Category: Uncategorized

Beware of Red Spots-Possible Skin Cancer

In my practice, a lot of patients point out to me red spots located on their faces and body. It is important to realize that some of these red areas may be early or actual skin cancer. The most common types of red spots are actinic keratosis (premalignant) and basal cell carcinomas.

It is very difficult for a patient to determine what these lesions represent. Typically, a red lesion that is present for many months, that itches, is scaly and flakes, is of concern. A strong history of sun exposure and a fair skinned individual are at high risk for developing these lesions.

When I see these lesions, a biopsy must be done to determine a diagnosis. In most cases, various anticancer creams can be applied to non-cancerous lesions. If a basal cell cancer is found, a minor surgery or radiation therapy is used to treat these cancers. It is important to realize that these cancers are not life threatening as long as they are caught early and treated. It is my advice that everyone examine their selves regularly and see their doctor for any suspicious lesions.

This entry was posted on Monday, November 29th, 2010 at 8:58 pm and is filed under Uncategorized.

How to look good without downtime

Today, most patients want facial improvement and a youthful appearance without surgery, discomfort or prolonged swelling and bruising. This can be accomplished with facial fillers (Juvederm, Radiesse).

As we age, the underlying facial soft tissue atrophies and we begin to hallow out. Laugh lines, crow’s feet and other facial wrinkles develop causing us to look older and less vibrant than we feel. Today, natural and biocompatible substances such as hyaluronic acid (Restylane, hylaform), calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse) and fat are helping to restore a more youthful appearance for millions of women and men. Research is ongoing, and new products are constantly being developed that further expand the choices available to physicians and patients.

Fillers are used to fill lines, wrinkles and lips. They may also be used to reduce the appearance of scarring caused by acne, chicken pox or injury. We also use them to augment cheeks and chins. One of the ways I am using fillers if for facial shaping. By building up the cheekbones and using hylaform to fill the indent in front of the jowls, disguising it, I can give the face a younger shape.

This entry was posted on Monday, November 29th, 2010 at 9:01 pm and is filed under Uncategorized.

Early Detection of Skin Cancer May Save Your Life!

Skin cancer today is quite prevalent. We are all exposed constantly to the sun. Many of us as teenagers and adults enjoy the benefits of a body that is tan and radiant. However, the sun damages our skin from its ultraviolet radiation and can cause skin cancer.

Black/brown lesions with irregular borders are suspicious for early cancer. Lesions that change in color or size are also of concern. When these types of lesions are seen, a biopsy is required. This is a simple procedure performed in the office. If the biopsy returns atypia, a excision of the area will be necessary. By early detection, lives may be saved and deformity minimized.

For additional information or to schedule a complimentary consultation, please contact our office, 714-738-4282

Dr. Robert Wald

This entry was posted on Wednesday, April 4th, 2012 at 2:53 am and is filed under Uncategorized.

Facelift scars, can they be seen?

One of the greatest concerns from my patients inquiring about facial rejuvenation are the scars. The incisions that are used in a facelift are placed in the natural folds of the ear and hairline. As a result, there incisions heal beautifully and in most cases are barely visible. It is rare that anyone can see these scars since they blend so naturally. Following surgery, makeup is used to cover these incisions for 1 month while they are healing.

Please contact our office with any questions or concerns, or to schedule a complimentary consultation, 714-738-4282.

Robert M. Wald, Jr., MD
The Aesthetic Institute

This entry was posted on Sunday, December 23rd, 2012 at 8:29 pm and is filed under Uncategorized.

Surgery, whether elective or deemed necessary, requires a certain protocol for recovery. Knowing the proper way to recover from surgery will not only assure adequate healing, but may also decrease recovery time.

Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions

Any surgical procedure, no matter how small, causes some degree of trauma to the body. Understanding this will guide the steps of recovery and help determine what the body needs to heal. Recovery may include instructions such as not to lift anything above a certain weight limit, limitations on bathing/showering, or a particular diet may be prescribed. It is essential that the patients follow the instructions given by their surgeon, despite how well they feel or how insignificant the instructions may seem.

Often, as patients recover from such surgical procedures, they forego the steps of recovery because they feel well enough to do so, or they feel it doesn’t apply to them. It is with a patient’s well-being in mind that the surgeon advises restrictions against certain daily activities. Jumping back into regular work or exercise routines prematurely will not only hinder one’s progress in recovery, but it may actually prolong it.

Healthy Diet

Good nutrition is also necessary for a speedy recovery. When the body has undergone any surgeries, it requires an increased amount of nutrients that will promote healing. It is essential to eat a variety of foods to get all of the calories, lean proteins, minerals, and vitamins needed to recover. Surgeons will often prescribe a specific diet, and it is important to follow it as much as possible, as it will prevent infections and certain complications. If a diet is not prescribed, making healthy food choices will aid in recovery nonetheless.

Keep All Follow-Up Appointments

Last, but not least, it is imperative to keep all follow-up appointments. If a patient’s recovery has progressed without complications, an appointment with the doctor may seem unnecessary. Surgeons need to monitor their patient’s recovery for many reasons, one of which is to assess for less obvious complications. In addition, surgeons must confirm that each patient has been adequately treated and determine whether any additional follow-up care is needed.

If you are considering any plastic surgical procedure, we encourage you to call The Aesthetic Institute in Fullerton, California. Our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Robert M. Wald, regularly helps men and women all over Orange County achieve the look they desire. To schedule your consultation with Dr. Wald, please call us at (888) 401-2806 or fill out our online contact form. We look forward to meeting you!

This entry was posted on Sunday, December 22nd, 2013 at 6:00 am and is filed under Uncategorized.