Would you like to now if you are a candidate?

Sometimes how a woman “perceives” how she looks in the vaginal region can mean devastating effects on her life. It can threaten her self-esteem, reduce her sexual desire and excitement, ruin her love life, or cause vaginal discomfort.

Procedure
The basic procedure involves a few steps:
•    Local or IV sedation will be used, depending on the type and number of procedures undergone
•    A few tiny incisions are made near the area to be treated
•    A small, tube-like instrument called a cannula is inserted through the incisions in order to reach the fat deposits
•    The cannula then breaks up and vacuums away unwanted fat
•    The procedure is finished with the incisions usually being sutured and allowed to heal
As with any cosmetic surgery, you should prepare for liposuction carefully and allow yourself plenty of recovery time.
There are several different types of liposuction as well; each specialized for a particular type of desired result, and each exhibiting their own individual benefits and risks.
Here are some of the areas that respond well to the liposuction:
•    Thighs
•    Abdomen
•    Buttocks
•    Flanks
•    Hips
•    Upper Arms
•    Chin
•    Jowls
•    Neck

Most people wonder if liposuction will be right for them. If you are within a relatively normal weight range, have healthy, elastic skin, and have specific areas you want to target, then you may be a candidate for liposuction. The procedure is also appropriate for women who are considering breast reduction, and for men who suffer from gynecomastia, or male breast development.
Benefits
From improved health to a better appearance, liposuction isn't one of the most popular cosmetic surgery   procedures  for  nothing.  The   most important   benefit   comes   from   within, with the satisfaction and confidence of feeling good about your body whether it's in a bathing suit or a slimming outfit. That sort of spark within a person's demeanor can completely alter the way they interact with people and view themselves.
Risks
There are some risks involved with liposuction, just like any serious medical procedure. Although they are rare, you should talk to your doctor about them when weighing whether or not liposuction is the right option for you. Risks can include:
•    Infection
•    Blood clots
•    Friction burns
•    Damage to internal organs from the cannula
These risks can be minimized by choosing the proper surgeon and choosing the correct type for the results wanted.
Results
Although all of the results won't be fully evident until a few months post-operation, there will be dramatic results immediately afterwards. Up to ten pounds of fat can be removed during the surgery, which can provide a noticeable difference if the treated areas have been chosen wisely by both surgeon and patient. Swelling and bruising will delay the full desired results, until the body has recovered and gotten used to the new loss of fat, taking up to six months before a patient may feel fully back to normal.
Video:
Liposuction Surgery
If you are considering liposuction, learn more by watching our video of liposuction performed by the surgeon and specialist Dr. José Luis Salas:

Abdominoplasty tightens muscle and removes excess abdominal skin.

Obesity is a disease that affects 34 percent of adults age 20 and over in the United States, which amounts to more than 72 million people. About 33.3 percent of American men and about 35.3 percent of American women are obese.*

The number of overweight and obese Americans has increased almost continuously since 1960. About 66 percent of U.S. adults were estimated to be either overweight or obese by the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

The rate of obesity differs from state to state, which is probably a reflection of various lifestyle, age and economic factors. The rankings below are based on data from 2004 to 2006.

If you are obese, you may have inherited it, because it has a strong genetic component. Your environment is another contributor. Our culture fosters the tendency toward obesity: physical activity isn't often required in our society, and the foods that cost the least often contain the most calories and the fewest nutrients.

There are a number of dangerous consequences. Obesity increases your risk of developing high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, gallbladder disease, cataracts, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cancer of the breast, prostate, and colon. In fact, obesity increases your risk of death. And that’s not all. The lesser known effects of obesity may also include asthma, pregnancy complications, Infertility and even Parkinson's disease, a progressive neurological disorder.

About 3 percent of Americans, or 6.8 million adults, were morbidly obese in 2005, according to the non-profit think tank Rand Corporation. (In the Rand study, "morbidly obese" was defined as having a body mass index or BMI of 40 or higher.
You don't have to be skinny to reduce these risks. If maintained, even weight losses as small as 10 percent of body weight can improve your health.

Causes of Obesity
Knowing the various reasons that people become obese can help you understand your own struggle more clearly.
Whether you decide to have weight loss surgery or not, understanding your condition is vital for losing weight and keeping the weight off. Here are the most common causes of obesity:

• Genetics: Obesity can often be traced to genes, and the brain can induce appetite tendencies.
• Illness: Hypothyroidism, Cushing Syndrome and depression.
• Psychology: Mental illness and emotional problems.
• Lifestyle habits: Poor diet and low levels of daily activity.
You may be able to lose weight and improve your health by addressing the causes of your obesity.

But sometimes these attempts do not work without surgery. If you have been losing the battle with obesity, it may be time to consider bariatric surgery. To help you make a decision, talk to a qualified bariatric physician and surgeon.

Posted by: yourbariatricsurgeryguide

Preparing for Lap-Band Surgery
Lap-Band surgerycan change your life for the better, but it requires a commitment on your part. You must be ready to make important lifelong changes in how you eat and how you live to truly benefit from your Lap-Band surgery. These changes should start even before your surgery. Some Lap-Band surgeons may suggest that you start eating several small, balanced meals in the weeks before your surgery to get used to this new way of eating. It is also helpful to cut down on between-meal snacks, and try to sip eight cups (64 ounces) of low-calorie, non-carbonated fluids each day. If you are a smoker, quitting is a must as smoking can interfere with the healing process. It may also be helpful to start a moderate exercise program (if you are able).

Losing weight before your surgery is a win-win. If you lose 5 to 10 percent of your excess body weight before your surgery, you will likely have a shorter hospital stay and lose your remaining weight more quickly after your surgery, according to a study in the Archives of Surgery.

Your surgeon should go over any other specific preoperative instructions. Make sure you tell your surgeon what medications you take on a daily basis. Some drugs such as aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may increase your risk of bleeding, and should be discontinued in advance of your surgery. Herbal supplements count, too. Just because they are natural does not mean that they are safe to take before surgery. Don't leave anything out when you tell your surgeon about your daily medication regimen. Never stop taking any prescription medication without first getting clearance from your doctor. It is also important to ask what, if any, vitamin and mineral supplements you can take prior to surgery.

Your Recovery from Lap-Band Surgery
Arrange to have someone take you home after your surgery, as you will likely be groggy from the anesthesia. You may be sore, but your surgeon can prescribe pain medication to help you get through the pain. Your mouth may feel dry and cottony, but you can only have an occasional sip of water or suck on an ice cube during the first several hours after surgery. You will want to get a lot of rest when you return home, but try to walk as much as possible. Early walking will decrease your risk of developing a blood clot. Do not lift anything heavy or engage in exercise until you get the "all-clear" from your surgeon. In general, most people can return to work within a week. If you have a physically demanding job, you may be out longer. You should also be able to return to normal activity and regular exercise within four to six weeks.

You must slowly get re-accustomed to eating solid foods after undergoing Lap-Band surgery. Individual recommendations vary, but in general, a liquid-only diet is recommended for the first two weeks to allow the swelling in your stomach time to abate. Be prepared and stock up on ice chips, clear broths, skim milk and sugar-free popsicles and fruit juice for the first two weeks after your Lap-Band surgery. Your surgeon may recommend a diet of semi-solid, pureed foods for the following two to four weeks. You will likely be able to eat solid foods again six weeks after your surgery. During recovery, it is important to drink plenty of water, although never with your meals. You will also need to follow a post-weight loss-surgery nutrition plan that includes vitamins and minerals for as long as you have the Lap-Band. If you have any questions about your diet, ask your surgeon or a registered dietician for guidance.

Lap-Band Fills
Your stomach needs to heal from surgery before your first fill, so the first adjustment is usually around six weeks after surgery. Many people who have undergone gastric banding surgery report that they can still eat relatively normal amounts of food until the first fill. Many may even start to get hungry after a month after surgery, which is a normal sign of healing. Band adjustments are painless, quick, and can be done during routine surgeon's office visits. Fills can help people with Lap-Bands get over weight loss plateaus. They can also be performed to minimize side effects.

Life After Lap-Band
Weight loss with gastric banding tends to be gradual. You may lose up to two or three pounds a week in the first year after the surgery, but one pound a week is the average. This slows in the 12 to 18 months after your surgery. On average, gastric banding produces a loss of about 40 percent of excess weight in the first year and 55 percent of excess weight in the second year.
After you recover from your surgery, your new life begins. Many people find comfort and answers by accessing online resources.

For example, Lap-Band manufacturer Allergan's online support program is called My LAP-BAND® Journey. The companion site offers interactive and personalized support services such as a weight loss and exercise tracker, as well as Lap-Band friendly recipes, including Hamburger-Mushroom Saute with Rice, and a vegetarian stir-fry. The site also offers a datebook feature that helps manage your doctor's appointments.
Both virtual and actual support groups may help you adjust to your new life. These groups allow you to connect with others and discuss your triumphs and frustrations. Make sure to ask your Lap-Band surgeon about local support groups.

Many people who shed massive amounts of weight with Lap-Band or other forms of bariatric surgery find that they are left with hanging fat or flab. Additional post-bariatric body contouring surgeries — such as the arm lift, thigh lift, panniculectomy, bra-line back lift or lower body lift — may be necessary down the road.

Lap-Band Side Effects
Weight loss surgery is not a quick fix, and certain complications may occur with the Lap-Band such as nausea, vomiting, ulceration, gastritis (irritated stomach tissue), gastroesophageal reflux, heartburn, bloating, difficulty swallowing, dehydration, constipation and/or weight regain.
Adhering to some dietary guidelines can help you avoid problems such as nausea and vomiting. They include:
• Do eat very slowly
• Don't drink and eat at the same time because this may increase the chance of discomfort and vomiting.
• Do drink at least six to eight cups of water per day between meals.
• Do chew your food thoroughly and eat small bites so it fits through the opening to your stomach pouch.
• Do eat small meals throughout the day.
• Do stop eating when you feel full.
Lap-Band Risks
While extremely safe, there are complications that can occur during or after Lap-Band surgery. They include:
• Bleeding
• Infection
• Slippage of the band, which can occur with persistent vomiting
• Erosion of the band into the inside of the stomach
• Spontaneous deflation of the band due to leakage
• Enlargement of the stomach pouch
• Blockage of the stomach (stomach outlet)
• Switching to an open surgery (if laparoscopy is not successful)
• Anesthesia complications

Consult a Qualified Surgeon
Choosing a qualified bariatric surgeon will reduce your risk of complications and maximize your weight loss. Ask your surgeon or potential surgeon how many Lap-Band procedures your surgeon has performed. Ideally, this number should be greater than100. Also inquire about the services he or she offers such as nutrition counseling, psychological counseling and support groups.

How Much Does Lap Band Surgery Cost?
The cost of Lap-Band surgery varies from about $12,000 to $25,000, depending on where you live. Fills or adjustments can cost $35 to $200. Most insurance companies require a history of previous attempts at weight loss before agreeing to cover the costs of Lap-Band surgery. Make sure you are aware of your insurer's policy before you agree to undergo Lap-Band surgery. Follow-up body contouring procedures, if necessary, will further increase your costs.

A perfect nose?

How experts define the perfect nose through the famous celebrities who have made this cosmetic procedure.

Download the full article here

Posted by: New Beauty Magazine
Spring - Summer 2010
newbeauty.com

Download PDF version

Common Myths and facts about Cosmetic Surgery

Myth: Cosmetic surgery and plastic surgery are one and the same.

The terms "plastic surgery" and "cosmetic surgery"

Are not interchangeable. Confusion about the terms has led to public misconceptions about the two specialties. Cosmetic surgery is the surgery of appearance. It is elective and focuses on the aesthetics of beauty.

Fact: Cosmetic surgeons are qualified to conduct cosmetic surgery.

Cosmetic surgeons are dedicated to the art of cosmetic surgery. Their strong knowledge base, high level of training and practical experience make them among the most qualified physicians to perform cosmetic procedures. In fact, Botox®, laser technology and tumescent liposuction (widely regarded as the best type of liposuction) were developed by ophthalmologists and dermatologists.

Fact: Cosmetic procedures such as Botox®, microdermabrasion and liposuction are increasingly popular among men.

More and more men are seeking cosmetic surgery. According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery's most recent procedural survey the top five most popular procedures among men are Botox, hair transplantation/restoration, laser hair removal, microdermabrasion and liposuction, in that order. Our members report that they continue to see more and more men visit their offices. And the recent Consumer Survey conducted by the AACS shows that 12% of men plan to have cosmetic surgery at some point in the future

Fact: A majority of men believe that personal appearance affects their ability to succeed professionally or get promoted.

According to the recent Consumer Survey conducted by the AACS, 83 percent of men believe that personal appearance plays a role in their professional success and advancement.

Myth: Breast augmentation will fix droopy breasts.

Breast augmentation will not lift droopy breasts. This is best addressed by having a breast lift

Fact: It's safe to breast feed if you have breast implants.

According to the Mayo Clinic, breast-feeding with implants is safe. While your breast milk could absorb some of the silicone from breast implants the amount is not considered harmful to your baby. Because breast milk is the best thing you can feed your baby, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) encourages women with breast implants to breast-feed if they're able to do so.

Myth: Breast implants increase your risk of breast cancer.

The Institute of Medicine (IOM) found evidence that breast implants do not cause breast cancer or the recurrence of breast cancer. However, it's still essential to undergo routine screening for breast cancer (breast self exams, mammograms and clinical breast exams) just as you would if you didn't have breast implants

Myth: Liposuction is an easy way to lose weight.

Your cosmetic surgeon will ask you to lose as much weight as you can first. The results will be better if you are as healthy as possible prior to surgery

Myth: Liposuction removes cellulite.

Because tight bands of fibrous tissue cause cellulite, extracting the fat layer that resides just under the skin may actually worsen the dimpled look. Your cosmetic surgeon will be able to discuss expected results from liposuction and whether the procedure makes sense for you

Myth: Fat comes back after liposuction.

Fat does not come back after liposuction. At birth, the body stops producing fat cells, but they do get bigger or smaller depending on your weight. Liposuction reduces the amount of fat cells in targeted areas. Once the fat cells are removed they're gone forever.

Posted by: The Official Magazine of Cosmetic Surgery