Month: November 2016

Variations in Tummy Tuck Technique

Tummy tuck is a popular procedure, and many patients are surprised to learn that there are several different variations of the procedure. Dr. Alexander Ereso would like to provide you with an overview of some of the different tummy tuck options. If you are interested in abdominal contouring, they will help you determine the most appropriate technique for your case, depending on your body type, problem area(s), amount of loose skin and other factors.

Standard or Full Tummy Tuck

A standard tummy tuck uses a hip-to-hip incision below the navel, as well as one around the belly button. Excess skin and fat deposits are removed, internal sutures are used to repair and tighten the abdominal muscles and the remaining skin is then re-draped more tightly over the abdomen. The navel may also be repositioned higher on the abdomen. The tummy tuck incision leaves a horizontal scar low on the abdomen and easily concealed by underwear or a bathing suit.

Extended Tummy Tuck

Used primarily for patients who have experienced significant weight loss (often through bariatric surgery) and have a surplus of loose skin and excess fat around the lower abdomen and back. (Sometimes this area resembles an apron of skin, and is referred to as a pannus.) The extended tummy tuck incision reaches across the lower abdomen and extends around the sides of the body so that the entire torso can be contoured. As with a full tummy tuck, an incision around the navel is required to reposition it.

Mini Tummy Tuck

Sometimes a patient has a minor amount of fat and excess skin below the abdomen (either after a pregnancy or weight loss) and desires a small correction to their figure. A mini tummy tuck differs from the other forms of the procedure in that it is limited to the area beneath the navel. Excess fat and skin are removed and the navel is not repositioned.

Lipo Abdominoplasty

Almost always, Dr. Ereso combines liposuction with tummy tuck procedures. Liposuction can be combined with standard, extended and mini tummy tucks. Lipo abdominoplasty has been one of the most significant advancements in body contouring rejuvenation.

Through careful consideration of the specifics of your situation – age, degree of loose skin and fat, overall physical condition – Dr. Ereso can recommend the tummy tuck procedure that aligns with your needs and aesthetic objectives. Please call our office at (650) 964-6600 to schedule an appointment.

Understanding How the Eyes Age (And What We Can Do About It)

Aging takes its toll on the body, and the eyes are no exception. As we get older, our skin becomes thinner and more fragile, causing our upper eyelid skin to sag, our brows to descend and the bones around the eyes to become more prominent. Surgery has traditionally been a route for many patients seeking to rejuvenate their eyes, but there are several non-surgical solutions as well. Dr. Alexander Ereso would like to give you a primer on the options.

Eyelid Surgery

Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, can correct many of the most common problems associated with aging eyes. Following are some excellent reasons to inquire about whether eyelid surgery is the correct solution for you:

  • Your upper eyelids have flaps of excess loose skin
  • You feel like upper eyelid sagging is impairing your vision
  • You have excessively puffy upper or lower eyelids
  • You have extensive wrinkling of your lower eyelids
  • You have dark circles under your eyes not related to sleep deprivation
  • You notice your eyelids are drooping to the point where you can see white below the iris of your eyes

Botox

Botox, comprised of a protein derived from the Botulinum toxin, is a commonly used injectable product that can temporarily counteract the effects of aging by relaxing the muscles in a specific area to smooth the overlying wrinkles.

Chemical Peel or Laser Resurfacing

Crow’s feet (wrinkles at the corners of the eyes) can be addressed with a laser resurfacing treatment. Dark circles beneath the eyes created by dark pigmentation may respond well to a chemical peel or bleaching solution.

Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Fillers

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a form of sugar that is a natural component of healthy and hydrated skin, and it supports two vital cell elements: collagen and elastin. HA has been medically approved for use since 2005. It is a component in several branded injectable products, including Juvederm, Restylane and HA products are particularly well suited for treating wrinkles around the eyes (crow’s feet).

HA treatments are generally safe and long-lasting. HA injections to the brow can improve the appearance of the upper eyelid, smoothing the skin to minimize wrinkles.

Dr. Ereso looks forward to speaking with you about restoring a youthful appearance to your eyes. Please call us at (650) 964-6600 to schedule an appointment.