Eyelid Nipntuck
June 21st, 2010
I frequently hear that nipntuck procedures for the eyes, called blepharoplasty are the best bang for the buck to freshen the appearance of the face. It is actually one of the surgeries that is popular with male patients, as well. It is a common belief that by removing eye bags, cosmetic surgery can restore a rested and more youthful appearance. I agree. Keen competition in the business world drives more executives to maintain this vibrant and healthy look. Repairing droopy eyelids for both men and women has an overall positive impact on patients’ quality of life.
The procedure involves the upper eyelids, lower eyelids or both. It is a common misconception that liposuction is used for eyelid surgery. Upper eyelids require removal of skin and a small amount of fat. Lower eyelids have fat repositioning, followed by re-draping the skin and muscle. Only a very small amount of skin is removed from lower eyelids. Patients usually have minimal bruising and may return to work in as little as a few days. Makeup easily covers slight bruising during recovery, however it needs to be applied with a light touch.
I have a conservative approach to eye surgery and avoid the more severe “almond eye” look that seems to be popular in Hollywood. My patients simply look more rested, like they’ve just come back from vacation. Here in Minnesota, mid-summer is a likely time for that “cosmetic surgery vacation.” I usually see a slight uptick in requests for facial rejuvenation surgery, particularly eyelid surgery and facelifts.
Lipo as weight loss? Part 3
June 16th, 2010
Earlier in my career, I had the unique opportunity to be interviewed on television by Roseanne Barr and Tom Arnold about liposuction, which I discussed earlier this week. This series continues.
Lipo as weight loss? Part 3
Why isn’t Lipo a quick fix? I have found that cosmetic surgery results are far better when the fat layer located beneath the skin is as thin as possible before surgery. In the case of skin tightening procedures, the skin can be stretched more easily to give a better result. I also believe that wound healing is more efficient, there are fewer complications and patients see the best results when they are at a healthy weight.
Patients presenting for cosmetic surgery consultation who are carrying extra pounds frequently change their minds regarding which procedures they are pursuing after reaching their ideal weight. This is most evident with breast surgery. A woman considering breast reduction before weight loss will frequently choose breast enlargement after significant weight loss. Patients considering liposuction after weight loss usually only need a slight reduction of stubborn remaining localized fat pockets, such as the outer thighs. Skin appearance often responds better when weight loss is gradual and exercise is part of the program.
I know the idea of having surgery first, followed by weight loss and conditioning has been popularized on reality TV. It has never made sense to me. Why take this shortcut if there are increased risks, potential medical problems and compromised cosmetic results? Please consider being within 20 pounds of your ideal weight before considering cosmetic surgery. It is the best advice that I can offer my patients.
Remember: A moment on the lips, perhaps a lifetime on the hips!
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