doctor's p.r. medical news

Dr. Roger Bassin Brings The NeoGraft Hair Transplant System To Orlando

2012-01-30T08:31:00.000-08:00

Hairs are “harvested” with reverse air pressure into a holding receptacle, then implanted by gentle air pressure. The “NeoGraft” is the first FDA approved automated device for “follicular unit” hair extraction.

Orlando, FL - Dave Plfaum first noticed his thinning hair about a year ago, and now he has decided to do something about it before it gets worse. Dave will have a new high-tech procedure with the NeoGraft, a device that uses gentle air pressure to rearrange hair patterns. Dr. Roger Bassin is among the first group of doctors in the U.S. to perform NeoGraft hair restoration.

The quest to replace thinning hair with natural-looking results has a new option with NeoGraft, according to Dr. Bassin. The device uses a small hand piece with a tiny tube which is placed over hair follicles. The device then employs gentle reverse air pressure to “harvest” hairs, and positive air pressure to transplant the hairs in thinning areas. Since the device can be used to harvest hairs in a random pattern, there is no huge scar left in the back of the head as in the conventional “strip” method of hair transplants, in which a large section of the scalp is surgically removed and dissected to separate the hair follicles.The NeoGraft can be used on people with virtually all degrees of hair loss in a minimally invasive procedure. "This method provides results which are natural looking, so the hair can be worn as short as desired," says Dr. Bassin.

This procedure also opens the door for many who were not good hair transplant candidates with traditional procedures. "The NeoGraft has changed the way hair restoration is done,” says Dr. Bassin. “Most people don’t want to undergo the “strip” method with the long incision, the more painful postoperative period and potential scarring.”

For more information, enter contact information here.
Doctor's P.R. provides health, aesthetic and medical news and information via broadcast, online and print media. All articles and physician statements are intended for general informational purposes only and are not to be used as medical advice. Always consult a physician for advice on any specific medical condition or when considering any treatment or procedure.

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Stem Cells Mend Torn Meniscus, Treat Knee Pain on THE DOCTORS

2012-01-24T12:51:00.000-08:00

Stem cell research has been a topic of major ethical, scientific and religious debate for years. Proponents say stem cells have the potential to treat physical trauma, degenerative conditions, genetic diseases and can even repair extensive tissue damage.

On Wednesday, January 25, the Emmy Award-winning syndicated talk show THE DOCTORS (check local listings) bypasses the controversy by talking about the health benefits of using adult stem cells to heal one woman’s knee pain. This patient, a Colorado outdoorswoman, was suffering from a torn meniscus and was considering undergoing her second knee surgery in five years. Instead, she found great success from a local clinic which has been actively using patients’ own stem cells as injection treatments for almost eight years.

The type of stem cells found in one’s own bone marrow are called hematopoietic stem cells. They have "multi-differentiative" potential, meaning that they have the ability to generate several distinct cell types. In this patient’s case, her stem cell “concentrate” was injected directly into the tear to help regenerate the tissue in the meniscus. A comparison of MRIs before and after the injection as well as the patient’s ability to run around on-set only a few days after the procedure, demonstrates its effectiveness.

Plus, most patients at this particular clinic have seen a substantial improvement in pain and mobility without the risks of surgery or the down time required to recover. The doctors say that most patients feel relief within just a few days to a few weeks, and procedures can be done for basically any joint in the body, including rotator cuffs, broken fingers, etc.

Doctor's P.R. provides health, aesthetic and medical news and information via broadcast, online and print media. All articles and physician statements are intended for general informational purposes only and are not to be used as medical advice. Always consult a physician for advice on any specific medical condition or when considering any treatment or procedure.
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Dr. Kenneth Light - Spondylosis Neck Pain Treated With Disc Replacement

2012-01-23T14:37:00.000-08:00

by Gary Grasso
San Francisco spine surgeon Dr. Kenneth Light recenty performed a 3-level spinal disc replacement on Robert Bosley, an active 47 year-old pharmaceutical marketing professional living in San Anselmo, CA. For the last 18 years, Robert endured steadily increasing neck pain from “spondylosis”, but he says that he only learned the name of his painful condition a year ago.

Cervical spondylosis (which affects the neck) is caused by chronic wear on the cervical spine. This includes the discs between the neck vertebrae and the joints between the bones of the cervical spine. There may be abnormal growths or "bone spurs" on the vertebrae which can press down on one or more of the nerve roots. In advanced cases, the spinal cord can be affected. Symptoms can occur in the arms, and the legs as well. Everyday wear and tear may trigger these changes, and people who are very active may be more likely to have them. “I’m a very active person,” says Robert, “and I put a good amount of stress on my body through vigorous exercise.” Symptoms often develop slowly over time, but they may start or get worse suddenly, says Dr. Light. “The pain may be mild, or it can be deep and so severe that you are unable to move.”

“Over the years I have tried virtually every way to treat my condition,” says Robert. “I had chiropractic treatments, which ended up causing me to have more pain, not less,” he says. I tried pain medications, and although they helped, the medications cause problems of their own.”

“I also went to two other physicians; the first doctor wanted to fuse two vertebrae in my neck, and the other recommended fusion for three vertebrae,” says Robert. “After researching my options, I decided that fusion would be an outdated treatment and overkill.”

Dr. Light says that in Robert’s case “Fusion would have had long-term detrimental effects on the rest of Robert’s spine and future function. It would have placed further pressure on adjacent disc levels, causing premature deterioration, resulting in further fusion surgeries until his entire neck was fused.”

Dr. Light says that spinal disc replacement is also less painful than a fusion procedure, with a recovery time of 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the complexity of the surgery. “Robert had a 3 level disc replacement and was out of the hospital in less than 24 hours,” says Dr. Light. “Two weeks after surgery, I describe my pain as a 3 on a level of 1 to 10, with 10 being worst,” says Robert. “Before the surgery, the pain was about an 8,” he says. Dr. Light says a major advantage of disc replacement is that it avoids making the spine unnaturally stiff. “The surgery is less invasive and allows immediate movement and rehabilitation.”

Dr. Light says that "Disc replacement is the single greatest advancement in spinal surgery in the last 50 years."

Doctor's P.R. provides health, aesthetic and medical news and information via broadcast, online and print media. All articles and physician statements are intended for general informational purposes only and are not to be used as medical advice. Always consult a physician for advice on any specific medical condition or when considering any treatment or procedure.
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Facial Rejuvenation Treatment Uses Supercharged Blood

2012-01-18T17:12:00.000-08:00

The "Selphyl" treatment uses a person's own "supercharged" blood to stimulate Type 1 collagen production, the so-called "good collagen" for facial rejuvenation, says a Beverly Hills doctor.

Using a small amount of a person's blood, Dr. Andre Berger of RejuvaLife Vitality Institute is using a three step process to prepare an injectable gel which, he says, when injected stimulates the growth of new tissue and collagen. "Selphyl restores volume, which eliminates facial folds and wrinkles naturally," says Dr. Berger. "There is no risk of allergic reaction and little to no bruising, swelling or lumping, as with synthetic injectables. Increased skin volume and rejuvenation occurs gradually as new collagen and blood vessels develop."

"PRFM" is blood plasma with concentrated platelets. The concentrated platelets found in PRFM contain huge reservoirs of bioactive proteins, including growth factors.These bio-active proteins initiate regeneration and repair, promote development of new blood vessels, and stimulate the collagen production process.

To prepare PRFM, a small amount of blood is taken from the patient. The blood is then placed in a centrifuge. The centrifuge spins and automatically produces the gel. The entire process takes 6 minutes and increases the concentration of platelets and growth factors up to 500%.

When PFM is injected into the desired facial areas it triggers the body's healing response, according to Dr. Berger. As a result new collagen begins to develop, and as this collagen matures it begins to shrink, causing tightening of facial lines and wrinkles.

"The Selphyl System uses blood’s natural resources to treat wrinkles and triggers cell migration / proliferation to increase skin volume," says Dr. Berger.

Doctor's P.R. provides health, aesthetic and medical news and information via broadcast, online and print media. All articles and physician statements are intended for general informational purposes only and are not to be used as medical advice. Always consult a physician for advice on any specific medical condition or when considering any treatment or procedure.
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Dr. Michael McCracken Explains Why Some Men Look Feminine After Eyelid Surgery

2012-01-10T17:24:00.000-08:00

by Gary Grasso
Why is it so hard to get blepharoplasty, or eyelid rejuvenation right for guys?
Dr. Michael McCracken, a Denver ophthalmic plastic surgeon describes common errors in male eyelid surgery and explains how to avoid "feminizing" the male face while retaining a masculine look.

Eyelid rejuvenation was the second most popular cosmetic procedure among men in 2010, according to a study conducted by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Eyelid surgery or the use of facial fillers to smooth the appearance of bags under the eyes can take years off a person's appearance - we've all seen the rejuvenating effects on women, but what about men? Why do guys often end up with a feminine, artificial look? (Just consider the photos that have circulated on the internet showing male celebrities who have had their eyelids done.) How can any male patient get a result that looks good, while retaining his masculine facial qualities?

Dr. McCracken's patient
before eyelid surgery

After eyelid surgery,
retaining masculine features

“I think that the most common mistake made by surgeons performing eyelid surgery on men (and also women, by the way) is the removal of too much upper lid skin and fat,” says Dr. McCracken of the McCracken Eye and Face Institute in Parker and Boulder, CO.. “A well- trained eye can spot this in a woman, but even a novice can pick up on the "weirdness" of over-done male eyelids. I think the over-resection has a very feminizing appearance. For example, a woman who has too much eyelid skin & fat removed looks a little weird, but a man can look like a freak!” Dr. McCracken says another common mistake is excessive lifting of the male brow or arching of the brow during a brow lift.

“The male brow is different than the female brow in that: 1) It is lower and 2) It is more straight rather than arched," says Dr/ McCracken. Another anatomic difference is that males tend to have lower eyelid creases than women. Elevating the crease during eyelid rejuvenation can also give a feminized appearance,” he says.

Doctor's P.R. provides health, aesthetic and medical news and information via broadcast, online and print media. All articles and physician statements are intended for general informational purposes only and are not to be used as medical advice. Always consult a physician for advice on any specific medical condition or when considering any treatment or procedure. Comments / questions, email to Gary Grasso, Director at ggrasso@doctorspr.com
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Body Contouring Goes High-Tech in Minneapolis: Dr. Vicky Hagstrom

2012-01-05T16:31:00.000-08:00

Minneapolis, MN - Dr. Vicky Hagstrom, medical director of ANew Aesthetic Medical Center says the VASER Shape system gives impressive results in non-surgical body shaping and treatment of cellulite. The technology uses ultrasound, which disrupts targeted fat cells. The VASER Shape combines two ultrasonic signals that penetrate and combine under the skin to heat fat. Dr. Hagstrom says it is effective for treating specific areas of the body. “We’re seeing jaw-dropping results in cellulite reduction as well,” she says.

Before & after photos of Dr. Hagstrom's patient
showing VASER Shape body contouring results.

“VASER Shape is different than previous fat reduction technologies because it uses two ultrasound heads that are positioned next to each other, with ultrasound energy converging like a “V” below the surface of the skin,” says Dr. Hagstrom. “After the fat has been disrupted, it is absorbed by the body. VASER Shape treatments include zonal massage to drain away excess toxins and fats, working with the body’s lymphatic system to increase local blood circulation.”

Most patients will see immediate results with VASER Shape, says Dr. Hagstrom. “For best results, a series of 4 to 7 treatments are recommended. The speed of the results varies depending on the patient, and after the initial treatments are completed no additional follow-ups are usually needed.”

VASER Shape is designed for targeted fat reduction and can be used to reduce unwanted fat from common problem areas including: the inner & outer thighs, love handles, the abdomen, upper and lower back. “I am impressed with the “shrink wrap” effect of VASER Shape,” says Dr. Hagstrom. Not only does it target and reduce the layer of fat, but it improves the tone and elasticity of the skin, and gives the skin a more youthful appearance. This makes VASER Shape an ideal treatment for the mature body which most often has the dual issues of pockets of fat and lax skin at the same time.”

Dr. Hagstrom says that she sees many women who have had previous invasive procedures, most frequently abdominal liposuction & tummy tucks. “Several years after their procedures, many women experience a redistribution of fat accumulation, usually in the upper trunk/breasts or buttocks, resulting in a distorted body silhouette. The VASER Shape works well to help smooth out and normalize those distorted bulges.”

For more information on VASER Shape at AnewAesthetic Medical Center, call 612.208.0741 or visit www.anewmedicalcenter.com

About Victoria Hagstrom, M.D.
A native of Minnesota, Dr. Vicky graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor's degree in chemistry from St. Cloud State University, where she was voted one of the ten most outstanding students in her graduating class. She is a Mayo Clinic trained physician with Board Certification in Family Medicine and 20 years experience. She has received extensive training and experience providing quality Hair Restoration services, and Laser Skin Science. She is a member of the American Medical Association, American Academy of Family Physicians, Minnesota Women Physicians, American Society for Lasers in Medicine and Surgery, American Medical Directors Association and a member of the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery.
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Doctor's P.R. provides health, aesthetic and medical news and information via broadcast, online and print media. All articles and physician statements are intended for general informational purposes only and are not to be used as medical advice. Always consult a physician for advice on any specific medical condition or when considering any treatment or procedure.

Dentists could screen 20 million for disease

2012-01-05T07:58:00.000-08:00

NYU (US) — Dentists could play a crucial role in the front-line defense against disease, according to a study that finds nearly 20 million Americans visit a dentist every year, but not a general healthcare provider.

For the study, published in the American Journal of Public Health, researchers examined the most recent available data from a nationally representative subsample of 31,262 adults and children who participated in the Department of Health & Human Services 2008 annual National Health Interview Survey.

Physicians, nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants were among those categorized as general healthcare providers for the purposes of the survey.

When extrapolated to the U.S. population, 26 percent of children did not see a general health care provider, but more than one-third of the same group, representing nearly seven million children, did visit a dentist at least once during that time period.

Among the adults, one quarter did not visit a general healthcare provider, yet almost a quarter—nearly 13 million Americans—did have at least one dental visit. When combined, adults and children who had contact only with dentists represent nearly 20 million people.

“For these and other individuals, dental professionals are in a key position to assess and detect oral signs and symptoms of systemic health disorders that may otherwise go unnoticed, and to refer patients for follow-up care,” says Shiela Strauss, associate professor of nursing at New York University.

Ninety-three percent of the children and 85 percent of the adults had some form of health insurance, suggesting that while many of those who did not interact with a general healthcare provider may have had access to general health care, they opted not to seek it.

According to the study, during the course of a routine dental examination, dentists and dental hygienists, as trained healthcare providers, could take a patient’s health history, check blood pressure, and use direct clinical observation and X-rays to detect risk for systemic conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease.

(courtesy of NYU)
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Amir Matityahu, M.D. Describes Treatments To Heal Bone Infections

2011-12-12T08:43:00.000-08:00

We are born with about 300 to 350 bones in our bodies. By the time we reach adulthood and bones fuse together, we are down to 206. When an infection strikes, one doctor is now finding ways to treat bones that won't heal.

(From Fox 23 News) Getting home from work is no easy trek for Rick Trecartin. Although the view can't be beat, he still has to walk several blocks from his office and catch a ferry each and every day. Even though he has done it for decades, the routine almost became unbearable. After suffering from arthritis for years, Rick went in for a knee procedure. Rick came out with MRSA, an antibiotic resistant infection. Trecartin said, "All of a sudden, I started getting this puss out of the lesion of the leg where they had cut my skin."

The infection was in Rick's bone, just two centimeters from his knee joint. If it got inside the knee, doctors might have amputated his leg. But Orthopedic Surgeon Amir Matityahu had a different plan.
Dr. Matityahu said, "You need to stop it as soon as possible to take care of the infection."

First, he cleaned out Rick's bone and placed hardware inside to keep it stable. Then, he implanted a wafer filled with antibiotics near the knee. The high dose of antibiotics spread to the surrounding area, killing the bacteria. Dr. Matityahu said, "Bone basically heals without scar."

After six weeks of antibiotics, bone from Rick's hip was transferred to his leg to replace what had deteriorated. Now, Rick's bone has completely healed. Trecartin said, "I just had a blood test to see if I had any indications of infection, and I don't."

The next step for Rick is a knee replacement. He feels lucky to have that option and says, "Amir saved my leg, and in the process saved my life."

A grateful patient, who is looking forward to getting out of the doctor's office and on with his life. The doctor says smokers and people with diabetes have a difficult time with bone healing. Sometimes, their bones never heal. In the best cases, these patients can get their knees fused. In the worst cases, they will need their leg amputated. Courtesy of Fox 23 News, Albany, NY.

For more information visit Dr. Amir Matityahu’s website at www.orthotrauma.com or call (415) 20-ORTHO for an appointment.

About Dr. Matityahu: Dr. Amir Matityahu is an orthopaedic surgeon specialized in complex orthopaedic trauma and reconstruction due to high velocity injuries. His areas of clinical interest are pelvic and acetabular fracture surgery, complex periarticular fractures and percutaneous and submuscular fracture fixation techniques.

His research interests include testing innovative implant design for fracture care and acetabular and periarticular fracture biomechanics.

Current Assignment: Assistant Clinical Professor, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California at San Francisco.

Director of Pelvic and Acetabular Trauma and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at San Francisco General Hospital.

Doctor's P.R. provides health, aesthetic and medical news and information via broadcast, online and print media. All articles and physician statements are intended for general informational purposes only and are not to be used as medical advice. Always consult a physician for advice on any specific medical condition or when considering any treatment or procedure.

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Younger Age Group Now Driving Demand For Cosmetic Procedures

2011-12-10T09:24:00.001-08:00

According to a study published by The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) more people are becoming interested in preventative and restorative facial treatments such as fillers, eyelid rejuvenation and Fraxel skin resurfacing and consequently doctors are seeing many more patients in the 31 to 45 age category. The study says that this younger age group, referred to as “Generation X’ers" accounted for 43% of cosmetic procedures in 2010, compared to “Baby Boomers” (aged 51 to 64) who accounted for 28%., reflecting a major demographic shift in the demand for cosmetic procedures.

The study indicates that younger Americans are embracing the idea of “preventive” cosmetic medicine including minimally invasive procedures and treatments to maintain one’s appearance over time, rather than waiting to have a larger plastic surgery procedure done years later.
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Dr. Kenneth Light Says Failed Back Surgery Can Be Corrected With The Right Procedures

2011-11-17T14:59:00.001-08:00

The San Francisco spine surgeon, who recently performed the first spinal fusion reversal procedures in the U.S. says new techniques can relieve back pain and help avoid further damage to the spine.

Dr. Kenneth Light is a spine surgeon who specializes in cases considered "hopeless," so severe that other physicians consider them beyond treatment. "Never give up hope,” he says. "I don't believe in giving up on patients until I've tried everything possible to help them," he says. "When you're affecting the way people live their lives, you can't justify doing anything less.”

Dr. Light tells the story of a recent patient, “Angelina”, age 36, who just wanted her pain to stop. Angelina injured her back twice by lifting heavy objects at work. “The first injury occurred a few years ago; her second back injury was especially painful,” says Dr. Light. “Angelina had suffered two herniated discs in her lumbar spine and she was in constant pain.”

Angelina had a “discectomy” a few years ago to attempt to fix her problem. The procedure was done to remove the damaged portions of her discs to relieve pain. The procedure seemed to help for a while but the pain returned and intensified over time. Angelina’s doctor at the time explained that arthritis had also formed in the damaged areas, adding to her discomfort and loss of full mobility.

“Until recently, the only course of treatment for these types of injuries has been a spinal fusion procedure, which is done to stabilize the spine,” says Dr. Light. “However, spinal fusion has several disadvantages including a variable loss of range of movement in the treated areas and, in many cases, recurring pain and further damage to the spine.”

“After my initial examination I suggested that Angelina consider another approach - total disc replacement,” says Dr. Light. “Artificial disc replacement is an attempt to fix complicated back problems without resorting to a spinal fusion.” The implant has been designed to maintain the physiological range of motion in the spine. “I believe that artificial disc replacement will eventually replace the majority of all spinal fusion surgeries," says Dr. Light. “Most patients will experience little downtime after the procedure and can usually return to most of their regular activities in a matter of days.”

Dr. Light performed total disc replacement for Angelina. She says can now move without pain for the first time in years.

For more information visit www.drkennethlight.com or call 4i5-673-4500.

About Dr. Kenneth Light
Dr. Kenneth Light graduated from the Cornell University College of Medicine in New York City. He completed his residency in Orhopaedic Surgery at the University of California in San Francisco., and completed a fellowship in spinal surgery under the guidance of Edward H. Simmons at the State University of New York in Buffalo.

Dr. Light was director of the spine clinic at San Francisco General Hospital, and was founder and medical director of the San Francisco Spine Center at Saint Francis Memorial Hospital. He is a fellow of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgery, is board certified with the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery and Assistant Clinical Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at University of California, San Francisco. He is currently in private practice in San Francisco where he specializes in reconstructive surgery in patients who have had failed back surgery.

Doctor's P.R. provides health, aesthetic and medical news and information via broadcast, online and print media. All articles and physician statements are intended for general informational purposes only and are not to be used as medical advice. Always consult a physician for advice on any specific medical condition or when considering any treatment or procedure.
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Veinablation Offers A Different Option For Treating Varicose Veins

2011-11-17T07:51:00.001-08:00

What Women Should Know About Treating Leg Veins
by Palmer H. White, M.D.

Surgical stripping in the hospital under general anesthesia has been a procedure done for treating varicose veins for years. However, within the last decade, there have emerged alternative treatments that eliminate the need for this invasive procedure. One new option is the Endovascular Laser Treatment and another is the VNUS radio frequency technology treatment. Both of these treatments entail feeding a small catheter up the leg to close down the saphenous vein. It is only indicated as a treatment choice when the saphenous vein is abnormal. It is frequently done in a clinic or in an outpatient setting in the hospital. There is no down time in this first stage of treatment . To completely eradicate veins, though, a second stage of additional treatment is required that may include surgery. This portion of the procedure may or may not require outpatient hospitalization including anesthesia, can be painful, and can entail quite a bit of down time. The procedures are expensive, costing anywhere from $5000 to $10,000 per leg, and even more if there is a hospitalization.

There is a problem with these procedures. Endovascular Laser Treatment and VNUS Radio Frequency Treatment are only indicated when the saphenous vein is abnormal or incompetent. Yet they are being recommended when there is no such problem. Only 30% of people with ropy veins have abnormal saphenous veins. Seventy percent of the time the saphenous vein is perfectly normal and the varicosities are being fed from the deep venous system. An accurate differential diagnosis must be made that may require ultrasound examination. Not everyone can make an accurate differential diagnosis and not everyone can perform and interpret an ultrasound examination with the precision necessary. Radiologists and Vascular Surgeons have the most expertise. Unfortunately there seems to be a lack of this expertise and knowledge in some physicians offering these services. The result is creating unnecessary expense, risk, pain, and loss of productivity for people. In addition, patients are not always being told that surgical stripping or additional treatment will still be necessary to complete the job.

There is a better option that eliminates the need for Endovascular Laser and VNUS Closure Treatment altogether. The procedure is called Veinablation™. It begins with an accurate differential diagnosis. For the 30% who have an abnormal saphenous vein, it can be closed with foam sclerotherapy. It combines a unique external laser treatment with innovative injection techniques to eliminate veins. The results are more effective, with 95%-100% clearance of veins in one treatment without surgery. There is significantly less expense, no down time, less risk, and most importantly no recurrence.

Veinablation™ is being performed by Dr. White at the Laser Light Treatment Center in Novato , California.

About Palmer H. White, M.D.
Dr. White is certified by the American Board of Surgery and is a Diplomat of the American College of Surgeons. He earned his medical credentials at Northwestern University Medical School in Chicago and he completed his general and vascular surgery residency at UCLA, in Los Angeles. He is an alumnus of Williams College in Massachusetts.

Doctor's P.R. provides health, aesthetic and medical news and information via broadcast, online and print media. All articles and physician statements are intended for general informational purposes only and are not to be used as medical advice. Always consult a physician for advice on any specific medical condition or when considering any treatment or procedure.
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Dr. Paul Glat Appears On Fox TV Philadelphia "Older People & Cosmetic Surgery"

2011-11-16T17:32:00.001-08:00

Philadelphia - More Baby Boomers and beyond are having cosmetic surgery as they remain physically and socially active throughout their lives, says Dr. Paul Glat, a board certified plastic surgeon.
Visit www.drglat.com

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Fast Food Dining More Popular Among Middle Class, Says Study

2011-11-15T23:25:00.000-08:00

A new national study of eating out and income shows that fast-food dining becomes more common as earnings increase from low to middle incomes, weakening the popular notion that fast food should be blamed for higher rates of obesity among the poor.

"There is a correlation between obesity and lower income, but it cannot be solely attributed to restaurant choice," said J. Paul Leigh, professor of public health sciences at UC Davis and senior author of the study, which is published online in Population Health Management. "Fast-food dining is most popular among the middle class, who are less likely to be obese."

In conducting the study, Leigh and co-author DaeHwan Kim, specialists in health economics, used data from the 1994 to 1996 Continuing Survey of Food Intakes by Individuals and the accompanying Diet and Health Knowledge Survey. The nationally representative sample of nearly 5,000 people in the U.S. included data about food consumption patterns, including restaurant visits, over two nonconsecutive days, which was compared with demographic variables such as household income, race, gender, age and education.

They found that eating at full-service restaurants, which involve a range of food choices and sit-down service, followed an expected pattern: as income rose, visits increased. In contrast, eating at fast-food restaurants, characterized by minimal table service and food preparation time, followed a different pattern. Fast-food restaurant visits rose along with annual household income up to $60,000. As income increased beyond that level, fast-food visits decreased.

Leigh noted that the fast-food industry attracts the middle class by locating restaurants right off freeways in middle-income areas and by offering products that appeal to a large proportion of Americans.

"Low prices, convenience and free toys target the middle class -- especially budget-conscious, hurried parents -- very well," said Leigh.

The study was limited by the fact that the data came from the mid-1990s, the most recent information available on this subject. Although incomes have changed considerably since then, Leigh believes that the eating-out patterns found in this study would still hold if more up-to-date data were available.

Co-author Dae Hwan Kim, who earned his doctorate in economics at UC Davis, is currently with the Korea Insurance Research Institutes in Seoul.

Kim and Leigh's study -- "Are Meals at Full-Service and Fast-Food Restaurants 'Normal' or 'Inferior'?" -- will be published in the December print issue of the journal. A copy can be requested by e-mailing kruehle@liebertpub.com.

The research was funded in part by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health.

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Wrinkle Relief Goes Beyond Botox For Smile Lines

2011-11-14T00:56:00.001-08:00

Beverly Hills - Dr. Andre Berger, medical director of Rejuvalife Vitality Institute in Beverly Hills is performing the "Wrinkle Relief" procedure, a minimally-invasive treatment to reduce or eliminate "smile lines" and large forehead lines, all of which can add years to a person's appearance. The procedure can smooth out the lines and wrinkles. First, the doctor creates a "tunnel" under the wrinkle. Then he injects a synthetic filler into the "tunnel", following the entire length of each wrinkle or smile line. The immediate result is a smooth, beautiful look.

For deeper wrinkles, Dr. Berger can use a specially designed wire scalpel which he introduces into facial wrinkles, gently releasing the adhesions that bind the skin to the muscles underneath, and is done under local anesthesia. Called a "Wrinkle Release", healing takes about a week.

The Wrinkle Release is a type of “undermining”; the breaking apart of wrinkle lines with a special wire to create “tunnels” or “channels” under the skin. The body’s response is to create collagen to fill the space, raising unwanted depressions and “plumping” wrinkles, folds and/or scars.

Dr Berger says that the procedures are suitable for women and men of all ages. In fact, many patients are in their thirties and want to keep their faces as wrinkle -free as possible, for as long as possible.

Doctor's P.R. provides health, aesthetic and medical news and information via broadcast, online and print media. All articles and physician statements are intended for general informational purposes only and are not to be used as medical advice. Always consult a physician for advice on any specific medical condition or when considering any treatment or procedure.
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How Children With ADHD May Be Helped By Playing Pac-Man

2011-11-13T12:56:00.001-08:00

San Francisco, CA - EEG Neurofeedback Is Helping Kids With A.D.D. & A.D.H.D. Function Better Without The Use of Prescription Drugs, says psychologist.

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is epidemic in the U.S. So far, most attempts to help the millions of children (and adults) afflicted with this impairment, as well as ADHD ( Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder", have centered on drug therapy. Although drugs may offer some limited help to individuals, there are often many side effects, some of which can be dangerous, says Mark Steinberg, Ph.D., psychologist and author of the book"A.D.D. - The 20-Hour Solution". Dr. Steinberg is a clinical, educational & neuropsychologist who practices in Los Gatos, CA.

Dr. Steinberg explains that he uses EEG Neurofeedback as a non-drug treatment for ADD & ADHD. The treatments use an EEG machine (which measures brainwaves) to help patients reprogram the affected electrical patterns in the brain. "The computerized machine actually generates a "neurological feedback" effect so the patient learns to control his or her mental & emotional states", says Dr. Steinberg. In essence, the patient is trained to play a pac-man video game hands-free, solely by learning how to control his or her brainwaves through electrodes placed on the head and attached to the neurofeedback system and a monitor displaying the video game. A second monitor show the various frequencies of brainwaves.

Dr. Steinberg says the neurofeedback system works by helping children to improve their focus and concentration. "This results in improved learning and studying in school. Hyperactivity, anger, mood swings and destructive behavior are greatly reduced, and in many cases, eliminated with this method."

Mark Steinberg, PH.D. is a psychologist who has worked with children, adolescents and adults for 30 years. His clinic, Mark Steinberg, PH.D. & Associates is located in Los Gatos, CA.

Doctor's P.R. provides health, aesthetic and medical news and information via broadcast, online and print media. All articles and physician statements are intended for general informational purposes only and are not to be used as medical advice. Always consult a physician for advice on any specific medical condition or when considering any treatment or procedure.
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Dr. Stephen Pincus Says "Forget Overdone Lips" - Cheekbones Are In

2011-11-12T09:50:00.001-08:00

Forget the overdone lips: now it's all about the cheekbone. Women are taking another look at their faces, having injections of synthetic fillers or fat to shape, plump and restructure the cheeks. Many consider high, sculpted cheekbones to be one of the most beautiful aspects of a female face.

Beverly Hills facial plastic surgeon Dr. Stephen Pincus says that women are interested in more than just erasing the lines and wrinkles. Now they want to get the as much of the effects of a cosmetic procedure possible without having the actual surgery. And the cheekbones have become a focal point for beauty as more young celebrities seem to be endowed (either naturally or with a little help) with prominent, glorious cheekbones.

In addition to the traditional markers of aging - sagging eyelids or a droopy neckline, for example - which are routinely "fixed", people are now learning that the cheek areas, which tend to diminish in volume with age can be rejuvenated to create a more attractive look. Younger women who are not blessed with high, dramatic cheekbones want to get the look they see displayed by models and actresses.

The procedure involves one or two injections around the cheekbone area, either through the face or, as some cosmetic specialists practice, through the mouth. The area is anesthetized so there is minimal discomfort. It rarely takes longer than 20 minutes, and though there might be some short-term redness, the effects are almost immediate. No recovery time is needed, according to Dr. Pincus.

Among the more popular fillers are Restylane and Radiesse. Sculptra tends to be pricier but does last longer, says Dr. Pincus. Side effects can include occasional redness, swelling and discomfort around the injected area, and in cases where the injection is done through the mouth, doctors say there is also a chance of infection. The patient's own fat, "harvested" from another area of the body, also can be used.

"High cheekbones give the face an inverted pyramid shape that's very attractive," says Dr. Pincus. "It's a matter of accentuating certain proportions for the best look. Because of the success of using fillers cheek implants may become a thing of the past - they're more expensive, permanent and require major surgery. And who needs that, when you can look fabulous in twenty minutes?

Media inquiries: Gary Grasso, Director, Doctor's P.R. www.doctorspr.com
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Study Says Some People Are Over-Eating To Feel More Important

2011-11-11T14:02:00.001-08:00

A new study says that people may be super-sizing their meals in search of higher social status. People are eating larger food portions, and the cause may be the eaters' desire to convince others of their high social standing, according to a study by researchers at Northwestern University in Illinois and the French business school École des Hautes Études Commerciales de Paris, to be published in the Journal of Consumer Research.

Researchers performed a number of experiments to learn why people of lower social status overeat despite knowing about the unhealthy consequences. In one experiment, participants at a café judged others who bought larger-sized coffees as being of higher status, even when all coffee sizes had the same price. In other experiments, participants who felt powerless chose larger-sized bagel pieces than others who didn't—and they drank larger smoothies when at a social event than when dining alone.

Study authors theorize that since Western culture associates bigger houses, cars and T.V.’s with prosperity and higher social status, people have come to make the same association with food. In addition, vulnerable consumers may seek to pump up their status in order to compensate for their undesirable social standing and as a way to respond to daily threats, researchers explained. "This research further proposes that the tendency to use the size of food options within an assortment will be particularly strong among those consumers who feel powerless," they added.

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Dr. Randall Weil Does A Mini Neck Liposuction In San Francisco TV News Story

2011-11-09T16:22:00.000-08:00

San Francisco plastic surgeon Dr. Randall Weil shows ABC 7 News viewers how a minimally invasive "Mini Neck Lipo" procedure takes years off a woman's appearance in less than an hour.

Dr. Weil says that minimally invasive procedures, such as the “Mini-Neck Lipo”, are increasing in demand because a person can see noticeable improvements in her or his appearance with little or no downtime. "These 'mini' procedures also cost less than bigger procedures, and can be of benefit to the appropriate type of patient," says Dr. Weil. "For the Mini-Neck Lipo, it's best if someone has enough elasticity in the skin to allow it to tighten up nicely after the procedure," he says. Dr. Weil's patient in the story, "Terry" says "My neck bothered me. I was getting this fat area that I didn't like."

About Dr. Randall Weil:
Dr. Randall Weil is Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and he is certified by the American Board of Surgery in general surgery. Dr. Randall Weil is also licensed by the Medical Board of California as a physician and surgeon.

Dr. Randall Weil was the Chief of Plastic Surgery at St. Mary’s Medical Center of San Francisco for ten years; part of his responsibility in this position required that he review and approve other doctors in his field. Dr. Randall Weil's approval of a surgeon’s training and skills was required in order for him/her to become a staff member at St. Mary’s.

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Back Pain Can Be Relieved With New Treatments, Says San Francisco Spine Surgeon

2011-11-01T17:47:00.000-07:00

Kenneth Light, M.D., a spine surgeon in San Francisco discusses advancements in spinal fusion, and how a new disc replacement is the greatest advancement in spinal surgery in years, in this interview conducted by Ivanhoe Medical News:

I read in the press release that 80 percent of people will have back pain sometime in their life?
Kenneth Light: Most people have back pain at some point, yes.

How do you know when it goes from normal to something that needs to be fixed?
Kenneth Light: Two things: One is you have shooting pain down your leg, associated also with numbness and weakness, and you can't walk; so that would be one reason why you would have to get it fixed. The other reason is you could have very bad pain shooting down your leg, and you can't sit in a chair, and most people have to sit in a chair to go to work every day. And the third time you know that you have to go to the doctor is when your pain in your back is so bad; you can't get out of the bed in the morning. There's no question; you have to go to work, and if can't go to work, most people have to get it fixed.

Now, before it was all spinal fusion, which has its downsides?
Kenneth Light: A spinal fusion is the way that the doctor took unstable vertebrae, or spine; spines that were slipping in various directions, or spines that were crooked, such as scoliosis, and could straighten them and put them back into alignment. We still have to use the spinal fusion for those conditions. The downside of a spinal fusion is, number one: it makes the back abnormally stiff. When the back gets very stiff, it doesn’t function normally. The discs allow the spine to have some kind of recoil, so when you walk there's some cushioning of the rest of the joints in your body. When you lose that cushioning, it puts a lot of stress on the joints adjacent to the spine. Those joints would be the sacroiliac joints, which are the joints that attach the pelvis to the sacrum, which is part of the spine. It also puts a lot of stress on the hip joints, and patients who have very long spinal fusion, develop arthritis of the sacroiliac joints, then they develop arthritis of the hip joints. On the level of the spine that’s attached to the fusion, the discs seem to disintegrate at a rapid rate. Then the fusion is extended another level, and another level, and another level, and pretty soon, the whole spine is fused.

So you're kind of trading in one problem for another?
Kenneth Light: You are. You're trying to put off a very bad problem into the future, but what happens is eventually you have to pay the piper. And eventually you have to either add on to the fusion, or you develop trouble at the adjacent level.

Total disc replacement can stop this progression?
Kenneth Light: So what happened was there was a woman who won the 1972 Olympics on the uneven parallel bars in Munich; wound up becoming an orthopedic surgeon. In the early 1980s, she thought to herself "well, maybe we can avoid doing the spinal fusions" cause we all know they're bad, and the results are never great, the results are okay. The results take something that’s terrible, and make them bearable. So, they starting doing disc replacements in Europe in the 1980s, and they caught on, and the results were actually pretty good. But it wasn't until about six or seven years ago that they were permitted to be done here. They are the single greatest advancement in spinal surgery in the last 50 years.

Once you get a total disc replacement, is your injury going to progress like it did with spinal fusion?
Kenneth Light: Well, we think not. We don’t have enough information in this country to be able to say for sure that it's going to prevent the progression of the disease. Because, if you took a normal person, and you followed them throughout their lives, we know that little by little as everyone gets older all of our discs have a tendency to degenerate. So, it won't be for a long time before we can say "well, If we do the disc replacement, it's going to slow the degenerative process down" because we would have to compare that to a number of people who had solid fusions. I could tell you a few things about disc replacements that are definitely true. The first thing is that the pain after a disc replacement is substantially less than that of a spinal fusion. The amount of days the patient spends at the hospital is substantially less than that of a spinal fusion.

How much less?
Kenneth Light: The average spinal fusion would be in the hospital for a combined anterior/posterior operation would be in the hospital about five days. It's roughly two or three days for the lumbar disc replacement. For a cervical disc replacement the average time in the hospital is one or two days. We've had patients where they wake up the next day and say "can I go home", and a spinal fusion is usually two or three days. The improvement in the function is much faster than that of a spinal fusion. The average spinal fusion takes six to 12 months to heal. The average disc replacement for a cervical disc replacement for a one or two level disc replacement, the patient can go back to work in 10 days to 2 weeks, for a spinal fusion its often six weeks, 12 weeks. So, the recovery is much faster, the pain is much less, and the function of the spine approximates that of a normal spine. It doesn’t make the spine abnormally stiff, and so the patient has much more movement, they have much more mobility.

For more information call the office of Dr. Kenneth Light at 415.673.4500
or visit www.drkennethlight.com

Doctor's P.R. provides health, aesthetic and medical news and information via broadcast, online and print media. All articles and physician statements are intended for general informational purposes only and are not to be used as medical advice. Always consult a physician for advice on any specific medical condition or when considering any treatment or procedure.
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Philadelphia Hair Transplant Patients Get High-Tech Procedure For a Natural Look

2011-10-31T14:21:00.000-07:00

Dr. Paul Glat says NeoGraft hair restoration results are excellent with consistent hair growth.

Bala Cynwyd, PA - Men and women who wish to replace thinning hair have an exciting new option, says Philadelphia plastic surgeon Dr. Paul Glat. “Our NeoGraft patients are doing really well, They had minimal pain, with recovery times next to nothing. The regrowth results are excellent and the donor sites are invisible. So many of the patients say they would never have considered it if they needed to be cut, with the pain and the scar that results from the traditional methods.”

The “NeoGraft” is a new device for “harvesting” and transplanting hair which eliminates the huge scar left in the back of the head in the conventional “strip” method of hair restoration. The NeoGraft can be used on men and women with virtually all degrees of hair loss in a fast, minimally invasive procedure. "The results are an incredibly natural looking head of hair, and because the hair is not “harvested” by cutting out a huge strip from the back of the person’s head, hair can be worn as short as desired.," says Dr. Glat. "It is the first FDA approved automated hair restoration device for FUE (follicular unit extraction)."

Hair follicles are gently lifted out of the scalp with a tiny instrument and gentle suction, and then placed into the bald or thinning areas with reverse air pressure. “The results are very natural looking,” says Dr. Glat. “This new procedure opens the door for many who were not good hair transplant candidates in the past. Many other patients thought they weren't candidates because they had had previous procedures and the scalp was tight.”

"The NeoGraft has totally changed the way we do hair restoration,” says Dr. Glat. “We almost never need to do the strip method anymore, with the long incision, the more painful postoperative period and potential scarring.

For more information call the office of Dr. Paul Glat at 866.472.6009 or visit www.drglat.com

About Dr. Paul Glat:

Dr. Paul M. Glat is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. He has been voted Philadelphia Magazine's "top plastic surgeon" of the year multiple times, and Main Line Magazine has featured him as one of the best plastic surgeons in the area. He has also been honored as one of America's Top Doctors by Castle Connolly, a leading healthcare firm that selects the top 1 percent of medical specialists in the country based on peer review.

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Dr. Kenneth Light Appears on ABC News - Back Pain Treatment

2011-10-27T01:39:00.000-07:00

San Francisco spine surgeon Dr. Kenneth Light is interviewed with his patient in this video from an ABC TV news story on new technology to help correct a painful and debilitating back problem, which is becoming more prevalent among the baby boomer generation.

Dr. Light's patient, Tim Taylor is recovering from a back problem so severe, he says it was ruining his life. "I couldn't stand up straight," he says. "It was just too painful."

Tim was suffering from spinal stenosis, a degenerative condition that strikes most often in people over the age of 50. The condition is impacting aging baby boomers in increasing numbers.

"It's definitely an orthopedic epidemic," says Dr. Light, who recently made news when he performed the first spinal fusion reversal procedures in the U.S. "Within the coming decade, the number of people reporting these types of back problems is only going to increase." Dr. Light says spinal stenosis is caused by a narrowing in the spinal canal, often caused by bone spurs that form on the vertebrae, which compress surrounding nerves. "Correcting severe cases like Taylor's can involve a combination of delicate procedures."

Dr. Light says advanced technology is making it possible to safely reshape the spine with much better results. "The hardware is better and we have stronger instruments that take up less room," he says. "It allows us to manipulate the spine in ways we couldn't have done before."

For information on back pain and spinal treatments visit www.drkennethlight.com or call 415.673.4500.
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Dr. Sheena Kong Discusses Fraxel Acne Scar Treatment in San Francisco

2011-10-21T15:21:00.000-07:00

San Francisco, CA - Dr. Sheena Kong says that the Fraxel fractionated laser treatment can be effective to reduce the appearance of acne scars for women and men of all skin types and especially those with darker skin tones, who have not been good candidates for laser treatment.

"African-American, Hispanic and Asian skin types generally have more melanin, or pigment than Caucasian skin, so they've traditionally been at a higher risk for discoloration and scarring with conventional laser treatments," says Dr. Kong. "However, Fraxel laser treatment precisely targets water in the skin, not melanin, and therefore may be safe and effective for all skin colors."

Dr. Kong had acne scars herself, which she has had treated with the Fraxel laser. She was so impressed with her results that she decided to offer Fraxel treatments to her patients.

According to Dr. Kong, "Fraxel re:store laser treatment is capable of quickly rejuvenating the skin, correcting acne scars and other imperfections—all without interfering with one's daily routine."
Fraxel re:store treatment has FDA clearances for:
▪ Wrinkles around the eyes
▪ Acne scars and surgical scars
▪ Age spots/sunspots
▪ Melasma (irregular patches of brown skin on the forehead, cheeks, upper lip and nose)
▪ Actinic Keratoses (precancerous lesions)
▪ Skin resurfacing

Dr. Kong says that Fraxel treatments can result in smoother, younger-looking skin with improved tone and texture. Brown spots, fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes are reduced and the appearance of acne scars is noticeably improved.

Treatments take 20 to 25 minutes for a full face, and most people can return to their routine activities the very next day. patients usually experience immediate results and will see the most benefit in three to five treatments.

For more information on Fraxel re:store treatments visit San Francisco Internal Medicine Associates website at www.sf-ima.com/services-laser.htm or call 415.673.7600.

About Sheena Kong, M.D.

Dr. Sheena Kong is a board certified Internal Medicine physician with extensive clinical experience in treating a wide variety of acute and chronic medical conditions and diseases. Dr. Kong graduated from Smith College magna cum laude. She attended Harvard University where she graduated with a Master’s degree in Medical Sciences. Dr. Kong graduated with a Doctor of Medicine degree from Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. She completed her residency at California Pacific Medical Center. Dr. Kong is also fluent in Mandarin, as she was born in Shanghai, China.
Dr. Kong is highly trained and certified in the administration of Botox Cosmetic, dermal fillers and Fraxel resurfacing laser treatment. She was recognized with a Yellow Diamond Award for her commitment to the Fraxel laser treatment.

Dr. Kong is on the active staff of California Pacific Medical Center, St. Francis Memorial Hospital and Chinese Hospital.
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Can Fifty Be The New Thirty-Five? A Dermatologist Says Yes

2011-10-19T09:28:00.000-07:00

Looking younger seems to be on nearly everyone's mind. With the explosion in plastic surgery procedures performed on women (and increasingly men) of all ages, the demand for age-defying medical procedures has grown into a multi-billion dollar business sector.

A trend has become apparent, according to Pasadena, CA dermatologist Dr. Robert Seltzer. "People want to look younger and fresher, but they don't want to go under the knife unless they absolutely must," he says. "Most people wish not only to avoid surgery, they want to achieve their goals with little or no downtime taken from their busy schedules."

While the numbers and age ranges of people who seek cosmetic rejuvenation or enhancement continue to increase, so has the demand for ways to rejuvenate one's appearance without the need to spend time healing for days or weeks afterward

Just a few years ago, that would have been difficult if not impossible, says Dr. Seltzer. "For example, if you had a sagging neckline, you'd need to have a neck lift, liposuction or a combination of surgical procedures," he says. "For wrinkles, sun damage and other skin problems patients would often need harsh chemical peels or lasers that created a controlled 'burn' to the skin, all requiring one to three weeks' healing time before returning to work and social activities."

New devices that are now available are allowing dermatologists to rejuvenate faces and bodies with very little or no downtime. Dr. Seltzer says that one type of laser, the "Fraxel Re:Pair" resurfaces the skin in a fractional "pattern" that reduces healing time while achieving similar results as previous generation lasers that caused noticeable redness which persisted for weeks after treatment.

Another device, called the "Trinity" has three different modes; using various combinations of radio frequency and intense pulsed light, the device can actually tighten skin without surgery, promote collgen production to "fill in" or soften facial lines and wrinkles. and correct years of sun damage, all at the same time.

"By reversing the effects of sun damage, softening lines and and tightening the skin, 50 is becoming the new 35 as women are being helped to turn back the clock on their appearance," says Dr. Seltzer. "Now it's not unusual to see women in their fifth decade who look as young and vital as thirty-something women of a generation ago."
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San Francisco Spine Surgeon Shows Spinal Stenosis Treatment on Ch. 7 News

2011-09-29T23:53:00.000-07:00

Dr. Kenneth Light and a patient are interviewed on KGO Ch. 7 News in San Francisco. The story covers how baby boomers are coping with the pain of spinal stenosis and how specialized surgical techniques are allowing patients to stay active as they age. For more information visit www.drkennethlight.com
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Beverly Hills Rhinoplasty Doctor Creates Matching Noses For Twins.

2011-09-28T16:14:00.000-07:00

Dr. Stephen Pincus, a specialist in rhinoplasty and revision rhinoplasty has given identical twin sisters Marie and Lynette matching noses, after one sister had her nose job first.

The 20-something sisters, who perform together as singers have dressed alike and worn the same hair styles since they can remember. The only thing they didn't like was the bump that each sister had on her nose, so when one had a rhinoplasty done a few years ago, the other had to have her nose done too, so they would still be a perfect match.

Dr. Pincus performed the second rhinoplasty and now the twins are more beautiful than ever, with matching noses. (They look so much alike, that when the sisters went to see Dr. Pincus for a post-op visit, he couldn't tell them apart.) Later, Marie and Lynette appeared with Dr. Pincus on a national T.V. show to reveal their beautiful results.

Dr. Pincus says that a rhinoplasty is among the most difficult cosmetic procedures to perform. Because of this, about 50% of his practice consists of "fixing"or performing revision rhinoplasty on men and women who have had an unsatisfactory "nose job" by a different doctor.

For information on rhinoplasty, revision rhinoplasty or other facial cosmetic surgery procedures, visit www.drstephenpincus.com or call 310.271.7070.

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Revision Rhinoplasty Tips From A Beverly Hills Specialist.

2011-09-28T11:49:00.000-07:00

"Since the nose is the most defining feature of the face, any slight alteration can greatly affect a person's appearance," says Dr. Stephen Pincus, a board certified facial plastic surgeon who practices in Beverly Hills, CA.

Dr. Pincus says avoiding a “nose job nightmare” the first time around or when having a "re-do" is a matter of educating oneself and finding the right surgeon. Over half a million people in the U.S. consult plastic surgeons every year, with the desire to improve the appearance of their noses.

A subspecialty of sorts has emerged, composed of "Nasal Revision Specialists", facial plastic surgeons who focus on fixing the mistakes of other doctors, or in helping their patients to achieve the look they wanted in the first place.

Most plastic surgeons will agree that the nose is the most challenging part of the body to work on and to achieve an aesthetically pleasing result. However, there are steps you can take to help ensure that you get the nose you want.

“There are many factors that can impact the results of a rhinoplasty, including the original deformity, the expertise of the surgeon, the skin type, the postoperative care and of course the patient's own expectations,” says Dr. Pincus.

"As with any plastic surgery procedure, the patient should have a realistic approach to what is achievable, and to clearly communicate their needs with the surgeon" says Dr. Pincus. "The more specific you can be in the exact details of shape, size and symmetry that you desire, the easier it is for the surgeon to comment on what he or she can do."

And why are people unhappy with the appearance of their noses? Dr. Pincus says these are the most common complaints:
Crooked nasal bones
A “Pinched Tip”
The drop (rounded) tip
A crooked nose
A “scooped” nose
The high tip
A nose which is too wide in relation to other facial features.

About Dr. Stephen J. Pincus:
Currently in private practice in Marina del Rey and Beverly Hills, Dr. Pincus is also a Clinical Associate Professor at USC where he teaches the residents the techniques of Facial Plastic Surgery. Additionally, he serves as an Expert Reviewer for the Medical Board of California.

Dr. Pincus is board certified by the American Board of Otolaryngolgy and the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Otolaryngolgy-Head and Neck Surgery, the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and the American College of Surgeons.

Dr. Pincus has lectured extensively and is well- known for his techniques and experience in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the face. He serves as a consultant in these matters for the Morrow Institute at the Eisenhower Medical Complex in Palm Springs as well as Healthcare Partners in Torrance, CA.
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Dr. Paul Glat Says That More Older People Are Seeking Plastic Surgery.

2011-09-19T21:46:00.000-07:00

Philadelphia, PA - Older people who are looking to alter or maintain their appearance are driving increased demand for plastic surgery and other cosmetic treatments, according to board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Paul Glat.

“We are seeing more patients in all age groups who are interested in facial and body plastic surgery and non-surgical options such as dermal fillers and non-surgical body contouring, says Dr. Glat.

“The population is aging but people are placing a much higher value on looking good,” says Dr. Glat. “They are helping to increase the number of cosmetic surgeries performed every year,” he says. “Many people are staying in the work force longer than they used to, and they want to look as good as their younger co-workers.”

"People are living longer than ever before and there are so many high profile older actresses and actors who have had cosmetic surgery to enhance their looks (and to extend their careers) that men and women want the same effects for themselves,” says Dr. Glat.

"Many older people have adopted a healthy eating regimen, exercise on a daily basis and want to look as young as they still feel. Cosmetic surgery can make a person’s exterior body look as good as they may feel on the inside. While some young people have plastic surgery to attract a mate, older people may use plastic surgery to simply turn back the clock a few years and feel better about themselves."

Dr. Glat says It’s not just women who are interested in improving their looks. While many older women are interested in facial rejuvenation, breast enhancement, breast lifts and tummy tucks, men may opt for cosmetic procedures such as eyelid rejuvenation, liposuction and other procedures that make them look more youthful at work or play. Dr. Glat says that a new, automated hair transplant procedure using a device called the “NeoGraft” is allowing men to attain a natural look with no large linear scars and fast recovery.

“As more mature men and women continue to search for ways to look younger there will continue to be a strong demand for cosmetic procedures to meet their needs,” says Dr. Glat.

For more information visit www.drglat.com
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Do Women's Faces Age Worse Than Men's?

2011-08-26T00:20:00.000-07:00

Study May Indicate Why Women's Faces Seem To Age Worse Than Men's.

Do women's faces look more masculine as they age?

"Women's faces appear to age much worse than do men's", says Dr. Victoria Vitale-Lewis, a board certified plastic surgeon located in Melbourne, FL. "This is because the signs of aging masculinize a woman’s face, and when women lose their feminine facial characteristics they become less attractive."

"Men get older -looking but women get more masculine -looking as well as looking older as the years go by," says Dr. Vitale-Lewis. In order to address this problem, she has studied the gender differences between female and male faces. Dr. Vitale- Lewis now instructs other physicians in techniques to restore these feminine features when rejuvenating the face.

"The surgical changes that are made to restore a youthful appearance also enhance a woman’s femininity and therefore her attractiveness," says Dr. Vitale-Lewis. The goal of the Feminine Facelift is to predictably achieve attractiveness, especially from the frontal view. Dr. Vitale-Lewis says it is much more difficult to achieve a younger look from the frontal view than from a side view, which shows changes in profile such as the neck and cheek areas. With the Feminine Facelift, every effort is made to duplicate the patient's younger appearance in photographs.
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Amir Matityahu, M.D. on Fractures That Don't Heal.

2011-08-25T22:50:00.000-07:00

Unhealed Fractures after a standard trial of treatment are called bone "Non-Unions".

By Amir Matityahu, M.D.

Luckily, the body is very good at healing broken bones. As a matter of fact, bones heal without scarring. However, there are some bones that are more prone to not healing after a fracture. The most common is the tibia (leg bone).

The definition of a nonunion is a bone that has not healed after a length of time in which it should have been healed. For the tibia, if more then 6 months has elapsed before the bone is healed, and there is no change in healing on the x-ray over a three month period after that, then the bone will probably not heal.

The rate of bony non-union is around 5-10% depending on the bone and the the severity of the injury. Moreover, if there is complicated fracture patterns, open fractures, infection, poor nutrition, inadequate blood supply, diabetes, smoking, renal failure, metabolic bone diseases, or problems with fracture fixation stability or blood supply to the fracture, then there may be a higher risk of the bone not healing.

The treatment of fracture nonunions should be done in an algorithmic fashion. The workup for any of the risk factors above should be performed to see if any risk factors are correctable. A thorough history to assess concomitant medical issues and previous treatments is critical. Analysis of the results from multiple tests such as labs, imaging studies, and biopsies (if needed), should be interpreted meticulously, with caution and experience. This initial step is critical for success in treatment. Moreover, patient and MD realistic treatment goals must be discussed in a frank manner. Each treatment protocol must be adjusted to the particular patient so that any the associated factors are remedied or optimized prior to surgical intervention.

The philosophy behind treating any unhealed bone is to create the correct environment for the bone to heal. This may include metabolic enhancement, infection eradication, treatment of chronic medical conditions, and mechanical stability. Moreover, smoking has been shown to have an association with bones not healing. Therefore, smoking cessation is critical.

Surgical treatment include removing any infected or avascular bone. Creating a good biological and mechanical environment for the bone to heal. Moreover, the use of antibiotic medication, if needed, can be critical. Small non-infected defects are usually treated with stabilization and bone grafting. Large bone defects can be treated in several ways such as bone transport with an external fixator or fixation with large bone grafts. Fixation techniques vary depending on each individual case and may include plates and screws, intramedullary rods or external fixators.

Treatment of bone non-union can be done successfully but it takes expertise, algorithmic approaches and careful analysis. A multidisciplinary approach to treatment coordinated with an orthopaedic surgeon, plastic surgeon, infectious disease specialist, internist, and other specialists may be critical to success.

The questions I would ask my doctor are:
1) How many have you done? Were you trained to take care of these kinds of problems?
2) Have you taken care of a problem like mine before?
3) What workup do you plan on doing?
4) What kinds of surgery do you think I will need?
5) How long do you think it will take to treat this problem?

For more information visit Dr. Amir Matityahu’s website at www.amirmd.com or call (415) 206-8812.

About Dr. Matityahu:
Dr. Amir Matityahu is an orthopaedic surgeon specialized in complex orthopaedic trauma and reconstruction due to high velocity injuries. His areas of clinical interest are pelvic and acetabular fracture surgery, complex periarticular fractures and percutaneous and submuscular fracture fixation techniques.

His research interests include testing innovative implant design for fracture care and acetabular and periarticular fracture biomechanics.

Current Assignment:
Assistant Clinical Professor, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California at San Francisco.
Director of Pelvic and Acetabular Trauma and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at San Francisco General Hospital.
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NaturalFill® Lip Enhancement Adds Volume Without Synthetic Fillers.

2011-08-18T18:19:00.000-07:00

Fat transfer to the lips provides long-term, natural-looking results.

Before & After NaturalFill® Lip Enhancement

34 year-old Brenna has tried the usual lip enhancement routine - injectable synthetic fillers that add volume, but look unnatural and disappear after a few months, requiring more expensive injections to be repeated endlessly. Now she's planning to have her own fat harvested from an unwanted area and have that natural fat placed in her lips using a specialized method that preserves the viability of the fat, resulting in a long-term solution for fuller but natural-looking lips.

Dr. Roger Bassin says a new process he has named "NaturalFill® Lip Enhancement" is done to harvest the fat without damaging it's viability to survive. Dr. Bassin says that the NaturalFill® process places allows the fat to remain and thrive long-term or permanently, resulting in a beautiful look that costs much less than undergoing repeated injections of synthetic fillers, which can also cause allergic reactions.
For more information visit www.mynaturalfill.com

Hip Fractures & Hip Replacement - San Francisco Orthopaedic Surgeon Lists 3 Questions To Ask.

2011-08-18T17:22:00.000-07:00

Amir Matityahu, M.D. says a person with a broken hip should ask his or her doctor a few simple questions before having surgery.

“It’s not necessary to ask your orthopaedic surgeon how many times he or she has performed a hip fracture repair or hip replacement procedure,” says Dr. Amir Matityahu, Director of Pelvic and Acetabular Trauma and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at San Francisco General Hospital. “These are common injuries, so the likelihood that the doctor has done many of these procedures is high.”

However, says Dr. Matityahu, there are three important questions that anyone should ask their doctor before having treatment to repair a broken hip or undergoing hip replacement surgery:

Hip fracture - Femur broken at the top.

1. “What kind of a hip fracture is it?”
2. “Will I be able to walk after surgery?”
3. “Do I need to have hip replacement surgery or can I just have the fracture treated?”

Dr. Matityahu says that some fractures will always need to have the hip socket replaced, while some injuries may be repaired, depending on the location of the injury. “After surgery the most important thing to know is whether you’ll be able to walk, so ask your surgeon first,’” he says. “Blood clots commonly occur with hip surgery; ask your doctor what type of anti-clotting medication will be used.”

Finally, says Dr. Matityahu, patients should ask if it’s necessary to see their primary physician before scheduling surgery, depending on their overall medical condition.

For more information visit Dr. Amir Matityahu’s website at http://www.amirmd.com or call (415) 206-8812.

About Dr. Matityahu:
Dr. Amir Matityahu is an orthopaedic surgeon specialized in complex orthopaedic trauma and reconstruction due to high velocity injuries. His areas of clinical interest are pelvic and acetabular fracture surgery, complex periarticular fractures, and percutaneous and submuscular fracture fixation techniques.

His research interests include testing innovative implant design for fracture care and acetabular and periarticular fracture biomechanics.

Current Assignment:
Assistant Clinical Professor, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California at San Francisco.
Director of Pelvic and Acetabular Trauma and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, San Francisco General Hospital.
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Finding The Best Spine Surgeon Is Critical For Back Pain Relief.

2011-08-17T08:49:00.000-07:00

The Spine Network of California Has Assembled The Leading Spinal Surgeons in the San Francisco Bay Area, Los Angeles, San Diego and Reno, NV.

San Francisco - Once a person discovers that spine surgery is needed, it’s critically important to find a spine surgeon who has the background and experience to treat each person’s specific medical condition, says Trudy Maurer, CEO of the Spine Network of California.

“The best outcome for spinal surgery is most likely to occur the first time a patient undergoes a procedure,” says Maurer. “It’s more difficult for a surgeon to correct or improve upon results from a previous surgery,” she says. “That’s why it’s important to consult with a spine surgeon who has the background and surgical experience to treat a person’s needs.” The Spine Network facilitates appointments with highly qualified spine surgeons who practice in the San Francisco Bay area, Los Angeles, San Diego, and Reno, NV. There is no charge for this service.

“When a person is diagnosed with a spinal injury or disease and surgery is the recommended course of treatment, it’s critical to receive that treatment as soon as possible. If surgery is delayed, further damage may occur which could diminish the results of a surgery. Spinal injuries can be among the most difficult medical conditions,” says Maurer. “The problem is compounded by stories of spine care gone wrong, leading some patients to believe that there can be no end to the pain. The Spine Network exists to provide quality care above all else, and has assembled the premiere spinal surgeons in the state of California.”

In order to join the Spine Network of California, each surgeon is required to have completed additional spinal fellowship training. Affiliated surgeons each perform more than 100 surgeries a year, which is more than any other general orthopedist in the country. “Our surgeons are among the most experienced spinal care providers in the U.S.: most have been in practice at least ten years, and some have been practicing for more than 20 years,” says Maurer. “Their advanced training and expertise make them uniquely qualified to correct the full range of spinal conditions--from the simplest injury to the most difficult failed surgery revision.”

For information on locating a qualified spinal surgeon contact Trudy Maurer, CEO of The Spine Network of California via email at trudy@spinenetwork.com or call 1-888-673-4575 9AM-5PM PST.
Visit the website at www.spinenetwork.com

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Spinal Stenosis May Be The Next Baby Boomer Trend - Dr. Kenneth Light

2011-08-10T14:35:00.000-07:00

San Francisco spine surgeon Dr. Kenneth Light comments on spinal stenosis treatment. He says the number of stenosis cases reflects the aging of a huge demographic group.

A normal spine and a spine with stenosis.

San Francisco, CA - From defining the “me” generation to changing the way we think about aging and retirement, the Baby Boomer generation has been driving trends since they were born. Now these 50 and 60-somethings are making their mark on back and spine health care. "Estimates predict that during the coming decade the cases of spinal stenosis will double," says spine surgeon Dr. Kenneth Light.

“Members of this age group, which are maintaining a level of physical activity undreamt of by their parents is fueling an increased demand for management of back pain as they inevitably begin to feel their age,” says Dr. Light.

Spinal stenosis is a degenerative condition that causes a narrowing of the spinal canal and compression of the nerves. “Spinal Stenosis usually affects people about 60 years of age and older, but it can also affect younger people who are born with small spinal canals,” says Dr. Light. “The condition denotes narrowing of the spinal canal, and / or narrowing of the nerve root canals, which conduct the individual spinal nerves.”

Stenosis occurs as a result of the growth of bone spurs and intervertebral discs bulging into the spinal canal, which take up the space normally occupied by the spinal cord and / or spinal nerves. “The symptoms can come on slowly or rapidly,” says Dr. Light. "We are seeing patients who are developing these problems at much earlier ages. People are more active than their parents and are remaining so much later in life. They’re simply expecting more from their bodies, even as they age," he says.

Dr. Light’s patient, “Susan” is one of those baby boomers who have developed spinal stenosis. "Mostly I love running, but I also do cardio and dance moves," she says. “But time is taking it's toll on my back. Sometimes the pain gets pretty severe,” she says. “When that happens, it’s really hard to move.”

Treatment for spinal stenosis can include conservative approaches such as physical therapy and medication. If these treatments don’t bring relief, surgery is the next option.

"There are some newer treatments with surgery that are less invasive or which involve more conservative techniques that may be beneficial, especially for the patient who wishes to maintain an active lifestyle." says Dr. Light. "The boomers want relief from the pain, but they don’t want to lose their ability to keep playing. That’s their next challenge. "

For information on back pain, stenosis and spinal fusion reversal, contact the office of Dr. Kenneth Light at 415.673.4500 or visit www.drkennethlight.com
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NeoGraft No-Scar Hair Transplant Results Shown In TV Story.

2011-08-09T13:28:00.000-07:00

The NeoGraft automated hair transplant system eliminates the unsightly scar left by the conventional "strip" hair transplant method. Ivanhoe Medical News recently taped segments with two surgeons and their patients, showing the results. The segments will be broadcast on approximately 100 television channels across the country on local newscasts.

Tickle Lipo now offered by Plastic Surgery Specialists in Birmingham, AL.

2011-08-09T12:16:00.000-07:00

Birmingham, AL. Double board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Robert Oliver explains his impressions in performing Tickle Lipo in this article taken from his blog, “Plastic Surgery 101”:

I am typically one of the biggest buzzkills for technology in plastic surgery and aesthetic medicine, particularly when it involves body contouring. As I've written about before, the whole laser liposuction (SmartLipo, et al.) thing has been very underwhelming on the results side (compared to traditional liposuction) for most practitioners willing to speak candidly on this. Recently, I decided to purchase a machine which is a little different kind of liposuction strategy. The technology, technically called Nutational Infrasonic Liposculpture (N.I.L), involves a novel hand piece with a tip that rotates in multiple dimensions while emitting low frequency vibrations.

In the United States, the technology is being marketed with the label "Tickle Lipo".

What's impressed me about the Tickle Lipo is the efficiency of the device for fat removal and the decrease in pain as compared to the gold-standard of traditional lipo. The decrease in pain is presumably from the fact that you can be much more gentle with the manual movement of the cannula while the vibratory effect is supposed to down regulate local pain receptors. When done awake or under light sedation, patient's describe the vibration as a "tickling" sensation, hence the name. SmartLipo and related devices hurt just as much as traditional liposuction (despite what's being marketed) because you still have to go back and remove the fatty tissue with a traditional suction devices, so you're really not doing anything different on that end. To my mind, Tickle Lipo is kind of a hybrid between power-assisted devices (PAL) and ultrasonic (UAL)without the heat generated by higher frequency ultrasound. The heat from UAL and SmartLipo can have severe complications with external or internal burns created.

At the recent meeting of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), (the premier cosmetic surgery meeting annually in the United States), members were surveyed on their feelings and practices re. liposuction. This survey group would be a representative of the most experienced and accomplished body contouring surgeons in the world. Standard liposuction was the preferred method of fat removal for 51% of them. Power-assisted liposuction (PAL) was second, preferred by 23% of respondents. Only 10% of ASAPS members surveyed employ laser-assisted liposuction (SmartLipo and others) in their practice. When these ASAPS members were asked why they used a laser liposuction platform, the main answer was that it gave them a marketing advantage (68%) rather then any clinical result. Ultrasonic liposuction (UAL) was the most likely method to have been abandoned by the respondents.

With regard to complications after liposuction, ASAPS members felt that ultrasonic and laser liposuction were the techniques most commonly associated with complications (35% and 23%, respectively).Of the respondents, almost 40% have taken care of a patient with significant complications secondary to laser liposuction. Contour deformity was the most common complication reported by respondents (71%), followed by unsatisfactory results (59%), burns (44%), and scarring (38%).

This has been our experience as well. We're seeing more issues from these laser devices, most of which are being performed by non plastic surgeons. I think that has to do with the fact that it's more frequently non plastic surgeons buying these platforms rather then the fact that we'd produce less complications with them (although I think we would). After conducting trials of a number of these technologies, we were just impressed with both the effectiveness and safety of Tickle Lipo.

For more information, visit Dr. Robert Oliver’s and Dr. Jason Jack's website: www.birminghamspecialists.com
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Dr. Roger Bassin: Unusual Plastic Surgery Requests

2011-08-03T16:04:00.000-07:00

From Fox 35 "Good Day", Orlando, FL:

Pippa Middleton made such a splash at her sister's royal wedding that a Facebook page was even created appreciating her posterior. And now cosmetic surgeons across the world are reporting an uptick in people wanting to have her shape.
World renowned cosmetic surgeon Dr. Roger Bassin from Orlando stopped by Good Day Wednesday to talk about unusual plastic surgery techniques

Unusual plastic surgery requests: MyFoxORLANDO.com

Dr. Kenneth Light: Spinal Fusion Reversal & Correct Stenosis Diagnosis Improve Results.

2011-08-03T14:58:00.000-07:00

Normal Spine & Spinal Stenosis Images

San Francisco, CA - Dr. Kenneth Light recently performed the first spinal fusion reversal procedures on two women from the San Francisco Area. He says that spinal disc implants may be an attractive alternative for for many patients, and an option for revision surgery those who still experience pain after undergoing a spinal fusion.

Until recently, the options for treating back pain and injuries was more limited, says Dr. Light. “For many years, spinal fusions have been and continue to be the first option among most spine surgeons to repair injuries and to address pain,” says Dr. Light.

“A spinal fusion procedure is routinely performed to address unstable vertebrae - spines that were slipping in various directions, or spines that were crooked, such as in scoliosis, to straighten and place the vertebrae back into alignment,” says Dr. Light. “Spinal fusions are still appropriate for those conditions,” says Dr. Light. “The main disadvantage is that a spinal fusion makes the back abnormally stiff and unable to function as it normally would.”

“Spinal disc implants were developed in Europe about 20 years ago and the results were very good,” says Dr. Light. “But it wasn't until about six or seven years ago that they were finally approved for use in the United States by the F.D.A . “Spinal disc implants allow for a greater range of motion, which can considerably improve a person’s quality of life,” he says.

Spinal stenosis-
“With the aging population, more people are having difficulty walking,” says Dr. Light - “There are 3 reasons why people over the age of sixty have problems walking: hip arthritis, arteriosclerosis, and spinal stenosis. All 3 conditions can present the same symptoms, so you could have hip surgery when you actually need stenosis treatment, for example’” says Dr. Light. ”The right diagnosis is essential, which is why it’s important to seek a qualified orthopaedic surgeon who can determine what is causing the symptoms.”

For additional information visit www.drkennethlight.com or call 415.673.4500.
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Body Contouring For San Diego Woman Gives Her a Tighter Tummy.

2011-07-31T15:35:00.000-07:00

Like many women, Galina, 34, was unhappy with the appearance of the skin on her abdomen after having children. She had areas of dimpling and loose skin which remained in spite of a regular exercise regimen, and she couldn’t lose a few inches around her waist. "Even with all that physical activity, I wasn’t happy with my appearance,” she says.

Even though she was skeptical that a non-surgical treatment could make much of a difference, Galina decided to try the VASER® Shape after consulting with Jeffry B. Schafer, M.D., FRSM, medical director of New Image Cosmetic Surgery and June Hill, HHP, a Body Contouring Specialist at the practice.

In most cases, treatments are recommended in a series of 5 to 7 sessions, with one treatment per week. Best of all, says Dr. Schafer, no additional treatments are normally required after the treatments are completed. June says that studies conducted in Europe show that three years after VASER® Shape treatments were completed, the fat has not returned.

Galina's smoother tummy.

“In five weeks I have lost two inches from my waist and and an inch and a half from my abdomen," says Galina. The skin is tighter and the "dimpling" is gone. I’m very happy with the results. My skin is younger-looking and much smoother!”

"The system generates dual ultrasonic signals which heat the fat cells,” says Dr. Schafer. He says that VASER Shape is "effective for targeted body areas including the front of the knees, the thighs, arms, the lower abdomen, virtually any problem area of the body. The VASER® Shape is the first non-surgical fat reduction device that I have judged to be effective enough to introduce to my patients.”

More men are seeking body contouring.
These are actual VASER Shape results.

“Each patient I have treated so far has lost between one and seven inches in combined measurements, in the first treatment,” says June. "We're also seeing male patients who want to lose inches from their "love handles" and abdomens."

For additional information visit New Image Cosmetic Surgery at www.sandiegolipo.com

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Hair Loss In Women : Dr. Barry DiBernardo Reports on NeoGraft

2011-07-21T16:47:00.000-07:00

Thinning Hair Affects 40% of Women by Age 40.

Montclair, New Jersey - Female hair loss can be particularly traumatic. Approximately 21 million women in the U.S. suffer from some degree of hair loss, and 40% of women have noticeable hair loss by age 40. Hair loss for women is often caused by heredity. Other reasons include hormonal changes, stress, illness, and poor nutrition.

Plastic surgeon Dr. Barry DiBernardo of Montclair, N.J. says the NeoGraft , a new automated hair harvesting and transplant device is especially suited for female hair restoration, as there is no need to cut a large strip from the scalp for harvesting hair: the device removes individual hair units for transplant into thinning areas, leaving no visible scars.

Hair restoration has changed little during the past decade - a large strip of scalp is cut out of the back of the head, "sliced and diced" to separate the hair follicles, then the hair is transplanted to the balding areas. Unfortunately, a large unsightly scar is usually left in the scalp, meaning that the man or woman cannot wear his / her hair shorter. Complications can also include loss of sensation at the scar site and raised, or hypertrophic scarring.

The NeoGraft device for hair transplants harvests hairs one at a time for natural results, and eliminates the huge scars caused by conventional "strip" method hair transplants.

The system automates the surgical removal, collection, and placement of individual hair follicles, one at a time, eliminating the need for doctors to remove a large strip from the back of the scalp (a procedure known as a linear-harvest Follicular Unit Transplant or "STRIP FUT"). The targeted removal of individual hair follicles is known as "Follicular-Unit Extraction" or FUE, is a minimally-invasive microsurgical procedure that has been available for several years, but until now has been too time-consuming and costly for many patients.

This approach allows more men and women to take advantage of the benefits of no-scalpel / no-stitch FUE hair transplants. FUE has been an effective surgical procedure that allows for the precise, artistic placement of new hair follicles to recreate a full and natural-looking hairline, while reducing recovery time and eliminating the unsightly linear scar associated with traditional hair transplants.

For more information visit www.newjerseyplastic surgery.com

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Color blind? Now there's an app for that too!

2011-07-21T15:58:00.000-07:00

Anew app for Iphones and Android is helping people to better perceive color: Click here

The DanKam iPhone App Helps With Perception of Colors.

Dr. Paul Glat Reports On A New Body Contouring & Fat Reduction Treatment.

2011-07-20T08:44:00.000-07:00

Philadelphia, PA - Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Paul Glat is the first physician in the Philadelphia area to provide Exilis non-surgical body contouring. “The treatments use a combination of ultrasound & radio waves which can take inches off your waist, abdomen, thighs and other problem areas,” says Dr. Glat, whose office is located in Bala Cynwyd.

Recent statistics compiled by The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery show the two most in-demand cosmetic procedures are the tightening of skin laxity and body shaping.

Fat cells are stored in the body in “lobules”, or clusters similar to a bunch of grapes. These fat cell lobules are wrapped in a fibrous tissue that holds them together. Until now, this tissue has made it virtually impossible to affect the fat clusters without performing liposuction.

As part of the process, mechanical waves help to separate the fat cell clusters into individual units. The exposed cells are then more accessible and responsive to treatment. High frequency energy causes targeted deep thermal heating, the fat cells shrink and the fat volume is reduced.

The “Exilis” is an FDA approved device that uses radio frequency and ultrasonic energy. Treatments reduce areas of fat in the waist, abdomen thighs, back and other body areas and can reach the deeper fat layers which until now have been difficult to treat non-surgically. Patients with small areas of excess fat or cellulite can see noticeable improvement with a series of Exilis treatments. Since there is no surgery involved, no recovery time is required.

Most people will require about 4 treatment sessions to reach their goals, says Dr. Glat.

Each treatment session takes 30 to 45 minutes or less and the best results are seen with a series of four to five treatments, spaced over a period of about six weeks. Results can often be seen after the first treatment and continue to improve with each additional treatment.

For more information call the office of Dr. Paul Glat at 866.472.6009 or visit www.drglat.com

The Spine Network of California: Back Pain Symptoms You Should Never Ignore.

2011-07-19T14:27:00.000-07:00

Back pain is one of the most common ailments among people of all ages. But if you have one or more of these warning signs which persist, it's time to see a spine surgeon for an evaluation, says Trudy Maurer, CEO of the Spine Institute of California:

1. stiffness in the back

2. inability to stand on your toes

3. difficulty in bending your body

4. pain brought on by sitting more than 20 minutes

5. inability to lift 10 pounds (such as a bag of groceries)

6. shooting pains in the legs

7. numbness along either leg or the toes.

8. pain in the buttocks or hips

Any of these symptoms may indicate a serious condition which should be diagnosed as early as possible. The Spine Network of California can facilitate appointments with highly qualified spinal surgeons who practice across California including the San Francisco Bay area, Los Angeles and San Diego, as well as Reno, NV.

For information on locating a qualified spinal surgeon, contact Trudy Maurer, CEO via email at trudy@spinenetwork.com or dial 1-888-673-4575 9AM-5PM PST.
Visit the Spine Network at www.spinenetwork.com

R. Laurence Berkowitz, M.D. Adds VASER Shape Body ContouringTo His Practice.

2011-07-18T14:25:00.000-07:00

Campbell, CA - The office of board certified plastic surgeon R. Laurence Berkowitz is performing non-surgical body contouring with the new VASER Shape system. If you’ve been thinking about spot fat reduction and body contouring you may not have to undergo liposuction to get the results you want. Many people carrying a few extra inches around their hips, thighs, waistline or arms may now have those stubborn fatty deposits removed with the VASER Shape procedure.

The technology uses ultrasound delivered through the skin to affect the fat. The other types of ultrasound treatments that have been available until now were invasive, requiring the use of a cannula (a tube as used in liposuction) introduced into the fatty tissue to heat tissue, so it became an actual surgical procedure.

The VASER Shape device is different because it uses two ultrasound sources that are positioned next to each other. The ultrasound energy converges like a V below the surface of the skin, says Dr. Berkowitz. After the fat has been disrupted, the body begins absorbing it, assisted by a lymphatic massage which is part of the treatment.

Most patients will see some immediate results – and treatments for most people are recommended in a series of 5 to 7 treatments, spaced every 5-7 days. The speed of the results varies based on the patient. Normally, once a person completes the round of treatments, no further follow-up treatments are necessary.

As with other body contouring devices, surgical and otherwise, this treatment is not for the extremely overweight and is not a weight loss plan. It is rather for those who are in generally good health but cannot get rid of a few stubborn areas of fat.

VASER Shape is designed for spot fat reduction and can be especially effective for men and women of average weight and those who are already maintaining a relatively healthy lifestyle. VASER Shape can be used to reduce unwanted fat from these common problem areas:
Inner thighs
Outer thighs
Love handles
Abdomen
Underarms
Upper back
Lower back

It’s important to keep in mind that VASER Shape will produce subtle yet noticeable results, and is a good match for patients who want to lose a few inches without surgery. If you are looking to lose larger volumes of fat, you may be a better candidate for traditional liposuction.

For more information, visit Dr. Berkowitz' website:
www.rlberkowitzmd.com
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Body Contouring with VASER Shape offers a non-surgical alternative.

2011-07-16T11:53:00.000-07:00

San Diego, CA - Dr. Jeffry Schafer of New Image Cosmetic Surgery in Coronado, CA says the VASER Shape is an effective treatment for non-surgical fat reduction and body contouring.

Spinal Fusion News - Spinal Fusion Reversal

2011-07-16T11:01:00.000-07:00

San Francisco, CA - Dr. Kenneth Light says that some spinal fusions may be "reversed" for patients who remain in pain years after having their fusions done. See the articles in this blog for more details.

The Dr. Oz Show: Dr. Roger Bassin with Naturalfill® Fat Transfer.

2011-07-16T10:30:00.000-07:00

In his Florida locations, Dr. Roger Bassin performs the Naturalfill ® "3-Way Fat Makeover" with body contouring, fat grafting for natural breast enhancement & facial volume rejuvenation. Dr. Bassin visited the set of The Dr. Oz Show
to demonstrate the facial rejuvenation capabilities of fat transfer.

Orlando, FL - "Michelle" is a 34 year-old mother of two and a small business owner. What Michelle would like more than anything is a makeover- she exercises regularly, but like many women, she can’t lose those last 2 inches from her tummy. Michelle says that she would also like to have larger breasts, just to be more in proportion with her body. “I don’t want to look overdone or too large”, she says, “I just want to bring these A+ cups up to around a B+ or C. And to complete my wish list, I wouldn’t mind having these “smile lines” on my face taken care of."

Dr. Roger Bassin says that the Naturalfill® procedure can address all three of Michelle’s concerns, all in one session and under local anesthesia. Michelle's tummy will be toned and slimmed, and her unwanted fat will be used to enhance her breasts and re-volumize her face.

Before-After Fat Transfer

Naturalfill® Breast Enhancement is an advanced fat “harvesting” and fat transfer technique that can help smooth irregularities, improve contour and add volume to the breasts. Dr.Bassin says that the Naturalfill® process results in breasts that look and feel softer and smoother than is possible with implants because the fat is transferred in a way that enables it to to grow its own blood supply and survive, becoming an integral part of the breast rather than a “foreign”, unnatural lump.

Dr. Bassin says there are four reasons for women to consider Naturalfill® breast enhancement:
1. For a natural-looking enlargement of one to two cup sizes.
2. Restoration of the breasts’ shape, appearance and size closer to what they were before pregnancy.
3.To correct embarrassing size discrepancies.
4. Restoration of breast contours following surgical lumpectomy procedures.

Intact fat cells are gently flushed from the body in targeted areas, then immediately injected into selected areas of the breast. The fat cells are left intact, so they have a high rate of survival for excellent long-term results. Since there’s no need for general anesthesia, downtime is greatly minimized.

A procedure called "Naturalfill® Face" can restore lost facial volume by using a woman's own fat, taken from selected body areas. The fat is then injected into specific areas of the face that need re-volumizing. Unlike synthetic fillers, the person's own fat can last for many years or even permanently.

Dr. Bassin recently made his second appearance on The Dr. Oz Show, where he demonstrated Naturalfill® fat transfer to add volume to a woman's face, restoring contours to her cheeks and mid-face areas.

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Dr. George Marosan Introduces TICKLE LIPO™ to Bellevue, WA.

2011-07-15T13:52:00.000-07:00

Bellevue, WA - Liposuction and body contouring are among the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures. With the right equipment in the hands of a skilled plastic surgeon, the body can be sculpted more precisely and with less downtime than could have been possible just a few years ago. TICKLE LIPO is fast becoming a preferred way to remove fat and to do precise body sculpting, especially in “problem” areas and for higher volume liposculpture.

TICKLE LIPO received its name based on comments from doctors who reported on the slight tickling sensation described by many patients during their procedures. The system takes a different approach to removing fat as TICKLE LIPO uses a “nutational” or rotating movement of the cannula to break up fat cells instead of relying upon heat. The movement of the cannula distracts and tricks the brain into perceiving a slight tickling sensation.

Like other types of liposuction, Tickle Lipo utilizes small tubes called “cannulas" to remove the fatty tissue beneath the skin. However, in TICKLE LIPO these cannulas, activated by air pressure vibrate and rotate beneath the skin's surface to more efficiently remove fat and cause less trauma to surrounding tissues. Given the advanced nature of this technique, the fat may also be used for fat grafting treatments with excellent results.

Dr. George Marosan is certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery and is a member of The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and  The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS).

Based on his extensive educational and training experience, as well as sound ethical and professional standing, Dr. Marosan was included in the prestigious ranks of “America's Top Physicians ” by the Consumers' Research Council of America .

For more information visit www.bellevueplasticsurgeons.com or call 425.450.1994
George Marosan, M.D. FACS
Bellevue Plastic Surgeons
11820 Northup Way, E, Suite E-190
Bellevue, WA 98005

media inquiries: www.doctorspr.com

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Amir Matityahu, M.D. Appears on ABC News San Francisco

2011-07-12T21:05:00.000-07:00

High-Tech Equipment is Helping To Fix Bone Injuries
at San Francisco General Hospital.

Story broadcast on KGO 7 News, July 12, 2011:

For additional information visit Dr. Matityahu's website: www.amirmd.com

YouTube: Overcoming Dentophobia - Fear of The Dentist.

2011-07-12T13:06:00.000-07:00

Dr. David Wyndhamsmith of Pasadena, CA is a board certified anesthesiologist and a dentist. Here he shows how he helps patients who experience "dentophobia:

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YouTube: Dr. Thomas Barnes & The Mini Neck ShrinkLift

2011-07-12T12:56:00.000-07:00

Newport Beach, CA cosmetic surgeon Dr. Thomas Barnes demonstrates a quick fix for a sagging neck:

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A New Year free from depression - NeuroStar Magnetic Therapy helps a man after years of medication, shock therapy.

2011-07-12T12:32:00.000-07:00

Although several therapies exist for people with severe clinical depression, including medication, psychotherapy and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), they don’t all work for everyone.

For many patients with severe depression — characterized by an all-encompassing low mood and loss of interest or pleasure in normally enjoyable activities — who have tried without success to relieve their symptoms with at least one round of medication, there now is a therapy that stimulates the brain, but does so without general anesthesia or lingering aftereffects. Called transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), the procedure uses magnetic fields to change the activity in a specific area of the brain thought to influence mood and emotion to improve the symptoms of severe depression.

NeuroStar TMS therapy is conducted in an office setting; a patient undergoing TMS sits in a chair resembling a recliner, while a large electromagnet is precisely positioned over his or her head to emit targeted electromagnetic pulses. While the patient’s head is gently secured in place, he or she is fully awake during the 45-minute sessions and is able to read, converse, watch videos or listen to music. The therapy is conducted five days a week over four to six weeks.

C.T. (Craig) Moon is a 38 year-old building contractor who, like millions of Americans has battled a long-term affliction with depression. Starting with his onset of symptoms as a senior in college, Craig has undergone many rounds of medication over the years, and he has been hospitalized twice. (Craig says that he knows of no specific reason or event that may have triggered his severe depression.) He has also has had a dozen ECT (electroconvulsive therapy) treatments (formerly known as “shock” therapy) which he says left him with some permanent memory loss.

Craig says that each new round of drug therapy did help for a time, but his depression came back, even during the course of therapy with medications. Last year, Craig’s depression reached a crisis level – he was then on six different medications and was doing poorly. “I couldn’t even follow details of a conversation or watch a TV show,” he says. While researching possible treatments that might help Craig, his wife learned that a West Chester psychiatrist, Dr. Terrence Boyadjis was providing a new form of magnetic, or "TMS" therapy, which is specifically indicated for depression patients who have undergone one or more rounds of medication.

Craig has now gone through the NeuroStar TMS round of treatment sessions and he says that he now finally has his life back – his symptoms of depression are significantly reduced, and he is on just a low dose of Zoloft at this time, a significant improvement over the past high doses of medication he required. Craig says that in addition to the benefits of the TMS therapy, he feels that the extra attention and interaction with Dr. Boyadjis during the treatment sessions has been very helpful. He is now running his business full-time once more.

"For the right patients, TMS therapy can offer a way back from depression that has not been available through conventional drug therapies," says Dr. Boyadjis.

More than 4 million patients do not receive adequate benefit from antidepressants which may in part be due to intolerance to their side effects. For these patients, they need a new way back.

NeuroStar TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation) Therapy is FDA-cleared for patients suffering from depression who have not achieved satisfactory improvement from undergoing prior prescribed rounds of antidepressant medications. Using pulsed magnetic fields, transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy stimulates the part of the brain thought to be involved with mood regulation. TMS Therapy is a short outpatient procedure, performed in a psychiatrist’s office. The typical initial course of treatment is about 37 minutes daily over 4-6 weeks.

See Dr. Amir Matityahu on KGO 7 News July 12th - "Repairing Pelvic Fractures".

2011-07-11T14:34:00.000-07:00

Amir Matityahu, M.D., Director of Pelvic and Acetabular Trauma and Reconstruction at San Francisco General Hospital will be seen in a story on surgery for pelvis fractures to be broadcast on Tuesday, July 12th on the 6:00 p.m. KGO Ch. 7 News in San Francisco.

The story features Dr. Matityahu and his patient who recently benefited from new surgical approaches and imaging technology used in treating accident injuries. The patient, Jenna Quarnes is a 24 year-old labor & delivery nurse who crashed her bike after her wheel caught in a MUNI rail line, sustaining multiple pelvic injuries.

Jenna, who sustained her injuries just three days after starting her new job at San Francisco General Hospital, is now on the mend and continuing planning for her wedding in October. Meanwhile, she's working at a desk job at the hospital until she's healed enough to resume working in labor & delivery.

Jenna's post-op x-ray showing the
hardware holding her pelvis together.

Dr. Matityahu says that Jenna's procedure took less time to complete than was previously required for such a complex injury and was performed with minimally invasive techniques, thanks in part to new generation imaging technology. "These factors can make the procedure less traumatic for the patient and allow faster healing times in many cases," he says.

"We have been working on advancing the software for the development of the computer assisted navigation of pelvis fractures," says Dr. Matityahu. "In this case, we were able to use this equipment to first create a virtual space that is represented on the computer screen. We are then able to move instruments and implants within that virtual space to allow very precise insertion of implants into corridors of bone that are barely able to accommodate these implants. Moreover, this can be done in 2D or 3D imaging."

"2D is taking several images using the fluoroscopic equipment and storing them in the computer," say Dr. Matityahu. After the computer recognizes the equipment, I am able to move the equipment virtually within the captured images and actually relative to the patient without having to re-take the images again and again every few seconds to see where the equipment is located relative to the images."

"3D is creating an intra-operative CT scan and storing it in the computer'" says Dr. Matityahu. "The navigation equipment registers the images, implants, and tools that we will use to place the hardware. After the computer recognizes the equipment, I am able to move the equipment virtually within several different cross-sectional CT images and also relative to the patient without having to re-take the images again. This technique actually lets me see where the trajectory of my implants is with in the bone allowing intra-operatively planning as I go,” says Dr. Matityahu.

For information on Dr. Matityahu visit www.amirmd.com or call (415) 206-8812.

Spine Surgeon in San Francisco Says Spinal Fusion Can Be Reversed.

2011-07-11T11:04:00.000-07:00

Back pain & injuries: Dr. Kenneth Light specializes in cases considered "hopeless," cases so severe that other physicians consider them beyond treatment. He recently performed the first spinal fusion reversal procedures in the U.S.

A 25 year-old woman survived after a horse fell on her, but severe pain and headaches follow her initial neck fusion surgery. Dr. Light determines she would do better with partial removal of the fusion hardware.

When the horse that Kendra Sayles was riding bucked, stumbled and fell on top of her on a Colorado ranch last year, she was lucky to survive. Kendra was left with multiple, life-threatening injuries including serious trauma to the vertebrae in her neck. She was finally discovered and taken by ambulance to a hospital in the nearest town, then transferred to a larger hospital for assessment and surgery. In addition to her neck injury, all of Kendra’s ribs were broken, she had a collapsed lung, a broken hip and femur and other serious injuries. “My surgeons told my family that I might not survive,” she says.

Kendra underwent multiple procedures to address her injuries including fusion surgery which stabilized her neck but left her with restricted range of motion. The fusion procedure did little to diminish the debilitating pain, which Kendra describes as “intense periods of unbearable pain alternating with periods of excruciating pain”. “Even though I was placed on morphine and other drugs, the pain was indescribable,” she says. My doctors told me I had to learn to live with the pain.

“I was only in my early 20’s, and I had a full and active life. Now I was in a state where I didn’t know if I wanted to live any longer; I was in a full body brace and the pain and confinement was so unbearable. I knew I could not accept living like this.”

Over the following months Kendra began to research spine surgeons, especially those who perform revision procedures. Kendra came across several articles and news stories on San Francisco spine surgeon Dr. Kenneth Light, who specializes in primary and revision spine surgery. Kendra began to correspond with him, sending dozens of medical mages of her neck injury. When Dr. Light told Kendra that he might be able to improve her condition, she scheduled a procedure to correct her previous surgery.

Dr. Light told Kendra that although he couldn’t make any guarantees, there was a good chance that he could relieve Kendra’s chronic pain and headaches along with the benefit of restoring some range of motion to her neck.

"Never give up hope" is Dr. Light's motto. "I don't believe in giving up on patients until I've tried everything possible to help them," he says. "When you're affecting the way people live their lives, you can't justify doing anything less."

Dr. Light determined that a portion of Kendra’s neck didn't need to be fused in the first place, so during the procedure he removed part of the apparatus used in the previous fusion, allowing for a more natural range of motion in her neck to be restored.

Kendra says that she noticed a difference as soon as she awoke from the anesthesia - the pain was gone. It’s now been a month since Kendra’s revision surgery and she is well on her way to enjoying a greatly improved quality of life. She says that her debilitating pain has been relieved and she can now move her head more normally. “It’s amazing how much you move your head in everyday life, when you’re driving a car or just talking with someone’: she says. “You don’t notice it until you lose that range of motion. I feel so fortunate to have found Dr. Light,” she says.

Dr. Light says that correcting a previous neck or back surgery can be difficult. “You must remove the hardware used in the previous procedure without causing any further injury to the affected area,” he says. “Then you start over again to fix the original problem. The best neck or back surgeries are those that are done well the first time.”

For more information visit www.drkennethlight.com or call 415.673.4500.
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Color Blindness App for iPhone Brings Color in Focus

2011-07-10T14:30:00.000-07:00

A new app for iPhone and Android helps people with certain types of colorblindness to better perceive colors:

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Spine Surgery, Los Angeles: The Spine Network on Stenosis

2011-07-06T16:19:00.000-07:00

Los Angeles, CA - The Spine Network of California reports that orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Clive Segil is performing a new, x-ray guided minimally invasive procedure to treat lumbar & "foraminal" spinal stenosis, which account for 1.5 million office visits per year and are among the most common reasons to have spine surgery. The "Foramina" are nerve openings in the lumbar spine; when bone spurs or growth compress the nerves, pain, numbness and other debilitating complications occur.

Dr. Segil explains that the new procedure employs the iO-Flex™ System: a very small incision is made and a miniature flexible saw is used by the surgeon, guided with x-ray imagery to perform decompression from the inside out. The procedure takes about an hour and requires a shorter recovery time than conventional surgical decompression procedures.

Dr. Clive Segil discusses stenosis and the iOFlex system in this video:

If a patient doesn't respond to conservative treatment, the conventional surgical approach has been an extensive procedure called a "decompressive laminectomy" in which the bone structures at the back of the spine are removed to alleviate pressure on the nerves caused by the stenosis, or narrowing of the spinal nerve openings.

The Spine Network of California can facilitate appointments with highly qualified spinal surgeons who practice across California including the San Francisco Bay area, Los Angeles and San Diego, as well as Reno, NV. There is no charge for this service.

For information on locating a qualified spinal surgeon or to learn more about patient advocacy services at The Spine Network of California, contact Trudy Maurer, CEO via email at trudy@spinenetwork.com or dial 1-888-673-4575 9AM-5PM PST.

Visit the website at www.spinenetwork.com

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Dentist Adds HydraFacial™ Skin Care To His Practice.

2011-07-06T14:09:00.000-07:00

Belleville, Illinois- Facial Rejuvenation Center at Dr. Gary E. Drake is excited to announce that they will now be providing the HydraFacial™ treatment at their medical spa. Dr. Drake is thrilled to be adding such a widely known and successful treatment to his community. “Adding the HydraFacial™ to my practice has been rewarding both in patient satisfaction and revenues increased by new cosmetic dental cases!” says Dr. Drake.

The HydraFacial™ is a soothing, moisturizing, non-invasive skincare treatment for anyone who is looking to improve and maintain the health of their skin. Proven effective for most skin types, this 30-minute treatment delivers instant results with no discomfort or downtime. The HydraFacial™ combines cleansing, exfoliation, extraction and hydration all while introducing antioxidants, Hyaluronic Acid, peptide complex, and other essential nutrients into the skin. The HydraFacial™ can have many skin benefits including enhanced skin tone and texture, reduced signs of fine lines and wrinkles and the appearance of hyperpigmentation, and improved appearance of oily or acne-prone skin.

For over 30 years Dr. Drake has been providing general and cosmetic dental services to the St. Louis area. Adding esthetic services that assist in providing youthful, radiant skin has brought a new dimension to the final cosmetic result received by our patients. The HydraFacial™ is the perfect addition to our service portfolio because the treatment if effective for all skin types and is appropriate for all age groups.

Visit our website at www.dentalandfacialesthetics.com

“We are thrilled to be the only dental practice in the St. Louis Area to offer the cutting edge, HydraFacial™ medical treatment. Our patients have seen a reduction in fine lines and increased skin hydration in as few as 3 treatments!” says Denise Drake, Business Director.

“Rosacea is one of the most challenging skin conditions to treat. The HydraFacial™ has been very effective in reducing the frequency of breakouts for several of our clients.” says Jessica Fauss, Esthetician.)

The HydraFacial™ was developed by Edge Systems Corporation, a worldwide leader in developing advanced aesthetic technologies. Located in Southern California, the company is known for its high quality, leading edge skincare products and systems. See www.edgesystemscorp.com for more information.

Body Contouring in San Diego Goes High Tech with VASER Shape.

2011-07-05T16:26:00.000-07:00

Coronado, CA - Dr. Jeffry Schafer, Medical Director of New Image Cosmetic Surgery says that the VASER Shape is a effective device for fat reduction and body contouring.

VASER Shape is a non-surgical, non-invasive treatment that uses ultrasound technology to break the fat cell walls, releasing body fat which is then metabolized by the body.

VASER Shape treatments do not replace diet and exercise, but are a non-surgical alternative to liposuction. Treatments can be performed on most areas of the body: Upper/Lower Abdomen, Upper Arms, Love Handles, Buttocks, Knees, Lower Legs, and Inner/Outer Thighs.

Patients are measured before and after their treatment and will leave with inch loss – guaranteed the same day. Dr. Schafer discusses the VASER Shape in this video:

"One treatment session takes about an hour depending on the number of areas treated," says June Hill, Body Contouring Specialist at New Image Cosmetic Surgery. "VASER Shape treatments are scheduled once a week. We recommend 6 to 10 treatments, and patients start to see results immediately. Best of all, after the treatments are completed no follow-ups are required."
For information visit www.sandiegolipo.com or call (800) 810-1580.

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Edge Systems Rolls Out The Red Carpet At IECSC, Las Vegas

2011-06-27T16:11:00.000-07:00

SIGNAL HILL, CA- During the International Esthetics, Cosmetics and Spa Conference Las Vegas, Edge Systems rolled out the red carpet to introduce the HydraFacial™ as the “Red Carpet Ready” treatment for the aesthetic industry. This soothing, non-invasive skincare treatment delivers immediate results with no downtime, making it the ideal treatment for any red carpet event.

Edge Systems provided celebrity service at their booth, offering complimentary HydraFacial™ treatments and fun photos on the red carpet. With hundreds of guests at the booth, the Edge Systems team was busy offering HydraFacial™ treatments to guest after guest. Rochelle, who received her first HydraFacial™ at the show said, “It was the best treatment that I ever had. My skin feels soft and has a beautiful shine to it. I highly recommend The HydraFacial™ to everyone.”

Even current HydraFacial™ owners stopped by the booth to share their excitement about the HydraFacial™. Bunnie, who recently added the HydraFacial™ to her location, said, “We just bought a HydraFacial MD® and we love it. It is so easy to use and our patients love it.”

The HydraFacial™ is a moisturizing, non-invasive skincare treatment for anyone who is looking to improve and maintain healthy skin. Proven effective for all skin types, this monthly 30-minute treatment delivers instant results with no discomfort or downtime. The HydraFacial™ combines cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, and hydration all while Vortex-Fusing™ antioxidants, Hyaluronic Acid, peptides and other essential nutrients. The HydraFacial™ can have many skin benefits including enhanced skin tone and texture, reduced appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and improved appearance of oily or acne-prone skin. “Being in the skin care industry it is nice to see and FEEL a product which does give you immediate looking results,” said Jennifer, a guest of the HydraFacial™ booth.

HydraFacial™ is featured often in the news and on television. This clip is from a recent segment on "The Doctors".

About Edge Systems
Edge Systems is an FDA registered manufacturer of advanced aesthetic technologies and products that deliver high return on investment (ROI) opportunities. Edge provides ongoing, comprehensive marketing support to help increase customer's profitability. Edge's premier system is the HydraFacial MD® skin solution based hydradermabrasion system, ranked one level above IPL for skin rejuvenation. For information on upcoming Red Carpet Events, contact Edge Systems call 800-603-4996, e-mail contact@edgesystemscorp.com or visit www.edgesystemscorp.com and www.hydrafacial.com
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Dr. R. Laurence Berkowitz: The Ribbon Neck Lift firms up a sagging neck

2011-06-25T17:53:00.000-07:00

Campbell, CA - Plastic surgeon Dr. R. Laurence Berkowitz says a minimally invasive procedure can help a person look 10 years younger without undergoing a face lift. Thin "ribbons" placed under the skin lift and elevate the neck and mid-face, then are gradually absorbed by the body, leaving the tissues healed in position.

Ribbon Neck Lift Before and After

Dr. Berkowitz says the Ribbon Neck Lift rejuvenates the face with remarkable results.

Over 18,000 patients have been treated with "Endotine" ribbons. Dr. Berkowitz was one of the first surgeons in the country to use the Endotine ribbon. He has developed a special technique that is providing significant clinical results with excellent long-term rejuvenation effects.

For information on the Ribbon Neck Lift visit Dr. Berkowitz' website: www.rlberkowitzmd.com or call 408.559.7177.

Dr. Berkowitz' office is located at 3803 S. Bascom Avenue, Suite 100, Campbell, CA 95008.

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HydraFacial™ Builds Business for Medical Spas.

2011-06-25T08:10:00.000-07:00

Los Angeles - The HydraFacial™ is gaining considerable media attention as the most effective non-laser skin rejuvenation technology. The HydraFacial™, as the centerpiece of an ongoing skin care regimen, allows the spa or physician’s office to tie together all cosmetic services and procedures, generating substantial growth and client / patient loyalty.

Now HydraFacial™ providers are reporting increased revenues by positioning HydraFacial™ as the focal point of their business, ranging from light skin treatments to lasers and other cosmetic surgery procedures.

The increasing demand for minimally invasive skin treatment is fueling growth for medical spas and physicians who provide aesthetic services and procedures. Many people are seeking to look younger and refreshed without having larger procedures done, which often requires extended downtime away from work or normal activities.

The affordability of HydraFacial™ treatments combined with the benefit of instantly visible results creates a foundation for effective, lifelong skin care for clients. While HydraFacial™ treatments are being used to help reduce the appearance of sun damage, fine lines, acne, dryness and other skin problems, injectable fillers, laser treatment or cosmetic surgical procedures may be added as needed to the person’s skin treatment program.

HydraFacial™ treatments are usually repeated on a monthly basis for skin maintenance, which opens the door to more patient traffic being exposed to all that’s offered at a medical spa. The HydraFacial™ is effective for stand-alone skin rejuvenation or in combination with virtually any other cosmetic treatment or procedures including pre- and post- cosmetic surgery.

The HydraFacial MD® machine combines multi-modality resurfacing procedures including the HydraFacial™, LED Light Therapy, and Lymphatic Drainage Therapy to help generate the highest patient/client satisfaction and maximum revenues for aesthetic and medical practices. Visit www.hydrafacial.com or www.edgesystemscorp.com.

To learn how HydraFacial™ can bring increased revenue and increase client loyalty, contact Megan Reeves, Business Development Consultant at Edge Systems Corporation 800-603-4996 or email mreevesedgesystemscorp.com
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VASER Shape non-surgical body shaping comes to San Diego.

2011-06-24T11:07:00.000-07:00

New Image Cosmetic Surgery in Coronado, CA now offers non-surgical targeted fat reduction with the VASER Shape, a new body shaping device which can deliver some of the results of liposuction with no surgery or downtime.

The VASER® Shape technology uses ultrasound, which is known to disrupt fat cells. “The system combines two ultrasonic signals that penetrate and combine under the skin to heat the fat cells,” says Jeffry B. Schafer, M.D., FRSM, medical director of New Image Cosmetic Surgery, and one of the world’s leading authorities on liposuction and fat transfer. Dr. Schafer says it is effective for reducing fat in small, targeted areas of the body.

“I have been in practice since 1978 and have been performing liposuction for the past 16 years,” says Dr. Schafer. “The VASER Shape is the first non-surgical fat reduction device that I determined to be effective enough to introduce to my patients.”

June Hill, HHP is a Body Contouring Specialist at New Image Cosmetic Surgery. “Every patient I have treated so far has lost between one and seven inches in combined measurements, in one hour,” she says. Most patients will see immediate results with VASER Shape – and treatments for most people are recommended in a series of 5-7 treatments, at about 20-30 minutes each, with treatments spaced every 5 to 7 days. Unlike other non-surgical fat reduction treatments, no additional follow-up treatments are required after completion of the VASER Shape series of treatments.

Before & After

Dr. Schafer says that VASER Shape can be used to reduce unwanted fat from problem areas including: inner & outer thighs, love handles, abdomen, arms & the back.

New Image Cosmetic Surgery is located in Coronado, CA. Visit www.sandiegolipo.com or call 1-800-810-1580.

Media inquiries, contact Gary Grasso, Director- Doctor's P.R. Email to ggrasso@doctorspr.com or visit www.doctorspr.com

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Dr. Kenneth Light -Spinal Disc Replacement Relieves Pain.

2011-06-14T14:37:00.000-07:00

San Francisco man has a new type of artificial disc replacement to relieve back pain from injuries suffered in an auto accident.

Tax accountant Frank Natale has undergone a "pro-Disc-L" disc replacement procedure, performed by spine surgeon Dr. Kenneth Light to repair lower back damage and alleviate pain from injuries suffered when he was rear-ended by a pickup truck at a red light. According to 5 different doctors, his alternative was a spinal fusion, which would have left him incapacitated for 6 months. He did have one surgical procedure to attempt to fix some of his injuries; a discectomy to remove the damaged portions of his discs but the pain came back and actually got much worse.

Frank says the pain is largely gone and he can now walk more normally. He will next have the damaged discs in his neck replaced.

Dr. Light says that fusions are appropriate in many cases, especially where no other treatment will help but that there are now alternatives that can help a person regain full movement and mobility, rather than having their vertebrae "frozen", which can lead to significant side effects including pain and increased stress to adjacent vertebrae. In some cases the fusion will heal in the wrong position, causing a tilting of the spine.

Until recently, the only course of treatment for people with certain back injuries has been a spinal fusion procedure, which is done to stabilize the spine and to prevent further damage to the injured area. However, spinal fusion has several disadvantages including a variable loss of range of movement in the treated areas, recurring pain and further damage to the spine.

"Total disc replacement using a device called the “ProDisc-L or C Implant, may be a better approach” says Dr. Light. “Artificial disc replacement is an attempt to fix complicated back and neck injuries.”

The implant has been designed to maintain the physiological range of motion in the spine. Most patients experience little downtime after the procedure and can often return to most regular activities in a matter of days, says Dr. Light.

Website: www.drkennethlight.com

Dr. Kenneth Light graduated from the Cornell University College of Medicine in New York City. He completed his residency in Orhopaedic Surgery at the University of California in San Francisco., and completed a fellowship in spinal surgery under the guidance of Edward H. Simmons at the State University of New York in Buffalo. Dr. Light was director of the spine clinic at San Francisco General Hospital, and was founder and medical director of the San Francisco Spine Center at Saint Francis Memorial Hospital. He is a fellow of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgery, is board certified with the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery and Assistant Clinical Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at University of California, San Francisco. He is currently in private practice in San Francisco where he specializes in reconstructive surgery in patients who have had failed back surgery.

The Spine Network - Clive Segil, M.D. on Spinal Stenosis

2011-06-09T16:33:00.000-07:00

Comments by Los Angeles orthopaedic surgeon Clive Segil, M.D. on a new, minimally invasive procedure to treat a type of spinal stenosis called "foraminal" stenosis. "Foramina" are nerve openings in the lumbar spine.

Lumbar spinal stenosis accounts for 1.5 million office visits per year, and is one of the most common reasons to have spine surgery.

If a patient doesn't respond to conservative treatment, the conventional surgical approach has been an extensive procedure called a "decompressive laminectomy" in which the bone structures at the back of the spine are removed to alleviate pressure on the nerves caused by the stenosis, or narrowing of the spinal nerve openings. However, this approach has the disadvantage of destabilizing the spine.

Dr. Segil explains that a new, minimally invasive procedure uses the iO-Flex™ System in which a very small incision is made and a miniature flexible saw is used by the surgeon, guided with x-ray imagery to perform decompression from the inside-out. The procedure takes about an hour and has a shorter recovery time than conventional surgical decompression procedures.

For additional information, contact Trudy Maurer, CEO of The Spine Network of California at 1-888-673-4575 or visit www.spinenetwork.com
Dr. Segil explains the iO-Flex™ procedure in this video:

New Service Provides Doctors With Quality Content for Websites.

2011-06-01T09:43:00.000-07:00

Doctor’s P.R. Announces QualityMedContent, a New Service To Provide Original Content and Video For Websites, Blogs and Articles for all fields of medicine, healthcare and aesthetics.

Original content and Video is more crucial than ever to ensure that your website, blogs and articles will show in search engine results. Web content that is recycled from other sources, such as manufacturer's descriptions of medical devices and procedures or descriptions of treatments can have a negative effect on web visibility.

Doctor's P.R. and Medical News can provide customized, quality content for all medical and health care related topics in an ongoing program designed to supply fresh, original content on a regular basis. Email Gary Grasso, Director for details to ggrasso@doctorspr.com or call 626.222.7955.

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Got Hair? Dr. Paul Glat of Philadelphia talks about “NeoGraft” Hair Restoration.

2011-05-23T15:00:00.000-07:00

Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Paul Glat is the first physician in Philadelphia to provide the NeoGraft hair transplant procedure. Hair is harvested without leaving a large linear scar, making the procedure ideal for women as well as men.

"Hair follicles are gently lifted out of the scalp with a tiny instrument and gentle suction, and then placed into bald or thinning areas with reverse air pressure. The results are so natural looking that many of the first patients were doctors," says Dr. Glat.

The NeoGraft, a new device for "harvesting" and transplanting hair eliminates the huge scar left in the back of the head by the conventional STRIP method of hair restoration. The NeoGraft can be used on men and women with virtually all degrees of hair loss in a fast
and minimally invasive procedure. "The results are an incredibly natural looking head of hair, which can be worn as short as desired because the hair is not harvested by cutting out a huge strip from the back of the person's head," says Dr. Glat. "A complication sometimes seen with the "strip" surgery is a feeling the scalp is too tight from the suturing together of the scalp. Sometimes permanent numbness in the area where the piece of scalp was removed occurs."

"NeoGraft has totally changed the way we do hair restoration," says Dr. Glat. "We have been able to use the NeoGraft to perform procedures on patients who were not good candidates for a traditional procedure due to lack of donor site. Also, we have had numerous patients who never would have had hair restoration if they would had to have a long scar on the back of their head."

The NeoGraft device utilizes FUE* (Follicular Unit Extraction) to quickly and painlessly remove hair follicles from the back of the head and implant the follicles into the balding areas. Using gentle air pressure to smoothly slide out each hair follicle, there is no twisting, pulling or cutting, thus avoiding any damage. Then, the hairs are quickly implanted which maintains their viability and increases the success of the grafting process.

The result is the maximum possible scalp coverage with no surgery, no linear scarring, minimal discomfort, fast recovery times and natural looking results.

"With NeoGraft, up to 1,500 grafts can be completed in a single day, making the process much easier on the patient," says Dr. Glat. Visit www.drglat.com or call 610.980.4000.

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HydraFacial™ is the most effective non-laser skin treatment.

2011-05-19T14:15:00.000-07:00

Beautiful skin with no downtime is possible for virtually any skin type or color.

When it comes to having perfect skin, women have tried everything. It's too bad the results (constant irritation, sudden redness, skin scaling off for a week) aren’t as dramatic as the methods.

The HydraFacial™ is a better approach: a non-irritating treatment that exfoliates but also hydrates the skin at the same time. Designed for all skin types and conditions (acne, wrinkles, and dark circles), it infuses the skin's surface with moisturizing serums and gently removes impurities. The results can often be seen immediately and continue to improve with the treatment sessions. Facial acid peels with little or no post-peel scaling or downtime are also possible with the HydraFacial™, a non-laser resurfacing system that hydrates the skin while it resurfaces in a process called "hydradermabrasion".

Most mechanical skin treatment systems are very irritating to the face and so each treatment can only go so far. The HydraFacial system combines mechanical with chemical exfoliation, allowing for a much more complete facial treatment. The device also injects specialized serums into the dermis which hydrate the skin at the same time.

The system uses a simultaneous combination of specialized serums with a spiral resurfacing tip, achieving results comparable to many types of laser treatments.

Microdermabrasion used to be considered the most effective method of exfoliation and mild skin rejuvenation. This mechanical form of exfoliation uses a powerful device to spray microcrystals of aluminum dioxide (corundum powder) across the skin's surface to blast away the uppermost layer of epidermis, mixing with suction to remove the outer layer of skin while stimulating collagen and elastin production.

The problem is, microdermabrasion is not recommended for all skin types. People with sensitive or thin skin, Rosacea or ethnic skin types are often turned away due to the potential of reactions such as scarring, hyper-pigmentation and irritation. A small percentage of those who did receive treatment reported discomfort around sensitive tissue such as the mouth and nose and a hyper-sensitivity to sun exposure.

The HydraFacial offers a highly effective alternative, using the newest form of skin resurfacing technology that is non-invasive and non-irritating. It is also the only procedure currently available that integrates cleansing, exfoliation, extraction and hydration simultaneously, saving time and giving immediately noticeable results with no discomfort or downtime.

Used with specifically formulated serums in combination with a vacuum-based skin abrasion tip, HydraFacial treatments remove dead skin cells and impurities while bathing the healthy underlying skin with deep cleansing, extracting, exfoliating and antioxidant serums. The proprietary serums are formulated to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, congested pores, hyper-pigmentation and acne-prone skin. The treatments are appropriate for most skin types including thin or aging skin, darker skin tones and oily skin. The HydraFacial uses color-coded tips to exfoliate, clean, hydrate and perform extractions on the skin at the same time.

For more information and to find a HydraFacial™ provider, visit http://www.hydrafacial.com

HydraFacial™ is often featured on TV news and talk shows. Here, ABC News shows the HydraFacial used for acne treatment:

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The Spine Network of California Offers The First Spine Surgery Patient Advocacy Service..

2011-05-19T13:29:00.000-07:00

Trudy Maurer brings years of experience to assist patients with the details of treatment choices, insurance coverage and claims.

San Francisco - “Once you discover that you may need spine or neck surgery, you’re really faced with two challenges,” says Trudy Maurer, CEO of The Spine Network of California. “First, you need to find the right surgeon for your particular needs, one who has extensive experience in his or her field,and then you must navigate the often confusing world of insurance claims, coverage and post-operative care. These issues can overwhelm a person, especially when they are in pain and want relief,” she says.

“The best outcomes for a spinal surgery procedure are most likely to occur the first time a patient undergoes a procedure,” says Maurer. “It’s much more involved for a surgeon to correct or improve upon results from a previous surgery,” she says. “It’s critically important to find a spine surgeon who has the background and experience to treat a person’s medical condition.

The Spine Network facilitates appointments with highly qualified spinal surgeons who practice in the San Francisco Bay area, Los Angeles and San Diego, as well as Reno, NV. There is no charge for this service.

However, too often once a person is matched with the right surgeon, the battle begins with the insurance company to confirm coverage for the surgery. “An insurance company could deny a claim based on outdated information, or as a matter of policy, even for procedures that are considered routine “standard of care,” says Maurer.

The Spine Network of California has launched a new, optional Patient Advocacy service to assist patients to deal more effectively with their insurance companies. “Most people are not experienced in approaching insurance companies and speaking to them in their ‘language’ in order to gain approval for their surgery,” says Maurer. Research shows that it takes an average of 24 to 30 calls for a Patient Advocate to resolve an insurance-coverage issue,” she says. The Spine Network advocacy services include communication with the insurance company and submission of documents in order to gain approval of procedures and evaluation appointments.”

Patient advocacy services are limited to spinal surgery issues and are available regardless of which surgeon ultimately performs a procedure, whether that surgeon is a member of the Spine Network of California or not, says Maurer. The Patient Advocacy service is a separate service offered by the Spine Network of California, at an hourly rate.

In one case, a 36 year-old woman who had suffered two separate injuries while lifting heavy objects at work was diagnosed by her spine surgeon with 2 herniated discs in her lumbar spine (described in medical terms as a “level 2” injury, meaning that 2 discs are affected), and she was in constant pain.

The patient did have one surgical procedure a few years ago to attempt to fix her problem; a discectomy to remove the damaged portions of her discs to relieve pain; the procedure seemed to help for a while but the pain returned and grew much worse over time. Her surgeon explained that arthritis had also formed in the damaged areas, adding to her discomfort and loss of full mobility.

The patient learned another fact; that workman’s comp insurance companies often won’t cover a level 1 artificial disc replacement procedure, and will almost never cover a 2-level procedure, although a 2-level procedure is what most people need. “That’s a real problem”, says Maurer, “since many patients actually have a 2 - level injury. That means that there are many people out there who are not covered to have the best standard of care for their injuries. Patients need to work with their advocates to convince their insurance companies to change this policy”, says Maurer. “In this patient’s case, it took 2 arbitration sessions to finally gain approval to have her procedure covered.”

“When a person is diagnosed with a spinal injury or disease and surgery is the recommended course of treatment, it’s critical to receive that treatment as soon as possible”, says Maurer. “If surgery is delayed, further damage may occur, which could diminish the results of a surgery. In these cases, medicine delayed is medicine denied.”

Visit the website at www.spinenetwork.com

#####http://www.spinenetwork.com/of_California/patient_info.html

Dr. Kenneth Light Relieves Pain After a Woman's Neck Fusion

2011-05-18T13:21:00.000-07:00

After sustaining severe injuries from a horse riding accident and undergoing extensive surgery including a neck fusion, a 25 year-old woman is left in severe pain and with restricted movement of her head. She then finds Dr. Kenneth Light, a renowned spine surgeon in San Francisco and undergoes a life-changing procedure to improve her quality of life. See this link: prlog.org/11498297

Back pain can sideline executives, says Dr. Kenneth Light.

2011-03-24T08:42:00.000-07:00

Back pain and spinal injuries don't just cause pain and loss of mobility, they can affect a company's bottom line when an executive or entrepreneur is put out of action, says a spine surgeon. Alternatives to spinal fusion can preserve range of movement.

San Francisco, CA - Spine surgeon Dr. Kenneth Light specializes in restoring mobility and easing pain for people who are affected by back pain, spinal injuries or disease. He is known as the "doctor of last resort" for his innovative procedures including artificial disc replacement and spinal fusion reversal.

For anyone serving in an executive position or a person running his or her own business, the effects of downtime caused by back problems take on an added impact - lost revenue and productivity which can affect the entire business.

"It's critical for people in executive and managerial positions to be able to perform at their peak levels," says Dr. Light. "It's even more important to seek the right physician for diagnosis and a treatment plan the first time, as it is much more difficult for the surgeon to correct a prior procedure which has not yielded satisfactory results." A large portion of Dr. Lights cases consist of revisions.

Dr. Light recently performed the first spinal fusion reversal procedures in the United States, and routinely performs the latest artificial spinal disc replacement procedures to restore mobility and ease the pain of neck and back injuries and disease.

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Dr. Kenneth Light says spinal disc replacement an alternative to spinal fusion.

2011-03-14T21:57:00.000-07:00

Back pain & injuries: San Francisco spine surgeon Dr. Kenneth Light describes the advantages of artificial spinal disc implants - www.prurgent.com/2011-03-14/pressrelease156703.htm

Hair loss corrected with NeoGraft automated hair transplant device.

2011-03-01T13:58:00.000-08:00

Philadelphia plastic surgeon Dr. Paul Glat demonstrates the NeoGraft no-scar hair transplant procedure on ABC Channel 6 News:

Study on hand rejuvenation shows the hands are a major sign of aging.

2011-02-28T08:06:00.000-08:00

A study from England shows that the condition of a woman's hands can give away her age, regardless of how well she takes care of her face. See www.prlog.org/11337743

How to Avoid a Nose Job Nightmare. Revision rhinoplasty can fix mistakes.

2011-02-27T20:52:00.000-08:00

Each year, over half a million people in the U.S. consult plastic surgeons beacuse of a desire to improve the appearance of their noses, often with an operation called a "rhinoplasty" or "nose job".

"Since the nose is the most defining feature of the face, even a slight alteration can greatly change a person's appearance," says Dr. Stephen Pincus, a board certified facial plastic surgeon who practices in Beverly Hills, CA.

Most plastic surgeons will agree that the nose is the most challenging part of the body to work on and achieve an aesthetically pleasing result. However, there are steps you can take to help ensure that you get the nose you want.

And a subspecialty of sorts has emerged, composed of "Nasal Revision Specialists", facial plastic surgeons who focus on fixing the mistakes of other doctors.

There are many factors that impact the results of a rhinoplasty including the original deformity, the expertise of the surgeon, the skin type, the postoperative care and of course the patient's expectations.

"As with any plastic surgery procedure, the patient should have a realistic approach to what is achievable, and to clearly communicate with the surgeon" says Dr. Pincus. "The more specific you are in the exact details of shape, size and symmetry that you desire, the easier it is for the surgeon to comment on what he or she can do."

According to Dr. Pincus, here are the most common reasons are unhappy with their noses:

The Pinched Tip
The hanging "columella" (the area between the nostrils)
The drop (rounded) tip
The crooked nose
The scooped nose
The high tip
Crooked nasal bones
The wide nose
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Dr. Paul Glat & NeoGraft hair transplant on Philadelphia T.V.

2011-02-09T00:43:00.000-08:00

The NeoGraft automated hair transplant process is demonstrated by plastic surgeon Dr. Paul Glat of SeaHair in Bala Cynwyd, PA, in a segment on CBS 3 News covering new hair loss treatments:

Depression treated with NeuroStar magnetic therapy.

2011-01-26T10:53:00.000-08:00

Grand Rapids, Mich. (from WZZM 13 News) - Depression is often a very difficult condition to treat. Sometimes it takes months or even years for patients to find the right medication. A new treatment in Grand Rapids uses magnetic stimulation instead of medication and one patient says it changed her life.

"It's irritating when you're depressed, it's irritating even to brush your teeth," said Phyllis Meyers. She has suffered with depression for nearly 15 years until she was recommended to psychiatrist Dr. Henry Mulder of Psychiatric Associates of West Michigan, who thought she would be an excellent candidate for a new type of magnetic therapy called Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).

"People thought if we can pulse the brain with an electromagnetic field that will produce some current in the brain cells running perpendicular to it and low and behold it does," said Dr. Mulder. He uses the NeuroStar device at his practice in Grand Rapids to help transmit the magnetic stimulation. "The motorstrip is usually at the back of the ear but that's usually our first landmark to see where we're going to place the magnet."

Once the magnet is in place a series of pulses are transmitted into Phyllis' brain stimulating it's metabolism and signaling it to wake up the neurons so they can once again communicate. "It can be an alternative for people who can't tolerate medicine or don't want to take medication but it also can be used in combination with the two augmenting each other," said Dr. Mulder.

Each treatment lasts about 37 minutes and is given every day for about a month. So far the results Dr. Mulder is seeing from the new magnetic stimulation therapy are impressive. He said, "We know that at a year's time about 90% still have the positive effects of the treatment."

But it doesn't always mean that patients like Phyllis will immediately be able to stop taking their medication. "It can work together, and in my case we knew that I'd have to stay on medication for a while, but in a few months he's going to start taking me off the medication and I'm very excited about that," said Phyllis Meyers.

It's something she wants to share with others who suffer from depression. "One day at a time you can move from here into a better place in your life. And it's never too late," she said.

Doctor's P.R. provides health, aesthetic and medical news and information via broadcast, online and print media. All articles and physician statements are intended for general informational purposes only and are not to be used as medical advice. Always consult a physician for advice on any specific medical condition or when considering any treatment or procedure.
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The "Body Lift" helps people regain body shape after extreme weight loss.

2011-01-23T22:48:00.000-08:00

Montclair, NJ - Obesity is an epidemic in this country, but some doctors insist the pendulum is starting to swing the other way. But along with big weight loss can come a lot of excess skin.

That's where a procedure called the "Body Lift" is helping some people rediscover their curves.

Often, after weight loss (through bariatric surgery or otherwise) many people suffer from excess skin, which can be uncomfortable and unsightly. This excess skin is found in the forms of massive skin folds in the arms. It can also be found on the abdomen and legs, which can cause chafing and bacterial and yeast skin infections.

"Debbie" weighed more than 275 pounds when she underwent gastric bypass surgery. Since then, she has lost more than 150 pounds -- but another problem was eating away at her self-esteem: "l just was uncomfortable. I was always self-conscious. I might only be 150 pounds, but I still had all this skin that just hung there," she said. "And there was no amount of exercise I could do that would get rid of that."

But when Debbie was referred to Dr. Barry DiBernardo, she found a new way to rid herself of the excess skin.

"It's becoming an artful way of redistributing tissues or using that extra skin or shaping it so a patient actually has a waistline, a nice full bottom and breasts that look normal in spite of the scarring," Dr. DiBernardo said. The doctor removed the excess skin from Debbie's abdomen and continued around to her entire back, removing and tightening the skin and tissue. As a result, she was left with a circular scar around her waist and within the panty
line, which will fade somewhat. The recovery period is approximately two to three weeks.

But was the procedure painful? "It was uncomfortable, but not unbearable. I was focused to what I wanted, so I never really thought about the pain," she said.

"Because these people have come so far with their weight loss and have taken so many risks already, they are elated with the ability to be able to have a body again," says the doctor.

Debbie said she sailed through her surgery and healed extremely well. "I feel normal now. I can go buy clothes and I don't have to worry about the shirt being longer, you know, from the side view. It's just totally different," she said.

For information visit www.newjerseyplasticsurgery.com

Dr. Barry DiBernardo is the Medical Director of New Jersey Plastic Surgery® in Montclair, NJ, immediate past President of the New Jersey Society of Plastic Surgeons (2005-2006), an Associate Clinical Professor in Plastic and Reconstructive surgery at UMDNJ, and Chief of the Aesthetic Surgery Program at Mountainside Hospital. “My job is to keep our practice at the forefront as one of the leading aesthetic plastic surgery practices in this country — striving for excellence in cosmetic procedures and in patient care.”

A 1984 graduate from Cornell University Medical College, Dr. DiBernardo received the school’s Charles H. Horn Prize for outstanding leadership and service to the medical community.

He spent five years as a general surgeon at Mount Sinai Medical Center in Miami Beach, Florida, before embarking on a two-year residency in Plastic Surgery at the Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine in N.Y. In 1991, Dr. DiBernardo began his work in private practice. Also in 1991, he received the Leo M. Davidoff Award for teaching distinction at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, and, a year later, the American Society of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeons’ National Scientific Exhibit Award, in Washington D.C. Dr. DiBernardo is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, and is the Certified International Instructor for multiple laser and light based systems as well as skin care modalities. His hospital appointments include University Hospital at the University of Medicine & Dentistry of New Jersey in Newark; Mountainside Hospital, Montclair; and Clara Maass Medical Center, Belleville, NJ.

Media inquiries: Gary Grasso, Director, Doctor's P.R.
email: ggrasso@doctorspr.com www.doctorspr.com

Women May Be More Likely Than Men To Suffer Knee Sprains & Injuries-

2011-01-22T23:48:00.000-08:00

Knee sprains and tennis elbow are among the most common sports and exercise related injuries and the most difficult to treat. Females in particular may be more susceptible to certain injuries, especially knee sprains and ligament tears.

This is thought to be due to physiological differences in the knees between the sexes and the increased numbers of girls and women who are playing sports and engaging in physical activities and exercise, as compared to previous generations. "PRP", a new non-surgical treatment can help speed healing and restore function to injured joints.
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy offers a promising solution to accelerate healing of tendon injuries and osteoarthritis naturally without subjecting the patient to significant risk. PRP is an emerging treatment in a new health sector known as "Orthobiologics." The philosophy is to merge cutting edge technology with the body's natural ability to heal itself.

Platelet Rich Plasma, or PRP is blood plasma with concentrated platelets. The concentrated platelets found in PRP contain huge reservoirs of bioactive proteins, including growth factors that are vital to initiate and accelerate tissue repair and regeneration. These bioactive proteins initiate connective tissue healing: bone, tendon and ligament regeneration and repair, promote development of new blood vessels, and stimulate the wound healing process.

Blood is made of RBC (Red Blood Cells), WBC (White Blood Cells), Plasma, and Platelets. When in their resting state, platelets look like sea sponges and when activated form branches. Platelets were initially known to be responsible for blood clotting. In the last 20 years physicians have learned that when activated in the body, platelets release healing proteins called growth factors.

There are many growth factors with varying responsibilities, however cumulatively they accelerate tissue and wound healing. Therefore after increasing the baseline concentration of these platelets, we are able to deliver a powerful cocktail of growth factors that can dramatically enhance tissue recovery.

To prepare PRP, a small amount of blood is taken from the patient. The blood is then placed in a centrifuge. The centrifuge spins and automatically
produces the PRP. The entire process takes less than 15 minutes and increases the concentration of platelets and growth factors up to 500%.
When PRP is injected into the damaged area it stimulates the tendon or ligament causing mild inflammation that triggers the healing cascade. As
a result new collagen begins to develop. As this collagen matures it begins to shrink causing the tightening and strengthening of the tendons or ligaments of the damaged area.

PRP injections can be performed in tendons and ligaments all over the body. Sports injuries, arthritic joints, lower back, degenerative disc disease andmore specific injuries including tennis elbow, carpal tunnel syndrome, ACL tears, shin splints, rotator cuff tears and plantar fasciitis may all be effectively treated with PRP.

Putting The Squeeze on Heart Disease

2011-01-21T08:04:00.000-08:00

Enhanced External Counterpulsation, or EECP, is a non-invasive therapy that literally shakes up heart disease.

A person lies on a bed with a series of inflatable cuffs placed around his or her legs. The cuffs are attached to a computer which in turn is linked to electrodes that monitor the heartbeat. The cuffs are sequentially inflated & deflated between each heartbeat, driving blood into the heart during its resting phases.

EECP is a non-surgical treatment option for individuals who experience symptoms from cardiovascular disease. It helps increase the flow of blood to the heart. EECP is FDA approved, covered by Medicare and clinical studies have shown 85% of patients treated with EECP® experience a reduction in angina and are able to return to a more active lifestyle.

EECP eliminates chest pain by inflating and deflating pneumatic cuffs that are placed on the legs up to the buttocks. Inflation and deflation is timed by a compuer off your heart rate, to increase the amount of blood flow back to the heart. The increased oxygen supplied by the new blood flow provides additional nourishment to the heart muscle thereby diminishing cardiac symptoms.

As the legs are squeezed, blood flow is increased as it is pumped back to the heart. The contractions are timed to the patient's heartbeat. The treatment helps people with debilitating heart disease symptoms to get moving again. Enhanced External Counterpulsation, EECP, is a non-invasive therapy that literally puts the squeeze on heart disease.

"We're exercising the circulation by getting more and more blood to flow through your blood vessels," says Legacy Heart Care Director Michael Gratch. "They become more mature, they develop, and it's been shown in scientific studies to actually grow and develop more blood vessels -- restoring normal blood flow to the heart."

Although the therapy is not a cure for heart disease, improved blood flow relieves debilitating symptoms. EECP is not a replacement for other proven therapies for heart disease. Heart patients still get the usual treatments and advice about lifestyle changes. But these more traditional ways are being used in concert with EECP.

Medicare, but not all private insurers cover the procedure. Legacy Heart Care is located in Fort Worth, TX.

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Stretch Marks Affect Both Sexes - Especially After Weight Loss Surgery

2011-01-16T13:56:00.000-08:00

By Lana Erin

Dr. Simon Ourian of Epione Beverly Hills says new technology can greatly reduce or even eliminate stretch marks virtually anywhere on the body. The Coolbeam is shown to significantly reduce the appearance of new and old stretch marks in men and women. The increase in weight loss surgery creates a new category of patients with unsightly stretch marks.

Stretch marks happen – and not, as many may believe, just to women after pregnancy. Men and women who have lost a large amount of weight can also be affected. The popularity of bariatric surgeries has created an entirely new set of patients for stretch mark treatment. It stands to reason that a weight loss of one hundred pounds or more will impact the skin, and these patients are as likely to be men as women.

Stretch marks can appear nearly anywhere on the body but especially on the thighs, hips, abdomen, lower back, buttocks, and arms. Stretch marks are irregular areas of skin that look like bands, stripes or lines, which typically appear as red, thinned skin and may turn whitish over time. A stretch mark occurs when there is a breakdown in the elastin and collagen fibers that make up the dermis, the underlying layer of the skin.

It’s no stretch to say that people of all ages suffer from the embarrassment of stretch marks – and many have tried topical creams or laser treatments to get rid of them. The problem is, none of these approaches work very well. But laser treatment is providing patients with visible results.

The answer for many lies in Coolbeam Treatments, says Dr. Simon Ourian, Medical Director of Epione, who developed the treatment parameters for the device. “Our patients are seeing good results with Coolbeam. After treatments they feel confident to wear swimsuits and other revealing clothing. Significantly, we can treat older stretch marks as well as newly-formed marks.”

Can stretch marks be made to vanish completely? "In most cases, no," says Dr. Ourian. "They are dermal scars. However, their appearance can now be significantly minimized."

Patient comfort is also important, and that’s another benefit of the treatment process. First, the entire area of the skin to be treated is cooled using a special device which reduces skin sensation. Then the Coolbeam is used to flash a series of light pulses across the skin. Each pass removes a tiny amount of surface skin – a ten millionth of an inch at a time. The treated skin cells are vaporized and new skin quickly grows in the treated areas, diminishing the appearance of stretch marks

Dr. Ourian says that the energy emitted by the Coolbeam can be controlled to treat just the desired areas only as deeply as needed, instead of a large “general” area. Before treatment, patients given a plan to prepare their skin – since everyone’s skin is different, a pre-treatment regime tailored specifically to each person’s needs is provided.

The treatments are considered very safe. However, a temporary change in skin pigmentation, discomfort and swelling in the treated areas may occur. Most patients report that they experience little to no pain during the actual treatment.

Freeze Your Fat Away with Zeltiq at New Jersey Plastic Surgery

2010-12-27T14:00:00.000-08:00

Can you freeze away your saddlebags, tummy "pooch"or love handles?
"CoolSculpting" by Zeltiq is now FDA approved for non-invasive fat reduction.

Now available at New Jersey Plastic Surgery in Montclair, N.J.
Dr. Barry DiBernardo, board certified plastic surgeon - Medical Director.
www.newjerseyplasticsurgery.com
The device utilizes the science of Cryolipolysis™ with advanced proprietary engineering into the Zeltiq System. What makes the Zeltiq Procedure different from other non-invasive modalities for fat removal is its advanced cooling technology that selectively targets and eliminates fat cells gently and gradually while sparing all other tissue.

Each CoolSculpting procedure results in a 20% reduction of fat on average in the treated area. Most patients can begin to see results as soon as three weeks after treatment.

How CoolSculpting Works:
With the Zeltiq Procedure, a specially designed cooling applicator is applied to the desired area of fat reduction to extract energy (cooling) from the underlying fat tissue without damage to other tissues. The applicator cup uses a gentle vacuum pressure to draw the tissue between the cooling panels. During the
procedure, the applicator delivers precisely controlled cooling conditions that have been proven to target and eliminate fat cells in specific areas of the body. When fat cells are exposed to precise cooling, they trigger a process of natural removal that gradually reduces the thickness of the fat layer.

The system controls the rate of energy extraction or cooling during the procedure. The result is a reduction in fat bulges. The fat cells in the treated areas are gradually eliminated through the body's normal metabolic processes.

With this non-invasive technology, there are no needles, no incisions, no need for anesthesia or pain medications, and no recovery time. Patients resume normal activities following the procedure.
For more information on Zeltiq visit www.newjerseyplasticsurgery.com
or call New Jersey Plastic Surgery located in Montclair - 973.509.2000

Dermatologist Dr. Sandra Lee appears in another segment on "The Doctors".

2010-12-13T20:07:00.000-08:00

The Upland, CA dermatologist tapes another segment on the popular T.V. show. This time Dr. Lee shows the skin rejuvenating benefits of a new laser treatment at her practice, Skin Physicians & Surgeons.

patient, Dr. Lee and producer at "The Doctors" studios

Viewers of the national T.V. show "The Doctors" see Dr. Sandra Lee and a patient in a segment showcasing new ways to use the MIXto fractional CO2 laser for skin rejuvenation. Dr. Lee brought her patient, Jackie to the show's studios in Hollywood where she demonstrated the laser treatment and showed Jackie's results minutes later in front of the show's live audience.

The MIXto laser is effective for skin resurfacing, tightening and wrinkle reduction. Dr. Lee showed how the laser can be used to improve skin not only on the face, but on other areas of the body as well.

Sandra Lee, M.D. is a board certified dermatologist and a member of the American Academy of Dermatology, the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, and the American Society for MOHS Surgery.

She practices in Upland, California where she divides her office time among general dermatology, dermatologic surgery, and cosmetic surgery. She has special interests in Mohs micrographic skin cancer surgery, tumescent neck and body liposuction, eye lifts, and laser resurfacing. She also has been extensively involved in clinical studies, is published in multiple journals and medical textbooks, and lectures at a national level to fellow dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons.

Doctor's P.R. provides health, aesthetic and medical news and information via broadcast, online and print media. All articles and physician statements are intended for general informational purposes only and are not to be used as medical advice. Always consult a physician for advice on any specific medical condition or when considering any treatment or procedure.

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Women's back pain: Dr. Kenneth Light shows how to keep your spine feeling fine.

2010-12-09T16:47:00.000-08:00

Nine Ways Women Can Avoid Back Pain: Hints from a spine surgeon.

70 percent of women will suffer from lower back pain at some point in their lives.

"A 30-year-old woman who has an aching back and limited mobility can feel like an 80-year-old,"

says Dr. Light, a San Francisco spine surgeon who is known by patients as the “doctor of last resort” for aching backs and spinal injuries.

"At least 70 percent of women will suffer from back pain at some point in their lives," says Dr. Light. "Sleep, sex, sitting--I can't imagine any activity that isn't affected by the back. It's involved in almost everything we do. You can't get in and out of a car, run, jump or walk. Until you have back pain, you don't realize everything that a back does for you," says Dr. Light.

For most, back pain is only a temporary problem that can be alleviated with conservative (non-surgical)

treatment such as rest, medication, physical therapy, spinal injections and the use of orthotics. Patients suffering from chronic back pain that does not improve with conservative (non-surgical) treatment may require surgery.

Dr. Light says there are 9 Things women can do to avoid back pain:

1. Do an early morning stretch. It’s a good idea to start the day stretching while they're still in bed," says Dr. Light. "Remember that you've been lying prone for eight hours, and if you jump right up, you may be looking at a sore back." So before you get up, slowly stretch your arms over your head, then gently pull your knees up to your chest one at a time. When you're ready to sit up, roll to the side of the bed and use your arm to help prop yourself up. Put your hands on your buttocks and slowly lean back to extend your spine.

2. Walk. Walking and other aerobic exercises such as swimming, biking and running keep your back healthy by conditioning your whole body. They strengthen the postural muscles of the buttocks, legs, back and abdomen. Try doing an aerobic workout for 20 minutes a day, three times a week.

3. Take breaks from constant sitting. Sitting puts more strain on your back than standing. If you must sit at your desk for an extended time or you're traveling, change position often and give your back a break by standing up and walking around every hour or so.

4. Kneel, don't bend. Avoid bending over at the waist to pick up something. That creates tension in the back and increases your risk of injury. Instead, use long-handled tools and kneel on a cushion or knee pad to garden, vacuum or do other "low-level" activities.

5. Let your legs do the work. If you're lifting something--no matter if it weighs 5 pounds or 50--bend your knees, keep your back straight, and lift with your legs. The legs are much stronger than the back and can lift a lot more weight without strain

6. Test the load. "How many of us have strained back muscles when we tried to pick up boxes that we thought were empty but were actually filled with encyclopedias?" asks Dr. Light. Always nudge a box with your foot or cautiously lift it an inch or so before really trying to heft it. If it's too heavy for you, ask for help.

7. Straighten up. Maintaining good posture is one of the best ways to prevent back pain. To improve your posture, try this. Stand against a wall or sit in a dining room chair, making sure that your shoulders and buttocks touch the wall or your chair. Slip your arm into the space between your lower back and the wall or chair. If there is a point where your hand isn't touching both your back and the wall or chair, tilt your hips so that the extra space is eliminated. Hold that position for a count of 20 while looking in a mirror to see what your posture looks like. Do that exercise once a day for three weeks to ensure that good posture will become a habit.

8. High heels change your gait, put additional stress on your lower back and adversely affect your posture. If you wear high heels on a daily basis try to wear them for no more than two hours at a time. Always have a pair of tennis shoes or flats available.

9. Check your mattress. Your mattress should provide proper support, be level and not sag.

But by far, the most common cause of back pain is muscle strain. Lifting something when your back is out of shape is like someone pulling you out of the crowd at the New York Marathon and forcing you to run the 26-mile course. You're probably going to get hurt, because you're straining your back in ways that it's not prepared for.

Of course, even well-trained athletes can get back pain, but in general, the better conditioned you are, the less likely your spine will cause problems. See your doctor if the pain is so intense that you can't move, if it spreads to your legs or buttocks, if your legs or feet feel numb or tingly, or if you also have a fever or abdominal pain.

For more information visit Dr. Light's website: http://www.drkennethlight.com or call 415.673.4500.

Back pain responds to two high-tech procedures, says Dr. Kenneth Light

2010-12-07T10:15:00.000-08:00

San Francisco - Spine surgeon Dr. Kenneth Light is known by his patients as the "Doctor of Last Resort" for helping people with back pain & spinal injuries, and for fixing unsuccessful procedures. He says that two newer procedures can improve the quality of life for many people.

Nearly 80% of Americans will suffer from back pain during their lifetime. Most commonly, back pain is caused by muscle strain, but it can also be attributed to a variety of traumatic and degenerative conditions, including:
* Spinal stenosis
* Osteoarthritis
* Bone fractures
* Osteomyelitis
* Spondylolisthesis
* Degenerative disc disease (DDD)

Dr. Light says that two high-tech procedures are revolutionizing back treatment:

1. The "X-LIF" System For Minimally-Invasive Back Surgery helps patients with spinal disc degeneration & other back problems.

2. “Pro-Disc” Artificial disc replacement can fix complicated back problems without resorting to a spinal fusion.

For most, back pain is only a temporary problem that can be alleviated with conservative (non-surgical) treatment such as rest, medication, physical therapy, spinal injections and the use of orthotics. Patients suffering from chronic back pain that does not improve with conservative (non-surgical) treatment may require surgery.

The lower back surgery technique, called Extreme Lateral Interbody Fusion, or “X-LIF” is a possible surgical alternative for sufferers of back injuries, painful scoliosis and degenerated spinal discs.

Pro-Disc Replacement:

In the past, the only course of treatment for people with certain back injuries including work-related injuries has been a spinal fusion procedure, often done to stabilize the spine and to prevent further damage to the injured area. However, spinal fusion has several disadvantages including a variable loss of range of movement in the treated areas and, in many cases, recurring pain and further damage to the spine.

Now there is a better approach - total disc replacement using a device called the “ProDisc-L Implant,” says Dr. Light, “Artificial disc replacement is an attempt to fix complicated back problems without resorting to a spinal fusion.” The implant has been designed to maintain the physiological range of motion in the spine An added benefit is shortened recovery time for most patients. “I believe that artificial disc replacement will eventually replace 70% to 80% of all spinal fusion surgeries," says Dr. Light.

Most patients experience little downtime after the procedure and can often return to most regular activities in a matter of days.

For more information visit Dr. Kenneth Light's website: www.drkennethlight.com or call 415.673.4500. See Dr. Light in a recent T.V. news story on back pain: www.youtube.com/watch?v=lQXTg2kwr2o

*****

Dr. Rigo Mendoza says a new mini tummy tuck leaves a smaller scar.

2010-12-01T11:38:00.000-08:00

Now women can have a tummy tuck and leave the lights on! Doctor's P.R. placed plastic surgeon Dr. Rigo Mendoza on Fox 35 News - Orlando in a story on his minimally invasive "teeny tummy tuck" which greatly reduces the size of the resulting scar. The procedure can be done through a woman's existing C-section scar; for women who have not had a C-section, the resulting scar will be similar in size - much smaller than a conventional tummy tuck. Dr. Mendoza practices at the Bassin Center for Plastic Surgery in Orlando and Tampa, FL. Visit http://www.bodybybassin.com/

Dr. Stephen Mulholland appears on the TODAY Show

2010-11-10T16:45:00.000-08:00

Internationally known plastic surgeon Dr. Stephen Mulholland appeared on the TODAY Show in a series of segments covering the Contour ThreadLift. This segment aired in June 2005 and was followed by a similar story on Good Morning America.
Link to the story: http://www.metacafe.com/watch/4614598/doctors_p_r_places_dr_stepehen_mulholland_on_national_t_v/

Doctor's P.R. provides health, aesthetic and medical news and information via broadcast, online and print media. All articles and physician statements are intended for general informational purposes only and are not to be used as medical advice. Always consult a physician for advice on any specific medical condition or when considering any treatment or procedure.
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Mitochondrial Disease can be diagnosed with a new test.

2010-09-28T21:56:00.001-07:00

Los Angeles, CA – MEDomics, LLC, has completed its second set of MitoDx™ personalized medicine tests for the diagnosis of mitochondrial diseases.

“The first MitoDx test was performed on a young girl (referred to as Ann) with mitochondrial disease and hypoglycemia”, says Steve Sommer, MD, PhD, Founder and Medical Director of MEDomics. Ann had episodic vomiting that lasted hours or even days. She often had periods of lethargy and fatigue. Ann was sensitive to both heat and cold, and had poor muscle tone and poor coordination. She has had multiple hospitalizations and almost died. After inconclusive testing and several misdiagnoses, Ann was ultimately referred to Richard Boles, MD, a specialist in pediatric mitochondrial disease at Children's Hospital Los Angeles where she was diagnosed clinically with probable mitochondrial disease.

Ann’s entire mitochondrial genome was sequenced, not once or twice, but thousands of times. The SOLiD NextGen sequencing platform developed by Life Technologies was used for testing because of its low error rate and high throughput. This rigorous sequencing of mitochondrial DNA by MitoDx can detect mixtures (heteroplasmy) of normal and mutant DNA even when the mutant or normal form is present at very low levels. This allows mitochondrial disease to be evaluated much more sensitively in an accessible tissue like blood or saliva.

Richard Boles, MD, the Director of the Mitochondrial and Metabolic Disorders Clinic at Childrens Hospital Los Angeles says, “MitoDx has confirmed the patient’s clinical diagnosis of probable mitochondrial disease.

Mitochondria are the “power plants” of the cell, providing energy for cellular processes, including growth and metabolism. Mutations in mitochondrial genes may decrease energy production and affect multiple organs. Mitochondrial diseases are much more common than originally thought, with a prevalence of about 1:500. In children, mitochondrial diseases are as common as all childhood cancers combined.“

Mitochondrial diseases can be difficult to diagnose. Organs generally have different levels of the mutation, so the symptoms are extremely diverse and depend on which tissues happen to be the most energy compromised in a given family member. The most commonly affected organs are brain, muscle, eye, gastrointestinal tract, and heart. If a given mutation is at high frequency in the brain and intestine, neurological and gastrointestinal symptoms may predominate; if the mutation is at high frequency in the muscle and intestine in a sibling, neuromuscular and gastrointestinal symptoms may predominate.

Dr. Sommer says, “While there is no cure as yet, the diagnosis of mitochondrial disease can save lives by enabling effective treatment. Current treatment involves increasing available energy, decreasing energy stressors, and tissue-specific treatments.”

Mitochondrial disease may arise from new mutations or may be inherited from the mother. Since mitochondrial DNA is not parceled out evenly during egg formation, some children may get a large dose of the mutated DNA, causing severe illness, while others may get a smaller dose, causing milder symptoms or none at all.

For more information on MitoDx and diagnosis of mitochondrial disease, visit http://www.medomics.com

About MEDomics:
MEDomics is a molecular diagnostic laboratory founded in 2008 by Steve S. Sommer, MD, PhD, with the mission of providing Mutation Expert-based Diagnosis (“MED”) to support the physician in delivering personalized medicine based on genomic analyses of the patient’s DNA (“omics”). The mutation experts at MEDomics provide unparalleled quality interpretation to aid the practicing physician.

Dr. Sommer, Founder, President, and Medical Director of MEDomics, is a Founding Fellow of the American College of Medical Genetics with 25 years experience in Clinical Molecular Diagnosis and over 300 scientific publications and patents.
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Spinal fusion reversal can ease pain, restore movement, says Dr.. Kenneth Light

2010-09-22T18:09:00.000-07:00

San Francisco spine surgeon Dr. Kenneth Light has performed a new spinal fusion reversal procedure.

The "fusion reversal" relieved years of pain for "Bobbie Jo", a 40 year-old Santa Rosa, CA woman who had a cervical (neck) fusion performed years ago after suffering an injury.

Over 150,000 spinal fusions are performed in the U.S. each year to treat injuries or degenerative disease. Dr. Light says that is way too many. He says that the basic principal used in spinal fusions performed on the neck or back vertebrae hasn't changed since the 1890's. More importantly, the actual results of spinal fusion hasn't improved in 60 years, he says.

Until recently, the only course of treatment for many patients has been a spinal fusion procedure which is done to stabilize the spine and to prevent further damage to the injured area. However, spinal fusion has several disadvantages including a variable loss of range of movement in the treated areas and in many cases, recurring pain and further damage to the spine.

Dr. Light says that fusions are appropriate in many cases, especially where no other treatment will help. "However, there are now alternatives that can help a person regain full movement and mobility, rather than having their vertebrae "frozen", which can lead to significant side effects including pain and increased stress to adjacent vertebrae. In some cases the fusion will heal in the wrong position, causing a tilting of the spine."

After examining Bobbie Jo, Dr. Light suggested that she consider another approach - total disc replacement using a device called the “ProDisc-C Implant”. Says Dr. Light, “Artificial disc replacement is an attempt to fix complicated neck and back problems, and this implant has been designed to maintain the physiological range of motion in the spine. An added benefit is shortened recovery time for most patients. “I believe that artificial disc replacement will eventually replace 70% to 80% of all spinal fusion surgeries," says Dr. Light.

X-rays show the patient's neck vertebrae fused and how the neck anatomy now appears, after the fusion reversal procedure. She now shows greatly improved range of movement than was possible with the fusion in place. Dr. Light believes that many more physicians will soon consider alternatives to spinal fusion in order to give patients an improved quality of life.

For more information, visit http://www.drkennethlight.com or call 425.673.4500

Dentophobia - overcoming your fear of the dentist.

2010-09-07T13:34:00.000-07:00

"Overcoming Fear Of The Dentist". Dr. David Wyndhamsmith, M.D., D.D.S. with information on how he uses sedation dentistry to help patients overcome their fears of having needed dental procedures.

The Bad Breath Guru Strikes Again!

2010-09-07T10:47:00.000-07:00

Harold Katz, D.D.S. is a renowned dentist, bacteriologist and the founder of the TheraBreath line of products formulated to prevent or eliminate bad breath.

Doctor's P.R. provides health, aesthetic and medical news and information via broadcast, online and print media. All articles and physician statements are intended for general informational purposes only and are not to be used as medical advice. Always consult a physician for advice on any specific medical condition or when considering any treatment or procedure.
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2 High-Tech Procedures for Back Pain, Spinal Injuries Improve Results

2010-09-06T22:55:00.001-07:00

Two high-tech back procedures can relieve pain and restore range of motion in the neck or back with much shorter recovery times than are possible with traditional procedures.

Dr. Kenneth Light of San Francisco is known as the "Doctor of Last Resort" for helping people with back problems & chronic pain, and for fixing procedures that have been unsuccessful. He says that two procedures are revolutionizing back treatment:

1. The "X-LIF" System For Minimally-Invasive Back Surgery helps patients with spinal disc degeneration & other back problems.

2. “Pro-Disc” Artificial disc replacement can fix complicated back problems without resorting to a spinal fusion.

Nearly 80% of Americans will suffer from back pain during their lifetime. Most commonly, back pain is caused by muscle strain, but it can also be attributed to a variety of traumatic and degenerative conditions, including:

Spinal stenosis
Osteoarthritis
Bone fractures
Osteomyelitis
Spondylolisthesis
Degenerative disc disease (DDD)

For most, back pain is only a temporary problem that can be alleviated with conservative (non-surgical) treatment such as rest, medication, physical therapy, spinal injections and the use of orthotics. Patients suffering from chronic back pain that does not improve with conservative (non-surgical) treatment may require surgery.

> The lower back surgery technique, called Extreme Lateral Interbody Fusion, or “X-LIF” is a possible surgical alternative for sufferers of back injuries, painful scoliosis and degenerated spinal disc.

XLIF involves a small incision in the patient's side over the hurt disc. X-rays guide tubes down to the spine using special tools to avoid muscle and tissue damage. They're locked into place with a flexible arm so the doctor can fuse the spine. (Conventional surgery requires a 12-inch incision.)

Aside from getting rid of the pain and recovering quickly, the XLIF has other benefits compared to the traditional open back surgery known as standard lumbar fusion. There is less blood loss, the incision is shorter, the operation is quick and the fusion of the spinal disc is better.

With standard back surgery, it can take six months to a year to fully recover. But this new technique cuts that down to six to eight weeks.

Dr. Light says "XLIF has opened up the ability for me to do complex spinal surgery in a minimally invasive manner. It means the world for patients to be able to recover in the shortest possible time and return to normal activities."

> Pro-Disc Replacement: In the past, the only course of treatment for people with certain back injuries including those caused by work-related injuries has been a spinal fusion procedure, which is done to stabilize the spine and to prevent further damage to the injured area. However, spinal fusion has several disadvantages including a variable loss of range of movement in the treated areas and, in many cases, recurring pain and further damage to the spine.

Now there is a better approach - total disc replacement using a device called the “ProDisc-L Implant,” says Dr. Light, “Artificial disc replacement is an attempt to fix complicated back problems without resorting to a spinal fusion.” The implant has been designed to maintain the physiological range of motion in the spine An added benefit is shortened recovery time for most patients. “I believe that artificial disc replacement will eventually replace 70% to 80% of all spinal fusion surgeries," says Dr. Light Most patients experience little downtime after the procedure and can often return to most regular activities in a matter of days.

Dr. Light's website: www.drkennethlight.com

Dr. Kenneth Light was director of the spine clinic at San Francisco General Hospital, and was founder and medical director of the San Francisco Spine Center at Saint Francis Memorial Hospital. He is a fellow of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgery, is board certified with the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery and Assistant Clinical Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at University of California, San Francisco.

He is currently in private practice in San Francisco where he specializes in reconstructive surgery in patients who have had failed back surgery.

*****

Dr. Kenneth Light performs the first spinal fusion reversal in the US.

2010-07-20T15:34:00.000-07:00

San Francisco spine surgeon Dr. Kenneth Light recently performed the first spinal fusion reversal done in the United States. The procedure relieved years of pain for "Bobbie Jo", a 40 year-old Santa Rosa, CA woman who had a cervical (neck) fusion performed years ago after suffering an injury.

"Many fusions should not be done as a first choice", says Dr. Light.

In the past, the only course of treatment for many patients has been a spinal fusion procedure which is done to stabilize the spine and to prevent further damage to the injured area. However, spinal fusion has several disadvantages including a variable loss of range of movement in the treated areas and, in many cases, recurring pain and further damage to the spine.

After examination, Dr. Light suggested that Bobbie Jo consider another approach - total disc replacement using a device called the “ProDisc-C Implant”. Says Dr. Light, “Artificial disc replacement is an attempt to fix complicated neck and back problems.” The implant has been designed to maintain the physiological range of motion in the spine. An added benefit is shortened recovery time for most patients. “I believe that artificial disc replacement will eventually replace 70% to 80% of all spinal fusion surgeries," says Dr. Light.

Over 150,000 spinal fusions are performed in the U.S. each year to treat injuries or degenerative disease. Dr. Light says that is way too many. He says that the basic principal used in spinal fusions performed on the neck or back vertebrae hasn't changed since the 1890's. More importantly, the actual results of spinal fusion hasn't improved in 60 years, he says.

The doctor has x-rays showing the woman's neck fused and how it now appears, after the fusion reversal procedure. She now shows greatly improved range of movement than was possible with the fusion in place.

Dr. Light, who is often referred to as "the doctor of last resort" for patients with back problems and injuries says that fusions are appropriate in many cases, especially where no other treatment will help. "However, there are now alternatives that can help a person regain full movement and mobility, rather than having their vertebrae "frozen", which can lead to significant side effects including pain and increased stress to adjacent vertebrae," says Dr. Light. "In some cases the fusion will heal in the wrong position, causing a tilting of the spine."

Dr. Light believes that many more physicians will soon consider alternatives to spinal fusion in order to give patients an improved quality of life.

For more information, visit www.drkennethlight.com or call 425.673.4500