Plastic surgery is actually a reconstruction or restoration of deformed, destroyed and injured parts of the body. This corrective surgery improves the appearance of the patient and at the same time adds to the functionality of the once deformed, defective part. Thus, birth defects like cleft lips and palates, disfigurements resulting from accidents like burn-marks or for that matter a deformity acquired in the process of disease treatment (removal of one or both the breasts as part of breast cancer treatment) can be set right by plastic surgery specialists.

The history of plastic surgeries runs back to the days of the ancient Egyptians. The word ‘plastic’ in the name is derived from the Greek word plastikos, which means to form or mold. The molding surgery became popular after the First World War (countless casualties with body disfigurements was an aftermath of the war).

Plastic surgery is real surgery, involving cutting and stitching. Hence, the plastic surgery specialists always emphasize on the patients emotional and physical fitness in order to handle the stresses of surgery. Plastic surgeons, therefore, make it a point to check medical history of patients. An ideal plastic surgery specialist agrees to give a surgical treatment only if he/she finds that the patient is a perfect candidate – nearly the ideal age, ideal weight, not ailing and sticks to a healthy lifestyle. Thus, some surgeons will not perform certain procedures like Rhinoplasty (reshaping the nose) and breast implants on teens.

Plastic surgery costs are a bit exorbitant and especially if you go to a certified plastic surgeon. Nevertheless, considering the complexity involved, you should never be taking any risks. Moreover, if you are undergoing plastic surgery for the right reason (and surgery becomes a dire necessity) you shall have insurance coverage. In case you are opting for a cosmetic plastic surgery and simply want to undergo a metamorphosis from an ugly duckling to a beautiful angel, you will have to bear the costs.

Do not let yourself be fooled by each celebrity plastic surgery news! It may not be possible for you to check for the authenticity of the news but you know, there are simpler and safer ways of changing your looks and gaining confidence if you are thinking of plastic surgery as a makeover option.

For instance, TCA skin peels and laser treatments are external treatments that result in younger looking skin and can treat or even cure many skin conditions from acne and wrinkles to sagging skin and sun spots. TCA skin peels have been used in Hollywood by the stars for years on reality shows like The Swan, MTV’s Made, even on Oprah. Unlike Laser treatments, which are only available as a in office or spa treatment, TCA skin peels can now be purchased for at home treatment and they are considered to be the most effective spa treatment available by numerous plastic surgeons and dermatologists alike. For more information on TCA skin peels for home use and other spa treatments please see the link below.

Breast reduction for women, also referred to as a reduction mammoplasty, is a invacise treatment that involves the removal of extra fat, glandular tissue, from the breast thereby reducing breast size and weight.

Many who refer to the process of breast reduction also consider it to be a type of cosmetic surgery because the patient’s life is not at risk. In other words, there is not a significant life threatening condition that requires the reduction. However, there are instances where large breasts can bring on bodily pain and emotional anguish.

The common reasons that women undergo breast reduction is because it is a way of relieving or erasing of chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain.  In addition, there is less skin irritation in the breast creases, their appearance is enhanced, and their self confidence is raised. They discover that they are quickly able to try on clothes that actually fit nice. They are also able to engage in more sports activities that require running. researchers ahve also founf that there is some proof that breast reduction may reduce the likelihood of developing breast cancer.

The type of breast reduction surgical method that is used often will usually determine the outcome. After surgery, breasts will be much smaller. The outcome is immediate as patients have reported right away an improvement in comfort and less pain. Scars and swelling can vary and can last a varying amount of time. Scars can be covered using clothing, bras, and swim wear. Patients have reported that inside 30 days, their pain has almost completely diminished, their scars faded within about six months, their clothing fit better, and they have a higher self-image.

To see if you are eligible for breast reduction surgery, you will typically need a physician’s referral slip. A consultation with a cosmetic surgeon and maybe a psychiatrist will follow. They will evaluate you and ultimately decide if you do indeed qualify for the surgery. During the consultation, your surgeon will go over the risks associated with your particular case. Risks can include scarring and possibly different sized breasts, and the inability to breast feed. The surgical process will also be explained. Your skin condition, age, size, and breast shape are all important factors when evaluating your candidacy for surgery. The surgeon will then examine and take a photograph your breasts for use during surgery. It is not uncommon to have a mammogram.

Implant surgeons determines if you are a suitable candidate for teeth implants after deliberate evaluation of your medical and dental history.The implant procedure is designed to give your teeth the same natural effect both aesthetically and functionally. The success rate depends on the dentist you choose. Since implants would have impact on your general health and oral health, it is important that you select the right surgeon. A failure of a successful implant would lead to poor appearance of teeth and you will lose your self esteem.

Choosing your implant surgeon can make a lot of difference to the fate of your teeth and gums. Always be careful when it comes to choosing dentists for dental implants. Before giving a nod for dental implant surgery, you should know his experience, profile, qualification and percentage of success rate. Placing dental implants is a skilled job and if a dentist is not experienced enough, it may be a risk to your oral health.

Implant surgeons are required to undergo significant levels of training beyond normal dental work. Expertise develops with experience over the years. If you choose an implant dentist who is highly skilled in the areas of cosmetic dentistry and have an experience of quality time, your success percentage undoubtedly becomes high. After all it is a matter of your teeth and countenance appearance. You cannot take the risk with an inexperienced dentist because he would do the implant at discount cost.

Choose an implant dentist who is devoted to high quality care and provides prodigious individualized services to his or her patients. He or she must take time to understand your individual needs, your dental condition and evaluate your oral health. After that a good dentist always develops ideal treatment plans for dental implants.

A dentist or team of dentists with experience and a multidisciplinary approach to dental implants is the unique solution to your implant needs. Instead of a single dentist, if the implant process is carried by a team, the success rate is higher. The team which includes a board certified prosthodontist, an oral surgeon and a periodontist is the perfect team for dental implants. Such team work ensures comprehensive treatment planning for functional results.

When pockets of fat won’t come off through the traditional methods of diet and exercise, perhaps liposuction is the answer. This procedure can effectively remove those excess areas of fat, leaving a better body contour and a reduction of inches in areas like the buttocks and thighs. Liposuction has been an effective treatment option since it began in 1974, and the procedure continues to evolve into a safe, popular and effective way to shed fat. There are many good reasons to consider a liposuction treatment.

1. Safety and Comfort

Liposuction has come a long way since its early treatments, and today’s procedures are considered safe and painless for most patients. Depending on the type of liposuction treatment chosen and the extent of the area receiving attention, either a general or a local anesthetic may be offered. Most procedures are done on an outpatient basis and normal activities can usually resume within a week or two. This treatment boasts a good safety record and as long as a certified plastic surgeon is performing the procedure, risks are generally minimal.

2. Effectiveness

While diet and exercise are the preferred methods for healthy weight loss, there are times when liposuction may be necessary to eliminate remaining fat pockets that are too stubborn to respond well to traditional weight loss efforts. The good news is there are numerous liposuction procedures to choose from, ensuring that the most effective one can be used in each unique situation. Positive results will depend in part on whether the patient is a good candidate for the treatment going into the procedure and a qualified plastic surgeon can help make that determination.

3. Permanence

Unlike other types of cosmetic surgery that may require additional procedures to continue the positive results, liposuction permanently removes fat cells during the treatment. However, if weight is put back on after liposuction is done, the fat pockets can appear once again. The best way to ensure that results from a liposuction procedure are permanent is to stick with a healthy diet and regular exercise program that will keep the weight in check and promote a healthier lifestyle overall.

4. Choices

Because  liposuction has become such a popular procedure, there are many choices in regards to the specific procedure and the surgeon performing it. This broad choice makes it easy to find a doctor who makes the patient feel comfortable and has ample experience in the particular treatment that is being sought. Finding the right surgeon should include interviewing a few doctors in the area to find out how experienced they are and what their credentials might be. Many doctors will also provide before and after pictures of former patients so their work can be inspected first hand before any commitment is made. If a surgeon is not willing to disclose this information or exerts pressure on a patient to go forward with a procedure, this is probably not the best doctor to choose.

Liposuction can be an effective choice in cutting out the excess fat and enjoying a more attractive body contour. Check out the cosmetic surgeons in your area to see which one will be the best choice for your liposuction treatment.

As a member of the American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons, Dr. Victoria Vitale-Lewis has lectured and trained surgeons from around the world. She is a published author of a plastic surgery book on sclerotherapy and is a contributing author to The Womens Encyclopedia of Health and Emotional Healing. Dr. Vitale-Lewis is considered an expert in her signature “The Feminine Facelift.” Dr. Victoria Vitale-Lewis graduated Phi Beta Kappa from St. Louis University where she also obtained her medical degree from the School ofMedicine. Her general surgery and plastic surgery residencies were completed at St. Louis UniversityHospital. Additional training at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine enabled Dr. Vitale-Lewis to earn her fellowship in Microsurgery.

Dedicated to Your Personal Comfort

You are Dr. Victoria Vitale-Lewis’ top priority. You’ll receive personalized, individual attention throughout your experience. From the moment you enter our restored turn-of-the-century building, you’ll discover that everything is designed for your comfort. From the classic antique furnishings to our sophisticated surgical suite, we’ve designed a tranquil environment to ensure your comfort. Your wishes for privacy are also treated with respect. It is important that you have a positive experience.

Today 99% of cosmetic surgical procedures are accomplished on an outpatient basis. For those rare procedures requiring more than just a few hours of post-surgery recuperation, the center’s overnight room allows you to recover in the comfort of a home-like environment under the watchful eye of a trained nurse. For those patients wishing a hospital-based procedure, we are able to accommodate that request.

The Highest Standards of Excellence

The Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Center is a new facility designed for patient-focused care, personal comfort and medical excellence. The staff at the Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Center is selected by Dr. Vitale-Lewis to ensure continuity, caring and a team of highly skilled professionals. She has a team of highly trained nurses and technicians as well as a nurse practitioner who was personally trained by Dr. Vitale-Lewis on her techniques and philosophy. They are prepared to answer your questions and meet your needs before, during and after your surgery.

Dr. Vitale-Lewis’ state-of-the-art sophisticated outpatient surgery facility was created specifically for cosmetic plastic surgery. The surgical suite meets the highest standards of medical care, while focusing on your comfort and safety as a top priority. From the outside it looks like an elegant Southern home from an earlier century. Go inside, and you’ll find the utmost in high-tech cosmetic surgery. The Victorian home built in the 1890’s is decorated in soothing tranquility.

One way to make sure you’re delighted with the results of your surgery is to understand and communicate what you want and expect. Dr. Vitale-Lewis’ state of the art video imaging system helps manipulate your image in a computer and allows you to visualize different effects. Although the system won’t show exactly how you will look once you’ve had your surgery, it will give you an idea of the possibilities.

Consultation

If you are considering cosmetic surgery, you should be comfortable with the doctor you have chosen. Here at the Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Center, Dr. Victoria Vitale-Lewis wants you to know that you are important. She believes that the time you spend in your cosmetic consultation should be both thorough and informative.

This provides you with information on the procedure, estimated costs and discussion of finance options. Before and after pictures will be reviewed as well.

After you have seen the patient educator, if you feel you are ready to make the next step, we will schedule a consultation for you with Dr. Vitale-Lewis. There is a minimal fee for the doctor that is applied towards surgical costs. You will get a quote once your surgical plan is finalized.

We hope that you leave our office as an informed patient, excited about the future and its many possibilities. We are available for any follow up questions by phone or even for a second consultation to assist you in making your decision.

The cosmetic consultation is an important step in the process of considering cosmetic surgery. We understand more than anyone that a cosmetic consultation can be seen as an intimidating or daunting experience. Because of this, we take special care to ensure that our patients feel as comfortable and relaxed as possible in a professional, yet friendly atmosphere.

The goal of a cosmetic consultation at the Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Center is primarily to educate the patient about the procedures available to address their concerns, the process of preparing for the procedure(s), and the recovery period involved. We want to provide you with all the necessary information so that you can make an informed choice.

In order to make your dreams become a reality, you must take the first step – contact us to make an appointment for your cosmetic consultation.

Dr Victoria Vitale-Lewis is a Florida board-certified Plastic Surgeon. She specializes in cosmetic plastic surgery to enhance your appearance by re-contouring facial and body features. Whether you want to flatten your abdomen, enhance your breasts, slim your thighs or restore damaged, wrinkled skin, the Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Center offers procedures to boost your confidence and improve your appearance from head to toe. Procedures and treatments include:

Facial and Eyelid Surgery

Endoscopic Facelifts Mini-face lifts Upper/lower eyelid Chin/cheek implants Forehead lifts

Nasal Surgery

Rhinoplasty (nose) Nasal tip elevation

Cosmetic Facial Treatments

Dermabrasion Chemical peels Fraxel IPL/V-Beam CO2 Laser resurfacing

Breast Augmentation

Breast reduction Breast lifts Transumbilical (bellybutton)

Body Contouring

Liposuction and tummy tucks Lipolysis (mesotherapy) Endermologie (cellulite reduction)

Ear Surgery

Protruding ear correction

Sclerotherapy

Spider vein removal

Injectables

Botox Restylane and other fillers

Liposuction is the most commonly performed cosmetic plastic surgery in the United States. Liposuction is a relatively safe procedure that can have very desirable results for many people when it is performed by a highly trained and skilled plastic surgeon. However, liposuction is not a substitute for weight loss or dieting.

What Should I Look For in a Liposuction Surgeon?

Although liposuction is a simple concept, it is important you choose a highly qualified, skilled and experienced cosmetic surgeon. Your chosen surgeon should be a board certified plastic surgeon, which indicates your surgeon has had extra specialized training. Not all cosmetic plastic surgeons have these qualifications.

Your surgeon should have specialized training in body contouring. For the best result for your body, choose a surgeon who considers liposuction an area of their expertise. Ask your surgeon to show you before and after pictures of recent patients who have undergone liposuction.

Does your surgeon have a good reputation in your community? Ask other physicians and health care professionals about the liposuction surgeon you are considering. How many liposuction procedures has your chosen surgeon performed? A surgeon who performs three or four per week might prove to be more competent than a surgeon who performs only a few every year.

Now that people are taking smile correction as a confidence restoration treatment, there are many dentists who are coming up with specialized cosmetic dentistry treatments. One thing that the prospective patients have to keep in mind is not all the dentists excel in cosmetic dentistry services as this is a parameter on which they should conduct their search.

How to Choose a Right Cosmetic Dentist

The selection of a cosmetic dentist depends on the treatment that one wishes to acquire. The various cosmetic dentistry treatments include tooth whitening, dental binding, porcelain veneers, white filling, invisalign braces, tooth implants and complete mouth re-construction and rejuvenation. Irrespective of the treatment that one wishes to acquire, one must not compromise with the educational qualification and the experience.

The various steps that can be of great use while choosing an appropriate cosmetic dentist are:-

Verifying the license information Verifying the various certifications A glance at the previous patient’s testimonials Asking the dentist about the total number of years from which he has been practicing Confirming that only latest and safe equipments are used Knowing the possible risks and the ill effects of undergoing any particular cosmetic dentistry surgery. Checking out the before treatment and the after treatment photographs Determining the cost of the particular treatment A look at the basic amenities available at the dental hospital or clinic Confirmation about the emergency care services provided

If one feels that one has received a satisfactory answer to all the above mentioned questions, then one can be rest assured that one has chosen the right cosmetic dentist. If still a prospective patient has any apprehension, then there are lots of other factors that can be of good help in picking the right cosmetic dentist such as interacting with the current patient list and many more.

All these things if kept in mind can help one choose the right doctor and get ones beautiful smile back.

If you live in a major city like New York or Los Angeles, you should have a plethora of very qualified plastic surgeons to choose from. However, there are many talented plastic surgeons throughout North America. If you do not live in or very close to a major city, you still may be able to find a wonderful doctor to perform your surgery. However, if you live very far away from any major hospitals, you might have to travel to find a plastic surgeon who can perform your procedure. For more information on how to find plastic surgeons in your area, visit www.docshop.com.

How Can I Choose the Right Plastic Surgeon?

One of the best ways to find a good plastic surgeon is to rely on recommendations. Get in touch with other people who have already undergone the plastic surgery that you hope to have. Find out about the doctors they went to. If you keep hearing good things about one or two particular doctors, then do a little bit of research on them. You may have found your plastic surgeon!

Talk To Your Physician

Not only will your physician be able to tell you whether or not you are a good candidate for the surgery, but he or she might also be able to make some recommendations. Your doctor probably knows the medical community in your area very well. If there does not happen to be a good plastic surgeon in your area, your physician might be able to recommend well-respected plastic surgeons in other parts of the country. It is important to note that you should always speak to your physician before undergoing any procedures like plastic surgery.

Interview the Candidates

Once you have a list of possible plastic surgeons, do a little bit of research on their background. You may want to find out if the surgeons use the best and latest medical facilities and equipment. Ask to see each surgeon’s portfolio of before and after photos. Finally, make sure that you choose a doctor you feel comfortable with. You will need to speak to your surgeon very frankly about your reasons for undergoing the plastic surgery and your expectations from it. Therefore, it is best to work with a doctor with whom you feel comfortable.

Additional Assistance in Finding a Plastic Surgeon in Your Area

“I was on the Web sites as having the ugliest boob job in the world,” the American Pie actress said in an interview with Us magazine. Her boob job, she said, was to rectify the fact that she had asymmetrical breasts, while she had lipo to give her the six-pack she felt was out of her reach, despite diet and exercise.

“First of all, I asked for big Bs, and he [the surgeon] did not give me big Bs,” Reid said. “He gave me Cs, and I didn’t want them. At all. Right after the surgery, I had some bumps along the edges of my nipples, but the doctor said, ‘Don’t worry. It’s going to be better.’ But after six months of ‘it’s going to get better,’ it started to get worse and worse.

“Guys I was dating would be like, ‘What’s wrong with them? They look really bad. You know, you should really get them fixed.’ [It's so] embarrassing,” Reid said. “I mean, you definitely need to turn off the lights, that’s for sure.” Her tummy, she added, was “the most ripply, bulgy thing.”

Luckily, Tara had the foresight – and the money – to have reconstructive surgery, and says she was able to get her life on track. But many people don’t. The result of bad plastic surgery can be a lot worse than just a bumpy boob job – and can include infection, skin-eating necrosis, and sometimes even death.

So how can you find a good surgeon you trust?

Finding the Right Surgeon

Choosing the right surgeon for the job is arguably the most important decision you’ll make when it comes to having plastic surgery. The American Society for Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) offers the following guidelines when looking for the right person for the job:
Choose a Board-certified surgeon, one that is accredited by the ASPS or its equivalent. ASPS surgeons are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and have completed at least six years’ surgical training and experience (this includes 36 months or more in plastic surgery). They operate only in accredited medical facilities (not in their living rooms or a rented space adjacent to a nail salon) and continue updating their medical and educational qualifications. They are also duty-bound to adhere to a strict code of ethics.
Make sure he or she is willing to answer all your questions, and will do so thoroughly. If a surgeon fobs you off, is condescending or tells you “not to worry your pretty head about it”, then go somewhere else.
Ensure that your surgeon asks your opinion about the treatment recommended, and doesn’t pressure you into anything – or suggest hundreds of non-related procedures they can sell you at a bulk rate. They should also offer alternatives, when necessary and appropriate. If you’re 19 and considering a face lift, a good surgeon should offer non-invasive alternatives, such as a good facial or massage, and not give in to your demands.
Discuss all prices beforehand, and find someone who welcome questions from you about their payment policies. They will also be happy to answer any inquiries about their professional qualifications, what the procedure will entail etc.
Find someone who gives you all the information about the procedure you want and explains all possible risk, but in the long run leaves the decision to you. They might know better – from a purely professional viewpoint – but this is your body and the decision to have it altered should be entirely yours.

Top Tips

Other considerations should also be taken into account when looking for the right plastic or cosmetic surgeon. These top tips should help…
Don’t believe everything you hear. The Internet is full of surgeons offering cut-price procedures, as are many women’s magazines. A healthy skepticism is vital for making the right choice. And if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Shop around. Make sure you have a consultation with at least three surgeons so you can do a bit of comparison-shopping, not only price but type of procedure etc. Most initial consultations are free so make the time and effort – not only your appearance could depend on it!
Check before-and-after pictures, and investigate the hype behind the headlines. Talk to former patients, if possible (see below) and make sure they are satisfied not only with the end result, but with the care given, the price etc.
Don’t base your final decision on the price of a specific procedure. Remember, this is your body – and price isn’t everything.
Go with your gut instinct. If something doesn’t look right, feel right or even smell right, it’s probably not the right place for you. Your surgeon may be qualified to the highest standards and have an enormous list of satisfied patients. But if the two of you don’t get along and you feel uncomfortable or scared in his or her presence, look elsewhere.

Advice from a Pro

In her recent book, Men Are Stupid …And They Like Big Boobs: A Woman’s Guide to Beauty Through Plastic Surgery, comedienne Joan Rivers offers advice to women who are contemplating going under the knife – and need to find a good surgeon. She advocates asking everyone you know, including your friends and acquaintances, your gynecologist, and even your hair stylist.

“He sees the hidden scars in hairlines and behind the ears day after day. He looks down blouses for hours, even though he’s got absolutely no interest,” she writes. “He’s seen good boob jobs and lousy ones. Believe me, he’s an expert on who does great work and who doesn’t.”

Once you’ve found someone, Rivers advocates checking their qualifications through the websites of both the American Board of Medial Specialties and the ASPS. Once their credentials have been verified, look at their website, call their office, and finally meet up face-to-face.

“In the waiting room, you’ll get to talk to some of his patients, see how happy/unhappy they’ve been. Believe me, unhappy patients will be bursting to tell you their complaints. Often, in the waiting room, doctors have binders of before-and-after photos to flip through – an excellent way to pass time,” Rivers writes.

“His waiting room should also have comfortable, clean seating, current magazines, nicely arranged, and some soothing music piped in. You’ll be spending a lot of time there. Why shouldn’t every aspect of the experience be pleasant?”

Finally, she issues two warnings which every woman must follow. “Warning #1: I beg you, do not be tempted by the classified ads in the newspaper, the type that screams, ‘Three-Area Lipo, No Money Down!’ The low prices might catch your attention. But is hiring a surgeon the right time to go bargain hunting? As a plastic surgeon friend puts it, “Doctors know what they’re worth, and they create a price list based on that.

“Warning #2: Get ready for sticker shock. The flat belly of your dreams? It may cost you the price of a renovated bathroom. A breast reduction? That’s your anniversary vacation in Paris. A year of Botox Cosmetic? Good-bye Hamptons rental. It’s about priorities. Do you want a new face or a new patio? Even if you’ve got a two-hour commute, you’ve got a twenty-four-hour face.”

If only Tara Reid had read Rivers’ book before she had the botched boob job…

The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care an appropriate health care provider.

First: Generate a List of Cosmetic Surgeons in Your Area

Use the yellow pages, local online medical boards and organizations like the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons to help you generate a list of liposuction surgeons in your area. Once you have this list, you can begin to narrow down the list. First of all, make sure that every liposuction surgeon on the list has the appropriate credentials. Then, consider exactly what you want out of your liposuction surgeon. If you would feel more comfortable with a female doctor, for example, take this into consideration while narrowing down your list.

Second: Research the Liposuction Surgeons in Your Area

Once you have a list of liposuction surgeons who seem to be a possible match for you, do a little bit of research about each individual. Has the doctor won any awards? Is he or she on any important medical boards? How long has he or she been practicing liposuction surgery? Then, get in contact with the doctors and see if you might be able to review his or her past work. Many plastic surgeons have websites that include numerous before and after photos of their patients. Finally, make an appointment to meet with the surgeon with whom you feel most comfortable. If this consultation goes well and you are confident in the doctor’s abilities afterwards, then you have found your liposuction surgeon! If not, you can return to your list and make an appointment to see another surgeon who made it to the top of your list.

What if There Aren’t Any (or Many) Liposuction Surgeons in My Area?

If this is the case, you might want to cast a wider net. Many people travel across the country in order to have their cosmetic surgery and liposuction performed by a top surgeon. You can search for doctors all over the country by using the helpful website www.docshop.com. Traveling for surgery can be cost prohibitive as you may have to travel a number of times for your consultation, surgery, and follow-up visits. This is in addition to the liposuction cost , of course.