How Do Scars Form on Our Skin?

, Skin Treatment

Like it or not, scars are a natural part of life, and most of the time, it’s hard to escape childhood without racking up at least a few cuts and bruises along the way. In order to make it easier to learn how to heal scars and how to further care for your skin, it is vital to better understand the process behind skin and scarring.

The skin is a sensory organ, the body’s largest organ, and when opened, either by accident or through surgical incisions, the injury typically results in a scar. As such, scars represent the final phase of the body’s healing or repair process after skin is damaged, occurring as a direct result of everything from burns, surgery, or skin conditions to any significant traumas. Even a procedure as simple as ear-piercing can sometimes cause a deforming scar or keloid.

Scar Formation

Scars form due to damage of the dermis (deep, thick layer of skin), as the body works to form new collagen fibers that then result in a scar.

Initial phases of the wound healing process include control and cessation of bleeding and sealing the wound to prevent the penetration of bacteria or potential infection. Collagen is then used to repair and close the wound. Scars form after a wound heals, usually having a different texture and quality than the surrounding tissue. The entire healing process can be imagined as human cement that is utilized by the body to fill up a hole—i.e. the wound.

Types of Scars

There are various different types of scars, ranging from the more typical flat and pale-looking to more raised scars called hypertrophic scars or keloid scars that occur when the body produces too much collagen. Other scars have a more sunken or pitted appearance, occurring when underlying structures supporting the skin (ex. fat or muscle) are lost.

Scars can also appear in the form of stretched skin. These occur as a result of rapid skin stretching, as in growth spurts or during pregnancy, or when the skin is under tension or near a joint during the healing process.

Best Scar Treatments

Like scars themselves, the various treatment options for scars range widely. If very early on, some scars should be vigorously massaged with a moisturizer several times a day for about one minute, as the active movement helps reorganize not yet mature collagen bundles that are forming during the repair of the injury. The moisturizer not only decreases friction on the tender new scar but also provides moisture to the area. Some choices such as cocoa butter and vitamin E oil are often quite effective.

One important thing to remember is to stay away from sunlight because immature scars need to be amply protected from the sun in order to prevent hyperpigmentation or becoming overly dark. Some of the best scar treatments available include:

• Steroid injections: Long term courses of steroid injections into a scar may help flatten it by helping soften the appearance of keloid or hypertrophic scars.
• Dermabrasion: Removes the surface of the skin with special equipment and is especially useful when a scar is raised above the surrounding skin (though it is less useful for the treatment of sunken scars). Microdermabrasion, a less invasive form of dermabrasion, can also be minimally useful for very superficial scars.
• Laser Resurfacing: Similar to dermabrasion, resurfacing removes the surface layers of the skin using different types of lasers. The advanced technology results in little down time as opposed to traditional laser resurfacing and dermabrasion, which both require a long recovery.
• Radiotherapy: Low-doses of superficial radiotherapy can be used to prevent the recurrence of severe keloid and hypertrophic scarring.
• Filler injections: Though the effects of injections are only temporary, they can be used to raise sunken scars to the level of surrounding skin. Procedures need to regularly repeated and there are many newer forms of injectable fillers now on the market that may be good to consider.
• Surgery: Although it is not recommended in cases of hypertrophic or keloid scarring (raised scars), surgery can be used to alter a scar’s initial shape or to make it less noticeable.

The formation of scars after surgery or trauma to the skin is an inevitable fact of life that needs to be dealt with as it occurs—whether we like it or not. It is important to be proactive in regards to the treatment of scars early on in order to maximize the outcome of their final appearance.

Let Dr. William J. Binder, an experienced, acclaimed, and world-leading facial plastic surgeon help with the best scar treatments available today. Contact his office today to find out more about ways to prevent scarring or to schedule a consultation.

How to Choose a Rhinoplasty Surgeon

, rhinoplasty

Preparing for a rhinoplasty, just like any surgery can be nerve-wracking, but feeling confident that you’ve chosen the right plastic surgeon can help put you at ease. With so many rhinoplasty surgeons out there, however, the options can be overwhelming. That’s why it’s helpful to be able to narrow down the sea of cosmetic surgeons to find the rhinoplasty surgeon that’s right for you. Here is everything you should investigate regarding your plastic surgeon when preparing for a rhinoplasty.

Examine Their Qualifications

Not all plastic surgeons are alike, but there are ways to tell the good from the bad and the best from the good. Look for a plastic surgeon with many years of experience and is certified by at least one plastic surgery board. If they’ve sat on the board or held a leadership position, that’s even better. Try to find a surgeon who teaches other surgeons or has held fellowships in facial plastic surgery and has had their work published in peer-reviewed journals. Choosing a specialist in facial plastic surgery is ideal.

Look at Their Work

A highly skilled and qualified surgeon isn’t enough, however. You also want to make sure that the appearances that the rhinoplasty surgeon is creating are consistent with your aesthetic goals and desires. A plastic surgeon may be excellent at their job, but simply not create the aesthetic you want, so patients should review the end results of rhinoplasties performed by any potential rhinoplasty surgeon. These types of images are usually easily accessible through the surgeon’s website, and more before and after images will typically be shown at a consultation with the surgeon. Use before and after images to determine whether the surgeon has experience with noses like yours and how he or she modifies them.

rhino-success-conceptDon’t Try to Cut Costs

Plastic surgery can be costly, particularly since it is rarely covered by insurance, so it can be tempting to try to go for the cheapest possible option for your surgery, but cosmetic surgery is one of those things where you get what you pay for, and bad results can cost you more in the long term. You only want to have to have rhinoplasty surgery once, but a bad rhinoplasty can lead to not only unattractive results, but also severe medical problems, either of which can lead to the necessity for revision rhinoplasty.

Though money might have been saved on the initial rhinoplasty procedure, the additional cost of a revision rhinoplasty makes the total cost far more than what it would have been to pay for a more expensive and qualified surgeon in the first place.

To avoid bad results and costly problems, always to be sure to look at any potential rhinoplasty surgeon’s reputation, qualifications, and results in addition to the cost. If you have specific goals in mind and find an excellent surgeon in another city, you may even want to pay a little more to travel to ensure that you get the right surgeon to get exactly the results you want. Doing the necessary preparations will only ensure that preparing for a rhinoplasty is a one-time ordeal.

Schedule a Consultation

You wouldn’t hire someone for a job without an interview, so why would you hire a cosmetic surgeon without talking to them first? Once you’ve narrowed down possible cosmetic surgeons, you can schedule a consultation with each one. During this consultation, your potential rhinoplasty surgeon should discuss the cost of the procedure, your general health, possible risks, and whether or not your desires are realistic. If not, you may want to cross that surgeon of the list. Your rhinoplasty surgeon should be informative about what happens before, during, and after your procedure and able to provide clear instructions for your recovery and follow up.

Finally, you should also feel comfortable talking with your surgeon, as you need to be able to easily communicate with each other and you need to feel confident asking any questions you have.

A Leader in Rhinoplasty Surgery

Dr. William J. Binder is one of the world’s leading facial plastic surgery experts. He is based out of Los Angeles, but due to his expertise and decades of experience patients from around the country and even the world come to receive treatment from him. Dr. Binder is extensively published and is board certified by both the American Board of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery and the the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. While his passion is in working with his patients, he also spends much of his time traveling to provide lectures and training to other plastic surgeons. If you have questions about facial reconstruction and want a consultation with the very best, contact Dr. Binder’s office today.

Beautiful women

5 Habits That Are Aging Your Skin

Skin Treatment

Does your skin seem to be aging faster than your actual years? Do you not love what you are seeing in the mirror? Well, it may be time to reassess some of those daily routines because like it or not, how you look and feel as the years progress often depends critically on the choices you make and the habits you acquire throughout the years. When it comes to aging skin care, consistent bad habits will not only threaten the youthful complexion you desire, but will also cause premature skin aging that will add decades to your face. Ditch that unhealthy routine early on and ultimately stop future epidermis woes by simply making some changes to everyday behavior. Here are five common culprits that speed up the aging process of your skin to take note of.

1. Holding Grudges & Carrying Stress

Life is way too precious and too short to hold onto old grudges. Sometimes, forgiving, forgetting, and just letting go can add years to your life as well as make it a lot more productive. What’s more is that you’ll likely notice fewer wrinkles from less frowning, especially around the eyes and on the forehead, as well as more vibrant looking skin from lower blood pressure, less depression, less stress, less anxiety, and overall better physical, psychological, and spiritual well-being.

All that said, nothing can and will make you feel or act older than allowing stress to take the driver’s seat. So, believe it: Stress doesn’t just make you anxious, it also works against aging skin care. Keep your mind young, your skin vibrant, and avoid cognitive impairment by simply letting go. Not only will you avoid acne and oily skin, but disruptions in sebum production, microcirculation, and hydration levels that can all lead to a duller, more aged complexion. Stress also leads to free radical damage, which is another top cause of aging.

2. Skipping Sunscreen & Heavy Toxin Exposure

Aging skin is a natural process and aging skin care demands you be aware of these natural processes and triggers. Daily sun exposure can actually contribute hugely to premature aging by slowing down the turnover of new healthy skin cells and old damaged cells. It is important to remember that UV exposure is the number one named cause of skin aging, as 90% of all visible age signs and 80% of skin-aging free radical damage are caused by everyday time underneath sunlight doing activities like gardening, dog walking, or even driving. Even for those who wear makeup containing SPF, full coverage is not available because layers upon layers upon layer of cosmetics – much more than an average person would wear – would be needed to reach the levels needed for ample protection.

Another cause for concern would be everyday toxins in the air. Though you cannot control pollution in the same way you can control something like fitness and diet, toxin exposure plays a huge role in affecting aging skin care by slowing down cellular growth which allows skin to age more rapidly. Toxins decrease oxygen and collagen in the skin, leading to duller, more blotchy appearances, uneven tone, and constant breakouts. The key to minimizing the risks is protection. So, do not skip on that sunscreen, as SPF protects not just from the rays of the sun, but free radicals that cause aging as well. Remember also to cleanse skin thoroughly every night, to exfoliate twice a week, and to use products filled with antioxidants to help moisturize and stay protected.

3. Lack of Sleep & Incorrect Sleep Positioning

In the short run, insufficient shut-eye causes dark circles under the eyes and a lackluster complexion. But did you know that not getting enough sleep also ages skin prematurely, leading to prolonged dullness and dryness by not allowing cells to receive the full repair and rejuvenation they would otherwise be getting during the normal hours of the night? Sleep deprivation also decreases vital collagen production and raises levels of the hormone cortisol, which increases oil production in the skin and can lead to bouts of acne. In the long run, skimping on Zzzzs can actually be more consequential than most would think — so hit the hay and your skin will be pleased.

Remember also that when it comes to sleeping, positioning in everything. Sleeping on the side or on the stomach increases wrinkles on the sides of the face, brows, and cheeks. For the best aging skin care, how and when you sleep is everything.

4. Smoking & Alcohol

Besides the obvious dangers of smoking and drinking such as heart, lung, and liver disease, there is also the fact that the two inhibit proper blood flow and age skin dramatically. Wrinkles around the mouth area become more visible, skin tone and vibrancy are affected, and skin elasticity breaks down more quickly than ever for those who choose to light up. Wine, beer, and liquor, in addition, severely dehydrate the skin, leaving it quenched for moisture. Without that moisture, skin is more prone to wrinkles and dryness.

Next to UV exposure, smoking and drinking are the worst habits for your skin, not only choking skin’s tissues by depleting them of much needed oxygen (which causes improper functioning that allows skin to become sallow and lined) but also damaging capillaries carrying away damaging free radicals (which leads further to a toxic skin environment and more accelerated aging).

5. Poor Diet Habits

You are what you eat. Everything you put in your body has a direct impact on the skin, and though the connections between diet and overall health are fairly obvious, poor diet actually has a much bigger impact on your skin than anyone would probably realize. Bad habits can cause dullness, puffiness, redness, congestion, acne, faster aging of the skin, and a myriad of other health disorders. High sugar intake, in addition, degrades collagen and elastin, which are the proteins that keep skin soft and supple. Lack of nourishment from vitamins and minerals, especially those found in fruits and vegetables, also shows up on the skin, as the nutrients found in the two feed the skin to keep it youthful, hydrated, and glowing. Make sure your diet also includes fish with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, as well as plenty of fiber from whole grains.

Dr. William J. Binder is experienced, acclaimed, and considered one of the world’s leading facial plastic surgeons. Contact his office today to find out more about ways to prevent aging and to schedule a consultation.

west-palm-beach-plastic-surgery

The Rising Popularity of Male Plastic Surgery

Procedure Overviews

There is a certain perception, perhaps even a stigma, surrounding cosmetic surgery for men. You’ll often hear “that’s for women, I’d never get a facelift” and other similar comments from men if they’re asked about it. We’re hoping to change that industry stigma a little bit because the truth is, more and more men are choosing cosmetic or reconstructive surgery to fix what they see as faults, to get that little bit of a weight loss edge, or to restore a more vibrant and youthful appearance. Whatever the reason, the number of men undergoing elective or reconstructive plastic surgery is only going to go up in the future.

What are the Most Popular Types of Male Plastic Surgery?

There’s no real limitation or gender lines when it comes to who is eligible for plastic surgery, but obviously, there are certain surgeries that appeal to certain demographics more than others. Increasingly, male plastic surgery patients are coming in for anti-aging procedures and other procedures designed to return a more youthful and vibrant appearance. The most common of these are chin, cheekbone and jaw implants, blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), and microdermabrasion and chemical peels that return a healthier, more youthful look to skin that is damaged by sun exposure, gravity, and the passage of time.

Facial Implants

A strong jawline. Powerful chin. Prominent cheekbones. These traditionally masculine facial features are extremely desirable to some men, and they tend to accentuate often sought-after male aesthetics like the rugged, masculine, and powerful male figures that so dominate popular culture. In decades past, if you weren’t born with these features, you had no choice but to live without them.

Now however, custom facial implants are attainable for many, both as a reconstructive option, and as a cosmetic choice to highlight, accentuate, or otherwise “improve” certain features. With recent advances such as three-dimensional computer modeling, CAT scan-assisted facial profiles, and more specialized manufacturing techniques, patients can get a safe, natural looking facial implant that meets their specific needs and surgical goals.

Blepharoplasty for Men

Blepharoplasty is a less well-known, but still extremely popular surgical option for both men and women, particularly working professionals who develop squint and smile lines around the eyes, bags under the eyes, or drooping skin around the eyes. Blepharoplasty can help turn back the clock on the aging that tends to hit us all sooner or later. If the eyes are the windows to the soul, then blepharoplasty is the intense scrub and shine that gets the windows looking clearer, more inviting, and more attractive.

Blepharoplasty can be used to touch up fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes, sagging eyelids, fat deposits that distort and distend the skin around the eye, and to remove or greatly eliminate chronic bags under the eyes, all of which can be very appealing to men.

Skin Resurfacing for Men

A disproportionate number of men work outdoors or in positions where they are exposed to the aging effects of the sun and wind. The wind-chapped, sun-dried look may have been popular in Clint Eastwood’s heyday, but that look has fallen well out of fashion with both men and women. These days, a healthy, youthful appearance tends to be more desirable, especially when it comes to the surface and complexion of facial skin.

Fortunately, there are a number of options available for men who want fresher, younger, and more vital looking skin. For one, there are traditional chemical peels that offer a shot at healthier skin that glows and gives off a much more attractive and healthy look. These peels work by removing the top layer of damaged and dead skin to expose the healthier, better looking skin underneath.

There are also laser treatments that work to do much the same thing, but with far greater control. These laser treatments can not only lessen discoloration and reduce the appearance of wrinkles, but can even tone down or eliminate the appearance of scars.

Making the Appointment

If you have any questions about male plastic surgery, or just want to go over options, give Doctor William J. Binder a call today. Doctor Binder and his team are industry-leading experts in facial cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery, and they will be more than happy to help you decide what, if any, of the many plastic surgery options might be right for you.

laserskinresurfacing

What Laser Skin Resurfacing Does for You

Skin Treatment

Laser skin resurfacing is a cosmetic rejuvenation procedure that uses targeted laser therapy to safely and effectively remove damaged skin one layer at a time to reveal the healthy skin beneath. Because of its relatively lower cost when compared to other skin rejuvenation options, it is rapidly growing in popularity and has benefited from numerous advances in recent years.

Now, skilled cosmetic surgeons and reconstructive surgeons can offer patients an unprecedented level of care thanks to these exciting new tools.

How It Works

Laser skin treatment works by using very finely controlled laser diodes to remove damaged and dead layers or skin in much the same way that a more traditional chemical peel would, but with a much tighter focus and greater overall effectiveness. There are also fewer side effects and less recovery time (typically) with laser skin resurfacing than with more traditional skin resurfacing. There are two main types of lasers used for skin resurfacing. Both are perfectly safe, but have different applications.

● C02 Laser Resurfacing: This technique uses a carbon dioxide laser, either in a modulated pulse or continuous beam, to remove heavily damaged skin. This is by far the most common form of laser skin treatment, and it has a wide range of applications when it comes to skin resurfacing. It can be used to treat more involved conditions such as fine lines and wrinkles, or for scar removal and revision, particularly on sensitive areas around the eyes, nose, and mouth.

● Intense Pulse Light: This laser technique is more suited for younger patients such as young children with birthmarks, or patients with lighter skin pigmentation issues such as varicose veins and skin damage.

What Laser Skin Resurfacing Can Help Treat

Laser skin treatment can help to mitigate a number of skin issues including:

● Fine Lines and Wrinkles
● Blotchy Skin
● Age spots
● Scars
● Acne Pockmarks
● Skin Discoloration

Laser Resurfacing Can Help Fix Discoloration

Skin discoloration is something that can happen to virtually anyone. Most frequently the causes are aging, sun damage, congenital issue, or medical disorder. While laser skin resurfacing can’t fix dramatic discoloration, it can help to even out discoloration and blotchiness to make it less noticeable and easier to conceal. For mild discoloration, such as skin with mild sun damage, laser resurfacing can even out your skin tone to where only you, or a close loved one like a spouse would notice.

Laser Resurfacing for Fine Lines and Wrinkles

Typically, injections such as Botox or surgical lifts are the first thought when it comes to fine line and wrinkle treatment, even though these procedures are typically more invasive and disruptive to a patient’s schedule. Fortunately, laser skin treatment can also be used to treat fine lines and wrinkles such as crow’s feet and smile/laugh lines. For many patients who don’t see great results following lifts, laser resurfacing can be a much more successful option and can even be more successful than other options.

This technique is especially effective for treating crow’s feet and other small lines that develop around the mouth and eyes that can be very difficult to manage with something like Botox or a facelift and still maintain a natural appearance in the short term.

Laser Resurfacing for Scar Removal

Unlike other skin resurfacing procedures, laser skin resurfacing can improve the appearance of any and all types of scars, even acne scars, that other skin resurfacing treatments can’t handle effectively. Laser scar revision is one of the most commonly used scar revision techniques. Laser revision for scars can be used to lessen the severity and noticeability of scars from surgery or injury. Laser resurfacing of facial scars is so effective, primarily, because of its pin-point accuracy and fine control that lets the surgeon target just the scar or other imperfection.

This is especially important when treating something like acne scars, which other scar revision and mitigation therapies can struggle to treat. The same goes for chicken pox scars, and other pockmark type scars from injuries.

Laser Skin Treatment from Doctor Binder

Dr. William J. Binder is an industry-leading plastic surgeon based out of Beverly Hills in Los Angeles, California. Doctor Binder and his team specialize in treating a wide variety of cosmetic and reconstructive facial issues. If you want to learn more about laser skin resurfacing, or one of our other treatment options, contact Dr. Binder’s office today to schedule your consultation.

blog-revent

Botox for Migraines

, Botox

For years, migraine sufferers have dealt with limited or ineffective treatment options for their condition. Sadly, medication options are few in number, and other alternative treatments are marginally effective at best. Fortunately, Botox for migraines can offer safe, effective, long-term relief.

Botox, long used as a way for cosmetic surgeons to bring youthful-looking skin to patients, can now also be used to combat chronic migraines and bring relief to patients that may not have another effective option for treatment. Doctor William Binder pioneered this technique after noticing that Botox patients who also suffered from migraines reported fewer and less severe migraines following their Botox treatment. The treatment has since been adopted by a number of physicians to help bring relief to their patients.

Migraines or Headaches?

There’s sometimes a bit of confusion about what exactly the difference is between a migraine and a regular headache. Neither are particularly fun, but migraines are considerably worse. Migraines can come with nausea, vomiting, pain behind the eyes or on one side of the head, sensitivity to light, smell, touch, and sound, lightheadedness, and blurry vision. Think of it this way: if a headache is an air horn, a migraine is a train horn. Some other migraine symptoms include:

  • Constipation
    ● Mood changes, from depression to euphoria
    ● Food cravings
    ● Neck stiffness
    ● Increased thirst and urination
    ● Frequent yawning

Causes of Migraines

There are a wide variety of things that can cause a migraine. These triggers can include hormonal changes, particularly in women on a hormonal contraceptive, or other individuals undergoing hormone replacement, aged cheese and other salty or overly processed food, food additives such as MSG and aspartame, alcohol (particularly wines with a high sulfite content), stress, skipping regular meals, changes in sleep habits/lack of sleep, and other physical factors such as exertion or head and spinal trauma. Many people also report migraines following changing the weather and rapidly shifting barometric pressure.

So, how have medical practitioners throughout history tried to alleviate their patients’ suffering? It’s been a long, strange trip indeed…

Failed Attempts from the Past

Science has come a long way over the past several centuries, and nobody is more grateful for these upgrades than those who suffer from migraines. Doctors in bygone eras took drastic (and often dangerous) measures to try and cure their wards, but the remedies were often more painful than the condition itself.

Some patients were subjected to the application of a scalding hot iron to try and sear the migraine away. Others were coated in a salve of opium and vinegar until their skulls were slick with the ineffective concoction. Perhaps most notable: one method of treating chronic headaches was to make an incision in the patient’s temple and insert garlic cloves into the fresh wound. Perhaps that would work to keep vampires out of your skull, but it was powerless to migraines.

The 1930s bore witness to a marked improvement in the treatment of this condition. Ergotamine was prescribed to constrict a patient’s blood vessels in an attempt to halt the spread of the headache.

An even more effective class of drug was engineered half a century later; triptans became the gold standard when it came to treating migraines. Even though they have proven beneficial to some patients, triptans can’t prevent the onset of an episode. They can only reduce the duration of a migraine once it has already taken hold, which is a mixed blessing for those who seek help yet desperately want to stave off the next dreaded flood of pain from an imminent recurrence of their condition.

That’s why the pharmaceutical field can really use some help from experts like Doctor Binder when it comes to delivering the treatment migraine sufferers are truly craving.

How Botox Works

Botox is the most commonly used brand of the industrially produced botulinum neurotoxin that is formulated from the Clostridium botulinum bacteria. Neurotoxin? Bacteria? It sounds a little scary when you think about it that way, but it’s actually completely safe when used by medical professionals. In fact, botulinum toxin is one of the most widely used and understood tools in a cosmetic surgeon’s arsenal, and it has been so for decades.

Botox works by essentially interrupting nerve impulses to muscles. This prevents individual muscles and muscle groups from contracting, which in turn causes wrinkles and frown lines to soften and smooth out. This treatment lasts 3-4 months and can be reapplied as necessary. The side effects for using Botox in this way are minimal and usually only include a bit of bruising at the injection site.

Botox for Migraines

Around 1992, Dr. William J Binder began conducting several studies to dig deeply into the usage of Botox for treating facial wrinkles. During this study, Dr. Binder noticed a pronounced improvement in patients that suffered from migraines who underwent cosmetic Botox. Since then, Doctor Binder has become one of the world’s foremost authorities on Botox usage, and is arguably the leading expert when it comes to treating migraines with Botox.

The exact nature of Botox’s effect on migraines is so far unknown, but it is theorized that Botox interrupts the very same nerve impulses that cause migraines, which is very similar to its effects when used for cosmetic purposes. When used to treat migraines, Botox is injected at several spots around the forehead and scalp, and occasionally on the back of the neck towards the base of the skull. This procedure takes less than fifteen minutes and can be performed during a regular office visit, with the patient returning to work immediately. Patients typically see improvements in 2-3 days and can experience relief for up to three months. The procedure is usually done again shortly before this deadline in order to extend the benefits.

Does It Work?

When you suffer from debilitating migraines, you want to skip all of the jargon and get to the bottom line: will Botox relieve my pain or not? According to recent studies, the answer is a resounding and triumphant YES.

Since pain mitigation is the metric by which we measure success in the realm of migraine treatment, it is important to note that the first such study showed an increase in so-called “crystal clear” days. This is the number of days in a given month when a patient experiences zero discomfort or distress due to migraines.

Even when migraines did occur in the survey group, they experienced a significant decrease in the duration of the wave, meaning that Botox offered a much-needed release from the grip of trauma that their condition.

In a related study, researchers attempted to analyze the benefits of repeat injections in the effort to subdue migraine effects more thoroughly. This pool of patients was asked to assess their progress after two rounds of Botox, and 50% of them responded that their number of days enduring headache pain each month was reduced by half.

When the same group was administered five rounds of injections, the number of them who experienced this measure of success rose to a staggering 70%.

Migraine Help from Doctor Binder

While Botox for migraines can be administered by many medical, and even non-medical professionals, getting help from the experts is much more likely to bring the targeted relief that migraine sufferers need. If you are suffering from migraines, contact Dr. William J Binder today to schedule a consultation and find out if you are a candidate for Botox-based migraine relief.

2 beautiful women

Top 6 Nose Job Myths

rhinoplasty

A rhinoplasty, or what is more commonly known as a “nose job”, is a type of surgery performed on the nose to change or improve its shape and function. It is not only done for aesthetic purposes but also because people get their noses done to correct their breathing problems or disfigurement caused by defects at birth or trauma later in life.

If you are planning on getting a nose job, then it is crucial that you do your research first. This is critical because you need to separate the myths from facts that surround this extremely popular cosmetic procedure. The following are the top six nose job myths.

Myth #1: Any plastic surgeon can perform a nose job

Rhinoplasty is a critical procedure, but a lot of patients think that any plastic surgeon can perform a nose job surgery. The nose is considered one of the most complicated parts of the body because of its intricate anatomy. Thus, a nose job should not be done by just any plastic surgeon. Only board-certified facial plastic surgeons that have performed many rhinoplasty procedures are certified to perform this process.

On the bright side, surveys show that 83.6% of patients were satisfied with their nose job procedure… which means that 16.4% were dissatisfied. Don’t be in that minority. When you look for a plastic surgeon that can perform rhinoplasty on you, make sure that you ask about his or her board certification for facial plastic surgery as well as the number of nose jobs they have performed.

Myth #2: Rhinoplasty is a very simple procedure

Just because the nose is a tiny bump on your face does not mean that the procedure is simple. The main reason why rhinoplasty is a very complicated procedure is that even a millimeter of change done in one area of the nose can lead to a very dramatic change in terms of function, ease of breathing, and overall look of the entire nose.

For instance, reducing the nose bridge requires the plastic surgeon to make small cuts in the interiors bones to balance out the look of the nose. The anatomy of the nose alone makes this procedure very complicated.

Myth #3: It is an expensive procedure

Contrary to popular belief, there are many ways you can save money on this procedure. First, many insurance companies can cover some of the cost of rhinoplasty under special conditions. For instance, patients who have a deviated septum due to trauma can have their insurance companies approve the funding of their rhinoplasty. On the other hand, if the purpose is purely for aesthetics, you can still get financial interventions by inquiring with your doctor. Some doctors provide such financial options for people who want to get rhinoplasty.

Before you embark upon your foray into cosmetic surgery, be aware of the various fees you may incur along the way:

  • The cost of the actual surgery
  • Paying the anesthesiologist (who may or may not be in the same network as your surgeon)
  • Hospital fees (again, inquire about your insurance plan/network before you book your stay)
  • The cost of the medical tests that precede your procedure
  • The price of the pain medication you may need after the surgery
  • Paying for any specialized compression garments your doctor might recommend

Myth #4: You can get any nose that you want

As mentioned earlier, the anatomy of the nose is very complicated and each patient represents a lot of uniqueness. Having said this, you cannot get any nose that you want. Ethical plastic surgeons will always design a new nose for you that will not only look good on your overall appearance but will also improve its function.

If you still insist on getting the nose that you want, then you might end up having breathing problems in the end. So, make sure that you always communicate clearly with your surgeon. That way, he or she can make recommendations to balance your desires and health.

Myth #5: Rhinoplasty is painful

Nose jobs have come a long way since their infamous inception. The first such procedure dates back approximately 2,500 years to ancient India and involved removing a flap of skin from the patient’s cheek to craft a new nose.

The reality is, modern rhinoplasty is not a painful procedure. During the procedure, the patient is placed under general anesthesia. So they will never feel any pain during the entire operation. Once awake, doctors will give them pain medications to reduce the discomfort. Although not entirely painful, there are some discomforts such as swelling around the eyes, bruising, and congestion but they naturally relieve themselves after a week. No cheeks required.

Myth #6: Only women get nose jobs

Although most of the patients who get nose jobs are women, the number of men who are also getting this procedure is on the rise. According to recent statistics, male cosmetic surgery has skyrocketed over 100% over the course of the past generation, meaning it’s not just for women anymore.

Male patients get rhinoplasty to improve the cosmetic and functional performance of their noses. So, if you are a man and you want to get rhinoplasty but you’re hesitating because it is a popular procedure among women, think again!

Rhinoplasty in Los Angeles with Doctor Binder

If you feel like you may be a candidate for rhinoplasty, or you’ve been recommended to have one by another medical professional, contact Doctor Binder to schedule an appointment today. During your consultation, you will be encouraged to discuss your options and ask any questions you may have in greater detail. Feel free to bring up the myths debunked in the article above!

recommended having one by another medical professional, contact Doctor Binder to schedule an appointment and consultation to discuss your options and any questions you may have in greater detail.

botox for migraine relief

The Beauty of Botox for Migraine Relief

Botox

Are you one of the 3.2 million Americans who live with chronic migraines? Are you tired of trying methods that aren’t working? Well Botox might be the answer to your problems.

What is Botox?

Botox is a well-known cosmetic procedure, most commonly used for reducing facial wrinkles. Botox refers to the brand name of a neurotoxin called botulinum toxin. Despite the complicated sounding name, the diluted form of botulinum toxin in Botox isn’t dangerous. It is administered through injections and allows the affected muscles to relax which reduces or removes wrinkles for up to three to four months.

Botulinum toxin injections have been among the most popular cosmetic procedure since 2000 and continue to increase in popularity. Botox is widely known as a cosmetic procedure but not very many people know that it was originally used as a medical treatment for an eye condition called strabismus. In the 1990s, Dr. Jean Carruthers quickly learned that Botox could be used to treat other medical conditions like face and neck spasms. Today, Botox is used for much more than just reducing wrinkles. Botox is being used to treat chronic pain, chronic migraines, excess sweating and depression. It is effective in most people because it prevents muscle contractions and spasms.

Botox has an older history than most people know. It gained FDA approval in 2002 as a cosmetic treatment, however Botox has been around for much longer than that. Botox is one of the safest and most researched products available on the market.

Botox the Right Way

Even though Botox is safe and well understood, choosing the right person to administer your treatment is essential in achieving the best possible results, especially if you need Botox for medical purposes. Botox must be applied carefully and precisely in order to target just the right muscles while still achieving a natural look, so patients should seek out a licensed and board certified plastic surgeon with ample experience administering Botox treatments.

Dr. William J. Binder is one of the world’s leading experts on Botox and, in fact, was the plastic surgeon who discovered the product’s applications for treating migraines. He is based out of Los Angeles but, due to his expertise and experience, patients from around the country and even the world come to receive treatment from him.

What is a Chronic Migraine?

Chronic migraines are a neurological condition that cause 15 or more headache days a month. Each headache lasts 4 hours or more. They can vary from mild to severe but overall are uncomfortable and unpleasant to deal with. Symptoms include the following:

• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Sensitivity to light and sound
• Change in vision
• Change in sensations and speech

People with chronic migraines experience these symptoms at least 8 days a month, every month.

How does Botox for Migraine Relief Work?

Botox for migraine injections are typically administered once every three months. The exact length of your treatments will be determined by your doctor depending on your needs and response to the Botox. A session to inject Botox is quick and only takes about 15 minutes to complete. The injections go into specific points along the bridge of your nose, your temples, your forehead, the back of your head, back of your neck, and upper back.

Botox treatments can help reduce the symptoms of migraines. This includes nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to lights, sounds, and smells. After receiving Botox injections, it can take up to 10 to 14 days in order to start feeling the benefits of Botox.

Treatment

Dr. Binder is extensively published and is board certified by both the American Board of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, and the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. If you want your Botox treatments from one of the world’s leading plastic surgeons and experts in Botox, contact Dr. Binder’s office today to schedule your consultation.

shutterstock_55364368-2

Surprising Healthy Skin Tips

Health Basics, Lifestyle, Motivation

The skin is the body’s largest barrier against infection. It is also the most abused and the most exposed to damaging irritants and free radicals. The thing is, we are always exposing our skin to factors that can cause damage. For instance, whenever we use soap or rub alcohol on our skin, small cracks and irritation can happen. These cracks can make us more prone to developing infection. It is therefore important that you observe proper skin care. Keeping the skin healthy can help improve the quality and optimal functioning of the skin.

There are many tips and tricks for proper skin care and you may have heard some of them already. But this article is different as we will share surprising tips that will help you make your skin healthy and glowing at the same time.

Eat Your Way to Healthy Skin

Eating fruits and vegetables can make your skin healthy. In a study published the PLoS One journal, researchers found that those who ate more colorful fruits and vegetables have healthier and more attractive skin. The reason for this is that colorful fruits contain carotenoid that boosts the tone of the skin. Moreover, fruits and vegetables contain more Vitamin C that can help fight free radicals that cause premature wrinkles and aging of the skin. Vitamin C also promotes the natural production of collagen in the body. For you to eat your way to healthy skin, make sure that you get 4.5 cups of fruits and vegetables daily.

Don’t Apply Too Much Sunscreen

Do you have the habit of applying too much sunscreen when you get out? If yes, then chances are you are more likely irritating your skin than protecting it from the harmful rays of the sun. Most dermatologists agree that some sunscreens may contain irritants that causes skin rashes to develop. Harmful ingredients in sunscreen include benzophenones, octocrylene and other fragrances. Although the skin rashes look like allergic reactions to sunscreen, they are more like your body’s response to sweat. Sunscreen can potentially cause heat rashes. If you do apply sunscreen, make sure that you apply an ample amount and not slather your entire body with it.

Wash Your Face Twice a Day

Most women have the habit of washing their face as many times as they can. But research shows that washing your face twice a day is actually optimal. As the more you wash your face, the more you strip it from its natural oils that protect the integrity of the skin. Another bad thing about washing your face all the time is that the exfoliant that you use may contain tiny microbeads that are bad for the environment especially the marine life. So, if you wash your skin, make sure that you use a wash cloth instead of exfoliants.

Sleep on Your Back

It may seem strange but your sleeping position can also result in the development of wrinkles on your face. Most people love to sleep on their side or stomach but this has shown to cause wrinkles on the face because your face is pressed on the pillow for long periods of time. The best position to avoid wrinkles is to sleep on your back. However, if you suffer from sleeping problems like sleep apnea and snoring, then sleeping on your back is not such a good idea. If you prefer to sleep on your side, then using a silk pillowcase can ease the pressure on your face while you are sleeping.

Exfoliate in The Morning

Most people have the habit of exfoliating at night before going to bed believing that the exfoliating serums will be better absorbed by the skin. However, this cannot be further from the truth. If you exfoliate in the morning, then you are stimulating good circulation on the skin that, in turn, stimulates collagen. In fact, exfoliating the skin after doing your exercise is better because of the improved circulation that you have after doing any physical activities.

Don’t Apply Anything on Your Nose

Did you know that the nose contains the largest pores in the face? It is where most of the natural oil in our face is secreted. So, if you suffer from blackheads or shiny nose, then don’t do your usual regimen and apply different serums over your nose. By applying serums and creams on your nose, your pores will easily get clogged up. Thus, you end up having more blackheads and, worse, breakouts. If you have to apply something on your nose, it should only be sunscreen and nothing more. Still, if you are worried about your blackheads, you can deal with it by washing your nose with warm water and mild soap. If the pores are not clogged up, your skin will naturally deal with it and it will eventually go away.

Healthy Skin Treatment in Los Angeles with Doctor Binder

If you feel like you may be a candidate for skin treatment in Los Angeles, or you’ve been recommended to have one by another medical professional, contact Doctor Binder to schedule an appointment and consultation to discuss your options in greater detail.

Neck Lift Surgery: When to Get it and What It Involves

, , Uncategorized

neck lift

Unfortunately, aging gets to us all, with signs of our passing years cropping up in different places for all of us. Stubborn fat, wrinkly skin, and sagging in all the wrong places may have you longing for the days of your once-youthful appearance. Fortunately, the current state of medicine allows for some truly magical solutions to just such problems. If you are interested in removing fat, there are several body procedures tailored for all shapes and sizes, if you wish to alter your facial appearance there are a multitude of unique surgeries to fit every individual’s needs. More specifically, within facial cosmetic surgery, there are multiple levels of aesthetic and functional procedures to help restore and rejuvenate your features and skin.

What is Cosmetic Neck Surgery?

The goal of a neck lift procedure (lower rhytidectomy) is to revitalize aging skin around the neck and jawline. Though the term “neck lift” implies strictly a tightening process, the surgery has the ability to shape and sculpt different areas of the neck, even with the potential to be combined with other facial cosmetic procedures.

The skin around our face and neck can be affected by several circumstances, including:

• Heredity factors
• Stress
• Rapid weight loss
• Sun Exposure
• Smoking
• Alcohol consumption
• Gravity
• Other environmental contaminants

These contributors along with just our body’s natural aging process, causes less than desirable changes to occur to our face and neck. Excess neck skin, fat deposits under or around the neck, and irregular contours beneath the jawline can all make us a little less confident than we should be and a little more self-conscious than we have to be. There are a variety of neck lift surgery options available.

Submental

As we age, the muscles in our neck begin to fall and drag the skin down with it. Over time, this is what causes bands to appear around the anterior of the neck. Because these muscles are so important to the structure and smoothness of our neck, they are re-purposed rather than removed. A supportive sling is created by isolating and relocating the platysmal muscles to help reinforce the neck.

Bidirectional Lift

This procedure targets the center and lower potions of the neck. Muscle underneath the chin is isolated and turned upward to reinforce and suspend drooping areas of muscle and fat. The result is a more well-defined jawline and better-contoured neck. The bidirectional lift is known as one of the longer lasting neck lift surgeries available.

Submental Liposuction

Liposuction is a great way to reduce fat around the neck for a smoother and tighter contour. Keep in mind, this is best suited for younger patients with enough skin elasticity around excess fat. Without this flexibility, a submental liposuction can have negative effects on the appearance of the shape of the neck.

Candidacy

If you are in good general health and are free of any existing conditions that could impair the healing process, you are most likely a good candidate for a neck lift surgery. As with any cosmetic procedure, it is always helpful to consult with a qualified cosmetic surgeon to get a clear idea of what you want done and to maintain healthy and realistic expectations for your results.

Dr. Binder’s cosmetic surgery in Beverly Hills is often considered the best option for solutions regarding facial cosmetic surgery. Our office is dedicated to establishing proper communication with prospective patients. Contact us today to schedule a consultation for your neck lift surgery in our Beverly Hills office.

1 … 10 11 12 13 14 … 23