I want to look refreshed, not plastic

Most patients seeking plastic surgery desire to look well rested and refreshed. They do not want to look different or appear as if they have had surgery. It is also important to limit the amount of time it takes to recover and return to normal activities.  In the past surgery and chemical peels were the only way to achieve these goals. Today there are non-invasive procedures, surgery, lasers, chemical peels, and injections.

Many physicians offer some of these options. Board certified Plastic Surgeons have been trained in all of these techniques.

Most of the non-invasive techniques offer temporary improvements and are very effective for short term goals.  There is little or no down time and most procedure can be done in less than an hour. There is minimal to moderate pain with these procedures.

Lasers can be used to treat wrinkles, age spots, tattoos, and spider veins. The results vary based on the type of laser and the expertise of the physician. The fractional CO² laser is a new machine that allows wrinkle treatment under local/topical anesthesia in the office. The procedure takes 30 minutes and the recovery is in 3 to 7 days. The procedure is associated with minimal to moderate discomfort for about an hour. The laser treats 30% of the skin with each treatment so most patients have three procedures over the course of a few months.

Manufacturers of wrinkle fillers have spent millions of advertising dollars on their products. It seems that a new one is offered every day. These products are used to minimize the lines around the mouth and in the forehead. Most are very effective and last between 3 and 18 months. They are very effective, the procedure is done in the office under local/topical anesthesia and there is usually no down time. However, there can be a day of two of redness and swelling. Botox Cosmetic and a host of other muscle blockers temporarily stop the function of muscles that cause frown lines and "crow’s feet" around the eyes. These agents work in a few days and last 3 to 6 months.

The most remarkable advances have been made in surgery. To help reduce down time and minimize scarring, shorter incisions and quicker operating times have been used to refresh the face. In the 90’s the trend was to do longer more invasive surgeries in an effort to make a lasting change. This look is well known. In the 21^st century face lifts are performed thru shorter incisions and are less invasive procedures, producing a refreshed look that lasts 5 to 10 years and allows patients to return to normal activity in a few weeks. The procedure can be repeated as needed if this is desired.  The facelift is done as an outpatient under light sedation or local anesthesia.  Unfortunately, slick marketing jingles are being used to entice people to call a national number which directs the caller to a surgeon. This infomercial is produced by a marketing company, to sell surgery. Caution is recommended because the skill of the surgeon is the most important factor in obtaining a desired result.

As any licensed physician can perform cosmetic surgery, it's crucial to find one who is properly trained and certified. Choosing a physician who is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons is the first step to ensure quality care and predictable outcomes. Each ASPS Member Surgeon has at least five years of surgical training—with a minimum of two years experience specifically in plastic surgery. All ASPS Member Surgeons are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery or The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Protect yourself by choosing a physician who is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. You call also call my office The Rosato Plastic Surgery Center for more information and any questions. 562-5859 or www.rosatoplasticsurgery.com