All Posts By

Bret Rodgers, MD, FACS

January 21, 2021
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Botox is One of the Best Solutions for Laugh Lines

By | Plastic Surgery

It’s human nature to want to smile and laugh. But alas, it is also human nature that many of us will develop confidence-shattering wrinkles as a direct result of these happy moments.

Laugh lines are unsightly creases that crop up predominantly around the nose, mouth, and chin. Lucky for those of you in despair, Botox — one of the most popular cosmetic procedures on the market — is an excellent remedy to this problem.

These creases are the result of prolonged smiling and laughing over a long period of time. When we engage in those actions, we’re wearing down the underlying tissue in our face. This causes the muscles to become overactive, in turn creating what we know as laugh lines.

Other factors, including aging, sun damage, and weight changes have also been shown to play a role in the development of laugh lines. However, by addressing the muscles underneath your face with Botox, we can nonetheless alleviate the issue.

The compound at the heart of the Botox procedure, botulinum toxin, is a natural muscle relaxant. By injecting it into your face, your overactive muscles will relax, erasing the cause of the laugh lines and the lines themselves. Just like that, your youthful good looks have returned.

Does it sound too good to be true? Due caution is encouraged with Botox. As a result of the popularity of the procedure, many unqualified doctors have attempted it and induced serious side effects in their patients.

However, under a qualified physician’s care, the procedure carries minimal risks and should only take approximately 15-20 minutes to complete. So long as your doctor is fully aware of the FDA-mandated guidelines and follows them properly, getting Botox should not be an issue.

For more information on the treatments we have available, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Rodgers today.

December 22, 2020
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Steps to Reducing Your Plastic Surgery Recovery Time

By | Plastic Surgery

Whether you’ve just undergone breast lift surgery or a full facelift, you need to remember that recovery is key.
But how long can recovery take and what can you expect once you’ve left the operating room?
Because we’re all busy with our lives, recovering as soon as possible is always on patients’ minds. Being stuck in bed isn’t fun, but it may be necessary during recovery no matter how long it takes.

Fortunately, you can speed up the recovery process with a few tips:

1. Follow Instructions

Be mindful of following your board-certified plastic surgeon’s instructions for post-op care to avoid complications and ensure you get the best results.

2. Choose a Qualified Surgeon

How long you were under anesthesia will determine how long it might take for you to feel normal again after surgery. Make sure you choose a qualified surgeon who will be administering the anesthesia properly.
Anesthesia is very safe when performed or supervised by an experienced, board-certified anesthesiologist.

3. Ask Questions and Get Answers Before the Surgery

When searching for a board-certified surgeon to perform your procedure, ask how long your surgery will take and who will be in the operating room helping with the surgery. Ask for referrals from other patients who had similar surgeries and about their recovery time.

4. Get Moving… Carefully

Even though you might want to get up and about right away, don’t rush it. Doing simple movements can keep you from getting stiff and prevent potentially dangerous complications like blood clots.
Start slowly by taking short walks and/or do light stretching throughout the day. Both of these activities help circulation and keep important body systems moving.

Don’t go running around the block, just do easy movements. Also, it’s not wise to get sweaty and overexert yourself as a rising heart rate and blood pressure can slow healing.

When stretching, go easy so you don’t put pressure on incision sites that could stretch or open. Always have someone with you during the first 24 to 48 hours after surgery to help you stand up and sit down.

5. Share Your Medical History

Make sure your surgeon and the staff know about your medical history, past surgeries, and complications during your first consult. Be forthright and tell your doctor everything in case something unexpected occurs during surgery. Not doing so could prolong your time under anesthesia or require more extensive surgery. Disclose all medication or drugs in your system, as well as current medications and all supplements you are taking.

Following any or all these tips will speed up your recovery and get you back to normal sooner rather than later.

November 24, 2020
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Why is a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Important?

By | Plastic Surgery

There has been an increase in the number of people undergoing plastic surgery over the last decade with the practice becoming more widespread and commonplace. 

Unfortunately, with this upsurge of interest, the number of cases where surgery has gone wrong has also increased. There are even TV shows about it!

These botched procedures are largely performed by general surgeons who are not trained specifically in plastic surgery. Patients are drawn to these doctors because they tend to be cheaper than specialized plastic surgeons.

The outcome is, of course, devastating for the patient. It can take money, time, and multiple corrective surgeries to undo the damage.

How do you know if your plastic surgeon is board-certified and why does it matter?

As with any surgery, there are always risks of complications or unforeseen difficulties.

Check to see if your plastic surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons by running a Google search and checking their medical credentials on sites like Healthgrades and WebMD.

This is important because, technically, any surgeon can carry out plastic surgery work. Board-certified plastic surgeons, however, have completed years of technical training and examinations before they can be certified. They need to provide evidence of their experience and take the right tests whereas general surgeons don’t need to do this.

It takes dedication and years of hard work to be board-certified. There is therefore a huge difference in the level of skill and experience between a general surgeon and a plastic surgeon.

What actions should you take before choosing a plastic surgeon?

  • Do your research. Simply spend some time Googling the surgeon you are thinking about using. You should quite easily be able to find their credentials and examples of their work. This should help you get a feel for their experience.
  • Ask your doctor.  You can also try asking your general physician whether they have anyone they might recommend. A recommendation should give you more confidence that you are safe in the hands of a particular surgeon.
  • Research costs.Do some research to find the average cost of the procedure you are interested in. If the price the surgeon is charging is much less than average, you should be cautious. If someone offers you a deal that seems too good to be true, it probably is!

Let us help you  Dr. Bret Rodgers is a board-certified plastic surgeon with a wealth of experience. If you are contemplating surgery, please get in touch for a consultation where you will have time to discuss any questions or concerns you might have in a safe and comfortable setting.

May 17, 2020
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chemical peels

5 Facts About Chemical Peels – The Hottest Beauty Trend This Summer

By | COVID-19

Chemical peels are one of the hottest beauty trends to appear this summer. They are making a huge comeback. But if the thought of slathering your face with chemicals leaves you running scared, fear not.

The treatment has evolved and we are here to dispel those myths that leave you hesitating at the salon door. Chemical peels are actually one of the most effective treatments available for removing acne scarring, fine lines and pigmentation. They are great for removing dull surface cells, revealing a glowing complexion – it could all be just a peel away!

1. Ouch!

One of the biggest worries people have about chemical peels is the pain that they expect to feel. The truth is, chemical peels vary in their strength and intensity, so you can find the right one for your needs. Some deeper peels may feel uncomfortable while they are working on your skin, but there should be no pain. The majority of peels will do little more than tingle.

2. Hide!

Another typical myth is that you will need to hibernate following a chemical peel. Once again, this is a myth. Many mild chemical peels won’t even cause your skin to peel at all. For those stronger peels, you will typically be healed within three days. And even during the peeling phase, you won’t be forced to hide out. It is generally not that bad at all.

3. Fixed!

Another misconception that people tend to hold is that a chemical peel is a one-time-only fix-all for skin care. The reality is that best results can typically be seen after a course of three chemical peels, with most therapists recommending that they are incorporated into your regular skin care routine.

4. Too Sensitive

We have mentioned that there are a variety of chemical peels available, and that means that there will be one to suit your skin type. Contrary to what you may have seen, chemical peels are not only for those with serious skin complaints. In fact, almost all skin types can benefit from a chemical peel, even sensitive skins.

5. DIY

You may have noticed that your favourite beauty store has started to offer chemical peel kits. So is this something that is safe to try at home? The truth is, most DIY chemical peels will not be strong enough to make a real impact on your skin. This treatment is something that we recommend is completed by a qualified therapist, who will be able to check for contraindications and do what is best for your skin.

What’s Stopping You?

Chemical peels have come a long way and are making a huge comeback this summer. It is no surprise that women are lining up for this skin treatment that can refresh your complexion, remove fine lines and leave you glowing. Some can even be completed in a lunch break, leaving no visible exfoliation. There is no reason not to try one, so check out your local beauty salon for information.

April 15, 2020
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Effective Ways to Practice Social Distancing

By | COVID-19

Social distancing has been proven to be an effective way to counter the spread of COVID-19. It limits the chances that one infected individual will go on to infect others.

What is social distancing?

Social distancing, also called physical distancing, is maintaining physical separation between yourself and those not in your immediate household. The primary way it is carried out is by maintaining at least six feet of distance between yourself and any other person while outside, and by staying at home and away from others as much as possible.

Self-isolation and self-quarantine are also forms of social distancing. If you have the virus, then self-isolation ensures you aren’t transmitting it to anyone by staying at home unless symptoms worsen to a point where you need to go to a hospital. Self-quarantine is if you suspect you may have contracted COVID-19 and isolate yourself to prevent any further spread.

Some effective ways to practice social distancing are:

      Be prepared
      Minimize the time you must spend outside the house by stocking up on essential supplies such as groceries and medication. Should you have to self-quarantine or isolate, you’ll be grateful that you thought ahead and gave yourself enough essential resources to hunker down for two weeks or more.
      Minimize venturing out
      Adopting habits that prevent you from leaving the house are key as well. For example, if your job permits it, work from home as much as possible. Instead of heading to the gym for a workout, exercise at home. Instead of heading to bars and restaurants, order takeout or delivery. Socializing with friends via phone calls and video conferences instead of in-person. Do whatever it takes to stay at home as much as possible.
      Ask for help when necessary
      See if there are ways your family or friends can help each other stay inside. If you are immunocompromised or otherwise vulnerable to the virus, ask if someone could deliver groceries to your front door. If you feel safe enough to go to the store yourself, see if your neighbors need help. There are also many on-demand apps for food delivery and grocery shopping. They may be more expensive, but it’s a price worth paying to ensure you’re not exposed to the virus.

      Practice good safety habits while outside
      While out and about if need be, be sure to practice good safety habits such as avoiding directly touching any surfaces, using hand sanitizer, wearing a mask, and maintaining at least six feet between anyone around you.
January 29, 2020
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Botox and Dermal Filler Myths

By | Aesthetic Treatment, Plastic Surgery

Botox and Dermal fillers have gained a reputation lately. Some have been good, while some, not so much. Here are some of the common myths associated with botox and dermal fillers and why they really are nothing more than myths.

Botox and Dermal Fillers Are The Same

The only thing similar between botox and dermal fillers is that they’re injected. Botox is a muscle relaxant, while dermal fillers restore the volume and lift the facial tissues, thus giving a youthful look. Other than this, dermal fillers tend to last longer than botox.

Botox and Fillers Are Really Painful

When it comes to any non-surgical cosmetic treatment, there is a small level of discomfort involved. The pain, however, is nowhere near intolerable. Dermal fillers tend to be at a higher level of discomfort but the pain is often reduced with the help of numbing agents.

Once you get Botox or fillers, you must continue to have them forever

One of the most common misconceptions of botox and dermal fillers is that the skin turns wrinkly and starts to sag even more than its original condition after the effect wears off. The truth is far from this. When the effect does wear off, your skin returns to its normal state, it does not get worse than it was at the beginning of the treatment. The only reason why people continue with botox and dermal fillers is that they’re happy with the results.

Botox is Dangerous

Safety is a primary concern for people undergoing any procedure. Many people believe that botox is toxic and dangerous. While there’s no denying that Botox is a product of a purified protein that comes from toxin, it is safe to use. Botox has a well-established history and there is no reason to worry about its safety.

They look really unnatural

There’s no running away from the fact that sometimes fillers and botox can give an unnatural appearance. However, it has more to do with how the procedure is performed and less with the actual procedure. While administering botox and fillers, it is important to have a sense of proportion and aesthetics. Just like any other procedure, non-surgical or otherwise, there are risks involved.

That being said, with the expertise of the right surgeon and a controlled sense of usage, there is no reason to worry about an unnatural outcome from these procedures.

January 3, 2020
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Six of the Most Popular Reasons for Rhinoplasty

By | Aesthetic Treatment, Plastic Surgery

Rhinoplasty, popularly known as a ‘nose job’ is a common cosmetic procedure that isn’t complex and high-risk. It’s favored by many to help provide a better balanced and symmetrical look on the face. Though most rhinoplasty procedures are cosmetic, it also involves helping fix abnormalities in the nose that make breathing challenging.
Let’s take a look at the six most popular reasons for rhinoplasty below, in no particular order:

Straighten out the dorsal hump

The dorsal hump on your nose is one of the most popular rhinoplasty corrective procedures. This procedure looks to smooth out the hump so that, especially from the side angle the nose is quite a lot sharper and straighter. How complicated of a procedure that’s carried out depends on whether it’s primarily bone or cartilage that needs to be surgically removed. 

Lift nasal tip

The nasal tip usually points down on many individuals and as a result,  its a common request to have this nasal tip lifted to provide a much sharper feature. A simple procedure, adjusting the nasal tip can have a big change in the overall profile of the nose. 

Make the bulbous tip more subtle

As you age, the bulbous tip can become more pronounced and round. This then can make the overall profile of the nose unappealing. As a result, rhinoplastic procedures can be carried out that try to refine the nasal tip and ensure that its size is kept proportional.

Fix a deviated septum

A deviated septum can be challenging and impede critical functions such as breathing. Because of this, fixing a deviated septum is less a cosmetic procedure and more one that improves the quality of life and health. This is considered a rhinoplastic procedure and can also improve the overall symmetry of the nose and profile. 

Adjust the size of the nose

We’ve all wondered whether our nose is big or small, and the size of the nose in relation to the overall face can make it look quite pronounced. Many are not a fan of this and prefer to undergo a procedure that helps to reduce the size of the nose. This procedure is typically a combination of many of the other ones mentioned.

Contour the nasal bridge

Contouring the nasal bridge involves trying to make the nasal bridge a lot flatter and narrower. This helps to contour the nose and give it a more symmetrical look in conjunction with the overall face. The procedure can also help give the face a narrower look.

October 28, 2019
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Body Contouring

The Benefits of truSculpt 3D Body Contouring

By | Aesthetic Treatment, Plastic Surgery

truSculpt 3D is one of the latest innovations in body contouring treatments. It uses monopolar radiofrequency (RF) to target fat cells underneath the skin, and then heats and destroys them so they can be eliminated by the body’s natural waste systems. The treatment is non-invasive and is FDA-approved for reducing the circumference of the abdomen and flanks (thighs).

How does it work?

During the truSculpt 3D session, a technician uses a handheld device to pulse RF energy into the fatty layers of the skin. The surrounding skin and tissue are not impacted by the frequency. The fatty, adipose tissue is selectively targeted and heated, while skin temperature remains relatively low.

truSculpt 3D uses two megahertz (MHz) of energy instead of the one MHz used by other contouring systems. Because the rate of heating is higher, treatment times are significantly shorter. Each session requires only a 15-minute session, and most patients start seeing results six to eight weeks after their first treatment.

While fat cells are permanently destroyed, truSculpt 3D is not meant to treat or prevent obesity. Providers recommend a healthy diet and regular exercise in combination with sessions to achieve optimal results.

Recovery time

While discomfort varies for each patient, most report that the procedure is virtually pain-free. Since it is a non-invasive procedure, recovery time is virtually non-existent, with some patients reporting some mild swelling or slight soreness after the procedure.

Unlike other body contouring treatments that pinch or suction the skin, truSculpt 3D moves on the top layer of the skin. The result is less bruising and redness than most patients experience with other methods.

Benefits

One benefit of truSculpt 3D that other body contouring options don’t offer is tightened skin. The RF energy penetrates deeper layers of the skin in addition to targeting fat cells. The result is an improvement in skin texture, tone, and firmness. Many users also report a reduction in the appearance of the “dimpled skin” effect caused by cellulite.

While truSculpt 3D is currently FDA-approved for contouring treatment of the stomach and thigh areas, it has been proven safe for use on the entire body. Because of the handheld device that is used to deliver radiofrequency, it is an excellent method for targeting smaller, hard-to-reach areas like fat under the chin or around bra straps or underarms.

Studies of truSculpt 3D have shown its ability to reduce the circumference of problem areas after just one treatment. As an added benefit, many subjects continue to eliminate targeted fat cells for several weeks following their treatment, further reducing the size and circumference of treatment areas.

While the main benefit of truSculpt 3D is targeted fat reduction, the added benefits of tighter skin, no recovery or downtime, and a reduction in the appearance of cellulite make it an increasingly popular option for patients seeking fast, effective body contouring treatments without painful surgery or inconvenient downtime.

July 28, 2019
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liposuction

Tired of Excess Body Fat? Why Liposuction Remains a Valuable Solution for Fat Reduction

By | Aesthetic Treatment, Plastic Surgery

Is excess fat slowing you down?

Have you tried dieting and exercising to no avail? 

Then, liposuction may be a good option for you!

Also known as lipoplasty or suction-assisted lipectomy, liposuction is a slightly invasive cosmetic procedure that removes excess fat from areas that don’t seem to respond to diet or exercise. 

It’s usually performed on the belly, hips, thighs, arms, buttocks, neck, back, and even face. It can also be done with other cosmetic surgeries like breast reductions, tummy tucks, and facelifts. 

Still not sure about liposuction? Here are some top reasons why it’s still a valuable option for fat reduction:

  1. Liposuction can treat certain conditions 

While this procedure is normally done for cosmetic purposes, it can also be used to treat several health complications, including: 

  • Lipomas: Benign, fatty tumors 
  • Morbid obesity 
  • Lipodystrophy syndrome: Accumulation of fat in one body part and loss in another
  • Lymphedema: Excess fluid in tissues
  • Gynecomastia: Accumulation of fat on a man’s breast

Liposuction will not only treat these conditions, but it’ll also promote a natural fat distribution in the body. 

  1. Tailored to specific locations on the body

During the procedure, fat is suctioned from the problem areas by a thin tube known as a cannula. When attached to a vacuum pump, the cannula sucks out all the fat through the incisions.  

They come in different sizes and shapes, including angled, sharp, and blunt-tipped. Your surgeon will select the right cannula for the problem area. For instance, an angled cannula may be perfect for neck liposuction, while a straw-like cannula may be used to remove belly fat. 

By using special equipment for specific body parts, you’re guaranteed better results. 

  1. The extracted fat can be reused 

Newer lipo techniques like water-assisted and tickle liposuction remove the excess fat with less bruising and trauma. As a result, the fat removed can be reused to plump up other areas in your body that lack volume – such as the face, butt, and breasts. 

Fat grafting from liposuction is a safer and less invasive procedure compared to implants and fillers. 

  1. Quick recovery time 

With liposuction, you can get back to work in less than two weeks. The recovery time is dependent on the individual and the type of surgery. 

After the procedure, expect some soreness, swelling, and bruising for the next few weeks. Additionally, your surgeon may recommend a compression garment for the next 1-2 months after the surgery to control the swelling. 

You may also need to take some antibiotics to prevent infections. 

  1. Tightened skin 

With newer liposuction methods such as ultra-sound lipo, fat is broken down using radiofrequency energy. This not only helps remove the fat but also brings about a skin tightening effect. Thus, there’s no need of undergoing a skin tightening procedure after the fat removal. 

Consider liposuction for quick fat reduction

It’s important to know that liposuction isn’t a substitute for a healthy lifestyle. It’s recommended for individuals with stubborn fat deposits that don’t respond to exercise and diet. 

Consult your surgeon for more information.

 

July 22, 2019
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Several Things to Know Before Having a Rhinoplasty

By | Aesthetic Treatment, Plastic Surgery

 

 

Rhinoplasty is a surgery that changes the shape of the nose. 

The motivation for rhinoplasty may be to change the appearance of the nose, improve breathing or both.

The upper portion of the structure of the nose is bone, and the lower portion is cartilage. Rhinoplasty can change bone, cartilage, skin or all three. 

Talk with your surgeon about whether rhinoplasty is appropriate for you and what it can achieve.

Here are a few things you need to know about rhinoplasty:

1. It can take about a year for your nose to heal fully.

Depending on the extent of your rhinoplasty, you may be able to see the most noticeable aspects of your results immediately after your splint and bandaging is removed.

But your nose will be slightly swollen for a few weeks after your surgery and can take almost a year to fully return to normal. 

Over this time, your scars will slowly diminish, residual swelling or irritation will subside and your skin texture and tone will return to normal. 

For patients with naturally thicker skin, it can take up to two years for your result to be fully realized. However, most of your visible healing should be done within the first three to six months. 

Changes after the six-month mark are typically subtle, and since you likely look at your face every day, you won’t notice any significant changes on a daily basis. 

It is best to review before and after pictures of your nose several months after the procedure. This will give you a more realistic look at the long-term changes achieved with the procedure.

2. Not Everyone is an Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate for a nose job is one who is unhappy with the appearance of their nose or has difficulty breathing.

However, you must be willing to be flexible and have realistic expectations. 

In order to heal properly, you must be in good overall health and it is recommended that you quit smoking, or at least stop until you are fully healed.

3. If It’s Done Right, No One Will Be Able to Tell

If your nose job is done right, it will enhance your natural beauty. 

A good nose job only involves minor alterations that allow your nose to blend in with the rest of your face. People will notice your beautiful appearance, rather than zeroing in on your nose.

4. Internal splints or nasal packing can dry out your mouth.

For about a week following your surgery, you will have splints or bandaging to help your nose heal correctly. Depending on your surgeon and your procedure, this may include splints inside your nose. 

The newer splints are designed to allow you to breathe through them, improving your post-rhinoplasty experience. However, you may feel more comfortable mouth breathing. 

Therefore, it is recommended that you stock up on lip moisturizers, hydrating beverages, and foods that require minimal chewing to help ease your discomfort during this time.

Rodgers Center for Plastic Surgery offers a number of options for facial plastic surgery, including rhinoplasties and treatments for nasal obstruction. Contact us for more information.