Need Your Earlobes Fixed???

One of the things I see frequently in my office is a young patient who, at one time, thought it would be a cool idea to put progressively larger ‘gauges’ in their earlobes. Over time, this results in a large hole in the earlobe which looks, well, kinda funny when the gauges are removed. Not surprisingly, this becomes an issue when these young men and women decide that it’s time to enter the job market or join the military. Frequently, these earlobe expressions of individuality will negatively impact their quest for a better job or entry into the armed services. Luckily, there is a surgery that can fix that problem – called otoplasty.

This procedure entails moving the remaining strips of earlobe tissue around in such a way to recreate a more normal appearance. The surgery is quick (usually less than 30 minutes) and performed under local anesthesia. After several months, the person can return to wearing regular earrings.

It’s not a really painful operation to have done, but you may never get the lobe back to its original shape. The procedure will frequently result in an earlobe that is smaller than what one initially had prior to gauging. But more young people are doing it. It usually takes some change in a person’s life to force them to come in and get the surgery.

Posted in Cosmetic Surgery, Gauged Earlobes, Home | No Comments »

Fat Grafts, Facelifts and Stem Cells

I have been using fat to add volume to aging faces for over 10 years. My adoption of this valuable technique was based on the impressive work done by New York cosmetic surgeon and fat-grafting pioneer Dr. Sydney Coleman. He began adding fat to aging faces over 20 years ago and noted that the grafted fat not only added much needed volume, but also reinvigorated the surrounding tissues in ways that were entirely unexpected. I started using fat, by itself and in conjunction with face lift surgery, to render a more natural and youthful facial appearance that has been traditionally missing in most facelift patients.

Since then, research has discovered that part of this rejuvenation is mediated through stem cells that are present in the injected fat. This is the basis of the newly minted moniker ‘stem cell facelift’.

There are three components to facial aging: surface aging of the skin, gravitational sagging of the skin and muscles, and loss (or atrophy) of facial fat. Chemical peels or laser resurfacing treat the skin, facelifts elevate the skin and muscles while fat transfer returns the lost volume with its attendant softness critical for a youthful looking appearance. Fat injections are artistically powerful and they add a healthier, more fit, youthful, sculpted and sensual appearance to any face that is starting to show signs of aging. The most common areas that we inject are around the eyes, in the cheeks and in the lips. Hands are another area where fat grafting gives a beautiful result.

Studies have found that fat is not just a storage organ, but a dynamic, living, functioning tissue containing multiple agents capable of repairing damaged tissue. In this case, overlying skin exposed to years of environmental abuse and the onslaught of aging are bathed in growth factors and other mediators secreted by the grafted fat and stem cells resulting in very significant improvements in texture, diminished wrinkles, smaller pores, and a rosier hue. Centrifuging the grafted fat concentrates it even further and enhances the results of the volume restoration and skin surface effects. The grafted fat that is laced with enriching stem cells ‘take root’ into their new location and exert their rejuvenative properties for years. In many cases fat injection will supplant the need for more extensive, invasive surgical procedures.

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Alzheimer’s Disease and You!!

ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE AND YOU

What is it?  Alzheimer’s, or AD, is a progressive brain disease that destroys brain cells, eventually eroding memory, thought processes and behavior until the person is no longer able to work, enjoy hobbies, or have meaningful relationships with others. It is not a normal aspect of aging.

The sixth leading cause of death in the U.S., AD is the most common form of dementia, which is the term for any type of loss of memory or thought processes that interferes with normal daily life. There is no cure for AD, but treating its symptoms can improve the quality of life and prolong the patient’s ability to function normally. Scientists are constantly working to find new and better ways to treat AD, to prevent it altogether, or to delay its onset.

‘Where did I leave my keys’ and not recognizing a close relative are two ends of the spectrum.   It sneaks up on you…. but what actually is it and when does it start?

AD can disrupt both the electrical charges and patterns and prevent neurons from functioning and interacting. Eventually, the nerve cells die, the brain shrinks, and the patient gradually loses the ability to think, learn, remember, plan and understand. Plaques, or clusters of protein, build up between neurons, and the cells contain tangles of another protein, both suspected to be instrumental in causing cell death, perhaps by preventing signals and nutrients from traveling from cell to cell. Oxidative stress induces plaque in the neurons and it is now thought that  heavy metals are the major cause, such as Aluminum and Mercury.
Some people get it and some don’t.

If my Dad had it, will I have it? It has now been determined that certain types of proteins formed in the liver called apo-lipoprotein E can determine the outcome or chance of developing AD.  If you have the E4 type you have a higher chance of developing AD than if you have the E2 type.  These values can be measured and give you an idea on how proactive you need to be regarding prevention.  If you would like to know what you are, please call us.  You will also want to have a heavy metal test to determine what heavy metals you have ‘on board’ already.

Symptoms: One of the best sites I have found that doesn’t sell anything is http://helpguide.org/elder/alzheimers_disease_symptoms_stages.htm

Suggested Alzheimer’s treatments

Interesting articles:

http://cat.inist.fr/?aModele=afficheN&cpsidt=2299989

http://www.springerlink.com/content/89ejyv6hbe8hgfc8/

http://www.jada-plus.com/cgi/content/abstract/130/2/191

http://www.asquifyde.org/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/amalgam_alzheimer_nel.pdf

http://www.biopsychology.com/news/index.php?descType=always&type=keyword&id=3&page=0

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Do mammograms cause breast cancer??

It is a well known fact that repeated exposure to radiation from any source may damage the genetic material in your cells causing them to mutate and transform into cancer cells.  These sources include cell phones, power lines, and worst of all medical tests.  Recent studies confirm that Americans get the most medical radiation in the world and the average dose per patient has grown six fold over the last few decades.  The use of risky medical imaging techniques such as  CT scans, chest x-rays and mammograms  have soared over  the last decade and are the direct result of a medical health care system that over tests and over treats (see article).

Radiation is a hidden danger — you don’t feel it when you get it, and any damage usually doesn’t show up for years. Taken individually, tests that use radiation pose little risk. Over time, though, the dose accumulates.

Mammograms represent a huge source of radiation to our female population and a recent statement from Cornell University’s Program on Breast Cancer and Environmental Risk Factors suggests that they can result in the formation of breast cancer….the very disease many medical experts have claimed for years that mammograms prevent!  The experts in the Cornell study state that female breast tissue is highly susceptible to the negative effects of radiation and further note that radiation is known cause of breast cancer.

Researchers at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab) have discovered that radiation exposure can alter a cells’ environment and that greatly increases  the odds that future cells will become cancerous.

A report published in the Archives of Internal Medicine showed that after screening mammography programs were begun throughout Europe an increased incidence of breast cancer was noted.  A Johns Hopkins study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute concluded that radiation exposure from mammograms could trigger malignancies in women at risk for breast cancer.

Finally, a US government task force announced in November of 2009 that mammograms are overused and potentially harmful and that they should be used far less than currently recommended by the medical establishment.

The Texas Institute of Functional Medicines recommends the increased use of breast thermal imaging and physical exam followed by a breast MRI if necessary (which does not expose patients to radiation) to monitor breast health.  Breast thermal imaging is based on the principle that vascular activity in precancerous and cancerous tissues is frequently increased and can be detected.

Posted in Anti-Aging Medicine, Breast Health, Home | No Comments »

COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT GYNECOMASTIA (Moobs)

1. What is Gynecomastia? 

Gynecomastia is the development of excess breast tissue in men.  It can occur at any age and is most commonly seen in teenage males going through puberty.  It generally last less than two years but can persist and cause significant embarrassment.

Gynecomastia can also occur in adult men.  Know causes include drugs such as digitalis, anabolic steroids, tagamet, alcohol and marijuana.  Obesity can be a significant contributor to the condition. The cause of most cases of gynecomastia is, however, unknown.  It is estimated that 40-60% of men have suffered from ‘man boobs’ (moobs). 

2.  What should I do if I suspect that I have gynecomastia?

You need to consult with a physician to determine the cause and rule out any potential serious medical conditions such as diseases of the liver, endocrine system or cancer.  This usually is determined with a simple history and physical exam.  Occasionally, blood tests may be necessary.

3.  How is gynecomastia treated?

 That really depends on the severity of your particular problem.  Simple gynecomastia may respond to weight loss or liposuction.  Mixed gynecomastia is more typical and requires both liposuction of the fat component and surgical excision of the enlarged breast bud through a small incision along the lower border of the nipple.  More advanced cases may require additional resection of skin similar to a breast lift.

 4.  Will I need to be admitted to a hospital?

No.  Dr. Light performs surgery in an on-site surgical facility at the Dallas based Texas Institute of Functional Medicines.  The surgery usually takes less than 1 hour

 5.  What kind of anesthesia is used?

This procedure is easily done under IV sedation using local anesthesia only.  General anesthesia not necessary.  The advantage is a safer, less expensive surgery with a quicker recovery.  The Texas Institute of Functional Medicines has several board certified anesthesiologists on staff.

 6.  When can I return to exercise?

Most patients may begin light exercise in 14 days and resume full activity in one month.  During this time it is necessary to wear a compression vest (not as bad as it sounds) underneath your shirt to help minimize swelling and fluid accumulation and support your healing chest.

 7.  How long do the results last?

The improvement is permanent, but weight gain or the use of certain drugs could result in recurrence.

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Mercury, Cancer and Chronic Disease

It appears as if the connection between mercury and chronic diseases, including cancers, is getting ever stronger and more apparent.

Dr. Rashid Buttar recently testified before congress that the association of mercury with chronic diseases is well documented in the scientific literature. Over 1000 research papers demonstrate a strong connection between mercury and cardiovascular disease or cancer. It has been shown that mercury rapidly depletes the immune system. Anything that disturbs the immune system will increase one’s chances of contracting cancer.

The March newsletter of the International Medical Veritas Association reports that heavy metals contribute to carcinogenesis by inducing oxidative stress, causing DNA mutations which promote cancer. Heavy metals also disrupt the process of apoptosis (programmed cell death), which is vital for safe removal of sick and unhealthy cells, including cells that may become cancerous.

Each year in the U.S. an estimated 40 tons of mercury are used to prepare mercury-amalgam dental restorations (silver fillings). Scientific studies have concluded that the amalgam is the source for more than two thirds of the mercury in our human population. On a daily basis each amalgam releases on the order of 10 micrograms of mercury into the body. This mercury either accumulates in the body or is excreted via urine and feces into our wastewater systems.  Mercury from amalgam fillings has been shown to be neurotoxic, embryotoxic, mutagenic, teratogenic, and immunotoxic according to Dr. Robert Gammal.  “There is no safe level of mercury, and no one has actually shown that there is a safe level,” said Dr. Lars Friberg, Chief Adviser to the WHO on mercury safety.

The message is loud and clear. Heavy metal toxicity in general and mercury build up in particular is part and parcel of living in an industrialized western society. While it is difficult to escape exposure, there are effective ways to purge our systems of these toxic and dangerous elements. Heavy metal detox (chelation therapy) is a powerful tool employed by TIFM to chemically bind these toxins and remove them from the body. No other therapy even comes close in detoxifying the body of these harmful agents. For more information, read http://winningcancer.com/index.php/2010/03/heavy-metals-mercury-and-cancer/ .

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Dallas Anti-Aging Clinic Helps Fight Cardiovascular Disease

62 million Americans have some form of cardiovascular disease – this includes high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, stroke and congestive heart failure.  Most people are unaware that cardiovascular disease was almost unheard of 150 years ago.  What has changed over the last 150 years?   Unprecedented
stress in our lives, little or no exercise, obesity, an environment filled with synthetic industrial toxins, a diet of fast food or processed foods with no nutritional value packed with antibiotics, pesticides and preservatives.   Research has shown that it is the ‘oxidized’ (or rancid) portion of LDL cholesterol that is the culprit injuring the cardiovascular system.  Compounds such as phospatidylcholine and deoxycholic acid (PC/DC for short) decreases the ability of cholesterol to inflict harm and aids in removing cholesterol from vessels while inhibiting potentially problematic platelet aggregation.  These compounds can halt and in some cases reverse plaque formation that clogs blood vessels and causes all sorts of terrible problems.

Armed with this information, a prudent individual may be compelled to reshape their    cardiovascular destiny.  Take a little time to relax and smell the roses;  be selfish and set aside 30 minutes a day to go for a walk and enjoy the glorious Texas weather;  eat ‘healthy’  foods that you make yourself from unprocessed, unpackaged foods;  reverse some of the damage already done to your body and re-set your biological clock.  How do you do that?

We offer a powerful intervention for the time strapped patient to help reclaim a healthy body.  We call it the ‘Quick Cardio’ treatment.  This in an IV infusion of PC/DC that takes only 20 minutes.  Our patients stop by early in the morning before work, during lunch or after work making this an exceptionally quick and convenient way to preserve and regain your cardiovascular health.  Most our patients get one a week for 6 weeks.  Research has confirmed the effectiveness of dissolving harmful cholesterol plaques away with IV therapy.  This is now available to our patients.

Start now…………life is short.  Add life to your years and live healthy.

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Fluff Your Face with Fat – A Modern Alternative For Those Considering Facelifts

It is interesting how something that is generally accepted as an undisputed fact today becomes a glaring example of  disordered thinking tomorrow.  Take, for instance,  rejuvenation of the face.  For decades, it appeared as if the main reason that we aged in the face was due to the relentless affects of gravity……….constantly tugging on our face (and other bodily parts) resulting in a tired, droopy sagging appearance.  The remedy, practiced by the leaders in the industry, was to surgically ‘take up the slack’ with a facelift in an effort to returns things to their youthful location.  Although the result was frequently an improved appearance, the patient just didn’t look natural…….didn’t look like themselves.  Recently, lots of photographic studies of patients followed for decades have revealed that the face really doesn’t fall at all.  In fact, the face deflates!!!

Just like a beach ball that has lost it’s air, the face loses fat over time and looses it’s puff.  Re-inflation results in a natural lifted appearance that actually looks like the patient used to in the past.  Enter fat grafting.  A youthful face is a plump face…and fat is just what the doctor ordered to regain those attractive facial curves.  Fat is natural, non-allergenic, soft and usually there is plenty of it around!!  Better yet, fat can be extracted and stored (frozen) for later use should a touch up or two be desired.  You may still need a surgical tweak here and there, especially around the eyes or on the neck, but many times fat transfer to the face will eliminate the need for surgery altogether.

Fat can be used anywhere in the face.  The fat is ‘liberated’ from unwelcome stubborn locations and inserted via tiny little micro-needles into the lips, cheeks, smile lines and around the eyes.  Many surgeons have stopped doing brow lifts completely and have shifted to using fat transfer to the brow exclusively to lift a saggy brow with great results.  It is a simple, outpatient procedure done under local anesthesia with conscious sedation……….this results in far less surgical risk and a quick recovery.

But wait, there’s more!  Fat can be used in the hands, in the butt for that J-Lo look or placed under ‘divots and dents’ on your legs or your derriere.  Many times the process of ‘harvesting’ the fat results in effective liposuction of the donor area.  What a deal.

The trick is to find a surgeon proficient in this technique.  Many old dogs are slow to learn new tricks, and frequently surgeons will stick with what they know best and has ‘worked’ for them in the past.  I have performed these procedures for over a decade and have a wide range of experience.  If you think that you may be a candidate for fat transfer, come and talk with me and together we will explore your options in reclaiming that youthful appearance.

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Hang On Texas – Allergy Season is Here with a Vengeance

Fort Worth and Dallas were the two worst cities in the country suffering from allergies recently with pollen counts nearly off the charts reaching all time highs.  According to a recent article in the Star Telegram, things are going to go from bad to worse.  The biggest offender is mold, with grasses and trees right behing them.  Apparently, the cause lies in the fact that winter lasted 10 days longer than usual, delaying the plants that typicaly bloom earlier.  This results in everything blooming all at once – we have entered Spring with a bang. 

The easiest way to deal with the pollen onslaught is avoidance.  Stay indoors as much as possible.  Especially on dry, windy days.  Keep your car windows up and convertible tops down.  Try not to drag pollen into your home by changing your clothes when you get home and showering.  Keep the pets inside.

Frequently prevention is not enough.  Most people then will resort to a pharmaceutical agent such as Benadryl, Zyrtec and allergy shots to try to turn the overactive immune response off.  These drugs may be somewhat effective yet carry with them a whole host of side effects.  There is a better way.

At the Texas Institute of Functional Medicines (TIFM) we take a more natural, integrative approach.  ImmunoStim IV’s contain high doses of Vitamin C and other very effective, non-reactive anti-allergen agents.   Allergens such as pollen wreak havoc by stimulating the immune system to secrete huge levels of histamines resulting in itchy eyes, coughs, sneezes and general misery.  Vitamin C is a very powerful, safe anti-histamine that has many other beneficial long term health effects.  Our patients have found that our ImmunoStim IV therapies are very effective and essentially free of side effects.  They also are powerful anti-oxidants and bolster the immune system to fight off infections from viruses and bacteria.  Relief is just a phone call away.

So, don’t surrender to seasonal misery.  Let TIFM rescue you.  Call us now at 972-661-8436.

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