May 8th, 2013
“Cellulite” is a common condition affecting eight out of ten women in the U.S. It is caused by shortened fibrous attachments to thinned skin and uneven fat deposits. These findings result in an uneven appearance to the skin commonly referred to by women as dimples, dents, bulges, or cellulite. The thigh and buttock regions are most commonly affected in women of any weight and fitness level. This condition can be concerning to many women and cause them to avoid shorts, skirts and swim suits during the warmer months of the year. While many temporary potions & lotions have been advocated to reduce cellulite, lasting results until now have been elusive.
CelluSmooth™, developed by the highly regarded Sciton® Corporation, is the latest generation laser technology designed to address all three components of cellulite. The Bitar Institute is the first Cosmetic Surgery Center in the Washington D.C/MD/NOVA Metropolitan region and only one of three on the entire east coast to currently offer this innovative technology. The Institute also serves as a “Center of Excellence” training center. The Sciton Joule Laser, has been consistently ranked as the leading aesthetic laser on the market, and includes proprietary “M3” technology designed to treat the fibrous bands, thin loose skin, and uneven fat deposits that cause cellulite. This treatment can be comfortably accomplished under local anesthesia in the privacy of the office with minimal downtime.
Good candidates for this procedure will have mild to moderate cellulite of the front, side or back of the thighs or buttocks and be in good health. A laser wand is used to comfortably treat the cellulite usually through one small 2-3 mm needle incision on each side. After surgery a compressive dressing and garment is worn to aid in recovery. Patients are asked to refrain from heavy exercise but can resume normal activities or work almost immediately. Mild to moderate swelling and bruising can be expected. Pain is minimal and well controlled with Tylenol or prescription pain pills. While immediate improvement may be seen, final results take three to six months to be achieved due to the body’s healing mechanisms.
If mild to moderate cellulite is a concern, CelluSmooth™ can deliver lasting contour improvement to the affected area.
The procedure is accomplished in about a third of the time as compared to other laser cellulite treatments.
Shorter treatment times results in quicker recovery, minimal scarring, and minimal downtime. Procedure details can be viewed at http://vimeo.com/63286147. For more information visit www.bitarinstitute.com/cellusmooth or call 703-206-0506 to schedule a consultation.
Robert F. Centeno M.D., M.B.A., F.A.C.S.
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
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May 1st, 2013
Botox, helped to fuel the increase; over 6 million Botox injections were performed in 2012, up 8 percent since 2011. This begs the question – if economic times are so tough, why are so many people choosing to spend their money on their appearance?
A nationwide survey by MetLife suggests that Generation Y (those born between the 1970s and the early 2000s) has a different set of values than those associated with the traditional American Dream. The data revealed that Americans seem to be increasingly less concerned with the previous generations’ ideals of success, e.g. getting married, buying a house, having a family, and building wealth. Rather, they are focused on the new “do it yourself” American Dream: valuing the achievement of personal fulfillment over financial success. Someone who has the choice between getting a nose job or putting money toward a downpayment for a house may choose the former simply because they believe it can make their life more enjoyable. The press release of the 2011 annual MetLife study stated:
“Americans no longer place importance on traditional elements of the Dream: 70 percent say you don’t have to be wealthy to achieve the Dream; 65 percent say you don’t need a college degree; 71 percent and 70 percent, respectively, say marriage and children aren’t essential; 59 percent say you don’t have to own a home. Instead, Americans say that a sense of personal fulfillment is key in assessing whether they have achieved the Dream.”
Essentially, Americans want to do what makes them feel good. When used for the right reasons, cosmetic surgery is a worthy investment that has the potential to significantly increase a person’s confidence and improve their overall quality of life. Whether it’s a breast reduction, tummy tuck, scar revision, or other cosmetic procedure, Dr. Bitar can help you achieve your aesthetic goals.
If you are interested in a cosmetic procedure around the Fairfax, Alexandria, McLean, or Reston areas, contact the Bitar Cosmetic Surgery Institute to schedule a consultation. Please feel free to call (703) 206-0506 or fill out our online request form today.
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May 1st, 2013
Over the last few decades, there has been a shift in plastic surgery trends – minimally invasive procedures are at a new height! Although the modern technology of today allows for patients to receive beautiful, natural-looking results from surgical procedures with less potential for risks and complications, there is still a large population of people who desire quick results, little to no recovery time, and want to avoid surgery.
According to 2012 statistics from The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), there has been an overall decrease in some of the most popular cosmetic surgical procedures from 2011. For instance, breast augmentation was down 7 percent and liposuction was down 1 percent.
With more than 13 million minimally invasive procedures performed in 2012, showing an overall increase of 6 percent from 2011, the ASPS reports that the top five minimally-invasive procedures were:
Botox (6.1 million procedures, up 8 percent)
Soft tissue fillers (2 million procedures, up 5 percent)
Chemical peel (1.1 million procedures, up 2 percent)
Laser hair removal (1.1 million procedures, up 4 percent)
Microdermabrasion (974,000 procedures, up 8 percent)
Here are some of the multiple factors that have contributed to the rise in demand for cosmetic enhancements without the surgery:
Baby Boomers
As the “Baby Boomer” generation ages, many of them are looking for ways to restore a youthful look to their appearance as they want to turn back the hands of time! This has contributed to the increase of minimally invasive procedures being performed. Botox® remains the leading facial injectable to date, with more than 6.1 million injections administered last year. Facial fillers, such as Restylane® and Juvederm®, have also gained popularity as non-surgical wrinkle-fighting agents.
Media
More and more, minimally-invasive cosmetic treatments are appearing on many popular television shows. For instance, The Dr. Oz Show is constantly revealing methods that can help people stay young, whether it is eating healthy, taking supplements, or consulting plastic surgeons for anti-aging solutions. The Real Housewives television series focuses on the lavish lifestyles of various women around the country, and the lengths at which they go to in order to maintain constant youth and beauty. For some of these women, while receiving facial injectable treatments, the cameras keep rolling!
Whether you are interested in plastic surgery to achieve a younger-looking and refreshing appearance, or prefer to learn about your non-surgical options, The Bitar Cosmetic Surgery Institute offers several techniques to help you return to your fountain of youth. Please feel to reach the offices of Dr. Bitar and Dr. Centeno to schedule your initial consultation. You may do so by calling (703) 206-0506.
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April 26th, 2013
This past Wednesday BCSI held another Luminous Lift Seminar at our Manassas location due to the high demand and success of our previous seminar at our Fairfax office. The fun filled evening started off with Dr. Centeno discussing his highly popular Luminous Lift in office procedure. Guest were wowed by the impressive before and after pictures of Dr. Centeno’s Luminous Lift results. He even had two videos of patient testimonials that had the Luminous Lift procedure done. The before and after video interview gave a well rounded look at all aspects of this innovative procedure. Carrie Miller from Obagi also joined us for an informative talk on Obagi’s diverse skincare line and how to achieve that healthy glow without the help of the sun. Overall, the evening was a success with great friends, delicious food, and informative presentations.
-April
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April 25th, 2013
Introducing the new ‘Hydrating Intense Moisturizer’ from the Image Vital C line. This gem of a moisturizer is loaded with hyaluronic acid, olive oil, shea butter and peptides for cellular regeneration, collagen stimulation, hydration and skin smoothness.
This moisturizer is perfect for Dry, Dehydrated, Sensitive and Rosacea skin types.
Schedule a complimentary consultation today! 703-206-0506
-Dana Cloud, Licensed Medical Esthetician
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April 12th, 2013
On Sunday the BCSI Staff gathered to celebrate Pat Bonine’s 10 years with the Institute. Pat has been a premiere and beloved provider with the Institute since 2003. The staff along with close family and friends celebrated this great mile stone at the elegant 2941 Restaurant in Falls Church. The staff enjoyed a delicious brunch in the water fall room, along with a view of the coy fish pond. It was a lovely afternoon spent with close family friends.
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April 12th, 2013
If you have, you would have noticed that several of Bitar Cosmetic Surgery Institutes non-invasive procedures were featured in their special Anti-Aging Section. The article highlights several services that BCSI has been offering for years to help patients achieve a brighter, more youthful appearance. T
he article features the use of the popular hyaluronic acid filler Beletero which is commonly used for filling in fine lines around the moth and crow’s feet.
Non-surgical Rhinoplasty’s
were noted as being one of the “quickest and easiest” ways to take years off you’re appearance; several of these are done weekly at the Institute.
Getting rid of neck-bands was also highlighted in the article, noting that they can be relaxed with Botox and this can soften wrinkles and actually lift the face. Sclerotherapy, earlobe repair, and filler-correction were also mentioned in the article.
You can take advantage of several of these treatments on our Day Of Beauty when we offer 20 % off injectable’s.
See you Soon! -April Stettner
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March 29th, 2013
Year after year Dr. Bitar has received the honor of becoming Northern Virginia’s Top Plastic Surgeon.
In 2013 Northern Virginia Magazine took their poll a bit further this year, with nominees from peers, outstanding patient reviews, hospital evaluations, and overall quality state-of-the-art healthcare.
Congratulations Dr. Bitar!!!!
We are so proud of you and all your accomplishments!!
-Katie
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March 4th, 2013
Rhinophyma or the red, bulbous nose features commonly seen in older men is an imminently treatable medical condition. This condition, which is caused by an overgrowth of the sebaceous or oily glands of the nose, is an end result of the common skin condition Rosacea. Rosacea affects approximately 14 million Americans and is characterized by diffuse redness and capillaries of the central zone of the face including the forehead, nose, eyelids, cheeks and chin. Bacteria and overactive sebaceous glands also contribute to pustule and nodule formation. Over a period of time, untreated Rosacea leads to overgrowth of the sebaceous glands primarily of the nose leading to the characteristic condition Rhinophyma.
W.C. Fields with Rhinophyma
Optimal treatment of this condition always starts with prevention. Retinoid creams as well as topical antibiotics like Metrogel are the most commonly prescribed medications. Occasionally oral antibiotics are prescribed during acute breakouts. Additional preventive measures include wearing sunscreen, topical Vitamin C, and avoiding exacerbating foods, alcohol, extreme weather conditions, and stress. The “old wives” tale that excess alcohol consumption caused Rhinophyma comes from the flushing of the overactive blood vessels of the face and nose characteristic of alcohol use. Treatment of the redness and ruddy appearance of the skin is typically treated by a series of non-ablative Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatments or several different wavelengths of lasers that target the red blood cell components in the skin.
Correction of the bulbous appearance of the nose involves a series of different resurfacing procedures. Dermabrasion, shaving and laser resurfacing are the most commonly used procedures to smooth the texture of the nose back to its normal state. These procedures are typically done under local anesthesia or IV sedation as an outpatient. Recovery occurs in stages. The nose heals in about a week, is red for several more weeks, and then returns to its normal state in a much improved form. Maintenance of the result involves the use of the topical rosacea treatments discussed and IPL treatments to manage the re-growth of capillaries. Patients and their loved ones are typically very happy with the dramatic improvement in the appearance of the nose. For more information, go to www.bitarinstitute.com or call to schedule a complimentary consultation.
Actual Bitar Institute Rhinophyma Reduction Patient:
-Robert F. Centeno M.D., M.B.A. , F.A.C.S., Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
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February 25th, 2013
On Wednesday, February 20th , 2013, Dr. Centeno and I visited the Body Elements offices in Vienna, Virginia for an informative meet and greet with the lovely founder and CEO of Body Elements; Eva Swersey. We were able to tour the facility and discuss the similar philosophy’s found at both the Bitar Cosmetic Surgery Institute and Body Elements. We both collectively agree in helping our patients reach their most optimum health and wellness goals through maintaining a active and healthy lifestyle. Dr. Centeno’s expertise in dealing with extreme weight loss patients can provide an opportunity for patients post surgery to seek nutritional, fitness, and health related information at Body Elements. Eva Swersey has been in business for over 10 years and her office specializes in non-surgical facial and body rejuvenation. We look forward to partnering with Eva and her welcoming staff in the future. The Bitar Cosmetic Surgery Institute is pleased to foster relationships with well-respected businesses and members within the community.
by April Stetner, Administrative Coordinator
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