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The purpose of anesthesia is to reduce the discomfort associated with surgery and to keep the patient safe while allowing the surgeon to complete the operation. The types and depth of anesthesia patients can undergo fall on a spectrum. As a facial plastic surgeon, I am not an authority on anesthesiology. However, I work closely with anesthesiologists in the operating room. I have cared for patients who have received each of the below types of anesthesia. The descriptions below are simply basic summaries to better educate patients. It is important to seek not only a fellowship-trained but also a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon if you have aesthetic concerns about your face and/or neck. Local Anesthesia Almost all procedures, regardless of the other anesthesia agents given (see below), involve the use of local anesthesia. The purpose of local anesthesia is to reduce or eliminate the local pain associated with the procedure itself. There are two families of anesthesia agents with multiple medication within these families. Some are shorter acting (e.g., one to two hours) and others are longer acting (e.g., six to eight hours). Short acting and long-acting agents are often mixed to provide the ideal time frame and depth of anesthesia. Other medications are also sometimes added to the mixture. Epinephrine is frequently added to the local anesthesia mixture. This medication can reduce the amount of bleeding during surgery by constricting the blood vessels in the area injected. Epinephrine also increases the effectiveness of the local anesthesia and can increase the safe amount of local anesthesia which is allowed to be injected. Sodium bicarbonate, which can reduce the pain associated with the initial injection, is sometimes added to local anesthesia as well. Local anesthesia can numb an area in two ways. First, the anesthesia can numb the area injected. Second, anesthesia injected around a larger nerve that supplies sensation to an entire region of the body can numb that entire region, despite no actual medication reaching the periphery of the area numbed. It is important to note that local anesthesia not only affects nerves that control sensation but also nerves that control movement. As a result, local anesthesia can cause temporary weakness in the muscle(s) in the area(s) injected. Oral Sedation Some patients prefer and could benefit from oral sedation in addition to local anesthesia. These patients may be undergoing procedures such as hair restoration surgery, upper eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), lip lift, and/or buccal fat removal. These patients may not require being completely asleep but would prefer something to relax. The typical medication given is a benzodiazepine such as Valium. These patients have their vital signs monitored during the entirety of the procedure. It is important to note that any patient who receives oral anesthesia such as a benzodiazepine needs a caregiver for 12 – 24 hours after surgery. These patients cannot drive themselves home after surgery because of the oral medication. Intravenous (IV) Sedation The term "IV Sedation" simply refers to anesthesia in which the patient is given one or more medications to reduce their level of consciousness to make the surgical procedure comfortable for the patient and to allow the surgeon the ability to operate more comfortably. The term also refers to the fact that the patient is breathing on their own and, therefore, does not require a breathing tube (intubation). There is a wide range in the depth of sedation patients can undergo. Some patients undergo very light sedation where they are awake and able to speak comfortably. Others undergo sedation where they are sleepier. There are many different medications that can be administered intravenously to achieve this sedation. This sedation is performed by a board-certified and licensed anesthesiologist. The anesthesiologist is the expert in administering this anesthesia as well as monitoring of the patient. Intubation Some patients benefit from deeper sedation requiring a breathing tube (intubation). The breathing tube protects the airway and is used with an anesthesia machine, which breathes for the patient. There are two techniques for administering this type of anesthesia. The first technique uses medications administered only intravenously (IV). The second technique uses anesthesia gases that the patient breathes through the breathing tube in addition to medications administered IV. The Most Appropriate Technique Depends on the Patient, the Procedure, the Surgeon, and the Anesthesiologist The anesthesia plan is developed in consultation between the surgeon and the anesthesiologist. It is dependent on multiple factors, including the surgical procedure, the estimated time of anesthesia, and the medical history of the patient. We at Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery have a Quad A accredited surgery suite at our office where we perform many of our procedures. We utilize the expertise of board-certified, licensed, anesthesia physicians for our procedures requiring IV sedation at Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery. Trust Your Face to a Facial Plastic Surgeon It is important to seek a fellowship-trained specialist in plastic surgery of the face and neck when you have concerns about your face or neck. Why Choose Dr. Harmon The mission of Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery is to help people along their journey towards self-confidence, to feel good about feeling good. Dr. Harmon is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Harmon values making patients feel welcomed, listened to, and respected. Dr. Harmon graduated with honors from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Science degree in molecular biology. Dr. Harmon earned his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon underwent five years of extensive training in head at neck surgery at the prestigious residency program at the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon then underwent focused fellowship training in cosmetic facial plastic surgery through the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) with the world-renowned surgeon, Dr. Andrew Jacono, on Park Avenue in New York City. Request a Consultation Request a consultation with Dr. Harmon at Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery in Cincinnati. Visit our clinic. You will learn more about Dr. Harmon's credentials, style, and approach. Build a relationship with our dedicated team. Do not stop at searching "plastic surgery near me." Get in touch with us to learn more! Contact Us

Following my previous post on the development of facial plastic surgery in South Korea, this blog post includes a list of cosmetic treatments for the face that are available in South Korea but not the United States (US). It is important to note that not all of the treatments listed below have been evaluated, much less approved, by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). That is, to the best of my knowledge, why the medications and devices are not yet widely available in the US. I will do my best to update this list as I identify additional treatments as well as any additional publications that weigh in on the actual safety and effectiveness of these treatments. It is important to seek not only a fellowship-trained but also a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon if you have aesthetic concerns about your face and/or neck. Rejuran® (PRM-001 Polynucleotide Product [Pharmaresearch Products, Inc., Seoul, South Korea]) I first learned about this product while reading Flawless: Lessons in Looks and Culture from the K-Beauty Capital by the National Public Radio (NPR) reporter Elise Hu. She mentioned the use of a product derived from salmon gonads (seriously) that South Koreans inject in their face at cosmetic clinics, ostensibly for the purposes of improving the appearance of the skin. Additional research revealed that this product, called Rejuran®, is available not only in South Korea but also now in Europe and Australia. It is an injectable like hyaluronic acid fillers but rather than using cross-linked hyaluronic acid to add volume to the face, fish gonadal polynucleotides are injected to increase the production of collagen and elastin in the skin, both of which are important to maintain the smooth and supple qualities of youthful skin. Polynucleotides are simply a string of signaling molecules which DNA and RNA is composed of. I am skeptical that a chain of these molecules from fish can somehow induce signaling in another species (i.e., humans) to achieve cosmetic results. Interestingly, the only study I found in the literature on this product was a phase III trial of Rejuran® conducted in South Korea in 2014 that was retracted from the medical literature two years after its publication (1). That, to me, is a red flag regarding its actual safety and effectiveness. Additional studies should help determine whether this product is worth evaluation by the FDA. Local Dynamic Micro-ultrasound (LDM) or Micro-Massage or Dual Frequency Ultrasound Termed Local Dynamic Micro-Ultrasound, Local Dynamic Micro-Massage (LDM), or Dual-Frequency Ultrasound, this treatment consists of an ultrasound device (probe) that alternates between two very high frequencies when applied to the surface of the skin. The device is being promoted as a technique to improve skin surface quality, with mechanisms of action which are unclear but may include changes in the inflammatory cascade that affect skin surface quality. My review of the literature identified studies that found improvements in bruising and swelling after rhinoplasty and improvements in redness in patients with rosacea and acne with the use of LDM (2, 3). However, as is common with facial plastic surgery studies, the methodology included largely subjective physical assessments by surgeons and patient satisfaction scores to determine their results. Moreover, papers I found that published on the effects of dual frequency ultrasound on wound healing had no comparison group from which to determine whether this treatment accelerated the healing process. This somewhat limits the value of the research itself. Moreover, while I was able to identify the above studies reporting the effects of the device on bruising, swelling, redness, and wound healing, I found no patient studies evaluating the aesthetic qualities of the skin as would be used in a cosmetic practice. Skin Botox© Skin Botox© is exactly as it sounds. The technique involves the use of botulinum toxin injections with products including, but not limited to, Botox© more superficially in the skin. It is argued that, when injected superficially to the facial muscle, botulinum toxin decreases pore size without affecting the muscle. This is considered an FDA off-label use of the medication in the United States, which is sometimes mixed with diluted hyaluronic acid filler and injected in the superficial surface of the skin. I would imagine it to be extremely challenging to place Botox© or other similar products precisely in the skin such that it is unlikely to diffuse to the underlying musculature which, if affected, could adversely affect facial movements including, but not limited to, smiling. Certainly, an appropriate dilution of the medication(s) and a needle that controls the depth of injection may make such a treatment consistently safe. Otherwise, it would seem a challenging thing to perform safely consistently, regardless of considerations of effectiveness. In my opinion, additional research is required. Ionophoresis/Sonophoresis Devices One of the more difficult problems with administering medications trans-dermally, or through the skin, is that it is difficult to get many products to actually be absorbed through the skin barrier. Instead, many products simply sit on the surface of the skin. The ability to move medications across this barrier precisely, efficiently, and safely would have potentially profound implications. And, if a device was found to be clinically safe and effective, the question then becomes whether the products administered are clinically safe and effective. The concepts of ionophoresis and sonophoresis have been around for many years. Iontophoresis involves the use of an electrical current through the skin to facilitate the transfer of products (4). Sonophoresis involves the use of sound waves through the skin to accomplish this (5). Both iontophoresis and sonophoresis techniques are intended to temporarily increased the permeability of skin in the specific area treated. The Environ Ionzyme® DF Machine is the device I found to be most commonly associated with the use of iontophoresis and sonophoresis to facilitate the transfer of medications and other products through the skin to achieve a clinical and/or aesthetic goal. My review of available information suggests the advertised products used with this device are often vitamins, including Vitamin A. I could not find definitive information as to whether the Environ Ionzyme® DF Machine specifically is FDA approved. Moreover, it does not appear to be widely available in the United States (US). I will be following the development and availability of ionophoresis/sonophoresis devices in the US. Air Dissection Filler Technique The air dissection filler technique utilizes pressurized air delivered into the skin using a special needle and device for the purposes of delivering products such as hyaluronic acid filler. One argument made for this technique is that hyaluronic acid filler can be delivered more evenly in the same tissue plane because the resistance to injecting into the specific tissue plane in which air is placed is reduced. Most of the before and after photos I have seen have demonstrated improvements in severely depressed scars. It is also argued that this technique can reduce the rare complications associated with intra-vascular injection of hyaluronic acid filler. However, I have found no study demonstrating this. I find the air dissection technique intriguing, especially for severely depressed acne scarring. I am looking forward to the opportunity to evaluate a device if and when it becomes FDA approved and available in the US. Trust Your Face to a Double Board-Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon It is important to seek a fellowship-trained, double board-certified specialist in plastic surgery of the face and neck when you have concerns about your face or neck. Why Choose Dr. Harmon The mission of Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery is to help people along their journey towards self-confidence, to feel good about feeling good. Dr. Harmon is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Harmon values making patients feel welcomed, listened to, and respected. Dr. Harmon graduated with honors from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Science degree in molecular biology. Dr. Harmon earned his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon underwent five years of extensive training in head at neck surgery at the prestigious residency program at the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon then underwent focused fellowship training in cosmetic facial plastic surgery through the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) with the world-renowned surgeon, Dr. Andrew Jacono, on Park Avenue in New York City. Request a Consultation Request a consultation with Dr. Harmon at Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery in Cincinnati. Visit our clinic. You will learn more about Dr. Harmon's credentials, style, and approach. Build a relationship with our dedicated team. Do not stop searching "plastic surgery near me." Get in touch with us to learn more. Contact Us References Notice of Retraction: Pak CS, et al. A Phase III, Randomized, Double-Blind, Matched-Pairs, Active-Controlled Clinical Trial and Preclinical Animal Study to Compare the Durability, Efficacy and Safety between Polynucleotide Filler and Hyaluronic Acid Filler in the Correction of Crow's Feet: A New Concept of Regenerative Filler. J Korean Med Sci 2014; 29(Suppl 3): S201-S209. J Korean Med Sci. 2016 Feb;31(2):330. Ahn TH, Lee JS, Kim SY, Lee SB, Kim W, Kruglik I, Yi KH. Application of dual-frequency ultrasound for reduction of perilesional edema and ecchymosis after rhinoseptoplasty. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2024 Mar;23(3):830-838. Kim YJ, Moon IJ, Lee HW, Won CH, Chang SE, Lee MW, Choi JH, Lee WJ. The Efficacy and Safety of Dual-Frequency Ultrasound for Improving Skin Hydration and Erythema in Patients with Rosacea and Acne. J Clin Med. 2021 Feb 18;10(4):834. Roustit M, Blaise S, Cracowski JL. Trials and tribulations of skin iontophoresis in therapeutics. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 2014 Jan;77(1):63-71. Rao R, Nanda S. Sonophoresis: recent advancements and future trends. J Pharm Pharmacol. 2009 Jun;61(6):689-705.

Men frequently seek a wide range of surgical and non-surgical facial plastic surgery procedures. This list is not all-inclusive but does highlight commonly requested procedures. Seek not only a fellowship-trained but also a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon to help determine whether any of these procedures may be able to address your concerns and desires. Non-Surgical Procedures Sought Include Botox©, Hyaluronic Acid Fillers, and Platelet-Rich-Plasma (PRP) Botox© can be immensely beneficial to men as well as women. Professionals including physicians, some of whom are attending special events such as weddings, seek Botox© to smooth out coarse wrinkles while preserving their masculine facial features. Men often seek treatment of their forehead, frown lines, and crow's feet, which are usually much coarser than in women. The procedure does not differ between men and women. However, men sometimes require higher doses to achieve their aesthetic goals due to the size of their facial muscles. Men also seek hyaluronic acid fillers, sometimes in areas rarely placed in women. For example, many men are bothered by a weak chin and jawline but are not ready for an implant. A strong, sturdy hyaluronic acid filler can be placed in these locations for non-surgical enhancement. Hyaluronic acid fillers are also used to straighten a dorsal hump in a procedure called a non-surgical, or liquid, rhinoplasty. PRP can be an excellent treatment option for hair loss in men who are younger with mild-to-moderate hair loss and who are not yet candidates, or not yet ready, for hair restoration surgery. PRP involves drawing a patient's own blood and concentrating the platelet component of the blood. These platelets release signaling molecules when injected around hair follicles that can restart the growth of dormant, or miniaturized, hair and sometimes even increase hair width. Surgical Procedures Sought Include Nose Surgery, Eyelid Surgery, Jawline Implants, Hair Restoration Surgery, and Facelift Surgery Nose surgery (rhinoplasty) is sought by men from their 20s to their 70s. Surgical considerations usually differ between men and women. Like women, men often seek a straighter nasal bridge, a narrower nasal tip, and a reduction of their nasal hump/bump. However, unlike women, the dorsal hump is generally softened or, at most, completely straightened. This is because a concave nasal bridge can sometimes feminize the nose. This can also occur when the nose is overly narrowed. A detailed discussion needs to be had between the surgeon and the patient regarding their aesthetic goals and how best to achieve those goals while preserving the masculine appearance of the nose. Like women, men develop age-related changes to their eyes – namely, redundant upper eyelid skin and lower eyelid bags – than can make them appear tired, sad, and/or angry. Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) can treat these changes comprehensively and naturally. Some men seek a more permanent solution to their poorly projected, weak jawline and chins. Usually made of silicone, chin and jawline implants come in multiple shapes and sizes. They can also be carved to perfect their size and contour, matching the patient's aesthetic goals as closely as possible. A chin implant is generally placed through a small incision under the chin. Jawline implants are generally placed through a small incision in the mouth. Men are the primary, though not exclusive, hair restoration surgery patients. Patients are usually in their mid-thirties or older with moderate-to-severe hair loss and have tried medications or PRP but found them incompletely effective. Hair restoration surgery encompasses two categories of procedures, called follicular strip harvesting (FUT) or follicular unit extraction (FUE), each of which has advantages for certain patients. Medications and PRP are usually used as complementary treatments. And more than one hair restoration surgery procedure is usually required to achieve a patient's aesthetic goal. Finally, men, like women, experience the same age-related changes to their face and neck. Men experience drooping cheeks, jowling, and scalloping of the jawline into the neck. Men also develop loose skin and muscle in the neck, which is often described as a "turkey gobbler" neck. As a result, men can also benefit from the extended deep plane facelift and neck lift. Trust Your Face to a Facial Plastic Surgeon It is important to seek a fellowship-trained specialist in plastic surgery of the face and neck when you have concerns about age-related changes in your face and neck. Why Choose Dr. Harmon The mission of Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery is to help people along their journey towards self-confidence, to feel good about feeling good. Dr. Harmon is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon. Dr. Harmon values making patients feel welcomed, listened to, and respected. Dr. Harmon graduated with honors from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Science degree in molecular biology. Dr. Harmon earned his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon underwent five years of extensive training in head at neck surgery at the prestigious residency program at the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon then underwent focused fellowship training in cosmetic facial plastic surgery through the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) with the world-renowned surgeon, Dr. Andrew Jacono, on Park Avenue in New York City. Request a Consultation Request a consultation with Dr. Harmon at Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery in Cincinnati. Visit our clinic. You will learn more about Dr. Harmon's credentials, style, and approach. Build a relationship with our dedicated team. Do not stop at searching "plastic surgery near me." Get in touch with us to learn more! Contact Us

I never bought into the supposed glamour of plastic surgery despite the abundance of advertising to that effect. Rather, I feel glamour is more often intended to be associated with plastic surgeons themselves in advertising. Virginia Postrel, a cultural writer, argues in her wonderful book The Power of Glamour that glamour "offers the implicit promise of a life devoid of mediocrity" and is "an illusion known to be false but felt to be true." Facial plastic surgery is, by definition, not an illusion. It does not provide escape but can facilitate engagement with the world on your own terms and with confidence. Ms. Postrel also states that, unlike luxury, glamour is not something money can buy. That is not the case with facial plastic surgery. But there is one quote from Ms. Postrel's book about the concept of glamour that I do think defines a great deal of plastic surgery marketing: "bring out the best, conceal the worst, and leave something to the imagination." The scenes of a plastic surgeon standing next to a private jet in a suit or driving a luxury car with aviators on is meant to glamorize the life of the plastic surgeon, not the client. However, this life, as Virginia Postrel states, is "an illusion known to be false but felt to be true." The truth is, we as plastic surgeons spend our 20s and early 30s working very hard for long hours in order to gain the experience and skills to safely and effectively take care of patients. Many of us have families with children. We deal with the exact same challenges and experience the exact same joys as our patients. We simply have the education and training to provide them a specialized service that few people can offer. It is important to seek not only a fellowship-trained but also a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon if you have aesthetic concerns about your face and/or neck. Trust Your Face to a Facial Plastic Surgeon It is important to seek a double board-certified, fellowship-trained specialist in plastic surgery of the face and neck when you have concerns about your face or neck. Why Choose Dr. Harmon The mission of Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery is to help people along their journey towards self-confidence, to feel good about feeling good. Dr. Harmon is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon. Dr. Harmon values making patients feel welcomed, listened to, and respected. Dr. Harmon graduated with honors from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Science degree in molecular biology. Dr. Harmon earned his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon underwent five years of extensive training in head at neck surgery at the prestigious residency program at the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon then underwent focused fellowship training in cosmetic facial plastic surgery through the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) with the world-renowned surgeon, Dr. Andrew Jacono, on Park Avenue in New York City. Request a Consultation Request a consultation with Dr. Harmon at Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery in Cincinnati. Visit our clinic. You will learn more about Dr. Harmon's credentials, style and approach. Build a relationship with our dedicated team. Do not stop at searching "plastic surgery near me." Get in touch with us today to learn more! Contact Us

It is a common misconception that all plastic surgeons have the same background and surgical training. The number and complexity of plastic surgery procedures had increased and the required depth of knowledge and skills to master a specific anatomic area has increased. The route a facial plastic surgeon takes begins with a five (5) year residency in head and neck surgery. That training includes an extensive volume of cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery focused solely on the face, neck, nose, eyes, and hair. Head and neck surgery training also includes head and neck cancer removal, restoration of facial nerve function, sinus surgery, larynx (voicebox) surgery, and airway surgery. A wide range of skills are developed by training in these disparate surgery types on the head and neck anatomy. A head and neck surgery resident then enters an additional year of training in fellowship focused exclusively on facial plastic and reconstructive surgery through the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstruction Surgery (AAFPRS). It is during this year that our clinical and surgical skills amalgamate and crystallize. The whole process takes 6 years, after which we start as an employed physician in a hospital or private practice or start our own practice. This focused, specialized training is why the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) says "trust your face to a facial plastic surgeon." It is important to seek not only a fellowship-trained but also a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon if you have aesthetic concerns about your face and/or neck. Trust Your Face to a Facial Plastic Surgeon It is important to seek a double board-certified, fellowship-trained specialist in plastic surgery of the face and neck when you have concerns about your face or neck. Why Choose Dr. Harmon The mission of Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery is to help people along their journey towards self-confidence, to feel good about feeling good. Dr. Harmon is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon. Dr. Harmon values making patients feel welcomed, listened to, and respected. Dr. Harmon graduated with honors from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Science degree in molecular biology. Dr. Harmon earned his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon underwent five years of extensive training in head at neck surgery at the prestigious residency program at the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon then underwent focused fellowship training in cosmetic facial plastic surgery through the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) with the world-renowned surgeon, Dr. Andrew Jacono, on Park Avenue in New York City. Request a Consultation Request a consultation with Dr. Harmon at Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery in Cincinnati. Visit our clinic. You will learn more about Dr. Harmon's credentials, style and approach. Build a relationship with our dedicated team. Do not stop at searching "plastic surgery near me." Get in touch with us today to learn more! Contact Us

Pre-operative testing and medical clearance from a Primary Care Provider (PCP) are key to maximizing the safety of any surgical procedure in which oral or IV anesthesia medications are being used at Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery in Cincinnati. The testing and medical clearance are reviewed by Dr. Harmon and the physician anesthesiologist prior to the surgery date. It is important to seek not only a fellowship-trained but also a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon if you have aesthetic concerns about your face and/or neck. The Testing Required Depends on Multiple Factors The extent of pre-operative testing depends on each patient's past medical history as well as the type of anesthesia they will receive. More testing is required prior to a longer surgical procedure in which IV sedation will be used compared with a procedure in which only local anesthesia is used. Every Patient Receiving IV Anesthesia Needs Medical Clearance from Their PCP It is essential that any patient undergoing IV sedation is evaluated by their PCP to assess their cardiovascular risk prior to undergoing surgery. The PCP reviews their past medical history, reviews current medical problems, completes a physical exam, and reviews the testing listed below to conclude whether they are cleared for surgery. Most Patients Need an Electrocardiogram (ECG) Most patients need an ECG to rule out any previously undiagnosed abnormal heart rhythms or changes consistent with coronary artery disease (CAD) that would place them at increased risk while undergoing anesthesia. Most Patients Need a Chest Xray (CXR) Most patients need a CXR prior to surgery to rule out any obvious changes that could make oxygenating difficult while undergoing anesthesia. Most Patients Need Laboratory Work The laboratory testing most patients need includes a Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP) to evaluate electrolytes as well as a Complete Blood Count (CBC) to evaluate the levels of various components of the blood. Pregnancy Testing is Required for Most Individuals Pre-Operatively Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery has a pre-operative pregnancy testing policy that requires pregnancy testing – unless refused – for females of child-bearing age the morning of surgery who have not undergone a hysterectomy or removal of their ovaries and fallopian tubes (salpingo-oophorectomy). Trust Your Face to a Facial Plastic Surgeon It is important to seek a fellowship-trained specialist in plastic surgery of the face and neck when you have concerns about your face or neck. Why Choose Dr. Harmon The mission of Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery is to help people along their journey towards self-confidence, to feel good about feeling good. Dr. Harmon is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon. Dr. Harmon values making patients feel welcomed, listened to, and respected. Dr. Harmon graduated with honors from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Science degree in molecular biology. Dr. Harmon earned his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon underwent five years of extensive training in head at neck surgery at the prestigious residency program at the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon then underwent focused fellowship training in cosmetic facial plastic surgery through the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) with the world-renowned surgeon, Dr. Andrew Jacono, on Park Avenue in New York City. Request a Consultation Request a consultation with Dr. Harmon at Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery in Cincinnati. Visit our clinic. You will learn more about Dr. Harmon's credentials, style, and approach. Build a relationship with our dedicated team. Do not stop at searching "plastic surgery near me." Get in touch with us to learn more! Contact Us

Patients can expect a detailed and honest conversation with Dr. Harmon during their consultation at Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery in Cincinnati, Ohio. It is important to seek not only a fellowship-trained but also a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon if you have aesthetic concerns about your face and/or neck. Expect a Detailed Conversation About Your Concerns and Aesthetic Goals with Dr. Harmon Dr. Harmon feels that the focus of a consultation should be on establishing a strong physician-patient relationship. As a result, he brings patients to his office and conducts the entire consultation himself. Expect a detailed discussion about your concerns and aesthetic goals. Dr. Harmon prefers to listen to what concerns you rather than tell you what he thinks should concern you. Expect an Honest Conversation About the Available Treatments, their Benefits, and their Potential Risks Dr. Harmon performs the gold standard surgical techniques in aesthetic facial plastic surgery including the extended deep plane facelift and fat perseveration eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty). He also adheres to the most up-to-date evidence in the medical literature when making recommendations, whether surgical or non-surgical. As a specialist in facial plastic surgery, he can confidently determine whether a surgical or non-surgical treatment would best address your concerns and aesthetic goals. He also believes it is important to communicate not only the benefits of any procedure but also the potential risks – however small – to patients himself. Trust Your Face to a Facial Plastic Surgeon It is important to seek a fellowship-trained specialist in plastic surgery of the face and neck when you have concerns about your face or neck. Why Choose Dr. Harmon The mission of Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery is to help people along their journey towards self-confidence, to feel good about feeling good. Dr. Harmon is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon. Dr. Harmon values making patients feel welcomed, listened to, and respected. Dr. Harmon graduated with honors from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Science degree in molecular biology. Dr. Harmon earned his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon underwent five years of extensive training in head at neck surgery at the prestigious residency program at the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon then underwent focused fellowship training in cosmetic facial plastic surgery through the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) with the world-renowned surgeon, Dr. Andrew Jacono, on Park Avenue in New York City. Request a Consultation Request a consultation with Dr. Harmon at Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery in Cincinnati. Visit our clinic. You will learn more about Dr. Harmon's credentials, style, and approach. Build a relationship with our dedicated team. Do not stop at searching "plastic surgery near me." Get in touch with us to learn more! Contact Us

The promotion of aesthetic plastic surgery in the United States increased dramatically after the second world war when surgeons who gained experience reconstructing the war wounded saw a sudden drop in patients. This development paralleled the greater professionalization – the act of increasing training for and/or the qualifications required to enter - of the field of plastic surgery. However, one of the problems associated with the early advertising of plastic surgery services in the 1940s and 1950s was that these promotional efforts did not extend to the head and neck surgery trained facial plastic surgeons who were highly qualified to perform aesthetic facial plastic surgery procedures. It is important to seek not only a fellowship-trained but also a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon if you have aesthetic concerns about your face and/or neck. Facial Plastic Surgeons Could Not be Listed in the Yellow Pages Facial plastic surgeons even had difficulty getting their names listed in the Yellow Pages, which was one of the most important ways for prospective patients to find plastic surgeons at the time. The American Medical Association (AMA) specialty code designations that telephone companies adhered to when listing physicians in the Yellow Pages did not allow a physician to declare their sub-specialty practice or to change their specialty practice after they were listed. This prevented a head and neck surgeon from, for example, declaring a subspecialty of facial plastic surgery or changing their specialty to facial plastic surgery, which effectively excluded them from advertising. It took an anti-trust complaint filed by the Federal Trade Commission against the AMA in the 1970s – which allowed physicians to generally advertise and market – to allow facial plastic surgeons to appropriately designate themselves in the Yellow Pages. Photo Source: Simons, Robert L. Coming of Age: A Twenty-Fifth Anniversary History of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. New York, New York: Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 1989. Print. Facial Plastic Surgeons were Professionally Excluded Head and neck surgery trained facial plastic surgeons were not allowed to evaluate the credentials of facial plastic surgeons for hospital privileges and plastic surgeons often refused to do so. Plastic surgery medical societies who agreed to allow head and neck surgeons to present papers were often criticized. Attempts were made to stop seminars on facial plastic surgery taught by head and neck surgeons. Companies were threatened with economic sanctions for agreeing to sell surgical equipment to head and neck surgeons. Plastic surgeons even obstructed the teaching of facial plastic surgery to head and neck surgery residents. These restrictions lead head and neck surgery residency programs to develop some of the earliest formalized and best organized teaching curricula for facial plastic surgery. For more information on this please see this previous blog post on the history of facial plastic surgery. A Harper's Bazaar Article Led to the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery An article was published under the heading "The Wish to be Beautiful" by the plastic surgeon Geri Trotta in Harper's Bazaar in 1960. Readers were asked to write to the secretary of the American Board of Plastic Surgery in St. Louis for a list of qualified surgeons. Those qualified surgeons did not include facial plastic surgeons. Harper's Bazaar was, and remains, a popular and widely read beauty and fashion magazine. As a result, this article captured the attention of the public. Called the "Harper's Bazaar Hassle," this article was a strong impetus for the formation of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery – of whom I am a fellowship-trained member – in 1964. This Level of Conflict no Longer Exists between Specialties The contributions of both facial plastic surgeons and plastic surgeons to the field of plastic surgery has been immense. For example, it was the plastic surgeon Sam Hamra who developed and first published on deep plane facelift surgery, which my fellowship director, the facial plastic surgeon Andrew Jacono, advanced with his extended deep plane facelift technique. Each specialty has valuable skills and lessons to teach the other. That exchange in the literature and at conferences is essential to advancing the field of aesthetic plastic surgery. The above history simply highlights the early challenges facial plastic surgeons faced to gain the professional respect and acknowledgement they deserved. Trust Your Face to a Facial Plastic Surgeon It is important to seek a fellowship-trained specialist in plastic surgery of the face and neck when you have concerns about your face or neck. Why Choose Dr. Harmon The mission of Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery is to help people along their journey towards self-confidence, to feel good about feeling good. Dr. Harmon is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon. Dr. Harmon values making patients feel welcomed, listened to, and respected. Dr. Harmon graduated with honors from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Science degree in molecular biology. Dr. Harmon earned his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon underwent five years of extensive training in head at neck surgery at the prestigious residency program at the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon then underwent focused fellowship training in cosmetic facial plastic surgery through the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) with the world-renowned surgeon, Dr. Andrew Jacono, on Park Avenue in New York City. Request a Consultation Request a consultation with Dr. Harmon at Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery in Cincinnati. Visit our clinic. You will learn more about Dr. Harmon's credentials, style, and approach. Build a relationship with our dedicated team. Do not stop at searching "plastic surgery near me." Get in touch with us to learn more! Contact Us References Simons, Robert L. Coming of Age: A Twenty-Fifth Anniversary History of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. New York, New York: Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 1989. Print. Featured photo of June 1960 cover of Bazaar credit: EphemeraForever.com via Pinterest

There are many wonderful options for facial rejuvenation prior to a wedding. And whether you are the bride, groom or, more commonly, the mother or father of the bride or groom, it is important to know what procedures are commonly sought and how long before such an event one should consider undergoing these procedures. Seek not only a fellowship-trained but also a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon to help determine whether any of these procedures may be able to address your concerns and desires. Six Months to One Year Prior to the Wedding Day The extended deep plane facelift and neck lift are frequently considered prior to a wedding, usually from the mother or father of the bride or groom. These procedures are among the most effective at restoring some of the youthful features of the face and neck. It is recommended to allow at least six months but preferably twelve months prior to the wedding to the wedding date to undergo these procedures to allow enough time to heal. Three to Six Months Prior to the Wedding Day Many individuals desire a refresh of their eyes prior to a wedding. They are concerned about redundant upper eyelid skin, drooping eyebrows, and lower eyelid bags. They would like their eyes to appear more "open" and youthful. The lateral temporal brow lift can address eyebrow drooping and eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) can address redundant upper eyelid skin and lower eyelid bags. All three procedures complement each other. It is recommended to allow at least three months but preferably six months prior to the wedding date to undergo a lateral temporal brow lift and/or eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty). Like eyebrow and eyelid surgery, allow at least three months but preferably six months prior to the wedding date to undergo laser resurfacing of the face. Laser resurfacing can treat wrinkles, age spots, and sunspots as well as mismatched and uneven skin texture. It is very important to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun for the first three months after the procedure, which is often difficult on the wedding day. Two to Four Weeks Prior to the Wedding Day Botox© is one of the most common procedures requested by the wedding party. It is recommended to allow at least two weeks prior the event for the effects of the treatment to reach their maximal effect. It is preferable to receive this treatment at least four weeks prior to the wedding in case additional Botox© needs to be added to achieve an ideal result. Like Botox©, allow at least two weeks but preferably four weeks prior to the wedding date to have hyaluronic acid filler placed. The Above Time Frames are Recommendations and Not Guarantees of Results The above time frames listed are a best approximation of the anticipated recovery from each procedure. Every patient is different and may heal at a different rate. Therefore, the above time frames listed do not guarantee full recovery prior to the wedding day. Trust Your Face to a Facial Plastic Surgeon It is important to seek a fellowship-trained specialist in plastic surgery of the face and neck when you have concerns about age-related changes in the face and/or neck. Why Choose Dr. Harmon The mission of Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery is to help people along their journey towards self-confidence, to feel good about feeling good. Dr. Harmon is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon. Dr. Harmon values making patients feel welcomed, listened to, and respected. Dr. Harmon graduated with honors from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Science degree in molecular biology. Dr. Harmon earned his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon underwent five years of extensive training in head at neck surgery at the prestigious residency program at the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon then underwent focused fellowship training in cosmetic facial plastic surgery through the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) with the world-renowned surgeon, Dr. Andrew Jacono, on Park Avenue in New York City. Request a Consultation Request a consultation with Dr. Harmon at Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery in Cincinnati. Visit our clinic. You will learn more about Dr. Harmon's credentials, style, and approach. Build a relationship with our dedicated team. Do not stop at searching "plastic surgery near me." Get in touch with us to learn more! Contact Us

You will meet the entire surgical care team, complete paperwork, take photos, and change your clothes for the operating room the morning of surgery at Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery in Cincinnati. It is important to seek not only a fellowship-trained but also a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon if you have aesthetic concerns about your face and/or neck. Dress Comfortably We recommend that patients wear comfortable, stretchy pants or sweatpants and a shirt that buttons from the front. Patients can wear their pants in the operating room. However, their shirt is replaced with a long gown. It is much easier to put on a shirt on after surgery that does not need to be pulled over the face. A Long Gown and Non-Slip Socks Will Be Provided A long gown that ties from the back and non-slip socks are provided to patients before they enter the operating room. Patients will change back into their normal clothes prior to leaving the office. Trust Your Face to a Facial Plastic Surgeon It is important to seek a fellowship-trained specialist in plastic surgery of the face and neck when you have concerns about your face or neck. Why Choose Dr. Harmon The mission of Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery is to help people along their journey towards self-confidence, to feel good about feeling good. Dr. Harmon is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon. Dr. Harmon values making patients feel welcomed, listened to, and respected. Dr. Harmon graduated with honors from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Science degree in molecular biology. Dr. Harmon earned his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon underwent five years of extensive training in head at neck surgery at the prestigious residency program at the University of Cincinnati. Dr. Harmon then underwent focused fellowship training in cosmetic facial plastic surgery through the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) with the world-renowned surgeon, Dr. Andrew Jacono, on Park Avenue in New York City. Request a Consultation Request a consultation with Dr. Harmon at Harmon Facial Plastic Surgery in Cincinnati. Visit our clinic. You will learn more about Dr. Harmon's credentials, style, and approach. Build a relationship with our dedicated team. Do not stop at searching "plastic surgery near me." Get in touch with us to learn more!