Why do doctors go to medical conferences?

This past week, I traveled to Beverly Hills to attend a very interesting conference organized by the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.  The meeting focused on advanced facial rejuvenation techniques.  Hundreds of surgeons from around the world, including Brazil, the Netherlands, New York, Miami, and even Beverly Hills were in attendance (there may have also been some doctors you’ve seen on TV before).

We discussed advanced surgical techniques for facelifts, necklifts, eyelid surgery, and forehead surgery. We also covered the myriad of non-surgical procedures for facial rejuvenation, including every dermal filler, every laser, and every non-surgical machine you have ever heard of.

What are the benefits of me attending conferences like this?

-        -  They are a great way to reconnect with my colleagues in the facial plastic surgery world. I also get a chance to meet many more during the meeting. As a whole, the community of facial plastic surgeons is very small compared to most surgical specialties worldwide. I really enjoy seeing familiar faces and being a part of an organization that works to advance our areas of expertise.

-        -  These meeting are incredibly stimulating for me as a surgeon.  Throughout our careers, we are constantly striving to improve.  Even the most skilled, most famous surgeons in the world are always looking to improve.  Discussing ideas and learning from my colleagues not only helps me sharpen my skills, but also gets me excited about the future of the practice and the possibilities that are yet to come.

-        -  I connect with cutting-edge companies and vendors who are developing the new, groundbreaking machines that we incorporate into our practices. I see something brand new that is being developed at every meeting I attend.  The future of facial rejuvenation is very exciting!

-        -  They’re tons of fun!  I had a chance to see some old friends and catch up, exchange stories of our adventures through medicine, and share ideas and experiences that have shaped who I am as a surgeon.  It is fun to experience Beverly Hills, if only for a few days.

After returning to Reno, I felt rejuvenated.  I had a great time during my trip, but there is no place like Northern Nevada.  I brought home a lot of new ideas and exciting plans for the future of Sierra Nevada Cosmetic and Laser Surgery.  I also reinforced my own techniques for all of my surgeries and procedures.

I bring all of this back to my patients and strive to provide you with the most advanced, state-of-the-art facial rejuvenation options available.  I’m looking forward to our next meeting, this fall in Nashville.

Here’s to the beautiful human face,

-         -    Dr. Yamamoto

It's wedding season

As March begins and Spring approaches, we know what that means.  Wedding season is upon us!  Family and friends, dresses and suits, and that special day that you have been planning since you were a child.  Looking your best for the big day is very important, especially when it comes to being memorable in your wedding photos.  Whether you are the bride, groom, parent, or in the wedding party, the photos you take will be enjoyed for years to come.

What are the best ways to look great in your photos? Here are some tips when it comes to your face:

-Botox/Xeomin/Dysport are absolutely key in making your eyes look bigger and brighter in your photos.  By using the product to weaken the muscles around your eyes that make you look tired or squinty (especially when taking photos outside), your eyes will be more open and smoother.  This looks great in photos!  Remember, this should be done at least 2-4 weeks before the big day to allow the product to settle in and work on the muscles completely.

-Make your cheeks or lips shapelier for your photogenic smiles with Voluma or Juvederm.  A well-done injection can make this look completely natural.  Your closest friends and family will love your look but won’t be able to tell what you did.  These injections should also be done at least 2-4 weeks in advance to allow them to completely settle in and be wedding-ready.

-Excellent skin tone and texture is the icing on the cake to any wedding dress or bridesmaid’s dress.  Prepare your skin for the big day with first, and most importantly, good sun protection.  It is especially important for us in Reno, since we will be getting plenty of sunshine now that winter is ending.  Consistent use of sunblock is the single easiest thing to do.  Look for sunblocks with Zine Oxide or Titanium Dioxide in them (like those found in our Sierra Nevada MD products).  I feel these work better than the ingredients in more typical chemical sunscreens (like oxybenzone and avobenzone).

-Treat yourself and make your skin glow with a Dermaglow microdermabrasion or chemical peel.  Annette Sonntag, our esthetician, will prepare your skin and ensure you get the rejuvenation and relaxation you’ll need for the big day.

The memories from your upcoming wedding last a lifetime.  These quick and easy tricks can help you look your best.

Here’s to the beautiful human face,

-Dr. Yamamoto