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Male pattern balding is the most common form of balding. The lesser known, and less talked about, form of balding, or alopecia, happens in women. Most people do not realize that hair loss in women is actually relatively common.
True, it is more common in older women and is thus associated with aging, but much of that has to do with hormonal changes. In menopause, a woman stops ovulating. Ovulation causes the release of estrogen, the female hormone, into the body.
When menopause takes place, a woman not only produces less estrogen but actually produces more of the male hormone, testosterone. All women produce some testosterone, but after menopause the ratio of testosterone to estrogen increases significantly.
Many women will experience a deepening of the voice, courser facial hair, and hair loss following menopause. However, testosterone alone is not the culprit. In fact it is the combination of 5-alpha reductase, an enzyme, with testosterone that produces DHT (Dihydrotestosterone), the cause of 95% of hair loss in both men and women.
While genetics play a role in how much DHT a woman produces, there are a few other rarer causes for hair loss in women. Some skin diseases can cause scarring of the hair follicles, leading to permanent hair loss. Unusually tight hair styles like cornrows, ponytails, or braids can lead to temporary hair loss.
Nutrient deficiencies, chemotherapy, and beta blockers can all cause temporary hair loss as well. These forms of temporary hair loss will repair naturally, with the reversal of the causal factor. But the permanent hair loss resulting from DHT production can only be resolved with hair restoration.
Male pattern balding is the most common form of balding. The lesser known, and less talked about, form of balding, or alopecia, happens in women. Most people do not realize that hair loss in women is actually relatively common.
True, it is more common in older women and is thus associated with aging, but much of that has to do with hormonal changes. In menopause, a woman stops ovulating. Ovulation causes the release of estrogen, the female hormone, into the body.
When menopause takes place, a woman not only produces less estrogen but actually produces more of the male hormone, testosterone. All women produce some testosterone, but after menopause the ratio of testosterone to estrogen increases significantly.
Many women will experience a deepening of the voice, courser facial hair, and hair loss following menopause. However, testosterone alone is not the culprit. In fact it is the combination of 5-alpha reductase, an enzyme, with testosterone that produces DHT (Dihydrotestosterone), the cause of 95% of hair loss in both men and women.
While genetics play a role in how much DHT a woman produces, there are a few other rarer causes for hair loss in women. Some skin diseases can cause scarring of the hair follicles, leading to permanent hair loss. Unusually tight hair styles like cornrows, ponytails, or braids can lead to temporary hair loss.
Nutrient deficiencies, chemotherapy, and beta blockers can all cause temporary hair loss as well. These forms of temporary hair loss will repair naturally, with the reversal of the causal factor. But the permanent hair loss resulting from DHT production can only be resolved with hair restoration.
Women suffer from hair loss nearly as commonly as men. While most older men suffer from hair loss, at least 50% of women do as well. Typically, the hair loss women experience begins during or after menopause, in the 50’s and 60’s, but others start losing hair as early as the teenage years.
Androgenetic alopecia is a fancy way of saying “inherited hair loss.” This is the most common form of hair loss affecting women. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, it is a disorder that currently affects 30 million women in the U.S.
One of the first ways a physician will check to see if this might be the cause for a female patient’s hair loss is to ask about her family history. If there are other women in her genealogical line who have suffered from noticeable hair loss, it may be genetic.
A more direct way of looking for this disorder is to examine the hairs under magnification. If a woman’s hairs vary in thickness, this may be an indicator of androgenetic alopecia. The hair follicles, in this disorder, shrink slowly away until the hair growth in the affected follicles stops altogether.
Other less common causes for hair loss in women include polycystic ovary syndrome, autoimmune diseases, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, extreme dieting, vitamin or mineral deficiencies, protein deficiencies, stress, and excessive hair treatments.
Hair loss is not deadly, and it doesn’t cause physical pain (except for sunburns on the scalp!). But the embarrassment and shame hair loss sufferers feel is very serious to them. Continually looking for remedies and new treatments, people seek the advice of experts on the subject. There are many experts out there, offering wisdom and hope on the subject of hair loss.
Many natural health professionals cite the research that has linked hair loss to excessive consumption of animal fat, animal proteins, and salt. Cutting these excesses out of the diet can help many men slow hair loss, even those suffering from inherited male-pattern balding.
Dr. Elson Haas has discussed hair loss associated with zinc deficiency. A shortage of this key mineral can cause thinning hair, patches of hair loss, scalp problems like dermatitis (that can further damage the hair follicles), and decreased hair growth.
Scalp conditions like eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, common dandruff, etc. can all cause damage to the delicate hair follicles. Thus, it is important to treat conditions of the scalp quickly and efficiently to prevent scarring of the tissue around the hair follicles. Even common dandruff, when bad enough, can cause chunks of hair to fall out with the flakes of skin.
Other factors that experts connect to hair loss include toxic metal contamination, infections, hypothyroidism, severely restrictive dieting, unhealthy diets, lack of protein, too much protein, intestinal parasites, amino acid deficiencies, hair treatments, hormone imbalances, alopecia areata (an autoimmune disorder), and stress.
Consult with your physician about your hair loss and, if the more unusual causes are ruled out and genes are causing your problem, consider your hair loss treatment options, including hair restoration surgery. Hair loss is something that does not have to affect your daily life.
The average person loses between 50 and 100 strands of hair per day. This may seem surprising, but it’s actually just a natural part of the hair growth cycle. For others, however, hair loss goes beyond the norm, resulting in thinning tresses and an increasingly exposed scalp.
Some hair loss is caused by genetic factors, some by excessive hair treatment. But many wonder about the correlation between hair loss and the diet. Does fast food lead to hair loss? Could vitamins play a role? What about the balance between food categories?
The American diet seems to be connected to hair loss, at least for some of the many hair loss sufferers in the U.S. Highly processed foods void of vitamins, antioxidants, minerals, and other key nutrients can leave an individual without basic hair-building supplies. Obviously, a poor diet has been connected with many illnesses and failures of body functioning, but the connection to hair loss is not always as clear.
One thing that is clear is that vitamin deficiencies and protein deficiencies are directly linked to hair loss. And while the American diet definitely provides plenty of protein, sometimes excessive animal protein, it is often lacking in vitamins.
A less direct link is inherent in the way drastic diet differences can affect hormones, hormones being a pivotal part of the proper functioning of the hair growth cycle. Eating too much fat, sugar, processed foods, and salt creates stress on the body, including the kidneys, leading to acidic blood. A more acidic pH level in the body can contribute to many problems and is suspected of contributing to hair loss.
Much like a pet dog on a quality brand of dog food will have stronger, healthier, and more beautiful fur, dogs eating poor quality food tend to have brittle dry hair that tends to fall out more. One can thus imagine that eating a healthy diet of vegetables, fruit, whole grains and lean meats can prevent certain types of hair loss and lead to healthier, shinier hair.
Hair loss, or alopecia, is a common concern for both men and women. While most balding is related to genetic concerns, stress has been tentatively linked to some hair loss. What does the current research tell us?
An autoimmune disease attacking the hair follicles, alopecia areata has been linked to stress, as have other autoimmune diseases like diabetes and multiple sclerosis. But concise evidence has thus far not proven stress to otherwise be a cause for permanent hair loss.
What is known is that the hair follicles are surrounded by nerves. These nerves produce substances such as neuropeptides. One particular neuropeptide, substance P, is involved in the transmission of the sensation of pain. If this is not produced sufficiently or correctly, it could be possible for the resulting inflammation to affect hair growth. Studies in mice have shown that substance P changes the hair growth cycle.
Another stress-related chemical in the body is cortisol, a stress hormone. A recent study found that the hair follicles actually contain an additional adrenal site of cortisol synthesis, meaning that stress and cortisol may have a direct impact on the hair follicle.
Recent studies specifically focusing on the nerves around hair follicles have given preliminary evidence that managing nerve inflammation may reverse some types of hair loss. Capsaicin is a chemical extracted from chili peppers that triggers the release of substance P and may help stimulate hair growth, as it soothes irritated nerves inside the scalp.
This and other potential treatments are currently being studied. But as it stands right now, more research must be done before science can conclude for a fact that some permanent hair loss can result from stress.
Balding is known in the medical field as alopecia. In men, male pattern balding is the most common form of hair loss. In 95% of hair loss sufferers, the cause is DHT.
Testosterone, a male hormone (or androgen) combines with the enzyme 5 alpha reductase to produce DHT (Dihydrotestosterone). In many men, there is a greater than normal production of DHT in the body, causing these men to suffer from hair loss in the form of male pattern balding.
DHT makes a waxy substance at the base of the hair follicle, which weakens, slows, and eventually ends hair growth. The hair loss associated with DHT is typically permanent hair loss.
Male pattern baldness, as a result of the way DHT functions, tends to follow a few basic patterns. Generally, male pattern balding begins with a receding hairline, followed by a bald spot in the back slowly growing to meet the still receding hair line at the front.
This leaves a man with hair just surrounding the bottom of the head, though some men lose part of this as well. While it is a common condition, male pattern balding does lead to self-esteem issues, anxiety, and depression in some men. Treatment for male pattern balding can be DHT blockers to stop further loss and/or hair restoration.
Male pattern balding is the most common form of balding. The lesser known, and less talked about, form of balding, or alopecia, happens in women. Most people do not realize that hair loss in women is actually relatively common.
True, it is more common in older women and is thus associated with aging, but much of that has to do with hormonal changes. In menopause, a woman stops ovulating. Ovulation causes the release of estrogen, the female hormone, into the body.
When menopause takes place, a woman not only produces less estrogen but actually produces more of the male hormone, testosterone. All women produce some testosterone, but after menopause the ratio of testosterone to estrogen increases significantly.
Many women will experience a deepening of the voice, courser facial hair, and hair loss following menopause. However, testosterone alone is not the culprit. In fact it is the combination of 5-alpha reductase, an enzyme, with testosterone that produces DHT (Dihydrotestosterone), the cause of 95% of hair loss in both men and women.
While genetics play a role in how much DHT a woman produces, there are a few other rarer causes for hair loss in women. Some skin diseases can cause scarring of the hair follicles, leading to permanent hair loss. Unusually tight hair styles like cornrows, ponytails, or braids can lead to temporary hair loss.
Nutrient deficiencies, chemotherapy, and beta blockers can all cause temporary hair loss as well. These forms of temporary hair loss will repair naturally, with the reversal of the causal factor. But the permanent hair loss resulting from DHT production can only be resolved with hair restoration.
DHT, or Dihydrotestosterone, is a natural metabolite produced by the body, primarily in males, that causes most hair loss. Androgens are male hormones that assist in both hair growth and hair loss. What happens in hair loss is the androgen testosterone interacts with the 5 alpha reductase, an enzyme, producing DHT.
Down inside the hair follicle, at the base of each individual strand of hair, is a structure called the dermal papilla. The papilla is a clump of rapidly multiplying cells. It contains receptors for androgens, more so in men than in women.
However, some women develop more DHT than some men. Women are susceptible to female pattern balding, if they produce an unusual amount of DHT. Men who produce less than most men tend to maintain their hair throughout life.
DHT blocks the papilla’s ability to absorb the all-important nutrients, like protein and vitamins that hair needs to grow properly. With DHT, a waxy substance, in the way, the hair follicle will slow hair production, until it stops.
DHT also causes miniaturization, the process whereby thick strands of hair slowly become more fine and weak. This, like the slowing of hair growth, occurs in balding as well. 95% of all hair loss is a result of excessive DHT production inside the hair follicle.
Alopecia is the medical term for hair loss, or balding. Alopecia areata is a particular form of balding that makes up only a tiny minority of hair loss in males and females. 95% of all hair loss is a result of DHT, a hormone made by a certain enzyme combining with testosterone in the hair follicle.
Alopecia areata, like standard male pattern or female pattern balding, is usually a temporary hair loss condition, but can cause permanent hair loss in some. The reason for the hair loss is actually an autoimmune disorder. Fortunately, for those who are diagnosed with alopecia areata, this autoimmune disease is not serious like Lupus, Multiple Sclerosis, or Celiac Disease, although it can be connected with them.
Instead of attacking some vital internal structure of the body, this autoimmune disease causes the immune system to attack hair follicles. The hair follicles contain a papilla, a clump of rapidly multiplying cells that combine protein with other nutrients to make the hair grow.
The immune cells attack the hair follicle at the papilla, effectively ending the production of hair. This condition can run in families and generally shows up in childhood with patches of missing hair or overall thinning. Half of these patients will outgrow the condition within a year, but others may require treatment with steroid products or hair restoration.
Primarily, alopecia areata affects the scalp, but it can also affect hair on the body. The cause of this disorder is still unknown, but it is suspected to be a result of genetic heredity.
The debate has actually gone on for centuries- which is better, the open or the closed rhinoplasty? Surgeons of earlier times vacillated between the two options, being proponents of either one or the other.
Today, it is considered best if a surgeon has an open mind about both rhinoplasty techniques. A comparison of the two types helps identify the unique advantages of each.
Open rhinoplasty involves an external incision in the nose itself, usually in the columella which is located between the nostrils. The nose can then be “opened” allowing the surgeon to get a direct visual view of the inside of the nose.
Open rhinoplasty is often preferred for plastic surgery because it allows more control over changing the shape of the nose. Patients who want the length of the nose reduced or increased will likely be recommended to an open rhinoplasty.
The closed rhinoplasty reduces operation time and thus the amount of time the patient is under anesthesia. Swelling is definitely lesser with the closed rhinoplasty, as much of the swelling is internal and not visible to the naked eye.
While the patient may heal faster with a closed rhinoplasty, and have a slightly smaller risk of scarring, most patients seeking rhinoplasty for changing the appearance of the nose will likely be more concerned about the end results.
Rhinoplasty is any type of operative technique performed on noses. The purposes for rhinoplasty include the restoring of nasal airway function, the reparation of a nasal deformity, and for altering the shape of a patient’s nose.
Two basic techniques or types of rhinoplasty are used for different purposes. Closed, or endonasal, rhinoplasty involves any surgical techniques that are performed without cutting the exterior of the nose.
Open, or exterior, rhinoplasty involves first cutting the columella between the nostrils, and then, with increased access, performing more incisions on the inside. The incisions on the inside may be the same as those done in closed rhinoplasty, but the difference is the external incision.
While open rhinoplasty has its clear advantage of allowing greater access and more room for the surgeon to perform any needed surgery on the inside of the nose, the closed rhinoplasty is generally preferred where it is possible.
The reasons for this are many, including reduced postoperative swelling, decreased need for supporting the nasal tip, no external scarring, and shorter operation and recovery times. The patient will return to a normal appearance in less time, allowing him or her to go back to work sooner after the surgery.
Rhinoplasty is not a new invention. Going back to the centuries before Christ (B.C.), rhinoplasty was performed in its primitive beginnings in Ancient Japan and the Middle East. Techniques practiced then eventually spread to Europe and eventually to the U.S., as later centuries brought greater sophistication to the old techniques.
An assistant orthopedic surgeon ahead of his time, in 1896, Jacques Joseph of Prussia was appealed to by a mother of a young boy. The poor child was born with large protruding ears and was teased mercilessly by his schoolmates. She asked if there was anything that could be done for her son.
Joseph felt that it was possible. He took his time planning and operated on the boy’s ears. The boy’s ears were greatly improved. Although Joseph’s reputation was shot into national renown, His employer, Dr. Wolff fired him for risking the Wolff clinic reputation on an unprecedented surgery.
This first plastic surgery in modern history was followed by another, shortly thereafter, the first rhinoplasty. In 1887, surgeon John Orlando Roe, mirroring Dr. Joseph’s success, managed to perform the first intranasal rhinoplasty. Dr. Roe is credited as the father of modern rhinoplasty, but Dr. Joseph is credited as the father of plastic surgery.
The first physician, Joseph, was sought out by a man who had heard about what he did for the little boy’s ears, and asked if he could help him with his embarrassingly large nose. Dr. Joseph practiced the nose reduction surgery on a cadaver, to ensure that he could produce a decent result.
Dr. Joseph then performed it on the man, with pleasing results. This was the second modern rhinoplasty performed, and thus rhinoplasty became an accepted procedure.
A deviated septum is a relatively common condition. In most people, it may not even be a noticeable problem, much of the time. But for others, it can be very bothersome.
The septum is the partition between the two nostrils. It is not perfect, in anyone, but generally divides the two nostrils relatively evenly. In many people, however, it is misshapen or “deviated.”
When a septum is deviated, it can cause stuffiness, a condition caused by the blockage of the airway due to the misplaced septum, not always because of excessive mucus. The deviated septum, in this case, is blocking one or both nostrils making it harder to breathe in and out through the nose.
On the other hand, a deviated septum can, in some cases, prevent proper drainage and airflow, leading to inflammation, which can lead to excessive mucus production as well. The septum may be deviated on the top or at the bottom of the nostrils, causing partial or complete blockage.
When surgical correction is needed, there are two options. One is a septoplasty, in which the septum is only partially removed and the rest replaced back into the center of the nostrils. The other is submucous resection or SMR.
SMR is a procedure that is a little more aggressive than the septoplasty. As the septoplasty attempts to keep the septum as intact as possible, the SMR is a more intensive surgical treatment.
In the SMR, the surgeon will peel back the lining of the nose from the septum and actually take out the bone and cartilage from the site of deviation. The lining, now empty, is put back in place, leaving that part of the septum thinner and more pliable than before.
With the SMR, the patient is placed under general anesthesia. Sometimes, a splint is placed. The nose will need to be packed for about a day, to keep the intended position as it heals. The septum should not be any further trouble after an SMR.
Reconstructive nose surgery, or rhinoplasty, became more sophisticated and wide-ranging in the 20th century. In 1902 through 1904, Freer and Killian developed submucous resection septoplasty, a surgery for the correction of a deviated septum.
Lifting the mucoperichondrial tissue flaps, they made incisions to cut and move the cartilaginous and bony septum, whilst keeping the septum supported with a small margin at the dorsum and the caudad. It was a successful procedure which soon became the standard for correcting a deviated septum.
Later, in 1921, Rethi pioneered a surgery for adjusting the tip of the nose. It was an open rhinoplasty involving the incision of the columella to create access to the inside of the end of the nose. Another major advancement of the same decade, in 1929, was Peer and Metzenbaum’s procedure, the first to correct the caudal septum, located behind the forehead.
In 1947, Cottle performed a closed, or endonasal, rhinoplasty for a deviated septum, which became the norm for rhinoplasty for several years. Most advocated for closed procedures until the 1970’s, when Padovan and Goodman each spoke to the benefits of an open rhinoplasty.
In the 1960’s, a non-surgical restorative procedure was used to fill in the soft tissues of the nose. Unfortunately, the silicone gels injected directly into the skin were causing ulcers and granulomas. Therefore, to preserve the benefits of the surgery and minimize risks, Orentreich developed the “microdroplet technique,” which involved injecting tiny amounts of silicone over several visits.
Lastly, Jack Anderson wrote an article, in 1982, entitled “Open Rhinoplasty; An Assessment,” which detailed the surgeon’s improvements upon older practices. Five years later, the article “External Approach for Secondary Rhinoplasty” moved nose reconstruction forward as it described a surgical approach for repairing an initially failed nose reconstruction. Thus, at last, there was an option for those whose original surgery had not worked as planned.
19th century rhinoplasty was an improvement over methods of prior centuries. Experimentation with more complicated techniques, in general, proved more effective. However, with new technologies and risks came new complications.
A non-surgical nose reconstruction technique was developed for individuals with saddle nose deformity, a defect that causes a collapsed nasal dorsum. Using liquid paraffin wax to lift the dorsum, it was effective in achieving the desired look. The problem was that the technique had to be abandoned when the patients started getting paraffinoma, a cancer caused by the wax.
The ancient work of a physician named Sushruta, his work being preserved in his medical compendium the “Sushruta Samhita,” was still in use during the 19th Century. His work dated back to 800 BC. But, it wasn’t until the 1700’s that his work became known to European physicians.
In 1815, Joseph Constantine Carpue wrote about a rhinoplasty performed on a wounded soldier whose nose had been all but destroyed in battle, and another patient whose nose had been damaged by arsenic. His work, the “Account of Two Successful Operations for Restoring a Lost Nose” became somewhat of a standard for the time.
In Germany, rhinoplasty was further improved upon when “Rhinoplastik” was published by German professor of surgery, Karl Ferdinand von Grafe, in 1818. This work described 55 different plastic surgical procedures, including those stemming from India and other countries. To these, he added his own creative version that used a graft from the patient’s arm to reconstruct the nose.
A favored student of Professor von Grafe, Johann Friedrich Dieffenbach, was the first to use anaesthesia for nasal reconstructive surgery. He wrote “Die Operativge Chirurgie,” which translated to English means, “Operative Surgery,” in 1845. This became a standard text in the use of rhinoplasty.
Finally, looking to the United States in the 19th century, John Orlando Roe was the surgeon who performed the first endonasal rhinoplasty (meaning that the surgery was a closed rhinoplasty). He wrote about it in “The Deformity Termed “Pug Nose” and its Correction, by a Simple Operation" in 1887. He also discussed the correction of the condition of saddle nose.
The "nose job" is not a gift of modern medicine. In fact, it stems mainly from the work of a physician from India in 800 BC. By the 1700’s, however, it had become more sophisticated and effective than the ancient methods.
Remarkably, the methods they used were adapted from the witnessing of the ancient Indian methods being performed. However, rather than using rolls from the castor-oil plant to form the nose, the procedure uses more technical advancements. Unfortunately, however, the procedure still involved taking skin from the face, leaving visible and significant scarring, rather than from somewhere else on the body.
The procedure was described by surgeons Thomas Cruso and James Findlay in the Madras Gazette and again in the Gentleman’s Magazine of London. They describe using wax to determine the amount of skin needed to shape a new nose. The wax is fitted over the area and shaped into a nose.
Then, the wax is laid flat on the forehead. The physician traces the wax plate and removes that much skin from the forehead. However, the skin is not completely detached.
Instead, the skin remains attached between the eyes, to preserve blood flow. The skin flap is then folded over and down to shape into a nose. The nose stump is sliced to allow an attachment. Then the surgeon attaches the sides and septum of the nose by stitching.
Finally, a cement of Terra Japonica is spread into thin sheets and 5 or 6 sheets are layered over the new nose. Four days later, this application is replaced with cloths dipped in ghee. 20 days into the hospitalization, the slip of skin left twisted is cut and placed smoothly against the forehead. Finally, soft cloth is placed into the nostrils to ensure proper openings.
Rhinoplasty, or reconstructive nose surgery, was first recorded as a practice in ancient Egypt, around 1500 B.C. Later, and most famously, it was performed by a doctor in India, Sushruta, in 800 B.C. An ancient document he wrote, called the Sushruta Samhita, details his methods for reconstructing body parts, including noses that were amputated in barbaric religious, military, or criminal punishment practices. He taught these techniques to his medical students who practiced them as well.
Sushruta’s methods involved grafting skin from the cheek to the nose, cutting the area that used to have the nose to form an open wound that the skin can be attached to. Tubes of the castor-oil plant were used to shape the nostrils. Various herbs and sesame oil were used for the healing of the new nose.
In Rome, circa 27 BC to AD 476, Aulus Cornelius Celsus wrote an 8-volume encyclopedia on surgical procedures. He described reconstructive surgery for the nose, along with other body parts that needed replacement or correction.
In the 300’s, Oribasius, physician to Emperor Julian the Apostate published a similar encyclopedia, albeit in 70 volumes. His method for reconstructive nasal surgery permitted reconstruction without distortion of the skin on the rest of the face.
In AD 920, Bald’s Leechbook, a manual for physicians, described a procedure for correcting a cleft lip. Surprisingly, in the 1200’s, the then ancient Sushruta’s medical compendium was translated worldwide and used in practices in Arabia, Persia, Egypt and even Western Europe.
Nearing modern times, in the 1500’s, Gasparo Taliacozzi, a surgery and anatomy professor for the University of Bologna, wrote a surgical procedure manual. This manual described procedures for repairing and reconstructing facial features for wounded soldiers. This procedure actually used muscle tissue from the biceps to help form the new flap of grafted skin into the shape of a nose.
The overall history of ancient Greece is dramatic. The styles and beauty trends from that time are just as dramatic and bold. From cosmetic trends from skin enhancing, to eyebrows, to lips, Greek women were not afraid of makeup.
Skin trends of the ancient Greeks may surprise some. This group of people may often be thought of as having glowing, golden skin, but light skin was considered the height of beauty and fashion. Women used chalk and white lead to lighten their skin. They did not know that the materials that they were using were dangerous and toxic.
Keeping skin clear and soft was also a high priority in the Greek culture. Honey and olive oil were both used for cleaning and moisturizing the skin. Both honey and olive oil are used in many lotions and health care products today. For instance, Burts Bees has created a successful cosmetics brand based on natural bee materials in their products.
Makeup in the Greek ancient culture was worn by high society daily. Many women would use eyeliner made with olive oil and charcoal to darken their eyes. This eyeliner was also used to create a thick brow, which was very popular at that time. Red iron oxide was mixed with beeswax to create a shiny and long lasting lip balm.
We still use many materials in our cosmetics and beauty products that the Ancient Greeks used in the past. These include olive oil, honey and beeswax. We no longer use harmful materials such as chalk and lead in our cosmetics. This has been linked to a shortened life span and disease of people that were living in Greece at that time.
Not many people can think of Egyptian beauty without thinking of Cleopatra. But, what did she really look like? What were her beauty secrets? She shared many of the same cleansing and cosmetic trends of her time and was even said to have created some of her own that are still popular today.
Healthy skin is an important part of beauty in any culture. Unhealthy skin can be a sign of bad health and uncleanliness. Ancient Egyptians took the health of their skin very seriously. Egyptians of all social statuses used soaps containing almond oil and vegetable oil to keep their skin looking clean and hydrated.
Egyptians of high social statuses preferred to bathe in milk to soften the skin. Milk contains a lactic acid and creates radiance in the skin that is hard to beat. Currently in the U.S. and many other countries around the world, lactic acid can be found in skin and body cleansers.
The ancient Egyptians are also known for their elaborate eye makeup. Men and women both wore creative and bold eye shadow designs that were believed to be protection against the sun’s rays and evil. This makeup was made of products such as kohl and malachite.
The best beauty trend that Cleopatra may have offered the world is the spa. Some historians believe that Cleopatra created the first spa by demanding that a calm and relaxing palace be built near the Dead Sea. The Dead Sea offered water rich in minerals and wonderful for the skin. Elements from the Dead Sea are still produced today.
The history of cosmetics and beauty standards through the ages and through various parts of the world is extremely interesting and eye opening. There are many common beauty standards as well as standards that differ greatly by culture and age group. We are going to bring you a series explaining new and old beauty trends from around the world.
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Even though beauty standards are different throughout the world, the concept of beauty still remains the same. Those individuals that are considered beautiful are emulated and gazed at. Some beauties, such as the famous Mona Lisa are talked about for centuries after their deaths.
Some of the most beautiful women in history are still being emulated. These women include Cleopatra and Nefertiti from Egypt and the ancient goddesses from Rome and Greece. We will be looking at multiple places to see beauty trends and famous women, and some men, in the series.
If you are feeling like making a drastic change in your appearance, you might find inspiration in the beauty standards of the past. Each culture that we present will bring interesting and unique thoughts and beauty behaviors.
Are facial expressions emotional or social? This is an age-old question in the world of nature vs. nurture. Facial expressions are created with facial muscle movements. In all of the world a smile means happiness and joy, while a scowl means anger and disapproval. But, is this the cause of a very ancient social language or is it innate?
There have been numerous studies to provide information and insight into the question. Recently, in the last decade, scientists have tested blind persons vs. seeing persons for similar facial expressions. The blind cannot learn a social facial expression by watching others. Their expressions are innate.
The results of these studies were interesting and showed that facial expressions were emotional, not social. The emotions portrayed by a seeing person and blind people were quite similar. This proved that the facial expressions were not a learned social behavior.
But, do social facial expressions also exist? Yes, of course. A smile in passing or at a person on the street may express something much different than happiness or joy. It may be a social technique that is learned. In different cultures, smiles in social situations are not appropriate where they would be in other cultures. Some expressions are social not emotional.
Acne can be an issue for people of all ages. Though acne is a common issue for teenagers, children and adults often experience acne as well. Here are many tips to help prevent and treat acne.
Avoid Touching Your Face- Dirt and bacteria on hands can cause acne to become worse. Even touching your face with clean hands can also cause sensitive facial skin to become irritated. Natural oils on the hands will often cause the additional irritation.
Use the Right Cleanser- Many times cleansers can contribute to skin issues. If a person is using a harsh soap it may cause acne. Also, if someone uses a cleanser that is not made for their age or skin type they can experience blemishes.
Exercise Regularly- Exercising can help to rid your body of toxins. It can also help to reduce stress levels. Both toxins and stress can contribute to acne.
Eat a Clean Diet- Eating clean, by avoiding food with added oils, saturated fats and preservatives can help your overall health and the health of your skin. Also, be sure to drink the recommended amount of water daily.
Regular Skin Treatments- Estheticians can recommend skin treatments such as photo facials and laser resurfacing that can clear up dermatological issues quickly and effectively.
Permanent makeup, also known as cosmetic tattooing, is becoming increasingly popular in the United States. Women enjoy the ease of waking up each morning with a fresh looking face. Also women and men that have health issues that have impeded the growth of eyebrows such as chemotherapy or alopecia have been able to permanently restore the look of their brows.
The benefits of permanent makeup are based on the individual and the specific makeup that they have had applied through the cosmetic tattoo process. The most common areas to add the pigment include eyes, lips and eyebrows. It is also common for women to add beauty marks to their face with permanent makeup techniques.
The results of permanent makeup are immediate. For the first few days following the procedure, the face may be swollen and the area may appear darker than planned. But the swelling will go down and the face will fade into a lighter hue within less than a week. Touch ups are often necessary to create the perfect shape and color for lips and eyebrows. Touch ups will also be part of a regular maintenance plan.
If you are considering permanent makeup, do your research. Be certain of what colors you would like to have applied to your skin. Requesting a consultation is also important. A professional may have good suggestions and can share pictures of individuals that have had similar pigments applied to their skin in the process.
There are a great number of causes of hair loss, and many of them are quite common. Some of these causes can be prevented or treated, while others cannot. Cosmetic surgeons can offer hair restoration solutions to those that experience severe hair loss and cannot be treated for the loss.
Some of the most common causes of hair loss include genetic baldness, chemotherapy treatments, alopecia and other diseases such as lupus.
Genetic baldness is common for men in their late 40’s. But, many women and young men also experience genetic baldness as well. This can be a challenging condition to face. There are not many effective pharmaceutical treatments for genetic baldness. Many people that experience this condition have had success with the help of a cosmetic surgeon and hair restoration techniques.
Chemotherapy causes temporary hair loss. It may only take a few months after treatment to begin to see hair grow back. Many people that have lost the hair in their brows do not want to wait for their brows to grow back. There are options to create the look of healthy brows through permanent cosmetics.
People who experience hair loss related to disease such as lupus or alopecia may see hair health increase from eating healthy, iron rich diets. But, they may also experience thinning hair on the brows. They too may benefit greatly from permanent cosmetics. Hair thickness can fluctuate when a disease is being treated and the fluctuation will not be apparent in the brows if they are permanently applied.
Bells palsy is a type of paralysis that affects the face. In more than 90% of all cases, only about half of the face is affected. In a very small amount of cases, the entire face can be paralyzed. Also, in most cases the paralysis seems to happen overnight. This can cause the disorder to be very alarming to those who suffer with it that wake up without warning to a partially functioning face.
Many times the paralysis can be caused by nerve damage or nerve disruption, brain damage, stroke or even lyme disease. If left untreated, any of these can cause further paralysis or death. Minor cases may be left untreated and may heal on their own. But only an experienced doctor can prescribe the right type of action and treatment.
There are many types of treatments available. Some are proven to be more effective than others. Corticosteroids and ant-viral drugs are commonly prescribed based on the expected cause of Bells Palsy in an individual. Early treatment with either of these drugs is crucial to stop the affect of permanent facial paralysis.
Smile surgery or dynamic reconstruction surgery is a procedure developed to help restore the look of the face for an individual that experiences permanent paralysis due to Bells Palsy. These surgeries can restore function and nerve activity in the face. Cosmetic surgeons with experience in smile surgery can recommend a surgery based on an individual’s needs.
There are many excuses for not washing our faces at night. These include being too tired to wash our faces before going to sleep, not washing our faces because we didn’t wear makeup all day, not wanting to “strip” the face of natural softening oils and more. But there are many more reasons to wash our faces than there are excuses.
Washing your face before going to sleep will help to shed your face of dry skin. Also, moisturizer applied on a dirty face will not be able to penetrate the surface of the dermis well. If you have trouble remembering to wash your face right before bed, wash your face early in the evening. Remember to apply moisturizer immediately after washing.
Even if you did not wear makeup all day, your face will still be dirty and need to be washed at the end of every day. Environmental pollutants that are in the air both indoors and outdoors are caked on the skin by the end of the day. Wearing a light foundation or a lotion with SPF is actually recommended to create a barrier between the facial skin and the environment.
If you are worried that your facial cleanser will dry out your skin, find a cleanser that contains moisturizing ingredients. Use this cleanser in a three day cycle to wash your face. On the third day you can use a cleanser with glycolic acid that can lightly wash away dry skin and reveal a more glowing and softer face.
If you experience dark circles under your eyes, you are not alone. Many people experience dark circles under their eyes frequently or even chronically. These circles can have a negative effect causing others to believe you are ill or tired. There are a few different causes of these menacing shadows. If you are looking to treat the circles with surgery or a cream, you will want to find out why you have the circles first.
Genetics: If you have deep-set eyes or large eyelids this may cause your eyes to appear to have large and gray shadows under them, even when you are not sleepy at all.
Iron Deficiencies: Anemia and other related iron deficiencies can cause the eyes to appear dark and heavy.
Allergies: Allergies can cause very droopy looking lids and dark shadows around the eyes.
Dehydration: If you are not drinking the recommended amount of liquid per day, you may be dehydrated if you notice dark circles under the eyes.
Depending on the reasons for dark circles under your eyes, doctors and cosmetic surgeons can recommend a treatment. Many times cosmetic professionals will work to determine what is causing the dark circles before recommending any type of cosmetic procedure.
Maintaining a youthful appearance has been a challenge for women and men throughout the centuries. Through time, we have found trusted and proven methods for keeping wrinkles at bay for as long as possible.
Use SPF: You must use SPF daily to prevent sun damage. SPF can be found in moisturizers, tinted moisturizers and even in cosmetics. These products should be worn everyday, even if you are not in full contact with the sun.
Use Wrinkle Prevention Creams: Moisturizers that are recommended based on your age and skin tip by a cosmetic professional can work wonders. Keeping your skin moisturized and providing it with the right vitamins and minerals can help to prevent early signs of aging.
Drink Plenty of Water: Dehydration can cause the face to appear ruddy and wrinkled. Hydration will help to keep skin on the entire body taught and looking youthful.
Cosmetic Resurfacing: Resurfacing facials and procedures can create instant positive reactions for people seeking to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on their face. These procedures are usually gentle and offer immediate results.
Before spending hundreds or thousands of dollars on expensive creams and procedures speak to a professional dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon. They can help you to understand what types of treatments are available and what will work best with your specific aging needs.
Dermatologists and estheticians will tell you that it is much easier to prevent sun damage than to repair sun damage on the skin. People of all ages need to properly protect themselves from sun damage that can cause wrinkles, early signs of aging and skin cancer.
It is not difficult to prevent sun damage. There are several ways to prevent the sun from hurting your skin that can be easily added to your regular daily routine. To be effective, these prevention methods should be applied every single day. Remember that the sun’s powerful rays can reach your skin even on a cloudy day.
Use an SPF moisturizer: Using a moisturizer with an SPF on the face everyday will help to protect the skin. If you wear cosmetics, the SPF should be applied under makeup. Find a moisturizer specifically made for applying to the face to avoid any products with ingredients that may clog pores.
Wear Sunglasses: Wearing large shades when driving and when outdoors will protect the very fragile and thin skin around the eyes. This skin is prone to aging and sun damage. Sunglasses with UV protection will help to prevent sun exposure.
The sun will reach your skin even with prevention methods. If you notice color spots or any skin growths see a medical professional immediately. Skin care and sun damage prevention include regular trips to a doctor.
What exactly is an age spot? How can age spots be prevented and how can they be removed?
An age spot is a brown spot on the skin. As we age we will get age spots from exposure to the sun. As the body ages it is not able to fight off all of the UV rays it has been exposed to. This will cause damage to the skin resulting in the brown age spots.
Sun damage, including age spots, wrinkles and even skin cancer, can be prevented by avoiding overexposure to the sun. SPF should be worn daily and the sun should be avoided. Sun bathing and tanning in salons should be ruled out of the beauty routine. Cosmetics with bronzers and tinted lotions can create the same glow on the skin that the sun can create without the risks.
Removal of age spots can often be treated with high-end creams and lasers. The type of treatment will vary depending on the darkness and size of a specific age spot. A professional esthetician or dermatologist will recommend treatment for an individual. All spots must be seen by a professional to rule out cancerous appearances.
A cleft lip is caused in the gestation period of an infant’s development resulting from a congenital deformity. Many infants that are born with a cleft lip are also born with a cleft palate. This is a fairly common disorder, affecting 1 out of every 700 children in the world.
A cleft lip can be caused by other disorders. Infants with cleft lips should be tested for these disorders that include Stickler’s syndrome, Treacher Collin’s Syndrome and other craniofacial syndromes before a surgical treatment is attempted. A surgeon will need to have all information available about a child or adult’s health background.
It is recommended that children correct the cleft lip as early as possible. This will reduce the chance for scarring in the area. It will also reduce any chances that a child could develop psychosocial issues influenced by stigmatization of their appearance in their youth.
A surgeon can recommend a specific procedure depending on the severity of the malformation. The surgery will oftentimes involve working with muscle tissue and craniofacial areas. A surgeon with prior experience working with children and adults with cleft lips and cleft palates should be found to complete the surgery and treatment.
Hair is made of several components, but the main component and most commonly known is keratin. Keratin is a protein that is also responsible for the growth of fingernails. Hair is comprised of many layers, including the cuticle and the medulla. Hair grows in a three-phase structure. The average person loses 100 individual hairs per day due to a 3-phase growth pattern.
Phase 1 Anagen- This phase can last up to 8 years. It is the primary phase for hair growth and creates a hair shaft. The shaft is surrounded by keratin and this keeps it strong enough to come out of a pore. The growth rate for this phase differs by individual and this phase determines how long a person’s hair can grow. If an indivdual’s anagen phase is typically shorter than average, their hair will stop growing sooner than average. This is one reason some woman have difficulty growing their hair past their shoulders.
Phase 2 Catagen- The second hair growth phase only lasts for about one month. It is a transitionary phase. The hair is no longer growing, but does not fall out. The follicle will become smaller and begins to disintegrate allowing a new hair follicle to emerge.
Phase 3 Telogen-This is the third and final hair growth phase. In this phase, the hair follicle will actually fall out. This accounts for most of the hair that can be seen falling out daily in the shower or in a comb.
Abnormal hair loss can occur due to disease, genetics or poor eating habits. Some diseases that can cause hair loss include thyroid disorders, immune disorders and skin disorders.
Serious diseases that can cause hair loss include thyroid and autoimmune disorders. Once a patient has been tested and cleared of any of these disorders, they may want to look at lifestyle choices that could be affecting their hair growth. Diet and hair style products can help to improve hair growth and prevent future hair loss.
Protein deficiencies can cause hair loss. If an individual experiences hair loss they can add healthy sources of protein to their diet including lean red meats and broccoli. A physician may be able to prescribe a healthy diet plan that is rich in protein and minerals responsible for preventing further hair loss.
Topical nutrient deficiencies can also cause hair loss. These can be created by over processing hair with hair products or chemical treatments. Shampoo, conditioner and other products including nutrients that are necessary for growth are essential to healthy hair.
Genetic predispositions for hair loss are the leading causes of hair loss. There is little that one can do to improve hair loss if they are predisposed to baldness. Simply improving diet and hair care products will not suffice. There are hair loss rejuvenation resources available for those that have lost most of their hair or would like to improve thinning hair-lines. They are available for both men and women.
Before having any elective surgery performed, one must understand common complications. Any surgery involves a certain amount of risk. There are currently many types of facelift surgeries available and they all have their own rate of frequency contributed to risks.
Some of the most popular facelift surgeries available today are less invasive and include thread lifts and barb suture lifts. Although they are less invasive, they still can have ill side effects and risks. These procedures have a low risk of creating Stensen duct laceration and suture visibility. Both of these can be repaired by an experienced surgeon.
Traditional facelifts have greater risks of causing nerve damage, hematoma, bruising, infection, hair loss around the areas of incision and other unmentioned risks. Some of these can be repaired with the help of a surgeon, while others will be lifelong issues.
To avoid unnecessary risks, follow all of a doctor’s preliminary operation and post operation instructions. This will create the best overall results, but there is no clear way to predict what issues can occur during the healing process.
Rhinoplasty cosmetic procedures are one of the most difficult facial surgeries to master. A surgeon must have an eye for the aesthetic as well as skill at working with the cartilage, bone and flesh around the nose. Unlike facelift sutures or breast implant capsular contraction complications that can be hidden, most rhinoplasty complications are very noticeable. Those that are not noticeable to the eye include breathing and sleeping issues. The most common complications affiliated with rhinoplasty include:
Dissatisfaction with nose shape: Many patients go to a surgeon looking for ways to improve their appearance. Many times the patients are surprised and unsatisfied with their nose to a larger degree after they have had surgery. This can lead to psychological distress and body dysmorphic disorders.
Soft tissue complications: This occurs in up to 10% of all rhinoplasty procedures. Depending on the severity, it may need to be repaired by an experienced surgeon.
Infection: Infection and slow healing are complications often associated with any medical, especially surgical, procedure. Most infections can be prevented by patient compliancy in preoperative and postoperative guidelines given by a doctor and other medical support staff.
Men and women have experimented with a variety of hair removal methods using technology for the last 100 years. In addition to the regular razor we have seen items such as epilators and techniques such as electrolysis used to remove hair from different areas of the body. It wasn’t until recently that laser hair removal was introduced to the public in the United States.
Laser hair removal, also known as intense pulsed light epilator removal, was tested and experimented with for over 20 years before it became widely available to the public. It is now available in medical spas and dermatologist facilities.
The procedure is quite simple. An individual must have a hair type that is adequate for laser hair removal. They will have several sessions to remove the hair with the proper interval between each session. After all sessions are complete an individual should expect 90% or more of their hair in the effected area to be permanently removed.
There are a few common side effects to the treatment. These include irritated, itchy skin and swelling. The side effects usually only last for a couple of hours to a couple of days. A medical laser removal professional can also recommend ways to prepare skin that can reduce skin irritation issues.
Laser hair removal is a very popular procedure for permanent body hair removal. The laser used for the procedure was tested for over 20 years before it was widely available to the public. With multiple treatments over a period of time most individuals will be able to achieve 90% permanent hair removal. Most people get retouch treatments every 3-5 years.
Hair removal lasers work by directing light onto a hair follicle. This concentrated light will cause damage to the hair follicle and stop future growth. The hair must be in the primary growth phase for the laser to be effective. This is one reason why the procedure can take up to 12 treatments.
Depending on the individual’s pain tolerance and the area of the body where the removal is taking place, pain can be minimal to intermediate. The laser will cause the pores of the skin to be open for about 3 days after the procedure. This can cause skin irritation and swelling. Most laser removal professionals will be able to recommend an over the counter antibacterial cream that will soothe the skin and prevent irritation.
Men and women can both benefit from hair removal treatments. Leg hair and underarm hair removal are among the most popular for women, while common treatments for men include back hair removal and shoulder hair removal. Facial treatments using specific lasers are also available for removing hair from the upper lip or on the neck area.
Rhinoplasty is a procedure that can make a huge impact on the overall balance of the face. Many patients are seeking a procedure to enhance the balance of the face and to reduce the appearance of their present nose shape. Here are some of the common nose shapes that are adjusted during rhinoplasty procedures.
Nose hump: A hump in the nose is usually either genetic or the result of injury. Removal of these humps is one of the most commonly requested procedures. A surgeon will have to make slight adjustments to the rest of the nasal area in addition to removing the hump to create an aesthetically pleasing balance.
Tip projection: This is a procedure that requires advanced work to areas containing a large percentage of cartilage. A doctor will be able to recommend the best procedure to create overall facial balance with the most minimal amount of risk of nasal collapse. The bridge of the nose may also need adjustment to create the right facial structure to support tip adjustments.
Saddle nose: A saddle nose is usually the result of trauma to the nose and can also occur after an infection. The saddle nose has a lowered appearance on the bridge of the nose. This can also have a negative impact on breathing deeply and sleep patterns. Rhinoplasty surgery can usually enhance the appearance of a nose and correct saddle nose internally as well.
Humans have used many types of skin abrasion methods to remove dull, dead skin cells and to create a more youthful appearance for centuries. Research shows that people in Egypt, thousands of years ago, used a technique similar to microdermabrasion without technology by using a coarse paper material to shed away dead skin layers.
Microdermabrasion, as we know it today, was developed in Europe in the mid 1980’s, Italy to be exact. Two Italian doctors developed it, Dr. Mattioli and Dr. Brutt. The technique soon became incredibly popular. It was introduced in the United States in the 1990’s.
It is a non-invasive procedure that can help improve the appearance of skin by reducing hyperpigmentation, sunspots, wrinkles and scarring from acne. By using the technique, the skin will be more responsive to skin moisturizing and age defying products as well. Regular treatments can create good results.
There are several types of techniques and buffing treatments available. Some treatments use aluminum oxide and others use organic materials such as grains for the penetration and infusion portion of the treatment. If you are considering the treatment, ask your medical spa expert about options and results from the microdermabrasion techniques that they offer.
Many people are recognizing the benefits of chemical peels for facial rejuvenation. These peels can help create a more youthful appearance without having to experience any of the downtime or greater risks that are associated with full face lift surgical procedures. There are several different types of chemical peels available.
A professional with chemical peel experience should administer all chemical peels. The professional can recommend the peel that will benefit an individual and give them the specific results that they are looking for in their skin. Some basic types of chemical peels are phenol peels, beta hydroxy peels and alpha hydroxy peels.
Phenol Peel: A Phenol peel is one of the strongest chemical peels available. It is used to reduce the appearance of deep wrinkles and age spots. It may permanently remove freckles and permanently lighten the skin.
Beta Hydroxy Peel: Beta hydroxy has become increasingly popular because it is a milder peel with the ability to control acne and remove dull, dead skin cells. It will reduce the look of fine lines as well. This is a good option for an introductory peel.
Alpha Hydroxy Peel: This is one of the most requested peels in the United States. Many people already use the main component of this peel, glycolic acid, in a smaller percentage in daily skin care products. Glycolic acid can help to even skin tone and reduce the look of fine lines. These peels can cause mild irritation and redness in the skin.
Eyelid Surgery is also known as blepharoplasty or an eyelift. This procedure is designed to create a more youthful and alert appearance. It can help to minimize the appearance of puffiness and bags around the eyes by removing skin that is in excess around the affected areas.
In addition to improving the appearance of the eyes, eyelid surgery can also help to improve the sight of many older patients. Many times excess skin will droop down to the vision areas and greatly obstruct eye sight. This is a problem that glasses simply can’t fix.
An eyelid surgery is oftentimes paired with secondary facial surgical procedures such as brow lifts. The results of the surgery are long lasting, but in 5-10 years the lids may again begin to sag and show greater signs of aging.
Recovery time for this type of procedure varies with the age and health of the patient and the degree of skin that is removed. But generally the recovery time is 1-2 weeks at most. Most individuals experience bruising and puffiness of the lid area for the first 1-2 weeks during the recovery period and can expect the soreness to last throughout the recovery time noted.
The eyelid aging process is mostly hereditary. Creams and lotions will not help skin to become tighter or more youthful looking after it has aged and started to sag. This procedure can help to improve the overall look of the lids and can also improve the overall line of vision.
There are two main types of surgery for the nose. These two main types of surgery include the popular rhinoplasty and the less commonly talked about septoplasty.
Rhinoplasty is a cosmetic surgery procedure that contributes to the reshaping and overall contouring of the nose. There are many techniques that can be used for this surgery. Surgeons have created better and less invasive procedures in the last 10 years.
Rhinoplasty can correct many different irregularities in the nose. These irregularities include the slope of a nose, the tip and the shape of the bulb of the nose and correction of bumps and unilaterally placed cartilage.
Septoplasty is a surgery that is also reconstructive and is used to improve breathing by reshaping the nasal cavities to improve overall function. Many people know this surgery more commonly as the surgery to correct a deviated septum. But, there are several other reasons one would choose to have this procedure.
It is common for a patient to consult a doctor about septoplasty that experiences allergies associated with mucosal swelling regularly. Also, patients that have nasal polyps may also consider septoplasty surgery procedures.
Recovery from both surgeries is usually similar depending on the specific procedures used by the surgeon and the health and overall immunity of the patient. Most patients can expect swelling and bruising around the face and the eyes.
Every doctor will have different techniques in the surgery and for compression of the nose. It is important for a patient to understand the benefits of the techniques that their doctor chooses to use. During a consultation, most doctors will address this and also provide patients with information regarding risks associated with the surgical procedure. The consultation is an important time to consider the desires of the patient and the realistic availability of those desires with the surgery.
Doctors may suggest a septoplasty along with a rhinoplasty if a patient complains about symptoms associated with conditions that can be repaired with the surgical procedure.
Botox is a brand name for botulinum toxin. Botulinum toxin is a nuetrotoxic protein. In cosmetic procedures Botox helps to temporarily eliminate frown and brow lines and wrinkles.
Botox received FDA approval to be used in cosmetic procedures more than 10 years ago. It is the most used injectable for cosmetic procedures currently in the United States. It was officially approved for use for frown lines in 2002.
Botox is extremely popular for cosmetic procedures. It is an outpatient procedure that creates instant, noticeable results. Facelifts have lost much of their popularity due to the low cost and high availability of Botox.
The results gained from Botox in facial cosmetic procedures can last from 3 to 8 months total. The benefits of receiving this treatment include reduction of brow lines and other facial wrinkles.
The placement and injection of Botox should be administered by a cosmetic professional. These professionals understand facial muscles and techniques associated with proper injection procedures.
There are also many non-cosmetic used for Botox. One popular procedure is to place botox under the armpit to reduce perspiration. It has also been used to reduce muscle spasms in disorders associated with muscle pain symptoms.
Additional non-cosmetic uses of Botox are very popular for common medical issues. Some of these common medical issues include migraines, TMJ disorders, excessive salivating, Blephorospasm and Cervical dystonia among many others.
The popularity of Botox has grown considerably within the last decade. Over 11 million men and women have used Botox in their cosmetic procedures successfully and are happy with the overall results.
Hair restoration has become a highly requested cosmetic plastic surgery procedure for men and women who do not respond to hair restoration drugs or are not willing to accept some of the harsh side affects that can be associated with the prescription drugs.
A hair restoration treatment works by using a relocation technique. Hair near the back of the head is usually resistant to baldness. This hair can be taken from the rear of the head and moved or transplanted to the areas where balding or thinning occurs.
These areas will continue to see growth and will look very natural. The hair, when placed correctly, will look natural when styled and will feel natural to the touch after it has been given a full treatment cycle time period.
A professional and experienced surgeon should be consulted for this surgery. They can recommend specific techniques to best fit your anti-hair loss and replacement needs. Requesting before and after pictures and patient recommendations is acceptable when considering this type of enhancement.
Many patients are very concerned about pain in the hair restoration procedure. The procedures are low to no pain. This is due to the use of a local anesthetic. After the surgery, a patient will typically feel mild discomfort and soreness in the transplant areas.
The procedure can vary in length, but it is an outpatient treatment. The time will vary greatly due to the experience of the surgeon and the amount of hair that will need to be restored.
The recovery time for hair restoration is short. A patient will experience redness and often small scabs as the affected areas heal. This process usually takes a full week. Afterwards, the hair loss will not be unnoticeable and natural looking.
To learn more about hair restoration and if it is a procedure that you would benefit from, contact a hair restoration professional and request a consultation. They can answer questions in depth and recommend the procedures that will be right for you.
Skin rejuvenation, the commonly used term by aestheticians, dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons, encompasses a variety of procedures that correct different types of skin deficiencies that cause aging in the skin.
Some of the types of problems that skin rejuvenation helps to reduce include wrinkles, loose areas in the skin, dark spots, blotchiness and damaged blood vessels. There are a variety of procedures to correct each problem based on a person’s specific age, skin type and desired benefits.
Some of the least invasive corrective treatments for skin rejuvenation include chemical peels, high glycolic acid product based facials and microdermabrasion. These are usually treatments that must be continued for several weeks to show strong results in the skin.
Laser treatments can also correct many skin issues including wrinkles and dark spots. Laser technology has improved tremendously in the past decade and experienced individuals can recommend treatments based on the results that a client is looking for.
Fillers such as Botox and Juvederm usually have more immediate results. These products can fill in wrinkled areas. They can also create a more youthful appearance for the face. The results of these products last for months before a follow up procedure is necessary.
There are new and improved procedures available yearly. A youthful appearance is important for many in our society today and industry professionals can be consulted to find out what procedures would work best for you.
Skin cancer removal areas, especially when removed from the face, can leave scarring and unwanted affects. The face is the most expressive part of the body and the first thing that people look at when communicating with one another.
Many plastic surgeons have learned to use their artistic skills to correct areas of the body and the face that have been affected by skin cancer removal. Skin cancer reconstruction surgeries have had many positive affects for cancer survivors that want to improve the look of their faces.
There are several different types of procedures based on the needs and wants of the patient. Many of the procedures involve using skin grafts to repair areas on the lips, nose, eyelids and ears.
The procedures used are created to not only enhance and improve the overall look of the affected area, but also to greatly improve the function of any functional areas such as the lips or eyes. An experienced plastic surgeon will be able to recommend procedures that can improve both the form and the function.
Depending on the complications of the cancer and the size of the area affected, the reconstructive surgical procedure may take more than one surgery. Anesthesia is often used and the patients are treated with great care during the entire process.
Plastic surgery has become more popular and more common in the last ten years. There is no longer a stigmatism associated with men and women who receive plastic surgery procedures for a more youthful appearance.
A procedure that is rising to popularity recently is the brow lift. The brow lift is not a new procedure, but it is becoming increasingly requested as the public understands the methods and benefits in association with the procedure.
A brow lift, also sometimes referred to as a forehead lift, can benefit a patient by creating a more youthful appearance. A forehead lift will minimize lines that appear in the forehead.
Many people consider a brow lift for reasons in addition to achieving a youthful looking appearance. A brow lift can help to reshape a low brow that has not been created with age, but from a naturally genetic low brow appearance.
A brow lift is a minimally invasive surgery that will leave small to no scarring areas. The incision, if placed correctly by an experienced surgeon, will be placed at the hair line. This will allow the area to blend in well and as the area heals, the line can be hidden with hair easily.
There are new techniques for minimally invasive plastic surgery procedures created and requested through the plastic surgery community every year. An experienced plastic surgeon can recommend the best techniques for you and your specific desires and needs.
The recovery time for a brow lift is relatively short. Most people can return to work in less than a week after receiving the surgery. Many people are worried that they may have a frozen look while they are healing. The forehead will actually look similar to having received a recent botox treatment.
Unlike botox, a brow lift is a permanent procedure. A lowered brow cannot be corrected with botox. But, a brow lift is an excellent procedure for someone looking to improve the look of their forehead or brow area.
Facial trauma can be the result of several different factors. Automobile accidents and domestic abuse are some of the leading causes of facial trauma. The reconstruction process will vary based on the severity of the trauma and by the recommendations of the doctor.
In addition to cosmetic improvements, this type of surgery is often times necessary to repair damage to the function of the eyes, mouth and nose. Many times the primary purpose of the surgery is to ease breathing capabilities that were obstructed by the trauma.
Facial trauma reconstructive surgeries can range from short surgical procedures to long procedures spanning over an 8-hour period, depending on the specific case. The primary goal is to repair breathing capabilities and the secondary goal is to repair any damage that is cosmetically displeasing.
Trauma victims may need to receive reconstructive surgery quickly to have good results. But there are times where the trauma has been too great and the patient must heal before receiving surgery.
The results of this type of surgery can be truly amazing in restoring function and form in the face. But patients must also be careful to follow all instructions before and after the procedure to experience the best results and to avoid any complications.
Otoplasty and microtia repair both involve surgeries that cosmetically improve and enhance the appearance of the ears. Both of these surgeries are used to improve the outer portion of the ears and earlobes.
Otoplasty is a cosmetic surgery that can vary greatly depending on a patient’s needs and desires. This procedure could involve pinning ears closer to the head, reduction of ears or lobes, reshaping specific areas on the ear and repairing any ear damage from accidents or facial trauma.
Microtia repair uses many of the same techniques found in regular otoplasty procedures. Microtia causes malformed and misshaped ears that is many times related to childhood syndromes such as Treacher Collins Syndrome and Goldenhar syndrome. Many children who suffer from these syndromes are treated with surgery in their youth.
Although many children benefit from the surgery at a young age, older patients who suffered effects of the same or similar syndromes often choose to have otoplasty surgery and ear reconstructive surgeries later in their adulthood. Experienced surgeons will consult with patients to discuss realistic improvements that can be made.
Outer ears that are misshaped or malformed can be repaired and reshaped to create a symmetrical and cosmetically pleasing look. Otoplasty is a common surgical procedure that can improve the appearance of the ear and can be used for repairs of damage caused by childhood syndromes that have negative effects on the ears and lobes.
Scar revision procedures can help scars to appear less noticeable. These procedures range from non-invasive procedures that often use laser technology to more invasive surgical procedures. The procedure that is recommended by a professional will depend on the type of scar and where it is present on the body.
Scars that are most often removed through scar revision procedures are from accidents, illnesses that have caused scarring or primary surgeries that have left scarring such as a cleft lip surgery. There are certain professionals that specialize in specific types of scars.
Deep facial scars that cannot be diminished through simple aesthetic procedures or laser technology procedures are the type of surgeries that patients most often choose to be removed or repaired through facial scar revision surgeries. The results of the procedure will depend on the depth of the scar initially and the placement of the scar on the face.
There are certain areas on the face and the body that will be more difficult to repair. Revision procedures work best when the affected area is the same tone and tightness as the surrounding skin. This can be difficult to repair on eyelids or other sensitive areas that may take longer to heal.
Cosmetic surgeons and dermatologists have improved many procedures with the availability of new technologies. Case studies and before and after pictures can be found online and by request through many physician’s offices.
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