Canada Day

This week finds Dr. Ekstrom and I in Riga, Latvia, attending Consul Meetings at the foreign ministry – more on that next week. Today, on the first of July, my mind wanders to Canada as the country where I grew up celebrates its Independence Day, known as Canada Day. Many of you know that I was born in a refugee camp in Germany after World War II and emigrated to Canada in 1951. I lived there during my formative years, from grade school through college and medical school at the University of Toronto. I then moved to the United States to study at Columbia University and Harvard. I never moved back to Canada but visit frequently as my mother and sister still live there and I cherish memories of my youth.

I have many fond memories of growing up in Northern Ontario. Cold winters, summers with long days and the outdoors defined my childhood. I experienced nature firsthand, spending countless hours skiing, hiking, canoeing, fishing, hunting, and picking blueberries, raspberries, and mushrooms. Canada’s natural beauty and abundant resources left an indelible mark on me. The sprawling forests, pristine lakes, and majestic mountains showcase the country’s vast and diverse landscapes.

Canada’s natural resources are a cornerstone of its economy and identity. From the rich mineral deposits and vast forests to the fertile agricultural lands and abundant freshwater, these resources have shaped the nation’s development and continue to be a source of pride and prosperity.

Canada’s journey to independence is a significant chapter in its history. On July 1, 1867, the British North America Act came into effect, uniting the colonies of Canada, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia into a single Dominion within the British Empire. This act marked the birth of modern Canada, with its own constitution and a parliamentary form of government. Over the years, Canada has evolved into a fully sovereign nation, with the patriation of the Constitution in 1982 being a pivotal moment. This event granted Canada full control over its constitution (transferring control from the British parliament to Canada), symbolizing the country’s complete autonomy.

Today, Canada stands as a vibrant, multicultural nation with a strong commitment to democracy, human rights, and social justice. Its rich history and natural beauty continue to inspire and attract people from around the world, making it a cherished homeland for many, including myself. Canada is a part of NATO and its troops are deployed in Latvia as a first line of defense against a Russian invasion – thank you for that, Canada! My only beef with Canada is that it does not live up to its commitment to NATO to spend 2% of it’s GDP on defense (Canada is stuck at a paltry 1.2% of GDP defense expenditure).

Dr. Bunkis fishing in 1957 on Larder Lake in northern Ontario, Canada.

Dr. Bunkis canoeing across Lake Louise in Alberta, Canada in 2007.

As we age, our bodies undergo significant changes, particularly in how fat is distributed. While we tend to accumulate fat around our abdomens, we often lose it in our faces and hands, leading to a gaunt appearance. This loss of volume can make us look older and more tired than we feel. Microfat grafting offers a revolutionary solution to rejuvenate these areas by restoring the lost volume with fat harvested from other parts of the body.

How It’s Done

Microfat grafting involves harvesting fat from areas where it is abundant, such as the abdomen or thighs, through liposuction. This fat is then carefully processed to purify and concentrate the viable fat cells. Once ready, the fat is meticulously injected into the targeted areas of the face or hands using fine cannulas. This precision ensures a smooth and natural-looking enhancement.

Effectiveness

The results of microfat grafting can be remarkable. It not only restores volume but also improves skin texture and tone. The transplanted fat contains stem cells, which promote skin regeneration and increase collagen production. Patients often notice a more youthful and refreshed appearance, with improvements continuing over several months as the fat integrates and the skin benefits from the regenerative properties.

Side Benefits

One of the significant advantages of microfat grafting is that it uses the patient’s own fat, minimizing the risk of allergic reactions or rejection. Additionally, minor procedures can be performed under local anesthesia with sedation, reducing the downtime and risks associated with general anesthesia. Patients can typically resume normal activities within a few days, making it a convenient option for those with busy lifestyles.

A Convenient Alternative to Facelifts

While facelifts offer a more dramatic transformation, microfat grafting is a less invasive option that can provide substantial improvements, especially when combined with other rejuvenation procedures. For those unwilling to undergo surgery, microfat grafting alone can achieve impressive results. The hands, often neglected in anti-aging treatments, also benefit greatly from fat grafting. As the skin thins and fat diminishes, veins and tendons become more prominent. Fat grafting restores volume to the hands, making them appear fuller and more youthful.

In conclusion, microfat grafting is a magical solution for those seeking to combat the signs of aging without undergoing major surgery. By leveraging the body’s natural resources, it offers a safe, effective, and relatively quick path to a rejuvenated appearance.

65-year-old female who wished to have her brows elevated but was reluctant to have a facelift. Dr. Ekstrom performed an endoscopic brow lift and a fat transfer to the face. She is thrilled with her rejuvenated new look and she told us her confidence soared! Height: 5’2″ Weight: 139 pounds (actual patient of Dr. Deborah Ekstrom)

51-year-old who was looking for a conservative fill of her dorsal hands. She wanted to ensure that her right ring finger remained small to accommodate her rings. Fat was taken from her thighs and her hip rolls. Height: 5’6″ Weight: 143 pounds (actual patient of Dr. Deborah Ekstrom)

For CA, please call 949-888-9700 or visit www.orangecountyplasticsurgery.com
Or for MA location, call 508-755-4825 or visit www.salisburyps.com