Just What She Really Wants for Valentine’s Day …

With Valentine’s Day one week away, gift shopping is in full swing. But if you want to get one of the most desired gifts, you don’t need to brave the malls. Simply come in to DaVinci Plastic Surgery to get a gift certificate for your ‘someone special’ because surveys say that 78% of women would “be impressed” if they received this for a Valentine’s Day gift. And what are they most likely to get? Most certificates are in the price range that is perfect for Botox or dermal fillers.

BOTOX OVER CHOCOLATES AND FLOWERS… There are certain women who’d be offended by the gift, but you can be sure that your lady would love the gift if she is:

• already a regular consumer of injectables
• has asked for treatments as gifts for other holidays
• had one treatment of Botox or filler and expressed happiness with the results
• ever mentioned that she’s considered getting injectable treatments to address her aging concerns

WHY WOMEN WANT INJECTABLES AS GIFTS… Injectables such as BOTOX, JUVEDERM, VOLUMA, SCULPTRA and RADIESSE can directly affect the confidence and satisfaction one has with their looks. This goes much further than that designer purse or shoes. Every time they look in the mirror they’ll see the rejuvenated face and think of you in appreciation.

WHICH INJECTABLES TO CHOOSE… There is a benefit to giving a gift certificate since that eliminates the guess work as to which treatment to choose. Your Valentine’s sweetheart can select from a variety of the effective, safe treatments to address the area that she wants most. Here are some ideas of what they have to choose from:

• BOTOX is perfect to smooth out those two vertical lines between the brows, crow’s feet around the eyes, smoker’s lines above the lips, nose furrows and thick lines in the neck. One treatment achieves noticeable improvement immediately (expect a little swelling at injection sites) that increases for optimal results within 7 to 14 days of treatment. AND – these relaxed lines will last for several months.
• JUVEDERM is a smooth hyaluronic acid filler to instantly smooth out those lines on the side of your nose and mouth.  This is also a popular treatment used to create luscious lips. Juvederm’s natural looking results can last up to a year.
• VOLUMA XC is the only FDA approved filler to instantly add volume to the cheek area. By replacing lost volume, Voluma XC creates a non surgical mini facelift that can rejuvenate the midface and lessen marionette lines around the mouth. Results can last up to 2 years.
• SCULPTRA is the only facial injectable with gradual, subtle results that can last 2 years or longer. It adds youthful volume to the face while stimulating collagen renewal.
• RADIESSE is a semi permanent filler that uses unique, calcium-based microspheres to create scaffolding for your own collagen to grown around.  Long after the Radiesse breaks down, the collagen it encouraged will help keep the face youthful longer.

Take the guesswork out of Valentine’s Day gift giving and get something that your sweetheart would love… a certificate to choose their rejuvenation treatment at DaVinci Plastic Surgery. www.davinciplastic.com

See you soon!

Dr. Davison

Lovely Lips for Lovers on Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is just 2 weeks away and if you’d like to get those luscious lips in time for your hot date, then now is the time to act. Not only will your lips be so kissable, they’ll also help rejuvenate your whole face.

PLUSH POUT CUTS THOSE YEARS OUT… A woman’s full lips are influential in how young other people think she is. Since collagen reduces as we age, lips normally get thinner, so this perception is a reality for most people. But with hyaluronic acid fillers, like Juvederm, you can replenish the fullness of your youthful lips or even add the volume you’ve always wanted but never had.

LADIES LOVE THEIR LIPS… It may be the prevalence of lipstick, lip gloss, lip balm, lip tint and other forms of makeup for the lips, but something about loving their lips makes ladies feel more feminine, sexy and confident. Most women’s desire isn’t for over filled duck lips of years past, but for nicely shaped, soft, naturally gorgeous red lips. 

LIFESTYLE CHOICES THAT YOUR LIPS DON’T LIKE… Are you a lip purser? When you’re thinking, sipping coffee or smoking a cigarette, this puckering motion can exacerbate those fine lines around the mouth. Along with loss of collagen and elastin, this repeated action contributes to lip lines. Lip lines not only age the face dramatically, but cause the annoying “lipstick bleed” where lipstick will creep beyond your normal lip lines. Other causes of lip lines, loss of shape and lip color include:

• Sun damage
• Poor skin care
• Dehydration

LIP ENHANCEMENT WITH HA FILLERS… Volume can easily be restored with hyaluronic acid (HA) injectables, e.g. Juvederm. Juvederm naturally creates fuller, plumper lips because hyaluronic acid attracts water to the area. It has a smooth texture, and is FDA approved for safety, so this is a top pick for lip contouring. Although the change isn’t permanent, it is a safe, natural way to create a perfectly plush pout that can rejuvenate the over all appearance of the face.

GETTING THE RIGHT “LOOK” FOR YOUR LIPS… Lips that look “over filled” can be stiff or bumpy and unnatural. Soft, supple, kissable lips should be in harmony with the whole face. Even small amounts of filler enhance the contours of your natural lip shape. Here are some suggested proportions for a nicely contoured lip:

• slightly fuller center part
• well curved Cupid’s bow
• lower lip about twice the size of the upper lip, rather than the same size

LIPS LIKE EXPERT INJECTORS… Achieving luscious, harmonious lips are best accomplished at the hands of an expert injector. I am a board certified physician, specially trained to perform injectable filler treatments. It is crucial to understand the complex facial anatomy, know which product to use, and know how to create ideal results with fillers, such as Juvederm.

Lip enhancements are one of the most popular Valentine’s Day treatments I perform this time of year. This quick, no down time procedure can give you those luscious lips that you and your significant other will love. Visit www.davinciplastic.com to schedule your appointment today.

Dr. Davison

Just the Right Kind of Curves: Butt Augmentation

The full, curvaceous buttock trend has been growing for years, being brought into the public eye by celebrities such as J Lo, Beyonce, Shakira, and most recently the Kardashians. This has lead to butt augmentations being one of the fastest growing surgeries. The butt augmentation procedure has even been coined to be familiarly called the Brazillian Butt Lift.

NO BUTTS ABOUT IT… The Brazillian Butt Lift means different things to different people. Therefore I strive to use my many years of experience, surgical skill, and understanding of body aesthetics to help each person uniquely achieve the best butt for their body. I also use only the safest techniques that provide the longest lasting results.

SAFEST & MOST EFFECTIVE TECHNIQUE… Using your own excess body fat tissue is one of today’s procedures that is most widely accepted as safe. Also, if fat is taken from the abdomen, hips or thighs then those areas are thinned out, which adds even more emphasis to a newly curvaceous buttock. I believe that it is the ideal way to sculpt the body into that hourglass figure.

BENEFITS OF BRAZILLIAN BUTT LIFT WITH FAT GRAFTING:

• Using your own extra body fat to reshape your buttocks
• Safely augment any buttocks shape or ethnicity
• Smooth, natural texture, look and feel
• Restores a more lifted, fuller, more youthful shape
• Longest lasting results
• Can be combined with implants if ample fat is not available from other areas

FAT GRAFTING VS. IMPLANTS… I believe that the ideal buttock augmentation is from using your own fat. Fat grafting is safer, longer lasting and feels natural. Fat grafting uses only your living fat cells, and when performed with expert precision and technique, the transplanted cells “graft” and live permanently where they are placed. I only use implants if there is no available excess fat or in combination with fat grafting if there isn’t sufficient fat to achieve the complete desired results.

MAKING BUTT AUGMENTATION HAPPEN… Since a buttock augmentation includes liposuction to collect the fat, it is technically two surgeries in one. I use the most delicate liposuction technique to preserve the most amount of living fat cells to for a highly viable fat graft. Using a special cannula, for the liposuction, means that I’m collecting only the ideal sized fat particles. These particles are purified through sterilization and then meticulously injected in… just the right amounts… into specific areas of the buttocks for desired contour, lift and shape.

BOOTY WORTH THE RECOVERY… All surgery is performed in a state-of-the-art surgery center that is fully equipped and certified the same as a hospital setting. Recovery involves a little swelling and tenderness, and you won’t be able to sit on directly on your butt during this time. Once healed, you won’t have any numbness and your buttocks will feel totally natural and normal inside and out. You will be able to exercise and shake your new curves to your heart’s content.

So if you are not happy with the shape of your buttocks, let’s talk about how a Brazilian Butt Lift can help you get the buttocks and curves you want. Visit www.davinciplastic.com to schedule a consultation today.

Dr. Davison

COSMETIC and PLASTIC SURGERY TRENDS FOR 2015 

Some of the hottest procedures of 2014 will continue to grow this year, but there are some new predictions about what will be “in” for 2015. Last year buttock augmentation and neck rejuvenation showed some of the greatest increases. So what is in store for this year? Read on to learn about the trends for 2015.

FROM TOP TO BOTTOM… Increasing over 50% in previous years, the popularity of the buttock augmentation will continue to grow. The safest way to improve shape and volume with a buttocks augmentation is from using your own excess body fat. Fat grafting is rising in popularity, but it’s very important to choose a surgeon such as myself, who understands the art of body sculpting and has the surgical skill to achieve each individual’s desired result.

Also, the neck lift and neck liposuction will continue to grow, as people realize that no matter how smooth and wrinkle free the face is, a droopy neck and jowl is a sure tell tale sign of age. Depending on the specific concern about the neck, there are a variety of techniques to smooth, lift and thin out this area and restore a youthful, elegant neck profile.

MORE FOR MEN… Men aren’t missing out on the opportunities that come from looking young and healthy. They are looking for more kinds of procedures ranging from non invasive to plastic surgery. Gynecomastia (male breast reduction) has risen as have facial procedures. Men tend to prefer “in and out” procedures that don’t keep them from productivity, especially line smoothing injectables like Botox, so much that Botox for men has been nicknamed “Brotox.”

DON’T FORGET ABOUT THE MOMS… After sacrificing their body to grow and nurse the miracle of a baby, moms deserve to feel good about themselves. This has led to an increase in Mommy Makeover procedures to help them return to their pre pregnancy body. Mommy Makeovers can restore confidence, the feeling of body normalcy and beauty. This can mean different things for everyone, but usually includes a combination of procedures like a tummy tuck to tighten the stretched out abdomen muscles, liposuction to address baby weight that just won’t go away, and breast augmentation to create a more harmonious upper body.

FILLING IN THE FACE…The effect of volume loss on an aging face is becoming more and more understood by the general population. Facial contouring to restore volume can make a subtle yet significant difference in the youthful appearance. Fillers like Voluma XC are perfect for cheek augmentation that can provide a slight lift to the entire face, even decreasing the appearance of marionette lines.

LUSCIOUS LIPS… This popular treatment will likely remain a top request for 2015. Although, the trend is changing so that more and more requests are for a natural looking fullness rather than the over filled lumpy lips of years past. This more natural lip look can be achieved with (lip augmentation) involving the judicious injection of hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm.  Do this now to look fabulous for Valentine’s Day.

What will your new look be in this new year? If you’d like to discuss any of these popular procedures for 2015 or another more personalized need, please schedule a consultation with me. Visit www.davinciplastic.com.

Dr. Steven Davison

Tummy Tuck Time

With the coming feasts that are part of Thanksgiving and the December holidays, it’s going to be very hard not to put on an extra few pounds this winter season. Many people are already starting behind the curve by not meeting their summer weight loss goals, and will add more pounds to that over the next 2 months.

If that’s you, there’s no reason to be depressed about it. As long as you’re on the journey towards better health (or plan to start in the new year), there’s a solution to help you get the results you desire. A Tummy Tuck could be just the boost you need to get on the right track for the body you want.

WHO GETS A TUMMY TUCK AND WHY… This is one of the most common procedures. As with most elective surgery, it’s for people with generally good health, but can help most anyone who’s struggled to get rid of belly bulges. It could be from stubborn post pregnancy weight that won’t budge, to that extra bit that just won’t go away no matter how much you work out or diet. A Tummy Tuck can:

• reshape your body to fit comfortably in the clothes you want,
• relieve back ache from getting rid of extra weight,
• help boost your energy and self confidence.

WHAT IS A TUMMY TUCK…Formally called an Abdominoplasty, it is a cosmetic surgery that removes excess skin and fat from the abdominal area resulting in a smoother, flatter tummy. It is the “Gold Standard” and surgery of choice for men and women who want to be rid of the tummy rolls, beer belly, and muffin top. Unlike just getting liposuction, a Tummy Tuck removes both the fat and the stretched out skin for a completely smooth abdominal area.

WHERE CAN YOU TUCK… While Abdominoplasty, by name, is focusing on the abdominal area, you can also receive the same type of procedure and benefits on different parts of your body. For example, some other common areas include:

• hips
• thighs
• back
• bra line
• buttocks

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME FOR A TUMMY TUCK… recovery from this type of surgery generally takes about 6 weeks, so it’s important to plan for some down time. Some people like to use the time off, they’re already getting for the holidays, others like to start off their “New Year with a New Body.” Every person is different, which is why our time in the consult is so important.

FULL BODY CONTOURING… If you’re looking for a full body lift and tuck, Abdominoplasty can be combined with other procedures to address all your areas of concern. Here are some more options for full body contouring:

• Liposuction to remove targeted fat deposits.
• Arm Lifts (Brachiaplasty) to eliminate the hanging, flabby skin under the arm.
• Breast Augmentation, Reduction and Lifts to create a harmonious upper body balance in breast size and form.
• Lower Body Lift to remove fat and extra skin, while lifting and reshaping the thighs, lower abs, and buttocks.

So is it your “time for a tummy tuck”? Let’s talk about your body rejuvenating goals. Visit my website www.davinciplastic.com for more info.

Steven Davison, M.D.

The Hottest Holiday Gift: Cosmetic Procedures

In years past the hottest, trendiest, most desired holiday gifts would be jewelry, purses or a spa package, but now the bar has been raised. Surveys are showing more and more people want to receive cosmetic procedures as a gift for the holidays. This includes both men and women, invasive and non invasive procedures.

So do you want to make your significant other, close friend or family member smile or squeal in delight this holiday season? Well, this week’s blog will guide you how.

WHO IS THE GIFT FOR…Are you giving a gift to someone who is already an injectables customer? A gift certificate for a non invasive treatment is the perfect way to get them back those results they know they love.

On the other hand, are you giving a gift to someone who’s never mentioned surgery or had any injectable treatments, but has expressed they’re not happy with their aged appearance? A gift certificate for a non invasive procedure can ease them into the world of cosmetic rejuvenation that I offer. This can be the answer to their concerns that maybe they would’ve never bought for themselves, but were secretly curious about.

IN AND OUT FOR A HOLIDAY PICK ME UP…Non invasive injectables have minimal to no downtime or discomfort, offer fairly quick to instant results, and have a reasonable price tag too. You can even consider giving the gift early so the youth restoring results can be enjoyed during all the social events revolving around the holidays and celebrating the new year. These are my top 2 choices:

1. Botox for Ladies or “Brotox” for Men’s Brow & Eye Area…Relax those deep lines and creases on the forehead and crows feet. This simple botulinum injection is one of the most popular gifts that can make a someone so happy with their quick youth restoring results. No consult beforehand is required so a special box with a bow and gift card inside can be a nice surprise for any guy or gal.
2. Juvederm for Fuller Lips and Smoother Smile…This is the perfect filler for plush, sensual lips. Ladies love their lips and they will enjoy their instantly fuller look with Juvederm injections. It can also minimize the deep smile lines that crease from the corners of the nose to just past the corners of the mouth in women and men too.

POPULARITY RISING FOR SURGERIES AS HOLIDAY GIFTS… According to some reports, including an ABC News article, giving the gift of cosmetic surgery is up 20% to 35%. Even the cost of bigger surgeries, such as nose jobs, breast augmentation and lipo are being shared with the gift being from multiple family members and friends.

HOW TO GIVE SURGERY AS A GIFT… A consultation is required before any surgery, but that doesn’t have to spoil the surprise. A great way to still make the gift a fun is to give a gift wrapped set of brochures from my office with your hand written note on what they can look forward to.

Give the gift of youth for the holidays and you’ll have a very happy special someone. Let’s talk about how we can make this option easy for you or visit www.DavinciPlastic.com.

Dr. Davison

The face is such a harmonious masterpiece that even the slightest tweak can make a drastic change to the whole face. Just take the controversy last month over the Hollywood actress Renee Zellwegers’s new look. She stepped onto the red carpet at ELLE’s 21st annual Women In Hollywood Awards and something was markedly different about her appearance, particularly the eye and forehead area. Regardless of whether you think it’s an improvement or not, she’s still a beautiful woman, and yet it’s amazing how much change can be made from the small procedures (eyelid lift and botox) that are speculated she’s had done.

Before and After…I have many patients’ before and after photos that point out how much altering the eye and forehead area can change the overall appearance of the face. It offers a completely refreshed, alert, and newly rejuvenated look. So if you have struggled with the terribly aging effects of droopy or puffy eyelids, and deep forehead wrinkles, you can rest assured that there are simple, safe and effective solutions that Davinci Plastic Surgery can provide.

Consider eye lid lift if you…

• have excess, hanging skin covering the natural fold of the upper eyelids
• upper and lower eyelids appear puffy, making your eyes look tired and aged
• have deep troughs under your eyes

What BLEPHAROPLASTY involves… For upper lids you can expect a more visible eyelid that opens up the eyes by removing the excess, hanging skin. To accomplish this without any signs of surgery, the incision line will be made at the natural eyelid crease.

For the lower eyelids
 you can expect the dark shadow created by the bulge and hollow to disappear, giving you a more awake, rejuvenated look. There are a few surgical method options depending on the eye structure and elasticity of the skin, including making an incision just below the eyelashes or inside the eyelid.

Consider a BROW LIFT if you…

• Just don’t like heavy brows close to your eyes
• Have thickened, deep creases in between the brows
• Feel like your lower brows give you a sad, tired or angry look

What a BROW LIFT involves … There are a few methods to choose from depending on your facial structure, such as Biplane, Endoscopic and Traditional/Coronal/Direct Browlift. Knowing which one is best for an individual is why it’s so important to choose someone like myself who is an expert in these types of surgeries. The incisions will be hidden in the hairline and my techniques result in less swelling, bruising and recovery time.

Non Surgical Eye Area Rejuvenation…

• Try hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers lower eyelids. JUVÉDERM can be injected into the under eye trough where there’s normally dark circles to rejuvenate the appearance of the under-eye area.
• Fat grafting is also an option for filling in sunken under eyes.
• Lasers to tighten excess skin and remove wrinkles.
• BOTOX for relaxing the lines on the forehead and crows feet.
• These all may be used in conjunction with BLEPHAROPLASTY to accomplish optimal results for youthful eyes.

Rejuvenating your eye area will impact the youthful appearance of your whole face. Some say the eyes are the gateway to the soul, but I can at least attest that the eyes are the gateway to the face. Let’s talk about revitalizing your eye area today. To learn more visit www.davinciplastic.com

Steven Davison, MD

Facial & Reconstructive Plastic Surgeon/Board Certified

Schedule  Surgery Now … to be Ready for the Holiday’s

Our social calendars fill up quickly this time of year. Celebrating the holiday season is a fun, festive time, and you want to look great at each of these social appearances, right? If you’re considering cosmetic surgery, you’ll want to keep in mind the recovery time needed for healing. The priority is to be enjoying the holidays to the fullest and not worrying about any bruising or healing that could hold you back.

Here’s a guide on the recovery time, during which you’ll need to rest and/or take off work. It’s better to schedule a little more time than you’ll need and be pleasantly surprised if you recover faster.

Procedures that need at least…

1 week… Breast augmentation, reduction or lift, arm lift (brachioplasty), liposuction, male chest reduction (gynecomastia)          

2 weeks… brow/forehead lift, facelift, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty)

3-4 weeks… tummy tuck, “mommy makeover,” body lift

The recovery time frame can be influenced by your health and habits. Having plastic surgery would be the perfect reason to stop smoking – at least 2 months prior to your surgery. Two weeks prior and after surgery, stop taking anything that enhances bleeding, such as aspirin, Motrin, Vitamin E and some herbs (I’ll provide a full list). You can also do some things before surgery to help recovery go smoothly and to ease your mind going in and coming out of your procedure.

BEFORE SURGERY… try to set up your household to be on autopilot, such as electronic bill paying and have lawn or pool maintenance prescheduled. Stock up on groceries, but also give yourself a break on cooking the first few days and have your favorite restaurant delivery menus handy. Ideally you’ll need to have someone stay with you, at least the first couple days post surgery. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

AFTER SURGERY…

• I know recovery isn’t fun, but think positive and surround yourself with people, music, movies, aromatherapy, etc. that will uplift your spirits.
• Have some natural bruising recovery gel on hand, such as Arnica Montana and Bromelain…both can help reduce discoloration. Save rubbing Vitamin E on the incisions until after sutures are removed usually within 5-10 days post op.
• Stay well hydrated (non-alcoholic beverages please) and well nourished with whole foods so your body has nutrients to repair itself. I know you’re going to want convenient and comfort foods, but try to keep greasy or processed foods to a minimum.
• It’s perfectly fine to do a little moving around after a few days, but avoid all activities after surgery that increase your heart rate and blood pressure for 2 full weeks.
• Allow yourself time to sleep. When your body is physically at rest it can focus more energy on repairing itself.
• Follow instructions on caring for your dressings and drains. Call if you have any concerns.
• Keep your follow up appointment with me (usually within a week) so that we can make sure you’re recovery is on track and I can answer any questions.

You still have time for cosmetic surgery before the holidays, but if surgery is not an option for you, then consider our non surgical options to rejuvenate your face, such as Botox, Juvederm/Voluma, Radiesse, Fat Transfer/Grafting. Visit www.davinciplastic.com to learn more.  Today’s Men and Women are having cosmetic procedures.  Couples show up in my office on a regular basis, requesting today’s most advanced anti aging treatments.  Baby Boomers and Millennialls are aging more youthfully…together!

Let’s get you looking your absolute best so you can look younger and more vibrant…everyday!

Dr. Steven Davison

Board certified Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon

Well, we’ve written tons of material about facial aging and ways to restore youthfulness. That’s because, no matter what we do we will all continue to age…some people simply put, age more gracefully and beautifully than others.

Cosmetic enhancement is all about using procedures, techniques and products to stave off the “signs” of aging or by actually removing lines and wrinkles, sagging skin and more using the right option(s). The main question the past couple of years has been: “Dr. Davison, do I need surgery or can fillers get the job done?” So let’s look at this today:       

FILLERS/INJECTABLES vs SURGERY

First, it’s critical that your surgeon thoroughly understands the complex facial anatomy. Secondly, fillers require much knowledge also. The key is in knowing which filler(s) to use at a given time by knowing what they do and how they work. These simple guidelines remain foundational:

1)    Know when to use fillers – they are excellent to correct initial gauntness from volume loss and the right fillers can restore volume and definition while smoothing out early lines and wrinkles. They work well as long as there is no loose skin.

2)    When to choose surgery – Fillers can offer long lasting results, but if skin elasticity is poor the muscles slip and fillers cannot deal with these issues. Surgery is the right option at this stage. It can effectively deal with loose, sagging skin and reposition relaxed muscles to their more youthful positions.

While nothing replaces good genes, a good surgeon can help guide you in making the correct choices no matter what age or stage you are currently enjoying.

Men and women today, Boomers and Millennials, are choosing to have age defying cosmetic enhancements because they can, and because they want to look as good and youthful as they feel!

FALL IS HERE IN ALL ITS GLORY…and the calendars are filling up with social events for school, work, church, family etc. You can start now and breeze through a hectic season looking vibrant, radiant and healthy. In fact, it’s possible to look up to 10 years younger without surgery…and no one will know except you!

INJECTABLES mini REVIEW:

I’ve been doing non surgical facelifts and rejuvenating the cheeks, nose, eyes, chin and lips for years…using injectable fillers for wonderful natural looking results that can last up to 2 years.

Here’s what I use, how and where I use it:

• Lips   Nasolabial folds   Hollow cheeks
• Weak jawline     Nose job       Brow lift
• Marionette lines   Crow’s feet     Forehead lines/wrinkles
• Undereye shadows     Backs of hands

TODAY’S INJECTABLES OF CHOICE:

1. Juvederm (Voluma is fabulous!)
2. Radiesse
3. Restylane
4. Sculptra
5. Botox/Brotox/Dysport

OK…CALL TO SCHEDULE YOUR CONSULTATION SOON! You have choices to make to look fabulous.   See www.DAVinciplastic.com.

Dr. Davison

FLAT, TIGHT, TONED, FLAB FREE…what ever your goal is for your body sculpting treatments, especially for the midsection, knowing what really works and what is not so effective makes a big difference.  There are always “myths” attached to popular procedures whether they are surgical or non surgical.  I want to cover a few of those in this blog to empower your mission in Body Sculpting, Refining, Reshaping…or whatever it may be.  Hands Down the best way to achieve a flat, toned tummy is with a surgical Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty).  Read on!

TOP TUMMY MYTHS:  1)  A Tummy Tuck can make you constipated.  Wrong!  TRUTH: When done properly, a tummy tuck should have no bearing on your digestive tract since no incisions are made near the digestive system.  The only time problems arise is if a large hernia exists in a nearby space.  If so, it should be addressed.  There is always potential for some swelling in the stomach that could temporarily affect the bowels but in most cases, after healing is complete and you are no longer wearing a compression garment, no problems should exist.   2) You can’t have a Tummy Tuck right after a C Section.  TRUTH:  You should never have a Tummy Tuck right after delivery since time is needed for swelling to resolve and extra weight to be lost.  “Too posh to push” was coined when Hollywood celebrities were electing to have C Section deliveries combined with immediate Tummy Tuck surgery.  Bad Idea!  Both surgeries are invasive and require healing time.  Also, during breast feeding hormone levels are elevated and most new moms have water weight to deal with.  Tummy Tuck surgery should be done about six months post delivery.  3)  During a Tummy Tuck the belly button is removed and a brand new one is made.  Wrong!  TRUTH:  The belly button is never removed during a Tummy Tuck, only the loose, excess skin around it is removed (excised). The belly button is attached to a “stalk” that goes deep into the stomach and cannot be removed.  The belly button may be reshaped and repositioned as excess skin is removed.  In this case, the belly button is simply pulled up through the skin once the tummy has been reshaped and excess skin and fat removed and tightening is done.  It’s the original belly button you were born with attached to the tissue stalk you were given in utero.  www.davinciplastic.com.

TOP BREAST MYTHS:  1)  A Breast Lift is the only way to lift the breasts.  Wrong!  TRUTH:  Implants are often used if your skin is in good shape and sagging is minimal.The right implants offer a nice lift, increased breast volume and reshaping.  Surgery is needed when muscles and skin are too relaxed and stretched. Then surgery can tighten and lift muscles to where they belong, excess sagging skin can be removed and the breast lifted to a naturally beautiful position.  2)  After a breast lift, your breasts will stay perky and in a high position forever.  Wrong!  TRUTH:  Nothing is forever and just like the rest of your body, the breasts continue to age and settle even after a surgical breast lift.  However, the breast lift keeps you looking years younger.  3)  Fat Transfers to the breasts makes your breasts immune to weight changes.  Wrong!  TRUTH:  Just like the rest of your body,  the breast weight can fluctuate for life.

WHAT AGE IS TOO OLD for COSMETIC PROCEDURES?  The better question is:  When is it too late?  Sadly many people wait too long and then require invasive procedures…if they had started when younger…NON INVASIVE would work to minimize the visual effects of aging.  More on that in future blogs.

Ready for “beach time” Family Reunions, Graduations, Weddings etc.?

Let’s Talk now.

Steven Davison M.D.

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Body Sculpting is so popular among today’s Boomers, GenXer’s and Millennials.  Social media plays a leading role in driving patients of all ages into surgeon’s offices for invasive and non invasive procedures to sculpt and refine the body of their dreams.  Social Media, FaceBook being a primary source, has proven to dramatically influence people of all ages and from all income levels to have FaceLifts, Chin Augmentations, Nose Jobs, Eyelid/Forehead Lifts, Breast procedures, Arm Lifts, Tummy Tucks…and many more.  See my previous blogs on Body Sculpting for details on what’s involved in Body Refinement and Contouring.

Looking Good on Facebook Spikes a Rise in Plastic Surgery Requests:  Social media is about seeing and being seen. A survey of 752 surgeons revealed a 31% increase in plastic surgery requests from people wanting to look better on Social Media.  Procedures most requested were:  Botox, Rhinoplasty, FaceLifts, ArmLifts (Brachiaplasty) and Breast Augmentation.

EXECUTIVES, CAREERS and PLASTIC SURGERY PROCEDURES…We live in a very visual world today and this affects even careers.  A colleague of mine, from Manhattan, sees a lot of men and women executives and high profile individuals who are in the public eye constantly.  Their pictures are taken constantly…and they are expected to always look good!  YouTube, Facebook, HD Television and public appearances demand they look their absolute best.  These people previously focused mainly on the face…but now are into Body Sculpting as well. They get paid more to look great! 

CELEBRITIES CHOICES INFLUENCE US!  We learned from the “Celebs” how to defy aging by employing anti aging treatments. The key is to start early (at the first sign of tiny facial lines, etc.) and to always maintain in order to always look about 10 years younger.  A few of today’s celebrities have heavily influenced how people want to look. 

·      Kate Middleton’s Nose is the nose of choice among the World’s female population

·      Cheryl Cole’s Dimples…well those are hard to copy

·      Robert Pattison’s jaw is the envy of scores of men

·      Brit Jude Law has the most requested nose for men

·      First Lady Michelle Obama has the most admired arms causing a spike in requests for Upper Arm Lifts (Brachiaplasty)

·      And the list goes on………….

SCULPTED BODIES and the LIPSTICK EFFECT…The economy today has also driven people in for cosmetic procedures.  We have developed a “collective vanity” per some analysts, but not  according to the younger generations today who consider looking good to be important to overall good health.  In fact,  they budget for cosmetic procedures as part of their health regimen. So they come for FaceLifts and Body Sculpting regularly.  Those who cannot afford those options choose less expensive anti aging treatments such as Botox, Injectable Fillers, microdermabrasion, chemical peels and others to reduce the visuals of aging.  This is called the “Lipstick Effect.”  We cut back on big ticket spending and opt for the “injection effect” to stave off surgery a bit longer and to allow the economy to improve.  We also indulge a bit and buy that cologne, perfume or special lipstick we’ve been wanting!

MOST POPULAR BODY CONTOURING/REFINING OPTIONS: Liposuction, Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty), Lower Body Lift, Mommy Makeover, Daddy DoOver, Thigh Lift, Cellulite Treatments, Buttock Augmentation, Rhinoplasty (Nose Jobs) FaceLifts, Brest Augmentation, Breast Reduction, Breast Lift, Labiaplasty (FemGen for V Zone Rejuvenation)…and more.  See my website: www.davinciplastic.com.

Well, Winter is still blasting away…but Spring will come!  Are you ready for all the events?  Bikini…Beach Season will be here soon. 

 
Let’s talk now and design your Refined Body Treatment Plan.

Steven Davison M.D.

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

BODY CONTOURING is a general term for Cosmetic Surgery Procedures used to reshape, resculpt or change the size, profile or parameters of the body anatomy.  Contouring employs  surgical and non surgical methods to achieve the desired results.  This blog will focus on the surgical methods that are in top demand today…such as Mommy Makeovers, Breast Augmentation and Buttocks Augmentation.  Since no two people are identical, I tailor an individualized program for each patient.  No “cookie cutter” plans here!

CAREFUL PLANNING with your SURGEON IS REQUIRED TO ACHIEVE EXCELLENT, DESIRABLE RESULTS in BODY CONTOURING…to remove bulges and curves you don’t want and create curves you do want…where you want them!

REASONS PEOPLE HAVE BODY CONTOURING:

• Considerable Weight Loss
• Post Pregnancy…Desire for Pre Pregnancy Body
• Saggy skin and skin flaps that won’t retract in spite of diet and exercise
• Excess fatty deposits, flab and bulges that won’t budge
• Out of Shape Body due to all the above
• Cellulite pockets causing unsightly dimples
• Baggy clothes…nothing fits right except baggy, saggy tops/bottoms
• Desire for a healthy, firm, trim body to improve self image and self confidence

WHEN IS A GOOD TIME to have BODY CONTOURING (Sculpting/Shaping) DONE?   Every person is different so times will vary, but you should be in good general health and at a stable weight (for about 6 months) in order for the chosen procedures to be safe and effective.

BODY CONTOURING…THE GOAL of all Body Contouring surgery is to achieve balanced and harmonious sculpting, by treating the body as “a whole” and never treating the body as “isolated parts.” 

BODY CONTOURING SURGERY MAY INCLUDE:  Liposuction, Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty), Body Lift, Arm Lift (Brachiaplasty), Breast Augmentation using implants, Breast Reduction and/or Breast Lift. Nose Jobs, Necklift/sculpting Eyelid/Brow Lifts, FaceLifts, Thigh Lifts, Buttocks Augmentation/Reshaping/Lifts etc. and several more procedures.  See my website for more info: www.davinciplastic.com.

FULL BODY CONTOURING TODAY INVOLVES … Liposuction to remove isolated fat deposits to eliminate bulges on the thighs, hips and abdomen. Liposuction sculpts the body to the proper proportions and offers dramatic results that can be maintained with a healthy diet and exercise regimen. Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) to remove excess abdominal skin and fat to create a smoother, flatter tummy.  Lower Body Lift to remove excess fat and skin from the thighs, lower abs and buttocks, as well as to tighten and lift everything to resize, shape and contour this area. Breast Augmentation, Reduction and Lifts to create desirable breast size and form and Arm Lifts (Brachiaplasty) to achieve upper body balance.  Arm Lifts involve removal of excess fat and hanging, flabby skin under the arm. 

COMBINATION of PROCEDURES for BODY CONTOURING!  A combination of procedures is common to achieve each patients individual plan for Body Sculpting.  See my last two blogs for more info on methods used today.

MOMMY MAKEOVER is one of today’s Top Body Contouring/Sculpting procedures.  Watch for my next blog to get updated on Mommy MakeOvers. 

Spring is on it’s way soon…Family Reunions, Graduations, Weddings, Corporate events, and more.  Are you ready to put your “best body” forward.  If not, let’s talk now.

Best to You and Yours,

Steven Davison M.D.