LOS ANGELES, Calif. – As advanced technology ushers in a new era in aesthetic procedures, Epione Medical Corporation continues to provide revolutionary new options for men and women seeking alternatives to common surgeries. Recently, the company introduced its trademark laser breast lift, a non-surgical breast enhancement procedure that firms and lifts the skin. Utilizing the Coolbeam™ laser, available exclusively at Epione’s Beverly Hills’ offices, the procedure eliminates undesirable sagging and delivers long-lasting results.

“Breast enhancement procedures are a highly popular option for women who want to turn back the hands of time, improve self-esteem and reclaim their sexuality,” said Dr. Simon Ourian, medical director of Epione Medical Corporation. “Epione’s laser breast lift is ideal for women in their thirties or older who experience sagging or heavy breasts, and want an improved appearance without the invasiveness of surgery.”

In 2009, breast enhancement outpaced all other cosmetic surgeries, according to recent data released by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.

Revolutionary Non-surgical Laser Breast Enhancement Procedure Offers Safe, Long-Lasting Alternative to Surgery

However, while breast enhancement surgeries remain popular, many women still worry about scarring, loss of sensation, recovery time and other complications often associated with breast surgery. Epione’s laser breast lift, a revolutionary alternative that does not require a scalpel, eliminates common concerns, while successfully eliminating the damage done by gravity, age, pregnancy and other factors.

During the laser breast lift procedure, the laser light is absorbed by water in the skin cells around the breast tissue, removing extra tissue and tightening the collagen fibers in the surrounding skin. With each treatment, the skin appears softer and firmer, resulting in a more youthful appearance.

While the level of discomfort and pain varies for each patient, some temporary swelling and redness should be expected in the first few days after the procedure. Over-the-counter medication is typically sufficient to alleviate discomfort, however alternative pain relief may be recommended. After the procedure, most patients are able to return to work the following day.

“We are committed to providing our patients with cutting-edge, age-defying solutions that help them feel more confident, attractive and more in control of the aging process,” said Dr. Ourian. “Schedule an appointment to come in and discuss how we can help you look and feel younger and more vital. With our advanced technology and trademark innovation, your options are endless.”

For more information about the laser breast lift and other procedures available at Epione, including breast scar removal and breast stretch-marks removal, visit www.epione.com. Join the company’s online mailing list today and receive an instant gift certificate.

About Epione Medical Corporation
Epione, located in the heart of Beverly Hills, is one of the most comprehensive, state of the art laser and aesthetic surgery centers of its kind in the world. Epione is designed to offer clients comfort, convenience and privacy. The practice specializes in the most current technology available for skin, hair, and body contouring, and its staff is dedicated to providing our clients with the highest level of personal attention and care. For more information, call Epione at (888) 951-3377 or visit www.epione.com.

Beverly Hills, CA– One of the downsides of dermal filler injections is the pain associated with the injection itself. For some, this discomfort or the fear of this discomfort may be enough to prevent them from receiving any treatment at all. In an effort to improve the patient experience the manufacturers of the most popular dermal fillers, Juvéderm, Radiesse and Restylane, have produced new formulations that include lidocaine as part of their pre-filled syringe dosage units.

Originally, the only fillers that contained lidocaine were collagen based. The bovine collagen fillers were sold under the names Zyderm I, Zyderm II, and Zyplast. The human collagen fillers were known as CosmDerm I, CosmoDerm II, and CosmoPlast. Doctors quickly realized that adding lidocaine to the injections not only helped relieve pain, but also lessened swelling and bruising in their patients.

After this, lidocaine was added to other fillers. In a 2008 study Restylane injections were tested for any changes when combined with lidocaine. The study showed no changes, and early results suggested that the lidocaine could increase patient comfort during the procedure. Soon, Juvederm injections and Radiesse injections were given the lidocaine treatment.

“I have been mixing lidocaine with fillers for some time now,” states Dr. Simon Ourian, Medical Director of Epione Beverly Hills. “At the end of the day, I want to provide optimal results while keeping my patients as comfortable as possible.” Dr. Ourian’s patients seem to agree: In the words of G.G., “Thank you!!! Great staff – am really happy that Dr. Ourian is so experienced and reasonably conservative that he does not over-do the treatments- i.e. he adds a little Radiesse the next time he sees you to achieve the results he wants – Great work!!”

Epione offers Restylane before and after photos, Radiesse before and after photos and Juvéderm before and after photos on www.epione.com. This is also an excellent source of for finding dermal filler side effects information as well as dermal filler cost.

Lidocaine helps eliminate pain when receiving the fillers, but patients should remember that other preparations are helpful before treatment in order to get best results. Fish oils should be

Treatment Will Be Less Painful With Dermal Fillers; Juvéderm®, Radiesse® and Restylane® Pre-filled Syringes Mixed With Lidocaine. These new formulations allow for a better patient experience and quicker recovery.

avoided, as well as aspirins, NSAIDs, and St. John’s Wort. Alcohol should also be avoided, as should garlic and ginger because all of these can trigger additional bruising and swelling. With treatments around the mouth the patient must be sure that he or she eats beforehand because he or she may be asked not to move the mouth for up to four hours afterward.

Epione Medical Corporation, located in Beverly Hills Golden Triangle, is among the most comprehensive and state-of-the-art laser and aesthetic surgery centers. Dr. Ourian has been a pioneer for laser technology and non-invasive aesthetic procedures including Restylane®, BOTOX®, Juvéderm®, Radiesse® and Sculptra®. These treatments are used for correction or reversal of a variety of conditions such as acne, acne scars, acne scar removal, skin discoloration, lip enhancement, wrinkles, stretch marks, varicose veins, cellulite, and tens of others. Laser hair removal and laser tattoo removal are offered too. Epione also carries Doctor Ourian’s Signature Series skin care products. For further information please contact 310-271-6506 or visit: www.epione.com.

March 5, 2010 – Beverly Hills, CA – Dr. Simon Ourian, Medical Director of Epione Beverly Hills, California treats celebrities all the time. “I see a lot of models and actresses in my practice and stretch mark removal is one of their biggest concerns. And for more of them than you might imagine,” states Doctor Ourian.

Stretch marks are a condition that affect men and women alike. Stretch marks are the result of the dermis becoming stretched due to sudden weight gain or weight loss. Stretch marks during pregnancy are very common. Stretch marks can show up almost anywhere on the body including the stomach, breasts, upper arms and more.

While not physically painful, stretch marks can exact an emotional toll. Sufferers can expend an enormous amount of energy hiding

Hollywood celebrities are always looking for the latest and greatest cosmetic treatments. At one Beverly Hills clinic they can find the newest way to treat their stretch marks.

their stretch marks. This includes wearing pants instead of shorts to cover up stretch marks on the thighs or wearing one piece bathing suits instead of bikinis to the beach or pool to cover up stretch marks on the stomach and flanks,.

“If you’re in the public eye every flaw is magnified,” says Dr. Ourian. “There are paparazzi everywhere they go who profit from taking unflattering photos, we’ve all seen them. No one is immune these days. In particular, female celebrities face enormous pressure to look a certain way and some of them come to me for stretch mark treatment.”

“Stretch marks don’t discriminate,” continues Dr. Ourian. “If you get pregnant you’re prone to getting stretch marks; even if you are a celebrity. New moms such as Jessica Alba, Nicole Richie and Gwen Stefani may have stretch marks from pregnancy. Unfortunately no one is immune, though genetics and the amount of weight gain play a large role in the severity of the stretch marks.”

“I just typed ‘celebrity stretch marks’ into Google,” Doctor Ourian continues, “and there are uncomplimentary photos of Katie Holms, Cindy Crawford and Britney Spears. And that’s just the first page of results!”

Doctor Ourian goes on to explain what he believes to be the most effective way to treat stretch marks. “I developed the Coolbeam™ treatment specifically to treat both red and white stretch marks. In my opinion it achieves better results than other lasers and modalities.”

Dr. Ourian’s patients report little, if any pain with their Coolbeam treatments. A topical anesthetic cream is sometimes applies to lessen any potential discomfort for particularly sensitive patients.

Stretch mark before and after photos are available on www.epione.com. Epione offers free consultations for anyone interested in stretch mark removal. During this consultation prospective clients will learn all they need to about stretch mark removal cost.

Dr. Ourian’s Epione Medical Corporation, located in Beverly Hills Golden Triangle, is among the most comprehensive and state-of-the-art laser and aesthetic surgery centers. Dr. Ourian has been a pioneer for laser technology and non-invasive aesthetic procedures including Restylane®, BOTOX®, Juvéderm®, Radiesse® and Hydrelle®. These treatments are used for correction or reversal of a variety of conditions such as acne, acne scars, acne scar removal, skin discoloration, lip enhancement, wrinkles, stretch marks, varicose veins, cellulite, and tens of others. Laser hair removal and laser tattoos are offered too. Epione also carries Dr. Ourian’s Signature Series skin care products. For further information please contact 888-951-3377 or visit: www.epione.com.

Beverly Hills, CA, March 3, 2010—Dr. Simon Ourian, Medical Director of Epione Medical Corporation, revealed his method for determining the physical age of a client’s skin. By using a special machine, he can examine data from a number of different readouts to tell the client exactly how much skin damage they have suffered.

According to Dr. Ourian the Complexion Analysis System shows “more detailed specifications of aging.” The system can detect early stages of discoloration, UV ray damage, fine lines, and even enlarging pores. By using this data in combination with his extensive training and experience, Dr. Ourian can give patients valuable information on the health of their skin. “I look at the textural changes which shows me if a person is getting hollowness in their face…so I use all this information…that helps me with determining with how I’m going to address a person’s aging,” he said.

Indeed, many clients discover that the physical age of their skin is often much older than their chronological age. For some, the difference can be as much as ten years. Some are sun worshippers from years past; some have medical conditions that cause damage, while others have merely neglected to take care of their skin as they should. Clients come in all ages, shapes, sizes and colors.

Dr. Ourian points out that avoiding skin damage is fairly simple at its core. Wearing sun block daily, no matter what the melanin count or weather is, is mandatory. Staying out of the sun is very important, since sun block can only provide a limited amount of protection. Lastly, large hats and long sleeves help shield the skin from UV rays.

Once the damage has been identified, the next phase is treatment. Dr. Ourian has options for his patients, such as dermal filler injections with Radiesse® or Juvéderm® to get rid of hollows under the eyes and Coolaser™ laser resurfacing treatments to get rid of fine lines and wrinkles. Laser resurfacing before and after photos and laser resurfacing side effects information can be found on www.epione.com.

The cosmetic procedures recommended by Dr. Ourian are very popular due to their swift results. “If you have a lot of sun damage and discolorations on

On March 1, 2010 Dr. Simon Ourian was featured on KABC7 Los Angeles’ 11:00 News demonstrating a system that can reveal the skin’s true age. With help from this device Dr. Ourian is able to obtain the deepest possible understanding of a patient’s skin.

your skin the best treatment that we have found is a Coolaser or a fractional laser that removes the top layer of the skin and gives you brand new baby skin,” he said. Both procedures target the damaged areas only, which allows skin to heal much faster than previous laser treatments. The procedures also take very little time; many of them can be done during a lunch hour, with little to no visible scarring or side effects.

Epione offers a free consultation including an evaluation with the Complexion Analysis System. Radiesse before and after photos and Juvéderm before and after photos can be seen on www.epione.com. Information on Radiesse side effects and Juvéderm side effects can also be found there.

Epione Medical Corporation, located in Beverly Hills Golden Triangle, is among the most comprehensive and state-of-the-art laser and aesthetic surgery centers. Dr. Ourian has been a pioneer for laser technology and non-invasive aesthetic procedures including Restylane®, BOTOX®, Juvéderm®, Radiesse® and Sculptra®. These treatments are used for correction or reversal of a variety of conditions such as acne, acne scars, acne scar removal, skin discoloration, lip enhancement, wrinkles, stretch marks, varicose veins, cellulite, and tens of others. Laser hair removal and laser tattoo removal are offered too. Epione also carries Doctor Ourian’s Signature Series skin care products. For further information please contact 310-271-6506 or visit: www.epione.com.

BOTOX® can not only make you look better it can make you feel better too. New studies indicate there is a correlation between the neuromuscular properties of BOTOX® and the brain’s ability to process negative emotions.

BOTOX® may not just make you look good, but it can actually make you feel good, according to a study conducted at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Studies have shown that according to facial feedback hypothesis, BOTOX® can help patients manage their anger and other negative emotions.

A University of Wisconsin-Madison graduate student decided to study people who had been given BOTOX® treatments that paralyzed one pair of their corrugator muscles. These muscles are the ones used in the forehead in order to frown. He used the idea of facial feedback hypothesis as his basis.

Facial feedback hypothesis states that a person can alter their mood simply by altering their expressions. For instance, someone who has had a bad day can feel better by smiling. BOTOX® has been known to affect the ability of recipients to convey emotions like anger, and has also been known to help depression, according to a 2006 study done by the Society of Dermatologic Surgery.

During the study, 40 volunteers read statements designed to trigger two particular emotions: angry (“someone just cut you off on the freeway”), sad (“you just discovered that your favorite restaurant shut down”), or happy (“you just got an unexpected check in the mail”). The volunteers pushed a button to show they understood each sentence. Two weeks later, the volunteers got BOTOX® injections for the first time. They then repeated the exercise, having been given another set of emotionally triggering sentences.

The happy sentences were responded to just as quickly as before, but it took the volunteers longer to respond to the angry or sad statements. The idea is that since BOTOX® inhibits the ability to frown, the facial feedback is no longer there. As a result, the volunteers experienced a delay in their response to the statements.

The goal of the experiment was to examine how the comprehension of emotional language relies on physical expression, as well as brainpower. The research indicates the correlation between language, emotions and facial movements.

What appears to happen, is that the normal flow of signals to the brain is interrupted and the ability to appreciate the intensity of emotion when embedded in language. This disruption, maybe less than a second in duration, but this is enough in general conversation where participants are responding quickly to subtle, fast cues. A study at Northwestern University shows that the power of BOTOX® to eliminate brow furrows and forehead creases actually adjusts our emotions to make us happier.

Facial feedback hypothesis is part of a growing field called “embodied cognition”. This field assumes that all cognitive processes are rooted in, and reflected in, the body. Studies in this field have shown that people lean forward when they talk about future events, for instance, but lean back when they discuss the past. When they hold a mug of hot coffee they judge others as warmer and friendlier than when they choose an iced latte. When they ponder their sins, they have an urge to wash.

So the next time you see those frown lines appearing, feel free to get BOTOX®. You may find yourself in a better mood–and not just because you look fantastic. Epione Beverly Hills is a Black Diamond provider of BOTOX®, an award bestowed by Allergan, Inc. on the top 1% of injectors. Epione offers free consultations to discuss BOTOX® cost and Epione’s website, www.epione.com, is a good place to find BOTOX® before and after photos. BOTOX® side effects include injection site discomfort, tiredness, headache, and neck discomfort. BOTOX® side effects may include ptosis or drooping eyelid.

Epione Medical Corporation, located in Beverly Hills Golden Triangle, is among the most comprehensive and state-of-the-art laser and aesthetic surgery centers. Dr. Ourian has been a pioneer for laser technology and non-invasive aesthetic procedures including Restylane, BOTOX®, Juvéderm, Radiesse and Sculptra. These treatments are used for correction or reversal of a variety of conditions such as acne, acne scars, acne scar removal, skin discoloration, lip enhancement, wrinkles, stretch marks, varicose veins, cellulite, and tens of others. Laser hair removal and laser tattoo removal are offered too. Epione also carries Doctor Ourian’s Signature Series skin care products. For further information please contact 310-271-6506 or visit: www.epione.com.

Dr. Simon Ourian of Epione Beverly Hills investigates the most popular dermal fillers available on the market today.

Dr. Simon Ourian, a newly minted member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS), is the Medical Director of Epione Medical Corporation and a substantial part of his daily practice is treating fine lines and wrinkles. Dr. Ourian is a Black Diamond provider of BOTOX® (given only to the top 1% of Allergan, Inc. BOTOX® accounts) and one of the busiest Radiesse® and Juvéderm® injectors in the country. This experience gives him a unique insight to the pros and cons of the dermal fillers available on the market today.

For the uninitiated, Radiesse®, Juvéderm® and Restylane®, known collectively as dermal fillers, are used to reduce signs of aging on the face. “Another basic explanation is necessary,” says Dr. Ourian. “There are two types of wrinkles: static wrinkles and dynamic wrinkles. You can see a static wrinkle when your face is at rest. They are often visible in the nasolabial folds. Dermal fillers injections can be used to correct static wrinkles. Dynamic wrinkles occur when you use your facial muscles to smile or frown. Crow’s feet are a good example of dynamic wrinkles. For dynamic wrinkles BOTOX® injections are the treatment of choice.”

As we grow older wrinkles, sags and lines begin to emerge. Many men and women want a more youthful appearance and look for ways to reduce the signs of aging that they see on their faces. Surgery is one way to address these issues. Surgery cost is generally higher than minimally invasive options, may have a long recovery time and includes the risks of general anesthesia. Dermal filler injections offer are a minimally invasive method to reduce the signs of aging.

“What is the best dermal filler?” asks Dr. Ourian. “The one that’s most suitable to meeting your aesthetic goals. Every patient needs to be examined and their needs, goals and budget discussed before I can make a recommendation. What I offer is my ten plus years of experience, it’s really a collaborative process.”

Dr. Ourian offers a variety of dermal fillers for his patients. Some of those include:

• Restylane: Manufactured by Medicis Pharmaceutical Corporation; Medicis claims that Restylane is the best selling dermal filler in the world. Is made from one of the structural components of skin, hyaluronic acid. It is considered a semi-permanent filler and will last six to twelve months. Typical Restylane side effects include temporary injections site reactions such as tenderness, swelling, lumps, swelling, itching, bruising and discoloration. Restylane before and after photos are available on www.epione.com. Restylane cost is a function of the number of areas treated and the extent of treatment required.

• Radiesse: Formerly known as Radiance and Manufactured by Bioform Medical Inc., Radiesse is composed of calcium based microspheres suspended in a water based gel. Bioform has published clinical data to support their claim that Radiesse may last two years or more. Radiesse is also reported to stimulate the body to produce new collagen, a process called collagenesis. Typical Radiesse side effects include temporary injections site reactions such as tenderness, swelling, lumps, swelling, itching, bruising and discoloration. Radiesse before and after photos are available on www.epione.com. Radiesse cost is a function of the number of areas treated and the extent of treatment required.
• Juvéderm: Manufactured by Allergan, Inc. (the makers of Botox), Juvéderm is an FDA approved hyaluronic acid filler that lasts up to a year. According to Allergan, Juvéderm is the first hyaluronic acid dermal filler that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved as being effective and safe for persons of color. Typical Juvéderm side effects include temporary injections site reactions such as tenderness, swelling, lumps, swelling, itching, bruising and discoloration. Juvéderm before and after photos are available on www.epione.com. Juvéderm cost is a function of the number of areas treated and the extent of treatment required.

In the words of L.B., an Epione patient that received Radiesse injections, “The Radiesse treatment was quick and painless. It appears that the results are immediate.” Adds patient G.G.: “Thank you!!! Great staff – (I) am really happy that Dr. Ourian is so experienced and reasonably conservative that he does not over-do the treatments- i.e. he adds a little Radiesse the next time he sees you to achieve the results he wants-Great work!! ”

Doctor Ourian’s Epione Medical Corporation, located in Beverly Hills Golden Triangle, is among the most comprehensive and state-of-the-art laser and aesthetic surgery centers. Dr. Ourian has been a pioneer for laser technology and non-invasive aesthetic procedures including Restylane, BOTOX®, Juvéderm, Radiesse and Sculptra. These treatments are used for correction or reversal of a variety of conditions such as acne, acne scars, acne scar removal, skin discoloration, lip enhancement, wrinkles, stretch marks, varicose veins, cellulite, and tens of others. Laser hair removal and laser tattoo removal are offered too. Epione also carries Doctor Ourian’s Signature Series skin care products. For further information please contact 310-271-6506 or visit: www.epione.com.

Every year, more Los Angeles cosmetic surgeons are being asked to do breast cancer scar tissue removal. More specifically, the scar tissue is the result of surgery done to treat breast cancer, like mastectomy or lumpectomy. Secondary surgical procedures can be done to remove scar tissue formed during previous breast cancer surgery. In fact, there are several breast cancer scar tissue removal experts in the Los Angeles area. These highly specialized plastic surgeons devote their entire practice to scar removal techniques.

For some luckier patients in Los Angeles, breast cancer scar tissue removal can be accomplished with non-surgical techniques. This is where the process starts for many people. Products like breast scar reduction creams, silicone scar sheets, and hydrogel scar sheets are used to reduce, lighten, and eliminate smaller scars. You will need to research any of these types of products, to see if you will be able to see any real results from the products. The best way to do this is to consult a cosmetic or facial plastic surgeon.
Laser surgery resurfacing can also be used to removal scar tissue. In the Los Angeles area, this is the most frequently used breast cancer scar removal technique. Los Angeles breast cancer scar tissue removal patients have experienced great success from the technique. The technique involves eliminating scars by strategically removing small amounts of scar tissue at a time. The Intense heat of the laser dissolves the scar tissue. It can often take several treatments to accomplish the goal of scar removal, but the technique is very safe, and has few side effects.

Scar reduction surgery is another very popular Los Angeles breast cancer scar tissue removal procedure. The technique involves a true secondary surgery, so it is typically only performed on patients who have truly deep, significant scarring from their breast cancer surgery. The physician will need to do a full initial evaluation, to set up a treatment plan, and set goals for what will be accomplished during any secondary surgery. Often dermabrasion is used in conjunction with this type of surgery, to help eliminate scarring in areas that cannot be surgically removed.

For some people in Los Angeles, breast cancer scar tissue removal surgery may be the only viable option. This tends to be especially true for darker skinned women. It is not always understood why, but darker skinned women tend to just develop more scar tissue from surgery. The issue of getting skin pigmentation correct may also come into play, when a Los Angeles breast cancer scar tissue removal expert makes an evaluation of how to remove bad scarring. The emotional effects of breast cancer surgery can be very devastating. So, you will want to seek help from a qualified surgeon. This is your best option for eliminating scarring that can often be the result of breast cancer surgery.

February 24, 2010–Epione Medical Corporation, under the guidance of Medical Director Simon Ourian, M.D., has been using a novel approach to make hands look younger and softer. The treatment method involves Radiesse® injections, the dermal filler used to treat facial wrinkles and folds.

“With Radiesse injections I can offer my patients a non-surgical option that is considered safe with a recovery that is typically quick with little downtime, if any” says Dr. Ourian. “We offer this treatment on an out-patient basis at my Beverly Hills clinic. I meet with each patient and customize a treatment plan for them, injecting only the amount of Radiesse required. I can do a touch-up treatment later if necessary to achieve the maximum aesthetic result.”

Radiesse (formerly known as Radiance), which has two FDA approvals, is made from calcium based microspheres suspended in a water based gel. Radiesse injections are placed in strategic areas in the hands to plump up the skin. It can fill in the spots that no longer have their natural fat deposits, and shape and contour the skin. The treatment takes only 15 minutes, and patients can be out and about almost immediately. Results are visible right after treatment. Unlike other dermal fillers, Radiesse stays soft and takes on the characteristics of the surrounding tissue. Eventually, the calcium spheres slowly break down, leaving newly generated collagen behind. The manufacturers of Radiesse call this process “collagensis.” Because of its ability to help the body produce its own natural filler, a few treatments may be all you need.
Finding Radiesse hand rejuvenation before and after photos is simple: go to www.Epione.com and type in “hand rejuvenation photos Radiesse.” The before and after results, especially those that deal with fillers, are very striking; bony hands become fuller, and wrinkles are smoothed out.

The cost of Radiesse injections treatments for hands may vary depending on the extent of the treatment required to restore a youthful look. Radiesse side effects for this treatment are generally considered fairly minor, including swelling, itching and some soreness. Fortunately, the side effects typically last for a day or two. Epione, has many different payment plans to help make patient experience a pleasant and financially viable one.

Dr. Ourian has considerable experience with Radiesse. “Am I the top Radiesse injector”, Dr. Ourian asks with a smile, “it’s not for me to say. But I do know from the manufacturers of Radiesse that I’m one of the busiest injectors in the country. I like to think that I have more experience with Radiesse that most doctors, even plastic surgeons, and that my results speak for themselves.”

Dr. Ourian’s Epione Medical Corporation, located in Beverly Hills Golden Triangle, is among the most comprehensive and state-of-the-art laser and aesthetic surgery centers. Dr. Ourian has been a pioneer for laser technology and non-invasive aesthetic procedures including Restylane®, BOTOX®, Juvéderm®, Radiesse® and Hydrelle®. These treatments are used for correction or reversal of a variety of conditions such as acne, acne scars, acne scar removal, skin discoloration, lip enhancement, wrinkles, stretch marks, varicose veins, cellulite, and tens of others. Laser hair removal and laser tattoos are offered too. Epione also carries Dr. Ourian’s Signature Series skin care products. For further information please contact 888-951-3377 or visit: www.epione.com.

Many people consider themselves do-it-yourselfers. They bake their own bread, make their own wine, sew their own clothes or repair their own equipment. But one thing that should never be done is do-it-yourself (DIY) plastic surgery.

According to the British newspaper the Metro, the rise in DIY plastic surgery has been apparent since 2007. Images of celebrities are everywhere, and their perfect faces and physiques have led to a rise in body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). BDD patients have a distorted view or his or her appearance, usually thinking of themselves as less attractive than they actually are.

DIY plastic surgery is not just a problem in the UK. It happens all over the world. In Korea, a beautiful young woman by the name of Hang Mioku got her first cosmetic procedure done at the tender age of 28. She developed an addiction that was so strong she was driven to find a doctor who could provide her with a syringe and silicone to do her own injections. To make matters worse, when she could no longer afford the silicone, she began using cooking oil instead. In order to fix the damage, doctors had to remove half a pound of foreign matter from her face and neck.

In the United States, we have the same problem. “Botox parties” became popular in the early millennium. Botox kits and even instructional videos can be found on the internet. What many people may not remember is that Botox is made from botulinum toxin, the same bacteria that causes food poisoning. In the hands of a professional physician, Botox can smooth out wrinkles, eliminate muscle spasms, and even ease migraine headaches by temporarily paralyzing muscles. In the wrong hands, however, improper use can lead to infection and in some cases, death.

Dr. Simon Ourian of Epione in Beverly Hills warns about the dangers of DIY surgery and Botox injections. “Many people try to cut costs by doing things themselves, but I see bad work done by even good doctors,” he says. “The new trend I am seeing now is horrible, in some cases irreversible, work by patients performed on themselves.”

Here are Dr. Ourian’s five steps to make sure you get good results:

1. Go to a reputable doctor; do your homework; ask your friends in the know and find out who is the most experienced doctor in your area.

2. Insist on seeing the packaging of the Botox or dermal filler that is injected into you and confirm that it is made in the United States.

3. Check the expiration date on the package.

4. Make sure the person who is injecting you is the licensed to do so.

5. If you are OK with an RN injecting you, make sure at the very least you meet the doctor first. (In most states doctors MUST physically examine you before they prescribe a medication…and yes, Botox and Restylane are medications.)

In the quest to save money, plastic surgery candidates will often turn to online pharmacies and other websites. But not all of these sources are what they seem. Here’s how you can identify an illegal pharmacy or website:

1. They are not licensed by any federal or state regulatory agencies or have no certification from the National Association Boards of Pharmacy’s Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Site.

2. They constantly spam their customers and promote the more illegal aspects of their business via search engines.

3. They do not require a doctor’s visit for a prescription—and advertise this heavily on the site. Beware also of “free online doctor consultations.”

4. Legitimate pharmacies will have a full inventory of medications, while disreputable ones will only carry the most popular ones. Examples are weight loss medications and painkillers.

5. Last but not least, no physical address is listed. The site could be based anywhere, even if it claims to be in Canada.

Lisa Kudrow and Tori Spelling had nose jobs at 16. 17 year old Britney Spears, with mom’s permission, got breast implants. When teens see celebrity peers getting plastic surgery, they may decide that their own looks need improving. Some, like Ashley Tisdale and Soleil Moon Frye, may need surgery for medical reasons, but most teen surgery is cosmetic, not corrective in nature.

Teens only make up 2 percent of cosmetic surgery patients in the U.S., but according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the number is getting larger. In 2008, 81,885 invasive surgeries were done on teens, ages 13-19, while 219,136 received minimally invasive treatment. Many people think that the average teen requesting this is probably spoiled, rich and overly obsessed with image, but not all fall into that category. The reasons for plastic surgery can vary depending on the circumstances.

Reasons to Avoid the Knife

Teens, being who they are, desire plastic surgery in order to fit in with their friends. They may feel that having bigger breasts or a more defined chin may finally give them the popularity they have always dreamed of. Of course, this is not always the case, and when it fails to change their social lives, they can be devastated.

Unfortunately, there are other surgeons who are perfectly willing to do surgery on a teen without screening them first. Parents, too, are occasionally to blame; they may want “the perfect child” and insist that the surgery be done.

Because of this, a good surgeon will carefully interview a candidate to make sure they are emotionally stable enough to handle the surgery. The surgeon must also be sure the teen’s expectations are realistic and their motives are correct. Teens with body dysmorphic disorder may not be good candidates; these patients will focus on a specific flaw or other defect (real or imagined), and convince themselves that surgery is the only way to treat it. This condition is best handled by a psychologist or other mental health care professional.

Procedures to Skip

There are a number of procedures that teenagers should avoid. Breast enhancement, in particular with saline implants, is one. This is because the body may not yet be done developing, and the general rule is that the patient must be at least 18. There are a few exceptions, such as birth defects, trauma or diseases that may require breast reconstruction. Silicone can be used for reconstruction purposes by women of all ages, but is limited to 22 and older for enhancement.

Since teens often lose baby fat with age, liposuction is not recommended. For teens that have a problem losing weight with just diet and exercise alone, however, it can be used for spot reduction purposes. It should not be used to treat obesity as a whole and is most definitely not a substitute for diet and exercise.

Procedures to Consider

Rhinoplasty can be a suitable procedure for certain candidates. Broken or deformed noses can be fixed by this procedure. Breast reductions are also popular; in Soleil Moon Frye’s case, her large breasts were causing her back and shoulder pain, as well as breathing problems. Microdermabrasion and chemical peels can help teens with severe acne and skin irregularities, and laser hair removal can help those with excessive hair.

Five Important Questions to Ask When Considering Surgery for Your Child

1. Who truly wants the surgery? The teenager must be the one who desires it most; after all, they are the ones who must live with the results. Parents, peers and significant others can offer advice, but they must not pressure the patient into making a decision.

2. Is your child emotionally and mentally mature? A good surgeon will want to be sure the patient understands the process and what will take place before, during and after surgery.

3.How well does your child handle pain and follow directions? The recovery process can be long, painful and draining. As a parent, you can only do so much; your child must be able to handle the rest on their own.

4. Does the child have a realistic outlook on the results? Make sure your child knows that their lives will not radically change after undergoing surgery.

5. Is your child physically mature? Depending on the surgery, this could play a huge role. Breast reductions can be done on patients as young as 15, while other surgeries may have to wait until the child is older.