The Cons of Cosmetic Procedures

As you know, cosmetic procedures are gaining popularity given the number of television shows and celebrities flaunting enhancements. Cosmetic procedures, however, are not for everyone.

The Cons of Cosmetic Procedures

Many people decide to undergo a cosmetic procedure after they've seen the results on someone else. Television shows like Dr. 90210 and Extreme Makeover have lead to a rise in the number of people seeking enhancements, but these shows do not make it clear that surgery is not for everyone. While enhancements may seem quick and easy, there are factors that should be considered before even contacting a surgeon to arrange a surgery consultation.

The cons are not as great as they once were. In fact, most people come through their procedures without any ill effects. However, there are certain things you should know about that can happen when having any surgery. If you are under the age of 18, a cosmetic procedure may not be a good idea. Your body has not yet matured, so if you're thinking about rhinoplasty or breast augmentation because you're dissatisfied with the way you look now - wait. As you age, your body should change naturally. If this doesn't resolve in natural improvements, you can always revisit the issue at a later time.

For everyone, there are a few common dangers of cosmetic procedures that your surgeon should tell you about. Every time you have surgery, there is a chance that you could have a reaction to the anesthesia used to put you to sleep for the procedure. While this is relatively rare, it can be life-threatening and even deadly. You could also have other complications with reactions to drugs you are given such as pain relievers and antibiotics.

Another con to consider is scarring. While doctors try to do their best to minimize any scars that may arise, there is no foolproof way to make your body heal correctly. Some people will get scars, and even keloids (overgrowth of tissue in the incision area), and there may be no way to correct it. You may also get blood clots in your surgery area. These can cause problems which can be minor such as blemishes and bruising. In rare cases, they can cause significant health problems.

The point of this article is not to scare you away from considering enhancements. Instead, it is simply to emphasize that cosmetic procedures are medical procedures and should be treated as such.

Plastic Surgery For Necessity As Well

Plastic surgery isn't just an exercise in personal aesthetic enhancement; it can often mean the difference between preserving your body and enduring a distressing loss. There are times when the area of medical expertise that was developed in order to help improve the form and function of the human body actually does just that. These doctors can be sought in order to repair skin, bone, nerves, and tissue throughout the body for a variety of purposes. A baby may need emergency surgery on his or her tiny parts in order to prevent further dysfunction. Their skills can be required to assist when a child is born with fused legs, or for an older child with a congenital ear deformity, which results in a partial or completely missing earlobe.

Surgeons' skills can also be used to assist a man or woman who may need skin grafts after a fire-related injury. As long as the skin can be salvaged, the surgeon will do what he or she can. Sometimes, however, usable skin must be sought from elsewhere on the patient's body or from a donor. This process helps to preserve the tissue that was once beneath the skin that is now exposed due to the damage caused by the blaze. There are also incidents where bone grafts are needed to help repair severely damaged jaw injuries, wrist injuries, as well as severe hand and feet bone injuries.

There are surgeries that involve even the veins and similar structures to which cosmetic surgeons contribute. The need for this type of work can occur after a variety of cutting wounds have damaged not only the patient's tissue, but also the blood-carrying structures surrounding and running through it. Plastic surgery is designed to help with just those types of tasks. These highly skilled surgeons are trained to enact physical improvements upon even the smallest of body parts. These procedures can revitalize the often elusive form and function of these physical areas, especially following a devastating injury.

Plastic surgery doesn't just preserve one's youth on the outside; it helps to maintain or improve quality of life for many patients in hospitals each day. Whether the plastic surgeon is asked to step in during initial emergency surgery or for a later scheduled operation for corrective surgery, it is important to view an injury from the perspective of both the function and aesthetics of the body. The patient will appreciate the newfound mobility and enhanced internal processes but will never forget how their physical image was preserved.

Is Plastic Surgery Ever Okay for Children?

There are some people who are totally against the idea of plastic surgery for kids. In their eyes, this procedure is only suitable for adults. Then, there are those who don't think these types of procedures are necessary for anyone, let alone children. They believe that people should just be happy, content and satisfied with the way they look. Little do they know, there are times when it can be quite helpful for a child to go through this type of treatment. Just think of a child who becomes involved in a bad car accident that causes their face to become disfigured.

Suddenly having to deal with a disfigured or badly scarred face would be difficult for just about any child to handle. Not only would they have to deal with the physical change, they would also have to deal with the traumatizing memories of their accident. Children, by nature, are not as secure and mentally stable as the average adult. Therefore, having to deal with these types of situations could prove almost too much to bear, for some. So, in cases like these, plastic surgery is vital.

One of the main reasons plastic surgery is so beneficial in cases such as these is, because of the stares and remarks some children may get from their peers. It has been proven time and time again that children can be extremely cruel to one another. That's because some of them have not yet learned the importance of respecting and protecting other people's feelings. Therefore, they say whatever comes to mind. Having to deal with being teased and bullied by other children, because of a facial deformity can be disheartening.

Enduring this type of verbal abuse could cause them to have extremely low self-esteem. Some may not see this is a big deal, because in their minds every child deals with low self-esteem at some point. This may be true. However, in this instance, the case would be much more extreme and poignant. This is especially true, because this particular child wouldn't be used to dealing with this level of teasing. That's because they didn't have the same facial issues before.

So, contrary to what some people may believe, plastic surgery can actually benefit children, especially those who are faced with unexpected facial deformities. Without this type of procedure, many kids would be left to deal with the harsh reality of their deformity, without any hope of change or improvement. The good news is this doesn't have to be the case.

The Perfect Peel

The cosmetic benefits of skin exfoliation or removing the outer layers of the skin have been known since ancient times. Babylonians used pumice stones to exfoliate the skin. Egyptians discovered that simply bathing in sour milk which is now known to contain lactic acid could make their skin softer and smoother. 

The outer portion of the skin or epidermis is composed of multiple layers of cells. Over time, these cells are shed naturally. 

As we age, the process of exfoliation slows down.  This leads to a dull, coarse and sallow complexion with excess and irregular pigmentation. Spider veins and wrinkles form and the skin becomes lax. The ultraviolet rays of the sun accelerate these changes. 

The good news is that these changes are limited to the outer layer of skin. Therefore, they can be treated by a variety of methods that exfoliate or resurface the damaged portion of the skin. Newly healed skin replaces the damaged skin without the unwanted imperfections and restores a more healthy and youthful glow.  These methods include chemical exfoliants and peels, mechanical devices such as microdermabrasion and thermal energy delivered through laser and other light sources. 

Epidermal cells are held together by both microscopic fibers and a substance like glue that surrounds each cell.  Microdermabrasion physically breaks apart the filaments connecting the cells of the epidermis.  A vacuum device and hand piece allow micro crystals of aluminum and magnesium to pass over the skin.  The hand piece then vacuums off the dead skin and crystal particles.  This procedure exfoliates the most superficial layer of the epidermis.  Microdermabrasion is a progressive skin treatment and usually requires a number of sessions.   

Chemical peels act to dissolve the glue which holds cells together and therefore penetrate deeper into the skin.  The more common peels include the alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) such as glycolic and lactic acid, salicylic acid and trichloroacetic acid.  The ultimate depth of a peel is influenced by a number of factors - the use of a pre-peel preparation, the amount of chemical applied and the length of time the chemical is allowed to stay on the skin.  Also, variation in skin thickness between individuals can affect the outcome of the peel. 

Chemical peels are generally divided into superficial, typically performed by an aesthetician, and medium and deep peels, performed in a medical setting.  Medium and deep peels can lead to side effects such as infection and areas of irregular pigmentation.  Deep peels can also lead to a permanent lightening of skin tone. The treated skin will often freckle instead of tan with sun exposure.  Medium and deep peels are not appropriate for people with darker skin tones due to the risk of increased pigmentation that can occur following the procedure.  

Both microdermabrasion and chemical peels can work well but neither provide a thorough exfoliation when used alone. One of the most exciting innovations since 1994 is the use of lasers to exfoliate or resurface the skin. The carbon dioxide (CO2) laser was the first laser that made it possible to safely peel away the top layer of the skin by a process known as vaporization. The CO2 laser is generally used for those with severe photodamage characterized by deep wrinkles and premalignant skin lesions. Because it penetrates into the deeper layer of the skin, there is a potential for side effects. These include persistent redness, increased pigmentation of the treated area, prolonged healing times and infection.

A more recent innovation, the Erbium laser, provides a more superficial peel than the CO2 laser because it does not penetrate the entire upper layer of the skin.  Therefore, it leads to fewer side effects, a shorter recovery time and therefore a product preferred by both patients and physicians.  Because there is less thermal injury to the skin, the risk of pigment changes is reduced making it a safe alternative in patients with darker skin types.  It is quite effective for individuals with mild to moderate degrees of photodamage, i.e., coarse skin, spider vessels, fine wrinkles and laxity. 

The MicroLaserPeel is an Erbium laser that precisely peels the outermost layers of the skin.  The epidermis has an average thickness on the face of about 110 microns. The MicroLaserPeel can remove up to 80 microns of the skin in one session.   Peels up to 30 microns can be performed under topical anesthesia.

Healing generally takes three to five days.  Symptoms following the procedure resemble those of a sun burn which are treated with analgesics and topical agents.  Many patients chose a series of 20 to 30 micron peels to avoid the prolonged recovery time of deeper peels. Typically the procedure is repeated 2-4 times at 8-10 week intervals.

The MicroLaserPeel is one of the most predictable and effective procedures available for facial rejuvenation and therefore is THE PERFECT PEEL.

Dr. Christine Helinski of Brilliant Aesthetics MedSpa specializes in cosmetic procedures, including MicroLaserPeels in Maryland [http://brilliantmedspa.com/Microlaserpeel/micro-laser-peels-maryland.aspx]. 

7 Key Questions to Ask When Choosing Your Cosmetic Clinic

If you're thinking of having cosmetic treatment you need to find a clinic/practitioner you can trust. You want your treatment done in a sensitive way to make sure you keep a natural look, and you want it done safely and with the best products.

Sadly we all see examples of poor treatment either in magazines or on television, and walking down the local high street as well. But remember that most of your friends who are having treatment probably just look great, and no-one knows they have had any treatment.

In good hands treatments like Botox or dermal fillers can be very effective and safe, but all medical procedures involve possible risks of side-effects or complications, so you are better finding the best trained and most experienced practitioner.

How can you best decide which of these people you can trust with something as precious as your face?

I suggest you should be as questioning when it comes to choosing your clinic as you would when making any important decision. It makes sense to be cautious.

The following advice is based on my experience over the past 9 years running my own cosmetic clinic and meeting people who have had a bad experience elsewhere.

RULE NUMBER 1:

Assess Your Practitioner Before They Assess You!

Just as you wouldn't buy the first house you see, you shouldn't assume that the first person you see about your appearance is going to suit you best either.

You need to find out what you can about their background and skill, and decide how comfortable you feel with their advice and the way they talk to you.

So, here are my top suggestions:

1. "What Is Your Background/Qualification?"

In the UK you may find the answer ranges from a plastic surgeon, doctor, nurse, dentist, physiotherapist, pharmacist, beautician or none of the above. (Anywhere else in Europe and the USA no-one except medically qualified doctors can administer injectable cosmetic treatments.)

Which of these would you feel will have knowledge of dermatology and diagnosis of related medical conditions, anatomy, and the knowledge and experience needed to help should any problems arise after treatment?

Don't be afraid to ask questions - I am very surprised how few people ask searching questions about me and my practice. No practitioner should be surprised to be asked these things and shouldn't be offended - in fact the more offended or uncomfortable they are the more likely they're not as qualified as you'd like!

2. "How Long Have You Been Doing These Treatments And What Specialist Training Do You Have?"

Good question and of some help, but remember that just because someone has been offering treatments for a long time is no guarantee that they're good! As a trainer of practitioners from relative beginner to more experienced I've seen a very wide range of skills, even when they've been offering treatment for a long time.

Good training is essential, but do they have evidence that they have been assessed after they've had training? Remember that simply attending a training session is no guarantee that they are good.

3. "Are You A Member Of A Recognised Professional Body?"

In the UK this might include General Medical Council (GMC), British College of Aesthetic Medicine (BCAM), British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS), General Dental Council (GDC) or Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).

You can always check with the relevant governing body if you are unsure of someone's qualifications.

4. "How Many Treatments Have You Carried Out And What Complications Have There Been?"

For this one, you just have to see how the question is answered as they could say what they like, but it still gives you a guide. No-one with experience will say that there has never been a complication, and shouldn't be ashamed of saying so, as these are a medical fact of life. If someone insists that they never see any problems then you might question them further. If they can quote their own rate of complications then you should be impressed - this means that they monitor their treatments and results and take their practice and education seriously.

5. "How Easily Can I Contact You Or See You If I Have A Query Or A Problem?"

Some practitioners can be extremely hard to get ahold of when it comes to asking for advice following a treatment, especially if there is a problem. This is distressing and stressful if you are the patient. For example if your practitioner travels to a clinic only once a month they will not be available very often, so make sure you feel comfortable that advice in person will be available if you need it. For a more invasive procedure you should be given a mobile phone number to ring in case you have any worries out of normal hours.

6. "If I Have A Problem That You Can't Deal With What Would You Do?"

There may very rarely be a situation where more specialist advice is needed if an unusual problem arises. Someone who has thought this through will have a ready answer to this question, which might be that they have a more experienced contact in the profession, or the product manufacturer will provide back-up and advice (I know from experience that not all manufacturers are good at this)

7. "Which Products Do You Use And Why?"

I'm sure you have heard about the breast implant scandal where industrial grade ingredients were being used in medical products to make them very cheaply. This ended up making more profit for the clinics using them but had disastrous results for the patient.

There are plenty of people in the industry who believe that there will be problems in the future because untried and untested treatments are frequently being launched with little proof that they are safe over a long period.

There are at least 4 major brands of botulinum toxin (the main ones being Botox itself, Xeomin, Azzalure and Dysport) with other manufacturers, not always reliable, appearing around the world; there are several hundred different types of filler available in Europe. Cost for the different brands varies greatly, but a clinic using a cheaper brand may still charge the same as a clinic using a more expensive one. You need to be sure that your clinic chooses their recommended filler/s because they are effective and safe, not because they are the cheapest and maximise their profit!

A well-established company will have done a lot of research to back up their claims of safety, effect and durability, while others may only have tested their product on a small sample of people over a short period of time - I know which I'd rather be treated with!

The same is true with lasers - the cost to buy can range from 瞿20,000 to 瞿80,000 for equipment that is supposed to do the same job. Ask yourself why someone would buy such an expensive machine if a cheaper one would work as well and be as safe?

That's the seven questions but here are a few other things to think about before making your final decision about who to trust:

"Are You Being Given A True Choice Of Available Treatments Or Just Being Advised To Have A Treatment That Your Practitioner Happens To Do?"

If you are asking for advice on a particular problem you want to be sure you are offered the full range of options so you can make a choice based on the risks, benefits and costs of any treatment. Ethical advice would also include suitable treatments not offered by your practitioner - GMC guidance lays down that this is an important part of the consent process.

For example it is now agreed that the most basic part of facial rejuvenation is to have enough volume or "lift" in the cheeks, but there will be practitioners who don't have the skill to treat this area so will never offer it to you.

Positive points

If your practitioner is involved with research into new treatments, is asked for opinions on products by companies in the aesthetic field, or if they are appointed as a trainer by one of the big companies then this is a good sign that they are respected within their profession.

A good practitioner should make their own assessment of your situation and make suggestions to you that you might not have thought of rather than just give you the treatment you've asked for - they should be the expert advising you after all.

Don't forget to use your gut instinct. If someone appears open and easy to talk to the chances are that they will listen and be sympathetic to you when it comes to treatment, and you're more likely to be happy with the results; if they don't appear to listen or explain things, don't seem confident when asking your questions, or you just don't feel comfortable with the clinic setting then you would do better to look elsewhere.

Negative points

If you're not comfortable with the person during the consultation then go elsewhere.

Beware if the clinic you are in seems more concerned about selling you a treatment or series of treatments than listening to your concerns. Be especially wary if you are told that a certain price will only be valid if you book today, or if you are told that you could have additional surgery at the same time at a special rate. This is purely a sign that the clinic works on commission and may care more about its profit than your well-being.

My final piece of advice

In the end, there is no harm in going to see a few clinics so you can check out different opinions on what would suit you best. This way you'll get an idea of where you feel most comfortable.

How to Become a Plastic Surgeon

Plastic surgery is an exciting and rewarding field, one that many surgeons are glad they entered. But becoming a plastic surgeon isn't easy nor is it a short process. If you are interested in becoming a plastic surgeon, you must investigate the field thoroughly and start your efforts as early as high school.

When in high school you need to working hard in school, taking advanced classes, earning good grades (all A's and B's), and getting involved in extra-curricular activities and community service. All of these factors along with a good SAT or ACT test score will help you qualify for acceptance into a good college or university.

While in college it is best if you select a major such as biology or a specific pre-med major where all of the basic science classes necessary for medical school are included. College is a fun time, but if you're serious about a profession in cosmetic surgery you need to be diligent in your studies and earn competitive grades, especially in your science classes.

Medical schools weigh your science GPA very heavily along with your Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) scores. The MCAT is a broad test meant to assess your knowledge in many subjects with a substantial emphasis on the sciences. It is important to prepare well for the test. It is also important to start researching medical schools early on in your college career and learn all the requirements needed for acceptance to each institution.

At the end of your junior year, you will need to start applying to medical schools and it is wise to apply to more than one. In fact, it is not uncommon to apply to at least ten institutions. Applying to more schools gives you a better probability of being accepted to at least one institution. It does cost more to apply to more schools, but it's better to be safe than sorry.

During your senior year you should start to hear from schools and will be invited to tour the institutions and interview with the admissions committee. These interviews are a good time to ask questions about the school's cosmetic surgery program or connections. You will also need to decide which kind of philosophy best suits you, schools that will make you a Doctor of Osteopathy (D.O.) or a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) Both types of doctors enjoy the same rights and privileges.

Hopefully you will be accepted to at least one medical school and at this point you will probably feel very relieved because you are definitely on track for achieving your dreams. But the trek is definitely not over. You will need to complete your third year rotations and will need to pick a specialty.

Rotations give you a good opportunity to see if you really like plastic surgery or if there is another area of medicine that interests you more. Other ways to give you a taste of plastic surgery include serving an externship with a plastic surgeon and investigating the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

Following medical school you will need to complete your residency which may be 3 years of general surgery followed by 3 more years of plastic surgery. There are also integrated models that combine the two into 6-7 year programs and give you all the surgical training necessary.

Every program is different, and you will have to go through the residency matching process to select and be selected for a plastic surgery program. The matching process essentially works like this: the student makes a list of their top residency choices and the schools/hospitals make a list of their top students and matches are made.

You will have to make job arrangements during your last year of residency and complete all the requirements of the board of certification before you begin working. If you can make it through this long and challenging process, you will at last be able to enjoy the rewarding career of plastic surgery.

How Do the Best Plastic Surgeons Define Reconstructive Surgery and Cosmetic Surgery?

There are two distinct types of plastic surgery that we hear about in the news today. At times, there is confusion among the public as to what plastic surgery entails and what the different types are. There can be some stigma in some people's minds when it comes to some kinds of cosmetic surgery procedures. Especially, when you have celebrities who abuse cosmetic surgery.

Just because the word "plastic" is in the title does not mean that the surgery you will have involves plastic pieces. In some cases, I suppose there is some truth to that, but generally the Greek word from which we derive plastic from is "plastikos" which only means to mold or form into a structure.

Cosmetic surgery or plastic surgery is generally centered around two broad types of classification according to the best plastic surgeons. If a plastic surgeon is attempting to repair the person's ability to function, then we generally use the term reconstructive surgery. Although a reconstructive procedure may indeed also involve appearance, then general purpose is to correct some kind of defect of injury.

For instance, repairing a cleft lip and palate or fixing burns or the aftermath of traumatic injuries from dog bites, falls, car accidents, etc. would be prime examples of reconstructive surgery. In addition, fixing the septum inside someones nose so they can breath better would be in this classification. Another good example would be breast reconstruction after a woman has undergone breast cancer treatment.

The second broad category classification would be that of cosmetic or aesthetic surgery. In these procedures, the general aim of the plastic surgeon is to improve someone's appearance and in the process their self esteem. Often times, a person will request cosmetic surgery because they are just not satisfied with some part of their body.

Some common examples of this would be breast augmentation and/or breast reduction. In a breast enlargement, obviously there are implants used by the surgeon to form the body to the desired look. Sometimes, whether for appearance, function or both, a patient will request a rhinoplasty. This procedure aims to reshape the nose providing a better aesthetic appearance and easier breathing. I have personally had this done and while the improved appearance is a bonus, it does not even compare to the improved function! Another common example would be a procedure called liposuction which involves removing unwanted fat stores from different parts of the body.

Lastly, some of the cosmetic surgery procedures are not even real surgery in that they don't involve cutting and stitching. Some procedures involve the use of lasers to remove unwanted hair or to sand down the skin in an effort to improve scarring or hyperpigmentation.

These days, cosmetic surgery is considered "hip" and "trendy." Plastic surgeons are reporting all kinds of people, no matter their social status and frankly, their economic status, are seeking some form of cosmetic surgery procedure. It is almost epidemic in our culture today and is fueled by touched up, airbrushed images plastered all over billboards, TV shows and computers. Even here in the Midwest, in Kansas where I am from, there are plenty of people willing to undergo the knife. It is not just an east or west coast phenomenon anymore. These everyday folks for the most part know that cosmetic procedures are still surgery, yet they are willing to take the risk even though it may cause a financial hardship.

Empowering One's Self Through Cosmetic Procedures

The number of individuals resorting to cosmetic surgery has dramatically increased over the years. In the United States, a study conducted, the Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Research from period 2001 to 2008, revealed an overwhelming 10.2 million surgical and non-surgical procedures done to American people from various age brackets, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. The quelling figure may be attributed to the fact that in many developed countries, a session to cosmetic surgeons is becoming a trend in the form of gifts from parents for children who just graduated from high school or college or for those who have done exceedingly well in certain activities.

There is no question that reconstructive surgeries offer people a different dimension of benefits. Today, simple surgical procedures to correct unattractive physical attributes such as a prominent nose, for example which may be a cause of ridicule has become generally acceptable in many developed countries while non-surgical procedures such as dermabrasion and hair removal for example have become ordinary procedures that sometimes are done at home using home kits sold at the market.

What are the factors that brought the statistics to such an incredible rate? What are the reasons why more and more people undergo reconstructive surgeries? Does it have something to do with the global village that we are living in? Is morality an issue associated with cosmetic surgery?

One of the many factors why the statistics on cosmetic surgery has dramatically increased is due to cultural phenomenon popularized by the media. The television and the internet have promoted it using powerful and influential personalities as endorsers of such services and have been selling like hotcakes. Television programs on certain channels focusing on "major make-overs" are being played repeatedly featuring different subjects undergoing facelifts, toenail removal, etc. as an attempt to lure men and women into sampling some of such services. The cultural phenomena, indeed has clearly defined what constitutes a normal appearance and what is not.

Globalization has also empowered the humankind thus have become more vocal and aggressive in achieving what they want in life. Despite many criticisms especially form religious groups, goal-driven men and women indulge in activities that they think promote self-confidence and one of which is the correction of undesirable physical features that will pave way for possible advantages such as work promotion and financial rewards.

There is no doubt that undergoing such procedures has greatly improved body image and to the quality of life in general especially for those who have realistic goals in life. Recent studies revealed that clients who used to socially isolate themselves because of excessive skin hair growth or a distracting protruding facial mole for example, which have been a source of embarrassment since childhood have showed a considerable positive improvements in psychosocial aspect as evidenced by increased socialization among peers.

Indeed one cannot question why many people resort to such procedures. However, a certain degree of self-control should be exercised as many become obsessed in their desire to look perfect and contradict cosmetic surgeons' principles. Just as they say that an excess in anything does more harm than good.

The History of Cosmetic Surgery

Cosmetic surgery has changed a great deal since doctors began using such procedures to repair birth defects and repair facial wounds caused by war or service. The procedures that were once a necessity became popular among rich people striving for perfection and eventually became an accessible option for anyone wanting to reshape part of their face or body.

Molding the Body

The idea of reshaping or molding the body is not a new practice. Cosmetic surgeries have been done for roughly 4,000 years. It wasn't until the 18th century, however, that surgeons began using anesthesia during this reconstruction. Furthermore, it wasn't done in America until 1891 when John Roe reduced the risks associated with it.

Repairing the Body from War

World War II brought on a surge of cosmetic surgeries as men returned from the war with facial wounds. Cosmetic surgery was used to reconstruct and reshape the faces of men who were missing parts or had abnormal shapes due to wartime fighting. Though doctors couldn't remove the agony from the soldier's minds, they could fix the soldier's appearance.

The Changing Purpose of Cosmetic Surgery

The purpose of cosmetic surgery has changed over time. While it once served a valuable service to people who needed facial and body reconstruction, it has become a way for people to change features they simply don't like.

Some surgeries, such as rhinosplasty, are necessary for proper breathing, but more often than not, cosmetic surgery is done for purely aesthetic reasons.

Cosmetic surgery is an operation performed on many people in the general population to make themselves look and feel better. Our society is obsessed with beauty and perfection, making cosmetic surgery an option for anyone interested in changing the way they look.

Surgery for the Rich

Celebrities used to try and hide it if they did have cosmetic surgery to improve their appearance or reduce aging and it would turn into a huge media frenzy if someone was "outted". These days, however, celebrities are not as afraid to talk about having cosmetic surgery and they certainly aren't the only ones having it done.

Though cosmetic surgery was once considered only for rich people, it has grown in popularity and has become more widely accepted in recent years.

Risks and Side Effects of Cosmetic Surgery

The goal of cosmetic surgery is to improve your look or reshape deformities, but there are also risks associated with the procedure. You may experience nerve damage, blood loss, infection, tissue damage or scarring. The other risk is that the end result of the surgery may not be what you desire. Changes from cosmetic surgery are permanent and additional surgeries might be required to correct size, shape or functionality.

Understanding What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?

There is a huge difference between wants and needs, the necessary and desired. This is the same with traditional dentistry and cosmetic dentistry. In traditional dentistry, the objective of the person is to have his oral diseases cured and promote good oral hygiene. Meanwhile, cosmetic dentistry aims to improve the physical appearance of the person's teeth. This does not necessarily mean that the function of the tooth is improved as well. Looking good can come with a price - that's the case of cosmetic dentistry. If you want to look good, make sure that you are willing to shell out money. If you have a dental insurance policy, it may not cover the whole operation but it may cover some of the procedures depending on the health card.

Dental filling before can be categorized under traditional dentistry because it restores and prevents the decaying of the teeth. Now, it can be considered as one of the cosmetic dentistry treatments because the fillings used are used to match the shade of your teeth unlike before when the fillings leave a black spot on your tooth.

There are several common cosmetic dentistry procedures such as:

Whitening or Bleaching - This is the most common cosmetic procedure done on your teeth. Our teeth can be stained due to smoking, eating, and probably poor oral hygiene. You can have a great smile if your teeth are pearly white.

Composite Bonding - A decayed tooth may still be repaired and restored to its old appearance through composite boding. If you have broken tooth, through cosmetic dentistry, it can still be restored by applying a composite material to the surface of the said tooth.

Dental Implants - These are artificial tooth replacements to compensate for the loss of tooth. This will improve your smile and make you look younger.

Inlays or Onlays - These are made from composite material which are long lasting and a good way to fill a tooth. These are different from dental fillings because inlays are made in a dental laboratory before your dentist fits and bonds it with your tooth.

Dental Veneers - These are thin porcelain strips that are placed directly to the teeth. They are used to close spaces or cover discolored teeth.

Gum surgery - Some people have big gums that result to "gummy smile". This can be addressed in cosmetic dentistry. The excess gum tissue of the patient will be removed and sculpted by a dentist who is trained in periodontics. Meanwhile, people that lack gums which made their teeth look bigger will undergo grafting meaning the dentist will get tissue from other parts of their mouths.

For people who want to improve their smile, they can go to the nearest cosmetic dentist and ask for opinion. Cosmetic dentists are different from general dentists. They are trained specifically on cosmetic dentistry. They have completed extra training after they have graduated from dental school. This is the reason why you should go look for a cosmetic dentist instead of a general practitioner if your goal is to improve your smile aesthetically.

Killer Cosmetics and Ingredients You Should Know About

The cosmetic industry has been pulling the wool over your eyes as their cosmetics continue to have ingredients that are harmful and even deadly to human health. But they have no shame since they continue to add these ingredients to their cosmetics because they make the product smell better, flow nicer, cost less, dilute easy, easy to obtain, and fool you that they work.

These ingredients contaminate all forms of personal care products, such as soaps, facial creams, lotions, shampoos, conditioners, hair gels, and toothpaste. If you can not eat these products, than you should not be using them. Every time you put cosmetics and their ingredients onto your skin, they are suck into your blood and immediately go to your liver just as if you had chewed them and swallowed.

Does the cosmetic industry care about how harmful these ingredients are? Not really. They have been using these ingredients since these ingredients were discovered and found useful for their products. Of course, they do testing to make sure there are no major side effects on the skin or scalp, but a lot of the side effects don't show up quickly, since side effects would be related to diseases, which takes awhile to develop. And when these diseases develop, they are no longer related to the skin products used.

Here are some of the most frequently used cosmetic ingredients, which are toxic to your body and can create disease.

o Acrylamide, Acrylate, Butylaminoethyl, Methylacrylate polymer - These are synthetic polymers that are used in some body creams, shampoos, nail lacquers, fabrics. Animal laboratory testing has been linked to tumors. They are also known to cause various skin issues and allergic reactions.

o Parabens, Are para-hydroxybenzoic acid esters (methyl, propyl, butyl) - Are used as a preservative in cosmetics. It is estimated that 13,200 cosmetic and skin care products contain parabens. These chemicals are toxic and cause allergies. Some studies connect these chemicals with cancer. They have also shown to have hormone-disrupting qualities by mimicking estrogen and causing problems in the endocrine system.

o Propylene glycol - This chemical derived from petroleum and is a synthetic product. Because it attracts water it is used in cosmetics as a surfactant, solvent and humectant. It is used as a moisturizer in cosmetics and as a carrier in fragrance oils. It is also used in antifreeze and hydraulic brake fluid. It is toxic and causes allergic reactions. It affects the health of the liver and kidney. It also irriates the skin and prevent normal skin health growth.

o Sodium laurel, lauryl sulfate (SLS), sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) - Is a white powder used in thousands of cosmetic products and non-cosmetic products. SLS is a strong degreaser that dries the skin and hair. It can also cause hair loss. Used in many products that are called natural as a result these products are not natural. This product is found in shampoos, toothpastes, lotions, and creams. It is also found in many car washes, engine degreasers, and garage floor cleaners. When combined Triethanolamine (TEA) it can become a nitrosamine, which is a potent class of carcinogen.

o Mineral Oil, Paraffin, and Petrolatum - Are hydrocarbons which come from petroleum products. On the skin, it is heavy and greasy and clogs pores. It is toxic and leads to skin issues. It disrupts natural skin grown causing skin aging. It is also suspected cause of cancer and disrupts hormonal activity. If take internally, it prevents the absorption of nutrient into the blood in the small intestines.

o Phenol carbolic acid, Phenolic compounds - Are used as a preservative and found in many lotions and skin creams. They are toxic and can cause paralysis, convulsions, coma and even death from respiratory failure.

o Benzoic Acid, sodium benzoate - is used as a preservative in cosmetics and foods. Often combined with sodium bisulfites, which are banned in some countries. This is a dangerous additive, since in low amounts it has been associated with brain damage, neurological disorders, and cancer.

o Dioxane PEG, Polysorbates, Laureth, ethoxylated alcohols - Found in many cosmetics and other personal care products. It is easily absorbed through the skin and has been found to be carcinogenic.

o BHA and BHT - Butylated hydroxyanisole and butylated hydroxytoluene. These chemicals are synthetic antioxidants used in foods and cosmetics. Please avoid them, since they are toxic and may contain toluene which quite toxic.

There are hundreds of other chemicals you should know about so that you can avoid them in the products you use. All of them create problems on your skin, cause internal organ damage, or create diseases - acetone, aluminum chemicals, amyl dimethyl para, chloroxylenol, butylenes glycol, diammonium citrate, formalin or formaldehyde, and list goes on.

If you want good cosmetics and ingredients, check the cosmetics you plan to buy and look for more natural ingredients. Here is a list of good natural cosmetic ingredients - herbs, aloe vera, jojoba oil, coconut oil, natural palm oil, shea butter, olive oil, castile soap, yucca root, lactalbumin, balsam tolu, coconut fatty acids, benzoin gum, witch hazel, myrrh. This list is just a start for you to start looking for more good ingredients in cosmetics and other personal care products you use.

Virginia Cosmetic Surgery - Learn What Your Options Are First

There are a number of reasons why people opt to have cosmetic surgery in Virginia than in other states. Firstly, costs of Virginia cosmetic surgery are lower compared to states like California and New York but providing the same results. Also, you can combine Virginia cosmetic surgery with explorative holiday trips on the side.

Virginia Cosmetic Surgery Options

Virginia cosmetic surgery will generally offer you all the options that you can expect to have from any cosmetic surgery clinic in other states. These include:

Breast Changes- Through Virginia cosmetic surgery, you can start enjoying fuller breasts after an operation that will last no more than two hours (augmentation) or have sagging breats raised and reshaped into their former glory in three hours (breast lift). Men with breast problems may also undergo cosmetic surgery to improve their appearance as well.

Chemical Peel - You can replace damaged areas of your face with new, fresh-looking skin through this Virginia cosmetic surgery option. An alternative to this will be dermabrasion, which is also offered by Virginia cosmetic surgery clinics.

Collagen - If you're disappointed with how sunken your face and lips are, this particular Virginia cosmetic surgery option will inject collagen to affected areas in order to restore their original fullness. This option can be applied to the back of your hands as well.

Ear Changes - You can choose to reduce the size or prominence of your ears through Virginia cosmetic surgery. You may be required to recuperate for as long as a week before you can resume normal routines.

Eyelid Changes - There are a lot of things we don't like about our eyelids, and Virginia cosmetic surgery clinics will offer you several suggestions as to how to correct these natural and man-made flaws.

Facial Changes - A sagging face can be improved (facelift), while facial shape and form as well as your cheekbones and jaw line can also modified (facial implant) through Virginia cosmetic surgery. Do consider laser facial resurfacing as well for other facial problems.

Forehead Lift - Foreheads frequently come up a dismaying feature of most people, and if you find something you dislike about your forehead, you'll probably be able to correct such flaws through Virginia cosmetic surgery.

Hair Changes - Making it appear that you have a head full of lovely hair even when you're middle-aged already is still possible once you visit any Virginia cosmetic surgery clinic.

Body Changes - Liposuction is an overall shortcut to having a lovely figure just as long as you maintain it with the right diet and exercise regime while tummy tucks will only lead to improvements on the abdominal area. Both options are offered by Virginia cosmetic surgery clinics.

Nose Reduction - With Virginia cosmetic surgery, you can change your nose's shape, reduce or increase its size, or do just about anything with it. Take care however not to subject your restructured nose to any excessive force or hitting as you'll need about one year's worth of recovery before changes can finally become permanent.

Steps to Having Cosmetic Surgery in Virginia

Ask yourself why you're having cosmetic surgery in the first place. Cosmetic surgery should usually be done to make yourself look or feel better; if you're not comfortable with your decision and you're basically considering it for the sake of other people, cosmetic surgery may not be the right option for you.

Be realistic. It's natural to have certain expectations from cosmetic surgery, but be aware that surgeons are not God. Not even the best surgeon in the world can give you satisfactory results if you're not realistic with your expectations.

Consider your options. If, for instance, there is something you find displeasing about your face, you'll have a number of options to choose from. Consider the amount of recovery time, costs, and the procedure involved for each option and choose the one you're most comfortable with.

And lastly, speaking of costs and recovery time, do make sure that you set a budget for yourself as it's so easy to go overboard with cosmetic surgery. Take things one step at a time. Most Virgina cosmetic surgery options will make it necessary for you to rest for at least three days so it's important to know beforehand how long you'll be inactive.

Liposuction on Your Lunch Break? Lessening the Recovery Time For Cosmetic Procedures

Some of the most common questions asked of me as a cosmetic dermatologist are, "How soon can I go back to work," or "When can I resume my social activities?" For many people the recovery time a procedure requires is a major deciding factor when considering cosmetic dermatology. My clients are busy and for them, lying around for days or weeks coping with the pain or swelling from a procedure is not ideal. And, understandably, many do not want their friends and acquaintances to know they've had a procedure done. These are all valid concerns that I address on a daily basis.

One client told me she desperately wanted to get rid of the belly fat that a decade of regular Pilates sessions hadn't been able to remedy, but she just couldn't find the time. Just as busy as the rest of us, this client worried what her friends and colleagues might think if she were absent from her regular activities. Jokingly she asked, "Can we just do it on my lunch break?" The truth is technology has changed dramatically in even the last five years. You may be surprised to learn that some of the most common procedures I perform require minimal downtime. We're talking less than a day of recovery time.

One of the most exciting procedures available is LaserSculpt (TM) Laser Body Sculpting. And while we might not be able to squeeze it into your lunch break, many cases have clients heading to the mall or back to work immediately following the procedure. And I say, "Why not?" I know they're eager to try on clothing they've always dreamed of wearing and can't wait to leave friends wondering why they look so great!

LaserSculpt is an amazing alternative to liposuction because it permanently eliminates fat that can be hard to shed with diet and exercise. Let me say that again: it's permanent. That's right. You never have to worry about the fat coming back because the laser also removes the cells that create fat. This laser assisted liposuction is an in-office procedure done with a local anesthetic so the recovery time is very minimal.

I commonly use LaserSculpt on the neck, arms, tummy, back and thighs: some of the most difficult places to lose stored fat. The greatest benefit of this procedure is that no one will ever suspect that you have had liposuction because you are literally back at it within a day. One of the other benefits of LaserSculpt is that it also tightens your skin while removing excess fat so you won't have to worry about a second painful and invasive surgery to remove baggy or loose skin.

A lot of my clients are finding that the fear of invasive plastic surgery and the extensive recovery time no longer stands between them and the confidence-building results they're seeking. And it shouldn't. I often see a positive life change in my clients when they finally are free of that annoying wrinkle or unsightly bulge. Ask questions and educate yourself on the technology that is out there. You may be surprised by what you learn.

Make Skin Like New Again With Laser Resurfacing

As a person has new life experiences their appearance can drastically change. No part of the body reflects this as outwardly as the skin. Some of these changes can result from negative experiences like a scar from an injury. Some changes to the skin result from simple lifestyle choices like sun damage. Other changes to the skins are results of other conditions like scarring or skin spots related to severe acne. Still further examples of damage to the skin can come out of positive and joyous experiences such as scars or stretch marks associated with giving birth. With all of the circumstances that can cause drastic changes to the skin there is one that is the most common cause behind why people seek cosmetic procedures to reverse these signs and symptoms, and that is simply aging.

Far too often the only natural or simple topical treatments for such conditions only really work when used as methods of prevention. By the time a person is looking into having a cosmetic procedure or even a surgery done the damage is already established, whether by fault of their own or sheer circumstance. Many factors including age and location will play into the methods of repair available, for example, when it comes to laser skin resurfacing San Diego patients are more likely to enter treatment for sun spots or precancerous spots, while in Boston they might have more broken blood vessels or fine lines and wrinkles to worry about.

Non-invasive procedures are being developed every day, and many are proved highly effective in rejuvenating and repairing the skin. Laser skin therapies like intense pulse light photo-rejuvenation can reduce fine lines and wrinkles, sun damage, broken blood vessels and liver spots. Fraxel Repair is another method that targets microscopic sections of the skin and can be extremely accurate in eliminating the appearance of the aforementioned afflictions with a fast recovery time for areas like the face, hands and neck. Another method, Cool Touch technology, can be used for treating everything from acne scars to liver spots, while therapies like Relume can largely if not entirely reduce the appearance of stretch marks.

To find out more about which type of treatment might be right for you, it's best to learn as much as possible online and to go for a full consultation. New laser skin therapies and techniques are being developed regularly, meaning the level of pain and the recovery time could be greatly reduced by choosing the right method, as could the overall success of the procedure. When using laser treatments a good education can be just the ticket to full rejuvenation!

Cosmetic Surgery Video Marketing

With the field of medical care proving to have vigorous competition, cosmetic surgeons are under increasing pressure to diversify and increase the services that they offer such as making a cosmetic surgery video. This is because a doctor has to provide some incentive, whether it is his skills or experience, to a prospective patient to select his services. Without an effective marketing strategy, potential clients and potential money may well go straight to many of his many rivals in the same industry who are bidding for the same target audience. In today's difficult economic environment, even a well established track record and proven skills are not sufficient to guarantee success. An essential ingredient for a thriving practice is a well crafted, disciplined and sound marketing plan.

Online video sites are a good way to gain high visibility and by gaining a large viewership following you can drive traffic to your site. As such, online videos are a major platform for online marketing. This has created a new discipline, often referred to as Social Media Marketing. The potent combination of cosmetic surgery video and blogging creates an unparalled opportunity to reach out to potential patients at various levels by offering communication through audio, visually, or via the written word. This needs to be combined with an attractive and well laid out website. Video sites like YouTube and MySpace are used by millions of viewers and best of all, they are both free to use. Online videos are inexpensive to produce and give cosmetic surgeons a chance to reach out to millions thereby providing a highly attractive Return on Marketing Investment.

The cosmetic surgery video is essentially a straight forward commercial where surgeons explain what services they offer and why prospective patients should select them. The intention is to engage the attention of your audience and drive traffic to your website. The key issue is to gather a large following who will then generate a buzz by word of mouth. Make sure that there are explicit instructions on finding your website making it easy for your prospects to find you.

Having an attractive and informative website while getting prospects to find it, are critical to the success of any online strategy. A proven SEO strategy is required so that your website appears near the top of all Google, MSN or Yahoo searches without needing to waste money on sponsored ads. It is also a good idea to put out well crafted videos of testimonials from patients. I cannot think of a better way of gaining credibility and commanding attention

Finally be a proactive blogger and blog well and often. Do the correct thing by incorporating links to Social Bookmarking sites like Delicious and Digg and allows users that like the article to submit it to all of these important sites. Finally make it easy and convenient for interested people to subscribe to your blog and ensure adequate distribution by using Google FeedBurner and other RSS services. As you can see, cosmetic surgeons need to apply the same online marketing skills that seasoned marketers employ in marketing other kinds of services and they can do this by creating a cosmetic surgery video.

Rethinking Laser Skin Treatments

Forget everything you have ever heard about laser skin treatments. I am about to tell you the truth about laser treatments and everything you need to know about the amazing technology available today. As a cosmetic dermatologist I often recommend laser treatments for acne scarring, old age spots, Melasma (the mask of pregnancy), enlarged pores, fine wrinkles, sun damage and sagging skin. As a result, I hear concerns about the safety of laser treatments and the risks involved.

The truth is while laser skin treatments are not right for every skin type, laser technology has come a long way. Laser resurfacing is much safer and gentler than it used to be. The results are even better, and there is little-to-no recovery time. For example, I use the Fraxel laser skin treatment system in my practice and have found it to be the best treatment available today. Outdated laser technology and ablative lasers burned off layers of skin, requiring substantial downtime, and a risk of scarring. Because the Fraxel laser is non-ablative, it does not destroy your surface skin as earlier treatments did.

Fraxel lasers preserve the surface skin, leaving it untouched. Fraxel targets damaged tissue beneath the surface to eliminate sun-damaged collagen and pigmented cells. The healthy tissue is left intact so that healthy stem cells can create new collagen and elastic tissue in days. That's right, you actually gain new dermis and epidermis within a matter of two to three days.

Because Fraxel treatments promote collagen renewal and replacement you will also notice thicker and tighter skin, creating a more youthful appearance. This treatment can effectively erase damaged skin on your face, neck, chest, arms and hands. The FDA considers the Fraxel laser gentle enough to be used under the eyes, right up to the lash line. Fraxel also improves the tone and texture of the skin, reduces pore size, erases unwanted brown spots, and smoothes wrinkles. And, because there's no disruption of surface skin, you can immediately return to normal activities.

In fact, clients experience only slight discomfort during Fraxel laser treatment -- a sensation of heat. A strong topical anesthetic is applied before treatment and clients can use a chiller to direct cool air to any uncomfortable area. Afterwards, cold compresses are recommended to relieve any sensation of warmth after treatment.

I always enjoy speaking with clients who are determined to stay informed and aware when it comes to their health and safety. Make sure you ask appropriate questions when considering a laser treatment. For example, many spas and doctors claim to offer a fractionating laser. However, only a true Fraxel laser can be individualized to each client's needs, and deliver safe, uniform results.

Be sure you are receiving a safe treatment with state-of-the-art technology operated by a trained and experienced professional. A Board Certified Dermatologist will understand your skin's needs and suggest the best treatment. Don't be afraid to ask for referrals. An experienced physician will have plenty of clients who are happy to give their testimonials.

Cosmetic Surgery - Indiana - Cheapest Surgical Procedures in the Country

Cosmetic surgery in the State of Indiana ranks number one in the country for people making the maximum number of cosmetic procedures. An estimated number of more than 8.7 million people have undergone cosmetic surgery in the State of Indiana. It is really amazing and expected as well with the largest population of people within the range of 35 years to 55 years range. As all of us know the people in this age group prefer more cosmetic options than any other demographic.

The centre P.C. is the best option as you can get the much sought expert professional help for patients in the Michiana area of Indiana. Indiana has many doctors who specialized in many areas of the cosmetic procedures like hand surgery, breast enhancement, construction surgery and many other services, procedures and treatments.

Only breast enhanced women in Indiana

Indiana people do not welcome flat chested women. Often people relate Indiana with things that are flat, but not for the flat chested woman. This is the main reason why the women in Indiana go for breast enhancement and reconstruction surgeries. It is true that cosmetic surgery is reaching greater heights year by year and is becoming more and more popular all throughout the country. The growing need has proved Indiana is evident from the number of varieties of procedures undertaken here.

As all of us know the cosmetic procedures are expensive and Indiana also not an exemption. Even the costs involved in liposuction and Botox are also on the rise as the place is trying to keep in par with other areas of the country.

There are many well-experienced surgeons and Dr. Wally Zollman rated as the number one among them and he is highly renowned by carrying out successfully many thousands of cosmetic surgery procedures, without any reported complications. People admire this experienced hand from Indianapolis, Indiana as the best surgeon they have met. His achievements are innumerable, and just for a specimen I can tell you that he has done more than thousand liposuction surgeries.

Many people are worried about the fat accumulation in the body parts and they will desperately do work outs in gyms and diet control. But mostly they will not see any significant weight loss or reduction in fat contents. If you are one in this pathetic situation cosmetic surgery can help you under the able guidance of Dr. Zollman. Liposuction procedure will be the best choice for you, which will help you to contour the body in a better way. This procedure can be the first step in starting regular exercise and diet control for weight loss.

Cosmetic surgery really has come up a hope for millions of people who are desperately looking for viable options for cosmetic surgical procedures. If you are looking for pretty curved body without accumulates fact pockets, you can contact Dr. Zollman and comfortable with the best liposuction procedure in the country.

Dermal Cosmetic Fillers and Sun Protection

In the quest of looking youthful women and men are using cosmetic fillers and dermal fillers to minimize laugh lines, crow's feet, and forehead furrows.

These injectable cosmetic wrinkle fillers, such as Juvederm and Restylane, are soft tissue fillers approved as medical devices by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Cosmetic wrinkle fillers are injected into the skin to help fill in facial wrinkles, giving a smoother appearance. The body eventually absorbs most wrinkle fillers.

According to the FDA, successful results depend on:

* health of the skin
* skill of the doctor
* type of filler used

Health of the skin is where sun protection comes in!

The #1 cause of wrinkles is UV radiation which damages the skin over time. Too much sunshine damages collagen fibers and harms cellular DNA, creating deeper lines, reducing elasticity creating a more leathery appearance. Additionally, sun damage makes it more difficult for the skin to repair itself. The sun can also darken pigmentation which can accentuate a wrinkle or just look blotchy.

After spending all that money for dermal fillers to look young the last thing any of us wants is to speed up the process we are paying the big bucks to eradicate.

So here is the plan:

1. Use a Physical Sun Block

This can be a face shield, sun protection hat or a sun umbrella

The absolute best defense against the sun is a physical barrier between you and the sun. One example is using fabric draped across the face as the middle east women do.

If draping fabric across your face is not practical, which is often the case, consider a good wide brim sun hat or sun umbrella. These very effective physical blocks are quick and easy to use.

A wide brim sun protection hat or sun umbrella is very good UV protection for the sun rays coming straight down at you, but it does not provide a barrier from the sun's reflective UV rays. Reflective rays are those pesky UV rays that bounce off surfaces like a parked car or the sand and come underneath your sun hat or sun umbrella.

2. Use sunscreen to protect against reflective UV rays.

Here is where sunscreen enters into the sun protection arena. (Whenever possible, it is never wise to think of sunscreen for all day sun protection. Even the highest SPF sunscreen will NEVER protect as well as highest UPF fabric.)

a. I think we all know that using broad spectrum sunscreen is a must. Broad spectrum means the sunscreen has ingredients that block both UVB AND UVA. Ingredients that block UVA radiation are Avobenzone, Zinc Oxide and Titanium. (UVB is the only wavelength measured in the SPF rating, so until the term broad spectrum became popular, many sunscreens did not include UVA ingredients.)

b. Apply enough sunscreen and be sure to apply it evenly. We have all had episodes when we "missed a spot" and paid the price of a painful sunburn. Wearing enough sunscreen means approximately 1 tsp for the face and neck.

c. Sunscreen should be reapplied every 2 hours.

d. Apply sunscreen 20 minutes before walking out the door and wear it everyday.

3. Beware and watch for unexpected sun exposure like sitting next to a window while at work or driving.

4. Don't be fooled by a cloudy or cold day. UV radiation can penetrate clouds and is not lessened by cold weather.

Plastic Surgeons Offer Procedures for Both the Arms and Legs

Perhaps you are happy with most of your body, but you wish to improve your arms and legs. Just because you do not need the typical types of cosmetic surgery, does not mean you cannot benefit from some type of procedure. In fact, there are some surgeries that may benefit you greatly. Learn what some of your options are.

The arms are troublesome for many people who feel they have too much fat in this area. Though this part of the body may not get as much attention as the breasts or stomach area when it comes to surgery, plenty of plastic surgeons offer an arm lift. Unfortunately, many people get what are called bat wings, especially as they age. This is because the skin may become loose, and when mixed with excess fat, the arms appear to jiggle when they are moved. In addition, remember that the arm is often one of the most visible body parts in pictures, even when you only take a photo from the waist or chest up. You may be able to hide imperfections in your body as you take pictures, but the arms are hard to hide in most photos, so you may appear heavier than you really are if you have a lot of fat in this area.

If you are uncomfortable wearing shorts or skirts, you may need liposuction in your legs. Many people do not like their thighs or even their calves, so if you feel you have too much fat in these areas, look for plastic surgeons that offer surgery to correct the issue. Just make sure you carefully explain to your doctor what kind of results you are looking for.

If you are unhappy with either your arms or your legs, you have options other than liposuction to get a leaner look. This is because many plastic surgeons can add muscle, instead of simply taking away fat. For example, if you want larger biceps or calf muscles, these can be implanted in the appropriate areas. This will allow you to look stronger and more toned than ever, which is helpful if exercise has not helped you achieve this look on its own.

You should look for plastic surgeons in your area that can perform these procedures if you are interested. These are just some of the most commonly known options aimed at improving the arms and legs. Schedule a consultation with doctors near you, and get to know additional options.

Increasing Use of Plastic Surgery For Men

Women are not the only vain creatures these days - more and more men are resorting to plastic surgery in a bid to enhance their looks, albeit through artificial and painful means. But while some men are choosing to go under the knife for purely personal or aesthetic reasons, others are taking the leap because they believe it will enhance their career professionally - and make them a more powerful - or at least more attractive - force to be reckoned with.

The sad fact is, men want the same things that women want: to look younger, fitter and thinner, with regular, even features and a healthy glow. They are starting to realize that in today's competitive market, looking tired and haggard with droopy eyelids, dark circles and a weak chin just won't cut it. And if they have big boobs and a flabby belly to boot - well, forget about becoming a vice president in the firm, let alone the CEO.

It's estimated that the grooming market for men is worth more than $3.5 billion these days, with more and more members of the male species going under the knife for cosmetic reasons. In one survey of people of the male persuasion carried out by - not surprisingly - a plastic surgeon, it was found that:

* Four percent believed that their level of physical attractiveness would affect their success on the job, and make them feel more powerful

* 42 percent believed that their career would be made better if they could just improve one tiny thing about their face

* 32 percent thought that looking younger would affect their job performance more positively

Plastic Fantastic

Here is a list of the most popular plastic procedures for men, in no particular order:

* Gynecomastia, or Male Breast Reduction. It's estimated that about 15 percent of all men are unhappy with the size of their breasts, and now some are finally doing something about it. Men develop man boobs, or moobs, for a variety of reasons, including hormonal changes, steroid abuse and being drastically overweight. Surgery to get rid of them sometimes involves a full operation, while on some occasions means utilizing the latest in liposuction combined with laser surgery.

* Eyelid Surgery. Also known as blepharoplasty for men, this procedure can be purely cosmetic, functional or both. It seeks to correct both sagging upper eyelids, as well as puffy bags underneath the eyes. Usually performed under just local anesthesia, it trims away excess fat, muscle and skin, with the remaining bits reattached in a way that makes the eye area appear younger and more refreshed. The result: tighter, more taut eyelids and smoother under-eye areas.

* Pectoral Enhancement. Men who have tried everything but still have a chicken chest are now relying on pectoral implants to give them the bosoms they have always dreamed of. If no amount of exercise and diet has made your chest appear less than concave, your surgeon can insert implants made of silicone directly underneath the chest muscle to make the area appear more filled out. Requires general anesthesia and an overnight hospital stay - much like a boob job (ED: what's the difference then?).

* Nose Job, aka Rhinoplasty. Carried out using a local or general anesthetic, depending on what needs to be done and personal preference, this is an out-patient procedure which can greatly affect a person's looks. Costs will vary but the vast majority of men who opt for this op say it's money well spent. Men can have rhinoplasty from the age of 15, girls from age 13 (that is when their nose stops growing, evidently!).

* Liposuction. This method of weight loss involves using a cannula to literally suck the fat from your body. In men, problem areas are usually the breasts, love handles, tummy, thighs and neck. Tiny incisions are made so the vast majority of folk, if not all, will not even know you've had the procedure done. Some men even have it done on their backs...

* Hair Transplants. Many guys believe that nothing makes them look less virile than a lack of hair. Male pattern baldness affects a great many men, so if you can't stand your head resembling a ping pong ball, this could be the treatment of choice. It's fairly simple: your surgeon will take "donor" hair from the sides or back of your scalp, then surgically insert them in the bald patches, where it will hopefully start to grow. Then again, you could just buy a tasteful hat...

* Chin and Jawline Augmentation Surgery. Nothing spells out weakness more in a man than having a weak chin - or so proponents of chin surgery would have us believe. As as a strong chin and jawline are considered signs of a "real" man, many men seek to correct theirs when they fall flat (or rounded, flabby and soft). Surgery consists of various types of chin implants which make your jaw more angled and square.

* Penis Extension Surgery. If slicing through the penile ligament sounds appealing, this is the operation for you. This operation, also known as phalloplasty or male enhancement surgery, doesn't actually make your member more massive, it just makes it dangle lower. You may prefer a different - and considerably more invasive - procedure where fat from another part of your body is injected into your Johnson to increase its girth. Yowee!

Non-Invasive Cosmetic Treatments for Men

Apart from full-on surgery, men are also investing in less invasive cosmetic operations to look better. It's estimated that about one-seventh of all Botox anti-wrinkle injections are done on men, and guys are also jumping on the injectable filler band-wagon, to smooth out wrinkle lines and plump up lips. In fact, the American Academy of Facial and Plastic Surgery reckons that from 2000 to 2007 there was 91 percent increase in the number of men non-surgical facial enhancements.

Men make up 20 percent of all laser hair removal procedures as well, according to statistics. They are getting to grips with unwanted hair in other ways as well, with male waxing salons becoming more and more popular to make chests, buttocks and backs sleek and smooth. Pretty hands and feet are no longer a woman-only domain either: the number of male manicures and pedicures are on the rise, among men of all sexual orientations, and hair salons for men are often a lot more than the simple barbershop of Andy Griffith's day.

If you fancy a spot of plastic surgery, it doesn't matter if you're a man or woman - what matters is that you have realistic expectations and find a qualified, Board-certified surgeon in whom you have complete trust. But if you expect that changing your appearance will drastically change your life, think again. Beauty is only skin deep; in the long run, the oomph behind the facade is usually more important.

Cosmetic Surgery: Becoming Attractive Has Never Been Easier

If you have heard or have friends that have complained that their breasts are too small or their stomach has too much fat, then you may not be a stranger to conversations regarding cosmetic surgery. It doesn't help the situation when you see celebrities who have had cosmetic surgery on television. You'd be surprised at the amount of people who are already attractive who feel that they are unattractive or secretly wish to have certain parts of their body altered to be more appealing.

Since cosmetic surgery offers an easy solution to those who are not satisfied with their looks, it has become more widely acceptable. More people are able to afford it and the industry always seems to be booming since there is also a large amount of people who seem to find imperfections with their bodies. Since the standards of beauty are so rigid and high, many women young and old find themselves struggling to come to turns with their looks and maintain their self-confidence.

Since it seems that the mass majority of people are obsessed with their looks, many have tried many diets, supplements and exercise regimens. Basically anything that promises to enhance their shape or get rid of fat are popular sellers. What most people ultimately find that instead of continuously spending their money on one fad after another, hoping to see some results, they can always turn to cosmetic surgery since it yields almost immediate results. It is one of the most popular ways to get a complete makeover.

Surgical and cosmetic enhancements can be performed on anyone who is of legal age for consent in the United States. Anyone 18 and older can schedule a consultation with a cosmetic surgeon and after surgery; they can look like their favorite celebrity or role model.

Since the vast majority of plastic surgery procedures are performed on women, it is safe to assume that women have a very large interest in the way they look. They are willing to make the necessary investment to improve what they deem to be their worst features. By providing an option for women and men to change the way they look, medical technology has made it possible to for people to increase their overall satisfaction with bodies and their lives. The most performed surgeries are breast enhancements, rhinoplasty and liposuctions. Many people tend to look at getting plastic surgery as an alternative to exercising and dieting.

Even though many people would love to get this type of surgery, it is still not something that some cannot afford. Some medical insurance companies will cover reconstructive procedures such as breast reconstruction after a mastectomy. Even if you feel you can't reasonable make room in your budget for the complete cost, you can always look into financing and small loans from banks to help you afford it. You may be able to convince someone to give it as a gift. No matter how or when you choose to go under the knife, you can feel safe and confident since you will be getting the look you want.

How to Afford Elective Cosmetic Surgery

Cosmetic surgery most often falls into the category of procedures that insurance companies deem as non-essential or "elective". This means that the surgery is not being done to deal with a life threatening disease or other critical medical need. For this reason most medical insurance policies will not pay for cosmetic surgery procedures. This then leads to the question- how do most people afford cosmetic surgery?

Some who choose to do cosmetic surgery are the elite and wealthy such as Hollywood movie stars and these type of clientele will most likely simply pay cash for their chosen procedure. But, many average middle class people would like to have a cosmetic surgical procedure done for one reason or another. Surgery of any kind is most often not cheap despite the fact that there has been technological innovation, growing competition and growth in the cosmetic surgery industry which has lead to substantial cost reduction for some procedures. So, what are the options available to pay for a chosen cosmetic surgical procedure?

Option one would be to save money and when ready pay cash to the physician for the procedure. The advantage of cash is that many physicians will negotiate the price with you if they know they are going to get a single lump sum payment from you. Cash is always king and don't ever forgo at least attempting to negotiate a lower price if you are going to offer a cash payment. Option two is to make use of many financing options that are now available for many medical procedures. Medical finance is a growing business segment and is truly opening up the option for many people to have procedures done that would have previously been unaffordable to them. Basically two finance options exist- some doctors who operate large practices will offer their own financing to the patient. The second method is to make use of an outside finance company that specializes in medical loans that works with the doctor's practice and has a variety of payment plans available for each given procedure.

Medical finance involves all the same rules that would apply to any other type of major purchase such as an automobile. You will want to be careful to understand what the annual interest rate is that you will be charged, the total number of payments that will be due and what each monthly payment amount will be. Like any other service you should shop around and try and get the best interest rate and payment plan available to you. The criteria for receiving a medical loan will be just like any other loan- your credit score and previous loan repayment history will be used to qualify you for a total loan amount and for a particular interest rate. The better your credit score, the better loan terms you will be able to negotiate.

Medical financing is a viable option that makes many elective surgical procedures that were previously unattainable to many people now available to a much wider client base.

Acne Scaring - Are Cosmetic Facial Fillers the Answer?

Acne scars and other depressed scars and deficiencies can often greatly benefit from hyaluronic fillers like Restylane and Perlane. Filling depressed scars is an effective treatment that is nonsurgical, minimally invasive, and gives benefits that can easily last six months to a year, and in some cases, longer.

Can fillers improve scars?

You may have an indentation from acne scars, a surgery, a cut from a sports injury, or for a number of other reasons. This deficiency can stand out in your appearance and detract from your facial aesthetics. For some, scars can even be painful reminders of past problems. Fillers like Perlane and Restylane are often the best option for diminishing the visibility of scars on the face by eliminating skin irregularities and restoring the skin to its natural texture and shape. By filling in the deficiencies that are responsible for these indented scars, you may find that your scars are no longer noticeable. Facial fillers are safe and minimally invasive treatments that require little to no recovery time. This, combined with their effectiveness, make them the leading choice for acne scar treatment without the prolonged recover associated with surgery.

Can Laser Resurfacing to treat scars?

Laser treatment at first seemed like a promising technology, but it has never reliably delivered great results, and it is associated with many complications, including permanent disfigurement. Laser resurfacing for acne often yields no results, or - worse - it can make things worse. An erbium laser generally provides only minimal improvement, while something like CO2 laser resurfacing is so aggressive that it can damage your natural pigmentation. Fractional CO2 skin treatment are often big disappointment and very expensive. It is almost always much safer and more effective to choose acne scar fillers than laser treatment.

How to Find a Facial Fillers Expert

Treating facial scars is both a medical procedure and an art that should be performed by a doctor who specializes in treatment with facial fillers. Your doctor, whether a dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon, should also possess the great artistic skill needed to precisely place the filler for the best aesthetic results possible. It can be tough to know where to begin when trying to assess your potential treatment provider's ability, experience, expertise, artistic ability, specialization, and so on, but with some careful research you can find someone well-qualified to give you great results. When seeking someone to help you remove acne scars, always find out whether the doctor will personally perform the procedure or instead use an assistant to administer your treatment. Only choose a doctor who will personally treat you; after all, you don't know anything about the assistant's ability, and your results will be much better when the most qualified doctor performs them, rather than a non-physician in training.

An assistant may cost less, but your results will likely not be as good. Carefully study your potential doctor's scar removal before and after photos, noting any changes in camera angles or lighting conditions. If you don't like what you see in the example photos, you probably won't like what you see in the mirror later either. Make sure that your doctor has a lot of experience in filling scars on the face. Choose a doctor who specializes in facial fillers. Every doctor has special areas of talent and experience. Just as you wouldn't go to the same doctor for brain surgery and heart surgery, even if both are leading surgeons, you need to choose a doctor who makes fillers and facial cosmetic treatments a focus of their practice. Finally, evaluate how well you get along with your potential doctor at your initial consultation. You should feel comfortable around your doctor and confident in his or her ability to help you. Sometimes for reasons beyond explanation a doctor and patient don't "click" together, in which case it's okay to move on.

Latest Developments in Skin Lightening Drugs

Dark spots on the skin can provoke a desire for cosmetics improvements. But not everyone is eager to expose their skin to lasers or chemicals peels for the sake of an even skin tone. For those consumers, reports the Harvard Women's Health Watch, gentler topical skin bleaching drugs do exist.

Most topical prescriptions for removing ages spots operate by interrupting formation of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color and create sun tans. Yet, to extract the maximum benefit from any lightening agent, it should be used in conjunction with a sunscreen holding an SPF of 30 or more.

Hydroquinone

The pigment reducing ingredient hydroquinone still makes the Harvard Women's Health Watch list of topical skin lighteners amid a recent Food and Drug Administration ban on the drug. The FDA suspects that hydroquinone may not be safe for human use because in studies, mice fed hydroquinone developed cancer.

The controversy over hydroquinone usage hinges on the validity of whether on not the mice studies exemplify real-world applications of this ingredient in actual human drug applications. Regardless of this ongoing debate, many dermatologists still view hydroquinone as the ideal medicine for treating age spots. At present, 1-2% hydroquinone-based lightening creams are still available as over-the-counter medications.

Tretinoin

Besides hydroquinone, tretinoin offers a less heated option for minimizing a variety of skin blemishes like acne, wrinkles and age spots. The one drawback of tretinoin is that visible signs of pigment lightening may take months to see. Tretinoin is available with a prescription under the brand names Retin-A, Renova and Avita.

Adapalene gel

Like tretinoin, doctors prescribe adapalene gel to treat acne. But off-label uses of adapalene gel include improving photo-aged skin. Brand name versions of adapalene gel include Differin.

Precautions

While providing cosmetic benefits, skin lightening drugs also bear common side effects like skin irritations, swelling and redness. In some users, these conditions subside within days. Also, if you have other skin ailments or sensitivities, like eczema or sun-sensitivity, inform your doctor prior to using any skin lightening medications to avoid skin damage and possible hyper-pigmentation (darkened skin).

Source:

Harvard Women's Health Watch (2007, December 5). Topical Treatment for Age Spots. Newswise.

Different Types of Cosmetic Dental Procedures

Shiny white sparkling teeth add up to a radiant smile. This whiter and brighter smile not only lightens up your whole face but also enhances your overall personality and boosts up your confidence.

If you are unhappy because your teeth are stained and not straight, don't panic. There are many choices available in the field of cosmetic dentistry to treat discolored, chipped, misshapen or missing teeth.

According to the statistics provided by the National Oral Health Surveillance System (NOHSS), approximately 21% of Americans aged 65 and above lose their entire natural teeth due to tooth decay or gum disease.

In a world where everybody wants to look smart, young and beautiful, having white pearly teeth for brighter smile and aesthetically pleasing personality is a priority for many. From slight changes to major repairs, a cosmetic dental surgeon can transform your smile into the beautiful dazzling smile that you have always dreamed about.

There are several cosmetic dental procedures available and an expert dentist can help you determine which dental work will work the best in transforming your smile.

Some popular cosmetic dental procedures that can reshape your teeth, close spaces, restore missing teeth, alter the length of your teeth as well as improve oral problems, such as your bite are as follows:

Bleaching: Also called teeth whitening can brighten and whiten your teeth that have become dull or stained/discolored due to coffee, tea and tobacco use. There are different shades of white are available and you can make the choice on how whiter you want your teeth.

Fillings and Bonding: Dental bonding is the process of aesthetically correcting small defects in your teeth, such as chips, or gaps between teeth. During the process, a tooth-colored material is shaped and bonded to the tooth. Besides closing spaces between teeth or restoring the original shape of chipped teeth, bonding also is used as a tooth-colored filling for small cavities.

Dental veneers: Veneers are thin caps made out of porcelain or plastic to fit over your front teeth to correct major cosmetic problems like chipped teeth, severely stained teeth or teeth with uneven surfaces or rough texture. It is a longer lasting, but a costlier way to enhance your smile.

Crowns: Often referred to as a cap, a crown is shaped to resemble a natural tooth and is placed over top of the badly decayed, broken or cracked tooth to restore it to its original shape and appearance. Crowns are costlier than veneers and are the most time-consuming. They have the longest life expectancy of all cosmetic dental procedures though.

Contouring and Reshaping: Tooth reshaping and contouring is commonly used to alter the length, shape or position of ill-shaped teeth and correct small problems with bite as well.

Dental Bridge: It is a false tooth known as pontic that bridges the gap created by one or more missing teeth. A dental crown is placed between two teeth to take the place of a missing tooth so you can restore your pearly while smile.

Dental Implants: A dental implant is arguably the most-natural-looking, permanent solution for replacing your missing teeth. Dental implants have two main components- a titanium material "root" or "implant" that is screwed into the jawbone, and a custom-made porcelain crown (tooth) that fits onto the bolt. A dental implant procedure ends up with beautiful, functional new teeth in your mouth.

Important Information About Cosmetic Dentistry

What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?

This type of dentistry refers to any dental treatment that is aimed to enhance the appearance of your teeth and gums. Outward appearance matters a lot in order to evaluate the personality of anyone. If you are not happy about how your smile appears to others, you need to improve it by going through a cosmetic dentistry. Similarly, if you have yellow teeth and you want to get a smile just like celebrities, then again getting dental treatment from a cosmetic dentist is an ideal solution for you.

Benefits of Cosmetic Dentistry

Increased Self-Confidence

Apart from improving your smile, this type of dentistry has many benefits. One such benefit is increased self-confidence. Damaged teeth can affect your smile. Furthermore, this can affect your self-confidence. However, if you have a perfect smile with the help of dental procedures, you will feel confident while talking to people.

Improved Health

Cosmetic dental treatments are not only useful for outward appearance; they create a strong impact on your oral health. Fillings by cosmetic dentists eliminate the chances of teeth decay, which results in healthy gums and teeth.

Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures

There is a lot to know about it as it consists of different cosmetic procedures. Have a look at some of the most common ones below.

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is one of the most common as well as recommended procedures. This is because a lot of people get stains on their teeth through smoking, drinking tea and coffee, food, or poor hygiene of the mouth. For such people, teeth whitening is the best solution.

Composite Bonding

If you have decayed, discolored, broken, or chopped teeth, then you do not need to worry about it, as they can get repaired through composite bonding. Composite bonding is a dentistry service in which the dentist applies composite materials into the cavities or onto your tooth's surface. After that, he shapes your tooth with a light of high intensity. The procedure gets blended with your natural teeth.

Dental Veneers

Your cosmetic dentist may recommend you get dental veneers if you did not get desired results from teeth whitening. Another reason for recommending dental veneers can be that you have visible gaps between your teeth. This procedure will fill those gaps.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are also called artificial replacement. If you have lost some of your teeth, dental implants can give you back your smile by replacing your artificial tooth roots. This dentistry service compensates well for the loss of your teeth.

Plastic Surgery is Common Among Utah's Mormons

Plastic surgery in Utah is so common that Salt Lake City was voted the "vainest" city by Forbes magazine. Don't believe it? The study looked at the number of plastic surgeons per capita and compared the top 50 cities in the U.S. Salt Lake City has six plastic surgeons for every 100,000 people. New York City has four plastic surgeons per 100,000 residents and Los Angeles has 4.1 per 100,000 people. Miami claims 5.2 plastic surgeons per every 100,000.

So the obvious question is why are there so many plastic surgeons in Salt Lake City, Utah anyway? As a plastic surgeon practicing just north of Salt Lake in Layton,Utah, I feel that I have a pretty good handle on what is going on.

A little background information is in order. The dominant religion in Utah is Mormonism or LDS, representing approximately 60%-70% of Utahns. No, not the strange, clothing making, polygamists that you see on T.V. Just regular people that share common beliefs. Within and between neighborhoods, Mormons go to church together with their "ward" at the same time every Sunday and get to know each other very well similar to the way that co-workers do. Mormons are well known for having many children and generally get married and start having children at a relatively young age. Utah has some of the prettiest women in the U.S. (I am a little biased here, but it is true) and take care of themselves very well.

So you have the perfect storm of young mothers, who are finished having babies at a young age. Childbirth and the associated stretch marks, loose and hanging skin have taken a toll on their tummies and breasts. They are generally attractive and care about their image and appearance. They have a tight social network of many women whom may have previously had cosmetic surgery and there is a lot of pressure to "keep up with the Jones's". Having plastic surgery is a very socially acceptable thing in Utah, which may surprise outsiders with a Hollywood based opinion of Utah.

A very large percentage of plastic surgery in Utah is body contour and breast surgery. Generally a "mommy makeover" includes various combinations of a breast lift, breast augmentation, tummy tuck and liposuction. These are relatively conservative women who just want their bodies back. Of my cosmetic practice in Utah, I would estimate that 95% of my patients are female and 80% see me for one of these procedures.

Another reason that plastic surgery is so popular in Utah is the number of patients whom travel from out of town for plastic surgery. The cost of plastic surgery is quite inexpensive when compared to the rest of the U.S. For example, the cost of a tummy tuck is around $5,000 - $7,000 as compared to $8,000 - $15,000 in places like California. The cost of breast augmentation is around $4,000 as compared to around $6,000-$10,000 in many other states. The competition from the number of plastic surgeons has driven the prices down. Similarly, the cost of living is a little lower than many areas in the U.S. Patients are flocking from all over the country to benefit from these low prices. I would estimate that 20% of cosmetic surgery patients visit my practice from out of state. Salt Lake City has a large, convenient, international airport which makes the travel easy and is a short flight from California and other more populated areas.

Although the cost is significantly cheaper, this is not at all a statement of quality. To help cut costs many plastic surgeons in Utah do their procedures in an office operating room to cut down facility fees. Generally, the marketing budget for Utah plastic surgeons is significantly less than that of, say a Beverly Hills plastic surgeon. All a saving to the patient.

There are certainly a number of other factors that help explain the number of plastic surgeons in Utah but the "mommy makeover" and out of town travel patients top the list.

Cosmetic Dentistry - Enhancing Your Smile

Cosmetic dentistry is becoming increasingly popular these days as improving the overall appearance of one's smile and protecting teeth and gums is proving more and more important. Most cosmetic dentistry procedures focus on elective and aesthetic dental treatments. Several basics of this dentistry have become common practice in traditional dentistry. For example, composite fillings were once labelled cosmetic because of the colouring of the filling and the aesthetic element; however the composite filling has become standard material in a dental practice. Teeth whitening kits are now used in almost every dental surgery as the demand for a white smile has prevailed. Going to a cosmetic dentist has its benefits as they specialise in the aesthetic techniques and have a huge amount of experience in using them, they can also advise you in what procedures are popular and recommended to perfect your smile.

There is a range of popular cosmetic dentistry options available to you that you can use separately or as a whole to flesh out your enhancement procedures. Porcelain veneers is one such procedure and they are the ultimate in dentist treatments. It involves ultra-thin shells of porcelain being bonded to the front of the client's teeth and it allows the dentist to brighten, lengthen and entirely reshape the client's teeth. Porcelain veneers are resistant to staining and when done correctly will make your smile look fantastic, hence the popularity. Invisalign is groundbreaking procedure in orthodontics and is proving very popular. It uses a series of unobtrusive clear plastic aligners to slowly straighten the patient's teeth. It is dissimilar to metal braces in the fact that the custom made aligners are changed every two weeks as the teeth progressively move into place. The extra advantage to Invisalign is that the translucent aligners can be removed easily during eating, brushing and flossing.

Professional teeth-whitening has been an extremely popular procedure in cosmetic surgery for a while now. There are several whitening methods available to you, and the most common one is at-home teeth whitening kits. You can also have your teeth whitened at the dental surgery using professional grade whiteners and specialized light activators. You can also use teeth whitening kits at home that use custom-made whitening trays and prescription strength whitening gels that are not available at general stores. Your cosmetic dentist will create a customized whitening plan to help you achieve a suitable level of whiteness for your teeth.