Welcome to Plastic Surgery Associates of Redding (PSAR), est. 1993, a place where technical skill, experience, artistry, and integrity come together for satisfying and lasting results.
You can trust in the Technical Skill of your surgeon.
Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and members of The American Society of Plastic Surgeons, you can be assured that your PSAR doctor meets the rigorous standards of training in all aspects of plastic surgery; fulfills continuous medical education requirements, and is regularly peer-reviewed for patient safety and ethical standards. Dr. Ball and Dr. Mendez have committed their careers to becoming true specialists in the art of plastic surgery.
You can trust in the Experience and Artistry of your surgeon.
With over 25 years each as plastic surgery professionals, both Dr. Ball and Dr. Mendez have abundant time and effort invested into perfecting their techniques to give attention to even the most subtle details in the art of Plastic Surgery. There is no substitute for experience.
You can trust in the Integrity of your surgeon.
With training in the full spectrum of plastic surgery, Dr. Ball and Dr. Mendez are able to offer counseling tailored specifically for you on the best techniques available to help you achieve your goals. As a patient, you can rest assured that your privacy will be carefully guarded. You and your family can also be confident that patient safety is of utmost importance to all of us at PSAR. We pride ourselves on distinguished patient care and quality results.
You can trust in the Lasting Results of plastic surgery.
Although products of modern technology promise a smoother, tighter, more youthful you, many enduring aesthetic goals can only be achieved through plastic surgery. The subtle, temporary effects of fad products often give you little for your money and too soon find you wanting again. So invest wisely in yourself, seek the counsel of a certified and experienced plastic surgeon to help you explore the more enduring possibilities/techniques for achieving your goals.
Dr. Ball
Mark D. Ball M.D., F.A.C.S. Providing plastic surgery care since 1986
Philosophy
"A plastic surgeon never leaves the operating room until he is satisfied with the results of his work."
About Dr. Ball
Dr. Ball was raised in Mt. Pleasant Texas, a small community where his father was the "Town Doctor" for 50 years. He has made Redding, CA his home since 1986 and was drawn to this beautiful area for it's proximity to the Trinity Alps, abundance of outdoor opportunities, and friendly small town feel.
Interests and Hobbies
Dr. Ball is an avid outdoorsman and enjoys backpacking, cycling, archery and shooting, among other activities. He has a unique hobby of handcrafting traditional wooden bows and arrows and has several in the works in his workshop. He and his wife Kelly are active with Shasta Shooters... and are often exploring the Trinity Alps. Dr. Ball is also gaining a reputation for his BBQ ribs and Dutch Oven Cooking.
Family
Dr. Ball resides in Bella Vista with his wife and three daughters (two of which are actually out of college and working in the Los Angeles area).
Community
Dr. Ball has been a member of Redding Rotary since 2001. Through this civic minded organization, he participates in environmental projects such as installing wood duck boxes and improving habitat, stream clean ups, eradication of non-native species that threaten our natural landscape.... Dr. and Mrs. Ball are also supporters of various local interests such as the Turtle Bay Museum, Riverfront Playhouse, the American Cancer Society, Healthy Shasta, animal welfare, National Public Radio, State and National Parks, local trails, and local businesses.
Dr. Ball is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is a member of the following professional societies
American College of Surgeons; American Medical Association; American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery; American Society of Plastic Surgeons; California Medical Association; California Society of Plastic Surgeons; North Valley Medical Association.
Education
Bachelor of Science - University of Houston in 1974. Medical Degree - University of Texas Medical Branch in 1979
Residencies
Resident, General Surgery - University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics; Iowa City, Iowa 1979-1983. Chief Resident, General Surgery - University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics; Iowa City, Iowa 1983-1984. Resident, Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery - University of Wisconsin Hospital & Clinics; Madison, Wisconsin 1984-1985. Chief Resident, Plastic & Reconstr. Surgery - University of Wisconsin Hospital & Clinics; Madison, Wisconsin 1985-1986.
Dr. Ball's teaching activities include
Clinical Instructor in General Surgery - University of Iowa 1979-1984. Clinical Instructor in Plastic & Reconst. Surgery - University of Wisconsin 1984-1986. Clinical Instructor, School of Medicine - University of California, Davis.
Dr. Mendez
Miguel A. Mendez-Fernandez, M.D., F.A.C.S. Providing the best in plastic surgery care since 1986.
Philosophy
"Perfection is the goal, but the patient is reality."
About Dr. Mendez
Dr. Mendez was born and raised in Mexico City, Mexico. He was in private practice in Houston from 1986-1990 and has been in private practice in Redding since 1990. Dr. Mendez served on the editorial boards of two plastic surgery journals and has published over 24 papers on plastic surgery subjects.
Interests and Hobbies
Dr. Mendez is passionate about good food and wine, and enjoys collecting antique German beer steins. His collection has grown to over 1,600 steins. He also enjoys hunting for unusual antiques or vintage collectibles in garage sales, estate sales, and antique shops.
Dr. Mendez's teaching activities include:
Assistant Instructor in Surgery - Baylor College of Medicine 1975-1978. Clinical Instructor in Plastic Surgery - Univ. of California, San Diego 1984-1990. Clinical Instructor Plastic & Reconstr. Surgery - Baylor College of Medicine 1986-1990. Assistant Clinical Professor - Univ. of California, Davis 1991-Present.
Dr. Mendez is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is a member of the following organizations:
American College of Surgeons; American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Inc.; California Medical Association; California Society of Plastic Surgeons; International College of Surgeons; International Confederation for Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery; International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery; Mexican Association of Aesthetic & Reconstructive Plastic Surgery.
Education
Bachelor of Science 1967 - Colegio Columbia, Mexico City. Medical Degree 1974 - Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico.
Residencies
Resident, General Surgery - Baylor College of Medicine; Houston, Texas 1975-1978. Fellow, Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery - The Methodist Hospital; Houston, Texas 1978-1980. Resident, Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery - Hospital General Dr. Manuel Gea Gonzalez; Mexico City, Mexico 1980-1983. Fellow, Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery - The Methodist Hospital; Houston, Texas 1983-1984. Resident, Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery - University of California, San Diego; San Diego, California 1984-1985. Chief Resident, Plastic & Reconstr. Surgery - University of California, San Diego; San Diego, California 1985-1986.
The PSAR Advantage
Cosmetic surgery is meant to produce lasting results, so choose your surgeon carefully. The human body is a complicated, interrelated canvas, and the ability to gracefully translate surgical procedures into a natural, aesthetic enhancement of your face and body requires a high degree of education, training, skill, and experience. Selecting a qualified and experienced Plastic Surgeon to help guide you through the numerous procedures and treatments available today is paramount to achieving the results your desire. The advantage of trusting your care to Plastic Surgery Associates of Redding (PSAR) is many-fold:
Proven Techniques, Lasting Results
There are many procedures, techniques and products in the field of aesthetic enhancement, and we pride ourselves in offering only the most effective choices available in designing a complete treatment plan customized to your specific goals.
We focus on You as an Individual
Each person is unique and deserves a plan designed just for them. PSAR is the professional office of Dr. Mark Ball and Dr. Miguel Mendez, who focus on individualized cosmetic surgery, not a production line of one or a few techniques.
We Do It All
Plastic Surgery Associates of Redding specializes in the art of plastic surgery. We also offer a full range of non-surgical options including skin resurfacing, injectable fillers and Botox. With training and experience in a full spectrum of surgical and non-surgical techniques, Dr. Ball and Dr. Mendez are well qualified to design a complete treatment plan tailored specifically to help you achieve the results you desire.
Board Certified Plastic Surgeons
Evaluating the qualifications of a surgeon can be difficult, and the many "bogus boards" that have been created further compound this difficulty. The gold standard for plastic surgeons is certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. This certification and membership in the American Society of Plastic Surgeons assures you that your doctor: Has a minimum of 6 years of surgical training, specializing in Plastic Surgery, following completion of medical school; Is trained and experienced in all plastic surgery procedures, including face, body, breast and reconstruction; Fulfills continuing medical education requirements, including standards and innovations in patient safety; Adheres to a strict code of ethics; Operates only in accredited medical facilities. Motivated by their commitment to excellence, Dr. Ball and Dr. Mendez routinely exceed their continuing medical education requirements to offer their patients the best blend of new technology and proven, time-tested techniques.
Distinguished patient care
Listening to our patients needs; offering full disclosure of options, expected results, risks, recovery, and costs; preparing our patients for surgery; intense focus on patient safety; post-operative follow up; quality results; and constant communication throughout are among the conscientious actions that contribute to the quality of care that you can expect from PSAR. Our patients are the barometer of our success.
Our Office
It is our commitment to be a source of genuinely useful information to assist you in achieving your aesthetic goals. We make every effort to create a friendly and comfortable environment and are happy to provide: A personal consultation with a surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons; Guidance as to what techniques, procedures, and products would be appropriate to help you achieve the results you desire; A complete cost quote prior to treatment; A wide variety of brochures and other printed materials to help you investigate your options; Free monthly educational seminars on cosmetic surgery procedures; Assistance with insurance where applicable; Connections to surgical financing if desired; A commitment to patient privacy.
Board Certification - What does it mean?
Many people are surprised to learn that any licensed medical doctor, regardless of training, can legally call him or herself a plastic surgeon with no specific training in that field.
Many doctors listed in the yellow pages under the title of "Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery" have not completed an approved residency in plastic surgery. And some have the designation of "Board Certified" but their certification is not by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS).
Established in 1933
the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS), a not-for-profit organization comprising 24 medical specialty Member Boards, is the pre-eminent entity overseeing the certification of physician specialists in the United States. The primary function of ABMS is to assist its Member Boards in developing and implementing educational and professional standards to evaluate and certify physician specialists.
While most people know to look for board-certified surgeons
many are still not aware that there have been an increasing number of "certification boards" launched that masquerade as legitimately recognized boards. California was one of the first states to pass legislation requiring that if a doctor advertises as "board-certified," their advertising must specify which board is providing the certification. California initiated this legislation to protect the unsuspecting public from doctors and surgeons offering to perform cosmetic procedures without certification recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties.
When looking for a plastic surgeon, board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery should be your first and most basic criteria.
It assures you that the doctor you've chosen has graduated from an accredited medical school and, after medical school, completed an approved residency program of at least six years and passed a certifying exam. While board certification does not guarantee you a great surgeon, it's at least an indication that the surgeon has been appropriately trained for his specialty.
Testimonials
Here are a small sample of the comments others have left on our Patient Survey which is filled out by all our patients after their treatment and follow up.
Tracy
Tracy of Redding (breast lift) said we were "always friendly and helpful" and that she was "well cared for". Her comments about Dr. Ball were: "Always professional. Great sense of humor."
Amber
Amber from Red Bluff (tummy tuck, breast augmentation) said she felt "Confident" and her advice to others "It is well worth it."
Judy
Judy from Lewiston (facelift) " I feel much more confident, people respond positively to a younger more attractive face." Her advice "Not to be afraid. There is very little pain involved. The results are well worth any discomfort."
Megan
Megan from Paradise (breast augmentation and lift) "I feel 100% better. I feel I healed great! One day I plan to come in and get more. You guys are awesome! Keep up the good work!!"
Kala
Kala from Gridley (breast augmentation) "So happy! I love how they turned out and I feel like a whole new person!! So in love with them." Advice she offers others...."DO IT." "Get the gummy bear implants. Feel very real."
The Specialty of Plastic Surgery
Plastic surgery is a demanding blend of art and science aimed at restoring your more youthful appearance, altering some things you wish to change, or repairing defects or injuries.
The effects of plastic surgery are meant to be lasting, so choose your surgeon carefully.
Cosmetic Surgery
In today's world, one of the keys to success is looking your best. You care about your appearance and if you're considering cosmetic surgery, your not alone. Each year, hundreds of thousands of Americans have cosmetic surgery to enhance their appearance and self-image. Whether your goal is "turning back the clock" to achieve a more youthful appearance, reshaping or refining a facial feature, or improving the contour of your body, Plastic Surgery Associates of Redding can help. Our surgeons offer a full spectrum of the latest techniques in aesthetic procedures. The most common cosmetic surgeries performed by our surgeons are described in the links below.
Facial Enhancement
Face Lift
There are many different variations of the facelift procedure. Ultimately the effect is smoothing the skin of the face and neck, tightening the underlying tissues and muscle, and removing excess skin. Sometimes liposuction of the neck and jowls may be performed also. The results are a reversal of the effects of gravity and tightening of soft tissues of the face to restore a more youthful contour to the face. Facial resurfacing often adds the finishing touches to a facelift.
Forehead / Brow Lift
A forehead / brow lift is performed to improve the position and shape of the eyebrow and forehead areas. This procedure may be done in conjunction with other cosmetic procedures to achieve a more harmonious facial appearance. The results are a reversal of the effects of gravity and tightening of soft tissues of the forehead to restore a more youthful contour to the upper face.
Neck lift
Lifting and tightening of the skin and soft tissues of the neck to restore a more youthful appearance. Neck lifts may be combined with liposuction. This procedure is often combined with other facial enhancement procedures for a more harmonious overall appearance.
Eyelids (Blepharoplasty)
Eyelid surgery is often sought to address one or more of the following conditions: Excess skin obscuring the natural fold of the upper eyelids; Loose skin hanging down from the upper eyelids, perhaps impairing vision; A puffy appearance to the upper eyelids, making the eyes look tired; Excess skin and fine, "crepe paper type" wrinkles of the lower eyelids; Bags and dark circles under the eyes; Lower eyelid droopiness.
Nose (Rhinoplasty)
Reshaping of the nose for aesthetic or medical reasons.
Lip Enhancements
Lip enhancement creates fuller, plumper lips and reduces fine wrinkles around the mouth. Lips may be injected with fillers or with fat transferred from another site in the patient's body. Fillers are absorbed over time and repeat treatments are necessary to maintain results. Fat transferred can be permanent.
Cheek Enhancements
Cheek enhancement can restore the fullness to your cheeks if it has been lost with aging, or can create the appearance of strong cheek bones if you never had them. There are many options for aesthetic cheek surgery, depending on your particular appearance, and the look you wish to attain. The operation adds volume to the cheek by effectively augmenting the bone structure of the cheek region, enhancing the foundation of your mid-face.
Chin (Genioplasty)
Aesthetic chin surgery is performed to improve the balance of your facial profile and correct a "weak" chin. Chin augmentation with implants is the procedure of choice for most patients with normally functioning teeth and jaw development. Depending on the region augmented, you can create a stronger and/or wider chin, and even lengthen your face.
Ears (Otoplasty)
Patients who benefit from ear surgery include those who may have protruding ears, large ears, or abnormally shaped ears. For children, ear surgery often is recommended as they near total ear development at age five or six.
Fat Injections
Fat harvested from your own body, injected into strategic areas for volume enhancement. When done correctly it produces safe, long-lasting, and natural-appearing results.
Filler Injections
Fillers restore volume to the face and can add structure as well. Depending on the type of filler and the depth at which it is injected, you can smooth out fine lines on the surface of the skin, fill out deep lines (eg: nasolabial folds), augment soft tissues (such as the lips), or even effectively augment facial bone structure. Fillers can also be used for rejuvenating the look of aging hands.
Botox
Most appropriate for active lines or age associated wrinkles that are just starting to appear. Botox temporarily weakens or paralyzes the muscle that is causing the wrinkle. Botox can be applied at varying degrees to preserve the use of facial expressions which are important to a natural look.
Skin Resurfacing/Rejuvination
Chemical peels, dermabrasion, and laser resurfacing are among the more popular options for improving undesirable skin conditions such as blotchiness, pigment changes, brown spots, and wrinkles.
Breast Enhancement
Breast Implants (Breast Augmentation)
Surgical insertion of silicone or saline breast implants to enhance the size and shape of the natural bust line. Breast augmentation is typically used to enlarge small breasts or breasts that have decreased in size after childbirth, correct asymmetry, or restore a breast that has been removed or disfigured as a result of a mastectomy.
Breast Lift
Surgical restructuring of the breasts meant to raise and firm them. Often combined with inserting breast implants to enhance the volume, shape, and position of the breasts, resulting in a more youthful breast contour.
Breast Reduction
Surgical removal of excessive breast tissue. Breast reduction usually can alleviate the physical symptoms caused by the excessive weight of large breasts as well as improve the size and shape of your breasts.
Body Enhancement (Liposuction, Tummy Tuck and Others)
Liposuction
Liposuction surgery may be considered to treat areas of excess fat in the stomach, buttocks, hips, love handles, saddlebags, thighs, calves, ankles, breasts (including male breast enlargement), back, arms and neck. Liposuction is meant to enhance your body contour by reducing moderate areas of fat deposits that are out of proportion with the rest of your body. It cannot address large or overall weight reduction goals. The results of liposuction surgery are usually long-lasting, but they may be affected by weight gain, aging, pregnancy and other lifestyle factors. Liposuction is equally effective in both men and women.
Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
Women and men who have loose abdominal skin and fat that is concentrated in the abdomen can benefit from abdominoplasty. Sometimes these conditions are inherited. In other instances, substantial weight loss may cause abdominal skin to become flaccid. Abdominoplasty also can tighten muscles that have been separated and weakened by pregnancy. The procedure may somewhat improve the appearance of stretch marks, especially those located below the navel.
Butt Enhancement
Lifting, countouring, and augumentation are among the options for refining your derriere. Through the use of liposuction, body lift techniques, buttock implants or injection of fat harvested from your body, you can achieve a more shapely and or voluptuous butt.
Hand Rejuvenation
With age the hands begin to show thinning of soft tissues, causing the bones and veins to become more visible. Fat transfer can restore soft tissue coverage and a more youthful look to this too-often overlooked area.
Body Lift (major weight loss)
Body contouring after major weight loss reduces the excess skin and fat that is left behind from the expansion of skin, loss of fat and lack of tissue elasticity that often occurs after a major weight loss. This sagging skin commonly develops around the face, neck, upper arms, breast, abdomen, buttocks, and thighs and can make your body contour appear irregular and misshapen.
Lower Body Lift
A lower body lift tightens loose, sagging skin in the buttocks, posterior thighs, hips, outer thighs, and anterior thighs. The loose skin, as well as underlying fat tissue, is removed from below the incision to allow suspension of the remaining tissues to stretch and smooth the lower body, especially the buttocks and thighs. It can be combined with an abdominal skin tightening if needed.
Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)
Removal of the excess skin and fat deposits, leaving the upper arms with a more pleasing and youthful contour. As a person ages, upper arm skin can become loose and flabby. The incision extends from the elbow to the underarm, and sometimes on to the side of the chest. In some instances, your plastic surgeon may recommend that liposuction be used alone or in conjunction with an arm lift to remove excess fat in the upper arms.
Thigh Lift
Removal of loose, sagging skin and underlying fat tissue.
Mommy Makeover
Breast Implants (Augmentation)
Surgical insertion of silicone or saline breast implants to enhance the size and shape of the natural bust line. Typically used to enlarge small breasts or breasts that have decreased in size after childbirth, correct asymmetry, or restore a breast that has been removed or disfigured as a result of a mastectomy.
Breast Lift
Surgical restructuring of the breast s meant to raise and firm them. Often combined with inserting breast implants to enhance the volume, shape, and position of the breasts, resulting in a more youthful breast contour.
Liposuction
Liposuction may be considered to treat areas of excess fat in the stomach, buttocks, hips, love handles, saddlebags, thighs, calves, ankles, breasts, back, arms and neck. Liposuction is meant to enhance your body contour by reducing moderate areas of fat deposits that are out of proportion with the rest of your body. It cannot address large or overall weight reduction goals. The results of liposuction surgery are usually long-lasting, but they may be affected by weight gain, aging, pregnancy and other lifestyle factors. Liposuction is equally effective in both men and women.
Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
Women and men who have loose abdominal skin and fat that is concentrated in the abdomen can benefit from abdominoplasty. Sometimes these conditions are inherited. In other instances, substantial weight loss may cause abdominal skin to become flaccid. Abdominoplasty also can tighten muscles that have been separated and weakened by pregnancy. The procedure may somewhat improve the appearance of stretch marks, especially those located below the navel.
Just for Men
In addition to the above procedures for the face and body, there are some additional options available to address the more specific needs of men. Once you consult with your PSAR surgeon about your personal goals, he can design an individualized plan that may include these and/or other procedures for the custom fit that you deserve.
Facial Implants
Facial implants are designed for augmentative, reconstructive or rejuvenative purposes. Available in a wide range of sizes and styles for the chin, jaw, nose and cheek, implants add or restore contour and/or proportion to the face.
Male Breast Reduction
Gynecomastia is a condition that is far more common than many realize. It affects an estimated 40 to 60 percent of the male population. It may affect only one breast or both. Enlarged male breasts can be reduced by liposuction and/or by cutting out excess glandular tissue. The procedure takes an average of two hours, usually on an outpatient basis, using general or local anesthesia. If excessive glandular tissue, fat and skin is present, it will be removed. For the removal of excess fatty tissue alone, liposuction may be all that is needed. Results are permanent, although subsequent obesity can create a gynecomastia-like effect.
Chest Implants
Chest implants are used to enhance the pectoral contour of the male chest. Implants are made of solid silicone or other non-reactive materials. They are surgically implanted either by designing a well fitted pocket or affixing it to soft tissue.
Calf Implants
Calf implants are used to enhance the muscular contour of the lower leg. Implants are made of solid silicone or other non-reactive materials. They are surgically implanted either by designing a well fitted pocket or affixing it to soft tissue.
Non-Surgical Procedures
The Finishing Touches...
Neuromuscular Toxins (Botox)
Appropriate for active lines or age associated wrinkles that are just starting to appear. Neuromuscular toxins are used to temporarily weaken or paralyze the muscle that is causing the wrinkle. Botulinum Toxin type A is a family of neurotoxins that block nerve signals that cause muscles to contract. The toxin works directly where it is placed, and thus can be artistically used to alter facial expressions. Botox Cosmetic® is widely recognized, and was the first neurotoxin to be approved for cosmetic use in the United States.
Injectable Fillers
Soft tissue injectables are useful for treatment of firmly established wrinkles or larger lines of facial aging (such as the nasolabial folds). Fillers restore volume to the face and can add structure as well. Depending on the type of filler and the depth at which it is injected, you can smooth out fine lines on the surface of the skin, fill out deep lines (eg: nasolabial folds), augment soft tissues (such as the lips), or even effectively augment facial bone structure. If you are considering soft tissue fillers, it is a reasonable practice to first try short acting agents to be certain that you enjoy the effects of treatment before utilizing longer acting agents. Your physician will have their personal preference regarding a filler or neuromuscular agent that gives good results, and together you should be able to choose a treatment regime that matches your desires.
Skin Resurfacing
Chemical peels, dermabrasion, and laser resurfacing are among the main techniques used for skin resurfacing. Patients may have their skin resurfaced at almost any age. You may have certain characteristics that make you a better candidate for one technique rather than another, or your surgeon may have a preference based on his or her personal experience with the different methods. You may be a good candidate for skin resurfacing if you have one or more of the following conditions: wrinkled or sun-damaged facial skin; vertical wrinkles around your mouth, such as those that cause lipstick "bleed"; "crow's feet" lines around your eyes and perhaps some skin laxity in your lower eyelid area; fine wrinkling of your upper eyelids; brown spots or blotchy skin coloring; certain precancerous skin growths; acne or chicken pox scars; superficial facial scars from a past injury. Plastic Surgery Associates of Redding physicians pride themselves in offering only the most effective choices available in designing a treatment plan customized to your specific goals.
Reconstructive Procedures
Rebuild, Repair, Restore... There are numerous procedures and techniques used in reconstructive surgery and the process is very particular to each individual. It is best to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to explore how best to approach your specific needs.
Reconstructive Surgery
Reconstructive Surgery is the area of plastic surgery aimed at restoring or improving the appearance or function of a certain body parts following an accident, illness or birth defect. The most common reconstructive surgeries performed by our surgeons are described in the links below.
Breast Reconstruction
Breast reconstruction is achieved through several plastic surgery techniques that attempt to restore a breast to near normal shape, appearance and size following mastectomy.
Although breast reconstruction can rebuild your breast, the results are highly variable:
A reconstructed breast will not have the same sensation and feel as the breast it replaces. Visible incision lines will always be present on the breast, whether from reconstruction or mastectomy. Certain surgical techniques will leave incision lines at the donor site, commonly located in less exposed areas of the body such as the back, abdomen or buttocks.
A note about symmetry
If only one breast is affected, it alone may be reconstructed. In addition, a breast lift, breast reduction or breast augmentation may be recommended for the opposite breast to improve symmetry of the size and position of both breasts.
Cleft Lip
Cleft lip (cheiloschisis) and cleft palate (palatoschisis) are among the most common birth defects affecting children in North America.
The incomplete formation of the upper lip (cleft lip) or roof of the mouth (cleft palate) can occur individually, or both defects may occur together. The conditions can vary in severity and may involve one or both sides of the face.
A cleft, or separation of the upper lip and/or the roof of the mouth, occurs very early in the development of your unborn child.
During fetal development, certain components of the upper lip and roof of the mouth fail to form normally. Cleft lip and cleft palate repair is a type of plastic surgery to correct this abnormal development both to restore function and to restore a more normal appearance.
Most clefts can be repaired
through specialized plastic surgery techniques, improving your child's ability to eat, speak, hear and breathe, and to restore a more normal appearance and function.
A team of specialists can help
Early intervention by a team of specialists to evaluate your child is essential in cleft lip and/or cleft palate repair. The team can work together to define a course of treatment, including surgical repair of the cleft, speech rehabilitation and dental restoration. These specialists may include a: Plastic surgeon; Pediatrician; Pediatric dentist; Otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialist); Auditory or hearing specialist; Speech pathologist; Genetic counselor; Social worker.
Breast Reduction
Breast Reduction
Also known as reduction mammaplasty, breast reduction surgery removes excess breast fat, glandular tissue and skin to achieve a breast size in proportion with your body and to alleviate the discomfort associated with overly large breasts.
Hand Surgery
If your hand is impaired in any way, surgery may improve your condition. This type of very specialized surgery can treat diseases that cause pain and impair the strength, function and flexibility of your wrist and fingers. Surgery seeks to restore to near normal the function of fingers and hands injured by trauma or to correct abnormalities that were present at birth. Specifically, hand surgery can treat:
Carpal tunnel syndrome
a condition caused by pressure to the median nerve within the wrist, or carpal tunnel. You might feel pain, a tingling sensation, numbness of the fingers, weakness or aching. Carpal tunnel syndrome is associated with multiple conditions including: repetitive motion or overuse, fluid retention during pregnancy, injury to the nerve in the carpal tunnel or rheumatoid arthritis.
Rheumatoid arthritis
a disabling disease that can cause severe inflammation in any joint of the body. In the hand, it can deform fingers and impair movement.
Dupuytren's contracture
a disabling hand disorder in which thick, scar-like tissue bands form within the palm and may extend into the fingers. It can cause restricted movement, bending the fingers into an abnormal position.
Is it right for me?
Hand surgery is a highly individualized procedure which can be performed on people of any age and is a good option for you if: You do not have additional medical conditions or other illnesses that may impair healing; You are a non-smoker; You have a positive outlook and realistic goals for your hand surgery; You are committed to following your plastic surgeon's prescribed course of treatment; In some conditions, hand surgery is necessary to treat wounds and to help painful conditions.
Scar Revision
Enhancing your appearance with scar revision surgery
Scars are visible signs that remain after a wound has healed. They are unavoidable results of injury or surgery, and their development can be unpredictable. Poor healing may contribute to scars that are obvious, unsightly or disfiguring. Even a wound that heals well can result in a scar that affects your appearance. Scars may be raised or recessed, different in color or texture from surrounding healthy tissue or particularly noticeable due to their size, shape or location. Your treatment options may vary based on the type and degree of scarring and can include: Simple topical treatments; Minimally invasive procedures; Surgical revision with advanced techniques in wound closure. Scar revision surgery is meant to minimize the scar so that it is more consistent with your surrounding skin tone and texture. Although scar revision can provide a more pleasing cosmetic result or improve a scar that has healed poorly, a scar cannot be completely erased.
Is it right for me?
Scar revision is a highly individualized procedure and you should do it for yourself, not to fulfill someone else's desires or to try to fit any sort of ideal image. Scar revision can be performed on people of any age and is a good option for you if: You are bothered by a scar anywhere on your body; You are physically healthy; You do not smoke; You have a positive outlook and realistic goals for your scar revision surgery; You do not have active acne or other skin diseases in the area to be treated.
Tissue Expansion
If Your Doctor Recommends Tissue Expansion...
Tissue expansion is a relatively straightforward procedure that enables the body to "grow" extra skin for use in reconstructing almost any part of the body. A silicone balloon expander is inserted under the skin near the area to be repaired and then gradually filled with salt water over time, causing the skin to stretch and grow. It is most commonly used for breast reconstruction following breast removal-but it's also used to repair skin damaged by birth defects, accidents or surgery, and in certain cosmetic procedures. If your doctor is recommending tissue expansion, this will give you a basic understanding of the procedure-when it can help, how it's performed, and what results you can expect. It can't answer all of your questions, however, since much depends on your individual circumstances. Please be sure to ask your surgeon if there is anything you don't understand about the procedure.
The Best Candidates for Tissue Expansion
Almost anyone in need of additional skin can benefit from tissue expansion-from infants to elderly men and women. The procedure is used widely in breast reconstruction when there is not enough skin to accommodate a permanent implant to restore a woman's natural appearance. It is also an option for repairing or replacing areas of the scalp, where hair growth makes it difficult to replace lost tissue with skin from other areas of the body. Tissue expansion generally produces excellent results when reconstructing some areas of the face and neck, the hands, arms, and legs. Expansion may be more difficult on the back, torso, or other areas where skin is thick. If the affected area is severely damaged or scarred, expansion is probably not an option since healthy skin is the first requirement.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Until recently, surgeons were limited to skin flaps and skin grafts to reconstruct damaged tissue. Tissue expansion, however, provides an added technique with several advantages. First, expansion offers a near-perfect match of color, texture, and hair-bearing qualities. Second, because the skin remains connected to the donor area's blood and nerve supply, there is a smaller risk that it will die. In addition, because the skin doesn't have to be moved from one area to another, scars are often less apparent. On the other hand, skin expansion has one significant drawback the length of time required to grow additional skin. Depending on the area to be reconstructed, tissue expansion can take as long as three to four months. During this time, the expander creates what can be an unsightly bulge which is desirable in breast reconstruction, but can be quite noticeable for someone requiring repair of the scalp or other areas of the body. Furthermore, the procedure requires repeated visits to the surgeon for injection of the salt water that inflates the balloon. For some people, the inconvenience and obvious appearance of an expander are enough for them to consider other options.
Seminars & Events
Our free seminars are a regular discussion by board certified physicians about what is possible with plastic surgery. It's also an opportunity to get to know the doctors and their techniques. Refreshments are served and attendees receive a certificate for a complimentary, private, one-on-one consultation with the doctor.
Facial Plastic Surgery
Date: August 20th; Time: 6 PM.
Breast Surgery, Augmentation, Lift and Reduction
Date: October 15, 2014; Time: 6 PM. Details: Breast surgery can alleviate back pain, help with wardrobe options, or increase your self confidence. Join Dr. Mark Ball in this free seminar as he covers details about lifts, reductions and augmentations (enlargements). Find out what's involved, the techniques he uses, before and after photos, and he'll answer your specific questions. Also, you'll receive a certificate for a free one-on-one consultation. Click the button below to reserve your seat.
Body Contouring / Mommy Makeover
Date: December 10, 2014; Time: 6 PM. Details: Join us for an in depth look at body contouring techniques and results with special emphasis on those issues that develop with childbirth. This includes tummy tuck, liposuction, breast augmentation, breast lift, and more. An educated patient makes better choices. Refreshments will be served and attendees will receive a certificate for a free one-on-one cosmetic consultation. Join Dr. Mendez for this informative seminar by clicking the Register Now button below.
With over 25 years each as plastic surgery professionals, both Dr. Ball and Dr. Mendez have abundant time and effort invested into perfecting their techniques to give attention to even the most subtle details in the art of Plastic Surgery.
Plastic surgery is meant to produce lasting results, so choose your surgeon carefully.
The human body is a complicated, interrelated canvas, and the ability to gracefully translate surgical procedures into a natural, aesthetic enhancement of your face and body requires a high degree of education, training, skill, and experience.
Selecting a qualified and experienced Plastic Surgeon to help guide you through the numerous procedures and treatments available today is paramount to achieving the results your desire.