Why Can’t We Just Get Along?
By Drs. Deborah K Ekstrom and Juris Bunkis
As two plastic surgeons who have practiced for nearly 40 years, we’ve certainly had our fair share of debates over the best techniques, approaches to patient care, the future of our field or just life in general. We don’t always agree, but we respect each other deeply and always manage to find common ground. It makes us think of a time in politics when disagreement didn’t mean division.
We often find ourselves reminiscing about the days when Tip O’Neill, the Democratic Speaker of the House, and President Ronald Reagan, a staunch Republican, would sit down together, share a beer, and work through their differences. Though they stood on opposite sides of the political aisle, they understood that working together was essential for the good of the country.
Today, it seems polarization and animosity dominate our political landscape. It is disheartening to see how divided things have become. Yet, as surgeons—and as Americans—we believe that there is far more that unites us than divides us. Both sides of the aisle share common goals: we all want what is best for our country, our families, and our future.
We truly hope that, as a nation, we can come together again. Let us disagree over policies but never forget that we are all Americans, working toward a better future. That is why it is so important to exercise your right to vote. Your vote is your voice, and through it, we can all help shape the direction of our country.
Let us make sure we hold onto that spirit of respectful debate, compromise, and unity. It worked before—it can work again. So, go vote, and let’s come together for the good of the nation.
When to Add a Brow Lift to Periorbital Rejuvenation
By Drs. Deborah Ekstrom and Juris Bunkis
Periorbital rejuvenation—refreshing the area around the eyes—is one of the most sought-after treatments for a more youthful, rested appearance. As experienced plastic surgeons, we focus on four key components when addressing this delicate area: skin texture, lower lid bags, upper lid skin excess and low brows. Each of these requires a tailored solution to achieve optimal results.
First, skin texture issues, such as fine lines and wrinkles, cannot be treated with surgery alone. Resurfacing procedures like chemical peels or laser treatments are necessary to improve skin texture and reduce fine wrinkling. These techniques encourage the regeneration of new skin, providing a smoother, more youthful look.
Second, lower lid bags may be another common concern. These can be removed through two approaches: an incision just below the lash line (which is ideal if skin needs to be removed as well) or an incision inside the eyelid, known as a transconjunctival approach. The latter technique leaves no external scar, making it a discreet option for many patients.
Third, excess upper lid skin can be addressed with an upper lid blepharoplasty, which removes the redundant skin and restores a more open, alert appearance to the eyes. However, this procedure alone does not affect the brow position or the distance between the eyebrows and the lashes if lashes are almost touching the brows, you may wish to consider a brow lift as well.
Lastly, for those with sagging brows, addressing both upper lid skin and the brow position may offer the best results. A brow lift, performed in conjunction with upper eyelid surgery, raises the brows to a more youthful position, enhancing the distance between the brow and lash line for a truly refreshed look.
Combining these individualized approaches ensures that we achieve natural, long-lasting results that align with each patient’s unique facial anatomy.
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