
The Timeless Magic of a Dollhouse
By Drs. Deborah Ekstrom and Juris Bunkis
Christmas has come and gone, leaving behind warm memories of laughter, family, and the joy of giving. This year, our home was filled with the sounds of excited grandchildren unwrapping gifts, each finding something special. Yet, among all the presents, one stood out—the gift we gave to all of our grandkids, meant to remain in our home for them to enjoy whenever they visit.
The dollhouse—a classic wooden structure with four exposed rooms—became the centerpiece of their play. What made it truly magical was not just its design, but the world within it: tiny furniture, bicycles, a whimsical orange pumpkin carriage, and, most importantly, the little “mice” characters that brought the house to life. To our surprise, despite receiving various other gifts, our grandchildren kept returning to the dollhouse, captivated by the possibilities it held.
A Brief History of Dollhouses:
Dollhouses have enchanted children for centuries, with origins dating back to 16th-century Europe. Initially, they were not toys but “cabinet houses,” miniature replicas of real homes commissioned by wealthy families to showcase their status. These intricate creations served as decorative pieces, not playthings. It wasn’t until the 19th century, with the rise of mass production, that dollhouses became widely available as children’s toys.
The famous German and Dutch dollhouses of the 17th and 18th centuries were exquisite, detailed works of art, often reflecting the lifestyle of the time. By the 20th century, companies like the Bliss Manufacturing Company in the U.S. and Germany’s Märklin began producing affordable versions, making them accessible to children everywhere.
Why Dollhouses Captivate Children:
There’s something uniquely special about dollhouses that keeps children engaged for hours. They offer an open-ended play experience, where kids can create stories, develop social skills, and immerse themselves in imaginative worlds. Through arranging furniture, inventing family dynamics, and orchestrating adventures, children learn problem-solving, spatial awareness, and emotional expression. The ability to craft and control a miniature world provides a sense of comfort and endless possibilities.
A Place of Welcome and Wonder:
Our grandchildren know they are always welcome in our home, and the dollhouse will be waiting for them each time they visit. Just as a home provides comfort and stability, this small wooden structure offers them a familiar space for creativity and joy.
In many ways, plastic surgery is about restoration and rejuvenation, helping people feel more at home in their own skin. Much like how a well-loved dollhouse can bring joy and confidence to a child, our work brings renewed confidence and self-assurance to our patients. Whether it’s through artistry in surgery or a carefully curated play space, the essence remains the same—creating something special, meaningful, and enduring.
The Fear of "Looking Different" – A Common Concern in Facial Rejuvenation
By Dr. Juris Bunkis
One of the biggest concerns patients express when considering facial rejuvenation is the fear of looking “different.” While everyone wants to appear refreshed and youthful, the idea of an unnatural or overly altered appearance can be daunting. The goal of a well-performed facelift is not to change who you are but to restore a more youthful version of yourself.
A successful facelift should be undetectable to others. The best outcomes allow patients to look rejuvenated without obvious signs of surgery. When performed skillfully, a facelift turns back the clock without altering the fundamental characteristics that make a person unique. Patients often worry about looking pulled or overdone, but modern techniques in facial rejuvenation prioritize natural-looking results that maintain facial harmony and balance.
One of the greatest compliments a patient can receive after a facelift is not “Who did your surgery?” but rather, “You look great—have you lost weight?” or “Did you change your hairstyle?” These subtle remarks indicate that the patient looks refreshed, but the transformation is so natural that others cannot pinpoint why.
The key to achieving these results lies in the hands of an experienced plastic surgeon who understands the intricacies of facial anatomy and the importance of personalized care. Every face ages differently, which means every facelift should be customized to address individual concerns while preserving the patient’s identity. A well-planned rejuvenation procedure enhances what nature provided rather than imposing a new look.
Ultimately, the best facelift is one that enhances confidence and self-esteem without making the patient feel like a different person. It should leave them looking like themselves—just more rested, youthful, and vibrant. If you’re considering facial rejuvenation but are hesitant due to fear of looking unnatural, consult with a skilled plastic surgeon who prioritizes natural, beautiful results. The goal is not just to look better but to feel like the best version of yourself. Come and see us at Orange County Plastic Surgery to explore your options regarding facial rejuvenation.
Female in her late 40’s, with neck bands and early jowling, seen here a year after a face and brow lift by Dr. Bunkis of Orange County Plastic Surgery in Newport Beach. The lower photos show the same patient at age 23 and ten years after her facelift. Almost 40 years later, the skin has aged but her overall facial contour is very similar to that of her youth.
If you want to see if you can have any part of your body improved, contact us for a consultation:
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