Archive for August, 2009
|The Basics of Botox: A Review by Seattle Plastic Surgeon Dr. Shahram Salemy
Saturday, August 29th, 2009
Botox Cosmetic is one of the most common cosmetic procedures performed today. Â While many folks have 
tried it and been very happy with the results, some are still hesitant and want some more information first. Â With that in mind, here are a few basics everyone should know:
1) Botox Cosmetic works by relaxing the muscles that it’s injected into, and so is used for facial wrinkles that are caused by these muscles. Â Common areas include the lines between the eyes, forehead lines, and crow’s feet (small wrinkles on the sides of the face next to the eyes).
2) It is a simple procedure, takes just a few minutes, and has very little discomfort. Â It takes about 2-3 days to start to see the effects, and the results last around 3-4 months, so it is not permanent.
3) The cost varies by surgeon and region of the country, but typically it cost between $12-$18 per unit, and the number of units required to see the results depends on your specific anatomy (typical total costs are $400-$800 per treatment).
4) Many different types of doctors as well as non-doctors offer Botox injections. Â I always recommend speaking to the doctor or nurse doing the injection first to gauge their comfort level and experience with the procedure. Â Before and After photos are also helpful, so that you can make an informed decision as to who should do your injections.
In short, Botox is a very nice option for many folks, including those not quite ready for surgery. Â Take the time to pick your injector carefully and you should have a great experience and a great result!
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Saline vs. Silicone Breast Implants: A Review by Seattle Plastic Surgeon Dr. Shahram Salemy
Friday, August 21st, 2009
One of the most common questions patients ask me is which type of breast implant should they choose: saline or silicone. Â The short answer is that either can look great, but what I like to do is talk with my patients about the advantages and disadvantages of each, and then give my recommendation. Â In the end, though, it’s their call as to what they want.
Saline implants are less expensive, can usually be placed through a slightly smaller incision, and look great especially in women who have a little extra breast tissue already present. Â In addition, if they do rupture, your body just absorbs the saline, and it becomes obvious pretty quickly that you need it replaced. Â The disadvantage, however, is that they tend to feel less natural (more like a balloon in some cases) and in very thin women you can see some rippling along the sides of the breasts.
Silicone implants cost a bit more and may need a slightly larger incision to place them, but they offer a wonderful natural shape and feel, and are much less likely to show rippling than saline implants, although very thin women may still see a little.
In the end, it’s your body and your call as to what works best for you, but in most cases we can get a fantastic result with either choice!
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“What happens during a Mommy Makeover?”: A Review by Seattle Plastic Surgeon Dr. Shahram Salemy
Friday, August 21st, 2009
The term “mommy makeover” is thrown around a lot on line and in various forums, and folks often ask me what exactly it is and if they are a good candidate for one. Â Basically, a “Mommy Makeover” involved 2 or more procedures performed during one surgery to help get you looking your best after pregnancy, breast feeding and taking care of a new infant have taken their toll on your body. Â It usually involves a procedure on the breasts (breast lift, augmentation, or both), the tummy (tummy tuck or lipo) and perhaps liposuction elsewhere on the body (arms, thighs, hips). Â The idea is that after one procedure, you’re well on your way to looking as good or even better than you did before you had your children.
One thing often not talked about is what needs to be done in preparation for surgery, in particular to make sure you have the time to heal and recover after surgery (about a week or so) and that you have some help around the house with the children, in particular if they are little ones. Â While the procedures are straightforward and most women recover very nicely, it is still surgery, and so your body needs some time to recover.
Posted in Mommy Makeover | 2 Comments »
