Exploring Massachusetts with Friends from the UK

This past weekend, we had the pleasure of hosting dear friends from the UK, who share our passion for history. Where better to explore the roots of American democracy than in Massachusetts? We kicked off our adventure with a guided tour of the Freedom Trail in Boston. The tour was a remarkable journey through time, guided by a remarkable retired history professor, with visits to iconic landmarks like the Boston Common, the Massachusetts State House, Faneuil Hall and the Old North Church. Each stop brought to life the true stories of the brave individuals who fought for the independence we cherish today.

That evening, we enjoyed a lovely dinner in Boston’s historic North End, soaking in the ambiance of this vibrant neighborhood known for its rich Italian heritage and delicious cuisine. If you would like a special treat, next time you visit the North End, try Mamma Maria and ask for the private room (table 99) for four guests, upstairs.

The next day, we headed to the North Shore, focusing on the intriguing history of Salem. A visit to the Salem Witch Museum offered a profound look into the events surrounding the infamous witch trials of 1692. The museum’s exhibits and storytelling gave us a deeper understanding of the fear and hysteria that gripped the community. We ended the day in the picturesque town of Rockport, taking in the stunning coastal views and charming art galleries.

On our third day, we visited Lexington and Concord, where the first shots of the American Revolution were fired. Walking through these historic battlefields, we felt a deep connection to the past and the sacrifices made for our nation’s freedom.

We spent our final day together enjoying each other’s company. Our guests packed while we had some coffee at home. We visited the Bolton Orchards farm to introduce our guests to apple cider and apple cider donuts. We visited the Tower Hill Botanic Gardens. And we took them to the Clinton Bar & Grill for lunch.

After a whirlwind of history and exploration, we bid our friends farewell as they headed back to the UK. Tomorrow, it’s back to work at our Worcester office, refreshed and ready to serve you.

Dr. Ekstrom, with our UK guests, Mark Charlwood and Sue Gaffyne, on the Lexington Green, where the first shots of the Revolutionary War were fired.

Sue and Mark on the Freedom Trail with our Boston Crier guide, retired Boston University history professor, Jeff

Dining at Mamma Maria’s in the North End

Recently, a patient expressed surprise upon noticing an equal number of men and women in our reception area. This observation highlights a significant trend in the field of aesthetic surgery: the increasing popularity of cosmetic procedures among men.

Historically, cosmetic surgery has been primarily associated with women. However, in recent years, there has been a notable shift. Men are now seeking procedures like eyelid tucks (blepharoplasty), gynecomastia (male breast reduction) and rhinoplasty (nose reshaping) to enhance their appearance and confidence. Beyond these traditional surgeries, facial rejuvenation has become increasingly popular among men. This interest is often driven by the desire to remain competitive in the workplace, where looking youthful can be an asset. Men are also recognizing the importance of maintaining a refreshed appearance, which can positively impact not only the professional, but also the personal aspects of their lives.

In addition to surgical procedures, men are increasingly turning to nonsurgical options such as dermal fillers. These treatments offer a less invasive way to achieve a more youthful appearance, with minimal downtime. Another growing trend among male patients is the use of bioidentical hormone pellets, which can help address age-related hormonal imbalances and enhance overall well-being.

In California, the percentage of male patients seeking aesthetic procedures has steadily increased. Today, men make up a significant portion of our patient base, reflecting a broader national trend. This shift underscores the changing attitudes toward male grooming and self-care, as men become more comfortable pursuing aesthetic enhancements.

As the stigma around male cosmetic procedures diminishes, we expect this trend to continue. Whether it’s a desire to look younger, feel more confident, or simply enhance one’s appearance, more men are embracing the possibilities that aesthetic surgery offers.

75 year old male, still working, told us he felt he “was losing business to “younger people”, sought facial rejuvenation. He is shown here before and after a rejuvenating facelift and upper/lower blepharoplasty by Dr. Bunkis.

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