Last weekend, Dr. Ekstrom and I had the privilege of attending the LA Opera’s performance of La Bohème—and what a spectacular evening it was. We enjoyed wonderful seats with a perfect view of the stage, allowing us to fully appreciate the remarkable level of talent that graces Los Angeles. The singing was world-class, the orchestra flawless, and the staging powerful enough to make Puccini’s timeless story feel as fresh and moving as ever.

The LA Opera, founded in 1986, may be young compared to the grand houses of Europe, but it has grown into one of America’s most respected opera companies. Over the decades it has attracted some of the world’s leading performers, conductors, and directors. The Dorothy Chandler Pavilion—its home within the Music Center—is an iconic space in its own right, famous not only for its acoustics but also for hosting countless Academy Award ceremonies before the Oscars moved to Hollywood. Sitting there, surrounded by the history and artistry of the venue, you cannot help but feel part of something special.

Evenings like this remind us how fortunate we are to live in Southern California. Within an hour, we can immerse ourselves in world-class music, art, and theater; enjoy professional sports from every major league; or hike along breathtaking coastal cliffs. We can dine at restaurants representing cuisines from around the world, walk on the beach in December, bike along scenic trails, or take a quick drive to the mountains. Few places on earth offer this level of diversity, culture, and natural beauty all in one region.

Our night at the LA Opera was a vivid reminder that life is richest when we embrace these experiences. We encourage you to explore, enjoy, and take full advantage of the incredible opportunities that surround us here in Southern California.

Dr. Ekstrom in the Plaza at Dorothy Chandler Pavilion.

The extremely talented, La Bohème cast taking their final bows.

QUIZ OF THE DAY:

What is the “right age” for facial rejuvenation?
A. Exactly 40
B. Exactly 50
C. Only after 65
D. Any age where health, desire, and readiness align
E. There is a strict upper age limit

Correct answer: D

During a recent TV interview, we were asked a simple but important question: “What is the right time for facial rejuvenation?” Our answer: there is no universal age—only the right time for you.

As we age, most of us encounter a moment when the reflection staring back from the mirror doesn’t match how vibrant, energetic, and youthful we feel inside. That disconnect is often the first sign that someone is ready to consider facial rejuvenation.

The desire for improvement is essential. No one should undergo a cosmetic procedure for someone else’s expectations—only their own. A patient must also be in good general health and able to obtain appropriate medical clearance for any surgical procedure. And, of course, facial rejuvenation is an investment in yourself, so the financial aspect must be thoughtfully considered.

Aside from these factors, there is truly no “right age.” We have helped patients in their 30s and 40s dealing with early facial laxity, baggy eyelids, or skin quality issues. At the same time, we have performed first-time facial rejuvenation procedures for patients in their 80s and 90s, in excellent health, who wanted their appearance to better reflect the vitality they still felt.

One of our favorite stories illustrates this beautifully. A few years ago, Dr. Bunkis performed a first facelift on a 94-year-old gentleman. A few days later, an 86-year-old woman came in for her own facelift. Shortly thereafter, the two of them happened to be sitting in our reception area at the same time. They struck up a conversation, exchanged contact information—and soon began dating!

Whether it’s the right time for facial rejuvenation—or for romance—is entirely personal. If your appearance no longer reflects the person you are inside, it might be the perfect time to explore your options.

Drs. Ekstrom and Bunkis on TV last Thursday.

This 65-year-old female did not like what she was seeing in the mirror but mentally could not accept the possibility of having a facelift. She was bothered by her drooping brows and deflated, sagging face. After consultation, she agreed to and Dr. Ekstrom performed an endoscopic brow lift and a fat transfer to the face. She is thrilled with her rejuvenated new look! (Actual patient of Dr. Deborah Ekstrom of Orange County Plastic Surgery.)

This 60-year-old bald male decided that he wanted an improvement in his appearance. He sought consultation with Newport Beach/Corona Del Mar Facelift surgeon, Dr. Juris Bunkis, regarding his early signs of aging and an imbalance between his nose and chin. He is shown here before and a year after Dr. Bunkis’ Natural A to V facelift, a transblepharoplasty Endotine fixation brow lift, upper and lower blepharoplasties, a closed rhinoplasty and insertion of a large chin implant, all in one four hour procedure. (Actual patient of Dr. Juris Bunkis of Orange County Plastic Surgery.)

This same patient’s lack of hair increased the level of difficulty in planning and redraping the skin as all of the incisions around the ears were placed only on the ears themselves, so as to keep them invisible to others when healed. (Actual patient of Dr. Bunkis.)

This 85 year old, healthy female, who had never had any aesthetic procedures previously, sought consultation with facial rejuvenation surgeon, Dr. Juris Bunkis of Orange County Plastic Surgery, and expressed her dislike of her “angry face”, brow and facial drooping and aging eyes. She is show here before and a year after Dr. Bunkis’ Natural A to V facelift, an endoscopic brow lift and an upper and lower lid blepharoplasty, to give her this rejuvenated look. She was thrilled that she still looked like herself, just a 35-year younger version. (Actual patient of facelift surgeon, Dr. Juris Bunkis.)

Orange County Plastic Surgery at CosmetiCare
1101 Bayside Drive, Suite 200
Corona del Mar, CA 92625

Take the elevator to the second floor (Suite 200) and check in with the front desk for your consultation or follow-up.
Free Parking Available.