This is the Ideal You Medical Dictionary. Please click on the letter below to search by alphabet or use the search function to lookup terms.

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Glossary Results:

Scalp Flap Surgery - A hair replacement method that involves rotating strips of hair-bearing scalp from the side and back of the head to the front and top; restores the hairline while maintaining normal hair density.

Scalp Reduction Surgery - Surgery to reduce the size of the bald area.

Scar Revision Surgery - Procedures to help minimize visible facial scars.

Submental lipectomy - A submental lipectomy is a surgical procedure to cut away excess fat under the chin. Submental liposuction vacuums away the fat under the chin.

Skin Resurfacing - Removal of the outer layer of the skin using abrasion, chemicals or a laser, resulting in smoother and less wrinkled skin.

Scalp Reduction Surgery - Scalp reduction procedures reduce the balding areas by removing segments of the bald scalp and stretching the hair bearing scalp to a higher position. Scalp reductions do not, by themselves, produce the cosmetic result of grafts or flaps, but aid in coverage and styling situations. When used with hair grafts, scalp reductions decrease the area for hair grafting. This stretching of the scalp can be repeated as soon as the scalp loosens up enough to allow such reduction, usually after three months. A process call scalp extension can also accelerate the reduction. Scalp extension was designed by Dr. Patrick Frechet from Paris, France. Scalp extension allows scalp reduction to be performed with much greater effect and allows previously determined non-candidates to have successful scalp reductions. This typically involves the use of an elastic surgical device, which is placed on the undersurface of the scalp during the first scalp reduction. This is not visible on the outside of the scalps. Over a one month period, the elastic recoil causes a constant gentle upward pull on the hair bearing tissues, thereby further loosening and stretching the scalp. This allows for typically a larger reduction to be performed than if an extender was not utilized. A significant reduction can be performed if the scalp is loose enough. Usually, a portion of the scalp 2-5 centimeters wide can be removed in one session. Because the scalp is being stretched, this procedure diffusely separates the hair in the fringe areas creating a good cosmetic effect. Scalp reductions leave scars within the involved areas of the scout, which can be camouflaged by hairstyles or by hair grafts in the future. Scalp reductions can be done before hair grafting is started. Alternatively, scalp reductions can be after the hair grafting is completed. In this latter situation, the grafts are inserted in such a pattern that leaves an area of bald scalp to be removed at a later date. In some cases, the limited number of hair grafts can be done simultaneously with scalp reductions. © 2003 Chernoff Plastic Surgery

Septorhinoplasty - A form of rhinoplasty that is performed to reconstruct the nasal passage or to relieve obstructions inside the nose to correct breathing problems; the obstruction is removed through internal incisions and the interior of the nose is restructured.

Sclerotherapy (Veins) - Sclerotherapy (Veins) Many people have small but enlarged veins, most commonly found on the thighs, around the knees, on the calves and on the ankles, which they consider unattractive. This condition is called telangiectasias but is also known as spider veins, varicosities, broken capillaries or sunburst vessels. These veins do not actually serve a purpose, so can be removed without posing a health problem. The procedure used to treat spider veins is called sclerotherapy. How is it Done? Sclerotherapy consists of repeated injections of a solution into the veins which irritates the vein lining, causing a small, inconsequential clot in the vein. With the blood flow stopped, the vein will eventually disappear. This procedure is generally performed on the lower extremities. The solution is usually injected into the veins two or three times over a period of several weeks to months. The veins will generally begin to disappear within several weeks following treatment, but may take up to several months. This process may need to be repeated, depending on the degree of severity. Most cosmetic surgeons treat primarily spider veins which may be red, pink, violet or blue in color. Varicose veins which are pencil diameter or larger may be treated by a general surgeon or vascular surgeon. Sclerotherapy is carried out as an office procedure, usually requiring 20 minutes or longer per session. Generally, no more than one to two areas are treated at a time. For extensive vein treatment, several visits may be necessary. After Effects? Most patients experience minimal pain during the injection. Any discomfort is usually related to the irritation caused by the substance injected into the vein, but this will subside. Following the treatment, pressure may be applied to the injected area for 24 to 36 hours. Rest is not generally necessary, in fact, daily walking for at least 20 minutes after the treatment is strongly encouraged and normal activity may be resumed. What Are the Risks? Most patients are extremely pleased with the results of sclerotherapy and complications are unusual. However, complications may include ulceration of the skin that may heal with scar formation, reddish blotches -- most will disappear in six to 12 months, pigmentation or discoloration and formation of new spider veins or sunburst blemishes. There are risks in any surgical procedure. You should discuss all of the risks and benefits with your cosmetic surgeon. The Cost? Fees vary from one geographic location to another. Your cosmetic surgeon and staff will discuss financial arrangements with you prior to your procedure. In cases where there is need for physical rather than cosmetic improvement, insurance may cover part or all of the cost. This brochure is only intended as an introduction to this procedure. It should not be used to determine whether you will have the procedure performed and should not be construed to guarantee the result.