In 1992, the FDA declared a moratorium on silicone breast implants in the U.S. amid concerns of health risks related to ruptures. Since then, the standard implant available for cosmetic procedures has been saline filled, but many women have been unhappy with the less-natural look and feel.

Now, silicone implants are poised for a comeback. A new type of implant, filled with cohesive silicone gel, has been used for over 10 years in Europe with good results—and clinical trials are currently underway in this country. “The big difference is that the silicone gel is firmer, with a consistency resembling that of a ‘gummy bear’,” says Dr. Burnett. “This improves both durability and shape retention, while still delivering the natural feel that made silicone implants so popular.” Since the gel does not shift from one area of the implant to another, it prevents the folds that weakened the old-style implants and led to breaks and leaks. The new product also offers a wide variety of anatomically-based shapes and sizes, enabling the doctor and patient to choose—prior to surgery—the implant that best suits what the patient wants “This reduces operating time and virtually guarantees the desired result,” says Dr. Burnett.

FDA approval is expected this month, at which point Dr. Burnett will begin using the new implants with appropriate patients. “I am excited by the benefits this product offers, and believe my patients will be equally thrilled.”

Considering breast augmentation? Join us on Wednesday May 18th from 6PM – 7:30PM, when we welcome Ralph Russo of Inamed, one of the country’s leading breast implant manufacturers. Call our office today to RSVP or visit our Web site for seminar details.

Dermatologist Dr. Zein E. Obagi developed the Obagi Skin Health Restoration concept, and his company trains physicians and their aesthetic staffs to use the products and counsel patients. The process takes 6 to 18 weeks, beginning with a course of treatment involving Obagi Nu-Derm products. These include the exfoliant Retin A and skin bleaching agents that remove the outer layer of dead cells, even skin tone and shrink pores. We follow this with a Blue Peel, a medium-intensity peel that uses a solution of trichloroacetic acid (TCA) to smooth the surface of the skin, as well as an at-home maintenance program.

While the process is certainly not a “quick fix,” our patients have achieved such dramatic results that they feel it is well worth the wait!

Want to know more about the Obagi experience? Sign up for our Wednesday, April 27th educational seminar, scheduled from 6PM – 7:30PM in our offices. Call today to RSVP or log on to our Web site for details.

Spring’s warm, fragrant breezes lift our spirits and invite us outdoors—but increased exposure to the elements can be a shock to winter-tender skin. Taking it slow is the best approach to transitioning between the seasons, making subtle changes in your daily regimen and keeping skin well protected.

• Whether you are a city dweller or live for the beach, now is the time to be extra-diligent about sunscreen. Slather on an SPF 30 daily to protect skin from damaging UVA and UVB rays.
• The humidity is rising, but with the drying effects of sun, air conditioning, even acne medication, it is wise to continue to keep skin well hydrated. Consider switching from a cream moisturizer to a lighter lotion—and for extra coverage, try using a tinted moisturizer instead of foundation.
• Eyes are a focal point for spring makeup, and well-groomed brows are a key element of the season’s dramatic look. Amalia Riccardi at Skin Savvy works magic with wax and scissors, reshaping brows to open eyes and transform your entire face. Amalia Riccardi, owner of Skin Savvy, offers expertise in skin care and advanced aesthetic treatments that compliments the services of our practice. 100 Quimby Street, Suite 4, Westfield, 908.301.1500, www.myskinsavvy.com.
  
  

Patricia Burnett, RN, specializes in guiding patients through the pre and post-operative experience. In this column, she shares her tips on how to feel better—and heal better.

A speedy recovery depends as much on helping your body heal from the inside as it does on surrounding yourself with external comforts. Over time, we have seen how certain pre and post-op suggestions have benefited our patients, and as a result we are now recommending them on a routine basis. For instance, one to two weeks prior to surgery we are putting everyone on a daily regimen of multivitamins, zinc (220 mg) and Vitamin C (1000 mg). This helps build up your immune system and aids the body’s healing ability post-op—a time when patients typically do not eat well and are not getting the nutrients they need.

After surgery, Dr. Burnett is relying less on narcotics and using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications to manage pain and swelling. This causes less upset to the GI tract and helps reduce or eliminate post-op nausea.

We also encourage you to stock up on electrolyte replacement drinks such as Gatorade or Powerade (as long as you are not diabetic and can tolerate the sugar). As much as I love water and its ability to hydrate the body, it cannot adequately replace the electrolytes we need to help keep our vital organs functioning properly. Think of it as pampering yourself from the inside out!

Have a helpful hint to share? Email us at Transformations@contourdoc.com and we will include it in a future issue.