2012

Invitation to Our February 9, 2012 Peel Event

Aesthetician Jennifer Geyer

invites you to our

February 9th Peel Event!

For more information about chemical peels click here
or call 817.921.5566 and speak with our aesthetician, Jennifer Geyer.

APPOINTMENT REQUIRED
Call Ethridge Plastic Surgery at 817.921.5566
Invite a friend!

2011

2011 Winter Specials

Posted on Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Give Yourself a Guilt-Free Gift This Holiday Season!

Take advantage of our fabulous, limited-time fallDon't dread that holiday party...Look merry and bright this holiday season with our winter specials!specials:

25% off any surgical procedure
35% off a second surgical procedure

(Applies to surgeon's fees only.
Must be booked by November 30, 2011)

$600 off tummy tucks

(Applies to surgeon's fees only.
Must be booked by November 30, 2011)

Refer a friend and receive $100 credit

(credit given following completed procedure)

Call 817.921.5566 to book your appointment today or book online!

Offers expire November 30, 2011.

Age is Only a Number: A Look at Cosmetic Procedures for Each Decade

Has a certain element of your features always troubled you? Do you think you look older than you feel,
or are you frustrated by the changes that come with aging? Are you a mother for whom no amount
of diet or physical training seems to restore your pre-pregnancy shape? Or maybe you’re a professional
who could benefit from a fresh approach?

Whether you’re in your 20s or your 60s, cosmetic surgery may be an excellent option for you. The purpose
of cosmetic surgery is not to make you into a new person or to completely change your appearance;
instead, it’s all about highlighting your best characteristics and letting you shine through by making
subtle adjustments that can significantly improve your self-confidence and sense of personal well-being.

Thousands of people in the United States – men and women, young and old – make the decision to have plastic surgery every year, recognizing benefits to their personal and professional lives.

Of the most popular procedures, some become more appropriate with age, physical or lifestyle changes;
many can occur at any time, giving an individual patient’s circumstances. This article lists the ideal ages for procedures, but keep in mind that these numbers reflect only the numerical age of the majority of patients who benefit from a particular surgery; each patient presents an individual case, and cosmetic surgery is
often an option no matter which birthday is around the corner. Also, no decision to undergo surgery is
taken lightly. Any surgery poses risks. Discuss your options with your physician.

First, ideal candidates for plastic surgery at any age are:

• Healthy adults over age 18 (Before age 18, your body continues to change and grow, 
   potentially affecting otherwise permanent cosmetic surgery.)
• Non-smokers
• Close to ideal body weight (within 30%)
• In good physical health
• In good psychological health
• Able to maintain a healthy lifestyle
• Realistic in expectations of cosmetic surgery (Discuss these expectations with your surgeon.)
• Looking to improve self-image (how you perceive and think about yourself)

Then, if you meet these initial criteria, consider your options. We’ve grouped common procedures
for each decade here.

In Your 20s
If you’re in your 20s, your face and body have largely finished developing, so you can begin considering cosmetic surgery. Breast augmentation or reduction are the most common procedures for women
in their 20s. Breast augmentation can boost self-esteem, make it easier to wear certain styles of clothing,
and contribute to a general sense of satisfaction with your personal appearance. Both saline and silicone implants are available and approved by the FDA; you can discuss your best option with your doctor. Given realistic patient expectations, breast augmentation can augment your body’s natural proportions,
increasing your sense of well-being and self-confidence. For this reason, breast augmentation is one
of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures in the United States.

For women who wish to reduce breast size, breast reduction is an excellent way to relieve the physical discomfort that may accompany very large breasts.

If you are pregnant, intending to become pregnant, or nursing, you may want to delay any breast-related surgery. Breasts almost always change with childbirth, and breast surgery can affect your ability to breastfeed. To ensure that you’re pleased with the lasting appearance of your breasts post-surgery,
it may better to delay.

Another popular cosmetic surgery option for your 20s is nasal shaping (rhinoplasty). Even minor changes
to your nasal shape can improve and enhance overall facial harmony, increasing self-confidence. Rhinoplasty
is a fairly complex surgery and requires significant preoperative planning, but you can work with your
doctor to ensure that you’re satisfied with your results.

“30 Is The New 20”
As you move into your 30s, you’ll probably begin to notice the first signs of aging, especially the development of fine lines and wrinkles in your face, which can age you unnecessarily or make you look tired. Facial fillers and muscle relaxants (like Botox® and Dysport®) are an excellent option for facial rejuvenation: they’ll
soften lines and wrinkles and prevent those lines from deepening over time. A typical Botox® treatment
takes only ten minutes to complete. requires no recovery, and the effects usually last for about four months. This is a simple, effective way to correct frown lines and other fine lines and wrinkles that can age people beyond their years.

Often, the most noticeable fine lines begin around the mouth, a result of the decreasing lip plumpness that occurs with age. Lip augmentation is a great way to achieve a natural, healthy, youthful look while
diminishing fine lines. It’s another simple, non-surgical procedure that produces temporary but significant results and can make you look and feel years younger.

“Lordy, Lordy, Look Who’s 40!”
Most women in their 40s are no longer having children, but they may be working, leading busy professional lives, and looking after their children. Mothers in their 40s want to look good and stay fit, but sometimes childbearing can take its toll on a woman’s body with effects that no amount of diet or exercise can change. Many women find that their bodies change forever because of pregnancy and childbirth, and they aren’t always pleased with the transformation. “Mommy Makeovers” are becoming an increasingly popular
option for a growing number of mothers; the term usually describes a combination of plastic surgery procedures that restore a woman’s self-confidence and pride in her appearance. Preferred procedures
often include:

• Breast augmentation, reduction, and/or lift
• Tummy tuck
• Lift for inner and/or outer thigh
• Facelift or facial rejuvenation (Botox® or fillers)

A “mommy makeover” should be considered only by women who do not anticipate having more children.

“Fit at 50”
As you reach your 50s, you may be troubled by “problem areas” – areas that perhaps you’ve targeted with diet and exercise throughout your life that simply do not respond. Often, the tendency to add weight in a certain region is genetic; you may be in good health and have a strong level of fitness that is simply not revealed by your body contour. Liposuction can be a very effective way to address these problem areas, giving you the kickstart you need to achieve the shape you’ve been working for. Liposuction should not be used as a substitute for weight loss, and it offers no guarantee against future weight gain. It’s safest and often most effective when used to remove small amounts of fat. Often, liposuction patients will elect to follow their liposuction treatment with a skin-tightening surgery, like a breast lift, tummy tuck, or facelift, to
achieve optimal results.

“Style at 60”
Healthy people in their 60s are good candidates for a range of cosmetic surgery procedures. Facial fillers
(like Restylane®, Juvederm®, Radiesse®, and Artefill®) restore a healthy, full look to the face and lips, replacing the facial tissues that diminish or redistribute with age. While facial fillers are not a permanent solution (results typically last six to 25 months), they can make a significant difference in your appearance without appearing unnatural. Facial filler procedures are simple, safe, and performed by your physician at
the clinic.

For a more permanent reinvigoration of facial appearance, patients may choose to have a facelift, a
procedure that corrects the lines, wrinkles, and sagging tissues that are a natural consequence of aging. Facelifts shouldn’t make you look “fake” or “stretched”; in fact, an excellent plastic surgeon will ensure that your facelift simply enhances your own natural features and beauty, giving you a more youthful, healthy appearance. Localized facial cosmetic surgeries – eyelid reshaping (blepharoplasty), for example – can
also have a remarkable effect on your appearance, giving you a more youthful and energetic appearance.

All cosmetic surgery procedures are generally approved for good candidates, though as you age, recovery
time may be more of a consideration. Especially with today’s minimally invasive techniques, even minor cosmetic surgeries can significantly improve your self-confidence by turning back the clock, revealing your
own natural beauty, and making you look as young as you feel. Your physician can help you determine the best approach and timing for you, given your individual goals and expectations.

Join Us for "BOTOX® & Bling for Breast Cancer"
5:00 - 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 29, 2011

Richard T. Ethridge, M.D., P.A. invites you to

BOTOX & Bling for Breast Cancer
Thursday, September 29, 2011
5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
at Dean-Kingston (821 Foch Street in Fort Worth’s West 7th shopping corridor)

Proceeds will go to the Breast Cancer 3-Day, benefiting Susan G. Komen for the Cure®
and the National Philanthropic Trust Breast Cancer Fund.

During this exclusive evening...

• Purchase BOTOX® and i-lipo™ vouchers at a discounted rate.
  (Vouchers are available exclusively at this event and must be purchased during the evening.)
  
• Book a cosmetic procedure consultation and receive a 10% discount on surgeon’s fees!
  Dr. Ethridge will donate an additional 10% to Susan G. Komen for the Cure®.
• Check out the new fall line of handcrafted Merrick jewelry; browse Blue Eye Brown Eye
  custom letterpress stationery, greeting cards, and more; and peruse Dean-Kingston
  merchandise (men and women’s clothing and accessories).
• Enjoy light refreshments and complimentary chair massages.
• Register for door prizes and take home a goodie bag.

Free. Ladies and gentlemen welcome. Bring a friend!
RSVP REQUIRED: 817.921.5566

"Lunch 'n' Learn" About Common Breast Procedures with Dr. Ethridge

11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 21, 2011

In this casual, small group setting, Dr. Ethridge will give overviews about breast augmentation,
lifts, and reductions, and answer questions ---all during your lunch break (lunch provided)!

Topics covered include:

• breast procedures- augmentations, lifts, reductions
• candidate criteria
• what to expect at an initial consultation
• procedure costs and insurance coverage
• side effects, risks, and recovery time
• final appearance and duration of results

Make your reservations today! See invitation below for additional details.

Click here or anywhere on the invitation to register via email
or call Mona Pyle, practice manager, at 817-921-5566.

(Please like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter, too!)

It's Summertime...Show That Skin!

Wrinkle release

$50 off Botox

(one area/20 units for $250; regularly $300)

Bonus: With any Botox treatment,
receive a $100 gift certificate towards
your next product purchase or procedure.

Trim the fat

Purchase an i-lipo package, get two free sessions

(Savings of $400 - $500)

Fill'er up

Buy one vial of filler, get one half-off

Restylane® or Juvederm®

(amount of filler required varies based
on filler product and number of areas treated)

Bonus: With any filler treatment,
receive a $100 gift certificate towards
your next product purchase or procedure.

Call 817.921.5566 to book your appointment today or book online!

Offer expires August 31, 2011.

Dr. Ethridge Honored as a Member of the Fort Worth Business Press 2011 40 Under 40 Class

Beyond the Cutting Edge: i-Lipo and Minimally Invasive Liposuction

Interested in liposuction but squeamish about the concept
or uninterested in facing a scalpel? Worried about the
possible risks or not sure if you’re a candidate for traditional lipo, but want to address troublesome areas that persist despite diet and exercise? New groundbreaking
developments in liposuction technology, including new procedures that don’t even require an incision, are changing the face of plastic surgery.

Traditional liposuction is one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures in the United States, but it has a fairly
long recovery time and can only be performed on certain
areas of the body. Now, the benefits of liposuction – inch loss and better body contour – are available through minimally-invasive procedures called laser liposuction and a new technology called “intelligent lipo,” or “i-lipo™.” Not only do these treatments have a far shorter recovery time, they can
be used to contour parts of body (like the neck and arms) that cannot be treated with traditional liposuction, and they’re often a better option for those with mild to moderate amounts of excess fat and skin laxity.

There are a few commonalities shared by traditional liposuction, laser liposuction, and i-Lipo: first, liposuction is not a treatment for obesity. Liposuction candidates should be within 20% of their target weight, in good physical condition, and have healthy muscle tone. Make sure you’re a good candidate for any plastic surgery procedure by discussing your current health status, expectations, and goals with your plastic surgeon.

How does i-Lipo work?
i-Lipo is a highly advanced approach to body contouring. Though it’s described as a type of liposuction,
there is no incision required. Instead, i-Lipo uses a “cold” laser to stimulate natural body processes, eliminating stored fat at a safe and healthy rate. i-Lipo is a painless outpatient procedure requiring no anesthesia and no downtime. The i-Lipo machine (four “pads” about the size of a postcard) emits lasers
that open the pores of individual fat cells, through which the fat cell contents (converted from triglycerides
to fatty acids and glycerol) escape. The cell contents are processed by the lymphatic system so they can
be metabolized during exercise, in much the same way as you process a meal. Metabolism of the fat cell contents permanently eliminates them from your body, leaving smaller and fewer fat cells.

Do the i-Lipo lasers affect healthy tissue?
i-Lipo does not affect neighboring structures such as skin, blood vessels and peripheral nerves.

Does fat circulate around my body, and is that bad?
i-Lipo does not release triglycerides into the body’s circulatory systems; it releases fatty acids, a normal metabolite transported around the body. Also, after each meal you eat, your circulatory system handles
higher concentrations of fatty acids and glycerol. Basically, the fat released in i-Lipo and the fat consumed
as a part of your daily diet both enter the circulatory system in a similar manner, albeit from two separate sites, and are processed in a similar manner.

What should I expect during an i-Lipo procedure?

Each procedure takes about 10 to 15 minutes. This is a totally painless procedure. The i-Lipo pads are
placed on the target areas, and the patient will feel only a slight warmth. Target areas may include calves, knees, thighs, buttocks, stomach, arms, and chin. To see maximum results, patients should treat each area
up to eight times, preferably at regular intervals (approximately twice per week). Additionally, patients
should follow i-Lipo treatments with exercise in order to metabolize the freed fat cell contents. In combination with a healthy diet and exercise lifestyle following your treatments, i-Lipo is a safe, painless, and effective
way to achieve inch loss and body contouring without undergoing surgery. View i-Lipo video

How does i-Lipo compare to “minimally-invasive liposuction”?

Another option for improving your body contour is minimally-invasive liposuction, known as laser liposuction
or laser-assisted lipolysis, introduced in 2007. It’s an increasingly popular procedure. Laser liposuction uses
a cannula (the tube used in traditional liposuction) in combination with a fiber optic laser inserted through
a very small incision (usually no longer than 3mm, smaller than the diameter of a pencil eraser). The lasers used here heat fat cells until they reach a viscous, semi-solid state, at which point they’re more easily removed via the cannula. As in traditional liposuction, the plastic surgeon first injects fluid into the area to
the treated – a mixture of saline, local anesthetic, and epinephrine (which constricts blood vessels to
minimize blood loss). The procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia, though sedation anesthesia may be required for more extensive procedures. Most patients require only
one treatment for each area; a session may last from 30 minutes to two hours depending on the size of the treatment area. Laser liposuction offers the contouring benefits of traditional liposuction with less bleeding, less swelling, and a faster recovery time.

One additional benefit of laser liposuction may be a firmer skin tone, achieved through the stimulation of collagen production by laser energy.

Like i-Lipo, laser liposuction can target areas too delicate for traditional liposuction; typical treatment areas include the thighs, abdomen, arms, knees, face, neck, and back. Minimally invasive liposuction is also a
popular choice for reducing the appearance of gynecomastia (excess male breast tissue).

What can I expect after an i-Lipo or minimally-invasive liposuction procedure?
You should notice a better silhouette and profile. In some cases, results are immediately apparent, while
in others, you may wait up to a week or two to see results. (Traditional liposuction results are usually visible
in two to four weeks). Whereas i-Lipo causes no swelling, laser liposuction may produce some swelling
which should diminish quickly; your plastic surgeon may recommend you wear a compression garment for some period of time to aid healing. You may see tighter skin within several weeks to months; the long time frame here is the result of the time it takes your body to produce new collagen, which gives the skin its
tighter appearance.

Both laser liposuction and i-Lipo provide an important alternative to traditional lipo, giving patients the freedom to opt for treatment without the burden of a long recovery time. Minimally-invasive procedures
are further refined every day, enabling a wider range of patients to address a wider range of issues.

Questions about minimally-invasive liposuction or i-Lipo? Call us to talk about your options or to
schedule your consultation.

Dr. Ethridge Named a 2011 Top Doc in Cosmetic Surgery and Plastic/Reconstructive Surgery

Congratulations to Dr. Ethridge!  He has been selected by his peers as a 2011 Top Doc for the third

consecutive year in a row.

The Top Docs list is published in the April 2011 issue of Fort Worth, Texas Magazine.

Join Us for a Free "Lunch 'n' Learn" About Cosmetic Facial Procedures

Thursday, March 24, 2011, 11:00 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. or 12:30 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.

In this casual, small group setting, Dr. Ethridge will give an overview of facelifts and facial aesthetics,
and answer questions ---all during your lunch break (lunch provided)!

Topics covered include:

• Procedures – facelifts and facial aesthetics including brow lifts, eyelid surgery,
   lip augmentation, facial fillers, and Botox®
• Ideal age for facial procedures
• What to expect at an initial consultation
• Procedure costs and insurance coverage
• Side effects, risks, and recovery time
• Expectations for resulting appearance and duration of results

See invitation below for additional details. Then, select the session that you'd like to attend
(11:00 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. or 12:30 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.) and contact us to make your reservation today!
Click here or anywhere on the invitation to register via email or call Mona at 817-921-5566.

See you there!

Also, be sure to "like" Ethridge Plastic Surgery on Facebook: www.facebook.com/DrEthridge

Happy New Year! 40% Off Skincare Products

To help start your new year off looking and feeling your best, we are offering 40% off of all skincare products during January only!

40% Off Skincare Products

OBAGI skincare
C -Rx
Nu-Derm
Clenziderm M.D.
RosaClear
Elastiderm Eye Treatment

NIA 24 skincare*

Sun Damage Prevention
Eye Repair Complex
*limited quantities available

Stop by our office today to take advantage of this special offer.
Offer expires 1/31/2011
Questions? Contact Mona Pyle at 817-921-5566 or mpyle@drethridge.com.

2010

2010 Holiday Specials

2010 Holiday Specials

Botox: $13 per unit & Dysport $4 per unit

Juvederm, Restylane, Prevelle Silk: Buy one syringe get the second half-off

Sculptra: 10% off

Skin care products: 20% off

Offer expires 12/31/2010

Can’t Get Rid of that Frown? We Have Solutions to Make You Smile.

What’s the most important thing you wear? It’s your expression.

That’s because we communicate through facial expressions: smiling, laughing, and frowning, all important emotional indicators that speak just as much as words. As we age, repetitive facial expressions often begin to change facial skin itself, giving us “laugh lines” or “frown lines.” While these lines or wrinkles contribute to the character of your individual face, they can also age you unnecessarily, making you look older, stressed, or tired, and taking attention away from your smile or your eyes.

While creams or topical treatments can slow these signs of aging, their effects are too often negligible. So for those who want to take more significant measures to lessen the impact of lines and wrinkles, there are numerous other non-surgical treatments available.

For example, with a few simple injections from a qualified physician or aesthetician, patients can experience decreased lines and wrinkles and gain a smoother skin appearance for up to two years, depending on the substance injected. The two most widely-used injections – facial fillers and muscle relaxants – work in
different ways and can be used in combination. These treatments are usually designed for patients ages 18
to 65. Your doctor will review your goals and expectations with you in a detailed consultation, then determine which treatment is best for you.

Here are some details.

Facial Rejuvenation Procedures

Muscle Relaxants
Muscle relaxants are most commonly used to treat the “frown lines” on the forehead between the eyes, known as glabellar lines. When you concentrate, frown, or squint into the sun, powerful brow muscles cause the skin to furrow. Over time, these furrows can develop into wrinkles that are visible even when the brow muscles are relaxed. This can cause even relatively young people to look unduly stressed, angry, or tired. Injecting a muscle relaxant directly into these muscles enables them to relax, smoothing your skin. Although you will not be able to furrow your brow to the same extent, you’ll otherwise retain a full range of facial expressions, allowing you to freely express yourself without the worry of causing or deepening wrinkles.

Muscle relaxant treatments generally last about four months, and patients may wish to repeat treatment
to retain full results. Botox® Cosmetic and Dysport®, described below, are the two most common muscle relaxant treatments.

Botox® Cosmetic (Botulinum Toxin Type A)
The most well-known muscle relaxant treatment for facial skin is Botox® Cosmetic (Botulinum Toxin Type A). Approved by the FDA in 2002 to treat facial wrinkles, Botox® Cosmetic is a highly effective treatment for brow lines and wrinkles. It consists of a purified protein administered in
a simple, nonsurgical procedure: tiny amounts of Botox® Cosmetic are injected directly into the brow muscles responsible for furrowing the skin. A typical treatment takes only ten minutes to complete and requires no recovery, and patients usually see results within one to two days. The injected Botox® blocks the release of acetylcholine (the chemical that causes the forehead muscles to contract), enabling the muscles to relax. Skin appears smoother immediately, and without the usual skin furrowing, lines will gradually soften. The cost per treatment is usually between $300 and $500, and results typically last for four months.

Dysport® Cosmetic (Botulinum Toxin Type A)
Approved by the FDA in 2009 for cosmetic use, Dysport® is an increasingly popular choice for facial rejuvenation. Like Botox®, Dysport® is administered as a series of injections in the forehead muscles and between the eyes, disabling most activity in the muscles responsible for brow furrowing and smoothing away frown lines and wrinkles. Treatment with Dysport® usually takes 10 to 20 minutes and is a simple, effective, non-surgical way to correct the frown lines that can age people beyond their years.

Facial Fillers
For patients with lines and wrinkles especially around the nose and mouth, facial fillers may be a desirable treatment. As we age, underlying facial tissues are redistributed, often creating lines from the nose to
mouth (called laugh lines or nasolabial folds) and from the mouth to chin (called marionette lines). Other
facial tissues in the cheekbones and lips may also lose volume. Facial fillers are used to restore a healthy,
full, and youthful look to the face and lips.

As they’re most commonly used, facial fillers:

• Soften facial creases, fine lines, and wrinkles
• Improve the appearance of recessed scars, including acne scars
• Enhance cheekbones to give more definition
• Plump thin lips for a fuller, softer appearance
• Correct lip deformities or asymmetry
• Fill in hollows under the eyes that contribute to dark circles

There are many different fillers available, including artificial fillers and autologous fat. In general, fillers
are differentiated by their thickness and longevity. Thicker fillers soften creases more noticeably for longer periods of time but are more likely to shift or clump, whereas thinner fillers pose less risk for clumping but
may need more frequent re-injection.

Common facial fillers include these options, listed here with a brief description of their typical uses:

Restylane® / Juvederm®
These soft tissue fillers are viscoelastic gels made of hyaluronic acid that allow quick and noticeable corrections without the need of a skin test. They are injected just under the skin's surface at intervals along the wrinkle until the right amount is achieved. Soft tissue fillers can
be used to "fill" and smooth out deep facial furrows, acne scars, and smile lines. They can also
be used to enhance the border of the lips for those who desire a fuller look. Treatments take less than half an hour, and may require a local anesthetic to numb the area.

Radiesse®
Radiesse® is an FDA-approved soft tissue filler that is made up of smooth calcium hydroxyl appetite microspheres suspended in an aqueous gel that remains soft and malleable long after injection. Because calcium is a natural mineral found in our bones, it will not cause any allergic reactions and is completely biodegradable. As the body will grow natural tissue around the crystals, the results can last as long as one to two years. Radiesse® is an ideal filler substance for the improvement of laugh lines and marionette lines, as well as general volume restoration
of the face. Radiesse® is also an excellent choice for contouring and correction of bumps on the nose to achieve a smoother profile.

ArteFill®
ArteFill® is the first and only FDA-approved non-resorbable injectable filler for the correction of nasolabial folds. It contains 20% tiny round and smooth particles (PMMA microspheres) and 80% purified bovine collagen gel with 0.3% lidocaine (an anesthetic). ArteFill® visibly corrects wrinkles, then its microspheres provide the permanent support your skin needs to prevent further wrinkling.

Fat Injections
Fat injections are often used to fill in volume deficiencies or fill in scars. This procedure is performed on an outpatient basis with local anesthetic. The donor site is injected with lidocaine and fat is harvested. The extra fluid is removed and the concentrated fat is then injected into the area. Due to the normal reabsorption process, the treatment area is slightly overfilled with the understanding that it will resolve over time to give the final appropriate volume.

Most patients can resume normal activities soon after the treatment is performed. A small amount of swelling is expected at both the donor and treatment sites and should resolve within the first 48 hours. Fat injections can be used to fill irregular scars on any portion of the body.
Just as with the other fillers, fat injection is not a permanent solution and requires a regular maintenance regimen.

In summary, you can improve appearance and vitality!

Muscle relaxants and other facial fillers can markedly improve the appearance of wrinkles, creases, and give increased youthfulness to patients by restoring face and lip volume. All treatments, however, are temporary, and must be repeated at intervals to retain treatment results. Nonetheless, facial fillers and muscle relaxants offer affordable, non-surgical ways to improve the appearance and vitality of your face while allowing your natural expressiveness to shine through. These procedures are some of the most commonly performed cosmetic procedures in the country.

If you’re considering treatment, schedule a consultation appointment with Dr. Ethridge to discuss your questions and decide what’s right for you.

BOTOX®, Bags, & Bling for Breast Cancer

Richard T. Ethridge, M.D., P.A. is joining forces with Fort Worth boutique A. Hooper & Co. and Dallas-based accessory designer Bobby Schandra to host BOTOX®, Bags, and Bling for Breast Cancer on Thursday, September 16, 2010 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at A. Hooper, 4601 West Freeway, Fort Worth, in Chapel Hill Shopping Center.

A percentage of the proceeds will support the Breast Cancer 3-Day, a 60-mile walk scheduled for November 5 through 7, 2010 in Dallas/Fort Worth to benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure® and the National Philanthropic Trust Breast Cancer Fund.

Dr. Ethridge will provide BOTOX injection treatments for only $10 per unit (a reduced rate), with scheduled appointments during the evening. Typical treatments utilize 10 to 40 units per treatment area.

Making his Fort Worth debut and showcasing his latest fall line of handbags and jewelry at this exclusive fundraising event, Bobby Schandra will present a selection of accessories. His designs are featured on the popular TV series Entourage and adorn celebrities from television and the runway.

Boutique items purchased at A. Hooper & Co. will, in part, benefit the American Cancer Society.

The event is free and open to the public, but reservations are required by calling Ethridge Plastic Surgery at 817.921.5566. BOTOX appointments for this Thursday evening must also be scheduled in advance when replying for the event.

Light hors d'oeuvres will be provided, and door prizes will be awarded throughout the evening.

The Thursday event is part of Legacy Salon hairstylist Christine Larsen-Cadena’s fundraising campaign for the 2010 Dallas/Fort Worth Breast Cancer 3-Day. Last year Dr. Ethridge offered BOTOX injections at her “BOTOX for Beauty” event and helped raise over $4,000 for the cause.

About Bobby Schandra Accessories
A Texas Tech alumnus, Mr. Schandra designs accessories for the modern woman. Each accessory delivers enduring style, quality craftsmanship, and tells a different story from around the world. From the French Riviera to the crowded Argentinean marketplace, Mr. Schandra has travelled around the globe and infused what he's seen into his collection of handbags, rings, watches, earrings, and bracelets. Seen on HBO's hit television show Entourage and adorning several of America’s top celebrities, Bobby Schandra Accessories are sold in exclusive boutiques including the Ritz Carolton and at E 61st in Highland Park Village. His web site is www.BobbySchandra.com.

About A. Hooper & Co.
An upscale women’s clothing boutique located at the intersection of Hulen and Interstate-30 in Fort Worth, A. Hooper & Co. was recognized as one of “The 50 Best Stores” in Texas by Lucky Magazine (2007). Brands carried by the boutique owned by Emily Korman include Vince, Joie, Madison Marcus, and Rebecca Taylor. A. Hooper & Co. is on Facebook at www.facebook.com/a.hooperco.

For more information about the Breast Cancer 3-Day Series® visit www.The3Day.org; Susan G. Komen for the Cure® visit www.komen.org; the National Philanthropic Trust (NPT) visit www.nptrust.org.

Join Us for a Free "Lunch 'n' Learn" About Common Breast Procedures

11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 29, 2010

In this casual, small group setting, Dr. Ethridge will give overviews about breast augmentation, lifts,
and reductions, and answer questions ---all during your lunch break (lunch provided)!

Topics covered include:

• breast procedures- augmentations, lifts, reductions
• candidate criteria
• what to expect at an initial consultation
• procedure costs and insurance coverage
• side effects, risks, and recovery time
• final appearance and duration of results

Make your reservation today!
Click here or anywhere on the invitation to register via email
or call Mona at 817-921-5566.

Become a "fan" of Ethridge Plastic Surgery on Facebook: www.facebook.com/DrEthridge

Be Nosey About Rhinoplasty

Get Answers to Your Questions About Nasal Reshaping Surgery

The nose knows, as they say! The nose is the most prominent and most
important feature of your face. It balances your eyes, mouth, and overall
facial structure.

Changing the shape of your nose can significantly impact the overall appearance and balance of your face. But it doesn’t have to be obvious that you’ve had nasal reshaping surgery, also known as rhinoplasty. Good plastic surgeons customize the surgery for each patient. If you’re considering rhinoplasty, we recommend careful consideration of goals and expectations. Think, too, about facial structure and family history, as they are crucial aspects of achieving the desired result.

Nasal shaping requires significant preoperative planning and surgical skill, as the alteration of the nasal shape and underlying structure must be handled with the greatest care. Rhinoplasty is a relatively complex surgery, since existing nasal structures and airways must be protected. Even small changes in shape will have an impact on appearance. With a skilled surgeon, though, rhinoplasty can improve and enhance overall facial harmony and self-confidence.

Visit with multiple doctors until you find one who best understands your desires and with whom you feel most comfortable. Then, the first step in rhinoplasty is a pre-operative consultation with your plastic surgeon. The pre-operative evaluation includes examining the nose thoroughly internally and externally and discussing goals and expectations. Any underlying medical problems such as allergies and snoring should be addressed prior to surgery. While many patients choose to undergo rhinoplasty for purely cosmetic reasons, the surgery can also be an effective way to correct breathing or airway issues.

A typical rhinoplasty can be performed under either local or general anesthesia, and the surgery usually lasts about one to two hours. During the operation, the surgeon makes an incision either across the bottom of your nose (known as an ‘open’ procedure) or in the mucosal lining of your nostrils (a ‘closed’ procedure). With access to the nose structure, the surgeon makes the desired changes to the bones
and cartilage of the nose. To support the new nasal structures during healing, the doctor will usually
place a splint, internal tubes, or gauze packing inside the nose, and an external splint, cast, or bandages will protect your nose during the initial healing stages.

Although rhinoplasty is usually an outpatient procedure, you’ll need someone to drive you home following surgery. Immediately following the rhinoplasty, you are likely to feel sore and experience tenderness in
the operative area. Because of the connection between the nose, throat, and stomach, as well as the influence of anesthesia, you may experience nausea, which should gradually subside. Some discomfort from the packing and cast on your nose may be experienced, and breathing through your mouth for several days will be required. Some surgeons will place a tube or straw in the packing to allow limited breathing through the nose. The packing is usually removed within a day or two, and the splint or cast usually comes off in about a week.

Rhinoplasty patients experience bruising and swelling for several days after surgery, and your nose may be sensitive for up to two months following your rhinoplasty procedure. Patients should be sure to
protect the nose following surgery. As with any plastic surgery, possible risks include infection, anesthesia risks, bleeding, scarring, and pain. Other risks associated with rhinoplasty include nose asymmetry, nasal airway alterations, nasal septal perforation, and the possibility of required revisional surgery.

For most patients, a careful pre-operative consultation with a trusted surgeon minimizes risks and patient worries about the operation, as well as assuring a good rapport throughout the process. If you’re considering rhinoplasty, schedule a consultation appointment with Dr. Ethridge to discuss your questions and decide what’s right for you. Knowing your goals and setting realistic expectations are an important point of departure as you journey towards a successful plastic surgery outcome.

Call Ethridge Plastic Surgery at 817-921-5566 for more information.

Liposuction: Is it Right for Me?

Most people want to maintain a healthy weight and look and feel good.  It is empowering for people
to feel confident in their bodies; self-image can motivate people in their personal and professional lives alike.  But sometimes achieving that desired body image isn’t easy.  Even with diet and exercise, sometimes our bodies don’t respond the way we think they should.  Some people want to improve
target areas, like the hips or abdomen, and may achieve great results with exercises and routines focused on slimming and toning those areas.  For some people, though, all the toning exercises available can’t change an inherited body shape or particularly stubborn area.  If this sounds like a familiar frustration, you may want to consider liposuction, which can deliver effective results with a relatively simple procedure.

What is liposuction?

Liposuction is a surgical technique that effectively improves your body contour by removing localized fat deposits.  It can be used almost anywhere on your body, though the most popular target areas are the hips, thighs and buttocks, abdomen and waist, upper arms and chest area, and chin and neck.  

Am I a good candidate?

If you are bothered by localized fat deposits that don’t respond to diet and exercise, then you may achieve the results you want with liposuction.  Some people are in excellent health and keep in shape
but don’t have a body contour that reveals this fitness, perhaps due to family traits.  If you have realistic and specific goals for changing your body contour, you’re a good candidate for liposuction. 

You meet the initial criteria if you are:

• A healthy adult over 18
• A non-smoker
• Within 30% of your ideal body weight
• In good health with firm muscle and skin tone

What can I expect from liposuction?

You can expect an improved body contour, greater definition and increased self-confidence.

What can’t I expect from liposuction?

If your main goal is weight loss, you are not a good candidate for liposuction.  Liposuction is safest and most effective when it’s used to remove small amounts of fat.  Even though only small amounts of fat
are removed, your body contour can improve significantly.  Liposuction is not a treatment for obesity or
a substitute for diet or exercise.  It also is not an effective treatment for cellulite or loose skin.

Liposuction is often performed in concert with other surgeries, especially if a large volume of fat is removed.  A breast reduction or breast lift, tummy tuck, or face lift can improve the final result of liposuction by tightening skin and muscle in the target area.

How does liposuction work?

The first step, before surgery, is to thoroughly discuss the procedure with your surgeon.

On the day of surgery, make sure someone can help you home: liposuction is usually an outpatient surgery, but the patient is given sedatives and a general anesthetic for the procedure.

After the patient is given anesthetic, the surgeon makes a small, inconspicuous incision.  Sterile liquid
(a saline anesthetic solution that also constricts blood vessels) in infused into the area, which helps to reduce bleeding and swelling.  Then the surgeon inserts a thin, hollow tube called a cannula into the incision.  Using careful movements, the surgeon loosens excess fat by moving the cannula back and forth in the target area.  Using a syringe or surgical vacuum attached to the cannula, the surgeon suctions out excess fat.  (For some patients, this fat can be cleaned and re-inserted into a different part of the body, for example to reduce lines and wrinkles in the face.  This is known as an autologous fat transplant.) 
The incision site is sutured, and the patient begins their recovery.

What is the recovery time?

After surgery, a patient wears a compression garment (somewhat like the ‘shapewear’ available to wear under clothing every day) for two to four weeks to reduce swelling.  It may take several weeks for the swelling to dissipate completely, and you’ll have to avoid strenuous exercise for the period of time prescribed by your surgeon.  The final result will be evident as soon as one month after surgery, though the patient will usually see noticeable results within days after surgery as the swelling subsides. 

What are the side effects and risks?

Side effects (symptoms following surgery but usually not permanent) can include bruising, swelling, scarring, pain, numbness, and limited mobility.

As with any surgery, liposuction carries the associated risks of infection, skin and nerve damage, bleeding or scarring.  Risks more specific to liposuction include uneven contours, rippling or loose skin, irregular pigmentation, fluid issues, and asymmetry.

In the hands of a skilled professional plastic surgeon, however, these risks are minimized.  Discuss any concerns with your doctor.     

Is liposuction permanent?

The fat cells removed by liposuction are permanently gone.  However, liposuction is no guarantee against future weight gain, and a patient must maintain an appropriate diet and fitness level in order to preserve the results.  Liposuction can give a patient excellent results, but it is the patient’s responsibility to maintain the healthy weight that will best showcase those results.

Call Ethridge Plastic Surgery at 817-921-5566 if you are interested in scheduling a consultation.

Dr. Ethridge Honored as a 2010 Top Doc in Cosmetic Surgery

Congratulations to Dr. Ethridge!  He has been selected by his peers as a 2010 Top Doctor for the second year in a row.

The Top Docs list is published in the April 2010 issue of Fort Worth, Texas Magazine.