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Mastectomy Procedure Overview What is a mastectomy? A mastectomy is a surgical procedure in which all or a portion of a breast is removed as a part of a treatment plan for breast cancer. In some cases, mastectomy is performed prophylactically (to prevent cancer from occurring) in women with a high risk for developing breast cancer. Surgical treatment for breast cancer is generally divided into two categories: breast-conserving therapy (BCT) or mastectomy. BCT involves removing the least possible amount ...

Breast Reduction in Men With Gynecomastia What is gynecomastia? Gynecomastia is a condition in which the male's breast tissue enlarges. Gynecomastia literally means "woman breast." This increase in tissue usually occurs at times when the male is having hormonal changes, such as during infancy, adolescence, and old age. What causes gynecomastia? This is usually a benign (non-cancerous) condition that may be caused by many different hormonal changes, or the cause may be unknown. The changes in hormones us...

Collagen / Fat Injectable Fillers What is soft tissue augmentation? Collagen/fat injectable fillers, also called soft-tissue augmentation, is a cosmetic plastic surgery procedure performed to correct wrinkles, depressions in the skin, and/or scarring. The procedure involves injecting a substance (collagen and/or fat) into the skin in order to plump or fill-up the area being treated. The result of the procedure is usually not permanent and touch-up injections may be needed every three to 12 months. For s...

Congenital Hand Deformities What are congenital hand deformities? Congenital anomalies are deformities that are present at birth. Any type of deformity in a newborn infant can become a challenge for the child as he/she grows. Hand deformities can be particularly disabling as the child learns to interact with the environment through the use of his/her hands. The degree of deformity varies from a minor deformity, such as a digital disproportion, to a severe deformity, such as total absence of a bone. Earl...

Facelift What is a facelift? Rhytidectomy, a surgical procedure commonly known as a facelift, involves the removal of excess facial fat, the tightening of facial muscles, and the stretching of facial skin to approximate a smoother, firmer facial appearance. The procedure takes place on either the face, neck, or both. Depending on the area of the face or neck where the "lift" is to take place, the surgeon will separate the skin from the fat and muscle. The fat is then removed and the skin is pulled back ...

Forehead Lift What is a forehead lift? A forehead lift is the surgical removal of excess fat and skin, as well as a tightening of the muscles in the forehead area. It can correct sagging brows or deep furrows between the eyes. It is often done in conjunction with a facelift, in order to create a smoother facial appearance overall. There are two types of surgical techniques available for a forehead lift, including the classic forehead lift and the endoscopic forehead lift: classic forehead lift In the cl...

Glossary - Plastic Surgery | A | | B | | C | | D | | E | | F | | G | | H | | I | | J | | K | | L | | M | | N | | O | | P | | Q | | R | | S | | T | | U | | V | | W | | X | | Y | | Z | A [return to top] abdominoplasty (Also called tummy tuck.) - a procedure that minimizes the abdominal area. In abdominoplasty, the surgeon makes a long incision from one side of the hipbone to the other. Excess fat and skin are surgically removed from the middle and lower abdomen and the muscles of the abdomen wall are tigh...

Hair Replacement Surgery What causes hair loss? Hair loss is believed to be primarily caused by a combination of the following: aging change in hormones illness family history of baldness burns trauma However, hair loss is not caused by the following: poor circulation to the scalp vitamin deficiencies dandruff excessive hat-wearing a gene passed on from an individual's maternal grandfather Generally, the earlier hair loss begins, the more severe the baldness will become. What is hair replacement surgery...

Topic Index Preparing for Surgery Overview of Plastic Surgery Reconstructive Plastic Surgery Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Glossary Plastic (derived from the Greek word "plastikos" which means "to mold or shape") surgery is the surgical specialty that deals with the reconstruction of facial and body tissue that requires a reshaping or remolding due to disease, a defect, or disorder. This surgery is conducted in order to approximate a normal appearance or to repair working ability. Different in function from ...

Laser Surgery Overview What is laser surgery? Laser surgery is a type of surgery that uses special light beams instead of instruments for surgical procedures. LASER stands for "Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation." Lasers were first developed in 1960. Newer laser modifications continue to have a large impact on medical and surgical practices. A large part of their impact has been seen in the treatment of various skin lesion and diseases. How does a laser work? The functioning of ...

Liposuction What is liposuction? Liposuction is a procedure that removes excess fat through a suctioning process. Although it is not a substitute for weight loss, it is a way of changing the body's shape and contour. Liposuction can be used to remove excess fat that does not respond to exercise and dieting, including fat around the thighs, stomach, upper arms, buttocks, or the waistline. The Food and Drug Administration has not approved the use of the procedure on the neck or face. In 2008, liposuction ...

Management After Surgery What can I expect after hand surgery? Recovery after hand surgery depends greatly on the type of surgery that was performed and the underlying cause of the hand condition. Sometimes, repeat surgeries are needed. The hand is an intricate part of our lives and is very sensitive. Mild to severe pain may be expected after many types of hand surgeries. Pain medications may be given to help alleviate the discomfort. The following are some of the other possible outcomes that you may be...

Nasal Surgery What is nasal surgery? Nasal surgery includes any surgery performed on the outside or inside of the nose. A common type of reconstructive and cosmetic surgery, nasal surgery may be performed to accomplish the following: improve breathing correct congenital or acquired deformities change size or shape of nose (cosmetic) repair nasal injuries What are the different types of nasal surgery? The following are some of the different types of nasal surgery: septoplasty Septoplasty is the surgical ...

Nose Reshaping What is nose reshaping? Cosmetic nose reshaping is also known as rhinoplasty. The procedure can reduce or increase the size of the nose, narrow the span of the nostrils, change the angle between the nose and upper lip, and/or change the tip or bridge of the nose. It can also correct some breathing problems. Rhinoplasty involves the resculpting of the bone and cartilage. When operating on the nose, the surgeon can either work from within the nose by making an incision inside the nose, or w...

Online Resources - Plastic Surgery This Web was compiled from a variety of sources including the online resources listed below, but is not intended to substitute or replace the professional medical advice you receive from your physician. The content provided here is for informational purposes only, and was not designed to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Please consult your physician with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition. This page contains links to other Wor...

Overview of Plastic Surgery What is plastic surgery? It is a popular misconception that the word plastic in plastic surgery means artificial . Rather, the word is derived from the ancient Greek word plastikos , which means "to mold or give form." Plastic surgery is a surgical specialty involved with the reconstruction of facial and body tissue defects due to illness, trauma, or birth disorders. Plastic surgery restores and improves function, as well as appearance. It can involve surgery on any portion o...

Plastic Surgery Statistics Consider the following statistics are from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS): The top five cosmetic surgery procedures in 2008 were breast augmentation, nose reshaping, liposuction, eyelid surgery, and tummy tuck. From 2007 to 2008, the number of reconstructive plastic surgery patients has 3 increased percent. Liposuction procedures have decreased 31 percent between 2000 and 2008. Breast augmentation surgery increased 45 percent between 2000 and 2008. Minimally-i...

Plastic Surgery Techniques Surgical techniques used in plastic surgery: There are many different techniques used to perform cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery procedures, including the following: endoscopic surgery Endoscopic surgery is performed with an endoscope, a tubular probe that has a tiny camera and a bright light, which is inserted into a small incision. Images from the camera are transmitted back to a screen, which the surgeon watches while manipulating the endoscope inside the body. ...

Preparing for Surgery Preparing for surgery: As with any type of surgery, there are certain preparations that need to take place. Determining what preparations are necessary will depend on what type of surgery that will be performed and the type of anesthesia that will be administered. The following are considerations for you to discuss with your physician/surgeon prior to your procedure: Ask the surgeon to explain the benefits, risks, and expectations of the procedure. Discuss what type of anesthesia w...

Reconstructive Plastic Surgery There are many different reconstructive plastic surgery procedures that require the clinical and surgical expertise of a plastic surgeon. Listed in the directory below are some, for which we have provided a brief overview. Reconstructive Plastic Surgery Overview Nasal Surgery (Septoplasty) Breast Reconstruction Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate Craniosynostosis Hand Surgery Overview of Hand Surgery Anatomy of the Hand Diagnosing Hand Conditions Type of Hand Conditions Carpal Tunn...

Reconstructive Plastic Surgery Overview What is reconstructive plastic surgery? Reconstructive plastic surgery is performed to correct facial and body abnormalities caused by birth defects, trauma, disease, or aging. About 4.9 million reconstructive plastic surgeries are performed each year in the US. Usually, the goal of reconstructive plastic surgery is to improve body function. However, reconstructive plastic surgery may also be performed to create a more normal appearance and improve self-esteem (th...

Rheumatoid Arthritis What is rheumatoid arthritis? Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disease that causes inflammation of the joints. The inflammation can become so severe that the function and appearance of the hands, as well as other parts of the body, can become affected. In the hand, rheumatoid arthritis may cause deformities in the joints of the fingers, making it difficult to move the fingers. Lumps, known as rheumatoid nodules, may form over small joints in the hands and the wrist. Juvenile rheuma...

Scar Revision What is a scar? A scar is the body's natural way of healing and replacing lost or damaged skin. A scar is usually composed of fibrous tissue. Scars may be formed for many different reasons, including as a result of infections, surgery, injuries, or inflammation of tissue. Scars may appear anywhere on the body, and the composition of a scar may vary - appearing flat, lumpy, sunken, or colored. It may be painful or itchy. The final look of a scar depends of many factors, including the skin t...

Topic Index - Plastic Surgery Plastic Surgery Home Preparing for Surgery Overview of Plastic Surgery Statistics Plastic Surgery Techniques Laser Surgery Overview Types of Skin Conditions Reconstructive Plastic Surgery Reconstructive Plastic Surgery Overview Nasal Surgery Breast Reconstruction Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate Craniosynostosis (Craniofacial Anomaly) Hand Surgery Overview of Hand Surgery Anatomy of the Hand Diagnosing Hand Conditions Type of Hand Conditions Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Congenital Hand...

Types of Skin Conditions Laser surgery for skin conditions: There are many different types of lesions and skin conditions that can be treated with laser surgery. Your physician will decide if you are a candidate for the particular surgery. The following is a brief overview of some of the skin conditions that can be treated with laser surgery: port-wine stains Port-wine stains are congenital (present at birth) capillary malformations. The color of this birthmark is usually pink, red, or purple. About 0.3...

Vein Removal What are spider veins? Spider veins, commonly found on the face and legs, are caused by the dilation of a small group of blood vessels near the skin's surface. They often look like red or purple sunbursts or web patterns and are more common in women. What are varicose veins? Varicose veins are caused by swollen or enlarged blood vessels. The blood vessels have enlarged due to a weakening in the vein's wall or valves. Located deeper in the skin than spider veins, they may appear raised and o...

Breast Augmentation What is breast enlargement surgery? Breast augmentation, or augmentation mammaplasty, is a procedure to reshape the breast in order to make it larger. The procedure can also be performed to reconstruct the breast following breast surgery. Possible complications associated with breast augmentation surgery: Possible complications associated with breast augmentation surgery may include, but are not limited to, the following: infection Infection is most common within a week after surgery...

Chin, Cheek, or Jaw Reshaping / Facial Implants What is chin, cheek, or jaw reshaping? Cosmetic plastic surgery to change the shape of the chin, cheek, or jaw may be performed. This procedure is typically done to enhance certain facial features, or to bring a certain aspect of the face into proportion with the rest of the face. For the reshaping of the chin, cheek, or jaw, the surgeon may insert an implant into the area to redefine its appearance. Possible complications associated with facial implants: ...

Cosmetic Plastic Surgery There are many different cosmetic plastic surgery procedures that require the clinical and surgical expertise of a plastic surgeon. Listed in the directory below are some (listed by their common name), for which we have provided a brief overview. Overview of Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Breast Augmentation Breast Reduction in Men With Gynecomastia Chemical Peel Chin, Cheek, or Jaw Reshaping / Facial Implants Collagen / Fat Injectable Fillers Dermabrasion / Dermaplaning Ear Pinning E...

Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Overview What is cosmetic plastic surgery? Cosmetic plastic surgery is performed in order to change one's appearance. For some, it may mean redesigning the body's contour and shape, the elimination of wrinkles, or eliminating balding areas. Others may choose varicose vein treatment or breast augmentation. There are a number of cosmetic surgery procedures that men and women can choose from in order to create an image that makes them feel more confident and comfortable with their ...

Craniosynostosis (Craniofacial Anomaly) What is craniosynostosis? The normal skull consists of several plates of bone that are separated by sutures. The sutures (fibrous joints) are found between the bony plates in the head. As the infant grows and develops, the sutures close, forming a solid piece of bone, called the skull. Craniosynostosis is a condition in which the sutures close too early, causing problems with normal brain and skull growth. Premature closure of the sutures may also cause the pressu...

Dermabrasion / Dermaplaning What is dermabrasion? Similar to a chemical peel, dermabrasion is a procedure that removes fine wrinkles and/or minimizes scars on the skin. The difference between a chemical peel and dermabrasion, however, is the method used. Dermabrasion involves the surgeon utilizing a high speed rotating brush to remove the top layer of skin. The size and depth of the scars, as well as the degree of wrinkling, determine the appropriate level of skin that will be surgically sloughed. Possi...

Ear Pinning What is ear pinning? Ear surgery, or otoplasty, is a type of cosmetic plastic surgery procedure aimed at setting prominent ears closer to the head, or reducing the size of larger ears. However, there are other ear problems that can be helped with surgery, including the following: lop ear - when the tip of the ear folds down and forward. cupped ear - a very small ear. shell ear - when the curve in the outer rim, as well as the natural folds and creases, are missing. large or stretched earlobe...

Eyelid Lift What is eyelid surgery? The medical term for an eyelid lift is blepharoplasty. This procedure can remove puffiness or bags under the eyes. It can also correct droopy eyelids. In this procedure, the physician surgically removes excess fat, muscle, and skin from both the upper and lower eyelids to redefine the shape of the eye. Possible complications associated with eyelid surgery: Possible complications associated with eyelid surgery may include, but are not limited to, the following: tempora...

Tummy Tuck What is a tummy tuck? Abdominoplasty, or "tummy tuck" as it is commonly known, is a procedure that minimizes the abdominal area. With this procedure, the surgeon makes a long incision from one side of the hipbone to the other. Excess fat and skin are surgically removed from the middle and lower abdomen, and the muscles of the abdomen wall are tightened. A less complex procedure is called a "mini tummy tuck," or a partial abdominoplasty. This procedure is ideal for individuals who have fat dep...

Breast Reconstruction What is breast reconstruction surgery? With advances in breast reconstruction surgery, many women undergoing breast removal choose to have their breast(s) rebuilt. Even though medical, surgical, and radiation therapy treatments for breast cancer have increased the number of breast-sparing procedures available, some breast cancer patients may still need a mastectomy - removal of the breast(s). In addition, other women have their breast(s) removed due to other diseases. Breast recons...

Post-Mastectomy There are many considerations a woman needs to take following a mastectomy. Listed in the directory below are some, for which we have provided a brief overview. Breast Reconstruction Lymphedema Following a Mastectomy Post-Mastectomy Prosthesis

Post-Mastectomy Prosthesis What is a prosthesis? There are various types of post-mastectomy and lumpectomy prostheses, also called breast forms. Manufacturers make a wide selection of types, shapes, sizes, and colors. The type of prosthesis required is determined by the amount of breast tissue that is removed. A prosthesis can be worn against the skin, inside the pocket of a mastectomy bra, or attached to the chest wall. Prosthetic devices are designed to look feminine while ensuring comfort. What are t...

Using a Surgeon's Tools to Erase the Years It's called plastic surgery, but there's no plastic involved. In this case, "plastic" refers to the ability of the surgeon to reshape the skin, the face, or other body parts. With advances in technique and an aging population, plastic surgery is more popular than ever. Plastic surgery is divided into cosmetic procedures, or those done strictly for "looks," and reconstructive procedures, or those done after an injury or illness affects structure or skin. The pro...

Plastic Surgery Is Up Among Youths In 2008, doctors performed nearly 219,000 cosmetic surgeries on those between the ages of 13-19, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). Those elective surgeries included: Rhinoplasty (nose reshaping) for more than 38,000 Otoplasty (ear surgery) for more than 8,000 Breast augmentations for nearly 9,000 patients aged 18-19 Breast reduction for more than 5,000 patients aged 13-19 "Teens tend to have plastic surgery to fit in with peers - to look sim...