BOTOX Can Do It All!

Did you know that Botox can be used for more than just facial wrinkles? Though I consider Botox somewhat the "Fountain of Youth", Botox has more to offer than just a younger looking face!

Botox is also succesful in temporarily decreasing excessive sweating (otherwise known as "Hyperhidrosis"). By injecting it into the armpit, palm of hands, and/or feet, the sweat glands temporarily decrease the secretion of sweat. Though a larger amount is needed for the armpit area, it should affectively last about three months.

Botox can also slim down the masseter muscles. This is really transforming for someone with a more square face. Additionally, when injected into the masseters, it relieves those that have TMJ (jaw joint disfunction).

Botox can be used to soften the "bunny nose". The "bunny nose" is caused by scrunching your nose , creating the lines on the side of it.

Botox is also very well known for treating migrains. Though it is not EXACTLY known why, Botox does help to block the signaling nerves to the muscles when in turn could be controlling and minimizing muscle tension/spasms.

Botox has many benefits beyond the cosmetic aspect and it's benefits are still being discovered!

GOT BOTOX? Call us today: 310.275.6600

The Lipo Theory

The "lipo" theory...probably one of the most discussed theories when it comes to liposuction.

Patient asks, "If I have liposuction of a certain area, am I then going to get fatter or gain weight in other places?" The answer is simple, NO. Let me explain...



We are all born with a certain amount of fat cells. The fat cells never increase or multiply in number of cells should you gain weight, and they do not decrease in numbers should you lose weight. Our fat cells have the ability to either shrink or expand. The only way of decreasing the number of fat cells is be physically (surgically) removing them via liposuction or tummy tuck.





Ideally, having any area liposuctioned is to make that particular area more in proportion to the reast of your body. So, let's say you have your abdomen liposuctioned, as long as your weight is stable, and the rest of your body is proportionate, your results should be extremely satisfactory and successful! But should you be someone who fluctuates in weight, or have other areas disproportionate, you might find that your fat cells will expand more in those particular areas. And let's say they don't expand, you just might be more focused on those areas now since the liposuctioned area is smaller.



So, to clarify this "theory", just because you have liposuction, DOESN'T mean you will gain weight in other areas. Proper diet, and exercise in conjunction with liposuction is a perfect set-up for a very satisfied patient!

What type of Breast Implants are you looking for?

Most patients these days are aware of the different breast implants that can be offered. Sometimes, patients come for a consultation stating what breast implant manufacture they desire. The more you know, the more comfortable and confident you will feel about moving forward with your surgery. Ultimately, your Surgeon will decide what is best for you, your aesthetic goals, and what is even possible for your body.

Prior to 2006, saline was the only FDA approved breast implants in the USA while silicone gel implants were undergoing further studies and investigations. Then in October 2006, silicone gel implants made a notorious comeback as it gained approval from the FDA. Now, more than ever before, woman are comfortably choosing silicone gel over saline. Silicone gel has a much higher life expectancy than that of saline. Though the general "risks" are still the same as that of saline:( i.e., capsular contracture, infection, etc) the chance of having them replaced due to loss of integrity is much lower. Silicone gel feels more natural than that of saline, as it is a semi-solid implant. There is a lower chance of rippling and wrinkling than that of saline as well.

When it comes to breast implants, there is much that can be discussed: the outer shell (smooth vs. textured), saline filled vs. silicone filled, profile (low, moderate, mid-range, moderate plus profile, and high), size (Surgeons and manufactures go by what's called "cc". This stands for cubic centimeter. The average Jane goes by "cup size"), etc. It is great to know the difference and to know what your possible choices are, but leave it up to your trusted Surgeon to make the choice that's best for you! Besides, they are the experts!

Schedule your breast augmentation consultation TODAY! 310.275.6600

Find out what breast implants are best for YOU!!!!!

If you could have any surgery or treatment done, what would it be and why?

If money was not part of the equation, what would you choose to have surgically altered and why?

Why the word "Plastic" Surgery?

A lot of people have questioned the word "Plastic" in regards to Plastic Surgery. I find it quite humorous that some people even think that Plastic Surgery means to have actual plastic surgically implanted in you some how. Though some people might take plastic surgery overboard and appear artificial, it is not because their doctor used tubberware to surgically alter their face.

Plastic surgery dates as far back as 600BC. A time when punishment in India was to amputate a criminal's nose. As a result, this was one of the first reconstructive/plastic surgery procedures performed. Of course, EXTREMELY different of HOW it is performed today.

The word "plastikos" is Greek and means "to mold into shape". One of the first surgical handbooks published in 1838 incorporated this word and, hence, this is where the phrase/wording came about..."Plastic Surgery"...

Understanding Cosmetic Surgical Cost

You're all excited, ready for your consultation regarding the Plastic Surgery procedure you've been contemplating about all year, or heck, maybe what even feels to you as YOUR ENTIRE LIFE! A lot of thoughts run through your mind, and most certainly you've thought, "How much is this all going to cost me?" Let's face it, money can easily be a determining factor as to WHO you'll go to, or even IF you'll have your surgery done. In a down economy, price may matter to you more than ever before!

You've seen those print-ads in magazines, or coupons that come in your mail that read: "Breast Enlargement for only $3500" and you think to yourself "ok, well, if this place can do it for $3500, other places with higher prices must be really ripping me off". Perhaps, you've now set this coupon-ad as your budget.

So there you are, just completing your consultation, awaiting your quote and BAM! You've been told your Silicone Breast Augmentation that will take about 1.5 hours of operative time is going to cost you about $8000.00!!!???!!! And you think, "What happened to that coupon I saw in the mail? Maybe I should check them out"...
Well, first and foremost, you know the saying, "You get what you pay for", this could very well be true! Yet, it is so important for patients to understand that to perform surgery as a DOCTOR isn't cheap! Here, for example, are the general fees for the SURGEON to perform that Silicone Breast Augmentation you desire:

A Fully Equipped and Accredited Operating Room, An Anesthesiologist and Full Surgical Team (Nurses, Surgical Techs, etc), Supplies for the Surgery, Implants, Surgical Bra or Garmet,Malpractice Insurance to be able to even do the surgery, and of course, your doctor's skill and education! To get to this point of being able to do surgery on you took your doctor YEARS of school and a heavy tuition!

The point here is, don't look for the cheapest cost when deciding on your surgery or Surgeon. And don't always believe those ads either! Often times, it's simply to lure you in! If you get a surgical quote and think "That's cheap!" rather than "That's affordable or reasonable" there is probably a "cutting-corners" reason why that is. Instead, base your decision on the most reputable, well-trained and certified that makes you feel comfortable. Understand WHERE your money is going when it's time for you to "seal the deal". If you think it's going all to your Surgeon...you have certainly mistaken! Remember this also, if you're GREAT at what you do, (and when it comes to your Surgeon, don't you want someone GREAT?) you know your value and worth. And if you're valuable, you probably won't sell your worth for free! =)