Philippine Plastic Surgeon Blog

Plastic Surgery 101

GETTING YOUR OWN “DELIGHTFUL DEFORMITY”

May 8

Posted by digitalmoz in Cosmetic Surgery Blogs | No Comments

“The greatest benefit from a dimple creation procedure is the boost in self-esteem and self-confidence that a patient gets, once he or she is able to flash a winning, bedimpled smile,” said Dr. Magallona.

Taken from The Philippine Guide to Aesthetic Reinvention: The New You Volume 3 Issue10 page 27

On the 10th Issue of the 3rd Volume The Philippine Guide to Aesthetic Reinvention: The New You, Doc Mags was among the top plastic surgeons interviewed by the magazine. He talked about the dimple creation surgery, its risks and the likely candidates for the operation. For those curious about this surgery, here’s a link to the article entitled Getting Your Own “Delightful Deformity”.

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Five Pointers for Breast Augmentation Patients

Mar 8

Posted by digitalmoz in Cosmetic Surgery Facts | No Comments

consultation-with-plastic-surgeonBreast augmentation is a procedure done to enhance the appearance of the breasts. It should not be decided on an impulse. This is a major cosmetic surgery operations and the risks are very real so it is important to do your own research so that you will be mentally, emotionally and physically prepared once your big day comes.

The process includes looking for a board-certified plastic surgeon in the Philippines, choosing the right shape, size and implant type, etc. There are also financial considerations to look into. This might be too much but this has to be done so that you will be happy with your results.

For breast augmentation patients, here are five pointers that you should think about.

Implants Do Not Last a Lifetime

Here’s the truth: the life span of breast implants vary from person to person. Additional surgeries are common to correct or modify the shape or size of your breasts; so before doing anything, ask your plastic surgeon if you need to pay for additional surgery or not. Also, the longer that a woman has the same implants, the more she is at risk to develop complications.

Always Do Your Research

Treat your breast augmentation procedure in the Philippines as a business venture; and what is the first thing that you do when you want to start a business? Make a study and do your research. This does not only mean finding a board-certified plastic surgeon but as well as the characteristics of the implants. Take a look at the indications for use, risks, warnings, precautions, etc. because who knows, you might be allergic to it.

Always Talk To Your Plastic Surgeon

Your surgeon is your tour guide the whole time that you are going through this journey so it is imperative that you must have constant and open communication with him. He should tell you the risks, recovery practices after the procedure or preparations before the big day. Here’s a hint: to get the best results, you two should always be on the same page and have realistic outcome.

Learn About the Long Term Risks

We cannot stress enough the complications associated with breast augmentation so it is important that you understand them before pursuing with the procedure. According to a recent study, some women who had breast augmentation have experienced lactation difficulties or reproductive problems but there is no evidence to support these claims.

Monitoring is Imperative

Once the procedure is done, it does not mean that the communication between you and your surgeon is over. You should keep a close relationship with him so that he can assist you promptly if ever you notice unusual signs or symptoms during postoperative period. Self-monitoring includes self breast exams or mammograms. For women who had silicone implants, MRI screenings are necessary to detect silent ruptures three years after their surgery and every two years after that.

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Breast Augmentation 2013: The Latest Trend

Mar 1

Posted by digitalmoz in Cosmetic Surgery Facts | No Comments

ideal-breast-implantsIn the last 20 years, we only know about saline and silicone implants but according to the January 2013 issue of Marie Claire US, the latest trend in breast augmentation procedure involves your own body fat and cells. This is already one of the most sought-after procedures in Europe and Asia and with the rise of A-list celebrities “discreetly endorsing” this trend, it has become one of the most in-demand procedure asked by the ordinary Jane.

This only means two things: with further and long term testing, it will prove to have lower risk, yet an effective breast augmentation option. This process is done by using the individual’s own fat as implant material. Together with liposuction, which harvests the fat and stem cells which is thus injected to the breast, the stem cells are sometimes processed first to increase concentration; after which, it is now inserted into the breasts.

Unlike saline and silicone breast implants, one its best benefit is that it is natural. It also do not have scarring and best of all, the breast look and feel like regular breasts. The disadvantage of this kind of procedure is the price because it is more expensive and is limited to just one cup size (depending on hw much stem cell or fat is harvested from your body).

Aside from these procedures, there are other upcoming techniques that might pick up this year. Plastic surgeons are looking into custom-shaped and custom-fitted accessories. The IDEAL implant is something to look forward too as well. This one is composed of multiple and smaller saline implants that are pieced together. Many cosmetic surgeons have agreed that it is more natural aesthetically than the customary saline implants.

Breast augmentation in the Philippines may be far from these procedures but as we always are, we are never too far from being in the latest trend in everything—may it be fashion, food and even plastic surgery—because that’s always how the Philippines have been.

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Couple’s Ways to Get Rid of Snoring

Oct 10

Posted by digitalmoz in Beauty and Health Tips | No Comments

Sleeping soundly does not mean that you’re always in the pink of health. A current study estimated that 45% of men and 30% of women snore on a regular basis. It is said that frequent alcohol drinking, smoking, asthmatic attacks and blockage of passageways brought by colds or sinuses are the most common causes of snoring.

On the other hand, many experts affirm that snoring hugely affect marital relationships. For an instance, the other half that is diagnosed to have this particular sleeping disorder has higher chances of getting marriage misunderstandings because his / her partner tries to sleep in the other room. Moreover, snoring is also viewed as a negative aspect in intimacy because it decreases the couple’s bed time moments together.

Surgical procedure is now been considered as one of the solutions to stop this disorder. However, this is rarely used and only considered in cases of very severe snoring when other treatments have failed.

Plastic surgeons in the Philippines have the following procedure to correct this sleeping abnormality:

Remove excess soft tissue from the throat to widen the upper airway. This may involve removing the tonsils and adenoids and other tissues in the back of the throat (uvulopalatopharyngoplasty).

Correct an abnormally shaped wall (septum) between the nostrils or remove nasal polyps that block airflow through the nose.

Change the position of the bony structures in the upper airway, allowing air to flow more freely, especially during sleep. More than one surgery may be needed to make these changes.

Implant plastic cylinders in the soft palate to stiffen it to prevent it from vibrating. This can reduce snoring and the daytime sleepiness it causes.

However, as mentioned, these procedures are for severe cases. So if your partner’s snoring habit is starting to become more often, it’s time to get rid of this problem before it turns worse. Below are proven safe, practical and innovative ways to save your marital relationship as you help your partner sleep soundly.

Take Up Singing Lessons

It’s no joke. Singing contemporary ballads can mean serenading your husband or wife as it also stretches your throat muscles to reduce irritating night time vibrations that cause the noise.

Have an intimate Dinner Schedule

Encourage a weekly couple’s bonding in a relaxing venue. Avoid restaurants and bars that allow diners to smoke. Second-hand smoke is very harmful since it causes nasal and lung congestion which often leads to snoring.

Wear a Snore Stopper Bracelet for Couples

Along with wedding rings, unisex watches and couple T-shirts comes the innovative Snore Stopper Bracelet as seen at Groupon Philippines. It is a multipurpose accessory that detects snoring from your partner, all you need to do is wear it on the wrist while sleeping and it will deliver pulses to stop the user from snoring. You can have this item as a shopping coupon only from Groupon. A more affordable and convenient way to acquire this innovative snore stopper.

Engage on a Physical Bonding Together

Whether both of you needs to lose weight or aging calls for a healthy lifestyle, physical activities like running, swimming, biking and going to the gym helps in clearing out blocked narrow airways that affects your breathing pattern while fast asleep.

Talk openly with your Partner who snores

If you truly love your better half, it is also assumed that you’re willing to accept his / her imperfections. Honestly telling your partner that he / she snores can mean that you’re helping to resolve whatever conflicts it can bring to your relationship as a couple. Taking some time to talk to him / her privately will make both of you comfortable with each other.

Couples don’t have to worry since there are a lot of instant remedies and cure for snoring.  If you really want to eliminate the habit, pursue hard not only to please your partner but also to take charge of your health and wellness.

More than physical intimacy, connection of your intertwined souls is the most important aspect of long lasting relationship. So come on! Don’t be shy to gently whisper to your partner’s ear the next time you hear him snore and let’s try to find out what will happens next. Good luck!

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The Etiquette of Plastic Surgery

Oct 3

Posted by digitalmoz in Beauty and Health Tips, Uncategorized | No Comments

According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, in the United States alone, there were over 9 million surgical and non-surgical procedures done in 2011. So it is no wonder why there are lots of people who turn to plastic surgery to answer their beauty and health woes. But, just like any other trend, it also has its own set of rule book.

If you know someone (may it be your friend or acquaintance) who had undergone plastic surgery, it is considered impolite to directly ask him/her about it. A sensitive topic such as plastic surgery makes it awkward for someone who had it to talk about.

Plastic surgery has its own set of rules to follow. Photo from Google.

Etiquette guru Mary Mitchell told the Contra Costa Times on how and what to say to friends, individuals or colleagues who have gone under plastic surgery. “When we change the way we look, it almost automatically changes the way others react to us,” Mitchell said.

“It’s incredibly rude to come out and ask about it. Wait for them to tell you,” she added. And if it is really obvious, “give the person an opening, like, ‘Gee, you look great. What’s your secret?’ And say that without sarcasm. Or if you know already that the person was going to have a surgery, you can ask them the question, “how are you feeling?”

Mitchell also mentioned that many people actually want to talk about it. “People told me it was liberating to hear somebody admit to having work done and that it’s OK,” she said. “A lot of people don’t want anybody to know, but telling someone can actually help.”

Since plastic surgery is a major operation and can be traumatic for some, you would want somebody to talk to, a support system especially if it is an extreme procedure. It takes a big toll on your physical, mental and emotional state so it is better to rely on trusted friends and family members for comfort and support.

Dr. Edwin Paul V. Magallona of the Philippine Plastic Surgeon has a witty suggestion for someone who had gone under the knife and is not ready yet for the big reveal. “If you want to disguise your procedure, let’s say facial implants, which are most probably going to be very evident, you might want to consider changing your hair color or wardrobe choices  because most probably, their reaction is going to be: You look great, nice hairstyle.”

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A Quick Overview of the Arm Lift Surgery

Sep 27

Posted by digitalmoz in Cosmetic Surgery Blogs, Uncategorized | No Comments

Brachioplasty, or more popularly known as arm lift surgery is a “cosmetic procedure for those who have excess fat and skin beneath their upper arms.” Saggy and fatty arms have been the dilemma of countless women around the world. This happens for many reasons including diet, inherited propensities or simply, just growing old.

But if you want to avoid having flabby arms when you get old, diet and exercise should help you get your desired arm physique; but this is not always the case. This is where the arm lift surgery answers your problem.

This procedure will give you a noticeable and effective tightening and lifting in your arm and can even help in restoring your overall arm appearance.

Who Are Good Candidates

The good candidates for arm surgery procedure are those who have healthy weight, which does not change greatly, they should not have major underlying conditions and should not be a smoker. In preparing for this procedure, a person interested should stop taking herbal dietary supplements, aspirin, and anti-inflammatory medications because it can be a great source of blood loss during and after the procedure.

The Procedure

Brachioplasty is usually performed with other plastic surgery procedures like tummy tuck, breast augmentation and thigh lift. During the procedure, the patient is first placed under general anesthesia and generally, the procedure takes up to two hours. Your board-certified plastic surgeon then makes an incision on the underside of the arm—from armpit to the elbow. Any excess fats may be removed using lipoplasty. After that, the surplus skin is cut down and the remaining skin will be tightened and finally sutured firmly into place.

Benefits of the Arm Lift Procedure

The most immediate effect of brachioplasty is the improved appearance of your arms. Saggy and flabby arms are eliminated and weight is reduced. The patient will now be able to move the arms much better. Patients also enjoy heightened sense of self-esteem and confidence. Final results only begin to show three to six months after the procedure. But the results last for a very, very long time but the natural aging process will continue to affect the whole body, including your arms. As a patient, you should be prepared for the continued loss of elasticity of your skin in the arm area.

Risks Involved

This is still a plastic surgery procedure so it still has its risks. The most common ones are reaction to anesthesia, excessive bleeding, blood clot, infection and possible numbness. This is generally a safe procedure but if you want to have a smooth and fast recovery period, consult your plastic surgeon about how to prepare properly for the procedure.

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Dos and Don’ts after Rhinoplasty

Sep 21

Posted by Dr. Edwin Paul Magallona in Cosmetic Surgery Blogs, Uncategorized | No Comments

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, rhinoplasty is one of the most popular plastic surgeries in US. During the procedure, the surgeon makes incisions to access the bones and cartilages that support the nose. Because the results are remarkable and affordable for many people, it has become one of the most lucrative plastic surgery procedures not just in America but in the Philippines as well.

The key to successful rhinoplasty procedure is having a realistic goal, knowing how to achieve it and being aware of the pre and post operative care. The last may be one of the most overlooked aspects of consultation that is why; a patient must always ask his plastic surgeon about the proper post-operative care after his/her procedure.

This article will show you how to deal with your post rhinoplasty operation. Follow these tips religiously to achieve faster healing.

Follow your plastic surgeon's advice for faster recovery after your rhinoplasty procedure. Photo from Google.

Swelling

Oftentimes, swelling is worse on the first or second day after you leave the hospital and it may become more pronounced along the jaw line. Do these suggestions to have a normal healing: stay up as much as possible after you leave the hospital; this includes walking around, standing and sitting. Avoid bending over or heavy lifting, avoid hitting or bumping your new nose, sleep with your head elevated, avoid forcibly attempting to pull air through the nose, sexual intercourse and lastly, do not tweeze your eyebrows for a week.

Pain

Rhinoplasty usually has little pain but once in a while, you may experience deep and bruised sensations as a result of the swelling that occurs. This is usually worse at night and the prescribed drugs to lessen the pain often cause side effects which include light-headedness—this makes recovery more tedious. To appease this, try applying cold compress before resorting to stronger drugs. If this proves to be futile, your plastic surgeon will prescribe you codeine.

Nose Cleaning

Do not at all blow your nose for ten days; after which, blow through both sides at once. You can clean the outside of your nose and upper lip with Q-tips moistened with peroxide as soon as you return home from the hospital, but don’t overdo it. After a week, the inside of the nostrils can be cleaned with Q-tips with mineral oil and after the bandage has been removed, the nose should be cleaned in the usual manner twice a day.

These are just some of the do’s and don’ts after your rhinoplasty surgery; for more information about how to have fast and comfortable recovery period, do not be shy to ask your surgeon because recovery is not fitted for everyone. Your plastic surgeon should be able to design a recovery program that best suit your needs and lifestyle.

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Five Most Popular Chemical Peels

Sep 12

Posted by Dr. Edwin Paul Magallona in Beauty and Health Tips, Cosmetic Surgery Facts | No Comments

Chemical peels are very effective for many skin problems including discoloration, acne, wrinkles, etc. Chemical peeling is done by applying a chemical formula onto the surface of the face; this removes the damaged outer layer of the skin leaving a softer and smoother skin underneath. Most procedure takes less than an hour to perform and depending on the condition of your face, it can take up to four sessions to get the desired result.

There are many different types of chemical peels that are suitable for specific skin care problems. The key in having great skin after the procedure is finding a board-certified Philippine plastic surgery expert so that he can monitor the progress of your skin. In this post, find out the five most popular chemical peels from the lightest to the deepest peel available.

Get to know the five most popular types of chemical peels and on your next visit to your surgeon, ask them about it. Photo from Google.

Alpha Hydroxy Acid Peels

Alpha hydroxyl acids, or AHA, are one of the most accepted ingredients in a mild chemical peel. Glycolic acid is the most popular AHA used. AHA peels hardly needs anesthetic to be performed and discomfort is very minimal during and after procedure. AHA peels reduces the appearance of fine lines, smoothen rough skin and gives you a more even skin tone. Because this is a mild procedure, it may take a couple of times before you get the desired results.

Beta Hydroxy Acid Peels

Salicylic acid is the most popular beta hydroxyl that is used for chemical peeling. Beta hydroxyl peels often treats acne-prone skin. Be aware though that salicylic acid is more potent than glycolic acid so it provides deeper chemical peel but with longer results. Beta hydroxyl peels are considered mild resurfacing treatments so just like AHA peels, it does require anesthesia and recovery period is relatively short. But, just like AHA peels, desired results will not be achieved after just one session so might as well stick with your appointments. More so, once you had this peel, you need to have it periodically to maintain a softer and smoother skin.

Jessner’s Peel

This is a combination of ingredients mixed into a single formula. This is considered a light chemical peel that is a little stronger than the two mentioned above. Jessner’s peel incorporates lactic and salicylic acid and resorcinol and is applied into the skin that is too damaged to respond to the two previous peels mentioned above. Jessner’s peels are often applied without anesthesia and recovery period takes about two weeks.

Most plastic surgery clinics offer chemical peel these days so ask your surgeon about it.

TCA Peels

Trichloroacetic acid is the most common ingredient found in medium chemical peels. This is used to successfully treat skin imperfections including sun damage, fine lines, wrinkles and acne scarring. After the procedure, the patient might sometimes feel a stinging sensation but don’t worry, over the counter medications are available. Recovery period for TCA peel take a week and results are more dramatic compared to lighter and medium peels. But for best results, one session is not enough.

Phenol Peels

Phenol is used for deep chemical peels and commonly gives the most dramatic result. This treats skin imperfections, removes pre-cancerous growths or completely diminish deep wrinkles. Because this formula is used for deep peeling, it requires at least two hours in you surgeon’s office and unlike the other peels, it requires local anesthesia and pain medication afterward. It takes up to a month for complete recovery but the results are smother skin that lasts longer than the four previous mentioned.

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Six Tips Before your Breast Augmentation Procedure

Aug 14

Posted by Dr. Edwin Paul Magallona in Cosmetic Surgery Blogs | No Comments

Any kind of medical operation has its complications and risks. Breast augmentation procedure is no exception. In fact, for some women, it may be a stressful time; and stress makes you do crazy things.

If you are planning to have a breast augmentation procedure, it is important that you plan months ahead before your big day. Planning is important because it prepares you for whatever and whenever you need something.

Breast augmentation is a significant event in a woman’s life but don’t let the stress come over you. Here are six tips before your breast augmentation procedure.

Consult your plastic surgeon before your breast augmentation procedure.

Make Personal Arrangements Early

Before the big day, arrange everything you need after the procedure like your “recovery room” at home, etc. It is also important not to overlook how you plan going to the hospital or clinic. It is better to have someone drive you to and from after the procedure. It is advisable that you have someone with you within the first 24 hours after the procedure because it is the most crucial part of the whole healing process.

Minimize your Responsibilities

A board-certified plastic surgeon will advice that immediately after your procedure, you should take a rest. In this case, ask someone to watch over your children even just for a day or two. More so, even before your procedure, you should have extra fluids or food at home so that you won’t have to leave the house. Lastly, if you have prescriptions, make sure that you have already made refills.

Pack your Stuff Early

Think of having a breast augmentation procedure as having another baby. Consulting with your plastic surgeon is crucial in the whole process because days before the operation, he will provide you a list of items you should bring with you on the day of the procedure. Generally, this should include prescriptions, medications and paper works. The earlier you packed the better.

Get your Game Face On

To have a fast recovery, as much as possible, it is advised that you prepare for the procedure months before; but, three days before the big day, treat your body with a healthy diet and avoid alcohol. You should also avoid vigorous exercises because this can lengthen your recovery period.

Don’t Forget Your Hygiene

The night before your breast augmentation procedure, shower and wash the areas involved; usually, the plastic surgeon will give you an antimicrobial soap. After showering, DO NOT put on make-up, creams, oils, deodorants and even moisturizers. As with any other surgery, do not drink or eat the night before.

Wear Proper Clothes

Wear and bring loose-fitting clothes with you during your procedure; preferably clothes that can be opened from the front. Also, choose flats and slip-on shoes. Do not worry much about how you will look immediately after the procedure because no one really looks good after any operation. All of these items will make you much more comfortable.

“Before your breast augmentation procedure, your plastic surgeon should make sure that you understand exactly what should be done and how the entire process will play out,” explains Dr. Edwin Paul V. Magallona. It is important that you ask your surgeon any questions that you have in mind so that in the end. You will have the result that you want.

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Understanding Gynecomastia

Aug 1

Posted by Dr. Edwin Paul Magallona in Cosmetic Surgery Blogs | 2 Comments

Unless you are in the medical field, you might not be familiar with gynecomastia, or breasts in the male form. It is true that not only women have enlarged breasts, but a good number of the male population suffers from it. This is the reason why researchers and surgeons developed procedures to reduce enlarged breasts in men.

Men who suffer from gynecomastia need not to worry because it can now be cure by plastic surgery.

Causes of Gynecomastia

There are many factors as to how a male incur more prominent breasts. These include genes, hormonal imbalances, use of steroids, obesity, liver disease and many others. Normally, this condition is from the abundant growth in the glandular and fatty tissue in the male breast which gives them a small to medium breasts. 40-60% of men experience it. It can also be present since birth, during the onset of puberty or simply the aging process.

Do You Have Gynecomastia?

Although it occurs in people with normal weight or body fat composition, it can also be from being overweight. If your case is such the latter, adhere to a diet plan and exercise; and if it does not solve your problems or you still feel as though you have fatty breasts, chances are, you might have the condition.

These are Your Choices

Your options normally depend on the cause but generally, most men choose to have it removed either by liposuction, manual fat extraction or mesotheraphy. You can have it removed at any time as long as you are in healthy condition and has realistic expectations. For best results, you can always consult a board-certified plastic surgeon.

Preparation Prior to Procedure

If you choose to have it removed, be sure to ask your surgeon about how to prepare. Just in case you become jittery on the actual day, always prepare before it arrives. Do not drink or eat anything after midnight on the evening prior to your operation; arrive in the clinic clean—freshly scrubbed with your instructed soap, no deodorant, powders, cologne, etc. You should also ask your surgeon about Vitamin C to be taken weeks prior the surgery. This is essential in good healing and to ward off colds or flu.

There are still other ways of preparing for the operation and you can always ask your surgeon about it.

What to Expect after the Operation

Expect that after your operation, you will be swollen and bruised; if such occurs, don’t panic because it will subside sooner or later. Your chest will feel more tender, stiff and sore a few days after but consult your doctor as to when you can move even just for a few minutes. Resting all day can lead to more blood clot which is very dangerous. Also expect pain, heat tingling, prickling and even burning sensations. This is caused by minor nerve damage but all you sensations will come back again after a few weeks.

Overall improvement should be expected in just a few weeks. Swelling and bruising will have subsided this time and results will become more obvious. More so, it takes about 3-6 months for the rest of the swelling to subside.

Breast augmentation in the Philippines is not just limited to women. Gynecomastia procedure is available for most plastic surgery clinics in the country. What’s important is that you find a board-certified plastic surgeon to ensure that only the best procedure will be practiced.

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