Beauty and Cosmetic Industry Continues to Boom in Brazil

In the wake of the recent slump in demand for cosmetic and plastic procedures in the United States, countries including Brazil are reporting an overall increase in demand for many aesthetic procedures and beauty treatments.

Salons, spas, and even plastic surgery centers are reporting a significant increase in demand for beauty treatments and cosmetic procedures, and the market for beauty products and cosmetics continues to rise at steady rate.

According to a recent story in Gulf News, “the recent transformation in the lives of ordinary Brazilians owes much to the low inflation and economic stability brought by orthodox economic policies since the mid-1990s – a floating exchange rate, inflation targeting by the central bank and steady reductions in public debt – and to the expansion of income transfer programmes under President Luiz Inacio Lula de Silva since 2003.” (Source: GulfNews.com)

What this means for the beauty and cosmetic industry is that many Brazilian doctors and beauty professionals have been able to build new businesses or keep their existing business afloat even during troubled economic times overseas. In many cases, U.S. residents and Europeans have been traveling to Brazil to undergo pricey procedures such as breast augmentation, buttocks augmentation, liposuction and tummy tucks at Brazilian cosmetic and plastic surgery centers just to save on costs.

Brazil, and many other South American countries, are famous for their “medical tourism” packages where plastic and cosmetic surgery centers offer attractively-priced packages on popular procedures including liposuction, breast implants and facial plastic surgery at a fraction of the average market cost in the United States. In some cases, the discount can be as much as 50% or more off the standard price for the procedure.

The American Society of Plastic Surgery warns that it’s still important to do research about the surgeon , and also to get information about the track record of the plastic or aesthetic surgery center overseas, before booking that appointment.

First Stem Cell Breast Augmentation Surgery Performed in Boca Raton

Earlier this month, Stem Cell Assurance, Incorporated announced that Arthur Handal, MD, F.A.C.S., has performed the first ever regenerative cell breast augmentation procedure through the Stem Cell Assurance physician network. The procedure was successfully performed at the Handal Plastic Surgery clinic in Boca Raton, Florida.

The goal of the procedure was to increase the patient’s breast size by one cup. Fat was extracted from the patient’s hips and thighs through a conventional tumescent liposuction procedure, and transplanted into the breast tissues for assimilation.

Shortly after the procedure, Dr. Handal stated that, “Today is a defining moment in breast augmentation surgery. The offering of this pioneering procedure through a collaborative national physician network is an important milestone that marks major improvement on current technology and the way in which it is delivered to the patient.”

Dr. Handal was able to create a natural-looking set of breasts using certain techniques that would insure the breast tissues would adapt to the introduction of the fat and regenerative cells. Since the procedure does not involve introducing a foreign implant, there was no risk that the body would reject it. According to a press release from the Stem Cell Assurance, Inc. network, the fat volume retention rate is approximately 80% or more compared to the 30-50% survival rate of fat retention in other fat grafting procedures.

Stem Cell Assurance, Inc. is the first U.S.-based company to offer adult stem cells for physician use. The company offers several services including adult stem cell research, stem cell collection, cryogenic storage and cosmetic therapies.

Dr. Handal is a board-certified plastic surgeon and is dedicated to the field of aesthetic plastic surgery. The patient that underwent the procedure has been monitored closely with scheduled follow up visits with Dr. Handal, and more information about the outcomes of the procedure will be posted on the Stem Cell Assurance website.

ASAPS Reports More Teens Are Turning to Plastic Surgery to Improve their Looks

While the millions of men and women between the ages of 18 and 35 that undergo plastic and cosmetic procedures each year have been deemed the “target market” for many plastic surgeons, a recent study reports that teenagers may soon be fueling some of the demand for popular procedures.

The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery reports that in 2008, more than 160,000 teens age 18 years or younger underwent some type of cosmetic surgery. The most popular procedures for this group included Botox injections, liposuction and breast augmentation. While these teens do need their parent’s permission to undergo plastic or cosmetic surgery, experts point out that many parents are fine with letting their teens have their procedure, and do understand the risks involved.

According to Donn Chatham, president of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, “boomer parents may themselves even be undergoing cosmetic surgery and may feel for our children that it’s not a stretch.”

Popular procedures for baby boomers include anti aging treatments such as laser skin resurfacing and skin rejuvenation procedures, Botox injections and facial plastic surgery. Other in-demand procedures include breast implants, liposuction, skin tightening treatments and body lifts.

Still, many experts believe that plastic surgery for teenagers is often misguided and is a dangerous attempt to increase the teen’s self-esteem. Since many teenagers struggle with body image and self-esteem issues through their young adult years, “fixing” the problem with surgery alone isn’t necessarily the resolution. For many, counseling and support groups can help the teen increase their self-esteem by striving for things unrelated to their looks.

Experts say that much of this “demand” is driven by the media’s idea of perfection in both men and women, so it’s only natural that more teens would rather go under the knife to achieve the ideal. Unfortunately, this pressure to be perfect can also lead to a number of destructive behaviors.

First U.S. Transplant Reported in ASPS Journal

The January issue of the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery journal, the official publication of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, contains a report about the first facial transplantation procedure performed in the United States.

Facial transplantation involves an extensive facial tissue grafting and transplant process that is different from traditional facial implants. The procedure is designed to correct disfigurement after severe injuries.

Dr. Maria Z. Siemionow and researchers at the Cleveland Clinic report that, “we are pleased to report an excellent functional, psychological and social outcome for our patient at 8 months following transplantation.”

The facial transplantation procedure was performed in December 2008 at the Cleveland Clinic, but physicians, plastic surgeons, bioethicists and psychiatrists had initiated the research process as early as 2003. This team of experts worked with several organ procurement organizations and developed an informed consent procedure that received approval by 2004.

The patient selected for the procedure was a 45-year-old woman who had suffered severe facial injuries from a short-range shotgun blast. She was left with severe disabilities and had explored several reconstructive facial surgery options, but none of them had produced a desirable outcome. The patient underwent a 22-hour procedure to replace over 80 percent of her facial anatomy. The tissues were prepared from a deceased donor, and the operation included a rehabilitation and physical therapy program so that the patient could adjust to her new face.

According to the ASPS journal’s report, “The patient has recovered well, with no serious complications through eight months of follow-up. With true dedication to her recovery, the patient has regained most facial functions, including sense of smell, speech, and the ability to eat solid foods and drink from a cup.”

To date, nine facial transplants have been performed successfully worldwide, and Dr. Sieminow is enthusiastic about future surgeries that could help disfigured patients enjoy much more favorable outcomes than conventional reconstructive surgery procedures.

Medicare Patients Linked with Improved Outcomes for Bariatric Surgery

After some recent rule changes applicable to patients with Medicare coverage, the Archives of Surgery January issue reports that the majority of Medicare patients that undergo bariatric surgery are experiencing much better outcomes. Many Medicare patients are undergoing minimally-invasive weight loss procedures in order to start the weight loss process, simply because these procedures are covered by insurance.

Accrding to the report, “the increase in bariatric surgery resulted in increasing scrutiny by third-party payers and the media with regard to the safety of bariatric surgery.”

The National Coverage Determination (NDC) for bariatric surgery was issued by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services in February 2006 to cover the costs of bariatric surgery for patients older than 65. These patients are permitted to pursue treatment from any bariatric surgery center certified by the American College of American Surgeons (ACS) or the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS).

Researchers and doctors at the University of California, Irvine Medical Center have compared the outcomes and effects of hundreds of bariatric surgery procedures performed on Medicare patients since the introduction of the new plan, and have found that most experience excellent outcomes and effects from their procedure. During the study, a total of 6,264 patients underwent bariatric surgery , and after the implementation of the NCD, the volume of gastric banding procedures doubled with a significant difference in overall effects.

Experts conclude that even though only Medicare beneficiaries were part of this study, minimally-invasive procedures may be just as effective for people who are not covered by insurance. Currently, gastric banding surgery is available at hundreds of weight loss clinics and bariatric centers around the country. Patients interested in pursuing this type of weight loss procedure need to set up a consultation with a board-certified bariatric surgeon in their area.

Reaction Body Contouring Device Receives Health Canada Certification

Today’s innovative cellulite treatments include procedures such as VelaSmooth and Endermologie, but these treatments typically don’t provide permanent results.

A new device that makes use of radiofrequency energy may soon become available at more medical spas and cosmetic surgery centers around the United States, and promises exceptional results with its innovative vacuum therapy and radiofrequency system.

The Viora Reaction device is a brand new cellulite treatment system that has recently received Health Canada certification. The device is designed with a CORE technology that delivers a combination of vacuum therapy and variable radiofrequency energy into the skin tissues, increasing blood circulation to the problem area and helping to break down stubborn fatty deposits that cause cellulite.

According to Viora’s CEO Josef Luzon, “We are confident in the Reaction’s ability to bring a true revolution in body contouring treatments and we are witness to incredible results every day.”

Patients who underwent the testing phase for the Viora Reaction system reported an 81 percent improvement in skin laxity and wrinkles, and a 55 percent improvement in the appearance of cellulite.

The procedure is non-invasive and most patients can expect to see results after just a single treatment. However, a series of treatments is recommended, as the skin can resume its original state within a few weeks without further intervention. The Viora Reaction device can be used on several different areas of the body including the legs, stomach, buttocks, face, hips and thighs. Most patients need to undergo at least six to eight sessions that last about 20 to 30 minutes each in order to see results.

The device has received FDA clearance in the United States, but is currently only available at select medical spas and cosmetic surgery centers around the country. In addition to undergoing regular treatments, the patient needs to eat a healthy diet and maintain a consistent exercise regimen.

Coolaser Offers New Option for Treating Crows Feet

The small wrinkles that develop around the edges of the eyes and around the lash line are among the telltale signs of aging, but there are several cosmetic procedures that can help to reduce the appearance of these lines – also known as crows feet – or eliminate them altogether.

Skin tightening treatments and Botox injections can provide temporary wrinkle relief, but an innovative laser that works by promoting collagen regrowth may also offer some benefits.

The Coolaser device is desgiend to deliver laser energy deep into the top layer of the skin and causes the skin tissues to contract. In this procedure, the entire surface of the skin is first cooled using a special device, and then a series of light pulses are emitted onto the skin’s surface. The skin cells absorb the light energy to completely vaporize the cells. As the physician passes this light over the skin, small amounts of tissue are removed. Since this is perceived as damage to the skin, collagen production increases. This tightening effect helps to strengthen the skin and restores elasticity.

The Coolaser device is currently performed at the office of Dr. Simon Ourian, the Medical Director of Epione Medical Corporation of Los Angeles, and so far, has delivered very promising results.

In addition to treating wrinkles, the Coolaser is designed to remove superficial blemishes and can also even out an uneven skin tone. The treatment takes between 10 to 15 minutes, and the depth of penetration can be adjusted according to the person’s skin type.

Patients can turn to this innovative laser technology to eliminate wrinkles, but are also advised to take care of their skin by using Retin-A topical skin creams (available only by prescription), or by undergoing a skin tightening treatment that helps to tighten all of the skin around the face and neck area.

Zerona, Thermage and Botox Leading Cosmetic Surgery Trends for January 2010

Some of the latest fat removal and skin tightening procedures are becoming the most sought-after procedures for the year, according a trends report published by American Health and Beauty.

At the top of the list are Zerona, SmartLipo and Thermage skin tightening treatments, as well as the ever-popular Botox.

Zerona is one of the new contenders for people interested in losing inches without surgery. This procedure promises to zap away a few inches around the thighs, hips and stomach without any incisions, using a high-powered laser device that helps to “melt” fatty deposits under the skin and helps create a more streamlined appearance. Zerona was introduced to only a few medical spas and cosmetic surgery centers in the late summer of 2009, and is now available at dozens of medical centers around the country. The treatment plan requires a visit once per week, and the cost of the treatment package ranges between $3,000 to $4,500+ depending on the location of the center.

SmartLipo treatments are also a popular procedure for men and women that want to lose a few inches, but this type of liposuction does require incisions. SmartLipo works with an innovative laser technology device that helps to liquefy fatty deposits before extraction. In this procedure, a small incision is made before a laser is inserted into the body through a small tube. Doctors report that this procedure promises fewer side effects and complications than traditional liposuction, and is most effective for targeting those few stubborn pounds.

Minimally invasive procedures such as Botox and Thermage are among the most sought-after anti aging procedures for men and women. These procedures help eliminate fine lines and deeper wrinkles, and in the case of Thermage, can promote healthy skin renewal. Thermage skin tightening treatments are designed to heat up the dermal layer of the skin to create a contraction. Over time, the skin begins to heal and appears plumper and more toned.

ASPS Survey Results Reveals Surgeries Most Plastic Surgeons Prefer

A team of researchers recently surveyed a select group of members from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) to find out what plastic surgeons really think about certain procedures, and which ones they prefer to have themselves.

The survey asked plastic surgeons to gauge their level of interest on different procedures including minimally invasive procedures such as Botox, to more extensive surgical procedures such as liposuction and breast implants.

Over 270 plastic surgeons responded to the survey, and several indicated that they have had some type of surgery or cosmetic improvement themselves. Survey results show that the most popular procedures that plastic surgeons have undergone include laser hair removal, Botox, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, leg vein laser treatments and laser skin resurfacing.

Female plastic surgeons outnumbered male surgeons in the number of minimally invasive procedures, but a higher percentage of male plastic surgeons reported having cosmetic procedures compared to the men in the general population, reports American Health and Beauty.

Among the most sought-after surgical procedures by the plastic surgery community were liposuction and breast enhancement procedures.

Prospective patients who are considering plastic or cosmetic surgery may find the results of this survey helpful when making their final decisions. According to the survey, many physicians and surgeons are comfortable with undergoing many of today’s popular minimally invasive procedures such as Botox, lasers skin resurfacing, microdermabrasion and chemical peels. These procedures are readily available at many medical spas and cosmetic surgery centers around the country, and must be performed by a licensed esthetician, doctor or specialist.

Since many physicians have the opportunity to evaluate these procedures in detail before getting the treatment themselves, patients may have more confidence about certain procedures. Still, it’s important to learn as much as possible about the medical center or specialist performing the treatment before getting into the doctor’s chair. Review common questions and answers and learn about how the procedure or treatment works so you can make the most informed decision.

2 in 5 Teen Girls in the UK Want Cosmetic Surgery

According to the results of a new study by the UK’s GoodSurgeonGuide.co.uk, more than two in five girls between the ages of 13 and 16 are considering cosmetic procedures or some type of aesthetic treatment to improve their appearance.

The Good Surgeon Guide surveyed over 1,000 female teens throughout the country about their thoughts on surgery, asking them what major concerns they have about their bodies, what they would most like to change about their appearance, and the main reason why they would go under the knife.

Survey results show that the main reason why girls would consider getting breast implants, weight loss surgery or rhinoplasty would be to increase self-confidence. One in three girls reported that they would feel better about themselves if they could just fix something about their appearance. Others reported that they were influenced by the media and celebrities, or they wanted to change their appearance because they were picked on in school.

The founder of the Good Surgeon Guide commented on the results, indicating that, ““The number of teens that want cosmetic surgery is very alarming and it saddens me to see that a lot feel bullied into considering a procedure. I think this is an issue that definitely needs addressing and is something young people need to learn more about….there are certainly procedures that young people are allowed, such as mole removal and cosmetic dentistry, but however small the procedure, we encourage everyone to do the relevant research…”

Teens in the United Kingdom and the United States are not legally allowed to have plastic or cosmetic surgery without their parent or guardian’s consent, but the numbers of teen surgeries are on the rise as more parents are open to the idea of their child having surgery. Popular procedures for teens in the United States include breast augmentation, ear pinning surgery and rhinoplasty.