If you’re considering minor facial treatments like Botox or fillers, know that they do require some recovery time. While treatments like this are outpatient and quite routine, it isn’t uncommon for a patient to have some pain, redness, swelling, and more.

Today we’ll explain the difference between fillers and Botox, and what to expect after your visit. Everything you need to know about safe, effective aftercare is right here.

The Difference between Botox and Filler

Before we get started, it’s important to know the difference between Botox and fillers.

“Botox” is sometimes used interchangeably for any age-defying outpatient facial treatments, but it is actually a brand name for botulinum toxin “A”. Botox contains purified bacteria that freezes muscles. The 42 muscles in your face that help you speak and emote will move in similar ways each time you use them. This creates folds, wrinkles, and fine lines: but Botox prevents those muscles from moving, eliminating the wrinkles.

Dermal fillers contain several ingredients, some of which are produced naturally by the body. Hyaluronic and polylactic acids, for example, are naturally-occurring plumping and collagen-making chemicals already present in the body. Dermal fillers are injected into the face to add a healthy-looking fullness to areas that become thinner over time – lips and cheeks are particularly common targets for fillers.

Pain Management in Post Procedure

Whether you and your doctor have chosen dermal fillers, Botox, or another injectable option, it’s possible you will have some of the following side effects:

• Bruising
• Swelling
• Itching
• Hives
• Bleeding
• Rash
• Numbness

These are all considered minor side effects, lasting a few days, up to two weeks. They can be treated at home with the simple pain management and lifestyle tips below.

Rest

The day you receive treatment, do not return to work or do anything strenuous that would raise your heart rate (like exercise). In the days following your treatment, be sure to rest when necessary. Resting allows your body to focus energy on healing. You may, however, perform simple facial exercises.

Hands Off

Unless you are actively applying topical treatments (discussed below) with clean hands, don’t touch, rub, or scratch your face for at least 1 day, up to 3. Not only can this cause infections at the injection sites, but it can spread the toxins or filler to unintended places, causing bruising, lumpiness, and more. If you need to relieve itching or discomfort, use a cool compress every hour as needed.

Oral and Topical Pain Relief

Most over-the-counter pain management methods will reduce discomfort after Botox or dermal fillers. Acetaminophen/paracetamol and ibuprofen can be taken safely (as directed) to manage pain. The herb Arnica is also a common post-injection treatment method. It can be applied topically in gel form, or taken orally, but must be properly diluted.

Avoid Extreme Heat or Foreign Substances

To speed up and preserve your treatment – as well as avoid unnecessary pain – avoid sun exposure. Do not expose yourself to intense heat in saunas, hot tubs, hot showers, or tanning beds. Also, during recovery, avoid receiving other facial treatments, exfoliations, chemical peels, etc. If you’ve already had face fillers or Botox, do not seek out any other injectable facial treatments until the face has fully healed.

Dr. William J Binder

Dr. Binder stands apart from the crowd, and his work speaks for itself. A patent-holding innovator, Dr. Binder has published dozens of articles in national medical and surgical journals, pioneering the use of Botox as a migraine treatment.

Most importantly, Dr. Binder understands that restoring a patient’s self-esteem requires a unique approach, tailor-made for them. Because of this, Dr. Binder has developed techniques to make facial treatments and reconstruction minimally invasive with maximum impact.

If you’re seeking facial treatments, surgery, or facial reconstruction, contact Dr. Binder’s office today – our friendly staff is waiting!

Fat grafting has recently spiked in popularity – you may have heard the latest “it girls” and influencers talking about it online. But what exactly is facial fat grafting? How does it work? Most importantly, would it be right for you? We take a deep dive and explain everything you need to know and help you connect with professionals that can pull it off.

What is Fat Grafting?

Fat grafting is the process by which fat is removed from one portion of the body via liposuction. It’s then liquefied and purified by a process of straining and spinning – this prepares it for reintegration into the body. Finally, the prepared fat is surgically added back into the body elsewhere - wherever you and your doctor determine is necessary. Fat grafting is considered generally safe. Using fat as a permanent filler reduces the risk of allergic reaction and other adverse side effects because no one is allergic to their own fat. However, because fat can be reabsorbed into the body, a slight initial overfilling is common to account for absorption. Six months after the filling treatment, the fat that remains should last a lifetime.

Uses for Fat Grafting

Traditionally, fat grafting was used to fill out irregularities in the surface of the skin during procedures such as natural breast augmentation and Brazilian butt lifts. Now, as fat grafting popularity grows, more uses emerge.

Facial Fillers

Facial fat grafts are now a major player in the application of fat grafting. An alternative to more traditional facial implants, fat grafting comes with the added benefit of removing fat from less desirable locations. Skilled surgeons create a more natural facial profile, rebuild facial deformations, and repair tissue damage. Facial fat grafting can also be used to augment the results of a facelift, which is becoming an increasingly popular technique used by plastic surgeons. According to a study in which 300 members of The American Society of Plastic Surgeons were polled, 85% of the surgeons polled used fat grafting during facelifts. Fat from a patient’s own body results in a fuller, smoother, healthier appearance – especially beneficial when performing a facelift to improve cheeks that appear gaunt or sunken.

Post-traumatic Deformities and Burn Injuries

Utilizing fat grafting, surgeons can more effectively smooth and repair scars, burns, or other deformities as a result of traumatic events. Cases of subcutaneous fat being removed, treated, and used to fill deep wounds date back to 2012, with excellent results. A fat graft to repair remnants of traumatic injury can help a patient reclaim their life and self-esteem.

Breast Augmentation and Reconstruction

Breast augmentation is a well-known use for fat grafting, but doctors didn’t stop there. After mastectomies, radiation, or other breast cancer treatment methods, breast reconstruction is sometimes necessary. Fat grafting is an effective long-term and safe option for breast cancer patients – it creates a more natural feel and appearance, matching the unaltered breast better than a standard silicone implant.

Fat Grafting Services From Dr. Binder

Dr. Binder provides personalized fat-grafting services in a state-of-the-art office, located conveniently in beautiful Beverly Hills. With 30 years of experience, multiple patents, and over 70 academic articles to his credit, Dr. William Binder is always at the forefront of facial plastic and reconstructive innovation. Using tools like facial fat grafting, Dr. Binder sets the bar and revolutionizes the modern field of facial contouring. While many surgeons now employ his methods, nothing beats the original. If you require fat grafting services or would like more information, contact Dr. Binder’s office today – our friendly staff is more than happy to assist you!

Globally, plastic surgery is a $49.14 billion industry, and over the last two years, the industry has seen a boom in growth and from a somewhat unlikely place. The latest news in plastic surgery revolves around what is called the "Zoom Boom" trend and how it's impacting plastic surgery trends.

What Exactly is the Zoom Boom?

Following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, consumers have been faced with all sorts of news surrounding Zoom fatigue, the increase of video conferencing for personal, educational, and business purposes, and now - the Zoom Boom.

The Zoom Boom refers to a new upward trend in the plastic surgery industry that has been propelled by the ongoing use of video conferencing devices.

"The 'Zoom Boom' is 100% credited to people sitting at home all day and staring at their faces during video conferences," said Dr. David Shafer, MD, FACS, during an interview with Entrepreneur.

Sure, while the Zoom app has been downloaded more than 6 million times, video conferencing across apps such as Facebook Messenger, Microsoft Teams, and other apps has also increased and contributed to this Zoom Boom trend.

As of 2020, the most popular video conferencing service used by adults was Facetime (47.6%), followed up by Facebook Messenger (44.1%) and Zoom (31.5%).

How is this ‘Zoom Boom’ Impacting the Everyday Person?

So, while it's true that more and more people are using video conferencing more frequently, has it really had that much of an impact on people that it's now starting this massive increase in plastic surgery?

According to Dr. Shafer, the answer is yes, and it's all because of Zoom Dysmorphia. This term was coined by Arianne Shadi Kourosh, MD, MPH, and is used to describe the negative effects on patients brought on by the Zoom Boom, such as developing a negative self-opinion, creating dangerous cycles of self-criticisms, etc.

More Patients Seeking Out Cosmetic Treatments

In a study published in March of 2021 in the International Journal of Women's Dermatology, dermatologists are seeing significant increases in patients interested in cosmetic procedures.

Co-author of the study, Dr. Libby, MD, stated that 56.7% of practitioners had seen an increase in patients seeking cosmetic consultation since the onset of the pandemic. Interestingly, 86.4% indicated that their patients cited video-conferencing calls as their primary reason for seeking out cosmetic treatment.

There's Been an Increase in Those with Lower Self-Esteem

In that same study, 82.7% of dermatologists marked their patients as being either somewhat more or significantly more unhappy with their appearance since they began using video conferencing apps due to the ongoing pandemic.

In another poll posted by Facial Plastic Surgery & Aesthetic Medicine, 40% of participants stated that they now plan to seek out cosmetic treatments solely based on their appearance-related concerns stemming from ongoing video conferencing use.

Most Sought After Procedures Related to the Zoom Boom

According to both the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, three cosmetic surgical procedures took 2020 by storm, and they included:

• Rhinoplasty
• Eyelid Surgery
• Facelifts

Of course, other standard procedures included liposuction due to increased sedentary lifestyles, Botox for chronic stress caused by the ongoing pandemic, and cosmetic surgery for those who have suffered from Zoom Dysmorphia, such as breast augmentation or breast reduction.

Feeling the Effects of the ‘Zoom Boom’? Dr. Binder Can Help!

If you are feeling the effects of the Zoom Boom and are starting to feel the adverse effects, don't worry, Dr. Binder is here to help!

He is Board Certified by both the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery. He is also known for his outstanding achievements and contributions in his field.

Have questions about a particular procedure? Contact us today for more information!

Plastic surgery has come a long way in the last few decades, so much so that cosmetic surgery has become an increasingly common way to enhance appearance. But while looking younger and more youthful has become a mainstay of the cosmetic surgery industry, what will be the hottest trends in 2022? Here are six cosmetic procedures expected to take off in the next year!

Facelifts

Facelifts are one of the most common plastic surgery procedures performed today. The facelift is a procedure that removes drooping skin and sagging facial muscles, making the face look older.

In its most basic form, the facelift is a surgical procedure to remove excess skin and muscle from the face, making the face look longer and thinner. The facelift is a popular procedure among men and women of all ages looking to restore some of their youthful appearances, especially in those in their 40’s.

Facelifts are especially popular among those who suffer from a phenomenon known as the Zoom Boom.  The Zoom Boom, also referred to as Zoom Dysmorphia, refers to the upward trend in the plastic surgery industry that has been propelled by the ongoing use of video conferencing devices. With so many people consistently having to look at themselves in their conferencing app, it has decreased self-confidence and overall self-esteem.

Eyelid Surgery

One of the most hotly anticipated plastic surgery trends in 2022 is eyelid surgery. Again, this cosmetic procedure is being propelled by the Zoom Boom phenomenon.

Eyelid surgery is performed when a person is looking to remove sagging skin from the eyelids. This is a standard procedure used to reduce the signs of aging and help people who suffer from a condition known as hooded eyelids, making the eyes appear smaller.

Liposuction

Liposuction is another one of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures on the market today. Liposuction is a procedure used to remove excess fat from the body. The fat is removed through small tubes inserted into the body. This is typically done under general or local anesthetics and is a popular procedure used to help people remove fat from the thighs, buttocks, and abdomen, which can make the body appear slimmer.

With more people feeling uncomfortable in their skin due to the weight they've put on during the pandemic, experts believe that the number of patients expected to seek out liposuction will increase through 2022.

Brazilian Butt Lift

Brazilian Butt Lifts (also commonly referred to as BBLs) are one of the most sought-after plastic surgery procedures in the world today. The BBL is a procedure designed to improve the appearance of the posterior and is performed using a series of incisions and surgical procedures designed to reshape and lift the buttocks and reduce the appearance of cellulite.

Abdominoplasty

Abdominoplasty is another one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures on the market today. It is used to reduce the abdomen’s appearance, making the body appear slimmer. Abdominoplasty is a procedure used in conjunction with liposuction to help patients remove fat from the abdomen. It is expected to be in demand in the coming months as more people feel uncomfortable in their skin due to the weight they have put on during the pandemic.

New Year, New You – Dr. Binder Is Here to Help!

If you're looking to make some changes to your life in the new year, and they involve enhancing your appearance, then Dr. Binder is here to help!

Dr. Binder is a gifted surgeon who is well known for his unsurpassed skill in providing his patients with the best results that they could achieve.

If you’re considering plastic surgery in the new year, then schedule your consultation today!

No doubt you’ve participated in conversations—after seeing an old friend—about how young she looks. Or, maybe, she was trying to look young through obvious plastic surgery or cosmetic procedures, such as too much Botox or overfilled lips. 

With either situation, we bet money (and we don’t bet often – we’re a medical practice after all) that you’ve heard friends say in hushed tones – “well, you know she’s had work done.” Maybe she has. Maybe she hasn’t. 

Today, it’s harder to tell if plastic surgery or cosmetic procedures have been done correctly. 

Having “work done” is a personal choice. And, we’re not here to convince you of undergoing plastic surgery procedures or sitting back and letting nature take its course. However, if you decide to have a procedure or two, we want you to be informed about what plastic surgery looks like today.

The Past: Looking Down on Women Opting for a Plastic Surgery Procedure

In the past, women were often looked down upon – or otherwise judged harshly – for getting work done. Perhaps people judged them for wanting to hang on to their youth. Or maybe that they had low self-esteem. Or that they only wanted to attract men. 

Bad cosmetic surgery procedures didn’t help matters. Most plastic surgeons will tell you that procedures should result in subtle transformations in appearance, not immediately recognizable and drastic changes.  

Here are some “not-so-subtle” results:

1. A pulled look from a bad facelift, where the skin on the face looks pulled back towards the ears or up to the scalp.
2. A tight forehead, where your face looks frozen from too much Botox, making it impossible for you to create natural expressions.
3. A pixie ear, where your earlobes are elongated (resembling the ears of a pixie) after a bad facelift.
4. Unnatural proportions often resulting from bad breast or butt augmentations, making you look like you could literally tip over.
5. No natural body movement after surgery, such as breasts that are rock hard, showing no natural movement or feel. 

The Present: Normalizing Having Work Done

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons’ most recent 2020 annual statistics, “$16.7 billion was spent on cosmetic procedures in the U.S.,” despite the global pandemic. 

Although the overall number of procedures was lower than those completed in 2019, “11% of women surveyed said they are more interested in cosmetic plastic surgery or non-surgical procedures now than before COVID-19 –  and the figure is even higher among women who have already had surgery or a procedure.”

Not only has the COVID pandemic had an impact on interest in plastic surgery, but younger generations have also normalized these procedures, helping to remove any judgment and stigmas. 

For example, “Millennials and Gen Z are seeking plastic surgery options earlier than any other generation, making it more the norm rather than a secret of the rich.” In 2018, adults under 34 underwent more cosmetic surgery procedures than those in the 51 to 64-year-old age group, according to the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. 

Through this trend, “Millennials and Gen Z are effectively erasing any stigma around plastic surgery through social media, selfies, and attitudes towards health and aging, including ‘preventive’ procedures such as Botox injections. By normalizing these procedures as a part of your regular self-care routine, these procedures will likely continue to rise in popularity.”

Despite the rise in popularity, “[f]or many, a reticence remains, and—fearing stigma or backlash or something else–they keep it under wraps,” according to Town & Country. But, lucky for these patients, the stigma will continue to disappear as plastic and cosmetic procedures continue to become more popular – and more frequently discussed – moving acknowledgment of these procedures out of the shadows and into the light. 

The Future: What to Expect in the Plastic Surgery Field

Often today, we talk about before COVID and after COVID. Or the “old normal” and the “new normal.” Plastic and cosmetic procedures aren’t left out of this comparison – in fact, they are a top topic in the medical field. 

As the American Society of Plastic Surgeons reflects, “[m]any are wondering if this increased interest in plastic surgery in general and facial procedures, in particular, is going to last once the pandemic is finally brought under control. While this is difficult to predict, most likely, these plastic surgery trends will continue even after the masks are put away.”

With the work-from-home model dominating employee-employer relationships, and Zoom dysmorphia impacting how we view ourselves, many patients seek a more balanced, aesthetically pleasing image. 

Additionally, with Millennials aging, with the oldest members of that generation turning 38 this year, they realize that “they are no longer the young kids on the block.” As noted by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, “[u]nlike previous generations, they are facing 40 while living in an online world. Even if the new normal were to fully disappear, social media will not.”

According to Baylor College of Medicine, plastic surgery techniques and technology continue to improve (dramatically, we might say). Further, plastic surgeons “better understand aging and its physiological and anatomical effects,” allowing plastic surgeons to better address “facial and total body concerns.” 

Because of these continued medical advances, plastic and cosmetic procedures will continue to enhance images through subtle transformations. And the key here is that people will not be able to tell if you’ve had work done – unless you choose to tell them. 

And, with a board-certified plastic surgeon, you can fully understand your options and results, giving you a natural look – whether you’re on Zoom calls or aging gracefully. So, contact us today to learn more about plastic and cosmetic surgery – giving you the subtle transformation you desire. 

According to Dictionary.com, the last two years have created an entirely new vocabulary – from social distancing to flattening the curve. We've also seen new terms emerge around our appearance as we continue to work from home while on video conferences day-in and day-out.

With people now spending hours on video-conferencing tools like Zoom or Microsoft teams – for both personal and work events or meetings – we all have plenty of time to scrutinize our images, often creating distortions in perception. 

One term that has made headlines of late is “Zoom dysmorphia,” which according to Science Direct occurs when “patients seek cosmetic procedures to improve their [perceived] distorted appearance on video-conferencing calls.” With Zoom becoming a part of our everyday lives, many people are seeking plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures to correct or enhance those perceptions – thus, guiding many procedures in 2021.

Looking Back to 2020 to Predict 2021’s Top Procedures

Before we look at the procedures that dominated 2021, let’s first look back to 2020. After all, looking backwards can often help predict trends for not only 2021 – but beyond into 2022. 

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the top procedures in 2020 were:

The top five cosmetic surgical procedures:

• Nose reshaping
• Eyelid surgery 
• Facelift
• Liposuction
• Breast augmentation

The top five cosmetic minimally invasive procedures:

• Botox injections
• Soft tissue fillers
• Laser skin resurfacing
• Chemical peels
• Intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments

Top Cosmetic Surgery and Procedures in 2021

Although we didn’t know it then, 2020 was only the beginning of the pandemic. As we rounded the corner into 2021, we’re not sure anyone expected COVID-19 to hang around for the entire year – essentially directing how we live and work. 

As businesses tried to get back to “normal,” employers adopted work from home policies and turned to video-conferencing as the “norm” for meetings and collaboration. Although Zoom meetings allowed us to resume working into 2021, video-conferencing platforms created other physical issues and demands.

From Zoom fatigue to Zoom dysmorphia, workers worldwide were confronted with entirely new issues – such as pure exhaustion for day-long video meetings to staring at our own images, hours on end. 

As reported by the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS), 83 percent of respondents in a 2021 survey indicated that the "Zoom effect" influenced behavior changes, such as undergoing plastic surgery. 

Further, a recent study published in AAFPRS's journal, Facial Plastic Surgery & Aesthetic Medicine, found that "ZOOM dysmorphia" had "a huge impact on the way we view ourselves." Simply, “through this hyperawareness of our images on live video (with no filters), people are turning to plastic surgery to fix imperfections and balance facial structure, creating a more pleasing look (and boosting self-confidence).”

In April 2021, The Economist introduced yet another term:  Zoom face-envy, when those on video-conferences compare their skewed impression of their own image with others. Because of this, “[t]he American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery reckons that the pandemic has led to a 10% increase in cosmetic surgery countrywide.”

With all of this self-examination and comparison, here are four of the most popular procedures that took place in 2021:

1. Masseter Botox®

To say that people were stressed and exhausted in 2020 and 2021 is very much the understatement of the young decade.  And when stressed, many of us clench or grind our teeth we sleep. 

Because of this, the masseter muscle is “one of the muscles activated during chewing, and it’s located at the angle of the mandible (jaw).” When we clench our jaw or grind our teeth, extra tension is applied to this muscle, causing pain and weakening the masseter muscle. Masseter Botox® blends beauty and wellness by thinning and softening the jaw while reducing pain within one to two weeks. 

2. Nanofat

If you’re looking for fillers that look more natural and long-lasting, nanofat emerged as “a whole new level of facial fat injections” for 2021. Since traditional fillers can often appear and feel lumpy instead of smooth. 

Nanofat, on the other hand, smooths into a “milkshake-like consistency” more along the lines of Juverderm® or a hyaluronic acid injection.  And a bonus?  It’s permanent. 

3. The “Eyes” Have It  

And we don’t have to tell you, pandemic stress and fatigue often reflects in our eyes – from dark circles to droopy or swollen lids. From upper eyelid blepharoplasty to undereye filler to Botox brow lifts, many patients sought procedures that would lighten and brighten their eyes, making them look less stressed, younger, and – well, more awake. Think of it as a more permanent undereye concealer.

4. Liposculpting

As its name suggests, liposculpting is a variation on liposuction, where fat is removed from the body. However, with liposculpting, the physician does more than just removes unwanted fat. Through liposculpting, your body is reshaped, improving your body’s contour. 

Ideal candidates are over 18 years of age and no more than 25 pounds over their ideal body weight. Additionally, the fat has not disappeared naturally through diet and exercise. 

With COVID 15 (pounds that is), there is no doubt that this procedure will continue to be popular as we move into 2022. 

Thinking about exploring some cosmetic procedures as we move into a new year?  To get the most accurate information on cosmetic procedures, be sure to talk to a board-certified plastic surgeon.  Contact us today to learn more. 

On your TikTok FYP, you may have started seeing #BBL or #BBLjourney pop up.  Trending into the billions, #BBL has caught the attention of many – including critics.  And for good reason.

BBL stands for “Brazilian Butt Lift,” popularized by Kim Kardashian and others. When receiving a BBL, the surgeon takes fat from one part of the body through liposuction, transferring it to your hips, thighs, and butt, giving you that voluptuous fat-bottomed look.

Like many social media users, TikTokers are showing their before and after pictures, not only showing off their bigger booties but claiming the surgical procedure gives them the #BBLeffect. Sarcastically coined by TikToker Antoni Bumba, the “BBL effect is the unbothered confidence of those who have elected to bolster their buttocks,” essentially creating an unattainable savage diva effect.

Yes, you read that correctly.

Although many TikTokers are finding laughs in the #BBLeffect, poking fun at a cosmetic surgery that can change your attitude, the numbers don’t lie about this procedure’s skyrocketing popularity.

Citing the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, Business Insider stated that in 2020, 40,000 butt augmentation surgeries were performed, raking in $140 million in revenue, with these surgeries increasing 90.3 percent between 2015 and 2019.

Additionally, with these surgeries dropping in costs, nationally from $5,507 to $3,329 on average, the procedure is more affordable. However, these lower prices haven’t prevented droves of patients from traveling to other countries, such as Mexico, in pursuit of cheaper procedures.

So, why the concern with TikTok boosting BBL posts?  Read on to learn about the potential dangers of this social media frenzy.

What Are the Dangers Associated with BBL?

With all surgical procedures, dangers can exist.  From going to an untrained surgeon to practices resulting in death, a BBL is not something to take lightly.

But couple that with the fact that TikTok is glorifying (and trivializing) plastic surgery to its primary audience—teens and children—it’s unsettling to say the least that young women are seeking to undergo surgery that alters their physical appearance when they’re not even done growing.

Potential Health Risks

When cosmetic surgeries become overly popular, you may find a host of unqualified, unlicensed practitioners willing to perform the procedure with unregulated standards of care in non-approved facilities, clearly putting profits above health and well-being.

Some physicians (not surgeons) can take an online or weekend class, learning how to perform a BBL. However, not going to a board-certified plastic surgeon can cause a higher risk of harm to willing patients, such as death, heart or pulmonary fat embolism (PFE), or irreparable physical damage.

A national medical malpractice law firm highlighted a traumatizing illustration of the dangers of a BBL when a 40-year-old woman died from a butt augmentation. According to the firm, the patient died during the surgery when “a vein deep in the patient’s buttocks was injured causing the fat being injected for the buttock lift to enter the bloodstream.  The medical examiner also found fat clots spread throughout the patient’s organs, heart, and lungs.” In this case, the surgeon was not board-certified in a specialty and did not carry any medical malpractice insurance.

In other cases, physicians may use fillers or silicone instead of fat.  Although both have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), they are federally approved for breast or aging procedures, not butt augmentation. Using these products can give you undesirable results or may create significant complications, including death.

Other risks of BBL procedures include infection, bruising, stretch marks, blood clots, deep vein thrombosis, excessive blood loss, and complications from anesthesia or liposuction.

The Industry’s Response

In response to surgical abuses and the highest death rate of any cosmetic surgery, the American Association of Plastic Surgeons, the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, International Society of Plastic Regenerative Surgeons, International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and the International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science formed the “Task Force for Safety in Gluteal Fat Grafting [the BBL Task Force] with the goal of conducting studies to develop specific safety guidelines.”

Representing board-certified plastic surgeons, this task force issued an advisory to surgeons in 2018, “urging discussion of these risks with patients and providing additional recommendations for the safe performance of the procedure.”

If you’re interested in getting this procedure but want it done safely and correctly, read on.

What Should You Consider Before Getting a BBL?

As recommended by the BBL Task Force, before signing up for a BBL procedure, consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in doing butt augmentations. Be sure to ask questions during this consultation, knowing how the surgery may impact your body. Ask about the surgeon’s fat injection techniques, understanding all the in’s and out’s of the surgery. Finally, ask about what risks or complications may occur and what you should do if they appear.

Your physician should also advise you on what to do pre-surgery and post-surgery, with safety as a priority. Additionally, your surgeon should discuss any medications you’re taking and how to handle these doses before and after the surgery.

Aging gracefully.  Sometimes Father Time makes the “gracefully” part challenging.  For many signs of aging, such as graying hair, a visit to your local stylist can fix that with hair dye.  However, what about your eyes?

You may have laugh lines that add character to your face. Those dark circles?  You finally found good makeup for those. 

But then there are saggy eyelids.  Developing in our late thirties and early forties, this droopiness may make you look more tired and older than you care to admit. 

A popular cosmetic surgery procedure, blepharoplasty (or “bleph” for short) is “an outpatient procedure that involves trimming excess tissue (that includes skin, muscle and fat) from around the eyelids. It can be performed by an ophthalmologist, oculoplastic surgeon, plastic surgeon, oral or maxillofacial surgeon, or ear, nose and throat surgeon.”

Some patients opt for blepharoplasty for cosmetic reasons, as we discussed above. Other patients, however, choose this procedure to correct vision issues as sagging eyelids can impair your vision. Surgery can be performed on both the upper and lower lids. 

Read on to see if you’re a good candidate for eyelid surgery.

Are You a Good Candidate for Blepharoplasty?

To fully know if you are a good candidate for eyelid surgery, consult with a board-certified physician with significant experience in blepharoplasty procedures. However, here are some things to consider when determining if this surgery is right for you:

• You’re physically healthy.
• You have no health conditions that can interfere with healing.
• You’re a non-smoker.
• You don’t have any eye conditions, such as dry eyes, that can interfere with the surgery itself or the healing process.

Your physician can weigh these conditions during your consultation, advising you if you’re a good candidate for surgery. Of course, in deciding whether to move forward, you should discuss the possible risks involved while expressing any expectations and concerns. Information is abundant but not always reliable, so it is always best to openly discuss the process and your concerns with your surgeon.

What to Expect Before the Surgery?

Before surgery, be prepared to have both a vision and physical exam done. You’ll also be instructed to arrange for transportation on the day of the surgery, as you will be unable to drive. You may also be asked to discuss your medical history and to avoid specific medicines, such as aspirin, before the procedure, as they can often cause bruising and excessive bleeding. Additionally, if you’re a smoker, you’ll be advised to stop smoking so as not to interfere with your healing process.

What to Expect During the Surgery?

During the surgery, you may be put under general anesthesia.  If you have ever had any adverse reactions to anesthesia in the past, be sure to tell your doctor in your pre-surgery consultation. 

Some doctors, however, may give you a mild sedative or local anesthetic, where you’ll be awake during the procedure. Discuss these options with your doctor, determining which is best for you.

Next, the doctor creates an incision, opening up the eyes by removing excess skin and fat from the area, improving your appearance. This may also help in fixing any overhanging skin that could be affecting your vision. Incisions are made in the natural folds of the eyelid, making scarring virtually unnoticeable once the healing process is complete.

Here are some standard techniques used during a blepharoplasty procedure:

Transconjunctival Blepharoplasty

This procedure is ideal for younger patients, who have fatty pockets under their eyes but no excess skin.

Transconjunctival Blepharoplasty with the Pinch Technique

This procedure is ideal for patients who have only a small amount of excess skin under their lower lid, utilizing a pinch technique.

Peels and Laser Resurfacing of the Lower Eyelid

In situations where a patient has excessive fine wrinkling or discoloration in the lower lid, a chemical peel or laser resurfacing can be performed along with surgery.

External Incisions & Canthoplasty

More severe eyelid conditions may require a reconstructive approach. These conditions include drooping lower lids, sagging skin and muscle of the lower lids, and tear trough deformity. Board-certified plastic surgeons may use various methods to shape and perfect the eye area, brightening the patient’s face.

Eyelid incisions are typically closed with skin glue or sutures. If sutures are used, then they are usually removed within a week.

What to Expect After the Surgery?

Like many cosmetic procedures, your results will appear gradually as the bruising and swelling diminish. Sutures will either dissolve or be removed within a week after the surgery. Patients can expect to experience some short-term discomfort such as light sensitivity, watery eyes, or dry eyes. You may also experience some discomfort or itching at the incision points.

Although severe complications are rare, patients should avoid straining or heavy lifting, rubbing the eyes, or wearing contacts, immediately following surgery. They should also make sure to wear darkly tinted sunglasses to protect their eyes from sunlight. You should also sleep with your head raised higher than your chest for a few days. Be gentle when cleaning the eyelids, and avoid makeup for ten days.

As you recover, you may use cold compresses or lubricating ointments, helping with any discomfort you may experience. Your doctor will give you further instructions for care, such as which oral medications are permissible. Further, your doctor will set a follow-up appointment, checking your healing process.

Schedule a Consultation

Ready to look bright and refreshed? Schedule a  consultation with Dr. Binder today to discuss what blepharoplasty can do for you. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, Dr. Binder has the skills and expertise to give you the results you deserve.

Ah, summer. Sand, waves, and a good beach read. Many of us dream of having this kind of downtime, helping us to recharge and regroup.

However, those summer rays can do some damage if you’re not careful. Remember your freckles as a kid? Or that vacation where your shoulders and face burned?  Or, if you’re of a “certain age,” maybe you laid out with baby oil. On foil. Yikes.

All of these examples can cause or are signs of sun-damaged skin, which can appear as early as our teens or 20s.

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, if you’ve received five or more sunburns over your lifetime, you have doubled your risk for melanoma. Further, 90 percent of “skin aging is caused by the sun.” Sun damage is also cumulative. Each year of too much sun exposure can increase damage to your skin. 

But all’s not lost. The damage to sun-soaked skin can be reversed if you know your options. 

Read on to learn about how Botox can help reverse your sun-damaged skin.

Signs of Sun-Damaged Skin

Signs of sun-damaged skin are numerous, depending on the pigmentation of your skin and your exposure. However, common signs include:

• wrinkles, 
• dark or sunspots, 
• uneven skin tone, 
• blotchiness or redness, or
• dry, coarse, or leathery skin texture. 

When the sun damages our skin, it essentially breaks down the skin’s structure, weakening it.  Further, the resulting damage often does not appear until years after the exposure.  

How to Protect Yourself

The best way to protect yourself from sun exposure is to—well—stay out of the sun.  Although this is an impossibility for most of us, the theory itself can be extended to everyday life.

For example, you can wear a hat to shield the sensitive skin on your face from the sun. You can sit in the shade or under a beach umbrella, preventing the sun’s rays from wrinkling or blotching your skin. 

Further, unlike the lack of advice in the 70s and 80s, now, it’s common to hear about the benefits of sunscreen, for your face, body, and lips. According to Cleveland Clinic, most people should use sunscreen with lead at 30 sun protection factors (SPF). If you’ve had skin cancer yourself or your family has a history of skin cancer, you should wear a higher SPF.

You can also use facial moisturizers and creams containing retinoids, vitamin C, and antioxidants. These elements can reduce the appearance of sunspots as well as the size of your pores, giving you a more youthful look. 

Don’t forget to shed those dull, dead skin cells with exfoliants, helping with uneven skin tones, dry skin, and clogged pores. 

With proper guidance, you can also pursue chemical peels, laser therapy, or lightening agents, evening out your skin tone while removing sunspots and blemishes caused by sun exposure. Again, be sure you work with someone skilled in these procedures, giving your look a boost. 

How Does Botox Help to Reverse Sun Damaged Skin?

Botox Is one of the “most versatile medical tools” available today. In addition to treating migraines, bladder disorders, and TMJ, Botox is most used “to eliminate the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the face and neck,” including those caused by sun exposure.

The drug Botox is typically administered through an injection, weakening and paralyzing the underlying muscle. Because of this paralysis, Botox can reduce the appearance of wrinkles by smoothing the skin. With the sun potentially causing deeper lines and wrinkles, Botox injections may be an ideal treatment.

 It’s important to know that Botox doesn’t eliminate wrinkles.  However, with proper use of Botox and as advised by your dermatologist or plastic surgeon, you can reduce the appearance of sun damage for three to six months before you need another injection. Over time, you may find that you only need two injections yearly to maintain your desired appearance. 

Even if your teens or 20s are well in the past, it’s never too late to protect your skin from sun exposure. However, just like with any procedure, cutting corners is not advised. Instead, a qualified and experienced physician can analyze previous damage to your skin, informing you of the best approach forward. So, to get that youthful, smooth skin, contact us today!