International Aesthetic Surgery Congress of ISAPS in Athens, 1-3 November

The International Aesthetic Surgery Congress of ISAPS held in Athens, 1-3 November, was very successful. Dr Rodopoulou was a guest speaker and gave a speech entitled “Non Invasive Facial rejuvenation”.

International Aesthetic Surgery Congress of ISAPS in Athens, 1-3 November

The audience and the prominent scientists responded to her speech warmly making comments and asking questions. What is more, Dr Rodopoulou was awarded for her contribution to the conference.

In her speech she referred to the new innovative techniques that she performs, such as the Special Injectable Anti-Wrinkle Mesotherapy For Cheek Wrinkles Removal, Sfumato, the smart use of hyaluronic acid in fine wrinkles, autologous platelet-rich plasma mesotherapy (PRP) and the non invasive skin tightening technique with radiofrequencies Fractora Firm+Plus.

 

ISAPS September 4-8, 2012

Mr. Keramidas shall present his papers during ISAPS, the most eminent world meeting for aesthetic plastic surgery to be held in Geneva, from 4 to 8 September 2012 with the participation of 3000 fellow congressmen from 60 countries.

1st paper: Minimising complications and post-operative pain in breast augmentation.

This is the first time this pioneering philosophy on breast augmentation will be presented in a world meeting.
The 13-minute video features

  • A presentation of the 40-minute non-touch, non-pain technique.
  • Extraordinary painless recovery following breast augmentation.
  • Choosing the right silicon implant size.
  • Minimizing complications.

 

2nd paper: The Use of Radio Frequency Assisted Liposuction (BodyTite) in Difficult Areas.

A pioneer also in liposuction, Mr. Keramidas shall present his unique experience with the use of radio waves (bodytite) in difficult areas such as inner thighs, abdomen, arms, neck and back. This is an oral, 6-minute presentation.


3rd paper: A new technique in tuberous breasts correction

Mr. Keramidas shall present a new technique tuberous breast correction combining the MUST technique and, when needed, areola minimization.

International Meeting on Aesthetic and Reconstructive Facial Surgery IMAFR

1-3 September 2011, Kos.   (www.imafr2011.org) 

Presentation of two papers in English (official language of the conference)

  1. MACS Face Lift: Result analysis and proposed amendments. Or V SMASectomy
  2. The new Sfumato technique

1) MACS Face Lift: Result analysis and proposed amendments. Or V SMASectomy
MACS Face Lift is a Face Lift technique in which very small incisions allow us to achieve maximum face lifting and natural result. This presentation is important as it refers to the suggested amendments for even better results.
To achieve best face lift, we need to elevate not only the skin but also the inner part of the face. This is the so-called SMAS.
MACS Face Lift involves very small incisions – photo I – and is based on the use of internal sutures for elevation of the inner part of the face.
Our amendments involve the following actions:
First – Photo I.  More extended preparation of the face.
Second – Photo II. V Smasectomy, which allows for better lift of the face.
Third – Incisions through the ear, allowing for an almost invisible scar.
The most important advantages are:

  1. Small incisions, almost invisible
  2. Natural results
  3. Maximum, long-lasting lifting
  4. Speedy recovery
  5. Minimum to no complications
  6. The safest method with zero problems as to facial nerves

2) The new Sfumato technique: A combination of the Anti-Wrinkle And Muscle Relaxant Injections and hyaluronic acid in skin rejuvenation, first presented through Greek TV – Mega Channel and then at the IMCAS Paris Meeting in 2011.

9th Congress of the Hellenic Society of Plastic Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery

29-31 August 2011–  (www.hespras2011.gr) For the first time we shall present two studies.

  1. Liposuction with radiofrequencies, the renown Bodytite technique
  2. How to choose the technique to be used for breast augmentation.
  3. MACS Face lift

1) Liposuction with radiofrequencies, the renown Bodytite technique
In this paper we present cases of the past 2 years, one of the extended series of cases currently in Europe.
The result we have achieved have built up our trust in this technique.
With Bodytite we may achieve

  1. Better skin contouring
  2. Minimum complications

In 2009 we were the first to embrace this revolutionary and promising new technology in liposuction. Βodytite or radiofrequency-assisted liposuction.

2) A new algorithm for choosing the pocket in breast augmentation. Our experience after 1300 cases.
There are several techniques for placing silicone implants in breast augmentation. These are:

  1. Subglandular
  2. Subfascial
  3. Submuscular
  4. Dual plane submuscular
  5. Dual plane muscle-splitting

Which one is the best?
All abovementioned techniques have their cons and pros. In this paper we present a new algorithm for choosing among all these techniques aiming for best possible and most natural result with minimum problems.
This algorithm was produced following the analysis of 1300 breast augmentation cases and is based on 3 parameters. We reach the conclusion that there are three techniques that are considered best for breast augmentation: the SubFascial, the Muscle-splitting dual plane and the Dual plane submuscular technique
For the first time, in this paper we propose an algorithm on how to select the appropriate pocket.

3) MACS Face Lift:
MACS Face Lift is a Face Lift technique in which very small incisions allow us to achieve maximum face lifting and natural result. This presentation is important as it refers to the suggested amendments for even better results.
To achieve best face lift, we need to elevate not only the skin but also the inner part of the face. This is the so-called SMAS.
MACS Face Lift involves very small incisions – photo I – and is based on the use of internal sutures for elevation of the inner part of the face.
Our amendments involve the following actions:
First – Photo I.  More extended preparation of the face.
Second – Photo II. V Smasectomy, which allows for better lift of the face.
Third – Incisions through the ear, allowing for an almost invisible scar.
The most important advantages are:

  1. Small incisions, almost invisible
  2. Natural results
  3. Maximum, long-lasting lifting
  4. Speedy recovery
  5. Minimum to no complications

The safest method with zero problems as to facial nerves

Frequently asked questions about maxi and mini abdominoplasty

The abdominoplasty procedure can help men and women with skin laxity and loose abdominal muscles get a flat stomach. The laxity may be the result of child births or weight fluctuations. When this problem is limited to the lower abdomen we can treat it with a mini abdominoplasty procedure which is less extended.

What is our goal?
With abdominoplasty we aim at fixing the abdomen aesthetically but also at improving its muscular function.

What is the preoperative procedure?
The systematic exercise of the abdominal muscles contributes to a good result post surgery, but the weight loss-in case you have excess weight- also helps. Smoking, overconsumption of alcohol, use of aspirin and vitamins two weeks before the surgery should be avoided.

How is abdominoplasty performed (techniques, description of the process)?
As mentioned above, there are two techniques: the classical abdominoplasty with which we also reposition the navel and the mini abdominoplasty with which the navel is not repositioned, the incision is smaller and the operation is shorter. In both operations the incision is made on the upper border of the pubic area. When we perform the mini abdominoplasty the incision is limited to that area. On the contrary, with the maxi abdominoplasty we can get to the border of the thighs. In any case the incisions should be hidden in your underwear or the beachwear. If required, the abdominoplasty can be combined with liposuction on the same and the surrounding areas for better results.

The type of anaesthesia
The mini abdominoplasty can be achieved with epidural anaesthesia, whereas the maxi with general anaesthesia.

How long does the operation take? How long will I stay in the hospital? Is the downtime short? And finally, when will it be safe for me to go swimming without anyone noticing any signs on my body?
It all depends on the operation and the surgeon’s experience. The mini abdominoplasty takes almost 1 hour and the maxi 2 hours. This time is longer if the tummy tuck is combined with liposuction on the affected areas.

When the abdominoplasty is completed the patient goes home the same day. In case of a maxi abdominoplasty, the patient usually stays at the hospital overnight.
After the mini abdominoplasty has finished, the downtime does not last more than 4-5 days. However, after an extended abdominoplasty which has been combined with liposuction, the downtime is longer and lasts almost 2 weeks.

The oedema and the swelling subside within 15 days and if the healing is good you will not see any signs as the incisions will be hidden in your underwear or beachwear. However, we recommend you not to swim earlier than 4 weeks, as this may affect the sutures (both internally and externally). Of course, you may have a quick swim after 2 weeks, but you must be careful: Any abrupt movements can affect the sutures.

After how long can I be exposed to the sun? How long will the result last?
Any limited and careful sun exposure is not considered to be a contraindication. However you must protect the area of the incisions which should never be exposed so early. The result is permanent as long as you maintain a healthy weight and exercise.

Are there any risks and side effects? Who should not undergo such a procedure?
The risks and the complications that may occur are generally common in all surgical procedures but they are also rare. For example they may include haematoma, inflammation, bad healing, asymmetry, accumulation of fluid, skin necrosis and very rarely deep thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.
Those suffering from serious health problems, such as diabetes, heart disease, history of embolism, obesity etc should not undergo the abdominoplasty.

What can I do about love-handles?
We call love handles those areas at the side of the waistline. They respond very well to liposuction and you have a firmer middle.

Rejuvenate your eyes, neck, cheekbones, lips, hands with just 1 injection

1.The eyes
As time passes, the face loses its volume gradually and you start noticing signs of aging around the eyes. There are hollows on the upper and lower eyelids. This problem co-exists very often with black circles. We can treat all the above with hyaluronic acid injections in these areas or even with the new generation collagen.

The ideal candidates
What kind of change will I see in my look?

The area of the eyes is rejuvenated and the look becomes more youthful and restful.

What is the procedure?
We inject carefully and superficially small doses of hyaluronic acid or of the new generation collagen.

How long does it last?
A few minutes.

What should we be aware of after the procedure?
We should not exercise.

Signs/scars
If the procedure is performed by an experienced doctor, nothing is visible.

Duration of the result
8-12 months.

2.The neck
What kind of procedures should we do for the neck?

The tightening can be achieved with anti-wrinkle and muscle relaxant injections alone or in combination with hyaruronic acid which fills the vertical lines. On the other hand, there is mesotherapy which offers hydration. When there is some localised fat-that is the double chin-we can treat that with phosphatidylcholine injections.

The ideal candidates
In the neck area there is the platysma muscle. When it contracts, it affects almost all the movements of the neck and the lower jaw. This gradually results in laxity of the neck area and the face contours. People often notice vertical bands as well as the double chin that can co-exist with skin laxity.

What will change?
We achieve the lift of sagging skin in the middle of the neck, a problem we notice even in young people. The procedure also improves the face contour targeting at an oval shape. The elimination of the double chin offers the ideal right angle of the neck profile.

What is the procedure?
We apply anti-wrinkle and muscle relaxant injections along the loose area of the platysma muscle in the neck and along the contour of the lower law (this method is called Nefertiti Lift, reminding us of Nefertiti, the queen of Egypt with an ideal neck).

How long does it last?
A few minutes.

What we should be careful about later?
You should not massage the area of where the anti-wrinkle and muscle relaxant injections were applied for 4 days.

Signs/scars
They are very few and go away in a little time.

Duration of the result
The result of the anti-wrinkle and muscle relaxant injections lasts at least 6 months and phosphatidylcholine is almost permanent.

Side effects and drawbacks
There may be some difficulty to swallow, but this is rare. Phosphatidylcholine injections cause mild swelling in the area for a few days and a feeling of “unwellness” that goes away very fast.

3.The cheekbones
What do you suggest someone to do in order to improve her cheekbones?

Skin laxity affects the tissues above the cheekbones and this makes them seem droopy. As defined cheekbones are one of the most youthful characteristics, their reconstruction rejuvenates the face.

How does this happen?
By injecting dense hyaluronic acid in the deeper layers of the skin or near the bones.

How long does this last?
15′- 20′.

What should we be aware of afterwards?
Nothing in particular.

Signs:
Maybe you have some bruising and mild swelling.

Duration of the result:
6- 12 months.

Side effects and drawbacks:
Overcorrection-use of unsuitable material.

4.The lips
What do you suggest we should do on the lips with an injection?
Hyaluronic acid and particularly its less dense formula is an ideal material, as well as the new generation collagen which is very malleable, safe and technologically advanced (the old generation drawbacks included short duration, allergic reaction, mixtures, etc).

The ideal candidates:
Those with loss of volume of the lips, asymmetry between the upper and lower lips, vertical lines leading to the lips (the smoker’s lines), marionette lines (they start from the corners of the mouth downwards).

What will change?
You will now get a more attractive shape and a better lips size. Your wrinkles around the mouth will be smoothed out rejuvenating a lot this important area of a woman’s face.

What is the process?
Injection of a special, less dense hyaluronic acid or a new generation collagen.

How long does it last?
½ hours (we use local anaesthetic cream or dental block).

What should we be aware of afterwards?
You should avoid spicy foods.

Signs
Oedema for 2 days on the lips and maybe some bruising.

How long will the result last?
6-12 months.

Side effects and drawbacks
Overcorrection –unsuitable material.

5.The hands
What kind of treatment would do suggest for the aging hands?
The loss of volume concerns our hands which seem skinny as we grow older. The injectables (hyaluronic acid) are the best solution.

The ideal candidates
Those who have skinny hands, whereas the bones and the veins are visible.

What is going to change?
The hands regain their volume and a better shape, which is much more attractive and youthful.

What is the process?
Injecting hyaluronic acid or fat under local anaesthesia.

How long does it last?
½ hours.

What should we be aware soon afterwards?
You should avoid any manual work for a few hours.

Signs:

Oedema for 2-3 days and maybe bruising.

Duration of the result

8 – 12 months.

Complications and drawbacks:

Temporarary bumps.

Low budget non-invasive facial treatments

Which are the most important low budget facial treatments? Get fast the refreshed face you want with only 1-2 sessions.

Plastic surgeons and dermatologists are armed with new “weapons” in their fight against aging, thanks to technological advances. These new tools are less invasive than before but should always be handled by experienced doctors on those patients who meet the indications. The most important thing is that the treatment is tailor-made for every person. In general, there are solutions to almost all aesthetic problems. Below we will give you some examples of a holistic approach which offers you a refreshed, natural and glowing facial skin that boosts your psychology. Who doesn’t need such a thing, especially today?

How does this happen?

Wrinkles, volume and elasticity loss: If wrinkles and loss of elasticity and volume are problems for you, the ideal treatments include a combination of injectables (anti-wrinkle and muscle relaxant injections and hyaluronic acid) with a new technique that we named Sfumato, in order to honour genious Leonardo da Vinci who used it to create his masterpieces. With this technique he created visual effects to make lines, shadows and sharp borders on the face disappear so that they looked more youthful. We aim at achieving the same thing by injecting hyaluronic acid in multiple levels, in combination with the anti-wrinkle and muscle relaxant injections. In this way we also improve the elasticity by injecting superficially a less dense hyaluronic acid product with a smart syringe in the face, neck, décolleté and hands. You will only need 1-2 visits to see a long lasting result immediately.

Dull skin: If the indication is a dull skin, mild skin laxity and tired face with signs of aging and wide pores the solution is combination therapies: The first includes 2 sessions of microdermabrasion with a diamond tip which removes painlessly the superficial skin layer offering it glow and smoothing out any wrinkles, acne scars and signs of photoaging. The second type of treatment is the new generation mesotherapy which is almost painless. The key ingredients include hyaluronic acid, antioxidants and firming agents. All of them penetrate the skin with the help of a special roller with 540 small needles. At the same time they stimulate the growth of fibroblasts and the production of collagen and elastin. The results are immediate.

On the other hand, those who want to take advantage of the natural substances that live in our body, can undergo the autologous mesotherapy (PRP). The doctor injects their own blood plasma in the problematic areas. This has proven to contribute to tissue regeneration and skin refreshment. The PRP mesotherapy can be performed on the face and the body and the result is visible immediately. The skin is firmer for up to 4 months.

Skin laxity: If skin laxity on the face, neck and body is more severe you need something more drastic. That is why we use the new generation radiofrequencies which can offer skin firmness from the first session, completely painlessly. The heat that is caused by the radiofrequencies changes the metabolism of fibroblasts resulting in collagen production. At the same time the treatment makes the fat cells shrink leading to gradual reduction of adipose tissue stores (for example double chin, reduction of the arms circumference, the thighs, etc.). You will need 4-5 sessions on the face per week, 6 on the body and 1 session to maintain the results.

A woman’s circles of life and plastic surgery

If we categorise those circles according to a woman’s age we will make three groups: 18-30, 30-40 and 45-55.

Our teen years are not usually the ideal time to undergo aesthetic operations. The body is still developing and it is worth waiting until we turn 18. Of course this is not standard, as there are cases where we should intervene earlier, when a problem affects not only a girl’s appearance but also her psychology. In these cases a doctor should have the agreement and approval of the family and a psychologist’s opinion. So, what kind of procedures are the ideal at that age? Breast reduction, liposuction, ear surgery. After a girl turns 18 years old, breast augmentation, liposuction and rhinoplasty are also very common operations.

In our 30s and 40s the first signs of aging and skin laxity are visible, women have usually become mothers and the picture is different. At these ages women ask for breast lift combined or not with abdominoplasty, liposuction (the operations that are included in what we call “Mommy Makeover”), injectables such as the anti-wrinkle and muscle relaxant injections and hyaluronic acid with laser resurfacing and any other treatments resulting in facial and body rejuvenation.

After 45 there is gradual skin laxity on the face and body and there is increased need for blepharoplasty-the so called mini facelift with neck lift- as well as for lifting and tightening procedures on the body.

In general, there is not a specific age for these operations, as the needs are customized and every woman is different. The indications are determined by specific scientific criteria in every case and by the woman’s desires and needs. Our genetic material plays a great role, as well as our lifestyle and the things that have influenced our life.