Water assisted liposuction is an alternative to traditional liposuction.

Water assisted liposuction is a new method of body-contouring that uses powerful jets of water to “blast away” excess fat cells. Unlike traditional liposuction techniques, water assisted liposuction does not require a general anesthesia and therefore offers a lower risk for post-operative complications. In addition, the plastic surgeon who operates the water jets is able to exert more control over the fat cells that are targeted due to the very precise nature of the instruments.

Water assisted liposuction, along with laser and ultrasound liposuction techniques, is becoming a popular method of body contouring due to the permanent results and short recovery times. There is some risk involved with this type of liposuction, however, since the powerful stream of water can damage nerves and tissues in the surrounding areas.

Water assisted liposuction is very effective for removing both cellulite and small pockets of fat that can’t be eliminated through diet or exercise. In other words, this may not be an effective approach for removing large deposits of fat throughout the torso and buttocks. It is effective, however, for “saddlebags” or a double chin.

In order to properly maintain the new contour of your body, it is recommended to wear a compression garment after your procedure.  Abdominal binders are good for water assisted liposuction of the mid-section, while girdles and body shapers are ideal for more comprehensive body-contouring.

Anti-cellulite diets can help reduce the appearance of cellulite

There are several effective ways to decrease the appearance of cellulite:

1. Go on an “anti-cellulite” diet. Some raw fruits and vegetables have natural properties that can decrease the appearance of cellulite in legs, thighs, buttocks and stomachs. Fish that are high in fatty acids may also work. Don’t forget to drink plenty of water as well.
2. Use creams that are designed to decrease the appearance of cellulite. Many of these products are acai-based and have little of no side-effects. Some people see results after just a few weeks of daily use.
3. Take anti-aging supplements to combat cellulite that can reduce the appearance of both wrinkles and cellulite.
4. Treat yourself to massage therapy. Gentle but persistent fingers can smooth out the fat under the skin, especially when coconut oil is used.
5. Consider liposuction to decrease the appearance of cellulite. While traditional liposuction methods can be expensive and have long recovery times, new techniques using lasers, ultrasound and even water jets are less invasive. These new alternatives are very effective in targeting small areas of cellulite.

If you choose the route of liposuction, be sure to speak with your doctor about wearing a post liposuction recovery garment.  There are many garments to choose from and finding the best one to fit your needs – whether it’s an abdominal binder, compression girdle, bodyshaper or other post liposuction garment – will help maintain the new shape of your body.

Get more post liposuction recovery information and tips at www.ContourMD.com.

How does silicone sheeting help with healing?

Silicone sheeting is a soft, transparent adhesive membrane that can be applied directly to a wound once it has closed and sutures have been removed. While there is still plenty to learn about the reasons silicon sheeting is so effective in both scar management and the healing process, the results are conclusive and even dramatic.

Doctors believe that silicone sheets help healing in two distinct ways. First, silicone aids in the hydration of the wound, which can keep skin moist and pliant and much more likely to heal. The silicone sheeting, like a traditional dressing, also keeps the wound clean and free from bacteria. The sheet is just permeable enough, however, to let oxygen in.

Second, silicone sheeting aids with scar support. These sheets actually control the tension on the scar to reduce stretching and irritation.

There are some precautions to take if you’re going to use silicone sheeting in a scar management program. First of all, never use other ointments or gels underneath the sheet. Second, stop using the sheets immediately and contact your physician if a rash develops around the wound.

Male breast reductions are becoming more and more popular

The differences between male and female breast reduction surgeries are quite distinct. With male breast reduction surgery, also known as gynecomastia, the goal is to remove excess skin and tissue. With female breast reduction surgery, the contour and projection of the breast needs to be maintained as well. This requires a completely different strategy from the surgeon.

With male breast reduction surgery, the incisions are usually much smaller since the skin contours do not require re-shaping. While there may be some loose skin immediately after the surgery, the typical aesthetic of the male chest is preserved. Also, a smaller incision means a shorter recovery time and less potential post-operative complications.

Female breast reduction surgery is more complicated. The surgeon needs to shape the breasts so that they project outward in a desirable manner. Since the incisions are larger, more attention is paid to reducing the size of the scars. In most cases, the woman wants to preserve the lactation function of the breast, so care must be taken with the nipples and the surrounding nerves during female breast reduction surgery.

As with any plastic or reconstructive surgery, you should have a couple compression garments on hand for the recovery.  For women, it is recommended to wear a compression support bra, while men are suggested to wear a compression vest to help keep the shape of their new bodies.

Knowing what to expect from a breast reduction surgery will help with its success

Here’s what you can expect while recovering from breast reduction surgery:

• Immediately after the breast reduction surgery, small tubes will be placed inside each breast to drain excess blood and fluid. Both of your breasts will be wrapped in gauze bandages for the first few days.
• You’ll be fitted for a surgical bra that will help to support and protect your breasts until the swelling and pain from the breast reduction subsides.
• You’ll feel pain in your breasts for about a week, especially when you cough or shift your torso. You should receive prescription pain medication from your plastic surgeon.
• The skin around your breasts will be very dry for a few weeks. You’ll need to use a moisturizing cream during the recovery.
• You may feel swelling and numbness in your breasts and nipples for up to six weeks after the breast reduction. Occasionally this lack of sensitivity may last longer or may even be permanent.
• Stitches should be removed in one to three weeks.
• Your first menstruation after the surgery may cause pain and swelling.
• Sex should be avoided for a week or more, and direct contact with your breasts should be avoided for six weeks.

Wearing a post surgical bra will help with the new shape of your breasts.  There are several types of bras to choose from including post surgical recovery bras, Bali brand bras, bras designed especially for breast reduction as well as compression support bras.  Be sure to speak with your plastic surgeon to find the best bra for your specific case.

Knowing the facts can help you recovery faster from your plastic surgery

There are several ways to speed up your plastic surgery recovery time:

1. Plan ahead for your recovery time. First, ask your doctor how long the plastic surgery recovery should take. Being frustrated by a slow healing process will place a lot of stress on your body, and that can add to the amount of time it will take to feel 100 percent.
2. Take it easy during your plastic surgery recovery. Don’t plan a lot of activities and events or increase your workload. This is the time to take it easy and allow your body to rebound.
3. Be prepared for an “ugly ducking” phase. Immediately after your surgery you will experience a lot of bruising, swelling and redness. Worrying about your looks during this period will cause you a lot of stress as well. Within a couple of weeks you’ll start to see the new, beautiful you.
4. Drink a lot of water. Hydration is one of the single most important components of the healing process. Drink at least eight full glasses of water every day.
5. Follow the doctor’s orders. He or she knows more about plastic surgery recovery and the healing process than you do.

After plastic surgery you should wear a compression garment.  These garments, also known as post surgical recovery garments, can help keep the shape of your new body while decreasing the swelling and bruising.  Because these recovery garments must be worn throughout the day, it’s a good idea to keep two on hand.

Depending on the procedure, you might need an abdominal binder, or a compression girdle and for those who are undergoing a full body make over – like a mommy makeover – a full body compression garment is your best bet.

Also scar creams and gels can help with the scars left from the surgery.

Scar creams and gels might be helpful in decreasing the appearance of scars

Resurfacing laser treatment has been used to treat such skin conditions as wrinkles, moles, scars and acne. This procedure uses a laser beam that emits short pulses of energy to remove layers of superficial or damaged skin. As a result, resurfacing laser treatment has been an effective way to remove potential skin cancer spots.

Resurfacing laser treatments, also known as lasabrasion or a laser peel, actually vaporize the damaged cells of potential skin cancer spots. Because the duration of each pulse of the laser is so brief, healthy skin cells are not affected by the exposure to the intense heat. While there may be relatively mild side effects such as swelling, redness and bruising, recovery times generally last no longer than a week. These skin treatments are generally performed with a local anesthetic on an outpatient basis.

Before you consider resurfacing laser treatments for the treatment of potential skin cancer spots, it’s important to discuss your options with your physician or oncologist. Possible complications after resurfacing laser treatment include bacterial infections, hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin) and scarring. If you suffer from herpes, these skin treatments may trigger an outbreak.

Scar creams and scar gels can help with any possible scarring that might occur.  Though nothing may erase scars completely, by incorporating a scar management program you can great decrease the appearance of unslightly scars.

There are many ways to decrease wrinkles on your face

Wrinkle freezing treatment (REX) has become a popular and effective alternative to Botox injections for the treatment of wrinkles and frown lines. This procedure involves the insertion of a probe at a location near the temple. This probe sends radio frequency (RF) energy to limit the movement in forehead muscles that are responsible for frowning–and for frown lines.

Wrinkle freezing treatment (REX) provides several advantages over Botox injections. First of all, many patients feel uneasy with the idea of injecting the botulism virus into their bodies. Wrinkle freezing treatment (REX) is entirely non-toxic. Secondly, a single REX treatment can last 18 to 24 months. Most Botox injections only last three to six months.

On the other hand, many patients still prefer Botox treatment over wrinkle freezing treatment (REX). Botox has been on the market for many years, and its long-term effects are widely known. REX is a relatively new technology and is still under evaluation. Wrinkle freezing treatments also tend to produce more swelling, bruising and discomfort.

Both techniques are minimally evasive and take only about 30 minutes, and results are immediate. Your physician or plastic surgeon can help you to choose which wrinkle treatment is right for you.

Alternatively, you can opt for a face lift.  If this is the direction you think you might want to take, then be sure to read up on all the facts and information.  Also be sure you have a facial surgery recovery garment, also known as facial compression garments, to help keep the shape of the new you and to speed up the time for recovery.

Silver healing methods have to be employed under the careful supervision of a surgeon. That’s because healthy cells and bacteria are both sensitive to silver healing. A precise balance of silver ions has to be maintained so that bacteria is destroyed without affecting mammalian cells. New types of dressings use lower concentrations of silver than ever before to take advantage of new research in the field of silver healing.

Silver healing methods are often avoided in burns and amputations since there has already been extensive damage to cell tissue. Diabetic patients with poor blood circulation may also be poor candidates for silver healing. Ask your physician if silver healing methods are right for you.

Plastic surgeons first considered forehead lifts as a potential cure for migraines when they discovered that Botox injections could achieve similar but short-term results. These physicians do warn, however, that a forehead lift isn’t an ideal solution for all migraine sufferers. This procedure seems to be much more effective with patients who suffer frequent and severe migraines than those who only suffer occasional headaches. In other words, only about 10 to 15 percent of all migraine sufferers may be a good candidate for a forehead lift.

Some migraine specialists still recommend a combination of treatments for migraine therapy such as prescription drugs and acupuncture. Studies on the effectiveness of forehead lifts to relieve migraines are fairly conclusive, however, and many plastic surgeons now offer this option to their patients.

If a forehead lift is something you are considering, be sure to get all the information and tips on the procedure plus post surgery recovery.  More post surgery information, products and tips are right at your fingertips at www.ContourMD.com

Proper application of Silicone Sheeting can help prevent unnecessary scarring

Silicone sheeting is often used after surgery to repair the top layer of skin over scar tissue. These thin, transparent sheets are generally easy to use as well as comfortable. An effective scar management program is all about timing, and you’ll need to know when to apply silicone sheeting for the best results.

Silicone sheeting is basically a preventative measure, and you’ll need to start treatments before the scar begins to develop. At the same time, you’ll need to wait until the wound has closed and the sutures have been removed before you can apply the silicone sheeting. Remember, the tension from improperly or prematurely applied silicone sheeting may re-open the wound.

Many doctors recommend that the silicone sheeting applications should start roughly one week after the wound has closed and has become dry. One strong indication that the scar is ready for the sheet is the appearance of a red and itchy streak directly on the mature wound. Once you start with this scar management program, you can use silicone sheeting over a period of weeks or even months depending upon the severity of the wound and the results you get.

Get all the information you need on post surgery recovery and products at ContourMD.com.

Proper preparation for plastic surgery will help with the recovery time

When you prepare for plastic surgery, you can reduce both pre-operative stress and recovery times. Here are some useful tips:

1. Ask your surgeon what types of prescription or over-the-counter medications should be avoided. And what types of vitamins are recommended for post surgery recovery.
2. Quit smoking at least two weeks in advance of the operation when you prepare for plastic surgery. Smoking can cause post-operative complications that can delay recovery.
3. Buy at least two weeks’ worth of groceries, prescription medications, homeopathic medicines, dressings, gauze and antibacterial soap before the surgery. You’ll also need plenty of ice for cold packs to reduce the swelling.
4. Arrange for someone to transport you to and from the hospital. Someone should also stay with you for the first three days after the surgery in case of post-operative complications.
5. Discuss a proper post-operative diet with your surgeon when you prepare for plastic surgery. Foods that are high in protein and low in sodium may speed your recovery.
6. Wear loose clothing on the day of the surgery,  you may need additional room for any post-operative support garments.

It is recommended that you have at least two compression garments on hand.  Since they will be worn throughout the day, you should have an extra compression garment on hand while the other is being cleaned.

BodyShapers are a good option for post ultrasonic body sculpting

Ultrasonic body sculpting is a non-invasive, non-surgical way to reduce fat deposits in areas such as the chin, face, neck and under the bra line. These new ultrasound instruments are similar to traditional devices used by doctors to monitor pregnancies and other health issues. These new instruments, however, are able to concentrate high levels of ultrasound energy to precise locations on your body. Compared to traditional liposuction techniques, ultrasonic body sculpting is safe, painless and effective.

Ultrasonic body sculpting involves directing precise and powerful ultrasound energy at fat cells. Fat cells absorb this energy until they collapse. Since the healthy tissue isn’t affected, there is none of the swelling, bruising, soreness or nerve damage that can result from laser liposuction and traditional liposuction.

Keep in mind that ultrasonic body sculpting isn’t for everyone. If you have a body mass index of more than 30, ultrasound may need to be combined with other procedures such as laser liposuction for the best results. But if you have small areas of fat behind the knees, under the chin or in the breast region, ultrasonic body sculpting should be effective.

Wearing a liposuction recovery garment, also known as compression garments and girdles can help with maintaining the new shape of the body.

Recovery time may vary depending on the type of liposuction you are having.

For years, one of the main drawbacks of all types of liposuction procedures was the long recovery time. Fortunately, cosmetic surgeons now use new, different types of liposuction that are less invasive and require much shorter recovery times.  And as always, the use of a proper post surgical recovery garments, such as a compression girdle, abdominal binder or other liposuction recovery garments, will help speed the process.

More and more cosmetic surgery patients are opting for different types of liposuction that use lasers to melt away the fat. Laser liposuction requires much smaller incisions than traditional liposuction methods that use a large metal rod to vacuum out the fat cells. The heat of the lasers also shrinks the skin around the incision so that the healing process is usually much quicker.

Since these types of liposuction are much less invasive, a general anesthetic is not required. With general anesthesia, the risks of post-operative complications are much higher, which can increase recovery time. In addition, the local anesthesia used for laser liposuction allows patients to communicate with surgeons during the procedure, reporting any unusual sensations or discomfort that may indicate a problem.

Recovery from traditional liposuction can take weeks or even months depending on the procedure. These newer types of liposuction, however, are performed on an outpatient basis and patients can often be back to their normal routines within a couple of days while wearing a compression garment.

Push up bras are a quick solution for improving cleavage

If you want a bustline that turns heads, there are many ways to improve cleavage:

1. You can improve cleavage by purchasing a push-up bra or a breast augmentation bra. As a rule, these bras use extra padding, gel and underwire shaping to lift and sculpt your breasts.
2. Botox injections can be applied to the pectoral muscles under your breasts to improve cleavage. These injections stiffen the muscles and raise your breasts higher.
3. Carboxy therapy can be used to improve cleavage. In this procedure, carbon dioxide is injected under the skin of your breasts, which increases your body’s ability to produce collagen in this area. As a result, your cleavage will appear smoother and more youthful.
4. Herbal remedies such as pueraria mirifica can stimulate breast tissue with little or no side effects.
5. Get breast augmentation surgery. These days, cosmetic surgeons offer a wide variety of procedures that can enlarge, reduce or lift breasts.  If this is an option you are considering, get information on breast augmentation surgeries, what to do the prepare and what to do to recovery including having post surgical bras on hand for the healing process.

More and more women are considering breast lift surgery

Breast lift surgery is a procedure to correct breasts that are pendulous or lack firmness. This type of surgery can also be used in cases where the nipples point downward or are positioned below the crease of the breast. Unlike breast reduction or breast augmentation procedures, a breast lift generally does not affect the overall size of the breast. In addition, breast lift surgery does not affect the nipples and milk ducts, so women can continue to breast feed in a normal manner after the procedure.

Breast lift surgery usually consists of three incisions per breast. The first is made around the areola, the second runs vertically from the nipple to the breast crease and the third is beneath the breast and matches the natural curve in a horizontal manner. The nipple and areola is then shifted to a higher position and the skin is reshaped.

Breast lift surgery can include many variations depending on breast size, as well as on the shape and size of the areolas. Newer techniques may exclude the third horizontal incision for a less invasive procedure. Some patients may also choose to augment their breasts with an implant at this time.

It is also recommended to wear a post surgical bra immediately following the surgery.  Your doctor should fit you with the breast lift compression bra before leaving the office or the clinic.  With the new size and shape of your breast, you should consider a breast augmentation or breast lift bra to help maintain their shape.

For fat transfers involving the face, a facial compression wrap is recommended

Fat transfer is a safe, natural and non-allergenic alternative to such controversial wrinkle treatments as Botox. With fat transfer, you can have your own body fat removed through liposuction techniques and have it reapplied in order to recontour your face, neck and chin. This procedure can be used to plump up cheeks, correct facial deformities or aid in post-trauma or post-surgical defects. For these procedures, a facial compression wrap is recommended.

Fat transfer can be performed on an outpatient basis, so you won’t have to worry about long recovery times.  Post surgical recovery garments, also known as compression garments, can help with not only the healing time but also help your body maintain its new shape.

Here’s how it works:

1. A local anesthetic is applied to both the donor site (usually the thighs or the buttocks) and the treatment site.
2. A syringe is used to extract the fat cells from the donor site.
3. The fat is treated to remove impurities and is then re-injected into the treatment site.
4. The patient is fitted with a compression garment.

Fat transfer treatments can last up to three years. They are often combined with other treatments such as laser liposuction or ultrasound treatments for better results. First-time patients usually receive an initial injection that lasts six months, and then receive follow-up treatments three to four times during that same period.

Do note that fat transfer is not recommended for breasts since it can interfere with mammograms.

VASER liposuction is a good option to traditional liposuction

If you’re wondering whether VASER liposuction techniques will work for you, then it’s important to sit down and review the facts. Many VASER liposuction patients find that these procedures result in less post-operative pain and scarring, shorter recovery times and a lower risk of post-operative complications.

VASER liposuction will work for you if:

• You are targeting smaller areas for liposuction. VASER liposuction is ideal for such areas as the neck, arms, face and breasts.
• You are worried about scarring. VASER liposuction involves the insertion of a tiny laser through an equally tiny incision. Skin is also smoother and less prone to the bumps and bulges that can occur after traditional liposuction techniques.
• You are worried about long post-operative recovery times. Patients who have VASER liposuction procedures performed are often back to their routines within a couple of days.  With the help of post liposuction garments such as abdominal binders and compression girdles, the recovery time will be decrease.
• You are worried about undergoing general anesthesia. With VASER liposuction, a local anesthetic is applied to the area. That means the risk for post-operative complications is reduced, and that you can offer your plastic surgeon feedback or ask questions during the procedure.

You should sit down with your doctor or plastic surgeon with any other concerns you may have.
Learn More About Liposuction and Liposuction Recovery Products at ContourMD

Contour your body with VASER Liposuction

VASER liposuction, also known as Smart Lipo or laser-assisted lypolisis, is an alternative to traditional liposuction techniques that does not require the use of large incisions to remove unsightly bulges and bumps. Many cosmetic surgery patients prefer VASER liposuction because it is often less expensive that traditional liposuction. Recovery times may also be shorter, depending upon the specific procedure. Here’s how VASER liposuction works:

1. Prior to the VASER liposuction procedure, patients receive a local anesthesia to numb the area. Note that traditional liposuction techniques require a general anesthesia which can increase the risk for post-operative complications.  Then, tiny incisions are made in the areas targeted for VASER liposuction.
2. A small instrument called a cannula is inserted into the incisions and the laser light is applied to the fat. The cannula is about the same size as a cooked piece of spaghetti, which ensures that post-operative pain is much less severe than with the large metal rod that is used in traditional liposuction.
3. The light from the laser melts away the fat, and the heat from the laser causes the surrounding skin to shrink, prompting a quicker healing process.
4. With post liposuction recovery garments, patients are sent home after a few hours, unlike with traditional methods.  It is important for patients to wear compression garments – or post surgical recovery garments – for at least 3-4 weeks after their surgery.

Learn More About Liposuction and Liposuction Recovery Products at ContourMD

Psychiatrists recommend that you should undergo aesthetic procedures only if you're doing it to please yourself.

Aesthetic procedures such as liposuction, breast augmentation, facelifts and chemical peels are becoming more popular in the United States than ever before. If you’re wondering whether you are a good candidate for these aesthetic procedures, consider the following:

• You should understand the risks before you undergo aesthetic procedures. Any time a local or general anesthetic is used, post-operative complications can occur. Most of these complications can increase recovery time, and some can be life-threatening as well.
• You should be in relatively good health. People with conditions such as diabetes or heart disease should seriously consider whether they can endure aesthetic procedures that may damage tissue, nerves and blood vessels.
• You should be willing to change your lifestyle to accommodate the “new you.” For example, a liposuction patient should eat a more healthy diet to preserve new body contours and protect the somewhat sizeable investment.
• Choosing the right recovery program will be paramount to the “new you”.  Garments such as compression garments, liposuction recovery garments, breast augmentation bras, abdominal binders and compression girdles will help with the body  contouring, while scar creams, scar gels and other scar management products will help with possible scarring.