Posted on September 5, 2010 in Body, Dr. Zubowski, Latest News, Non Surgical Procedures, Office News
We’re nearly three-quarters through 2010, and cosmetic procedures continue to capture the imaginations of men and women who want to jump start their careers, improve their relationships, or begin dating again.
A recent survey of over 2,000 adults by Harris Interactive for the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), reports that young mothers were likely to undergo a body makeover, and Baby Boomers want to fight age-related physical changes with Botox® and fillers. The survey revealed that interest in cosmetic procedures is soaring. This mirrors our own experiences at the Robert Zubowski MD Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery in Paramus, NJ.
Many patients want big changes that “refresh” their image without shouting “cosmetic surgery.” I advise them that significant improvements can only be accomplished through surgery. In the Harris survey almost 56% would choose a tummy tuck; 23% would opt for liposuction, and 13% would request a facelift. Those deeply committed to making significant changes are undaunted by recovery time. In fact, at my Paramus NJ center, young mothers often request a “Mommy Makeover”, a combination of procedures that includes breast enhancement, a tummy tuck, and oftentimes, a little liposuction.
Additionally, according to the data released by the ASPA, minimally invasive procedures such as Botox and injectable fillers have doubled since 2000. These are excellent solutions for people who lack the patience or time to undergo a recuperative period, but still want to erase facial wrinkles.
Looking forward to 2011, I believe patients will continue to request major cosmetic interventions such as breast surgeries, eyelid surgeries, facelifts and body contouring. However, there will always be those individuals who are perfectly satisfied with the results of Botox and injectable fillers. These minimally invasive procedures are particularly attractive to this group of patients, given the fact that they are also avoiding surgery.
To explore the right cosmetic intervention for you, please contact our Practice Administrator, Anne Carbone. She can schedule your private consultation to discuss your options.
Posted on June 9, 2010 in Botox, Face, Latest News, Non Surgical Procedures
Many teens undergo treatment with Botox to prevent wrinkles down the road. One widely quoted teen who had her first Botox injection at age 15, said she did it because she didn’t want to look “haggard and ugly” by the time she was 25. It’s definitely time for a reality check: Botox is not a preventative treatment but a corrective one. Both parents and teens need to recognize this.
In addition to the fact that most of these teens are getting Botox injections with misguided expectations, there’s a big problem with their obsession for looking better than everyone else, and peer pressure. As more teens undergo these treatments, they think it’s the cool thing to do, and they feel they have to do it in order to fit in. These teens don’t have wrinkle issues – they have low self esteem – and Botox is not going to solve their problem in the long run.”
There is a place for plastic surgery for young people in certain circumstances. Botox injections for wrinkles in most young people is unwarranted and potentially dangerous.
Posted on May 5, 2010 in Botox, Face, Non Surgical Procedures, Rhinoplasty
Injectables have become quite the rage lately – and not just for getting rid of wrinkles. A growing number of my patients are asking about injectables to fix their imperfect noses. They have their plusses, but are only appropriate for certain flaws.
Non-surgical nose jobs use a number of different types of injectables, including Botox and Restylane, to help reduce minimal irregularities in the nose. Some of the injectables have only a temporary effect, while others will last longer. That’s good in case the patient doesn’t like the outcome. The downside is that injectables have to be repeated to maintain the desired effect. In some cases, they will last for only a few months, and that can be costly and inconvenient. (more)
Injectables are great to “test drive” a new look. They can help fix a low wide bridge, or an over-prominent tip of the nose; they can also help smooth out bumps in some patients. But Injectables will not straighten out a crooked nose, nor will they lift a droopy tip, and most important for some patients, they will not resolve any breathing or snoring problems.
Rhinoplasties – or nose jobs — will remain the gold standard of fixing many noses until researches come up with injectables that are more permanent. In our offices, we have made many advances in rhinoplasties, and can often correct some flaws by simply adding or removing just a little bit of cartilage. We don’t always recommend a full rhinoplasty anymore. We look at the problem, and do what we can to create a nose that makes the whole face look better.
Posted on February 12, 2010 in Microdermabrasion, Non Surgical Procedures
Microdermabrasion – What to Expect from Non-Surgical Cosmetic Treatments
Microdermabrasion is a process of sloughing off dead layers of skin by non-allergenic microcrystals. No chemicals are used in microdermabrasion. It is a non-invasive procedure accomplished by polishing facial skin with a spray of the microcrystals. Microdermabrasion is a quick and painless method of revealing healthy skin underneath damaged outer layers. It is a popular form of cosmetic enhancement. Microdermabrasion takes approximately 30 to 60 minutes by a cosmetic dermatologist or in an aesthetic clinic.
Microdermabrasion is suitable for adults who have minor skin imperfections, such as fine lines, uneven pigmentation, poor skin texture or oily skin, enlarged or clogged pores, and mild acne scarring. Patients should be in good health and avoid tanning or waxing for two weeks prior to the procedure.
Microdermabrasion will not eliminate deep scarring, wrinkles, or lines. Patients with an autoimmune condition, active rosacea, facial warts, lesions, herpes, unstable diabetes, or who are pregnant are not viable candidates for microdermabrasion. In addition, candidates who have undergone recent cosmetic facial plastic surgery procedures, including facelift and eyelid surgery, should wait three weeks before microdermabrasion.
Microdermabrasion by a qualified plastic surgeon is important to negate possible negative consequences. An inexperienced or unqualified skin care professional poses potential infection from unsanitary equipment, skin perforation by crystals applied at too high an intensity or eye damage from stray crystals.
Microdermasbrasion is performed with a hand held device that sprays the crystals against the skin. A vacuum effect removes the crystals and dead skin. The removal of dead skin encourages new skin layers to grow thicker and produce collagen and elastin. Usually 5 to 12 treatments at three week intervals are needed to realize optimum results.
Sun exposure should be avoided and hydrating facial cream applied to reduce tenderness from microdermabrasion treatment. A pink or red hue for the first couple of days is normal. Makeup is discouraged until the skin has healed. Results are immediate although a full course of treatments is needed before ideal results of improved color, tone, elimination of fine lines, and mild acne scars are fully apparent.
Posted on February 11, 2010 in Laser Hair Removal, Non Surgical Procedures
Laser Hair Removal – Who is an ideal candidate?
It seems that women are forever to be judged, not only by men but by other women. For instance, if a woman has excess hair growing from one part of her body, she may be judged by both men and women. The simple fact of the matter is, however, that many women have excess hair growing in places that they would prefer it didn’t. This excess hair can easily be taken care of, though, thanks to laser hair removal.
Laser hair removal is a treatment that is performed in a cosmetic surgeon’s office or a cosmetic laser center. It is a treatment that uses lasers to kill the hair follicle, ensuring that the hair does not grow back again. While it may take a few treatments to work properly, this method of hair removal is probably the best way to get rid of unwanted hair once and for all.
There are many people who are great candidates for laser hair removal, as it is a very safe procedure to have done. The best candidate for this procedure, according to cosmetic surgeons, is someone who has light skin and dark hair. This is because they want to ensure that the laser sees the hair without seeing the skin. If you have any pigmentation in the hair that is going to be removed at all, you are a good candidate for laser hair removal.
Candidates who perhaps may not be ideal for this procedure include people who have white or very blonde hair. It is difficult for the laser to sense where the hair is and where the skin is. And it is also not recommended for people who are trying to get rid of hair around their eyes, such as a unibrow. These people would do better with electrolysis or waxing. Basically, anyone who has some pigmentation to their hair and who has realistic expectations for the outcome of the procedure can be a great candidate for laser hair removal. Before you make a final determination, make sure you speak with a cosmetic surgeon about laser hair removal to see if you are a good candidate.
Posted on December 26, 2009 in Non Surgical Procedures, Skin Care
If you’ve blamed your ancestors for your facial wrinkles, think again. At New Jersey’s Robert Zubowski MD Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery we’ve learned that chronic stress like divorce, or taking antidepressants, even weight change, can also promote aging. A study revealed this in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery®, the official medical journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
The study followed several identical twins who you would expect to age at the same rate. The research showed that a divorced twin looked two years older than his or her married, single or widowed sibling. Other contributors included the use of antidepressants and weight. In those twins less than 40 years old, the heavier twin was perceived to be older. Over 40, the heavier twin looked younger. Researchers noted that losing abnormal amounts of weight not only has unhealthy consequences, but promotes facial aging.
At the Robert Zubowski MD Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, we continually introduce programs to help you look your best. While regular facial massages from our expert massage therapists may not eliminate all your wrinkle producing stressors, it’s a good start. At our Paramus, NJ center we believe a good skincare program, supported by our medical grade skincare products, fosters a refreshed appearance. We also offer Botox®, and the most effective, longer lasting facial fillers for non-invasive facial rejuvenation. And, when surgery is the best solution to reverse your facial aging, we can provide you with a customized plan.
We hold regular complimentary Saturday breakfast seminars, where you can explore options. Pre-registration is essential since attendance is limited. To learn about how we can help you “turn back the hands of time” and for the date and time of our next seminar, please contact Ann Carbone, our Paramus, NJ Practice Coordinator at 201-261-7550.
Posted on September 22, 2009 in Botox, Non Surgical Procedures
While most respected plastic surgeons will tell you that a
blepharoplasty, or cosmetic eyelid surgery, is the gold standard for eye rejuvenation, there are other non-surgical alternatives that, for some patients, provide impressive, long lasting results.
Patients at the Robert Zubowski MD Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery often remark that signs of facial aging are first noticeable around their eyes. Typically, they notice skin becoming thinner and less elastic, descending brows, or perhaps receding or enlarged upper eyelids. Sometimes the bones around the eyes appear more prominent as well. For patients who are beginning to show these early signs but are not ready for eyelid surgery, or for patients who dismiss surgery altogether, injectable fillers and Botox® may be the answer.
At our Paramus, NJ center many of our patients elect to be treated for their aging eyes with certain hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers: Juvéderm® and Restylane®. They both work extremely well in the tear trough area, or hollow under the eyes. We’re also using Botox® to erase crow’s feet, smooth frown lines at the brow, and treat related facial lines.
We’ve been using HA fillers at our Paramus NJ center since 2005, soon after the first one received FDA approval. For an in-depth look at HA fillers as related to improving the look of aging eyes, there’s an interesting article in the August 2009 issue of the Aesthetic Surgery Journal.
Today at the Robert Zubowski MD Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery we are providing total eye rejuvenation which can include a take-home treatment, Latisse®, to give luxurious thicker, longer and darker lashes.
All of the treatments can last up to nine months, and without any downtime or uncomfortable recuperation. They are wildly popular. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, please contact Ann Carbone, our practice manager.
Posted on August 26, 2009 in Non Surgical Procedures
For patients interested in tightening facial and abdominal skin without the discomfort and downtime associated with invasive plastic surgery procedures like facelift and tummy tuck, The Robert Zubowski MD Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery in Paramus, New Jersey is pleased to introduce the new Sciton SkinTyte skin firming and tightening procedure.
This new revolutionary, non surgical skin tightening treatment that increases skin firmness – without invasive cosmetic surgery — is now available at our office.
(image of doctor aligned right)
Sciton SkinTyte, thermally targets dermal regions in the skin, initiating the body’s natural healing process and prompting the production of collagen. It’s very effective for areas of the body where gravity and age have taken a toll and is most commonly used to treat loose, sagging skin on the abdomen, jowls and neck. With minimal down time and discomfort, this skin firming treatment is ideal for anyone seeking a less invasive (and more cost-effective) way to tighten loose skin along the neck, jaw line, and stomach.
SkinTyte not only activates collagen during the procedure but, as the body continues to heal, collagen continues to be produced and skin becomes progressively firmer.
If you are interested in learning more, please do not hesitate to contact our office.
Posted on June 18, 2009 in Botox, Non Surgical Procedures
The success of Botox® mirrors the efficacy of the injectable itself. In the seven years since the FDA approved it for treating frown lines Botox Cosmetic have become household words among those seeking to erase wrinkling between the eyebrows, forehead lines, and crow’s feet. Our Paramus NJ practice at the Robert Zubowski MD Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery reflects the latest survey on Botox® Cosmetic by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS).
At our New Jersey plastic and reconstructive surgery practice, Botox® Cosmetic continues to be our most frequently requested minimally invasive procedure. Botox works by restricting muscle action, evoking a relaxation response when injected into a targeted muscle. Botox® is extremely effective in soothing skin creases and wrinkles in the area requiring cosmetic intervention. Botox® treatment carries no downtime, and over the three to six months post-treatment, patients realize even greater results. Since the effects are transitory Botox® sessions are typically required no sooner than every three to six months.We, at our New Jersey practice, like countless plastic surgery centers across the U.S. have discovered that Botox® has many virtues with few minor side effects (transitory bruising and numbness at the injection site). Rarely, immunity to Botox’s advantageous effects can occur if used more frequently than prescribed. However, at the Robert Zubowski MD Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery of New Jersey, none of our patients have experienced this problem. We credit these outcomes with out diligence in following recommended treatment guidelines.
In addition to cosmetic applications Botox is used to treat axillary hyperhidrosis( excessive sweating of the hands, feet, and/or under the arms), and drooping of the eyelids and corners of the mouth. In June 2009 the FDA approved Dysport (Reloxin), a cosmetic injectable alternative to Botox. It’s expected to be available this summer.
For information on this and other service please contact us at the Paramus office of the Robert Zubowski MD Center for Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery 201-261-7550.
Posted on August 12, 2008 in Botox, Non Surgical Procedures
Botox®, a purified protein that binds to a muscle’s nerve endings, causes a relaxation response to soften wrinkles. This injectable continues to enjoy enormous popularity as a temporary solution to the early signs of facial aging. “We’ve been using it since it was first approved by the FDA for cosmetic purposes,” says Robert Zubowski, MD.
Botox can soften forehead lines, frown lines, and do something that surgery alone can not accomplish: erase crow’s feet. “The procedure takes just a few minutes in the office, is relatively painless, and for three to six months afterwards, patients will enjoy its results.” Botox injections may be safely repeated indefinitely.
At The Robert Zubowski M.D. Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Botox is acquired from the highly reputable proprietary manufacturer, Allergan. Prior to undergoing any medical procedures, especially Botox, Dr. Zubowski recommends that patients verify both the credentials and the reputation of the administering physician. “It makes sense to get a referral from someone whose opinion you trust before you schedule a Botox session. We can achieve significant improvement, even for deep wrinkles. However, on occasion, some of these wrinkles may still be present.” Dr. Zubowski may then suggest another kind of injectable called a filler to alleviate any residual crease.
Radiesse® is a safe, FDA-approved dermal filler that restores a natural, long lasting, youthful look by restoring facial volume as well as correcting smile lines, nasolabial folds and wrinkles around the nose and mouth. It is made of unique calcium-based microspheres suspended in a natural gel that is injected into the skin through a simple, safe, and minimally invasive procedure. The results are immediate and may last a year or more in many patients. No pre-testing is necessary and a single in-office session may accomplish the patient’s goals.
Sometimes a combination of non-invasive treatments can significantly and quickly rejuvenate an aging face. Botox and a filler, such as Radiesse®, Restylane®, Juvederm, or collagen, followed by either a microdermabrasion session, a glycolic peel, or a photofacial treatment can manage minimal age related facial changes and postpone surgery for some individuals.
