Are There Benefits of Breast Reconstruction After Breast Cancer Surgery?
If you’ve been through breast cancer surgery, you know how frightening the whole experience is – starting right from the diagnosis.
Perhaps you’ve had a lumpectomy that altered the size and shape of your breast. Or if you’ve had a single or double mastectomy, the appearance of your breasts has significantly changed.
It’s an emotional journey, to be sure. If the smoke hasn’t yet cleared, give yourself time to settle into your new reality. You may be quite comfortable with it. If not, you could always consider the benefits of breast reconstruction.
The Benefits of Breast Reconstruction
As horrifying and worrisome as the above-mentioned procedures are, they are often life-saving and most patients are grateful for them. Even so, some women feel self-conscious about how their breasts now appear. For them, breast reconstruction is a consideration.
There are several reasons these patients opt for breast reconstruction surgery following a mastectomy or lumpectomy.
- Restores Proportion and Balance to the Breasts
One of the biggest laments patients share after a lumpectomy or mastectomy is the perceived lack of symmetry and balance. They feel their appearance is off-center or ‘crooked’. This is especially true if surgery was performed on only one breast. Breast reconstruction reconciles this by restoring balance and proportion to the breasts.
- Eliminates the Need for a Prosthetic
Breast reconstruction isn’t the only option. The truth is, after undergoing surgery to fight breast cancer, some women are not eager to go under the knife again. For them, a prosthetic known as a breast form is a viable solution. And many of them will stay with this option.
The issue with breast forms is that they require the use of adhesives and specialized bras though. So some women begin to miss the feeling of having their breasts as a natural part of their bodies. At this point, they may choose breast reconstruction to attain that.
- Boosts Self-Esteem and Confidence
When you get right down to it, it’s reason #3 here that patients opt for breast reconstruction. While some women are largely unaffected by their new look, confidence and self-esteem take a hit with the loss of breast tissue for others.
At the end of the day, bringing proper balance back and feeling that the breasts are a natural part of the body all lend to increased self-esteem and confidence for these patients.
Breast Reconstruction Surgery Is Not One Size Fits All
Breast reconstruction surgery is customized to meet each person’s specific situation. There are three basic methods:
- Breast Implant
Breast implant reconstruction is the least invasive method. It does not require harvesting tissue from another part of the body and relies, instead, on saline or silicone implants. With this method, the surgeon employs tissue expanders to gradually recreate the natural mound of the breast. Then the implants can be placed.
- Fat Transfer
Fat transfer reconstruction is going to be a better option for patients who’ve had a lumpectomy or partial breast trauma than for those who’ve had a full mastectomy. In this procedure, rather than using implants, fat tissue is harvested from elsewhere on the body (typically hips, thighs, abdomen, or back). It is then purified and transferred to the breast area to restore its/their natural shape.
- Autologous
Autologous breast reconstruction, also known as perforator flap reconstruction, is the most complex of the three methods. Requiring the skills of an experienced plastic surgeon, it also involves harvesting tissue from somewhere else on the body to manipulate a new breast that looks and feels like a natural one. The results are long-lasting.
Still Not Sure?
If you’re not entirely confident about breast reconstruction surgery, there’s no rush. You want to feel ready and right about your decision. No rule says you have to do it. Many women do not.
In the meantime, if you’re curious about all of the many other ways plastic surgery can serve you, keep checking back with our blog. It’s chock full of descriptive, informative, and even fun articles.
And if you come across a procedure that sounds even more beneficial for you, don’t hesitate to contact us!
Getting Defined Arms Through Plastic Surgery
With summer quickly approaching, you may be trying everything in your power to get toned arms. And if you’re not having much luck with your efforts, you’re probably feeling frustrated.
You don’t need to throw in the towel on having great arms this summer just yet though.
It is possible to get more defined arms through plastic surgery.
How To Achieve Defined Arms Through Plastic Surgery
The cool thing about plastic surgery is that no matter which area of the body you’re targeting, there are usually multiple choices in how to approach it.
But that’s also the challenging part because it can leave patients confused about what to do. Fortunately, when you enlist a highly professional and board-certified plastic surgeon, he or she will advise you on the best route for you.
There are three main options when it comes to tightening arms.
- Liposuction
If the skin of your arms is still taut and bounces back easily, your surgeon will likely recommend liposuction. He or she will make two small incisions, one above the elbow and another near the upper armpit, then utilize a cannula to draw out the fat and de-bulk the arm.
You’ll want to schedule this procedure soon though because you may need to wear a compression garment for up to a month to minimize fluid buildup and enable the skin to re-drape.
- Emsculpt
Many who seek out Emsculpt procedures focus on improving their abs. And it’s extremely effective for this area. Plus, toning the abdominal muscles will have the natural outcome of increasing core strength and stability.
Yet there are even smaller paddles utilized to target the biceps and triceps. For instance, golfers and tennis players use Emsculpt to improve the strength of their swings and explosive maneuvers.
Emsculpt is a better option for those with minimal excess fat and good elasticity. You relax back onto a table while a small device is strapped over the area of your arms you’re targeting. Facilitators give you tips on ways to breathe and relax through the session.
Power from the device slowly increases and your muscles begin to contract, creating an intense vibration that may feel strange at first. After a few contractions, the machine switches to a tapping action to break down the lactic acid your muscles produce during the contractions. At the end of 30 minutes, you’re done. It’s a great option for those who qualify and are looking for a quick procedure with no downtime.
- Brachioplasty
Brachioplasty or arm lift surgery is the best option for patients with excess loose skin and moderate to severe skin laxity. It’s effective for reducing sagging skin and localized fat that hangs off the upper arm. At the same time, underlying supportive tissue is tightened and smoothed.
Performed under general anesthesia, there are two types of brachioplasty. With a full brachioplasty, more skin and fat are removed. A modified brachioplasty does not require as much removal. Therefore, it is the one that will involve a shorter recovery time.
Your plastic surgeon will do everything in his or her power to limit the incisions and scarring as much as possible. However, in cases where there is a lot of excess skin and fat, a longer incision may be required. And while this will leave a scar, it will fade significantly over time.
Regardless of the incision, excess fat is either directly excised or removed through liposuction. From there, underlying tissue is tightened and then reshaped using internal sutures. Then the skin is smoothed over the resulting toned contour.
Finally, incisions are closed with either absorbable sutures or with stitches that will need to be removed within a week or two of the procedure.
Show Off Your Arms This Summer (and Beyond)
If you’re not getting the results you want through diet and exercise, then take advantage of everything plastic surgery has to offer.
Contact us today to find out how you can get more defined arms through plastic surgery.
And put the dumbbells away for now!
Top Questions About Laser Skin Resurfacing
Are you frustrated with wrinkles, age spots, acne scars, or other blemishes? You don’t have to accept them as a fact of life.
Laser skin resurfacing is a non-surgical way to tighten skin and balance tone. Yet, simple as it sounds, there are many different options for this procedure, and that leaves patients with a lot of questions.
Speaking with a plastic surgeon or skin specialist will help clarify the exact procedure you’ll need. In the meantime, we’ll review some of the more commonly asked questions.
Do Laser Skin Resurfacing Treatments Hurt?
They may and they may not. It depends on the procedure, as well as your personal threshold for pain.
Some laser resurfacing treatments are more intense than others. Deeper ablative treatments where some outer layers of the skin are removed may require local anesthetic injections. But non-ablative treatments typically cause little to no pain. Topical numbing cream can help ward off any discomfort.
After the procedure, there may be some tenderness in the treatment area that can be treated.
Will It Work If I Have Darker Skin?
For a long time, laser resurfacing was only an effective treatment for patients with lighter skin. This is because lasers posed a high risk for cell damage in darker skin. New technology has greatly lowered this risk and certain laser treatments are more effective than others for lighter-toned African American, Asian, or Hispanic skin tones.
For patients with darker brown or black skin, however, other skin resurfacing options such as microneedling might be recommended. Your provider will advise you.
Is There a Better Time of Year to Have It?
Since laser-treated skin needs to be protected from the sun after the procedure, late autumn through winter is laser season. Unless you live in a tropical environment, the winter months are darker and colder and skin is covered. In addition, more time is spent indoors.
Even if you opt to get laser resurfacing in the fall or winter, you’ll still need to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher. Not only will you protect your skin against skin cancer, but it will protect the results of your procedure as well.
Can It Be Impacted by Certain Medications or Conditions?
The short answer is yes. Products like aspirin or chronic conditions like diabetes can increase the risk of bleeding after your procedure. And patients who smoke will likely experience slower healing.
In addition, laser treatment can induce acne breakouts, and people on certain acne medications may experience poor healing or scarring from a laser skin resurfacing treatment.
As such, it’s crucial that you’re absolutely honest with your provider about your medical history, as well as any medications you’re taking. This includes supplements.
How Much Downtime Is There?
Your needs may be met with a single laser treatment. In most cases though, you’ll need a series of treatments to garner the best results.
As mentioned above, non-ablative treatments are less invasive and may result in little to no downtime at all. Meanwhile, depending on the depth and the type of laser used, healing from ablative laser treatments can take two to three weeks before redness and/or scabbing clears.
You won’t be relegated to your house or anything. You may just feel uncomfortable exposing your skin in social situations during this time.
Reduce Wrinkles, Acne Scars, and Blemishes!
If your skin is looking tired and aged, it might be time to consult with a plastic surgeon or skin specialist about laser skin resurfacing.
Contact us today to find out about the many options available to you. During your free consultation, you’ll be educated about the different laser treatments so you can narrow it down to the one that will be right for you.
Then get ready for brighter and more youthful skin!
Could You Be a Candidate for a Neck Lift?
It’s not surprising that the neck scarf is popular among older people for hiding crepey, drooping, or wrinkled skin. They’ll sport a scarf even in the middle of the summer.
Unlike other areas of the body, the neck doesn’t respond to diet and exercise. And there are almost no over-the-counter treatments that make any kind of difference.
Fortunately, a plastic surgeon can perform a neck lift to restore a more youthful contour and sharper jawline.
Are You a Good Candidate for a Neck Lift?
If you have a double chin, excess fat or drooping skin on the lower face, wrinkly or crepey neck skin, or loose sagging skin that gives the appearance of a ‘turkey neck,’ you may have resigned yourself to a less-than-attractive neckline. You don’t have to though.
If you’re a nonsmoker (or willing to quit), are in generally good health, and have no medical conditions that will slow healing, a neck lift can alter your profile and jawline in such a way that you’ll look years younger.
Another key component is the ability to be realistic about the outcome. When you have a full understanding that a neck lift is not going to drastically change your appearance or stop the aging process, you will be more satisfied with the results.
What To Expect From a Neck Lift Procedure
A neck lift, or in doctorly terms a platysmaplasty, is surgery. That means you’ll be under anesthesia.
The surgeon makes an incision that typically follows the contour from the top of your ear to your lower hairline on each side. Then depending on your specific needs, the surgeon may sculpt, remove, or redistribute excess fat. Tissues may need to be repositioned and tightened and skin will be redraped and positioned over the new contours. Excess skin is trimmed away.
In the case of a double chin, there will also be liposuction to tighten the area.
Neck Lift Recovery
You will need to keep your head elevated and limit the movement of your neck to keep the stitches intact. There may or may not be a drain near the incision site to avoid fluid build-up and lessen swelling.
Any residual bruising or swelling you experience could last for several weeks. As that goes down, you’ll begin to see your new and improved contours.
Follow the specific instructions your doctor will give you to ensure you get the best possible results and quickest recovery.
Are There Non-Surgical Options?
A neck lift is surgery. There’s no way around that. And while there are non-surgical options, they will not achieve the same results.
Even so, if you’re just starting to notice changes in your neck, nonsurgical rejuvenation treatments can delay your need for surgery. Or if you’ve had a neck lift, these non-surgical treatments can complement the results.
If your issues are not advanced, nonsurgical options offer a quicker recovery time and fewer risks. Botox, for example, can reduce banding. Dermal fillers can bring more volume. Microneedling rejuvenates the skin by stimulating collagen production. And laser treatments can provide textural improvements.
You can always discuss these with your plastic surgeon.
Is a Neck Lift Right for You?
If you’re unhappy with the appearance of your neck because of aging, you could be the perfect candidate for a neck lift.
You may also find that a non-surgical technique delivers what you need. Whatever the case, you don’t need to be unhappy with your neck any longer.
Contact us today to set up a free consultation with our board-certified plastic surgeon. You’ll be pointed in the direction that will garner the best results for you.
What Happens to the Belly Button During A Tummy Tuck?
If you’re frequently obsessing over a bulge in your belly, you may be focusing on ways to get rid of it. And if exercising and changing your diet haven’t done the trick, then you might be a good candidate for abdominoplasty.
Also known as a tummy tuck, this procedure is a great way to flatten and contour round bellies that aren’t responding to diet and exercise.
But such a surgery may leave you pondering – what happens to the belly button during a tummy tuck? Let’s explore.
What Is the Belly Button?
Sure, most of us know that the belly button is the demarcation of where the umbilical cord was cut when we were born. It’s a scar – regardless of whether it’s an innie or an outie. And its only purpose after birth is purely cosmetic. It helps to define the contour of our bellies.
But what’s happening beneath that scar? The belly button sits at the end of a ‘stalk’ that extends to the fascia where the two rectus abdominis muscles meet. (If you’re not familiar, these are the muscles you use when doing a sit-up.) So that means if you’re getting any surgical work done on your belly, that stalk is a consideration.
How Is It Addressed During Tummy Tuck?
It’s not unusual for patients to be concerned that their belly button is going to be eliminated after a tummy tuck. But have no fear. While your belly button may have a slight change in appearance or position, it’s the surrounding skin and tissues that are rearranged during the surgery.
At the beginning of the procedure, the inner border of the belly button is held up and the surgeon incises around its edges. It’s then dissected down to its base on the fascia (abdominal wall). Excess skin and fat are retracted so the belly button can be viewed within the separation of the above-mentioned rectus abdominis muscles.
The surgeon tightens the muscles and removes the excess skin and fat. These newly tightened edges of the skin are sutured together. Still attached to the abdominal wall, the belly button stalk is brought out through a new opening which is closely in line with where the hip bones protrude and the edges are neatly sutured.
Does the Belly Button Need to Be Reshaped?
As mentioned above, there will likely be a slight change in the appearance of your belly button. And if you have an outie and want an innie (or vice versa), that can also be achieved.
Whatever the case, your board-certified plastic surgeon will go the extra mile to ensure that the positioning of the belly button looks natural and doesn’t appear too round or too narrow. The scar will also be kept internal.
Is There Always an Issue with the Belly Button During a Tummy Tuck?
For patients with only a mild to moderate amount of fat or loose skin that’s localized to the lower abdomen, a mini tummy tuck may be a good option. This less extensive form of abdominoplasty focuses on the area below the belly button and so there is little to no change in the belly button. There is also no incision or scar around it.
Most candidates for tummy tucks won’t qualify for a mini tuck though as it won’t give them all of the benefits of a full abdominoplasty. This is, or course, something you can discuss with your surgeon as a possible option during your consultation.
Is It Time to Talk Tummy Tuck?
Hopefully, you’re feeling confident now that you won’t lose your belly button during a tummy tuck.
You might even be able to put a new spin on the one you currently have.
So if you’re ready to explore tummy tuck options, contact us today to set up your free consultation. And get ready for a flatter, more toned stomach with the belly button of your dreams.
Do You Have Bloating or Diastasis Recti?
Does your belly protrude in a way that makes you appear pregnant?
There are several possibilities for this. However, the two most common conditions are the standard everyday bloating that many of us experience, or a more complicated issue known as diastasis recti.
So how do you know if your protrusion is a result of bloating or diastasis recti? Let’s take a look.
Determining Whether It’s Bloating or Diastasis Recti
Most of us have experienced bloating. It’s that too-full feeling in the belly that can make your clothes feel too tight, cause cramps, or even limit your activities. The majority of the time, bloating is temporary.
Fortunately, there are dietary and lifestyle changes you can make to minimize or even eliminate bloating.
Ways to Manage Bloating
One of the biggest culprits for bloating is eating too quickly. Doing so can lead to indigestion, as well as cause you to overeat.
What you’re eating is equally important. A fiber-rich diet full of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, seeds, nuts, beans, or other legumes will result in less bloating. Eating more fiber also regulates bowel movements, supports your gut microbiome, and even normalizes blood sugar levels.
Consider eating more probiotics too. These beneficial live bacteria can reduce bloating and are naturally present in many foods including unsweetened yogurt, kefir, kombucha, sauerkraut, miso, tempeh, and kimchi. You can also use probiotic supplements.
And don’t forget to hydrate. Water breaks down food so your body can absorb it more effectively.
Meanwhile, limit (or eliminate) your alcohol consumption. Alcohol is notorious for causing bloat because it can trigger gut inflammation which causes your body to produce more gas than usual.
Finally, after eating, get your body moving to keep your digestion system moving. You can try a brisk walk or some gentle yoga poses.
Diastasis Recti
Diastasis recti looks like bloating but is something quite different. Caused usually by weight gain or pregnancy, it’s a condition wherein the abdominal muscles separate vertically down the middle.
When the uterus expands outward, it can cause the abdominal muscles to stretch so as to accommodate the baby. When the connective tissue is overstretched, the abdominal muscles actually separate.
While for some women the gap closes postpartum, for others, this is not the case. With diastasis recti, the belly extends because those separated abdominal muscles are unable to hold the organs in their normal position near the spine. As a result, the belly bulges.
Assessing and Treating Diastasis Recti
If you’re able to suck your belly all the way in until it’s flat from a side view, that shows how much diastasis you have. If you can’t suck it in, then there may be visceral fat or bloating with or without diastasis recti. There’s a simple self-test to determine diastasis recti.
Start by lying on your back and bending your knees. Place your fingers on each side of your belly button. Point them downward into your stomach and then lift your head. You’ll feel your abdominal muscles contract.
If you have diastasis recti, you will feel a gap between the two sides of the abdomen. You will, of course, want to get this verified by a medical expert. And if the gap exceeds 1.5 cm, it can only be corrected with abdominoplasty.
Also known as a tummy tuck, abdominoplasty repairs abdominal muscle separation and provides you with a smoother and more contoured midsection.
What’s Causing Your Protruded Belly?
One of the simplest ways to determine whether you’re struggling with bloating or diastasis recti is to try the lifestyle changes we’ve suggested above. If they work, you’ve ruled out bloating.
On the other hand, if they don’t, you could be dealing with diastasis recti.
If that’s the case, then don’t hesitate to contact us today. During your free consultation with our board-certified surgeon, you’ll get an understanding of your specific issue so that you can get started on a journey to a flatter and more streamlined tummy.
Reasons to Avoid Silicone Fillers
Once upon a time, the go-to material for dermal fillers was silicone-based. They lasted a long time and the most common areas for injection included the lips, face, buttocks, and hips.
Interestingly, the FDA never approved silicone fillers for cosmetic purposes. Yet, this didn’t stop some practitioners from continuing to offer these “permanent” fillers as an option.
When some patients began to experience chronic inflammation, lumps, skin discoloration, and/or tissue loss after the procedure, however, it served as a real wake-up call to avoid silicone fillers.
The Many Reasons to Avoid Silicone Fillers
Despite the warnings and continued lack of FDA approval, some less-than-ethical clinics continue to offer silicone fillers. If this is something you’re considering, it’s important you understand the risks involved with silicone.
- Risk of Infection
Silicone-based fillers can get infected. While the inflammation that results from such infections can sometimes be treated with antibiotics, in other cases the bacteria is much more difficult to address. This can lead to both short and long-term health problems.
- Fillers Move to Other Parts of the Body
After the procedure, some patients who’ve opted for silicone-based fillers struggle with inflammation and swelling nowhere near the injection site. This is because the silicone fillers can migrate to other areas of the body where they create problems. For patients unaware of this tendency, experiencing pain and swelling in an unrelated area can be alarming. And it’s not always easy to treat.
- A Hyper Immune Response
The human body’s immune system is wired to react aggressively to foreign material in the body. In the case of objects like implants, a highly negative response warrants the removal of the object. The problem with fillers though is that the silicone can not be easily removed. Materials used in contemporary fillers can be easily dissolved. Silicone-based fillers cannot and it may even require surgery to extract it.
- Swollen Tissues
In line with the above-mentioned immune reaction, silicone can cause inflammation and swelling as a result of allergies. It can also be the result of a lymphatic flow blockage. Massaging the swollen area may help reduce the swelling to some extent.
So Then Why Would Someone Choose Silicone Fillers?
At the top of the list of reasons to choose silicone is that they last a long time. Current fillers in the U.S. last six to 24 months. By contrast, silicone fillers can last for years or decades. Thus, they require fewer injections.
But because of the countless problems incurred, most doctors and practitioners don’t offer them. While you can still find locations who will perform the procedure illegally and by non-medical practitioners, it’s very risky.
Contemporary Fillers
Today, most fillers are made with the body’s natural compound hyaluronic acid that is found in the skin and cartilage. It typically dissolves within 12 to 16 months. Some injectables contain the mineral calcium hydroxylapatite which is a mineral that’s found in the bones. These fillers last closer to 18 months.
A biodegradable synthetic material called poly-L-lactic acid is also available. These are the longest lasting at two years. Whatever the case, dermal fillers are a safe option for patients who would rather try a more temporary procedure.
Insist on Safe Fillers
If dermal fillers are in your future, the obvious solution is to avoid silicone fillers.
While today’s modern fillers may not last as long and you’ll need to get more of them, isn’t your health worth it? We think so.
So contact us today to set up a free consultation. You’ll be so glad you did.
When Is Plastic Surgery Reversal A Good Idea?
Plastic surgery reversal is not the same thing as revision. A revision is the correction of a faulty procedure. A reversal, on the other hand, is the undoing of a successful procedure to restore one’s previous appearance.
There are many reasons patients may consider a reversal. And it’s important they are realistic about their expectations.
Since there’s no magic involved, there are limits to the capabilities of these procedures. Some more than others.
When Plastic Surgery Reversal Makes Sense
Unfortunately, there are always going to be patients who partake in frequent cosmetic surgery procedures to chase the latest trends. Many surgeons choose not to work with these patients because they don’t grasp that repeated surgeries and reversals can have lasting or even permanent effects.
There are several instances when plastic surgery reversal could be considered, however. In these cases, the surgeon is careful to review with the patient the risks involved with plastic surgery reversal.
The three most logical reasons for reversal are as follows:
- Medical Complications
With any medical procedure, there is always going to be a risk. In situations where infections or tissue damage occur, patients may opt for either a plastic surgery revision (if they want to fix the issue) or a reversal procedure. In some rare instances, a reversal may be the only option.
- Changes in Personal Preferences or Lifestyle
We want to specify here again the difference between someone wanting to be part of the latest trend versus a person who has shifted into different preferences or lifestyle choices over time.
For example, a woman who wanted large breast implants in her 20s may find them no longer desirable in her 30s. Another common example is a patient wanting to restore ethnic facial features that he or she felt pressured to change when younger.
Any big life changes such as marital status, having a child, shifting careers, or facing a health challenge can also trigger the need to reverse a procedure. These would all be carefully evaluated with the surgeon.
- Psychological/Emotional Concerns
Despite their best efforts and advancements in technology that allow patients to get a glimpse of their results, there will always be those who are dissatisfied at first. Sometimes it’s a matter of gaining familiarity with a new appearance.
For patients who are unable to clear this hurdle and become psychologically or emotionally distraught because of it, a reversal would be a serious consideration.
Recovery From Plastic Surgery Reversal
A skilled and board-certified plastic surgeon is your best insurance against problematic procedures. But you’ll also want to insist on this for any reversal you’re considering.
Depending on the procedure or treatment to be reversed, an ethical surgeon will be honest and upfront about what you can expect. How much of your pre-procedure appearance you can expect to get back will be dependent on the procedure so it’s important you understand what to expect.
In terms of recovery time, you can expect a similar situation to the one you experienced with the initial surgery. Therefore, you’ll need to schedule accordingly.
Is Plastic Surgery Removal Right For You?
Plastic surgery reversal is a big decision and not one to be taken lightly. You’ll want to consider the long-term outcome rather than just what you want in the immediate moment.
So if you’re feeling quite certain this is the right choice for you, then contact us today.
During your free consultation, Dr. Reisin will discuss the risks and benefits to help you weigh your options. From there, you can move forward with more confidence.
Can You Reduce the Appearance of Large Pores?
Many people fear the close-up. And while makeup can go the distance in covering up blemishes and other imperfections, it can accentuate large pores.
Large pores are the result of oil and sweat not being properly released through the pores by the sebaceous glands that sit beneath the skin. Eventually the pores get clogged with oil, dirt, and dead skin cells leading to the appearance of large pores. And it doesn’t just happen to those with oily skin.
So is there any way to reduce the appearance of large pores?
You CAN Reduce the Appearance of Large Pores
Some degree of pore visibility is normal. And you can change your skincare routine and try gentle cleansers and/or a clay mask. Getting rid of oil-based products and using mineral sunscreen can also help.
But for those who struggle with large pores because of genetic factors, or for those for whom the change in skincare doesn’t work, there are also non-invasive procedures that can help:
Chemical Peels
If you’ve tried various exfoliants and haven’t had any luck, you may have more success with chemical peels. Peels are effective in removing the dirt, dead skin, and blackheads that contribute to the appearance of large pores.
While it might sound a bit scary, chemical peels remove layer(s) of skin. To do this, skincare specialists use an exfoliant consisting of salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and trichloroacetic acid. The process is very similar to getting a sunburn that causes the skin to peel.
Depending on the level of exfoliation needed, there are three different types of peels. With a light peel, the exfoliant doesn’t penetrate any deeper than the top layer of skin and takes around 30 minutes. A medium peel gets down to the middle layer of skin to remove damaged skin cells. Finally, a deep peel gets down a little further to remove the most damaged cells.
Microneedling
In a nutshell, microneedling uses radiofrequency to stimulate collagen and elastin production. The main concept behind the process is to create micro-injuries to the skin to stimulate the body’s response.
With microneedling, the skin is pierced to create inflammation. The immune system is then triggered to increase blood flow to the area to disinfect the pores and remove debris. This, in essence, creates new tissue and a fresh network of blood cells is built. Finally, newly created blood vessels and dermal tissues repair the area.
Laser Treatments
Many patients seek laser treatments to address wrinkles and scars. But this outpatient procedure is effective in reducing the appearance of large pores too.
Similar to chemical peels, these treatments use ablative or non-ablative lasers to remove the top layer of damaged skin to stimulate the growth of new skin cells. Also like chemical peels, there are three different types of laser treatments – CO2, erbium, and fractionated CO2.
Which one is right for you will depend on how deep the damage is.
Are You Embarrassed by Large Pores?
You don’t need to be.
Contact us today to find out how we can help you change your skincare routine or utilize one of the above procedures to reduce the appearance of large pores.
And get ready for your close-up.
Pioneers in Plastic Surgery – Arthur Rainsford Mowlem (1902–1986)
When you think of plastic surgery, you may consider it a relatively new field. It’s actually been around longer than you may think.
Although plastic surgery has existed in some form for millennia, casualties from World War I and II in particular created a new demand for reconstructive surgery.
Born in New Zealand in 1902, Arthur Rainsford Mowlem, was the youngest of four well-known British plastic surgeons who practiced in between the world wars.
The Journey to Medicine
Mowlem started out studying law, but later changed to medicine. In 1924, he undertook house officer appointments in Auckland Hospital before going into general practice. Once he decided to take the surgical route, he worked his passage to England around Cape Horn as a ship’s surgeon.
He studied at the Middlesex Hospital for the primary Fellowship, completed his house surgeon’s appointment in Greenwich, then passed the final Fellowship of the Royal Colleges of Surgeons in 1929. Throughout the war years, he would treat many victims of air raids. He also participated in early trials of penicillin.
Interestingly, when he served as a resident surgical officer at Queen Mary’s Stratford, he met with the then Prince of Wales and, being a heavy smoker, showed him where to smoke cigarettes.
Shifting Gears
Mowlem was planning to return to New Zealand to take an orthopedic post in Auckland, but destiny took him to Hammersmith Hospital instead. It was there that he met Sir Harold Gillies who had been given four beds for plastic surgery. Mowlem was fascinated by the potential of this burgeoning field. And Gillies noticed.
Along with P.T. Kilner and A.H. McIndoe, Gillies was part of a group of pioneering surgeons. Mowlem moved with Gillies to a larger unit at St. James Hospital. With the addition of Mowlem, the quartet would become known as the “Big Four.”
The two first full-blown medical publications committed specifically to plastic, reconstructive, and aesthetic surgery were the Revue de Chirurgie Plastique and the Revue de Chirurgie Structive. The publication existed from 1931- 1938 and the four surgeons were often cited.
By 1940, Mowlem served as a professor who lectured on the use of iliac chips from bone grafting in patients with mandibular defects. He was considered an outstanding teacher who would go on to train juniors in plastic surgery techniques.
1950s and Beyond
After the war, he was twice President of the British Association of Plastic Surgeons and went on to serve as President of the Second International Congress of Plastic Surgeons. He was given an honorary Doctor of Science degree from Trinity College, Hartford, USA, and an honorary Fellowship of the American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons.
His primary interest in reconstructive surgery to repair unsightly defects (resulting particularly from the treatment of malignant disease) continued until his retirement in 1962. Despite his significant contributions, he would never receive British honors.
What Can Plastic Surgery Do For You?
The legacy of Rainsford Mowlem lives on in the field of plastic surgery. His contributions made a major difference in how procedures are performed today.
Of course, plastic surgery has come a long way since then. So if you’re considering any sort of plastic surgery, contact us today to set up your free consultation.
We look forward to hearing from you!
