After you’ve invested in a Breast Lift or Breast Augmentation, you will want to keep those results that you love… for as long as possible.

While these procedures can drastically turn back the clock to completely rejuvenate your breasts and your overall aesthetic appearance, age and gravity will want to rear their ugly heads again. You cannot defy them over a lifetime since your breasts will still go through natural changes, but you can have long lasting results to keep your ladies perky as long as possible. Here are some tips to help you do just that:

The Season for Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Has Ended
The changes that happen to a women’s body during pregnancy and breastfeeding are drastic. Changes are due to weight gain, hormonal fluctuations, and the completely sacrificial nature of caring for little human beings. These factors can alter the size, shape and position of breasts and areola, so it is best to complete these life milestones before any breast surgeries.

Care for Your Skin
Most women are conscious of taking care of the skin on their face, but you can help the elasticity of your skin everywhere. While genetics play a factor, you can do your best effort to help them by moisturizing, taking supplements such as vitamins E and C, and limiting sun exposure. Eating healthy fats, such as in avocados and salmon, help the whole body, including the skin.

Support Your Ladies
For some women, not wearing a bra is just not an option since they just don’t like the feeling of their breasts resting on their torso. Regardless, the support provided by a bra helps the skin not to stretch and sag, especially important when exercising.

Maintain Your Healthy Weight
Try to be at your ideal weight when you choose to improve the aesthetic of your breasts. Weight loss or gain will alter your results. A healthy diet helps maintain weight, but also supports healthy skin.

Surgery Technique Matters
A Breast Lift that reconstructs the skin as well as breast tissue within is more likely to have longer lasting results. This way support will be provided inside and out.

The technical and artistic knowledge of the surgeon really contributes to the satisfaction with your breast surgery results now and over time. This is why it’s important to choose someone like myself who is triple board certified and has an outstanding reputation in my field and among my patients. To discuss how a Breast Augmentation or Lift can give you breasts you desire now and for the future, set up a consultation at www.davinciplastic.com.

Steven Davison M.D.
Board Certified Plastic/Reconstructive Surgeon

Spring Break is nearly here and that’s the time many of my clients decide to “take a break” and freshen up with cosmetic procedures that slow down the appearance of aging and enhance youthfulness.  It’s a great time to schedule for surgery because you’ll have time  to recover without taking time off work or from college.

Here’s a list of the most popular Springtime procedures our clients request:

Breast Augmentation – you’ll be back to normal activities in about a week.

Liposuction – to sculpt the abdomen, hips, thighs or all three at once – this means 2 weeks out – but still a good time since you’re only taking 1 week away from your normal routine…Spring Break gets you thru week one.

Facial cosmetic options – Lip Augmentation,dermal fillers, Botox, Kybella and others are in great demand now.  These have little to no recovery time…or very short recovery in some cases.

Tummy Tuck – this involves removing excess, loose skin and fat as well tightening and strengthening the ab muscles.  This requires about 2 weeks of at-home rest but the results are so worth it.

Whatever your goals and desires may be, we are here to help you achieve them.  Turning back the clock is most effective when starting with the early signs of aging and then planning regular age reversing cosmetic options.  The key again, is to start early and then maintain in order to look and feel more youthful no matter what stage in life you’re in or what your age may be.

Happy Spring!

Steven Davison M.D.

Board Certified Plastic/Reconstructive Surgeon

No matter how smooth, firm and wrinkle free someone’s face is – a drooping, weathered and wrinkled neck can take away from any youthful appearance. So unless you want to be wearing a turtle neck or scarf year round, take care of your neck.

If you’re already seeing  signs of aging,  don’t worry – I can help. There are a variety of ways to rejuvenate the neck and take years off your overall aging appearance.

Why Rejuvenate the Neck… Although it’s technically not part of the face, having a smooth, trim neck profile can dramatically restore an overall natural and youthful appearance. A youthful neck contour not only makes the patient appear younger, but also elegant and refined. The neck also can have a significant aging (or anti aging) effect on the profile.

How the Neck Ages… Understanding the underlying muscles of the neck and how they are affected by the aging process will help you understand why the neck ages and how. The platysma muscle is immediately under the skin of the neck. In our youth, it is tight and meets in the middle of the neck under the chin. You can easily see this muscle in the mirror when you clench your teeth and tighten your jaw. As we age, the right and left sides of the platysma muscle come apart, which creates the look of vertical bands in the neck. Also, as the skin loses elasticity with age, the lower part of the face and neck show the effects most dramatically. This results in sagging, drooping jowel and waddle under the chin.
Reverse Aging of the Neck… I have extensive study and experience in face and neck rejuvenation.  They are my specialty. The most effective surgical options for rejuvenating the neck are liposuction, cervicoplasty and the neck lift, technically called a platysmaplasty …which is named after the muscle in the neck that the surgery corrects.

Liposuction: Generally speaking, my younger clients who want more definition between their jawline and neck  and who still have good skin elasticity and strong muscles are good candidates for liposuction.
Cervicoplasty: This procedure is geared towards people only concerned with the double chin or excess neck waddle.
Platysmaplasty: A neck lift deals with more midline neck correction of muscles to improve the chin and neck, and the removal of extra skin and fat.

Without a doubt, the neck is a major contributor to an overall youthful  appearance. The aesthetics of a defined jawline and long flat neck is apparent in every magazine and on every movie screen. I will get into more details on each aspect of surgical rejuvenation of the neck in next week’s blog.

In the hands of a specialist like myself, these surgeries for the removal of fat and excess skin, and tightening of the muscles, are sure to result in an attractive neck contour and rejuvenated appearance.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation, www.davinciplastic.com.

Steven Davison M.D.

The Cold, dry weather during winter months can really cause irritation, discomfort… and can age the skin if proper care isn’t taken. You invest in your skin with cosmetic surgery and non invasive procedures, so it is important to take extra care of your skin, when the weather is extreme, to help those age defying effects last. The following tips can help:

Conserve Moisture
There are many habits that can strip out the moisture from your skin. This dryness can be painful, itchy and contributes to skin-aging by stripping moisture. Work on replenishing lost moisture using these few simple steps:

AVOID
1) Taking hot showers or baths because this removes the natural lubrication and oil on the skin. Yes, hot showers feel good after coming in from the cold…but try to keep showers short and not too hot.
2)  Cleansers and toners, often contain harsh ingredients that strips your skin of natural oil. Real sudsy cleansers usually have a surfactant like sodium laurel sulfate – and the acetone in many toners can be too harsh along with already dry conditions. DO – Use mild cream or gel cleansers and toner with no alcohol this time of year.
3)  Sipping hot coffee and tea is so comforting when it’s cold out, but beware the dehydrating effects they can have. Most people only think to drink lots of water when they’re sweating and hot, but cold, windy air can can be just as dehydrating for your skin. So, drink lots of pure water everyday!

Moisture Reinforcement
Avoid certain drying habits, and be on the offense to add the extra help your skin needs this time of year.

Here are some ways to add moisture to your skin:
– Running the heat in a home strips the air of any moisture – counter this by adding a little water vapor back to your home’s air with a humidifier.
– Diligently use moisturizer morning and night. Never miss moisturizing your face and hands since they’re exposed to the elements the most, but don’t neglect the rest of your body.
– Exfoliate gently to remove the dull dead skin that builds up

– moisturize that fresh new skin to keep it healthy and glowing.
– Continue using sunscreen. Snow can actually reflect up to 80 percent UV rays. you can skill get a sunburn in the winter.
– Eat foods that encourage your skin to retain and build healthy moisture – e.g. rich in essential fatty acids like salmon and  “healthy fats” found in avocados and coconut oil.

– Use medical grade SkinMedica, to effectively address many skin issues  Stop by our office or visit our website www.davinciplastic.com to learn more.

Steven Davison M.D.

Board Certified Plastic/Reconstructive Surgeon

There will be lots of picture taking at lots of social events and they will most likely end up on “social media.”  So….we all want to put our “best face forward” for those poses.  I offer a brief, few tips for great photos:

1. The Perfect Pout – this requires bright pearly white teeth and “plush lips.”  Juvederm is the most popular way to get that perfect pout with well shaped, lush lips.  Let’s talk soon!
2. Eyes Youthful and Bright… You’ve heard it said that you should smile with your eyes.  And if you’ve got some crow’s feet and forehead wrinkles, you can take years off your eyes with a little BOTOX.
3. Your forehead is part of your “T zone” and can often look shiny in pictures. Remember to always apply a light dusting of translucent powder to keep away the shine.
4. Do Away with the Double Chin…
One of the most common picture blunders.
   Use injectables like VOLUMA to restore volume and contour to the chin area.
5. You can also trick the camera into slimming down your face …  slightly tilt your head down and angle your chin out just a little bit. This gives the perception of a sharper jaw line and higher cheekbones.

6.  The Three “P’s” of Pictures: Position, Posture and Pose…
Position yourself in the middle of a group photo. The people on the end always look bigger.
Good posture makes you look thinner and your stomach flatter. Simply stand up straight, lengthen your neck, roll your shoulders back, and lift up your chest. Pose in a natural, slimming position by resting your weight on one leg. Rest your hand on the hip with shoulder and elbow pointed back or allow your hands to fall naturally at your side while slightly lifting your elbow back and away from your body.

Looking forward to an outstanding 2017….Best Wishes to You and Yours!

Steven Davison  M.D.

Good Bye 2016… Hello Hottest Rejuvenating Trends in 2017

The New Year will be upon us in just a couple of days.  So, Happy New Year….2017.

I’m constantly being asked this time of year….what’s new…what will be the latest greatest in 2017?  So here is a brief look at the hottest trends…some are old but still in high demand…others are new and worth a good look at.

Breast implants and liposuction are on top of the list as “the most requested procedures.”  A few trendy treatments becomes popular in 2016 and will gather more momentum in 2017.

Brazilian Butt Lift has increased in demand as more women want curvaceous figures and need help with the buttocks!

Vectra Breast Imaging allows women to design a breast outcome that suits them best.  Vectra has quickly become in high demand among our clientele.

Vaser Lipo Suction uses tiny incisions to allow for fat removal after it has been broken up.  Liposuction has comes a long, long way!.

Our culture shapes the desires for “what is beautiful”… and technology makes these dreams a reality through innovation and affordability.  Here we go:

Non Surgical Fat Removal
Kybella was introduced in 2015 and gained a momentous following. As word has spread about the benefits of Kybella, 2017 is going to be an even bigger year for this non surgical – fat reducing procedure. Who wouldn’t want to melt away a double chin  without the downtime or discomfort of surgery? Less invasive procedures will continue trending which makes Kybella appealing.

Injectables for Millennials
No downtime and minimal recovery with injectables is also enticing scores of millennials into the world of cosmetic treatments. Millennials are a very busy population – with full social calendars … so making time for surgery and recovery is a real challenge. Also, Millennials grew up in the dawn and dominance of social media. It’s no wonder that media like Facebook and Instagram spur on more and more of an image conscious population. With their image sent out to hundreds of people on a daily basis, they have to make sure they look good.

Millennials are including injectables, like Botox and Juvederm, in their age prevention and health care regimen. So, while prevention is very good, know that it is just as important to only trust your face to an experienced, knowledgeable practitioner. Injectables, if not done correctly, can give an over “done” appearance… which can make you look older. The overdone look of over filled lips or paralyzed forehead (e.g. for someone in their 20s or 30s) can cause distortion or the perception of an aged face….defeating your goal of trying to look younger.

Rise in FemGen
The sexual revolution of plastic surgery includes an increased female interest in Labiaplasty surgeries to improve aesthetics, comfort and sexual pleasure.  It  can minimize stretched, imbalanced or interferingly large labia… increasing comfort and pleasure during sex, eliminates embarrassment/ discomfort from tight workout clothes or bathing suits.  These changes come from aging, childbearing years and genetics.

More Men
It’s definitely become obvious that most men aren’t embarrassed today about getting cosmetic procedures either. They see  plastic surgery and non invasive cosmetic treatments as part of their regular health care routine and to keep their competitive edge in the work place. Brotox means that a tired or gruff appearance can be shaped into a more pleasant, happy, rested look, and is often done in our office during a lunch break. No missed work, no major change, just a tweak to improve confidence and perception that can pay dividends in work performance, self confidence…and simply because more and more men today want to stay younger and healthier looking as long as possible!

These treatments can help you reach your goals for looking and feeling great about yourself during 2017. If you’d like to take advantage of any of these rejuvenation trends, schedule a consultation at www.davinciplastic.com.

Steven Davison M.D.

Board Certified Plastic/Reconstructive Surgeon

We are truly partners in your anti aging goals. While I can provide wonderful youth restoring results with plastic surgery and injectables, you need to take measures to protect and preserve your skin. Taking care of your skin will help you to have the best and longest lasting results from your procedures. Proper skin care strengthens the skin and slows down the signs of aging in between treatments.

Here are a few of the ways to maintain healthy skin:

• don’t smoke
• manage stress
• drink lots of water
• always use sunscreen
• eat healthful, antioxidant rich foods
• use high quality, science based skincare every day

PROTECTING SKIN WITH SKINCARE
It is crucial to take care of your skin in between treatments. With all of the environmental threats to your skin, you need to use some of the most cutting edge, scientifically based skin care to help protect and preserve your skin. SkinMedica is the brand I recommend and offer through my office.

WHY SKINMEDICA?
Advanced formulas with decades of scientific research and proven results behind them.
Many formulas contain the unique, patented complexes:
*APS Corrective Complex – a patented mixture of antioxidants, peptides and other innovative ingredients that synergistically improve the overall appearance of skin.
*TNS Recovery Complex – formulated from naturally occurring growth factors, antioxidants, soluble collagen, cytokines and matrix proteins (93.6% concentration.

*Does not conduct product testing on animals.*

CHOOSING THE RIGHT PRODUCTS
With all the skincare products on the market, it can be hard to know what you need. Who better to help you than a physician like myself? If I’ve performed any procedure on you, we’ve had a consultation. Because of this, I have a knowledge of your health, your anti aging goals and the condition of your skin, therefore I can make a “tailored” recommendation just for you.

These are some of my favorite SkinMedica products:

1. TNS Essential Serum … offers multi functional performance to lighten, tighten, and brighten skin. This all in one formula has clinical studies that demonstrate improvements to the appearance of skin tone, texture, coloration, fine lines and wrinkles. It combines SkinMedica’s renowned growth factor formula, TNS Recovery Complex and APS Corrective Complex.
2. TNS Eye Repair … provides both prevention and improvement to wrinkles and puffiness around the eyes. This product contains TNS, chelating agents, light diffusers, as well as vitamins C and E.
3.  Rejuvenative Moisturizer … hydrates and improves fine lines. It protects against free radical damage and keeps skin soft and supple with Hyaluronic Acid, vitamins C, E, and Retinyl Palmitate.

4.  Retinol Complex 0.5% … deep wrinkle treatment regenerates skin to diminish the appearance of fine lines. Retinol should be a part of most everyone’s skincare routine.
5. Lytera … addresses pigmentation, redness and dull skin. Look for a brighter more even skin tone in 4 weeks.
6. Vitamin C&E Complex … offers powerful protection against free radical damage and helps improve skin tone.
To learn more about which SkinMedica products would be best for you, schedule a consultation at www.davinciplastic.com.

Steven Davison M.D.

Board Certified Plastic/Reconstructive Surgeon

The past year was filled with nude lips and scaled back lashes. The no make up look reigned supreme in 2015. But makeup lovers will be excited for 2016, as the trends have changed and the nude make up look is out. Bright bold red and sultry deep colored lips are en vogue. Create a flirty feminine look with bronze highlights to your cheeks and feminine pinks or peaches for the eyes.

Lovely Full Lips
More attention than ever will be brought to your lips this year. If you’re going to be on trend with the bright candy apple reds and sultry plum hues, you’ll want to make sure you’ve got full, luscious lips to show off. We can help you with Juvederm injections to proportionately plump and femininely fill your lips. These bright colors aren’t forgiving if you’ve over filled your lips, so go with clean lines and an expert injector, like myself, who knows how to create the perfect lips for a harmonious face.

Bronze Goddess
A bronze glow looks healthy and youthful. This bronzer trend can save your skin from sun damage. Use bronzer to get that sun kissed look instead of worshipping the sun, which results in sun spots and an older looking complexion. Also, you can give your cheeks a little help with a liquid facelift. Voluma expertly injected into the cheeks replaces lost volume so your cheek color and contour pops even more. It also results in a slight lift to the mid to lower face that can result in lightening the nasolabial folds and smile parenthesis lines.

Bright Eyes
In the spring you’ll be seeing lots of sunset hues of pink and peach. These flirty and feminine colors complement many skin tones and eye colors. You’ll also see bright blue eye shadows, liners and even mascaras that are playful and certainly can make a statement. If you’re attracting attention to your eyes with bold blues, you’ll want to be sure to smooth out crows feet. Since these wrinkles are cause by muscle movement, it’s best to first relax the muscles with Botox. Then if you want an even greater smoothing out of this area, you can add filler, such as Juvederm.

Makeup as Skincare
While you can’t replace good skincare, such as moisturizers, retinol and other powerful antioxidants, with makeup, I do encourage women to look at makeup as part of their skincare. Throughout the day, before it comes off at bedtime every night, it should be adding to the health of your skin, not taking away from it. This is why I recommend the Jane Iredale makeup line, especially to any of my patients who want to cover bruising or redness after procedures. Here are some highlights of this outstanding cosmetics line:
-uses the highest quality ingredients available to ensure satisfaction with performance, coverage, application and texture
-high performance mineral based formulas that don’t run, crease or smear
non comedogenic…does not block pores

-earned the Skin Cancer Foundation Seal of Recommendation, showing evidence that its products sufficiently and safely aid in the prevention of sun damage to the skin
-products are clinically and dermatologist tested for safety and allergies
-includes anti irritant, soothing ingredients to contribute to skin health
-uses a combination of natural preservatives, never parabens
-product guaranteed to be 100 percent free of animal testing
-no measurable amount of heavy metals in any product including lead and mercury

Being on trend with make up is great, but looking young and healthy is timeless. To schedule a consultation on how we can help you look your best in 2016, visit www.davinciplastic.com.

Steven Davison M.D.

Board Certified Plastic/Reconstructive Surgeon

Happy New Year! While breast implants and liposuction are steadily on top of the list for most requested procedures, some trendy treatments gained in popularity during 2015 and are sure to grow more in 2016. Our culture helps to shape the desires for what is considered beautiful… and technology is offering more innovative options than ever.  These are the trends to look for in 2016:

Non Surgical Fat Removal
Kybella was introduced to the mainstream in 2015 and immediately gained a momentous following. As word has spread about the benefits of Kybella, 2016 is going to be an even bigger year for this non surgical fat reducing procedure. Who wouldn’t want to melt the double chin away without having the downtime or discomfort of surgery? Less invasive procedures will continue trending in 2016 making Kybella a winner.

Injectables for Millennials
No downtime, minimal recovery injectables steadily entice millennials into the world of cosmetic treatments. Millennials are very busy with full social calendars … so making time for surgery/recovery is challenging. Millennials grew up during the dawn and dominance of social media. It’s no wonder that Facebook and Instagram spur on more and more of an image conscious population. With their image sent out to hundreds of people everyday… they, simply put, want to look good.

Millennials are including injectables, like Botox and Juvederm, in their anti aging, routine health care regimen. So, while prevention is very good, know that it is just as important to only trust your face to an experienced, knowledgeable practitioner. Injectables, if not done correctly, can give an over “done” appearance… making you look older. This overdone look, such as over filled lips or paralyzed forehead (e.g. for someone in their 20s or 30s) can cause distortion or the perception of an aged face thus defeating your goal of trying to look younger.

Rise in the FemGen Rejuvenation Trend
The sexual revolution of plastic surgery includes an increased interest in surgeries to improve aesthetics, comfort and sexual pleasure of the female genitalia. Growing in popularity is Labiaplasty, which can minimize stretched, imbalanced or interferingly large labia. This can increase comfort and pleasure during sex, as well as eliminate embarrassment or discomfort when wearing tight workout clothes or bathing suits. Commonly desired after the changes that come from aging and the childbearing years, genetics also plays a part in the appearance and function of the FemGen area. While the topic is still a sensitive one, ( to be handled with care and confidentiality), fortunately, there’s no embarrassment these days about the surgeries that can help you feel confident about what you look like “down there.”

With A steady increase in male clientele, it’s definitely safe to say that most men aren’t feeling embarrassed about getting cosmetic procedures either. They’re viewing plastic surgery and non invasive cosmetic treatments as a normal way to keep their competitive edge in the work place. The rise of Brotox means that a tired or gruff appearance can be shaped into a more pleasant, happy, rested look, and is often done in our office during a lunch break. No missed work, no major change, just a tweak to improve confidence and perception that can pay dividends in work performance, self confidence…and simply because more men today want to stay younger and healthier looking as long as possible!

These treatments can help you reach your goals for looking and feeling great about yourself during 2016. If you’d like to take advantage of any of these rejuvenation trends, schedule a consultation at www.davinciplastic.com.

Steven Davison M.D.

Board Certified Plastic/Reconstructive Surgeon

The season is here for sweaters and scarves. This is the perfect time of year for neck rejuvenation… since it’s easy to comfortably cover and conceal. This is why I recommend that my patients, who want to get rid of their double chin, schedule KYBELLA treatments… especially during the fall and winter months… even during the holidays, since there’s no downtime.

What is KYBELLA?
KYBELLA is a deoxycholic acid injection that is the first and only FDA approved injectable treatment to melt away the fat under the chin. It noticeably contours and minimizes the appearance of the “double chin” without surgery. Since it is just a series of injections, it doesn’t require any incisions, bandages or the downtime associated with surgery, so you don’t have to miss any holiday festivities.

Why would someone get KYBELLA?
According to a 2015 survey conducted by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS), 67% of people said they’re bothered by fullness under the chin or the appearance of a double chin. This occurs in men and women due to many factors, such as aging, weight gain and genetics. It is a stubborn area to treat naturally because often, no matter how much someone works out or changes their diet, the double chin remains.

After a full KYBELLA treatment, 79% of patients were satisfied with the appearance of their face and chin. These are great results to achieve without surgery, especially since the outcome is long lasting and recurrence is not expected. After treatment on 1,600 patients, most people reported feeling happier and younger with their new KYBELLA chin profile.
How does it work?
KYBELLA contains deoxycholic acid, which is a molecule that naturally occurs in the body. The natural function of this acid in the body is to help the body break down and absorb dietary fat.
 When used in the form of KYBELLA via injection into the fat beneath the chin, it destroys fat cells in the immediate area. Those cells will no longer be able to store or accumulate fat.
 As the fat seems to melt away, the bulge from double chin retreats.

What does a KYBELLA treatment involve?
A successful KYBELLA treatment will include multiple treatments. Most patients need 2 to 4 sessions. This will be determined by a personalized plan during your consultation. In each session, multiple injections will be strategically made under the chin area. Any temporary swelling or bruising can easily be covered by Jane Iredale mineral makeup and your pretty scarves and turtleneck sweaters typically worn this time of year. Thus, the reason Kybella treatments are so popular this time of year. It’s the perfect time to get them done and have your youthful, contoured chin for the Holidays.

If you’re ready to refine your chin… to feel less self conscious about your double chin…and more confident with a sleek profile, schedule your KYBELLA consultation with me at www.davinciplastic.com. Take advantage of the benefits of a cold weather wardrobe to refine your profile with KYBELLA, the non surgical way to love the contour of your neck and chin.

Steven Davison M.D.

Board Certified Plastic/Reconstructive Surgeon

MYTH #1 Botox will make you look like you’ve had work done
Fortunately, Botox doesn’t have to result in a paralyzed face stuck on one emotion like Batman’s nemesis, the Joker. It’s muscle relaxing abilities can result in subtle, smooth skin that can still express emotions. It’s especially great for targeting the moderate to severe lines around your eyes and between your brows. If you’re trusting your face to an experienced, knowledgeable Plastic Surgeon like myself or my Physician’s Assistant, then you don’t have to worry about looking “worked” on.
MYTH#2 Botox and Dermal Fillers do the same thing
While they both lessen the appearance of wrinkles and restore youthful appearance, Botox and Dermal Fillers don’t work the same way. Botox addresses the muscles that create wrinkles and relaxes them. Dermal Fillers restore a youthful, plump look by adding volume to facial tissue. They both have their unique areas of the face that they are meant to address. For example, Botox is not approved for use in lips, but the hyaluronic filler Juvederm is. Dermal Fillers aren’t the best at treating crow’s feet or forehead frown line, but Botox is.

MYTH #3 Botox is only for women
While men may enjoy the distinguished look of maturity that comes with aging, there are certain features that as they age, they give the face a tired or angry appearance. This doesn’t communicate well in a personal or professional setting. As a result, there is much more acceptance of cosmetic procedures for men, especially as part of a health regimen. The nickname “Brotox” was coined for a reason: current statistics on Botox customers show that 1 in 10 are men!

MYTH #4 Botox injections are toxic to the body
Botox is one of the most widely studied and researched medical aesthetic products available today. Botox is designed to have a very localized effect of about a centimeter diameter and doesn’t spread to other areas of the body. It is completely safe when used in correct doses and in the hands of a trained, experienced injector. It is made from compounds found in nature, and not a synthetic, dangerous material as some people think. In 2002, it was the first FDA approved product for frown lines and in 2013, it became the first and only FDA approved product for crow’s feet.

MYTH #5 Botox Injections are Painful
Botox is known as the “lunchtime injection” for a reason. Treatment takes about 10 minutes and it has very little to no downtime, which is great because it can work with busy schedules. There could be minor redness or swelling at the injection site, but that quickly subsides so that you can experience the youth restoring benefits within the time span of a lunch break.

So did any of these answers bust any Botox myths you previously believed? If you’re ready turn turn back time with Botox, you can schedule a consultation at www.davinciplastic.com. Or if you’re interested in Botox, but have some more myths or questions you’d like answered, stay tuned for next week’s blog: Common Myths about Botox, part 2.
Steven Davison M.D.

Board Certified Plastic/Reconstructive Surgeon

Most people are in a battle against fat, but fat can be your friend. I find that it is one of the best fillers for plumping areas that are sunken, hollow or flat. Using the body’s own fat by taking it from a place where it’s unwanted and putting it somewhere that needs it reaps a double benefit.

Fat as We Age… Isn’t it ironic that as we age, we often lose fat in the wrong places and gain it in unwanted areas. As a child, we have that “baby face” that includes round full cheeks, but as early as mid to late 20s the fat in the cheeks that keeps it full and firm already starts to degrade even though the narrowing of the face usually doesn’t appear until the 30s. In the 40s, fat loss usually shows itself as drooping in the midface that causes nasolabial folds and jowls. The face shape continues to change in the 50s and beyond as fat is affected by gravity and age.

Fat Vs. Other Fillers… Fat grafting is a very effective way to retain a youthful face by restoring facial contour and fullness. Compared to other fillers, fat produces longer lasting results. Additionally, it’s completely natural since it’s using your own excess body fat – that is refined, purified and relocated. This means that there isn’t the risk of an adverse reaction or allergy as with other injectables.

What Can Fat Grafting Do? Although one of the most common areas to treat with fat grafting are the creased, sunken parts of the face, it can be used to contour many areas of the body. It can enhance areas such as hands, breasts and buttocks. One of the more popular procedures recently is the Brazillian Butt Lift. I actually prefer to use fat grafting for this rather than implants, as long as there’s enough fat to take from another area of the body. I’ve also used it to successfully revise and minimize the appearance of scars, or other bodily depressions.

How Does It Work? Fat grafting involves the transfer of fat from areas that have some to spare, such as the outer thighs (saddle bags), refining it, and then injecting it into areas that need volume. It is very safe and provides long lasting results. It has minimal downtime and recovery, similar to other injectable treatments.

In Good Hands… Working with fat for grafting requires a lot of skill to extract and reinject it without lumps or sagging. I offer this safe procedure to many people every year…with great results. I know how to work with this natural filling component to create a lasting, natural look and feel. To schedule your consultation, visit www.davinciplastic.com.
Steven Davison M.D.

Board Certified Plastic/Reconstructive Surgeon