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Most people know to expect soreness and swelling after their rhinoplasty surgery, but one particular after-effect often takes patients by surprise. A few weeks after surgery, many patients are shocked to discover that the skin on their nose, especially around the tip of the nose, feels hard or firm. While not all patients experience this phenomenon, it is a relatively common, but rarely permanent, side effect of rhinoplasty surgery.

What Causes Hardened Skin after Rhinoplasty?

There are two major reasons for the skin on the nose to feel hard after rhinoplasty, but neither has to do with the skin itself. The hardness does not actually reflect a change in the skin, but rather the tissue underneath.

Edema (swelling caused by liquid under the skin) is the most common cause of hardness in the months directly following surgery. Built up scar tissue, however, does not fade so quickly, causing long term, even permanent, feelings of hardness. These two things generally cause a greater feeling of hardness for patients who already had thick skin on their nose.

How Long after Surgery Does Hardened Skin Last?

While the sensation of hard-feeling skin can be off-putting for patients, this hard skin is typically neither visible nor permanent. The nose, especially the tip, will remain hard for several months after surgery, after which the tissue will begin to soften as the remaining swelling fades. It will, however, not reach full softness until about a year after surgery.

It is recommended that patients wait one to two years after their rhinoplasty before seeking treatment for their hardened tissue or a revision rhinoplasty because tissue may soften, results can change during this time period, and surgical techniques are more difficult when the surgeon has to work around hard scar tissue.

Treating Persistent Hardened Skin

If you still experience hardened skin two or more years after your rhinoplasty, there are several treatment options. The two most common are steroid injections and revision rhinoplasty. The medication in steroid injections is very successful in breaking down scar tissue and is not particularly invasive.

Revision rhinoplasty, on the other hand, requires the surgical removal of built up scar tissue. This allows for more extensive changes than steroid injections and allows the surgeon to address any cosmetic issues the patient has after their surgery; but if not conducted in a delicate manner, revision rhinoplasty can lead to even more build up of scar tissue.

For this reason, it is important that the patient choose a skilled doctor with ample experience in detailed rhinoplasty surgery. Patients should always look at their prospective surgeons’ patient reviews and before and after photos to ensure that their surgical experience will leave them with the results they want.

Preventing Hardened Skin

Unfortunately, there is little the patient can do themselves to prevent hardened skin after their rhinoplasty surgery. However, the right plastic surgeon can minimize hardness by minimizing swelling and scar tissue, so it is important that the patient takes the time and effort to carefully select an experienced plastic surgeon. This is also true, perhaps even more so, for patients seeking a revision rhinoplasty, as hard scar tissue complicates the surgical process.

Dr. William J. Binder

Dr. William J. Binder is one such surgeon whose office is conveniently located in Beverly Hills. Not only is Dr. Binder skilled and experienced, he’s a facial and reconstructive plastic surgery specialist, and one of the world’s leading plastic surgeons; he has multiple patents, extensive published works, and board certifications from both the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery.

Whether you want your hardened skin treated, or are planning an initial rhinoplasty procedure and hope to avoid hardened skin altogether, Dr. Binder is heads above the rest. Contact his office today to schedule your consultation.

No one gets plastic surgery expecting to have to modify their results, but nonetheless it sometimes happens. The most common revision surgeries are scar revision and revision rhinoplasty, but virtually any plastic surgery procedure can be revised. There are a number of reasons why patients might feel the need to undergo revision surgery.

Displeasure with Aesthetic Results

Sometimes plastic surgery patients simply do not get the aesthetic results they were hoping for out of plastic surgery. Sometimes this is because the patient did not have realistic expectations about what plastic surgery can achieve or because of an unskilled plastic surgeon, but often this occurs because of miscommunication between the doctor and the patient.

Excessive Scarring

Virtually any plastic surgery will leave some scarring, but usually the scarring is thin, minimal, and not easily visible. In some cases, however, scarring can be obvious, turning what would have been beautiful results into something displeasing and unsatisfactory. This can be due to a variety of different things, including improper surgical technique, or complications such as an infection during healing.

Change in Results

In other cases, the appearance of results simply change. This change can be due to any number of things, including aging, weight gain or loss, or trauma to the site of the surgery. Aging and weight loss can partially or fully reverse the results of surgery or simply change the contours and proportions of the face, making plastic surgery results that previously looked wonderful appear less than beautiful. Trauma can damage or move implants and delicate tissue, causing not only aesthetic concerns, but also potential health problems.

Functional Problems

Functional issues after plastic surgery are rare, but are most common after rhinoplasty. In some cases, rhinoplasty can result in obstruction in one or both of the nasal passages, significantly impairing the patient’s ability to breath and often, by extension, to get adequate sleep.

Choosing the Right Plastic Surgeon for Your Revision Surgery

Choosing the right plastic surgeon for revision plastic surgery is just as important as choosing the right plastic surgeon for your initial cosmetic surgery procedure, and is imperative in ensuring satisfaction with the results of the revision surgery. The reasons patients seek revision surgery often mean that the surgeon who conducts the procedure needs to be highly skilled and very experienced. Ideally, patients are able to seek out a surgeon who specializes in revision and reconstruction procedures. Specialized plastic surgeons are able to give patients far better results than their more generalized peers because specialists have unique knowledge and experiences about revision procedures.

Dr. William J. Binder

One revision and reconstruction plastic surgery specialist, who also happens to be one of the world’s leading plastic surgeons, happens to be located in Los Angeles. Dr. Binder has a passion for educating patients and helping them meet their aesthetic goals, whether through an initial procedure or as part of a revision surgery. Dr. Binder is well-known and respected among members of his field. He is board certified by not only the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, but also the American Board of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, demonstrating his impressive knowledge of the medical aspects of cosmetic surgery – not just the aesthetic aspects. If you are unhappy with the results of your plastic surgery, regardless of the reason, there is no reason to live with these displeasing results, and there is no reason to settle for anyone but the best possible surgeon. Dr. Binder’s office is accepting consultations, so contact us today so that you can schedule your appointment and get the look you have been hoping for.

Does your skin have fine lines, age spots, acne scars, or other issues that you’d like to clear up? Cosmetic facial treatments can help improve the look and feel of your skin. Since each cosmetic facial treatment is designed to work out a specific problem spot, here’s a quick look at the top seven most popular cosmetic facial treatments and what they can help you with.

1. Botox

Botox injections block certain chemical signals from nerves, mostly those that cause muscles to contract. The most common use for these injections is to temporarily relax the facial muscles that underlie and cause wrinkles, such as:

• Frown lines between the eyebrows
• Crow’s feet
• Forehead furrows

During your treatment, you doctor will inject small amounts of Botox into the facial muscles (just enough to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles) using a very thin needle. You doctor will target specific muscles so the surrounding skin isn’t affected. The number of injection sites varies depending on the severity of your wrinkles, but treatment generally takes about 15 minutes and doesn’t require any recovery time. Results from Botox injections usually last several months.

2. Chemical Peel

A chemical peel is a treatment that uses a chemical solution, which is applied to the skin in order to make it blister and eventually peel off. The new skin is usually smoother and less wrinkled than the old skin. Chemical peels can help:

• Reduce fine lines and wrinkles
• Treat wrinkles caused by sun damage and aging
• Improve the appearance of mild scars
• Treat certain types of acne
• Reduce age spots, freckles, and dark patches
• Improve the overall look and feel of skin

Chemical peels range from mild to deep. The best type for you will depend on the severity of your skin problems. Mild peels use alpha-hydroxy acids, while medium peels use trichloroacetic acid; both of which will reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Deeper peels use phenol, which treats deeper scars and wrinkles, and can produce a much more dramatic and long-lasting effect than mild or medium peels.

3. Laser Skin Resurfacing

Laser skin resurfacing is a treatment that directs short, concentrated pulsating beams of light at irregular skin, precisely removing skin layer by layer, while also heating up deeper layers. This treatment can help reduce wrinkles and skin irregularities, such as blemishes or acne scars. Results from this treatment can last for years.

4. Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion is an exfoliating treatment that uses a rotating instrument to remove the outer layers of skin, exposing new layers of skin that appear younger and smoother. Dermabrasion can help treat:

• Acne scars
• Age spots
• Fine wrinkles
• Precancerous skin patches
• Redness and thick skin on the nose (rhinophyma)
• Scars from surgery or injury
• Sun damage
• Tattoos
• Uneven skin tone

5. Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion is a mild form of dermabrasion that uses the application of tiny rough grains to buff away the surface layer of skin. The healing process brings with it newer skin cells that look and feel smoother. Microdermabrasion can help:

• Remove sun damage
• Remove blemishes
• Remove age spots
• Reduce the appearance of minor lines or scars
• Clean out clogged pores
• Even out discolored skin

This treatment usually takes about 30 minutes and requires no recovery time. However, most people need several treatments before they see improvement. The results of this treatment depend on the severity of the skin damage and the number of treatments.

6. Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are a naturally-derived or synthetic material that is directly injected into the skin in order to plump the area to the point where the wrinkle, depression, or fold is gone. There are two primary groups of dermal fillers: synthetic and natural. Synthetic fillers—are considered semi-permanent because they don’t really dissipate. Naturally-derived fillers—are immediate but will only last for three to 18 months because the filler eventually breaks down, taking the results with it. Once the filler starts to dissipate, you’ll need to go back and get more filler injections to maintain results.

7. Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal beams a highly concentrated light into the hair follicles. Pigments in the follicles absorb the light, which destroys the hair. Laser hair removal can be done on the face, leg, arm, underarm, bikini line, and other areas. Some of the benefits of laser hair removal include:

• Precision
• Speed
• Predictability

This treatment works best on light skin with dark hair because darker hair absorbs more light, and lighter skin lets more of the light into the hair follicle. Hair loss is typically permanent after three to eight sessions.

Book a Facial Treatment Consultation

No matter what you think might be the best treatment option for you, be sure to consult with Dr. Binder before booking your desired treatment.

A huge part of what makes the world so amazing is that each person on it is unique in both their looks and personality. So why do so many doctors still use cookie cutter facial implants?

About Custom Facial Implants

Facial implants are usually used for the chin, cheeks, or jaw, or any combination of these, as part of augmentation surgery, often along with other augmentation techniques such as liposuction, fat grafting, and bone augmentation. Facial augmentation surgery is typically performed for cosmetic reasons, but may also be reconstructive.

Custom vs. Standard Facial Implants

Facial implants can be custom or standard. Custom implants are made specifically for the patient and are designed to give them the best possible results based on their individual desires and facial structure. Alternatively, standard facial implants may also be used. These types of implants are made with human facial anatomy in mind, but not that of the specific patient. This difference in customization can affect the patient’s experience in a variety of ways.

Standard facial implants are cheaper than custom facial implants, often significantly so. However, standard implants cannot provide the natural appearance that custom implants can, as custom implants are made specifically to fit the individual patient’s anatomy. Custom implants allow your plastic surgeon to balance the features you want augmented so the size is proportional and the shape blends with the rest of the face. Custom facial implants are also able to give patients who are undergoing a reconstructive procedure an appearance much more similar to the appearance of the patient before their trauma.

Good Candidates for Custom Implants

Facial implants are an excellent choice for people who have a weak or receding chin or jaw line, want to add definition to their cheeks, or naturally suffer from some sort of facial asymmetry, as well as patients who have asymmetry, deformity, or tissue degradation resulting from an injury, disease, or other trauma or ailment.

In addition to having the above issues, good candidates for custom facial implant surgery are in good general health; ideally do not smoke or regularly come into contact with second hand smoke; and have a positive, specific, and realistic expectation for what cosmetic surgery can do for them. It’s important to disclose your medical history, especially your dental history and your history with anesthesia, to your doctor so that they may determine whether or not you qualify for facial implants.

While, like almost all plastic surgeries, facial implant surgery is far more likely to be undergone by women, men are the fastest growing demographic of plastic surgery patients and facial implant surgery is one of the most common plastic surgeries for men. Usually men choose to undergo chin and jaw augmentation to achieve a cleft or simply a stronger jaw line; an increasing number are also opting for cheek augmentation to achieve the look popularized by celebrities like Benedict Cumberbatch and Tom Hiddleston.

Alternatives to Custom Implants

Patients who find that they are not eligible for custom implants or that custom implants won’t solve their issue adequately are not out of luck. There are a number of alternative cosmetic procedures that can also be undergone. If you’re looking for a more youthful appearance, lifts, such a brow, face, and eye lifts, as well as dermal fillers and skin resurfacing treatments can help restore that youthful glow; though non-surgical treatments cannot provide the same results as surgical procedures and the results are not permanent. Lifts can also help give the face a more contoured look by removing excess sagging skin. Facial liposuction can do the same through the removal of excess fat.

All of these procedures can also be, and often are, performed in conjunction with custom implant surgery to give a more comprehensive and thorough change in appearance. During your consultation, ask your plastic surgeon if additional treatments can help give you better results.

Choosing the Right Plastic Surgeon

Dr. Binder is a double board certified facial and reconstructive plastic surgery specialist located in Beverly Hills. In addition to working with patients, who give him outstanding reviews, Dr. Binder also travels the country and world to provide training and education to other plastic surgeons.

If you’re interested in custom facial implant surgery or any other cosmetic procedure, contact Dr. Binder’s office today to schedule your consultation.

As we age, the face and neck begin to sag and crease, giving the neck, cheeks, and under eyes a droopy appearance; creating the illusion of a double chin, causing the neck muscles to band, and wrinkling under the eyes and from the corners of the mouth to the nose. This happens to all of us, but the rate and age at which it happens varies from person to person based on genetics, gravity, environment, and stress. Rejuvenation procedures like facelifts and neck lifts can help to reverse this process.

There are many misconceptions about facelifts and neck lifts that cause people to be wary of them, the most common of which is that patients who undergo facelifts and neck lifts end up with a tight, “stretched,” and unnatural looking appearance. It is true that on occasion, old facelift and neck lift techniques could give these kinds of results, but these results were extremely rare. Now, with new more effective techniques, artificial looking results are virtually unheard of, especially when the procedure is conducted by a highly skilled plastic surgeon.

About Facelift and Neck Lift Surgeries

Facelift surgery is used to correct signs of aging in the lower portion of the face, in the areas roughly level with the nose and mouth. In order to do so, a plastic surgeon begins incisions at the temple and continues down in front in the ear, below it, and then back behind the ear. The skin is then gently moved to tighten up sags and wrinkles. Excess skin and fat may be removed to create a smoother, more youthful final result. Incisions are closed with fine sutures or metal clips, allowing the surgeon to avoid shaving the incision site.

Neck lift surgery uses a similar process to tighten up sagging and correct muscle banding in the neck. Incisions for neck lifts begin similarly to those used for facelifts, going from the temple down in front of the ear, then curling below and behind the ear. For some neck lift procedures, these incisions may be all that’s needed and the skin can be repositioned. For others, additional incisions may be made below the jaw-line for further repositioning of the skin. Like with facelift surgery, excess skin and fat may also be removed. Incisions are closed with sutures.

Both procedures are performed under a combination of sedatives, general or mild intravenous anesthesia (“twilight sleep”), and local anesthesia. Incisions for both procedures are placed in natural contours of the face so that they are almost invisible.

Which Lift is Right for Me?

Though facelifts and neck lifts can be performed individually if patients are happy with the appearance of their lower face or neck, they can also be performed together. In fact, having both performed gives better results. This is especially true if the procedures are conducted simultaneously as it allows the surgeon to take a more holistic approach and create a more unified appearance.

Many patients interested in facelift and neck lift surgeries claim that their physical appearance does not match their mental age. Good candidates for either a facelift or neck lift are unhappy with the aging appearance of the area in question, have no health issues that could impede healing or cause complications during surgery, do not smoke (or can abstain from smoking for an agreed period of time), and have optimistic and realistic expectations for what their surgery can achieve. While these procedures can reverse signs of aging, they do not stop the aging process altogether. Patients will continue to develop symptoms of aging.

Additional Procedures

Because facelifts don’t modify the entire face, other procedures are often performed in conjunction with face and neck lifts in order to tighten up the brow and eye areas, in addition to giving more dramatic and comprehensive results in general.

If the upper area of the face only needs minimal improvement, dermal fillers and skin resurfacing treatments like chemical peels and microdermabrasion can be used to correct minor wrinkles, scarring, under eye bags and dark circles, and discoloration. However, the effects of these treatments are temporary and they can’t rival the results of surgical treatments, though they can prolong the need for them. Non-surgical procedures can also serve as alternatives for patients whose health does not allow them to undergo surgery.

Additional surgeries can also be performed in conjunction with facelifts and neck lifts. For more significant revision of the upper part of the face, patients may want to consider blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), brow and forehead lifts, or a combination of these. Surgeries can also be used to enhance the results of facelifts and neck lifts. Facial liposuction and fat grafting can be used, especially on the neck, to remove fatty deposits and bags. Facial implants and rhinoplasty can be used to provide additional augmentation to create a more pleasant appearance in general, or as reconstructive procedures following illness or an accident.

The Right Plastic Surgeon for Your Face or Neck Lift

Dr. William J. Binder is a double board certified facial and reconstructive plastic surgery specialist and one of the world’s leading plastic surgeons, with an office in Beverly Hills. If you want your lift procedure performed by one of the best, contact Dr. Binder’s office today to schedule your consultation.

Liposuction, also referred to as liposculpture or liposplasty, is one of the most common plastic surgeries available and is usually used to thin and contour the body. However, liposuction, particularly tumescent liposuction, also has major applications for use on the face and neck.

Why Facial Liposuction?

Just like liposuction on the body thins, shapes, and contours, facial liposuction does the same. Facial liposuction can improve the appearance of the chin, jaw, cheeks and neck without the use of more expensive and invasive plastic surgeries such as facial implants or lifts. Facial liposuction is also great for patients seeking less dramatic facial augmentation. On the other hand, patients seeking dramatic results can choose to have facial liposuction performed alongside other procedures, including facial implants and lifts, to produce a more significant change in appearance.

Tumescent Liposuction Surgery

Tumescent liposuction is a particular liposuction technique. This procedure involves the use of more anesthetic than other liposuction procedures; this not only reduces pain, but also bleeding, swelling, and skin irregularities, resulting in a shorter, easier recovery period. At the beginning of the procedure, a solution of anesthetic and epinephrine is injected into the surgical site. This solution absorbs into fat deposits, causing them to firm and swell, making them easier for the surgeon to remove.

Once the fatty areas have swollen, the surgeon makes a small incision over the deposit and inserts a thin tube called a cannula into the fat deposit. The cannula is attached to a vacuum like machine that sucks the fat out into a sterile holding container. After suction is complete, an elastic compression garment may be worn to support the area while it heals and contracts. Your doctor will be able to tell you how long and how often this garment needs to be worn.

Facial Tumescent Liposuction Results

Swelling will occur for several days following the procedure, making the face look even rounder than it did prior to surgery. Improvement will begin to appear in one to two weeks following surgery. Full results of facial tumescent liposuction take at least three to four months to appear, but may take up to six months.

Choosing the Right Plastic Surgeon for Your Tumescent Liposuction Procedure

When choosing a plastic surgeon for any facial plastic surgery procedure, including tumescent liposuction, a plastic surgeon who specializes in facial plastic surgery is the best choice. These surgeons are trained and experienced in the techniques that best suit the face and avoid scarring. Less specialized surgeons simply are not able to achieve the same excellent results as facial surgery specialists, and they are also significantly more likely to leave visible scarring at the surgical site.

Fortunately, one of the world’s leading plastic surgeons, who also happens to specialize in facial plastic surgery, receives both local and visiting patients in his conveniently located office in the Los Angeles and Beverly Hills area.

Dr. William J. Binder is certified by not only the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, but also by the American Board of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery; he regularly travels around both the United States and the world to educate and train other plastic surgeons. His extensive experience is further evidenced his many published academic articles and 10 global and United States patents on medical and surgical devices and pharmaceuticals.

Dr. Binder has a passion for giving patients the best possible results by educating them and taking the time to understand their goals. If you want your tumescent liposuction done one of the world’s leading facial plastic surgery specialists, act now. Do not wait and contact the office of Dr. Binder today to schedule your consultation and start on your journey to a look you love.

There are many different types of dermal fillers that can be injected into your lips and around your mouth to give you fuller, plumper looking lips. Here’s a look at some of the lip injection options that are on the market and how they differ from each other.

Human-Derived Collagen Fillers

Human-derived collagen comes from people, such as the excess skin removed during surgeries. The biocompatibility of human-derived collagen means that there is no need for allergy testing before the treatment. This makes this type of dermal filler a great option for those who are allergic to bovine collagen. Human-derived collagen fillers include:

• Dermalogen
• Cymetra
• Autologen
• Fascian
• Cosmoderm
• Cosmoplast

Bovine-Derived Collagen Fillers

Bovine-derived collagen comes from the tissue of cows that have been raised in constantly monitored, disease-free herds. An allergy test is required before receiving this type of lip filler because there is a 3% chance of an allergic reaction. This type of lip filler was the first type of temporary filler used for cosmetic enhancement. Injectable lip fillers that are bovine-derived include:

• Zyderm
• Zyplast
• Artecoll

Hyaluronic Acid-Based Lip Fillers

Hyaluronic acid is a clear, biodegradable substance that naturally grows in the body’s joints and skin. Hyaluronic acid binds well with water molecules, which allows hyaluronic acid-based fillers to not only plump the lips and provide a longer-lasting result than collagen fillers, but also to moisturize them. Hyaluronic acid products can come in different thicknesses or viscosities, making them a versatile choice for treating different areas of the face, including lips. A thinner product would be well suited for fixing fine lines and wrinkles, or for subtly enhancing the lips. A thicker product would be better suited to addressing volume loss and very deep wrinkles. Since hyaluronic acid is naturally found in the human body, there is no need for a pre-treatment allergy test, and the effects can last between six to 12 months. Some of the hyaluronic acid-based lip fillers on the market are:

• Restylane (L and Silk)
• Perlane
• Radiesse
• Juvederm (Ultra and Ultra Plus)
• Hylaform
• Elevess
• Prevelle Silk
• Captique
• Teosyal
• Belotero

Permanent Fillers

Permanent fillers or non-resorbable fillers are not as commonly used as temporary fillers (such as collagen-based fillers and hyaluronic acid-based fillers) because of their longer-lasting effect. It is often recommended that you first try out a temporary filler so that you can make sure you are happy with the results. There is no going back once you’ve had a permanent filler injection. If you do decide to go with a permanent filler, it is important that you make sure that your doctor is very experienced with them, because most complications occur as a result of the product not being injected correctly. The main permanent fillers on the market are:

• Artecoll
• Artefill
• Aquamid

Fat Transfer Injections

Fat transfer injections are a great alternative for patients who don’t want to put foreign substances in their body. While most other lip fillers are derived from an animal or human donor tissue, fat transfer utilizes your own body’s tissue, giving you soft, natural-looking results. Since fat transfers use your own natural tissue, rejection or allergic reactions rarely occur. One of the downsides to fat transfer injections is that some of the fat cells die during transfer. An experienced doctor will try to prevent this from happening by injecting the fat in intervals, rather than all at once. Some of the possible side effects that can affect the area from which the fat was taken or the injection site include:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Swelling
• Minor discomfort

Book an Appointment

Before you set your heart on any of the lip injection options available to you, you should first consult with your doctor. Book a consultation with Dr. Binder so that he can answer any questions or concerns that you might have about the different types of lip injections. With his knowledge and experience, he will help you make the best choice about which lip filler will work best for you.

You’ve finally done it. You’ve decided to get rhinoplasty surgery. Yet, you’re a little apprehensive because you aren’t sure what precautions you need to take before your surgery, and you have no idea what you need to account for when it comes to post-operative care. Here’s what you need to know when it comes to taking care of yourself before and after rhinoplasty surgery.

Preparing for Rhinoplasty

Before scheduling your rhinoplasty surgery, it is important that you meet with your doctor to discuss important factors that determine whether the surgery is likely to work well for you. This consultation can normally include:

• Your medical history—your doctor will ask questions about your medical history, such as your history of nasal obstruction, surgeries, medications that you take, and if you have a bleeding disorder (i.e. hemophilia)
• A physical exam—your doctor will conduct a full medical exam, including any necessary laboratory tests. They will also examine your skin and the inside and outside of your nose. This physical exam will help your doctor determine what changes need to be made and how your physical features may affect your results. The exam is also crucial for determining the impact of rhinoplasty on your breathing.
• Photographs—pictures of your nose (from several different angles) may be taken in order for your doctor to manipulate those photos in order to show you the kind of results that are possible. Your doctor will also use these photos for before-and-after assessments, to reference during surgery, and for long-term reviews.
• A discussion of your expectations—your doctor will explain what rhinoplasty can and can’t do for you and what your results might be. It is important that you are open with your doctor about your desires and goals for surgery. That way, both of you will be on the same page.

The Countdown to Your Rhinoplasty

In the weeks prior to your surgery, you should begin taking precautions to make sure that your operation runs smoothly and that you’re prepared for your post-operative care. Here is a check list of things that you should do before your operation:

• Don’t take aspirin or anti-inflammatory medications
• Quit smoking two weeks before your surgery
• Obtain a copy of your doctor’s protocol
• Make arrangements for someone to drive you to and from your surgery
• Fill prescriptions (especially pain medications and antibiotics) before surgery
• Consider a pill case with a time chart for medications
• Purchase a thermometer, antibacterial soap, dressings, and gauze
• Set up your recovery area at home
• Black out windows so you can rest during the day
• Prepare icepacks
• Purchase moisturizers, scar reducing creams, and petroleum jelly for incisions (if open surgery)
• Purchase eye drops (eyes can be dry after any surgery)
• Consider a handheld shower head and bathroom chair
• On the day of surgery, wear loose clothing
• Follow your doctor’s directions carefully regarding medications, eating, and drinking

After Rhinoplasty Care

Since rhinoplasty is one of the most complicated forms of facial plastic surgery, it is extremely important that you follow your doctor’s post-operative instructions conscientiously. These instructions will also help minimize pain and discomfort during your recovery. Your doctor’s instructions can include:

• Stay hydrated
• Use cold compresses to reduce swelling
• Rest as often as possible
• Avoid strenuous activities and exercise

The first 24 hours after rhinoplasty surgery is often the most difficult part of the recovery period. During this time, you may experience some normal side effects, such as:

• Headaches
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Nosebleeds

It is important to note that, while nosebleeds are common (especially in the first 48 hours after surgery), you shouldn’t blow your nose as this can adversely affect the rhinoplasty results. You should be able to return to work and a more normalized routine one week after receiving rhinoplasty. However, you will still have to be careful to avoid strenuous activities, waiting until two weeks after your surgery to participate in sports or return to weight lifting. You shouldn’t participate in any activity that may result in a blow to the nose for approximately eight weeks.

Consult with Dr. Binder

Before booking rhinoplasty surgery, you should consult with a qualified doctor. Book a consultation with Dr. Binder today. With years of experience in his field, he has the knowledge and know-how to help you make the right decision when it comes to your rhinoplasty needs.

Human skin is a study in contradictions. It’s our barrier to the world and yet it reacts to every stimulus with which it comes into contact. How do we protect the outer layer of our body while promoting its natural glow and vulnerability? 1) Hydrate Inside and Out As refreshing as a cool blast of water feels on your face, just imagine how the rest of your cells feel when you drink it. Our bodies are predominantly comprised of liquids, so it’s important to maintain a healthy balance of H2O in your system. Staying hydrated serves several functions when it comes to the health of your skin: it replenishes damaged cells, regulates your body temperature and heart rate, and flushes impurities from your body. So enjoy a nice, tall glass of agua with your next shower! 2) Cleansing: Keep It Cool Speaking of showers, don’t get overheated. Excessively hot water can dry out your skin, so be mindful of the temperature and always be gentle. There is no need for heavy pressure while cleansing. You don’t require anything but your hands for this step, although you may choose to use a washcloth. 3) Massage Products into Your Skin Gradually While your doctor will encourage you to use moisturizer after cleansing, it’s also important to consider exactly HOW you apply these products. Massage the cream into your flesh in an upward motion, gently working it into the epidermal layer. This is important for all body types, as this is the step that feeds your skin. 4) When Life Hands You Lemons, Eat Them! Citrus snacks nourish your liver and kidney, which in turn helps replenish your skin’s vitality. Along the way, Vitamin C also prevents wrinkles. Win-win! 5) Exercise for That Extra Glow Aerobic activities have myriad benefits for the enduring health of your skin:

• Exercise releases endorphins, which reduces cortisol, an acne-forming agent.
• It also increases blood flow, which brings more oxygen to your cells.
• Vigorous movement amplifies your body’s natural production of collagen, the protein central to maintaining your skin’s elasticity and firmness.
• Sweating opens your pores, flushing out toxins in the process (but be sure to shower after you work up that sweat).

6) Got Chocolate? Now that you’ve burned those calories, you’ve earned a chance to gain them back! Dark chocolate contains antioxidants, which reduce blemish-inducing toxins. A snack can also make you happy, and happiness promotes endorphins (see the exercise example above)! 7) Have Some Wine with Your Chocolate Another decadent treat that promotes healthy skin: a glass of red wine. When consumed in moderation, the antioxidants in vino serve up a bevy of health benefits. As always, drink responsibly and consult a professional if you think you are developing a dependence on alcohol. 8) Mask Maintenance Use masks every one or two weeks to detoxify, renew, and tighten your pores. Before you apply a facial mask, it is important to cleanse and tone. Be sure to leave the mask on your skin for five to 20 minutes, depending on the type you’re using. Gently and thoroughly remove the mask with warm water, and then tone and moisturize your face and neck. 9) Tea Time Much like water (see above), tea is a mystical skincare product that can be applied externally as well as taken internally. By drinking chamomile tea, you ingest quercetin, a flavonoid (plant pigment) that bolsters your skin’s natural defense against the harmful UV rays of the sun. Other teas boost your immune system (thus guarding against diseases that could sap your skin’s healthy pallor) and aid in digestion (drawing toxins away from your epidermis). Once you’re done brewing all of those delicious concoctions, save the bags and re-use them for additional skin love. The caffeine in tea shrinks the blood vessels under your epidermis and reduces the bags under your eyes, for example. You can also reach for a cool tea compress to alleviate sunburn pain. Speaking of which… 10) Don’t Skimp on the Sunscreen This should go without saying, but the sun accelerates the aging process with every minute of exposure to its searing heat. Avoid the worst of these ravages by applying sunblock EVERY time you go outside. 11) Go Nuts! Almonds are packed with Vitamin E and “good” fats like omega 3’s, all of which promote skin health. Not to mention, they’re loaded with protein that can help you stay active, thus feeding into your overall health even more. 12) Exfoliate with a Gentle Brush The right brush can stimulate blood flow to the epidermis and exfoliate your skin as it goes. Use circular, upward, gentle motions with very gentle products. Remember that you are simply exfoliating dead skin, which takes very little pressure. Abrasive loofahs or shell powder-based exfoliants are not necessary. Remember to exfoliate your skin no more than every three to five days. 13) Reduce Makeup Use Now that you’ve got your skin looking fresh and fierce, why cover it up? Excessive makeup clogs your pores and hinders the various successes you’ve achieved with the previous 12 steps. If you have any questions or concerns about how to properly care for your facial skin, be sure to schedule a consultation with Dr. Binder. He can advise you on any cosmetic procedures you may want to enhance the healthy glow you’ve just attained, and keep you looking your best for years to come. The 6 Products You Need in Your Skincare Routine:

1. 1. Cleanser A good cleanser sets the stage for your whole routine. Ultimately, your cleanser should be gentle, water-soluble, and able to remove makeup. Avoid using anything with soap in it (soap’s pH level is too basic and will dry out your skin). When it comes to finding the best cleanser, let your unique skin be your guide and choose a product designed to target your primary skin concern (acne, dryness, oiliness, or sensitivity).
   2. Toner Toner often gets dismissed as overkill, but as part of a comprehensive skincare routine, a toner is actually pretty crucial. Not only does it remove any oil or makeup residue, it also preps your cleansed skin to receive whatever treatments you put on next. Choose a gentle, non-alcohol based formula with skin-repairing ingredients, as well as calming and anti-inflammatory properties.
   3. Exfoliator The best ways to go about exfoliating your face is to either use a cleanser with chemical exfoliants in it or a dedicated physical exfoliator. Either way, you should only use this product about two times a week. Chemical exfoliators are best for sensitive skin, and physical ones (with gritty bits) are good for occasional use if your skin is on the dry and flaky side.
   4. Serums Packed full of active ingredients, serums are for brightening, repairing, evening, smoothing texture, hydrating, and anti-aging. Some have multiple purposes and some are singular in the way that they work. You can layer serums or pick just one to focus on your biggest skin concern.
   5. Targeted treatments These are generally used for treating blemishes, dark spots, and physical symptoms of skin conditions like eczema. They usually have powerful ingredients that should be used sparingly and (usually) at night to avoid damage from sun sensitivity.
   6. Moisturizer Moisturizers are made for all kinds of complexions, either oil-free or loaded with skincare goodies like antioxidants and vitamins. You can use facial oil as a moisturizer too, no matter what your skin type.

In the event that none of the above alleviate the entirety of skin health-related issues or concerns you have, cosmetic options such as chemical peels or microdermabrasion may be the answer you’re looking for. In the event that you believe a professional cosmetic solution is the way to move forward, make sure you discuss this at length with the plastic surgeon you’re considering before making any impulsive decisions.

Consult with Dr. Binder

If you have any questions or concerns about how to properly look after your facial skin or the cosmetic options that are available to you, then be sure to book a consultation with Dr. Binder.