safe cosmetic surgery « Cosmetic, Facial & Eye Plastic Surgery Blog

November 1, 2011

Even the Wall Street Journal fails to understand how cosmetic surgeons are trained!

Filed under: Cosmetic Surgery,Dr. Steinsapir,facial cosmetic surgery,safe cosmetic surgery — Tags: Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Steinsapir, facelift in los angeles, los angeles cosmetic surgeon, Nip and Tuck, WSJ cosmetic surgery article — admin @ 1:53 pm

The message that one should only go to a board certified plastic surgeon is the public relations message of general plastic surgeons. While there are many excellent skills that general plastic surgeons offer, it is essential to understand that very few of these surgeons were trained to perform cosmetic surgery in their plastic surgery residency. Additionally numerous surgical subspecialties offer high quality cosmetic surgery and were very extensively trained in these procedures in residency and fellowship programs. In many cases, the subspecialist cosmetic surgeon offers a level of service that is better than what can be obtained from the majority of general plastic surgeons. It is my opinion that general plastic surgeons betrayed their public trust by not doing more to bring up the standard of care in cosmetic surgery and for so long failing to properly train their resident surgeons to properly perform cosmetic surgery. For this reason, the public is often much safer getting their cosmetic surgical care from the subspeciality cosmetic surgeon and not a general plastic surgeon. The Wall Street Journal just published an article that completely ignored this issue. Here is the letter I sent to the Wall Street Journal.

Dear Editor:

I read Robert Johnson’s article “A Nip and a Tuck” about cosmetic surgery for the 65-plus crowd that appeared in the October 31, 2011 WSJ. The article only mentions a single specialty that offers cosmetic surgery: general plastic surgeons certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Either general plastic surgeons are very good at public relations (they are), or the author was unmotivated to provide readers with a balanced perspective. General plastic surgeons are not the only board certified surgeons who offer safe, high quality cosmetic surgery.

For years general plastic surgeons failed to train their residents for cosmetic surgery. General plastic surgery residency instead focused on broad training in reconstructive general plastic surgery. Despite claims to the contrary, treating a burn is not the same as performing liposuction, a facelift, or an eyelid surgery. This lack of leadership has resulted in a less than ideal standard of care for these elective cosmetic surgeries.

Over the past 40 years, otolaryngologists, ophthalmologists and dermatologists have built excellent fellowship training programs in facial plastic surgery, oculofacial plastic surgery, and dermatologic surgery that provide in-depth training in cosmetic surgery to allow these surgeons to offer cosmetic surgery to the American public that is arguably safer and of better quality than that offered by general plastic surgeons. The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, a non-ACGME board, accredits high quality cosmetic surgery fellowships that are open to a number of surgical specialties including general surgeons, gynecologists, oral maxillofacial surgeons, as well as general plastic surgeons. These highly trained specialists provide a quality alternative to board certified general plastic surgeons who lack formal training in cosmetic surgery. It is now well accepted that fellowship trained dermatologists practicing liposuction are much less likely to be sued for liposuction malpractice than general plastic surgeons to cite just one example.

It is not controversial to state that general plastic surgery residencies do not provide adequate training in cosmetic surgery. Fortunately the field of general plastic surgery has recognized this and now offers a growing number of fellowships in aesthetic surgery for board eligible general plastic surgeons. However, compared to fellowship trained specialists in facial plastic surgery, oculoplastic surgery, dermatologic surgery, and cosmetic surgery; general plastic surgeons still have a ways to go before the public trust in this specialty is truly deserved. Unfortunately readers of Mr. Johnson’s article were left unenlightened about these issues.

Sincerely,

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, M.D., Los Angeles, Ca.

Associate Clinical Professor

Division of Orbital and Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery

Jules Stein Eye Institute

David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA

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October 6, 2011

Can Dr. Steinsapir dissolve the liquid silicone that was injected in my face in Mexico?

Filed under: Cosmetic Surgery,Dr. Steinsapir,facial fillers,Restylane Injections,safe cosmetic surgery — Tags: fixing facial fillers, fixing silicone injections, liquid silicone, medical-grade fillers, safe facial fillers, Silicone oil, silicone oil dangers, silicone oil injections — admin @ 7:20 pm

Silicone oil has only one FDA-approved indication for use―repairing complex retinal detachments. Liquid silicone, also called silicone oil, finds its way into off-label use as a medical-grade facial filler. However, silicone oil has a number of side effects and it is not advisable for this use. Dr. Steinsapir does not recommend getting liquid silicone injections, no matter how much more inexpensive the treatment may be, nor does he perform the procedure. Fixing previous silicone injections is a complicated, involved process, and it is impossible to remove all of the oil. Dr. Steinsapir has treated many patients damaged by these treatments but each situation is unique and a personal assessment is essential to learn what methods might improve your situation.

The perils of liquid silicone

Receiving silicone oil injections in Mexico ( or in the United States at “pumping parties” or from unscrupulous injectors) is a dangerous decision for several reasons. Non-medical injectors are known to use liquid silicone illegally on the black market. Although medical professionals using liquid silicone in an off-label fashion use medical grade material, on the black market the silicone is often not medical grade but rather industrial silicone oil, which was never intended for the human body. There have been deaths from these types of illegal treatments.

Technically, since physicians may use FDA-approved products for non-approved uses, you can legally receive silicone oil treatments as a facial filler; but that doesn’t make it a good idea. Injecting silicone oil into the face and other parts of the body like the buttocks is not a case of careful and thoughtful use. It violates the very oath that every doctor takes to do no harm. Unfortunately a few non-physicians and even physicians continue to use silicone oils this way.

Deaths related to silicone oil injections have been reported. Even small facial treatments into the lip and nasolabial fold over time can result permanent and irreparable facial disfigurement.

Don’t be fooled by the price

When it comes to financing cosmetic procedures, here is the bottom line: if you can’t afford safe, quality treatment from an actual physician (not an assistant, technician, traveling person with unspecified qualifications, the black market, or your own hand), then you are better off without any treatment. Silicone oil injections have too many associated complications, including migration and permanent disfigurement

Instead of automatically assuming you cannot afford legitimate, trustworthy, FDA-approved fillers, consult a bona-fide, fellowship trained cosmetic surgeon to learn about the cost and payment options for a safe, dependable filler. Silicone oil injections are cheap for a reason. Anyone who tells you they are a good cosmetic option is misleading you and omitting the facts.

Fixing facial fillers

Unfortunately, silicone oil is a poor alternative to real hyaluronic acid fillers like Restylane® or Perlane® because it cannot easily be modified after the treatment. The first step in addressing and removing unwanted silicone is to identify the exact source of the injected silicone.

Was it medical grade or industrial silicone oil?
What is the lot number and expiration date?
Where was it manufactured?
Did the injector take precautions and use sterile technique?

Removing silicone is difficult, which is why Dr. Steinsapir believes that it should not be used as a filler material. Once you have identified the above information, the next step is to decide if surgery or some other approach is needed. Silicone oil is permanent and can’t be dissolved so removing it may require invasive surgery. The type and extent of your surgery will depend heavily on the location of the original injections, the type of silicone used, and the amount. The benefit of removing the material must be weighed against the potential complications that might be caused by surgery.

It is important to choose an experienced and knowledgeable surgeon to perform your surgery. Find someone you can trust and who will work with you to find a treatment plan that works for you and your individual situation. Unfortunately, a decision to receive silicone oil in Mexico, or any other black market injector often results in a greater expense in order to have the foreseeable complications addressed. In too many cases, there are no good options. Dr. Steinsapir strongly encourages anyone considering a black market cosmetic treatment of any kind to take into account the fact that while the initial treatment may be less expensive than a proper visit to a cosmetic surgeon and paying full price for your procedure, the long-term costs of a decision like this far out-weigh the short-term savings.

About Dr. Steinsapir

Dr. Steinsapir is a much sought after oculofacial surgeon. He is an innovator in minimally invasive cosmetic and reconstructive procedures and has invented new methods for treating with BOTOX, Fillers and cutting edge reconstructive eyelid and midface surgery. He specializes in high precision eyelid surgery and is a leader in correcting prior facial and eyelid surgery, including multiple revised cosmetic eyelid reconstructions. He attended medical school at the UCLA and completed ophthalmology residency at The University of Chicago. He is multiple fellowship trained including three years of fellowship training in oculofacial plastic surgery at UCLA, and a two-year cosmetic surgery fellowship in Rancho Mirage. He is widely published and lectures to other surgeons nationally and internationally. He is an associate clinical professor of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the Jules Stein Eye Institute at UCLA. His private practice is located in West Los Angeles, immediately serving the Los Angeles and Bevery Hills communities. Additionally, individuals from all over the country and the world regularly come to Los Angeles for his expert care.

To learn more about Dr. Steinsapir’s specialized Restylane treatments, please contact us today.

Services described may be “off-label” and lack FDA approval. This article is informational and does not constitute an advertisement for off-label treatment. No services should be provided without a good faith examination by a licensed physician and an informed consent with a discussion of risks, benefits, alternatives, and the likelihood of treatment success. Only you and your treating physician or surgeon can determine if a treatment is right for you.

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September 5, 2011

What should I expect with my facelift surgery?

Filed under: beverly hills facelift,Cosmetic Surgery,facelift,facelift los angeles,facial cosmetic surgery,Ronald Reagan Medical Center at UCLA,safe cosmetic surgery — Tags: beverly hills facelift, deep plane facelift, facelift, facelift in los angeles, facelift nerve injuries, facelift risks, los angeles cosmetic surgeon, lower face liposuction, safe facelift — admin @ 3:13 pm

Facelift surgery is the most powerful of facial cosmetic surgeries you can undergo. Although we say it in practically every blog entry, in this instance it is more true than ever; choose a doctor who is experienced, up-to-date on the latest techniques, and skilled at performing facelifts. The procedure for facelift has changed significantly in recent years. What is clear is that there is not added benefit for the higher risk, deep plane facelift.

When it comes to choosing the best facelift for you, there is no right answer as to which method is the most effective, natural looking, or successful. A customized treatment plan, established by you and your doctor and based on your features and desires will significantly influence the outcome of your procedure. A facelift will always be a procedure of intelligent choices.

Where is surgery commonly performed and what type of anesthesia?

Typically facelift surgery is an outpatient procedure, but overnight stays may be recommended after deep sedation or general anesthesia. For certain individuals, your doctor can perform your facelift in the office, while you are awake and under local anesthesia. But for most, general anesthesia or deep sedation is the best choice. For cases requiring deep sedation and general anesthesia, Dr. Steinsapir performs surgery at the UCLA Ronald Reagan Medical Center and usually recommends an overnight stay at the surgery center.

Recovery and physical restrictions

A facelift takes approximately four hours. Usually there is minimal discomfort afterward; managed with either over-the-counter or prescription pain medications. You may experience moderate swelling around the eyelids and other areas of the face, but this is normal and is not cause for concern. Most find taking 7-10 days off from work about right. This time frame can depend on the precise nature of you work.

Common complications after surgery

Facelift surgeries performed by a skilled and experienced surgeon rarely have complications. The deep plane facelift mobilizes the tissue under the facial muscles and can injure these motor nerves causing facial weakness. The incidence is small but not zero. The risk amounts to only a very small percentage of individuals who receive this treatment experiencing this complication, but there is just no reason to risk this nerve damage when other methods of facelifts are available. In fact, there is essentially no cosmetic benefit to the deep plane facelift compared to other lifting methods. Other complications can include significant bruising and very rarely infection.

The time frame before full recovery

Recovery periods for facelift procedures vary greatly depending on the type of facelift surgery your physician and you decide on. Typically however, you can expect to return to work after 6 to 10 days. After 2-3 weeks, others are unlikely to detect that you just had surgery. Facelifts are not considered fully healed until about 6 months after. Once you have recovered fully, the results of surgery are very long term.

About Dr. Steinsapir

Dr. Steinsapir is on active staff at the UCLA Hospital and Medical Center at the David Geffen School of Medicine as an associate clinical professor of Ophthalmology in the Division of Orbital and Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery. UCLA is consistently rated the best hospital in the West and ranked at the top with a handful of medical centers in the United States. Many surgeries are performed on an outpatient basis at the Surgery Center at the UCLA Medical Center. Dr. Steinsapir addresses a broad array of oculofacial reconstructive concerns. Contact us today to schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Steinsapir.

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July 14, 2011

Facial Sculpting with Microcurrent

Filed under: beverly hills facelift,facelift,facelift alternative,facelift los angeles,facial fillers,safe cosmetic surgery — Tags: beverly hills facelift, facelift, facelift in los angeles, facial fillers, facial sculpting, facial sculpting with microcurrent, microcurrent, non-surgical facelift — admin @ 7:22 pm

Microcurrent facial sculpting is a rising trend, but buyer beware the cosmetic surgery fads. Like lasers, the term “microcurrent” sounds sexy and high-tech. But the reality of microcurrents is that they are a lot of hype and very little science. The use of microcurrent devices is essentially unregulated. FDA clearance of these devices is very simple for the manufacturers because the amount of current used is so small. The marketing for microcurrents would have you believe that by stimulating your facial muscles, your face becomes more toned and appears lifted and more youthful. There is no evidence that this is true.

The Truth About Microcurrents

Quacks have been touting the value of electrical current for healing for about as long as man has controlled electricity. Obviously, high voltage, high amperage devices are dangerous. What we are talking about here is very low levels of electrical current. Remember the adage that every good lie begins with a grain of truth. It is easy to understand that if you lift weights consistently enough, the muscles become toned. Proponents of microcurrent devices make the argument that the electricity of these devices will stimulate and tone the facial muscles and this will tone and improve the face, getting rid of wrinkles at the same time. Sounds great. The only problem is that there is not a single scientific study that supports this idea. We call this “phony science.” Microcurrents cannot, and will not lift and reposition the facial tissues. Even the claims of mild improvement are unproven. The harm here is that you are wasting your time and money and being deceived in the process.

Why all the Hype?

The hype surrounding microcurrent facial sculpting machines with unrealistic before and after pictures are equally misleading. Typically these before and after pictures show a loose neck and jowls next to a youthful and sculpted jawline and neck. These pictures could show the same person, but it is unlikely the differences were the result of microcurrent facial sculpting. The smooth, wrinkle-free neck is most likely the result of a little Photoshop magic and lighting, not microcurrent. These treatments offer empty promises. The treatment does not compare to a facelift or nonsurgical facial fillers.

About Dr. Steinsapir

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July 8, 2011

How Do I Know if I’m Ready for Cosmetic Surgery?

Filed under: best cosmetic surgeons,Cosmetic Surgery,Dr. Steinsapir,facial cosmetic surgery,safe cosmetic surgery — Tags: beverly hills, body dysmorphic disorder, Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Steinsapir, los angeles cosmetic surgeon, ready for cosmetic surgery — admin @ 11:38 am

Dr. Steinsapir typically does not recommend surgery until you have some issue that can’t be addressed or rectified with non-surgical means, or if the economics of surgery outweigh the non-surgical treatments and the risks of the two approaches are appropriately balanced. Practically speaking, if you look long enough, you will almost always find a surgeon willing to perform surgery. This means that it’s especially important for you to research the different treatment options available, talk to a number of specialists and, if surgery is the best course of action, discuss the pros and cons with your chosen surgeon. An ethical surgeon will examine your condition and make a recommendation based on your goals and needs, rather than their pocket book.

Consider the impact of surgery

While television programs are full of stories about how plastic surgery transformed the lives of the patients, these grand results are much less common than the TV might lead you to believe. An improved upper eyelid won’t suddenly transform your life by helping you to get a better job, end conflict with your spouse, or make you an instant celebrity. A realistic goal is that you will be pleased with the improvement and happy that you had surgery. However, it is unrealistic to expect the surgery will help you land that promotion and help you pay off the cost of surgery. Don’t opt for surgery if it is a choice between basic necessities and having surgery. Paying rent and health insurance is more important than elective cosmetic surgery. These are personal choices, but cosmetic surgery is a luxury and not a necessity. Make sure you aren’t over committing yourself financially in deciding to have surgery.

Consider your motivations

Before deciding to undergo cosmetic surgery, ask yourself “why.” The first step to understanding if you are ready for surgery is to understand your motivations. Do you want surgery to please yourself, or to please someone else? There is no right answer, but if you want surgery to please someone else, ask yourself if the surgical outcomes are something you also want. Do you find yourself preoccupied with thoughts of a particular surgery? Do you avoid social situations because you are concerned that people are staring or whispering about you? Do you spend hours every day repeatedly thinking about an issue that your friends have trouble seeing? These may be signs of a condition called body dysmorphic disorder. Body dysmorphic disorder is an obsessive thought pattern characterized by focusing on a slight or nonexistant flaw. Unfortunately, it is difficult to fix subtle or nonexistent issues surgically. Occasionally this leads to a flat out misunderstanding between surgeon and patient, and even more trouble after surgery. Dr. Steinsapir find that it is best to air these issues openly and if necessary involve a psychotherapist to help the individual better understand their motivation to have surgery.

Consider your support system

One last series of questions you should ask yourself is about support from family and friends. Are others around you supportive of you having cosmetic surgery? Keep in mind that a negative environment can be harmful to your healing process following surgery. It is so important to make sure those you love are supportive of your decision before you undergo cosmetic surgery. Don’t try to hide the fact that you are undergoing cosmetic surgery; be open about your plans and find support from those around you.

About Dr. Steinsapir

Dr. Steinsapir is a board certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained in oculoplastic surgery and cosmetic surgery in Los Angeles where he specializes in balanced facial cosmetic surgery for natural results, with an emphasis on minimally invasive techniques, fast recovery time, and leadership in medical technology. Dr. Steinsapir has a private practice and also serves as an Associate Clinical Professor of Ophthalmology at the Jules Stein Eye Institute, at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. Contact us today to learn how Dr. Steinsapir’s experience and training make him an expert provider of cosmetic surgery.

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June 25, 2011

What should I expect with my upper eyelid surgery?

Filed under: blepharoplasty,Eyelid Surgery,oculoplastic surgery,ptosis,safe cosmetic surgery — Tags: blepharoplasty, corrective eyelid surgery, oculoplastic surgery, upper eyelid surgery — admin @ 3:10 pm

When you undergo upper blepharoplasty, eye tuck, eye job, eye lift, or lidlift surgery, your surgeon removes excess skin and sculpts fatty tissue that creates the appearance of droopy, deflated eyelids. Certain eyelid structures may also be tightened as part of your surgery. As the fat deposits, loose skin, and drooping of the eyelids typically occur due to aging, this procedure serves to restore a more youthful, refreshed, and rested appearance.

Because it is a versatile procedure, upper eyelid surgery can also accomplish other goals, such as creating an upper eyelid crease, opening heavy eyes, improving lash ptosis, and smoothing the skin of the eyelid platform making it more suitable for makeup. In addition, the upper eyelid lift procedure effectively leads to a reduction in skin tissue above the eye, allowing for better peripheral vision for some individuals.

Where is surgery performed and what type of anesthesia will my surgeon use?

Some doctors, like Dr. Steinsapir, maintain a dedicated procedure suite in his or her office and for healthy patients, many eyelid surgeries can be performed under local anesthesia in the office setting. Others need to have surgery in a surgery center and this is typically done at a center or the outpatient wing of a larger hospital facility. Dr. Steinsapir often brings his patients who need this level of service to the Surgery Center at The Ronald Regan UCLA Medical Center. The location of your procedure varies based on the resources available to your surgeon and your unique health needs.

Eyelid surgery is very comfortable and most procedures are easily performed under local anesthesia with or without intravenous sedation. Dr. Steinsapir advises against having eyelid surgery under general anesthesia. To get the best possible result it is essential that the eyes can open and close to command during surgery. If you are asleep, this is impossible and the surgical results will be compromised. As an alternative, Dr. Steinsapir recommends having surgery under intravenous sedation where the anesthesiologist controls the level of sedation. You would be minimally aware but still able to cooperate during surgery. Because of the drugs used, you may not form memories of the surgery and yet you are able to cooperate during surgery, which is ideal.

What are the physical restrictions following surgery?

Before you undergo surgery, a reputable oculoplastic surgeon will ask about your medical history and perform a detail examination of the eyes and eyelids to ascertain your risk level and special considerations. If you must be on a medication like Plavix or aspirin for medical reasons to thin your blood, your surgeon may advise you that you are not a candidate for cosmetic eyelid surgery, or may recommend a less extensive eyelid surgery.

During the first part of your recovery, you will need to take it easy, avoid bending over, and immediately call your surgeon should you experience any pain, bleeding, or impaired vision after surgery. After 24 hours, Dr. Steinsapir will encourage you to go for a walk. Bruising and swelling are normal after surgery. However, many find that large sunglasses hide these bruises making shopping possible even in the first week after surgery. Most people take a full week off from work. However, many find that within a day of surgery, they are able to handle phone calls and email without a problem. It will be about 10 days before most people may not notice that you just had something done. We generally advise people to wait about this long before going back to the gym. However, because workouts vary so much, it is best to discuss your workout with your surgeon to get advice that is tailored to your particular workout. When you see your cosmetic surgeon, he or she will go over your pre-op and recovery plans in depth, giving you instructions and making sure you have the opportunity to ask all of your questions.

What are some complications from surgery and how they are addressed?

If anyone tells you that you can’t go blind from eyelid surgery like blepharoplasty, they aren’t being honest with you. The truth is, while this is an extremely rare complication, there is a risk of blindness from eyelid surgery. Of course no doctor thinks this will happen to them, but the best oculoplastic surgeon will acknowledge it’s a possibility, be honest with you about this, and take precautions to minimize the risk as much as possible.

Loss of vision after eyelid surgery is general due to bleeding behind the eye called a retrobulbar hemorrhage. If someone tells you that they have never this type of problem after eyelid surgery, then they probably have not seen enough cases, or simply lack adequate training in eyelid surgery. Avoiding medications and herbal products that thin the blood, like aspirin and Ginko help reduce this risk.

Your doctor will have you avoid blood-thinning medications to significantly decrease the already-low risk of retrobulbar hemorrhage. This means that, with the consent of your general practitioner or family doctor, you won’t be able to take certain prescription medications as well as over-the-counter medications like Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Advil, and Motrin. You will also need to abstain from most herbal products for a while. If you have been prescribed a medication by a physician specifically for the purpose of reducing the risk of clotting, such as Plavix, coumadin, or aspirin, do not stop these medications on your own. This needs to be done under direct medical supervision. In some circumstances, your doctors may decide that these medications cannot be stopped and this will have a bearing on going forward with elective eyelid surgery.

Other issues may be more common but are less serious. Dry eye after eyelid surgery is very common. This is typically because your eyes were on the dry side before surgery and eyelid swelling makes this a bit worse. As the swelling settles down, typically the dry eye symptoms settle down to what they were before surgery. Some complications are very specific to the type of eyelid surgery you are considering. For this reason, it is incumbent upon your surgeon to discuss these possibilities with you at the time of consultation. If they spend 5 minutes with you, you are being short changed of this discussion. A detailed surgical consultation appropriate for eyelid surgery can last an hour or more.

What is the time frame before full recovery?

Generally the bruising and swelling that is common after eyelid surgery rapidly diminishes. Most people are comfortable returning to work and social activities within seven to ten days following surgery. Complying all your surgeon’s post-op care procedures will ensure your recovery is as swift as possible. Generally it is about 8 weeks before the swelling in the eyelids won’t be obvious to you when you look in the mirror.

About Dr. Steinsapir

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May 28, 2011

Do 1 in 30,000 eyelid surgeries really result in blindness?

Filed under: blepharoplasty,cosmetic eyelid surgery,Cosmetic Surgery,fixing eyelid surgery,oculoplastic surgery,safe cosmetic surgery — Tags: blindness, corrective eyelid surgery, Cosmetic Surgery, eye surgery risks, oculoplastic surgery — admin @ 11:06 am

The risk of eyelid surgery resulting in blindness is real. Every time a doctor performs eyelid surgery there is a risk of vision loss. For this reason, it is important that you undergo an eye examination before your eyelid surgery, including an assessment of your vision. Experience has some bearing on the rate of visual loss and certain procedures may have a higher risk of bleeding behind the eye, the most common cause of blindness after eyelid surgery. Your eyelid surgeon needs to be able to identify and manage bleeding behind the eye, also known as retrobulbar hemorrhage.

Managing Risk

If a surgeon you are interviewing states that he or she has never experienced a retrobulbar hemorrhage in a patient, they have not been in practice long enough. A retrobulbar hemorrhage, which may occur in one case in a 1,000, does not necessarily lead to blindness. An experienced and capable surgeon can mitigate the damage if he or she can immediately recognize the problem; identify pushing forward of the eye, recognize signs such as reduced vision, pain, and impairment of the pupillary function; assess elevated intra-ocular pressure; and rapidly intervene to preserve vision.

Realistic Numbers

What is the actual risk of visual loss? It’s only estimated, but approximately 250,000 cosmetic eyelid surgeries were performed last year in the United States. If the rate of vision loss was one in 30,000 cases, only about 8 patients lost vision in one of their eyes as a result of eyelid surgery.

Being a responsible patient

Bottom line is: yes, it is possible to lose your vision as a result of an eyelid surgery, but some of the responsibility rests with you as a patient. You can reduce your risks by disclosing all medications and herbal supplements you are taking to your surgeon. Follow all the directions your surgeon gives you regarding preparations for surgery. Choose your surgeon carefully and make sure her or she personally performs an examination of your eyes and checks your vision prior to eyelid surgery. The risk of visual loss is small, but not zero. If you are concerned about this risk, discuss the issue with your eyelid surgeon and seek a surgeon who is qualified to handle any eye emergencies that might arise in association with your eyelid surgery.

About Dr. Steinsapir

Dr. Steinsapir is a board certified eye surgeon and fellowship-trained in oculoplastic surgery and cosmetic surgery in Los Angeles where he specializes in balanced facial cosmetic surgery for natural results, with an emphasis on minimally invasive techniques, fast recovery time, and leadership in medical technology. Dr. Steinsapir has a private practice and also serves as an Associate Clinical Professor of Ophthalmology at the Jules Stein Eye Institute, at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. Contact us today to learn how Dr. Steinsapir’s experience and training make him an expert in cosmetic surgery, which can be a vital part of your evidence-based treatment plan.
Services described may be “off-label” and lack FDA approval. This article is informational and does not constitute an advertisement for off-label treatment. No services should be provided without a good faith examination by a licensed physician and an informed consent with a discussion of risks, benefits, alternatives, and the likelihood of treatment success. Only you and your treating physician or surgeon can determine if a treatment is right for you.

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May 24, 2011

How good are the cosmetic surgeries advertised on television?

Filed under: best cosmetic surgeons,Cosmetic Surgery,Dr. Steinsapir,Ronald Reagan Medical Center at UCLA,safe cosmetic surgery — Tags: Cosmetic Surgery, Dr. Steinsapir, los angeles, los angeles cosmetic surgeon — admin @ 2:33 pm

Advertisements on television offer compelling bi-lines and a lot of hype about cosmetic surgery procedures. In today’s media-driven world where television personalities and movie stars seem to be always under the knife, it’s easy to become carried away with the notion that cosmetic surgery is simple, painless, and as easy as walking into the nearest cosmetic surgeon’s office and walking out with a new look. In reality, television greatly skews our understanding of what it means to undergo a facelift, lid lift, or even a BOTOX® injection. In truth, satisfactory cosmetic surgery results do not come from the best price, the flashiest advertisement, or the most recently famous surgeon; they come from a dedicated surgeon who is an expert in his or her field who will listen carefully to your needs and offer you the safest and most effective treatment plan for you.

Reality vs. Reality Television

When it comes to cosmetic surgery reality shows, the term “reality” becomes a very loose term. These programs have ridden (some would say helped to stimulate) the wave of interest in cosmetic surgery, yet they provide only a very distorted view of the practice of cosmetic surgery. The consultation becomes a sound bite and in the process minimizes the risks and appropriate concerns that must be addressed. So many procedures are performed on some of these shows at one time that the surgery becomes unnecessarily life threatening. No one should be placed in a position of choosing between their beauty and their health. Of course there are risks with any surgery and anesthesia. However, these risks can be managed and reduced by using the most appropriate anesthesia, operating in the proper setting, and limiting the amount of surgery performed at a given time.

Choosing the right doctor

By playing on your desire for a “quick fix,” advertisers are reinforcing the misconception that cosmetic surgery is just another quick trip to the doctor’s office; like receiving a flu shot. But just as a flu shot comes with risks, so too does cosmetic surgery. Although there are risks with any surgeon and procedure, an expert surgeon will guide you through these risks helping you to make an informed decision. Offices that gloss over these concerns are trying to take advantage of your lack of expert knowledge. It is the job of the surgeon and their staff to educate you and help you make the right decision, not hustle you into having surgery. At the end of the day it is essential that you trust your doctor. It goes without saying that your doctor should make sense, listen to you, and treat you with respect and dignity. The office staff should also listen to your concerns and treat you with respect. Don’t be intimidated by the doctor’s reputation. That reputation is meaningless if the doctor doesn’t treat you like a human being. Before and after pictures are also extremely important. This is generally a doctor’s best work. If you don’t like what you are seeing, it is a mistake to think your results with that particular doctor will be better than what you are being shown.

Consultation is key

Whether you decide to seek help from a clinic advertised on TV, or to take the recommendations of a friend or family member, it’s important to first attend a consultation with your chosen physician. That consultation should also include meaningful time with the surgeon who will be doing your surgery. If the surgeon is not detailed during your consultation, is it reasonable to assume they will be detailed in performing your surgery? To get the most from a consultation, do your homework. Have a good idea of what you are trying to accomplish. Be open to an approach that is different from what you thought you needed. Choose your surgeon based on his or her expertise, not based on media hype or discounts. If you don’t like what you are being told, don’t try to convince the surgeon to do something they have just advised you to avoid. Instead, consider seeking a second opinion to ensure your surgeon is giving you the options that he or she is most comfortable with and the safest possible plan-of-action. The good news is that in most cities, there are lots of options for cosmetic surgery care. No one person has all the answers. If all the other doctors you have seen recommend against a particular course, think long and hard about allowing that surgeon to perform your surgery.

About Dr. Steinsapir

Dr. Steinsapir is a board certified ophthalmologist and fellowship trained in oculoplastic surgery and cosmetic surgery in Los Angeles where he specializes in balanced facial cosmetic surgery for natural results, with an emphasis on minimally invasive techniques, fast recovery time, and leadership in medical technology. Dr. Steinsapir has a private practice and also serves as an Associate Clinical Professor of Ophthalmology at the Jules Stein Eye Institute, at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. Contact us today to learn how Dr. Steinsapir’s experience and training make him an expert provider of BOTOX, DYSPORT, Restylane and Perlane, and advanced eyelid and facial surgery, which can be a vital part of your evidence-based treatment plan.

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May 13, 2011

Which is better; surgery in a private center or a large outpatient surgery center like the Ronald Reagan Medical Center at UCLA

It is hard to improve on the staff and resources available at the UCLA Outpatient Surgery Center at the Ronald Reagan Medical Center at UCLA. UCLA is consistently rated the top medical center in the Western United States and one of the top five medical centers in the country.

Private surgery centers

Accredited surgery centers run by your surgeon’s office are generally safe, but Dr. Steinsapir believes there is inherent security offered by major medical centers that is difficult to duplicate in small surgery centers. Dr. Steinsapir notes that, while it is certainly more profitable and convenient for a surgeon to run his or her own surgery center, patient safety is a central focus of major medical centers, and therefore they are often a safer option for the patient. One of the great advantages of a major medical center is increased peer scrutiny and clinical resources. There are simply more people looking over the surgeon’s shoulder. At a private operating room, there is a single anesthesiologist and perhaps two nurses, or a nurse and a nurse anesthetist working with your surgeon. There is a very low incidence of issues in operating rooms, however, if an issue does arise, the available staff members and attending physicians are limited. Who is around to assist your surgeon and their anesthesiologist?

UCLA Surgery Center

The UCLA Surgery Center is not only staffed with numerous anesthesiologists, nurse anesthetists, respiratory therapists, and critical care nurses, but all staff members are up-to-date on the latest techniques. The anesthesiologists are not community-based. UCLA Surgery Center anesthesiologists are also academic faculty members actively involved in the latest developments in anesthesia as well as teachers of the next generation of anesthesiologists; they know their business. The surgery center is on the campus of the Ronald Reagan Medical Center with all the resources that modern medicine has to offer. You might inquire if your surgeon’s office-based operating room has a plan should something go wrong, but at UCLA you know you are in good hands.

Cost benefits of UCLA Surgery Center

Your surgeon’s private surgery center offers a convenience if your surgeon is local, but UCLA Surgery Center offers remarkably competitive facility and anesthesiology fees. In many cases, the rates are lower than those of many private surgery centers (in some cases, much lower). It is comforting to know that the safety of the UCLA Medical Center is within financial reach for your cosmetic surgery.

About Dr. Steinsapir

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February 27, 2011

Can I exercise my facial muscle for an improved tone?

Exercise and diet are essential for a healthy lifestyle, but it’s important to recognize their limitations. Not every condition can be cured by exercise, vitamin supplements or fad diets, especially when the problem is not a result of poor nutrition or inactivity. We absolutely encourage you to exercise moderately and eat well, but we admit to being skeptical of the arising claim that exercising facial muscles can restore youth and beauty to one’s face. This is an unproven method, and when one considers that they are likely still using their facial muscles just as much as they were ten years ago, it becomes apparent that their aging looks are unlikely due to facial inactivity.

It’s appealing to believe that we can resolve all of our concerns through exercise, and while research shows that exercise does benefit our health in many ways, it also shows that further medical treatment is required for many conditions. Just as someone with presbyopia cannot exercise to regain the ability to focus for reading vision, it’s not likely that you’ll be able to reverse the effects of age, time, gravity, and stress by wiggling your face or by having electrical currents stimulate your facial muscle to contract.

There are many types of facial cosmetic surgery and other treatment that can help you obtain the result you need if your doctor determines that you are a suitable candidate. These range from minimally invasive treatments with little-to-no downtime like BOTOX and undereye Restylane to surgeries like the facelift and plastic eyelid surgery including eyelid reconstruction, which give dramatic yet natural results to individuals with far-reaching concerns. While it is impossible to know which treatment, if any, is most suitable for you before a private consultation with the best facial cosmetic surgeon for you, you can be confident that there are a wide range of treatments that an expert can custom-tailor to meet your needs.

As a specialist in facial cosmetic treatments, Dr. Steinsapir has treated many individuals who first explored a variety of “natural solutions” for their aesthetic facial concerns. Frustrated when they saw no results, they eventually consulted with Dr. Steinsapir and opted for proven treatment methods that provide dramatic yet natural results. This human tendency to pursue unproven treatments is not a fault; it is normal to want to independently resolve a problem using the least invasive and most economical method possible.

Dr. Steinsapir is focused on your personal goals and comfort level. Dr. Steinsapir always asks you questions about your specific goals, individual situation, and preferences so that he can plan a solution that is aligned what you want, so you can feel comfortable knowing that you are ultimately in control of your treatment plan. Dr. Steinsapir very much believes in using the least invasive method for accomplishing a particular goal; for example, he does not recommend a forehead lift when a BOTOX treatment for wrinkles will will meet your goals – and he is a leader in his field of minimally invasive solutions.

If you are seeking a proven treatment with an experienced facial plastic surgeon with extensive training in oculofacial plastic surgery, we invite you to a personal consultation with Dr. Steinsapir today. Dr. Steinsapir is honest, friendly, and can talk to you about customized treatments that give you the results you seek by addressing your specific needs and unique facial features. Please call us today to schedule a time when you can speak with Dr. Steinsapir.

About Dr. Steinsapir

Dr. Steinsapir is a board certified cosmetic surgeon and oculoplastic surgeon in Los Angeles where he specializes in balanced facial cosmetic surgery for natural results, with an emphasis on minimally invasive techniques, fast recovery time, and leadership in medical technology. Dr. Steinsapir has a private practice and also serves patients at UCLA, where he is an assistant
clinical professor. Contact us today to learn how Dr. Steinsapir’s experience and training make him an expert provider of facial cosmetic surgery and eyelid reconstruction, which can be a vital part of your evidence-based treatment plan.

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