Sunday, February 14, 2010

What About Liposuction?

What about liposuction? Is it still a viable option for someone who wants to rid himself or herself of unwanted weight? A good candidate for liposuction is someone who is in fairly good shape, relatively close to his or her ideal weight, but wants to trim down localized areas. The person should be physically healthy, psychologically stable with realistic expectations.

The fat will not re-accumulate in these areas in the same manner as before and leaves small, if any, scars. Newport Beach Plastic Surgeon Dr Boris Ackerman states" I perform hundreds of liposuction procedures each year. I have many patients who come to me after they have given birth and request liposuction. Even though they have returned to their previous weight, many of these women have some resistant areas as a result of the pregnancy."

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Suitable Solutions for Postpartum Women Dissatisfied With the New Shape Of Their Breasts

Breast enhancement and breast lift surgery procedures are suitable solutions for women suffering from postpartum depression and are also unhappy with the shape of their breasts following pregnancy and nursing. Most women, after having children, begin to lose tissue volume in the upper part of the chest, resulting in a hollowed appearance in the upper breast.

The medical term used to describe sagging of the breasts is breast ptosis. In such cases, the plastic surgeon may elect to perform a breast lift procedure (also referred to as a Mastopexy). The surgeon may also insert a breast implant in the breast to restore the lost volume. The size of a woman’s breasts depends on the volume of breast tissue. If a patient has sufficient volume, only a simple lift is required in order to provide a tighter, more youthful appearing skin envelope, thus allowing the breasts to stand high and firm.

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Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Fix Those Stubborn Areas With Liposuction

Even if you are maintaining a healthy diet and sticking to a proper exercise plan, you may still experience areas of stubborn fat that will not respond to your exercise and diet. Liposuction surgery, also commonly referred to as liposculpting or body contouring is a plastic surgery procedure developed to target those areas of stubborn excess fat. Liposuction surgery is most commonly utilized to remove the excess fat, and shape the body, providing a more natural contour. This surgery procedure is frequently used in combination with other procedures such as a face lift procedure and tummy tuck surgery. The liposuction surgery procedure is not meant to be used as a method or alternative for losing weight. The best candidates for liposuction are following a proper diet and exercise regimen, are close to their ideal weight and have healthy skin with good elasticity.

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Thursday, February 4, 2010

The Consultation Is An Important Part Of Plastic Surgery

The plastic surgery consultation is an opportunity to meet your plastic surgeon, get comfortable with one another and most importantly, you will discuss with your plastic surgeon the areas of your appearance for which you desire improvement. When you contact the plastic surgeon's office to schedule your consultation, the surgeon's staff will send an you a packet that contains important information. This packet should include information about the plastic surgeon, the Surgeon's office, policies and of course, information about your chosen plastic surgery procedure as well as information about the surgical facility where the procedure will be performed. It is important that you completely read and fully understand this information in order for you to be aware of what to expect, the surgery process and options available to you prior to your consultation. This packet will also includes a patient questionnaire about you, and your medical history.

During your consultation, the surgeon will perform an examination. Depending on the procedure, the surgeon will measure the area(s) of concern, take notes and the surgeon may also take "before" photos. The surgeon will discuss with you the options available for your procedure, such as the size of breast implants. In addition the surgeon will also offer his recommendations for you. You and your plastic surgeon will also thoroughly review the planned procedure, what to expect as you recover and your anticipated results.

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Is A Filler Lift An Alternative To A Surgical Face Lift?

Many plastic surgeons believe that when the correct individual dermal filler, or in some cases, the correct combination of fillers to treat wrinkles, the results are very similar to those achieved from much more invasive procedures.

Dermal fillers widely accepted and used in modern cosmetic dermatology and cosmetic surgery procedures as an instant aesthetic treatment. A dermal filler treatment is one of a small number of cosmetic procedures that typically provide immediate results and a noticeable improvement and does not require down time like procedures such as a face lift.

These days there is a mind boggling number of choices when electing to have a dermal filler treatment. It is not an uncommon practice for a cosmetic surgeon to utilize a single type of filler to treat more than one area of concern.

New York Cosmetic Dermatologist Dr. Karyn Grossman states "Each individual dermal filler has qualities that differ from other fillers, and therefore provide different results. By utilizing multiple filler types to treat different areas of a patients face, and using the best filler for each treatment area, one can achieve the most beautiful and natural looking results possible."

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Wednesday, January 20, 2010

In Vitro Fertilization With Frozen Eggs

Unlike sperm and embryo cryopreservation, which have become routine processes in assisted reproductive technology, success with freezing eggs has historically been difficult to achieve. This is because the egg is the largest cell in the human body and contains a considerable amount of water.

When eggs are frozen, ice crystals form that can destroy the cell. To prevent this, the egg must be dehydrated prior to freezing. The water is then replaced by a special “antifreeze” that inhibits the formation of ice crystals. Because the eggshell hardens when frozen, sperm must be injected with a needle in order to fertilize the egg. This is known as ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection) and is a standard technique also used in IVF.

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Is Body Contouring Surgery Right for You?

Body contouring surgery involves removal of fat tissues, rearranging the skin and tightening muscles in order to create a more youthful appearance. The plastic surgeon utilizes different techniques to achieve a unique, lasting aesthetic result custom tailored for each patient. Your plastic surgeon will work closely with you to develop a surgical approach that is optimal for you. The following includes information about the two main body contouring procedures.

Liposuction surgery is a procedures that involves the removal of fat from problem areas of the body such as love handles. Liposuction procedures can be performed alone, or in combination with other body contouring procedures. Patients who are excellent candidates for liposuction have pockets of fat that do not respond to regular exercise and proper diet. For Liposuction surgery, the Best results are achieved when the fat is localized to specific problem areas and the patients has good skin tone.

Abdominoplasty surgery, also referred to as a tummy tuck, is a procedure designed to tighten the loose and/or hanging skin of the abdomen, hips, and pubic area. Patients who have loose or sagging skin around the abdomen and softened abdominal wall muscles are excellent candidates for an abdominoplasty procedure. In some cases, a patient may also suffer from abdominal bulges and hernias. These problems can be treated effectively in conjunction with an abdominoplasty surgery procedure.

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Zygote Intra-Fallopian tube Transfer Shows Promise

Santa Monica Fertility Specialists in Santa Monica California, home to world renown Fertility Specialist Dr John Jain, recently implemented a ZIFT program for women over 40. ZIFT stands for Zygote Intra-Fallopian tube Transfer, a process where embryos are transferred to the fallopian tube soon after fertilization so that they can grow in their natural environment. The reason we offer this is that the increased rate of infertility and miscarriage seen in women over 40 years of age is primarily due to chromosomal errors that occur during egg and embryo development. Growing embryos in the artificial environment of the IVF laboratory puts further stress on developing embryos.

The results with ZIFT and early intrauterine transfer have led to ongoing pregnancies in approximately 60% of the first group of women treated in this manner. ZIFT is also a viable alternative to those women who have encountered multiple IVF failures.

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Tuesday, January 19, 2010

Are Multiple Pregnancies Dangerous?

Over the past decade, improved fertility treatments has lead to a rise in the incidence of twins, triplets and even higher-order (Quadruplets etc.) multiple pregnancies. Although most of these multiple pregnancies are fraternal (each from one egg), the incidence of identical twinning has also increased, probably due to embryo manipulation in the laboratory.

Fertility treatments utilize hormonal injections that increase the number of eggs produced. Following hormone injections, a woman can be artificially inseminated, or undergo in-vitro fertilization whereby the eggs are fertilized in the laboratory and actual embryos are transferred into the uterus.

Multiple pregnancies are considered high-risk pregnancies. For the mother, the risks include increased chance of hypertension in pregnancy, gestational diabetes, cesarean section and hemorrhage at the time of delivery. For the babies, the main risks relate to preterm delivery and the risk of disability or death from underdeveloped organs.

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Friday, January 15, 2010

What Is Liposuction Surgery, and How Can It Help Me?

Liposuction is a cosmetic surgery procedure that helps to sculpt the body by removing excess fat from specific areas of the body. Through a small incision, a slim tube is inserted through the incision to remove the fat layer that lies deep beneath the skin. The cannula is then inserted and moved through the fat layer, breaking up the fat cells and suctioning them through a vacuum pump or a large syringe. Liposuction surgery is not a substitute for dieting and exercise, but it can help with the stubborn areas of fat that do not seem to be affected by normal weight loss methods.
Good candidates for a liposuction procedure are people who are within 30% of their ideal weight and have firm, elastic skin with pockets of excess fat in certain areas. You should be realistic about your expectations and in good physical and mental health. Individuals with certain medical conditions may not be suitable candidates for liposuction surgery - check with your plastic surgeon if you have such a medical condition.

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Monday, January 11, 2010

Improve Your Sun-damaged Skin With Little Downtime

Currently, there are many lasers used to treat sun damage/photo-aging of the skin. One older laser system, the carbon dioxide laser, has been very effective for laser treating sun damaged skin but has fallen out of favor. This is because it routinely caused extensive rawness of the skin that typically required over 2 weeks of “downtime” to recover. In addition to the time it took to heal, it frequently caused skin discoloration and occasionally scarring. Many lasers available today require very little downtime and yield some improvement of the skin but are not nearly as effective as the carbon dioxide laser. San Francisco Plastic Surgeon Dr. Cedars in conjunction with Dr. Wall are doing a study designed to assess the effectiveness of a new, modified carbon dioxide laser system.

The MiXto laser is a "fractional" carbon dioxide laser, meaning that, rather than "zapping" 100% of a treated region of skin, it zaps scattered tiny zones of skin comprising a total of perhaps 25% of the treated region. Tiny treatment zones mean no skin rawness. The trade-off appears to be that more than one treatment is needed to get good results. The laser has been used to safely treat over 160 patients in Italy. It has been FDA-approved for treatment of fine lines. Patients who have been treated with this laser report less pain, less downtime, and better results than are reported with other lasers. Dr. Michael Cedars and Dr. Tomi Wall have successfully patients with this laser.

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Friday, January 8, 2010

Preoperative Planning with Computer Simulation

With all of the advancements in plastic surgery procedure techniques and the technology employed, procedures are becoming safer, and surgeons are now able to better predict the results. California plastic surgeon Dr Craig Creasman does exactly that with a new technology for breast augmentation surgery called 4-d Simulation. This technology is aimed at aiding in the pre-operative planning stage of the surgery.

Dr Creasman states"I discuss surgical options with my patients using this new computer imaging, which can demonstrate the changes I would suggest for the changes we would make during the surgery. Using this technology, 4-D images can be obtained in short time, which I then manipulate to give an educated estimate of what might a patients breasts will look like after breast augmentation surgery. This system also allows for more flexibility in the choice of breast implant, which helps to create a more personalized result. "

Though this technology is not a guarantee or warranty of the proposed surgical result, it does help to provide the patient and the surgeon with a visual communication aid. This is important because it allows the patient to give the doctor feedback and allows the surgeon an opportunity to convey to the patient the limitations of what can be done, as well as the possible results. It is very important for the patient to visualize how she will look with the breasts she desires, and this system becomes an educational tool in with which the patient can view the result third-party, rather than just listening to the surgeon visualizing the results while standing in front of a mirror with a breast implant held up to her body.

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Monday, January 4, 2010

What is the Best Method For Breast Reconstruction?

The unique circumstances of each patient help to determine the best option for the method of reconstruction that can be used. The goals of breast reconstruction surgery are to re-create a breast which matches the opposite breast, or in bilateral cases, to reconstruct two breasts of a patient’s desired size. The nipple and areola (the pigmented area surrounding the nipple) are also reconstructed. It is ideal to consult with a plastic surgeon prior to mastectomy. This allows the plastic surgeon to plan the treatment that is best suited for the patient, even if the patient decides to wait to have reconstructive surgery at a later date.

Immediate breast reconstruction occurs when reconstruction is performed at the time of mastectomy. Immediate reconstruction has the advantage of usually saving the patient at least one subsequent operation, and has been shown to have a significant psychological benefit, as the patient never has to experience the total loss of a breast. All of the reconstruction options listed below can be performed at the time of mastectomy.

Delayed breast reconstruction is done at a later time. For some women, this may be advised, especially if radiation to the chest area is needed after the mastectomy. Delayed reconstruction is appropriate for these women because radiation therapy following breast reconstruction can increase complications after reconstructive surgery.

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Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Rhinoplasty in California

Rhinoplasty, also known as Nose Surgery, is a procedure meant to improve the appearance of the nose through surgery. Most female patients generally have a nose surgery procedure to reduce the prominent "hump"(also referred to as a nasaldorsum) on the bridge of the nose. Rhinoplasty surgery also provides for narrowing the shape of the nose from a frontal view which aids in creating a more feminine appearance and giving balance to the nose in relation to other facial features.

The tip of the nose is is also refined during a rhinoplasty procedure. By narrowing the tip of the nose and altering its position, the tip of the nose looks more feminine. The techniques utilized by a plastic surgeon to refine a nasal dorsum and tip of the nose are achieved through the process of selective removal of cartilage in one area of the nose, while adding cartilage in other areas. The precision use of a technique called 'cartilage suturing' is also employed to give the tip of the nose a more attractive appearance.

Men who desire nose surgery may have some nasal deviation and desire cosmetic improvement to the nose. The overall goal of a rhinoplasty procedure is to provide a nose that has been straightened through cosmetic refinement of the dorsum and tip of the nose, while preserving each individuals unique facial character and masculine appearance.

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Monday, December 14, 2009

Oocyte Cryopreservation In The Clinical Practice

The incorporation of oocyte cryopreservation into the clinical practice of assisted reproduction long has been a goal of many practitioners. Oocyte cryopreservation complements assisted reproduction by extending its application to fertile women. It may be used to avoid long-term embryo cryopreservation, to rescue cycles complicated by ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome or failure to obtain sperm, and to avoid synchronization issues in oocyte-donation cycles.

Fertile women may take advantage of this technology to electively delay childbearing or as a strategy for fertility preservation when faced with a new diagnosis of cancer and sterilizing therapies such as chemotherapy and radiation or extirpative surgery. Recent advances in assisted reproduction and embryology, including improved culture media, fertilization with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), and optimization of cryoprotectants, have made oocyte cryopreservation a viable reality. This review focuses on the etiology of oocyte cryopreservation, history of oocyte cryopreservation, recent advances, and clinical outcomes.

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Plastic Surgery in Southern California

Realize that plastic surgery is a very in depth field. Everyday a large number of plastic surgeons take a role in advancing the techniques and methods used in order to make plastic surgery procedures safer, and increase the probability of successful surgical procedures. Currently there are many techniques, and advancements for products such as Breast Implants in clinical trials, being tested, research data is being recorded, and Patients taking part in these trails feedback and experiences are being sought- all in an effort to improve plastic surgery as a whole.

All too often, many people think of plastic surgeons as Doctors who decided not to pursue a more in depth field of medicine such a heart surgeon, or neurological surgeon, etc. What most do not realize is that plastic surgery is not a fly by night industry and while there are those surgeons who do a good job at furthering that myth, the majority of cosmetic surgeons are caring, skilled and experienced doctors with a sharp eye for the details.

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Saturday, December 12, 2009

Gynecomastia Affects Half Of All Men, But Surgery Can Help

Gynecomastia is the proper medical term used to describe irregular breast development in males. Gynecomastia is a condition that affects almost half of males during development and it is a fairly common condition that can occur on either one or both sides of the chest. This condition is the result of extra breast tissue, fat, or both. Usually, gynecomastia develops during a normal phase of development. This condition can happen at the beginning stages of puberty, however in most cases reverts by the age of 20. This condition can also happen during aging in normally healthy males. Other "pathological" causes of gynecomastia can occur, usually due to both a decline in the production of the male hormone testosterone, and an increase in the production of the female hormone estrogen. The use of certain drugs can also contribute to the cause of gynecomastia.

A plastic surgeon will usually treat this condition by reducing the size of the soft tissues by removal of the fatty tissues through a liposuction procedure or through the open removal of the breast's glandular tissues through a tiny incision around the areola. In cases where the patient has excessive amounts of skin, longer incisions are ultimately necessary for the removal of the excess skin and tissue. These longer incisions will also result in a larger scar.

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An Under Developed Chin Can Be Corrected Through Surgery

A person with a small chin can appear weak and a small chin can also be the source of teasing and ridicule. A lower jaw that has not properly developed, with an irregular contact of teeth in the upper and lower jaw (a condition known as malocclusion) or an overbite requires a combination of orthodontic and maxillofacial surgery to relocate the entire jawbone forward thereby correcting the imbalance. However, in most cases, the teeth and upper and lower jaw are properly aligned, but the chin has not developed normally. In such cases, major surgery is not necessary. The use of a prosthetic facial implant can result in a very effective correction of this problem. When choosing an implant the correction method, the plastic surgeon will insert the implant through a small incision either under the chin or though an incision in the mouth.

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Thursday, December 10, 2009

You Can Improve Your Sun-Damaged Skin With Laser Treatments

Currently, there are many lasers used for facial and skin rejuvenation and to treat sun damage and photo-aging of the skin. One older laser system, the carbon dioxide laser, has been very effective for treating sun damaged skin but has fallen out of favor. This is because it routinely caused extensive rawness of the skin that typically required over 2 weeks of “hiding out” or “downtime” to recover. In addition to the time it took to heal, it frequently caused skin discoloration and occasionally scarring. Many lasers available today require very little downtime and yield some improvement of the skin but are not nearly as effective as the carbon dioxide laser. As with any procedure, anyone considering laser skin treatments should first consult with a plastic surgeon prior to under going their chosen procedure.

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Friday, November 20, 2009

What You Should Know About Breast Implants

A lot of people these days are well aware of the popularity of Breast Augmentation surgery. What most do not realize is that there are different types of breast implants, and each type has its own use and application, depending on the preferences of the patient, her surgeon and lastly, the technique used for the placement of the implants also has some bearing over the choice of implant used.

The saline breast implant has an exterior shell made of solid silicone, which is filled with a sterile saline solution much like the salt-water solution that is administered for intravenous fluids during and after a surgical procedure. One of the advantages of this saline solution is its safety. Should a saline implant leak, the saline solution is absorbed by your body, just as the intravenous fluids would. Another notable advantage of saline breast implants is a very low infection rate, which has been reported to be less than two percent.

The silicone implants are filled with a silicone gel surrounded by a solid silicone shell. More than one million women in America currently have silicone breast implants. Some feel that the silicone implant results in a more natural appearing breast.

Cohesive gel implants (commonly referred to as the "gummy bear" implant) are silicone implants that are filled with a thicker silicone gel that will hold its shape and form much like a "gummy bear" candy. If you were to cut open a standard gel implant, the liquid silicone gel leaks out of the implant shell. However, when you cut into a cohesive gel implant, the implant itself maintains its shape and integrity and the thicker silicone gel does not leak out. These shaped implants were designed with a focus upon a natural look, rather than for the sole purpose of breast enlargement. "Gummy bear" implants maintain their shape in an upright position, which decreases the incidence of the implants shell folding or rippling. If a cohesive gel implant ruptures, it maintains both its shape and integrity.

When electing to have breast implant surgery, one should always consult with a plastic surgeon prior to the surgical procedure. This is an important step and one that should not be taken lightly. As with any surgical procedure, there is some level of risk, and it is important that anyone considering Breast Augmentation surgery become informed of the risks involved, and that person fully understand the procedure, and be realistic about the results.

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Tuesday, November 3, 2009

A Brow Lift Can Help Restore Youthful Vibrance

People who consider brow lift surgery may have noticed the effects of age, gravity, exposure to sunlight, and the stresses of life all taking their toll on a person's face. Muscles and other tissues may slowly begin to droop, causing the patient to look tired or sad. Such factors may affect an individual's confidence, leading them to seek their own brow lift.

A brow lift can help such individuals restore youthful vibrance and energy to the face. The effects of time are virtually undone to restore an individual's face and to remove many of the effects of time and aging. Plastic and cosmetic surgeons accomplish such effects by removing a portion of and tightening the muscles and other tissues that are causing the skin to droop. This not only helps to restore the physical appearance of the patient, but also restores self-confidence and respect to the patient.

A brow lift is a very individualized procedure in which your goals should be realistically determined and discussed with your plastic surgeon. Together you will determine what specific procedures will be performed. A brow lift is often performed in conjunction with other procedures such as a face lift, nose job, or eye surgery.

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Many Facelift Surgery Options Are Available Today

Today many facelift options are appealing to men and women of various ages. Patients often will ask what is the best age for a facelift. That varies on an individual basis, as every face ages differently. Some patients opt to do a little bit of surgery in their early 40's while others wait and decide to do more of a major surgery in their 50's and 60's. Overall, the most important goal is to rejuvenate the patient and produce the most natural outcome, without appearing as if you have had surgery.

Heredity, personal habits, the pull of gravity, and sun exposure contribute to aging of the face. Therefore, facial rejuvenation is tailored specifically to the individual. Individual needs may include a browlift, eyelid surgery, necklift or even replacing the deep grooves or volume loss with fat. Your plastic surgeon will listen to your goals, assess your facial structure and will create a vision to rejuvenate your face to create the best, most natural results. Successful facial plastic surgery is result of good communication between patient and surgeon. Trust, based on realistic expectations develops in the consulting stage before the surgery is performed.

Nowadays facelifts are more than just pulling the skin as tight as possible, as evidenced by the wind tunneled looks of the past. Plastic and cosmetic surgeons use the most up to date and modern techniques of addressing the "deep plane, or underlying muscles as well as excess skin. The goal is to restore the contours of youth by repositioning muscles where they once were and replacing fat back where it has slowly disappeared.



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Monday, November 2, 2009

What is Liposuction Surgery?

Liposuction involves the removal of fat by small tubes, or cannulas, attached to a vacuum aspiration device. Only fat in the subcutaneous layers of the body are accessible for liposuction. Patients with fat inside their abdomen, for example, are not helped by liposuction, but instead must resort to dieting and exercise for this visceral fat loss. Liposuction is not a substitute for proper diet and exercise. Although liposuction, per se, is not a reliable way of losing weight; it is a very reliable means of contouring.

Once the fat cells are removed, your net fat cell number is reduced permanently, thus making it theoretically more difficult for you to regain the fullness in the treated area. Liposuction is essentially a redistribution operation in that the fat in the areas treated is reduced in proportion to the rest of the body. We are frequently asked if the fat "goes somewhere else", or if one tends to put on weight in other areas of the body. One explanation for this perception may be that without a change in caloric intake, in the setting of stable or declining basal metabolic rate (which occurs as we age), it is predictable that fat would accumulate as a means of storing energy. If the depots of fat that were once present have been significantly reduced in capacity, then it follows that those fat depots remaining untreated may tend to accumulate more fat if energy intake exceeds energy expenditure.

It is therefore very important that patients considering liposuction understand the importance of diet and exercise in maintaining their weight, and realize that liposuction is not an alternative to a healthy lifestyle.

A comprehensive assessment by the plastic surgeon of each patient on an individual basis is essential to the development of a specific treatment plan directed at identifying those specific areas that may be responsive to liposuction. In many instances, patients seek consultation for what amounts to a desire to lose weight. A stable Body Mass Index of less than 27 is necessary to be considered a candidate for liposuction. You should be aware of your Body Mass Index (BMI) and your surgeon's guidelines for what constitutes good candidacy for liposuction . In most surgeon's experience, patients with a BMI above 27 are usually too overweight to derive a good result with liposuction. Their problem is more generalized, and liposuction would not typically be able to access areas of fat accumulation, such as the fat within the abdominal cavity. The ideal candidates have very specific areas of their bodies, which cause them concern and seem to be unresponsive to dieting and/or exercise. Liposuction affords us the ability to sculpt those specific areas with very small incisions (and thus very inconspicuous scars), thus bringing the patient into proportion with the rest of his or her features.

Most plastic surgeons offer a complimentary consultation during which he/she gathers a medical history, including the patient’s weight gain and loss pattern, diet and exercise regimen, and goals for the procedure. Any previous medical conditions need to be identified prior to assessing the patient for surgical candidacy. Height and weight measurements are taken and a physical examination is done to assess the skin tone and texture, skeletal abnormalities such as scoliosis, and muscle bulk and tone. Digital images are obtained and using sophisticated morphing software, surgeons who employ this technology can demonstrate a realistic estimate of the result you might obtain with liposuction. This provides you with an image of yourself which is enormously useful to your decision-making about whether this is a procedure which would satisfy your goals.

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Friday, October 30, 2009

Breast Reconstruction Options

The circumstances of individual patient can help to decide what is the best method of breast reconstruction that can be used. The goals of breast reconstruction surgery are to re-create a breast which matches the opposite breast, or in bilateral cases, to reconstruct two breasts to the patients’s desired size. During Breast reconstruction surgery. the nipple and areola are also reconstructed. It is recommended that one consult with a plastic surgeon prior to a mastectomy procedure. This allows the Surgeon and his team to plan a treatment that is best suited for each patient, even if the patient decides to wait to have reconstructive surgery at a later time.

Immediate breast reconstruction occurs when reconstruction of the beast is done at the same time as a mastectomy. The immediate reconstruction method has the advantage of usually saving the patient from undergoing at least one subsequent operation, and this has been proven to provide significant psychological benefit, as the patient never has to experience the total loss of a breast.

Delayed breast reconstruction is a beast reconstruction surgery performed at a later date. The Surgeon may recommend this method for some women, especially if radiation to the chest area is required after the mastectomy. Delayed reconstruction is appropriate for some because radiation therapy following breast reconstruction can increase complications after reconstructive surgery.

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Thursday, October 8, 2009

Types of Breast Implants

Saline Breast Implants - The saline implant has an exterior sack made of solid silicone, which is filled with a sterile saline solution — like the salt-water solution that is administered for intravenous fluids. One of the advantages of this solution is its safety. Should the implant for some reason leak, the saline just gets absorbed by your body, as would the intravenous fluids used during, and after surgery. Yet another advantage of the saline breast implants is a very low infection rate, which is usually less than one to two percent.

Silicone Breast Implants - These are implants that are filled with a silicone gel. More than 1.5 million American women currently have silicone breast implants. Some people feel that the silicone implant results in a more natural appearing breast.

Cohesive Gel Implants - Cohesive gel implants are silicone implants that are filled with a thicker silicone gel that holds its shape and form like a "gummy bear." If you cut into a standard gel implant, the liquid silicone gel escapes from the implant shell. In contrast, when you cut into a cohesive gel implant, the implant itself maintains its shape and integrity. These shaped implants are designed with a focus upon a natural look, rather than for enlargement. Furthermore, gummy bear implants maintain their shape in an upright position that decreases the incidence of folding of the implant shell or rippling. If a cohesive gel implant ruptures, it maintains both its shape and integrity.

View Breast Implant Surgery Before and After Photos

It is always a good idea to make sure one does research prior to having any surgical procedure. Anyone considering Breast Enhancement surgery should first consult with a qualified specialist such as California Plastic Surgeon Dr John Griffin. There are many excellent websites on the internet that provide good information about breast enhancement. The best one I have found is Lookingyourbest.com- a free website that boasts a wealth of plastic surgery information and even offers a free service to help you locate a skilled and experienced doctor in your area.



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Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Reasons Women Explore Breast Enhancement

There are many personal reasons that women explore breast enhancement — a desire for larger breasts, to restore pre-pregnancy volume, or to just return to a more youthful appearance. A woman's satisfaction with the shape and size of her breast can help define her self image. Having a positive body image is important. Many women who experience breast augmentation are more confident in their body posture more comfortable in the way they look in their clothing, and can have a better quality of life.

An ideal candidate for breast augmentation is a woman who has specific concerns regarding the size and shape of her breast, and realistic expectations regarding her results. Equally important is that she is well informed and educated on the changes she is making on her breast size; and that the decision is self motivated, non impulsive or pressured by her partner.

When choosing an implant size, many factors such as body type and shape come into play. Proportional body measurements should be taken into account to achieve a total body balance. Breast augmentation not only is about a larger cup size, it is about enhancing the aesthetics, beauty of the breast, and body as a whole.

Breast Augmentation uses breast implants which are either filled with a saline solution or silicone gel. Saline implants are most commonly used as the use of silicone implants has been restricted. This is because the rupture of a silicone implant may release the silicone material into the body's tissues which is a significant health concern. If saline implants rupture, the saline solution is harmlessly reabsorbed into the body and the implant can be replaced.

Be sure to consult with your chosen plastic surgeon and have all your questions answered regarding the surgery procedure and traveling. It is also a good idea to research your desired surgical procedure beforehand, to ensure you fully understand all aspect of the procedure. There is a large number of plastic surgery websites on the internet, the best one I have found is lookingyourbest.com. This is a free website the boasts a wealth of in depth and accurate plastic surgery information and they also offer a free service to help you locate experienced and qualified plastic surgeons in your area and around the country.

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Monday, October 5, 2009

Fertility Research Today, Tomorrow and Beyond

The science of reproductive medicine is constantly evolving. Many of the advances made in the field in recent years would have been considered impossible even half a decade ago. This progress is due in large part to the mapping of the human genome, which has and will continue to have, an incalculable impact on science and medicine. With emerging technologies, molecular analysis and diagnosis is now possible, affording us a clearer understanding of the genetics of the egg and the embryo, as well as the genetic cause of disease. By translating this data into innovative testing and treatments, we are now able to solve problems in the laboratory. Personalized medicine is fueling a significant new paradigm shift in reproductive science.

Understanding the conditions necessary for optimal embryogenic processes in the laboratory is a main focus of our research. Customization of the culture environment has a profound effect on the viability of eggs and embryos, which in turn, increases the success of IVF practice. And because genetic health is determined at the embryonic stage, this work has an inestimable impact on the health of children born through the use of assisted reproductive technology.

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Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Facial Rejuvenation Never Looked So good!

My friend whom I will call Tammy Had been talking to my wife about ways to keep that youthful look. As I sat at my computer researching Plastic Surgery Information, I over heard Tammy describe her dissatisfaction with the way her face looked and more over, the areas of her face where she had experienced some fat loss. Tammy mentioned Botox didn't help much and chemical peels and laser resurfacing were not the solution.

I invited Tammy into my office and showed her a Cosmetic Dermatologist website I had found that described a fix for what Tammy did not like about her face. The facial rejuvenation procedure called Sculptra is done by injecting this compound called Sculptra below the skin's surface in the ares of fat loss and thus providing the areas a gradual filling.

Long Story Short Tammy decided to see her doctor about Sculptra. I am happy to say that She did have the procedure, and after just a few treatments, I can definitely see a difference. I think Tammy can too. She seems more vibrant, happy and she now has more confidence.

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Tuesday, June 9, 2009

4D Simulations are personalizing Breast Implant Surgery

After examining your breasts, your surgeon will generally want to discuss your surgical options with you using this new computer imaging, which can demonstrate for you the changes he would suggest for your breasts. 4-D images will be obtained very quickly, which he can then manipulate to show an educated estimate of what might be achievable with surgery, with the ability to vary the implant choice.

Though this is not to be implied as a warranty of the surgical result, it does provide a visual communication aid both for you to give the doctor your feedback and for him to convey to you the limitations of what can be done, as well as the possibilities. It is important to see how one actually looks with the breasts you think you want, and it becomes an educational process to view the result as a third party, rather than just leaving it to the verbalization of the plastic surgeon while looking in a mirror with an implant held up to your body.

Pre Op

Post Op (9 month)

Simulation

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Thursday, May 28, 2009

What It Takes to Be a Top Plastic Surgeon in California

All too often, many people think of plastic surgeons as Doctors who decided not to pursue a more in depth field of medicine such a heart surgeon, or neurological surgeon, etc. What most do not realize is that plastic surgery is not a fly by night industry and while there are those surgeons who do a good job at furthering that myth, the majority of plastic surgeons are caring, skilled and experienced doctors with a sharp eye for the details.

Realize that plastic surgery is a very in depth field. Everyday a large number of plastic and cosmetic surgeons take a role in advancing the techniques and methods used in order to make cosmetic and plastic surgery procedures safer, and increase the probability of successful surgical procedures. Currently there are many techniques, and advancements for products such as breast Implants in clinical trials, being tested, research data is being recorded, and Patients taking part in these trails feedback and experiences are being sought- all in an effort to improve plastic surgery as a whole.

In order for a plastic surgeon, especially in California to excel, be successful and maintain a positive reputation, it takes a tireless work ethic, never ending study and education, and a desire to help people become the best they can be. Many of these successful plastic surgeons are also talented artists, and that natural artistic quality carries over into plastic surgery.

In short, to become and remain a successful plastic surgeon, one must always maintain a compassionate desire to help others, and do everything possible to further advance the technology, surgical methods and techniques that make plastic surgery procedures and successful results a reality.

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Tuesday, May 12, 2009

Who Wouldn't Want The Perfect Nose?

It happens to all of us. At least once, sometime in every one's life, we take that long, critical gaze in the mirror. We subject ourselves to self criticism over every feature about our faces and bodies that we do not like. A common feature a large number of men and women alike seem to dislike is their nose. Nasal Reshaping surgery or Rhinoplasty is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic procedures.

In fact Rhinoplasty has been around for a long time- dating back to around 500 BC. Rhinoplasty was used to reconstruct noses that were amputated as punishment and for crimes. Fast forward tot he current day, Rhinoplasty has taken on more of a cosmetic role, even though a large number of patients have this surgery for reconstruction purposes, having a better looking nose that is more proportionate to one's facial features has become a very popular reason to undergo this cosmetic surgery procedure.

Over the years, different techniques have been developed, refined and improved. These improvements make the surgery very safe if performed by an experienced, skilled and well trained surgeon. However, as with all surgery procedures, there is a level of rick and one should make sure he/she does complete and in depth research to make sure he/she understands the procedure, the techniques and the risks involved. Just as important is locating and then consulting with a board certified plastic surgeon prior to having rhinoplasty surgery. There are several websites on the internet that contain good plastic surgery information. One website in particular is lookingyourbest.com. The site boasts an extensive resource library about every aspect of plastic and cosmetic surgery, including news, procedure information and more. They even offer a free service to assist you in locating a skilled experienced surgeon in your area.

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Tuesday, May 5, 2009

Gummy Bear Implants?

I recently received an email from a friend with questions about a new style of breast implant emerging- the Allergan Style 410 Cohesive Gel or "Gummy Bear" Implant. After some research, I thought I would post and share what I found with everyone.

The 410 Style Cohesive Gel Breast implants are a revolutionary style of silicone filled implant, designed to directly address the issue of silicone gel leaking in to the body in case of implant rupture, while maintaining a natural feel and appearance. Currently, if a standard silicone gel implant were to rupture, immediate surgery would be required to remove the damaged implant and clear the leaking silicone from the area.

The Cohesive Gel Implant, more commonly being referred to as the "Gummy Bear" Implant, is designed and manufactured to eliminate the potential problems of silicone gel leaking out of a ruptured breast implant. Even when cut in half, the Gel remains in tact. The method through which this is achieved is adding more "crosslinker" in the gel mixture which results in a pliable gel that allows movement while still maintaining its shape, feel and appearance.

Currently, Allergan is selecting the top board certified Plastic Surgeons in the U.S. to be "Centers of Excellence" for the 410 Cohesive Gel Implant. These specialists, such as Huntington Beach California Plastic Surgeon Dr. Dan Mills.

These new implants could quite possibly change the face of the breast augmentation industry forever. It is always a great achievement when an old standard is replaced by something that is safer, easier to use and less expensive to manufacture. If you or someone you know has been considering breast augmentation surgery with silicone implants, spread the word. Tell them to see an approved specialist and fine out more about the "Gummy Bear" implant. More information about this new Cohesive Gel breast implant can be found on websites that offer Plastic Surgery Information.

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Monday, May 4, 2009

Breast Reconstruction Has Made My Wife a New Woman

Three years ago, My Wife was diagnosed with an aggressive case of Breast Cancer. Following the doctors advice, we scheduled her for surgery right away, and the surgeons were able to successfully remove the cancerous tissues, however, the surgery left my wife's breast deformed and sagging.

After a period of healing and severe depression, my wife had watched a TV show about another woman who had endured a similar situation. It seems the woman on the TV had used a plastic surgeon to perform a breast reconstruction, successfully restoring the volume, look and feel to her breasts. My wife became excited that she could experience the same happiness and see her self confidence, and self esteem restored.

We did some research on a website devoted to plastic surgery information, and scheduled a consultation with a Board Certified plastic surgeon located in San Francisco. The Surgeon was extremely knowledgeable, and was able to completely answer all of our questions and address oour fears and concerns. We got to look at other breast reconstruction surgery photos and get an ides of what results my wife could have. After the consultation we scheduled a date for my wife to have the surgery procedure.

Long story short, three years later, and my wife looks great and she says she feels fantastic. I have not seen her this vibrant, energetic and so full of life since we met in high school. We are very grateful to the surgeon for helping my wife reclaim her life.

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Monday, April 27, 2009

Plastic Surgery Q&A - Breast Enhancement

My wife wants larger breasts, but does not want to use silicone implants due to the possible dangers. Are there any other options?

There are now a few different types of breast implant, the first being a saline filled implant which very safe for use as it is filled with a saltwater solution called saline. If a Saline breast implant ruptures, the salt water solution is absorbed by the body.

The second and third types are both silicone filled - the first of these is the standard silicone filled breast implant. In the Early 90's the FDA called for restrictions on use of the original silicone filled implant so the safety of this device could be evaluated. The restrictions have since been removed, and the original silicone breast implant has been deemed safe for use. However, there is still a small chance these implants can rupture, and the silicone can leak out of the the implant. A ruptured silicone filled implant requires surgery to clear the leaking silicone and replace the implant. This is what I imagine your wife wants to avoid, and thus the reason she does not want to use this type of implant.

The third type of implant is known as the 410 style Cohesive Gel or "Gummy Bear" implant. The gummy bear implant is also silicone, but the difference is in the physical make-up of the implant. The Cohesive Gel is firmer, yet still natural feeling. In case of a rupture, the Cohesive Gel will not leak or run. This is achieved during the manufacturing process by adding additional "Cross linker", which causes the Silicone to become firmer. In fact, when a Gummy Bear implant is cut in half, the implant does not leak, or come apart - the gel remains intact.

I recommend consulting with a board certified and experienced specialist, such as Orange County plastic surgeon Dr Dan Mills. Be sure to have all you questions answered. Ensure you do your research and learn all you can about your breast procedure. There are plenty of plastic surgery information resources available online.

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Monday, April 13, 2009

I Found Some Good informative Blogs on Plastic Surgery

Being a person who is interested in plastic surgery and the underlying psychological connection to the reasons people decide to undergo cosmetic surgery, I am doing my research everyday on the internet, looking for solid, useful information. Over the past month I have put together a list of great plastic and cosmetic surgery blogs I have found, and today I decided to share them with you all to read for yourselves:

  • Rhinoplasty Resources

  • Southern California Plastic Surgery Resources

  • Plastic Surgery in Washington

  • Surgery Resources Honolulu, Hawaii

  • Breast Surgery Resources in Arizona

  • Cosmetic Surgery Resources

  • Pasandena Surgery Resources

  • Dermatology Resources

  • Waterford Plastic Surgery

  • Chicago Illinois Surgery Resources

  • Facial Surgery Information

  • Texas Plastic Surgeon Resources

  • Cosmetic Surgeon Resources in Southern California

  • Facial Rejuvenation Resources

  • Breast Surgery in Hawaii

  • Breast Surgery Specialist

  • Plastic Surgeon Resources Michigan

  • Breast Surgeon in Atlanta

  • Liposuction Surgery Resources

  • Cosmetic Surgeon Resources San Jose

  • Female Plastic Surgeons in Los Angeles

  • Breast Reduction Resources

  • Face Lift Surgery Information

  • Hair Transplant Resources in Hawaii

  • Plastic Surgery in Southern California

  • Breast Surgery Information

  • Breast Enhancement Resources Illinois

  • Nose Surgery Information

  • Surgery Resources in Kentucky

  • Cosmetic Surgery Information Chicago

  • Breast implant Surgery Resources

  • Body Contouring Resources Valencia

  • Female Plastic Surgeon Information

  • Plastic Surgery in Anaheim, CA

  • Breast Augmentation Resources

  • Fertility Information Southern California

  • Plastic Surgery in Newport Beach

  • Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery Resources Seattle

  • Fetility Resources in Santa Monica, CA

  • Hawaii Plastic Surgeon Resources

  • Cosmetic Surgery Information Newport Beach, CA

  • Breast Reconstruction Information San Francisco
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    Thursday, February 26, 2009

    Dr Jain Answers Questions About IVF and The California Octuplets

    There has been intense international reaction to the birth of octuplets by a Southern California woman. While the details are not fully available, it appears that several frozen embryos were transferred to the uterus of a 33 year old woman resulting in the birth of 8 infants. Dr. Jain has been interviewed by news agencies from around the globe for his comments and perspective. The following is a summary of the most common questions and excerpts from his interviews:

    Who qualifies for in-vitro fertilization?

    There are no set qualifications for in-vitro fertilization services. Patients should be assessed for medical, psychological and social well-being. Unique to the specialty of fertility is the health and welfare of the unborn child or children. I try to educate and counsel my patients and make a responsible decision in partnership with the intended parents.

    Since this young, single woman lives at home and already has 6 children from in-vitro, is it ethical to help her have more?

    It is not my role to dictate how many children a person can have. However, since she represents a situation well outside the norm, I would have recommended psychological evaluation and evaluation of her social situation prior to assisting her with additional pregnancies.

    Are fertility services regulated? As a result of this case, will there be more regulations?

    There are no specific regulations dictating the practice of infertility. The American Society of Reproductive Medicine has created practice guidelines based on scientific evidence that aid practitioners in the safe and effective provision of fertility services. Most fertility doctors follow these guidelines responsibly. The case presented here is an exception and should not be used as the basis for wide-sweeping rules and regulations. Patients should not be fearful that such rogue behavior is common.

    Are there guidelines on how many embryos should be transferred?

    In general, for women under the age of 35, no more than 2 high-quality fresh embryos or 3 frozen embryos should be transferred. These guidelines exist to prevent multiple pregnancies which carry with them significant risk for premature birth and life long disability or death. The apparent transfer of at least 6 frozen embryos was well above the standard. I am uncertain why they were not transferred in smaller groups of 2 or 3. As a result, both the mother and the children were put at great risk.

    What will happen to the fertility doctor? Will the doctor lose his/her license?

    We have Medical Boards for this very purpose. They will no doubt investigate this case, gather all the facts, and determine whether sanctions are warranted. The doctor may be put on probation or have his medical license revoked.

    It is important to consult with a specialist like Santa Monica Fertility Specialist Doctor John Jain, MD. Be sure to have all your questions answered and ensure you understand the egg freezing process prior to undergoing Egg Freezing and Fertility treatments.

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    Dr Jain Answers Questions About IVF and The California Octuplets

    There has been intense international reaction to the birth of octuplets by a Southern California woman. While the details are not fully available, it appears that several frozen embryos were transferred to the uterus of a 33 year old woman resulting in the birth of 8 infants. Dr. Jain has been interviewed by news agencies from around the globe for his comments and perspective. The following is a summary of the most common questions and excerpts from his interviews:

    Who qualifies for in-vitro fertilization?

    There are no set qualifications for in-vitro fertilization services. Patients should be assessed for medical, psychological and social well-being. Unique to the specialty of fertility is the health and welfare of the unborn child or children. I try to educate and counsel my patients and make a responsible decision in partnership with the intended parents.

    Since this young, single woman lives at home and already has 6 children from in-vitro, is it ethical to help her have more?

    It is not my role to dictate how many children a person can have. However, since she represents a situation well outside the norm, I would have recommended psychological evaluation and evaluation of her social situation prior to assisting her with additional pregnancies.

    Are fertility services regulated? As a result of this case, will there be more regulations?

    There are no specific regulations dictating the practice of infertility. The American Society of Reproductive Medicine has created practice guidelines based on scientific evidence that aid practitioners in the safe and effective provision of fertility services. Most fertility doctors follow these guidelines responsibly. The case presented here is an exception and should not be used as the basis for wide-sweeping rules and regulations. Patients should not be fearful that such rogue behavior is common.

    Are there guidelines on how many embryos should be transferred?

    In general, for women under the age of 35, no more than 2 high-quality fresh embryos or 3 frozen embryos should be transferred. These guidelines exist to prevent multiple pregnancies which carry with them significant risk for premature birth and life long disability or death. The apparent transfer of at least 6 frozen embryos was well above the standard. I am uncertain why they were not transferred in smaller groups of 2 or 3. As a result, both the mother and the children were put at great risk.

    What will happen to the fertility doctor? Will the doctor lose his/her license?

    We have Medical Boards for this very purpose. They will no doubt investigate this case, gather all the facts, and determine whether sanctions are warranted. The doctor may be put on probation or have his medical license revoked.

    It is important to consult with a specialist like Santa Monica Fertility Specialist Doctor John Jain, MD. Be sure to have all your questions answered and ensure you understand the egg freezing process prior to undergoing Egg Freezing and Fertility treatments.

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    GENETIC TESTING OF EGGS PRIOR TO FREEZING COULD BE DETRIMENTAL

    Eggs are more prone to genetic abnormalities as a woman ages. These abnormalities lead to increased incidences of infertility, miscarriage and birth defects especially in women over 38 years of age. Egg freezing is a method that suspends egg aging. Since the genetic status of an egg cannot be determined solely on appearance, methods to evaluate eggs using genetic probes have developed and recently tested.

    The egg discards DNA at two different times during its development, ovulation and fertilization. The reason for this is to reduce the number of chromosomes to 23 in order to match the 23 chromosomes delivered by the sperm. The discarded DNA (in the form of excess chromosomes) is jettisoned outside of the egg as a small, round pocket called the polar body. Removal of the polar body (biopsy) can provide useful information about the genetic status of the egg. For example, if 23 chromosomes are found in the polar body, the presumption is that a normal count of 23 chromosomes remains in the egg. In contrast, if a number other than 23 is found in the polar body, it implies that an abnormal count remains in the egg and suggests that the egg and ensuing embryo will be genetically abnormal.

    Testing of the polar body using modern genetic techniques such as Comparative Genomic Hybridization (CGH) or Array-CGH, allows identification of abnormal eggs and can thus help determine the number of genetically normal eggs a woman has to freeze.

    However, there are several important limitations to this technology. First, CGH and Array-CGH are still considered experimental, with very little clinical data available. Most clinical data is based on young egg donors and does not reflect the genetic status of eggs from women in their late 30’s.

    Second, embryos may be genetically abnormal due to mistakes contributed by the egg at the time of the first polar body formation or the second polar body formation; or mistakes contributed by the sperm at the time of fertilization. Therefore, assessing only the first polar body by no means guarantees that a normal embryo will derive. Third, and perhaps most concerning, is the lack of research regarding the effects of biopsying an egg prior to freezing.
















    We recently completed a small clinical trial wherein we performed polar body biopsy on eggs prior to freezing. We found a high degree of egg damage. The panel of microscopic pictures above demonstrate these changes: the first picture is a normal egg with an intact first polar body (Photo #1); the next picture is an egg after the polar body was removed (Photo #2); the next two pictures show a biopsied egg after freezing and thawing demonstrating egg contents (Photos #3 & #4) extruding through the biopsy slit. These changes were found on multiple eggs from different patients. These eggs had to be discarded. In addition, many other eggs demonstrated abnormal chromosome segregation after fertilization, and none of the patients achieved a pregnancy.

    We vitrified these eggs using a closed container to protect the eggs from viral or fungal contamination. This closed container method, used at the Egg Freezing Center, is currently being tested for FDA approval. Other vitrification methods (open container) expose eggs directly to liquid nitrogen and can lead to contamination. For this reason, the method in use at Egg Freezing Center, and the data presented here is very relevant for patients contemplating fertility preservation and genetic testing.

    It is my recommendation that women contemplating egg freezing should not undergo genetic testing of their eggs prior to freezing, but rather use these promising technologies to test eggs in the future once they are fertilized as embryos and have all possible egg-derived and sperm-derived abnormalities present for detection.

    It is important to consult with a specialist like Santa Monica Fertility Specialist Doctor John Jain, MD. Be sure to have all your questions answered and ensure you understand the egg freezing process prior to undergoing Egg Freezing and Fertility treatments.

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    Monday, January 26, 2009

    Changing Facial Symmetry with Nose Surgery

    Rhinoplasty is usually performed under twilight or general anesthesia in an outpatient setting. In most procedures, the skin of the nose is lifted away from the bone and cartilage framework beneath, which is then shaped and sculpted as desired. (Some doctors elect to make the incision from inside the nose, depending on the nature of the surgery.) The skin is then re-draped over the "new" framework, and a splint is applied to help your nose maintain its new form. In some cases, nasal packs or soft splints may be inserted in the nostrils to provide additional stability.

    Following surgery, bruising, swelling and discomfort can be expected, but all can be alleviated with cold compresses and medication prescribed by your doctor. (The most visible swelling and bruising are usually gone within two weeks.) Splints, stitches and packing are removed in about a week, and you can usually return to work or non-strenuous activities within a week or two. Strenuous activities may be resumed within four to six weeks.

    Of all plastic surgery procedures, nose enhancement, or rhinoplasty, is among the most common. Nose enhancement surgery can be performed on any part of the nose, to increase or reduce its size; to modify the size and shape of the nostrils, tip or bridge of the nose; or to alter the slope or angle of the nose.

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    Fertility Preservation for Women with Cancer

    The fertility preservation options available to patients are determined by patient age, the type and stage of cancer, and the required treatment. The course of action requires critical decision-making and communication between the patient, oncologist and reproductive endocrinologist. This team approach expedites the process and has been shown to yield the safest outcome.

    Current options for preserving fertility include egg, embryo or ovarian tissue cryopreservation. Egg freezing is a newer procedure and is considered experimental by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Because of this, all activities at LIFE Research and its affiliates are conducted under the auspices of a research ethics board to assure patient safety.

    It is important to consult with a specialist like Santa Monica Fertility Specialist Doctor John Jain, MD. Be sure to have all your questions answered and ensure you understand the egg freezing process prior to undergoing Egg Freezing and Fertility treatments.

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    Friday, January 23, 2009

    What Is Egg Freezing and Who May Benefit?

    Egg freezing is a breakthrough technology that allows women to freeze and store their eggs until a pregnancy is desired, at which time the eggs are thawed, fertilized and transferred to the uterus as embryos.

    Many women today are feeling the pressure of having to choose between a career and a family. Some are returning to school or pursuing advanced degrees and don’t know when or if they will have children. For many, it may simply be an issue of not having found the right person yet. For all of these women, egg freezing is revolutionary not just in its technology, but in the freedom it can offer in allowing them to postpone childbearing.

    Over 50,000 reproductive-aged women are diagnosed with cancer each year in the United States. Surgery, chemotherapy and radiation treatments typically lead to infertility by destroying the eggs. While options vary depending on age, type of cancer and cancer-treatment plan, egg freezing can provide these women the opportunity to preserve their fertility.

    It is important to consult with a specialist like Santa Monica Fertility Specialist Doctor John Jain, MD. Be sure to have all your questions answered and ensure you understand the egg freezing process prior to undergoing Egg Freezing and Fertility treatments.

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