2009 Cosmetic Surgery Predictions Revealed

With the weakened economy, skipping plastic and cosmetic surgery procedures in 2008 made sense; however, experts predict that 2009 may be the year to finally get that tummy tuck.

The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) and the editors of the Consumer Guide to Plastic Surgery have reviewed the nip tuck trends in the U.S. this past year, and created a list of predictions for 2009.

2009 looks to be another year for injectable filler ‘liquid facelifts’ and fat injections for breast augmentation, but there are also some new procedures and treatments to look forward to. From eyelash extensions to fat-freezing liposuction, here’s a preview of the top 2009 cosmetic surgery trends:

Facelift alternatives – consumers will still be conscientious about their spending habits in 2009, which means the pricey facelift may not make it to the most coveted list.  More people will be turning to injectables such as Restylane and Juvederm instead; these can help fill out fine lines and wrinkles, and improve the appearance of sagging skin.

Botox alternatives – men and women will continue to count on Botox fora quick-fix antiwrinkle solution, bt there is another alternative to Botox on the horizon.  Reloxin has proven to have similar effects as Botox, but may have fewer risks of side effects; the injectable will finally be available in 2009.

Gummy bear implants – also known as cohesive gel implants, these implants have enjoyed ongoing success in Europe and South America.  They may soon be available in the United States; research and trials are currently underway.

Final word on Lipodissolve – hundreds of consumers reported adverse side effects from Lipodissolve procedures in 2007 and 2008, and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery followed up with a set of clinical trials.  Results from these studies are expected to be released in mid-2009, and may provide some insights on the vtrue safety and efficacy of this liposuction treatment.

Breast implant alternatives -using ones own body fat to augment the breast tissue is expected to become a common procedure in 2009. Women who want to balance out asymmetric breasts or only slightly enlarge their natural breast size may enjoy better results with fat injections.

Eyelash extension treatments – The FDA has approved LATISSE, an eyelash lengthening treatment that promises thicker and fuller lashes, and the drug Lumigan has also been linked to eyelash enhancement.  Consumers may soon see these treatments at their area cosmetic surgeon’s office.

Laser Therapy Helps Reduce Development of Scars

Many patients who undergo cosmetic and plastic surgery procedures experience significant scarring from the incisions.  Procedures such as the tummy tuck, breast augmentation and facelift surgery typically leave behind large, noticeable scars that are difficult to cover up with makeup. Scars can take weeks, months and even years to heal completely and there are a number of topical scar gels and creams available to reduce the appearance of the traumatized skin.

However,  results from a recent study completed at the Cosmetic Surgery and Skin Health Center at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) in Pittsburgh indicate that laser therapy may be used as an early intervention plan for scar formation.  Lasers can be used to stop the growth of scars by delivering high-energy waves to the skin and lightening any discoloration on the traumatized skin. Pulse-dyed lasers and fractionated lasers have been the most effective at reducing the appearance of scars after surgery so far, and lasers such as Fraxel may even help reduce the appearance of mature scars

Dr. Suzan Obagi, assistant clinical profesor of dermatology at UPMC explains that the best time to treat scars with this type of therpay is right when the sutures are removed.  This helps reduce the risk of dark scar formation, and may also speed up the body’s natural healing process.  Increasing collagen and elastin production helps the skin recover rapidly and restore itself to its natural state.

Younger patients tend to heal faster than older patients regardless of the type of treatment used, and overall health and diet also play a role in wound healing and scar development. Individuals who are deficient in vitamins and proteins may not be able to heal as fast or as effectively; however, laser therapy may help to reduce the risk of deep scar formation and improve the healing process overall. (Source: ModernMedicine.com)

Bad Plastic Surgery Reports On the Rise

Botched plastic surgery procedures continue to be a recurring trend around the globe.

In tough economic times when people are looking for an affordable facial fix, many turn to doctors that may not have the skills and experience needed to perform certain types of cosmetic treatments and plastic surgery procedures.

Tristan de Chalain, the head of the New Zealand Foundation for Cosmetic Plastic Surgery reports a surge of complaints about bad plastic surgery procedures in New Zealand and Australia.  Patients interested in getting simple treatments such as Restylane injections to plump up the lips are being offered a complete lip lift instead, and the result isn’t always positive.

Patients are complaining that they have been pressured to get surgery they otherwise did not want or need, and that the results have been far from perfect.

Tristan de Chalain says the problem can be attributed to ‘cosmetic cowboys’ who are simply taking advantage of vulnerable patients who want to look their best.   De Chalain says that many surgeons have the title of a cosmetic surgeon, but may not be registered with New Zealand’s Foundation.

Similar reports have been percolating in the United States.  Patients who report bad plastic surgery often learn that their surgeon was not board-certified and only had minimal experience in performing their procedure successfully.  In some unfortunate cases, the patient is unable to pay for fixing the surgery and must learn to live with the botched results.

The New Zealand Hearald reports that “One of the most shocking this year involved a dermatologist performing a breast augmentation.”

Patients are advised to conduct extensive research on their chosen surgeon and make sure they have seen the surgeon’s qualifications firsthand.  Deep discounts or sales on plastic surgery procedures should also raise a red flag; in many cases, the surgery may not be performed in a safe environment or using appropriate protocol.

LED Therapy Proves to Be Effective for Rosacea

Rosacea is a skin condition aused by inflammation under the skin’s surface, and very few topical treatments can successfully get rid of the discomfort and redness associated with the condition.  Researchers have been studying the effects of LED therapy and intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments which may help reduce inflammation and even reduce the symptoms of rosacea.

LED therapy has been used to treat acne and other skin conditions that have resulted in hyperpigmentation of the skin. The light waves penetrate the skin’s top layer to break down damaged skin tissues and trigger collagen production, which helps to rapidly restore the skin.

Roy Geronemus, M.D., clinical professor of dermatology at Langone Medical Center of New York University has reported continued success with a combination of LED therapy and intense pulsed light treatments.  He uses the LED therapy for patients who have mild cases of rosacea, and as a complement to laser therapy for more severe caases.  The waves have an anti-inflammatory effect which helps calm down the skin and reduces redness almost immediately. (Source: ModernMedicine.com)

There are now several LED machines that may help those who are suffering from rosacea.  The OmniLux was one of the first to obtain FDA approval, and is now widely accepted as an effective skin rejuvenation treatment.

The LumiPhase-R is another system that helps repair and rejuvenate skin that has lost its elasticity; it is designed to increase collagen production, but may have positive effects on rosacea.

Revitalight is an increasingly popular skincare skystem that offers a gentle but effective solution for skin rejuvenation.  This one has been proven to help with treating rosacea and significantly reduces redness after a few sessions.

Patients interested in pursuing LED therapy can meet with a dermatologist or anti-aging specialist to determine  if they have a mild or severe form of rosacea, and review different LED treatment options.

Near Total Face Transplant Performed in the U.S

A woman who had suffered from severe facial trauma recently underwent a near full facial transplant that restored all key facial compartments in her face and helped reconstruct her facial profile.

The Los Angeles Times recently reported on an extensive facial transplant surgery that took place at a Cleveland Clinic in Ohio, helping to replace 80 percent of the patient’s face using a number of reconstructive and facial plastic surgery techniques.

The entire surgery took 22 hours to complete, and involved removing several parts of the face from a donor.  The donor’s nose, nasal sinuses, upper jaw, mid-facial muscles and skin were removed and attached to the woman’s face within 8-9 hours.  The surgeons then reattached the blood vessels so that blood flow could be restored.  The layers of the face were then repositioned and left to heal as the tissues began to reform.

According to Medical News Today, “The procedure was the largest and most complex face transplant “in the world” said a press statement from the Cleveland Clinic. It brought together different working parts of the face like the nose and lower eyelids, as well as different types of tissue such as skin, muscle, bone, blood vessels and nerves.”

The patient had undergone severe facial trauma that left her face completely disfigured.  Thie facial transplant has allowed here to achieve a normal and attractive facial profile and hopefully, enjoy a better quality of life with all of her facial features intact. The patient will be undergoing physiotherapy to ensure that she can smile, blink and breathe properly.

Victims of fire and burn accidents, physical assault and other serious accidents that result in disfigurement have options for restoring their face with facial transplants and a number of dermatology procedures. The near total face transplant performed for the woman in this case was the first of its kind to be performed in the United States.

Drink to Your Health – Your Teeth Will Thank You

Steering clear of red wine, coffee and sugary sodas continues to be an effective strategy for keeping teeth in great shape, but there is one beverage that can protect your teeth against erosion – brewed tea.

Refined sugars and citric acid are some of the culprits behind tooth decay, but it’s become increasingly harder to avoid foods and drinks that contain these ingredients.  In a study published in the Academy of General Dentistry’s journal, General Dentistry, brewed tea contains compounds that won’t wear down tooth enamel and may also help protect the teeth and gums in the long run.

Both black and green tea contain antioxidants that have been linked to a reduced risk of diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular disease, and the study suggests that these teas do not have an erosive effect that can break down teeth enamel. Green tea enthusiasts also enjoy the added benefit of flavanoids in their beverage, plant nutrients that support a healthy immune system and ward off certain diseases.

In order to reap the most benefits from drinking tea, experts say it’s best to enjoy the tea in its natural state – without using sugars, lemon or even milk to mask the taste.  The tea’s natural flavanoids cannot be absorbed as easily when they’re coupled with other ingredients, so it’s best to drink that cup of tea – iced or steaming hot – as is.

In addition to drinking freshly brewed tea regularly, there are ways to reduce the effects of erosion from foods and drinks in the daily diet.  Dentists recommend chewing sugar-free gum between meals to increase saliva flow to the mouth; this acts as a protective covering for the teeth which can then reduce the risk of developing gum disease and tooth decay.

It’s also a good idea to rinse the mouth with water regularly, especially after a meal.   And, if you must have that sugary soda or coffee, drink it quickly through a straw to reduce the risk of erosion on the tops of the teeth.

(Source: Academy of General Dentistry)

Curcumin May Help Fight the Signs of Aging

Eating antioxidant-rich foods and taking vitamin and mineral supplements may help ward off the signs of aging, but researchers have discovered that some spices have certain properties that can help reduce inflammation and also help keep wrinkles at bay.

Madalene Heng, M.D., the Professor of Medicine/Dermatology at the University of California, Los Angeles School of Medicine recently reported on the health and skin benefits of curcumin, the key phytochemical found in the spice turmeric.

She says that the compounds can be used to treat inflammation and may even help with scar and wound repair.  These anti-inflammatory powers may help reduce fine lines and sun-damaged skin, and even reduce the appearance of fresh scars.

Curcumin is powerful enough to inhibit secretion of the post-injury compound known as phosphorylase kinase which is involved in the inflammatory response and creates certain types of skin growths and scars.

Dr. Heng explains that curcumin can be applied in a gel form directly onto the scars or damaged skin twice per day.  The skin will slowly begin to heal and reform, and the anti-inflammatory powers of the compound can help reduce soreness, redness and itchy skin.  However, one of the drawbacks of using this compound is the temporary yellow coloring that is often left behind; the spice also has a very strong odor which can be unpleasant for those who are sensitive to smell.

Curcumin is best used on top of the skin, and not ingested as a spice, because of the body’s ability to absorb and metabolize its anti-aging properties.

Consuming antioxidant-rich food is another viable strategy for keeping skin in good health.  Researchers continue to laud the benefits of foods such as ginger and tomatoes because they contain a significant amount of anti-inflammatory compounds and may ward off certain diseases.  Antioxidant-rich foods help to neutralize free radicals in the body so that the body can protect itself from toxins in the environment.

According to Dr. Baumann of the Miami Cosmetic Medicine and Research Institute, “Curcumin is excellent for wrinkles and can curb inflammation and the formation of free radicals. And supplements of curcumin can help a patient tolerate Retin A better through its anti-inflammatory effects. Supplementing curcumin with retinoids and green tea can only be beneficial in curbing the speed at which the skin ages.”

(Source: ModernMedicine.com)

Visit the Dentist and Reduce Risk of Heart Disease

While eating low fat foods and maintaining a healthy weight with a fitness regimen are a few ways to ward off heart disease, experts say visiting the dentist regularly is another way to keep your health in good shape.

Scientists have found that people with heart disease tend to have a high level of a certain protein that causes inflammation; a recent study published in the FASEB Journal suggests that the inflammation may be a result of unhealthy teeth and gums. The FASEB Journal is published by the American Societies for Experimental Biology (FASEB) which promotes scientific progress and education in the field of human health.  This study provides some insights on ways to reduce the risk of heart disease outside of conventional methods.

researchers involved in this study reached their conclusions by examining the arteries of 35 people with a median age of 46 who had mild to moderate periodontal disease (gum disease).  After one year of dental treatments – regular brushing, cleaning, flossing and maintaining a healthy set of teeth – the amount of oral bacteria in the mouth decreased significantly and the blood vessels had become much thinner. (Source:  Medical News Today)

Infected gums can be prevented with regular flossing, deep cleaning and frequent visits to the dentist.  People who avoid going to the dentist, or those that do not floss and brush regularly may be at risk for developing unhealthy blood vessels and gum tissue that leads to the thickening of the blood vessels.  Over time, these vessels become inflamed and increse the risk of heart disease.

The Mayo Clinic recommends that everyone should see their dentist one to two times per year to prevent gum disease and oral health problems, and to use the right techniques for brushing and flossing.  Techniques include:

• Brushing at least twice per day, ideally after every meal
• Avoiding vigorous brushing that irritates the gums
• Using an electric toothbrush
• Using a mouth rinse to reduce plaque
• Using fresh floss throughout the mouth
• Using an interdental cleaner to clean between teeth

Facelift Alternatives May Be Safer for Patients Under 65

While thousands of men and women undergo facelift surgery each year to tighten up sagging skin, eliminate fine lines and wrinkles and regain their youthful looks, some doctors arre encouraging patients to steer clear of the surgeon’s table.

Facial rejuvenation procedures that do not involve any surgery or incisions are becoming increasingly popular alternatives to the conventional facelift, and more surgeons are perfecting their technique for administering Botox injections, photo rejuvenation facials and other treatments to help eliminate or reduce wrinkles.

Dr. Jeffrey Kronson, a fellow of the American College of Surgeons recently stated that; “there is no reason for a face-lift if you are under 65 years old. When a doctor invades the cosmetic envelope, cutting tissue, inflammation is created which needs to be repaired. There is inevitable scarring and removal of skin which can’t be replaced.” (Source: emaxhealth.com)

One of the latest facelift alternatives that can help reduce the risks associated with surgery is the ‘liquid facelift.’  This facelift alternative makes use of a set of different injectable fillers such as Restylane, Juvederm and Botox to increase facial tissue volume and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.  While results are not permanent, this type of ‘facelift’ does provide instant results and does not involve any recovery time.

A set of treatments may also be purchased as a package, further reducing the total costs of treatment and allowing patients to stay within a smaller budget.  Dr. Kronson explains that these small fixes may be all it really takes to boost self-confidence and enjoy the benefits of cosmetic enhancements with little or no risks.

Other beauty enhancements on the radar of patients who do not want to undergo surgery to look younger include laser facial rejuvenation, Intense Pulsed Light treatments, and injection rhinoplasty.  All of these treatments also cost less than the standard facelift, and the procedures are available at several medical spas and cosmetic surgery centers around the country.

Malaysia Poised to Be Next Medical Tourism Destination of Choice

As more Americans look for alternatives to costly cosmetic procedures during the economic recession, many medical tourism companies and overseas cosmetic surgery providers are dropping their rates and fees to capture the market.

Medical tourism has taken a hit during the economic slump as fewer Americans jump onto the plane for a cosmetic surgery retreat.  However, medical tourism still offers some of the most affordable treatment packages for otherwise costly procedures; tummy tucks, facelifts and liposuction procedures that can cost upwards of $10,000 in the United States are priced under $2,000 in some countries in Asia and South America.  Now, the tourism board of Malaysia is working hard to tap into the medical tourism market to position Malaysia as a top medical tourism destination.

The medical tourism agency Perfect Enhancement Sdn Bhd (PESB) points out that Malaysia is one of the most affordable countries to have cosmetic surgery from licensed and experienced surgeons.  The Asian market continues to attract many medical tourists, and extensive surgery such as breast implants and tummy tucks are priced at a fraction of prices in the United States, United Kingdom and Canada.

In Malaysia, the medical tourism trend is going strong but competing for travelers who are heading to Thailand, the Philippines or India for their cosmetic surgery procedure.

While demand for medical tourism packages is expected to decline significantly in 2009 as more patients delay their surgery, it is expected to pick up shortly after the economy picks up in early 2010. According to a recent press release published in pbtimes.com, the PESB is hoping to capture 10 per cent of the cosmetic surgery market in the next five years, and will be looking for new ways to promote several of the leading plastic surgery and medical facilities in Malaysia in order to achieve its long-term goals.