coolsculping and Lipo

Be Swimsuit Season Ready This Year with CoolSculpting or Lipo!

Bloomfield Hills, MI– With warmer weather comes more outdoor activity, including trips to the beach or pool. While the word swimsuit may strike fear in the hearts of some, Detroit-area plastic surgeon Dr. Ali is prepared.

“We are lucky to live in a time where many people can attain their ideal body results relatively quickly. With procedures like CoolSculpting and liposuction, virtually anyone can be ready for swimsuit season in very little time,” notes the surgeon.

CoolSculpting

Developed by Harvard University Scientists, CoolSculpting is the only non-surgical fat treatment option approved by the FDA.

“I love offering this treatment to patients, as there is little to no downtime and no surgical procedure is required,” says Dr. Ali. “The best part is, patients experience amazing results that they could not otherwise achieve.”

Candidates for CoolSculpting are those who would like to lose fat in the following areas: flanks, thighs, abdomen, back, and/or under the chin. Those interested in the procedure should be at or near their ideal body weight and have a body mass index (BMI) under 30.

This procedure can be done quickly in a doctor’s office and patients can resume their daily activities immediately after treatment. During the procedure, patients are conscious and can read, use electronic devices, or rest.

Since CoolSculpting freezes fat cells, the body will take a few weeks to break down and expel the dead tissue. This means that though patients may not see results in the minutes and hours after their procedure, a dramatic difference will likely be noticed in the upcoming weeks. Fat cells will continue to leave the body for up to six months after the initial treatment.

Liposuction

For those seeking to get rid of stubborn fat that is too difficult to get rid of by diet or exercise, liposuction is another option.

A much more dramatic and invasive procedure than CoolSculpting, liposuction is a surgery that removes deep fat tissue using a device to literally suck the fat out of the body. Any area with fat cells may be targeted, though areas commonly treated are: the abdomen, thighs, back, and upper arms. Performed under general or intravenous sedation, liposuction must be done by an experienced professional for safe and lasting results.

“Liposuction is the most commonly utilized plastic surgery today,” Dr. Ali explains. “Patients generally love the long-lasting results achieved by this technique, and most are able to return to work within a day or two.”

Liposuction results can take up to nine months to fully show, but patients note dramatic changes within a few weeks to months after surgery.

Seeking Professional Care

With summer drawing ever nearer, Dr. Ali reminds patients, “The earlier you consult with a plastic surgeon, the sooner you will achieve your desired results. Remember, some of these procedures can take a few months to give you the body you want.”

To get started immediately, schedule an appointment with Dr. Ali and his team in Michigan today! You can also call 855-335-7200 to speak with the office directly.

About Us: Detroit area plastic surgeon Dr. M. Azhar Ali and his team are skilled and knowledgeable aesthetic care professionals well-versed in procedures like CoolSculpting and liposuction. Board-certified Dr. Ali has won numerous awards and has thousands of surgeries under his belt. He and his team offer competent, experienced and compassionate care to all patients.

© 2017 Millionairium and Dr. Ali. Authorization to post is granted, with the stipulation that Millionairium and Dr. Ali are credited as sole source. Linking to other sites from this document is strictly prohibited, with the exception of herein imbedded links.

Chemical Peel Healing Time

How Long Do Skin Peels Take to Heal?

Bloomfield Hills, MI– Wrinkles. Acne scars. Sun damage. Pigment changes or irregularities. These and other problems are common reasons for getting a chemical peel done.

“Chemical peels are a great solution for evening out your skin and revitalizing it overall,” says Detroit-area plastic surgeon Dr. Ali. “While destroying old skin cells, this process allows new, healthy cells to emerge and grow.”

Healing Time: It Depends

Since there are several kinds of chemical peels used for skin treatment, recovery times also vary. All in all, depending on the type of peel used, skin usually heals itself in anywhere from one day to several months.

Dr. Ali explains, “There are three main classes of chemical peels: superficial, medium, and deep. Each one uses different chemicals and application lengths, and each affects the skin differently. We at Amae Medspa very much customize our treatments; we offer nine types of chemical peels and devise a care plan unique to each person.”

Superficial Peels

In superficial peels, the target is removing only the outermost layer of skin, called the epidermis. First, the skin is cleaned and then a combination of mild acids is used to expose younger, healthier skin beneath the surface.

The acid is left on the skin for a few minutes and then neutralized with alcohol or water, which stops the chemical reaction. While the chemicals are on the skin, many people report feeling a burning sensation, which can easily be relieved using a handheld fan.

Immediately afterwards, the skin will peel a bit and will likely turn pink. Though it might take redness a little while to subside, it is still safe to wear makeup after the procedure. Typical healing time is just a few days.

Medium Peels

Medium peels typically use similar chemicals to those in a superficial peel, but the mixture is kept on the skin longer: up to about 30-40 minutes, depending on the skin’s condition and desired results.

These peels are more painful, as the targeted areas are both the epidermis and top portion of the dermis. Pain relievers and oral sedatives are sometimes offered to help with the discomfort. A fan or cool compress may also alleviate any burning sensations.

Due to the nature of this treatment, a longer healing time should be anticipated. After a few days, skin will likely begin to crust and peel, only fully healing after a week or so. It’s best not to wear makeup for the first week after treatment, as this can slow the healing process. Typical healing time is approximately 5-7 days.

Deep Peels

As the name implies, deep peels target the deepest layer of the dermis possible without causing long-term damage. While it’s the most aggressive and painful treatment, it also provides the most dramatic and long-lasting results. With this procedure, it’s best to wait two weeks or more before using makeup again. Skin will likely take a few months to completely heal and repair, so antibiotics and/or antivirals may be prescribed to keep infections at bay. Typical healing time is anywhere from three weeks to two months.

Achieving Optimal Results

Pre- and post-peel care is crucial for achieving healthy, lasting results. Preparation for a chemical peel should be done two to three weeks beforehand and consists of washing the face twice daily, applying a special moisturizing cream once or twice each day, using sunscreen, and avoiding direct sunlight. These measures will ensure more even results and allow skin to heal faster after treatment.

After a peel, the acne medication Retin-A (tretinoin) is sometimes used to promote healing. To prevent viral infections, acyclovir or a similar prescription may be given especially to those who have had cold sores and had a chemical peel near the eyes or mouth.

Like pre-peel care, it’s also important to liberally apply sunscreen and limit sun exposure after a peel. Moisturizers should also be used for several weeks afterwards. This course of action keeps skin healthy and able to heal itself more efficiently.

To get started on your way to smoother skin, schedule an appointment with Dr. Ali today! You can also call 855-335-7200 to speak with the office directly.

© 2017 Millionairium and Dr. Ali. Authorization to post is granted, with the stipulation that Millionairium and Dr. Ali are credited as sole source. Linking to other sites from this document is strictly prohibited, with the exception of herein imbedded links.

Tummy tuck surgery Oakland COunty

How Long Do Tummy Tuck Results Last?

Bloomfield Hills, MI– A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures today. This outpatient surgery consists of making an incision just above the pubic hairline, taking out undesired skin and fat, possibly tightening abdominal muscles and tightening up the abdominal wall, then suturing up the cut. While results will be seen immediately, many patients wonder about the long-term outcome of this procedure.

Preparing for Success

As with any surgery, preparation will help you achieve optimal results. Detroit-area plastic surgeon Dr. Ali notes, “To obtain the best outcome possible for a tummy tuck, I strongly urge that patients get ready beforehand. While aftercare is also crucial in maintaining long-term results, pre-operative preparation is key.”

For those preparing to undergo an abdominoplasty, here are some ways to prepare:

  • Smokers should stop smoking prior to surgery, ideally at least a few days beforehand.
  • Those taking aspirin or other blood-thinning or anti-inflammatory medications should avoid them before surgery, as these might lead to excessive bleeding or hemorrhaging during the procedure.
  • Patients should be within about 10% of their ideal weight before the surgery. This weight should be maintained as long as possible following the surgery (months, if possible).
  • Patients should maintain a healthy diet immediately before and after the procedure for the best results.

Furthermore, a tummy tuck is not for everyone. Those still planning to have children should wait until they are done, as pregnancy can drastically disrupt healing after abdominoplasty. Those looking to lose a massive amount of weight should delay a tummy tuck until they are closer to their ideal weight.

“As always,” reminds Dr. Ali, “consulting with your plastic surgeon is absolutely necessary for attaining your ideal body. Your doctor will develop a care plan for you tailored exactly to your needs as well as unique anatomy and physiology.”

Short-term Recovery

Since a tummy tuck requires a substantial incision and much tissue removal, patients should expect to be in recovery for about 6 weeks after surgery. Depending on what type of abdominoplasty was done, healing time and results will vary from person to person. It’s possible that final results will only be seen 6-8 months after the procedure.

During recovery, a healthy diet is essential to healing. “Please be sure to rest and drink water. Eat well, and include plenty of vegetables and fruits in your diet to aid your body in achieving lasting results,” Dr. Ali asks of his patients.

Patients should also avoid strenuous activity – particularly of the abdominal area- for several weeks following surgery. It may help to elevate the abdomen when lying in bed.

Long-term Results

“As long as you maintain a healthy lifestyle post-procedure, there’s no reason a tummy tuck can’t last you the rest of your life,” says Dr. Ali.

There will be scarring, as the incisions made during tummy tucks are generally substantial. The good news is that these scars are usually quite low on the body, and can be easily hidden by undergarments and bathing suits.

The important thing is to keep new weight off. “Although fat tissue has been removed,” Dr. Ali explains, “the leftover adipose tissue can still grow with weight gain. This can happen to males and females alike and should be avoided.”

During follow-up visits with the plastic surgeon, periodic evaluations will be done to determine the success of the procedure.

While gravity and the aging process are ongoing adversaries for those who have had tummy tucks, patients can always undergo another procedure later on. “You can have your body contour reshaped throughout your life to keep the shape you love,” says Dr. Ali. “We’re happy to consult with you on these and any other aesthetic concerns you may have.”

To get started on your flatter stomach, schedule an appointment with Dr. Ali today! You can also call 855-335-7200 to speak with the office directly.
About Us: Dr. M. Azhar Ali is a Board-certified, Detroit area plastic surgeon who has won many awards. He and his team are experienced and knowledgeable aesthetic care professionals who are skilled in providing treatments like tummy tucks. The team at Amae Plastic Surgery Center offer competent and compassionate care to all patients.

© 2017 Millionairium and Dr. Ali. Authorization to post is granted, with the stipulation that Millionairium and Dr. Ali are credited as sole source. Linking to other sites from this document is strictly prohibited, with the exception of herein imbedded links.

Breast Lift Michigan

Give Your Breasts a Lift This Spring

Bloomfield Hills, MI – Spring is the season for rebirth, renewal, and rejuvenation. As flowers bloom and trees regain the leaves lost in winter, so too can you add a bit of revitalization to your figure.

We all fall victim to gravity over time. Whether from pregnancy, genetics, or other causes, the effects on breast tissue can be less than desirable. You might notice gravity causing inevitable sagging and loss of definition.

However, one of the most popular procedures in breast surgery is none other than the breast lift. Whether done as a procedure in its own right or as part of a mommy makeover, a breast lift can help give you the body you’ve been longing for. If you want to have a perkier, firmer bust, this might just be the right option for you!

What Does a Breast Lift Entail?

This procedure, undergone by an ever-increasing number of women, involves a few steps:

  • Incisions: Depending on the degree to which breast tissue will be lifted, incisions can be made around the areola or nipple, under the breast fold, vertically from the nipple to the fold, or any combination of these methods.
  • Excision of tissue: Again, as each woman is different, so too is the amount of tissue removed. Whatever the case, excess skin tissue will be taken away, allowing the breasts to regain their firmness. If necessary, your surgeon may also remove some breast tissue to increase perkiness.
  • Nipple modification: To create an aesthetic appearance, nipples and areola may be resized, repositioned, or both. This allows the entire breast’s appearance to be entirely enhanced.
  • Sutures: Sutures, placed underneath the skin, help the body adapt to and support the newly shaped breast tissue.
  • Implants: For optimal results, implants are sometimes necessary in addition to the breast lift. This allows for the supple fullness that keep the breasts looking young, firm, and healthy.

Tips for Your Breast Lift

  • Research your doctor. A good plastic surgeon will have before and after photos of work he or she has done and will be happy to share the prior results.
  • Research the procedure. Being an educated patient and knowing exactly what you do –and don’t—want can help you explain the precise outcome you want to your doctor.
  • Expect some downtime. Depending on the degree of droopiness and amount of breast tissue added and/or augmented, recovery can take a few weeks or longer.
  • Be as healthy as possible before the surgery. Eat well, drink plenty of water, and be sure to get as much sleep as you can. If you’re a smoker, stop smoking a few weeks before the surgery. This last tip can help you improve your recovery rate and also prevent infection post-surgery.
  • Wait until you’re done having children first. For the best breast lift results, it’s advised that you only have the procedure done after having all of your children. This will prevent additional drooping in the future.
  • Anticipate some scarring. Generally, the more dramatic the breast lift, the larger the scars will be. While these will diminish in appearance over time, talk to your doctor to see if she or he can prescribe you any creams (such as those containing steroids) to reduce inflammation from the procedure.
  • Get ready for some compliments! As a breast lift can greatly enhance your figure, you may notice people trying not to offend you by (delicately) complimenting on your surgery. Hopefully, with your newfound confidence, you’ll be able to take all these compliments with a broad smile on your face!

If you’re deciding what breast enhancement procedures are right for you, schedule a consultation with award-winning Detroit area plastic surgeon Dr. Ali.

To find out more about how to get rid of stretch marks, or to get your own detailed surgical consultation, contact Dr. Ali’s office today!

© 2017 Millionairium and Dr. Ali. Authorization to post is granted, with the stipulation that Millionairium and Dr. Ali are credited as sole source. Linking to other sites from this document is strictly prohibited, with the exception of herein imbedded links.

stretch mark removal

Is It Possible to Get Rid of Abdominal Stretch Marks?

Bloomfield Hills, MI – Be it from weight fluctuation, pregnancy, or other lifestyle changes, it can be difficult to deal with stretch marks in the abdominal area. Since stretch marks reach down to deeper layers of skin, they are difficult to rid of and may be bothersome or unsightly. Luckily, there is some help available.

Topical Remedies

Certain creams and other topical treatments can help reduce the appearance of stretch marks. Here are some that can work for you:

  • Moisturize! Topical moisturizers hydrate your skin and can minimize wear and tear if your skin needs to stretch further.
  • Lotion on old stretch marks can help minimize their appearance but works best on new marks.
  • Vitamin A: Tretinoin (Retin-A) is derived from vitamin A and is prescribed by a doctor. It can increase your skin’s production of elastin and collagen, proteins that help your skin maintain its vitality. Note: This should not be used if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or plan to become pregnant soon.
  • Glycolic wash/pads: These products can help increase production of collagen due to their alpha hydroxyl content. Ask your doctor for the most effective versions available.

Lifestyle Remedies

You’re likely sick of hearing the advice to “eat well and exercise,” but these words of wisdom have their place in skin repair as well. Try these tricks to reduce the appearance of stretch marks:

  • Eat your vitamins. Fruits and vegetables are high in the nutrients your skin needs to rejuvenate itself. Avoid refined sugar and foods with a high glycemic index; regulating hormones in this way can keep your skin looking healthier. Foods with antioxidants, like blueberries, pomegranates, and green tea can help boost your skin’s hydration.
  • Hydrate. Water’s importance cannot be understated in its role of keeping skin smooth and supple. Try to drink 6-8 glasses of water per day.
  • Hit the gym. Doing strength training and weight-bearing exercise can firm up skin. Target your approach to the abdominal area, balancing the exercise with back-strengthening activities as well. By firming your skin, you can reduce the look of stretch marks.

 

Laser Options

In cases of severe discoloration or skin distortion, surgery may be the best option. Here are some options that can work well:

  • Vascular laser treatment (also called a pulsed dye laser): This treatment is best used on new stretch marks. It can decrease redness in the marks’ initial stages.
  • Laser resurfacing (also called fractional laser treatment): For small areas with older stretch marks, this procedure can smooth over edges and improve overall skin tone.

 

Surgical Options

Sometimes, if no other alternative has proven effective, surgery may be the only option. Here are two to be considered:

  • Tummy tuck (also called abdominoplasty): This procedure literally cuts the stretch marks from your body, leaving you with a flatter, smoother abdomen. While there will be a new scar from hip to hip, it can easily be covered by undergarments or a bathing suit.
  • Mommy makeover: This is a combination of plastic surgeries, suited to the new mother. This series of treatments, all done at once, can instantly reduce the visibility of stretch marks.

 

No matter how you decide to diminish the appearance of your stretch marks, you can schedule a consultation with award-winning Detroit area plastic surgeon Dr. Ali.

To find out more about how to get rid of stretch marks, or to get your own detailed surgical consultation, contact Dr. Ali’s office today!

© 2017 Millionairium and Dr. Ali. Authorization to post is granted, with the stipulation that Millionairium and Dr. Ali are credited as sole source. Linking to other sites from this document is strictly prohibited, with the exception of herein imbedded links.

breast Lift

Breast Lift Vs. Breast Reduction – What’s the Difference?

Bloomfield Hills, Detroit, MI – When people think of breast surgeries, breast augmentation is typically the first procedure that comes to mind. And for good reason. Breast enhancement happens to be one of the most popular plastic surgeries the world over. Other breast surgeries may not get as much press, yet more women are opting for them than ever before. Breast lifts and breast reductions are becoming increasingly popular, and it’s important to learn the difference between the two before going under the knife.

Why Breast Surgery?

Many women see breasts as symbols of femininity. Furthermore, the size, shape and general appearance of her breasts can affect a woman’s self-esteem either positively or negatively. Many women choose breast surgery – either a breast lift or breast reduction – because age has taken its toll, or following childbirth. Some women seek out breast surgery during or after menopause and following significant weight loss.

Michigan plastic surgeon, Dr. M. Azhar Ali, regularly performs breast surgeries at Amae Plastic Surgery Center in Bloomfield Hills, a subsection of Detroit. According to Dr. Ali, breast lifts and breast reductions are both gaining in popularity, but the final decision of which surgery to choose should only come after a consultation and careful examination.

What is a Breast Lift?

A breast lift is recommended when a woman’s breast has lost its youthful shape and appearance due to age, childbirth or other factors. During the procedure, excess and loose skin are removed, and the nipple is repositioned to a higher level. For breasts that also lack volume, breast implants may be added. The after-effects include youthful and self-supporting breasts that help a woman’s confidence surge.

Following surgery, the woman will be required to wear a support bra around the clock for around two to four weeks. The bra helps to support the breasts while they heal. Activities should be limited so that the woman doesn’t overexert herself for at least four weeks, but she should be able to return to work after a week or so.

What is a Breast Reduction?

A woman’s breasts can swell during pregnancy or after weight gain, and some women have overly large breasts that are passed down through their family histories.

A breast reduction is recommended when the breasts have become so large that the woman experiences back, neck or shoulder pain. Oversized breasts can also make it uncomfortable to wear bras and, in some cases, exercise becomes next to impossible.

During the procedure, and in most cases, a three-part incision is made around the areola. This is also known as the “anchor” technique. Since the anchor technique can tend to produce a vertical scar around the nipple and down the fold of the breast, another procedure known as the “lollypop” method may be used. The lollypop eliminates the horizontal scar but is not always called for. The type of procedure performed is chosen by the plastic surgeon only after careful examination.

Dr. Ali notes that, “Depending on the size and shape of the breast, I will perform the type of surgery that produces the best outcome for the patient’s well-being and self-esteem.”
Following a breast lift, the patient should refrain from engaging in strenuous activity for at least six weeks. A support bra will also be used for a breast reduction, and normal activity should resume after a few weeks.

Other Breast Surgery Differences

A breast lift can cost as much as $5,000, and a breast reduction can run between $6,500 and $7,500. Both procedures offer about the same amount of downtime, and both can considerably enhance a woman’s self-esteem. One glaring difference between the two procedures is insurance. While a breast lift is rarely covered by insurance, breast reductions are often included. That’s because a breast reduction can alleviate pain and increase the woman’s quality of life.

Both a breast lift and breast reduction can also be part of a mommy makeover procedure, which is intended to give women a new lease on life following childbirth.

For more information regarding the breast lift or breast reduction procedure, call or visit Amae Plastic Surgery Center and schedule a consultation with Detroit’s own Dr. Ali.

About Us: Dr. M. Azhar Ali performs breast lifts, reductions, augmentations and other plastic surgical procedures at Amae Plastic Surgery Center in Bloomfield Hills, Detroit, Michigan. Dr. Ali was recently named Top Doc by Hour-Detroit magazine and enjoys a 99% patient approval rating, making him one of the top plastic surgeons in the country.

© 2017 Millionairium and Dr. Ali. Authorization to post is granted, with the stipulation that Millionairium and Dr. Ali are credited as sole source. Linking to other sites from this document is strictly prohibited, with the exception of herein imbedded links.