woman-rhinoplasty

Preparing for Your Rhinoplasty Surgery

rhinoplasty

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

Here’s what you need to know when it comes to taking care of yourself before and after rhinoplasty surgery.

Preparing for Rhinoplasty

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

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

The Countdown to Your Rhinoplasty

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

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

After Rhinoplasty Care

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

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

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

  • Headaches
  • Swelling
  • Bruising
  • Nosebleeds

It is important to note that, while nosebleeds are common (especially in the first 48 hours after surgery), you shouldn’t blow your nose as this can adversely affect the rhinoplasty results.

You should be able to return to work and a more normalized routine one week after receiving rhinoplasty. However, you will still have to be careful to avoid strenuous activities, waiting until two weeks after your surgery to participate in sports or return to weight lifting. You shouldn’t participate in any activity that may result in a blow to the nose for approximately eight weeks.

Consult with Dr. Binder

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

facial-skin-care

13 Things You Can Do to Beautify Your Skin

Health Basics, Lifestyle, Motivation

Human skin is a study in contradictions. It’s our barrier to the world and yet it reacts to every stimulus with which it comes into contact. How do we protect the outer layer of our body while promoting its natural glow and vulnerability?

1) Hydrate Inside and Out

As refreshing as a cool blast of water feels on your face, just imagine how the rest of your cells feel when you drink it. Our bodies are predominantly comprised of liquids, so it’s important to maintain a healthy balance of H2O in your system. Staying hydrated serves several functions when it comes to the health of your skin: it replenishes damaged cells, regulates your body temperature and heart rate, and flushes impurities from your body. So enjoy a nice, tall glass of agua with your next shower!

2) Cleansing: Keep It Cool

Speaking of showers, don’t get overheated. Excessively hot water can dry out your skin, so be mindful of the temperature and always be gentle. There is no need for heavy pressure while cleansing. You don’t require anything but your hands for this step, although you may choose to use a washcloth.

3) Massage Products into Your Skin Gradually

While your doctor will encourage you to use moisturizer after cleansing, it’s also important to consider exactly HOW you apply these products. Massage the cream into your flesh in an upward motion, gently working it into the epidermal layer. This is important for all body types, as this is the step that feeds your skin.

4) When Life Hands You Lemons, Eat Them!

Citrus snacks nourish your liver and kidney, which in turn helps replenish your skin’s vitality. Along the way, Vitamin C also prevents wrinkles. Win-win!

5) Exercise for That Extra Glow

Aerobic activities have myriad benefits for the enduring health of your skin:

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

6) Got Chocolate?

Now that you’ve burned those calories, you’ve earned a chance to gain them back! Dark chocolate contains antioxidants, which reduce blemish-inducing toxins. A snack can also make you happy, and happiness promotes endorphins (see the exercise example above)!

7) Have Some Wine with Your Chocolate

Another decadent treat that promotes healthy skin: a glass of red wine. When consumed in moderation, the antioxidants in vino serve up a bevy of health benefits. As always, drink responsibly and consult a professional if you think you are developing a dependence on alcohol.

8) Mask Maintenance

Use masks every one or two weeks to detoxify, renew, and tighten your pores. Before you apply a facial mask, it is important to cleanse and tone. Be sure to leave the mask on your skin for five to 20 minutes, depending on the type you’re using. Gently and thoroughly remove the mask with warm water, and then tone and moisturize your face and neck.

9) Tea Time

Much like water (see above), tea is a mystical skincare product that can be applied externally as well as taken internally. By drinking chamomile tea, you ingest quercetin, a flavonoid (plant pigment) that bolsters your skin’s natural defense against the harmful UV rays of the sun. Other teas boost your immune system (thus guarding against diseases that could sap your skin’s healthy pallor) and aid in digestion (drawing toxins away from your epidermis).

Once you’re done brewing all of those delicious concoctions, save the bags and re-use them for additional skin love. The caffeine in tea shrinks the blood vessels under your epidermis and reduces the bags under your eyes, for example. You can also reach for a cool tea compress to alleviate sunburn pain. Speaking of which…

10) Don’t Skimp on the Sunscreen

This should go without saying, but the sun accelerates the aging process with every minute of exposure to its searing heat. Avoid the worst of these ravages by applying sunblock EVERY time you go outside.

11) Go Nuts!

Almonds are packed with Vitamin E and “good” fats like omega 3’s, all of which promote skin health. Not to mention, they’re loaded with protein that can help you stay active, thus feeding into your overall health even more.

12) Exfoliate with a Gentle Brush

The right brush can stimulate blood flow to the epidermis and exfoliate your skin as it goes. Use circular, upward, gentle motions with very gentle products. Remember that you are simply exfoliating dead skin, which takes very little pressure. Abrasive loofahs or shell powder-based exfoliants are not necessary. Remember to exfoliate your skin no more than every three to five days.

13) Reduce Makeup Use

Now that you’ve got your skin looking fresh and fierce, why cover it up? Excessive makeup clogs your pores and hinders the various successes you’ve achieved with the previous 12 steps.

If you have any questions or concerns about how to properly care for your facial skin, be sure to schedule a consultation with Dr. Binder. He can advise you on any cosmetic procedures you may want to enhance the healthy glow you’ve just attained, and keep you looking your best for years to come.

The 6 Products You Need in Your Skincare Routine:

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

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

Consult with Dr. Binder

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

patient-asking-plastic-surgery-questions

Questions to Ask Before Getting Plastic Surgery

Health Basics, Procedure Overviews

Before having any type of surgery, it is important that you make sure to broach any questions or concerns that you might have about the entire surgery process with your doctor. Here’s a list of some of the questions that you should ask your doctor during your consultation appointment.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

  1. Are you board-certified?
  2. Do you have other professional affiliations?
  3. How long have you been performing this type of procedure?
  4. How many of these procedures have you performed?
  5. What surgery do you perform the most in your practice?

Questions About the Procedure

  1. Which surgery will best address my needs?
  2. How is the surgery performed?
  3. How safe is the procedure?
  4. How long does the procedure usually last?
  5. Are there other options available?
  6. Can I have multiple procedures done at the same time?
  7. Will I need revision surgery?
  8. Am I a good candidate for this procedure?
  9. Will I have visible scars?
  10. What complications may occur and how frequently?
  11. What kind of anesthesia will be used on me during surgery?
  12. Will I be able to speak with the anesthesiologist before surgery?
  13. Who performs the skin care/postoperative follow-up/suture removal?

Questions About Preparing for Plastic Surgery

  1. What do I need to do in the week leading up to surgery in order to prepare?
  2. What preparation is required the day before and the morning of the surgery?
  3. Should my regular medicine be taken the morning of the surgery?
  4. Where will the surgery be performed?
  5. What time should I arrive at the surgery location?
  6. Should someone drive me to and from my surgery?
  7. Will I need to stay overnight?
  8. What sort of clothes should I bring to wear home?
  9. Will I need to see a doctor prior to surgery for examination or testing because of pre-existing medical conditions?
  10. How long before surgery should I stop smoking?

Questions About Post-Surgical Problem Solving

  1. If a problem should arise after I go home, who answers calls after hours and on weekends?
  2. If I need to be seen after hours, where will this occur?
  3. If I need help in my home, is a private duty nurse available?
  4. What if I am unhappy with the results or with the degrees of changes achieved?
  5. If touch-ups are necessary, when would they be performed?

Recovery Questions

  1. How long is the recovery period?
  2. Do any of my medical conditions mean that recovery will last longer than average?
  3. What kind of medical care is required during recovery?
  4. What sort of help will I need at home during my recovery?
  5. What will my physical limitations be during recovery?
  6. Are any special medications or diet required during the recovery period?
  7. What should I watch for during healing that may indicate a problem?
  8. How much pain/swelling/bruising is to be expected?
  9. How will my pain be managed after I go home?
  10. How many follow-ups are necessary and when will they take place?
  11. Will I need to wear a compression garment or other special clothing?
  12. When can I start exercising again?
  13. When will I be able to take a bath or go swimming?
  14. When will I be able to drive again?
  15. When will I be able to return to work and normal activities?

Questions About Cost and Payment

  1. Do you charge a consultation fee?
  2. Does the cost depend on where my surgery is performed?
  3. Will it save me money to have multiple surgeries done at once?
  4. Will insurance cover the cost?
  5. What options are available for payment?

Schedule a Visit

If you have any other questions or concerns about any type of cosmetic procedure, then book a consultation with Dr. Binder so that he can help you find the answers you’re looking for.

surgical-non-surgical-beautiful-girl

Surgical vs. Non-Surgical: Which Option is Right for You?

Procedure Overviews

With so many cosmetic procedures available, it can be hard to determine which type or types are right for you, especially when making the stressful decision of whether or not to undergo surgery. Fortunately, there are ways to make this process easier. First, prospective patients can find resources like this one to educate them and give the guidance. Second, during their consultation, patients can discuss their options with their plastic surgeon, who will have the knowledge and experience to help patients make the right decision.

Surgical Cosmetic Procedures

Surgical cosmetic procedures, or cosmetic surgeries, are what typically come to mind when we think of procedures that are performed by plastic surgeons. Cosmetic surgeries are invasive procedures that typically require general anesthesia, but deliver dramatic results that can last for several years up to a lifetime, depending on the patient and the procedure.

The most common cosmetic surgery procedures in 2015 were breast augmentation with 279,143 procedures performed that year, liposuction with 222,051 procedures performed, nose reshaping (rhinoplasty) with 217,979 procedures performed, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) with 203,934 procedures performed, and finally tummy tucks (abdominoplasty) with 127,967 procedures performed. In total, 1,706,106 cosmetic surgery procedures were performed in 2015.

Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedures

Non-surgical cosmetic procedures, or minimally-invasive cosmetic procedures, are alternatives to surgery. These procedures typically require no anesthesia, or use local anesthesia, and give more subtle results. Results of non-surgical cosmetic procedures are typically temporary and last from a few weeks to a year or more, depending on the patient and procedure.

The most common non-surgical cosmetic procedures in 2015 were Botox with 6,757,198 procedures performed over the course of the year, soft tissue fillers with 2,440,724 procedures performed, chemical peels with 1,310,252 procedures performed, laser hair removal with 1,116,708 procedures performed, and microdermabrasion with 800,340 performed in 2015. As you can see, non-surgical cosmetic procedures are far more popular than surgical cosmetic procedures. In total, 14,202,224 non-surgical cosmetic procedures were performed in 2015, more than eight times the number of surgical procedures.

So Which is Best?

Neither surgical cosmetic procedures nor non-surgical cosmetic procedures are objectively better than the alternative in every case for every patient. Instead, it depends on the patient’s goals, financial situation, and health history. Discussing these subjects with their plastic surgeon can help patients figure out whether a surgical or non-surgical cosmetic procedure is right for them.

There are, however, some differences that can help patients determine which option may be best before they even meet their surgeon.

Because non-surgical options give subtle and temporary results, this means they may be better for patients who aren’t seeking significant change or just want a bit of extra oomph for a special occasion. However, patients who want more dramatic or permanent results may be better served by surgery. Remember, surgery can also provide subtle changes; but non-surgical treatments are limited in the amount of dramatic change they can provide.

Non-surgical options are usually cheaper per treatment than surgical alternatives, making them attractive to patients on a more limited budget. On the other hand, because non-surgical options typically require retreatment to maintain results, surgery may end up being cheaper over time.

Choosing the Right Plastic Surgeon for Your Cosmetic Procedure

Regardless of whether you choose a surgical or non-surgical cosmetic procedure, it’s important to have an experienced cosmetic surgeon like Dr. Binder perform your procedure. Dr. Binder is conveniently located in Los Angeles, is double board certified and has a passion for helping patients achieve their goals.

If you’re interested in a facial cosmetic procedure, whether surgical or not, don’t wait to act. Dr. Binder is always accepting patients for consultations, so contact his office today to schedule your appointment and find out which cosmetic procedure or procedures are right for you.

Mole Removal

Health Basics, Procedure Overviews

mole-removal-girl

Mole Removal: The Options Available to You

Facial moles were popularized by Marilyn Monroe in the 1950s, and again by celebrities like Madonna in the 1980s and Cindy Crawford in the 1990s. Even as recently as 2016, Hollywood darling Jennifer Lawrence has received praise for her moles and criticized magazines for editing her moles out in published photos.

However, some of us don’t feel like glamorous celebrities with our moles, and some moles can even pose threats to our health. In fact, even while they get praise for their moles, Cindy Crawford and Madonna, as well as other celebrities like Sarah Jessica Parker, chose to have their moles removed.

Why Have Moles Removed?

Moles are usually benign, but they can definitely be unsightly, with most moles being removed for cosmetic reasons. Another common reason for mole removal is moles that become constantly irritated from rubbing jewelry, glasses, or clothing.

The most serious reason for removal, however, is concerns about skin cancer. Moles can develop melanoma, while keratoses (rough, mole-like growths that develop from sun exposure) can develop into squamous cell carcinomas. If there is any question about whether or not a mole is cancerous, a biopsy can be performed to find out whether the mole is cancerous or benign. Signs that a mole is cancerous include:

  • Asymmetry between the sides of the mole
  • Ragged, irregular, or blurred edges
  • Inconsistent or uneven coloring, or shades of tan, brown, black, blue, white, or red in the mole
  • Diameter larger than a pencil eraser
  • Changing size, shape, or color

Mole Removal Procedures

There are several ways that moles can be removed, including laser treatment, cryosurgery, surgical removal, and hydrocortisone cream.

Laser removal and cryosurgery are less invasive and less likely to produce visible scarring than traditional surgery methods. Laser surgery uses lasers to remove the mole. Cryosurgery involves the injection of liquid nitrogen into or underneath the mole, freezing it and causing it to break up. Both laser removal and cryosurgery only treat moles on the surface level and are best for small, superficial moles. For cancer that is deeper than the superficial levels of the skin, more traditional surgery methods are required.

The most common way of removing moles is through excision surgery. Moles are usually removed through a simple “shave excision” or “surgical shave,” which removes the mole at the level of the skin before cauterizing the wound for quick healing. This procedure may leave a small, barely visible amount of scarring, but usually leaves no scarring at all. However, like laser removal and cryosurgery, shave excisions only remove moles from the surface level and is best for small, superficial moles.

For cancer that is deeper in the skin or is likely to spread, “excision surgery” is performed. This surgical technique removes the mole, as well as the surrounding and underlying healthy tissue to ensure a more complete removal. Whether removed through shave excision or excision surgery, the removed mole or keratosis is then sent to a pathologist for testing for cancer.

Choosing the Right Plastic Surgeon for Your Mole Removal Procedure

A surgeon not trained in cosmetic and plastic surgery can leave scarring. For this reason, many surgical dermatologists and oncologists refuse to do mole removals on the face, and refer patients to plastic surgeons instead. For optimal results, a plastic surgeon that specializes in facial and reconstructive surgeries is the best option for the patient.

Dr. William J. Binder has extensive experience performing facial reconstructive surgery, as evidenced by his many published academic articles and 10 medical patents. His skill in facial reconstructive surgery is further illustrated by his certification by both the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery.

If you want your facial mole removal done correctly, contact the office of Dr. Binder today to schedule your consultation.

Facial Implants: An Overview

Procedure Overviews

facial-implants

Facial Implants: Are They Right For You?

Facial implants are used to bring symmetry and balance to the face, and are typically used in the cheeks, chin, and jaw. Facial implants serve a cosmetic purpose, but can also be used for reconstruction after severe trauma to the face. Cheek implants increase the prominence and width of the cheeks, giving them a more pronounced appearance. Chin implants increase the size and projection of the chin, and can also modify the overall shape. Jaw implants are similar to chin implants, but broaden the whole of the lower third of the face. All three of these implants can give the face balance and symmetry by making facial features more proportional and shapely.

Facial implant surgery is one of the most common types of cosmetic procedures. 12,668 cheek augmentation surgeries, also called malar augmentation surgery, were performed in 2015, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgery’s 2015 Plastic Surgery Statistics Report, and 17,451 chin and jaw augmentation surgeries, or mentoplasties, were performed that same year. Facial implants, like most plastic surgeries, are more common among women than men; but chin and jaw implants are some of the most common plastic surgery procedures requested by men.

Facial Implant Candidates

If you are unhappy with the proportions, symmetry, or lack of contour of your face, facial implants may be right for you. Facial implant surgery candidates need to have reached full physical maturity of the head and skull, meaning at least in their late adolescence. Ideally, patients should not smoke and have a positive outlook about their surgery.

Like with all cosmetic procedures, a good candidate for facial implant surgery is in generally good health. Remember, facial implants can’t make you look like another person, but they can enhance the features you already have, as well as give your features greater balance.

A plastic surgeon can help determine if you are healthy and physically mature enough for facial implant surgery, as well as the reasonableness of your expectations. Your surgeon may also find that an alternative procedure, such as fillers or lifts, may better suit your goals and health needs.

Additional and Alternative Procedures

Facial implants may not be right for you, but that does not mean that you are stuck with features you do not like. Injectable dermal fillers, lifts, fat grafting, bone repositioning, bone grafting and dermal grafting can all be alternatives for patients who want more contouring, but are not good candidates for facial implants.

That said, all of these procedures can also be performed in conjunction with facial implant surgery to achieve more thorough or precise results, especially for reconstruction patients. Like facial implants, most of these procedures require invasive surgery, but give dramatic results. Injectable dermal fillers, however, are not invasive, and can be used to provide more subtle changes. Results are not permanent, though, and patients will need to revisit their surgeon every 3 to 12 months, depending on the filler used and patient preferences, for retreatment if they wish to maintain their results.

Choosing the Right Facial Implant Surgeon

Cosmetic surgeries, such as facial implant surgery, can be scary, just like any surgery. A good plastic surgeon, however, can help educate the patient on how to prepare and what to expect, giving them comfort through knowledge. Dr. William J. Binder has a passion for educating patients in order to make them feel happier and more comfortable as he gives them the best possible plastic surgery results.

Contact Dr. Binder’s office today to schedule your consultation and start your journey to a look you love.

Skin Resurfacing Options

Lifestyle, Procedure Overviews

skin-resurfacing

Available Skin Resurfacing Procedures

Do you often look at yourself in the mirror and see different areas of your face that you would like to see improved? Do you have wrinkles, sun damage, brown spots, or acne scars? Then skin resurfacing might be the best way to get your skin looking healthy and young again.

Before you book an appointment with your doctor, here are some things that you need to know about the different types of skin resurfacing procedures available on the market.

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels can improve the skin’s appearance by applying a chemical solution, which makes the skin blister and eventually peel off. The new skin underneath tends to be smoother and less wrinkled than the old skin. The solution in certain types of chemical peels may be neutralized after an appropriate amount of time has elapsed.

The different types of chemical peels vary depending on their ingredients and strength. Types of chemical peels include:

  • Glycolic (AHA) peel—the most superficial peels are those using alpha hydroxyl acids (AHAs) such as glycolic acid. Usually only one treatment will give your skin a fresher, healthier appearance and radiant glow. Repeated treatments can help further improve your skin’s texture.
  • TCA peel—trichloracetic acid (TCA) peel is often preferred for spot peeling of limited areas (such as around the mouth or eyes) because it has a lesser bleaching effect than solutions containing phenol. TCA can also be more effective for treating darker-skinned patients.
  • Phenol peel—this type of peel has a significant bleaching effect, although it can correct pigmentary problems (blotchiness or age-related brown spots) and may also be used in the treatment of precancerous skin conditions. Unlike TCA peels, phenol cannot be used on your neck or other particular parts of your body.

Chemical peels can help:

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

Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion is a technique that uses a wire brush or diamond wheel with rough edges to remove the upper layer of skin. By doing so, the procedure allows new skin to grow and replace the old damaged skin.

Like the deeper chemical peels, dermabrasion is very effective in reducing the appearance of vertical wrinkles around the mouth. It can also be used on small areas of the skin and on patients with darker skin tones. The treated area will usually blend with the surrounding skin so that there is little-to-no difference in the skin’s pigmentation.

Dermabrasion can help:

  • Remove and improve the appearance of acne scars
  • Scars (if they aren’t too deep)
  • With color changes in the skin
  • With fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth

Another form of dermabrasion is microdermabrasion. Microdermabrasion uses tiny exfoliating crystals that are sprayed onto the skin to make subtle changes, causing no skin pigment changes or scarring. It also works on all skin types and colors, although it is not effective for deeper skin problems such as scars, stretch marks, wrinkles, or deep acne scars.

Laser Resurfacing

Laser resurfacing, also known as lasabrasion, laser peel, or laser vaporization, directs short, concentrated pulsating beams of light at irregular skin to remove it layer by layer. Two types of laser resurfacing are most commonly used: carbon dioxide (CO2) and IPL.

  • Carbon dioxide resurfacing—uses very short pulsed light energy (ultrapulse) or a continuous light beam that is delivered in a scanning pattern to remove thin layers of skin with minimal heat damage. This is the most commonly used form of laser skin resurfacing.
  • IPL—the IPL (intense pulse light) laser is a more superficial laser that’s typically used on younger patients, patients with photo damaged skin, rosacea, spider veins and lighter skin pigmentary changes. These treatments usually require multiple sessions until improvements are achieved.

Laser resurfacing is effective in treating:

  • Wrinkles
  • Blotchiness or age spots
  • Scars from acne or other causes

Schedule an Appointment

If you believe your skin is in need of some rejuvenation, the above resurfacing options may be the perfect solution for you. To find out more, book a consultation with Dr. Binder so that he can help you decide on the right procedure for your needs.

Brow Lifts and Your Options

Procedure Overviews

brow-lift-woman

What You Need to Know about Brow Lifts

Are you tired of having deep lines and wrinkles on your forehead that just seem to get worse as you age? Do you miss the way your skin used to be smooth and youthful looking?

Then a brow lift might be the right cosmetic procedure for you. But before you book an appointment with your doctor, here are some things to keep in mind about brow lifts.

What is a Brow Lift?

A brow lift, also known as a forehead lift or browplasty, tightens the soft tissues of the forehead to restore a more youthful look to your forehead skin, upper eyelids, and eyebrows. As you get older, it’s common for the brow to assume a flat or horizontal position. A brow lift can help reverse the effect of gravity by rejuvenating the upper third of your face.

Having a brow lift can help:

  • Reduce wrinkles that develop across the forehead
  • Improve frown lines (vertical creases between the eyes)
  • Raise sagging brows that are hooding the upper eyes
  • Place the eyebrows in an alert and youthful position

Getting Your Brow Lift

There are three types of brow lift surgery: open brow lift, endoscopic brow lift, and limited incision technique. The type of brow lift that you get will be based on your facial features and aesthetic preferences.

Open brow lift—a long incision will be made across the forehead at the hairline or in one of the forehead creases, so that the skin can be lifted away from the underlying tissues. Your doctor will then loosen the muscles and remove the fat. Excess skin will be trimmed away before the remaining skin is pulled down and stitched to the brow in its new position. This type of brow lift is also known as classic, coronal, or trichophytic.

Endoscopic brow lift—an endoscope (a long, thin tube with a light on the end attached to a video camera) will be inserted through several tiny incisions in the scalp. This will allow your doctor to see and work on the various internal structures of the forehead. This technique requires minimal incisions, but it may not work equally for all patients.

Limited incision technique—this procedure is a combination of both the open brow lift and the endoscopic brow lift. It is a non-endoscopic procedure with limited incisions. This type of brow lift uses a small portion of the open brow lift technique to elevate the outside part of the eyebrows. The resulting scars are hidden in the temporal hairline. This procedure doesn’t address the center of the brow, but can reduce wrinkles at the corner of the eyes (crow’s feet).

Dr. Binder regularly relies on this form of minimal incision temporal lift given its unique advantages, which you can read more about here.

Recovery and Aftercare

In the majority of cases, the postoperative course after a forehead lift is relatively short, with minimal bruising or swelling. All sutures and clips are typically removed within 10 days. By styling the hair to hide the incision lines, most patients are able to resume a normal non-exceptional routine within two to three days after surgery.

Pick the Best Doctor

One of the most important things that you can do before receiving brow lift surgery is to pick the right doctor for the job. To learn more about your options and find out if you’re a good candidate for this type of surgery, book a consultation with Dr. Binder. With years of experience in his field, he has the knowledge and know-how to help you achieve the results you desire.

Botox and the Reduction of Migraines

Health Basics, Lifestyle, Motivation, Procedure Overviews

botox-treatment-migraines

How Botox can Help Alleviate Chronic Migraines

Do you have terrible migraines that don’t seem to respond to over-the-counter prescriptions? Do you feel like you’ve tried everything, but the pain just won’t go away?

Then it may be time for you to consider getting Botox injections. But before you schedule an appointment with your doctor, here are some things that you need to know about how Botox injections can help get rid of your chronic migraines.

What Causes Migraines?

While it isn’t fully understood what causes migraines, genetics and environmental factors seem to play a role, as migraines often begin in childhood, adolescence, or early adulthood. Some doctors believe that migraines are caused by the changes in the brainstem and its interactions with the trigeminal nerve (a major pain pathway). Imbalances in brain chemicals (like serotonin) may also be involved.

A number of different things can trigger migraines, such as:

  • Hormonal changes in women
  • Certain foods (aged cheeses, salty foods, and processed foods)
  • Food additives (aspartame and MSG)
  • Drinks (alcohol and caffeinated beverages)
  • Stress
  • Sensory stimuli
  • Changes in sleep patterns
  • Physical factors
  • Changes in environment
  • Medications

Migraine Symptoms

Migraines can progress through four stages: prodrome, aura, attack, and post-drome.

Prodrome starts one to two days before a migraine and can present the following symptoms:

  • Constipation
  • Mood changes
  • Food cravings
  • Neck stiffness
  • Increased thirst and urination
  • Frequent yawning

Aura can occur before or during a migraine. However, most people don’t experience migraines with aura (symptoms of the nervous system). Some examples of migraine aura include:

  • Visual phenomena (seeing various shapes, bright spots, or flashes of light)
  • Vision loss
  • Pins and needles in an arm or leg
  • Weakness or numbness in the face or one side of the body
  • Difficulty speaking
  • Hearing noises or music
  • Uncontrollable jerking or other movements

Attack is the duration of the actual migraine, which can last from four to 72 hours, if untreated. During an attack, you may experience the following symptoms:

  • Pain on one or both sides of your head
  • Throbbing or pulsing pain
  • Sensitivity to light, sounds, smells, and touch
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Blurred vision
  • Light-headedness and, possibly, fainting

Post-drome is the final phase that occurs after the migraine attack. For roughly 24 hours after a migraine, you might feel:

  • Confused
  • Moody
  • Dizzy
  • Weak
  • Sensitive to light and sound

How Botox Treats Migraines

Botox injections block the release of neuro-transmitters (chemicals that carry nerve impulses) that are linked to causing pain. In order to prevent headaches, Botox blocks the nerve signals from reaching the central nervous system, and from becoming highly sensitive. Botox treatments are for chronic migraines, which are defined as headaches that occur at least 15 days per month (eight or more of which must be migraines).

Botox is given through injection sites along seven specific head and neck muscle areas. The number of injection sites range between 31 – 39, with half the injection sites on the left side of the head and the other half on the right side. If there is a predominant pain location, further injections may be given. The recommended schedule for receiving Botox injections is every 12 weeks.

Possible Side Effects

In most cases, people experience little to no side effects from Botox injections. Some of the most common side effects can include:

  • Neck pain
  • Stiffness at the injection site
  • Headache
  • Temporary muscle weakness (neck and upper shoulders)

Rare side effects can occur when the Botox toxin spreads beyond the injection site. Some of these side effects include:

  • Muscle weakness
  • Vision changes
  • Drooping eyelids
  • Loss of strength
  • Allergic reaction

Consult with Dr. Binder

Before you decide that Botox injections could be the answer for treating your migraines, you should consult with an experienced migraine professional, such as Dr. Binder, today. As one of the world’s most experienced physicians in Botox use, and the discoverer of its effects on relieving migraines, Dr. Binder is the perfect consultant to help you make the right choice about whether or not Botox injections are the right fit for you.

Revision Rhinoplasty

rhinoplasty, Procedure Overviews

revision-rhinoplasty

The Benefits of Revision Rhinoplasty

Revision, or secondary, rhinoplasty is by no means an uncommon procedure. Rhinoplasty as a whole was the second most common plastic surgery procedure in 2015, after breast augmentation, with 217,979 rhinoplasty surgeries conducted that year, and 10 to 15 percent of rhinoplasty patients undergoing a secondary rhinoplasty procedure.

Just like people undergo primary rhinoplasty (their first rhinoplasty procedure) in order to obtain a variety of benefits, there’s also a variety of benefits that patients may hope to gain from revision rhinoplasty procedures. Here are five of the most common benefits of revision rhinoplasty.

1. Improving Results after Primary Rhinoplasty

Sometimes, patients are unhappy with the aesthetic results of their rhinoplasty or become unhappy with their results later on. Sometimes this is because the surgeon who conducted their first procedure did so improperly, placing the implants incorrectly; improperly revising the nostrils, leaving them too large, too small, or asymmetrical; or otherwise not giving the patient the look they wanted.

On the other hand, sometimes even initially gorgeous results can change or look unbecoming as the face changes with age. This is of course no one’s fault, but still needs revision to ensure that the patient remains happy with their face.

2. Dramatic Changes

Sometimes patients have such severe trauma or a desire for such dramatically different results that one procedure won’t allow them to get the look they want. In these cases, additional rhinoplasty procedures may be needed later, after the patient has healed from their first procedure, to complete the patient’s goals for the look of their nose.

3. Improved Breathing

Many patients seek their initial rhinoplasty procedure because of breathing issues, usually caused by nasal obstruction. Often patients seek a revision rhinoplasty for the same reason. In rare cases, an unsatisfactory surgeon can cause breathing problems through an improperly conducted rhinoplasty, but more often breathing issues are either not completely resolved by the primary rhinoplasty or are a result of aging or illness that occurred after the first procedure.

4. Improved Sleep

Just like rhinoplasty can improve breathing, it can also improve sleep, and for many of the same reasons. Poor or obstructed breathing during sleep causes problems like snoring and sleep apnea, which can disrupt sleep. Often times, patients don’t even realize that issues with their sleep are the result of breathing difficulties, but their partners may notice the inconsistent, noisy, or strange sounding breathing. Once again, these problems can be caused by an improperly done rhinoplasty, illness or aging, or were not resolved by the first procedure.

5. Repairing Damaged Results

Finally, revision rhinoplasty may be needed if the results of the first rhinoplasty are damaged because of a broken nose or other facial trauma. This trauma is often the result of a blow to the face, but may also be caused by heat or chemical burns. Just like with a primary rhinoplasty used to repair trauma, a secondary rhinoplasty intended to do the same thing is usually covered by insurance.

Ensuring Your Revision Rhinoplasty is Done Right

Choosing the right doctor for your revision rhinoplasty procedure is of the utmost importance. If you’re choosing a revision rhinoplasty because of unsatisfactory results from your first surgery, you have already experienced just how true this is. Dr. William J. Binder is an experienced and double board certified facial plastic surgeon who has been passionately serving and satisfying plastic surgery patients in the Los Angeles area for decades while also conducting research and giving informational lectures to plastic surgeons around the world.

Dr. Binder specializes in reconstructive surgeries. If you want your revision rhinoplasty performed by one of the world’s leading facial plastic surgeons, don’t wait to act. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation.

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