Journal of Craniofacial Surgery Publication

I am honored to be published in the Journal of Craniofacial Surgery with surgeons who are pioneers and leaders in the field. It is a great and unique opportunity to be able to contribute to Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery research with one of my greatest mentors in the field, Dr. Malcolm A. Lesavoy.

Facial Trauma: Cards from Family Members

Facial trauma and facial fractures are surgical procedures I enjoy, as I find the anatomy fascinating and I enjoy continually trying to improve ways in which to conceal scars. The one aspect that I appreciate the most about my profession, are cards or testimonials that I receive from patients or their family members.

This nice family member writes:

"I want to thank you for your kindness, generosity and most of all for taking care of my brother this past week.

Having unexpected surgery is always a little unsettling, but your demeanor, dedication, and expertise made my family and I feel very comfortable and confident in you. Right from the start we knew we were in great hands.

We will be forever thankful to you and there will always be a piece in our hearts that will remind us of you very fondly.

Thank You. Thank You. Thank You"

Cards such as these are one of the highest compliments that I could ever receive and I am truly touched.

As my career advances, I find more similarity between reconstructive and aesthetic surgery. Both disciplines require a well thought out operative plan, a thorough knowledge of the anatomy, and conscientious and careful patient follow-up. I am very thankful to have had excellent training.

Brian P. Dickinson, M.D.

Secondary Mastopexy Augmentation/Reductions

More frequently, I am seeing patients in my office who have had large implants for quite some time and now want their implants exchanged for smaller implants and would also like their breasts lifted. These operations are typically challenging. As one reduces the size of the breast or changes the shape of the breast, it is important to respect the blood supply of the nipple areola complex.

For example, this patient had a prior mastopexy augmentation via a superior crescent mastopexy augmentation incision in the submuscular position. Therefore, one needs to be cognizant of the remaining blood supply when attempting to raise the nipple areola complex.

This patient underwent bilateral capsulectomy, bilateral removal and replacement of saline implants for Mentor smooth round high profile silicone gel implants, and mastopexy via an oblique pattern.

I have found that the vertical, oblique, and helium balloon pattern mastopexy (described by Dr. Ed Pechter of Valencia, California) to provide excellent projection while removing excess skin. I have found that many women appreciate the breast projection that these patterns in combination with the high profile implant provide.