A Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in Scottsdale, AZ
Facial Surgery
Facial Plastic Surgery: Browlift I.
Jul 5th
Scottsdale – A forehead lift is a plastic surgery procedure used to enhance the appearance of the forehead, frown lines, and to alter the position of the eyebrows. Patients commonly request rejuvenation of the forehead because aging, gravity and exposure can significantly affect the forehead, creating flabby skin, wrinkles, and droopy eyebrows.
A forehead lift has three positive effects, including a reduction of lines and wrinkles, a tightening effect on loose skin, and a repositioning of the eyebrows into a more youthful position. A forehead lift is also known as browplasty, browpexy, endoscopic or coronal forehead lift. Forehead lift operations have many names, combining descriptive terms, based on the goals or techniques used.
Regardless of which technique is used, the procedure should accomplish the three basic goals described earlier, including a reduction in the number of wrinkles, a tightening of skin laxity, and a restoration of the eyebrows into a more youthful position.
Patents may choose which specific technique appeals to them the most, based on their comfort with the location and length of incisions, amount of downtime, and the desired goals of cosmetic surgery of the face and forehead. In our experience, the top priority for most patients, when seeking forehead lift, is the length and type of incision used.
Stay tuned for more info on browlift on future blogs.
Facelift Scottsdale Techniques.
Jun 27th
Facelift Scottsdale Techniques
Scottsdale, AZ – As an individual ages, the tone of the facial muscles decreases and the facial skin elasticity also diminishes. All these changes, allow wrinkles and lines to become more prominent.
Facial Aging and Plastic Surgery.
These age related events can combine to cause a flabby or droopy appearance in the face and neck. Loose skin, jowls, lines, and wrinkles develop as a natural result of the physical aging of the face. The cheeks may also become flabby resulting in the development of deep laugh lines.
Jowls and Facial Plastic Surgery.
The jowls continue to sag, leading to a double chin. The turning down of the corners of the mouth, the formation of deep folds and wrinkles around the mouth coalesce, resulting in an aged facial appearance.
A Natural Facelift result.
Plastic surgery of the face, or facelift, can reverse many of the changes that occur as a result of natural aging. The goal of facelift is to make patients look younger and healthier. The results of facial plastic surgery should appear as natural as possible.
In my practice, the highest priority is given to restoration of the sagging facial tissue into the normal, youthful anatomic position. This means the surgeon has to manipulate the tissue and pull in a superior direction, and not simply backwards.
We must understand that with aging the face falls down due to gravity. Pulling the saggy face in the correct upward direction typically results in a very natural and youthful appearance.
Phoenix Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery.
Jun 26th
Phoenix Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery
Scottsdale – The eyelids are often the first facial feature to show signs of aging resulting in a sad, tired appearance even in the most energetic individual. Blepharoplasty or cosmetic eyelid surgery, is a plastic surgery procedure designed to rejuvenate the eyelids. Eyelid surgery can return that youthful elegance to your face, making the eyes appear brighter and more refreshed.
Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery – the Upper Eyelids.
To correct sagging and excess skin in the upper eyelids, an incision is made in the natural crease, the excess skin which was carefully marked before surgery, is then removed. We look for excess fat pockets in the upper eyelids which contribute to the a heavy feeling before surgery and also remove these small fat pockets. Upon closure of the incision, a lift and tightening of the remaining eyelid skin is performed.
Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery – the Lower Eyelids.
In the lower eyelids, patients may experience a puffy appearance making you look old and tired. Fine and crinkly skin may also develop from sun exposure over the lower eyelid skin and cheeks. Bags and dark circles under the eyes can increase the aged and tired appearance. Even more advanced signs of aging include droopiness of the lower eyelids in which the white of the eye shows excessively.
Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery: What are the steps in the lower eyelids?
This plastic surgery operation has two major steps. In the first part, these excess fat pockets are treated. Before surgery the three fat pockets are carefully marked. During the operation, these are identified and removed using a gentle surgical technique.
To correct aging in the lower eyelids, a lower eyelid lift operation is carried out. Importantly, the lower eyelid suffer from bulging fat that is normally found inside the orbit. As the fat around the eye bulges forward, bags or dark circles under the eyes are seen. The lower eyelids have a tendency to develop fine crinkly skin, especially when there is excess skin. This excessive skin can also contribute to the formation of dark circles under the eyes. The second part of the lower eyelid lift allows for the accurate removal of the excessive skin in this area.
Preparation and markings for eyelid lift.
Before surgery, the location of the incision is carefully marked and an estimate of the excess skin is performed. After the fat pockets are removed, an estimate of excess skin is carried out again and is usually far more accurate. We prefer the pinch technique which is simple and effective. The estimated excess skin is removed using a gentle surgical technique. As the incision is closed, a lift and tightening effect is created.
When to perform eyelid surgery?
Younger patients with bags under the eyes and little or no excess skin, have the fat is removed using only incisions on the under surface of the eyelids and without skin incisions. A small amount of skin tightening can be created with laser or chemical resurfacing, if needed.
Where should eyelid lift be performed?
Cosmetic eyelid surgery is carried out in a certified plastic surgery center. Patients usually go home to recover, but may choose to stay overnight for greater comfort. Swelling and bruising occur normally after eyelid lift. Any minor bruising can be covered with makeup. Minimal pain is encountered by most patients. Recovery from cosmetic eyelid surgery usually takes about 2 weeks. Patients can return to work about 10 to 14 days after surgery.
Am I a good candidate for cosmetic eyelid surgery?
Jun 17th
Eyelid surgery or blepharoplasty in Arizona
The eyelids are often the first facial feature to show signs of aging resulting in a sad, tired appearance even in the most energetic individual. Cosmetic eyelid surgery or blepharoplasty, is a surgical plastic surgery procedure designed to rejuvenate the eyelids. Eyelid cosmetic surgery can return that youthful elegance to your face, making the eyes appear brighter and more refreshed.
Any one or combination of the following conditions may indicate that you are a good candidate for eyelid surgery:
- Excess skin obscuring the natural fold of the upper eyelids.
- Loose skin hanging down from the upper eyelids, perhaps impairing vision.
- A puffy appearance to the upper eyelids, making the eyes look tired.
- Excess skin and fine, crinkly wrinkles of the lower eyelids.
- Bags and dark circles under the eyes, often with a depression along the bony border of the lower eyelids.
- Droopiness of the lower eyelids, showing white below the iris, the round-eye look.
Additional Resources About Eyelid Surgery
How to choose the right plastic surgeon for you?
Jun 11th
It’s important to find the right plastic surgeon.
Patients often try to figure out best way to choose the plastic surgeon that is right for them. At the AB Guerra Plastic Surgery Center we recommend patients schedule a minimum of three consultations with a board certified plastic surgeon. There is some great information at the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Relevant links and resources in choosing a plastic surgeon.
- How to Choose a Plastic Surgeon
- Find a Plastic Surgeon Locator
- Plastic Surgeon Qualifications to Look For
- Finding an International Plastic Surgeon
Choosing a board certified plastic surgeon in the most important step.
Knowing that your plastic surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery ensures that your doctor has successfully completed rigorous training, examination, and qualifications. You can be sure that your doctor has extensive knowledge and skill to perform the plastic surgery procedure you are looking for.
Nia 24 – Protection For Tough Times…
May 23rd
Scottsdale – This summer in Arizona is going to be a hot one! When exposed to the sun’s UV radiation, our skin can really take a beating. Let me recommend the Nia 24 line-up of products to protect and restore your skin from sun damage.
Use your Nia24 Skin Strengthening Complex Repair Cream in the morning and at night. Apply a dime-size amount on face and neck. Avoid eye contact. Nia24 is known for being just right, not neither heavy nor too light.
Nia 24 is fortified with key ingredients to visibly reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by enhancing the barrier function of your skin, accelerating repair and delivering continual moisturization.
Skin Strengthening
Complex Repair Cream
NIA 24™ Benefits
- Clinically shown to improve skin tone, texture and hyperpigmentation.
- Strengthens the skin barrier.
- Delivers continual moisture.
- Wrinkle treatment that reduces fine lines and wrinkles.
- Improves elasticity for smoother, firmer skin.
- Soothes and protects the skin.
NIA 24™ Key Ingredients
- 5% Pro-Niacin allows for conversion of nicotinic acid into NAD, which plays a central role in energy metabolism. NAD helps repair, promotes skin cell generation and stimulates the release of leptin.
- Green tea, a powerful antioxidant soothes the skin.
- Rosemary has anti-inflammatory properties and provides antioxidant protection from environmental damage.
- Ceramides reinforce the skin barrier to maximize the moisture-holding capacity.
- Evening Primrose Oil instantly soothes and hydrates the skin.
- Wheat Germ Oil hydrates and moisturizes.
- Vitamin A helps to improve elasticity and skin texture.
Nia 24 is available only through your physician’s office. Please contact us at the AB Guerra Plastic Surgery Center for more information.
Successful Scottsdale Plastic Surgery After Major Weight Loss Seminar.
May 20th
Dr. Guerra starting the plastic surgery after major weight loss seminar.
Scottsdale – Dr. Guerra completed a successful Scottsdale plastic surgery after major weight loss seminar in Scottsdale, Arizona. The seminar focused on body contouring after major weight loss including body lift, thigh lift, arm tuck or brachioplasty, breast lift, extended tummy tuck, and face lift cosmetic surgery. Dr. Guerra spent time going over each plastic surgery procedure and went over some actual patient before and after photos.
Scottsdale plastic surgery after major weight loss seminar!
Dr. Guerra and the AB Guerra Plastic Surgery Center enjoy educating the public in cosmetic surgery procedures so they can make an informed decision. Dr. Guerra is a big believer in education and through the seminars, community service and this blog.
Actual patient discussing her experiences with plastic surgery
after major weight loss in Scottsdale.
Interested in attending a plastic surgery seminar in Arizona?
Check out the news and events schedule for more information on the next plastic surgery events in Arizona. If you are interested in learning more about cosmetic surgery procedure in Arizona please contact our office today. These educational seminars are very informative and patients appreciate the group environment in discussing these popular plastic surgery procedures.
5 Quick Facts: Neck LIft.
May 13th
Neck Lift Quick Facts.
Scottsdale – The neck lift is a plastic surgery operation designed to improve the appearance of the neck and jowls. Here are 5 quick facts about neck lift:
- It corrects sagging neck skin and muscles.
- It removes excess skin and fat.
- It restores firmness to create a more youthful and vibrant appearance.
- Surgery takes 1 to 2 hours.
- It can be done in an outpatient surgery center or hospital setting.
Neck lift can also be combined with other cosmetic surgery procedures including facelift, fat grafting, cosmetic eyelid surgery, and dermabrasion.
Another important procedure associated with rejuvenation of the face and neck is placement of cheek and chin implants. Facial implants are useful in restoring volume and shape to the aging face. When patients add more procedures to their plastic surgery operations, it increases the time under anesthesia. We often recommend that, for full face rejuvenation, patients should consider an overnight stay for greater comfort.
Dermabrasion: Achieving Excellent Results.
May 12th
Scottsdale – Last month we introduced a blog post on dermabrasion, a plastic surgery procedure used to improve the appearance of the skin and reduce wrinkles and other signs of aging.
Dermabrasion involves the mechanical removal of the damaged top layer of the facial skin using a high speed rotary wheel. Dermabrasion is performed using a hand-held engine that can reaches a rotation speed of 18,000–35,000 rpm. Rapid planing of the skin is achieved through the combination of this rotation speed, the abrading device, and the pressure applied by the operator. This technique is one of the best wrinkle treatments available. What else do you need to do before having dermabrasion and achieve the best results possible?
Here’s the answer! Pretreat your skin to maximize healing:
- Avoid sun exposure for a minimum of 8 weeks before and after dermabrasion.
- Apply Retin-A 0.05% at night for 2 weeks and then 0.1% for 6 weeks before the procedure. This medication will enhance the ability of the skin to heal – faster and smoother – when compared to no pretreatment.
- Apply Hydroquinone 4%, a skin lightener, for 8 weeks before dermabrasion to avoid blotching after the cosmetic surgery procedure.
- Select a plastic surgeon with significant experience with this procedure.
- Take your medications as prescribed! This will be critical to prevent cold sores or breakouts after the procedure.
- After the procedure, the treated areas are dressed for healing. Be sure you perform your dressing change as instructed.
Spots and wrinkles before Dermabrasion
After Dermabrasion - 3 years
We see in the example above is the results of diamond-fraise dermabrasion with pretreatment of the skin for 8 weeks as prescribed by AB Guerra, MD, a Scottsdale plastic surgeon. There is a drastic reduction in the number of wrinkles around the lips and face. Dermabrasion has a great reputation as a powerful wrinkle treatment. The combination of Hydroquinone and Retin-A has reduced most of the pigments and spots on the patient’s lower face.
Please remember! Throughout the entire process, at our plastic surgery Phoenix office, we will assist you with the most important information about FDA-Approved dermal fillers, Botox, and Dysport, which are also great therapies to reduce wrinkles.
Facial Plastic Surgery: Nose Cartilage.
May 4th
Cartilages of the Nose.
Scottsdale – Why discuss the anatomy of the nose? We do this so that plastic surgery patients interested in nose surgery can understand how the anatomy will change with surgery. Changing the anatomy, then changes the way you look.
In other words, the anatomy is the underlying reason why your nose looks a certain way. Accurate assessment of the nose anatomy allows a plastic surgeon to develop a rational and realistic surgical plan. I recommend you understand this plan as best as possible before undergoing rhinoplasty.
Study the nose diagram on the left.
All the blue areas are the cartilages of the nose. Cartilage is a flexible connective tissue found in many areas in the body including the joints between bones, the rib cage, the ears, and the nose.
The orange part of the diagram represents the nasal bones. The nose is made up of bone and cartilage. In the diagram, we see that nasal cartilage has several locations and different shapes. In the tip of the nose, the most important cartilage is the paired lower lateral cartilages. These cartilages give your nose tip most of its shape.
In the middle part of the nose, we have the upper lateral cartilages. These nose cartilage structures give the middle part of the nose its shape. These are also important in the breathing function your nose provides.
The septal cartilage is the largest cartilage structure in the nose. It divides the nose into two halves and helps to keep the airway open. The septal cartilage can contribute to the hump which is often seen on the top of many patient’s noses.
Knowing this anatomy should help you to understand what steps are involved in most nasal surgery operations. We recommend you review these carefully before consulting with a board certified plastic surgeon about nose surgery.
