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| Throughout
history, art has inspired people to do great things: fall in love, write
great classics of literature, and compose music to last for generations.
Since 1968, Aesthetic Surgical Images has been bringing together the
art and science of cosmetic surgery. The four plastic surgeons: Dr. John Heieck,
MD, Dr. John Edney, MD, Dr. Richard J. Bruneteau, MD, and Dr.
Marie Montag, MD, have been inspired to help create a new look and a
new outlook on life for many people. Each doctor is board certified and
a member of the American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Dr. Montag was inspired by her love of art and her family’s talents in sculpture to enter into the rewarding field of plastic surgery. The Omaha native enjoys the variety that plastic and reconstructive surgery bring to her work. “The fun part is that each case is totally different, and there are so many things we can do to help people. I always knew I’d go into medicine,” says Dr. Montag. “My father and my younger brother are sculptors, and their work inspired me to go into plastics. It’s an artistic and creative way to practice medicine. I knew the other doctors (in the practice) from doing my residency,” says Dr. Montag. “They’re the best group around.” With special training in reconstructive and pediatric plastic surgery, the doctors at Aesthetic Surgical Images have been able to help a wide variety of people, from breast cancer survivors to children with congenital malformations. “Breast cancer is such a common disease,” says Dr. Montag. “Today the majority of women think about reconstructive surgery right away; it used to be only the (rare) patient that had reconstructive surgery.” The doctors work closely with the patient’s cancer doctor to determine the proper reconstruction options for each patient. They also treat children with craniofacial deformities such as cleft lip and/or palate and abnormally shaped heads. “It is so rewarding to know you’ve helped someone overcome a problem,” Dr. Montag says. She enjoys the instant gratification that plastic surgery brings to both the patient and the physician. “We can take care of a major problem and see the results. And most patients are glad and thankful (for what we can do for them).” And while they are well-trained on the reconstructive side of plastic surgery, the doctors are very busy when it comes to elective cosmetic procedures, Dr. Montag says. “This is breast augment season,” she says with a laugh. “People are wondering ‘How am I going to get into my swimsuit and rid of this winter weight?’” Aside from breast enhancements, some of the more popular procedures performed at Aesthetic Surgical Images are liposuction, Botox, and mini face-lifts. The “Mommy-Makeover,” which consists of several procedures (breasts/tummy/body sculpting) done at one time, is becoming a popular option for women who are done having children and want to regain their former, firmer body. “Patients are more sophisticated today. They watch all the makeover shows and know all the options available to them,” says Dr. Montag. Many patients want to get several procedures done at one time. “We work to treat as many areas as we can safely,” she explains. “The concern is with the anesthetic; it is not good to be under for more than four hours.” To alleviate the risk of prolonged anesthesia but maximize the treatment options, the physicians will partner-up and work two at a time on a patient. Dr. Montag says that cosmetic surgery is on the rise. One reason is the popularity of makeover shows. Another reason is the fact that more and more women are in the workforce. “Women feel more confident and competitive when they look and feel their best.” Most of the surgeries are performed in the Surgi-Suite, Aesthetic Surgical Images’ state-licensed and nationally accredited facility. Since the renowned Surgi-Suite first opened in 1992, over 11,000 cosmetic and reconstructive procedures have been performed within the walls of the converted family home once belonging to the owners of Kitty Clover Potato Chips. Another procedure that is becoming more commonplace is the removal of excess skin after major weight loss. “After gastric-bypass surgery, the skin is over-stretched and everything hangs,” says Dr. Montag. “The process is more than just cosmetic; there are so many things to take care of when removing the excess skin.” Since the physician can only operate on a few areas at one time, the process of getting the body back in shape can be a long one consisting of several surgeries. As for the trend in plastic surgery, the doctors of Aesthetic Surgical Images are seeing younger and younger patients walk through the door. “Many people are seeing plastic surgeons earlier and having more preventive and less-invasive procedures done to ward off bigger procedures in the future,” Dr.Montag states. Botox and other fillers that help keep wrinkles at bay are popular choices, as are mini face-lifts. “The results last for about 10 years and allow for a more youthful appearance over time.” Mini face-lifts, also known as “E-lifts” (earlier, easier, and more economical than a full face-lift), provide the desired results without being too dramatic. “These patients would rather have a little surgery now than major surgery later,” Dr. Montag says. For those considering cosmetic surgery, Dr. Montag points out that it is important to make sure your physician is board certified in plastic surgery. Also, your doctor should be properly trained in the treatment you seek. This may seem obvious, but some doctors will advertise that they can perform procedures for which they are not properly trained. “Be sure to ask the physician if the hospital will let him/her perform the same operation in their facility,” warns Dr. Montag. If you are considering reconstructive or cosmetic surgery and would like additional information on the physicians or Aesthetic Surgical Images, call 390-0100 or visit the Web site at www.surgicalimages.com. Aesthetic Surgical Images is located at 8900 W. Dodge Road. |
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