Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha - Albany Plastic Surgeon

Since I have readers from every state (and even many other countries), every so often I try to recommend a plastic surgeon from another region whom I can vouch for. For those of you in the Albany, New York area, I give my highest recommendation to Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha. I did most of my residency training with Dr. Kayastha, and if I can describe him in one word it would be integrity. He is a thorough, meticulous, honest, and talented plastic surgeon who performs the entire spectrum of plastic surgery, including hand surgery, cosmetic surgery, and reconstructive surgery. He may not be me (ha ha), but he is a damn fine surgeon.

Visit his website at www.kplasticsurgery.com.

Let him know I sent you!

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

Alexa Ray Joel - Rhinoplasty

Alexa Ray Joel, daughter of Billy Joel and Christie Brinkley, has admitted to People magazine that she's had a rhinoplasty (nose job). According to the New York Daily News,

"I was thinking about getting this for years," the 24-year-old singer told People magazine. "[It's] always bothered me a little bit. I was self-conscious of pictures taken from the side." She said she underwent rhinoplasty earlier this month.

The only photos I've seen are from the front, not the side. From the front she looks a bit straighter, but otherwise the same. It sounds like she had a bump on her nose that she wanted removed, one of my favorite things to do.

Her father is one of my favorite singers. Piano Man, Scenes from an Italian Restaurant, River of Dreams, Rosalinda's Eyes, Vienna, Say Goodbye to Hollywood, etc. etc. He rocks. Awesome concert performer too. I would give my left leg for a private concert with Billy.

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

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Lady Gaga - Poker Face or Plastic Surgery Face?

Rumors have been circulating recently that Lady Gaga is considering plastic surgery. A source has been quoted as saying:

"She's desperately unhappy but keeps talking about having thousands of dollars worth of plastic surgery. She really thinks that could fix everything."

This has led to a slew of blogs claiming that Ms. Gaga is planning to go under the plastic surgeon's knife. Not so, says someone in the know:

A spokesperson for the Poker Face star told the news provider he was "categorically denying" the reports, describing them as "ridiculous and untrue".

So, we've established that she is not planning plastic surgery now, but has she had it in the past? A rhinoplasty perhaps? My Magic Eight Ball Says: Signs Point To Yes.

I really like her music. Let's Dance is great, as is Poker Face and that GAGARARARA Bad Romance song. Her videos are really strange though...yet I can't not watch them when they are on.

Thanks for reading.

Michigan-based Plastic Surgeon

Anthony Youn, M.D.:

ASAPS Annual Meeting 2010

I just returned from the annual meeting for the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery in Washington, D.C. It was an excellent meeting, attended by a "who's who" in aesthetic plastic surgery. Some interesting topics covered in the first few days:
1. Biofilms as a cause of capsular contracture - the bane of my existence as a breast augmentation surgeon is capsular contracture, or excess scar tissue that can build up around a breast implant. This can make the breast look round, hard, and painful. One potential cause is biofilm, or a coating of bacteria that can cover an implant. Techniques to limit biofilms were addressed, including the interesting Keller Funnel. If there is any way to reduce the amount of capsular contracture, I'm all for it.
2. Acellular Dermal Matrices (ADM) in breast revision surgery - We are now using several different types of radiated skin (from cadavers, pigs, etc.) as a way to prevent breast implants from bottoming out, moving into the armpit, or creating a una-boob (symmastia). My good friend Dr. Brad Bengtson gave two great talks on using these ADM's for preventing capsular contracture.
3. Laser Liposuction - Does laser liposuction really tighten the skin? Depends on who you talk to. There really wasn't a consensus on whether it visibly tightens skin, but there was a consensus on the need for more scientific studies to see if it does.
4. Lipodissolve injections actually work? One study sponsored by ASAPS/ASERF appeared to show a visible decrease in the thickness of fat in people injected with substances typically used for lipodissolve. There were no major adverse events, although the changes were subtle and the treatments did entail dozens of injections over several weeks/months. Another study didn't show any significant changes in their patients. So the jury is still out on that one.
5. I did a small talk on the eMatrix for International Hot Topics in Plastic Surgery. This is one of the newest fractional skin treatments I demo'd on the Rachael Ray Show.

There were more great topics than I can cover in a blog post. The meeting is actually still going on! I left early because I missed my family and have surgery to do tomorrow. It's always nice to sleep in my own bed next to my beautiful wife!

Thanks to everyone on the ASAPS meeting planning team for putting on a great meeting.

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

Spanish Plastic Surgeons Perform First Full Face Transplant

Plastic surgeons in Spain have recently performed the first full face transplant on a farmer who had most of his face destroyed by a gunshot wound. The surgery took 22 hours and employed a team of over 30 doctors, nurses, and technicians.

According to an article:

The technique involved removing what was left of the man's face and giving him a replacement "in one piece." By the means of plastic reconstructive surgery and microsurgery of blood vessels.
, the doctors transplanted the entire face apart from the tongue and eyeballs onto the man.
The unnamed farmer now boasts of a brand new face from his hairline down. The only one scar he has runs across his neck, which looks like a wrinkle.
"The operation was carried out by a multidisciplinary team led by Dr Joan Pere Barret, performing the transplant of the entire facial skin and muscles, nose, lips, maxilla, palate, all teeth, cheekbones, and the mandible by means of plastic surgery and micro-neurovascular reconstructive surgery techniques."
Experts took care to ensure that the patient's new face resembled the one he had before the accident and did not have any likeness to that of the anonymous donor.
According to Barret, his new face will be reminiscent of both.

Amazing stuff. It's stories like this that make me proud to be a plastic surgeon. I am humbled by the skill of plastic surgeons like Dr. Barret and all of the surgeons who have contributed to the advancement of our specialty, both reconstructive and cosmetic.

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

The King of Kong is a...Plastic Surgeon???

Funny story from amednews: The newest King of Donkey Kong is a plastic surgeon! Dr. Hank Chien, a plastic surgeon from New York, scored over 1 million points in 2.5 hours on Feb 27th. According to the article:

In September 2008, about a year after watching the documentary, Dr. Chien sought out an arcade that carried the game. He said he figured his skills in the operating room could translate to a video game environment, and he believed he could master Donkey Kong...
A clinical study published in the February 2007 Archives of Surgery found a direct correlation between gaming and proficiency in laparoscopic surgery. Researchers said surgeons who played video games at least three hours a week in their past were 27% faster than were nongamers and had 37% fewer errors...
On the fateful morning of Feb. 26, Dr. Chien woke up to find New York City buried in several inches of snow. His office called to say his surgeries had been canceled...
He completed his game in the early hours of Feb. 27. Dr. Chien announced his victory on Facebook and was surprised at the number of people who were still awake and read his message. The flood of e-mails and calls started coming, and his life as an international celebrity in the gaming world began...
Dr. Chien's life once consisted of plastic surgery during the day and Donkey Kong at night. Now his spare time is eaten up with interviews and autographs.

I have heard of surgeons buying video games and writing them off on their taxes. I'd like to poke fun at Dr. Chien for spending so much time playing a video game, but then again, who am I to talk? I spend time writing a blog on celebrity plastic surgery.

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

Did Haylie Duff Have a Breast Augmentation?

The latest issue of Star Magazine (and this photo from Hollywoodtuna.com) shows what appears to be a dramatic size increase in Haylie Duff's breasts. They look like they're about to explode out of her shirt. Has she had a recent breast augmentation or did she stuff two grapefruits into her bra?

I would bet on the breast augmentation. Give her some time and they should settle down nicely, unless she went to Europe and got the 'gummy bear' implants. Then she may be stuck with what she has.

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

Sharon Osbourne's Breast Implants Destined To Be Ozzy's Paperweights??

In a recent interview on the Today show, Sharon Osbourne stated that she plans to have her breast implants removed this summer and then plans to give them to her husband Ozzy to use as paperweights! According to nydailynews.com:

"They're better on his desk than on my chest," she said. "They're awful!"

Even for a plastic surgeon who does this surgery nearly every day, I find that pretty gross. I once removed breast implants from a patient who asked me if she could take the explanted implants home with her. When I asked her why, she replied that she planned to mail them to her ex-husband!

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

Kate Hudson Had A Breast Augmentation?

There are reports that Kate Hudson has had a conservative breast augmentation. Recent photos show her with larger breasts (likely going from a AA to a nice B). This is in contrast to her previous comments at the 2002 Golden Globes: "I have small breasts, obviously... It's nice to be able to wear a plunging neckline and have it be elegant."

It looks like her surgon did a nice job. The surgery was probably performed at least a month ago since she doesn't appear to have much swelling. This is in stark contrast to Heidi Montag who looks like she could float all the way to Sri Lanka.

I wish she would.

Photo credit: usmagazine.com

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

Is Heidi Montag Trying To Become a Human Barbie?

How do Heidi Montag and Barbie's measurements compare? Is Heidi trying to become a real life Barbie doll? Check out lemondrop.com to find out.

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

Blog Reader's Experience with Juvederm Ultra

One of our faithful blog readers, Rosina from Middle Ageless, has posted a photo essay on her recent experience with Juvederm Ultra injections into her cheeks and nasolabial folds (groove extending from the side of the nose to the corner of the mouth). You can see her nice improvement here. She has a fairly typical result from a conservative amount of filler injected. I wonder how many vials were used? Most people with fairly prominent nasolabial folds need at least 2 vials to get optimal results.

If you haven't checked out her Middle Ageless blog, make sure to visit. It has a great combination of beauty, plastic surgery, and fashion secrets. You can check it out here.

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

National Television Show Looking For Plastic Surgery Enthusiasts Age 18-28

A national television program has asked me to help them locate anyone age 18-28 who is obsessed with plastic surgery and has multiple procedures at this young age. They produce a docu-style program which explores the double-life that some people lead. According to the producers:

We will treat your story with the utmost sensitivity, compassion, dignity and respect... We want to explore how you cope and how you untangle the web of your double life. With the help of a qualified, highly-credentialed, on-camera therapist, our hope is for you to jump start a dialogue about the issues you confront on a daily basis. Family members or friends may take part in your transformation.

If you are interested in sharing your story and you fit the above description, email me at miplasticsurgeon@yahoo.com and I will forward your info along to the producers.

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

Demi Moore Comes Clean About Plastic Surgery... Kind Of

In an interview with Elle Magazine, Demi Moore has finally confirmed the rumors that she's had plastic surgery. The 47 year old actress stated that she had work done, but only to her body. She also admitted to body image issues, and would not rule out more plastic surgery in the future. According to nydailynews.com:

"I've had something done but it's not my face," says the mother of three... However, Moore did reveal that she wouldn't be opposed to having plastic surgery in the future.
"You know what? Maybe one day I'll go under the knife," she admits. "It just irritates me that people are constantly saying how much I've spent on plastic surgery."

"I had an extreme obsession with my body," she says. "I made it a measure of my own value. I tried to dominate it, which I did, and I changed it multiple times over."

It's nice to hear her finally revealing that her body is not 100% plastic surgery-free. I never believed the audacious rumors that she'd had $3 million worth of plastic surgery, nor did I believe her frequent denials of going under the knife. I wish that the reporter from Elle would have asked her why she felt it necessary to deny having plastic surgery for all those years. Good for you to finally embrace it, Demi! Now admit to having work done on your face and we'll all be happy!

For my previous posts on Demi Moore and her plastic surgery denials, click here.
Photo credit: prphotos.com

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

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Heidi Montag Had Her Back Scooped?

I've been asked by several media outlets what Heidi Montag meant by having her 'back scooped.' While the media outlets are swirling around what type of unusual new plastic surgery this might be, I have a pretty disappointing but accurate definition: liposuction of the back of her hips.

This area, also known as the love handle, can be very effectively liposuctioned, creating a 'scoop' or concave effect. It's one of my favorite areas to liposuction since it can create such a nice contour that most women (and men) really like. Plus, the risk of unevenness in this area is pretty low, especially compared to the abdomen, which can get lumpy very quickly (just ask Tara Reid).

Yes, I scoop backs all the time. Sorry, Heidi, you're not special in this regard.

For a great MSNBC article on "back scooping", click here.

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

FDA Warns Spas Against Fat-Melting Claims of Lipodissolve

Is Lipodissolve or mesotherapy safe? The FDA has recently issued a warning to six medical spas for making false or misleading statements that their fat melting injections are safe and effective, despite the fact that they've never been appropriately studied or approved by the FDA for this purpose. According to the US News and World Report:

Lipodissolve involves injecting small amounts of soy lecithin and bile salt directly into problem areas on the hips, waist, thighs, and buttocks, which supposedly melts away fat. The injections became wildly popular three years ago with spas opening up around the country and with doctors in every specialty—from pediatricians to dermatologists —taking weekend seminars to learn the procedure before opening fat-dissolving clinics.

Fat melting injections became popular a few years ago, but have since lost a lot of their hype. To date, no wide-scale scientific study has validated its safety or effectiveness, although some smaller case studies have shown some effectiveness with the injection of certain drugs to melt fat. The problem is that the majority of physicians who perform these fat-melting injections have the drugs made in a compounding pharmacy to whatever concoction they believe might work. There is no standardization, like in most other medications we take. In my area (metro Detroit) I don't know of a single reputable plastic surgeon who performs these treatments. Most of the doctors who perform these treatments are what I consider 'fringe' practitioners. I have seen patients who have lost fat from mesotherapy, however, so I do believe there is some validity to these treatments. They just need to be standardized and studied to make sure they are safe, effective, and at least somewhat predictable.

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

Heidi Montag Can't Jog?

In a recent interview with Ryan Seacrest, Heidi Montag has admitted that she can't jog due to the size of her breasts, since they are now an "E" or "F" size. She also revealed that her surgery was recorded for possible airing on a future reality show.

To Heidi: So, you can't jog?

Duh! Your implants are huge! Most insurances require 500 grams for a breast reduction to improve back and neck pain. Your implants are 700 cc, almost the biggest size they make. Of course you can't jog!

Why do we still care about her?

Photo credit: huffingtonpost.com

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

A Plastic Surgeon on Michael Jackson, Dr. Conrad Murray, and Regulatory Reform

There is a very interesting article in the Huffington Post written by a board-certified plastic surgeon who shared a surgical suite with the late Michael Jackson's plastic surgeon. In it, he explains his thoughts on why Michael may have died (which appear to be refuted by the autopsy findings) and the responsibility that physicians and the lack of true health care reform share in contributing to his unfortunate death. While you may or may not agree with some of his opinions, it's definitely an interesting read. You can check it out here.

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

Raquel Welch - No Plastic Surgery?

Raquel Welch was recently on the Oprah show making some pretty amazing claims. She denied going under the plastic surgeon's knife and instead attributed her youthful appearance to Yoga, a perfect diet, and three hours of makeup in the morning.

What do you think? I think she's a liar.

My opinion:
Her forehead hardly moves, likely frozen by a good amount of Botox or Dysport. Her brows are nicely elevated, possibly from a browlift. She shows none of the excess skin and puffiness of a 69 year old woman. I believe she's also undergone an upper and lower blepharoplasty. Her cheeks and lips are full, likely from a filler like fat grafting. Her neckline is way too sharp for a person her age who hasn't had a facelift. Finally, her nose looks overly chiseled, likely from at least one reduction rhinoplasty. If her looks are solely due to Yoga, diet, and makeup, then I'm one of Tiger Woods' mistresses.

Photo / story credit: twominutenews.com

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

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Thank you and The End - APRIL FOOLS

I've been writing this blog for nearly four years now, and have had a blast doing it. I truly appreciate the thousands and thousands of readers who have left comments and regularly read my ramblings. Unfortunately, I've been threatened with a lawsuit from Carrot Top who took offense at my opinion on his appearance. For that reason (and others) I've decided to end my blog.

Starting today.

April 1st.

Gotcha :) (Yes, this was an April Fools Joke. You didn't think you'd get rid of me this easily, did you?)

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

Who's Getting Breast Implants? And the Portrait 3D by Axis Three

Last night I was featured in a segment on the local NBC affiliate Channel 4 WDIV in a segment titled Who's Getting Breast Implants? In the segment we meet a patient of mine and you can even see how we've been using the Portrait 3D by Axis Three to help the patients decide what size breast implant to use. To view the streaming video, click here.

Thanks to Sarah Mayberry and Dr. Frank McGeorge for a great segment.

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

Beauty Junkies:

I've been reading this very interesting book by Alex Kuczynski, called Beauty Junkies: Inside our $15 Billion Obsession with Cosmetic Surgery. I'm about halfway through, and have really enjoyed it so far. The writer is a 30-something woman who explores the past, present, and future of cosmetic plastic surgery. So far she has followed a woman on a surgical safari in Africa, chronicled the history of plastic surgery from World War I to today, explored the boom in non-plastic surgeons performing plastic surgery with its sometimes terrifying results, and detailed how the definition of beauty may (or may not) have changed over hundreds of years.

It's a fascinating read for anyone interested in plastic surgery and beauty in general. And no, I'm not one of the many esteemed plastic surgeons quoted in the book.

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

Botox Gel and Internal Bras? The Future of Plastic Surgery

For all of you who are wondering what the future of plastic surgery has in store, there is a very interesting article on Aol.com written by Lan Nguyen which addresses it. Be on the lookout for Botox gel, nonsurgical fat reduction with ultrasound waves, injecting your own platelet-rich fibrin into your face, and a bra implanted inside your breast. These four products/procedures could dramatically change the field of plastic surgery if proven effective. There are several big-name plastic surgeons quoted in the article, along with little old me.

One big thing that should be added to this article: Stem cells. The future of both medicine and plastic surgery.

Check out the article here.

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

Three Stars At 35... How Do They Look?

AOL's Styleline recently included my comments in an article about how three stars look at age 35. Who do you think is aging most gracefully? Kate? Fergie? Eva? See my comments, and the comments of a personal trainer and an image expert here.

Personally, I think Eva looks the best, no question. Her skin is pristine, and she shows almost no typical aging signs that most people exhibit in their third decade of life (crow's feet, facial volume loss, sun damage). It's probably because she hasn't birthed eight children, married a tool like Jon Gosselin, experimented with Meth, or peed her pants on stage.

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

Mackenzie Phillips - $50K of injectables and laser treatments

Mackenzie Phillips has recently admitted to undergoing $50,000 of facial fillers, Botox, laser treatments, hair extensions, and dental work. As you can see by the photos, she does look better and not too plastic. But, does she look $50,000 better?

Although I believe Botox is a very good bang for the buck, she may have been better off spending at least some of that $50,000 on actual surgery IF she was looking for a more dramatic result. A nice lower facelift would look great on her, and cost anywhere between $7000-10,000. However, for those people who don't want surgery, then this is about what you can get: A nice, but temporary improvement.

Story/photo credit: huffingtonpost.com

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

Cynosure Smart Lipo

I went to a fascinating preceptorship/educational course on Cynosure Smart Lipo today, taught by my former residency program director Dr. Steven Ringler. There were 20 other plastic surgeons in attendance from all parts of Southeastern Michigan. Dr. Ringler performed laser-assisted liposuction with the Smart Lipo MPX machine on two patients, and it went very well.

The hottest thing in liposuction surgery right now is laser liposuction. It seems every laser company is coming out with their own laser liposuction machine. The big question is: Are there real benefits of laser liposuction over traditional tumescent liposuction? Proponents will claim that laser liposuction results in less downtime and more skin retraction (tightening). Is that really true? Also, is it safe?

With the recent publicized laser liposuction disaster by an ER doc just a few miles from me, I've been very focused on the safety of laser liposuction. The threat of burns from the laser should be foremost in every plastic surgeon's mind. One thing that I'm really impressed with is the safety mechanism that Cynosure has built into its newest Smart Lipo devices. It would be extremely difficult to burn patients with this machine, and the disaster I mentioned above was with laser liposuction by a different company's device.

One thing is for sure: laser liposuction is hot right now, and will be around for at least the foreseeable future.


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

10 Stars Under 40 Who've Had Way Too Much Plastic Surgery

The Frisky has a post on 10 stars under 40 who've had way too much plastic surgery. #1 is, you guessed it, that annoying frozen faced Heidi Montag. She really does look pretty freaky. I don't agree with everyone on the list, such as Megan Fox (gorgeous!) or Ashlee Simpson (does anyone think she looked better before her nose job?).

Is there anyone you would add to the list?

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

Do You Want to Be on TV?

A national television program has asked me to help them locate someone who may fit any of the following criteria:
- Have you had plastic surgery to look like a particular celebrity?
- Have you had botched buttock implant surgery?
- Have you had botched chin or cheek implant surgery?

- Have you had too much plastic surgery and are interested in a make-Under?

If you fit any of the above criteria and would like to appear on national TV to tell your story, feel free to email me at miplasticsurgeon@yahoo.com.


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

VH1 News Presents: Plastic Surgery Obsession

Premiering this Sunday, March 21st at 10pm ET/PT on VH1 is a new one hour special called Plastic Surgery Obsession. From their website:

VH1 NEWS provides an in-depth look at the new "face" of plastic surgery - featuring fresh interviews with doctors, celebs and pop culture experts.
Some highlights:
Cutting Edge: What are the some of the ever evolving industry's newest procedures and secrets?
Younger Faces: The increase in teen plastic surgery: How young is too young?
The Dark Side: Body Dismorphia, depression, and sometimes even death are just a few of the horrifying dangers involved in looking "amazing."
Plastic Surgery Disasters: Some of Tinseltown's most infamous cosmetic surgery calamities

The VH1 crew was kind enough to include me as one of their doctors (or should I be categorized as a pop culture expert... or both?). Should be a fun show! Set your DVRs!
For more information, click here.

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

Julie Bowen - Breast Implants?

Has Modern Family's Julie Bowen had a breast augmentation? By the look of this photo, it appears definitely possible. I remember once reading a magazine article that mentioned her as one of the relatively few Hollywood starlets with smallish breasts. They don't look so small here. If she has implants, they do fit her body well and are not excessively large.

I really like Julie Bowen. I thought she was amazing in Ed. In fact, Ed is probably my favorite show of all time. I was really bummed out when that fine show went off the air a few years ago. There just aren't many funny, feel-good shows like that still around. I miss Ed. I hate hate hate detective dramas!

My favorite TV shows of all time:
1. Ed
2. Seinfeld
3. Lost
4. Survivor
5. The Rachael Ray Show and Dr. 90210 (for obvious reasons)

To view streaming video of a local NBC segment I did on 3D breast augmentation imaging, click here.

Photo credit: hollywoodtuna.com

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

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Dr. Richard Hainer - Rochester, Michigan Plastic Surgeon

Every so often I post on a plastic surgeon whom I know and can vouch for. In the past, I've posted on such surgeons as Dr. Terry Higgins and Dr. Steven Svehlak, both great friends of mine and fantastic plastic surgeons. Dr. Richard Hainer is also a part of that group.

When I arrived back to Michigan from L.A., Dr. Hainer was one of the only plastic surgeons who welcomed me to the area. Even with the competitive cosmetic surgery climate he took it upon himself to offer me whatever assistance he could provide. I have come to know him as a fine surgeon and a good friend. In fact, we often exchange information on the latest techniques in plastic surgery and how we can improve our surgical results. One surgery which he described to me is the Hybrid Breast Lift/Reduction, which combines traditional U.S. techniques with European techniques for a nicer breast shape. I've found that this technique has significantly improved my own breast lift results. Unlike myself, he also performs reconstructive breast surgery, labiaplasty, and hand surgery, all with an eye for detail and achieving optimal results. I don't vouch for a lot of surgeons, but Dr. Hainer is one I do vouch for. His office is located in Rochester Hills, Michigan, just a handful of miles from mine.

For his website click here, for his blog click here.

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

Plastic Surgical Procedures Down 17% in 2009 Due to Recession

According to a survey released by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, plastic surgery operations were down 17% last year due to the recession. Nonsurgical cosmetic procedures, like Botox, increased by 0.6%, with a total of 10 million surgical and nonsurgical procedures performed last year. For the third year in a row, breast augmentation was the most common plastic surgery performed, with over 300,000 pairs of breasts enhanced last year. Botox injections were the most common nonsurgical procedure, with over 2.5 million Botox treatments performed last year.

These numbers are not surprising to me. Last year was definitely a tough one on plastic surgeons' wallets (although no one should cry for us!!), as most plastic surgeons saw a considerable decline in their practice revenues. This was most apparent in areas like my part of the country, where the crashing U.S. auto industry sent shock waves through the region with hundreds of thousands of auto-related jobs lost. This year has begun much better than last, however, so I bet this downward trend will be reversed next year. I'm pleasantly surprised at how many people still want plastic surgery in this economy!

For more ASAPS stats, click here.




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

"Caulk" Butt Enhancements Hospitalize Six in New Jersey

According to an article on CBS News.com, six New Jersey women were recently hospitalized after receiving buttock injections with silicone used to caulk bathtubs. These treatments were apparently performed by "unlicensed providers."

Seriously?!?!?!?!

A tip for anyone considering injections into your buttocks: Do not allow anyone to inject anything except your own fat into your behind. Anything else is likely to either not work or cause some major problems (think of turning your buttocks into a big vat of cottage cheese). If you do have someone inject fat into your buttocks, make sure the surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Photo credit: CBS News

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

Sandra Bullock - Congrats!

I enjoyed watching the Oscars last night. Best Actress winner Sandra Bullock looked great. I thought her performance in The Blind Side was excellent. Great movie. Great acceptance speech too.

My brother was once an extra on one of her early movies While You Were Sleeping. He had the pleasure of briefly meeting her and said she was very friendly and down-to-earth. It's great to see such a nice person win.

I don't think Sandra's had any plastic surgery.

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

Instant Dimples - The Newest Fad Surgery?

There is an interesting article on MSNBC.com that focuses on a fringe plastic surgery procedure: dimple creation. Yes, there is a surgery to create dimples, and it works pretty well. Contrary to popular belief, it's not a new procedure, as plastic surgeons have been performing it for years. According to the article, the procedure costs between $2000-$5000. A quote from a doctor I know well:

Dr. Ellenbogen, who says he’s been performing dimple-plasties for 30 years, says it’s not a particularly common request.
“I get maybe four requests a year and three of the four I talk out if it because they’re doing it for the wrong reason,” he says.

The procedure basically entails making an incision through the inside of the cheek (in the mouth) and using a suture to connect the skin with a deep muscle in the cheek. This creates scar tissue which will cause the skin to indent when smiling, hence creating a dimple. I've had a few requests for this procedure over the years, but it really is pretty darn uncommon.

I was never really big into dimples until my daughter was born with one.

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

An Internal Bra for Breast Lifts?

Physicians overseas have begun using various types of internal bras to help with breast lift surgery. One of the most frustrating things about performing a breast lift is that no matter how high a surgeon may lift a breast, gravity always takes hold and eventually causes that breast to droop once again. Because the only thing that keeps a lifted breast from drooping is the quality of the skin and breast tissue, it's inevitable that every lifted breast will gradually sag with time, especially if implants are involved.

Knowing this, plastic surgeons in Europe and South Africa are working on implantable internal bras to help prevent breasts from sagging after breast lifts. The devices are similar to the mesh used to prevent hernias from recurring, and basically act as a hammock for the breast. These products do have some merit, in my opinion, but unfortunately it's going to be quite some time before we see them in the States.

For more information, check out the following article from the NY Daily News.

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

Dr. Youn on Fox 2 Detroit This Morning

I had the pleasure of doing The Doctor Is In segment on the local Detroit Fox affiliate this morning. It was a fun experience, and definitely different from all my other television segments. During the hour I spent in the studio I answered many email questions from viewers, stopping several times to do on-air interviews. I must admit that at times I wasn't sure whether to look at the camera or go back to answering email questions! Above is the long segment interview at the end of the program. Take a peek at the before-and-after of my patient and her unfortunate story...

Thanks to Deena Centofanti and everyone at Fox 2 Detroit for their hospitality.

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

Megan Fox - Nose Job?

Has Megan Fox had plastic surgery? We'd like to think that beauty like hers is so amazing that it must be at least somewhat artificial! The photos above are of Megan Fox today and from high school (courtesy of Gather.com). Some allege that she's had a nose job. I'd have to agree. Her nose appears to now be a bit thinner, likely from a very well-performed rhinoplasty.

One thing I realized during my time as a Beverly Hills plastic surgeon is that more actors and actresses than we realize have had a rhinoplasty. Julia Roberts? Michelle Pfeiffer? Ryan Seacrest? Yup. Think so.

Rhinoplasty or not, Megan Fox is stunning.

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

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Octomom's Lips - Another Reason to Avoid Permanent Lip Implants

This terrible photo is of the Octomom on her way to the taping of the View. As you can see, her upper lip looks very strange. In fact, it looks quite a bit like Lisa Rinna's upper lip. Did they do the same thing to their lips?

To me, this is a clear cut case of either silicone injections or permament implants to the lips. When they are injected on either side of the center part of the lip, they can create a look like this, otherwise known as a "whistle deformity." People with cleft lips can also develop a similar appearance.

I hope this is the last time we ever see this woman again, although she does attract attention... in a train wreck type of way.

Photo credit: socialite life

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

Human Lab - Facelift

The Rachael Ray Show has a very fun and interesting segment airing Friday, Feb 26th called Human Lab: Facelift. In this segment three viewers will test three different products which claim to create a natural facelift. See how these products change (or don't change) their appearance! And check out my expert commentary!

For a teaser streaming online, click here.

Thank you to the Rachael Ray Show for inviting me to be their expert for this segment.

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

Awake Tummy Tuck? Scary...

Should you consider having your tummy tuck awake? According to an article by The Plastic Surgery Channel a physician in San Antonio, TX is advertising an awake tummy tuck. No general anesthesia is used, just a light sedation and local anesthetics. In fact, you can make conversation with the doctor while she's cutting open your abdomen! The article mentions that she's not a real plastic surgeon, but trained in Family and Emergency Medicine. Scary!

I perform an average of one tummy tuck a week, and I wouldn't wish an awake tummy tuck on my worst enemy. While local anesthetics can work for smaller procedures, to perform a complete tummy tuck under local anesthetics is crazy. General anesthesia is meant to save people from experiencing the excruciating pain of having your body cut open.

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

Jane Fonda Admits to Plastic Surgery

Ten years after saying she would not have plastic surgery, Jane Fonda has given in to the aging process and gone under a plastic surgeon's knife. In her blog she admits:

I just had some ‘work’ done on my chin and neck and had the bags taken away from under my eyes so I decided it would be good to get a new hair cut so people will think it’s my new hair.” He thought that was so funny he actually toasted me for doing what he said he’d never heard anyone do before: admit they’d had work done. I was planning on blogging about it anyway so who cares? I’m writing a book about aging so I couldn’t very well NOT talk about it.

It’s been 2 weeks. I was in front of the camera all day yesterday and was photographed at Eve Ensler’s luncheon 9 days after the procedure so, obviously, it went well. I swore in 2000 I’d never have anything done again but this year I got tired of not looking like how I feel and I wanted a more refined chin line like I used to have so I changed my mind. I’m still a little swollen but not much and what pleases me is that I won’t looked pulled or weird…or tired all the time. And my crows feet are still alive and well. I wish I’d been brave enough to not do anything but, instead, I chose to be a somewhat more glamorous grandma.

It sounds like she had a facelift and a lower blepharoplasty. From the looks of the photos on her blog I'd have to say her surgeon did a very nice job. She looks youthful, but not pulled or tight. The right wrinkles are gone, leaving ones that should remain. She deserves kudos for admitting she's had plastic surgery and, unlike some dishonest celebs, not attributing it to just sunblock, good diet, and moisturizers.

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

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Angelina Jolie - Strange Wrinkles, Plastic Surgery, or Gills?

We normal people would like to think that Angelina Jolie has SOME type of flaw like the rest of us. Well, it appears that she does. No, she doesn't have big feet, cankles, or even the dreaded Man Hands. It appears, from this photo from Us Magazine, that Angelina has... weird lines on her neck! Are they from plastic surgery, abnormal anatomy, or remnants of our evolutionary amphibian ancestors?

This is a tough one. The only plastic surgery that I believe could create wrinkles like this is a mini-facelift, which I really doubt she's had. There are no muscle bands in that part of the neck that go in that direction. Therefore, I would have to argue that she probably has some type of abnormal anatomy there. Not as interesting as accusing her of a facelift, but the truth is the truth. At least she has some type of flaw, not matter how minor. One of my flaws is that I have a bit of a gummy smile.

Did any of you catch me on the CBS Early Show this morning?

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

Hayden Panettiere - Breast Implants?

I was recently asked by the National Enquirer to look at some photos of Heroes star Hayden Panettiere. Does she have new breast implants? I think so! Her breasts do appear to have gone from an A to a C. She has also changed her hair color, from blond to dark red. Is the hair color change an attempt to draw attention away from her breasts? Maybe!

I really like her. I've been a loyal fan of Heroes since it began airing (I was a comic geek in middle school). This season, however, stunk. I had no interest in any of the characters, yet somehow I kept watching it. Too bad Lost is in its last season. There's going to be a huge, gaping hole in June.

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

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Madonna - Chin Implant?

Madonna's recent appearance in Brazil has sparked rumors she may have had a recent chin augmentation. As you can see by the photo her chin does look a bit prominent, and maybe even swollen from recent surgery. Why would she have this procedure done? I never thought her chin was small in the first place!

Chin implants are placed via small incisions either inside the mouth (my preferred technique) or under the chin. When inserted through the mouth there is no visible scar afterwards. I often see people who come in asking for a rhinoplasty to reduce the size of their nose when the real problem is a tiny chin. A small chin can actually make the nose look bigger than it really is. Just a quick lesson on facial harmony...

Photo credit: stuff.co.nz

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

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My latest Rachael Ray Segment Streaming Online

The Rachael Ray Show website has uploaded streaming video of a portion of my latest appearance, entitled "Secrets Your Plastic Surgeon Doesn't Want You To Know." In case you missed it, you can find the end of the segment here.

Thank you to Rachael Ray and everyone at the show for all your hospitality.

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

FDA Clears Laser to Treat Stretch Marks

The FDA has recently cleared a fractional laser for treating stretch marks. In clinical studies the Lux1540 produced an average of 51-75% reduction in stretch marks. This is the first fractional laser that I know of which has been cleared to treat stretch marks.

I find it extremely rare to see stretch marks after breast augmentation such as in Kate Beckinsale's photo here. In the past five years I think I've seen maybe three of my patients who've developed stretch marks after breast implants. Surprisingly, all three patients did not have large implants placed. All the implants were around 350cc. In these situations we've utilized a pulse-dye laser with pretty good results. It usually takes several treatments though. Unfortunately, there is no way to completely erase stretch marks without actually cutting them out (and trading them for a scar).

Link to story source: http://www.americanhealthandbeauty.com/articles/?article=2557

Photo source: celebritysmackblog.com

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

Dr. Youn on the Rachael Ray Show Wednesday, Feb 10th!

For all of you who are snowed in tomorrow I will be a featured guest on the Rachael Ray Show Wednesday, Feb 10th. I'm revealing the "Secrets Your Plastic Surgeon Doesn't Want You to Know." Should be a lot of fun!

Check out the teaser on their website here.

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

Shelby Township, Michigan Laser Liposuction Disaster

This is a photo of a patient who underwent laser liposuction by an ER physician just down the street from me. This is from a sad but very interesting article by the Macomb Daily which exposes what happened to this poor woman at a Shelby Township, Michigan med spa. Check out the article here.

From the article:

The 46-year-old Clinton Township woman said the amalgamation of damaged skin tissue that stretches from her waist to the top of her ribcage resulted from a liposuction-gone-bad performed by Dr. C------ M-- at A---- Medical Spa in Shelby Township.

According to his Web site, M--, a D.O., is certified by the American Board of Phlebology (physicians specializing in venous disease), American Board of Osteopathic Emergency Medicine, American Society of Cosmetic Breast Surgery and American Board of Anti-Aging Medicine. In court documents, he says he is also certified in "tumescent liposuction" and "contour thread lift."

I am not a member of any of these groups.

The Macomb Daily also published an article on how independent surgery centers are not regulated by the state. Check it out here.

To view my guide on selecting a plastic surgeon, click here.

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

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Jenni J-WOWW of Jersey Shore and Plastic Surgery

Jenni J-WOWW from the cast of MTV's Jersey Shore has come forward admitting she's had a breast augmentation. In an interview with Life and Style magazine she admitted to getting breast implants at the age of 21, and is really happy with them. Apparently her costar Snooki is thinking of getting her breasts lifted.

Jenni's breasts look pretty good in this photo. They appear to fit her body well and are not overdone. Her surgeon did a nice job. But what kind of name is J-WOWW??

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

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