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GLP-1: MENOPAUSE IS NOT THE END OF VITALITY

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 17:18:52 GMT

Menopause is not the end of vitality — it’s the beginning of a new chapter!

Let’s get real, ladies! Menopause is an inevitable and agonizing mid-life sentence. At Dr. Goldberg’s practice, we offer individualized, physician-directed GLP-1 therapy designed to help you take back control of your body and feel like yourself again.

Whether you’re struggling with hot flashes, stubborn weight gain, low energy, mood changes, or disrupted sleep, we’re here to help you find lasting relief — and rediscover your best self.

If menopause has disrupted your metabolism, you’re not alone. Our GLP-1 therapy, starting at just $299/month, supports healthy, sustainable weight loss by reducing appetite, improving insulin sensitivity, and optimizing how your body processes food. It’s a safe, effective way to reshape not just your body — but your confidence.

Feel balanced. Feel revitalized. Feel like you again.

A New Frontier in Menopause Care: GLP-1 Agonists & Micro-dosing

Luckily, there are new and transformative methods to circumvent the symptoms we all hate: hot flashes, night sweats, weight gain, brain fog, mood swings, disrupted sleep, and decreased libido. While menopause is universal, the intensity of symptoms don’t have to be!

Emerging research and clinical practice are revealing promising benefits of GLP-1 receptor agonists—a class of medications originally developed for diabetes and weight management—in supporting women through menopause and perimenopause. By targeting metabolic, inflammatory, and hormonal pathways, GLP-1 agonists may help address some of the most challenging symptoms of menopause, including weight gain, insulin resistance, brain fog, and mood shifts.

Even more intriguing is the potential of micro-dosing protocols, which use lower, more targeted doses of GLP-1 medications. These approaches may reduce side effects of menopausal hormonal shifts while still delivering benefits such as appetite regulation, improved energy balance, and reduced systemic inflammation.

The intersection of metabolic medicine and women’s health opens the door to innovative, personalized care strategies for navigating menopause with greater ease and resilience.

The Scientific Explanation for Alleviating your Symptoms:

1. Weight Gain & Increased Visceral Fat

How GLP-1 Helps: GLP-1 agonists reduce appetite, slow gastric emptying, and improve insulin sensitivity, which can help counter the midlife metabolic slowdown and abdominal fat accumulation commonly seen in menopause.
Why It Matters: Estrogen decline during menopause shifts fat storage from hips and thighs to the abdomen, increasing cardiometabolic risk. GLP-1s can reverse or blunt this trend.

2. Insulin Resistance & Blood Sugar Fluctuations

How GLP-1 Helps: These drugs increase insulin secretion and reduce glucagon, improving overall glycemic control. This is especially helpful as menopause raises the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Why It Matters: The drop in estrogen contributes to insulin resistance. GLP-1s help restore glucose metabolism balance.

3. Brain Fog, Mood Changes, and Anxiety

How GLP-1 May Help: There's growing evidence that GLP-1s may have neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects in the brain. Some users report improved mood, clarity, and reduced anxiety. Clinical data is still emerging.
Why It Matters: Estrogen plays a role in brain function, so its decline can cause cognitive and emotional shifts. GLP-1s may mitigate some of this via improved metabolic and neuroinflammatory regulation.

4. Fatigue & Low Energy

How GLP-1 Helps: By stabilizing blood sugar and reducing post-meal crashes, GLP-1s may improve your energy level. Also, weight loss and better sleep contribute to feeling more energized!
Why It Matters: Fatigue is a major and under-addressed symptom of menopause; metabolic support can help restore energy balance.

5. Chronic Inflammation

How GLP-1 Helps: These drugs have anti-inflammatory effects, potentially lowering CRP and other markers of systemic inflammation.
Why It Matters: Menopause is linked to increased low-grade inflammation, which accelerates aging and worsens symptoms. GLP-1s may reduce this burden.

While not a replacement for hormone therapy, GLP-1 agonists offer a novel, non-hormonal approach to managing menopause symptoms, especially those related to metabolism, mood, and inflammation. Techniques like micro-dosing may make this even more accessible, offering great benefits with fewer side effects!

FEATURE CASE OF THE MONTH: BREAST REDUCTION & LIFT FOR ASSYMETRY CORRECTION

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 22:30:47 GMT

This month’s spotlight is on a 20-year-old woman who sought improvement for breast asymmetry and excess size . Her left breast was one cup size larger than her right, leading to discomfort and dissatisfaction with her appearance. She desired smaller, lifted, and more symmetrical breasts while maintaining a natural shape and youthful cleavage .

The Procedure

Dr. Goldberg performed the Goldberg’s Superior-Medial Pedicle Breast Reduction , a specialized technique that:
- Removes excess breast tissue from the side and underside
- Preserves fullness in the upper and inner breast for a natural look
- Enhances cleavage while minimizing visible scarring

Before & After Results (4 Months Post-Surgery)

- Balanced & lifted breasts with improved symmetry
- Smaller, youthful nipples for a rejuvenated appearance
- Natural, long-lasting results with hidden scars

This patient is thrilled with her transformation , enjoying newfound confidence and comfort. If you're considering a breast reduction and lift , schedule a consultation with Dr. Goldberg today!

#GoldbergTechnique #BreastReduction #BreastLift #BeforeAndAfter #BreastAsymmetry #PlasticSurgeryResults

SAY GOODBYE TO IMPLANTS, HELLO TO NATURAL FULLNESS: YOUR OPTIONS FOR BREAST IMPLANT REMOVAL

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 20:50:37 GMT

Are you considering breast implant removal options but still want natural breast enhancement after implants? Do you wonder what your breasts will look like without implants? If so, you're not alone—and there are solutions to help you achieve a beautiful, natural shape.

Embracing Your Body at Every Stage

As we enter our 50s and 60s, we become more in tune with our bodies, appreciating the journeys they’ve carried us through—whether it’s childbirth, breastfeeding, or simply the ups and downs of life. Over time, some women find that breast implants no longer feel right. They may seem like a foreign material that no longer aligns with their bodies, prompting the decision to remove them and seek a more natural alternative.

However, many women feel uncertain about breast explant surgery and how their breasts will look post-explant. Will they be saggy? Will they still have cleavage? These concerns are valid because, at any stage of life, we want to feel confident, empowered, and beautiful in our own skin.

The good news? There are several breast implant removal options that allow women to maintain fullness and a natural shape using their own tissue.

Your Options for Breast Implant Removal with Natural Fullness

Option 1: Breast Implant Removal with Local Breast Tissue Rearrangement

If you have a good amount of breast tissue with some skin laxity, this technique could be ideal for achieving natural breast enhancement after implants .

The procedure involves removing the implants through a small incision in the breast fold.
Dr. Goldberg then uses the lower breast tissue to enhance fullness and create natural cleavage.
This method offers a soft, natural result without the need for artificial implants.

Option 2: Breast Implant Removal with Lateral Chest Fat Transfer

For women who do not have enough breast tissue for the first option, this approach utilizes excess fat from the sides of the chest to restore fullness after breast explant surgery with flap transfer (living fat tissue) .

Many women in their 50s and 60s have loose tissue on the lateral side of the breasts.
This excess fatty tissue is repositioned into the breast to restore volume and projection. The benefit of this technique is that the tissue is a living tissue which is different than fat transfer . It is simply a superior technique.
The result? A fuller, natural-looking breast while simultaneously sculpting the sides for a sleeker contour—truly a win-win!

Option 3: Breast Implant Removal with Abdominal Tissue Transfer (DIEP Flap Reconstruction)

This is the ultimate solution for women seeking a full-body transformation while achieving breast reconstruction after implant removal .

Dr. Goldberg removes excess lower abdominal tissue and repurposes it as living tissue to reconstruct the breasts.
This technique provides long-lasting fullness while also improving abdominal contour—similar to a tummy tuck, but with the added benefit of breast reconstruction.
It’s a fantastic option for women experiencing issues like Breast Implant Illness (BII), recurring capsular contracture, or those desiring a "natural" mommy makeover.

Your Journey to Natural Confidence

If you're ready to say goodbye to implants and hello to natural breast enhancement after implants , you're not limited to just one approach. With modern techniques like breast explant surgery with microsurgical flap transfer , you can achieve a youthful, confident look that aligns with your body’s natural beauty.

Dr. Goldberg specializes in breast reconstruction after implant removal and natural enhancement techniques, helping women regain confidence and comfort in their bodies.

�� Ready to explore your options? Schedule a consultation today to discuss the best breast implant removal options for you!

WHAT IS A LUMBAR ARTERY PERFORATOR FLAP IN BREAST RECONSTRUCTION

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 08:21:02 GMT

Lumbar Artery Perforator Flap (LAP) is flap composed of fatty tissue and skin harvested from the lower back also commonly known as the “love handle” or muffin top regions. The lower back for most of both women and men is often where we carry thick fatty tissue. Also, the fat in this region is often thicker but still soft which allows it to mold and form into a shape that is like a breast implant. This makes the lower back an ideal location to harvest the flap for breast reconstruction.

The LAP flap blood supply also known as the pedicle, is small and short compared to other popular flaps such as the DIEP flap. Because of its small blood vessel and short pedicle, we often lengthen and enlarge its pedicle with a vascular graft. Our vascular graft of choice is harvested from either the lateral chest (thoracodorsal pedicle) or the groin (DIEP pedicle).

The LAP flap has grown in popularity in recent years due to the intrinsic flap properties listed above (thick and soft fatty tissue) and donor site contour. Patient has a well-hidden lower back scar and an improve contour of the lower back and buttocks as well as abdomen. Only a few microsurgeries center around the world are offering this reconstructive technique for breast reconstructions. At Goldberg Plastic Surgery, we have been offering the Lumbar artery perforator flap to our patients. It has become our second flap of choice in autologous breast reconstruction.

Who is the ideal candidate for the Lumbar artery perforator (LAP) flap in breast reconstruction?

Patients who are the best candidate for Lumbar artery perforator flap (LAP) are

BRCA positive young women who seek immediate reconstruction after prophylactic mastectomy. In these women, they lack the sufficient below the belly button bulk for bilateral reconstruction. However, most have sufficient lower back fat that will yield sufficient flap size to create B or even C cup breasts.
Women who have had previous abdominoplasty or have severe scarring to the abdominal wall because of surgery or liposuction.
Women who have previously had a DIEP flap for one side breast reconstruction and now develop a cancer in another breast. These patients are often being told that they are no longer a candidate for autologous tissue reconstruction. At Goldberg plastic surgery, we are offering LAP flap to these patients.

How long does the lumbar artery perforator flap take?

A breast reconstruction revision with a lumbar artery perforator flap normally takes anywhere from 5 hour/ breast to 7 hours /breast. A woman undergoing bilateral breast reconstruction with the LAP flap normally takes about 10 to 14 hours. It is usually slightly longer than a typical DIEP flap reconstruction due to both repositioning a patient during surgery and the additional micro surgery required to lengthen the pedicle of the flap. The length of the surgery does not mean that it is dangerous. The surgery is very safe. The pain level for this procedure is much less compare to the DIEP flap surgery.

What is the recovery from a LAP flap look like?

The recovery after a lumbar artery perforator flap is relatively pain free. The patient will stay in the hospital usually for 3 to 4 days for flap monitoring. You can walk immediately after the surgery. You will feel tightness in the lower back over the buttock. The pain level is low compare to patients undergoing DIEP flap reconstructions. You will have usually anywhere from 4 to 6 drains. The 2 drains in each vascular graft site can come out before discharge from the hospital. The drains in each breast will stay in for one week. The drains in the lower back will usually stay in for 2 to 3 weeks to prevent seroma formation (fluid collection). The patient is refrained from heavy lifting for 4 weeks. The patient can return back to work after 4 weeks.

The lumbar tery perforator free flap is an excellent alternative in autologous breast reconstruction for those patients who are not eligible for the DIEP flap. The recovery is faster. The donor site scar is well hidden below the waistline. Furthermore, the patient will have an improve contour to the lower back, buttocks and abdomen.

Dr. Goldberg is a breasts reconstructive plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills, California specializing in the Lumbar Artery perforator Flap and other state-of-the-art breast reconstruction procedures . Our office will work with different insurance plan for our patients across and outside the US. Please call 310-325-0310 to learn more about your breast reconstruction options.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FAT GRAFT VERSUS A FLAP IN BREAST RECONSTRUCTION?

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 13:46:42 GMT

3 Minute Read:

These two options are quite different. Fat grafting is a method of transferring small amount of fat into a breast, layer by layer. The fat cells survive by vascular ingrowth from the wound bed. This is a very useful technique to improve contour of the reconstructed breast and thickness of the mastectomy skin flap. It also provides a small improvement in the volume of the reconstructed breast.

However, the recipient bed must be a healthy and well vascularized field for the fat graft to take. In a radiated breast, the skin is fibrotic — often hard — and the vascular blood supply is compromised. If the fat cells do not get new vascular ingrowth from the wound bed, the body will clear these fat cells in a process call resorption.

The rates of resorption in fat transfer are from 50 to 70%.

For example, a transfer fat volume of 200 cc, only 100cc (50%) of the transferred fat cell will survive in the procedure. Therefore, fat grafting technique is mainly used to improve contour of a reconstructed breasts with a minor improvement of volume. It is not meant as a technique to rebuild an entire breast.

There are complications from fat grafting, such as painful fat necrosis, fat cyst oil, uneven contour, and infection from fat necrosis.

Fascial cutaneous flap is a technique of transporting a large amount of tissue composing of skin and subcutaneous fat with its own nourishing blood vessels to reconstruct a breast. The flap blood supply is hooked up to the recipient chest blood vessels and thus become a living tissue immediately at the time of surgery. It does not depend on the slow vascular ingrowth from the wound bed. The source of the tissue flap can be catered according to the woman’s body habitus. Depend on the location a woman stores her excess skin and fat, the sites become the most suitable donor site for a flap in breast reconstruction. A plastic surgeon also takes into consideration the resultant scar to see whether it will the best donor site for a flap. This is also known as tailored autologous tissue (flap) reconstruction. The most common donor sites for flaps in breast reconstruction are lower abdomen, lower back, the flanks, upper buttocks, and

Call for your tailored autologous breast reconstruction today .

WANT TO LEARN MORE?

Dr. Mytien Goldberg is a leading female plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills who specializes in Breast reconstruction and breast reconstruction revision. Recognized by her peers as one of the most skilled microsurgeon, she is also known for her attention to detail, high-caliber surgical skills and beautiful, natural results. For women seeking breast reconstruction or breast reconstruction revision, Dr. Goldberg offers a wide spectrum of flap reconstruction using different parts of your body to recreate natural breasts including DIEP, SGAP, PAP, LAP flaps and hybrid reconstructions. She has been in practice for over 10 years and is a faculty member with the division of plastic surgery at UCLA David Geffen School of medicine. She was awarded the teacher of the year by UCLA chief residents for her mentorship and teaching.

If you have recently been diagnosed with breast cancer and are looking for a plastic surgeon t o perform your breast reconstruction, Dr. Goldberg is your plastic surgeon.

If you have had breast cancer and are dissatisfied with your reconstruction results, the first step is to schedule a comprehensive in-office consultation with Dr. Goldberg. After the exam, Dr. Goldberg can create an individualized plan to address your specific concerns and answer any questions you may have.

WHAT ARE MY BREAST RECONSTRUCTION OPTIONS AFTER RADIATION?

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 13:46:39 GMT

6 Minute Read:

I received radiation treatment as part of my breast cancer treatment. What is the best breast reconstruction option for me: implant or autologous tissue breast reconstruction?

If you have received radiation as part of your breast cancer treatment, I hope this blog is informative for choosing the best option for your breast reconstruction.

After mastectomy, the goal of breast reconstruction is to recreate an aesthetic breast mound plus or minus the nipple and to establish symmetry with the remaining breast.

WHAT IF I NEED RADIATION THERAPY?

Increasingly, radiation therapy is an important adjunct to breast cancer treatment. The current guidelines for post-mastectomy radiation include patients with breast cancer T3–4 disease and/or those with four or more positive axillary nodes. This therapy is performed because of its proven benefit in loco-regional control and overall survival.

Recent clinical trials on radiation treatment have even shown improvement in overall survival for patients with 1 -3 positive lymph nodes. Thus, more and more breast cancer patients receive post-mastectomy radiation as part of their breast cancer treatments.

WHAT DOES RADIATION DO TO THE BREAST TISSUE?

Although radiation therapy has beneficial effects on overall breast cancer survival, it has negative impacts on the chest wall and soft breast tissue.

Radiation causes damage at the DNA level, affecting the elasticity of the skin and impairing its healing ability.

Traditionally, breast reconstruction in patients who receive post-mastectomy radiation is delayed autologous breast reconstruction .

WHAT DO STUDIES SAY?

In recent years, implant reconstruction rates in the United States have risen in the irradiated patient population. A recent data analysis on immediate reconstruction trends among irradiated patients found a steady increase in implant-only reconstruction, from 27 percent to 52 percent. At the same time, there is a decrease in autologous tissue reconstruction in irradiated patients from 56 percent to 32 percent.

Even though the rate of implant-based breast reconstruction is on the rise, a large meta-analysis of the national database on patients receiving breast reconstructions showed significant high complication rates in implant-based reconstruction, especially in patients who have received post-mastectomy radiation. This included an overall failure rate of 20% and a 30% implant removal rate.

A clinical study titled, Reconstruction of the irradiated breast: A national claims-based assessment of postoperative morbidity. (M Chetta MD et. al. from University of Michigan, PRS, 139:783, 2017) assessed the morbidity associated with various breast reconstruction techniques in post-mastectomy radiated patients.

The study comprised of 4,781 irradiated patients who met the inclusion criteria. The majority of the patients [n=3846 (80%] received reconstruction with implants. The rest of the patients [n=935(20%] received autologous tissue reconstruction.

The overall complications rate in implant-based reconstruction was 45.3% for patients with implants and 30.8% for patients receiving autologous reconstruction.

Failure of reconstruction (complete loss of reconstruction) is 29.4% in patients with implant-based reconstruction compared with only 4.3% in patients with autologous reconstruction.

When adjusted for risk factors between the two groups of women undergoing breast reconstruction, implant base and autologous reconstruction, the study showed that patients who undergo implant-based reconstruction have twice the odds of having complications compared with those who underwent autologous reconstruction.

In addition, patients with implant-based reconstruction had 11 times the odds of complete failure of the reconstruction compared with women who underwent autologous reconstruction . The highest probability of reconstruction failure was among patients with implant-based delayed reconstruction and pre-reconstruction irradiation. The lower probability of failure of reconstruction was among patients with immediate autologous reconstruction with post-reconstruction irradiation.

Besides having an 11-folds increase in loss of reconstruction due to infection or implant extrusion, a significant number of women with chest wall radiation and implant-based breast reconstruction suffer from long-term capsular contracture, significant breast asymmetry, pain, and scar tissue.

Often patients with breast radiation and autologous tissue breast reconstruction were not discussed as an option during their breast reconstruction consult with a plastic surgeon. This is because the fact that their plastic surgeon does not offer autologous tissue or the false belief by many plastic surgeons that fat grafting or the use of ADM (acellular dermal matrix) prevents capsular contracture in irradiated patients. Scientific data does not support this belief.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO BEFORE YOUR RECONSTRUCTION?

It is important to seek a consultation with a plastic surgeon who offers both implant and autologous tissue options for your breast reconstruction. He or she should discuss both the pros and cons discussed for both options during your consultation.

If you suffer from prolonged capsular contracture, breast asymmetry, or pain from implant-based breast reconstruction and wish to have your implant convert to your own natural tissue, autologous tissue breast reconstruction is the best option. With the advancement in microsurgery in recent years, we are now able to offer a variety of options for autologous tissue reconstruction besides the DIEP flaps . These options include the lower back (lumbar perforator (LP) flap, profunda artery perforator (PAP) flap , superior gluteal artery perforator flap (SGAP) , and upper back thoracodorsal perforator flap (TDAP). We are embarking on a new era of microsurgery breast reconstruction whereby we tailor our reconstruction options according to the patient’s body habitus (available tissue). It is no longer a prolonged surgery but a relatively fast surgery with a minimal recovery period. The results from autologous tissue reconstruction are long lasting, aesthetically beautiful, and natural.

CONTACT DR. GOLDBERG FOR YOUR BREAST RECONSTRUCTION

Dr. Mytien Goldberg is a leading female plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills who specializes in breast reconstruction and breast reconstruction revision. Recognized by her peers as one of the most skilled microsurgeon, she is also known for her attention to detail, high-caliber surgical skills, and beautiful, natural results. For women seeking breast reconstruction or breast reconstruction revision, Dr. Goldberg offers a wide spectrum of flap reconstruction using different parts of your body to recreate natural breasts, including DIEP, SGAP, PAP, LAP flaps and hybrid reconstructions. She has been in practice for over 10 years and is a faculty member with the division of plastic surgery at UCLA David Geffen School of medicine. She was awarded the teacher of the year by UCLA chief residents for her mentorship and teaching.

If you are recently diagnosed with breast cancer and are looking for a plastic surgeon to perform your breast reconstruction, Dr. Goldberg is your plastic surgeon. And if you have had breast cancer and are dissatisfied with your reconstruction results, the first step is to schedule a comprehensive in-office consultation with Dr. Goldberg. After the exam, Dr. Goldberg can create an individualized plan to address your specific concerns and answer any questions you may have.

For many women in southern California and around the country, Dr. Mytien Goldberg is the plastic surgeon of choice for breast reconstruction, revision, and correction procedures.

WHAT IS A BREAST LIFT?

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:05:29 GMT

A breast lift is a surgical procedure that raises the breasts and restores their firmness and youthful appearance. It can be done with or without breast implants.

As a woman ages, her breasts may sag due to a natural loss of skin elasticity, pregnancy, breast feeding, weight changes, and gravity. Breast sagging is completely natural, but it’s also reversible with a breast lift.

You might be asking, what is a breast lift and how does it differ from breast implants? Breast implants make the breasts bigger and, by default, they can fill up any excess skin to cause the breasts to lift. A breast lift is a procedure that has the specific goal of raising the breasts, usually using the existing tissue. Implants are not necessary for a breast lift, though some women may choose to get them.

A breast lift without implants is for women who are comfortable with the size of their breasts or women who would like a small reduction in their cup size.

This procedure is also called mastopexy. During surgery, the doctor removes excess skin and tightens the surrounding tissue to reshape and support the new breast contour. The volume of the breast that fills a bra is left in tact, but their shape and position will be noticeably improved.

A breast lift may be part of a ‘mommy makeover’ to reverse the affects of pregnancy and breastfeeding on a woman’s body. Since no implant is added during mastopexy, the results can be quite natural looking.

Every woman is different. An individualized approach is taken for each patient to ultimately give her back youthful, firmer breasts.

I HAVE A DEFLATED BREAST IMPLANT, WHAT SHOULD I DO NOW?

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:05:23 GMT

Saline breast implant deflation occurs on average 4.3 to 6% at 10 years. A Study on silicone rupture rate (Inamed Silicone Breast Implant Core Study Results at 6 Years rupture rate published in Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery: December 2007 – Volume 120 – Issue ) was 3.5 percent overall at 6 year. Overall, the rupture rate of both silicone and saline implants are equivalent. The difference is detection of rupture. For saline implants, the rupture is detectable by the patient and physician almost immediately. However in case of silicone implants, the rupture is silent. It would require a radiographic study such as MRI or an ultrasound to detect silicone implant rupture. Retrospective study showed untreated silicone gel fill implants are harmless conditions (Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery: July 2004 – Volume 114 – Issue 1). Unlike a silicone implant, saline implant ruptures result in an immediate deflation of the implant and skin envelope of the breast. If the deflation goes untreated, the breast skin envelope would retract back while the other breast envelope continues to be expanded. Over time, you would have significant asymmetry in your breast that may require additional procedure to the unaffected breast such as a lift. Therefore, if you have breast implants and note any changes in your breast shape or size, you should consult your plastic surgeon soon for diagnosis and treatment.

If it is a breast implant rupture, the two major breast implant manufacturers in the United States (Allergan and Mentor) provide a lifetime warranty for all of their implants. If an implant fails or ruptures during the first 10 years, both companies will provide a new implant and $1200 applicable toward operating room and anesthesia costs which can be upgraded to an extended plan providing up to $2400 for a small fee prior to surgery. All implants have a lifetime guarantee and will be replaced by the manufacturer if the problem is related to the implant.

WHAT IS THE MOST COMMON COSMETIC SURGERY PROCEDURE IN THE US IN 2011?

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:05:21 GMT

In America and throughout the world, both men and women are expected to look healthy and young well into their 30’s, 40’s, 50’ and 60’s. While diet and exercise can play a large role in looking younger, the use of modern cosmetic surgery has become one of the most popular ways to beat back the clock. Getting surgical cosmetic procedures has become very commonplace, with an ever-growing percentage of the population opting in to get cosmetic surgery. Yet there is a large divide between women and men, and what procedures are most popular for each of the sexes.

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons today released top line data from its 2011 plastic Surgery Statistics Report. The latest data shows breast augmentation is still the most common cosmetic surgery procedure for 2011. There were 307, 180 breast augmentation procedures performed in 2011, up 3.7% since 2010. Many of the common signs of aging that occur to a woman’s breasts as she gets older can be very devastating to her self esteem. Yet with today’s modern surgical options, there is a viable option for women to change the way they look.

Second to breast augmentation, rhinoplasty is the most popular cosmetic procedure, with a total of 243,772 procedures being performed in 2011. The growing number of cosmetic procedures is an indication that even in this tough economic climate, more consumers are choosing cosmetic surgery as a way to look younger and feel better about themselves. We certainly see the same trend in our practice. More and more women are seeking improvements in their look. We support this trend as many of these procedures equate to improvements in their overall self-confidence and quality of life.

FACE LIFT SURGERY CAN ERASE AN AVERAGE 7 YEARS OFF YOUR AGE

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:05:17 GMT

A new study published in the Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery in February 2012, looks at perceived age after facial plastic surgery. This novel study attempts to quantify the degree of perceived age change after facial plastic surgical procedures . A total of 60 patients were enrolled in the study and divided into 3 groups: Group 1 patients had only facelift and neck lift (total of 22 patients); Group 2 patients had facelift, neck lift, upper and lower eyelid surgery (total 19 patients); and Group 3 patients had facelift, neck lift, upper and lower eyelid surgery, and brow lift (total 21 patients). The investigators then asked a group of first year medical student to estimate the patient’s age based on the Before and After pictures of each patient. The researchers tried to standardize the photographs by asking participants to not wear makeup.

The researchers found that on average, the raters estimated that the patients looked 1.7 years younger than their actual age before surgery, and 8.9 years younger afterward. On average, the estimated age dipped by 5.7 years in group 1 (patients with neck and face lift), and by 8.4 years in the third group (patients with neck, face lift, upper and lower eyelid and brow lift). Therefore, the author of the study concludes that facial rejuvenation surgeries demonstrate a significant and consistent reduction in perceived age. This effect is more substantial when the number of surgical procedures is increase.

The desire to improve one’s physical presentation and to maintain a youthful appearance is intrinsic in our evolution. Physical appearance and how we are perceived by others have implications for social and psychological functioning, as well as our sense of well-being, self-esteem, and self-confidence. Before you seek to have plastic surgery procedures, do your homework and check that the doctor is board-certified in plastic surgery. There is a lot of white-coat deception. Virtually any kind of doctor legally claims to be a plastic surgeon without any formal training in plastic surgery. As a board certified plastic surgeon, I have seen increasing numbers of patients who present with complications and unsatisfactory outcomes after having procedures done by non board certified plastic surgeon.

IS THERE SUCH A THING AS TOO MUCH OF A GOOD THING?

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:05:13 GMT

Today’s society is one in which we can never seem to get enough. Everything is bigger, better, faster, and stronger. But what happens when you are blessed with too much of a good thing? While many women desire an increase in breast size, there are those who feel uncomfortable with size of their breasts. If a woman has large breasts, she may be considering breast reduction surgery for many reasons. Aside from feeling more comfortable in their bras and clothing, breast reduction surgery can help alleviate any number of symptoms. Women with large breasts often suffer from chronic back and neck and shoulder pain, chronic rashes and skin irritation under the breasts, deep grooves in the shoulders from bra strap pressure, poor posture and restricted activity, as well as poor self-image due to large breasts. Breast reduction surgery, also known as reduction mammoplasty, removes excess breast fat, glandular tissue and skin to help achieve a breast size that’s more proportionate to a woman’s body, as well as helping to alleviate the symptoms associated with overly large breasts.

So who is breast reduction surgery for?

Women of all ages have been known to have breast reduction surgery, even young women in their teens; however it’s strongly recommended that the patient wait until they are past the age of development. If a woman hasn’t started a family yet, or is still in the stages of family planning, it may be best for her to wait until pregnancy isn’t an issue yet, as pregnancy can change breast tissue. Results can be seen immediately, but it’s best to keep in mind that it can take months for the swelling to completely diminish and for the surgical scars to fade. For anyone considering breast reconstruction surgery, consult a Board Certified plastic surgeon. This is a very personalized procedure, and it’s
important to understand everything that breast reduction surgery encompasses, including possible risks and complications, as well as set realistic expectations.

I have insurance. Does that cover any of my procedure costs?

If a patient has a history of chronic conditions, such as back, neck, or shoulder pain, or chronic skin conditions such as rashes or skin irritation in the breast issue, having a breast reduction may be considered medically necessary and is covered by most insurance plans. If approved, this means the patient’s insurance would cover the cost of the surgeon’s fee, as well as the cost of the facility and anesthesiologist. This is something that should be discussed and documented during a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon.

http://www.plasticsurgery.org/reconstructive-procedures/breast-reduction.html

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/breast-reduction-surgery/MY00778

CAN BREAST IMPLANTS ACHIEVE SOME LIFTING OF SAGGING BREASTS?

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:05:09 GMT

Do Breast Implants Lift

There are many cosmetic surgery procedures commonly performed on the breasts and those who have not researched them before are often unfamiliar with what each procedure is intended to address. We were recently asked if breast implants can achieve some lifting of sagging breasts. In truth, women with sagging breasts are facing an issue of excess skin, which is often caused by fluctuations in weight, aging and gravity or the trauma of childbirth and breastfeeding.

An implant will indeed make the breast larger, but the amount of excess skin commonly concerning women who consider their breasts to be sagging is generally much more skin than would be occupied by a reasonable sized implant. Furthermore if an implant is added to sagging breasts in which the nipple is facing downward, the location and direction of the nipple will remain in nearly the same position and orientation even afterwards.

A breast lift is a procedure in which the skin of the breasts is first pulled taught. After which the excess skin is removed and the nipple is relocated at the proper level and angle to assure that the breast appears balanced and youthful. Although a breast lift makes the breast look more youthful, smooth and firm it will often make the breast appear slightly smaller because of the excess skin being removed.

While breast implants alone cannot full address concerns of sagging breasts, breast lift procedures are specifically designed to address sagging breasts. One popular option that many women who are concerned with both sagging breasts and the current or post-op breast size now choose is to have a breast lift with breast implants , which can be done in one procedure or the two can be done separately. This allows patients to increase the size of the breasts while simultaneously addressing the issue of saggy breasts.

Breast implants alone, even large ones, will likely not prevent sag in breasts that are already sagging. Sagging breasts should be treated with a breast lift but can include implants. A breast lift with breast implants is a great option for those who are afraid of losing mass or cup sizes after a breast lift and for those who would like slightly larger breasts as well as a firmer and fuller shape free of sag.

HOW IS THE BREAST REDUCTION PROCEDURE DONE?

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:05:07 GMT

Breast Reduction Surgery

Breast reduction surgery is a surgical method of reducing the size of the breasts. A breast reduction procedure is most commonly performed for women who have breasts that are too large in relation to their body frame, women who have shoulder, neck or back problems caused by the weight of the breasts, women who are restricted from physical activity due to the size of the breasts, and for women whose breasts are large enough to cause body image and self-esteem issues. Breast reduction can attend to one or both breasts if they are disproportional or if they differ in size.

Breast reduction surgery is available to any patient whose breasts have completed physical maturation. One of the most significant factors involving the size and shape of the breasts is pregnancy and breast-feeding which can dramatically change the shape and size of the breast and some doctors may recommend waiting until after childbirth, although this is not a rule. Patients should also be in good physical health and be non-smokers. Patients who regularly smoke and wish to undergo breast reduction surgery may be asked to quit for several months before and after the procedure. Patients will also need to refrain from the use of Aspirin and other anti-inflammatory drugs that thin the blood and can cause a risk of bleeding during surgery.

How is the breast reduction procedure done?

During a breast reduction procedure, the surgeon will make 3 main incisions and generally they are all that are necessary. The first incision runs from the areola down to the base of the breast. The second incision runs along the underside of the breast and follows the curve of the breast. The final incision traces the aureola so that the nipple can be repositioned after breast tissue has been removed. The nipples remain connected to the underlying tissues in an effort to retain function and sensation. The size of the aureola can also be reduced before repositioning to help balance the proportion between the size of the breast and the nipple. Be sure talk with your surgeon about any future plans to have children and express any concerns regarding breast function.

A breast reduction procedure can be performed in a hospital or at a surgical center and takes anywhere from 2-4 hours on average. During this time the patient will remain under general anesthesia to prevent pain and will not feel or remember anything. Although a breast reduction is a major surgery, it is usually considered an outpatient procedure, meaning patients are allowed to return home afterwards and do not necessarily require an overnight stay. Some patients choose to stay at a post surgical recovery center the first night after surgery to make sure they get the optimal care and attention available.

There are multiple variations on procedures and a surgeon will be able to determine what is best for each patient.

The most important thing patients can do to make sure surgery provides the best results is to stay healthy in the weeks and months leading up to surgery, and get plenty of rest and take care of the body afterwards. It is vitally important to follow the advice of the surgeons as closely as possible and not to rush back to strenuous activities. Most patients are able move about after several days and with the help of post-surgical compression bras may be able to return to work in around 2 weeks with the approval of the surgeon during check ups. Vigorous activities should initially be avoided but should slowly be eased into as advised by surgeons. While the breast will be very swollen and tender for at least the first couple of weeks, swelling and discomfort will subside fully over the course of several months and patients will be able to return to wearing normal bras and finally get an idea of what the final outcome will be.

RECOVERING FROM BREAST REDUCTION SURGERY

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:05:03 GMT

As a surgeon specializing in breast augmentation and breast reduction surgery, it is common to see women who go into surgery thrilled and excited to achieve breasts with which they will be more satisfied come back after several weeks disappointed that healing can seem like such a long process. To be certain, breast reduction is considered a major surgery. The time spent in the surgical operating room is important, but time spent recovering can be just as critical to a patient’s success. Doctors understand the significance of allowing the body sufficient time to repair an heal itself and how important the patient’s role is in providing their own body sufficient rest and nutrition.

So What Is The Recovery Like After Breast Reduction Surgery?

Because breast reduction surgery involves the removal of tissue through cutting or liposuction techniques there is a reasonable amount of trauma to the breast that typically leads to an amount of bruising. Patients can generally expect to need several days of bed rest before they feel well enough to move around without assistance. Depending on your surgical provider and where your procedures are performed you may or may not be offered an overnight stay for observation. Breast reduction surgery is considered an outpatient procedure from which patients may return home immediately. If your provider does not offer overnight observation you may wish to contact a post surgical recovery center where patients can stay overnight to receive professional medical attention following their surgery.

Patients will wear surgical dressings after the procedure and for several days until a follow-up appointment during which your doctor will remove your dressings, check your progress and put patients into a compression bra. A compression bra will help improve circulation, relieve swelling, and keep the breasts from moving and causing discomfort. At your follow-up, your doctor will also check how your breasts are healing and tell advise you on how to continue your recovery. Some patients may be able to return to work in as few as 2 weeks, but each patient’s body is different and you should follow your doctor’s recommendations based on your body’s ability to heal.

Patients are advised to return to normal activities, such as walking and using stairs slowly. Rigorous activities such as running, weight lifting, and bicycling should be avoided until your physician gives you permission to return to them during subsequent follow-up appointments. For patients of breast reduction surgery it is critically important to refrain from lifting the arms over the head, lifting heavy objects and bending over for at least 1-2 months after surgery. Most patients are able to return to their normal lifestyle after 2-3 months.

Patients should refrain from all drug and alcohol use, including cigarettes, until a physician determines that they resume use. Patients must also refrain from using anti-inflammatory drugs including Aspirin and Ibuprofen, which thin blood and can lead to blood loss. Your physician will provide prescription painkillers along with a treatment of antibiotics – both should be taken as directed by your doctor.

Although the guidelines here represent common recovery times, they should not be mistaken as medical advice, and should be taken only as reference. Your physician will schedule a number of follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and progress over the weeks and months following your procedure, usually including a 1-year follow-up to check you final progress after you are, more or less, fully recovered. Your physician will advise you based on your body and your unique ability to heal and give you personalized attention and advice.

ABDOMINAL FAT REMOVAL PROCEDURES IMPROVE PATIENT’S OVERALL QUALITY OF LIFE

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:05:01 GMT

A recent study published in the April issue of Journal of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, reports significant improvements in self-esteem and quality of life in patients who had cosmetic liposuction and/or abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) . The lead author of the study, Dr. Eric Swanson, a plastic surgeon in Leawood, Kansas, examined the quality of life in 360 patients who had undergone liposuction and/or abdominoplasty to remove excess abdominal fat. Even though liposuction and abdominoplasty are among the most frequently performed cosmetic surgery procedures, few studies have formally evaluated their impact on quality of life and other patient-reported outcome. This is the first study of its kind looking at the quality of life outcome in patients who have had cosmetic surgery procedures. It shows that a significant number of patients, greater than 85% of patients, report an overall improvement in quality of life and sense of self esteem.

Of the 360 patients in the study, 60 percent of patients had liposuction alone, 35 percent had combination of liposuction and abdominoplasty, and 5 percent with abdominoplasty alone. The majority of the patients were women with average age of 42 years old (85% women) and thirty percent of patients had other cosmetic plastic surgery procedures (such as facelift or breast augmentation) at the same time with the fat removal procedure.

Of the 360 patients in this study, patients with liposuction alone had shorter recovery times: average time off work was about 6 days compared to 16 days of for patients who had an abdominoplasty. The liposuction-only patients also had less discomfort: average pain score 6 out of 10, compared to 7.5 for those undergoing abdominoplasty.

In terms of patient satisfaction, patients undergoing abdominoplasty rated their cosmetic outcomes higher than others: average score 9 out of 10, compared to 8 out of 10 with lipsuction only. Liposuction plus abdominoplasty produced the highest patient satisfaction with over 99 percent of satisfaction with no increase in pain compared with abdominoplasty alone. Ninety eight percent of patients undergoing liposuction plus abdominoplasty said they would undergo the procedure again and would also recommend to their family and friends.

In terms of quality of life and overall self esteem, 86% of patients reported an improved sense of self-esteem and reported improved quality of life.

WILL I HAVE TO RECEIVE MAMMOGRAMS MORE OFTEN AFTER I GET BREAST IMPLANTS?

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:04:59 GMT

Some patients who are eager to get breast implants do not take the time to learn exactly what measures of precaution and after-care they will need to implement in their schedule. However, after the healing process, women with breast implants are generally advised to follow the same breast-care guidelines that women without breast implants should follow. This includes monthly self-examinations and regular mammograms.

There is no evidence that implants play any notable role in preventing mammography efforts from being effective. Radiologists have said that it may take longer to read mammograms of patients with implants; however, the test remains equally as effective as a preventative measure. Women with breast implants may need to have mammography shots taken from multiple angles. It may also take the radiologist longer to assess the results. A properly performed mammogram for patients with breast implants should not squeeze the implants excessively, but should apply adequate pressure to keep the breast from moving. Many patients actually report that having a mammogram after receiving breast implants is less painful than the procedure had been before receiving breast implants.

Breast implants can also lead to small calcium deposits formed along with scar tissues around the implant. Because these calcifications may show up on the reading radiologists must spend more time interpreting the results. At the same time, one of the advantages of having breast implants is that self-breast examinations can be far easier . Feeling even small lumps against the round and smooth surface of the implant is far easier than without implants.

There are portions of the breast that even on women without implants, can be difficult to capture on a mammogram. The tissues that sit behind the breasts and against the ribs and musculature are the most difficult to capture regardless of the size of the breast. Some have raised the question of the possibility of breast implants actually making more breast tissue visible on mammograms due to the position of implants behind the breast tissue itself, separating it slightly from the chest wall. In most patients, roughly 5% – 10% of the tissues cannot be seen on a mammogram regardless of whether or not the patient has implants.

Women with breast implants should be seen just as often for mammograms as those without implants and these women should be sure to inform the mammography technician that they do have breast implants . The technician will then need to manipulate the breast and implants carefully so that the machine is sure to effectively register the patient’s natural breast tissue.

HOW DO PATIENTS DECIDE BETWEEN SILICONE AND SALINE BREAST IMPLANTS?

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:04:56 GMT

Women who are considering breast implants are always faced with the question of which type of implants to choose. In the US there are only two types of breast implants approved by the FDA. Patients are asked to make a decision between the two types of implants although they may have very little information regarding the differences. Both silicone and saline breast implants are housed in an outer silicone shell, but what’s inside that silicone shell can affect the way the implants sit, how they move, how long they last, and can even alter the overall price, even if only slightly.

Both saline and silicone breast implants are considered safe, and there are ongoing studies that continue to monitor the long-term effects of breast implants in order to maintain the highest level of safety. The silicone shell of saline breast implants is filled with a saline solution that some proponents argue is safer than silicone in the event of a rupture. However, the FDA has determined that there is insufficient evidence to link silicone to any hazardous effects. In the event of a ruptured saline implant the saline solution is generally absorbed into the body without incident, but the breast will rapidly lose volume and begin to change shape. The shell of silicone breast implants can be filled in several ways. One common silicone implant is filled with silicone gel while the alternative silicone implant has layers of softer silicone that is not gel but is quite soft and natural. The different fillers give each implant a unique feel and consistency. While each implant is safe, many women prefer the texture and consistency of silicone implants and silicone’s ability to create a more natural feeling breast. In the event that a silicone implant ruptures, the silicone will generally leak into the body much more slowly than a saline implant. The symptoms, if any, are usually mild discomfort around the breast as well as a similar loss in volume and change in shape to saline implants, but that will occur far slower.

While breast implants are now considered safe, it is important to realize that breast implants do have a shelf life and are expected to wear down after a number of years. For this reason regular scans are recommended and women should expect to encounter necessary maintenance down the road. Women who are seeking breast implants for aesthetic repair from breast cancer surgery should be aware that breast implants can make subsequent operations on tumors more complicated as the surgeon will be faced with maneuvering around the implant itself. It is best to speak with a doctor before making the final decision. Based on your body type and goals, your surgeon may recommend one breast implant over the other, but the final say will be yours.

BREAST IMPLANT REMOVAL

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:04:53 GMT

Because breast implants are not life time devices, the longer you have your implants, the more likely it will be for you to have them removed for many of the following reasons

Dissatisfaction with size
Unacceptable cosmetic result
Complication such as severe capsular contracture.

Having you implants removed and replaced will increase your chances of getting future complications. In Mentor’s Core study, 5% of patients who underwent primary augmentation (first time breast augmentation) had their implants removed in the first 3 years of surgery. The most common reasons cited for removal of implant were capsular contracture and patient’s decision. For patients who underwent revision augmentation surgery (revised breast surgery) , implant removal rate is higher at 12% in the first 3 years after surgery.

Most women who have their implants removed have them replaced with new implants but some do not. If you do not choose to have your implant replaced, you may have cosmetically unacceptable results such as dimpling, wrinkling, puckering, and sagging of the breast.

After removal of implants, you may be in need of additional procedures such as a breast lift to minimize the undesirable effects of implant removal. For example, one of my patients had very large breast augmentation and periareolar mastopexy (or breast lifts around the nipple) when she was in her twenties. Later in her thirties, the patient presented to me desiring smaller breasts. On exam, the patient had enlarged ptotic breasts and nipple areolar complex due to the weight of the breasts implants. Given the patient’s good native breast tissues, I determined that the patient is a candidate for removal of implants and breast lift procedure to give her natural and yourthful breasts.

Therefore implant removal and additional procedures, in most cases, can restore a natural shape breast. It can restore a woman’s natural breasts. This is best discussed

BREAST IMPLANT COST

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:04:51 GMT

In the US, there are three FDA approved breast implants manufacturer. They are Allergan Inc., Mentor I, and recently Sientra Inc. There are two main breast implant types approved by FDA for cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. They are saline and silicone gel implants. The implant shells over outer covers are the same for both the saline and silicone type implants. The shell is made up of silicone elastomer (silicone rubber). For saline implants, the implant is filled with sterile saline.

For silicone gel implants, the implants are filled with silicone gel, which are cross linked silicone particles. Silicone implants are more expensive than saline implants. Silicone implants run on average around $900 per implant and saline implants are approximately $500 per implant. While many women may feel influenced by the price of implants, it is best to look at the results of using different types of implants, as they can give a completely different look. Saline implants have a higher risk of rippling, and can have a harder feel when compared to a silicone implant.

You should have a thorough discussion with your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon as to which implants best suit your need.

WHAT ARE THE ALTERNATIVES TO BREAST AUGMENTATION?

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:04:49 GMT

Shortly after the time when we were little girls playing with our dolls, we all hit puberty and realized that our bodies and our breasts were somehow linked to the concept of our own femininity. For those of us who felt that we came up short during our developing years it can often feel like an endless struggle to find the right push-up bras and the right swimsuits and tank tops to keep our bodies looking in proportion.

The prospect of breast augmentation with use of breast implants has always been in the back of my mind, but I have tried all kinds of alternatives in attempts to get my breasts to grow naturally . I have tried supplements, vacuum bras, creams and even falsies. They all have their strengths and some ability to enhance my figure but they all come with shortcomings as well.

The vacuum bra I used is sold with instructions to be worn for more than half a day, everyday for two and a half months, after which the bra makers claim women might see results. I will be honest and say that I did not make it to the two and a half month mark. I did wear it daily only missing 1-3 days for more than a month. I felt that at that point there should be some indication that my breasts were changing but my breasts felt the same. I was tired of wearing the stupid device and staying home every day, although I do work from home, and I felt cheated for having tried such a ridiculous approach and having worn the thing for so many days, with my husband smirking at me.

I have tried creams (including Retin-A and phytoestrogens) and supplements (Wild Yam, Kava Kava, Motherwart, Sabal, etc.) on multiple occasions for months at a time with no verifiable results. I still wear a 32-B and after measuring regularly during my various trials I have come to the conclusion that there is no quick non-surgical fix.

Indeed, in talking with a local plastic surgeon near my home in Torrance , she confirmed that short of fat injection, which is not offered by most plastic surgeons, the only true method of increasing breast size for any long-term effect is the breast augmentation procedure . During a consultation we talked about my goals for the procedure and what I realistically wanted to achieve. After more than fourteen years of feeling unsatisfied with my cup size, I have decided to have a breast augmentation and I am ecstatic about seeing my body for the first time after recovering. I simply cannot wait.

HOW IS REVISION BREAST AUGMENTATION PERFORMED?

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:04:45 GMT

When arriving at the surgeon’s office or surgical center, photographs may be taken for a patient’s medical record. The surgeon will likely go over post surgical procedures one final time and make sure you are prepared for the healing and recovery process. The doctor will examine your breasts, skin and nipples and take detailed measurements. Because the surgery is performed while the patient is laying flat, the doctor will draw reference lines with a marker while the patient is sitting uprigt that will help determine how the breasts will sit when the patient is upright.

Patients will be connected to an IV, heart rate monitor and once the doctor and nurses have checked to make sure all is working properly, the anesthetist will begin administering general anesthesia or intravenous sedation depending on what the patient and doctor have decided on as the best option.

It is important for patients to be completely honest with the surgeon when discussing the size and shape of breasts they hope to achieve. The size of the implants, as well as how the surgery will be performed will be determined in no small part by what patients relate to the surgeon as well as their anatomy, skin type, and current breast size. Incisions are made as inconspicuously as possible and depending on the size and type of implant desired, can be made under the arms, in the breast folds, or through the areolas.

Implants can be inserted either under the pectoral muscle (submuscular placement) or over the pectoral muscle directly behind the breast tissue itself (submammary placement). The placement will depend on the both the size and type of the implant as well as the surgeon’s recommendations.

After the implants have been inserted and properly positioned the surgeon will close all of the incisions with layered sutures as well as surgical tape. Immediately following surgery the incisions will be very visible but will begin to fade over time as the body recovers. It will take time before the full results of the procedure are visible.

Patients should expect some postoperative swelling and bruising which will resolve within 4 weeks. Most patients should expect to return to work within 4-5 days and resume vigorous heavy lifting and excercise in 4 weeks.

All medications should be taken as prescribed including painkillers and antibiotic treatments and medicines not prescribed by the surgeon should be avoided unless you have spoken with the surgeon about taking them during your recovery. Patients should slowly ease back into normal activity over then next several months and should refrain from rigorous activity until they are given the OK from their surgeon.

WHY CHOOSE DR GOLDBERG?

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:04:43 GMT

When making the decision to have plastic surgery, there are so many factors that need to be considered. The largest decision, by far, is which doctor should I choose for my surgeon? Patients in the Torrance and South Bay area have a wide range of very skilled surgeons from which to choose. So why choose Dr Goldberg?

Dr Goldberg is first and foremost, a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon. This may not be significant to some, but it cannot be stressed enough that the highest percentage of complications come from doctors who perform plastic surgery when they are not actually trained in plastic surgery. It’s important to understand that any doctor with an MD can offer cosmetic procedures, however, doctors who are board certified, like Dr Goldberg, have spent years in specialized “plastic surgery” training, and have a deeper understanding of cosmetic procedures.

As a woman, Dr Goldberg has a deep understanding of women’s challenges. She listens to her patients, and talks about their overall goals. She understands that while women may choose to alter their bodies in the short term, in the long term, they are seeking to gain confidence and self esteem. Whether it’s something as simple as fitting into their clothes better, or being proud to wear a bathing suit after having children, it may also be something much deeper that involves rediscovering themselves and reclaiming their lives after surviving breast cancer. She understands that self confidence plays a large role in the reasons why people choose plastic surgery, and takes the time to make that connection with her patients. “My goal is to educate, inform, and empower my patients to make the best decisions regarding their bodies.” Dr Goldberg is dedicated to offering medical care to her patients with respect, dignity and sensitivity.

With a firm belief that the most satisfied patients are well informed patients, Dr Goldberg makes certain to take time answering all of her patient’s questions and addressing any concerns they may express along the way. She explains procedures in a forthright manner, always taking into consideration the patient’s desired results. As basic as it sounds, being thorough can often be a rare trait in a doctor. Dr Goldberg is also dedicated to offering cutting edge surgical techniques to her patients. Keeping abreast of all the latest techniques, from micro-reconstruction to fat transfers, Dr Goldberg makes sure to offer her patients the procedure that best fits their needs as well as desired results.

Finding an excellent Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in Torrance may seem like a challenge, but a consultation with Dr Goldberg can change that.

IS BREAST LIFT WITH IMPLANTS RIGHT FOR ME?

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:04:41 GMT

While thousands of women undergo breast lift surgery each year, it’s true that plastic surgery is not for everyone. There are all kinds of factors to take into account before deciding on a breast lift and surgery should be something that is carefully considered and not a split second decision. A breast lift may take women away from or limit the ability to work and to engage in social and family activities for several weeks like any other major surgery.

A breast augmentation, also called a mastopexy, is a cosmetic breast surgery designed to reverse the effects of aging, trauma to the breast from pregnancy and breast-feeding, and the natural effects of gravity. To affect a more natural and youthful look underlying skin can be lifted, reshaped, or removed and the areolas can be repositioned higher. Skin around the perimeter of the areolas can be removed to reduce their size. These incisions are placed around the areola, across the base of the breast and between the base and the areola to minimize scarring, but scars will remain to some degree depending on each patient’s body’s unique ability to heal.

Breast lifts are great for patients whose breasts have change shape after childbirth or have slowly begin to sag or point downward as they have aged. Patients should expect to spend at least the first several days post surgery in bed, after which they will be able to move around carefully and begin to resume normal activity over the next few weeks. Some patients are able to return to work within the first two weeks while others take slightly longer. The recovery process is critical to healing properly and patients must be careful to take things slowly as recommended by the surgeon.

A breast lift is not a cure all and if you are interested in increasing or decreasing the size of your breasts another cosmetic procedure such as a breast augmentation or a breast reduction will be better suited to meet your expectations. Contact an American Board Certified Plastic Surgeon today for a consultation and to learn if a breast lift or a similar procedure is right for you.

WHAT PROBLEMS CAN REVISION BREAST IMPLANTS CORRECT?

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:04:37 GMT

As breast augmentation remains one of the most common cosmetic surgical procedures administered every year, it is an unfortunate but unavoidable fact that a portion of women will experience unsatisfactory results or complications that affect the outcome of their procedure. At times patient’s expectations may be too high or simply unrealistic. It is important to carefully select your surgeon only after careful research and plenty of thought, however some patients, even after believing that they have done so find that they are not satisfied with their results.

Revision breast augmentation is a procedure that aims to not only correct issues from past breast augmentations, but to create a more suitable result for the breasts, with which the patient is truly satisfied . Revision breast augmentation is often accompanied by breast implants in patients who have decided after the initial procedure that they would like to increase their cup size as well.

Revision breast augmentation can offer unique challenges for a surgeon, but an experienced and skilled surgeon can address problems such as disruption of inframmammary folds and symmastia, improperly positioned implants, surface irregularities, and irregular movement due to chest muscle contraction. Because a surgeon must deal with scarring of tissue and the altered state of the tissues of the breast, each revision breast augmentation can be extremely individualized and it is recommended that revision techniques only be attempted by trusted and experienced surgeons.

A thorough examination, including a mammogram, a physical, and a full study of a patient’s medical history will allow the surgeon to give patients a clear idea of what is possible and what the likely outcome of their procedure will be. A quality surgeon should be patient and ready to explain everything that will be attempted and also be ready to answer any questions the patient might have. Revision breast augmentation specialists should understand that patients are often already weary due to the results of their prior surgery. Revision surgeons should make themselves as available to the patients as possible and shouldn’t offer miracle cures but realistic projections. While the patient’s initial procedure may have been poorly prepared for, poorly handled and may have left a bad taste in their mouth, revision surgery should at minimum, provide results that the patient can live with confidently and renew the patient’s belief that there are surgeons who are dedicated to what they do and fully capable.

HOW IS BREAST REDUCTION SURGERY PERFORMED?

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:04:35 GMT

Breast reduction surgery is the opposite of what most people envision when they think of breast surgery. Breast reduction is performed to reduce the size of the breast rather than trying to increase the size of the breast, as is the goal of a breast augmentation. Women who seek breast reduction often feel self conscious or suffer self esteem issues, however these patients should keep in mind that the doctor has met with and helped hundreds of women in similar circumstances. Breasts that are too large can cause more than just body image and self esteem issues, they can cause should, neck, back, and other muscle and joint problems.

Having reached full physical maturity is one of the main prerequisites for patients seeking a breast reduction surgery and other significant factors include, the size and shape of the breasts and whether or not a woman plans to become pregnant and begin breast-feeding. Breast feeding and pregnancy can dramatically alter the shape and size of the breasts and most doctors recommend women who plan to become pregnant wait until after they have gone through with breast feeding to seek breast reduction. The most ideal patients are those who are in good health, who do not smoke and maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise. Patients who do smoke will be instructed to refrain from smoking for several months. All patients will need to refrain from the use of anti-inflammatory drugs such as Aspirin and Aleve that can cause blood thinning and lead to blood loss during surgery.

A standard breast reduction surgery involves making 3 main incisions .

The first incision is made along the base of the breast, following the natural curve of the breast. The second incision is made around the areola (nipple) in order to retain as much mammary function as possible. The third incision is made from the base of the nipple directly to the base of the breast. These three incisions allow excess skin and tissue to be trimmed away while maintaining a normal breast shape as well as allowing the nipple to be relocated to an appropriate position once the mass of the breast has been reduced. These three locations allow Dr. Goldberg to reduce the size of the breast as much as possible while limiting the amount of scars that are created.

A breast reduction can be performed in an average of 2-4 hours and the patient will remain under general anesthesia and patients will not feel any pain or remember anything. The surgery is considered an outpatient procedure and patients can return home for rest and recovery after a short observation.

There are a variety of techniques that can be used and a number of specific outcomes that can be focused on. If you are considering breast reduction surgery, contact Dr. Goldeberg for a personal consultation , tailored advice, and a first hand account of what might be possible for you with a breast reduction.

HOW WILL MY NIPPLES BE AFFECTED BY BREAST REDUCTION SURGERY?

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:04:27 GMT

Many patients seeking a breast reduction become worried by a number of horror stories that can be found online, all of which chronicle patients’ damaged or lost nipples resulting from bad breast reduction surgeries. While this is very rare it can happen and can be due to complications during surgery or due to prior medical issues, but is commonly due to environmental and postoperative factors. Surgical techniques can also play a role in proper technique and recovery and patients are advised to seek an American Board Certified Plastic surgeon like Dr. Goldberg , who can offer the highest level of expertise and experience.

Factors like nicotine use can severely threaten proper recovery. Nicotine use, in particular can reduce the oxygen supply to the blood and lead to complications like necrosis (tissue death), which is often directly correlated to nipple loss, infections and hematoma. Even readily available painkillers like Motrin and Aleve should be avoided before surgery and during recovery. These drugs are blood thinners and dramatically increase the risk of blood loss by decreasing the blood’s ability to coagulate and the body’s ability to heal itself.

Proper preparation through adherence to dietary guidelines, regular exercise, as well as abstinence from restricted drugs, blood thinners, and alcohol can help patients recover more quickly and fully from their breast reduction surgery. Dr. Goldberg will carefully instruct patients on how to prepare for surgery and provide details on what should be avoided as well as steps that are essential to maintaining a health body before surgery and after recovery.

Dr. Goldberg schedules follow up appointments after each surgery at regular intervals in order to carefully monitor each patient’s recovery. It is vital that patients make every effort to attend all of the appointments scheduled for them and to follow the doctor’s guidelines. Finding a qualified and American Board Certified Plastic Surgeon will mean that patients can rest assured that they are in good hands and worry only about taking care of their personal health and diet.

If you are interested in breast reduction surgery or would like to schedule a consultation or receive more information, contact Dr. Goldberg at her Torrance practice or learn more on Dr. Goldberg’s Breast Reduction Page .

BREAST AUGMENTATION AND DETAILS EXPLAINED

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:04:25 GMT

Breast augmentation is the most common elective surgery performed in the United States, with more than 300,000 women undergoing such procedures in 2011. Women who are dissatisfied with breast size or shape often decide to have breasts enhanced, while others have augmentation to correct asymmetry or restore the appearance of breasts that have begun to sag due to pregnancy or aging. If you are considering augmentation, you should know that there are a variety of options available these days. Which of these is best depends upon a number of factors, such as your goals for augmentation, body type, anatomy and overall health.

BREAST IMPLANTS

Breast implant surgeries are the most common type of breast augmentation procedure done today, and are the most suitable for women who are looking for a significant increase in breast size. They are generally done on an outpatient basis, and the exact method used will depend upon the particular type of procedure you and your doctor have decided is best for you. For this procedure, your surgeon will make an incision in one of three places, along the crease underneath the breast, around the nipple or under the arm. The surgeon will then construct a pocket for your implants, which can be placed either behind the outermost muscle of the chest wall or in front of it. Implants will then be centered under the nipple, and if saline implants are used, filled. Silicone implants are already filled before insertion. Then, the incision will be closed with sutures. As with any surgery, breast augmentation is not without risk. These can include infection, breast pain, changes in nipple sensation, implant rupture or leakage and capsular contracture, which is scarring that can be painful or change the shape of the breast.

FAT TRANSFER BREAST AUGMENTATION PROCEDURES

A Fat Transfer is a procedure that is exactly as it sounds: the transfer of body fat. This breast augmentation procedure may not be for everyone, but it could work well for the ideal candidate. It is used frequently during breast reconstruction, and is beginning to be used on a more cosmetic basis. A patient’s body fat is removed using Liposuction from a problem area, such as the abdomen, hips, or thighs. It is then injected into the patient’s breasts. If you are only mildly dissatisfied with your current bust size and prefer a natural look, this may be a good breast augmentation option for you. Perhaps you only want to increase size by 1/2 to 1 full cup size, and don’t particularly like the look of an “implant” breast. This procedure uses your own body fat, so there is no introduction of a foreign object into your body. However, as with any procedure, there are risks. The most amount of fat recommended for injection is 250cc. There is no guarantee how much of the fat will survive the overall transfer, and some of it will most likely die off.

Choosing your surgeon carefully can minimize the potential for complications during and after your breast augmentation procedure . Ask for referrals from your health care professional and recommendations from friends who have had cosmetic procedures done. Speak to a selection of surgeons, choosing the one who you feel takes your concerns and questions most seriously and spends time going over options and explaining things you don’t understand. Finding a great surgeon is the key to walking away with a great new look.

DISCOVER BREAST AUGMENTATION IN TORRANCE

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:04:23 GMT

If you are considering breast augmentation in Torrance, you’ll find a variety of options available to you as far as types of procedures are concerned. Becoming well-informed on those options is essential to getting results you will be satisfied with for years to come, since there is no one breast augmentation procedure that is best for everyone. The decision is a very personal one for each woman, depending upon factors such as the results she is looking for, her reason for augmentation and her individual body type, size and anatomy. A good surgeon will be willing to spend the time it takes to evaluate your situation to find the augmentation options that will best suit your needs and desires.

Choosing the Right Surgeon forBreast Augmentation in Torrance

Choosing the right surgeon may well be the most important decision you make about your breast augmentation procedure. First of all, you’ll need to make a list of doctors that have an established reputation as experienced and skillful plastic surgeons. One of the best resources for this is the ASPS website. This can provide you with a list of Board Certified Plastic Surgeons in your area. Once you have a list of the best surgeons for breast augmentation in Torrance , spend a little time interviewing each one to find a doctor you feel comfortable with. Choose the one who listens patiently to your concerns and questions and takes the time to thoroughly evaluate your situation and explain your options in terms that you clearly understand. You will be making some very important decisions, so having a doctor you trust to guide you through those choices is essential.

Preoperative Decisions and Planning

Once you’ve chosen a surgeon for your breast augmentation in Torrance , the next step will be a thorough evaluation of your options. For that evaluation, bring a picture of what you want to look like after your augmentation is complete to ensure that your expectations are clear. Your surgeon will examine the anatomy and structure of your chest, breast tissue and skin to determine if those expectations can be met to your satisfaction and what type of procedure will give you the best results.

Breast Augmentation in Torrance: Implants.

Breast implants are the most common procedure for breast augmentation in Torrance , and done by a skilled surgeon, can produce beautiful results. However, it is important that they are sized properly for your body. Going too large for a woman’s anatomy can cause issues, such as drooping, thinning and stretching of skin or breast tissue, rippling or implant edges that are visible through the skin, so it is important that your doctor helps you choose a size that will give the most attractive and comfortable results.

You’ll need to discuss the type of implants to be used, choosing among options that include silicone or saline filled implants. Silicone offers the advantage of more natural feel and texture to the breasts, while saline requires a smaller incision for insertion. Implants come in varied shapes and can be smooth or textured. Your surgeon can help you decide what the best option is for the results you are trying to achieve.

Breast augmentation is a very common procedure, routinely done on an outpatient basis. However, no surgery, no matter how routine, is without risk, so it is very important to choose your surgeon carefully. When it comes to skill, experience and personalized care and attention, there is no better surgeon for breast augmentation in Torrance than those at Goldberg Plastic Surgery.

HOW TO GET BREAST IMPLANTS IN TORRANCE

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:04:19 GMT

Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures done today. Demand for breast implants in Torrance is high, as Los Angeles County women seek augmentation to correct issues with breast size or appearance that they find troublesome. A variety of procedures can be done to enhance breast appearance, depending upon the specific issues a woman needs addressed and the results she would like to achieve. If you are considering breast implants in Torrance , choosing the right procedure for your needs can be a confusing task. Finding a great plastic surgeon to guide you through the process can make it much easier, ensuring that you’ll walk away with beautiful results.

BREAST AUGMENTATION AND ENHANCEMENT PROCEDURES

Breast augmentation is not a one-size-fits-all procedure. Different issues and body types require different solutions. A woman who feels her breasts are too small may get the results she is looking for with breast implants in Torrance . For a woman who has lost size or volume to pregnancy, nursing or aging, a breast lift combined with breast implants may be the best option. A variety of solutions are available for unevenly sized or shaped breasts, and for women who have larger breasts than they are comfortable with, breast reductions can be done, alone or combined with a breast lift.

BREAST RECONSTRUCTION AND REVISION PROCEDURES

Breast implants in Torrance are not just for cosmetic procedures . They are often used in reconstruction after breast cancer treatment or to correct congenital issues, like tuberous breast or other developmental abnormalities. Revision surgeries, are done to correct poor results from a previous breast procedure or to address implant failures or other complications. These procedures are delicate and complex, so choosing a surgeon who is very skilled and experienced in them is essential.

BREAST IMPLANTS IN TORRANCE: CHOOSING THE RIGHT ONES FOR YOU

The best implants for you will depend largely on your expectations in regards to the look and feel of your breasts after augmentation. Breast implants in Torrance are available in a range of options. They can be silicone filled or saline, smooth or textured and are made in several shapes and a range of sizes. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, which should be explained in detail by your surgeon.

While implant type is primarily a matter of personal preference, sizing can be a bit less subjective. Your body type and chest anatomy places some limitation on the implant size your body can accommodate, especially if beautiful, natural looking results are your goal. Implants that are too large for your body can cause thinning and stretching of breast tissues and skin, which can lead to drooping and implant edges becoming visible through the skin.

FINDING THE BEST SURGEON FOR YOUR BREAST IMPLANTS IN TORRANCE

Breast augmentation is a procedure you want done right the first time. Choosing a skilled, talented and experienced plastic surgeon to handle your breast implants in Torrance is the most important thing you can do to ensure that it is so. Take your time and research any surgeon you are considering, and consult with several before making a choice. Ask how many breast procedures each surgeon has done and ask to see before and after pictures. The surgeon you choose should be happy to answer your questions and explain your surgical options in detail, eager to help you make the sound decisions for the best possible results.

OBTAINING COSMETIC BREAST SURGERY IN TORRANCE

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:04:17 GMT

If you’re less than satisfied with the size or shape of the breasts mother nature provided you with or what factors like motherhood, time, gravity or health issues have done to change them, cosmetic breast surgery in Torrance may be just the solution you’ve been seeking. There are a number of options available for a woman who wants to restore or improve her figure, ranging from augmentation procedures, with or without breast implants, to breast reduction, breast lifts or breast reconstruction. Learning exactly what is involved with each of these options can help you make a solid, informed decision about whether cosmetic breast surgery in Torrance is the right choice for you.

Cosmetic Breast Surgery in Torrance: Breast Augmentation

The most common type of cosmetic breast surgery in Torrance is breast augmentation. Women typically seek out these procedures to correct an aspect of their figure that they aren’t pleased with, such as breasts that are smaller than they’d like, asymmetrical, or have sagged or lost volume due to pregnancy, nursing, weight loss or aging.

Breast implants procedures are among the most popular cosmetic surgeries done today, performed in more than 250,000 women annually. In this procedure, implants filled with either silicone gel or saline are surgically placed into the breasts to achieve a specific size, shape or volume. Implants are available in a selection of sizes, shapes and types, and will be chosen by patient and surgeon to best match the results a woman would like to achieve with her cosmetic breast surgery in Torrance.

A simple breast lift may be the right solution for a woman who has seen changes in the size, shape or volume of her breasts over time, typically after weight loss, pregnancy or nursing. This popular cosmetic breast surgery in Torrance simply tightens loose skin in the breasts to restore their youthful appearance. For women who have lost a great deal of breast volume or would like to enhance size at the same time, a breast lift with implants may be the way to the most satisfying results.

Fat transfer procedures are a less invasive option for the woman who is mildly dissatisfied with the look of her breasts, yet doesn’t like the idea of breast implants or other more aggressive cosmetic breast surgery in Torrance. Used in breast reconstruction for years, fat transfer procedures use a woman’s own body fat from another part of the body, such as the abdomen, hips, or thighs to enlarge or reshape the breasts.

Of course, not every woman wants to go larger. Women who have breasts that are uncomfortably large, causing physical challenges, or would prefer a more streamlined appearance often turn to breast reduction to decrease breast size and weight.

Breast Reconstruction and Revision Procedures

Breast reconstruction is a cosmetic breast surgery in Torrance that is done in women who have serious cosmetic or comfort issues due to losing a breast to cancer or being born with certain congenital breast deformations. Revision surgeries are generally done to correct poor results or complications from a prior breast surgery. While choosing an excellent surgeon for cosmetic breast surgery in Torrance is always important, reconstruction and revision procedures are particularly complex and delicate. Women must be especially careful to research thoroughly and select a surgeon with extensive experience and an excellent track-record for great results.

ARE YOU SEEKING COSMETIC BREAST SURGERY IN TORRANCE?

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:04:15 GMT

If you’re looking for cosmetic breast surgery, Torrance plastic surgeons have plenty of options to offer to enhance your figure. However, surgery is a serious step and great results depend on making solid, informed choices. So before you commit to a procedure, learn as much as you can about cosmetic breast surgery. Torrance surgeons offer a range of surgical enhancements to improve your figure, and choosing the right one to suit your needs can be a confusing task. You’ll want to spend some time researching various procedures and consulting with several surgeons before making those important choices to be sure that you walk away with the beautiful, natural looking results you have in mind.Insert Content

Cosmetic Breast Surgery, Torrance : Choosing the Right Surgeon is Priority One

Although Torrance is a small city, there are quite a few surgeons in the area that offer cosmetic breast surgery. Torrance is, after all, located in Los Angeles County. What that means is that if you take your time and consult with a few surgeons, you’re sure to find just the right surgeon for your procedure. The first consideration, of course, must be that your surgeon has excellent credentials and a solid track record of great results. However, personality matters too, so once you’ve screened for talent and experience, choose the surgeon on your list who makes you feel most comfortable and relaxed. You’ve got a lot of very personal decisions to make, so having a supportive, concerned professional in your corner is essential.

Breast Augmentation Procedures

Breast augmentation is the most frequently requested type of cosmetic breast surgery. Torrance surgeons perform these procedures to correct aspects of a woman’s figure that she sees as a flaws, such as breasts that she feels are disproportionately small or large, are uneven in size or shape, or have changed in appearance due to motherhood, weight loss or aging.

For women who are looking to increase size or volume with cosmetic breast surgery, Torrance surgeons can perform a breast implant procedure. These are done on more than 250,000 women every year, and can offer great results when done by a skillful and experienced plastic surgeon. Implants can be chosen in a number of sizes, shapes and styles to suit your build, anatomy and the appearance you’d like to achieve.

Fat transfer procedures are among the latest and most advanced options in cosmetic breast surgery. Torrance surgeons may recommend these procedures for women who need just a mild size or volume enhancement or would rather not have a more invasive procedure. Fat transfer procedures use liposuction to remove fat from a woman’s hips, tummy or thighs, which is then injected into the breasts to enlarge them or make them more shapely.

For the woman who is happy with her size, but has noticed some sagging or loss of volume due to pregnancy, weight loss or aging, a breast lift may be the cosmetic breast surgery Torrance plastic surgeons would recommend. This procedure revitalizes the breasts by tightening loose skin, restoring a perkier, more youthful figure. If a simple breast lift is not enough to restore lost volume, or you would like to enhance size, a breast lift with implants can be done. In women who have larger, heavier breasts than they would like, breast reduction can help and can be combined with a breast lift for a wonderful new look.

COSMETIC BREAST SURGERY IN TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:04:12 GMT

If you’re looking into cosmetic breast surgery, cosmetic surgeons in Torrance have a selection of procedures available to help you enhance your figure. Whether your breasts are smaller or larger than you’d like, or have suffered the effects of pregnancy or aging, a skilled and board certified plastic surgeon can help you achieve a look you’ll find more satisfying.

Cosmetic Breast Surgery Torrance: Augmentation

Breast augmentation procedures are the most commonly performed type of cosmetic breast surgery. Cosmetic surgeons in Torrance use different methods to augment the shape, size or volume of breasts, with the most popular being the breast implant procedure. Breast implants are medical devices, composed of a silicone envelope that can be filled with either silicone or a saline solution and are then placed into the breasts. They are available in a variety of sizes and shapes to produce differing looks according to the preferences and anatomy of each patient.

Breast lifts, done with or without implants, are another very popular cosmetic breast surgery . Cosmetic surgeons in Torrance perform these procedures in order to correct sagging or volume loss in the breasts that commonly occurs with pregnancy, nursing, weight loss or aging. A simple breast lift tightens the skin of the breasts, giving them a firmer, perkier and more youthful profile. If additional size or volume is desired, breast implants can be placed during the breast lift procedure.

Fat transfer procedures can be a great option for women who are interested in subtle breast augmentation. For this type of cosmetic breast surgery, Torrance doctors use liposuction to remove fat from a woman’s own body, harvesting it from the thighs, belly or hips, to be injected into the breasts to add size or volume.

Reduction or Reconstruction

Many women turn to cosmetic surgery to find relief from the physical and emotional discomfort that can come from very large breasts. Breast reduction procedures have helped many alleviate that discomfort. Women who have suffered the affects of breast cancer, congenital breast deformities or disfigurement due to complications with a previous cosmetic procedure often find relief with breast reconstruction procedures.

Cosmetic Breast Surgery Torrance: Choosing Your Surgeon

Great results depend on choosing a great surgeon to perform your cosmetic breast surgery. Torrance has quite a selection of surgeons from which to choose, some more qualified in the practice of cosmetic surgery than others. Among the most important credential to look for to ensure expertise is board certification in plastic surgery. A doctor that holds this certification has undergone years of specialized training in plastic surgery, gaining a deeper understanding of and proficiency in cosmetic procedures. It is important to know that not every doctor performing these procedures has that certification, since any one with an M.D. can offer cosmetic breast surgery, and that complication rates are lower in breast procedures done by board certified plastic surgeons.

Dr Goldberg is a board certified plastic surgeon with extensive specialized training and experience in plastic and micro surgery. That skill, combined with her unique flair for the aesthetic and her determination to understand and meet the individual needs of each patient she serves makes Dr. Goldberg a great choice for any woman considering cosmetic breast surgery. Torrance area women who would like to learn more about cosmetic surgery or schedule a consultation with Dr. Goldberg will find all the information they need by visiting www.goldbergplasticsurgery.com.

FOR ANYONE INTERESTED IN COSMETIC BREAST SURGERY IN TORRANCE

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:04:10 GMT

To a person that has never had the experience of being seriously dissatisfied with his or her appearance, such a problem may seem trivial. However, for many, it is a very demoralizing and frustrating issue, especially given society’s emphasis on beauty and fitness and today’s ever more revealing fashion trends. Women who are unhappy with their breasts often spend a great deal of time and energy trying to hide or compensate for an issue they see as a flaw. Women who find that appearance issues affect self-esteem and quality-of-life may find relief in cosmetic breast surgery. Torrance plastic surgeons understand the sensitive issues involved and can help in achieving a more satisfying look.

Cosmetic Breast Surgery Torrance : Finding Proper Proportions

Shopping can be a frustrating experience for those who cannot seem to find anything that fits quite right. Women who have breasts that are larger or smaller than average often encounter this problem. Generally, they won’t find fitted clothing that is properly proportioned for their figure, leaving them little alternative but to populate their wardrobe with loose-fitting, rather shapeless styles. Being so limited can be very difficult, especially for women who must have an extensive professional wardrobe or are very active socially. Years of that sort of frustration often motivates women to look into cosmetic breast surgery. Torrance surgeons can use breast augmentation or breast reduction to create a more proportionate silhouette.

Breast size can be much more than a matter of inconvenience and frustration. For women with over-developed breasts, it can pose physical problems, causing damage to the shoulders and back. Both very large and very small breasts can cause self-esteem issues in many women, which can, in turn, limit social and professional achievement. For these women, breast reduction or augmentation can be much more than cosmetic breast surgery. Torrance women who successfully resolve an issue that has been the source of self-consciousness for many years often find surgery a life-changing experience.

Cosmetic Breast Surgery Torrance: Restoring What Once Was

Over time, most of us notice that things aren’t quite where they used to be, as time, gravity, pregnancy or nursing begin to take their toll. These factors often cause breasts to sag or change in size, shape or volume. Of course, padded bras, push-ups and other specialized garments can help, but they aren’t practical in all situations, on the beach or under a strapless dress, for instance. With cosmetic breast surgery, Torrance surgeons can eliminate sagging with a breast lift, and shape, volume or size issues can be handled by combining augmentation and breast lift surgeries.

Breast reconstruction is another important restorative form of cosmetic breast surgery. Torrance women who have overcome breast cancer, but lost a breast or part of one in the process, often find restoring what they lost an important step towards healing. Not only does it help restore their sense of self, a beautiful new look can be a declaration of victory against a disease that has changed their lives.

Whatever your personal reasons for considering surgery, make sure it isn’t a snap decision. Before you commit, take the time to learn about cosmetic breast surgery. Torrance surgeons can explain the risks and benefits of various procedures and help you make solid, informed decisions. After all, you’ll live with the results for a very long time.

SMART LIPO™ LASER LIPOSUCTION BODY SCULPTING

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:04:06 GMT

Whether because of inactivity, less than fantastic dietary habits, or just as an unfortunate and often inescapable part of growing older, many people can find themselves developing a bit of extra, unwanted fat here and there. The invention of liposuction in the 1970s revolutionized our ability to fight off the effects of aging and change the way we look. If you’ve recently looked into having liposuction performed, you’ve probably heard of something called “smart lipo” , but what exactly is it and how is it different from regular liposuction?

Smart Lipo™, also called laser assisted liposuction , or laser lipolysis, is the latest method for removing unsightly fat deposits from beneath the skin – one that Goldberg Plastic Surgery is now proud to offer. In Smart Lipo™ a micro laser, housed in a tiny sheath called a cannula, is used to melt the fat cells so they can be easily removed.

Similar to other forms of liposuction, Smart Lipo ™ is generally most effective for people who are not excessively overweight and who have maintained a stable weight for an extended period. Good skin elasticity is also important to reduce the amount of scarring, and lessen the chance of sagging after the procedure is performed.

The procedure usually takes between one and two hours to perform, depending on which, and how many areas are to be treated. It is ideally suited for smaller deposits of fatty tissue; love handles, double chins, and flabby arms in particular. The areas to be treated receive a local anesthetic, so discomfort during the procedure is minimal. Because laser assisted liposuction is less invasive than traditional methods, recovery times are generally quicker. You may experience some mild bruising and you may feel achy, as if you’d overdone it at the gym, but you will be more or less back to your regular routine within a couple of days.

Smart Lipo ™ has a number of benefits over traditional fat removal methods. Because the micro cannula housing the laser is so small, the incisions used in laser assisted liposuction are quite a bit smaller than the ones used in traditional liposuction, which uses a much larger, suction cannula. The smaller incisions result in much less scarring than with other methods. Also, the heat produced by the laser often causes the surrounding tissues to contract, which means that patients frequently benefit from tighter, smoother skin after the procedure has been performed. Cauterization caused by the laser also helps with preventing infection, and to reduce bleeding during the procedure.

In keeping with her dedication to providing the best and most up-to-date services to her patients, Dr. Goldberg is very pleased to be able to add Smart Lipo™ to the long list of procedures she performs. If you’re less than happy about the shape of your body, and you’ve been considering what to do, book a consultation with Dr. Goldberg. She’ll help you decide if liposuction – the traditional, or the laser assisted variety – is the right choice.

Your new body is waiting.

THE KEY ADVANTAGES OF SMART LIPO ™

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:04:04 GMT

If you’ve been thinking recently about some body contouring, you’ve probably heard about something called Smart Lipo ™ — a form of laser assisted liposuction. Smart Lipo ™ is a new method of removing small, unwanted pockets of fat from the body. It uses a small laser to melt the fat before it is extracted, which is the primary way it differs from traditional liposuction methods.

Smart Lipo ™ has some key advantages over traditional liposuction techniques in many situations, but there are still some situations where traditional methods are more appropriate. This is why Dr. Goldberg still offers both procedures. The only way to know for certain which variety of liposuction is most appropriate for you is to book a consultation with Dr. Goldberg to discuss your specific needs and goals. There are, however, some general characteristics that may indicate that laser assisted liposuction is the right choice for you.

For the most part, Smart Lipo ™ is more suitable for use on areas of the body with smaller fat deposits , or that are more publicly visible. The cannula that carries the laser is significantly smaller than the one used in traditional liposuction techniques, which means the incisions can be smaller, and therefore the chance of noticeable scarring is lessened.

Beyond that, laser assisted liposuction might be a more suitable choice for people to whom small details are very important. One of the side effects of the heat created by the laser is that, in addition to melting the fat, which makes it easier to remove, it also causes surrounding tissue to retract away from the heat. This reaction forces the skin in the surrounding area to produce more collagen, making it more elastic and providing a much tighter and more contoured final result.

Smart Lipo ™ may also be preferable for people with very busy schedules , or for those who wish to keep their liposuction a private matter. This is because the recovery time for laser assisted liposuction can be significantly shorter than that for traditional methods. Many cosmetic surgeons advise their patients to take a week or even longer from work, just for the recovery time. Patients who receive laser assisted liposuction, provided their job is a relatively stationary one such as a desk job, are often back at work in two days. For those who can’t afford to miss a week of work, laser assisted liposuction is often the best choice.

The shorter recovery time can also be beneficial for those for whom privacy is an important issue. The sooner you recover, the less likely anyone is to notice that you had any work done. Laser assisted liposuction also results, more often than not, in minimal bruising and discoloration when compared to traditional liposuction. Again this is helpful for patients who don’t wish their cosmetic surgery to be public knowledge.

There’s a place in modern cosmetic surgery for both traditional liposuction and Smart Lipo ™, and Dr. Goldberg is very proud to be able to offer both.

FASTER RECOVERY & OTHER BENEFITS OF SMART LIPO ™

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:04:01 GMT

Liposuction as we know it today, was invented in 1974. The 1980’s saw the addition of tumescent liquid — a mixture of saline and a local anesthetic — to the procedure and that, until quite recently, was the only significant change in liposuction technique in 30 years. Then 2007 saw the FDA approval of Smart Lipo ™, also known as laser assisted liposuction. Smart Lipo ™ is, quite frankly, a revolutionary new way to to remove unwanted fat deposits. It isn’t that it is superior in every way to traditional or tumescent liposuction but rather that Smart Lipo ™ provides an alternative set of pros and cons which can be of great benefit in certain situations.

Traditional methods of liposuction are very effective for larger pockets of fat, in particular in the abdominal and buttock areas where scarring is less visible. Traditional methods of liposuction are not as useful in highly visible areas such as the face, jawline, and neck, though, or in extremely sensitive areas of the body. Situations that require dealing with smaller pockets of fat, or with parts of the body that are awkward to deal with through traditional means are where laser assisted liposuction really shines. It is also quite useful in situations where a faster recovery time is important.

As we get older, it’s not uncommon to develop a bit of an extra chin. Traditional liposuction carries with it a not insignificant risk of leaving behind visible scarring, and that risk is amplified when the procedure is to be done at a site such as the chin or jawline, where a visible scar can be very visible indeed.

There are several reasons why Smart Lipo™ patients tend to recover considerably faster than those who undergo a traditional liposuction procedure. Smart Lipo™, because of the much smaller cannula used to carry the laser, is a less invasive procedure than traditional liposuction, and especially than tumescent liposuction which involves the forced injection of quite a bit of liquid into the patient’s body. The less invasive the procedure, the faster the body can recover from it. The heat from the laser also cauterizes surrounding tissue as it melts the fat. This cauterizing action helps to reduce blood loss by an enormous amount, and can possibly help lower the risk of infection.

Smart Lipo ™ provides a faster recovery time , a lower amount of scarring, and a likewise lesser chance of bruising and discoloration. Many patients find this to be important for reasons other than simply wanting to avoid discomfort, or feel better sooner.

People who seek out body contouring generally do so because they feel self-conscious about their appearance. Many of these patients feel likewise self-conscious, sometimes downright embarrassed, to be seeking the services of a cosmetic surgeon in the first place and they would rather keep that fact to themselves. This is much easier to do without visible bruising, and without having to take a week or more off work.

Dr. Goldberg can now make that possible.

Doctor Goldberg is a board certified plastic surgeon located in Southern California. Dr. Goldberg obtained her M.D. degree at Stanford University School of Medicine and is the recipient of the prestigious Fresh Start Research Fellowship from the American Plastic Surgery Education Foundation in 2004. She has presented her research at national meetings and several publications in peer reviewed journals.

SMART LIPO ™ LASER ASSISTED LIPOSUCTION FROM GOLDBERG PLASTIC SURGERY

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:03:59 GMT

The most important aspect of doctor-patient relationships is trust.

For someone considering undergoing any form of elective surgery, even a procedure as low risk and routine as liposuction, it is vital to have confidence that the advice your surgeon is giving you comes out of a concern for what’s best for you, the patient, rather than what’s best for the surgeon. In addition to the standard risks associated with any surgery, cosmetic surgery can have fundamental, long-lasting effects on our self image, and therefore our ability to interact effectively with the world around us. It is exactly this concern for the needs and well-being of her patients that has prompted Dr. Goldberg to add Smart Lipo ™ laser assisted liposuction to the list of procedures she performs.

Smart Lipo ™ is a new form of liposuction with a number of benefits , in some circumstances, over traditional methods of liposuction. With Smart Lipo ™, a small laser is inserted into the patient’s body at the site of an unwanted fat deposit, where it is used to melt the fat. The fat is then allowed to drain out through small incisions, or is removed with suction as with more traditional forms of liposuction.

The key advantages of Smart Lipo ™ are mostly related to the size of the incisions required, and some of the secondary effects of the heat produced by the laser. Because the cannula that delivers the laser into the patient’s body is much smaller than that used in traditional liposuction, the incisions used with laser assisted liposuction are likewise smaller. This usually results in lower amounts of scarring at the site of the procedure in comparison to older techniques. The heat produced by the laser helps to cauterize surrounding tissue, which reduces bleeding significantly and helps to speed the healing and recovery process.

The reasons Dr. Goldberg has added the Smart Lipo ™ procedure to her practice are the same as the reasons she entered medicine in the first place; to help people. Having been the victim of a burn injury herself, she understands the feelings experienced by people in need of cosmetic or reconstructive surgery. That’s why, during her extensive education and training at some of America’s most respected science and medical schools, she chose a sub-specialty in reconstructive hand surgeries (in particular those involving nerve damage). That’s why she continues to perform, and publish research into surgical and micro-surgical techniques used in wound repair. That is why she continues to add an ever wider variety of procedures to her repertoire — so she can help more people, more effectively.

Dr. Goldberg is pleased to offer Smart Lipo ™ laser assisted liposuction because, as a tireless advocate for her patients, she is always looking for more and better ways to provide her patients with the services that best fill their needs. If you’re considering any form of body contouring, and need advice you know is made with your best interests in mind, book a consultation with Dr. Goldberg.

Author: Doctor Goldberg is a board certified plastic surgeon located in Southern California. Dr. Goldberg obtained her M.D. degree at Stanford University School of Medicine and is the recipient of the prestigious Fresh Start Research Fellowship from the American Plastic Surgery Education Foundation in 2004. She has presented her research at national meetings and several publications in peer reviewed journals.

SMART LIPO ™ VS. TRADITIONAL LIPOSUCTION

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:03:56 GMT

Cosmetic surgery is an industry that is always changing, always improving, and always advancing. Advancements in technology lead to advancements in how we can use that technology to change the way we look and feel. One of the latest developments in cosmetic surgery is a new form of liposuction known as laser assisted liposuction, or Smart Lipo™ which, as the name implies, makes use of a laser to remove unwanted deposits of fat from the patient’s body. Smart Lipo™ has a number of advantages over traditional liposuction methods, which is why Dr. Goldberg is pleased to now be able to offer this cutting-edge procedure to her patients.

The biggest single difference between Smart Lipo™ and traditional liposuction methods is, of course, the use of a laser. The laser has a number of effects that make laser assisted liposuction more suitable than traditional methods for certain patients and situations.

With traditional liposuction a cannula, or hollow tube, is inserted into the patient’s body through an incision at the site of the procedure. The cannula is used to introduce extra liquid into the area, as well as to remove the resultant mixture of fat and liquid. With Smart Lipo™, because the micro cannula used to insert the laser is much smaller, the incisions user much smaller. This results in smaller and much less noticeable scarring, which is particularly useful in highly visible areas of the body such as the face and neck.

Another advantage provided by the Smart Lipo™ laser is that the heat it produces can help cauterize adjacent tissue which can minimize bleeding, and chance of infection. Because the heat of the laser actually melts the fat before it is removed, less liquid is required for the procedure to be effective in comparison to traditional liposuction. Easier extraction of waste fat also results in less disturbance of surrounding tissue. Being less invasive a procedure helps to reduce recovery time. Traditional liposuction methods can require up to a week to recover, while patients who receive laser assisted liposuction are often back to work in about two days. The heat also results in contraction of the skin around the affected area. This provides a firmer, more contoured effect to the final result, giving the patient a more pleasing shape.

Smart Lipo™ isn’t, by any means, better than traditional methods in all situations and for all patients. In cases where there is quite a lot of fat to be removed, for example, traditional tumescent liposuction is often the better choice. This is why Dr. Goldberg continues to offer both procedures; she is dedicated to providing the best, and most appropriate, treatment for each and every patient is required by their unique needs. If you’re considering cosmetic surgery as a way of getting the tight, contoured body you feel you should have, you should first book a consultation. A thorough, in-depth consultation with Dr. Goldberg is the only way to determine for certain what procedures are most likely to produce the results you desire.

SMART-LIPO OFFERS SMART SOLUTIONS TO MIDDLE-AGE SPREAD

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:03:53 GMT

While middle age spread was once considered the norm, we’ve learned in recent years that it isn’t inevitable, and more importantly, isn’t healthy. Consequently, many Americans are working hard to reach and maintain a healthy body weight, getting more exercise and making healthier dietary choices. However, many of those people are frustrated in their pursuit of a trim physique by stubborn pockets of fat that just won’t respond to diet and exercise. Smart Lipo, a less invasive, laser assisted form of liposuction, can improve those problem areas, helping those who have worked hard for a great figure overcome that last stubborn obstacle to achieving that goal.

Smart Lipo: A Flexible and Effective Solution for Stubborn Midlife Fat Deposits

Laser assisted liposuction combines two well-established and effective cosmetic techniques into one advanced face, neck and body sculpting procedure. Like traditional liposuction, it uses a cannula, which is a small hollow tube, to remove fat deposits beneath the skin. However, since the system uses laser technology to liquefy fat before it is extracted, the cannula and the incision necessary to accommodate it are much smaller than those used in traditional liposuction. Laser energy also heats skin tissues during the procedure, promoting increased collagen production to tighten the skin, and cauterizes blood vessels to reduce bleeding and bruising.

Middle age spread, for both men and women, often begins to make its appearance in the form of pesky fat deposits in the chin and neck that lead to the “double chin” look. Since it is done with a micro-cannula, Smart-Lipo offers surgeons the ability to address unwanted fat deposits those delicate areas with a great degree of precision, and the skin tightening effects of the procedure are of particular benefit in the face and neck, enhancing overall results.

For men, midlife often brings a stubborn pocket of paunch that hangs a bit over the belt or those infamous “love handles” that just won’t budge. Women often see localized deposits in the hips, thighs, knees, upper arms or abdomen, despite their best efforts at diet and exercise. Smart-Lipo offers an efficient and effective means of reducing those deposits and tightening the skin surrounding them, often providing smoother, more refined results than traditional liposuction.

The procedure is typically done with the use of local anesthesia, and patients typically are able to resume normal daily activities with two to three days. While some skin tightening is usually evident immediately after the procedure, skin improvements continue to develop for weeks after treatment is complete, as increased collagen gradually remodels skin tissues.

Smart-Lipo is best suited to patients that are in good general health and are close to their desired body-weight, yet have a few areas of localized fat accumulation they would like to remedy. Patients who wish to remove larger amounts of body fat may find traditional liposuction or a combination of both methods more suitable. Dr. Goldberg offers both laser assisted and traditional liposuction to her patients, and will be happy to help you decide which would best serve your individual needs.

SMART LIPO PROVIDES EFFECTIVE RESULTS AND MINIMAL DOWNTIME

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:03:51 GMT

Today’s fast-paced lifestyle can leave little time for all those things we really need to do to take care of ourselves. Many of us are juggling careers, households, children and aging parents. Perhaps squeezing out a week or more recovering from liposuction to remove that little pooch from your last child or the stubborn bit of flab on your hips just doesn’t seem feasible, no matter how much it irks you every time you look in the mirror. If this is your life, Smart Lipo might be the solution you’ve been looking for , offering effective slimming results with minimal downtime.

If you have a few areas of flab there that cause you to be dissatisfied with your figure, yet you don’t feel they are big enough problems to justify spending a week or more recovering from liposuction, Smart Lipo is definitely an option to explore. This minimally invasive form of liposuction can eliminate stubborn, unwanted fat deposits that ruin your otherwise slim, trim silhouette quickly and efficiently, allowing you get back to your life within two or three days feeling more satisfied and self-confident about your appearance.

Laser assisted liposuction offers advantages beyond just a speedy recovery. This advanced form of liposuction can, depending upon your personal circumstances, offer better results that traditional liposuction in a number of important ways.

Firstly, Smart Lipo uses a much smaller cannula than older liposuction procedures , which is the hollow tube that is used to extract fat from beneath the skin. This is made possible by the role that laser energy plays in the fat extraction process, which is to rupture fat cells, liquefying body fat so that it can be removed with that tiny cannula. A smaller cannula means smaller incisions, leading to lower risk of noticeable scarring and less healing time.

Secondly, laser energy plays other important roles in the process that can offer significant advantages over traditional liposuction. The heat produced by the laser cauterizes surrounding tissues, reducing bleeding, and causes tissue contraction, firming and tightening the skin in the treated area. The laser energy also produces longer-term skin benefits as it heats deep skin tissues, stimulating increased collagen formation to gradually tighten and improve the condition of the skin over a period of several weeks after your Smart Lipo procedure has been completed.

Like any cosmetic procedure, laser assisted liposuction is not for everyone. A thorough evaluation of general health should be done before any cosmetic procedure is performed. Although the procedure does carry fewer risks of complications than traditional liposuction, which is itself considered very safe and effective, there are some potential side effects to consider. Among these are bruising, bleeding, numbness, burns, swelling or infection.

So taking care of that bothersome bulge doesn’t have to mean squeezing a week or so into your already hectic schedule. Chances are, you could have your Smart Lipo procedure done on a Friday and be back to your life by Monday, looking and feeling great – just one weekend between you and that slim, trim figure you have in mind.

WHEN CRUNCHES DON’T CUT IT: SMART LIPO CAN HELP

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:03:48 GMT

Many very motivated and health conscious people have an extremely frustrating problem: They work out faithfully and eat right, yet there are these trouble areas, these isolated islands of fat that simply refuse to yield to even the most aggressive weight loss plan. Chances are, that stubborn bulge is a genetic trait, which often won’t respond to diet and exercise. However, knowing that doesn’t mean accepting defeat. There are solutions, such as Smart Lipo, an advanced, laser assisted liposuction technique that can often help where diet and exercise have failed.

Weight control is an issue that everyone should take seriously for the sake of health and well-being, given the mountain of evidence connecting excess weight to a wide range of health conditions and diseases. However, looking great is fringe benefit that people rightfully expect in return for the hard work and self-discipline they put into achieving their fitness goals. When genetics trouble spots interfere with that ideal, it can be a very frustrating and disappointing experience. It can also, in many cases, affect self-esteem as people worry over body issues they see as flaws, especially in today’s more fitness conscious society or cause them to become discouraged and give up on their fitness routine.

However, while a genetic predisposition to a belly bulge or larger hips or thighs may present a challenge, it is one that can be overcome with today’s medical advances. Smart Lipo is a very good option for people who are otherwise fit, but have a few isolated pockets of fat that no amount of crunches, squats or aerobic exercise seems to affect, offering a effective means of fine tuning the figure to remove those persistent trouble spots.

Smart Lipo is a procedure that combines two advanced aesthetic technologies into one very effective body sculpting technique. It uses a cannula, or hollow tube, equipped with a laser to extract fat from under the skin, the laser liquefying the fat to enable it to be removed through a smaller cannula, and thus a smaller incision, than is possible with traditional liposuction. Meanwhile, the heat of the laser causes cauterization of tissues that minimizes bleeding and stimulates the body’s natural healing process, prompting increased collagen formation which gradually remodels skin over a period of several weeks, improving elasticity for a tighter, more attractive appearance.

A much less invasive and more precise procedure than traditional liposuction, Smart Lipo offers great results with minimal downtime. Most patients generally able to resume normal activities within two or three days. Typically, local anesthesia is sufficient to keep patients comfortable during the procedure. Laser assisted liposuction is a considered a very safe and effective cosmetic procedure. However, as with any surgery, there are risks, including infection, skin burns, swelling or scarring.

Choosing an experienced, board certified plastic surgeon to perform your body sculpting procedure is the best way to minimize those risks. Doctor Goldberg offers Smart Lipo among her many professional services, so please feel free to contact her for an evaluation to see if laser assisted liposuction is right for you.

SMART LIPO: REFINING AND DEFINING FOR A SMOOTHER, YOUNGER YOU

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:03:46 GMT

Is the person you see in the mirror looking a little less like you and a bit more like your mother, father or older sibling? Approaching middle age can definitely make some changes in face and body, no matter how hard we work at keeping in shape. However, while no one can hold back the hands of time, modern medicine has given us an array of tools we can use to ensure that we age as gracefully as possible. Today, there are remedies for that inherited double chin, tummy bulge or upper arm flab. With options like Smart Lipo ™ easily available , we don’t have to settle for looking older than we should.

Smart Lipo ™ combines laser technology with a very precise and minimally invasive form of liposuction to sculpt the body, face and neck, removing those stubborn pockets of fat that tend to descend at midlife. Laser energy is used to rupture fat cells under the skin in the areas of treatment, liquefying the fat and enabling the use of a micro cannula for extraction.

This technique makes it possible to perform the procedure through much smaller incisions and with less trauma to surrounding tissues than is possible with traditional liposuction, leading to reduced risk of conspicuous scarring and faster healing. The addition of laser energy to the fat extraction process also aids in minimizing bleeding by cauterizing adjacent tissues, and it stimulates collagen production in the deep layers of skin, which results in smoother, tighter skin –an effect that develops gradually over the course of several weeks.

These characteristics make Smart Lipo ™ a great option for use in very delicate areas , such as the face and neck. What that means is that you can do something about the jowls you inherited from your father or the roll of neck fat or double chin that was passed down from one generation to another. You can have a defined chin, jawline or neck again. You do not have to settle for that unfamiliar face in the mirror, you can look like yourself again.

Smart Lipo ™ can handle those stubborn pockets of body fat that tend to become and issue during middle-age as well, such as that tummy that protrudes despite your daily workouts or that mysteriously appearing layer of flab on your posterior, hips or thighs. However, laser assisted liposuction is most effective when used to remove isolated deposits of fat in individuals who are otherwise generally fit. Ensuring that you are within 25 pounds of your ideal body weight is your best bet for achieving a sleek, defined and youthful figure. Individuals who have larger areas of fat to be removed may find traditional liposuction more effective.

So, as much as we love and respect our elders, we do not have to accept those inherited signs of aging before our time. Skilled, Board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Goldberg offers both Smart Lipo ™ and traditional liposuction among her many other anti-aging services. Call her for a consultation and see how she can help you delay that “turning into your mother” moment.

COSMETIC BREAST SURGERY: THE CHALLENGES OF BREAST IMPLANT REVISIONS

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:03:42 GMT

Breast implant revision surgeries are generally the most challenging form of cosmetic breast surgery for both patient and surgeon. Patients who have already had a disappointing experience are often, quite understandably, very anxious about the procedure. Surgeons are wading into a difficult situation as well, charged with the responsibility of correcting mistakes made by another surgeon or damage done by complications.

Common Reasons Revisions Become Necessary

Breast augmentation is a fairly routine cosmetic breast surgery procedure that produces good aesthetic results in the vast majority of women. However, on occasion, problems do occur that make revision surgery necessary. Among the most common reasons that breast implant replacement becomes necessary is improper implant sizing. Implants that are too large for a woman’s body style and anatomy increase risk of complications that include stretching and thinning of breast tissue or implant problems, such as rippling or rupture. Capsular contracture is another common reason that cosmetic breast surgery goes wrong, and is a condition in which scar tissue forms around the implant, often resulting in pain and misshapen or hardened breasts. Other issues that can lead to revision include an unsatisfactory aesthetic result, implant deflation and infection, among many others..

Preparing For Breast Implant Revision

While any cosmetic breast surgery requires careful and detailed preoperative planning , it is even more essential to be well-prepared for revision procedures. Typically, they are more complicated than an initial implant procedure, since scarring and damage is often an issue. Also, a surgeon performing a revision is working in an area that has already been altered by another surgeon, sometimes in unexpected or problematic ways. For this reason, it is vital that revision patients are very open in providing their surgeon with all relevant details related tot he original procedure, and that all medical records are made available. Additionally, patients may undergo several physical examinations and consultations with the surgeon during the planning process, since a safe and satisfactory result depends on the surgeon knowing as much about the situation as possible.

Revision Surgery: What to Expect

Revision surgery will likely take at least as long as your original cosmetic breast surgery . If it is a simple revision, done to replace a ruptured implant, it should not be a terribly long or complex procedure. On the other hand, if scarring, stretching or other, damage is an issue, or there are complex deformities to be resolved, revision may be a prolonged and challenging procedure. Your surgeon should be able to provide you with specific details in advance of your procedure.

Recovery time will depend upon the difficulty and circumstances surrounding your revision. For simple revisions, recovery may be easier than it was with the original cosmetic breast surgery. More complex cases may cause greater discomfort and prolonged healing and recovery. Of course, your surgeon, who will be familiar with the particulars of your procedure, will be able to give you more specific guidance on expected recovery times after a thorough evaluation has been performed.

Goldberg Plastic Surgery services patients in the Long Beach, Manhattan Beach, Palos Verdes, Redondo Beach, South Bay, & Torrance areas for cosmetic breast surgery procedure

BREAST AUGMENTATION: ACHIEVING OPTIMAL RESULTS FROM YOUR COSMETIC BREAST SURGERY

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:03:40 GMT

Breast augmentation is the most popular form of cosmetic breast surgery , performed 286,274 times in the United States in 2012, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. However, while the procedure has become quite routine and is fairly low-risk, it is not a simple surgery and it is a mistake to view it as one. Many of us, patients and surgeons alike, are too casual about breast augmentation, an issue that likely contributes to the high rates of breast implant revisions, a problem that affects as many as 20 percent of women within the first three years after augmentation.

Find the Right Surgeon

The key to getting the great results you want from a breast augmentation procedure is choosing the right plastic surgeon. Start by making a list of skilled and experienced plastic surgeons in your area with solid credentials, satisfied patients and low revision rates. Then, consult with several on that list to find the one with whom you feel most comfortable, since preparing for your cosmetic breast surgery will require a great deal of communication .

Does your surgeon take her time in explaining your options and take your questions and concerns seriously? Is he willing to explain exactly why he recommends one option over another? Has she done a thorough evaluation of your anatomy before making recommendations on implant style and size? This is an important point, since using an implant that is not sized to suit your anatomy can lead to poor aesthetic results or even serious complications that make revision necessary. Since no two women are alike, each cosmetic breast surgery is unique , so do not accept a cookie cutter approach to breast augmentation.

Take Good Care of Yourself

Being in great health when you have your cosmetic breast surgery can reduce complication risks. So, if you have poor dietary habits, get yourself on a healthy diet and take a good multivitamin supplement with minerals to ensure your body and your immune system are at their best. If you smoke, quit well before your surgery. A good skin care routine is important as well, since soft, supple skin promotes healing and discourages scarring.

Taking good care of yourself after your procedure is essential to minimizing your risk of complications. Be sure that you schedule your surgery with care, ensuring that you’ll have ample time for rest and recovery. Follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions to the letter, especially activity restrictions, since strenuous activity can inhibit proper healing.

You will be uncomfortable immediately after surgery, as bruising, swelling, fatigue and pain are common, so having a friend or family member close to help you through the first days of recovery may be wise. You may experience a feeling of tightness in the breast skin for a few weeks after cosmetic breast surgery as your body adjusts to your new size, and sensation may be impaired during the initial healing period. Most importantly, ask for a list of signs you should be watching for in terms of post-surgical complications and notify your surgeon of potential problems immediately.

Goldberg Plastic Surgery services patients in the Long Beach, Manhattan Beach, Palos Verdes, Redondo Beach, South Bay, & Torrance areas for cosmetic breast surgery procedure

COSMETIC BREAST SURGERY: THE PROS AND CONS OF BREAST LIFT PROCEDURES

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:03:38 GMT

Most women find that the appearance of their breasts change over time, often due to pregnancy, nursing, weight loss or aging. Breast sagging and diminished breast density can alter a woman’s figure significantly, making her look older than she should. While the issue can be camouflaged to some extent with the use of push up bras or other specialized garments, many women choose to have the problem resolved permanently by means of a surgical breast lift. Women considering this type of solution should spend some time weighing the pros and cons of the procedure carefully, since cosmetic breast surgery is a serious commitment .

Two basic types of breast lift procedures are available to women who are less than pleased with changes in the size, shape or volume of their breasts, simple breast lifts and breast lifts with implants. Both are outpatient procedures that are designed to lift, firm and shape the breasts in order to provide a more youthful and attractive appearance.

A breast lift is a cosmetic breast surgery procedure best suited for a woman who is satisfied with the size of her breasts, but wishes to address changes in shape, perkiness or volume. The procedure takes between three and four hours to complete, during which the plastic surgeon removes excess skin and tightens and reshapes breast tissue to improve give the breasts a firmer and more attractive appearance.

A breast lift with implants is a more complex cosmetic breast surgery that combines a simple breast lift with an augmentation procedure. This surgery is well-suited to a women who experienced a significant loss of volume or size with aging or after nursing, or who has always been dissatisfied with her breast size and would like to address that issue along with the effects of aging. In addition to the lift procedure, the surgeon will place implants under the chest muscle to enhance size or volume as requested by the patient.

The benefits of these cosmetic breast surgery procedures are primarily aesthetic ones, offering women the opportunity to reclaim their youthful figure or enhance it. However, the correction of appearance issues that a woman sees as flaws can have an emotional impact as well. Many women report a resurgence of self-confidence after their breast lift procedure, feeling pleased by the image they see in the mirror, rather than self-conscious.

The drawbacks include scarring, which is an inevitable consequence of any cosmetic breast surgery. How noticeable your scars will be depends upon factors that include the size of your incisions, which can vary according to the surgical technique used, and your skin type. Patients who are considering a breast lift with implants should know that while some patients can have both steps of this procedure performed in one surgical session, for others, a two stage process may be necessary, with the lift procedure done first and augmentation performed after a three month healing period. Complications are another consideration, since no surgery is without risk, and can include excessive bleeding, infection, poor wound healing and asymmetry and decreased nipple sensation.

Goldberg Plastic Surgery services patients in the Long Beach, Manhattan Beach, Palos Verdes, Redondo Beach, South Bay, & Torrance areas for cosmetic breast surgery procedures.

COSMETIC BREAST SURGERY ISN’T ALWAYS ABOUT APPEARANCES

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:03:34 GMT

When people hear the term cosmetic breast surgery , breast augmentation is often the first thing that comes to mind. However, many women who seek cosmetic breast procedures aren’t interested in augmentation at all. Rather, they have a desire to reduce the size of breasts that they feel are disproportionately large, an issue that can have both physical and emotional ramifications. Fortunately, breast reduction surgery can offer relief to these women, creating breasts that are lighter, firmer and more suitably proportioned for a woman’s frame.

Physical problems that develop as a result of carrying the weight of heavy, pendulous breasts are the most common reason women seek to reduce their breast size. Among the issues that can occur are back problems and neck pain, as body alignment is altered to compensate for disproportionate weight in the upper body. Exercise may be a difficultly, as large, heavy breasts often cause discomfort during physical activity. Many women develop deep grooves in the shoulders, caused by bra straps that are pulled tight by the weight of the breasts. Under such circumstances, breast reduction is often covered by health insurance, deemed a necessary reconstructive procedure rather than cosmetic breast surgery.

Women with large, pendulous breasts often seek cosmetic breast surgery because they are unhappy or self-conscious about the size of their breasts, an issue that can seriously impact a woman’s self-esteem. Women may be uncomfortable in the workplace or in social situations due to embarrassment over their appearance, or may avoid socializing as much as possible, resulting in self-imposed isolation.

Breasts that are disproportionately large can create very practical problems that spur women to investigate cosmetic breast surgery , such as severely limiting clothing options, since fitted clothing is seldom available in sizes that fit properly. Additionally, the need for strong, structured and supportive undergarments makes many styles impractical for women with larger breasts. These factors often leave women with little choice but to choose loose, shapeless styles. This can be particularly troublesome for young high-school or college age women, who often are quite embarrassed by being limited to “granny styles.”

Done by a skilled and talented plastic surgeon, reduction procedures can yield beautiful and comfortable results, creating a smaller, lighter and more shapely breast by removing excess skin, fat and tissue. Some scarring is an unavoidable side-effect of breast reduction surgery. The location and size of incisions are a factor in how noticeable your scars will be, and will vary according to the surgical technique used in your procedure.

Breast reduction is best done after breasts are fully developed, and women must be in good general heath to undergo the procedure. As with any surgery, complications are possible and should be explained thoroughly by your surgeon in terms that you clearly understand. It is important to note that breast reduction is a more complex procedure than other types of cosmetic breast surgery, making it important to choose a surgeon who, like Dr. Goldberg, has extensive training and experience in breast surgeries of all kinds, including complex breast reconstruction.

Goldberg Plastic Surgery services patients in the Long Beach, Manhattan Beach, Palos Verdes, Redondo Beach, South Bay, & Torrance areas for cosmetic breast surgery procedures.

WHEN GENETICS TRUMPS DIET AND EXERCISE, LIPOSUCTION CAN HELP

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:03:29 GMT

If you are one of the millions of people who have inherited a genetic predisposition to fat accumulation in certain areas of the body, you’re probably aware that diet and exercise don’t often make much headway in reducing those problem spots. Many people who are very committed to keeping fit have spent years trying to exercise those areas away, finding themselves toned and trim everywhere except those hips inherited from Mom or that back or belly bulge passed down from Dad. If this sounds familiar, liposuction is an option that you may want to explore as a permanent solution to this very frustrating issue.

Given the well-proven connections between excess weight and a vast array of serious health risks, the most important goal of keeping fit and trim is, of course, good health. However, appearance is an important factor in our everyday lives as well, and for all the effort that goes into staying in shape, looking great is a well-earned reward. Unfortunately, genetics can trump diet and exercise when it comes to body shape and style, a factor that can make it very difficult for some of us to achieve the figure we’d like.

Inherited traits, like large thighs or hips, flabby upper arms or excess fat around the waistline, can be very resistant to diet and exercise, remaining disproportionately large no matter how slim and toned the rest of the body becomes. While our grandparents may have had no choice but to admit defeat in such situations, today we have liposuction, a cosmetic procedure that can safely and effectively sculpt those problem areas away.

Liposuction is a procedure that uses suction to remove fatty tissue from beneath the skin. Your plastic surgeon will make very small incisions in the skin to access the problem area, then a cannula will be inserted through those incisions, which is attached to a suction device, to remove unwanted fat. Since this process reduces the number of fat cells in a problem area, the enhanced contour and appearance that is achieved by the procedure is generally a permanent one.

This cosmetic procedure is best suited for people who are in good general health and maintain a stable body weight, fairly close to the ideal weight for their height. Among the most common problem areas to be addressed with this procedure are troublesome pockets of body fat in the hips, thighs, abdomen, chest or buttocks. Other areas often treated include the upper arms, neck, calves and ankles. Since most patients have more than one problem area they would like to have contoured and defined, liposuction is often performed in multiple areas during the same surgical session.

LOST THOSE EXTRA POUNDS BUT STILL CAN’T FIND YOUR WAISTLINE? A TUMMY TUCK CAN HELP

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:03:25 GMT

Today’s society is more aware of the importance of health and fitness today than ever before, inspiring a great many people to work towards a healthy body weight. For many people, this means taking off a significant amount of weight, a goal that can take months or even years of hard work and unwavering determination to achieve. Unfortunately, many people get to the end of that long, hard road only to find their well-deserved sense of accomplishment marred by a very common side-effect of substantial weight loss – loose, hanging abdominal skin, a frustrating issue can generally be resolved with a tummy tuck procedure.

Losing a substantial amount of weight requires an extraordinary level of commitment, determination and hard work. Success requires more than just counting calories and skipping desert. People who lose a great deal of weight and keep it off have typically made significant, long-term lifestyle changes in terms of both dietary habits and activity levels, working steadfastly towards their health and fitness goals each and every day. Unfortunately, many people who lose a lot of weight find that the skin in the abdominal region, stretched by that previous weight gain, hasn’t snapped back, leaving areas of loose, sagging skin that spoils that slim, trim waistline they’ve been working so hard to achieve. This sort of situation is exactly why tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty procedures were developed.

Abdominoplasty is a cosmetic surgery procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdominal region and tightens loose abdominal muscles. In the process of doing that, cosmetic surgeons can often remove stretch marks that formed as weight gain occurred, further enhancing appearance. The result is a tighter, slimmer waistline and a flat, youthful tummy. People who in good general health and are at or near their ideal body-weight, yet have a protruding abdomen due to loose skin or weakened abdominal muscles, are the best candidates for tummy tuck surgery . Individuals who are still working towards their weight-loss goals or have a significant deposits of fat in the abdominal region may be better served by a two step approach, having liposuction done first, then proceeding with abdominoplasty after a healing period of several months.

So if you’ve been working hard to change your life and your figure, but those lost pounds haven’t helped you find that slim, trim waistline you’ve been looking for, don’t get discouraged. Once you’ve toned and tightened as much as you can with diet and exercise, a tummy tuck can give you just the nudge you need to clear that last, stubborn hurdle that stands between you and a figure that reflects the hard work you’ve put into reaching your fitness goals.

TUMMY TUCK: VANQUISH THAT STUBBORN POST-BABY BELLY-BULGE

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:03:23 GMT

Becoming a parent means making sacrifices, an inescapable fact of life. However, given today’s advances in cosmetic surgery, your figure doesn’t have to be one of those sacrifices. Among the most common changes a woman sees after giving birth is a tummy bulge that will not be budged by any amount of diet and exercise. For a woman who has worked hard to lose her pregnancy weight, this can be a very frustrating problem. Typically, it isn’t a weight problem at all, but a loosening of the abdominal muscles and skin due to stretching during pregnancy, issues that a tummy tuck can correct.

Many women who have given birth find that they are left with a belly bulge, even after diet and exercise has restored them to their pre-pregnancy weight. Many assume that post-baby fat deposits are the problem, but often, it is a more complicated issue. The abdominal wall, made up of muscles and connective tissues, is stretched during pregnancy, as is the abdominal skin. For some lucky women, the abdomen becomes tight and toned again on its own with healing.

However, for many women, muscles, connective tissue and abdominal skin do not return to their pre-pregnancy condition as readily. Women who have large babies or have had several pregnancies often experience more extensive weakening or stretching, producing a bulge that cannot be vanquished with diet and exercise. Fortunately, with a tummy tuck, the damage can be repaired, giving women with this problem the means to restore their pre-pregnancy figures.

A tummy tuck procedure, or abdominoplasty , is designed to firm and slim the abdominal area by correcting the underlying problems that are creating that stubborn bulge. Excess skin is removed, and if necessary, fat beneath the skin can be reduced and the muscles of the abdominal wall can be tightened, restoring a firmer, flatter and more youthful contour. Additionally, if there are stretch marks or scarring from a C-section present, these can often be removed or minimized.

To be a good candidate for tummy tuck surgery , a women should be in good overall health and at or near her ideal body weight. It is best if women wait to have the procedure done until after they have finished having children, since further pregnancies can undo improvements accomplished by the surgery. The procedure generally takes three to four hours and is done under general anesthesia. Recovery time is about six weeks for the average patient and significant activity limitations will be imposed during that time. However, once that period is over, patients are typically very pleased with the results, able to feel like themselves again with the return of that slim, trim waistline that disappeared with pregnancy.

LIPOSUCTION CAN HELP MANAGE MIDDLE-AGE SPREAD

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:03:21 GMT

If middle-age spread is creeping up on you in spite of a healthy diet and exercise plan designed to avoid it, you aren’t alone. It is quite common for people to begin putting on weight during this period of life, even as they maintain the same dietary habits and activity levels that have kept them in great shape for decades. Changes in body chemistry that occur during this phase of life, in both men and women, can cause body fat to accumulate in certain areas despite the best efforts at weight control, and those problem areas are often determined by genetics. Fortunately, when all else fails, middle age spread can be managed with liposuction.

Middle-age spread is more than just a cosmetic issue, especially for men and women who accumulate excess body fat in the abdominal region. As the waistline grows, so too does the risk of an array of health conditions, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes. While a healthy, balanced diet and plenty of daily exercise is the ideal solution to maintaining a great figure and optimal health, those measures just aren’t enough to keep middle-age spread at bay for everyone. For some, problem areas develop despite a health lifestyle, with pockets of stubborn body fat developing without obvious rhyme or reason.

For women, middle-age spread tends to appear around the hips, thighs, abdomen or upper arms, often following the same pattern seen in a woman’s mother, grandmother and other female relatives. Men tend to inherit areas of middle-age spread as well, generally developing trouble spots of excess fat around the waistline, chest or lower back in much the same manner as their older male family members. These areas often don’t respond readily to diet and exercise, but they can be reduced quite successfully in most cases with liposuction.

Liposuction is a cosmetic procedure in which a plastic surgeon uses a suction device to break up and remove fatty tissues from beneath the skin in problem areas. The procedure uses a tiny hollow tube, called a cannula, to suction the fat through tiny incisions in the skin, which are placed carefully in inconspicuous areas to minimize noticeable scarring. With the removal of that fatty tissue, surgeons sculpt those problem areas away, creating a slimmer, firmer and more youthful body contour.

So, while middle-age spread was once considered a harmless and inevitable consequence of reaching a certain age, today we know better. Middle-age spread is not, by any means, an issue that we have to accept – and it can have harmful health effects. For many, a proactive diet and exercise is enough to keep mid-life weight gain at bay. If that fails, liposuction can offer a helping hand .

WHAT IS INVOLVED IN EYELID SURGERY

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:03:17 GMT

It should come as no surprise that eyelid surgery is becoming one of the most popular procedures performed by American plastic surgeons. Much as our face is often the first place to display the signs of aging, our eyes are often the first part of our face to start looking its age. The skin of the upper and lower eyelids is some of the thinnest and most delicate facial skin, and is also subjected to more movement than skin elsewhere on the face.

It’s the skin around the eyes that conveys much of the emotion of our facial expressions, and between the demands placed on it by those expressions, the ravages of time and weather, and the depredations of gravity, it’s the skin in this area that really takes a beating. Eyelid surgery, often performed in combination with other procedures, can help tighten sagging eyelids and give your face a younger, more alert appearance.

The upper eyelid has a naturally occurring crease where the incision is usually made. Excess skin and fatty tissue are then removed to form a tighter, younger looking eyelid. For the lower eyelid, the most common incision placement is just below the eyelashes. After making this incision, the surgeon can remove excess fat and skin, and tighten the muscles that surround the eye as necessary. In both cases the incision placement along natural creases helps keep noticeable scarring to an absolute minimum.

This type of eyelid surgery , sometimes called an eye lift, will result in tighter eyelids and can help with age induced eyelid sagging, but cannot remove the wrinkles, crow’s feet, and laugh lines that can also plague this area. In order to remove these surface blemishes, an eye lift is often performed in conjunction with skin resurfacing. In cases where a patient is suffering from excessive sagging of the eyelid skin, or where a first eye lift was less successful than desired, a forehead lift is sometimes also performed.

This type of eyelid surgery is usually performed as an outpatient procedure, using local anesthetic and occasionally an oral sedative. The procedure takes between one and two hours, depending on whether it is the upper, lower, or both eyelids being operated on, and recovery generally takes one to two weeks. You will likely find that your vision is slightly blurry for a few days after the procedure as your eyes adjust to the new tension being placed on them, and some patients experience drier than normal eyes for a week or two.

If you are experiencing sagging, or puffy eyelids and would like to explore your options, call to book a consultation.

CHOOSING A SURGEON FOR YOUR EYELID SURGERY

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:03:15 GMT

The decision to undergo eyelid surgery can be a very difficult one. Plastic surgery has become increasingly commonplace, which has led to proliferation of plastic surgeons to choose from. This, in turn, can make it very difficult to choose the right surgeon.

Choosing the right surgeon is tremendously important, even if you are considering something as innocuous as standard liposuction. When the procedure you are interested in involves your eyes, however, your choice of surgeon takes on whole new levels of importance. While there is certainly a chance of complications in any surgical procedure, the consequences of a problem during a surgical procedure that deals with your eyes can be dire.

At a bare minimum, before undergoing eyelid surgery , it’s important that your plastic surgeon be certified by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Any medical doctor is legally entitled to perform most plastic surgical procedures in the US, but that doesn’t mean they are capable of doing so. Certification by the ASPS ensures that a surgeon is both qualified and competent to perform these procedures.

Another important consideration is the focus and personality of the surgeon. This is something that you can determine during a consultation. Your surgeon’s character and personality should instill trust, and you should feel that you can rely on her to have your best interests in mind. Her focus should be on your goals for your appearance rather than on this procedure, or that procedure. If you feel that this is not the case, it’s a sign that you should be looking elsewhere.

In addition to those two basic aspects, there are a few other things you can look for that make some surgeons stand out above the others. Not all medical schools are created equally, and where your surgeon got their education can make quite a bit of difference. Dr. Goldberg, for example, received her medical degree from Stanford.

Eyelid surgery , although generally performed without any major complications or issues, involves close proximity to a number of very delicate, and very important, pieces of your anatomy. In addition to your eyeball itself, there are also the tear ducts, a very high density of nerve bundles, and the cluster of very fine muscles that control the eyelids and surrounding tissue. This is where Dr. Goldberg’s specialization in reconstructive and micro-surgical techniques really comes into play.

Aging, and its effects on our appearance can be very stressful. Eyelid surgery should be a cure for that stress, not an additional cause. If you’re considering the possibility of an eye lift, book a consultation with Dr. Goldberg to discuss your options.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR FACE LIFT

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:03:13 GMT

Time takes its toll on us all, although where, and in what way varies quite a bit from person to person. For some of us, it’s the middle-age spread — where hips, and thighs, and tummy begin to widen, despite our best efforts of diet and exercise. For some of us it’s a sag where there used to be a bounce, or possibly some gray in the hair. For most of us, we show our age in our faces. It starts with a few wrinkles, here and there, and ends up with jowls and the appellation “ma’am”.

Thank heavens for the face lift .

What you should expect when undergoing a face lift procedure depends on a couple of factors; most notably your general state of health, and how drastic an effect you hope to achieve. These two things will have the most significant impact on how long the procedure takes, as well as how long you will need in order to recover fully, and what kind of results you can expect.

Generally the procedure, also known as a rhytidectomy (from the Greek for “wrinkle removal”), is divided into two categories —mini, and regular.

A mini face lift is most suitable for patients who are just starting to notice a loosening of the facial skin, or a blurring of the contour of their neck and jaw line. The procedure itself generally takes between three and four hours although, again, that can vary a bit from patient to patient. The procedure can be performed under either local anesthetic or general anesthetic, and is designed to result in a subtle effect and a quick recovery time for those who seek discretion. It’s entirely possible that coworkers, family, and friends will be unaware that you’ve had any cosmetic surgery done at all. You should be back to work within a few days.

The regular procedure can take anywhere from 4 to 6 hours to perform, and involves the use of general anesthetic. The full procedure is more suitable for those who want a more drastic result, though at the cost of a longer recovery time. Most patients can reasonably expect to be back to work within 1 to 3 weeks.

Regardless of how quickly or slowly your general recovery takes, it can be several weeks to a few months before your face settles into its new look.

If you’re finding yourself less and less happy with what time is doing to the way you look, and are considering a face lift , book a consultation with Dr. Goldberg to discuss your options. She’ll help you determine if your goals are realistic, and how to best achieve them.

CHOOSING YOUR FACE LIFT SURGEON

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:03:11 GMT

Although we all show our age in different ways, the face is often the first place where Father Time makes his presence felt. This is particularly true for those of us with an active, outdoor lifestyle.

Ironic, isn’t it?

Pharmacies and department store cosmetics departments are overflowing with anti-aging treatments; from wrinkle removers to skin hydrating gels and tighteners to full facial mud masks. These products can only do so much, however, and eventually most of us begin to consider taking more drastic measures — such as the face lift .

The face lift has become almost commonplace these days. It is, however, a procedure that is also constantly evolving, with new techniques being developed on an ongoing basis. This can make it difficult to choose the right plastic surgeon.

Your first step when choosing a plastic surgeon is to consider her skills, experience, and personality.

Yes, personality.

Plastic surgery is a very personal process that often has very significant and far-reaching effects on every aspect of your life. It is very important that your plastic surgeon be someone who can understand your needs, and your goals, and who is dedicated to helping you achieve them.

Personality is an important part of selecting your plastic surgeon, of course, but don’t forget to consider education and experience as well. Someone like Dr. Goldberg, who has a wealth of experience with a wide variety of procedures, and who has studied extensively and done research in reconstructive surgical techniques and microsurgery is vastly preferable to a surgeon who only performs face lift procedures , or who only knows one way to do it.

The fact is, although we often walk into our plastic surgeon’s office with a fairly good idea of what we want done, a good surgeon will discuss your goals and desired results with you in terms of your specific physiology, and help you determine the best way to meet those goals — which isn’t always via the procedures you were expecting.

Sometimes, a patient who is considering a face lift would be better served by minor eyelid surgery and some liposuction, but a surgeon who only performs a small handful of procedures will be unlikely to consider alternative options. A surgeon with limited experience in a variety of procedures therefore limits your options. A surgeon with a broad array of experience can often find a better way to achieve your goals.

The next step, once you’ve narrowed down your choice of cosmetic surgeon, is to book a consultation. The conversation and examination during your consultation will allow you to finalize your choice, and make sure you’re choosing the right surgeon for your needs.

BLEPHAROPLASTY TORRANCE: TIRED OF LOOKING TIRED? EYELID SURGERY CAN HELP

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:03:08 GMT

The eyes are the defining feature of the face and the one that many people consider their most attractive. Unfortunately, the eye area is also among the most vulnerable to the affects of aging. Often, wrinkles or bulging develop in the lower eyelid as one of the earliest signs of aging, as well as drooping, loose skin on upper eyelids, issues that can lend a worn, tired and aged appearance to the face. With eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, Torrance plastic surgeons can renew the eye area, restoring a fresh, youthful look.

In response to chronological aging or photo-aging, which is premature aging caused by damaging UV radiation, the skin gradually becomes thinner and loses its elasticity. The face is generally among the first areas to show these changes, since it is much more frequently exposed to damaging environmental factors, such as sun, extreme temperatures and pollution. The eyelids, both upper and lower, have skin that is thinner and more delicate than other areas of the face, making them more prone to damage.

Often, changes in the eye area are the first noticeable signs of aging to appear, as eyelids stretch and their supporting muscles weaken. This can lead to an accumulation of excess fat above and below the eyelids, causing eyebrows to sag, upper lids to droop and appear hooded, lower lids to appear loose or saggy, or puffy or wrinkly bags to appear under the eyes. Individuals may develop just one of these symptoms as an early sign of aging, a combination of several, or all of them, and while primarily a cosmetic issue, eyelid drooping can often become prominent enough to impair a person’s vision. Fortunately, with blepharoplasty, Torrance plastic surgeons can correct these issues.

Eyelid surgery can be done in just the upper or lower lid, or in both, depending upon the individual needs of each patient. In upper blepharoplasty, Torrance plastic surgeons repair loose, sagging skin and remove fatty deposits that appear as puffiness in the upper eyelid, restoring a natural, youthful contour. Lower blepharoplasty removes excess skin and fine lines in the lower eyelid, corrects bags under the eyes and tightens droopy lower lids when they have fallen to the point of showing white below the iris. In cases where brow drooping is severe, your surgeon my recommend combining blepharoplasty with a brow lift procedure for enhanced results.

For a delicate procedure like blepharoplasty, Torrance patients should be particularly vigilant in reviewing the credentials, skill and experience of the plastic surgeon who will perform the procedure. In the Torrance area, you’ll find none better qualified than Goldberg Plastic Surgery, a premier provider of blepharoplasty and a wide range of other cosmetic procedures and solutions to meet your anti-aging needs.

COSMETIC SURGERY TORRANCE: MITIGATING MISTAKES OF YOUTH

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:03:06 GMT

If you’re starting to see signs of premature aging, the consequences of taking less than optimal care of yourself in your youth, there is help available to mitigate many of those unwelcome changes. While our grandparents and parents had little choice but to live with such changes, with today’s advanced options in cosmetic surgery, Torrance plastic surgeons can minimize or even erase many of them, helping you look as young and vibrant as you feel.

Most people in their teens and 20s don’t spend much time worrying about how things they do and things they don’t might affect them as they reach their 30s and 40s. After all, midlife seems so far in the distance. Additionally, even he most fastidious guardians of health and well-being among those now reaching the age of 40 or beyond did not have the benefit of today’s knowledge on the mechanics of the aging process to aid in prevention.

Who knew twenty years ago that sunshine could wreak havoc on deep skin structure, breaking down collagen and elastin, altering skin cell DNA, stripping the skin of antioxidant protection and inhibiting natural skin cell renewal? Much of the research available today on the connections between poor dietary habits or chronic stress and aging wasn’t available then, nor were the effects of weight fluctuations on skin health, appearance and elasticity as commonly known as they are today.

While all that research into the aging process might not have been available in time to prevent premature aging, it can be of benefit to you in mitigating the damage. Skin sagging, for instance, caused by sun damage to deep skin layers, can be addressed in a number of ways by cosmetic surgery. Torrance surgeons can use dermal fillers to restore lost facial volume, plumping and smoothing the skin. Brow lifts and/or eyelid surgery can be used to correct sagging in the eye area that lends an aged or tired appearance. Performed by a talented surgeon, facelift or mini facelift procedures can smooth, tighten and contour the skin, providing dramatic, natural looking anti-aging results.

Of course, premature aging often shows in the body too, and there are many options available for correcting these issues. With cosmetic surgery, Torrance plastic surgeons can correct flabby, sagging upper arms, or lift and tighten sagging skin in the abdominal area, breasts, back, thighs or buttocks.

This is by no means an exhaustive list of the options available to reduce the signs of premature aging. From non-surgical procedures to cosmetic surgery, Torrance residents will find a wide range of effective anti-aging treatments offered at Goldberg Plastic Surgery. If you are unhappy with the toll time has taken on your face and body, don’t settle, schedule a consultation today.

WHEN ALL ELSE FAILS TO BUDGE THAT BULGE, LIPOSUCTION IN TORRANCE CAN HELP

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:03:02 GMT

If you’re frustrated by stubborn areas of body fat and are considering liposuction, Torrance plastic surgeons, you’ll be happy to know, have options that can help you resolve your problem. It is a rather common issue, by the way, even for individuals who work hard to stay fit. Of course, liposuction is no substitute for that hard work, but when diet and exercise have done all they can, it can help you clear that last hurdle to the slim, trim physique you’d like to see in the mirror.

Have you been struggling with a spare tire, love handles or a bit of a bulge in the hips, backside or tummy that just refuses to be worked off with exercise or reduced by dieting? Many of us have areas that are genetically predisposed to fat accumulation, stubborn pockets of fat that will remain even after all other areas of the body are slim, trim and toned. Typically, looking through the family picture album with an attentive eye will reveal similar issues in your parents, grandparents or perhaps and aunt or uncle. Sometimes these areas will appear early in life, presenting a lifelong challenge, or they may arrive on the scene as a person approaches middle-age, body fat accumulating in these areas mysteriously, with no changes in diet or exercise to account for it.

If this is the sort of issue you are experiencing, you’re just the type of person that can be helped by liposuction. Torrance patients who are in good general health and at or near their ideal body weight are the best candidates for both traditional liposuction procedures or newer, laser assisted options, like SmartLipo. Both offer permanent removal of fat and can target specific areas of fat accumulation. Traditional liposuction, which is the more invasive of the two, may be the best option under some circumstances. SmartLipo, however, can often offer comparable results with smaller incisions and less downtime, and as an added benefit, can offer some skin tightening benefits. Which of the two is the best means of meeting your body sculpting goals is a decision best made with your plastic surgeon, after a thorough evaluation of your individual circumstances.

With the help of liposuction, Torrance patients can finally win the battle of the bulge, even those particularly persistent and previously undefeatable love handles or saddle bags passed down through the family, plaguing one generation after another. However, it is important to remember that while it is a safe and effective procedure, liposuction is surgery. To minimize risk of complications, only an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon should perform liposuction. Torrance patients should also be sure to provide surgeons with accurate health information to ensure a thorough evaluation of risk factors.

LOOKING FOR A GREAT PLASTIC SURGEON IN TORRANCE?

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:03:00 GMT

Most of us wouldn’t trade the experience of raising a family for anything in the world, but we could certainly do without the changes bearing those children can cause in our bodies. Fortunately, these days, doing without them is very possible with the help of a talented plastic surgeon. Torrance mothers can rejuvenate their figures quite nicely today once they’ve finished having children with Mommy Makeover procedures, restoring a firm, smooth and youthful silhouette.

With a Great Plastic Surgeon, Torrance Moms Need Not Look Motherly

While every woman’s body responds in a very individual way to pregnancy and childbirth, there are some very common physical changes that many women find undesirable. The size, shape and volume of breasts often changes with childbirth, altering her overall appearance. The abdominal area often proves to be a trouble spot as well, with some bulging remaining long after a woman has returned to her pre-pregnancy weight. Some women may have a genetic predisposition to difficulty in reducing pockets of body fat that accumulate during pregnancy in areas like the hips, thighs, and abdomen, and stretch marks are a problem to some degree in the vast majority of women who have given birth.

Mommy Makeover is a term used to describe a range of cosmetic procedures that can be used in combination to address the rejuvenation goals of each patient. Rejuvenation of the breasts can be done with one of several breast procedures, depending upon your goals and the expert judgment of your plastic surgeon. Torrance mothers can choose a breast lift, which tightens skin stretched during pregnancy and breast feeding, removes stretch marks and eliminates sagging. For women who have lost breast volume, breast augmentation may be best. Women who experience combined sagging and volume issues may be best served by a breast lift with implants.

Women who have been left with a belly bulge after childbirth may have one or a combination of several issues standing in the way of a flat, firm tummy. Determining exactly where the problem lies will require an evaluation by your plastic surgeon. Torrance mothers may have that bulge due to stretched or damaged abdominal muscles, loose, stretched abdominal skin or a stubborn layer of fat left over from pregnancy weight gain. A tummy-tuck can correct loose skin or stretched muscles, while liposuction is commonly used to remove stubborn fat accumulations, not only in the tummy, but also in the hips, thighs or other problem areas.

So if the image you see in the mirror every morning looks more motherly than you’d like, make an appointment for a consultation at Goldberg Plastic Surgery. With the help of Dr. Goldberg, a skilled, experienced and board certified plastic surgeon, Torrance mothers have taken charge and reclaimed their figures, and you can too.

BREAST AUGMENTATION LONG BEACH: RECENT STUDY SHOWS SATISFIED PATIENTS ARE PLENTIFUL

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:02:56 GMT

Many women who are deeply unhappy with the size and/or appearance of their breasts hesitate to take the step that could resolve the issue; Breast augmentation. Long Beach area women often have doubts about the long-term outcome of augmentation, many of them fueled by exaggerations and myths about the possible short and long term effects of these procedures. Here are some facts, as outlined by a recent study, that should clear the air and dispel some of those myths, allowing women to make solid, informed decisions on breast augmentation.

In a prospective outcome study published in the May, 2013 issue of the journal “Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery,” researchers evaluated 225 women over a five year period who had undergone breast augmentation. Long Beach women who have been put off by misinformation about these procedures might be relieved to learn that, according the the results of that study, 98 percent of women reported satisfaction with outcome of their breast augmentation procedure in interviews that included questions about complications, recovery, results and psychological effects.

Among the common misconceptions about breast augmentation is that patients suffer extreme pain and long, drawn-out recoveries. However, the facts say otherwise, according to study findings, with the average patient reporting a pain score of 5.9 on a 10 point scale during recovery, using prescription pain medications for an average of 5 days, and able to return to work or other daily activities in 7 days. On average, patients felt fully recovered, or “back to normal,” 25 days after breast augmentation.

As for those rumors of widespread side effects, complications and patient dissatisfaction with the appearance of their breasts after breast augmentation, Long Beach women interested in enhancing their figures will be happy to hear that study results debunk them as well. Complication rates among the surveyed patients was 10 percent. Almost 40 percent reported nipple numbness after surgery, but in all but 2 percent, this fairly common side-effect resolved on its own. Improved self esteem after breast augmentation was reported by 92 percent of subjects, and 64 percent felt that their quality of life was enhanced by the procedure. Overall, 98 percent of the women in this study reported a that breast augmentation results met or exceeded their expectations.

Although cosmetic breast surgery, despite popular misinformation, is generally safe and effective, as with any surgical procedure, there is some risk of complications with breast augmentation. Long Beach patients can minimize those risks by carefully examining the credentials, skill and reputation of any plastic surgeon they are considering for their procedure before committing to surgery.

So there you have it, the real facts of the matter. Don’t let misinformation stand between you and a more attractive figure.

COSMETIC BREAST SURGERY MANHATTAN BEACH: LOOKING GREAT ISN’T JUST FOR YOUNGSTERS

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:02:54 GMT

Often, at the mention of cosmetic breast surgery, Manhattan Beach residents’ thoughts turn to very young women with the goal of creating the perfect beach body. However, the reality is that plastic surgeons see women of all ages and walks of life in their offices, inquiring about available methods to achieve a well-proportioned and attractive figure, correcting body issues that cause them to be less than satisfied with their personal or professional image. More mature women make up a significant proportion of those inquiries. In fact, according the the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average age of women who had breast augmentation procedures performed in 2012 was 34.

Many of these women have been satisfied with their figures in the past, but are distressed about the toll that aging or motherhood has taken on them. With cosmetic breast surgery, Manhattan Beach plastic surgeons can restore a woman’s shapely, youthful figure. Women who experience breast sagging due to pregnancy, breast feeding or gravity can often be helped with a breast lift procedure. Women who have lost breast volume over time or would simply prefer a bit more curve in their figures may find that a breast lift with implants better suits their needs.

Others have never quite been satisfied with their figures, but are just reaching a level of self-confidence and financial security that allows them to make their personal needs a priority. Often, these women have spent decades camouflaging a disproportionate bustline, whether it is smaller than they would like or larger. With cosmetic breast surgery, Manhattan Beach women can finally correct this situation to their personal satisfaction.

Several types of breast augmentation procedures can provide a remedy for the woman who would prefer an hourglass figure to her current pear shaped one, while breast reduction can offer relief to women who are self-conscious about breasts they feel are too large or suffer back and shoulder pain due to pendulous breasts. Both offer women the opportunity to finally free themselves of those cumbersome camouflage garments, finally able to choose their wardrobes according to what they want to wear, rather than what they need to hide body issues they perceive as flaws.

Of course, there are as many reasons for cosmetic surgery as there are unique individuals in this world. The point is that looking great is not a privilege reserved for people aged 18 to 25. Women in their mid 30, 40s, 50s and beyond have benefited from cosmetic breast surgery. Manhattan Beach plastic surgeons have helped a great many mature women achieve a figure that they are pleased with as they look in the mirror, a feeling of satisfaction that typically enhances self-assurance and quality of life.

FEMALE PLASTIC SURGEON SOUTH BAY: COMFORT, QUALITY AND KEEN AESTHETIC PERCEPTION

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:02:50 GMT

Plastic surgery is a very personal experience, much more so than even the most intimate aspects of routine medical care. While a woman may be quite uncomfortable when she must bare all for a gynecological exam, a consultation with a plastic surgeon can be, for many, an infinitely more invasive experience. Often, women see a plastic surgeon in order to correct body issues they have been self-conscious about for years, placing them in the position of baring not just their bodies, but long-held and very private insecurities as well. With a female plastic surgeon, South Bay women often find the experience much more comfortable, enabling the open communication and cooperation necessary for optimal treatment results.

Exceptional results in any type of cosmetic procedure depends on a feeling of trust and partnership between surgeon and patient. The patient must feel comfortable enough to openly express her desires and goals, a process that often involves disclosing a great deal of very personal information. A woman interested in enlarging breasts that have been a source of embarrassment for her, or perhaps reducing disproportionately large ones that have caused both physical and emotional pain, may not be able to express her needs as freely as she should with a male surgeon. While it’s certainly true that not all women feel awkward or uncomfortable baring their souls to male surgeons, with a female plastic surgeon, South Bay women who do often feel more secure throughout the process, confident that their surgeon understands their issues from a woman’s perspective.

Even for the most confident patient, there are advantages to be had from the unique perspective and insight of a female plastic surgeon . South Bay patients who consult with a number of surgeons before choosing one – as all well-informed medical consumers should – often find that the office and manner of a skilled and talented female surgeon offers a distinctly different atmosphere than male-run practices. The differences noted have included a warmer, more welcoming atmosphere, greater attention to detail, more thorough explanations of possibilities and procedures, a female perspective on beauty, and the unique insight a woman brings to the table in discussing, understanding and resolving women’s appearance concerns.

If you prefer to discuss your particular appearance issues with a female plastic surgeon, South Bay area patients will find none more skilled and talented – male or female – than Dr. Goldberg of Goldberg Plastic Surgery. A highly-trained and board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Goldberg is a premier provider of cosmetic and reconstructive services, offering variety of specialized procedures including breast, body, face, hand, and skin procedures to patients in the in Long Beach, as well as the Manhattan Beach, Palos Verdes, Redondo Beach, and Torrance areas.

FAT GRAFTING TO THE FACE: THE NEW ERA IN FACIAL REJUVENATION

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:02:48 GMT

In recent years, plastic surgeons have come to understand that facial aging is not attributable to gravity induced droopiness alone, but it is also a consequence of volume loss caused by soft tissue and bony atrophy. Over the past 10 years, fat grafting or fat transfer to the face has become popular technique in facial rejuvenation. Fat grafting is a popular method for facial rejuvenation because it is an ideal filler. The following qualities make fat an ideal filler: It is your own tissue and naturally biocompatible. It is available sufficient quantities in most patient. It is naturally integrated into your own tissue and can potentially become permanent. It could be removed if necessary.

Fat grafting to the face is an art that requires meticulous technique and expertise. Good retention of the harvested fat requires proper harvesting technique and atraumatic handling of the fat during the purification process. Lastly, the technique of transferring the fat requires small layering of fat into different tissue planes in a refine fashion. All three steps of harvesting, fat purification, and transfer technique lead to good retention of the transferred fat and aesthetic result.

Therefore, fat grafting is a technique in the correction of aging deformity of the 21st century. It is used to correct hollow eyes, sunken cheeks, deepening nasolabial folds, and marrionnette lines. Fat grafting has been shown to improve the quality of the skin where the fat was injected. The wrinkles seems to soften, the pore size decreases, and the pigmentation also improves with time. The best part of the fat grafting is that it could be done as an in office procedure under local anesthesia.

Schedule your consultation with Dr. Goldberg for a new youthful and natural you.

BRAZILLIAN BREAST AUGMENTATION: A NEW TECHNIQUE OF BREAST AUGMENTATION IN TORRANCE AND BEVERLY HILLS

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:02:44 GMT

The breast implant is one of the most important device ever developed in the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery. Despite more than 60 years of technological advances in breast implants, the revision rate for breast augmentation is still high at a rate of 24% at 4 years and 36 % at 10 years. The reasons for revision are often due to soft tissue related problems which include capsular contracture and inadequate overlying tissue causing visibility of the implants, a condition plastic surgeons called “soft tissue failure”. Simply put, one of the major drawbacks of breast implants is their unnatural appearance when the overlying soft tissue volume is out of balance with implant volume. This often occurs in thin woman with minimal breast tissue who chooses large implant sizes. For these patients, the early breast augmentation result often have unnaturally tight, high and rounded breasts. Overtime, the pressure of the large implant causes atrophy of an already thin breast tissue leading to ptosis (saggy breasts) and rippling deformity (visibility of the implants). These deformities are extremity difficult to correct due to inadequate soft tissue envelope.

Fat grafting to the breast has seen significant rise in popularity since 2008. Therefore, fat grafting as an adjunct to breast augmentation – also known as composite breast augmentation, is a natural evolution in aesthetic breast surgery over the past 3 years. Now women with thin soft tissue who desires large breast implants, are perfect candidate for composite breast augmentation. In the composite breast augmentation surgery, the implants are placed in the either submuscular, subfascial or subglandular plane, and the fat is grafted throughout the upper and lower poles of the breasts to provide additional soft tissue coverage to the implant. A precise examination is performed on each patient by Dr. Goldberg. Dr. Goldberg will note symmetry of the breasts and chest, breast tissue density, and the thickness of the breast tissue. The patients selected for composite breast augmentation are thin with body mass index under 20. The fat is often harvested from the hip and flank region in these thin patients. The fat is harvested using 3mm diameter cannulas. The average amount of fat harvested from the thigh is 320 cc (ranges from 150 cc to 2000cc). For the implant devices, Dr. Goldberg often uses textured cohesive gel implants. The implants are placed through a small 4cm incision in the breast crease. The fat is then layered in the subcutaneous tissue plane using a small blunted cannula, also known as lipofilling. On average, about 50 to 100 cc of fat is used in each breast to cover the implant in the superomedial transitional zones also known as the cleavage area of the breasts. The smaller amount of fat is placed in the lower pole of the breasts. Implants and fat, working together, provide the best attributes each as to offer: the core volume projection of implants and the natural look and feel of fat. Dr. Goldberg named composite breast augmentation as the “Brazillian breast augmentation” and she believes that this is the new cutting edge in breast augmentation.

COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS REGARDING BRCA1, BRCA2, CHEK2 AND THEIR RELATIONSHIP TO CANCER.

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:02:42 GMT

Many of us are familiar with Angelina Jolie, but you may be unfamiliar with her familial and genetic mutations. Angelina Jolie has a BRCA1 gene mutation and this mutation in her DNA puts her at a higher risk of developing breast or ovarian cancer. Jolie lost her mother, grandmother and aunt to cancer and in an attempt to prevent the same fate for herself she chose to have a prophylactic double mastectomy, meaning she had both breasts removed even though she hadn’t been diagnosed with breast cancer. In addition she also had a hysterectomy, removal of her ovaries and fallopian tubes. While the BRCA1 mutation may be the most known mutation due to Jolie’s openness about her journey there are many other mutations that should be discussed such as the BRCA2 and CHEK2 mutation.

WHAT IS BRCA1, BRCA2 AND CHEK2?

BRCA1, BRCA2 and CHEK2 are all genes that produce proteins that repair damaged DNA that may cause uncontrolled division of cells. For this reason they are often called tumor-suppressor genes because they prevent cells from growing and dividing by regulating the cell cycle. When there is a mutation in these genes, there may be irregularities in the cell cycle that lead to abnormal cell growth, leading to tumors.

WHAT TYPE OF CANCERS DOES BRCA 1, BRCA 2 AND CHEK2 MUTATIONS PUT YOU IN RISK OF?

BRCA1:

Breast cancer, including an aggressive form called Triple Negative Breast Cancer
Ovarian cancer
Pancreatic cancer
Prostate cancer

BRCA2:

Breast cancer
Ovarian cancer
Melanoma
Pancreatic cancer
Prostate cancer

CHEK2:

Breast cancer
Ovarian cancer
Prostate cancer
Colon cancer
Kidney cancer
Thyroid cancer
Brain tumors
Osteosarcoma

HOW ARE YOU TESTED FOR ONE OF THESE MUTATIONS?

Testing is done through a simple blood test or through a saliva test for those unable to provide a blood sample.

AT WHAT AGE CAN YOU BEGIN GETTING TESTED FOR THESE MUTATIONS?

Typically individuals are tested beginning at the age of 25 for such mutations. *Genetic testing for BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations is typically not recommended for children younger than 18 due to the psychological impact such news may have on them.

YOU TESTED POSITIVE FOR A BRCA1 OR BRCA2 MUTATION, NOW WHAT?

If you’re in your 20s you’ll most likely:

Have an annual breast MRI begins at age 25 or 10 years younger than the earliest age of breast cancer diagnosis in your family (if earlier).

If you’re in your 30s you’ll most likely:

Get a mammogram once a year in addition to a breast MRI. These two screenings should switch off every 6 months.

Regardless of age you will most likely visit a breast specialist and/or surgeon to discuss your preventative options such as cancer prevention surgery and hormone therapies.

THE RISK REDUCING OPTIONS ARE:

SURGICAL

Bilateral risk-reducing mastectomy – which consists of having both breasts removed to reduce the risk of breast cancer
If a patient opts to have a mastectomy there are breast reconstruction options to restore her breasts such as an implant based reconstruction or a flap reconstruction.
Bilateral risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy- which consists of having the ovaries and fallopian tubes removed to reduce the risk of ovarian cancer.

NON-SURGICAL

Taking medications (such as tamoxifen and raloxifene, and aromatase inhibitors) to lower the chance of developing breast or ovarian cancer. These medications work by blocking the estrogen receptors; however, there are side effects associated with these medications such as hot flashes and increased risk of blood clots

YOU TESTED POSITIVE FOR A CHEK2 MUTATION, NOW WHAT?

Similarly to individuals with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation, you will likely have cancer screenings more often than most people to find the cancer as early as possible. Some of these screenings are: MRI’s and mammograms of your breasts and colonoscopies because unlike BRCA1 and BRCA2, CHEK2 increases the risk of colon cancer.

DO ANY OF THESE MUTATIONS AFFECT YOUR CHANCES OF HAVING CHILDREN?

There is no clear evidence that having a mutation in any of these genes affects fertility. However, as previously mentioned, removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes can be used as a preventative measure to ovarian cancer, but this treatment also eliminates the ability of a woman to get pregnant naturally. Even with removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes there are still methods for women to get pregnant through in vitro fertilization (IVF).

I HAVE ONE OF THE GENE MUTATIONS, BUT ALREADY HAVE CHILDREN, HOW DOES THIS AFFECT THEM?

Because these mutations are inherited, there is a 50% chance that your children inherited a BRCA1, BRCA2 or CHEK2 gene mutation and will have to consider the information that has been presented earlier in this blog.

While at home genetic testing, such as 23andMe, Myriad and Color Genomics, has provided valuable insight into our health, we understand finding out you have a mutation placing you at risk of cancer is stressful and Goldberg Plastic Surgery is here to accompany you on your journey.

Dr. Goldberg is a breasts reconstructive plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills, California specializing in the DIEP flap and other state-of-the-art breast reconstruction procedures. Our office will work with different insurance plans and patients across and outside the US. Please call (310) 325-0310 to learn more and book a consultation.

WHAT ARE YOUR SURGICAL TREATMENT OPTIONS ONCE YOU RECEIVE A DIAGNOSIS OF BREAST CANCER?

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:02:40 GMT

The surgical options for breast cancer depend in large part on the tumor size and location of the tumor. Your breast surgeon will help guide in making a decision as to which option is best for you.

The timing of the breast reconstruction will be discussed with your plastic reconstructive surgeon. We will guide you through the process that will yield the best aesthetic result. The benefits of immediate breast reconstructions are two folds. One, it avoids the trauma of missing a breast. Furthermore, it gives a superior aesthetic result especially when it is performed with nipple sparing mastectomy.

Delayed breast reconstruction is performed as a separate procedure after mastectomy. It yields an inferior aesthetic result and more scar. However, it is delayed it a patient requires post mastectomy radiation and chemotherapy. I hope this information is helpful.

Dr. G

Dr. Goldberg is a breasts reconstructive plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills, California specializing in the DIEP flap and other state-of-the-art breast reconstruction procedures. Our office will work with different insurance plan and our patients across and outside the US. Please call (310) 325-0310 to learn more about your breast reconstruction options.

WILL MY BREAST RECONSTRUCTION BE COVERED BY MY MEDICAL INSURANCE?

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:02:37 GMT

4 Minute Read:

Dr. Goldberg is often asked by her patients whether their breast reconstruction will be covered by medical insurance. The resounding answer is yes.

This is according to The Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act (WHCRA) which was enacted into law on October 21, 1998. The WHCRA helps protect many women with breast cancer who choose to have their breasts rebuilt (reconstructed) after a mastectomy. Mastectomy is surgery to remove all or part of the breast. This federal law requires most group insurance plans that cover mastectomies to also cover breast reconstruction. The United States Departments of Labor and Health and Human Services oversee this law.

Most importantly, there are additional protections under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). For plan years (a plan year can be any 12-month period that the insurer chooses) beginning on or after January 1, 2014, a group health plan generally cannot limit or deny benefits relating to a pre-existing condition.

The WHCRA applies to group health plans, health insurance companies, and HMOs, as long as the plan covers medical and surgical costs for mastectomy. Therefore, most major commercial insurances are required to cover breast reconstruction after mastectomy.

WILL MY MEDICAL INSURANCE BE ABLE TO TAKE PEOPLE OFF THEIR PLANS SO THAT THEY DON’T HAVE TO PAY BREAST RECONSTRUCTION BENEFITS?

No. The WHCRA does not allow insurance plans and insurance companies to kick people out of the plan or keep them from enrolling or renewing their coverage under the plan to avoid WHCRA requirements. Do insurance plans give doctors incentives to discourage women from having breast reconstruction after mastectomy?

No. The WHCRA does not allow insurance plans and insurance issuers to penalize doctors or lead them to provide care in a way that does not support the WHCRA. Nor does it allow insurance plans to reward doctors who do not encourage their patients to look into breast reconstruction. In fact, the WHCRA requires your medical plans to inform you that breast reconstruction is covered after mastectomy. Furthermore, many states require medical practitioner to inform patients that breast reconstruction is covered as part of breast cancer treatment.

I HAVE BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH BREAST CANCER AND PLAN TO HAVE A MASTECTOMY. WHAT KIND OF BENEFITS CAN I EXPECT FROM MY INSURANCE UNDER THE WHCRA ACT/LAW?

Under the WHCRA, group health plans, insurance companies, and HMOs that offer mastectomy coverage must also provide coverage for reconstructive surgery after mastectomy. This coverage includes reconstruction of the breast removed by mastectomy, reconstruction of the other breast to give a more balanced look, breast reconstruction revision if the reconstruction results in complications or unsatisfactory results , and treatment of physical complications at all stages of the mastectomy, including lymphedema .

This federal law sets a minimum requirement so that women can have breast reconstruction after mastectomy, even if they live in states that do not make insurance companies provide this coverage.

I HAVE BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH BREAST CANCER AND PLAN TO HAVE A MASTECTOMY. HOW WILL THE WHCRA AFFECT MY BENEFITS?

Since the enactment of the affordable care act in 2016, a woman cannot be denied her health insurance coverage due to preexisting conditions, such as a diagnosis of breast cancer. Together with the WHCRA, a woman is afforded the benefit of breast cancer reconstruction and its revision for the duration of her medical condition.

HOW DO I GET MY INSURANCE TO COVER MY BREAST RECONSTRUCTION OR BREAST RECONSTRUCTION REVISION?

First you will get an initial consultation with a plastic surgeon who specializes in breast reconstruction or with Dr. Goldberg. If you are deemed a candidate for breast reconstruction, the physician or Dr. Goldberg will submit a request for authorization of coverage for the procedure. We will also submit the necessary documentations showing the physical deformity and pain exhibited by the patient’s condition. This process may take anywhere from 4-6 weeks. Once it is approved, Dr. Goldberg’s staff will let you know what are your deductible or out of pocket expenses for the whole process. The insurance will cover your hospital stay and the procedure required for the breast reconstruction or breast reconstruction revision. Every patient should expect transparency and are clear of what is your out of pocket expense will be.

ARE HEALTH PLANS REQUIRED TO TELL ME ABOUT WHCRA BENEFITS?

Yes. Both health plans and health insurance issuers are required to tell you about WHCRA benefits. They must do this when you enroll and every year after that. The annual notice may be sent by itself or it may be included in almost any written communication by the plan or insurer, such as newsletters, annual reports, policy renewal letters, enrollment notices, and others. Enrollment notices may even be a phone number or web address from which to get more information about coverage.

IS LUMPECTOMY THE RIGHT TREATMENT FOR ME?

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:02:35 GMT

5 Minute Read:

I have been diagnosed with breast cancer and given two choices, mastectomy and lumpectomy? Which is the right surgical choice for me?

WHAT SHOULD YOU KNOW ABOUT BREAST CANCER STATISTICS?

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer for women in the United States (following skin cancer). 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. Due to screening mammograms and improved personalized treatment options, breast cancer survival rates have been steadily increasing in the last 10 years.

The overall five-year survival rate is 100% for stage 0 and 1, 93% for stage II, 72% for stage III, and 22% for stage IV.

WHAT ARE MY TREATMENT OPTIONS?

Surgery is the choice treatment for most early-stage breast cancer patients. Surgery is a curative treatment option done along with chemotherapy, radiation, or hormonal treatment options.

Once a woman is given a diagnosis of breast cancer, she is referred to an oncologic breast surgeon. The breast surgeon will advise her whether she is a candidate for a lumpectomy or mastectomy along with lymph node biopsy.

Lumpectomy is a partial removal of the breast containing the breast cancer whereas mastectomy is the complete removal of breast tissue. The choice between these two surgical options is individualized and based on medical recommendations along with the patient’s personal preference.

Mastectomy is still a very common surgical treatment for large size breast tumor.

Breast conservation therapy (lumpectomy) is becoming a common surgical treatment in breast cancer even in larger tumor size due to effectiveness of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (chemotherapy given prior to surgery in an attempt to reduce the tumor size).

Therefore, many patients are given two options of lumpectomy or mastectomy as part of their cancer surgical treatment.

Patients will often ask Dr. Mytien Goldberg which surgical option is the right one for them.

This blog will help guide her patients and other breast cancer patients in their decisions considering breast cancer recurrence, chronic pain, cosmetic results, surgical side effects, radiation side effects, breast reconstruction success rate, and overall patient’s satisfaction.

WHAT SHOULD A PATIENT KNOW ABOUT LUMPECTOMY?

A patient has to understand that with lumpectomy, postoperative radiation is part of the treatment. Studies have shown lumpectomy without radiation has a much higher cancer recurrence rate compare with lumpectomy with radiation (39.2% versus 14.3%).

Radiation to the remaining breast tissue will result in future breast atrophy, scarring, and changes in surrounding tissue including the skin, lung, and heart.

Studies on patient’s reported outcomes showed patient’s satisfaction depends on the volume of the lumpectomy. The larger the lumpectomy volume, the lower the satisfaction rate.

You should discuss with your breast surgeon regarding the anticipated size of the lumpectomy in relation to your overall breast size. Studies have shown lumpectomy volume of greater than 100 gm, or breast to resected tissue ratio of exceeding 10:1 will likely result in poor cosmetic results.

Up to 30% of patients undergoing lumpectomy reported residual deformities, such as indentation, scar retraction resulting in pain, breast asymmetry, nipple areola retraction, and loss of breast volume as illustrated in the case below.

*This patient underwent left breast lumpectomy without reconstruction and subsequent whole breast radiation. You can see the nipple retraction, scar indentation, breast asymmetry, and painful scar tissue in the lateral chest wall from radiation.

* Patient with left breast cancer underwent left breast lumpectomy and reconstruction with local tissue rearrangement, resulting in a small lift.

Tumor location also affects the cosmetic outcomes of lumpectomy. Tumor located in centrally or medial quadrant tend to have the worst aesthetic results.

The best candidate for lumpectomy will be relatively small tumor size to breast ratio, breast ptosis (sagginess), and large breast size.

In these patients, lumpectomy combined with reconstruction of the lumpectomy defect using local breast tissue will yield a pleasing aesthetic result.

This technique is becoming more and more popular as illustrated in the case below. The patient had left breast cancer with the tumor located in the upper outer quadrant.

Lumpectomy was performed 10 days prior to the definitive reconstruction using local tissue rearrangement. The reasons for performing lumpectomy prior to reconstruction is to ensure all the tumor was removed and negative margins are obtained.

It is important to get a second opinion and involve a plastic surgeon early on at the time of breast cancer diagnosis. Your lumpectomy defect can be reconstructed using your own remaining breast tissue

If you have chosen lumpectomy and do not like your results or are having residual asymmetry, pain, and scar tissue, there are several option of correcting the lumpectomy deformity. One of the most common procedure will be lumpectomy defect reconstruction using your own skin and fat from anywhere in your body.

*As illustrated in patient #1, she presents to Dr. Goldberg for with left breast pain and significant deformity. She underwent lumpectomy defect reconstruction using her own abdominal tissue called the DIEP flap.

HAVE YOU BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH BREAST CANCER? LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUR RECONSTRUCTION OPTIONS

If you are recently diagnosed with breast cancer and are looking for a plastic surgeon to perform your breast reconstruction , Dr. Goldberg is your plastic surgeon.

And if you have had breast cancer and are dissatisfied with your reconstruction results, the first step is to schedule a comprehensive in-office consultation with Dr. Goldberg . After the exam, Dr. Goldberg can create an individualized plan to address your specific concerns and answer any questions you may have.

For many women in southern California and around the country, Dr. Mytien Goldberg is the plastic surgeon of choice for breast reconstruction, revision, and correction procedures.

WHAT IS A “LOVE HANDLE” FLAP OR LUMBAR ARTERY PERFORATOR (LAP) FLAP IN BREAST RECONSTRUCTION?

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:02:32 GMT

4 Minute Read:

The commonly known love handle flap — also called the lumbar artery perforator flap (LAP) — is composed of fat and skin with its own blood supply, nourished by the lumbar artery perforator. This flap is harvested from the lower back or flank region, just below the bikini or undergarment line.

Among its benefits, harvesting the fat and skin in this region will improve the waistline.

The love handle flap or LAP flap is a great flap option for breast reconstruction in patients who previously had a tummy tuck where the DIEP flap is no longer an option.

Dr. Goldberg also uses the LAP flap in patients who have had a failed DIEP flap in the past or patients who’ve had a previous tummy tuck or major abdominal surgery, whereby the blood supply to the DIEP flap skin territory was injured.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF THE LOVE HANDLE OR LAP FLAP ?

Harvesting the love handle flap will result in a scar that sits in the crease of your lower back. It yields a slimmer waistline and removes the muffin top that most women desire to be removed anyway. It also lifts the buttocks, creating a firmer and lifted backside.

In summary, the LAP flap will create:

Scar on the lower back
Slimmer waistline and silhouette of the lower back
Lifted buttock
All-natural tissue breast reconstruction

WHO ARE THE CANDIDATES FOR THE LOVE HANDLE OR LAP FLAP?

The “love handle” or the LAP flap is a great option for autologous breast reconstruction in women with skin laxity and fat deposit in their flanks and those who had previous major abdominal surgery whereby the blood supply to the DIEP flap region was injured.

Furthermore, LAP flap is also a great option in patients who have had a previous tummy tuck and in patients who have a failed attempt of DIEP flap in the past.

In patients with a BRCA gene mutation (who are often young and have minimal laxity of the lower abdominal tissue), the LAP flap is an excellent reconstructive option.

WHAT ARE THE DISADVANTAGES OF THE LOVE HANDLE OR LAP FLAP?

The nourishing blood supply to the LAP flap is short and of a smaller caliber than that of the DIEP flap. Thus, a vein and artery graft may be needed to achieve the adequate length and caliber needed for the reconstruction.

Envision the vein and artery graft as an extension cord for the flap. Furthermore, changes in surgical positioning of the patient is required during the harvesting and in-setting of the flap. Therefore, the surgery can take longer than the typical DIEP flap procedure.

Overall, a recent study examining the satisfaction rate of women undergoing breast reconstruction using LAP flap showed a high satisfaction rate using the breast Q questionnaire as a measuring tool.

Furthermore, these patients would undergo the same surgery if given the choice and would recommend it to other women as an option for breast reconstruction.

INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE?

Dr. Mytien Goldberg is a leading female plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills , specializing in breast reconstruction and breast reconstruction revision. Recognized by her peers as one of the most skilled microsurgeons, she is also known for her attention to detail, high-caliber surgical skills and beautiful, natural results.

For women seeking breast reconstruction or breast reconstruction revision, Dr. Goldberg offers a wide spectrum of flap reconstruction using different parts of your body to recreate natural breasts, including DIEP, SGAP, PAP, LAP, LTP flaps, and hybrid reconstructions. She has been in practice for over 10 years and is a faculty member with the division of plastic surgery at UCLA David Geffen School of medicine. She was awarded the teacher of the year by UCLA chief residents for her mentorship and teaching.

If you have recently been diagnosed with breast cancer and are looking for a plastic surgeon to perform your breast reconstruction, Dr. Goldberg is your plastic surgeon.

And if you have had breast cancer and are dissatisfied with your reconstruction results, the first step is to schedule a comprehensive in-office or video consultation with Dr. Goldberg. After the exam, Dr. Goldberg can create an individualized plan to address your specific concerns and answer any questions you may have.

For many women in southern California and around the country, Dr. Mytien Goldberg is the plastic surgeon of choice for breast reconstruction, revision, and correction procedures.

MAKING THE DECISION TO HAVE YOUR IMPLANTS REMOVED DUE TO SILICONE BREAST IMPLANT ILLNESSES.

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:02:29 GMT

Recently Danica Patrick , a former NASCAR car driver, opens up about illness she has attributed to her silicone breast implants . According to Danica, she got her breasts implant in 2014 because “she wants to have it all”. Like so many women in our early 20s and 30s, Danica admitted to having body image issues and has openly discussed it on her social media page. She was fit but “did not have boobs” and decided to have breast augmentation and for a while she loved them. However, “the wheels came off” 2 years ago when she noticed her menstrual cycle was irregular, weight gains, and her hair and skin changes. She got every clinical tests under the sun and listed her symptoms which included the following:

Hypothyroidism, heavy metal toxicity, dysiosis (gut imbalance); severe leaky gut, hypoglyemic, low estrogen, adrenal fatigue, swollen lymph nodes in her neck, and dizziness, achy hands, dry skin and scalp, and finally capsular contracture. She made the ultimately decision to have her implants removed . As documented on her social media page, she immediately feels better with “more energy and ability to take deeper breath.”

What Is “Breast Implant Illness” Or “BII”?

BII is used to describe a constellation of symptoms reported by some women following reconstruction or augmentation with breast implants.

They include, but are not limited to, fatigue, problems with memory or concentration (“brain fog”), joint and muscle pain, hair loss, rash,

inflammation weight changes and anxiety/depression. The appearance of such symptoms has been reported with all types of breast implants regardless of filling, shape or surface characteristic, and their onset anywhere from immediately after implantation to years later.

The largest retrospective cohort study examining connective tissue disease in relation to silicone breast implants published in 2018 by Conroneos et al., looked at over 99,000 women with silicone breast implants with a follow up period of 2-7 years. The study found statistically significant increased incidence of autoimmune/rheumatic disorders, Sjogren’s syndrome, systemic sclerosis, and sarcoidosis in women with silicone breast implants.

Many women after years of experiencing BII symptoms that no clinical tests or doctors could give an explanation for them, have decided to have their breast implants removed. It is a personal choice. When consulting a patient who has decided on removal of their breast implants, a plastic surgeon should council patients on the risks and benefits of breast implants explantation procedure as well as the physical defects often left following breast implant removal.

Breast implants removal involves not only removing the implant itself but also the removal of the capsule (scar tissue) that is formed around the implant.

Not all breast implants explantations are created equal. There are four different types of breast implant explantation.

En bloc explanation – this is when the plastic surgeon leaves the capsule tissue intact on the breast implant and removes and capsule and implant as one unit. This is often performed through an incision on the inframammary fold of the breast because it allows for better visualization. More and more women seeking en bloc explantation for potentially less contamination of the silicone. Routinely, Dr. Goldberg performs en bloc explantation in ruptured implants or implants with thick calcified capsule.
Explant with total capsulectomy – the plastic surgeon removes the implants and then removes all capsule tissue. This is not necessarily performed as one piece or en bloc fashion. This is the best option when the implants are very large which can be very difficult to perform as en bloc procedure.
Explant with partial capsulectomy – the plastic surgeon removes the implants and then removes a portion of the capsule tissue. Often the posterior capsule on the chest wall is left behind due to the risks of injuring the lung or removal of the posterior capsule can result in chest wall deformity. This is rarely performed by Dr.Goldberg. It is only in rare instances whereby the capsule is densely adherent to the ribs and removing the capsule can potentially injure the lung creating pneumothorax.
Open capsulotomy – capsule or scar tissue surrounding the implant is released surgically and left in the patient. As a rule, Dr. Goldberg does not leave behind the capsule when performing implant explantation.

In Cases Of ALCL Or Ruptured Implants With Thick Calcified Capsule, A Total Capsulectomy Is Mandated.

In writing this blog, Dr. Goldberg hopes to give women more information regarding breast implant illness and available up to date scientific data. If a woman chooses to remove her breast implants it is important to find a board-certified plastic surgeon with expertise in breast surgery and breast reconstruction. It is the job of the plastic surgeon to support his or her patient’s decision by providing up to date facts regarding health risks associated with silicone breast implants and the removal procedure.

WHAT IS THE BEST IMPLANT POCKET FOR BREAST AUGMENTATION?

Sun, 26 Nov 2023 08:02:27 GMT

Breast augmentation is the most popular cosmetic procedure performed worldwide each year. It is popular due to high patient’s satisfaction with the procedure including women reporting improved body image, self-confidence, and overall sexual wellbeing. In a breast augmentation consult, I am often asked this question by my patients, “I was told by a plastic surgeon “below the muscle” is the best implant pocket for breast augmentation. Is that true?”

Foremost, choosing the tissue plane i.e. implant pocket for implant placement is one of the key factors in breast augmentation. Generally speaking, there are 3 types of implant pocket techniques in breast augmentation

Submuscular pocket technique – Dual plane technique
Subglandular pocket technique
Subfascial pocket technique

A. Submuscular Pocket Technique – Dual Plane Technique

In this technique, the implant is placed behind the pectoralis major. This is accomplished by releasing the muscle origin at breast crease on the chest wall and along medial aspect of the rib cage up to the level of the fourth rib. This maneuver allows the muscle to window shade up on the chest wall as illustrated in image 1. The implant superior pole will be covered by the pectoralis major muscle and the lower pole of the implant is cover by the breast tissue, thus term dual -plane. (image 2)

Image 1.

Image 2.

This technique is favored by most plastic surgeons for the following reasons:

Increasing soft tissue coverage of the upper pole of the breasts results in less rippling and prevent shelve like appearance at the top of the breast where the implant meets the chest wall
This technique has a reported lower rate of capsular contracture around 3 to 8
Conceptually in the dual plane pocket, the implant sits in the subglandular pocket on the lower half of the breast which allows the implant to expand the deflated skin envelope without being limited by the pectoralis major muscle, avoiding a snoopy deformity or double bubble deformity. Snoopy deformity or double bubble deformity is characterized by breast tissue that appears to slide off the implant as appear in this picture. However, the patient in this picture had a dual plane submuscular breast augmentation

There are definite draw backs with the Dual Plane technique . Here are the main draw backs:

There is more postoperative pain after the procedure due to the manipulation of the muscle. In some very active women with very well developed chest muscles, they do complain of long term chest discomfort and weakness.
Animation deformity is an abnormal movement of the breast and implant due to contraction of the chest pectoralis major muscle. This is an unnatural and unnerving experiences for most women with subpectoral breast augmentation. It is not often seen in two dimensional before and after pictures. It is only evidence with movement of the arms and chest. It is most prominent in thinner patients.
Overzealous release of the pectoralis major muscle along the sternum runs the risks of symmastia and ridge like deformity up in the chest wall.
Submuscular dynamic laterization of the implant overtime is also a real issue that is not often listed as one of the potential draw backs of this pocket location. The contraction force of the muscle will push the implant laterally into the axilla. This is especially evident when a woman lays down and the implants will slide into the lateral chest wall.
If the pectoralis major muscle is inadequately release, accessory muscle slips over the sternum, the implants can sits far apart resulting suboptimal cleavage. Furthermore, the implants can sit very high up in the chest wall giving a unnatural high riding implant.

Main disadvantages of Dual Plane breast augmentation

Snoopy breast deformity or double bubble
Wide cleave due to the limit of the pectoralis major muscle
The technique is still prone to capsular contracture as illustrated in this patient

B. Subfascial Pocket Implant Technique

In this technique, the implant is placed below the fascia which is a layer covering the muscle. It requires meticulous dissection separating this fascial layer from the muscle. Which can be performed using a Bovie cautery in a bloodless meticulous fashion as illustrated in this picture.

Fascia layer above the pectoralis major muscle
Provides an additional layer to cover the implant
Protect direct contact between the implant and breast tissue therefore lower rates of capsular contracture
Improve cleavage in wide chest women because the location of the implant is not limited by the origin of the pectoralis muscle
Minimal rippling even in very thin and active patient
Most importantly No animation deformity

It is a less popular technique among plastic surgeons due to the fact that it is less frequently trained technique during residency (surgical training to become a board certified plastic surgeon). However, I personally in favor the subfascial plane over the dual plane technique for multitude of reasons

It places the implant in a very natural plane where the added volume should be centered under the breast tissue.
It allows the implant to expand both the breast tissue and skin in the most physiologic location where the volume should be added without the restriction of the pectoralis major muscle. This prevents any potential of double bubble or snoopy breast deformity
No manipulation of the pectoralis major muscle, a major muscle of the chest, means less immediate postoperative pain and also discomfort in the long terms for most woman. Furthermore, it does not have the dynamic deformity force caused by contraction of the muscle or lateralization of the implant in the long term.
Furthermore, without the limits of the muscle origin on the sternum keeping the implants apart, subfascial augmentation allows a surgeon to place the implant closer together creating a much more appealing cleavage in women with wide chest anatomy as illustrated in this patient.

5. The fascial layer provides an additional layer of coverage for the implant and prevents direct contact of between the implant and the breast parenchyma (unlike the subglandular pocket), and thus lowers the rate of capsular contracture. This has been reported in large series of subfascial breast augmentation reports in the literature. The reported rate of capsular contracture in subfascial plane is similar to that of dual plane technique.

6. For most active and athletic women, the subfascial plane allows the patient to continue with their favorite activities such as lifting weight, playing volleyball, tennis, and surfing without disrupting one of the most important chest muscles (pectoralis major muscle). These patients will not have animation deformity typical of dual plane technique.

C. Subglandular Implant Pocket Technique

In this technique, the implant is placed below the breast glandular tissue. This technique is seldomly used these days due to several factors:

It has an abrupt sharp transition from the chest wall to the implant and thus would be less natural in appearance.
It has potential rippling deformity due to lack of soft tissue coverage
It has a higher rate of capsular contracture compare to the dual plane or subfascial plane

However, there are advantages to this technique

It is less painful than submuscular or dual plane technique since there is no manipulation of the muscle
For a deflated breast – subglandular plane does allow for expansion of the skin envelope and potentially create a lifted illusion to the breast without performing a breast lift and additional scar

THE ADVANTAGES OF AWAKE PLASTIC SURGERY WITH LOCAL ANESTHESIA

Sun, 19 Nov 2023 11:32:29 GMT

Plastic surgery has come a long way in recent years, evolving from its traditional roots of general anesthesia procedures to a more patient-centric approach – awake plastic surgery with local anesthesia. This innovative technique offers numerous benefits for both patients and surgeons alike, revolutionizing the field and enhancing the overall surgical experience. Explore the advantages of wide awake procedures with local anesthesia and how it has transformed the landscape of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures.

Enhanced Safety Profile: One of the primary advantages of wide awake plastic surgery with local anesthesia is the significantly reduced risk associated with general anesthesia. General anesthesia carries inherent risks, especially for individuals with certain medical conditions. Awake surgery eliminates the need for the patient to be completely sedated, minimizing the potential for complications related to anesthesia, such as adverse reactions or respiratory issues.
Minimized Downtime: Patients who undergo awake plastic surgery often experience reduced downtime compared to those who opt for general anesthesia. Without the grogginess and lingering effects of sedation, individuals can typically return to their normal activities sooner, leading to a quicker recovery period.
Real-Time Patient Feedback: With patients awake and alert during the procedure, surgeons can benefit from real-time feedback. Patients can communicate their comfort levels, allowing the surgeon to make immediate adjustments if needed. This interactive approach enhances the precision and accuracy of the surgery, leading to more satisfactory outcomes.
Cost-Efficiency: Awake plastic surgery tends to be more cost-effective compared to procedures performed under general anesthesia. The absence of an anesthesiologist and the reduced need for specialized equipment contribute to lower overall costs, making these procedures more accessible to a wider range of patients.
Reduced Postoperative Nausea and Vomiting (PONV): Postoperative nausea and vomiting are common side effects associated with general anesthesia. Awake plastic surgery eliminates this concern, providing patients with a more comfortable and nausea-free recovery experience.
Minimal Time Commitment: Awake procedures often have a shorter duration compared to surgeries performed under general anesthesia. The elimination of induction and emergence times, as well as the streamlined preparation process, means that patients spend less time in the operating room.
Environmentally Friendly: The use of local anesthesia reduces the need for some of the environmentally harmful waste associated with general anesthesia procedures, contributing to a greener approach to plastic surgery.
Wide Range of Procedures: Awake plastic surgery is versatile and can be applied to a wide array of procedures, from minimally invasive treatments like lip fillers and Botox injections to more complex surgeries such as breast augmentations and liposuction.
This adaptability makes it a viable option for many patients seeking various cosmetic or reconstructive enhancements.

The advent of wide awake plastic surgery with local anesthesia has ushered in a new era of safety, efficiency, and patient-centered care in the field of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. By reducing risks, shortening recovery times, and enabling real-time communication between patients and surgeons, this technique offers a range of benefits that have transformed the way surgeries are performed. As the medical community continues to embrace innovative approaches, awake plastic surgery stands as a testament to the remarkable strides being made in enhancing patient outcomes and experiences.