As with any cancer, treatment for Mesothelioma depends on the location of the cancer, the progression of the disease, the age as well as state of health of the patient.
It is the oncologist who specializes in the disease who will decide on the line of treatment. The disease is difficult to treat and in most cases the prognosis is poor. Treatment options include:
1. If the diagnosis is done in the early stages surgery may be recommended to remove all cancerous tissues. This means thoracoscopy, VATS or video assisted thoracic surgery, mediastinoscopy (used for staging), or laproscopy. Often, doctors will advise palliative procedures like chest tube drainage and pleurodesis, thoracoscopy and pleurodesis, pleuroperitonial shunt, or pleurectomy, which treat the symptoms of mesothelioma rather than the disease.
2. Radiation is prescribed aggressively for mesothelioma patients and is often given in combination with surgery or in order to control symptoms, palliatively. Research on using radiation therapy using implants or UV light therapy is in progress as traditional radiation therapy damages surrounding healthy tissue.
3. Chemotherapy is an option and around 12-20% of patients respond to the drugs. Anti-cancer drugs destroy cancer cells and prevent their spread. In mesothelioma, chemotherapy is not considered to be curative. The aim is to prevent spread of the disease; shrink the tumor prior to surgery, known as neoadjuvant therapy; to annihilate any remains of the tumor in the body post surgery; and to relieve pain and other discomfort, palliative chemotherapy. Experts recommend prescribing premetrexed along with cisplastin. These drugs have shown positive results and this is now standard care for Mesothelioma not treatable by surgery.
4. Biological therapy using interleukin 2.
5. Immunotherapy where the body's own immune system is stimulated to fight the disease. Biological response modifiers, BRMs, are used in treatment. These enhance the functions of the immune system; regulate metabolic reactions that promote growth of cancers; alter cancer cell division; block or reverse processes that lead to formation of cancers; and prevent spread of cancer.
6. Gene therapy, where attempts are made to correct the gene sequence that causes the cancer. This is of two kinds, replacement gene therapy and knockout gene therapy.
7. Administration of lovastatin, a cholesterol lowering drug.
8. Photodynamic treatment where a photosensitive medication is activated using a laser. This is done during the surgical removal of cancerous tissues.
9. Draining of fluid in the chest or abdominal cavity followed by introduction of medications into the cavity to prevent fluid accumulation is done for patients who have uncontrolled fluid accumulation and intense discomfort stemming from it.
10. Combination therapy or Trimodal therapy which means surgery accompanied by radiation and chemotherapy.
Often, complementary medicines are also used. Termed to be holistic this kind of treatment focuses on a patient's physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well being.
In the case of Mesothelioma which is untreatable one can opt for clinical trials of new treatments that are in progress in several research laboratories and centers. The best advice on the line of treatment would be that recommended by the oncologist or physician.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
All About a Mesothelioma Lawyer
When someone is diagnosed with mesothelioma, they may find that they need an attorney to help them with their case. This is a disease that is rare, and there is little to be said about the condition. The rate of this disease is on the increase and there are new lawyers that are trying to settle many cases for different people. They have stepped in for the rights of the people to help them with their case.
Many victims of this disease need to have a mesothelioma lawyer to help them with their fight. These lawyers and law firms will deal with the victims and their families to help them claim the right compensation that they deserve from the companies that are responsible for their problems. These lawsuits result in a lot of money being won by the families when the right lawyer or firm handles them.
Handling asbestos causes mesothelioma. This comes from working in an environment that is affected by this deadly material or by someone that is contracted to remove it. Most of the time, the workers are made clear of the dangers that can be caused by working with this type of material. However, some employers will allow little or no protection from the material when the employees are handling it. These workers are entitled to compensation for their work.Today there are many mesothelioma lawyers to choose from and there are many that are right for you. Many of these lawyers have dealt with this type of suit in the past and know the correct way to handle it. Those people that are looking for a lawyer should choose someone with a good history and experience in this type of case. Most lawyers are happy to provide clients with information that may be helpful in using them for your services. They will show past cases with the names deleted to show proof of their victory.
It is a good idea to find out if the mesothelioma lawyer that you are looking into has won any of their cases or not. These elements can make all the difference when it comes to trying to find the right lawyer to help you with your situation. It is a good idea to do as much research as you can on the entire situation. You may be able to determine your future when you choose their right mesothelioma lawyer for you and your case.
When it comes to being sick with a disease that could have been prevented, it is hard to deal with. Finding the right mesothelioma lawyer to help you in your fight against these companies is a good start. You will be fighting for something that means so much to a lot of people and it will be worth it in the end.
Many victims of this disease need to have a mesothelioma lawyer to help them with their fight. These lawyers and law firms will deal with the victims and their families to help them claim the right compensation that they deserve from the companies that are responsible for their problems. These lawsuits result in a lot of money being won by the families when the right lawyer or firm handles them.
Handling asbestos causes mesothelioma. This comes from working in an environment that is affected by this deadly material or by someone that is contracted to remove it. Most of the time, the workers are made clear of the dangers that can be caused by working with this type of material. However, some employers will allow little or no protection from the material when the employees are handling it. These workers are entitled to compensation for their work.Today there are many mesothelioma lawyers to choose from and there are many that are right for you. Many of these lawyers have dealt with this type of suit in the past and know the correct way to handle it. Those people that are looking for a lawyer should choose someone with a good history and experience in this type of case. Most lawyers are happy to provide clients with information that may be helpful in using them for your services. They will show past cases with the names deleted to show proof of their victory.
It is a good idea to find out if the mesothelioma lawyer that you are looking into has won any of their cases or not. These elements can make all the difference when it comes to trying to find the right lawyer to help you with your situation. It is a good idea to do as much research as you can on the entire situation. You may be able to determine your future when you choose their right mesothelioma lawyer for you and your case.
When it comes to being sick with a disease that could have been prevented, it is hard to deal with. Finding the right mesothelioma lawyer to help you in your fight against these companies is a good start. You will be fighting for something that means so much to a lot of people and it will be worth it in the end.
A Brief Overview of Mesothelioma
Nowadays there is a lot of discussion all over the world, both offline and over the Internet, about mesothelioma. In the USA, there are mesothelioma awareness groups in almost every city in the USA. Besides discussion forums, mesothelioma legal cells, mesothelioma forums, mesothelioma awareness groups etc., today mesothelioma research is a very vast subject. There is even a Mesothelioma Memorial Scholarship that is offered every quarter. This scholarship is given in remembrance and honor of those that have been touched by mesothelioma. Billions of dollars have been spent in trying to fight this dreaded disease and find a cure. Let us begin by asking this simple question - what is mesothelioma?
What is Mesothelioma?Asbestos and mesothelioma are infamously related. Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that affects people who have been exposed to asbestos. It is a rare form of cancer, and affects only those people who have had a history of exposure to asbestos, not others. However, there can be secondary cases, where a person may come into contact with someone who has been exposed to asbestos in the past. The key to mesothelioma, as is apparent here, is exposure to asbestos.
The primary cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Once the patient has inhaled asbestos dust/fibers, other factors like smoking can aggravate the condition over a period of time. There can be other causes of mesothelioma too. For example, there have been cases diagnosed where the patient has had no history of asbestos exposure. People can get it from people who have had asbestos exposure. Before we proceed further, let us define mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma definition: Mesothelioma is defined as is an uncommon form of cancer, usually associated with previous exposure to asbestos. In this disease, malignant (cancerous) cells develop in the mesothelium, a protective lining that covers most of the body's internal organs. Malignant mesothelioma cells proliferate at the affected area, and are usually very hard to remove totally.
Mesothelioma came to be widely known about only from about the 60s, when the symptoms started manifesting, and mesothelioma cases were diagnosed. Across America, for people working at facilities that were asbestos-related, it became a nightmare. This was more because at that time, asbestos, because of the number of advantages it had over other metals, was widely used across industries all over the world. It was a tragedy of epic proportions waiting to be unleashed, and when it was unleashed, it wrought havoc in the lives of people all across America. Thousands lost their lives to mesothelioma, and even now, thousands more continue to fight this dreaded disease.
What is Mesothelioma?Asbestos and mesothelioma are infamously related. Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that affects people who have been exposed to asbestos. It is a rare form of cancer, and affects only those people who have had a history of exposure to asbestos, not others. However, there can be secondary cases, where a person may come into contact with someone who has been exposed to asbestos in the past. The key to mesothelioma, as is apparent here, is exposure to asbestos.
The primary cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Once the patient has inhaled asbestos dust/fibers, other factors like smoking can aggravate the condition over a period of time. There can be other causes of mesothelioma too. For example, there have been cases diagnosed where the patient has had no history of asbestos exposure. People can get it from people who have had asbestos exposure. Before we proceed further, let us define mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma definition: Mesothelioma is defined as is an uncommon form of cancer, usually associated with previous exposure to asbestos. In this disease, malignant (cancerous) cells develop in the mesothelium, a protective lining that covers most of the body's internal organs. Malignant mesothelioma cells proliferate at the affected area, and are usually very hard to remove totally.
Mesothelioma came to be widely known about only from about the 60s, when the symptoms started manifesting, and mesothelioma cases were diagnosed. Across America, for people working at facilities that were asbestos-related, it became a nightmare. This was more because at that time, asbestos, because of the number of advantages it had over other metals, was widely used across industries all over the world. It was a tragedy of epic proportions waiting to be unleashed, and when it was unleashed, it wrought havoc in the lives of people all across America. Thousands lost their lives to mesothelioma, and even now, thousands more continue to fight this dreaded disease.
Mesothelioma: Mesothelioma Cancer main factors
Mesothelioma cancer can strike anyone, but appears more often in men than in women. It is a disease mainly linked to asbestos and smoke, since most people who have worked on jobs where they breathed in asbestos particles, have developed this pathology.
Experts believe that smoking does not seem to be a directly related risk for developing the disease only by its own, but its combination with asbestos exposure increases the risk of Mesothelioma, so stop smoking if you are exposed to asbestos in your workplace.
According to statistics eight out of ten of all reported cases were exposed to asbestos, however there are cases of people that have not had any exposure to the fibers of this mineral.
Therefore, the main risk factor for developing Mesothelioma can be found in asbestos, a group of fibrous metamorphic minerals which have an special resistance to fire. Asbestos have been exploited for a variety of purposes, such as industrial products, roof shingles and flooring products.
However, some uses of asbestos are banned in many countries, since it is known that the inhalation of some kinds of asbestos fibers can cause various illnesses, including Mesothelioma, lung, larynx and kidney cancer and asbestosis, a chronic lung ailment, but a non cancerous pathology.
Most asbestos fibers are invisible to the unaided human eye and the problem increases because just one asbestos fiber can become the source of hundreds of thinner and smaller fibers over time. As they get smaller and lighter, they become more mobile and more easily to be driven and carried by the air.
That is why people who work in asbestos mines and mills or producing asbestos products must wear personal protective equipment to lower their risk of exposure, according to acceptable levels of asbestos exposure in the workplace set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration of the United States.
Experts believe that smoking does not seem to be a directly related risk for developing the disease only by its own, but its combination with asbestos exposure increases the risk of Mesothelioma, so stop smoking if you are exposed to asbestos in your workplace.
According to statistics eight out of ten of all reported cases were exposed to asbestos, however there are cases of people that have not had any exposure to the fibers of this mineral.
Therefore, the main risk factor for developing Mesothelioma can be found in asbestos, a group of fibrous metamorphic minerals which have an special resistance to fire. Asbestos have been exploited for a variety of purposes, such as industrial products, roof shingles and flooring products.
However, some uses of asbestos are banned in many countries, since it is known that the inhalation of some kinds of asbestos fibers can cause various illnesses, including Mesothelioma, lung, larynx and kidney cancer and asbestosis, a chronic lung ailment, but a non cancerous pathology.
Most asbestos fibers are invisible to the unaided human eye and the problem increases because just one asbestos fiber can become the source of hundreds of thinner and smaller fibers over time. As they get smaller and lighter, they become more mobile and more easily to be driven and carried by the air.
That is why people who work in asbestos mines and mills or producing asbestos products must wear personal protective equipment to lower their risk of exposure, according to acceptable levels of asbestos exposure in the workplace set by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration of the United States.
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Breast Implant Surgery for Beauty Elevation
Breast implant surgery has been embraced by millions of women around the globe, despite the medical and social controversies surrounding the procedure. Women's' breasts since time immemorial have been eye candy for men and a source of pride for women. No wonder, it has also been the inspiration for much beauty in literature.
Breast enhancement is the buzzword of the cosmetic plastic surgery industry and breast implants have been heralded and desired by women of every shape, size, and financial background. Also called mammoplasty, a breast implant procedure increases the volume of the breast(s) by the placement of an implant within the chest, behind each breast. Changes as a result of weight loss, childbirth, and aging can lead a woman to the decision to undergo a breast implant procedure. And although the safety of the breast implants has been questioned in the past, recent research has concluded that saline breast implants are safe to use and to receive.
What is Breast Implant Surgery?Breast implants surgery is the planting of prosthesis to enhance the size and shape of a woman's breasts or to reconstruct the breast. Of the four types of breast implants, saline (salt water) filled implants are now the most popular, and regarded as the safest, in cosmetic surgery circles.
Breast Implants Surgery - Before the ImplantsIn the initial consultation, the physician will be looking to determine whether a patient is the best candidate for the breast implant procedure. An extensive medical history will be taken, as well as medical tests to determine the patient's current health status. Before the breast implant surgery, the surgeon must have a comprehensive overview of the patient's health - so it is necessary that any problems, or medications, or recreational drug use be disclosed at this appointment. Some patients' history may preclude them from undergoing the breast implants procedure, or at least need to be scheduled at a later date when health issues and habits have been resolved.
Breast Implants Surgery - Who are they for?The best candidate for breast implants is a woman that has completed the growth process-usually the age of 18 is determined to be the cutoff age. And women who are not pregnant or breastfeeding are also good candidates for breast implants. Patients should also be in good health and not planning significant weight loss. Any of these factors can change the intended results of the breast implants.Breast Implants Surgery - The ProcedureThe breast implants procedure is usually done under general anesthesia, or when the patient is 'asleep'. The implant is inserted through a small incision, with hardly any scar that can be noticed. Sometimes the incision for the breast implants is underneath the breast, or it may be within the lower edge of the areola, or it may be in the armpit area so as to avoid any scars in the breast region. After the incision is made, the surgeon opens a pocket under the natural breast where the breast implant will be placed. Once the implant is in place, then the incision is closed and the next breast is done, if necessary.
Breast Implants Surgery - Risks and ComplicationsBreast implants have always been frowned upon by medical professionals and moral police. But there are real risks associated with breast implants. The most recent controversy is that of implants filled with a silicone gel, so many physicians are using implants that are filled with a saline solution instead. In the rare occurrence the implant is punctured and the contents are released, the saline solution is reabsorbed by the body without adverse effects. With silicone implants, some patients have reported disastrous effects from the breakage of the silicone filled breast implants. It seems that the silicone can induce the body's immune system to respond and it can cause a type of chronic autoimmune disease in some.
Breast enhancement is the buzzword of the cosmetic plastic surgery industry and breast implants have been heralded and desired by women of every shape, size, and financial background. Also called mammoplasty, a breast implant procedure increases the volume of the breast(s) by the placement of an implant within the chest, behind each breast. Changes as a result of weight loss, childbirth, and aging can lead a woman to the decision to undergo a breast implant procedure. And although the safety of the breast implants has been questioned in the past, recent research has concluded that saline breast implants are safe to use and to receive.
What is Breast Implant Surgery?Breast implants surgery is the planting of prosthesis to enhance the size and shape of a woman's breasts or to reconstruct the breast. Of the four types of breast implants, saline (salt water) filled implants are now the most popular, and regarded as the safest, in cosmetic surgery circles.
Breast Implants Surgery - Before the ImplantsIn the initial consultation, the physician will be looking to determine whether a patient is the best candidate for the breast implant procedure. An extensive medical history will be taken, as well as medical tests to determine the patient's current health status. Before the breast implant surgery, the surgeon must have a comprehensive overview of the patient's health - so it is necessary that any problems, or medications, or recreational drug use be disclosed at this appointment. Some patients' history may preclude them from undergoing the breast implants procedure, or at least need to be scheduled at a later date when health issues and habits have been resolved.
Breast Implants Surgery - Who are they for?The best candidate for breast implants is a woman that has completed the growth process-usually the age of 18 is determined to be the cutoff age. And women who are not pregnant or breastfeeding are also good candidates for breast implants. Patients should also be in good health and not planning significant weight loss. Any of these factors can change the intended results of the breast implants.Breast Implants Surgery - The ProcedureThe breast implants procedure is usually done under general anesthesia, or when the patient is 'asleep'. The implant is inserted through a small incision, with hardly any scar that can be noticed. Sometimes the incision for the breast implants is underneath the breast, or it may be within the lower edge of the areola, or it may be in the armpit area so as to avoid any scars in the breast region. After the incision is made, the surgeon opens a pocket under the natural breast where the breast implant will be placed. Once the implant is in place, then the incision is closed and the next breast is done, if necessary.
Breast Implants Surgery - Risks and ComplicationsBreast implants have always been frowned upon by medical professionals and moral police. But there are real risks associated with breast implants. The most recent controversy is that of implants filled with a silicone gel, so many physicians are using implants that are filled with a saline solution instead. In the rare occurrence the implant is punctured and the contents are released, the saline solution is reabsorbed by the body without adverse effects. With silicone implants, some patients have reported disastrous effects from the breakage of the silicone filled breast implants. It seems that the silicone can induce the body's immune system to respond and it can cause a type of chronic autoimmune disease in some.
Liposuction Dangers 101
By: Charlene J. Nuble
One Reality TV show, The Swan, thrives on makeovers. Often viewed as tantamount to having a new life, a lot of people get giddy with the thought of undergoing a makeover. Imagine being surrounded by aesthetics professionals brainstorming on how to make a deity out of an ugly duckling. Simply incredible, isn't it?
High on the mirage of the promise of exquisiteness lingers on mind. It's not until the prick of the needle for shots of anesthesia brings you back to your senses.
Elusive beauty is the major objective of each makeover. With this goal in mind, technology gave birth to a way of achieving what's thought of as currently beautiful in the form of plastic surgery. Liposuction is considered the most popular procedure in the United States for several years running. But liposuction is quite new to the US.
Liposuction was invented in Italy by two gynecologists, Dr. Gorgio Fischer and his son Dr. Gorgio Fischer, Jr. in 1974. Through small incisions, they were able to cut away fat tissues within the body. A rotating scalpel and suctions aided the procedure. Though not as comparable to today's techniques, Drs. Fischer still deserve the credit for liposuction.
Also known as lipoplasty and lipectomy, liposuction removes isolated pockets of fat from the body of those who are of relatively normal weight. These fat pockets or cellulites could either result from overeating alone or as an inherited trait that can't be removed by dieting or exercise.
The liposuction market comes from actors frantic with weight loss failure or simply just anyone who can afford a cellulite-free life. Anyone interested with liposuction should be informed that liposuction, as a surgical procedure, is not risk free. Before going gaga over losing those pesky flabs, better consider the following risks and complications that range from mild to potentially life-threatening.
Skin Sag. Removal of fat tissues in one area of the body at once may result in loose skin, depending on skin's elasticity. Stretch marks hint poor skin elasticity. So you might want to look all over your body for stretch marks first before getting nicked.
Uneven curves. Take-two's of this procedure often come from liposuction patients complaining about lumps and bumps from their original surgery.
Liposuction Scars. Scars from liposuction are permanent. It is recommended that to prevent scar tissue from darkening, they should be kept out of the sun.
Swelling. Depending on the recovery rate and are operated on, edema or swelling may last for weeks or even months after liposuction. Fluid pockets may form. They will need to be drained with a needle.
Infection. Most patients that underwent surgical procedures are prone to infections. Antibiotics are prescribed to take after liposuction to prevent infection.
Burns. Ultrasonic assisted liposuction utilizes a probe that may become very hot and can cause burns.
Organ Damage from Injury. A probe under the skin through a small incision gives the possibility of puncturing an internal organ.
Fluid Imbalance. During liposuction, large amounts of fluids are injected while some fluid is removed from the fat tissue. If not recognized fluid imbalance may result in pulmonary edema, or heart or kidney dysfunction.
Pulmonary Embolism. Small pieces of fat may crumb off during liposuction and go to the lungs as pulmonary emboli. This risk is greatest within the first 3 days.
Lidocaine Overdose. Too much lidocaine injected may result to toxicity.
Liposuction Deaths. For every 100,000 liposuction performed, the risk of death is around 3.
These liposuction dangers could be lowered in rate if an expert surgeon will perform the operation. The health of the patient would also influence the severity of the risks. Avoiding multiple procedures, general anesthesia, extracting large amount of fat could also contribute to a safer liposuction.
One Reality TV show, The Swan, thrives on makeovers. Often viewed as tantamount to having a new life, a lot of people get giddy with the thought of undergoing a makeover. Imagine being surrounded by aesthetics professionals brainstorming on how to make a deity out of an ugly duckling. Simply incredible, isn't it?
High on the mirage of the promise of exquisiteness lingers on mind. It's not until the prick of the needle for shots of anesthesia brings you back to your senses.
Elusive beauty is the major objective of each makeover. With this goal in mind, technology gave birth to a way of achieving what's thought of as currently beautiful in the form of plastic surgery. Liposuction is considered the most popular procedure in the United States for several years running. But liposuction is quite new to the US.
Liposuction was invented in Italy by two gynecologists, Dr. Gorgio Fischer and his son Dr. Gorgio Fischer, Jr. in 1974. Through small incisions, they were able to cut away fat tissues within the body. A rotating scalpel and suctions aided the procedure. Though not as comparable to today's techniques, Drs. Fischer still deserve the credit for liposuction.
Also known as lipoplasty and lipectomy, liposuction removes isolated pockets of fat from the body of those who are of relatively normal weight. These fat pockets or cellulites could either result from overeating alone or as an inherited trait that can't be removed by dieting or exercise.
The liposuction market comes from actors frantic with weight loss failure or simply just anyone who can afford a cellulite-free life. Anyone interested with liposuction should be informed that liposuction, as a surgical procedure, is not risk free. Before going gaga over losing those pesky flabs, better consider the following risks and complications that range from mild to potentially life-threatening.
Skin Sag. Removal of fat tissues in one area of the body at once may result in loose skin, depending on skin's elasticity. Stretch marks hint poor skin elasticity. So you might want to look all over your body for stretch marks first before getting nicked.
Uneven curves. Take-two's of this procedure often come from liposuction patients complaining about lumps and bumps from their original surgery.
Liposuction Scars. Scars from liposuction are permanent. It is recommended that to prevent scar tissue from darkening, they should be kept out of the sun.
Swelling. Depending on the recovery rate and are operated on, edema or swelling may last for weeks or even months after liposuction. Fluid pockets may form. They will need to be drained with a needle.
Infection. Most patients that underwent surgical procedures are prone to infections. Antibiotics are prescribed to take after liposuction to prevent infection.
Burns. Ultrasonic assisted liposuction utilizes a probe that may become very hot and can cause burns.
Organ Damage from Injury. A probe under the skin through a small incision gives the possibility of puncturing an internal organ.
Fluid Imbalance. During liposuction, large amounts of fluids are injected while some fluid is removed from the fat tissue. If not recognized fluid imbalance may result in pulmonary edema, or heart or kidney dysfunction.
Pulmonary Embolism. Small pieces of fat may crumb off during liposuction and go to the lungs as pulmonary emboli. This risk is greatest within the first 3 days.
Lidocaine Overdose. Too much lidocaine injected may result to toxicity.
Liposuction Deaths. For every 100,000 liposuction performed, the risk of death is around 3.
These liposuction dangers could be lowered in rate if an expert surgeon will perform the operation. The health of the patient would also influence the severity of the risks. Avoiding multiple procedures, general anesthesia, extracting large amount of fat could also contribute to a safer liposuction.
Plastic Surgery vs. Reconstructive Surgery
Plastic surgery and reconstructive surgery are bandied about so much people often confuse them. While both involve the improvement of your appearance, there are distinct differences.
Plastic Surgery vs. Reconstructive Surgery
Both plastic surgery and reconstructive surgery are designed to improve the appearance of a person. This can be done through lifts, tucks, reshaping and so on. The correct usage of the terms, however, is dependent upon the underlying reason for the surgical procedure.
Plastic surgery is an elective surgery. In its most basic form, plastic surgery takes a normal part of the body and improves it in a manner desired by the patient. Common plastic surgery procedures include liposuction, breast enhancement or reduction, nose reshaping, reshaping of the abdomen and the well-known facelift. All of these surgeries are based purely on a voluntary desire to improve one's appearance.
Reconstructive surgery is often elective, but can also be medically necessary. Reconstructive surgery differs from plastic surgery in one significant way. It is focused on making improvements to a damaged or abnormal part of the body. For example, a person may suffer damage from trauma or disease that leaves a part of the body looking abnormal and functionally deficient, such as breaking facial bones in an automobile accident. Reconstructive surgery will be undertaken to repair the facial structure so that it both performs and appears normally. While appearance is important, most reconstructive surgery focuses on functionality first.
The differences between plastic and reconstructive surgery often blur. Breast enhancement or reduction surgery is a form of plastic surgery. Repairing breasts after the all too common complications of breast cancer is considered reconstructive surgery. Repairing the septum of the nose is considered reconstructive surgery, but simply reshaping the nose is considered plastic surgery. This blurred line is repeated in other areas as well.
Ultimately, the dividing line between reconstructive surgery and plastic surgery is mostly an academic debate or vary obvious given specific circumstances. Regardless, it is important to understand that there is a distinction.
Plastic Surgery vs. Reconstructive Surgery
Both plastic surgery and reconstructive surgery are designed to improve the appearance of a person. This can be done through lifts, tucks, reshaping and so on. The correct usage of the terms, however, is dependent upon the underlying reason for the surgical procedure.
Plastic surgery is an elective surgery. In its most basic form, plastic surgery takes a normal part of the body and improves it in a manner desired by the patient. Common plastic surgery procedures include liposuction, breast enhancement or reduction, nose reshaping, reshaping of the abdomen and the well-known facelift. All of these surgeries are based purely on a voluntary desire to improve one's appearance.
Reconstructive surgery is often elective, but can also be medically necessary. Reconstructive surgery differs from plastic surgery in one significant way. It is focused on making improvements to a damaged or abnormal part of the body. For example, a person may suffer damage from trauma or disease that leaves a part of the body looking abnormal and functionally deficient, such as breaking facial bones in an automobile accident. Reconstructive surgery will be undertaken to repair the facial structure so that it both performs and appears normally. While appearance is important, most reconstructive surgery focuses on functionality first.
The differences between plastic and reconstructive surgery often blur. Breast enhancement or reduction surgery is a form of plastic surgery. Repairing breasts after the all too common complications of breast cancer is considered reconstructive surgery. Repairing the septum of the nose is considered reconstructive surgery, but simply reshaping the nose is considered plastic surgery. This blurred line is repeated in other areas as well.
Ultimately, the dividing line between reconstructive surgery and plastic surgery is mostly an academic debate or vary obvious given specific circumstances. Regardless, it is important to understand that there is a distinction.
Plastic Surgery and Relationships
A wholesome change could promote Plastic surgery in your relationship with yourself. Many people seem dissatisfied with some physical attribute or body feature and find this as a solution not only possible but also easier than ever. Plastic surgery goes by fixing any given detail driven you out of wits every time looked yourself in the mirror, as far as overall reshaping personal necessities and so-wishes accordingly.
Researches show that the highest the degree of fitness in any given plastic surgery, the stronger the likelihood of positive outcome and optimal recovery. In the end, factors which altogether help in the final result. Fortunately, so too the internet provided plenty of helpful and cheerful database on every detail within the plastic surgery embodiment. As such competitive rates and alternative stakes, odds against and preparation checklist. Yet foster the internet reliable source of before-and-after pictures sought after as a clue up with plastic surgery hints.
Further keep another key element in mind that plastic surgery is not suitable for everyone’s needs. Let us consider disability as a fact for invasive techniques by seeking other cosmetic options. Smokers, obese or those severely distressed and under conditions like diabetes, heart disease or hypertension don’t stand for plastic surgery as eligible able-bodied candidates.
Certain key factors should be held accountable when considering whether undergone plastic surgery procedure.
- Can you spare the time expenditure required in fully recovering? Plastic surgery by and large demanded long periods of recovery and rest, as of essence for expected results.
- Were you made well-aware of possibly risks and complications? How would you handle unexpected results or complications?
- Are you seeking something as extreme that is plastic surgery as challenging in order to please yourself or someone else’s?
Researches show that the highest the degree of fitness in any given plastic surgery, the stronger the likelihood of positive outcome and optimal recovery. In the end, factors which altogether help in the final result. Fortunately, so too the internet provided plenty of helpful and cheerful database on every detail within the plastic surgery embodiment. As such competitive rates and alternative stakes, odds against and preparation checklist. Yet foster the internet reliable source of before-and-after pictures sought after as a clue up with plastic surgery hints.
Further keep another key element in mind that plastic surgery is not suitable for everyone’s needs. Let us consider disability as a fact for invasive techniques by seeking other cosmetic options. Smokers, obese or those severely distressed and under conditions like diabetes, heart disease or hypertension don’t stand for plastic surgery as eligible able-bodied candidates.
Certain key factors should be held accountable when considering whether undergone plastic surgery procedure.
- Can you spare the time expenditure required in fully recovering? Plastic surgery by and large demanded long periods of recovery and rest, as of essence for expected results.
- Were you made well-aware of possibly risks and complications? How would you handle unexpected results or complications?
- Are you seeking something as extreme that is plastic surgery as challenging in order to please yourself or someone else’s?
Thinking of Cosmetic Surgery?
Three years ago, when a 15-year-old British girl decided to get breast implants for her sixteenth birthday, the story made headlines around the world. Since then, media reports have continued to speculate that cosmetic surgery, once the exclusive domain of wealthy older women, is a trendy new option for any teenager with an adolescent hang-up.
Dr. Darrick Antell, a top New York City plastic surgeon, says he has seen an increase in the number of teenage patients but cautions against calling it a trend. “One of the main reasons for the increase is visibility: today’s teenagers are growing up with parents who have had cosmetic surgery, so they see and hear about it more. The media has also done a good job of making people aware of the procedures available. Another reason is acceptability. In a way, plastic surgery has come out of the closet,” Dr. Antell says.
When details of cosmetic procedures are frequently discussed on talk shows and published in magazines, it’s not surprising that they filter into our consciousness. “Sometimes when I’m out to dinner with my friends, we’ll play a game called ‘What would you have done?’ where we sort of daydream and discuss what we would do if money was no object and the procedures were safe,” says 18-year-old Alison Preiss, an Ontario high school student. While Preiss doesn’t think she could actually go through with a procedure, she says it could go either way. “I could grow up to realize that there are more important things than my nose, or it could really bother me to the point where I decide to have surgery. I suppose it depends on my lifestyle and career choices,” Preiss says.
Suzanne Ma, a 19-year-old Ryerson University student, has considered a double eyelid procedure popular in Asia. “I’m Chinese, and I don’t like my eyes. I don’t have double eyelids, so I feel that my eyes look a lot smaller than they really are. My concerns are not entirely for cosmetic reasons. With my heavy eyelids, my eyelashes don’t grow out properly. Some of them get trapped under the eyelids and it’s very easy for me to get an infection,” Ma says.
As in North America, plastic surgery is booming overseas, especially in wealthier Asian countries like Taiwan and Korea, where it is seen as a way to improve career prospects and self-confidence. In China, women and some men are paying thousands of dollars to have a brutal surgical procedure performed that lengthens their legs so they can fulfill height requirements often used to narrow down the number of job applicants.
Although reasons for cosmetic surgery range from getting a better look to improving job prospects, often the common factor among patients is more than skin deep. “Teenagers who are thinking about having plastic surgery to change the way they look are often addressing issues of self-esteem,” says psychotherapist Dorothy Ratusny. “Between the ages of 13 and 19, there’s a lot of emphasis on peers and what others think of you. It’s also a time when things such as not being part of the popular crowd, changes in financial situation and divorce can negatively affect a teenager’s self esteem.”
Cosmetic surgery may have a positive impact if your body image is consistently tied to a negative focus on a particular facial feature or body part. Dr. Antell says, “The classic case is a teenage patient of mine who had reconstructive surgery to correct a significant discrepancy between her upper and lower jaws. When she came into my office for the initial consultation she was constantly looking at the floor. After the surgery, she was looking up and smiling. Now she’s singing in her local school group.” Dr. Antell is careful to point out that there are murky areas. “Liposuction is one of those areas. So is breast augmentation because you’re not really sure that the teenager has stopped growing yet. But there are exceptions, for example, if a patient has breast asymmetry.” Dr. Mitchell Brown, a plastic surgeon at Sunnybrook and Women’s College Health Sciences Centre in Toronto says, “Correcting breast asymmetry, when women develop breasts that are different in terms of shape and size, can be appropriate for teenage girls because it causes a very significant psychological impact on them during their developmental years.
Doctors are very aware of the psychological drama affecting our lives and it has become a very important factor when evaluating a patient. Dr. Brown says, “The key thing from my perspective is to assess physical, emotional and psychological maturity before treating a patient. I spend a great deal of time with my patients, regardless of their age, to determine that they have thought out their concern carefully and have reasonable goals and expectations.” In other words, cosmetic surgery can improve a patient’s body but it won’t necessarily improve their self-image or guarantee happiness. Dr. Antell says, “I’ve done liposuction on a Sports Illustrated swimsuit model. This is somebody most people would think looked perfect. But she was very insecure. She didn’t see herself the way others did. I can’t give people confidence.”
So, if you’re considering cosmetic surgery you need to ask yourself what you hope to achieve because it’s not going to be the one magic solution that makes everything better. In fact, it may even change you for the worse—just surf the Web and read the thousands of horror stories from people hoping to find peace of mind or happiness by going under the knife.
Dr. Ratusny says, “[Teens] need to be really realistic with the fact that cosmetic surgery may be only one piece of many things that serve to improve aspects of themselves. There may be physical changes but the real change begins with who they are inside.”
Dr. Darrick Antell, a top New York City plastic surgeon, says he has seen an increase in the number of teenage patients but cautions against calling it a trend. “One of the main reasons for the increase is visibility: today’s teenagers are growing up with parents who have had cosmetic surgery, so they see and hear about it more. The media has also done a good job of making people aware of the procedures available. Another reason is acceptability. In a way, plastic surgery has come out of the closet,” Dr. Antell says.
When details of cosmetic procedures are frequently discussed on talk shows and published in magazines, it’s not surprising that they filter into our consciousness. “Sometimes when I’m out to dinner with my friends, we’ll play a game called ‘What would you have done?’ where we sort of daydream and discuss what we would do if money was no object and the procedures were safe,” says 18-year-old Alison Preiss, an Ontario high school student. While Preiss doesn’t think she could actually go through with a procedure, she says it could go either way. “I could grow up to realize that there are more important things than my nose, or it could really bother me to the point where I decide to have surgery. I suppose it depends on my lifestyle and career choices,” Preiss says.
Suzanne Ma, a 19-year-old Ryerson University student, has considered a double eyelid procedure popular in Asia. “I’m Chinese, and I don’t like my eyes. I don’t have double eyelids, so I feel that my eyes look a lot smaller than they really are. My concerns are not entirely for cosmetic reasons. With my heavy eyelids, my eyelashes don’t grow out properly. Some of them get trapped under the eyelids and it’s very easy for me to get an infection,” Ma says.
As in North America, plastic surgery is booming overseas, especially in wealthier Asian countries like Taiwan and Korea, where it is seen as a way to improve career prospects and self-confidence. In China, women and some men are paying thousands of dollars to have a brutal surgical procedure performed that lengthens their legs so they can fulfill height requirements often used to narrow down the number of job applicants.
Although reasons for cosmetic surgery range from getting a better look to improving job prospects, often the common factor among patients is more than skin deep. “Teenagers who are thinking about having plastic surgery to change the way they look are often addressing issues of self-esteem,” says psychotherapist Dorothy Ratusny. “Between the ages of 13 and 19, there’s a lot of emphasis on peers and what others think of you. It’s also a time when things such as not being part of the popular crowd, changes in financial situation and divorce can negatively affect a teenager’s self esteem.”
Cosmetic surgery may have a positive impact if your body image is consistently tied to a negative focus on a particular facial feature or body part. Dr. Antell says, “The classic case is a teenage patient of mine who had reconstructive surgery to correct a significant discrepancy between her upper and lower jaws. When she came into my office for the initial consultation she was constantly looking at the floor. After the surgery, she was looking up and smiling. Now she’s singing in her local school group.” Dr. Antell is careful to point out that there are murky areas. “Liposuction is one of those areas. So is breast augmentation because you’re not really sure that the teenager has stopped growing yet. But there are exceptions, for example, if a patient has breast asymmetry.” Dr. Mitchell Brown, a plastic surgeon at Sunnybrook and Women’s College Health Sciences Centre in Toronto says, “Correcting breast asymmetry, when women develop breasts that are different in terms of shape and size, can be appropriate for teenage girls because it causes a very significant psychological impact on them during their developmental years.
Doctors are very aware of the psychological drama affecting our lives and it has become a very important factor when evaluating a patient. Dr. Brown says, “The key thing from my perspective is to assess physical, emotional and psychological maturity before treating a patient. I spend a great deal of time with my patients, regardless of their age, to determine that they have thought out their concern carefully and have reasonable goals and expectations.” In other words, cosmetic surgery can improve a patient’s body but it won’t necessarily improve their self-image or guarantee happiness. Dr. Antell says, “I’ve done liposuction on a Sports Illustrated swimsuit model. This is somebody most people would think looked perfect. But she was very insecure. She didn’t see herself the way others did. I can’t give people confidence.”
So, if you’re considering cosmetic surgery you need to ask yourself what you hope to achieve because it’s not going to be the one magic solution that makes everything better. In fact, it may even change you for the worse—just surf the Web and read the thousands of horror stories from people hoping to find peace of mind or happiness by going under the knife.
Dr. Ratusny says, “[Teens] need to be really realistic with the fact that cosmetic surgery may be only one piece of many things that serve to improve aspects of themselves. There may be physical changes but the real change begins with who they are inside.”
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