Last updated 4 hours 44 minutes ago
As the skin ages, it can lose much of its elasticity and firmness, resulting in the development of fine lines and wrinkles. These changes, in combination with the effects of sun exposure, can contribute to a tired look in the eyes and face. Many men and women who are burdened with a low or sagging brow wish to rejuvenate their appearance to allow their inner youthfulness and vitality to show through. For these patients, Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery Center is proud to offer the endoscopic brow lift procedure to restore a youthful appearance to the brow and forehead.
In the past, brow lift procedures were performed using long, open incisions that stretched from ear to ear. These incisions often left an unappealing scar that could only be adequately hidden by the hairline. Now, with recent developments in surgical knowledge and technology, brow lift procedures can now be performed through incisions that are only centimeters wide.
The main difference between the traditional procedure and the new endoscopic brow lift is the use of state-of-the-art endoscopes and smaller, more precise surgical instruments.Endoscopes are long, flexible tubes that have a video camera and a light at one end.These cameras can be inserted into a very tiny incision, and they allow the surgeon full visualization of the surgical area, thereby eliminating the need for larger incisions. Unlike the traditional method, patients who decide to undergo an endoscopic brow lift do not need to sacrifice any hair-bearing scalp.
The endoscopic brow lift is an excellent option for men and women who are interested in rejuvenating their facial appearance. With this new technique, patients also often experience a shortened recovery time. If you have any questions about this advanced surgical approach, call the staff of Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery Center today at (925) 297-4614.
Last updated 7 days ago
What is it that keeps you from walking in this world with confidence?
A patient of mine started crying during a follow up appointment for her recent facelift. Her face looked beautiful, refreshed, rejuvenated and natural, so I asked her what was wrong. She said she was emotional because she had spent years feeling that her outer appearance looked old and tired, and did not reflect the vibrant woman she is. She is now being treated like an attractive woman again; like the woman she is on the inside. The change was empowering and uplifting.
Another patient had a similar reaction after her rhinoplasty (nose job). She said she had spent years worrying about her nose. She had been teased as a teenager about the hump on her nose and remained self-conscious about it as an adult. After the rhinoplasty, her self-consciousness about her nose no longer got in the way of her relationships with others. She is no longer talking to people and wondering, "what are they thinking about the defect on my nose." She feels free.
Yet another patient responded in almost the same way. "After my tummy tuck and liposuction, I feel like I have myself back." It was not someone being vain or superficial. It was about the feeling of being able to return to the person that she was before... having her pre-pregnancy body back and just feeling comfortable in her own skin again. She was so comfortable, she sent me a photo of herself in a bikini with a thank you note!
I recently asked a female plastic surgeon friend of mine who lives in Florida to inject a deep crater beneath my right eye with Restalane and a new filler not yet on the market. When the eye socket depression that has been with me 21 years (since my accident) literally vanished, I too cried. I always thought about the depression when being photographed and felt self-conscious about my appearance. A Surgeon mentor of mine once wrote a recommendation for me as a plastic surgeon saying, "she is a really talented surgeon who you would be lucky to work with, but she has some terrible scars on her face after a horrible car accident." It is not about trying to attain physical perfection, but about simply getting back to the "me" that existed before my accident. I am more free today to walk in the world as an healthy, vibrant woman, not self-conscious about a physical flaw on my face.
The stories go on and on… it is why I LOVE my job. These are all excellent examples of reasons to choose plastic surgery. It should be a decision that improves your state of being and your confidence. It should not be a choice to impress someone or to please someone else. It is why taking the time to have a thorough consultation with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon is so important. We adhere to the strictest standards and I have the courage to tell you what you need to hear, not just what you want to hear.
Please take five minutes to think about this question, "What keeps you from walking with confidence in the world?" The answer can be physical and/or mental.
Think about your past and future. Be true and honest with yourself and take a hard look at those factors that are missing in your life or are causing you to feel self-conscious.
a. Physical: Are there any physical characteristics that are holding you back from being totally comfortable in your skin?
b. Emotional: What are you doing to moderate stress in your life and how can you bring your life into better balance (I have to really work on this one)?
c. Spiritual: Are you taking the time to properly develop your spiritual well-being with God or a Higher Power, your church, temple, friends, and charities?
Take the time to write a page about it. Then, make an action plan for your body, mind and soul.
As always, I welcome the opportunity to consult with you on the variety of ways my practice can assist you with the issues that have been preventing you from walking in this world with confidence. Let's meet and work on ways we can get your groove back!
From Dr. Barbara Persons
Last updated 15 days ago
Dermal fillers can eliminate or reduce the appearance of deep lines and wrinkles in the face, fill out lips, plump cheeks, and generally make a person look significantly younger. Unlike Botox and similar injections which paralyze muscles in the face, dermal fillers do not restrict motion or expression. There are several types of dermal fillers that your plastic surgeon can administer:
Synthetic fillers, like Artefill, are generally made of microbeads suspended in bovine collagen. Non-absorbent synthetic fillers tend to have the longest-lasting results and are considered permanent solutions. Absorbable synthetics, like Radiesse, are considered semi-permanent, with effects lasting approximately one to two years.
Natural fillers are a good solution for people with sensitive skin or allergies, as these fillers are less likely to cause a reaction. Collagen fillers, like bovine and porcine, usually last about two to six months before absorbing back into the body. Hyaluronic acid, like collagen, forms naturally in the body, and fillers made of the substance tend to last about six months to a year. Some brand names for natural fillers include Zyderm, Juvederm, and Restylane.
You may have also heard of treatments which extract fat or collagen from your own body for use as a filler. These are not FDA regulated, so speak to your plastic surgeon if you think this might be a good option for you. While results are not long-lasting, you avoid the risk of an allergic reaction by choosing this filler method.
Your plastic surgeon can help you determine which dermal filler is right for your needs and sensitivities. Whichever option you choose, dermal fillers can help you look much younger without surgery. If you are interested in learning more, contact Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery Center today by calling (925) 297-4614!
Last updated 17 days ago
Dr. Persons has had the opportunity to work closely with some of the world's authorities in Plastic Surgery. She was an Adult Craniofacial Fellow in 2006 under Marcus Walkinshaw, MD, FACS; and a Breast Aesthetic Fellow under John B. McCraw, MD FACS in 2006.
Dr. Persons is also certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
If you are considering any plastic surgery or have any questions, please contact Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery Center. Call us today at (925) 297-4614 to learn more about our cosmetic procedures, as well as information about Dr. Persons and her dedication to her work.
Last updated 22 days ago
Aging has many effects on your physical appearance. Many women and men become self-conscious due to facial wrinkles or fat deposits and sagging skin around the body. If you are suffering from low self-esteem due to any of these issues, plastic surgery or cosmetic injectables can help you. To learn more, check out the resources below. To schedule a consultation in the Bay Area, contact Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery Center by calling (925) 297-4614!
- The American Society of Plastic Surgeons offers information about enhancing your appearance and confidence through brachioplasty.
- Determine whether you are a candidate for brachioplasty in this article by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
- Learn about the different types of dermal filler in this HowStuffWorks.com article.
- The Los Angeles Times offers pros and cons for each type of dermal filler.
- The American Academy of Dermatology breaks down information regarding how long the effects of dermal fillers last.
