In recent years, the allure of cosmetic procedures has captivated many, particularly women who seek to enhance their natural beauty and boost their confidence. However, a troubling incident in New Mexico serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of choosing a reputable treatment center. In 2018, a series of HIV infections were linked to an unlicensed cosmetic surgery facility, raising serious concerns about patient safety and the standards of care in the aesthetic industry.

The New Mexico outbreak revealed that several patients who underwent procedures at an unlicensed clinic tested positive for HIV due to unsafe practices. Investigations found that the facility was reusing needles and failing to properly sterilize surgical instruments. As health officials scrambled to contain the outbreak, the incident highlighted a shocking reality: not all treatment centers adhere to the strict health and safety standards that patients deserve.

This incident underscores the importance of due diligence when selecting a cosmetic treatment facility. For women who invest in their appearance and well-being, understanding the risks associated with unregulated clinics is crucial.

1. Safety First
   The primary concern in any medical procedure is safety. An unlicensed facility can put patients at risk for not only infections but also complications from poorly performed procedures. Ensure that the clinic you choose is licensed and adheres to local and national health regulations. Look for certifications and accreditations that demonstrate the facility’s commitment to patient safety.
2. Qualified Professionals
   The expertise of the practitioners performing cosmetic procedures is paramount. Opt for board-certified plastic surgeons or dermatologists with a proven track record in their respective fields. Research their credentials, experience, and patient reviews. A qualified professional will prioritize your safety and provide the best possible outcomes.
3. Transparent Practices
   A reputable treatment center should be transparent about its practices. During your consultation, ask questions about sterilization protocols, the use of equipment, and the steps taken to ensure patient safety. A facility that prioritizes transparency will help you feel more comfortable and informed about your treatment.
4. Patient Reviews and Testimonials
   Seek out patient reviews and testimonials to gain insight into the experiences of others. Online platforms and social media can be valuable resources for assessing the reputation of a treatment center. Pay attention to both positive and negative feedback to form a well-rounded view of the facility.
5. Ongoing Support and Aftercare
   A comprehensive treatment experience doesn’t end once the procedure is completed. Ensure that the clinic offers robust aftercare support and follow-up appointments. This support is crucial for monitoring recovery and addressing any potential complications that may arise post-treatment.

Investing in cosmetic procedures is not just a financial commitment; it’s an investment in your well-being. The New Mexico outbreak serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us that cutting corners in the search for beauty can lead to devastating consequences. For upper-middle-class women who are sophisticated in skincare and well-informed about cosmetic treatments, the importance of choosing a reputable and licensed facility cannot be overstated.

In the pursuit of beauty, knowledge is power. As you consider cosmetic treatments, take the time to research and choose your treatment center wisely. Prioritize safety, seek out qualified professionals, and demand transparency in all practices. By doing so, you can ensure that your journey toward enhancing your appearance is not only successful but also safe.

Stay informed, stay empowered, and always prioritize your health and safety in your quest for beauty.

Our aesthetician at our Salisbury Plastic Surgery office, Sonia, doing a microneedling procedure on a scar – using strict sterility precautions AND disposable needles to insure patient safety.

As a plastic surgeon with 40 years of experience, facial rejuvenation has become one of the most rewarding and transformative procedures I perform. Over the years, I have done thousands of facelifts, and while each patient is unique, there is one nearly universal concern of patients before surgery: “I am afraid of looking overdone?”
My approach to facial rejuvenation centers on restoring your youthful appearance, not creating an artificial or pulled look. The key to a successful facelift is addressing the deeper layers of the face, particularly the underlying SMAS layer and platysma muscles. Over time, these muscles loosen and shift, and my role is to reposition them to where they were in your younger years. This restores a natural contour and firmness, without creating tension on the skin.
Once the deeper structures are corrected, I carefully remove excess skin. It’s essential to never simply pull the skin tight; this can lead to an unnatural look. Instead, by tightening the muscles and resecting just the right amount of skin, we can achieve a refreshed, youthful appearance.

A good rule of thumb after a facelift is that you’ll look about 15 years younger. You will continue to age naturally after your facelift, but that youthful boost will remain, meaning you should always look about 15 years younger than your actual age moving forward.

My goal is to give you confidence in your appearance, enhancing your features in a way that looks and feels entirely natural—so no one knows you have had surgery, only that you look vibrant and refreshed.

This patient in her late 50’s, did not like what she was seeing in the mirror. She was petrified about “looking done”. After a thorough discussion of anatomical features and surgical options, she chose to undergo a facelift procedure in conjunction with a lower lid blepharoplasty, which turned the clock back to how she had looked about 15 years previously.

Procedure performed by Juris Bunkis, MD, FACS.

We want you to feel as good as you look. We are currently offering free bioidentical hormone pelleting to all of our facelift patients – to allow them to feel as good as they look after surgery!