See the CRAVE SF website for additional information!
Friday, October 2, 2009
Monday, September 7, 2009
Stretch marks - Unlikely to be caused by surgery, but expected after pregnancy
Karen M. Horton, MD answers:
Will Breast Implants and Liposculpture cause stretch marks after pregnancy?
I am 32 and I am planning to have a breast augmentation (something discreet) and a liposculpture within the next two weeks, but also I would like to get pregnant of my second baby in about 10 months. I did not get any stretch marks at all from my first pregnancy, but I am really concerned that the breast implants or the Lipo will cause them when I get pregnant again. Any opinions?
Brenda, Chicago
Stretch marks ("striae") are a common occurrence after rapid weight gain or stretching of the skin, as in puberty or pregnancy.
Striae are caused by a small tear in the dermis (lower layer of the skin) th
at heals by filling itself in with scar tissue. The epidermis (top layer of the skin) remains intact, but is often stretched out, enabling the scar tissue below to be visible as a shiny, irregular and sometimes depressed area of skin.
Unfortunately, stretch marks are permanent. Although they tend to fade with time, like all scars, they are permanent, like scars.
Despite many claims, topical creams and other therapies to the skin cannot eliminate or remove stretch marks. The only way to permanently remove stretch marks is to surgically excise them, for instance, in a tummy tuck. Many moms are proud of their stretch marks, as they remind them of their pregnancies and their beloved little ones!
A breast augmentation and liposuction would be very unlikely to create stretch marks, so long as the breast implants were not so large that they caused massive stretching and tearing of the dermis of the breast skin. By a "discrete" breast augmentation, I assume you are aiming for a natural, subtle result. This would be highly unlikely to create any striae.
You are lucky that you did not have stretch marks following your first pregnancy. This may be because of your age and genetics. Hopefully, you will continue to enjoy a body free of stretch marks. However, changes occur with each and every pregnancy, and you may discover some new striae after your next pregnancy.
Best of luck, and congratulations on your family!
Designing scars for tummy tucks - You have input!
Karen M. Horton, MD answers: Different location and direction of Tummy Tuck incisions?
Why are some Tummy Tuck incisions straight across and some in a dramatic "u"? Is there an advantage to the "u"?
Aromagal Vancouver BC
A tummy tuck ("abdominoplasty") requires creation of a longish scar across the lower abdomen, and usually also around the belly button.
During a tummy tuck, excess skin and fat is removed from the lower belly, and the muscles of the abdominal wall are brought together by a technique called "rectus fascial plication".
Adbominoplasty is really a three-dimensional operation, serving to corset your midline from the inside, and tuck excess skin and fat on the outside! It is an incredible procedure for some women who are good candidates.
The location of the incision can be designed to fit within your normal swimsuit or undergarment lines.
Some women wear very low-cut bathing suits or jeans, and wish their scar to be as low and horizontal as possible.
However, other women may wear a more high-cut undergarment or bikini bottom, and may wish the scar to lie slightly higher. Most women know which cut or style of bottom flatters their figure most, and tend to stick to that style.
You can bring your undergarment with you to a consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon and show your Plastic Surgeon where the ideal location for the scar to lie, if possible.
Remember, however, that styles and fashions can change. Scars are permanent, but fade dramatically with time.
If you are seriously considering a tummy tuck, stay involved with the planning process and don't be shy about asking your Plastic Surgeon to tailor the procedure so that it suits your body, fashions and lifestyle the very best!
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Medical Spas - A Word of Caution to Doctors
The following is an excerpt from a recent Medical Board of California publication about the business of Medicine:
There is a tendency for the public, and some in the profession, to view laser treatments, Botox and cosmetic filler injections as cosmetic rather than medical treatments. The use of prescriptive drugs and devices, however, is the practice of medicine, and the same laws and regulations apply to these types of treatments as those driven by medical necessity.
There has been an explosion of "cosmetic medicine" over the past few years, and many Physicians are being approached to "increase their bottom line" by entering into this lucrative field.
There is a tendency for the public, and some in the profession, to view laser treatments, Botox and cosmetic filler injections as cosmetic rather than medical treatments. The use of prescriptive drugs and devices, however, is the practice of medicine, and the same laws and regulations apply to these types of treatments as those driven by medical necessity.
Cosmetic procedures are the practice of medicine, and Physicians are responsible for their patients, regardless of who performs the treatments. There is no legal scheme that allows Physicians to collect a fee for signing their name to an agreement to lend their license to an entity to practice Medicine.
Legally, the "clients" of the spa or salon are patients - the Physician's patients, and that arrangement comes with all of the responsibility and liability that goes with any other Doctor-patient relationship.
See the entire Medical Board of California article here: http://www.mbc.ca.gov/licensee/medical_spas-business.pdf
Monday, July 20, 2009
Tips for finding a good Plastic Surgeon
From the LA Times, July 19, 2009:
If you're considering any type of cosmetic procedure, consumer watchdogs and medical organizations recommend you check up on your doctor first.
What's the best way to find a qualified surgeon?
What's the best way to find a qualified surgeon?
According to Dr. Jean Loftus, author of "The Smart Woman's Guide to Plastic Surgery," the biggest problem with finding a qualified surgeon "is that as insurance reimbursements have gone down, the number of unqualified physicians who call themselves plastic surgeons has increased, so finding a plastic surgeon who's qualified is hard sometimes." Every doctor "is board certified in something," she added, "even if all they've done is a year internship after medical school.
"Here's the bottom line. . . . If you want to know that your plastic surgeon is properly certified, the meaningful question to ask is, 'Are you certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery?' " [or the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada? (these Boards are equivalent and are both recognized by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons)].
The ABPS (abplsurg.org) recommends you go to plasticsurgery.org or surgery.org (the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery). The status of a physician's license can be found at www.medbd.ca.gov, California's medical licensing board website. American Board of Plastic Surgery?
"Here's the bottom line. . . . If you want to know that your plastic surgeon is properly certified, the meaningful question to ask is, 'Are you certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery?' " [or the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada? (these Boards are equivalent and are both recognized by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons)].
The ABPS (abplsurg.org) recommends you go to plasticsurgery.org or surgery.org (the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery). The status of a physician's license can be found at www.medbd.ca.gov, California's medical licensing board website. American Board of Plastic Surgery?
Let's say the doctor is certified by a Board of Plastic Surgery. How do you know that doctor will produce good results?
Said Loftus, "Anybody who's interested in plastic surgery should see somebody who perhaps performed surgery on somebody else they know who got good results and was happy with their care," Loftus said. In addition, "they should ask the doctor to speak to a patient who's been unhappy with their results. Any doctor will give potential patients the names of happy customers, but how does that doctor handle patients that are unhappy?"
How many doctors should a potential patient consult?
Loftus recommends patients interview two or three.
What about all these advertisements for $3,000 breast augmentations and other procedures that seem to be priced ridiculously low? Is there a way for patients to determine if corners are being cut when prices are so substantially reduced?
"It's tough," Loftus said. "On the one hand, you get what you pay for. On the other, you've got a lot of plastic surgeons seeing their revenues drop with reduced numbers of patients. Ask questions. Does the price include anesthesia fees and operating room fees? Both can add substantially to the cost of the procedure. In some cases they might be advertising just the surgeon's fee and leaving out the other fees."
-- Susan Carpenter
Said Loftus, "Anybody who's interested in plastic surgery should see somebody who perhaps performed surgery on somebody else they know who got good results and was happy with their care," Loftus said. In addition, "they should ask the doctor to speak to a patient who's been unhappy with their results. Any doctor will give potential patients the names of happy customers, but how does that doctor handle patients that are unhappy?"
How many doctors should a potential patient consult?
Loftus recommends patients interview two or three.
What about all these advertisements for $3,000 breast augmentations and other procedures that seem to be priced ridiculously low? Is there a way for patients to determine if corners are being cut when prices are so substantially reduced?
"It's tough," Loftus said. "On the one hand, you get what you pay for. On the other, you've got a lot of plastic surgeons seeing their revenues drop with reduced numbers of patients. Ask questions. Does the price include anesthesia fees and operating room fees? Both can add substantially to the cost of the procedure. In some cases they might be advertising just the surgeon's fee and leaving out the other fees."
-- Susan Carpenter
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Breast Augmentation - Am I a Good Candidate?
WHAT IS BREAST AUGMENTATION?
Breast augmentation is the insertion of implants to increase the size of the breasts, or to replace breast volume lost with childbearing, breastfeeding or significant weight loss.
Most women desiring implants find that their breasts are proportionally smaller than the rest of their bodies.
Breast augmentation can help restore a woman’s sense of proportion and in many women can improve self-esteem and confidence.
Both saline and silicone breast implants are used for women undergoing breast augmentation for the first time.
To read more about the science and safety of all implants, visit the BreastImplantAnswers.com website.
Breast augmentation is the insertion of implants to increase the size of the breasts, or to replace breast volume lost with childbearing, breastfeeding or significant weight loss.
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BEFORE AUGMENTATION | AFTER AUGMENTATION |
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Most women desiring implants find that their breasts are proportionally smaller than the rest of their bodies.
Breast augmentation can help restore a woman’s sense of proportion and in many women can improve self-esteem and confidence.
Both saline and silicone breast implants are used for women undergoing breast augmentation for the first time.
To read more about the science and safety of all implants, visit the BreastImplantAnswers.com website.
Breast augmentation is the second most common cosmetic operation in the U.S., second only to liposuction. Patient satisfaction tends to be very high. One study showed an overall satisfaction rate of 97%.
AM I A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR BREAST AUGMENTATION?
Any healthy woman who feels that her self-esteem or body image would be improved with larger breasts is a potential candidate for breast augmentation.
The most common types of patients who undergo breast augmentation are women who have lost breast volume after childbearing, and women who have always had small breasts in relation to the rest of their body.
Before any cosmetic surgery, you should be in good health, at a stable weight, with a regular exercise program and good nutrition without any major dietary restrictions.
You should also have the support (emotional and physical) support of your family or friends during your recovery so that you will have assistance with activities of daily living, and tasks requiring heavy lifting for 1-2 weeks after surgery.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Visit our website, Women's Plastic Surgery for details!
Saturday, July 11, 2009
My supermodel breast cancer reconstruction patient, Esther, is back!
Congratulations to my fabulous patient Esther, a self-made internet supermodel, who has survived breast cancer, has a successful breast reconstruction and is getting back to modeling!
Gracing the covers of magazines, appearing in television shows and movies, modeling for some of the largest fashion names and running her extremely successful website, www.esther.com, is by all standards impressive, yet there is so much more to this woman.
Please visit her website to support her return to the spotlight, sign up for her emails and share your stories of strength and survival with her!
She will eventually share her story about cancer and reconstruction with the world. Stay tuned for her journey in her own words.
Gracing the covers of magazines, appearing in television shows and movies, modeling for some of the largest fashion names and running her extremely successful website, www.esther.com, is by all standards impressive, yet there is so much more to this woman.
Please visit her website to support her return to the spotlight, sign up for her emails and share your stories of strength and survival with her!
She will eventually share her story about cancer and reconstruction with the world. Stay tuned for her journey in her own words.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
New post-surgical clothing line from my breast cancer reconstruction patient!
I am so proud of my patient Kathy Adams who has founded this fabulous clothing company designed for women facing breast cancer! Please read on and check out the links.
THE PROBLEM: “After my breast cancer surgery they sent me home with all these drains and tubes, I didn’t know how to manage them”
“There are no other products on the market that provide this solution. When I had my surgery two years ago the solution was to pin the drain to your blouse or put it in your waistband. Neither being comfortable or secure options. “
Founder, Kathy Adams
316 Mid Valley Center, Ste 188
Carmel, CA 93923
Phone: (831) 440 - 8834
These garments are designed to be dressed up by adding a favorite scarf or accessory....or used as everyday wear.
After one is finished with the drains, simply take out the drain pocket and continue wearing these attractive pieces for your yoga classes or just lounging around. They were designed and manufactured with comfort in mind.
THE PROBLEM: “After my breast cancer surgery they sent me home with all these drains and tubes, I didn’t know how to manage them”
“There are no other products on the market that provide this solution. When I had my surgery two years ago the solution was to pin the drain to your blouse or put it in your waistband. Neither being comfortable or secure options. “
Founder, Kathy Adams
316 Mid Valley Center, Ste 188
Carmel, CA 93923
Phone: (831) 440 - 8834
These garments are designed to be dressed up by adding a favorite scarf or accessory....or used as everyday wear.
After one is finished with the drains, simply take out the drain pocket and continue wearing these attractive pieces for your yoga classes or just lounging around. They were designed and manufactured with comfort in mind.
 |  |  |  |
| Drain Holder | Drain Pocket (detached) | Drain inside of pocket | Drain outside of pocket |
- Discreet snap channels manage the tubes to the drain pocket
- Styling is fashionable and comfortable
- Drain pocket is secure and completely removable after treatment is complete
- Made from wicking material for sensitive skin
- Designed by a breast cancer survivor JUST LIKE YOU
- Cut for easy access to the medical port if needed during treatment and drawing the eye away from the chest area for aesthetic reasons
- A choice for someone not wanting to wear prosthesis full time
- Sleeves cut to address the issues of lymph edema
- Matching Cool Chemo Cap™ and Cool Chemo Pant™
- The versatile styling allows one to dress them up with a few key accessories, or use them as comfort clothes, and still maintain fashion and function.
Offering Cool Chemo clothing as a solution to the patient will minimize the search for resources to assist them in the ongoing management and healing process of surgery.
Suggested insurance code L8015
The Cool Chemo Top™ has an attractive front closure that you can easily put on and remove. The draping of the top draws the eye to the peplum waist and away from the chest. This styling makes it less obvious if you choose not to wear a prosthesis.
The drain holders, concealed on each side of the top, are adjustable in placement and can be completely removed for use after your surgery. The wicking fabric not only helps regulate your body temperature it is also soft on sensitive skin after surgery.
Note: Insurance companies will cover two therapeutic garments per year.
BE SURE TO CHECK WITH YOUR COMPANY for authorization. Made in the USA.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
DIEP flap breast cancer survivor returns to singing!
I am so very proud of my patient Sherilyn who is a breast cancer survivor and who had bilateral mastectomy and DIEP flap reconstruction over a year and a half ago.
She has returned to singing and performing at the Claremont Hotel in Berkeley and to bringing joy to others!
Sharilyn shares her immense talent and passion with a regular group of followers and ballroom dancers who meet each Sunday to dance to the band's tunes.
Sherilyn, her boyfriend Bob (incredible piano player) and Dr. Horton after her performance at Jordan's Restaurant lounge at the Claremont Hotel
Sherilyn the singing diva!
Dr. Horton, Sherilyn and Nurse Mari
Sherilyn and Dr. Horton
Sherilyn belting it out!
An extravagant dessert platter graciously provided by Bob and Sherilyn for the Women's Plastic Surgery group
Sharron, Debbie, Dr. Horton, Sherilyn and Nurse Mari from Women's Plastic Surgery
She has returned to singing and performing at the Claremont Hotel in Berkeley and to bringing joy to others!
Sharilyn shares her immense talent and passion with a regular group of followers and ballroom dancers who meet each Sunday to dance to the band's tunes. 
Sherilyn, her boyfriend Bob (incredible piano player) and Dr. Horton after her performance at Jordan's Restaurant lounge at the Claremont Hotel
Sherilyn the singing diva!
Dr. Horton, Sherilyn and Nurse Mari
Sherilyn and Dr. Horton
Sherilyn belting it out!
An extravagant dessert platter graciously provided by Bob and Sherilyn for the Women's Plastic Surgery group
Sharron, Debbie, Dr. Horton, Sherilyn and Nurse Mari from Women's Plastic Surgery
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Abdominoplasty and liposuction have different goals and outcomes
Karen M. Horton, MD answers:
Lipoabdominoplasty vs regular abdominoplasty for post pregnancy body?
"Does it make a difference? I've had 3 kids and definitely need some help in my stomach area, but I'm not sure what procedure I would need to get my pre-baby figure back."Abdominoplasty and liposuction have different goals and outcomes
If you are a mother who has completed her childbearing, congratulations both on your wonderful family you have created and to entering the next stage of motherhood!
Many women find their abdomens have permanent changes following pregnancy, including stretch marks, loss of abdominal tone, excess skin and extra fat deposits that have accumulated since having babies.
Most mothers do not have complete recovery of their bodies after children.
Moms often seek rejuvenation of their tummy areas once they have finished having kids.
A "mommy makeover" surgical procedure should only be considered at least 6 months after the birth of your last child so that your body has the chance to recover as much as possible and to enable you to achieve as much as you can on your own, with a healthy diet and regular exercise.
Two main Plastic Surgery procedures apply to the post-pregnancy tummy:
Liposuction will remove excess fat in areas that are stubborn to weight loss, such as the abdomen, flanks, pubic area, and thighs. Liposuction will not address excess skin or stretch marks, and will not help to tighten abdominal tone.
An abdominoplasty or "tummy tuck" addresses both the inside and the outside of the abdominal wall, in a three-dimensional manner:
Tummy tuck surgery not only removes excess skin and fat from the lower abdomen (including some stretch marks), it tightens the muscles of the abdominal wall through "rectus plication" which "corsets" the fascia overlying your abdominal muscles together in the midline and truly decreases the diameter of your waist from the inside!
Depending on your particular situation, either liposuction or a tummy tuck, or both, may be recommended to achieve your specific goals.
Be sure to consult with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon with specific experience in these types of surgeries to learn more and to evaluate all of your options.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Teaching Plastic Surgery to Medical Students is Important!
Teaching is the art of giving back what you have learned along your journey of medicine, and offers a chance to help shape the future career of an upcoming doctor!
By teaching others, you challenge your communication skills and ensure you are absolutely up to date with your own medical knowledge. Medicine really is an endeavor of life-long learning.
This weekend I was honored to participate in the Medical School graduation ceremony of Dr. Elena Vega, a bright and driven woman who has been accepted into a surgery program in New York. She hopes to also train in Plastic Surgery in the future.
Dr. Karen Horton "guest hooding" Dr. Elena Vega at her Medical School graduation - June 7, 2009, California
This student spent two separate month-long rotations with me in my private practice and excelled in her clinical and surgical skills, learned a great deal about everything I do in my practice, and was inspired to pursue surgical training herself!
Congratulations to Dr. Elena Vega. I welcome her to the medical community as a colleague and peer.
By teaching others, you challenge your communication skills and ensure you are absolutely up to date with your own medical knowledge. Medicine really is an endeavor of life-long learning.
This weekend I was honored to participate in the Medical School graduation ceremony of Dr. Elena Vega, a bright and driven woman who has been accepted into a surgery program in New York. She hopes to also train in Plastic Surgery in the future.
Dr. Karen Horton "guest hooding" Dr. Elena Vega at her Medical School graduation - June 7, 2009, California
This student spent two separate month-long rotations with me in my private practice and excelled in her clinical and surgical skills, learned a great deal about everything I do in my practice, and was inspired to pursue surgical training herself!
Congratulations to Dr. Elena Vega. I welcome her to the medical community as a colleague and peer.
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