Plastic Surgery Procedures Increase as Trend of "Selfies" Grows

by Andrea L. Algar

We've all seen how the trend of taking "selfies" seems to be out of control. It is now being reported that this growing trend is leading to some pretty unexpected outcomes. Cosmetic surgery is on the rise!

Selfie found on the Internet

The American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery as well as the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery reports that in 2013 Americans spent almost $12 billion on plastic surgery and nonsurgical procedures to enhance their looks. What they didn't report is that procedures such as hand rejuvenation and facial procedures have taken a sudden swing upward. Many are concluding that this is because of the increase in social media and people taking "selfies" which become closely scrutinized.

Certainly the face is important because it is the focus of photos. The hands become important because they're often an unintended object in selfies. People want to put their "best face" forward on social media, whether they prefer Facebook, Linked In, or other sites. But, does it actually change the way we look at ourselves?

Anyone who looks very closely at themselves is apt to find SOMETHING they don't like. Whether it be that their lips are too thin, their nose is too big, or that they lose count on the number of chins they see, our appearance is under much closer observation and assessment. It is now much easier to obsess over perceived inadequacies because we have much more opportunity to see ourselves through others' eyes.

Plastic surgeons are now noticing the change in cosmetic patient coming to their practice for hand and face enhancements...the two areas most noticed in "selfies". Surgical procedures for eyelid surgery and rhinoplasty grew in 2013 at an unexpected rate. And, non-surgical treatments including injections for the face and hands, have grown even more briskly. So much so that it has many industry analysts thinking that minimally invasive procedures will be the next hot trend in plastic surgery.

If the "selfie" trend continues, there's little doubt that men and women of all ages will continue to pay more attention to how they appear to others. Whether it influences more young people to get cosmetic procedures, drives up the number of facial and hand procedures, or even gets more men running for plastic surgery remains to be seen.

What do you feel about "selfies" influence on the way we look at ourselves?

ASPS Report Shows Breast Augmentation Top Procedure - Buttock Enhancement and Neck Lift On The Rise

by Andrea L. Algar

More and more Americans are opting to enhance themselves with plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures. According to a new report from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), cosmetic surgery procedures in 2013 were up 3% from the 2012. 15.1 million procedures were performed.

Not surprisingly, breast augmentations and nose jobs (rhinoplasty) are still the most popular surgical procedures. More surprising is how sharply buttock enhancements have risen.  Almost 10,000 procedures took place in 2013, which represent an increase of 16 percent from the previous year. 

According to Dr. Robert Young, "Breast Augmentation continues to be the number one procedure I do. The Brazilian Butt Lift is also a very popular procedure in my San Antonio Surgery Center. I've noticed a sharp increase in them over the last two years. I think women like it because you're eliminating problematic fatty areas (usually the abdomen, hips or thighs) with liposuction, while adding desired volume to the buttock." Also of interest was that neck lifts also rose sharply with more than 55,000 neck procedures performed last year.

In a press release by the ASPS, President Dr. Robert Murphy said, “The demand for plastic surgery remains strong, with our statistics showing increases in both cosmetic surgical and minimally-invasive procedures… With new devices and products hitting the market each year, there are more options and choices available to consumers wanting to refresh their look or a little nip and tuck."

What does this mean for the average consumer? 

Plastic surgery procedures are far more accepted by society than in decades past. Women talk much more openly about procedures they want or have had. The Internet is alive with forums where patients can share stories, ask questions, and get information. RealSelf.com has emerged as a leader in this. With today's world of competitive work environments, even men are getting into the act. Procedures for men are on the rise, and men are losing the fear of having procedures done to enhance their looks or reverse the signs of aging. 

New products, devices and technologies are coming into the plastic surgery field every year that help to make cosmetic procedures more attractive to men and women. There are more options and choices available for everyone. At the same time, because of this, it's more important than ever to research procedures you are interested in and find qualified professionals. The ASPS, ASAPS and other professional associations recommend seeking services from a Board Certified plastic surgeon who has experience with those procedures.

Correcting A Weak Chin Or Jaw Can Make Dramatic Difference In Face

by Andrea L. Algar

The face is one of the most difficult areas for patients to judge what is needed to look younger. Many automatically revert to the term "face lift", thinking that this age-old procedure is the only thing available to help turn back the hands of time.


Angelina Jolie
Photo Credit: femalefirst.co.uk



But, an experienced board certified plastic surgeon knows that there are many options to consider. Among them are the jaw. A weak jawline can affect the entire presentation of the face. It can make an otherwise normal nose appear too large, a chin too pointed, or the face too long.

Take a look at some of the "most-beautiful" celebrities and you'll note that they all have strong chins and jawlines. There is no doubt that correcting a weak chin or jaw can dramatically improve the entire face. Studies have shown that facial symmetry is an important indicator in determining beauty. A balanced, symmetrical face is chosen as "beautiful" more consistently than those which are not. Angelina Jolie has a notably strong jawline and is an example of good facial symmetry, a major reason she is thought of as one of the world's most beautiful women.

Injectable fillers may be used for small facial areas requiring subtle change, but do not work as well for the large amounts needed for areas like the jawline. Using facial fillers on the jaw can sometimes produce unpredictable results and require repeating the procedure as the product is reabsorbed by your body. The length of time the fillers last depends upon the type of product used, and results will vary with the skill of the injector.

Chin implants can increase projection and create more evenly balanced facial features and they can last a lifetime. Chin and jaw implants look and feel like natural bone structure, and provide a good foundation for face lift if needed on an aging face, or in conjunction with a rhinoplasty to correct the nose. It is a procedure that both men and women can benefit from and the procedure has a relatively short recovery time.

If you've been confused over what procedure would help to balance your facial features, consider consulting with a board certified plastic surgeon in your area. Not all plastic surgeons work on faces, so ask if they do. A surgeon who performs a variety of facial surgeries can help guide you to the procedures that will help you achieve the look you want.

REFERENCE / RESOURCES FOR MORE INFORMATION:
eHOW.com - Face Exercises to Sharpen The Jawline
cbc.ca - Strong jaw lines versus rounded chins
style-makeover-hq.com - Find Your Face Shape
YouTube - It's All About The Jaw! VIDEO

Cosmetic Surgeries Increased in 2012 Despite Poor Economy

by Andrea L. Algar

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reports that 14.6 million plastic surgery procedures were performed in the US in 2012 which is a 5% increase from the previous year. All this despite a weak national economy and people watching their purse strings a bit more than usual.

The most popular surgical procedures were breast augmentation and rhinoplasty (nose job). In addition, over 6 million wrinkle relaxer treatments such as Botox and Dysport were performed. Other treatments that are gaining in popularity include facial fillers such as Perlane, Restylane and Juvederm.

Dr. Robert Young has been performing cosmetic surgeries since he began his San Antonio private practice in 1990. To him, these trends are not new. "I've performed more breast augmentation surgeries than any other procedure, and they have been growing in popularity even more than ever over the past five to ten years," he states.

A pioneer in minimally invasive techniques in San Antonio, Dr. Young has helped thousands of women wanting to enhance their natural bustline by offering a wide range of choices in saline and silicone breast implants. He explains, "We offer choices in incision site, over or under the muscle, and in the shape and size of breast implants as well. These choices allow women to select the look they prefer, whether it is natural or intentionally enhanced, big or small or anything in-between."


REFERENCES:
dryoungforever.com - Dr. Robert N. Young, MD, FACS, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

ABOUT DR. YOUNG
Robert N. Young, founder of Aesthetic Enhancement Cosmetic Surgery & Laser Center, is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon with over 30 years experience. A native of San Antonio, Dr. Young graduated from the esteemed U.S. Military Academy at West Point and his medical training from Tulane University School of Medicine. Dr. Young retired from the military in 1990 after having served as Chief of Plastic Surgery at Brooke Army Medical Center. He has extensive experience both as a reconstructive plastic surgeon and a cosmetic plastic surgeon, and over the past twenty years has become known as the breast doctor of San Antonio. His practice includes a fully accredited outpatient Surgery Center staffed with qualified Registered Nurses, Anesthesiologists and surgical technicians. As a leading plastic surgeon in San Antonio, Texas, Dr. Young is a member of the following professional organizations:

- ABPS Diplomate - Board Certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS)
- Member, American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS)
- Member, American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)
- Fellow, American College of Surgeons
- Member, Texas Medical Society (TMS)
- Member, San Antonio International Society of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (SAISPRS)
- Bexar County Medical Society (BCMS)
- Accreditation by the American Association for Ambulatory Surgical Facilities (AAAASF)

Rhinoplasty Gets Complicated when Septum is Deviated

Rhinoplasty ("nose job") is a cosmetic surgery procedure which can be complicated, and not surprisingly, many plastic surgeons do not enjoy doing them. No two noses are the same, and there can be limitations on what can be done with the nose.  Not everyone can end up with, nor would necessarily want to end up with, a cute, perky little nose with a slight scoop in it. With the nose being in the center of the face, it tends to be put under the microscope by patients when judging results.  And, when presented with common complaints of breathing problems, or a "deviated septum", the task of correcting the exterior shape of the nose can be greatly complicated by the internal issues causing the deviation.

Dr. Robert N. Young is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who has been performing Rhinoplasty surgeries for over 20 years, and he has achieved good results when dealing with cosmetic corrections.  When a patient has septal issues however, he and many other qualified plastic surgeons prefer that patients consult with an experienced Ear, Nose & Throat (ENT) physician/surgeon who can assess the internal issues involved. An ENT can diagnose the cause of breathing difficulties, rule out other medical conditions, and prescribe the best course of action for you. In some cases, bone grafts may be needed to correct the problem surgically. The good news is that the treatments are lasting, and outcomes can be very good. 

The golden rule for Rhinoplasty: seek treatment from the professional best suited to help you, depending on if you need cosmetic correction, or correction of a breathing difficulty.

Best Breast Augmentation Prices of the Year!

We wish you, your family, and friends the very best for the holidays, and extend our thanks for your support and continued interest in our Cosmetic Plastic Surgery and Medical Day Spa services.  In appreciation, we're closing 2011 with great prices on Breast Augmentation!

Breast Augmentation, usually $4700 for saline implants, $3950 now thru 12-30-11
Silicone implants usually $6000 are just $4950 thru 12-30-11

We've also got great specials on other surgery procedures performed by Dr. Robert N. Young, such as Tummy Tuck, Liposuction, Face Lift, Rhinoplasty and others.  Contact us at 210-496-BODY  to schedule a consultation with Dr. Young to see if you are a good candidate for these surgical procedures.  Special pricing is available only while openings are available.  Be sure to mention you read about Dr. Young's holiday specials so we can check availability.

Is Dissatisfaction With Your Body a Problem?

I came across an interesting article published recently in a professional journal discussing the possibility that people who are very unhappy about the size or shape of their nose could mean that they suffer from a psychiatric disorder called Body Dysmorphic Disorder.  A trained and Board Certified Plastic Surgeon is trained to look for patients who may suffer from Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) for a variety of reasons.  Those with severe BDD can have an inaccurate perception of the way their body actual appears, and this can disrupt their everyday quality of life.  The most common conditions associated with severe BDD is eating disorders such as Bulemia or Anorexia, where the patient may actually see themselves as "fat", when in reality they are extremely thin or emaciated. BDD could conceivably make one obsess about their nose, their legs, breasts, stomach, or other body area to the point where no amount of "correction" would prove satisfying.

Cosmetic Plastic Surgery can provide an increase in one's self esteem, help clothes fit better, and give one confidence. For those with BDD, cosmetic surgery usually does not "solve" the issues they have with their body, and they may be more apt to seek out revisional surgeries to the same area. Making sure that a patient has reasonable and obtainable expectations is key to successful outcomes in cosmetic plastic surgery, and most cosmetic surgeons want to know so they can deliver the results you want. Be sure to discuss your expectations clearly with the Board Certified Plastic Surgeons you consult with, and listen carefully if they advise that the surgery may not provide quite what you expect. No one wants to find themselves caught in an endless cycle of revisional surgery, whether you have had rhinoplasty, liposuction or breast augmentation.

On a good note, we find that patients who have taken time to research their procedure and their surgeon are often the most satisfied.  While the internet can be a great tool for information, not all information is accurate, so ask questions from your surgeon if something doesn't sound right, or if there is something of particular importance to you.  Take time to think over your reasons for wanting the surgery, and what you feel it will do for you.  If you feel your expectations are reasonable, then plastic surgery can quite possibly be a good choice for you.

Dr. Young Returns from Annual Convention

Dr. Robert Young has returned from the 6th Annual Facial Cosmetic Surgery 2010 conference in Las Vegas excited about the latest news and advances in cosmetic plastic surgery, and specifically procedures and products for the face.  Rhinoplasty, face lift, eyelid lift (blepharoplasty), forehead and browlifts, neck lift, skin tightening technologies, fractional resurfacing, facial fillers, peels, and a host of other topics proved interesting and valuable.

At Aesthetic Enhancement Cosmetic Surgery & Laser Center, we're looking forward to incorporating some of these advances into the surgeries and procedures performed by Dr. Robert N. Young, MD, FACS, and the professional staff of his medical day spa.

We'll be reporting more on some of the latest news over the upcoming weeks.  Be sure to check back! 

More Men Looking At Cosmetic Surgery

by Robert N. Young, MD, FACS

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

I've noticed more men coming to my specialty practice for cosmetic surgery procedures over the last year or two. What is most striking is that in addition to the more common liposuction and rhinoplasty, there has been an increase in full facelift, abdominoplasty "tummy tuck" and blepharoplasty "eyelid lift". I am also seeing requests for calf implants, pectoral "pec" implants, and other procedures which promote a more healthy, youthful appearance.

Many articles suggest that both men and women are trying to "put their best foot forward" in terms of remaining competitive in the current job market, and the fact that the number of men coming in for Botox(R) and facial fillers may support this theory.

Male cosmetic plastic surgery seems to be growing in popularity and I am happy to discuss both surgical and non-surgical alternatives to help men achieve their goals.