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reasons not to get breast implants

5 Important Things to Consider before Having Cosmetic Breast Surgery

Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation is an amazing procedure that has helped transform the lives of millions of women. It can restore self-confidence, help improve social opportunities, and ultimately make you feel young again.

However, there are a few reasons why you shouldn’t undergo the procedure. Poor health, advanced age, and drug/alcohol abuse are just a few of the many things that can prevent your surgery from being a success—and in some cases can cause life-threatening complications.

If you’re considering breast augmentation surgery, we want to share with you a few important reasons why you shouldn’t get the surgery—or at the very least, seek the advice of a respected Board-Certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Adams.

Pre-Existing Medical Problems Making Surgical Risk Unacceptable

At some point in your life, your body will be too old to heal up properly from a breast augmentation procedure. Whether that reasoning comes from age itself or from a pre-existing medical condition that may put you at higher risk during an operation.

While many women in their late 40s and 50s have successfully undergone the procedure, it’s usually performed on a case-by-case basis, so it’s important to be open with your doctor about anything that may cause issues during surgery.

During your consultation, your surgeon will want to know not only your medical history but, in some cases, the history of your immediate family members. This will give them a good indication of whether or not your body is able to properly handle the stress of the procedure itself, as well as the healing process that comes afterwards.

In addition to scheduling a consultation with a Board-Certified plastic surgeon, it’s often advised that women over the age of 40 get a physical and clearance from their family doctor. While it’s not a requirement, it will give you peace of mind knowing that a doctor thinks your body can successfully heal itself after the procedure.

Poor Health

As with pre-existing medical conditions, if you’re not healthy, in general, your body will have a very difficult time healing up from a breast augmentation procedure. Women who are in poor health and have the procedure done anyways face an increased risk of complications.

Even women in their 20s who aren’t in good health should avoid getting any elective surgery performed. Being healthy is not determined by your age. While we do tend to associate some health problems with becoming older, younger people can be affected by an unhealthy lifestyle just as much as someone older.

What is “poor health” exactly? This is something that only your family doctor and surgeon can tell you. They’re the ones who know your medical history and whether or not your body can successfully heal itself after the surgery.

It’s always important to consult with your doctor, as well as the surgeon, to determine if you are healthy enough to undergo any type of surgery.

Drugs/Smoking/Alcohol

If you’re addicted to drugs, tobacco, alcohol, or you use them regularly, it’s often advised that you stop completely before you undergo breast augmentation. They will drastically increase the amount of time your body needs to heal and can cause complications.

This sage advice especially holds true if you have had a history of addiction to pain killers of any sort. Even though you successfully conquered your addiction, it could come right back if you request certain pain medications from your doctor.

If you have a history of addiction, it’s best to inform your doctor as there are certain things he can do for you. For example, Dr. Adams has pioneered the “24-hour recovery” breast implant procedure that only requires the patient to take over-the-counter Motrin to deal with any pain.

Haven’t Done Your Research

One of the biggest reasons why women who undergo a 2nd breast augmentation procedure is due to them not performing their research before the surgery. There are a lot of things to take into consideration, such as what cup size you’re looking for and having realistic expectations.

While a specific style of breasts may look great on a Hollywood celebrity, they may not look as good on you. This is often due to the body of the star being much different than yours. The best way to perform your research is to speak with a plastic surgeon.

You Only Consulted “Dr. Google”

While the internet has a ton of helpful information, when it comes to taking medical advice, you should only listen to a Board-Certified plastic surgeon. They are the utmost authority and your best friend when it comes to telling you the honest truth. Many of the so-called medical websites or Facebook groups are full of well-meaning, but uninformed people. Take what you read online with a grain of salt.

One of the best ways to perform online research is to keep a written log of questions that you have. If you find something online, be sure to ask your plastic surgeon for their opinion during your initial consultation. Don’t automatically believe whatever your friend on Facebook is telling you—no matter how “common sense” it may seem.

The internet is a great way to get initial information and come up with a list of questions to ask your surgeon.

Is Breast Augmentation Right for You?

Due to the complicated nature of breast implant surgery, it’s best to seek advice from a trusted Board-Certified surgeon. Dr. Adams is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and has undergone extensive training and education. He’s one of the foremost experts on breast augmentation in America and was instrumental in developing the 24-hour recovery procedure.

If you’re ready to schedule a consultation with Dr. Adams, give us a call at (214) 965-9885 or contact us via our website. We’re currently accepting new patients—no matter where in the country you live. We’re located just 30-minutes from Dallas/Fort Worth airport in Dallas, Texas.

dallas restaurants

5 Amazing Dallas Restaurants Located Near Our Office

Entertainment

Snider Plaza in Dallas is not only home to our plastic surgery offices, but an amazing collection of restaurants that serve up great-tasting food. From authentic German bratwurst to one of the few genuinely healthy fast-food restaurants in the state, there’s no shortage of great places to eat. We want to share with you our top five favorite restaurants that are located within a short distance of our offices.

Penne Pomodoro

We’re kicking off this list with a local favorite that’s just a few minutes’ walk from our offices. Penne Pomodoro is located in the same plaza (Snider Plaza) as our plastic surgery offices. It’s a great place to grab a bite to eat for lunch or settle down for a satisfying dinner. Service is prompt, and the overall ambiance is very cozy.

The huge menu features many Italian favorites, such as pizza, pasta, and ravioli—to name just a few. The portions are decent-sized, and the ingredients are all fresh. The wine selection is about what you’d expect from a smaller bistro of this size. Italian reds/whites and Chardonnay comprise the majority of the list. If you’re in the mood for a hearty Italian lunch or dinner, be sure to stop by Penne Pomodoro.

What: Penne Pomodoro
Where: 6815 Snider Plaza. Dallas, TX 75205
Cost: $$$$$
Reservations: First come, first served.
Yelp Rating: 3.5/5 Stars.

Zoës Kitchen

If you’re looking for a quick bite to eat, then Zoës Kitchen is worth checking out. Located just a block down the street from our offices, they feature a robust menu that’s chock-full of healthy Mediterranean options. The interior is bright, and the service staff are friendly and knowledgeable.

Best of all, you don’t have to sit down for lunch. You can find plenty of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options to go. Zoës is a great way to eat a fast, healthy meal without the accompanying guilt trip that occurs when you chow down on a Big Mac for lunch.

What: Zoës Kitchen
Where: 6800 Snider Plaza. Dallas, TX 75205
Cost: $$$$$
Reservations: Not required.
Yelp Rating: 3.5/5 Stars.

Bubba’s Cooks Country

Sometimes you have an insatiable craving for down-home comfort foods. Bubba’s fits that bill perfectly. While they don’t have many healthy items on the menu, you will find some of the best fried chicken, green beans, and mashed potatoes outside of Grandma’s kitchen.

Step inside, and the décor will instantly transport you back to the 1950s. Checkerboard floors, puffy red vinyl booths, and an ample supply of neon lighting give Bubba’s an authentic feel that’s backed up by some really good-tasting food. Prices are reasonable, and they serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

What: Bubba’s Cooks Country
Where: 6617 Hillcrest Ave Dallas, TX 75205
Cost: $$$$$
Reservations: Not required.
Yelp Rating: 4/5 Stars.

Kuby’s Sausage House

Kuby’s Sausage House has been in the same location since 1961. It features some of the most authentic and best-tasting German food you’ll find outside of Berlin. It’s comprised of a deli where you can order meats and sandwiches to go, and a sit-down restaurant that’s decorated in cuckoo clocks, rustic wooden tables, and various beer steins.

The menu features everything from Oma’s pancakes to schnitzel and homemade soups. The portions at Kuby’s are absolutely massive—so be sure to bring a healthy appetite, or you’ll need to ask for a doggy bag at the end of your meal. If you really want the authentic “old world” experience, stop by for dinnertime when the lights are dimmed, and traditional live music is played on the stage.

What: Kuby’s Sausage House
Where: 6601 Snider Plaza, Dallas, TX 75205
Cost: $$$$$
Reservations: Not required.
Yelp Rating: 4/5 Stars.

Dive Coastal Cuisine

Dive Coastal Cuisine achieved the seemingly impossible by merging the words “fast food” with “healthy.” Their menu features a wide selection of healthy and delicious fast-seafood such as salads, wraps, and of course, fresh fish. Wester ross salmon, Texas redfish, and wild ivory salmon are just a few of the many dining options on the menu.

The interior and exterior décor will instantly transport you to a breezy seaside town with lots of light blue and green colors that grace the walls. Dive Coastal is a great way to grab a healthy quick bite to eat for lunch or settle down for a nutritious dinner. Be sure to order the Ahi Tuna wrap—trust us on this one.

What: Dive Coastal Cuisine
Where: 3404 Rankin St Dallas, TX 75205
Cost: $$$$$
Reservations: Not required.
Yelp Rating: 4/5 Stars.

Dallas Restaurants Near Snider Plaza

If you’re craving a bite to eat after you’ve gotten a Botox or other non-invasive surgery treatment done at our offices, be sure to check out one of the five amazing restaurants that are all located within a short walk of our offices!

botox for depression

Can Botox Help with Depression?

Non-Surgical

Depression is a serious medical illness that affects millions of people throughout the U.S. Treatment usually comes in the form of visiting a psychologist who will talk to the patient, run some tests, and then prescribe therapy, anti-depressants, or a combination of thereof.

However, recent medical studies have shown that Botox can potentially help treat depression and some social anxieties. We’re going to look at what depression is, the current methods used to treat it, and exactly how Botox might be able to help alleviate the symptoms.

What is Depression?

Depression is a mental disorder that negatively affects how people feel, act, and think. It’s characterized by feelings of sadness, loss of hope, and can lead to a loss of interest in activities that the patient used to enjoy. 

If left untreated, the condition can cause a wide variety of physical or emotional problems that will take their toll upon a person’s life, relationships, and even work. In some extreme cases, patients who suffer from depression will lose the will to go on with life.

While there are many different types of depression, the World Health Organization has estimated that over 250 million people worldwide suffer from some form of it. Fortunately, depression has been studied for many decades, and scientists have come up with multiple and effective ways of treating it.

How to Treat Depression?

Out of all of the mental disorders, depression is the one that’s the most treatable. Around 80 to 90 percent of those with the condition will eventually respond well to their prescribed treatments. 

The key to treating depression is to get diagnosed by a licensed mental health professional. A medical doctor, such as a family practitioner, cannot diagnose depression. They can only rule out medical conditions that might contribute to it. 

Before treatment is prescribed, the mental health professional will want to sit down and interview you face-to-face. They will ask questions that will help them come up with a diagnosis. They might even ask that you go back to your medical doctor and get some additional tests performed.

If the mental health professional does diagnose depression, there are several treatment options that they can prescribe at their discretion:

Medications – Scientists think that brain chemistry plays a significant role in depression. Anti-depressants can help alleviate it in some patients. There are many different kinds of medicines on the market—if you tried one ten years ago and it didn’t work, there’s a good chance there’s a new drug on the market that might help.

Therapy – Talk therapy, or psychotherapy, is sometimes used to help treat depression. In some cases, it might be used in conjunction with medications. Psychologists have found that talk therapy to be highly effective in helping treat some forms of depression.

How Can Botox Help Treat Depression?

Botox is a non-invasive cosmetic treatment that’s typically used to smooth out lines and wrinkles on the face. Over the past few years, many medical studies have been performed that show Botox can be used to treat other medical conditions, such as a gummy smile, migraines, and excessive sweating.

Clinical Trials

Recent scientific studies have found that Botox could be an effective treatment for depression. Some people can have a very severe reaction to anti-depressants, or it can cause unintended side effects that can drastically reduce the quality of life.

In 2006, a clinical trial was performed where 30 people were given a series of Botox injections in the facial area. They were diagnosed with symptoms of depression and were already taking anti-depressants. Over the next 16 weeks, ½ of the people were given a Botox injection while the other half received a placebo saline injection.

The participants who received the Botox injection told researchers that they had experienced a 47.1 percent decrease in their depression symptoms six weeks after being injected. Over the next few years, several other studies were performed that seemed to mirror the similar results as the original one.

How Does Botox Treat Depression?

Researchers initially thought that by injecting Botox in areas on the face where frown lines can occur, it would improve the mood of the patient when they look at themselves in the mirror.

However, more recent studies are shifting that line of thinking. Some scientists now believe that facial expressions, such as frowning, can send signals to the brain that indicate a person is unhappy.  

By blocking the ability of the muscles to contract with a series of Botox injections, it prevents this part of the face from sending a signal to the brain that the person is depressed—and can result in an improved overall mood.

Botox in Dallas

While researchers are still studying the effect that Botox has upon the overall mood of patients who suffer from depression, it seems as if the results are showing signs of promise. 

Even if you don’t suffer from depression, Botox can help smooth out wrinkles and facial lines that you don’t like. If you’re in the Dallas area and would like to speak to an expert about Botox for depression, give Dr. Adams a call at (214) 965-9885 or schedule an appointment via our website.

unlicensed surgeons

Unlicensed Surgeons – What to Look Out For?

Plastic Surgery

There’s been a rash of news stories lately about people who have suffered life-threatening medical complications as a result of visiting an unlicensed surgeon. While this is nothing new, it serves as a reminder of just how dangerous plastic surgery and non-invasive treatments are when they aren’t performed in the office of a licensed plastic surgeon.

The trouble with finding a reputable surgeon is that the non-licensed ones will often use aggressive marketing tactics and take advantage of the unsuspecting public. We’re going to take a look at the various things that you should consider to avoid an unlicensed surgeon:

Research the Credentials of the Surgeon

One of the biggest giveaways of an unlicensed surgeon is their lack of credentials. Research the doctor by asking them what their credentials are and which organizations they belong to. Look for surgeons who are Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

This means that they have undergone the rigorous training, education, and residency required by this prestigious institution. Another clue are the various medical organizations they are—or aren’t—a member of.

For example, in addition to being a board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Adams also a member of the: American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), member and Past President of ASERF (Aesthetic Society Education and Research Foundation).

The Consultation 

Before you undergo a non-invasive procedure or other surgical treatment, a qualified  surgeon should require a face-to-face consultation. Now is the best time to ask them about their qualifications and such other questions as:

  • “How many of these procedures or surgeries a year do you do?”
  • “Are you board-certified?
  • “What is the overall success rate?”
  • “What will my recovery be like?”

When it comes time to make a decision, trust your gut instinct. If the surgeon starts getting a bit squirrely, defensive, or quickly changes the subject when you ask them if they’re board-certified, this is probably an indicator that you need to keep researching.

A board-certified plastic surgeon will be open with his credentials, organizational memberships, and have zero trouble answering any of your questions. They’re there to help you look your very best and have your personal safety in mind.

Cheap Cost

So-called surgeons or medical spas that offer Groupon discounts or other procedures at a severe discount are another huge red flag. No self-respecting surgeon is going to run a Facebook special to attract new clients. Their stellar reputation and referrals from satisfied patients are all that they need to attract new business.

The rise of injectables, or non-invasive surgery, has opened the door for many unqualified surgeons to try and take advantage of the unsuspecting public. They will sometimes operate out of a decrepit strip mall office, or in other cases in the garage or living room of their apartment!

There’s a reason why plastic surgery costs what it does—you’re getting the services of a highly trained and skilled professional who has dedicated a good portion of their adult life towards their medical education and training. In short, cheap procedures yield cheap results. You want to look your very best—why take the risk to save a few dollars?

Examine Their Website

Look at the biography section of the website and try to confirm the information that they’re telling you. Often, fly-by-night surgeons will leave this section blank. A good plastic surgeon will want to share his credentials and experience with the public.

Look at the blog on the website as well. While this isn’t a reliable indicator of whether or not they’re an excellent surgeon, a well-maintained and recently updated blog is a sign that they’re putting effort into their site—and care about their medical practice. 

Keep in mind that anyone can build a website—you don’t need a medical degree to create one. However, a good-looking website with lots of updated content and relevant information that promotes their practice can tell you a lot about the surgeon you’re considering.

Ask for Clarification 

An unlicensed surgeon might start to get jittery or defensive when you ask about such things as benefits, risks, and potential complications. A board-certified surgeon will gladly take the time to explain the procedure and the various risks or complications.

If the person you’re talking to tells you, “everything is going to be fine, there’s nothing to worry about,” this should be a massive red flag that something isn’t right. While plastic surgery procedures performed by a board-certified surgeon have an excellent track record, medical complications can and sometimes do occur—owing to each person’s own personal medical history. 

A qualified surgeon will also ask you about your medical history, any allergies, and other issues that could potentially increase the risk of complications. If the surgeon feels that you’re at risk of complications due to your medical history, they will have no problem informing you of their concerns.

Board-Certified Surgeon in Dallas

By diligently performing research and considering the above five examples, you can help avoid the risk of getting the surgery done by an unlicensed surgeon. If you’re ready to schedule a consultation, give the offices of Dr. Adams a call at (214) 965-9885 or contact us via our website.

Dr. Adams is a Board-Certified surgeon who is also a member of several prestigious medical organizations. He’s also an Associate Professor in the Department of Plastic Surgery at UT Southwestern Medical Center. He will be more than happy to sit down with you, discuss your concerns, and offer his expert advice.

coolsculpting men

CoolSculpting for Men – Not Just Women

Non-Surgical

Are you a guy who has pockets of stubborn fat that just won’t go away—no matter how much you exercise or diet? If so, there’s a highly popular, non-invasive surgical treatment that can help. It’s called CoolSculpting. It uses a wand that freezes away areas of fat on your body that are hard to lose through regular exercise and a good diet.

More and more men are discovering the benefits of CoolSculpting and reclaiming the bodies they had when they were in their late teens. We’re going to take a look at what CoolSculpting is, how it works, and why an increasing number of men are opting to undergo the procedure.

What is CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting is an FDA-cleared procedure that was approved for the market in 2012. It helps treats visible fat bulges in several areas of the body, such as under the chin, thighs, abdomen, flank, upper arm, back fat, and underneath the buttocks. Also known as cryolipolysis, it’s intended to freeze and kill stubborn fat cells. Over time, your body will absorb the fat cells, process, and then naturally eliminate them.

The overall procedure can last anywhere from one to three hours. The cost will be dependent upon how much fat you have and the length of treatment time. To date, well over 4,000,000 people have successfully undergone the CoolSculpting treatment, and it’s one of the top five non-invasive procedures performed by plastic surgeons.

The overall results are promising. A recent study showed that, on average, there is a 20 to 80 percent reduction of fat in the treatment area following a single session. That fat loss occurred throughout a 3-month period. It also found that around 82 percent of people who underwent the procedure would recommend it to a friend.

How Does Coolsculpting Work?

CoolSculpting is a non-invasive fat-reducing procedure—which means no incisions, liposuction, or anything of the sort. Patients will come into the plastic surgery office and lie down on the table. A gel will be applied in the target area, and then a wand will attach to the area of fat that you want to get rid of.

You might feel a slight tingle or a sensation of extreme cold. These sensations will subside as the targeted area becomes numb. The freezing cold will start to kill off the fat cells during the treatment session. After the procedure is over, you’ll be clear to return to your normal daily life with little to no downtime.

You probably won’t notice a major difference in the following hours after the procedure. The CoolSculpting procedure killed the fat cells during the treatment session, but it can take a few days to a few weeks for your body to recognize, process, and eliminate the dead fat cells. Sometimes a couple of treatment sessions are required to get the full benefit of the procedure.

CoolSculpting isn’t intended for people who need to lose weight. It’s only a spot-treatment type of procedure. If you’re overweight and diet/exercise aren’t working, make an appointment with a plastic surgeon to discuss alternative weight loss options such as liposuction.

Men and CoolSculpting

So why are so many men getting this procedure done as of late? It’s most likely due to changes in public opinion regarding how men wanting to look their best. Men, much like women, have problem areas on their body that they are not proud of. For some, it could be excess body hair, for others excess fat. By undergoing the CoolSculpting procedure, it can help improve the self-esteem of men by removing stubborn areas of fat.

The popularity of such social media sites as Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook have also given rise to the increase in men opting for cosmetic procedures. Plastic surgeons often see an uptick in non-invasive procedures just before the summer season. Guys want to look their best when they’re at the pool, river, or beach.

Another reason that more and more men are undergoing the CoolSculpting procedure is due to their lifestyle. A sedentary job, such as computer programming, requires a person to sit long hours at a desk in front of the computer. If that person has to travel a lot for work, it’s often challenging to find the time to get out to the gym and eat healthy. CoolSculpting can help support the good results gained from a healthy diet and regular gym exercise program.

CoolSculpting for Men in Dallas

If you’re located in the Dallas area and need some help losing that extra bit of stubborn fat on your body, give us a call at (214) 965-9885 or contact us to set an appointment. Our CoolSculpting treatment can be used in conjunction with other non-invasive procedures to help you look your very best. Dr. Adams is a world-renowned plastic surgeon and will sit down with you, listen to your concerns, and suggest the best treatment options available.