CNN News aired a segment this week on the controversial new breast augmentation method that is gaining ground in Japan and worldwide; stem cell assisted lipotransfer uses a patient’s own fat and cells to successfuly perform breast augmentation.

Dr. Kotaro Yoshimura of Tokyo, appears in support of his method, as well as cancer survivor that was one of his patients. She says “I hope women are able to choose this type of surgery.” According to the news program, clinical trials are underway in America.

Art Caplan is the Director for the center of Bioethics at the University of Pennsylvania. Last summer, Caplan delivered a lecture at the Chautauqua Institution about living longer and enhancing our bodies through the use of advanced medical technology.

Caplan argues against people he calls “new puritans” who present moral objections against the medical technology which enables us to live longer and look better. In reference to cosmetic enhancement, he remarks, “not everybody is reading these scientific advancements with joy.” One person in his audience had spoken of a family member having a face lift, and a younger woman responded with criticism saying, “that’s terrible. It’s unbelievable that you would do that, you should simply accept the changes [of aging] as they come - it’s basically unethical.”

That is the “puritanical” attitude Caplan rejects. Various arguments come from the right wing and the left, with objections to medical technology that are just not convincing, as he would argue.

His argument in favor of embryonic stem cell research is this: we’ve already doubled our lifespan since ancient times. There is no “natural order of things” when it comes to how long we should exist or how good we should look during that time. Stem cell technology need not come from new sources, but embryos that we already use for other purposes.

What we use to repair disease, we can also use to enhance ourselves. There might be whole body rejuvenation, including the mind, with the help of this technology. Skin, organs, hair and everything in between could be enhanced with regenerative cells. Similar things have successfully been done to small organisms. If we fund it now and conquer these frivolous (and perhaps not so frivolous) arguments now, real anti-aging can become a reality.

If you are interested in hearing more about Caplan’s take on anti-aging or you’ve pondered the moral implications of cosmetic surgical enhancement, you should listen to the lecture at Minnesota Public Radio.

If you are unhappy with your large breasts, you may want to consider a breast reduction. According to a recent study in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal, women reported higher self-esteem and reduced lower back pain following surgery to reduce the size of their breasts. Over 150,000 women had breast reduction procedures in 2007.

According to Dr. Alan Gold, president of American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, “This study further demonstrates that the connection between the aesthetic results of plastic surgery and the emotional, social and physical quality of life of our patients cannot be underestimated.”

If you are looking for the best plastic surgeon in Boston to perform your breast reduction surgery, Dr. Samaha is experienced at providing results that please his patients.

Blending artistry, meticulous techniques and a comforting environment

Dr. Fouad Samaha and his talented and caring staff create a personal bond with their patients, delivering a level of service that has earned them outstanding patient loyalty and a practice almost solely dependent on referrals.

“There are emotional as well as physical considerations when advising and caring for a patient. I take everything into account. Yes, I want my patients to look wonderful but I want them to feel wonderful too. I am not just sculpting a face or contouring a body; I am affecting the whole person.”

Dr. Fouad Samaha
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon

What about you? Is this the right time for a change?

If you’ve come to a point in your life when some aspect of your appearance is chipping away at your self-confidence, you are invited to have a consultation with Dr. Samaha who can help you understand all the options open to you and help you decide if this is the right time for change.

Please take a look at the before and after photos of people just like you who wanted to improve their face or body and did. Read some of the testimonials. And then feel free to call for a consultation. Our staff will be happy to answer your questions and find a convenient time for you to visit.