Endoscopic Cosmetic Procedures Offer Low Risk and Quick Recovery

Although endoscopic procedures have been around for quite some time, only recently have plastic surgeons begun to capitalize on this useful tool and use it to its full advantage. Endoscopic procedures allow the plastic surgeon a better line of vision and more control of the area being worked on. It also can help minimize incisions as well as recovery after surgery.

Endoscopy involves creating small, one inch incisions in the targeted area. A small camera and light is attached at the end of a long tube which is inserted into the body. The camera takes video of the inside of the body that is viewed at a magnified size on a television screen by the surgeon.

Endoscopic procedures such as brow lifts and breast augmentation not only minimize scars and recovery time, but they can also minimize risks and complications. Not all cosmetic procedures can be performed using endoscopy techniques, but here are a few of the available surgeries.

Breast Augmentation

Most women have reservations about the subsequent scarring from breast augmentation procedures. Endoscopic breast augmentation uses smaller scars and can be helpful for those seeking revisions. Incisions are usually created underneath the arms or at the rim of the navel. This allows the surgeon to properly fit the implant with ease and no guess work. It is also useful in examining any abnormalities such as capsular contracture that may occur after a primary breast augmentation.

Brow Lift

Brow lifts focus on rejuvenating and refreshing the face from the upper eyelids up to the forehead. For this procedure, the endoscope is placed in tiny incisions created at the hairline to provide the best possible scar camouflage.

The endoscope guides the plastic surgeon as he repositions the tissue and muscles, trimming away excess when necessary, to create a smoother, more rested appearance. The eyebrows and upper eyelids are pulled up tighter and the forehead lines become relaxed, eliminating a pinched or worried look.

Facelift

For patients who want more intensive facial rejuvenation, a facelift can take up to ten years off of your appearance. The incisions created for this endoscopic procedure are similar to those in the brow lift except a few will be made near the ears as well. Since the endoscope allows for greater precision and control, the surgeon can concentrate on specific problem areas. The underlying muscle will be tightened to relieve fine lines and lax tissue and skin.

When necessary, any facial features will be repositioned into a more desirable place. This facelift method is not recommended for patients with excess loose skin as the endoscope limits how much can be tightened.

Endoscopic procedures are often safer, reducing the risk of bleeding, swelling, and bruising, which means recovery times are generally faster. You'll also save money on a hospital stay as most patients can be sent home after the surgery, and you'll be able to return to work sooner. And because scarring is minimal, no one will be able to detect that you have recently undergone a cosmetic procedure. Even patients with thinning hair have been able to successfully blend in endoscopic scars without detection.