New Year: New You?

"Happy new year" with fireworks

My plastic surgery society, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, has forecast the top cosmetic enhancements for 2015. While some of these may apply to you and some may not, it’s exciting to know what’s available!

The Cell Phone Photo Trend

In the past, people brought their cameras to special events but with the advent of cell phone photography, we essentially have a camera with us 24/7! Cell phone photography has “instantized” the photos that chronicle our lives. Prior to that trend, photos tended to be more “formal,” in that they were often staged. People lined up in a group, or posed for a shot, making sure they stood or sat up straight, tucked in their chin to hide the double chin, sucked in their tummy to look slimmer, etc. You can see that, while the “now time” aspect of cell phone photos can be fun, it also exposes every imperfection, up close and personal. Perfect example: One of my Munster liposuction patients told me she’d never noticed the extra fat she had around her jawline until she saw photos from last summer’s family reunion, prompting her to take action. So, on the one hand, instant photos are great but, on the other hand, photos do have a way of revealing some of our less attractive attributes when we’re caught unaware!

The Trend for Dual-Purpose Cosmetic Procedures

A dual-purpose procedure is one in which a functional surgery, such as a hernia repair, is performed in conjunction with a cosmetic procedure, such as a tummy tuck. I’ve done several of these here in Valparaiso and Schererville: I perform the tummy tuck and the patient’s general surgeon performs the hernia repair. Another dual-purpose trend is adding a rhinoplasty to a septoplasty to repair a deviated septum. While insurance won’t cover the cosmetic portion of these dual procedures, it means one less recovery for my patients.

The Trend Towards Older Plastic Surgery Patients

While most of my Valparaiso facelift patients are between 45 and 65, seniors over the age of 70 are active and healthy, and want to look as young as they feel. And it’s not just face lifts that are bringing them in: it’s breast augmentation, breast lifts, tummy tucks and liposuction as well as eyelid surgery, not to mention non-surgical treatments such as BOTOX® Cosmetic and dermal fillers!

The Trend Towards Small Changes With Big Impact

Sometimes just a little change can make a huge difference, particularly in the face and neck. A bit of neck liposuction, lip plumping, a lip lift or even the removal of birthmarks or moles can provide a huge confidence boost and a fresher appearance. Many of our patients find that committing to a professional skincare regimen will make a surprising difference in their skin, giving them a softer, more youthful appearance.

I cannot think of another field that’s advancing as quickly as plastic surgery. New techniques, new products and new treatments will continue to enable me, a board certified Northwest Indiana plastic surgeon, to continue to deliver the finest services to my patients. Let’s make it an exciting 2015! Call my office at 800-721-2344 or complete this online consultation request form to schedule a personal consultation.

To your health & beauty,

Gustavo Galante, MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Valparaiso, Munster, Schererville

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