woman-lip-augmentation-results

Best Lip Augmentation Options in Beverly Hills

Procedure Overviews

Do you ever wish that your lips were full and sensual? Then lip augmentation surgery might be the best fit for you. However, with so many options available in the Beverly Hills area, it might make it hard for you to decide which type of lip augmentation is right for you.

Here’s a look at some of the best lip augmentation options in Beverly Hills and what they can do for you.

Lip Fillers

There are a wide variety of injectable lip fillers that can be used to give your lips a plump, voluptuous look that fits your individual needs. Lip augmentation with injectable fillers can provide a pleasing result within as little as 30 minutes. However, most lip fillers are only temporary as the body will eventually breakdown and absorb the filler. The length of time the results last varies from person to person, but the average time is between four to six months.

There are two different categories of lip fillers: collagen-based and hyaluronic acid-based, the latter of which is used here at Dr. Binder’s office.

Collagen-based lip fillers come in two forms: bovine-derived collagen and human-derived collagen.

  • Bovine-derived collagen—is extracted from the tissue of cows that have been raised in constantly monitored, disease-free closed herds. An allergy test is required before receiving this type of collagen because there is a three percent chance of an allergic reaction. Some bovine-derived collagen fillers include: Zyderm, Zyplast, and Artecoll.
  • Human-derived collagen—is harvested from cadavers or excess skin removed during surgery. The biocompatibility of human-derived collagen eliminates the need for a pre-treatment allergy test and makes these lip fillers an excellent option for those who are allergic to bovine-derived collagen. Some human-derived collagen fillers include: Dermalogen, Cymetra, Autologen, Fascian, Cosmoderm, and Cosmoplast.

Hyaluronic acid-based lip fillers—hyaluronic acid is a clear, biodegradable substance that occurs naturally in the body’s joints and skin. It binds with water molecules once injected into the lips, allowing hyaluronic acid-based fillers to moisturize as well as plump the lips and provide longer-lasting results than collagen fillers. Some hyaluronic acid-based lip fillers include: Restylane, Juvederm, Perlane, and Radiesse. The former two are used here.

Fat Transfer

If you’re a little reluctant about injecting foreign materials into your body, then you might want to consider lip augmentation with fat transfer. Lip augmentation with fat transfer utilizes your own body’s tissue, giving you soft, natural-looking results.

During the procedure, fat will be removed from a location on your body (usually the abdomen or thighs) with liposuction. This will not produce a noticeable effect in the removal site. The fat is then injected into the lips with a syringe and blunt needle. The injections only leave tiny prick marks. This procedure has a short recovery time of only two to three days.

Lip Lift

A lip lift is a surgical procedure that elevates the lips to create a more youthful and relaxed smile. There are two types of lip lifts: upper lip lift and corner lip lift.

Upper lip lift—shortens the skin distance between the upper lip and the base of the nose. This increases the amount of “pink lip” that is seen, exposes the teeth more, and gives you fuller, more youthful looking lips. This is the most common type of lip lift.

Corner lip lift—involves only the edges of your mouth and is designed for the patient who feels as though they have a permanent frown.

If you are worried about both fullness and excess distance between the nose and the upper lift as well as having a permanent frown, these two procedures can be performed together. Recovery time from having a lip lift is usually between seven to 10 days.

Lip Implants

Lip implants provide a permanent lip augmentation with more refined results than dermal lip fillers. This procedure is fairly simple, taking only about an hour. There are three popular types of lip implants in Beverly Hills: Gore-Tex, SoftForm, and Alloderm.

Gore-Tex—lip implants made from a medical-grade version of ePTFE, the same material used in tents and raincoats. Once implanted, Gore-Tex lip implants might feel slightly rigid, but most patients quickly become accustomed to them. Gore-Tex implants have micro-pores through which the natural lip tissue grows, making the implants part of the lip structure.

SoftForm—lip implants that are also made from ePTFE, but have a tubular shape. This allows for tissue ingrowth that provides better anchoring and lessens the chance of migration.

Alloderm—is a human-tissue lip implant made from donated skin. This product is soft and pliable, and will not invoke any type of allergic reaction.

Lip Augmentation with Dr. Binder

Before deciding which type to lip augmentation will work best for you, you should meet with a qualified Beverly Hills plastic surgeon. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Binder today, so that he can help you make the best choice when it comes to your lip augmentation needs.

unhappy-woman-revision-surgery

Revision Surgery: Why Some Go Under the Knife Again

Health Basics, Procedure Overviews

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

Displeasure with Aesthetic Results

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

Excessive Scarring

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

Change in Results

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

Functional Problems

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

Choosing the Right Plastic Surgeon for Your Revision Surgery

Choosing the right plastic surgeon for revision plastic surgery is just as important as choosing the right plastic surgeon for your initial cosmetic surgery procedure, and is imperative in ensuring satisfaction with the results of the revision surgery.

The reasons patients seek revision surgery often mean that the surgeon who conducts the procedure needs to be highly skilled and very experienced. Ideally, patients are able to seek out a surgeon who specializes in revision and reconstruction procedures. Specialized plastic surgeons are able to give patients far better results than their more generalized peers because specialists have unique knowledge and experiences about revision procedures.

Dr. William J. Binder

One revision and reconstruction plastic surgery specialist, who also happens to be one of the world’s leading plastic surgeons, happens to be located in Los Angeles. Dr. Binder has a passion for educating patients and helping them meet their aesthetic goals, whether through an initial procedure or as part of a revision surgery.

Dr. Binder is well-known and respected among members of his field. He is board certified by not only the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, but also the American Board of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, demonstrating his impressive knowledge of the medical aspects of cosmetic surgery – not just the aesthetic aspects.

If you are unhappy with the results of your plastic surgery, regardless of the reason, there is no reason to live with these displeasing results, and there is no reason to settle for anyone but the best possible surgeon. Dr. Binder’s office is accepting consultations, so contact us today so that you can schedule your appointment and get the look you have been hoping for.

cosmetic-facial-treatment

The Top 7 Cosmetic Facial Treatments

Lifestyle, Procedure Overviews

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

1. Botox

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

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

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

2. Chemical Peel

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

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

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

3. Laser Skin Resurfacing

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

4. Dermabrasion

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

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

5. Microdermabrasion

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

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

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

6. Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers are a naturally-derived or synthetic material that is directly injected into the skin in order to plump the area to the point where the wrinkle, depression, or fold is gone.

There are two primary groups of dermal fillers: synthetic and natural.

Synthetic fillers—are considered semi-permanent because they don’t really dissipate.

Naturally-derived fillers—are immediate but will only last for three to 18 months because the filler eventually breaks down, taking the results with it. Once the filler starts to dissipate, you’ll need to go back and get more filler injections to maintain results.

7. Laser Hair Removal

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

  • Precision
  • Speed
  • Predictability

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

Book a Facial Treatment Consultation

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

woman-custom-implants

Why Custom Implants Could be Right for You

Procedure Overviews

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

About Custom Facial Implants

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

Custom vs. Standard Facial Implants

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

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

Good Candidates for Custom Implants

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

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

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

Alternatives to Custom Implants

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

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

Choosing the Right Plastic Surgeon

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

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

lady-lip-injections

Lip Injection Options Available to You

Procedure Overviews

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

Human-Derived Collagen Fillers

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

Human-derived collagen fillers include:

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

Bovine-Derived Collagen Fillers

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

Injectable lip fillers that are bovine-derived include:

  • Zyderm
  • Zyplast
  • Artecoll

Hyaluronic Acid-Based Lip Fillers

Hyaluronic acid is a clear, biodegradable substance that naturally grows in the body’s joints and skin. Hyaluronic acid binds well with water molecules, which allows hyaluronic acid-based fillers to not only plump the lips and provide a longer-lasting result than collagen fillers, but also to moisturize them.

Hyaluronic acid products can come in different thicknesses or viscosities, making them a versatile choice for treating different areas of the face, including lips. A thinner product would be well suited for fixing fine lines and wrinkles, or for subtly enhancing the lips. A thicker product would be better suited to addressing volume loss and very deep wrinkles. Since hyaluronic acid is naturally found in the human body, there is no need for a pre-treatment allergy test, and the effects can last between six to 12 months.

Some of the hyaluronic acid-based lip fillers on the market are:

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

Permanent Fillers

Permanent fillers or non-resorbable fillers are not as commonly used as temporary fillers (such as collagen-based fillers and hyaluronic acid-based fillers) because of their longer-lasting effect. It is often recommended that you first try out a temporary filler so that you can make sure you are happy with the results.

There is no going back once you’ve had a permanent filler injection. If you do decide to go with a permanent filler, it is important that you make sure that your doctor is very experienced with them, because most complications occur as a result of the product not being injected correctly.

The main permanent fillers on the market are:

  • Artecoll
  • Artefill
  • Aquamid

Fat Transfer Injections

Fat transfer injections are a great alternative for patients who don’t want to put foreign substances in their body. While most other lip fillers are derived from an animal or human donor tissue, fat transfer utilizes your own body’s tissue, giving you soft, natural-looking results. Since fat transfers use your own natural tissue, rejection or allergic reactions rarely occur.

One of the downsides to fat transfer injections is that some of the fat cells die during transfer. An experienced doctor will try to prevent this from happening by injecting the fat in intervals, rather than all at once.

Some of the possible side effects that can affect the area from which the fat was taken or the injection site include:

  • Infection
  • Bleeding
  • Swelling
  • Minor discomfort

Book an Appointment

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

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.

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