Glossary of Estetic Plastic
Surgery Terms
A B C
D E F
G H I
J K L M
N O P Q
R S T
U V W X Y Z
Abdominoplasty ("Tummy Tuck")
Sometimes after multiple pregnancies or large weight loss,
abdominal muscles weaken, and skin in the area becomes flacid.
Abdominoplasty can tighten the abdominal muscles and, in some
instances, improve stretch marks. In both men and women, the
procedure will remove excess skin and fat. Generally, an incision
is made across the pubic area and around the umbilicus (navel).
When skin laxity and muscle weakness is confined to the lower part
of the abdomen, a modified abdominoplasty that limits tissue
removal and muscle repair to the area below the umbilicus may be
performed. This usually leaves a shorter scar and no scarring
around the navel.
Alopecia
Medical term for baldness. From the Grek for ‘fox mange’
Alpha Hydroxy Acids
Alpha hydroxy acids are derived from foods, such as fruits and
milk, and can improve the texture of skin by removing layers of
dead cells and encouraging cell regeneration.
Anticoagulant
An agent that reduces the ağabeylity of the blood to clot
Antiplatelet
Platelets are tiny cells in the blood that play an essential role
in blood clotting. An antiplatelet agent reduces their function
and can initiate bruising or bleeding.
Augmentation Mammoplasty (see Breast Augmentation)
Blepharoplasty (see Eyelid Surgery)
Brachioplasty
A surgical procedure also known as armlift to correct saggying of
the upper arms
Breast Augmentation (Augmentation Mammoplasty)
Breast augmentation is typically performed to enlarge small
breasts, underdeveloped breasts or breasts that have decreased in
size after a woman has had children. It is accomplished by
surgically inserting an implant behind each breast. An incision is
made either under the breast, around the areola (the pink skin
surrounding the nipple) or in the armpit. A pocket is created for
the implant either behind the breast tissue or behind the muscle
between the breast and the chest wall.
Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
Frequently, a woman elects this surgery after losing a
considerable amount of weight, or losing volume and tone in her
breasts after having children. The plastic surgeon relocates the
nipple and areola (the pink skin surrounding the nipple) to a
higher position, repositions the breast tissue to a higher level,
removes excess skin from the lower portion of the breast and then
reshapes the remaining breast skin. Scars are around the areola,
extending vertically down the breast and horizontally along the
crease underneath the breast. Variations on this technique, in
some cases, may result in less noticeable scarring.
Brow Lift
A surgical process to correct sagging of the brow and smooth
furrows across the forehead and between the brows.
Breast Implants (Textured-Surface)
The shell of textured-surface breast implants are made with the
same silicone elastomer that is used for the shell of other types
of breast implants, but a special manufacturing process creates a
textured surface.
Breast Reduction (Reduction Mammoplasty)
Breast reduction is normally classified as a reconstructive
procedure, since oversize breasts interfere with normal function
and physical activity. However, there is an important aesthetic
component to the operation, since the plastic surgeon can improve
the shape of the breasts and nipple areas. Breast reduction
involves removing excess breast tissue and skin, repositioning the
nipple and areola (the pink skin surrounding the nipple) and
reshaping the remaining breast tissue.
Buccal Fat Pad
Buccal fat pads are located above the jawline near the corner of
the mouth. They can be removed in individuals with excessively
round faces to give a more contoured look, sometimes referred to
as the "waif look." However, plastic surgeons warn that, in some
individuals, removal of the buccal fat pads can lead to a drawn,
hollow-cheeked look as aging progresses.
Buttock Lift
Excess fat and loose skin in the buttock area can be reduced by
performing a buttock lift in combination with lipoplasty (liposuction).
Incisions required for skin removal can often be hidden in the
fold beneath the buttocks.
Calf Augmentation
Increased fullness of the calf can be achieved using implants made
of hard silicone which are inserted from behind the knee and moved
into position underneath the calf muscle.
Cannula
A hollow tube attached to a high-vacuum device used to remove fat
through liposuction. The plastic surgeon manipulates the cannula
within the fat layers under the skin, dislodging the fat and "vacuuming"
it out.
Capsular Contracture
Capsular contracture is the most common problem associated with
breast implants. It occurs when naturally forming scar tissue
around the implant shrinks and tightens, making the breast feel
firmer than normal and sometimes causing pain and an unnatural
appearance of the breast.
Cellulite
Cellulite is the dimpled-looking fat that often appears on the
buttocks, thighs and hips. While there is no treatment that will
eradicate this problem, aesthetic plastic surgeons are exploring
new techniques which may improve the condition. One method is to
cut the fibrous tissue that binds the fat down in these areas and
creates the lumpy appearance, and then to inject fact withdrawn
from elsewhere in the body to smooth out the unevenness. Another
technique, called the cellulite lift, surgically removes excess
skin and fat, leaving a thin scar that may extend around the full
circumference of the abdomen but is placed discreetly within
bikini lines.
Chemical Peel
Fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth and on the forehead and
cheek areas may be improved with a wide range of skin treatments.
A chemical peel solution is applied to the entire face or to
specific areas to peel away the skin's top layers. Several light
to medium-depth peels can often achieve similar results to one
deeper peel treatment, with less risk and shorter recovery time.
Peel solutions may contain alpha hydroxy acids, tricholoracetic
acid (TCA) or phenol as the peeling agent, depending on the depth
of peel desired and on other patient selection factors.
Chin Augmentation (Mentoplasty)
Chin augmentation can strengthen the appearance of a receding chin
by increasing its projection. The procedure does not affect the
patient's bite or jaw. There are two techniques: one is performed
through an incision inside the mouth and involves moving the
chinbone, then wiring it into position; the other approach
requires insertion of an implant through an incision inside the
mouth, between the lower lip and the gum, or through an external
incision
underneath the chin.
Coagulant
An agent that helps the blood to clot
Collagen Injections
Collagen is an injectable natural protein that can be used to
treat facial wrinkles. Patients to be treated with collagen should
first be tested for any allergic reaction. The results of collagen
injections are not permanent, and treatments must be repeated
periodically to maintain results.
Cosmetic Surgery
Surgery that aims to change the appearance fort he beter in the
absence of any pathology. It is also known as aesthetic (or
beautifying) surgery. If there is an obvious pathology such as a
burn or scar then the surgery is spoken of as being plastic or
reconstructive.
Dermis
The deep layer of the skin. It is mainly made of collagen with a
few elastic fibres. It is the main constituent of leather. It also
contains the glands and hair follicles.
Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion is a procedure in which a high-speed rotary wheel,
similar to fine-grained sandpaper, is used to abrade the skin. It
may be recommended when there is extensive sun damage and heavy
skin wrinkling. In addition, dermabrasion can be used to improve
the texture of pockmarked skin resulting from severe acne or
chicken pox. Following treatment, the skin should appear firmer
and smoother, but permanent pigment changes may occur.
Earlobe Reduction
A simple, 30-minute procedure, earlobe reduction can be performed
in a plastic surgeon's office or at the same time as a facelift
operation. The earlobe should not comprise more than 25 percent of
the total length of the ear. In cases where it exceeds this
dimension, an L-shaped wedge is cut away, the earlobe edges are
brought together and sutured.
Elective
Of an operation’ it means at the option of the doctor or patient’
and implies that it is not urgently or medically necessary.
Epidermis
The outside layer of the skin. It is made up or several layers of
cells. New cells are being continuously produced in the deeper
layers and they gradually get flatter as they near the surface
anda re eventually shed.
Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)
Aesthetic eyelid surgery can brighten the face and restore a more
youthful appearance by reducing the fat that causes bags beneath
the eyes and removing wrinkled, drooping layers of skin on the
eyelids. Blepharoplasty is often performed along with a facelift
or with other facial rejuvenation procedures. Incisions follow the
natural contour lines in both upper and lower lids, or can be done
through the lining of the lower eyelid, providing access to skin
and fatty tissue. The thin surgical scars are usually barely
visible and blend into the eyes' natural lines and folds.
Facelift (Rhytidectomy)
A facelift can reduce sagging skin on the face and neck. Incisions
are placed in the hairline and then pass in front of and behind
the ears; the exact design of incisions may vary from patient to
patient and according to the surgeon's personal technique. For
younger patients, more limited incisions may be appropriate. When
necessary, removal of fatty deposits beneath the skin and
tightening of sagging muscles is performed. The slack in the skin
itself is then taken up and the excess removed. Scars can usually
be concealed by hair and makeup.
Fat Injections
Fat withdrawn from one body site can be injected into another --
for example, to smooth lines in the face or build up other
features such as the lips. In most cases, a percentage of injected
fat is resorbed by the body, and the procedure must be repeated.
Injection of fat to enlarge the breasts is a dangerous procedure
and is not recommended because of the possibility of dense
scarring that may seriously hinder accurate interpretation of both
breast self-exams and mammograms.
Fibrel
Fibrel is a synthetic substance which is an alternative to
collagen and fat injections for the treatment of facial wrinkles.
As with collagen and fat, fibrel treatments must repeated at
intervals to maintain correction.
Forehead Lift (Brow Lift)
The forehead lift is designed to correct or improve skin
wrinkling, as well as loss of tone and sagging of the eyebrows
that often occurs as part of the aging process. The procedure may
also help to smooth horizontal expression lines in the forehead
and vertical frown lines between the eyebrows. Incisions are
placed behind the hairline above the ear and pass over the top of
the head. In some cases, incisions may be placed in front of the
hairline. Some patients may have the procedure performed with the
use of an endoscope, requiring much shorter incisions.
Improvements are made beneath the skin and on the deep muscles;
skin and muscle are then tightened to give a fresher, more
youthful appearance.
Glabella
The area between the eyebrows
Hydroxyapatite Granules
Hydroxyapatite granules are a bone substitute made from coral that
can be used to enhance facial contours, such as forming more
prominent cheekbones. The substance also has reconstructive uses
in craniofacial surgery.
Injectable Fillers
Substances used to restore volume and restore a youthful
appearance.
Invasive Treatment
Treatment, such as surgery in which the body’s surface is cut or
opened to allow access beneath the skin.
Lasers
Lasers can be effectively used to eliminate surface blood vessels
on the face that become reddened and enlarged due to sun exposure.
The problem is most often seen in fair-skinned individuals who
cannot tan or have difficulty tanning. The use of lasers for skin
resurfacing is effective in reducing the effects of sun damage.
Laser resurfacing is an alternative to chemical peel for some
patients.
Lip Augmentation
A permanent method of augmenting the lips is accomplished by
surgically advancing the lip forward, with incisions placed inside
the mouth. A dermal-fat graft, taken from the deeper layers of the
skin, may then be positioned under the mucosa (the lining of the
lip) to add additional "plumpness." Injecting fat collagen or
other substances for lip augmentation is another alternative. The
correction is not permanent, and injections must be repeated
periodically to maintain results.
Lip Lift
A technique that surgically lifts the corners of the aging mouth
can eliminate the pronounced droop and unhappy facial expression
that often develops with advanced age. By cutting away small
diamonds of skin just above the corners of the mouth, the
vermilion (border of the lips) is raised into a slight smile.
Lip Reduction
To reduce the lips, a small strip of the mucosa (the lining of the
lip) is surgically removed to narrow the lips to the desired
proportion. The small scars on the outside of the lips are barely
noticeable.
Lipoplasty (Liposuction)
Lipoplasty allows the plastic surgeon to remove localized
collections of fatty tissue from the legs, buttocks, abdomen,
back, arms, face and neck using a high vacuum device. The
procedure leaves only minute scars, often as short as one-half
inch in length or less. The use of refined equipment allows
removal from delicate areas such as calves and ankles. Lipoplasty
removes fat, but it cannot eliminate dimpling or correct skin
laxity. If a patient's skin has lost much of its elasticity, the
plastic surgeon may recommend a skin tightening procedure such as
a thigh lift, buttock lift or arm lift, all of which leave more
extensive scars.
Malar (Cheekbone) Augmentation
The cheekbones may be built up by placing an implant over them.
This is usually performed through an incision within the mouth,
but it may be done through a lower eyelid or brow lift incision.
Mastopexy (see Breast Lift)
Maxillofacial
Description of a branch of surgery that specialises in treating
the face, especially the mouth and jaws. Maxillofacial surgeons
are usually qualified dentists as well as medical doctors.
MRI - magnetic resource imaging
A painless test to view tissue similar to an x-ray.
Nosalabilial Fold
Deep creases between the nose and mouth.
Oralotomy
An operation that cuts into something. From the Grek word ‘to
cut’.
Otoplasty (Ear Surgery)
The ears are positioned closer to the head by reshaping the
cartilage (supporting tissue). This is usually accomplished
through incisions placed behind the ears so that subsequent scars
will be concealed in a natural skin crease. Otoplasty can be
performed on children as early as age five or six.
Pathological
Involving or caused by the nature of disease or illness
Pathologicalopexy
An operation to place something in a better position. From the
Greek word meaning ‘to fix or put together’
Pathologicaloplasty
An operation to change the shape. From the Latin word that means
‘to mould’. A plastic is a substance that can be moulded’ such as
when it is heated.
Peel: Buffered Phenol
Buffered phenol offers yet another option for severely sun-damaged
skin. One such formula uses olive oil, among other ingredients, to
diminish the strength of the phenol solution. Another slightly
milder formula uses glycerin. Buffered phenol peels may be more
comfortable for patients, and the skin heals faster than with a
standard phenol peel.
Phenol
The chemical phenol is sometimes used for full-face peeling when
sun damage or wrinkling is severe. It can also be used to treat
limited areas of the face, such as deep wrinkles around the mouth,
but it may permanently bleach the skin, leaving a line of
demarcation between the treated and untreated areas that must be
covered with makeup.
Platysma
The muscle which, when tight and firm, gives the neck underneath
the chin and jawline its youthful contour. The platysma muscle can
be tightened during a facelift or as a separate procedure.
Revision
A second or subsequent operation or procedure that aims to improve
the result of the first.
Rosacea
Medical condition in which the blood vessels in the skin enlarge’
producing a flushed look. Often the skin thickens in chronic
cases. Tends to be seen over the cheeks and on the nose and is
exacerbated by sun exposure.
Reduction Mammoplasty (see Breast Reduction)
Retin-A
Retin-A cream or lotion may be applied to enhance the overall
texture of the skin and is often prescribed as a pre-treatment
prior to a facelift or chemical peel.
Revision
A second or subsequent operation or procedure that aims to improve
the result of the first.
Rhinoplasty: Open
The open rhinoplasty technique can sometimes benefit patients who
need more complex correction or are undergoing a secondary
rhinoplasty procedure. A small incision is made outside the nose
across the columella (the tissue that divides the two nostrils).
This enables the plastic surgeon to turn the outer tissue of the
nose back, providing visualization of the structures inside.
Additional incisions, like those used in the traditional closed
approach, are made inside the nose as well. The scar resulting
from the incision on the outside of the nose eventually becomes
barely visible.
Rhinoplasty (Nose Reshaping)
Rhinoplasty is usually performed to alter the size and shape of
the bridge and tip of the nose. Reshaping is generally done
through incisions inside the nose, but there may also be an
incision passing across the central portion of the nose between
the nostrils. It is sometimes necessary to narrow the base of the
nose or reduce the size of the nostrils, which involves removing
small wedges of skin at the base of the nostrils. The nose is
reduced, or sometimes built up, by adjusting its supporting
structures, which is done either by removing or adding bone and
cartilage. The skin and soft tissues then redrape themselves over
this new "scaffolding."
Rhytidectomy (see Facelift)
Saline implants
Breast implants filled with a salt water solution.
Silicon implants
Breast implants filled with an elastic gel solution.
Skin resurfacing
Treatment to improve the texture, clarity and overall appearance
of the skin.
Soft tissue augmentation
The use of injectable fillers to restore volume and youthful
appearance.
SMAS
The superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) is a layer of
tissue that covers the deeper structures in the cheek area and is
in continuity with the superficial muscle covering the lower face
and neck, called the platysma. Some facelift techniques lift and
reposition the SMAS as well as the skin.
Subdermal
Just underneath the skin. Subcuticular means the same
Superficial Syringe Liposculpture
Use of a syringe to withdraw fat, instead of vacuum suctioning
pumps, allows for less blood loss and speedier postoperative
recovery. Superficial syringe liposculpture is performed on the
layer of fat just beneath the skin.
Sutures
Stitches used by surgeons to hold skin and tissue together
Tattooing (Cosmetic)
Cosmetic tattooing, or micropigmentation, can be used for
permanent eyeliner, eyebrows or lip color. It can also be used for
permanent blush and eyeshadow, though this is infrequent. Other
uses by plastic surgeons include recreating the coloration of the
areola around the nipple following breast reconstruction;
restoring the color of dark or light skin where natural
pigmentation has been lost through such factors as vitiligo,
cancer, burns or other scarring; and eliminating some types of
birthmarks or previous tattoos. Micropigmentation should be
performed only under medical supervision by appropriately trained
personnel.
TCA
Trichloroacetic acid is used for peeling of the face, neck, hands
and other exposed areas of the body. It has less bleaching effect
than phenol, and is excellent for "spot" peeling of specific
areas. It can be used for deep, medium or light peeling, depending
on the concentration and method of application.
Thigh Lift
A thigh lift can be performed to tighten sagging muscles and
remove excess skin in the thigh area. Because a thigh lift leaves
noticeable scars in the inner or outer thigh area that some
patients find undesirable, it is not a frequently performed
procedure.
Tissue Expansion
Tissue expansion is a technique in which skin or other tissue is
stretched using inflatable balloons. It can be of particular value
in performing breast reconstruction, breast enlargement or
treatment of male pattern baldness.
Transconjunctival Blepharoplasty
Transconjunctival blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) is performed by
making an incision from inside the lower eyelid. It avoids any
scarring on the lower lid. It is a useful technique when only fat,
and not skin or muscle, needs to be removed from the eyelid area.
Tummy Tuck
A process to correct the excess skin hanging over the abdomen.
Ultrasound
A diagnostic procedure that projects high frequency sound waves
into the body and changes the echoes into pictures.
Viable
Lıkely or able to survıve or live. In medical usage, if part of
the body such as an area of skin is deprived of its blood supply
it may not be viable in which case it will die. The resulting skin
defect will cause a bad scar. Viability means having the attribute
of being viable.
Vital Signs
Specific features of a body that are associated with life. In
medical terminology it means the pulse rate, the blood pressure,
the oxygen level in the blood and the breathing rate. All of these
are monitored continuously during a general anaesthetic.
Glossary of Dentistry Terms
A
Abscess - When the nerve of the tooth becomes infected, it
can result in an abscess. Abutment - a term used to denote the
teeth on either side of a missing tooth
Adjustment - a modification made upon a dental prosthesis
after it has been completed and inserted into the mouth.
Alveolus - the bony socket in which the root of the tooth
sits
Amalgam - or silver filling an alloy in which one of the
metals is mercury.
Anatomical Crown - the portion of the tooth that is covered
with enamel.
Attrition - the wearing away of tooth structure through
normal use (i.e. Chewing, biting etc).
B
Bacteria - Saliva is an excellent natural anti bacterial
agent as it contains enzymes which keep the mouth clean. Keep
bacteria under control by regular brushing and dental check-ups.
Bleaching - cosmetic whitening of teeth using peroxide.
Bonding - the covering of a tooth surface to correct
stained or damaged teeth
Bridge - a fixed appliance (prosthesis) that replaces
missing teeth. A bridge is a series of attached crowns (abutments
and pontics).
Bruxism - or grinding of teeth, usually occurs during sleep.
C
Calculus - hard deposit of mineralised material adhering to
crowns and / or roots of teeth.
Cariogenic - promotes tooth decay.
Caries - common term for tooth decay.
Cast - reproduction of the mouth in stone or plaster.
Cavity - Acids cause the erosion of tooth enamel breaking
it down to form cavities. Limit sugary foods and drinks and
observe good oral hygiene.
Cement - a dental material used to seal inlays, onlays, and
crowns - also used for pupal protection.
Composite filling - tooth coloured restorative material.
The word "composite" refers to the mixture of filler particles in
a liquid resin. Commonly, the resin used is BIS-GMA (bis-ammamethylmetacrylate).
Filler particles are added to alter the colour and wear
characteristics.