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A nuclear stress test is a tool that helps diagnose heart issues. It is also highly effective in monitoring your heart health and assessing the effectiveness of specific treatment plans. The results of this test help your doctor understand how your heart is functioning, which is critical for them to identify issues and improve your heart health. You may wonder, how are nuclear stress tests performed? Below, you will find helpful information about what to expect before, during, and after the test.

How Are Nuclear Stress Tests Performed?

A nuclear stress test is helpful in learning more about how your heart is working. The test involves two parts. If you have been scheduled for a nuclear stress test, it is important to consult with your doctor about how to prepare. They will provide you with helpful information about preparation, what to expect from their specific treatment process, and what will happen after. Below are general guidelines for how nuclear stress tests are performed.

Before the Nuclear Stress Test

You will need to physically prepare before your nuclear stress test. Things patients are most often told to avoid include eating, drinking, or taking certain medications for some time before your test. Your doctor will provide you with specific information about this. It is essential to follow their instructions carefully. Do not stop taking any medications without consulting your doctor first, as this can be dangerous and may impact your results. On the day of the exam, wear comfortable clothes. You should be able to exercise in them if the test calls for it.

During the Nuclear Stress Test

A nuclear stress test is performed at a cardiovascular health center. The nuclear stress test starts with an injection. The injection is a small amount of radioactive material. It is referred to as a tracer and is injected into your arm. The injection travels through your bloodstream to reach your heart. It is then absorbed by your heart. A special camera will then take a set of images while you are lying down. They show how your blood flows to your heart when you are resting. 

The second phase of the test involves assessing your heart when your body is not at rest. This portion of the exam is completed by measuring your heart during exercise or with medication. During this time, another set of images is taken. This shows the doctor how well your blood flows to your heart when it is under stress. Throughout the entire exam, several things are monitored, including your heart rate and blood pressure.

After the Nuclear Stress Test

Once the test is complete, you will be asked to rest for a short period. The doctor will observe you to ensure that your heart rate normalizes. The doctor will assess the images and review them with you. In some cases, you may need to set up a follow-up appointment to discuss your results. Your doctor will let you know what to expect after the nuclear stress test in advance. 

Do I Need A Nuclear Stress Test?

Your nuclear cardiology doctor will determine if you need a nuclear stress test. There are several reasons why you may need a nuclear stress test. The most common reasons are as follows.

Diagnosing Heart Conditions

A nuclear stress test assesses whether someone has coronary artery disease. It is also helpful in diagnosing several other heart conditions and assessing the severity of heart disease.

Treatment Assessment

If you are undergoing treatment for heart issues, a nuclear stress test can help assess your treatment. Your doctor can use the information to determine whether other treatments are necessary or if you are on the right track.

Apex Cardiology

The team of experts at Apex Cardiology is skilled in nuclear stress tests. If you feel you need to schedule an appointment for a nuclear stress test, contact their team today! 

Mammograms are an important screening tool used to detect breast cancer. It’s highly effective as it can detect breast cancer often before you experience any symptoms. A mammogram is a smooth and non-invasive tool that utilizes X-ray technology to get a picture of your breast tissue. Regular mammograms are necessary for women of average risk over the age of 40. Even though mammograms are a routine screening tool, many women experience anxiety around it. Below are some helpful tips for coping with mammogram anxiety.

Coping With Mammogram Anxiety

Anxiety around mammograms is common for so many women. Many women fear the appointment and are awaiting their results. This can impact your day and cause unnecessary stress. Finding ways to cope is key, as it can help you stay calm. Consider the following ways to cope with mammogram anxiety.

Educate Yourself

One of the best ways to cope with anxiety regarding mammograms is to educate yourself. If you are concerned about your first in-office mammogram, talk with your doctor, a friend, or a family member about the process. This can help you feel prepared and more in control on the day of your mammogram. If you are concerned about the waiting period until your results, ask your doctor how long it takes. This can help you understand when you should be getting your results. That way you don’t have to sit and wait without any information about the timing of it.

Talk to a Trusted Friend or Family Member

Talking with a trusted friend or family member can help you manage your anxiety around a mammogram. Women have been getting mammograms for decades. Despite this, it can be really stressful no matter what age you are. Ask a friend to talk with you about their experiences and let them know your fears. They may be able to give you more information or dispel any unnecessary myths. Utilizing your community of friends and family is important in stressful times.

Engage in Relaxation Techniques

Stress is a common issue many women face. From work and home life to personal relationships, stress is often everywhere. Finding a way to manage your stress is critical. Many women find peace through meditation, yoga, or deep breathing. Find something that works for you and employ that strategy before and after your mammogram. Even just 5 minutes a day can help reduce your stress and provide you with peace and calm.

Stay Busy

If you are concerned about your mammogram, plan your schedule before and after your appointment. This can help you stay focused and avoid ruminating over the appointment. Plan something that requires focus before your appointment. This may be a work meeting or other task that needs to be done. Alternatively, plan something fun afterward. This can be a coffee date with a friend or a movie. Be sure to keep yourself busy after the appointment until you get your results so you can keep your mind off of it. 

Women’s Health Center in Abilene

Women aged 40 and over who are at an average risk for breast cancer should be getting regular mammograms. For those who are high-risk, you may need to get your first mammogram sooner. Those at high risk are those with close family members who have had breast cancer. Early detection is key, so it’s important to work with your doctor to assess your risk.

If you are due for a mammogram, consult with the women’s health center in Abilene. They offer mammograms and provide you with fast results. The team at West Texas Health is committed to providing you with the best care. Contact their team today to schedule an appointment!

While practicing skincare is not new to the modern age, it has become increasingly popular in recent years. As the practice becomes more popular, the available treatment options become more numerous and widespread. Naturally, this also leads to the rise of unexpected treatments. One such treatment is the Kim Kardashian-approved Salmon Sperm Facial.

Bustle recently spoke with Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery Inc.’s own Dr. Gabriel Chiu about the Salmon Sperm Facial. We recap their discussion below.

Is It Actually Sperm?

The name Salmon Sperm Facial is not exactly a misnomer, but it does simplify the reality of the facial. The facial is performed by injecting Rejuran under a patient’s skin to improve their skin elasticity and give their complexion a smoother and more youthful appearance. The main ingredient in Rejuran is PDRN, which scientists extract from salmon milt, the sperm-containing fluid in male fish. This means that while the Salmon Sperm Facial does not directly use salmon sperm for treatment, it does utilize components from the same source.

The History of Salmon Sperm in Skincare

Though the use of salmon sperm as a skincare tool may seem contemporary, Dr. Chiu explained to the team at Bustle that salmon sperm has had a use in skincare for many years. In fact, he said that salmon milt has been used in skincare since the 1980s and has been used as a bio-stimulator “for about 15 years.” Additionally, Bustle says that the modern version of the Salmon Sperm Facial has been around for about nine years.

What is the Process?

Dr. Chiu describes the facial as “the injection of Rejuran in microdroplets under the skin of the face and neck.” In this way, it is similar to other dermal filler procedures, which involve injecting patients under the skin for the desired effect.

Benefits of Salmon Sperm Facial

The idea of the facial can initially be challenging to get behind. Nonetheless, the procedure has some truly incredible benefits. Dr. Chiu describes some of the benefits himself in his interview with Bustle, saying, “Some of the most notable benefits of the salmon sperm facial are that it smooths the texture of the skin, shrinks pores, reduces acne scars, improves skin hydration, promotes collagen production, improves fine lines, and reverses signs of aging.”

Even better, Dr. Chiu also stated to Bustle that “any skin type can benefit from the treatment,” so anyone interested in the Salmojn Sperm Facial can undergo it. Like most skincare treatments, though, it is best for older patients. Dr. Chiu specifically stated that “those with skin damage from sun exposure and aging are likely to see the most [results]” from the procedure.

That said, the treatment’s incredible benefits should not be a huge surprise, as there are many studied benefits of fish oil and fish-heavy diets. Still, just as there are benefits to the Salmon Sperm Facial, there are risks to be aware of.

Risks of Salmon Sperm Facial

As with all cosmetic procedures, the Salmon Sperm Facial has some risks. These include injection site reactions, such as swelling, bruising, and redness, though these symptoms should disappear a few days after treatment. A more serious reaction would occur if a patient is allergic to PDRN. This is unlikely but not impossible, so it is essential to speak with a doctor if considering this facial.

Chiu’s Final Thoughts on the Facial

Dr. Chiu concluded his discussion with Bustle by summarizing his thoughts on the procedure: “Only time will tell if the Salmon Sperm Facial will actually gain FDA approval in the US. I’m sure that there are many who will jump on the bandwagon to exploit the latest trends, but from what I have reviewed about its claims versus actual results, I won’t be jumping on just yet.”

Root canal treatment is a standard procedure performed in cases of severe tooth decay. But does root canal treatment hurt? Please read our article to learn more about the procedure, its benefits, and recovery tips.

Does Root Canal Treatment Hurt?

Modern anesthetics allow dentists to perform even the most invasive treatments with little to no discomfort for the patient. Root canal treatment is not an exception, and most patients report not feeling any pain during the procedure. In some cases, patients might feel discomfort or slight pain during the root canal treatment. However, your dentist might be able to adjust the strength of the anesthetic during the procedure if you are in pain. 

Once the anesthetic wears out after the procedure, you will most likely feel soreness and tenderness at the treatment site for a couple of days. But keep in mind that the tooth decay pain you most likely experience before the procedure is much greater than that you might feel after the tooth is treated. The post-root canal treatment soreness typically can be remedied with over-the-counter painkillers, such as Ibuprofen. 

If you feel a lot of anxiety because of the upcoming procedure and if your pain tolerance is very low, ask your dentist about sedation dentistry. It might be a good option for you, as the relaxant is administered before the procedure begins and allows the patient to go through the procedure without stress. 

What Is Root Canal Treatment?

Root canal treatment is done in cases of severe tooth decay. It involves accessing the pulp chamber of the tooth and removing the infected pulp. After your dentist cleans the canals of the tooth from infection, they will be filled with a special biocompatible dental material and sealed. This prevents the reinfection of the tooth. 

In some cases, if the infection severely weakens the tooth, a dental crown is placed on top of it after the root canal treatment is complete. The crown reinforces the tooth and protects it from future damage. 

Benefits of Root Canal Treatment

To help cope with anxiety about root canal treatment, keep its benefits in mind:

• Root canal treatment helps eliminate the source of the infection in the mouth, preventing the surrounding teeth from also getting infected and decaying. Thus, it improves your oral health.
• Root canal treatment helps save the infected tooth from extraction and avoid more complicated and expensive treatments, such as dental implants, in the future. 
• By eliminating the harmful bacterial growth in the mouth, root canal treatment helps prevent gum disease—chronic infection of the gum tissue. Gum disease is a dangerous condition because it weakens the support for the teeth and can penetrate and destroy the jawbone, leading to tooth loss. 
• Root canal treatment improves your general health. Bacteria and infection in the mouth can negatively affect the well-being of other organs in the body, for example, the gastrointestinal system. The health of the gut is closely linked to the appearance of the skin and the mood and energy levels. Also, gum disease is associated with heart, lung, joint, and blood sugar issues. Thus, by treating tooth decay with a root canal procedure, you can boost your quality of life. 

Recovery Tips After Root Canal Treatment

To make sure that your recovery is fast and smooth, follow several tips we list below:

• Avoid eating for several hours after the procedure, especially while the anesthetic is still working. 
• Chew your food on the other side of the mouth for a couple of days after the procedure to avoid damaging the newly restored tooth and let it fully heal.
• Adhere to a soft diet that does not require a lot of chewing or biting for several days after the procedure. The options of such a diet might include yogurts, cottage cheese, smoothies, pate, soft pasta, etc. 
• Use cold compresses if you experience swelling. Apply the compress for 15 minutes at a time to the outer side of your chick and take 30-minute breaks between the applications.
• Keep your head alleviated during the night to reduce the swelling.
• Take over-the-counter painkillers if you feel soreness or pain. However, remember to never exceed the recommended dose. 
• Maintain thorough oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing every night. Also, rinse your mouth with warm salt water after every meal.
• Avoid sports and other strenuous activities for at least a week after the procedure. 

Make an Appointment Today

If you have signs of severe tooth decay and experience pain, do not hesitate to make an appointment at Smiles of Arcadia today. A root canal in Arcadia is an effective way to eliminate the infection in the mouth, save your tooth from extraction, and boost your oral and general health. Our specialists will ensure that the procedure is stress-free. We are looking forward to your visit.

Liposuction surgery is a handy tool that surgeons use to repair, reshape, and reform certain parts of the body. Though it is commonly misconstrued as a weight loss procedure, it offers plenty of additional benefits. Liposuction can be used for things like fat harvesting and abdominal reconstruction during a tummy tuck. In most cases, liposuction results are meant to be enjoyed for life. Below, we cover how to prepare for liposuction revision.

How to Prepare for Liposuction Revision

But what happens when your surgery does not go as planned? Perhaps you encountered some trouble during recovery. Or, maybe you did not end up liking your results after you healed. Whatever the case may be, you might be the perfect candidate for liposuction revision surgery. In the article below, our Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery Inc. experts will show you step by step how to prepare for liposuction revision.

Step 1: Be Candid During Your Consultation

When you have your first one-on-one visit with Dr. Chiu, you should explain exactly what is wrong with your liposuction results and what you would like to achieve with this revision. We will work with you to make the perfect treatment plan. We must know why you are dissatisfied with your current state to create something that more closely aligns with your aesthetic goals.

Revisions look different for everyone. Your revision liposuction might involve areas of your body that have already undergone liposuction treatment. These areas may be more difficult to treat, but our techniques can absolutely help you with revision.

Step 2: Maintain Your Weight

Extreme weight fluctuations can cause symptoms such as flabby skin and stretch marks. Many people sign up for liposuction in the first place because they want to reshape their bodies after going through a weight change. You might have experienced more weight fluctuation after the fact, which can warp your results. You can make sure this does not happen again by remaining close to your target weight before signing up for a revision.

Step 3: Avoid Drinking, Smoking, and Some Medications

Once your surgery date is set, you should start preparing for your liposuction revision at home. You might want to stop certain bad habits such as smoking or drinking, as this will only slow down the healing process and inhibit your results from flourishing altogether. Additionally, certain medications might dangerously interfere with anesthesia during surgery. Make sure to let your doctor know about all of the medications you are taking and how often you take them.

Step 4: Educate Yourself About the Procedure

Your medical team will let you know about the ins and outs of liposuction revision surgery so you are not left with any questions going into your procedure. Whether you are worried about anesthesia or you want to know more about the process of liposuction revision, we are here to answer your questions before your appointment. It will give you better peace of mind to know what your surgeon will be doing while you are on the operating table. Revision liposuction can include a variety of techniques such as fat grafting or fat removal.

Step 5: Prepare for Recovery

The biggest part of preparing for liposuction revision is getting ready for recovery. Make sure you have a clean and restful place at home to keep you comfortable while your body rejuvenates. You should surround yourself with water and snacks that will keep you satisfied even when you are in pain. If you are worried about feeling pain, we can prescribe a painkiller medication that will ease some of the initial symptoms.

You can expect some swelling and bruising around the surgery site. This is normal and should dissipate within a few days. Your surgeon will be in touch with you throughout your recovery to make sure that everything is healing as planned. It is a good idea to avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting for a few weeks following your procedure. Your doctor can give you a timeline of when you can start to see your new and improved results. Thankfully, you should not have to wait very long.

Find the Best Liposuction Revision Options at BHPSI

From ruined liposuction results to botched facelifts, there is nothing that we cannot treat through our innovative revision plastic surgery in Beverly Hills. The best way to guarantee success the second time around, however, is to be educated about your current results as well as your future goals. Knowing what caused you to be unhappy with your results can help us avoid making that same mistake during revision. Depending on your individual needs, you can become a candidate for one of our many liposuction revision techniques.

Get in touch with Dr. Chiu and his team of plastic surgery revision experts to learn more.

Stretch marks are an unfortunate physical trait that can be an eyesore for those who have them. Getting rid of them can be somewhat aggravating, as they tend to arise suddenly or after events out of a patient’s control. However, there are steps an individual can take to stop stretch marks from forming in the first place. These preventative measures can save a patient a large amount of time and money in the long run. If you have stretch marks or are worried that you may be vulnerable to developing them, this guide describes how stretch marks can be prevented.

What are Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks, also known as striae, are indented streaks that appear on various parts of the body when the skin is stretched beyond its comfort zone.

Stretch marks are not of medical concern but can be aesthetically bothersome. Often, stretch marks fade naturally over time. However, some stretch marks tend to linger and require professional intervention to resolve. Long-lasting stretch marks have the potential to worsen one’s well-being by diminishing self-esteem and one’s self-image. Therefore, if a person has the ability and resources to get rid of their stretch marks, they will likely see the payoff in the long run.

What are the Symptoms of Stretch Marks?

Stretch marks can appear in many different forms. That said, there are many easy-to-identify signs of stretch marks, such as:

• Itchiness
• Irritation
• Discoloration on the skin
• Sunken lines under the skin
• Glossy-looking skin

Of course, stretch marks will appear and function differently for each person, and it never hurts to have an expert assess your stretch marks to determine their severity.

Risk Factors for Stretch Marks

Several factors can increase the likelihood that an individual develops stretch marks. Being aware of these factors can help you prepare for and take more active steps to treat stretch marks. Qualities that increase the chance of one developing stretch marks are:

• Being overweight
• Being pregnant
• Using corticosteroids
• Undergoing breast augmentation
• Having certain genetic disorders
• Having a family history of stretch marks

Can Stretch Marks Be Prevented?

Luckily, stretch marks can be prevented. There are several methods for preventing stretch marks, and finding out which ones best suit your routine can help provide a sense of security that you will be able to prevent their development. Those interested in preventing stretch marks should consider adhering to the following:

• Drink enough water: Hydration is one of the best lines of defense for the body in general and can help prevent the development of stretch marks.
• Eat plenty of Vitamin C: Vitamin C is one of the best compounds for skin health and is doubly useful for preventing stretch marks. Including a healthy amount in your diet can help you prevent the development of stretch marks.
• Control your weight: Dramatic weight loss or gain is one of the most common causes of stretch marks. Making more modest and gradual weight gains can help prevent the development of stretch marks.
• Eat plenty of nutrients: Eating a well-balanced diet high in nutrients can maintain the presence of collagen and elastin fibers in your skin, making it less susceptible to stretch marks.
• Keep track of when they appear: It is easier to treat stretch marks that have recently appeared than those that have been left to linger. Making an appointment with a dermatologist sooner rather than later can help you resolve this issue before it becomes too severe.
• Get plenty of sun: Vitamin D is another compound essential for skin health. Fortunately, the sun is a plentiful source of Vitamin D. Getting some healthy sun on the parts of your skin that you often cover can help prevent the development of stretch marks. If you are sensitive to the sun, consider taking a vitamin D supplement.

Your Cosmetic Resource in Beverly Hills

Epione Plastic Surgery offers a full suite of resources to aid patients in fading their stretch marks or preventing their development. If you would like to discuss stretch marks with a cosmetic dermatologist in Beverly Hills, contact our office today to schedule a consultation.

Many patients find an upcoming root canal treatment daunting. However, root canals are a common, safe, and well-researched procedure that has been used in dentistry for decades. In most cases, root canal treatment is pain-free and stress-free. Please read our article to learn how to prepare for a root canal and ensure the procedure goes as smoothly as possible.

How to Prepare for Root Canal

A root canal procedure typically does not require a patient to have complicated preparations. However, the tips we list below might help you to have a more stress-free procedure.

Abstain from Alcohol and Tobacco Before the Procedure

Both alcohol and tobacco products slow down the body’s healing processes, which are necessary for recovery after the root canal. Also, alcohol and tobacco can interfere with the anesthetic or sedation that will be administered before the procedure. Thus, it is advisable to avoid these products for at least 24 hours before the root canal treatment. 

Get a Full Night’s Rest Before the Procedure

After a root canal treatment, your body will require strength to recover properly. The body’s ability to heal and restore itself is most effective when we are asleep. For a smoother and faster recovery, we recommend sleeping for at least eight hours the nights before and after the procedure.

Eat Before the Procedure

It is recommended not to eat for a couple of hours after the procedure, especially before the anesthetic wears out, to avoid damaging the restored tooth or biting yourself. So, having a filling, nutritious meal before the procedure will help you sustain yourself until you can eat again and give you the necessary energy for recovery. However, if you are going to be sedated during the procedure, ask your dentist about the appropriate eating schedule beforehand, as it might be necessary to abstain from food for a longer period. 

Stay Informed About the Procedure

Ask your dentist all your questions during your consultation. Staying informed about the procedure, the preparation, and the recovery period can help relieve anxiety about root canal treatment and make the procedure much smoother than it would be otherwise. Remember that your dentist would not recommend this procedure if it did not benefit you.

Ask Your Dentist About Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry can be a good option for patients who experience acute anxiety and stress before operations. Mild or complete sedation can help the patient feel calmer during the treatment and simplify the procedure. 

Think of Ways to Relieve Anxiety if You Are Nervous

Beyond sedation dentistry, there are other ways to relieve dental anxiety. We have already mentioned that having your dentist answer your questions and learning about the procedure’s benefits can help you stay calmer. You can also try exploring breathing and relaxation methods, ask a friend to accompany you, and plan to reward yourself for going through with the treatment.

Take the Medication Prescribed by Your Dentist

In some cases, your dentist might prescribe antibiotics or other medication to take before the procedure. Make sure to follow the prescription and the recommended schedule for taking those medications.

Prepare a Soft Diet for After the Procedure

It is advisable to adhere to a soft diet for several days after the root canal treatment to avoid straining or damaging your newly repaired tooth. We recommend preparing the food in advance to avoid the need to travel to the store during the recovery period. Examples of soft diet foods that do not require much chewing include smoothies, yogurt, pure soup, mashed potatoes or other vegetables, pate, soft pasta and bread, etc. Remember that your diet should also be nutritious to give your body the necessary vitamins and energy for healing and restoration. 

Plan Down Time for After the Procedure

It is crucial to avoid sports or other strenuous activities for several days after the root canal procedure. Make sure to plan downtime and take a couple of days off work to be able to rest fully and help your body heal.

Prepare Painkillers and Other Medication in Advance

You might require over-the-counter painkillers and antibiotics (if prescribed by your dentist) for several days after the procedure. We recommend buying these medications in advance and having them on hand during recovery time. You might also need to prepare an ice pack to have cold compresses if you experience swelling after the root canal procedure.

Make an Appointment Today

The dental office in Arcadia offers high-quality, effective, and stress-free root canal treatment procedures to our patients. If you experience toothache caused by tooth decay or any other dental issues, do not hesitate to make an appointment at our office today. Our specialists look forward to welcoming you and your family to Smiles of Arcadia.

Breast augmentation has benefited many women worldwide and remains one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries. Not only does it offer women the chance to enhance their physical appearance, it also boosts their self-confidence. Medical and surgical advancements have given rise to more options for patients seeking breast augmentation. Among these, natural breast augmentation has emerged as an excellent alternative to traditional breast augmentation. Understanding the difference between these two procedures is crucial to choosing the right one for you. If you are curious about how natural breast augmentation and traditional breast augmentation differ, read on for an explanation from Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery Inc.

How Does Natural Breast Augmentation Differ From Traditional Breast Augmentation?

Traditional Breast Augmentation

Traditional breast augmentation usually involves the use of synthetic implants to enhance breast size and shape. This procedure has undergone improvement and refinement over the years, resulting in more reliability and predictability in achieving the desired breast aesthetics.

The incision site for traditional breast augmentation differs depending on the patient’s desire and doctor’s recommendations. The most common incisions for breast augmentation are:

• Inframammary incision, which is under the breast
• Periareolar incision, which is around the areola
• Transaxillary incision, which is in the armpit
• Transumbilical incision, which is through the belly button

Types of Implants

Many types of implants are available to patients who undergo breast augmentation. Options include silicon impacts, which mimic the feel of natural breasts and are known for their durability and natural appearance; and saline implants, which are slightly firmer than silicone implants and made with saline salt water to have a uniform shape and firmness.

Surgical Procedure

During the procedure, your surgeon will use an incision pattern to create an opening where the implants will then be placed.

Recovery and Risks

In the weeks after surgery, patients are advised to avoid strenuous exercises and follow surgeon instructions. While the risks are relatively low, it is crucial to be aware that breast augmentation, as with any surgical procedure, comes with risks. These include infection, implant rupture, scarring, changes in nipple sensation, wrinkling of the skin over the implant, your body’s rejection of the implant, and inability to breastfeed or the production of less milk compared to before the augmentation.

Longevity and Maintenance

Although implants are designed to be safe and long-lasting, they are not eternal. Patients should be aware that touch-up breast augmentation surgery is likely.

Natural Breast Augmentation

Natural breast augmentation involves transferring the patient’s fat from another part of the body to enhance her breasts. It is minimally invasive, requiring only 2-3 mm incisions. Natural breast augmentation is appealing to those who want to have a more natural look and feel without the use of synthetic implants.

Procedure

Natural breast augmentation involves two main steps.

1. Liposuction: Fat cells will be harvested from your abdomen, thighs, and other parts of the body where excess fat is present through a liposuction technique.
2. Purification and Injection: The harvested fat will be purified, and your surgeon will then carefully inject the purified fat into your breasts. You need a skilled and precise surgeon to ensure that the fat is evenly distributed and the results have a natural contour.

Recovery and Risks

Recovery from natural breast augmentation is usually shorter than that of traditional breast augmentation. In addition, patients experience less post-operation discomfort compared to traditional breast augmentation patients. Swelling and bruising will occur but typically subside within a few weeks.

The primary risk of natural breast augmentation is that the body may reabsorb the implant fat, which would decrease breast size. There is also a risk of cyst formation or calcified areas.

Longevity and Maintenance

The results can be long-lasting, but actual endurance will depend on factors like weight fluctuations and aging. Unlike implants that may need replacement, the fat that survives the transfer process is permanent. However, touch-ups may be required to maintain your desired look.

Make the Right Choice

Your choice between traditional and natural breast augmentation procedures depends on different factors such as your desired outcome, your body type, your personal preferences, etc. Remember that every person is different, so what is perfect for another may not be ideal for you. It is important to discuss your preferences, your medical history, and other pertinent details with your surgeon so that they can guide you in making the right choice for your unique body. 

Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery Inc.’s team of experts can evaluate your anatomy and help you determine the ideal breast augmentation procedure. Contact their team today to beautify your body and raise your confidence.

Orbital trauma refers to a spectrum of physical injuries, diseases, and congenital disorders that hurt the orbital area. Physical injuries and lesions on the eyelids may require orbital trauma care. Conditions such as ptosis and blepharospasms can worsen overall eye health when left untouched by surgical intervention. Depending on your individual needs, we will recommend the best avenue of treatment. 

What treatments are available for orbital trauma at the office of our oculofacial reconstructive surgeon? This quick guide will discuss specific forms of orbital trauma and their most effective treatment options. 

What is Orbital Trauma?

The area around your eyes is susceptible to damage. A blow to the eye can cause a myriad of orbital issues, leading to physical and medical trauma. A car accident or a collision with a wall, for example, can cause a variety of problems around the eyes. 

The most common type of orbital trauma is an orbital fracture. Orbital fractures occur when the fragile bony structure surrounding your eye is hit with such a force that it breaks. Such impact can cause a fracture that “blows out” your orbital bone and causes it to fall out of alignment. While some minor cases of orbital trauma may not need surgical intervention, anyone dealing with symptoms of pain and swelling due to an orbital fracture should receive treatment right away.

Orbital Trauma Treatment Options

The first step to determine what course of treatment is best for you is to schedule a consultation with our surgeon. During your appointment, give as many details as possible about the type of injury you are dealing with. Aside from a bony fracture, orbital trauma can also indicate underlying issues such as ptosis or Graves’ Disease. The doctor will want to rule out as many causes as possible to find the best solution. 

At the office of Dr. Jennifer Murdock, we typically offer three distinct treatments for orbital trauma: 

Reconstruction

Full reconstruction is usually only used as a last resort, necessary only in cases of extreme emergency trauma. During reconstructive surgery, the surgeon uses various techniques, such as bone grafting and mesh reconstruction, to create a stable orbital structure. 

Reconstructive surgery can also involve orbital decompression. Certain conditions, such as emphysema, can put undue pressure on the orbital area, causing significant pain and swelling behind the eye. Orbital decompression releases some of this pressure, creating a larger space for your eyes to rest in their proper place. 

Orbital Implants

You might have gone through an injury or illness that has caused your eye to be removed. If you are missing an eye, you can receive an orbital implant in your eye sockets. This natural-looking implant can support the structure of your orbital bone while also providing great aesthetic appeal. 

Orbital implants are a recommended course of action for anyone struggling to regain confidence after losing an eye. We can carefully create and place a custom implant that will improve your facial structure and give you confidence the next time you look in the mirror.

Fracture Repair

A more common type of orbital trauma surgery that we provide includes fracture repair. Fractures can range from mild to severe, so it is important to check with your doctor first to see if surgery is the correct way to go. Major orbital fractures happen when part of the orbital bone breaks away from the rest of it, creating a spatial gap. Orbital surgery can use techniques like skin and bone grafting to create a support around the broken piece of bone.

Reconstruction from Previous Surgery

Orbital surgery requires a high level of precision and expertise. From time to time, a surgeon can make a mistake, leaving you with less-than-favorable results. Your botched surgery might also result from an injury that occurred during the healing process. Whatever the reason for your current dissatisfaction with the state of your orbital bone, you can opt for reconstructive surgery. 

Find Treatment for Your Orbital Trauma Today

Whether your orbital trauma is new or has been building up over a long period, appropriate treatments are available to fit your specific needs. Get informed about orbital trauma and the different types of injuries and conditions that might warrant the need for surgery. 

Visit Dr. Jennifer Murdock, a top-rated oculofacial reconstructive surgeon in Miami, to schedule your consultation. Orbital trauma only worsens the longer it is left untreated, so it is a good idea to act fast. Get both reconstructive and cosmetic repair to leave you feeling refreshed, healthy, and whole again. 

A CT scan is a medical imaging tool used to see the heart and blood vessels. The results allow your doctor to see any potential issues in your heart. It can also be used to monitor your progress if you are undergoing medical treatment for your heart. The procedure is non-invasive and highly effective. Below, you will find information detailing when you should go for cardiac CT imaging.

When Should You Go For Cardiac CT Imaging?

A CT scan is also referred to as a cardiac computed tomography scan. It is highly effective in detecting several heart conditions because it examines your heart and blood vessels. Your primary care provider or cardiology doctor may recommend it. It is critical to follow their instructions, as the results can provide vital information about your health. There are several reasons someone should get a CT scan.

Coronary Artery Disease

CT scans are helpful in detecting coronary artery disease. The imaging detects blockages and narrowing of the arteries, among other important information. This information can reduce your risk for heart attacks and other cardiac complications. Your cardiology doctor uses the information to create an effective coronary artery disease treatment plan.

Congenital Heart Defects

Congenital heart defects can impact your heart and overall health. A CT scan effectively gets images of the entire heart. These details allow a cardiology doctor to diagnose and monitor the defect. Undiagnosed congenital heart defects can result in serious health issues. Medical intervention is key, and a CT scan can help your doctor create a treatment plan that is right for you. 

Heart Valve Issues

Heart valve issues can impact your health and lead to serious health issues. Valve issues often involve narrowing or leakage. A CT scan can evaluate the function of your heart valves. This information can aid your cardiology doctor in finding a treatment plan for you. Surgical intervention may be necessary. This is why it is critical to get a CT scan when your doctor recommends it.

Management and Evaluation

CT scans are important when diagnosing several heart conditions. However, they are also an effective tool for evaluating and monitoring heart conditions. They can assess how treatment is going for a heart condition and be used before or after surgery to see any changes that have occurred. CT scans are a highly valuable tool used by cardiology doctors to ensure your heart health stays in good shape.

Non-Invasive Cardiac CT Imaging

Preparing for a CT scan is simple. It’s helpful to follow your cardiology doctor’s instructions. This may include fasting, adjusting your medications, and following other pre-scan instructions. You should also avoid wearing jewelry when you go to your appointment. Be sure to consult with your primary care provider before adjusting any of your medications. 

The scan is non-invasive and fairly fast. You should be in and out of the office within 90 minutes. Non-invasive cardiac CT imaging involves several steps. You will need to lie down on a table during the scan. Electrodes may be placed on your chest to monitor your heart rate. A dye is injected into your body to improve the clarity of the CT scan images. From there, you need to stay still and may be prompted to hold your breath. Once the imaging is complete, a radiologist will analyze the images. From there, your doctor will reach out to you regarding your results. 

Apex Cardiology

The team at Apex Cardiology has helped countless patients improve their heart health. If you need a CT scan, contact Apex Cardiology to schedule your appointment!