December 20th, 2011 admin
Everyone has heard the term “plastic surgery” and most probably feel that they understand what it means. The first things that come to mind are most likely breast implants, Botox, and Hollywood, given the reputation that those two words have gained through the mainstream media.
However, it may surprise you to find that plastic surgery isn’t quite what you think it is. By nature, plastic surgery is a restorative practice that is dedicated to the reparation and reconstruction of facial and bodily defects. Many things can cause physical defects, such as birth disorders, vehicular or work accidents, burns, and diseases.
So what about the purely aesthetic surgical procedures, such as breast implants or Botox? There is a term for these as well: cosmetic surgery.
Cosmetic surgery focuses on enhancing patients’ appearances through surgical and medical means. For example, breast implants are surgical, whereas Botox injections are medical. Cosmetic surgery can be performed all over the face and body.
One of the other key differences between cosmetic and plastic surgery is in the training that the doctors and surgeons receive. There are specific residency programs designed to train plastic surgeons in the United States. Cosmetic surgeons, on the other hand, have no specific related residency program. Instead, they serve their residency in a wide range of other medical branches, with common examples including dermatology, otolaryngology, general surgery, and plastic surgery. Some training for cosmetic surgery may or may not be included in the training for other medical disciplines. Typically, cosmetic surgeons receive training post-residency.
For this reason, it is important to be aware of your doctor or surgeon’s experience and training regarding your particular medical needs. Dr. Beran is a surgeon who has extensive experience with both disciplines. He is board certified by American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and specializes in cosmetic plastic surgery. His work has led him to receive honors such as the Certificate of Advanced Education in Cosmetic Surgery, and he is also a member of several professional organizations, including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS).
For more information regarding the difference between a cosmetic and plastic surgeon, and are interested in a procedure, contact Dr. Beran at his New York, Harrison, or Mount Kisco office today, Cosmetic Surgery Associates of New York, to schedule a consultation.
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December 13th, 2011 admin
More women today, and even some men, are opting to have butt implant surgery to increase the shape of their buttocks to enhance their figure or physique. This is especially true for athletic and thin-framed people who are having difficulty achieving greater shape due to their build. The choice to get implant surgery has also gained popularity among women thanks in part to Latin influences where there is greater physical emphasis on the hips.
Butt implants are made of silicone and usually inserted beneath the fibrous lining that encases buttock muscles, called the fascia. They can also be placed in the intramuscularplane, which is typical for thin patients with little body fat. They are generally available in four styles. Style 3 is the most common due to the fact that it is a round, non-directional implant. It is also easy to work with in that it can be placed under the fascia as well as in the intra-muscular plane. These implants provide increased projection uniformly around the buttocks. And as non-directional implants, the issue of any movement or shifting is virtually eliminated.
Styles 1 and 2 are more oval in shape and are directional implants. These are placed behind the fascia and unlike circular Style 3, have to be specifically oriented by your surgeon to best suit your body’s needs. Style 2 is wider and more circular than Style 1.
Style 4 implants are completely unique to the individual, are custom-made, and have no prototypical shape.
Each style of butt implant varies in its dimensions. Depending on your body type, your desired look, and what the surgeon feels is appropriate, the Style that is best for you will be chosen based upon its ability to give you the most natural appearance.
If you are interested in receiving butt implants and would like to know which style would be best for you, contact Cosmetic Surgery Associates of New York today to schedule a free consultation.
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November 30th, 2011 admin
Men and women now have many cosmetic options when it comes to maintaining a youthful facial appearance; however, they are often unsure which treatment will best meet their aesthetic needs. So, if you’re trying to figure out which procedure is best for you, here are some criteria to consider:
Dermal fillers are much less expensive than a facelift, not to mention requires far less procedural and recovery time. Consequently, patients who would like to receive dermal filler treatment, such as Juvederm® or Restylane® (both derive from hyaluronic acid, which is naturally occurring in the body) will require continuous treatment sessions in order to preserve the results – effects are temporary. Facelift surgery, on the other hand, are permanent and also more comprehensive.
Take a look at your face in the mirror and consider the parts that have an adequate amount of mobility. Notice anything around the mouth? That’s right, there’s a lot of muscle here and not a lot of fat. This will naturally lead to gradual wrinkling and line formation. If you are simply looking to improve your lips or areas above and below them, then fillers may be the way to go. Another facial area full of muscles that does not have a lot of fat is the forehead. This is a very common area for Botox ® treatment, because this type of injectable is designed to block the muscle movement that causes wrinkles to form. The areas around the eyes are certainly prone to wrinkles as well, due to the constant use and contraction of muscles. Like all parts of the face, age plays a significant role in its wrinkle development. Botox injections commonly target the forehead area for a smoother appearance.
Now, consider some other parts of the face. Look at your cheeks, jowls, and neck. These areas contain much more fat that than those listed above and are affected primarily by age. There is nothing we can do about decreasing facial fat with age; it is just one of the facts of life. For patients who have multiple issues in these areas, and have some wrinkles they would like to address in the more mobile facial regions as well, a facelift may be the way to go. As said before, it is more comprehensive than injectables and is best for patients who have several issues they want to address.
If you would like to discuss your concerns with Dr. Beran, feel free to call his office and schedule a consultation. We will be happy to help you make the best decision between Botox, Restylane, & Juvederm.
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November 23rd, 2011 admin
It is no secret that one of the most highly-targeted areas of the body in cosmetic plastic surgery is the stomach. Everyone wants a flat mid-section, and while diet and exercise are the healthiest ways to achieve this goal, some people may need a little extra help. Listed below are a few considerations to determine if now is the ideal time to undergo a tummy tuck.
First of all, it is important to know what a tummy tuck can accomplish. This cosmetic procedure removes excess fat and skin in the abdominal region, as well as tightens weakened stomach muscles. It is one of the top five cosmetic surgical procedures in the country; the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) report that approximately 150,000 tummy tucks were performed in 2010.
One of the major reasons women opt for a tummy tuck is to reduce the excess skin left over from pregnancy. Other reasons that both men and women seek a tummy tuck are to address sagging skin from aging, post-surgical conditions, and the excess skin after significant weight loss.
For these reasons, if you plan on losing more weight or becoming pregnant, it may not be the best time to undergo tummy tuck surgery. Other factors that may qualify you as a good candidate: You do not smoke, are at a stable weight, and are committed to a balanced diet and exercise regimen.
It is important to also emphasize that a tummy tuck is not a substitute for weight loss; rather, it is designed to help reshape an already physically healthy body. As always, consult a qualified surgeon to make sure a tummy tuck is a good option for you at this time in your life.
If you are interested in undergoing abdominoplasty or have any questions, feel free to contact Dr. Beran to schedule a consultation.
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November 15th, 2011 admin
One of the most common plastic surgery procedures is also one of the oldest: breast augmentation. Since their invention 50 years ago, silicone implants have been carefully studied and refined. Now in their fifth generation, they are safer and produce better results than ever.
In 1961, Dow Corning researchers Thomas Cronin and Frank Gerow created the first implant. It was a rubber shell filled with silicone gel. They were firm to the touch and certainly did not have the kind of give and flexibility that implants have today. Another difference was how they were implanted. It was believed then that implants had to be attached to breast tissue in order to stay in place. In the early stages, a silicone mesh was fixed to the implant, but was soon discontinued. As the years went by, the shell gradually became thinner and less bulky.
It was not until the 1970s that the second generation of implants came to be. These were thinner yet and contained more liquid silicone filling. The evolution of the product was there, but this was a problematic time for the still new technology as these implants was said top rupture easily and leak silicone. This lead to many lawsuits against Dow Corning, not to mention quite a bit of controversy over the safety of the procedure. The FDA even banned the implants’ use for 14 years.
In the early 1980s, manufacturing improvements brought the implant back in improved and safer form. Third generation implants’ cover material was reinforced with silica to help against silicone leaking. The fourth generation followed soon thereafter in the mid-1980s with the focus centering on the implants’ filling. Thicker, silicone gel filing finally put implants back on the map and these fourth generation versions regained FDA approval in 2006.
Today, there is a fifth generation of implant that is better than ever. The silicone material is not only thick and cohesive, it’s formally more stable. The gel these days is a hybrid material that’s solid in shape but has enough softness to give the implants a more natural give and feel. The implants have a bounce to the touch and when cut open, they not only retain their shape, but do not leak.
If you are considering getting breast implants, call Dr. Beran’s office to schedule a consultation.
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October 27th, 2011 admin
When is the right time for a Mommy Makeover? Many women ask this question.
Now, more than ever, women have a variety of surgical options to reverse the unwanted effects of childbearing, body changes, and aging. However, some are unsure about when a Mommy Makeover is the right option for them, worrying about taking time away from their hectic schedules to undergo a surgical procedure.
A Mommy Makeover can help you look and feel younger, sexier, and more energetic – which can lead to a healthier, happier mommy. The image of a more fit, energetic you may help you gain confidence in the Mommy Makeover surgery decision.
With that in mind, when is it the right time for such a procedure? To start, Mommy Makeover surgery is normally performed after a woman has completed all childbearing. If you intend to become pregnant again, you may want to postpone your surgery until after your final pregnancy. Reasons for this can be discussed during a consultation.
Another way to determine if you’re ready for a Mommy Makeover is to evaluate the changes in your body. Are sagging breasts, concentrated belly fat, and stubborn fat in certain body areas causing a lag in your self-confidence? If so, you may be a good candidate. A Mommy Makeover combines breast lift surgery (which does not require implants, but can incorporate them if a patient wishes) with tummy tuck surgery and sometimes liposuction to contour a woman’s figure back to its pre-childbirth appearance.
Mommy Makeover surgery results can be dramatic, yet appear quite natural to the outside observer. A tighter stomach, a more lifted bustline, and improved body contours make the Mommy Makeover an appealing choice for “mommies” with a variety of lifestyles. If you believe it may be time for a Mommy Makeover, please contact the office of Dr. Beran today. We will be glad to discuss your surgical options during a consultation.
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October 12th, 2011 admin
Liposuction Priorities: Healthy Lifestyle First
Many people turn to liposuction as a solution to eliminate stubborn fat that is diet and exercise-resistant. With that in mind, it’s important to note that liposuction is not a weight loss procedure. Good liposuction candidates are already practicing healthy lifestyle habits so that potential risk for complications prior to surgery is reduced and maintaining the results is easier. You can prepare for liposuction by following these healthy lifestyle tips:
Have a Healthy Diet
This is common sense that’s often overlooked: Having a healthy diet is essential. For example, you already know that breakfast is the most important meal of the day; but like many people, you may skip it entirely or drink coffee throughout the morning. This is a mistake for maintaining liposuction results, because doing this makes you more likely to snack on something sugary mid-morning and/or binge later in the day. Instead, eat a healthy breakfast with ingredients like whole wheat, fruit, or lean proteins. This is a habit you will want to keep up once your liposuction recovery is complete, because it can help you continue a healthier diet all day long.
Following liposuction, you’ll still want to eat three meals per day, but to keep the liposuction results in proportion with the rest of the body it’s important to make lunches lighter and replace fatty dinners with those that are tasty but nutritious. Snacks are still fine too, but just like anyone changing to a healthy lifestyle, liposuction patients should stick to low fat, sugar-free snacks as often as they can. You can be prepared for liposuction by incorporating those healthy diet tips now.
Drink Water
Drinking plenty of water isn’t just an old-fashioned notion; it’s essential for optimum health. Keeping your body free from toxins by flushing them with water will help your body prepare for liposuction, and it’s also a habit that can help you cut down on sugar and caffeine by replacing them in your diet. Before and after liposuction, you’ll receive instructions on how much water to consume for optimal health and recovery.
Exercise
This may be the most important way to maintain liposuction results. Exercising helps blood circulation and aids the body in trimming fat. While it is true that the fat cells targeted by liposuction cannot resurface, it’s still possible to gain weight in other areas, thereby distorting the results of liposuction. You can combat this by exercising daily in order to ensure that your body maintains liposuction results and stays trim in the areas that were not targeted.
As a liposuction candidate, your priorities should be to achieve a healthy lifestyle first, and then undergo this body contouring surgery. To address your specific liposuction questions, contact the office of Dr. Beran today. He can answer your inquiries during an initial consultation.
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October 6th, 2011 admin
With so many facial fillers on the market today, it can be easy to confuse them. Unlike Botox®, which blocks the offending facial muscles to smooth deep creases in the skin, facial fillers “fill in” the area with medicinal substances suspended in smooth gel. Currently, one of the most popular facial fillers is Juvederm®. Some frequently asked questions regarding Juvederm are answered here.
What are the ingredients in Juvederm?
Juvederm is comprised of cross-linked hyaluronic acid, which is the same substance featured in fillers like Restylane®. Hyaluronic acid is a bioengineered, naturally occurring bacteria that is purified and then converted into a biodegradable gel form. The benefits of this type of filler include its very low risk of allergic reaction, and its natural-looking results.
Is Juvederm FDA approved?
Juvederm was FDA approved in 2006. It is manufactured and marketed by Allergan.
What is Juvederm for?
According to the manufacturer, Juvederm is ideal for targeting:
- Smile lines from the bottom of the nose to the corners of the mouth
- Nasolabial folds (large “parentheses” around the mouth)
- Marionette lines (vertical wrinkles or folds below the corners of the mouth)
- Wrinkles above and around the lips, often caused by sunlight, smoking, or stress
- The lips (can be used to plump up the lips)
Why are there two Juvederm formulas?
There are two types of Juvederm: Juvederm Ultra, which is used to correct moderately deep facial wrinkles and to add fullness to the lips, and Juvederm Ultra Plus, which has a denser formulation for improving the appearance of deep facial folds.
How long does Juvederm last?
According to the manufacturer, Juvederm results may last up to one year. In some patients, touch-up treatments are required during that time.
Are there any Juvederm side effects?
Juvederm side effects are usually mild to moderate and last seven days or less. They may include temporary injection-site reactions such as redness, pain, firmness, swelling, and bumps. Although hyaluronic acid is hypo-allergenic, Juvederm is not for people with a history of severe skin allergies.
When should you choose Juvederm over Botox or other fillers?
Botox results typically last for a period of up to six months. It is generally safe and most patients enjoy satisfying results. However, it is not for everybody. If your doctor determines you may be at risk for Botox side effects, Juvederm may be a good alternative.
Juvederm is manufactured by Allergen, the same company as Botox. It was created in response to the growing popularity of facial fillers. As for comparing Juvederm to other facial fillers, some doctors recommend Juvederm over others (i.e., Restylane) because it is said to offer a smoother texture. Your doctor can explain his preferences when you inquire about your options as a Juvederm patient.
To discuss your options, please contact the office of Dr. Beran today.
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September 22nd, 2011 admin
At Dr. Beran’s NYC practice, we know that patients are interested in learning as much as they can about various procedures of interest. While the details regarding your particular area of interest can be discussed during the consultation, here are some random “crazy” facts that you may find interesting (many of which Dr. Beran does not endorse or offer at his practice), according to a recent article on lemondrop.com:
The largest breast implants in the world are owned by Sheyla Hershey, a 31-year-old Texan woman with a 38KKK bust (however, it has been reported that Sheyla recently had the implants removed)
- Procedures like facelift, rhinoplasty, and tummy tuck surgery have been performed on dogs to remedy skin fold and breathing problems in certain breeds (i.e. bulldogs and pugs).
- Some eccentric pet owners have gone so far as to request testicular implants, breast augmentation, and Botox® for their dogs and cats.
- Liposuction may safely remove six to eight pounds of fat from the target area (although most surgeons recommend setting a goal for inches, not pounds, as liposuction is simply designed to recontour the figure).
- Some of the least common cosmetic surgery procedures include hymen reconstruction, dimple fabrication, knee lift, and toe shortening.
- A clinic in Prague, Czechoslovakia made free cosmetic surgery into a signing incentive for newly hired staff members.
- Only 23 percent of men polled said they would be interested in undergoing cosmetic surgery. (However, one of the fastest-growing groups of patients is men. Many of our NYC facelift patients are male professionals seeking to get ahead in a tough job market, and some of our NYC tummy tuck patients are men as well.)
Feel free to schedule your consultation with Dr. Beran at your earliest convenience. He can help determine which procedure is right for you!
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September 13th, 2011 admin
Buttocks augmentation is a procedure designed to enhance the contour and projection of the buttocks. It is usually performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure, and can be done by transferring the patient’s own fat from another part of the body (“donor fat”) to the buttocks, or by inserting buttock implants.
It is common to hear media reports about butt augmentation, as many speculate whether certain celebrities have butt implants. However, these stories don’t represent the typical butt augmentation candidate. So, who are the right candidates for butt augmentation?
Butt Augmentation with Implants: Are you a candidate?
For butt augmentation using implants, candidates are typically thin patients with flat backsides, who do not have enough donor fat elsewhere to use for augmentation. In this procedure, silicone implants are inserted underneath the gluteal (buttock) muscles through a small incision in the lower back near the tail bone area.
Standard buttocks augmentation usually takes around two to three hours to perform. As for recovery, you will be encouraged to move and walk after the first or second day. Most patients return to work in two or three weeks, and more strenuous activity is allowed in four to six weeks.
Butt Augmentation with Fat Transfer: Are you a candidate?
Individuals who wish to augment their buttocks, and have enough fat stored in their trunk or extremities to serve as donor fat typically make for good candidates for this method. In this method, liposuction is performed in the donor area, and the harvested fat is purified before being re-injected using special cannulas into the buttock area for augmentation.
This variation of butt augmentation takes around three to four hours to perform, with a recovery that ranges from five to seven days. Patients are allowed to go back to work in one to two weeks.
To learn more about your candidacy for buttocks augmentation, please contact Dr. Beran today.
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