Simple answer is no. Implants can last a life time, especially the gel (silicone) type. Implants need to be replaced only if there is some clinical sign (symptoms) that on further exam reveals a problem which otherwise cannot be corrected. This situation is not common.

Every one wants to get rid of that "tired look". My philosophy with regard to eyelid aesthetic improvement is to give the person a rejuvenated youthful appearance again, without an "operated upon" look. Upper eyelids usually need as much excess skin removed as possible and still be able to easily close the eyes. Small amount of protruding fat is also excised. The... read more »

I have had countless occasions where patients have been happy with the results but then become sad wishing they had the procedure performed sooner in their life. I always try to point out that there were other important events going on in their lives that required attention. Whether we realize it or not we are constantly prioritizing tasks,events, needs and... read more »

A large part of plastic surgery encompasses cosmetic procedures. Cosmetic surgery has come under attack recently in many different ways, but one particular editorial stands out as the most misguided effort yet. A very young woman felt it necessary to declare that cosmetic treatments should be declared illegal so that she does not have to feel the need to compete... read more »

Recently a fax came to my office offering a 2 day course in establishing and running a cosmetic practice featuring no less than eighteen (18) procedures! The course involves lasers, Botox, fillers, pulsed light (whatever that really does), needle free mesotherapy and.... how to market the practice. Wow, that is a lot to learn in two days especially since the... read more »

I took a short break from blogging due to a busy schedule trying to keep pace with our economy and people's needs. Present concerns of most people centers around health care reform. We cannot have real reform without tort reform. The health care crisis comes down to lack of insurance for some people. Aside from those who do not choose... read more »

Some words in our English language have taken on a meaning of their own, not reflecting the original intent, but rather a wish for quality that completely changes the communication . Such a word is "fade". As a plastic surgeon, who cares for as well as creates scars, I explain to patients that their wounds re-model and mature over time... read more »

I have experienced many occasions where potential patients book surgery on their very first visit with me. While I feel slightly flattered by this event, I feel that a time out is usually worthwhile in order to digest the consultation and brochure information. Almost invariably booking surgery on the initial visit results in postponement or cancellation when the person has... read more »

Once again another example of bad and unsafe cosmetic surgery presented itself in my office. We, as real plastic surgeons, are asked to "fix" other people's mistakes and, as is the usual case, the patient and plastic surgeon are "behind the eight ball". Results and life would be better if people were educated to seek consultation with a BOARD CERTIFIED... read more »

There is a reason why medical histories and exams are obtained at good plastic surgery offices. This is appropriate medical practice where people with significant medical problems are identified and treated and/or prepared so that medical surprises (read... medical emergencies) are avoided as much as possible. Pre-operative blood work and EKGs also help identify potential problems or even prevent serious... read more »