Archives 2024

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Thigh Lift?

The warm summer weather is in full effect, and with it, people have transitioned to their summer wardrobes. Shorts, skirts, dresses, and swimsuits are all great ways to stay cool in the warm weather. For those who are unhappy with the look of their legs, this time of year may cause some anxiety. Aging and rapid weight change can impact the appearance of your thighs, such as an increase in loose skin and sagginess around the thighs. A thigh lift is an effective procedure that restores the look of the thighs, but before proceeding with the surgery, it is important to know who is a good candidate for a thigh lift.

 

Who Is a Good Candidate for Thigh Lift?

A thigh lift is a cosmetic procedure that dramatically improves the appearance of the thighs. A board-certified plastic surgeon performs the procedure, which can offer amazing results. A thigh lift involves the removal of excess skin and fat around your thigh, leaving the area thinner and firmer. It is highly beneficial for those who have skin sagging and stubborn fat around their thighs. Consider the following candidacy requirements for a thigh lift. 

 

People Who Have Experienced Substantial Weight Loss

People who have lost a substantial amount of weight often have excess skin on their thighs because the skin does not always fully bounce back after weight loss. The loss of elasticity in your skin is caused by the natural aging process and unhealthy lifestyle habits, which can accelerate the aging process as well. Those who have lost a lot of weight are good candidates for a thigh lift procedure. A thigh lift removes the excess skin and fat so you can show off your legs with confidence.

 

People Who Remain at a Consistent Weight

Candidates for a thigh lift should be close to their goal weight. Maintaining your weight at the time of a thigh lift is necessary to ensure the results of your operation last. If you have gone through a significant weight loss journey, it is important to have kept your weight stable for some time. It is helpful to talk with the surgeon during your consultation about your weight loss journey and how long you have been at your current weight. 

 

People Who Are Healthy Overall

Candidates for the thigh lift procedure should be in good overall health, which is necessary to ensure proper healing. Candidates should not have any serious medical conditions, as certain conditions can negatively impact the healing process. It is also important not to smoke. Smoking can impact the results of your procedure, so it is critical to avoid smoking altogether. Discuss your medical history with the surgeon during your consultation to ensure you are a good candidate.

 

Expectations Post-Surgery

Candidates should have realistic expectations about the procedure. A thigh lift can offer amazing results and those who have had the procedure report an increase in their confidence. To ensure such results, candidates should commit to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This includes regular exercise and eating a balanced diet, which are all necessary to preserve the results of the thigh lift.

 

Schedule Your Consultation

A thigh lift is a highly effective procedure that offers several benefits. It improves the appearance of your thighs and can improve your self-confidence. The results provide a firmer and more contoured look you can feel good about. Patients often report an increase in their self-esteem as their clothes fit better. If you are unhappy with the look of your thighs, consider a thigh lift.

The first step in moving forward with the procedure is scheduling a consultation with Dr. Brent Moelleken. Dr. Brent has helped countless patients improve the look of their legs with a thigh lift. He is focused on your aesthetic goals to ensure you look and feel your best. Contact his office today to schedule a consultation! 

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Can Tattoos Be Fully Removed?

Can tattoos be fully removed? Tattoos can be a wonderful accessory and a great fashion statement, as well as a very personal expression of spirituality and custom. When you have the right tattoo, it can speak volumes about your past and future.

However, just as much as a successful tattoo can bring joy and happiness into someone’s life, an unsuccessful tattoo has the potential to impact them in a negative sense. Fortunately, there are several methods available for tattoo removal for those who are interested.

If you have a tattoo that you aren’t proud of and have been considering trying to get it removed via cosmetic skin procedures, take a look at this overview of the subject to help you decide what the right path forward is.

What Is Tattoo Removal?

Laser tattoo removal refers to a set of practices and techniques designed to diminish and remove the presence of tattoos on the skin. Several different methods can be employed for these purposes.

Types of Tattoo Removal

As mentioned above, there are a variety of tattoo removal methods that can be employed to clear the skin of unwanted ink. Which method your physician decides to employ will have something to do with the specifics of your health and of the extent of the tattoo you want removed. The most common methods of tattoo removal include:

  • Dermabrasion: During a dermabrasion treatment, a physician uses a dermabrasion wand to remove the layers of skin where the tattoo was present.
  • Chemical Peels: Chemical peels use light amounts of abrasive chemicals to remove the layer of skin where the tattoo is present. These chemicals cause these layers of skin to peel away.
  • Laser Tattoo Removal: Laser tattoo removal is perhaps the most common and popular method of tattoo removal. During this type of treatment, a high-powered laser is utilized to break down the ink particles on the skin into smaller parts. The procedure is relatively painless and does not leave a scar.
  • Surgical Excision: This is a surgical procedure that involves a physician cutting out the problematic tattoo using surgical precision. This type of procedure is highly effective for small tattoos but loses efficacy with large tattoos.

Risks and Benefits of Tattoo Removal

Removing a tattoo that is no longer wanted carries with it a number of emotional health benefits. In addition, some of the following benefits have been noted after successful procedures:

  • Improved sense of self-esteem and confidence
  • Quick recovery time and process
  • Small amounts of pain and discomfort
  • Tattoo removal is considered a relatively safe procedure

That being said, there are some risks that one takes on should they decide to go through with this procedure. The following risk factors should be taken into account:

  • Light pain
  • Infections
  • Scarring following the tattoo removal
  • Skin rashes and general irritation

In addition, you should stay wary of tattoo parlors or spas that claim that they can offer professional tattoo removal. These institutions do not typically have the training, expertise, equipment, and license to perform professional tattoo removals at the level of a skilled dermatologist.

Can Tattoos Be Full Removed?

The challenging answer to this question is that it is almost impossible to fully remove a tattoo. Even a surgical excision of a tattoo will leave a scar, so a patient will need to determine whether it is ultimately worth it to pursue treatment.

That being said, tattoo removal has progressed to the point that most of the visible aspects of a tattoo can be removed with very little irritation to the surrounding areas of skin. Depending on the size of the tattoo, multiple sessions will likely be required to remove the visible presence of the tattoo fully.

The color of your tattoo can also impact how effective the treatment is. For example, blue and black ink tend to disappear more easily than inks of other colors, as they are prone to absorbing light the easiest.

Much of what determines how your tattoo removal process will go has to do with the amount of ink that you’re looking to remove. This will be discussed with your physician during your consultation prior to treatment.

The Best Skin Clinic in Beverly Hills

Epione Beverly Hills is one of the premier destinations for laser tattoo removal in Beverly Hills. If you have a tattoo that has been bothering you and would like to discuss with a professional whether or not you can get it removed, contact our office today to set up an appointment.

Most Popular Cosmetic Procedures for Women

Aging, pregnancy, and breastfeeding can impact a woman’s facial and bodily appearance. Sagging, excess skin, fine lines, and wrinkles can all take a toll on one’s appearance and impact confidence and self-esteem. However, several cosmetic procedures can minimize the signs of aging. If you are concerned about your changing appearance, read on to discover the most popular cosmetic procedures for women.

 

Most Popular Cosmetic Procedures for Women

Cosmetic procedures have become increasingly popular over the last decade because they are safer and more effective than ever. Surgical techniques have also made the results look more natural and even last longer. Below are some of the most common cosmetic procedures for women.

 

Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentations are a popular cosmetic procedure. They involve using implants or a fat transfer to increase the size of the breasts. This procedure is excellent for women who are unhappy with their naturally smaller chests. It can restore lost volume and improve the shape of the breasts. Volume loss is common after weight loss or pregnancy. Breast augmentations are a common cosmetic surgery as they can dramatically boost one’s self-confidence.

 

Tummy Tuck

A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a popular cosmetic procedure that involves removing fat from the abdomen. Excess skin is also removed during the procedure to create a flatter and smoother abdomen. During the procedure, surgeons also remove stretch marks found on the lower abdomen. The abdominal muscles are tightened to create a slimmer and more toned figure. Tummy tucks are beneficial for women whose stomachs have changed due to pregnancy or sudden, significant weight loss.

 

Liposuction

Liposuction is a common cosmetic procedure that removes excess fat. Even for those who diet and exercise, stubborn fat in certain areas can be difficult to get rid of. Liposuction is a great way to get rid of those last few pounds of stubborn fat. It can be performed on the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, neck, chin, upper arms, and back. Liposuction is often combined with a tummy tuck to optimize the results of the procedure.

 

Facelift

Facelifts are a highly popular procedure among women. The procedure involves removing excess skin and tightening the underlying facial tissue. A skilled plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills can provide you with a more toned and youthful appearance after a facelift. The signs of aging cause skin sagging, deep wrinkles, and loss of muscle tone. A facelift can lift and tighten the face by reducing the signs of aging. It often leaves patients looking more than a decade younger.

 

Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty is commonly known as a nose job. Many women are unhappy with their natural noses. A nose job can alter the appearance of your nose, including making it more proportional to the rest of your face. Rhinoplasty can also adjust the shape of your nose. For some patients, particularly those with deviated septums, rhinoplasty can also improve their breathing. A nose job can address both your health and cosmetic concerns surrounding your nose.

 

Plastic Surgeon in Beverly Hills

If you are unhappy with your appearance, consider some of the most popular cosmetic procedures for women. Several cosmetic procedures are available to address your specific body and face concerns. The first step in moving forward with one such procedure is setting up a consultation. Dr. Brent is a skilled surgeon in Beverly Hills. With the help of his team, he has performed countless cosmetic procedures. Contact Dr. Brent today to schedule your consultation! 

10 Popular Skin Care Trends

Fashion and skin care trends are always shifting, and staying on top of the ones that are currently in vogue can increase your chance of achieving the skin care results that you’re looking for. Below, we cover 10 popular skin care trends.

10 Popular Skin Care Trends

2024 has been a big year for skin care, and many emerging and established trends are worth paying attention to for the long-term care of your skin.

If you care about the overall health of your skin, take a look at this guide to some of the most relevant skin care trends around at this moment.

1. Minimalism Is In

Multi-step routines and intensive surgeries aren’t considered to be the most in-fashion trends for patients at the moment. One concept that’s currently in fashion is the concept of “skinstreaming” which, points to a more streamlined process for your skin care routine. Knowing what’s best for your skin and taking action based on that is considered to be one of the best philosophies you can have.

2. Try Vitamin C

A constant in the world of skincare, antioxidant-rich vitamin C remains a constant that patients and physicians can stand by to count on for better skin. There are currently even more advanced formulas in the works to help a patient achieve the skincare needs that they’re looking for.

3. Ectoin

Ectoin is a skincare ingredient that has taken the cosmetics world by storm in the past few months. Ectoin is particularly adept at binding water to form complexes that surround cells, which act as a protective barrier.

4. Multi-Purpose Sunscreen

Sun damage remains one of the biggest threats to a patients overall skin health, and taking care to prevent the sun from damaging your skin is one of the best steps that you can take towards preserving the health that you need to maintain the health of your skin in the long term.

5. Retinols

Retinols are a dependable type of skincare compound that has undergone a bit of a revamp in recent years. Producers are generally aiming to make these formulations a bit gentler and softer on the skin without losing efficacy.

6. Consider Holistic Body Care Treatment

Your skin is just another organ in the body, and taking care of the rest of the systems of your body will help to ensure that your skin maintains a high level of health as well. Sticking to the basics, such as engaging in regular exercise and getting plenty of sleep, will take you a long way in terms of maintaining healthy skin.

7. High-Definition Liposuction

High-definition Liposuction is a trending type of liposuction that emphasizes a concept known as athletic definition over the simple concept of fat loss. This places an emphasis on producing a more “natural” looking set of results over simply allowing a patient to look slimmer and sleeker.

8. Updatable Injectables

Dermal injectables such as Aquagold are a more superficial microneedling procedure that can offer a patient a set of smoother and natural-looking results. This technique generally creates a smoother texture for the skin and improves the pore size of a patient’s skin. This technique has the general effect of creating a plumper skin tone and refined skin appearance.

9.  Cellulite Treatment

In recent years, there have been some major advances in terms of how basic cellulite treatment is able to provide patients with more advanced, long-lasting results. This represents a stronger move forward for patients in this regard, as cellulite has traditionally been a difficult problem to resolve. You should ask your physician about some of the available modern cellulite treatments that are available.

10.  Prejuvenation

This concept is fairly new but has gained some level of traction with patients who are interested in taking proactive steps to make sure that they maintain their youthful appearance throughout the years. This philosophy maintains that it is easier to take preventative steps to preserve the health of your skin and your body than it is to try to rectify those issues later on in life. Adopting this attitude would bring you in line with the most modern mindset of our time.

The Best Skin Care Option in Beverly Hills

Dr. Brent and his amazing staff are well known for offering some of the best minimally invasive plastic surgery in Beverly Hills. If you’re interested in discussing with Dr. Brent some of the options you have surrounding making the best situation for your skin possible, contact us today to set up an appointment.

How to Prepare for Cheek Lift Surgery

A cheek lift, or a midface lift as it’s also known, is a type of cosmetic surgery that attempts to add a sense of lift and youthfulness to the cheeks and midface region. With the right surgical touch, this procedure has the potential to offer a patient stunning results. Below, we cover how to prepare for cheek lift surgery.

However, proper preparation is key for anyone interested in maximizing the results they will receive from their cheek lift. Failing to attend to this has the potential to compromise your results.

How to Prepare for Cheek Lift Surgery

If you’re thinking about receiving this type of surgery, take a look at this guide that can help you take the necessary steps to prepare for it.

What Happens During a Cheek Lift?

During a cheek lift, your physician will reposition a set of pads in your cheeks known as the malar pads. In addition, the skin surrounding these pads will be tightened. Prior to any of the actual surgical work being done, you will be placed under general anesthesia.

Once the patient is put under, your physician will make incisions in the cheeks, and use a small endoscopic camera to observe the details of this area of your body. Following this, they will reposition the malar pads and skin of the cheeks to enliven and refresh this area of the body. Most cheek lifts can be completed in just about two hours.

Who Makes a Good Candidate for a Cheek Lift?

Most healthy patients who are interested in receiving a cheek lift should find themselves approved to receive this work. In particular, your physician will look for the following qualities in a patient:

  • Individuals with sagging or heavy looking cheeks
  • The skin under the eyes appears baggy
  • You are a generally healthy individual
  • You have no chronic health conditions
  • You are not a current smoker
  • You have a realistic set of expectations surrounding your procedure

Most individuals who decide to pursue this type of procedure are between the ages of 40 and 50. However, anyone over the age of 18 can decide to receive a cheek lift.

Benefits of a Cheek Lift

There are many well-documented benefits that can be incurred from a cheek lift procedure. This includes some of the following:

  • Quick procedure and recovery period
  • A cheek lift is a relatively safe procedure
  • A cheek lift can provide a patient with a massive self-esteem boost
  • There is a low chance of visible scarring
  • A cheek lift offers immediate and long-lasting results

The results from a cheek lift tend to be long-lasting, with most patients enjoying their results for about 10 years.

How to Prepare for a Cheek Lift Surgery

There are several preparatory steps one can take to get ready for their cheek lift. Some of the preparations include the following steps:

  • Undergo a physical exam from your physician
  • Adjust any supplements or over-the-counter medications you’re taking
  • Adjust your alcohol intake
  • If you smoke, quit smoking for several weeks leading up to the procedure

In addition, part of your preparation process should include discussing with your doctor their own qualifications for performing the surgery. In general, you should look for a board-certified surgeon who displays the following qualities:

  • They operate in an accredited surgical facility
  • They have privileges to operate in a hospital
  • They have successfully performed a cheek lift in the past
  • They have a plan for a surgical emergency
  • They have an accredited surgical staff

After Your Procedure

The time after your cheek lift procedure is just as important as the time leading up to it. Once your surgery is complete, your surgical site will be dressed with various bandages, and a small tube may be placed under your cheeks to drain excess fluid.

You’ll then be moved to a recovery room, where you’ll wait for your anesthetic to wear off. Following this, you should arrange for someone to help drive you home safely, as there’s a very strong chance that you will feel excessively groggy in the first 24 hours following your procedure.

In addition, your surgeon will give you a set of personal guidelines for how to handle your surgical recovery period. Ultimately, following these guidelines to the letter is in your own best interest.

The Top Option in Beverly Hills

Dr. Brent and the rest of the team at his office are considered one of the best medical teams working today in Southern California. If you’re interested in discussing whether or not a cheek lift would work for you, contact Dr. Brent today to go over some of the details and find out why he’s the best plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills.

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Risk Factors for Coronary Heart Disease

Coronary heart disease is one of the most common and deadly diseases in the world and, unfortunately, has many different causes. You may be at risk for coronary heart disease—or other types of heart disease—based on factors such as age, diet, genetics, and pre-existing medical conditions. Your family history and personal health profile can also contribute to the possibility of heart disease. Today, Apex Cardiology professionals will outline the most significant risk factors for coronary heart disease.

Risk Factors for Coronary Heart Disease

1. High Blood Pressure 

A major contributor to the increased risk of heart disease is having consistently high blood pressure, medically referred to as hypertension. High blood pressure occurs as a result of stress, plaque buildup in the arteries—called atherosclerosis—, poor health habits, and other medical issues. Some people are born with blood pressure problems due to their genetics. Others might develop hypertension later in life as a result of unhealthy lifestyle habits. High blood pressure can build up for many years and go unnoticed, which is why regular check-ups are so important. Most risks can be detected and diagnosed through our non-invasive cardiac imaging treatments.

2. Smoking

It is no secret that smoking contributes to heart disease. The chemicals in tobacco can damage the lining of the coronary arteries and foster atherosclerosis. Nicotine, the other addictive chemical in cigarettes, also increases blood pressure while spreading your risk for cancer. Additionally, carbon monoxide from smoking has been shown to reduce the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. Each of these effects forces the heart to work harder, making it more likely that you will develop heart disease.

3. Diabetes

Folks with diabetes are at a huge risk of developing heart disease. This is because diabetes tends to raise blood sugar levels at an extreme rate. Excess blood sugar levels then interfere with the blood vessels and the nerves responsible for regulating heart functions. The majority of diabetic individuals also have other co-existent risk factors, such as high cholesterol levels, which only exacerbate heart disease symptoms. 

When being treated for diabetes, your doctor should also assess the health of your heart. This consultation provides an excellent opportunity to examine risk factors that you might have or be susceptible to as you manage your diabetes symptoms.

4. Family History and Genetics

Genetics and family history are two major contributors to the risk of heart disease. There is a higher risk of developing heart disease if immediate members of the family, parents or siblings, have had the disease at a relatively young age. As challenging as it may seem to treat a genetic complication, there are still a few things you can do to prevent future complications. The foremost of these include regular doctor’s visits and an intentional and healthy lifestyle routine.

5. Age and Sex

The risk of coronary heart disease increases as you get older. When they are younger, men are usually at a higher risk than women. As they age, especially after a woman has gone through menopause, this changes, and women are more likely to face heart disease. In fact, heart disease is the number one cause of death in women in the United States. Heart disease can look different in men and women, so women are likely underdiagnosed for the condition.

Age and sex both play an interesting role in your possible risks, especially as estrogen and testosterone levels change within the body. Other hormonal changes can also increase your risk of heart disease, especially as blood pressure levels fluctuate over time.

Assess Your Heart Disease Risk Today

Coronary heart disease is a serious issue that you may be at risk for, depending on your age and health. Luckily, there are plenty of actions you can take to prevent and minimize your risk. Such activities include regular exercise, healthy dietary habits, quitting smoking, and controlling your blood pressure. 

Visit our cardiology center to assess your risk for heart disease and to make healthy changes for a healthy future.

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The Rise of Post-Pandemic Plastic Surgery: A Conversation with Dr. Chiu

Numerous changes have occurred in the world over the past few years. Employers are more willing and able to accommodate remote and hybrid work schedules. Online shopping and delivery services for both goods and services are significantly more widespread. And globally, but especially in the United States of America, people are getting more plastic surgery.

This last point may come as a shock or seem unrelated to these other post-pandemic changes, but research published by the National Library of Medicine proves that there has indeed been a significant rise in cosmetic plastic surgery procedures over the past few years.

A Post-Pandemic Increase in Plastic Surgery

In fact, during a conversation with Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery Inc.’s board-certified surgeon, Dr. Gabriel Chiu, and New York-based board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. David Shafer, the New York Post referenced a report from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). From the report, they shared that the “overall demand for cosmetic procedures increased by 5 percent in 2023 over the previous year, with requests for minimally invasive work jumping 7 percent.”

Reasons For the Increase

There are a number of reasons for this uptick in the popularity of plastic surgery procedures. The New York Post notes that the “upward trend comes as Americans seek to speedily shed pandemic-induced pudge, with an increasing number vying for GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy to help them along.”

Another likely reason for this development is that most elective surgeries were canceled during the pandemic to stop any inessential spreading of germs and that people are now having the surgeries that were postponed because of social distancing requirements. Dr. D. Nepogodiev, with the National Institute for Health Research Global Health Research Unit on Global Surgery, estimated that approximately 28 million aesthetic plastic surgery procedures were canceled worldwide.

Unfortunately, these reasons alone do not explain why plastic surgery interest now is not only rebounding but exceeding pre-pandemic levels. One potential reason for this could be that patients in the post-pandemic have more time at home to recover from a procedure. This additional recovery time is likely the effect of the aforementioned increase in remote work and video conferencing options available to today’s workforce. Another reason is that people in the post-pandemic world see themselves on camera more often—whether this is due to video conferencing or the increased use of apps such as TikTok—and therefore have more opportunity to find aspects of their appearance that they would like to alter or enhance.

A Shift in the Type of Procedures Requested

Interestingly, post-pandemic cosmetic plastic surgery trends have also shown that the type of procedures requested has changed post-pandemic. While speaking to the New York Post and Dr. Chiu, Dr. Shafer said that patients’ aesthetic desires have shifted toward cosmetic procedures that make them appear “athletic and slender.” In contrast, Dr. Shafer says, the popular plastic surgery procedures of the recent past tended towards “over-exaggerated features.” Dr. Chiu emphasized this point by saying, “As plastic surgery practices opened up again [after the lockdowns], requests for a natural-looking but athletic contouring were the norm.” The New York Post aptly describes this influx of similar requests as a desire for a naturally lean-looking “athletic physique like that of a dancer.”

In 2023, the most popular cosmetic procedure for achieving this dancer’s physique was liposuction. Dr. Chiu verified this point by saying, “Liposuction is the backbone of this trend, which is also seen in the fact that for the last couple of years, it has been the most popular surgical procedure of all.” Luckily, as the New York Post reminded readers, liposuction is far from the only cosmetic procedure available to help patients achieve the body they want. In order of popularity in 2023, the five most popular cosmetic procedures were Liposuction; Breast Augmentation; Tummy Tuck, also called an Abdominoplasty; Breast Lift, also called a Mastopexy; and Eyelid Surgery, also called Blepharoplasty.

Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery Inc.

Though we cannot yet know whether this steady rise in plastic surgery interest will remain over the coming years, readers can rest easy knowing that Dr. Gabriel Chiu of Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery Inc. has the experience and knowledge necessary to meet your cosmetic surgery needs.

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Guide to the Brazilian Butt Lift Procedure

Butt enhancement is one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures across the globe, and millions of people are seeking to enhance the look of their backsides through a variety of groundbreaking augmentation methods. Below, we factor out our guide to the Brazilian butt lift procedure.

Brazilian butt lifts, also known as BBLs, are one of the most popular types of methods available to create a pronounced and voluminous backside. There are many advantages to getting this type of butt enhancement, but many patients are unsure how to start, or even what the procedure entails.

Guide to the Brazilian Butt Lift Procedure

You can read through this short guide to the Brazilian Butt Lift procedure to familiarize yourself with the entire process from beginning to end.

What Is a BBL?

A Brazilian butt lift is a surgical augmentation procedure that uses natural fat from the body to create implants. This is an alternative to using silicone or disc implants. In a typical BBL procedure, the plastic surgeon uses liposuction to remove the fat from the stomach or waist and then injects it into the patient. This creates a natural augmentation in the butt that will lift in an aesthetically pleasing way.

Dr. Chiu, a renowned Board-certified plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills, makes a surgical incision either above or below the buttocks muscle to create a pocket where the harvested fat will be inserted. Then, Dr. Chiu double-checks the size of the butt cheeks to make sure the size looks natural.

Who Qualifies for a BBL?

Many types of patients would make excellent candidates for our simple and successful Brazilian butt lift procedure. The best candidates for this procedure usually have:

  • A suitable amount of fat available in the stomach, hips, lower back, and waist; there must be enough fat available for liposuction to remove so it can be re-inserted into the buttocks area.
  • A good bill of health, with no underlying medical issues or chronic conditions
  • Healthy eating and exercise habits, refraining from smoking or drinking too much
  • Good expectations of what the surgery entails and what results may look like
  • Missing fat or a lack of volume in the buttocks region

A Brazilian butt augmentation uses the patient’s fat harvested from other parts of their body, using it to form a bigger and more rounded backside for a more aesthetically pleasing look.

What Is the Recovery Process Like?

After you undergo a Brazilian butt lift procedure, it can take a few weeks to recover fully. Dr. Chiu would suggest not sitting fully on your butt for two weeks, though this time may vary depending on how big your BBL is. You might be asked to wear a compression garment around your backside for a few weeks, which helps to keep the harvested fat in place.

No Sitting

The most difficult part of recovery is not being able to sit. You should avoid prolonged sitting, especially on one side of your body, as this can shift the fat around and create some major asymmetry. There are BBL pillows you can buy to help you relax in several comfortable positions without compromising your results. After about six weeks, you can resume sitting normally.

Are BBLs More Popular Than Implants?

A Brazilian butt lift is a great alternative if you do not want silicone implants. BBLs are natural butt augmentations that take from existing fat in a less invasive procedure. While the butt may be able to be shaped more precisely with a butt implant than with a BBL, Brazilian butt lifts often feel and look more natural. Ultimately, the choice of method and procedure is totally up to you.

How Long Do BBL Results Last?

One of the risks of a BBL procedure is that the body will naturally reabsorb some of the fat that is injected into it. That is why our surgical team uses a precise method to make sure as much fat is retained as possible. Despite the possibility of some fat loss, BBLs are still an incredibly successful procedure. At least 60% of the fat injected into the butt will stay in place for a nice, rounded look.

You can enjoy the results for many years before some of the fat starts to get absorbed due to age. While the natural signs of aging cannot be avoided indefinitely, BBLs can help you reshape and restructure your body for a look that lasts for decades.

Get a Personalized BBL in Beverly Hills

Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery, Inc. offers the most luxurious methods for a butt lift in LA. Enjoy the rest of your life with a BBL that perfectly suits you when you contact us today.

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Which Dental Procedures Require Sedation?

Modern sedation dentistry allows patients to undergo complicated dental procedures without discomfort and pain. Some people with acute dental anxiety can also benefit from these methods. But which dental procedures require sedation? In this article, we will answer this question and discuss the types of sedation commonly used in dentistry.

Which Dental Procedures Require Sedation?

In most cases, sedation is used when the procedure is complicated and time-consuming, requiring the patient to remain still for a long time. Such procedures include:

Bone Grafting

Bone grafting is used to prompt the regeneration of the jaw bone and improve its density. This procedure can be recommended in preparation for dental implants or dentures. During the procedure, your doctor will make incisions in the gums to access the jaw bone and then place the grafts made of natural or medical synthetic material. In some cases, grafts are sourced from the patient’s own tissue. Once the grafts are placed, stitches are applied.

Dental Implants Placement

Dental implant placement can take quite a long time and requires precision, especially when more than one implant is placed at once. During the procedure, metal posts are inserted directly into the jawbone, where they fuse over time.

Tooth Extractions

In some cases, tooth extractions can be complicated due to the position of the teeth’s roots, leading to your dentist recommending sedation. 

Emergency Procedures

Accidents can cause severe oral trauma, including multiple knocked-out teeth, broken jaw, lacerations in the mouth, etc. If the injury is extensive and requires surgical treatment, your doctor is most likely to recommend sedation.

Depending on the patient and the patient’s pain tolerance, the procedures listed above can be performed without sedation and only use a local anesthetic.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is using one of the available sedatives to make a procedure as comfortable and painless for a patient as possible. In some cases, even if the procedure does not technically require sedation due to its difficulty, a patient can still opt for sedation if they experience acute dental anxiety. In general, sedation dentistry might be recommended for the following patients:

  • People with a very low pain tolerance 
  • People who have reactive gas reflex
  • People who find it challenging to remain still in one position for a long time
  • People who are undergoing invasive procedures or procedures that take an extensive period
  • People with severe dental anxiety

Types of Sedation Used In Dentistry

Depending on the complexity of the case and the needs of a particular patient, a dental specialist might offer one of the following types of sedation:

IV Sedation

IV sedation does not put a patient to sleep, meaning that you will remain conscious during the procedure but feel calm, relaxed, and less aware of the procedure. With IV sedation, patients can still understand and respond to what the doctor is saying or asking them to do. As the name suggests, this type of sedation is administered intravenously. The benefits of IV sedation include:

  • It works quickly after it is administered.
  • The dosage can be adjusted easily based on the patient’s needs.
  • It allows the patient to cooperate with a doctor.
  • It significantly reduces stress during the appointment and allows the patient to remember less of the procedure.

Nitrous Oxide

Nitrous oxide, also called a laughing gas, has been used in dentistry for decades. Typically, in modern dentistry, nitrous oxide is used in combination with oxygen and inhaled. This type of sedation is safe, and its effect usually passes right after the procedure so the patient can return to their daily activities. On its own, nitrous oxide does not reduce pain enough, so the local anesthetic is usually still used together with it. 

Nitrous oxide is often used in pediatric dentistry, as it effectively reduces children’s fear of the procedure.

Oral Sedation

Oral sedation typically comes in the form of a pill administered through the mouth. The level of such sedation is usually moderate, allowing the patients to feel calm and relaxed for the duration of the procedure.

General Anesthesia

With general anesthesia, the patient is in deep sleep, unaware of their surroundings or the procedure, and does not feel any pain. After the procedure, the patient will also not have any memory of it. General anesthesia is induced through a vein. 

Make an Appointment Today

Do not hesitate to make an appointment with a full-service dentist in Arcadia today. We provide a safe and stress-free environment and use modern methods to ensure your oral health. We look forward to your visit to Smiles of Arcadia.

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Types of Rhinoplasty

Plastic surgery is a field that continues to expand each day, providing a more extensive range of options to those looking for a health and confidence boost. If you are trying to improve the way you feel about yourself by rejuvenating your features, you have come to the right place. One of the most common types of surgeries performed at Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery is the nose job, also called rhinoplasty. 

Rhinoplasty in Beverly Hills works to improve the shape and structure of your nose through contouring. This process may also involve the removal of excess cartilage or the repositioning of part of your nose to fix issues with misalignment. Because there are so many reasons for wanting a rhinoplasty, it makes sense that there are different types of rhinoplasty available to you. Below, we will review the most common types of nose jobs.

Types of Rhinoplasty

1. Open Rhinoplasty

Open rhinoplasty is an option for those looking for a very specific nasal alteration. You might choose this option if you are dealing with small areas of misalignment or you have custom needs that require a more personal approach. Open rhinoplasty is achieved through a small incision made between your nostrils. Utilizing an incision allows the surgeon to change and contour any part of your nose individually. 

An open rhinoplasty can produce scarring, but it is usually inconspicuous. Recovery from an open rhinoplasty lasts a few weeks and is expected to go smoothly with lots of rest. Many patients choose this option because of the highly customizable quality of the surgery. 

2. Closed Rhinoplasty

A newer and more advanced type of nose job, the closed rhinoplasty works entirely underneath the skin. It is a revolutionary way to reshape and re-contour the nose without leaving behind any scars. It also drastically shortens your recovery time, as most of the healing happens under the surface. However, this procedure is only recommended for more minimal changes. If there are slight adjustments you want to make to your nose, this is a good option for you. Otherwise, a more detailed and open type of rhinoplasty may suit you better.

3.  Nose Tip Rhinoplasty

Nose tip surgery is described by its name. If you have a blemish or an asymmetrical shape on the tip of your nose, you can get tip rhinoplasty to address that area specifically. Nose tip surgery is a relatively simple procedure, as the tip of the nose is one of the most straightforward parts of the nose to access and repair. Since the surgeon can reach the tip of your nose without disrupting any other parts, this is a perfect procedure for patients who are primarily concerned with the very front of their nose. 

4. Revision Rhinoplasty

People can go through rhinoplasty and then be unhappy with the results. From botched surgeries to physical injuries during recovery, there are plenty of legitimate reasons why you need a revision. If your first rhinoplasty did not pan out exactly as planned, there are specific revisional procedures available to give your nose a second chance to shine. Dr. Chiu offers revision rhinoplasty to anyone who has already pursued cosmetic enhancement and feels worse off after recovery. 

5. Septorhinoplasty

Nose jobs exist for a myriad of reasons. That is why we offer specialized forms of rhinoplasty to help alleviate specific needs. For example, some people are born with a deviated septum. The septum is in between the nostrils and can create asymmetrical or misaligned nostrils. Deviated septums can make one nostril look smaller than the other or make the entire nose look lopsided. Septorhinoplasty addresses both medical and cosmetic concerns in one surgical procedure. 

6. Liquid Rhinoplasty

You might be avoiding a nose job because you are not ready for intensive surgery. Or, maybe, you seek small changes that do not require going under the knife. At Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery, we have a solution for you. Liquid rhinoplasty refers to the use of dermal fillers to change your nose in appearance or contour. It is excellent for anyone with minor blemishes on their nose. If you have just a slight misalignment or you are looking to fill out your nose bridge more, you can achieve these goals through some of our FDA-approved filler options. 

Find Out Which Rhinoplasty Works for You

Dr. Chiu is a renowned plastic and reconstructive surgeon offering life-changing forms of rhinoplasty in Beverly Hills. From deviated septum repair to total cosmetic contour, you can get it all when you sign up for a consultation with us. Reach out to the team at Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery Inc. to find out which type of rhinoplasty suits your needs and get a full assessment!