Promoting Plastic Surgery, Party-Style

JAIMY LYNN COHEN, a 48-year-old violinist from Bellmore, patted her hips. “I’ve got these lumps that are happening over here,” she said to Dr. Scott E. Newman, a plastic surgeon. “Is there anything you can do for me?”
The physician invited Ms. Cohen for a consultation in his makeshift office: a table with a mirror on top and platters of Hershey’s Kisses. It was set up in the middle of a bazaar of pampering services at a “Girls Night Out” exposition at a dance studio here.
Without having her undress — he hadn’t brought along a screen, he said — the doctor quickly suggested liposuction as a way for Ms. Cohen to “spot reduce.”
The five-minute consultation was one of about 40 Dr. Newman gave on a recent evening as groups of women perused his album of “before” and “after” photographs while he explained breast augmentation options. Some signed up for free “demonstration” shots of Botox to smooth furrowed brows and injections of Restylane and Perlane to fill in facial lines.
The event, which Dr. Newman sponsored, was billed as an “evening of indulgence” that included wine, chips and dips, and 53 vendors selling purses, baubles and lingerie.
The 200 women who attended, paying $50 to enter, could also choose from a carnival of options. Psychics read their fortunes, a “happiness coach” dispensed advice, skin artists drew temporary henna tattoos, and reflexologists gave foot baths.
In the competitive, lucrative cosmetic surgery market, a few of the Island’s more than 80 cosmetic surgeons are turning to elaborate soirees to beef up their client lists and stand out among the crowd of anti-aging specialists.
“In this day and age, doctors market,” Dr. Newman said.
On the same evening as the Glen Head event, Dr. Stephen T. Greenberg, a Woodbury-based plastic surgeon, hosted a “cosmetic surgery fashion show” at the Carlyle on the Green, a catering facility in Bethpage State Park, using 10 of his recent patients, ages 22 to 51, as models.
The event attracted about 200 people, mostly women, paying $20 apiece; it cost about $12,000. Dr. Greenberg described it as “like a bar mitzvah.” It had an open bar, a disc jockey and performers on stilts during cocktail hour. The dinner buffet included carving, pasta and dim sum stations.
The goal was to create “a fun night, an educational night” that “demystifies” cosmetic surgery, Dr. Greenberg said. In front of the audience, he asked a 28-year-old patient named Jennifer, who later identified herself as his front desk manager and would not disclose her last name, what had bothered her about her breasts and whether the procedure she had undergone to enlarge them had been painful. Meanwhile, Leeana Karlson, co-host of Dr. Greenberg’s show on KJOY radio, 98.3 FM, showed the crowd silicone gel implants like those the surgeon had used.
Dr. Alan H. Gold, a Great Neck-based plastic surgeon and president of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, said such events “have moved plastic surgery from an art and science to entertainment.”
“It is certainly not the norm of what we would consider appropriate promotion of a surgical practice,” he said. “But there is no ability to mandate good taste.”
Dr. Greenberg said that after years of promotion and advertising, he had “more patients than I could ever want to operate on.” Still, he said, the event would lure new patients that he “may not have had otherwise.”
Many of the guests “want to meet me,” he said, because of his two-hour weekly radio show, “Nip/Tuck Saturday Night.”
As the music throbbed, Marilyn Knapp, 36, a massage therapist from Deer Park, strutted down the runway in a halter-top cocktail dress, flaunting her newly reduced and lifted breasts, flatter stomach and liposuctioned chin from procedures Dr. Greenberg had performed in March.
Ms. Knapp said she was “honored” when Dr. Greenberg asked her to be in the show because her body “was recovering so well.”
Dr. Greenberg said he didn’t offer Botox or other injections in nonmedical settings. But he mingled with potential new patients, like Shureta Povataj, 35, of the Bronx, who had come to meet him and to ask his patients if they were happy with their outcomes. She was relieved when Dr. Greenberg told her not to worry about the cellulite on the back of her legs and amenable to his suggestion that she come to his office to discuss the nose job she was considering.
Dr. Greenberg has conducted promotions at nightclubs, country clubs and educational facilities, according to Todd Shapiro, his publicist.
Yes, publicist. Mr. Shapiro said he is paid $3,000 a month to boost Dr. Greenberg’s media coverage.
Dr. Newman, 47, also has a publicist, Lucy Rosen, who said she earns $5,000 a month. At her suggestion, Dr. Newman has been making the rounds of networking events since he opened an office in Garden City in April.
“It is a matter of being visible in the community” and dispensing information, said Dr. Newman, who offers limousine service to his ambulatory surgery center in Yonkers.
As women crowded around, Dr. Newman cited one advantage of the party format. “A lot of people are afraid to come to a plastic surgeon’s office,” he said.

Source: surgery news

Surgeon Launches Updated Web Site for Plastic Surgery Patients in San Diego and the Temecula Valley

Offering plastic surgery for San Diego and Temecula residents, Dr. Richard Chaffoo is a triple board certified plastic surgeon. His updated Web site contains even more information on cosmetic options and shares stories from real patients of the practice.

La Jolla, CA (PRWEB) June 26, 2008 -- Richard Chaffoo, M.D., F.A.C.S., F.I.C.S., has just re-launched his Web site (www.drchaffoo.com) to provide new features for online visitors. He sees patients from across Southern California in communities such as San Diego, La Jolla, Temecula, and Riverside. Dr. Chaffoo is triple board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, the American Board of Otolaryngology and the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.

"I hope that this updated Web site makes it even easier for people considering plastic surgery in San Diego and the Temecula Valley to learn about their options," says Dr. Chaffoo. "Many times, the women and men who come to my practice aren't sure which procedures are right for them. That's why my site provides detailed information on almost a dozen popular plastic surgery procedures for the breast, body, and face. I also highlight information on the latest medical spa treatments, which I offer in partnership with La Jolla Dermatology."

One of the exciting new features on the site is the Real Patient Stories section, which provides accounts from 4 patients talking about their experience working with Dr. Chaffoo. A few of the stories even have personal photos shared by the patients, so that Web visitors can get a better sense of how surgery has transformed their looks.

"I am grateful to have so many patients who are willing to share their experience," says Dr. Chaffoo. "They're doing a tremendous service to others considering plastic surgery in San Diego and the Temecula Valley. People want to know what they can expect if choose cosmetic surgery, and hearing from real patients is a perfect way to learn about your options and get a sense of what to look for in a surgeon."

La Jolla and Temecula Valley plastic surgery patients choose from a wide variety of procedures at Dr. Chaffoo's practice. Many of his patients are interested in facial sculpting procedures such as rhinoplasty, eyelid surgery, or a face lift.

"My advanced training in surgery for the face, head, and neck allows me to create results for my patients that are both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional," adds Dr. Chaffoo. "For instance, a person considering nose surgery may want to enhance their look, improve their breathing, or both. Most cosmetic surgeons won't deal with a patient's functional concerns, but I have advanced knowledge of the structures of the nose and can provide comprehensive improvement."

Dr. Chaffoo also offers surgical procedures for the breast and body. Many women are ready for a breast enhancement procedure such as breast augmentation, breast lift, or breast reduction. Body contouring procedures include liposuction and abdominoplasty, a procedure also known as a tummy tuck.

"No matter what their procedure interest, I hope visitors to my updated site can see the dedication my staff and I have to achieving remarkable results and ensuring patients have a satisfying experience from start to finish."

Dr. Richard Chaffoo (www.drchaffoo.com) holds the rare distinction of being triple board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), the American Board of Otolaryngology (Head and Neck Surgery) and the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Dr. Chaffoo possesses over 20 years of experience in aesthetic surgery. The San Diego plastic surgeon has two plastic surgery centers - one in La Jolla and one in Murrieta - where he serves patients from Riverside to San Diego. Dr. Chaffoo is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), Fellow of The American College of Surgeons, and member of The International College of Surgeons. He also holds fellowships and faculty positions at Stanford University and The University of California at San Diego.

Soruce: Plastic surgery

Dry Skin Care Breakthrough Also Helps You Look Younger

Montrose, CA (THE OPEN PRESS) June 23, 2008 -- As much as people say it doesn’t matter to them that they look older, it’s hard to imagine a woman who doesn’t look in the mirror and wish those lines, wrinkles, creases and crepe-y skin would just go away. But without surgery or other invasive procedures, that’s a tall order. However, there’s a new breakthrough in skin care technology women are raving about. Most started using it for dry skin care and were very pleasantly surprised to discover it also made them look younger. What is this breakthrough skin care product? It’s called shielding lotion – find out what it can do.

Unlike other skin care products, a good shielding lotion actually enables the skin to heal. It bonds with the outer layer of the skin to form a new protective layer that keeps out chemicals while locking in natural moisture. That protection, along with natural healing ingredients, can make changes you would never expect from a dry skin care product.

Here’s what users have to say:

"I wouldn't go without this shielding lotion. My hands, arms and face are baby soft all during the winter. Young people want to know how come I look so young.....instead of 66, they all think I am 50! I love your product... and am even using it in the summer because going from hot, humid weather into drying air conditioning is not the best thing for your skin, either!"

“I liked shielding lotion so much I went back and bought three additional bottles. I notice it has a tightening effect (on my face) which at age 50, is probably all good! It’s not dreadful like some skin care products that make you feel like you just put bondo on your face, just a little extra "something."

“I got rid of all of my moisturizers. I mean, really, why bother? I am 47 and they say 40 is the new 30. This is going to help me retain my youth for the rest of my life. I can't imagine being without this stuff. I have found a product that is going to help my body retain its youthfulness. I'm going to age so slowly as a result - that's just the bottom line."

"I am in my late 50s and my skin is showing signs of my age with wrinkles and some deep lines. Recently there were hot, dry Santa Ana winds blowing and my exposed skin felt dry and crackling like I was being eaten by invisible fire ants. I began using shielding lotion on my arms and legs and got instant relief. Then I noticed that the thin skin on my lower legs looked young again and had lost that shiny, papery look. A few days later, after I stepped out of the shower, I put some of your shielding lotion on my arms & legs while it was still moist and then, because my face felt tight and dry, I put it on my face and neck. Voila! I looked younger. There was an obvious difference almost immediately. I have continued to use it on my face and throat and that crepe-y upper chest skin for the last few months. There has been a remarkable difference in my skin in these areas. The skin under my chin is not wrinkling as much while I lose weight, and the thin skin on my chest below my throat seems thicker. Best of all, the lines on my face have reduced dramatically. I am thrilled! Not only does the skin on my arms, legs and feet feel great but they look younger too. The best part is the fact that my facial skin looks so much younger and smoother.”

If you haven’t tried this revolutionary skin care product yet, there’s no time like the present. If you get even half the results experienced by these users, you’ll be thanking yourself very soon. And, really, although looking younger may not be important enough to warrant surgery, wouldn’t it be great to get just a little help – and find a good dry skin care treatment in the process?

Source: Skin Treatment

Microdermabrasion-Chemical Peels Treatment can change you look

There are a number of skin treatments which promise a refreshed, even complexion, utilising safe methods. And who doesn't want that?

Well, microdermabrasion might be for you. The process originated in Europe in the late 1990s and was dubbed, 'the lunchtime peel', because of the quick recovery time. It is a popular process which takes place right there in your dermatologist's office.

According to local dermatologist Dr Frances Berry: "Micro-dermabrasion is a resurfacing technique, which involves the combination of suction and buffing or lightly abrading the skin with crystals to remove or exfoliate the outer layers of the skin, allowing replacement with fresher, smoother skin and stimulating collagen repair," he said in an interview.

Primarily, it is used for rejuvenation, treatment of the changes we see with ageing, like sallow and rough skin, dark spots, fine wrinkles. He said it can also be used for melasma, shallow scars and stretch marks.

It takes approximately 15-20 minutes. "A hand-piece is used to direct a stream of crystals over the skin which are then vacuumed or suctioned off," he added.

Relatively painless, the feeling is often described as a vacuuming sensation.

Individuals require a series of three to six treatments every one to two weeks, and some patients may require maintenance treatments once a month. There may be some redness after the procedure. Individuals may resume their normal activities but are usually advised to avoid sunlight and products with Retin-A or other retinoids for 48 hours. Moisturisers and mild cleansers are suggested during this period. Some side effects may include mild stripping of the skin.

Microdermabrasion may be used in combination with chemical peels for greater effect. It can be used on all skin types and requires no anaesthetic.

Source: Health News

Taking care of your skin

Healthy skin is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle - and vice versa. For good skin care, start developing healthy habits that protect your skin from the outside and the inside.

• Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated.
• Eat well-balanced meals.
• Protect your skin from the harmful rays of the sun.
• Practice an effective skin care regimen.

To take care of your skin effectively, you need to identify your skin type. When choosing how to cleanse and treat your skin, remember that what works for someone else will not necessarily work for you. Based on the characteristics of your skin, skin types can be grouped into one of the following:

Dry skin: Often feels uncomfortably tight and rough. For this particular skin type, avoid cleansing with hot water and using soaps and alcohol-based products. Cleansing creams or cloths will help infuse moisture into the skin without stripping away natural surface oils. It is important to moisturize your face with lotions or creams to keep your skin hydrated and looking its best!

Oily skin: Skin may appear shiny with dilated pores and is prone to blackheads and pimples. Use a mild cleanser twice a day. If acne breakouts are a problem, talk to your dermatologist to help you select a medicated face wash best suited for your skin. Don't make the mistake of over-scrubbing acne-prone skin - it will worsen the problem. After cleansing, follow up with an astringent to remove the excess oil. Moisturize with a light oil-free product specifically formulated for oily skin types. Avoid using any type of oil-based cosmetics on your skin, as they may clog pores and promote pimples and blackheads.

Combination skin: People with combination skin have areas that are dry and areas that are oily. The nose, forehead, and chin tend to be the oily zones. There are many products on the market that can be applied to both areas of your face.

Normal skin: People with "normal" skin have a pinkish, glowing complexion with hard-to-see pores. This type of skin maintains a balance between dryness and oiliness. As this skin presents no particular problems, its water/oil balance does not need adjustment - just ongoing maintenance. Therefore, the use of a skin care product that helps the skin keep its water balance is recommended.

People with sensitive skin should always use beauty aids that are mild. Always test the product on a small area on your arm to see how your skin reacts before using it on your face. Don't assume that a "natural source" product doesn't contain ingredients that can irritate your skin. Try cleansing with gentle, milky, water-soluble lotions and tepid water. Avoid face-cleansing gels or soaps that contain drying alcohol, preservatives, or strong-acting acid, since these ingredients can irritate the skin. Do not use exfoliating scrubs or astringents on sensitive skin, because they can cause inflammation.

Source: news

Anti-ageing cream goes young

When consumer products major Hindustan Unilever (HUL) recently relaunched its Pond’s anti-aging skin cream range, it was not only launching a ‘new-improved’ version of the product but also responding to a larger change in the core target consumers of anti-aging products — from the middle-aged 35-40-years-old women to 20-something girls, yes, but even men too!

Says Oriflame India national sales manager Shilpa Ajwani: “Today, we have customers in the 20-years-plus age group who start preventive skin care through anti-aging creams and while women are still the larger consumer base, there is faster growth in demand for anti-aging products by men too. This is unlike the scenario sometime back when classically 40-years-plus women were our target customers.”

The company launches about six anti-aging products a month, which now account for over a quarter of its sales in India.

Cosmetics are conventionally bundled into three categories — skin lightning, moisturising and anti-aging. Market research firm ACNielsen puts the anti-aging cosmetic market in India at over Rs 60 crore. Though just over 2% of the country’s Rs 3,000-crore skin care market, the anti-aging segment is the fastest growing at 93% year-on-year.

Anti-aging cosmetics include products as diverse as anti-aging lipsticks and eye balms, facial creams, hair lotions and foot creams. Consumers pay Rs 500-6,000 for such products from brands like Mary Kay, Revlon, Schwarzkopf, Procter & Gamble, HUL, et al.

Schwarzkopf Professional country head Murali Sundar confirms anti-aging products’ age defying trend: “With time, usage of anti-aging products has got little to do with a person’s age. Rising consumer awareness means that people in their late twenties have started buying our anti-aging hair care products. While the bulk of our customers are still women, men are fast waking up to hair-care.”

While busy lifestyles and concomitant stress hasten skin aging, rising incomes and awareness are facilitating fast consumer adoption of anti-aging products. But that’s not all, for there is also another important factor at play here. Consumers today opt to prevent and correct rather than repair at a later stage. Marketers are quick to spot this trend and are responding appropriately.

Says HUL skin care category head Venkat Shridhar: “Today, sales of bulk of our anti-aging creams come from 28-30-years-old women. Personal care spends have increased a lot in the past 3-4 years. Easy access to parlours, supermarkets and greater exposure to media have led people to spend more on hygiene and beauty. Hence, all our communication also highlights prevention as the way out to delay aging.”

Agrees Mary Kay India senior marketing manager Nirupama Rao: “Anti-aging products have ceased to be prescriptive in nature. Today, they are used for preventive purposes. Consumers realise that they help in delaying the damage caused due to aging.”

Though the current penetration of anti-aging products is low, marketers see huge potential in the category and are prioritising for its growth. Says Devendra Shinde, marketing head, Kaya Skin Clinic, Marico’s 56-store strong skin-care division: “Our age control Botox and Fillers treatments have grown up to four times in the last year.
Currently, age control packages account for 15% of our revenues and are expected to grow even more robustly.”

“We are witnessing a 30% year-on-year growth in the anti-aging segment. The age of consumers of anti-aging cosmetics is coming down rapidly and there is increased penetration of these products in India. This segment is expected to contribute substantially to our growth,” says Revlon India marketing director Deepak Bhandari. The company markets its anti-aging products under the Revlon Reveal brand, priced Rs 350-750.

Source: Economic times