Plastic Surgery
Sentinel Node
The sentinel node procedure is a new technique used by breast surgical specialists to find out whether breast cancer has spread to axillary lymph nodes (i.e., lymph glands under the arm). A sentinel lymph node biopsy requires the removal of only one to three lymph nodes for close review by a pathologist. If the sentinel nodes do not contain tumor (cancer) cells, this may eliminate the need to remove additional lymph nodes in the axillary area.
Early research on this technique indicates that sentinel lymph node biopsy may be associated with less pain and fewer complications than standard axillary dissection.
Breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure to restore the appearance of a breast for women who have had a breast removed (mastectomy) to treat breast cancer. New medical techniques and devices have made it possible for surgeons to create a breast that can come close in form and appearance to matching a natural breast. For most mastectomy patients, breast reconstruction dramatically improves their appearance and quality of life following surgery.
No-Scar Facelift
A classical facelift separates the skin from the underlying tissue and pulls this skin upwards and backwards, removing the excess. Today most surgeons perform a modification of these procedures and tailor the surgery to the needs of the patient. New highly successful techniques that leave no scar behind the ear are becoming common.
Cohesive Gel Implants
A new form of silicone gel breast implants that maintain their shape, as opposed to non-form stable filler like saline or standard silicone gel, which are subject to the forces of gravity. Cohesive gel implants are molded into a distinct shape. Additionally, early studies seem to indicate that cohesive gel implants are less susceptible to leakage than earlier forms.