Archive for the ‘Personal’ Category
Why Read A Plastic Surgery Blog?
Monday, May 14th, 2012Every week for over a year now, I spend the time to write a blog on a topic I think will appeal to my patients, and to people in general. I often wonder how many people actually read it, and if it is indeed worthwhile to do so.
I try not to use my blogs as a simple commercial to sell my goods and services to people. It is not an ad, it is an educational tool. Sometimes it is a release for my creative energy, or a chance to share some light humor. Sometimes, even I do not know where the thoughts come from, it just happens. But why should you, or anyone, read my plastic surgery blog?
I feel that at Yager Esthetics, we are more than a plastic surgery practice. We are a center for education regarding not just plastic surgery, but nonsurgical treatments and skin care as well. We have a strong commitment to the Hispanic community, and concentrate and specialize our techniques for our patients. The blog is a free and informative tool to learn about plastic surgery, music, and life. It also gives you a little taste of my personality, which can help you decide if it is worth your time to visit me in Washington Heights.
So, why read a plastic surgery blog? It is fun, educational, and might just help you in ways you never expected.
Botox Gone Bad- Injectable Horror Stories
Tuesday, March 20th, 2012As a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in New York, I see many patients with facial lines who are looking for nonsurgical correction. Many of them have had it done before in other places, and I hear shocking stories . Let me tell you a little bit about how to avoid being ripped off or permanently damaged.
Only a doctor or a nurse under his direct supervision licensed in the state can inject you with a filler or botox. If it is a doctor from another country or a salon or spa employee, it is illegal for them to do this. Make sure you ask if they are licensed by the state to do this procedure.
Anyone with a license to practice medicine regardless of what field they trained in can offer you injectables. This means your Family Practitioner, Ob/Gyn, Radiologist, and even Dentists can do these treatments with no training required. Ask what field they received there Board Certification in, and how long they have been doing that particular treatment.
Make sure you know what you are getting. Many illegal practitioners inject silicone, but call it botox or biopolymer or whatever is hot. You can avoid this by asking to see the bottle or syringe and packaging first. All legal injectables have the brand and logo printed on them. A regular syringe of clear liquid is most likely silicone. This is permanent and can cause longterm problems.
Even if you get botox, it can be watered down. Botox is measured in units, and each area needs about 15 to 25 units. Ask how many units, as sometimes a cheap price isn’t so inexpensive if you are getting less.
My last advice is if you are unsure or feel that something is not right, do not do the procedure. It is not an emergency, do your homework. You can always go back if all checks out. Hope this helps.
Your Plastic Surgeon is not your Parent
Tuesday, March 13th, 2012Many patients visit me at Yager Esthetics looking for answers to their cosmetic concerns. They want to look better, have heard good things about my office from friends, family, other doctors, or on television, and they see me for a consultation. What surprises some is that I do not make any of the decisions, I leave them to the patient.
To clarify, this does not mean I do what the patient asks of me regardless of what it is. It is my job to educate you, give you the benefit of my experience, and review the risk and benefits of your options with you. I will let you know if I disagree with your choice, and explain why it may not be your best option as well. I am not your parent, I am your experienced guide and teacher, a partner in care who will help you decide what the best choice may be.
I hear stories of consultations in other offices where the doctor pops in, looks at the patient, and tells them what they need, and leaves it to his staff to answer questions and try to make you commit to surgery. I do not think this is adequate. Each patient is unique, and just because you plastic surgeon is partial to a c-cup, this might be either too big or small for your taste. One size does NOT fit all.
I encourage you to come to my office for an education on your safe options for improving your appearance. I will do my best to guide you through the process so that we may come to a mutually agreeable decision as to how to realize your esthetic dreams.
Is Plastic Surgery a Good Investment?
Tuesday, February 21st, 2012With tax season upon us, and many of my patients receiving refund checks, the question arises as to how best to spend the money. Obviously, family and financial needs must first be met. But what if there is a little bit more that you could use? Is plastic surgery a good investment?
I am a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, not a financial planner or a business person, so my observations are from my 15 years at Yager Esthetics. I will lay out for you the potential benefits, and you can decide whether it makes sense to you.
Plastic surgery can boost your self esteem and enhance the way you feel about your body and your sexuality. The confidence it brings can change the clothing choices you make, the activities you will participate in, and even the way you interact with others both socially and in business.
A refreshed appearance can make you look younger, more energetic, and less tired to potential romantic interests as well as potential employers. It can also help those who feel young on the inside feel better about looking in the mirror and seeing what they want to see.
Cosmetic Plastic Surgery can be empowering, especially to women after having had children or massive weight loss. It can be a fresh start to a healthier lifestyle, as when you look better, you tend to take better care of yourself through improved diet and exercise.
All of these benefits are enjoyed every hour of every day no matter where you are or what time it is. Yes it is a “me” thing, but if you have worked hard you deserve to do something for yourself.
If the numbers add up for you, it may turn out to be the best money you have ever spent.
I’m Going to Disney World
Monday, February 13th, 2012Believe it or not, I do take the occasional vacation to spend uninterrupted time with my family. The latest trip is to Disney, as I have children of that age. Throughout the process of planning, I was struck by what I could learn about running Yager Esthetics from the Disney experience.
First of all, the website was a great way to see the offerings, get information about the options available, and see photos. It even helped to find out how to get there. This is all done in an attractive and user friendly manner. The www.dryager.com website strives to do the same thing. I wish I could put pricing in as Disney does to offer a quote with all options, but this is against the code of ethics of ASPS.
The customer service, both over the phone and in person, is superb. They are friendly, helpful, and professional. The message on hold is also useful. You feel like they care. This is also done at Yager Esthetics. From the first call, to the appointment welcome, and through the process, we strive for excellence.
The staff and locations are well trained and well maintained, and cleanliness is paramount. Everything is done in a thoughtful and professional manner. Lastly, people leave happy and encourage others to visit. Word of mouth is the most common form of referral. Disney or Yager, that is true.