Which Brand of Breast Implants is Best?

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Is One Brand of Breast Implants Better Than Others?

There are several brands of FDA approved breast implants available on the market in the United States. These include the two biggest breast implant manufacturers – Allergan and Mentor – who produce both saline and silicone implants. There are also several smaller breast implant companies – like Sientra and Motiva – that only sell silicone breast implants.

Thanks to decades of ongoing research and significant scientific advancements in breast implant materials and design, today’s generation of FDA-approved breast implants are among the safest and most well-tested medical devices on the market.

But if you are considering breast augmentation surgery, it is natural to wonder if one brand “looks better” or is safer than another. After considerable research and decades of experience, renowned breast augmentation surgeon Dr. Ali at AMAE Plastic Surgery in Birmingham, MI chooses to use Mentor breast implants.  In this article, he explains why Mentor is his choice for safe, beautiful, natural looking breast implants.

All breast implant brands offer a very similar array of sizes and profiles. The materials are also similar but not identical – which is where we get into some differences. However, the reality is that no one will be able to tell which “brand” of breast implants you have just by looking at you.

Of course, the most important factor in achieving beautiful, natural, safe breast implant results is choosing the best breast augmentation surgeon. No matter how good the implants are themselves, an inexperienced or unskilled surgeon will not achieve the placement, symmetry, and hidden scars that a renowned plastic surgeon like Dr. Ali at AMAE Plastic Surgery in Birmingham, MI will create.

That being said, let’s take a look at why Dr. Ali chooses Mentor breast implants for breast augmentation surgery.

Mentor vs. Allegan Breast Implants

Allergan, the largest producer of breast implants, also manufactures many injectables including BOTOX and Juvéderm, and a wide range of non-aesthetic medical devices, as well as the skincare line SkinMedica.  Mentor, on the other hand, is highly specialized and only manufactures breast implants and breast tissue expanders.

Allergan was founded in 2015. Then in 2016, Allergan sold its generic business, Actavis, to Teva Pharmaceuticals. Then in June 2019, the huge U.S. pharmaceutical conglomerate AbbVie announced it had reached an agreement to acquire Allergan for $63 billion.

Mentor, however, has operated continuously under the same name for thirty years, and all Mentor implants sold to the US market are made in the USA.

Many plastic surgeons also favor the Mentor brand of breast implants because they appreciate the level of customer service and technical support provided to medical practices and patients.

Mentor Breast Implants

Mentor offers silicone breast implants under the brand names MemoryGel, MemoryGel Xtra, and MemoryShape, in addition to offering saline implants, including the SPECTRUM implant. Dr. Ali can show you actual implants and discuss their features and differences to help you decide which model is right for your aesthetic goals.

Mentor breast implants are also coated with a special silicone elastomer shell to help reduce the risk of complications such as leakage or rupture.

Here are some of the types and features of Mentor breast implants:

  • Breast Implant Shape

Mentor breast implants are available in two basic shapes, round and anatomic (teardrop). The appropriate shape for you will depend on your individual goals and the recommendations of your surgeon.

  • Breast Implant Size

Mentor breast implants are available in an extremely wide range of sizes to suit the individual needs of patients. The appropriate size for you will depend on your desired volume and your body size or frame.

  • Breast Implant Texture

Mentor breast implants are available in two textures, smooth and textured. Smooth breast implants are more ‘slippery’ and are designed to move naturally within the breast pocket. Textured breast implants have a rough surface that is designed to help the implant stay in place and reduce the risk of complications such as rippling, contracture, or implant displacement.

  • Breast Implant Profile

The profile of an implant refers to how far it projects from the chest wall. Mentor breast implants are available in three profiles, low, moderate, and high. The best breast implant profile for you will depend on your desired appearance – from natural and subtle to super sexy – as well as your body size.

Types of Mentor Breast Implants

  • MemoryShape® Breast Implants

Mentor MemoryShape® Breast Implants have a tapered shape that provides more projection at the lower pole, offering maximum projection where desired. This is sometimes called a teardrop breast implant. MemoryShape® Breast Implants offer a natural breast appearance. And they have been proven to retain shape and projection over time.1

Additionally, MemoryShape Breast Implants are made with SILTEX™ Texture, which has been proven to reduce complications. In fact, Mentor MemoryShape® Breast Implants have the lowest reported risk of key complications in primary breast augmentation at 10 years after surgery!

  • MemoryGel BOOST™ Breast Implants

MemoryGel® Breast Implants have been used in over 6,000,000 breast implant surgeries worldwide. They offer the natural feel that patients desire, but with more “roundness” that gives them a higher “profile”.  MemoryGel BOOST™ Breast Implants are available in “Moderate Plus” and “High” profiles.

  • MemoryGel®  Xtra Breast Implants

MemoryGel® Xtra Breast Implants also offer the natural feel that patients desire, but with more “roundness” but with additional benefits in three profile options – “Moderate Plus”, “Moderate High” and “High”. You might say MemoryGel® Xtra offers the most dramatic breast enhancement.

  • Mentor Saline Implants

Mentor also manufacturers the best saline implants currently on the market. These are filled with a natural saltwater solution that is more firm than gel implants, which more closely imitate the feel of body fat. while they feel less like natural breast tissue, the look can be dramatic and they are less expensive than gel implants.

Mentor saline implants offer a round shape, an all-around fuller look, firmer feel and enhanced cleavage. They come in “Moderate”, “Moderate Plus” and “High” profiles. MENTOR® Round Saline Implants also come in a SPECTRUM® Adjustable model, which are the only breast implants that can be adjusted AFTER your surgery, by allowing your plastic surgeon to add or remove saline solution months after your procedure!

Mentor Breast Implant Before & After

You can view actual patient Before & After Photos of Dr. Ali’s breast implant surgeries HERE.

Mentor also has an excellent page that allows you to search for Mentor breast implant Before & After photos by patient, age, cup size, amount of increase and type of breast implant HERE.

The best breast implant for you will depend on the extent of your current breast tissue, your frame and body type, and most importantly your desired outcome. AMAE Plastic Surgery is among the first and only plastic surgery practices in the Birmingham, MI area to offer state-of-the-art Vectra 3D imaging for breast implant patents. This revolutionary imaging system provides a three-dimensional computerized image of the patient’s breasts from any and every angle – so that Dr. Ali can show you what different breast implant sizes and shapes will look like – before you have your breast implant surgery!

Your Guide to Anesthesia During Plastic Surgery

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What to Expect  if You’re “Put Under” During Plastic Surgery

Anesthesia is the general term for the use of drugs to block pain sensations. There are two types of anesthesia used in plastic surgery “general” and “local”.

During the use of local anesthesia, the patient remains conscious – although they may also be given a medication to make them feel relaxed or sleepy. Local anesthetic induces a temporary loss of sensation in the “numbed” area, but the patient is still conscious.

General anesthesia refers to drugs that “knock out” the patient, inducing sleep or amnesia, preventing any awareness during surgery, and stopping the patient from feeling any pain.

Today, many plastic surgeries can be performed with advanced, minimally invasive techniques – so only local anesthetic is needed. However, more complex, or more invasive plastic surgery procedures still require the use of general anesthesia.

Local Anesthetic for Plastic Surgery

Local anesthetics are most often administered by injection – but they can also be sprayed on or applied “topically” in cream form. This type of anesthesia blocks pain sensation to the part of the body where it has been injected. It can be used on any part of the body, including face, neck, limbs, buttocks, breast, back and abdomen.

Depending on the type of local anesthetic it may take up to twenty minutes or longer to fully take effect. So there may be some waiting during the pre-op period. During this time the patient may also be given oral medications to help them relax or even sleep during their procedure.

The effects of local anesthetics can last for up to 90 minutes or longer depending on what type your plastic surgeon uses. But the patient will be conscious and know what is going on the whole time – unless they have received a sedative as well. Sometimes patients will feel sensations of pressure under local anesthetic – but they will not feel pain.

General Anesthesia for Plastic Surgery

General anesthesia is a drug that is used to make you unconscious and unable to feel pain during surgery. It also helps to reduce anxiety and stress and gives the patient amnesia (no memory) of their plastic surgery procedure.  The patient will also not remember anything about the surgery or treatment after it is completed if they are under general anesthesia.

In some cases, general anesthesia can be provided by intravenous injection of drugs into a vein (intravenous anesthesia) vein through an IV line in your arm or hand. In many cases general anesthesia is administered during plastic surgery or by inhalation from a mask placed over the nose and mouth (inhalation anesthesia), that puts the patient almost instantly to sleep.

Anesthesia can also be injected into the spinal canal (spinal anesthesia) – but this is rarely used during plastic surgery. Spinal anesthesia (“a spinal block”) is, however, commonly used during childbirth.

General anesthesia usually takes effect within 1 to 2 minutes and lasts for about 1 to 2 hours. An anesthesiologist will administer the anesthetic and continue to monitor your responses and vitals during the plastic surgery, to ensure that you “stay under” during the entire procedure. If more anesthetic is needed for a longer procedure, the anesthesiologist will administer it.

Will I Need General or Local Anesthesia During Plastic Surgery?

It is important to note that not all plastic surgeries require general anesthesia, but some do. Minimally invasive plastic surgery, such as an eyebrow lift, only requires local anesthetic. Facelifts, tummy tucks, and other plastic surgeries with larger incisions typically require general anesthesia.  Breast augmentation, may  be performed with local or general anesthesia.

Preparing Your Body for Anesthesia during Plastic Surgery

When you are about to undergo surgery, there are a number of things that you should do before the procedure. Your doctor will provide specific instructions for your surgery, but in general, you should:

1) Eat a light meal 2-3 hours before your surgery. Do not eat after that in case the anesthesia makes you nauseous.

2) Drink plenty of water on the day of your surgery. Your plastic surgeon may or may not also allow you to drink clear fluids.

3) Take any medications prescribed beforehand by your plastic surgeon, as directed. However, it is extremely important to discuss any other medications you are taking with your surgeon at your consultation to make sure they will not interact or interfere with the anesthesia.

4) Avoid caffeine on the day of your surgery. Avoid alcohol for at least two weeks before your surgery. Avoid any over the counter medications such as Nyquil, Benadryl that make you sleepy as well. And ask your doctor about any other OTC meds or supplements that you take.

5) Bring someone with you who can drive you home after your procedure.

6) Arrange for a family member or friend to stay with you for 24 hours following the procedure, just in case any rare complications arise.

Every patient is different. Patients may be confused, drowsy, “loopy”, talkative, dizzy, very quiet, or nauseous after general anesthetic. It may take them a couple hours to fully wake up and become alert. This is normal and actually beneficial, as it means that the anesthetic is still in their system numbing any pain!

For the first 24 hours after general anesthesia patients may continue to be sleepy, and their judgment, concentration and reflexes may still be affected. So, always have a responsible caregiver stay with you for at least a day after receiving general anesthesia.

Plastic Surgery | Birmingham, MI

Modern anesthesia technology is extremely safe if you work with a board-certified plastic surgeon and anesthesiologist. Do not be shy or embarrassed to ask your plastic surgeon about the type of anesthesia he will be using – and the credentials of the anesthesiologist who will be administering your general anesthesia during your plastic surgery.

Dr. Ali is a skilled and experienced Birmingham, MI board certified plastic surgeon. He will answer all of your questions about the anesthesia or anesthetic required for your plastic surgery procedure – and ensure you have a comfortable and pain free plastic surgery.

Breast Lift Techniques: Donuts, Lollipops, Crescents & Anchors!

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Which Breast Lift Surgery Technique is Best for Me?

Breast lift surgery, medically called a “mastopexy”, is a surgical procedure that is used to lift and reshape sagging breasts. There are several different methods of breast lift surgery, and the appropriate technique will depend on the individual patient’s current breast and skin condition, as well as her desired outcome.

Only a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon who specializes in breast lifts, like Dr. Ali at AMAE Plastic Surgery in Birmingham, MI, can help you decide which of the many breast lift surgery techniques will be best for you.

In this article, Birmingham, MI breast lift surgery specialist Dr. Ali explains the most common methods of breast lift surgery.

Types of Breast Lift Surgery

Breast lift surgery techniques are primarily named after the different types and placements of the incision that the plastic surgeon will use when lifting the breast. When reviewing the different breast lift surgery types, you may think you’ve stumbled unto a bakery website, as may breast lift procedures are named after incisions that have “sweet” names like donuts, lollipops, and crescents!

Crescent Breast Lift Surgery

Crescent breast lift surgery is the least invasive. This technique involves making only a small, crescent-shaped incision along the top of the areola (the round dark area surrounding the nipple).

This incision is used to lift the breasts and create a more youthful appearance. Crescent breast lift surgery is typically recommended for patients who have only mild sagging and minimal excess skin. It is popular among younger women as well as women with smaller breasts who want to fight premature signs of breast sagging.

Donut Breast Lift Surgery

Donut breast lift surgery – also known as a peri-areolar breast lift surgery – is a technique that involves making a circular incision around the areola.

This incision is used to remove excess skin and lift the breasts. Donut breast lift surgery is typically recommended for patients who have mild to moderate sagging and minimal excess skin.

Lollipop Breast Lift Surgery

Lollipop breast lift surgery – also known as a vertical breast lift – involves making a circular incision around the areola and a vertical incision down the center of the breast.

This incision is used to remove excess skin and lift the breasts. Lollipop breast lift surgery is typically recommended for patients who have moderate to severe sagging and more excess skin.

Anchor Breast Lift Surgery

Anchor breast lift surgery involves making an incision around the areola, down the center of the breast, and along the inframammary fold (the crease under the breast).

This incision can be used to remove larger amount of excess skin and lift the breasts. The procedure is typically recommended for patients who have severe sagging and a significant amount of excess skin.

Which Breast Lift Surgery Is Right for Me?

As with any plastic surgery the goal is to achieve the best possible results with the least amount of scarring. A skilled and experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. Ali at AMAE Plastic Surgery in Birmingham, MI, will have years of experience creating the finest scars that are well concealed in the body’s natural folds. However, any incision does necessarily come with some scarring.

With crescent breast lift surgery being the least invasive, and anchor breast lifts being reserved for the most extreme cases, most patients fall in the middle and elect for the donut or lollipop technique.

Because the donut breast lift incision goes perfectly around the perimeter of the areola, the scar is barely noticeable when healed. However, the lollipop breast lift uses the same circular incision around the areola, plus a vertical incision down the center of the breast. But the lollipop technique can address more severe sagging and excess skin than the donut method can.

The appropriate procedure for you will depend on the extent of your sagging and excess skin, as well as your desired outcome. AMAE Plastic Surgery is among the first and only aesthetic practices in the Birmingham, MI area to offer state-of-the-art Vectra 3D imaging for breast lift patents. This revolutionary imaging system provides a three-dimensional computerized image of the patient’s breasts from any and every angle – so that Dr. Ali can show them the expected outcomes before their breast lift surgery!

Recovery After Breast Lift Surgery

Recovery after breast lift surgery will depend on the individual patient’s age, skin condition, health, healing process, and the extent of the procedure. In general, patients can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort following the surgery. The surgeon will provide specific instructions for caring for the incision site, including how to manage any swelling or discomfort.

Most patients are able to return to work and other normal activities within a week or two after the surgery. However, it’s important to follow the surgeon’s instructions and avoid strenuous activities or heavy lifting for at least the first few weeks after the breast lift surgery. This will help ensure proper healing and prevent any complications.

The final results of the breast lift surgery may not be fully visible for several weeks or months, as the swelling and bruising gradually resolve. Dr. Ali will schedule follow-up appointments at AMAE Plastic Surgery in Birmingham, MI to monitor the healing process and ensure that the patient is recovering as expected.

 

 

Help! I Have “Dog Ears” After Tummy Tuck Surgery

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Tummy Tuck Dog Ear Revision Surgery

A tummy tuck can be a life changing operation – removing handfuls of unsightly belly fat while tightening the abdominal muscles and skin for the smooth, sexy “abs” you have always wanted! But when performed by an inexperienced surgeon – or when rare healing complications occur – the patient can be left with little flaps of skin on either side of the incision that are referred to as “dog ears.”

The good news is that “dog ears” are extremely rare after tummy tuck surgery when the procedure is performed by a skilled plastic surgeon like Dr. Ali at AMAE Plastic Surgery in Birmingham, MI. And even better news is that dog ears resulting from an inexperienced surgeon are usually easily corrected with a second, minor surgery.

What Causes “Dog Ears” After Tummy Tuck Surgery?

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves removing excess skin and fat from the abdominal area – and in some cases also tightening the muscles of the abdominal wall. The goal of the procedure is to create a smoother, firmer, and more toned abdomen.

During a tummy tuck surgery, the surgeon will make an incision along the lower abdomen, typically just above the pubic area. The incision may extend from hip to hip, depending on the extent of the surgery. After the incision is made, the skin is separated from the abdominal muscles and excess skin is removed. The abdominal muscles may also be tightened during the procedure. The skin is then pulled down and the excess is trimmed away. The remaining skin is sutured (“stitched”) together to close the incision.

But, sometimes after a tummy tuck surgery, small “dog ears” or triangular-shaped excess skin may remain at the ends of the incision. These are called “dog ears” because they resemble the pointed ears of a dog.

Dog ears can occur when the skin is not evenly pulled or correctly sutured during the procedure by the plastic surgeon. However, they can also occur if the patient had a very significant amount of excess skin or if the patient has poor skin elasticity. Failure to follow post-surgical instructions for aftercare and healing can also result in dog ears – so it is essential to follow the plastic surgeon’s post-operative instructions.

Correcting “Dog Ears” After Tummy Tuck Surgery

Dog ears can usually be corrected by a simple surgical procedure called “dog ear correction surgery”. This procedure involves making a small incision near the dog ear and removing the excess skin. The incision is then closed with sutures (“stitches”).

Dog ear correction surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis and does not require a hospital stay. It is usually done under local anesthesia, although some patients may choose to have it done under general anesthesia.

It’s important to note that dog ears are considered a normal part of the tummy tuck surgery process and can occur even in the hands of experienced surgeons. If you considering tummy tuck surgery and are concerned about the possibility of dog ears, discuss this with Dr. Ali at Dr. Ali at AMAE Plastic Surgery in Birmingham, MI before your procedure. He can provide you with more information about the likelihood of dog ears occurring in your unique situation and what can be done to minimize the risk.

Recovery After Dog Ear Tummy Tuck Surgery

Recovery after tummy tuck dog ear correction surgery will depend on the extent of the procedure and the individual patient’s healing process. In general, patients can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort following the surgery – but far less downtime and discomfort than after the tummy tuck surgery itself.

Most patients are able to return to work and other normal activities within a week. However, it’s important to follow the plastic surgeon’s instructions and avoid strenuous activities or heavy lifting for at least the first few weeks after the surgery. This will help ensure proper healing and prevent any complications.

It’s also important to keep the incision site clean and dry to prevent infection and use any special wound dressings or ointments that Dr. Ali gives you for the incision site.

The final results of the surgery may not be fully visible for several weeks while the swelling and bruising gradually resolve. The plastic surgeon will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process and ensure that the patient is recovering as expected.

Tummy Tuck Dog Ear Revision Surgery | Birmingham, MI

It’s important to remember that every patient is different and recovery after tummy tuck surgery is different for everyone.  It’s important to follow the plastic surgeon’s instructions and take good care of yourself after the surgery to ensure the best possible outcome – but in some unique cases dog ears are unavoidable after tummy tuck surgery.

However, if this occurs it is easily remedied by a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. Ali at AMAE Plastic Surgery in Birmingham, MI. If you are considering tummy tuck surgery, schedule a consultation with Dr. Ali at AMAE Plastic Surgery in Birmingham, MI, and see how you can get the body you’ve always dreamed of!

Can You Guess Which Celebs Have Had Breast Augmentation Surgery?

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Celebrities Who Have Had Breast Augmentation Surgery

Plastic surgery used to be Hollywood’s best kept secret. Up until recently, actresses and A-listers wanted everyone to believe that they were born with perfect bodies. However, today, the stigma surrounding plastic surgery has largely disappeared.

There are many celebrities who have openly admitted to getting breast augmentation surgery. And hundreds more have had breast augmentation but haven’t revealed it (yet!). In this article the breast augmentation specialists at AMAE Plastic Surgery in Birmingham, MI share a few examples of stars whose stunning figures are due to breast augmentation surgery.

Kaley Cuoco Breast Augmentation Surgery

Kaley Cuoco’s tiny frame was perfect for planning John Ritter’s teen daughter until 2003 on “Eight Simple Rules.” But in an interview with Cosmopolitan, Kaley Cuoco revealed that she had breast augmentation surgery in 2004.

Cuoco’s breast augmentation took her from skinny kid to blonde bombshell almost overnight, and in 2005, Kaley was offered a role on The WB’s “Charmed” in its eighth season – and she she didn’t have to audition! In 2007 Kael landed the role of beautiful neighbor Penny whom all of the scientists adored – and the rest is history!

Kaley Cuoco Breast Augmentation Surgery

Kaley Cuoco’s tiny frame was perfect for planning John Ritter’s teen daughter until 2003 on “Eight Simple Rules.” But in an interview with Cosmopolitan, Kaley Cuoco revealed that she had breast augmentation surgery in 2004.

Cuoco’s breast augmentation took her from skinny kid to blonde bombshell almost overnight, and in 2005, Kaley was offered a role on The WB’s “Charmed” in its eighth season – and she she didn’t have to audition! In 2007 Kael landed the role of beautiful neighbor Penny whom all of the scientists adored – and the rest is history!

Carmen Electra Breast Augmentation Surgery

In an interview with People magazine, Carmen Electra revealed that she had breast augmentation surgery in the late 1990s. In that interview, Ms. Electra said she decided to get the surgery because she was unhappy with the size of her breasts and wanted to feel more confident.

Courtney Cox Breast Augmentation Surgery

We all remember beautiful Monica from the hit TV show friends. Now compare Monica’s stunning curves to Courtney’s “tomboy” figure when she appeared in Bruce Springsteen’s 1984 “Dancing in the Dark” music video. In an interview with New Beauty Magazine, Courtney Cox revealed that she had breast augmentation surgery in the mid-1990s because she wanted to feel more feminine.

Cardi B Breast Augmentation

The extremely talented rapper and actress Cardi B has openly discussed her breast augmentation surgery, which she had in 2018. Cardi B has said that she had the surgery for personal reasons and to boost her confidence.

Kardashian Breast Augmentation

Kourtney Kardashian has always been honest about her breast implants, although she now believes 21 was too young to get them. Now age 37years old, Kourtney has never shied away from the topic of her breast implants.

In a recent episode of The Kardashians sister Khloe admitted that she’s been seriously thinking about getting breast augmentation for a “fuller” look. “When you see me in a bikini, I don’t have cleavage like my sisters [who] have this ample cleavage,” she said.

Mom Kris Jenner seemed to be fully on board with the idea of Khloe’s breast implants, even admitting that she’s interested undergoing breast augmentation herself at age 67! “Let’s do it together!” Jenner exclaimed.

More Celebrity Breast Augmentations

Spice Girl, fashion designer, style icon – and wife of sexiest man alive David Beckham –  has openly discussed her breast augmentation surgery, which she had in 1999. Beckham has said that she had the surgery to enhance her career in the entertainment industry.

In an interview with People magazine, Ashlee Simpson revealed that she had breast augmentation surgery in 2006. Simpson said she decided to get the surgery because she was unhappy with the size of her breasts. The following year singer and actress Kelly Rowland underwent breast implant surgery.

Hundreds of other actors, A-listers and influencers have had breast augmentation surgery as well – they just haven’t openly talked about!

Is Breast Augmentation for Me?

Breast augmentation surgery is a very personal decision, and every patient has their own reasons for choosing to undergo the procedure. It’s important to carefully consider all of the risks and benefits and discuss them with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. Ali at AMAE Plastic surgery in Birmingham, MI before making a decision.

AMAE Plastic Surgery is also among the first and only aesthetic practices in the Birmingham, MI area to offer state-of-the-art Vectra 3D imaging for breast augmentation patents. This revolutionary imaging system provides a three-dimensional computerized image of the patient’s breasts from any and every angle – so that Dr. Ali can show them their options and expected outcomes before their breast augmentation surgery!

Choosing a Plastic Surgeon: What is a board-certified cosmetic surgeon?

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Plastic Surgeons & Cosmetic Surgeons Are Not the Same

If you are considering plastic surgery, the first and most important step is to find a board-certified plastic surgeon who is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. This ensures that the plastic surgeon is highly trained, experienced, and employs the highest safety standards and ethical guidelines.

But choosing a plastic surgeon can be confusing – because patients will also likely find many “cosmetic surgeons” advertising their services as well. It is extremely important to understand that cosmetic surgery is not the same thing as plastic surgery.

Doctors who are certified by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS) do NOT meet the same exacting criteria required for board-certified plastic surgeons by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

In this article the experts at AMAE Plastic Surgery explain why a “board-certified cosmetic surgeon” isn’t the same as a “board-certified plastic surgeon”, and what that means when choosing who will perform your plastic surgery.

Training of Plastic Surgeons vs. Cosmetic Surgeons

A recent study was published in the online journal of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, which is the official medical journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). The researchers reviewed online information assessed the amount of medical residency training history for 342 American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS) physicians.

Shockingly, that research revealed that nearly ten percent of ABCS members were not even trained in any surgical discipline. In fact, according to that study, 62.6% of the ABCS cosmetic surgeons advertised performing surgical operations beyond the scope of their actual residency training.

Many of these ABCS-certified “cosmetic” surgeons were actually: internal medicine doctors, OBGYNs, otolaryngologists, dermatologists, and oral and maxillofacial surgeons.

And the most commonly performed cosmetic procedures performed by cosmetic doctors outside their scope of training were liposuction (59.6%), tummy tuck / abdominoplasty (50.0%), breast augmentation (49.7%), and buttock augmentation (36.5%).

This presents some rather frightening statistics about under-qualified doctors (who do not have surgical training) holding themselves out as certified “cosmetic surgeons”.

Choosing a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon

Many patients understandably assume that a board-certified cosmetic surgeon would have the same training as a board-certified plastic surgeon.  One would think that all surgeons must be board-certified in plastic surgery in order to perform cosmetic surgery procedures. But this is NOT the case.

A board-certified plastic surgeon must have at least six years of surgical training and complete an accredited plastic surgery training program. To be board-certified, a plastic surgeon must also perform thousands of cosmetic and reconstructive surgery procedures of different types, and pass demanding written and oral exams, as well as engage in continuing education and assessment throughout the rest of their career.

However, an American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS) physician is only required to complete one year of surgical training, perform 300 procedures, and take a single written and oral test during a single weekend. And there is no continuing medical education requirements to be ABCS certified.

Because of these confusing credentials, combined with misleading marketing and false advertising, patients may end up with a “cosmetic surgeon” rather than a board-certified plastic surgeon.

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon | Birmingham, MI

Dr. Ali is board certified in plastic surgery, a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and a Fellow in the American College of Surgeons. He has performed more than 7,000 cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries. He has been awarded “Top Doc” by Hour Detroit Magazine multiple years in a row. He is also a “RealSelf” Top Doc, and has a perfect 5 star rating from his patients on Yelp!, Google and Facebook.

In addition to performing thousands of breast enhancements, breast lifts, tummy tucks, liposuction, facelifts, “nose jobs”, arm lifts, “mommy makeovers,” and breast reconstructions, Dr. Ali travels worldwide on humanitarian missions every year. He volunteers his surgical services in underprivileged areas across the globe to give back smiles!

If you do your research, you will likely find that many cosmetic surgeons in the Birmingham, MI area are NOT Board Certified Plastic Surgeons! Only trust your face or body to a board-certified plastic surgeon, like Dr. Ali.

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon | Birmingham, MI: 248.335.7200

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Resources:
Emily A. Long et al. Board Certification in Cosmetic Surgery: An Evaluation of Training Backgrounds and Scope of Practice, Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (2020). DOI: 10.1097/PRS.0000000000007242

 

 

Anti-Aging: Can a Pill Actually Reverse Sun Damage?

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Anti-Aging Drug Prevents & Reverses Sun Damage

Most people know that beautiful skin starts with good nutrition and avoiding sun exposure. And individuals who are concerned with healthy skin are advised to eat right (plenty of fruits and veggies), and wear sunscreen every day! But what if a pill could help prevent skin from ageing?

While this may sound “futuristic” a new drug could be on the horizon that could prevent skin aging caused by sun exposure!

Researchers have recently identified two new molecules that generate minute amounts of the gas hydrogen sulfide – which have been found to prevent skin from aging after exposure to UV sunlight.

This could be lifechanging news for many – since sun exposure is not only the main cause of premature aging in skin, but is also a primary risk factor for skin cancer. The online journal Science Daily , has reported that an international research team has made inroads in delaying and reversing sun damage to the skin with a ‘drug’ for the first time.

Research on Reversing Sun Damage

This groundbreaking anti-aging research – published in Antioxidant and Redox Signaling  – was helmed by Professor Matt Whiteman at the University of Exeter Medical School, and Professor Uraiwan Panich at the Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, in Thailand.

During the study, adult human skin cells and mouse skin was exposed to ultraviolet radiation (UVA). Ultraviolet radiation is the part of natural sunlight that penetrates through windows, and even through some clothes, and damages unprotected skin. UVA causes skin to age prematurely by turning on skin digesting enzymes called collagenases that eat away at the skin’s natural collagen. As collagen is degraded, the skin to loses elasticity, sags, and develops wrinkles.

UVA rays also penetrates deeply into skin, damaging the skin’s cellular DNA, which can cause mutations that can contribute to some skin cancers. Sun screen sits on top of the skin and absorbs the sun’s UV radiation, but it does not penetrate the skin deeply where the long-lasting damage really occurs.

The researchers in this study actually two new compounds that not only protect the external skin like sunscreen, but also penetrated the skin to prevent the activation of skin-degrading collagenase enzymes and subsequent skin damage.

The compounds used in this trailblazing were previously known to reduce skin inflammation and skin damage after burn injury and atopic dermatitis (eczema). But the new application revealed that they also prevented human skin cells in test tube experiments – and live animal skin cells in mice – from aging.

Most exciting is that the authors of the study say that this approach might not only limit damage from UV radiation, but also potentially reverse sun damage to the skin.

Treatments to Reverse Sun Damage | Birmingham, MI

Unfortunately, research on these two amazing molecules is still in the early stages. So, this revolutionary anti-aging pill has not been FDA cleared or brought to market yet. More research is needed, but the long-term implications of this study could be medical as well as cosmetic. Not only could this drug potentially reverse signs of aging but could also protect against skin cancers.

In the meantime, wearing sunscreen daily – along with antioxidant skin protection from Vitamin A & C skin care products – is your best defense from the sun’s damaging rays. And, for patients who have already experienced signs of aging, AMAE offers the widest array of the most effect anti-aging cosmetic treatments including: Morpheus8, CO2Re and Profound.

Schedule a consultation today and we will help you choose the right skin care products and anti-aging treatments for you to protect your skin and revers signs of aging.

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Resources:

Jinapath Lohakul, Saowanee Jeayeng, Anyamanee Chaiprasongsuk, Roberta Torregrossa, Mark Wood, Malinee Saelim, Weerawon Thangboonjit, Matthew Whiteman, Uraiwan. Panichmitochondria-Targeted Hydrogen Sulfide Delivery Molecules Protect Against UVA-Induced Photoaging in Dermal Fibroblasts, and in Mouse Skin in Vivo. Antioxidants & Redox Signaling, 2021; DOI: 10.1089/ars.2020.8255

University of Exeter. “New drug molecules could prevent skin aging caused by sun exposure.” ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 5 August 2021. 

 

Why Your Anti-AgingSkin Care Routine Needs Vitamin A & C

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Anti-Aging Benefits of Vitamin A & Vitamin C Skin Care

The skin is the body’s largest organ – whose purpose is to act as a barrier against the environment.  When understanding “anti-aging” it is important to understand that the skin is comprised of two layers. The thinner epidermis (outer layer) provides the barrier function. And the much thicker dermis (inner layer) provides structure, strength, thickness, “plumpness,” and elasticity.

The skin is exposed to a number of daily influences over a person’s lifetime time that affect the skin’s structure, function, and appearance. One of the most important factors affecting skin condition is the quality of the nutrients it receives. Like any organ in the body, the skin needs the proper vitamins, minerals, proteins, etc. to build new cells as well as repair damaged cells.

In this article the anti-aging experts at AMAE discuss the importance of Vitamin A and Vitamin C in skin care for fighting the signs of aging and maintaining youthful skin.

Vitamin C Anti-Aging Skin Care

Young skin contains high levels of vitamin C (also known as ascorbic acid). High Vitamin C levels provide antioxidant protection against UV photodamage from the sun. But several recent research studies have shown that photodamaged skin, or skin with visible signs of aging have low levels of Vitamin C. This research has demonstrated that excessive exposure to UV radiation from the sun, as well as oxidative stress from exposure to pollution and chemicals (including cleansers and makeup) are associated with reduced Vitamin C levels in the skin’s outer epidermal layer [1].

Vitamin C is also required for the skin to produce elastin and collagen. Collagen is the protein “building block” that gives the skin a thick, smooth texture. While elastin is the protein that provides skin with tightness and the ability to “snap back,” rather than droop or sag.

Melanin is the “pigment” in the body that causes age spots, sun spots, freckles, and other unwanted pigmentation. Vitamin C also plays a crucial role in decreasing melanin synthesis, due to photodamage from the sun.

Skin care research has shown that both dietary and topical delivery of vitamin C fight sun damage, increase collagen and elastin, and reduce the formation of dark spots. [2]

Vitamin A Anti-Aging Skin Care

Vitamin A is also necessary for maintaining smooth, clear, young skin. One of Vitamin A’s most important roles in the body is to help speed up healing. And this includes repairing skin cells damaged by sun exposure. Vitamin A also helps prevents acne breakouts and promotes natural hydration.

Vitamin A was actually the very first vitamin approved by the FDA for use as an anti-wrinkle agent. Since then, there has been an abundance of clinical research that further supports the effectiveness of topical Vitamin A skin care products for anti-aging benefits. [3]

Vitamin A belongs to a class called “retinoids”. “First generation retinoids” refers to all natural retinoids including: retinol, retinal, tretinoin, isotretinoin. Retinol, retinal and retinoic acid have the same biological features as vitamin A. [3]. These ingredients are what patient should be looking for in an anti-aging skin care product.

Second and third generation retinoids – such as etretinate, acitretin- are synthetic compounds that resemble retinoids – but aren’t as effective as natural Vitamin A derivatives.

Retinoids help regulate new skin cell production and turnover. Retinoids also provide anti-wrinkle protection by strengthening the epidermis, preventing moisture loss, and protecting collagen from breaking down. [3] For this reason Vitamin A and its derivatives are among the most effective ingredients used in skin care products to slow the aging process.

In addition to boosting collagen and elastin production, Vitamin A (retinoids), also has strong anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce clogged pores and decrease acne breakouts.

How to Get Vitamin A & Vitamin C to the Skin

But many people do not get enough Vitamin A or Vitamin C in their diet, due to processed or “fast” foods and/or because they simply don’t eat enough fruits and vegetables. Fortunately, topical Vitamin A and Vitamin C – from skin care creams and serums – has been shown in clinical studies to be highly effectively at getting these two essential nutrients directly to the skin.

When it comes to Vitamin A and Vitamin C skin care products, the anti-aging skin care experts at AMAE prefer the clinical grade products from Alastin and ZO Skin Health.

Alastin Renewal Retinol serum was recently featured as a top skin care product in Oprah Magazine. This advanced retinol serum helps build collagen and hydrates at the same time – which immediately diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and helps repair the skin for long term benefits. Alastin Renewal Retinol is also safe for beginners, too, because it has a smaller concentration of retinol. Once the skin adjusts to the Vitamin A, patients can graduate to Alastin’s more powerful retinal formulas.

ZO 10% Vitamin C Self Activating is another of our favorite anti-aging skin care products for defending against sun and environmental damage, minimizing the appearance of discoloration, fine lines, and wrinkles.

By giving skin the nutrients that it needs every day, Vitamins A and C (along with other essential nutrients, antioxidants and peptides) can help patients achieve healthier, more resilient, younger looking skin … at any age!

Shop online for exclusive Alastin or ZO skin care products. Or stop by our office AMAE today and let our skin care experts help you choose the advanced skin protection and restoration products that are right for you.

Skin Care | Birmingham, MI: 248-335-7200

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  1. NIH National Library of Medicine; The Roles of Vitamin C in Skin Health; Juliet M. Pullar, Anitra C. Carr, and Margreet C. M. Vissers; 2017 Aug; 9(8): 866.
  2. Frontiers in Physiology, Role of Vitamin C in Skin Diseases; Kaiqin Wang1, Hui Jiang1, Wenshuang Li, Mingyue Qiang, Tianxiang Dong and Hongbin Li; 04 July 2018.
  3. NIH National Library of Medicine; Postepy Dermatol Alergol. Retinoids: active molecules influencing skin structure formation in cosmetic and dermatological treatments; Malwina Zasada and Elżbieta Budzisz; 2019 Aug; 36(4): 392–397.

 

 

 

 

 

Plastic Surgery Numbers Increase Post-Pandemic

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Plastic Surgery On the Rise – Especially Among Younger Women

Well, we survived the pandemic, but the economy is still somewhat uncertain, and let’s just say these are challenging times. But a new national survey called the Inaugural ASPS Insights and Trends Report: Cosmetic Surgery 2022 reports that plastic surgery in on the rise.

That survey found that many Americans are now desiring to “invest in themselves” through cosmetic procedures. And the report goes on to say that the biggest increase in plastic surgery procedures in 2022 was seen in women under 45.

Why Patients Are Investing in Plastic Surgery

That study posits that many individuals are undergoing plastic surgery post-pandemic because they may be working from home – so they have more time at home to recover. The study also suggests that many people saved larger sums of money during the Quarantine on expenses such as travel, shopping, and dining out.

Others speculate that, with more people working from home and regularly seeing themselves “on screen” in Zoom meetings, men and women are more aware of how they appear to others. And many people may not like what they see – or feel self-conscious about certain features and attributes that weren’t front and center before.

“We’re seeing ourselves on a computer screen a lot more regularly and are much more aware of our appearance. And for a lot of people, that makes them recognize that they may want to look a little younger or to appear less tired, which has led to an increase in facial and neck procedures” reported one plastic surgeon.  “I think people are recognizing that it’s okay to do something for themselves.”

Increase in Plastic Surgery in 2022

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons surveyed member surgeons across the U.S. and found that 70% s of cosmetic-focused plastic surgery practices are seeing more business than they had before the pandemic. And almost 30% of plastic surgeons in the survey reported that their plastic surgery business has at least doubled.

The survey also found that younger women between the 31 and 45 years old were by far the likeliest to undergo popular plastic surgery procedures, including breast augmentations, liposuction and tummy tucks.

The authors of that article speculated that millennials are much savvier about plastic surgery options, due to both the Internet in general and social media specifically. Millennials are also more open about plastic surgery than Baby Boomers and older generations – with the stigma and secrecy of plastic surgery a thing of the past.

And, although the surge in plastic surgery may be driven by women under 45, the article also reports that plastic surgeons are seeing more patients of every age group and gender.

The survey also revealed that not only are more people undergoing cosmetic surgery, but patients are willing to spend more on plastic surgery procedures than before the pandemic. According to the survey plastic surgeons, 59 said patients are willing to spend “somewhat more” on plastic surgery and 17 percent of plastic surgeons indicated that people were now willing to pay substantially more for plastic surgery than pre-pandemic.

Plastic Surgery | Birmingham, MI

Whatever your reasons for considering plastic surgery – to look younger, to present better on video conferencing, or to fix a feature that has always bothered you – the first step is finding a qualified and experienced Board Certified Plastic surgeon who is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. This ensures that the plastic surgeon is not only highly trained and experienced, but also employs the highest safety and ethical guidelines.

Remember not all “cosmetic surgeons” are board certified plastic surgeons (learn more here). Dr. Ali is board certified in plastic surgery, a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and a Fellow in the American College of Surgeons. He has performed more than 7,000 cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries. He has been awarded “Top Doc” by Hour Detroit Magazine multiple years in a row. He is also a “RealSelf” Top Doc, and has a perfect 5 star rating from his patients on Yelp!, Google and Facebook.

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Ali at AMAE Plastic Surgery in Birmingham, MI and tale the first step to loving the way you look and feel about your appearance!

Plastic Surgery | Birmingham, MI: 248.335.7200

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Resources:
https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-08-survey-demand-cosmetic-surgery-driven.html

https://www.plasticsurgery.org/documents/News/Trends/2022/trends-report-cosmetic-surgery-2022.pdf

Plastic Surgery: What is General Anesthesia Like?

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What to Expect with General Anesthesia During Plastic Surgery

Thanks to advancements in minimally invasive surgical procedures, many times plastic surgery can be performed with only “local” anesthetic (numbing). But more extensive plastic surgery procedures, such as tummy tucks or full facelifts typically require generally anesthesia – the kind that “knocks you out” or “puts you under”.

If you have booked your plastic surgery – or are considering cosmetic surgery – you are probably quite excited about your results! But if you still have some questions or reservations about the general anesthesia you will be undergoing, you’re not alone. In fact, data recently compiled in a study performed by psychiatrists revealed that roughly 30% of plastic surgery patients were more afraid of the anesthesia than of the surgery itself.

It’s human nature to worry about something as new, different, and important as surgery. If you are feeling anxious about general anesthesia, knowing what to expect can help you feel more relaxed and comfortable. In this article the plastic surgery experts at AMAE Plastic Surgery in Birmingham, MI explain how general anesthesia works, what being “put under” feels like, and what to expect on the day of your procedure.

Is General Anesthesia Safe during Plastic Surgery?

Modern methods of general anesthesia are extremely safe when administered by a skilled, board-certified anesthesiologist. Studies have shown that there is only a 0.01% to 0.016% (one-tenth of one percent) chance of a fatal complication caused by anesthesia.

Certain known risk factors are usually to blame for these very rare anesthesia-related complications. Obesity, smoking, underlying illness, advanced age, poor overall health, and medication interactions are most often behind anesthesia complications. So, it is critical that patients are honest with their plastic surgeon about smoking, any medications they are taking, and/or any preexisting health issues.

What to Expect from General Anesthesia during Plastic Surgery

On your day of surgery, a caring nurse will assist you with any pre-op preparations before you are taken to the operating room. Next, both the anesthesiologist and the plastic surgeon will discuss the general anesthesia process with you before giving you the anesthesia injection, IV drip or gas.

Once the anesthesia hits your bloodstream, the effects kick in very quickly. The anesthesiologist may ask you to count backward from 100 to monitor how you are responding to the medication. Most people don’t even make it to 90!

Typically, patients do not remember anything (or feel anything) after that – from the time the general anesthetic is administered to waking up in the recovery room.

How General Anesthesia Works During Plastic Surgery

General anesthesia works on four different levels to affect the entire body and ensure that the patient does not feel a thing:

  1. Unconsciousness: The patient is completely sedated, simulating a very deep sleep or coma.
  2. Immobility: The patient’s body is completely unable to move, keeping them completely still during surgery.
  3. Analgesia: This prevents the patient from feeling pain during the surgery at all.
  4. Amnesia: This ensures that the patient does not remember anything that happened during the procedure.

What Happens During General Anesthesia for Plastic Surgery

The anesthesiologist remains present for the entire time the patient is “asleep.” He or she will be constantly monitoring oxygen intake, vital signs, circulation, fluid loss, and degree of unconsciousness. This ensures that bodily function remains at stable, normal levels – and that the patient stays completely “under.” Knowing that a board certified anesthesiologist is by their side, monitoring their condition the entire time, often takes the worry away for many patients.

When the patient “wakes up” the period of time they were under general anesthesia is a ‘blank’. The last thing they usually remember is receiving the medication, and they don’t remember anything in between until they wake up in the recovery room.

Everyone reacts a bit differently to general anesthesia, upon waking up. Some patients simply feel “out of it” until they wake up completely. Others may feel emotional, loopy, or have slurred speech.

In fewer cases some people may have their inhibitions lowered and/or behave in an exaggerated manner that is normally uncharacteristic for them. This is perfectly normal and nothing to be embarrassed about. A quick YouTube or TikTok search returns many of videos patients exhibiting silly, out-of-character behavior as they recover from general anesthetic.

Recovery After General Anesthesia

Some patients may feel nauseous and/or dizzy for a little while, while others may shiver or feel cold for a few minutes or a couple hours.

For the first 24 hours after general anesthesia patients may continue to be sleepy, and their judgment, concentration and reflexes may still be affected. So, always have a responsible caregiver stay with you for at least a day after receiving general anesthesia.

Plastic Surgery | Birmingham, MI

While modern general anesthesia technology is extremely safe, you should always work with a board-certified plastic surgeon and a board certified anesthesiologist. Do not be shy or embarrassed to ask your plastic surgeon about the credentials of the anesthesiologist who will be administering your general anesthesia during your plastic surgery.

Dr. Ali is a skilled and experienced Birmingham, MI board certified plastic surgeon. He will answer all of your questions about general anesthesia if it is required for your plastic surgery procedure – and ensure you are paired with a fully qualified anesthesiologist or anesthetist.

Plastic Surgery | Birmingham, MI: 248-335-7200