Most people who visit a cosmetic plastic surgeon do so in order to improve the aesthetics of their face and/or body. However, some treatments can also be used to help those who have medical conditions and are in need of alternative solutions. Recently, Henry Winkler, former star of the television show “Happy Days”, stated that he believes Botox ® injections can be of great benefit to individuals who experience limb spasticity after a stroke. After watching his mother struggle with this condition for 10 years, he is dedicated to spreading the word on the use of Botox to help treat upper limb spasticity.

Therapeutic use of Botox injections allows patients to regain function of their upper limbs and once again be able to do normal, daily activities. After just two rounds of treatments, a stroke patient from Dallas, Texas was able to dress herself with minimal assistance, as well as stretch out her arms to embrace her children. By injecting Botox into the fingers, wrists, and elbows, the muscles relax and no longer hinder movement. In addition to helping stroke patients regain dexterity, Botox can be used to help those who suffer from chronic migraine headaches.

Based in the Dallas area, Benjamin Bassichis, M.D., F.A.C.S. is a facial surgeon who offers patients Botox injections for headache relief. Administered in small doses, Botox can also help treat severe sweating, an overactive bladder, and ringing in the ears. Fort Worth area Botox patients turn to Dr. Bassichis to undergo Botox injections in order to alleviate symptoms and all patients to enjoy a better quality of life.

Prospective patients may browse Dr. Bassichis’ website to learn more regarding Botox injections and schedule a consultation.

As the “Baby Boomers” enter their 50s and 60s, signs of aging are taking a toll on their facial appearance even though they may feel younger. In order to maintain their youthful look, many are opting to undergo cosmetic plastic surgery procedures. The most common of these include facelift surgery and eyelid surgery, as well as non-surgical facial rejuvenation treatments. The combination of these can often provide longer lasting results with a more natural look.

According to a study performed by the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS), patients undergoing facelift surgery increased by 44 percent from 2008 to 2009, while eyelid surgery rose 42 percent. In addition, Botox ® and facial fillers have also increased by 157 percent and 245 percent, respectively. This could be due in large part to the combination of surgical and non-surgical procedures in order to achieve long-lasting, optimal results. Surgeons have noticed a trend in their patients’ ages as well; members of the AACS say that the average age of their facelift patients is 54.1 years old, and eyelid surgery patients are 52.3 years of age. On average, those receiving Botox injections are 46.6 and individuals undergoing filler treatments are 46.8.

A Beverly Hills facelift surgery specialist,  plastic surgeon Jason B. Diamond, M.D., F.A.C.S. performs this facial rejuvenation procedure in order to help patients achieve a more refreshed appearance. Dr. Diamond also offers minimally invasive treatments, including Botox and laser skin resurfacing. Further details regarding these procedures are available on Dr. Diamond’s website.

Some attribute it to shows like “Dr. 90210,” “Extreme Makeover,” and “Nip/Tuck.” Others cite the “Oprah effect.” But as cosmetic surgery rises in popularity, it is likely that it has just as much to do with the way that Baby Boomers live their lives.

The topic was discussed at length in USA Today. According to the paper, Baby Boomers are working longer, remarrying, and trying to be healthier. “I just [want] to look as young as I feel,” said a 59-year old business owner who explained that he ate well and worked out, but supplemented his overall health regimen with cosmetic surgery. This sentiment is shared by millions of other Baby Boomers. Diet and exercise remain important to staying in shape, but while their bodies and lifestyles may not belie their age, their faces often do. Signs of aging such as baldness, crow’s feet, wrinkles, and sun damage cannot be rectified without surgical or non-surgical cosmetic procedures.

Because of this, some Baby Boomers are viewing cosmetic surgery as preventive medicine, much like visiting a dentist every six months. This shift is made possible partially by technological advances, which allow cosmetic procedures to be less intrusive than they once were. Surgical procedures, such as facelifts, liposuction and eyelid surgery have benefited from more precise tools that allow smaller incisions and faster recovery times. Meanwhile, other procedures, such as Botox, chemical peels and hair removal, do not require surgery at all.

It is often said that “30 is the new 20” and “40 and is the new 30” and so forth—and with cosmetic surgery, this is becoming even more true. Baby Boomers are claiming that cosmetic surgery helps them keep an edge not just in the dating scene, but also in high profile jobs. Dr. Amy Bandy, a Newport Beach plastic surgeon, often performs facial procedures and other types of cosmetic surgery for Baby Boomers in their 40s, 50s, and 60s. This may give them a more youthful look so they have the confidence to re-enter the workplace, pursue new romance, and/or otherwise continue an active, outgoing lifestyle.

As Baby Boomers continue to embrace their physical, professional, and social lives to the fullest, it seems as if the youth-restoring capabilities of cosmetic surgery make a perfect fit.