The Stigma of Plastic Surgery

The Stigma of Plastic Surgery Is Going Away

Bloomfield Hills, MI– Plastic surgery. The phrase alone used to make people immediately link the term with others like fake, plastic, silicone, or not genuine. However, with nearly 16 million plastic surgery procedures done each year in the U.S. alone, it’s clear that many people are opting for something shunned a few decades ago. The stigma of cosmetic and plastic surgery is decreasing as time goes on, and this is good news for many people.

Detroit plastic surgeon Dr. M. Azhar Ali says, “The days of stigma for plastic surgery are over. With so many procedures available to patients today, it’s easier than ever to attain the body you’ve always wanted.”

Whether it’s a tummy tuck, breast augmentation, a facelift, or any other procedure, plastic surgery has come a long way. The options are virtually limitless, and people around the globe are taking notice. Since the year 2000, overall plastic procedures have increased 115% in the United States, and are still on the rise.

Many celebrities are now openly discussing the work they’ve had done, as they know they’re far from the exception anymore. Nowadays, one in five women report actively considering plastic surgery, with a growing number of procedures available.

What Are the Barriers to Plastic Surgery and How Can They Be Overcome?

“Plastic surgery can be a wonderful solution to a problem area or to help with self-confidence,” says Dr. Ali. “While it was more expensive and problematic in the past, it’s come a long way. Modern-day procedures are done by very experienced, highly-qualified surgeons, leading to fewer complications and better outcomes.”

Barriers to plastic surgery, for most people, include one or more of the following:

  • Cost
  • Recovery time
  • Fear of:
    o    Pain
    o    Complications
    o    Death
    o    Looking worse than before
  • Worry about not finding a good doctor

“Overcoming fear can be difficult for many patients,” Dr. Ali sympathizes. “However, if you find a board-certified, qualified plastic surgeon with great reviews, you can rest easy knowing you’re in good hands.”

Many practices now have plastic surgery financing plans for people who are worried about costs. If the procedure is deemed medically necessary, that can help with insurance coverage. For example, a rhinoplasty (nose restructuring) can sometimes be done to help improve one’s breathing.

“Know that for most people, plastic surgery is a wonderful opportunity to have the body you’ve always wanted,” Dr. Ali encourages. “While it might set you back slightly in the short-term, in the long run, you’ll be very glad you did it. And don’t forget: You’re in good company!”

To get started on your new body, make an appointment with Dr. Ali today! If you prefer, you may also call 855-335-7200 to speak with the office directly.

About Us: Detroit-based Dr. M. Azhar Ali is a board-certified plastic surgeon who has done over 6,000 procedures.  He and his team are competent professionals who are well-versed in many types of surgery. The outstanding staff at Dr. Ali’s Plastic Surgery Center and Amae MedSpa offer experienced, compassionate care to all patients.

© 2017 Millionairium and Dr. Ali. Authorization to post is granted, with the stipulation that Millionairium and Dr. Ali are credited as sole source. Linking to other sites from this document is strictly prohibited, with the exception of herein imbedded links.

Myths About Plastic Surgery That Aren’t True

Detroit, MI – You’re looking to improve your life through the wonders of plastic surgery.
But you’re torn.

What if something goes wrong? What if you can’t afford it? What if…What if…What if…

If you keep asking ‘what if’ questions, it’s probably because you’ve been taken in by all the pervasive myths that surround this amazing and life-changing industry.

Before you consider going under the knife to boost your appearance and your self-esteem, it’s time to get the facts straight.

Here are the most common myths that people actually believe about plastic surgery.
By learning the truth, you’ll be much better informed and well prepared to give yourself the body and/or face makeover you widely deserve.

Common Myths Debunked

Myth #1: Plastic Surgery is Risky and Dangerous

The Truth: You know what’s risky and dangerous? Getting plastic surgery in a third world country for pennies on the dollar.

You know what’s not? Having your procedures performed by a skilled and trained surgeon with a proven track record.

As long as you are in good health, and you are a good candidate for plastic surgery, your procedure will be safe and the risks minimal.

Of course, plastic surgery is still surgery, so infection and other complications can always occur, but as long as you engage in self-care and listen to your surgeon’s instructions post-surgery, you’ll most likely recover just fine.

Choose your surgeon carefully, listen to his or her instructions, and your plastic surgery procedure is very likely to go off without a hitch.

Myth #2: Plastic Surgery is Only for Rich People

The Truth: People from all walks of life are engaging in plastic surgery, and it’s becoming more common than ever.

From non-surgical techniques like Botox to remove lines and wrinkles to breast augmentations and tummy tucks, men and women of all ages and socioeconomic statuses are undergoing plastic surgery, and the trend only seems to be increasing.

If plastic surgeons only operated on the super wealthy, the industry wouldn’t be booming like it currently is.

Myth #3: Plastic Surgery is Only for Women

The Truth: More men are opting for plastic surgery than ever before.

In fact, Botox, dermal fillers, laser treatments and liposuction are becoming favorites of men everywhere to give them a leg up in the workplace. Plastic surgery helps men look younger and feel more virile, making them more competitive amongst their professional counterparts.

Guys who have excess breast tissue also choose to go under the knife for a procedure called gynecomastia surgery.

The bottom line is that men have body issues, too, and plastic surgery can help men everywhere overcome those issues, just like women have for years.

Myth #4: Plastic Surgery is Only for the Vain

The Truth: Just because you choose to get plastic surgery doesn’t mean that you’re full of yourself.

Far from it.

Going under the knife means that you’re into self-improvement.

When diet and exercise aren’t enough to get rid of belly fat, which can happen with age and multiple pregnancies, a tummy tuck and/or liposuction can help you get your pre-pregnancy body back.

Everyone ages, that much is true, but you don’t have to allow time to take its toll. If you feel young inside, you should look that way, too. Plastic surgery can help you do that.

But plastic surgery isn’t all about looks. Studies have shown that tummy tucks, for example, can have medical benefits too.

You then you have to consider all the plastic surgery procedures that are designed to help people overcome birth defects, such as cleft palates, or post-cancer breast reconstruction.
Plastic surgery isn’t only for the vain. It’s for individuals who want more out of life.

Conclusion

It’s sad to think that these myths, as common as they are, have kept people from undergoing surgery that could have positively changed their lives.

By choosing a highly-decorated plastic surgeon and by making the decision to better your life through plastic surgery, you might find yourself feeling like an entirely different person.

You might reach for goals you never considered. You might take on an entirely different attitude.

And you just may see a massive boost in your self-confidence and how you feel about yourself.

Don’t let these myths take hold, learn the truth, and you’ll feel much better about your decision to have plastic surgery, whatever procedures you may be considering.

© 2016 Millionairium and Dr. Ali. Authorization to post is granted, with the stipulation that Millionairium and Dr. Ali are credited as sole source. Linking to other sites from this document is strictly prohibited, with the exception of herein imbedded links.

5 Ways Plastic Surgery Can Improve Your Life

Bloomfield Hills, MI – Considering cosmetic surgery, but still on the fence? If so, you’re probably wondering if the prep, procedure and recovery time are worth it.

If any of this sounds familiar, what you’re about to learn might surprise you.

As it turns out, not only can cosmetic surgery alter your appearance – such as the shape of your nose or size of your waist – going “under the knife” can also improve your quality of life.

“I had the [breast augmentation] surgery three weeks ago, and each day I am happier and happier with my results!” said a recent patient of Dr. M. Azhar Ali, one of Michigan’s top plastic surgeons and owner of AMAE Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Center.

She added, “I look natural, I get compliments from all my friends, and I feel more confident than ever!”

Dr. Ali stresses that as long as the patient doesn’t have unrealistic expectations, there are five major areas where a person’s life can become immeasurably better by opting for one or more procedures.

“I call it becoming a better person from the outside in,” added Dr. Ali.

Here are the five ways your life can be enhanced from the outside in by opting for one or more cosmetic procedures.

A Sunnier Disposition

A recent European study confirmed that patients who undergo plastic surgery report a boost in self-confidence and overall enjoyment of life.

The study followed 550 patients during and post-procedure and came to the conclusion that the majority of patients, “felt healthier, were less anxious, had developed more self-esteem and found their operated body feature in particular, but also their body as a whole, more attractive,” researchers said.

So if you’re in the doldrums at the moment, and one or more body parts are contributing to your lack of confidence, one or more cosmetic procedures could put that much-needed smile back on your face.

A Healthier Body

You may be wondering how plastic surgery can help your body become healthier. In addition to improved self-esteem, which has innumerable effects on health, there are other facts that might surprise you.

If you have large breasts that prevent you from exercising, for example, a breast reduction would improve your tolerance to exercise, leading to less discomfort and a healthier heart.
A rhinoplasty to repair your deviated septum would lead to improved oxygen flow, more efficient breathing, deeper sleep (and a lot less snoring).

Liposuction and tummy tucks (and even breast reductions) remove fat cells, which contributes to fewer fatty acids being released into the body. You will also decrease your risk of diabetes.

These are just some of the effects that can be had by opting for certain cosmetic procedures. You’ll look better, feel better and you might just live longer.

A Boost Up the Career Ladder

We always hear of celebrities altering their appearance to land juicy roles. It turns out, many non-celebrities are doing the same thing, and enjoying the same types of benefits.

According to the American Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery and Reconstructive Surgery, a major faction of people who request plastic surgery report doing so because they want to remain competitive on the job.

In addition to higher education and living a healthy lifestyle, the way you look can get you hired or secure you that much-deserved raise.

Is going under the knife the only way to get ahead? Absolutely not, but it can give you a leg up on the competition if you ever find yourself head to head with another professional.
All things being even, if you look better and feel better about yourself, which cosmetic surgery can contribute to, you are more likely to get the job or promotion.

So if you find yourself struggling to find work or stagnant in your current position, one or more plastic surgery operations could help you find the success you crave.

Enhanced Relationships

Dr. Bryan Mendelson, former President of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, says that we are hard-wired to appreciate beauty. And that attractive people, among other things, experience better personal lives.

For one, your relationships could improve. If you or your partner have one or more body parts that prevent you from being intimate, a cosmetic procedure could bring you two closer together.

You might also have an easier time making friends.

Dr. Mandelson cites a study that showed how good looking people are more likely to be labeled as being “good” and trustworthy, and they are simply treated better than those who aren’t as attractive.

Of course, it could be the increase in self-esteem that helps you make better friends and enhances your other personal – even romantic – relationships, but there’s no denying that attractive people are more magnetic.

It’s not all about looks. A personality still goes a long way, but why not get that boost in social status that comes from looking better, if doing so is only a single procedure away?

New Lease on Life

Getting one or more plastic surgery procedures makes you more motivated to improve your life.

“My patients jump out of bed in the morning. They look forward to their days, to meeting new people. There is an obvious change between who they were and who they are now, and it’s a beautiful thing,” said Dr. Ali.

The fact is, cosmetic surgery is a growing movement. Analysts predict that more plastic surgeries will be performed in 2016 than any other year. To put that into perspective, Americans spent $12 billion on cosmetic procedures in 2014, the most recorded since 2008, as seen in the graph below.

graph

With improved confidence, health, professional and social lives, and a whole new outlook, it’s no wonder why so many opt for cosmetic surgery.

If you are considering plastic surgery, you now know that a “brand new you” is just a quick phone call away. Call Dr. Ali today for a consultation. (855) 335-7200

© 2016 Millionairium and Dr. Ali. Authorization to post is granted, with the stipulation that Millionairium and Dr. Ali are credited as sole source. Linking to other sites from this document is strictly prohibited, with the exception of herein imbedded links.

Surgery concept.

Preparing for Plastic Surgery

Bloomfield Hills, MI – So you’ve made the decision to undergo plastic surgery. Congratulations! Plastic surgery can improve your life by helping you look and feel your best, but it is important to remember that any surgery is a serious procedure. There are several things you should do to prepare.

“I like to make sure that all of my patients are well-prepared, both mentally and physically, prior to their surgery,” says Dr. Ali, a Michigan plastic surgeon. “We want to ensure the best results following your procedure, so there are a few things you should do beforehand for that to happen.”

Three weeks before your surgery

  1. Stop smoking. Smoking can cause serious complications because it constricts blood flow. Serious complications can happen during your procedure, and smoking following your procedure can impede healing. Do not resume smoking until your surgeon gives you permission. This will ensure your incision heals correctly.
  2. Stop drinking. Drinking, like smoking, can slow down your body’s ability to heal and can also lower your immune system. Alcohol can also thin the blood, making you more likely to bleed excessively during your procedure.
  3. Make a list of any medications you take, including over-the-counter and herbal remedies. Some medications can interfere with proper blood clotting, or anesthesia. Providing a complete list of medications will prevent negative interactions.
  4. Be sure you are eating a healthy diet. Salicylates can be found in many foods, and can affect the blood and lead to excessive bruising. Cut out foods such as tea, coffee, dried herbs, black pepper, strawberries, cherries, tomatoes, and fruit juices.

Two weeks before your surgery

  1. Stop taking any medications that could lead to excessive bleeding. These include aspirin and ibuprofen, anti-inflammatory drugs, anti-coagulants, and internally ingested vitamin E.
  2. Increase your vitamin intake. Vitamin A can boost your immune system, while vitamin C can boost wound healing properties. Bromelain can help reduce swelling. If you have any questions, ask your surgeon which vitamins will be most helpful.

One week before your surgery

  1. Limit your sodium intake. Sodium can lead to swelling, and may prevent your body from healing as quickly as it otherwise would.
  2. Eat a healthy diet, rich in fruits, vegetables and protein. What you eat can be a great help in your healing process.
  3. Fill all prescriptions. This can be helpful, and prevent you from having to run to the pharmacy while recovering from a tummy tuck or other procedure. You may experience pain after your surgery, and will want all medications ready right away.
  4. Buy any post-surgical garments you may need. Some procedures require special garments to aid in healing. If your surgeon’s office doesn’t provide those, be sure you purchase them before the day of your surgery.
  5. If you are having a facelift or other facial procedure and color your hair, you may want to schedule a touch-up appointment as close to your surgery date as possible. You won’t be able to visit the salon until your incision has completely healed, so it may be a while until you can have your hair touched up.

In the days leading up to your surgery, be sure you are using a plain soap to clean the surgical area well. If you are having a breast augmentation, do not shave under your arms in the days leading up to your surgery to limit your risk of developing an infection.

The night before your surgery, be sure to get plenty of rest. You won’t be able to eat or drink anything for 12 hours before your procedure to avoid risks with your anesthesia. If you are having facial surgery, you may wash your hair the night before, but avoid putting any hair spray or other product in.

Be sure you’ve made arrangements for someone to drive you home following your procedure.

The day of your surgery you may brush your teeth as normal. Do not use make-up, deodorant, lotions, or other beauty products. Remove all jewelry. If you wear contacts, take them out and wear your glasses for the day. Loose fitting clothing will be the most comfortable following your procedure. If you are having a facial procedure, you may wish to have a scarf and/or dark glasses to wear after.

If you have any questions about how to prepare for your surgery, don’t hesitate to ask your surgeon. Failing to follow your surgeon’s instructions can impede your body’s ability to heal, and may impact your results.

© 2016 Millionairium and Dr. Ali. Authorization to post is granted, with the stipulation that Millionairium and Dr. Ali are credited as sole source. Linking to other sites from this document is strictly prohibited, with the exception of herein imbedded links.

Plastic Surgery Trends to Expect in 2016

Bloomfield Hills, MI – What can we expect in the world of plastic surgery this year? As the number of people seeking out procedures continues to rise, Dr. Ali discusses what procedures he thinks will lead the way.

“More people continue to discover the advantages of plastic surgery,” says the Michigan plastic surgeon. “It’s not just for older patients – there is a procedure for everyone. I think one of the biggest areas we’ll see as a trend this year is an increase in the number of millennials seeking out the plastic surgeon’s office.”

Currently, this generation makes up approximately 20 percent of the population seeking out plastic surgery, but with social media continuing to be a vital part of their lives, millennials will most likely make up a bigger piece of the pie soon.

“The younger generations live their lives out via social media,” says Dr. Ali. “I think we’ll see more young people looking for ways to perfect their looks to portray their best selves online.”

In the same vein, Dr. Ali believes we’ll continue to see an increase in the number of men who visit plastic surgeons.

“Women aren’t the only ones who want to erase the signs of aging,” says Dr. Ali. “Men are finding that to be competitive in the work place, it can help to look younger and more vigorous. It’s not uncommon to find men asking about blepharoplasty, or eyelid procedures, to erase the lines around their eyes that can prematurely age them.”

Dr. Ali expects men to continue to seek out procedures, especially for the face and chest.

The last several years have seen an increase in procedures to enhance the buttocks area. With Beyonce and Kim Kardashian-West dominating magazine covers, the buttocks are a popular area for augmentation, and Dr. Ali expects this to continue, as well.

“Women love procedures such as the Brazilian butt lift to give them the same shape Kim and Beyonce have,” says Dr. Ali. “While I think this will continue, I do think we will see an increase in women wanting a more natural looking shape that is in proper proportion with their bodies. Bigger might be better, but natural-looking is best.”

The natural look also spills over to another area of the body – the breasts. Breast augmentations continue to dominate the plastic surgery world, but surgeons are seeing women opt for smaller, more natural looking sizes.
Dr. Ali thinks there will also continue to be an increase in the number of minimally invasive procedures performed.

“People are realizing that with the amazing array of fillers on the plastic surgery market, they don’t have to go under the knife to look young and refreshed,” says Dr. Ali. “A few simple and virtually pain-free injections can reverse the signs of aging, and it can be done on your lunch break. Fillers fit in to busy lifestyles, where people want to look and feel their best, but don’t want to be out of commission for long.”

One thing is certain, Americans want to look younger and feel their best, and are discovering that a trip to the plastic surgeon can do that. In 2014, we saw the biggest increase in spending on plastic surgery since 2008, with Americans spending more than $12 billion. In 2016, Dr. Ali thinks that figure will be even higher.

© 2016 Millionairium and Dr. Ali. Authorization to post is granted, with the stipulation that Millionairium and Dr. Ali are credited as sole source. Linking to other sites from this document is strictly prohibited, with the exception of herein imbedded links.

Handsome gym man

What Causes Male Breast Enlargement?

Bloomfield Hills, MI – Are you a male who suffers from enlarged breast tissue? You’re not alone – one in four men over the age of 50 suffer from the condition known as gynecomastia. But what causes it?

Gynecomastia, or male breast enlargement, is triggered by a decrease in testosterone,” says Dr. Ali, a Michigan plastic surgeon. “Normal hormone changes can cause the condition, as well as medications, drug and alcohol use, and certain health conditions.”

Gynecomastia is the enlargement of glandular tissue within the male breast, and can happen during infancy and puberty in normally-developing boys. In these instances, hormonal fluctuations trigger it, and it will ease on its own, typically within six months to two years. The instances of gynecomastia then peaks again in men between the ages of 50 and 80, as testosterone levels naturally begin to decrease.

There are also several medications that can cause the condition. They include:

  • Anti-androgens that are used to treat prostate conditions such as enlarged prostate and prostate cancer.
  • Anabolic steroids and androgens
  • AIDS medications, such as highly activeretroviral therapy and efavirenz.
  • Anti-anxiety medications, such as valium
  • Antidepressants
  • Ulcer medications
  • Chemotherapy
  • Heart medications and calcium channel blockers

Additionally, certain medical conditions can cause gynecomastia because they affect the body’s normal hormone balance. They include:

  • Aging – normal aging brings about hormonal chances that can trigger gynecomastia, especially in overweight men.
  • Tumors, especially involving the testes, adrenal or pituitary glands, can result in the production of hormones that will alter the body’s balance.
  • Hyperthyroidism results in too much thyroxine being produced.
  • Kidney failure
  • Liver failure and cirrhosis
  • Malnutrition and starvation can cause a significant drop in testosterone levels, while estrogen levels remain the same.

The use of controlled substances, such as alcohol, amphetamines, marijuana, heroin and methadone can also lead to enlarged male breasts.

The symptoms of gynecomastia are enlarged male breasts, caused by enlargement of the glandular tissue, not the fatty tissue. It may result in a rubbery or firm feel, and typically occurs on both sides. There may be some sensitivity or tenderness, but no pain should be present.

“Gynecomastia should not be mistaken for male breast cancer,” says Dr. Ali. “Male breast cancer accounts for about one percent of all breast cancer diagnoses, and will typically be found on only one side. The breast will feel hard or firm at the location of the cancerous tumor, and there can be dimpling of the skin, retraction of the nipple, enlargement of the lymph nodes and/or a discharge from the nipple.”

If you have concerns about whether your condition is gynecomastia or male breast cancer, consult a physician immediately.

Gynecomastia surgery, or male breast reduction, can reduce the size of the breast, while also flattening and enhancing the contours of the chest. For severe cases of gynecomastia that have also stretched the areola, a trained surgeon can also resize and reposition the areola, while reducing excess skin.

“Reduction mammoplasty offers excellent results in men who have severe gynecomastia or who have suffered from the condition for a long time,” says Dr. Ali. “In some cases, drug therapy may work to reduce the size of the male breast, but in many cases, surgery is the best option.”

For many men, gynecomastia is a source of embarrassment. It can be stressful, leading a man to attempt to hide it and making romance and everyday life more difficult. If you suffer from gynecomastia and are ready to regain your confidence, schedule a consultation with Dr. Ali today.

© 2015 Millionairium and Dr. Ali. Authorization to post is granted, with the stipulation that Millionairium and Dr. Ali are credited as sole source. Linking to other sites from this document is strictly prohibited, with the exception of herein imbedded links.

No Smoking

Why You Should Avoid Smoking Before and After Surgery

Bloomfield Hills, MI – Smoking is bad for your health, but did you know that smoking can be particularly dangerous both before and after plastic surgery?

Smoking introduces carbon monoxide into your body, which then affects your tissue. Nicotine from cigarettes and other tobacco products acts as a vasoconstrictor, limiting the amount of oxygen your blood vessels can carry to your body.

“Patients should stop smoking before plastic surgery,” says Dr. Ali. “It’s best to stop using tobacco several weeks before any procedure, and to refrain from smoking for several weeks following it, as well.”

Patients who smoke up until surgery can face complications during surgery, as well as longer healing times and worsened scars post-surgery. Smoking compromises our circulation, which can lead to skin breakdown before and after surgery. Additionally, smokers have a higher rate of post-surgery infection, and impaired healing can cause scarring, skin loss and necrosis.

While quitting smoking before surgery is recommended prior to any procedure, there are some where it is even more critical to ensure success. For instance, some surgeons may opt not to perform facelifts on patients because of the negative effects. The face has so many tiny capillaries that require good blood flow to aid in healing, and smoking can restrict positive blood flow, making recovery and healing harder.

During plastic surgery, your skin or other tissues will be moved, which results in altering of blood supply. Blood vessels may get divided and moved around to create the best look and shape. If the desired amount of oxygen can’t reach the area, the tissue may heal improperly or even die.

And this is true even if you’ve never before experienced issues in healing. Complications following plastic surgery are much higher than other procedures, precisely because tissues are being moved and blood supplies are being altered.

It’s also important to remember that smokers are not the only ones who need to worry about these issues. Using nicotine of any kind, including the patch, can affect your results. Patients should stop using nicotine of any kind until given the okay by their surgeon.

Some surgeons refuse to perform surgery on smokers altogether due to the deleterious effects of smoking, or make their patients sign a contract stating they won’t smoke for a certain period of time before and after their procedure.

It’s important to be completely honest with your surgeon about your nicotine habits so he can create a treatment plan that will offer the best outcomes. To avoid complications during surgery, as well as longer recovery times and worsened scars, following all of your surgeon’s directions regarding abstaining from nicotine products.

© 2015 Millionairium and Dr. Ali. Authorization to post is granted, with the stipulation that Millionairium and Dr. Ali are credited as sole source. Linking to other sites from this document is strictly prohibited, with the exception of herein imbedded links.

What Breast Implant Size is The Right Size for Me?

In my practice this is one of the most commonly asked questions by women seeking breast enhancement. Choosing the right implant size will result in a longer lasting, esthetically pleasing result and a happy patient. In my opinion any size could be the right size as long as certain rules and guidelines are followed.

The successful outcome is based on a number of factors. The most important being the chest width. Implants are available in different sizes and shapes. For any given chest size, patients have three options to choose from. For women requiring larger cup size, high profile implants are suitable. For moderate enlargement, medium profile implants are available, whereas low profile implants are well suited for subtle breast enhancement. So the final selection depends upon the patient’s desire, existing breast volume and the skin condition.

Some of the other important factors include height and weight of the patient. In general, women who are taller and heavier can tolerate larger volume breast implants. Another important factor is the hip width. Slightly wider implants are desirable in women with wider hips to achieve a balanced result. Make sure you discuss all these factors with your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.