The Surgical Artist's Blog

I just returned home from a speaking event in the mile high city where I presented my latest techniques for facial rejuvenation and laser body sculpting. I spoke to a group of surgeons in Denver who are interested in adding Smartlipo and the Affirm fractional CO2 laser to their practices. The highlight of the discussion centered around my use of both the Smartlipo laser and Affirm CO2 laser in combination for facial rejuvenation. One of the facial plastic surgeons there is involved in a laser face lift study similar to mine and we shared tips and techniques that will make us both better at using the technology for the benefit of our patients. It was a quick trip but well worth the time mainly because I get to meet other cosmetic, plastic and facial plastic surgeons across the United States who also pursue the latest technology and techniques to advance our field. I'm looking forward to the annual meeting of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgeons (AACS) in Phoenix in January!

We had a advanced laser training with Syneron/Candela in our office on Friday, and it exceeded my expectations! The staff at Southern Surgical Arts received hands-on, private training from the experts at Syneron/Candela. We learned advanced techniques on many of the lasers we use everyday for laser hair removal and rejuvenation.  And, we also learned about skin tightening for the face and body (like the knees), vein reduction and stretch mark reduction.  This advanced training helps us to provide our patients the results they are looking for!  We have the laser technology, the training, and the staff at Southern Surgical Arts.   ~  Nicole, RN

Dr. Nease is a Double-Board Certified Cosmetic Surgeon. What does that mean? That means that his practice is 100% commited, focused, dedicated to cosmetic surgery. He does nothing else but Face & Neck Lifts, Cosmetic Breast Surgery, Tummy Tucks, Liposuction and SmartLipo, Mommy Makeovers and a few other cosmetic surgeries that can enhance your body and your life.

During Dr. Nease's cosmetic surgery fellowship four years ago, he performed more than 700 cosmetic surgeries in his training year alone. Since then, Dr. Nease has focused his practice at Southern Surgical Arts around the latest laser technology to bring the patients of North Georgia and Chattanooga a cosmetic surgery practice dedicated to experience and excellence. After more than 3,500 cosmetic surgery cases, 2 Best of the Best Awards, 2 Reader's Choice Awards and many happy patients in the Before and After Gallery, we invite you to call for a complimentary consultation.

Over the last two years, Dr. Nease and Southern Surgical Arts have been dedicated to our community. In 2009 and 2010, we have donated to various worthy charities totaling more than $25,000 each year! We believe that there are some things in life that are worth standing for: Healthcare, Education, Community, Children, Animals and Character. Let us know if you would like to partner with us in advancing great causes in our communities. We'll stand with you.

We have been working with our bank and builder to get the new location on Cowart Street going. And, our delay has been the comparable real estate appraisals in downtown Chattanooga. So, while we wait for the market to turn around, we are negotiating for temporary space in beautiful, historic Main Street. We believe in the revitalization of Main Street, and we hope to open shortly after the New Year. Watch for our progress. We'll keep you posted, so you can join in our excitement.

Vince Gardner, MD, our first Cosmetic Surgery training fellow, has adjusted well to the fast-paced program at Southern Surgical Arts. He continues to research the data and presentation of Dr. Nease's
Laser Face Lift Study which was a clinical study for facial rejuvenation and advanced face lifting techniques using two lasers in combination. This technique is cutting edge technology with the goal of minimizing downtime and scarring while achieving naturally youthful results. Drs. Nease and Gardner will present their findings at the 27th Annual Scientific Meeting of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery in Phoenix, Arizona this January. Initial patient experience to the study has been positive and Dr. Nease has been pleased with the results. Statistical analysis is pending. 

We'll update you on both the new Chattanooga location and the results of the Laser Face Lift study very soon! ~ Pam

For all of you Dysport fans, we just found out that Dysport is offering a $50 rebate until December 31st. Dysport is the new Botox and was recently FDA-approved for the treatment of facial lines and wrinkles. It works by relaxing the facial muscles that pull on the skin creating crows feet and lines on the brow. In fact, there was a recent study that found Dysport offers a significant efficacy advantage over the well-established Botox Cosmetic for treating crow's feet. Click here to read more information about the study... And, then call our office to take advantage of the $50 Rebate! ~ Pam

Congratulations Dr. Nease and Southern Surgical Arts Staff for winning Best Cosmetic Surgeon in Chattanooga two years in a row! More than 18,000 people voted!

Dysport! We are so excited to offer a new competitor to Botox. This is a fabulous product that is gaining popularity. They are
offering a 75$ rebate for your treatment, which makes it even more exciting. I have used it, and I love it!
~ Jennifer, RN, BSN

We recently had a patient who was interested in having fuller, more noticeable lips. She has had fillers, such as Juvederm, in the past. She liked her results with the filler, but it only lasted about a year. She wanted something permanent, something she wouldn't have to come back and have redone down the road. She asked if we had something to accomplish her goal. And guess what......we did.

Dr. Nease recommended lip augmentation with a new, state-of-the-art silicone lip implant. It is a straightforward procedure and can be done using local and light sedation. The implant is made of high grade silicone and is designed to last. Once placed, that's it. No more yearly trips to have your lips reinjected.

The patient had the implant placed. At her one week followup visit she was thrilled with her new look. She still had some minimal swelling, but the overall look was subtle but very nice. ~ Dr. Gardner

Things are progressing for our new Cosmetic Surgery Center in Downtown Chattanooga, and we are weeks away from breaking ground. Just last Thursday, we hosted an Open House at our architect's office, HK architects, for area realtors and anyone interested in knowing more about the project. We had final drawings, artist renderings, display boards, and food and wine on hand for all to enjoy the excitement.

And, just today, the Chattanooga Times Free Press ran the story about me passing my third board exam given last month by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. It's an exciting time at Southern Surgical Arts! I'm looking forward to establishing our new state-of-the-art surgery center in the Southside District of Chattanooga in 10 to 12 months and becoming an active member of the community.

Stay tuned for more updates and announcements of the groundbreaking later this month.