Nuestro blog

How much does a Rhinoplasty Cost?
The Breakdown of the Cost of a Rhinoplasty
Some people avoid having a rhinoplasty because they feel as though the cost is prohibitive. You may, in fact, be able to afford a rhinoplasty if you use financing from your doctor’s office. Let’s take a look at what costs go into having a rhinoplasty and how you can pay for them. Talk with your doctor about what goes into having your rhinoplasty and how much yours will cost.Speak with your surgeon about the extent of the procedure and how much he or she thinks the procedure will cost. Decide if having the procedure is worth the excessive cost and the pain of having the procedure done. If you have always wanted a rhinoplasty, it may be worth the extra cost and discomfort.
What goes into Rhinoplasty Prices?
You need to think of several factors when planning how much your rhinoplasty will cost. Factor these things into the cost as it is dependent on a number of things.
- The training of the plastic surgeon
- Where you live geographically
- How extensive the surgery is
- What services you will need
- What kind of care you will need after the surgery
The training of the plastic surgeon plays a big role in the overall cost of the rhinoplasty. A surgeon who specializes in rhinoplasty will cost more due to his or her extensive experience in the area. While it may cost more, you really do want to have a plastic surgeon who is well trained in doing the procedure because you want good results, regardless of the cost.You also have to think about the care you receive preoperatively and postoperatively. You need to know how much of the facility time you will take up and the medications you need to take during and after the procedure. Don’t forget to include these things when you finance the rhinoplasty procedure.
Understanding Body Contouring
Undergoing body contouring can be an exciting process. It uses the various sculpting processes done by plastic surgeons in order to reshape the body in nearly any area. You will be able to get rid of body fat you don’t want and can your skin made smooth and taut. It works well for those stubborn areas that don’t go away even with your healthy living habits. Let’s take a look at the various techniques used in body contouring, including liposuction and tummy tuck procedures.
Technique for Body Sculpting
Plastic and cosmetic surgery specialists use different techniques in order to sculpt your body and make it look much better. Some of these techniques include liposuction, which is a very popular technique for body sculpting. It takes fat out of certain areas using only a few small incisions. A suction machine removes the stubborn areas of fat deposits in your body and allows the area to be smooth and thinner.The surgeon can do a tummy tuck, which is also called an abdominoplasty. It gets rid of extra skin that is hanging down from your belly. The surgeon often does this in combination with a liposuction or with a full body lift. Full body lifts are big procedures to have done but are necessary in some cases.Body lifts are done on any body area that has excess skin on it. This can include the thighs, the upper arms or the buttocks. Such lifts keep the body areas toned and temporarily immune from the effects of gravity. You can have part of your body lifted or the entire body lifted in a single procedure.In some cases, you might need body implants. These are a part of body sculpting and actually add implanted areas onto your body. Your breasts can be implanted as can your buttocks. Even areas in your biceps, pectoral areas, and calf can have silicone implants placed to contour the body.
How our Body Image is Affected
If you find yourself uncomfortable when you look in the mirror, you are having body image problems. It can affect your social life, your personal life and your life at work. Your entire confidence can be affected. For this reason, many people undergo body contouring in order to look the way they want to look. Finally, you can look great in a bathing suit and not have to worry about cellulite. Fat removal, removal of excess skin, and cellulite removal can counter your body’s insecurities and you’ll feel better about yourself.
Looking for a great Contouring Physician
Use a search engine search or the Yellow Pages to find a surgeon who does body contouring. Contact a consultant and find out what procedures would be necessary and see if this seems like the surgeon for you. Get references from other patients if those are available. Then find out how many of the procedures you are interested in, the surgeon has done before.
Eye plastic surgery – Three procedures with 1 goal
Blepharoplasty, or eyelid plastic surgery was one of the five most common performed plastic surgeries in 2007. People want to have eye plastic surgery for both functional and cosmetic reasons, even though the last one is the most common reason. It can be quite annoying however to have limited eyesight because of the excess of skin from your eyelids and that is why eye plastic surgery is sometimes done for functional reasons.Several different procedures are available to aid people with eye problems.
- Eye plastic surgery. Eyelid surgery can be used in order to remove excessive amounts of tissue and skin on and around the eyelids. During this process some minor incisions will be made in the eyelid. Once the incisions are made the surgeon is able to remove a thin layer of excessive skin, fat and muscles. Once the tissue is removed the larger part of the procedure is done. The surgeon will close the small incisions with fine sutures that are hardly visible. Another option is to leave the incisions for what they are since they are so minuscule and let the natural healing process take over.
- Laser Eye plastic surgery. With the help of a laser the tissue around the eyes can be removed or reduced.
- New Facelift Surgery. Facelift Surgery helps a patient by improving the looks of the entire face. The forehead creases are reduced, the hanging eyebrows are tightened, and the areas around your eyes where you have excessive tissue can be taken care of as well. With a facelift you basically improve the looks of your entire face by removing excessive skin and tightening the skin.
Plastic surgery for the eye is actually a procedure that typically doesn’t take a lot of time. Once the procedure has been executed the client shouldn’t watch television for a few days and should stay at home for at least one week. If you wear contact lenses you should not wear them for two weeks after the operation.Eye plastic surgery is there to help people feel more confident about their looks. It doesn’t necessarily mean that you will look ideal but the areas around your eyes can look better than before.
How to Get Rid of Acne Scars That Are Located On the Face
About Facial Acne Scar Removal
Severe acne during adolescence can often lead to scarring. These scars may vary widely in shape, type and color. This can leave individuals overwhelmed with how to get rid of acne scars.An ideal form of treatment is that of an individualized treatment plan, due to the variation in scars. Most facial acne scars can be treated successfully using one of the current modalities available, which is Coolaser.If an individual is seeking other alternatives for how to get rid of acne scars other than Coolaser. Facial Acne Scar Removal there are other forms of treatment. Several options are microdermabrasion, topical creams, chemical peels, CO2 laser resurfacing, and injectable fillers.Many individuals that are faced with how to get rid of acne scars feel that Coolaser Facial Acne Scar Removal is the best treatment for acne scars currently available. The basic thought behind this process is much like sanding the surface of a damaged table so that the scars are less deep. The procedure itself takes about an hour. First, the treated area is numbed, using a topical cream. Then a beam of light removes the outermost layer of the skin. Though healing takes 10 to 12 days, a 60% to 80% improvement may usually be expected depending on the type and extent of scarring. A single treatment may not remove scars entirely if they are too deep. These deeper scars can be corrected by injections under the skin. The injections are done with Radiesse, Restylane or Juvéderm.The procedure of Coolaser Facial Acne Scar Removal is available for both men and women. Typically this is an elective procedure, and it is important to have realistic expectations. Even though this is a highly recommended treatment for how to get rid of acne scars, it might not remove every detail. One of the main reasons that this procedure is believed to be the best treatment for acne scars is because there can be a very dramatic response seen in as few as one or two treatments.Coolaser Laser Acne Skin Resurfacing is considered to be a very safe procedure. However, it is important that a patient understand that any of the following may occur; a transient pigmentation change, swelling, and discomfort in the treated area. We feel that it is very important for every patient to understand the procedure and know the possible side effects. We will be happy to answer any of your questions during your consultation visit.Some patients are able to return to work the same day after the Coolaser Facial Acne Scar Removal procedure, although some treatments such as deep laser resurfacing may involve several days of recovery time. You may experience some discomfort, similar to a transient stinging sensation, during the Coolaser Facial Acne Scar Removal treatment. Our goal is to reduce as much discomfort as possible and the physician might opt to use a numbing cream and the application of local anesthetics during the treatment.When preparing for the procedure it is important for patients to understand that they need to avoid direct exposure to sunlight for 4 weeks prior to the laser skin resurfacing. We highly recommend the use a SPF 30 or greater sunscreen. If you have been instructed by the treating physician to use a topical cream 4–6 weeks prior to each treatment it is important to follow those instructions. If your physician has prescribed oral antibiotics and antiviral medication it is important to take all medication as prescribed. If at any time you have any questions or concerns please don’t hesitate to contact our office.After the procedure it is important to avoid direct exposure to sunlight for the first 6 weeks following your laser treatment. An SPF 30 or greater sunscreen should be used once your skin has healed. Trauma such as scratching or picking the treated area should be avoided at all costs. Showers are permitted but gently pat the area to dry. Apply Epione Healing Ointment as directed. Make up may be worn only after the treatment area has healed completely.Immediately after the procedure, cool soaks are recommended to reduce postoperative erythema (redness) and swelling. Any discomfort or burning at the treatment site may be relieved by taking Tylenol, or other mediations prescribed by your physician. If crusts or scabs develop, allow them to fall off on their own. If at any point during the recovery process you have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact our office.Once again, Coolaser Laser Acne Skin resurfacing is considered to be a very safe treatment for getting rid of acne scars. If you have facial acne scars and are interested in learning more about Coolaser Acne Skin resurfacing as a treatment for how to get rid of acne scars, please contact our office for a private consultation visit.
Breast Plastic Surgery - Symmetry, Form and Beauty
Woman’s breasts are the archetype of her beauty. They symbolize her femininity and sensuality and they identify her as a woman. A woman and her breasts were the eternal inspiration for poets, painters, sculptors and other artists throughout the centuries. Therefore, a woman treasures her breasts much more than the other parts of her body. However, a woman also tends to be more critical when it comes to her body and her overall goal is to be completely satisfied with her appearance.The true beauty of a woman comes from the inside and it reflects to the outside world through her body. Nevertheless, she needs to feel perfect about her body in order to truly reflect her beauty to the outside world.Breast plastic surgery may have an answer to the breast related aesthetic concerns you might have. The most common issues when it comes to female breasts are large, small and sagging breasts. With a professional‘s advice and the best care you may be able to gain the most from your breast plastic surgery when it comes to both health and beauty.When breast plastic surgery is mentioned, the first thing that comes to anyone’s mind are breast implants. So what exactly are breast implants? A breast implant, used for breast plastic surgery, is a form of prosthesis which is used in reconstructive surgical procedures or augmentation. It has a purpose of altering the shape and size of a woman's breast.However, breast plastic surgery procedures can be both reconstructive and cosmetic. Cosmetic plastic surgery involves breast enlargement and reduction while reconstructive breast plastic surgery is usually done after a mastectomy, which is a surgical procedure that involves removal of a breast usually due to a breast cancer treatment. This could be done either with breast implants or with autologous transfer of the tissue where tissue from the back or abdomen and fat is being used.Reconstruction breast plastic surgery usually involves more than one surgical procedure. Extra procedures that could be done include operation on the opposite breast so it could match the reconstructed breast better, adding a nipple and changing the size, shape or both of the reconstructed breast.When it comes to cosmetic surgery of breasts the most common procedures, as already mentioned, are breast reduction (reduction mammaplasty), breast augmentation (augmentation mammaplasty) and breast lifting (mastopexy). A cosmetic procedure for breast enlargement may include just augmentation of breasts with implants or breast lifting and you could even combine both procedures.A breast augmentation is a surgical treatment for women who have breasts that are smaller in size. With the help of a breast plastic surgery professional a woman with this problem will be advised on the appropriate procedure. If her choice falls on the breast implants, she will be advised on the size of implants according to her weight, height and other important physical characteristics.The opposite of breast enlargement, breast reduction is a surgical treatment for women who have breasts they consider too large in size. Larger breasts may cause physical problems and daily pain, not to mention that a woman, with larger breasts, may not feel very comfortable while engaged in certain physical activities such as jogging, running, gym,etc.Breast lifting or mastopexy is a procedure which helps women who have a problem with sagging breasts. This problem comes with aging, change of weight, pregnancy and breast-feeding, etc. Mastopexy procedure involves repositioning areolar complex of the nipple to a higher location on the chest.
Facial Acne Scars: Erasing The Marks Of Your Youth
Acne usually results when sebaceous glands become overactive and generate excessive oil which then plugs hair follicles in the skin. There is no complete answer as to just why facial acne scars occur more in some people than in others, but it is known that a number of various factors like genetics, environment, lifestyle, and skin health play a role. If you have had problems with acne in the past or are perhaps suffering from acne currently and would like to clear your skin or even remove facial acne scars, you should know that you have options. Before opting for any particular treatment you need to understand what makes an acne treatment effective so that you can achieve your goal of preventing further acne scar formation.It has been established that the primary sources of acne are biological. Commencing in puberty, the skin cells in facial hair follicles tend to shed, and the skin’s natural creation of oils is expanded. The final result of these changes is hair follicles becoming blocked and acne appearing on the skin, which can often result in facial acne scars for which treatment may be appropriate. The severity of the acne that results appears to be highly influenced by genetics, as youths whose parents also had severe acne have been demonstrated to be much more likely to have a similar facial acne scar problem. Fortunately cosmetic surgeons have made impressive advances in treatment of acne and can often provide services to help reduce many types of facial acne scars and even provide facial acne scar removal services if they are appropriate to a given case.There are exacerbating factors that contribute to acne including some types of medication. However, although oily skin and a fatty diet are popularly believed to be major causes of acne the truth is that evidence suggests there is little reality to this popular belief. There has been little or no connection found between diet and facial acne scars, though a healthy diet does generally improve overall health and this may help to clear up skin a little as a side effect this connection is weak. Oily skin on its own is more a symptom of the deeper sources of acne than a cause itself, even more, heavy efforts to get rid of oil with strong abrasives might actually damage skin causing worse acne which can then cause facial acne scars. Stress is another popularly believed source of acne, and though there is a little evidence that does suggest that stress may worsen acne problems, it seems unlikely to be a primary cause.Acne is usually a passing condition and generally improves as we grow older, however, severe acne can leave facial acne scars. Fortunately a cosmetic surgeon can provide a variety of services that may include more intensive treatments like laser skin surfacing, filler injections and chemical peels that have been shown to be fairly effective at treating bad facial acne scars.
Danielle Staub from the Real Housewives of New Jersey receives Botox treatment at Epione Beverly Hills
This text will be replaced
Danielle Staub, formerly of Bravo’s Real Housewives of New Jersey, now star of a new VH1 reality show, visits Epione Medical Corporation located in Beverly Hills, CA. Simon Ourian™, M.D. treats Danielle’s wrinkles with a Botox treatment. Danielle indicates that there’s no discomfort and praises Dr. Ourian’s technique.
Do You Hate Your Acne Scars?
It does not seem fair does it? You suffered through your youth doing battle with acne like so many of us have, and when you finally reach an age where your hormones have stabilized and your acne has subsided you find yourself left with permanent reminders of a period of your life you would almost certainly prefer to just forget. Acne scars are unsightly and unfortunate, but they are also all too common. If you thought you were going to have to simply learn to accept the fact that every time you looked in a mirror you would see acne scars you are wrong. Epione of Beverly Hills has made remarkable breakthroughs in cosmetic procedures that can reduce and even eliminate acne scars on your face.Acne scars vary greatly from person to person and that is why Epione of Beverly Hills provides a wide variety of treatments for acne scars, so that you can be certain that the treatment you are receiving is appropriate for you. Whether you are a man or woman, and no matter your age, there is help available, contact us at Epione of Beverly Hills and schedule an appointment for a private consultation with our doctors and start finding out just how quickly and easily you could be free of the acne scars that hide the person you really are.Acne scars are among the most common skin conditions affecting people around the world, and by their nature they occur predominately on your face, the area of skin most regularly seen, and the area most likely to provoke a response. The simple truth is that we humans cannot help but make snap judgments about people when we see their physical appearance. We are genetically programmed to look for signs of illness or disability because we do not want to become ill or pass a disability on to our offspring. This means that even the kindest of us has an immediate and subconscious reaction when they see a face with disfiguring marks on it, and that is a reaction that those of us with acne scars have become accustomed to and have to constantly fight to overcome.So why put yourself at a disadvantage in a world where so many odds are already stacked against you? Take advantage of the opportunities that Epione of Beverly Hills can provide you to reduce or eliminate your acne scars and start living your life with the casual confidence that comes along with knowing that your skin is clear smooth and natural looking. There is no reason why the plague that visits us all starting in puberty has to continue to hold you in its grips when you have grown into an adult. Call us at Epione of Beverly Hills to schedule an appointment for a private consultation with our doctors and finally find out what it feels like to be free of your acne scars, not matter how mild or severe they are, they can always be better.
Would You Like To Get Fuller Lips?
Many people are born with thin lips, while others find that as they age their once fuller lips seem to deflate with the passing of time. These conditions have resulted in many people seeking treatment to get fuller lips. The most popular option to get fuller lips is the use of one of several injectable fillers. By educating yourself online you can learn about the various types of injectable fillers and by speaking with a doctor you can have any remaining concerns addressed. This article should serve only as a basic overview of options you have available to get fuller lips.At a most basic level lip augmentation is the enlargement of one or both of the lips through the use of either a cosmetic facial filler, a transfer of fat, or in some cases lip implants. This article will concern itself primarily with the multitude of fillers available.Human based collagen treatments are a popular option as they are derived from naturally occurring substance in the body, and are, as a result, less likely to cause negative side effects in your effort to get fuller lips. Human based collagen fillers are compatible with your body, but as a result will naturally be absorbed with your body over time meaning that in order to get fuller lips you will have to return for treatments multiple times. It is important to note that when you opt for a human based collagen injection the target lip area is typically overfilled initially. This is because a large amount of collagen will be absorbed in a short period of time following the injection and you should be prepared for your lips to appear swollen. However, if you elect to continue with collagen treatments over time, you can expect more and more of the collagen to remain in the lip area and not be absorbed which will help you get fuller lips for longer lasting periods of time. You may also opt for a bovine based collagen injection which is generally safe, but requires an allergy test.Hyaluronic acid derived lip augmentation has become an increasingly popular method to get fuller lips. It is also derived from a substance that occurs naturally in the body and has a low risk of negative side effects as a result. Hyaluronic acid also has the advantage of lasting longer than collagen injections and has properties that can actually improve the health of the lips by promoting the flow of moisture and nutrients to the tissue that it is in contact with.A fat transfer augmentation uses fat from another part of your own body and as a result has one of the lowest risks associated with any injectable filler. Different techniques are employed to transfer the fat and the length of the effect will depend on the technique employed so discuss these options with your doctor when you are looking to get fuller lips.Generally lip augmentation has a low risk of side effects most commonly including swelling and discomfort in the injection location that usually passes in a short amount of time. You should speak to a doctor to get a full understanding of the risks and limitations of any procedure you find appealing.
Facial Wrinkle Removal: Getting Rid Of Facial Wrinkles
Facial wrinkles are a natural and dominant symptom of aging and can occur anywhere on the face from the forehead, around the eyes, around the mouth, or elsewhere. Depending on where your wrinkles are will say a lot about the options you have when considering facial wrinkle removal. Also of primary concern will be how severe your wrinkles are, as some procedures are better than others at more profound wrinkles. Above all you should be aware that wrinkles are not a health threatening condition, and when making your decision whether or not to undergo facial wrinkle removal you should keep this fact in mind.If you are only beginning to see the appearance of wrinkles your best option may be one that is aimed primarily at preventing the formation of wrinkles. Botox is an excellent option for this sort of condition since it is generally considered low risk and works by relaxing the muscles of the face that will hold the skin in to the shape that results in wrinkles, Botox could help you avoid wrinkles before they ever show up. If your wrinkles are more established you may opt for one of many injectable fillers. Many injectable fillers on the market today are manufactured from substances that occur naturally in the human body, and as such carry a low risk of side effects when used for facial wrinkle removal. Injectable fillers like Juvéderm, made of hyaluronic acid may actually help improve the health of the skin into which they are injected by promoting the flow of nutrients and moisture to that area thus providing greater benefits that simple facial wrinkle removal.Alternatively surgical options like a face or eye lift are proven methods of facial wrinkle removal and may be a good option particularly if your wrinkles are due primarily to the sagging skin that so commonly comes with advanced age. Whatever option you are considering for facial wrinkle removal the first thing you should do is gather as much information on the various procedures you are considering so that you can obtain a reasonable and realistic expectation of the results and limitations that you can achieve through facial wrinkle removal. This will prove in valuable to you when you meet with a doctor to determine what sort of facial wrinkle removal is appropriate for you, if any is appropriate at all.Individuals seeking to improve the fine lines around the mouth and eyes have discovered that Coolaser offered exclusively at Epione can be a highly viable non-surgical treatment option.When you do meet with a doctor you should have an open and frank discussion about your goals and concerns so that the doctor can help you to select an appropriate course of action concerning facial wrinkle removal. The nature of your procedure will vary according to the option you choose. Botox injections, and most injectable fillers can be administered in a single session, and you can generally return home immediately afterwards to resume normal life actions. Surgeries like a facelift will come with a longer healing period and more intensive post facial wrinkle removal care. You should take care to listen carefully to your doctor considering healing care.
Acne Scars: Information About Reducing The Appearance Of Acne Scars
Acne most often occurs when sebaceous glands are overactive and generate too much oil which can then plug hair follicles in your skin. There is no absolutely perfect answer as to just why acne scars occur more often in some people than others, but it is well established that a number of factors including genetics, the environment, your lifestyle, and skin healthcare maintenance play a role. If you have had problems with acne in the past or are perhaps suffering from acne currently and would like to clear your skin or even remove facial acne scars, you should know that you have options. Before opting for any particular treatment you need to understand what makes an acne treatment effective so that you can achieve your goal of preventing further acne scar formation.It has been well established that the most important sources of acne are biological in nature. Appearing first in puberty, the skin cells of the facial hair follicles tend to shed very heavily, and the skin’s natural creation of oils is greatly expanded. The end result of these changes is that the hair follicles become blocked and allow acne to begin appearing on the skin, which can occasionally result in facial acne scars for which treatment may be appropriate. The severity of the acne that occurs seems to be dominantly controlled by genetics, as young people entering puberty whose parents also had severe acne when they were younger have been shown to be much more likely to have a similar facial acne scar problem in comparison with other people. Fortunately cosmetic doctors have made very impressive advances in the treatment of acne scars and can almost always provide services to help reduce many types of acne scars and may provide facial acne scar removal services if they are likely to be effective in a given case.There are several exacerbating factors that regularly contribute to the formation of acne including some types of medication. However, although, as a result of years of folk wisdom, oily skin and a fatty diet are popularly believed to be the dominant sources of acne the fact is that evidence suggests there is almost no reality to this popularly held belief. Oily skin in and of itself is best considered a symptom of the deeper real sources of acne than as a cause itself, and what is worse, heavy efforts to get rid of oil in the skin as with strong abrasives may actually damage your skin and cause worse acne which can then cause worse facial acne scars.Fortunately, acne is usually a passing condition and can be expected to improve as we grow older, unfortunately, severe acne can and will leave facial acne scars. In these cases your only hope is a cosmetic doctor who can provide a variety of services aimed at reducing the appearance of acne scars that may include treatments like a laser skin surfacing treatment, filler injections and, less often these days, a chemical peel that has been shown to be effective at reducing acne scars.
Treatment For Scars on Skin
Scarring can result from any number of sources. Injuries are the most common source of scarring and there are very few people who manage to escape childhood without a scar somewhere. Very often children trip and fall, and scars on the chin are one of the most common reasons that people seek treatment for scars on skin.Historically there was very little that could be done in terms of treatment for scars on skin. Severe scarring could sometimes be reduced by surgically removing a piece of the scar tissue and closing the surrounding skin around it. Later chemical peels became an increasingly popular choice for treatment for scars on skin. Chemical peels work by eating away at the outer layer of the scar resulting in a smoother texture that more closely resembles the surrounding skin. With advances in modern technology newer even more effective options have become available for the treatment of scars on skin. Many cosmetic surgeons are successfully using laser technology to treat scar tissue with a great deal of precision. Laser treatments have a major advantage over most earlier treatments for scars on skin in that they have a low impact on the patient and a generally low risk of complications. This means that laser treatments may often be employed safely for treatment for scars on skin in patients of almost any age, and in patients they may have other health issues which would preclude them from seeking some other treatment for the scars on their skin.Scars on the skin almost never pose a health risk on their own, which means that most treatments for scars on skin will be considered an elective surgery and may not be covered by an insurance plan. These two items should be taken into consideration when you are determining whether or not a treatment is appropriate for your condition. If you do decide that you want to pursue a treatment for your scars then you should make your decision based primarily on the qualification and experience of the physicians available in your area. Be careful about any doctor who advertises their services as being cheaper than their competitors as you do not want to put your health, indeed, your very physical appearance in the hands of a doctor that you do not fully trust to do the best work for you that is possible. And always remember that no matter what sort of treatment you may elect to pursue to treat the scars on your skin, the single most important thing you can do is educate yourself about your condition, about the procedures that are available to treat it, and about the care that you will need to take both before and after your treatment in order to guarantee that you get the best result possible. The best candidates for treatments to remove scars are those that are emotionally and physically healthy with a reasonable and realistic idea of what treatments for scars on the skin will be able to achieve for them.
Stretch Marks: Understanding The Options You Have
The cause of stretch marks is not entirely understood, but generally stretch marks appear during periods of rapid growth, weight gain, or pregnancy which indicates that when areas of skin are put under increased pressure these stretch marks are a common result. Some people seem to be much more prone to stretch marks than others, and this couple with a history of stretch marks in a family indicates that there is a genetic factor to stretch marks. For practical purposes, a stretch mark is similar in nature to scar tissue, and can be treated in many of the same ways with the same cosmetic procedures.Stretch marks do not generally pose any sort of health risk, and you should consider this before opting for any cosmetic procedures to reduce or remove your stretch marks. If you do wish to go forward with a cosmetic procedure to remove or reduce your stretch marks you should know that there are a wide variety of options available to you. Depending on the severity of your stretch marks you may opt for more or less invasive procedures to deal with your conditions. Many stretch marks will fade over time, and require little or no treatment. For this reason you may want to wait for a certain amount of time before you choose to undergo a cosmetic procedure to deal with your stretch marks.Minor stretch marks are often treated with topical creams that can reduce the appearance of a stretch mark to a negligible level. Modern advances in medical technology particularly involving the development of laser technology have created a myriad of more intensive options for dealing with more severe stretch marks, laser treatment may be appropriate for you depending on the severity of your stretch marks. Simon Ourian™ MD, is the Medical Director of Epione Medical Corporation of Los Angeles, and has revolutionized the treatment of stretch marks with the development of Coolbeam Laser Treatments.The best way to determine if you would be a good candidate for a cosmetic procedure to address your stretch marks is to educate yourself about available treatment options. By doing so you will be able to compare your stretch marks to those of other people who have undergone cosmetic procedures. This should give you a good idea about the limitations and benefits of the different treatment options that you have available. Most importantly you will be able to have realistic and reasonable expectations of the sort of results that various cosmetic procedures will achieve for you.Once you have taken steps to educate yourself about the different options available you should then make an effort to speak with a doctor so that you can have any remaining concerns and questions addressed. A doctor will also be able to help you determine what if any sort of cosmetic procedure would be appropriate for you depending on the condition of your stretch marks. Costs and time expenditure will vary depending on which option you select for treating your stretch marks, but most laser treatments take between 15 minutes an and hour, and you can generally return home immediately afterwards.
Wrinkle Removal: Which Option Is Best For You?
Wrinkles are among the most natural and dominant symptoms of aging everywhere on the face from the forehead, around the eyes, around the mouth, and also elsewhere on the body. Just where your wrinkles are will dominate the conversation about the options you have before you when you find yourself considering wrinkle removal. Also of huge concern is just how severe your wrinkles are, as most procedures are better than others at dealing with a specific sort of wrinkle. A conversation with a cosmetic doctor should be invaluable in resolving this issue. Above all, in your evaluations you should be aware that wrinkles are never a health threatening condition, and when you are making your decision of whether or not to submit to wrinkle removal you should keep this fact at the front of your mind.If you are in your thirties or forties and are just beginning to see the evidence of wrinkles your best choice is probably one that is aimed mostly at slowing or preventing the formation of wrinkles. Botox is a popular choice for achieving a preventative goal like this since it is low risk and works by relaxing the muscles of the face that will pull the skin of the face into the positions that result in the formation of wrinkles, Botox could help you avoid wrinkles before you ever have to see them. On the other hand, if your wrinkles are more firmly established you may opt for one of the many new injectable fillers available for this sort of problem. Most injectable fillers on the market currently are made out of substances that appear naturally in the human body, and, being natural, carry a very low risk of complications when used for wrinkle removal. An injectable filler such as Juvéderm, made of hyaluronic acid, for example may actually work to improve the health of the skin that they are injected into by promoting the transmission of nutrients and moisture to that area of your skin. This results in a bonus of greater benefit than simple wrinkle removal.If these options do not sound good to you, alternative surgical options like a face or eye lift have been proven methods of wrinkle removal employed for many years and may be a particularly solid option if your wrinkles are resulting mostly from the sagging skin that is a predominant feature coming with advanced age. Whichever option you are most considering for your own wrinkle removal the first step you should take is to gather as much information on the variety of procedures you have available for consideration so that you can achieve a reasonable and realistic expectation of the results and limitations that you will be able to achieve through the means of a wrinkle removal. This will prove invaluable to you when you do meet with a cosmetic doctor in order to determine what sort of wrinkle removal is most appropriate for you.
Why More Women are Choosing OptiLipo over Liposuction

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — For many years, liposuction has been a popular choice for women who want to target problem areas and achieve a slimmer, smoother and firmer appearance. However, the procedure is not without its drawbacks, posing health dangers to some and short-lived results for others. To combat many of the ‘cons’ of liposuction, Epione Medical Corporation, a state-of-the-art aesthetic surgery center, now offers OptiLipo, a revolutionary alternative to liposuction. The procedure may successfully flush fat, block the ability to store fat and achieve long-lasting results, among other benefits.“At Epione, we offer the latest and most progressive technology and aesthetic procedures in order to help out clients achieve the results they want, and look and feel better than ever before,” said Dr. Simon Ourian™, medical director. “OptiLipo has quickly become the premier choice for women wanting to get rid of excess fat and cellulite without undergoing anesthesia or having to worry about future weight gain.”
Revolutionary OptiLipo Treatment Flushes Fat, Fights Cellulite and Post-Treatment Weight Gain and Achieves a Smoother, Firmer Skin Surface
During the OptiLipo procedure, problem areas are injected with microscopic quantities of natural plant extracts, homeopathic, pharmaceutical agents and vitamins. The procedure targets fat reduction in desired areas, flushes the fat out and over the course of several sessions, blocks the body’s ability to store fat in those areas, while simultaneously stimulating the body’s ability to burn fat.OptiLipo offers a number of benefits that liposuction does not:
- OptiLipo is non-surgical procedure that does not require anesthesia, posing far less health dangers than liposuction.
- OptiLipo achieves a smoother skin surface, and does not enhance preexisting cellulite, which often occurs with liposuction.
- No extensive medical evaluations or elaborate laboratory data is required prior to undergoing the OptiLipo procedure.
On average, based on the patient’s condition, results can be seen in two to three sessions. Some patients will see immediate results. Treatments are minimally invasive and recovery is immediate.In addition to electing for OptiLipo as an alternative to liposuction, the treatment may also effective for aging skin, redundant or sagging skin, hand rejuvenation and neck rejuvenation.“OptiLipo is one of the most popular procedures for women who want to reverse the signs of aging, regain a more youthful appearance and look fantastic in their clothes and swimwear,” said Dr. Ourian™. “Schedule a consultation and let’s discuss how OptiLipo can help you get amazing results.”For more information about OptiLipo, or other non-surgical aesthetic treatments offered by Epione Medical Corporation, please call 310.598.2345.
New Coolaser Treatment Reduces Acne Scars and Boosts Patients’ Confidence
BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. — Epione Medical Corporation now offers a solution for the millions of adults and adolescents suffering from the devastating effects of acne scars. The practice’s revolutionary new Coolaser treatment uses advanced laser technology to resurface the skin and reduce the appearance of acne scars. Finally, patients can put their best face forward after years of embarrassment.“Severe acne cases can leave unsightly and embarrassing scars, pitting and skin unevenness that can remain for a lifetime,” said Dr. Simon Ourian™, medical director. “While acne scars often vary greatly in shape, type and color, Coolaser resurfacing has proved effective in varying cases and has helped patients finally feel good about their skin.”
Epione’s New Coolaser Treatment Shows Remarkable Success in Diminishing Acne Scars and Pitting
The Coolaser treatment, typically an hour long, uses lasers to remove the outermost layer of the skin. First, the entire face is numbed, using a topical cream.After this is done, a series of light pulses are flashed on the surface of the skin. The skin cells absorb the energy of the light, which causes the instantaneous vaporization of the superficial cells and results in a smoother, clearer and more even skin tone.Though healing takes 10 to 12 days, a significant percent improvement in the appearance of the scars may be expected, depending on the type and extent of scarring. A single session may not treat the acne scars entirely if they are too deep. These deeper acne scars can be corrected by injections under the skin to fill in or build up the pitted areas. The injections are done with fillers such as Radiesse, Juvéderm or Restylane.At the initial consultation appointment Dr. Ourian™ will determine if Coolaser resurfacing alone will treat the acne scars, or if a combination of resurfacing and fillers are needed. For more information about Acne skin treatments and other aesthetic services available at Epione Beverly Hills visit please call 310.598.2345.
Epione Investigates Natural Breast Augmentation: Making Good Use of Bad Fat
Much as many women may lament the amount of fat in their bodies, there's one place where not enough fat is sure to cause worries and woes: the breasts. Fat is the most important element in the size and shape of a woman's breasts, and without the breast size and shape they desire, many women begin to look into augmentation procedures.But is there perhaps a way to use one worry to resolve the other—a way to take excess fat from one part of a woman's body and use it to enhance her breasts?Dr. Simon Ourian™, Medical Director of Epione Beverly Hills, is investigating just such an innovative procedure that is making headlines throughout the medical community.The process involves transferring fat from one part of the body into the breasts. As one might expect, the procedure begins with liposuction. Liposuction using lasers almost always renders the fat unusable for transfer, while types that use ultrasound energy and pressurized water leave the fat ready for reuse elsewhere in the body.One would naturally ask: is this procedure safe?Naturally, many of the concerns that come from traditional implants, such as silicone, won’t occur with the fat transfer procedure. For example, as this augmentation is composed of body fat actually integrated into the existing tissue, one needn't worry about the augmentation material rupturing. Also, as the augmentation is derived from the body's own cells, there's no risk of the body rejecting it.That being said, Dr, Ourian™ is aware of the only recently lifted ban on using fat transfer for breast augmentation which raise valid questions concerning the safety of the procedure.One concern includes the worry that the fat injected into the breast could cause calcification to occur creating a physical barrier to the accuracy of standard mammography tests. The medical community has not reached a consensus on this question, but a large number of doctors have responded with overwhelming approval of the procedure, especially as compared to traditional implant augmentation. As one doctor reported, new digital mammograms can easily identify calcification in the breasts, thus the mammogram is hardly impaired. Plus, when compared with the consequences of traditional implant augmentation, which block more than half the breast from the view of the mammogram, fat transfer augmentation begins to appear as a potentially safer alternative.Another valid concern is whether or not enough of the fat transferred from one part of the body into the breasts will survive to call the procedure a success. Much like the first concern, there has not been an absolute consensus across the medical community about this question, but a large number of doctors agree that the likelihood of the fat surviving largely depends on the techniques used to acquire and then transfer the fat.Thus, if the doctor uses the old, banned techniques, one can expect that a large percentage of the fat transferred will not survive and a second procedure will be required. Conversely, if the doctor uses the new techniques, one can expect 85-90% of the transferred fat to survive. If the doctor also implements new stem cell techniques, the transfer becomes even more effective.
Tummy Tuck Scar Revision
Tummy tuck scar revision is becoming more frequent. One of the most common side effects of having a tummy tuck (also called an abdominoplasty) is scarring. This is especially true if someone undergoes a full abdominoplasty, which will create a scar from hip to hip. Most of the time, the incision scar is hidden below the bikini line. For some people, though, the complete desired effect of having a tummy tuck is not complete until a tummy tuck scar revision procedure is performed to minimize the look of the scar. Like most types of scar revision, tummy tuck scar revision makes use of a variety of cosmetic and surgical techniques. All of these techniques are designed to hide the scar in a better location, even out the color and smoothness of the skin at the incision site, eliminate as much of the scar as possible.One of the more frequent tummy tuck scar revision methods used is chemical peel. The technique is designed to dissolve excess scar tissue through a chemical process. The procedure is also effective in evening out color in the surrounding skin.Steroid injections and filler are also an effective tummy tuck scar revision method. Steroid injection can help to reduce the size of scars. filler injection can help to smooth out the contour of scars. Laser scar revision for tummy tucks has really gained popularity in recent years. The technique makes use of laser light to burn away small layers of the scar tissue. Laser surgery is very precise, so it’s less likely to cause any damage to surrounding tissue. Laser revision is also good at evening out the color of scar tissue. The procedure is considered very safe and patients experience very few side effects after surgery.Tummy tuck scar revision may ultimately require surgery. This is very true for deep, large scars. If scar tissue develops abnormally, you might also need to consider a surgical option. Surgical tummy tuck scar revision makes use of state of the art micro surgery techniques, flap revision techniques, and multi layer closing procedures to eliminate deep scars, to cause tissue to heal normally, and even to move scars to new locations, to make them less obvious. As you might expect, having a secondary surgery will be a more expensive option, but it might be the only real option. You will need to consult with the person who did your original tummy tuck, to see what option might work best for you.The surgeon who performed your tummy tuck might not feel qualified to do the tummy tuck scar revision, so they might refer you on. But starting your evaluation with a follow up visit to your tummy tuck surgeon makes a lot of sense.
Should Your Teen Should Get Plastic Surgery?
Lisa Kudrow and Tori Spelling had nose jobs at 16. 17 year old Britney Spears, with mom’s permission, got breast implants. When teens see celebrity peers getting plastic surgery, they may decide that their own looks need improving. Some, like Ashley Tisdale and Soleil Moon Frye, may need surgery for medical reasons, but most teen surgery is cosmetic, not corrective in nature.Teens only make up 2 percent of cosmetic surgery patients in the U.S., but according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the number is getting larger. In 2008, 81,885 invasive surgeries were done on teens, ages 13–19, while 219,136 received minimally invasive treatment. Many people think that the average teen requesting this is probably spoiled, rich and overly obsessed with image, but not all fall into that category. The reasons for plastic surgery can vary depending on the circumstances.
Reasons to Avoid the Knife
Teens, being who they are, desire plastic surgery in order to fit in with their friends. They may feel that having bigger breasts or a more defined chin may finally give them the popularity they have always dreamed of. Of course, this is not always the case, and when it fails to change their social lives, they can be devastated.Unfortunately, there are other surgeons who are perfectly willing to do surgery on a teen without screening them first. Parents, too, are occasionally to blame; they may want “the perfect child” and insist that the surgery be done.Because of this, a good surgeon will carefully interview a candidate to make sure they are emotionally stable enough to handle the surgery. The surgeon must also be sure the teen’s expectations are realistic and their motives are correct. Teens with body dysmorphic disorder may not be good candidates; these patients will focus on a specific flaw or other defect (real or imagined), and convince themselves that surgery is the only way to treat it. This condition is best handled by a psychologist or other mental health care professional.
Procedures to Skip
There are a number of procedures that teenagers should avoid. Breast enhancement, in particular with saline implants, is one. This is because the body may not yet be done developing, and the general rule is that the patient must be at least 18. There are a few exceptions, such as birth defects, trauma or diseases that may require breast reconstruction. Silicone can be used for reconstruction purposes by women of all ages, but is limited to 22 and older for enhancement.Since teens often lose baby fat with age, liposuction is not recommended. For teens that have a problem losing weight with just diet and exercise alone, however, it can be used for spot reduction purposes. It should not be used to treat obesity as a whole and is most definitely not a substitute for diet and exercise.
Procedures to Consider
Rhinoplasty can be a suitable procedure for certain candidates. Broken or deformed noses can be fixed by this procedure. Breast reductions are also popular; in Soleil Moon Frye’s case, her large breasts were causing her back and shoulder pain, as well as breathing problems. Microdermabrasion and chemical peels can help teens with severe acne and skin irregularities, and laser hair removal can help those with excessive hair.
Five Important Questions to Ask When Considering Surgery for Your Child
- Who truly wants the surgery? The teenager must be the one who desires it most; after all, they are the ones who must live with the results. Parents, peers and significant others can offer advice, but they must not pressure the patient into making a decision.
- Is your child emotionally and mentally mature? A good surgeon will want to be sure the patient understands the process and what will take place before, during and after surgery.
- How well does your child handle pain and follow directions? The recovery process can be long, painful and draining. As a parent, you can only do so much; your child must be able to handle the rest on their own.
- Does the child have a realistic outlook on the results? Make sure your child knows that their lives will not radically change after undergoing surgery.
- Is your child physically mature? Depending on the surgery, this could play a huge role. Breast reductions can be done on patients as young as 15, while other surgeries may have to wait until the child is older.
Is the Recession Over?
One can certainly come to that conclusion after reviewing these 2008 statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).12.1 million total cosmetic procedures were performed that year, with the most popular surgical procedures being breast augmentation, eyelid surgery, liposuction, nose reshaping, and tummy tucks. Cosmetic minimally invasive procedures that were also very popular include Botox, chemical peels, laser hair removal, microdermabrasion, and hyaluronic acid injections (Restylane and Juvederm are two examples of this). Anti-cellulite treatment and laser treatment of leg veins were also part of the list.Gender wise, women preferred breast augmentation, liposuction and nose reshaping, followed by eyelid surgery and tummy tucks. Their favorite minimally invasive procedures were Botox, chemical peels, laser hair removal, hyaluronic acid injections, and microdermabrasion.Men, on the other hand, had their own preferences. For surgical procedures, their top five were nose reshaping, eyelid surgery, liposuction, breast reduction, and hair transplants. For non-surgical procedures, men underwent Botox treatments, laser hair removal, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and laser skin resurfacing.Plastic surgery for Hispanics and other people of color increased by 11 percent. The surgery of choice was nose reshaping across the board, with liposuction and breast reduction a popular choice for both Hispanics and African Americans. Asian Americans chose eyelid surgery and breast augmentation. Minimally invasive procedures were the same for all ethnic groups—Botox, injectable fillers, and chemical peels.There is a marked difference between these statistics from the ASPS and those from the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS). ASPS includes dermatology doctors and otolaryngologists in their surveys, and also includes reconstructive surgeries in their report. ASAPS does neither of these. As a result, ASAPS’ numbers paint a somewhat less optimistic picture.There are also many procedures that have increased in popularity. These are:
- Dermabrasion. While microdermabrasion uses a light spray of crystals to abrade the skin gently, a wire brush or a diamond wheel is used in dermabrasion to remove the upper layers of skin. As it heals, new skin replaces the old skin. There is a great deal more bleeding with dermabrasion, and it is more traumatic to the skin, but it is also can be effective at removing deep scars and wrinkles.
- Pectoral (chest) implants. These increase the size and shape of a man’s chest muscles.
- Cheek implants. These help reshape or replace cheekbones.
- Buttock lifts. These tighten sagging skin on the buttocks, hips and thighs, making the skin look younger and more attractive.
Reconstructive surgeries that increased the most included the following:
- Breast reconstruction, often done to reshape the breast.
- Birth defect reconstruction, which can include repairing cleft palates.
- Hand surgery.
- Scar revision.
- Burn care.
These experienced a three percent increase from 2007’s statistics.






