“Bikini Season”

BikiniBikini season doesn’t always have to be a bad word. Every year it seems to sneak up on us faster and faster. Then you find yourself starting to plan a new diet regimen and how you can slim down to fit into that cute but tiny bikini you noticed at your favorite store. Diet and exercise is definitely a key to slimming down for the summer, but sometimes that stubborn fat is still hard to lose. With that case, your board certified plastic surgeon is your next step to help the slimming down process a little less challenging with your everyday hustle and bustle.

Not all options are invasive surgical body contouring procedures, most are noninvasive procedures. Let’s start with the basics. First change your eating habits, count your calories and eat just over all better. It is never recommended to starve yourself, this can deplete the body of it basic nutritional needs. There should be a balance with cutting calories and starving yourself. We all have that one friend who is always trying out a new diet fad, and it never seems to work for the long run. Eating healthier has to be a lifestyle change not a fad.

Next is exercise, it has been proven that if you exercise 3-5 times per week your overall health improves tremendously. Does that mean you have to hit the gym every single day? No, you don’t have to be a fitness expert to tone up and lose weight. The American College of Sports recommends a minimum of 150-250 minutes per week of moderate-intensity physical activity. That’s only 20-30 minutes a day. You could take a brisk walk through the mall or simply jogging in place. Make it easy and manageable for you.

If you are exercising regularly and eating great but those couple of pounds you just can’t seem to shed a body contouring procedure could benefit you. There are several different options from Liposuction or Liposculpture to a Tummy Tuck. Liposculpture requires less downtime and can potentially eliminate fat cells and contour your shape. Although some women are not all candidates for Liposculpture so a Tummy Tuck is then recommended. To help achieve your beach body seek advice from a board certified plastic surgeon to give you an expert opinion of which surgical procedure might benefit you!

Dr. Shienbaum is a double board-certified plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience in all forms of Cosmetic/Plastic Surgery, including Tummy Tuck/ Abdominoplasty, Liposculpture, Breast Augmentation, Brazilian Butt Lifts, and Mommy Makeovers. He provides services for the entire Tampa Bay area, including St. Pete, Largo, Clearwater, Pinellas, and Tampa, Florida. To find out more about the procedures near you, or contact us.

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Liposuction- Is it right for you?

LipoHave you recently inquired about the procedure, Liposuction? With it being named the second most popular cosmetic surgery last year many people are turning to the semi-invasive technique for great reasons. In 2015 more than 222,000 procedures were performed with the choice of personalized body sculpting of problem areas that you and your surgeon address together. Liposuction or Liposculpture has results that will last for many years without the drag of the long recovery time. With it being such a minimally invasive technique it only requires a few days of recovery and downtime. Occasionally for cases where there can be total or full body Liposculpture recovery can take up to five days.

Be aware that not every Liposuction case has the same result. Every patient is different, the key is to satisfying results is an informed and well educated patient. Both the surgeon and the patient are aware of realistic outcomes. The patient should thoroughly explain his or her expectations and the surgeon should address if your expectations are realistic for your body style. Knowing what to ask during your initial Liposculpture consultation can help determine if this is the right surgery for you! The American Board of Plastic Surgery (ASPS) has four questions that can help you in making the right choice for you.

  1. Are you board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery?

By asking this question you are inquiring their experience, training, and board certification. A plastic surgeon who is board certified has had unique and extensive training in their specialty and is required to pass rigorous board certification exams. They are required to complete continuing education credits. To be safest you should always choose a surgeon who has years of liposuction, and if they have any unique training specified to your procedure.

  1. Where will you be performing my Liposculpture procedure?

Inquire the type of facility your surgeon performs his or her procedures. Does your surgeon use an office facility, day surgery facility, or an area hospital? All are fine choices as long as they are accredited facilities. Liposuction is performed under anesthesia and is normally an outpatient procedure. An outpatient procedure is a procedure in which you would be discharged to a responsible adult to drive you home after your surgery. You will recover in the privacy and comfort of your home.

  1. What type of Liposculpture do you perform?

There are many different types of Liposuction, your surgeon will decide the best technique for you and your expected outcome. Many factors play a role in deciding the type of Liposuction- desired areas of treatment, the extent of the intended areas, and if any reinjection of fat is desired. Ask your surgeon the type of Liposuction he/she performs on a routine basis. Most skilled surgeons prefer some methods to others, but a skilled surgeon will be experiences in a variety of techniques. Always address your recovery time and what to expect following anesthesia and post-operative.

The most widely used form of Liposuction is Tumescent Liposuction. Tumescent Liposuction is a solution of epinephrine and lidocaine injected in the area, and with a tiny cannula the fatty tissue is suctioned away. Another popular method is, ultrasound-assisted Liposuction which uses ultrasound waves to liquefy the fatty tissue. This is to be used in hard to address areas, such as the neck and back. Laser-assisted Liposuction is newest but very popular. Laser Liposuction uses waves that are concentrated of laser energy to break down and target fat, then removed through a tiny cannula.

  1. Will the results of my Liposuction be permanent?

The biggest advantage to Liposuction is that the fat cells that are removed do not “return”, however, the surrounding fatty tissue can expand with future weight gain. It is recommended to stay active and have a permanent change in eating habits for longer lasting results. Of course, life happens and over time fat can accumulate by normal ageing, weight fluctuations, pregnancy, and more. Ask your surgeon how he/she recommends how you can best maintain your Liposuction results to avoid needing repeat treatments in the future.

By talking with your desired Plastic Surgeon and asking these four questions and more you can have better insight towards if Liposuction is the right procedure for you.

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Qualified Plastic Surgeons

Dr. ShienbaumPlastic surgery has many different choices but are you making the right choice? The most important choice you can make while inquiring and deciding on an aesthetic procedure is selecting a surgeon you can trust.

Many different deciding factors contribute into choosing a plastic surgeon. Read below to see some key pointers to look for during your next consultation. By choosing an American Society of Plastic Surgery (ASPS) Member Surgeon defines you have selected a surgeon who has met all there required credentials as follows

  • Completed at least five years of surgical training with a minimum of two years in plastic surgery
  • Trained and experienced in all aspects of plastic surgery procedures; face, breast, body, and reconstruction
  • Adheres in a strict code of ethic
  • Operates with accredited medical facilities only
  • Is required to fulfill continuing medical education requirements, some in patient safety
  • Board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS)

Board certification is extremely important to inquire about a plastic surgeon but you should also keep in mind their professional affiliations. As an American Society of Plastic Surgeon Member, it designates the surgeon as an elite professional in their plastic surgery community.

As an ASPS member Plastic Surgeons must perform surgeries in only Accredited facilities. An accredited facility must meet national standards for operating room safety, equipment, staff and surgeon credentials. They have an extremely low rate of complications and are found to have lower costs to patients.

When researching Plastic Surgeons their core mission should be to enhance patient care and safety by practicing and maintaining the highest standards. Although these are great recommendations to ensure trust in a plastic surgeon they cannot guarantee the results of your plastic surgery, but choosing a qualified surgeon is an important step in assuring your satisfaction and safety.

Dr. Shienbaum is a double board-certified plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience in all forms of Cosmetic/Plastic Surgery. To find out more about the procedures near you, please visit abdominoplastytampa.com

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Body Dysmorphic Disorder and Cosmetic Surgery

BodyWhen you look in the mirror, do you constantly find something just absolutely terrible with your body? You may be struggling with Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD).

Plastic surgeons are becoming increasingly familiar with patients struggling with Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD). The American Society of Plastic Surgeons survey recently noted that BDD may be “under diagnosed”. A surgeon should question your body image problems during consultation.

When interested in a cosmetic procedure and experience some type of body dysmorphic disorder the surgeon should consider and evaluate their patients for BDD. The ASPS are linking personal, social, or occupational impairment in relation to extreme dissatisfaction in body images to mental health problems- including very serious conditions such as depression, and suicide risk.

Many plastic surgeons and cosmetic professionals stated they are fairly familiar with the disorder and aware of the diagnosis. Studies have shown about two percent of the general population experiences Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) and as high as ten percent in patients seeking cosmetic procedures.

Many surgeons stated they sometimes addressed body image problems with their patients while others stated they rarely routinely did. Some surgeons collaborated with psychiatrists and psychologists to have a better understanding of BDD.

Many patients inquiring about cosmetic procedures have or experience some type of Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD). Studies have shown that after having a procedure they remain dissatisfied with their results and seek more procedures. This is a result from the effects of the disorder. As a result, Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is considered a “contraindication” for plastic surgery in other words it can hinder your ultimate expectations. Many surgeons stated they would refuse a patient they suspect with BDD because of these circumstances.

A patient with Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) should be referred to a psychiatrist or psychologist. Some surgeons have reported refusing treatment and received verbal altercations and minor legal threats. It is ultimately up to the surgeon to decide whether you are a good candidate for a cosmetic surgery or procedure, they are seeking your best interest not theirs.

With the different studies performed this suggest more surgeons should receive more education about management and recognitions in BDD. It should be a standard topic with every patient during their consultation to understand realistic expectations.

Dr. Shienbaum is a double board-certified plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience in all forms of Cosmetic Plastic Surgery, including Liposuction, Tummy Tucks, Mommy Makeovers, Breast Augmentation, and Brazilian Butt Lift. He provides services for the entire Tampa area, including St. Pete, Clearwater, and Bradenton, Florida. 

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Have you heard the term “skin rejuvenation” and wondering what it might be?

Skin RejuvinationSkin disorders, the sun, aging, and heredity are all contributors to skin irregularities on the body. The most common skin irregularity complaint is those on the face and facial region. These can include scars from acne, wrinkles, freckles and sunspots, pigmentation changes from again, or even visible blood vessels.

With aging, skin can often feel more loose, lack firmness, and cellulite starts to form in certain areas.

Set up a consultation with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, there are many different treatments to help improve your skin irregularities. Not all skin irregularities can be treated but here are some that might be treatable-

Dynamic wrinkles: dynamic wrinkles are the ones describes as having from your expression lines. They remain in the folds of the skin, even when the skin is not moving. With a facial expression or movement, they deepen.

Static wrinkles: Visible wrinkles that do not change with facial movement

Pigmentation: Freckles, darken spots of skin excluding birthmarks, sun spots (usually related to sun exposure)

Loss of skin tone: Sagging and/ or weakening of supportive skin collagen thus, relating in loss of skin firmness, and can produce cellulite

Do you think one of the above mention skin irregularities is something you may be able to improve? Your next question may be well what is the cost of something like this?

Unfortunately, there is not a set price for procedures like these, since everyone is so diverse, one person’s wrinkles may require a very minimal amount of work while others require more. When addressing the costs most surgeon will go over, facility cost, the surgeon’s fee, and prescriptions and medications. There could be additional costs. It is always recommended to sit down with your surgeon and ask for a break down if one is not provided.

As you come to a decision on a board certified plastic surgeon, keep in mind your comfort with the surgeon’s experience is just as important as the final cost of the procedure.

Call Brandon Plastic Surgery for your free initial consultation to see if you’re a candidate for a chance of skin rejuvenation– (813) 681-5709.

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Brachioplasty – What is it?

Arm liftA Brachioplasty is a medical term for removing the hanging or excess skin under your arms. The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), 2015 statics, is showing more and more women are seeing plastic surgeons for a Brachioplasty. In the past two decades, the number of upper arm lifts has risen with nearly 26,000 being performed in just 2015.

Certain treatments for addressing underarm excess skin can range from a hidden incision in the arm pit, to minor liposuction to attempt to shrink the skin after the fat has been removed. Some surgeons prefer to do the procedure in a two to three step process depending on the severity or lack of hanging skin.

First the surgeon examines the skin and feels for any fat residing in the area. Some surgeons start with removing the fat by Liposuction with a very small incision. They often recommend the patient wait to see how much of the skin will shrink and retract to avoid any scarring. If the patient’s hanging skin is more severe the surgeon might recommend an axillary Brachioplasty where they Liposuction the fat and then pull the remaining skin into a tiny hidden scar in the armpit. If the hanging excess skin is of extreme severity the surgeon will pull the skin in a visible but small scar along the back of the arm where it lays against your body. The scar is semi hidden but can be seen when an arm is raised or moved in certain positions.

Liposuction is a great option for many, but they must be a candidate and have firm skin. If a patient has experienced massive weight loss most times they are a candidate for a full Brachioplasty.

To minimize scarring and scar appearance the surgeon focuses on a scar placement and where it would fit your body best given how your arms naturally rest on/ next to your body.

Keep in mind the type of weather conditions and clothes you wear. If you live in a hot climate like Florida, most people wear tanks tops all season long. Would this affect your self-image by having a scar on or under your arms?

Some pointers before your surgery or consultation is to work out your arms a little. Some women might notice a difference in their skin because the muscle is enlarging, while your surgeon then has some musculature to outline when he liposuctions. Sometimes just working out may help your hanging skin if it’s minor.

Smoking & Cosmetic Surgery

Smoking and Cosmetic SurgeryWhile smoking can be a tricky habit to kick, you might want to after reading this if your inquiring any cosmetic surgery. While after surgery complications are unlikely, they can happen. You want to reduce the chances of these as much as possible. Smokers have a slower healing process and can sometimes cause wound complications. The last thing you want after having a cosmetic procedure is for it to heal incorrectly.

Nicotine is the one to blame. Evidence suggests nicotine has been traced to many post-surgical complications. It slows the overall healing process down because of the lack of oxygen in your blood. When healing, your body needs extra rest, oxygen, etc. By smoking you are preventing your body from healing adequately. Some might say they smoked and did not have any problems, but that is not the case for all. You are recommended to quit smoking as soon as you consider having a cosmetic surgery, some surgeons won’t even permit you to have surgery unless you have quit smoking and pass a nicotine urine analysis.

With recent new “Nicotine-free” e-cigarettes, you may be thinking I’m in the safe-zone. The FDA analysis from 2009 found e-cig cartridges contain other harmful components that can limit your healing abilities. Research has been performed and shown e-cigarettes impact skin and soft tissue differently than traditional nicotine.

The American Society of Plastic Surgery (ASPS) recommends you meet with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and discuss your smoking habits. Never be ashamed to tell your physician you slipped up and had a “smoke”. There number one priority is your well-being and healing process. Preoperative counseling and documentation can be performed with patients who smoke regarding the potential increased risk of adverse reactions and outcomes following a cosmetic procedure.

To speak with a Double Board Certified Plastic Surgeon about your interest in a cosmetic procedure and if you are a potential smoker, schedule an appointment with Dr. Shienbaum at Brandon Plastic Surgery on our website.

The rise of Plastic Surgery

ASPSPlastic surgery is anticipated to rise in numbers over the next five years. North America and Europe are dominating the world market due to an increase in aesthetic needs to help the quickly aging population. Minimally visive and invasive surgeries are taking the lead to help enhance and slow the aging process.

Dr. Shienbaum of Brandon Plastic Surgery states, “procedures like the Tummy Tuck and Brazilian Butt Lifts have shown substantial growth over the years”. Whether it is from the increase of social media and cause of more self-image awareness or simply because we are able to further prevent aging with medical and technology advances; some are researching.

With social media, we have noticed many, even males are desiring to be more “appealing”. With the rise in Facebook and Instagram with many celebrities, people have the desire to acquire the same traits as their fellow fame and fortune they might be following. Plastic Surgery gives them that option. A quick plump of the lips or a little bit of a rounder buttock, Plastic Surgeons are here to help. “Social media is fueling our growth with aesthetic procedures!”, says double board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Shienbaum.

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) has recently released that invasive procedures related to the buttocks, are witnessing an all-time high of most requested procedures. With so many different surgeons able to perform this minimal surgery ASPS assures you do research on choosing the right plastic surgeon.

To learn more about Dr. Shienbaum’s procedures visit his website, or follow us on Instagram! @brandonplasticsurgery

Plastic Surgeons voice in social media

SelfieSince recent rises over the years in the abundance of social media, self-image is more important than ever. Social media goers are asking Plastic Surgeons to have a voice- by educating them more on the education behind cosmetic procedures rather than celebrities and self-promotion. The hashtag #plasticsurgery has nearly 2,900 hits, only 6 percent from actual Plastic Surgeons.

With the number of “likes” preceding over self-worth more and more are looking to plastic surgery to enhance their social media appearance. Cosmetic procedures are on the rise and researchers are relating it to the relevance of social media. Whether it’s a lip injection for the perfect selfie pout or a hand lift for an engagement ring selfie, plastic surgeons are hitting all-time highs of increased cosmetic surgeries performed. Lip injections reached a high in 2015 when the prominent “duck lips selfie” was popular. Good news for those seeking Lip procedures is you can change the shape of your lips as subtly as you want.

As the consumer is seeking out information in their desired procedures they look to the online interphases. They expect to see their plastic surgeon actively involved in the online community. The younger generations are able to relate respectively to more of an online based advertisement before seeking a consultation. They want to see results before they go in for an initial consultation. As patients are searching online; if cosmetic surgeons have a limited online presence the public considers them outdated.

As research continues the public has a noted huge appetite for the truth of evidence based findings. They want to be able to relate to the named procedure. They want to know more facts, and be educated about if it is really the right procedure for them. They are interested in their patient safety and new research. It can be beneficial to a practice to see the surgeons focused on safety and quality throughout their whole procedure.

Botox- the cure for headaches and wrinkles and more?

BotoxBotox injections is FDA approved currently for overactive bladders, chronic migraine headaches, repetitive neck spasms, spastic arm muscles, and more.

Most of these above have to do with muscles. Botox is botulinum toxin type A- Botox functions by stopping muscle contraction by blocking signals at the neuromuscular junction.

What does all this have to do with you? Since the FDA approval of the use of Botox in treating chronic migraines users have {literally} raised eyebrows due to it not being used to treat only muscles anymore.

Botox is now being said to improve your mood- by fighting depression. Everyday expressions of fear, sadness, anger, are all by the corrugator muscle. By injecting Botox into the corrugator muscle or glabella region you can suppress these emotions. When a person is depressed, the corrugator muscle activates. When you quiet the muscle, you quiet the emotions. Studies have been performed as far out as 6 months with a 45-60 percent range of calmed muscles and lower depression rates.

Although using Botox to treat depression is still consider an off-label use, Allergan the company that manufactures Botox is currently in Phase II trials on the effectiveness in the treatment of Botox for depression. We may not know for a while whether Botox can help our current mood, but in the process Botox is approved for the reduction in facial wrinkles and migraines. Hopefully we can find this as a breakthrough discovery as currently over 20 million people suffer from major depression.

In the meantime, visit Dr. Shienbaum to receive Botox injections and fight off aging and migraines! Contact us at (813) 681-5709 or visit our website for more information.