Wendy Lewis is an international insider to the world of anti-aging, skin care, beauty and cosmetic surgery. She is also the author of 10 consumer health and beauty books, including two editions of America’s Cosmetic Doctors & Dentists and her newest title, Plastic Makes Perfect; The Complete Cosmetic Beauty Guide. Her contributions to the beauty industry are vast, of which you can learn more on her website www.wlbeauty.com.

Pierce Mattie: In a recent article on Health News Digest you raved about Lumixyl. Would you say that it even works better than Tri-Luma? What do you see as the biggest difference between the two?

Wendy Lewis: Lumixyl is a newly launched peptide based skin brightening/lightening cream that will sell for around $120 US for 1 ounce pump. I love Tri-Luma, which is a prescription drug from Galderma that is modeled from Kligman's Formula and contatins 4% Hydroquinone, retinoid and a mild steroid. Lumixyl is a hydroquinone alternative, and the results of studies conducted at Stanford showed great results, and it is gentle for all skin types. Lumixyl is an OTC product sold through professional channels, whereas Triluma is an Rx and requires a prescription from an MD. I foresee that some dermatologists may put patients on a regimen that contains both of these formulations in some cases. 

Pierce Mattie: There are many aesthetic consultants in Manhattan, Palm Beach and Beverly Hills but no one who executes it as well as you. I have always said it’s your skill to really match up your clients with the right physician. What kind of research goes into your work?

Wendy Lewis: I am flattered Pierce, especially coming from someone who is a guru in the beauty biz. I take my "Knife Coach" brand very seriously and care about my clients and the recommendations I give them. I do a ton of research, attend conferences in the US and Europe, routinely interview and visit doctors in all specialties and read trade journals online so I am up to speed on all the latest developments. I have never altered from my original business model, which differs greatly from other me too "consultants" I have come across; my independence and impartiality is paramount, I treat all clients with total confidentiality, and I am not in anyone's pocket.

When I suggest a product or practitioner for a client, it comes from the heart and from my personal knowledge and expertise. I am doing more phone and webcam consultations today with private clients than face to face, both from an economical point and for convenience for the clients who are busy, active, and international. It's not perfect, but it's pretty close, and I have been at it now for over a dozen years.

In this economy I have noticed an increase in spending on faux luxuries aka knock-off’s especially sunglasses this summer but Botox, come on!

I will confess amongst my peers we have all been spending a little less time in our favorite surgeon’s office. The reality is that getting facial injections in this financial slump is not a priority with the majority. For those of you who refuse to go without those wrinkle flatteners and find a surgeon who has a record breaking price do your homework and please don’t skimp.

2009 is the year of the eye lash, we are obsessed - in America we have Brooke Shields touting Latisse, we have the new vibrational mascara wand from Lancome called Oscillation and we also have industry veterans who pioneered the category of growing the hair of your eyelash with Jan Marini's Marini Lash but leave it to the Brits to create the first cosmetic surgery procedure to fix your weak lashes. I am not certain if the beauty PR team at Pierce Mattie will elect to have this done, but we do find it most buzz worthy!

A breakthrough in UK cosmetic surgery with the announcement of the first ever eyelash transplant, allowing women and men to regain their eyelashes through a micro-surgical transplant allowing women and men with complete or partial eyelash loss to regain their eyelashes through a micro-surgical transplant procedure - doing away with the need for false eyelashes.

The micro-surgical eyelash transplant procedure is only available in the UK, by Transform and marks an important landmark in permanent treatment of Madarosis - the medical term for eyelash loss.

The procedure takes approximately four hours and is done under local anaesthetic. It begins by taking a hair graft from the back of the head and then by dissecting it under a microscope, it is placed into tiny incisions in the eyelid.

The procedure is minimally invasive and usually only one session is needed with natural results visible between 4-6 months post procedure.

Ideal candidates of eyelash transplants are those who suffer from alopecia, trichotillomania (self-inflicted obsessive plucking), or those who lost hair due to radiation or chemotherapy. However, the treatment can also be used for cosmetic purposes to improve the fullness and length of lashes - competing directly with the false lash market.

Transform's Shami Thomas comments; "As the UK's largest cosmetic surgery provider, we're constantly looking for innovative treatments that can offer our patients a new-found confidence.

"We often look to America for the latest in cosmetic surgery as they're the pioneers in the industry, but not all are as successful and safe as this one. The Eyelash Transplant procedure is a very safe, cost-effective and pain-free treatment that can have life-changing effects."

Case Study

Transform treated the UK's first ever patient, 19-year-old Louise Thomas of Stockport, Manchester, with resounding success. Trichotillomania sufferer, Louise, comments "Having suffered from trichotillomania for 17 years, I learned to accept that I'd never have real lashes again. That's quite a hard issue for a young girl to come to terms with.

"When I heard about this treatment it sounded too good to be true but the results are absolutely amazing! I feel so feminine again and simple things like being able to wear mascara have made such a positive difference with my confidence."

Eyelash Transplants at Transform clinics start from GBP3500. For more information, visit 
 
 

Liposuction was developed in the 1970s in Italy as a way for people to effectively remove fat from problem areas that do not respond to traditional weight loss techniques. The procedure gained rapid popularity over the years, soon becoming the most commonly performed cosmetic procedure in the US. New technology helped increase the effectiveness and simplicity of liposuction, including the introduction of tumescent anesthesia and laser energy. 

Laser lipolysis is a pioneering technology in liposuction that offers a less invasive alternative to the traditional procedure. LaserSculpt is performed using the Smartlipo Laser, manufactured by Cynosure or the SlimLipo manufactured by Palomar, and is the first laser liposuction procedure cleared by the FDA. Since its clearance in November 2006, Lasersculpt has become one of the fastest-growing procedures in the US, successfully offering a safer, more affordable and more effective choice for patients considering liposuction.

Such physicians as Dr. Steven Victor are advocating the use of laser technology vs. the knife as an alternative to liposuction. Dr. Steven Victor, CEO of LaserSculpt, Inc., is pleased to announce the airing of their infomercial promoting laser assisted liposuction. This is the first cosmetic infomercial to air the new technology of laser assisted liposuction.

Today, Icelandic TV show Frettaaukinn will air the story of a small girl, too sick to travel, who was in need of life-saving surgery and the heroic efforts of Dr. Paul Castellanos who performed the procedure using the UltraPulse SurgiTouch CO2 laser with Digital AcuBlade microsurgery system supplied by Lumenis
 
Lumenis Ltd., the world's largest medical laser company, announced today that it supplied an UltraPulse SurgiTouch CO2 laser with Digital AcuBlade microsurgery system to the Landspitalinn University Hospital in Reykjavik, Iceland. Lumenis' state of the art laser system, was used by Dr. Paul Castellanos to perform Trans-oral Laser Microsurgery (TLM) for the treatment of airway stenosis with obstructing neurofibromatosis of the laryngopharynx on a 9-year-old girl and four other patients.

Whether in a quest for beauty or out of necessity, millions of Americans will have plastic surgery this year. To stay ahead of the demand, the hottest topics, technologies, and research will be presented at Plastic Surgery 2009, the annual scientific meeting of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), Oct. 23-27, in Seattle. The meeting, held at the Washington State Convention and Trade Center, will be attended by more than 5,000 doctors, medical personnel and exhibitors in the field of plastic surgery.

"Plastic Surgery 2009 is the complete plastic surgery experience featuring the latest information on cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery techniques," said ASPS President John Canady, MD. "New discoveries on facial aging, novel uses for Botox(R)( )to treat chronic pain, concerns about do-it-yourself cosmetic treatments and more will be explored. Amazing reconstructive surgery breakthroughs that will one day allow U.S. soldiers with artificial limbs to feel sensation will be revealed."

Dr. Michael Feiz, lead surgeon at the Beverly Hills Comprehensive Weight Loss Center, has performed more Lap Band surgeries than any other doctor. For overweight Los Angeles residents, Lap Band surgery is the answer they have been looking for to shed the unhealthy weight and return to a more active life. Performed laparoscopic with almost no scarring, Lap Band surgery has the added benefit of enabling the patient to control their weight loss progress. Unlike gastric bypass surgery, Lap Band surgery does not involve the permanent reduction in size of the stomach. Instead, a small cinched section of plastic is placed around the upper area of the stomach, creating a temporarily shrunken stomach area for food to pass through. The other factor that makes Lap Band surgery so unique from gastric bypass is that the Lap Band is connected to a port that enables adjustment of the amount of solid food that can pass through the stomach. Finally, Lap Band surgery is so attractive because it can be easily reversed by simply removing the Lap Band if something goes amiss.

A pioneer in successful Lap Band surgery, Dr. Michael Feiz of the Beverly Hills Comprehensive Weight Loss Center has performed the world's most cosmetic Lap Band surgery. With degrees from UCLA, New York Medical College and a residency and fellowship at USC Medical Center and Cedars Sinai, Dr. Feiz is highly trained and skilled in Bariatric and minimally invasive surgery. All prospective Lap Band surgery patients who visit the Beverly Hills Comprehensive Weight Loss Center must first undergo a full 360 degree evaluation of their health - mental and physical - as well as their habits and attitudes toward exercise and food.

Renowned plastic surgeon Dr. Julian Henley will be taking consultations in New York City, Darien, CT and New Haven, CT for potential candidates of his revolutionary new procedure the BioMatrix Lift.

For over 20 years, Dr. Henley has stood at the forefront of his field's exciting evolution, developing new techniques to improve results and expand possibilities. The culmination of two years of research, the BioMatrix Lift represents the latest in surgical facial rejuvenation procedures designed to provide a healthier and more youthful appearance.

Renowned plastic surgeon Dr. Julian Henley will be taking consultations in New York City, Darien, CT and New Haven, CT for potential candidates of his revolutionary new procedure the BioMatrix Lift.

For over 20 years, Dr. Henley has stood at the forefront of his field's exciting evolution, developing new techniques to improve results and expand possibilities. The culmination of two years of research, the BioMatrix Lift represents the latest in surgical facial rejuvenation procedures designed to provide a healthier and more youthful appearance.

Renowned plastic surgeon Dr. Julian Henley will be taking consultations in New York City, Darien, CT and New Haven, CT for potential candidates of his revolutionary new procedure the BioMatrix Lift.

For over 20 years, Dr. Henley has stood at the forefront of his field's exciting evolution, developing new techniques to improve results and expand possibilities. The culmination of two years of research, the BioMatrix Lift represents the latest in surgical facial rejuvenation procedures designed to provide a healthier and more youthful appearance.

Faces don't lie when it comes to showing signs of aging. Yet gravity alone is not the sole determinant of the aging face. Studies have demonstrated that volume loss of soft tissue and bone is at least equally important to facial aging. The loss of volume in the face over time can cause deep lines, sunken areas around the eyes, temples, nose and jowls. With the recent FDA approval of Sculptra Aesthetic, physicians now have a non-invasive tool to increase facial volume, stimulate collagen production, and reverse some of the visible signs of aging.

"The basics of facial aging are that first the face deflates with volume loss and then begins to sag," says Lori H. Saltz, M.D., a board certified plastic surgeon and Medical Director of La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre. "Sculptra is different than the fillers that are on the aesthetic market because it actually is a volumizer that stimulates a person's own collagen to rebuild some of the volume that is naturally lost during the aging process," adds Saltz. Sculptra contains poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) and is biocompatible, meaning it will not harm your body. PLLA has been used for many years in dissolvable stitches and medical implants as well as for cosmetic purposes in Europe for the past ten years.

Despite enduring an almost 5% decline in market growth over 2008, the global facial injectable market will begin to recover in 2010, according to Millennium Research Group

According to Millennium Research Group (MRG), the global authority on medical technology market intelligence, the nearly $1.2 billion global facial injectable market declined by almost 5% over 2008 as patients chose to delay or forego treatment as a result of the economic crisis. The market will, however, begin recovery in 2010, and by 2014, will return to the strong pre-recession growth rates of over 15%. MRG's facial injectable series, which includes separate reports on North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Latin America, finds that many manufacturers are refining marketing strategies and strengthening product portfolios in order to establish optimal market position in the coming years.

To combat financial pressures and bolster share in advance of economic recovery, some firms that had longstanding plans to enter the US market were granted FDA approval and launched new products in 2009 in hopes of stimulating interest and adoption amongst new practitioners and patients. In the US, notable releases included the highly anticipated Dysport by Ipsen and Medicis Pharmaceutical, and the approval of Sculptra Aesthetic by sanofi-aventis. In the European facial injectable market, Ipsen and Galderma launched Azzalure, a version of Dysport that is rebranded for aesthetic use in Europe. Although these competitors launched their products during difficult financial times, the interest stimulated through these launches will carry through into recovery, positioning the firms favorably for improved cosmetic procedure volumes.

Maybe you've received eye-opening holiday gifts in the past such as new electronics, an exciting vacation or that car you have always craved. The gift of cosmetic surgery is not a new phenomenon, but many are going that route this holiday season as husbands and wives yearn for that perfect present to their loved one.

"It's the season of giving and cosmetic surgery can fit into that category just as easily as some of the more traditional gifts out there," said Dr. Patrick McMenamin, MD, President of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery. "What better way to ring in the New Year than to get that procedure that you've always wanted? And if it's a present to or from a loved one, that makes it all the better."

According to a consumer survey by the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, 46 percent of consumers say they would forego an expensive vacation or luxury car to pay for cosmetic surgery.

Surgery gift-giving does take some planning, as the procedures are often done before Christmas, so patients are either recovering or showing off their improved looks in time for their holiday gatherings. But make sure this is something you talk over with the surgery recipient beforehand, because surprising someone with cosmetic surgery is not recommended.

"There are a large number of people who really want cosmetic surgery, and they just need that little nudge or incentive to get it done," said Dr. Mark Berman, AACS President-Elect. "Well, if you're that spouse or significant other, just make sure you've discussed the idea in the past so it doesn't come as a surprise."

For information on choosing a cosmetic surgeon and other important questions to ask a doctor before having a procedure can be found on the AACS website, www.cosmeticsurgery.org. There's a surgeon finder on the website to help consumers make a well-informed decision on picking a qualified cosmetic surgeon.

LookingYourBest.com, the nationwide reference guide to a Who's Who of America's Cosmetic and Plastic Surgeons, offers more than just a bold new look with its comprehensive re-tooling. It offers an enhanced experience.

The first aspect of the new LookingYourBest.com that will surely catch the eye is the new layout and color scheme. The old, sterile layout with its pastel colors blending out to the window's edge has been supplanted by a sharp, clean page set against a rich chocolate tone, with deep rose accents and a commanding presence. In all, the site wears a more focused, sophisticated feel that visitors are sure to appreciate.

The visual changes, however, belie the underlying metamorphosis that now makes it even easier to seek out doctors and procedures by multiple criteria. A simplified menu and site structure are two of the keys to the improved ease of use, despite the addition of even more data than before. LookingYourBest has long been an excellent source for finding and comparing plastic surgery professionals in aesthetic medicine, both locally and nationally. Now, the search function in both the gallery and surgeon areas has been simplified and visitors are treated to informative videos and 3D procedure animations to further enhance their search.

There's an important difference in the underpinnings as well, though a casual visitor may not even notice. Nevertheless, by streamlining the site's code, the programmers at LookingYourBest have sought to improve what is often the most important aspect of a web site: browsing speed. The new LookingYourBest.com loads faster and is more intuitive than ever.

Dr. Jay Calvert, a Los Angeles-based cosmetic surgeon, is one of the major proponent s of using less invasive instruments to perform facelifts. He has incorporated the use of the endoscope into his practice since the beginning of his career and he views this tool as a valuable instrument in performing surgery because it minimizes the amount of incisions that need to be made in order to reconstruct or remodel the face.

Current facelift approach uses open surgery, a traditional type of operations where a long incision is made for the surgeon to insert the instruments and perform his work. This method often results to big scars and may even cause infections or complications because a large part of the person’s face is exposed thus potentially leading to internal bleeding, hematoma and sever blood loss. Dr. Calvert tries to avoid these risks by using an endoscope in his surgeries.

Despite the increased exposure of cosmetic surgery on television, many prospective patients are still mislead by prevailing myths regarding certain procedures. According to Riverside liposuction and tummy tuck specialized plastic surgeon Ben Childers, MD, many people who meet with him for a consultation are puzzled by the bad information they’ve received.

To help them become educated patients prior to undergoing liposuction, Riverside’s Dr. Childers sets the record straight on the following liposuction myths:

Myth #1: Liposuction is a weight loss surgery.

The truth: Liposuction should not be regarded as a weight loss surgery. Much like tummy tuck surgery and various body “lifts,” liposuction falls under the category of body contouring procedures. It can effectively reduce excess fat in specific body areas, resulting in a more slender figure. Moreover, it can be combined with other body contouring procedures (such as those mentioned above) to optimize results. If interested, Riverside liposuction patients of Dr. Childers should inquire during their consultation (as should patients of any cosmetic surgeon).

Myth #2: Today, liposuction is a “minor” or “lunchtime” procedure.

The truth: Although there are a variety of methods utilized today, all liposuction procedures require incisions, anesthesia, and an adequate post-operative recovery period. Like most plastic surgeons who perform liposuction, Riverside’s Dr. Childers prefers general anesthesia; this means that the patient will be completely asleep during the procedure, and require substantial rest upon waking. “Lunchtime lipo” and other fad procedures may be unsafe, as well as ineffective when compared with liposuction by cannula – which should always be performed by a qualified surgeon.

Myth #3: If areas of the body look disproportionate months later, the surgery was a “botched” liposuction.

The truth: In some cases, this is true; some of Dr. Childers’ Riverside liposuction patients are individuals seeking revision of a botched liposuction obtained elsewhere. More often, though, liposuction irregularities are caused by a patient’s post-operative weight gain. How this happens: Liposuction permanently removes fat cells from the targeted area, so any weight gained will accumulate in other body areas, resulting in a disproportionate appearance. For this reason, patients should keep weight gain at a minimum. Ask your doctor for details.

For more information on undergoing liposuction in Riverside, visit http://www.benchildersmd.com

Stem Cell Assurance, Inc. announced today that Arthur Handal, MD., F.A.C.S. has performed the first regenerative cell breast augmentation through its nationwide physician network.  The procedure was performed at Handal Plastic Surgery in Boca Raton, Florida in the practice's onsite accredited ambulatory surgical facility. 

The patient treated by Dr. Handal underwent regenerative cell breast augmentation on Monday with the goal of an approximate one cup size increase in each breast.  Fat was taken from her hips and thighs by tumescent liposuction and processed to extract naturally-occurring regenerative cells.  Commenting after the surgery, Dr. Handal stated, "Today is a defining moment in breast augmentation surgery.  The offering of this pioneering procedure through a collaborative national physician network is an important milestone that marks major improvement on current technology and the way in which it is delivered to the patient."

By using the Stem Cell Assurance method of breast augmentation, Dr. Handal was able to provide the patient with an augmentation that retains the natural look and feel of the breast.  This technique is currently the only way to perform a breast augmentation without introducing a foreign implant into the body.  The patient's own fat and regenerative cells are used to create a graft for reinsertion to the breast, resulting in no risk of the body rejecting it.  The Stem Cell Assurance technology offers improved outcomes in breast surgery. The fat volume retention rate is estimated to be 80% or more compared to the 30-50% survival rate of fat retention in previous fat grafting procedures.  This new procedure appears to offer a significant advantage with longer lasting results than traditional breast augmentation procedures.

MYA Cosmetic Surgery, one of the UK's leading cosmetic surgery providers, has reported a 15% increase in enquiries compared to the same period last year. MYA looked at figures from the 1st – 14th January 2010 and compared them to the previous year. Breast enlargement is the most popular procedure requested so far in 2010 with this procedure seeing an impressive 21% increase in enquiries compared to the same period last year.

"January is always a busy time for the cosmetic surgery industry," states John Ryan, MYA Chairman and previous owner of cosmetic surgery provider Transform. "After the Christmas and New Year period people often start setting new goals or New Year's resolutions. These goals often include improving ones appearance or completing a goal they never achieved last year. We get a lot of people coming in saying that they have been interested for a while but have never got round to arranging a consultation!"

Figures from MYA Cosmetic Surgery enquiries have shown that so far in 2010 the five most popular procedures with young women have been:

1.Breast Enlargement

2.Liposuction

3.Breast Uplift

4.Rhinoplasty (Nose Reshaping)

5.Tummy Tuck

The popularity of these procedures has remained consistent with the same period in 2009. The extra growth in breast enlargement enquiries makes this easily the most popular cosmetic procedure and MYA expect this trend to continue throughout 2010.

So far this year the most interest in cosmetic surgery has come from the London (25%) region closely followed by Manchester (14%) and Birmingham (11%).

Disclaimer: We have never watched The Hills

This week our hearts sank a little (not too much!) for a reality star gone wrong; Miss Heidi Montag, cast member of MTV’s The Hills eager for press prevails at the young age of 23 with a transformational cosmetic surgery field day gone …wrong.

Here is why we are upset…

• Shame on the cosmetic surgeon; Dr. Frank Ryan who took her money (if they were paid and didn’t do this for free PR) – to give a girl in her 20’s a brow lift, are you nuts? And to go on to GMA and defend your procures, again quite shocking.
• Shame on the publicist that pitched this segment on ABC. Focus on the launch of an album, the sound of her voice, not a tutorial on what she had done. She looks like a cross between Cindy Jackson (Guinness World record holder for having the most cosmetic surgery procedures than anyone else in the world) and Faith Hill (who is two decades her senior, actually Faith now looks younger than Heidi).
• Shame on GMA for giving them continued airtime on such a lamorama topic! Yes this is OK for People Magazine, but I don't think the viewers that lead in to watch Kelly Ripa have coffee with Regis really care. But thank heavens you all chaired against it from your desks. I am sure NBC’s Today Show wouldn’t touch this with a ten foot pole, especially Al Roker.

Some PR advice for you Heidi & Dr. Frank Ryan…

• Get off your double d’s and do some good for humanity.
• Spend your money on therapy, you looked better esthetically before the surgery.
• Take some dance lessons (still not recovering from your Miss Universe performance)
• Get on a plane to Haiti to help w/ the relief aid. There are thousands of people that need medical attention right now including cosmetic surgery to help with severe injuries. 
• When you are asked to sing in an interview and decline, it’s usually because you can’t sing – at all.
• We will keep the PR team in our prayers - this is one hell of a mess that you will be cleaning up in the land of plastics for quite some time. Just remember your doctor clients are practicing medicine here, not doing hair and makeup!

Readers - I would love your thoughts on this! Do you think this type of beauty PR is good?

Disclaimer: We have never watched The Hills

This week our hearts sank a little (not too much!) for a reality star gone wrong; Miss Heidi Montag, cast member of MTV’s The Hills eager for press prevails at the young age of 23 with a transformational cosmetic surgery field day gone …wrong.

Here is why we are upset…

• Shame on the cosmetic surgeon; Dr. Frank Ryan who took her money (if they were paid and didn’t do this for free PR) – to give a girl in her 20’s a brow lift, are you nuts? And to go on to GMA and defend your procures, again quite shocking.
• Shame on the publicist that pitched this segment on ABC. Focus on the launch of an album, the sound of her voice, not a tutorial on what she had done. She looks like a cross between Cindy Jackson (Guinness World record holder for having the most cosmetic surgery procedures than anyone else in the world) and Faith Hill (who is two decades her senior, actually Faith now looks younger than Heidi).
• Shame on GMA for giving them continued airtime on such a lamorama topic! Yes this is OK for People Magazine, but I don't think the viewers that lead in to watch Kelly Ripa have coffee with Regis really care. But thank heavens you all chaired against it from your desks. I am sure NBC’s Today Show wouldn’t touch this with a ten foot pole, especially Al Roker.

Some PR advice for you Heidi & Dr. Frank Ryan…

• Get off your double d’s and do some good for humanity.
• Spend your money on therapy, you looked better esthetically before the surgery.
• Take some dance lessons (still not recovering from your Miss Universe performance)
• Get on a plane to Haiti to help w/ the relief aid. There are thousands of people that need medical attention right now including cosmetic surgery to help with severe injuries. 
• When you are asked to sing in an interview and decline, it’s usually because you can’t sing – at all.
• We will keep the PR team in our prayers - this is one hell of a mess that you will be cleaning up in the land of plastics for quite some time. Just remember your doctor clients are practicing medicine here, not doing hair and makeup!

Readers - I would love your thoughts on this! Do you think this type of beauty PR is good?

A new magazine dedicated to cosmetic surgery just launched at the beginning of this year. New You is the official magazine of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS). Editor J.P. Faber says that its mission is promotion of cosmetic surgery "so that people who are thinking about it today will take action tomorrow."

Potential patients often have many questions or reservations about cosmetic surgery that may prevent them from undergoing a procedure altogether. According to research from Synovate, Inc, the four main factors that keep people from undergoing cosmetic procedures are high price, fear of an unnatural result, pain, and fear of a poor outcome.

Faber says, "We are going to educate the public about cosmetic surgery so that they will feel informed and comfortable enough to make a decision. Our goal is to remove the most common fears surrounding cosmetic surgery – as well as making it more attractive. All we have to do to accomplish this is to show the work of AACS doctors."

The magazine welcomes submissions from any AACS member and their PR firms. "We are looking for ideas and cases, before and after pictures, and other real stories that reveal the true effectiveness of cosmetic surgery," says Faber.

New You will be available free to all Academy members and for sale to the general public.

A new magazine dedicated to cosmetic surgery just launched at the beginning of this year. New You is the official magazine of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS). Editor J.P. Faber says that its mission is promotion of cosmetic surgery "so that people who are thinking about it today will take action tomorrow."

Potential patients often have many questions or reservations about cosmetic surgery that may prevent them from undergoing a procedure altogether. According to research from Synovate, Inc, the four main factors that keep people from undergoing cosmetic procedures are high price, fear of an unnatural result, pain, and fear of a poor outcome.

Faber says, "We are going to educate the public about cosmetic surgery so that they will feel informed and comfortable enough to make a decision. Our goal is to remove the most common fears surrounding cosmetic surgery – as well as making it more attractive. All we have to do to accomplish this is to show the work of AACS doctors."

The magazine welcomes submissions from any AACS member and their PR firms. "We are looking for ideas and cases, before and after pictures, and other real stories that reveal the true effectiveness of cosmetic surgery," says Faber.

New You will be available free to all Academy members and for sale to the general public.

A new magazine dedicated to cosmetic surgery just launched at the beginning of this year. New You is the official magazine of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS). Editor J.P. Faber says that its mission is promotion of cosmetic surgery "so that people who are thinking about it today will take action tomorrow."

Potential patients often have many questions or reservations about cosmetic surgery that may prevent them from undergoing a procedure altogether. According to research from Synovate, Inc, the four main factors that keep people from undergoing cosmetic procedures are high price, fear of an unnatural result, pain, and fear of a poor outcome.

Faber says, "We are going to educate the public about cosmetic surgery so that they will feel informed and comfortable enough to make a decision. Our goal is to remove the most common fears surrounding cosmetic surgery – as well as making it more attractive. All we have to do to accomplish this is to show the work of AACS doctors."

The magazine welcomes submissions from any AACS member and their PR firms. "We are looking for ideas and cases, before and after pictures, and other real stories that reveal the true effectiveness of cosmetic surgery," says Faber.

New You will be available free to all Academy members and for sale to the general public.

A new magazine dedicated to cosmetic surgery just launched at the beginning of this year. New You is the official magazine of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS). Editor J.P. Faber says that its mission is promotion of cosmetic surgery "so that people who are thinking about it today will take action tomorrow."

Potential patients often have many questions or reservations about cosmetic surgery that may prevent them from undergoing a procedure altogether. According to research from Synovate, Inc, the four main factors that keep people from undergoing cosmetic procedures are high price, fear of an unnatural result, pain, and fear of a poor outcome.

Faber says, "We are going to educate the public about cosmetic surgery so that they will feel informed and comfortable enough to make a decision. Our goal is to remove the most common fears surrounding cosmetic surgery – as well as making it more attractive. All we have to do to accomplish this is to show the work of AACS doctors."

The magazine welcomes submissions from any AACS member and their PR firms. "We are looking for ideas and cases, before and after pictures, and other real stories that reveal the true effectiveness of cosmetic surgery," says Faber.

New You will be available free to all Academy members and for sale to the general public.

Patients now have a simple and all-natural way to improve wrinkles, laugh lines and even difficult-to-treat acne scars.  Pioneered by Anthony P. Sclafani, MD, FACS, Director of Facial Plastic Surgery at The New York Eye & Ear Infirmary and Professor at New York Medical College, this new therapy harnesses the body's natural healing ability to improve skin appearance while avoiding the use of synthetic implants, fillers and gels.

In a study to be published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, Dr. Sclafani reported that patients treated with an extract of their own blood, platelet rich fibrin matrix (PRFM), demonstrated significant improvement in the appearance of their laugh lines within 2 weeks of treatment.  Results from the clinical study showed that the effects are stable over a 3 month period.  Additional studies examining the mechanism of action are to be reported soon.

Patients now have a simple and all-natural way to improve wrinkles, laugh lines and even difficult-to-treat acne scars.  Pioneered by Anthony P. Sclafani, MD, FACS, Director of Facial Plastic Surgery at The New York Eye & Ear Infirmary and Professor at New York Medical College, this new therapy harnesses the body's natural healing ability to improve skin appearance while avoiding the use of synthetic implants, fillers and gels.

In a study to be published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, Dr. Sclafani reported that patients treated with an extract of their own blood, platelet rich fibrin matrix (PRFM), demonstrated significant improvement in the appearance of their laugh lines within 2 weeks of treatment.  Results from the clinical study showed that the effects are stable over a 3 month period.  Additional studies examining the mechanism of action are to be reported soon.

Patients now have a simple and all-natural way to improve wrinkles, laugh lines and even difficult-to-treat acne scars.  Pioneered by Anthony P. Sclafani, MD, FACS, Director of Facial Plastic Surgery at The New York Eye & Ear Infirmary and Professor at New York Medical College, this new therapy harnesses the body's natural healing ability to improve skin appearance while avoiding the use of synthetic implants, fillers and gels.

In a study to be published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, Dr. Sclafani reported that patients treated with an extract of their own blood, platelet rich fibrin matrix (PRFM), demonstrated significant improvement in the appearance of their laugh lines within 2 weeks of treatment.  Results from the clinical study showed that the effects are stable over a 3 month period.  Additional studies examining the mechanism of action are to be reported soon.

Dr. Brett Kotlus, a cosmetic surgeon at Allure Medical Spa in Shelby Township, raves about the 3-D system he uses to simulate surgery on prospective clients.  The Vectra 3-D from Canfield Imaging Systems takes an image of the face or body with 12 different digital cameras at once, with a resolution of 36 megapixels.  "This 3-D system has a clever interface that constructs a realistic, modifiable image that can be sculpted in the same way that cosmetic surgery would sculpt a nose or a breast. Within minutes, we can see possible surgical results.  In this scenario, a picture is truly worth a thousand words," explains Dr. Kotlus.  On a computer screen, the patient sees side-by-side pictures, an untouched version and a surgery simulation.  

3-D imaging has emerged as a modern method that helps cosmetic surgeons and patients visualize outcomes.  There is a high demand for a tool that allows people to see what they might look like after cosmetic surgery.  The old days of red and blue tinted glasses are gone, and the newest version of 3-D uses sophisticated computers to create lifelike images. Disney, Pixar, and Dreamworks have brought three-dimensional animated features to movie theatres, with blockbuster reviews. Patients are often surprised to find the same technology used in films like James Cameron's Avatar in their cosmetic surgeon's office.

Dr. Brett Kotlus, a cosmetic surgeon at Allure Medical Spa in Shelby Township, raves about the 3-D system he uses to simulate surgery on prospective clients.  The Vectra 3-D from Canfield Imaging Systems takes an image of the face or body with 12 different digital cameras at once, with a resolution of 36 megapixels.  "This 3-D system has a clever interface that constructs a realistic, modifiable image that can be sculpted in the same way that cosmetic surgery would sculpt a nose or a breast. Within minutes, we can see possible surgical results.  In this scenario, a picture is truly worth a thousand words," explains Dr. Kotlus.  On a computer screen, the patient sees side-by-side pictures, an untouched version and a surgery simulation.  

3-D imaging has emerged as a modern method that helps cosmetic surgeons and patients visualize outcomes.  There is a high demand for a tool that allows people to see what they might look like after cosmetic surgery.  The old days of red and blue tinted glasses are gone, and the newest version of 3-D uses sophisticated computers to create lifelike images. Disney, Pixar, and Dreamworks have brought three-dimensional animated features to movie theatres, with blockbuster reviews. Patients are often surprised to find the same technology used in films like James Cameron's Avatar in their cosmetic surgeon's office.

Dr. Brett Kotlus, a cosmetic surgeon at Allure Medical Spa in Shelby Township, raves about the 3-D system he uses to simulate surgery on prospective clients.  The Vectra 3-D from Canfield Imaging Systems takes an image of the face or body with 12 different digital cameras at once, with a resolution of 36 megapixels.  "This 3-D system has a clever interface that constructs a realistic, modifiable image that can be sculpted in the same way that cosmetic surgery would sculpt a nose or a breast. Within minutes, we can see possible surgical results.  In this scenario, a picture is truly worth a thousand words," explains Dr. Kotlus.  On a computer screen, the patient sees side-by-side pictures, an untouched version and a surgery simulation.  

3-D imaging has emerged as a modern method that helps cosmetic surgeons and patients visualize outcomes.  There is a high demand for a tool that allows people to see what they might look like after cosmetic surgery.  The old days of red and blue tinted glasses are gone, and the newest version of 3-D uses sophisticated computers to create lifelike images. Disney, Pixar, and Dreamworks have brought three-dimensional animated features to movie theatres, with blockbuster reviews. Patients are often surprised to find the same technology used in films like James Cameron's Avatar in their cosmetic surgeon's office.

One of the nation's leading innovators in aesthetic surgery of the face and body, Randy Miller, MD of The MIAMI Institute for Age Management and Intervention, was elected President-Elect of the Florida Society of Plastic Surgeons, one of the nation's largest specialty societies.

Greater than 10 percent of all board certified plastic surgeons in the United States practice in Florida. The Florida Society of Plastic Surgeons provides continuing medical education and patient safety courses during their annual meeting - which attracts visiting professors and plastic surgeons from around the world. Dr. Miller specializes in aesthetic surgical procedures, including facial rejuvenation and body contouring, as well as reconstructive surgery of the breast, body and face. He is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery.

One of the nation's leading innovators in aesthetic surgery of the face and body, Randy Miller, MD of The MIAMI Institute for Age Management and Intervention, was elected President-Elect of the Florida Society of Plastic Surgeons, one of the nation's largest specialty societies.

Greater than 10 percent of all board certified plastic surgeons in the United States practice in Florida. The Florida Society of Plastic Surgeons provides continuing medical education and patient safety courses during their annual meeting - which attracts visiting professors and plastic surgeons from around the world. Dr. Miller specializes in aesthetic surgical procedures, including facial rejuvenation and body contouring, as well as reconstructive surgery of the breast, body and face. He is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery.

Plastic surgery PR & cosmetic marketing advancements are taking shape with a new, non-invasive way to gently and effectively reduce fat in targeted areas of the body is available at La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre. (LJCSC).  The Zeltiq Procedure uses an advanced cooling technology that targets and eliminates fat cells, resulting in noticeable, natural-looking fat reduction in those areas.  

Plastic surgery PR & cosmetic marketing advancements are taking shape with a new, non-invasive way to gently and effectively reduce fat in targeted areas of the body is available at La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre. (LJCSC).  The Zeltiq Procedure uses an advanced cooling technology that targets and eliminates fat cells, resulting in noticeable, natural-looking fat reduction in those areas.  

Plastic surgery PR & cosmetic marketing advancements are taking shape with a new, non-invasive way to gently and effectively reduce fat in targeted areas of the body is available at La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery Centre. (LJCSC).  The Zeltiq Procedure uses an advanced cooling technology that targets and eliminates fat cells, resulting in noticeable, natural-looking fat reduction in those areas.  

Cosmetic surgery PR & marketing efforts are everywhere these days: TV, magazines, the Internet and more. And according to new data, society is indeed more comfortable talking about cosmetic surgery than ever before.

In a survey released today by the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, 71 percent of respondents think society is less judgmental about cosmetic surgery than it was just five years ago. Furthermore, about 62 percent said society's attitude toward cosmetic surgery made them feel more comfortable about getting a procedure.

"This is a confirmation of what many of us have felt for a long time – that cosmetic surgery has become mainstream," said Dr. Mark Berman, AACS President-Elect. "A variety of factors have contributed to the normalization of our industry, but the bottom line is that people are not afraid to talk openly about cosmetic surgery anymore."

Cosmetic surgery PR & marketing efforts are everywhere these days: TV, magazines, the Internet and more. And according to new data, society is indeed more comfortable talking about cosmetic surgery than ever before.

In a survey released today by the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, 71 percent of respondents think society is less judgmental about cosmetic surgery than it was just five years ago. Furthermore, about 62 percent said society's attitude toward cosmetic surgery made them feel more comfortable about getting a procedure.

"This is a confirmation of what many of us have felt for a long time – that cosmetic surgery has become mainstream," said Dr. Mark Berman, AACS President-Elect. "A variety of factors have contributed to the normalization of our industry, but the bottom line is that people are not afraid to talk openly about cosmetic surgery anymore."

Cosmetic Surgery Marketing Reports show that the US may have experienced a 12% decrease in the number of surgical and non-surgical cosmetic treatments, but the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons have a different story to tell. They found the UK experienced a 5% increase in demand from 2007 to 2008, and a 9% increase from 2008 to 2009.

Thanks to an 8.7% increase over the previous year, the UK plastic surgery industry reached a total market value of GBP536 million by the end of 2008. The reason for this is believed to be the addition of a number of new products and services that offer effective results with shorter recovery periods. A portion of the growth is also attributed to advancements in technology, which have improved a number of the current procedures being offered.

Financing options have also been attributed with a significant amount of the growth simply because it has made a number of larger procedures more affordable. Men have also been opting to have cosmetic treatments. In fact, this is currently the fastest growing demographic. Overall, procedures vary greatly in price, yet they have generally decreased slightly, which is a relief after several years of increases.

Cosmetic Surgery Marketing Reports show that the US may have experienced a 12% decrease in the number of surgical and non-surgical cosmetic treatments, but the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons have a different story to tell. They found the UK experienced a 5% increase in demand from 2007 to 2008, and a 9% increase from 2008 to 2009.

Thanks to an 8.7% increase over the previous year, the UK plastic surgery industry reached a total market value of GBP536 million by the end of 2008. The reason for this is believed to be the addition of a number of new products and services that offer effective results with shorter recovery periods. A portion of the growth is also attributed to advancements in technology, which have improved a number of the current procedures being offered.

Financing options have also been attributed with a significant amount of the growth simply because it has made a number of larger procedures more affordable. Men have also been opting to have cosmetic treatments. In fact, this is currently the fastest growing demographic. Overall, procedures vary greatly in price, yet they have generally decreased slightly, which is a relief after several years of increases.

Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. is pleased to announce that the Lux1540 Fractional non-ablative laser handpiece has received the first clearance by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of striae (stretch marks) using a fractional laser. This new clearance will allow aesthetic practitioners to treat the millions of women worldwide who have unwanted stretch marks.

Ongoing clinical studies have shown that subjects treated with the Lux1540 achieved an average improvement of between 51% and 75% in the appearance of their striae, based upon a blinded review of photographs comparing the pre-treatment appearance of striae versus the results three months post-treatment.

Francesca de Angelis, MD, a leading plastic surgeon from Naples, Italy who has led the research effort, noted, "Through our ongoing clinical study, and with thousands of satisfied patients treated throughout Italy, we have found that the Lux1540 is the first laser treatment for stretch marks that truly works."

"Our experience with the Palomar Lux1540 is consistent with the results seen in Europe," noted Vic Narurkar, MD, a dermatologist in San Francisco, CA and past president of the American Society of Cosmetic Dermatology and Aesthetic Surgery. "For the right patient, the Lux1540 provides a laser treatment option for stretch marks that offers significant improvement. The non-ablative fractional laser allows for comfortable treatments with little to no impact on the patient's daily activities."

Carolyn Chang, MD, Vice-Chair of Plastic Surgery at California Medical Center in San Francisco, believes fractional laser treatment for stretch marks will be a highly-requested procedure in her practice. "After pregnancy, women are always looking to eliminate their stretch marks. The Palomar laser can play a key role in the 'mommy makeover' so many new mothers are asking for."

Robert Weiss, MD, director of the Maryland Laser, Skin, and Vein Institute and immediate past president of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, added, "I have tested many of the available fractional lasers, and Palomar's Lux1540 looks to fulfill a long sought after need for a comfortable treatment with very high patient satisfaction for stretch marks."

This new clearance expands the broad range of treatments offered by the Lux1540, which may be used to treat surgical scars, acne scars, and melasma, as well as offer non-ablative skin resurfacing.  In support of this new clearance, Palomar in conjunction with Body1.com has released a consumer education site, Stretchmarks1.com, to help consumers understand more about treatment options and locate providers of Palomar's Lux1540 technology for stretch marks.

The Lux1540 Fractional non-ablative laser handpiece is available for use with Palomar's flagship StarLux® 500 laser and pulsed light platform. The StarLux 500 allows practitioners to attach a variety of application-specific handpieces to one base unit that easily expands as their practice grows.

To learn more about using the Lux1540 Fractional non-ablative laser to treat stretch marks, including the latest clinical data and before-and-after photos, please visit www.palomarmedical.com.

Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. is pleased to announce that the Lux1540 Fractional non-ablative laser handpiece has received the first clearance by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of striae (stretch marks) using a fractional laser. This new clearance will allow aesthetic practitioners to treat the millions of women worldwide who have unwanted stretch marks.

Ongoing clinical studies have shown that subjects treated with the Lux1540 achieved an average improvement of between 51% and 75% in the appearance of their striae, based upon a blinded review of photographs comparing the pre-treatment appearance of striae versus the results three months post-treatment.

Francesca de Angelis, MD, a leading plastic surgeon from Naples, Italy who has led the research effort, noted, "Through our ongoing clinical study, and with thousands of satisfied patients treated throughout Italy, we have found that the Lux1540 is the first laser treatment for stretch marks that truly works."

"Our experience with the Palomar Lux1540 is consistent with the results seen in Europe," noted Vic Narurkar, MD, a dermatologist in San Francisco, CA and past president of the American Society of Cosmetic Dermatology and Aesthetic Surgery. "For the right patient, the Lux1540 provides a laser treatment option for stretch marks that offers significant improvement. The non-ablative fractional laser allows for comfortable treatments with little to no impact on the patient's daily activities."

Carolyn Chang, MD, Vice-Chair of Plastic Surgery at California Medical Center in San Francisco, believes fractional laser treatment for stretch marks will be a highly-requested procedure in her practice. "After pregnancy, women are always looking to eliminate their stretch marks. The Palomar laser can play a key role in the 'mommy makeover' so many new mothers are asking for."

Robert Weiss, MD, director of the Maryland Laser, Skin, and Vein Institute and immediate past president of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, added, "I have tested many of the available fractional lasers, and Palomar's Lux1540 looks to fulfill a long sought after need for a comfortable treatment with very high patient satisfaction for stretch marks."

This new clearance expands the broad range of treatments offered by the Lux1540, which may be used to treat surgical scars, acne scars, and melasma, as well as offer non-ablative skin resurfacing.  In support of this new clearance, Palomar in conjunction with Body1.com has released a consumer education site, Stretchmarks1.com, to help consumers understand more about treatment options and locate providers of Palomar's Lux1540 technology for stretch marks.

The Lux1540 Fractional non-ablative laser handpiece is available for use with Palomar's flagship StarLux® 500 laser and pulsed light platform. The StarLux 500 allows practitioners to attach a variety of application-specific handpieces to one base unit that easily expands as their practice grows.

To learn more about using the Lux1540 Fractional non-ablative laser to treat stretch marks, including the latest clinical data and before-and-after photos, please visit www.palomarmedical.com.

Palomar Medical Technologies, Inc. is pleased to announce that the Lux1540 Fractional non-ablative laser handpiece has received the first clearance by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of striae (stretch marks) using a fractional laser. This new clearance will allow aesthetic practitioners to treat the millions of women worldwide who have unwanted stretch marks.

Ongoing clinical studies have shown that subjects treated with the Lux1540 achieved an average improvement of between 51% and 75% in the appearance of their striae, based upon a blinded review of photographs comparing the pre-treatment appearance of striae versus the results three months post-treatment.

Francesca de Angelis, MD, a leading plastic surgeon from Naples, Italy who has led the research effort, noted, "Through our ongoing clinical study, and with thousands of satisfied patients treated throughout Italy, we have found that the Lux1540 is the first laser treatment for stretch marks that truly works."

"Our experience with the Palomar Lux1540 is consistent with the results seen in Europe," noted Vic Narurkar, MD, a dermatologist in San Francisco, CA and past president of the American Society of Cosmetic Dermatology and Aesthetic Surgery. "For the right patient, the Lux1540 provides a laser treatment option for stretch marks that offers significant improvement. The non-ablative fractional laser allows for comfortable treatments with little to no impact on the patient's daily activities."

Carolyn Chang, MD, Vice-Chair of Plastic Surgery at California Medical Center in San Francisco, believes fractional laser treatment for stretch marks will be a highly-requested procedure in her practice. "After pregnancy, women are always looking to eliminate their stretch marks. The Palomar laser can play a key role in the 'mommy makeover' so many new mothers are asking for."

Robert Weiss, MD, director of the Maryland Laser, Skin, and Vein Institute and immediate past president of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, added, "I have tested many of the available fractional lasers, and Palomar's Lux1540 looks to fulfill a long sought after need for a comfortable treatment with very high patient satisfaction for stretch marks."

This new clearance expands the broad range of treatments offered by the Lux1540, which may be used to treat surgical scars, acne scars, and melasma, as well as offer non-ablative skin resurfacing.  In support of this new clearance, Palomar in conjunction with Body1.com has released a consumer education site, Stretchmarks1.com, to help consumers understand more about treatment options and locate providers of Palomar's Lux1540 technology for stretch marks.

The Lux1540 Fractional non-ablative laser handpiece is available for use with Palomar's flagship StarLux® 500 laser and pulsed light platform. The StarLux 500 allows practitioners to attach a variety of application-specific handpieces to one base unit that easily expands as their practice grows.

To learn more about using the Lux1540 Fractional non-ablative laser to treat stretch marks, including the latest clinical data and before-and-after photos, please visit www.palomarmedical.com.

The doctors at the Center For Plastic Surgery (Williamsville, NY) have developed a new facelift procedure, trademarked "QLift," that offers similar long-lasting results as a traditional facelift, but takes only 90 minutes to perform and requires only a few days of recovery.

Nearly 11.7 million cosmetic surgical and nonsurgical procedures were performed in the United States in 2007, according to statistics released by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. With this high demand, the options available are increasing steadily as doctors and researchers look for safe, quick and effective procedures to gracefully turn back the effects of aging. The innovation of the QLift, developed at Western New York's oldest and largest group practice, The Center For Plastic Surgery, is an exciting advancement.

The QLift typically only takes 90 minutes to perform and is minimally invasive, resulting in minimum bruising or bleeding. It also requires only local anesthesia and is performed on an outpatient basis. This, in addition to the quick-recovery, has helped fuel its popularity and has attracted patients from across the state and into Canada.

"The QLift is designed to lift and support the droopy elements of the cheeks, face and to some extent, the neck. The soft tissue of the face is lifted and repositioned into a more vertical and youthful position and the underlying tissues of the face are tightened," says Dr. Zvi Sharf, M.D., F.I.C.S.

Dr. David P. Rigan, M.D., F.A.C.S., of the Center For Plastic Surgery, notes that the procedure is perfect for today's "time-conscious man or woman who wants to rejuvenate their youthful appearance, yet does not have the luxury of time to stay at home to recuperate and heal for several weeks after a more traditional facelift." With the QLift, patients are able to go home immediately following the procedure.

Patients are also able to combine the QLift with other surgeries and cosmetic procedures such as eyelid surgery, neck or chin liposuction, and the increasingly popular Botox or injectable fillers.

The innovation of the QLift procedure is an exciting advancement in the industry. It comes at a time when people are interested in turning back the effects of aging and yet need to quickly return to their business and social lives.

Oscar "Swag Bags" are almost as famous as the awards themselves, highly coveted by celebrities and getting more and more glamorous every year. This year is no exception. Hollywood Baskets hand-picked a bevy of high-end products that are sure to impress each celebrity – and help maintain their "Oscar Glow."

This year's 82nd Academy Awards® has attracted top presenters ranging from new stars to well-known Hollywood legends and comedians – from Zac Efron and Kristen Stewart to Barbra Streisand, John Travolta, and Tina Fey. Nominees include George Clooney, Sandra Bullock, Meryl Streep and Penelope Cruz, among others.

Dr. Adam Kolker, a renowned Manhattan plastic surgeon, is proud to announce the inclusion of his line of skincare products, AKMD Skincare, in the Oscar "Celebrity Swag Bags" that will be given to this year's top presenters and nominees. AKMD Skincare was selected from among thousands of products to be part of this VIP Oscar Swag Bag.

Dr. Adam Kolker and Lauren Kolker, husband and wife co-founders of AKMD Skincare, researched and developed the product line in response to the needs of Dr. Kolker's patients. As an aesthetic plastic surgeon, Dr. Kolker found with increasing frequency that his patients were interested in both preventive and protective care for their skin.  Disillusioned with existing products, Dr. Kolker worked with a team of biochemists, formulating both a line of consumer skincare products and a line of professional-strength medical products that he felt would provide the most significant and dramatic results.

AKMD Skincare provides protection from photo-aging, enables superficial resurfacing, rebuilds collagen, promotes cellular renewal, and replenishes moisture. All of these techniques work in concert to provide you with healthier, glowing, and more youthful-looking skin. For more information, please visit www.akmdskincare.com.

A portion of the proceeds from the AKMD Skincare line of products will be donated to Operation Smile, an international not-for-profit organization providing free surgery to more than 140,000 children with facial deformities in 26 developing countries and the United States. As an Operation Smile volunteer surgeon, it is Dr. Kolker's hope to bring smiles to the faces of these children, changing their lives forever. www.operationsmile.org.

Chateau Amber Retreat is a new, luxurious, stress-free experience for post-cosmetic surgery -- a private and tranquil environment where patients receive the finest specialized care from a team of experienced medical professionals 24 hours a day. Luxury transportation, accommodations, and special diet meals are served bedside in choices of rooms, suites and villas. The Retreat's main focus is squarely on the client and in doing everything possible to speed recovery -- all with ease.

The concept of Chateau Amber Retreat was born in the spectacular desert resort area several months back as a niche market with a wide variety of specialty and cosmetic surgery centers, yet with no recovery center specializing in cosmetic surgery. The desert holds an ideal recovering location with its beautiful mountain views and desert tranquility. Charles Borromeo, Founder and President and an emerging expert on post-surgical aftercare, stated, "We would encourage everyone going through cosmetic surgery to take a good look at our services and talk with us to tailor a custom package, showcasing the best attentive care offered anywhere."

Getting older is a fact of life. Looking older doesn't have to be. Patients now have a non-invasive treatment option to reduce the signs of aging and fight wrinkles for good -- with no downtime.  Known for their use of the latest technological advancements, Dr. Gilbert Lee and his team at Changes Plastic Surgery & Spa are now using Artefill, the first and only FDA-approved microsphere-enhanced dermal filler for the correction of smile lines, or the lines from your nose to the corners of your mouth.

"Dermal fillers continue to grow in popularity among my patients and we find Artefill to be optimal for individuals who want a permanent solution for wrinkle correction," said Dr. Lee. "Patients love that the results are just as good now as they were when they were first injected."

Artefill is a simple, in-office procedure that takes approximately fifteen minutes to complete. A patient is injected with the product similar to other dermal fillers with the key difference being its lasting effect. Artefill comes mixed with local anesthetic, so there is virtually no discomfort during the injection process.  The unique microspheres in Artefill are not absorbed by the body and therefore provide the support the skin needs for long lasting natural feeling results. This is different from temporary dermal fillers that are made of different kinds of natural or synthetic materials that are completely absorbed by the body over time and require repeat injections to maintain wrinkle correction. A skin test is required approximately four (4) weeks prior to treatment, to ensure a patient is not allergic to the collagen in Artefill.

"I thought Artefill was great. I had my nasolabial folds done, and the indentation is definitely smoother and less than it used to be," says Valerie, a long time patient who had Artefill injected over a year ago. "Dr. Lee did a great job not overfilling and made it look natural. It's not like other fillers that you have done every 6 months. I haven't noticed any loss."

The product is only offered by a select group of physicians in California and is not available at all physician offices.  Dr. Lee is one of the few company trained and select few company sponsored physicians who have the skills and experience needed to administer Artefill

Plastic Surgery PR: Like any other cosmetic surgery, a mommy makeover is a medical procedure. Recovery from a mommy makeover is just as important as selecting the right plastic surgeon to perform the procedure itself.

Recovering from your mommy makeover in the right way will prevent you from dealing with excess pain, raised scars, or other unwanted side effects. While your cosmetic surgeon will provide you with all the specific directions you should follow when recovering, some of the thing you can expect after your mommy makeover include:

Bed Rest
For the first few days following the mommy makeover procedure, you will need to stay in bed and relax. Your plastic surgeon will provide you with pain medication to ease any discomfort, but this time is essential for giving the body the strength it needs to appropriately recover from your surgery.

Limited Mobility
After resting for the first few days, you will be able to begin performing some of your regular day-to-day tasks, but your ability to move around will be limited. Many plastic surgeons suggest that you have a friend or loved one help you for the first week or two after your surgery until you can move around comfortably.

Light Exercise
Exercise and light activities are two of the best ways you can recover and assist your body with getting back to living your life like normal. Your doctor will provide you with a list of exercises you can do at home, but activities like walking can improve blood circulation and help you get the most out of your mommy makeover.

Swelling
Swelling is a natural part of recovering from cosmetic surgery, and for many mommy makeover patients, swelling can last quite a while. Immediate results from your mommy makeover will be obvious, but for some patients, it can take up to a few months for your final results to appear.

The recovery process after having mommy makeover may take a while and put you through some discomfort, but the bottom line is that there are many benefits you will experience after having a mommy makeover. Clothes will fit better, you can be more confident in your body, and you will be able to live the life you want.

If you are interested in learning about your mommy makeover and what you can expect after your procedure, please visit the website of Bryan W. Gawley, M.D. Aesthetic & Reconstructive Plastic Surgery in Phoenix, Arizona.

MyCosmeticProcedures.com is a new website focused on plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures. The site seeks to provide medical information to patients who may be considering cosmetic surgery or non-surgical procedures to improve their appearance.

MyCosmeticProcedures.com serves as a resource for those looking to find a plastic surgeon or cosmetic dermatologist in their local area.

MyCosmeticprocedures.com also serves as a resource for those looking to find a plastic surgeon or cosmetic dermatologist in their local area. Visitors to the Website can use the “Find a Doctor” feature to search and browse nearly 280 listings in cities across 40 U.S. states including Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Atlanta, Houston, Phoenix, Charlotte and others. Users can enter a city or zip code and define a search radius. Once selected, the Website quickly returns a list of providers in that area and displays the results in a Google-powered map.

Visitors can review a listing, see a photo of the doctor, map directions to their offices and contact them via the Website to ask questions or schedule a consultation. The number of plastic surgeon and cosmetic dermatologist listings on the site continues to grow everyday as more and more providers choose to list their practices on the Website.

In January of 2010, MyCosmeticProcedures.com launched a plastic surgery Before and After photo gallery. Visitors can view Before and After photos of patient post-operative results provided by doctors listed in the directory. The Before and After photos gallery can be viewed for facial, breast, or body procedures, and is broken down into procedure-specific albums and provider-specific galleries. The Website’s plastic surgery Before and After photos are presented using a high quality slideshow with a sleek and intuitive user-interface for best viewing.

For plastic surgery questions that may not be answered in an article on the site, MyCosmeticProcedures.com hosts a regular column “Ask the Experts” where visitor questions are answered by a featured plastic surgeon or cosmetic dermatologist from the site’s directory. The Website also contains a Blog featuring insightful articles and news regarding trends and current advances in plastic surgery and cosmetic dermatology. The “Cosmetic Procedures Blog” is available as a syndicated RSS feed. Recent topics include recent advances in laser-assisted liposuction and “Breast Implants 101,” a continuing series discussing breast augmentation implants and the many options available to patients.

The Website plans to continue to grow by expanding content and specialties, increasing listings, and improving functionality as it raises its visibility on the Web through 2010.

MyCosmeticProcedures.com is socially active and can be found on Facebook and Twitter, where the site regularly “Tweets” beauty tips and other information under the name @CosmeticSite.

Cosmetic Surgery PR:  

Cosmetic surgeons combine knowledge, surgical skill, technical expertise and ethics to achieve their goal of providing aesthetic enhancement for their patients.

When choosing a cosmetic surgeon it is important to select a cosmetic surgeon who is board certified. In most states it is legal for any physician who holds a valid medical license, with or without surgical training, to practice cosmetic surgery.

Why is Board Certification Important?

Board certification is important because it makes certain that your cosmetic surgeon has the training, qualifications and experience needed to perform your cosmetic surgical procedure safely and skillfully. A board certified cosmetic surgeon has greater insight into your needs, has knowledge of state-of-the-art techniques and the surgical skill and judgment to recommend and perform the cosmetic surgical procedure that will enhance your appearance effectively and safely.

What Does it Take to Become Board Certified?

In order for a surgeon to become board certified they must go through a long demanding process that takes years to complete. The following training is required before a surgeon can be board certified:

- Four years of medical school
- One year of internship in General Surgery
- Three or more years residency in General Surgery
- Two to three years residency in Plastic Surgery
- Additional fellowships recommended but not required

The number of people seeking cosmetic surgery has increased dramatically over the years and more and more doctors are offering cosmetic surgery to their patients, so it is important you obtain accurate information regarding cosmetic surgery and the doctors who perform it. You should be aware of your doctor's education, training, experience and competence with the cosmetic surgical procedure you are contemplating.

Your cosmetic surgeon should be board certified with the American Board of Plastic Surgery and hold memberships in the American Society of Plastic Surgeons or the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons.

If you live in the Denver, Colorado area and are contemplating cosmetic surgery, please visit the website of board certified cosmetic surgeon Dr. Nick Slenkovich at the Colorado Plastic Surgery Center today to schedule a confidential consultation to address your cosmetic surgery needs with the dedicated and caring staff and learn how you can benefit from a safe and effective cosmetic surgery procedure.

Cosmetic Surgery Public Relations: While Botox has long been the only available means of banishing facial wrinkles, Dr. Stephen T. Greenberg, a prominent cosmetic plastic surgeon in Manhattan, recently introduced into his practice a new, state-of-the-art technique called Dysport.  Dysport, which has been used around the world for nearly twenty years, may be better than Botox for two important reasons: it shows results faster and it provides a more natural-looking appearance.

The baby boomer generation may be well into their 50s and 60s, but that doesn't mean they're ready to concede their looks just yet. In fact, many "boomers" are determined to maintain their once-youthful appearance.

According to a recent survey by the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, anti-aging procedures such as facelifts and blepharoplasty (eyelid lifts) are on the rise. So are botox and fillers. The bottom line is that baby boomers are aging but they don't want their looks to do the same.

"The baby boomers are getting older but they still feel young and they want to look that way too," said AACS President Mark Berman, MD. "With anti-aging procedures, people tend to feel much better about themselves afterward."

Facelifts rose 44 percent from 2008 to 2009 in procedures by AACS members, totaling 34,455 in '09. Blepharoplasty procedures went up 42 percent, from 42,602 to 60,507. Similarly, non-invasive anti-aging procedures such as Botox (up 157 percent) and fillers (up 245 percent) rose exponentially.

In procedures performed by AACS members, the average age of facelift patients is 54.1 years. The average age for blepharoplasty is 52.3 years. In addition, the average age of patients receiving Botox is 46.6 and fillers is 46.8.

"I think this might come as a surprise to the public when they see just how many baby boomers are trying to slow down the aging process," Berman said. "As a surgeon, these numbers aren't surprising because we see older patients all the time."

The American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery is a professional medical society whose members are dedicated to patient safety and physician education in cosmetic surgery. Most members of the AACS are dermatologic surgeons, facial plastic surgeons, head and neck surgeons, general surgeons, oral and maxillofacial surgeons, plastic surgeons – all of whom specialize in cosmetic surgery. AACS is an organization that represents all cosmetic surgeons in the American Medical Association through its seat in the AMA House of Delegates.

The science of skin care keeps improving, offering newer ways to restore radiance and volume to aging skin.

"As we age, there is both a dramatic loss and redistribution of essential elements in the skin, including collagen, hyaluronic acid and even fat," said Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank, a New York City−based dermatologist. "These changes lead to deflated and hanging tissue, much like a well-filled balloon that loses air over time.

"People have sought injections to return the volume needed for a youthful look and counteract this mid-face sink," said Frank. "Inspired by these trends, GoodSkin Labs created Filextra, a simple and powerful facial cream that helps plump, hydrate and revolumize skin's appearance."

For more information, visit GoodSkin Labs at www.goodskinlabs.com.

Suneva Medical, a privately-held aesthetic medical device company, announced recently that Steven R. Cohen, M.D., F.A.C.S, Clinical Professor, University of California, San Diego and John H. Joseph, M.D., F.A.C.S, Assistant Clinical Professor, UCLA, presented interim results from the prospective, open-label, five-year safety study on Artefill for nasolabial fold (NLF) correction. The oral presentations took place at the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery's Aesthetic Meeting 2010 in Washington, D.C. and the American Academy of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery's International Symposium in Hollywood, FL, respectively.

The saying goes, "like mother like daughter" and this has become even more evident in the emerging beauty trend of mothers and daughters opting to get cosmetic surgery procedures together. Something as simple as a little Botox to more in depth procedures like rhinoplasty and face lifts are quickly becoming the procedures done as a family than alone. And while mother-daughter duos are currently the trend, it wasn't long ago that cosmetic enhancement enthusiasts started hosting Botox parties at medspas to share in the experience together.

Sound Surgical Technologies, innovators of ultrasonic body contouring technologies and procedures, announced the launch of the new VASER Lipo System today.  The original VASER System was designed to provide patients with smooth, predictable results and fast recovery, while also allowing physicians to perform a wide array of body contouring applications.

Now, the new VASER System has been re-engineered to improve the overall experience for physicians and provide even greater versatility for body contouring procedures.  The ultrasonic energy has been specifically tuned to break apart fatty deposits, while preserving important connective tissue and maintaining fat cell viability.

"The original VASER System was designed to provide patients with a safe and gentle liposuction experience with consistently predictable results.  The highly selective nature of ultrasound energy that provides an improved

Renowned surgeons and aesthetic practitioners from around the world will be gathering to share and discuss the latest techniques and technologies in cosmetic surgery and dermatology at The 6th Annual Facial Cosmetic Surgery International Multi-Specialty Symposium in Las Vegas, July 14-18.  For the first time, Beverly Hills Facial Plastic Surgeon Payman Simoni, MD, FACS, will be revealing the highly specialized techniques he has perfected with his highly publicized Simoni Lift™.  

The Simoni Lift is a minimally invasive yet fully comprehensive face lift surgery that is performed in 60 to 90 minutes with no general anesthesia. The patient is wide awake during the procedure which allows them to sit up in an inclined position. This allows Dr. Simoni to observe the ways gravity naturally affect patients faces during surgery, providing for a more natural result that doesn't look pulled. Additional benefits of eliminating general anesthesia from the facelift procedure include, shorter recovery time, less bruising and swelling, and reduced health risks that are sometimes associated with the use of anesthesia.

Local anesthesia is used to numb the sides of the patient's face. Using very small incisions around the patient's ears, Dr. Simoni is able to access the facial region to tighten the laxity in the neck, jowls and mid-face region. Scars are completely concealed in a natural line behind the ear. "This is not a lunchtime facelift or even a mini-lift," said Dr. Simoni. "I am able to achieve results that are just as good, if not better than a traditional facelift using these methods."

The upcoming Cosmetic Bootcamp meeting, to be held June 16-19 at The Broadmoor Hotel, is pleased to announce an expanded program that will include live demonstrations and didactic teaching for laser, botulinum toxins, fillers, cosmeceuticals, breast augmentation, laser lipolysis and other topics relevant to cosmetic surgeons and dermatologists.

Program Chair Dr. Mary Lupo says, "This year's meeting will host more than 200 people and will include several audience response sessions and sessions that will engage physicians in a lively debate regarding best practices."  Although the meeting is limited to physicians that are specialists in the fields of dermatology, plastic surgery, head and neck surgery and ophthalmology, it continues to grow and has become the leading cross specialty meeting.  In addition to the main meeting, a separate meeting that includes industry representatives, analysts, investment bankers and key opinion leading physicians is planned with Dr. Vic Narurkar chairing this session.

According to Board Member Kenneth Beer MD, "the meeting strives to maintain a collegial atmosphere where leaders in the specialties can exchange ideas."  

Upcoming Cosmetic Bootcamp University Meetings will bring this experience to physicians in training this Fall in cities across the US.

Plastic Surgery PR: The latest trend in LaserBodySculpting, Smartlipo TRIPLEX, is being adopted by doctors throughout the country. Dr. Sterry is now performing this revolutionary type of Smartlipo in NYC for discerning patients. Smartlipo TriPlex has been getting rave reviews from many doctors and patients, including Dr. Sterry's patients who've gotten Smartlipo in New York.  

The Smartlipo TriPlex LaserBodySculpting Workstation is ideal for treating small areas, especially for patients who have localized fat deposits but very lax overlying skin, which would have been made worse by traditional liposuction. In addition to melting the fat, the blended wavelengths of TriPlex technology coagulate and tighten the tissue and induce collagen production.

Despite strict diets and religious exercise, many people just cannot eliminate localized areas of fat, such as around the abdomen or on the upper regions of the arms. With this new laser lipolysis system from Cynosure, along with the skills of a qualified and caring surgeon, Smartlipo New York patients can achieve results they never thought possible.