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hand injections

​Hand Injections – Is This the Latest Cosmetic Surgery Trend?

Non-Surgical

Are injectables literally getting out of hand?

A recent news article in the ThisIsInsider online magazine stated that some people are now getting an acidic gel injected into their hands for cosmetic purposes. This procedure is becoming popular with people over the age of 40 who have sunspots, wrinkles, and protruding veins.

As we get older, the skin on our hands can be a clear indicator of how old we are. More and more people realize this and Restylane Lyft has created a product that is FDA-approved to restore fullness to the back of the hands.

Emerging New Injectable Trends

Our insatiable appetite to find the fountain of youth has led us to the point where injectables are now being used for all sorts of unorthodox cosmetic procedures. Just a decade or so ago, the only injectable around was Botox, and that was used to remove lines and wrinkles from the facial area.

Some of the more unique trends in injectables are:

Under-Eye Bags – Women in South Korea find bags under the eyes to be very fashionable. Their doctors will inject the under-eye area with a filler to create a baggy, puffy look.

G-spot Fillers – Some doctors in America are injecting fillers under the G-spot area to elevate it physically. This provides a heightened sexual experience and sensation for women who undergo this procedure.

Botox in Shoulders – Another strange trend out of Korea is when women get Botox injections into their shoulder area. It is supposed to help break up the appearance of shoulders that have a bulky look to them.

A Botox injection can help reduce the size and appearance of the trapezius muscles (aka “traps”). The result is the appearance of a much longer and slimmer neck and shoulders.

Traditional Injectables

Traditionally, injectables like Botox and other fillers have been used to lessen the appearance of lines and wrinkles on the face. Our faces are the first thing other people see and are a clear indicator as to how old we are.

The most common areas for Botox to be injected are the forehead, sides of the eyes, and corners of the mouth. This is where the most noticeable signs of aging occur.

Botox usually only lasts four to six months before another round of injections is required. Some doctors have begun experimenting with a “cocktail” of Botox and injectables that can last upwards of one year. A typical injectable cocktail might include Botox to relax the frown lines, Radiesse to fill in the wrinkles, and Sculptra to fill in the cheeks.

Why are People Getting Hand Injections?

Botox and fillers have worked so well over the years that people are now looking at fixing other parts of their body that can indicate how old they are. The hands are one of those areas.

Whenever we go outside, our hands are usually exposed to the sun. Once we hit 40 years old, sun spots, wrinkles, and veins start to show up. A face that has Botox and fillers may make a person look ten years younger, but their hands are usually a dead giveaway of how old they are.

Our hands also lose volume as we grow older. The fat will disappear, and the shape of the hand will start to look bony and gaunt. Cosmetic surgeons initially focused on transferring and injecting fat into the hands, but it didn’t last long. It wasn’t until the FDA approved Restylane Lyft did hand injections start becoming more popular.

What other Injectables Are Being Used?

While Restylane Lyft is the only product that is specifically FDA approved for injecting into hands, some plastic surgeons are using such fillers as Radiesse and Voluma to help plump up the hands in a procedure known as “off-label.”

Off-Label usage of injectables means that they were not intended for what they are being used for. Generally speaking, it’s thought that off-label use is relatively safe. It’s best to do your research and ask around for a 2nd opinion before getting an off-label procedure performed.

Voluma is made out of a high-density hyaluronic gel that can “stay put” for long periods of time. Radiesse is a calcium-based filler that is impossible to tell the difference from natural tissue once injected into the body.

Non-Injectable Procedures for Hands

Some people are opting for a combination of injectables and other cosmetic procedures. Lasers and chemical peels are also gaining in popularity. Over the years, chemical peels have become much milder and safer than they were 20 years ago.

Do Hand Injectables Really Work?

Hand injectables do work, but if you wish to maintain appearances, you will need to get maintenance injections performed at regular intervals. Injectables are not meant to be permanent.

If you’re looking for more permanent results, plastic surgery is the only way to go. At some point, the cost of getting the injections will equal out to the cost of performing a plastic surgery procedure.

cosmetic surgery men

​Plastic Surgery for Men on the Rise

Plastic Surgery

Let’s face it. Guys want to look great too. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, men made up 13% of all invasive cosmetic procedures in 2017. That may pale in comparison to women going under-the-knife, but men are finally coming out of the woodwork admitting their desires to take their bodies to the next level.

And why not? As both invasive and non-invasive cosmetic surgeries become more mainstream for women, shouldn’t it for guys as well? Thanks to the rise of social media and reality television allowing for a more intimate peek into the lives of others, we’re learning that good looks, and the confidence that goes with them, often don’t come naturally.

It’s also showing us that cosmetic surgeries are no longer just for the rich and famous. As we learn more about the procedures now available, from simple botox injections to complex facelifts, people are discovering that looking great is possible for all income levels and lifestyles.

Why Are More Men Getting Cosmetic Surgery?

For years, there has been a cultural stigma attached to males undergoing plastic surgery more so than females. Caring significantly about outer appearances has traditionally been considered a feminine trait. Many men feared they would come off as less masculine if they fretted about fine lines or looked to a surgeon to help them lose that pooch.

Thankfully, as times change, so do former faux-pas. More men are speaking out about their decision to go under-the-knife and are becoming more comfortable with their desire to enhance their appearance.

Still, one gripe among men interested in plastic surgery is how female oriented the industry is. They are simply turned off by the plethora of pink walls, soft music, or before and after pictures only featuring women. Even if the stigma is lessening, it still definitely exists.

To counteract this stigma, more cosmetic surgeons are jumping on the bandwagon by specifically advertising to guys. Some practices even now cater exclusively to men. Instead of pastel-colored walls and smooth jazz, these offices look more like cigar lounges or sports bars. Gone is also the fear of having to explain your desired procedure to a female receptionist, or the cute woman sitting next to you in the waiting room.

The Most Common Cosmetic Surgeries for Men

So, now that more men are undergoing plastic surgery, which procedures are they choosing? For the most part, many of the same ones that women do—aside from the obvious exceptions. Currently, the five common cosmetic procedures for men are:

  • Botox—or “brotox” if you will—has absolutely taken over the market since its introduction. Since 2010, there has been a 27% jump in men choosing to get these injectable fillers. Minimally invasive with no downtime, it’s by far the most requested cosmetic procedure in the country with 1,548,236 injections performed in 2017 alone.
  • Liposuction is the most common invasive cosmetic surgery for men in the U.S. with 31,021 procedures performed in 2017. As we age, sometimes even the best diet and exercise regimes can’t get rid of some of that stubborn fat. Or hey, maybe it’s just time to treat yourself and get that beach body back.
  • Eyelid Surgery, technically called a blepharoplasty, is the second most common invasive procedure for men after liposuction. This delicate operation can take years off patients by eliminating excess drooping skin around the eyes. Goodbye crow’s feet and baggy eyes!
  • Male Breast Reduction for the treatment of gynecomastia or excessive breast tissue is a very popular male-specific cosmetic procedure. Many men simply feel emasculated by having larger breasts. This surgery is a wonderful option for men wanting to take control of their life and regain their confidence.
  • Tummy Tuck—Because sometimes a little lipo simply won’t cut it. If you notice yourself solemn staring at your FUPA (front upper pelvic area) every morning wishing for your formally flat stomach, this might be the right procedure for you. Over 8,500 men underwent a tummy tuck in 2017 proving that not only ladies dream of that perfectly flat belly.

What Men Should Look For When Choosing a Plastic Surgeon?

First off, make sure you inquire with potential surgeons about their experience working with men. Also ask to view before and after pictures of previous male patients undergoing the same treatment you’re interested in. Techniques needed to create incredible results can vary greatly between genders.

For example, an ideal rhinoplasty for a woman is vastly different than a man’s. A surgeon may be a genius when it comes to making a perfect female button nose, but can they translate their skills when it comes to creating your ideal masculine nose?

In addition, experience is everything when it comes to choosing the right plastic surgeon. Find a surgeon that has many years of experience performing the specific procedure you want. Also ensure they are fully certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Your surgeon should also be open to answer any and all questions thoroughly and transparently.

There’s no shame in embracing those Dad Bod curves, but there’s also no shame in wanting to look incredible—no matter your age or gender. If you’re ready for your outside to match how you feel inside, trust William P. Adams Jr. MD. With over 20 years practicing cosmetic surgery, Dr. Adams is committed to making his patients look and feel better than ever. Contact us online or call 214-965-9885 to schedule a consultation or get more information.

breast implant rupture

​My Silicone Breast Implant Ruptured – What Should I Do?

Chest Questions

There have been several studies that looked at the potential risks that might be associated with ruptured silicone implants. Researchers concluded that an implant rupture is a “relatively harmless condition.” The main risk arises from the potential of the silicone to spread to other parts of the body such as the lymph nodes where it can cause serious medical complications if not removed.

Previous generation implants lasted only 10 years; however, current generation implants last much longer and there is no timepoint when they should be replaced. Patients are recommended to have annual follow-up on breast implants.

What are silicone breast implants?

Silicone implants are filled with a silicone gel substance and are generally considered to be more life-like than saline implants. They were developed in 1962, mainly for breast reconstructive surgery patients who have had a mastectomy. It wasn’t until the 1980’s did breast implants explode in popularity for cosmetic purposes.

During this period, several people claimed that implants were unsafe due to the alleged risks of silicone implants rupturing. Despite the scientific community being unable to correlate diseases that were brought on by ruptured silicone implants, the FDA restricted their use to women having reconstructive surgery in the early 1990’s.

Silicone vs. Saline – Which is better?

Both silicone and saline implants have their pros and cons. Some women feel that saline implants are inferior, and don’t look or feel as natural as silicone ones. They also claim that saline implants are more likely to cause rippling of the skin – a dead giveaway of an implant.

Saline implants are only filled once they’re inside the breast pocket, so a much smaller incision is required than a silicone implant would need.

What Causes Silicone Implants to Rupture?

From time to time, silicone implants can fail. Most people call this a rupture, but it is not really a rupture but a tear in the shell of the implant. The vast majority of ruptured implants are due to mammograms. The FDA has reported that around 62% of ruptured implants are thought to have occurred during a mammogram.

Other causes could include:

  • End of the lifespan of the implant
  • Damage was done accidentally to the implant during initial or secondary surgery
  • Wrinkling or folding of the implant shell which weakens structural integrity
  • Blunt force trauma to the chest area

Saline implants can rupture just as easily as a silicone one can, however, the saline solution that leaks out will be harmlessly absorbed by the body. The primary cause for concern with a ruptured silicone implant is the potential spread of the silicone gel to other parts of the body where the potential for complications can occur.

How to Tell If Your Implants Have Ruptured

The older the breast implant, the higher the risk of it rupturing. In some cases, it is easy to tell that your silicone implant has ruptured. There will be a visible deformity of the breast, and it won’t look or feel right.

In other cases, the only way for a patient or doctor to tell if an implant has ruptured is to have an MRI or ultrasound performed. Sometimes an implant will burst on its own without any noticeable signs or symptoms. This is why it’s recommended that women who have silicone implants get checked every few years – to be on the safe side.

Some other symptoms of a ruptured implant could include:

  • Slow implant deflation over time
  • Loss of breast size or shrinking of the implant
  • Burning, numbness, swelling, or tingling of the breast
  • Breast suddenly seems to “harden” and feel very unnatural
  • Lumps or knots around the implant or armpit area

What to Do If a Rupture Occurs?

If only one breast implant has ruptured, it’s usually more cost effective to have them both replaced or removed. The cost of replacing or removing one implant is very similar to having both done. If one implant ruptured due to it nearing the end of its lifespan, it’s very likely that the other implant will rupture soon after.

The best thing to do is to see a surgeon and explain any out of the ordinary symptoms you might be experiencing. During surgery, the doctor will try to remove as much of the leaking silicone material as possible.

Ruptured Breast Implant Solutions in Dallas

If you have had or suspect a breast implant rupture, give our offices a call at (214) 965-9885 or schedule an appointment. Dr. Adams is a nationally-renowned breast implant expert and can help answer any additional questions you might have regarding saline or silicone implants rupturing. We accept patients from all over the country and are conveniently located within a 15-minute drive of Dallas Love Field Airport.

umbilicoplasty

​What is an Umbilicoplasty?

Plastic Surgery

In the past few months, several news stories have reported an increase in popularity of a plastic surgery procedure designed to fix the shape or position of the belly button. An umbilicoplasty is a stand-alone cosmetic surgery option that can transform an “innie” belly button into an “outtie” or reposition it due to asymmetrical concerns on the part of the patient.

Over the past decade or so, social media and the prevalence of high-definition camera phones have caused more and more people to become self-aware of their bodies. This phenomenon is most prevalent in the summertime when people shed their winter clothes for bathing suits which expose more skin. As such, it’s understandable how more and more people are opting for plastic surgery – but is there really a new trend in belly button surgeries?

Why Do We Have a Belly Button?

A belly button is a scar that results from the cutting of the umbilical cord which connects the baby to the mother. The size and shape of the belly button are highly dependent on genetic factors but can also be dependent upon exactly how the doctor cuts the umbilical cord. The resulting scar will determine if a person has an innie or an outtie belly button.

As people get older, the belly button can change due to a wide variety of factors such as pregnancy, weight gain/loss, or even injuries. The vast majority of people who get umbilicoplasty procedures are women. This is mostly because the look and size of their belly buttons were changed due to a pregnancy.

Why Get an Umbilicoplasty?

Social media and the perception of one’s own body isn’t the only reason a person might want to get an umbilicoplasty. Sometimes pregnancy will cause a belly button to become herniated and change the size, shape, or position.

Massive weight loss can also cause changes in the appearance. The vast majority of people who opt for this surgery do so for aesthetic reasons solely. There is no medical purpose other than one’s perception of their body.

The other reasons for getting an umbilicoplasty can include:

  • Turning “outtie” into an “innie”
  • Rejuvenation of the abdomen
  • Replacing belly button that was lost due to prior injury or surgery
  • Reduce the size of the belly button
  • Scar removal (previous operations or piercings)
  • Excess skin elimination

Are People Really Getting This Procedure?

Yes and no. Despite what the news media is reporting, many plastic surgeons aren’t reporting a massive rush of patients looking to change the size and shape of their belly button unless it was deformed from pregnancy or prior injury.

The vast majority of people who opt for an umbilicoplasty are coming in for other procedures such as tummy tucks and tightening of the excess skin on the stomach. They wind up getting the belly button procedure done at the same time. There’s a limit on what plastic surgery can do to fix a perceived asymmetrical belly button.

Is It Worth It?

This procedure is worth it to a point – there are many instances where the plastic surgeon can confidently change the size, shape, or position of the belly button. However, under certain circumstances, the chances of a good outcome can prove to be a bit more challenging.

Some people will want an umbilicoplasty because they feel that their belly button is not perfectly symmetrical with the rest of their body. It might be “off” by 1mm. In cases like this, it’s downright hard, if not impossible for the surgeon to achieve 100% symmetry. A good surgeon will let the patient know that the human body is not designed to be perfectly symmetrical. It’s the little imperfections that make people unique and beautiful.

If every single human had a perfectly symmetrical body, it wouldn’t look right to the human eye. The small imperfections of the human body combine as a whole to make us look human. Otherwise, we would look like life-like robots that you see in science fiction movies.

Downtime?

If the umbilicoplasty is performed by itself, a patient may return to work or school the next day. However, if it’s performed in conjunction with a tummy tuck or umbilical hernia repair, then there may be 1-2 weeks of recovery time needed.

Results will become apparent as soon as the surgical area starts to heal and the scars fade – usually in a few months after the procedure date. The final results are evident by the 1-year anniversary of the surgery.

Risks of Umbilicoplasty?

As with any elective surgery, there can be risks associated with getting an umbilicoplasty. Delayed wound healing, excessive scarring, and infection can all occur. Another risk is potential dissatisfaction with the overall aesthetics. Under or over-correction may occur, or the surgeon might have a very challenging time getting the exact placement you’re looking for. Speak with your surgeon about any concerns you might have.

Plastic Surgery in Dallas

If you’re considering getting a tummy tuck or other work performed on your abdominal area, give Dr. Adams a call at (214) 965-9885 or schedule an appointment. Dr. Adams is a nationally-renowned plastic surgeon who can help transform the look and feel of your body.

aesthetic lasers

Aesthetic Lasers – Do They Work, and If so, How Well?​

Non-Surgical

Plastic surgeons are usually early adopters of new technologies that deliver better results and less downtime for their patients. Over the past few years, aesthetic lasers have exploded in popularity. You can’t pick up a woman’s magazine at the supermarket checkout without seeing an ad for a cosmetic laser procedure. The advertising claims seem too good to be true.

Is it possible to get facelift-like results with only a laser? Long answer no, short answer yes. We’re going to look at aesthetic lasers, what they can and can’t do, as well as what applications do they work best.

What Are Aesthetic Lasers?

In 1983, a scientific paper was published that claimed lasers could be used for cosmetology purposes as well as treating specific skin conditions. This kicked off a laser revolution in medical science that gave rise to a multitude of new cosmetic procedures.

Aesthetic lasers work by using light and heat to stimulate the growth of new collagen in the skin. As we age, our bodies start to lose the ability to produce collagen naturally. This results in wrinkles, fine lines, spots, and other skin conditions which are indicative of getting older. The more collagen your skin has, the fresher and younger-looking it will be.

Nowadays there are many different types and brands of lasers that are used for all sorts of cosmetic procedures. The laser manufacturers sometimes will make advertising claims that seem too good to be true, such as their laser treatments can give just as good of results as a traditional facelift would. The problem with these claims is that sometimes there is only a kernel of truth in their advertising.

What Procedures Use Aesthetic Lasers?

Lasers are good at surface treatments. They can fix spots on the face, tighten skin, treat pigment issues, and even smooth out wrinkles. Here are just some of the procedures that use aesthetic lasers:

Skin rejuvenation/resurfacing – Back in the old days, if you wanted skin rejuvenation, you had to endure a painful chemical peel. Nowadays, lasers have taken the place of dangerous, caustic chemicals. They can be used to treat acne scars, facial wrinkles, and other skin blemishes. Individual layers of surface skin are removed to reveal a brand-new layer that looks tighter and more youthful.

Hair Removal – Laser hair removal has been around for several decades now. There have been advancements in the technology which provide better results and less downtime than 20 years ago.

Pigmented lesions – Lasers can be used to remove and treat pigmented lesions. Lasers that pulsate work best for this kind of procedure. Depending on the type of lesion, the surgeon may select a different kind of laser to perform the treatment.

Tattoo removals – Lasers can also be used to remove the tattoo you got when you were 18 years old. The heat from the laser light breaks down the ink in the tattoo. Your immune system absorbs the small ink particles and breaks them down into harmless by-products.

How Effective Are Lasers?

Lasers are great at surface treatments, but they can only go skin-deep. If a person has poor quality skin (decades of age spots, deep wrinkles, and sun damage), a traditional facelift is the only way results are going to be noticed. Some non-invasive treatments have replaced surgery in younger patients who might not yet be good candidates for surgery. With most people there comes a point in their lives when lasers will simply not be able to provide the results they’re looking for.

You should always consult with a plastic surgeon who has an excellent reputation – as they’ll give you the straight truth. Some doctors and med spas will buy lasers thinking that they are a cure-all. This is where they get into trouble. They didn’t take the time to understand exactly what a laser can and can’t do. Manufacturers will also promise great results that can’t be delivered and may even go as far as paying a celebrity to post pictures on their social media account.

Aesthetic Lasers Versus Traditional Surgeries

When it comes to a patient wanting serious skin-tightening, even sub-cutaneous lasers can’t deliver the same results as a surgical procedure such as a tummy tuck or facelift. Lasers can help prolong the time before a person would need to undergo a surgical procedure to get the results they want.

As time goes by, medical science is making leaps and bounds in the fields of aesthetic lasers. There may come a day when lasers will completely replace facelifts, tummy tucks, and other cosmetic procedures. At this point, lasers can only do so much before the surgeon recommends a facelift or other surgical procedure.

Aesthetic Laser Treatment in Dallas

If you’re interested in learning more about cosmetic lasers or what they can do for you, call us or schedule an appointment. Our offices are continently located within a 15-minute drive of Dallas Love Airport, and we accept new patients from anywhere in the country.