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Aging affects your body in a variety of ways you may not always enjoy. If you’re wondering what to do about changes to the skin on your face, such as baggy, puffy, or dark eyes, we’re here to help. Dr. Apesos offers a wide variety of therapies, surgeries, and other procedures that can help you combat the effects of aging, especially when combined with lifestyle changes. We have been passionate about helping patients achieve tighter, younger-looking skin for over 30 years; we can help you choose from a variety of treatment options to minimize baggy, puffy, or dark eyes in a way that best meet your needs. Causes of Baggy, Puffy, or Dark Eyes Aging is the main risk factor for changes in the appearance of the skin around your eyes. Like the rest of your body, the skin on your face goes through a variety of physical changes over time. As you age, the muscles and other tissues near your eyes, and on the rest of your face, weaken. These weaker muscles can cause the skin that surrounds your eyes to droop or appear baggy. They also make it easier for fat and other fluids to move around. This […]

If you spend hours perfecting your makeup every day, you’ve probably asked yourself questions; is there’s a better way to get that great look without the time commitment? Permanent makeup might be the answer you’re looking for. Read on to learn more about the different kinds of permanent makeup and if the procedure is right for you. What Is Permanent Makeup? Getting a permanent makeup procedure is very similar to getting a tattoo. Instead of choosing a design to put on your body, though, a dermatologist, plastic surgeon, or makeup tattoo artist applies ink where you’d normally put your makeup. A fine needle injects ink into the skin, leaving behind permanent cosmetics that enhances your features just as cosmetic products would. In medical terms, this procedure is known as micropigmentation. The most common types of permanent makeup include: Eyeliner Lip liner and lip color Eyebrows Before deciding to get permanent makeup, be sure to find a technician with all the necessary licenses and certifications. Schedule an appointment to talk to the technician about the procedure and share important information like your medical history. Let them know if you have any allergies or have had an adverse reaction to a tattoo […]

COVID-19 probably wasn’t on your radar when you first started thinking about having plastic surgery. You may be wondering if now is the right time to proceed with your plans in light of current events. If you have a preexisting appointment or are planning on making an appointment in the near future, rest assured that we are taking steps to keep our office safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. Whether you’re still in the planning stages, are about to have a procedure, or are currently recovering from plastic surgery, we’re here to safely support you. We are paying close attention to current CDC guidelines for medical practices and incorporating them into our office policies to best protect our patients and our team members. With these recommendations in mind, we are able to continue providing safe procedures during this unprecedented time to help you become the best version of yourself. How We Accommodate Social Distancing Coming into contact with as few people as possible is the first step in stopping the spread of COVID-19. With that in mind, we have implemented several new pandemic policies which support social distancing in our office. First and foremost, we are proud to offer TeleHealth appointments […]

Cryolipolysis, commonly called CoolSculping, is a fat reduction technique which freezes fat cells. This technology is FDA-approved and is safe and effective. Maybe you consider yourself to be a health-conscious person. You try to eat a balanced diet, get adequate exercise, and make good lifestyle choices. But even though you have healthy habits, you don’t feel you look your best. No matter how much physical activity you do or how conscious you are about the foods you eat, certain areas of your body just don’t seem to change. By your teen years and into adulthood, people generally have a set amount of fat cells. As you gain weight, the fat cells expand, and as you lose weight, they shrink. So even though eating healthy and exercising can cause you to trim down, there are certain areas of the body where it may be hard to lose weight no matter how diligent you are. Gender, genetics, or age can play a role in the struggle to lose weight. Additionally, women may be more prone to store fat in the thighs and buttocks. In contrast, men may develop an issue with added pounds in their midsection. Whether you’re a man or a […]

When most people think about varicose veins, they think about dark veins running over a woman’s legs. However, it can happen to men too! It is also more than just a cosmetic problem. It can really affect a person. For this reason, it is important to understand everything that you can about this disease. Here are some FAQs that you may have about varicose veins. What causes people to get varicose veins? Varicose veins happen because the valves in your veins are weakened or damaged. These valves help to keep blood flowing in the right direction. As the valves become weakened, the blood backs up and collects in one area, causing varicose veins. People who are on their feet all day are more susceptible because this puts extra pressure on the veins in their legs, which can weaken the valves even more. Do men get varicose veins? If so, how many are affected? Though most people think of women when they think about varicose veins, an Edinburgh Vein Study that was done in 2003 found that almost forty percent of males have varicose veins. This is compared to thirty-two percent of women. That being said, there are studies that show […]

Most women find themselves trying a short cut at least once in their life. However, after the novelty of it wears off, they are struggling to grow it back out. This process can seem to take forever, especially when you are stuck in some awkward stages. So, what can you do if it seems like your hair is growing out too slowly? Here are some things to consider. Drink enough water Dehydration can really mess with your body, even your hair. In fact, a quarter of your hair is made out of water. If you are drinking enough, you may be losing hair instead of growing it! Get your hair trimmed on a regular basis Though this may seem counter-intuitive, the truth is that trims can help our hair grow better! By getting rid of your damaged hair and split ends, your hair will be healthier and more likely to grow. Use products that help nourish your hair You should talk to your stylist to make sure that you are using the correct products in your hair. You are going to want something that is going to nourish your stressed hair, instead of making it worse! In fact, you may […]

Our hands do a lot. We rely on our hands for everything from cooking, typing, crafting, expressing ourselves through art and music, to caring for others. We want our hands to look graceful and beautiful, but let’s face it: we also expect our hands to function daily. Our hands are on full display, so we want to care for them and may even receive routine manicures with embellished nail polish and nail art. But, our hands are one of the first things to show our age. So, how do we turn back the clock and keep our hands looking youthful and lovely? What causes our hands to age? Well, age itself, of course, gets most the blame for hands looking older. As we age, we naturally start losing more and more collagen. Collagen gives our skin its flexibility and suppleness. This loss of collagen shows up most notably on the hands. The skin on our hands naturally starts out thinner, and then if you add all the work and activity we expect our hands to do, we can see why the loss of collagen makes such a difference. Sun damage represents another factor that especially affects the hands. Damaging UV […]

Everyone loves the idea of having smooth, glowing skin throughout their lives. But many of us find that our skin is aging along with us. In fact, skin may age even more quickly than one might expect. The good news is, however, that that is not the end of the story. Take a moment to look over these six steps to a younger face to discover which ones you already practice and which you need to incorporate into your life. Step #1: Make healthy lifestyle choices for a younger face.  You know, this is the thing that all doctors will tell you. And Dr. Apesos is no different. One of the best ways to keep your skin looking youthful is to stay healthy in general. Drink water. Eat your greens (and skip the ice cream now and then). Go outside. Put on sunscreen. You’ve heard this before. But health professionals say these things for a reason. When you make a habit of healthy living, your skin will show it. Step #2: Cultivate stress-relieving habits.  Many wrinkles, dark spots, and other signs of aging can show up on your skin due to stress. Thus, a battle against stress is a battle […]

While a rhinoplasty isn’t the most invasive procedure that you can undergo, like any surgery, it is important to prepare for it. When you make the decision to undergo a nose job, your cosmetic surgeon will go through the list of pre-operation instructions with you. It is important to follow them. However, if you want the procedure to go as smoothly as possible, consider these tips to help prepare for your rhinoplasty procedure. Stop Smoking You will want to try your hardest to stop smoking at least two weeks before your surgery. Nicotine slows down the healing process so it is important to keep it out of your system until everything is fully healed. Prepare for Dry Mouth After Your Rhinoplasty Procedure You don’t know how much you breathe out of your nose until you can’t breathe out of it anymore, right? Fully anticipate that after the procedure is done, you will have a dry mouth due to increased breathing out of your mouth. It is recommended to get some lip balm and have some cool water to keep it moist. Change Your Sheets After your rhinoplasty procedure, you will want to go right to bed, and perhaps stay there […]

Every man wants those hard, sculpted pectoral muscles on their chest. Unfortunately, sometimes things don’t work out that way. Instead of rock-hard chest muscles, some men find themselves saddled with floppy man boobs. No matter how hard they exercise or how much mass they add to their pecs at the gym, these pockets of flab just won’t go away. If this describes your chest, then unfortunately you have gynecomastia. It is widely believed that the colloquially known “man boobs” of gynecomastia are caused by being overweight. However, while being overweight can cause them, typically dropping the weight will cause them to go away too. If you are in even relatively good shape, but still have a soft, poorly formed chest, then you have gynecomastia. And it should probably be addressed. What Causes Gynecomastia? If you have a soft chest caused by gynecomastia, then the likely cause is an imbalance in hormones. Both men and women are made up of male and female hormones, but have them in different levels. Gynecomastia is when you have too much estrogen and not enough male hormones to balance it out. Typically, this is why babies (or boys in early puberty) will have soft chest […]

You’ve tried it all – lipstick, gloss, and every other lip product under the sun; everything that’s advertised to make your lips look fuller and better contoured. Nothing has worked! You’ve just succeeded in wasting lots of money on a dream of full lips. However, the thin lips you were born with aren’t going to get any fuller on their own. In fact, as you age, it is likely they are going to get worse, manifesting other undesirable traits like wrinkles. Thin lips not only limit your available cosmetic options, but they make it so you constantly look like you are in a bad mood. If you want to stop mean mugging everyone you meet accidentally with thin, severe-looking lips, then it may be time to consider lip augmentation. If there is one cosmetic procedure that those open to cosmetic surgery may seek to avoid, it could be lip augmentation. At this point, we have all seen the joke on TV – about the woman with augmented lips that looks like she got stung by a bee. Yes, it’s funny, but that is not what lip augmentation is. While this is something you may want to avoid, only bad plastic […]

Your skin is the biggest organ in your body. That means it is pretty important! It is crucial to keep your skin in good shape. But, if we are honest, we often leave our skin to take care of itself. It’s time to start caring for our skin! Here are six habits to avoid: Habit #1: Forgetting to put on sunscreen.  We often do not realize how much our skin is exposed to harmful sun rays. Of course, getting sunshine is good for both our mood and our overall health. But if we want to talk about overall health, we need to take our skin into account. Too much exposure to sun can and will damage your skin cells. The damage will start slow; but five or ten years down the road, you will wish you had taken better care of your skin. Remember that even when it is cloudy, sun rays can still seep through. So take a minute before you go outside to put on sunscreen. It will be worth it. Habit #2: Eating processed food.  Believe it or not, our eating habits make a big difference for the health of our skin. The processed foods that you […]

Choosing to get liposuction is can be an exciting, and oftentimes scary, decision. Preparing your body and mind for your procedure is almost as important as the surgery itself. Before you get liposuction, here are a few things to keep in mind: Get a medical examination In order to verify that you are in good health and ready for this procedure, your personal physician should complete a health history and physical exam. This is not only for your protection, but for your peace of mind as well. Make sure to bring this with you to your liposuction appointment, or send it beforehand if required. Note your medicine intake Make sure your doctor knows all of the medicines and natural health products you are currently taking, because they may increase risks during surgery. Your doctor may require that you stop taking all drugs, medicines, herbs and non-prescribed vitamins, including aspirin or Tylenol, before surgery. Make sure you understand the process Before you scare yourself with online videos, ask your doctor to explain the liposuction process so you know what to expect. This will give you a checklist for things to look out for before and after your surgery and give your […]

New beauty products seem to be hitting the market every day. With the global cosmetic market growing at a rate of four percent annually, it is no surprise that the beauty products market is projected to reach over $805 billion USD by 2023. With so many products available to consumers, it is important to separate those products that are proven to be effective from those that promise unsubstantiated results. Below are five tips to help you find beauty products that actually work. 1) Look for beauty products which are approved by the FDA FDA approval is not required for all types of beauty products. But there is sometimes a fine line separating cosmetics from drugs, which DO require FDA approval. For instance, beauty products that are intended to remove wrinkles or increase collagen are treated like drugs or medical devices by the FDA, and must be FDA approved before they are marketed to Americans: “Under the law, cosmetics must be safe when consumers use them according to product labeling, or the way in which the products are customarily used. But the law does not require cosmetics to be approved by FDA before they go on the market. Drugs, however, must have FDA approval for both […]

There is a certain misconception that breast augmentation is only a popular choice for trophy wives or models. While both certainly might look into it for a bigger bust and more confidence, in truth plastic surgeons more often see another sort of clientele when it comes to breast augmentation: mothers. Due to the aging stigma that used to be prevalent about plastic surgery — how it makes you somehow unpleasantly superficial to have your body look good — mothers who undergo breast augmentation don’t like to talk about it, but it is often needed after they have children. The process of growing a child and nursing it really does a number on a mother’s breasts. Many mothers undergo what is referred to as breast ptosis after pregnancy, a term used by the medical community to refer to breast sagging. The more children you have and nurse, the worse that sagging is going to get. No amount of postpartum exercise or diet is going to reverse the process of sagging; it can make women feel incredibly uncomfortable in their own skin. Some mothers may accept it as just a reality they have to live with. But that’s not actually true since… […]

Even though I’ve never been overweight, I have always struggled with a soft jawline. Several members of my family have double chins, so I know there is a genetic component; and my jaw is small to begin with. Over time, I developed the habit of reflexively sticking my tongue to the roof of my mouth every time a camera was pointed at me to avoid the unflattering bulge, and I even tried to do neck and chin exercises intended to make the chin area more taught. I practiced posture and poses, minimized sugar in my diet, and began to work out regularly, but the issue got even worse after the birth of my daughter. I gained 25 pounds during pregnancy, and lost them over the course of a year; but no amount of diet and exercises seemed to affect my double chin. The Resolution Finally I decided to schedule a plastic surgery consultation. The surgeon took pictures of me from the front and profile view, and recommended that I get chin liposuction. He also suggested that I get a small implant designed to smooth out my prejowl sulcus. These are grooves along the sides of the jaw that can exaggerate […]

When scheduling your liposuction appointment with a plastic surgeon, often we are a little nervous. Thus we ask what we should do to prep for the procedure. It always feels better to know that you have prepared before your liposuction as best you can, right? However, what we should be asking is what we shouldn’t do before liposuction. Most plastic surgeons will go over crucial things to do as well as what not to do before your liposuction. There are also a few smaller issues that you should know to avoid as well. While you should avoid everything your plastic surgeon tells you to, the general rule of thumb is that if you aren’t sure you should do it, you probably shouldn’t. The key to any plastic surgery procedure is to spend the night before the procedure just relaxing and not stressing out. Shaving Before Your Liposuction You can still shave your legs and underarms before your liposuction procedure if you so choose. However, if you think your incision site is a little too hairy and want to trim it up – don’t. This can occasionally cause ingrown hairs or impart bacteria from your razor that can invite infection to […]

Veins are a crucial part of our body. They are responsible for carrying blood throughout every inch of our tissue. However, while most of the time, our veins don’t bother us one bit, there are certain conditions where our veins that should be hidden on the inside begin to affect our outside appearance. However, you don’t just have to live with unsightly veins marring your skin, if you want to change painful or visually displeasing veins, a good plastic surgeon can help through a procedure known as sclerotherapy. How The Sclerotherapy Process Works? Varicose veins, spider veins, and even just overly large bulging veins can all look pretty terrible on what otherwise should be our smooth, pristine skin. However, through sclerotherapy, they can be completely treated making it so they disappear completely. In this procedure, the veins are injected with a chemical foam that closes them up. That vein tissue is then reabsorbed by the body and those unsightly veins are gone forever. Not only will soreness of varicose veins be gone and the discoloration of spider veins, but you won’t even have the pale blue shadow of a vein snaking under your skin once the re-absorption process is completed. […]

You eat right, exercise and have a pretty healthy lifestyle. Still, you have not ended up with the silhouette you have been hoping to achieve. You have decided to invest in liposuction to rid yourself of a few stubborn areas. You should know what to expect as you prepare for your procedure. Your Health You may be asked to have a medical exam or lab work. Your doctor will ask about your family history and your medical history. Tell your doctor about any prescriptions you take, as well as any supplements or herbal treatments. You will be signing a release that states you are aware of the risks, benefits and any alternatives associated with your procedure. Your Weight You should be at a stable weight. You will be having fat cells removed from your problem areas, but the fat will come back if you gain weight. Additional fat may distribute elsewhere on your body to accommodate for the sculpted areas. Maintaining your weight will make your procedure permanent. Medications It may be suggested that you stop taking any anti-inflammatory medication prior to surgery. This includes over- the- counter products like aspirin and ibuprofen. These medications can thin the blood and […]

Are you asking yourself if plastic surgery is right for you? What actually causes people to feel the need for aesthetic, cosmetic surgery? Many people think about what it would be like to change something they don’t like about their appearance. While some people are satisfied with their looks, a growing number are taking control of their appearance, choosing plastic surgery to correct imperfections and improve their self-esteem and confidence. Whatever the reason, more people than ever are reporting that they are unhappy with the way they look. This is a trend for both women and men. Moreover, studies have shown that happiness is often linked to a person’s self-perception of physical attractiveness. Therefore, it should not be surprising that most patients are pleased with the results of their surgery and report feeling better about themselves. That said, patient satisfaction is closely linked to expectations. While plastic surgery can help improve feelings of self-esteem, self-worth, and confidence, those people who expect a complete and total transformation can become disappointed. Therefore, it is important to consult a qualified plastic surgeon about various procedures and options. A skilled and experienced surgeon will design procedures based on a patient’s needs. Very often, a combination of surgical and non-surgical procedures will produce the best […]

While breast augmentation has been around for a long time, they continue to grow in popularity. In fact, the aesthetic procedure has grown in popularity even in the last decade. Regardless, despite its popularity and prevalence, there are many misconceptions and myths that still exist. These myths are often because of sensationalized journalism, a rare or unusual occurrence, or outdated information which is no longer relevant. So, today’s article tackles and tries to dispel some of the most common breast augmentation myths. Common Myths About Breast Augmentation 1. Breast Augmentation Can Cause Cancer – This is simply untrue. The myth began in the 1980s, when a citizen’s group out of Washington, D.C. warned of signals that silicone breast implants could cause cancer. However, there has never been a scientific link between an increased risk of breast cancer and implants. 2. After a Certain Age, a Woman Should Not Get Implants – The fact of the matter is women of any age can be a good candidate for breast augmentation. An experienced plastic surgeon can review all your options. Regardless, age is not a prime factor, and women over 40 can and do have breast implants. 3. Breast Implants Need Replaced Every 7 to 10 Years – If and […]

Today’s article was inspired by an email received from a prospective patient. The young woman was speculating about a possible risk of “cell mutation” and cancer as a potential side effect of the CoolScupting procedure. What we can tell you with absolute certainty is that there has been no link made between CoolScupting and cancer. CoolScupting is a nonintrusive aesthetic procedure that targets only fat cells and leaves skin and muscle tissue unaffected. There is simply no connection between CoolScupting and cancer. During the procedure, a special tool is used to cool the targeted area of your body, reducing it to a freezing temperature. This freezes and kills only fat cells in that specific area of your body. Within a short period of time after the treatment, these lifeless fat cells will naturally break down and will be flushed out of your body as waste. Moreover, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved CoolSculpting as a safe. This is not to say there are no side effects. However, they all tend to be mild and short-lived. A patient can experience aching, pain, or stinging at the treatment site, which can last up to two weeks. The cold temperatures can also cause swelling, bruising, redness, and skin […]

There are many people who ask, “Can CoolSculpting be used on the face and neck?” You may be familiar with the story of children developing dimples because of frozen popsicles. Regardless, the science of safely removing fat using cold technology is sound for any party of the body. The only challenge is the creation of an applicator specifically designed for the face, cheeks, and neck. Currently, there is work to develop applicator devices and techniques for other areas of the body. However, at the moment, an applicator for the face and neck does not exist. It is simply an issue of waiting for the technology to catch up with the science. As new CoolSculpting’s tools are added, doctors will be able to treat the neck, chin, face, and cheeks. That said, Dr. Apesos has more than thirty years experience performing cosmetic procedures, liposuction, and the contouring of the chin and neck. He has the ability to tighten the jawline and neck, and he can provide you with the streamlined look you want. Additionally, Dr. Apesos offers midface lifts, cheek implants, chin implants, and other facial procedures. Ultimately, while the CoolSculpting is not available at this time, it is coming soon. […]

Are you worried that CoolSculpting has a risk of permanent nerve damage? During a patient’s initial consultation, they are informed about some side effects, which can include short-term pain, swelling, bruising, and maybe a pins and needles sensation. Despite this information, some are unprepared. Moreover, some people have a more extreme response than others. This can manifest concerns in some who worry about the pain and the inflammation. There are examples on online forums of people asking for help. Therefore, today’s article answers the question, “Does CoolSculpting cause nerve damage?” Some patients will suffer short-term discomfort, pain, or numbness. While different individuals will have different tolerance levels to these side-effects, CoolSculpting has been cleared by the FDA and is considered safe and effective. Moreover, there are no known instances of CoolSculpting causing permanent nerve damage. In fact, while some side-effects can last several weeks, none are known to be permanent. Regardless, there are some people who are not ideal candidates for CoolSculpting. It is important to disclose any health conditions prior to the procedure. This would include health problems such as any known sensitivity to cold, impaired circulation, post-herpetic neuralgia or diabetic neuropathy, impaired skin sensitivity, or bleeding disorders. Ultimately, […]

New clients walk into our office every day with one question: Is CoolSculpting better than liposuction? Fundamentally, this is the wrong question to ask. The better inquiry is which treatments are you a better candidate and achieves your goal. While both will permanently remove fat cells from the body, the similarities end there.  All things considered, your needs and goals will dictate which body sculpting procedure is right for you. You should beware those selling one-size-fits-all solutions. Each has advantages and disadvantages. Here is a general list. Procedure Type – Liposuction is a surgical procedure that requires anesthesia, while CoolSculpting is noninvasive. Best for Treating – CoolSculpting works best for small to moderate trouble spots. On the other hand, liposuction works well on larger deposits and fine-tuning surgical results. Target Areas – Liposuction works great for the abdomen, waist, hips, buttocks, thighs and most areas. CoolSculpting works well for the upper and lower abdomen, back, and inner thighs. Results – A single CoolSculpting treatment can reduce the size of a bulge, while liposuction will produce more dramatic and immediate results. Downtime – Many times, with liposuction, it will take a week before you can return to regular active and another 6 weeks for vigorous exercise. CoolSculpting has no downtime at all. Repeated Treatments – In most instances, CoolSculpting achieves […]

Skin tightening and firming products are one of the largest aspects of the skin care and cosmetic industry.  With so many options on the market, it’s challenging knowing what to look for.  What works well for one person may not be the best option for another.  Before settling on a new skin product, keep these 3 basic questions in mind.  1.) What type of skin do I have Everyone’s skin is very different.  While some individuals have extremely dry and course skin, others may have very oily and rich skin texture.  Most people are a combination of these extremes with varying textures throughout their body.  Before deciding on a new skin product, always keep your specific skin type in mind.  Product success may vary widely based on your skin textures.  If you’re unsure about your skin type, consider visiting a skin specialist for answers.  2.) How much success have others had with this product Always check into product reviews and consumer reports when looking for a new skin care product.  Finding out how well it worked for someone else is key in deciding whether a product is a good match for yourself.  Look for impartial reviews and recommendations. If you […]

For many, the promise of CoolSculpting is just too good to be true. How many times have you seen a weight loss advertisement that claims to melt fat away? It never fails. At the end of those commercials is always a disclaimer stating results require diet and exercise. So, is it the miracle weight loss supplement producing the results or the diet and exercise program? Therefore, it is not uncommon for a person to ask, “Does CoolSculpting require a strict diet and exercise program?” The answer is no. CoolSculpting is a procedure that can quite legitimately be described as causing the fat to melt away. When you use weight loss supplements, low-calorie diets, and intense workouts, you are burning calories. By burning more calories than you consume, you are forcing the body to release the energy stored in fat cells. Over time, and with continual effort, those fat cells become smaller, but they do not go away. On the other hand, CoolSculpting causes actual “cell death” of fat in the treated area. The cells are then absorbed into the system, and passes from the body as waste. Once cell death occurs, the fat cells are gone forever. That said, diet, exercise, and an overall healthy lifestyle will optimize CoolSculpting results. […]

One important aspect of being happy with CoolSculpting results is having reasonable expectations, which is true for all aesthetic procedures. Therefore, it is important to understand who is a good candidate. CoolSculpting is a cosmetic treatment that will destroy fat cells. In very simple terms, the procedure makes use of controlled cooling for a non-invasive reduction of stubborn fat deposits, effectively reshaping body contours. It works because of the cold causing cell death of the fat tissue, but it does not create injury to the skin or muscle. For many, CoolSculpting is a safe and effective non-surgical alternative to liposuction. In determining if you are a good candidate for CoolSculpting, there is some good news and bad news. At first glance, the good news is that if you are without any serious health issues or pregnant, then you are likely able to receive treatment. The bad news is that further evaluating yourself will make you acutely aware of your physical condition and the fatty spots on your body. However, if you are already aware of your pudgy chunks, then there is nothing to lose. Firstly, you are not a good candidate if you have a BMI of 34 or more. Essentially, those who are “severely obese” will need to start a weight loss […]

One of the most frequently asked questions about CoolSculpting is, “How long before I see results with CoolSculpting?” Many people are familiar with the fast results of other cosmetic fat loss procedures, like liposuction. While the nonsurgical procedure itself in generally short, roughly an hour in many instances, it may take a few weeks to start seeing results. However, it will take 3-4 months for full effect, and likely multiple sessions to reach your goal. A single CoolSculpting procedure will take approximately an hour for each treated area, working each area that is roughly hand size. Accordingly, each of your “love-handles” is a separate area, and your lower abdomen is often segmented into two areas. Therefore, you can schedule more than one treatment area within a single office visit. If you want to treat two areas, you will need a little more than two hours. CoolSculpting eliminates around 25 percent of the fat cells per procedure. So, many will also benefit from multiple sessions. The fat cells that the CoolSculpting procedure targets are frozen, destroyed, and then later absorbed by the body. As a result, those fat cells are gone forever. Regardless, since it will take about 3-4 months for full results, you can schedule […]

Take a moment to think about today’s fashions: form-fitting dresses, jeans, t-shirts. These garments make it almost impossible to camouflage bulges. Moreover, no matter how much you work at maintaining a healthy weight, many find that lumpy fat deposits never completely going away. It is no wonder that so many people are looking to CoolSculpting and liposuction for a solution. But which one is best?  The quick answer is both are an effective solution, if you are a qualified candidate. Regardless, depending on your situation and needs, one choice is better than another. CoolSculpting and liposuction do both eliminate unwanted fat cells from your body. However, there are some significant differences in the procedures. Understanding the difference between CoolSculpting and liposuction will help you make a better choice. The most significant distinction is surgical versus non-surgical. CoolSculpting is a non-surgical treatment. It uses a scientifically proven cooling process to kill and dissolve fat cells, without negatively impacting your other tissues. In comparison, liposuction is a surgical process, where an incision is made and then the fat cells (and other tissue) is extracted from the body. Furthermore, CoolSculpting’s controlled cooling targets only fat cells. While liposuction will affect fat cells, but may impact other adjacent tissue. Moreover, CoolSculpting is not as […]

As those with varicose veins know, they are frequently painful, although in different ways. One person might feel burning while another experiences a throbbing sensation and a third endures cramping. The good news is there are procedures available for treating varicose veins.

Micro-needling. The name sounds a little scary — maybe painful too. So what exactly is it and how can it help my skin? Micro-needling is done with a small, hand-held tool called a derma roller, a device covered with numerous closely spaced tiny sterile needles. As the technician rolls it across the skin, the derma roller makes tiny holes in the skin’s top layer. Although it sounds like it could be painful, the light pressure used usually ensures that any discomfort is minor, and a topical anesthetic is often used to minimize it further. The technical name for the procedure is Collagen Induction Therapy or CIT. What Does It Do? Micro-needling creates what are known as “controlled injuries” beneath the surface of the skin. In response, the body produces collagen to repair the damage, resulting in a plumper, smoother surface layer. It minimizes the appearance of fine lines, scars from acne or injuries, and stretch marks. Is It Effective? Studies have shown that CIT is especially effective in treating scars (even fairly deep ones) when combined with 15% trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peel. Its skin-smoothing and firming abilities have also been shown to be effective, especially when combined with Vitamin C. […]

Weight loss is an ongoing struggle for many Americans. Exercise and diet are not always sufficient to achieve a toned physique – even those who practice fitness regularly and maintain healthy eating habits sometimes experience stubborn areas of fat accumulation. In addition, it is well documented that spot reduction doesn’t work – according to Yale Scientific, fat reduction tends to be generalized after exercise; it doesn’t selectively target the area that has been exercised. The development of coolsculpting has an interesting history. In Massachusetts General Hospital, Dr. Dieter Manstein and Dr. R. Rox Anderson made note of the “popsicle panniculitis” – a phenomenon of fat loss in the cheeks in children who are frequent ice or popsicle-eaters. They applied the principle toward fat loss in other areas of the body, using the targeted application of cold to lower the tissue temperature to about 40 degrees. This causes the fat cells of interest to die without harming nearby organs or skin. The procedure can generally be expected to reduce the fat cells in the treated area by about 20%. The results are not instant, taking two to four months for the final results to be apparent, but the lack of anesthesia, surgery, or needles, or downtime make it […]

In 2014, 1.26 million men had some type of cosmetic procedure done. Four hundred thousand of those men had Botox injections. The numbers show that this is an increase of 300 percent in the male use of Botox. Why are men suddenly using Botox? One reason men are using Botox all of a sudden is the increase in competition over jobs. Between December 2007 and June 2009, the U.S. was going through a depression and millions of jobs were lost. After the recession in July of 2009, the unemployment rate of men aged 16 and over was 9.8%. In August 2016, the rate in the same age group had been reduced to 4.5%. As the country emerged from this recession, men started using whatever means they deemed necessary to give themselves an advantage in the workplace. According to Dr. Scot Glasberg, President of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, men are “wanting to look a little younger to get a job more easily. First impressions are everything in an interview.” Looking younger gives them more confidence going into an interview situation and means that they may be chosen over someone who appears older. A youthful appearance implies a fresh outlook and a sharp mind. The […]

Do you have deep creases between your nose and the corners of your lips? Known as nasolabial folds, these creases can age your appearance and distract from an otherwise youthful face. Thankfully, there is a way to erase them without undergoing surgery. Juvederm is an injectable filler that helps many patients erase nasolabial folds and achieve a more youthful appearance. What is Juvederm and how does it work? The main active ingredient in Juvederm is a substance called hyaluronic acid. This is a substance that is naturally found in your skin. It gives your skin firmness and elasticity, but as you age, the amount of hyaluronic acid in your skin tends to decrease. This leads to creases like your nasolabial folds. Injecting Juvederm into these folds increases the concentration of hyaluronic acid in the area, filling in your folds and giving your skin a youthful, plump appearance. What can you expect when you have Juvederm injected? Your doctor will evaluate your health history and your desired results to make sure Juvederm is a safe and effective choice for you. If you’re worried about discomfort, your doctor may apply a numbing cream to keep you comfortable. Then, Juvederm will be injected […]

Are the veins in your hands too prominent or visible? Dark or overly puffy veins can make otherwise toned, attractive hands look aged. Luckily, you can get rid of your prominent veins and restore a more youthful look with sclerotherapy, a popular vein removal method. What is sclerotherapy? During sclerotherapy, your dermatologist injects a special chemical into the unwanted veins. The chemical causes the vein to close, and over the coming weeks, your body absorbs the dead vein tissue. Before long, those veins you once hated will no longer be visible. The procedure usually only takes about 20 minutes. Does sclerotherapy hurt? The pain and discomfort are quite mild. Your doctor may use a local anesthetic or numbing gel to keep you comfortable during the procedure. You might feel a slight pinching when the needle is inserted into your veins and a bit of a burning sensation as the chemical begins working to close your veins. What is the recovery process like? After sclerotherapy, your hands might be slightly swollen and bruised. These side effects should go away within a few days, and they aren’t likely to keep you from partaking in activities you love. Most patients don’t need to […]

Aging is a natural process and a fact of life, but bad habits early in life can cause an acceleration that makes men and women look older than their years. Regret is a common reaction, but all the hindsight in the world won’t reverse the damage. Everybody knows about the most common plastic surgery techniques as well as less invasive procedures that can help, but what about skin tightening and firming products — can they really make a difference? For most of the products in the general marketplace, the answer is no. Some offer modest help, but few deliver the benefits they promise. That’s not to say that there aren’t some good products out there, but they tend to be few and far between. Your dermatologist or plastic surgeon are good sources for products that are likely to deliver real results. That’s because they have a thorough understanding of the problems presented by aging skin, and know what ingredients and formulations are most likely to correct or at least dramatically improve them. In general, a top priority is UV protection, since sun damage is one of the major causes of lines, wrinkles, and discoloration. Good UV protection will prevent further […]

What should a person do when they dieted and worked out, to maintain a healthy weight, but there are still areas of fat that just won’t go away? Liposuction is a cosmetic produce for the purpose of body shaping and can help you achieve your aesthetic goals. It removes surplus fat from under the skin using suction. While the results are physical, some of the benefits can also be mental and emotional. Thanks to advancements in technology and the procedure, liposuction is safer than it has ever been. Nonetheless, only a consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon can inform you if it is right in your situation. Regardless, liposuction is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures because it is an effective way to remove excessive fat, and a compliment to a breast augmentation or other plastic surgery. The benefits of liposuction include: A safe way to eliminate fat, Body shaping that even exercise cannot achieve, Reduction and improvement of cellulite, Improved health associate with fat loss, Improvement to the way you look, and Increased self-esteem. If you are trying to eliminate unsightly pockets of fat around the midsection, thighs, or other difficult and frustrating areas, diet and exercise are sometimes not enough. Many times, […]

As we have blogged about in the past, sclerotherapy is a long-established and effective treatment for the removal of spider veins and varicose veins. Medical professionals have been using this procedure, which has gone largely unchanged, since the 1930s. Moreover, sclerotherapy has a proven success rate.  If you are considering the removal of spider veins and varicose veins, we would like to share the main benefits of sclerotherapy. Sclerotherapy is a cosmetic procedure. While the procedure can improve symptoms like aches, burning and swelling, for most people spider veins and varicose veins are a cosmetic issue. Varicose veins often appear dark purple or blue and are bulging and twisted. For both women and men, the problem can become unattractive and embarrassing. The biggest benefit to patients is sclerotherapy is an effective non-surgical procedure. According to the Mayo Clinic, “Studies of sclerotherapy as a treatment for varicose and spider veins indicate that it has an overall success rate of about 60 to 80 percent in eliminating treated veins.” After treatment, small spider veins and varicose veins begin to disappear in 3 to 6 weeks. Larger veins may take several months. Nonetheless, veins treated with sclerotherapy don’t return once gone. Moreover, less than 10 percent of people will not respond to the therapy. Therefore, while new […]

I’m a mother of three. At 36, after birthing those children one after the other, my baby belly refused to go away. People often asked if I was pregnant again even though I wasn’t. I knew something had to change when my sister’s son asked if I had a baby in my tummy like his mother did at the time. I soon became uncomfortable in my own skin. It reached a point where it affected how I related to people, even my husband and my kids. One of my friends suggested plastic surgery, but the idea made me nervous. I spent a lot of time researching tummy tucks – what to expect and how they were done. I lost count of the number of blogs I read, how many videos I watched, and how many photos I looked at. When I finally decided to look up surgeons in the area, I found Dr. James Apesos’ website. It caught my attention that he was board-certified with many years of experience, and I liked that he shared before and after examples of his work. So I scheduled a consultation with him to discuss my questions and concerns. Dr. Apesos took the time […]

Many clients worry about looking “top-heavy” with breast augmentation. They want to know what size works best for them, without looking fake. Are there reliable and accurate tips for a choosing breast augmentation size? The way to choose breast augmentation size is selecting those that look they way you always imaged yourself. It may sound overly simplistic, but it all does come down to self-image. Your decision will have long-term consequences. You want to avoid picking a size and style you will regret, and may result in a re-operation. Every woman sees herself differently. What is too large for one person is too small for another. The first time you try gel implant sizers, you will get a good idea what you will actually look like. Your surgeon will guild you through the process, and technology allows us to create an understanding and helps shape your look. Many women want to look natural and don’t want it to appear like they had breast augmentation surgery. Accurate measurements will create reasonable limits. During the sizing process, your feedback will assist the surgeon. The decision is yours, but the surgeon makes recommendations based on your input. There are times a patient states a size is perfect. However, our experience will have us ask […]

You’ve probably heard the term, but what is sclerotherapy, exactly? Simply put, it’s a medical treatment that’s used to permanently remove spider and varicose veins. It’s a relatively straightforward procedure – a saline solution is injected directly into the vein. This irritates the blood vessel lining to make it swell together and clot the blood. Eventually, the vessel becomes scar tissue and fades away.