Monday, February 22, 2016

Oscar Chat: The Red Carpet Look


As the Academy Awards approach, we get a lot of talk in the office about celebrities and their ability to look so good on the red carpet.  How do they do it?  And how can you get your own “red carpet” look for your next big event? 
I think the first important thing to discuss is the difference between those celebrities that look natural, and those that look “done.”  I think that for every one celebrity that looks bad with overly unnatural plastic surgery, nine other celebrities have done little things along the way to look youthful and natural.  They have been in the spotlight for years and have managed to see their plastic surgeon without you ever noticing.  That is exactly the kind of result I like to produce and the kind of result virtually everybody is looking for.
Small things along the way, whether it is Botox, Restylane, or a laser peel, can pay big dividends over the long-term.  You remain looking great without any big, noticeable changes.  Surgeries like a mini-facelift or blepharoplasty should also be done to create a nice improvement without looking overly “done” or unnatural.
Next, skin tone and texture is very important in looking good in your Oscar attire.  Nothing compliments a beautiful dress or tuxedo like bright, smooth skin.  Many celebrities are very consistent when it comes to their skin care.  Finding a product or specialized kit of products that works for you is key in keeping it consistent.  If you like following customized instructions, we can provide a kit that will be easy to use to maintain your skin.  If you prefer a one-and-done type of product, we carry those that fit your needs.  Whatever you use, remember that what you buy at your doctor’s clinic often has a much higher percentage of the active ingredient compared to those over the counter, and generally is more effective in giving you noticeable results.
Finally, remember that celebrities are spoiled with people who are there simply to make them look good.  From makeup artists, to fashion designers, they get the five star treatment before they step out in front of the cameras.
Think of me as your own personal five-star treatment to get you “red carpet” ready.  Whatever your needs are, I have every tool in my bag to help get you looking ready for your big award.
Here’s to the beautiful human face,
Dr. Yamamoto

Wednesday, February 3, 2016

Do you watch "Botched"?


This is probably one of the most common questions I get!  I admittedly didn’t watch it at first until I was convinced by patients to give it a try.  I have now seen several episodes. 
My impressions from the show:
-“Botched” presents extreme cases that we as plastic surgeons might see. From strange requests, to unbelievable past surgeries, to difficult complications, we all see these things on some level.  That is just the nature of being a doctor!  Even though Reno may not quite be like Beverly Hills, the medical challenges we face are similar.
-Dr. Nassif and Dr. Dubrow have excellent bedside manners.  They are smart, respectful, and interact well with their patients.  You definitely want to have a doctor you are comfortable with any time you come in for a visit.
-Dr. Nassif is a facial plastic surgeon and has the same training I do.  I have met him and been to the same conferences he goes to.  I find his patients on the show to be the most interesting.
-As a surgeon, I wish the show would go into more detail on how exactly the surgeries were performed (technical and specific points).  I am always interested in how my colleagues handle complex situations.  We learn from each other every day, and that is half the fun of doing this for a living.
-The other half of the fun is developing relationships with my patients!  The show demonstrates over and over again how important the doctor/patient relationship really is.
A final thought – remember that this is made for television.  Patients apply and audition to be on the show.  Situations are probably added to enhance the drama the viewers want to see.  I like my office to be fun and relaxing without all the hype and drama of a reality show! I invite you to come in and have a one-of-a-kind complimentary consultation with me.

Here’s to the beautiful human face,
-Dr. Yamamoto