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Women of Substance

By Dr. Alissa Shulman • Sovereign Plastic Surgery • July 2024

You need to know that I have never been “skinny”—I wouldn’t know what that is like!  I have fought weight gain since childhood. I have gained and lost the same 50 pounds for the last 30 years. I share this with you and my patients to alleviate the anticipation of being judged.

We all want to be “healthy and happy”, but let’s be honest, we want to look better too!  My wish for my patients is to help them become the best version of themselves. Yes, I am a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon, achieved through general and plastic surgery training and private practice going on 26 years.  However, my background also includes a degree in Fine Arts and “Plus Size Modeling.”  My interpretation of beauty is quite broad—Barbie is not my ideal.

So, what does an overweight patient need to know and what can they expect?  An overweight patient has an increased chance of complications across the board. The types of complications are fairly predictable, and our first goal is to reduce the chance of complications starting before surgery.

The first complication is infection. Fungus lurks in skin folds, etc. and this can lead to bacterial infections post-operatively. Once we have determined that a patient is a candidate for surgery, I start them on a course of anti-fungal cream, usually over the counter.                                                                    

A second complication could be Delayed Wound Healing—too much trauma or too much tissue for the available blood supply. I am always in close contact with my patients and if this cannot be avoided, it can be handled.

The third complication is Aesthetic Dissatisfaction. The patient just does not like the results! Thankfully, this is not the norm.  This happens when a patient has unrealistic expectations. To avoid this, we meet multiple times and discuss the patient’s expectations and review before and after photos of similarly built patients to be sure the projected results are acceptable.

Once a patient is comfortable with the “what ifs”, we can discuss the many procedures that can improve the plus size figure.

Let’s Start with Breasts.

If they are too large, then a reduction/lift is going to help.  If they are too droopy, then just a lift will do.

If the breasts are too small, as is often the case with the pear-shaped body, then fat grafting is a great option.  Fat grafting is my favorite “tool in the shed.”  I can take fat from your hips/flank (liposuction), filter it to remove “non-fat” cells, and carefully inject into your breasts. It is all your own tissue, leaves a better proportioned figure, and does not need to be replaced.

On to the Body.

It’s all about improving the general shape.  Loose skin and excess fat do not

look good in or out of Floridian clothing. We want to create a smoother silhouette. If the skin is relatively tight and elastic, then liposuction alone can help. If excess skin is the primary problem, then abdominoplasty (tummy-tuck) is needed. In the fuller figure, a combination of both is usually recommended.  

Hips and thighs usually need liposuction.  However, since the inner thigh skin is thin, I am usually conservative in that area.  Aggressiveness in this area can create more skin folds than can be tolerated for wearing shorts or swimwear.

Surgery cannot create a size “4” from a size “18”. The ultimate goal is to create a smoother silhouette and a patient who carries herself proudly.

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Solutions for Living in a Toxic World

By Dr. Jill Morris • World Class Dentistry

It is impossible to prevent exposure to toxins while living on our beautiful planet. The good news is that there are daily routines that we can do to release toxins, so they don’t poison the body and mind.

Since Covid, I have seen an uptick in tooth decay in my patients. Teeth and gum health is critical for a healthy body. The immune system, diet, and mineral balance of the body determines the rate of decay. If patients reduce carbohydrates, they have very little plaque formation. Plaque is the metabolic by-product formed from the bacteria in the mouth when exposed to carbohydrates. It is plaque that creates gum disease and decay. 

If we don’t feed the bacteria with carbohydrates, we won’t have the acid and inflammation needed for this disease processes. Also, the body needs minerals to circulate through the teeth to keep the teeth hardened, so I recommend hair testing which can show mineral imbalances in the body. UpgradedFormulas.com provides those tests with online consultations. They have quality mineral supplements. I also recommend a Borax and Magnesium combination to keep teeth hard. My website at doctorjillmorris.com, shows a video about this amazing salt and mineral combination that demonstrates how to make it at home.

When I need to remove a silver filling, I protect my patients to any exposure to the aerosols I create with my drill. Silver fillings are 50% mercury, which is a neurotoxin. The metal particles in the aerosol cause static interference between communicating cells. The holistic dental organization, IAOMT.org website has good information. To get tested for mercury levels in the body, I’ve found the best source is quicksilverscientific.com.  They have a detox regimen as well.

Our habit of thought causes disease. Thoughts radiate frequencies through our body and out into our energy auric field, just like a radio wave. Lower vibrating thoughts such as fear, anxiety and anger pollute the field and attract the same experiences in return. There is an excellent YouTube video, Bioenergy Demonstration by Dr. Valerie Hunt from Stanford, showing the energy field of people in different emotional states and activities. Tai Chi Gung teaches that all dis-ease first starts in the energy field. As the emotional load increases, the lower frequencies move into the body and create disease. I teach an organic way to replace those negative emotional states with love, joy, and peace. The field can be cleansed by various methods taught by Tai Chi Gung. A peaceful condition in the field and body results in greater health. 

Dr. Jill Morris has been practicing and teaching neuromuscular and holistic dentistry for 38 years. She also has degrees in Naturopathic Medicine and Clinical Hypnotherapy. She is a certified Tai Chi Gung instructor with the Lamasery in Darchen, Tibet founded by Lao Tzu 3300 years ago. Dr. Morris will be lecturing at Mind Body Medicine in Sarasota on July 25^th at 6:00pm. 

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Sun Safety 101:
Sunscreens, Tips, and Treatments

By Dr. Emily Arsenault • Glow Derm Spa

The sun’s rays can be both a blessing and a curse. While they provide essential vitamin D that supports bone health and boosts our mood, they also pose significant risks to our skin. Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light can lead to sunburn, premature aging, and even skin cancer. This is especially important for those of us in Florida, where sunny days are a year-round reality. Understanding how UV light affects the skin is crucial for maintaining a healthy, youthful complexion in such a sun-rich environment.

Sunscreen plays a vital role in protecting our skin from harmful UV radiation. However, many people are unsure about which sunscreen to choose, how to use it effectively, and what SPF level is best for their skin type. This comprehensive guide aims to demystify UV light and its effects, explain the science behind sunscreens, and provide practical tips on selecting and applying the right products.

Understanding UV Light

UVA, UVB, and UVC are the three types of UV light. UVA has the longest wavelength and penetrates deep into the skin, causing long-term damage like wrinkles and some skin cancers. UVB affects the skin’s surface, leading to sunburn and skin cancer. UVC is the most dangerous but is absorbed by the Earth’s ozone layer and doesn’t reach the ground.

Choosing the right sunscreen can feel overwhelming given the variety of options available. However, considering a few key factors can help you make an informed decision. Consider the questions below.

What is the difference between chemical and physical sunscreens?

Chemical sunscreens contain compounds that absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat, which is then released from the skin. Physical sunscreens, also known as mineral sunscreens, contain active mineral ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide that sit on top of the skin and physically block or reflect UV rays.

How should I apply sunscreen for maximum effectiveness?

Apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before going outside. Use about one ounce (a shot glass full) to cover your entire body and a nickel-sized amount for your face. Reapply every two hours, or immediately after swimming, sweating, or towel drying.

Do I need to wear sunscreen on cloudy days?

Yes, UV rays can penetrate clouds, so it’s essential to wear sunscreen even on overcast days. Up to 80% of UV rays can pass through clouds.

Can I use makeup with SPF instead of sunscreen?

While makeup with SPF provides some protection, it is usually not enough on its own. Always apply a dedicated sunscreen under your makeup for optimal protection.

How can I choose the right sunscreen for my skin type?

For sensitive skin, opt for physical sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. For oily or acne-prone skin, look for non-comedogenic formulas. Consider water-resistant sunscreens if you will be swimming or sweating.

Is higher SPF always better?

Higher SPF offers more protection, but no sunscreen can block 100% of UV rays. SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays, and SPF 50 blocks 98%. The key is proper application and reapplication.

In addition to sunscreen, wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses. Seek shade, especially during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), and use UV monitoring apps to stay informed about UV levels.

To treat sunburn or UV damage at home, apply aloe vera or hydrocortisone cream to reduce inflammation and soothe the skin. Use moisturizers with hyaluronic acid to rehydrate, and antioxidant serums with vitamins C and E to repair damage. For severe sunburn, consult a healthcare professional.