About six months ago I asked Dr. Cabezas, our ophthalmologist surgeon, for some Latisse because I, like a million other women, wanted longer and thicker eyelashes. Without hesitation he said no. He said that although the drug had been approved by the FDA, there was the horrible reality that if I accidentally dropped the brush on my skin or got the liquid in my eye consequences of unheard of proportions would ensue.
Recently I read on a plastic surgery blog that Latisse has been admonished for omitting certain details in its information to consumers, specifically, the same concerns that Dr. Cabezas had mentioned. The FDA said that there are omissions in the company's website and marketing materials. The FDA also stated that allergic reactions and possible infections were minimized by the company.
If you want to read the full text, check out
http://www.fda.gov/downloads/Drugs/GuidanceComplianceRegulatoryInformation/EnforcementActivitiesbyFDA/WarningLettersandNoticeofViolationLetterstoPharmaceuticalCompanies/UCM182628.pdf
Although I could have mentioned this before, I chose to silence my selfless quest for thicker and longer eyelashes. With the right mascara, I can pass for Daisy the Cow on Mickey Mouse Clubhouse!
I think I'll stick with the mascara, after all, although it is waterproof, it is very powerful, it makes my lashes long and curly.
I think I learned a valuable lesson. Next time I will tell you all what goes on! That's what this blog is for, right?
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Have you heard of Botax?
It's been going around for awhile, but many people haven't heard about it. Now, let's not talk politics, or which party ideals you represent, let's just get down to the nitty gritty.
The Senate Finance Committee is considering a 10% excise tax on cosmetic surgery deemed unnecessary for medical purposes. Section 213 of the Tax Code is the regulation that will be cited for determining which cosmetic surgery procedures will be taxed; specifically, "any procedure that is directed at improving the patients' appearance and does not meaningfully promote the proper function of the body or prevent or treat illness or disease."
The procedures that will come under fire are obvious, among others, liposuction, facelifts, tummy tucks, rhinoplasty, hair transplants, breast augmentations, teeth whitening and injectable facial fillers. Instead of a $10,000 (US price) boob job, imagine paying about $1,000 more just for the surgery. You still have to pay for the other "amenities" that come along with this surgery.
Now, knowing that in Costa Rica we have just as experienced and wonderful doctors, what's stopping you from getting your surgery with us? Read all about us at our website, http://www.mysecretvacation.biz or email us with questions or concerns. You want to speak to one of our doctors? Let us know, we might be able to get you through just to chat.
The Senate Finance Committee is considering a 10% excise tax on cosmetic surgery deemed unnecessary for medical purposes. Section 213 of the Tax Code is the regulation that will be cited for determining which cosmetic surgery procedures will be taxed; specifically, "any procedure that is directed at improving the patients' appearance and does not meaningfully promote the proper function of the body or prevent or treat illness or disease."
The procedures that will come under fire are obvious, among others, liposuction, facelifts, tummy tucks, rhinoplasty, hair transplants, breast augmentations, teeth whitening and injectable facial fillers. Instead of a $10,000 (US price) boob job, imagine paying about $1,000 more just for the surgery. You still have to pay for the other "amenities" that come along with this surgery.
Now, knowing that in Costa Rica we have just as experienced and wonderful doctors, what's stopping you from getting your surgery with us? Read all about us at our website, http://www.mysecretvacation.biz or email us with questions or concerns. You want to speak to one of our doctors? Let us know, we might be able to get you through just to chat.
Company fined for falsifying comments
Remember the fabulous threads and non-invasive face lifts everyone was talking about some time ago? I said in my last blog that these were not well liked by our staff for several reasons. It seems that the city of New York also didn't like the results or the lack of results tooted by the company Lifestyle Lift.
During the summer, Lifestyle Lift was fined $300K for fake online reviews by alleged patients. The Attorney General of NYC determined that the reviews were actually posted by employees of the company during company time. The tactics constituted deceptive trade practices, false advertising and fraudulent and illegal conduct under the New York and federal consumer protection laws.
“This company’s attempt to generate business by duping consumers was cynical, manipulative, and illegal,” said Attorney General Cuomo. “My office has and will continue to be on the forefront in protecting consumers against emerging fraud and deception, including ‘astroturfing,’ on the Internet.”
This goes to show you once again that everything you read is NOT TRUE. Do your homework before you decide on spending your money, your time and possibly your life. Ask all the questions you have and make sure you determine FOR YOURSELF that the move you will make is the correct one.
Call us at 1-888-912-3556 and inquire as to our procedures. We won't lead you astray. We don't have any reason to!!
During the summer, Lifestyle Lift was fined $300K for fake online reviews by alleged patients. The Attorney General of NYC determined that the reviews were actually posted by employees of the company during company time. The tactics constituted deceptive trade practices, false advertising and fraudulent and illegal conduct under the New York and federal consumer protection laws.
“This company’s attempt to generate business by duping consumers was cynical, manipulative, and illegal,” said Attorney General Cuomo. “My office has and will continue to be on the forefront in protecting consumers against emerging fraud and deception, including ‘astroturfing,’ on the Internet.”
This goes to show you once again that everything you read is NOT TRUE. Do your homework before you decide on spending your money, your time and possibly your life. Ask all the questions you have and make sure you determine FOR YOURSELF that the move you will make is the correct one.
Call us at 1-888-912-3556 and inquire as to our procedures. We won't lead you astray. We don't have any reason to!!
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Is a temporary face-lift worth the cost?
Recently several people have inquired as to the new and often touted thread-lifts, which are the less pricey face-lifts. Although I do not have any medical education, I have access to many medical articles, surveys and websites not accessible to the general public. And of course, the obvious, I ask the doctors on our team.
Based on the information from articles and doctors, what I can say is that the less pricey face-lifts are not recommended. In a recent study in the May/June Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery, all of the participants said that they would not recommend the thread-lifts. Although the cheaper face-lifts run around $1,500-$4,500 (within the United States), they don't compare to the $6,000-$15,000 (U.S. price) face-lifts. On an average of 21 months, the improvements persisted only in the group who had the surgical face-lifts. The participants said that after the swelling subsided, the cheaper face-lifts failed to give them the much anticipated long term results.
The moral of the story: don't sell yourself short. Although you might be paying less for a procedure, you are not necessarily getting the result you expected. Remember, the final look will be worn by you. Do your homework, research the doctors, the clinics and of course the procedure.
As I have often said in other blogs, our prices at My Secret Vacation are not the cheapest you will find in Costa Rica or in other parts of the world, but our doctors are highly acclaimed and their results are often envied. You should not be looking for the cheapest price on the procedure, but for the best results achieved. Any questions? Call us at 1-888-91-BELLO.
Based on the information from articles and doctors, what I can say is that the less pricey face-lifts are not recommended. In a recent study in the May/June Archives of Facial Plastic Surgery, all of the participants said that they would not recommend the thread-lifts. Although the cheaper face-lifts run around $1,500-$4,500 (within the United States), they don't compare to the $6,000-$15,000 (U.S. price) face-lifts. On an average of 21 months, the improvements persisted only in the group who had the surgical face-lifts. The participants said that after the swelling subsided, the cheaper face-lifts failed to give them the much anticipated long term results.
The moral of the story: don't sell yourself short. Although you might be paying less for a procedure, you are not necessarily getting the result you expected. Remember, the final look will be worn by you. Do your homework, research the doctors, the clinics and of course the procedure.
As I have often said in other blogs, our prices at My Secret Vacation are not the cheapest you will find in Costa Rica or in other parts of the world, but our doctors are highly acclaimed and their results are often envied. You should not be looking for the cheapest price on the procedure, but for the best results achieved. Any questions? Call us at 1-888-91-BELLO.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Breast Augmentation: Survey Highlights Recent Trends
All Press Releases for April 27, 2009
Breast Augmentation: Survey Highlights Recent Trends In Today's Most Popular Cosmetic Surgery Procedure
New York, NY (Vocus/PRWEB ) April 27, 2009 -- Despite the highly anticipated Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of silicone gel implants for cosmetic purposes in 2006, saline-filled implants remain the most popular choice for primary breast augmentation, according to a study published in the March/April issue of Aesthetic Surgery Journal.
According to this survey, 60% of surgeons still were using saline implants, and the vast majority of these doctors selected saline implants for 75% to 100% of their patients undergoing first-time breast augmentation. The reported survey found that 80% of responding plastic surgeons had increased their use of silicone gel implants since their reintroduction in 2006. There were a number of reasons for choosing one implant type over another. Patient preference was the most common factor driving the choice of silicone gel implants.
The 27 questions included in the survey were posed to 1746 members of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). ASAPS members were selected for the study population in an attempt to gather data from surgeons who most likely perform the highest volume of primary breast augmentation procedures. Data was gathered over a 3-month period beginning in June 2007.
According to recent data from ASAPS, breast augmentation was the top cosmetic surgical procedure in 2008, overtaking lipoplasty for the first time. In 2008, there were 355,671 breast augmentation procedures, up over 250% from 1997. According to the Society's most recent statistics, 46% of breast augmentations in 2008 (including both primary and implant replacement procedures) were performed using silicone gel implants.
About ASJ
Aesthetic Surgery Journal, owned by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and published by Elsevier Science, is a peer-reviewed international journal focusing on clinical and scientific developments in cosmetic surgery and cosmetic medicine. The Journal has subscribers in more than 80 countries. Besides its affiliation with ASAPS, the leading organization of board-certified plastic surgeons who specialize in aesthetic surgery, ASJ is also the official English-language journal of plastic surgery societies in Brazil, Israel, Mexico, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Costa Rica, Colombia, India and The Netherlands, and it is the official journal of the Rhinoplasty Society. ASJ's Editorial Board includes plastic surgeons and Interspecialty Editors representing anesthesiology, dermatology, ophthalmology, otolaryngology and clinical psychology. For information on the Journal, as well as subscriber and pay-per-view access to the Journal's full text and graphics, go to http://www.aestheticsurgeryjournal.com/.
About ASAPS
The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the leading organization of board-certified plastic surgeons specializing in cosmetic plastic surgery includes Active-Member plastic surgeons certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery or the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, as well as International Active Members who hold equivalent credentials in their own countries. For information, visit http://www.surgery.org/.
American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
Breast Augmentation: Survey Highlights Recent Trends In Today's Most Popular Cosmetic Surgery Procedure
New York, NY (Vocus/PRWEB ) April 27, 2009 -- Despite the highly anticipated Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of silicone gel implants for cosmetic purposes in 2006, saline-filled implants remain the most popular choice for primary breast augmentation, according to a study published in the March/April issue of Aesthetic Surgery Journal.
According to this survey, 60% of surgeons still were using saline implants, and the vast majority of these doctors selected saline implants for 75% to 100% of their patients undergoing first-time breast augmentation. The reported survey found that 80% of responding plastic surgeons had increased their use of silicone gel implants since their reintroduction in 2006. There were a number of reasons for choosing one implant type over another. Patient preference was the most common factor driving the choice of silicone gel implants.
The 27 questions included in the survey were posed to 1746 members of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). ASAPS members were selected for the study population in an attempt to gather data from surgeons who most likely perform the highest volume of primary breast augmentation procedures. Data was gathered over a 3-month period beginning in June 2007.
The survey gathered other practice data on primary breast augmentation including most common incision location, implant size and type, and complications:
- The majority of surgeons (64%) preferred an incision near the breast crease, while 25% preferred an incision around the bottom half of the areola.
- The average implant size reported by 81% of surgeons was 300 to 400 cc (which is approximately a small to a full "C" cup bra).
- Smooth implants, rather than implants with a textured surface, were most often preferred by 92% of respondents because it was the surgeon's preference, less wrinkling, or overall better results for the patient.
- Ninety-six percent of surgeons used round, rather than anatomically-shaped, implants.
- The most common position for implant placement was under the muscle (62% of surgeons).
- The most frequently reported early complication of primary breast augmentation was nipple sensation changes, while capsular contracture (breast firmness caused by scar tissue contracting around the implant) was the most commonly cited delayed complication.
"Although the reintroduction of silicone gel implants was accompanied by expectations of a sharp increase in their use, this survey revealed that, among Aesthetic Society members, saline implants are used more often than silicone gel implants," said Rod Rohrich, MD and Edward Reece, M.D., the study's senior and lead authors. "However, both saline and silicone gel implants are used frequently, safely and reliably."
"The approval of silicone gel implants has expanded the options for women considering breast augmentation," says Alan Gold, MD, president of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS)."Nevertheless, obtaining favorable patient outcomes is usually not dependent on the type of implant as much as the use of patient-appropriate techniques by a qualified and experienced surgeon."According to recent data from ASAPS, breast augmentation was the top cosmetic surgical procedure in 2008, overtaking lipoplasty for the first time. In 2008, there were 355,671 breast augmentation procedures, up over 250% from 1997. According to the Society's most recent statistics, 46% of breast augmentations in 2008 (including both primary and implant replacement procedures) were performed using silicone gel implants.
About ASJ
Aesthetic Surgery Journal, owned by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and published by Elsevier Science, is a peer-reviewed international journal focusing on clinical and scientific developments in cosmetic surgery and cosmetic medicine. The Journal has subscribers in more than 80 countries. Besides its affiliation with ASAPS, the leading organization of board-certified plastic surgeons who specialize in aesthetic surgery, ASJ is also the official English-language journal of plastic surgery societies in Brazil, Israel, Mexico, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Costa Rica, Colombia, India and The Netherlands, and it is the official journal of the Rhinoplasty Society. ASJ's Editorial Board includes plastic surgeons and Interspecialty Editors representing anesthesiology, dermatology, ophthalmology, otolaryngology and clinical psychology. For information on the Journal, as well as subscriber and pay-per-view access to the Journal's full text and graphics, go to http://www.aestheticsurgeryjournal.com/.
About ASAPS
The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the leading organization of board-certified plastic surgeons specializing in cosmetic plastic surgery includes Active-Member plastic surgeons certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery or the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, as well as International Active Members who hold equivalent credentials in their own countries. For information, visit http://www.surgery.org/.
American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Herbal supplements before surgery
Recently I saw a report in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal claims that more than two fifths of cosmetic surgery patients take some form of herbal supplement in the sometime before their operation. Experts are concerned that some supplements can be harmful around the time of surgery and may also interact with conventional medicines. Dr Alan Gold, president of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (Asaps), said that despite the well-documented side-effects of some herbal supplements, "many patients do not fully appreciate the importance of discontinuing these treatments before surgery". While some herbal supplements may provide benefits during recovery, commonly used herbal medications such as ginkgo biloba, ginseng, garlic, echinacea, valerian root and others can have deleterious effects when combined with surgery.
This is pretty scary if you ask me. The reason? Well, most of us think that we don't have to inform our doctor regarding the use of herbal supplements. Not so!! Dr. Gold added: "Stopping certain herbal supplements prior to surgery is just as critical as stopping aspirin, ibuprofen and many other common drugs."
As many as 70% of patients do not disclose the use of alternative medications to their surgeon or conventional health care provider, sometimes because they feel these physicians have little knowledge or interest in naturopathic medicine, or they feel physicians may disapprove of such treatments. Some patients simply fail to recognize the relevance of supplement usage to their current medical or surgical care. Patients need to be aware that full disclosure of all medications - both those that are prescribed and those that are obtained over-the-counter - is extremely important to their health and safety.
So please, if you do take herbal supplements, be sure to inform your doctor. In today's world we are willing to try anything that will help us overcome our infirmities. Doctors are no longer surprised to find out that their patients are taking natural medicines and/or herbal supplements. So go ahead, disclose everything!!
Herbal Medications to Avoid Within 2 Weeks of Surgery
--Gingko Biloba--Echinacea--Garlic--Goldenseal--Ginseng--Licorice--Fish oils (omega-3 fatty acids)--St. John's Wort--Dong Quai--Kava--Feverfew--Valerian Root--Ephedra
This is pretty scary if you ask me. The reason? Well, most of us think that we don't have to inform our doctor regarding the use of herbal supplements. Not so!! Dr. Gold added: "Stopping certain herbal supplements prior to surgery is just as critical as stopping aspirin, ibuprofen and many other common drugs."
As many as 70% of patients do not disclose the use of alternative medications to their surgeon or conventional health care provider, sometimes because they feel these physicians have little knowledge or interest in naturopathic medicine, or they feel physicians may disapprove of such treatments. Some patients simply fail to recognize the relevance of supplement usage to their current medical or surgical care. Patients need to be aware that full disclosure of all medications - both those that are prescribed and those that are obtained over-the-counter - is extremely important to their health and safety.
So please, if you do take herbal supplements, be sure to inform your doctor. In today's world we are willing to try anything that will help us overcome our infirmities. Doctors are no longer surprised to find out that their patients are taking natural medicines and/or herbal supplements. So go ahead, disclose everything!!
Herbal Medications to Avoid Within 2 Weeks of Surgery
--Gingko Biloba--Echinacea--Garlic--Goldenseal--Ginseng--Licorice--Fish oils (omega-3 fatty acids)--St. John's Wort--Dong Quai--Kava--Feverfew--Valerian Root--Ephedra
WELCOME BACK!!
The economy sure has gotten to us all hasn't it? All of us are waiting for our share of the "stimulus package". So, when you receive your share, remember us at MY SECRET VACATION for your well deserved time to regroup.
Now, for a little information...Since November 2008, many clinics have closed its doors to clients not only in the U.S. but throughout the world.
The closure of clinics is not due to the lack of interest in cosmetic fixer-uppers, but because of a lack of clients. Now is the time to remember the meaning of the latin phrase CAVEAT EMPTOR.
The potential client needs to be aware of the "sales" that are prevalent around the country. Although you might find a "good price" at the initiation of your research, your final price might not be what you bargained for. There have been many cases of individuals that have fatally suffered from "cheap" plastic surgery. There have been just as many cases of those that have suffered needlessly because they opted for less expensive surgery.
Our prices might not be the "cheapest" you will find, but rest assured that the services we provide are the finest available.
We've been able to maintain our prices because of the way our business is set up. Our job is to market the doctors in our system as well as to market the recovery centers. We don't add to the prices because of the situation in the U.S. The doctors give us a price and that is what is told to you when you call us for quotes.
So take your time. An informed customer is a great customer. Any questions you might have, email us or call us at info@mysecretvacation.biz/info@mysecretvacation.com or 1-888-91-BELLO.
Now, for a little information...Since November 2008, many clinics have closed its doors to clients not only in the U.S. but throughout the world.
The closure of clinics is not due to the lack of interest in cosmetic fixer-uppers, but because of a lack of clients. Now is the time to remember the meaning of the latin phrase CAVEAT EMPTOR.
The potential client needs to be aware of the "sales" that are prevalent around the country. Although you might find a "good price" at the initiation of your research, your final price might not be what you bargained for. There have been many cases of individuals that have fatally suffered from "cheap" plastic surgery. There have been just as many cases of those that have suffered needlessly because they opted for less expensive surgery.
Our prices might not be the "cheapest" you will find, but rest assured that the services we provide are the finest available.
We've been able to maintain our prices because of the way our business is set up. Our job is to market the doctors in our system as well as to market the recovery centers. We don't add to the prices because of the situation in the U.S. The doctors give us a price and that is what is told to you when you call us for quotes.
So take your time. An informed customer is a great customer. Any questions you might have, email us or call us at info@mysecretvacation.biz/info@mysecretvacation.com or 1-888-91-BELLO.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Tips When Choosing a Country for Cosmetic Surgery
I'm glad there is a health expert out there saying the same thing as I...
Posted by: healthexpert4u on: November 6, 2008
In: Health Expert Info
In the past two decades, there has been a complete turnaround in the number of people globally who seek and undergo cosmetic surgery. The fact that more people aim to alter, modify and improve physical and aesthetic appearance is very obvious and is simply uncontested. However, there has been a drastic change in the cosmetic surgery sector. Globally, many people go abroad to undergo different cosmetic procedures.
While in the past, cosmetic and plastic surgery were usually preferred to be conducted at developed and sophisticated facilities in the United States and in other first-world countries, nowadays, the emergence of medical tourism has made going to other countries a viable and reasonable option. Despite the fact that quality of such medical procedures has not deteriorated in developed countries, many people now prefer to ‘be done’ elsewhere.
The dominating trend in the sector for global cosmetic surgery is governed by affordability. Prices abroad of common and special aesthetic surgical procedures, like liposuction, breast augmentation, face lift, tummy-tuck, rhinoplasty and laser hair removal, are drastically lesser compared to costs of having such procedures done in the US or in UK, for example. Further, aggressive marketing strategies implemented by offshore plastic surgeons and their clinics are persuading more people to fly to other countries for any cosmetic operations.
Medical tourism is providing more people chances to finally take the cosmetic surgery procedure they need and want. The growing marketplace abroad for such medical procedures is further lowering consumers’ expenses. As for safety, much to rave about is the fact that most plastic surgeons and professional staff in clinics abroad have also received medical education and training in Europe or in the US. Almost all are also striving to secure international accreditation and certification to assure potential patients of their safety, reliability and standard quality of services.
When choosing a country for plastic surgery, it is important to focus on overall safety. Many countries, especially in the third world, are offering the lowest costs. Do your research and determine the safety and satisfaction rate in such clinics. If you have colleagues or friends who have undergone cosmetic surgery abroad, you might ask them advices or recommendations. While it is your goal to save on costs, remember not to miss on making sure your overall safety is not compromised. Here are some additional guidelines.
* Choose cosmetic clinics in nations near your home country. Patients in the American continents could travel to Mexico, Costa Rica, Panama and Brazil. The Asia Pacific region has the most aggressive and less costly plastic surgery offerings in Thailand, the Philippines, China, India and Malaysia. In Europe, Turkey, Ukraine and Malta have good, reputable and very cheap cosmetic surgery clinics.
* Plan well and ahead of schedule. In the United States and UK, it may take months before cosmetic surgery procedures push through, despite high costs. In other countries, scheduling can be finalized within just days. Just make sure you do not travel during peak tourist seasons to avoid travel hassles. Allot a few days for recovery after the face surgery, tummy-tuck, breast augmentation or rhinoplasty. Traveling by air after surgical procedures is not advised as doing so may lead to pulmonary embolisms or blood-clot formations. Take several days to rest, relax and recover.
* Many medical travel tours even offer vacation packages. After your surgical operation, there will be several additional days of vacation at beaches and tourist sites, included in package deals. Just be careful not to enjoy too much as it may cause bleeding and infection to the wound. Just relax and enjoy your getaway.
* Do a simple research about the overall security and consumer protection legislations in the country of your choice. Is the country notorious for not imposing laws that guarantee patients’ and consumers’ overall safety and protection? If the country could not offer safety blankets to its citizens, at least when it comes to cosmetic surgery procedures, do not expect it to extend such provisions to traveling patients and medical tourists.
Octavio Herrera G.
Entrepreneur and Internet Researcher.
Specializing in Cosmetic Surgery Tourism, focusing on Latin America
Posted by: healthexpert4u on: November 6, 2008
In: Health Expert Info
In the past two decades, there has been a complete turnaround in the number of people globally who seek and undergo cosmetic surgery. The fact that more people aim to alter, modify and improve physical and aesthetic appearance is very obvious and is simply uncontested. However, there has been a drastic change in the cosmetic surgery sector. Globally, many people go abroad to undergo different cosmetic procedures.
While in the past, cosmetic and plastic surgery were usually preferred to be conducted at developed and sophisticated facilities in the United States and in other first-world countries, nowadays, the emergence of medical tourism has made going to other countries a viable and reasonable option. Despite the fact that quality of such medical procedures has not deteriorated in developed countries, many people now prefer to ‘be done’ elsewhere.
The dominating trend in the sector for global cosmetic surgery is governed by affordability. Prices abroad of common and special aesthetic surgical procedures, like liposuction, breast augmentation, face lift, tummy-tuck, rhinoplasty and laser hair removal, are drastically lesser compared to costs of having such procedures done in the US or in UK, for example. Further, aggressive marketing strategies implemented by offshore plastic surgeons and their clinics are persuading more people to fly to other countries for any cosmetic operations.
Medical tourism is providing more people chances to finally take the cosmetic surgery procedure they need and want. The growing marketplace abroad for such medical procedures is further lowering consumers’ expenses. As for safety, much to rave about is the fact that most plastic surgeons and professional staff in clinics abroad have also received medical education and training in Europe or in the US. Almost all are also striving to secure international accreditation and certification to assure potential patients of their safety, reliability and standard quality of services.
When choosing a country for plastic surgery, it is important to focus on overall safety. Many countries, especially in the third world, are offering the lowest costs. Do your research and determine the safety and satisfaction rate in such clinics. If you have colleagues or friends who have undergone cosmetic surgery abroad, you might ask them advices or recommendations. While it is your goal to save on costs, remember not to miss on making sure your overall safety is not compromised. Here are some additional guidelines.
* Choose cosmetic clinics in nations near your home country. Patients in the American continents could travel to Mexico, Costa Rica, Panama and Brazil. The Asia Pacific region has the most aggressive and less costly plastic surgery offerings in Thailand, the Philippines, China, India and Malaysia. In Europe, Turkey, Ukraine and Malta have good, reputable and very cheap cosmetic surgery clinics.
* Plan well and ahead of schedule. In the United States and UK, it may take months before cosmetic surgery procedures push through, despite high costs. In other countries, scheduling can be finalized within just days. Just make sure you do not travel during peak tourist seasons to avoid travel hassles. Allot a few days for recovery after the face surgery, tummy-tuck, breast augmentation or rhinoplasty. Traveling by air after surgical procedures is not advised as doing so may lead to pulmonary embolisms or blood-clot formations. Take several days to rest, relax and recover.
* Many medical travel tours even offer vacation packages. After your surgical operation, there will be several additional days of vacation at beaches and tourist sites, included in package deals. Just be careful not to enjoy too much as it may cause bleeding and infection to the wound. Just relax and enjoy your getaway.
* Do a simple research about the overall security and consumer protection legislations in the country of your choice. Is the country notorious for not imposing laws that guarantee patients’ and consumers’ overall safety and protection? If the country could not offer safety blankets to its citizens, at least when it comes to cosmetic surgery procedures, do not expect it to extend such provisions to traveling patients and medical tourists.
Octavio Herrera G.
Entrepreneur and Internet Researcher.
Specializing in Cosmetic Surgery Tourism, focusing on Latin America
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Liposuction or liposculpture?
I recently spoke to our general plastic surgeon and asked him about the new Smartlipo technique. He made clear that the new technique is growing fans quickly. Below is some information he gave.
The laser-based fat-removal is quickly becoming a popular liposuction alternative for women of all ages particularly for women under the age of 35. Smartlipo™ MPX offers skin-firming advantages and a quick recovery that is appealing to many younger women who want more subtle contouring.
Smartlipo MPX's two separate laser frequencies were originally developed to melt fat more efficiently and help minimize the bleeding and bruising that create post-surgical swelling and soreness. Indirectly the combined laser frequencies can also induce "collagen remodeling," a process that stimulates the body to change the way it structures and produces the underlying firming proteins in the skin.
Another added benefit of Smartlipo is the quicker recovery time compared to traditional liposuction. This is an advantage for busy younger women leading on-the-go lifestyles. Patients can be back on their feet in just a couple of days. Smartlipo can actually create a better result than traditional methods for smaller pockets of fat or delicate treatment areas such as the face and chin.
Did this peak your curiosity? Send us an email and we'll have Dr. Jorge Mora respond.
info@mysecretvacation.biz
The laser-based fat-removal is quickly becoming a popular liposuction alternative for women of all ages particularly for women under the age of 35. Smartlipo™ MPX offers skin-firming advantages and a quick recovery that is appealing to many younger women who want more subtle contouring.
Smartlipo MPX's two separate laser frequencies were originally developed to melt fat more efficiently and help minimize the bleeding and bruising that create post-surgical swelling and soreness. Indirectly the combined laser frequencies can also induce "collagen remodeling," a process that stimulates the body to change the way it structures and produces the underlying firming proteins in the skin.
Another added benefit of Smartlipo is the quicker recovery time compared to traditional liposuction. This is an advantage for busy younger women leading on-the-go lifestyles. Patients can be back on their feet in just a couple of days. Smartlipo can actually create a better result than traditional methods for smaller pockets of fat or delicate treatment areas such as the face and chin.
Did this peak your curiosity? Send us an email and we'll have Dr. Jorge Mora respond.
info@mysecretvacation.biz
Friday, October 17, 2008
Recent Article in another Blog
I saw this article this morning, Friday, October 17, 2008 and thought it was great general information. Our specialists are not American certified but they are certified by the Medical College of Costa Rica and other countries. You can definitely ask them for their creditentials once you are in their office or ask us and we will send you copies of their documents.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Cosmetic Surgery - What You Should Know
window.google_render_ad();
Cosmetic surgery is any surgical procedure that is designed to enhance your physical appearance. Unless the cosmetic surgery is required as the result of an accident, injury, or birth defect, the chances are the procedure will not be covered by your insurance.
Although cosmetic surgery may change your appearance and give you the confidence to face the world with a whole new attitude, it doesn't change who you "really" are inside. If you were lazy and unmotivated before your new nose, you're likely to still be lazy and unmotivated after.
Most Common Cosmetic Surgery Procedures
The most common cosmetic surgery procedures are face lifts, liposuction, breast enhancement, "nose jobs" and "tummy tucks" but this is by no means the extent of what a cosmetic surgeon can do for you.
Cosmetic surgery is performed by a doctor who has undergone specialized training in either plastic or cosmetic surgery. When choosing a doctor always make sure that they have been certified by either the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) or the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS). They should have the certification document in plain view in their office.
You'll want to ask the following questions when you are interviewing the doctor:
How often have you done this procedure?
How long have you been doing this procedure?
What are the best and worst case results that I can expect from this procedure?
What are the potential risks or complications of this procedure?
What do I need to do to prepare myself for this procedure?
How much time will I have to lose from work or normal social activity?
How much pain or discomfort is associated with this procedure?
How much will this procedure cost?
Will I require any follow-up treatment and is it included in the price?
Will I require any prescription drugs?
Will my insurance cover all or part of the costs?
Most cosmetic surgery doctors will have a book of "Before and After" pictures that have been taken of patients who have given their permission to be included in the book. Not only should you ask to see the book, but also ask if you can receive a discount by agreeing to have your pictures added.
What Is Your Reason?
One of the worst reasons for having a cosmetic surgery procedure performed is because "everyone else is doing it". What may be right for one of your friends may not be right for you. That's why it is important to have a frank discussion with your doctor before having any procedure done.
Tell your doctor what your expectations are and then listen very closely to the answer. If you think that having a face lift is going to get you a better job, then you may need to reconsider your thinking. Most people's lives do not change radically after cosmetic surgery is performed.
Realistic Expectations
In fact, there are often unexpected results that accompany cosmetic surgery. You may wonder why someone with as much money as Barbara Streisand has never had her nose "fixed". When she was younger her doctor told her that changing the shape of her nose would alter her voice! That was a risk that Barbara was not willing to take.
Cosmetic surgery should not be rushed into. Take your time, shop around for the best doctor and make sure that you have a solid grasp on your expectations. The chances are you will have to live with the results of the procedure for the rest of your life.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Cosmetic Surgery - What You Should Know
window.google_render_ad();
Cosmetic surgery is any surgical procedure that is designed to enhance your physical appearance. Unless the cosmetic surgery is required as the result of an accident, injury, or birth defect, the chances are the procedure will not be covered by your insurance.
Although cosmetic surgery may change your appearance and give you the confidence to face the world with a whole new attitude, it doesn't change who you "really" are inside. If you were lazy and unmotivated before your new nose, you're likely to still be lazy and unmotivated after.
Most Common Cosmetic Surgery Procedures
The most common cosmetic surgery procedures are face lifts, liposuction, breast enhancement, "nose jobs" and "tummy tucks" but this is by no means the extent of what a cosmetic surgeon can do for you.
Cosmetic surgery is performed by a doctor who has undergone specialized training in either plastic or cosmetic surgery. When choosing a doctor always make sure that they have been certified by either the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) or the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS). They should have the certification document in plain view in their office.
You'll want to ask the following questions when you are interviewing the doctor:
How often have you done this procedure?
How long have you been doing this procedure?
What are the best and worst case results that I can expect from this procedure?
What are the potential risks or complications of this procedure?
What do I need to do to prepare myself for this procedure?
How much time will I have to lose from work or normal social activity?
How much pain or discomfort is associated with this procedure?
How much will this procedure cost?
Will I require any follow-up treatment and is it included in the price?
Will I require any prescription drugs?
Will my insurance cover all or part of the costs?
Most cosmetic surgery doctors will have a book of "Before and After" pictures that have been taken of patients who have given their permission to be included in the book. Not only should you ask to see the book, but also ask if you can receive a discount by agreeing to have your pictures added.
What Is Your Reason?
One of the worst reasons for having a cosmetic surgery procedure performed is because "everyone else is doing it". What may be right for one of your friends may not be right for you. That's why it is important to have a frank discussion with your doctor before having any procedure done.
Tell your doctor what your expectations are and then listen very closely to the answer. If you think that having a face lift is going to get you a better job, then you may need to reconsider your thinking. Most people's lives do not change radically after cosmetic surgery is performed.
Realistic Expectations
In fact, there are often unexpected results that accompany cosmetic surgery. You may wonder why someone with as much money as Barbara Streisand has never had her nose "fixed". When she was younger her doctor told her that changing the shape of her nose would alter her voice! That was a risk that Barbara was not willing to take.
Cosmetic surgery should not be rushed into. Take your time, shop around for the best doctor and make sure that you have a solid grasp on your expectations. The chances are you will have to live with the results of the procedure for the rest of your life.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Beauty Is Exactly As You See It
