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 May 10, 2010 in Office News
The number of surgical and non-surgical procedures inched toward the 10 million mark in 2009, according to new research from the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, which also reports that almost half of Americans approve of cosmetic plastic surgery – regardless of income. It is clear from my practice that even in a tight economy more people at every income level will consider some type of cosmetic procedure. That’s partly because new innovations have made surgical and non-surgical options less invasive, and safer.
But there remain dangers with any cosmetic procedure – whether it’s an injectable, a filler, a laser treatment or surgery. Although most complications are infrequent or rare, and generally correctible, there are always risks I make patients aware of before undergoing any treatment.
Here are five tips for safer beauty outcomes.
- Check the surgeon’s certifications. Technically any doctor can purchase injectables, fillers and laser machines and perform any cosmetic treatment or surgery. Look for plastic surgeons who are members of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and/or the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.
- Assess the surgeon’s experience. You want someone who has a track record in the procedure you are considering. Question any surgeon who claims to have treated an excessive number of patients in a short time. Learn everything you can about the surgeon, and get references.
- Research the procedure and products that will be used. If it is an injectable, filler or laser, be sure it is approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the procedure you are requesting. Get the name of the product and learn as much as you can about it.
- Engage your surgeon about risks before the procedure. Don’t just sign a patient consent form. It is your right to have a discussion with your surgeon to talk about what “may” go wrong, and to be aware of any complications that may arise.
- Stay the course. Always follow your surgeon’s pre and post-procedure instructions. There may be medicines to avoid, activities to refrain from – get a complete list, read it carefully and don’t be shy about asking any questions.
Not every patient is a good candidate for cosmetic surgical or non-surgical procedures. If your physician tells you that you are not in optimal health for the procedure, take his or her advice.
Posted on April 8, 2010 in Office News
Americans spent $10.5 billion dollars on plastic surgery in 2009, according to the latest statistics from the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. That was down 20 percent from the year before, as the economy took a toll on those opting for cosmetic surgery. That is likely to be reversed in 2010, as personal finances improve.
Based on what we’re seeing in our practice right now, people of all ages are beginning to invest again in their appearance, especially as they work to market themselves in the job world. But cost remains a big issue for many of our patients.
Cost, of course, should be a key variable to weigh in the pursuit of ageless beauty. But how much a procedure costs will vary greatly depending on several factors.
First to have an impact on cost: the area or areas to be treated. If you’re considering liposuction in more than one area, it may be more cost effective to do it on several parts of the body at once, rather than individually. Similarly, the cost is higher for larger body areas. Liposuction of the abdomen, for example, will cost significantly more than liposuction of the outer thigh.
The expertise and experience of the physician is something else you may want to take into account. Although the most expensive surgeon may not be the best, be wary of any surgeon who gives you a quote that is significantly below the average in your geographical area.
The surgeon’s overhead is also something that will have an impact on the cost. So will the amount of time and effort required of the surgeon, the cost of anesthesiologist’s services, as well as operating room and lab fees.
I also warn patients to question certain advertised plastic surgery costs, which may appear low because they only reflect the cost of the procedure itself, not the other costs associated with it, which may also include pre- and post-operative exams, and even corrective surgery, if needed.
In our practice, we have full disclosure when it comes to the cost, and will work with patients to determine the best way for them to pay for their procedures.
Posted on January 31, 2010 in Office News
A study published in the online edition of BMJ (British Medical Journal) supports what we’ve intuitively known for years–looking younger than your age has significant consequences.
At the Robert Zubowski MD Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery in Paramus, NJ, we were especially interested in the research. Nearly 1,800 Danish twins participated with volunteers asked to guess the age of random photos of twins. Researchers following the twins for seven more years, concluded that perceived age seemed to be related to survival, with the younger looking twin living longer. Another finding: a connection between perceived age and physical and cognitive ability.
At the Robert Zubowski MD Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery we believe that looking in the mirror and liking what you see goes a long way in building a healthier, happier, more productive life.
Many times patients arrive at our Paramus NJ center with the idea that they want to make an appearance improvement, but don’t know how to begin the transformation. Our practice coordinator, Ann Carbone, can make suggestions about which procedures can best address your concerns.
Then, during our consultation, I will lay out your options in detail. We’ll go over the pros and cons, any risks or complications, and what you can reasonably expect to accomplish. In addition, before leaving our Paramus NJ center, you will be invited to take a few minutes to watch an informative plastic surgery video.
Many times patients believe that looking younger involves facial features alone. While facial appearance is a major factor, we now have in our armamentarium a number of minimally invasive procedures capable of giving you a more youthful shape as well.
Helping to turn back the hands of time begins with scheduling a consultation. For your appointment, please contact Ann Carbone, our practice coordinator at 201-261-7550.
Posted on January 12, 2010 in Office News
New Year, New You!
Enhancing or maintaining a youthful appearance has always topped the list as one of our favorite new year’s resolutions. Just two weeks into the New Year, we have already received a record number of inquiries.
For those in their 30’s a 40’s, there seems to be a continued interest in smaller, less evasive plastic surgery procedures, which can often produce dramatic results.
If you are considering a procedure, and would like to feel more comfortable about what the results will be, The Robert Zubowski MD Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery in Paramus, New Jersey, offers you an on-line Virtual Makeover tool that lets you see the results of the surgery – right from the comfort of your home.Patients can simply come here to our website, upload their photo, choose any number of procedures and sample the results in seconds.
Patients can see, among other things, what they’ll look like with a facelift, a new nose or fuller lips. They can see before and after images side by side, and all in the privacy of their home. It’s very enlightening, and also a lot of fun. And it’s absolutely free.
(virtual makeover icon goes here)
Check it out for yourself
(URL Link goes here)
If you like what you see, or have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our office or plan for a thorough review of treatment options that are right for you. Happy New Year and here’s to the new you!
Posted on December 14, 2009 in Office News
The number of people having cosmetic plastic surgery has tripled since 1992, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Breast augmentation has increased 53 percent and liposuction 31 percent. Today, plastic surgery is not just for the rich and famous; increasingly it is seen as a common intervention to basically normal bodies.
And the average age of the patients continues to drop. The ASPS reports the average age of patients has dropped from 34 to 17. In 2008, 219,000 cosmetic procedures were performed on patients 13 to 19 years of age, and almost 39,000 were surgical procedures such as nose reshaping, breast lifts, breast augmentation, liposuction and tummy tucks.
More young people are having plastic surgery than ever. In a 2008 study commissioned by the American Society for Aesethic Plastic Surgery, men and women ages 18 to 24 had the highest approval rating for cosmetic surgery.
What used to be reserved for adults and cosmetic purposes, slowly creeped into the world of those under 18. It’s critical that we take extra care with younger patients considering procedures.
All teens still need to undergo a full consultation with a specialist to make sure they are in a good state of physical and mental health before they go under the knife. In some cases, the teen simply isn’t mature enough to handle the potential side effects and risks associated with the surgery, and may not have realistic goals about the outcome.
If you are interested in learning more, schedule a consultation by contacting Anne Carbone at the Robert Zubowski M.D. Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 201-261-7550
Posted on December 9, 2009 in Office News
“Your incredible staff is a testimonial to the phenomenal respect and appreciation you must have for the contributions they make to the Zubowski Center. Having worked all of my life for many bosses, I know that harmony in an office does not occur by chance. As great as you are a surgeon, your personnel provides all of the finishing touches that make your office so different.”
“Thank you so much for your excellent care. The procedure was stress free thanks to all of you. I have recommended your office to many of my friends.”
“Thank you all for being so kind, thoughtful, caring, and warm. I appreciate all of your help. Thank you very much.”
“Thank you so much for your professionalism and care. My SmartLipo session was, if you can believe it, an interesting and comforting experience. The results are more than I expected. You are truly gifted by God. Your staff members are a caring and friendly group of people. You have a patient in me for life. I will refer patients to you whenever possible. Thank you, also, for the beautiful plant. May you and your practice be continually blessed.”
“I just wanted to say a big THANK YOU for the amazing job you did on my surgery. I am so happy with the results. You’ve completely changed my life! And thank you for the flowers. They help brighten my everyday. Again, thank you, thank you, thank you!”
“Thank you for a very gratifying experience. Your expertise and caring was extremely reassuring. Thank you for the precious plant arrangement. It was a pleasure to meet all of you.”
“Thank you for being such a wonderful doctor and person. From the moment I met you, I saw understanding and caring in your eyes. Thank you for taking such good care of me during my surgery. It was an important surgery to me both physically and psychologically and you treated both with a plethora of knowledge and understanding. Thank you for your expertise, skill, and for all you did to make my surgery so successful.”
“I just want to say that everyone working for Dr. Zubowski is wonderful and so caring. Thank you so much for taking such great care of me!!”
“With the amazing skills and talent that Dr. Zubowski possesses, he has changed my life in the most positive way imaginable. There are not enough words of gratitude that I can express to you. Thank you so much for making my life happier than I ever thought possible.”
Posted on December 1, 2009 in Office News
Plastic Surgeons Oppose Proposed Cosmetic Surgery Tax Say It Discriminates Against Patients Marks First Time Country to Levy Tax on Patients for Medical Procedures
This week, democratic leaders in the Senate unveiled their proposal for overhauling the health care system, which included a new 5% tax on elective cosmetic procedures. Senate Democrats argue that the tax, which was a surprise addition to the sweeping 2,074-page bill, will generate $5.8 billion over the next 10 years to be put towards the bill’s estimated $849 billion price tag. However, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) oppose this tax as discriminatory, arbitrary and ineffective.
What’s at stake? This is a discriminatory tax. According to the Aesthetic Society Annual Statistics, 91% of all cosmetic procedures are requested by women . This will not have considerable consequences on the wealthiest patients but, as usual, affects the middle class. Working women, soccer moms, and scores of others who carefully save and budget to improve their appearance and self esteem will be penalized for doing so. Procedures such as breast reduction that have been cited in the literature for improving self esteem and quality of life would be taxed as well. This provision places physicians in the role of tax collector and holds physicians liable should an individual fail or refuse to pay the tax. Is that the relationship you want with your medical provider?
Medical care should not be used as a tool to fix broken finances. As doctors our first concern always needs to be patient health and safety.
Please help us stop this silly and penetrative tax. To find your State Senator please click here: http://www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm We urge you to personally inform the government that you are against this tax – together we can fight for your right to no government interference in medical care and stop this discriminatory measure against women!
Posted on September 29, 2009 in Office News
Patients considering facial cosmetic surgery can now experience a greater comfort level with their decision. The Robert Zubowski MD Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery in Paramus, New Jersey, is pleased to introduce a new Virtual Makeover tool that lets you see the results of the surgery before you undergo the procedure.
In this economy, many people are looking for a competitive edge in the workplace, and looking better can go a long way. Yet, many patients are reluctant to go ahead with cosmetic surgery. They are not necessarily put off by the cost , but because they may be nervous about what they will look like after the surgery is complete. Our new virtual makeover tool takes care of that issue. Patients can simply go to our website,
www.drzubowski.com,
upload their photo, choose any number of procedures and sample the results in seconds.
Patients can see, among other things, what they’ll look like with a facelift, a new nose or fuller lips. They can see before and after images side by side, and all in the privacy of their home. It’s very enlightening, and also a lot of fun. And it’s absolutely free.
(Virtual Makeover image link goes here)
Check it out for yourself:
(URL link goes here)
If you like what you see, or have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our office. The next step may be to learn more at our next complimentary aesthetic seminar September 26th, where you can visit our center, meet us and learn more about what we do to make sure you know what to expect.
Posted on August 20, 2009 in Office News
More than one hundred thousand women undergo face lift, abdominoplasty, and breast reduction surgery each year. And while the temporary discomforts of a procedure have long been the price to pay for beauty, new cutting-edge technology, now available at our center, is changing all of that.
The new surgical device is called the PlasmaBlade. It not only causes less bleeding by 60 percent, but patients have fewer bruises and less discomfort. The Robert Zubowski MD Center for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery is one of the few plastic surgery centers in New Jersey to use this innovative surgical device.
Our patients are experiencing less swelling and bruising than those patients who underwent a traditional facelift, abdominoplasty, and breast reduction — and better outcomes overall.
If anyone is interested in learning more about the PlasmaBlade, I would be happy to answer any of your questions, right here in the comment section of our blog.
(Plasma Blade image link goes here)
