The Cup Size Conundrum

March 4th, 2009

I am always being asked “What is the difference between a “C” cup and a “D” cup.

This is a very difficult question because there is no standard and how can you describe a cup size in words? To make things more difficult the “C” cup for a 32C and 34C and 36C are all different. Also all bra manufacturers make bras that fit differently even for the same cup size. There is no standard.

We need to talk about the planned and desired outcome size differently, but it remains difficult.

Breast implants come with a volume label in milliliters (mls or ccs – they are the same) and not a cup size. A small implant in a large breasted person will not result in a small breast! The final result is the natural breast volume plus the breast implant volume. The cup size is an opinion, and not a fact. Confused? So is everyone else!

What counts is what it looks like and not the number on the breast implant. That is why we measure the breasts in such a detailed manner. The goal is to achieve a beautiful shape and be guided by the patient’s desire for not so large or large or as big as possible. Not all sizes are possible or even appropriate and should be customized to the patients goals and body characteristics, such as skin elasticity and tissue thickness.

It is not easy, but it is worth the trouble to think about the options and try to get the very best possible outcome for everyone. That is our goal.

LipoPerfection®

February 28th, 2009

Dr. Silverton uses the LipoPerfection technique to reduce bruising and swelling after liposuction. We have used this technique for about 14 years now. It keeps getting better. It was invented by Dr. Silberg, a plastic surgeon who is a personal friend of Dr. Silverton, and is very effective at improving the liposuction experience and outcome.
Sterile wetting solution is gently infused under the skin using a cannula. Then high-intensity external ultrasound is used to disperse the fluid into the nearby tissues. This is done by using the Silberg TPS ™ external ultrasound machine. This results in “super-hydrated (super wetted)” tissue cells that protects tissue integrity and can dramatically reduce postoperative complications.

Latisse is here

February 27th, 2009

The FDA has approved Latisse (made by Allergan). It is applied nightly to the base of the eyelashes and it stimulates growth. Eyelashes become longer, thicker and darker. Results can be seen in as little as 8 weeks and full results in 16 weeks. The eyelashes will slowly return to their original state before treatment began if treatment stops.

Latisse is well tolerated with only about 4% of patients reporting itchiness and redness of the eyes. Less common effects are skin darkening, eye irritation and dryness of the eyes.

Latisse costs $120 for a kit – about a month’s supply. Second and subsequent kits purchased at the same time cost $99.

Reflections on the Economy

February 25th, 2009

With the economy in recession prices are significantly down and there are unusual bargains out there. This includes cosmetic surgery – but there are limits. Special prices are offered at this time, but there is evidence of great pent up demand out there. People still want their procedures, and many can still not afford them. We still have many ways to provide financing. If interested, you might want to call us to see if you qualify.

However, as soon as the economy starts to turn around there this pent up demand will become a flood that might overwhelm the ability to provide the procedures in a timely manner. This will result in price increases and long waiting lists. When will this happen? We do not know, but if the Fed Chairman Bernanke is right it might be as soon as less than a year from now.

How to get the most out of your BOTOX treatment

February 14th, 2009

Botox is Botulinum toxin. It works by temporarily paralyzing the muscles that it is injected into. It is made into precise units. It takes 3 to 7 days to become effective. It works for about 4 months.

While the muscle is inactive it loses bulk (becomes atrophic). When it recovers it gets its bulk back and gets strong again. If you add Botox before it recovers the muscle never has a chance to bulk up again. It will continue to lose bulk and eventually will find it more difficult to recover. So, after repeated treatments it seems logical that Botox may be able to weaken the muscle for longer and be more effective.