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Cosmetic Surgery: Post-Op Care Is Essential

Sun, 28 Nov 2010 05:25:00 +0000

As with any other surgical procedure, post-operative care is imperative in the case of cosmetic surgery as well. Following the post-operative advice of your cosmetic surgeon could well be the difference between a stellar result and a mediocre one. Regular follow up visits are crucial in monitoring the progress of recovery. The recovery time and the amount of post-operative care largely depend on the type of cosmetic surgery performed. For instance, major cosmetic surgery procedures, such as abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) and sizeable liposuction necessitate proper nursing for a significant period after surgery. Another point worth noting is that follow-up surgeries (or touchups) might be required to eliminate undesired effects of surgery, or to attain better results. For instance, a woman’s breast implants might internally rupture and therefore necessitate a follow-up surgery. Moreover, cosmetic surgery has associated complications and risks, such as scarring, blood clots, bleeding, or an adverse reaction of anesthesia. Thus post-operative care is pivotal for attaining satisfactory results and in order to expedite the recovery process. Post-operative care entails being careful about the body part, which has been operated upon. Undue stress and exertion to that portion, just a few days after surgery, may lead to unforeseen complications. You must strictly follow the advice of the surgeon on this issue. In addition to this, you must have realistic expectations from the surgical procedure. Since a major cosmetic surgery involves a significant recovery period, you must not expect instant results after surgery. The most crucial aspect of cosmetic surgery is to choose a surgeon who has loads of expertise in the pertinent field, since he/she can effectively advise you about proper post-operative care. Cosmetic surgery is something that one opts for in order to improve ones appearance and, in turn, ones life. So if you don’t want to settle for anything less, simply adhere to your surgeon’s advice on post-operative care.

Cosmetic Surgery – Are You Covered By Health Insurance?

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 07:51:00 +0000

Cosmetic surgery, in its true sense, is an elective procedure that is performed to reshape or enhance body parts a patient may find unflattering. Since cosmetic surgery has an intrinsic aesthetic intent, it is usually not covered by health insurance. The argument put forth by insurance firms is that a person can very well do without cosmetic surgery, and the procedure is used for mere beautification instead of being a life saving surgery. On the other hand, reconstructive surgery is generally covered by health insurance, though the extent of coverage may vary a lot from one case to another. In many ways, the answer to the insurance question lies in discerning whether the plastic surgery procedure is cosmetic or reconstructive. For instance, abdominoplasty (or tummy tuck), when performed on an obese patient to guard the patient against heart problems, is eligible for health insurance. Breast reduction surgery, when carried out with the intent of reducing weight of the breasts to curtail orthopedic pain, is typically covered by health insurance. On the other hand, breast implants or augmentations are performed with the aesthetic aspect in mind and, therefore, don’t normally qualify for an insurance. There is a fine line dividing the two categories of plastic surgery, namely cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, as far as eligibility for insurance is concerned. For instance, eyelid surgery, when performed to attain an aesthetic enhancement is considered cosmetic and ineligible for insurance. The same procedure may be covered by insurance if the eyelids are drooping to the extent of obscuring a patient’s vision. The hard fact remains that most of the plastic surgery procedures are performed with an aesthetical intent, in order to enhance alluring portions of the body. To summarise, plastic surgery that is performed to improve function instead of aesthetics is normally eligible for an insurance cover. However, it’s best to discuss your case with an insurance agent, in order to determine if you are eligible for an insurance cover.

Cosmetic Procedures in Thailand

Wed, 22 Sep 2010 11:11:00 +0000

Thailand is called the land of smiles and for a good reason. Like all medical care, cosmetic surgery in Thailand is inexpensive and of a high quality. Cosmetic Procedures in Thailand Cosmetic surgery can be an expensive and time consuming experience. When choosing to have a cosmetic procedure, you need to weigh all of your options carefully before committing to having the procedure done. While many people will save their money for years in order to get their cosmetic surgery done by the most trendy doctors in places like New York City and Los Angeles, other patients have found a way around this long wait and expense. More and more, people are taking vacation trips to other countries and combining these trips with cosmetic surgery procedures. When it comes to taking trips for cosmetic surgery Thailand has been at the forefront of this trend. Since the early 1990’s, tourists have been flocking to Thailand for the care of their cosmetic surgeons, clinics, and posh recovery sites. The favorable exchange rate with Thailand combined with less expenses incurred by the surgeons means that patients who choose to have their procedures done here will pay far less than what they would in the United States. Phuket, an island resort in Thailand, has been offering their special brand of cosmetic surgery and vacation atmosphere to patients for years. When choosing cosmetic surgery, Thailand offers a lot more than just a cheaper place to have your procedure done. Surgeons at the Phuket Cosmetic Surgery Clinic are also world-renowned for a special type of cosmetic surgery – sex reassignment, or sex change, surgery. They are one of the few clinics in the world that offer this type of surgery, but they are certain not to take such a change in their patients’ appearance lightly. Anyone who wants sex reassignment surgery performed here must pass rigorous psychological studies and medical testing before the surgeons will consent to the procedure. Of course, the doctors of Phuket and other cities in Thailand perform many other types of cosmetic surgery, and the country also offers some of the best spa retreats in the world where you can relax and recover from your surgery in style. You can also entertain yourself with the many cultural activities that Thailand has to offer, but you must remember some items before planning your trip. There is always some risk to cosmetic surgery, whether you choose to have it performed in the US or Thailand, so be careful to research your doctor and clinics thoroughly before leaving for your trip. Another issue may arise in the language barrier – be sure that you will have a translator available to help you communicate with medical staff, or that they speak English. Almost all of them speak great English, but we are talking about surgery here. If you keep in mind these few precautions, you can be sure your trip will be a successful one. Truth be told, I have never had cosmetic surgery in Thailand. When I go every few years, however, I do have a checkup, get my teeth cleaned and so on. The medical care is excellent and inexpensive. Oh, the beaches aren’t to bad either!

Cosmetic Procedures in Costa Rica

Sun, 08 Aug 2010 17:34:00 +0000

Costa Rica is a land of soaring mountains, stunning lakes and beautiful beaches. Now you can personalize some of that beauty by getting cosmetic procedures in Costa Rica. Cosmetic Procedures in Costa Rica Cosmetic surgery has become a billion-dollar industry in the United States. Every year, hundreds of thousands of people choose to have some sort of cosmetic surgery performed on their bodies, and most of these procedures are not covered by health insurance. As a result, cosmetic surgery can become quite expensive, so some patients have decided to seek an alternative option to cosmetic surgery in the US. Combining a cosmetic procedure with a relaxing tropical vacation has become a new way of getting the cosmetic surgery you want done, and Costa Rica is a great spot. Costa Rica cosmetic surgery is done quite frequently. In fact, according to one study, over 14.25 percent of visitors who come to Costa Rica get some sort of medical procedure done. These procedures are often cosmetic ones. The cosmetic surgeons that practice in Costa Rica, along with travel agents and other services, can help to set a patient up with an affordable surgery as well as excellent care afterwards in a vacation atmosphere. One big question that most people have is whether getting Costa Rica cosmetic surgery is safe. While it’s important to research any doctor before consenting to surgery, Costa Rica does boast a number of highly qualified cosmetic surgeons available to perform your cosmetic procedures. The standard of medical care in Costa Rica is one of the highest in the world, and cosmetic surgeons here are considered to be some of the best available while still being less expensive than those in the United States. Doctors practicing in Costa Rica can come from prestigious medical schools in the US and England, as well as other countries. Costa Rica also offers places like the Las Cumbres Inn, in San Jose, Costa Rica, which is a surgical retreat center staffed with medical personnel. This retreat allows patients to stay in comfort in a luxurious resort atmosphere, while receiving aftercare for their medical recovery. Tours and other amusements can be arranged while you stay at Las Cumbres, and the staff speaks several languages so that the language barrier is not an issue. Choosing Costa Rica for your cosmetic surgery is affordable and convenient. You are able to obtain the procedures you require and the vacation you need, all while saving money over the cost of the same surgery in the US. While traveling to Costa Rica for surgery may not seem safe to some, by doing your research before heading to your destination, you can be sure to obtain all the necessary information to make the right decision about your surgery.

Cosmetic Surgery And Reconstructive Surgery – What Are The Differences?

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 16:02:00 +0000

Plastic surgery includes two broad fields, namely cosmetic (or aesthetic) and reconstructive surgery. Cosmetic surgery is performed to enhance the appearance of a person, who finds his/her body parts, though otherwise fully functional, to be unattractive. Thus cosmetic surgery is performed with a purely aesthetic intent. On the other hand, reconstructive surgery focuses on concealing the destructive effects of trauma, disease or accident. That is, it strives to improve function and impart a standard look so the patient may lead a normal life. Reconstructive surgery is a way of veiling defects by using skin implants and tissue flaps. Either local tissue is used or tissue is transferred from another part to the problem area. Reconstructive tissue flaps comprise of skin, muscle, fat, bone or a combination of these elements. The most common reconstructive surgery is to cover the defects of burn survivors and other accident victims. Another common reconstructive surgery is breast reconstruction for women who have had mastectomy – surgical removal of one or both breasts, either partially or completely. Mastectomy is performed to combat breast cancer, or to circumvent the disease if a woman is at a high risk of acquiring it. Rhinoplasty may also be considered as a reconstructive procedure if the extent of damage to the nose cartilage and bone is rather grave. In such a case, tissue is moved from another body part and grafted in the damaged area. One of the most prevalent uses of reconstructive surgery can be found in the field of professional contact sports. Players are likely to suffer injuries during vigorous contact sports, and such injuries can only be treated by reconstructive surgery. Though rare, sexual reassignment surgery is another example of reconstructive surgery. There is a certain gray area between cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, and distinguishing one from another can be confusing at times. But in a gist, reconstructive surgery is usually performed to correct an abnormality, and not to enhance an otherwise normal appearance.

Cosmetic Surgery Surgeons: How To Select A Good One

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 09:50:00 +0000

Making the decision to undergo cosmetic surgery can be an overwhelming and life-changing decision. However, the question of choosing the right surgeon for the job can leave you equally perplexed. There is no dearth of cosmetic surgeons, but it is imperative that you chose a surgeon with loads of experience in the field of cosmetic surgery. You may find an expert surgeon in your vicinity, or you might have to travel a few hundred miles in your quest for the best. But the initial botheration will surely yield fruitful results. To expedite your search for an expert cosmetic surgeon, it is crucial that you crosscheck their credentials prior to undergoing surgery. Check if they are certified by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons or some other prominent cosmetic surgery board. You could crosscheck your state’s medical board to verify the surgeon’s credentials. Having narrowed down on one or two superlative surgeons it is time for an elaborate consultation. The most common aspects that you may focus on during an initial consultation are as follows:- – You may inquire about the cosmetic surgeon’s area of expertise. – Ensure that the surgeon has performed a substantial number of cosmetic surgery procedures. – Make sure that the surgeon wields the best technological equipment available. – If price is a factor, check if the expenses incurred meet your budget. – Ask the surgeon for pictures of his/her earlier patients, depicting both pre and post-surgery images. – Cosmetic surgery, like any other surgical procedure, involves risks and complications. The surgeon must not dismiss the risks of surgery, and should be willing to discuss any possible complication of cosmetic surgery. – Most importantly, ensure that the surgeon will be actively involved in post-operative care. – And finally, shun away any sales gimmicks or unrealistic bargains. On the whole, an excellent result largely depends on the expertise of the cosmetic surgeon. Hence, choose a surgeon with discretion, since a successful cosmetic surgery could give you a huge boost.

Cosmetic Procedures in Brazil

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 05:38:00 +0000

Many people think of body sculpture as an American interest. In truth, it is world wide as seen when discussing cosmetic procedures in Brazil. Cosmetic Procedures in Brazil Cosmetic surgery is a phenomenon that is sweeping the world. If you are unhappy with the way your face or body looks, it’s now easy to obtain surgery to correct your problem areas. With techniques ranging from using injections to plump up areas to dramatic surgeries to remove entire sections of skin and fat, cosmetic modification can be called one of the fastest growing industries today. In fact, getting cosmetic surgery done has become so popular that some patients have started scheduling their procedures in different countries. They can benefit from cheaper rates and also combine their surgery with a vacation. For example, we can look at Brazil. While many people think of Rio de Janeiro and Carnival when they think about Brazil, there are also other reasons to go to this country. Brazil is home to some of the world’s most accomplished surgeons, and having your cosmetic procedures in Brazil can be an interesting vacation experience. Travel agents who specialize in these “cosmetic vacations” are happy to set everything up for your trip, including both the relaxing aspects and surgery portions of your vacation. When searching for a travel agent to set up your treatment vacation, or for a surgeon yourself, be sure to find out as much as you can before getting on the plane. Often, surgeons and hospitals in other parts of the world are credentialed differently, and may not have to pass the rigorous inspections that those in the United States have to pass. Most reputable doctors and services will be happy to present you with information about your surgeon’s experience and degrees. Cosmetic procedures in Brazil are an especially good choice, as there are over 3,500 members of the Brazilian Society of Cosmetic Surgery, and each of them must pass strict requirements. Most of the surgeries in Brazil take place in Rio de Janeiro. Most often the surgeon will speak English (if not, translators are available). This city is also considered a safe place for your vacation and recovery after surgery as long as you stick to the areas specified. Hey, ever city has its bad areas. Choosing to have a cosmetic procedure in Brazil is a great option for those people who would like to combine the experience of cosmetic surgery with a trip to a beautiful resort area. Travel agents and other services who deal with these sorts of trips are available and able to help you make the proper choices of doctors and where to stay. Just be sure to obtain plenty of information about your doctor and procedure before you consent to having it performed, and you’ll have a great time!

Cosmetic Procedures South of The Border

Sat, 08 May 2010 03:51:00 +0000

Cosmetic surgery is rarely covered by health insurance, which makes it a pricey decision. Cosmetic surgery in Mexico can be undertaken cheaply and safely. Cosmetic Procedures South of The Border Deciding to have cosmetic surgery is a big step. You need to carefully decide whether undergoing major surgery is necessary for you to feel better about yourself, and whether you think that surgery will do all you desire. If you’ve gone through all of the agony of choosing to have cosmetic surgery, you will soon be in for your second difficult decision – how do I get it done? Cosmetic surgery in the United States is quite expensive, and aside from a few reconstructive procedures, is not covered by health insurance. Many people need to save for years before they can afford the cosmetic procedures they want, but some people choose to go a different route. Some patients choose to get their cosmetic surgery done in a different country, where it will cost significantly less than here in the US. Specifically, cosmetic surgery in Mexico is popular. When deciding on where to get cosmetic surgery, Mexico may seem to be a logical choice. It’s a nearby country, and you don’t even need a passport to travel there. Many doctors and facilities speak English in Mexico, especially near the border, which also helps to draw patients. The surgeries performed at hospitals and surgical centers in Mexico are often the same as those that are done in the US, but a lower cost of supplies and other medical necessities keeps the cost down. One unfortunate aspect of cosmetic surgery Mexico is the number of people who return from that country with botched procedures and even infections and other life threatening problems. Of the thousands of people that travel to Mexico each year for cosmetic surgery, many are drawn by the price tag (often less than half of what it would cost in the US) and don’t do the research to make sure that their surgeon and facility is certified and skilled in cosmetic surgery. They are willing to allow procedures to be performed on their bodies with little to no knowledge of the doctor who will be doing the surgery. Some of these surgeons may not even have been trained in cosmetic surgery or even be real doctors! That’s not to say that all of the cosmetic surgery Mexico handles is done incorrectly or at the hands of incompetent doctors. If a patient does their research and makes sure to choose a clinic and doctor who is qualified to do the procedure they want, this surgery can go well. Depending on the hospital and recovery centers available, you may be able to have treatment that is just as good or better than that in the US. Choosing cosmetic surgery in Mexico offers can be a risky situation, so one needs to be sure of all the details before leaving for your cosmetic procedure. Find a qualified, trained physician and you should be fine.

Crash Hits: Common Injuries In Car Accidents

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 14:31:00 +0000

Cars are the most visible signs of modernity in an otherwise ancient world. No urban environment would be complete without these four-wheeled machines. Most people see them as a convenience, enabling them to get from point A to point B without having to endure the crowds the rush hours associated with public transportation. However, as cars become more and more available, roads become more and more congested. As the congestion worsens, it is inevitable that car accidents occur and people get hurt. Statistically speaking, car accidents have been occurring with increased frequency over the past decade. The statistics also show that there are a number of injuries that have become common to most car accidents during that period. Head and neck injuries are listed as being typical to a car accident. The face, in particular, can suffer laceration and cutting from shattered glass or shrapnel generated by the impact. Dental injuries are also possible, particularly for people in the driver’s seat or were close to the point of impact. Mental health problems and head trauma are also possibilities. Concussions are not uncommon among car accident-related injuries. Some people also tend to experience anxiety for some time after the accident, though this is much rarer than physical injuries. The most common mental health concerns related to a car accident would be helping the victims overcome the stress of being involved in the accident, as well as the chance of post-traumatic stress disorder. The body, however, is much more likely to bear the brunt of the damage caused by a car accident. Injuries to the abdomen and legs can result in chronic pain for prolonged periods after an accident. In some cases, accident survivors have had to endure lower back pain for years since their bodies never fully recovered from the damage. Knee pain and damage to leg muscles like the quadriceps can also occur for those who are involved in relatively minor accidents or were not at the point of impact. Areas that have been cut or injured during the accident may also develop an infection, depending on how quickly the wound or opening was addressed by medical teams. Broken bones and torn muscles are common among car accident victims, though the likely areas to be affected vary depending on the specifics of the accident. Simple and compound fractures can both be experienced, typically requiring extensive time to repair and recover. In a number of cases, surgery may be needed to undo some of the damage done. Most often, drivers will experience trauma and damage to the legs and possibly the torso. Some injuries may not be obvious at first and can only be treated after the victim has been given a full examination. Removal of some of the shrapnel from impact may also require surgery if it enters too deeply into the body. There are some psychological disorders that can come about from being involved in a car accident. The most common to be cited is post-traumatic stress disorder, though it is not the only one. Anxiety is also a possible effect of being in a car accident, though it is not considered to be a common occurrence.

Cosmetic Surgery – What You Must Consider When Selecting A Surgeon Or Clinic

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 01:27:00 +0000

More and more people are opting to have cosmetic surgery. Choosing the right surgeon and clinic can be difficult unless choice is informed by balanced advice. The decision to undergo any type of cosmetic surgery is intensely personal. Although cosmetic surgery will not change your life, it may give you greater self-confidence and add to your sense of well-being. Do not make this decision lightly. It will not solve personal problems or make you look like someone else. Research the procedure Read as much as you can about the procedure or treatment you are interested in having. This will help make sure that it is right for you and that you are aware of the pros and cons of treatment. The best way to find a surgeon is word of mouth…through a friend or family member, or perhaps your doctor. Also check out our message boards on different sites to get surgeon recommendations from men and women who undergone the same procedure you’re looking for. Choose the right doctor Get a referral from your GP – they can make sure that, with your permission, any important information about your medical history is passed to the cosmetic surgeon. It also means that your GP can provide for you if you have any problems or need advice after the procedure. You should be offered an initial consultation with the doctor who will perform the operation/procedure. Do not be afraid to ask the doctor about his/her qualifications and expertise in the procedure you are interested in, how many times they have performed the operation and how often complications occur. Price should not be a deciding factor in which surgeon you choose, and many ‘cosmetic’ surgeons charge less than plastic surgeons. Be suspicious of special offers you see in newspapers or in magazines as most plastic surgeons charge a similar amount and rarely, if ever, give ’specials’. Prices can vary between surgeon depending on location, experience, where the surgery is performed (hospital vs. private clinic) and implant chosen. If you decide to go to an unqualified surgeon because of the price you could end up spending more money later on revision surgery. Find out about the clinic or hospital The best way to choose a clinic or hospital is through your GP. If this is not an option, make an appointment at a few clinics, so that you can compare prices and the services offered. • There should be registers of all private clinics and hospitals that are registered to provide cosmetic surgery in your country. The latest inspection report can be obtained from the Hospital or Clinic by requesting it. • All cosmetic surgery clinics and hospitals should be required to provide a memo detailing the services they offer, the cost, as well as information on making comments, complaints or suggestions.