A cleft palate is a birth defect that occurs once in every 750-1000 live births, wherein the roof of the mouth, or palate, doesn’t develop fully, leaving an opening, or cleft, that may extend all the way to the nasal cavity.  While there have been genetic links and environmental factors associated with cleft palates, the specific cause remains unclear.  Such environmental factors include: smoking, drug use and illness by the mother while she is pregnant.

This craniofacial defect impairs speech, jaw alignment, and hearing. The complications aren’t minor. Because a cleft palate can lead to frequent ear infections, a total loss of hearing is a real possibility. Obviously, the location of the cleft affects speech, and many children struggle to speak normally.  These secondary impairments underscore the importance of early intervention.

Even more troubling than these physical obstacles is the heartbreaking fact that the child may face abuse from classmates and even adults or suffer from low self-esteem and depression as they compare themselves with others. The condition affects appearance in varying degrees, but the worst cases demonstrate just how much this birth defect can interfere with a child’s well-being.

Luckily many of the challenges a child with a cleft palate faces can be nearly eliminated through early assessment and age-appropriate surgery.  Doctors recommend surgery for infants ages 12 to 18 months because the tissues affected are in an optimal state and because speech development is not in full-swing yet.

Cosmetic surgery for a child’s cleft palate will not only free him or her of the social stigma associated with the defect, but also surgery will minimize (and possibly eliminate) the hearing, speech, and dental problems that accompany a cleft palate. A good doctor will offer a thorough consultation, address parents’ concerns, and connect with the child so that the experience will be emotionally comfortable for the child and his or her family.
Children are placed under anesthesia during the procedure. The goal of the surgery is to close the open section of the lip by reworking the tissue so that it closes the cleft. The result is closure of the cleft and a lip that looks more natural and functions better. The surgery’s benefits continue to accumulate afterward, with gradual improvement, but sometimes secondary surgeries can accelerate improvements more quickly.

Excellent post-operative care is essential to making sure the cosmetic procedure is successful. Sun protection should be used, pain medication will decrease discomforts, and though shocking at first, a child may have to be restrained from touching the surgical area while it heals. Keeping in mind the long-term benefits to the child, these steps are the loving measures parents and caregivers will need to take to achieve faster recovery.

Prices for the procedure vary. Health insurance will almost always pay for this operation. Without health insurance, people face costs from separate sources. There are doctor’s fees, hospital fees, anesthesia fees, etc. Different doctors will charge different prices so there is no one price for the surgery. The minimum cost of the surgery is usually $5000. Parents who can’t afford the surgery should search for organizations that provide assistance as soon as they are aware their child has a cleft palate.

You can help a child live a normal life by donating to programs like The Smile Train.

Breast reduction surgery, or reduction mammaplasty, is a life changing procedure for women whose breasts are too large and heavy for their frames, whose breasts are uneven in size, and for those whose breasts sag or droop due to age or breastfeeding. In addition to improving self-esteem and improving physical activity, many women seek breast reduction surgery to get relief from neck, shoulder and back pain.

The Mayo Clinic advises women considering breast reduction surgery to discuss all facets of the surgery with several board certified plastic surgeons. The surgeons will assess their candidacy for surgery and determine whether reduction mammaplasty is appropriate for them. Women should ask questions regarding the procedure and post-operative care to establish appropriate expectations.

In fact, obtaining this information prior to the appointment will allow a patient to form more specific questions about the breast reduction. A frank discussion with the surgeon should alleviate fears and provide the patient with a realistic expectation of the outcome. She and her physician will decide together the most beneficial amount of reduction and the best time for her to have it performed.

The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery warns women of child bearing age that mammaplasty may hinder their ability to breast feed. They further warn that pregnancy, childbirth, and breast feeding, if the woman is able to do so after breast reduction surgery, could change the shape of her breasts. They stress discussing future pregnancies with the performing physician.

Reduction mammaplasty is performed under general anesthesia in a surgical facility and may require an overnight stay. If the patient is released the day of the surgery, she must have a ride home and should have a caregiver for at least the first night she is home. Driving is usually prohibited for six weeks.

Recognizing the disabling effects of larger breasts, many insurance policies cover at least a portion of the cost. A diagnosis of female breast hypertrophy with its attendant consequences and disabilities or reconstructive breast surgery which results in breast reduction is usually compensable. Breast reduction for strictly cosmetic reasons is seldom covered.

There are many variables in surgical technique including how the incisions are placed and the maximum amount of reduction advised, so a prospective patient might consult more than one plastic surgeon before making her final decision. Each consultation will be educational and help the woman decide whether or not this procedure will benefit her.

Benefits of reduction mammaplasty range from relief of physical pain formerly associated with the strain and weight of the breasts to finally getting a full night’s rest. The ability to buy lacy or pretty bras for the first time in years delights most patients. Shopping for bras and tops in a regular store instead of by catalog or at larger sized stores makes shopping fun again for most.

A world of activities opens up to women after breast reduction surgery. Some play tennis or racquetball for the first time. Others join a bowling league or gym, no longer embarrassed or hampered by their super-sized breasts. For all, the absence of those extra pounds of breast flesh seems to be a huge relief.

Medically necessary services are generally services that are provided to enhance one’s quality of life, physical or emotional functioning, and promote adequate development throughout the lifespan. These services should be provided only after individualized assessment of each person’s needs by a physician, or otherwise qualified professional, and the least intensive and intrusive services necessary to achieve the desired outcome should be the services that are provided.

With specific regards to plastic surgery, any procedure conducted with the primary intention of improving appearance is generally not considered medically necessary, unless it can be documented that a specific disfigurement is directly impacting the quality of one’s life. Plastic surgery procedures that are conducted to improve functioning that happen to result in improved appearance, however, can be considered medically necessary. For example, if excess scar tissue is impairing movement or causing pain, the removal of this scar tissue can be considered medically necessary to improve functioning, yet will most likely also result in an improvement in appearance. Other surgical procedures that are generally considered medically necessary are the removal of tumors, dermabrasion to improve deep scaring, rhinoplasty to improve a sinus condition, and reconstructive surgery. Breast reductions that are conducted to alleviate back and neck pain should also be covered as medically necessary under most health plans that cover reconstructive surgery.

To ensure that a plastic surgery procedure will be covered as medically necessary, there are several precautionary measures that the consumer can take. First, it is important for the consumer to identify whether his or her insurance coverage falls under state or federal regulations regarding reconstructive surgery. This can be done with a simple phone call to the insurance provider. Once this is done, the consumer can research the legal requirements regarding plastic surgery for their insurance provider. Generally state laws require more coverage than federal laws do, although current legislation being passed through the House and the Senate is intended to legally require all insurance companies to cover reconstructive surgery, and to create a more comprehensive and clear definition of the difference between reconstructive surgery and cosmetic surgery.

To find the legal requirements regarding reconstructive surgery in each state, click here. This website generally discusses breast reconstructive surgery, but the laws outlined here should apply to all types of reconstructive surgery. Once the consumer understands what is covered in his or her insurance policy, then he or she can go to a practitioner who specializes in the specific surgery or procedure. It is important to ensure that the medical professionals evaluating the necessity of the procedure take careful documentation, including pictures when appropriate, to send into the health insurance company for approval. Once all of the necessary documents and medical referral for surgery are sent in to the insurance company, the insurance company will decide whether to approve or deny coverage. If coverage is denied, then the consumer can request a re-evaluation of the case and use documentation of state and federal law along with physician reports to support their request.  If the procedure indeed falls within the terms of coverage and the state and federal laws regarding coverage, then the recommended surgery should be covered.

Studies have concluded that nearly 9% of women are affected by some type of cellulite on their bodies. LipoDissolve is a new alternative treatment and is also referred to as lipolysis, lipostabil, injection lipolysis or mesotherapy. This procedure is for people who are struggling with their weight and is increasing in popularity with many women.

LipoDissolve was first created by physicians in Europe and South America to treat cardiac disease over ten years ago. It has been used as LipoDissolve for the last decade and has quickly proven to be a very effective and patient-friendly procedure. The areas best suited for this treatment are typically all areas located anywhere above the knee, except for the breasts. Very common areas include butts, thighs, abdomen and faces. It is important for every patient to know this is not a miracle drug or weight loss solution. This procedure has been created for people who are at their desired weight, but are having difficulty getting problem areas in shape and cellulite-free.

LipoDissolve is a procedure that involves a number of medicated injections used to melt unwanted small, limited fat areas. A mixture of substances, including enzymes, vitamins and phospatidylcholine is injected into pockets of fat to begin the melting of the fat deposits. After the injections are completed, a machine that performs massages and ultrasound is applied to smooth the area and aid the injected substance in working though the area to ensure even absorption.

Surgery is not required with LipoDissolve procedures. It is performed in a doctor’s office with injected pain reliever that lessens any discomfort that may follow the treatment. There are currently no known side effects and the cost of this procedure is less expensive than traditional liposuction. The cost of LipoDissovle ranges from $375 to $1,500 for each treatment; many times up to six treatments are needed for an area. The extent of the entire procedure will also influence the cost. For example, removal of fat from beneath the eyes or chin costs less than the removal of saddlebags. The amount of medication that is needed during the procedure is also determined on the area that is going to be treated.

Risks and benefits of LipoDissolve

This particular procedure has numerous benefits and very few risks, but the risks still do exist. To this day, the procedure has a positive safety record and no reports of patients having life-threatening or permanent complications. Serious risks may include the interaction with pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes or cancer. In very rare cases, an allergic reaction from the solution may occur. Side effects such as bruising, lumps and skin tenderness may be experienced at the injection site, but are temporary and usually fade within days. The benefits of LipoDissove include: reduction of stubborn baby fat, return of youthful contour, helps clothing to fit better and reduces cellulite.

The popularity of LipoDissovle will continue to increase as people are continually reconsidering extensive cosmetic surgery procedures to reshape their bodies. LipoDissolve is now considered the most powerful solution for removing cellulite on the market today.

Most people get sweaty palms when they have an interview, or see a police car behind them with its siren on. But when the sweat starts to interfere with activities, such as being able to hold onto objects or shake hands without embarrassment, this may be a symptom of hyperhydrosis. Hyperhydrosis is characterized by excessive sweating, more than can be accounted for by simple temperature regulation processes. The condition affects about three percent of the population, and can be a trigger of social phobia; and even though effective treatments exist, over a third of sufferers never consult a physician.

Hyperhydrosis can be classified as either generalized or focal. While generalized hyperhydrosis affects the entire body, and may signal an underlying disorder, focal hyperhydrosis is contained to specific part of the body, and is usually containable. Focal hyperhydrosis is frequently localized to the armpits, palms, feet, and groin. There is no known cause of the focal type, but genetics does seem to play a role, as the condition often runs in families. A UCLA study performed in 2002 reported that 65 percent of sufferers responding to a family history survey had family members with symptoms of the condition. The head researcher, Dr. Samuel S. Ahn, even recommended DNA testing to find and treat more people at risk for the disorder. (1)

Typically, a sufferer will first be given a strong antiperspirant consisting of high concentration of aluminium chloride. The concentration shown to help control hyperhydrosis is about twelve times that of regular antiperspirant, and is often effective within three weeks. A frequent side effect is skin irritation due to the strength of the aluminium chloride. Additionally, if treatment is stopped, excessive sweating will return. Botox (Botulinum toxin type A) has also been shown to be effective temporarily. The medication is injected into the sweat gland to keep it from functioning. (2)

If prescription drugs fail to control excessive sweating, a doctor may recommend surgery. The most common procedure, called endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy (ETS), involves destroying some of the nerves running through the upper chest. The surgery works particularly well for symptoms involving the armpits and palms. In the 1990s, minimally invasive techniques were developed, and now the procedure is normally performed on an outpatient basis. The major drawback with ETS is that once sweating has been reduced in the target area, compensatory sweating may occur in untreated parts of the body. This can result in patients being drenched as the body tries to regulate temperature. To reduce some of these effects, surgeons are trying different treatment locations, such as lower on the thorax, and alternative methods of destroying the nerve chain, like clamps instead of cutting.

By consulting with a physician once excessive sweating is having a continuing negative effect, those experiencing hyperhydrosis may be able to lead lives free from discomfort and embarrassment.

(1) University Of California – Los Angeles (2002, March 6). UCLA Study Finds Evidence That “Sweaty Palms” Syndrome Is Genetic And Underreported. ScienceDaily. Retrieved February 8, 2010, from http://www.sciencedaily.com­ /releases/2002/03/020301071230.htm

(2) Haider, A; Solish N, Canadian Medical Association Journal, (January 2005). “Focal hyperhidrosis: diagnosis and management”. Retrieved February 8, 2010, from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC543948/?tool=pubmed

A chemical peel is one of the many procedures people can have these days to improve the texture of their skin, normally on the face. In this kind of procedure, a solution of chemicals is used to blister the outer layers of the epidermis so that it eventually peels off. For that reason the treatments are sometimes called “chemexfoliation”. After the peel, new skin regenerates that is less wrinkled and much smoother.

What Can Chemical Peels be Used to Treat?
A chemical peel can be used for many different conditions, including some associated with aging. Also, according to WebMD, pre-cancerous keratosis caused by exposure to the sun can be removed with a chemical peel. Often, several treatments may be required over an extended period to correct the condition. Chemical peels can:

· Smooth fine lines and wrinkles
· Eliminate blemishes on the surface of the skin
· Control acne
· Fade mild scars
· Minimize age spots, freckles, and dark areas on the skin
· Improve the overall all tone and texture of the skin

Except for deep chemical peels, a chemical peel can be used on the neck and hands, as well as the face. The best candidates for these procedures are patients with fair skin and light hair.  However, people with dark skin can be treated with chemical peels for certain conditions.

How is the Procedure Done?
This is an outpatient procedure normally performed in a physician’s office or a center that provides minor surgical services. Depending on the type of peel, there may be some special arrangements needed. For deep peels, EKG monitoring, sedation, local anesthetic, or painkillers may be required. Superficial peels generally don’t require any of these measures. After deep chemical peels, antibiotics may be prescribed to safeguard against infection.

The first step in the chemical peel process is cleaning the skin to remove excess oil, while protecting the eyes and hair. Then the peeling agent, a solution of chemicals, is applied for several minutes. The specific solution chosen for the peel will depend upon which specific condition is being treated. Essentially, the chemicals create a controlled wound,causing a burning or stinging sensation.  These sensations dramatically improve once the procedure concludes.

The chemicals generally used for chemical peels are:

· Alphahydroxy acids (AHA) – These are usually used to smooth skin, improve texture, and treat minor acne.

· Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) – TCA is used for wrinkles, surface blemishes, and pigmentation issues.

· Phenol – This is used in the deeper chemical peels and treats coarse wrinkles, gets rid of the pre-cancerous growths, corrects damage caused by the sun and discoloration caused by birth control pills or pregnancy.

Side Effects or Complications of Chemical Peels
There are some minor side effects that some people experience after the peel and there can occasionally be complications. Possible complications include:

· Temporary or permanent skin discoloration may result in some skin types. After a peel, certain conditions may make abnormal skin color more likely, including pregnancy and female contraceptives.

· There is a very slight risk of scarring on some parts of the face.

The side effects that can be expected after a chemical peel include sunburn-like symptoms, redness, and scaling. These usually subside after about one week.

Pediatric corrective surgery is a great option for parents whose children are afflicted with deformities caused by injuries, diseases or birth defects, but there are a number of things to know before surgery begins.

Many congenital disorders are not hereditary or genetic, and it seems most deformities occur in families who have no previous history of these disorders. Therefore, it is important to seek advice from a dysmorphologist: someone who specializes in congenital malformations, particularly those affecting the anatomy.

When looking for a skilled pediatric plastic surgeon, one should try to find a surgeon who has the following training, expertise, certificates and is able to provide these services:

• A Certificate from the American Board of Plastic Surgery
• Be a surgeon who treats children from birth to young adulthood
• At least 50% of his or her time is dedicated to the pediatric care of children
• The core of his or her medical practice is providing pediatric care
• Attended medical school for at least four years
• Three years of general surgery residency training or has completed a training program in general surgery/oral surgery residency, orthopedic surgery, urology, neurosurgery, and/or otolaryngology
• Three years practice and training in the field of plastic surgery
• Experience and training in pediatric plastic surgery

Cosmetic surgery on a child who is deformed or injured will require a specialized surgeon.  This type of surgery can make a great and positive difference in the life of a parent as well as the child.

Locating a Pediatric Plastic Surgeon?

Most of them practice in medical centers and hospitals for children. The child’s pediatrician may be able to provide a couple of recommendations, and it is always beneficial for parents to inquire with other parents through support groups and social networking sites.

Parents should not feel awkward about requesting the doctor’s credentials and references.  Doctors are required to make this information available.  Besides, ensuring doctors are qualified is simple, good common sense.

Additionally, parents are advocates for their children.  Parents need to find a surgeon they trust and with whom they can communicate.  Eliminating disparity and confusion is imperative for creating a positive experience for parents and children alike.

Children cannot always express what is bothering them and are not always capable of answering medical questions. Sometimes they simply lack the vocabulary, but often they are simply too young.  An experienced pediatric plastic surgeon can have reasonable success with communicating with young patients and will likely earn their trust and affection, making the experience far less traumatic.

Here are a few types of ailments a pediatric plastic surgeon can treat with pediatric corrective surgery:

1. Face and Skull Birth Defects such as a cleft lip, cleft palate, and skull deformity
2. Ear Birth Defects such as missing ear and protruding ear
3. Chest and Limb Birth Defects such as webbed fingers and misshapen breasts
4. Injuries on face, head, legs, arms and hands
5. Scars and birthmarks
6. Various types of burns
7. Cosmetic surgery performed on a child for self-image improvement

By taking the time to research doctors and the specific needs of their children, parents and patients can have a much brighter future with pediatric corrective surgery.

Reconstructive surgery patients rebuild their looks and confidence after suffering a devastating accident.

Victims who have suffered from an accident that had disfiguring effects often turn to reconstructive surgery in attempt to regain self-image. In the event of an accident, the person has already suffered great trauma, and the process of attempting to restructure the deformed area can be a difficult process to undergo. The emotional and mental damage, although unseen, can be just as significant as the visible damage.

Also, unlike cosmetic surgery, the choices surrounding surgery, such as who, when, and how a procedure will be performed, do not always exist. Frequently the surgery is done in an emergency situation with little time to make decisions and with little or no patient consent.

Because of the complexity of these procedures, it may be helpful to contact patients who have undergone similar procedures to get advice and support.  Joining web-based support groups such as www.inspire.com is a great start. Not only will such support help the patient cope with the emotional trauma of the accident, but there may be helpful advice regarding surgeons who specialize in their particular surgical needs.

After the wounds have healed prior to reconstructive surgery the patient may be left with obstacles to overcome such as not being able to walk, move certain limbs, or simply not being able to perform daily functions without help. These situations are best addressed under the care of a physical therapist. In physical therapy the patient will have an individualized plan to help them recover to the best of their ability. The therapist will design a plan special tailored to the specific needs of the patient, in some cases the patient may need to relearn to use a body part, or lean how to use an artificial part.

The bodily changes a patient can undergo when dealing with reconstructive can lead to depression. Often times after surgery a patient may experience an onset of postoperative depression or the “blues”. Once the reality of the situation sets in a patient may feel low self-esteem or even angry that they were a victim of these circumstances. In any case, a patient suffering emotionally or socially after reconstructive surgery may benefit from counseling.

The outcome of any reconstructive surgery is never predictable. The recovery time is based upon the difficulty of the surgery and any complications that may occur prior to the surgery. The patient’s anatomy and ability to heal are also factors that will affect recovery. Complications like excessive bleeding, blood clots, infection, bruising, or wounds that are difficult to heal are all issues a patient may face. Although these issue are usually minor, if not treated properly they could become serious.

Eyebrow hair loss can completely alter a person’s appearance, but with an eyebrow transplant procedure, patients can greatly diminish any apparent loss.

The procedure itself is referred to as follicular hair transplantation. Hair follicles are found naturally on all areas of the body except for the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet. In the case of hair transplantation, the follicles are harvested from the back of the patient’s head, as these hair follicles are more resistant to baldness than hair follicles on other areas of the scalp.

Causes of Eyebrow Hair Loss

There are many causes of hair loss in the eyebrow area. Some causes can be controlled, some can not. When it comes to diseases that cause hair loss, Alopecia Areata is the most common. Alopecia Areata comes on without warning, bringing with it patchy hair loss that sometimes resolves on its own and at other times never does. The medical profession is not sure what causes this disease, so they speculate that it could be due to genetics, autoimmune disorders, chemicals in the immune system inhibiting the hair growth, the hair just dying off, or it could possibly be stress related. Thyroid problems can play a big part in hair loss as can Diabetes and Lupus. Not all hair loss comes from diseases. Over plucking, electrolysis, scarring from surgery, burns or accidents and hormonal imbalances can all contribute to eyebrow hair loss.

The Eyebrow Hair Transplant

The procedure itself is designed to implant between 50 and 350 hair follicles, which have been obtained from the back of the scalp, into each eyebrow area. The area on the scalp from which these follicles are removed is called the donor area. Once enough follicles have been removed the area is then sutured. The follicles that have been harvested from the donor area are then cleaned and divided into individual hair grafts. The surgeon’s skill is very important when it comes to eyebrow transplants. The smallest of microscopic incisions must be made in the area to be transplanted in a bid to minimize scarring. Each graft is then meticulously placed to make sure that the proper angle has been achieved. This type of hair transplant is much more difficult than other types, because eyebrow hair grows in different directions and at odd angles; so it is very important that proper placement of each graft be precise. This procedure takes approximately two hours to complete and is done in an out patient setting. The pain from this technique is minimal and normally requires only the use of a mild oral sedative.

What to Expect

Some crusting around the implant sites will occur within two to four days after implant. Between three and five days, any redness or mild inflammation from the procedure will subside. At one week the sutures are removed from the donor site. Surprisingly, the implants will begin to fall out at about two weeks, but will begin to re-grow about 12 weeks later and become permanent. Due to the fact that scalp hair is used, the hair will grow on the eyebrows just as it would on the head; as a result periodic trimmings will be needed to keep the eyebrows looking natural.

Cosmetic surgery is what people turn to when their outer beauty fails to reflect their inner beauty. While cosmetic surgery is surrounded by myths and stigmas, most modern procedures are designed to be natural looking and rejuvenating rather than transforming. Most people undergoing cosmetic surgery do not want to look totally different; they want to look like better versions of themselves.

In other words, for most patients these procedures are all about balancing. It can be hard to feel confident if you’re unhappy with what the world is seeing from the outside. These insecurities are common.  While cosmetic surgery isn’t always the answer, some people find that improving their outer beauty–even in small, subtle ways–makes them feel sexier, more beautiful, more confident and even more accomplished.

We live in a world that puts huge emphasis on physical appearance. How we look significantly impacts the first impression we make on others and also factors largely into how we view ourselves. There’s no shame in wanting to look better, just as there’s no shame in wanting to earn more money or be more intelligent. These are all important personal and social achievements that our world has taught us to value.

Some patients use cosmetic surgery to fight the effects of aging; they don’t want to look like a celebrity, they just want to look like themselves again. Other patients use surgery to enhance features that nature has neglected (like a misshapen nose or weak chin). For some, looking good is an important part of their jobs, and cosmetic surgery is an easy way to meet those expectations. For others, cosmetic surgery can be a new lease on life; a way to hide unsightly scars or to restore features that have been distorted in an unfortunate accident.

Some worry that wanting to change the exterior suggests they’re unhappy with who they are inside. They also worry society will judge them for wanting to change or they’ll be viewed as superficial. Such concerns are worth exploring.  Surgery does affect perception.  The goal is to create a positive change in perception, but there will always be a vocal minority who opposes surgical changes in appearance.

On the other hand, many have no qualms with cosmetic surgery. They view it as an easy way to upgrade their appearance or to get physical features they’ve always admired in others. For them, cosmetic surgery is a well-deserved reward with the added bonus of a confidence boost; it’s the ideal way to make their outer beauty match their inner beauty.