A liquid face lift is a highly successful non-surgical alternative to plastic surgery. Liquid face lift procedures typically involve a series of facial filler injections into various “problem” areas of the face.
In the past decade, we have seen an explosion in the popularity of non-surgical procedures, which has resulted in several new FDA-approved products being introduced.
Facial filler products include but are not limited to: BOTOX®, XEOMIN®, Juvederm®, Restylane®, BELOTERO BALANCE ®, Dysport®, Sculptra®, and RADIESSE®. These injections, often used in conjunction with each other, provide lifting, plumping, smoothing and re-contouring.
The benefits of a liquid face lift include, but are not limited to:
- A non-invasive rejuvenation of the face
- Very fast, sometimes immediate results
- Short procedure times (many procedures take only 20-30 minutes)
- Little recovery time (many patients return to work the same day)
Patients may experience some tenderness or redness surrounding the injection sites, but side effects such as infection or allergic reaction are very rare.
While with most products, results can be seen immediately, they are not permanent like a surgical facelift. A liquid face lift will only improve the look of aging for six months to a year, depending on the product(s) used. Liquid face lifts require touch-up procedures over time to maintain the patient’s desired appearance.
Patients seeking more permanent results which will change the elements of the face may instead consider a surgical procedure such as a facelift, brow lift or eye lift.
We strongly advise anyone looking to have a liquid face lift of any kind to schedule a professional consultation with a plastic surgeon that is board-certified by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Although liquid face lifts are non-surgical procedures, patients often see the best results when selecting a skilled specialist with extensive training surrounding facial aesthetics. Every product is different, as is every patient. Only a board-certified plastic surgeon can determine which procedure and product is best for you.
If you are considering injectables, fillers or a liquid facelift, contact Amae Plastic Surgery Center today.
What Are BRCA Gene Tests?
/0 Comments/in Oakland County Plastic Surgery /by adminRecent media concerning actress Angelina Jolie and her decision to undergo a bilateral mastectomy after discovering a BRCA gene mutation has a lot of women wondering: What is the BRCA gene? What does a BRCA gene test reveal?
BRCA1 is a human caretaker gene that produces a protein called breast cancer type 1 susceptibility protein. BRCA1 can be found in the cells of the breast and other tissues, where they help repair damaged DNA and destroy the cells in which DNA cannot be repaired. However, if BRCA1 itself is damaged this increases one’s risk for various cancers, because it cannot help repair damaged DNA.
BRCA2 (breast cancer type 2 susceptibility protein) is also a protein found in cells, although this protein belongs to the gene family that help suppress tumors through the repair of chromosomal damage. Similar to BRCA1, if this protein is damaged itself and not helping to support repair, one’s risks for various cancers are increased.
Several different types of BRCA gene tests are available. Some are tests that look for a known mutation that has already been identified in another family member, while others can check for all possible mutations in both genes. A blood or saliva sample is needed to provide the laboratory with DNA for the mutation testing. Upon arriving at the lab it is analyzed and you are then provided with the results/findings.
In Angelina Jolie’s case, she decided to undergo the test, and tested positive for BRCA gene mutations. She made an individual decision about how to manage her diagnosis. But, a celebrity speaking out on their own choice and diagnosis does not make it the right option for everyone. Every woman is different, and any woman considering a BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene test should consult with their primary caretaker.
Solutions for “Sleepy Faces”
/0 Comments/in Face Lift /by adminThis morning you woke up after a restless night of sleep and a long week of work. You can’t help but shrug when you look in the mirror. Puffy eyes, dry-looking skin, fine wrinkles, dark circles … even the corners of your mouth are turned-down. Unfortunately, being fatigued isn’t just a feeling on the inside – your body gives away the telltale signs on the outside so that everyone you encounter today can see that you’re tired.
A recent report published in the September issue of Sleep shared the results of a study conducted by Tina Sundelin from the department of psychology at Stockholm University. The study revealed that looking sleepy can result in others making false character judgments. Those that observed someone who simply “looked sleepy” associated their look with irresponsibility and the concern of whether or not this sleepy person was competent or trustworthy.
So, is there a solution for “the sleepy face?” The solution for facial features that are directly related to fatigue is quite simple; it’s more sleep. Everyone should get at least 8 hours of sleep a day and if you aren’t, the effects will likely worsen over time. Sleep deprivation is linked to occupational injury, stress, decreased performance, memory and cognitive impairment and more in addition to what shows on your face.
However, it’s important to note that some facial features associated with sleep deprivation can’t necessarily be “slept away.” They may be associated with aging, which takes its own toll on the elasticity and health of your skin.
Some patients choose to undergo cosmetic surgeries such as eye lifts or facelifts to gain more permanent improvements for deep cheek folds or that “sunken” feeling in the face, both of which occur naturally with age. Less invasive solutions (in addition to getting enough sleep) include liquid face lifts, which use injectables and fillers to smooth out and/or “fill in” folds, wrinkles and marionette lines (the lines at the corner of your mouth that can make you appear sad).
We can’t stress enough that everyone is different and it takes a professional board certified plastic surgeon to help analyze your “facial health” and the health of your skin. If you currently feel as if you have a “sleepy face” day after day, and 8 hours of sleep each night does not seem to help, consider scheduling a consultation with Dr. Ali. We look forward to hearing from you.
BRA Day – October 16th
/0 Comments/in Oakland County Plastic Surgery /by adminOnce again the staff of Amae Plastic Surgery will be observing Breast Reconstruction Awareness (BRA) Day. This is the second annual BRA Day, which is designed to raise awareness among women and medical professionals of the options for breast reconstruction that are available to women who have undergone a mastectomy. October 16th is designated as BRA day in order to coincide with breast cancer awareness month.
For more information on BRA Day and Breast Reconstruction Awareness, visit http://www.bradayusa.org/
Breast Reduction Gaining Popularity
/0 Comments/in Oakland County Plastic Surgery /by adminWe’ve all heard of someone undergoing a breast augmentation (implants) procedure. But did you know that breast reduction surgery is among one of the most popular procedures in cosmetic surgery? In fact, according to the Cosmetic Surgery National Data Bank statistics, more than 100,000 women had like-surgeries in 2012.
But why?
Large or oversized breasts can cause a number of mental and physical strains including but not limited to:
Breast reduction is a procedure that can eliminate the above-mentioned symptoms, and is most often achieved through a combination of liposuction and surgery. Once excess tissue, fat and skin has been removed to decrease the size of the breast, the breasts are meticulously contoured. The areola can also be reduced in size at this time and is repositioned along with the nipple to adhere to the new shape of the breast.
Because breast reduction provides patients with such positive life-altering results, and because many insurance companies will cover this procedure (assuming certain requirements are met), we’ve seen a tremendous increase in popularity across the U.S., and right here in Bloomfield Hills at Amae Plastic Surgery Center.
If you are currently considering this procedure, or are just interested in collecting more information at this time, please contact us. Although having too large of breasts is often a problem from an early age, it is most often recommended to wait until breasts are fully developed to undergo a breast reduction surgery.
As a reminder, online research should never serve as a substitute for a professional consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon!
Can You Go Out In The Sun After a Chemical Peel?
/0 Comments/in Facial Filler, Juvederm /by adminIf you are unhappy with facial blemishes, wrinkles or uneven skin pigmentation, a chemical peel may be the perfect solution for improving the texture of your facial skin. When a patient undergoes a chemical peel, a chemical solution is applied to the face and works to remove the sun-damaged outer layers of the skin. Chemical peels promote the regeneration of new and healthy layers.
Every chemical peel procedure is different and depends on the patient’s unique condition and desired results. Some chemical solutions contain a much higher concentration of chemicals than others and will result in a deeper peel.
Whether you have a low concentration chemical peel or a high concentration chemical peel, it is extremely important that you avoid exposure to direct sunlight. Following a procedure of this kind, you may have some stinging, redness, and irritation. Don’t forget that your skin is in a delicate state; the outer layers have been removed and this leaves you at risk for a serious sunburn. In addition to actually burning, direct sun can often result in an undesirable pigmentation of the treated skin. You may be instructed to avoid sun tanning or intentional sun exposure for a few days or even a few months following your procedure, so that your skin has time to regenerate.
Your qualified aesthetician should always provide you with specific instruction for aftercare, regardless of what type of procedure is performed. If you are interested in having a chemical peel, only trust a skilled specialist with extensive training. To find out which type of chemical peel is right for you, contact Amae Plastic Surgery Center.
Breast Augmentation, Reduction and Reconstruction Seminar
/0 Comments/in Oakland County Plastic Surgery /by adminHave you been considering a breast augmentation, breast reduction or breast reconstruction but would like to get more information? Dr. Ali will be conducting Advances in Plastic Surgery: Understanding Breast Augmentation, a one-hour seminar on Tuesday, August 27th from 5-6pm at St. Joseph hospital in Port Huron, Michigan.
Dr. Ali is a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in cosmetic and reconstructive breast surgery. During this seminar Dr. Ali will explore plastic surgery options available to meet the unique needs of individual patients who are ultimately working toward obtaining a healthy self-image. This seminar will be a solid overview of breast enhancement surgery for anyone who is considering a procedure either now or in the near future.
This free event includes hors d’oeuvres and refreshments. For more information and to make your reservation to attend, please call 1-888-MERCYME (1-888-637- 2963). Seating is limited and registration is required.
Solutions For Flabby or Saggy Arms
/0 Comments/in Arm Lift /by adminIt’s summertime and you’re too embarrassed to wear short sleeves. Why? You may refer to this condition as “bat wings” or “flabby arms.”
To battle saggy arms, there are a number of solutions. Two of them include aerobic exercise to burn fat and strength training to tone muscle. Although, as we age many of us experience an increase in body fat due to our slowing metabolism and a decrease in muscle tone. All the hard work in the world may not accomplish your desired appearance, causing you to veto short sleeves or sleeveless tops.
In addition to age, weight loss and gravity can also cause arm tissue to relax and appear saggy. The drooping skin, if severe enough, can compromise personal hygiene, in addition to appearance.
Patients who are very unhappy with “bat wings” or saggy arms, and are not having any luck with diet and exercise, sometimes choose to undergo brachioplasty surgery. This type of procedure reshapes the underside of sagging upper arms by removing excess skin and fat.
There are many different approaches to brachioplasty surgery, and nearly all include some form of liposuction. An incision is made in the armpit and can sometimes extend down to the elbow depending on how much skin or fat needs to be removed.
Are you currently unhappy with the appearance of your arms? If so, we recommend visiting a board-certified plastic surgeon such as Dr. Ali. Dr. Ali will take the time to get to know you, to understand your goals and to provide you with information you need to make the best decision regarding plastic surgery.
Click here to contact Dr. Ali at Amae Plastic Surgery Center today.
What Is A Liquid Face Lift?
/0 Comments/in Facial Filler, Juvederm /by adminA liquid face lift is a highly successful non-surgical alternative to plastic surgery. Liquid face lift procedures typically involve a series of facial filler injections into various “problem” areas of the face.
In the past decade, we have seen an explosion in the popularity of non-surgical procedures, which has resulted in several new FDA-approved products being introduced.
Facial filler products include but are not limited to: BOTOX®, XEOMIN®, Juvederm®, Restylane®, BELOTERO BALANCE ®, Dysport®, Sculptra®, and RADIESSE®. These injections, often used in conjunction with each other, provide lifting, plumping, smoothing and re-contouring.
The benefits of a liquid face lift include, but are not limited to:
Patients may experience some tenderness or redness surrounding the injection sites, but side effects such as infection or allergic reaction are very rare.
While with most products, results can be seen immediately, they are not permanent like a surgical facelift. A liquid face lift will only improve the look of aging for six months to a year, depending on the product(s) used. Liquid face lifts require touch-up procedures over time to maintain the patient’s desired appearance.
Patients seeking more permanent results which will change the elements of the face may instead consider a surgical procedure such as a facelift, brow lift or eye lift.
We strongly advise anyone looking to have a liquid face lift of any kind to schedule a professional consultation with a plastic surgeon that is board-certified by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Although liquid face lifts are non-surgical procedures, patients often see the best results when selecting a skilled specialist with extensive training surrounding facial aesthetics. Every product is different, as is every patient. Only a board-certified plastic surgeon can determine which procedure and product is best for you.
If you are considering injectables, fillers or a liquid facelift, contact Amae Plastic Surgery Center today.
New Breast Implant Approved
/0 Comments/in Oakland County Plastic Surgery /by adminMentor Worldwide, maker of high quality implants for breast augmentation announced it has received FDA approval on a new implant. The MemoryShape is an anatomically-shaped cohesive silicone gel implant designed to be used in breast augmentation and breast reconstruction.
The silicone gel in the MemoryShape breast implant contains more cross-linking compared to the silicone gel used in Mentor’s previously approved implant. This increased cross-linking results in a silicone gel that is firmer.
Research shows that patient satisfaction with breast augmentation is 98 percent, and continued advancements such as this will only serve to maintain and improve this number. Women now have more choices than ever to achieve a natural result, and plastic surgeons have another safe alternative to offer.
As with all FDA approvals, Mentor is required to conduct a series of post-approval studies to assess long-term safety and effectiveness.
This approval makes the Mentor MemoryShape implant the fifth FDA-approved silicone gel-filled breast implant available in the United States.
Breast Augmentation Patients Report High Satisfaction
/0 Comments/in Breast Augmentation /by adminBreast augmentation continues to be one of the most popular plastic surgeries and a study published in the May 2013 issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery shows that satisfaction rates are high. More than 91% of the 225 patients interviewed said the procedure met or exceeded their expectations and 98.7% indicated they would do it again. Furthermore, 91.1% of those surveyed reported increased self-esteem, and 64.3% reported improved quality of life.
Careful screening and the proper setting of expectations play a role in this level of satisfaction. Dr. Ali is very thorough and careful in assessing each patient’s health and expectations for the surgery. This insures that expectations and realistic and achievable.
If you are considering breast augmentation in Michigan, contact Dr. Ali to discuss your options. For further information on breast enhancement procedures, download Dr. Ali’s free whitepaper Introduction to Cosmetic Breast Enhancement: Understanding Your Options.