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Retiring is something that all of us look forward to. It's the stage of life where we can finally relax, travel, and enjoy life without the stress of a career. One exciting way to indulge in this era is by getting a treatment or procedure to make us feel more youthful as we enter retirement.  Several options are available, and your choice will depend entirely on your personal preference and the desired outcome. 

Top 5 Cosmetic Procedures to Help You Look and Feel Your Best

As you approach retirement, you may feel like you're losing your youthful glow. But it doesn't have to be that way. There are a variety of cosmetic procedures out there to help you look and feel your best. 

From non-invasive treatments to surgical procedures, plenty of options are available to help you look and feel like a younger version of yourself. Here’s a look at five of the most popular cosmetic procedures:

Face Lift

Recent research shows that facelift procedures are the top cosmetic procedures sought by those 45+ years old. A facelift is a surgical procedure that involves removing excess skin and tightening the underlying facial muscles to reduce wrinkles and sagging in the face and neck. The results can be dramatic, depending on how much skin is removed and what specific areas are targeted.

Eyelid Surgery

The second most popular procedure for those 45+ is eyelid surgery. This procedure involves removing excess skin from the upper and/or lower eyelids to correct sagging and drooping. Depending on the desired outcome, you may only need to do the upper or lower eyelid, though it's common for patients to do both simultaneously.

Brow Lift

Brow lifts are another popular procedure for those seeking both facelifts and eyelid surgery. These procedures are designed to help lift and shape the eyebrows to help make them appear more alert and youthful. 

Botox

Another common procedure among those who've reached retirement age is Botox or Botulinum Toxin injections. These minimally invasive procedures can temporarily reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines on the face. Botox is often used to smooth out wrinkles around the eyes and forehead, but it can also be used to help treat other areas of the face.

Soft Tissue Fillers

Finally, soft tissue fillers are another minimally invasive procedure that's becoming increasingly popular among those who've reached retirement age. These fillers are designed to help plump up areas of the face that have lost volume due to aging. They're used to treat wrinkles, laugh lines, thin lips, and more. [cb1] 

Reach Your Desired Results with the Help of Dr. Binder

Dr. Binder, a leading board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon in the Beverly Hills area, has seen many patients turn to cosmetic procedures to help them feel better about themselves as they enter retirement. 

Whether you're looking to make yourself feel more youthful or simply looking for a way to enhance your look in this new era of life, Dr. Binder can help you achieve your desired look and feel your best.

Contact the office today to schedule a consultation!

 [cb1]Note: The outline didn't say to include these. However, they are listed as some of the most common non-invasive procedures to have. So, I thought it important to include these as well as the 3 invasive ones mentioned above.

Wrinkles are a natural part of aging and can be an unwelcome reminder of the years gone by. But did you know that there's more to wrinkles than just time? Discover the sources of wrinkles to gain control of your skin and find the best wrinkle treatment. 

Unfortunately, there are many myths about what causes wrinkles, including:

• Not using proper skincare products designed to "fight wrinkles."
• Touching your face will lead to wrinkles.
• If both parents have wrinkles, you'll also get them (yes, genetics can play a part, but it's not the only factor).

Don't let myths obscure your understanding of why wrinkles happen; let's look at the facts and discuss how to prevent them.

What Actually Causes Wrinkles?

Wrinkles are a natural part of aging, but a few factors can contribute to wrinkles' appearance. Understanding what causes wrinkles and how to prevent them can help keep your skin looking young, healthy, and vibrant. Some of the most common causes of wrinkles include:

• Sun Damage: Exposure to the sun causes photoaging or premature skin aging. Exposure to UV rays can lead to increased wrinkling and sun spots and can also increase the risk of skin cancer.
• Smoking: Smoking is a major cause of wrinkles and premature skin aging. Smoking causes free radicals to build up in the skin and damage collagen and elastin, which help keep the skin firm.
• Loss of Collagen Production: Over time, the body loses its ability to produce collagen and depends on supplements to provide the necessary protein for building collagen. As this happens, the skin loses its elasticity and becomes more prone to wrinkling.
• Poor Diet: Diets high in simple sugars and sweets can contribute to skin aging by causing the skin's connective tissues to lose elasticity.

5 Tips for Wrinkle Prevention

Of course, while we can’t stop the natural aging process, some everyday practices can help you prevent wrinkles, including: 

1. Cut the Vices: Stop Smoking and Limit Your Alcohol Consumption

Some of the worst things you can do for your skin include smoking and indulging in the overconsumption of alcohol. Quitting smoking is essential, as smoking causes wrinkles and premature aging.

Alcohol causes premature skin aging because it dehydrates the skin, leading to loss of plumpness and enhancing fine lines and wrinkles.

2. Protect Your Skin from the Sun

Protect skin, indoors and out. Sun rays can still do damage, even through windows. Wear a moisturizer with SPF daily to protect your skin.

3. Eat a Well-Balanced Diet

Your diet plays a significant role in your skin's appearance. Eating a well-balanced diet high in vitamins and antioxidants can help your skin look radiant and healthy while eating a diet high in saturated fats and trans fats can have the opposite effect.

4. Gently Cleanse and Moisturize Your Skin

While it is a myth that touching your face will cause wrinkles, it's essential to understand that gently cleansing and moisturizing your skin can help prevent wrinkles. Cleaning your skin washes away pollutants, and gentle treatment stops wrinkles from forming.

5. Find Time to Get Outside and Exercise

Not only does exercise help to improve circulation and boost your immune system, but it can also lead to more youthful skin[cb1] . Even better, getting out and spending time in nature (away from pollutants) can help your skin to stay healthy and vibrant.

Keep Your Face Wrinkle Free with Help from Dr. Binder

For wrinkle-free skin, a good skincare routine is a must. However, if you need additional help maintaining a youthful, wrinkle-free appearance, Dr. Binder offers facial fillers, laser treatments, and chemical peels that can all help to maintain healthy, youthful skin.

Whether you’re looking to reduce wrinkles or maintain a youthful look, Dr. Binder can help you achieve your desired outcome. Contact our office to schedule a consultation today.

 [cb1]Note: This is an older study, but one of the most frequently referenced when discussing the impact of exercise on the skin/in preventing premature skin aging.

Lip fillers are an increasingly popular way to add volume and definition to the lips. While generally a safe and effective procedure, it’s important to take the necessary precautions to avoid lip filler migration. 

Research shows that as of 2020, approximately 3,410,730 soft tissue filler procedures were performed in the U.S., with the vast majority of these (2,619,650) being hyaluronic acid-based fillers such as Juvederm® and Restylane®, both of which are some of the most common fillers used for the lips and face. 

With so many procedures performed yearly, some individuals will inevitably experience lip filler. While this is not a cause for immediate alarm, it is essential to be aware of the potential risks and to take the necessary precautions to avoid lip filler migration.

What is Lip Filler Migration?

Lip filler migration occurs when the injected filler moves away from its intended area and spreads to other areas of the face. This can occur due to the lack of proper technique by the injector or if the filler is injected too deep or in too large of a dose. 

Migration can also occur if the filler is not the correct type for the patient's skin type or if the skin is too thin or too thick for the filler being used. 

What Could Happen if Lip Filler Migration Occurs?

Migration can cause various cosmetic issues, such as asymmetry, lumpiness, and skin discoloration. Additionally, if migration is not addressed promptly, the filler can spread to other areas of the face, resulting in an unnatural look. In rare cases, migration can lead to infection or nerve damage. 

4 Tips for Preventing Lip Filler Migration

Whether you are already scheduled for a lip filler treatment or are still considering lip injections, taking the necessary precautions to prevent lip filler migration is important. Here are four tips to help you avoid the risk of lip filler migration:

1. Finding the Right, Knowledgeable Surgeon

Finding an experienced and qualified practitioner to perform your lip filler injections is essential. A qualified professional thoroughly understands the face’s anatomy, which helps prevent lip filler migration. 

In addition to having the necessary medical knowledge, they should also have a good eye for facial aesthetics and a steady hand. Ask to see before-and-after photos of past patients and ask your practitioner about their experience and qualifications.

2. Ensure the Right Fillers Are Being Used

When discussing the proper lip filler options with your surgeon, it is essential to consider the type of filler being used. Different fillers have different consistencies, which can affect the results of the lip injections. You should also discuss just how much product is being injected, as too much filler can result in an unnatural look. 

3. Follow All Aftercare Instructions

Following the aftercare instructions from your surgeon is essential if you want to avoid lip filler migration. Doing so helps to reduce swelling, minimize the risk of infection and ensure that the fillers remain in the desired position. You should also be aware of any potential signs of complication and speak to your practitioner if any concerns arise.

4. Allow Your Body to Heal

Finally, you need to allow your body to heal after the procedure. Any pain or discomfort should typically resolve within 12-24 hours, while swelling can take several days to a week to subside. If you don't allow your body enough time to heal, you could be left with an unsightly bump or unevenness. 

Lip Fillers Done Safely and Correctly with Dr. Binder

If you’re considering lip fillers, it’s vital to ensure that the procedure is done safely and correctly. Dr. Binder is an experienced and reputable practitioner who can provide the results you’re looking for. 

If you think you may be a good candidate for lip fillers or have questions about your current fillers, contact Dr. Binder's office today to schedule your consultation and get the answers you need.

Do you wake up with a sore jaw or a headache? Do you find yourself clenching or grinding your teeth at night? You could be suffering from a condition known as bruxism or teeth grinding. Fortunately, there are treatments available that can help alleviate the discomfort associated with bruxism, such as Botox. 

Can Botox Help You Stop Grinding Your Teeth?

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is a condition in which a person unconsciously clenches their jaw and grinds their teeth, often at night. It is most commonly caused by stress, anxiety, or an abnormal bite. This can lead to headaches, jaw pain, and even worn down or cracked teeth. If left untreated, bruxism can cause long-term damage to the teeth and gums.

While many patients choose to try a variety of treatments for bruxism, including mouth guards, there are other options available. Recent studies have shown that the muscle-relaxing properties of Botox can be used to alleviate the symptoms of bruxism. 

How Botox Works

Botox is a form of botulinum toxin, a protein produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. It is commonly used in cosmetic treatments to relax facial muscles, improve the appearance of wrinkles, and reduce the appearance of facial lines. It is also used in various medical treatments, including migraine headaches and hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating). 

The botulinum toxin is most effective when injected directly into the affected muscle, which causes it to temporarily paralyze the muscle, preventing it from moving. This prevents the muscle from contracting, which allows it to relax. 

Using Botox to Treat Bruxism

Botox is believed to be a viable treatment for bruxism due to its muscle-relaxing properties. When injected into the masseter muscle (the jaw muscle), it temporarily paralyzes the muscle, preventing it from contracting, which leads to teeth grinding.

Botox treatments for bruxism are typically done in a series of treatments, with follow-up visits to monitor the progress of the treatment. In some cases, a single treatment may be sufficient, while in other cases, multiple treatments may be needed. It is important to follow the instructions provided by your doctor to get the best results. The minimal side effects associated with Botox injections make it a safe and effective treatment option for bruxism. 

Get Help Treating Your Bruxism with Botox Today

Botox treatments for bruxism can be a safe and effective way to reduce symptoms associated with this condition. However, it is important to remember that it is not a cure and preventive measures such as good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are still necessary. If you are suffering from bruxism, talk to your doctor about whether Botox could be a promising treatment option for you.

Dr. Binder is a well-respected cosmetic surgeon known to have revolutionized the modern field of facial contouring. It is his goal to help patients have better self-esteem and confidence by improving their appearance and helping them feel their best.

If you think Botox could help you stop grinding your teeth at night, contact Dr. Binder's office today and schedule a consultation.

Chemical peels reduce wrinkles and are an excellent alternative for anyone who cannot or does not want to endure a surgical procedure for wrinkle reduction treatment. 

You can achieve similar results as those of surgical methods. Although, unlike surgery, peels will require more than one treatment.

How many do you need before you begin to see results? 

Experts agree that the sooner you begin a consistent skin care regimen, the more benefits you will experience, and the fewer facial treatments (like chemical peels) are necessary to achieve the desired results. 

Results won't be immediate. Yet, you can expect to see results in fewer visits than you might think. Let's examine what to expect with a chemical peel treatment.  

What Are Chemical Peels?  

Chemical peels are facial treatments that improve the appearance of wrinkled skin with an acid solution that removes the outermost layer of skin. The skin that replaces the older skin is typically smoother with fewer wrinkles.

Practitioners perform this non-surgical procedure on the same day in the doctor's office on the face, neck, and hands. Fair-haired and light-skinned people experience the best results.

There are some possible risks associated with this procedure. Make sure you discuss these during your initial consultation.    

Other treatment options include:

• Laser resurfacing
• Dermabrasion
• Microdermabrasion
• Laser/light therapy
• Neuromodulators
• Ultrasound therapy
• Fat transfers
• Soft-tissue fillers
• Non-ablative laser resurfacing

If you are familiar with how laser resurfacing works, the process is similar (removing the top layers of skin), with one significant difference; one uses chemicals, and the other uses a laser. The number of treatments can vary as well. 

What You Need to Know Before You Begin Chemical Peel Treatments   

The number of treatments necessary to achieve the desired results can vary by patient. However, typically treatment only requires three to six visits, based on the type of treatment you get and your overall health condition.

There are three depths your doctor will go when doing a chemical peel. Each has a unique treatment method, and the Mayo Clinic published an article to help explain each of these and how your doctor will perform them.

• Light chemical peel
• Medium chemical peel
• Deep chemical peel

The number of visits, types of treatments, and personal health determine how many treatments you will require. Generally speaking, here’s what you can expect during and after your procedure:

During the Procedure  

You may feel a burning sensation during the procedure that typically lasts between five to ten minutes. You will experience mild discomfort, although the doctor can take measures to reduce this. 

It's okay to use a cold compress application during the procedure if you experience pain. Don't suffer through the treatment. Let your doctor know how you are feeling throughout the process. 

Recovery and Pain Management  

Depending on the type of peel, recovery can last from one day (for light peels) to as many as 14 days (deep peels). You may experience soreness, redness, and swelling. These are normal but if you experience severe pain or a break in the skin, contact your doctor's office immediately. You can treat the skin with doctor-approved creams or lotions, and talk to your doctor before taking over-the-counter pain medications.

Begin Treatments Today and See Results Quickly    

Dr. Binder is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon with more than 25 years of experience performing facial treatments with positive outcomes. Restore your self-esteem while combatting the effects of aging. Consider chemical peels to reduce the appearance of facial wrinkles with only a handful of treatments.

Interested in a chemical peel to reduce the appearance of wrinkles? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Binder today.

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer. Sadly, patients diagnosed with any form of skin cancer continue to grow. While skin cancer can appear on any area of the body, 80% occurs on the head, face, and neck. These cancer cells can disfigure the skin and can be extremely dangerous.

If you were recently diagnosed with skin cancer or have a spot on your skin you're concerned about, this guide will answer some of your questions and give you the information you need to know before having a skin cancer procedure. 

Types of Skin Cancers   

There are three types of skin cancers. If the skin cancer is small, doctors can usually do the surgery as an outpatient, same-day procedure.

• Basal Cell Carcinoma   
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma   
• Malignant Melanoma  

What to Expect During the Procedure

Doctors will perform two different procedures based on the size, type, and nature of your cancer. If the cancer is small, the doctor will perform a simple excision. There are additional non-surgical methods, including:

• Cryosurgery (freezing the cancer cells)
• Radiation therapy
• Topical chemotherapy 

For cancers that are larger or have spread to the lymph nodes, a more complex procedure is necessary to remove your skin cancer. They include:

Grafts

This procedure involves transferring skin from one area (the donor site) of the body to cover the area of affected skin the doctor had to remove. 

Flaps

This procedure is more complex but produces better cosmetic results. To perform this surgery, doctors take skin, underlying fat cells, blood vessels, and in some cases, muscle tissue near the skin cancer and move it over the infected area that the doctor just removed. 

Sometimes doctors will have to perform this procedure in stages because they may need to insert balloons under the skin that is expanded over time to encourage the skin to stretch. That ensures enough flap skin to cover the open areas of the skin.

Pre-Op, Post-Op, and Recovery

Before your procedure, your doctor will schedule an appointment to go over your surgical and non-surgical options. Your doctor will then develop a surgical plan that will produce the best results for which type of cancer you have.

During this consultation ask any questions you or your loved ones have regarding your condition and the most appropriate treatment for you.

After your procedure, the most important thing about skin cancer removal is that you use effective skin protection. Keep the area covered when in direct sunlight, and wear sunblock.

Recovering from your procedure will depend on the type of cancer and procedure you had. For many patients, scarring is minimal. An experienced surgeon can conceal most scars from the procedure in the natural folds and contours on your face.

Cancer Doesn’t Wait and Neither Should You     

Dr. Binder and his surgical team understand that you cannot delay treatment when it comes to cancer. Cancer cells can grow quickly and metastasize to other areas of the body. If you have a spot that looks and feels abnormal or changes in size, shape, or appearance, get tested!

If you have been diagnosed with skin cancer, time is of the essence. Contact Dr. Binder's office today to discuss treatment options. 

Did you know that one of the benefits of exercise is that it can enhance the results of your cosmetic procedure? That's right, patients who have had plastic and reconstructive surgical procedures find they experience better surgical outcomes. 

Let's review some of the beauty benefits of working out and what happens when you pair exercise with your cosmetic procedures. First, let's look at the general health benefits of exercising. 

Beauty Benefits of Exercising  

Exercise is good for your mind, body, and spiritual health. Regular exercise helps people maintain their weight, look and feel better, and has many other health and wellness benefits. 

Exercise helps your body fight disease like type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, arthritis, and osteoporosis. It also reduces your chances of having a stroke or developing heart disease.

Along with general health advantages, there are many beauty benefits to working out:

Makes Skin Glow 

Exercise gets your heart pumping, which stimulates blood flow. Increased blood flow sends oxygenated blood to the surface of your skin, giving you a healthy glow. It also ensures that your skin gets all the essential nutrients it needs.

Reduces Stress

Stress takes its toll on the human body. The body is hardwired to react to stress to combat threats from predators or other dangers. It's a natural reaction to the Fight, Flight, or Freeze response, and researchers have linked stress to many chronic conditions and health problems, such as:

• Depression
• Digestive issues
• Weight fluctuations
• Heart Disease
• Inflammation
• Headaches
• Muscle tension and pain
• High blood pressure
• Risk of a stroke
• Sleeping problems
• Memory loss
• Cognitive impairment

Exercise is an excellent way to work off the energy stored in the body from a stress trigger. There is also a chemical reaction in the brain when people work out. The brain releases norepinephrine, a natural element that works as a hormone and a neurotransmitter. 

Working out also relieves many of the symptoms stress has on your body. For example, exercise improves sleep patterns, concentration, and cognitive reasoning.

Not to mention exercise has numerous psychological benefits. These relieve stress and improve results when you have a cosmetic procedure.

Pairing Exercise With Cosmetic Procedures for the Best Results  

Pairing exercises with some cosmetic procedures can improve your surgical results. For example, a proper diet with adequate nutrition and working out can help make your face look even more sculpted and refined after a tumescent liposuction procedure. 

Working out can also reduce recovery time by promoting blood flow and circulation. The current U.S. guidelines for exercise include engaging in at least one of the following weekly:

• No less than 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity
• At least 150 to 300 minutes of moderately intense exercises
• A combination of either of the above for a minimum of 300 minutes

Consult With Your Doctor Before Beginning a New Routine      

While exercise has many health benefits, there are some things to consider when choosing the right workout regimen. First, you must consult with your doctor. 

If you have recently had a cosmetic procedure, wait until your doctor clears you to work out. Not waiting can have adverse health effects and can impair your cosmetic results. 

Dr. Binder and his surgical team can answer any questions regarding exercise and how they can help you recover (and improve results) from the cosmetic procedures he performs. Never hesitate to call.

Getting a facelift can produce some amazing results. You get smoother, tighter skin that has a more youthful appearance. 

A facelift diminishes the look and depth of your wrinkles. However, you don't always have to get a facelift procedure to get these kinds of results. 

There are some facial exercises you can do to help lift your face naturally. Consider trying them before getting a facelift.

5 Facial Exercises That Help Lift Your Face Naturally   

Try these five exercises to tighten and sculpt the face naturally:

1. Face Burpee

If you have ever done (or seen) a traditional burpee, you know that this exercise is all about all-over strength training. The difference is that this works the muscles of your entire face.

To do:

• Using your fingers as resistance, push your eyebrows in
• Simultaneously, push them up for five seconds (this isolates and defines those muscles)
• Grab a jade roller — a foam roller for your face — and roll over your skin
• Do this for five minutes as part of your "cool down"

2.  Upper-Eye Exercise

Facial fitness experts recommend this exercise to anyone looking for an exercise that will give their upper-eye area a boost. It's simple and feels amazing.

To do:

• Place three fingers from each hand
• Position them under your eyebrows
• Push brows straight up
• Looking straight ahead, push down against the fingertips using forehead muscles
• Hold for ten seconds
• After seven seconds, close your eyes keeping your brows high
• Relax and repeat for a total of three

3. Under-Eye Exercise

The area under your eye is one of the most sensitive places on your face. The skin isn't as thick as elsewhere on the face, but it's still vital to exercise that region.

To do:

• Look up and close your eyes by first raising the lower lids (should look like a glare)
• Hold that position for five seconds
• Release and repeat for a total of three times

4. Crow's Feet Exercise

People with crow's feet often got them from a combination of laughing or smiling and aging skin. As your skin begins to go through gradual changes, the wrinkles begin to set into the skin over time, giving the appearance of cracks in the skin. These exercises help smooth out the skin on the outer corners of your eyes. 

To do:

• Place your thumb pads on the bones at your eyes' outer corners
• Look up, gently pressing your thumb toward the eyes (without moving the head)
• Flutter eyelids for five seconds
• Release and repeat for a total of four times

5. Jaw-Tightening Exercise

As people begin to age, the skin along their jawlines begins to droop, and constantly staring down at your phone or tablet contributes to that. Experts say that jowl-tightening exercises may help. 

To do:

• Lift chin to form a taut line between your clavicle and chin (careful not to hyperextend the neck)
• Turn your head to one side and look over that shoulder
• Turn to look behind you
• Stick out your jaw
• Keep that position for five seconds
• Release, and slowly return to the first position
• Repeat for a total of four times per side

Get the Lift You Want With Dr. Binder    

The trick to success with these exercises is consistency, proper hydration, and realistic expectations. Nothing will get you the same result as a cosmetic procedure. If you’re still unhappy with the appearance of your face, Dr. Binder can provide a free consultation to discuss your options.