While more than 100 years old, dermabrasion has enjoyed a resurgence of popularity since the 1960's. The resurfacing technique has been further perfected over the last few decades. During dermabrasion, or surgical skin planing, the dermatologic surgeon freezes the patient's skin, scarred from acne, chicken
pox or other causes. The doctor then mechanically removes or "sands" the skin to improve the contour and achieve a rejuvenated appearance as a new layer of remodeled skin replaces the damaged skin. The new skin generally has a smoother and refreshed appearance. Results are generally quite remarkable and long-lasting. Dermabrasion is also used to treat pigmentation, wrinkles, sun damage, tattoos, age (liver) spots and certain types of skin lesions. The treatment may also be applied to select areas of deformed skin.

Before and After
Illustrations courtesy American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

The tumescent technique is a relatively new liposuction method that can reduce post operative bruising, swelling, pain, and blood loss. In the tumescent technique, areas of excess fat are injected with a large amount of anesthetic liquid before liposuction is performed. The liquid causes the compartments of fat to become swollen and firm or "tumesced." The expanded fat compartments allow the liposuction cannula to travel smoothly beneath the skin as the fat is removed. Any person who is a candidate for traditional liposuction is also a good candidate for the tumescent technique. Although the technique can be used on any area of the body, it is commonly used on areas that require enhanced precision, such as the face, neck, arms, calves and ankles. In addition to most people, Individuals who have large areas of excess fat may also be good candidates for tumescent liposuction.

Rhinoplasty, or surgery to reshape the nose, is one of the most common of all plastic surgery procedures. Rhinoplasty can reduce or increase the size of your nose, change the shape of the tip or the bridge, narrow the span of the nostrils, or change the angle between your nose and your upper lip. It may also correct a birth defect or injury, or help relieve some breathing problems. Rhinoplasty can enhance your appearance and your self-confidence, and it could change your looks to match your ideal. The best candidates for rhinoplasty are people who are looking for improvement, not perfection, in the way they look. If you're physically healthy, psychologically stable, and realistic in your expectations, you may be a good candidate. Rhinoplasty can be performed to meet aesthetic goals or for reconstructive purposes-to correct birth defects or breathing problems.