What Is the Difference Between a Browlift and a Blepharoplasty?

What Is the Difference Between a Browlift and a Blepharoplasty?

A browlift and a blepharoplasty may seem similar, but there are many notable differences between the two procedures. If a person can differentiate between browlift and blepharoplasty procedures, he or she can determine which treatment can deliver the optimal facial rejuvenation results.

With a browlift, an individual can eliminate sagging skin on the forehead. A browlift is used to reposition underlying forehead muscles and tissues. As a result, a browlift helps a person achieve a smooth, youthful contour in the upper portion of the face.

Comparatively, a blepharoplasty is used to remove bags from the lower eyelids and excess skin from the upper eyelids. The procedure is commonly performed for cosmetic reasons. Or, in some cases, it is used to correct sagging upper eyelids that hinder a person's vision.

Which Is Better: A Browlift or a Blepharoplasty?

Deciding between a browlift and a blepharoplasty is sometimes difficult. Both procedures are safe and effective and deliver beautiful results. Ultimately, choosing whether to undergo a browlift or a blepharoplasty depends on the patient and his or her facial rejuvenation treatment goals.

For example, a browlift often helps an individual minimize the appearance of a heavy, sagging brow. At the same time, the procedure raises drooping eyebrows, reduces deep furrows and rejuvenates the eyes.

On the other hand, blepharoplasty surgery is used to remove excess fat, skin and muscle around the eyes. Two types of blepharoplasty procedures are available: upper and lower eyelid blepharoplasty surgery. An upper eyelid blepharoplasty corrects excess skin, muscle folds and fat in the corner of the eye. Meanwhile, a lower eyelid blepharoplasty eliminates excess fat deposits that cause puffiness of the lower eyelids.

For those who are considering a browlift or blepharoplasty, consulting with an expert facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon is key. That way, an individual can learn about browlift and blepharoplasty procedures, how they work and how they can be used to enhance his or her facial appearance.

Why Should You Choose Dr. Babak Azizzadeh to Perform a Browlift or Blepharoplasty Procedure?

Dr. Babak Azizzadeh of the CENTER for Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery in Los Angeles is a world-renowned facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon with many years of experience. He performs browlift and blepharoplasty treatments – and other facial plastic surgery procedures – and is happy to share his expertise with patients. By doing so, Dr. Azizzadeh can help patients decide if a browlift or blepharoplasty is the right choice based on their facial rejuvenation treatment goals.

Dr. Azizzadeh is committed to patient success. To help patients accomplish their facial rejuvenation treatment goals, Dr. Azizzadeh performs a comprehensive evaluation before he administers a browlift, blepharoplasty or any other procedure.

During a patient consultation, Dr. Azizzadeh examines a patient's facial features and learns about his or her treatment goals. He then crafts a personalized treatment plan for a patient. Next, Dr. Azizzadeh works with a patient to put this plan into action. And if a patient has concerns or questions at any point during a facial rejuvenation treatment, Dr. Azizzadeh is ready to address them.

By meeting with Dr. Azizzadeh, an individual can learn about the differences between a browlift and a blepharoplasty – and much more. To find out more about browlift and blepharoplasty procedures, please contact us today at 310-657-2203 to set up a consultation with Dr. Azizzadeh.


Dr. Babak Azizzadeh Inducted into the RealSelf 100 & 500 Hall of Fame

Dr. Babak Azizzadeh Inducted into the RealSelf 100 & 500 Hall of Fame

Dr. Babak Azizzadeh, a globally recognized facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon and RealSelf Top Doctor, has been inducted into the RealSelf 100 & 500 Hall of Fame. The honor recognizes Dr. Azizzadeh's continuous dedication to offer thoughtful responses to consumers' facial plastic and reconstructive surgery questions, transparency about his level of service and the encouragement he provides to consumers to post unbiased surgery reviews and ratings.

RealSelf 100 & 500 Hall of Fame: Here's What You Need to Know

The RealSelf 100 & 500 Hall of Fame recognizes the top RealSelf Doctors. All Hall of Fame inductees are board-certified doctors, and they must meet stringent criteria, including:

  • Won at least one RealSelf 100 or RealSelf 500 award in the past eight years
  • Consistently answer consumer questions
  • Regularly receive highly rated consumer reviews
  • Frequently post patient before and after photos

Hall of Fame inductees display an ongoing commitment to patient education, which is reflected in the following Hall of Fame stats:

  • More than 1.8 million total answers to Q&As have come from inductees
  • 194,377 total patient before and after photos have been published by inductees
  • 51,917 total patient reviews have been published for inductees

Dr. Azizzadeh has provided more than 1,000 expert answers to consumers' facial plastic and reconstructive surgery questions, and his RealSelf profile has been viewed at least 88,000 times. Additionally, Dr. Azizzadeh has published patient before and after photos for a variety of surgical and non-surgical facial plastic and reconstructive procedures, including:

Botox:

Temporarily smooths fine lines and wrinkles that occur due to excess muscle movement in the face.

Neck Lift:

Trims excess skin, removes fat deposits and corrects muscle laxity in the neck and jawline.

Rhinoplasty:

Helps an individual reshape his or her nose and ensure it complements the cheeks, chin and other facial features.

Revision Rhinoplasty:

Allows a person to correct aesthetic and/or functional problems that occur following an initial nose job.

Ultherapy:

Uses ultrasound technology to lift and tighten the skin, as well as stimulate collagen growth.

Dr. Azizzadeh is one of 209 California RealSelf Top Doctors to be inducted into the Hall of Fame. Yet his holistic approach to patient care helps him stand out from other facial plastic and reconstructive surgeons across the United States.

A Closer Look at Dr. Azizzadeh's Holistic Approach to Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

Dr. Azizzadeh has performed facial plastic and reconstructive procedures on executives, dignitaries and celebrities, among other notable individuals. One of the key reasons why Dr. Azizzadeh is highly sought-after for facial plastic and reconstructive surgery is his devotion to provide each patient with a personalized treatment.

Before Dr. Azizzadeh conducts a facial plastic and reconstructive procedure, he requests a patient consultation. This allows Dr. Azizzadeh to meet with a patient and learn about this individual and his or her facial plastic and reconstructive surgery goals. It also enables Dr. Azizzadeh to perform a comprehensive review of a patient's facial features and medical history and offer a custom treatment recommendation.

During a consultation, Dr. Azizzadeh examines a patient's facial features. Dr. Azizzadeh's goal is to help a patient achieve facial harmony, and he understands that even a minor change to one facial feature may have far-flung effects on all others. Thus, Dr. Azizzadeh conducts an in-depth review of a patient's facial features so he can determine the best course of action to help this individual achieve his or her desired facial plastic and reconstructive treatment results.

Dr. Azizzadeh also leverages the Vectra 3D imaging system to photograph and review a patient's face from all angles. He then uses these images to show a patient the potential outcome of a facial plastic and reconstructive procedure.

Dr. Azizzadeh analyzes a patient's medical history, too. If Dr. Azizzadeh believes there is any risk of severe medical complications related to a facial plastic and reconstructive procedure, he works with a patient to provide a safe, effective alternative.

After Dr. Azizzadeh evaluates a patient, he offers a facial plastic and reconstructive surgery treatment recommendation tailored to this individual. Dr. Azizzadeh responds to a patient's facial plastic and reconstructive surgery concerns and queries and ensures he or she knows exactly what to expect throughout treatment.

Dr. Azizzadeh works with a patient to ensure his or her facial plastic and reconstructive surgery recovery stays on course as well. Following a facial plastic and reconstructive procedure, Dr. Azizzadeh requests follow-up appointments. He also helps a patient establish realistic expectations for post-surgery recovery.

Schedule a Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Consultation with Dr. Azizzadeh

Dr. Azizzadeh is proud to be inducted into the RealSelf 100 & 500 Hall of Fame, and his commitment to deliver outstanding patient care is consistent. Going forward, Dr. Azizzadeh will continue to work with patients to provide them with exceptional care so they can accomplish their facial plastic and reconstructive surgery goals.

Dr. Azizzadeh is happy to help a patient review his or her facial plastic surgery treatment options. To find out more, please contact us today at 310-657-2203 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Azizzadeh.


How to Prepare Your Skin for Winter Weather

How to Prepare Your Skin for Winter Weather

Winter brings cold temperatures and dry conditions that deplete the skin's natural oils. Additionally, winter weather sometimes leads to windburn, a condition that causes skin dryness, redness and irritation.

For those who are worried about winter weather and its effects on the skin, there is no need to stress. In fact, there are many ways to prepare the skin for winter weather, such as:

Clean the Skin with Lukewarm Water

A hot bath or shower may feel good in wintertime, but it removes essential oils from the skin. Thus, whenever possible, choose lukewarm water over hot water to clean the skin.

Moisturize After a Bath or Shower

This winter, keep a bottle of moisturizer near a bathtub, shower or bathroom sink and apply moisturizer immediately following a bath or shower. This helps seal dampness to the skin. Also, ZO Skin Health Renewal Crème can be used to enhance skin moisture and promote healthy skin repair.

Gear Up for the Winter Weather

Wear gloves and a scarf to safeguard the face against wind, snow and other inclement weather. And remember, excess exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage the skin, even in winter. Therefore, pick up sunscreen that contains zinc oxide or titanium dioxide and apply it to exposed skin before sledding, skiing or other outdoor winter activities.

Adjust the Thermostat

Let's face it – the temptation to crank the thermostat as high is possible may be overwhelming in winter. Yet setting the thermostat to a high temperature increases air dryness, and as a result, may lead to skin damage. Instead, set the thermostat between 68°F and 72°F. This offers a comfortable indoor temperature and helps limit the risk of skin dryness.

Install a Humidifier

A heating system may be used to warm up a home or office during wintertime, but it removes moisture from the air. Fortunately, a humidifier makes it simple to put moisture back into the air and prevent skin dryness.

Stay Hydrated

A cup of coffee, tea or hot cocoa often is a must-have on a frigid winter day, but these beverages should not replace water. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated during wintertime. The daily recommended amount of water for adults is eight 8-oz. glasses, according to Mayo Clinic. Stick to this goal, and if possible, choose a cup of warm water with lemon over coffee, tea or hot cocoa.

Exfoliate the Skin

Dead skin cells may accumulate on the hands and face in winter. To eliminate dead skin cells, use an exfoliating cream regularly. ZO Skin Health's Exfoliating Cleanser and Exfoliating Polish, for example, may be beneficial during wintertime. The ZO Skin Health Exfoliating Cleanser unclogs pores, removes dirt and surface oil on the skin and soothes irritated skin. Meanwhile, the ZO Skin Health Exfoliating Polish features magnesium crystals that remove dead skin cells and exfoliate the skin.

Choose the Right Skin Cleanser

Not all skin cleansers are identical, and some actually dry out the skin, particularly in winter. As such, it is important to evaluate skin cleansers closely and choose one that hydrates the skin. The ZO Skin Health Gentle Cleanser may prove to be exceedingly valuable, especially for people who are concerned about dry skin. This cleanser simultaneously removes skin impurities and hydrates the skin. It also is designed for all skin types.

Clearly, there are many things that can be done to minimize skin damage in winter. In addition to the aforementioned winter skin care tips, Dr. Babak Azizzadeh of the CENTER for Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery in Los Angeles can provide expert skin care assistance year-round.

Dr. Azizzadeh has dual certification in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery and head and neck surgery (otolaryngology). Dr. Azizzadeh's unique expertise allows him to provide comprehensive guidance as individuals search for the best ways to treat assorted skin conditions. Plus, as a ZO Skin Health physician partner, Dr. Azizzadeh offers ZO Skin Health products as part of a physician-supervised skin health program.

Dr. Azizzadeh is happy to meet with an individual and offer a personalized ZO Skin Health treatment recommendation. To set up a ZO Skin Health consultation with Dr. Azizzadeh, please contact us today at 310-657-2203.


Dr. Babak Azizzadeh to Host Multi-Specialty Plastic Surgery Symposium

Dr. Babak Azizzadeh to Host Multi-Specialty Plastic Surgery Symposium

Dr. Babak Azizzadeh, a globally recognized facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, will host the Multi-Specialty Plastic Surgery Symposium at the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. The two-day symposium begins November 3 and includes a series of information sessions conducted by Dr. Azizzadeh and other plastic surgery experts.

The symposium is designed for healthcare professionals who want to learn about dermatology and plastic surgery. It will focus on a variety of aesthetic and reconstructive plastic surgery topics, such as:

  • Selective Neurolysis: Pioneered by Dr. Azizzadeh, selective neurolysis is a cutting-edge treatment for partial facial paralysis and synkinesis. Dr. Azizzadeh will discuss selective neurolysis, how it is performed and how it helps partial facial paralysis and synkinesis patients achieve a dynamic smile.
  • Rhinoplasty and Nasal Reconstruction: Azizzadeh possesses advanced rhinoplasty and nasal reconstruction surgery expertise. He will provide insights into rhinoplasty and nasal reconstruction surgery techniques, along with how to determine the best approach to help a patient achieve a naturally beautiful and fully functional nose.
  • Eyelid and Eyebrow Surgery: Azizzadeh has extensive experience with eyelid and eyebrow surgeries. He will offer tips and recommendations to help improve patient outcomes and reduce the risk of complications during eyelid and eyebrow procedures.
  • Breast Revision Surgery: Breast implant revision surgery is used to replace old breast implants with new implants. At the symposium, attendees will learn how to evaluate breast revision surgery candidates and apply best practices to achieve the safest and most effective treatment results.
  • Craniofacial Anomalies: Craniofacial anomalies are irregularities that affect the head and facial bones. They may occur at birth, and in some instances, require surgery. Meanwhile, symposium attendees will receive insights into the clinical manifestations of craniofacial anomalies and proper management of craniosynostosis, a condition that affects normal brain and skull growth.
  • Venous Malformations: Venous malformations occur when veins develop incorrectly, and they may cause veins to stretch or become enlarged. During the symposium, attendees will examine current and emerging multimodal therapies to treat venous malformations.

Dr. Azizzadeh will participate in several presentations and panel discussions at the symposium. These include:

  • Rhinoplasty: Tips and Traps: Rhinoplasty is among the most common cosmetic surgeries, and it is used to help individuals improve facial harmony and correct nasal asymmetry. Yet not all rhinoplasty surgeries are identical, and tailoring a rhinoplasty to a patient is key. During this presentation, Dr. Azizzadeh will discuss rhinoplasty surgery, as well as provide tips and recommendations to ensure nose job patients can achieve a balanced and natural-looking facial appearance.
  • Panel Discussion: Challenging Rhinoplasty Case Presentation: Rhinoplasty surgery is complex. Multiple types of nose procedures are available, and sometimes, determining the best way to help a patient reshape the nose and ensure it matches his or her eyes, cheeks and other facial features may be difficult. In this panel discussion, Dr. Azizzadeh and other rhinoplasty surgery experts will examine a case study that highlights some of the most common challenges associated with nose procedures.
  • Special Guest Bernard Sarnat Lecture: Facial Rejuvenation – Current Considerations: Azizzadeh has a simple facial plastic surgery goal: to help a patient rejuvenate his or her facial appearance. To accomplish this goal, he takes a holistic approach to facial plastic surgery. Dr. Azizzadeh meets with a patient, performs comprehensive testing and evaluates his or her medical history. He then offers a personalized facial plastic surgery treatment recommendation. In this presentation, Dr. Azizzadeh will discuss some of the current considerations related to facial rejuvenation procedures with Bahman Guyuron, MD, FACS.
  • Selective Neurectomy: Novel Treatment for Partial Facial Paralysis: Azizzadeh developed selective neurectomy to help partial facial paralysis and synkinesis patients restore their smile. Selective neurectomy addresses abnormal regeneration of the facial nerve that prevents partial facial paralysis and synkinesis patients from smiling. It corrects this "mis-wiring," and to date, selective neurectomy has delivered unprecedented facial reanimation results. In this presentation, Dr. Azizzadeh will discuss selective neurectomy and how it provides the first permanent treatment option for patients who are dealing with partial facial paralysis or synkinesis.

Aesthetic and reconstructive plastic surgeries vary widely. Patients may consider surgical or non-surgical procedures to address birth defects, revitalize their facial appearance, correct nasal deformities and reshape the body, among other reasons.

For healthcare professionals, it is important to keep pace with patient requirements. If these professionals possess skills and knowledge related to current and emerging plastic surgery technologies and techniques, they may be better equipped than ever before to help patients achieve the best-possible treatment results.

The Multi-Specialty Plastic Surgery Symposium provides clinical programming to help healthcare professionals fulfill patient requests. It offers insights into both surgical and non-surgical treatments, along with insights into different aspects of facial rejuvenation, nose surgery, nasal reconstruction and eyelid surgery. Plus, the symposium highlights the latest advances in breast revision surgery, craniosynostosis, management of migraine headaches and complex venous malformation therapy. It even teaches attendees about body contouring techniques, including fat grafting and non-surgical and post-bariatric approaches.

Dr. Azizzadeh is proud to participate in the Multi-Specialty Plastic Surgery Symposium, and he is happy to help patients achieve their facial plastic surgery goals in any way possible. As Chairman and Director of the CENTER for Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery in Los Angeles, Dr. Azizzadeh strives to help facial plastic surgery patients, as well as patients in need of complex facial nerve procedures. For those who want to find out more about facial plastic surgery treatments, please contact the CENTER today at 310-657-2203 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Azizzadeh.


Facial Rejuvenation Treatments for Patients in Their 40s, 50s and 60s

Facial Rejuvenation Treatments for Patients in Their 40s, 50s and 60s

At the CENTER for Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery in Los Angeles, Dr. Babak Azizzadeh takes a holistic approach to facial rejuvenation treatments, regardless of a patient's age. "'Facelift' is just a terminology, and we should more focus on 'facial rejuvenation,'" Dr. Azizzadeh says. "Every individual is unique in their natural anatomy and aging process … [and] the ultimate goal is to make every person their best self: attractive, youthful, elegant and natural."

The right facial rejuvenation treatment depends on a patient and his or her treatment goals. Fortunately, Dr. Azizzadeh learns about a patient and crafts a personalized facial rejuvenation treatment plan. He then works with a patient to execute this plan and ensure a patient can achieve his or her desired facial rejuvenation results.

Prior to a facial rejuvenation procedure, Dr. Azizzadeh requests a patient consultation. At this point, Dr. Azizzadeh examines a patient's facial features and reviews his or her medical history. Additionally, Dr. Azizzadeh uses the Aging Arc concept to explain to his patients how the aging process works in correlation to age.  By doing so, the Aging Arc helps a patient determine the best course of action to address the visible signs of aging in his or her face and to put them in the positive range of the Aging Arc.

After Dr. Azizzadeh evaluates a patient, he offers a facial rejuvenation treatment recommendation. Dr. Azizzadeh outlines all stages of a facial rejuvenation treatment plan and responds to a patient's concerns or questions.

Dr. Azizzadeh understands the healing process following a facial rejuvenation procedure varies based on a patient's age and the exact procedures performed. Thus, Dr. Azizzadeh helps a patient establish realistic facial rejuvenation treatment goals. Dr. Azizzadeh also requests regular follow-up appointments to ensure a patient's recovery stays on track.

What Facial Rejuvenation Treatments Are Available?

A patient may qualify for one or more non-surgical facial rejuvenation procedures. For example, common non-surgical facial rejuvenation treatments for patients in their 40s, 50s and 60s include:

  • Botox: Temporarily smooths fine lines and wrinkles in the face. Botox treatments are among the most-popular non-surgical facial rejuvenation procedures in the United States. Dr. Azizzadeh administers Botox injections to help patients correct fine lines, wrinkles and furrows caused by excessive muscle movements in the face.
  • Dermal Fillers: Address fine lines and creases in the face. Dermal fillers replace lost collagen and volume in order to treat visible signs of aging in the face. Dr. Azizzadeh offers Voluma, Restylane and other dermal filler treatments. Also, Dr. Azizzadeh works with a patient to determine if a combination of dermal fillers and Botox can be used to enhance his or her facial appearance.
  • Skincare: Involves the use of skincare products that revitalize the skin. Dr. Azizzadeh provides ZO Skin Health products as part of a physician-supervised skin health program. These products include a gentle cleanser, exfoliating cleanser and oil control acne pads.

In some instances, Dr. Azizzadeh recommends facelift surgery for patients in their 40s, 50s and 60s, too. A facelift helps an individual reduce the appearance of wrinkles, frown lines and other visible signs of aging in his or her face. As such, it is a popular facial rejuvenation treatment for people in their 40s, 50s and 60s.

Dr. Azizzadeh tailors a facelift surgery to his patient. That way, facelift surgery helps a patient rejuvenate his or her facial appearance, as well as correct any fold lines between the nose and mouth and loose skin and excess fat on the neck.

Before a facelift procedure, Dr. Azizzadeh administers general anesthesia to a patient. He then makes a small, well-hidden incision along the edge of a patient's ear and into the scalp that extends just a few centimeters. After the procedure, Dr. Azizzadeh closes the surgical incisions with sutures; some sutures dissolve on their own, while others are removed a few days following treatment. Dr. Azizzadeh also provides detailed instructions to ensure a patient can take care of his or her sutures after a facelift surgery.

Which Facial Rejuvenation Treatment Is Right for You?

A facial rejuvenation treatment is designed to help a patient achieve a balanced and natural-looking facial appearance. Therefore, Dr. Azizzadeh often uses a combination of procedures in conjunction with traditional facelift surgery techniques. This in-depth approach enables Dr. Azizzadeh to find the best way to treat loose skin, volume loss and other signs of aging in the face.

Dr. Azizzadeh sometimes recommends facial rejuvenation patients in their 40s use a regular skincare program and occasional Botox treatments to bolster their facial appearance. Comparatively, Dr. Azizzadeh may recommend dermal fillers for patients in their 50s, while patients in their 60s may need a facelift to achieve the optimal facial rejuvenation treatment results.

For people in their 40s, 50s and 60s who are considering a facial rejuvenation treatment, a consultation with Dr. Azizzadeh offers an excellent starting point. During a consultation, a patient can discuss his or her facial rejuvenation treatment goals and work with Dr. Azizzadeh to correct any underlying aging issues in the face. To find out more or to schedule a facial rejuvenation treatment consultation with Dr. Azizzadeh, please contact us today at 310-657-2203.


Does an Acupuncture Facelift Really Work?

Does an Acupuncture Facelift Really Work?

Angelina Jolie, Gwyneth Paltrow and Madonna are three of the celebrities to claim an acupuncture facelift has helped them simultaneously revitalize their skin and improve their health and well-being. However, upon closer examination, an acupuncture facelift is unlikely to deliver long-term facial rejuvenation results comparable to those associated with facelift surgery.

What Is an Acupuncture Facelift?

An acupuncture facelift is a non-surgical facial rejuvenation procedure commonly touted as a holistic alternative to Botox injections. During an acupuncture facelift, a patient receives tiny needles in different areas of the face. The needles disrupt skin tissue in the body to increase collagen and elastin production and stimulate blood flow. As such, an acupuncture facelift helps patients eliminate wrinkles, frown lines and other visible signs of aging in the face.

A cosmetic acupuncture treatment requires between 20 to 25 tiny needles to be inserted into the face. Meanwhile, an acupuncture facelift may be used to treat a variety of skin issues, including:

  • Acne
  • Dull skin
  • Puffiness
  • Rosacea (skin disease that causes facial redness or red, pus-filled bumps on the face)
  • Skin that is too tight or lax

A typical acupuncture facelift lasts between 45 minutes and one hour. Patients sometimes report no pain following a cosmetic acupuncture treatment. Conversely, some cosmetic acupuncture patients experience a stinging sensation or minor pain or discomfort after treatment.

How Does Cosmetic Acupuncture Stack Up Against a Traditional Facelift?

A recent study published in the Journal of Acupuncture Research indicated that the benefits of cosmetic acupuncture is limited. Additionally, researchers concluded more systematic research is necessary to verify the benefits of cosmetic acupuncture.

Ultimately, an acupuncture facelift offers no guarantees. For those who want to reduce visible signs of aging in the face and neck, a facelift performed by globally recognized facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Babak Azizzadeh is ideal.

Dr. Azizzadeh understands there is no quick-fix solution to revitalize the facial appearance. Therefore, Dr. Azizzadeh learns about a patient to tailor a facelift treatment program to his or her needs.

Initially, Dr. Azizzadeh requests a facelift consultation so he can perform a full patient evaluation. He reviews a patient's medical history and finds out why he or she is considering facelift surgery. Dr. Azizzadeh also uses the Aging Arc tool to visualize a patient's treatment results. The Aging Arc allows a patient to see what he or she will look like after a facelift procedure and determine if the surgery can deliver the desired facial rejuvenation results.

If Dr. Azizzadeh recommends facelift surgery for a patient, he next crafts a personalized facelift treatment plan. Dr. Azizzadeh accounts for a patient's treatment goals and develops a strategy designed to provide long-lasting results.

Finally, Dr. Azizzadeh and a patient work together to put a facelift treatment plan into action. Dr. Azizzadeh is ready to respond to a patient's concerns or questions throughout the course of a facelift treatment. Plus, Dr. Azizzadeh monitors a patient's progress after facelift surgery to ensure he or she can reap the benefits of a beautiful, natural-looking and balanced facial appearance.

Dr. Azizzadeh teaches patients about facelift surgery, too. He strives to help patients prepare for each stage of a facelift procedure, as well as establish realistic treatment expectations. That way, Dr. Azizzadeh puts a patient in the best position to achieve the optimal facelift treatment results.

For those who want to learn about facelift surgery and determine if they qualify for this facial rejuvenation procedure, Dr. Azizzadeh is happy to help. To find out more, please contact the CENTER for Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery today at 310-657-2203 to schedule a facelift consultation with Dr. Azizzadeh.


The Secrets to Fixing Summer Skin Damage

The Secrets to Fixing Summer Skin Damage

That tropical beach vacation you took over the summer was amazing, but if you didn’t properly protect your skin from the sun, you may have taken home an unwanted souvenir in the form of skin damage.

The UVA and UVB rays emitted by the sun can cause skin damage immediately in the form of a sunburn, as well as over the long-term with wrinkles, discoloration, rough texture, loss of elasticity and other signs of aging. But you don’t have to live with the effects of sun damage forever. Dr. Babak Azizzadeh offers several solutions that can treat your sun damage and restore the glow of good health to your skin.

Injectables

If the fine lines caused by cumulative sun exposure are starting to crop up on your face, especially on the forehead and in the area around the eyes, Botox can smooth out skin by preventing muscle movement in the targeted area, which can exacerbate wrinkles and creases.

Fillers can also reduce wrinkles while plumping up tired and sagging skin caused by collagen loss. Dr. Azizzadeh is an expert at the judicious use of fillers to improve your appearance. Among those offered are Juvederm, Voluma, Restylane, Radiesse, Sculptra, Belotero and Volbella. The dermal fillers Dr. Azizzadeh uses on each patient are determined by the area of the face that needs treatment and he is thorough and methodical in his approach. He calls this innovative, customized approach to injectables a “liquid facelift.”

Facelift

For older patients with more advanced signs of sun damage, Dr. Azizzadeh may recommend a surgical facelift. As with injectables, he takes a tailored approach to each patient in order to firm up the skin and tighten facial muscles while also reducing lines and wrinkles. For some patients, that can mean focusing on just the cheeks and temples, while for others it can include face, eye and neck lifts. Dr. Azizzadeh is world-renowned for his skill and prowess when it comes to facelifts, and his goal is to give you a radiant, youthful appearance that looks natural, not overly pulled and stretched. During a consultation, he will examine your face in detail and discuss your options for treatment, as well as answer any questions you may have about facelifts.

Skin Care

In between procedures, you will want to perform daily upkeep so your skin always looks its best. For that, you need a high-quality skincare regimen. Dr. Azizzadeh offers a physician-supervised program based around ZO Skin Health products. Taking into account the condition of your skin and other treatments you are having, Dr. Azizzadeh can devise a customized skincare routine that will revitalize and nurture your complexion. The ZO Skin Health line uses innovative, advanced formulations and therapeutic technologies to deliver potent and powerful results. The right skincare will restore vibrancy to your complexion while preventing the ravaging effects of sun exposure—wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, uneven tone and texture and lack of firmness. ZO Skin Health products includes cleansers, exfoliating polish, oil control pads for acne, serums, skin brighteners and crèmes that are targeted to specific skin issues—and they are only available for purchase from skin health professionals. With Dr. Azizzadeh’s expertise and these cutting-edge skincare treatments, you will have a comprehensive facial rejuvenation plan in place, ready for you to put your best face forward on your next beach vacation.


Questions to Ask Before Getting a Rhinoplasty

Questions to Ask Before Getting a Rhinoplasty

If you were undergoing an angioplasty or a knee replacement, you’d want to know everything possible about the procedure beforehand in order to be prepared for surgery. The same is true for rhinoplasty.

A nose job can dramatically change the look of your face, whether the surgery is done for cosmetic or medical reasons. Because of that—and because you’d want to avoid having another surgery to fix the first rhinoplasty if anything goes wrong—you should ideally know as much as possible about the procedure—and about the surgeon who will be performing it. A qualified facial plastic surgeon will offer to meet you during an initial consultation to talk about rhinoplasty and whether you are considered an ideal candidate for the procedure, but you should speak up, too, and ask the following questions:

About the Rhinoplasty Surgeon

  • Are they board-certified, and which institution issued the certification?
  • How many years have they been practicing?
  • Where do they perform their rhinoplasties? Do they have privileges at local hospitals or if the procedures are done at a surgical center, is it accredited?
  • How many rhinoplasties have they performed? Do they have a specialization, such as working with teens or nasal reconstruction?
  • Where did they complete their medical training?
  • Do they have before-and-after photos so you can review their work?

About the Rhinoplasty Surgery

  • What techniques will be used during the rhinoplasty? Are any of them minimally invasive?
  • How long will the rhinoplasty take?
  • What precautions need to be taken prior to the rhinoplasty?
  • What plans need to be made for after-care? When will follow-up appointments be scheduled and is there an aftercare facility the surgeon is affiliated with, if needed?
  • What are the risks involved? What happens if something goes wrong?
  • How long will the swelling last?
  • How long is the recovery period? How long until regular activity can resume?
  • Is there technology available to see what the new nose would look like prior to rhinoplasty?
  • What kind of anesthesia is used for the procedure?
  • What is the cost of the rhinoplasty (including appointment fees and other charges)?
  • What steps can be taken if the rhinoplasty doesn’t produce the desired results? Does the surgeon perform revisions?
  • What is the surgeon’s approach to patient care and facial aesthetics?
  • How can post-surgical pain be treated?

A knowledgeable facial plastic surgeon shouldn’t hesitate to answer questions about their credentials, and should be able to give you thorough answers to queries about the rhinoplasty procedure. These answers should give you confidence in their abilities and put your mind at ease about the upcoming surgery. An informed patient is an empowered patient.


History of Facial Plastic Surgery: Medieval Times – Modern Day [Infographic]

Facial plastic surgery has come a long way since medieval times. Now, let's take a look at some of the notable facial plastic surgery milestones from medieval times to present day.

 

History of Facial Plastic Surgery: Medieval Times – Modern Day

 

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Italian Surgeon Performs Nose Grafting

Italian surgeon Gaspare Tagliacozzi performed nose grafting during the 16th century. He used skin flaps of the upper arm to treat saddle nose deformities.

French Surgeon Coins the Term "Plastic" Surgery

French surgeon and anatomist Pierre Desault is credited with creating the term "plastic" surgery. In the 1790s, Desault used the Greek word "plastikos" to describe a procedure to correct facial deformities.

Anesthesia and Antisepsis Lead to Safe, Effective Facial Plastic Surgeries

Anesthesia and antisepsis were introduced in the 19th century. These practices led to facial plastic surgery safety improvements and new surgical techniques.

German Plastic Surgeon Standardizes Nose Surgery

German plastic surgeon Dr. Jacques Joseph unveiled a standard technique for rhinoplasty surgery in 1892. Joseph used a "hammer and chisel" technique to break, reshape and repair the bony portion of the nose.

State-of-the-Art Facial Plastic Surgery Technologies Become Available

Piezoelectric instruments were introduced in the 1990s. They use ultra-high frequency vibrations to cut through hard tissue. To date, piezoelectric instruments have been used during chin augmentation and nose job procedures.

Demand for Facial Plastic Surgery Increases

Approximately 15.7 million cosmetic minimally invasive procedures were performed in 2017, up 2% year over year, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Among these procedures, the top-five focused on the face.


Everything You Need to Know About Rhinoplasty in the U.S.

Everything You Need to Know About Rhinoplasty in the U.S. [Infographic]

Rhinoplasty (more commonly known as a nose job) is one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures in the United States—in 2016, it was the third most-frequently performed cosmetic surgery procedure. Here’s a breakdown of what you should know about rhinoplasty:

Everything You Need to Know About Rhinoplasty in the U.S.

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Reasons for Rhinoplasty

    • Change the appearance of the nose.
    • Fix a problem due to injury.
  • Resolve breathing problems.

Rhinoplasty in the U.S., By the Numbers

  • There were 223,018 rhinoplasties performed in 2016.
  • Of those, 75% were for female patients and 25% for males.
  • Percentage of rhinoplasty procedures, by age

Ages 13-19: 14%

Ages 20-29: 31%

Ages 30-39: 24%

Ages 40-54: 21%

Ages 55 and older: 10%

Rundown on Rhinoplasty

  • Meet with your surgeon to discuss the procedure.

(Can include a physical exam, medical history and photos of your nose.)

  • Follow pre-operative instructions from your surgeon.
  • Undergo the procedure.

(Can be done in an outpatient facility or hospital under local or general anesthesia; the surgeon will either use a closed or open technique to reshape cartilage and bone in the nose.)

Recovery Tips

  • Follow all post-operative care instructions.
  • Dressings and support splints stay in place for about a week.
  • No asprin or ibuprofen for the first couple of weeks.
  • If you smoke, stop, so recovery isn’t delayed.
  • While resting, keep your head above chest level to prevent swelling.
  • Avoid vigorous physical activity for several weeks.
  • Don’t get bandages wet.
  • Limit sodium to prevent swelling.
  • Don’t wear eyeglasses or sunglasses for 6 weeks.