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  A rapid exploration on the web will highlight this is not an unprecedented event. Rhinoplasty is thought to be a standout amongst the most challenging corrective surgical techniques. Pick your specialist carefully. Ensure that he/she has the experience and effective reputation for your particular surgery. If you have had unpleasant nose work, you will probably be furious, negative, and incredulous of every single plastic surgeon. Your chief emphasis should be to plainly impart to your second plastic surgeon what precisely it is that you are troubled about. You need be to a great degree clear and exact with reference to what you need repaired and/or rectified and what your objectives are from the second surgery. Bad nose jobs will characteristically fall into one of numerous major categories identified as corrective prospects. There are particular demonstrated remedial methods that will repair each of these with surgery. Your specialist will have the capacity to instruct you with reference to what should be possible to rectify the issue and how he/she will revise it. There are times when the nose must be remade for both appearance and proper breathing. Before you consider remedial modification Rhinoplasty surgery, ensure that you've given your body adequate time to recuperate. The perceptible results one month after your first surgery will look significantly changed 6 months after surgery. As a rule, restorative Rhinoplasty surgery ought not be performed under 12 months after the starting surgery. What would it be advisable for you to do in the event that you've had terrible nose work?  

1. Give your nose time to mend. In case you're still troubled following the 1 year update, .

rhinoplasty may remedy the issue.  

2. Choose another specialist with the demonstrated reputation in correction rhinoplasty.

 

3.      Consult with your specialist (no less than 2 or 3 times) and inform yourself on all parts of

the corrective surgery.   The unfortunate truth is that in a few occurrences, the scar tissue from the first surgery is severe to the point that it makes it for all intents and purposes difficult to accomplish certain outcomes. You and your specialist need to concur on reasonable desires amid your discussion. Dr. William J. Binder, M.D., F.A.C.S. will take the time during your consultation to inquire what your needs and wants are. A co-plan will be implemented so that you will receive the most effective care and results possible.  

You spend hours debating about it. You spend even more hours researching the perfect surgeon. You finally undergo a rhinoplasty procedure, only to be disappointed with the results. Your nose is the focal point of your face, and you can’t hide poor results. Maybe your results need to be tweaked to give you the perfect nose, or maybe your original nose issues were never properly corrected. It can be easy to feel discouraged and upset after such an ordeal. Because you may not know what your next step should be, we are here to help you make the best decision and  plan your revision rhinoplasty.

What Should You Do Now?

Revision rhinoplasty can give you a second chance to improve your nasal contours and help you achieve the results you desire. Revision rhinoplasty, sometimes called secondary rhinoplasty, is a surgery that reinforces weakened nasal structures and corrects further aesthetics. There can be many reasons for a second nose surgery, but most often, the procedure is performed to help address an issue that was either not impacted by the first treatment or an issue that has since developed as a result of the surgery. Taking the time to do some simple research can help you determine for yourself if you would benefit from another nose job.  Rhinoplasty Society can provide you with insight on the procedure process. Getting  information from physicians can also be helpful in making your decision.

Revision Rhinoplasty is a Complex Procedure

Rhinoplasty is a very detailed facial plastic surgery to begin with. But, understanding the ins and outs of the procedure can help put your mind at ease. The nose is delicate and easily damaged, so this procedure must be performed with tender care and fine attention to detail.

What’s the Best Approach for Revisions?

The closed approach works well for minor revisions and does not involve any incisions being made on the outside of the nose. This method relies mostly on the skill of the surgeon to play to his or her strengths regarding nasal adjustments. For major conceptual nose job repairs, an open approach is often used. An incision is made in the columella, or the area between the nostrils at the tip of the nose, in order to address the complexities of the inner anatomy of the nose. Certain revision rhinoplasty cases may require the use of cartilage grafts. A rhinoplasty often involves repositioning or trimming nasal cartilage. If more cartilage is required to support the nose or repair the columella separating the nostrils, a cartilage graft from the septum, ear or ribs may be recommended. This gently removes a small amount of cartilage to restore anatomical components.

Finding a Surgeon to Fix Your Nose Job

After understanding the complexity of the surgery, you will understand the need for an experienced and certified plastic surgeon to perform it. You certainly don’t want to be disappointed with your results yet again, so taking the time to find a professional who pays very close attention to detail is of the utmost importance.

How to Make the Most of Your Consultation

Once you have decided on a surgeon, you’ll want to have an in-depth consultation. You’ll want a surgeon who is detail-oriented in his or her treatment plan. Also make sure that he or she completes a thorough examination of the inside and outside of your nose. Here are some additional tips for making the most of your consultation:

• Provide your surgeon with before and after pictures of your previous rhinoplasty to help clarify your concerns.
• Ask your physician about his or her rate of rhinoplasty revision.
• Discuss your expectations with your surgeon and get their honest opinion on the likely outcome of your surgery.
• Keep a running list of questions as you think of them and bring the list to your consultation to ensure that your needs are addressed.

Allow a Master Facial Plastic Surgeon to Correct Your Nose Issues

Don’t settle for a bad nose job. An experienced facial reconstructive surgeon can repair your nasal issues thoroughly and help you achieve the look you’ve been striving for. Make sure the surgeon is an expert in the complex art of revision rhinoplasty. Dr. William J. Binder is considered one of the top revision rhinoplasty experts. His technical skill and wonderful communication can help turn your nose job nightmare into a thing of beauty. Schedule a consultation today. With our advanced techniques and dedicated staff we can help you achieve the nose you deserve.

Facial reconstruction equals big changes in your life. Post-surgery can be a big adjustment. Not only does your face look different, but you also feel different. Taking steps and preparing in advance to have a smooth recovery can help ease the adjustment period. Preparation can also help your face heal better so that you achieve the best possible results when you’re done healing. The length of time needed to recover from facial reconstruction differs from person to person depending on the condition of each individual’s overall health, the specific facial reconstruction procedure they elect to undergo, and the specifics of their procedure:   Rhinoplasty Generally by 3 months after a rhinoplasty procedure, most of the swelling has subsided, the new shape and size of the nose is apparent, and patients can go back to their normal routines, including exercise. They should, however, avoid high-impact, high-risk activities for at least 6 months after surgery.   Facelift For most patients undergoing a facelift procedure, most of the swelling and bruising subsides after about three weeks, and it may be hard for anyone else to tell that they have even had a facelift, other than their more youthful appearance. Patients can return to their normal routine after about two weeks.   Eyelid Surgery While no two patients are alike, some patients experience a full recovery from eyelid surgery in as few as four or five days, although in other cases a complete recovery may take as long as three to four weeks. Whatever kind of facial cosmetic surgery you elect to undergo, here are a few helpful tips to ensure that your recovery is as easy, successful, and painless as possible:   Enlist An Assistant Facial reconstruction affects the whole face, and sometimes the bandages can make it hard to see. During the first couple of days, you may need someone to provide you with transportation, changing bandages, preparing your meals, and other everyday tasks. Enlist a close friend or relative to help with those things for the first few days after surgery.   Invest in a Food Processor One of the biggest concerns following facial reconstruction surgery is diet. It’s still okay to eat all of your favorite foods, but they have to be chopped into small pieces that do not require chewing. This way, you can easily eat all of your favorite foods until your no-chew diet restrictions are lifted.   Take Your Pain Medication! Facial reconstruction surgery can affect the nerves throughout your face. This can cause severe discomfort in addition to the pain already experienced from the incisions and other corrective measures. Staying ahead of the pain curve will keep you calm and comfortable. It will also reduce the amount of stress on your body, ensuring that you heal quickly and properly.   Dust Off the Recliner Sleeping with your head elevated is important after facial reconstruction. It will reduce the amount of swelling and stabilize circulation. It is also recommended to sleep in a reclined or a seated position. You can also prop two or three pillows under your head and shoulders while lying in bed to keep your body elevated.   Buy Some Frozen Veggies Ice is another important factor in reducing swelling after surgery. Medical ice packs can be helpful, but frozen veggies, especially corn or peas, make for pliable ice packs.   Use Squirt-Top Water Bottles Staying hydrated is required after any type of surgical treatment. Facial reconstruction patients must also be sure to keep their mouth clean after surgery. A water bottle with a squirt top is helpful because it makes it easy to stay hydrated while also aiding in rinsing out your mouth with very little head movement. Bonus Tip: Use a child’s toothbrush to help brush in between meals, as it is smaller and easier to fit into the mouth without opening too widely.   Stock Up On Food & Supplies Having a fully stocked house can make recovery time less stressful. Be sure that you have all of the bandages, antibiotic ointments, and over-the-counter pain medications as recommended by your doctor. Also make sure that you have foods that can be cut into bite-sized pieces or are soft enough to eat after treatment. Don’t forget to also make sure you have the essentials, such as laundry detergent and toilet paper.   Talk To Your Doctor The most important recovery tip is this: attend all of your follow-up appointments and don’t hesitate to call your doctor with questions or concerns. Dr. Binder would rather you bring up a concern than have it go unaddressed and that lead to bigger problems later. Rest easy and know that your facial reconstruction by Dr. Binder will help you achieve the best possible aesthetic results.

Skin cancer is more common than you might think. In fact,  around 50% of people will have experienced some form of skin cancer when they reach age 65. The most common type of skin cancer, and also the most common type of cancer in general, is Basal Cell Carcinoma. This disease can cause disfiguration of the tissue in question if left untreated for long periods of time. Because of the prevalence of skin cancer and its tendency to lead to disfigurement if left untreated, we are seeing a rise in  skin cancer reconstruction.

The Importance of this Procedure

These cancers should be removed immediately. However, even when the cancer is spotted and removed in time, the removal of these cancers can cause disfigurement without reconstruction surgery. There are two techniques of skin cancer reconstruction:

• Skin Flaps:   Often a skin flap procedure will be chosen as the best way to limit scarring and restore full function to the affected area. This procedure involves the removal of a flap of skin from the area adjacent to the cancer removal site.
• Skin Grafts:   This technique involves taking skin from a predetermined donor site on the patient’s body and transferring it to the affected area. This technique leaves some scarring.

Discuss your Options

The rise in skin cancer has led to a rise in skin cancer reconstruction. If you’ve been diagnosed with skin cancer, it is important to not only have the cancer removed, but restore the affected area with skin cancer reconstruction. As a leading surgeon in facial plastic surgery, Dr. Binder is an expert in both removal and reconstruction techniques. Schedule your consultation, and Dr. Binder will discuss what options are available to you.

Traumatic injuries often leave their mark in physical and emotional ways. This is especially prevalent in facial disfigurement. As humans, we have a unique psychological relationship with our face, more so than any other bodily area.

Our face is what represents us in our mind, and in the minds of others, so when it is damaged or disfigured due to an accident, our psyche can become damaged as well. It is for this reason that post-accident  facial reconstruction is so important, as it provides both physical and emotional benefits.

The Physical Benefits of Facial Reconstruction

These reconstructive surgeries work to repair the physical appearance of the face and skull, while some are also aimed at restoring feeling and muscle movements. The physical benefits of these procedures can include: ensuring proper vision, hearing, jaw movement, and breathing.

Aside from restoring proper facial functions, facial reconstruction aims to return facial features to pre-accident form, or as close to it as possible. Many patients have undergone successful facial reconstruction,  rendering any visible results from their accident nearly imperceptible.

The Emotional Benefits

Along with physical damage, sometimes the most impairing aspect of facial disfigurement after an accident is the emotional damage to the patient’s state of mind. This emotional damage may lead to a lack of self-confidence, and even depression.

Fortunately, by improving upon the disfigurement, facial reconstruction can restore confidence by returning facial features to their original state, or as close to the original state as possible. Facial reconstruction can allow patients to look in the mirror and see a renewed hope and outlook on life–instead of a reminder of a traumatic accident and impending social anxiety.

Reconstruct Your Face. Rebuild Your Life

With the advancement in technology, modern surgeons can rebuild a patient’s face, as well as their life. Accidents can cause both physical and emotional damage that facial reconstruction can help alleviate.

Dr. Binder has successfully performed this procedure on many patients and helped them return to their normal lives without the negative effects of facial trauma. If you have suffered facial disfigurement due to an accident, call (310) 858-6749 to schedule a consultation.

Plastic surgery can be a big decision, but it is one that can yield many benefits and lead to increased self-confidence. However, before you commit to plastic surgery, here are some facts you should know about your plastic surgeon:

Your Plastic Surgeon is Not a Magician

It is important to have realistic expectations. Be sure that you are not expecting your surgeon to magically make your body perfect. Know that each person and each surgeon will garner different results, and you must be aware of the likely outcome of your surgery.

Be sure to openly communicate with your surgeon about your goals, and ask what the most likely outcome is. For instance, it isn’t realistic to expect a  facelift to transform a 45 year old to a 20 year old. Yes, the procedure can enhance your look and take years off of your appearance, but not 25 years.

Some Plastic Surgeons Will Tell You No

A good surgeon will reject a poor candidate for surgery. If you are too high risk or if your expectations are not obtainable, a good, ethical surgeon will suggest that you either reconsider or postpone your surgery until you are a more desirable candidate for surgery.

Beware the plastic surgeon who will accept any patient. Find a plastic surgeon who has your best interests and your health in mind, even if it means being told no.

Not All Plastic Surgeons Are Equally Certified

Most people know to seek out an experienced surgeon who is board certified. But board certified by whom? Not all certifications are created equal. Each board has different qualifications that surgeons must meet in order to become board certified. Some boards allow for a take-home test and a weekend conference attendance in order to become certified, while others are much more rigorous.

Check your surgeon’s specific board certifications to ensure they are from reputable sources with high standards for certification. Look for a surgeon who is certified in medical specialties, such as  otolaryngology and plastic and reconstructive surgery.

Some Plastic Surgeons are More Qualified Than Others

Plastic surgery is a highly competitive field. Finding the best surgeon can be difficult. Each patient will have their own ideal plastic surgeon–since no two people or surgeons are alike. Here are some tips for finding the ideal surgeon:

• Find a surgeon who is qualified to teach other surgeons or who has held a fellowship in their specialty field.
• Look for surgeons who have been published in peer-reviewed journals in their field of work.
• Seek surgeons who have dedicated years of experience in perfecting their craft.

Many Plastic Surgeons Have a Passion for Helping People

That’s why they entered the field. Improving the self-confidence of patients by treating imperfections is incredibly challenging and admirable work, and that’s why many plastic surgeons do what they do.

Many surgeons use their skills to fix  cleft palates, aid burn or accident victims with reconstruction, or provide surgeries to help remedy birth defects or deformities. Look for a surgeon who puts his or her talent to good use.

You Get What You Pay For

Just because a plastic surgeon has outrageously low procedure prices doesn’t mean that their work will be up to par. You do “get what you pay for” with plastic surgery. Look past the price tag to the source of the surgery. Does the surgeon do quality work? Are they board certified? Do they have satisfied patients?

Settling for a bargain from a poor surgeon can result in poor results or health complications. Do your homework and make sure that your plastic surgeon is reputable as well as affordable.

Your Plastic Surgeon Wants to Hear Your Questions

Don’t be afraid to ask your plastic surgeon any questions you might have. Some questions to keep in mind for your plastic surgeon are:

• What’s the length of time and pain level associated with healing?
• Are there long term effects associated with the procedure?
• Will insurance cover this procedure?

Your surgeon would prefer that you bring up a concern or question so that it is addressed and it doesn’t affect your satisfaction with your outcome later.

Keep an Open Line of Communication

Knowing the truth about your surgeon will make your plastic surgery decision easier. Make sure that you and your plastic surgeon have an open and honest line of communication.

As a published surgeon, holder of 10 patents in the field, and founder of techniques implemented throughout plastic surgery, Dr. Binder has been sought out by countless patients during his years of work in plastic surgery. If you are considering facial plastic surgery, look no further than Dr. Binder.  Schedule your consultation today.

Why Get a Nose Job?

3D imaging certainly has been one of the more interesting topics of discussion among technology enthusiasts over the past several years. It’s also an incredibly fast growing industry, as the 3D imaging market is anticipated to be worth  $16.6 billion by 2020. Those statistics make it quite obvious that 3D imaging technologies have been embraced by organizations across various types of industries around the world. For example, the combination of 3D imaging and printing are being used by a growing amount of businesses to replace some of their inefficient, legacy manufacturing techniques, resulting in huge savings related to operational costs as well as considerably less waste generated. As far as consumer applications go, these combined technologies can do things such as print working musical instruments and enable secure face recognition for mobile devices. The benefits and applications of 3D imaging are undeniable. But what about the more important and intriguing uses of 3D imaging? Unsurprisingly, there are quite a few examples in this category as well. Let’s go over ten of them:

Affordable Limb Prosthetics

One of the more unexpected byproducts of the growing availability of 3D printers was the manufacturing of cheap prosthetics. Combined this with 3D imaging tech creates a serious impact on what was previously an incredibly expensive necessity. Depending on its complexity, patients were simply just expected to pay upwards of  $50,000 to $70,000 for a prosthetic replacement. This financial burden affected more families than you would think: one in 1,000 infants is born with missing fingers while thousands of others lose parts of their body yearly due to injury. Since children have a rapid pace of growth, replacements can run upwards of thousands of dollars or more to medical bills. Most American families simply could not afford this. 3D printing and imaging companies like e-NABLE, however, offer a radically less expensive alternative, as materials for a prosthetic created by a 3D printer costs as little as roughly $20. You would think that this would produce lower-quality prosthetics, but this is certainly not the case. Many experts have indicated that products created by 3D imaging are just as good, if not better.

Facial Implants

Most people are sensitive to both the shape and dimension of their face, so when it is noticeably out of proportion, it tends to make them feel self-conscious and can hurt their confidence. Using 3D imaging technology, facial implant companies use their expertise to properly perceive the three-dimensional interaction of all facial features to create a well-defined, balanced face. Dr. Binder was the forerunner of these innovations,  combining modern 3D imaging technology to create more accurate anatomic facial implants that are more effective, longer-lasting and more visually pleasing results.

Diagnose Heart Conditions

Sticking with the medical field, doctors have also found a very interesting use for the 3D imaging technology. Recently, health experts were able to  create a 3D anatomic model of a patient’s heart using the combination of two imaging techniques. This was quite a striking advancement. An extremely detailed and accurate model will allow them to improve the diagnosis and treatment of heart diseases. Medical professionals were able to accomplish this by using both computed tomography (CT) and three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (3DTEE). The CT noticeably improved researchers’ ability to visualize the outside anatomy of the heart, while the 3DTEE technology enabled them to have much better view of the valves inside.

Safer Surgery

3D imaging also allows for the creation of highly-detailed medical models, giving medical practitioners an inexpensive alternative to learning about the human anatomy without having to use actual remains of human bodies. 3D technology can also create the smallest pieces of human anatomy, even if it measures just a fraction of an inch. Because the details are so finely accurate, surgeons can also thoroughly plan a surgery based on a 3D-imaging medical model prior to a patient going in for surgery. This certainly allows complicated operations to go much more smoothly and be considerably safer. As 3D imaging tech becomes cheaper and more advanced, so does medical science.

Augmented Reality and Mobile Devices

Hewlett-Packard has been experimenting with augmented reality and 3D image manipulation recently. It will allow its customers to play with 3D images that can be physically manifested using a 3D printer, creating a more interactive user experience. It’s pretty interesting how HP went about accomplishing this: the company leverages Intel’s 3D RealSense depth-sensing camera, enabling users to scan an object and manipulate the produced image on a specialized Touch Mat surface. It then provides the option to print it on a 3D printer. The company plans to bring this technology to their tablets and laptops. Though this intriguing feature already exists on the HP Sprout all-in-one desktop, they anticipate embedding the technology into many of their mobile products sometime in the near future.

Touch 3D Images in Gaming

Over the past few years, there have been several companies launching projects to bring Virtual-Reality back into the gaming world. These projects include Facebook’s Oculus Rift, Sony’s Project Morpheus, and HTC’s Vive. Though each offer impressive technology, a far more interesting development has occurred with researchers at Japanese high-tech firm, Miraisens. Last year, they  unveiled a new technology that makes it possible to touch 3D images using VR. It does this by generating customized ‘touchable 3D-imagery,’ claiming that people will be able to both push and pull objects that are visible only on the monitor. This technology is slated for a commercial sometime soon, which will certainly help VR companies create the effect of physically performing various tasks in gaming.

Archeology

Archeologists are also leveraging 3D imaging technology to help preserve sites and findings. Because excavating dig sites creates a high risk of destroying the story behind it, archeological professionals are eagerly turning to 3D modeling technology in order to help preserve the information found in a site, discover new areas to start digs, and to create models of ancient artifacts using 3D printing. For example, modeling programs like  Rhinoceros allow researchers rotate a 3D-generated model and slice it at any angle to view a specific cross section. It also allows them to achieve extremely precise measurements, volume data, and other features that were previously difficult to attain manually.

Space!

Astronauts are also starting to use 3D imaging technology to print tools hundreds of miles above earth’s atmosphere. Everything on board space stations currently has to be brought directly from Earth, which results in months of waiting to receive a valuable replacement part. With 3D imaging and printing technology, however, those supply lines are becoming blurred. Back in late 2014, the International Space Station (ISS) used  3D printer to produce a ratchet wrench using a design file created by 3D imaging, which was transmitted from Earth. Though the tool was not actually used in space and it was produced there and thus sent back to Earth on the next return voyage for rigorous structural and mechanical testing. If results are more than encouraging, we may see the next generation of 3D printed tools actually being used in space.

Clothing

Designer companies have begun to use 3D imaging technology to make ordering perfectly-fit clothing much easier and a lot more affordable. If successful, it may radically change the fashion industry. Companies like the Australian  XYZ Workshop are already providing downloadable dress designs online; soon, anyone with a compatible 3D printer will be able to easily create their own clothing at home. Additionally, a team based out of San Francisco, Electroloom, recently claimed that it has built their first version of a 3D printer specifically for clothing, indicating that consumers will be able to use these available designs to create a new outfit within the next few years. It seems that you won’t have to be a seamstress to manufacture quality clothing anymore.

Living Cells

Technology company,  NanoLive, has created the “3D Cell Explorer first-ever microscope”, which allows scientists to look inside living cells without having to prepare any prior samples. The 3D Cell Explorer is able to record detailed 3D images of entire living cells in a matter of seconds; all at a much higher resolution than any traditional microscope that is currently available. To achieve this, the microscope functions like an MRI scanner by taking photographs at different depths across the cells. The resulting slices of photography are reconstructed using intuitive holography software, resulting in a high-resolution 3D image of the cell that can be rotated and explored in depth. This 3D imaging technology is certainly beneficial to researchers, students and medical doctors, as they can directly see what exactly is going on inside a living cell, in real time.

Dr. William Binder Takes 3D Imaging the Extra Mile

Take a deeper look inside our surgery center and find out how Dr. Binder has revolutionized the use of 3-Dimensional computer imaging. Dr. Binder and his staff have taken a step in the right direction for producing custom-designed implants for facial reconstructive and aesthetic surgery. He designed a system that develops personalized implants to reconstruct a patient’s facial contour defects with great accuracy. Contact Dr. Binder’s Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Center in Beverly Hills to learn how we put our technology to work for the modern era of facial contouring.

The term facial reconstruction surgery conjures up images of pristine exam rooms and sterile equipment. While these perceptions are accurately evocative of the modern field of American plastic surgery, the procedures we know today actually go all the way back to the Civil War. While a myriad of advancements have been made in recent years, the earliest facial reconstructions occurred during a truly bleak time in our history, laying the framework for modern plastic surgery.

War Is Hell, Disease Is Death

While historians often focus on the impact of bullets and cannons when they tally the death toll of the Civil War, disease played a shocking role in making that number skyrocket. For every soldier killed on the field of battle, another two died from afflictions that couldn’t be treated by the medicines of the time. These diseases included typhoid, measles, diphtheria, and pneumonia. Pneumonia was the malady that claimed 18-year-old Private Carleton Burgan. A foot soldier for the Union Army, Burgan had a persistent cold that got progressively worse. His doctor attempted to alleviate the condition by treating him with calomel, a formula that contained mercury intended to flush Burgan’s system. Instead, the toxins in his medication ate away the soft tissue in the young man’s mouth, nose, and jaw. Burgan’s life was forever changed by the prescription of the mercury pills. His deteriorated flesh succumbed to facial gangrene, which spread from his tongue to his soft palate and cheek. Eventually, the infection spread to his right eye, leading to the removal of his right cheekbone to halt the life-threatening spread of gangrene.

The First Photo Documented Facial Reconstruction Patient

Burgan joined the ranks of thousands of Civil War veterans who were left disfigured and seemingly hopeless. But history would shine brightly on Private Burgan; he would not be yet another statistic. He would become the first documented facial reconstruction patient, a true benchmark in medical breakthroughs. Traumatized and unrecognizable after the surgery to remove his gangrenous tissue, Burgan turned to City Hospital surgeon Dr. Gurdon Buck, now considered the father of facial reconstruction surgery. Buck was the first to document “before and after” photographs of a reconstruction surgery, and it is through him that we have an idea of the capabilities of surgeons of this era. Because of the doctor’s intervention, Private Burgan, after several surgeries, was able to go on to enjoy a relatively normal life. In fact, Burgan thrived beyond the war years. He got married, had several children, and lived to be 71 years old. He passed away in the year 1915, just as another quantum leap in facial reconstruction innovation would revolutionize the field of plastic surgery.

Advancing Modern Facial Reconstruction: The World War I Years

The techniques used to save Carleton Burgan formed the building blocks of the surgical techniques used in modern day facial reconstruction surgery. The 20th century actually saw many advancements in facial reconstruction techniques, and just as with the case of Dr. Buck and Carleton Burgan, war necessitated this new round of breakthroughs. Dr. Harold Gillies established a visionary health practice in London during the First World War. He hired a team of nurses, surgeons and… artists? Dr. Gillies believed it would require a new set of aesthetics to repair the broken soldiers who had survived the horrors of the battlefield, so he brought in a sculptor named Kathleen Scott to join his efforts. Ms. Scott made casts of the injured young men’s faces to work from. Then, using flaps of grafted skin and sections of rib bones, the surgical squad rebuilt the fallen soldiers’ faces by working from the aforementioned casts. Together, the team made significant strides in jaw reconstruction and replacement that would ripple forward through time.

Another World War, Another Round of Healing

The vanguard work of Dr. Gillies made waves around the globe, and news of his accomplishments soon made their way to New Zealand. A young med student named Archibald McIndoe sought out the tutelage of Dr. Gillies, who was, in fact, a distant relative of his. McIndoe joined forces with Gillies and became a leader in the burgeoning field of plastic surgery in London during the 1930’s… just before the world was on the brink of another disastrous war. Just as technology advanced, so too did the weapons of battle. During World War II, many fighter pilots suffered from a phenomenon called “Hurricane Burn” – this was the result of jet fuel that had ignited during the heat of warfare. The traditional remedy for such disfigurements was tannic acid, which dried out the affected skin and caused additional pain and scarring to the already devastated victims. Dr. McIndoe saw a better solution. He noted that pilots who had been shot down at sea suffered less severe trauma, so he decided to treat his patients with saline rather than tannic acid. This resulted in speedier recovery, less pain, and overall more successful rehabilitation. But McIndoe wasn’t just a pioneer in the operating room (his work included the reconstruction of many soldiers’ hands in addition to his treatment of facial tissue damaged by burns); he also focused on his patients’ mental health post surgery. McIndoe encouraged those he had treated to form their own “Guinea Pig Club” – it was a support group intended to aid in the men’s reintegration into society following their harrowing experiences during the war. To honor his place in world history, McIndoe earned a knighthood in 1947. He then went on to help found the British Association of Plastic Surgeons (BAPS), an organization that later elected him its president. Various advancements over the years, and from all parts of the world, have led to the facial reconstruction techniques available today, and certainly, we can now do things at which Doctors Buck, Gillies, and McIndoe would be astounded by.

3-D Computer Imaging for Facial Reconstruction

Continuing with the trend of evolving technology, Dr. William J. Binder, considered as one of the founders of modern facial contouring, was the first to use 3-D computer imaging to develop facial implants for both aesthetic and reconstructive procedures. With the use of this technology, Dr. Binder can capture the minute details of a patient’s face and transpose those details into the implants, creating natural-looking and subtle results. In fact, these techniques are currently implemented by plastic surgeons around the world. As a leading surgeon who thinks in terms of 3-Dimensional concepts, Dr. Binder is always on the forefront of technology. Stay up to date with his blog for intriguing insight into the field of plastic surgery and facial reconstruction.