July 4th – the Most Meaningful of Holidays!

I was not born in America – I chose to come here! I had little choice as to where I was born. After the Second World War, my parents found themselves in a refugee camp in Lubeck, Germany. I was born there, and a year and a half later, we emigrated to Canada, where I spent my childhood and university years, finishing the University of Toronto Medical School.

I chose to come to the United States to do my residency training. After an additional four years at Columbia University and three years at Harvard University, it seemed natural to take a job in the United States, but I still was not convinced that I would stay here for the rest of my life. After my son was born in 1986, I realized that I was here to stay, applied for citizenship, and became an American citizen in September of 1986.
To me as an immigrant, July 4th holds a profound and unique significance. It represents the celebration of American independence and the values that this nation was built upon. It is a day that symbolizes freedom, opportunity, and the pursuit of a better life. And how good the United States has been to me!
On this day, an immigrant feels a sense of belonging and gratitude for the opportunities provided by their adopted country. When I came to the United States, my country of origin, Latvia, was still an enslaved part of the Soviet Union. I realized how blessed I was compared to my cousins who were growing up in the Soviet Union.

My son, Justin, with my parents, July 4th parade – 1986)

July 4th is a time for immigrants to honor their heritage while embracing their new identity as Americans. It is a day to celebrate the diverse tapestry of cultures that make up this great nation and to contribute to its ongoing story of hope and freedom.
Thank you America – I will remain eternally grateful for the opportunities you have given me!

the decision to have the work done and it remains one of the best decisions I ha The decision to have a facelift is highly personal – I chose to have one about ten years ago because I disliked my neck laxity and jowling. When I looked in the mirror, I saw an older man staring back at me, someone who looked older than I felt.
There are several motivations that may drive someone to pursue a facelift, a cosmetic surgical procedure aimed at rejuvenating the face. Firstly, many individuals seek a facelift to address signs of aging such as sagging skin, wrinkles, and loss of facial volume. They may desire a more youthful appearance and wish to regain self-confidence.
Societal pressures and cultural influences also play a role. In a society that places value on youthfulness and attractiveness, individuals may feel compelled to maintain a youthful appearance to stay competitive personally or professionally. As someone who was offering such procedures to others every day of my professional career, I also felt that I should practice what I preached.

Dr. Bunkis ten years ago before and 3 days after a facelift and blepharoplasty by Dr. Walther Jungwirth in Salzburg Austria. Dr. Jungwirth was my student 30 years earlier and we have remained very good friends.

Ultimately, the decision to have a facelift is highly personal and varies from person to person. It is crucial for individuals considering this procedure to have realistic expectations, understand the potential risks and benefits, and consult with qualified healthcare professionals to make an informed decision. I made ve made. If you are bothered by the signs of aging you see in the mirror, feel free to give us a call and come in to discuss your options.

Photo this year, ten years after my facelift and intermittent maintenance consisting of Botox, fillers and hormone pellets by 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

You can write to
Dr. John Compoginis at Contact Us Form
Dr. Staci Compoginis at Contact Us Form
Dr. Deborah Ekstrom at mds@salisburyps.com
or Dr. Juris Bunkis at Contact Us Form