Parallels Between the World of Fashion and Plastic Surgery - September 8, 2011
In the spirit of Fashion’s Night Out happening tonight on Newbury Street, I thought it would be interesting to look at how the field of cosmetic surgery relates to the world of fashion.
Although I do not follow the world of fashion very closely, I have a great respect for designers that demonstrate creativity, innovation, and quality in their work. When successfully executed, fashion is an art form that is a response to current events and reflects a global culture. But it also is a way to superficially manipulate the human form.
When I look at the field of plastic surgery and that of fashion, I find there are many connections between the two. Both are ways of sculpting the body into new shapes and lines. Both fields require a creative approach and fine craftsmanship. Both fields have certain trends or fads that come and go with the times. And just as a misplaced dart or crooked seem can ruin the appearance of a suit, a plastic surgeon must be an impeccable tailor of the human form, with respect to proportion and balance. But to me the most special aspect of the two fields are their ability to alter a person’s self image and empower them with self-confidence. That is where creativity, innovation, and design all come into play.
When I have a patient come into my office, my objective is to have them leave feeling better about themselves than when they came in. And in some cases that means advising patients against surgery. Some fashions are not right for everyone, and some surgical procedures are not right for everyone either. The career of a fashion designer and cosmetic surgeon may appear to be very different; the challenges and rewards are more or less the same.
La Perla Event A Great Success - September 7, 2011
Thank you to everyone who attended the La Perla/Adams Center Event last month. It was a great success and we look forward to having more events like this in the future.
This week be sure not to miss The Newbury Street League’s Fashion’s Night Out on Thursday September 8th from 6-10 pm. For the first time in 15 years, Newbury Street will be restricted to only pedestrian traffic for this exciting event.
Most Popular Cosmetic Surgeries in the US in 2010 - July 25, 2011
The Adams Center & La Perla Boston Team Up For Shape Couture Event - July 22, 2011
The Adams Center and La Perla invite you to view the new Shape Couture collection.
Enjoy a free and private mini consultation with Dr. Adams and receive 15% off any first treatment (Botox, Juvederm, or choice of aesthetician treatment)
Champagne and hors d’oeuvres will be served. Receive 15% off any purchase* in store.
AUGUST 10, 2011
6PM to 8PM
250 BOYLSTON STREET
BOSTON, MA (617) 423-5709
RSVP to ivy@adams-center.com
BY AUGUST 6, 2011
An Adams MD skincare starter kit and 50% off a Botox injection will be auctioned off at the end of the event to a single winner.
*DISCOUNT APPLIES TO FULL PRICE MERCHANDISE ONLY
Spider Vein Treatment - June 9, 2011
There are a couple of options for treating unsightly spider veins
As the temperatures warm and you find yourself shedding layers, spider veins are an annoyance you don’t want to worry about as you head to the beach. These reddish purple veins are commonly found on the thighs, calves, and ankles. Spider Veins should not be confused with varicose veins. Varicose veins are much larger in size and push the surface of the skin upwards. Treatment for varicose veins often requires surgery whereas spider veins can be removed non-surgically.
Sclerotherapy is one popular treatment option which involves injecting a solution into several points along the vein. The lining of the veins react to the solution and begins breaking down the veins walls. Supportive stockings must be worn post treatment for compression, which assists in breaking down the vein walls. The veins gradually disappear as the veins are absorbed back into the body resulting in a more even, youthful appearance.
This is a non-surgical procedure that can be done in office. However, please keep in mind you must wear supportive stockings post treatment for about two weeks and the treated areas should be protected from the sun during this period as well. Some bruising and brown pigmentation may also occur in the treated areas during this recovery period. Sometimes more than one treatment is necessary for complete spider vein removal.
Check out my about.me profile!
Life Offers Opportunities At Every Stage - June 8, 2011
This past weekend I attended my son’s college graduation in Denver, Colorado from the University of Denver’s School of Business. There are certain events in life that mark a transition from one stage of life into another – forcing us to look critically at where we stand now and at the direction in which we are heading.
Graduations are one such of these occasions. It has been 44 years since I graduated from Dartmouth College in the spring of 1967. Sitting in the audience I was reminded of how much possibility and opportunity we see in our younger years. ”Rules for the Long Road” was the theme of the commencement speech delivered by former Cisco president John Mordgridge, and it succeeded in including every generation present. However, the most memorable point he made that I took away with me and that I would like to share with you is this. Life offers opportunities at every stage of life.
“I long had a goal of becoming president of a company.” Morgridge said, “But it was not till I was 57 years old that I became president of Cisco Systems with its 34 employees. Life offers opportunity at every stage.”
As we get older, it’s easy to forget about looking at the world with new eyes, to maintain that hunger and desire to do more. We find comfort in routine and familiarity. As a plastic surgeon, a lot of my work has to do with helping patients reverse or slow down the aging process. We all want to look and feel as good as we did when we were in our 20s. As we age, I think it’s important to look at how our attitudes and values change with every stage, not only the lines and creases on our faces.
I will leave with Morgdriges departing words to the class of 2011.
““Stay hungry. Stay foolish. I’ve always wished that for myself. And now as you set out on your new phase of life, I wish that for you. Congratulations, and good luck.”
IPL – Intense Pulsed Light Photofacials - June 3, 2011
IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Treatments are a minimally invasive procedure that can help restore the skin’s youthful appearance. IPL works through a process called photorejuvination – in which light is delivered to the skin surface in precise pulses. It can treat many skin conditions including:
- Fine Lines and Wrinkles
- Age Spots
- Sun Damage
- Acne Scarring
- Symptoms of Rosacea
- Birthmarks
- Unsightly Veins
- Unwanted Hair
IPL is typically used on the face, neck, chest, and hands although it can also be used elsewhere. It is very good at treating photaged or sun damaged skin. I have many patients come into my office looking to treat age spots, sun-induced freckles, brown pigment spots, and broken capillaries. IPL is a great choice for patients who lead an active lifestyle and do not have time for a lengthly recovery period. On average, 4 – 6 treatments are recommended, scheduled at three-week intervals with each session lasting about 30 minutes.
IPL works by transmitting broad spectrum light through a small transparent hand piece placed over the skin. The light penetrates the skin tissue and is absorbed by either the blood (when treating vascular lesions) or the melanin (when treating pigmented lesions). The injured tissues are then removed through the body’s natural processes resulting in a more even skin tone and youthful appearance.
How IPL works, picture courtesy of Lumenis
We recently acquired the new Lumenis 1640 IPL laser in our Peabody office. This is the cutting edge technology when it comes to IPL and it can even be used to remove stretch marks. This summer we are offering a special Full Face IPL Treatment for only $299 during June, July, and August. This a great price if you are looking to try IPL for the first time or if you are continuing a series of treatments. Contact us today to schedule your appointment!
Check out my about.me profile!
RevitaLash Eyelash Conditioner - June 1, 2011
RevitaLash is a cosmetic eyelash conditioner used to help eyelashes regain health, strength, and beauty. RevitaLash was developed by Dr. Michael Brinkenhoff, M.D. in an effort to help his wife Gayle after intensive chemotherapy treatments damaged her once beautiful, long eyelashes. The product should be applied once per day to the base of the eyelashes. I recommend using RevitaLash when you will not be applying eye makeup. Some people see results after as little as three weeks, while other patients take up to ten weeks to see measurable results. This product can be used on both men and women’s eyelashes.
Here is a video from NBC about the product Revitalash, available at both Adams Center offices.
Check out my about.me profile!
Choosing Plastic Surgery for the Right Reason - May 19, 2011
Nude in Blue Artist: Farhad Rafizadeh, MD
Choosing to have plastic surgery is a life changing decision. I want to take a moment here to emphasize how important it is to undergo surgery for the right reasons. Recently, there has been a lot of negative media surrounding cosmetic surgery and I want to point out that there are right and wrong reasons to seek out a change in appearance. It’s disheartening to see people seeking out plastic surgery following a divorce in order to “get revenge” on their former spouse. It’s also disappointing to see young people look to cosmetic surgery in order to look like their favorite celebrity or model. The decision to get plastic surgery should not be to fill a void or fix a shortcoming one sees in themselves. It should be a decision made in conjunction with a healthy lifestyle and self respecting identity, as I like to say – a whole body approach to beauty. Here are a few reasons I do encourage patients to consider surgery.
Decrease the Signs of Aging
The majority of patients I see for surgery as well as non-surgical procedures come to me to reverse the signs of aging. Thanks to technological advances in the field of cosmetic surgery, we have redefined what old age looks like. I have many patients that come to me with the concern that they don’t look as good as they feel. Many want to improve the tired appearance wrinkles and loss of volume in the face tend to create.
Remove Localized Fat Deposits
As we get older and our metabolism slows, there are certain stubborn areas of fat on our bodies that seem immune to diet and exercise. While liposuction is not a replacement for diet and exercise, it can help to get rid of localized fat deposits when done in conjunction with a healthy and active lifestyle.
Reverse Effects of Childbirth
In recent years, there has been a surge in the popularity of the Mommy Make-Over. There are certain negative effects childbirth has on the body that require surgery in order for women to reclaim their pre-baby bodies. Sagging breasts, excess stomach fat, and loose skin are all reasons women seek out plastic surgery following childbirth.
Check out my about.me profile!
Do You Love the Adams Center? Write us a Review! - May 17, 2011
If you’ve had an experience at the Adams Center that you would like to share with others, please take a moment to write us a review!
Check out my about.me profile!
More Men Opting for Plastic Surgery - May 13, 2011
In the past decade, I have noticed a large increase in the number of male patients at my practice. In general, men are beginning to pay more attention to their appearance. According to Men’s Health, the male grooming market is now worth 3.5 billion and rising. Many men who come into my office remark that they don’t look as good as they feel. It’s good to see that attitudes are shifting away from the idea that cosmetic surgery is strictly for women. And not just surgery – skin care too. With the available surgeries and procedures, it’s possible to look fresh and energetic well into your 40′s, 50′s, and even 60′s.
According the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, here are the top 5 cosmetic surgeries for men in 2010:
1. Nose Reshaping [Rhinoplasty]
2. Hair Transplantation
3. Eyelid Surgery [Blepharoplasty]
4. Liposuction
5. Breast Reductions
2010 Top Five Male Cosmetic Minimally-Invasive Procedures
1. Botulinum Toxin Type A [Botox]
2. Laser Hair Removal
3. Microdermabrasion
4. Chemical Peel
5. Soft Tissue Fillers
Check out my about.me profile!
Obagi Skin Care Transformations - May 9, 2011
Here are some videos from Obagi Medical that I recommend watching. The Adams Center carries the full line of Obagi Products, availabe in both of our offices.
Check out my about.me profile!
A Make-Up that’s Good for your Skin? Jane Iredale Cosmetics - May 9, 2011
Skin care has always been a very large part of my practice. I believe in a whole body approach to beauty, and having healthy and clear skin is important for feeling good about yourself and your face. I see so many women today layering on make-up to cover up acne and uneven skin tone without addressing the real issue of their skin. The skin is a very interesting organ and a reflection of your general health. Although some people are genetically predisposed to skin problems and irritations, the majority of us create problems by not caring for our skin properly. Exercise, diet, and sun protection are extremely important for healthy skin, as is not smoking. But what about the products you use daily on your skin? What exactly is in the make-up you apply every morning?
The skin is an organ and it likes to breathe. By layering synthetic make-up directly onto the skin, we are preventing it from breathing. In turn, it clogs your pores and causes break-outs.
Over the years I have tested a number of different make-up brands and I have never been completely satisfied until I came across Jane Iredale. This company sought out to create a make-up line that would actually be beneficial to the skin. All of the cosmetics are made out of natural minerals that do not clog pores or aggravate the skin and are virtually allergy free. The make-up is made out of minerals and pigments that are micro-pulverized to form microscopic flat particles. When you apply to the skin, these particles overlap each other and create a filter, enabling the skin to breathe naturally. The products also offer up to SPF 30 sun protection and also protect from air-borne pollutants. I have been very satisfied with the quality and performance of the Jane Iredale line and highly recommend it for anyone.
We are currently offering 20% off the entire Jane Iredale Make-Up Line during the month of May. Be sure to try the new Jane Iredale Sunless Tanner – a great way to get some color without sacrificing the health of your skin!
Check out my about.me profile!
ASAPS Boston Meeting 20011 Begins Today! - May 6, 2011
ASAPS Boston Meeting 2011 May 6-11 at the Boston Convention Center
Today marks the start of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery’s 44th annual meeting held at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center. This year’s theme is Affirming the Science of Aesthetic Surgery with an emphasis on Evidence-Based Medicine (EBM).
Evidence-Based Medicine is a tool that systematically ranks the scientific validity of a study based on 5 levels of evidence and qualifying studies. The purpose of EBM is to improve patient safety, distinguish aesthetic surgery education, and separate all ties to “junk” medicine or science.
The ASAPS annual meeting is one of the foremost events in the field of cosmetic surgery and I am very excited to be attending. I love attending these conferences because it allows me to stay on top the the latest trends and studies. Throughout the week, I will be attending a series of workshops, forums, and exhibits. I am eager to reconnect with old colleagues, meet new people, and soak up lots to share with you all.
For a Limited Time – Rebates on Restylane & Dysport - May 5, 2011
I want to let my readers know that for a limited time, Restylane and Dysport are offering special summer rebates.
Dysport is a prescription injectable used for the temporary improvement in the look of frown lines between the eyebrows (glabellar lines). It is recommended for adults under age 65. Dysport works by blocking the signal from the nerve to the muscles. This limits muscle activity in the region and temporarily prevents contraction of the muscles that cause frown lines. From May 1st until June 30th, Dysport is offering a $50 rebate.
Click here to download the Dysport Rebate Form: DysportRebateForm
Restylane is a family of injectable gels that works by restoring fullness and volume to the skin. It is most commonly used to temporarily correct nasolabial folds or laugh lines, such as the lines from your nose to the corners of your mouth. It can also be used to correct lipstick lines and marionette lines. You’ll see results immediately following your treatment. For a limited time, you can save up to $390 on Restylane.
Click here to download the Restylane Rewards Redemption Form: RestylaneRewardsRedemptionForm