The Orlando Plastic Surgery and Beauty Network

Product of the Month: Neova Creme De La Copper

2012-01-24T07:59:00.002-05:00

Neova Creme De La Copper delivers powerful nourishing agents to dramatically improve the skin's moisture barrier and reduce the visible signs of photo-aging.

Schedule your complimentary consultation with Amanda Chapman, our Paramedical Aesthetican, to see if Neova Creme De La Copper is right for you!

Is Stress Aging You?

2012-01-23T09:56:00.001-05:00

With a busy and stressful Holiday season coming to an end, you may find yourself wondering why your skin is lacking a New Year luster? The body reacts instantaneously to daily stressors. It has been proven that the stress hormone, cortisol, can sneak up under your skin – adding years to your appearance.

Redness, Acne, Dryness and wrinkles are all effects that can be caused by stress. Luckily, we offer many options here at Aesthetic Enhancements Plastic Surgery to help get your skin back in tip–top shape!

Fine Lines/Wrinkles
The negative effect stress can have on your skin can lead to premature aging. Fillers and injectables, such as Botox, Restylane and Juvederm, are an excellent way to eliminate pesky fine lines and wrinkles.

MiXto Laser Resurfacing is also a great option to help revive and rejuvenate the skin's overall texture and appearance. The light beams work to heat and vaporize the skin's tissue, removing any wrinkles or discoloration, while stimulating collagen production.

Redness
Applying anti–inflammatory creams, such as Revale Night Cream, can help soothe the skin and reduce redness. Light laser therapy, such as IPL, can also zap away broken capillaries and/or red spots leaving an even complexion.

Acne
A careful combination of medical grade products and salicylic peels can remedy signs of acne. These treatments can unclog pores keeping them clear of excess oil and dead skin cells.

Dryness
Cortisol can hinder the skin's ability to retain water and moisture – leaving your skin dull and dehydrated. For a healthy glow, we recommend using medical grade moisturizers, such as Neocutis Journee, to hydrate the skin and lock in moisture.

Don't let your complexion put a damper on the start of your New Year – Call today to schedule your personalized consultation with our Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner, Michelle Boone or our Paramedical Aesthetician, Amanda Chapman. We offer a variety of beauty solutions that will have your skin glowing in no time.

Liposuction Myths Revealed!

2012-01-20T06:52:00.002-05:00

Considering its popularity, you've likely heard or read about liposuction — you may even know people who have had the procedure done. But how much do you really know about liposuction surgery? A popular misconception about liposuction is that fat can return to the body after the procedure. Myths abound. It's time to get the facts.

During liposuction, fat cells are permanently removed from beneath the skin using a cannula, a thin hollow tube, along with the assistance of a gentle vacuum. The fat cells are dislodged and extracted, making it impossible for them to reappear. The treated area will now have fewer remaining fat cells than before your procedure. If there is weight gain after surgery, the remaining fat cells will expand. Future weight is therefore more evenly distributed over the entire body.

In order to achieve optimal results, Dr. Soto recommends maintaining a healthy lifestyle by eating right and exercising regularly. Though liposuction should not be viewed as a weight loss solution, it can be an excellent solution for trimming problem areas and enhancing the contour of the body.

To ensure your happiness and safety, choose only a board certified plastic surgeon. Dr. Armando Soto offers only the safest and most effective means of body contour improvement available today with VASER Liposelection. If you have any questions or concerns when it comes to cosmetic surgery, call to schedule a complimentary consultation. Dr. Soto would be happy to answer any questions you may have.

The Importance of Winter Skin Care

2012-01-19T13:09:00.000-05:00

Even though the temperatures may only drop enough to give us that winter chill for a few days at a time, our skin changes quite a bit during the winter season.

Are you noticing itchy skin, dry patches and redness? How about dry, cracked lips? These are all signs that the cooler weather is getting the best of your skin.

Our Paramedical Aesthetician, Amanda Chapman, has put together a few quick and easy tips to keep your skin glowing all throughout the Winter season!

You may be wondering why your skin has changed so much even though you are using the same products and skincare regimen you always do. The lack of humidity combined with a drop in temperature can lead to dry, irritated and itchy skin.

During the cooler months, you will most likely need to step up your moisturizer to one that is more hydrating.

If you typically use a lotion, switch to a cream that will be more emollient. If you already use a heavy cream, try adding a moisturizing serum underneath to layer in the extra hydration such as our Sesha Nutritious Lipo Serum that contains evening primrose and carrot oils.

Though it might be tempting to jump into a toasty, hot shower - DON’T do it! This will not only dry out but also cause irritation to the skin.

For a sweet cure to rid your pout of dry lips, check your pantry for two household items: brown sugar and olive oil. By mixing these two ingredients together and making a paste, you will conjure up a fabulous, and inexpensive, lip exfoliant to slough away dead skin. This concoction can be used 1-2 times a week to leave cracked, peeling lips looking and feeling kissably smooth.

Follow this with your favorite lip balm applied throughout the day and at night before going to bed .

Amanda also recommends any product that contains shea butter, such as L’Occitane’s Shea Butter Lip Balm Stick or Korres Lip Butter for a soft and healthy pucker!

Paramedical Aesthetician, Amanda Chapman

Visit Us:

www.DrArmandoSoto.com

www.MommyMakeoverOrlando.com

www.BrazilianButtLiftOrlando.com

www.CoolSculptingOrlando.com

www.NeoGraftOrlando.com

www.MixtoOrlando.com

www.facebook.com/AestheticEnhancements

www.twitter.com/DrArmandoSoto

How To Care For Your Breast Implants

2012-01-18T09:48:00.000-05:00

Thanks to a large celebrity following, including Hollywood starlets such as Kate Hudson, Megan Fox, and Gisele Bundchen, the topic of breast implants is not nearly as taboo as it once was. Over the past decade, breast augmentation surgery has been glamorized by the media – and as result, many women are not fully aware of the maintenance required to ensure a lifetime of healthy, beautiful breasts.

Massaging your implants and having routine check–ups plays a key role in safeguarding your aesthetic outcome. Here at Aesthetic Enhancements Plastic Surgery we use quality, FDA approved Mentor implants, and Dr. Soto recommends having them exchanged every 7–15 years depending on the type of implant. Saline implants should be replaced every 7 to 10 years. While silicone implants last a bit longer – normally 10 to 12 years.

When having a mammogram, it is important to inform the technician of your implants – just to be sure that extra care will be given. There is no need to worry about mistaking the implants on a mammogram reading for a potential disease – an experienced doctor would easily be able to distinguish between the two.

Deciding to undergo breast surgery is a very personal choice, one that requires much deliberation and careful research. If you are interested in learning more about breast surgery options, call today to schedule your complimentary consultation with Dr. Armando Soto. He looks forward to helping you achieve your aesthetic goals.

Exposure to Chemicals in our Environment is a Serious Health Hazard

2012-01-17T12:10:00.000-05:00

I knew I couldn't be the only plastic surgeon seeing women disfigured, infected, and injured as a result of cosmetic surgery procedures performed by "doctors" (sometimes the practitioner is actually a doctor who is not trained in plastic surgery, and sometimes they are not even MDs) in offices, hotel rooms, and private homes...

Follow the link to read more:

http://www.ktnv.com/news/local/133512108.html

Enter To Win Our Signature Facial

2012-01-13T15:34:00.021-05:00

Each month we draw the name of one of our lucky readers to win our Signature Facial. We are proud to be the ONLY practice in Orlando offering this unique, therapeutic, exfoliating, Italian facial!

Relax as ruby crystals combined with azelaic and kojic acids, are hand-applied and massaged into the skin's surface. Antioxidant botanicals are delivered through the massage and masking applications allow for revitalization and hydration of the skin.

This pampering treatment reduces fine lines and wrinkles and decreases hyperpigmentation without side effects or down time.

*Safe for rosacea, acne and ethnic skin types.

It's simple! Become our fan on Facebook and subscribe to our newsletter for your chance to win!

2011's Top Celebrity Plastic Surgery Stories

2012-01-12T11:00:00.002-05:00

Did they or didn’t they? The secrets of celebrity plastic surgery are revealed! Learn more, as Shape Magazine uncovers Hollywood’s best and worst outcomes of 2011.

http://www.shape.com/celebrities/interviews/secrets-celebrity-plastic-surgeon-revealed

Why Researching Your Plastic Surgeon is Critical to Your Safety

2012-01-11T14:47:00.001-05:00

With the number of cosmetic surgery deaths and injuries increasing on a daily basis, the concern for patient safety is more alarming than ever before.

Read the article below as the The Chicago Tribune warns patients against uncertified doctors, and urges patients to do proper research before selecting a Plastic Surgeon.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/ct-x-1228-cosmetic-procedures-20111228,0,4180530.story

Introducing... The Neova Renaissance Peel at Aesthetic Enhancements Plastic Surgery

2012-01-05T12:20:00.004-05:00

January’sTreatment of the Month

Begin the New Year with a wintery glow...and a relaxing treat for yourself! Try the latest addition to our Spa Service Menu - The Neova Renaissance Peel.

This medium strength chemical peel utilizes a combination of lactic, salicylic, resorcinol and retinoic acids to encourage exfoliation of the epidermis and molecular restructuring of collagen. This process effectively reduces pore size, controls acne and hyperpigmentation, softens fine lines and wrinkles and improves overall skin texture.

Recommended for all skin types. Delivers visible results after a single treatment, optimal results are achieved with a series of 3 or more.

Call today to make your appointment with our Paramedical Aesthetician, Amanda Chapman!

New Year, New You!

2012-01-04T15:29:00.002-05:00

With the start of a fresh New Year, many of us are setting resolutions and thinking of ways to look our best in 2012. Here at Aesthetic Enhancements Plastic Surgery we offer a variety of options, including a procedure known as fat grafting, to help rejuvenate your look and take years off your appearance.

As we become wiser and more mature, our facial fat slowly diminishes by about 5 milliliters per year after the age of 30. Luckily ladies, there is something you can do about it! Fat grafting, facial fat rejuvenation or fat transfer – no matter what you call it - this miracle treatment can help regain precious fat that can make any women look instantaneously younger. While dermal fillers typically last from 6-18 months, the results from fat transfers are permanent!

Fat grafting can be done throughout the face and body. Smile lines, cheeks, temples, lips, under eyes and even the buttocks are all common areas that are fantastic sites for a fat transfer procedure. Fat cells are carefully harvested from donor site in such a way that it protects the integrity of the cells. A board certified plastic surgeon, such as Dr. Armando Soto, is trained to precisely inject the fat without harming these cells and allowing them to flourish.

Most patients of a healthy weight have more than enough “happy” and viable fat for this procedure. However, with any type of surgical procedure, it is important to be in good health and have realistic expectations. Call today for your complimentary consultation.

Another Sad Liposuction Story

2011-12-28T18:30:00.006-05:00

Another sad story makes headlines in L.A. - A man allegedly posing as a Physician’s Assistant was arrested for performing liposuction and now faces up to 12 years in state prison with a bail set at $750,000.

Read the full article here:

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2011/12/22/BAFO1MG3LN.DTL&tsp=1

Sadly enough, similar cases are happening all over the country. For this reason, we can not stress enough the importance of finding a Plastic Surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

Also, take a look at Dr. Armando Soto's video titled “How to Choose a Plastic Surgeon” for tips on planning your cosmetic surgery.

Why Winter is the Perfect Time for Laser Resurfacing

2011-12-26T07:34:00.003-05:00

With the frosty weather upon us, most of us plan on spending the majority of our time indoors for Winter. For this reason, now is the perfect time to schedule your MiXto laser treatment.

The MiXto addresses a variety of skin care concerns including: improvement of acne scars, surface wrinkles, and sun damage, like red and brown spots. On the plus side, the recovery time is extremely short and not uncomfortable. This low risk treatment also requires no anesthesia other than an anesthetic cream. The reason it's so effective with so little down time is because the MiXto laser utilizes "micro–fractionation", i.e., the laser spots are smaller than other fractional lasers, so the recovery is faster without compromising the outcome.

For the deepest acne scars, it may be necessary to have more than one treatment, however, even a single treatment usually results in significant improvement.

For wrinkles and skin resurfacing, the MiXto technology is state of the art. Even one treatment will show improvement in surface texture and smaller wrinkles. A deeper treatment or repeated low–level treatments will show even more improvement over time.

If you have concerns about your skin, call today to book your consultation. We look forward to helping you achieve that flawless, wintery glow!

French Breast Implants Pose Health Threats

2011-12-22T15:28:00.002-05:00

Be careful who you let do surgery on you, Dr. Soto only uses quality Mentor products, the safety of which has recently been confirmed again by the FDA. Also- bad idea to go abroad for plastic surgery for reasons like this....

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/22/health/health-fears-over-suspect-french-breast-implants-spread-abroad.html?_r=1&hp

Helpful Tips for a Happy Recovery

2011-12-22T08:30:00.003-05:00

Preparing for your big day can be a little over–whelming; because of this many patients neglect taking the time to consider what the recovery period entails. Here are some simple tips to make the healing process as easy and comfortable as possible.

Have a strong support system. The first few days after surgery will be difficult and a helping hand will be necessary to get around. Making sure you have someone you trust to look after you from the drive home until you are on your own two feet is very important. You also don't want to compromise the outcome of your surgery by over exerting yourself, so let your friends and family help.

Set up a recovery area at your home prior to your surgery. The best space for you to recuperate is somewhere comfortable and central to all your needs, such as a restroom, television, food, water, and a phone. Be sure to have some distractions readily available to help pass time while recovering. Getting up and moving around can be very exhausting, so plan ahead to make it as easy as possible.

Prepare meals. The last thing you will feel like doing is standing in the kitchen preparing your meals, however, it is very important you stay well nourished and hydrated. Having food prepared prior to your surgery is an excellent idea. Bland foods such as crackers and soups are also a great option to avoid nausea and vomiting. We recommend drinking Gatorade and fruit juices as opposed to water to keep hydrated without causing nausea.

Wear Comfy Clothing. Having a proper post–procedure wardrobe is also a must. This is not to make a fashion statement, but rather to find clothing that will be both comfortable and practical. You'll be thankful to have clothes set out that are easy to put on and take off. The less work you have to do, the better. Also, wearing darker colors can help camouflage any bodily fluids or post–care ointments.

Focus on the end result. Don't let the swelling or bruising discourage you. After any surgical procedure, you'll experience downtime and may not look or feel your best for a few weeks. After the swelling subsides, the bruises fade and the new you will shine through – you'll be happy to find it was worth the wait. So be patient and give your body the time it needs to heal.

Select Your Surgeon Wisely. And last but not least, the number one tip to achieve a happy recovery and post–operative experience is to have realistic expectations AND to select only a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon. You can rest assured knowing that you are receiving the best care and are in safe hands with someone who has the proper education and training.

Leave Those Holiday Jiggles Behind!

2011-12-21T06:08:00.005-05:00

As the Holiday events and social gatherings loom on the horizon, you may find it to be quite a challenge to stick to a stringent diet during the festivities. Now is the perfect time to start thinking about the many options we offer to help get back your once trim silhouette post holiday season.

To shape and contour the body, Dr. Soto uses a form of liposuction called VASER liposelection. Vaser is an advanced form of liposuction that harnesses the power of ultrasonic wavelengths to liquefy fat cells and tighten skin, while minimizing the damage inflicted upon surrounding blood vessels and nerves. This means that patients experience less bruising, less pain, and fewer health risks than with traditional liposuction procedures.

Dr. Soto makes tiny, inconspicuous incisions and flushes fluid throughout the targeted area just under the surface of the skin. This forces the blood vessels to tighten and fat cells to expand, easing the removal of the fatty tissue. Then, a specially designed cannula is used to remove the fat with gentle suction until the desired contour is achieved.

Another option that may be used alongside VASER Liposelection, or as another option for small pockets of excess fat, is CoolSculpting by Zeltiq. In the hands of a fully trained and experienced provider, like Dr. Soto and his staff, CoolSculpting can permanently reduce subcutaneous fat by 20–25%. Without the use of needles, incisions and the need for recovery time, CoolSculpting can be used to reduce fat in the love handles, abdomen, hips, bra, thighs and arm areas.

Utilizing cryolipolysis, the technology takes advantage of the fact that fat cells freeze and die at much higher temperatures than the surrounding tissue. We have seen consistently positive results by exposing areas to the precise temperature at which fat will freeze. During the next 8–12 weeks following the treatment, results will develop as fat cells are absorbed into the body through its natural cleansing cycle, which is part of the process known as programmed cell death.

To ensure your happiness and safety, choose only a board certified plastic surgeon to perform your fat reduction procedure. Dr. Armando Soto offers only the safest and most effective means of body contour improvement available today. If you have any questions or concerns when it comes to cosmetic surgery, call to schedule a complimentary consultation. Dr. Soto would be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Lip Reduction Surgery Increases in Popularity

2011-12-20T11:58:00.002-05:00

Lip injections are an excellent way to increase the size and fullness of the lips - creating a youthful, pouty smile when performed correctly by an experienced provider. However, as a result of added exposure from celebrities such as Angelina Jolie and Lisa Rinna, this cosmetic trend has spread like wildfire leaving many with a look that’s just a little too unnatural.

While it is much easier to create the look of larger lips than it is to reduce them, luckily, there are options offered by Board Certified Plastic Surgeons. Read the article below to learn more.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/robert-tornambe-md/lip-reduction-surgerya-co_b_1068138.html

Plastic Surgery is More Popular Than Ever

2011-12-19T07:28:00.003-05:00

There is no denying that when you look and feel good about yourself, you radiate a sense of confidence and happiness that some might deem as priceless. For this reason, despite such harsh economical conditions, the popularity of plastic surgery continues to increase.

Though some might be tempted to cut corners and pinch pennies, when it comes to selecting your plastic surgeon – choose wisely! Don’t fall victim to alluring marketing tactics. Be sure to do your research and choose a surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. We guarantee it won’t be worth the extra savings to compromise your safety or outcome.

http://www.thedailybeast.com/newsweek/2011/12/11/plastic-surgery-is-more-popular-than-ever.html

Plastic Surgery After Weight Loss

2011-12-16T06:05:00.003-05:00

The great accomplishment of a new, thinner figure is a feat that not everyone can fully enjoy due to the hanging reminder of a formerly heavier self. After losing a substantial amount of weight, it is extremely common to have excessive sagging skin. Luckily, there are options offered by experienced, board certified plastic surgeons, to remedy this concern.

Take a look at the article below to hear the story of one man’s journey through weight loss, as he illustrates why many need plastic surgery after such a dramatic change.

http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/45590135/ns/today-today_health/t/sagging-face-final-hurdle-after-shedding-pounds/#.TuixFZFFgJv.email

Why Jane Fonda Decided to Change Her View On Plastic Surgery

2011-12-15T05:36:00.005-05:00

We’re all too familiar with the saying “Don’t judge a book by its cover”, when it comes to decisions about plastic surgery, Jane Fonda teaches us just how important it is not to judge until we’ve walked in another’s shoes.

Jane Fonda was once among the many women who vowed never to resort to plastic surgery - in fear of resulting in an artificial look. Through the years, as Jane grew older and wiser, she decided to reverse her stand - and is now proud to be able to look just as good on the outside as she feels on the inside. Not only was able to achieve a natural looking result, she also admits to being happier now more than ever.

Take a peek at article below to find out why she’s had a change of heart, and to see just how fabulous she looks today, at age 73.

Jane Fonda: Why I chose plastic surgery

Report says blood clot led to plastic surgery patient's death

2011-12-14T09:16:00.001-05:00

Amazingly, and even as we here in Florida consider legislation to protect patients from unscrupulous doctors who perform procedures on patients with full knowledge that they (the doctor) do not have the necessary training to do so, other parts of the country are still learning...

The doctor in this report, who was trained in Family Medicine, performed a breast augmentation on a patient in a Med-Spa. She died the next day as a result of a complication of the procedure.

Should he be held responsible? The courts and the Massachusetts Medical Board will have to decide.

Can these types of complications happen even in the very best of hands? Yes.

Do I believe that the risk of terrible, or even tragic consequences is dramatically lower if you make the right decisions (Surgeon Certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery, Facility Certified by The American Association for the Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgical Facilities, Board Certified Anesthesiologist or qualified nurse anesthetist)? WITHOUT QUESTION.

As ridiculous as it is, we spent the better part of 100 years in this country refining and improving our method of educating and training physicians, and the majority of the world followed our lead, as it because clear that specialty training led to overall better outcomes and higher levels of safety. But because the laws governing what unscrupulous doctors do in their offices or in unregulated med-spas do not proscribe practicing outside their area of training, the lessons learned over those 100 years have been discarded- and patients are paying the price.

Follow the link to the story:

Report says blood clot led to plastic surgery patient's death

It Looks Like our Leaders May Finally be Waking Up!

2011-12-14T08:59:00.000-05:00

I encourage every citizen of Florida to immediately call their representatives in support of this bill. There is ample proof that there are always going to be doctors who are willing to deny their oaths for monetary compensation... It therefore MUST fall to the government to regulate in the interest of public safety.

Story after the break:

http://www.sun-sentinel.com/health/fl-hk-liposuction-restriction-20111212,0,4573891.story

Legislative Alert - New Good Samaritan Protection Bill Introduced

2011-12-13T15:16:00.001-05:00

Legislation has recently introduced The Good Samaritan Health Professionals Act - an Act to help protect medical volunteers from lawsuits during a large-scale disaster and ensure that vital health care services are available to disaster victims.

Read below to learn more and to see how you can help make a difference. We encourage you to contact your Member of Congress to help support this critical piece of legislation.

Legislative Alert – New Good Samaritan Protection Bill Introduced

Protect Patients Now needs your help in support of an important, bi-partisan bill introduced last week in the US House of Representatives. Contact your Congressman today to ask him to cosponsor H.R. 3586, the Good Samaritan Health Professionals Act, to ensure patients have access to vital, on-site medical services in the wake of a natural or man-made disaster.

As the nation witnessed during Hurricane Katrina and other recent disasters, there was a critical shortage of medical volunteers on the ground to assist those in need. Due to inconsistencies in federal and state laws, these volunteer health care professionals have been turned away or limited in the scope of their assistance because of the threat of medical liability lawsuits.

The Good Samaritan Health Professionals Act would help protect medical volunteers from lawsuits during a large-scale disaster, and ensure that vital health care services are available to disaster victims.

HCLA and Protect Patients Now urge our grassroots supporters to contact their Member of Congress today and ask them to sign on to this critical piece of legislation.

Click here to Contact Congress now and ask your Representative to co-sponsor H.R. 3586, the Good Samaritan Health Professionals Act, in order to preserve access to medical care during a federally-declared disaster and protect our critical health care providers from medical lawsuit abuse. Thank you for your continued support of medical liability reform!

Wrinkles Be Gone!

2011-12-12T06:15:00.002-05:00

Have you noticed some wrinkling, crepe skin texture, and sagging in the neck area?

It could be the early signs of what some call a “turkey neck”, a combination of changes in the connective tissue, musculature and fat in the face and neck. As we age, our facial and neck fat decreases, and our connective tissue and muscle begin to sag. The result is jowling around the jaw line, a flat–faced appearance and drooping in the neck area, which can be severe, especially when viewed in profile. When combined with loose, crepey skin underneath the chin, you have a Turkey Neck. Not a nice sounding problem, is it?

There are several solutions for a turkey neck, such as:

» Mini–facelift, with or without Mixto Laser Resurfacing
» Neck lift, without or without face lift
» Mixto Laser skin tightening
» Liposuction

If you’re seeing a Turkey Neck in your mirror or in recent photos of yourself, schedule a time to visit with Dr. Soto to find out the best treatment for your specific degree of aging.

Healthy Eating for Anti-Aging

2011-12-09T06:08:00.002-05:00

Skin that glows from within is a sign of youth. A nutrient-rich diet plays a huge role in maintaining that young look! The reverse is true as well! The worse your dietary choices, the more sallow and wan your complexion. You are what you eat, as they say. It's especially hard to eat right during the holiday season when, everywhere you turn, you're being offered sweet treats, candies, special drinks, and rich food laden with fat, processed carbs and calories.

Focusing on leafy greens like broccoli, kale, spring lettuces, spinach and sprouts, and foods high in the right kinds of fats-fatty acids that is-such as avocados, nuts and seeds, can help regulate cellular functions and keep skin in top shape, even if you miss a little sleep! So, load up on the healthy foods before you go out! You'll feel better-not just the next day, but well into the holidays and the New Year!

If you'd like a skin care regimen tailored to your skin's needs, call today to schedule a complimentary consultation with our Paramedical Aesthetician, Amanda Chapman. We look forward to helping you achieve that perfect winter glow.

The Psychological Benefits of Plastic Surgery

2011-12-08T08:28:00.004-05:00

Could plastic surgery change your life? After having plastic surgery, many experience a new found, overall sense of self-happiness and confidence that could lead to a whole new world of possibilities. Take a look at one female CEO’s story as she explains why she opted for 10 plastic surgery procedures.

http://www.cnn.com/2011/12/05/living/why-ceo-opted-for-plastic-surgery-o/index.html?hpt=hp_bn8

The 411 on Breast Implants and Breastfeeding

2011-12-07T10:16:00.003-05:00

If you have had breast augmentation surgery, or you are considering having your breasts enlarged, you may be wondering how your implants may affect your ability to breastfeed. The fact is, in most cases, breast implants should not cause any problems with breastfeeding or milk supply.

If Dr. Soto makes an incision under the fold of the breast or in the under-arm, it is unlikely that you will have difficulty breastfeeding. Incisions made around the areola may increase nipple sensitivity, causing some discomfort in the first weeks home with your newborn, but this surgical technique should not negatively affect milk supply or your child's ability to latch onto the nipple. A skilled plastic surgeon will be able to avoid any damage to the milk ducts as well as the nerves that trigger milk production. If you had underdeveloped breast tissue before your augmentation, you may encounter some difficulty with lactation, but pumping after each time you nurse can stimulate milk production.

If your baby seems hungry or dehydrated, speak with your pediatrician, as these are signs that you may not be producing enough milk.

Fat Transfer - Fresh vs. Frozen Fat

2011-12-06T07:25:00.003-05:00

Fat transfer can be an excellent option to help contour many areas of the body - making you look and feel better about your appearance. Here at Aesthetic Enhancements, Dr. Soto has experience using fat to enhance the buttocks, smile lines, cheeks, temples, lips and even under the eyes.

Take a look at the article below as researchers debate the benefits of frozen fat versus fresh fat.

http://www.wpbf.com/health/29661622/detail.html

Underground Plastic Surgery On The Rise

2011-12-05T08:16:00.003-05:00

Underground plastic surgery procedures continue to grow exponentially as unlicensed doctors target victims looking for bargains on plastic surgery procedures. To be sure you are in safe hands, it is important to select an experienced plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

Take a look at this top story featured in Las Vegas - an unlicensed "doctor" is arrested for practicing illegal cosmetic surgery procedures at home in a makeshift operating room.

http://bcove.me/tr2fpveo

Hot Mama!

2011-12-02T06:18:00.003-05:00

Any mother knows that building and supporting a family is not an easy task, and while the love you have for your children is indescribable, the sacrifices you make for them are undeniable. The trim and toned body that you proudly flaunted in your youth may never look quite the same after pregnancy, even if you hit the gym every day and eat nutritiously. Your breasts may droop once you are no longer breastfeeding, and the skin around your midsection may sag more and more after each of your beautiful children is born. Fortunately, beach cover-ups and control-top pantyhose don’t have to be your fate. Dr. Soto is a Mommy Makeover expert, and can help return your body to its pre-motherhood state in all the right places.

Moms often consider themselves the lowest priority when they spend their life caring for their kids, their spouse, their career, or their friends, and that commitment to others is just one more reason you deserve to be happy in your own skin. A Mommy Makeover usually consists of a combination of several different procedures all targeting areas of the body that typically fall prey to the effects of childbearing. Depending on the outcome of your consultation, your personal makeover might include one or more of the following procedures:

· Breast Reduction

· Breast Enlargement

· Breast Lift

· Tummy Tuck

· Vaser Liposelection

· CoolSculpting by Zeltiq

Plenty of Blame to Go Around as Deformities, Deaths Mount...

2011-12-01T07:24:00.001-05:00

It would take a legendary lapse of reason to not see clearly that when women allow someone to inject an unknown substance into their faces and bodies, they are arguably just as responsible for the outcome and any injury that results as the person injecting the material.

Further, as despicable as I think it is to advertise expertise in cosmetic enhancement of the face and body, knowing that you have none, and knowing that what you are really offering is the injection of materials bought at Home Depot, from the side of the doctor-patient divide on which I sit I can also unfortunately see how the behavior of even "real" doctors has contributed to this growing problem.

There is no doubt in my own mind that patients' constant exposure to some of the unscrupulous advertisements placed by some physicians performing cosmetic surgery increases the odds of them being preyed upon by one of these Home Depot practitioners...

By so aggressively (and in my opinion fraudulently) marketing their "painless", "no-down-time", "instant", "completely natural", and "lunchtime" improvements, these doctors are sending irresponsible messages.

As always, I would add that these types of advertisements are proscribed by Membership in The American Society of Plastic Surgeons, which holds all of us to a very strict Code of Ethics. These facts are the reason advertisements placed by (most) surgeons Certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery are inherently more trustworthy than (most of) those placed by non-members. We're held to a higher standard.

http://cnn.com/video/data/2.0/video/us/2011/11/30/nn-fake-doctor-victim.hln.html

Black Market Silicone Implants Nearly Causes Death

2011-11-30T12:10:00.002-05:00

Stars like JLo, Kim Kardashian and even Pippa Middleton have recently created a worldwide wave of envy causing women to seek out plastic surgery procedures, such as the Brazilian Butt Lift, in hopes of a more curvaceous backside.

The Brazilian Buttlift procedure is the latest and safest trend in plastic surgery when performed by an experienced board certified plastic surgeon, such as Dr. Armando Soto. However, the demand for this relatively new procedure has caused many untrained and irresponsible “providers” to attempt to imitate such results with the use of lethal components.

Click the link below to read more about recent headlines, including a young woman in Baltimore who was hospitalized after receiving illegal buttock injections.

http://abcnews.go.com/Health/silicone-butt-injections-leave-woman-hospitalized/story?id=15020077#.TtYsgHPajbJ

Groupon Ads "Pressuring" Plastic Surgery Banned

2011-11-29T11:17:00.002-05:00

In the midst of the Holiday season, many shoppers find oodles of steals and deals that seem just too good to be true - and when it comes to bargains on plastic surgery they are most likely just that.

While many patients fall victim to such marketing traps, it is important for consumers to be educated when making decisions about plastic surgery. When selecting your plastic surgeon, you should know that an ethical, responsible plastic surgeon would NEVER engage in this kind of behavior.

We applaud the Advertising Standards Authority for taking a stand against such irresponsible behavior, as they outlaw ads pressuring consumers into plastic surgery. Take a look at the article below:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/2011/nov/23/groupon-cosmetic-surgery-ad-banned?newsfeed=true

FDA Affirms Safety of Breast Implants

2011-11-28T07:43:00.002-05:00

After much debate and rigorous scientific review, the FDA affirms breast implants are both safe and effective.

Take a look at this article published in the NY Times:

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/09/01/health/policy/01fda.html?_r=1&ref=plasticsurgery

Vaginal Rejuvenation On the Rise

2011-11-24T00:36:00.007-05:00

Below-the-belt plastic surgery, including labiaplasty, is on the rise among today’s modern women. We see many patients here at our Orlando Plastic Surgery and Skin Care Center that seek vaginal rejuvenation procedures in hopes to remedy genital pain or sexual satisfaction - while others may have cosmetic concerns about the appearance of their vagina.

Regardless of the reason, it is always best to select a board certified plastic surgeon that has experience performing this type of procedure, such as Dr. Armando Soto, to ensure that you are in safe hands. Here at Aesthetic Enhancements, we look forward to helping you look and feel better about yourself – call today for a complimentary consultation.

Take a look at the link below to learn more about one woman’s journey through her personal plastic surgery experience.

http://www.yourplasticsurgeryguide.com/other-procedures/labiaplasty.htm

Quick Cosmetic Tips for the Holidays

2011-11-23T16:44:00.002-05:00

As the holiday party season quickly approaches and New Year’s Eve galas loom, questions arise about which beauty options can have you looking your best for this year’s festivities. With time to spare, there is no time like the present to start scheduling your cosmetic calendar with treatments to help you achieve that perfect winter glow!

Non-Invasive Body Contouring

If you haven’t heard, CoolSculpting is the coolest way to lose inches this season – literally! Utilizing cryolipolysis, a process coined by CoolSculpting by Zeltiq, this innovative technology exposes your fat to a temperature just below freezing - causing your fat cells to fight off and eliminate each other.

In the hands of a skilled provider, CoolSculpting can permanently eliminate small areas of fat and help lose inches in areas such as: love handles, muffin tops, bra fat and arm fat in just as little as 8 weeks. This treatment is an excellent option for both men and women. All of this with little to no discomfort - thanks to its frigid temperatures.

High Tech Skin Care

If the texture and discoloration of your skin is on your hit list, MiXto Laser Resurfacing may be just what you need to achieve that flawless complexion you’ve been longing for. The MiXto Laser reduces sun and age spots while smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles. The light beams heat and vaporize the skin tissue, instantly removing any wrinkles or discolorations, while stimulating collagen for new skin to form.

In as little as 2 months, you will notice a dramatic difference in the overall texture of your skin and will have a fresher, younger looking complexion with only a few days of downtime. Many of our happy patients have experienced results from the MiXto treatment comparable to that of a facelift, or even better!

Beauty Pick-Me-Ups!

Eliminate Wrinkles

Let's hear it for wrinkles--for those fabulous frown lines and high-kicking crow's-feet. What crucial moods they so subtly express! Eliminate fine lines and wrinkles in an instant with Botox, a toxin that can improve the appearance of facial wrinkles by stopping the muscle contractions that cause them. Botox is an excellent solution for erasing worry and anger lines, while taking years and cares off the most fretful visage.

Get Glam Lashes

Toss those false lashes and splurge for the real deal for this New Year’s Eve celebration with Latisse. Latisse is the first FDA approved prescription that allows for the growth of thicker, fuller and longer lashes. The application process is as simple as applying eyeliner and you will start to see its glamorous results shine through in as little as 8 weeks.

While some beauty goals are easily achieved in a short period of time, others may take longer. The best strategy is to schedule your complimentary consultation with Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Armando Soto, to help establish a comprehensive beauty plan that will have you stealing the show at this season’s events. Call today – 407.218.4550 or visit us at: www.DrArmandoSoto.com

Fix-A-Flat Butt Enhancement - Another Reason to Do Your Research Before Selecting A Plastic Surgeon

2011-11-23T09:37:00.003-05:00

Another sad story makes headlines as a young woman in South Florida allows a self-proclaimed "doctor" to perform a butt enhancement procedure using a lethal cocktail consisting of Fix-A-Flat, cement, mineral oil and super glue.

http://z6mag.com/offbeat/fix-a-flat-butt-cement-mineral-oil-super-glue-butt-enhancement-plastic-surgery-gone-wrong-163199.html

Unfortunately, the shocking number of women that have similar procedures continues to grow - even right here in Central Florida. For this reason, we cannot emphasize enough the importance of selecting a board certified plastic surgeon, such as Dr. Armando Soto, when considering any type of cosmetic surgery.

The Powers of Anti-Aging

2011-11-22T13:16:00.001-05:00

Mixto Laser: Dr. Soto has been a leader in the field of facial rejuvenation techniques for years, and he continues to update the technology we use here at Aesthetic Enhancements on a regular basis.

In order to provide patients with unparalleled results in anti-aging, we use the revolutionary Mixto laser, a Micro-Fractional CO2 laser made by Lasering USA. The results we have seen in treating red and brown spots, fine lines and even deeper wrinkles are comparable to those possible with traditional CO2 lasers, but this technique is much gentler on the skin, with less pain and a faster healing process. Most patients report their pain levels after treatment as a “1 or a 2” on a scale of 1-10.

Like the Mixto, non-ablative fractional laser treatments are nearly pain-free, but require a full series of treatments over a period or weeks or months. Mixto is the best of both worlds, offering beautiful results with minimal discomfort while also reducing your financial investment and requiring less time in our office. The Mixto can also be used to treat visible signs of aging on the neck, arms, hands, and décolletage, which is not recommended with traditional CO2 lasers.

Intense Pulsed Light™ (IPL): This laser technology, which uses photo rejuvenation, is truly a breakthrough in the fight against aging skin. The technology has been FDA-approved, and can provide dramatic results for a variety of skin conditions associated with aging, including age spots, unsightly veins, fine lines, and other blemishes. IPL treatments prompt the skin to produce fresh tissue without damaging the dermis, so there is virtually no risk of complication and no recovery time. It is incredibly versatile and can even treat more than one condition simultaneously. Like the Mixto laser, IPL can be used to treat the neck, chest, hands and arms in addition to the face.

How many will die before we all learn?

2011-11-20T15:31:00.000-05:00

As I have been saying for quite some time, we're only seeing the tip of the iceberg as far as our awareness of illegally performed cosmetic surgery procedures.

Yet more proof that I am unfortunately probably right- from South Florida:

http://www.cnn.com/2011/11/19/us/florida-injection-buttocks/index.html?hpt=hp_t3

Coolsculpting featured on Dr. Oz

2011-11-20T14:54:00.000-05:00

Yikes! When having Plastic Surgery, it's important to be sure your Doctor is actually a Plastic Surgeon.

2011-11-02T11:42:00.000-04:00

You don't want to learn this lesson the hard way...

Can Fillers Slow Down the Aging Process?

2011-11-01T10:07:00.002-04:00

It seems women have one common wish (whether they admit it or not) to look at least five years younger than they truly are. Unfortunately, maintaining a youthful appearance is not easy to achieve. After age 30, women begin to loose an average of five milliliters of volume in their face per year. Simply put, time is not on our side, ladies! Thankfully, injectables can help us to put our best face forward! There are three types of injectables our Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner, Michelle Boone, uses to help us age more gradually and gracefully: Toxins, Traditional Fillers, and Collagen Replacers.

Toxins

Fine lines and wrinkles are the first signs of aging and can creep up on us when we least expect it marking their spot for years to come. Wrinkles can easily be treated with Botox or Dysport which both immobilize the facial muscle to relieve the wrinkle leaving you with smooth, wrinkle-free skin. These injectables are used to temporarily treat glabellar lines, forehead lines and crows feet for up to six months. Therefore, they do not have any effect on slowing down the aging process, only making you more beautiful along the way.

Traditional Fillers

Dermal Fillers, however, leave a longer lasting footprint. Fillers are a liquid or gel substance that fill in wrinkle lines and shallow contours without disturbing facial muscles.

Juvederm, Restylane, and Perlane are made of hyaluronic acid which is a naturally occurring substance found in the body that promotes fullness and elasticity. These temporary smooth gel fillers are used to reduce the appearance of marionette lines, smile lines and nasolabial folds. Though the volumizing effects of the treatment fade over time, the results are immediate and can last up to one year.

Unlike other dermal fillers, Radiesse goes one step further. Not only does it add instant volume with it’s calcium-based microsphere agents, but is also a biostimulator. This means Radiesse works with your body to stimulate new collagen production that replenishes the volume of your face. The re-volumizing effects, depending on how your body reacts to the product, can last up to a year or more in most patients. With instant results, you can expect to look and feel your best the moment you walk out our door.

Collagen Replacers

Sculptra Aesthetic is a collagen replacer - which works differently than the traditional, temporary fillers. It is composed of poly-L-lactic acid which is injected deep within the dermis to provide a foundation for your body to reproduce it’s own collagen. Sculptra solely focuses on replenishing lost volume to gradually give you a younger, fuller complexion over time. With an average of three treatments, the product itself can last from two to five years depending on the individual and can be used proactively to slow the signs of aging due to it’s biostimulating capability. Unlike traditional fillers, the effects of Sculptra remain after the product degrades making it the ultimate in age-defying fillers.

If you are looking for ways to rejuvenate your skin’s appearance with the most natural touch, visit Michelle for a complimentary consultation. With over 13 years of experience and expertise in non-invasive cosmetic treatments for anti-aging, you can trust you will receive the best care and skill behind the needle while attaining your aesthetic goals. To learn more about anti-aging procedures offered at Aesthetic Enhancements, view Michelle's video below.

The Monthly Safety Report- Deaths and Injuries from Silicon Buttock Injections

2011-10-31T09:10:00.000-04:00

Unfortunately, this phenomenon is not going away... Because of our large latin population (many of whom would like to look more like J. Lo), Orlando is rife with "doctors" promoting hotel room "pumping parties".

While I am not aware of any patients in Central Florida who have died as a result of the procedure, I see a few women every few months with terrible infections and hard lumps in their buttocks as their bodies try to expel and wall off the silicone. In almost all of these cases, there is nothing I can do to help them.

There are only two safe ways to improve the appearance of your caboose, ladies... Buttock implants, or a Brazilian Butt Lift- and neither should be performed by anyone other than a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon.

Having a great looking butt is a nice goal- and saving money is too... but it doesn't matter how much money you saved or how good your butt looks at first if the procedure ends with you dead or permanently disfigured.

Follow the link above for the full story, or just click here:

http://consumer.healthday.com/Article.asp?AID=658122

A Miracle for Mommies

2011-10-27T12:10:00.001-04:00

Whether you're a brand new mommy or your child rearing days have long passed, it's quite possible that after having children, your breasts lost volume and your formerly flat tummy became lumpy as a result of stretch marks and uneven pockets of fat. For many moms, their formerly svelte figure is now a sad and saggy shadow of the hot bod they had before they started a family. But don't be discouraged, because we have solutions available for you here at Aesthetic Enhancements Plastic Surgery no matter what your current age! 

A Mommy Makeover procedure is a cure for the post-baby droops! Imagine your bust back to its original position - your tummy flat and firm and most of your stretch marks gone.

If you're still in pretty good shape and just need a little liposuction to trim chunky thighs, back fat or love handles, a bit of vaser liposelection is an option that can be done alone or as part of the Mommy Makeover. If you miss having a perky bottom to fill out your shorts, swimsuits and slacks, a buttock lift can firm and lift your derriere to its formerly frisky location.

Breast enhancements are a marvelous way to add more youth to your figure. Breasts that have become saggy but still maintain volume can benefit from a breast lift. If your breasts are both sagging and have lost volume, a breast augmentation with a lift can be just the ticket to filling out your swimsuit and evening wear, bringing back the firm bustline you lost during breastfeeding.

If you'd like to learn more about The Mommy Makeover procedure, call today for your complimentary consultation with Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Armando Soto.

Restore Your Youthful Appearance with Fat Grafting

2011-10-25T13:48:00.002-04:00

With the cooler weather just around the corner, many of us are already thinking of ways to look our best for this year’s Holiday season. Here at Aesthetic Enhancements Plastic Surgery we offer a variety of options, including a procedure known as fat grafting, to help rejuvenate your look and take years off your appearance.

An Answer to Cellulite

2011-10-20T16:34:00.002-04:00

For 90% of women, a panic attack may be in order all because of the something you may or may not be familiar with...CELLULITE! Unfortunately, no one is immune to this dreadful condition – not even beauties such as Uma Thurman, Kim Cattrall or Kim Kardashian. While men can have cellulite too, the fact is women are much more likely to become victims due to the distribution of fat, muscle and connective tissue in the skin.

Although the cause of cellulite cannot be pinpointed to any one factor, it can be attributed to a combination of things, such as: genetics, diet, hormones, skin elasticity and lifestyle.

While the jury is still out on a cure for cellulite, there are a few different ways we can camouflage it:

Use a self-tanner to even out skin tone and blend in the tiny imperfections. Check out this post on our very own recommendations for the best self-tanners.

Endermologie, a machine assisted deep tissue lipomassage, helps reduce the appearance of cellulite. Sessions should be done at least 1-2 times per week for a total of 10-14 treatments to see optimal results. We have many patients here at Aesthetic Enhancements that have been extremely pleased with their results. Call today to set up an appointment to speak to Amanda, our paramedical aesthetician about how endermologie can help you treat your areas of concern!

A confident attitude! Everything looks better when you hold your head high with a big smile on your face.

Saddlebag Solutions

2011-10-19T16:07:00.001-04:00

You may have recently spent time in front of a slew of dressing room mirrors, searching for the perfect fall wardrobe. If you are like most people we know, much of that time was probably also spent evaluating your body and all the little things you wish were different. The truth is, you don’t need to completely overhaul your body. If your main concern is unsightly bulges on the outsides of your upper thighs – sometimes referred to as “saddlebags” – then liposuction, Coolsculpting, or a combination of the two may be the key to a sexy, contoured figure you can be proud of.

Dr. Soto uses a form of liposuction called VASER liposelection. It is an advanced form of liposuction that harnesses the power of ultrasonic wavelengths to liquefy fat cells and tighten skin, while minimizing the damage inflicted upon surrounding blood vessels and nerves. This means that patients experience less bruising, less pain, and fewer health risks than with traditional liposuction procedures.

Dr. Soto makes tiny, inconspicuous incisions and flushes fluid throughout the targeted area just under the surface of the skin. This forces the blood vessels to tighten and fat cells to expand, easing the removal of the fatty tissue. Then, a specially designed cannula is used to remove the fat with gentle suction until the desired contour is achieved.

Another option that may be used alongside VASER Liposelection or as an another option for very small pockets of excess fat, is Coolsculpting by Zeltiq. In the hands of a fully-trained and experienced provider, like Dr. Soto and his Nurse Practioner, Zeltiq can reduce subcutaneous fat by 20-25%. Without the use of needles, incisions and the need for recovery time, CoolSculpting can be used to reduce fat in the love handles, abdomen, hips, bra, thighs and arm areas.  

Utilizing cryolipolysis, the technology takes advantage of the fact that fat cells freeze and die at much higher temperatures than the surrounding tissue. We have seen consistently positive results by exposing areas to cold laser pulses and bringing tissue to the precise temperature at which fat will freeze. During the next 6-8 weeks following the treatment, results will develop as fat cells are absorbed into the body through its natural cleansing cycle, which is part of the process known as programmed cell death.

Both women and men can develop saddlebags, but women’s wardrobes tend to be more revealing and fitted in the upper thigh area, and so it can be more difficult and frustrating to try to hide bulges around the butt, thigh and hips. If you are tired of simply disguising your saddlebags, come in for a consultation and find out if eliminating them altogether is the right option for you!

This Fall's Hottest Trends in Plastic Surgery

2011-10-18T13:59:00.001-04:00

While many Brazilian women are known for flaunting a curvaceous figure, you no longer need the gift of genetics to show off a backside resembling these Latin ladies! The admiration for a larger backside has sparked a wave of interest in plastic surgery and has women all over the United States craving the latest trend in plastic surgery – The Brazilian Butt Lift procedure.

The Brazilian Butt Lift offers many women a solution to a more hourglass-like figure AND a voluptuous hiney. This safe and effective technique is almost like having two procedures rolled into one, while reducing recovery time and surgery expenses. Dr. Soto contours the body using a highly skilled technique involving the removal of unwanted fat from certain areas of the body. The fat is then harvested before injection to the peaks of the buttocks, where it will provide permanent and natural looking results.

Whether you are looking for a just a little extra “oompf” or a total derriere makeover, you can expect to have a quick recovery period of 6-8 weeks after surgery. In order to maintain your newfound curves, you will want to refrain from sitting on your bottom for at least 2 weeks.

One more important detail... don’t be fooled into thinking that just any surgeon can safely perform this detailed procedure AND give you the outcome you deserve. This procedure is safe and effective WHEN done by a reputable and experienced Brazilian Butt Lift surgeon who is also certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery, like Dr. Armando Soto. Dr. Soto is among the most respected plastic surgeons, and one of the select few in the United States trained to perform the Brazilian Butt Lift procedure.

So, what does a Brazilian Butt Lift look like? With results so natural looking, many women in Central Florida might say that this procedure performed by Dr. Soto is their best kept secret! Take a peek at our photo gallery to take a look of some of his patient’s results and decide for yourself.

2011-10-13T13:30:00.001-04:00

6 Foods to Help Keep You Young

We all know too well the correlation between the food we choose to consume and our health. When it comes to aging, there’s no stopping Mother Nature completely… However, there are measures we can take to prolong the process. Research shows that certain super foods can actually help keep you looking and feeling younger longer! Don’t take our word for it, try any (or all) of these items and let us know just how much of an improvement you’ve received!

· Eggs – Eggs tend to get a bad rap because of their cholesterol content, and over-indulging is probably not in your best interests, but it’s also true that these little guys are packed with vitamins and nutrients that many people are lacking in their everyday diets. They are fantastic for lowering the risk of developing cataracts, and (perhaps paradoxically) may prevent blood clots, strokes and heart attacks.

Longing for longer, luscious locks? Start eating your omelets for a more healthy and shiny mane. Due to the high sulfur content (and vitamins), many have found have found a surge in hair growth and a better overall appearance - especially those with a B12 or sulfur deficiency.

Almonds- Having trouble remembering things throughout the day? If you want to improve your memory, ginkobaloba is not the only answer. Try a handful of almonds! They are high in monosaturated fat, which has been proven to lower the risk of heart disease and like most nuts,

are a great source of protein.

· Grapefruit- This tart treat is widely known among dieters. Packed with Vitamin C, it will help keep you influenza-free for the winter. Some say just the smell of grapefruit will suppress the feeling of hunger! This super food wonder also helps fight fatigue, which will allow you to get to the gym to melt away the pounds even faster!

· Garlic- Garlic has many wonderful health benefits - other than warding off vampires. It’s healing properties have been found to combat cancer and acne inflammation. Garlic boosts the body’s production of hydrogen sulfide which acts as an antioxidant and in the body helps increase blood flow.

Experts recommend consuming at least 2 cloves of garlic per day to see the full benefits. Sound like a lot? In some countries, it is not uncommon to eat up to 12 cloves of garlic a day! Load up on garlic bread; just don’t forget a breath mint afterwards!

· Blueberries- If it is antioxidants you seek, look no further! These little powerhouses are packed with tons of fabulous health benefits. Blueberries have the most antioxidant capacity of all fresh fruit! According to the University of Michigan, blueberries are believed to be linked to a reduction in belly fat and some factors associated with cardiovascular disease. The fruit also is great for preserving vision, regulating digestion and fighting off “bad” cholesterol.

· Greek Yogurt- A natural alternative to a dessert, Greek yogurt is a thicker version of regular yogurt that packs in twice the protein minus the sugars. The probiotics in this yummy treat will help with digestion and to boost immunity.

If you are lactose intolerant, don’t worry – this creamy delight is strained 3 times which removes lactose. Traditionally, Greeks enjoy this with honey and walnuts on a daily basis.

The Scoop on Non-Invasive Anti-Aging Treatments

2011-10-12T10:34:00.001-04:00

Surgery is not the only solution for those of us wishing to freshen up our appearance. Non-invasive procedures like the MiXto Laser treatment or injectables are also excellent options that can help you look and feel years younger.

The MiXto Laser reduces sun and age spots while smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles. The light beams heat and vaporize the skin tissue, instantly removing any wrinkles or discolorations, while stimulating collagen for new skin to form.

Botox and fillers are still the most popular methods of minimally invasive procedures for those over 55 to revitalize their skin and face. Though surgical procedures may provide more permanent results, when injectables are administered by a skilled professional the outcome can take years off your look.

Our Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner, Michelle Boone, has years of experience beautifying patients and making them look and feel years younger. She offers a variety of treatments to revitalize and freshen your skin’s appearance including:

- MiXto Laser Resurfacing

- Intense Pulsed Light Therapy

- Sclerotherapy (Vein Treatments)

- Dermal Fillers

- Restylane

- Juvederm

- Perlane

- Sculptra

-Radiesse

- Injectables

o Botox

o Dysport

Call today to book your consultation with Michelle Boone - 407.218.4550

New Concern for Women with Breast Cancer?

2011-10-10T09:31:00.002-04:00

As if women dealing with the completely all-consuming circumstance of a breast cancer diagnosis didn't already have enough to manage, the nation's insurers have quietly complicated their lives... A little background:

Until recently, there were laws protecting a woman's right to have breast reconstruction surgery after mastectomy or lumpectomy, and her right to a reconstruction that was aesthetically pleasing and comfortable. This meant that if a patient underwent an initial reconstruction but for whatever reason was displeased with its appearance, symmetry to the other side, or if the reconstruction was uncomfortable or painful, she had the right to visit her surgeon (or another) and undergo a revision- or an altogether new reconstruction to achieve a pleasing, symmetric, comfortable outcome.

For many women, knowing that they would eventually be able to feel "whole" again, without limitations in their choice of garments or lifestyle activities, was an encouraging and empowering influence on how they handled the less positive practicalities of going through the diagnosis and treatment of their disease. It gave them hope- something to look forward to.

But it seems that a great deal of this hope has now been taken away- as most insurers have quietly written clauses into contracts patients sign binding them and all covered under the policy to a single attempt at reconstruction- with all future attempts at improvement or revision classified as "cosmetic" improvements- and therefore not covered under the policy.

I don't think it's necessary to speculate on the motivation behind the policy changes, but for any remaining idealists out there, I should remind you that ALL insurers in the United States are for-profit entities and therefore are ALWAYS interested in paying out less and taking in more $$.

This, in fact, is the essence of why our health care system is broken. The fundamental moral and ethical conflict between those who view patients as human beings needing help (doctors, nurses, patients) and those whose best interests are served by limiting how much is spent taking care of the patients (hospitals and insurers) is a tremendous drain on resources and political energy which could be better spent elsewhere.

But this specific policy is reprehensible for other reasons.

At it's heart, because reconstruction of the breast involves recreation of a 3 dimensional structure without a skeletal framework, there is a great deal of artistry involved in achieving a lovely and symmetric, natural result. In many patients, an initially beautiful outcome will change over time as scar tissue matures and procedures performed on the other breast to improve symmetry also heal. These unpredictable variables, combined with the fact that many of these patients are also undergoing chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy (both of which can significantly affect the outcome of the reconstruction), mean that the great majority of patients will need at least one revision procedure to achieve an acceptable outcome (no matter the skill and experience of the surgeon).

To say that these procedures are "cosmetic" in nature denies the understanding of the above, as well and the years of research indicating the benefit of surgical adjustment over time and the amazing benefit to the patient of achieving a comfortable and attractive breast reconstruction.

Another sad detail is that because historically women did not have to be concerned that they would be "cut off" from procedures designed to restore their appearance after the trauma of mastectomy, and because they are usually already overwhelmed by it all at the time the decision is made, in addition to the fact that in most cases the mastectomy surgeon chooses the reconstructive surgeon based on availability and other factors, the patient almost never has any input into who does their reconstruction.

This really is morally wrong.

The Truth Behind Aging Beautifully

2011-10-07T09:35:00.001-04:00

Have you ever sat on a park bench and just people watched? Ever notice the differences between ethnicities when it comes to aging gracefully? Supermodel Iman recently stated proudly on Oprah: “Black don’t Crack”. While that isn’t necessarily the entire truth, it is believed that darker pigmented women tend to conceal their age better than their Caucasian counterparts.

The skin of Asian, African American and darker skinned Hispanic women all contain more melanin, the substance that gives skin and hair pigmentation. Melanin not only darkens the skin, but also acts as a barrier, protecting the skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Even though melanin may allow for a golden tan after sun exposure, it also increases the risk of scarring and pigmentation problems.

While the most women long for a sun-kissed look, especially during the warmer months, Caucasian women are no exception. These women also tend to spend more time worshipping the sun or utilizing tanning beds in hopes of achieving a golden glow. After sun exposure, the skin actually thickens as a method of protecting itself from further damage - it is precisely that damage that is the number one accelerator in the formation of wrinkles.

Not only do environmental factors play a part, Mother Nature also has a hand in this process. As women age, the skin tends to loose density and fat - especially in the face and neck area. Unfortunately, the skin of Caucasian women is naturally thin, this factor combined with any sun exposure can cause the signs of aging to be more apparent earlier in life than women of other ethnicities.

No matter what your ethnic background may be, it is important to give your skin the chance to look its best! It is important to get at least seven to eight hours of rest per night; maintain a balanced diet and workout routine, and most importantly … avoid sun exposure - or at least wear sunscreen and a hat!

Call Aesthetic Enhancements Plastic Surgery to schedule a complimentary consultation and find out the various options we offer to help you age more beautifully! 407.218.4550

Diet Foods That Will Wreck your Waistline

2011-10-06T16:59:00.002-04:00

If you think you are being good by eating “health” foods, you may want to check out this list of sneaky foods that might seem like a smart choice but in reality can actually cause more harm than good.

Sugar-Free Snacks. With the removal of sugar, manufacturers add in fat and the sugar substitute sorbitol for flavoring. The next time you are tempted to eat sugar-free snacks by the handful, remember that sorbitol when consumed in excess has been linked to abdominal pains, bloating and sometimes even diarrhea.

Ground Turkey. Just because it is poultry, does NOT mean it is any better for you than ground beef. Some ground turkey contains not only the skin but also lots of fat. In a 4 oz. comparison between 90/10 ground beef and ground turkey, the results were surprising. The beef contained 197 calories, 22.4 g of fat and 4.5 g saturated fat. Whereas the turkey had 230 calories, 17 g of fat and 5 g of saturated fat. Moral of this story, make sure you read the nutritional label!

Veggie Chips. Many times, these are nothing more than potato chips that have been dyed with food coloring. If vegetables are not listed in the ingredients, stay away!

Sushi. While sushi is known to be extremely healthy, people take advantage of that label and go all out, devouring 4 rolls at a time. Anything with eel, cream cheese, roe or is fried probably loaded with fat and calories. Instead try to have some edamame as a filling appetizer and a few simple rolls.

Yogurt. This treat is not as innocent as you might think. Flavored yogurts contain nearly 30 grams of sugar in a cup. If you MUST eat yogurt, try plain or Greek yogurt.

Granola. This delicious breakfast treat is dangerous! Many times it is loaded with sugar, corn syrup or honey and oils. While the oats are full of fiber, remember that they should be listed at the beginning of the list of ingredients. Be careful with dried fruits, they will quickly add empty calories. Instead add in fresh slices of fruit into your own homemade mixture!

For more expert advice on how to look your best, visit us at www.drarmandosoto.com!

Freshen Up Your Look with Fat Grafting

2011-10-05T17:06:00.000-04:00

As we become wiser and more mature, our facial fat slowly diminishes by about 5 milliliters per year after the age of 30. Luckily ladies, there is something that you can do about it! Fat grafting, facial fat rejuvenation or fat transfer – no matter what you call it - this miracle procedure can help regain precious fat that can make any women look instantaneously younger.

Fat grafting can be done throughout the face and body. Smile lines, cheeks, temples, lips and under eyes are all common areas that are fantastic sites for a fat transfer procedure. Fat cells are carefully harvested from donor site in such a way that it protects the integrity of the cells. A qualified surgeon, such as Dr. Armando Soto, is trained to precisely inject the fat without harming these cells and allowing them to flourish post procedure. Most patients of a healthy weight have more than enough “happy” and viable fat for this procedure.

As with any type of surgical procedure, it is important to be in good health and have realistic expectations. While the use of injectable fillers, such as Restylane or Juvederm, can restore a youthful appearance, fat transfer can offer a more permanent solution. Dermal fillers typically last from 6-18 months, whereas the results from fat transfers are permanent!

Changing Your Life with Plastic Surgery

2011-10-04T10:35:00.000-04:00

Already thinking about a New Year’s Resolution? Finally tweaking that feature that’s done a number on your self-esteem? Repairing what cancer has taken from you? Or even getting back your hot shape post pregnancy? Everyone has a their own reason for choosing plastic surgery. Today, the rising trend in the U.S. seems to be for men and women of all ages to seek out plastic surgery right around the time of a major breakup or divorce - Nothing helps to heal a broken heart like a rockin’ new body, right?!

While some may see such a pivotal point as a dreaded time in life, others are using this opportunity to restore their mind and body - both mentally and physically! Plastic Surgery can be a great way for patients to gain a confidence boost before jumping back into the dating pool.

However, the most important thing to remember is to make sure you take the time to choose the best board certified plastic surgeon and to carefully think over your decision before going under the knife. Any responsible doctor should get to know his/her patient and make sure that the motivation for surgery comes from within and not solely for a new love prospect or to win the heart of an ex.

If you are wishing to consult with a responsible, board certified plastic surgeon, call today to set up a consultation with Dr. Armando Soto at 407-218-4550.

The Truth About Facial Plastic Surgery

2011-09-29T10:48:00.002-04:00

When you hear the phrase “Facial Plastic Surgery”, images of movie stars such as Joan Rivers and Michael Jackson (with outcomes just a little too “unnatural” to be admired), might be your very first thought. However, many people don’t realize that when plastic surgery is performed correctly by an experienced Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, it should add a soft, subtle hint of youthfulness to your appearance leaving your friends and even loved ones wondering what’s your secret to such a fresh and rejuvenated look?

Unfortunately, our faces show the most prominent signs of aging sooner than the rest of our body…and there is only so much makeup that can disguise unevenness, discolored areas and those wretched wrinkles. Luckily, there are many surgical and non-surgical options available to help turn back the hands of time.

Take a look at some of these options below, and remember that it is important to choose a board certified plastic surgeon, such as Dr. Armando Soto, to help you select the option(s) and to keep you safe during your procedure.

Non-Surgical

- The muscle relaxant, Botox, and dermal fillers such as Restylane, Radiesse, Juvederm and Sculptra are injectable treatments designed to address certain signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles.

- MiXto Laser Resurfacing is an excellent treatment for replacing aged, damaged or acne scarred skin with new skin cells that are firmer, clearer and more youthful.

- IPL (Intense Pulse Light) therapy helps to reduce the appearance of brown spots, blackheads or skin discoloration caused by sun damage.

Surgical

- Blepharoplasty is the surgical rejuvenation of the eyelids to correct sagging upper eyelids and bags under the eyes. The removal of excess skin and fat around the eyes improves a "tired" appearance and droopy eyelids.

- A Facelift is designed to reduce the signs of aging like wrinkles and creases in the cheeks, jowls, and neck leaving a soft and more youthful appearance.

- Forehead lift, or brow lift are procedures that consist of the removal of loose skin and excess fat in the brow line, and the rearrangement of the muscles in your forehead to minimize forehead creases, banish frown lines and reposition expression lines.

Here at Aesthetic Enhancements Plastic Surgery, we offer all of these services among a wide variety of others. We would be happy to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Soto. During your consultation, you’ll have a chance to have all of your questions answered by an expert, view before and after pictures and discuss your goals. Call today to schedule your visit with us - 407.218.4550!

Foolproof Makeup - NEW! Stick-on Eyeshadows

2011-09-20T12:38:00.001-04:00

Many of us spend countless hours trying to create the look of perfectly polished beauty queen before work or a night out on the town! Makeup can be a women’s best friend, when applied correctly… however, trying to get that perfect smokey eye look is not always the easiest task!

Wouldn’t it be lovely if we had a professional makeup artist to powder on the latest shades and make our faces “oh-so perfect” before work, or a night on the town? Unless your America’s next top model, chances are you have to stand in front of the mirror and do it yourself! No worries, thanks to eye shadow stickers a flawless result is now possible with the help if nothing more than a sticker!

The stick-on eyeshadows are a wonderful solution for “on-the-go” women lacking in skills (or patience) with makeup utensils. When you are running late to work, applying eyeshadow is the last thing you want to fiddle with before the sun comes up!

With these stick-ons, just press the shade to your lid, lift, and go! And VIOLA! What a difference perfectly applied eye shadow can make!

Stick-on shadow makes applying eye makeup quick, easy … and even better, foolproof!

Whether you are going for the all-natural look, evening glam, or something funky and fun, these accessories are available in a wide variety of shades and designs to match any outfit. So be a step ahead of the trend and add a little flare to your usual look!

Brazilian Blowout - Safe or Unsafe?

2011-09-16T11:19:00.001-04:00

Don’t worry ladies, I’m not talking about a visit to your nearest waxing salon. The Brazilian Blowout is a keratin hair straightening treatment that promises to give you frizz-free, shiny hair that is more manageable. It is said to keep hair gorgeous for up to 12 weeks and only takes about an hour to complete.

This little miracle procedure has been stirring up quite a buzz! Many women are following in the footsteps of celebrities, such as Jennifer Aniston to get it done. There are also those that have a few questions regarding the safety of this treatment.

The Brazilian Blowout company has claimed to be formaldehyde-free, saying that the products applied are simply amino acids and proteins. But after Oregon stylists complained of eye irritation, nose bleeds and difficulty breathing, OSHA testing found there to be traces of formaldehyde in the product samples taken from 2 Oregon salons. According to safety standards, .2% of formaldehyde exposure is considered “safe”. The salons tests were between 4 and 10%! A Canadian government-based health agency found a whopping 12%.

So what does this mean? Only that the exposure is anywhere from 20-60% above the level that is considered safe and that formaldehyde is a known carcinogen. But then again, that has not stopped people from smoking cigarettes! If the Brazilian were to be applied according to formaldehyde safety standards, clients and stylists would have to use masks, goggles, possibly respirators. That certainly would change the whole serene experience of a spa!

Whether you believe all of the rumors are wary or think that beautiful fuss-free hair is worth the risks, do your homework!

Liposuction Deaths Make Headlines in USA Today

2011-09-15T11:27:00.002-04:00

While the popularity and accessibility of plastic surgery procedures has become more and more commonplace over the past few years, many fail to realize the importance of finding a board certified plastic surgeon when considering plastic surgery. Sadly, the death toll rises once more as a woman in South Florida has lost her life as a result of an unscrupulous and untrained provider trying to make an extra buck.

http://www.usatoday.com/money/perfi/basics/story/2011-09-13/cosmetic-surgery-investigation/50395494/1?loc=interstitialskip

While this shocking story has caught the eye of many as it graces the cover of USA Today, unfortunately, this kind of poor patient care is extremely common right here in Central Florida. ER doctors, gynecologists, and eye doctors alike are currently performing aesthetic procedures with inadequate training in our very backyard - resulting in permanent botched outcomes for many.

Take a closer look at one woman’s tragic story, as she explains the dangers involved when selecting a plastic surgeon based solely on price. As a result of cheap, fast and dangerous plastic surgery, her outcome ending up costing her nearly 10 times the quoted price - not to mention the unnecessary physical and mental suffering she had to endure.

http://www.usatoday.com/money/perfi/basics/story/2011-09-14/risks-low-cost-cosmetic-surgery/50409740/1

Here at Aesthetic Enhancements Plastic Surgery, we stress the importance of finding a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon with the proper education and training to perform your plastic surgery procedure.

Dr. Armando Soto exemplifies a leading edge approach to safety as a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon operating in his nationally accredited, state of the art operating room - much like that you would see in a hospital. With a membership in the esteemed American Society of Plastic Surgeons, as well as the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery you can be assured you are in safe hands. His handpicked anesthesiologists are also each board certified and provide an elite level of medical care.

Remember that finding a board certified plastic surgeon you can trust is a key component to the success of your outcome. It’s unfortunate that a tragedy must take place in order to receive an education in patient safety.

Dressing for Your Body Type

2011-09-13T11:51:00.001-04:00

Some of us might know that there are ways to accentuate our individual body shapes, but sometimes forget. Here are a few tips and tricks to help you dress your best!

Inverted Triangle – If you are fortunate enough to have enviable small hips and ample cleavage, the goal for you is to create the illusion of a more hourglass figure by adding volume to your lower half.

Try a Low V neck – Don’t be shy, show a bit of skin! This look will make your chest look leaner.

Flared or Full skirts or pants – Full skirts look fabulous on you, especially if you accentuate your waist with a belt. If you wear skinny jeans, try wearing boots over them to balance out your shape.

Think Thick – Stay away from teeny tiny straps on your tops, unless you are pairing it with a full skirt. They should be thicker to keep you balanced. Halter-tops are also great options for your body type.

Triangle – If you are blessed with a bootylicious backside, the goal for you is to add some volume to your top.

· Widen your Horizons – Make your top half appear wider by trying boat neck tops, voluminous sleeves or a structured blazer.

· A-line Skirts - Skirts that are most flattering for you tend to be A-line skirts that skim over the hips. Tight skirts or pants with embellished pockets will only draw the eyes downwards.

Jackets that fall right above the hips are best to keep you looking balanced.

Rectangle – Whether you are athletic or just naturally thin, your goal is to create some curves by nipping in at your waistline.

Belts are your BFF – It is important for you to create a defined waistline. Try a colorful belt or shapewear such as Spanx to help nip in the waist.

Feminine Ruffles, empire waist, wrap and halter tops are all great options for your body. Try to steer away from overly clingy or baggy tops which will be less flattering.

Lucky lady - any type of pants will look lovely on your fantastic frame!

Hourglass – The goal for you is to show off your proportionate figure!

Highlight your best attribute – Because you have the “ideal” body type, you don’t have to shy away from any particular area. If you have great legs, why not show them off?

While you can wear any type of skirts, pencil skirts were made for you.

Wide leg and boot cut pants look best on you. If you wear skinny pants, try to pair them with a fuller top to avoid looking bottom heavy.

The Right Way to Diet

2011-09-12T11:31:00.001-04:00

With Summer coming close to an end, the next thing on our list is to find a way to eliminate the extra pounds packed on before the Holidays arrive. By avoiding these common dieting mistakes that make it hard to loose the weight and keep it off, you can start out the Holiday season with a new, slimmer you! Just follow these 5 tips to keep you fit!

Mistake: Crash Dieting
This weight loss method is short term and slows down your metabolism. Bottom line: It doesn’t work. It may cause you to lose pounds for a few short weeks, but eventually you will need to eat regularly again. When you do, you will gain back the weight, and possibly additional pounds. Our bodies naturally slow down our metabolism when we drastically cut back our intake of food to keep us from starving - therefore it’s much harder to lose weight.

Tip: Cut back 100 calories a day and continue to eat a variety of healthy foods. This encourages long term weight loss and won’t slow down your metabolism.

Mistake: Skipping Breakfast
Understandably, people think that by skipping breakfast you will save yourself from a few calories each day. In reality, chances are you will make up for those skipped calories later in the day.

Plus, by skipping your morning meal, your body will automatically store fat instead of jumpstarting your metabolism. Studies show that those that eat a healthy breakfast are slimmer and healthier than those who skip it.

Tip: Eat a healthy breakfast about an hour after you wake up. This will boost your metabolism by up to 10 percent and you will eat less considerably less for lunch.

Mistake: Over-Drinking
With yummy Starbucks at every corner, it’s easy to see how we are drinking extra calories. With food, our bodies feel full causing us to eat less at our next meal.

Unfortunately, high calorie drinks contain “empty” calories that don’t fill us up. We actually can blame about 235 calories a day on our super-sized sodas and caramel mocha frappes.

Tip: Try club soda with a splash of fruit juice, to get the fizz and sweet flavor without all of the calories.

Mistake: Under-Snacking
Eating snacks gets a bad rap, but putting the twinkies and cookies aside, eating nutritious snacks in between meals can be quite helpful when trying to shed some pounds. Hunger can be dangerous due to the fact that you tend to eat more when you are starving. By snacking, you prevent the threat of being hungry and overeating.

Tip: Pack healthy mini-snacks to munch on during the day. The trick is to keep the portions small, but just enough to stop hunger.

Mistake: Forgetting H2O
When we think we are hungry, our bodies might actually be telling us that we need more water. It’s hard for us to distinguish the difference between hunger and thirst because the hormones that let us know when we are hungry are similar to those that let us know when we our thirsty. Next time you think you are hungry, drink a glass of water first to see if the hunger subsides.

Tip: Try to drink water before each meal or snack. It is recommended to drink at least eight glasses a day. Add a splash of fruit juice or slices fruit to add some flavor!

Husbands in the Hot Seat

2011-09-09T14:16:00.001-04:00

When deciding whether or not to go under the knife, many women like to have someone to discuss surgery with before making such a huge lifestyle change. Usually, your significant other is someone you can confide in and tell all your secrets too, but when it comes to plastic surgery many wives and girlfriends find this discussion quite challenging.

Obviously, each man will react a little differently. Surprisingly, many tend to avoid any part of the decision making - simply backing up whatever their loved ones decide to do. This sounds nice and encouraging, but sometimes us ladies like to talk things through and make sure we are ready emotionally and financially before scheduling the big day.

On the other hand, some men take an alternate route wanting ALL the control. They either push surgery on their wife who isn't ready for it or simply say "no way!". Which can pose quite a big problem.

Women should never get plastic surgery for anyone else, but themselves. Hopefully, a responsible, board certified Plastic Surgeon who is looking out for the patient’s best interest will pick up on this controlling behavior and try to work with the wife to assess her personal goals, however, some doctors do tolerate the husband's demands.

This is allegedly true in the case of Sylvester Stallone's girlfriend's breast augmentation surgery. Stallone reportedly entered the O.R. during the operation and requested the doctor to use larger implants than his girlfriend wanted and the doctor abided.

On the other hand, actress Kate Blanchett's spouse went so far to say he'd divorce her if she had any work done. Now that's a sweet ultimatum!

Some independent women decide to go for it without permission of their husbands. It's their body and they will do as they please.

Heidi Montag ignored her hubby Spencer Pratt’s wishes when he asked her to stop with the excessive plastic surgery. Some other celebrities who confess to this behind the back technique are Courteney Cox and Melanie Griffin. Their husbands (in Cox's case, EX-husband) say they love the aging process and think their women are naturally beautiful. Sorry boys, but a girl’s gotta do what a girl's gotta do!

Two celebrity couples that have proven that “communication is key” when it comes to reaching a mutual agreement with cosmetic surgery are Jennifer Grey, Lisa Rinna and their loving husbands.

Jennifer Grey was contemplating having Botox to smooth out her wrinkles before dancing her way across the stage on Dancing with the Stars. After talking it over with her sweetheart, she realized she didn't need it just quite yet.

Lisa Rinna, who had her lips done when she was 25, wanted to have lip reduction surgery. At first, her husband rejected the idea saying he fell in love with her just the way she was. After seeing how much it meant to her, he supported her decision 100%.
Now that's setting a good example for husbands everywhere!

A Makeup Makeover: For Younger Looking Skin

2011-09-06T13:00:00.002-04:00

You might not realize it, but your everyday makeup routine may be doing a bit more than covering up your flaws! It actually can be amplifying imperfections by adding years to your look. Take note of a few simple tricks of the trade to enhance a more youthful appearance!

Unflattering Makeup Habits that Age You...

Dark Eyeshadow
Though the “smokey eye” may look appropriate for an evening on the town, dark eye shadow if not properly applied can look drab and can take the life right out of your eyes. During the day it’s better to wear a light shade that opens your eyes and brightens up your face.

Over Plucked Eyebrows
Shaping the eyebrows is a key component in framing and flattering the face. As we age, over- plucking can be a mistake that many of us make. To help what may seem like a lost cause, use a pencil to fill in and add some shape back to your eyebrows.

When it comes to picking out the right shade for your eyebrows, your natural brow color is always best - you wouldn’t want anyone knowing your beauty secrets, right?

Thickly Lined Lips
Lip liner can work wonders to define, add color and volume to the lips. However, when heavily applied, it can diminish the natural lip shape causing them to appear thinner and accentuating lip lines. A more neutral liner that blends well with your lip color will help to camouflage wrinkles and fine lines.

Caked-on Foundation
Too much foundation can cause the skin to look unhealthy and uneven. With more makeup you would expect more coverage. Unfortunately, a thick layer of foundation draws out your wrinkles and fine lines. To avoid this, apply a primer before applying your foundation. This will help your makeup go on smooth for a dewey, soft glow.

Overwhelming Hues
There are certain shades that you should stay away from when it comes to your makeup selection. Blue eye shadow (unless done professionally) should be an obvious no-no, but many are still holding on to this 80’s look. Not only is it outdated, it also is unflattering , it also does nothing for your skin tone. Neutral colors work best for mature skin such as taupes, browns and earth tones.For a hint of color, stick to warmer hues such as plum, lavender, peach and golds.

When it comes to lips, bright colors tend to highlight flaws and discolorations. Softer, more subtle colors work best for a more youthful look.

See for yourself...

Pam Anderson, 44, wears dark eyeshadow with heavy lip liner and thick foundation looking years older than fellow celebrity Sandra Bullock, 47, who is wearing natural tones with light hints of pinks and golds.

Dr. Soto on Fox 35's Good Day Orlando (video)

2011-08-15T14:34:00.000-04:00

Choosing the right plastic surgeon: MyFoxORLANDO.com

Dr. Armando Soto on Fox's Good Day Orlando!

2011-08-15T14:31:00.000-04:00

I wanted to recap for readers the essentials of my discussion with Michelle of Fox 35 Orlando this morning, as well as elaborate on the important things to know and ask before allowing anyone to do any kind of elective plastic surgery procedure on you.

This discussion was of course brought about by the recent events in the Phoenix area, where a local ER doctor was accused, indicted, and then convicted of second degree murder and manslaughter after 3 of his patients died while undergoing (or shortly thereafter) liposuction.

The case is noteworthy not just because of the fact that 3 human beings unfortunately lost their lives during procedures that should have been very safe for healthy people like them, but because the doctor was found guilty of MURDER, and not just of malpractice.

To review, the prosecutors successfully argued that as Dr. Peter Normann was intelligent enough to complete medical school and training in Emergency Medicine, he should also have been intelligent enough to understand that his complete lack of legitimate training in plastic surgery and liposuction (he took a weekend course) constituted an untoward risk for his patients. In other words, Duh! You're an ER doctor- probably shouldn't be doing liposuction on people.

Furthermore, they reasoned that he should also have had the wherewithal to know that his advertising a level of expertise in these procedures that he clearly did not have, along with his lack of training, and the fact that he performed the procedures in a facility without appropriate accreditation was fundamentally wrong...

Therefore, they concluded that he clearly showed more regard for his income than for his patient's safety, and displayed what they (the prosecutors) called an "extreme indifference" to human life, which met the guidelines for murder in the second degree.

Scary.

So- what should we all take away from this?

Well first of all, as a plastic surgeon, clearly it would be wrong for me to offer to do heart surgery on a patient- as cool as it would be to be able to say I do heart surgery AND plastic surgery, I know it would be wrong.

The amazing thing is that it would NOT be illegal.... At least not if I could talk someone into letting me do it on them in my office under local anesthesia.

And that's a big part of how so many unfortunate patients wind up injured or dead after cosmetic surgery.

Historically, what kept doctors "honest" and prevented them from trying to do procedures on people that they were incompetent to perform, was the hospital credentialing system.

We'll use myself as an example... If I (as a trained Plastic Surgeon certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery) wanted to obtain privileges at a hospital for the performance of liposuction, I would need to submit a great deal of paperwork to the hospital's Credentialing Committee proving that I had received legitimate, ACGME approved training in plastic surgery and liposuction.

The ACGME, or Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, is the body that judges whether residency training a doctor receives is adequate and appropriate before letting them say they are trained in the discipline. From their website:

The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education is a private, nonprofit council that evaluates and accredits medical residency programs in the United States.
The ACGME was established in 1981 from a consensus in the academic medical community for an independent accrediting organization. Its forerunner was the Liaison Committee for Graduate Medical Education, established in 1972.
The mission of the ACGME is to improve health care by assessing and advancing the quality of resident physicians’ education through exemplary accreditation.

If I, on the other hand, asked for privileges performing heart surgery in the same hospital, my request would be quickly denied (and I would probably even be denied privileges in procedures I can prove competence in- just for asking to do something so far outside my area of training) because I would be unable to provide proof of ACGME accredited training in this discipline.

But here's the thing.... What if I could convince people to let me try doing heart surgery on them in my office under local anesthesia?

By avoiding the hospital, I've also avoided the Credentialing Committee.

And there is no law to stop me from doing whatever I want to patients in my office, as long as I have their (the patient's) permission to do it.

It's true- if you were dumb enough to let me charm you into having heart surgery under local anesthesia in my office, I could legally do it. The outcome may not be so good, but I could do it.

And that's why I always tell people that if you could only ask your provider one question, the most important one would be, "Do you have privileges to perform the operation you are proposing for me in a hospital?" (but don't take their word for it- call the hospital and check).

Now heart surgery in an office setting is so obviously ridiculous that there are probably very few people alive who would consent to it (although someone probably would).

But what about if we were talking about liposuction? How hard would it be to distract you from the fact that I might not have the proper training in the procedure and fool you into letting me do it on you?

What if I were able to convince you that the machine I use in my office makes it so easy that you're not really having surgery at all, but rather a "minimally invasive" fat removal?

What if I convinced you that I'm the only one in town who knows how to do it- by giving my procedure a cute name?

What if I (fraudulently) advertised that my procedure was fundamentally different and better than liposuction, and that there was minimal or no downtime?

What if I (falsely) told you that having it done under local anesthesia was "safer" because you don't need general anesthesia?

Now it's not so hard to understand how otherwise intelligent people might put their happiness and safety in the wrong hands, is it?

And believe it or not, there are ER doctors, gynecologists, and an eye doctor here in Central Florida making all of these claims.

So let's all realize the following:

All liposuction is surgery. It doesn't matter what machine is being used, or how you're anesthetized. If someone is removing fat from your body through an incision, however small, you're having surgery.
All surgery has risks (just ask the families of the 3 patients who died in Dr. Normann's OR)
You can minimize your risks by choosing the right surgeon, the right facility, and the right anesthesia provider- and all 3 are important.
Conversely, your risks of a bad outcome are much greater if you let yourself be fooled into having plastic surgery performed by someone who does not have legitimate, ACGME training in plastic surgery.

And with regard to the last point- make no mistake about it, Dr. Normann was not an isolated numbskull. Every large community in America now has ER doctors, gynecologists, family doctors, and even an eye doctor (here in Orlando) calling themselves liposuction experts, despite a lack of ACGME accredited training in the procedure.

How do you protect yourself and those you love?

Do as much research as you can

Research the surgeon

What was his training in?
Is he Board Certified- and just as important- by WHICH BOARD?
Where was his training?

Research the facility in which the procedure is to be performed

Is it accredited? Ask to see the certificate
By whom? Make sure the facility is accredited by The AAAASF or JCAHO

Research the anesthesia provider

Who is taking care of you while you are having surgery is just as important as who is doing the surgery!
Is it an anesthesiologist (a doctor of anesthesia)? PREFERRED
A certified nurse anesthetist? LESS IDEAL
The surgeon himself or a nurse?? BE VERY CONCERNED

Finally, where can you look for these important answers? Here you go...

Check the website for the State Medical Board in the state in which you live. You can learn about the doctor's training (or lack thereof) and much more. For Florida, the link is: http://ww2.doh.state.fl.us/IRM00profiling/searchform.asp
You can also check reputable doctor review sites. The word reputable is critical here... more on that later. The very best is www.RealSelf.com

What makes it the best? Quite simply:
It is complete- there is a wealth of information about doctors, their training, and their outcomes
It is fair- Realself balances doctor's legitimate concerns against patient's in the most fair fashion of the sites out there right now. As I will write about in the near future, there is no perfect site, but this is as good as there is at the present time.
Realself requires doctors market honestly, and only in the specialty in which they actually are trained. Critical.

And finally, if you are still uncertain about a doctor you have seen, email me and I can help you figure out what their training was all about-

And for those cynics out there-- this is not about me feeling competitive. As long as you are in the hands of a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, I'm good.

It's the damage done to the reputation of ALL plastic surgeons and plastic surgery itself by injuries and deaths caused by non-plastic surgeons that I'm trying to prevent here.

Plastic Surgery by a Non-Plastic Surgeon?

2011-07-26T13:50:00.001-04:00

Reprinted from The Arizona Republic:

Liposuction deaths: Phoenix area doctor convicted of murder, manslaughter

by Michael Kiefer - Jul. 15, 2011 10:28 PM
The Arizona Republic

An Anthem physician who had three patients die during plastic-surgery procedures in his clinic was found guilty of murder and manslaughter Friday in Maricopa County Superior Court.

Dr. Peter Normann was pronounced guilty of second-degree murder in the deaths of Ralph Gonzalez, 33, of Scottsdale, and Leslie Ann Ray, 53, of California, and of manslaughter for the death of Alicia Santizo Blanco, 41, of Gilbert.

Throughout the trial, which began June 10, Normann's attorneys, John Johnsonand Vikki Liles, maintained that the deaths were accidental, the result of known risks of plastic surgery, and claimed that if Normann, 50, were found guilty, it would mean that all doctors would be liable for procedures gone wrong.

Autopsy findings had listed the deaths as accidental.

But in her closing arguments earlier this week, Deputy County Attorney Jeannette Gallagher said the "combination of incompetence and arrogance in trying to cover up his (Normann's) incompetence led to their deaths."

Gallagher claimed that two of the deaths constituted second-degree murder because of Normann's "extreme indifference to human life," and the third death was manslaughter because of Normann's "conscious disregard of substantial and unjustified risk of death."

After a day and a half of deliberation, the jury came back supporting Gallagher's side of the story.

Normann's friends and family were surprised at the verdict.

"He is not the monster he's been painted to be," said his friend Cindy Jones. "He's a pure, sweet man."

Liles said she and Johnson plan to file a motion for a new trial, claiming that Gallagher had committed perjury in insisting that Normann did not have inventory of a drug that could have saved the lives of one or more of the patients.

Normann had been an emergency-room physician, certified as an internist, and had never done a residency in plastic surgery or anesthesiology.

Gallagher maintained he had undergone six days of training in liposuction and had done some "hands-on training" in liposuction and breast augmentation. He had never done training in fat augmentation, Gallagher said.

Furthermore, she said, his operating room lacked proper oxygen and monitoring equipment, and he worked without anesthesiologists or nurses, relying on a massage therapist and a former restaurant worker with little or no training as medical technicians.

The massage therapist, who assisted in surgery, has already pleaded guilty to eight counts of unlawful practice of medicine and was sentenced last year to five years in prison.

Gonzalez stopped breathing during liposuction in December 2006, due to what Gallagher called a lethal dose of lidocaine, which is used in the procedure. Then, she claimed, Normann mistakenly inserted a breathing tube into Gonzalez's esophagus instead of his trachea, depriving him of oxygen.

When paramedics arrived, they noted that Gonzalez's belly was distended because of the oxygen being pumped into his stomach instead of into his lungs, and they maintained that they tussled with Normann, who insisted on riding in the ambulance and refused to let the EMTs reinsert the tube correctly.

David Duarte, one of the paramedics, told The Republic after the verdict, "He physically was holding onto it, from the get-go."

Duarte threatened to break Normann's arm and then tricked him into letting go of the tube so he could pull it out. Normann insisted on reinserting another.

Duarte said he filed complaints against Normann with the hospital and the state medical board.

Santizo died in April 2007 during multiple procedures, including repositioning a badly placed breast implant, liposuction and an attempt to inject fat into her buttocks to enhance its shape.

During the fat augmentation, Gallagher said, Normann injected the fat directly into a vein, which carried it to her lungs and killed her.

As had occurred during Normann's attempts to resuscitate Gonzalez, Normann was unable to properly insert a breathing tube.

Duarte, coincidentally, was in the hospital when Santizo was brought in, and he filed another complaint.

After the second death, Normann agreed to a voluntary suspension of his medical license and he hired a homeopathic physician, Gary Page, to do liposuction. Gallagher maintained that as a homeopath, Page was not qualified or licensed to perform such procedures.

Ray had traveled from her home in Blythe, Calif., for the surgery in July 2007, which Page performed with no assistance, serving as surgeon, anesthesiologist and monitor.

After the surgery, Page left the clinic, and Ray was left in a recovery room, where later that night, Normann discovered her in respiratory distress because of a reaction to the combination of drugs she had been given. Normann was again unable to insert a breathing tube when she stopped breathing.

Page was charged with manslaughter in Ray's death, but on Friday, he pleaded guilty to the lesser felony charge of endangerment.

Normann will be sentenced Aug. 19 by Judge Paul McMurdie.

Over the past few years, several things have become clear to me about this significant patient safety issue:

There are some people who will always knowingly and willingly put themselves at risk if doing so will allow them to save a few dollars... These patients probably cannot be helped.
Some physicians are inherently more ethical and moral than others... in other words, and as I have stated many times in the past, the days when it was safe to assume that all doctors were honest professionals with high levels of moral character and integrity are unfortunately over
Doctors with questionable ethics, morals, and training are capable of amazing acts of deceit (if not fraud) in order to attract patients and convince them to have surgery.

The eye doctor here in Orlando who advertises heavily as an expert in liposuction even gives procedures long established in the legitimate plastic surgery community cute, trendy sounding names ("Naturalfill") to make it seem to patients that he is the only one knowledgeable in the technique, and that he has somehow captured magic in a bottle. This violates the code of ethics of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons- but because he is an eye doctor and not a plastic surgeon, he does not have to comply with this important ethical code.
The same eye doctor advertises himself as "Board Certified", without saying in what or by whom. I believe this is actually a violation of Florida law- but again, no one will do anything about it until and unless there are complaints.

The tragic truth (at least so far) has been that when patients are injured or deformed as a result of surgery performed on them by an ER doctor, Eye Doctor (or anyone else without plastic surgery residency training) they almost never complain to the appropriate authorities.
Many Central Florida women don't realize that this problem is prevalent in their backyard. In Orlando alone, there are ER doctors, a urologist, and the eye doctor I describe (!) all claiming to be liposuction experts.

These last 2 facts are what I hope to contribute to changing.

I have found that for patients who have experienced the trauma of misplacing trust for their safety and happiness in someone other than a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, the only thing that they believe could make their situation worse is to have to talk about how they ended up making the poor decisions that lead to their terrible outcome.

I've seen it over and over again in patients who come to see me for correction of problems resulting from surgery performed by local ER doctors and especially the local eye doctor... They want to have their problems corrected, but usually cringe at the notion of having to re-hash the experience as they would have to do if they complained to the authorities with the power to stop these untrained practitioners from practicing plastic surgery. I believe they behave very much like victims of sexual abuse...

Because there is a perceived stigma associated with being "duped" into compromising your safety and appearance, most of these patients won't complain...

But here's the problem... Unless and until patients injured and disfigured complain to authorities, the only way to stop untrained non-plastic surgeons from harming (or indeed killing) more patients is to wait for someone to die- this is the only circumstance that would require the state to investigate without a complaint.

So unless someone dies, without people affected complaining, these doctors can go on performing procedures they are ill-trained to perform on unsuspecting patients- injuring more of them over time.

Please don't let yourself or someone you love be the victim of doctors practicing outside their training. And if you are, please contact the Florida Board of Medicine.

A New Kind of Plastic For Plastic Surgery

2011-07-08T10:44:00.001-04:00

Do you cringe every time you look in the mirror because you’ve always wanted to fill out a pair of jeans like Kim Kardashian or JLo? Good news - you no longer have to save up the pennies in your piggy bank for years on end to splurge for plastic surgery procedures. Care Credit offers an instant solution with payment plans specifically for many cosmetic procedures such as: Mommy Makeovers, Brazilian Butt Lifts, Breast Enhancement procedures and even dermal fillers.

You know that dream home you’ve always wanted and will end up paying for it over the next 30 years? Well, this is kind of the same idea BUT with a shorter payoff time, a higher approval rate…AND you’ll feel like a million bucks as you flaunt your new “assets” everywhere you go (not just when you have company over)!

Whether you need breast reconstructive surgery, a new svelte shape or just a little tweak here and there, we offer a full spectrum of aesthetic services here at Aesthetic Enhancements Plastic Surgery with Care Credit as a payment option. The boost in confidence and overall sense of happiness that comes from being satisfied with your self-image is without a doubt priceless, so why wait?

Call today to meet our Board certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Armando Soto. He’s an expert in making women feel beautiful everyday and would love to see how he can help you. 407.218.4550.

Celebrity Plastic Surgery - Hot or Not?

2011-07-07T17:00:00.001-04:00

Here are some celebrity plastic surgery stories with happy endings! They knew what to fix and when to quit...resulting in a much more natural outcome! The moral of this story: find a plastic surgeon who can enhance your beauty, not totally change it!

Maybe it’s her newly wed glow, but Megan Fox is looking more stunning than ever. Tabloids are making speculations of her going under the knife for multiple facial procedures and a breast augmentation. Either way, she looks great! Now, if we can just work on that attitude problem…

It’s hard to tell if our “Friend”, Jennifer Aniston has had plastic surgery and that’s when you know it is done right! We do know one thing though, she has had a nose job! She told People "I had (a deviated septum) fixed - best thing I ever did. I slept like a baby for the first time in years." ... And just so happened to make her look even more beautiful! Jennifer is also rumored to have had a modest breast augmentation and maybe even more facial procedures, but she won’t let us in on the truth!

Kate Hudson finally gave in... she bought herself new breasts for her 31st birthday! It appears she has small implants which fit the rest of her body nicely. Another lovely example of how less can be more.

Ashlee Simpson underwent rhinoplasty to straighten her crooked nose. Ashlee’s new nose makes her whole face look softer and less edgy. She insists that there is nothing wrong with going under the knife to enhance your looks, but people should take it seriously. It’s not like shopping for a new pair of shoes. Ashlee said, “If people want to get surgery, it's a personal thing. But it's not something anyone should rush into. Once it's done, it's done.”

The infamous mommy of eight, Kate Gosselin, looks great after her tummy tuck! A popular procedure for mom’s to get their pre-baby body back, the tummy tuck made a world of difference for Kate. Though it appears she may have had more work done because of her fantastic body, she denies any other type of cosmetic surgery. Kate says she stays fit by keeping up with her handful of little ones!

Awake & In Office Plastic Surgery Procedures

2011-07-06T08:53:00.003-04:00

As interest in plastic surgery grows, so do the patient’s options in the various surgical methods and techniques offered by their doctors. Unfortunately, not all methods are in the patient’s best interest, even when it comes to your anesthesia. Today, I sat down with Dr. Soto to get a better understanding of why some doctors are apparently disregarding patient safety by promoting awake, in office plastic surgery options for patients.

Q: “Dr. Soto, I wanted to talk to you about how some patients believe that being awake with local anesthesia for plastic surgery is safer than being under general anesthesia. What do you tell these patients?”

A: “Yeah, that’s a really deep and dark pool of water. Here’s the thing, to really understand this problem you have to understand what’s going on in the overall health care environment. Most people know that health care is in financial crisis... For the past 20 years, we have all been hearing about how the cost of health care is going up. Businesses can’t afford to insure their employees and people are going bankrupt because they can’t afford their healthcare.

Beginning in the 70’s, one of the things that occurred is that insurance companies turned everything on it’s ear with the establishment of HMOs. Prior to the formation of these health management organizations or HMO’s, doctors were paid on what was called a fee for service kind of a paradigm. This meant that whether you wanted a facelift or your gallbladder removed you found a doctor, the doctor billed for the service he or she provided, and you either paid it or your insurance company paid it according to the doctor's fee. The idea was that doctor's fees would vary with their skill and reputation. Unfortunately, there were some physicians that did take advantage of this system and directly contributed to elevated healthcare costs.

With the formation of HMO’s, the insurance companies basically took over the power and decision making and started cutting doctor’s pay. That was all done supposedly in order to diminish cost in the healthcare system- which clearly has not occurred. Even a cursory examination of the system would explain why- executives at insurance companies are making huge salaries, and paying themselves astronomical bonuses, with hospitals charging $200 for a single dose of aspirin- and blaming doctors for the ongoing increases in costs even as the reimbursement to physicians goes down.
Combine this with the well-understood toll taken on the profession and the environment by the wild-west medical malpractice culture, and understanding how costs are so high is not difficult.

“Over the period in question, the cost of healthcare has continued to increase astronomically while insurance company executives have increased their income many fold. Some of these guys are making bonuses in the multiple millions of dollars annually. So while the overall cost of healthcare has not gone down, what has gone down is the compensation to physicians. Relative to the overall inflation rate and the cost of living, the average doctor who bases their practice on taking care of insured patients has experienced a significant decline in their income and in their lifestyle. Most doctors still make a pretty good living, so should we really feel sorry for them? It’s hard for us, as an average person, to feel sorry for people who are still making a pretty good income.”

“On the other hand, we need to remember that the average physician has worked very hard over a period of 15-20 years to become a well trained and educated, responsible physician. Most people who have gone to school for that long and have trained for that long expect there to be a reward at some point. If you went to college and worked hard, and then you went to medical school and worked hard to receive the best education you could, and then did residency training, and at the end of all that the investment and hard work somebody tells you that insurance companies and the government are going to cut your pay and you are going to make less and less money and need to see more and more patients, all while constantly suffering the threat of (often) frivolous malpractice suits, it becomes really difficult to not feel frustrated and cheated.

What this has caused is an environment where we have lots and lots of disaffected and frustrated doctors in the United States.

People who have spent years and years learning and training in ways to take good care of people really are not that interested in taking care of people anymore because they don’t feel well compensated. When you combine that with the fact that most people in the country, including all of these unhappy and frustrated doctors, know that insurance and the government don’t pay for cosmetic surgery, the leap form being a trained family practice doctor, a trained gynecologist or even as we have here in Orlando - an eye doctor wanting to do plastic surgery in order to make more money - is not that big of a leap. And so what has happened, unfortunately, is that a lot of these frustrated and unhappy doctors have decided that even though they are not trained to do it, they are going to start doing some cosmetic surgery. This way they can cut the insurance company and the government out of the loop, increase the amount of money that they make, work less hard, and overall have a better lifestyle - the lifestyle they felt they were promised when they first went to medical school.”

“So on the one hand, is it fair to completely blame the doctors who are irresponsibly performing plastic surgery without plastic surgery training? My personal belief is yes, it is.

But some people would argue no, and some people would argue that the responsibility rests on all of society.

We created this environment; therefore, we shouldn’t blame these doctors who in response to the environment we created are doing these things.

On the other hand, doctors are smart people - they wouldn’t be doctors if they weren’t. All of us are supposed to be ethical people too. At some level, all of these people who are performing plastic surgery without plastic surgery training know that what they are doing is wrong. They are doing it because they want to make more money. I have no problem with somebody finishing their training as an eye doctor, an ophthalmologist, such as Dr. Roger Bassin here in town, who then decided that they really wanted to be a plastic surgeon. But if you finish your training for ophthalmology and decide you want to be a plastic surgeon, do it right. Be honest. Go back and get training in plastic surgery. Then you can hang out your shingle and call yourself a plastic surgeon - honestly and ethically. I do have a problem with people finishing training in ophthalmology or in ER medicine. These people are ER doctors and they want to do cosmetic surgery? I think that’s unethical. I think it’s also irresponsible, and I think it’s bordering on fraud. I think they do deserve to be held responsible when things don’t go well because they aren’t trained to do the cosmetic surgery that they are doing. Hopefully, at least with that explanation we can all understand why they are doing it. I think it’s wrong, unethical, irresponsible and it ought to be illegal, but I think that those are the reasons why they are doing what they do.”

“Understanding that there are these people who are not trained in plastic surgery wanting to do plastic surgery, we have to understand what they need to do in order to accomplish that. One of the things in the United States that has always limited what a doctor could do, is the hospital credentialing process.

In other words, I am a board certified plastic surgeon and I have every credential a plastic surgeon could have, but what if one day I decided I wanted to do heart surgery? What if I thought those heart surgeons are making a lot of money. Maybe I would like to do some heart surgery and make some more money myself. What’s to keep me from doing that?

Well traditionally, what has been in place to limit doctor’s practices is hospitals.

In the past, you couldn’t get permission to do an operation in a hospital unless you could prove to the hospital’s credentialing committee that you had legitimate training in that procedure. So when I apply for privileges at any hospital they ask me in written form what operations I want to do there, and then they make me produce proof that I have been trained to do those operations. They then decide if they are going to give me permission to do those operations in the hospital or not. So if one day I decided that I wanted to do heart surgery and I found a nice patient who was willing to let me do heart surgery on her, what would stop me from actually completing that irresponsible plan is that the hospital would never give me permission to do it. They would say, ‘Dr. Soto you are a plastic surgeon. You can’t be doing heart surgery. I don’t care if the patient is willing to let you do it and I don’t care if you want to do it. You are not trained in heart surgery, so we are not going to let you do it.’ ”

“Well unfortunately, there’s nothing to keep doctors from doing whatever they want if they can do it in their office. If you have this eye doctor, or if you have an ER doctor or a gynecologist, and they are willing and able to convince a nice patient that they are able to do a tummy tuck on them in their office (because as I said they would never be able to get permission to do it in a hospital), there’s nothing to stop them. There’s no law that says gynecologists can’t do tummy tucks, or heart surgery for that matter, if they can do it in their office on a patient who is willing to let them do it.

So how do you do these things in the office if you don’t have a board certified anesthesiologists and you don’t have a certified operating room to do it in? Well you have to somehow convince people that doing this operation under local anesthesia is the right way to go.

In the office, under local anesthesia, you don’t need an anesthesiologist, you don’t need an accredited operating room, and you definitely don’t need the permission of a bunch of other doctors and hospital administrators.

So, over the past few years, we’ve seen a number of all types of doctors who are not plastic surgeons telling their patients that general anesthesia is dangerous and local anesthesia is much safer. ‘Why don’t you let me do your cosmetic surgery. We’ll do it right here in the comfort and convenience of my office. You won’t be subjected to the risks of general anesthesia.’ And they scare them by talking about dying, heart attacks and such. They tell them it’s much safer in their office and much easier. ‘You’ll have local anesthesia and you can go home the same day.’ ”

“Well here’s the thing - First of all, they are being disingenuous. If doing things like tummy tucks and breast augmentations were safer under local anesthesia, every board certified plastic surgeon in the country would be doing it that way too. The truth is it is not safer to do it that way. Those things introduce a lot of risks that the average patient wouldn’t take if they knew they were taking them.

The fact is is that general anesthesia is a much safer way to perform these operations. And the fact is that the vast majority of patients who have unfortunately died during cosmetic plastic surgery over the past 5-10 years nationally have died as a result of excess or toxic levels of local anesthesia. Most of the time, the doctors offering local anesthesia for awake plastic surgery do not share that fact with their patients. They also don’t tell them that they are not plastic surgeons and they are really eye doctors, but I guess we already covered that.”

“So the fact is, awake plastic surgery is really not something you should consider, unless you are thinking about a minor procedure. If you are talking about having a tooth removed or maybe even a little eyelid surgery where the area of the operation is a very small area and you are only going to get a little bit of local anesthesia, that is really not a problem. I do those things myself here in my office. But if we are talking about a large operation where you are going to be manipulating muscles and putting implants in and doing things of that nature, that simply can’t be done safely, effectively, or ethically, in my opinion, on an awake patient under local anesthesia.”

Baby Boomers Keep Plastic Surgery Booming

2011-07-05T12:00:00.001-04:00

Every woman wants to look youthful and vibrant, regardless of the age on her driver’s license. While plastic surgery demands in the 18-40 population remains steady, it is no surprise that there has been a jump in women over the age of fifty getting a little nip here and a tweak there.

Many are starting off with non-invasive options such as dermal fillers, laser treatments and Botox. While others are heading straight for the options that will give them the most dramatic results – such as tummy tucks, breast and face lifts!

This increase in middle-aged women having surgery can be attributed to dear, sweet Mother Nature. As a woman ages her skin begins to lose its ability produce collagen and elastin, which in turn leads to drier, thinner skin. Let’s be honest, who wants that? Fillers and volumizers, such as Restylane and Sculptra are great for helping to restore fuller, fresher looking skin while softening the lines of aging. According to The Harvey Medical Group, a UK based medical group, these types of procedures have increased by more than 70 per cent over the past year.

According to the ASAPS, patients between the ages of 51 and 64 account for nearly 25 percent of all cosmetic surgeries performed. Eyelid surgery, liposuction, and breast enhancement surgery are a few of the top procedures among the more distinguished group of ladies.

Another reason that women in their 50’s may be able to undergo more procedures, may have something to do with the fact that they have a higher level of disposable income and sometimes a more flexible schedule than their younger counterparts.

Here are our Orlando Plastic Surgery and Skincare center we have patients of many different backgrounds that come in for numerous different reasons – whether it be to get a tighter tummy or a flawless face. If you have a trouble area that is bothering you, call now to set up a consultation with Dr. Armando Soto!

Smart Lipo...Not So Smart

2011-07-01T19:19:00.000-04:00

With the many techniques for liposuction available today, it’s easy to get confused and wonder which one is really the best? The most important thing to take into consideration is that the instrument used is only going to be as effective and safe as the skills and expertise of the hands behind it – so research and choose your Plastic Surgeon wisely! Your Plastic Surgeon should be an experienced Board Certified Plastic Surgeon whom you can trust will offer only the procedures that are in your best interest.

Smart Lipo is one of the more popular laser liposuction procedures as a result of all the hype in the media. However, it’s safety and effectiveness are still more than questionable. Could it be that many unethical providers are marketing this device and all of it’s wonder to distract from the lack of their own background and education?

Smart Lipo uses a laser light during liposuction to help aid in the removal of your fat. Ads falsely claim that it is less invasive than other methods of liposuction and provides a faster recovery time. The truth is, you must undergo surgery with ALL methods liposuction - there is no way around it regardless of the device being used.

The difference between each method depends on the process in which the fat is eliminated prior to removal. The laser, in the case of Smart Lipo, is considered dangerous when not in the hands of a skilled surgeon and even then the risks can be high. Lasers tend to burn any substance in its path - which can mean fat, but also skin tissue, muscles, and blood vessels, etc. For this reason, it is imperative to choose a board certified plastic surgeon that is highly trained and skilled in Liposuction.

Here at Aesthetic Enhancements Plastic Surgery, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Armando Soto offers only the most safe and effective methods of both traditional and Vaser Liposuction. Dr. Soto believes the Vaser Lipo represents the safest and most effective means of body contour improvement available today. Instead of laser light, Vaser uses an ultrasonic energy to emulsify fat - which is less disruptive to other tissues, making your recovery time much faster, plus fat removal is greatly improved.

For more information on the different methods of Liposuction and to see if Vaser is right for you, call Aesthetic Enhancements Plastic Surgery today for your complimentary consultation with Dr. Armando Soto - 407.218.4550.

Slimming Solution for Summer

2011-06-30T13:23:00.001-04:00

In the past few months, CoolSculpting by Zeltiq is popping up in health and beauty magazines around the world as the slimming solution for the summer! This fairly new, FDA-approved body sculpting technique is the latest buzz in non-invasive fat reduction for small pockets of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise.

Pick up the latest issue of SHAPE magazine and read up on CoolSculpting as it is featured in an article titled “Sculpt your best bikini body ever!” for the summer season ahead. CoolSculpting by Zeltiq is becoming more and more popular thanks to it’s safe and simple application with zero downtime and minimal discomfort.

Visit CoolSculptingOrlando.com for more information on this fat freezing technology and to view before and after photos. Call Aesthetic Enhancements Plastic Surgery today to schedule your complimentary consultation or sign up for a next “Cool Day Out Seminar” on July 20th!

Can Shopping Be Beneficial To Your Health?

2011-06-29T11:40:00.002-04:00

Many of us are actively seeking new and proven ways to increase longevity. Taking vitamins, having a balanced diet and exercising are all great ways to maintain good health, but did you know that you should probably be adding in a little “retail therapy” into your mix?

Don’t think you have to max out a credit card to reap the benefits, merely window shopping will achieve the same results according to researchers in Taiwan. The study looked at 1,841 people aged 65 or over in Taiwan who live independently at home. One of the researchers, Mark Wahlqvist, MD, PhD, visiting professor at the National Health Research Institutes in Taiwan, says "It is of particular interest in that it provides apparent benefit for the less socio-economically advantaged (the poorer) and for men."

Shopping has been found to be a therapeutic distraction from life’s problems. It is also great for boosting the immune system, releasing endorphins to lift spirits, keeping your brain sharp and of course getting your does of quality socializing time with a few close friends. It may also lead to eating better if most of your shopping is done on a Saturday at your comminuty fresh market!

It is no real surprise that those who shop most may be in the best physical and mental shape with a robust social life. Just try not to get too carried away with your shopping sprees – moderation is the key to this type of therapy!

New Bras Tailored Just for Augmented Breasts

2011-06-28T19:21:00.001-04:00

Along with your two new perky assets comes the desire to feel sexy in what lies beneath your everyday clothes. After a well, planned surgery, and recovery period, the last step for many women becomes a hunt for the perfect bra that will not only showcase but also support a newly enhanced figure.

After a breast surgery, many women find it difficult to find a bra that is not only supportive but also sexy at the same time. A supportive bra is “a must” for women with implants! Unfortunately, the more supportive the bra, the less attractive the bra usually tends to be – featuring larger straps and a less revealing neckline.

The search for the perfect bra can be a frustrating process for many patients post surgery. Take a look at the article below on RealSelf.com to find out what Orlando’s Breast Surgery Expert, Dr. Armando Soto has to say about which bras are best for women to wear after breast augmentation:

http://www.realself.com/blog/breast-implant-Alexis-Smith-bras

To view a line created specifically for patients with breast implants, visit: http://www.alexissmith.eu/collections

Plastic Surgery on the Wedding "To-Do" List

2011-06-09T13:34:00.001-04:00

With Summer flowers in full bloom, we also welcome the beginning of Wedding Season! A time when thousands of brides-to-be, regardless of ethnicity, religion and social background are all preparing for their perfect day.

On today’s modern bridal checklist, preparing for “the big day” includes working out, dieting and plastic surgery among many other “to-dos”. The increase in popularity in plastic surgery procedures such as breast augmentation, rhinoplasty, Botox and laser treatments have skyrocketed across the globe for many ready to walk down the aisle.

Now, don’t think that brides are the only ones primping for the big day! Many "grooms-to-be" also are increasingly undergoing plastic surgeries for fat reduction and gynecomastia to get in shape for their weddings as well.

If you are getting married this year and are thinking about having plastic surgery, it is best to keep in mind the amount of time needed to make a full recovery. Some patients choose to have several surgeries that cannot be combined such as a Brazilian Butt lift and a breast augmentation and must factor in additional time to heal.

If you are interested in having a procedure prior to your nuptials call us at 407-218-4550 to set up a complimentary consultation with Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Armando Soto. We would love to help you achieve the look you’ve always desired in time for your big day.

Smart Lipo, Not So Smart...

2011-06-06T14:54:00.001-04:00

New Findings on Propecia...

2011-06-03T11:03:00.001-04:00

Gentlemen, if worrying about hair loss is something that you have been losing sleep (and hair) over, you may want to think twice about seeing your doctor for a prescription to cure it. The Journal of Sexual Medicine recently conducted a study to examine the correlation between the prescription hair-growth drug Finasteride (commonly known as Propecia) and shall we say… problems in the bedroom.

The drug targets the production of testosterone to stop its conversion to dihydrotestosterone, which is associated with hair loss. With this dip in testosterone, romantic desires and performance also tend to take a plunge. While doctors used to believe that problem was temporary, research is finding that the average side effects last up to 40 months - with some up to 6 years!

For Propecia to continue to be effective, a patient must continue to take the medication indefinitely. For most men, this might not be a tradeoff that they are willing to commit to.

Here at our Orlando Plastic Surgery, Skin Care and Hair Restoration Center we offer the latest practice in hair restoration with the Neograft, a revolutionary hair transplantation system. In the hands of our highly trained staff, the Neograft allows for the transfer of hair, follicle by follicle, achieving a more natural look. No need to worry about your secret slipping out, unlike the traditional strip method, the NeoGraft provides permanent and natural looking results without scarring or downtime.

Call today to set up a complimentary consultation with Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Armando Soto, to help regain a natural, full head of hair – 407.218.4550

Summer Fashion-Forward: Accessorize

2011-06-02T12:00:00.001-04:00

Summer Fashion-Forward: Accessorize

The bigger, the better this season when it comes to accessorizing your fabulous Summer attire. Watch out for these fashion trends or better yet get a head start on your spring shopping with these must have add-ons before they’re all sold out!

Obi Belts

Inspired by the traditional Japanese style, these wrap around belts will make your outfit whether it be a pencil skirt for work or a dress for a night out. You can go with a classic, decorative version, or opt for an edgier style with a big leather wrap around belt. Either way it’s sure to be a hit! Check out some of these affordable and chic Obi styles...

Hot Find: ASOS Leather Obi Belt $29.00

ASOS Black Leather Belt $29.00

Big Bangles

So long dainty and delicate, big chunky bangles are back! Feel free to pile ‘em on your wrist, the more the better. Wooden, gold and fabric bangles are a hot commodity this spring and are an inexpensive way to add spunk to any wardrobe.

Hot Find: Aldo Errolys $15

Day Birger Set of 3 $110

70’s Shades

Move over classic Ray Bans, big funky shades are what’s hot this Summer. You’ll want to have a pair of these fun, trendy sunnies to accessorize your eyes on the beach, by the pool or cruising down the highway! Check out these 70’s shades we found at a reasonable price that’s hard to turn down...

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Patient Empowerment is not the same as Entitlement...

2011-06-02T06:45:00.000-04:00

Last week, here in my hometown of Orlando Florida, a young transplant surgeon was murdered by a former patient as he was leaving the hospital. Killed by someone whose life he had saved before he could go home to his young family after what I'm sure was a long and stressful day of work.

As you can probably already tell, I am more than a little disturbed by this...

Over the last 40 years or so, we have seen a general decline in the esteem and respect the general population feels towards the medical profession in general... people respect and trust doctors and scientists less and less, even as the demand for the rapid development of medical breakthroughs grows. We demand that our medical care be state of the art, be cheap, and be directed by us, and that if our outcomes are not exactly what we think they should have been, we want to be able to take it out on the doctor.

It is hard, in the end, for me to disagree with this overall decline, as I myself know better than most people how poorly some doctors behave. On the other hand, reason must prevail, and attempting to harm, injure, or kill your doctor because you didn't get exactly what you wanted is irrational and wrong.

The best outcomes, whether in my aesthetic surgery practice, or in any other type of medical practice, will ALWAYS come from healthy relationships based on mutual respect and commitment to the plan and its execution.

Having a healthy relationship with your doctors begins with a clear understanding that the relationship should be important to you, and that just as with any other important relationship, it will require work on your part to maintain. Placing an appropriate value on the relationship from the beginning will go a long way towards helping you appropriately weigh the advice you get from the doctors in your life, as well as improving the quality of the information you get- it's true... doctors are people too, and we tend to be more engaged when people are nice to us (remember the Golden Rule we learned in Kindergarten?)

You would not expect to have a long and successful marriage if it was one in which only one of you was committed to its success or the happiness and fulfillment of the other, would you? It is similarly impossible for doctor-patient relationships to be successful if patients believe that it is the doctor's responsibility to make them happy, no matter what their own behavior may be.

Just as with any other important relationship, you must communicate with your doctors- completely, honestly, and respectfully.

Too many people treat their doctor's visits like a trip to a restaurant, believing they should be able to request what they want and demand they get it, rather than understanding the partnership nature of healthier doctor-patient relationships, or the fact that the nuances of their problem may make their exact goals impossible. This leads to unreasonable expectations and irrational behavior when they are not met.

The importance of good communication cannot be over-emphasized- it is no more appropriate for patients to be demanding of unreasonable expectations for their outcomes than it is for doctors to be patronizing, condescending, and paternal in their communications with those patients.

The importance of having reasonable expectations is worth further emphasis.

The internet has brought many good things to the delivery of healthcare- patients are better educated at all stages of their care, and this generally contributes to better communication and higher rates of satisfaction. Unfortunately, in plastic surgery, it has also contributed to the occasional development of unrealistic expectations and the restaurant attitude I describe above. Some percentage of the population, when viewing the many before and after photographs available online sees them as choices available to them, or worse, as representations of what they themselves would actually look like if they had the same procedure.

The reality is that the science and art of plastic surgery are actually much more subtle, and the actual outcome any individual patient achieves will depend GREATLY on their individual preoperative anatomy, the details of the operative technique used, the skills and experience of the surgeon, the quality of the anesthesia and postoperative care, and their (the patient's) compliance with all postoperative instructions.

In other words, before and after photographs are valuable, but only as representations of the overall quality of a surgeon's work- NOT as detailed representations of what you as an individual should expect- your body is different than the patient in the photo.

It is very important that once you have found a surgeon whose work you admire, and with whom you think you could work constructively (that is, with whom you think you could have a good relationship), that you listen carefully to his or her estimation of what reasonable goals FOR YOU might be. And I do mean listen.

On the (thankfully) very few occasions when I have had a patient dissatisfied after surgery, without fail, it has been because their expectations for what could be achieved were simply completely incompatible with their starting anatomy- despite my best efforts to educate them and their preoperative assurances of understanding (I even have one irrationally angry young woman who writes bad things about me on the internet because I could not make her congenitally deformed breasts look perfect).

The frustrating part of this is that spending a great deal of time and effort trying to help some people understand their reasonable expectations (as I did with the example patient I mention) does not seem to help if they are not listening and are only hearing what they want to hear...

And again, unfortunately, our modern attitudes towards medicine, doctors, and our unreasonable expectations for perfect outcomes sometimes causes a small and irrational subset of the population to react to the disappointment of an imperfect outcome in an unhealthy manner- like by writing ugly things about the doctor, or worse, murdering him.

I personally believe that, while there are certainly examples of doctors with inappropriate, unethical, and immoral motivations and practice patterns (indeed I write about them often), the majority of us are still honest, hardworking people who want the best for each of our patients. Even the eye doctor in town who (in my opinion) daily compromises his Hippocratic Oath by allowing patients to believe he is a plastic surgeon specializing in liposuction probably does not deserve to be shot. For this to have happened really should be inspiring more outrage among us all than is has.

The Orlando Plastic Surgery and Beauty Network

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