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Is There Still a Stigma Around Plastic Surgery?

The stigma around plastic surgery is quickly disappearing, and perhaps it is easy to understand why.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), 15.9 million surgical and minimally invasive cosmetic procedures were performed in the United States in 2015, an increase of 2 percent year over year. Meanwhile, ASPS reports, the number of plastic surgery procedures rose 115 percent between 2000 and 2015 and may continue to increase in the foreseeable future.

Ultimately, there are many reasons why plastic surgery is becoming commonplace across the United States, including:

 

1. Plastic surgery offers a wide range of benefits.

Plastic surgery has been shown to deliver a variety of benefits, such as:

• Improved appearance: Plastic surgery enables an individual to rejuvenate the appearance of the cheeks, eyes, nose and other physical features.
• Correction of physical issues: Rhinoplasty and other plastic surgeries often allow individuals to correct physical issues, such as breathing issues.
• Increased self-confidence: With an enhanced physical appearance, an individual can enjoy increased self-confidence that may lead to unparalleled professional and personal growth.

The benefits of plastic surgery usually extend beyond an individual's appearance. As such, more people are choosing plastic surgery than ever before.

 

2. Plastic surgery can deliver safe, effective results.

Plastic surgery once was considered a major risk. However, because of advancements in safety and minimally invasive approaches, plastic surgery has helped many individuals achieve their desired treatment results.

For those who are considering plastic surgery, it is paramount to work with an experienced facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon like Dr. Babak Azizzadeh. To better understand why, let's consider Dr. Azizzadeh's approach to plastic surgery.

Dr. Azizzadeh is a world-renowned facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon who has administered many treatments. He always meets with an individual before surgery to learn about the patient. Then, Dr. Azizzadeh offers expert recommendations about how to proceed with plastic surgery.

Furthermore, Dr. Azizzadeh recognizes that no two patients are identical and tailors each plastic surgery to the needs of the individual. He even allocates the necessary time and resources to teach each patient about plastic surgery and determine whether an individual is a viable candidate for treatment. In these ways, Dr. Azizzadeh goes above and beyond the call of duty to guarantee each patient can achieve the optimal treatment results.

Finally, let's not forget about Dr. Azizzadeh's commitment to patient safety. Dr. Azizzadeh leverages advanced plastic surgery techniques to ensure treatment success. By doing so, Dr. Azizzadeh has helped dozens of patients reap the benefits of plastic surgery.

 

3. Many plastic surgery options are available.

There is no shortage of plastic surgery procedures available today. Some of the most popular treatments include:

• Brow Lift: An individual can undergo a brow lift to help reduce the appearance of a heavy, sagging brow.
• Facelift: With a facelift, an individual can address loose skin, volume loss and other visible signs of aging in the face.
• Neck Lift: A neck lift enables a person to revitalize the appearance of the skin on the neck, throat and jawline.

When it comes to plastic surgery, there is no need to worry. Dr. Azizzadeh can help an individual select the procedure that will deliver balanced and natural-looking results.

To learn more about plastic surgery, please contact the CENTER for Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery to schedule a consultation with Dr. Azizzadeh.

 

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by CENTER for Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery

Which Dermal Filler Is Right for You?

Dermal fillers are injectable treatments that help people combat the signs of aging in the face. They enable individuals to fill in fine lines and creases in the face, resulting in a more youthful and refreshed appearance.

Ultimately, individuals may use dermal fillers to:

• Address facial asymmetry
• Boost lip volume
• Enhance cheek definition
• Improve hollows in the temples
• Minimize horizontal chin lines
• Reduce bags under the eyes
• Reduce smile lines, marionette lines and vertical "smoker's lines"

 

There is no shortage of safe, effective dermal fillers that are currently available, and some of the most popular dermal fillers include:

• Belotero: With Belotero, an individual can temporarily smooth out and fill in moderate to severe nasolabial folds.
• Juvederm: The Juvederm collection of dermal fillers consists of gel that moves easily into the skin, thereby providing individuals with smooth, natural-looking skin instantly.
• Restylane: The Restylane line of dermal fillers is composed of hyaluronic acid in a clear gel form and has been shown to help individuals minimize furrows, frown lines, wrinkles and other signs of aging.
• Radiesse: Radiesse is a wrinkle filler that has been proven to help enhance skin volume and stimulate collagen production in the body.
• Sculptra: An injectable, non-surgical cosmetic facial treatment, Sculptra helps individuals minimize the appearance of facial lines and wrinkles.
• Voluma: Voluma is an injectable gel that helps reduce age-related skin volume loss.

 

Although individuals can choose from a variety of dermal fillers, it is important for an individual to select a dermal filler that will deliver the best results for their individual needs.

As such, there are several questions to consider before a person chooses a dermal filler, including:

• Are there any side effects? In many instances, mild bruising and swelling may occur after a dermal filler treatment. However, these side effects are temporary, and most patients can return to everyday activities immediately after treatment.
• How long will dermal filler treatment results last? The length of time that an individual can enjoy the benefits of a dermal filler treatment will depend on the product used, the treatment area and the patient.
• What should I look for in a dermal filler treatment provider? An individual should always select a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon who possesses the necessary skills and knowledge to properly administer a dermal filler treatment.

 

Dr. Babak Azizzadeh of the CENTER for Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery is a globally recognized facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon who has completed many dermal filler procedures over the years. In fact, Dr. Azizzadeh performs a comprehensive patient consultation before a dermal filler treatment to ensure an individual can get the best possible results.

During a dermal filler treatment consultation, Dr. Azizzadeh will look at an individual's medical history. Dermal fillers sometimes can interfere with certain allergies and neurological and skin conditions, and evaluating a patient's medical history enables Dr. Azizzadeh to help an individual select the ideal dermal filler.

Also, Dr. Azizzadeh will teach patients about all of the dermal filler treatment options at their disposal, respond to their concerns and questions and offer honest, unbiased treatment recommendations.

When it comes to dermal filler treatments, why leave anything to chance? Instead, an individual can book a consultation with Dr. Azizzadeh to learn about assorted dermal fillers and make an informed treatment decision.

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by CENTER for Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery

Cosmetic Treatments Guide for the Mother of the Bride

A wedding is an unforgettable celebration. Not only does the bride want to look her best, but so does the mother of the bride! Today, there are a variety of surgical and non-surgical cosmetic treatments to help the mother of the bride look refreshed and rejuvenated for the big day. This guide is designed to help plan how far in advance each treatment should be done. You can view it online or download it as a PDF.

Download Guide

Plastic surgery has become exceedingly popular across the United States – just consider the following plastic surgery statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS):

• Between 2000 and 2015, overall plastic surgery procedures increased 115 percent.
• 15.9 million surgical and minimally invasive plastic surgery procedures were completed in 2015, up 2 percent year to year.
• 1.7 million cosmetic surgical procedures were performed in 2015, and the top cosmetic surgical procedures were breast augmentation (279,143 procedures), liposuction (222,051 procedures) and nose reshaping (217,979 procedures).

Dr. Babak Azizzadeh of the CENTER for Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery in Beverly Hills is a leading facial plastic surgery authority. He is a double board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon. Dr. Azizzadeh also has helped many patients in the Los Angeles and Beverly Hills areas accomplish their cosmetic surgery goals and ensure that they can look their best for special occasions.

Dr. Azizzadeh performs many surgical cosmetic procedures, including:

• Facelift
• Neck lift
• Submental liposuction
• Facial reshaping
• Blepharoplasty
• Brow lift

He also offers numerous non-surgical cosmetic procedures, such as:

• Liquid facelift
• Botox
• Lip augmentation
• Under eyes
• Cheeks
• Nasolabial folds
• Skincare
• Temples
• Ultherapy
• Kybella
• Chemical peel
• Laser skin resurfacing
• Microneedling with PRP

Now, let's take a closer look at the surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures that a mother of the bride can receive before her daughter's wedding.

 

Surgical Cosmetic Procedures

When Should I Schedule a Consultation for a Surgical procedure?

Booking a consultation with Dr. Azizzadeh is the first step to learn about a surgical cosmetic procedure. Dr. Azizzadeh usually books out surgical cosmetic procedure consultations four to six weeks in advance. In addition, surgery can be in approximately four weeks after a consultation, depending on Dr. Azizzadeh’s availability.

All patients recover in their own way and recovery time truly depends on the extent of the plastic surgery procedures performed. In general, bruising and swelling may occur for up to 14 days after surgery. Within about three to four weeks of surgery, an individual should be visibly recovered and ready to attend weddings and other social events.

Dr. Azizzadeh provides the following cosmetic surgery options to patients who are preparing for an upcoming wedding:

1. Facelift

A facelift enables the mother of the bride to address many signs of aging in the face, including:

• Loose skin
• Loss of skin volume
• Loss of skin elasticity and collagen
• Facial expression lines
• Asymmetrical facial appearance

Dr. Azizzadeh is a highly sought-after facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon. He uses an Aging Arc tool to define the aging process visually based on a patient's age, ensuring an individual can understand the impact of a facelift treatment.

2. Neck lift

A neck lift allows a mother of the bride to rejuvenate the skin around the neck and throat. It is designed to smooth and trim excess skin from the neck, along with eliminate excess fat and tighten the skin. Thus, a neck lift offers an effective treatment options for those who want to enjoy a more youthful neckline.

Dr. Azizzadeh tailors each neck lift procedure to a patient's needs. His goal is to create results that improve facial harmony, while still looking very natural and elegant.

3. Submental Liposuction

Submental liposuction offers a viable treatment to address excess fat deposits around the chin and neck, such as a double chin.

During a consultation with Dr. Azizzadeh, he will explain how submental liposuction can help a mother of the bride improve her facial symmetry and create a more defined jawline.

4. Facial Reshaping

Facial reshaping allows a mother of the bride to restore her more youthful facial features. As we age our face shape changes. As an expert in facial rejuvenation, Dr. Azizzadeh refines the facial shape to look more youthful.

5. Blepharoplasty

Blepharoplasty, also referred to as an eyelid lift, enables a mother of the bride to minimize excess fat, muscle and skin around the eyes. As a result, blepharoplasty can provide an individual's eyes with a more youthful appearance.

Dr. Azizzadeh has extensive experience with both lower and upper eyelid blepharoplasty. He is Harvard-trained and possesses the skills and expertise to help a mother of the bride refresh the appearance of the eyes.

6. Brow lift

A brow lift can help a mother of the bride elevate drooping brows and reduce the appearance of forehead wrinkles. It is often combined with a blepharoplasty for best results.

Dr. Azizzadeh will provide full details about how a brow lift is completed prior to surgery. He will offer information about endoscopic brow lift surgical techniques and ensure that a mother of the bride is prepared for the procedure.

 

Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedures

For a mother of the bride who is not ready for surgical procedures, the CENTER for Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery offers a wonderful selection of non-surgical cosmetic procedures. These treatments can be completed in the office, and many offer instant and long-lasting results.

When Should I Schedule my Consultation for a Non-Surgical procedure?

A non-surgical treatment consultation can be set up with Dr. Azizzadeh approximately four to six weeks in advance. Dr. Azizzadeh offers the following non-surgical cosmetic treatments:

1. Liquid facelift

Liquid facelift provides an non-surgical alternative to a traditional facelift for the appropriate candidate. At the CENTER we customize each liquid facelift treatment to the needs of the patient. It can involve a combination of fillers (Restylane, Juvederm, Voluma, etc.) and Botox to rejuvenate the facial appearance. During a consultation with Dr. Azizzadeh a patient can express her anti-aging goals so that we can develop the best treatment plan.

Typically, a mother of the bride can receive a liquid facelift two to three months before a wedding. After a liquid facelift is performed, a one-month follow-up appointment will be completed to ensure the treatment results are exactly what the patient envisioned. Also, a "touch-up" treatment may be required at this time to add more volume to the face, if desired.

Liquid facelift results are immediate, but it takes about one to two weeks for bruising and swelling to subside after treatment. The results of a liquid facelift usually last for six to 18 months, depending on the dermal filler that is used.

2. Botox

Botox is the world's most popular non-invasive cosmetic procedure, according to ASPS. It serves as an injectable prescription that smooths fine lines, wrinkles and furrows that form due to constant muscle movements.

A Botox injection is generally pain-free, and a mother of the bride will see the results of Botox within two weeks of treatment. Botox results will last for roughly three to four months. This means a mother of the bride likely won't need to return for additional Botox treatments before her daughter's wedding.

3. Lip augmentation

Lip augmentations utilize filler to enhance the size and shape of the lips. Today, there are several different fillers that can be used in the lips including Volbella and Juvederm. Dr. Azizzadeh will choose which filler to use based on how the patient wants their lips to look.

Usually, lip augmentation will need to be performed two to three months prior to a wedding. Lip augmentation delivers immediate results that will last six to 12 months, depending on the filler product that is used.

4. Under eyes

A Restylane treatment for under eye bags or under eye circles is very popular among mothers of the bride. The filler is injected through a blunt-tip cannula to reduce bruising and swelling and placed under the eyes and in the upper cheek area to restore lost volume that is causing hollows, lines and dark shadows.

A mother of the bride should complete an under eyes treatment two to three months before a wedding. The treatment results are immediate and will last nine to 12 months.

5. Cheeks

Dermal fillers can be used to replenish lost volume in the cheeks and minimize the appearance of sunken cheeks. As a result, dermal fillers create a much more youthful facial appearance by lifting and filling the mid-face. There are several different filler products that can be used in the cheeks including Voluma and Juvederm. During a consultation, Dr. Azizzadeh will determine which filler treatment, or combination of fillers, will be best for the patient.

Like many dermal filler treatments, cheek enhancement treatments should be completed two to three months before a wedding. The results of the treatments are instant and may last for six to 12 months.

6. Nasolabial folds

With dermal fillers, a mother of the bride can instantly improve the appearance of sunken and deep nasolabial folds. For a mother of the bride, a dermal filler treatment to address nasolabial folds should be performed two to three months prior to a wedding. The treatment results may last for up to one year.

7. Temples

The temples may start to appear bony and depressed with age as we lose volume in this area. Fortunately, filler injections to the temples can restore volume to create a fuller, more youthful facial shape.

A temples treatment should be scheduled two to three months prior to a wedding. After the procedure is completed, the treatment results may last for up to 12 months.

8. Ultherapy

Ultherapy uses ultrasound technology to tighten and lift the skin. It also stimulates collagen growth and tightens loose skin at the same time.

A patient will need multiple Ultherapy treatments to see best results, so the treatment plan should be started six to nine months before a wedding. Moreover, the treatment provides long-lasting results, as it helps the body regenerate collagen on its own.

9. Kybella

Kybella delivers an unprecedented anti-aging treatment because it enables an individual to eliminate fat under the chin. The initial results of Kybella will appear two to four months after treatment. Most patients require two to four Kybella treatments to remove all of unwanted the submental fat under the chin. For a mother of the bride, it is recommended to receive the treatment six to nine months prior to a wedding so that the results are visible.

Dr. Azizzadeh was one of the first facial plastic surgeons to offer Kybella treatments and has had great success with the product for his patients.

10. Chemical peel

A chemical peel uses a medical-grade skin care solution to smooth and improve the skin. It prompts deep exfoliation to remove damaged skin layers, making it a great option to treat blemishes, wrinkles and uneven skin pigmentation.

The CENTER provides two types of chemical peels:

• 3-Step Peel: Serves as an aggressive treatment option that will help the skin glow. A mother of the bride will want to receive this treatment at least five to six weeks before a wedding for optimal results.
• ZO Ossential Stimulator Peel: Offers a mild chemical peel that will give the skin a beautiful glow. It is recommended that a ZO ossential stimulator peel treatment be completed a couple times per month for the best results, and the week before the wedding to ensure the skin is glowing.

Dr. Azizzadeh will help a mother of the bride evaluate both chemical peel options and determine which treatment will work best based on a patient's needs.

11. Laser skin resurfacing

Laser skin resurfacing uses a laser to pinpoint hundreds of spots on each inch of skin, eliminating damaged skin and allowing the underlying skin to regrow.

Laser skin resurfacing can be performed in the office or in the OR as a complementary procedure to facial rejuvenation surgery. There are several different laser treatments available and the recovery time will depend on the strength of the treatment. During a consultation with Dr. Azizzadeh, he will recommend which type of laser treatment will best correct the patient’s skin concerns.

12. Microneedling with PRP

Microneedling with Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) has been shown to improve skin texture and minimize the appearance of pores. It generates new collagen to help an individual look more refreshed and youthful.

It takes up to two months for microneedling with PRP to stimulate the body's natural cell regeneration. A mother of the bride who is interested in microneedling with PRP should schedule a treatment at least three to four months prior to her daughter's wedding.

13. Skincare

Good skincare products are the foundation of youthful looking skin. At the CENTER, we offer the ZO Skin Health by Dr. Zein Obagi product line. During a consultation with one of our skin care experts at the CENTER, we will evaluate the patient’s skin and determine which ZO product regimen will restore the skin to a more youthful state. Our skincare products can minimize pores, lighten brown spots, reduce the appearance of dark under eye circles, and so much more.

A mother of the bride should start a Zo Skin Health skin care routine at least six months prior to the wedding so that she can experience the benefits and have radiant skin.

Take advantage of the surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures available at the CENTER for Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery. Please contact us today to schedule a consultation.

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by CENTER for Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery

Selfie Nation: How Does Social Media Influence Plastic Surgery?

Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat and other social networks play key roles in most Americans’ daily routines, which is reflected in recent data.

According to Pew Research Center, nearly 70 percent of Americans currently use social media. Pew Research Center also indicated Millennials, i.e. individuals born after 1980, use social networks at higher levels than all other demographic groups – a trend that appears likely to continue in the foreseeable future.

Social media empowers Millennials to share information, engage with news content and entertain themselves like never before. However, social media may be driving an increase in cosmetic procedures among Millennials as well.

Analyzing the Link Between Social Media and Plastic Surgery

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) “2015 Plastic Surgery Statistics Report” provided insights into the following cosmetic plastic surgery demographic trends:

• 64,000 surgical procedures were performed on individuals between the ages of 13 and 19 years old, up 1 percent year over year.
• 249,000 surgical procedures were performed on individuals between the ages of 20 and 29 years old, a 1 percent increase from 2014.
• 365,000 surgical procedures were performed on individuals between the ages of 30 and 39 years old, a 2 percent year-over-year increase.

There is a strong correlation between social media and the way people view themselves, regardless of age. Today, social media has far-flung effects on the way a person is viewed by others, as well as his or her self-confidence. It may even lead a person to pursue plastic surgery more adamantly than he or she would in the past.

Social media has brought about an unprecedented wave of digital "self-love" reflected in selfies and other social images. People can use social apps to filter their personal images so they can create one-of-a-kind self-images that are instantly shareable online. Individuals can also take advantage of various social apps to dictate how they are perceived by others – for better or worse.

For example, consider what may happen if a person has a bad hair day at work or school. In the past, a bad hair day might have been a minor problem. Because at the end of a bad hair day, an individual could forget about the incident and move forward from it.

In a social media-driven world, however, one person's bad hair day can immediately be shared with millions of people worldwide. Social media makes it simple for people to connect with one another from any device, at any location and at any time. Thus, if a person suffers a bad hair day at work or school, anyone can snap a photo on a smartphone or tablet and share it via social media. And once this image is live on the internet, it likely will stay there forever.

Conversely, social media sometimes leads people to take additional steps to ensure that they look their best at all times. Yet allocating significant time and energy to apply makeup to cover up even minor facial wrinkles and blemishes may prove to be difficult. Plus, the costs associated with doing so may add up quickly.

Social media has transformed the way that people interact with one another and the world around them, along with changed the way that people perceive cosmetic surgery. Whereas plastic surgery was previously viewed by some people in a negative light, it now presents a great option for a person to look his or her best on social media.

Plastic surgery often helps people correct facial wrinkles and other blemishes and prevent them from recurring. It also makes it tough for people to spot facial imperfections and share them with others online.

At the same time, cosmetic surgery can help a person bolster his or her self-confidence. For instance, a person who feels good about his or her appearance may be more likely than ever before to share selfies on Instagram, Facebook and other social networks. As the social likes and shares accumulate, this individual may feel more confident in his or her appearance than ever before.

Celebrities Increasingly Embrace Plastic Surgery

The stigma once associated with plastic surgery has disappeared, thanks in large part to celebrities who are upfront and honest about their recent decisions to undergo cosmetic procedures. Some of the celebrities who have used plastic surgery to enhance their appearance include:

• Kaley Cuoco: Actress Kaley Cuoco may be best-known for her role as Penny on the hit TV comedy "The Big Bang Theory." Meanwhile, Cuoco told Redbook that a decision to get breast implants earlier in her acting career proved to be one of "the best" decisions she has ever made.
• Lisa Kudrow: "Friends" actress Lisa Kudrow received a nose job when she was a teenager, according to The Saturday Evening Post. The procedure was "life-altering," Kudrow stated, as it helped her improve her facial appearance.
• Betty White: "Golden Girls" star Betty White underwent an eyelid rejuvenation procedure in 1976, she told People. White said she "scolded herself" when she first received the procedure, but she's now glad that she received the surgery.
• Kylie Jenner: TV personality and model Kylie Jenner originally received lip fillers in 2015. She also started a vlog in 2018 detailing her "lip filler journey."
• Christine Brinkley: Actress Christine Brinkley told People in 2017 that she underwent ultherapy, which uses ultrasound technology to lift and tighten the skin. With ultherapy, Brinkley has lifted her skin and reduced visible signs of aging on her neck.
• Robin Wright: Actress Robin Wright told The Telegraph in 2014 that she receives Botox treatments twice a year. Botox treats fine lines, wrinkles and furrows caused by excess muscle movements in the face.
• Jillian Michaels: Fitness trainer and TV personality Jillian Michaels underwent rhinoplasty surgery at age 16. Michaels said the procedure helped reshape her nose and boost her self-confidence.
• Kelly Ripa: TV personality Kelly Ripa told Elle in 2013 that she receives Botox treatments on her eyelid skin approximately every seven months.

As the aforementioned examples show, celebrities of all ages are sometimes willing to undergo plastic surgery to bolster their appearance. But celebrities are just one of several groups of individuals who may consider plastic surgery in the hopes of looking their best both now and in the future. In fact, cosmetic surgery today represents a viable option for many individuals, including Millennials.

What Is the Link Between Millennials, Social Media and Plastic Surgery?

Social networks are exceedingly popular and show no signs of slowing down anytime soon. Moreover, the number of annual cosmetic procedures continues to rise among the Millennial population.

The Millennial generation is leading a “selfie” revolution – just consider some of the recent selfie statistics compiled by Frames Direct:

• On average, a Millennial will take up to 25,700 selfies during their lifetime.
• 55 percent of Millennials share selfies on social media.
• The average Millennial spends at least one hour per week posting selfies on social networks.
• To date, Instagram has more than 250 million #selfie posts, and this figure continues to increase daily.

Millennials highlight the link between social media and plastic surgery. With selfies and other social media posts, Millennials share personal information with a global audience. And going forward, Millennials may be one of the biggest groups to choose plastic surgery in the hopes of enhancing their facial appearance for social media.

Ultimately, many Millennials may consider plastic surgery to improve their appearance in selfies and other social media images. With an informed approach to plastic surgery, Millennials can understand the short- and long-term ramifications of a cosmetic procedure and make the right treatment decision based on their personal needs.

Plastic Surgery: Here’s What Millennials Need to Know

Many cosmetic procedures are available, and each treatment may impact an individual’s appearance in a variety of ways.

Some of the leading plastic surgeries include:

• Rhinoplasty: Commonly referred to as a “nose job” or “nose surgery,” rhinoplasty enables an individual to improve facial symmetry. It may be used to correct structural defects in the nose too.
• Submental Liposuction: Liposuction under the chin eliminates the appearance of a “double chin” and creates a thinner facial profile.
• Brow Lift: A brow lift enables an individual to raise drooping eyebrows and reduce the appearance of deep furrows and a heavy, sagging brow.
• Eyelid Lift: Thanks to an eyelid lift, an individual can remove bags that form under the eyelids, correct drooping lower eyelids and minimize excess fat deposits in the eyelids.

Also, many non-surgical cosmetic procedures are available, and some of the leading non-surgical cosmetic treatments include:

• Botox: Perhaps the most popular non-invasive cosmetic procedure, Botox helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the forehead and around the eyes.
• Facial Fillers: With facial fillers, an individual can use injectable medications to fill in fine lines and creases throughout the face to create more cheek contour, erase under eye bags, or enhance the size and shape of the lips.
• Laser Skin Resurfacing: DOT Deka laser skin resurfacing treatments can help an individual improve the skin’s tone, texture and pigmentation.

The CENTER for Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery wants to teach Millennials about cosmetic surgery, how it works and its benefits.

Now, let’s take a look at three questions that Millennials should consider about plastic surgery.

How will plastic surgery impact my appearance?

It is important for an individual to allocate the necessary time and resources to learn about surgical and minimally invasive cosmetic procedures before undergoing treatment. This will enable a person to understand a procedure’s impact on the facial appearance. Furthermore, it is very important to have a very honest conversation with the facial plastic surgeon to make sure both parties have the same expectations for the results of the surgery.

What should I expect after a cosmetic procedure?

The goals and results of a cosmetic procedure will vary depending on the individual. Therefore, it is paramount for a person to establish realistic cosmetic treatment expectations.

Dr. Babak Azizzadeh of the CENTER for Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery is a globally recognized facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon who recognizes the immediate and long-term impact of a cosmetic procedure. He will meet with a patient to learn about the individual’s cosmetic treatment goals and ensure this person can get the best results possible.

Is a cosmetic procedure right for me?

Plastic surgery represents a major decision, regardless of a person’s age. As such, a person should learn as much as possible about plastic surgery prior to treatment.

When it comes to facial plastic surgery, working with an expert facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon like Dr. Azizzadeh is a must. This surgeon will be able to describe a cosmetic procedure in detail and respond to a patient’s concerns and questions.

A Final Word on Cosmetic Surgery for Millennials

Millennials are the largest living generation in the United States. They are tech-savvy individuals who understand the ins and outs of social media and are unafraid to share personal images across social networks.

At the same time, many Millennials have shown a willingness to undergo cosmetic procedures over the past few years. As the selfie revolution continues, Millennials may consider cosmetic treatments to enhance their facial appearance.

A cosmetic procedure rarely, if ever, represents a “quick-fix” solution to transform an individual’s appearance. Although some cosmetic procedures provide fast results, various treatments may require several weeks or months before the full results become apparent.

For those who are considering cosmetic surgery, meeting with a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon like Dr. Azizzadeh can provide a valuable learning experience. This consultation will enable an individual to learn about the short- and long-term effects of a cosmetic procedure and make an informed treatment decision.

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by CENTER for Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery

Ryder's Story

Ryder, a young boy from the Philippines recently underwent a life-altering surgery with facial nerve expert Dr. Babak Azizzadeh to help restore facial movement and to give him a chance at the radiant smile he deserves. In his first ten years, Ryder has already been through more than most people can imagine in a lifetime. He was born with a rare congenital disorder in which the bones of his skull didn’t fuse together properly resulting in a large sack-like growth on his face. After being abandoned when he was 5 years old, he was taken in by a ministry who did everything that they could to help. They arranged for surgeons in Manila to operate and remove his facial mass, however, the surgery came with some unfortunate side effects. Ryder was left with partial blindness, hearing issues, and facial paralysis.

Just a few years later at the age of 9, Ryder was adopted by a family from the United States who made it their mission to find specialists who could work to improve his paralysis. His new adoptive parents found Dr. Azizzadeh and the Facial Paralysis Institute and scheduled a consultation to find out if Ryder would be a good candidate for treatment. After a thorough evaluation, Dr. Azizzadeh determined that Ryder would benefit from a cross face nerve graft. In this two-stage procedure, Dr. Azizzadeh is able to utilize the facial nerve from the unaffected side of the face to create spontaneous movement on the paralyzed side. During the first stage of the procedure, Dr. Azizzadeh harvests the sural nerve from the ankle and attaches it to the normal facial nerve. This nerve will slowly grow across Ryder's face throughout the months following the first procedure. Dr. Azizzadeh will follow up with Ryder in the months after the first stage operation, and when the nerve has reached the ideal length, he can have the second stage surgery. During stage 2, Dr. Azizzadeh will harvest the gracilis muscle from Ryder's thigh and attach it to the nerve graft that has grown across Ryder's face. The final result will allow Ryder to smile and move both sides of his face simultaneously. Ryder has already successfully undergone the first stage of the cross face nerve graft and is expected to have the second stage procedure in the next six to twelve months. The Facial Paralysis Institute feels so fortunate to have the opportunity to help Ryder and his new family and we are excited to follow his progress.

Learn more about Ryder’s story- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L3S5FIE_MS4 

Meet the surgeon:

Facial nerve expert Dr. Babak Azizzadeh helps patients from all over the globe who have varying degrees of facial paralysis. After his intense and extensive training at Harvard Medical School, Dr. Azizzadeh started the Facial Paralysis Foundation which offers information and support to those affected by facial paralysis. He is trained in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery as well as head and neck surgery, which give him a unique insight into facial nerve function and facial aesthetics. Dr. Azizzadeh also underwent extensive training for microsurgical facial reconstruction, which is often required to treat patients who were born with facial paralysis. He has become recognized as a leader in the field of facial nerve paralysis and has been featured in many media outlets including appearing on the Oprah Winfrey Show. Dr. Azizzadeh has authored five best-selling books and has most recently been bestowed the honor of hosting the International Facial Nerve Conference in 2017.

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by CENTER for Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery

Restylane Defyne and Refyne: What You Need to Know

Restylane® is a popular dermal filler treatment that has been used in more than 30 million cosmetic procedures. It involves the use of hyaluronic acid fillers to smooth away facial wrinkles and folds. Restylane treatments have been shown to help an individual enhance his or her lips, boost cheek volume, and much more.

Two new Restylane products could make a world of difference for men and women across the globe – Restylane Defyne and Restylane Refyne. Now, let's take a closer look at both of these dermal filler treatments.

Restylane Defyne

Restylane Defyne is a hyaluronic acid dermal filler designed to help a person minimize the appearance of deep laugh lines, such as nasolabial folds and marionette lines.

Defyne uses XpresHAn technology™ and consists of flexible hyaluronic acid gels. Like other Restylane treatments, Defyne allows a person to look more youthful.

 

Restylane Refyne

Restylane Refyne serves as a specially formulated hyaluronic acid dermal filler. A Refyne treatment involves the use of a mid-to-deep injection and allows a person to address moderate to severe deep facial wrinkles and folds and is a great treatment for a lip augmentation.

Refyne consists of XpresHAn technology, which provides patients with natural-looking outcomes.

 

What do patients think about Defyne and Refyne?

A clinical study of 63 Defyne and Refyne patients one month after treatment provided the following results:

• 97 percent of respondents indicated that they were satisfied with their treatment results.
• 97 percent noted that they would do a Defyne or Refyne treatment again.
• 95 percent said they would recommend Defyne or Refyne to a friend.

Both Defyne and Refyne provide safe, effective cosmetic treatments that patients love.

Ultimately, meeting with an experienced inejctor, like Dr. Babak Azizzadeh, is important. With support from Dr. Azizzadeh, an individual can learn about the benefits of Defyne, Refyne and other Restylane treatments.

During a consultation with Dr. Azizzadeh or Ashely, a patient can find out which product will help them achieve their unique aesthetic goals. At this time, Dr. Azizzadeh will ask questions to learn about your cosmetic concerns, as well as evaluate your overall facial anatomy to determine which filler treatment is best.

The dermal filler treatment consultation process is comprehensive. It enables a person to learn about a large assortment of dermal filler treatments, along with their impact on a person's facial appearance. Therefore, a facial filler consultation allows a person to review his or her dermal filler treatment options, receive recommendations from one of our expert injectors and plan accordingly.

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by CENTER for Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery

New Year, New You – Steps to a Better Version of You in 2017

2017 is in full swing, and there is no time like the present to establish personal and professional goals for the new year. With the right approach to 2017, an individual can streamline the process of making meaningful improvements.

Here are three steps that people can use to transform their lives in 2017.

Find Ways to Boost Your Self-Confidence

The new year represents a time of change. But change can be overwhelming, particularly for those who want to get the most out of 2017.

Building self-confidence may make it simple for an individual to set and accomplish goals in 2017. With the drive to push forward, an individual will be better equipped than others to stay the course and become the person that he or she wants to be.

Facial plastic surgery often provides a valuable option for those who want to bolster their self-confidence, and for good reason. Rhinoplasty, a facelift, and other facial plastic surgery treatments have been shown to be safe and effective. Plus, with an improved facial appearance, an individual will be able to wake up feeling good about himself or herself and ready to take on new challenges day after day.

 

Consider Your Mental Health

It can be difficult to remain focused on short- and long-term goals if an individual fails to prioritize his or her mental health. But those who invest in themselves may be able to stay positive in even the most challenging times.

There is no need to let anxiety get in the way in 2017. Instead, many stress-relieving activities are available to ensure that a person can stay focused on the positives throughout the year.

For example, spending even an hour a day exercising can make a world of difference for individuals. Light or strenuous exercise may enable a person to shed weight, build muscle and improve his or her physical and mental well-being.

Comparatively, non-surgical facial treatments can help a person enhance his or her facial appearance in just hours. Non-surgical facial procedures like Botox, laser skin resurfacing and Kybella are exceedingly popular across the United States and may enable an individual to minimize anxiety associated with his or her facial appearance.

 

Step Outside Your Comfort Zone

When it comes to self-improvement, an individual likely will need to step outside of his or her comfort zone to get the best results possible.

Although it may seem challenging to try something new, there is no need for an individual to act alone. Conversely, family members and friends are available to provide support.

It also is important to remember that an individual can take an informed, proactive approach to implement meaningful changes in 2017. With this type of approach, a person will be able to minimize risk and improve his or her chances of obtaining meaningful results.

For instance, an individual who considers a surgical or non-surgical facial procedure should always consult with an experienced facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon. Each plastic surgeon is different and meeting with a best-in-class facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, such as Dr. Babak Azizzadeh ensures that an individual can take the right steps to improve his or her facial appearance.

Become a better version of yourself – use the aforementioned steps, and an individual can prioritize self-improvement in 2017.

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by CENTER for Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery

Turning Back the Clock in 2017: A New Year's Resolution Guide to a More Radiant You

Believe it or not, January 2017 has come and gone and for those who want to look great this year, facial plastic surgery offers a great New Year's resolution, as it enables an individual to bolster his or her facial symmetry, improve the facial appearance and more.

Plastic surgery has generated interest from many individuals across the United States. In fact, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) reports the number of facial plastic surgery procedures increased 115 percent between 2000 and 2015. The ASPS also points out that 15.9 million surgical and minimally invasive cosmetic procedures were completed in 2015, and this figure may continue to rise in the foreseeable future.

Ultimately, facial plastic surgery offers a number of benefits, including:

• Increased Self-Confidence: Facial plastic surgery makes it easy for an individual to enhance his or her facial appearance, resulting in increased self-confidence.
• Reduced Anxiety: For those who are self-conscious about their facial appearance, facial plastic surgery can deliver immediate and long-lasting results and lead to reduced anxiety.
• Improved Physical Health: Facial plastic surgery procedures are available to help an individual treat physical health issues. For example, rhinoplasty, aka "nose surgery," may enable an individual to correct a deviated septum or breathing issue and restore the nasal function.

Many facial plastic surgery options are available, and some of the most popular facial plastic surgery procedures include:

• Rhinoplasty: Rhinoplasty allows an individual to reshape the nose and improve the facial aesthetic.
• Facelift: With a facelift, an individual can reduce the appearance of facial expression lines, skin volume loss and other signs of aging in the face.
• Blepharoplasty: Also referred to as "eyelid surgery," blepharoplasty ensures that an individual can remove excess fat, muscle, and skin around the eyes, which gives the eyes a more youthful appearance.

Let's not forget about the variety of non-surgical facial treatments available to individuals throughout the U.S., either. Numerous non-surgical facial procedures deliver proven results, and some of the most popular non-surgical facial treatments include:

• Botox: Botox provides an injectable treatment that helps individuals minimize the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and furrows that occur due to muscle movements in the face.
• Ultherapy: With ultherapy, an individual can reap the benefits of an ultrasound technology treatment that lifts and tightens the skin.
• Laser Skin Resurfacing: Laser skin resurfacing enables a person to remove damaged skin and allow the underlying skin to regrow, which gives the skin a healthy, radiant appearance.

Clearly, there are many surgical and non-surgical facial plastic procedures to choose from in 2017. On the other hand, it is important to note that not all facial plastic surgeons are created equal.

When it comes to facial plastic surgery, there is no need to leave anything to chance. Instead, work with Dr. Babak Azizzadeh, a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon who possesses comprehensive experience and expertise. By doing so, an individual can receive extensive support before, during and after a facial plastic treatment. Plus, you will be able to ask questions about a procedure and receive responses at any time.

Make 2017 a year to remember – select a surgical or non-surgical facial plastic procedure to transform your facial appearance.

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by CENTER for Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery