Benefits of Facial Injections

The aging process has a way of sneaking up on you sooner or later. It will impact your skin with the appearance of wrinkles around the eyes and lips. Many people will get age spots and saggy skin too. There are a few techniques that can be done to turn back the clock without surgery. Today, you can soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles with non-surgical facial injections.

Many people are getting collagen facial injections as a filler to plump up the skin. You skin has three layers, the epidermis, dermis and subcutaneous tissue. The upper layer is the epidermis; it controls moisture from skin cells and tissue. The dermis contains blood vessels, nerves and hair follicles. This is the layer that is made of collagen protein. As you age this layer will weaken and lose its elasticity. Collagen injections will add moisture and flexibility back to the skin. The injections will kick start the production of natural collagen. Your skin will gain back its natural beauty with less sagging, fine lines and wrinkles. Collagen injections should only be done by a professional like a dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon. This type of facial injection will last for 3 to 6 months.

Do you have those creases in your forehead? Botox and Dysport facial injections will give you that temporary fix. It contains botulism which is a purified toxic bacterium. It is injected in tiny doses that will relax the facial muscles and fade crow's feet, frown lines and wrinkles. The Botox injections will take a few minutes and there is very minimal discomfort. Botox injections will take 3 to 7 days to reach its full effect. You will notice smooth skin in the treated area on the face. This treatment will last for 4 to 6 months.

There are cosmetic fillers that will diminish facial wrinkles and folds by filling up the tissue underneath the skin. The filler will be injected in the problem area on the face. It will reduce the appearance of wrinkles and creases. This procedure is done with hyaluronic acid, calcium hydroxyapatite, poly-L-lactic acid, polymethylmethacrylate beads and fat from your body. The cosmetic fillers will last for 9 months or longer.

If you are looking for a more permanent solution for wrinkles, then you should consider facial injections with fat cells from your body. The other alternative with permanent results is polymethylmethacrylate or PMMA. Polymethylmethacrylate-PMMA has been used to cement bones for joint replacement for years. It is now approved for facial cosmetic procedures.

The fillers are great for women with the sunken cheek look and need to plump up that area on the face. These injections are also used to rid the face of that tired look from dark eye circles. Some people have a hollow look around the eye socket. The fillers will plump up the eye area and add a more youthful look. You should set up a consultation with a cosmetic surgeon and see which facial injection is right for you. Most cosmetic surgeon have financing for many of their procedures.

Vaser Hi Def Liposculpture - Don't Put Your Head In The Sand - Get Educated!

If you are someone who has worked very hard to get in shape and have taken several diet measures to lose weight but yet still can't get rid of those fatty deposits, then you might want to consider cosmetic surgery. Among the known cosmetic options, vaser hi def liposculpture is one of the more popular among aesthetic devotees. With the available technologies nowadays, advancement in the liposculpture field has really developed!

Vaser hi def liposculpture is a clinical cosmetic procedure that uses 3rd generation ultra-sound technology to contour and gently sculpt body tissues by getting rid of excess fat deposits. This innovative procedure is done by first inspecting the area to be treated. It is followed by the creation of tiny incisions around the treatment area. The surgeon will then use ultrasonic energy waves to liquefy the fat and remove it afterward using a cannula. Once the unwanted fats are gone, the surgeon can start to manipulate the tissues and sculpt the area as well. This takes approximately six hours to perform and is done under general anesthesia. Significant results like tighter body appearance and less body fats can be seen immediately after the procedure. However, true muscle definition will be present a couple of weeks after the treatment. During this time the skin tissues settle down and will heal fully.

Compared to other known cosmetic procedures, this type of innovation has the significant ability to target desired pockets of fats, without damaging the surrounding blood vessels, connective tissues and nerves. This is also a quick and simple process of creating a sculpted and toned body without much downtime. However, these great results also have certain drawbacks. One of which is the potential development of noticeable scars at the incision site(s.) Numbness and pain are also expected from the area. Seroma and inflammation may also develop. Generally, other than the expected swelling and bruises, serious treatment complications are really rare. Yet, it is also important to be informed of those. Minimal chance of blood clot development and fluid or blood loss may happen. This sculpting measure is also typically more costly than others. It is roughly double the price of regular liposuction. Other than all these things, this procedure is typically safer than the traditional liposuction procedure.

Candidates for vaser hi def liposculpture include those who are frustrated with their exercise and diet regimens in achieving a toned body, and those who are relatively close to their desired body type before the procedure. It is also necessary that the person is physically fit and in good health condition. However, this procedure is not advised to those who have dysmorphic disorder, abdominal stretch marks and severe skin laxity. People who had severe weight loss are also discouraged to take this as an option.

If you are considering vaser hi def liposculpture to achieve the toned athletic body type you've been wanting, it is recommended to consult a specialist first. This is to help you address your concerns. Keep in mind that these cosmetic treatments are done to enhance one's appearance and self confidence as well.

Baby Boomers Seek Hold on Youth Through Cosmetic Surgery Procedures

Elkhart-IN --People in the 35-50 age group comprise the largest percentage (40 percent) of individuals who had cosmetic procedures last year, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). In all, more than 8.7 million procedures were performed on people who took action to proactively manage signs of aging or enhance their appearance.

"Society is certainly entranced with the idea of holding on to a youthful look as long as possible," said Dr. Ronald Downs, of The Centre, P.C in Indiana. " Many people say they feel better when they look better."
Liposuction was the most popular procedure in the 35-50 age group. Nose reshaping was the most popular among persons 19 to 34, who represent 26 percent of the 8.7 million, and eyelid surgery was number one among patients 51 to 64 (24 percent).

In all, cosmetic surgery procedures rose 32 percent from 2002 to 2003, according to the ASPS. The number of surgical procedures grew at 5 percent, while minimally invasive procedures jumped 41 percent.
"With the incredible influence the entertainment industry has on public opinion, TV shows such as Extreme Makeover are no doubt significant contributors to this rise in procedures," added Dr. Downs.

Botox® injections were the most common minimally invasive procedure, up 157 percent. "We believe that cosmetic injectables will continue to grow in popularity with the aging public," said Dr. Patrick Viscardi, The Centre, P.C., "especially since the FDA in late 2003 approved Restylane®, an injectable dermal filler made from non-animal, stabilized hyaluronic acid." Other injectables recently approved by the FDA include CosmoDerm® and CosmoPlast®, both of which, unlike Botox, do not require an allergy test ahead of time and, therefore, do not require a waiting period.

A concern by the ASPS is that with the increased popularity of injectables, people may turn to physicians who do not have the level of medical training needed to properly administer such treatments. Both Dr. Downs and Dr. Viscardi of Indiana are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, the only board recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties to certify a surgeon in plastic surgery of the face and all areas of the body.

Cosmetic Dentist - Latest Developments

When searching for a cosmetic dentist, it's important to find one that offers the services you need the most. The dentist you choose may specialize in techniques to repair decay in the teeth which are virtually painless; the perfect solution for the patient who has a fear of dentists. You may choose a practitioner whose specialty is celebrity patients, and completes makeovers for their patients. You may also need a dentist who does reconstructive work. No matter what type of treatment you need, make sure to find a dentist that has good recommendations, and gives each patient the same level of quality care.

Among the latest techniques that a cosmetic dentist can perform on their patients with very little or no pain involved, is an air abrasion treatment. The treatment is used on relatively small cavities on back teeth. The best thing about this treatment is that there isn't a need for drilling the teeth, and in many cases, for anesthesia, which prevents a lot of people from seeing a dentist when they need to. Air abrasion is a method which uses a stream of air which is very high powered, combined with a powdery substance which removes the decay from the teeth on the surface. The powder forms a bond on the teeth.

A technique which has been very successful on many patients of cosmetic dentists is dental implants. An implant is an alternative to dentures if you have lost one or more teeth. The implant is an artificial tooth that is affixed to the jaw. No bridgework is required for the implant to be successful. You should be in good health and not have any gum disease to be considered a good candidate for an implant. You may have one or two teeth replaced, or all of your teeth. Every patient's needs are different. You can schedule a consultation with a practitioner in your area to find out if you're a good candidate for implants.

A cosmetic dentist in the Chicago area has developed a unique concept. The dental practice is also a full-service salon. By making an appointment with this dental practice, you can also take advantage of their many salon services. Some dentists who practice cosmetic techniques claim to be a salon, but in reality, they aren't. When a patient makes an appointment, a complimentary spa treatment for 10 minutes is included. Lip hydration, treatments to rejuvenate the skin, massages, and facials are some of the services offered.

Non Melanomatous Skin Cancer in Ireland

Skin cancer can be divided into two main groups:

Malignant melanoma and
Non-melanoma skin cancer.

Malignant melanoma

Malignant melanoma is the rarest, but most serious form. It affects the pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) found in the skin and can appear as a new mole, or arise from an existing mole on the skin. Malignant melanoma has the potential to spread to other sites or organs within the body but is curable if treated early. Each year about 235 females and 150 males are diagnosed with malignant melanoma in Ireland.

Non-melanoma skin cancers (Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma)

Non-melanoma skin cancers are far more common but less dangerous than malignant melanoma and rarely fatal. Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma frequently appear on sun-exposed skin after many years of exposure. This exposure also causes premature ageing of the skin. Non-malignant skin cancers are easily treated by minor surgery. If left, non-melanoma skin cancers will grow and disfigure - therefore early treatment is recommended. Each year about 7,500 people are diagnosed with non-melanomatous skin cancers in Ireland with 3445 in females, 3889 in males.

Basal cell carcinomas

Squamous cell carcinomas

Solar keratoses (actinic)
Solar keratoses develop on skin which has been damaged by long term sun exposure. Usually many are present and can appear as hard, scaly lumps. Some become unsightly as they slowly grow larger. The skin underneath solar keratoses can vary in colour from a normal fleshy shade to pink or red. Sometimes these skin lesions can become itchy. Common sites are the face, backs of hands, forearms, ears, scalp and neck. Solar keratoses are not skin cancers. However, a very small percentage can develop into a skin cancer in later life. Some specialists regard solar keratoses as precursors to skin cancer, therefore it is important to seek medical advice on treatment.

- Solar keratoses appear as hard scaly lumps on the skin. They may crust but do not heal.
- Solar keratoses can be rough, scaly irregular patches which are easily felt but not clearly seen.
- Often they are not troublesome in anyway but do not heal.
- Some are very troublesome, if present on the lips or nose as they tend to bleed spontaneously.

Solar keratoses are most frequently treated by freezing using Liquid Nitrogen (Cryotherapy) or by applying a treatment cream. Some larger lesions may be removed by minor surgery under local anaesthesia. Treatment is usually carried out on an out-patient basis with the minimum disruption to your daily routine. All treatments aim to cure. The most appropriate treatment depends on the size, site and number of solar keratoses. Solar keratoses seldom recur following treatment but others may develop over the years.

Who is most at risk of developing skin cancer?.

People with very fair skin are most at risk of developing skin cancer. Those who cannot develop a tan are most at risk of malignant melanoma, but everyone is at risk of being sunburnt, especially indoor employees, children and babies. Malignant melanoma is more common in females. Non-melanoma skin cancers are most frequently seen in older age groups and outdoor workers who have a continuous all-year tan. The incidence of skin cancer is rapidly rising in the young adult population.

Are skin cancers treatable?

Both malignant melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers are curable if treated in the early stages. A minor surgical procedure is all that is usually required to remove cancers of the skin. Regular inspection of skin and moles at home helps in recognising any abnormal skin lesions or changing moles. Change in size, shape and colour of a mole are the early warning signs of malignant melanoma, the most dangerous form of these skin cancer, because it can quickly metastasise to other parts of the body. However, if is detected soon after if first develops, it is curable by simple surgical excision. In Ireland, over 375 cases of melanoma are reported each year and up to 60 Irish people will die of this disease.

The most common form of skin cancer in Ireland is basal cell carcinoma BCC, of which over 3,500 new cases are reported each year. These numbers are almost halfed between male and female and the incidence shows a small increase over the past six years. This cancer very rarely spreads to other organs but if left undetected, will continue to grow slowly, and may invade the underlying tissues. Again, this tumour is curable by surgery or radiotherapy. The third type of skin cancer is squamous cell carcinoma SCC, which often develops from a solar keratosis or sunspot. If it is not treated early, it may spread to other parts of the body, but is again curable before that occurs by either surgery or radiotherapy. About 600 females and 1,000 males develop squamous cell carcinoma in Ireland each year. The other cancers include those of baso-squamous (mixed) carcinomas and other morphologies.

Sunshine is the single most important causative factor for all skin cancers.

Ultra-violet rays contained in sunshine are known to be harmful and can cause skin cancers. The increase in skin cancers in Ireland has been linked with the desire to have a tan, with repeated sunburn, fair skin types and genetic factors, such as number of moles.

Malignant melanoma is associated with frequent high intensity sun exposure. Whereas non-melanoma skin cancers are caused by long-term exposure to low intensity sunshine. The amount of sun exposure during childhood and frequency of sunburn are now believed to increase the risk of developing skin cancers in adult life. It is therefore most important to protect all children from intense sunshine. Hats, T-shirts and sunscreens are recommended at home, at school and on holiday.

Providing protection against the sun

Sunscreens are vital whenever exposed to strong sunlight, at home as well as abroad. Always reapply sunscreens after water sports, games or exercise. Children play outdoors during the hottest part of the day whilst at school, therefore it is wise to apply an SPF 15+ to your children before they go to school. Emulsions such as Anthelios XL contain aluminium hydroxide and can be used with infants and with highly intolerant skin. ROC make a rnumber of products in the MINESOL(TM) range, including mineral sunblock cream SPF 40, which is recommended for babies in case of inevitable exposure. This particular 100% mineral screen cream has a pleasant and almost invisible texture. During sunny periods liberal sunscreen application should become a daily routine each morning before dressing or 15 minutes before going out in the sun. Heatwaves in Ireland are not uncommon, therefore sunscreens are useful in handbags and first-aid boxes. It is important to apply sunscreens as recommended by the manufacturer. Most sunscreens identify a sun protection factor (SPF) which can range from SPF - SPF60+. The SPF is calculated by each manufacturer for their own particular product so it is important to remember that SPF may differ between brands of sunscreen. All sun protection factors are based on how long it takes for unprotected skin to burn (average length of time = 10 minutes). For example, if you use SPF 15+ the protection offered would last approximately 2-3 hours i.e. (10 minutes X 15 =150 minutes). The SPF is a rough guide only, therefore care and attention should be given to skin type, the strength of the rays or sunshine, time of day, season and latitude from the equator. Many products including Antherpos or Uvistat Lip screen or MINESOL(TM) Sun stick SPF 20 offer lip protection especially in people who are prone to recurrent herpes labialitis.

Sunbeds and solariums

Ultraviolet radiation (UVA rays) emitted from sunbeds and solariums is now known to have harmful effects on skin. Suncreams and Lotions such as Uvistat contain chemical agents and titanium dioxide and are UVA protectants. Excessive use of sunbeds can cause rapid ageing of the skin, long term damage and increase the risk of skin cancer. There is no such thing as a safe tan. Many people today use sunbeds to develop or maintain a tan. Some people believe that a suntan from a sunbed is a safe tan. Skin specialists say a tan is a sign of skin damage and advise everyone to avoid the use of sunbeds and solariums. This is especially important for the very fair skinned and persons under the age of sixteen. Likewise, persons with skin cancer or those with a family history of skin cancer should never use sunbeds or solariums.

NMS cancer statistics for Ireland

* Average of 7334 new cases per year, 1994-96: 3445 in females, 3889 in males.

* Average of 40 deaths per year: 10 in females, 30 in males.

* Age-standardised incidence rates about 48% higher in males than females.

* By far the most common type of cancer in both females and males.

* Recorded incidence rates higher in Republic of Ireland (RoI) than in Northern Ireland (NI), by about 16% for females and 26% for males, but this possibly reflects differences in registration practice.

On average each year, 3445 new cases of malignant non-melanoma skin cancer (NMS) were registered in females, 3889 in males, in Ireland as a whole. NMS cases (primarily squamous cell and basal cell carcinomas) were by far the most common category of cancer in both females and males (29% of all malignant cancer cases).

European-age-standardised rates were significantly higher among males than females, by about 48%. On average, females were estimated to have a 1-in-12 chance of developing these cancers by age 74, males a 1-in-8 chance. Median age at diagnosis was 72 years for females and 70 years for males. In the period 1994-96 only 10 deaths among females and 30 deaths among males were attributed to non-melanoma skin cancer each year. This represents about 1 death for every 200 incident cases, reflecting the fact that these cancers are rarely fatal. Reported mortality rates (EASRs) were significantly higher in males than females, by about 370% (95% confidence limits 200-645%), but inaccurate certification of causes of death may possibly contribute. On average, females were estimated to have a 1-in-6600 chance, males a 1-in-1600 chance, of dying from these cancers by age 74.

Comparison of incidence rates within Ireland

Recorded incidence rates of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMS) were significantly higher in RoI than in NI for both males and females. However, these differences may possibly reflect, in part, higher case ascertainment (completeness of registration) in RoI than NI, as a result of a more targeted effort to collate all NMS cases in RoI. Involvement of other factors cannot be excluded however.

Skin Rejuvenation - The Complete Review

Skin Maintenance and Chemical Peels

Some of us are simply interested in a refreshed look. This can be easily achieved by daily use of sunscreens and topical retinoids at night (if tolerated). Occasionally, we need to promote turnover of skin cells by targeting the top layer of skin using the time-tested method of peeling. Gentle chemical peels made of glycolic acid or more potent TCA peels can improve appearance by removing some superficial skin to erase dullness. Another method of exfoliation, microdermabrasion uses ultra-fine aluminum oxide crystals to selectively remove dead layers of skin. This process simultaneously stimulates production of elastin and collagen to effectively promote development of a firmer, more youthful looking skin.

As we progress through life, we might want 'to turn back time' and look 10 years younger. Fortunately, treatment options for this dramatic rejuvenation are manifold and can be tailored to one's goals, age, lifestyle and even ability to tolerate downtime. A treatment plan may incorporate several different modalities: skin resurfacing techniques; laser removal of pigmented spots; laser skin tightening; strategic use of synthetic fillers, volumizers and Botox injections.

Skin Resurfacing for Dramatic Results

Skin resurfacing devices, like the paragon carbon dioxide (CO2) laser, effectively deliver dramatic results. They use controlled damage to trigger the skin's healing response, a process that eventually leads to skin remodeling and improvement in various signs of aging. Laser resurfacing offers a precise, effective and long-lasting approach to skin rejuvenation. Since this technique directs short and concentrated pulsating beams of light at irregular skin, laser skin resurfacing removes skin very precisely. Specially designed pulsed CO2 lasers can vaporize skin layer-by-layer while causing minimal damage to untargeted skin tissue. While fractional resurfacing with Fraxel uses a very narrow column of light to heat layers of the skin to stimulate collagen production, the cool light of erbium laser treatments facilitate removal of uneven pigmentation and superficial roughness from aging and sun-damaged skin. Plasma resurfacing is a relatively new technology that delivers plasma, a high energy ionized gas, through the epidermis into the deeper layers of the skin where collagen production is stimulated. Indeed, CO2 lasers, erbium lasers and plasma devices can deliver dramatic results in a fractional, ablative or non-ablative manner with downtime inversely correlated to the number of treatments needed.

Skin Tightening

Skin tightening will further enhance the effects of skin resurfacing and are built in with CO2 laser treatments. When length of healing is a concern, radiofrequency can be used to tighten the skin, albeit the results may not be as reliable or long lasting.

Skin Luminosity - Brown, Sun, and Age Spots Treatment

Luminosity of the skin has been shown to directly correlate with a youthful appearance. Most rejuvenation plans therefore incorporate removal of brown/age/sun spots. If downtime with CO2 or erbium laser resurfacing are unacceptable, treatments including a range of laser or non-laser intense pulsed light sources (IPL) may be chosen. Many skin problems of adulthood, such as fine lines, blotchiness, age spots (liver spots, dark spots), surface roughness, wrinkles, and dull, lifeless skin, can be attributed to sun exposure. The unique ability of specific lasers and IPL to specifically target pigment in the skin results in safe, effective and rapid treatment of unsightly skin lesions that have brown pigmentation.

 Wrinkle Treatment - Fillers - Botox , Restylane, Elevesse, Radiesse, and others

Stubborn wrinkles and fine lines often require more help than is available at the cosmetics counter. Modern technology has provided an array of fillers and volumizers that can be used over the entire face to strategically and effectively correct static lines and volume loss. In recent years, several new skin fillers have received approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating facial wrinkles and are safe and effective options for combating aging skin. Wrinkles are thought to result from the loss of three crucial skin components: collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid through external and internal ageing. Cosmetic injectables offer a variety of safe, non-invasive ways to subtly optimize one's appearance. Injection procedures with synthetic fillers have revolutionized aesthetic medicine and made cosmetic enhancements safe, easy and affordable. Of particular interest, the synthetic fillers (e.g. Restylane/Juvederm, Elevesse, Radiesse, Artefill and Sculptra) represent a new generation of alternatives to animal-based collagens. These newer products are more versatile in their weights and densities, biocompatible and longer lasting. Injectable fillers can be used to round out wrinkles, lines, and scars, or even to subtly give the face a more desirable shape.

In certain cases, treatment plans might also take advantage of removers of dynamic lines, like Botox, and fillers for volume restoration. Botox cosmetic acts as a safe, reliable medication, which blocks the actions of certain nerves. For wrinkles this means relaxing the muscles that crease the skin or pull the skin down.

Skin Rejuvenation - Summary

Clearly, skin rejuvenation can be effectively customized to individual treatment plans by combination of different modalities ranging from laser, light and other energy-based treatments to injectable fillers, volumizers, chemical peels and other non-ablative methods. The result is a smoother, clearer and healthier and more radiant skin.

A personalized treatment plan of pertinent modalities to skin rejuvenation is a veritable route to maintain youthful vitality throughout life.

Consider Getting Plastic Surgery If You Need a Change

Plastic surgery offers people the opportunity to change their life without having to start all over. Sometimes, in order to get a brand new perspective on life, it is necessary to change something that you don't like about your life. One thing that many people always tend to find flaws with is their appearance.

Since the cosmetic and plastic surgery industries get more advanced techniques each year, there is essentially no excuse for you to be unhappy with your appearance. You can have all of the money in the world, but if you aren't going to take action and do something about your appearance, then you are letting some valuable opportunities go to waste.

It may seem logical to invest in cosmetics that can provide you with a temporary solution when it comes to changing your appearance. But the thing about using chemicals on your body is that sometimes they have unwelcome side effects. They are also only a short-term solution. Unlike with cosmetics, the results you get with plastic surgery are much more permanent.

You have more options with plastic surgery. When you go and see a surgeon about how they can change your appearance, be very verbal about what you want done. Don't assume that you can just go into the consultation and give your surgeon a picture of what you are expecting and go. You need to give him or her time to assess your medical history and talk to you about your expectations. Depending on your situation and what you're trying to have done, you may need to have a follow up appointment before you can schedule an actual surgery date.

Keep in mind that making changes to your appearance requires more than having an operation. You may need to make some preparations so that you don't have any transitional problems later on. For instance, if you are getting liposuction, you will need smaller clothes to fit your new figure. If you are getting a breast enhancement, you will need to purchase some bras and blouses that fit your new figure.

Regardless of what kind of procedure you have, remember that once you get it done, you don't have to worry about whether or not you are going to get the figure you want. The more experienced your surgeon is, the better your operation will go. If you need some encouragement or proof of how much plastic surgery can change your life, go online and do a search for pictures of people and celebrities who have undergone the knife or laser. Read up on their experiences and their reasoning for why they chose to go forward with it, and why they don't have any regrets.

Plastic Surgery Advantages and Disadvantages

Many men and women consider getting plastic surgery due to many perceived imperfections or flaws in their body. On the other hand there are also some individuals who really need operations to improve and restore the function and form of their bodies. There are so many advantages and disadvantages under the different procedures that fall under it.

Advantages
The biggest merit that can be attributed to any cosmetic operation is the satisfaction and the joy that usually comes with a successful operation. Most patients who go under the knife come out from the recovery period satisfied and full of praise for their doctors. The improvement itself is another physical and mental advantage that gives the patient much confidence and eases her worries.

Plastic surgery also gives back, either fully or partially, the form and function that a damaged organ or part of the body may have had. Many deformed children and adults experience normalcy after reconstructive procedures that are aimed to help them.

Disadvantages
Despite the general optimism that patients usually have for their procedures, there are risks that accompany these. The risks and complications that can happen during and after the operation are some of the biggest disadvantages of plastic surgery. During surgery, the patient can bleed excessively or react adversely to the anesthetic used on her.

Cases like these can basically escalate to a dangerous situation that may turn out fatal or dangerous for the patient. Other disadvantages of the procedure are the dissatisfaction that comes when the patient has high expectations that are not met by the operation. This is where it is emphasized by the doctors that the patient should not have unrealistic expectations regarding the changes that the surgery can bring.

Some individuals expect their entire appearance to change into something that is supremely impossible with just one operation. The stigma of having had plastic surgery done on you has lessened over the years but there are still some who are conscious of this. Their sensitivity to this fact can actually make them more shy or secretive about the changes that they have gone through.

The overall advantages of any cosmetic procedure are greater than the disadvantages. This is probably because many of the disadvantages can be prevented avoided through modern medicine. Tests and screenings can also help to establish if the person is a viable candidate to undergo certain operations. Advancement in medicine and science has made so many procedures safe and reduced the risks of some.

The Downside to Cosmetics - Cosmetic Allergy

The American Academy of Dermatology has revealed that on the average, adult Americans use at least seven various cosmetics or cosmetic products daily.

The thing is that products like shampoos, colognes, deodorants, moisturizers and other cosmetics have become part of people's daily personal routines and they are considered necessities these days.

Cosmetics are primarily used to enhance beauty and some people have become so dependent on them that they become part of lifestyles.

Without any further explanation, it is apparent and very much understood that there are several specified ingredients in such cosmetics that function like antigens or trigger substances for allergic reactions, like fragrances and preservatives.

Cosmetic allergies are not so common. However, experts and studies found that on the average, about 10% of the country's population is expected to form or experience a form of cosmetic allergy within their lifetime.

But it would be logical to assert that women are more prone to experience cosmetics allergy than men.

Symptoms of cosmetic allergy

Basically, there are only two major skin reactions that will clearly indicate the onset of cosmetics allergy. These are allergic contact dermatitis and irritant contact dermatitis.

The most common manifestation of allergies from cosmetics is inflammation in the infected skin area. The affected spot would exhibit redness and swelling, and most of the time, those two symptoms are carried out with mild to severe itching.

Basic and primary symptoms for cosmetics dermatitis immediately show up or develop after the skin has taken contact with cosmetic products.

Symptoms for cosmetic allergy occurs when the skin breaks down after contact with identified harsh substances. Upon contact, those substances or allergens immediately and directly affect and injure the skin's outer layer, thus the onset of symptoms.

Like any other form of allergies, cosmetics allergy should not be considered a disease. Rather it is just a normal reaction as the body's protective immune system throws out or rejects foreign and harmful substances.

Treatment of cosmetics allergy

Creams and ointments specifically manufactured to treat cosmetics allergy are available without prescriptions through retailers and drug stores.

Most of these medications contain cortisone in the form of hydrocortisone acetate and hydrocortisone. Cortisones help curtail redness, swelling and itching during the onset of cosmetics allergy symptoms.

In severe cases, doctors prescribe extra-strong medications and ointments that can effectively and immediately relieve the allergy. Antibiotics are needed if blisters in the skin, which is caused by cosmetics allergy, cracks and becomes infected.

How to prevent cosmetics allergy

There are some recommended measures that can help you prevent contracting cosmetics allergy. Take note of the following ways.

- Before using any cosmetic products, read its labels. Look out for active ingredients that can obviously trigger an allergic reaction to your skin. Find products or alternatives that do not contain such ingredients.

- Perform mini-patch tests to determine if a new cosmetic product is too strong for your skin. It is done by rubbing your wrist with the products and observing for any redness or recatio within 24 hours.

- When buying cosmetics, pick up those that contain very simple cosmetic formulas.

- When wearing perfume, apply it on your clothes, not in your skin.

It would do you no harm if you take several precautions to avoid getting cosmetics allergy. Prevention is much better that treatments. Remember, cosmetic allergy, just like any other allergies, is only treatable, not curable.

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A Peep Into Hirsutism

Hair is one of the most beautiful gifts to mankind. It has been adored and admired by the people for long. Amidst the people looking for hair related cures like cure for hair loss, dandruff cure or baldness treatment, there are some who are worried because of excessive growth of hair at unwanted places. However, at times it grows at places where it is generally not found. Dermatology terms such outgrowth of hair as Hirsutism; meaning shaggy or hairy. Wikipedia defines it as, "excessive and increased hair growth in women in locations where the occurrence of terminal hair normally is minimal or absent". It refers to a male pattern of body hair (androgenic hair) and it is therefore primarily of cosmetic and psychological concern. Hirsutism is a symptom rather than a disease and may be a sign of a more serious medical indication, especially if it develops well after puberty.

Hirsutism is a common disorder affecting approximately 8 - 10 percent of women folk. It occurs as a result of conditions that are not hazardous or life-threatening, such as chronic anovulation. The disorder reflects a sign of androgen action on hair follicles in an increased manner; from increased circulating levels of androgens (endogenous or exogenous) or increased sensitivity of hair follicles to normal levels of circulating androgens.

As a result of hirsutism in women, terminal hair grows from androgen-sensitive pilosebaceous units. Though 60 to 80 percent of women with hirsutism have increased levels of circulating androgens, the correlation between hirsutism and androgen levels is not very concrete. The major source of increased levels of testosterone in women who have hirsutism is the ovary.

Use of exogenous pharmacologic agents, including danazol (Danocrine), anabolic steroids, and testosterone may also result in hirsutism. Oral contraceptives (OCs) frequently used by women contain levonorgestrel, norethindrone, and norgestrel. These chemical compounds have stronger androgenic effects leading to outgrowth of hair while those with ethynodiol diacetate, norgestimate, and desogestrel compounds are less androgenic.

A thorough history and physical examination is mandatory to evaluate women with hirsutism. Family history assumes a great importance in people suffering from hirsutism. 50 percent of women suffering from hirsutism have a positive family history of the disorder. Physical examination facilitates in distinguishing between normal amounts of hair growth and hirsutism.

Hirsutism treatment for patients can be done by various measures targeting local manifestations of hirsutism and pharmacologic therapy aimed at the underlying causes. For patients with mild hirsutism, temporary treatment in the form of shaving, bleaching, depilatories, and electrolysis may suffice. Electrolysis is one of the most effective and permanent methods of hair removal. However, electrolysis being costly and time consuming, has been supplanted by use of laser techniques for all types of unwanted hair removal.

The Pharmacologic treatment for underlying causes of hirsutism aim at blocking androgen action at hair follicles or suppression of androgen production. Response to pharmacologic agents is slow, occurring over many months and demands a patient approach.

Cure for hair loss, dandruff cure or baldness treatments are a common feature these days but treatment for hirsutism is still in its development stage. With the advent of numerous treatments and use of chemical compounds, this disorder can be eliminated permanently.

The author is an expert in natural hair and skin treatments. If you take good care of your hair, you may never need to visit a hair loss clinic. Hair loss treatment and dandruff treatment can be easily done at home. Problems like hirsutism need professional help.

Cosmetic Surgeon - Learn Why You Should Ask About Your Doctor's Education

Prior to hiring a cosmetic surgeon, you should find out a bit about the doctor's background. There are plenty of surgeons to choose from in every city, so it makes sense to never settle for less than a great one. Consider the main reasons to get to know the background of your doctor.

You first simply need to make sure your cosmetic surgeon knows what he or she is doing. Some doctors may seem great when you meet them, but it turns out that they are not really licensed or barely finished the necessary education to get into the medical field. The best doctors tend to go above and beyond in school. This means that they might graduate toward the top of their class, or even get additional schooling that is not required. You should find out which schools your doctor went to, and whether he or she graduated with a good GPA. In addition, find out if any special courses were taken, or if certifications that were not required were given.

You should never underestimate the power of peace of mind. Finding out that your cosmetic surgeon did particularly well in school can let you know that he or she tends to have impressive goals rather than just trying to do the minimum amount of work required. This attitude should carry over to the practice, meaning that doctors like this will not simply do the bare minimum. Instead, they will do everything they can to try to get patients the best results possible. Obviously, you want a cosmetic surgeon like this, as the knowledge of this will let you relax during surgery, knowing you are in good hands.

Once you are thoroughly impressed with the doctor's education, you should find out about the training of the rest of the staff. In many cases, staff members will prepare you for surgery or even perform some simple procedures on their own. While you do not need to know the education of the secretary, you should find out the background of any nurses or other employees with medical duties. Finding out these facts can help you relax during your appointment, no matter which staff member enters the room.

Most surgeons are happy to let you know their educational background, so you can just ask. In fact, you should feel comfortable enough with your cosmetic surgeon to ask about his or her qualifications. You can also usually find out this information on the office website, or even call and ask if you are still unclear on the facts. The staff should be willing to provide you with the answers you seek so you can be confident in the knowledge of the entire medical office.

Cosmetic Surgery Enhancement For Men

These days plastic surgery has become quite common for men; it's not limited to just women anymore. The options for male cosmetic surgery are not limited in any way whatsoever; whether you're looking for a face lift, lip reduction or even liposuction. Plastic surgery options are not just about being vain either, some address health problems that are specific to you.

Two of the most popular male plastic surgery procedures are breast reduction and rhinoplasty. The word rhinoplasty is medical jargon for nose job; the goal of a rhinoplasty is fixing structural problems to the nose or decreasing or increasing the size of the nose for aesthetic or medical purposes. Large breasts that have developed from a hormonal imbalance, gynaecomastia or obesity can be dealt with by means of a breast reduction surgery.

Cosmetic surgeries that are popular with men are:

Liposuction: more popular than ever with males; after the liposuction process you'll have stubborn fatty deposits removed that could not be removed by exercise and diet. Men tend to treat areas such as the abs, calves, arms, thighs and double chins.

Male tummy tuck (abdominoplasty): This is one-up from liposuction in that, along with the removal of excessive fat, is the removal of excessive skin, as well as the suturing of the abdominal muscles to make the whole abdominal area tighter. A less evasive procedure would be the mini abdominoplasty which is faster and easier than a full blown procedure.

Breast reduction: a common procedure with men who have lost considerable amounts of weight and are unable to firm up the chest area with exercise alone. The condition known as gynaecomastia is a hormonal imbalance that causes you to grow large breasts and by having a breast reduction performed you're able to remove glandular tissue and excessive fat.

Penis surgery: By having a male penis cosmetic surgery performed you're able to add width and length to your penis. The penis can typically be enlarged by an inch in length and about 30 percent circumference. Innovative and new operations can also allow the head of the penis to be enlarged also.

Reconstructive facial surgery

Facelift: A rather simple cosmetic surgery in which the excess skin is trimmed from your stretched out face. Wrinkles are removed with this process and it has the effect of taking several years off most people. To have even less scarring you can have a cosmetic surgery known as a mini facelift performed. To enhance a facelift even more people tend to have brow lifts, eyelid correction and eye bag removal procedures performed.

Laser surgery: Specially adapted lasers are used in laser surgery which allows wrinkled and rough skin to be smoothed out with a single pass. Treatment of blemishes, acne and age spots or even medical scarring is possible.

Rhinoplasty (nose jobs): This is one of the most popular trends in male plastic surgery as it can change the structure of your nose or increase or decrease its size. This procedure allows the width and length of either, or both, the nostril and bridge are.

Otoplasty (ear correction): The procedure that pins your ears back so you feel less self conscious, which is an ear correction procedure.

There are several other male plastic surgery procedures available, such as chin implants and cheek reduction, and they are also very effective. Treatment times for most procedures is usually around two hours, while recovery times for the typical facelift, nose job, or tummy tuck is usually a couple of months with patients being able to return to work before this time.

Cosmetic Chemistry - Start a High Profit Business Without a Science Degree

So, you want to be a cosmetics chemist? You want to join the cosmetic chemistry industry and formulate skincare, haircare, toiletries, body, bath and beauty products? But you think you need to go to university for three or four years and gain qualifications in cosmetic chemistry or chemical engineering -- right?

Not so.

Not if your main aim in wanting to be a cosmetic chemist is to start your own cosmetics business and join this multi-billion dollar industry.

The most common myth in the cosmetic chemistry industry is that you need an expensive university education to start a business in the field of cosmetics manufacture.

This is the advice offered on one cosmetic chemistry related website: "Get a science degree. Unless you have a relative who started the company, you will need a college degree in science since most cosmetic firms require it. Preferred ones include degrees in Chemistry or Chemical Engineering.

"Consider getting an advanced degree. True, a 4-year college degree is all you need, but you can improve your chances of breaking into cosmetics by getting an advanced degree."

In truth, you do not need a relative who started the company or an advanced degree to break into the cosmetic manufacturing industry.

It's true that if you want to make cosmetic formulations from scratch, without any previous experience making cosmetics or access to recipes and manufacturing procedures, and you want to work for a big international cosmetics company, you will need formal cosmetic chemistry qualifications.

But if your main aim is to start your own cosmetics business (and make much more money than any cosmetic manufacturing company will ever pay you), you don't need to step foot in any academic establishment, spend a minimum of three or four years studying, or spend tens of thousands of dollars in tuition fees.

Making cosmetics for retail sale is extremely lucrative. When you know the tricks of the trade and have access to the same formulations as the international manufacturers, most of the beauty products you can make will have profit margins of around 1000%. A $50 retail skincare product usually costs between 10 cents and $3 to make.

If you purchase professionally formulated recipes, and you can follow a basic cooking recipe, you can manufacture your own range of skincare, haircare, mineral makeup, etc. If you then decide you want to become more involved, once you've had a little practice and gain confidence you will easily be able to adapt these cosmetic chemistry formulations to create your own unique formulas - without the need for any degrees in cosmetic chemistry.

Cosmetic chemistry formulations include:

1. Shampoos and Conditioners for different hair types


2. Hairstyling Products -- gels, sprays


3. Makeup -- foundations, mineral formulas, lip colors, eyeliner, mascara, nail polish


4. Skincare -- cleansers, toners, moisturizers, acne preparations, anti-aging preparations


5. Sunscreens -- UV protection and self-tanning lotions


6. Baby Care Products -- shampoo, baby bath and lotion


7. Men's Products -- shaving foam, aftershave


8. Hand Care -- hand cleansers, hand scrub, moisturizing creams


9. Body and Bath Products -- body butters and creams, shower gel, bath bombs


10. Toiletries -- handwashes, deodorants

There are literally hundreds of different products that a cosmetic chemist can make. From this, hundreds more combinations can be made by the addition of a variety of essential oils and plant or fruit extracts.

If you love the beauty industry and have always dreamed of creating your own cosmetics company, don't delay -- it's fun, rewarding, prestigious and highly profitable.

Cosmetic Surgery Pros and Cons - Important Factors to Consider

Cosmetic surgery is a complicated procedure that can do wonders to your body. From facelifts, to tucks, breast augmentation and reduction-the wonders of surgery are indeed limitless. If you are considering the idea of going under the knife to alter or improve your facial features, it is important to reexamine your plan first. It can be costly and life-changing; hence, before giving your doctors the go signal, it is important you know the advantages and disadvantages of the cosmetic procedures.

The reason why cosmetic procedures have become such a hit among young adults and women is due to its several advantages. Cosmetic surgery is a procedure that aims to improve or develop your physical appearance. The most common valued customers of this treatment are celebrities and socialites or those who are often seen by the public.

Other people go under the knife to solve their health issues. If you are overweight, liposuction, a common surgery procedure, can help you lose unwanted fat the fast and easy way. There are certain procedures that are used as alternative treatment to various health problems such as diabetes and high blood pressure. There are also people who opt for plastic surgery to help them regain whatever physical feature they lost due to an accident or birth defect. People who might have had destroyed their nose's bone structure due to a riding or driving accident can have their noses altered or fixed through surgical procedures. A lot of athletes have used the wonders of cosmetic surgery to "fix" their facial appearance-Mickey Rourke, for example, is known for his former boxing career and his use of botox and plastic surgery.

Plastic surgery has its share of disadvantages too; the number one complaint about surgery is its cost. A single procedure can be very expensive and it gets more expensive if you choose certain complicated procedures. Another downside of cosmetic surgery is it isn't covered by most health insurance providers; this would mean that you need to shell out thousands of dollars if you want to go under the knife. Cosmetic surgery has its share of side effects also. For most procedures, the patient could feel a throbbing pain in the area operated on and other forms of discomfort.

Cosmetic surgery has its own pros and cons; but before you decide to continue with the treatment, you need to know what could happen to your health. Go through these pros and cons before finally deciding whether or not you should go for the surgery. If you still have questions, don't hesitate to ask your attending doctor.

Awful Plastic Surgery - How to Prevent It

You may have seen cases of awful plastic surgery. You may have seen heard about it on TV or newspaper, or seen the photos on the Internet. So you may be wondering how likely it is to have an awful cosmetic surgery, and how to avoid it.

The answers is, plastic surgery - just like any other surgery - has some dangers of its own. Anything may happen. Even by doing a search online, you can see many famous celebrities have had plastic surgery disasters as well.

But the good news is, there are some ways that you can minimize the risks and increase your chances of having a perfect, safe cosmetic surgery.

Dangers of Plastic Surgery - How Safe Is It?

When you talk to plastic surgeons, you will hear them trying to assure you there is zero risk and nothing awful can possibly happen. They will tell you with today's modern cosmetic surgery innovations, everything will go perfectly well.

On the other hand, when you do a simple search online for bad cosmetic surgery cases and disasters, you will find tons of photos showing many cases - even for celebrities - that the surgery went awful.

It is also a fact that there are actually law firms that specialize in bad cosmetic surgery. If some lawyers see this as a lucrative area to set their sights on, what does this tell you?

Even though in most cases cosmetic surgeries are safe, when you choose a reliable, experienced doctor, it is still wise to know of the possible effects and risks.

That's why it's important to find out the possible Dangers of Plastic Surgery to know what can go wrong in your surgery, and how to protect yourself.

What Can YOU Do to Avoid Awful Plastic Surgery?

The good news is, there is something you can do to guarantee that your case will be safe and bring the perfect results you are looking for.

One of the important solutions is to do enough research before you choose a plastic surgeon. Compare the before and after pictures of their previous patients.

If you can, get access to their patients and ask about their experience with this doctor.

This way you can easily find a reliable, skilled doctor with 100% success rate. So you can rest assured your plastic surgery will be perfect.

Injectable Fillers - The Downside

Restylane, Alloderm, collagen, fat, Sculptra... the choices in injectable facial fillers seem endless. What's more, new products become available all the time, each one promising to do more, last longer, and produce fewer side effects. And with average treatment costs in the several-hundred-dollar range, injectable fillers are increasingly popular with women from all walks of life, from soccer moms to fashion models. But, just how effective are fillers? Are the results worth it? And what potential problems do you need to watch out for?

Understanding the Beast

Fillers are substances injected under the skin to fill in lines, plump up skin, and remove wrinkles. Some fillers contain natural ingredients - including your own fat harvested from somewhere else on your body. Some fillers are made of synthetic ingredients. And others are a combination of natural substances derived from animals combined with synthetic ingredients.

Typically, fillers are injected in the doctor's office, as out-patient procedures that allow you to return to work and regular activities immediately after the appointment. The results are generally immediate, and the appointment usually takes less than an hour. There is often some slight discomfort or itching after the procedure, but that should clear up within a day or two. While some bruising may occur, side effects are rare and generally mild. So what's the catch?

Thanks Ma'am, We'll See You in Six Weeks

As with Botox (an injectable, but not a filler), one of the biggest downsides is that fillers are temporary. Sad to say, but the easier and safer the injectable, the more temporary it seems to be. You can even use your own fat as a filler, but the results will probably fade within weeks. There is no risk of allergic reaction with this procedure, because the filler is harvested from your own body, but chances are you'll be back at your doctor's in practically no time at all - although a small number of patients have reported terrific results that have lasted for up to a year.

Collagen is an older filler (which, for this hypochondriac, means that it may be "safer" and "better tested") that has a relatively short life span. In fact, some women arrange to have new injections every six weeks - and many report that it's their favorite. Restylane is perhaps the most popular filler around - and also reported to be the most painful.

Fillers containing hyaluronic acid usually last much longer; Juvederm is one such brand, and is touted to last up to one year, although there is talk that it doesn't live up to its claims. ArteFill is another "permanent" filler, while the makers of Radiesse and Sculptra claim semi-permanence. Of course, the longer-lasting the filler is, the more possibility there is for side effects or botched treatments that cannot be remedied. This may be an especially difficult problem in the case of Artefill, because it contains bovine collagen, an ingredient with a fairly high rate of allergic reactions.

Watch Out for This One!

Liquid silicone (Silikon 1000) has also been known to be used as an injectable filler despite the fact that it is not sold for this purpose. Because it is permanent, it has advantages. However, known complications with liquid silicone include migration and lumpiness that can develop years after treatment. There have even been reports of silicone finding its way into blood vessels and forming a clot! It's so risky, in fact, it's been likened to injecting a time bomb - or, the Russian roulette of cosmetic dermatology and plastic surgery.

So since Silikon 1000 is approved for use in one part of the body, certain loopholes in FDA regulations allow docs to use it off-label as an injectable filler. But because of the dangers associated with silicone injections into the face and lips, the FDA has banned doctors from advertising it. What's more, there have been so many lawsuits related to this use of silicone that many plastic surgery medical malpractice insurance contracts now carry a clause that prohibits doctors from using it and refuse liability coverage for complications resulting from silicone injections.

Risks Include...

One widely recognized problem is that the longer-lasting fillers can also cause lumps to form under your skin at the site of the injection. Sometimes the lumps are visible. And, even when they're not, they can be felt. Who wants to be kissed by lumpy lips? Artecol and Dermalive are two brand names that have been frequently associated with this problem. And yet, to be fair, it can happen with any of them.

The official statement from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons is that the risks involved include: allergies, infection, abscesses, open sores, skin peeling, scarring and lumpiness. They neglect to mention the horrible side effect mentioned by one medical study -- necrosis. That's dead tissue. Call me squeamish, but the thought of my lips turning into dead flesh is pretty scary. I realize that every medical procedure contains inherent risks. But I wonder: is the potential gain worth the risks that come along with injectable fillers?

Woman Overboard-Your Greatest Enemy May be You

Take it from a woman who over-plucked her eyebrows when she was fifteen-and they never grew back: making changes to your appearance can be intoxicating. I was so entranced by how large my eyes looked that I kept on going. The same thing can happen with facial fillers. Too much of a good thing is - too much. No one wants plastic fish lips - but it's easy to see how a little filler can turn into more next time, and then a longer-lasting one, and one more time, and suddenly you've gone too far.

One way to ease into the world of fillers is to ask your doctor to try a temporary injectable like collagen the first few times. This will give you an idea of what a longer-lasting product like Juvederm will do for you. And that way, you can live with a filler for awhile before you commit to the new look. This brings me to a final issue related to injectable fillers. Is it just me, or are we in the midst of a trend toward unnaturally shaped, very large lips? I've reviewed about six dozen plastic surgeons' before and after photos of "lip enhancements" on the Internet, and I have to say: at least half of them looked quite unnatural and unattractive to me. So bad, in fact, that the "before" photos often looked better.

What's up with this? I haven't notice plastic surgeons posting photos of nose jobs that look worse than what the patient had to begin with. Or breast implants gone wrong. Why all these oddly shaped lips and over-plumped creases? While the information highway appears to be in full bloom, the web, in many ways, has made it all the more difficult to find a qualified practitioner. My advice: stay away from strip malls and nail salons that offer injectable treatments, and read our Beginner's Guide to Choosing a Surgeon.

Striving for Perfection

Perfection is the name of the game in plastic surgery. Doctors are trying to provide us with the perfect facial fillers, and the rest of us are crossing our fingers and hoping for that perfect, smooth, wrinkle-free skin. It looks to me like these do not yet live up to the hype. But with new products coming out every day, the perfect filler might be just around the corner.

Reasons That People Have Cosmetic Surgery

When many people think about the likely candidates for cosmetic surgery they sometimes think of young glamour women trying to boost their careers or women who were once overweight and can't shift the last few folds of skin. These preconceptions may be apparent due to what is promoted by the media. The reality is that many different types of people are having surgery for many different reasons.

In this article I am going to explore some of the more and less visible reasons why individuals have cosmetic surgery.

We are always told what matters is not what's on the outside but on the inside. Then on the other hand we are told to make the most of what we have because first impressions count. Conflicting messages causes us to battle with our appearance and what is and what is not important. This can lead to us validating ourselves with what we look like on the outside. This brings me to my first reason that people have surgery, self esteem.

Having self esteem is to have pride and self respect. Another way to describe self esteem is to feel good about yourself. There are many ways to improve your self esteem whether it is learning more, a better career, spirituality or cosmetic surgery. Many men and women would claim to having some form of cosmetic surgery in order to improve their self esteem. A common saying is when you look good, you feel good. Looks are often intertwined with how we feel.

We are often judged on first appearance, if we feel we look good our confidence increases and our first judgement can also be improved. Self esteem is quite a key reason that both men and women have cosmetic procedures.

One of the most popular reasons for having cosmetic surgery is aiming to turn back the years. In magazines, on television adverts and radio we are constantly bombarded with messages about 'slowing down the signs of ageing', 'turning back the clock', 'renew', 'refresh' and words and sentences associated with returning to a more youthful appearance. This is the same reason that many people choose to have cosmetic procedures. In modern society there is a fear of ageing and the signs such as wrinkles, sagging skin and unfit bodies and we are told to hide these signs. Procedures such as Botox, breast uplifts, arm lifts, face lifts are all geared towards returning to our youthful bodies. In search of growing old gracefully many people choose to have cosmetic surgery.

Another reason that people choose to have cosmetic surgery is that they feel that they are not in proportion with their body. Some women for example feel like their breasts are not in proportion with their bodies either too small or too big. Some men and women feel that their nose is too big, ears stick out too much, lips are too small and the list goes on. Feeling that one or more parts of your body is not quite right can be very uncomfortable and this is why many people have cosmetic surgery in order to feel right within themselves.

The media is often blamed for encouraging individuals in to a thought process and forcing images on to them that are not realistic. There have been programmes and magazine articles that discuss how unreal the images that we see in front of us everyday actually are. However although we are told that these images are not real we are still influenced by what we see. Many men and women have an image of their ideal body based on the people they see such as models, actresses and celebrities. Many individuals bring pictures to cosmetic surgeons asking for 'Angelina Jolie's lips', 'Jennifer Lopez's bottom' or 'a chin like Brad Pitt'. These media ideals can shape how individuals look at themselves and influence their choice and reasoning behind having cosmetic surgery.
Quite a major reason for having cosmetic surgery is before and after changes in someone's life. There has always been the idea that women cut their hair after a break up as if making a new start and as an end to their previous life. This same reasoning is why many people choose to have cosmetic surgery. For many people after a divorce, when they have had a life threatening experience, getting or aiming for a new job and so on are reasons why they want to have cosmetic surgery. It can be seen as a sign of marking the occasion and declaring that there is going to be a change in their lives. Cosmetic surgery can be a way of showing change in individual's lives and having something to remember it by.

A reason that many people choose to have cosmetic surgery is that they want to make small and subtle changes to themselves. They don't want it to be too obvious that they have had surgery but they want to make minor enhancements so that they look a bit better, just to refresh themselves. The procedures that would typically suit this are non surgical procedures such as Botox, chemical peels, and microdermabrasion.

Overall there are many different reasons why someone might choose to have cosmetic surgery, whatever their reasoning cosmetic surgery has different meanings to different people. Some individuals may feel that the reasons behind having cosmetic surgery are solely aesthetic but this is not always the case, there are often deeper reasons that people choose to have cosmetic surgery and it has a different meaning for different individuals.

Cosmetic Dentistry - Alternative to Orthodontics

Orthodontics treatments such as braces are a common option for children and adolescents that need to have their teeth straightened or jaw realigned. In adults, braces are much less popular. Many adults do not want to have the noticeable appearance of braces covering their teeth, though they would still like to fix their smile and reposition teeth that are spaced out or crowded together. Fortunately, there are many types of cosmetic dentistry which can give the appearance of straightened teeth without the pain, difficulty and obvious appearance of braces. If you would like to improve your smile, you should explore the opportunities available to you through cosmetic dentistry.

Porcelain veneers are one of the best choices for improving your smile quickly and easily. Porcelain veneers are carefully shaped to fit your teeth and applied directly to the tooth with a bonding agent. Veneers can be used to mask crooked or poorly shaped teeth, small gaps or a poor bite. You can also use veneers for a whiter smile. Whether you're battling with grayish teeth or a yellowing grin, veneers can be made in many different shades to give you a whiter look that is still realistic. Veneers must be applied by a very skilled dentist. When done correctly, they will look natural and attractive and will not shift or fall out.

Dental bonding is another option that will mask the appearance of uneven, crooked and discolored teeth. In dental bonding, a composite resin is applied to the front of the teeth. This will be carefully shaped to fit over your existing teeth and give you the repaired appearance you desire. This is a bit of an art, so you should look for a dentist who has had a lot of success performing dental bonding and is very experienced with the procedure. Dental bonding is easier than having porcelain veneers and still provides a long-lasting solution. Some insurance carriers will even cover this procedure.

A snap on smile is probably the simplest solution for changing the appearance of your teeth. This is one solution that doesn't even require a serious commitment. Gaps and crooked teeth are easily concealed beneath the snap on device. Your snap on smile will be created specifically for you so that it fits neatly over your existing teeth. Snapping on the dental resin fixture is quick and easy. The best part is that you can still take it off whenever you like. If you decide that your small gap really just gave you character, it's always there to go back to when you snap the product off.

Keep in mind if none of these options appeal to you, that it is never too late for orthodontics. You can have braces at any age. If you're uncomfortable with their appearance, you still have options such as Invisalign or clear enamel braces. The most important thing is getting the smile you want. You should never be forced into a frown because you're hiding your teeth. There are so many possible choices, you can fix or conceal nearly any issue, from a crooked smile to a completely missing tooth. Talking to your dentist about the options available for your individual problem will be the first step toward getting a smile you're proud to share.

HairMax LaserComb Reviews

The HairMax LaserComb簧 was designed and developed in Australia and is manufactured in the USA under strict quality control standards. Lexington International, LLC, based in Boca Raton Florida, manufactures and distributes the HairMax LaserComb. To date the HairMax LaserComb has been shipped to over 150 countries worldwide. Lexington International, LLC is a leader in hair growth, hair care and hair science.

According to their company official website, the Hairmax Lasercomb is the only FDA cleared laser phototherapy device for home use; they are the only company that has invested in and performed clinical research to prove efficacy of the home use phototherapy device and to submit them to the FDA in a formal 510(k) filing*.

Since 2001, there have been 7 clinical studies conducted with 460 subjects on the HairMax LaserComb簧. In 2010, 2 of the studies were conducted on males and 2 were conducted in females.

These clinical results demonstrated that the Hair Max users would experience substantial decrease in hair fallout, faster hair growth; more manageability of hair and overall better quality and condition of hair. Moreover, no adverse side effects ever reported from treatment with the HairMax laser comb.

The HairMax Laser Comb is an easy to use and non-invasive home-use laser device; this medical device uses low level laser to stimulate the scalp and energizes hair follicles, help to maintain your existing hair and retard shedding.

How does HairMax laser comb work?

1. The HairMax laser comb has a patented hair parting teeth system to provide direct path for laser light to reach scalp effectively. The teeth of the HairMax part the hair to allow for precision delivery of laser light to all areas of the scalp and hair follicle without blocking by the hair.

2. The HairMax laser comb produces nine laser beams which generate coherent visible light in the red spectrum. This laser light in the red spectrum with proper power output is beneficial for cutaneous medicine.

3. As a result, the laser energy of the HairMax laser comb energizes weakened hair follicles to prevent further hair loss, and stimulates re-growth of hair.

4. Treatment with the HairMax laser comb can increases blood circulation and cellular metabolism in the scalp. The increase in blood flow brings the important nutrients into the hair follicle, and taking away harmful waste products such as DHT.

5. For optimal results, follow the recommended treatment schedule. Use the HairMax laser comb consistently 3 times a week (non-consecutive days - i.e. Mon., Wed., and Fri.) Each treatment approximately take 10-15 minutes, more frequent or longer usage will not increase faster results. Just like every day brushing and flossing to make your teeth healthy, ongoing HairMax laser comb treatment is needed to maintain healthy hair growth. Any benefits gained may gradually disappear if you stop using it.

6. The HairMax laser comb is a standalone hair loss treatment with no recurring costs and its precision lasers have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years.

The HairMax laser comb user reviews

1) Use the HairMax laser comb as directed, most users would experience a cessation of hair loss and have an average of 20% new hair growth. More than 90% of end users will notice positive benefits (Based on clinical studies and user reports).

2) During the early phases of laser comb hair loss treatment, some users will notice a slight increase in hair shedding; but it should not be a cause for alarm, because it is only temporary. Actually it is a good sign, indicates that the HairMax laser comb is working, hairs are being stimulated to fall out of the scalp only to be replaced by healthier, thicker hair, new hair is starting to grow now!

3) In general, most HairMax users experience full benefits of laser comb treatment within 20 weeks. These benefits including new hair growth, a cessation of hair loss and hair become more healthy, thicker and manageable.

4) As a matter of fact, not all the users would get the same results, some users only require as little as 12 weeks to experience the full benefits, but the others might take longer time. However, it should be noted that there are many variables that affect the result. You are suggested to continue using the HairMax laser comb on a regular basis, because many of users report that with continued use, they slowly start to notice thicker, denser hair and signs of new growth.

*Key clinical studies

*In 2002 Dr. Michael Markou published the clinical study 'International Journal of Cosmetic Surgery and Aesthetic Dermatology' in the peer reviewed medical journal.

In 2005 key clinical study has been conducted supporting 510(k) Submission* to the FDA and subsequently gets clearance to market in 2007.

The article entitled, HairMax LaserComb Phototherapy Device in the Treatment of Male Androgenetic Alopecia, is indexed as Clin Drug Invest 2009: 29 (5): 283-292 in most of the biomedical databases such as MEDLINE, EMBASE/Excerpta Medica, etc. was published in the May 2009 Issue of Clinical Drug Investigation.

*510(K) SUBMISSION

The 510(k) Submission is the primary mechanism by which medical devices are accepted to the market in the USA. The FDA requires data to back equivalence claims, descriptive data and performance data to support this type of submission.

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All About Cosmetic Dermatology

Cosmetic Dermatology is a field of medicine that deals with the skin abnormalities and diseases, its cure, prevention and medication. Dermatologist, as they were known, has extensive knowledge and training to provide best possible treatment for a specific skin condition.

Dermatologist can perform a variety of cosmetic works. Upon consultation and undergoing medication on their supervision, they can prescribe medication such as antibiotic in the form of capsule or ointment for skin problems and diseases. They are capable of performing simple and latest treatment such as skin peeling for acne prevention and the use of laser technology for wrinkle treatment, aging remedies and many other forms of treatments.

For those who are looking for a way to remove fat, a dermatologist is the person you are likely to seek help from. dermatologists have gone through variety of trainings to be able to provide for you the best possible treatment for your specific condition.

Dermatologists are available in their clinic and hospital for consultation on your cosmetic needs. They will talk to you about the causes and treatment needed for your skin problems. They will provide you explanation that they will perform and how the procedures will go. And while under medication. They will inform you of the progress of the treatment. Cooperation with the Dermatologist is important to make the cosmetic treatment successful.

Cosmetic Surgery: Friend Or Foe?

Medical procedures involving the skin are frowned upon by a large percentage of people. Most people believe that surgery should not be performed unless it is absolutely necessary and altering the way one's body was originally is not considered necessary. That is most definitely a good argument however there are plenty of justified reasons why plastic surgery is a good idea, any Cosmetic Surgeon Philadelphia would agree. Laser hair removal Philadelphia is one of those procedures that can be vindicated. Some critics may argue with that statement, but what real harm is there in getting one's hair surgically removed.

Why should someone have to deal with an everyday chore when in one step it can be eliminated? Permanent procedures can rid anyone of the annoying task of manually removing strands over and over again. Even though it may seem like a pointless procedure that is a waste of money, it is so much more than that for people who struggle with excess amounts of hair in places that are undesired. It should be an individual decision, some people may not agree with it but no one is forcing them to do it to their own body.

Cosmetic surgery is a personal choice. People are against it because they think people should be happy with the appearance they already have. Some people do not have the luxury of being happy with their appearance, so if there is a possibility to change it to be something they love why should they not consider it? There is a fine line of having too much surgery however. Too much plastic surgery makes a person look unrealistic and it is understandable why that is frowned upon. Plastic surgery is really only a good thing if someone is using it for a health reason, or if you are using it to look better for yourself, not to impress anyone else.

Surgery is not a subject matter that should be taken lightly. It is something that one must plan extremely carefully and it takes a lot of thought and potentially a lot of money. Critics opinions should not be what hold one back from doing what they desire. As long as one is reasonable and smart about the decisions they make in this area. Life is full of complicated and stressful decisions, but making one that will make your life less stressful and much better for you is definitely something to be considered.

Whether it is getting rid of unwanted hair or cosmetic surgery, one should do some research before considering any medical procedures before undergoing them. With cosmetic surgery there is a possibility of danger and regretting what you do to alter your body. Eliminating unwanted hair is not as serious as other cosmetic surgeries but it should also be looked into before going through with it. There is always something to be careful of when you are doing anything to alter your body. Some things may not be worth going through with, but some are.

Should I Use a Separate Dentist for Cosmetic Procedures?

A good dentist is something everyone needs in their lives - no matter how much care you might be taking of your teeth, some day you're going to need to fix a problem related to them, and then you'll really need to make sure you're working with a good dentist. Of course, with a job as popular as this one, the availability of dentists on the market is incredible, and it's subsequently really easy to find someone good and experienced who can really help you out.

And while your dentist might be the best in performing regular procedures, this doesn't guarantee anything about the quality of their cosmetic services. Good cosmetic dentists are usually entirely separate from good regular ones, so if you need cosmetic procedures done on your teeth, you'll often have to hire a separate dentist for that. Of course, there are some exceptions, and sometimes you may very well be able to get everything you need from your regular dentist - but as we said, those are exceptions and not the norm.

In short, yes, it's definitely worthwhile to take your time and look for a cosmetic dentist separately from your regular one. And it's best if you did this before you actually needed their services - so even if your teeth are fine now and you're not thinking about any cosmetic procedures, it's still a good idea to take the time and find a good cosmetic dentist in your area. That way, if you need their services in the future, you'll know exactly who to call, without having to start doing your research first thing.

Remember that there's a bit of an artistic side to the work of a cosmetic dentist. This makes it a bit more difficult to find the right person for the job, as you'll not only need to hire someone who's experienced and skilled enough, but you'll also want them to offer something that you personally enjoy. That's not such a major point when it comes to cosmetic dentists anyway, but it's still something worth noting about your search, and definitely not something you'll want to ignore.

And, just as you keep going for regular check-ups at your ordinary dentist (hopefully you do!), you should take the time to visit your cosmetic dentist every once in a while as well. Those visits don't need to be so frequent, and you shouldn't expect to see any direct results from them anyway - but if there's some problem coming up with your teeth's appearance, a good cosmetic dentist would be able to spot that early on, and stop it in its tracks.

You'll eventually really appreciate having a good cosmetic dentist to go to. It may take a while before you even need their services, but once you do, you'll realize that it was completely worth the time and effort you've spent to find them. And you never know when you might decide to get something more interesting done with your teeth, like perhaps put in a new set of veneers to make your smile really unforgettable!

Cosmetic Surgeon - A Few Questions to Ask Before Choosing One

1. Years ago a physician would become "board certified," for life. Because there is so much medical technology nowadays, it is imperative for a physician to have continuing education. It is now a requirement for a physician to re certify. That way, there is assurance that their knowledge is up-to-date.

2. Just so you know, being board certified is not a definite that you will have excellent results from your surgery procedure. But you can actually be sure that a board-certified plastic surgeon does have all the correct training as well as experience.

3. Understand the abbreviations after the doctor's name such as: MD, DO, FACS.

a. Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree:

-- Attended a four-year medical school

-- Learns allopathic or traditional medical practice

b. Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree:

-- Attended a four-year osteopathic school

-- Learns holistic medicine as well as traditional medicine

c. Fellows of the American College of Surgeons (FACS):

-- The doctor's training, education, competence, and conduct pass an intensive assessment

4. There are actually three primary boards. Each board is specifically related to plastic surgery:

a. The American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS):

-- Plastic Surgeon certification in the area of plastic surgery of the whole body which includes breast enhancement

-- Strictest surgical training

-- Highest certification there is for plastic surgery

b. The American Board of Facial Plastic / Reconstructive Surgery (ABFPRS):

-- Certification related to facial plastic and also reconstructive surgery

-- Requirements for certification are particularly related to surgery of the face, head, and neck, including face lift.

c. American Board of Otolaryngology (ABO):

-- Certification in otolaryngology and neck and head

Meaning and Techniques of Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry is a discipline of dentistry which improves the aesthetic aspect of a person's teeth by techniques such as changing the color of the teeth, teeth whitening, changing the shape of teeth, etc. It helps a person who has chipped teeth or misshaped teeth or deformed teeth or stained teeth and thus suffers from low confidence and self esteem. It enhances the aesthetic value of their smile by improving the appearance of their teeth.

Along with this,cosmetic dentistry also helps a person to have healthy and problem-free teeth.The techniques employed in this field of dentistry can be elaborated as follows:

1. Invisalign: In this technique,the patients teeth are fitted with invisible braces to improve the alignment of the teeth and thus make their smile better. This has an added advantage of the braces being invisible unlike the traditional braces which affects the smile of the patient negatively. This prevents the possibility of the braces looking unpleasant and ugly at times. Thus it takes both the factors into consideration such as the purpose of wearing the braces and its appearance. It serves the purpose of improving the alignment of the teeth without hampering one's looks.


2. Teeth whitening: Teeth whitening is another way to enhance one's smile and shielding the brunt of stained teeth. It is also helpful to the patients who have yellow teeth which makes them feel inferior and low. This is done by oxidizing the impurities that impart the teeth a ugly and stained colors. These impurities are trapped in the dentin layer of teeth. These impurities cannot be removed by brushing but only by oxidizing agents. This needs a special mention that oxidizing agents should not come in contact with gums because they are harmful for them and can affect their health in adverse manner. As this care can be taken by only careful and knowledgeable dentists it is advised that a patient should whiten his teeth only by qualified and adept dentists.


3. Veneers: Using Dental veneers another technique by one can conceal chipped or deformed teeth or even yellow teeth. In this method of cosmetic dentistry, a porcelain plate is adhered to the frontal portion of the teeth which imparts to the an attractive appearance. As mentioned before this is also effective in conniving ones chipped teeth. The porcelain plate is attached by first removing a thin layer of enamel of the teeth. After this is done, the porcelain plate is inserted carefully and with painstaking dexterity.


4. TMJ treatment: This is another one of the safe and reliable methods in cosmetic dentistry. It is useful to correct or improve the facial shape.

Cosmetic dentistry has been beneficial to people across the world and has lifted their quality of life. Many people who suffer in their social circle because of ugly set of teeth has taken up cosmetic dentistry treatments to elevate their self esteem and lead a normal life.

Cosmetic Surgery Ground Rule: The Equation of Beauty

Do you believe that everything in this world is run by numbers, from time, great structures and even beauty? Although many would say that beauty is in the eye of the beholder or that beauty is relative, many would also claim that beauty can be defined by a concise measurement.

Some may raise their eyebrows on the idea that beauty is defined by centimeters. It's not really the most flattering way to describe something to behold. But during the European renaissance period where art dominates the culture, numerical measurement helps artists map out a person's face to perfect their masterpieces. So you see facial proportion is what they consider to be real beauty.

I guess this is where cosmetic surgeries spring out. The desire to have a nose that forms perfectly in relation to the chin, a lip that pouts just right or cheeks that are plumped to the right proportion to the entire face is everybody's dream.

Dr. Kendra Schmid, who is an assistant professor in biostatics developed a way to determine the right facial measurement that would warrant as the perfect beauty. To determine the facial sex appeal in each person he used the golden rule and 29 other measurements. They say that this measurement particularly determines a gorgeous face from the average. And there is one word that best describes it, and that is symmetry.

Dr. Schmid says that the so-called golden ratio shows that the ratio of length to the width of the face is 1.6. This means that to be "beautiful" the face should be 1 翻 longer than its width. This makes for a good proportion that warrants a face to be symmetrical.

Another way to call the golden ratio is the divine proportion. In fact the great Leonardo da Vinci illustrated this in his Man in a circle masterpiece. You see, even science can attest that you our body naturally has symmetry. For instance the length of each finger bone is 1.618 of its preceding finger bone or the belly button to the bottom of the feet also measures 1.618, and so many others.

Another way that Dr. Schmid determines symmetry or beauty is by measuring three facial segments. The first is from the hairline at the forehead to the spot between the eyes, second is the area between the eyes to the bottom of the nose, and lastly from the bottom of the nose to the bottom of the chin. If all these three areas are equal, then that face can be considered beautiful. So in plastic surgery, if a surgeon is able to give that facial proportion by successfully shaping a nose or chiseling a chin then we can say that he is able to understand aesthetics pretty well.

Then lastly, in order to determine the right equation of beauty, the length of the ear should equal the length of the nose and the width of an eye should equal the distance between both eyes. When all these areas fall into the right proportion, is when a face can be considered perfect. So when a cosmetic surgeon lifts the face too much this can affect the total balance and attractiveness of the face.

So if you really want to enhance yourself with cosmetic surgery by improving and not by overdone procedures, make sure that you find the right and best cosmetic surgeon who can do it. Face and body symmetry makes a person more attractive to the opposite sex, and mind you, this is true across cultures. So be very careful in choosing your surgeon if you want to attain, regain or maintain that symmetry and beauty.

Plastic Surgery in Your 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s and Beyond

If it's good enough for Joan Rivers, it's good enough for you. In her latest book, Men Are Stupid...And They Like Big Boobs: A Woman's Guide to Beauty Through Plastic Surgery, the mega-star has admitted the she has had loads of operations, on her eyes, arms, lips, breasts, tummy and nose. Plus, she regularly gets Botox injections as well as a host of other anti-aging treatments to keep the Grim Reaper at bay - or at least allowing him to see her looking damn good before she passes on.

As Rivers - who's amazingly now 75 years old - knows, the more we age, the more we tend to droop and sag. It's sad fact of life, as the effects of gravity begin to take their toll on those with even the most elastic of skin. Clever plastic surgeons, however, have ways to revere the effects of aging, and make us look younger than we really are. But which procedures are really right for us?

While every individual is different, most of us follow a similar pattern when it comes to aging - and most of us can benefit from procedures designed for people at a certain age in their lives. Here are the most commonly performed operations for people in a specific age group. Read about them and see if they appeal to you - or if they make you want to run the other way!

The 20s

Most of us still look youthful at this age, and aging doesn't play an enormous role when it comes to the type of cosmetic procedures offered to people in this age group. Skin care treatments are usually popular, both to get rid of leftover acne and/or scars, and to ward off wrinkles in future. Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!

THE PROBLEM: Specific problems that plague an individual, regardless of age. While most people in this age group respond well to exercise, genetic problems might still remain, such as a saggy butt, flat cheeks (on the face, that is), flat chest or skinny legs.

THE RECOMMENDATION: The most common procedures performed in the US among people in their 20s were liposuction, boob jobs and rhinoplasty ops (that's a nose job, dummy). Less invasive procedures such as Botox (yes, even in your 20s!) and dermal fillers to augment the lips are also popular among the twenty-something set. A butt, cheek of calf implant may be desired as well, for those who are active at the gym but still can't achieve the perfect body - or face - they so desire.

The 30s

Youth is beginning to wane, and wrinkles are accumulating on the face, as well as fat deposits collecting in the chin and other areas. The body is also showing signs of wear and tear, and doing it on your own just doesn't cut it.

THE PROBLEM: Good skin elasticity means a variety of facial treatments are available that can work to good effect. However, diet and exercise don't have quite the same effect they did in the past - plus the result of pregnancy may have taken a toll - so body contouring treatments might be warranted. Your metabolism has slowed down, and everything is harder work. Surgery can help.

THE RECOMMENDATION: Loads of skin care treatments can turn back the clock, such as microdermabrasion, Thermage and laser skin tightening. To make it look like you've never had a baby - and certainly never breastfed one - why not try a breast uplift and augmentation, as well as a tummy tuck, stretch mark removal surgery and a course of lipo?

The 40s

Things are starting to slide south faster and faster, the skin is losing its elasticity and it takes about five hours to work off one Krispy Kreme donut. Why? Welcome to the 40s!

THE PROBLEM: Loose skin makes the face - and other areas of the body - look saggy and droopy. Excess fat is accumulating faster than you can say "Malibu Beach Diet", and for those who postponed having kids until now, the post-baby jelly belly is here to stay. Nobody wants to watch every mouthful they eat, so there has to be another way...

THE RECOMMENDATION: Get rid of fine lines and wrinkles, or at least the appearance of them, with non-invasive treatments such as Botox and Thermage. More invasive measures would include a brow lift and eyelid surgery. Some people even have complete face lifts at this age, or at least a thread or mini lift (studies have shown that people in their late 40s who get face lifts are the most happy with the results). Old faves include tummy tucks, boob jobs and lipo, and if your neck is showing signs of looking like a turkey, you might want to have a neck lift - or at least some lipo - in the neck area before it gets a lot worse.

The 50s

Facial surgery is a big thing for women and men of this age, as the first real signs of aging appear on the face. Lack of volume in the face plus gravity can make you droop and look haggard and/or constantly tired. Perk yourself up with a spot o' surgery!

THE PROBLEM: Saggy face and neck, hollow cheeks, lack of vitality in the face, a youthful visage that has disappeared with age. Even if you splashed out $3,500 on a fab designer outfit, spend a grand on a haircut and eat nothing but lettuce leaves for a month, your face will still give you away.

THE RECOMMENDATION: Anything that can plump up the face and make it look younger is popular among people this age. This can include obvious techniques such as a face lift and fillers, but also can include the less obvious: cheek implants, neck lift, browlift. Non-invasive treatments to look better are also popular, such as laser and pulsed-light therapy. Women who have had surgery for breast cancer etc might also be investigating reconstructive surgery at this age. Saying that, most people who want boob jobs etc will have already had one - or two, or three - by the time they hit the big 5-0.

Beyond...

As Joan Rivers has proven, anyone can look younger - or drastically altered, as if they'd had a myriad number of procedures performed on their body and face - through plastic surgery. Whether you're 21, 51 or 81, there is a surgery out there to suit you - and a surgeon willing to do it.

If you are considering surgery, however, do your homework first and think long and hard about whether the outcome is really what you want. If you don't have realistic expectations of what surgery can do for you - give you better breasts, for example, not give you a better life - then the whole plan could hideously backfire.

"I believe in plastic surgery," Rivers said in an interview not long ago. "Eventually, you will look in the mirror and you will know. You will hit 40 and say, 'that isn't quite right'. Anyone out there who thinks they don't like their nose? Do something about it! You go through life once. Fix your teeth.

"My motto is, 'Better a new face coming out of an old car than an old face coming out of a new car'. Spend your money on you."

The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care an appropriate health care provider.