What is Tumescent Liposuction

January 19th, 2010

Tumescent Liposuction Overview

The tumescent technique may be the reason liposuction is the number one surgical cosmetic surgery in the United States (according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons).

Tumescent Liposuction or “Tumescent Liposculpting” procedure is one of the safest, most effective methods of liposuction, and has been available since the mid-1980s. Although tumescent liposuction is relatively new in the world of cosmetic surgery, it has become extremely popular because of its unique combination of safety and accuracy.

Tumescent liposuction is simplified compared to other liposuction methods. The tumescent liposuction advantage is two-fold: first; it only requires local anesthesia, and second; it is minimally invasive requiring only a few tiny incisions.  Those factors reduce the recovery time to about 24-48 hours. All liposuction surgical techniques are meant to improve the body’s contour by removing fat deposits located between the skin and muscle but the tumescent liposuction technique can do this much more accurately and remove more of the fat layer. This is possible because in tumescent liposuction, the patient is usually awake which allows the surgeon to feel the patient’s muscle tone alongside the fat layer. This is a huge advantage of tumescent liposuction and really lets an experienced surgeon in the tumescent technique take more fat than tradition liposuction methods. When a patient is more sedated as with more traditional liposuction methods, the surgeon usually errors on the side of being more conservative in the removal of fat.

Tumescent Liposuction Technology

Tumescent liposuction, sometimes referred to as liposcultping, incorporates use of a very small stainless steel tube called a cannula (from the Latin word for reed, tube, cane). The cannula used in tumescent liposuction is connected to a powerful vacuum and inserted into the fat through small incisions in the skin. Fat removal is accomplished as the suction cannula creates tiny tunnels through the fatty layers. After a tumescent liposuction, as the body heals the patient is left with a much thinner fat layer.
Many modified forms of tumescent liposuction exist today with different levels of sedation. The word “tumescent liposuction” comes from the true essence and definition of Tumescent anesthesia. The definition of Tumescent anesthesia is to use local anesthesia to inject or “tumesce” (make firm with fluid) the fat and skin layers. Tumescent anesthesia not only makes the areas numb, but also acts to constrict the blood vessels in the area so there is almost negligible blood loss. This is truly what leads to such a rapid recovery when your surgeon uses the Tumescent liposuction technique.

Tumescent Liposuction’s Main Advantage

In Tumescent liposuction there is less bleeding and this means much less post operative swelling and this is what allows patients to be back on their feet again the very next day. This is a huge advancement of Tumescent liposuction over more tradition methods of liposuction. The other amazing fact about tumescent liposuction is that it can be combined with other liposuction techniques. Often other liposuction modalities are performed first to loosen the fat and then the surgeon removes what is left through the tumescent liposuction technique.

Other Benefits and Advantages of Tumescent Liposuction

In Tumescent liposuction patients do not need general anesthesia. Most patients receive no sedation or only minor sedation to help them relax and are completely comfortable and awake during the Tumescent liposuction surgery. Post operative discomfort after a tumescent liposuction is significantly reduced since the local anesthesia is effective for 8-16 hours after surgery.

The suction tubes used in the tumescent liposuction technique are very thin and minimize the amount of trauma produced. The incisions usually heal nicely with few if any sutures. There is minimal scarring.

After a tumescent liposuction surgery patients can get up and walk out of the office themselves, and are usually back to their regular routine in a couple of days.

Tumescent liposuction provides several advantages over traditional liposuction:

  • Using local anesthesia in tumescent liposuction instead of general anesthesia eliminates nausea and other general-anesthesia-related side effects.
  • The recovery time is shorter with tumescent liposuction.
  • There is less blood and fluid loss in tumescent liposuction.
  • Use of antibacterial lidocaine in the tumescent liposuction technique may reduce the chance of infection.
  • Intravenous fluid replacement is not necessary with tumescent liposuction.
  • The swelling or tumescence of the fatty deposits amplifies the targeted areas for liposuction, thus reducing the risk of a secondary procedure.
  • The new cannula design with tumescent liposuction reduces bruising and swelling after surgery.
  • Smaller incisions result in less scarring.

Tumescent Liposuction History

Tumescent liposuction was invented in 1985, by California dermatologist (dermatologic surgeon), Jeffrey Klein, M.D. Since, many refinements have been made to improve the tumescent liposuction technique and results. The most significant improvement of tumescent liposuction was the use of dilute local anesthetic instead of general anesthesia. This made tumescent liposuction one of the most precise and safe procedures in the field of cosmetic and plastic surgery, reducing complications from anesthesia and fluid loss due to larger incisions and larger instruments.

The tumescent technique is the most important advancement in liposuction surgery since it was introduced to this country in the early 1980s. The tumescent liposuction technique produces smoother results while greatly decreasing risk, expense and postoperative discomfort. Tumescent liposuction is a one-day outpatient procedure.

In liposuction before the tumescent technique, larger incisions were made in the fatty areas for insertion of long cannulas. The cannulas that were inserted through the skin were typically quite large compared to the cannula size options used in tumescent liposuction. The traditional technique typically required general anesthesia, possibly causing a longer recovery time, and increased risk of blood loss or reaction to anesthesia.

With tumescent liposuction, one or more small incisions may be made with smaller cannulas. Furthermore, the newer tumescent liposuction technique and the micro-cannulas allow for a more gradual, targeted, and metered treatment than traditional liposuction, and a more gradual and controlled removal of fat. This enables the tumescent surgeon to contour the area more effectively.

Tumescent Liposuction Technique

With the tumescent technique, the doctor injects a solution into the fatty tissue that anesthetizes the area. It causes the area to become firm and swollen (tumescent), which enables the surgeon to extract fat more accurately and uniformly, and thereby tumescent liposuction produce smoother results. Tumescent liposuction uses thinner cannula compared to other liposuction techniques that is inserted through a tiny incision in an inconspicuous location. The fat is removed through this tube with the assistance of a high pressure vacuum.

Tumescent Liposuction Procedure

Tumescent liposuction uses cannulas that have now been miniaturized so that they can be inserted through much smaller openings in the skin. A number of small holes may be placed in the skin around the treated area in tumescent liposuction (instead of few larger holes used in other liposuction techniques). The cannulas used in the tumescent technique are inserted through these small openings and the fat is removed.

The term “tumescent” means swollen and firm, which is how this technique prepares the fatty tissue for removal. In tumescent liposuction, a solution of lidocaine (a local anesthetic) is injected into the fatty area along with a solution to constrict the blood vessels (typically epinephrine). The lidocaine injected in the tumescent liposuction procedure is absorbed by the fatty tissue and causes the tissues to become swollen and firm. A large area of fatty tissue can be numbed using this technique, allowing for a large area of liposuction to be performed while the patient is under local anesthesia.

The epinephrine used in tumescent liposuction causes the blood vessels to constrict or shrink in the area of the procedure, which has a number of advantages mentioned above. The vasoconstriction limits blood loss during the tumescent liposuction procedure and provides for a longer-lasting numbing effect, because there is less blood flow to carry the lidocaine away from the area of the procedure.

After tumescent liposuction, the area of the liposuction procedure may stay numb for 36 hours without further injection of lidocaine or other pain killers.

Body Areas That Can Be Treated by Tumescent Liposuction

Areas that can be treated with Tumescent liposuction include:

·         Neck and Jowls

·         Arms

·         Abdomen

·         Buttocks

·         Hips

·         Inner and Outer Thighs (saddle bags or riding breeches on women)

·         Knees

·         Legs

·         Flanks (love handles on men)

·         Enlarged Male Breasts (gynecomastia)

Tumescent liposuction can also be used in the treatment of a number of medical conditions, as well as aid in the performance of other, non-cosmetic surgical procedures.

Best Candidates for Tumescent Liposuction

The best candidates for Tumescent liposuction are active, healthy persons of average or near-average weight and good skin tone are best suited for liposuction. Overweight individuals can benefit from tumescent liposuction if they are in the process of exercising and losing weight. However, the tumescent liposuction technique is not for the very obese and is not a substitute for weight loss. Candidates for tumescent liposuction must have realistic expectations for what liposuction can and cannot do. Candidates for Tumescent liposuction must have no significant medical problems. Age by itself is not a significant factor in tumescent liposuction.

The best way to know if you are a good candidate for Tumescent liposuction is to schedule a consultation with a tumescent liposuction physician. He or she will be able to study your case and answer all your questions in regards to Tumescent liposuction.

Tumescent Liposuction Safety

Tumescent liposuction like any surgery carries risk. Tumescent liposuction, however, when performed by a skilled and experienced tumescent physician who uses the tumescent technique, has been shown to be quite safe.

Tumescent Liposuction Recovery

The recovery time after Tumescent liposuction varies with how many areas are treated and with the type of activity the patient intends to resume. Most patients are performing routine duties after two days of their tumescent liposuction, but others may require 6 or 7 days to recover.

In Tumescent liposuction there are no bandages in the traditional sense. Special compression garments are worn under clothing for a period of time after the tumescent procedure. These garments are designed specifically for this procedure and are unnoticeable when used under clothing. The garment is designed to help the skin contract after a Tumescent liposuction and its use will help the patient achieve better results.

You will usually notice the results after a Tumescent liposuction within ten to thirty days. Improvement, however, continues for up to one year.

Tumescent liposuction can be repeated. There is a limit to the amount of fat which can be removed during any one session of Tumescent liposuction. In some instances the patient may want to have more removed at another time. If someone has several areas to treat, sometimes it is better to treat them at separate times. It is our custom to wait approximately 3 months between Tumescent liposuction procedures.

Tumescent Liposuction Cost & Insurance

Compared to other liposuction methods Tumescent liposuction is regarded as a fairly low cost procedure.

The cost of the Tumescent liposuction procedure depends upon several factors, including the sites selected, and special circumstances which may surround a particular case. Cost associates with a Tumescent liposuction may include initial consultation, surgery, follow-up visits, facility use, compression garments, anesthesia and pre-operative laboratory tests.

Tumescent liposuction is considered a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by medical insurance plans. However most physicians offer financing and payment plans in order to help their patients afford a Tumescent liposuction.

Are You Considering Tumescent Liposuction?

Thousands of people, just like you are now considering tumescent liposuction to safely and thoroughly transform their image and remove localized, excess fat. Perhaps you or someone close to you is considering tumescent liposuction to improve his or her physical appearance. This is an important decision and Tumescent Liposuction Guide is the authority site on the Tumescent Liposuction procedure.

Tumescent liposuction involves the removal of unwanted bulges created by excess localized fat deposits. A relatively new procedure, tumescent liposuction has become one of the most commonly performed cosmetic procedures. When performed by an experienced and skilled physician, it is safe and the results can be quite dramatic.

ArrivaCostaRica.com is the primary web site for information about plastic surgery and dentistry in Costa Rica. See www.arrivacostarica.com

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What is Vibroliposuction?

January 19th, 2010

Vibroliposuction is the most recent liposuction technique, it is safe effective and easy. The emulsion principle allows the removal of the fat tissue without harming any other tissues, this result in a briefer post-operatory period. It also allows mayor precision in difficult access areas or areas with great fibrosis (secondary liposuctions or male liposuctions).

It is exempt from risks inherent to other techniques due to the fact that the cannulas are not heated avoiding the danger of skin necrosis. It allows a larger skin retraction, optimum results in fibrotic areas difficult to liposuction because of their location or because of existence of previous liposuctions.

The advantages for patients are:

  • Less edema
  • No lumps (Bumpy Roads)
  • Better and fast recovery
  • Less pain
  • Fast, smaller anesthetic time
  • Less traumatic (less formation of hematomes, echymoses)
  • Better aspect of the skin (specificity)
  • Post-operative treatments are shorter

The vibration frequency is of 10 Hz. This vibration is the same used in the painkiller TENS apparatus, that increase the comfort of local anesthesia, which produces a release of endorphins of 20 to 30 minutes before the anesthetic effect is prolonged.

These principles were object of study of over 100 scientific official notices for 3 years around the world without ever having any objections.

Liposuction assisted by compressed or medicinal air:

Advantages for the surgeon

  • Easier work and less tiring ;
  • The access to treat difficult zones (back, fibrous areas…) ;
  • Treatment of delicate zones (knees, calves, buttock) with great precision ;
  • More homogenous infiltration with permanent control of the infiltrated quantities per zone (memory of 7) ;
  • Possibility to work on zones already infiltrated and/or aspirated.

Security-Quality

  • The Lipomatic was conceived for a secure liposculpture respecting the non adipose structures (emuslsifying effect) ;
  • Micropumping effect allowing the acceleration of fat evacuation without increasing the depression ;
  • No thermal liberation ;
  • Built in safety guard ;
  • CE – 510 (FDA) – KFDA marking.

    Its use is rather simple and practically does not require maintenance in addition it lacks technical risks for the patient.

    Vibroliposuction has been conceived with the objective of facilitating medical performance, decreasing significantly the surgeons’ effort.

    It works with a pneumatic engine triggered by compressed air that endows the cannula with a triple movement: fluctuation, rotation and vibration.

    As a result of these three movements a helical trajectory is generated, which will emulsify the fat tissue. This tissue will at the same time be aspired by the cannula.

    This all leads to a faster recovery and the equimosis and the edema of the treatment are less. In addition the vibration stimulates the collagen synthesis during the superficial liposuction, facilitating the posterior readaption of the skin.

ArrivaCostaRica.com is the primary web site for information about plastic surgery and dentistry in Costa Rica. See www.arrivacostarica.com

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Varicose Vein and Spider Vein Prevention

January 12th, 2010

Since the causes are still undetermined, prevention of varicose veins is debatable. However, below are some tips that may help in the prevention of varicose veins and spider veins:

  • Elevate your legs when possible, keeping your feet positioned higher than heart level.
  • Exercise daily. Walking, climbing stairs, cycling and swimming keep your calf muscles in motion to activate the calf muscle pump. This reduces pooling and pressure in the veins.
  • Move your legs frequently. Flexing your ankles periodically will pump the blood out of your legs (simulating walking). During periods of prolonged sitting or standing, flex your ankles 10 times and repeat this every 10 minutes. Try to avoid sitting for extended periods throughout your day.
  • Support compression hose. These provide external graduated counter-pressure to aid in venous blood flow to the heart. They reduce pooling and pressure in the veins. They also may reduce the risk of forming a deep vein blood clot. Consider wearing them during long plane or car rides.
  • Maintain your ideal body weight to reduce excess pressure on your legs.
  • Avoid prolonged sitting and standing. On long car or plane trips activate your calf muscle pump by moving your feet up and down frequently as described above. You should also consider stopping for short walks every few hours.
  • Avoid excessive heat on your legs, such as hot tubs and hot baths. Heat will tend to increase vein distention and lead to more pooling of blood.

In case a vein ruptures and starts to bleed it is advisable to immediately elevate your leg and compress the area. Contact your physician or seek emergency medical care immediately.

Cause of Varicose and Spider Veins

The below factors may play a part in the development of varicose and spider veins:

  • Heredity – There is a significant relationship between heredity and the development of varicose veins and spider veins.
  • Age – The development of varicose veins and spider veins may occur at any age but usually occurs between the ages of 18 and 35 years, and peaks between 50 and 60 years.
  • Gender – Females are affected approximately four to one to males.
  • Pregnancy – Pregnancy is a common factor contributing to the formation of varicose and spider veins. The most important factor is circulating hormones that weaken vein walls. There is also a significant increase in the blood volume during pregnancy. This tends to distend veins, causing valve dysfunction which leads to blood pooling in the veins. Additionally, later in pregnancy, the enlarged uterus can compress veins, causing higher vein pressure leading to dilated veins. Varicose veins that form during pregnancy may spontaneously improve or even disappear a few months after delivery.
  • Lifestyle/Occupation – People who are involved with prolonged sitting or standing in their daily activities have an increased risk of developing varicose veins. Thus, the weight of the blood continuously pressing against the closed valves causes them to fail, leading to distention in the veins.

Lifestyle factors that may contribute to the development of varicose and spider veins are:

  • Prolonged standing or sitting
  • Binding clothing
  • Chronic constipation
  • Birth control pills/estrogen replacement therapy
  • High-heeled shoes
  • Menstrual cycle
  • Obesity
  • Sedentary lifestyle
  • Number of pregnancies
  • Westernized population
  • Heat

ArrivaCostaRica.com is the primary web site for information about plastic surgery and dentistry in Costa Rica. See www.arrivacostarica.com

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What are Spider Veins?

January 12th, 2010

Spider veins

are like varicose veins but smaller. They begin as tiny capillaries and appear as blue or red squiggles. They are small red, blue or purple veins that commonly appear on the surface of the thighs, calves and ankles. It’s estimated that at least one third of the adult female population is troubled with this common problem. People often seek treatment for spider veins because of cosmetic concern. However, it is also common for spider veins to cause symptoms, such as aching, heaviness, itching and night cramps.

Spider veins may be isolated or associated with “feeder” veins. They can also be associated with larger underlying varicose veins.

Spider veins usually take on one of three forms:

  • They may appear in a spider shape with a group of veins radiating outward from a central point.
  • They may appear in a pattern that resembles branches on a tree
  • They may be in a linear pattern that appear as thin separate lines.

Certain factors contribute to the development of spider veins, including heredity, pregnancy, hormonal factors, weight gain, occupations or activities that require prolonged sitting or standing, and trauma. Get more information on Causes and Prevention of Spider Veins here.

Spider Veins Treatment

Sclerotherapy for Spider Veins

A common form of treatment for spider veins is sclerotherapy. This is an in-office procedure where veins are injected with a solution, using small needles, which causes them to collapse and fade from view. before and after spider vein treatmentThe procedure typically improves not only the cosmetic appearance but associated symptoms as well. A few sessions may be required to obtain maximum benefit. During sclerotherapy, the affected leg is elevated to drain blood, and the sclerosant is injected into the spider vein. The procedure normally takes 5 to 30 minutes, depending on how many spider veins are treated. This form of spider vein treatment may be painful, and the chemical (sclerosant) that is injected can cause a feeling of burning or cramping for a few minutes in the area where the shot was given. You may need repeated sessions and many injections per session depending on the extent of the spider veins and type of sclerosant used.

Laser Treatment for Spider Veins

Lasers may also be used to treat spider veins. During laser treatment, intense light is directed to the veins, eliminating them permanently. Lasers are especially suited to treat small spider veins when a needle cannot be used.

Bruising usually occurs in the area treated after laser treatments and lasts for a few weeks. The cost of laser treatment for spider veins is usually higher compared to sclerotherapy

ArrivaCostaRica.com is the primary web site for information about plastic surgery and dentistry in Costa Rica. See www.arrivacostarica.com

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What are Varicose Veins?

January 12th, 2010

Varicose veins are a very common condition in the United States and affect approximately 15 percent of men and approximately 25 percent of women.

Varicose veins are the blue or purplish enlarged veins you typically see bulging out of one’s leg. The word “varicose” is derived from the Latin root word “varix,” which is translated in English as “twisted.” Any vein in your body may become varicose, however, its important to note that this condition or varicose veins exists most often in the legs and feet. Varicose veins occur in the legs and lower extremities because standing and walking increases the pressure in the veins in the lower half of your body.

Is it only a cosmetic concern? For many men and women, varicose veins and spider veins (these are the smaller and more common variation of varicose veins) makes them feel less attractive. However, it’s important to note that for others, varicose veins cause aching pain and discomfort. This condition may lead to serious problems if not treated. Moreover, varicose veins may also serve as an indication that the individual is at a higher risk of other disorders of the circulatory system.

As with many other health related issues, self-help measures work well for prevention; compression stockings and changing certain aspects in one’s lifestyle.

Pregnancy and Varicose Veins

Pregnant women sometimes complain of developing varicose veins. This is true.  Pregnancy increases the volume of blood in a woman’s body, however, it decreases the flow of blood from the legs to the pelvis.  This change in circulation is designed to support the growing baby, but it can produce an unfortunate side effects such as enlarged veins in the legs.  Varicose veins may appear for the first time during pregnancy.  It has been observed that the varicose veins may worsen during late pregnancy because the uterus exerts greater pressure on the veins in your legs.

Hemorrhoids and Varicose Veins?

Some are very surprised to learn that hemorrhoids are actually varicose veins located in and around the anus.  Moreover, this condition is very common in the United States.  By age 50, about half of adults have had to deal with the itching, bleeding and pain that often signal the presence of hemorrhoids.

Hemorrhoids, also known as “piles”, are swollen veins in your anus and rectum. The causes include straining during a bowel movement or the increased pressure during pregnancy.

Effective medications and procedures are readily available to treat hemorrhoids.  Fortunately, in many cases hemorrhoids may require only lifestyle changes.

Symptoms

A number of people do not experience any discomfort with varicose veins, however, certain people do.  For those that do experience discomfort, below are some of the symptoms

  • Achiness or heavy feeling in one’s legs; burning, throbbing, muscle cramping and swelling in the lower legs.
  • Itching around one or more of your veins in the legs.
  • Skin ulcers near your ankle, which represent a severe form of vascular disease and require immediate attention.

If you have varicose veins, typically prolonged sitting or standing tends to make your legs feel worse. The varicose veins are easy to spot because they are dark purple or blue in color and sometimes appear twisted and bulging. The most common spot they appear is on the inside of the leg or on the backs of calves. But don’t let that fool you, they can form anywhere on your legs, from your groin to your ankle.

Risk Factors that Increase your Chances of Developing Varicose Veins

  • Standing for long periods of time. Blood doesn’t flow as well if you’re in the same position for long periods of time because your muscles are not contracting to push the blood back to the heart.
  • Obesity. Extra weight puts more pressure on your veins.
  • Age. The normal processing of aging causes wear and tear on the valves in your veins which regulate blood flow. The wear and tear may causes the valves to malfunction.
  • Sex. Women have a higher chance than men are to develop varicose veins and spider veins. This is attributed to hormonal changes during pregnancy, and also premenstruation or menopause may be a factor. Some researchers have found that female hormones may relax vein walls. Moreover, the use of hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills may increase the risk of varicose veins.
  • Genetics. Check to see whether your family members have varicose veins, heredity plays a big role.

Screening and diagnosis by a Physician

To locate a physician in your area that specializes in varicose vein and spider vein treatment, please click here.  Prior to making a diagnosis, your doctor will most likely examine your legs while you’re standing and will look for swelling. Also, he or she may ask you if you have any of the varicose vein symptoms listed above.  As an ancillary test, your doctor may do an ultrasound test to see if the valves in your veins are working normally or if there’s any evidence of a blood clot.  Ultimately, it is smart to see a specialist for varicose veins and spider vein treatment.  When doing your research, whether using veindirectory.org or other sites, choose a physician who specializes in the varicose vein removal procedures.  Veindirectory.org has made the process simple for you.  You can research using this site and learn about the procedures offered by the physicians.  To make it even easier for you, we have provided for you the telephone numbers of each facility. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to call.

Ulcers

Painful ulcers may form on the skin near varicose veins, particularly near the ankles. Increased pressure of blood within the affected veins can cause “water logging” which is a cause of the ulcers. Sometimes there is a brownish pigmentation prior to developing the ulcer. It is important to see a physician immediately if you suspect you’ve developed an ulcer

Sudden Swelling of the Leg

If you have considerable swelling in the leg (caused by the enlarging of veins deep within the legs) you must see a doctor immediately.  Any sudden leg swelling requires urgent medical attention because it may indicate a blood clot — a condition known medically as thrombophlebitis.

ArrivaCostaRica.com is the primary web site for information about plastic surgery and dentistry in Costa Rica. See www.arrivacostarica.com

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ArteFill Injections

January 4th, 2010

ArteFill is an improved version of Artecoll, which has been used in Europe and Canada on more than 400,000 patients during the past 10 years. ArteFill was FDA approved in October 2006 for the treatment of nasolabial folds (smile lines) and has also been used off-label for lip augmentation, acne scars, and other wrinkles. It is the only “permanent” dermal filler approved in the U.S.

ArteFill is a gel filler consisting of millions of synthetic microspheres (polymethylmethacrylate or PMMA) suspended in purified bovine (cow) collagen. ArteFill also contains the local anesthetic lidocaine to reduce discomfort during injection.

How ArteFill Works

ArteFill is injected directly beneath the wrinkle to add a permanent support structure and smoothen the area. The synthetic PMMA microspheres in ArteFill are “non-resorbable,” which means they are not absorbed into the body or metabolized, allowing ArteFill to last significantly longer than other injectable fillers. The microspheres stimulate the body to generate its own natural collagen to encapsulate each individual microsphere, resulting in 80% of the patient’s collagen and 20% microspheres (by volume) to permanently fill in the wrinkle.

As the injected bovine collagen is slowly absorbed during a few weeks, the newly generated collagen replaces it. This slow breakdown and natural replenishment process provides ArteFill with its unique and enduring results.

Best Candidates for ArteFill

Men and women of any age may receive ArteFill treatment. Ideal candidates have already tried temporary injections, are injection- and credit card-fatigued, and are sure they want a permanent result. ArteFill is not given to people with allergies to bovine collagen or with chronic skin infections. And it is not recommended for areas of thinner skin (such as crow’s feet around the eyes).

ArteFill Treatment

Thirty days before treatment, your doctor will administer a simple allergy skin test for sensitivity to bovine collagen. ArteFill treatment usually requires only 15-20 minutes, but two treatment sessions may be necessary to achieve full wrinkle correction. The treatments are typically performed three to six weeks apart. Before receiving ArteFill, you may first try a temporary filler to confirm your desired result.

Be sure to seek advice and treatment only from board-certified plastic surgeons or dermatologists with sufficient experience in the ArteFill injection technique, as well as other injectable fillers.

Side Effects with ArteFill

Side effects from ArteFill are rare but may include redness, swelling, lumpiness, pain, or sensitivity at the injection site. Some patients may feel a slight firmness after injection, which usually resolves over time.

ArrivaCostaRica.com is the primary web site for information about plastic surgery and dentistry in Costa Rica. See www.arrivacostarica.com

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Hand Rejuvenation

January 4th, 2010

Do your hands give away your age?

Frequently the focus of cosmetic improvement is the face.
Yet, one of the most age-telling body features is our hands. As we age, our hands lose firmness and plumpness and begin to look bony and fragile….with vein and joint protrusion, thin crepey skin texture and often they’ve become flecked with brown spots from sun exposure.

Combating the aging hand syndrome takes more than hand cream (though that simple step does make a difference). The latest technology has given us a set of procedures that will have similar effects as those we have been able to accomplish for the face.

What is Radiesse?

Radiesse ( previously known as Radiance ) is one of the longest-lasting injectable implants. Because of it’s components and duration, Radiesse is more aptly referred to as an implant rather than a filler. It is used for soft tissue augmentation in the correction of deep facial folds and creases and restoration of volume loss in hollow facial areas. Radiess has also become an alternative to rhinoplasty for nose reshaping (More information).

Because it has lengthy duration and is easily shaped it is perfect injectable product for use in the nose and cheek area. An effective cheek augmentation implant-alternative, when injected orally, the results are smooth without typical bruising. Intra-Oral Radiesse

The tiny microspheres provide a scaffolding into which the body’s own tissue can grow and maintain the implant in place.

Radiesse® dermal filler is made of calcium-based microspheres suspended in a water-based gel, and is injected into the skin through a simple and minimally invasive procedure. RADIESSE dermal filler is the ideal choice for total facial contouring. It can restore a healthy, youthful appearance, enhance your existing features, help you defy age and gravity, and increase your confidence – all without invasive surgery or scarring.

RADIESSE dermal filler is …

Naturally superior

RADIESSE dermal filler works with your own body in a remarkable way. Upon injection, it immediately adds volume to safely contour, correct, and beautify facial features. And unlike other fillers, RADIESSE dermal filler continues to work over time. With its patented microsphere technology, it starts a process called collagenesis, stimulating your body to produce new collagen and encouraging collagen to grow around the injection area. RADIESSE dermal filler actually helps your body create its own naturally younger look, setting a new standard in facial contouring and augmentation.

Safe

RADIESSE dermal filler has been clinically tested extensively for years, with excellent safety and efficacy results. It has received CE mark certification, two FDA approvals, and a number of FDA clearances. RADIESSE dermal filler is made from a biocompatible substance that’s identical to what’s naturally found in the body. There’s virtually no risk of allergic reaction, and there have been very few side effects reported in clinical trials and actual use.

Immediate and long-lasting

Treatment with RADIESSE dermal filler is so simple and convenient, it can be performed during a lunch hour. You’ll see the results right away – and these results may last up to a year or more for many patients. The long-lasting effects of RADIESSE dermal filler can reduce the need for retreatment, which saves you time and money compared with other fillers.

ArrivaCostaRica.com is the primary web site for information about plastic surgery and dentistry in Costa Rica. See www.arrivacostarica.com

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Teeth Whitening Safety Tips

December 30th, 2009

Dazzling smiles seem to be within everyone’s reach, thanks to the booming teeth whitening business. From over-the-counter whitening strips to dentist office professional treatments, there seems to be no reason to put up with stained or darkening teeth.

Side effects aren’t common when these products are used as directed, but can occur. Before you embark on a do-it-yourself whitening regimen, here are some teeth whitening safety tips to keep your mouth and gums healthy.

See Your Dentist First

Get a professional cleaning and mouth exam, even if you decide to whiten your teeth at home using over-the-counter strips or gels. It could be that all you need is a thorough cleaning to restore your teeth’s sparkling good looks.

The exam can also detect any cavities. Getting the cavity treated first is crucial to keep teeth whitening safe.

Your dentist will assess the health of your gums. If they are inflamed, it’s wise to postpone the whitening.

Ask your dentist for advice about which over-the-counter system to use. Ask your dentist how much lightening you might expect. Teeth do darken with age, and the range of color varies from person to person.

Shop Wisely for Teeth Whitening Products

At-home teeth whitening products contain peroxides, typically carbamide peroxide, in various concentrations — often 10% to 20% or so.

Choose a product with a mid-range bleaching agent — not the lowest concentration and not the highest.  If you tolerate it well but aren’t getting the lightening effect you want, you can choose a higher concentration.

Some home teeth whitening products have the ADA Seal of Acceptance.

Follow Directions to the Letter

Leaving the strips or gels on longer than advised can irritate the gums. More isn’t better and could lead to problems.

For instance, many over-the-counter teeth whitening strips suggest using for 30 minutes a day for about two weeks. Using longer can increase the risk of gum inflammations and later problems.

After the teeth whitening session, avoid acidic beverages such as soda or sports drinks for a couple of hours to protect your teeth.

Be Realistic

To be on the safe side, pregnant women or nursing mothers should postpone teeth whitening.

Crowns won’t whiten, as products caution. So if you have crowns that show when you smile, teeth whitening might produce an uneven appearance of color.

Be on the Lookout for Sensitive Teeth

Mild and temporary tooth sensitivity can occur with many teeth whitening products. If inflammation or sensitivity are bothersome, discontinue the treatment and speak with your dentist.

If the trays don’t fit well, they can irritate the gums. If you notice that effect, it’s also wise to stop the teeth whitening product.

If your teeth and gums are in good shape, sensitivity is less likely to be an issue.

Don’t Become a Whitening Addict

With the affordability and variety of do-it-yourself teeth whitening products, some consumers think more is better.

How much is too much? After following the directions for whitening, and getting a good result, a once a month preventive or touch up session is usually enough.

When your teeth reach a realistic shade, you only need to repeat the multiple bleaching sessions about twice a year or less.

ArrivaCostaRica.com is the primary web site for information about plastic surgery and dentistry in Costa Rica. See www.arrivacostarica.com

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What you need to know about Dental Implants

December 30th, 2009

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are replacement tooth roots. Implants provide a strong foundation for fixed (permanent) or removable replacement teeth that are made to match your natural teeth.

What Are the Advantages of Dental Implants?

There are many advantages to dental implants, including:

  • Improved appearance. Dental implants look and feel like your own teeth. And because they are designed to fuse with bone, they become permanent.
  • Improved speech. With poor-fitting dentures, the teeth can slip within the mouth causing you to mumble or slur your words. Dental implants allow you to speak without the worry that your teeth might slip.
  • Improved comfort. Because they become part of you, implants eliminate the discomfort of removable dentures.
  • Easier eating. Sliding dentures can make chewing difficult. Dental implants function like your own teeth, allowing you to eat your favorite foods with confidence and without pain.
  • Improved self-esteem. Dental implants can give you back your smile and help you feel better about yourself.
  • Improved oral health. Dental implants don’t require reducing other teeth, as a tooth-supported bridge does. Because nearby teeth are not altered to support the implant, more of your own teeth are left intact, improving your long-term oral health. Individual implants also allow easier access between teeth, improving oral hygiene.
  • Durability. Implants are very durable and will last many years. With good care, many implants last a lifetime.
  • Convenience. Removable dentures are just that; removable. Dental implants eliminate the embarrassing inconvenience of removing your dentures, as well as the need for messy adhesives to keep your dentures in place.

How Successful Are Dental Implants?

Success rates of dental implants vary, depending on where in the jaw the implants are placed but, in general, dental implants have a success rate of up to 98%. With proper care (see below), implants can last a lifetime.

Can Anyone Get Dental Implants?

In most cases, anyone healthy enough to undergo a routine dental extraction or oral surgery can be considered for a dental implant. Patients should have healthy gums and enough bone to hold the implant. They also must be committed to good oral hygiene and regular dental visits. Heavy smokers, people suffering from uncontrolled chronic disorders – such as diabetes or heart disease – or patients who have had radiation therapy to the head/neck area need to be evaluated on an individual basis. If you are considering implants, talk to your dentist to see if they are right for you.

Does Insurance Cover the Cost of Dental Implants?

In general, dental implants are not covered by dental insurance at this time. Coverage under your medical plan may be possible, depending on the insurance plan and/or cause of tooth loss. Detailed questions about your individual needs and how they relate to insurance should be discussed with your dentist and your insurance provider.

What Is Involved in Getting a Dental Implant?

The first step in the dental implant process is the development of an individualized treatment plan. The plan addresses your specific needs and is prepared by a team of professionals who are specially trained and experienced in oral surgery and restorative dentistry. This team approach provides coordinated care based on the implant option that is best for you.

Next, the tooth root implant, which is a small post made of titanium, is placed into the bone socket of the missing tooth. As the jawbone heals, it grows around the implanted metal post, anchoring it securely in the jaw. The healing process can take from 6 to 12 weeks.

Once the implant has bonded to the jawbone, a small connector post – called an abutment – is attached to the post to securely hold the new tooth. To make your new tooth or teeth, your dentist makes impressions of your teeth, and creates a model of your bite (which captures all of your teeth, their type, and arrangement). Your new tooth or teeth are based on this model. A replacement tooth, called a crown, is then attached to the abutment.

Instead of one or more individual crowns, some patients may have attachments placed on the implant that retain and support a removable denture.

Your dentist also will match the color of your new teeth to your natural teeth. Because the implant is secured within the jawbone, the replacement teeth look, feel, and function just like your own natural teeth.

How Painful Are Dental Implants?

Most people who have received dental implants say that there is very little discomfort involved in the procedure. Local anesthesia can be used during the procedure, and most patients report that implants involve less pain than a tooth extraction.

After the dental implant, mild soreness can be treated with over-the-counter pain medications, such as Tylenol or Motrin.

How Do I Care for Dental Implants?

Dental implants require the same care as real teeth, including brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups.

ArrivaCostaRica.com is the primary web site for information about plastic surgery and dentistry in Costa Rica. See www.arrivacostarica.com

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Presbyopia

December 28th, 2009

Presbyopia usually occurs beginning at around age 40, when people experience blurred near vision when reading, sewing or working at the computer.

You can’t escape presbyopia, even if you’ve never had a vision problem before. Even people who are nearsighted will notice that their near vision blurs when they wear their usual eyeglasses or contact lenses to correct distance vision.

Presbyopia is widespread in the United States. According to U.S. Census Bureau data, over 135 million Americans were age 40 and older in 2008, and the country is growing older: The median age reached 36.8 in 2008, up 1.5 years since 2000. This growing number of older citizens generates a huge demand for eyewear, contact lenses and surgery that can help presbyopes deal with their failing near vision.

Presbyopia Symptoms and Signs

When people develop presbyopia, they find they need to hold books, magazines, newspapers, menus and other reading materials at arm’s length in order to focus properly. When they perform near work, such as embroidery or handwriting, they may develop headaches, eye strain or feel fatigued.

What Causes Presbyopia?

Presbyopia is caused by an age-related process. This differs from astigmatism, nearsightedness and farsightedness, which are related to the shape of the eyeball and caused by genetic and environmental factors. Presbyopia generally is believed to stem from a gradual thickening and loss of flexibility of the natural lens inside your eye.

These age-related changes occur within the proteins in the lens, making the lens harder and less elastic over time. Age-related changes also take place in the muscle fibers surrounding the lens. With less elasticity, the eye has a harder time focusing up close. Other, less popular theories exist as well.

Presbyopia Treatment: Eyewear

Eyeglasses with bifocal or progressive addition lenses (PALs) are the most common correction for presbyopia. Bifocal means two points of focus: the main part of the spectacle lens contains a prescription for distance vision, while the lower portion of the lens holds the stronger near prescription for close work.

Progressive addition lenses are similar to bifocal lenses, but they offer a more gradual visual transition between the two prescriptions, with no visible lines between them.

Reading glasses are another choice. Unlike bifocals and PALs, which most people wear all day, reading glasses typically are worn just during close work.

If you wear contact lenses, your eye doctor can prescribe reading glasses that you wear while your contacts are in. You may purchase readers over-the-counter at a retail store, or you can get higher-quality versions prescribed by your eye doctor.

Presbyopes also can opt for multifocal contact lenses, available in gas permeable or soft lens materials. Another type of contact lens correction for presbyopia is monovision, in which one eye wears a distance prescription, and the other wears a prescription for near vision. The brain learns to favor one eye or the other for different tasks. But while some people are delighted with this solution, others complain of reduced visual acuity and some loss of depth perception with monovision.

Because the human lens continues to change as you grow older, your presbyopic prescription will need to be increased over time as well. You can expect your eye care practitioner to prescribe a stronger correction for near work as you need it.

Presbyopia Treatment: Surgery

Surgical options to treat presbyopia also are available. One example is Refractec Inc.’s conductive keratoplasty or NearVision CK treatment, which uses radio waves to create more curvature in the cornea for a higher “plus” prescription to improve near vision. The procedure is performed on one eye only for a monovision correction. Studies have shown that NearVision CK effectively treats presbyopia, but the correction is temporary and diminishes over time.

PresbyLASIK is a new presbyopia-correcting surgery now undergoing U.S. clinical trials. This innovative procedure uses an excimer laser to create a multifocal ablation directly on the eye’s clear surface or cornea. This enables vision at multiple distances.

LASIK also can be used to create monovision, in which one eye is corrected for near vision while the other eye is stronger for distance vision.

A highly experimental treatment being studied is the injection of an elastic gel into the capsular bag, the structure in the eye that contains the natural lens. In theory, the gel would replace the natural lens and serve as a new, more elastic lens.

Experiments also have centered on laser treatment of the eye’s hardened lens to increase its flexibility and thereby improve focus.

With the recent introduction of presbyopia-correcting intraocular lenses, some people undergoing cataract surgery may be able to achieve clear vision at all distances.

Also, an elective procedure known as refractive lens exchange may enable you to replace your eye’s clear but inflexible natural lens with an artificial presbyopia-correcting lens for multifocal vision.

ArrivaCostaRica.com is the primary web site for information about plastic surgery and dentistry in Costa Rica. See www.arrivacostarica.com

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