9454 Wilshire Boulevard (Ground floor at S. Beverly Drive)
Beverly Hills, California 90212
(310) 888-8087

September
2012
21

FDA’s final rule regulates over-the-counter sun protection products, labels and drug claims

The FDA’s final rule regulates over-the-counter sun protection products, labels and drug claims. Under the new rule, all labels claiming broad spectrum protection:

-          Must have an SPF of 15 or higher and pass specific FDA testing

-          Are allowed to state that they can reduce the risk of skin cancer and early signs of aging with an SPF of 15 or higher

-          May only claim to help prevent sunburn for SPFs lower than 15

-          Cannot exceed an SPF of 50+, as no data has demonstrated that SPFs higher than 50 are more effective

-          With proper testing can claim “water-resistant” and must state effectiveness – either 40 or 80 minutes while swimming or sweating

-          Can no longer be identified as “sunblocks”

-          Can no longer claim to protect immediately upon application, nor protect for more than two hours without reapplying

-          Must have a clear and accurate “Drug Facts” listing on the container

-          Must clearly state “broad spectrum” on the product itself

Now, you are better informed!

 

September
2012
14

Choosing a Plastic Surgeon: Things to Remember

Some of the factors often overlooked when choosing a plastic surgeon are, in fact, essential elements to take into consideration. The following tips are intended to help you make an educated decision:

1) Do Your Research

Review doctors online, before and after photos, patient testimonials, and credentials, to narrow down the top 3 doctors (or less). In reviewing photos, it is best when sets of photos have descriptions of what procedure was performed, when the post-op photo was taken, and any other details on the patient or the procedure. Also make sure that not only are there plenty of photos, but each set of photos are shot at the same angle, with the same lighting, and same patient positioning. In reviewing credentials, make sure to see that the surgeon is indeed a plastic surgeon (not cosmetic surgeon). Plastic surgeons have completed a fellowship in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, taking a minimum of two years to do so.

2) Procedure Consistency

When comparing your options, make sure you are evaluating for the same procedures; surgeons may recommend different surgeries for the same problem. Will the scars be the same for the breast lift? Is the liposuction covering the exact same areas? If there are differences, what will be the difference in results?

3) Consider Additional Costs

Same goes for pricing- make sure you are comparing like for like. If it sounds too good to be true when compared to other prices, it probably is, since the lowest price may not be the best deal. Does surgery include operating room and anesthesia costs? Will you have to pay for garments, labs, and medications? If so, what will you be getting? How much will they cost?

4) Consult With Previous Patients

Ask to speak with other patients. Make sure they have gone through the same procedures. Do they have any tips for you? Would they have done anything differently? Were they forgotten after surgery was done?

5) Plan Aftercare and Recovery

As plastic surgery is considered major surgery, it is important to make sure that you follow your surgeon’s strict guidelines for proper post-surgical recovery. For instance, for older patients or those with particular health history, a plastic surgeon may recommend a fully-equipped aftercare facility with 24 hour nursing care. Other common instructions include not boarding an airplane for long flights, or avoiding physical activities.

6) Consider The Surgical Experience

Compare the experience- will you be charged for post-op visits? How about a month or two after surgery? Is the doctor the one who sees you, or someone else (who you may not have even met before your surgery)? How accessible is your surgeon, especially after surgery? Will you be calling your doctor, a staff member, or an answering service after hours?

7) Feel Comfortable

Make sure you are comfortable with the doctor, the staff, and anyone else you may come in contact with throughout your experience. They will all contribute to your experience- and you want to have a good one.

8) Trust Your Gut

After you have evaluated all these things, go with your gut instincts. It has to feel right for you to move forward!

October
2011
27

Holiday Treatments at the SPA @ Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery!

Posted in Uncategorized

Caramel Shea Butter Massage Melts
Pure shea, cocoa and mango butters are combined into a solid bar that when melted turns into a rich, creamy massage oil that leaves skin feeling deeply nourished with a softness lasting for days. (Complimentary hand massage with a paid facial in December)

Dark Chocolate Softening Serum
This dark chocolate scented treatment serum nourishes winter-parched skin and seals in moisture. When applied, live fruit cells activate, providing maximum vitamin potency and a fresh, dewy feel. This decadent and divinely scented treatment is just what the doctor ordered! (Complimentary hand treatment with a paid facial in December)

Butter Brulee Whole Milk Soak
The perfect start to any treatment, the rich buttery fats and chicory root in this whole milk soak bring instant calm to dry, chapped or irritated skin. (Complimentary hand treatment with a paid facial in December)

October
2011
20

Silicone Implants vs. Fat Transfer for Buttock Augmentation

Posted in Uncategorized

The Brazilian Butt Lift has become much more popular than buttock implants for shaping the lower half of the body. It is a procedure where fat is harvested from available areas and transferred into the buttocks for a more prominent, perky look. Harvesting fat from surrounding areas, such as the hips, flanks, abdomen, low back, and thighs, helps to further shape and accentuate the butt for a more sensual body profile. Since you are using your own fat, it is not only safer, but looks more natural. Fat transfer to the buttocks is also more customized for each person.

If a person is too thin to harvest sufficient fat for augmentation, then silicone buttock implants would likely be a better choice. Since you are using implants, there is a higher risk of infection compared to fat grafting. Also, implants do not feel as natural as your own fat. If you would like to learn more, you are welcomed to schedule a complimentary consultation.

October
2011
18

Common Misconceptions about Breast Augmentation

Posted in Uncategorized

Does the body reject breast implants? Thorough research has not shown any evidence that breast implants, including silicone-filled ones, will cause autoimmune disease or rejection.

Does the risk of breast cancer increased after I have breast implants? In one of the largest studies on the long-term health effects of silicone breast implants, researchers from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) found no association between breast implants and the subsequent risk of breast cancer.

Will having breast implants make it impossible to have a Mammogram? Actually, breast implants, especially those placed under muscle, tend to get better results because of the use of the displacement technique rather than the traditional compression method.

Does the periareolar incision for a breast augmentation procedure change nipple sensitivity? No, a periareolar incision does not change sensation any more than any of the other incisions (Inframammary fold, axillary, or umbilical).

If I like the results my friend has with her breast implants, should I go to the same doctor to get the same results? Not necessarily. You have to remember that every body is different, with different anatomical considerations to deal with.

Will breast augmentation make it difficult to breastfeed? Studies have shown that there is no significant difference or decrease in the ability to breastfeed after having breast implants. Some patients have noticed it becomes easier for them after breast augmentation. They note the baby has an easier time latching onto the nipple. Also, breast implants, whether silicone or saline, pose no risk to your baby. Studies have shown the silicone cannot get into the breast milk.