Annina from Big Brother UK

This is a photo of Annina, a participant in television program Big Brother in the UK. As you can see, her breast implants are excessively large, and her skin even looks a bit mottled in her breasts and chest. Sometimes skin that is this color can signify poor blood supply to the tissues and can increase her risk for implant and skin-related problems. My advice to her would be to downsize her breast implants, have a breast lift, and avoid smoking and tanning.

Or she could just leave well enough alone.

Photo credit

For an even more shocking photo on Awful Plastic Surgery, click here.

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Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

Carrot Top, Vegas, and Meetings

I've just returned from the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery annual conference in Las Vegas. It was held at Mandalay Bay, and was chock full of the newest in the field of cosmetic plastic surgery. I'll post some of the 'hottest' and 'newest' trends in a future post.

I had the pleasure of spending some time with two plastic surgeons whom I went to residency with, Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha and Dr. Terry Higgins. Dr. Kayastha practices outside Albany, New York, and Dr. Higgins (who has been mentioned on this site once before) practices in Vegas. Both are outstanding surgeons, and if you live in their area they would definitely be the people to see!

In between attending meetings and seminars, I did spot one celebrity dining at the table next to us Monday night: Carrot Top. He was there with a couple friends and kept to himself. Wow, is he striking. That red fro combined with muscles galore makes him a sight to behold!

Photo credit: prphotos.com

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Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

A Little Botox for Paula?

For all of you American Idol watchers out there, this photo of Paula Abdul from Dlisted.com does appear to show some Botox working well to prevent wrinkles between her eyebrows (the glabella). It looks like she's trying to grimace but can't. This is exactly what Botox (or Dysport) can do to prevent the "11" sign between the eyebrows.

Go Adam Lambert!

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Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

Daryl Hannah - Plastic Surgery?

MakeMeHeal.com has a post on Daryl Hannah's possible plastic surgery. She looks puffy and completely unlike herself. What a shame. Unless she used permanent fillers like Artefill (bad) or Silicone (worse), most of the changes should get better with time. I've always considered her to be very attractive, especially when she starred in one of my all-time favorite movies Roxanne.

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Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

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Miss California Carrie Prejean's Breast Implants

Miss California, Carrie Prejean, supposedly had her breast implants paid for by the Miss California USA pagaent. This is according to Shanna Moakler, co-executive director of Miss California USA.

In an interview with "Access Hollywood," Billy Bush asked Moakler, "Did you guys pay for it?"
"Yes," Moakler responded. "We did."
"It was something that we all spoke about together," Moakler said referring to herself, Prejean and Keith Lewis, Moakler's co-executive director. "It was an option and she wanted it. And we supported that decision."

Moakler, a former Miss USA herself, defended the organization's decision to pay for the implants, telling "Access" that it's a common practice in beauty competitions.
"Breast implants in pageants is not a rarity. It's definitely not taboo. It's very common. Breast implants today among young women today is very common. I don't personally have them, but you know — they are," she said.

The above photo appears to show a pair of breast implants which create a round look in someone with little breast tissue to cover them. They are very tasteful in size, though.

Source

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Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

FDA Approves Botox Competitor Dysport / Reloxin!

BIG news in the plastic surgery field. The FDA approved the drug Dysport (otherwise known as Reloxin) today for the treatment of fine lines in the glabella (between the brows). This is the first bona-fide competitor to Botox, as it is also a Botulinum Toxin Type A.

I've mentioned Reloxin in this blog before, as well as on the Rachael Ray show a couple months ago. Plastic surgeons (and patients) hope that this can act as an economic bailout for the 4 million Americans who pay several hundreds of dollars for each Botox treatment. I think we would all welcome a price war between Allergan (makers of Botox) and Medicis (makers of Dysport).

How does Dysport compare to Botox? Other than the fact that they are both Botulinum Toxin Type A, it's difficult to tell. However, if Dysport is priced competitively with Botox and has similar efficacy, we may see a multi-billion dollar product reaching your plastic surgeons' offices in the next 30-60 days. Stay tuned!

Source: Globe Newswire

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Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

Saline or Silicone Gel? The Results May Surprise You...

A recent survey published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal shows what the current preferences are for breast augmentation surgery. According to a survey of 1746 board-certified plastic surgeons and members of the ASAPS:

- Sixty percent of surgeons are still using saline implants, and the vast majority of them are using them 75-100% of the time.

- The majority of surgeons (64%) preferred an incision near the breast crease, while 25% preferred an incision around the bottom half of the areola.
- The average implant size reported by 81% of surgeons was 300 to 400 cc (which is approximately a small to a full "C" cup bra).
- Smooth implants, rather than implants with a textured surface, were most often preferred by 92% of respondents because it was the surgeon's preference, less wrinkling, or overall better results for the patient.
- Ninety-six percent of surgeons used round, rather than anatomically-shaped, implants.
- The most common position for implant placement was under the muscle (62% of surgeons).

With the exception of the majority use of saline implants, these statistics reflect what I see in my practice. I estimate that I use saline implants only 25% of the time, since most patients seem to prefer gel. I utilize three incisions (underneath the breast, around the areola, and the armpit), with the most common being underneath the breast. My average size implant is probably 350-375cc, and I usually use smooth round implants placed under the muscle. I find that these choices usually minimize any complications and revisions.

To view a breast augmentation I performed on Fox News, click here.

Statistics source

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Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

Does Sharon Stone Have Breast Implants?

This photo from The Blemish.com shows what appears to be Sharon Stone's breast implants. She looks like she's lost a lot of weight, revealing the round edges of breast implants that may be positioned below the muscle (hence the space between them). It's possible she may also have a capsular contracture, or excess scar tissue that can accumulate around the implants, causing them to look round and hard. Sometimes the scar tissue can be really thick, other times it can be just a Sliver!

I think her face looks great, though!

Thanks for reading.
Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

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Seven Plastic Surgery Tips to Survive the Recession

With the recession as bad as it is (I'm hearing that some plastic surgery practices are down 80%!), I thought I'd think up some ways my readers can still have their plastic surgery... but on a budget. Here are my Seven Plastic Surgery Tips to Survive the Recession:

7. Try Saline Implants Instead of Silicone Gel - Although not as natural-looking or feeling, saline breast implants are still nice implants, and may have a lower complication rate. They can also save you a cool grand in implant costs.

6. One Cream to Rule Them All - If you could only use one anti-aging cream for your face, it should be Retin-A. Not only does it improve acne, but it also smooths wrinkles, exfoliates, thickens collagen, and clears blemishes. And it costs less than a hundred bucks for a big tube. Do not use if you're pregnant, though.

5. Try Sculptra instead of conventional fillers - Although not FDA-approved for general cosmetic use yet, many surgeons are using Sculptra off-label to fill in hollowness under the eyes and overall gauntness. Unlike traditional fillers which last only 6-12 months, it can last 3-5 years.

4. Opt for Regular Lipo Over Ultrasonic or Laser Lipo - I recently returned my VASER machine since I didn't see a significant improvement over traditional liposuction in my patients, therefore not justifying the higher price tag.

3. Try Chemical Peels Instead of Lasers - A good TCA peel (like the Blue Peel) is comparable to laser treatments, but carries a much smaller pricetag. Whereas a laser can cost $150,000 to purchase, what are the costs for the supplies of a generic TCA peel? A couple bucks.

2. A Little Botox Goes a Long Way - Many patients are saving money on Botox by using a smaller amount and spreading it out over multiple areas. Instead of injecting 20 units in the forehead, they may have 10 units in the forehead and 10 units in the frown lines.

1. Let Your Insurance Pay For It - Do not take this wrong. Health insurance will not pay for your breast augmentation, tummy tuck, or facelift, BUT it might pay for your upper eyelid lift if you can prove the excess skin of your eyelids severely disturbs your vision. It may also pay for your breast reduction, if your breasts are massive and create severe pain.

If anyone has any other suggestions on how to save money and still have plastic surgery, please comment!

Thanks for reading.
Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

Susan Boyle Gets Her Brows Waxed

Britain's Got Talent and YouTube star Susan Boyle has gotten her bushy eyebrows waxed. They look sooooo much better than before. If you haven't seen her absolutely fantastic performance on YouTube, you can check it out here. She has an amazing voice. I'd buy one of her CDs!

Photo credit: Pacific Coast News

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Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

Rupert Everett or Wax Figure?

Wow. What has happened to Rupert Everett's face? I really liked him in My Best Friend's Wedding, but it looks like the British actor is now planning to go for even younger roles! His skin is now smooth and wrinkle free, a possible consequence of Botox and chemical peels. I surmise that he's also undergone a facelift and injections of fillers, possibly Sculptra, to soften his cheeks and deep lines. He now looks like a very young Ray Liotta!

Photo credit: Popwatch

Thanks for reading.
Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

Michael Douglas and Plastic Surgery

Michael Douglas continues to look younger than his 64 years. A recent post on Right Celebrity analyzes this.

In my opinion, he's had a good amount of work done. I would count an upper and lower eyelid lift (blepharoplasty) and facelift (maybe more than one) among the surgeries he may have had. Overall he does look pretty natural, especially when compared to some other plasticized male celebrities his age.

One of the keys to avoiding an overly operated, feminized look in male plastic surgery patients is to limit any tightening of the cheek area. Some male celebrities who've had obvious overdone facelifts exhibit a 'sweeping look' to the cheeks, making them look tight and overly pulled in an upward direction. I tend to focus my tightening more on the lower face and neck in men, as this tends to take off the years without making them look like they're in a wind tunnel or a skydiving George H.W. Bush.

Photo credit: prphotos.com

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Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

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A Bra That Firms Your Breasts?? I Doubt It!

Anna Chan from MSNBC.com has recently asked me to analyze the claims of the Victoria's Secret Bust Firming Bra. According to the manufacturer, regular wearing for eight hours a day for four weeks results in an 18% increase in the firmness of the breast. Check out the article here to see what MSNBC.com's writer thought about it after wearing the same bra every day for seven weeks! They also include some of my oh-so-insightful opinions ;)

Thanks for reading.
Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

Quick Links

Here are some links to take up your time:

1. A friend of mine writes an entertaining and humorous blog, Confessions of a PA (Physician's Assistant) student. Check it out if you're interested in the life of a physician's assistant. Click here.

2. A new documentary about plastic surgery, Youth Knows No Pain, will have its world premiere on Tuesday, April 28th at the Walter Reade Theatre in the Lincoln Center in New York City. Filmmaker Mitch McCabe spends two years on the road, visiting doctors, reconstructive surgery experts, and real-American characters who have gone to varying lengths to stay forever young. You may even catch a glimpse of me, although I doubt I made the cut! Click here for tickets.

3. Kim Kardashian has announced that one of the members of the Kardashian family is going to undergo plastic surgery to look "totally different." Click here for details.

Thanks for reading.
Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

Stevie Nicks: Botox Users "Look Like Satan's Children"

Fleetwood Mac's Stevie Nicks has recently admitted to having used Botox and disliking it:

WWD: You said in a recent interview that you were relieved to still look like you. And you do. Is this the result of good work or no work?

S.N.: You mean like plastic surgery? No.
I had Botox and I hated it. For four long months, I looked like a different person. It almost brought down the whole production of the last tour. It was so bad, I would look into the mirror and burst into tears. Botox is becoming the new face of beauty and it’s unfortunate because it makes everybody look like Satan’s children. Everybody has pointed eyebrows. Everybody looks related. All the Desperate Housewives look like sisters.
If you’re an unattractive girl who’s trying to be beautiful with Botox, forget it. If you are a beautiful girl who’s trying to be beautiful with Botox, you will look like you’re angry all the time. You’d have to tie me down to get me to do it again.

In certain cases when people with arched brows have Botox, it can give them an overarched "Botox Brow." This can easily be treated by injecting a few more units above the eyebrow region. Most patients can also avoid this look by injecting less than the usually recommended 17-20 units in the forehead.

Overall I think Stevie is being a bit too harsh. I don't think that Eva Longoria looks like Marcia Cross's sister!

If you'd like to try using the Botox treatment visualizer (upload a photo of yourself and see what you'd look like with Botox), then click here.

Story credit: In Your Face blog
Photo credit: prphotos.com

Thanks for reading.
Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

Update on Donda West's Surgeon

It appears that there is one (possible) final postscript to the tragic death of Kanye West's mom, Donda West after having plastic surgery. Her surgeon, Dr. Jan Adams, has just surrendered his medical license for the State of California. He has recently been given a one year jail term for drunk driving.

Sad story all around. Many physicians carry medical licenses in more than one state, so it's possible that he can still practice as a plastic surgeon in another state, like Florida, even though he surrendered his California medical license. Since I have practiced in both California and Michigan, I carry medical licenses in both states.

Unfortunately, I can think of a couple cosmetic surgeons in my area who should maybe have their license revoked too!

Happy Good Friday!

Source
Photo credit: prphotos.com

Thanks for reading.
Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

Ann Coulter - Breast Implants?

Quick post today, since I've been busy with many, many other things...

Here's a link to Make Me Heal.com's post on Ann Coulter and possible breast implants.

For my previous posts on Ann Coulter, click here and here.

p.s. Yes, I assume the Playboy magazine is photoshopped...

Thanks for reading,
Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

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Kylie Minogue Admits to Botox

Aussie singer Kylie Minogue has admitted to using Botox in the past, but states that she's now "a lot more natural." According to the Mirror:

"I'm definitely not one of those people who says, 'You shouldn't do this.' Everyone individually can do what they want. “I also think it doesn't have the stigma that it had when I was growing up. For all time women have wanted to, for the most part, look their best.
It's just that what we have available to us today is - what it is today. I'm preferring to be a lot more natural these days. I've tried Botox, I've tried all... You're damned if you do and damned if you don't."

I've always thought that she displayed a bit of the Botox brow, like her fellow Aussie Nicole Kidman, however her brows have always been a bit over-arched. Botox or not, she does look great at 40!

For a previous post on Kylie Minogue and Botox, click here.

Photo credit: prphotos.com

Thanks for reading.
Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

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Plastic Surgeon? Cosmetic Surgeon? Phony Doc?

Recently there have been several articles detailing bad events that have occurred at the hands of people who aren't board-certified plastic surgeons. Here are a sampling:

1. A family practice physician who considers himself a specialist in cosmetic surgery and advertises as a plastic surgeon was recently reprimanded by the State Board of Medicine for prescription fraud. He wrote prescriptions for patients and family members, using them to obtain drugs "for his own personal and unauthorized use." Click here for the story.

2. A Bronx mother dies after undergoing silicone injections by a "non-medical, unlicensed person." Click here for story.

3. A Head and Neck surgeon is accused of performing liposuction without a patient's consent. She had planned on having a tummy tuck only, but accuses him of performing a facelift and liposuction too. Click here for story.

The American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons holds its members to strict ethical guidelines which many other "cosmetic"-type societies do not. It's not surprising, then, that most of the crazy plastic surgery-related news comes from physicians who are not certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

Here are two well-written articles by laypeople who focus on the difference between a "Plastic surgeon" and "Cosmetic surgeon."

1. What's the Difference Between a Plastic Surgeon and Cosmetic Surgeon?
2. Cosmetic Surgery Advice-- Consider the Source.

On my website I've written "How to Choose a Plastic Surgeon." Click here for it.

It's not enough for your "cosmetic surgeon" to have just stayed at a Holiday Inn Express last night!

Thanks for reading.

Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

Lauren Conrad - Plastic Surgery?

The Hills star Heidi Montag has received a lot of press about her plastic surgery. What about her friend / enemy Lauren Conrad? Has she had plastic surgery too?

I doubt it. The most common plastic surgeries in a woman her age are breast augmentation, rhinoplasty, and liposuction. Her breasts don't appear augmented, her nose doesn't show signs of previous surgery, and she's too thin to benefit from liposuction. IMHO she's a natural beauty.

And then there's Heidi...

photo credit: prphotos.com

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Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

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Stem Cells - The Future of Breast Augmentation?

Stem cells are now being used for Breast Augmentation overseas. Specifically, the procedure is gaining in popularity in Japan and is being introduced in Great Britain. The procedure involves removing fat from the abdomen (fat is rich in stem cells) and using a machine to concentrate the stem cells prior to injecting it into the breasts. It's estimated that women can achieve a cup size or greater enhancement to their breast size.

What are my thoughts on stem cell breast augmentation?

First of all, it's going to be a long time before the FDA approves any devices designed to concentrate stem cells for cosmetic breast augmentation. With 1 in 9 women developing breast cancer in their lifetime, it is extremely important for physicians to be sure that stem cell breast augmentation does not increase the risk of breast cancer, delay or interfere with the diagnosis of breast cancer, or worsen the prognosis of breast cancer if it is diagnosed.

Second, many physicians are performing fat grafting to the breast, which is the closest thing we currently have to stem cell breast enhancement. The big difference between the two is that generic fat grafting to the breast doesn't have as high a concentration of stem cells, but the stem cells are still present. One of the controversies surrounding fat grafting to the breast revolves around possible mammographic changes that can occur with the surgery. For this reason, I perform fat grafting to the breasts very sparingly, and only when breast implants are not possible. I have been happy with the results in the rare patients whom I perform this on, however.

For now, stem cell breast augmentation is only available for women who are willing to travel overseas. For the rest of Americans, it's Breast Implants or Bust! ;)

Story source: timesonline.uk
Photo credit: prphotos.com
For the ASPS cautionary statement regarding fat grafting to the breast, click here.

Thanks for reading,
Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

A Bra That Prevents Breast Cancer?? No...

There's an interesting segment from Good Morning America which analyzes the Brassage. This is a bra manufactured by Intimate Health which claims (according to the program) to massage away toxins from the breast, thereby preventing and possibly treating disease and infection, and maybe even cancer.

Before you run out and buy this bra, I would caution that there is no science that supports that a bra prevents or treats any illnesses. "Removing toxins" is a pretty popular term nowadays as a catch-all for any whacky or off-the-wall treatment that claims to improve a person's health. Technically, I remove toxins every hour or two when I use the bathroom.

While the GMA broadcast completely discredits the Brassage, I wouldn't be so quick in dismissing it. In fact, I would put it on a pedestal with two other well-known and revolutionary bras: The Bro and The Manzier.

For the GMA broadcast, click here.

Thanks for reading.
Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

Brooke Shields, Latisse, and Make a Wish

Brooke Shields, famed eyebrow specialist Anastasia Soare, and Allergan (makers of eyelash enhancer Latisse) have teamed up to help the Make a Wish Foundation. The Latisse Wishes campaign was begun to help raise money for the Make a Wish Foundation, on the idea that people make a wish when they blow on an eyelash. The company has donated an initial amount of $500,000 to Make a Wish, and plan to donate another $5 for each person who signs up on www.Latisse.com up to a total of $1 million.

So far we are seeing very good results from Latisse. I am currently in the middle of filming a local TV segment where we follow a woman who's using it. So far, five weeks into her treatment, she's noticing a nice enhancement of her eyelashes.

I've never been one to make a wish on an eyelash that falls out. I just hate it when one falls out and sticks to my cheek for several hours.

photo credit: prphotos.com

Thanks for reading.
Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

Plastic Surgery, the Recession, and 2008 Statistics

The statistics for plastic surgery in 2008 are finally in. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, just over 12 million plastic surgery procedures were performed last year, up 3% from 2007. While nonsurgical procedures like Botox (up 8%) and injectable fillers (up 6%) increased to 10.4 million (up 5% overall versus 2007), surgical procedures like breast augmentation (down 12%) and liposuction (down 19%) decreased to 1.7 million (down 9% overall versus 2007). There were over 4.9 million reconstructive procedures performed in 2008, up 3% versus 2007.

We are definitely seeing a trend toward people having less invasive, less expensive procedures performed over the past year, likely as a result of the recession. As plastic surgeons' surgery numbers decline, much of their time is now being spent with a needle, not a knife, and performing more reconstructive procedures. Some surgeons are even trying to resurrect their reconstructive referrals as a way to bring in patients. Here in my state of Michigan, this trend has, unfortunately, been going on for several years.

For the 2008 ASPS statistics, click here.

Thanks for reading.
Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

How Fast Are You Aging?

There is an interesting quiz on Parade.com that you may enjoy. It asks you 21 questions to determine how fast you are aging. The questions range from the obvious (do you smoke?) to the not-so-obvious (did you grow up with a dog?). I scored a 74, which means that I am aging like a Giant Tortoise. Check it out here if you have a few minutes to spare.

Thanks to Cosmetic Makeovers for the link.

Thanks for reading.

Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

Harry Connick, Jr.

Cityrag.com has some photos of Harry Connick, Jr. on a beach. He's exhibiting typical male pattern fat distribution. Many men (and some women) deposit fat intrabdominally when they gain weight. Instead of putting it on the love handles, butt, or thighs these people deposit it inside their abdomen, around their intestines and other organs. Other terms for this are visceral fat or omental fat. It causes men to have potbellies and women to look pregnant when they are not. The only remedy for intra-abdominal fat is diet and exercise. Liposuction and tummy tucks do not remove this fat, unfortunately. It's also known as the fat that puts a person at higher health risk.

I'm a big fan of Harry Connick, Jr. I've been to three of his concerts, have a dozen of his CD's, and have been listening to him since he came out with the When Harry Met Sally CD. He's truly a class act, as evidenced by his actions after Hurricane Katrina, and seems like a genuinely nice guy.

Thanks for reading.
Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

The Doctors Show

Have any of you seen The Doctors? It's a daily syndicated show from the producers of Dr. Phil that covers a wide spectrum of medical issues. One of the four main physicians on the program is Dr. Drew Ordon, a plastic surgeon who seems like a good guy. They cover a number of plastic surgery topics, including many which I've covered on this blog. If you are interested in plastic surgery or medicine in general, check out the show. I TiVo it every day.

Thanks for reading.
Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

Taking Care of "Batwings"

I haven't heard of this term until recently, and I do think the name is pretty stupid, but with the exposure of Michelle Obama's finely toned arms, more and more people are talking about the "Batwing" procedure. "Batwing" is slang for the loose skin of the upper arm that many people get with aging and weight loss. We have two surgeries to treat it: liposuction and brachioplasty. I'm not a big fan of either procedure, since liposuction doesn't tighten up the arm skin and a brachioplasty results in a long scar. Nevertheless, I will often liposuction the upper arms of people who complain about excessive fat there. It can be effective.

Maybe we can come up with a better slang term someday.

To read an interview I did for Truth in Aging.com on treating "batwings," click here.

Photo credit: TruthinAging.com

Thanks for reading.
Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

Rihanna

Rihanna has obviously been in the news a lot lately, regarding her assault and relationship issues. I've been asked by numerous media outlets to comment on her injuries, but there really isn't that much to say. I'm not surprised she looks as good as she does, just weeks after her injuries.

I've seen quite a few people in the Emergency Room over the years who have been assaulted, and quite often their initial appearance is dramatic. During the first few days after major facial injuries the victim can look extremely swollen, bruised, and even unrecognizable. Within 1-2 weeks, however, the majority of the swelling and bruising usually subsides and the person begins to look like their regular self again. Virtually all the bruising and swelling is gone within 3-4 weeks, unless the person suffered actual broken bones, which can necessitate plastic surgery to correct. I bet the next time you see Rihanna without sunglasses she's going to look just like she did before. Hopefully this won't happen to her again.

Photo credit: dlisted.com

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Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

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Celebrity Plastic Surgery Article on GetBack.com

There is an article on Celebrity Plastic Surgery on GetBack.com with an accompanying slideshow of stars who have admitted to having plastic surgery. Check it out here.

Thanks for reading,
Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

Miley Cyrus - Breast Implants?? No...

MakeMeHeal.com has an article addressing whether Miley Cyrus may have undergone a breast augmentation in the recent past. I doubt it.

Although the FDA does not recommend breast implants for anyone under the age of 18, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, nearly 4000 girls under the age of 18 underwent breast augmentation in 2004. While this is a tiny number compared to the nearly 350,000 women who had breast augmentation in 2007, it is still concerning that plastic surgeons are performing these procedures on minors. I do not perform this procedure on anyone under 18 unless they have some type of developmental deformity, and am cautious on performing the procedure on anyone under the age of 22 who does not have parental support... but that's just my opinion.

photo credit: prphotos.com

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Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

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Check out the Rachael Ray Show Tuesday

If you get a chance, check out the Rachael Ray Show Tuesday. They are covering the latest in plastic surgery rumors. You may even see someone you recognize ;)

Here is a link to their website:
http://www.rachaelrayshow.com/?day=2009-03-10

Thanks for reading.
Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

Tummy Tuck and Boob Job Cream?

One of the hottest products today, a skin care company called Rodial is selling Tummy Tuck cream.
Their website makes the following claims:

A REVOLUTIONARY stomach flattening formula with stomach flattening micro fibers helps slim and visibly tighten the abdominal area
- clinically proven to reduce the abdominal area by up to TWO centimetres in 8 weeks
- fig extract and neuropeptides break down fatty cells and boost cell metabolism
- use daily for two months

They also have a Boob Job cream which they claim does the following:

Boob job works with your natural fat cells. As the fat cells move around the body after eating, boob job “blocks” the fat into the area where the product has been applied, so the bust and décolleté areas. You will see a gradual increase in cup size within 56 days as well as gaining an instant lifting and firming effect. Increase in cup size by 8.4%.

The company is based in the U.K. I know of no scientific studies which support their claims, which are pretty extraordinary. If anybody in the audience has used these products, I'd be interested to see what it did (or more likely didn't do) for you. I'm skeptical...to say the least.

To check out their products, click here.
For In Your Face blog's post on it, click here.

Thanks for reading.
Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

David Arquette Has Damage to His Facial Nerve

There are reports that actor David Arquette has undergone removal of a benign bone tumor from his face, resulting in damage to a branch of his facial nerve. Apparently the actor cannot move his eyebrow yet, although it is getting better.

Most nerve injuries like this resolve over several weeks to months. It's unlikely that the nerve injury is permanent. I can't imagine how bad I'd feel if I operated on a famous actor and he ended up with a major motor nerve injury. Talk about stress! At least he's not a major beauty like his wife!

Photo credit: prphotos.com
story credit: http://www.postchronicle.com/news/entertainment/tittletattle/article_212211911.shtml

Thanks for reading
Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

Do You Look Younger If You Gain Weight?

A fascinating study has recently been released that compares the aging characteristics between 186 pairs of identical twins. The study from Case Western Reserve University looks at how various environmental factors can affect how old we look, when genetics is completely taken out of the picture (hence the use of identical twins). Here are some of their findings:

-For those aged 40 and younger, the less the twin weighed, the younger they looked.
-For those aged over 40, the more the twin weighed, the younger they looked.
-The twins who smoked and didn't wear sunscreen looked older than the twins that didn't smoke and did wear sunscreen.
-Those twins that got divorced looked older (by 1.7 years) than those who did not (the divorced twins also looked older than those who stayed single).
-Those who had taken antidepressants looked older than those who did not.

According to an article about this study in Time magazine,
The bottom line is that if you care mostly about a young-looking face, don't smoke, don't spend time in the sun without protection, and try not to get into a bad relationship that will make you depressed. Instead, this summer at the beach, stay inside and have an ice cream. Make it a double scoop.

The fact that the twins (over 40) who weighed more looked younger strengthens the belief that facial volume loss can contribute to aging. The best treatment for this is facial fat grafting.

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Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

Joan Rivers Comments on Plastic Surgery

A recent article contains some of Joan Rivers' comments on plastic surgery. Here is an excerpt:

Her collaboration with Valerie Frankel, titled "Men Are Stupid … And They Like Big Boobs: A Woman's Guide to Beauty Through Plastic Surgery," is "really a serious book, but I wrote it funny, as if I'm talking to you — because I'm funny. … If you want to put a chin in, go to the chapter on chins. If you want to raise your breasts, it will tell you every thing you want to know."To research the guide, which offers helpful information on the gamut of cosmetic surgery options, she and her co-writer interviewed 25 plastic surgeons. "They are so boring, these men," she said... In spite of the title, which she claims is something Marilyn Monroe once said to her, Rivers recommends plastic surgery as "something you should do for yourself.""But society is based on looks," she said. "And anyone that says that's not so, is an idiot. If you think big boobs make you look nice, put them in."Men should have work done too, she said. "I hate a turkey neck on anyone."Always up front about her own plastic surgery, which she began in college with her nose being "thinned, not fixed," Rivers added a postscript to anyone who doesn't think they need it. "If you are happy with the way you look, that's wonderful. How lucky you are."

Boring??? The truth hurts sometimes...

Photo credit: prphotos.com

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Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

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More Details on Usher's Wife Tameka Foster's Plastic Surgery Complications

More details are emerging regarding the complications suffered by Usher's wife Tameka Foster as she underwent liposuction surgery while in Brazil. Apparently her doctor, Brazilian plastic surgeon Dr. Silvio Sterman, planned to perform liposuction on her while she was only two months postpartum. After being placed under general anesthesia she suffered a cardiac arrest and was revived via CPR. She was then placed into a drug-induced coma in order to run tests and make sure she was stabilized. She has now been discharged from the hospital and is said to be "doing very well."

I do not perform any cosmetic surgery on women who are less than 6 months postpartum. There is no scientific studies which determine that 6 months is a mandatory time frame, but I believe the changes that occur in a woman's body (both physical and hormonal) can persist for months after a baby is born. Liposuction just 2 months after giving birth? In my opinion that is too soon.

Source

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Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

Mickey Rourke Admits to Plastic Surgery by Hack Surgeon

According to Monsters and Critics, Oscar-nominated actor Mickey Rourke has admitted to having plastic surgery by a hack plastic surgeon. He reportedly stated,

"Most of it was to mend the mess of my face because of the boxing, but I went to the wrong guy to put my face back together... I had my nose broken twice. I had five operations on my nose and one on a smashed cheekbone... I had to have cartilage taken from my ear to rebuild my nose and a couple of operations to scrape out the cartilage because the scar tissue wasn't healing properly. That was one of the most painful operations, but the worst was hemorrhoids."

It's funny that he admits to having hemorrhoids but doesn't admit having a facelift, which he appears to have had. For my opinions on his previous surgery, click here.

I hope he wins the Oscar tonight. I saw his performance in The Wrestler and think it's amazing. He really deserves it. I'd much rather see him win it instead of that smug Sean Penn.

Photo credit: prphotos.com

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Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

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Cosmetic Surgeon Goes After Joan Rivers to Get Publicity

A general/vascular/cosmetic surgeon in California has just sent out a press release attacking Joan Rivers' guide to plastic surgery. In his press release he states,

"While Joan Rivers certainly has a right to hawk her beliefs about plastic surgery, her book and the half dozen reality shows that focus on plastic surgery undermine the credibility of the beauty enhancement business."

Who is this guy to talk? He's a general and vascular surgeon who practices cosmetic surgery! To me it looks like a blatant attempt to hop on Ms. Rivers' coattails and get a little media coverage. I find Joan's book well-written, humorous, and chock-full of useful information for anyone considering plastic surgery. Maybe he didn't like the chapter where she encourages everyone to seek a surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

Click here for the press release. To purchase a copy of Joan's book, click below.



Disclaimer: I am a contributor to Joan Rivers' book, but do not receive any payment or royalties for the sale of her book.

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Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

Tom Cruise Visits Brazilian Plastic Surgeon?

Page Six of the New York Post is reporting that Tom Cruise visited prominent Brazilian plastic surgeon Dr. Ivo Pitanguy while recently in Rio De Janeiro. He took a side trip to visit Dr. Pitanguy on the doctor's private island which features its own landing strip and exotic animals.

Did Tom have some work done while visiting there? He does look awfully youthful lately, but I bet the most he may have had done is a chemical peel and some minor facial treatments.

Wow. I wish I had a private island...

Photo credit: prphotos.com

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Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

Celebrity Eyebrow Makeovers on MSNBC.com

MSNBC.com has an interesting slideshow in the Top 12 Celebrity Eyebrow Makeovers. Some are huge improvements while others are barely noticeable. You can check it out here.

It reminds me of a photo I show some patients. I once had a woman in her 30's see me in consultation for a browlift. After looking at her for about two seconds I figured out that she didn't need a brow lift, but a brow wax. Fifteen minutes (and twenty dollars) later she looked a heck of a lot better, as her Andy Rooney bushy brows were shaped into nice, defined arches. I saved her about $3500 and she left the office happy and surgery-free!

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Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

CNN on the OctoMom / Angelina Jolie resemblance

CNN's Jeanne Moos reports in this video on the resemblance between the OctoMom and Angelina Jolie. The more I hear about the OctoMom the weirder she seems. Rhinoplasty and Lip augmentation - Looks like it. Botox and blepharoplasty - Maybe.

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Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

Does Michael Jackson Have An MRSA Infection?

Several internet sources are reporting that Michael Jackson may be fighting a severe MRSA infection on the face. These sources state that he is on IV Antibiotics for treatment of this multiple drug-resistant bacteria, and that it may have originated from nasal surgery. Could this be true?

There doesn't appear to be any word from Michael's spokesperson yet, which may be a bad sign. MRSA is a type of Staph aureus bacteria which is often found inside the nose of "carriers." Although usually asymptomatic, in rare cases it can cause severe infections which can even destroy tissue. There are very few drugs which are effective against MRSA, although a handful do exist. The photos of Michael show a very limited amount of the skin of his face (since it is covered by a surgical mask), but the skin that is shown does appear red and possibly inflamed. For his sake, hopefully the rumors are false and he remains in good health. I have never seen a serious MRSA infection of the face (although I have seen it elsewhere), but I can imagine it can be pretty scary.

Source: The Sun

Photo credit: prphotos.com

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Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

Tameka Foster- Usher's Wife - Update on Plastic Surgery Complications

There are a few news stories that are reporting the current status of Usher's wife, Tameka Foster, who had complications while undergoing plastic surgery in Brazil. They all state that she is in stable condition, which is good. Details are still sketchy, but they include a possible cardiac and respiratory arrest during liposuction surgery. The anesthesia has been implicated as a possible cause, and she may have been induced into a coma for 24 hours.

Hopefully she hasn't suffered anoxic brain injury or another very serious complication. This story continues to develop, and I hope she comes out of it ok.

Story links: azcentral.com, stuff.co.nz
Photo credit: prphotos.com

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Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

Dr. Youn on the Rachael Ray Show

Here is a link to a clip of me on the Rachael Ray Show that aired today. Rachael and I discussed some of the newest trends in plastic surgery.
Click here for the clip!

Thank you to everyone at the Rachael Ray Show for inviting me!

Photo credit: prphotos.com

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Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

Usher's Wife - Complications from Plastic Surgery in Brazil

Sources are reporting that Usher's wife, Tameka Foster, has suffered major complications from plastic surgery performed in Brazil. She gave birth only two months ago. A neurosurgeon has been flown from the U.S. to Brazil to help with the situation.

Details are still sketchy, but this case appears to highlight the dangers of having any medical procedure performed in another country. Plastic surgeons certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery adhere to strict education, experience, safety, and ethical standards which just aren't comparable to care given in other countries. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons has issued a cautionary statement to the public regarding 'medical tourism.' Also, your health insurance will probably not cover medical care given in another country and the complications that can ensue.

Why would a neurosurgeon be flown to Brazil for a plastic surgery-related complication? I'll give some of my thoughts in tomorrow's post.

Photo credit: prphotos.com

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Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt

Hollywood tuna has a bunch of photos of Heidi and Spencer doing a photo shoot in the pouring rain. Who does this?They look like complete tools. At least Heidi had some good plastic surgery. Hopefully these two will go away sometime soon.

Click here for my other posts on Heidi Montag's good (and not so good) plastic surgery.

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Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

Octuplets and Plastic Surgery?

Nadya Suleman is the mother of the octuplets who finally surfaced and gave an interview on the Today show. Who does she look like and what plastic surgery do I think she's had?

I think she looks like a combination of Angelina Jolie and Alanis Morissette. Her lips are huge and may be the result of aggressive fat grafting. It's possible that people who have a large amount of fat grafted into their lips find their lips become excessively large when they become pregnant. Their tummy is not the only thing that grows! Her nose may also have had some work done, making it smaller and thinner than it was before. Without any "pre-surgical" photos, it's difficult to say for sure, but I think she's had both a lip augmentation and a rhinoplasty.

Photo credit: msnbc.com

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Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

Christina Hendricks - Does She Have Breast Implants?

I apologize for the recent lack of updates. I have been in and out of town and working on various projects...

Take a look at Mad Men's Christina Hendricks' cleavage. Does it look odd to you? It's quite possible that this look is caused by large breast implants combined with a push-up bra. Her breasts are very close together and don't exhibit the space between them (I call it a sternal gap) that many women have. This is a result of either her natural anatomy or the plastic surgeon making the breast implant pocket too big. When plastic surgeons make the pockets beneath the breast tissue so big that they actually connect with one another it's called symmastia. I have seen a couple instances of symmastia where the breast implants can literally move from one breast to the other. This is extremely uncommon when the implants are placed below the chest muscle, since the muscle is usually in the way.

I've heard that Mad Men is a fantastic show, but I haven't been able to catch it. I'm partial to Lost, Heroes, Survivor, Scrubs, and yes, American Idol.

Photo credit: hollywoodtuna.com

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Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon
Anthony Youn, M.D.:

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