Reflections on Beauty

Reflections Spa

The economy may be tough, but one thing is clear: Americans still love minimally invasive cosmetic procedures. That was the gist of the latest report from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), which showed that in 2011, nearly 14 million cosmetic procedures were done in the U.S., and Americans spent more than $10 billion on them.

According to the report, there was a rise in the three main categories: common plastic surgery procedures, reconstructive surgeries and the minimally invasive cosmetic procedures, such as Botox injections and laser hair removal.

Botox is leading the way

The study showed that this overall growth seems to be driven by the fact that more Americans are seeing the benefits of minimally invasive procedures, especially Botox injections. The official website for Botox Cosmetics states that more than 11 million men and women have experienced the wrinkle-smoothing results of these simple injections.

In 2011, there were an estimated 5.7 minimally invasive procedures performed, which is a 5 percent increase from last year.

Minimally invasive, major results

According to 24/7 Wall St., the average surgical procedure costs $3,694, while the average minimally invasive procedure costs $376.

"Overall, cosmetic surgeries have become safer, more efficient and relatively cheaper. Generally done in an outpatient setting – in a doctor’s office or surgical center – they frequently require no overnight stays in the hospital," according to the news source.

The information provider spoke to ASPS President Malcolm Roth, M.D., who said that more people are calling for quick fixes with minimal down time. The doctor added that fillers like Botox are able to give people dramatic improvement to their appearance with less cost, risk and recovery time.

It's not just Botox

The news source discovered that the third most popular cosmetic procedure in the country is liposuction. While some people may believe that this is an invasive operation, it doesn't have to be, thanks to laser lipo. This involves targeted laser energy to help remove fat from problem areas of the body. This procedure is less expensive than traditional liposuction, and only calls for one to two days of downtime.

The results are clear: Thanks to Botox, lasers and other advancements in technology, cosmetic procedures are more popular, safe and affordable than ever before.
 

Reflections for Botox injections.

Many individuals view procedures like Botox injections or laser skin rejuvenation as luxuries reserved for the wealthy, despite them being more commonplace now than ever before. In Brazil, it appears as though the treatments are viewed as somewhat of a necessity, because clinics in the South American country are offering procedures at a significant discount or free of charge for low-income individuals.

The Washington Post spoke to some healthcare providers who are offering their services as a sort of charity to men and women seeking firmer necklines or wrinkle-free faces.

"What’s a wrinkle? Something minor, right? Something with precious little importance," said Nelson Rosas, a cosmetic surgeon at the Brazilian Society of Aesthetic Medicine's Rio clinic, quoted by the news source. "But when we treat the wrinkle, that unimportant little thing, we’re actually treating something very important: The patient’s self esteem."

Proponents of offering free or cheap cosmetic procedures to low-income individuals say that correcting a physical flaw may act as a sort of therapy, curing people of their insecurities. This notion was pioneered by plastic surgeon Ivo Pitanguy, according to the WaPo. Now 85 years old, Pitanguy still operates on all people – from the rich and famous to the less fortunate.

It's true that individuals need to be aware of the risks involved in cosmetic procedures – especially invasive operations like a breast augmentation. However, wanting a slight boost of self-esteem may be a legitimate reason for going under the scalpel, needle or laser, whatever the case may be.

An article that was published in Psych Central states that cosmetic enhancement can make a significant improvement in a person's self-esteem and sexual confidence. The news source cited a Barry University study which revealed that breast augmentation may result in an improved perception of self and sexual function in women.

However, people with significant self-esteem problems may not be ideal candidates for cosmetic procedures, as plastic surgery cannot fix deep-seated psychological issues.

"There may be patients who will never be satisfied with their bodies no matter how much surgery they receive or feel that their life will completely change after plastic surgery," said Cynthia Figueroa-Haas, a clinical assistant professor at the University of Florida College of Nursing, quoted by Psych Central.

Reflections for laser skin rejuvenation.

Individuals who desire a younger looking face or a slimmer waistline may be held back due to fears of scarring, infection or prolonged healing. However, there are many options available today that can help people look their best without incisions and stitches.

An ABC News article recently reported on the trend of minimally invasive cosmetic procedures, which typically entail injections, lasers or ultrasound devices, rather than knives or chisels. The news source spoke with a number of cosmetic surgeons and patients about why these new techniques are superior to the more invasive options of the past, or how they can complement traditional plastic surgery.

"I don't think one excludes the other," said dermatologist Doris Day, quoted by the news source. "However, my experience has been that you can get rid of lines and wrinkles, but that doesn't always make someone look younger; they just look smoother. What we lose over time is volume. And what we do is we – very carefully, naturally and discreetly – add back volume."

Day said that the "palette of tools available" today allows both deep and superficial treatments to provide patients with a natural look.

She also described new forms of laser liposuction, which melt fat so it can be suctioned out more easily than traditional methods, resulting in smaller incisions and lesser scarring. According to Day, these procedures are ideal for men and women who want to slow the hands of time.

"Well, it may not be that you never look old, but you can put it a long way off," said Day, quoted by the news source. "We can slow that process down in a very natural way with these procedures."

The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine reports that Botox injections are among the most common cosmetic procedures in the country. This minimally invasive treatment works by relaxing muscles in the face that cause wrinkles, especially those in the forehead or around the eyes.

Other popular cosmetic enhancements that can be performed sans scalpel include laser skin rejuvenation, Restylane injections, SlimLipo and acne laser treatment.

While these procedures tend to be safer and result in fewer complications than most traditional methods, people should still do their research before making any appointments. This includes looking into their desired treatment, as well as the facility and healthcare provider they plan to use.
 

Reflections for laser skin rejuvenation.

Men and women who consider going under the scalpel, needle or laser in order to get rid of wrinkles often have one very specific question in mind: "How young will this make me look?" A team of researchers at the University of Toronto recently quantified just how much difference cosmetic procedures can make in other people's perception of age.

In order to reach their conclusions, the team of scientists showed a group of medical students photographs of 60 patients before and after a facelift and asked them to estimate their ages. On average, the images of the individuals after their operations were rated as being about six to eight years younger than their before pictures.

The study's lead author and plastic surgeon, Nitin Chauhan, M.D., spoke with Health.com about the findings.

"It’s nice to have an objective measure," said Chauhan. "Some of our patients like to have concrete numbers to look at, and the more information you can provide, the more it facilitates decision-making."

The results may help healthcare providers manage patient expectations during counseling, which is a very important part of the cosmetic procedure process.

"Nothing we do is magical," he said. "We do certainly get 60-year-old patients who want to look 40, and this will help us when we discuss expectations."

The desire for a slightly younger looking appearance is not only a common reason for obtaining a cosmetic procedure, but it's also a sign that an individual is a good candidate for the treatment or operation, as long as they're doing it for their own satisfaction, according to MedicineNet.com.

Wanting to simply enhance your own natural beauty signifies that you have realistic expectations of what procedures – from Botox injections to invasive facelifts – can do for you. Individuals who seek plastic surgery or other treatments to look like another person may want to discuss this with their healthcare provider, who can determine whether they are a good candidate for the procedure or if they would be better off choosing another way to boost their self-esteem.

Additionally, invasive surgeries like facelifts and tummy tucks aren't for everyone. If all you need is a slight change, consider the number of new laser or injectable treatments – such as laser skin rejuvenation or Restylane injections – which come with fewer risks and provide noticeable results.
 

Reflections for Botox injections.

Men and women in their 60s appear to be more accepting of procedures to make them look younger – such as Botox injections or laser skin rejuvenation – than in years past, possibly due to the availability of treatments that provide subtle results with minimal side effects.

An article in the Chicago Tribune explores this trend and spoke with some people who underwent these minimally invasive procedures for varying reasons.

One woman, a 66-year-old the news source nicknamed Arleen in order to protect her identity, reported that her facial injections and partial facelift have helped her retain confidence in the workplace, where she manages many younger employees.

"All of this has made a difference and I'm very satisfied with the results," Arleen said, quoted by the news source. "It took five to seven years off, and when you're working it's important. I have younger people working under me, and I don't want to look too old."

The Tribune also spoke with a man in his 60s, who said that retirement spurred his decision to obtain a more youthful appearance.

"I was very busy before," he said, quoted by the news source "but I noticed as I aged that my cheeks got a sunken look to them."

Marc Karlan, M.D., otolaryngology professor at Northwestern University, told the news source that outside of the big cities, people prefer a more natural look, especially older individuals.

"The older my patient is, the more likely they lead with 'I want to look better but I don't want to look done.'" Karlan said, quoted by the news source. "They don't want to look frozen. In the Midwest, people want to look like themselves."

According to Spire Healthcare, there has been a 303 percent increase in the number of women in their 60s obtaining cosmetic procedures, and a 168 percent hike for men in the same age group.

The organization states that national statistics reveal that even people in their 70s are more interested now than in the past in cosmetic procedures, as there has been a 175 percent increase in men and 133 percent hike in women in this age group receiving elective surgery.

Spire Healthcare notes that individuals who are interested in even minimally invasive procedures – such as Botox injections or laser skin rejuvenation – should seek out an experienced, accredited facility or medical spa.
 

Reflections for laser skin rejuvenation.

For some viewers, the excitement of the Academy Awards has more to do with getting a glimpse of glamorous celebrities decked out in the latest high fashions than it does with seeing which movie wins Best Picture. Year after year, actors and actress put their best foot forward on the red carpet, leading many to wonder just how they maintain their preternatural good looks.
Well, one such way is through minimally invasive cosmetic procedures, according to California plastic surgeon Babak Azizzadeh.

"Celebrities always look flawless, but on Oscar night they truly look their best. Whether they just need a little volume boost or a surgical lift, there are a variety of treatments I can perform to help them achieve their desired look," Azizzadeh said.

Some older stars who experience sagging or visible wrinkles may choose a neck lift or a "mini facelift" in order to look younger for the big night. The neck is a common site for cosmetic enhancement, because it has a tendency to sag or hold fat deposits, acting as a pretty obvious sign that someone is in their golden years.

Additionally, minimally invasive facelifts are not a one-size-fits-all deal, as they're easily tailored to suit a patient's features and preferences to obtain the most natural-looking outcome.

Younger actors and actresses who are just beginning to see the signs of aging often choose more subtle procedures, like Botox or Restylane injections. These products can be used around the brows and eyes for a younger appearance without scalpels.

Facial peels or laser skin rejuvenation are also popular procedures, as they help eliminate minor flaws and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles before going under the spotlight – not to mention the incessant flash of cameras.

"Regardless of the celebrity's age, the goal of cosmetic treatments is always the same – achieving natural looking results. On a night as highly publicized as the Oscars, it is vital my celebrity clients merely look refreshed, and not like they have had a lot of work done," said Azizzadeh.

Non-famous individuals seeking skin as luminous as Charlize Theron's or a face as flawless as Angelina Jolie's may want to consider doing their homework when choosing a medical spa or facility. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider before undergoing any kind of procedure, asking about accreditation, experience, expectations and standards of care.
 

Reflections for laser skin rejuvenation.

Every bride wants to look her best on her wedding day, which is why so much time is spent on picking out a gown, devising a makeup strategy and perfecting a hairstyle – not to mention the painstaking efforts made to ensure flattering lighting and photographs. As such, many brides-to-be consider minimally invasive cosmetic procedures in the months leading up to their big day.

The photos, videos and memories from your wedding will be treasured keepsakes for years to come, so it makes sense that you would want to fix minor imperfections before walking down the aisle. But it's important to do your research before going under the laser or needle.

Timing is a key issue when thinking about cosmetic procedures for a specific day, as many take time to heal or take full effect. So, you'll want to make your first step a consultation with an experienced professional. Talk to your healthcare provider about issues that you would like to fix before your big day – from acne scars, to unwanted hair, to fine lines and wrinkles. Be sure that your doctor knows the exact date of your wedding, and even go so far as to ask twice about healing times. The last thing you want is a telltale sign of a cosmetic procedure on your face.

Botox injections or Restylane treatments are good options for pre-wedding plumping or wrinkle-reducing. These products have been used for a long time, so many healthcare providers are well-versed on predicting outcomes and providing natural-looking fuller lips or a less exaggerated forehead crease. It's generally recommended that brides try out the injectables one month before their wedding.

Laser skin rejuvenation may ensure that you have a youthful glow about you during your big day. Whether your problem is uneven tone, fine lines or sun spots, the treatment has been shown to zap these issues with minimal healing time, giving you a flawless complexion without the need for layers of foundation and powder.

Getting rid of unwanted hair with laser hair removal is also a great pre-wedding treatment. Moreover, having follicles on the legs or bikini line zapped during the months leading up to the ceremony can have a big added bonus if you're going somewhere warm for your honeymoon – bye-bye razors and shaving cream!

Reflections for laser skin rejuvenation.

When the temperatures drop outside and the air becomes devoid of moisture, many men and women notice that their skin tends to look drier and fine lines and wrinkles are more apparent than in the warmer months. Rather than letting the winter winds get the best of your skin, consider the many things you can do to fight Mother Nature.

First, remember to drink plenty of water. This will help combat thirsty skin that results from dry air, help keep cells healthy and organs functioning properly. Additionally, eat plenty of fruits, vegetables and sources of omega-3 fatty acids, such as nuts and fish. These nutritious foods are known to brighten the complexion and promote the production of natural oils in the skin.

You may also want to consider switching up your skincare routine. Choose a cleanser that is sulfate-free, as this foaming chemical is sometimes the reason behind dry skin. Instead, look for a milky or gel cleanser that gently cleans your face. Also, many individuals require a heavier moisturizer during the winter than they do in the summer. Try a few different products to see what works best for you, and avoid ones that are heavily fragranced.

Winter is also a great time to try Botox injections or laser skin rejuvenation. This is because you'll likely be cooped up in the house more than usual anyway, and both procedures require you to avoid the sun for a certain period of time afterward. 

Additionally, while Botox injections and laser skin rejuvenation result in little to no downtime following a treatment, they tend to show visible results only weeks or months following a procedure.

The laser skin rejuvenation process begins with the application of short bursts of laser by a professional to the epidermis. Rather than destroying the top layer of skin, this treatment targets the middle layer to stimulate the production of collagen and new cells, resulting in a reduced appearance of fine lines, sun spots and discoloration.

Botox injections have been the tried-and-true method of wrinkle treatments for decades. The treatment involves the administration of a botulinum toxin directly to the site of a crease or line, where it works to relax the underlying muscles and smooth the face.

While these treatments have been shown to be safe and effective, individuals considering minimally invasive cosmetic procedures should seek an experienced, accredited facility or spa, and consult with a healthcare professional before going through with a treatment.

Reflections for laser liposuction.

Men and women in their 20s may be considering minimally invasive cosmetic procedures as a preventative measure, to help preserve their youthful appearance as they enter their 30s. While certain treatments are certainly effective in doing this, others can do little to stave off the signs of aging because they're meant to treat existing problems.

For example, young adults who are concerned about crow's feet or marionette lines later on may be better off practicing healthy lifestyle habits rather than getting Botox injections or laser skin rejuvenation. These treatments are meant to provide immediate or gradual improvement of fine lines and wrinkles, not to prevent them. However, if a 20-something does happen to have a deep facial crease or acne scars, then injectables or laser acne treatment may be able to help.

Young men and women who want to maintain their good skin should remember to use sunblock when going outdoors, drink plenty of water and eat a diet rich in vitamins and minerals, and save injections and peels until they need them.

However, there are some minimally invasive cosmetic procedures for which 20-somethings are ideal candidates, such as laser liposuction.

"A patient in their twenties considering liposuction can take advantage of the youthful, elastic state of their skin and improve the overall aesthetic outcome. While it may not be essential, liposuction as a preventative measure can help a patient address areas that bother them now while their ability to bounce back is greater," said plastic surgeon Lauren Greenberg, M.D., of California.

Moreover, since laser liposuction permanently removes pockets of fat, the procedure may help women stay firm throughout and after a pregnancy.

Individuals who are considering a cosmetic treatment should speak with their healthcare provider about the risks involved, as well as their psychological readiness and expectations for the treatment. Ideal candidates for these procedures should have a realistic idea of the outcome and be getting the treatment for their own personal reasons, and not to please someone else. A patient should also be in good physical health to ensure proper healing and keep the chances of complications low.

Additionally, it's important to seek out a board-certified, accredited healthcare provider in order to obtain the best possible care and minimize risks.

Reflections for Botox injections.

When plastic surgery first became a trend, the typical customer was an aging socialite living in a big city. Also, patients were once left with noticeable scars and required to spend long stretches of time in recovery. With today's advances in technology, there are more minimally invasive procedures than ever – from laser liposuction to Botox injections – and the stereotype of a patient receiving these treatments is no longer relevant or accurate.

An article in the Philadelphia newspaper The Inquirer reported on evolving trends in cosmetic surgery, stating that healthcare providers in the 1960s could never have dreamed up the treatments that are available today.

Plastic surgeon Daniel Baker told the news source that the variety not only means more options, but also a need for research on the part of the patient.

"It's a new world, where it's difficult to separate the hype form the science," said Baker, quoted by the news source. "Every patient must be a savvy consumer."

Cosmetic surgery clients range from 20-somethings looking for a breast augmentation, to men seeking subtle changes to look younger in the workplace, to older women seeking alternatives to traditional face lifts, such as laser skin rejuvenation.

"The evolution in the face lift is astounding, with less radical lifts, minimal scarring, lower morbidity and shorter recovery time," Baker said, quoted by The Inquirer.

The LA Times also reported on the growing diversity of minimally invasive aesthetic treatments, describing a modern medical spa as a "smorgasboard of the latest nonsurgical cosmetic procedures."

According to the news source both the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and the American Society of Cosmetic Dermatology and Aesthetic Surgery estimate that about 80 percent of cosmetic procedures in 2010 that were performed in-office did not involve scalpels or stitches.

The LA Times spoke with president of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Jeffrey Kenkel, who confirmed that there appears to be a growing demand for new procedures, such as laser liposuction or laser skin rejuvenation.

"Some patients only want a little bit of change," Kenkel said, quoted by the news source. "Others "just aren't interested in a surgical option."

The surgeon said that patients should seek out a healthcare provider who can give them realistic expectations for the outcome of a procedure, as well as provide a full range of services.