Scottsdale Plastic Surgery Practice Stands Behind U.S. Breast Implant Safety

Scottsdale, AZ — Breast augmentation remains the most popular surgical cosmetic enhancement in the U.S., which is mirrored in the Scottsdale plastic surgery practice of Dr. Steven Turkeltaub. He believes the extensive, exhaustive studies and research conducted over the years supports the general safety of both silicone and saline breast implants and refutes the nebulous charges of self interest groups. Furthermore, he states that the strict requirements and thorough oversight by the FDA in their approval adds additional credence to their safety.

The recently publicized breast implant safety issue concerned the French breast implant manufacturer Poly Implant Prothese (PIP), which was caught substituting industrial grade silicone for some of their implants instead of using the far more expensive medical grade silicone. Fortunately, none of their silicone breast implants were used in the United States because the company failed to meet the numerous and strict regulations and guidelines established by the FDA. As a board-certified Scottsdale plastic surgeon, Dr. Turkeltaub says that a patient who has had a breast augmentation in the U.S. from a reputable board-certified plastic surgeon need not be concerned about this issue.

Dr. Turkeltaub says he strongly believes in the safety of silicone gel implants for patients looking for breast augmentation in Scottsdale, Phoenix, and Glendale. “Silicone gel breast implants, which are FDA approved, are probably the most studied medical device ever. I feel extremely comfortable reassuring my patients of their safety and effectiveness and recommending them.” In fact, Dr. Turkeltaub says silicone breast implants in Scottsdale are the most popular choice of implant for patients at his practice, noting that more than 95% of his patients select the gel option for its natural look, feel and durability. “My patients find that silicone feels more like natural breast tissue, whereas saline implants can feel more like a water balloon. When considering a procedure that can have such a significant impact on the way a woman looks and feels about her body, I’m not surprised a majority of women choose the silicone gel implants.” The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) confirms his observations, reporting that 62% of breast augmentation procedures used silicone implants, whereas only 38% of cases used saline.

Whether patients are looking for silicone or saline implants for a breast enlargement in Scottsdale, Dr. Turkeltaub says consulting with an experienced and reputable board certified plastic surgery practice is essential for having a much greater likelihood for achieving an aesthetically-pleasing outcome. He also stresses the importance of seeking a board-certified plastic surgeon who is caring, easily relates with patients, and spends an appropriate amount of time discussing all aspects of the procedure and answering their questions.

“Board certification with the American Board of Plastic Surgery is critically important when considering a procedure such as breast augmentation. Many of my patients have told me that word-of-mouth from friends and acquaintances who are or have been patients of the plastic surgeon can be quite helpful.”

About Steven H. Turkeltaub, MD, PC

A graduate of the Six-Year Medical Program at Boston University and Boston University School of Medicine, Dr. Steven Turkeltaub completed his general surgery residency at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital and Northwestern Medical Center in Chicago, as well as a plastic surgery residency at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center. He is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the Arizona Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons, the Arizona Medical Association, and several other professional societies. Board-certified in Plastic Surgery, Dr. Turkeltaub has also been published in several scholarly articles and textbooks on plastic surgery, in addition to a number of magazines and newspapers.

With two locations at 10290 N. 92nd Street Suite 207 in Scottsdale, AZ and 18275 N. 59th Avenue Bldg. E Suite 126 in Glendale, AZ, Dr. Turkeltaub’s practice, the Arizona Center for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, can be reached at (480) 451-3000. He can also be contacted online via the website turkeltaub.com, arizonabreast.com, or the Arizona Center for Breast Surgery Facebook page.

Contact:
Rosemont Media
Aaron Hurst
aaron@rosemontmedia.com
(858) 200-0044

###

Breast augmentation continues to be the most popular cosmetic plastic surgery procedure being performed today and for very good reasons (which I won’t delve into here). Related to this is the finding that an astounding 94% of women who have undergone this procedure would make the same decision to pursue breast enlargement surgery if they had to do it all over again. Looking at this from another perspective, there are few things in life that 94% of women can agree on (well, maybe unless it has to do with some complaints regarding men in general!).

There is considerable disagreement, however, on the amount of discomfort that is experienced immediately following a breast augmentation where the breast implants are placed behind the muscle. Many women are under the impression that there is necessarily a considerable amount of pain for several days following the surgery. They might have heard this from some of their friends or even read about it online. This can create anxiety prior to surgery or even cause some women to abandon their pursuit of a breast enlargement.

How true is this?

Should you expect to be in a considerable amount of pain for days after your surgery?

For most women, when the breast augmentation surgery is performed by a plastic surgeon employing the most advanced and meticulous plastic surgery techniques, the immediate postoperative course can be surprisingly tolerable with mild, fairly easily manageable discomfort. Of course and unfortunately, this is not true in every situation.

In the pursuit of seeking the ideal ways to minimize immediate postoperative discomfort following a breast augmentation, my techniques and approaches have evolved considerably over my 25 years in practice here in Scottsdale and the Phoenix metropolitan area. The result is that it is not very common for my patients to complain about greater than mild to moderate pain that can’t be controlled with analgesics and muscle relaxants. Unfortunately, there are many plastic surgeons and other physicians performing breast augmentations who are not very mindful of the ways to make the postoperative course far more pleasant and tolerable.

The following is a video of a recent patient of mine who wanted to share with others her experiences and perspectives following her breast augmentation surgery.

If you would like more information on breast augmentation surgery or for any other plastic surgery procedure that I perform, or to schedule a consultation with me, please call my office at 480-451-3000.

Steven H. Turkeltaub, M.D. P.C.
Scottsdale and Phoenix, Arizona

A very significant percentage of women that I see in consultation for breast reduction surgery (reduction mammoplasty) are well above their ideal body weight. Many of these same women express a desire, serious or not, to lose a substantial amount of weight in addition to breast size.

When considering weight loss and breast reduction surgery, should a woman lose some or most of the weight:

A.)  prior to breast reduction surgery?
B.) after the breast reduction surgery?
C.) or some before and the rest afterwards?

In a perfect world, my recommendation would be to lose as much of the excess weight prior to breast reduction surgery rather than afterwards. The advantages of this are many. When the breasts are reduced in size and contoured into a desirable shape with a rejuvenated appearance, there is a fixed ratio of skin and enclosed breast tissue. This can be maintained to some extent over time if weight remains constant though gravity continues to take its toll with regard to continuation of drooping over time. With a postoperative weight loss well in excess of 5 or 10 pounds, there will be additional loss of breast volume yet the amount of skin remains the same. The result would be even smaller breasts that are less firm and shapely and droopier than they otherwise would have been.

What are other advantages of preoperative weight loss?

At a substantially lower weight, surgical and anesthetic risks may be decreased as would the risk of infection and healing problems. This relevant for those individuals whose body mass index (BMI) places them in the obese or morbidly obese categories.

Unfortunately, what is best and what can be accomplished are often not the same. Many women may desire to lose their excess poundage but know that they can’t and won’t. Others can actually lose at least some of the weight but nowhere near all of it. Regardless, both of these groups of women should not be denied breast reduction surgery and its associated benefits if they are otherwise excellent candidates for it and are relatively low medical and anesthetic risks.

The positive impact of a reduction mammoplasty on the quality of life is difficult to overstate. It is so rare for any woman who has undergone this procedure to regret her decision. In fact, the satisfaction rate for this procedure even exceeds that of breast augmentation surgery which is around 94%.

For more information on a breast reduction surgery or on any other plastic surgery procedure that I perform or to schedule your consultation with me, please call my office at 480-451-3000.

Steven H. Turkeltaub, M.D. P.C.
Scottsdale and Phoenix, Arizona

Doctor-Patient Communication is Essential for Successful Results Says Scottsdale Plastic Surgeon

At his center for plastic surgery in Scottsdale, Dr. Steven Turkeltaub says initial consultations with one’s surgeon can have a profound impact on the quality of results they can achieve as well as overall patient comfort. Dr. Turkeltaub offers tips for finding a practice dedicated to patient satisfaction as well as how to increase the effectiveness of doctor-patient consultations.

Dr. Steven Turkeltaub, a plastic surgeon in Scottsdale, says with an improvement in the economy on the optimistic horizon, there should be a significant increase in the number of plastic surgery procedures being performed. He adds that some of this will be related to pent up demand from patients who have long desired to have cosmetic surgery, but couldn’t afford it due to the dire and protracted economic issues that have plagued the US for several years.

As patients pursue plastic surgery, Dr. Turkeltaub says they need to consult with a surgeon who has the proper training, qualifications, and passion for excellence in patient care. He states that this can be quite difficult to discern given deceptive advertising, marketing and even information imparted by less than forthright physicians. “When seeking the right surgeon, a patient should start by making sure their doctor is a plastic surgeon who is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Many less-than-scrupulous physicians will deceptively claim that they are ‘board certified,’ but it either is not an officially recognized board or one in an area that is not plastic surgery.”

The importance of the initial consultation cannot be overstated, according to Dr. Turkeltaub. Patients can enhance the value and experience of their consultation by some preparation beforehand. He states that specifically identifying one’s cosmetic goals for a procedure such as for breast augmentation and the use of breast implants in Scottsdale prior to the consultation helps the plastic surgeon and the patient in the decision-making process and in selecting the best course of action.

Dr. Turkeltaub also adds that preparing a list of important questions or concerns can help patients feel more comfortable about the procedure(s) that they are considering as well as relieve the expected anxiety and indecisiveness. “I thoroughly discuss the contemplated procedure or procedures in detail including the surgery itself, the postoperative course, expectations, and risks and complications. Usually, I cover everything that most patients would normally ask so that few have any additional questions. This further creates a greater sense of comfort, trust, and understanding.”

For example, Dr. Turkeltaub offers some typical questions patients must address when considering breast augmentation: How can I be sure that I will be the size that I want to be? How painful is the procedure? How long is the recovery period? How long do the breast implants last? Are they durable? Do they have to be changed every 10 years? Do I have any long-term limitations? He adds that it is imperative for patients to be knowledgeable and informed regarding both their implants and breast enlargement in general so that they feel much more comfortable when making their decisions.

Whether they are seeking a non-invasive enhancement like BOTOX® Cosmetic or a surgical procedure such as breast augmentation in Scottsdale, Dr. Turkeltaub says patients should be sure to choose a plastic surgeon and associated office staff that are respectful, courteous, empathetic and willing to spend the necessary time with them. “Researching a practice and plastic surgeon ahead of the consultation and procedure will increase the likelihood of an overall better experience both during and after the surgery.”

About Steven H. Turkeltaub, MD, PC

Following graduation from the Six-Year Medical Program at Boston University and Boston University School of Medicine, Dr. Steven Turkeltaub completed a post-graduate training residency in general surgery at the University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital and Northwestern Medical Center in Chicago. He also trained during a plastic surgery residency at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center, where he held an academic appointment as Clinical Instructor and Attending Physician in Plastic and reconstructive Surgery. Having authored several papers and textbook chapters on plastic surgery, Dr. Turkeltaub is also a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the Arizona Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons, the Arizona Medical Associations, and several other professional organizations. He regularly attends national symposiums and meetings each year to keep up-to-date on the latest in plastic surgery techniques and technology.

Dr. Turkeltaub’s practice, The Arizona Center for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, has two locations at 10290 N. 92nd St., Suite 207 in Scottsdale, AZ and 18275 N. 59th Ave. Bldg. E Suite 126 in Glendale, AZ, reachable at (480) 451-3000. He can also be contacted online via the website www.arizonabreast.com, www.turkeltaub.com, or facebook.com/drturkeltaub.

###

Enlarge your breasts two cup sizes in 90 days with our new, amazing breast growth tablets. There is no pain. No greasy lotions to stain your clothes. You don’t have to suffer the embarrassment of getting caught while rubbing some cream on your breasts that must be applied six times a day. No dangerous chemicals to mix. And best of all – there are absolutely no side effects.

Just larger, fuller, firm, voluptuous, and sexy breasts. Like you always dreamed about.

Your friends in Scottsdale, Phoenix, Glendale, Mesa and even Chandler and Gilbert will be astonished at the new, improved shapely You but no one will know your secret but You! And it’s permanent (provided you continue with my inexpensive maintenance pack).

There is no need for risky breast enlargement surgery. Say “no thanks” to those dangerous breast implants.

No! No! No! No! You don’t want those fake, manufactured things in YOUR body!

Plastic surgeons will be outraged … but you can laugh, look great and not have to pay those exorbitant surgical fees. And best of all: avoid surgery!

How is this possible?

It can’t be true, can it?

I, myself, never thought it possible that some rare and exotic herb could have such beneficial effects. Being highly skeptical, I hiked deep into a remote region of the Amazon to visit a primitive tribe I heard about where all the women were at least a “D” cup. Even more amazing, as I subsequently learned, was that their breasts remained firm and youthful well into their 50’s – even after several pregnancies and breast feeding.

What is their “secret”?

The answer is a diet rich in a leafy plant that only the women eat. It’s an herb that is found nowhere else on the planet.

Until now.

So if you want your breasts to grow bigger the natural way, without the risks and pain of breast augmentation surgery, you don’t have to go to the Amazon rainforest to obtain this amazing herb. I’ve brought it back for you in my safe, all natural proprietary formulation.

So hurry now and take advantage of this introductory, discounted limited time offer! You can get 100 of these amazing, patented breast pills for the easy low price of $89.99 plus S & H. And for the first 1000 callers, I will throw in a second bottle at no charge.  You just pay the additional S & H.

To place your order now, just call 800-TIT-PILLS (or 800-848-7455). Operators are standing by 24 hours a day.

If you call in the next 60 minutes, we will include for free in your order, 25 tablets for your man that contain another tropical herb that will help to further extend his interest in you …

Do you really believe advertisements like this touting incredible pills, tablet, or lotions guaranteed to enlarge your breasts or your man’s manhood?

Hopefully not, as they don’t exist!

These scams only serve to enlarge the bank accounts of the con artists promoting their quack medications and formulations. As the old adage goes: “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”

If you would like some information on the real thing, breast augmentation surgery, or for any other plastic surgery procedure that I perform or to schedule a consultation with me, please call my office at 480-451-3000.

Steven H. Turkeltaub, M.D. P.C.
Scottsdale and Phoenix, Arizona

“Natural” looking breasts.

Over the years, many thousands of women have seen me in consultation for their breast augmentation. When sharing their goals to me, a majority of them invariably requested that they wanted their breasts to look “natural”. Then they proceeded to describe these desired outcomes that were in reality not so very “natural”. What might be “natural” to one woman would not be very satisfactory to another who was also looking for that “natural” result. Furthermore, many women just use the term but haven’t really thought about what it means to them except that it doesn’t include obscenely big.

What are natural looking breasts?

Are they a so called “C” cup or a “D” cup? Or even a “B” cup for the very petite? And which company’s bra will be the standard to make that determination?

Are they somewhat round, broad and with moderate projection? Or are they more projecting and less wide?

Is a tear drop shaped breast more natural or more desirable than a smooth and round one?

I could go on but you get the gist. Though it may give some people the warm and fuzzies, the use of “natural” together with breast implants and breast augmentation is not a very useful, descriptive or precise term. The one thing that it does convey is that the woman does not want to be grotesquely large (whatever size that may be!).

“Natural”, like beauty, is in the eyes of the beholder. When you are seeking to have a breast augmentation, know exactly what it is that you want and if you still insist on using the term “natural”, explain to your plastic surgeon exactly what that means to you. This includes such considerations as relative cup size, proportionality, cleavage, roundness, fullness, etc. Providing some photos showing women both in more revealing clothes and naked can be helpful to convey your thoughts.

If you don’t express exactly what it is that you want from your breast augmentation, there is a greater chance that you might not be entirely satisfied with the outcome.

For more information on breast augmentation surgery, breast implants or for any plastic surgery procedure that I perform, or to schedule a consultation with me, please call my office at 480-451-3000.

Steven H. Turkeltaub, M.D. P.C.
Scottsdale and Phoenix, Arizona

A French manufacturer of breast implants, Poly Implant Prosthese (PIP), has been in the news worldwide and for all the wrong reasons.

Inferior quality breast implants that break easily.
Usage of unauthorized, non-medical grade silicone in their silicone implants.
Poor quality control and manufacturing techniques.
Concern that their implants may be associated with an increased incidence of cancer.
And now there are allegations that a fuel additive, untested in any human trials, was used in these implants.

These issues show an egregious violation of standards, ethics and integrity. On top of this, European medical regulatory agencies and other government agencies failed to protect the consumer.

Women in numerous countries around the world who had these implants used for their breast enlargement are quite understandably in a panic. There may be hundreds of thousands of them.

What about American women? Do they have anything to worry about here? How many of these implants were used in the United States?

Fortunately, the answers to these questions are both easy and positive.

PIP sold only saline implants in the United States for a short period of time – between the end of 1996 and 2000. In their investigation of the company and its saline implants, the FDA (Federal Drug Administration) in 2000 cited numerous issues and concerns including quality control problems and the unacceptably high deflation rate. This led to PIP immediately withdrawing these implants from the United States market.

And now for even better news: No PIP silicone implants were ever legally sold or used in the United States. Therefore, despite the worldwide uproar and concerns about these disastrous PIP silicone breast implants, American women don’t have to worry about this issue because they were never available for implantation here.

If you would like to obtain information on silicone breast implants, breast augmentation surgery or for any other plastic surgery procedure that I perform, or to schedule a consultation with me, please call my office at 480-451-3000.

Steven H. Turkeltaub, M.D. P.C.
Scottsdale and Phoenix, Arizona

A few days ago, there were countless headlines and stories in the media about a woman whose breast implant was “swallowed” by her body while doing Pilates. These were in response to a medical report documenting an unusual case that was just published in the Dec. 15th issue of the New England Journal of Medicine.

These reports garnished quite a lot of attention and also provoked some anxiety, concern and questions particularly in some women who already have breast implants. They want to know: “Is there a risk that the body can really “swallow” a breast implant?”

This case report involved a 59 year old woman who had previously undergone a bilateral mastectomy for breast cancer and had reconstruction with breast implants. During a Pilates stretching exercise, her right breast implant … disappeared. Gone in a flash! No external trace. She experienced no symptoms such as pain or shortness of breath.

A medical evaluation was performed including obtaining an ultrasound, chest X-ray and CT scan. What was discovered was that her intact breast implant was in her right chest cavity. It had been sucked into it during her stretching exercise.

She was taken to surgery during which the implant was extracted from the chest cavity and repositioned on the chest wall again where it belonged. A defect between the ribs which had allowed the implant to be displaced, was repaired. And she lived happily ever after. (Well, I don’t exactly know about that!)

So how did this bizarre situation occur?

This was the result of a confluence of issues and factors that together created the “perfect storm” for this rarity. The patient already had weak, flexible ribs. Her implants were not very large. And most importantly and what wasn’t clearly disclosed: she recently had undergone a mitral valve (a heart valve) replacement for a leaky heart valve and the approach used to access the heart was between the same two ribs that the implant slid between. The normal anatomy was disrupted by the surgery and a significant defect remained between these two ribs. Now, add to all of this a stretching maneuver that separated the ribs and created a negative force and, voilà, her breast implant was sucked into the chest cavity.

As you can see, the odds of this happening are less than being struck by lightning or winning the lottery. It is about on par with the probability of Obama suddenly becoming an adherent of conservative policies and slightly higher that the likelihood of taking a snapshot of the Loch Ness monster frolicking with its family or eating lunch with the Abominable snowman.

There are more important things to worry about in life.

Steven H. Turkeltaub, M.D. P.C.
Scottsdale and Phoenix, Arizona

The incision that I have always preferred for a breast augmentation is the inframammary one (with rare exceptions). The reasons have been many including the relatively inconspicuous location and healing of the incision, better surgical exposure that facilitates precise technique and control, a reduced risk of developing capsular contracture (tight scar formation around the implant causing the breasts to feel hard), and what intuitively seemed to have a lower risk of affecting the sensation of the nipple-areola complex (NAC). No large scale study had been conducted to prove or refute my sentiment on the effect of the incision location on sensation until now.

A large scientific study was conducted in Italy that evaluated the possible effect of the incision location for breast augmentation surgery on the postoperative sensation of the nipple-areola complex. This assessed data from over 1200 women who had the same plastic surgeon perform their surgery over a slightly greater than six year period. Among the variables investigated were patient age, the breast implant size and whether the implants were placed above or below the muscle.

What the study found was that the implant size had no significant impact on the sensation of the nipple-areola complex postoperatively, an outcome that may surprise many. In addition, neither the patient’s age nor whether the implant was in a submuscular or submammary pocket, had any influence on sensation. The only variable that had a statistically significant association with reduced NAC sensation after surgery was the incision location, with the periareolar affecting 9.5% of women compared to 3.5% with the inframammary one which translates into a 2.7 times greater risk of sensory loss. It also had a 3.5 times greater risk of causing areolar pain.

Now there is even more convincing evidence supporting the superiority of the inframammary incision over the periareolar one for breast augmentation surgery.

If you would like to obtain more information on breast augmentation surgery or for any other plastic surgery procedure that I perform, or to schedule a consultation with me, please call my office at 480-451-3000.

Steven H. Turkeltaub, M.D. P.C.
Scottsdale and Phoenix, Arizona

A question that many women have who are either considering a breast reduction or have already undergone one is “When can I start wearing an underwire bra?” Some are under the impression that they are not suppose to wear one any more following surgery; others have heard recommendations that involve widely differing periods of time. This can be decidedly confusing.

What is the right answer?

Well, there really is not one absolute, definitive answer. (Even this sounds vague!) One of the reasons for this is that there are no evidence based studies in the medical literature which identify one specific period of time following breast reduction surgery that is better than any other to start wearing an underwire bra again. Consequently, each plastic surgeon determines his or her own protocol based on a variety of factors including experiences with their patients. Some may recommend waiting at least 3 or 4 weeks whereas others may suggest 2 to 3 months or more.

What is my protocol for wearing an underwire bra following a breast reduction?

Upon removal of their operative dressing a few days after surgery, my patients are placed in a sports bra which they will wear for a couple of weeks. After this, they can wear any comfortable but supportive bra which they like and which includes an underwire bra. The purpose is to help to maintain the improved shape of their breasts for a longer period of time by counteracting, to some extent, the relentless forces of gravity.

With normal postoperative healing, the incision along the crease at the bottom of the breast will be inflamed and even tender for several months. During this period of time, an underwire bra may be somewhat uncomfortable to wear. As a result, most patients will wait at least 2 to 3 months before being wearing one on a regular basis.

For more information on breast reduction surgery or for any other plastic surgery procedure that I perform or to schedule your free consultation with me, please call my office at 480-451-3000.

Steven H. Turkeltaub, M.D. P.C.
Scottsdale and Phoenix, Arizona

Plastic Surgeon in Arizona Discusses Choosing the Right Practice for Breast Augmentation Procedure

Breast augmentation is the most popular form of surgical cosmetic enhancement according to the latest study from the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). At his Arizona plastic surgery practice, Dr. Steven Turkeltaub discusses the essential traits of a plastic surgeon, and the need for an individualized treatment plan for each patient.

More than 9.3 million cosmetic procedures, including 318,123 breast augmentation procedures, were performed in 2010 according to the latest data from the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). As the popularity of cosmetic enhancement continues to grow, Dr. Steven Turkeltaub states that patients must address several important elements when considering plastic surgery in Arizona and around the U. S., including a surgeon’s experience, an individualized surgical treatment plan, and their own level of comfort with the surgeon and his team.

When patients are considering breast augmentation in Arizona, Dr. Turkeltaub says he emphatically recommends that they seek consultations with experienced and reputable plastic surgeons who are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. “Unfortunately, there are thousands of physicians across the country who are not plastic surgeons yet are performing breast augmentation surgery despite significant deficiencies in their qualifications, skills and training. Often using slick marketing including the non-specific term “board certified”, they directly and indirectly portray themselves as equivalents or actual plastic surgeons when they are not. Patients can pay a heavy price monetarily and health wise if they do not do adequate research.”

In addition to board certification, Dr. Turkeltaub states that identifying and exploring individual aesthetic enhancement goals and reviewing expectations are extremely important. He recommends a full discussion of the surgical treatment plan including all the relevant options. He adds that photographs of the surgeon’s before-and-after gallery can be helpful to better ensure that the patient and surgeon are on the same page. Dr. Turkeltaub says doing so is especially important when patients are considering breast augmentation because of the impact such a procedure can have on a woman’s overall sense of femininity and self-confidence.

Dr. Turkeltaub also had this to say: “It should go without saying that patients should have a good feeling about the plastic surgeon that they are considering to perform their surgery. A good bedside manner and a warm, caring office staff go a long way in making the overall experience more comfortable, more pleasant and less stressful.”

About Steven Turkeltaub, MD, PC

Dr. Steven Turkeltaub earned his medical degree from the Boston University School of Medicine. He then completed his general surgery training at the University of Miami Jackson Memorial Hospital, and the Northwestern Medical Center in Chicago, followed by a plastic surgery residency at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center. Dr. Turkeltaub is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, and is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the Arizona Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons, among others.

The Arizona Center for Breast Surgery has two locations: 10290 N. 92nd St. Suite 207 Scottsdale, AZ 85258, and 18275 N. 59th Ave. Bldg. E Suite 126 Glendale, AZ. Both locations can be reached at (480) 451-3000, or found online at arizonabreast.com, turkeltaub.com, or facebook.com/drturkeltaub.

###

Arizona Plastic Surgery Practice Reflects ASAPS Statistics

Of the more than 9.3 million cosmetic enhancement procedures performed in 2010, breast augmentation was the most common form of surgical enhancement according to the latest study from the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). As a board-certified plastic surgeon in Phoenix, AZ, Dr. Steven Turkeltaub says the same is true at the Arizona Center for Breast Surgery.

According to the latest study from the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), breast augmentation was the most common cosmetic plastic surgery procedure in 2010, followed by liposuction, eyelid surgery, abdominoplasty, and breast reduction. Dr. Steven Turkeltaub says that this is consistent with the breast surgery procedures that he performed for his patients in 2010 as well as the first half of 2011 at his Arizona plastic surgery practice.

Nearly 580,000 breast surgery procedures were performed in 2010. This total represents a 9% increase over the 2009 totals, which were adversely affected by the recession. However, Dr. Turkeltaub says this increase is due to more than the improved financial conditions: “As highlighted by the latest ASAPS study, an ever greater percentage of Americans approve of cosmetic enhancements, which are increasingly considered as mainstream procedures. In addition to wanting to look better—and feel better about themselves—as they have in the past, for some patients seeking employment or trying to hold on to their jobs, they believe a more youthful, attractive, and even alluring appearance may just provide them with a noticeable and competitive advantage.”

Regardless of the slight decrease in 2009, a 14-year comparison of breast augmentation reveals the number of procedures performed more than tripled from 101,176 in 1997, to 318,123 in 2010. Dr. Turkeltaub says the constant drive for innovation in the field of aesthetic enhancement is likely the cause of such a increase. “During this same period, there have been technological advancements as well as refinements in technique that should provide patients with more predictable and durable results along with even greater safety and comfort.”

About Steven H. Turkeltaub, MD, PC

Dr. Steven Turkeltaub earned his medical degree from Boston University School of Medicine. He completed his general and plastic surgery residencies at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center, where he also held an appointment as a Clinical Instructor. Dr. Turkeltaub has authored several papers and chapters for plastic surgery textbooks, as well as several magazines and newspapers. He is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the Arizona Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons, and the Arizona Medical Society.

The Arizona Center for Breast Surgery has two locations: the Scottsdale office is located at 10290 N. 92nd St. Ste. 207 in Scottsdale, AZ 85258; and the Glendale office located at 18275 N. 59th Ave. Bldg. E Ste. 126 in Glendale, AZ 85308. Both locations can be reached at (480) 451-3000, or found online at arizonabreast.com or the Plastic Surgery Arizona Facebook page.

###

Breast reduction surgery effectively reduces or eliminates symptoms that many women with very large breasts experience such as neck, back and shoulder pain, rashes, skin breakdown, fatigue and discomfort associated with physical activities. I have had numerous patients of mine over the years tell me how absolutely happy they were following their breast reduction surgery in that they were once again able to be involved in sports and other vigorous activities that they previously had to avoid or limit their involvement in due to either discomfort or embarrassment.

It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to realize the detrimental effects that large, heavy breasts (macromastia) have on a multitude of levels. When it comes to sports, particularly competitive ones, the impact can be enormous (coincidentally metaphorical). For example, when was the last time that you saw an elite female runner competing in the 100 yard dash?

What about the high jump?

Thought so!

Most of these superior athletes from the neck down are seemingly androgynous. It is very rare to see the likes of an Anna Kournikova (tennis) particularly in certain sports.

There is a somewhat publicized case (at least by her “adoring” male fans) of an elite female athlete who underwent a breast reduction in order to improve her ability to compete as well as to alleviate severe neck and back pains. This involves the Romanian tennis star Simona Halep who also was the junior champion at the 2009 French Open at the age of 18. Though her 34DD breasts significantly enlarged her appeal and following, they were fatiguing, painful and physically limiting.

Tennis star Simona Halep before breast reduction surgery

Halep underwent a breast reduction in 2009, reducing her breast size from a 34DD cup down to a 34C. It is no coincidence that following surgery, her world ranking has improved by 450 spots – now at 57th in the world. She states that she is faster and much more agile than she was prior to her breast reduction and no longer experiences any neck or back pains.

After breast reduction surgery

Simona Halpe runs faster, has greater agility and is a more competitive tennis player following her breast reduction surgery

On the down side, with her reduced breast size she cost her some of her male fan base …!

If you have any questions regarding breast reduction surgery or on any other plastic surgery procedure that I perform or to schedule a consultation with me, please feel free to call my office at 480-451-3000.

Steven H. Turkeltaub, M.D. P.C.
Scottsdale and Phoenix, Arizona

As a result of research and technological advancements, there have been fundamental improvements in the design and construction of silicone breast implants over the years. These have translated into breast implants filled with a cohesive gel (like taffy) that are stronger, far more durable and resistant to a multitude of forces and factors and which will last considerably longer compared to previous generations of implants. They will not, however, necessarily last forever.

In 2006, the FDA issued recommendations (not a mandate) that women who have silicone breast implants as a results of breast augmentation or breast reconstruction should have an MRI starting three years after their surgery and then every other year subsequently. However, there was no scientific data to support this approach. Given the considerable expenses (and inconvenience) incurred by having these MRI’s which may not even be covered by insurance, we need to consider whether the FDA’s recommendations are really a prudent and necessary.

Research conducted at the University of Michigan and published in the March 2011 issue of the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery® journal provides some compelling answers to this issue. This research combined and analyzed 21 previous studies that assessed the ability of MRI’s to detect silicone breast implant rupture in order to arrive at their conclusions.

What they discovered was that the MRI’s overall were fairly accurate in detecting ruptured silicone breast implants. However, in certain situations their accuracy rate was extremely high. In fact, they discovered that in women who presented with symptoms related to their breast implants, the MRI’s were 14 times more likely to discern a rupture than in those women who had no symptoms. Thus, in women who were asymptomatic, they were far less helpful.

How can we use this information to formulate reasonable recommendations?

Given that silicone gel breast implants will last on average well in excess of 10 years, MRI’s are not a cost effective tool to screen for ruptured breast implants in otherwise asymptomatic women during this first decade. Instead, mammograms and/or ultrasounds should be performed. If evidence arises or there is a significant index of suspicion for rupture, an MRI can then be considered.

If you would like more information on silicone gel breast implants, breast augmentation, breast reconstruction or for any other plastic surgery procedure that I perform or to schedule a complimentary consultation, please call my office at 480-451-3000.

Steven H. Turkeltaub, M.D. P.C.
Scottsdale and Phoenix, Arizona

The term “gummy bear” breast implants has been used in the public realm for several years now yet most people know little about them. What they have heard is that they are the latest type of silicone breast implant and something that they may just want to have for their breast augmentation or breast reconstruction.

You might have wondered: “Exactly what are these breast implants and why are they named after a candy?”

You may even be thinking: “Can I have them for my surgery?”

“Gummy bear” implants are a new generation of silicone breast implants that have some of the characteristics of the candy that they were nicknamed after – though they are not also edible! These implants differ from all earlier versions in that they are composed of a very highly cohesive and form-stable (maintains their shape) gel that resembles the candy though softer.

These 5th generation breast implants have been used elsewhere around the world for breast augmentations and reconstructions since the early 1990’s. They have been extensively researched for years including in large clinical trials but have not yet been cleared by the FDA (Federal Drug Administration) for usage here in the United States although approval may be imminent. (Note: Plastic surgeons here in the United States have been hearing this for several years now – and we are still waiting!)

These new silicone breast implants do offer at least a few advantages over the current cohesive silicone gel ones (as well as some disadvantages). They have been noted to be more durable and last longer and the potential of the silicone gel migrating elsewhere is close to zero. The risk of developing hardness around the implants known as capsular contracture has been found to be lower, around an incidence of 3% as compared to 5 – 10% or more with previous generations of silicone implants.

A definite disadvantage of these “gummy bear” implants is the cost which is expected to be significantly more expensive than those that are used now. Whether this difference is an additional several hundred dollars or much more is not known as of yet. Their increased cost will definitely have some effect on their popularity and selection. Ultimately, however, several factors will play a role in influencing each woman’s decision regarding which type of silicone breast implant is right for her.

For more information on silicone gel breast implants, breast augmentation surgery or for any other plastic surgery procedure that I perform or to schedule a consultation with me, please call my office at 480-451-3000.

Steven H. Turkeltaub, M.D. P.C.
Scottsdale and Phoenix, Arizona

We are very proud to announce that Dr. Steven Turkeltaub has been chosen as a recipient of the prestigious Patients’ Choice Award for 2010. This honor recognizes those physicians across the country that have gone above and beyond to make a clear-cut difference in the lives of their patients. The criteria for the Patient’s Choice Award is based on a series of rigorous standards, which include: doctor-patient interaction time, bedside manner, follow-up care, professionalism of office support staff & overall patient experience and care . There are a myriad of physician reviews submitted by patients online everyday, but very few of these physicians being reviewed actually receive enthusiastic patient testimonials on a consistent basis. In fact, Dr. Turkeltaub is only amongst 6% of physicians across the country to receive the Patients’ Choice Award.

A very common question that many women have who are considering a breast augmentation is what their exercise restrictions will be following surgery. They might have heard or read different and sometimes conflicting information and just want to know the proper routine. This is a subject that I discuss at length during your consultation.

There is no one correct answer for activity limitations and resumption but I will tell you what I have found over the years that works and does minimize your risks for significant problems such as bleeding that can result in the formation of a hematoma (collection of blood around the implant). The rare individual who develops this usually precipitated it by engaging in prohibited vigorous activities or consuming blood thinning agents such as aspirin or anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen, naprosyn, Motrin® or Aleve® within 10 days of surgery or immediately afterwards.

It is important that you avoid any heavy lifting, straining, aerobics and sports for three weeks after your breast augmentation. This also pertains to any activity that would substantially increase your heart rate and/or blood pressure such as jogging or swimming. If as part of your work-out you do pectoralis muscle (chest wall muscle) strengthening, this should be avoided for at least 8 weeks after surgery.

You may initially find that you experience increased swelling, tightness or tenderness in one or both breasts following certain activities. Don’t worry. This is normal and will ultimately not be an issue after several months.

For more information on breast enlargement, breast implants or for any other plastic surgery procedure that I perform or to schedule a consultation with me, feel free to call my office at 480-451-3000.

Steven H. Turkeltaub, M.D. P.C.
Scottsdale and Phoenix, Arizona

The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) just issued a press release regarding the appearance of a very rare type of cancer that has been found in some women who have either saline or silicone breast implants. In these women, anaplastic large-cell lymphoma (ALCL) has been identified in the capsule (scar tissue) that forms around breast implants along with the accumulation of fluid known as a seroma. Despite these few cases, there is no evidence that there is any direct cause and effect and so more studies will need to be conducted to determine whether or not there is any relationship.

ALCL is extremely rare in general with an annual incidence in this country of 1 out of every 500,000 women. The rate of occurrence with the primary location in the breast is an infinitesimally microscopic 3 in 100,000,000 women per year. Worldwide, there have been somewhere between 34 and 60 cases of this disease out of an estimated total of 10 million or more women who have had breast implants.

How insignificant is this? The average annual risk of developing primary breast cancer in American women is 123 per 100,000 which is equivalent to 123,000 cases per 100 million women. This translates to a risk that is 41,000 times more common than ALCL.

The form of ALCL that has been identified in women who also have breast implants is a relatively “benign” disease that presents with a consistent constellation of symptoms that can facilitate the diagnosis once a level of suspicion is raised. These findings include the onset of pain in the affected breast associated with a mass and a rapid increase in size as a consequence of the accumulation of fluid. The median time of occurrence of ALCL following the placement of breast implants is 8 years.

Once the diagnosis is made, treatment is straightforward and curative with no need for chemotherapy or radiation therapy. The cure is simply the removal of the scar tissue (capsule) that surrounds the implant which is the location of the disease. Some of the affected women actually had new implants reinserted without untoward consequence though studies will need to be performed to determine the advisability of this. Importantly, there have never been any report of death associated with ALCL.

To sum up the findings of anaplastic large-cell lymphoma (ALCL) with regards to breast implants:

1. no association has been firmly established between the disease and either saline or silicone breast implants
2. the constellation of presenting symptoms can make the diagnosis of this relatively easy with a level of suspicion
3. the disease is quite benign and completely cured with surgical removal of the capsule surrounding the breast implant
4. there is no need for chemotherapy or radiation therapy
5. no deaths have been reported

For more information on ALCL, you can read the FDA’s report as well as visit the American Society of Plastic Surgeons website.

If you have any questions regarding this issue or on any cosmetic or reconstructive breast surgery or other plastic surgery procedure that I perform, please feel free to call my office at 480-451-3000. You can also schedule a complimentary consultation at that time.

Steven H. Turkeltaub, M.D. P.C.
Scottsdale and Phoenix, Arizona

Do you find searching for an attractive bra a frustrating or boring experience? The lingerie company La Senza, a subsidiary of the Limited Brands which also owns Victoria’s Secret, might have found a great solution. It has created a video showcasing some of its bras that is quite entertaining for both women and men and even has a holiday theme.

Now this isn’t just any video. It is a “musical” video featuring an assemblage of seven scantily clad voluptuous models each wearing a different sized cup ranging from an “A” to a “G”. Called “The Cup Size Choir”, these models are filmed provocatively lying in beds singing the Christmas song “Deck the Halls” with each one singing a musical note based on her bra cup size. Simply put, the model wearing the “A” cup sings all the “A” notes, the “B” cup one sings all the “B” notes, etc.

Not surprisingly, this video has become an internet sensation (for good reasons). You may want to watch it again and again together  with your significant other. They probably won’t mind!

If after viewing this video (and with some previous consideration) you could just imagine yourself filling up and alluringly wearing one of these attractive bras but don’t have what it takes yet – feel free to give us a call. We would be happy to provide you with information on breast enlargement surgery, breast lifts or on any other plastic surgery that you may be considering. You can also schedule a complimentary consultation with me.

Steven H. Turkeltaub, M.D. P.C.
Scottsdale and Phoenix, Arizona

For any breast procedure requiring the placement of breast implants, my patients are offered the option of using either silicone or saline implants. This would include women who are considering breast augmentation, breast lift with implants, breast implant exchange and breast reconstruction. I thoroughly discuss with them all the important and relevant information about these two types of implants such as appearance, feel, durability, aesthetics, rupture, risks and possible areas of concern. They also are able to touch and closely examine both the silicone and saline implants.

What have I found is the overwhelming majority of my patients select the silicone implants for both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures and they definitely don’t regret the choice. The aesthetic results and much higher level of satisfaction irrefutably support the substantially greater superiority of silicone implants as compared to the saline ones. This is true for both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. In my practice it is quite rare now for a woman to opt for saline implants and when they do it is virtually always because they cost $1,000 less a pair which then makes the cosmetic surgery affordable.

This finding is consistent with the medical literature including research just published in the November issue of “Cancer”. This multicenter study examined and analyzed the responses obtained from 672 women who had post-mastectomy (for breast cancer) breast reconstruction utilizing either silicone or saline implants. The results revealed a statistically significant greater level of satisfaction in women who chose the silicone breast implants for their reconstruction as opposed to the saline ones.

So, if you are interesting in pursuing either a cosmetic or reconstructive breast procedure that involves the usage of breast implants and were initially leaning toward saline implants you may want to strongly reconsider.

For additional information on silicone or saline breast implants, breast augmentation, breast reconstruction or for any other plastic surgery procedure that I perform or to schedule a consultation, please call my office at 480-451-3000.

Steven H. Turkeltaub, M.D. P.C.
Scottsdale and Phoenix, Arizona