Plastic Surgeons Concerned About Botox Breast Lift

Breast augmentation and breast enhancement procedures continue to be amongst the most sought-after procedures by women around the globe, and there are now hundreds of breast enhancing products and ‘cleavage rejuvenation’ kits available for those who aren’t ready to pursue surgery.

One of the latest innovations in this area is the Botox Breast Lift, a treatment that promises to lift and enhance the breasts using only Botox injections, the same injectable used to treat lines and wrinkles along the forehead. However, plastic surgeons aren’t convinced that the Botox Breast Lift is a viable solution for improving a woman’s bust line.

Plastic surgeons that attended the American Society of Plastic Surgeons Plastic Surgery 2009 Conference in Seattle this October emphasized the Botox Breast Lift, cleavage rejuvenation products and other similar ‘treatments’ are more hype than reality. Cleavage rejuvenation procedures that involve injecting a non-allergenic filler into the cleavage are designed to reduce wrinkles, while Botox is used to temporarily paralyze the chest muscles and forces the patient to stand up straighter, thereby lifting up their breasts. However, plastic surgeons warn that neither of these procedures can produce the results of breast augmentation or breast enhancement surgery.

Surgeons also warn that there are a number of ‘DIY’ procedures and other marketing hype surrounding non-invasive breast augmentation procedures, and that many consumers make the mistake of investing in these because of the lure of reduced prices during the weak economy. Procedures such as Awake-Breast Augmentation where the patient is awake while getting implants is one such procedure under review by experts in the industry.

Other hyped procedures that may not produce desired results include cellulite reduction treatments, cosmetic gynecology and fillers such as Selphyl, a new blood-based injectable that promises to fill out lines and wrinkles.

(Source: ASPS Public Relations)

Microsurgery Shows Promise for Breast Reconstruction

The UT Southwestern Medical Center has introduced a relatively new and rare microsurgery procedure for breast reconstruction patients. The center has developed the Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator (DIEP) flap procedure for women seeking breast reconstruction after a mastectomy.

According to Dr. Michael Saint-Cyr, this procedure preserves muscles so that recovery is quicker and there is less postoperative pain. In this procedure, the surgeons can reconstruct the breast with skin and fat that is taken from the abdomen. This gives the patient a tummy tuck while getting their breast reconstruction, and the entire process is completed by reattaching blood vessels under a microscope.

According to Dr. Michel Saint-Cyr, assistant professor of plastic surgery, this microsurgery can be done immediately after a mastectomy so that patients can have their breast tissue removed in just one step. Dr. Saint-Cyr points out that the reconstructed breast is firmer, has a more youthful appearance, and looks very similar to the original breasts because of this procedure. Since a significant amount of fat is removed from the abdomen, the patient undergoes a basic tummy tuck which can help to further improve their appearance and enhance their silhouette.

Dr. Saint-Cyr also points out that “Due to the complexity of the microsurgery, only about 40 surgeons nationwide routinely perform these types of procedures so travel may be required for some women to find a surgeon with the needed experience.” This type of surgery may be most appropriate for women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer and must have either one or both breasts removed.

This procedure, along with other similar microsurgery procedures, will be discussed at the “What’s New in Breast Reconstruction: Optimizing Results Using a Multidisciplinary Approach” seminar hosted at UT Southwestern in early December. The event will be open to the public and will include discussions about breast conservation therapy, nipple-sparing mastectomy techniques and options in breast reconstruction.

(Source: MedicalNewsToday.com)

Stem Cell Breast Augmentation Receives FDA Approval

Stem cells have already been used to help with the repair of certain organs and tissues, and the process of harvesting the cells from fat may soon be commonplace in the cosmetic surgery realm. The FDA has recently approved the stem cell breast augmentation procedure, a combination of liposuction and breast enhancement techniques that can enhance the breasts to create a fuller, more natural appearance.

“Stem cell implants” have been in the media spotlight in recent years, as they do offer a more natural look and feel than conventional implants made with silicone or saline. In this procedure, the implant is made using the body’s own cells and tissues.

Fat is extracted from the stomach and thighs before the stem cells are extracted from the fatty mass. The stem cells are then added to other fatty tissues so that they can regenerate and create real body tissues. This results in smoother, softer and more supple looking breasts, and there is no risk of rupturing or a risk of the formation of cysts.

The stem cell implant procedure can increase the size of the breasts between one to two cup sizes, and offers a natural alternative to silicone or saline implants. Several trials have been completed in Europe with great success, and now research confirms that the stem cell procedure for breast augmentation is a viable option for patients in the United States.

Professor Kefa Mokbel, a consultant breast surgeon at the London Breast Institute at the Princess Grace Hospital reported last year that “implants are a foreign body. They are associated with long-term complications and require replacement. They can also lean and cause scarring.” The stem cell technique does not have these risks and side effects, and is most suitable for  a modest increase in breast size. Ultimately, this procedure can help to restore volume and create a more balanced, attractive silhouette. (Source: TimesOnline)

More Women Over 50 Seeking Plastic Surgery

While cosmetic and plastic surgery is often a top priority for men and women undergoing  a midlife crisis or other major life changes, industry experts are reporting an increase in demand for the plastic makeover in women over 50 years of age.

Cosmetic surgery group Mybreast based in London reports that they have seen a 20 percent increase in breast surgery patients from 50 to 65 years of age in 2009. According to Norman Waterhouse of Mybreast, “many women with large breasts have had discomfort for many years and by the time they reach 50 and over, they decide to do something about it.” (Source: Sys-Con.com)

Breast surgery typically has a high satisfaction rage among patients over 50 years of age, and is becoming more acceptable by many women in their 50s and 60s who want to improve their appearance.

Mybreast is an organization that uses specialized breast augmentation techniques to perform both surgical and non-surgical breast enhancement procedures. In addition to breast implants, the surgeons use breast reshaping techniques such as mastopexy and liposuction that help to create an attractive silhouette.

Breast augmentation continues to be one of the most sought-after cosmetic procedures for women of all ages, and those who want to correct droopy or sagging breasts have several options for improving their silhouette. Mastoxepy, breast recontouring and skin tightening procedures can all help to create a more youthful appearance.

Stephen Hamilton, a consultant plastic surgeon with Mybreast, reports that there is much greater acceptance among women in the 50 to 60 year age group to undergo surgery, and there is little to no stigma attached. In addition to breast augmentation, popular anti aging procedures and surgery option for this age group include laser skin resurfacing, facelift surgery, liposuction, Endermologie and Botox injections.  More information about popular procedures can be found here.

IDEAL Implant an Alternative to Silicone Breast Implants

Both saline and silicone breast implants continue to be some of the most sought-after procedures in cosmetic surgery, and are fueling the trends in ‘mommy makeovers’ and procedures that allow women to transform their upper body and create a more attractive silhouette. Many doctors prefer to use either saline or silicone based on the type of results the patient is looking for, and how much risk they are willing to take.

The IDEAL implant has recently been released for clinical trials to offer another option for women interested in breast augmentation.

The IDEAL Implant is a saline-filled implant that promises a much more natural result than silicone gel because it is designed as a series of implant shells that are nested together.

This creates the sponge-like, cushioned appearance of the natural breast tissue, and limits the ‘bouncing’ effect that is common with traditional saline implants. IDEAL implants are also designed to conform to the chest wall, so they look like they are real when the woman is wearing a bikini or other clothing that shows off a good portion of her chest.

Saline implants account for approximately 60 percent of all breast augmentation procedures, and do offer several benefits over silicone gel. The  IDEAL Implant is designed to produce similar results as silicone gel without the risks; the implants have a low risk of rupturing, and the makers of the implant say there are very few long-term side effects.

IDEAL Implants are being rolled out only in select markets. Plastic surgeons in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Atlanta, Houston, Dallas, Los Angeles and the Orange County area will be enrolled in the first round of clinical trials, and 500 women will be selected as test subjects. This initial trial will provide enough data to present to the FDA for approval.

Women who are interested in becoming a test subject can enroll for the trial by visiting www.idealimplant.com, and setting up a consultation with a plastic surgeon in their area.

Demand for Breast Implants Continues Despite Economy

Even though many Americans are cutting back on luxury expenses such as cosmetic surgery during the recession, demand for procedures continues to remain strong.  With beach season right around the corner, women in particular are still turning to plastic surgery to give their looks a boost, and demand for breast implants is still strong.

According to the American Society for Plastic Surgeons, breast augmentation is still most-performed surgical procedure in the United States; more women are turning to silicone implants in recent years because of the myriad of benefits and low risk of puncture.  Even though silicone implants cost between $1,000 to $1,200 more than saline implants, most patients feel comfortable with paying the difference because of the natural-looking results of saline, and fewer risks involved.

But how are they paying the price for beauty in this economy?  More plastic surgeons are offering flexible payment plans and financing options for patients interested in investing in a pricey procedure. Companies like CareCredit offer several different patient financing options, and doctors have the option to choose various packages for their patients.  Some doctors are also offering their own ‘layaway’ plans or other incentives to get more patients in the door this season.

The average cost of silicone implants is about $6,500 – $8,000+ depending on the doctor, location of the surgery center, and general fees.  Saline implants can cost between $5,000 – $6,000+ depending on the doctor and surgery center.  Breast implant procedures can be paid for with a personal loan, patient financing, or even credit cards.

Breast implants, liposuction and Botox injections are among the most sought-after procedures in the United States, and even though fewer people are heading to the doctor’s office this year, most are still investing in these key procedures in order to improve their looks.

(Source: ABCLocal.com)

Survey Says 80% of Breast Implants are for C-Cups

A survey published in the March/April issue of the Aesthetic Surgery Journal suggests that more than 80% of breast implants performed for only cosmetic surgery purposes, are for a C-cup, or a 300 to 400cc size.

Many women who undergo breast augmentation choose at least one or two cups larger than their natural size to ensure that the outcome appears natural.

Choosing the right size is essential for creating the right look and silhouette, and is one the most important decisions made during the procedure selection process.

Surgeons who want to create a natural look typically use saline implants because these are easy to implement, and have fewer risks than silicone implants. According to Dr. Rod Rohrich and Dr. Edward Reece who recently led a study on the types of materials plastic surgeons prefer to use, 60% of surgeons use saline implants, and the majority prefer to use saline for first-time patients. Results of the survey were recently revealed to members of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and results indicate that saline is still the favored choice, regardless of the low risk of having the implant ‘burst’ or migrate to another part of the body.

Other important considerations when selecting breast implants is the texture of the surface, and the shape of the implant.  Many doctors offer both smooth and textured surfaces as an option for patients, since the textured surface typically creates a more natural look, while smoother surfaces create an artificial appearance.

Different types of patients have different needs; for example, models may prefer a smoother implant because these look better on camera and will maintain their round shape.  Textured implants may be more appropriate for women who just want to enhance their figure and balance out their silhouette.

Whatever the case may be, studies suggest more women are interested in increasing their breast size to a C-cup, regardless of the type and shape of implant that is used.

Miami Cosmetic Surgery Center Now Offering Bikini Body Packages

Bikini season is right around the corner, which means more people are opting for quick-fix cosmetic procedures and liposuction to achieve their beach-ready look. Cosmetic Harmony, a medical tourism company based in Colombia, has recently launched its lineup of ‘Bikini Body Combos’ specifically for beach lovers.

The experts there report that they see a significant increase in demand for specific procedures like liposuction, tummy tucks, breast jobs and thigh toning during March and the rest of spring season as more women look for ways to freshen up their looks before summer.

Cosmetic Harmony has experienced a significant increase in both new and returning clients who want combination procedures, and they’ve made it possible for more people to have them by reducing the prices and offering combo procedures as a package. Individuals interested in liposuction and thigh toning, or breast enhancement and tummy tucks, can now purchase a package and save a few hundred dollars.

Cosmetic Harmony offers a number of attractively priced packages for foreigners. A sampling of some of the combination procedures include:

Eyelid surgery + Nasal labial fold fat injections: Regularly $3,285, promotional price = $2,685

Face Lift + Eyelid Surgery: Regularly $7,825, promotional price = $6,785

Breast Augmentation + Abdominal Liposuction + Etching: Regularly $5,580, promotional price = $4,985

These procedures can cost up to five times more at cosmetic and plastic surgery centers in the United States and Europe, and the surgeons of Cosmetic Harmony have been fully trained and certified by the Colombian Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons.

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons does warn all individuals who are considering cosmetic surgery overseas to do some research about the center they are going to, read all the ‘fine print’ in the contracts and disclosures, and confirm that the surgeon they will be seeing has been certified by the country’s national plastic surgery boards and medical boards.

U.K. Flight Attendant Undergoes 30-Hour Plastic Surgery Makeover

An extreme makeover TV show in Great Britain recently selected a flight attendant from Lancashire to undergo a complete transformation, but the procedures that cost over $160,000 ended up leaving her with much more than she bargained for.

Nicola Stratton, 35, wanted to improve her looks with breast implants and the TV show, “A Brand New You” on Channel 5 in the U.K. offered to pay for the costs of her makeover as part of their makeover segment.  Nicola underwent 30 hours of plastic surgery in Los Angeles in order to achieve her ideal look; when it was finished, the audience was astounded at the dramatic transformation.  She went from a B-cup to a DD, and now had a very feminine, curvy figure. The surgeons also gave her facial liposuction and pinned her ears back as part o the transformation.

Unfortunately, there was more in store for this flight attendant looking for a self-esteem boost.  Her self-confidence improved considerably, and she finally felt ‘more feminine.’  However, the results did not last.  In late March 2009, only five years after her extensive makeover procedure, one of her implants burst and left her left breast sagging and loose.  The show makers are not paying for additional surgery, so Nicola has to fork over the $7,500+ for the breast correction and revision surgery.  She says that she simply cannot afford the procedure, and is worried that the other breast might burst as well.

The Los Angeles surgeon who performed the procedure did extend a 10-year warranty for the breast implants, so Nicola will only be responsible for surgery fees, the hospital stay and the flight to and from the U.S. However, this will easily cost her up to $10,000, and she is not prepared to pay the bill.

Nicola has been actively pursuing the TV show producers to see if they can help her out.  She says living with differently sized breasts is a nightmare. (Source: The Daily Mail)

Bal Harbour Plastic Surgeon Hosts Plastic Surgery Runway Show

A plastic surgeon in Bal Harbour recently hosted a plastic surgery runway event to show off some of his latest work and encourage guests to pursue the latest procedure.

Dr. Michael Salzhauer, the same plastic surgeon who authored the book My Beautiful Mommy that spurred controversy in early 2008, was eager to do a live ‘before and after’ demonstration with patients he had worked on this past year. The fashion event gave patients a chance to show off their new looks  as they paraded down the runway with models from an area modeling agency.

The event took place at the surgeons five-story plastic surgery center and was deemed a ‘Silicone Celebration’ by the Miami New Times. The show featured live music by local DJs along with refreshments and cocktails for all gala guests.

Dr. Salzhauer claims that the Bal Harbour and Bay Harbor Islands have been named Silicon Alley for several years as more people head south for their breast enhancement procedure.  Dr. Salzhauer achieved national recognition with the release of his controversial book, one that critics claimed sent the wrong message about body image to both children and mothers.  Still, the doctor continues to promote the benefits of breast enhancement and plastic surgery as a means to boost self-esteem, and pointed out that many of the patients who modeled at his show could never have made it without their surgery.

In addition to the show, prospective patients had a chance to meet the doctor and learn more about different procedures with an informational session and bulletin board pasted with before and after pictures. The formal event also allowed attendees to socialize with current patients and the staff of Bal Harbour Plastic Surgery Associates.

While celebrities continue to parade down the red carpet with picture-perfect looks – thanks to their favorite plastic surgeon – many people may enjoy similar results from a highly skilled surgeon.  A-list plastic surgeons in cities such as Miami, Beverly Hills, New York City and Chicago are helping hundreds of people achieve their ideal figures and reverse the signs of aging.

Fashion shows and informational sessions like these can answer many burning questions about plastic surgery, and give patients a chance to see before and after photos of successful procedures to aid in the decision-making process.

(Photo courtesy of the Miami New Times)