It is projected that one in every eight women runs the risk of developing breast cancer during her lifetime.  There are multiple elements that take part in a woman’s risk such as lifestyle, hereditary and dietary factors.  “Breast cancer can be prevented as well as controlled by taking on healthy habits like reducing alcohol consumption, controlling weight, breast feeding, avoiding exposure to polluting and radical elements as well as following a healthy diet plan,” according to www.myhealthtips.com.  There are various “super” foods that can supposedly help fight breast cancer. 
 
Spinach: It’s enriched with numerous components, including carotenoids and zeaxanthin, which aid in removing unstable molecules from your body. 
Tomatoes: Tomatoes contain many beneficial properties.  Lycopene, a powerful antioxidant found in tomatoes, allegedly helps prevent breast cancer development. 
Salmon: The different types of omega-3 fatty acids and other nutritional components found in salmon supposedly help prolong the growth of cancerous tumors.
Garlic: Sulfur compounds found in garlic can aid in accelerating the repair of DNA. 
Pomegranate Juice: One of the components in pomegranate juice is polyphenol, a form of ellagic acid that is known for its antioxidant attributes, which can allegedly hamper the emergence of cancer cells.

            Dr. Shaw performs many different types of breast procedures and revisions.  If you would like more information or to schedule a consultation, contact the SHAW Center at (480) 767-1900.
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            According to a recent study done by Triumph, a Swiss lingerie company, an alarming amount of women are choosing their bras wrong.  Their international survey of 10,000 women discovered that 64 percent are wearing the wrong size bra, reports Women’s Wear Daily.  What is more staggering is that out of those women, 29 percent know that they are wearing the incorrect size.
            The proper bra can drastically alter how clothes look and the way you feel.  We’re sure that many women are unsure of what to look for when bra shopping so we have some tips on what to know. 
            Since bras have a large impact on how clothes look, it is best to invest.  “A good bra can leave a serious dent in your wallet, and since you’re not supposed to wear the same one every day, they can become a large expense.  But visiting your local retailer for a fitting is typically free and can equip you with your proper measurements,” according to www.huffingtonpost.com.  When purchasing a bra, go to a store that has an array of bras as well as trained bra fitters available.  The bra fitters should be able to guide you in the right direction, however, a general rule of thumb is to measure your band size and then cup size to calculate your actual bra size. 
When taking your measurements make sure that you are wearing and unpadded bra.  To measure your band size, use a measuring tape and measure directly under your bust after dismissing air from your lungs because you want this measurement to be as small as possible.  If you are in between a number, round up to the closest whole number.  To measure your cup size, stand up straight leaving your arms directly at your sides and measure the fullest portion of your bust, round up to the nearest whole number as well.  Once you have your band and cup size measurement, subtract the band measurement from your cup measurement.  Revert to this chart to discover what your bra size is with your measurements.
            If you’re dissatisfied with the outcome of your size, do not become discouraged.  Be open minded and understand that the fit of the bra is more important than what the size of it is.  If you come across a bra that you love but your size is unavailable, you can typically go up one band size and down a cup size or vice versa in order to find the right fit.  Regardless of what type of bra you have, the best way to get longevity out of them is to treat them with proper care.  It is ideal to hand wash your bras but if you would rather toss it in the washing machine, utilizing a garment bag will protect it.  Once your bra comes out of the wash never put it in the dryer, let it hang to dry.   
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            All procedures provided at the Shaw Center are performed in a customized, professional and innovative office environment.  There are a few steps that a patient experiences in order to receive a procedure.  These steps include a consultation, pre-surgical preparation, surgery and post-surgical care that are all provided in a skillful and attentive manner.
            Prior to any cosmetic procedure a consultation with Dr. Shaw is done for a small fee, all spa consultations are complimentary.  Consultations give patients sufficient time with Dr. Shaw and his staff for an in-depth evaluation based on the patient’s concerns.  Understanding the patient’s goals, determining what is best for the patient, and educating the patient about the procedure and recovery are the primary focal points of the consultation.  Any and all questions the patient has will be thoroughly answered throughout the consultation as well.
            A preoperative preparation presents in-depth tailored instruction, photography and a detailed discussion with Dr. Shaw and the staff.  All procedures aside from treatments in the spa are performed in Hospital based and fully accredited Outpatient Ambulatory Surgical Facilities.  The majority of the procedures are done using general anesthesia.  In order to strengthen safety and reduce risk, a board-certified anesthesiologist administers the anesthesia and monitors you during the procedure. 
            All post surgical care is fulfilled through an outpatient bases or inpatient at the Piper Ambulatory Surgery Center.  Our staff will contact you in person or by phone and are available for any issues, questions or concerns 24/7. 
            If you are unable to make an appointment, please contact us with at least 24 hours advanced notice in order for us to give your appointment to another patient if possible.  The Shaw Center accepts the following forms of payment: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Cashier’s check, money order or personal check.  We also accept patient financing through Care Credit.
            If you are interested in scheduling a consultation or would like more information, call the Shaw Center at (480) 767-1900.
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            Women’s breasts are naturally slightly unbalanced due to the heart being on the left side of the body, however, some women may experience severe disproportion, a condition referred to as asymmetry.  Breast asymmetry is considered any difference in form, position or volume of the breast and it impacts more than half of all women. 
            A woman’s breasts may be asymmetrical naturally or become asymmetrical after a breast augmentation.  If the breasts have a difference of one bra cup size or more, this can result in psychological distress.  “In the rare instance that the asymmetry causes such distress that your doctor recommends surgery, talk to the surgeon about breast reduction, rather than implants.  Studies find that women with asymmetry who undergo reduction are generally more satisfied than those who have implants,” according to www.healthywomen.org. 
            If you experience asymmetrical breasts due to a breast augmentation, a large portion of Dr. Shaw’s practice is dedicated to breast implant revisions, which are specialized procedures designed to improve the results of the previous breast surgery.  Dr. Shaw is considered a national leader in revision breast augmentation by utilizing advanced corrective techniques to improve breast size, shape, symmetry, and feel.
            The most common procedures involved in a breast revision are an implant exchange, capsulectomy/capsulotomy, or a capsulorrhaphy.  Dr. Shaw uses his own techniques to make drastic improvements in these challenging cases.  Since each case is unique, Dr. Shaw constructs a tailored plan to meet each patient’s specific needs and goals.  If you are interested in correcting breast asymmetry, contact the Shaw Center at (480) 767-1900 to schedule a consultation.
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            Considering plastic surgery but worried about the financial burden?  You can receive your procedure faster than you think!  The Shaw Center accepts CareCredit, a financing option for health, beauty, and wellness expenses.
            CareCredit is the nation’s leading healthcare credit card that allows you to choose between special financing options when you use their card for $200 or more.  You can apply online and will receive a response almost immediately.  CareCredit is a part of GE Capital and they securely submit your application to GE Capital Retail Bank.  Once you are approved, you are able to start treatment prior to receiving your CareCredit healthcare credit card.
            CareCredit doesn’t have to be used strictly for invasive procedures; you can utilize it for non-surgical or dermatologic treatments such as the services provided in the Shaw Center Spa.  As long as you have credit available on your card, you can use it as much as you like for maintenance procedures such as Botox or Restalyne injections that you receive multiple times a year.  CareCredit also allows you to pay for multiple procedures at one time.
            Once you use your CareCredit card for transactions over $200, you have the ability to select a special financing option that works best for you.  Special financing options range form 6 to 24 months.  Longer-term plans for up to 60 months are also available.  In order to make CareCredit successful for you, here are some suggestions to control your credit card: pay on time, never miss a payment, pay more than the minimum, pay off your balance in full every month, check your monthly statement, and preserve a moderate “debt-to-income ratio.”
            If you are interested in CareCredit, contact the Shaw Center at (480) 767-1900 for more details or apply online today! 
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            Once your appointment is booked for your procedure, it is important to properly prepare not only for your actual surgery but for your recovery time as well.  Before booking your surgery it is crucial that you are fully satisfied with your decision in order to avoid apprehension and nervousness.  We have a few suggestions to make sure you are organized for a speedy recovery!
            Prior to your procedure, Dr. Shaw will give you brochures and information regarding your procedure and what to expect.  Read up on as much as you can and don’t be afraid to ask him any questions you may have to better prepare yourself.  It is best to have someone close to you be there for support once you initially come out of surgery and plan on taking you home.  If they can be around you for a few days following the procedure in order to help take care of you, even better!
            Properly prepare your home for your return from surgery.  Make sure you stock up on healthy food, plenty of pillows, magazines, movies and essential ice packs.  You can fill your prescription for any medication you may need beforehand so it is readily available once you are back at home.  
            It is very common to feel some doubts the night before surgery, which is normal.  Lack of sleep and high blood pressure may come as a result; try some deep breathing or meditation techniques in order to calm yourself down or watch a funny movie to help relax.  Once you are back at home, take it easy, soon enough you will be able to enjoy the benefits of your procedure!   
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            Generally speaking, the majority of woman are dissatisfied with their breast size and are typically opting to have a breast augmentation to increase their proportion, however, there are women that wish to do just the opposite.  Overly large breasts can cause a lot of pain and discomfort for women, among other issues.  If you are considering having a breast reduction, we have multiple reasons why you should follow through!
            Breast reductions are performed in order to alter the size, firmness, weight and shape of breasts.  Sizable breasts can cause discomfort to women due to their weight, creating back and neck pain, issues with posture and skin irritation.  Since large breasts are so heavy, bra straps can cause uncomfortable indentations in patient’s shoulders because of their weight.  Women with large breasts can have restrictions when it comes to sports, activities and certain exercises because it is painful and unpleasant. 
            Aside from physical discomfort, women who have large breasts may feel embarrassed when their breasts are disproportionate to the rest of their body and lack confidence.  It may be difficult to find clothing that fits their breasts along with the rest of their body and feel unnecessary exposure when in a bathing suit.       
            Opting for a breast reduction can make breasts appear smaller, more proportioned, and lighter, relieving physical discomfort and pain.  The outcome of a breast reduction is permanent but the breasts have potential to become larger due to pregnancy, weight loss and weight gain.  Generally, insurance companies will cover the cost of the procedure if it is due to medical reasons such as relief of back pain and skin issues. 
            If these symptoms and issues sound like your situation, contact the Shaw Center at (480) 767-1900 for a consultation to see if the procedure is right for you!
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            With the New Year right around the corner, it’s time to start thinking of your resolutions and ways you wish to improve.  Have you always considered plastic surgery?  You’re not the only one!  According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, 14.6 million cosmetic plastic surgery procedures were performed in the U.S. last year.  We have compiled a list of great reason on why you should contemplate going under the knife or having cosmetic procedures. 
            Reconstructive surgery is a great option for those that have insecurities due to scarring or defects.  Accidents can cause disfiguration or scarring that reconstructive surgery can help reduce and eliminate.  Birth defects like cleft lips and ear deformities can be repaired to a standard image through a sequence of surgeries as the person grows.  The majority of women who have undergone a mastectomy turn to reconstructive surgery in order to relieve psychological pain.  
            For those that have undergone a major weight loss, plastic surgery is a great alternative to remove excess skin that you are unable to lose.  One of the most common reasons to get plastic surgery is for your own self-esteem and image.  If you have certain insecurities, plastic surgery will help boost your self-confidence and make you feel better about yourself!
            If you are not ready to commit to plastic surgery, there are many non-invasive treatments, procedures and products that The Shaw Center offers that still produce noticeable results.  Products like Botox can be used to enhance your appearance and can also be used for medical reasons such as reducing migraines and sweating. 
According to Before After Surgery Toolbox, the top ten reasons people give for having plastic surgery are to turn back the hands of time, look like a beauty, not a beast, look smokin’ hot (sometimes like a person one admires), erase mistakes (like scars due to an overzealous sense of immortality), get rid of too much “me,” make more of “me” in the right places, to make my partner happy (wrong reason), to fix what’s broken (reconstructive surgery), to make sex better (because I’ll look and feel sexier), and to be happy with my looks (comfortable in my own skin.) 
            Whatever your reasoning may be for plastic surgery, schedule a consultation with Dr. Shaw at (480) 767-1900 in order to discuss your options and improve yourself for the New Year.  We wish everyone a very happy New Year! 

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