November 30th, 2009 admin
Cosmetic Surgery Tax: What does it mean for the consumer?
BUFFALO, NY - The Senate health reform bill includes a 5 percent cosmetic procedures tax. Does this make you angry? Well I am mad as hell. Government spending is out of control and the public pays the price. This is a discriminatory tax mainly levied against women. According to the ASPS, 86% of cosmetic surgery patients are women.
Research has shown that 60% of the respondents in a recent cosmetic surgery survey, who plan on having a cosmetic surgery procedure, have an annual household income of $30,000 to $60,000. Only 10% have an income over $90,000. This data refutes any claims that cosmetic surgery is for the wealthy only.
I encourage all readers to take action by contacting their Congressmen to oppose this provision in the Senate health reform bill. Please voice your disapproval for this provision.
Posted in PLASTIC SURGERY | No Comments »
November 23rd, 2009 admin
IS BOTOX STILL KING?
BUFFALO, NY – Ever since Botox Cosmetic received its FDA approval on April 4, 2002, it has been an overwhelming success. It is the number one nonsurgical cosmetic procedure being performed worldwide. This was the only product of its kind until April 30, 2009 when Dysport was introduced into the marketplace. Both Botox Cosmetic and Dysport are produced from Botulinum toxin type A and are highly effective in reducing facial wrinkles. These products act by blocking the effects of acetylcholine on the neuromuscular receptors, temporarily preventing muscle contraction. Without contraction of the muscles in the treated area wrinkles cannot be formed.
The onset of Dysport is reportedly quicker, within 1-2 days whereas Botox Cosmetic take 3-5 days. It spreads more easily allowing less injections when treating a longer area such as the forehead. Initially it was felt to be less expensive. This is true for cost per unit. However more units are needed to achieve the same results as Botox Cosmetic. In the long run Botox Cosmetic is probably less expensive. The last issue is longevity. Unfortunately, there have been no controlled studies to determine which product lasts longer. Both products will probably last 4-6 months but this is site and individual specific.
How well Dysport will measure up against Botox Cosmetic is yet to be seen. The answer to this question will be answered as Dysport becomes more widely used. The introduction of a new neurotoxin is good for the marketplace. Competition will probably help to drive the cost lower. This will allow the patient to pay less for their treatments. Already Allergan, the producers of Botox Cosmetic, are offering rebates and points for purchase program that have brought down the cost to consumers.
Dr Todd Koch
Posted in BOTOX | No Comments »
November 6th, 2009 admin
Textured Implants vs Smooth Implants
Textured breast implant can lower capsular contracture rate
BUFFALO, NY – I just received my certification from Allergan Academy. This symposium was designed to bring you up to date on some of the latest findings on breast surgery. At this latest meeting in Seattle, Washington, data was presented to show that textured surfaced breast implants have a lower capsular contracture rate than smooth surfaced breast implants when placed under the breast tissue. Most plastic surgeons are well aware of this fact but definitive evidence was presented to confirm our clinical impressions.
Back in the ‘80s a breast implant was designed that had a textured polyurethane foam covering. It was known as the Meme or Replicon implant. This implant had an excellent tract record for preventing capsular contractures. Over time the polyurethane foam covering would breakdown in the body leaving the smooth breast implant. There was a debate at that time whether the texturing of the implant or the breakdown of the polyurethane by the body caused the contractures to be less. This debate is mute now since these implants were removed from the market and have been unavailable since the early ‘90s. Some experts believed that the polyurethane foam covered breast implants increased the risk of breast cancer in women. One of the breakdown products of the polyurethane was a chemical called TDA. This chemical was known to cause cancer in animals. After the completion of an FDA investigation the risk of developing cancer from polyurethane foam covered breast implants has been found to be relatively small.
One question that was not addressed was whether a textured implant offered the same benefits when placed under the muscle. Most practitioners agree that there is no advantage to using a textured breast implant under the muscle. It is hypothesized that the contraction of the chest muscles acts to compress the implant and display the implant inside its pocket. This mechanical massage appears to help prevent capsular contracture.
Dr Todd Koch
Posted in BREAST AUGMENTATION | No Comments »
November 5th, 2009 admin
Annual Plastic Surgeon meeting in Seattle
American Society of Plastic Surgery national meeting
BUFFALO, NY – I just returned from the national meeting of the American Society of Plastic Surgery (ASPS) in Seattle, Washington. This was a wonderful gathering of the experts in Plastic Surgery. I was able to learn about many new approaches to treating all types of Plastic Surgery problems. Not only did I expand my knowledge base, but I was able to review the current trends in Plastic surgery.
During this meeting I attended Allergan Academy. I learned many new and exciting areas in Breast implants and Breast Augmentation. This expanded my knowledge in the field of Breast surgery which will assist me in the care of my patients.
There were many exhibitors present. I learned about many new products and procedures. Many of these products will be a great addition to my practice.
Seattle is a great city. I recommend you visit here whenever you get a chance. There are many wonderful sites to visit. Definitely a city with a lot to see and do.
Dr Todd Koch
Posted in BREAST AUGMENTATION, PLASTIC SURGERY | No Comments »
November 2nd, 2009 admin
Botox Rebates through Allergan’s Brilliant Distinction Program
BOTOX , Juvederm, Latisse, and many other products are eligible for this program!
BUFFALO, NY – Dr. Koch now participates with Allergan’s Brilliant Distinctions Program. This is a wonderful opportunity for patients to receive rebates on Allergan products. Patients will be able to earn points by purchasing BOTOX Cosmetic treatments.
This is how it works. After every Botox treatment you will be able to redeem points for coupon savings on eligible Allergan products or services. Included in this offer are BOTOX cosmetic, Juvederm, Latisse, Clinique medical, Vivite products and M.D. Forte products. The more you participate and accumulate points the greater the rewards.
This is an excellent opportunity to receive Allergan products at a nice savings. Call Dr. Koch at 716-631-1220 to find out how to start obtaining these benefits.
Posted in BOTOX | 1 Comment »
