Archives April 2025

A thigh lift is a cosmetic procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the thighs. This creates a firmer and more toned appearance. This is a great procedure after weight loss or pregnancy. However, it is also beneficial if the signs of aging are visible on the thighs. A thigh lift is generally safe and effective and leaves you with legs that look amazing. You may wonder, how long does a thigh lift last? Below, you will find information about the procedure and why it is right for you.

How Long Does a Thigh Lift Last?

A thigh lift is designed to improve the shape of your thighs. It involves removing excess skin and fat from the thigh area. This results in a firmer thigh free from skin sagging and fat bulges. The results are long-lasting and are considered permanent. However, the surgery cannot stop the aging process. Natural aging can impact the thigh area. Additionally, poor lifestyle habits can impact the longevity of your results. The surgery is intended to be permanent, but it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Factors That Impact the Longevity of a Thigh Lift

A thigh lift is a great way to improve the look of your legs. Those who have experienced weight loss may have excess skin or fat on the thighs. A thigh lift is an effective plastic surgery procedure that can restore the youthful look of your legs. Below are the common factors that negatively impact the longevity of your results.

Weight

Maintaining your weight is essential to ensure your thigh lift results last. Gaining or losing a significant amount of weight after surgery can affect the shape of your thighs. It is important to be at your goal weight before surgery. After surgery, maintain that range so your results last.

Post-Surgery Recovery

After your surgery, your plastic surgeon will provide you with instructions on how to care for yourself. It is essential to follow their instructions as closely as possible. This may include wearing compression garments, avoiding strenuous activity, and keeping the incision area clean. You should also go to all of your follow-up appointments after surgery. Your surgeon will assess your recovery and make any necessary adjustments. Following these instructions is necessary for proper healing and long-lasting results.

Skin Elasticity

The natural aging process leads to a loss of collagen and elastin. These are necessary proteins that keep your skin firm. As early as your 20s, collagen and elastin production reduces. Each person is uniquely different, so some people experience age-related skin changes earlier on. Because of this, it can impact your results. A thigh lift is an effective surgery but it cannot stop the aging process.

Lifestyle Habits

Living a healthy lifestyle can positively impact the longevity of your results. This includes eating a healthy diet filled with nutrient-dense foods. This includes mostly whole foods. Reduce the amount of processed foods for optimal skin benefits. It is also important to keep yourself hydrated. In addition to a healthy diet, exercise is an integral part of your overall health. Aim to exercise at least 150 minutes each week for the best results.

Sun Exposure

Sun exposure can break down your skin. It is one of the most common causes of accelerated aging and can impact your thigh lift results. It is necessary to wear at least SPF 30 every day. While most people put it on their face, neck, and hands, it is necessary to apply it to your legs after a thigh lift.

Candidate for a Thigh Lift Procedure

The first step in moving forward with a thigh lift is scheduling a consultation with a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon. A thigh lift is a great option for those who have sagging skin, cellulite, or lumpy skin on their inner thighs. Those who have bleeding, discoloration, rashes, or chafing are also great candidates for a thigh lift.

Candidates for the procedure should be non-smokers and be in good overall health. If you do have any underlying conditions, such as diabetes, it needs to be well-managed. Patients should also be at their goal weight for a year. It is important to be at your goal weight with no plans to lose more after surgery. This can impact your results and require another surgery.

If you are cleared for surgery, the surgeon will provide you with pre-surgical instructions. It is important to follow these to ensure a smooth surgery. A thigh lift is performed on an outpatient basis, so you get to go home the same day. If you are interested in the procedure, contact Dr. Brent and his team today to schedule a consultation!

Many people become dissatisfied with the appearance of their veins on the surface of their skin, most commonly on their legs. Most of us value how our skin looks, as it’s the first thing visible to others. For that reason, those who are really bothered by the discomfort and by how their veins look may decide to get varicose vein treatment. If you are considering this option, you may be unsure about what happens after treatment. Specifically, it is natural to worry and wonder, “Do veins grow back?” In this article, we will discuss how long your treatment results can last!

What Are Varicose Veins?

First, let us define varicose veins. These are veins that are swollen, enlarged, or twisted in shape and appear on the surface of the skin. Most of the time, varicose veins are present in the legs. Because of faulty valves, the blood in the veins is not adequately returned back to the heart and instead pools in the vein. The pooling of blood is what leads to the bulging and swollen appearance of the veins under the skin.

More than just a cosmetic concern, varicose veins can have associated symptoms as well, such as pain, heaviness, swelling, and more. For comfort, health, and the added cosmetic benefit, people often seek treatment.

What Happens During Varicose Vein Treatment?

Now, let us break down different kinds of treatment, and how they alter your veins:

• Sclerotherapy: In order to close the vein, a solution is injected into it which causes it to scar and subsequently close.
• Endovenous laser treatment (EVLT) or radiofrequency ablation (RFA): Heat is applied to seal the vein shut.
• Vein stripping or ligation: The damaged vein is removed or tied off surgically.
• Phlebectomy: Through tiny incisions, small sections of the vein can be removed.

If you look a little closer, you will notice that all these procedures have a common goal: to either remove completely or close off the vein, so blood can be routed through healthier veins. Through these procedures, your varicose veins are basically removed from the body’s circulation.

So… Do Veins Grow Back?

The short answer is that the exact same vein that was closed or removed will not grow back.

That being said, it is possible for new veins to grow in the same spot, or for nearby veins to become varicose over time. What this can mean is the underlying issue that caused the varicose vein to begin with (pressure in the leg veins or weak vein valves) might still be affecting the patient.

There are some cases in which a treatment may only be partially effective. In these instances, if the vein does not fully close, blood can flow through it again. So, this is less likely if follow-up sessions are completed for a procedure that may require it (sclerotherapy).

Why Do New Varicose Veins Sometimes Show Up?

Here are some reasons why you may notice new varicose veins, even after successful treatment:

• Genetics: You are more likely to develop new varicose veins if it runs in your family.
• Age: As we age, veins and their valves weaken naturally.
• Lifestyle: A lack of exercise, weight gain, or sitting and standing for long periods can increase the pressure on your veins.
• Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and increased blood volume can cause veins to get bigger.

The symptoms associated with new veins growing back can feel similar to the original vein that was treated. So it is important to maintain regular follow-ups with your provider.

What You Can Do to Keep Veins Healthy

After vein treatment, you may be able to avoid the growth of new varicose veins by adopting habits that take care of your circulatory system, such as the following:

• As recommended by your doctor, wear compression socks.
• Exercise regularly. Consider low-impact options like walking or swimming!
• Avoid long periods of sitting or standing.
• When you are resting, elevate your legs to stimulate blood flow back to the heart.
• Maintain a healthy weight.

At any point, if you notice changes in your legs, such as new veins, pain, or swelling, be sure to check in with your doctor!

When to Talk to a Specialist

Have you had had varicose vein treatment in the past and are noticing new symptoms? Or are you starting to explore your options? Either way, it is a good idea to schedule a consultation. Getting an opinion to check on your health can help you be proactive and understand the best plan for you. Stop by our clinic for a visit with a cardiovascular specialist who can take a look at your veins!

Facial plastic surgery has become increasingly popular over the last decade. It can enhance your natural features and make you look more youthful. There have been major advancements in surgical techniques. Because of this, the results of facial plastic surgery look natural and subtle. Depending on your personal aesthetic goals, there are several surgical options. Some patients opt to improve a specific area of their face with something like a rhinoplasty. However, others may want a comprehensive approach with a facelift. You may wonder, what are the five most popular facial plastic surgeries?

What Are the Five Most Popular Facial Plastic Surgeries?

No matter what your aesthetic goals are, there are several facial plastic surgery options. There are options to address the signs of aging. Alternatively, there are surgeries that target certain areas of your face you want to enhance. Below are some of the most popular facial plastic surgeries.

Facelift

The most popular anti-aging facial plastic surgery is a facelift. Natural aging and lifestyle factors can impact the look of your face. Things like sun exposure, poor sleep, chronic stress, smoking, and poor diet can age you. Common signs of aging include fine lines, wrinkles, skin sagging, and facial fat loss. This can make you look much older than you are.

A facelift tightens the loose skin on your face and neck. This reduces the appearance of deep wrinkles and sagging skin. It can improve your jawline and the appearance of your neck. It can also take years off of your face. The results are long-lasting and provide excellent results compared to alternative treatment options.

Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty is one of the most common facial plastic surgeries. Many people are unhappy with the size and shape of their noses. However, rhinoplasty is also used to address functional issues. Many people struggle with breathing issues related to their noses. A rhinoplasty offers both cosmetic and functional benefits.

A rhinoplasty, also referred to as a nose job, improves the size and shape of your nose. It can improve your overall facial symmetry and balance. This is especially beneficial for those with large noses. A nose job also addresses issues such as bumps and dips in the nose. This can dramatically improve your profile.

Eyelid Surgery

The natural aging process and certain lifestyle factors can cause aging around the eyes. This is because the skin around your eyes is much thinner than the rest of your face. Fine lines, wrinkles, and skin sagging can make you look much older than you are. Eyelid surgery, also referred to as blepharoplasty, is the most effective cosmetic surgery to address the issues.

Eyelid surgery can be performed on your upper eyelids, lower eyelids, or both. Both upper and lower eyelid surgery remove excess skin and fat. Upper eyelid surgery also tightens the levator muscle. This is the muscle responsible for opening and closing the eyes. Both surgeries reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This results in a more youthful and awake appearance.

Brow Lift

Sagging eyebrows can age you and make you look angry. A brow lift raises sagging eyebrows and improves the appearance of the forehead. It smooths out fine lines and wrinkles to reveal a more youthful brow and forehead area. The forehead and eyebrows drop due to the natural aging process. However, this can be exacerbated by unhealthy lifestyle habits. Things like smoking, poor sleep, and chronic stress can age your face.

A brow lift is a great option for those with brow sagging and forehead wrinkles. This procedure is often combined with eyelid surgery. When done together, the procedures improve the upper facial area. These are great options for those with skin sagging and wrinkles around the eyes and forehead. Both provide long-lasting results as compared to alternative treatment options. Patients’ results look natural and can take years off of their faces.

Ear Surgery

Ear surgery, also referred to as otoplasty, improves the appearance of the ears. So many people are self-conscious about the look of their ears. Ear surgery can address the size, shape, or level of protrusion. This is common for children and teenagers. However, adults get the surgery as well.

Ear surgery improves the size, shape, and symmetry of the ears. People with the surgery no longer have to hide their ears with their hair. The surgery provides long-lasting results with minimal scarring. The surgery improves the look of the ears, but it also does so much more. Patients report a boost in confidence and self-esteem after surgery.

Cosmetic Surgery

If you are unhappy with your appearance, contact the team at Orange County Surgical Specialists today to schedule a consultation!

Lasik surgery has revolutionized the way we perceive vision correction, offering an alternative to glasses and contact lenses. However, a prominent question many are concerned about is, “Does LASIK surgery hurt?” Understanding the level of discomfort associated with LASIK is crucial for anyone considering vision correction.

Understanding LASIK

When your eye isn’t working properly due to refractive errors, many turn to LASIK as the solution to correct nearsightedness, astigmatism, and other conditions. It is the most commonly used method to fix these types of eye problems.

LASIK implements a special cutting laser to alter the shape of your cornea. For those who have no vision complications, the cornea bends light with precision onto the back of the retina. If you suffer from vision problems, this is due to the refracted light bending incorrectly, causing blurred vision.

Does LASIK Surgery Hurt?

Generally, LASIK is considered a painless procedure. Your eye surgeon will insert numbing eye drops to prevent any pain or discomfort. It is commonly reported that mild pressure or feelings of warmth during your surgery may be felt but should not progress to discomfort or pain. If you experience any pain, immediately alert your physician.

What to Expect During LASIK Surgery?

Knowing what to expect during your LASIK surgery can alleviate some pre-operation anxiety. The process is composed of a few sophisticated steps to get your blurry vision crisp and clear.

• Your surgeon will numb your eye with eye drops.  You will be awake during the entirety.
• A lid speculum is used to hold your eyelids open to prevent blinking before the special laser is deployed to create a corneal flap in your eye.
• A corneal flap is created by cutting a thin, hinged flap into your cornea.
• When using a microkeratome, a suction ring is placed, which can cause mild pressure and dim vision.
• The corneal flap is secured out of the way to expose your underlying corneal tissue.
• Using the laser, your eye surgeon will reshape the corneal tissue to light refraction error.
• You will be instructed to focus on a point of light during your operation to stabilize your eyes during the operation.
• The corneal flap is gently put back into place and will heal on its own without the need for stitches.

After your surgery, you may experience:

• Eye-watering
• Tenderness or discomfort
• Burning
• Fluctuating vision and halos.

Recovering after LASIK is a relatively easy process. Negative side effects following your surgery should subside gradually over the first 24 hours, with symptoms clearing up completely within the first three to four weeks. You must carefully follow any post-operative care instructions provided by your eye surgeon and keep any follow-up appointments to monitor progress and address any concerns related to your surgery.

Post-Operative Discomfort and Recovery

Pain and discomfort related to LASIK are typically mild and temporary, with side effects that subside throughout three to four weeks. To manage this pain and discomfort, your eye surgeon may prescribe pain medication. In addition to prescription pain medication, your medical team may also advise the use of over-the-counter pain relievers to ensure discomfort is kept to a minimum while you recover.

Only take medications as directed by your medical team. Your eye surgeon will give you all the information and instructions you need for a speedy healing process. All instructions provided to you by your care team should be taken over all else.

Consult with a Dental Professional

The idea of laser eye surgery may seem frightening. But understanding the facts about LASIK can help dispel any pre-operation anxiety about pain and discomfort. By consulting with a qualified eye surgeon and educating yourself, you can approach LASIK surgery with confidence and achieve clearer vision with minimal discomfort.

Individual experiences may vary, but it is important to remember that LASIK surgery is a safe and minimally invasive procedure that is designed to improve your vision and enhance your quality of life. By understanding common practices for pain management, properly preparing for your surgery, and following any instructions provided by your care team diligently, you can navigate the process with less anxiety and more peace of mind. Ultimately, the benefits you can gain from the power of LASIK surgery exceed any temporary discomfort you may experience.

To learn more about LASIK and how it can improve your vision, speak to a medical professional today so you can see clearer tomorrow.

Reference:

Boyd. K. (2024). LASIK- Laser Eye Surgery.

If you are debating getting a breast procedure, you may have realized that the terms “breast implants” and “breast augmentation” tend to be used interchangeably. This can lead to some confusion, and you may be wondering, “What is the difference between breast implants and breast augmentation?” As a patient, it is very important to be as informed as possible before undergoing surgery, and in this article, we will unpack what these terms mean and their differences.

What Is Breast Augmentation?

Any surgical procedure that enhances the shape or size of the breasts is classified under the umbrella of breast augmentation. These procedures are often cosmetic, but there are also some reconstructive applications, such as after a mastectomy.

Patients who choose to augment their breasts usually want to:

• Enhance the proportions of their body
• Improve symmetry of the breasts 
• Restore volume that can be lost after weight loss or pregnancy
• Reconstruct their breasts following trauma or surgery

Augmentation can be done by the use of breast implants or by opting for fat transfer. In this procedure, fat is taken from one part of the body and injected into the breasts. The purpose of the fat transfer is to naturally enhance the size or shape. Fat transfer results in more subtle enhancements and is usually fitting for those hoping for a more modest increase in breast size. When you go in for a consultation, your surgeon will discuss a plan for augmentation that best suits your goals, body, and health.

What Are Breast Implants?

Now that we have differentiated the different ways breasts can be augmented, let’s discuss breast implants. Implants can be thought of as tools or medical devices that are directly placed into the body. There are two main types of breast implants: saline and silicone.

• Saline implants are empty when inserted into the body. After they are set in place, they are filled with sterile salt water. The benefit of using saline is that the body can easily absorb the fluid in the event of a rupture. 
• Silicone implants are pre-filled with a silicone gel. These result in a feeling more synonymous with breast tissue. However, they may necessitate a larger incision site. 

Breast implants can also be different in their shape, texture, and size. The right combination of these factors can be debated and discussed with your surgeon to achieve a look that is right for you. 

Keep in mind that although implants can last a long time, they are not expected to last a lifetime. Patients could need more surgeries later in life for many reasons. Common reasons include implant rupture, personal aesthetic preference changes, and the tightening of scar tissue. 

Key Differences Between the Two

So, let us clarify again: how exactly do breast implants and breast augmentation differ from one another?

Simply put, breast augmentation is the procedure, while implants are one of the tools that can be used during said procedure. 

Which Option Is Right for You?

Choosing to augment your breasts with implants or other augmentation methods is not a decision that should be taken lightly. A board-certified surgeon should be consulted for guidance to take into account other factors before deciding on your procedural route. 

Patients who are looking for a more dramatic increase in size may choose implants. Those looking for a more subtle result may decide to use fat transfer. If you need a complete reconstruction, your surgeon can educate you on the best procedures that keep your goals and safety in mind. 

Do not forget to have a thorough conversation with your surgeon about realistic expectations from your surgery. When undergoing a body modification, it is crucial to have great communication with your surgeon to manage your expectations, both for the recovery process and the final look.

Get a Consultation!

Now you are clear on the differences between augmentation and breast implants! If you choose to follow through with surgery, you are one step closer to making an informed decision on the kind of surgery you receive. To be further informed, be sure to discuss your options with a surgeon you can trust; you can even request to see before and after surgery pictures.

If you are looking for an experienced and trustworthy plastic surgeon to evaluate your options with, stop by our clinic for a consultation today!

Believe it or not, eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, is one of the most popular cosmetic enhancements available today. This powerful cosmetic tool can breathe new life into your skin, giving you a youthful glow. It is common for patients to become eager in their pursuit of rejuvenation. Before getting too far ahead, there are aspects related to eyelid surgery you should consider. A commonly asked question that many are curious to know is, “How long does it take to recover from eyelid surgery?” This question does not have just one answer. There are several factors, like the individual and the extent of your procedure, that can influence recovery time following eyelid surgery. In most cases, individuals feel comfortable going in public within 10-14 days after surgery, but healing to completion can take a few months. Below, we go into more detail to explain the recovery timeline from eyelid surgery. 

Types of Eyelid Surgery

• Upper blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure that addresses sagging or drooping in your upper eyelids. During your surgery, excess skin and fat are removed from your upper eyelids to improve appearance and function. 
• Lower blepharoplasty is much like an upper blepharoplasty, except it targets the lower eyelid area. Excess skin and fat are removed through an incision along or inside your lower eyelid. This procedure is used to correct under-eye bags, wrinkles, and other cosmetic concerns in this area.  
• Double blepharoplasty combines both upper and lower blepharoplasty, giving your eye area a complete transformation. Your surgeon creates small incisions and removes skin and fat from your upper and lower eyelids. This cosmetic enhancement recreates a definition that has been lost due to sagging, drooping, and lifestyle factors. 

Depending on your surgeon, technique, and extent of the procedure, it takes an average of 45 minutes to one hour to complete an upper or lower blepharoplasty. If you have opted to undergo a double blepharoplasty, expect approximately two hours to complete. 

Initial Recovery

Initial recovery encompasses the time immediately following your procedure till approximately two weeks. 

• Bandages or stitches will be present immediately following your surgery. 
• Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are common symptoms during this stage of recovery. 
• You may experience blurry or double vision. 
• Eye drops and pain medications are commonly prescribed following this cosmetic enhancement.\

Two to Four Weeks After Eyelid Surgery

At the two-to-four-week mark, you should be feeling better and seeing improvement in your eye area.

• Incisions may be visible but will begin to fade over time. 
• Swelling and bruising are likely to be present but should be diminishing. 
• At this stage, you should be able to resume light activities.
• Your surgeon may give you the okay to begin applying makeup again. 

Long Term Healing

Even though you may be feeling and looking completely recovered, there may be more going on under the surface that you are unaware of during the months following your blepharoplasty. 

• It may take several months for the final results to make their appearance. 
• The small incisions may still be visible after several months, but should continue to fade. 
• To optimize the healing process, wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV rays. 

Potential Complications and Signs to Watch For

There are risk factors to take into consideration when performing any surgery. Some complications can lengthen the healing process. When this happens, seek the guidance of your surgeon to ensure optimal results. 

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Persistent vision complications
• Eyelid retraction 
• Numbness
• Double vision

Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Increased pain, swelling, or redness around the incision site.
• Drainage from your eyes or the incision site. 
• Fever.
• Shortness of breath or chest pain
• Bleeding from the incision site.
• Unusual growths under incision sites. 

Recovering From Eyelid Surgery

Recovering from eyelid surgery takes care and patience. Initial healing may take approximately two weeks, but to completely recover, it can take several months. To increase the chance of success, diligently following your surgeon’s post-operative instructions is crucial. Every patient and procedure is unique; factors such as the extent of the corrections, lifestyle, and more can influence your recovery time. 

Speak with your surgeon to discuss realistic expectations and the details of the healing process. Equipped with the knowledge and the support of your surgeon, you will be well on your way to enjoying your refreshed, rejuvenated appearance in no time. 

Eyelid Surgery in Nevada

Schedule a consultation with an eyelid surgeon today about your lower blepharoplasty. 

The heart is a vital organ that pumps blood throughout the different parts of the body. A sick heart is a cause for concern. It is not only bad for the heart, but it may also affect other organs like the kidneys or the liver. This is why, when it comes to heart health, early and accurate diagnosis is crucial. There is a specialized branch of medical imaging for assessing heart conditions that helps a cardiologist do so using small amounts of radioactive materials. This is called nuclear cardiology. It is not a surprise that some people will feel concerned about the safety of nuclear cardiology because of the word “nuclear.” This leads many patients to the question, “Is nuclear cardiology safe?” We answer this question and discuss nuclear cardiology in more detail below.

Understanding Nuclear Cardiology

Nuclear cardiology uses imaging techniques that use radioactive tracers to evaluate the heart’s function, blood flow, and overall health. The most common tests include:

• Myocardial Perfusion Imaging (MPI): This test tells the doctor how well blood flows to the heart muscle both at rest and during stress.
• Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scan: This is a highly accurate test that assesses blood flow and the heart’s metabolic function.
• MUGA (Multigated Acquisition) Scan: This is used when doctors want to measure the heart’s ability to pump blood.

These tests help doctors detect coronary artery disease, assess how severe previous heart attacks were, and evaluate the effectiveness of stents, bypass surgery, and other treatments.

How Safe Is Nuclear Cardiology?

Patients usually worry about radiation exposure while undergoing nuclear cardiology tests. The good news is that the radiation used is relatively low and is carefully regulated to keep patients safe.

Low Radiation Exposure

The amount of radiation used in nuclear cardiology can be compared to that of many other imaging tests, like CT scans. It may even be lower than the radiation used in other scans. For instance, the exposure from a myocardial perfusion scan is similar to a couple of years of natural background radiation. In other words, the benefits that come from accurate diagnosis and treatment far outweigh the minimal risk from nuclear cardiology radiation.

Strict Regulation

Agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission strictly regulate the use of radioactive materials in medical imaging. Medical professionals also ensure that radiation doses are as low as reasonably possible.

Short Half-Life of Radiotracers

The radioactive tracers used in nuclear cardiology have very short lives. They decay and are eliminated from the body within a few hours to a few days through the natural process of the patient’s body.

Personalized Dosage

The dosage of radioactive tracers is customized. They are dependent on the patient’s weight and unique medical history. This ensures the lowest possible exposure while still achieving accurate diagnostic results.

Management of Potential Risks

Nuclear cardiology is generally safe, but just like any medical procedure, some potential risks should be managed.

Radiation Exposure

Although radiation is minimal, the risk of radiation may still occur. The good news is that the risk of developing cancer from one test is extremely low.

Allergic Reactions

Some patients experience some form of discomfort or fatigue after the test, but this usually goes away quickly.

If you are anxious about these risks, you will be glad to know that doctors take multiple precautions to ensure that these risks are minimized. These precautions include screening patients for allergies, adjusting radiation doses as appropriate, and making sure that the test is necessary before proceeding.

Benefits of Nuclear Cardiology

Despite the minor risks, nuclear cardiology offers significant benefits that make it an essential tool in cardiology.

• Early Detection of Heart Disease: Even before symptoms are shown, nuclear imaging can detect coronary artery disease. This allows early intervention.
• Accurate Diagnosis: With the help of detailed images, doctors are able to pinpoint specific areas of reduced blood flow.
• Non-Invasive Procedure: Nuclear cardiology tests are non-invasive and, therefore, carry less risk than cardiac catheterization.
• Guides Treatment Plans: Nuclear cardiology provides accurate data to doctors. They can use this to tailor treatment plans according to the specific heart condition of each patient.

How to Prepare for a Nuclear Cardiology Test

• Follow any fasting instructions.
• Avoid caffeinated drinks for 24 hours.
• Inform your doctor of any medications you are taking.
• Wear comfortable clothing,

Take the First Step Towards a Healthier Heart

Nuclear cardiology is not just a reliable and effective tool for diagnosing and managing heart disease. It is also safe. Although it is normal to be concerned about radiation, it is important to remember that the doses used in these tests are low, well-regulated, and tailored to each patient. The benefits of early and accurate heart disease detection far outweigh the minimal risks involved. If you have any reason to think that you need to undergo a nuclear cardiology test, schedule a consultation with a licensed cardiologist today.

A bone density scan is a test that measures how strong your bones are. The test is effective in determining if you have osteoporosis or if you are at risk for bone fractures. It is a common test performed on the hips, spine, or wrists. It is a painless and fast test that provides important information to your doctor. You may wonder how a bone density scan is performed. Below, you will find the answer to this question and more helpful information about the test.

How Is a Bone Density Scan Performed?

A bone density scan is a smooth and quick process. It is often performed at a medical office, imaging center, or hospital. The process takes less than thirty minutes. When you check in, you will need to remove any metal objects, as it does include X-ray technology. This includes jewelry, belts, or zippers.  You can keep your clothing on during the test if it does not contain metal.

The exam is performed on a padded table. Depending on the area that is being tested, you may need to adjust your arms and legs for optimal imaging. Padded blocks or platforms may be used as well. Once you are in the right position, a scanning machine is used to take images of your bones. For the best results, it is important to stay as still as possible during the test.

Once the scan is complete, you can get off the table and collect your belongings. You can get back to your routine with ease as it is a non-invasive test. The images will be sent to a doctor, who will analyse the results. After, your doctor will reach out regarding any next steps.

Who Needs A Bone Density Scan?

A bone density scan is not for everyone. Doctors generally recommend a bone density scan for those who are at risk for bone loss. The most common demographic of people at risk is women over age 65 and men over age 70. Younger people may need to get a bone density scan if they are at high risk for issues. Younger high-risk patients include those with a family history of osteoporosis, fractures, or bone-related medical conditions. Patients who take steroids may also need regular bone density tests. 

A bone density scan at a health care clinic can help detect osteoporosis before a fracture occurs. Early detection is important so you can be proactive about your health. Treatment depends on the severity of your bone density issues. Common options include lifestyle changes and medication. These can help strengthen bones and reduce your risk of a fracture. Additionally, a scan can provide valuable information to protect your long-term bone health. Talk with your medical provider to determine when and how often you need to get a bone density scan.

Understanding Your Results

After your bone density scan, a medical professional will assess your results. Your results include a T-score. This score indicates your bone density compared to a healthy adult. A score of -1 is considered normal. This means you have strong and healthy bones. A score between -1 and -2.4 indicates low bone density, which means that you need to work with your medical provider to take proactive steps toward your bone health. 

This range indicates that you are at risk for fractures. A score below -2.5 is indicative of osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by fragile bones. If you have this condition, you are at a high risk for fractures, and you will need treatment and lifestyle changes. Specifically, these changes tend to include medication, dietary adjustments, exercise, and other lifestyle changes. Work closely with your doctor to reduce your risk of further issues.

Bone Density Scan

If you are concerned about your bone health, contact the team at West Texas Health today to schedule an appointment! 

Breast implants are one of the classic plastic surgery procedures, and have given millions of women around the world an enhanced sense of self-confidence and esteem. However, it is good to know how long do breast implants last? The good news is that most breast implants will last for some time, and it will be about 10 to 20 years before most patients will have to return to the doctor’s office to receive treatment again.

If you are interested in breast implants, our guide can help you understand how long your own might last.

What Are Breast Implants?

Breast implants are a type of image-enhancement procedure that adds volume and heft to a patient’s breasts. The procedure is one of the classics in plastic surgery practice. Besides the aesthetic enhancements offered by this procedure, it is also used in repairing breasts that have been lost or damaged due to cancer or other diseases.

Am I a Good Candidate for Breast Implants?

Most patients who have a good health profile are good patients for breast implants. Some of the general criteria that a physician will look for include:

• Realistic expectations regarding the scope of the procedure
• Good general health profile
• No negative history regarding surgery
• Non-smoker

Prior to receiving any type of surgical work, you will undergo a medical evaluation with your physician to determine your overall level of fitness and eligibility for surgery. Barring any issues, you should be approved for your procedure.

How Long Do Breast Implants Last?

There is a fairly wide range in terms of how long a patient can expect their breast implants to last. Although they will not last forever, breast implants have the potential to last for a very long time, especially if the patient takes some level of care for them.

In general, you can expect your breast implants to last from anywhere from 10 to 20 years. Some of the variability in terms of this longevity has to do with the behavior of the patient and how they treat their body. In addition, environmental factors and the type of implant that is received can also affect the overall longevity of one’s implants.

Your physician may have additional advice for you in terms of how you can maximize the time that you can maintain the highest level of quality for your implants. Following their advice should help to ensure that you do not have to return to the clinic for replacement or removal.

When Should I Replace My Implants?

Several signs can indicate it is time to replace your implants. Some of these signs can be quite dramatic, while others are more subtle. Some indicators that suggest replacing your implants include:

• Hardening: This includes the development of scar tissue in the area surrounding the implants.
• Saline rupture: Saline implants will deflate rapidly if there are ruptures that develop.
• Silicone rupture: Silicone implants can also rupture, though the visual impact of this may be more subtle than in a saline rupture. Because they are not as obvious as a saline rupture, these are often known as “silent ruptures”.
• Changes in shape and feel: Breast implants that have become slightly worn out will experience changes in size and texture.
• Position changes: If your breast changes positions quickly, abruptly, or dramatically, this can be an indication that the implant has been damaged in some fashion and needs to be replaced.

What Occurs During Implant Replacement?

A qualified plastic surgeon can assist you with implant removal and replacement. You will discuss with them what the right path forward is for you in terms of repair or replacement. The varieties of procedures include:

• Implant removal and breast lift
• Removal of hardened or lumpy tissue
• Implant removal alone
• Implant replacement with possible breast lift

Most patients will find that they receive an almost instantaneous aesthetic improvement from their procedure. However, there are some issues that can arise during a replacement or removal procedure. This includes things like:

• Sagging
• Dimpling
• Asymmetry
• Deflation

The Best Surgeon in Beverly Hills

Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery, Inc is one of the most highly regarded plastic surgery clinics in Beverly Hills. If you are interested in receiving world-class treatment and discussing your plans for breast implants, contact us today to hold an appointment with our board-certified surgeon.