Posted on February 4, 2012 in Breast, Dr. Zubowski
REMEMBER, EARLY DETECTION HELPS SAVE LIVES Be sure you and your loved ones follow the recommended guidelines from the American Cancer Society for early detection of breast cancer. If there is a history of breast cancer in your family consult your doctor on the need to begin these steps at an earlier age. Women should know how their breasts normally look and feel and report any breast change promptly to their health care providers. Yearly mammograms with a clinical breast exam are recommended starting at age 40 and continuing for as long as woman is in good health. Clinical breast exam (CBE) should be part of a periodic health exam, about every 3 years for women in their 20s and 30s. Breast self-exam (BSE) is an option for women starting in their 20s. Women at high risk (greater than 20% lifetime risk) should get an MRI and a mammogram every year. Yearly MRI screening is not recommended for women of average risk of breast cancer.
IMPORTANT FACTS ABOUT BREAST CANCER IN THE U.S. A woman has a 1 in 8 chance of developing breast cancer in her lifetime. Every 3 minutes, there is a new diagnosis of invasive breast cancer. Approximately 230,480 women and 2,140 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year. Every 13 minutes, a life is lost to breast cancer. 39,520 women and 450 men in the U.S. will die from the disease annually. The National Cancer Institute estimates that approximately 2.6 million U.S. women with a history of breast cancer are living today, more than half of whom were diagnosed less than 10 years earlier. Most of these individuals were cancer-free, while others still had evidence of cancer and may still be undergoing treatment. There are more than 250,000 women under the age of 40 in the U.S living with breast cancer, and over 11,000 will be diagnosed this year. White, non-Hispanic women are more likely to develop breast cancer but African-American women are more likely to die from it. Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Hispanic women.
MEN GET BREAST CANCER, TOO Survival for men with breast cancer is similar to survival for women, when their stage of diagnosis is the same. Men at any age may develop breast cancer, but it is usually found in men between 60 and 70 years of age. Male breast cancer makes up less than 1% of all cases of breast cancer. Male breast cancer is sometimes caused by inherited gene mutations, and a family history of breast cancer can increase a man’s risk.
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Posted on January 20, 2012 in Breast, Breast Implants
When I began my plastic surgery practice more than 25 years ago it became evident in that first year alone that one of my sub-specialties would be breast augmentation. I was regularly performing them, using either saline or silicone implants. I was among a selected group of cosmetic surgeons able to provide silicone implants, not only to cancer reconstruction patients, but to qualified cosmetic patients as part of the silicone clinical trials.
Today breast augmentation continues to be one of the most frequently performed surgical procedures at the Robert Zubowski MD Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery inParamus,NJ, and each year we’re finding that our patients are requesting it in swelling numbers.
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), one of the many professional organizations to which I am proud to say I am a member, 296,000 breast augmentations were performed nationally in 2010, a 2 percent increase over the previous year. In fact, breast augmentation is first among the top five cosmetic surgical procedures, followed by rhinoplasty, blepharoplasty, liposuction, and abdominoplasty.
Advanced technologies and techniques now provide patients with better products yielding a more natural result, along with faster healing. Now that the FDA has approved silicone implants for any woman seeking breast augmentation, everyone has more choices. Since silicone implants impart a more natural feel over saline implants we’re finding that in our practice most patients are choosing silicone. Our extensive experience in performing the procedure has prepared us to offer our patients the guidance they deserve when choosing their implants.
If you are considering breast augmentation now is an ideal time to schedule a consultation. Many women schedule their augmentation during the winter to be ready for their summer holidays in the sun. Our practice manager, Ann Carbone, will be happy to set up your consultation.
Posted on January 16, 2012 in Breast
Sagging is a normal part of how the body changes. And while some may say that saggy breasts are the result of weight gain and loss and pregnancy, it’s really breast involution(when the milk producing glands shrink and start to shut down) coupled with these body changes that causes the breasts to drop.
Age has something to do with sagging breasts, but is not as much of a factor as pregnancy and genetics are.
Breasts do not have muscle, but rather suspensory ligaments and tissue. When the cooper’s ligaments, which suspend the breast tissue, get stretched out, they can’t recoil and support is lost. And if the skin gets stretched, the dermis can be damaged (and unable to contract back), which is why stretch marks appear.
Losing weight can also cause the breasts to sag since volume is lost. There is a lot of fat in the breast and if you tend to lose weight in your breasts, you will probably lose volume too. It is also believed that the larger the breasts, the more quickly and noticeable your sagging will be.
Posted on October 11, 2011 in Body, Breast, Dr. Zubowski, Face, Latest News, Uncategorized
I believe in leaving no stone unturned when investigating the best ways to insure my patients’ comfort while under my care. During more than 25 years in practice I’ve discovered that sensibly melding the best elements of homeopathic, nutritional health and traditional medicine provides patients with optimum healing benefits.
At the Robert Zubowski MD Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery in Paramus, NJ, we routinely include lymphatic drainage massages post-surgery in our treatment plan for all surgery patients. These massages promote faster recovery. In preparation for any surgery we also start patients on a course of arnica and bromelain therapy. These homeopathic herbal remedies work to soothe wound pains and reduce swelling while simultaneously stimulate efficient healing.
Oftentimes I’ll remind my patients once they are scheduled for surgery that they are what they eat and never more so as the countdown begins. Studies have confirmed that by eating certain foods you may decrease your downtime after surgery. For example, everyone knows that eating fruit is good for you. But did you know that pineapple, which contains the enzyme bromelain, works naturally on your system as an anti-inflammatory? A study in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery indicates that simply by following a regimen combining specific nutrients such as bromelain, vitamin C, rutin and grapeseed extract, you may reduce your recovery time by 17 percent. In addition, eating just one cup of pineapple provides 80 percent of your daily manganese needs. Manganese helps with the healing of wounds by stimulating the production of new cartilage and collagen.
In addition to being a tasty treat, fresh pineapple, as well as fresh papaya, have been shown to help reduce swelling and bruising after surgery. Both of these tropical fruits contain a natural enzyme called papain.
Overall, maintaining a well balanced diet that’s high in protein aids in tissue repair. Finally, don’t forget to drink plenty of water and you’ll be helping yourself to a smoother recovery.
If you have any questions or would like more information about any of our services or procedures, please contact Ann Carbone, our Practice Manager.
Posted on August 22, 2011 in Breast Reduction, Dr. Zubowski, Eyelid Surgery, Face, Facelift, Gynecomastia, Latest News, Liposuction, Non Surgical Procedures
There’s no doubt about it: most men really enjoy checking out a pretty face with a matching beautiful body as she passes by. Women were the first to realize that if nature didn’t give them all that they wanted aesthetically, they could boost their appeal considerably through plastic surgery. Not shy about how they have come by their new found beauty, many have graciously referred new patients to the Robert Zubowski MD Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery in Paramus,
NJ.
Men, on the other hand, were typically reluctant to give cosmetic surgery a try. Today, however, that attitude is quickly changing, as they see for themselves what it has done to raise the self-confidence of their girlfriends, wives and mothers. I speculate that another reason is that they refuse to be squeezed out of the job market as older Americans delay retirement and continue to compete
with their younger colleagues.
According to a recent article in the Wall Street Journal that quoted statistics provided by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, 1.1 million men underwent some sort of cosmetic procedure last year and that number is climbing.
My practice at the Robert Zubowski MD Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery continues to reflect what similar centers are reporting across the nation.
So exactly what procedures are men choosing? In my practice the number one request remains a facelift; next is liposuctiion, followed by breast reduction or gynecomastic surgery. Older men often want eyelid surgery as well. And, as with women, I’m finding that men who are considering their first cosmetic intervention oftentimes start out with soft tissue fillers like Restylane® or Radiesse®, or they may just want to touch up their forehead furrows or the creases known as crow’s feet at the corners of the eyes with a temporary, but
very effective quick fix, Botox®.
If you have a favorite man who would like to enjoy the benefits of cosmetic intervention or if you are that special someone, please don’t hesitate to contact Ann Carbone, our Practice Administrator, for more information, and to set up a consultation.
Posted on March 21, 2011 in Body, Botox, Breast, Breast Implants, Breast Reduction, Brow Lift, Dr. Zubowski, Eyelid Surgery, Face, Facelift, Fat Injections, Gynecomastia, Rhinoplasty
Oftentimes people suffer the worst situations but use them to make a change that positively impacts on their self-esteem, giving them the confidence to start over. No example could be stronger than the patients who arrive at my office with a heavy heart because of a failed marriage, a dissolved business partnership, getting a pink slip, or losing a loved one. Instead of dwelling on their misfortunes, they choose to give themselves a fresh start that will improve their looks—and their outlook. The first step? A consultation at the Robert Zubowski MD Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, in Paramus, NJ.
These patients don’t want a timid makeover. Some have thought about cosmetic enhancement for years without moving forward.
A number of my female Breakup Makeover patients typically request breast surgery. Depending upon what they don’t like about their breasts, they may choose breast augmentation surgery, a breast reduction, and/or a breast lift (mastopexy).
More mature men and women want to see significant facial improvement, and request a traditional facelift which addresses the mid-face and neck regions. Combined with eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) and perhaps a touch of Botox® in the forehead area and at the corners of the eyes, these procedures can erase 10 to 15 years from one’s face.
Finally, at the Robert Zubowski MD Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, many of these “fresh start” individuals want to have movie star bodies. Fortunately, today, using the latest liposuction techniques in a cautious, safe and skilled manner, we can give them the well-proportioned physique that dieting and exercise, no matter how stringently followed, can’t achieve.
For more information on how we can custom design your Breakup Makeover to lighten your step—and your heart–please contact Ann Carbone, our Practice Administrator. I’m certain that you will find her most helpful in guiding you.
Posted on February 1, 2011 in Body, Botox, Breast, Breast Implants, Breast Reduction, Brow Lift, Dr. Zubowski, Face, Facelift, Liposuction, Tummy Tuck
One reason I chose to specialize in plastic surgery was my belief that aesthetic enhancements significantly improve my patients’ quality of life.
Continuous advances in plastic surgery create real benefits for patients. Today, the results are more predictable, involve less post-operative discomfort, and more rapidly return patients to their regular routines.
Even with improved techniques, some candidates still reject plastic surgery. For them, we are able to offer a host of injectables and Botox® that achieve gratifying results. We’re also using a number of liposuction applications that sculpt the body, face and neck. Liposuction procedures can be accomplished without general anesthetic in our office procedure rooms. By the way, for your safety and convenience, the majority of our surgeries occur at Surgicenter, our fully accredited surgery suite located at the Robert Zubowski MD Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery in Paramus, NJ.
Many of my patients have asked my opinion of bridalplasty (multiple pre-wedding day aesthetic procedures), a concept popularized by a TV show where brides-to-be compete for their wish lists of plastic surgery procedures. Their goal is to walk down the aisle looking like the girl of their own dreams. It is my genuine belief that any form of cosmetic enhancement: invasive, non-invasive, minimally invasive, or even skin treatments, should not be undertaken lightly. Competing to win plastic surgery enhancements trivializes the procedures and sends the wrong message.
At the Robert Zubowski MD Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery I have in-depth discussions with all patients about their aesthetic goals and any risks involved. Their psychological reasons for effecting a change must be sound. Making subtle changes to produce a natural result that will improve a person’s self-esteem is my primary goal.
If you’d like to present yourself in the best light on any day with our help, please contact Ann Carbone, our Practice Administrator.
Posted on October 1, 2010 in Body, Breast, Dr. Zubowski, Face
When we designed the Robert Zubowski MD Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery in Paramus, NJ, I had my architects include a state-of-the-art surgery center to offer my patients the convenience and comfort of in-house surgery. Today, nearly all of my surgeries are performed at the Surgicenter.
Having a surgical facility integral with the Center affords significant benefits. First, I have full control of the surgical environment as well as the medical professionals with whom I work. I employ a professional staff of board certified anesthesiologists, registered nurses, and technicians who specialize in plastic surgery cases. Since these same individuals regularly work with me, and are accustomed to each other’s professional styles, we form a highly efficient working team.
For those patients who may want or need an overnight post-op stay we also have accommodations that reflect the ambiance of a luxury hotel suite. Patients are monitored by their own private duty registered nurse.
Is having your surgery performed in such an environment right for you? For most people undergoing plastic surgery I would say yes, with a few caveats. Your plastic surgeon needs to be board-certified. In addition to being board certified in plastic surgery, I am also board-certified in general surgery, and have more than 25 years of experience in plastic surgery. Just as important is your anesthesiologist who, in my opinion, also must be board-certified. Before deciding where your surgery is to be performed you should satisfy yourself about the pristine condition of the in-house operating arena by simply requesting a quick tour.
In my practice typically I will perform procedures on patients with complicated medical conditions, or planning extensive multiple procedures in a hospital setting, generally at The Valley Hospital in Ridgewood, NJ.
For more information or to schedule a tour of our center and Surgicenter please contact our Practice Manager, Ann Carbone.
Posted on September 15, 2010 in Body, Botox, Breast, Dr. Zubowski, Face, Facelift, Laser Hair Removal, Liposuction, Media Appearances, Microdermabrasion, Non Surgical Procedures, Office News, Tummy Tuck
Summer has come to a close and I am looking ahead to the holiday seasons. In fact, some of my patients have come up with a novel way to insure that they will be at their personal best for the upcoming rounds of parties, meetings and events. They’re giving the love of their lives (and themselves) a cosmetic enhancement makeover.
At the Robert Zubowski MD Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, we’ve designed a Couple’s Refresher that includes the cosmetic enhancement procedure which each partner desires. Before scheduling your Couple’s Rejuvenation consultation, it’s important to discuss with your partner your desire to provide this long lasting gift of self-improvement and empowerment, along with gauging his or her enthusiasm for this project.
The process moves forward with a dual patient consultation, during which we’ll discuss the advantages of couples getting procedures within months of each other, including a discounted surgery rate. I’ll explain what each patient can realistically expect from their respective procedures. We will stagger the surgeries so that while one partner is healing the other provides post-surgical home care and later can reverse roles. The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) recommends that anyone considering an aesthetic surgery procedure carefully weigh not only the benefits, but the risks of the procedure as well. Since we welcomed our very first patient through our doors nearly 25 years ago, we routinely go over these two critical factors at every initial consultation at our Paramus NJ center.
At the Robert Zubowski MD Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery we believe that an educated patient is oftentimes the most satisfied. That’s why we have created a packet of information relevant to the procedures that interest you. You will receive this informative material prior to your initial consultation.
To learn more about our Couple’s Rejuvenation program or to schedule a consultation, please contact our Practice Administrator, Ann Carbone at 201 261-7550.
Posted on February 23, 2010 in Breast, Breast Reduction
Breast reduction surgery is one of the top five reconstructive procedures in the U.S. according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. It can have a dramatic effect on the lives of women who are embarrassed by the large size of their breasts as well as those who have physical discomfort because of them.
Like many plastic surgery options, the specific technique selected for breast reduction will depend on individual factors, but the most common method involves making incisions, and removing excess breast tissue, fat and skin through them. While it is impossible to perform a breast reduction safely without any residual scarring, at our office we are careful to help minimize scarring by making the smallest incisions possible and removing the majority of excess breast fat through liposuction.
You may be a good candidate for breast reduction if:
- Your breasts are too large in proportion to your body frame
- You have back, neck or should pain caused by the weight of your breasts
- One breast is larger than the other
- You are embarrassed by the size of your breasts, and the attention they get
- Your breast size restricts your ability to perform certain physical tasks and/or exercise
If you are considering breast reduction surgery, the first step is a detailed consultation. At our office, we will ask about your desired breast size as well as anything else about your breasts that you would like to be improved. We evaluate by taking measurements as well as photographs. The size and shape of our breasts, the quality of your skin, and the placement of the nipples and areolas are carefully evaluated before we determine the exact surgical procedure that will be used.
Breast reduction can be performed at any age but I usually recommend waiting until breast development has stopped. Childbirth and breast feeding can also have significant effects on the size and shape of breasts, so that is also something I routinely discuss with patients who may want to undergo the procedure before having children. If someone also plans on losing a significant amount of weight, I may recommend putting off breast reduction surgery until that weight goal is achieved since breasts sometimes become smaller with weight loss.
