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Working out in the wrong sports bra can be not only uncomfortable but also damaging to a womans health. According to recent LA Times news article 8 out of 10 women are likely to be wearing the wrong size sports bra according to Heather Cvitkovic, a product manager at Moving Comfort, the womens fitness clothing company that sells more sports bras than any other brand. It is noted that the style of raw that you wear should fit the type of activity that you are doing. A compression bra is one that presses against the breast holding them against the chest wall to restrict movement. This is best for women with small breast who are doing low-impact activities such as swimming. A bra that is a combination of compression with encapsulation – with semi-molded cups – is a better fit for women who have larger breast and need more support than what can be obtained from compression alone. An encapsulation bra – which is a style that lifts and separates – is much better suited for larger breasted women who are doing medium and high-impact activities including running or frequent jumping. Regardless of which style you choose the bottom band which goes around the chest wall should fit much more snugly than a lingerie bra because thats what creates the support. A basic guideline is being able to take a deep breath without feeling uncomfortable but the band should feel tight. The bottom band should lie flat and straight across the back. The right brought is also essential in their early stages following breast augmentation. Patients who have had a breast lift combined with breast augmentation should also pay close attention to Dr. Kims recommendations for the type of bra to be worn following surgery. It is important for patients to refrain from purchasing and/or wearing any bra without a specific recommendation and approval from Dr. Kim. Patient should not wear their bra until Dr. Kim has given the okay to do so. It is important that the breast implants are permitted to settle into the pocket following surgery. Dr. Kim will discuss postoperative instructions with each patient following their breast augmentation surgery and will instruct patients when to begin wearing a bra and which bras are acceptable. Patients who are considering breast augmentation are encouraged to contact Dr. Kims office and schedule a consultation.

Mammograms still remain the most effective way to detect breast cancer. However, having dense breast tissue can make reading a mammogram more challenging. The reason is tumors intends tissue are harder to detect. According to a recent ABC news story doctors are creating new ways to help women and other doctors detect breast cancer earlier. Approximate 10% of American women have will be considered dense breast tissue. A recent study by the National Cancer Institute indicated that women with dense breast tissue were more likely to die than patients who did not have breast tissue that was as dense. Dense breast tissue has been linked with a for to sixfold increase in a womans risk of developing breast cancer, partially due to the fact that tumors within the dense breast tissue are harder to spot using a mammogram.Mammography is the most effective tool that we have for detecting early breast cancer, said Dr. Jennifer Harvey, radiology professor and director of breast imaging at the University of Virginia. The way that we measure breast density is not very good. Harvey is developing a risk model study that is being funded by a $5.5 million government grant. It will continue to be developed throughout the next three years. If successful the model could be available to be used widely in the US within six years. Dr. Kim advises women who have had breast augmentation, breast lift, or breast reduction to follow the American Cancer Societys recommendation for early detection of breast cancer. This includes monthly breast self exam as well as a yearly mammogram beginning at age 40. It is important for patients to realize that breast surgery does not change the recommendation for maintaining breast health. Patients who are considering breast augmentation are encouraged to contact Dr. Kim and schedule a consultation.

How much weight is too much weight? This question continues to be a controversial one. According to recent online Los Angeles Times article the common medical overview is that caring extra pounds will increase the risk for diseases including heart disease and diabetes thus increasing the risk of premature death. The question becomes does the reality of premature death apply to those were just considered overweight? A new in-depth look at close to 3 million people suggests that being overweight may not have the same implications as being obese. The results were published online in the Journal of American Association that collected data from 97 studies that included adult men and women in the US, Canada, Europe, Australia, China, Taiwan, Japan, Brazil, India and Mexico. A total of 270,000 people had died of various causes during the studies. When the scientist reviewed the numbers they discovered as they had expected that those people who were significantly obese with a BMI of 35 or more live a shorter life than those who were of a normal weight which was defined as a BMI of 18.5 to 24.9. However, side is also discovered that people who were considered to be overweight with a BMI of 25 to 29.9 died at slightly lower rates – not higher – than those who were considered to be normal weight. They also discovered that those who were consider mildly obese with a BMI of 3234.9 died in no greater numbers than those who were of normal weight. Lead author found no apparent reason for the survival edge of those who were considered to be overweight. There were no recommendations made for medical doctors in light of the study. The goal is to encourage patients to commit to following good health practices regardless of their weight. Dr. Kim warns patients that a few extra pounds can quickly turn to obesity if ignored. This is particularly the case with women who have gone through a pregnancy. It is not uncommon for women to add extra pounds after a pregnancy. If this weight is not lost and the woman has another child it is likely that the pounds will remain as she adds more pounds with the next pregnancy. Women who are postpartum and unhappy with the contour of their body and slightly increased weight gain consult with Dr. Kim when considering what is currently known as the “mommy makeover”. This procedure combines breast augmentation with abdominoplasty and or liposuction. It provides a solution for deflated breast which have lost volume, as well as loose and lax skin on the abdomen that is unsightly and detrimental to a womans figure. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis and in most cases patients are able to return to normal activities within 10 to 14 days. Patients were considering the “mommy makeover”are encouraged to contact Dr. Kim and schedule a consultation.

The appeal of cosmetic surgery is undisputedly a global appeal. According to recent LA Times article Afghans are becoming more comfortable with the concept of cosmetic surgery as they are increasingly exposed to beauty trends from India and Iran through movies, travel and the countries proliferating media outlets. Afghan women tend to show up with pictures of their favorite Bollywood celebrities and Turkish telenovela stars. This is a fairly new trend since just over 10 years ago women were for the most part combined to their homes and were forbidden to work. In the war-ravaged country there were not many options even if they could find a job. Secluded from the rest of the world under the Taliban rule cosmetic surgery was generally unheard of. It remains a controversial subject for many Afghan families, specifically women, mostly related to questions about modesty and acceptance of Gods will. However, as women have come back to the workforce in large cities like Kabul, changing their looks as become easier as they have earned their own money. Most procedures are performed under local anesthesia and patients are sent home the same day. While some doctors have improve their skills while treating victims of the war the concern is that others may not have had the exposure to extensive training in plastic surgery and this could cause danger for potential cosmetic surgery patients. The most popular cosmetic surgery procedures are rhinoplasty and blepharoplasty in Afghanistan. While the process that Afghan women are going through seems primitive when compared to the cosmetic surgery process American patients go through one similarity is that finding the right plastic surgeon can be a daunting challenge. While admittedly there are many more options in the United States for women who are considering plastic surgery then there are for women in Afghanistan the reality is finding the right plastic surgeon for cosmetic procedures is still largely a decision left up to the patient. Dr. Kim explains to new patients that his board certification under the American Society of Plastic Surgeons is one that is earned by a small percentage of plastic surgeons who have committed to additional training specifically tailored to plastic surgery. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons is the only certifying plastic surgery board recognized by the American Medical Association. It can be confusing for patients when they see the words when describing a plastic surgeon. It is important to ask by which board is the medical doctor certified? With the popularity of cosmetic plastic surgery in the US many have come to believe that cosmetic plastic surgery is a routine task that can be carried out by virtually any medical doctor. In a capitalistic society like the US cosmetic plastic surgery has come to be viewed as a commodity rather than a specialized service. Dr. Kim is not only a talented and skilled ASPS plastic surgeon he is also a talented artist in his own right. The art of plastic surgery is completely driven by talent and what is commonly known as an artistic eye. This is impossible to quantify by dollars. In simple terms it is the reason why a Picasso painting is worth more than that of an unknown artist. When choosing a plastic surgeon patient should always consider the talent and skills of the plastic surgeon they are considering. Patients who are interested in pursuing cosmetic plastic surgery are encouraged to contact Dr. Kims office and schedule a consultation.

Having a pear shape for woman used to be considered a good thing. Think Marilyn Monroe or Jane Russell they were considered bombshells. But, a new LA Times article is having women rethink the pear shape and the health implications that come along with it. According to the article women with the pear-shaped are at a slight increase for the risk of developing diabetes because fat that is stored in buttocks releases abnormal levels of two proteins that are linked with inflammation and insulin resistance. The emerging research is calling into question the cardiovascular and diabetes risk for those who carry excess fat on their hips, thighs, and bottoms when compared to those who carry most of their weight around the middle. A new study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism focus on a number of proteins that help to identify people who are at risk for obesity and the medical troubles associated with it. Researchers found that participants who had fat around the buttocks pumped out an unusually high level of proteins that are associated with high blood pressure. Abdominal fat has long been the most detrimental when it comes to health and gluteal fat was believed to protect against diabetes so this study is significant in helping medical doctors share the information with patients that at in either area can be detrimental to the patients health. Controlling the shape of the body for women can be challenging especially after menopause. Dr. Kim encourages patients to be proactive concerning their body contour and additional fat that can significantly change body contour. Addressing concerns early on can make a huge difference in the cosmetic surgery options available to the patient. Patients who are significantly overweight are no longer suitable candidates for liposuction or abdominoplasty. These procedures are most beneficial for patients who are at or near their ideal body weight. Although abdominoplasty does remove loose and lax skin, patients who are obese will not be able to appreciate the cosmetic advantage of a flatter and more toned abdomen. Liposuction allows Dr. Kim to reduce fat in targeted areas therefore modifying the body contour of the patient. While it is unrealistic to expect a complete change in the genetic body contour of the patient, it is feasible to expect a more attractive and proportionate body contour following abdominoplasty and or liposuction. Patients who are considering body contouring procedures are encouraged to contact Dr. Kim and schedule a consultation.

So, you have had your breast implants over 10 years now that it is 2013. Whens the last time you had them checked? Maybe you have saline implants because your original surgery was performed during the time when silicone implants were not available. Perhaps you have accepted the irregularities and contour differences in your breast and chocked them up to part of the aging process. Or maybe, you have decided that there is no way you could afford to have them redone so you will just live with the way they look and feel even though you are dissatisfied. All of these reasons are common reasons why women put off having their breast implants checked unless there is a significant and obvious problem(like a deflation or obvious rupture). Dr. Kim advises patients to have their breast implants checked annually as does the FDA and implant manufacturers. Although breast implants have a lifetime warranty for the most part, it is still incumbent upon the patient to have their breast implants checked by the plastic surgeon for any concerns or issues that may be present. It is easy to talk yourself out of ”opening a can of worms” when it comes to considering the possibility of breast implant exchange. There are many factors to consider. These factors include price, how the procedure will be performed, which implants would be best, and many more. Realistically, this is why a consultation allowing Dr. Kim to check the implants is imperative in helping patients clearly view the options that are available. Breast implant exchange could also include the need for what is known as a capsulectomy. This procedure will help to release excess scar tissue which is likely to be present especially with older implants. Dr. Kim will carefully explain the differences between the new cohesive gel silicone implants and the liquid silicone gel implants that were previously available on the market. Patients will have access to multiple before-and-after photographs of patients just like them who exchange their breast implants for new breast implants. The beginning of 2013 is the perfect time to have your breast implants checked and if breast implant exchange is the recommendation, having surgery now will assure that you will be beautifully healed by the summer months. Patients who are considering breast implant exchange are encouraged to contact Dr. Kims office and schedule a consultation.

Looking for ways to lose weight can be a never-ending battle. According to recent article people who reduce added sugars in their diet loose on average about 1.7 pounds. Researchers say this amount may be small but it is significant. The result was published in the paper online in the British medical Journal that reviewed 71 studies of sugar intake as they relate to wait. The World Health Organization recommended in 2003 that people limit their sugar intake to approximately 10% of calories. The agency commissioned this study to examine if they should update their recommendation. The studies also revealed that increasing consumption of added sugars has resulted in approximately 1 1/2 pounds of weight gain according to the University of Otago and Reddit Institute in New Zealand. Weight gain is only one of the health effects that can be directly associated with sugar however researchers noted that weight gain is only one of the” definitive conclusions” that could be surmised.  The utilize terms including” free “sugars which they defined as though sugars that were added to foods by the manufacturer, cook, or consumer, and also included those found in honey, syrups and fruit juices.Walter Willett, a professor at the Harvard School of Public Health, added in an accompanying editorial that reducing consumption of sugar sweetened drinks is a high priority. This is a stand many health activist and researchers share. He called policies including soda taxes are useful and wrote that medical professionals should lead the way. He added that any particular limit would be somewhat arbitrary. 10% of calories which is 5% less than the average in the United States and the United Kingdom could be seen as a realistic goal. The American Heart Association suggests a 5% limit on calories from sugar in the diet. This is more consistent with a goal for optimal health. As patients struggle with maintaining a realistic and stable weight it is no surprise that patients are also looking for ways to maintain their best contour and shape. Dr. Kim explains to patients that while liposuction will help them to create better and more proportionate body contour, it is not a weight loss procedure. In order to be viable candidate for liposuction patients must be at or near their ideal body weight. Dr. Kim uses his artistic talent and surgical skill to help patients achieve better contour and shape in areas including the abdomen, outer thighs, and upper and lower back. Patients who are considering liposuction are encouraged to contact Dr. Kim’s office and schedule a consultation.

Choosing to eat at a restaurant for most people is expected to have some element of enjoyment. With the obesity epidemic rampant regulations have pressured restaurants to list their caloric intake of their dishes. Realistically anyone who orders fried chicken, mashed potatoes, or other known high calorie foods is not expecting a low number if they decide to check out the number of calories in their selection. A recent Los Angeles Times article highlighted the Center for Science in the Public Interest harsh critique of some restaurant choices by handing out what they called the “Xtreme Eating Awards”. The article included dishes like IHOP country fried steak and eggs which they noted has 1760 cal. The IHOP spokesman reiterated that guest have several options and that IHOP has a range of items that are under 600 cal. Maggiano’s Little Italy, was included on the report however there spokesman says that they are served in generous portions, perfect for sharing or enjoying later at home. The company also added that the kitchen staff is willing to change dishes to suit customer’s needs. Chili’s was also cited and quickly responded that they offer a lighter choices menu to meet the needs of their guest. The Cheesecake Factory also weighed in making it clear that they have many calorie choices that are less than 200 items. They pointed out that many of the guests that come into the restaurant to celebrate and are not concerned with calories. Others want to share their dish and The Cheesecake Factory stated that they encourage that. Federal dietary guidelines suggest that an adult should eat about 2000 cal per day. Dr. Kim explains to his patients that maintaining a proper diet following body contouring procedures is critical for lifetime result. Patients who are not good about diet and exercise following liposuction or abdominoplasty procedures are likely to gain at least some of the weight back and compromise the body contour they were able to achieve after the procedure. This does not mean that patients have to be extreme following their plastic surgery procedure; only that they are focused and conscious of the potential to gain weight. Patients who are considering liposuction or abdominoplasty are encouraged to contact Dr. Kim and schedule a consultation.

Most people underestimate their real weight according to recent article. Men and women specifically those that are obese have become more likely than ever before to underestimate their true weight according to recent study. In a paper published in the Journal PLos ONE, researchers at the University college of Cork analyzed height and weight data for Irish adults over a nine year span of time. They found in three separate health surveys in which many women were asked to guess their height and weight, and those figures were in turn used to calculate BMI, over time the participants underestimated their weight increasingly over time. The height measurements that were estimated were surprisingly much more consistent. BMI is used as an indicator body fat content. Based on a person’s BMI they are categorized as either underweight, normal, overweight, or obese. People in the obese category will face greater risks to their health. The researchers surmised that the reporting of BMI and its inaccuracies have increased over time due to the normalization of obesity. In other words, obesity has become commonplace and it has altered the view of what people consider normal or obese. Dr. Kim explains to patients who contact him desiring body contouring procedures including liposuction or abdominoplasty that it is imperative that they are not obese. While it makes sense to many patients to consider liposuction as a removal of fat and therefore allowing them to lose weight the reality is that liposuction is a contouring procedure that removes only small amounts of fat for the purpose of achieving better contour. And abdominoplasty will remove loose and lax skin or what is also known as an abdominal flap; however, on a person who is obese the true aesthetic value is lost. Dr. Kim also shares with patients who have invested in abdominoplasty and or liposuction that is in their best interest to maintain a healthy weight and a consistent exercise program to maintain the best long-term life long results. Patients who are considering liposuction or abdominoplasty are encouraged to contact Dr. Kim and schedule a consultation.

Most reports in the media are highlighting the increase in men choosing cosmetic plastic surgery procedures. The uptick in men has patients has been fairly steady over the past decade. As the marketplace becomes more competitive, men can no longer ignore the value placed on a youthful appearance. The competition can be not only in the workplace but also from a personal perspective as well. The Internet has had a profound effect on how people are viewed and in which format. For many men this could include photos on Facebook, Skype, or Facetime. Without the clear advantage of a confident and youthful appearance some men could lose out. Dr. Kim explains to men that while there are differences from then who are having plastic surgery compared to women having plastic surgery, overall the most important aspect is that the plastic surgeon understands the differences in not only the structure of the male body but also the differences in the expectations of men compared with women. Most men do not want a dramatic difference that would be noticeable to everyone. Most preferred gradual improvement. The most popular procedures for men include gynecomastia surgery which removes male breast tissue, liposuction, and brow lift. For most men downtime is a serious issue. Combining procedures will slightly increase the recovery time; however, most patients prefer to combine procedures so that they are experiencing only one recovery. Dr. Kim also explains to his male patients that the popular procedures usually have only mild to moderate pain for most men. Since men tend to be less than later than women with surgical procedures, doctors and pain, men are likely to be overly concerned about the possible pain they will experience. Dr. Kim assures them that they will be given proper medication to help manage the pain. Men who are considering plastic surgery are encouraged to contact Dr. Kim’s office and schedule a consultation.