Southern Plastic Surgery - Blog

Posts for the ‘Educational’ Category

Southern Plastic Surgery’s Dr. David Whiteman was recognized by Allergan, the makers of the increasingly popular dermal injectable Botox®, as a Platinum Injector in the fall of 2009. Whiteman’s extensive experience administering the product garnered him the accolade and has also allowed him to further explore the added benefits of the product, beside wrinkle-reducing muscle relaxation, like migraine headache relief, and now, reducing foot sweating.

According to a recently published article in The NewYork Daily Post citing an interview from The Wall Street Journal in which an aesthetic foot surgeon details injecting Botox® into patients’ feet to minimize the amount of sweating and subsequent growth of bacteria contributing to many patients’ foot faux pas. The injections are a new procedure added to the recently coined, and aptly named, niche of cosmetic foot surgeries dubbed “Cinderella procedures.”

Botox® and similar competitor Dysport® work to temporarily (results typically lasting 4-6 months) block the nerve signals from the muscle into which they are injected. Originally, Botox® and Dysport® were developed as a way for patients to reduce the appearance of facial wrinkles around the eyes (periocular) and mouth (frown lines) contributing to an aged appearance. According to the published interviews, the injectables work similarly to temporarily block the nerve signals that cause patients’ underarms and feet to sweat when injected into the respective regions.

Dr. Whiteman carefully reminds patients that injectables are only a temporary fix for these issues and that ,because they are not the specifically intended use of the products, they should be approached with due caution. Additionally, patients should ensure that their prospective physician is properly trained to perform the injections (consulting only a board certified plastic surgeon is usually a good way to make sure of this.)

If you’re interested in learning more about the uses of cosmetic injectables or the other cosmetic surgery procedures Dr. Whiteman performs contact his office, visit his website, or subscribe to his blog.

Posted on August 2, 2010 12:40PM

Study Linking Younger Breast Cancer Patients to Stopping Treatment Early

A new study released by Columbia University reveals a connection between a patient’s age and the length of time they continue taking their breast cancer chemotherapy medications. The study shows that younger breast cancer patients appear more likely to stop taking their chemotherapy medications before the recommended time period has lapsed. Experts point to the fact that younger women may stop their medication as no outward signs of their illness persist after the first few years of treatment. There is also lifestyle issues associated with the study’s younger cohort: including the fact that many younger women are also mothers of young children. This fact often translates to a shift from patients focusing on their own health to focusing on the welfare of their children.

Dr. Whiteman stresses to patients that chemotherapy drugs, just like any other prescribed medication, should be taken as directed. Stopping medications too early can increase the risk of relapse, which can prove incredibly dangerous with such a serious illness. Dr. Whiteman is a valued member of the breast cancer awareness community in Atlanta: co-founding the breast cancer survivors’ group Life After the Fight and serving as The Sport of Giving’s (an Atlanta-based cancer awareness non-profit) Medical Director. Dr. Whiteman also devotes his surgical talents to breast cancer patients in performing breast reconstruction surgery for those patients who have lost breast(s) as a result of chemotherapy and radiation treatments.

At Southern Plastic Surgery, Dr. Whiteman works with patients of all ages to formulate individual plans for breast reconstruction. Because every patient’s case is different, the utmost care and attention to detail is paid to ensure that health and well being remain intact throughout the cancer treatment, surgery, and healing processes.

If you are interested in breast reconstruction or have questions concerning breast cancer treatment, please do not hesitate to contact our office. We’d be happy to speak with you.

Posted on July 12, 2010 5:15PM

The Use of Botox for Migraine and Headache Treatment

A new study suggests that Botox® may be useful beyond its’ cosmetic ability to relax wrinkle-causing muscles. In numerous examinations of both men and women, patients have noted a decrease in headache frequency after receiving Botox® for cosmetic reasons. Botox has long been used to reduce wrinkles, though its non-cosmetic popularity has begun to rise as well thanks to recent research.

Anyone who’s ever experienced migraines which originate near the eyes knows how terribly debilitating they can be. Extreme sensitivity to lights and sound, combined with a dreadfully painful headache, are just some of the classic symptoms of migraines. Although plastic surgeons do not typically inject Botox to treat migraines specifically, many Southern Plastic Surgery patients who have received Botox® for the treatment of wrinkles have been delighted by the fact that their migraines are a thing of the past.

If someone were to receive Botox® injections to decrease wrinkles, no additional injections would be needed to treat headaches. That means headache reductions are simply an added bonus to the primary effects of Botox® treatment.

It is important to note that, though the original study was done with specifically Botox®, Dr. David Whiteman has also seen similar results with Dysport® (a competitor to Botox®.)

If you’ve been thinking about Botox® or Dysport® treatments, please do not hesitate to contact our office with questions.

Posted on June 28, 2010 4:35PM

Dr. Oz’s Tips on Eating Fruit the Right Way

We have all heard sayings such as, “an apple a day, keeps the doctor away” and other friendly reminders about how including fruits in our diet is good for our health. But did you know there is a right and wrong way to eat fruit? With the help of the popular television personality Dr. Oz, Southern Plastic Surgery has compiled some tips about how to properly include fruit into your diet:

Only eat fruit on an empty stomach! You sometimes hear people complain that they cannot eat fruit because it causes them to bloat, have gas, or feel like they have to go to the bathroom. The real reason for this is that the food you eat before eating your fruit, ferments in your stomach and turns to acid. Once fruit comes in contact with the acid, it causes gas and bloating and prevents the fruit from being quickly digested; robbing it of the nutrients and health benefits it has to offer.
Know the right way to drink fruit. Make sure it is fresh juice and not from concentrate and avoid drinking juice that has been heated. And remember, even though fruit juice does have its benefits, the best way get the full vitamins and nutrients from fruit is to eat it whole!
Avoid cooked fruit. Once you cook a fruit, you rob it of the valuable vitamins and all you are left with is the taste.
Know the right types of fruit to eat.
- Apples: Rich in flavonoids and antioxidants, apples help to lower the risk of colon cancer, stroke, and heart attack.
- Strawberries: Fruit with the most powerful antioxidants, protecting you from free radicals, blood clots, and some types of cancer.
- Kiwi: With twice the amount of vitamin C that an orange has, kiwi is also a great source of vitamin E, magnesium, potassium, and fiber.
- Papaya: Has one of the highest vitamin C contents; Also rich in carotene which improves eye health.
- Watermelon: Contains glutathione which boosts the immune system, vitamin C and potassium. Also has lycopene (also found in tomatoes) which helps protect against cancer.
Be aware of the benefits of fruit and take advantage! Fruits can detoxify your body while simultaneously providing you with the energy needed for everything from day-to-day activities to strenuous exercise.

For more information about diet and exercise tips and healthy recipes, visit the health and wellness section of our website. As always, feel free to contact Dr. Whiteman’s office if you have any questions are wish to schedule a consultation.

Posted on June 14, 2010 10:12AM

Helping Women Reclaim Their Bodies After Pregnancy with Mommy Makeover Surgery

As most new parents will attest, having a baby is life changing. As most mothers will also attest, being pregnant and having a baby are also body changing experiences (some of those changes are little less welcome than others.) After listening to the stories of several post maternity patients, Dr. David Whiteman of Southern Plastic Surgery is now spotlighting his surgical skills with mommy makeover surgery.

While all mommy makeover surgical plans must be custom tailored to each mother’s concerns and health histories, Dr. David Whiteman’s mommy makeover surgery often consists of tummy tuck (or abdominoplasty), to tighten the abdominal muscle and/or remove skin that is stretched with the baby’s growth, liposuction of small areas of fat, and breast augmentation or breast lift procedures to remedy the effects of breast feeding and to restore mothers’ bodies to their pre-baby appearance.

As evidenced by his previous blogs, Dr. Whiteman is a major proponent of responsible, health-oriented life changes- not quick fixes. He understands the extreme pressure on new mother’s to instantly bounce back to their pre-baby appearance, but emphasizes the fact that major physical changes take time stating:

“It takes nine whole months for a baby to fully develop. Therefore, it is unrealistic to expect that reversing the effects from those changes could be instantaneous.”

Also important to note, mommy makeover surgery is only suitable for women who are done having children; as additional pregnancy could reverse surgical results. To schedule a consultation, call Dr. Whiteman’s office or visit his website to develop a plan to get you back to your pre-baby best!

Posted on June 2, 2010 7:45PM

Study Shows Rise in Number of Unqualified Practitioners Offering Cosmetic Services like Liposuction and Botox

It is not surprising that, in a down economy, people will be doing anything they can to keep their business afloat and continue to make money. Understandably, fast food chains will jump on the “value menu” bandwagon or nail salons will begin to offer two for one pricing – but what is the beyond the realm of understanding is unqualified medical practitioners who are offering surgeries they have no training for. Unfortunately, this is exactly what has been happening in the world of cosmetic surgery procedures, namely liposuction and the administering of injections like Botox® and Dysport®.

In a recent study, published in the April issue of the Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery journal, researchers found that nearly 40 percent of doctors offering liposuction in the Southern California area had NO specific surgical training. In fact, other than plastic surgeons, dermatologists, otolaryngologists (head/ Neck surgeons), and Primary Care Physicians were the top four groups providing liposuction. The study examined 1876 cosmetic practitioners in the California test area, and only 495 of them were trained in plastic surgery!

So, how can people get away with this? Well first of all, there is no law that makes offering these services illegal because no actual training in surgery is required by law. Second of all, injections and liposuction can technically be performed in a practitioner’s office; therefore, hospital privileges (which are only given to legitimate, qualified doctors) are not an issue. What consumers are left with are untrained/ minimally trained practitioners offering surgical procedures in less than safe conditions just to see a bump in their paycheck.

Luckily, there are things that you, as a consumer, can do to protect yourself. First of all, be weary of misleading practice names that are not supported and backed by a real doctor. You have every right to ask about your practitioner’s qualifications, so make sure that you do so. You want to make sure when getting any cosmetic or surgical procedure that your physician is board certified in plastic surgery, and not just general surgery – specific training in plastic surgery is the key to the best and safest results.

For more information on Dr. Whiteman’s qualifications, visit the Southern Plastic Surgery website. Feel free to contact our office with any more questions you may have!

Posted on May 3, 2010 2:38PM

Dr. Whiteman Cautions Patients to be Wary of Doctors Offering ‘Awake’ Breast Augmentation Surgery

A recent article in the NY Times discussed a group of doctors who are boasting the ability to perform breast augmentation surgery while patients are awake. This breast implant procedure is performed in the physician’s office and only requires local anesthesia – boasting lower costs and the ability to interact with patients during the actual surgery.

Traditionally though, and at the practice of Southern Plastic Surgery, breast augmentation surgery is performed in a hospital while the patient is under general anesthesia to ensure patient safety. While the “awake” breast augmentation surgery sounds like a good idea in theory, the safety and legitimacy of it has been called into serious question. Here are just a couple of reasons why I caution against opting for this kind of procedure:

• Performing operations while a patient is awake, under local anesthesia takes an amount of control away from the surgeon and is not conducive to the best possible results.

• Surgeries performed in a physician’s office instead of a hospital are not subject to proper accreditation or safety standards.

• If something goes wrong in surgery or if the patient becomes uneasy by the graphic nature of the surgery there will not be an anesthesiologist or hospital staff on hand to assist.

• Local anesthesia still makes a patient “out of it” – so they may request something like a size change during surgery that they would not otherwise ask for with a sound mind.

• Many people performing these procedures are not board certified or even trained in plastic surgery! (The article notes a non board certified doctor that teaches this procedure to other non-plastic surgery doctors with a two day course!)

• Just as many complications can arise from local anesthesia as from general anesthesia, but with local anesthesia you do not have the support of a hospital or specialist if such a complication should arise.

While some procedures are perfectly safe performed under local anesthesia, a procedure as invasive as breast augmentation is not (at least not yet anyways). You don’t want anyone performing a surgery as serious as a breast augmentation who has not gone to school to study plastic surgery; or who is not board certified by an accredited, third party medical board such as the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

Dr. Whiteman is double board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the Royal College of Physicians & Surgeons of Canada and specializes in cosmetic plastic surgery procedures of the face, breasts, and body. If you are interested in learning more about breast augmentation surgery, or any other cosmetic procedure, contact the office of Southern Plastic Surgery today.

Posted on April 19, 2010 5:22PM

Diet, Exercise, and a Healthy Lifestyle are Vital to Any Cosmetic Surgery Procedure Dr. David Whiteman Launches Health & Wellness Section to Southern Plastic Surgery Website

In every consultation, Dr. Whiteman tells his patients that he will do his part in enhancing their appearance with a cosmetic surgery procedure, but is careful to remind his patients that it is of utmost importance that they do their part to maintain the results. For ALL patients, that means maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Especially for liposuction, tummy tuck, and breast reduction patients, keeping up with regular diet and exercise is the only way to maintain their results. But even cosmetic surgeries of the face, patients must maintain their health – such as quitting smoking – in order to facilitate healing.

Because plastic surgery and healthy lifestyles go hand-in-hand, Dr. Whiteman decided to launch a health and wellness section to southernplasticsurgery.com. The health and wellness section will provide patients with diet and exercise tips including: Common Diet Mistakes, Tips for Diet Success, Hidden Calories in Foods, Healthy Snacks, and a feature on how to correctly read food labels.

The health and wellness section will also contain a section of healthy, delicious, and low calorie recipes. All of the recipes have been personally made and approved by members of the Southern Plastic Surgery staff.

Dr. Whiteman hopes that, with the help of the health and wellness section of his website, that all his patients will make strides towards healthy, fit lifestyles to keep them looking and feeling their best!

Posted on April 14, 2010 6:27PM

Male Breast Reduction Surgery Gains Popularity in England and the United States

For women, surgeries of the breasts have been among the most popular procedures in the plastic and cosmetic surgery world. In fact, breast augmentation surgery surpassed liposuction as the most popular plastic surgery procedure for the first time in 2008. But what may surprise you is that surgeries of the breasts are growing in popularity for male plastic surgery patients as well. More specifically, male breast reduction has become the fastest growing cosmetic surgery procedure in England and is gaining popularity in the US as well.

According to the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, there was an 80 percent increase in the total number of male breast reduction surgeries from 2008 to 2009. And in the United States, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons estimated a total of 18,000 male breast reduction surgeries in 2008 alone.

The popularity of male breast reduction surgery may be explained by the fact gynecomastia, a condition marked by enlarged breasts in males, is more common than one may think. In fact, gynecomastia affects an estimated 40 to 60 percent of all men – ranging from teenage boys to professional athletes! The solution to this problem, or male breast reduction surgery, is a minimally invasive and very reliable procedure – undoubtedly another factor contributing to its increased popularity. The procedure involves liposuction of excess fat and the occasional removal of excess breast glandular tissue to reshape the natural contour of the male breast wall and takes only a little more than an hour to perform.

If you are a male who is suffering from gynecomastia or is unhappy with the look and shape of their chest, male breast reduction surgery can be a realistic solution. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Whiteman today or visit our website for more information.

Also, be sure to check out the March issue of Best Self magazine! Dr. Whiteman will be featured as an expert on male breast reduction and liposuction in the Men’s Health Section.

Posted on March 22, 2010 2:28PM

Dr. Whiteman of Southern Plastic Surgery is Proud to Announce the Launch of ‘Life After the Fight’ – A Business Directory Committed to Supporting and Promoting the Professional Ventures of Breast Cancer Survivors!

After years of working with breast reconstruction patients and involvement on the board of The Sport of Giving, a local breast cancer (now all women’s cancer) nonprofit, Dr. Whiteman noticed an inspiring trend among these women. Becoming painfully aware that life is short, many survivors’ battles with the disease become a catalyst for them to start their own businesses and begin new careers that truly made them happy. Thinking of how great it would be to make others aware of these strong women and their new businesses, “Life After the Fight” was born.

Life After the Fight is a local business directory that ONLY lists the businesses of breast cancer survivors – an effort to promote and support these amazing women’s professional ventures as they move on with their lives. Through the forum of Facebook, Life After the Fight is also a way for these survivors to support and interact with each other.

We at Life After the Fight say that these businesses are built from the strength of the survivors that created them – so not only are you supporting breast cancer survivors, but your are getting access to and information on some GREAT businesses in the local area.
WE NEED BUSINESS SUBMISSIONS:

If you are a breast cancer survivor, or would like to submit a business on behalf of a survivor, you can either post your business information on the Life After the Fight Facebook page wall or submit the following information via email to lifeafterthefight@gmail.com :

• Name of your business/service
• A short description of your services
• Business phone number, email, and website

*Businesses submitted both via Facebook and email will be included on this Life After the Fight directory webpage.

*Business submissions are based on the honor system, please respect the fact that Life After the Fight is meant to provide information and support solely for the businesses of breast cancer survivors/patients.
Click here or read below to find out more about Life After the Fight. And don’t forget to become a fan of Life After the Fight on Facebook!!

We encourage you to suggest the page to all of your friends (via the ‘suggest to friends’ link under the default picture on the facebook fan page). The more people that know about Life After the Fight, the more we can support these survivors!

Posted on March 15, 2010 2:26PM

Contact Us

Southern Plastic Surgery
David M. Whiteman, M.D., F.R.C.S.(c)
3855 Pleasant Hill Road, Suite 370
Duluth, Georgia 30096
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Phone: 770.622.9100