MY 2 CENTS WORTH
September 28th, 2009
The results of a surgeon are often greatly influenced by the thoroughness of medical training and experience level of the particular physician. Breast enlargement outcomes are similarly determined by the expertise of the surgeon and the number of times he or she has performed the operation. Of course, some surgeons favor certain techniques, while others prefer other techniques, which are usually developed over time. At this point in my career, having been in private practice for over 20 years, I have performed over 4000 augmentation mammoplasties or breast enlargements. Based on this extensive experience, I was appointed to LEAD, the physician adviser group for the Mentor Corporation, one of the largest implant manufacturers. This group of physicians from all over the US convened this past weekend for a symposium in Denver, Colorado.
The purpose of the meeting was to exchange ideas, share new surgical technologies and to provide Mentor with feedback on new product research. I am always invigorated by scientific conferences with my colleagues and look forward to these meetings. It is my honor to have the opportunity to perhaps shape the future of cosmetic surgery advancements.
Too Much Good Stuff – Body Dysmorphic Disorder
September 23rd, 2009
Cosmetic surgery addiction or habituation does occur more frequently than one would expect. At least it appears that way in the media. Websites are full of individuals who have chosen too much plastic surgery. Also featured are people that have chosen procedures which have left them with an unnatural physical appearance, either by design or because of a poor result. I think these situations are related.
The first person who comes to mind is the late Michael Jackson. Throughout his life he underwent a metamorphosis each year toward a more bizarre facial appearance. By examining successive photos, it is impossible to figure out precisely what he had done. Obviously he had multiple nose surgeries. He has also had a variety of facial skin tightening/whitening procedures along with a myriad of facial implants and injections. I really think he suffered the full expression of “body dysmorphic syndrome.” “Body dysmorphic disorder is a mental illness also known as imagined ugliness. It’s just that – a person sees physical flaws that either too slight or nonexistent for anyone else to notice…” The term imagined ugliness perfectly describes this condition. Michael Jackson imagined himself ugly and most likely sought out cosmetic surgeries and treatments in an effort to alleviate his mental anguish. As it has been reported, he also sought some type of escape by abusing numerous prescription drugs. In a way he traded his probable psychiatric diagnosis (socially unacceptable) for a surgical procedures (socially acceptable). Arguably the cosmetic surgery procedures provided him with the publicity he craved and attention he needed on a continued and ongoing basis.
It is unfortunate that he surrounded himself with an entourage that did very little in his best interest, except to simply enable his unhealthy choices and line their own pockets.
Tomorrow I will discuss Jocelyn Wildenstein, known as the “Cat Woman” of New York because of her peculiar desire to look like a cat.
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