What is Laser Skin Resurfacing?

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When your conversations are Skype video conferences and your pictures are all in ultra-high definition even minor facial imperfections can seem obvious to the entire world.  Damage from wind and sun and the relentless effects of time and gravity can leave skin looking marred and blemished far beyond its years.  Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Hunter Moyer keeps abreast of the most advanced technology to help minimize facial imperfections and leave skin looking fresh and revitalized with laser skin resurfacing.

Laser skin resurfacing uses high intensity light to vaporize the damaged skin in the outer layers of skin.  This creates a uniform “injury” to your skin, similar to deeper chemical peel or dermabrasion but with extremely precise control of the depth and location of the damage.  The removal of the damaged skin effectively reduces the appearance of acne, scars, and sun or liver spots, while stimulating the production of collagen.  As the skin heals, the newer skin that forms is younger-looking and more elastic, alleviating the appearance of wrinkles and the fine “smile lines” while giving the skin a fresh, healthy glow.

Sciton® laser skin resurfacing is the most advanced FDA-approved system that Dr. Moyer uses to remove damaged skin.  As Sciton® laser strength is fully customizable, it can be safely used on patients of all ages with a variety of skin tones and pigments.  An added benefit of Sciton® technology is that its intense beam of focused energy treats the most minute imperfections without damaging the surrounding tissue.

Laser resurfacing is generally performed as an outpatient procedure, with varied treatment times that depend on the specific area/s being treated.  Minor swelling can be expected as well as a mild itching or burning sensation over the next few days.  Additionally, skin may become dry and begin to peel during the healing process which (depending on the skin condition that was treated) can last for several days.  After treatment, it is particularly important that you use a “broad-spectrum” sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 45 or higher that screens ultraviolet B and ultraviolet A rays like those recommended in Dr. Moyer’s previous blogs on skin care.  By limiting your time outside you’ll not only protect your skin from harmful rays that can lead to skin cancer, but decrease the risk of adverse effects caused by light sensitivity.

If you are interested in skin care technology or the facial rejuvenation procedures Dr. Moyer performs, contact us today.  Also, connect with Dr. Moyer on FacebookTwitter, and Google+ for more plastic surgery updates and the latest news articles.

Share Your Thoughts on Breast Augmentation with Atlanta Plastic Surgery’s Survey (Part Two)

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As a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in breast procedures, Dr. Hunter Moyer is constantly conducting research into the latest techniques and innovations in an effort to improve patient care and satisfaction.  Last October, we conducted a survey among our female patients to better understand their preferences on various aspects of breast augmentation surgery.

The response was overwhelming, and the information we gathered was invaluable.  But now, in an effort to get a truly complete picture, Dr. Moyer would like to hear the male perspective on breast augmentation.  To better understand the preferences of men specifically, he invites all males to participate in our newest survey on cosmetic breast surgery.  The survey focuses on men and their honest assessment of what they consider true aesthetic preferences.  The survey is brief and will help us finesse our techniques to produce the most natural and aesthetically pleasing results.

Please take our breast survey and share your thoughts on this popular cosmetic procedure. We greatly appreciate your time and input!

Facial Restoration Options Growing Popular With Younger Patients

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Plastic surgery is a constantly growing and changing field.  Every day we are making new discoveries and innovations.  One of the most exciting developments in recent years has been the realization that plastic surgery can do more than just enhance the body and address the physical changes that time can cause to your body.  Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Hunter Moyer has observed that younger patients are taking advantage of newer, less-invasive procedures to make subtle, pre-emptive changes by starting these facial rejuvenation treatments earlier than ever before.

Cosmetic procedures to rejuvenate and smooth facial skin have become increasingly popular among patients aged 18 to 30.  In fact, members of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) performed 90,000 wrinkle-relaxer procedures and nearly 30,000 soft-tissue filler treatments for those 30 and younger last year, according to the 2013 ASDS Survey on Dermatologic Procedures. Those totals are 50% (wrinkle-relaxers) and 63% (fillers) higher than the previous year for the same age group.

Cosmetic injectables like Botox® smooth and relax the fine lines, wrinkles, and crow’s feet caused by facial expressions and the natural effects of aging.  The effects can generally last four to six months and, with repeated use, Botox® can train the muscles to relax, making the lines and wrinkles appear less severe for longer periods.  However Botox® will not replace tissue that has been lost, so damage caused by the sun and gravity will not respond to treatment.

Facial fillers like Juvéderm®, Sculptra®, and Restylane® facilitate the softening of deeper facial creases and add volume to the lips and face, restoring the plump, firm, fullness of youth.  Cosmetic injectables give patients extra lift that previously could only be achieved with more comprehensive surgical procedures such as facelift.  Providing patients with results ranging from six months up to two years, facial fillers can even prolong facial plastic surgery results to help maintain a youthful appearance.  Dr. Moyer safely and effectively administers Botox® and facial fillers to adult patients in-office with minimal discomfort and without the need for extensive downtime.

If you are interested in facial rejuvenation procedures Dr. Moyer performs or would like to schedule a consultation, contact us today.  Also, connect with Dr. Moyer on FacebookTwitter, and Google+ for more plastic surgery updates and the latest news articles.

The Latest Options in Body Contouring

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Many patients exercise regularly but still can’t seem to get rid of excess fat, whether from weight gain or pregnancy.  With the advances in medical science and technology, body contouring procedures can sculpt and refine the body to help maintain a youthful and vital appearance.  Board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Hunter Moyer performs body contouring procedures that have become increasingly popular among patients.  According to the latest American Society of Plastic Surgeons 2013 statistics, liposuction ranked one of the top five most performed cosmetic surgical procedures, and the number of tummy tucks and buttocks lifts have both increased by roughly 80% since 2000.

Patients who experience localized amounts of fat that may be resistant to diet and exercise are ideal candidates for liposuction.  Dr. Moyer uses three fat removal methods to suit each patient’s specific needs.  Thru very small incisions (less than ¼”), Dr. Moyer uses a small hollow tube (or cannula) to suction out fat cells.  In tumescent liposuction a special anesthetic fluid is injected, which numbs the area and causes the fat cells to swell, making the fat easier to remove.  Ultrasound assisted liposuction uses high frequency sound to liquefy the fat, leaving the skin and other tissue unharmed.  Not only does this allow the fat to be suctioned more easily, but the stimulating vibration can tighten and revitalize the overlying skin as well.  Finally, Body Jet (or water-assisted) liposuction uses sterile water to loosen undesired fat for removal.  However it uses a closed system design, withdrawing the fat so it can be later used for other fat transfer or augmentation procedures like the Brazilian Butt Lift.

Over the years, weight gain or pregnancy can cause the muscles in the abdomen to stretch and separate.  As a result, even losing weight can’t tighten the midsection as much as some patients would like.  A tummy tuck (or abdominoplasty) is designed not only to remove unwanted fat and eliminate excess skin from the mid-section but also to retighten muscles along the abdominal wall that may have separated, restoring the smooth, lean contours of a more youthful physique.  Dr. Moyer makes an incision in the lower abdominal area, easily hidden by underwear or bathing suits, and tightens the skin downward to make sure the naval maintains a natural appearance.

Utilizing excess fat removed through liposuction, Dr. Moyer can perform buttock augmentation (or Brazilian Butt Lift) through fat transfer.  The fat that has been removed is carefully purified and then re-injected into the buttocks to re-contour the area.  Using the patient’s own fat instead of an implant creates a more natural contour.  During consultation, Dr. Moyer works with patients to determine the precise target areas for both removal and re-injection to make sure that the patient can get the expected results they desire.

If you are interested in body contouring procedures Dr. Moyer performs or would like to schedule a consultation, contact us today.  Also, connect with Dr. Moyer on FacebookTwitter, and Google+ for more plastic surgery updates and the latest news articles.

Dr. Hunter Moyer, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, to Host Botox® Event and Unveil a New Stem Cell Skin Rejuvenation System

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Dr. Moyer invites patients to Evening Aesthetics and unveils Redesigned Website; puts focus on skin rejuvenation.

ATLANTA, GA, April 18, 2014, Board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Hunter Moyer is hosting Evening Aesthetics at his office in Cumming, from 5pm to 8pm on Tuesday, April 22nd, 2014.  The event will compliment the launch of his newly redesigned website and serve as the opening announcement of a new skin therapy.  During the event, Dr. Moyer will personally administer Botox® injections for $8 per unit.  Those in attendance enjoy beverages, hors d’oeuvres, and a chance to win free Latisse® eyelash enhancement, Vitamin C cream and Revision Sunscreen.

He is pleased to have this opportunity to unveil the culmination of years of development in his stem cell lab.  The same research that has led to Dr. Moyer’s multiple patents is now available to patients through a groundbreaking facial rejuvenation process.  Dr. Moyer is also excited to launch his newly redesigned website, specifically focused on keeping patients abreast of the latest developments in plastic surgery and updating them about special events and important information.

“I have always believed that having an open channel of communication with my patients is vital to any procedure being successful in the long term,” explains Dr. Moyer.  “Communication means making a connection and everyone connects in a different way.  I am always looking for new media to establish a more meaningful relationship with my patients.  The website and the Evening Aesthetics event are ways I hope to encourage a new dialogue with everyone.”

While the Evening Aesthetics event is free and all are encouraged to attend, space is limited.  Those who are interested are encouraged to RSVP to 404-256-1311 or afrey@atlplastic.com.  Full details about the event are available on the website, or in Dr. Moyer’s newsletter.

About Dr. Hunter Moyer

Hunter R. Moyer, M.D. is a plastic surgeon in the Atlanta area.  He is board certified in plastic and reconstructive surgery and graduated with a medical degree from Emory University School of Medicine, where he also completed his plastic and reconstructive surgery residencies. He is an active member of the Plastic Surgery Research Council and Georgia Society of Plastic Surgeons. He is also a Resident Member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Dedicated to continual research in order to advance plastic and reconstructive surgical technology, Dr. Moyer has published articles in journals like Annals of Plastic Surgery and Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery on topics like tissue rejuvenation, breast implant design and more.

Dr. Hunter Moyer Launches New, Redesigned Website

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Dr. Hunter Moyer has launched his newly redesigned website, specifically focused on keeping you abreast of the latest developments in plastic surgery, updating you about special events and important information, and giving you the insights gleaned from Dr. Moyer’s own blog, with expert commentary on topics ranging from skin care to minimally-invasive cosmetic surgery.

As a board-certified plastic surgeon, with years of refined training in reconstructive and cosmetic breast, body and facial procedures, Dr. Moyer understands that the decisions we make about our bodies affect every aspect of our lives. Therefore, he makes patient communication and education one of his top priorities. The new website is specifically designed to reach out to his patients and keep them informed.

For more information on a cosmetic or reconstructive procedure Dr. Moyer performs or to schedule a consultation, contact us today. Also, connect with Dr. Moyer on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ for more plastic surgery updates and the latest news articles.

Join Us for an Evening of Aesthetics

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Whether you call them laugh lines or crow’s feet, those wrinkles that insidiously creep in on the outer edges of eyes can have a profound effect on an otherwise youthful appearance. For years, Botox® Cosmetic has remained a pioneer among facial rejuvenation treatments and a staple for relaxing wrinkles between the eyes and on the forehead. Botox® has been FDA-approved for the treatment of fine lines and wrinkles for over a decade and in 2013 received an additional FDA approval for the treatment of the moderate to severe lines around the eyes known as crow’s feet.

To commemorate this recent development, board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Hunter Moyer is hosting Evening Aesthetics, a Botox® event at his office in Cumming, on April 22nd, 2014, 5pm to 8pm. The event will include cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in a relaxed atmosphere. Dr. Moyer will also answer questions about the latest in plastic surgery and unveil a new skin resurfacing system developed at Atlanta Plastic Surgery, P.C. Dr. Moyer will be personally administering Botox® injections for $8 per unit, and all in attendance will have a chance to win Latisse® eyelash enhancement. While the event is free and all are encouraged to attend, space will be limited so please RSVP to 404-256-1311 or afrey@atlplastic.com. For more details on the event, see the invitation below.

We look forward to seeing you at the event! If you have any questions about the event or a procedure Dr. Moyer performs, contact us today. To stay up to date on the latest news and special events, follow Dr Moyer on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.

Skin Care Series Part II: My Thoughts on the “Not So Good” & “Bad”

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Similar to reading labels on the food we consume, it is important to look beyond the superficial ingredients of any skin care regimen to better understand the benefits and potential harm. In the previous blog on this site, I shared my thoughts on the good side of skin care and some of the key components to help you maintain healthy, radiant skin. With many of today’s products, we are bombarded with claims of dramatic results from “revolutionary” technology. In reality, many of these claims are purely theoretical and often have little to no clinically proven results. In the second part of this series I discuss my thoughts on the “not so good” and the “bad” claims of products that you should consider skipping on your next trip down the skin care aisle.

The “Not So Good”

Vitamin E: Much like Vitamin C, Vitamin E is a potent anti-oxidant, skin lightener and moisturizer. In the lab, Vitamin E has proven an active collagen remodeler that might help in smoothing thick scars. Unfortunately, in our clinical experience topical Vitamin E has not been shown to improve scarring; the serum is extremely oily and can actually lead to acne breakouts.

My recommendation: if you’re going to buy a product with an active form of vitamin E, look for one that has tocopherol; however, I highly recommend Vitamin C over Vitamin E for all skin care regimens.

Collagen and PSP®: Topical collagen and processed skin cell proteins (PSP®) are touted to bolster dermal collagen and plump up your skin. It is true that the deep layer of skin responsible for structure and tightness is composed of collagen, elastin and other proteins; however, the outer layers of skin are designed to prevent these large compounds from leaking out. By the same measure, the outer layer of skin prevents the penetration of any large product placed topically. Collagen and proteins are simply too large to penetrate the skin.

The cosmeceutical industry understands this and has developed peptide and penta-peptide formulas, the new buzz words in skin care products if you will. Peptides are small fragments of a larger protein or collagen fiber that can be absorbed into the skin. The idea behind PSP® is that the peptides act as agents to breakdown collagen and protein, which will trigger your body into repair mode and stimulate new collagen and elastin production. Unfortunately, there is no data to support this theoretical claim.

My recommendation: save your $100 a month and consider a chemical peel or laser treatment.

The “Bad”

Gold Infused Nano-particle Creams: In my opinion, these products are a complete scam. Everyone loves gold, and we all like high-tech names like nano-particle (a fancy term for tiny particles). For example, one such product combines gold particles with silk to produce an “anti-inflammatory, detoxifying, healing and preserving” cream. Unfortunately, gold was named the 2002 American Contact Dermatitis Society’s allergen of the year and silk is a well-known inflammatory enabler.

My recommendation: unless you want to develop a severe rash for the low price of $420 a bottle, avoid such creams.

Stem Cells: Stem cells will be the source of medicinal cures in the distant future but are the hollow promise of many companies today. We do know that our adult bodies are full of regenerative cells that can be harnessed for cures; however, the science has not caught up with the marketing promises. Most stem cell creams on the market take a mixture of your natural signaling molecules and plasma from around harvested stem cells (not the stem cells themselves) that are mixed into a standard moisturizer. These cell messengers are then applied to the skin with the promise of causing your own skin stem cells to react and rejuvenate. The theory behind this is sound, but not proven.

My recommendation: stick to anti-oxidants as they work by binding to and removing toxic waste products from your skin. Damage from UV radiation, smoking and general aging cause the breakdown of skin and in turn release free radicals (molecules with too many electrons attached). Anti-oxidants absorb these free electrons and convert them back to a normal, non-harmful waste product.

If you are interested in finding a skin care treatment that is right for you or a cosmetic procedure I perform, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Stay connected with me, Dr. Hunter Moyer, on Facebook, Twitter and Google+ for more updates and news on skin care and plastic surgery.

Skin Care Series: My Thoughts on the Good

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Everyone is looking for that magic cream to reverse the signs of aging but often times it is difficult for some of us to distinguish between all the confusing, and at times ridiculous, claims made by skin care products in today’s market.  As the first of a two-part skin care series, I will discuss my thoughts on the “good” side of skin care as well as my recommendations on a few beneficial essentials for keeping your skin hydrated, glowing and healthy.

Sunscreen:  Perhaps the single best tool to prevent signs of aging and cancer.  Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun comes in multiple wavelengths: UVA, UVB and UVC.  UVC, the most destructive form, is completely blocked by the ozone layer.  UVA penetrates deeper into the skin and is primarily responsible for collagen/elastin damage contributing to wrinkles.  UVB is absorbed in the outer layers and more responsible for skin cancers/discoloration.  Sunscreens come in multiple flavors; however, be sure to buy at least an SPF 45.  As SPF only applies to UVB protection, buy sunscreens with excellent UVA and UVB protection that are also made with titanium dioxide or zinc oxide as they protect against all forms of UV radiation.

My recommendation: TiZO3 – available at AYA Medical Spa (AYA) – because the matte finish doesn’t leave you looking like a mime!

Retinol:  A once nightly application of retinoid cream is recommended to all my patients.  Retinol and its metabolites are clinically proven to thin the outer, course layer of skin and align the inner layers of the epidermis (reducing wrinkles and giving skin a healthy glow).  It also slows pigment production, thereby smoothing color variations seen with aging.  Retinoid creams are available as retinol and retin-A (tretinion).  Tretinoin is the more potent and active form but can be too strong for beginning users’ faces; therefore, I recommend transitioning from retinol to tretinion gradually until the skin can tolerate a nightly application without irritation.

My recommendation: Revision Skincare® Retinol Facial Repair – available at AYA.

Vitamin C:  Vitamin C serves as a powerful anti-oxidant, skin lightener and enzyme that helps the creation of collagen.  Not only does Vitamin C smell great but it also acts as a mild sunscreen against UVB rays and reverses DNA damage that can lead to cancer.  Not all Vitamin C creams are created equally.  When buying a product, be sure that it is in the L-ascorbic acid form and packaged in an opaque pump-style bottle as Vitamin C in the L-ascorbic form can penetrate the deeper, outer layers of the skin.  Additionally, it is unstable in air and quickly oxidizes to an inactive form so buying a product that comes in a pump minimizes the creams exposure to air only just before being applied.  If your current Vitamin C cream is a yellow-brown instead of off-white then it is useless.

My recommendation: Revision Skincare® Vitamin C 30% lotion – available at AYA.

Moisturizer:  A twice-daily moisturizer acts as the foundation of any skin care regimen and is one product where more expensive does not mean more effective.  Moisturizer clearly gives the skin a healthy glow and sheen, but just as importantly it hydrates it.  Applying moisturizer after washing your face, followed thirty minutes later by other skin care products, allows for better penetration of topical creams like retinoids and vitamin serums.

My recommendation: choose a product that does not cause oil retention and acne formation while at the same time doesn’t cost more than your Netflix monthly fee.

Manuka Honey:  Medical-grade honey has long been used for the treatment of burn wounds and infected ulcers.  Manuka honey is a special form that is produced in a region of New Zealand.  This honey contains peroxidase, an enzyme that naturally fights skin bacteria and lightens sunspots, and methylglyoxal, which fights a broader range of bacteria responsible for acne.  Manuka honey is a natural product free of parabens and additives.  It has become one of my standard skin care regimens after both chemical peels and laser resurfacing, because it is a potent anti-oxidant, moisturizer and causes less breakouts.

My recommendation: contact our office if you are interested in adding this to your skin care regimen as there is only a small amount produced each year and a very large counterfeit market.

Stay tuned for the next part of my skin care series in the upcoming weeks.  In the meantime, if you are interested in a skin care treatment or cosmetic procedure I perform please give us a call at 404-250-3393.  Also be sure to connect with me, Dr. Hunter Moyer, on FacebookTwitter and Google+ for more updates and news on plastic surgery.

The Many Treatment Options for Facial Rejuvenation

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Each person’s face ages differently, so there are various anti-aging procedures to address everyone’s needs. Younger patients often begin non-surgical procedures to treat early, minor signs of aging while patients with deeper wrinkling and excess skin may pursue facial cosmetic surgery to fully address. Since facial and skin concerns range from wrinkles and fine lines to lax skin and muscle, board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Hunter Moyer offers both surgical and non-surgical facial rejuvenation procedures to treat patients of any age and skin condition.

Patients with minor wrinkles and lines and surface concerns can benefit from minimally invasive treatments. Botox® and fillers are minimally invasive cosmetic injectables that smooth out wrinkles and lines. Facial fillers specifically restore lost volume in the cheeks and mouth. For sun spots and scars, chemical peels or laser therapy can improve skin texture and encourage collagen production for healthy, clear skin.

Surgical procedures like facelift and brow lift are available for patients with advanced signs of aging. During facelift surgery, Dr. Moyer removes excess fat and skin and re-tightens facial muscles. In some instances, facial tissue and fat can be repositioned to naturally fill areas of lost volume. Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) corrects drooping eyelids and removes fat deposits below the eyes. Eyes are a common area of concern as they are one of the first areas to exhibit signs of aging.

Additionally, patients can combine non-surgical procedures with surgical procedures to maximize their results. If you are interested in a facial treatment or any other procedure, contact our office to schedule a consultation. Be sure to also follow Dr. Moyer on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ for the latest updates and plastic surgery news.