Plastic surgery is often considered optional - done strictly for aesthetic reasons. Still it can have a positive, life-changing impact upon patients whose self-esteem and confidence has taken a hit due to genetics, facial trauma, or the ravages of aging. Plastic surgery can have an even greater impact on children suffering from facial deformities and women who sustain facial injuries as a result of domestic violence. The organization, FACE TO FACE, was created to make a difference in people's lives through much-needed plastic surgery.
FACE TO FACE is the humanitarian arm of the Educational and Research Foundation for the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS Foundation). Medical supplies and equipment are donated to the organization. Facial plastic surgeons and other medical personnel travel all over the world - sometimes for two weeks at a time - generously donating their time and expertise. Still donations are needed from bighearted individuals and charitable organizations. These funds are used to purchase medical supplies and equipment, to offset hospital costs in host countries, and to develop teaching materials.
FACE TO FACE International
FACE TO FACE International makes education and support an integral part of its program. Surgeons from all over the world work closely with local medical personnel to manage an individual's care. Surgical techniques are demonstrated and case analysis is exchanged. This contributes to the long-term success of the program.
International primarily helps children in other countries abandoned due to facial deformities caused by birth or trauma. To date, Face to Face has traveled to Belize, China, Croatia, Philippines, Russia, and Vietnam.
FACE TO FACE: The National Domestic Violence Project
Victims of domestic violence often bear physical scars. Healing visible scars and facial trauma help victims begin to heal deep emotional scars as they recover from this traumatic experience. The AAFPRS takes a stand against domestic violence by helping victims break the cycle of violence. The foundation also helps victims of domestic violence to increase self-esteem and rebuild their lives by addressing physical damage.
FACE TO FACE has formed a partnership with the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV) - the umbrella group for the majority of shelters in the U.S. - to empower the victims of domestic violence. FACE TO FACE works closely with local shelters to ensure each individual gets help healing emotional wounds. These deep, emotional scars must be addressed prior to any surgery designed to erase physical scars. Through FACE TO FACE: The National Domestic Violence Project, eligible individuals are able to receive no-cost consultation and surgery to repair facial trauma.
Donations to Face to Face are tax deductible. Your generous donation to this worthy organization can make a difference in the lives of women and children in desperate need of plastic surgery here in the United States and abroad. To learn more about this life-changing project, visit FACEtoFACESurgery.org today.
Are you in search of a facial plastic surgeon in the Dallas - Fort Worth area? Contact the office of Dr. Karsan - a board-certified facial plastic surgeon and volunteer with FACE TO FACE – at 214-646-8777.
We are unhappy with some aspect of our outer appearance. It's human nature. The feature we find displeasing may not be altered as easily as hair color. Perhaps it is the nose we were born with or the effects of time on our skin. Dissatisfaction with outer appearance can greatly impact self-image and self-esteem. A negative self-image - the perception or mental image we have of ourselves - has a profound effect on our approach to life.
When we have a positive self-image our self-esteem increases. We are more confident. This confidence makes us more effective in our personal and professional lives. A negative self-image can have the complete opposite effect. Self-consciousness about our personal appearance results in a lack of confidence. A lack of confidence can have a debilitating effect on our ability to function successfully in the workplace and within social spheres.
Facial plastic surgery and non-surgical anti-aging procedures bring a patient's inner beauty to the surface. Even the smallest changes - tighter, firmer skin or a decrease in the appearance of laugh lines - can boost self-image immeasurably. Increased self-confidence extends to every area of our lives - our work and relationships. When we are confident about our self-image others can sense this. They are drawn to it. Self-confidence is a trait companies seek in potential employees. Both men and women find self-confidence to be attractive in a potential mate.
Facial plastic surgery and non-surgical procedures can have a dramatic effect. A more youthful, rejuvenated look can improve self-image and boost self-esteem by bringing our outer appearance into closer alignment with the inner beauty we possess. Yet, cosmetic surgery is not a panacea for all of life's problems.
If you are considering facial plastic surgery or non-surgical anti-aging treatments (Botox®, Juvéderm®, liquid lift) give careful thought to what you hope to achieve. Work with an ethical facial plastic surgeon to set realistic expectations for your final results. As a facial plastic surgeon I have been privileged to help my clients transform their outer appearance in a way that allows their inner beauty to shine through. It is thrilling to see the improvement in their self-confidence and quality of life.
Contact Dr. Karsan, a qualified plastic surgeon, at 214-646-8777 to request a personal consultation to discuss how plastic facial surgery and non-surgical anti-aging procedures can do the same for you.
The earlobe is a delicate part of the face which is often overlooked. Yet when there is an anomaly - like a stretched or torn ear lobe - it becomes quite noticeable. Are your ear lobes stretched or hanging lower than they did when you were younger? This is usually the result of one of two causes: aging or wearing heavy earrings.
Just as our face changes with age, so do our ear lobes. The earlobes can become elongated and saggy as we lose collagen and elasticity in our skin. The earlobes are often overlooked when we apply sunscreen. Yet the skin of the earlobes is subject to the same sun exposure as our faces. This loss of elasticity and constant sun exposure can lead to saggy, elongated earlobes with fine wrinkling on the surface.
Jewelry can enhance an outfit or reveal hints of our personality. However large, heavy earrings can cause damage to the earlobe over time. Heavy earrings weigh the earlobe down. The earlobe becomes stretched and begins to sag. In some cases very heavy jewelry can lead to tearing of the earlobe.
Are your earlobes lengthened due to aging or heavy jewelry? Lobuloplasty is a simple cosmetic procedure than will rejuvenate your earlobes and restore a balanced, pleasing look.
What is Lobuloplasty?
Ear lobe reduction surgery - also known as lobuloplasty - surgically reduces the length of the earlobe. The procedure is performed by a qualified facial plastic surgeon. The facial plastic surgeon will make an incision and remove a small wedge from the earlobe. The sections of the earlobe are brought together and sutured to repair the gap. The finished result is a rejuvenated earlobe of ideal length and shape.
Earlobe reduction surgery can be performed as an isolated procedure or in combination with a facelift. As an isolated procedure, ear reduction surgery can be performed in about 30-minutes in your doctor's office under local anesthesia.
Would you like to restore your earlobes to an ideal length? Call 214-646-8777 to schedule an initial consultation with AAFPRS certified facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Karsan, to discuss how lobuloplasty can rejuvenate your earlobes and restore a more balanced, youthful appearance.
We take the size and shape of our ears for granted. Children born with outstanding ears (or ears that protrude more than 20 degrees away from the head) are seldom able to forget the size and shape of their ears.
Having ears not in proportion to the size and shape of the face and head often make children the victim of cruel teasing. Continuous teasing at a young age can lead to life-long issues of self-esteem. It can also impact a child's ability to adapt and succeed at school. It is recommended that protruding ears be corrected prior to the commencement of school to avoid long term psychological impact.
Many adults struggle their entire lives with self-esteem issues stemming from outstanding ears. Women often try to camouflage protruding ears with long hair. This limits their ability to choose a flattering style or cut. Men have fewer options for reducing the appearance of outstanding ears.
Are outstanding ears causing you or your child to feel self-conscious? There is a simple solution to reduce their appearance and restore facial balance - otoplasty.
What is Otoplasty?
Otoplasty is cosmetic surgery to change the appearance of the ears. This surgery is used to bring the ears closer to the head (often referred to as "pinning back" the ears). It can also be used to reshape the ears, reduce their size, or make them more symmetrical. Ear surgery can be performed alone or in conjunction with other facial plastic surgery procedures - like a nose job or chin reduction - to create esthetic facial harmony.
The key to a successful outcome for any facial plastic surgery procedure is good rapport between you and your facial plastic surgeon. A qualified facial plastic surgeon will examine the structure of the ears during your initial consultation and provide options for correcting cosmetic issues. Your surgeon will work closely with you to design a balanced, aesthetically pleasing final result while also creating realistic expectations.
An incision is made behind the ear in the natural fold where the ear is connected to the head. The placement of the incision results in a scar that is rarely visible. Excess cartilage and skin will be trimmed, if needed. The remaining cartilage is sculpted and repositioned to achieve symmetry and balance.
Permanent sutures are used to secure the reshaped cartilage in the desired position. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia combined with a mild sedative in adults and older children. Young patients may be put under general anesthesia. The entire procedure is typically completed in approximately two hours.
Is Ear Surgery Right for Me (or My Child)?
Carefully consider your reasons for electing to have ear surgery. It is important to have realistic expectations of what the surgery will accomplish both physically and psychologically. Adult candidates must realize the firmer cartilage of completely developed ears doesn't have the same sculptability as those of children.
Having otoplasty at an early age is extremely desirable. The cartilage is far more pliable in children. This allows for easier sculpting. The correction of protruding ears while young also lessons the impact of the psychological damage that can occur from intense teasing. Still parents must carefully consider their reasons for electing otoplasty for their children. This procedure should be selected because it is in the very best interests of the child.
Work with a qualified, experienced facial plastic surgeon to get the best results from otoplasty. An ethical surgeon with a good eye for facial harmony will work with you to achieve the results you desire - while offering realistic expectations for your surgery. For the best results select a plastic facial surgeon certified by the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, like Dr. Karsan. Call 214-646-8777 to schedule your initial consultation to discuss how otoplasty can improve your appearance.
Have you noticed that your cheeks are becoming hollow? This is caused by diminished volume in the mid-face and cheeks as we age. The loss of volume causes the face to look gaunt and haggard. The result is a severe, aged appearance that doesn't reflect your youthful vitality.
Whether you've lost cheek volume due to aging or were born with small cheekbones, a qualified facial plastic surgery can:
- Restore lost volume in the mid-face.
- Create fuller cheeks.
- Create more angular, chiseled cheek bones.
- Restore facial balance.
- Give you a fresher, more rejuvenated appearance.
There are two options for increasing volume in the mid-face or cheeks. The first option is to use injectable fillers such as Radiesse®, Juvéderm® or Restylane® to enhance the cheeks. Many patients get striking results from injectable fillers. This non-surgical option offers patients a temporary solution that can last as long as eighteen months, depending on the filler used. The second option - cheek augmentation - offers a more permanent solution.
What is Cheek Augmentation?
Cheek augmentation is a surgical procedure in which an implant is placed into the cheek through a small incision made at the gum line. A snug pocket is created directly over the cheekbone in which the implant will be placed. Optionally, the cheek implant may be secured by affixing it to the bone or soft tissue. The entire procedure can be completed in less than an hour. Cheek augmentation can be performed as a single procedure or in connection with other cosmetic procedures. Since the implant is placed through the mouth so there is no visible scar.
Select a skilled, knowledgeable facial plastic surgeon with an eye for creating aesthetic proportion. Cheek implants are constructed of silicone or other biocompatible materials. Implants are available in multiple sizes and shapes. An experienced facial plastic surgeon will choose an implant that will accommodate your unique facial structure and create the desired result.
Most patients experience minimal discomfort from cheek augmentation. They may experience some tightness following the surgery due to the additional volume of the cheek implant. Some swelling is also expected immediately following surgery. Your surgeon will provide you with a list of post-surgery instructions to ensure the best recovery possible.
Am I a Good Candidate for Cheek Augmentation?
- You may be a good candidate for cheek augmentation if you:
- Have lost volume in your mid-face or cheeks due to aging.
- Have hollow cheeks.
- Were born with small cheek bones.
- Want fuller, more youthful looking cheeks.
- Want to achieve aesthetically harmonious facial balance.
- Are considering other complementary cosmetic procedures.
- Need a more long-term solution than injectable fillers offer.
A knowledgeable facial plastic surgeon will discuss possible options and help you determine whether cheek augmentation is right for you. Computer-generated imaging can give you a better idea of the final results you should expect from cheek augmentation. If you want to restore volume in the mid-face or create a more defined cheekbone call the office of Dr. Karsan - a qualified, experienced facial plastic surgeon - to make a consultation appointment today.
Does your facial structure lack balance due to a smaller than average, "weak" or receding chin? A "weak chin" - one that is smaller or further back than the ideal projection of the chin - changes the ideal proportion of the face. A person may be born with a less prominent chin or it may be the result of facial trauma or bone loss due to aging. A weak chin can distort other features. For instance, a weak chin can make a nose of average size appear larger, a forehead of normal size appear larger or make the neck appear less defined.
There are two options for achieving a more balanced look. The first option is the use of injectable fillers such as Radiesse®, Juvéderm® or Restylane®. Injectable fillers can add volume to a weak chin. The results achieved with injectable fillers can be quite dramatic. This non-surgical option offers a temporary solution which can last from six to eighteen months depending on the filler used. The second option - chin augmentation - offers a more permanent solution.
What is Chin Augmentation?
Chin augmentation is a surgical procedure in which a biocompatible implant is placed over the bone structure of the lower jaw to enlarge the projection of the chin and enhance facial balance. This procedure can be used to create a stronger or wider chin. It can even lengthen the face. Implants are available in a variety of sizes, shapes, and materials. An experienced facial plastic surgeon will select the best implant option based on the desired result and surgical technique employed. Chin augmentation can be performed alone or in conjunction with rhinoplasty to acquire a more balanced look. It can also be used with liposuction of the neck to better define the neck or in combination with a facelift.
A facial plastic surgeon can perform chin augmentation using one of two approaches. An implant can be inserted through an incision underneath the chin or through an incision made inside the mouth. Silicone implants can be placed through a small incision underneath the chin. The implant is inserted directly over the bone in the lower jaw where a pocket is created to accommodate it. The procedure takes less than an hour.
Most patients experience minimal discomfort from chin augmentation. They may experience some tightness following the surgery due to the additional volume of the chin implant. Some swelling is also expected immediately following surgery. A garment or tape may be used to maintain the position of the implant during the period of swelling.
Chin augmentation is a relatively simple procedure. Still it is crucial to select an ethical, experienced facial plastic surgeon with thorough knowledge of facial structure and an eye for aesthetic balance. Patients can get a better idea of the final result of chin augmentation through the use of computer-generated imaging during initial consultation.
Am I a Candidate for Chin Augmentation?
If you want to enhance a weak chin and have normal function of the jaw, chin augmentation may be the right procedure to restore facial balance. Chin augmentation can be the perfect complementary procedure to other aesthetic surgeries - like a nose job, neck lift, neck liposuction or facelift. Call the office of Dr. Karsan - a qualified, experienced facial plastic surgeon - to make a consultation appointment to determine whether chin augmentation is right for you.
Do you look tired or sad even when you don’t feel that way? This may be caused by aging, heredity, or overuse of certain facial muscles. As we age our eyebrows descend. The outer brow descends at a faster rate than the inner brow. The muscles of the forehead work hard to correct this imbalance causing deep lines to form across the forehead. Eventually the forehead muscles are no longer able to compensate for the lowering of the brow. Certain inherited traits, stress, or over activity of the forehead muscles can leave younger adults with the same tired or sad look typically seen in older adults. A brow lift or forehead lift can reduce the effects of such traits or aging.
What is a Forehead Lift?
A forehead lift is a plastic surgery procedure used to reverse the effects of aging and gravity. An incision is made in the scalp, hairline, or temple. Excess skin and/or muscle are removed through the incision. The deeper tissues of the forehead are then 'lifted' to a level that is aesthetically pleasing and reattached. The skin and underlying tissues of the forehead are tightened giving the patient a more youthful appearance.
There are several approaches to the forehead lift. Your facial plastic surgeon will create a customized surgery plan for you during your initial consultation. Based on your unique facial structure an experienced facial plastic surgeon may choose one of the following four techniques to perform a forehead lift:
1. Coronal (within the hairline) - This is the most traditional technique for performing a forehead lift. An incision is made across the top of the head from ear to ear. The surgeon will manipulate the skin, muscles, and underlying tissue through this incision. A small strip of the scalp is removed and the skin is reattached. The hairline will be slightly elevated.
2. Hairline or trichophytic - This type is similar to the coronal lift. The incision is made directly in the hairline in a manner which camouflages it. Excess skin is removed and descending eyebrows are lifted without elevating the natural hairline.
3. Endoscopic - A few short incisions of approximately one inch are made behind your hairline. An endoscope with a tiny camera on the end is inserted in the incision. The surgeon is able to see underneath the skin and perform the forehead lift.
4. Temporal or lateral (side brow lift or partial brow lift) - This technique requires short incisions in the temple through which the outer brow is lifted. This technique will not elevate the hairline but it cannot be used to lift the inner brow. The results typically last 3 - 4 years, as opposed to the longer lasting results of a coronal or hairline forehead lift.
Selecting the Right Facial Plastic Surgeon
It is important to select an ethical, experienced facial plastic surgeon. A surgeon committed to helping you achieve beautiful, natural results will recommend the appropriate forehead lift technique based on factors like forehead anatomy, the degree of lift required, and the patient's preference. If the skin is pulled too taut it will result in a 'done' look or worse - a constant look of surprise. Request to see before and after photos of forehead lifts performed by any potential facial plastic surgeon. This will give you a clear idea of whether the surgeon's aesthetic matches yours.
Am I a Candidate for a Forehead Lift?
You may be a good candidate for a forehead lift if you are experiencing one of the following conditions:
- Deep, horizontal forehead creases.
- Furrows between the eyebrows.
- Sagging eyebrows which cause a tired or sad look.
A forehead lift can reduce or eliminate the effects of gravity and signs of aging. It is a viable solution for patients who feel their facial features do not reflect the youthful vigor and energy they feel. Find out if a forehead lift can help you to look refreshed and rejuvenated. Contact the office of Dr. Karsan, facial plastic surgeon, today and request an initial consultation.
Do your eyes look tired even after a good night’s rest or a relaxing vacation? Do you have persistent bags and puffiness underneath your eyes? These are typical changes experienced as we age.
The cheek or mid-face descends as we age. This forms a groove under the eyelid that makes us look tired. The supporting tissue and muscle strength of the lower eyelid decrease with age. This results in fat herniation that causes puffiness under the eye.
What is Lower Eyelid Surgery?
Lower eyelid surgery (lower blepharoplasty) can greatly improve persistent puffiness underneath the eyes that results can often result from aging. During lower eyelid surgery the fat herniation which creates unwanted puffiness underneath the eye is removed. A small amount of skin may also be removed.
Two common approaches are used to perform lower eyelid surgery. The first option is to make an incision just below the lower eyelashes. Excess skin, muscle, and fat are removed through the incision. Fat may be redistributed to eliminate bulges or puffiness. Muscle laxity may also be corrected. The placement of the incision allows the scar to heal inconspicuously.
The second option for lower eyelid surgery is to make an incision inside the lower eyelid. Excess fat is removed through the incision. This option leaves no external scar, but does not allow for the removal of excess skin. A laser can be used in combination with this method to tighten the skin of the lower eyelid.
Selecting the Right Facial Plastic Surgeon for Lower Eyelid Surgery
Beautiful, natural results can be achieved with lower eyelid surgery. Finding an experienced facial plastic surgeon is the first step to getting the results you want. Look for a plastic surgeon with an excellent knowledge of the anatomy and an ideal aesthetic that closely matches yours.
An experienced facial plastic surgeon understands the intricate function of the lower eyelid. She will select the proper technique for your unique facial structure and remove just the right amount of fat. This is essential. Removing too much fat will leave the eyes looking hollow and almost skeletal. Preserving the right amount of skin, muscle, and fat will preserve proper function and give you a natural, refreshed look.
Your eyes play a significant role in the overall look of your face. Chronically puffy, tired-looking eyes can considerably age your face and mask your youth and vitality. Lower eyelid surgery – performed by a highly competent, experienced facial plastic surgeon – will leave you looking fresher, re-energized.
Learn how lower eyelid surgery can rejuvenate your look. Call Dr. Karsan, an ethical plastic surgeon, at 214-646-8777 to schedule your personal consultation today.
Is your face beginning to show visible signs of aging? Unfortunately, our faces display the first noticeable signs of aging. Perhaps you looked in the bathroom mirror one morning and the face staring back at you no longer reflected the youthful energy and vitality you feel. It seems the changes happened overnight. Yet the aging process is gradual.
Over time the effects of gravity, a loss of volume, relaxation of the supportive tissues and loss of collagen negatively impact facial features and create the formation of:
- Jowls - The slack tissue at or above the jawlins
- Neck bands - A combination of saggy, excess skin, and a platysma muscle that becomes thick and cord-like can create the appearance of bands or deep creases that run from the jaw to the chest
- Double chin - Loose skin and subcutaneous fat underneath the chin create the appearance of a second chin.
- Flabby cheeks.
- Nasolabial grooves - Folds around the nose.
- Marionette grooves - Folds or a depression around the mouth.
These visible signs of aging can make us look considerably older. A surgical facelift can rejuvenate the overall appearance of your face, noticeably reduce the signs of aging, and leave you looking more refreshed.
What is a Facelift?
A facelift is a plastic surgery procedure used to remove excess skin and localized collections of fat. Underlying support is reinforced and tightened. The skin and tissues of the face and neck are repositioned. A cosmetic facelift repositions fallen cheek mounds, softens nasolabial grooves, and creates a smooth jaw line and more defined neck.
What Results Should I Expect?
A cosmetic facelift reverses the effects of gravity and aging. The folds, creases, and wrinkles that age our faces are eliminated or substantially reduced. This gives the face a more youthful, refreshed appearance.
The procedure can make you look five to fifteen years younger depending on your age, facial structure, and level of skin elasticity. As a facial plastic surgeon I focus on giving patients a natural, balanced, appearance that makes them look refreshed and rejuvenated rather than "done."
Beautiful, natural results from plastic facial surgery begin with a comprehensive pre-operative consultation. An assessment of your unique facial structure, elasticity of skin, and extent of facial wrinkles and folds is made during the physical examination. A surgical plan is then customized to your individual needs. This includes details like the surgical technique that will be used; the location, design, and extent of the incision; and the direction of the lift.
Am I a Good Candidate for a Surgical Facelift?
If you have jowls, neck bands, excess skin, deep wrinkles or grooves that are aging your face you may be a good candidate for a surgical facelift. A good candidate for facial plastic surgery:
- Has realistic expectations for the procedure and recovery.
- Is in relatively good health.
- Understands the risks of surgery.
- Can comply with medical directives before and after surgery.
- Is emotionally stable.
- Understands the costs.
If you want to look refreshed and rejuvenated and you are considering a facelift contact Dr. Karsan, an ethical facial plastic surgeon, to schedule an initial consultation.
