What Is Mohs Surgery, and Does It Leave Scars?

3 Minute Read: 

There’s no question about it: the word “cancer” is terrifying. And while any form of cancer is serious and requires immediate attention, the good news is that there are many ways to treat and stop skin cancer before it progresses to truly dangerous stages. 

One of the most successful treatments for skin cancer is Mohs surgery; however, many women and men do not fully understand what Mohs surgery is or how it can help treat skin cancer. 

Below, we’ll explore Mohs surgery by taking a look at how it’s performed and what you can expect (both before and after the procedure).

How Is Mohs Surgery Performed?

The Skin Cancer Foundation reports that over 3.3 million people are diagnosed with skin cancer every year. Luckily, most cases of skin cancer are treatable and do not cause serious health risks, as long as they are detected and addressed early. This is one reason why regular self-checks of your skin are so important. 

Mohs surgery is one of the most effective and trusted treatments for removing skin cancer. With Mohs surgery, the thin layers of skin around the cancerous tissue is surgically removed. 

Once this skin is cut away, it is examined to see if there are any signs of cancerous cells. If so, additional thin layers of skin are removed and examined. This process is continued until there are no signs of cancer in the removed tissue, which signals cancer-free skin. 

What Are the Benefits of Mohs Surgery?

In addition to successfully removing cancerous cells from the body (thereby stopping the spread of cancer), Mohs surgery is effective with preserving as much healthy skin tissue as possible. 

Because the removal of skin around the cancer is so small, Dr. Hung can remove only the needed amount of skin. This process allows you to keep as much of your natural, healthy skin as possible, which is a major improvement to older skin cancer treatments. 

Other benefits of Mohs surgery include the fact that this procedure is performed under anesthesia (meaning that you will not feel any pain during the procedure), and most patients only need one Mohs surgery procedure to be free of their skin cancer. 

What Should You Expect After Your Mohs Surgery?

After your Mohs surgery, you will likely have some bruising, swelling, and discomfort in the surgical area. These side effects should dissipate within a week or two, and over-the-counter medication can be taken to alleviate any pain you may experience. You will be required to wear a bandage over the surgical area for the first several days; this bandage protects the sutures and promotes healing. While it is important that you refrain from strenuous activity until you are cleared by Dr. Hung, many patients are able to return to work and many of their normal, daily activities the day following their procedure. 

One of the biggest concerns that women and men have about Mohs surgery is scarring after their procedure. Because Mohs surgery requires the removal of skin from the body, scarring is inevitable. However, the extent (size and visibility) of the scar is dependent on various factors, including the location of the skin cancer, the amount of cancerous tissue removed, and the depth of the cancerous tissue. 

The good news is, Mohs surgery removes the cancerous tissue only, meaning that the resulting scar will be as small as possible. 

Skin reconstruction techniques can be performed to repair the area. When the cancer removal was small, the wound can often simply be closed; however, when larger, a skin graft may be necessary. 

Want to Learn More About Mohs Surgery? 

If you have questions about Mohs surgery in Southern California, including whether you are a candidate for this procedure, please feel free to contact Dr. Hung at 626-432-5032 (Pasadena) or 949-574-8292 (Newport Beach).

This entry was posted on Tuesday, June 20th, 2023 | Posted in Mohs Surgery.

3 Minute Read: 

Congratulations — you’ve beaten skin cancer! That’s a feat all by itself and one to be celebrated by you and your loved ones. 

While your health is always the foremost priority, you may be left wondering about your reconstruction options following your skin cancer removal, whether it was performed using Mohs surgery or another removal option.

Even if your skin cancer is small (for instance, the size of a small mole), it can still leave a significant scar or open space (to account for cancer and a margin of healthy tissue). Because of this, reconstruction after skin cancer is available to address areas across your face and body.

The Damage Invasive Skin Cancer Can Do

Never put off seeing your doctor if you find a suspicious mole, mark, or discoloration. The sooner you receive treatment, the better.

Invasive skin cancer has penetrated deeper than the epidermis (top layer of skin), into surrounding healthy tissue.

Skin cancer lesions must be thoroughly excised (removed) along with a healthy margin of tissue to ensure no cancer traces remain in the area. Usually, no other treatment protocols are necessary.

Even though skin cancer can be easily treated if found early, it can spread, which may result in the need for more extensive cancer-related treatments.

Aftereffects of Skin Cancer Treatment 

Skin cancer treatment is life-saving. Always follow your doctor’s advice and actively participate in your treatment team. After all, removing the cancer and returning to good health is your priority.

When possible, an advanced technique called Mohs surgery is used to remove skin cancers. This minimally invasive procedure removes tissue layer by layer, pausing to examine the removed tissue for cancerous cells between each pass.

By removing the cancer this way, your surgeon can minimize the amount of healthy tissue removed. 

Occasionally, your surgeon may need a more aggressive removal method, resulting in a larger treatment area. This may require a more extensive form of reconstruction.

Regardless of the method used to remove your skin cancer, you must consider a reconstructive option. When the area is small, the skin can often simply be pulled together in a linear closure.

When the area is larger, you may need to consider more invasive reconstructive options like skin grafts.

What Areas of the Body Can Need Reconstruction After Invasive Skin Cancer?

Any area of the body can fall victim to skin cancer. Common areas that require reconstructive measures after cancer treatment include:

• The nose
• Areas around the eyes
• The lips
• The ears
• Anywhere on the scalp
• Anywhere on the extremities

Any place you have skin can develop skin cancer; however, areas exposed to the sun are more prone to cancer than areas usually hidden under clothing or hair.

How to Find a GREAT Reconstructive Plastic Surgeon

Finding the ideal reconstructive plastic surgeon takes just a few simple but important steps.

Look for a reconstructive surgeon who:

• Specializes in post-cancer plastic surgery
• Is board-certified in Mohs skin cancer surgery
• Can offer testimonials from previous patients who have had surgery at their center
• Is ready to answer all your questions and sit down with you for a consultation

Dr. Vincent Hung is highly experienced in Mohs surgery, skin reconstruction, and cosmetic surgery. With him, you can feel assured that your cancer will not only be removed but also achieve cosmetically appealing results.

Your Health and Happiness Depend on the Right Plastic Surgeon

Don’t skimp on the above requirements. You will want to be as comfortable as possible with the reconstructive surgeon you choose.

Your happiness and health are closely linked. You’ve beaten skin cancer, and now it’s time to celebrate that success with a look you can be happy with. The right plastic surgeon can get you there!

To learn more about the treatments offered by Dr. Hung, call our Pasadena office at (626) 432-5032, our Newport Beach office at (949) 574-8292, or fill out our online contact form.

This entry was posted on Wednesday, May 31st, 2023 | Posted in Reconstructive Plastic Surgery.

3 Minute Read: 

Several facial procedures are available to help women and men achieve contoured and youthful facial aesthetics, with facelift surgery being one of the most common and popular of these procedures. 

However, one of the biggest misconceptions in plastic surgery is that, despite its name, a facelift doesn’t actually address the entire “face.” Instead, a facelift only corrects the lower and midface (from the cheeks down to the neck). This means that aesthetic concerns in the upper face, including the areas around the eyes and on the forehead, cannot be addressed with a facelift alone. 

To address these areas, a facelift must be combined with other facial procedures as a comprehensive facelift. 

Below, we’ll take a look at these other procedures to help you see why combining procedures may be your best solution.

What Does a Facelift Do?

Facelift surgery is a procedure in which wrinkles, fine lines, and skin laxity on the lower two-thirds of the face are corrected. With this procedure, the underlying facial tissue and muscles are tightened, excess skin is removed, and the remaining skin is pulled tight to give you the smoother, more youthful appearance you desire. 

Why Should I Consider Combining Procedures for a Comprehensive Facelift?

As mentioned above, a facelift only addresses the lower two-thirds of the face (from the cheeks to the neck). 

So, if you are looking to achieve a complete facial transformation, then a facelift alone is not going to be enough. 

By only correcting the lower and middle areas of the face, you risk creating an imbalance between your facial features, with a portion of your face looking younger and more rejuvenated than the other. 

Combining procedures into a comprehensive facelift can give you a more complete and balanced improvement.

What Other Procedures Can I Combine to My Facelift?

Blepharoplasty and brow lift surgery address age- and lifestyle-related concerns in the upper third of the face. 

Here are some details about each of these cosmetic procedures:

Blepharoplasty

Also known as eyelid surgery or an eyelid lift, blepharoplasty addresses cosmetic concerns in the upper and lower eyelids. 

Upper blepharoplasty can be performed to correct sagging skin in the upper eyelid, which can cause drooping eyelids and can even obstruct vision. Lower blepharoplasty can be performed to correct puffiness in the lower eyelid as well as dark circles and bags under the eyes. 

Some patients choose to combine upper and lower eyelid surgeries to achieve more youthful eyelids that help to highlight the natural beauty of their eyes. 

When combined with a facelift, blepharoplasty can help to accentuate your results.

Brow Lift 

Along with blepharoplasty, brow lift surgery (forehead lift) helps patients achieve a more youthful and balanced appearance when combined with a facelift procedure. 

Brow lift surgery addresses sagging skin in the eyebrows that can cause heavy and furrowed brows as well as wrinkles and lines on the forehead, which often make women and men look much older, tired, and angrier than they actually are.

In the End…

Facelift surgery is a fantastic cosmetic surgery if you want to improve the look of your face. However, if you desire a balanced and complete transformation to your entire face (including tighter, wrinkle-free skin), then a comprehensive facelift (which combines facelift surgery with either blepharoplasty, brow lift surgery, or both) is your best bet. 

After your comprehensive combination procedure, you can look forward to seeing your reflection in the mirror and smiling with confidence and pride at the face you see looking back.

Interested in Learning More? 

If you have questions about facial cosmetic procedures in Southern California, please feel free to contact Dr. Hung at 626-432-5032 (Pasadena) or 949-574-8292 (Newport Beach). 

This entry was posted on Tuesday, April 11th, 2023 | Posted in Facelift, Facial Rejuvenation.

3 Minute Read: 

Regardless of age, men who struggle with gynecomastia (male breasts) often feel self-conscious and embarrassed about their physical appearance. However, if you are a man who struggles with gynecomastia, male breast reduction can help you get rid of those unsightly “man boobs” so that you can achieve the chest appearance you’ve always wanted.  

What Is Gynecomastia?

Gynecomastia is ultimately caused by excess fat and enlarged breast tissue in males. Often, it is the result of a hormonal imbalance, where the body produces more estrogen than testosterone. This hormonal imbalance can be caused by natural changes in hormone levels (as often happens with males as they go through puberty) as well as the use of drugs, marijuana, and some medications. 

One of the most frustrating aspects of gynecomastia is that there is often no natural way to address this condition. Instead, plastic surgery is the only way. Fortunately, having your gynecomastia correction surgery performed by a trusted plastic surgeon like Dr. Hung can give you results that you can feel proud of.

What Are the Benefits of Gynecomastia Surgery?

In a recent study published in the World Journal of Plastic Surgery, it was found that nine of out 10 men expressed satisfaction with their gynecomastia surgery and results. The success of this cosmetic procedure is due in large part to the fact that gynecomastia surgery improved men both physically and psychologically. 

Here are some of the ways that gynecomastia correction surgery can help you.

More Masculine Physique

One of society’s qualifications for a masculine body is a defined chest, and the reality is that gynecomastia keeps chest definition from being visible. However, with gynecomastia surgery, the excess fat is removed from the chest using liposuction surgery and the unneeded breast tissue is surgically removed. 

This allows for a more contoured chest appearance that can help you feel stronger and more masculine.

Improved Confidence

Many men with gynecomastia find that they have limited self-esteem and confidence. This condition can cause men to refrain from participating in many of their favorite activities (like swimming and trips to the beach) and can even negatively affect their dating life. However, by getting rid of their more feminine-looking chest, men can find themselves with increased confidence and comfort in their body’s appearance. 

In fact, many men can’t wait to get out and show off their dramatic results.

Limited Visible Scarring

Men and women who undergo cosmetic procedures often worry about the resulting scar from the procedure. That is because any invasive surgery (like gynecomastia correction surgery) requires incisions to be made in the skin, which ultimately causes scars. However, one of the greatest benefits for men undergoing gynecomastia with Dr. Hung is that scars are minimized and kept as inconspicuous as possible. 

Dr. Hung uses a periareolar incision, which means that the incision is made in the lower half of the areola, below the nipple. While there will be a scar, it will not be noticeable, which means that people will not be able to tell that you even had cosmetic surgery.

Why Should You Trust Dr. Hung With Your Gynecomastia Surgery?

It is so important that you trust your plastic surgery to a cosmetic surgeon who is trained, knowledgeable, skilled, and successful. That is because you are trusting your health and the appearance of your body to that doctor. 

Dr. Hung is triple-board certified in Internal Medicine, Dermatology, and Plastic Surgery. This is an amazing feat, especially when you consider that there are only a handful of doctors in the world with these credentials. This means that you can look forward to achieving the results you truly want after your procedure with Dr. Hung.  

Do You Want to Learn More? 

If you have questions about gynecomastia correction surgery or any of the other procedures that Dr. Hung offers to patients in Southern California, schedule your consultation today by calling 626-432-5032 (Pasadena) or 949-574-8292 (Newport Beach). 

This entry was posted on Wednesday, March 1st, 2023 | Posted in Gynecomastia Surgery.

3 Minute Read: 

Many women are turning to Mommy Makeover surgery to restore the youthful look and feel of their pre-pregnancy figure. A complete Mommy Makeover surgery combines a set of different procedures, such as liposuction, tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), breast augmentation, and a breast lift, to help patients achieve the silhouette they desire. 

With multiple procedures involved, many are concerned about the recovery process.

A successful recovery from a Mommy Makeover is key to achieving optimal results and ensuring long-term satisfaction with the new look. As you plan for your procedure, it’s crucial to consider what you need to recover in a healthy and stable way. 

Here are a few tips to achieve the best possible chance for comfortable, easy, and successful healing.

Schedule Time to Rest

As your body begins to heal and adjust to the changes, it’s imperative that you give yourself adequate time to rest and recover. Therefore, go easy on your body; take small breaks and participate in light movements to prevent the formation of blood clots.

Getting enough rest allows the body to recharge and focus its energy on healing. Make sure you arrange help at home, so you don’t have to worry about housework or childcare needs, especially in the first few weeks.

Avoid Heavy Lifting, Straining, and Intense Exercise

It’s crucial to avoid any strenuous activity during this period to reduce the risk of complications. Further, pushing yourself too hard could place unnecessary stress on your incisions and repositioned muscles, leading to unsatisfactory results.

Maintain a Healthy Diet

Also, remember the importance of proper nutrition during your recovery period. Eating a well-balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables and lean proteins can speed up the healing process and improve how you feel overall. 

Hydration is also vital for metabolism and wound healing, so always have a bottle of water close by.

Avoid Smoking and Drinking Alcohol

Making a solid plan to cease smoking and drinking alcohol will aid your Mommy Makeover recovery. Smoking disrupts blood circulation, which can slow down the recovery process. Similarly, the components in alcohol can interfere with the healing process and put you at risk of infection.

Follow Incision and Scar Care Instructions

During recovery, patients need to follow their surgeon’s advice and post-op recovery guidelines. Part of the healing process requires proper incision care to ensure proper healing and minimal scarring.

To minimize post-surgical scarring and promote a faster healing process, patients are encouraged to consider massaging the treatment area and using the recommended high-quality topical moisturizers.

Attend All Follow-Up Appointments

Lastly, ensure you attend all follow-up appointments as scheduled. Staying on top of your post-op appointments allows your surgeon to monitor your recovery and assess your health and progress.

Important to note is that everyone recovers at their own pace. Therefore, be patient with your recovery, listen to your body and communicate any concerns with your surgeon.

Are You Ready to Take the Next Step Toward Regaining Your Pre-Baby Body? 

Dr. Hung and his professional team are committed to a high standard of patient education and personalized care and want to help you reach your body enhancement goals. Contact us today at 626-432-5032 or fill out our online form to schedule your consultation and discuss the details of your Mommy Makeover procedure.

This entry was posted on Monday, February 6th, 2023 | Posted in Mommy Makeover.

3 Minute Read: 

It’s an old saying that “Two are better than one,” and this can be absolutely true with cosmetic procedures. While so many plastic surgery procedures and cosmetic treatments can offer stunning results, the most dramatic transformations are often achieved by combining different procedures.

Our faces are the most visible parts of our body. This means that aesthetic concerns cannot be easily covered up or hidden. Because of this, there are numerous facial options (both surgical and non-surgical) to help you look and feel your absolute best. 

This blog will look at the benefits and details of combining trusted plastic surgery procedures for the face with the croton oil peel to give you the best results possible.

What Surgical Procedures Are Available for the Face?

Whether from age, sun damage, lifestyle, or life events, wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging skin can make you look older and more run down than you want. 

Men and women who struggle with these issues can feel self-conscious and even embarrassed to show their faces in social settings. And while you can hide yourself away, and miss out on important parts of your life in the process, surgical procedures can help you regain control of your facial appearance. 

Some of the most important and effective surgical procedures for the face are facelift surgery, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), and brow lift surgery (forehead lift). 

While a facelift addresses the lower two-thirds of the face (from the cheeks to the neck) and tightens the facial skin to offer patients a more youthful appearance, blepharoplasty and brow lift surgery help men and women achieve a more youthful and attractive appearance around the eyes and on the forehead. 

Any number of these facial plastic surgery procedures can be combined to give you a dramatic transformation.

What Is a Croton Oil Peel?

Chemical peels are not new cosmetic procedures by any means. However, different peels are being developed to better help patients achieve a more rejuvenated appearance and healthier skin. 

The croton oil peel is an exfoliating treatment that can be performed as a standalone treatment to address and correct facial wrinkles (especially around the mouth) and revitalize the skin’s health. 

For this treatment, a solution made of croton oil is applied to the skin. This oil exfoliates the skin (removes the upper layer of skin) to allow for newer and healthier skin to show. 

This exfoliation process happens gradually over the next several days. Not only is new skin now exposed, but the croton oil peel helps to promote collagen production, which is important since collagen is responsible for the overall health and strength of our skin. This means that the new skin will be tighter, firmer, smoother, and clearer. 

Why Should I Combine Surgical Treatments With the Croton Oil Peel?

While you can achieve fantastic results with just surgical procedures or just a chemical peel, by following your facial surgery with the croton oil peel, you will be able to target both the external skin and internal tissue. The increased collagen production can allow for long-lasting rejuvenation to your skin, which will only enhance the results achieved from the surgical procedure(s). In this sense, you will be able to achieve the very best results. 

If you choose to combine procedures, it is important to understand that you will not be having both the surgery and chemical peel at the same time. 

Instead, it is necessary for the surgical procedure to be completed and for your face to begin healing from the surgery before exfoliating the skin. Because of this, the croton oil peel will be scheduled about six weeks after your facial surgery. By this time, you should be returned to most (if not all) of your normal, daily activities, and your skin will be in a healthier state for the rejuvenation process of the peel. 

Interested in Learning More? 

If you have questions about cosmetic facial surgery, chemical peels, or combining these procedures in Southern California, please feel free to contact Dr. Hung at 626-432-5032 (Pasadena) or 949-574-8292 (Newport Beach).

This entry was posted on Thursday, January 12th, 2023 | Posted in Chemical Peels, Facial Rejuvenation.

4 Minute Read: 

While “cancer” is one of the scariest (if not the scariest) words out there, the good news is that with medical advancements, many cancers can be successfully treated, and this is particularly true for skin cancers. 

However, that doesn’t mean that your road to recovery with skin cancer will be easy or should be taken lightly. In fact, it means the opposite. 

It is of the utmost importance that you take your skin cancer diagnosis seriously and begin your journey toward health and peace of mind immediately. You need to understand the details of skin cancer, and the first (and often most important) decision you need to make is which surgeon you should trust with your cancer surgery. 

There are really three different options for men and women who have been diagnosed with skin cancer. Patients can have their cancer treated by a dermatologist, plastic surgeon, or surgical oncologist. Below, we will explore these different options to help you understand who you should trust with your specific cancer treatment.

How Is Skin Cancer Treated?

Skin cancer is treated by surgically removing the cancerous tissue and skin, and one of the most effective methods for treating skin cancer is Mohs surgery. Mohs surgery is trusted and popular because it only removes the affected tissues, preserving as much of the healthy skin and tissue as possible. Additionally, Mohs surgery can help ensure complete removal of the cancer. 

Mohs surgery is often performed by a trained dermatologist or plastic surgeon. For this procedure, your doctor will use a scalpel to remove the visible portion of the tumor, along with a very thin amount of tissue surrounding the tumor. The thin layer of removed skin will be evaluated to see if it contains any cancer. If it does, then an additional portion of skin will be removed and then analyzed. This procedure is repeated as many times as needed until the removed skin shows no cancerous cells. This process allows the cancerous skin to be removed completely without disturbing much of the healthy skin tissue.

When Do I Need to Contact a Surgical Oncologist?

While a dermatologist or plastic surgeon can often be used to treat skin cancer (especially basal and squamous cell cancers), there are certain situations when a surgical oncologist is required. 

These situations include more advanced cancer, including melanoma. 

For these advanced cancers, lymph nodes near the tumor may need to be removed to minimize the risk of the cancer spreading to the surrounding tissue. Your dermatologist or plastic surgeon will notify you if a surgical oncologist is needed for your specific treatment.  

Why Is It Beneficial for a Dermatologist or Plastic Surgeon to Treat Your Skin Cancer?

As long as your skin cancer is not advanced, it can be a smart choice to have your tumor treated with Mohs surgery by a dermatologist or plastic surgeon. There are several reasons for this. The first is that dermatologists and plastic surgeons who are specifically trained in Mohs surgery tend to place more focus on saving healthy skin while minimizing any unsightly results to your skin as possible. Additionally, a plastic surgeon can offer reconstructive options for skin that has undergone Mohs surgery. 

For skin reconstruction procedures, skin and cartilage grafts can be used to minimize the appearance of surgery, which can help you feel more confident and comfortable with your entire procedure. 

Why Choose Dr. Hung for Your Skin Cancer Treatment?

Dr. Vincent C. Hung is not only a specialist in Mohs surgery, but he is also one in only a handful of doctors in the world who is triple-board certified in Internal Medicine, Dermatology, and Plastic Surgery. 

With Dr. Hung, you are truly in the very best and most capable hands. Dr. Hung takes pride in each of his procedures and puts his patients’ health and results first and foremost. In particular, Dr. Hung has extensive experience in successful Mohs surgery procedures. Dr. Hung realizes that cancer is a scary ordeal for men and women, which is why he and his excellent staff at Pasadena Plastic Surgery Center , his Newport Beach office, and his Pasadena office are dedicated to helping patients through each step of their skin cancer treatment.

Interested in Learning More? 

If you have questions about Mohs surgery or skin cancer treatments in Southern California, please feel free to contact Dr. Hung at 626-432-5032 (Pasadena) or 949-574-8292 (Newport Beach). 

This entry was posted on Thursday, December 15th, 2022 | Posted in Skin Cancer.

3 Minute Read:

If you are thinking about undergoing liposuction to sculpt one or more areas of your body, you might wonder exactly how the fat will be removed.

First, let’s talk about the many benefits of lipo.

Why Should I Consider Liposuction?

Liposuction is a highly versatile cosmetic procedure that can remove stubborn, diet and exercise-resistant fat from almost any part of the body, including:

• Under the chin
• Upper arms
• Tummy & waist
• Back
• Hips
• Buttocks
• Thighs

Lipo permanently removes unwanted fat for a smoother, more fit appearance. However, it can’t prevent you from regaining weight in the treated areas, so a healthy diet and exercise are recommended after the procedure.

How Has Liposuction Changed Over the Years?

Liposuction was invented by an Italian physician in 1975 and was first performed in the United States in 1982.

Liposuction initially faced a somewhat bumpy road, as some unqualified individuals offered cheap liposuction services and delivered less-than-ideal results in addition to risking patients’ health.

The procedure uses a thin tube (cannula) inserted into the fat through tiny incisions in the skin. A medical vacuum attached to the cannula sucks fat cells from the area, but before this, the surgeon must loosen the fat to prepare it for removal.

Originally, the only way to prepare the fat was to move the cannula back and forth repeatedly, and this process is still in use.

Fortunately, techniques have improved significantly, and today, liposuction is one of the safest cosmetic surgeries. It is less invasive than other fat-reduction procedures, and more advanced options are available to prepare the fat for removal.

Advanced Liposuction Fat Preparation Options

While traditional liposuction still uses the cannula to break up the fat, this method often leads to more bruising and post-operative discomfort.

The following advanced liposuction options may result in an easier recovery and better results:

• Tumescent Liposuction Technique

The tumescent technique involves an anesthetic liquid being injected into the targeted areas of fat which causes the fat to swell and liquify, making it easier to remove.

• Ultrasound-Assisted Lipoplasty (UAL)

Ultrasound-assisted lipoplasty (UAL) uses high-frequency sound waves to loosen the fat before removal. The surgeon inserts a specially designed cannula to deliver thermal and vibratory energy deep into the fatty tissue to allow larger amounts of fat to be removed.

These advanced techniques help patients achieve better-looking results with less discomfort and faster recovery times.

How Else Can Liposuction Be Useful?

The benefits of liposuction aren’t just limited to fat removal. This technique is also useful when used for fat transfer. Fat is a natural augmenting material, and it can be used to increase volume throughout the face and body. Fat can also be used in reconstruction procedures to fill in divots left from Mohs surgery or other skin cancer removal treatments.

This multi-step treatment first removes the fat with gentle liposuction techniques, purifies the removed fat, and injects that fat into the desired body or face area.

Want to Learn More About Liposuction in Pasadena, CA?

If you want to learn more about your available advanced liposuction techniques in or near Pasadena, California, please contact our office at 626-432-5032.

Dr. Hung Also Offers Liposuction in Newport Beach, CA

You can also reach Dr. Hung at his Newport Beach, California, office to ask questions about liposuction or schedule a consultation at 949-574-8292.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, November 1st, 2022 | Posted in Liposuction.

4 Minute Read: 

Many women who decide to undergo breast augmentation are unaware of the complexities involved with this procedure. 

Because breast implant materials and surgical techniques have improved over the years, more options are now available. 

Educating yourself about these advances is wise before scheduling a consultation with a cosmetic surgeon.

Create a List of Questions for Your Doctor 

A consultation is an essential part of the plastic surgery experience. During this initial meeting, you’ll have the chance to discuss the breast implant’s size, shape, position, and material options, as well as where and how large the incisions will be. 

Most importantly, you’ll learn the best approach according to your body type and cosmetic goals.

While your plastic surgeon will have a list of questions to ask you about your goals and desires for breast enhancement, this is also the time for you to ask questions of your own. Some helpful ones might include:

1. Should I choose saline or silicone implants?

Breast implants are available in saline (sterile saltwater encased in a silicone shell) and silicone (cohesive gel encased in a silicone gel). There are pros and cons to both.

The benefits of saline implants are that they are usually less expensive and require smaller incisions (as they are filled during surgery), leading to less scarring.

However, saline implants are more prone to rippling, which is when the edges of the implant can be seen or felt through the skin. Additionally, some women feel as though saline implants are not as “real” looking as silicone implants.

Alternatively, the benefits of silicone implants are that they typically look and feel more natural — or more like actual breast tissue. However, women with silicone implants have a higher risk of developing capsular contracture, a hardening of the scar tissue that naturally forms around breast implants.

Leaks are easier to detect with saline implants than silicone, with MRI imaging typically needed to diagnose a ruptured silicone implant.

2. Do I have enough natural breast tissue to accommodate a large breast implant?

Women with very small breasts may not have enough natural tissue to cover a large implant and tend to do better with a more subtle increase in size. Placing the implants under the muscle (submuscular placement) is often a good option in these cases.

3. Will breast implants interfere with my physical performance?

If you are physically active, such as an athlete or dancer, you may be advised not to attempt a dramatic size increase, and submuscular placement may also be recommended. One exception to submuscular placement in athletes is for bodybuilders, as pressure on the muscles can displace the implants.

4. What happens if my breast implant ruptures?

If you have saline implants, you should be able to spot a rupture easily, as the breast will essentially deflate. If you see changes in the shape of a silicone implant, call your surgeon to discuss obtaining an MRI and exam.

In either case, you will need breast revision surgery to correct this complication. 

5. Will I still be able to breastfeed in the future?

If you plan to have children soon, now might not be the right time to have breast augmentation surgery, as pregnancy and nursing may adversely impact the quality of your results. 

However, if you plan to start a family later down the road, discuss these plans with your surgeon. Most skilled surgeons can preserve the milk ducts by using the appropriate techniques.

6. Why are gummy bear breast implants textured?

Anatomically shaped gummy bear, or teardrop implants, are made of a super-cohesive silicone gel and come in a variety of natural breast shapes. Texture is added to the shells of these implants to help prevent them from rotating in the breast pocket and becoming distorted. 

7. What are my breast implant incision options?

Depending on the size and type of implant you choose, the following incision techniques may be used:

• An inframammary incision runs along the bottom of the breast in the crease and can accommodate larger implants.
• A periareolar incision is made along the lower half of the areola and may conceal scars well, but is not always advised for patients considering breastfeeding in the future.
• A transaxillary incision is made within the armpit and is generally reserved for saline implants (since the implant is tunneled through to the chest).

Breast Augmentation in Pasadena and Newport Beach, CA

Dr. Vincent Hung is a board-certified plastic surgeon providing a wide range of personalized breast procedures, including breast augmentation in Pasadena, California. To learn more, call his office at (626) 623-7135.

Dr. Vincent Hung is also committed to customizing breast augmentation procedures for his patients in Newport Beach! Call us today at (949) 415-5195.

This entry was posted on Thursday, October 6th, 2022 | Posted in Uncategorized.

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Despite the name, facelift surgery does not address issues on the entire face. Instead, a facelift only helps to correct issues (such as tightening and smoothing skin) on the lower two-thirds of the face (from the cheeks to the neck). 

That still leaves the upper one-third of the face untreated. 

To address issues in the upper portion of the face (from above the cheeks to the hairline), either eyelid surgery or a brow lift must be performed. However, many patients do not quite understand the difference between these two procedures. 

While they are not interchangeable, both of these surgical procedures are extremely helpful in revitalizing a patient’s facial aesthetic. 

Below, we will explore these two procedures and discuss how each can help you achieve the facial look and feel you desire. 

What Is Eyelid Surgery, and How Can It Help You?

Eyelid surgery (known as blepharoplasty) is a surgical procedure that helps to correct cosmetic issues within the upper and/or lower eyelids, including wrinkles, excess skin in the eyelids (sometimes to the point of impairing vision), and the presence of bags under the eyes. 

Blepharoplasty is one of the most common and rejuvenating facial procedures available, which is demonstrated by the 325,000 patients who underwent eyelid surgery in 2020. 

One of the reasons for this popularity is the fact that blepharoplasty helps to correct issues around the eyes. And since the eyes “are the windows to the soul,” eyelid surgery can help your soul shine through even more beautifully.

You can choose to have upper blepharoplasty (which corrects issues in the upper eyelids), lower blepharoplasty (to correct issues in the lower eyelids and the area below the eyes), or both. 

• For an upper blepharoplasty, an incision is made in the natural creases of your eyes. Dr. Hung then removes or repositions the muscles in and around the eyelids and then surgically removes any excess and drooping skin. 
• For a lower blepharoplasty, the incision is made just below your lower eyelashes. Then, Dr. Hung repositions or removes any troublesome fat deposits and/or skin. 

Blepharoplasty can give you a more naturally beautiful appearance to your whole face, especially the area around the eyes. 

No longer will you need to worry about puffiness or bags under the eyes that make you look older and more tired than you actually are. Instead, wrinkles (including dreaded crow’s feet) can be smoothed and your eyelid skin tightened to help you see better and look your best.

What Is a Brow Lift, and How Can It Help You?

While eyelid surgery is relegated to the eyelid skin and the area immediately beneath the eyes, a brow lift (also known as a forehead lift) helps to correct issues (such as sagging skin) in the eyebrows and forehead, including creases in the skin, heavy and drooping eyebrows, and the presence of frown lines. 

With this procedure, either local anesthesia or general anesthesia is used. Once the anesthesia has been administered, a small incision is made in the target area. 

Dr. Hung then uses an endoscope (a small tool with a camera at the end of it) to remove or reposition any subcutaneous tissue, including moving the muscle to a more natural position. Lastly, Dr. Hung tightens the forehead skin to give you a more natural appearance. 

After your brow lift, you can look forward to a more youthful appearance. Many men and women in need of a brow lift tend to look angry and tired due to the lines and wrinkles on their forehead. However, you can expect to have a calmer and more settled quality to your entire facial aesthetic after your forehead lift procedure. 

How Can You Get the Most Out of Your Eyelid Surgery and Brow Lift?

While each of these procedures offers stunning and transformative results for your entire face, combining eyelid surgery and a brow lift is the best option for men and women looking for a complete adjustment to their upper face. 

And, for patients who are looking to transform their aging facial appearance, combining these procedures with a facelift can assure a brand new you!

Interested in Learning More? 

If you have questions about eyelid surgery, brow lift surgery, or any of the other procedures we offer in Southern California, please feel free to contact Dr. Hung at 626-432-5032 (Pasadena) or 949-574-8292 (Newport Beach). 

This entry was posted on Friday, September 23rd, 2022 | Posted in Brow Lift, Eyelid Surgery.