April, 2012 | Dr. Forley

Archive for April, 2012

-HAND REJUVENATION

Monday, April 30th, 2012

An area of the body that often is overlooked in our anti-aging efforts is the hand. Recent attention has been directed to creating a more youthful appearing hand to match the facial rejuvenation treatments more commonly performed. The aging process in the hand is characterized not only by the changes in the appearance of the skin with wrinkling and brown spots but also by the increased visibility of the tendons and blue colored veins. This is the result of the loss of volume on the back of the hand and thinning of the skin. A key component in restoring a youthful appearing hand is the replacement of the volume that has diminished over the course of time. Here we will discuss a few treatment options that can help your hands to look younger: Radiesse®, Sculptra^®Aesthetic, fat grafting, and Fraxel® re:store Dual laser.

Before

After Radiesse®

Radiesse®

Radiesse® is an injectable filler used to thicken the tissue on the back of the hand. It is FDA-approved and consists of calcium-based microspheres suspended in a water-based gel that will immediately restore volume to the hand when injected just below the deep layer of the skin. It also has a collagen stimulating effect that may prolong its usual one-year duration.

Sculptra^®Aesthetic

Sculptra^®Aesthetic is an injectable material composed of poly-L-lactic acid that stimulates the production of collagen in the skin. A very natural appearing restoration of hand volume is produced by the gradual thickening of the skin that occurs over a three-month period. Generally, a series of 2-3 treatments at 6-week intervals are necessary to achieve the desired effect. The results from the treatment can last up to three years at which time maintenance treatments will be necessary.

Fat Grafting

A simple technique of injecting fat under the skin of an aging hand can achieve long-lasting rejuvenation. Your own fat is obtained using liposuction and then specially prepared prior to injecting it under the skin in fine tunnels. Survival of fat depends on it getting a good blood supply and may require several sessions to achieve the desired result. The physical presence of a thin layer of tissue will not only decrease the blue of the dorsal hand veins and the white of the extensor tendons but will also soften the shape of veins and tendons.

Fraxel^® re:store Dual Laser

The new Fraxel^® re:store Dual Laser can be used in addition to volume restoration to improve the surface texture of the skin and lighten brown spots. The new, more superficial Thulium fiber laser (1927 nm) wavelength can better address skin discoloration with minimal discomfort. In addition, the deep penetrating Erbium fiber laser (1550 nm) improves skin quality with collagen remodeling.

Microscopic treatment zones delivered by the Fraxel® re:store Dual laser produce “fractional” zones of heating with every zone surrounded by unaffected skin. This technology enables rapid initial healing with redness and swelling lasting for 2-4 days. There is no visible wound healing but some dryness and flaking will occur during the first week. The treatment regimen consists of 3-5 sessions at about 4 week intervals with beneficial changes continuing to occur for 2 to 3 months after each treatment.

During your consultation, Dr. Forley will discuss which treatment options would be best for you.

Tags: anti-aging, Hand Rejuvenation, injectable fillers, Laser
Posted in Aging, Hands, Lasers, Non-Surgical | No Comments »

HEALING FOODS FOR SURGERY

Monday, April 23rd, 2012

When scheduling surgery, it is important to take into consideration the type of food you should be eating to aid in the healing process. We will discuss food choices for before and after surgery to help speed your recovery.

Before Surgery

It is best to eat high quality proteins such as a fish, poultry, eggs, nuts and seeds a few weeks before surgery to build up your strength and tissue fibers. Consuming high-fiber foods such as whole grains, vegetables, fruits and legumes; calcium-rich foods such as nuts, fruits, and leafy greens and essential fatty acids such as nuts, seeds, or vegetable oils are also helpful.

Certain amino acids seem to help wounds heal faster, so before—and especially after—surgery, make sure your meals and snacks feature fish, chicken, eggs (especially the whites), brown rice, walnuts, almonds, and sunflower seeds. Some studies suggest that vitamin C and zinc can also assist your body to heal. Drinking a glass of orange juice and eating the daily recommended amount of fruit and produce should provide all the vitamin C you need, while a fortified breakfast cereal is an easy way to get zinc.

It is best to avoid dairy products, sweets, fried foods, and cured meats as these are high in saturated fats and can slow the healing process. Your diet should be lighter a few days before surgery; emphasizing fruits, vegetables, and liquids to help ease the stress on your digestive system. Also avoid stimulants such as coffee and alcohol as they can impair the natural healing process of your body.

HEALING FOODS FOR SURGERY

After Surgery

Try and eat small, light, low-fat meals throughout the day when recovering from surgery. This can include foods like whole-wheat toast, yogurt, pudding, fruits, soup, small sandwiches and fortified shakes. If a soft or liquid diet is necessary following surgery, consider protein and/or nutrient powders, broths, fresh juices, light soups, and pureed fruits or vegetables such as carrots, squash, mashed potatoes, bananas, or applesauce.

Eat fresh, healthy foods that are rich in nutrients and trace minerals. Protein is particularly important as it will help build your tissues. A protein-rich multivitamin shake may be a good way to start getting more protein after surgery. Eating fiber can help prevent constipation. Good natural sources include prunes, prune juice, figs, apricots, berries and other fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains.

Aim for eight 8-ounce glasses of fluids a day when recovering from most surgical procedures. This helps prevent dehydration, helps fiber work well, and flushes out the bladder. Drink caffeinated beverages sparingly. Avoid junk food, especially foods that contain processed fats such as hydrogenated oils. Olive oil is an excellent natural way to ease inflammation following surgery.

If you have any questions or thoughts on what to eat before and after surgery, please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Forley.

Tags: Nutrition, Plastic Surgery
Posted in Plastic Surgery | No Comments »