How Can I Get Rid of a Double Chin?
Many patients at our Toronto practice visit Dr. Lawrence Tong in search of a way to improve the contour under their neck and eliminate submental fat in the region, which can create the appearance of a “double chin.” Whether a more defined neck profile is being inhibited by excess fatty deposits, stretched skin, loose musculature, or a combination of all these factors, our board-certified plastic surgeon offers a number of surgical and non-surgical solutions to achieve the sleeker, leaner aesthetic you desire. In general, chin and neck liposuction is considered the most effective way to reduce excessive fullness in the chin and neck region. Using a single tiny incision and a narrow surgical instrument called a cannula, fatty deposits under the chin are extracted, thereby creating a slimmer and sharper facial profile. This technique can be very effective if fatty tissue is the only component contributing to the look of a double chin; however, if a smoother neck contour is also being inhibited by horizontal neck bands, loose skin, or muscle laxity (platysmal bands), a neck lift is usually better suited to address these concerns more comprehensively. The procedure utilizes a number of discreet incisions behind the ears and beneath the chin to access the framework of the neck, allowing correction of excess fat, loose skin, and lax musculature. The neck lift (and its related procedures, such as extended neck […]
What are the Benefits of Brow Lift Surgery?
A brow lift, also referred to as a forehead lift, is a popular cosmetic procedure designed to achieve a younger-looking and rejuvenated brow and forehead region. Signs of aging can be pronounced in the forehead due to factors such as smoking, excessive sun exposure, and the formation of wrinkling from repeated facial expressions. As a result, many patients have ‘permanent’ horizontal forehead creases, vertical frown lines, and sagging brow skin that can yield an elderly appearance in the upper facial region. Furthermore, over time, the aging process causes the eyebrows to droop to a lower position, causing excess skin to descend into the eyelids (especially laterally), creating a look of stress, anger, or constant tiredness. For patients in Toronto and surrounding areas seeking to address signs of aging in the forehead and brow region, plastic surgeon Lawrence Tong, MD offers brow lift surgery to resolve these concerns and achieve a refreshed, natural-looking outcome. The procedure is designed to (i) alleviate and tighten lax skin in the forehead, (ii) smooth horizontal forehead wrinkles and “frown lines” between the eyebrows, and (iii) elevate the brows to a more pleasing and youthful position. Dr. Tong typically utilizes the endoscopic brow lift technique, which employs specialized surgical instruments via shorter incisions than a traditional ‘open’ approach. This results in a less invasive surgery with a shorter recovery period and lesser risk of complications when […]
Combining Eyelid and Brow Lift Surgery
As the brow often ages in conjunction with the eyelids, patients who exhibit signs of facial aging in the upper face frequently opt to combine the blepharoplasty (eyelid lift) procedure with a brow lift. Due to factors such as sun exposure, formation of facial expressions, genetics, and the natural aging process, the eyes and forehead typically age at an accelerated pace when compared to other facial features. Skin in the eyelids and brow starts to loosen and sag, eyebrows often droop to create the appearance of persistent fatigue, and horizontal forehead creases and “crow’s feet” around the corners of the eyes begin to develop. Together, these aesthetic concerns can compromise a youthful, well-rested facial appearance. While each surgery is designed to achieve different goals, undergoing both an eyelid lift and a brow lift simultaneously can provide far-reaching facial rejuvenation in one operation. Eyelid surgery can be performed on the upper and/or lower eyelids depending on your needs. This procedure is designed to remove and tighten excess eyelid skin, smooth wrinkled skin around the eyes, and remove and/or reposition fatty deposits to correct the appearance of puffy or baggy eyelids. In contrast, brow lift surgery is focused on improving the forehead and brow position. The eyebrows are elevated to a more youthful and rejuvenated position, while lax forehead skin is tightened and horizontal forehead wrinkles are made smooth. The frown lines […]
What Surgical Options Do I Have for a Chin Implant?
Patients may desire a chin implant for a variety of reasons, such as achieving a more prominent chin, improving their overall facial proportions and shape, or reducing the appearance of jowls. With chin implant surgery, Dr. Lawrence Tong can enhance the size and shape of the chin for a more balanced, and natural-looking appearance. Considering the unique cosmetic goals of each patient, Dr. Tong customizes each chin implant procedure to meet his or her needs. Chin implants of different sizes and shapes are used to increase the forward projection of the chin, the width, as well as the shape. Some implants provide a more ‘square’ jawline, while some create a sharper, ‘heart shaped’ appearance. The dimensions and applications of any specific implant will be thoroughly discussed during the initial consultation, and ‘sizers’ are used to give patients an idea of how the final results may look. Furthermore, Dr. Tong can provide a digital simulation of your chin implant surgery by using the Vectra 3D imaging system. There is no extra cost for the simulation, and it only takes a few minutes to complete in his office. In addition to the implant size and shape, the surgical method used during the procedure is important to consider. When the surgical incision is placed inside of the mouth (intra oral approach), there is no external scarring. However, with this method, the placement of […]
What Age Is Best for a Facelift?
Since facial aging occurs at different rates for different people, there is no “best” age for a facelift. A person may look ‘older’ than their true age; therefore, the visibility of signs of aging is more important than chronological age when evaluating a patient. Variables such as sun exposure, environmental factors, smoking habits, ethnicity, and genetics can all accelerate or slow facial aging. In general, a patient with prominent signs of aging is more likely to benefit from a facelift, while patients with lesser signs of aging may benefit from smaller procedures. A facelift is often used to tighten loose skin of the face and neck, plump up hollowed cheeks, remove fat beneath the chin, or correct “bands” on the neck that result from muscle laxity. Patients who exhibit these common signs of aging are often good candidates for a facelift, regardless of their actual age. As an alternative to the traditional facelift, a mini facelift is a less extensive surgical option compared to a full facelift. This procedure elevates the position of the cheeks, improves the definition of the jawline, and smooths nasolabial folds or marionette lines. It does not improve the neck to any significant extent. For patients seeking a less dramatic change, or patients who are not in need of neck rejuvenation, a mini facelift may be an ideal solution. In many cases, mini facelift patients are […]
Micro + Peel
A micro and a light to medium chemical peel can be done in the same appointment. This treatment is not best for over sensitive or thin skin. Both micro and peels exfoliate the skin, this could be too harsh and irritate some skin types. It is best to start with either one treatment or the other to see how skin responds before considering the combined treatment. The micro will happen after the cleansing in this combined treatment. It will act as our first form of exfoliation, leaving a slight pink tone to the skin, concentrating on the top layer which consists of the dead skin cells. This will physically remove these cells and allow the chemical peel to work at the deeper layers of the skin. The chemical peel will be preformed after the micro. It is common to feel the peel a bit more intensely when the micro was preformed first as the top layer of cells has been removed. However the peel should still be comfortable and can be customized for the skin. Warmth, tingling, and itching are all common sensations experienced during a peel. Since the peel is able to work deeper in the skin this can provide better results then either treatment done alone. Thick, course, and congested skin can also greatly benefit form the combined treatment allowing a deep cleanse and exfoliation when the individual […]
How Long Do Results Last After Facelift Surgery?
A facelift is designed to address common signs of the natural aging process that can affect both the face and neck. By eliminating excess skin, repositioning facial fat to address volume loss in the cheeks, and removing excess fat beneath the chin, our plastic surgeon can help patients attain a more youthful appearance. While the benefits of a facelift are clear to most women and men, many prospective patients naturally wonder how long they can expect these results to last. After a facelift, patients can enjoy smoother skin, fuller cheeks, a sleeker jawline, and reduced signs of aging in the neck. These changes can make a patient look years younger, but a facelift cannot halt the natural aging process. The results of a facelift are considered to be long-lasting, and most patients would see little benefit from having another facelift for at least 7-10 years following surgery. It is also important to keep in mind that beyond 10 years, a patient would still have a more youthful appearance than if they never had a facelift at all. To prolong the results of a facelift, Dr. Tong advises taking the necessary precautions to avoid excessive sun exposure and tobacco products. Patients should also strive to maintain a relatively stable weight. Individuals who eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and wear daily sunscreen go a long way towards keeping their skin looking […]
Microdermabrasion vs Chemical Peel
Microdermabrasion (micro) and light-medium chemical peels (peels) are both very common forms of exfoliation. It’s important to know the benefits of both before deciding what might be best for you. Both are similar in price and can be used on a range of skin types. Micro is a form of physical exfoliation. In this case that means the dead skin cells are physically removed from the skin through the use of abrasive crystals. The treatment head controls the delivery of the crystals, thus controlling the strength of the abrasion. Micro works primarily on the skin’s surface and can help to improve the look of fine lines, wrinkles, uneven pigment, and uneven skin texture. Treatment can be customized for a majority of skin types; however, due to the physical abrasion of micro it can be too harsh for some sensitive skin types. A light-medium chemical peel is a form of chemical exfoliation. The peel loosens dead skin cells allowing them to be removed. Different acids can be used and combined to treat a range of skin concerns and customized in strength for the individual. Peels not only exfoliate the surface of the skin but can help to treat fine lines, wrinkles, pigment, uneven skin texture, pour size and oil production. Peels also help to stimulate collagen in the skin. There are light chemical peels which can be used on a sensitive […]
Starting Young
As the rate of skin cancer has increased it is very important to stay educated about sun safety and begin at an early age. It is key to educate children about the importance of sun care. The goal to enforcing good sun safety habits at a young age to make them aware and protected without scaring them. Lead by example; sun protection is important for everyone. Enforce the message by partaking in the same routine you are implementing on children. Be diligent; despite the weather be sure to stick to your routine of protecting all exposed skin. Ensure all exposed skin, even commonly forgotten areas like the ears, are properly protected. Be sure to re-apply throughout the day. Continue both your and your child’s education as new developments and statistics are available. Routines may change as your child ages and they take on more responsibilities. Another habit to begin young is checking one’s skin and moles frequently for any changes and new developments. Starting these habits young will allow them to develop throughout their lifetime and set a solid foundation of healthy habits regarding sun safety. -Kaitlyn
Retinol Misconceptions
There are many misconceptions about retinol. From thinning skin, to making skin very sensitive there are a lot of misconceptions which make people hesitant to use a retinol. Retinol can benefit a wide range of skin concerns when used properly. Retinol does exfoliate the skin, and does remove the top layer of dead skin. However, this process does not thin the skin. Retinol can actually make skin more plump by stimulating new cells. The top most layer of skin cells are dead and naturally exfoliated off. As this layer gets thicker with age skin looks more dull, and a product cannot penetrate the skin as effectively. It is recommend that an SPF is worn regardless weather you are using a retinol, other exfoliation products, or no exfoliation products. Retinol is known to cause skin irritation and discomfort. When used properly retinol can be very comfortable and beneficial for the skin. When beginning a retinol you want to gradually introduce it to your routine. A skin professional can tell you how often to apply a retinol when first starting out. Typically it is a couple times a week, working up to applying it more often. It is also best to begin with a low dose of retinol and work up to higher percentages as skin becomes used to the product. If retinol is not introduced gradually chances of skin irritation and […]