Memorial Day is More than First Weekend of Summer
By Dr. Juris Bunkis
Honorary Consul, Republic of Latvia in Southern California
Orange County Plastic Surgery, Corona del Mar/Newport Beach
As Americans gather this Memorial Day weekend for family gatherings, beach outings, parades, and backyard barbeques, it is important to pause and reflect on the true meaning of the holiday. Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday of May, is a federal holiday dedicated to honoring and mourning the men and women of the United States Armed Forces who gave their lives while serving our country.
There is often confusion between Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Veterans Day honors all who have served in the military, both living and deceased. Memorial Day is more solemn in nature, specifically remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. The freedoms we enjoy daily were preserved by brave individuals willing to risk everything for causes greater than themselves. Their courage and sacrifice deserve our deepest gratitude.
Over time, Memorial Day has also become the unofficial start of summer for many Americans. Families reunite, grills come out, beaches become crowded, and communities hold parades and celebrations. There is nothing wrong with enjoying these traditions. In fact, gathering with loved ones and appreciating the freedoms we have is, in many ways, a tribute to those who sacrificed so much to protect them.
We were no different this year. Dr. Ekstrom’s son, Tom, arrived from Santa Barbara with the grandchildren, and our home quickly became wonderfully energetic and noisy in the best possible way. Much of the weekend revolved around the swimming pool, where the grandchildren spent endless hours splashing, laughing, and inventing games only children can fully understand. Between pool time and family meals, we enjoyed several barbeques and appreciated the beautiful Southern California weather that makes this region such a special place to live.e.
One particularly enjoyable day was spent at the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach. Watching the grandchildren marvel at jellyfish, sharks, sea otters, and colorful tropical fish reminded us how exciting discovery can be through a child’s eyes. The aquarium remains one of Southern California’s true treasures for families.
As we enjoyed our holiday weekend, we also took time to remember the reason for Memorial Day. Across cemeteries here and around the world rest brave Americans who never returned home to their families. Their sacrifice allows us to enjoy simple pleasures like family gatherings, freedom of movement, and peaceful weekends together.
We hope all of our patients and friends had a safe and meaningful Memorial Day weekend, balancing celebration with remembrance.
Improving the Upper Eyelid and Brow Region
By Dr. Deborah Ekstrom
Orange County Plastic Surgery, Corona del Mar/Newport Beach
Quiz: Which of the following is NOT one of the three major factors determining the appearance of the upper eyelid and brow region?
A. Brow position
B. Excess upper eyelid skin
C. Skin texture around the eyes
D. Ear lobe size
E. Fat volume around the orbit
Correct Answer: D. Ear lobe size
The upper eyelid and brow region play an enormous role in how rested, youthful, and energetic we appear. Patients often come to our office saying they look tired, angry, or older than they feel, but the causes can vary considerably. Successful rejuvenation depends upon correctly identifying the specific factors contributing to the aging appearance.
There are three major components we evaluate when assessing the upper eyelid and brow complex.
1. Brow Position
As we age, the brow often descends. This decreases the distance between the eyebrows and the eyelashes, creating a heavy or tired appearance. Some patients unconsciously compensate by constantly raising their forehead muscles, which can produce deep forehead wrinkles and fatigue.
When brow descent is a significant contributor, a brow lift may be the best solution. Today, we most commonly perform endoscopic brow lifts using several very small incisions hidden behind the hairline. Through these tiny incisions, the brow can be elevated to a more youthful position with less scarring and quicker recovery compared with older open techniques. Open excisional brow lifts are now performed much less frequently.
2. Excess Upper Eyelid Skin
Many patients primarily suffer from excess skin of the upper eyelids themselves. This loose skin may create hooding, interfere with makeup application, or even impair peripheral vision.
In these situations, an upper blepharoplasty — removal of excess eyelid skin — can provide dramatic improvement. The incision is carefully hidden within the natural eyelid crease, typically healing very inconspicuously. In some patients, a small amount of protruding fat may also be adjusted during surgery.
It is important to distinguish between a low brow and excess eyelid skin because removing eyelid skin alone will not properly correct a descended brow.
3. Skin Texture and Quality
Even after brow position and excess skin are corrected, the skin around the eyes may still appear wrinkled, crepey, or sun damaged. The thin periorbital skin is especially vulnerable to aging and sun exposure.
To improve skin texture, procedures such as chemical peels or laser resurfacing can be very effective. These treatments help tighten the skin surface, improve pigmentation irregularities, and soften fine wrinkles around the eyes.
Often, the best results come from combining procedures. For example, a patient may benefit from an endoscopic brow lift, upper eyelid skin excision, and laser resurfacing together. Each addresses a different aspect of aging in the upper face.
The key is individualized treatment planning. At Orange County Plastic Surgery, we carefully evaluate all three components to help patients achieve natural, refreshed results rather than an overdone appearance.
If you have any concerns regarding your appearance, it may be time to see Dr. Ekstrom for a consultation to go over your options and come up with a plan to help you.
This 51-year-old weathered female sought consultation with Dr. Deborah Ekstrom of Orange County Plastic Surgery in Corona del Mar with regards to the appearance of her upper eyelids and eyebrows. She dislikes the hooding of her brows and the upper lid skin laxity. She is shown here before and after an upper lid blepharoplasty and endoscopic brow lift with Endotine® fixation. Yes, she could have used a chemical peel or laser resurfacing of her entire face, but could not promise to stay out of the sun in the future, making this procedure less effective. She is extremely happy with her results from the brow lift and upper lid blepharoplasty! (Actual patient of Dr. Deborah Ekstrom.)
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.
