Let's Learn About Liposuction. What it Can and Can't Do For You.

Let's Learn About Liposuction. What it Can and Can't Do For You.

If you’re looking to achieve a slimmer, more toned and shapely appearance, you may have already done some research about the benefits of liposuction. Considered the gold standard of body-sculpting techniques, it is one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures – and with good reason. Small incisions are made on targeted areas such as the hips, thighs, back, and abdomen, among other areas, and fat is artfully suctioned away to create sexy contours and a smoother overall look. Despite the head-turning results that can be made with liposuction, Greater New Jersey men and women still remain unsure about what can – and cannot – be accomplished with this versatile surgery. The board-certified plastic surgeons at The Peer Group in Florham Park, NJ are dedicated to educating patients about how it can work to improve their physiques.

Liposuction can …

Improve problem areas.

When it comes to shedding undesired pounds, there is no substitute for the proven effects of maintaining a healthy diet and following a regular exercise regimen. However, it is next to impossible to determine from where on the body that weight will be eliminated. Maybe you had hoped to smooth your stomach, but instead shed inches from your hips. With liposuction, specific areas are identified, and fat cells are broken down manually before being removed to create the curves and contours exactly where they wanted. The transformative results may be noticeable soon after surgery.

Boost volume.

Have you always dreamed of having a bootylicious backside or fabulously full breasts? With liposuction, the board-certified plastic surgeons at The Peer Group in New Jersey can make your dream a reality. Fat cells that are removed from an area of the body can be purified and transferred (or grafted) into another area that is lacking the desired volume. This provides Greater New Jersey patients the bonus of being able to address one or more cosmetic concerns at the same time.

Target stubborn fat.

Are you done with your double chin? Have you had it with a protruding tummy? Are you sick of the saddlebags on your thighs? Liposuction can be used to effectively treat areas where fat tends to accumulate and hang on despite the efforts of diet and exercise. This type of versatility is one of the many reasons it has become such a popular body-sculpting tool. Fat on the knees, calves, and buttocks can be targeted. The dreaded appearance of so-called bat wings on the upper arms can be improved. By removing excess fat on the neck, even the face can be made to look slimmer.

Spot reduce.

After having lost a substantial amount of weight, most Greater New Jersey patients would agree that there are few things are more frustrating than noticing a residual roll of fat here or a leftover bump there. In general, liposuction can be employed to reduce pockets of fat that remain as well as better shape these areas so men and women can feel confident about the results of their weight loss and trimmer figure. Similarly, areas that are difficult to notoriously to shape up, such as the knees and the neck, can be improved with liposuction.

Create sculpted curves.

Sexy curves never go out of style. Besides removing fat, liposuction works to sculpt the subtle or dramatic contours that patients in Greater New Jersey desire. If you want to maintain volume in your buttocks and thighs, for example, the New Jersey plastic surgeons at The Peer Group can slim your hips and abdomen areas so you achieve a classic hourglass figure. They work closely with patients to give provide custom results with little scarring since most liposuction procedures require only small incisions.

Versatile liposuction can be used effectively to produce long-lasting, remarkable enhancements and improvements from head to toe. For most patients, the surgery does much to bolster confidence in their appearance. However, men and women need to set realistic expectations for the outcome of their procedure and remover that liposuction does have some limitations.

Liposuction cannot …

Serve as a substitute for diet and exercise.

Even though liposuction creates contours and slims the appearance by removing fat, it is important that patients not think of it as a weight-loss procedure. Nor should it take the place of following a healthy diet and exercising regularly. In fact, the board-certified plastic surgeons at The Peer Group in Florham Park, NJ recommend that patients be at or near their ideal weight before getting liposuction so that they may better suited to achieve and maintain the excellent results that can be achieved.

Improve the appearance of your skin.

If you’re counting on liposuction to tighten up the skin on stomach following the loss of significant pounds or improve the appearance of stretch marks following pregnancy, you likely will need to reconsider. Neither of these can be improved with liposuction since the procedure only targets underlying fat cells. Once those are removed, your sagging, stretched skin will remain. Other plastic surgery procedures, such as a thigh lift, tummy tuck, or arm lift, can be used to address skin concerns. Also, be advised that liposuction does not eliminate the skin dimpling effect that is caused by cellulite.

Assist you in losing weight.

With liposuction, it is possible to safely, quickly, and successful ditch fat and improve the shape of your body. However, the surgery will not work to help Greater New Jersey patients lose significant amounts of weight. Rather, it is best suited for sculpting and contouring specified areas to achieve a slimmer, more toned appearance. On average, only about one to 10 pounds of fat is removed during most lipo procedures that are performed strictly for cosmetic purposes.

Prevent you from gaining weight.

It may be surprising to learn that following adolescence, the body ceases to produce new fat cells. As the years march on, those cells can either fill up or deflate like a balloon as weight is gained or pounds are shed. Liposuction targets unwanted fat cells and removes them from areas that are treated. Once they’ve been eliminated, the cells do not regrow. Although it is still possible to gain weight, fat does not accumulate in areas that have undergone liposuction.

Now that you know what is possible with versatile liposuction, New Jersey men and women should schedule an appointment with the board-certified plastic surgeons at The Peer Group in Florham Park, NJ. They are dedicated to educating patients about this truly transformative procedure.


4 Things You Should Know Before Getting Eyelid Surgery

4 Things You Should Know Before Getting Eyelid Surgery

As men and women get age, their eyes begin to show telltale signs of growing older. Baggy lower eyelids, droopy or sagging upper eyelids -- they can be a cosmetic or even a medical issue. According to a report by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, eyelid surgery, or blepharoplasty, was the fourth most common cosmetic procedure performed in 2018.

The board-certified plastic surgeons at The Peer Group in Florham Park, NJ, offer eyelid surgery to Greater New Jersey area men and women. Eyelid surgery for New Jersey patients provides men and women with a new outlook on their facial appearance and also provides dramatic results. The surgical experts at The Peer Group in New Jersey share four helpful facts about eyelid surgery to better inform you about what it can do from both a cosmetic and medical perspective and how they can help open your eyes to this rejuvenating procedure.

The popularity of eyelid surgery

Over the past few years, eyelid surgery has risen in popularity. Both women and men in Greater New Jersey are turning eyelid surgery for help looking more awake or correcting droopy skin around their eyes. This cosmetic procedure can rejuvenate a person’s appearance by removing excess skin and tightening up the eye area to reveal a more youthful look. In data released by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, in 2018, over 206,000 eyelid surgery procedures were performed.

From a medical standpoint, as we age, many older patients suffer from drooping eyelids, which can impede their vision. Severely saggy skin around the eyes can reduce a patient’s side, or peripheral vision -- especially if it is impacting the upper and outer parts of their field of vision. Blepharoplasty can reduce or eliminate these types of vision problems and make eyes appear more alert, awake, and even younger.

Eyelid lift options

As men and women age, our bodies make less collagen, which causes the skin to lose elasticity. Collagen is the protein that keeps skin looking plump and youthful, and when it starts to diminish, then so does the texture of our skin. Eyelid skin is predisposed to already being thin, and as we age, the muscles around the eyes also weaken. The combination of both of these factors lead the eye area to be one of the first areas to change aesthetically as we get older. Eyelid surgery can be customized to what each patient needs, whether it is for the upper eyelid, the lower eyelid, or both. During a consultation with the board-certified plastic surgeons at The Peer Group about eyelid surgery, Greater New Jersey men and women can learn about the different options and what would be a good fit for them.

Types of eyelid surgery

Upper eyelid surgery: This procedure focuses on the upper eyelid area. It is popular among elderly patients or those genetically born with droopy eyelids to improve their vision sightline. This procedure will provide a more rounded, open, youthful appearance to a patient’s eye while restoring any medical function if needed.

Lower eyelid surgery: This procedure focuses on the lower eyelid area. The primary goal of this surgical procedure is to reduce the appearance of “bags” under the eyes, eliminate wrinkles or loose skin in the lower eyelid area.

Whether you want to improve the function of your eyes or their appearance, eyelid surgery for New Jersey area men and women can give your eyes a fresh new look.

Is eyelid surgery right for you?

Your eyes are a significant part of your facial features. When they appear tired or droopy in appearance, then eyelid surgery may be the right solution. In some cases, it might be covered by insurance if it can restore medical function to the eyes from upper eyelids that are impeding a patient’s vision. Even lower eyelid surgery can be considered a medical or functional blepharoplasty when eyeglasses are not able to be worn due to excessive puffiness and surgical intervention is the only solution.

Be patient for the dramatic results

Eyelid surgery can take years off a patient’s appearance. Tightening drooping and sagging eyelid skin and eliminating lower eyelid puffiness can make both women and men in the Greater New Jersey area look more “awake” and rejuvenated. It can be one of the most dramatic facial cosmetic procedures, giving patients immediate satisfaction -- especially for individuals who require eyelid surgery for a medical need to improve their vision. However, individuals should be patient while waiting for their final results. It can take a few months for patients to be able to enjoy their new look fully. The eye area is delicate, so each week, the eyelids will gradually improve. Before long, everyone will be asking, “why do you look so refreshed?”.

The board-certified plastic surgeons at The Peer Group in Florham Park, NJ, can help eliminate those signs of aging in your eyes, making you look younger and even more awake. Your eyes play an essential part in your overall appearance, so rejuvenating them with eyelid surgery can have a significant impact on how you feel and look. If you are interested in eyelid surgery, then we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of the skilled plastic surgeons at The Peer Group today.


I Didn't Know That! Surprising Facts About Liposuction

I Didn't Know That! Surprising Facts About Liposuction

Stubborn fat can be targeted with liposuction.

There is no substitute for the effects that can be produced by consuming a healthy diet and exercising regularly, especially when it comes to ditching undesired pounds. However, there’s no good way to determine exactly which areas will shed that weight. For example, you may want to slim your thighs, but end up shedding inches from your waistline. By manually breaking down and suctioning fat cells from targeted areas, liposuction can create a smoother, more contoured appearance in precisely the areas where it is desired.

Liposuction is not intended to address obesity.

While it is possible to lose pounds with liposuction, it should not be viewed by Greater New Jersey women and men as weight loss surgery. It works best for removing deposits of fat that have not responded well to the efforts of diet and exercise, as well as for sculpting desired contours in certain areas of the body. In most cases, when performed for cosmetic purposes, only small quantities of fat are removed during most liposuction procedures. In general, between one and 10 pounds of fat may be suctioned out. The board-certified plastic surgeons at The Peer Group recommend that New Jersey area patients be at or near their ideal body weight before undergoing a liposuction procedure.

Unwanted fat can be eliminated.

Are you tired of having a tummy pooch? Sick of sporting saddlebags on your thighs? Does your double chin bring you down? These and other bothersome areas of fat can be improved with liposuction. Localized fat in areas that may otherwise be tough to target, such as the calves, upper arms, and knees, also can be removed. Even the face can be made to look slimmer when excess neck fat is eliminated. This type of versatility has helped boost the popularity of liposuction among patients in New Jersey and around the world.

Lipo will not prevent you from gaining weight.

After adolescence, the body stops producing new fat cells. In later years, those cells will either fill up or deflate like a balloon as weight is gained or lost. Once fat cells are removed from a specific area of the body with liposuction, they do not return. Although it is possible for cells surrounding the treated area to increase when weight is gained, fat should not accumulate in areas where liposuction was performed.

Fat can be transferred to where it is needed.

Do you dream of having a rounder rear end or fuller breasts? When unwanted fat is removed from an area of the body, the cells can be purified and transferred (or grafted) into other areas of the body that lack volume. This offers patients at The Peer Group in Florham Park, NJ an opportunity to address multiple cosmetic issues during a single liposuction procedure.

Liposuction will not improve stretch marks or scars.

If you’re counting on liposuction to tighten excess skin on your stomach or reduce the visibility of stretch marks resulting from pregnancy, you will need to reconsider. These conditions cannot be improved with liposuction. The same goes for the dimpled appearance on the skin that is caused by cellulite. This is because liposuction targets underlying fat cells. Once these are removed, the skin will still appear saggy. However, the experienced, board-certified plastic surgeons at The Peer Group can recommend other cosmetic procedures for men and women in the Greater New Jersey area that are designed to tighten the skin and make stretch marks less visible.

Shapely curves can be sculpted.

Besides reducing areas of unwanted fat, liposuction is effective for creating the sexy contours that are desired by patients in Greater New Jersey. The procedure is highly customizable. For example, those who want to maintain the voluptuous, hourglass shape of their hips, thighs, and buttocks may do so while simultaneously smoothing their stomach for a slimmer look. The plastic surgeons at The Peer Group work closely with patients to provide the results they want with minimal scarring since most liposuction procedures require only small incisions.

The appearance of problem areas can be improved.

After successfully losing a moderate amount of weight, it can be frustrating to notice a residual roll or other small areas of leftover fat on the body. For most patients, liposuction can be employed to spot-reduce bothersome areas, which also will be smoothed in the process to achieve a better shape. This may help men and women feel proud about their weight loss as well as more comfortable showing off their new, trimmer figure.

Is liposuction right for you?

Now that you know more about the history of liposuction, as well as the many improvements to your physique that can be accomplished with this versatile surgery, you may feel better prepared to move forward with scheduling a liposuction procedure for yourself. You are encouraged to contact the board-certified plastic surgeons at The Peer Group in Florham Park, NJ to learn how liposuction may benefit you.


Open or Closed? Which Rhinoplasty Procedure is Right For Me?

Open or Closed? Which Rhinoplasty Procedure is Right For Me?

The nose is the most prominent feature of the face. As such, it is not unusual for men and women to want to change aspects of their appearance. Maybe the tip points a little too far down or the bridge is a bit too wide. If your nostrils flare out, you may wish to correct that. These and numerous other features can be addressed with rhinoplasty. Also known as nose-shaping surgery, this complex procedure is used to correct and improve several cosmetic and medical conditions associated with nasal and breathing issues.

The board-certified plastic surgeons at The Peer Group in Florham Park, NJ are highly skilled at performing rhinoplasty procedures and creating excellent outcomes. For patients considering this transformative procedure, they detail the similarities and differences between open and closed rhinoplasties and explain which option may be best suited for patients in the Greater New Jersey area.

Why opt for rhinoplasty?

Aesthetic issues

In an ideal world, the appearance of the nose will complement the face, not distract from it. However, when Greater New Jersey patients are unhappy with certain features of their nose, it can cause confidence in their appearance to falter. After all, a nose may look great on one face but may not be flattering on another. Rhinoplasty can be employed to address cosmetic concerns including:

  • the shape, width, and angle of the nose

  • nasal tips that are too pointed, flat, or bulbous

  • bumps, depressions, or an uneven bridge

  • unusually large nostrils can be narrowed to look more proportionate

Breathing issues/nasal deformities

Similarly, rhinoplasty can be performed to improve breathing issues as well as nasal deformities such as a deviated septum. With this common condition, the nasal septum that separates the left and right airways is crooked. This can cause one of the nasal passages to close and make breathing difficult.

Damage from an accident/injury

Damage that results from an accident or injury may also be repaired. When the nose is broken and breathing becomes difficult, Greater New Jersey patients must see a board-certified plastic surgeon who is experienced in surgeries addressing the nose as soon as possible.

Sleep apnea and other nasal issues

Even sleep apnea can be addressed with rhinoplasty. This much-maligned condition is marked by excessive snoring and can ultimately have serious health consequences. Meanwhile, nasal polyps, a cleft palate or lip, and even chronic sinus infections can also be corrected. In most cases, rhinoplasty works to restore proper nasal function and provide patients the relief they need.

Rhinoplasty techniques

There are two types of rhinoplasty techniques, open and closed. Many patients are unaware of the differences between these procedures and what can be accomplished.

  • With open rhinoplasty, an incision is made on the skin between the nostrils and inside the nostrils.

  • With a closed rhinoplasty, incisions are made inside the nostrils.

The terms “open” and “closed” refer to the methods by which the plastic surgeons at The Peer Group access the nose.

It may be surprising to learn that nearly any change to the appearance of the outside of the nose corresponds to alterations that are made inside the nose. As a result, the surgical technique that is used, along with the structure of the nose, greatly influence the outcome of your rhinoplasty.

What is open rhinoplasty?

During an open rhinoplasty, the surgeon makes a small incision on the tissue at the base of the outside of the nose that separates the nostrils. This area is called the columella. The skin is raised to provide easier access to the bones, tissue, and cartilage inside the nose during surgery. With the interior structure of the nose revealed, the surgeon has optimal access to the area that will be altered. This usually allows him or her to operate in a more delicate manner.

It often is easier to stabilize the nose following an open rhinoplasty versus a closed procedure. For these and other reasons, most plastic surgeons prefer the open rhinoplasty technique, which usually results in minimal visible scarring. The biggest drawbacks of open rhinoplasty are that the procedure typically is longer and more invasive than closed rhinoplasty. Recovery times also may be a bit lengthier.

What is closed rhinoplasty?

The earliest method of nose surgery to be performed, closed rhinoplasty is still employed by a good many plastic surgeons in the Greater New Jersey area. With this technique, small incisions are created inside the nostrils so that the surgeon can make changes without having to lift the nasal skin. Considered less invasive and usually shorter in duration than an open rhinoplasty procedure, closed rhinoplasty is best suited to address features that are more easily corrected, especially when the tip of the nose is well-shaped.

Because the incisions are located inside the nose, patients will have no visible scars and may experience less swelling as well as a shorter recovery period following surgery. The greatest downside to closed rhinoplasty is that is the incisions may cause the nasal structure to weaken, which can compromise its shape in the future. Also, given the limited access that it allows plastic surgeons to cartilage and tissue, usually only small, less delicate changes can be made.

Which rhinoplasty procedure should you choose?

While open and closed rhinoplasties are performed differently, one technique is not necessarily better than the other. With a closed procedure, the recovery period may be faster. Also, Greater New Jersey patients will not have any noticeable scars. However, with the nasal skin lifted, the changes made as part of an open rhinoplasty procedure can be more precise. This is important especially when large, complex alterations are required.

The board-certified plastic surgeons at The Peer Group in Florham Park, NJ work closely with patients to determine which rhinoplasty procedure will provide them with the best results. Your nose will be evaluated and, depending on the changes that you desire as well as your expectations for the outcome of the surgery, they can confidently recommend the technique that will meet your needs.

 

Now that you are more informed about open and closed rhinoplasties, we invite you to contact the New Jersey office of The Peer Group and schedule a consultation with one of our skilled, board-certified plastic surgeons so that your journey toward looking and feeling can get underway.


Noninvasive Liposuction is Here With SculpSure

Noninvasive Liposuction is Here With SculpSure™

Does anyone, not like the idea of melting fat away to reveal a more sculpted body? The answer is no! People everywhere are always on the lookout for the latest and greatest body contouring procedures available in today’s ever-evolving cosmetic world. It’s a fact, men and women want a more toned, fit-looking appearance, and sometimes diet and exercise just do not do the trick. How does a noninvasive, no surgery required, and no downtime form of liposuction sound? SculpSure™ is an FDA cleared, a non-surgical laser treatment that can safely target and break down stubborn fat cells to give you a slimmer appearance. If countless hours in the gym and eating healthy just aren’t effective, then the option of reshaping your body without surgery is the new way to get the physique you have always wanted.

The board-certified plastic surgeons at The Peer Group in Florham Park, NJ, offer this innovative, modern cosmetic technique for their patients in the Greater New Jersey area. Without the need for invasive surgery and little to no downtime, SculpSure™ is becoming a well-known body contouring secret. Read below for more information about SculpSure™ and how it can transform your body.

Is liposuction out?

Liposuction is still one of the most popular cosmetic procedures today. However, noninvasive fat reduction methods are also on the rise, giving individuals who need that extra little bit of help a real option for attaining their aesthetic goals without the need for surgery.

For many New Jersey-area patients, traditional liposuction may still be the best choice when it comes to removing stubborn excess fat from certain areas of the body that are resistant to diet and exercise. Men and women who need more significant areas of fat removed will have greater success with the conventional method. Liposuction can effectively remove between 6-8 pounds of unwanted fat in one procedure. However, liposuction is considered a surgical procedure, and there is associated downtime along with accompanied swelling and mild bruising. Individuals who need less body contouring help and don’t have the time for surgery and recovery can turn to nonsurgical body contouring techniques like SculpSure™ to further sculpt and tone up certain areas.

SculpSure™ explained

The board-certified plastic surgeons at The Peer Group offer SculpSure™ as an alternative option to traditional liposuction for their Greater New Jersey area patients. This state-of-the-art noninvasive laser treatment is capable of reducing up to 24% of fat cells within targeted areas. Unwanted fat cells are destroyed in up to four focused regions in one single session. Our board-certified plastic surgeons use a hyperthermic laser whereby heat is carefully produced and monitored to eliminate fat cells as it is applied to the treatment areas. The hyperthermic laser energy heats the fat cells and breaks them down. The applicator is safe to use for all skin types and will not harm underlying layers of skin. Patients remain comfortable during the 25-minute procedure.

A significant advantage of this procedure is that it includes no downtime, no scarring, and no discomfort. The broken-down fat cells are naturally processed and released by the body in the weeks following treatment, leaving patients looking more sculpted and fit

The best areas to treat with SculpSure™

Men and women in the greater New Jersey area are curious about this innovative, non-invasive fat lipolysis treatment. People who are best suited for SculpSure™ have a BMI of 30 or less. It is important to note that SculpSure™ is not a substitute for weight loss.

The best areas to target for ideal sculpting with SculpSure™ are:

  • Stomach
  • Hips
  • Flanks
  • Thighs
  • Buttocks
  • Upper arms
  • Knees

What does a SculpSure™ treatment feel like?
During treatment, the laser heats up but the attached cooling element helps to keep patients feeling comfortable. The varying degrees of heat coupled with the cool sensation leaves men and women feeling alternating sensations of cool and warm. Some report a “pins and needles” feeling similar to when your foot might fall asleep. However, in the end, this technique is far less uncomfortable than other cosmetic procedures, such as surgically invasive liposuction.

Ideal candidates for SculpSure™

This treatment is designed for those individuals with excess body fat who want a more sculpted body. During your consultation with one of the board-certified plastic surgeons at The Peer Group, a thorough explanation about SculpSure™ and how it works will be given, followed by an assessment. Individuals who are in good shape and have maintained their ideal body weight through diet and exercise but still want a more toned, slimmer look are good candidates for this non-invasive body-contouring procedure. Healthy men and women can eliminate these stubborn areas of fat while getting the body they always wanted.

Amazing results

New Jersey area men and women can expect to see the full effects of their SculpSure™ treatment in about 12 weeks. The destroyed fat is naturally and gradually eliminated through the body, revealing a better-looking body without the need for surgery or unnecessary downtime. Our patients love not only their results but also the lack of interruption in their daily routine.

Patients in New Jersey finally have a fantastic option to obtain the body they have always wanted without surgery or downtime. Long-lasting results are attainable thanks to the latest advancement in non-invasive body contouring, SculpSure™. If your curiosity has been sparked, then the board-certified plastic surgeons at The Peer Group invite you to schedule a consultation. Countless women and men in the New Jersey area are seeing real results thanks to nonsurgical options like SculpSure™ to contour their already healthy bodies.


I'm in My 40s. What is the Best Facelift For Me?

I'm in My 40s. What is the Best Facelift For Me?

For many women and men, their 40s are an ideal time to make significant improvements in their personal and professional lives, as well as to their appearance. In the war against the effects of aging, it may no longer be enough to rely solely on BOTOX and dermal filler injections to achieve and maintain a more youthful look. A more powerful tool - namely, a surgical facelift - may be necessary to win this battle.

Years ago, this tried-and-true procedure was primarily reserved for patients in their 60s and 70s. Thanks to advances in cosmetic surgery, new facelift techniques are giving patients in their 40s a wider variety of options for combating wrinkles, sagging skin, and other telltale signs of aging. The board-certified plastic surgeons at The Peer Group in Florham Park, NJ are leaders in the field and are dedicated to providing patients in Greater New Jersey with remarkable results. Below, they expertly explain the best facelifts for 40-something patients.

Skin changes with age

As we grow older, the body’s production of collagen and elastin plummets. These compose the structure of the skin and help to maintain its firmness and elasticity. By the time we reach our 60s and 70s, the appearance, tone, and texture of the skin usually are very different than in previous decades of life. Wrinkles have set in. Having lost much of its fullness, along with its ability to spring back into shape, more mature skin may tend to sag or droop to a certain degree, even after having undergone a surgical facelift.

However, for most patients in their 40s, this usually is not as great concern since the skin still possesses some of its laxity, as well as an adequate amount of underlying tissue, versus that of older adults. In general, patients in Greater New Jersey who are considering facial rejuvenation usually have the added benefit of good-quality skin to further enhance the long-lasting results that can be achieved with a surgical facelift.

Facelift benefits

It’s no secret that the body transforms during our 40s. As women begin the journey toward menopause, they may notice changes in their skin. When collagen and elastin production levels begin to drop, oftentimes their jawline and cheeks follow suit and may take on a saggier, drooping appearance. As its youthful fullness fades, the face may start to look thin or a bit deflated, and fine lines and wrinkles can become noticeable. Even skin on the neck may look less taut and firm. You can tell whether the skin has lost some of its elasticity if at least one centimeter on the jowls, neck, or the nasolabial fold around the nose and mouth can be easily pinched. The skilled plastic surgeons at The Peer Group work closely with patients in their 40s to determine whether they are suited for a facelift as well as which style will provide them with the rejuvenated results they desire.

Which style is right for you?

It is common for Greater New Jersey patients in their 40s to turn to non-invasive procedures such as laser treatments and injectables to slow or reverse the hands of time. Although these popular cosmetic treatments can refresh the face and make wrinkles and fine lines less visible, the results cannot compare to those that are achieved with a surgical facelift. Because skin laxity among 40-something patients usually is not as pronounced as it is with older patients, in many cases a full facelift is not required. Read on to learn about some of the available options:

The mini facelift

less-invasive mini facelifts are popular among Greater New Jersey patients in their 40s. This procedure requires smaller incisions than a traditional full facelift and boasts a quicker recovery. However, it still effectively targets the muscles deep beneath the skin that lend structure to the face. A mini facelift can work to provide a slight lift while also tightening the lower face. Loose skin around the cheeks, sagging jowls, and skin below the jawline and on the neck - areas where patients in their 40s most often experience changes - can be addressed.

The mid-facelift

Also known as a cheek lift, a mid-facelift is designed to tackle areas around the mouth (including the nasolabial folds), the nose, cheeks, and eyes. Some of the earliest signs of aging, such as skin sagging on and around the cheeks, can be addressed with a mid-facelift. During their 40s, patients may begin to experience loose, sagging skin as well as wrinkles around the midsection of the face. During the procedure, the experienced plastic surgeons of The Peer Group in Florham Park, NJ make small incisions just outside of the cheek area. These are used to create a subtle lift. So-called laugh and smile lines can be smoothed, and skin laxity in the area can be improved.

By lifting the malar fat pad in the cheek, a mid-facelift can restore fullness that may have been lost. The results of this procedure are longer lasting than those achieved with injectable fillers. Another bonus: Recovery from a mid-facelift usually is shorter and easier than with a full facelift. In conjunction with a mid-facelift, blepharoplasty (better known as an eye lift) may also be performed. This procedure can be effective for reducing bags and puffiness in the area below the eyes and can eliminate fine lines and crow’s feet.

Lower facelift and neck lift

When the cheeks begin to droop and skin starts to sag along the jawline and below the chin, Greater New Jersey patients in their 40s may want to consider a lower facelift. This procedure can significantly improve the appearance of loose skin on the lower third portion of the face by tightening underlying structures that have weakened. Meanwhile, a neck lift can be performed to address wrinkled skin on the neck as well as to improve the appearance of the jiggly jowls and diminish a dreaded double chin.

The idea of growing old gracefully is a thing of the past for many men and women in Greater New Jersey. When the earliest signs of aging become apparent, patients in their 40s need not wait to address their cosmetic concerns. Several styles of facelifts are available to smooth wrinkles, plump cheeks, and restore youthfulness to their appearance. You are encouraged to schedule an appointment with the board-certified plastic surgeons at The Peer Group in Florham Park, NJ, and learn how and what type of facelift may benefit you.


It’s So Cool! Learning All About CoolSculpting

It’s So Cool! Learning All About CoolSculpting

It can be frustrating when persistent pockets of fat fail to respond to the effects of diet and exercise. One of the hottest ways for patients in Greater New Jersey to ditch an unwanted belly pooch and smooth their thighs is with CoolSculpting. This revolutionary treatment is considered an alternative to traditional liposuction. It works by freezing the fat, which is shed naturally by the body to reveal a more toned and contoured physique.

Even areas that are difficult to slim with targeted exercise can be transformed with CoolSculpting. One of the biggest benefits to this procedure is that there is no invasive surgery or extensive downtime required! The board-certified plastic surgeons at The Peer Group in Florham Park, NJ expertly explain how this innovative procedure can produce such excellent results.

The skinny on CoolSculpting

FDA approved CoolSculpting targets subcutaneous fat cells and crystallizes (or freezes) them in a process called cryolipolysis. This science was discovered years ago by happenstance when a pair of doctors from Massachusetts noticed that the fat inside of the cheeks of young children disappeared as they ate icy-cold popsicles. The rest, as they say, is history!

CoolSculpting is different from other procedures that are designed to remove fat in that it only impacts fat cells below the skin. The top layer of skin, as well as tissues surrounding the treatment area, are not affected. Once frozen, the fat cells die and are liquified before being processed naturally and eliminated by the body. The results are truly remarkable. According to studies, CoolSculpting can work to reduce fat by up to 20%, leaving behind a more sculpted, shapely silhouette in treated areas.

Because there is no surgery involved with CoolSculpting, patients of The Peer Group do not need any type of anesthesia or numbing medication and can resume normal activity following their treatment. Also, the lack of incisions means that no residual scarring will be experienced, so Greater New Jersey patients may discreetly undergo the procedure.

Which areas can be treated?

CoolSculpting treatments are designed to eliminate fat where it has stubbornly hung on even after countless lunges, squats, and sit-ups have been performed. This state-of-the-art system targets areas including the abdomen, flanks, and hips that have proven disappointingly slow or extremely resistant to improvement, despite a strict diet and exercise regimen. Other areas, including the thighs, upper arms, the lower half of the buttocks, the knee,s and even dreaded double chins also may benefit from CoolSculpting treatments. Rolls of fat that form on the back, such as those that appear in front of the underarm area and beneath the bra line, also can be addressed.

Are you a candidate for CoolSculpting?

Physically fit adults in the Greater New Jersey area who can maintain a healthy weight, as well as those who are capable of making wise lifestyle choices, usually are considered ideal candidates for CoolSculpting treatments. They may be fed up with the pesky pockets or bothersome bulges of fat that have accumulated on specific areas of their body.

Women in who wish to restore their pre-pregnancy figure, but who can’t seem to shed a small area of fat on their stomach, may turn to CoolSculpting to help flatten their abs. Meanwhile, men who have had it with the love handles on their hips may also decide to freeze away the fat. Several problem areas can be treated with CoolSculpting so that patients may feel more confident in their appearance and achieve their aesthetic goals.

However, CoolSculpting may not be an option for Greater New Jersey patients who are obese or are considering weight-loss surgery. Also, the procedure does not work to improve skin laxity. Patients who possess substantial amounts of excess skin are not likely to see their condition improve following treatments. It is possible to pair CoolSculpting with other cosmetic procedures that may increase the firmness of the skin. The expert board-certified plastic surgeons at The Peer Group can recommend alternative treatments that may be effective.

What to expect during treatment?

One of the many benefits of CoolSculpting is that it is a quick procedure. It is not unusual for patients to schedule treatments at The Peer Group in Florham Park, NJ during their lunch break and return to work and other daily activities immediately afterward. Keeping patients safe, comfortable, and relaxed throughout the procedure is a priority.

A cooling gel pad is placed on the designated treatment area, followed by the revolutionary CoolSculpting applicator, which draws fat and skin up into the device. Patients may feel a slight pinching or pulling sensation, but this is temporary and may cause only minor discomfort. In fact, most Greater New Jersey patients are able to check their phones, read a magazine, or even nap during their CoolSculpting sessions. An intense cold feeling may be experienced as the controlled cooling is applied, but this should subside as the treatment progresses. Following their procedure, men and women may feel temporary numbness or tingling in the treatment, although these should be mild. The treatment area may appear slightly red or bruised but will improve.

Eliminating fat with CoolSculpting

Fat cells that have been frozen with CoolSculpting are transformed into a liquid, which is subsequently flushed out by the body. This usually occurs within 12 weeks following your treatment. The board-certified plastic surgeons at The Peer Group may recommend additional treatments to achieve optimal contoured results. If so, areas that were previously targeted with CoolSculpting will continue to improve even as dramatic results in the newly treated areas emerge.

In general, Greater New Jersey patients can begin to expect to witness the long-lasting results of CoolSculpting treatments about 2-3 months following their treatment session. Once removed, fat cells in areas that were treated are unable to return. Many patients report that their outstanding CoolSculpting results motivate them to exercise regularly and follow a proper diet in order to maintain their sexy, new contours.

When small areas of fat prove difficult to shed, CoolSculpting may be able to help Greater New Jersey patients achieve the slimmer and more shapely hips, abs, and thighs that they long to have. Learn more about this innovative system by scheduling an appointment with the board-certified plastic surgeons at The Peer Group in Florham Park, NJ today.


Busted! 10 Myths About Breast Augmentation

Busted! 10 Myths About Breast Augmentation

More than 313,000 breast augmentations were performed in the U.S. in 2018, making it the most popular cosmetic surgery procedure. Despite the fact that so many women have undergone this transformative surgery, there is still plenty of misinformation about it circulating online and via word of mouth. Maybe you’ve heard that breast augmentation is only for younger women, or that it will make your breasts disproportionately large. Have you been told that implants are unsafe or that they must be replaced every few years?

The myths surrounding breast augmentation are numerous. Thankfully, the board-certified plastic surgeons at The Peer Group in Florham Park, NJ are here to expertly dispel them and provide patients with the correct information they need in order to feel confident about going forward with their procedure. In this article, they breakdown 10 of the biggest fallacies about breast augmentation.

10 Myths About Breast Augmentation

Implants make breasts look fake.

During the 1990s, trends in breast augmentation favored a heavily enhanced look. However, this is no longer the case, as current trends support a more natural appearance. New implant technology has allowed for better designs and materials that help the devices look and feel more like natural breasts. When breast augmentations are performed by the skilled, board-certified plastic surgeons of The Peer Group, beautiful results are achieved.

Only women who crave attention get breast augmentation.

Although an increase in attention may be experienced after undergoing breast augmentation, it usually is not the primary reason for a woman to opt for the surgery. In most cases, Greater New Jersey patients turn to the procedure as a way to help clothing fit better as well as to feel more comfortable and confident about their appearance. Breast augmentation is a highly personal procedure. There are a multitude of reasons why a woman may choose to enhance her bustline.

Sagging breasts can be improved with implants.

Several factors can cause natural breasts to sag and appear deflated. These can include pregnancy, extreme weight loss, and the effects of aging. While implants can improve and enhance the shape and size of the breasts, they do not address sagginess. It has been suggested that by placing an implant beneath the muscle, the device may work to support the breast and possibly prevent sagging in the future. However, scientific evidence to support this theory does not exist.

For patients who grapple with sagging, droopy breasts, a breast lift procedure can be performed as part of your augmentation. This is designed to reposition the breasts higher on the body so that they may look more perky and youthful.

Your surgery scars will be unsightly.

Advancements in surgical techniques for breast augmentation have made significant scarring a thing of the past. Depending on the placement of the incisions that your plastic surgeon makes, scars can be easily hidden by undergarments or a swimsuit. When incisions are placed in the underarm area, the breasts will be free of scars. The board-certified plastic surgeons of The Peer Group carefully consider the various styles of breast augmentation when determining how to create the best possible aesthetic outcomes for patients.

Implants make breastfeeding impossible.

This pervasive myth is one of the biggest involving breast augmentations. It also is entirely untrue. Many Greater New Jersey women are pleased to learn that in most cases, it is still possible to breastfeed your children after implants have been placed. During your consultation with the board-certified plastic surgeons of The Peer Group, be sure to discuss your desire to breastfeed the following augmentation.

Nipple sensitivity disappears after surgery.

It is possible for some patients, especially those who select larger implants, to experience a temporary decrease or loss of nipple sensation as a result of breast augmentation. This is a result of nerves being stretched by the implants. As your body slowly adjusts to your newly augmented chest, nipple sensitivity should be restored.

Only younger women can get breast implants.

In general, breast augmentation is an option for women of almost any age. While it is popular among New Jersey area women in their 20s and 30s, many patients turn to the surgery during their 40s once they are finished having children and wish to restore confidence in the appearance of their body. As with any cosmetic surgery, women considering breast augmentation should be in good health and capable of setting and maintaining realistic expectations for the surgery as well as its results.

There is no such thing as a safe implant.

You likely have heard frightening accounts of women who claim to have fallen ill as the result of a ruptured breast implant. It is important to know that implants are extremely durable devices. They are manufactured and thoroughly tested according to federal government safety standards. In fact, estimates show that only about 10% of saline implants burst within the first decade and require replacement. With silicone implants, that number is even lower.

Implants must be replaced every few years.

While some breast implant manufacturers recommend that the devices be removed and replaced after 10 years, the majority of plastic surgeons disagree as long as the implant has not ruptured, and the patient is satisfied with how it is performing. Deciding to increase or decrease the size of your breasts can make it necessary for your implants to be replaced. However, barring a rupture or another rare complication, long-lasting saline and silicone implants usually do not need to be routinely replaced.

Breast augmentation is a simple procedure.

Although the surgical techniques associated with breast augmentation are fairly straightforward, it takes a highly trained plastic surgeon with extensive experience in breast augmentation and a keen eye for detail, such as those of The Peer Group, to create the stunningly beautiful, natural-looking result. Before moving forward with your procedure, be sure to thoroughly research a plastic surgeon’s medical and practice history and confirm that he or she specializes in breast augmentation. This will help to ensure that your surgery goes well and that you receive an excellent aesthetic outcome.

Now that you know the facts about breast augmentation, you may feel more confident in moving forward with this extremely popular procedure for yourself. Schedule a consultation with the board-certified plastic surgeons at The Peer Group in Florham Park, NJ to begin the journey toward discovering a new you.