Weight-Loss Surgery Unbalanced Among Men and Women

Evaluation of research data on patients who underwent bariatric surgery over a twelve year period identified a number of factors that explain why significantly more women than men have weight loss surgery.

Investigators at the University of California, San Diego examined data on more than 190,000 patients who had weight loss procedures between 1998 and 2010 and the findings were reported this week in the Journal of Laparoendoscopic & Advanced Surgical Techniques. Investigators concluded that eighty percent of the patients were women.

The study concluded that women tend to have a greater overall recognition of the risks of obesity and are less satisfied with the status of their health as compared to men. Men tend to delay surgery until they get older and it was statistically reported that the gender gap for weight-loss procedures actually narrows as men enter their 70’s.

Although an even division in obesity rates exists among US men and women, the results of this study suggest a need for increased awareness of the health risks and complications of obesity in men.

Minimally Invasive Procedures with Subtle Results

For those seeking improvement of their skin with natural looking results, there are several minimally invasive options. The use of fillers and peels can rejuvenate the appearance of the face and, if further improvement is desired, surgical procedures can be performed.

Botox and Dysport

Mechanism: 
Injections of the toxin weaken the muscle by blocking muscular nerve signals. Since the muscle can no longer contract, facial wrinkles are diminished. 

Purpose:
Helps with smoothing of wrinkles specifically, 
Frown lines between the eyes
Forehead lines
Crow’s feet and skin bands on the neck

Soft Tissue Fillers

Mechanism: 
A naturally derived or synthetic material is injected into the face
Add volume to areas of the face that have lost subcutaneous fat through aging, heredity, sun exposure and lifestyle. 

Purpose:
Helps restore volume and fullness in the face
Softens facial lines and plumps thin lips
Used to fill shallow contours, soften wrinkles and facial creases
Augments facial rejuvenation surgery, often used in combination with Botox or Dysport

Chemical Peel

Mechanism:
A chemical solution is applied to the face (and hands and neck) to remove damaged outer layers of skin caused by sun exposure, acne or aging. Newer, healthier skin cells are exposed. 

Purpose:
To peel away or diminish blemishes or other imperfections
Enhance skin tone and texture, helps erase scars
Lessens acne and acne scars and irregular skin pigmentation
Improve age spots and liver spots, rough and scaly skin
Diminishes freckles and fine lines and wrinkles 

Laser Hair Removal

Mechanism:
A highly concentrated beam of light is used to penetrate hair follicles
The light is absorbed by the pigment which damages the actively growing hair follicle

Purpose:
Future hair growth is slowed but may not be permanently removed
Several treatments may be needed to provide desired hair reduction
Periodic maintenance may be needed
Effective for most parts of the body

Microdermabrasion

Mechanism:
Skin is gently sanded with a minimally abrasive instrument
The thicker, uneven outer layer is removed

Purpose:
To treat light acne scarring and reduce or eliminate enlarge pores
Lessens the appearance of stretch marks
Reduce fine lines and wrinkles
Exfoliates the skin for a refreshed appearance
Improve age spots and diminish hyperpigmentation and discoloration from sun damage

Millions of minimally invasive procedures are performed annually with excellent results. Be sure to discuss your expectations with a certified plastic surgeon, cosmetic surgeon or dermatologist to determine your best options.

A Drug to Stop Wrinkles and Aging Skin Shows Promise

Following the administration of a drug to block the activity of Granzyme B, researchers discovered that, despite sun exposure, genetically engineered mice retained youthful looking skin as compared to the aged skin on normal mice. Scientists at the University of British Columbia are investigating the potential for a cosmetic product that will prevent normal, gradual aging of the skin due to UV light exposure.

Elevated levels of Granzyme B, a serine protease, have been implicated in several autoimmune and skin diseases.  The role of Granzyme B in atherosclerosis and heart attacks was under investigation by a team of researchers at the University of British Columbia. They were interested in determining if blood vessels of mice lacking Granzyme B were more resistant to hardening and narrowing of the arteries than normal mice. By blocking the activity of Granzyme B in certain places, the researchers were surprised to find that aging and deterioration could be prevented in tissues that depend on collagen, such as skin and blood vessels.

Based on this technology, a Granzyme-B inhibitor is currently being developed by viDA Therapeutics, a research based biotechnology company. Within two years, the company hopes to test a topically applied drug on people with discoid lupus erythematosus, an autoimmune disease that leads to facial scarring when skin is exposed to sunlight.

If the drug is effective, not only will there be potential for new cosmetic products, but also help for life-threatening conditions such as aneurysms, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and diseases caused by the breakdown of collagen and other proteins.

Enhanced Surfaces of Breast Implants May Reduce Post-Surgical Complications

Almost 400,000 breast augmentations and reconstructions are performed annually in the US and the number is increasing each year. Following surgery, about one in five women suffer from a complication known as capsular contracture. Scientists at a large research university in the UK have created an enhanced patterned surface for silicone implants to reduce the rate of complications.

Following breast implant surgery, the body reacts by forming a protective lining of scar tissue in the form of a capsule around the implant. In some cases, an excess amount of scar tissue is formed which results in the shrinkage of the capsule and a squeezing or hardening of the breast caused by the interaction of the capsule with the implant. This complication is referred to as a capsular contracture. While the cause is unknown, many surgeons use a 'No Touch’ implant insertion technique to reduce the likelihood of a complication. In its early stages, capsular contracture is commonly treated with vitamin E, certain drugs or massage, however in many cases, surgery to release or remove the capsule is necessary.

Textured, or roughened implant surfaces have previously been shown to reduce the amount of scar tissue formed around breast implants and currently, implants on the market have smooth or larger textured surfaces. Scientists at the University of Manchester have created smaller textured areas on the surface of implants and their findings indicate that these surfaces imitate the body’s own cell surfaces. It is also suggested that the smaller areas of texture create a more suitable micro environment for adherence and growth of breast tissue cells and, as a result, the likelihood of complications following breast implant surgery is reduced. More lab studies will need to be conducted prior to the clinical use of these enhanced patterned surfaces.

For further information on the findings: University of Manchester. “Breast implants could be safer thanks to cell-friendly surface.” Medical News Today. MediLexicon, Intl., 22 Mar. 2015.Web.

Use of Google Glass in Plastic Surgical Procedures

Introduced on a limited basis in 2013, Google Glass is a hands-free, computerized type of eyewear that has the potential for use in plastic surgery as well as in other healthcare fields. Surgical procedures performed using the Glass can be seen live or recorded which will provide surgeons with a wide range of possible uses and applications.

Google Glass eyewear provides the wearer with the ability to control the device using voice commands, touch or a change in head position. The live streaming option gives surgeons the capacity to augment training, join in remote consultations and virtually assist during actual procedures. Recorded procedures can enable surgeons to self-evaluate, share videos and provide surgical training. As reported in the March 2015 issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ASPS), additional uses may include providing quick access to medical documentation such as patient records and imaging studies. The hands-free nature of Google Glass may also help reduce the spread of infection.

As upgrades and options continue to be developed, there will be additional purposes, applications and challenges with the use of Google Glass.

High Satisfaction Rates from Autologous Breast Reconstruction

Following mastectomy, women report higher satisfaction from breast reconstruction using their own tissues, rather than from the use of implants.  While both methods provided good outcomes, a new study indicates that patients with autologous reconstruction were more satisfied with the results and with their quality of life after reconstruction surgery.

According to a study published in a recent issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, ninety-two women completed a BREAST-Q survey following breast reconstruction between 2006 and 2010.  Approximately half of the women in the study had autologous breast reconstruction that was performed using “donor” flaps from their abdomen to create their new breasts and the other half received implant-based reconstruction. On a 100-point scale, the satisfaction scores for overall results were about ten to twelve points higher for autologous reconstruction than for implant reconstruction. There were no significant differences between the two methods in terms of scores for quality of life.

It is important to note several differences between the two groups. Women who chose autologous reconstruction were generally older, were more likely to have undergone radiation therapy and had received delayed reconstruction surgery. Implant reconstruction was typically performed on younger women who had a double mastectomy with reconstruction immediately following surgery.

Women have many options for breast reconstruction and a single ideal reconstruction method is not appropriate for all patients. The researchers concluded that patient characteristics between the two groups accounted for the preliminary results and that further studies are needed to evaluate the reasons for the differences in overall satisfaction rates. 

Injectable Drug Dissolves Double Chin

If you are bothered by moderate to severe excess fat under your chin or neck, your treatment options have previously been limited to a neck lift, liposuction or jawlift surgery. There is now a new, FDA approved, less-invasive, cost-effective injectable treatment option from Kythera Biopharmaceuticals. 

Over the last eight years, Kythera has been developing an injectable drug to contour submental fullness as it is estimated that about seven of ten people are concerned about their double chin. The patented formulation called ATX-101 is a pure, non-animal derived version of deoxycholic acid, a molecule that occurs naturally in the body and aids in the rupture and breakdown of dietary fat. Through a process of adipocytolysis and preferential targeting of cells with low protein content, the drug was reported to have relatively no effect on the surrounding blood vessels, nerves and muscles. Patients in the drug study received a series of treatments at intervals of one month apart and high rates of satisfaction were reported. Side effects included redness, bruising, itching, pain in the chin, nodules, numbness and burning sensations. Best results were seen on patients without advanced skin laxity.  

For people who long for a newly defined chin and jawline, it is anticipated that this new treatment option will be commercially available in 2015.  

Cosmetic Acupuncture

Cosmetic acupuncture, or facial rejuvenation acupuncture is a safe, natural and virtually painless, non-surgical method to increase the production of facial collagen and elastin to reduce fine facial lines and wrinkles while rebalancing the flow of energy in the body.

There are minimal (to no) negative side effects from cosmetic acupuncture. The treatments are relaxing and provide an overall rejuvenation and positive feeling in the body. The insertion of thin, fine needles along specific pathways in the body creates a number of positive physiological and visual facial effects, including:

Physiological effects:
Increased blood circulation
Improved muscle tone
Collagen and elastin production

Visual benefits:
Reduction of puffy under-eye bags
Elimination of fine lines
Lifting of eyelids
Firming of jowls
Softening of deep wrinkles
Pore tightening
Tightening of the neck
Balancing oily and dry skin
Improved skin tone and complexion

Cosmetic acupuncture, also known as an acupuncture face lift,  is typically done over a course of 10 treatments with monthly or seasonal maintenance visits. Each treatment lasts about an hour. Depending on the needs of the patient, needles are placed on the face as well as in strategic locations in the body. Needles remain in place for 15 to 20 minutes. Results are visible over several weeks and are enhanced by good eating habits, hydration and regular sleep. Although cosmetic acupuncture has been reported to be beneficial to women and men ages 20 to 70, it is recommended that treatments begin at about age 35 to achieve the best results. As with any procedure, be sure that the practitioner is a board certified acupuncturist.

Since the study of acupuncture views each part of the body as a whole, the whole body is enhanced and rejuvenated as a result of a cosmetic acupuncture treatment. Some of the benefits include a strengthened immune system, hormonal and stress rebalancing, relief from allergies, pain, headaches, insomnia and menopause symptoms and an overall rebalancing of the flow of energy.

Share your cosmetic acupuncture experiences!

Compression Garment Use after Thighplasty

Thigh Lift Plastic Surgery, or Thighplasty is a surgical procedure to improve the contour and shape of the inner thigh on people with loose or sagging thigh skin. Wearing post-surgical compression pants may help to hasten recovery due to the specialized features of the compression garment.

Typically performed on individuals who have loss a significant amount of weight or have concerns about loose skin due to the natural aging process, the thighplasty surgical procedure can greatly improve the appearance of the legs which may boost a person’s confidence and self-esteem.

Following thighplasty surgery, most surgeons recommend that their patients wear post op leg garments to aid in post-surgical recovery. These compression garments are designed specifically to support faster healing and recovery from thighplasty as wearing the garment may help to: 

• Remodel the soft tissue by closing the tunnels formed by the cannulas
• Flush fluids from the surgical areas and from the body
• Firmly hold the skin in place and maintain the improvement in contour
• Decrease post-operative pain by supporting the surgical areas
• Uniform compression and support helps improve blood circulation 

The market is filled with companies advertising the best compression garment. Ensure that the garment you choose has the following recommended features:

• Use of a lightweight, breathable and durable fabric for firm compression
• Double tummy panel and a wide waistband for comfort
• Reinforced open crotch for convenience
• Full-length zipper closure to make the garment easier to put on
• Full-length foam guard pads that cover the side zippers for comfort
• Full-length contact closures or hooks for adjustments in compression
• Lace strips along the bottom of the garment to prevent rollup 

For faster and safer recovery, discuss the wearing of a compression garment with your surgeon. Weight loss is a tremendous accomplishment and a thighplasty procedure can assist with your desire to live a healthier lifestyle and maintain a normal weight. Thighplasty can greatly improve the overall appearance of the thighs and legs and wearing a compression garment may enable you to show off your new appearance even sooner!

Are there any other features that you would like to see in a compression garment?

Treatment of Crow's Feet with No Needles!

The number of non-surgical cosmetic procedures continues to rise year after year. With procedures that require little or no downtime, the trend will undoubtedly continue to escalate. In recent years, injectable botulinum toxin type A treatments have become the single largest cosmetic procedure in the United States, and now, a new topical (needle-free!) botulinum gel named RT001 has been developed and is currently going through FDA trials.

Revance Therapeutics, a US biopharmaceutical company, has developed a patented peptide delivery system for the treatment of crow’s feet. This system is able to transport the large botulinum toxin A molecule in gel form through the skin and to the target site. The gel is left on the skin for twenty minutes, and according to one study, good results and no major side effects were reported by 89% of the patients.

The delivery system is also being developed to carry the botulinum toxin type A to the targeted muscle in an injectable form which will potentially provide longer lasting results and also reduce the unwanted spread of the toxin to other tissues. This technology may ultimately change the way botulinum toxin is delivered to the targeted areas, which will improve the patient's experience.

Once RT001 receives FDA approval, the gel will be available by prescription for use in a doctor’s office. Welcome news for those who are looking for a safe, more natural looking aesthetic result without needles!

Neubelle™ RF Provides Botox-Like Control of Forehead Lines

Through the use of radiofrequency (RF), doctors can temporarily relax the muscles that cause frown lines or forehead wrinkles without the use of injectable botulinum toxin A (Botox). Neubelle, the only bi-polar device approved by the FDA for temporary immobilization of facial nerves, causes a thermal injury to block the specific nerve controlling the muscle that produces wrinkles on the forehead. Results are immediate and downtime is minimal.

Commonly used in medical applications, bi-polar RF energy is a well-studied, safe, predictable and consistent source of producing heat in nerve tissue. Under local anesthesia, RF energy is used to isolate and contract the exact muscle that causes frown or forehead lines on the patient. A fine probe delivers a thermal (heat) injury about the size of a grain of rice to the nerve that controls this muscle. This injury acts as a roadblock which will not allow the nerve to contract the muscle, resulting in shallowing, or complete smoothing of frown lines. Muscle function will gradually return after eight months to two years.

Although Neubelle is currently more costly and was not developed to be a complete substitute for Botox injections, it is a viable solution for the patient for whom the botulinum toxin is no longer effective. Unlike injectable Botox that covers an area, Neubelle’s probe isolates a single nerve for a truly customizable treatment.

Share your comments below!

Motivations for Cosmetic Surgery

Every year, millions of people undergo cosmetic surgery. Many of the right reasons have been considered -- they are doing it for themselves, have high self-esteem, are in good health, recognize the risks and have reasonable expectations about the results of the procedure.

Studies have shown that body image, self-esteem, education and culture are among the predictable factors in the decision to have surgery.

Have you thought about what influences you? Are you motivated to:

• Look better for yourself

• Contour your body or remove excess skin after significant weight loss

• Return to pre-pregnancy shape after the birth of your last child

• Look younger for relationships or for work

• Correct asymmetry on a particular part of your body

• Have your clothes fit better

• Reduce or reconstruct a part of your body

• Change a feature you have always disliked

• Repair a broken nose or other body part 

• Reverse the signs of aging or age more gracefully

Knowing exactly what you want and having reasonable expectations about the result will help you reach the final decision about whether you will schedule the appointment right away, or give it more thought.

Share your motivation in a comment below ...and you will have a chance to win a free 
post-surgical compression bra! Be sure to include your email address in your profile.
This compression bra is also a great sleep bra!

A Guide to the Cosmetic Use of Facial Injectables

Facial injectables, also known as dermal fillers are an increasingly popular procedure due to their quick and natural looking results. Injectable dermal fillers are used to plump or add volume to an area and fill a line or crease.  Botox works by temporarily blocking nerve impulses that trigger muscle contractions which leads to the softening of wrinkles and modified expressions.

Since the majority of these products are technique-sensitive treatments, it is important to consult with a board-certified dermatologist, cosmetic surgeon or plastic surgeon.

A partial list of brand names and treatments: (several additional brands are available)

Smooth forehead lines and creases

Botox Cosmetic, Dysport, Juvederm, Restylane

Eliminate crow’s feet

Botox Cosmetic, Dysport

Lift cheeks

Juvederm, Sculptra 

Smooth naso-labial folds

Juvederm, Restylane, Sculptra

Smooth lip lines and plump lips

Botox Cosmetic, Dysport, Juvederm, Restylane

Reduce neck lines

Botox Cosmetic, Dysport, Sculptra

Soften the appearance of bony hands
Juvederm, Perlane, Restylane

Although reports indicate that side effects of facial injectables are low, there are risks involved. Potential side effects include redness, swelling and bruising at the injection site, raised bumps, abcesses, infections, skin discoloration and mild to severe allergic reactions. 

Injectable fillers can provide fast and positive changes to the face and neck. Depending on the type of temporary filler used and other factors, continued treatments will be needed to maintain the desired effects.   

Please share your experiences below!

Study Shows that Minimally Invasive Facial Cosmetic Procedures are Safe

Minimally invasive cosmetic treatments, such as fillers, neurotoxins (Botox) and laser device procedures have been performed worldwide on both men and women to decrease the visible signs of facial aging. The results of an extensive national study indicate that these procedures are generally safe and have essentially no risk of serious side effects.

A recent Northwestern Medicine® study led by Murad Alam, M.D., analyzed over 20,000 of procedures performed by 23 board-certified and experienced dermatologists at eight centers in the United States. As a Dermatology professor at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and a physician at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Dr. Alam studied the long-held perception that a few different minimally invasive facial cosmetic procedures are safer than one more invasive facial procedure. It was reported that these types of procedures are quite safe and have essentially no risk of serious adverse events. Minor side effects, such as redness, bruising and swelling generally occur in less than one percent of patients and disappear on their own.

This study is good news for people undergoing minimally invasive facial enhancements, especially those who may have been apprehensive about the risks or side effects of anti-aging facial procedures.

Do the results of this study help with your decision to consider facial procedures? 

Popularity of Buttock Augmentation & Non-Surgical Fat Reduction Procedures in 2014

The statistical data for the number and type of plastic surgical procedures performed in 2014 will be published by the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) next month. Early releases reveal that buttock augmentation procedures and non-surgical fat reduction procedures were trending higher in 2014, however liposuction and breast augmentation still remain ­­the most popular procedures.  

Buttock augmentation is a relatively new procedure that involves the reshaping, enlarging and enhancement of the buttocks and gluteal area. Many people view an uplifted, curvier and rounder butt profile as a symbol of femininity and sensuality. Fat grafting techniques, such as the Brazilian Butt Lift use the patient’s own fatty tissue, however buttock implants are also popular. The number of buttock augmentation procedures rose by an astonishing 86% in 2014.

Non-surgical fat reduction procedures were also quite popular last year. In-office procedures utilizing devices such as CoolSculpting and VASERshape freeze or melt body fat without surgery, however the results are not the same as results from surgery.  A total of more than 130,000 non-surgical fat reduction procedures were performed in the past year which is a 43% rise over the number of this type of procedure in 2013.

A combined total of over 10 million cosmetic surgical and non-surgical procedures were performed by board-certified surgeons in the United States in 2014. This number may increase in 2015 if the FDA approves the use of ATX-101, an injectable used to reduce small pockets of fat in the area under the chin (double chin/neck fat). Look for details in another blogpost as soon as more information is available.

Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedures

Technological advances in elective cosmetic surgery have resulted in safer procedures that are less invasive and have a faster recovery time than ever before. Non-surgical or minimally invasive treatments are available for people who do not need, have the time, or want to commit to a full cosmetic surgical procedure.

Dermal Fillers

Through the administration of injectable fillers on areas of the face, neck and hands, creases and folds are plumped or filled and volume and fullness is added.

Botox® Cosmetic

A prescription medicine that is injected into muscles resulting in the smoothing of frown creases and fine lines. Treatments can also help eliminate crow’s feet and prevent or soften wrinkles.

Cosmetic Acupuncture

Though the use of acupuncture needles over a series of treatments, the body’s healing energies are stimulated and circulation is improved resulting in a reduction of deeper lines, a lifting effect and an overall radiance. 

Minimally invasive facial procedures are generally temporary, however results can be maintained by regular treatments. Although these less invasive treatments cannot achieve the same results as surgical cosmetic procedures, they may help to delay the time before a surgical procedure is desired.


Do you have experience with any of these treatments? Share your thoughts!

How to Choose the Perfect Plastic Surgeon

When considering Plastic Surgery, choosing a surgeon is one of the most important decisions. There are several factors that you should consider before selecting the person who will perform your procedure.

Make Sure the Surgeon is Board-Certified

Verify that your potential surgeon is currently certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. While the U.S. government requires that plastic surgeons have certification, they don’t require that a surgeon be specifically trained in all of the procedures offered in the surgeon’s practice.  As an example, the title of cosmetic surgeon doesn’t automatically mean that they are properly trained in liposuction or nasal reconstructive surgery.  This may be due to the different skills required to master each area of cosmetic surgery. One key to finding someone with the most experience performing the procedure you intend to undergo, is to inquire how they were trained and how many times they have performed the specific procedure.

Check State Medical Records

Reviewing the medical license record of your surgeon could be the make or break decision in the selection process. Through your state’s medical board, you can verify the medical license and have access to any disciplinary actions against the surgeon.  Each state treats obtaining this information differently, meaning that acquiring these records could be as easy as going online or requesting the information by mail.

Ask To See Results of Other Surgeries

The result of your surgery will be one you will enjoy, or have to live with for a long while. To ensure that your aesthetic expectations are met, ask your potential surgeon to share testimonials as well as before and after photos of patients who have had similar surgical procedures.  This will give you a sense of what the outcome will most likely be after the procedure. Ask to talk to other patients as a point of reference to help you to get a firsthand perspective on any side effects and what the recovery process may be like. When this isn’t possible due to patient/doctor confidentiality or privacy, you may access online message boards for information.

Ask Questions

Be sure to ask every question you have about the surgery or procedure. Your surgeon’s ability, or inability to answer will be a great tool to assist you in making the selection of your surgeon. Here are a few questions that you may consider asking:

• Am I a good candidate for this procedure?  Are there options for other treatments?

• Who will assist in the procedure? What are their qualifications and training?

• What is involved in the procedure? How is it performed?

• What are the risks or complications of this procedure?

• Who will administer sedation?  What are their qualifications and training?

• How long will the procedure or surgery last? How long will sedation effects last?

• What are the emergency plans? To which hospital would I be taken?

• What is the recovery period? What kind of post-operative care is involved? 

• Will post-operative clothing or medicine be necessary?

• What is the realistic result of this procedure? 

In the end, it’s all about having the surgery done for yourself! Do your research and obtain opinions from several specialists so that you are not only knowledgeable about the procedure, but have also developed a strong trust and comfort level with your surgical team. 

What other things do you look for when selecting a plastic surgeon?  Leave some tips in the comments below!

Herbs and Supplements to Enhance Healing from Liposuction

Liposuction, also called lipoplasty or commonly known as “lipo”, is a type of surgery wherein excess body fats are suctioned or removed from different areas of a human body. The most common areas are the neck, back of the arms, buttocks, abdomen and thighs. It is proven to be the safest and most popular type of cosmetic surgery along with breast augmentation and abdominoplasty (tummy tuck surgery) and has been performed for decades.

When preparing for surgery, certain measures are recommended before and following the procedure to diminish the side effects. During the recovery process, one can expect common side effects that occur naturally as they are part of the healing process. These side effects may include:

• Bruising

• Numbness

• Swelling

• Soreness

• Inflammation

• Infection

• Discomfort

Why should a patient take herbs and supplements after surgery?

A person’s diet greatly affects the speed of the healing process and may influence the incidence and severity of certain side effects of surgery. The herbs and vitamins that may help you speed up the healing process are listed below.

Herbal Medicine

• Arnica Montana is an herbal medicine used to help diminish swelling and bruising after surgery. The homeopathic product is available as a pill (under tongue) or a cream that is applied on swollen areas.

• Bromelain is an enzyme found in pineapples.  Available in 250mg pills, it helps reduce swelling, pain and bruising post surgically. 

• Aloe Vera is succulent plant that is processed into a botanical supplement. It is used to help speed up the post-surgical healing of wounds.

• Quercetin is an herbal supplement that is used as an anti-inflammatory agent to help curb inflammation, a common side effect post-surgery.

Vitamins and Supplements

• Vitamin A is a natural healing supplement that helps in cell growth and in reproducing tissues to quicken the healing of the wound. It also helps to enhance the immune system which protects against infections.

• Vitamin B assists in preventing inflammation of the wound. It also helps increase the production of protein which helps to accelerate the healing process.

• Vitamin C is the most recommended supplement by physicians post surgically as it plays an important role in producing collagen, the product necessary for tissue reproduction. It is also recommended to take Vitamin C before surgery.

• Protein helps to boost the immune system which protects the body from infections.

• Zinc can help enhance the immune system, diminish the incidence of inflammation and protect the body from the growth of bacteria which can infect the wound.

Although most of these herbs and supplements can be found in food, it may be advisable to increase the intake of these products as recommended by your surgeon to augment and speed up the post-surgical healing process.

Non-Surgical Jaw Makeovers for Men can Create Superhero Features

Men are generally competitive beings and yes, like many women, men also compete with their looks. A chiselled chin or strong jaw line can automatically make a man appear to have a stronger personality and look more confident or more masculine. A recent study shows that men with strong jaw lines or a chiselled chin are more successful in the executive world and even in show business, as the strong facial feature is prominent on superheroes as well as on leading men.

Many surgeons report that this is the reason why jaw line procedures are now number two in popularity for male makeovers, next to liposuction.  There are two types of jaw makeovers:

1.       Chin reduction which reshapes the bone structure to give a smoother outline of the jaw.

2.       Chin augmentation which involves implants or changing the bone position.

Men, and women, would prefer to avoid looking as if they have had work done which may be one of the reasons why many non-surgical jaw sculpting procedures have been developed. Non-surgical procedures are not only faster, but also less painful when compared with surgical procedures.

The Different Types of Non-Surgical Jaw Makeovers:

·         Ultrasound and fillers: This procedure involves the use of ultrasound to tighten the skin on the neck area making the chin stand out. Fillers are used to widen and add emphasis to the chin. Men usually need three to five syringes per procedure at a cost of approximately $800 per syringe. Although the results of this procedure are fast, there is a risk of bruising. It is recommended that the procedure be performed yearly as fillers are absorbed by the body which cause the jaw makeover to lose its effect over time.

·         Ultherapy:  This method uses heat through ultrasound to cause an intentional thermal injury. The effect is slower to appear and may take effect after three to six months.

·         UltraTight: Performed with the use of an ultrasonic wand to deliver heat under the skin as a means of regenerating collagen, this procedure requires two small holes, not needing stitches, to be made under the chin. Although it is reported to be a more aggressive procedure compared to others, patients are only required to wear a chin bandage for a day to help the skin heal close to the muscle wall. Results are apparent after swelling decreases.

·         Fat Freezing: Although this procedure is currently available only for the body, it is anticipated that the FDA will soon approve injections that dissolve skin fat on the face and neck.

A strong jaw is desired by many men to improve their look as it is reported to make careers more successful, possibly due to the confidence that a man exudes when he has a superhero face.