Q. Tell us about yourself and your practice.
A. I have been here in practice in Birmingham for over 24 years. I have 2 boys who have grown up here and although my wife and I are originally from Minnesota, we enthusiastically call Birmingham our home.
When I first came to the Magic City, I was originally recruited as full time faculty at the University of Alabama at Birmingham assisting in the development of the Plastic Surgery Residency Training Program at UAB. I was there for 10 years rising to the rank of Full Professor. In 1995, I decided to enter practice in the private community and now have a facility located in the Inverness/280 area. I have a fully accredited operating suite where we can provide our patients all the confidentiality of a private setting with the safety equivalent of the hospital.
I am the author and/or editor of five textbooks of plastic surgery and lecture extensively at Universities and Plastic Surgery Associations around the world. I have been involved with Operation Smile International since 1987, serving on their plastic surgery advisory board and operating without charge on dozens of children with cleft lip and palate in many different countries. I am the President-Elect of the Southeastern Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons.
Q. Please explain the primary procedures performed by your practice.
A. As a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, I do extensive work in rejuvenation of the face and body, as well as injectables and laser, helping people to regain that fresh and natural look that the years, the environment and our precious little ones rob from us. My staff likes to say that we help moms become proud and happy moms, not just of their children but proud of themselves as well. We help grandmoms and dads look just as vibrant and young as they feel on the inside. It is quite amazing the transformation we see in people when they realize that they look as good on the outside as they feel on the inside.
Q. Are you certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery?
A. Yes, I have been Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery since 1986. This is the most important credential to look for in choosing a plastic surgeon. Beyond that, look for experience in the procedures you are interested in.
Q. Where will you perform my surgery?
A. I am able to perform all of my cosmetic procedures here at my facility in Inverness. We are certified by the AAAASF Certification Board and are committed to providing the safest care possible for our patients. Reconstructive procedures are performed at UAB Highlands, Brookwood or St. Vincents hospital.
Q. How many procedures of this type have you performed?
A. With over 25 years in practice, I have extensive experience in the wide range of plastic surgical procedures. New techniques are constantly coming along in our specialty and we make a point of staying up to date. We want to provide good advice and help patients sort out what works and what doesn’t.
Q. What aesthetic surgical procedures are performed to improve the aging face?
A. In recent years, we have concentrated our attention on minimizing scars in facial rejuvenation. There are many options to consider and each person has unique issues. For example, we have Liposculpting of the face. Along with fat injection, injectables like Botox cosmetic and the advances in Laser technology, this can prolong the need for more drastic measures to turn back the clock. We strive to get the most desired effect with the least amount of downtime as people cannot take lots of time out of their busy schedules.
Q. What is a chemical peel?
A. A chemical peel utilizes an acid to exfoliate or rejuvenate the skin. The strength of acid delivered varies across a broad spectrum from very mild to very strong. Some spas and medispas are performing them without the guidance and application by a physician. Certain concentrations should only be administered by a physician and can cause significant scarring if not applied correctly. The Laser technology currently available in our office is much more controlled as to how deep it penetrates the surface of the skin resulting in significant improvement of texture, quality and overall health of the skin. We conduct a thorough skin evaluation, skin typing, and exam in order to make a specific recommendation tailored to each patient’s needs.
Q. How should I prep my skin before the chemical or laser peel?
A. As with any resurfacing procedure, it is important to stay out of the sun 4-6 weeks prior to the procedure, as well as 4-6 weeks after the procedure. It is also important to have a good daily skin care program to nourish and help keep your skin healthy and glowing.
Q. How does BOTOX work?
A. Botox cosmetic or Dysport smooth wrinkles by temporarily paralyzing portions of the small muscles that create lines in the face. It is extraordinarily effective with a wide safety profile. We think it is possible to reduce the appearance of permanent lines etched in the face by starting Botox early.
Q. What is the recovery period for BOTOX?
A. Essentially, there is none. Botox is administered in small injections into the muscles of the face. There can be a bruise left behind due to the tiny capillaries in the face. It is best if you can stay off of any NSAIDS (Motrin or Advil) and Vitamin E prior to your procedure.
Q. What is liposuction?
A. Liposuction is the most effective way to shape the body. It is not a substitute for diet or exercise to lose weight. We have done virtually every technique of liposuction and prefer ultrasound assisted lipocontouring which helps create a smoother tighter appearance.
Q. What are the risks associated with liposuction surgery?
A. As with any surgery, risks include bleeding or infection or those associated with anesthesia. However, complications from liposuction are really quite rare. The main sequalae of this type of surgery is some downtime due to swelling and sometimes discomfort. However, the results can be spectacular and virtually everyone who has had this done is thrilled with the results. Again, this is an area where non plastic surgeons have begun to offer this type of surgery. Do your homework and make sure you are using an experienced body contouring expert plastic surgeon. |
