men and 7 percent among women.

Dr. Rocco Piazza, a plastic surgeon from Austin, Texas, recently reflected on the growing popularity of tummy tucks for an article on EIN News. He says that this trend isn’t limited to the British Isles. “More people are taking advantage of advancements in surgical procedures, both in the United States and in Europe… As technology improves, we’re seeing shorter recovery times and longer-lasting results.”

Recent Tummy Tuck Innovations

  • reduced trauma on the tissues
  • less downtime with more precise procedures
  • longer-lasting results
  • combined approaches for optimal results

Abdominoplasty can be combined with other body contouring surgeries such as liposuction, which removes unwanted fatty deposits and further improves the contours of the body. It is often performed after major weight loss, pregnancy, or other significant body changes that can result in loose skin. The effects of gravity and aging can also often have an effect on abdominal skin.

Like many surgeons, Dr. Piazza usually offers individualized body contouring surgeries instead of a “one size fits all” approach:

“Depending on the person’s body type and cosmetic goals, I perform varying amounts of contouring. While sculpting the abdominal skin flap, I make sure to provide the perfect degree of shaping to complement the person’s body… There are countless ways to personalize the procedure to match a person’s exact body type.”

When considering abdominoplasty, it’s important to check your surgeon’s qualifications. The best results for tummy tucks and similar surgeries can be achieved with a board-certified plastic surgeon who has significant experience with body contouring surgery.

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Check Your Doctor’s Board Certifications

Posted on February 11, 2012 by Alex

board-certified plastic surgeons, ASPS, non-specialists, botched surgeriesCosmetic procedures are a lucrative industry nowadays, and many doctors are cashing in. However, according to New York Times writer Kate Murphy, many of these doctors lack specialized qualifications in plastic surgery. As a result of this rise in non-specialist practices and services, many plastic surgeons are seeing an increase in botched cosmetic procedures. Since there are no laws in the US that forbid doctors from practicing outside their specialities, ENT doctors, gynecologists, and general practitioners have begun marketing cosmetic procedures such as breast augmentation and liposuction.

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons has reported that more patients are seeking revisionary surgeries in order to reverse botched cosmetic procedures. According to ASPS president Dr. Malcolm Z. Roth, “the public needs to be protected from doctors who are not upfront about what board certifications they have.” The fact that a doctor is board-certified in gynecology or general practice doesn’t necessarily mean that they are qualified to offer the best cosmetic results.

One of the unfortunate victims of this trend, a woman named Joan, received a facelift and tummy tuck from a doctor in Beverly Hills. She later discovered that he was board-certified in otolaryngology, but it was too late, as she had received thick scars on her temples and a wavy abdomen. “I had to use all my savings to get a real plastic surgeon to fix what he did to me,” Joan told the Times. “I have an M.B.A. I’m not stupid. But when the doctor has a nice clinic and all those diplomas and certifications on the wall, you think he knows what he’s doing.”

Under current US law, only Texas, California, Louisiana, and Florida require that doctors specify which board certifications they have in their advertising. In the other 46 states, they can advertise that they are “board-certified” without indicating which board has recognized them. Doctors practicing cosmetic procedures beyond their specialty have no oversight authority and aren’t required to report complications.

Patients should be sure to look for surgeons who are fully licensed and members of ASPS. Board-certified plastic surgeons have specialized in plastic surgery and are subject to stringent rules and oversight.

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New Option for Breast Reconstruction After Radiation Therapy

Posted on February 4, 2012 by Alex

Breast cancer patients who have undergone radiation therapy often find their reconstruction options limited after receiving mastectomies. Fortunately, however, a new technique that consists of fat injection followed by implant placement may provide a new alternative to traditional breast reconstruction surgery, according to a new study in the latest issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.

The difficulties of post-radiation breast reconstruction

Radiation therapy can reduce the risk of recurrent breast cancer and increase the patient’s chances for survival. As a result, radiation treatments after breast cancer are likely to become more widely used in the coming years. Unfortunately, however, radiation can have toxic effects on tissues and reduce the body’s ability to heal. Breast reconstruction for these patients has only been possible through autologous procedures that require an additional surgery to obtain graft tissue from the abdomen.

Combining fat grafts and a breast implant

The new study found that the patient’s own fat, which is extracted via liposuction and grafted onto the site of the mastectomy, can create a bed of healthy tissue. After the area becomes free of signs of radiation toxicity, it can be used as the site for reconstruction surgery, including a breast implant. This technique was used in 16 patients over a three-year period, with reconstruction beginning at least 3–6 months after the end of radiation therapy. All patients received two or three fat grafts.

Results show great promise

The final appearance of the reconstructed breasts was rated excellent to good by 15 out of the 16 patients, and overall satisfaction ranged from high to very high. Follow-ups revealed no complications and good healing of the breast tissues surrounding the implant. The researchers caution that these results are limited, due to the small number of patients, and call for larger studies with longer follow-ups to confirm the findings.

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Nose Jobs Create a Younger Appearance

Posted on January 27, 2012 by Alex

Rhinoplasty can help patients in a number of ways. Besides improving the nose’s appearance, the procedure can correct functional issues, such as a deviated septum or asymmetry. According to a new study in the latest issue of the Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery, there may be another addition to that list: a more youthful appearance. Researchers have found that rhinoplasty can make patients appear 1.5 years younger on average.

The study involved 50 people who were asked to look at photographs of 53 rhinoplasty patients before and one year after the procedure. The observers were asked to estimate the ages of the patients, who ranged from 15 to 61. On average, patients who received rhinoplasty looked 1.5 years younger, with the effect more pronounced among older patients. As a result, the researchers argue, “the rejuvenating effect of rhinoplasty can now objectively be listed as one of the benefits of undergoing this procedure.”

However, at least one plastic surgeon believes that the age-reversing effects of rhinoplasty may be more psychological than anything else. Dr. Michael Olding, chief of plastic surgery at George Washington University School of Medicine, says that patients emerge from the procedure in improved spirits. Smiles and happier expressions can take years away from the face when compared to sadness, depression, or anxiety.

Whether it’s from the physical changes to the nose or the psychological boost that comes from an improved appearance, it seems that rhinoplasty can make patients appear more youthful. While these results aren’t as dramatic as a facelift or neck lift, this is something else for potential rhinoplasty patients to consider. The effects seemed to be the most dramatic for patients with significant humps on the bridges on their noses, as well as patients with a greater degree of nasal tip rotation.

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Cosmetic Tourists Risk Strain, Infection, Malpractice

Posted on January 18, 2012 by Alex

Plastic surgery overseas has become an increasingly popular option in recent years, with affordable flights, low-cost procedures, and the unique sights of foreign countries. Unfortunately, however, dangers lurk beneath the attractive surface of cheap surgeries, as many have learned to their peril. The rise of cosmetic tourism has been accompanied by increased complications and botched surgeries.

It’s become a big problem in Australia, where tourists are easily able to reach developing countries such as India, Malaysia, and Thailand for cheap plastic surgeries such as breast augmentation, facelifts, and liposuction. According to the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons, complications arising from botched overseas cosmetic procedures have risen 38 percent in the last 12 months. More Australian cosmetic tourists are seeking post-operative medical assistance than ever before.

The Perils of Cosmetic Tourism

Foreign diseases. Traveling overseas can leave you susceptible to local strains of common diseases to which you may have little or no immunity. That’s why travelers usually receive vaccinations before traveling abroad. In your weakened state after undergoing surgery, you may be risking your life!

Lack of credentials. The cheapness of cosmetic procedures overseas is often partially the result of low regulatory standards in those countries. Can you be sure that your elective procedure is being performed by a fully qualified individual?

Travel strain. Airline travel, jet lag, running from gate to gate, from airport to hotel, navigating unfamiliar streets. Travelling abroad can be exhilarating but stressful! It’s important to be relaxed and comfortable before receiving plastic surgery.

Lack of post-operative care. “Cosmetic surgery packages sold as holidays downplay the importance of the post-operative period,” says Rodney Cooter, president of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons. “Any kind of major surgery, cosmetic or otherwise, requires a high level of post-operative care. That means rest and healing time to reduce the risk of complications.” Many foreign clinics don’t offer that level of care.

The Results of Botched Overseas Surgeries

  • 72% of botched overseas surgeries could not be corrected.
  • 62% suffered permanent disfigurements.
  • Nearly 50% could have experienced life-threatening complications.
  • The average cost to attempt surgical repairs was nearly US$6000.
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Facial Disfigurement Can Cause Depression, Anxiety

Posted on January 11, 2012 by Alex

Adults born with severe facial disfigurements are generally psychologically healthy, according to a new study by Dutch researchers. However, people living with facial disfigurement are more likely to experience depression and anxiety.

Published in the January issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, the study examined three groups:

  • 59 adults born with facial disfigurements caused by facial cleft syndromes
  • 59 adults who received facial disfigurements from traumatic injuries
  • 120 adults with no facial disfigurement

What Did the Study Find?

People born with facial disfigurement had relatively normal psychological functioning. However, the group also experienced a higher rate of problems such as anxiety and depression than the group with no disfigurements. Some experienced low self-esteem and were concerned about how others judged their appearance. Being born with a facial disfigurement resulted in less physical problems than receiving it through an injury.

However, no group had a higher rate of clinical depression or anxiety. This suggests that although facial disfigurement can be a source of stress, sadness, or anxiety, it does not lead to medical depression or anxiety. This is important for plastic and reconstructive surgeons to consider, since knowing that patients with facial disfigurements are no more likely than the general population to experience mental ill health can help a surgeon to understand his/her patient’s needs and expectations.

The authors of the study, Dr. Sarah Versnel and her colleagues, concluded that “improving satisfaction with facial appearance (by surgery), enhancing self-esteem or lowering fear of negative appearance evaluation (by psychological support) may enhance long-term psychological functioning.” The field of reconstructive surgery continues to develop a deeper understanding of new techniques, novel procedures, and its most vulnerable clients.

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Allergan and ASPS: American Breast Implants Safe

Posted on January 6, 2012 by Alex

are breast implants safe, French breast implants, medical silicone implants, breast augmentation safetyWhile Europe’s plastic surgery industry reels with the recall of breast implant devices manufactured by Poly Implant Prosthese (PIP) in France, industry groups in the U.S. are reassuring Americans that they have nothing to fear.

What Happened?

In December, French authorities issued a recall of PIP-produced implants after it was revealed that PIP had released implants filled with industrial silicone rather than medical-grade fillers. The industrial silicone, which is usually employed in the manufacturing of computer parts and electronics, has not been found to possess carcinogenic or toxic properties by British healthcare authorities. They are, however, more likely to rupture.

What are Governments and Doctors Saying?

Nonetheless, France still faces the specter of more than 30,000 women who have been called upon to have their breast implants removed. Many thousands more will likely face removals, as PIP exported to numerous countries, including the United Kingdom, Spain, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Colombia and Venezuela.

The U.K. has advised against removal, since it has not found evidence of increased rupture rates outside France, and ruptures typically result only in scar tissue, inflammation, and irritation. However, this position has not found universal agreement within the country, as British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons president Tim Goodacre has argued in favor of universal removal in light of continued uncertainty. Venezuela has offered to furnish the cost of removal, but not replacements, while other countries struggle to decide a course of action.

Should Americans Be Worried?

Fortunately for American patients, PIP silicone gel-filled implants were never approved for use in the U.S., although women who received implants outside the country could have received defective implants. A press release from Allergan indicates that the pharmaceutical giant uses only medical silicone, and its breast implant product lines remain above board.

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Laser Surgery for Skin Cancer Proves Successful in Study

Posted on November 28, 2011 by Staff Writer

laser surgery for skin cancerLaser surgery for skin cancer was shown to be effective in treating precancerous lesions, according to the Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery.

In cases where radiation therapy or excision surgery are not possible, your plastic surgeon may be able to employ the use of a carbon dioxide laser to treat the growth. This type of laser surgery for skin cancer is best used to treat growths on the head and neck that have yet to transform into melanomas, one of the most deadly forms of skin cancer.

To test the effectiveness of laser surgery for skin cancer, researchers compared it to other treatment techniques like radiation therapy and surgical removal. The researchers compared surgery treatment cases over the course of about 20 years. Radiation therapy was the most commonly used technique and laser surgery for skin cancer, the least common with just 15 of 73 patients undergoing that option.

The recurrence rate of cancers treated with surgery and the carbon dioxide laser were relatively low, at 4.2 and 6.7% respectively. Patients who underwent radiation treatments saw the greatest recurrence at 29%.

Though many plastic surgeons may choose excision surgery when given the opportunity, given its lower recurrence rate in the study, it is not always possible. In areas where a surgical scar may be more visible, like areas around the neck and face, laser surgery for skin cancer may be advantageous.

Despite any cosmetic benefits of using laser surgery for skin cancer, it is important to follow the advice of your plastic surgeon when it comes to treatment.

To learn more about treatment for skin cancer, email Pasco County plastic surgeon Dr. Albear.

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New Technology for Detecting Melanoma

Posted on November 18, 2011 by Staff Writer

detecting melanomaA new device for detecting melanoma may help your plastic surgeon treat your skin cancer, according to WebMD.

The device, called MelaFind, helps doctors in detecting melanoma and judging whether a biopsy may be necessary. The MelaFind works by scanning the surface of the skin and analyzing skin lesions it finds. Early findings for the MelaFind have been successful—the device only missed 2% of melanomas.

Melanoma is one of the most deadly forms of cancer. It grows quickly, but may be treated if found early enough. Doctors who use MelaFind can use the device conjunction with their own training to diagnose patients.

One of the benefits of the device is that when it is successful in detecting melanoma, it can help doctors to discern whether a biopsy is necessary. In the cases where melanomas are not found, patients can avoid unnecessary biopsies.

However, the device was found to have a high false positive rate. But after further examining the lesions, it was found that 90% of the time the lesions were not cancerous.

Despite this fact, the FDA found that the positives of the device in detecting melanomas outweighed the chance for unnecessary biopsies.

Though the MelaFind cannot replace a dermatologist’s trained eye when it comes to detecting melanoma, the makers find that it is a helpful tool for dermatologists.

To find out more about treatment for skin cancer in Tampa, please email plastic surgeon Dr. Abear.

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VIDEO: “Biggest Loser” Gains New Body After Plastic Surgery

Posted on November 14, 2011 by Staff Writer

Dramatic weight loss can often necessitate body contouring to slim the body and remove excess skin, according to KXAN.

In an interview with KXAN, plastic surgeon Dr. Jennifer Walden discussed body slimming procedures she performed on a noted Biggest Loser contestant who lost 129 lbs. on the reality weight loss show.

After losing the weight, Olivia Ward struggled with the excess skin many weight loss patients deal with. Dr. Walden described how many patients may look “deflated” or feel like a “sack of skin.” It can be difficult to fit into certain types of clothing, like lingerie and health issues can also come up. These conditions can include rashes that form in skin folds.

Due to these concerns, Dr. Walden stresses that body contouring for patients who have lost a dramatic amount of weight is not a vanity surgery—she would classify it as reconstructive.

To remedy Olivia’s redundant skin, Dr. Walden says she performed a tummy tuck and breast lift. In both of these surgeries, the excess skin is separated from the tissues and removed. The plastic surgeon may also use liposuction to remove small, stubborn pockets of fat. The remaining skin is then tightened to ensure a more taut-looking appearance. In the case of a tummy tuck and breast lift, the bellybutton and nipple areola may need to be moved to a higher position, respectively.

Though later pregnancy can affect the look of the body, those who have undergone previous body contouring after major weight loss will only require a smaller procedure post-baby, if they desire.

To learn more about body contouring in Tampa and Pasco County, please email plastic surgeon Dr. Albear.

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