Permanent Plumping With Lip Augmentation

Want a fuller, more youthful lip contour? The cosmetic procedure called lip augmentation can help you plump your lips permanently with advanced injectable fillers, fat transfer, or lip implants. Adding volume to the lips can have a positive effect on the appearance of the entire face, creating a soft, attractive look.

Lip augmentation is a great option for patients who have naturally thin lips or who have lost fullness as a result of aging. As an added benefit, lip augmentation patients may also experience reduced wrinkles and lines around the mouth. This minimally-invasive cosmetic option is gaining popularity as new fillers and techniques improve the type of results that are possible.

Injectable fillers – Safe, FDA-approved injectable fillers such as Juvederm or Restylane can be used to achieve the desired fullness. The results are temporary as most fillers absorb into the body; however full lips can be maintained long term with repeat treatments.

Fat transfer – In this procedure, fat cells from another part of your body are transferred to the lips. Many patients will enjoy permanent results with fat transfer.

Lip Implants – Implants made from biocompatible materials are surgically implanted into the lips for a permanent plumping solution. SoftForm, GoreTex or Alloderm are a few of the choices available today.

If you are interested in beautifying your lips with augmentation, schedule a confidential consultation with an experienced cosmetic surgeon. Your doctor can go over the details of this simple cosmetic procedure, discuss your financing options, and show you before and after photos.

For more information on lip augmentation, contact Orange County plastic surgeon Dr. Nirav Savalia at Finesse Aesthetic and Plastic Surgery.

—Lindsey Kesel, Cosmetic Surgery Consultant

Finding Affordable Cosmetic Surgery

Treating yourself to advanced cosmetic procedures can be an incredibly rewarding experience. When cosmetic surgery is performed by a skilled, experienced plastic surgeon, the results can do wonders for your self-image and self-confidence. Think of cosmetic surgery as more than simply an elective procedure, think of it as an investment in yourself.

When considering cosmetic surgery, you will naturally want to pay attention to cost, and you might even comparison shop a few Orange County practices. The good news is that you can have the body reshaping procedures you want without breaking your budget.

Many cosmetic practices offer affordable financing options like CareCredit, giving you the freedom to pay over time. You can choose from no-interest financing, or low-interest financing for a longer term. In most cases, you can apply for financing during your consultation and receive an instant decision. Payment plans may be used by to pay for a variety of procedures, from Botox^® and other nonsurgical facial treatments to body contouring surgeries like breast augmentation and liposuction.

Remember that while cost is in issue, especially in today’s economic environment, you‘ve got to take all factors into consideration before choosing a surgeon. Make sure your physician has years of experience, and that the staff and facilities are right for you. Ask about each practice’s pre- and post-op care, as well as their after care facilities. And take the time to go through before and after photos to get an idea of the quality of work.

Finding affordable cosmetic surgery is easier than you thought. To get started, set up a personal, confidential consultation with Dr. Nirav Savalia at Finesse Aesthetic and Plastic Surgery.

Ear Surgery for Adults or Kids

Ear surgery, also called “ear pinning” or “otoplasty,” has helped countless adults and children avoid the negative self-image effects of protruding or abnormal ears. By gently reshaping and sculpting the ear cartilage, a skilled cosmetic surgeon can give you a more desirable, balanced ear shape and size. Even subtle ear pinning can make a big difference in the appearance of the face and head, producing very rewarding results.

Ear surgery can improve the following conditions:

• Protruding ears
• Oversized ears
• Lop ear (folding tip)
• Cupped ear (small ear)
• Shell ear (missing curves and creases)
• Stretched earlobes
• Large creases and wrinkles

Otoplasty for Children

Physical abnormalities are often pronounced on small bodies, and many kids may feel self-conscious about misshapen ears or endure teasing. Cosmetic ear surgery is commonly performed on children after age 5, or even adults, to improve the proportions and correct defects. Compared to other surgical procedures, the risks and recovery are minimal, making childhood an ideal time for ear pinning.

The Ear Pinning Procedure

Ear pinning can be performed under general anesthesia or under local anesthesia with sedation in a 2 – 3 hour procedure. An experienced plastic surgeon will use the reconstructive process to create a new ear shape that fits well with other facial features. Recovery for both adults and children averages about one week.

Is ear surgery right for you?

If you are considering ear surgery for yourself or your child, talk to an experienced Orange County otoplasty surgeon about the possibilities. Take a look at a variety of before and after photos to help you see what kinds of results are possible with this procedure. Please contact Dr. Nirav Savalia today at Finesse Aesthetic and Plastic Surgery today to set up your new patient consultation.

—Lindsey Kesel, Cosmetic Surgery Consultant

Skin Cancer Treatment

For patients battling or overcoming skin cancer, things like appearance, self-image and confidence can be deeply affected by the course of this disease. Cells of the body can be injured by the cancer itself, weakened by radiation treatments, or damaged during surgical cancer removal. In the uphill battle to beat the disease, skin cancer reconstruction offers cancer patients a way to restore dignity and improve appearance.

Especially in sunny climates like Newport Beach, skin cancer is highly prevalent. Invasive skin cancer can mean anything from minor scars to disfigurement following the removal of diseased cells.

By seeking an experienced reconstructive plastic surgeon, you may be able to restore the healthy, normal skin appearance that was lost during skin cancer treatment. Skin cancer reconstruction is most commonly performed after Moh’s surgery of the neck and facial areas, but can be used on almost any area of the body. Advanced reconstruction techniques such as skin grafting and facial flaps may be recommended to return skin altered by cancer removal to a normal appearance. Refining treatments like dermabrasion, scar revision and laser skin smoothing can be used to further repair the damage and enhance results.

If you are facing skin cancer surgery, visit with a skilled skin cancer reconstruction doctor to discuss your options. For more information on skin cancer reconstruction, please contact Newport Beach skin cancer reconstruction surgeon Dr. Nirav Savalia at Finesse Aesthetic and Plastic Surgery.

—Lindsey Kesel, Cosmetic Surgery Consultant

Breast Reconstruction Primer

Breast reconstruction is a type of surgery performed to recreate the breast following a mastectomy, lumpectomy, or injury. Cosmetic surgeons who are experienced in breast reconstruction apply their knowledge of form and aesthetics to expertly reconstruct the breast with a natural-looking shape and texture.

If you are considering breast reconstruction surgery, here is a general introduction to the procedure. To get relevant, personalized information on breast reconstruction techniques and steps, please see a skilled reconstruction surgeon.

In a total breast reconstruction surgery,

• The surgeon will use a safe breast implant to recreates the breast shape.
• In some cases, a patient’s own body tissue may be harvested from another area to build the breast, or a combination of these two types may be used.
• If implants are used, the patient chooses from silicone or saline and can choose from a variety of shapes, styles and textures.
• Multiple surgeries will be needed to achieve the final result.
• Additional procedures may be performed to add a nipple, change the shape or size of the reconstructed breast, or adjust the opposite breast to match.

Although a reconstructed breast will not have normal sensation and may not look exactly like a natural breast, the reconstructive field continues to produce amazing advancements in breast reconstruction surgery. Breast reconstruction can do wonders for your self-confidence and help you regain a sense of femininity and sensuality.

Reconstruction may be performed at the same time as a mastectomy or lumpectomy, depending on your situation. Please consult your mastectomy surgeon as well as a reconstructive surgeon for more details.

Will insurance cover breast reconstruction?

The Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act of 1998 made it mandatory for health providers to pay for breast reconstruction if they cover mastectomy. Your reconstructive surgeon can help you determine exactly what is covered.

Find out if you are a good candidate for breast reconstruction. Schedule a thorough surgical consultation with Dr. Nirav Savalia at Finesse Aesthetic and Plastic Surgery to learn more about this amazing procedure.

—Lindsey Kesel, Cosmetic Surgery Consultant

Treating the Turkey Neck

Gravity and time can be unforgiving. For many women and men, the effects of aging take their toll on the neck area, often creating a neck appearance that draws attention away from positive facial features.

The dreaded “turkey neck” occurs when the skin surrounding the lower face and neck loses elasticity, and the muscles loosen, causing sagging. Although it is more commonly present in people age 60 and up, turkey neck can occur even in the early 50s due to genetics, sun damage, or other environmental factors.

Thankfully, there’s a solution. A cosmetic neck lift procedure can help you restore a smooth jaw line and a well-defined neck through expert muscle tightening and skin removal. Although nonsurgical treatments like Botox may help improve the appearance of wrinkling or creasing, a surgical neck lift is really the best aggressive solution for the dramatic improvement of loose neck skin. The procedure lasts a few hours, and down time ranges about ten days.

Depending on your situation, neck lift surgery may involve the use of different techniques, including:

Liposuction — the removal of fat deposits

Cervicoplasty — the excision of excess skin

Platysmaplasty — the tightening of neck muscles

Additional surgical procedures, such as eyelid surgery, forehead lift or facelift, may be recommended to optimize the results of a neck lift. To learn more about the benefits of neck lift, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Nirav Savalia at Finesse Aesthetic and Plastic Surgery.

Turn Back the Clock With Chemical Peels

How can you improve the look and condition of skin without surgery or expensive creams? Chemical peels are a very cost-effective way to refresh and rejuvenate skin with little discomfort or downtime. These treatments involve the application of a safe, chemical-based solution that helps remove dead skin cells, revealing a fresh, new layer of skin. Chemical peels are most often performed on the face, but may also be used on other areas of the body affected by aging or sun damage.

You may be a candidate for a chemical peel if you want to:

• Reduce fine lines around the eyes and mouth
• Minimize acne and scarring
• Minimize freckles, sunspots, or other areas of hyperpigmentation
• Promote even skin tone

Depending on your needs, your cosmetic surgeon will choose the type of solution that will work best. (Salicyclic acid, lactic acid, and glycolic acid are a few options.) Together, you will also choose the depth of peel — superficial, medium, or deep. After the application and removal of the solution, you may feel a stinging or warm sensation. When redness or irritation subsides, you’ll notice a smoother feel and a more even skin tone.

To find out more about chemical peels, schedule a complimentary consultation with facial rejuvenation expert Dr. Nirav Savalia at Finesse Aesthetic and Plastic Surgery.

—Lindsey Kesel, Cosmetic Surgery Consultant

Turn Back the Clock With Facial Anti-Aging Options

Time can be unforgiving. But with state-of-the art cosmetic treatments, you can defy Mother Nature and keep your age all to yourself. Thanks to recent advancements in facial rejuvenation, there’s never been so many anti-aging options for you to choose from. Whether you are looking for a quick, nonsurgical solution with no downtime or a more dramatic, surgical solution, an experienced cosmetic surgeon can help you find the perfect procedure. Remember, too, that you can combine treatments to help you achieve your facial rejuvenation goals.

Here are a few of your choices:

Surgical facial anti-aging procedures include:
• Facelift
• Forehead lift
• Eyelid lift
• Neck lift
• Cheek implants
• Chin implants
• Fat transfer

Nonsurgical facial rejuvenation options include:
• Botox
• Chemical peels
• Lip augmentation
• Juvederm
• Restylane
• Collagen
• Radiesse
• Sculptra

To learn more about the different facial treatments, read patient testimonials or visit a facial rejuvenation Before and After Gallery. If you are considering a surgical anti-aging solution, you may want to do some research on what to expect for pre- and post-op care.

If you would like to discuss your facial anti-aging options, schedule a complimentary consultation with cosmetic surgeon Dr. Nirav Savalia at Finesse Aesthetic and Plastic Surgery today.

—Lindsey Kesel, Cosmetic Surgery Consultant

Rest Easy With Wrinkle Fillers

How do you address the problem of facial wrinkles, but avoid the commitment of surgery? Wrinkle fillers are a wonderful, effective solution for the signs of aging that require very little time or cost.

Restylane, Collagen, Juvederm, Prevelle Silk, Radiesse and Artefill are six popular wrinkle fillers that have been producing amazing results for patients worldwide. Here’s what you need to know:

Restylane — Fight medium to deep facial wrinkles with this special serum that recreates the natural “sugar” molecule that exists within our skin called hyaluronate. Restylane works great on crow’s feet, laugh lines and frown lines, acne and chickenpox scars. Restylane can also be used cheek contouring and chin augmentation. Only ten to 15 minutes per area is required, repeated an average of every six to 12 months.

Juvederm — This new dermal filler is the only hyaluronic acid filler FDA-approved to last up to one year! This injectable gel uses the naturally-occurring substance hyaluronic acid to add volume and hydration to aging skin. Facial wrinkles and folds are instantly smoothed for a more youthful, natural look.

Prevelle Silk— Just FDA-approved in March of 2008, Prevelle Silk is a colorless HA gel with lidocaine used to minimize the appearance of moderate to severe facial lines, folds, and wrinkles. A recent clinical study showed that the presence of lidocaine resulted in significantly reduced discomfort during treatment.

Radiesse — Using calcium-based microsphere technology, Radiesse stimulates the body to produce collagen, resulting in smoother, younger-looking skin. Radiesse is great for adding volume to aging facial skin and improving areas with wrinkles and creases.

Artefill — As a non-resorbable wrinkle filler, Artefill is used to correct smile lines (nasolabial folds) for permanent results. Usually just one or two treatments are required for noticeable results.

Talk to your cosmetic surgeon about these and other nonsurgical facial rejuvenation treatments. A skilled cosmetic surgeon can help you choose the treatment that is right for your goals and lifestyle.

For a more dramatic change, you may also want to consider surgical procedures like the face lift, forehead lift, and neck lift.

To learn more about facial fillers, schedule a complimentary consultation with cosmetic surgeon Dr. Nirav Savalia at Finesse Aesthetic and Plastic Surgery today.

—Lindsey Kesel, Cosmetic Surgery Consultant

Breast Implants Primer

If you’re considering breast enlargement surgery, there are some things you should know about your options.

While the best place to start is to schedule a confidential, complimentary consultation with an experienced cosmetic surgeon, you might want to take a little time to research the various types, shapes and sizes of implants available. You can also read patient testimonials and talk to other breast surgery patients about their experiences before you make any decisions about your procedure.

Here’s a quick glance at the choices available today:

Implant Size
Implant size is a very personal choice and will depend largely on your appearance goals, as well as your comprehensive body measurements. Remember that your breast appearance will be affected by the size of your waist and other proportional factors. You may want to collect magazine or photos of women with your interpretation ideal proportions and stay within the manufacturer’s maximum recommended volume for natural-looking results and safety.

Implant Texture
While the majority of breast implants used today for cosmetic breast augmentation have a smooth surface, a textured surface is available with the advantage a lower rates of capsular contracture. However, since the textured surface allows it to “stick” to the surrounding body tissue, they tend to have visible rippling more than smooth surfaced implants.

Implant Shape
Breast implants may be round or anatomical (teardrop-shaped). Your cosmetic surgeon can show you before and after photos to help you choose the one that fits your needs best. For cosmetic augmentation, the breast already has a natural “breast shape,” so a round implant will provide the added volume necessary for the augmentation. For breast reconstruction after mastectomy, the natural “breast shape” has been lost, and therefore an anatomic, teardrop-shaped implant will recreate that shape necessary for reconstruction.

Implant Material
Whether you choose saline-filled or silicone gel-filled implants, the outer shell of the implant is made with a solid form of silicone. Saline-filled and silicone gel implants are the two most common types of implant available, but there a few new types, including cohesive-gel implants designed to retain their shape well. When choosing your filling material, keep in mind your ideal contour, the risks involved, the potential appearance results, and material biocompatibility.

To learn more about your breast enlargement options, and the risks and benefits of each, schedule a complimentary consultation with cosmetic surgeon Dr. Nirav Savalia at Finesse Aesthetic and Plastic Surgery today.

—Lindsey Kesel, Cosmetic Surgery Consultant