Study Shows Need for More Conversation About Breast Reconstruction Options

Posted on September 30, 2011 by copywriter

A new study shows that good patient education can significantly increase the rate of breast reconstruction among breast cancer patients.

According to research by plastic surgeon Jamie Levine, MD and colleagues, more than half of uninsured patients with breast cancer do not receive adequate information about their options in breast reconstruction. But improving patient education can help remedy this situation.

The co-author commented to ASPS about the disparity between patients with insurance and those without, saying: “Private and government insurance are required to cover breast reconstruction for cancer patients. In spite of this, our research shows that many uninsured patients are being denied a key conversation about breast reconstruction that should take place at the time of diagnosis.” The rate of breast reconstruction for uninsured women has been reported at a very low eight percent, the authors noted.

Some details of the breast reconstruction study:

  • 54 uninsured women were diagnosed with breast cancer at a public hospital
  • 52% of patients had no knowledge about breast reconstruction before receiving patient education
  • When provided with multi-media and other tools, or were referred to a plastic surgeon, the percentage of uninsured women who had breast reconstruction significantly increased (76% vs. 47%)

Patient education is a matter of equality, according to Dr. Levine. “”These patients deserve the same right, as those insured, to make informed decisions about their bodies and healthcare,” he said.

Read more about breast reconstruction options in Bellevue, WA.

Source:

Implementation of a Patient-Based Education System Increases the Rate of Breast Reconstruction Following Mastectomy in an Urban Center

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Study of Topical Botulinum Toxin Shows Positive Results

Posted on September 30, 2011 by copywriter

In a recent study involving 270 patients with crow’s feet, 89 percent of subjects showed a statistically significant wrinkle improvement after treatment with topical botulinum toxin.

The possibility of a topical Botulinum toxin product entering the already competitive non-invasive procedure market is exciting. The gel under investigation is currently called RT001, and it’s being tested as a crow’s feet remedy. According to Revance therapeutics, the drug has the potential to triple the market.

“Many patients want the benefits injectable products offer but shy away from needles,” said study author Michael Kane, M.D. A topical botulinum toxin may be the answer. “This unique, painless product could greatly expand the patient population for wrinkle reduction by offering a highly effective treatment option,” says Dr. Kane. RT001 is currently in clinical trials and has not received clearance from the U.S. FDA.

How Topical Botulinum Toxin Works

RT001 reportedly works by penetrating the skin, which relaxes the underlying muscles. Other topical skin treatments do not work in this manner; they don’t affect the muscles. The physician applies RT001 gel and then cleanses the face with a proprietary technique.

Don’t expect to find this at the cosmetics counter. If approved, patients will only be able to undergo the procedure at a physician’s office,” said Dr. Kane, a clinical investigator for the drug. He says that more than 500 subjects have received treatment (in 11 clinical trials) and they showed successful results that last about four months. The trials are in the second phase of three necessary phases that come before the drug can receive clearance to enter the market.

Sources

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A Guide to Tummy Tuck Surgery

Posted on September 12, 2011 by copywriter

What is a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, involves the removal excess fat and skin from the mid-section and repair of weakened or separated muscles.

A trim, toned tummy is a common goal for both men and women alike. When changes in body weight (often pregnancy or major weight loss) make it impossible to reach that goal, a tummy tuck may help.

Reasons for a tummy tuck

The natural elasticity of the skin allows it to stretch to accommodate changes in the body’s shape, but there is a limit to how far it can stretch and still return to its previous shape. When the skin stretches beyond that limit, due to pregnancy or dramatic weight loss, the result is often loose, wrinkly skin that does not respond to diet or exercise.

Tummy Tuck Photos

The surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia and begins with a long incision across the lower part of the abdomen;  running  from hip bone to hip bone, just above the pubic area. The skin is then separated from the underlying tissues, which creates a flap of skin that is lifted to gain access to the abdominal muscles.

A second incision is made around the belly button to free it from the abdominal tissue. The muscles underneath are then pulled together and stitched into their new position, creating a firmer abdominal wall and thinner waist-line. The flap of skin is stretched down over the muscles and excess skin and fat are removed. The  skin is then reattached and a new opening is cut for the belly button. The result is a smother, flatter tummy. Any scars from the procedure are intentionally located just above the pubic area so as to be easily concealed by a swimsuit or underwear.

If you’re considering a tummy tuck

Any person considering a tummy tuck should have realistic expectations about the procedures and meet with an experienced plsatic surgeon to discuss the risks as well as benefits of the procedure. A person’s age, weight, overall health and type of skin can affect the results of a tummy tuck. Depending on the type of procedure (a full or partial tummy tuck) a patient should plan for adequate recovery time before returning to normal activities. Recovery times vary from patient to patient.

An ideal candidate for a tummy tuck is physically healthy and at a stable weight, has realistic expectations and does not smoke. Contact Dr. Leff in Bellevue today to see if you can benefit from a tummy tuck.

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Plastic Surgeons Report More Risky Medical Tourism

Posted on September 1, 2011 by copywriter

Medical tourism is based on the idea that cosmetic surgery, or some other medical procedure, can be obtained inexpensively overseas.

Unfortunately, some doctors that cater to tourists are less scrupulous than those in the United States. This can leave patients with complications like infection, hematoma, and other medical issues that must be surgically repaired upon their return. Necessary operations back home can be expensive for the patient, as a health insurance company may not cover the procedure and facility fee.

Medical tourism is becoming more popular, according to the ASAPS. American plastic surgeons are seeing an increase in complications among patients returning from medical tourism trips. Surgeons who responded to a survey published in the August issue of the Aesthetic Surgery Journal reported cases of severe infection and contour abnormalities among their patients.

Breast augmentation was the most common cosmetic surgery performed overseas. This is also a very popular procedure in the U.S., but is often not covered by private insurance and must be paid for out of pocket. Patients looking for a less expensive way to improve their appearance may find medical tourism attractive, but the non-monetary costs can be high. The health risks involved make these tourism trips a scary proposition.

People who are looking for a way to manage the costs of cosmetic surgery should reconsider medical tourism. Instead, seek out a reputable U.S. surgeon who offers financing or a payment plan through their practice. This will allow you to improve your appearance and self-confidence, without taking unnecessary health risks.

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