Botched Plastic Surgeries and How to Avoid Them
Plastic surgery can be very safe, but if you don’t do it right, it can be a dangerous and even deadly experience. There are countless stories of men and women who cut corners with their surgeries and ended up scarred, maimed or worse. Saving a few dollars isn’t worth risking a cosmetic surgery disaster. Here’s what you need to know to avoid botched cosmetic surgeries.
When Plastic Surgery Goes Wrong
There are many tales of plastic surgery gone wrong, but let’s take a look at a few that stood out below:
- Murder Charges after Buttocks Enhancement: A former madam was recently sentenced to prison after the death of one of her dancers. She injected nearly half a gallon of silicone into the bottom of a woman who later passed away. She had no medical training and no medical license. The treatments were often performed in hotels or at parties using equipment like a plastic water bottle filled with silicone, plastic cups and super glue.
- Death after Medical Tourism: Last year, several women died after traveling out of the country for cosmetic surgeries. One New York woman died of a pulmonary embolism during breast reduction surgery in the Dominican Republic. Another woman died during a tummy tuck and liposuction.
- Problems after Surgery: Death isn’t the only risk you can face. One woman had to visit a U.S. surgeon after returning from a breast augmentation overseas. Her surgeon found a cloth inside of her breast next to the implant, the source of her discomfort.
These stories share a common element. The women in these stories were receiving plastic surgery either out of the United States or from an unlicensed practitioner. Saving a little money isn’t worth the risk. Medical tourism can be very dangerous.
What Can You Do?
Plastic surgery can be safe, but there are important things you need to do before getting a procedure.
- Choose a Board-Certified Surgeon: You don’t have to be a plastic surgeon to perform cosmetic surgeries. Only board-certified plastic surgeons have the extensive training and experience in performing cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries.
- Vet Your Doctor: Take the time to meet with and vet your doctor before agreeing to surgery. Ask questions. Look at past examples of work. Check your surgeon’s credentials.
- Avoid Medical Tourism: Medical tourism can save money, but it isn’t worth the risk. Save up for your procedure a little longer and work with a surgeon you trust.
- Avoid Unlicensed Practitioners: Don’t opt for an unlicensed practitioner or a procedure that isn’t approved. When you work with a licensed surgeon and receive an approved procedure, you can greatly minimize your risk.
- Ask about Risks: Plastic surgery can be very safe, but there are risks. Talk with your surgeon about the risks before surgery and make an informed decision. Some procedures are riskier than others.
For a board-certified plastic surgeon in the Portland Oregon area, come see Dr. Waldorf. Call us today at 503-646-0101 and schedule your consultation.
The Fading Stigma of Plastic Surgery
Plastic surgery doesn’t have to be a secret. Now, more than ever, cosmetic enhancement is both accepted and embraced. If you don’t like your breasts, 
you can get implants. If your skin is dull, come in for laser skin rejuvenation. Surgical and non-surgical cosmetic treatments aren’t anything to be ashamed of; the stigma surrounding plastic surgery is fading and many choose to brag about their new look. That being said, while it is okay to tell the world, we also understand if you don’t choose to. Plastic surgery doesn’t need to be a secret, but that doesn’t mean you can’t keep it one if you choose (we won’t tell).
The Growth of Non-Surgical Treatments
Non-surgical and minimally invasive treatments are becoming more readily available. This is likely a big factor in the growing popularity of cosmetic treatments. Last year was a record-setting year for botulinum toxin treatments (like Botox), with 6.7 million treatments performed, a 6% increase from the year previous. Many other minimally invasive procedures also saw gains last year including chemical peels (7%), hyaluronic acid fillers (8%), laser skin resurfacing, laser hair removal (3%), etc.
Non-surgical and minimally invasive treatments make cosmetic enhancement more accessible. These treatments typically require little downtime (many are no-downtime procedures) and many are more affordable than surgical procedures. If you’ve got an hour, you’ve got time to look better.
Social Media = Lots and Lots of Sharing
Social media is another factor that may be contributing to the fading stigma of plastic surgery. We share and share a lot online. One survey found that more than half (58%) of respondents had at least one social media profile. Social media and the constant stream of photos of you has led to spikes in plastic surgery. It also makes it easier to connect with surgeons, to research procedures you’re considering and to learn about the cosmetic enhancements that friends and associates have done.
Look your best and be proud of it. Whether you’re looking for surgical enhancement or just a facial, the Waldorf Center is ready to help you meet your aesthetic goals. Call us today and schedule an appointment: 503-646-0101.
The Fading Stigma of Plastic Surgery
July Special Offers from the Waldorf Center!
The Waldorf Center has lowered their price for Juvederm Voluma XC, is offereing a great Uplifting Eye Package as well as a skin care special. Don't forget to check out our featured Spa Service of the Month!
June Specials From the Waldorf Center!
Get beach body sexy with this revolutionary way to eliminate unwanted fat - CoolSculpting! Don't forget to schedule your breast augmentation by June 30th for this great deal!
June Specials at The Waldorf Center
Look great and save a bundle with our exciting specials this June. These special prices won’t last, so call us today and schedule your appointment at 503-646-0101.
Get Summer Body Ready with CoolSculpting Savings
This summer, cool is the easiest way to have a hot body, CoolSculpting, that is. CoolSculpting is a revolutionary fat removal treatment that freezes fat cells and allows your body to naturally eliminate them. This treatment provides targeted fat removal (unlike a trip to the gym that removes fat more evenly) and is a great solution to love handles, belly fat and bra back fat. If you’ve got stubborn fat, CoolSculpting can permanently remove it for gorgeous, shapely curves. The procedure is FDA cleared and completely non-invasive (no surgery needed).
This June, you can save while getting your body summer ready with CoolSculpting. Receive a gift card with the purchase of a package, up to $300 in value (with the purchase of an 8pt package). Head over to our specials page for all the details on this promotion. Results start to appear after about three weeks; book today and start enjoying the CoolSculpting benefits this summer.
Antioxidants Outside
If you think antioxidants are just for eating, think again. They can be a powerful skincare tool as they fight free radicals that cause skin damage at the cellular level. Antioxidants combined with sunscreen pack a mighty anti-aging punch. They fight both free radicals and sun damage, two of the biggest causes of skin aging. This June, you can save 15% on antioxidant products and sunscreens. Sounds like a great time to stock up for summer.
Pampering Facial for Dad
Women love the pampering experience of a facial, but I bet your dad would love it too, if he gave it a try. We have a special facial just for our male patients, “The Gentleman’s Facial.” This 60-minute facial will leave his skin smooth, clean and hydrated. This is the perfect gift for every dad in your life. This June, the Gentleman’s Facial is on special for $65, a savings of $25, just in time for Father’s Day.
Which of these specials will you enjoy this month? Call us today and book your appointment.
Top 5 Things to Know About Lip Augmentation
Are your lips starting to age? Does your lipstick bleed from your lips into the lines around them? As the face ages, the lips tend to thin out and wrinkle,
whereas youthful lips are full and sensuous. If you need a little more plump in your pout, come see us at The Waldorf Center for Plastic Surgery. Lip augmentation can restore your lips to their youthful glory.
If you’re considering lip augmentation, keep reading for the top five things you need to know before your surgery.
There’s No Need for an Implant
When people first hear “lip augmentation,” they assume that the only way to get fuller lips is with implants, but that isn’t the case. We typically use dermal fillers to restore lip fullness (or create it for the first time) with great success. The fillers are injected into the lip area and last for about a year per treatment. We can re-inject the fillers when needed to maintain your look.
Unlike lip implants, dermal fillers are completely non-surgical. Typically there is no downtime, although there can be minimal bruising or swelling. No incisions or stitches are needed.
The Injector You Choose Matters
Lip injecting is an art form and choosing the right injector is essential for optimal results. Our highly trained injectors have many years of experience performing successful lip augmentation. No need to worry about getting overfilled, duck lips here. We’ll create a natural, but enhancing look for your lip.
If you aren’t in the Portland, Oregon area and can’t come to us for lip augmentation, choose an injector that is highly skilled. You may want to see photos of their past work. Ask friends and family for recommendations.
A Quick Look at the Procedure
The lip augmentation procedure is pretty straightforward. We’ll choose a filler that will work well with your lips. Then using a very fine needle, we’ll inject the filler into specific areas of the lip. Topical anesthetic can be used and many fillers include lidocaine to reduce discomfort.
It’s Fun
One last thing to remember about lip augmentation: it can be a lot of fun. Many of our patients love seeing the instantaneous change to their appearance. If you love going in for a manicure or to get your hair colored, you’ll probably love this too. It’s can be a great way to enhance your appearance.
Call us today and schedule your appointment for lip augmentation.
Breast Augmentation: What Are My First Steps?
Are you finally ready to have the body you’ve always wanted? If you’re ready to take the first steps toward your breast augmentation, this article will send you in the right direction. So put one foot in front of the other and keep moving forward. Your new, shapelier breasts await.
Find a Surgeon
One of the most important decisions you will make as you prepare for breast augmentation is your choice of a surgeon. Look for a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience performing breast augmentation. Many potential patients do not realize that cosmetic surgeries can be performed by any surgeon, including dermatologists and obstetricians. Board-certified plastic surgeons have more training and experience than many “cosmetic surgeons.”
Asking friends and family for a referral is a wonderful way to discover great surgeons in your area. Online reviews and patient testimonials ca
n also give you insight into potential surgeons. Many surgeons, including board-certified Dr. Kathleen Waldorf, offer consultations. This gives a prospective patient a chance to meet with their surgeon and to ask questions and the surgeon the opportunity to educate a little more about the procedure and create a plan should the patient decide to go forward with the surgery.
Choose a surgeon you like and schedule a consultation. Some patients choose to meet with a few surgeons to help narrow their choices.
What Do You Want?
You know you want breast augmentation, but now you need to decide what your dream breasts look like. Are you hoping for big and full with lots of cleavage or mid-sized and perky? Try and find some photos of breasts you like, both with and without clothing, to show during your consultation. This will give your surgeon a good starting point for creating a surgical plan for you.
During your consultation, we’ll use Vectra 3D imaging to give you an idea of your breast augmentation results. This system takes 3D pictures of your body and modifies them to show how various implant sizes and surgical techniques change your results. This valuable tool will help you create your perfect breasts.
Figure Out Financing
For many patients, the results of breast augmentation are well worth the price, but you do need to spend a little time figuring out how you’ll pay for your surgery. Typically insurance does not cover cosmetic breast augmentation. During your consultation with Dr. Waldorf, you’ll meet with our Patient Relations Coordinator who will discuss the various fees and costs of your procedure. This quote is good for six months. Please talk with us if you have any financial concerns and we’ll strive to help you find a solution. Financing options are available. We’re here to help in every aspect of your breast augmentation, including figuring out how to pay for it.
If you’re ready for breast augmentation, take the first step and schedule your consultation with Dr. Waldorf. Call us at 503-646-0101 today.
The Next Big Thing For Your Body … CoolSculpting
If you want to look hot this summer, now’s the time to get cool … with CoolSculpting, that is. This fat fighting treatment is poised to be one of the next big things in body shaping. Completely non-invasive, needle-free and with no downtime, CoolSculpting is one of the easiest ways to cut fat and reshape your body. Our patients love the stunning results. Are you interested in learning more about CoolSculpting? Call us today at 503-646-0101 and book your consultation today.
What is CoolSculpting?
CoolSculpting is a revolutionary way to fight stubborn fat. If you have pockets of fat that won’t budge, even after diet and exercise, CoolSculpting may be able to help. The specialized device targets these stubborn fat cells with intense cooling. The body then eliminates the frozen cells naturally. You’ll start to see results after about 3 weeks with peak results in 1-3 months.
The treatment is non-surgical and non-invasive. Come in, lay down on the treatment table, and relax. Many of our patients catch up on social media on their smartphones or read a book, some even nap. Treatment takes about an hour per application. Multiple applications may be needed. Dr. Waldorf will work with you to create a customized treatment plan and schedule.
What’s Recovery Like?
CoolSculpting is completely non-invasive; come in for treatment and head right back to your regular activities. You may experience a bit of redness, bruising, tingling, or numbness in the treatment area, but this typically fades quickly.
Is CoolSculpting Long Lasting?
CoolSculpting results can be very long lasting. The frozen fat cells are permanently removed from your body using your body’s own elimination processes. The body doesn’t regenerate fat cells, so once they are gone, they are gone for good. Of course, that doesn’t mean that you can’t gain weight. A good diet and exercise regimen is essential to maintain your CoolSculpting results. Many of our patients are delighted at the results they see and how long the results last.
Why CoolSculpting?
Is CoolSculpting right for you? Come talk with us about your options. CoolSculpting does have many benefits including:
- Targets Stubborn Fat- Stubborn fat (belly fat, love handles, bra back fat, etc.) is extremely difficult to get rid of. CoolSculpting allows us to target these problem areas. Diet and exercise often can’t compete.
- Great for Men and Women- CoolSculpting works well on both male and female patients.
- Non-Surgical- This non-surgical treatment requires no recovery period making it the perfect choice for busy men and women that want to look their best.
- Quick and Easy- CoolSculpting is quick and easy. Come in, lay back, and relax. Treatment takes about an hour, but that time is yours to enjoy.
- Stunning Results- CoolSculpting is quick and easy, but this treatment wouldn’t be popular if it didn’t work. It is very effective at eliminating fat and reshaping the body. Plus, the results are long lasting.
- Twice the Benefit in Half the Time- We are excited to have two CoolSculpting machines at our office. This means you can treat two areas at once. Double the benefit in less time!
Look great this summer, but don’t try to do it alone. CoolSculpting can help you achieve your goals. Call us today!
Great Ways to Pamper Mom this Mother’s Day
Your mom has done so much for you. Mother’s Day is a chance to say thanks. Thanks for those sleepless nights, those hugs and kisses and for that unconditional mother’s love. This year, give your mom something special. Give her the gift of beauty with one of our non-surgical cosmetic procedures. Any of these treatments would be the perfect way to tell Mom, “I love you”.
Botox®
Those smiles, tears and worries over the years have taken their toll on your mother’s face. The muscles that move and contract when your mom makes expressions can eventually create wrinkles and lines. Botox® calms the nerve impulses that lead to muscle movement and help those wrinkles fade away. Treatment takes just 15 minutes with ageless results that last 3-4 months. Would your mom like a little Botox® this Mother’s Day?
Hand Rejuvenation
Your mother’s hands have wiped your tears, bandaged your cuts and led you across the street. Rejuvenate them this Mother’s Day with our hand rejuvenation treatments. We will work with Mom to create a customized treatment plan to make her hands look younger using laser treatments and either dermal filler or fat injections. Hand rejuvenation can treat brown spots and hyperpigmentation, improve crepey skin texture and help restore lost volume. Your mother’s hands have done so much for you; give your mom hand rejuvenation and give something back.
Laser Skin Resurfacing
Help your mom turn back the clock on her look with laser skin resurfacing. This treatment uses a specialized laser to target and treat thousands of microscopic areas on the skin. The older damaged cells are removed and fresh, young skin shines through. Our Fraxel laser can treat everything from hyperpigmentation to poor skin texture and even loose skin.
Don’t waste your money on flowers that will soon die or chocolates that will live on your mother’s waistline. Give your mom a gift she’ll enjoy all year long: radiant, beautiful skin.
Mother’s Day isn’t the only day to tell Mom thanks, but it is the perfect opportunity to give your mom a bit of extra pampering. Call us today at 503-646-0101 and ask how you can make Mother’s Day special. Give your mom the gift of beauty this year.
Happy Mother's Day and May Specials!
Check out our Mother's Day special and our specials on Breast Augmentation, LATISSE, Obagi, and more for the month of May!
