U.S. News & World Report has released its annual ranking of the nation’s hospitals. They have an honor roll of the top 14 hospitals in the nation (link), and separate ranked lists for different specialties. I’m proud to see that both University of Michigan Medical Center and Massachusetts General Hospital – both institutions where I did […]
The following article is an abbreviated version of a news item, originally written by fellow Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Ramona Bates. By the way, if you haven’t yet seen Dr. Bates’ blog, “Suture for a Living”, do check it out (link). It’s very well written, and shows off both her medical writing and her hobby, making […]
It’s pretty cool when modern medicine comes up with a treatment that replaces or reduces the need for invasive surgery. In the case of Xiaflex, a new injectable treatment for people with Dupuytren’s disease, this may well be the case. Dupuytren’s, by way of background, is a disease in which fibrous collagen-laden tissue builds up in […]
Remember, back in November, we brought you the story of a Texas lady who was illegally selling fake Botox and filler products under the the name “Discount Med-spa”? Well, it seems that her conviction and sentencing had no effect, as here’s yet another website selling bogus imitation Botox under the name Pretique. (link) This material is […]
In this month’s issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, a new report describes a frequent problem with the McGhan style 510 implant: implant rotation. The style 510 implant is not available here in the U.S. market, but is used extensively in Europe. It has a “teardrop” or “anatomic” shape, and is filled with two layers of […]
Background: For the last few years, cardiologists have been following a blood test called homocysteine, as a risk indicator for heart and stroke. Previous studies have showed an association between lower homocysteine levels and lower coronary heart disease. However, no studies have yet been able to prove a benefit (i.e. less heart disease) from interventions which lower homocysteine. […]
This one sounds almost too good to be true, but it comes from a reliable source, and as a chocolate lover, I just have to pass it on! I’d certainly rather have a tall, cold glass of chocolate milk than an electrolyte-based sports drink after a work-out! Source: MDLinx ************* New research suggests drinking chocolate […]
Wanting an attractive tummy is a popular request at our office. But many people are unsure about the differences between tummy tuck and liposuction. The two operations are quite different. Let me explain… To start, we have to evaluate four different layers of the abdomen, and how they each contribute to the appearance of your abdomen. These are: […]
It’s controversial, but some new studies suggest there may be people who have addictive behavior patterns when it comes to tanning and the use of UV tanning beds. A recent study published in Archives of Dermatology, by researchers at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and the University of Albany, found that 27 percent of college students surveyed have a […]
When it comes to crowded markets, Southern California has got to be tough for those offering liposuction. There’s competition around every corner, it seems. Recently, a study in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery did a survey of liposuction providers in Southern California, and the results were eye-opening in terms of surgical training and experience. They found that in […]
