Uncategorized Archives - Peter T. Hetzler M.D. FACS https://www.drpeterhetzler.com/category/uncategorized/ Thu, 09 Nov 2017 06:28:24 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 Lose the Sagging Eyes https://www.drpeterhetzler.com/lose-sagging-eyes/ https://www.drpeterhetzler.com/lose-sagging-eyes/#respond Fri, 15 Dec 2017 06:15:34 +0000 http://www.drpeterhetzler.com/?p=1311 Sagging isn’t appreciated much of anywhere. Not on a soufflé, and certainly not on your eyelids. But due to the thin skin on your eyelids and around your eyes (some of the thinnest on the entire human body), the eyelids and surrounding skin sag. And that can make you look years older. But you don’t […]

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Blepharoplasty Little Silver, NJSagging isn’t appreciated much of anywhere. Not on a soufflé, and certainly not on your eyelids. But due to the thin skin on your eyelids and around your eyes (some of the thinnest on the entire human body), the eyelids and surrounding skin sag. And that can make you look years older.

But you don’t have to put up with it. Blepharoplasty, eyelid surgery, with Dr. Hetzler, can take a decade and more of the appearance of your eyes. Eyelid surgery removes excess skin and fat, and tightens the underlying muscles as needed to return a younger, more rested look to the eyes.

Beyond the satisfaction of your younger looking eyes and face, eyelid surgery is also satisfying because people won’t know you had it. The results are dramatic, yet at the same time subtle. This sounds like hype, but it’s true. Despite taking from 10 to 15 years off your facial age, the scars are well hidden, and people will have no idea you’ve had surgery. Unlike more dramatic procedures such as breast augmentation or a facelift, after you’ve had eyelid surgery most people won’t know you’ve had surgery, only that your appearance somehow seems younger and refreshed.

Would eyelid surgery help me?

Eyelid surgery is one procedure that is popular with both women and men. Drooping eyelids, wrinkles, and puffy bags under your eyes show no bias by sex — they make everyone look much older! A trend in the aesthetic industry is for more and more men to have eyelid surgery to maintain a younger appearance when competing in the workplace. Overall, eyelid surgery is the second most popular facial cosmetic surgery after rhinoplasty (nose surgery).

Eyelid surgery

Eyelid surgery can be performed on both eyelids or singly, depending on your condition. Because of this, surgery can run anywhere from 45 minutes to two hours.

Blepharoplasty is a delicate surgery that involves small incisions. In upper eyelid surgery, Dr. Hetzler makes a small incision in the natural crease of the eyelid. This conceals any scarring. He then tightens the muscle tissue, repositions the fat, and removes excess skin. In recent years, the trend has been not to remove much fat in this area as it can leave the patient with a hollow look. Dr. Hetzler usually repositions the fat to maintain a natural look.

In the lower eyelid, the incision is usually made just below the lower eyelash. An alternative location can be making the incision inside the lower lid, removing any visible scarring. Excess skin is removed to lessen wrinkles, bags, and general puffiness in this area.

Recovery

Eyelid surgery with Dr. Hetzler does not dictate an extensive recovery. After the procedure, your eyelids will likely be covered with light gauze. You will be given an eye lubricant and a cold compress. Bruising and swelling are minor, particularly if you are diligent with the compress. After just three or four days your stitches are removed, and your eyelids generally will look normal, only younger! There can be some residual swelling, but it usually is gone within 10 days.

Who needs sagging eyelids? Certainly not you! Call Dr. Hetzler at 732-219-0447 to make a consultation for eyelid surgery.

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Breast Reconstruction https://www.drpeterhetzler.com/breast-reconstruction/ https://www.drpeterhetzler.com/breast-reconstruction/#respond Sat, 15 Jul 2017 07:05:08 +0000 http://www.drpeterhetzler.com/?p=1250 After a mastectomy or an injury/accident, breast reconstruction is a surgery that can be immensely gratifying for the patient. A patient may have beaten breast cancer, but the loss of one or both breasts can leave her feeling incomplete or flawed. Reconstruction of the breast or breasts by Dr. Hetzler can change a patient’s self-image. […]

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Breast Reconstruction Little Silver, NJAfter a mastectomy or an injury/accident, breast reconstruction is a surgery that can be immensely gratifying for the patient. A patient may have beaten breast cancer, but the loss of one or both breasts can leave her feeling incomplete or flawed. Reconstruction of the breast or breasts by Dr. Hetzler can change a patient’s self-image.

Dr. Hetzler has extensive experience in the various methods used for breast reconstruction. Plus, our entire staff will help you through the entire reconstruction process.

Here is some information on breast reconstruction.

Timing

Most mastectomy patients are medically appropriate for reconstruction. Many patients can have reconstruction immediately after the breast is removed. This has the advantage of the patient never had to see themselves without one or both breasts.

But there are good reasons to wait, as well. Many patients simply can’t deal with the thought of more complicated surgery beyond losing a breast. Other times health issues may dictate a delay before reconstruction.

Methods

  • Skin expansion

The most common technique used by Dr. Hetzler for reconstruction combines skin expansion and the subsequent insertion of an implant. Following mastectomy, Dr. Hetzler inserts a balloon expander beneath your skin and chest muscle. Through a tiny valve he then periodically injects a salt-water solution into the expander to gently stretch the skin over the breast area. When the skin has stretched enough, a second procedure will remove the expander and replace it with an implant. In some cases, the expander can function as that implant. In a subsequent procedure, Dr. Hetzler will reconstruct the areola and nipple.

Some patients don’t require tissue expansion to make room for an implant. In these cases, the implant can be inserted after mastectomy.

  • Flap reconstruction

Instead of implant insertion, some patients opt to have a breast constructed using a skin flap taken from another area on the body, usually the back, abdomen, or buttocks.

In one method, the tissue remains attached to its original site, retaining its blood supply. The flap, consisting of the skin, fat, and muscle with its blood supply, is tunneled beneath the skin to the chest, either creating the pocket for an implant or creating the breast mound itself.

Another flap technique takes tissue surgically from the abdomen, thighs, or buttocks and transplants it to the chest. Blood vessels are reconnected to the new area. Dr. Hetzler uses his experience in microvascular surgery for this blood vessel work.

Breast reconstruction isn’t easy, but it can be very rewarding. If you have any questions for Dr. Hetzler about the procedure, please call us at 732-219-0447.

 

 

 

 

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Will You Need a Full Tummy Tuck or Mini? https://www.drpeterhetzler.com/will-need-full-tummy-tuck-mini/ https://www.drpeterhetzler.com/will-need-full-tummy-tuck-mini/#respond Tue, 30 May 2017 02:30:49 +0000 http://www.drpeterhetzler.com/?p=1229 Pregnancy takes a toll on a woman’s body. The way the baby concentrates weight in the lower abdomen area can over-stretch the muscles and skin to the point that it cannot return to its former degree of tautness once the baby is delivered. In many cases, the muscles in this area become separated. And no […]

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Tummy Tuck Little Silver, NJPregnancy takes a toll on a woman’s body. The way the baby concentrates weight in the lower abdomen area can over-stretch the muscles and skin to the point that it cannot return to its former degree of tautness once the baby is delivered. In many cases, the muscles in this area become separated. And no matter how many crunches you do, you can’t get this skin and muscle to tighten back up.

Hello, stomach pooch.

A tummy tuck with Dr. Hetzler, however, can return your tummy to its pre-pregnancy self, returning contour. A tummy tuck not only targets the abdomen but also takes care of love handle or muffin tops. The procedure can be very satisfying for the patient.

The question is, do you need a full tummy tuck or just a mini?

Full tummy tuck

For a person with a good deal of sagging skin, a full tummy tuck is probably the answer. In a full tummy tuck, Dr. Hetzler makes two incisions. The first runs from hipbone to hipbone, pushing down toward the pubic area. This incision is meant to be able to be hidden under a swimsuit bottom or underwear. A second incision is made around the navel. The skin is pulled downward, an excess is removed, and the skin is then reattached to give a smooth, flat, tighter contour. Sometimes liposuction can be combined with a tummy tuck if there are pockets of fat that need to be removed. If a good deal of skin is removed, Dr. Hetzler may need to reposition the belly button.

Mini tummy tuck

A mini tummy tuck involves only the lower incision on the bikini line. It skips the upper incision. Plus, the length of the incision may be shorter to match the patient’s needs. Obviously, a mini tuck cannot address sagging and loose skin in the navel area.

While a mini tummy tuck is a simpler procedure that will require less downtime and will create just a single scar, it isn’t for everyone. Mini tucks are ideal for people at normal body weight, with just a small, lower belly pooch. If you have excess fat, saggy skin above your belly button, or have lost a lot of weight and have a lot of excess skin, you’ll need a full tummy tuck.

Obviously, you will discuss your options with Dr. Hetzler during your tummy tuck consultation. After examining your condition, the two of you may decide only a mini tummy tuck is necessary. Or you together may decide on the full procedure.

If you’re wondering how liposuction fits or doesn’t fit into this, liposuction targets fat pockets. It doesn’t remove excess skin or tighten the underlying muscle. Dr. Hetzler may add liposuction to your tummy tuck procedure if you have some fat pockets in addition to the loose skin.

Interested in getting your pre-baby body back? Call Dr. Hetzler at 732-219-0447 to schedule a consultation.

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Hyaluronic Acid and How It Works in Dermal Fillers https://www.drpeterhetzler.com/hyaluronic-acid-works-dermal-fillers/ https://www.drpeterhetzler.com/hyaluronic-acid-works-dermal-fillers/#comments Wed, 15 Mar 2017 06:28:46 +0000 http://www.drpeterhetzler.com/?p=1203 Hyaluronic acid is the basic ingredient in the class of dermal fillers known as “naturally derived” fillers. These fillers get this moniker because hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in the human body. In fact, it occurs in just about every living then. In humans, it acts as a network that transfers essential nutrients from the bloodstream […]

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Dermal FillersHyaluronic acid is the basic ingredient in the class of dermal fillers known as “naturally derived” fillers. These fillers get this moniker because hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in the human body. In fact, it occurs in just about every living then. In humans, it acts as a network that transfers essential nutrients from the bloodstream to the skin cells. At Dr. Hetzler’s we use Juvederm and Restylane, two of the world’s most popular hyaluronic acid dermal fillers.

More about hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronic acid is found in the human body. High concentrations are found in soft connective tissues and in the fluid surrounding your eyes. It’s also in cartilage and joint fluids. You may have heard of hyaluronic acid outside the world of aesthetics, as it is sometimes used as an injection for people with arthritis to ease the pain in their joints and to provide extra cushioning.

When hyaluronic acid gel is injected for aesthetic reasons, it acts like an inflated cushion supporting facial structures and tissues that may have lost volume or elasticity due to normal aging. Hyaluronic acid binds with water molecules to plump the skin.

What issues can hyaluronic acid fillers address?

We use Juvederm and Restylane to improve the skin’s contour and reduce depressions in the skin due to scars, injury, or simple aging. These are some of the issues we treat with these hyaluronic acid fillers:

  • Acne scars
  • Cheek depressions
  • Crow’s feet
  • Nasolabial lines
  • Frown lines between the eyebrows
  • Marionette lines
  • Redefining lip borders
  • Acne scars
  • Wound scars
  • Smoker’s lines
  • Worry lines

After your session

Most of our dermal filler sessions take 30 minutes or less. It’s important that the patient not rub the injection areas, as this can make the filler migrate to an area not intended.

Because hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in the body, allergic reactions are very rare. Otherwise, the injection sites may become slightly red, swollen, and have some very minor bruising.

Interested in addressing your aging issues without surgery? Call Dr. Hetzler, 732-219-0447, and ask about our hyaluronic acid fillers.

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Give Unwanted Fat the Cold Shoulder https://www.drpeterhetzler.com/give-unwanted-fat-cold-shoulder/ https://www.drpeterhetzler.com/give-unwanted-fat-cold-shoulder/#respond Wed, 15 Feb 2017 07:27:34 +0000 http://www.drpeterhetzler.com/?p=1194 Fat can be as stubborn as a two-year-old rolling about on the floor of the canned vegetables aisle in the grocery store. You eat right, you exercise, but it just keeps on keeping on. But you’re not keen on having an invasive procedure such as liposuction to get rid of the fat pockets. What to […]

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CoolSculptingFat can be as stubborn as a two-year-old rolling about on the floor of the canned vegetables aisle in the grocery store. You eat right, you exercise, but it just keeps on keeping on. But you’re not keen on having an invasive procedure such as liposuction to get rid of the fat pockets.

What to do? As you should do with the screaming two-year-old, you should give the fat the cold shoulder.

For the fat that means CoolSculpting with Dr. Hetzler.

What is CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting kills fat cells through controlled freezing. It’s the only procedure that does that and it doesn’t involve any surgery. Worldwide over 2 million CoolSculpting treatments have been performed.

Two Harvard scientists discovered the process that is now CoolSculpting. They were researching how cold from eating popsicles may have affected the development of dimples in some children. They found out that the popsicles had actually killed some of the fat cells, making the area leaner and creating dimples. They then applied the same research to fat pockets and found the same held effect true. The process of freezing the fat cells is called cryolipolysis.

CoolSculpting works because fat cells freeze at a higher temperature than the surrounding tissue cells. When the CoolSculpting freezing paddles are applied to the target areas, they deliver precisely controlled freezing into the tissue below. These temperatures only freeze the fat cells, leaving the adjacent tissues undamaged. Fat cells are crystallized and gradually die off. As with any dead cells, the body removes them from the body through the lymphatic system.

How much fat does CoolSculpting put in a deep freeze?

Research shows that patients experience a 20% reduction in fat in the treatment areas. Because most people have more than one area they seek to target, most of our CoolSculpting patients opt to have six to eight treatment sessions. Each session lasts around one hour and patients can read or watch Netflix while the treatment is ongoing. If you opt to have an area treated a second time with Dr. Hetzler, however, note that the fat reduction is not as high as the first time.

Where can I have CoolSculpting?

CoolSculpting can be used really all over the body. The usual target areas are the upper thighs, love handles, lower stomach, behind the knees, and under the chin.

So, why not get ready for the Shore this winter by putting the freeze on your unwanted fat with CoolSculpting. Call Dr. Hetzler at 732-219-0447 for an appointment.

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Double Chins Are Doubly Irritating https://www.drpeterhetzler.com/double-chins-doubly-irritating/ https://www.drpeterhetzler.com/double-chins-doubly-irritating/#respond Sun, 15 Jan 2017 02:14:37 +0000 http://www.drpeterhetzler.com/?p=1169 Submental fullness. That’s the nice way to say something that most of us over the age of 40 deal with to one degree or another — the dreaded double chin. Submental fullness is the clinical term for junk under the chin. We like to think that everyone else has the double chin, but most of […]

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KybellaSubmental fullness.

That’s the nice way to say something that most of us over the age of 40 deal with to one degree or another — the dreaded double chin. Submental fullness is the clinical term for junk under the chin.

We like to think that everyone else has the double chin, but most of us have at least some unwanted fat under our chin. In the past, nothing short of a neck lift or liposuction could address a double chin, but a new prescription injection called Kybella® has changed that. Kybella® improves the profile of people with moderate to severe double chins. Dr. Hetzler now provides Kybella at his practice.

Double chinny chin chin

The three little pigs maybe didn’t allow for stuff by the hairs of their chinny chin chins, but they probably all had double chins, too. For us humans, double chins are pretty much a part of growing older, and surely a part of putting on weight. The unending downward pull of gravity, along with loosening of the skin, creates a perfect condition for the skin to hang down and collect fat. The result is drooping skin and a lack of definition in your profile.

At least you and your double chin are in good company. The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery conducted a survey in 2015 on double chins. The results showed that 67% of people were “bothered by their double chin.” And they said their double chin bothered them just as much as wrinkles and other signs of aging.

Kybella® doubles down on double chins

Kybella® is basically made of deoxycholic acid. Deoxycholic acid occurs naturally in the body; its job is to aid in the breakdown and absorption of dietary fat. Now you can see the simplicity behind Kybella®. To deoxycholic acid fat is fat, meaning it doesn’t differentiate between dietary fat and other fat that can be found in pockets under your chin. When Kybella® is injected into the fat beneath the chin, it destroys the fat cells. And it destroys them permanently, removing the storage mechanism to accumulate fat in the area. That means your double chin is gone for good, as long as you don’t put on a good deal of weight in the future.

You may think that if Kybella can melt away the fat under your chin, why not use it everywhere you’ve unwanted fat. How about on your tummy? While it is tempting to think that this would work, at this point the FDA has only approved Kybella for use on double chins. Research is progressing on other potential areas, however.

How does Dr. Hetzler use Kybella?

A Kybella session is sort of like a Botox session — short but sweet! A Kybella session with Dr. Hetzler lasts less than 30 minutes. It involves a series of injections with a very small needle. A series of treatments is necessary to regain the profile most patients seek, although you will see results after the first session. Most patients opt for a series of six treatments.

Interested in losing your chin’s resemblance to Jobba the Hut? Call Dr. Hetzler at 732-219-0447 and ask about Kybella.

 

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Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome https://www.drpeterhetzler.com/understanding-carpal-tunnel-syndrome/ https://www.drpeterhetzler.com/understanding-carpal-tunnel-syndrome/#respond Fri, 30 Dec 2016 05:41:36 +0000 http://www.drpeterhetzler.com/?p=1157 When looking at our site, you see the cosmetic applications of Dr. Hetzler’s surgical expertise, but that’s only part of what he can do for you. Dr. Hetzler is also adept at hand surgery, correcting problems caused by injuries and degenerative disorders. One of the most common hand disorders is carpal tunnel syndrome. The carpal […]

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Carpal Tunnel SyndromeWhen looking at our site, you see the cosmetic applications of Dr. Hetzler’s surgical expertise, but that’s only part of what he can do for you. Dr. Hetzler is also adept at hand surgery, correcting problems caused by injuries and degenerative disorders. One of the most common hand disorders is carpal tunnel syndrome.

The carpal tunnel is a narrow, fibrous passage in the wrist that protects the median nerve. This is the nerve responsible for movement and sensation in the hand and thumb, index and middle fingers. It can become congested, leading to tingling and numbness in the fingers — carpal tunnel syndrome. Dr. Hetzler can open up this congestion and head off possible loss of strength and dexterity in the fingers.

What causes carpal tunnel syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome basically comes down to crowding through the carpal tunnel. Anything that decreases the amount of space in the carpal tunnel, increases the amount of tissue in the tunnel, or increases the sensitivity of the median nerve can lead carpal tunnel syndrome. This causes the carpal tunnel to squeeze and compress the median nerve. This is known as nerve impingement or entrapment and can lead to numbness, tingling, pain, and weakness in the affected fingers and thumb of the hand.

Symptoms

People who have repetitive jobs using their hands often suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome, and it affects women more often than men. The condition usually begins as an ache in the wrist that may extend down to the forearm or up to the hand. As carpal tunnel syndrome worsens, the patient may experience tingling or numbness in the fingers or pain radiating through the entire arm. The tingling is a sign of issues with the nerve, and this can lead to weakness in the hand in question along with difficulty grasping small objects.

How we treat carpal tunnel syndrome

Dr. Hetzler has two goals when treating your carpal tunnel syndrome: to allow you to return to your normal function and activities, and to prevent nerve damage and the corresponding loss of muscle strength in your fingers and hands. Our team begins with conservative methods to treat carpal tunnel syndrome:

  • Anti-inflammatory drugs
  • Splints
  • Physical therapy
  • Utilizing cold packs to reduce inflammation through the carpal tunnel
  • Corticosteroid injections

If these methods do not stop the pain and tingling in the fingers, Dr. Hetzler’s next option is to surgically relieve the pressure on the median nerve.

Carpal tunnel release

This procedure is called carpal tunnel release. The goal is to relieve pressure on the median nerve and reduce symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. The procedure can restore muscle strength and dexterity.

Dr. Hetzler performs the procedure in two ways: endoscopically or through an open procedure. Which method we opt to perform depends on the individual situation of each patient.

Open carpal tunnel release involves a two-inch incision in the middle of the palm. This provides the surgeon a better view of the treated area and involves less risk of accidentally damaging nerves in the area.

Endoscopic carpal tunnel release involves only two tiny incisions and makes for less post-operative pain and a faster return to work. There may be a slightly higher chance of needing another surgery down the road.

If you’ve begun to notice tingling in your fingers and pain in your wrist, you could be developing carpal tunnel syndrome and Dr. Hetzler should take a look at it. Call him at 732-219-0447 to make your appointment.

 

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Beating the Burn — Understanding Sunscreen https://www.drpeterhetzler.com/beating-the-burn-understanding-sunscreen/ https://www.drpeterhetzler.com/beating-the-burn-understanding-sunscreen/#respond Fri, 30 Oct 2015 10:13:33 +0000 http://www.drpeterhetzler.com/?p=907 Living in New Jersey with so much time spent at the shore, we’re all exposed to a lot of sun. The sun’s ultraviolet rays are the culprits, penetrating the skin and damaged its cells, leading to skin aging and wrinkling, and various skin cancers. We all know that the best thing would be to never […]

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Living in New Jersey with so much time spent at the shore, we’re all exposed to a lot of sun. The sun’s ultraviolet rays are the culprits, penetrating the skin and damaged its cells, leading to skin aging and wrinkling, and various skin cancers.

We all know that the best thing would be to never go outdoors, unless we are dressed like a mummy. But who wants to do that?

So, we all apply sunscreen. But what do you really know about sunscreen and how it protects, or doesn’t protect, you? Dr. Hetzler wants all his patients to be as educated about his procedures as they possibly can. But in the case of sunscreen, he’d rather have healthy patients and give up his skin cancer surgeries. So, here’s some info that may help.

Sun protection factor (SPF) and UV radiation

sunscreen protectionSince the advent of modern sunscreens, a sunscreen’s efficacy has been measured by its sun protection factor, now commonly known by its acronym, SPF. SPF is not really a measure of protection, it is a measure of how long it will take for ultraviolet B (UVB) rays to redden your skin compared to having no sunscreen on. For instance, SPF 15 means that it will take 15 times longer with sunscreen on than without. Why does it use the UVB rays? Those are the rays that cause sunburn because they penetrate only the epidermis, the surface layer of the skin.

As for amount of UVB protection, an SPF 15 sunscreen screens 93 percent of the sun’s UVB rays; SPF 30 protects against 97 percent; and SPF 50 protects against 98 percent. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends only SPF 15 and higher for providing adequate protection.

But scientists now say UVA rays, which penetrate far more deeply, into the dermis layer of the skin, also cause skin damage and skin cancer. So, you need a sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB. To do this, look for a sunscreen with at least SPF 15, plus some combination of the following UVA-screening ingredients: avobenzone, ecamsule, oxybenzone, titanium dioxide, and zinc oxide. When you see a label that says broad spectrum or multi spectrum or UVA/UVB these indicate that some UVA protection is provided. However, there isn’t a measure of how much protection these terms denote.

How do sunscreens work?

The ingredients in sunscreens form a thin, protective film on the surface of the skin and absorb the UVA radiation before it penetrates the skin. The “sunscreens” are actually physically screening the sun, meaning that their insoluble particles reflect the UV rays back off the skin. The FDA has approved 17 active ingredients for use in sunscreens.

Unfortunately, no matter how much you know about UVA rays and sunscreen, your skin will still suffer sun damage.

Now that you’re a sunscreen expert, Dr. Hetzler hopes you’ll put your new knowledge to good use and be smart about sun exposure. And when you find those inevitable spots, call us and have Dr. Hetzler check them for cancer, 732-219-0447.

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Get Those Ears Pinned to Stem the Teasing https://www.drpeterhetzler.com/get-those-ears-pinned-to-stem-the-teasing/ https://www.drpeterhetzler.com/get-those-ears-pinned-to-stem-the-teasing/#respond Thu, 15 Oct 2015 10:19:52 +0000 http://www.drpeterhetzler.com/?p=916 Kids can be relentless, especially when they settle onto an unusual condition in the appearance of another kid. This is especially true with protruding ears. Comments such as “satellite ears” or “Dumbo ears” can really impact the self-esteem of a child or young adult. But it doesn’t have to. Otoplasty, commonly known as ear surgery, […]

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Kids can be relentless, especially when they settle onto an unusual condition in the appearance of another kid. This is especially true with protruding ears. Comments such as “satellite ears” or “Dumbo ears” can really impact the self-esteem of a child or young adult.

But it doesn’t have to. Otoplasty, commonly known as ear surgery, can easily correct protruding ears and eliminate the source of any future teasing. Dr. Hetzler typically performs this surgery on children between the ages of five and 14, although adults can opt to have it as well.

The surgery

ear surgeryOtoplasty is a simple procedure. It begins with incisions made behind the ears. From those incisions, a small amount of cartilage is removed or reshaped. With that cartilage removed, the remaining cartilage is sutured into place, pulling the ears closer to the head. Because the incisions are made behind the ears, they are virtually invisible.

Who can have otoplasty

Obviously, children with protruding ears are the usual candidates for otoplasty, but adults whose ears were not pinned when they were kids can also benefit from the surgery. Other people have natural ear defects and opt for reconstructive ear surgery. Some of these congenital ear defects include cat’s ear, cagot ear, scroll ear, cleft earlobe, lop ear, microtia, macrotia, or a constricted ear. Overly large or heavy earrings can also cause torn earlobes, which can be fixed with otoplasty.

Don’t subject your child to the teasing he or she will receive if they have protruding ears. Dr. Hetzler can easily correct the condition with otoplasty. Call us at 732-219-0447 and let’s discuss it.

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Facial Bones Show Signs of Aging Too https://www.drpeterhetzler.com/facial-bones-show-signs-of-aging-too/ https://www.drpeterhetzler.com/facial-bones-show-signs-of-aging-too/#respond Fri, 14 Jan 2011 17:59:54 +0000 http://www.drpeterhetzler.com/?p=688 For Optimal Facial Rejuvenation, Plastic Surgeons Should Consider What’s Going on Under the Skin What makes us look older? Wrinkles and sagging result not just from changes in the skin, but also from age-related changes in the underlying facial bones, according to a report in the January issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery®, the official […]

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For Optimal Facial Rejuvenation, Plastic Surgeons Should Consider What’s Going on Under the Skin

What makes us look older? Wrinkles and sagging result not just from changes in the skin, but also from age-related changes in the underlying facial bones, according to a report in the January issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery®, the official medical journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).

The researchers, led by Robert Shaw, Jr., MD, at the University of Rochester Medical Center, analyzed computed tomography scans of the facial bones in young (age 20 to 40), middle-aged (41 to 64), and older (65 and up) age groups. All scans were performed for medical reasons-not for planning plastic surgery.

Aging Linked to Changes in Eye Sockets, Jaw Bones, and More

Detailed measurements in three-dimensional reconstructions of the CT scans showed some important differences in the facial bone structure (or facial skeleton) between age groups. “The facial skeleton experiences morphologic change and an overall decrease in volume with increasing age,” Dr. Shaw and colleagues write.

One prominent change was an increase in the area of the “orbital aperture” – that is, the eye sockets. In both men and women, the eye sockets became wider and longer with age. Aging also affected the bones of the middle part of the face, including reductions in the glabellar (brow), pyriform (nose), and maxillary (upper jaw) angles.

The length and height of the mandible (lower jaw) decreased with age as well. Although these changes occurred in both sexes, many occurred earlier in women – between young and middle age. In men, most of the changes occurred between middle age and old age.

Plastic surgeons are experts at dealing with changes in the skin and underlying soft tissues that contribute to an aged appearance of the face. However, as the new study demonstrates, they must also understand the contribution of changes in the underlying facial bones.

“The bony components of the face are important for overall facial three-dimensional contour as they provide the framework on which the soft-tissue envelope drapes,” Dr. Shaw and coauthors write. For example, the enlarging eye socket and decreasing brow angle could contribute to frown lines on the forehead, “crow’s feet” at the corners of the eyes, and drooping of the lower eyelid.

By using materials and techniques for skeletal augmentation, plastic surgeons can improve the outcomes of facial rejuvenation, Dr. Shaw and colleagues believe. They discuss the “aesthetic implications” of changes in the facial bone structure, and outline some strategies plastic surgeons can follow to optimize the final results for patients who desire a more youthful appearance.

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