Pampered Pooch
by KT Leeson

Recent advances in cosmetic surgery translate into a wider variety of choices for everyone. Time seems to be a big factor in recent improvements and innovations. People want results quickly, and want to recover quickly as well. The latest technologies in cosmetic surgery seem to address this need for speed, and have done so lightning fast.

Even with healthy eating and daily exercise, some bodies need a little extra help. For years, traditional liposuction has helped patients address areas of their bodies that don’t seem to respond to weight loss efforts.
Liposuction works by inserting a cannula, or hollow tube, beneath the skin to vacuum out isolated areas of fat. Although many are pleased with the ultimate results, traditional liposuction can cause significant tissue trauma, and can leave patients with bruising and swelling. Recovery time is three weeks or more, and in some cases, patients experience sagging or dimpled skin where the cannula was inserted.
Laser-assisted liposuction takes things to the next level by melting fat in the body before it’s removed. Seems pretty hi-tech, and it is. Lasers can actually be fine-tuned to direct their energy beneath the skin. Once fat cells are liquefied, they’re removed via tiny incisions and a small-size cannula. Patients see results immediately and the procedure results in little or no bruising, less swelling, and quicker recovery time. This minimally-invasive procedure is gaining in popularity, and it’s easy to see why.

The Next Generation of Fillers
Dermal fillers are a favorite among those who favor minimally-invasive methods to improve their appearance. Fillers that utilize hyaluronic acid, like Restylane®, may top out the filler list as the most popular and widely administered. Hyaluronic acid is a natural component of the skin, helping it stay elastic and supple.
Those keeping an eye on the latest in face-saving procedures may have heard of Juvederm™, which labels itself a “next-generation” smooth consistency gel filler. Juvederm is used to smooth out wrinkles and folds in the skin, including nasolabial folds, sometimes referred to as the “parentheses” running from the nose to the mouth.
Juvederm is injected underneath the skin, temporarily lifting and adding volume to treatment areas. It differs from other fillers because it uses cross-linked hyaluronic acid in a smooth gel form, which may last longer than other hyaluronic acid-based fillers. Procedures take about 15 minutes, and the recovery period should be no more than 24 hours. Results last up to 6 months.

Skin Resurfacing, Refined
Laser skin resurfacing can correct a lifetime of skin sins. Active FX™ is the newest laser resurfacing treatment available, and is ideal for those who want bigger results in less time. Active FX works on the face fractionally, treating one isolated area, then moving on to another small area.
About 80 percent of the skin’s surface is treated during an Active FX session, compared to only 20 percent when a similar method like Fraxel is used. What this means is that a patient might only need one single treatment, as opposed to several. This translates into a speedier recovery and the opportunity to get back to your normal routine more quickly.
After treatment, patients can expect redness similar to a sunburn. Treated skin areas should begin to flake off within a couple of days, and can be managed with gentle washing and moisturizing. Pinkness should dissipate in about a week. Since collagen growth is stimulated during the procedure, patients might look even better 3 to 5 months after the procedure.

Thermage
One of the newest skin-sculpting treatments forgoes the laser and scalpel, and instead uses the body’s own collagen to improve skin’s appearance. Thermage®, a non-invasive skin-tightening procedure uses radio waves to smooth, tighten, and contour skin.
Thermage works by using radiofrequency energy to heat collagen beneath the skin, which helps collagen build and tighten. Not only does skin tighten during a Thermage procedure, its appearance will continue to improve for three to six months after treatment. Thermage stimulates the body’s natural healing process, which in turn produces more natural collagen. Results from Thermage may last up to two years, and is a good option for those seeking a less invasive way to look youthful and refreshed.

Choosing a Surgeon
The American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS) recommends that you choose your surgeon with care. Check for important credentials like medical license, certifications, as well as society memberships. Ask the surgeon how many procedures like the one you’re seeking has he or she performed, as well as how often they perform them.
The AACS also advises looking at before and after photos, which may give you some indication of a surgeon’s skill and ability. But keep in mind that the photos cannot guarantee your results. Referrals from friends are usually a good bet. They can give you insight that websites and pamphlets cannot.
Perhaps the most essential thing to consider when choosing a surgeon or practitioner is your own comfort level. Does the doctor and staff make you feel at ease? Do they allow you to ask questions and express your concerns? The AACS also cautions prospective clients to watch out for certain “red flags,” including doctors who don’t listen to you or those that want to rush you into surgery. Also beware of doctors who are open to performing several surgeries at once. Although it might seem to be saving you money, your body could pay by requiring more recovery time.