Dr. Howard was invited along with a select small group of board certified plastic surgeons across the country to attend an annual training and educational seminar in Dallas, Texas.  The Mentor Masters Series showcased new innovations and technology in aesthetic medicine, specifically toward breast augmentation and liposuction body contouring.  Dr. Howard participated in the two-day event learning about new frontiers in aesthetic surgery. Remaining on the cutting edge of plastic surgery had always been one of the main tenants of Dr. Howard’s practice credo and he relishes the opportunity to explore new innovations in the field of plastic surgery.

Mentor Corporation is one of two worldwide dominant breast implant manufacturers along with Allergan, Inc.  Mentor’s production plant is in the US and Dr. Howard along with the invited physicians was able to get a personal tour of the manufacturing facility.  Seeing the actual process and being able to ask detailed questions about the production process added new depth to his understanding of the devices which make up a large part of his practice.  And, as a fun side opportunity, Dr. Howard was able to make his own personalized breast implant with his business card inside!

 Dr. Howard heard presentations on collected breast augmentation data spanning 15 years of experience from one institution.  This data critically evaluated the safety and risks of the procedure of implantation.  The data was consistent with current knowledge that the procedure is safe, and in fact the revision rate for complications stemming from the implant itself is much lower than previously thought.  Also discussed was cutting edge information on the cause and prevention of capsular contracture.  Capsular contracture is the number one reason that breast augmentation patients require additional surgeries related to the breast implants.

 Ensuring that our Atlanta plastic and cosmetic surgery practice offers the latest and safest methods available to our patients is paramount to our delivery of care.  Educational opportunities such as this are a huge component in that process.  Thanks Mentor!

To learn more about breast augmentation, breast lift, or breast reduction, contact Dr. Brian Howard’s office today.

Fraxel laser has become a workhorse for treating sun damaged and aging skin in our practice. With over two years of experience using the Fraxel Re:Store laser, we have noticed an unexpected but obvious improvement in rosacea in our treated patients. We have seen no complications from the laser application in any of our patients and continue to be excited over the results using the laser.

Kerry has a bag of holiday specials coming up for the 2009 Holiday Season! Call our office to find out what Specials will be offered!

October has traditionally been designated Breast Cancer Awareness Month since 1985. As breast cancer has taken a position in the media spotlight, it is crucial that we familiarize ourselves with how to prevent and detect early signs of possible breast cancer. Please contact your primary care physician to answer any questions you may have about when and what type of breast cancer screening may be appropriate for you or your loved ones.

Dr. Howard will give an informational and educational seminar to physicians and their staff, on SmartLipo and laser lipolysis, on November 14, 2009 in Atlanta, Georgia. He will be discussing the history and development of laser lipolysis, current applications of the procedure, and his own personal approach to SmartLipo. Dr. Howard is on the Speaker’s Panel for Cynosure, the parent company of SmartLipo. He is a regional trainer for SmartLipo and continues to aid in the development and application of laser lipolysis.

Dr. Howard successfully attempted and summitted Mount Kilimanjaro recently. This is the fifth mountain summit for Dr. Howard, and perhaps more await on the horizon. Dr. Howard states his team experienced beautiful weather and conditions. The support team were likewise magnificent and helped make a fantastic climb and travel experience. Mount Kilimanjaro is in Tanzania, Africa. It is the tallest free standing mountain in the world, standing at 19,340 feet. Way to go Dr. Howard!!

Current data shows that a huge number of people have turned to over the counter herbs and supplements in an attempt to treat various medical conditions or even to stave off aging. While some of these may indeed be viable or even good options, very few of these have been scientifically studied to see the true value of the supplement or perhaps more importantly to discover the potential risks. A large number of these commonly used supplements are well known to cause changes in the human body which can be hazardous in surgery patients. Ranging from anesthetic cross-reactions to creating dangerous bleeding risks, these supplements are best stopped several weeks before surgery and not restarted without knowledge and approval of your surgeon. Most importantly, you should inform your surgeon of all herbs, supplements, and prescribed medications that you take. Be Safe!!!

Dr. Howard has recently trialed a new nonsurgical skin tightening device known as Pelleve. Pelleve delivers radiofrequency energy to the skin which heats up the dermis and leads to collagen remodelling and skin tightening. No anesthesia, no downtime, and no incisions! Dr. Howard and his staff continue to explore and evaluate new cosmetic surgery technology as a cutting edge plastic surgery practice, and are known for being leaders in cosmetic surgery technology.

The FDA has approved the use of Dysport for treatment of glabellar wrinkles on the face. Now patients have options other than Botox to help soften the dynamic signs of facial aging. Plastic surgeons are hopeful that competition will not only bring down the cost of injections for our patients, but also stimulate more research and development for future effective treatments. We are currently trialing Dysport at our Roswell office.

The sun causes about 90% of the damage to our skin. This damage results in unnecessary and premature aging of the skin with sagging, wrinkles and uneven pigmentation. Ideally, we should be wearing sunscreen 365 days a year. Doing so will provided a lifetime of skin protection not only be slowing down the signs of aging, but against developing skin cancers. Be smart, wear your sunscreen like you would your makeup or your hair gel and apply daily!