This Spring we are running a contest to reward one of our lucky readers! Some of the best things in life are fun and easy. So is our contest. Leave a comment below that lists your favorite thing about New Jersey in the spring. Your comment will enter you to win a $50 Visa Gift Card.

To Enter: Just answer this question!

What is your favorite thing about New Jersey in the spring time (thing to do, place to visit, event)?
Post your answer by leaving a comment on this blog post.

Who is eligible to win?
Anyone over the age of 18 and living in the United States. Only one entry allowed per person, please.

When does the contest end?
May 9th at noon EST. We will post the winner here as an update to this post. We will also notify the winner via email if we have been provided with a working address. Please note that we will not use your contact information for any other purpose.

We will pick a winning comment at random and send that person a $50 Visa Gift Card!

The post Win a $50 Gift Card! appeared first on Parker Center for Plastic Surgery.

As a wife and mother, Parker Center patient Mary was nervous about her breast augmentation. While most women experience some anxiety before going under the knife, Mary was more nervous about others’ reactions than the procedure itself.

“I’m in my 50s,” Mary explained. “One of my biggest concerns was that I didn’t want people looking at me and saying, ‘What is she doing?’”

Mary was so concerned about others’ reactions that she didn’t mention her decision to many outside her immediate family. She and her husband discussed the procedure in length before she finally decided on it, but they waited until right before the surgery to tell their grown children. After the surgery, Mary’s happy that she decided to keep it private, as it remains her little secret.

“I told very few people, and no one that I didn’t tell has ever noticed,” Mary said.

Six months after the procedure, Mary is happier than ever, feeling comfortable, not only physically but also mentally. Body image was a big motivator for Mary, as several lumpectomies left her self-conscious about the shape of her breasts. One breast was shaped differently than the other, causing Mary to constantly worry about her looks.

“I always had to be careful what clothing I wore, what bathing suit I wore, and I’m a girly girl, you know?” Mary explained. “I like dressing up, so this was a great way to not have to think about it. Now, I can just pull something off the rack without having to say, ‘Can I wear this?’”

The surgery has given Mary her confidence back, transforming her into the healthy and happy mom she was before her medical issues. Now that the surgery is over, she hopes that other women don’t worry about others’ reactions the way she did.

“It was a great decision, and I would encourage someone else to do it. The most important thing is that you do it for yourself and not someone else,” she said.

The “do it for yourself” focus, was something that drew Mary to Dr. Parker. She initially went to a plastic surgeon that a friend recommended and was turned off by the “Hollywood” vibe. Mary was looking for a natural-looking enhancement, and the other patients didn’t seem to share that goal. She was worried that the surgeon wouldn’t be able to give her the subtle makeover she desired and turned to Dr. Parker for assistance.

“I got the impression that Dr. Parker did a lot of surgery for women who, like myself, want to look natural and feel better about themselves, not for public reaction,” Mary explained.

Once she began meeting with Dr. Parker, her initial thoughts were only confirmed. She loved how honest Dr. Parker and the staff were with her and found that they were “focused on the right reasons.” Dr. Parker was compassionate to her needs and patiently answered her questions, making Mary feel extremely comfortable throughout the process. She especially appreciated honesty when it came to sizing. The staff members that helped Mary choose the right size were open and truthful, and she came away trusting them entirely and feeling confident in the decisions they helped her make.

The surgery went smoothly and the whole process moved along exactly as the staff said it would. Now, Mary can wear whatever she likes without having to worry, but no benefit quite compares to her self-esteem boost.

“I feel comfortable and I feel so good about myself. It’s just been a really good experience,” Mary said. “Not for one moment have I ever regretted my decision.”

To learn more about a breast augmentation or any other procedure, contact our staff at (201) 967-1212 to schedule your consultation.

The post Breast Augmentation at Parker Center Restores A Lumpectomy Patient’s Confidence appeared first on Parker Center for Plastic Surgery.

Gynecomastia is the condition in which a man has oversized breasts, and it can either affect one breast or both. Gynecomastia may be more common than you think with a reported 35-40% of men experiencing symptoms. This condition has been linked to a number of possible causes, though it’s typically a combination of factors that contribute to the issue.

Gynecomastia may present itself temporarily or permanently depending on the individual situation, and there is no known cause of the symptoms in majority of patients. One possible cause results from a hormonal imbalance in which unnaturally high levels of estrogen are present in comparison to testosterone. This can happen during puberty, and many times the hormones eventually regulate themselves and symptoms disappear.

Things that contribute to an elevated estrogen level can include various medications, treatments, and even other medical conditions. Medications that can lead to chemical imbalance include anti-androgens, such as those used to treat prostate cancer, certain antidepressants, ulcer medications, and chemotherapy drugs. The use of illegal drugs and alcohol can also increase the likelihood of developing larger male breasts.

Health conditions that can cause gynecomastia include those that influence testosterone levels, hyperthyroidism, kidney failure, the presence of tumors, and cirrhosis. General aging also plays a role, and approximately 1 in 4 men between the ages of 50 and 80 have oversized breasts.

Symptoms of this condition include swollen breast gland tissues. In some cases, this is isolated to the nipple area, while in other cases the entire breast is enlarged. The breasts may also be sensitive or may give a discharge. If the breasts are sensitive or have a discharge, it’s important to see a doctor to ensure there isn’t another medical problem causing these changes.

Many men choose plastic surgery as a treatment option in order to improve their overall look and self confidence when it comes to gynecomastia. It’s important to consult with a doctor to determine the best method of treatment. Dr. Parker and the Parker Center staff are experienced in male breast reduction surgeries. Contact our office today for more information.

The post A Look at the Causes and Symptoms of Gynecomastia appeared first on Parker Center for Plastic Surgery.

Legs just don’t seem to get enough attention in the cooler winter months. It might have something to do with the fact that they’re so frequently covered up with pants or thick stockings. Whatever the reason, why not make a promise to spend a little “me time” on your legs this winter? Here are some tips to help you kick things off and get your legs in beautiful condition.

Do: Exercise

Just like most other parts of the body, your legs depend on getting regular exercise in order to look their best. The good news is that even simple exercises, such as daily walking, can help keep legs slim and sleek. If you’re looking for more dramatic results, try leg focused exercises such as squats, lunges and calf raises.

Don’t: Shave On Cold Skin

The steam from the shower will help make shaving easier, so hold off until the end before grabbing your razor.

Don’t: Trust Cheap Razors

Four-blade razors work the best. When combined with a quality shaving gel or cream, they’re the least likely to cause razor burn or other bumps keeping your legs’ appearance in top shape. do

Do: Exfoliate and Moisturize

A natural exfoliant, such as a sugar-based scrub, is a great way to get rid of dead skin cells and reveal a glowing, fresh layer of skin. Use a generous amount of the exfoliant and apply it in a small circular motion. You should rub firmly to make sure you get the best results. Be sure to follow up with a moisturizer, such as one that has Shea butter. You can also get a firming lotion to use on those special occasions when you want to put a temporary stop to loose skin.

These tips are easy things that can be worked into your daily routine seamlessly. By the time spring rolls around, you’ll be ready to show off your beautiful legs!

The post Do’s and Don’ts for Beautiful Legs appeared first on Parker Center for Plastic Surgery.

Gynecomastia, or oversized male breasts, is not at all uncommon in young men. The condition is attributed to an imbalance of hormones, meaning that it can sometimes be a short-lived problem. In these cases, males experience an unnatural estrogen-testosterone balance due to puberty. Symptoms may disappear in as little as a few weeks or could last for a few years.

There is a common misconception that gynecomastia symptoms can be erased with weight loss. Even those teens who modify their diet and exercise to lose weight may be left with excess breast tissue afterwards. This problem cannot be addressed by exercise and requires plastic surgery.

Teenagers who struggle with gynecomastia should see a doctor to rule out any health concerns related to the issue. If the patient has a discharge from one or both nipples, or has heightened breast sensitivity, it is important to schedule a medical check-up.

Though the gynecomastia procedure is most common in older patients, there are circumstances in which it is considered for teens. These young men and their parents should meet with a plastic surgeon to see if the procedure is the right avenue for their situation. Many men, old and young alike, report a boost in self confidence and overall improvement in quality of life following a gynecomastia procedure.

Would you like to learn more about gynecomastia symptoms or procedure? Visit the Parker Center for Plastic Surgery online or call today for a consultation.

The post Facts About Gynecomastia in Adolescents appeared first on Parker Center for Plastic Surgery.

Below are some ways to ensure a smooth recovery:

• Cut out nicotine use. Smokers are encouraged to quit their nicotine habits before surgery if at all possible. Although this is not always a requirement, plastic surgery patients generally heal quicker and more easily if they do not have nicotine present in their system following surgery.

• Prepare yourself for some downtime. Many men undergo strenuous activities in their personal and professional daily routine. The period of rest you will require depends on the type of surgery you are having done and other details related to your individual situation. At the Parker Center for Plastic Surgery in Paramus, NJ, all patients undergoing cosmetic surgery attend a one on one Preoperative Education session with the Center’s nurse coordinator. During this one hour meeting, the patient will be instructed on what to do in preparation for surgery and what specifically to expect afterwards. This time spent on patient education has played an important role in helping provide a low stress, more relaxed and quicker recovery.

• Create an exercise plan. Following their surgery, patients will be guided by Dr. Parker and his staff regarding the progressive resumption of physical activities, including gym activities, classes, personal training, group sports, and their other usual exercises. Men who are physically active may be eager to jump back into their routine immediately, but it’s important to follow the doctor’s instructions and respect the recovery needs of your body in order to optimize your recovery. At the Preoperative Education session, discuss your regular workout routine. That will help Dr. Parker and his staff to develop a plan that will allow you to ease back into that routine smoothly following the procedure.

The post Plastic Surgery for Men – How to Ensure a Smooth Recovery appeared first on Parker Center for Plastic Surgery.

Researchers attribute the increase in melanoma skin cancer to a number of factors, with excessive unprotected sun exposure being a primary culprit. While most parents today thoroughly cover their young children with sunblock, older children and teens are given freedom to take care of themselves and may frequently skip this precaution. Cases in young females may be growing exponentially because of the trend of frequent tanning, both with indoor tanning beds and outdoors under the sun’s harmful rays. Each tan or burn a person experiences in their lifetime linearly increases their chances of developing skin cancer.

Melanoma is generally regarded as the most worrisome type of skin cancer. It is often presents as an irregular, dark mole which can change in size and color over time. If left untreated, it will likely grow and invade more deeply into the skin. As the melanoma grows and invades more deeply, the problem becomes more difficult to treat; early diagnosis and treatment is critical to good outcomes. Anyone with a suspicious mole on their body should see a dermatologist for an evaluation; this may include biopsy of the mole to clarify what type of mole it is. If a melanoma or other skin cancer is diagnosed, the dermatologist may recommend plastic surgery in an attempt to minimize scarring and/ or disfigurement.

Skin cancer is most common in the areas of the body that are naturally exposed to the most sun. Treatment typically involves the removal of the cancer with a margin on normal skin around it. Surgeons such as Dr. Parker utilize plastic surgery to optimize wound healing. Contact the Parker Center for Plastic Surgery for more information on skin treatments.

The post Alarming Statistics Show Skin Cancer Rates Growing in Young People appeared first on Parker Center for Plastic Surgery.

Several years ago, Olivia was referred to Dr. Paul M. Parker of the Parker Center by her Mohs’ surgeon. Mohs’ micrographic surgery is a specialized dermatological procedure where the surgeon removes cancerous tissue and immediately evaluates the surrounding cells to be sure they have excised all the cancer cells. The surgeon continues to remove tissue and test this tissue until the area is clear. This procedure leaves patients with a defect in the skin that cannot be accurately estimated prior to surgery. It typically requires a plastic surgeon’s reconstruction skills to correct.

Olivia has undergone four Mohs’ procedures, with the most recent one completed in January. After her Mohs’ procedure Olivia came to Dr. Parker with a nickel-sized defect on the tip of her nose. Because of the size of the defect and the prominent placement, Olivia was very apprehensive about the results of her reconstructive surgery.

“I was so worried about the corrective surgery because it was right on my nose. I was really afraid of how I was going to look. Luckily, I had this type of surgery with Dr. Parker before, and I trusted him. I knew it would all be okay,” said Olivia.

Dr. Parker transferred a finger sized piece of skin and underlying tissue from the patient’s forehead as a “flap” to replace the tissue which was removed during the Mohs procedure. The flap was sutured to the nasal defect and the forehead donor site closed with sutures as well. With the flap attached in this manner, it allowed collateral circulation to grow from the surrounding nasal skin into the flaps over the next three weeks. Olivia was requested to be extremely careful during this time: no exertion, no lifting and because the surgery was on her nose, she couldn’t wear her glasses to read. Three weeks after the original procedure, Dr. Parker returned the patient to the operating room for a relatively brief surgery whereby the attachment of the flap between her nose and forehead were severed. Now both the forehead and nose looked normal. Once this surgery and recovery were complete, Olivia could not have been more pleased with the results.

“It looks fabulous. No one would ever know that I had a nickel-sized hole in my nose. The slight scar on my forehead from the flap is covered with my bangs, so no one really sees that either. It’s unbelievable how good it looks! Dr. Parker did an absolutely wonderful job,” Olivia exclaimed.

While Olivia didn’t tell her friends or family she was having the procedure, her other doctors and their medical staffs knew. Both her family doctor and her orthopedic surgeon were very impressed with Dr. Parker’s reconstruction skills. Her pharmacist told her she has seen other Mohs’ patients from other surgeons, and Olivia’s results were simply amazing.

“I have known Dr. Parker for a long time, and I really trust him. He is the best at what he does, no doubt about it. I want other people to read my story so they won’t be as fearful as I was. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions exactly. I think that’s why I healed so well,” Olivia stated.

At the Parker Center for Plastic Surgery, patients undergoing coordinated reconstruction surgery following their Mohs’ surgery will see Dr. Parker immediately afterwards for an evaluation. Dr. Parker finalizes the surgical plan during the visit, and reconstruction surgery is planned for later the same day or the following day.

Dr. Parker is a board certified plastic surgeon with over 20 years’ experience. His dedication to patient care, education and his success in creating the most natural looking results have given him a tremendous reputation as a plastic surgeon.

To learn more about reconstructive surgery or any other cosmetic procedure, visit the website at dev.parkercenter.net or call our office to arrange a consultation at (201) 967-1212.

The post Patient Olivia Undergoes Successful Reconstructive Surgery After Mohs’ Skin Cancer Removal appeared first on Parker Center for Plastic Surgery.

A steep rise in bariatric surgeries is one reason arm lifts have become more popular; these procedures often cause tremendous weight loss but typically leave large amounts of excess skin.  Another reason for the increase in arm lifts may be due to pop culture. Many of today’s celebrities are famous for their toned physiques, particularly their upper arms.

Recent advancements in technology, such as improved liposuction, arm lift techniques and new sutures, allow arm lift patients to see even better results than have been obtained previously.  Patients now see an immediate, improved contour with less downtime and reduced scarring.

“For patients that have fatty deposits in the upper arm, we’re using improved liposuction techniques by combining smaller cannulas, sometimes assisted with lasers and ultrasound.  Another important technological improvement is barbed sutures.  These sutures allow better wound closure, improving the healing process, and reduce scarring,” said Dr. Paul M. Parker

In performing arm lifts at the Parker Center for Plastic Surgery, Dr. Parker will use either liposuction alone or in combination with surgical removal of the excess skin on the upper arms. The extent of the procedure and scars will depend on a patient’s skin tone or laxity and the amount of fat and excess skin present.

In those patients whose primary problem is excess arm fat, but they have good skin tone, liposuction with a small, inconspicuous incision near the armpit and another near the elbow is all that is required. In patients with excess fat and moderate skin tone, the same liposuction procedure can be performed in addition to modest skin removal through an incision placed high in the armpit; we call this a “modified brachioplasty”. In patients who have poor skin tone or a lot of excess skin, more aggressive skin removal will be necessary. In these patients, a significant amount of skin can be removed through an incision placed on the inside of the upper arm to minimize its visibility; we call this a “traditional brachioplasty”. Scarring from this procedure is much less noticeable than previously due to improved sutures and techniques.

Dr. Parker has over 20 years’ experience and is a board certified plastic surgeon. Arm lifts at the Parker Center are performed in our onsite fully certified, state of the art ambulatory surgical facility as an outpatient. Patients are made comfortable by one of Dr. Parker’s board certified anesthesiologists with intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. These procedures range in time from one hour for liposuction to approximately two and one half hours for a traditional brachioplasty. Prospective patients may view before and after photos on our website, parkercenter.net. Call (201) 967-1212 today for more information or to arrange a consultation.

The post New Technologies Improve Arm Lifts appeared first on Parker Center for Plastic Surgery.

Think again.

The seemingly impossible is possible with the help of the Parker Center for Plastic Surgery. As an experienced plastic surgeon, Dr. Paul M. Parker has helped numerous mothers achieve the results they desire with a “mommy makeover.” The term “mommy makeover” encompasses one or more procedures to rejuvenate the breasts, abdomen and torso. This may include a breast augmentation and/ or breast lift, liposuction of the abdomen, hips and thighs, and/ or a tummy tuck.

More and more women are discovering that they may regain a more youthful figure by improving the shape and size of their breasts as well as contouring their abdomen, hips and thighs. In other words, the combination of procedures called a ”mommy makeover” is designed to reverse the signs of your body’s transformation following pregnancy. Patients not only look better after these procedures, but feel better about themselves as well. Having a baby doesn’t mean you have to lose your sex appeal or healthy-looking physique. Dr. Parker and his team at the Parker Center can help you reach your aesthetic goals.

For instance, breast augmentation procedures are one of the most frequent surgeries Dr. Parker performs. In fact, it’s one of the most popular cosmetic surgical procedures in the nation. Roughly 300,000 such surgeries were performed last year, many as part of a mommy makeover. Pregnancy and subsequent breastfeeding can alter the shape and size of your breasts. During a with Dr. Parker, he will discuss options with you to improve the appearance of your breasts with breast augmentation and/ or a breast lift procedure.

Mommy makeover procedures typically also include rejuvenating the abdomen after it has been affected by childbirth. The abdomen is usually the one to experience a change first. During your consultation with Dr. Parker, he will discuss options with you which usually include liposuction or a tummy tuck, depending on your individual anatomy and your desires. Liposuction may be performed if you have excess subcutaneous tissue beneath the skin, good skin elasticity and have not overly stretched your rectus abdominus muscles, or “abs.” On the other hand, if you have lost your skin elasticity and/ or stretched your abs, a tummy tuck will probably be needed to rejuvenate them. Also known as an abdominoplasty, this procedure will remove excess skin, tighten loose abs, and flatten your abdomen. This will shape and contour your body to deliver results not achievable on your own.

Finally, the Parker Center’s mommy makeover can include liposuction to finish your body’s incredible transformation back to its pre-pregnancy form. Liposuction targets various fatty areas of your body including the thighs, buttocks, neck, back of the arms, and elsewhere. In essence, we remove the fat that has built up during the course of a pregnancy and cannot be lost on your own. Liposuction allows us to contour and shape these areas to recreate a healthier, more beautiful you.

A mommy makeover helps you reclaim the body you once had or deliver the body you have always wanted. While many women get a mommy makeover shortly after pregnancy, many also get the procedure done years later.

If you are bothered by your post pregnancy body and wish to see if a mommy makeover is for you, schedule a consultation today to review your options and get your questions answered. Explore our mommy makeover before and after photos on our website at dev.parkercenter.net to envision your body’s potential. The body you want is not impossible. It’s up to you to take the first step. Call the Parker Center for Plastic Surgery for a consultation at (201) 967-1212.

The post Mommy Makeovers Soar in Popularity after Delivering Improved Post-Pregnancy Body appeared first on Parker Center for Plastic Surgery.