Treatments Your Cosmetic Dentist Can Do for You

If you are concerned about your appearance because of your teeth, you might need a cosmetic dentist to help you with that. A cosmetic dentist is responsible for improving a person's facial features by focusing on the dental attributes of that person. You will benefit from the assistance of a cosmetic dentist if you need to boost your confidence with a beautiful smile. A cosmetic dentist offers different types of treatments. Here are some of them.

Veneers

Veneers are artificial teeth enhancers. They are made of porcelain to replicate the natural appearance of the teeth. They are also very thin so that they may fit the teeth without making them bulge. A veneer is actually designed to be placed over a damaged or chipped tooth. They can also be adjusted to take the shade of your natural teeth. Once they are placed, check their color. If you are not satisfied, ask your doctor to enhance the color before they are cemented.

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening or teeth bleaching is very popular among actors and actresses. Because these people are supposed to look gorgeous in front of the public, they make an effort to appear flawless. They go to a cosmetic dentist to get their teeth whitened. Although there are many available teeth whitening products available in the market, the product and the method used by a dentist is still the most reliable and effective option. If you have undergone teeth whitening treatment, you should refrain from eating foods that may discolor your teeth. You must not also eat or drink anything that is extremely hot or cold.

Crowns

A crown is an artificial tooth that is specifically made to look like a normal tooth. It is placed over another tooth to create a more pleasing dental appearance. Before this crown is placed, the tooth is reshaped so that the crown will fit perfectly on it. The crown is also assessed to make sure that once it is placed, the patient won't feel uncomfortable with it. It is also securely inserted to permanently fasten it.

Dental bridges

A dental bridge is another artificial replacement of a missing or damaged tooth. It is a false tooth that is permanently placed in a fixed position. It is attached protectively to the teeth so that it cannot be removed easily. While dentures can be removed, dental bridges are fastened and cannot be taken out by any simple methods. You will need the assistance of a dentist if you want to take off your dental bridges.

Everyone wants to have a beautiful smile to enhance a person's facial features. A smile is the most inexpensive accessory you can have. However, if you don't have nice teeth, it is difficult to flash an irresistible smile. It will also be costly if you need to get treatment for your dental needs. So if you want to save money for any possible dental treatment, take care of your oral health. Practice proper oral hygiene and do not forget to visit your dentist regularly.

Watch Out for That Ugly Duckling Mole!

Moles and birthmarks are extremely common colored or pigmented spots that occur on the skin. Some people may just have a few, while others can literally have hundreds of moles scattered about their bodies. Most moles are harmless, but it is very important to know what moles should look like and also what to look for to help recognize a cancerous mole (melanoma) forming on the skin. If caught early, melanomas are typically curable. Here are a few tips about moles:

1) It is important to "get to know" your moles so you can recognize if they change. Though most moles and birthmarks are harmless, if they change it will be much easier to detect if you and your physician know what they previously looked like. Consider taking pictures in areas that are difficult to follow such as the back and backside of the legs.

2) Get to know your ABCDE's. The ABCDE system to evaluate moles was created as a warning system for melanoma:

Asymmetry: one half of the mole is different than the other half of the mole

Border: a mole with irregular, notched, or jagged borders

Color: often have multiple colors or dark, irregular colors

Diameter: moles larger than a pencil eraser (6 mm)

Evolving: any growing, changing, or symptomatic mole

3) Watch out for the Ugly Duckling Sign! If you notice a mole that looks different than your other moles, it is probably a good idea to have it checked out. Skin cancer and specifically, melanoma, is typically an area of the skin that appears different than the other moles on your body.

4) Perform a monthly self-skin exam. If you notice a mole that seems different, watch it closely for change or have it examined as soon as you can.

5) Ask your doctor to do a baseline skin cancer screening. It only takes a few minutes but could save your life. Catching a melanoma early is very important so that it doesn't have a chance to spread internally.

6) Check your birthday suit on your birthday! It is generally recommended to have a dermatologist perform a yearly skin cancer screening, but that depends on your risk factors as well as personal and family history.

In summary, it is important to get to know your moles so that you can recognize if they have changed. By following the ABCDE system, combined with careful evaluation by a dermatologist, melanomas can usually be caught early before they have a chance to spread.

FDA Advisors Disapproving Cosmetic Claims

With numerous products promising myriads of skincare benefits, it can be difficult to make a choice if you are planning to buy. Most products these days come with slogans and stickers claiming to reverse the ageing process or protect you from the sun. Do they actually work? FDA advisors do not think so, which is why they are exerting effort to make cosmetic brands remove their claims.

According to fda.gov, "Improperly labeled or deceptively packaged products are considered misbranded and subject to regulatory action. Under the FD&C Act, a cosmetic is considered misbranded if:

- Its labeling is false or misleading in any particular;

- Its label does not include all required information;

- The required information is not adequately prominent or conspicuous;

- Its container is so made, formed, or filled as to be misleading;

- It is a color additive, other than a hair dye, that does not conform to applicable regulations issued under section 721 of the FD&C Act; and

- Its packaging or labeling is in violation of an applicable regulation issued pursuant to section 3 or 4 of the Poison Prevention Packaging Act of 1970." (FD&C Act, sec. 602)

The FDA's legal authority over cosmetics differs from drugs, biologics, and medical devices.Still, it may administer their initiative against products or firms and individuals that do not comply to their guidelines. Because FDA does not approve cosmetic products does not mean they will not be intervening with distribution.

According to FDAImports.com LLC founder Benjamin England, it is illegal to state that a product has SPF, anti-aging or anti-wrinkle properties. This is why FDA advisors have announced that a major initiative will be taking place against cosmetic companies with product labels bearing these prohibited claims. The FDA has been issuing import alerts on these claims since 1988 for both US and non-US based companies.

As of April 2010, the FDA has added as many as 93 products and 4 businesses to the IA 66-38 or "Yellow List." The companies subjected to this import alert will be under exhaustive FDA surveillance and increased import field examinations. With the new initiative, all cosmetic companies will be able to sense the increased implementation on product claims and labeling compliance.

Recently, the FDA has been detaining more product shipments, increasing its reviews, and notifying industries and companies on the importance of complying with labeling requirements. Failure to conform will result in receiving FDA Warning Letters, alleging the products as misbranded articles or unapproved drugs. According to the FDA, one of their goals for this operation is to achieve uniformity during their enforcement practices, since it appears that they have been targeting smaller companies in the past.

Plastic Surgery - Technology That Can Help You Get The Look You Desire

Whether a person with small breasts wants bigger ones, an individual with a large nose wants a smaller one, or a person who has developed jowls wants them taken away in order to look ten years younger, plastic surgery has helped millions of individuals achieve a particular look they have wanted. This type of procedure can also reconstruct an area of the body that may be deformed or injured. If you are looking for a physical change through the help of a cosmetic or reconstructive surgical procedure, contact the offices of a reputable plastic surgeon and schedule a consultation.

If you are interested in a plastic surgery procedure on the face, choose a surgeon that has extensive knowledge and experience performing these types of procedures. You want a surgeon that possesses an artistic eye for detail so your look will not come out appearing "plastic" or "pulled too tight". In a procedure like a facelift, a great surgeon can enhance your beauty and add youthfulness to your face. Some practices utilize sophisticated computer imaging systems that can show you how you will look after a particular procedure and how it could benefit your overall appearance. Additional surgical procedures for the face include the eyelid lift, brow lift, rhinoplasty (nose job), and laser resurfacing.

One of the most popular plastic surgery procedures for the body is the tummy tuck. This procedure gives a person a sleeker abdominal area after removing unwanted fat from the mid-section that has not responded well to a normal diet and exercise. A tummy tuck involves the surgeon making an incision from hip to hip, and then removing excess skin and fat. Next, you surgeon will tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall. The last part of this procedure calls for the surgeon shifting down the remaining skin for a firmer, flatter stomach. Additional surgeries for the body include cellulite treatment, buttocks enhancement, butt lift, body lift, liposuction, and much more.

A popular plastic surgery procedure for the breasts is the breast augmentation procedure that provides a woman with fuller, well-proportioned breasts. This procedure is usually sought by women who are not satisfied with their small bust size or have one breast that is smaller than the other is. Additional surgical procedures for the breasts include male breast reduction, breast lift, breast reduction, breast reconstruction, and breast lift with implants. If you are interested in any of the above or additional plastic surgery procedures, contact the offices of a reputable surgical center and schedule a consultation.

Cosmetic Surgery - Benefits, Risks, and Limitations

Every day people look into the possibility of cosmetic surgery. Some are looking for a complete makeover when it comes to their appearance. Others are just looking to make minor improvements. Either way, there are certain benefits, risks, and limitations that a person should be aware of before making a commitment to any of the various procedures.

Benefits

There are several benefits to cosmetic surgery. The most obvious benefit is the ability to change appearance for the better. If an individual isn't happy with his or her tummy, breasts, or even eyes, something can be done to make an improvement. Along with these changes, patients often experience an increase in self-confidence. They are happier with their body and it shows in the way they present themselves.

In some situations, plastic surgery can benefit a person in the workplace. While only specific professions require that a person keep up a certain appearance, in general people that are happy with themselves bring that confidence to the workplace. Even relationships can benefit when one person feels better about his or her appearance.

Risks

One of the biggest risks to cosmetic surgery is the fact that there are no guarantees. A patient and surgeon can talk over the operation, come up with the ideal results, and work hard to make sure that everything goes well, but even with all of the extra effort, there are some people that are unhappy with the way the procedure turned out. Instead of adding self-confidence, things can take a turn for the worse.

Aside from appearance, there are medical risks involved in every cosmetic surgery. Scarring is always a possibility, incisions can become infected, and a person can have a negative reaction to any of the medications or tools used during the procedure. While the changes of something going wrong are slim, patients can increase their odds for a better experience by only working with a plastic surgeon that is licensed and certified, has the appropriate facility to perform the work, and has a reputation for taking care of patients.

Limitations

Cosmetic surgery is not the solution for every single issue that a person has with his or her body. There are limitations to what the operation can do. In some cases, it can make improvements to an area, but it may not be able to completely transform a person's entire figure. This is part of the reason that surgeons encourage their patients to reach a maintainable weight. As the body changes, the effects of the procedure will change as well. Liposuction may not be able to help a person drop several dress sizes. It is used to sculpt and reshape the body.

The Various Medical Industry Organization That Regulates The Cleaning Of Surgical Instruments

The medical industry has highly regulated the task of cleaning surgical instruments so as to protect the patients from ending up with any infections or diseases that can result by the use of contaminated tools. This is why the medical industry takes strict steps to ensure that the health care staff of any clinic or hospital is extremely vigilant towards the care and cleaning of its instruments. If you want to learn about the various regulations that exist, this article will help you gain some knowledge on this.

To begin with, the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instruments (AAMI) developed certain standards that are known as the 2006 ST - 79 standards which outline the rules to follow on sterilizing surgical instruments using steam. The document called AAMI ST - 81 sets the standards to follow when sterilizing reusable instruments. The document AAMI ST - 58 outlines the aspects to consider related to the subject of in - depth chemical disinfection.

The other organization that regulates the health industry by setting cleaning standards of surgical instruments is The Occupational Safety and Health Administration which is by the United States Department of Labor. This OSHA issued a document 29 CFR 1910.1030 sub part Z which outlines the specific precautions indented for the technical and cleaning staff of hospitals and clinics to ensure their protection from getting infected by surgical instruments that may carry diseases and infections. The OSHA gives strong rules and regulations governing the use of disposable gloves by doctors and patient handles when they are dealing with infected material. The OSHA also has set rules that proper training must be given on a yearly basis to the medical staff to keep them updated on the rules and regulations governing the proper disposal of contaminated waste.

The Association of Operating Room Nurses (AORN) is a body that looks after the health of both patients and nurses by stressing on cleaning and storing cycles of surgical instruments. The AORN has issued a document that gives thorough instructions on how to conduct the complete cleaning, sterilizing, and then transporting cycle for instruments to ensure that they are well looked after and properly cleaned. This is to avoid nurses from totally relying on sterilization to let that do the work. This document continuously stresses on the importance of this cycle to ensure that the patients are always safe from risks of possible contamination.

All these organization are regularly and actively looking into the various products and cleaning cycles being adopted in various hospitals and clinics. They are continuously researching and investigating increasingly efficient ways of conducting this whole process with minimum amount of risk and maximum results. This is why the medical industry is also equipped with proper cleaning solutions and machines for the cleaning of surgical instruments to make sure that doctors have the right cleaning equipment with them so that they can conduct the tasks the right way. Cleaning processes involve cleaning with an ultrasonic machine using special ultrasonic solution and then cleaning manually.

8 Secrets on How to Remove Acne Scars

There are several ways on removing acne scars. The appearance of acne starts during puberty when the body actively produces hormones that causes too much sebum in the skin. This skin stage may pass but it would definitely leave marks to haunt your appearance forever. Treating acne scars can be done through natural inexpensive ways and dermatological procedures that would probably cost a lot. However, acne scar treatment still depends on the mildness and severity of the scar.

Below are some of the techniques on removing acne scars naturally:

1. Hydration is the key. It has been proven that water is one of the best natural methods to remove acne scars and prevent acne breakouts. Drinking at least 8 glasses of water or more helps your skin to shed those unwanted dead skin cells.

2. A lot of people are recommending the use Vitamin E capsule for those scars. You might apply it topically to the affected area by pricking a spot in the capsule and apply the oil to the scar. Another option is to take it orally to have that cell renewal from the inside.

3. Rosehip seed oil is also an effective remedy on removing acne scars. This is an anti-ageing and anti-wrinkling agent that helps the skin to regenerate. Massage it on the scar twice a day.

4. Eating a balance diet may help in removing acne scars. The more nutritious foods you include in your meal, the faster the scar will heal. It helps in building the skin cells and gives a healthy skin glow as well.

5. Combine rose water and paste of sandal wood and apply it on the spot where the scars are. Leave it overnight then rinse with cold water the next day.

Aside from the natural ways of removing acne scars, there are also dermatological procedures that would definitely give you a much faster result. However, pregnancy and other health conditions may hinder your want to undergo these procedures. Here are some of the hi-tech methods can remove acne scars effectively.

6. Nowadays, not only certified dermatologists do a dermabrasion but facial salons as well. Dermabrasion is the removal of the top skin layer using a machine that chafes off the skin. Once the skin heals, the top layer will then have a smoother and clearer appearance.

7. Laser resurfacing is one of the most affordable anti-scar treatments available. It simply uses a high-energy light that would remove the fine scars and even prevent wrinkles.

8. You may also have a chemical peel procedure. This is just like dermabrasion. The only difference is that the top layer of the skin is peeled off using chemicals not machines. This is not a very advisable procedure for all since some people may have allergic reactions to the chemicals.

With all the available choices for treatment, you surely would not have an excuse as to why your acne scar is still obvious. It's your choice whether you would opt for the natural way or the dermatological procedure on how to remove acne scars.

The Risks and Rewards of Plastic Surgery

For many individuals, there is a significant benefit to having plastic surgery. With the vast number of procedures available and advanced technology by your side, it is very possible for you to get rid of problem areas and enhance your look. For many people, these procedures are very safe and can provide the lasting change that they desire. Yet, there are risks to take into consideration, too. Before you make the decision to have a procedure like this, ensure it is the right one for your needs.

Know the Risks

Every type of plastic surgery comes with some risks. Most of the time, these are minimal and the rewards outweigh them considerably. One of the largest risks of any surgical procedure is the risk of infection. If infection does happen, it can lead to complex health concerns. However, choosing the right facility will make a big difference here. There are other risks, too, including excessive bleeding, blood clots, tissue death, loss of sensation, delayed healing, and paralysis in some severe cases. Talk to your doctor about these risks and any others you may experience before having this procedure.

The Potential Rewards

There are many rewards as a result of plastic surgery. These rewards will differ from one person to the next and from one type of procedure to the next. However, most people do see a significant improvement in the way they look.

There are psychological benefits. Having a successful procedure can boost your self-esteem and help to give you the confidence you need. This can often improve many aspects of your life, too. For those who suffer from anxiety due to their current look, these procedures can be an ideal boost.

Professional benefits are also possible. In some situations, discrimination is a big problem. In other cases, individuals who have these procedures are more positive and motivated to live their lives afterwards and simply perform better on the job. This can offer lasting benefits.

Those who are socially withdrawn or those who feel uncomfortable in their skin also benefit from these surgical procedures. They see lasting improvement in their ability to feel confident about their looks. This has lasting benefits on their social lives.

If you are considering plastic surgery, talk to your doctor about what you can expect before, during, and after the procedure. By understanding the risks and coming to grips with them, you may be able to see the numerous rewards you will experience as well. Do not overlook the benefit of having these procedures and being able to feel more confident.

When Is the Best Time to Have Cosmetic Surgery?

However long you have thought about having cosmetic surgery, it's likely you've given more consideration to what procedure to have rather than when to schedule the operation. If you are concerned with looking younger or improving certain physical attributes, you probably want to have the surgery as soon as possible, or as soon as you can afford it. It may surprise you to know, however, that certain times of the year are more conducive to having cosmetic surgery than others.

When you speak with a qualified plastic surgeon about the operation you want - be it liposuction or a face lift - you will be advised of certain things that must be taken care of before you have your procedure. Are you required to lose weight first? Is your surgery connected to a certain event, like a reunion or wedding? Here are some things to consider:

The Summer Body: Summer brings days at the beach and, ultimately, days in a bathing suit in public. If you want to show off a stellar bod in a bikini, you should know that breast implants may take anywhere from three to six months to settle post-operation and look more natural. Such a procedure should be planned in the winter if you intend to sun on the French Riviera, or your own backyard.

The Fresh Face: If you want to meet up with old friends at your 25th high school reunion, it is not wise to ask for the face lift or nose job two weeks before the event. Depending on the surgery, you will need those two weeks to recover. For any procedure timed for a reunion, wedding, or other important occasion, have the operation several months beforehand. You wouldn't run right out to the ski slopes a week after having a cast come off, would you? Your body needs time to heal.

For any type of surgery, even something as simple as a Botox injection, you want to give yourself time to let the surgery heal completely. Don't make plans to jet off somewhere a few days after leaving the hospital or clinic, because if something goes wrong you want to have your surgeon close by to handle the situation. The keyword here is "surgery," and even if you are very healthy you will need to rest afterward.

Cosmetic procedures can help you reclaim your youth and your confidence. As you consider how you wish to improve the way you look, take care to make the proper preparations. In time, when you have healed, you'll see it was well worth it.

How to Book Treatments at the Best Clinics in Town and Get Fantastic Discounts

It is true that dental treatments are considered to be some of the most expensive medical procedures that you might undergo. This is one of the main reasons that a large number of people are sceptical about going for cosmetic teeth whitening procedures.

Do they really work? Are they worth the cash? Will they last long enough? These are some of the most commonly asked questions when the discussion turns to procedures that promise dazzling white teeth that uplift the personality with a single smile.

If you are looking for safe yet affordable options to spruce up your smile anew and become an instant head turner, it is time you narrow down your search to the web. Following are some helpful tips that can help you search for the best clinics in your area, both in terms of quality and budget:

• Check for resources and websites that enlist major dental clinics and the services they provide, along with reliable customer feedbacks and reviews. While browsing these websites for a good dental clinic in your town, you can be sure of honest and straightforward reviews and feedback for your chosen clinic.

• Dental websites that have customer reviews posted under each different procedure and treatment can let you make the right choice to light up your smile. You can also find the pros and cons of different surgical treatments and procedures through the reviews.

• There are many websites that offer discount coupons and attractive offers to customers. You can book your appointments to some of the best clinics near you and get entitled for mega discounts and bonuses. Searching for the best dental clinic can assist you in getting a good package which will guarantee - the most dazzling smile, the most amazing rates and the most brilliant discounts, all under one roof!

• Many of the websites which offer these options for dental procedures are completely free of cost, so you need not worry about spending money before selecting the treatment and clinic. Just browse through the reviews, select the one that fulfils all your requirements and then visit the clinic to observe the difference! Don't forget to come back and post your own review on the quality of services that you experience during your treatment. Your feedback is highly valuable!

Whether you are looking for a specific cosmetic treatment or wish to know what would work best for you, doing an online search lines up all the options for you. You can bid a permanent goodbye to all your dental woes once you choose a reliable dental clinic for the best teeth whitening treatments. Be it yellowing teeth, coffee stains or plaque build-up, reinvent and rediscover your smile and get rid of all that is holding you back from a confident and sparkling smile!

Cosmetic Dentistry Facts

What is Cosmetic Dentistry?

If you've been finding that your smile lacks the kind of brightness and quality that you really want, you've probably come across the field of cosmetic dentistry in your search for perfection.  Well what is cosmetic dentistry?  The answer is pretty simple.  It's a mix of cosmetic gum re contouring and tooth enhancement, specifically developed to address the concerns of people unhappy with their smiles.

There are four main groups of cosmetic dental procedures. Whitening focuses on improving the color of your teeth.  Bonding involves filling in minor chips and gaps. Veneers focus on changing the shape and appearance of your front teeth. And finally orthodontics can be used in conjunction with any of these procedures to first properly position the teeth.

Whitening

As we age our teeth naturally lose their white color.  Habits like drinking coffee and smoking cigarettes can make things worse by staining the teeth.  This can be reversed by a process known as whitening. (sometimes referred to as "bleaching"). It normally involves the application of a peroxide based gel or liquid to the surface of the teeth. The time involved depends on the strength and composition of the solution. Less intense whitening agents are available over the counter, the stronger more intense are only available through a dentist.

Bonding

Bonding is a quick and usually simple method of filling in minor chips and breaks in front teeth. A plastic like material known as composite resin can be chemically adhered or "bonded" to your teeth. Numerous shades are available so as to blend in with your natural tooth color. This resin in strong and durable but will discolor and need replacement in time.

Porcelain Veneers

A porcelain veneer effectively hides the tooth defects of your front teeth with a thin shell of porcelain adhered to the surface.  They can be used to cover up stains and chips, along with hiding spaces and gaps that may be present between your teeth. They can also be used to add length and more prominence to your natural teeth. They offer the most dramatic and longest lasting effect of any cosmetic dental procedure.

Cosmetic dentistry is more popular now than ever before partly due to the many exciting advances like the ones used by Designer Dental Group. In addition more and more celebrities and TV personalities are sporting those perfect pearly whites. As people just like you begin having their smiles made over, the idea of perfect teeth is quickly becoming the norm. Cosmetic dentistry is safe, effective, and painless. 

Skin Problems and Cosmetic Dermatologists

We have been born and brought up in a place where beauty, charisma and escapade sare the essence of life. 'A thing of beauty is a joy forever' is a quote which is true to its core. Our over protectiveness of outer beauty makes us stumble upon cosmetic dermatology and other such 'unheard-of' things. The word cosmetic dermatology essentially refers to an arena of medical science that deals with skin problems, diseases, cures, abnormalities, preventive medication etc.

Cosmetic dermatologists are the persons who practice cosmetic dermatology. They are known to have all-embracing know how and expertise on typical skin problems and their respective cures. A skin problem may come in any facades such as acne, pimples, scars, sunburn, blackheads, poison ivy, wrinkles, dry skin, sagging skin etc. They not only harm the skin but also make the skin look older and aged. Cosmetic dermatologists are counseled for apt medication or treatment.

The wide variety of drugs and cosmetic products available in the market are too risky to be taken without the supervision of a G.P (General Practitioner) or a Cosmetic dermatologist. The Cosmetic dermatologists can effectively recognize the root reason of the skin problem and can prescribe apt medication. They are competent of performing undemanding and most modern healing such as skin peeling for acne preclusion and the utilization of laser technology for wrinkle cure, aging remedies and much other cure form.

Skin problems such as acne, pimples, wrinkles and blackheads are generally caused due to hormonal imbalances and are increasingly seen in teenagers. But these can also be caused by excessive stress and strain in adults. People should comprehend that these are natural and should be treated well in advance as a majority of the folks shy away from visiting cosmetic dermatologists. One should never dampen his/ her enthusiasm on seeing these problems.

The culprit behind skin problems is not alone 'hormonal imbalance' as erroneous nutritional habits, contamination, lack of nourishment, alcohol drinking, anxiety, smoking, stress & a very demanding lifestyle also have a role to play in it. You should evaluate every fa癟ade of your lifestyle like eating habits, lack of exercise, lack of fluids, excessive smoking or drinking.

Consulting dermatologists at least once a year is highly advisable. It is also imperative to remain happy from within as the face is just a reflection of our inner being. Thus a happy person rarely meets skin problems in its way.

Disfigurement And Corrective Cosmetic Surgery Facial Disfigurement

Giving Hope to Special Children

Cosmetic surgeons face a lot of criticism in today's society. They are accused of perpetuating the notion the perfection isn't nearly perfect enough and that there is always room for improvement. These notions add undo stress to modern society's teen and young adults as they pressure themselves and reject their own bodies in the never ending pursuit of the perfect body and face.

However, people who are quick to criticize have a narrow view of what cosmetic surgeons offer the public. While most people visit cosmetic surgeons to adjust their body or face toward a more aesthetically pleasing manner, a great number of people visit cosmetic surgeons to correct serious issues that literally prevent them from having a fair shot in life.

People with significant disfigurements are less likely to truly find ultimate success simply because they are judged unfairly. Facial disfigurements are the most difficult to overcome. People without disfigurements are quick to judge those who have them, and it can be a very cruel world. Often an unreasonable assumption is made that a disfigurement is the equivalent of low intelligence. It can be remarkably difficult for people with facial disfigurements to advance in careers or even be eligible for promotions. As wrong as society is ready to admit this unfair treatment may be, there certainly isn't much being done to correct the situation and few education programs reaching out to young people to change the thought paradigm over time.

Children with facial disfigurements are hit especially hard. Their peers can be brutally honest, and even when there is no mal-intent the harsh understanding of being different is ever present. Children with facial disfigurements tend to develop of safe world inside their own minds, one where everybody looks like them or there is a magic fairy who is able to fix the problem with a simple wave of her magic wand. In all their fantasy, children with facial disfigurements tend to forget that they are not to blame for the situation and can often feel as though they caused the problem through a bad behavior even if they were born with the disfigurement.

Disfigurements occur in children either through disease, accident, or birth defect. To a child, the source of the disfigurement is completely inconsequential. The results are paramount, however. They can have such devastating effects on a child's life that seven out of ten children with disfigurements have either wished for death or contemplated suicide.

Unfortunately, not all children with disfigurements can benefit from reconstructive cosmetic surgery. The nature of the disfigurement and the surrounding tissue all play a huge role in how reconstructive cosmetic surgery may or may not help a child inflicted with disfigurement. The fact that children are still growing can offset the chances of receiving cosmetic surgical assistance.

Children with facial disfigurements due to an accident are more likely to be able to be helped through reconstructive cosmetic surgery. Facial wounds are one of the easiest disfigurements to correct. Wounds from dog bites, car accidents, and even burns often stand a good chance of either significantly reducing or eliminating the disfigurement altogether. Children who have had to have facial bones removed due to disease can often be helped, although they tend to require more than just reconstructive cosmetic surgery.

In the past ten years medical advancements in cosmetic reconstructive surgery have increased the field's ability to help more children afflicted with a wider variety of facial disfigurements. Moderate to severe burns were once untouchable, and while cosmetic reconstructive surgery still can not fix a great amount of the effects of burns there is hope for facial burns below the eyes.

Finding Reconstructive Surgical Help

With the known devastating effects of facial disfigurement in children, it would be reasonable to believe that insurance companies would willingly pay for the procedures that can help alleviate the facial disfigurements in children. This notion is unfortunately a fallacy. Most insurance companies consider the vast majority of these procedures to be an elective procedure and cover very little if any of the cost.

Families are then faced with very difficult financial decisions. Naturally any parent wants to wipe away the agony and suffering of their child. Finding the necessary resources to pay for such procedures can be insurmountable, especially in families where other medical expenses were incurred either to treat a disease or accident related expenses.

Considering that cosmetic surgeons are typically paid up front and in cash or check form there would be more compassion on the surgeons' end to fix these children free of charge when the insurance won't cover it and there are no resources to offset the cost. Again, reconstructive cosmetic surgeons find themselves under fire for their decisions to charge these families for their services.

It should be understood that many reconstructive cosmetic surgeons actually do quite a bit of pro bono work for children with facial disfigurements. They receive very little press for doing so but will receive ample press should they choose to turn a child away.

Regardless of popular opinion and personal thoughts about the cosmetic surgery industry, it is unreasonable to hold anyone accountable for not doing their job for free as often as someone else deems appropriate. There are a frighteningly large amount of children needing free or low cost help. A single surgeon could accept enough pro bono work to keep him busy for a year and he would barely make a dent in the problem. It is unreasonable for the public to decide how much anyone performs their job for free. We don't demand that construction workers fix our roads for free, even when they have fixed the same road three times. We can not demand different from cosmetic surgeons just because not everyone agrees with their line of work.

When a cosmetic surgeon agrees to pro bono cosmetic surgery, they are not only agreeing that they will give up their fee. They are agreeing that anyone involved with the surgery will give up their right to be paid. This includes anesthesiologists, operating room nurses, and sometimes recovery nurses. Depending on the procedure, this may require another specialist to perform a specialty surgery for free as well.

Pro bono cosmetic surgery is an amazing gift. And that is exactly what it is, a gift. Often a procedure may require more than just one surgery, and the surgeon and his team are committed to continue treatment for free. Complications may require an emergency surgical procedure, and once again the cosmetic surgery is performed pro bono. There are numerous factors that play into a surgeon's willingness to perform pro bono cosmetic surgery. It would be fair to receive all the information prior to deciding that this "vanity profession" is only out to serve itself.

Donation Funds for Children with Facial Disfigurements

Nobody likes to ask for money because they can't afford to take care of their child's needs. However, in situations where the cost is prohibitive but the benefit is life changing, it is a gift to the general public to be able to help positively effect a life. Most people will willingly give their spare change, checks, cash, and even services to help change the life of a child with a facial disfigurement.

Creating a fund for children with facial disfigurements and actively participating in fundraisers can make a significant difference in attaining the assistance needed to correct the problem. While surgeons are hesitant to do pro bono work, they are more willing to make compromises with payment plans and reduced fees to allow families the benefit of reconstructive cosmetic surgery for a reasonable cost.

These special funds are easy to create and any bank teller can help set one up. Most convenience stores and pharmacies and other establishments will allow charity cans to be placed in a highly visible locations. Contacting a fundraising specialist can put a family on the right path to discover the ease of obtaining at least one quarter of the funds needed, which makes a surgeon more likely to put a child on the schedule to fix a facial disfigurement.

Nobody wants to see a child suffer with the complications from a facial disfigurement. There is hope out there and a surprising number of resources to help guide a family in the right direction in finding the help that is appropriate for them. The very formation of the cosmetic surgical industry was designed to help people who looked different attain a more suitable look. The cosmetic surgery industry has not lost touch with its roots.

For help in finding a surgeon, understanding various surgical procedures, or to learn more about cosmetic surgery, visit lifeplasticsurgery. Here you will find ample resources regardless of your reason for choosing plastic surgery. Cosmetic surgery is a complicated field whether you are looking to enhance an already beautiful face, restore the body, or help a child with a facial disfigurement. Learning all you can about the basic first steps is a critical and worthwhile endeavor.

Good and Bad Candidates For Plastic Surgery

Plastic surgery is a tool many people use to improve their body image. However, not all people are good candidates for cosmetic surgery. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons recognizes this and cautions surgeons from taking on certain types of patients. That being said, some people can benefit greatly from cosmetic surgery, provided they have realistic expectations and a good understanding of their motivation.

Who Are Bad Candidates for Cosmetic Surgery?

So who does the American Society of Plastic Surgeons say is a bad candidate for cosmetic surgery? First, the Society cautions surgeons against performing surgery on patients with unrealistic expectations about the procedure's results. Patients need to know what to expect after a procedure, and their view of "perfection"is likely not going to be the result.

Also, patients who are suffering from a severe crisis or trauma in their lives should wait to have surgery. A divorce or serious financial crisis can sometimes make people start seeking a way to change their outer image in an attempt to deal with the inner turmoil they are experiencing. Working through the crisis first is essential. If, afterwards, the patient still feels surgery would be a benefit, then options can be pursued.

Doctors are cautioned against performing surgery on people who are seeking perfection. These patients notice every possible flaw on their bodies and want it fixed. Often, they are unhappy with their results and seek another physician's opinion or another surgery to fix the first one. These are poor candidates for cosmetic procedures, because there is often an underlying problem causing the individual to continue to seek surgical treatment.

Many people suffer from body image complexes, thinking that they look far worse than they really do. Some turn to cosmetic surgery in an attempt to fix these perceived flaws. People with a severe body image complex, a condition known as Body Dysmorphic Disorder, should not look to cosmetic surgery to fix their perceived flaws. This is a serious psychological condition that needs counseling, not surgery, to fix.

Good Candidates for Cosmetic Surgery

While many people seek cosmetic surgery as a "fix"for problems it was not designed to fix, there are some patients who stand to benefit greatly from a cosmetic procedure. There are also those patients who have realistic expectations about a procedure and can enjoy a better body image after surgery without the psychological problems others experience.

People who are good candidates for plastic surgery are those who understand what the risks and the possible outcomes are. They are not obsessed with achieving "perfection,"but perhaps have a flaw or two that they would like to improve. They understand that they are going to still look like themselves, with slight improvement, after the procedure.

Cosmetic surgery is also a great option for people with birth defects, such as a cleft palate. There are also many procedures that can be done to improve the appearance of scars after an accident or fire. A skilled plastic surgeon can reconstruct an appearance lost after a traumatic event, thus allowing the patient to return to a fairly normal appearance. People in these situations are good candidates for cosmetic surgery.

There are also some lifestyle and physical features that how whether or not someone is a good candidate for cosmetic surgery. People who are at a healthy weight, exercise regularly, and do not smoke are good candidates. It is very important for a patient to be emotionally stable, and the patient must be able to accept the risks and potential disadvantages of having a cosmetic procedure done.

If you feel like you are a good candidate for cosmetic surgery, have weighed the risks, and still wish to have a procedure done, look around carefully for the right doctor. Once you have found one, set up some support to lean on after the procedure while you heal. Cosmetic surgery is major surgery, no matter how low risk it is, so make sure you have the help you need in place prior to the surgery.

Reconstructive Plastic Surgery After an Accident

While many people associate plastic surgery with movie stars and other celebrities, this can actually be a very beneficial process for someone who has suffered an accident. Tragedies such as fires, car accidents, and even simple slips and falls can leave you with devastating injuries that may not heal normally. In these cases, reconstructive plastic surgery may be able to help you regain your former appearance.

After a catastrophic accident, it is natural for your skin to heal by scarring. However, some scars may cover large amounts of your body, or they may be red and swollen. Many times, burn scars do not produce enough skin for your affected body part to regain its flexibility. In cases like this, a reconstructive plastic surgeon can help you with skin grafts, tissue expansion, and other techniques to help you. Additionally, sometimes smaller scars can be reduced by a plastic surgeon who can delicately cut away the older tissue and redo the previous incision.

Also, blunt force trauma can leave you with a misshapen face. This is especially prevalent in car accidents for people who hit their faces on the dashboard or against the windshield. These accidents can cause severely broken noses and deep cuts that require the attention of a reconstructive plastic surgeon. The surgeon can basically build you a new nose since it is sometimes impossible for the cartilage to repair itself. Additionally, plastic surgeons are often called in for stitching lips back together because they are better able to keep the tissue correctly aligned while repairing it.

Reconstructive plastic surgeons also have the ability to help you with appendage replacement. For instance, if you lose your thumb in a work-related accident, you can lose the ability to perform many different tasks, even some as simple as tying your shoes. In several cases, surgeons have removed the big toe and used it as a thumb replacement. Reconstructive surgeons can also help you repair and smooth areas that have been lost in accidents so that you can better fit a prosthetic device.

After an accident, you can face years of treatment and surgery to fully recover from your trauma, including reconstructive plastic surgery. However, if the accident is the result of another person's negligence, you should not have to face these extra costs without financial compensation from the party at fault.

If you have been injured due to another's carelessness or recklessness, you should fight back. Contact an experienced Sheboygan personal injury lawyer from Habush Habush & Rottier, S.C., today to discuss your case.

Cosmetic Surgeon - Learn the Financial Aspects to Consider

If you plan to get plastic surgery soon, you will need to think about the financial side of the operation. The cosmetic surgeon you choose can have a lot to do with how much you end up paying. Learn what to find out so you get the best price possible.

You should first consider whether your insurance provider will cover the cost. If the surgery is medically necessary, you can get the operation paid for. Some examples of surgeries that are often medically necessary include blepharoplasty, breast reduction, and breast reconstruction. If you suspect that your operation will be paid for, contact your insurance provider to talk about what kind of supporting evidence you need. Then you need to find a cosmetic surgeon who accepts the insurance you have. You do not want to research someone, meet with them, and schedule the surgery, only to discover that he or she does not contract with your provider. Avoid wasting your time or money by doing this research before you even look for a doctor.

If you will end up footing the bill, your next step is to find a cosmetic surgeon who offers good prices. Of course, you do not always want to choose the one with the rock-bottom prices, as this could indicate that he or she does not have many patients due to a low amount of experience or education. In addition, some doctors claim to have the lowest prices around, but they include very little, so you end up having to pay extra for every little necessity. This is why you should talk to at least three or four doctors in your area to find out prices. Make sure you find out what each price includes, and also get to know the reputation, experience, and background of each doctor.

Once you have selected a cosmetic surgeon with a lot of experience and reasonable prices, consider what kind of financial help is available. If you have the money in cash, you can probably skip this step since every doctor accepts this method of payment. If you plan to write a check or use a credit card, find out if your physician takes these forms of payment, though you will find that the vast majority do. However, if you do not have the money right now, look for a practitioner who offers payment plans. You can often split up payments over a few years, usually with no interest added, which can help you afford to get surgery soon.

Once you are aware of the financial details of the medical office you have chosen, you can stop worrying about the money and start focusing on the actual procedure. This is why you are advised to do all this research early on, before even choosing a practitioner.

Best Treatment For Stretch Marks - Tips to Cure Stretch Marks & Age Spots Naturally

Normal human skin has 80% collagen and 4% elastin. Stretch marks are caused due to damage in our elastin fibers. Rapid stretching of our skin causes this problem that can be easily treated as well as prevented. Best treatment for stretch marks include creams however one should be careful before choosing the right cream for treating his or her skin. It is always advisable to check the ingredients in an ointment for avoiding side effects. Natural constituents can heal your complexion effectively.

There are four main factors for the formation of stretch marks. They are:

* Pregnancy
* Weight gain/weight loss
* Bodybuilding
* Puberty

Tips To Cure Stretch Marks & Age Spots Naturally

* Stretch marks and age spots are common dermatological problems that can be treated by exfoliating your skin at least once in a week. Exfoliation helps in removing the dead cells.

* You should drink plenty of water for keeping your skin hydrated. One should at least drink 10-12 glasses of water daily. You should also have balanced diet for flushing out toxins from your body that consequently enhances your skin metabolism. You should include food rich in zinc, vitamin A & C and protein. One should completely avoid junk foods and smoking for eliminating these scars quickly.

* Applying creams and lotions containing natural ingredients such as Shea butter, Sweet almond oil, aloe vera, emblica fruit extract, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 and Phyllanthus emblica fruit extract can moisturize as well as heal your skin with flamboyance. These ingredients stimulate the production of collagen in our body that consequently helps in repairing the damaged cells.

Captiva is a stretch mark cream that contains all the above ingredients. This ointment contains a unique blend of peptides that can easily treat, rejuvenate and heal your skin.

Reasons Why People Get Plastic Surgery

The number of plastic surgery procedures performed in the U.S. continues to rise each year. From breast lifts and augmentations to tummy tucks and liposuction, more and more men and women are turning to plastic surgeons for help with their physical appearance. But why? There are several factors that contribute to a person's decision to get plastic surgery. Following are some of the top reasons why the plastic surgery industry continues to grow in popularity among Americans:

Enhances Physical Appearance

One of the main reasons people decide to get plastic surgery is to enhance their physical appearance. Every person has that one body part that they grow up feeling insecure about. For some it may be an oversized nose and for others it may be disproportionate breast size or shape. Whatever it may be, it will nag at them, pull at them, and make them feel insecure, embarrassed and in some cases ashamed. However, with the advances in today's plastic surgery industry, people can, and do, turn to their plastic surgeons for help with their insecurities and problem areas.

Restores a Youthful Appearance

As we get older our bodies begin to change. Our faces begin to sag, droop and wrinkle, our hands become leathery from years of sun exposure and our skin, overall, loosens and starts to sag. Plastic surgery is a growing defense against signs of aging as more and more people turn to their plastic surgeons to restore their youthful appearance. There are several types of cosmetic procedures designed specifically to fight the signs of aging; from non-surgical procedures such as Botox (R) and Thermage to surgical procedures including eyebrow lifts and facelifts.

Boosts Self Esteem, Enhances Quality of Life

The way people feel about themselves has a lot to do with their own self image. For some people plastic surgery is a blessing and can give them the confidence they need to truly enjoy life. Someone who is not confident or is embarrassed by their appearance may shy away from certain social events and miss out on important life experiences. Studies have shown that most people, both men and women, experience a drastic boost in their self esteem and an enhanced quality of life immediately following recovery from cosmetic procedures.

Restores Pre-Baby Figure

Each year more and more women are getting plastic surgery to restore their pre-baby figures. Although giving birth is one of nature's most beautiful gifts, it does take its toll on the female body. In an effort to restore their self esteem and confidence, more and more women are undergoing cosmetic procedures, including tummy tucks and breast lifts. In fact, most plastic surgeons offer what they call "Mommy Makeovers" which include a series of cosmetic procedures designed to give mothers their bodies and confidence back.

Reconstructive Surgery

Reconstructive surgery is designed to surgically repair physical deformities caused by traumatic injuries such as burn injuries or dog bites, birth defects such as cleft lips or palates and physical abnormalities caused by medical conditions such as breast cancer.

Boosts Self Esteem, Enhances Quality of Life

The way people feel about themselves has a lot to do with their own self image. For some people plastic surgery is a blessing and can give them the confidence they need to truly enjoy life. Someone who is not confident or is embarrassed by their appearance may shy away from certain social events and miss out on important life experiences. Studies have shown that most people, both men and women, experience a drastic boost in their self esteem and an enhanced quality of life immediately following recovery from cosmetic procedures.

Restores Pre-Baby Figure

Each year more and more women are getting plastic surgery to restore their pre-baby figures. Although giving birth is one of nature's most beautiful gifts, it does take its toll on the female body. In an effort to restore their self esteem and confidence, more and more women are undergoing cosmetic procedures, including tummy tucks and breast lifts. In fact, most plastic surgeons offer what they call "Mommy Makeovers" which include a series of cosmetic procedures designed to give mothers their bodies and confidence back.

Reconstructive Surgery

Reconstructive surgery is designed to surgically repair physical deformities caused by traumatic injuries such as burn injuries or dog bites, birth defects such as cleft lips or palates and physical abnormalities caused by medical conditions such as breast cancer.

Plastic Surgery in the 21st Century

It is fair to say that at the beginning of the millennium we are truly a society concerned with outward appearances. We can see the development of this trend everywhere: from Television advertising to the proliferation of cosmetic surgery procedures. In short, in order to feel good, the majority of people need to look good. Now, this does not necessarily mean that to feel good you have to be good looking; rather it means that whatever you look like you take care of your appearance. People in today's society respect those of us who like to make an effort with our looks.

There are a range of cosmetic surgeries that people undertake to make themselves feel good about their appearance. Many of these procedures are relatively un-intrusive, and consequently, common: for example, Botox or facial fillers. These procedures can be carried out within a few minutes and are relatively cheap. They are also widely available; you can walk down any high street in the country and find some type of cosmetic beauty salon. Cosmetic surgery Preston is equally as common as cosmetic surgeries in London. There is no north/south divide when it comes to looking good.

Clearly, though, when choosing a cosmetic surgeon in your area, you need to make sure that you are in good hands. Many of procedures carry some risks, even those that are generally considered as safe. For example, Botox injections need to be administered carefully, or the needle may hit a facial nerve, the result of which can be permanent paralysis. For this reason, then, you must make sure that your chosen surgeon is regulated by the necessary authorities. In the UK, these authorities include The Department of Health, BAPRAS (British Association of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons), BAAPS (British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons) and the Royal College of Surgeons Edinburgh. As long as you select a plastic surgeon that is regulated by one or more of these authorities, then you are sure to be in safe hands.

The surgeon you choose must have steady hands, too. Surgeons in general, regardless of the area in which they concentrate their services, are renowned amongst the medical world for their nerves of steel. This is essential because a slip here or a mishap there, can lead to completely different results to what was expected.

The following procedures are some of the more popular at present:

Blepharoplasty: this is a procedure where eye bags are removed. Some people tend to have heavier bags than others, and this may lead to a slightly closed eyed look. With blepharoplasty a more open-eyed look is achieved, so as you can imagine, this is a very popular procedure.

Face and Neck lifts: as we age, certain parts of the body begin to sag. With a strong emphasis on youthful looks within our society, it is unsurprising to learn that any procedure which tightens loose skin is very popular - particularly around the face.

Teen Cosmetic Surgery

Cosmetic surgery is a very popular procedure in today's day and age. Although it is most common amongst middle aged and older individuals, many young people are also dissatisfied with some parts of their body. The fact is a great number of teenagers are eager to change their body image. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, in 2003 more than 223,000 cosmetic procedures, such as nose reshaping, breast lifts, breast augmentation, Liposuction, and tummy tucks were performed on patients 18 years of age or younger. That being said, teen cosmetic surgery is definitely on the rise in the United States.

Why Do Teenagers Get Cosmetic Surgery?
There are several reasons why teenagers consider cosmetic surgery, the main one being the desire to change some part of their body they are not comfortable with. Another reason is that they are unhappy with their body image. Because our society places a great amount of importance on physical attractiveness, many teenagers feel the need to look slim, handsome or beautiful. Some teenagers feel the need to look like a certain actress or actor in order to attain a successful life and career. The underlying conviction is that teen cosmetic surgery offers an increased sense of worth and fosters self-esteem. In some countries such as Brazil, teen cosmetic surgery is a fairly common occurrence for many girls involved in beauty pageants. Some contestants will actually go through as many as twenty to thirty different types of cosmetic procedures because the judges of these contests are looking for perfection.

What Cosmetic Surgery is Popular with Teenagers?
There are numerous different types of cosmetic procedures, and many of them are embraced by teenagers. The following is a list of the most popular ones:

• Augmentation mammoplasty, which is the enlargement of breasts, is the most popular procedure


• Liposuction is also in great demand; it involves removing fat deposits from specific parts of the body


• Reduction mammoplasty is the decrease of breast size, and is less common amongst teensRhinoplasty consists of reshaping and reconstruction of the nose


• Otoplasty entails pinning back the ears in order to prevent them from sticking out


• Microdermabrasion is a common procedure that focuses on smoothing or hiding severe acne scars (approximately 53, 000 teenagers in the U.S.A. underwent this cosmetic procedure in 2002)


• A chemical peel, much like microdermabrasion, is a procedure that aims to improve the overall skin texture of the face by using a chemical solution (about 54, 000 teenagers in the U.S.A. had a chemical peel in 2002)


• Laser hair removal is a fashionable cosmetic procedure; it eliminates unwanted hair in various areas of the body such as the lips, chin, earlobe, shoulders, back, underarms, abdomen, buttocks, pubic area, thighs, face, neck, cleavage, chest, arms, legs, hands, and toes.


• Today, when teenagers do not like something about their bodies, there is a very good chance that something can be done about it. The cosmetic procedures mentioned above are merely the most common ones.

Is Teen Cosmetic Surgery a Good Idea?
Surgery is surgery, and there are various risks involved in all surgical procedures. It is important to understand the risks associated with teen cosmetic surgery prior to making a decision to go under the knife. Every individual's situation and makeup is unique, and should be examined and assessed accordingly.

It is recommended that teenagers discuss potential cosmetic surgery with their parents before consulting a doctor. A significant number of surgeons choose not to perform certain cosmetic procedures on anyone under the age of eighteen. They feel that young people's bodies are not yet fully developed, and their considerations are still emotionally immature; consequently, teenagers may be contemplating cosmetic surgery for less than valid reasons. Cosmetic surgery performed on teenagers may lead to negative side effects, and possible future complications. Ultimately, it is the surgeon's decision to make.

Nevertheless, many teenagers benefit from certain cosmetic procedures. In fact, teenage girls who have breast reduction are relieved from back pain and other unmanageable discomforts caused by exceptionally large breasts. In some cases, cosmetic surgery is the only solution to improve the health and well-being of certain individuals.

Cosmetic Surgery Loans Open Up The Opportunity to Rediscover Yourself

Each one of us wants to look "best". Different people use different techniques to look good; the most popular among them is cosmetic surgery. Cosmetic surgery can do tremendous change to one's personality. But, the huge cost involved in undertaking a cosmetic surgery must be stopping you from the change you have been long waiting for? Don't wait any longer; rediscover yourself with a cosmetic surgery loan.

It's in the very nature of human beings to keep on demanding more and more. Everyone is running in the race to look better than other. Looking more beautiful has always provoked both men and women. In the past, the word beauty was confined only to woman. But with the changing time man too have got conscious about their looks. They too want to look good and possess a perfect body. Cosmetic surgery can be a perfect solution for enhancing one's physical appearance.

Cosmetic surgery is often known as plastic surgery. Undertaking even a small cosmetic surgery involves good sum of money. It is not in the reach of common man and the worst part is that cosmetic surgery expenses are not even covered under health insurance scheme. Only rich people used to get it done. But, with the passage of time and introduction of cosmetic surgery loan has flourished an opportunity for the working class and income earners to get the funds to finance the expenses involved in getting a cosmetic surgery done.

Treatments covered under cosmetic surgery are liposuction, hair transplant skin resurfacing, forehead lift, abdominoplasty, breast augmentation, scar revision and many more.

With a cosmetic surgery loan, you can finance cosmetic surgery ranging from £1000 to £25,000 to meet the expenses involved in the cosmetic surgery. Usually the loan is granted for a period of 24 to 60 months depending on the purpose for which you are taking the loan.

Before you apply for the loan find out how much cost is involved in the cosmetic surgery you want to get done. A prior research will help you meet all the expenses with ease. Cost involved in getting a minor surgery is not much and can be easily met by unsecured cosmetic surgery loan. Tenants as well as homeowners can apply for an unsecured loan.

A secured cosmetic surgery loan is ideal if you plan to undergo a major cosmetic surgery. To avail a secured loan you need to put your property as collateral against the loan. Homeowners by putting their home as security can grab good sum of money to finance the expenses of cosmetic surgery.

The entry of online lenders in the finance market has overshadowed all the shortcomings that existed when only traditional lenders were there. Now, you can apply for a cosmetic surgery loan online and that too from your office or home. You just need to have a computer with Internet connection and a few clicks on the loan provider's websites and you are not too far away from getting the surgery done for yourself.

You just need to fill up the online application form that will hardly take few minutes out of your busy schedule. Make sure to collect as many loan quotes as you can which will help you find the loan deal, most of the lenders offer them free or for some nominal charges. Once you collect all the quotes compare them on the basis of loan term, repayment options and choose the one that suits your pocket to the best.

Increasing consciousness among man and woman regarding their looks has added to the popularity of cosmetic surgery loan. Now, with a cosmetic surgery done you too can look the way you dream. With a cosmetic surgery loan, change the way you look at life and the way people look at you.

Micro Mist Hair Treatment

Has your hair been damaged by sun, hair colouring, straightening or perming? As you probably already know most hair treatments don't solve this problem. Micro Mist hair is a treatment that uses the power of water to penetrate deep into the hair. It swells the hair and enhances any treatments that you have had.

The micro mist system comes to us from Japan and had been over a decade in the making. The treatment is locked into the hair. Convenient steamers boil water at 100 degrees to create steam. However the height of this temperature often causes more damage to the hair than it repairs. The micro mist system is different as it doesn't steam water; it uses ultra sound to generate mist and warms it in accordance to your hair type; keeping the temperature far below 100 degrees.

The micro mist treatment has six main functions:

o Hot wind - for warming up

o Hot fog - for helping hair absorb nutriments via utilizing the energy generated through cavitations effect.

o Cold fog - for helping the hair cortex absorb nutriments by adapting the quantum technique

o Ozone - for sterilizing and disinfecting

o Aromatic remedy - purifying the hair with water

A treatment using the micro mist system usually lasts just over six minutes, in which time you have several minutes of warmth then a shot of cold, which is used to close the hair cuticles. This is how the treatment is locked into the hair. You walk out of the salon with silky smooth hair that can last between 7 and 10 days and a few weeks.

Out of the six main functions of the micro mist system the three main ones that you need to know most about are the following:

Deep penetration of the hair

Heating activates the molecular movement of treatment agents and water in hair.
At the same time, heated micro mist swells the hair and enhances treatment agents permeate deep into each hair.

Setting in place

Cooled air sent from the fan draws vaporized heat and rapidly soothes the molecular movement that has been activated by heat energy. This action reinforces fixation of treatment agents to the inside of damaged hair.

All over effect

By circulating a large quantity of mist in the hood where the temperature is excellently controlled, the entire hair evenly receives heat energy. Each hair gets a treatment effect and retains moisture, resulting in healthy and youthful hair.

The Micro Mist system repairs and rejuvenates your hair, giving it strength, suppleness and a longer lasting shine.

If you are hoping to take advantage of the great benefits the micro mist system has to offer then get into with your salon today as this treatment is unique to salons and can't be done at home, unless you have over £2,000 spare that is! The micro mist system creates a smooth and relaxing sensation for the customer while at the same time provides effective treatment for dry and damaged hair. The micro mist system is said to be the most effective treatment for damaged hair so book your appointment today.

Cosmetic Procedures Accepted as A Social Need

According to British statistics, more than 100,000 cosmetic procedures are performed every year. Among these procedures we can find Botox injections for remove wrinkles as well as laser peels to improve the appearance of skin. Anti aging procedures such as facelifts, brow lifts and eyelid surgery become very popular due their acceptability.

As a very interesting fact, statistics mention a growing number of men taking the decision to go under cosmetic knife. From professional need to look pleasant to self-esteem reasons, men have finally received the societal permission to have cosmetic procedures. Men have the money and the desire to have a young appearance. Among male patients, rhinoplasty - the nose correction procedure - is the most popular cosmetic surgery.

The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, evaluates that in 2005 year more patients improved their quality of life and self-esteem through their looks using the right circumstance of aesthetic surgery. Experts explain this growing demand by the fact more and more people access information regarding what cosmetic surgery might achieve.

On the other hand, statistics shows a growing trend in demand of less-invasive procedures and often less costly than surgery, such as laser hair removal and anti-cellulite treatments.

The BAAPS points that whether looking to rejuvenate their appearance or go for a complete makeover, patients should find a well-reputable doctor who is qualified in the area they are asking cosmetic treatment.

Get Back Your Amazing Smile by Cosmetic Dentistry

Very few people are born with the perfect Hollywood smile; so the next best step is to achieve one with help from a Long Island cosmetic dentistry specialist. In fact, not even our celebrities are born with those amazing smiles. So, the most advanced and expensive dentistry procedures are employed to get the smile of their dreams. Here are the popular procedures that Long Island cosmetic dentists employ for a beautiful smile.

Famous Hollywood Smiles

Here are some famous Hollywood celebrities who have had cosmetic dentistry procedures to improve their smiles and give them the perfect dazzlers.

Miley Cyrus: Hannah Montana superstar, Miley Cyrus is popular among all age groups for her acting and singing talents. The star, who used to have misaligned teeth, has improved her smile using veneers. Besides, her gummy smile and her teeth that used to be a darker shade with slightly crooked canines are all a matter of the past.

Elliot Yamin: The American Idol star has invested quite a lot to get his snaggleteeth fixed. Veneers were used to cover up his smile, which, along with his songs, has given him a celebrity status.

Katherine Heigl: Heigl used to have crooked teeth. A few months prior to her wedding, she started using Invisalign dental braces. Everyone can see for themselves how good her straightened teeth look.

Keith Urban: He used to have a smile that would quite honestly scare people off, let alone sell out tours and multi-platinum albums. He got his teeth fixed using veneers. He chose to leave a signature gap in the front, to give a natural look to his smile.

Apart from these celebrities, other big names in Hollywood such as George Clooney, Gwen Stefani are also believed to have undergone cosmetic dental procedures to improve their smiles. If they can undergo cosmetic dental procedures to perfect their smiles, so can you.

How Long Island Cosmetic Dentistry Can Help You

Cosmetic dentists on Long Island employ a variety of dental procedures and materials to correct almost any kind of imperfection, ranging from simple teeth whitening to fixing a broken tooth. Some commonly used procedures include laser whitening, teeth bleaching, bonding, filling replacements, gum altering and porcelain veneers. Even receding gum can be treated through grafting to lend a more healthy appearance.

Cosmetic Surgery - Why Women Are Looking Abroad For a Beautiful Body

In a world where every woman feels under duress to look their best, many ladies are choosing cosmetic surgery to assist them in looking more youthful and healthier. Combating the march of the years is the thinking behind choosing to undergo surgery, and even young women are seeking cosmetic help to assist them in looking better.

The pressure comes partly from seeing attractive celebrities and women on TV each day. Just walking about in public or driving your car means that you'll more than likely see a billboard with someone beautiful on it. Flip through the pages of a magazine to find loads of immaculate looking, slim women. Enter any beauticians or make-up shop to be hit with yet more pictures of perfectly sculpted bodies.

The majority of people can ignore these images of beauty in the press, since most people know full well that they can't all resemble Scarlet Johansen. That said, with the plethora of new and cost-effective methods to get a new look, more people are choosing surgery to improve their looks. Indeed, more than 20 million US citizens chose some variety of cosmetic surgery in 2006.

Cheaper flights abroad have helped drive this increase in people traveling to get cheaper cosmetic surgery. This increase in medical tourism is seeing people head overseas to get great deals in countries like Thailand and Brazil. Many people choose to head abroad accompanied by a friend or family member at a cost which would not even cover the operation itself in their country of residence.

Non-invasive Cosmetic Surgery

The most popular procedure is facial reconstructive procedures, such as Botox. Ladies can travel, have Botox treatment to help wrinkles vanish, have chemical surgery to remove skin damaged by the sun or undergo microdermabrasion to increase the health of the skin. These kinds of procedures are favorites because they are non-intrusive and highly affordable to many.

Cosmetic Surgery

Cosmetic treatments which need actual surgery are also increasing in popularity, and breast enhancement operations are among the most common operations. A woman can have a quick procedure and be back in their home country in short order. Women can also undergo other treatments to help them have firm bodies without the need to put themselves through hell in the gym. Liposuction remains a fashionable treatment for slimming, and the majority of women report satisfaction with treatments carried out overseas.

The perfect body is the goal for some females, while a face that they are happy with is the target for others. Medical tourism is becoming increasingly popular as a means of helping people achieve body perfection. Women can now vanish abroad for a couple of weeks and come back home slimmer and prettier.

Many women also have cosmetic procedures to amend congenital imperfections or to repair their bodies following accidents.

Top 10 motivations for cosmetic procedures:

• Getting bigger breasts


• Remove fat from stomach, thighs, hips or posterior


• Remove excess skin from stomach after losing weight


• To level wrinkles on the face


• To get rid of unwanted hair


• To remove a bump off the nose


• To straighten bent noses


• To get rid of eye bags


• To enhance sun-damaged skin


• To boost lips

What to think about before going ahead

It's worth considering a few things before you go ahead with cosmetic surgery. First, is it safe? Any surgery carries a level of risk so do some research before deciding.

Where is the best place to have a treatment done? It will most likely be a private hospital in a foreign country. It's well worth investigating the clinic and the surgeon who will probably carry out the procedure in advance.

Also think about what other methods you could choose other than cosmetic surgery before taking the plunge. You don't want to make an uninformed leap only to find that you regret it afterward.

How Much Does Ear Plastic Surgery Cost?

Ear surgery especially cosmetic surgery of the ears is performed quite regularly. The ears are an important facial feature and both are on view when you look at a person's face so any irregularity or asymmetry as well as ears that stick out or droop is very obvious. People especially children who suffer from a visible condition such as this can suffer terrible emotional scars that can lead to depression, social isolation and other psychological side effects, thus many parents send their children for ear surgery to correct their problem before it impacts their lives too much.

Cosmetic surgery is not the only surgery performed on the ear there are numerous operations that can be performed from cosmetic procedures to full reconstructions, skin cancer removal and subsequent reconstruction and repair as well as operations on the inner ear including operations to improve hearing function.

This article will concentrate on cosmetic surgery costs for the ear as the more involved inner ear and hearing related operations are highly specialized and costs will be dependent upon the actual procedure.

Most cosmetic ear surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure in a surgeon's office under local anaesthetic, and generally do not take any more than two or three hours. According to published records there were some 26,612 cosmetic ear surgeries or procedures performed in the US in 2003. The average cost of the procedures was $2,535. As with any average this figure can be slightly misleading with several operations and procedures costing less than this amount whilst complicated operations such as full ear reconstructions cost considerably more than this average figure.

Today the general cost of a traditional ear pinning surgery will cost around $2,500 to $3000 dollars, whilst an earlobe reconstruction will cost around $1000. One thing to bear in mind is that these figures only represent the fee that the surgeon will charge you to perform the operation or procedure and do not include the ancillary costs such as the operating room time, any tests such as blood tests or x rays that may be necessary, the cost of dressings and prescription medications etc. These ancillary or extra costs can quite often exceed $1000 to $1500. When you are discussing your ear surgery costs with your doctor ensure you find out the costs involved not only for him to perform the surgery but also the price of all of the ancillary costs.

Plastic Surgery Gone Wrong - Do You Really Need This?

We live in a culture that treasures youth and beauty. Unfortunately, none of us remain forever young. The pursuit of an eternally-young appearance motivates many people to seek cosmetic surgery. Others seek the elusive image of "beauty". Some people have scars or protruding ears, or some other feature that brings social stigma. Due to the health risks associated with obesity, some consider liposuction of fat to be a life-saving procedure. If you are considering a cosmetic procedure, you should make a well-informed decision. You should be aware of the danger of plastic surgery.

• As with any surgical procedure, there are risks, such as infection. Plastic surgery is a cosmetic altering of natural body, bone, skin, and tendon structure. The immune system may be weakened, resulting in infection, which can be life-threatening. Most plastic surgery is not a complicated procedure, but it is surgery. There is pain, and a time of recovery, during which you need to guard against infection.


• Especially if it's not the first procedure on a specific area, there may be structural damage. Even the most gifted surgeon may not be able to salvage the situation. The results are tragic. Many celebrities now wear the mask-like evidence of plastic surgery gone wrong. We see them all the time in magazines and television. Their obviously-botched surgery has left them not looking human. However, some got the results they were hoping for, based on their personal concept of attractiveness.


• Possibly, the reaction of people will not be the one desired. For example, if a woman has breast augmentation because she feels her bust line is inadequate, she may find she receives a lot of negative attention from men who will fixate on her breasts, and not see her. Or other women may think her shallow and phony for having it done. People in general will likely not take her seriously as a big-breasted woman. Sad, but true.


• Men now account for about 13 to 15% of the over-8 million procedures done each year in the U.S. One of the most dangerous procedures men are choosing is penis enlargement. Again, our culture has led them to believe they are inadequate. The healing time for this procedure can vary between a few weeks to several months. The results are permanent. This surgery can result in deformity, erectile dysfunction, sexual dysfunction, and/or a decrease in sexual satisfaction. It seems like the results of this procedure can make the problem worse than having a smaller penis.

Consider beauty. Someone, somewhere sets standards for what a culture accepts as the beauty ideals. In our society, the media and fashion industries have a profound effect on this standard. It also changes over time. Here are some of those "ideals" being promoted currently:

• A fair complexion with even tone and smooth skin. Even people of all colors often seek procedures to lighten their skin, to have a more vibrant-looking complexion.


• A narrow and straight nose, with the tip being the highest point on the face. Also, narrow nostrils are considered desirable.


• Outstanding cheekbones. Cheekbones are not generally actually bone, but made from fat deposits. Cheek implants allegedly restore the definition lost over time.


• A strong chin. The shape of your chin affects the overall shape of your face.


• Well-defined eyes that are free from extra skin, heavy lids, or bags underneath are considered the ideal.


• One of the most commonly requested cosmetic procedures is lip enhancement. Fuller lips are a part of what our culture considers sexy. Unfortunately, there are many examples of this particular plastic surgery gone wrong. Often, the lips are enlarged without consideration of facial proportions, and it looks unnatural.


• Actually, most people's bodies and faces are not truly symmetrical. Often, people seek surgical means of balancing their features.

This list of "beauty ideals" is subject to change, as fashion changes. Thirty years ago, women wanted large breasts and small posteriors. In recent years, women prefer to have a larger bottom. Women who are naturally large-breasted are getting breast reductions, and women with small bust lines are getting augmentations. The most common procedures for men are actually breast reductions and pectoral implants.

Whether cutting away, liposuctioning, or implanting, plastic surgery is invasive. It changes the natural state of the body. In many cases, the "improvements" people seek could be achieved through diet and exercise. But we live in a society that wants quick and easy fixes for the natural consequences of our actions.Plastic surgery offers the quick fix, but... do you really need this?

Facelifts and Non-Medical Cosmetic Surgeries - Know the Benefits

Regardless of the evidence to the contrary, nobody really thinks they'll grow older. So it's fair to say it's a bit of surprise when one day the face looking back at you is about 15 years older than you feel. And while in the past, it was easy to not pay attention what with all that employment and general job security, nowadays, there's little to take your mind off the fact you're getting more mature.

And in all likelihood, it's probably a bit nerve racking, what with the subtle reminding of your mortality, and the decided lack of pep in your step. And while denial is all good and well, and actually probably quite beneficial over the years, it might just be time to do something about it.

And that's why a wide variety of cosmetic and non-cosmetic procedures were invented, to help people look their best on the outside and also, how good they feel from inside. These procedures not only do these reduce the effects of natural aging but also improve on how a person looked when they were younger. There are many choices when seeking cosmetic improvements.

The first is choosing between surgical procedures and non-surgical procedures. While both can make marked improvements over one's appearance there are individual benefits to both options.

Facelifts are a procedure in which the skin is tightened over the facial area, giving a younger, healthier appearance. The procedure takes a couple of hours, but is usually done on an outpatient basis, meaning very little time spent at the medical facility.

With facelifts, general anesthetic is used, and as with all surgeries, there are complications that can arise from going under. Other complications include blood clotting, scarring and bruising. It should be noted in the majority of operations, there is very little actual pain, and the pain that is present can be managed with proper pain medication.

The results of such procedures can be quite impressive, doing much to making a person look younger. Most people can be candidates for such an operation, both some do better than others. Elasticity in the skin around the facial area can drastically improve results as can a healthy mindset and positive outlook.

It is recommended that heavy smokers, heavy drinkers, and chronic drug users refrain from such procedures, as it can complicate the surgery and the initial recovery process.

There are several non-medical procedures that can also greatly benefit one's appearance, such as microdermabrasion and laser skin resurfacing. These procedures are what are called lunchtime procedures, meaning they can be done quickly with minimal pain and no recovery time to speak off.

These can do much to help eliminate the signs of aging. As opposed to facelifts, the effects are decidedly less, and it often takes several visits before any progress is noticeable. The upside is that it's much more economical and perfect for those not ready to climb under the knife. So instead of panicking about the effects of natural aging, do something about it. It could be just the thing to help one age gracefully.

Combined Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing - New Cosmetic Laser Treatment For Wrinkle Removal

All of us over 30 begin to see distressing signs of facial aging and sun damaged skin. Sun worshippers and smokers see these skin aging changes sooner. Fractional laser skin resurfacing, a non-surgical anti-aging skin rejuvenation method was introduced several years ago as an improved method for wrinkle removal and facial skin rejuvenation. 

Fractional laser skin resurfacing was developed to eliminate many of the problems associated with traditional old time laser skin resurfacing. Traditional laser skin resurfacing was very effective at wrinkle removal, but recovery was long and difficult and the skin often turned white, called hypo pigmentation, 6 months after treatment. Fractional laser skin resurfacing was developed to remove wrinkles and rejuvenate the skin with minimal downtime, quick recovery and normal skin color and texture after the skin rejuvenation procedure. 

Recently, a new technique called combined fractional laser skin resurfacing has been developed to improve wrinkle removal and skin rejuvenation results. This new technique provides much better wrinkle removal and skin rejuvenation, but also plumps and improves the texture of aging skin much better than previous techniques.

How Does Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing Remove Wrinkles and Rejuvenate the Skin?

The basic cause of skin wrinkles and skin aging changes is loss of collagen in the skin. Collagen in the deep layer of our skin provides moisture, nutritional support, skin plumping and elasticity which is the firmness and skin tightening component of our skin.

As we age, exposure to years of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight, toxins in our diet and environment, and unhealthy lifestyles such as smoking and tanning all contribute to the destruction of collagen in our skin. When collagen is lost, our skin looses texture, elasticity and fullness, and wrinkles and sagging skin result. For an analogy, think of a plump juicy plum with smooth skin. Place the plum into the sun for a period of time, water (like collagen in the skin) is lost and the plum turns into a wrinkled prune.

In an effort to protect itself, our skin surface responds to these aging changes by producing pigment to block the UV sunlight, and our skin thickens with extra layers of dry old looking skin.

All cosmetic laser skin rejuvenation methods attempt to restore skin to a youthful state by stimulating the skin to grow new collagen to replace lost skin collagen to plump and tighten loose skin.  In addition, many cosmetic laser skin rejuvenation methods strip away the damaged surface skin cells to remove pigment and dead thickened skin and stimulate new healthy looking skin cells to grow.

Fractional laser skin resurfacing is a skin rejuvenation technique which removes dead surface skin cells and pigment and stimulates the deep layer of the skin, the dermis to produce new collagen to replace the collagen that has been lost by facial aging changes. In summary:

Skin aging is results in:

•        Loss of collagen in the skin=wrinkles and loose skin


• Skin surface changes=dry, pigmented, course skin

All cosmetic laser skin resurfacing methods rejuvenate skin by:

• Removing aged skin surface cells and promoting new skin cell growth


• Promoting new deep skin collagen to plump wrinkles and tighten skin

Why is Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing Better?

Older CO2 laser resurfacing, called flat beam laser resurfacing produced excellent wrinkle removal and skin tightening, but recovery was very difficult, requiring weeks for the skin to heal. In addition, traditional laser skin resurfacing damaged pigment cells in the skin which caused the skin to turn white. These problems were caused by the fact that the older lasers treated the entire surface of the facial skin, thus healing required new skin cells to be produced by hair follicles and sweat glands in the skin. This was a very slow process requiring up to two weeks for new skin cells to cover the surface of the face.

New fractional laser skin resurfacing is effective but much safer than traditional CO2 resurfacing. The fractional laser resurfacing beam is broken up into many small beams so that the laser affects only small focused areas of the skin. Fractional laser resurfacing leaves skip areas on the skin that are left normal and undamaged. These untreated skin cells are able to rapidly heal the treated skin with new skin cells. The treated areas, called micro treatment zones are healed in 6 hours with the fractional Lux2940 Erbium laser on the Starlux laser. CO2 fractional lasers like the Fraxel Repair and Lumenis ActiveFX and DeepFX take a little longer, up to 48-72 hours.

Fractional lasers are also able to penetrate the skin into the dermis much deeper than flat beam techniques. Deeper penetration causes more effective new collagen production. This characteristic results in improved skin plumping and better skin texture.

Fractional laser skin resurfacing is better than old time flat beam laser resurfacing because skin healing is much quicker, and the risk of white skin, hypo pigmentation is much less.

The benefits of fractional laser skin resurfacing are:

• Quicker skin healing


• Deeper penetration for better collagen production


• Less risk of hypo pigmentation


• Improved skin texture


• More gentle, quicker recovery


• Improved wrinkle removal, pigment removal and skin tightening

What Is Non-ablative Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing-Fraxel, Starlux Lux1540, Affirm

The first fractional lasers were introduced 3-4 years ago and are non-ablative 1450nm and 1540nm (nm=nanometers or one millionth of a meter, and are the units used to measure the wavelength of a particular laser) Erbium lasers. Non-ablative laser skin treatments go deep into the dermis of the skin to promote new collagen, but non-ablative lasers to not ablate or remove the surface skin cells.

Thus the non-ablative fractional skin resurfacing lasers remove wrinkles by building new collagen in the skin, but do not remove the surface aging changes of the skin.

The benefit on the non-ablative technique is that there is less recovery time for healing as the skin is not broken. You are pink after a treatment, but can wear makeup and no recovery time is required.

Because non-ablative treatments are weaker, you need 4 treatments scheduled 4-6 weeks apart for a good result.

I use the Starlux Lux1540 non-ablative laser; other models are the Fraxel and the Affirm. The best applications are acne scar removal, scar improvement, skin plumping, pigment removal and mild to moderate wrinkle removal

Because the skin surface is not ablated, wrinkle removal is less effective with the non-ablative lasers, thus new ablative fractional laser resurfacing technology has been developed in the past year and a half.

What Is Ablative Fractional Laser Resurfacing

For ablation, different laser wavelengths, the 2940nm Erbium laser and the CO2 laser are used. These laser wavelengths are more powerful and vaporize the skin cells on the surface as well as causing inflammation deep into the dermis.

Because surface skin cells are removed, the ablative fractional lasers are more effective at removing wrinkles, pigment, and old dead skin cells. The downside is that some recovery is required for skin healing, however the down time is much less, about a third of the time required recovering from old time flat beam laser skin treatments.

The other benefit is that ablative fractional laser skin resurfacing requires only one treatment, as opposed to the 4 treatments required for non-ablative techniques.

I use the Starlux lux2940 fractional ablative laser resurfacing method. The Starlux Lux2940 is an Erbium laser and heals faster than the fractional CO2 lasers, the Fraxel Repair, the ActiveFX and DeepFX ablative machines. 

What is Combined Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing and Why is It Better?

The newest and most effective cosmetic laser skin rejuvenation treatment I combined fractional laser skin resurfacing. After two years of research and over two hundred treatments, we have learned that combining the Starlux Lux1540 non ablative treatment with the Starlux lux2940 ablative treatment provides the most effective wrinkle removal and skin rejuvenation treatment.

The Starlux Lux1540 and Starlux Lux2940 are done in the same treatment session. The results in terms of wrinkle removal, skin plumping, improved skin texture, pigment removal and general skin rejuvenation are excellent and better than either treatment done alone.

This is a very new technique; I just presented our findings in Dallas, Texas at the Palomar Medical Advanced laser seminar on January 24, 2009. We have been working on this project for over two years.

How Is Combined Fractional Laser Skin Resurfacing Done?

The combined fractional laser skin resurfacing treatment is done in my office with a topical local anesthetic cream. Your face will be cleansed and a topical numbing cream applied. I also give you a tranquilizer and an analgesic to help you relax and be more comfortable during treatment.

The Starlux Lux1540 treatment is done first by my medical aesthetician and takes about 30 minutes. Numbing medicine is re-applied, and I or my plastic surgeon associate do the actual Starlux Lux2940 ablative treatment.

After your treatment we apply cold wet compresses to the skin. Then a soothing ointment will be placed on your skin, and you will go home. During the first 24 hours you will place soothing soaks on your skin and apply ointment every few hours.

By day 2 or 3 you will finish the soaks and only apply ointment as you need it.

You will be given analgesic tablets in case you need them and Valtrex to protect you from a Herpes Skin outbreak. We also give you prophylactic antibiotics to protect against skin infection during healing.

What Will I look Like After Treatment and How Long Is Recovery?

Your skin will be pink to red after treatment. The first 24 hours your skin will be moist and old skin cells will peel off and be removed by the soaks.

Your new skin will cover your face in 2 to 3 days, very different from the 2-3 weeks required for skin healing after the old time float beam laser treatments.

Your face will remain pink for 5-7 days, but you can wear make up by day 4. This is about a third or fourth of the recovery time from a deep chemical peel or an old time flat beam laser treatment. 

When Do I See My Final Result?

You will see a remarkable improvement in wrinkles and skin texture with fresh new skin starting at 10 days and for the first 3 weeks. However, new collagen production, the main goal of this treatment does not begin for 6 weeks and continues for one year after treatment.

The initial benefits are due to swelling of the skin which subsides at about 3-4 weeks so expect to see your wrinkles return initially.

However at 3 months you will really start to see the improvement in your skin and at 6 months results are very dramatic.

In my experience, wrinkle removal, skin tightening and improvement in skin plumping and skin texture are most obvious at one year following treatment.

How Do I Find A Doctor Who Uses This Technique?

Board certified plastic surgeons and dermatologists are the experts at laser skin rejuvenation treatments. Ablative laser resurfacing is more commonly done by plastic surgeons because of the complexity of skin care after the procedure.

The new combined technique is so new that it will be some time before it is widely practiced.

Be certain that your physician is board certified and has experience in laser surgery-there are many new users of lasers who simply do not have the experience required for these advance laser treatments.

Check the websites of the organizations below for credible information and guidance:

American Board of Plastic Surgeons

American Society of Plastic Surgeons

American Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons