Recent advances in cosmetic surgery have brought a variety of minimally-invasive options that can refresh and rejuvenate with very little downtime.
Dubbed "lunchtime procedures," they're relatively quick and easy, and patients are very pleased with the results, according to Dr. Lyle Leipziger, chief of plastic surgery at North Shore University Hospital and Long Island Jewish Medical Center.
"Simple and quick procedures done right in the doctor's office are enormously popular," Dr. Leipziger says. According to the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the number of nonsurgical cosmetic procedures jumped 51 percent from the previous year. Botox is the most requested, with more than 2.8 million Botox injections administered in 2004, according to the Society. Botox can eliminate forehead furrows and frown lines between the eyebrows, as well as crows feet around the eyes. It usually lasts three to six months.
Restylane is one of the newest and most effective injectable fillers, according to Dr. Leipziger. Restoring volume and fullness to the skin, it is generally used to fill moderate lines and depressions around the lower cheeks, chin, nose and lips. Restylane lasts about
six months.
"Botox and Restylane can certainly enhance one's appearance," Dr. Leipziger says. Many of his patients have made the nonsurgical wrinkle-fighting treatments part of their beauty regimen. "Along with good skin care, continued Botox and Restylane treatments keep patients looking younger," he says. One such patient, who sees him every four to six months, explained, "I want to look young, and Botox makes you feel great." The 39-year-old mother of three said it works wonders in eradicating frown lines that make her look tired and angry. With the numbing cream Dr. Leipziger applies prior to treatment, she said the injection feels like a little pinch.
The trend to have nonsurgical cosmetic procedures at a younger age is being carried over to surgical procedures, as well. "People in their thirties and forties are coming in not only for quick procedures, but for eyelid surgery, as well" says Dr. Leipziger. The first signs of aging are often visible in the eye area, making people look tired, worried or sad. Eyelid surgery, or even a browlift, can make a dramatic difference.
Patients in their mid to late forties are also having mini-facelifts, with fewer and smaller incisions. "Cosmetic surgery performed by a highly qualified plastic surgeon can dramatically improve one's appearance. The goal is to make the patient look better, more youthful and more refreshed. It should not make someone look like a different person," says Dr. Leipziger.
Many women -- and men -- opt for cosmetic surgery because they want to look as young as they feel. Others believe it will give them a competitive edge in the workplace.
Dr. Leipziger advises anyone considering cosmetic surgery to make sure the physician is Board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Getting recommendations from friends, finding a plastic surgeon who takes the time to listen carefully and answer questions, and checking credentials can help ensure safety and achieve desired results. For a free checklist on important factors to consider before having cosmetic surgery, call Dr. Leipziger's office: 516-465-8787.