Jacksonville Plastic Surgery and Cosmetic Surgery Blog by Dr. Lewis Obi

THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF PLASTIC SURGEONS 75TH ANNIVERSARY

2012-01-30T11:32:00.016-05:00

"ANYONE CAN WEAR A WHITE COAT, Not everyone is board certified in plastic surgery. Do your homework."

As Dr. Lewis Obi was flying to Los Angeles aboard Delta Airlines last week, he happened to see a full page public information bulletin in Delta's SKY magazine.

What is so unique is that out of approximately 750,000 physicians in the United States, there are only 8119 board certified plastic surgeons. This year plastic surgeons are celebrating the 75th anniversary of the American Board of plastic surgery. This website has this published a notice:

75th Anniversary of the ASPS
1937 - 2012
Recognizing with honor the 8119 Diplomates who have achieved
board certification in plastic surgery
&
75 years of executing the Board's mission to promote safe, ethical, efficacious plastic surgery to the public by maintaining high standards for the education, examination, certification and maintenance of certification of plastic surgeons
as specialists and subspecialists.

For Dr. Lewis Obi's decades of maintaining these

high standards he is proud to exhibit the logo of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons

FIT AT ANY AGE - DR LEWIS OBI’S FORMULA

2012-01-23T07:56:00.020-05:00

>> Click for larger version of image

The following is the basic routine of Dr. Lewis Obi who has been featured in publications not only because of his international fame as a plastic surgeon, but because of his rather unique life style. He is currently testing for his second degree black belt in karate with master Sensei Michael who has been Dr Obi’s personal trainer for nine years. At age 45 he achieved a black belt level in Tang Soo Do with Master Larry Jones and while in the Marine Corps he also engaged in the martial arts while in Korea. Most recently, Dr. Lewis Obi was featured in The Resident Community News under the caption “FIT AT ANY AGE” where they misquoted his age. This year Dr. Obi will celebrate an unknown anniversary number of his 49th birthday. The following nutritional vitamin and supplement recommendations, should be monitored by your personal physicians and nutritional experts. Dr. Lewis Obi’s work, exercise and sleep routine is not recommended for anyone over the age of 25. Since childhood, Dr. Obi has required very little sleep and continues to work out physically almost every day (5 days in a dojo or gym and week-ends with his six year old son).

NUTRITION, VITAMINS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Depending on body weight, 8 to 12 glasses of water a day is very important for internal health and is also the best source of skin moisturization. All water supply should be from a safe source. Never cook with plastic ware and water bottles should all have a number 1,2 or 5 rating (enclosed in a triangle at the bottom of the bottle). In general carbs and sweets should be largely eliminated from the diet (cola soft drinks also contain phosphates which may diminish bone density). Six or more servings of organic fruits and vegetables a day is recommended. The best source of protein includes a combination of poultry, safe fish, eggs, nuts and lentils (all organic). The only safe fish in my opinion is wild Alaskan Salmon. An occasional organic beef or pork meal may be ingested once a week. Many large food chains like Publix and Whole Foods Market feature a large selection of organic foods of high quality and a lower cost.

Most vitamins and supplements may be purchased from a safe domestic source such as Puritan's Pride based in Oakdale, N.Y.: www.puritan.com or 1-800-645-1030. Periodically Puritan Pride will run specials with 3 bottles for the price of one. Otherwise purchase vitamins and supplements at an organic food outlet (eg. “Native Sun” in Jacksonville or “Whole Foods” nationally). Only pharmaceutical grade fish oil should be consumed and the best sources include Barry Sears Omega Zone, Nordic or Kirkland’s supplied in 500 mg and 1000 mg. Drug store fish oils may contain heavy metals and other contaminants found in non organic fish. To avoid a “fishy” taste after ingestion store the fish oil capsules in a freezer and take just before meals. The frozen fish oil capsules will not release until they pass through the stomach into the duodenum. 2000 to 4000 mg a day is recommended but avoiding an end point resulting in diarrhea and/or a “fishy” odor to the skin.

Click the below site for the “Top 10 foods for 2010” and add organic Kefir to the list. Kefir is a probiotic containing 10 essential bacterial cultures important for both Gi and systemic health. Kefir is like a smoothie and comes in different flavors. 4 ounces with a half pint of organic strawberries or blueberries is a good addition to breakfast. Be sure to read and “digest” the below list of the top ten foods. Last but not least is vitamin D-3 and it will astound you at all the benefits this one vitamin will provide you and your family with. Your skin produces vitamin D-3 in the sun but unfortunately UV exposure accelerates aging, increases the incidence of skin cancers and is directly related to cataracts.

http://lifestyle.ca.msn.com/health-fitness/diet/ee-gallery.aspx?cp-documentid=23040351

Since 2010, Dr. Obi has added at least a dozen additional supplements. After arising at 3:30 a.m. he completes his morning routine with meditation and a vigorous work out. His first meal is at 7 a.m. and followed by small organic meals at 10, 12 and 2. His last meal in the evening is at 6:30 and consists primarily of organic vegetables. The vitamins and supplements are therefore divided into four separate sections. Fiber is provided by psyllium (metamucil™) twice a day as well as an Italian five grain wheat bread.

Vitamins and supplements:

Puritan's Pride B-150 - multivitamins with no minerals (avoid supplemental copper as most diets contain ample copper. Excess copper is not excreted by the body and may combine with trans fats leading to plaques in blood vessels).

Ester C - 1000 to 3000 mg per day - large amounts of ascorbic acid can cause kidney stones whereas the ester form will not acidify the urine.

Vitamin D-3 (cholecalciferol) - minimum of 5000 units per day - very important in the prevention of breast cancer, heart disease, MS and many other diseases. D-3 blood testing is recommended.

Vitamin E - 1000 units per day for women. Not recommended in men since recent studies indicate that supplemental vitamin E may increase the risk of prostate cancer.

Calcium/Magnesium for women (dosage based on body weight and age)

*Recently my good friend Arthur Thornton informed me of a MIT study where Magnesium-L-Threonate (found in leafy vegetables, etc) was very important for brain power improving both short and long term memory and perhaps protecting against Alzheimers disease. 400 mg a day is recommended for most patients.

Zinc piconelate 25 mg per day Chelated Molydium 85/150

Tri-iodine (5 molecular, 5 sodium iodide, 2 1/2 potassium iodide

Natural selenium 100 mcg per day (vital to many enzyme systems in the body).

Coenzyme Q 10 400 mg+ per day - use the “quinol and not the quinone”. (Ubiquinol).

Turmeric 400 mg per day (active ingredient in curry - almost zero incidence of Alzheimers disease in India)

Pycnogenol 200 mg per day (A natural plant extract from the bark of the maritime pine tree, which grows exclusively along the coast of southwest France. The extract has four basic properties–it’s a powerful antioxidant, acts as a natural anti inflammatory, selectively binds to collagen and elastin, and finally, it aids in the production of endothelial nitric oxide which helps to dilate blood vessels.

Resveratrol 300 mg per day (contained in red wine - strong antioxidant and anticancer properties)

Flaxseed oil capsules 2000 mg per day

Fish oil capsules 2000-4000 mg per day- ingest frozen just before breakfast - back off of dosage if diarrhea or fishy skin odor develops

Acai juice or Mona Vie (Acai capsules by Puritan Pride is much less expensive)

DHEA 50 to 100 mg per day

Green tea extract, cinnamon capsules and garlic extract in appropriate doses

At the 2010 Susan Komen Breast Cancer symposia the importance of vitamins and minerals in preventing breast cancer was emphasized. Vitamins B-6, B-12, folic acid, D-3 as well as Zinc, Selenium, Molybdium and Iodine have been established as important nutrients in the prevention of breast cancer. This was backed up by many independent studies.

Protandim™ is a patented dietary supplement marketed by LifeVantage Corporation, a Utah-based company. Protandim’s, combination of ingredients, are claim to be the master regulator of longevity and featured on ABC News Primetime in 2009. Ingredients include milk thistle, turmeric, bacopa extract and Ashwagandha. The last two are botanicals with a long history of alleged nutritional benefits. I personally take all of the ingredients listed in Protandim but individually and in much higher doses.

SNACKS AND BEVERAGES: Snacks include fruits, veggies, dark chocolate, kefir, nuts and seeds. Beverages other than water may include a 2-3 ounce hard alcohol drink or one glass of wine (preferably red).

THE NEW SPECIALTY OF WELLNESS AND ANTI-AGING

For years there has been an interest in holistic medicine, which is largely out of the mainstream of western medicine. Unfortunately our medical schools do not emphasize the importance of nutrition, exercise and alternative approaches to our health care system. The majority of Americans, including health care providers, are obese and practice a reckless lifestyle. Physicians are geared towards treating patients only after a serious disease occurs and unfortunately their reactive treatments may be too little too late. Preventative medicine especially in the area of wellness and anti-aging is a better approach and should begin at birth and even before then with prospective parents.

POST SCRIPT

Dr. Lewis Obi has accumulated knowledge and wisdom as a Marine, Pharmacist, Physician, Plastic surgeon and a life long advocate of wellness. His specialty training began long before medical school and it continues today.

All of these recommendations including the long list of vitamins and supplements appears overwhelming. However, Dr. Obi recommends that we learn to crawl before we walk or run into adopting these recommendations. Simple changes in lifestyle should occur first, followed by gradual integration of this full regimen. Dr. Obi’s snack refrigerator behind his desk is totally replaced with vitamins and supplements and has become a way to continue a quest to be “FIT AT ANY AGE”.

LIPOSUCTION TECHNIQUES DEFINED

2012-01-17T10:03:00.014-05:00

Dr. Lewis Obi has been performing Liposuction techniques on his patients for approximately 30 years. These procedures, also known as “Lipoplasty”, “Liposculpture” and “Suction lipectomy” , have been performed since the 1960’s but popularized by French surgeon Dr. Yves-Gerard Illouz in the 1970’s. Modern Liposuction burst on the scene in 1982 with the presentation of Dr Illous’s paper in 1982. In 1985, Dr. Jeffrey Kline introduced his high volume infusion technique containing lidocaine and epinephrine (known as the tumescent technique). In the late 1990’s, ultrasound was introduced to facilitate fat removal by first liquefying the fat utilizing ultrasonic energy. However, frequent complications from this technique encouraged surgeons to continue with the traditional mechanical methods of fat removal. Although refinements in the traditional technique of liposuction have improved results slightly, it was not until lasers were introduced that significant improvements occurred. SmartLipo™ preceded Palomar’s introduction of the SlimLipo (LifeSculpt)™ platform. Unfortunately, the wrong wave lengths and design deficiencies compromised safety and results with SmartLipo. Palomar PhD laser experts researched laser wave lengths for more than a decade before identifying appropriate wave lengths which they acquired patents for. Palomar introduced SlimLipo almost four years ago and Dr. Lewis Obi was one of the earliest providers of this technology. During this period of time, Dr. Obi has treated almost 400 patients and last year presented his results at five major symposiums. “In my opinion, traditional techniques of liposuction have become obsolete and the other laser technologies are flawed”, stated Dr. Lewis Obi during a recent interview.

SLIM LIPO SUCCESSFUL IN ALMOST 100% OF PATIENTS WITH AXILLARY HYPERHIDROSIS (EXCESSIVE PERSPIRATION OF THE ARMPITS)

2012-01-16T09:12:00.003-05:00

As a follow up to our blog of May 25th, 2011, it has been reported by our European colleagues that SlimLipo (laser lipolysis) of the axillary sweat glands has been successful in almost all of the cases treated. Because hyperhidrosis affects more than 10% of the general population, hyperhidoris is considered a disease and many treatments proposed. Botox injections are successful but last only 3 to 6 months and are very expensive. One treatment with the Slim Lipo platform results in significant long term improvement in 80% of patients treated with reduced sweating in almost 100% of patients. A hyperhidrosis disease severity scale has been established and the class 3 and 4 patients were included in the European study. The SlimLipo treatments of the armpits are performed under local anesthesia with the patients returning to work the next day. An introductory fee of $2300 will remain in effect through February.

Hyperhydrosis Disease Severity Scale

“How would you rate the severity of your hyperhidrosis?”

1. My sweating is never noticeable and never interferes with my daily activities

2. My sweating is tolerable but sometimes interferes with my daily activities

3. My sweating is barely tolerable and frequently interferes with my daily activities

4. My sweating is intolerable and always interferes with my daily activities

DR. LEWIS OBI’S LECTURE AT JAG MONDAY NIGHT WELL RECEIVED

2012-01-13T10:54:00.005-05:00

On Monday night January 9th, Dr. Lewis Obi delivered a comprehensive presentation entitled “Serendipitous Journey with Art, Plastic Surgery and Manierre Dawson” to the Jacksonville Artists Guild. The lecture took place at St. Marks Church in Ortega and attended by approximately fifty members and guests. World famous artist Anthony Whiting introduced Dr. Obi to a very art oriented audience.

The “Serendipitous Journey” was embellished with almost 100 slides beginning with an archival photograph of Dr. Lewis Obi in Marine Corps fatigues while serving in Korea. The presentation ended with a question and answer session followed by an invitation for the Guild to attend an Artful Soiree at the 12,00 square foot Obi Plastic Surgery Clinic and Obiarts Museum.

RESOLUTIONS AND SOLUTIONS FOR 2012

2012-01-09T10:30:00.004-05:00

Daniel’s theme in this painting is around Asclepius, the God of Medicine and Healing in the ancient Greek religion. The setting is in the garden of healing with Sappho, a lyrist and poetess and heralded in Greek literature as one of the nine muses. Also pictured are statues of Aesclepius’ daughters Hygieia (“Hygiene”) and Panacea (“Universal Remedy”). The rod of Asclepius, a snake–entwined staff remains a symbol of medicine today.

In the tradition of “Universal Healing” in dealing with the ravages of 2011, the Obi Plastic Surgery Clinic would like to propose their solutions for the New Year. In addition to the Renaissance Specials we are additionally offering special fees for our most popular surgical procedures:

Breast Augmentation: Saline Implants $4400

Gel Implants $5400

Opera Lift Major $5900

Opera Lift Minor $4900

SlimLipo Abdomen, waist, and flanks $4400 (usual fee $5900)

SlimLipo Axilla (armpits) for Hyperhidrosis $2200 (usual fee $2900)

SlimLipo any area also at reduced fees

Click here to go back to the newsletter.

DR. OBI EXPLAINS THE BENEFITS OF THE NEW ICON LASER

2011-12-06T10:04:00.003-05:00

The Palomar Icon™ system is the next generation of aesthetic systems. With high peak powers, state of the art cooling, built in calibration, and an intuitive user interface, the Palomar Icon system provides fast treatments with excellent outcomes and user experience.

Building on two decades of unparalleled investments in developing light-based systems for aesthetic providers, the Palomar Icon system redefines the standard of light-based cosmetic and dermatologic care by introducing several new enhancements designed to improve clinical outcomes and treatment satisfaction.

While completely redesigned and improved, Palomar has built upon its 20-year leadership to take aesthetic technology to another level. With Palomar Icon, aesthetic applications can provide the most popular treatments including laser skin resurfacing, laser wrinkle reduction, laser scar and stretch mark treatment, permanent hair reduction, vessel and pigment clearance, and leg vein clearance.

Click here to review all of the applications of the Icon and their new and unique hand pieces.

DR. LEWIS OBI LECURES TONIGHT IN NEW YORK ON HIS NEW OPERA LIFT

2011-11-17T13:16:00.004-05:00

Last week Dr. Lewis Obi introduced his innovation, the Opera Lift at an advanced aesthetic symposium in Orlando. You may read details of the Opera Lift™ on our website: OBIPLASTICSURGERY.COM. It is a non-surgical facelift procedure which includes neck tightening with the Slim Lipo laser, Adivive Stem Cell concentrated fat grafting to the face (3D Spacelift) and Botox to the forehead. The Opera Lift Minor may be performed for under $5000 with a down time of 2 to 3 days. This technique is unique to Dr. Lewis Obi who is trying to share his talents with his colleagues with back to back lectures in Orlando and New York.

ANOTHER TECHNOLOGIC FIRST FOR THE OBI PLASTIC SURGERY CLINIC WITH THE ACQUISITION OF THE NEW PALOMAR ICON LASER PLATFORM

2011-11-07T12:33:00.007-05:00

Palomar Icon, the Dawn of a New Era in Laser and Optimized Light Technology

The Palomar Icon laser and optimized light system is clinically proven to produce results as good as or better than single-procedure lasers with more client comfort. The highpowered Palomar Icon system provides the most-requested aesthetic treatments, with Palomar's many patented innovations.

Dr. Lewis Obi is the First Plastic Surgeon on the First Coast to acquire Palomar’s Icon Laser Platform. To commemorate the arrival of this advanced technology, Dr Obi’s Renaissance Center will provide all of its laser treatments at a reduced cost during the next 60 days. Take time to read the details of this revolutionary new advance in lasers along with the it’s numerous aesthetic applications. Read more about the Icon

During the past three years, Dr. Lewis Obi was one of the first plastic surgeons
worldwide to offer LifeSculpt (SlimLipo) laser treatments and has successfully treated more than 350 patients. This year Dr. Obi became the first American Plastic Surgeon to acquire the FDA approved Adivive Fat Processing Unit providing stem cell concentrated fat grafting for both cosmetic and reconstructive patients. This was followed by the acquisition of the MaxStem Incubator and now the Icon™ laser platform. Less than three years ago the Obi Plastic Surgery Clinic acquired the Palomar 500 Starlux Laser which was then the “state of the art” external laser platform. The financial and intellectual investment in this enormous arsenal of technology has been extraordinary particularly in a time of economic reversals. Of particular note is the intellectual and academic contributions made by Dr. Lewis Obi. This year alone, Dr. Obi has lectured at and attended more than ten major plastic surgery meetings and symposia. This month, Dr. Obi will be a featured speaker at advanced symposia in New York and Orlando and will also attend a major stem cell meeting in Miami. Read more about the Icon

Body Sculpting and the New Facelift in the New Economy: Octoberfest Success!

2011-11-04T14:02:00.008-04:00

On the 20th of October, the Obi Plastic Surgery Clinic hosted a large gathering for the annual OctoberFest Celebration which was a great success. Dr. Obi shared his recent Santa Monica presentation entitled “Body Sculpting and the New Facelift in the New Economy” with the guests in attendance.

In addition Dr. Obi’s innovation, the "OPERA LIFT" procedure (Obi-Palomar External Rejuvenational Aesthetics) was one of the main topics of discussion. We have received requests for similar future presentations. We will be offering in-house "wine and cheese" type of events on a monthly basis. The first presentation will be delivered by Dr. Obi on Thursday, December 1st. Since participation for each event will be limited to 12 attendees, we encourage you to call our office (904) 399-0905 for enrollment as soon as possible.

Dr. Lewis Obi and his staff extend their wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving!

INTRODUCING THE "OPERA LIFT"

2011-11-02T08:00:00.008-04:00

Plastic Surgeons and patients alike are attracted to acronyms that have
been utilized over the decades in an effort to promote new techniques.
Early in Dr Lewis Obi’s career the term “Mini Lift” was used as a marketing
tool to provide patients with alternatives to the more major and costly face
lifting procedures. The issue of down time from work and social activities
was also a consideration. About every five years or so since the term Mini
Lift was introduced, other trademark procedures have included the “Feather
Lift”, “MACS Lift” and “Life Style Lift”. Except for the “Feather Lift” which
was soon abandoned because of significant complications, none of the
other trademark procedures were unique. However with the recent advent
of advanced technology by Palomar, there is finally justification for a new
acronym The OPERA Lift”. Palomar Medical introduced the LifeSculpt
(SlimLipo) laser platform three years ago and Dr. Lewis Obi was one of the
earliest providers. This year Palomar introduced the Adivive Fat Processing
Unit and Dr. Obi acquired the first FDA approved system.

Dr. Lewis Obi has combined these two technologies and is now offering
patients with a significant alternative to traditional facelifting procedures.
The OPERA Lift is translated into the Obi Palomar External Rejuvenation
Aesthetics and is an entirely non-surgical procedure. Loose facial skin,
deep facial creases, indelible lines and eye hollows are minimized with
Adivive stem cell enhanced fat grafting (an average take of 52%). Neck
tightening is achieved with the Palomar SlimLipo laser platform. Down time
varies from 3 days to 10 days depending on the volume of fat grafting
utilized in the face. The pictures below reflect the patient immediately after
fat grafting and then 3 days later (OPERA minor). The introductory pictures
above reflect a longer recovery because of larger fat volume and the added
surgical procedures of an LJO browlift (OPERA major). The OPERA minor
procedure may be performed with oral sedation whereas the Opera major
is performed with conscious nurse sedation.

Another example of a large volume fat grafting procedure to the face
(Opera major) resulted in a down time of approximately 7 days. Stem cell
concentrated fat may be use in volumes of up to 90 cc thereby resulting in
a “3D Spacelift” that was first described by Dr. Mark Berman of Beverly
Hills. Patients are told that they may benefit with a second but lesser
(OPERA minor) grafting session six months to a year later. Long term
results are expected in the majority of patients.

DR LEWIS OBI LECTURES IN SANTA MONICA

2011-11-01T15:27:00.004-04:00

Dr. Lewis Obi shared the podium at an Advanced Symposium with Dr. Mark Berman on October 15th. During the previous day Dr. Obi was privileged to witness new clinical applications of stem cells derived from adult fat. Dr. Berman has worked with Dr. Lee of South Korea and Dr. Yoshimura of Tokyo for the past three years in developing this new technology. Palomar provided Dr. Lewis Obi with the first FDA approved system in January of this year. The Adivive system combined with the SlimLipo laser platform has allowed Dr. Obi to perform total non surgical face and neck rejuvenation at a reduced cost and with less down time. Our next blog will feature the new OPERA LIFT PROCEDURE developed by Dr, Lewis Obi.

DENVER, SANTA MONICA, NEW YORK AND ORLANDO

2011-10-07T13:14:00.001-04:00

Within the span of ten weeks, from September 25th to December 10th, Dr. Lewis Obi has been listed as a featured speaker in Denver, Santa Monica, New York City and Orlando. His talks have covered a wide range of topics ranging from advanced reconstructive breast surgery to the most recent clinical applications of lasers and stem cell fat in many areas of plastic surgery. Last weekend, Dr. Lewis Obi was one of the presenters at the annual meeting of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS) in Denver. Next week Dr. Obi travels to Santa Monica, CA where is a speaker at an Advanced Symposium sponsored by Palomar Medical Technology Inc. Similar presentations later this year will occur in New York City and Orlando.

Leaders in Comprehensive Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

2011-10-06T14:54:00.001-04:00

Obi Plastic Surgery Clinic: Dr. Lewis J. Obi

Leaders in Comprehensive Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

Recognized as a pioneering plastic surgeon in Northeast Florida, Dr. Lewis Obi, founder of the Obi Plastic Surgery Clinic, is a highly respected and experienced board-certified plastic surgeon, specializing in both aesthetic and reconstructive plastic surgery services. Dr. Obi served our country in the United States Marine Corps before completing medical school at the University of Miami.

At Obi Plastic Surgery Clinic we believe it is our dedication to patient care and safety that allows our patients to experience the most advanced surgical techniques in a comfortable and confidential setting.

The philosophical emphasis of Dr. Lewis Obi and his professional team centers around a humanitarian dedication combined with artistry and surgical prowess. These skills and talents are constantly reviewed and updated so that we are always on the cutting edge of our profession. Call for a free consultation.

3599 University Boulevard South, Suite 604 Jacksonville, Fl. 32216 904-399-0905

www.obiplasticsurgery.com

DAVID HOULE: “THE NEW HEALTH AGE AND THE FUTURE OF HEALTH CARE IN AMERICA"

2011-10-06T13:34:00.000-04:00

Dr. Lewis Obi was proud to be the guest of Raimundo “Ric” Davalos at the Annual Seminar sponsored by the Montoya & Associates on Tuesday September 27th. Keynote speakers were authors David Houle and Jonathan Fleece who preempted thier upcoming book entitled “The New Health Age” and the Future of Health care in America. Both Houle and Fleece shared their personal incites on the future of health care with Dr. Obi after their lectures. David Houle is known as the “CEOʼs futurist” and is one of the most sought after speakers internationally. Mr. Davalos is founder and CEO of the start-up company CMEnow. Coincidentally, both Dr. Lewis Obi and David Houle are both on the board of directors advisory committee for CMEnow.

2011-09-27T13:22:00.001-04:00

Be sure to check out the Obi Plastic Surgery web site at www.obiplasticsurgery.com

THE NEW FACELIFT IN THE NEW ECONOMY

2011-09-23T14:09:00.008-04:00

This weekend Dr. Lewis Obi delivers his presentation on The New Facelift in the New Economy at the American Society of Plastic Surgeons meeting in Denver. To commemorate this event, the Obi Plastic Surgery Clinic are providing a choice of non-surgical options at more affordable fees. Most of these procedures may be performed with preoperative sedation and minimum down time.

Non-surgical Necklift with LifeSculpt (SlimLipo)
1 to 2 days down time - $2000

Learn more about LifeSculpt

Non-surgical Facelift (3D Spacelift) with Adivive Fat Grafting (stem-cell rich)
$3500 for limited face - 3 days average down time

Learn more about Adivive Fat Grafting

Non-Surgical Facelift (Adivive) and Non-Surgical Necklift (LifeSculpt)-Combined
$4900 (with limited Adivive) - complimentary Botox with this package

Learn more about LifeSculpt
Learn more about Adivive Fat Grafting

Dr. Lewis Obi has performed LifeSculpt (SlimLipo) on 340 patients including 150 neck procedures during the past 35 months. As Palomarʼs first provider of Adivive™ stemcell concentrated fat grafting system, Dr. Obi has treated more than 50 patients. Patients may have these procedures performed on Wednesday, Thursday or Fridays and return to work in 2 to 3 days. For sake of economy, some patients elect to have limited eyelid and/or browlift procedures performed at the same time. The full face Adivive procedures along with eyelid surgery does require a longer recovery time.

THE FLORIDA TIMES-UNION HEADLINE STORY TODAY

2011-09-20T09:32:00.000-04:00

“Mayo joins S. Korean firm for ALS study”

Todayʼs headline story in the Florida Times-Union is a very familiar story to Dr. Lewis Obi. Palomar Medical Technology Inc. has been collaborating with South Korean Plastic Surgeon Dr. He Young Lee since last year. Dr. Lee, MD, PhD heads up MediKahn which is based in Seoul, Korea. After meeting with Dr. Lee last year, Dr. Lewis Obi was provided with the first FDA Fat Processing Unit in January. The Adivive™ (Lipokit) system was developed to concentrate stem cells derived from adult fat. Dr. Obi was questioned at the Obi Plastic Surgery Clinic today regarding today's TU article and he stated “It makes sense to look to Asia for leading research not only in the area of Stem Cell science but also into biopharmaceuticals as The Mayo Clinicʼs research team here in Jacksonville is doing. During the past year we have been extremely interactive with scientific developments not only in South Korea but in Japan, Europe and the U.S.”

Read the full article on Jacksonville.com: http://jacksonville.com/news/metro/2011-09-20/story/mayo-clinic-south-korean-company-collaborating-als-research

DR. LEWIS OBI TO LECTURE IN DENVER AND SANTA MONICA

2011-09-13T15:57:00.006-04:00

As indicated in our September Newsletter, Dr. Lewis Obi is scheduled to deliver a major presentation on September 25th at the National Meeting of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons in Denver. “The New Facelift in the New Economy: Combining Modalities for Customized Results” is the title of his presentation. The application of two important tools unique to the Jacksonville Plastic Surgeons armamentarium includes the Palomar LifeSculpt (SlimLipo) platform and the newly introduced Adivive Fat Processing Unit.

In addition to his Denver presentation, Dr. Lewis Obi is also scheduled to deliver another presentation at an Advanced Body Sculpting Symposium in Santa Monica, CA on October 15th. During these presentations, Dr. Obi will unveil the new “Laser-Stem Facelift™”. This highly advanced approach will allow patients to experience significant facial and neck rejuvenation with most patients returning to work within 3 days. The first 15 patients will be provided with complimentary Botox and/or a free Clarisonic. As indicated, details of this unique new approach in the area of cosmetic facial surgery will follow.

Click here to learn more about the new Laser-Stem Facelift and all about Adivive and SlimLipo.

DR. LEWIS OBI INTRODUCES THE LASER-STEM FACELIFT:

2011-09-13T15:31:00.006-04:00

During the past three years, Dr. Lewis Obi has worked closely with Palomar Medical Technology in developing clinical applications for their LifeSculpt laser platform and more recently combining this unique tool with Palomarʼs Adivive Fat Processing Unit. In fact, Dr. Lewis Obi was provided with the first FDA approved Adivive system in the United States. Developed by Dr. He Young Lee in South Korea, this system is the only totally self contained unit that processes adult fat into a stem cell concentrated filler useful for both cosmetic and reconstructive applications. To date, Dr. Lewis Obi has completed approximately 50 Adivive Fat Grafting procedures and 350 LifeSculpt (SlimLipo) cases. Because of Dr. Obiʼs leadership and broad depth of experience in the field of cosmetic plastic surgery, he has advanced this area of plastic surgery into a totally new paradigm. His upcoming lecture at the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) in Denver later this month entitled “The New Facelift in the New Economy: Combining Modalities for Customized Results” will unveil his unique approach to total face and neck rejuvenation.

There are many benefits of this approach in terms of results, his most recent adaptation of these combined treatments avoids the need IV sedation and the patient returns to work after a short recovery. Depending on the extent of the procedures, the fee for this new and relatively non-invasive facelift would range between $3500 to $4900. The procedures include the use of the patients own fat processed and condensed by the Adivive system. This may then be injected into facial areas such as the cheek creases, the marionette creases, lips, cheekbone areas and chin. In addition to the Adivive facial rejuvenation, neck tightening with the LifeSculpt (SlimLipo) system may also be performed at the same time. Both procedures are generally performed under local anesthesia with a preoperative sedation taken orally as an option. The majority of patients may have these procedures performed on a Friday and return to work on the following Monday. The fee for Adivive facial fat grafting performed in this manner is $3500. If LifeSculpt laser neck tightening is performed at the same time then the total fee would be $4900. It should be noted that currently, comprehensive Adivive Fat Grafting facial procedures are performed under nurse sedation because larger quantities of fat is harvested, processed and then injected into more diffused facial areas. This technique also results in a larger fee and more recovery time.

Be sure to visit our web site to learn more about Adivive and Adivive costs as well as LifeSculpt and LifeSculpt costs.

OBI PLASTIC SURGERY CLINIC CONTINUES THEIR COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY SERVICE IN BOTH AESTHETIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE PLASTIC SURGERY

2011-08-17T16:10:00.002-04:00

The highly professional and competent staff at the Obi Plastic Surgery Clinic has always provided unparalled care to a broad range of surgery patients. Because of our weakened economy and diminishing insurance reimbursements, our practice writes off more than 50% of insurance charges filed for reconstructive plastic surgery procedures. The Samuel Wells Surgicenter and Dr. Lewis Obi is still one of the few private health care providers that accepts Medicare as well as other insurance providers who fail to provide reimbursements that cover our basic costs. This is only possible because of Dr. Obi’s successful practice that performs many innovative new procedures that have both aesthetic and reconstructive applications. In spite of the economic downturn, Dr. Lewis Obi’s practice has thrived and we are happy to report no downsizing of our staff.

Dr. Lewis Obi is personally proud of his staff’s commitment and loyalty. Obi Plastic Surgery Clinic staff includes Carole, Karen, Michelle, Lisa, Julie, Alyssa, Tina, Denise, Faye, Darlene, Ken, Amelia, Melanie, Debbie, Sherry, Casey and Tori.

OBI PLASTIC SURGERY CLINIC CONTINUES TO BE IN THE FOREFRONT OF PLASTIC SURGERY

2011-08-17T15:17:00.011-04:00

"AESTHETIC WARRIOR - Lewis J. Obi, MD, stays very active on plastic surgery’s front lines" was the cover story for the June issue of Plastic Surgery Practice magazine, an international trade publication.

Dr. Lewis Obi has been high profile not only as a comprehensive plastic surgeon but also in the area of clinical research with lasers and stem cell fat grafting. During the past 33 months Dr. Obi has treated nearly 400 patients with SlimLipo (LifeSculpt) laser technology and Adivive Fat Grafting procedures (Palomar Medical Technology Inc.™). Dr. Lewis Obi has lectured at numerous advanced symposia as well as national plastic surgery society meetings. Next month he is scheduled to lecture at the American Society of Plastic Surgeons annual meeting in Denver. Also, Dr. Lewis Obi is working with the most advanced stem cell researchers not only in the United States but also in South Korea and Japan. Current projects include joining an ongoing IRB (Institutional Review Board) in the area of isolating and concentrating stem cells from adult fat. This is an area of intense interest in both reconstructive and aesthetic plastic surgery. Also, it is the focus of ongoing research in the area of curative medicine. There are very few private plastic surgery clinics in the U.S. that are so engaged in developing this new technology.

Within the past year, Dr. Lewis Obi has established relationships with the most advanced physicians in the area of stem cell research including Dr. He Young Lee of South Korea (MediKahn), Dr Kotaro Yoshimura of Tokyo and Dr. Mark Berman of California. “I am very privileged to be part of this unique scientific revolution in our specialty of plastic surgery” was a recent comment made by Dr. Lewis Obi to his colleagues.

THE 'NEW FACELIFT' IN THE NEW ECONOMY

2011-07-18T11:46:00.002-04:00

This is the title of Dr. Lewis Obi’s upcoming 1 1/2 hour presentation at the ASPS meeting and it has become the new standard for facial rejuvenation by the leading surgeons in plastic surgery. Comprehensive but natural rejuvenation of brows, eyelids, mid-face and neck integrates traditional surgical techniques with advanced lasers, such as Slim Lipo neck tightening and skin resurfacing, and the recently released Adivive™ fat processing unit. The use of concentrated stem cell fat grafting has been the most recent addition to the “New Facelift” approach for many of Dr. Lewis Obi’s patients. Cost and down time has been reduced while still enhancing results and lowering costs.

>> Learn more about Adivive costs and downtime.

>> Learn more about SlimLipo costs and downtime.

DR. LEWIS OBI TO SPEAK AT ANNUAL MEETING OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF PLASTIC SURGEONS (ASPS)

2011-07-18T10:55:00.003-04:00

Dr. Lewis Obi remains in the forefront of plastic surgery with an invitation to deliver a 1 1/2 hour presentation at the annual meeting of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) on September 25, 2011. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) is the largest plastic surgery specialty organization in the world. Founded in 1931, the society is composed of board-certified plastic surgeons who perform cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. With more than 6000 board certified plastic surgeons, the ASPS annual meeting is the largest attended plastic surgery meeting of the year. Dr. Lewis Obi’s talk is titled "The New "FaceLift" in the New Economy: Combining Modalities for Customized Results". Dr. Obi was selected to present this topic at a special 1 1/2 hour luncheon assembly because of his advanced work with lasers, stem cell fat grafting and his specialized techniques of facial rejuvenation. A combination of in depth experience and evolving new techniques has placed Dr. Lewis Obi in demand on a national level. His cover story for Plastic Surgery Practice (PSP) magazine last month is a testimonial to the escalating recognition of Dr. Lewis Obi among his peers.

DR. JOHN MURRAY ALSO TO SPEAK AT ASPS
During the same week in September, Dr. John Murray will present his own clinical testing on a new technique of assessing circulation in flaps during reconstructive breast surgery. Novodaq developed the SPY Imaging System which allows surgeons to capture, review, print and archive high-quality image sequences of blood flow in vessels and micro-vessels, tissue and organ perfusion within minutes and in real-time during the course of performing a wide variety of surgical procedures.

DR. LEWIS OBI FEATURED ON COVER STORY FOR PLASTIC SURGERY

2011-06-20T13:48:00.004-04:00

Plastic Surgery Practice Magazine is an international plastic surgery publication distributed to more than 15,000 plastic surgeons worldwide. PSP provides plastic surgeons with the latest and most innovative news in the field of plastic surgery. The editor Jeff Frentzen each month selects a cover story of universal interest and selected Dr. Lewis Obi for his cover story this month. Writer Amy Di Leo interviewed Dr. Obi on multiple occasions prior to writing her story:

Aesthetic
Warrior Lewis J. Obi, MD, stays very active
on plastic surgery's front lines.

To read the entire article go to:
www.plasticsurgerypractice.com/issues/articles/2011-06_01.asp

DR. LEWIS OBI AND DR. JOHN MURRAY - BREAST SURGEONS

2011-06-20T13:32:00.003-04:00

Dr. Lewis Obi and Dr. John Murray have effectively combined their diverse talents in the areas of aesthetic breast surgery and reconstructive breast surgery. Their skills are particularly beneficial to patients who are seeking breast augmentation and breast reductions. In addition, they are particularly skilled to take care of complex cases such as the mastectomy patient and patients with a history of previous breast surgery complications. Many of these cases are covered by insurance and may be treated at the Samuel Wells Surgicenter which is part of the Obi Plastic Surgery Clinic.

SLIM LIPO AND ADIVIVE UPDATE

2011-06-16T13:24:00.000-04:00

Dr.Lewis Obi has treated more than 300 patients with the Slim Lipo (LifeSculpt) laser lipolysis system and continues on the cutting edge of this relatively new technology. Palomar Medical Technology Inc., developer of Slim Lipo, also acquired FDA approval for their Adivive Fat Processing Unit six months ago. Dr. Lewis Obi was provided the first Adivive unit in the United States and has treated more than 30 patients since January. Unwanted fat obtained during Slim Lipo procedures may then be used for facial rejuvenation, breast reconstruction and for other areas requiring large volume natural fillers.

SKIN CANCERS, SUN EXPOSURE AND SUNSCREENS REVISITED

2011-06-03T09:09:00.004-04:00

Last May, the Obi Plastic Surgery Clinic presented a comprehensive blog on the topic of skin cancers and sunscreens.

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) just issued a new directive on this issue and it should be noted that more than 80% of sunscreens on the market are either unsafe or ineffective. This is particularly important with our babies and children as sun exposure during these early years leads to accelerated aging, damage to the immune system, increased incidence of internal as well as skin cancers, cataracts, macular degeneration and numerous other maladies.

Therefore our advice is for limited sun exposure and the safest sunscreen is clothing, hats and sunglasses. However, the majority of Americans are spraying and splashing unsafe chemical on their skin which may not only be internally toxic but also increase the risk of melanomas and other cancers. Drs. Lewis Obi and John Murray together have more than 50 years of combined experience in treating melanomas and other skin cancers and both doctors agree that the best treatment is prevention. Therefore, we are republishing our recommendations from last spring's blog post along with the most recent recommendations from EWG for the selection of safe and effective sunscreens. Dr. Lewis Obiʼs background includes seven years as a practicing Registered Pharmacist (BSP) and along with his decades of experience as a plastic surgeon, his sage advice is worthy of your attention.

To read the article in its entirety, click here to see the full PDF version.

To learn more about The Environmental Working Group and sunscreen, visit their web site at http://breakingnews.ewg.org/2011sunscreen/

A NOVEL NEW APPROACH TO THE TREATMENT OF HYPERHIDROSIS (EXCESSIVE PERSPIRATION OF THE ARMPITS)

2011-05-25T09:21:00.003-04:00

At the New York symposium, Dr. Lewis Obi also shared the morning session with Dr. Afschin Fatemi of Dusseldorf, Germany who delivered a revolutionary new technique for the treatment of axillary hyperhidrosis. Excessive perspiration of the armpits affects more than 10% of the general population and to date the only treatment has been the use of Botox™. Botox treatments can be expensive ($1000 per treatment), cumbersome and short lasting (6 months or less). Dr. Fatemi, a world renown German dermatologist, has developed a technique of long term elimination of axillary hyperhidrosis with the use of the SlimLipo laser system. This treatment may be performed under local anesthesia in less than one hour with virtually no down time. According to Dr. Fatemi, who has treated hundreds of patients in the past two years, has had success in 86% of his patients. Dr. Lewis Obi shared his own experience with Dr. Fatemi during a lunch break after their respective lectures The cost of this procedure is approximately $2000 and most patients return to work the next day. For additional information regarding this new treatment for excessive perspiration of the armpits, contact The Obi Plastic Surgery Clinic at 904-399-0905.

DR LEWIS OBI FEATURED AT NEW YORK ADVANCED SYMPOSIUM FOR FAT DERIVED STEM CELL FAT CLINICAL APPLICATIONS

2011-05-24T15:43:00.004-04:00

Dr. Lewis Obi was one of the keynote speakers at Palomars Advanced body sculpturing symposium in New York this past weekend. Palomar Medical Technology Inc. is the premier world leader in the development and production of medical lasers used by plastic surgeons. At the symposium, Dr. Lewis Obi shared his 30 months of experience with Slim Lipo (LifeSculpt) system to an international audience. Dr. Obi was one of the first plastic surgeons in the world to integrate this advanced technology into his practice.

In January, Dr. Lewis Obi was the first plastic surgeon in the United States to integrate Palomar’s Adivive™ FDA approved Fat Processing Unit into his practice. Three of the major clinical researchers and developers of fat-derived stem cell fat are Dr. He Young Lee of South Korea, Dr. Katora Hoshimura of Tokyo, and Dr. Mark Berman of Santa Monia. Since last year, Dr. Lewis Obi has worked closely with these pioneering plastic surgeons and has achieved tremendous success with his patients in the area of stem cell fat grafting. He has treated 25 patients in more than 40 areas including the face, breast and hands. The Adivive Fat Processing Unit is the only totally enclosed system which harvests fat, filters and centrifuges fat and finally delivers the stem cell concentrated aspirate into syringes that then injects into the target areas. The only major competitor of Adivive is the complex Cytori system which is not yet FDA approved and therefore unavailable in the United States. Cytori’s only domestic unit is PureGraft™ which is a very simple system of IV tubing that cleans the lipoaspirate without the complex features of Adivive i.e. compacting, filtering and condensing fat in a totally enclosed unit. Dr. Mark Berman, who shared the podium with Dr. Lewis Obi this past weekend, has commented that “PureGraft is not too different from what we all have been doing with fat for decades. The non FDA approved complex Cytori system is not bad but the cost factor is prohibitive for our domestic patients. Therefore Adivive (Lipokit) is the best and only cost efficient system in the area of stem cell fat."

DR LEWIS OBI TO APPEAR ON JUNE COVER OF PLASTIC SURGERY PRACTICE MAGAZINE

2011-05-13T08:00:00.001-04:00

Dr. Lewis Obi is receiving special international recognition as he will be the cover story for Plastic Surgery Practice Magazine in the upcoming June 2011 issue.

His nomination for the cover story was a recognition of not only his long term contributions in the field of plastic surgery but his ongoing participation in developing new technology in the area of lasers, clinical applications of fat derived stem cell science and major participation in the field of reconstructive plastic surgery.

During the past three years Dr. Obi has lectured at several symposia and plastic surgery meetings nationally in addition to training plastic surgeons at the Obi Plastic Surgery Clinic. For the past six months he has actively participated with his new associate Dr. John Murray in their efforts to enhance the care of breast cancer patients.

DR LEWIS OBIʼS ACTIVE TEACHING SCHEDULE

2011-05-13T08:00:00.000-04:00

In March, we announced that Dr. Lewis Obi was one of the major presenters at an advanced symposium in Dallas. Later this month Dr. Obi will not only share his 30 months of experience with Slim Lipo™ (LifeSculpt™) but also
present one of the earliest U.S. clinical applications of Adivive™. Palomar Medical Technology Inc. provided Dr. Lewis Obi with the first FDA approved Adivive (Lipokit) units in January and as of this week Dr. Obi has treated more than 20 patients with this new fat grafting system.

“The Adivive™ Fat Processing Unit is the only system that infuses tissues, harvests fat, centrifuges and delivers fat in a totally enclosed sterile system,” commented Dr. Obi. “My discussions with University of Tokyoʼs Chairman of Plastic Surgery, Dr. Yoshimura, this weekend in Boston, was a learning experience for me.” Dr. Obi comments that “Although I have been performing fat grafting at least ten years before Dr. Yoshimura, his research and publications have provided the world of medicine with a wealth of important data.”

Of interest is that Dr. Yoshimura and Dr. Lewis Obi are using the same Fat Processing System developed by Dr. He Young Lee of South Korea several years ago. Adipose derived stem cell (ADSC) fat is one of the most active areas of research not only in plastic surgery but in all areas of medicine. Because of higher survival rates of “cleaner” fat, the use of this technique has many new applications in both aesthetic and reconstructive plastic surgery procedures.

For specific applications refer to our recent work with Adivive (Lipokit) patients on our website.

DR LEWIS OBI VISITS PALOMAR MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY INCʼS NEW RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT AND PRODUCTION PLANT IN BURLINGTON, MA

2011-05-12T08:00:00.001-04:00

World famous stem cell plastic surgeon Dr. Katora Yoshimura from the University of Tokyo and Dr. Lewis Obi were among a small group of five plastic surgeons visiting the 130,000 square foot facility of Palomar Medical Technology this past week.

Palomar is perhaps the world leading producer of medical lasers and 30 months ago introduced Dr. Obi to their newly developed laser lipolysis Slim Lipo™ system.

“I was blown away and in total awe of the magnitude of this high-tech facility outside of Boston where the leading laser scientists are conducting ground breaking research and development,” said Dr. Obi.

Palomar is one of the last American high-tech corporations that are not only conducting laser research and development but entirely producing all of their own medical lasers in house. Palomarʼs most recent innovation is their home-use laser Palovia™ which is marketed through QVC and Nordstrom. This micro fractional laser device sells for only $499 and patients may effectively and safely treat eyelid wrinkles at home.

Dr. Lewis Obi was most impressed with PMTIʼs CEO, Joe Caruso, who directed the tour of his unique facility. Dr. Gregory Altshuler Ph.D. who, during the cold war years, was the director of the St. Petersberg Russian laser program, joined Palomar in 1995. He now heads up R&D with his large team of Ph.D. laser experts.

Plastic surgeon, Dr. Brooke R. Seckel is the medical director of Palomar and is Chairman Emeritus of Plastic Surgery at the Lahey Clinic as well as Assistant Professor of Surgery at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Seckel is perhaps one of the leading aesthetic laser surgeons in the world.

PALOVIA NOW AVAILABLE AT THE RENAISSANCE CENTER

2011-05-11T08:00:00.001-04:00

Dr. Lewis Obi and Denise Merlo are happy to announce that the Obi Plastic Surgery Clinic will provide patients with the new hand-held self treatment laser Palovia™ at the same low discounted cost at Nordstrom and QVC. The advantages of patients acquiring their units from Dr. Lewis Obi are numerous.

We will provide you with instructions for treating eyelid lines and also integrate the use of this laser with almost every surgical procedure performed at our facility. Coincidentally, Palovia™, although not specified by its FDA approval, also has been found to speed up healing of fresh surgical scars and also enhance collagen rejuvenation in other areas of the body.

Patients undergoing major cosmetic procedures are encouraged to integrate the use of this device in their ongoing rejuvenation efforts. “My visit with many of the laser experts at Palomar this past weekend was very convincing,” said Dr. Obi.

MOTHERS DAY EVENT AN EXTREME SUCCESS

2011-05-10T15:02:00.002-04:00

Finally, Dr. Lewis Obi and his staff want to wish all of the mothers a belated Happy Mothers Day. Our Mothers Day event on May the 4th was an extreme success. Our entire staff was in attendance and dedicated to enhancing the care of our patients and guests. Nurse practitioner Michelle Zager was much appreciated by her patients and continues to be one of our top professionals. She will be featured as our employee of the month in our May newsletter. The entire team at the Obi Plastic Surgery Clinic is indeed dedicated professionals who on a daily basis provide our patients with not only quality care but sensitivity and compassion to every single patient.

The Fourth Annual Breast Cancer Symposium Is Right Around The Corner

2011-04-07T11:46:00.002-04:00

Dr. Murray and the entire team at Obi Plastic Surgery Clinic are excited to announce that the 4th Annual Breast Cancer Symposium held in East Peoria, Illinois is right around the corner.

This year's symposium, held September 29th - 30th, 2011, promises to educate and inform just as the previous year's conferences. We encourage all physicians and healthcare personnel to attend this forum to learn more about the latest in diagnosis and treatments regarding breast cancer.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact our Jacksonville plastic surgery center or visit the Breast Cancer Symposium web site for registration details.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Adivive (Lipokit) Discussion on WJXT Channel 4 in Jacksonville

2011-04-04T16:40:00.003-04:00

Dr. Lewis Obi and Dr. John Murray were recently invited to discuss the Adivive (Lipokit) procedure on WJXT Channel 4 morning show in Jacksonville. Watch the video to see the doctors discuss all the benefits of the Adivive procedure, the first FDA-approved autologous fat transfer system, and discover why they are the first doctors to receive this.

NEW TREATMENT FOR AXILLARY HYPERHIDROSISEXCESS SWEATING IN THE ARMPIT AREA

2011-03-18T15:02:00.002-04:00

In the past the only effective treatment for excessive perspiration in the armpit area was the use of Botox™ injections. Not only are these Botox injections expensive ($1000 plus per treatment) but the benefits were short term, usually six months. It was accidentally discovered by Palomar Medical that SlimLipo™ laser lipolysis will abolish the sweat glands in the armpit area for a more permanent result. Since the sweat glands reside in the axillary fat cells then the SlimLipo laser platform is an effective ablative treatment. This treatment may be performed under local anesthesia with no down time. The fee for this procedure is usually around $2000 and if performed with another SlimLipo procedure then the cost is reduced to about $1200.

DR JOHN MURRAY UPDATE

2011-03-17T15:14:00.000-04:00

Dr. Murray has been busy, as co-chair, of designing the educational program for the Fourth Annual Breast Cancer Symposium. This symposium will take place in Peoria, IL (also the home of Susan G. Komen) on September 29-30, 2011. Dr. Murray chaired this symposium over the first three years, before relocating to Jacksonville, FL. Since joining Dr. Lewis Obiʼs practice he has been active with the Comprehensive Breast Care Centers at Memorial, Baptist and St. Vincentʼs Hospitals. Recently Memorial and St. Vincentʼs were awarded full accreditation by the American College of Surgeons.

DR. LEWIS OBI PRESENTED 28 MONTH 280 PATIENT RESULTS AT ADVANCED SYMPOSIUM IN DALLAS ON MARCH 12, 2011

2011-03-14T15:09:00.000-04:00

Dr. Lewis Obi was featured as one of the key presenters at an advanced plastic surgery body sculpturing this past weekend in Dallas. In addition to his results with the Slim Lipo platform, Dr. Obi shared his initial experience with the Lipokit fat grafting system. Many aspects of adult stem cell fat and its potential in plastic surgery was reviewed at the symposium. Dr. Mark Berman, president elect of the cosmetic society, also shared his long term results of fat grafting as well as his research into the area of therapeutic stem cell therapies.

THE USE OF ADULT FAT FOR BREAST RECONSTRUCTION

2011-03-09T12:09:00.002-05:00

The potential for fat-derived stem cells in reconstructive and aesthetic surgery is promising and slowly becoming a reality. Already numerous centers in both Europe and Asia are exploring this concept and have been performing breast reconstruction with minimally invasive fat grafting techniques for many years. Recently the FDA approved a Fat Processing Unit developed by Dr. He Young Lee of South Korea (Medikahn™) which was imported by Palomar Medical Technology under the name of Lipokit™.

In January, Jacksonville Plastic Surgeons Drs. Lewis Obi and John Murray were provided with the first FDA approved Lipokit™ unit in the United States. Already within the past six weeks they have fat grafted nine patients in areas including the breasts, face and upper extremities. Most of these procedures may be performed without general anesthesia nor open surgery. A significant number of breast cancer patients are candidates for this innovative new technique thus avoiding the use of breast implants and/or complicated flap procedures. Next week Dr. Lewis Obi is presenting in Dallas his tentative fat grafting results along with his presentation of his 27-month experience with the Slim Lipo™ fat lipolysis platform. At the same time that unwanted fat is recycled to other areas of the body, the donor sites such as abdomen and thighs may be simultaneously tightened with the Slim Lipo laser device.

DR. LEWIS OBI AND DR. JOHN MURRAY ACADEMIC ACTIVITIES

2011-03-08T12:00:00.000-05:00

Last month Dr. Lewis Obi attended the Breast fat grafting seminar at the Baker-Gordon Annual Symposium in Miami. World leaders in the area of adult stem cell fat presented a large series of cases performed worldwide. During the same week Dr. John Murray presented a joint study conducted by he and Dr. Lewis Obi at the Breast Cancer Symposium at Amelia Island. Last week Dr. John Murray also presented a comprehensive paper on breast reconstruction at the Downtown Baptist Medical center On the 12th of March Dr. Lewis Obi is one of the keynote speakers at an advanced body contouring and rejuvenation symposium in Dallas. His presentation reviews his 28 month experience with Palomar’s SlimLipo platform and also he will share his tentative clinical results with the Lipokit™ fat grafting unit. During Dr. Lewis Obi’s Dallas trip he plans to visit one of the world’s largest stem cell research laboratories which is affiliated with the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School.

OBI PLASTIC SURGERY CLINIC UPDATES

2011-03-07T11:19:00.000-05:00

Since our last blog in January, our website has been replete with enhancements plus updates on new plastic surgery services and procedures . The Lewis Obi Plastic Surgery Clinic was the first plastic surgery center in the United States to introduce the FDA approved Palomar Lipokit™ system. This unit allows the plastic surgeon to remove fat from unwanted areas, condense the fat into a stem cell rich filler for use in the face, breasts and other areas of the body. During the past month we have performed more than 10 procedures with the Lipokit™ autologous fat grafting system.

Here are some amazing before and after photos of a Lipokit patient:

Before After

Since January, we have also introduced monthly clinic newsletters on our website.

Of current interest is the revolving banner titled “March Renewal Specials” which provides our patients a 20% fee reduction for some of our major procedures.

OBI PLASTIC SURGERY NEWSLETTERS

2011-01-24T13:10:00.006-05:00

2011 marks many new beginnings for Dr. Lewis Obi and the entire team at the Obi Plastic Surgery center.

With the addition of Dr. John Murray and some amazing plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery services to the already extensive suite of plastic surgery services, we are proud to now offer our patients and potential patients a newsletter!

Our monthly newsletter will be packed full of news and updates as well as special savings and practice events!

If you would like to subscribe to our newsletter, email Erika at erika@obiplasticsurgery.com.

If you don't wish to subscribe, you can view our newsletter by visiting:
Obi Plastic Surgery Web Site Newsletters Page
Plastic Surgery Blog Monthly Newsletter Page

DR. JOHN D. MURRAY UPDATE

2011-01-21T08:00:00.000-05:00

Dr. Murray began his third month of partnership with Jacksonville plastic surgeon, Dr. Lewis Obi this month and is already establishing an active practice both at the Obi Plastic Surgery center as well as the major hospitals in Jacksonville. The partnership is evolving into an alliance geared towards comprehensive plastic and reconstructive care for the entire Jacksonville medical community. As was recently stated in the December issue of the Florida Doctor publication: "What happens when two Renaissance men come together to form an alliance geared toward comprehensive plastic and reconstructive surgery: Itʼs a masterpiece in the making and quite simply a work of art and science."

Read more about Dr. Obi and Dr. Murray and their ever-evolving alliance in the plastic surgery industry.

THE LEWIS OBI PLASTIC SURGERY CENTER'S FIRST NEWSLETTER

2011-01-19T08:00:00.000-05:00

Our plastic surgery patients will be receiving our first newsletter this week which will be published on a monthly basis. The newsletter will be filled with the latest news from the rapidly growing fields of cosmetic, reconstructive and plastic surgery. We will feature upcoming procedures, techniques, and products that are making their way into the plastic surgery field. We will also highlight happenings within our office and with our staff. Dr. Lewis Obi and Dr. John Murray will also contribute commentaries on topics of interest.

If you wish to receive the monthly newsletter, please fill out our contact form and request that you be put on our mailing list!

DR. LEWIS OBI AND DR. JOHN MURRAY ARE FIRST PLASTIC SURGEONS IN THE U. S. TO RECEIVE PALOMAR MEDICAL TECHNOLOGYʼS LIPOKIT SYSTEM

2011-01-18T15:06:00.003-05:00

During the first week in January, Palomar Medical Technology (manufacturer of the SlimLipo laser lipolysis system has selected Dr. Lewis Obi and Dr. John Murray to ship their first Lipokit Fat Processing Unit (FPU). This Bio-medical device was developed by Medi-Kahn Inc. and newly licensed by Palomar who acquired FDA approval for U.S. distribution. Based on medical research by South Korean plastic surgeon Hi Young Lee M.D., PhD., condensed fat processed by this system increases the population of stem cells thereby improving the retention of the transferred fat cells. Fat contains the highest population of stem cells of any tissue in the human body. The Lipokit is a closed system that allows the plastic surgeon to remove areas of unwanted fat (abdomen, thighs, etc), process the fat and transfer it as a natural filler within a closed sterile system in one sitting. Current techniques that Dr. Obi and other plastic surgeons have performed for decades are safe but with inconsistent results. Drs. Obi and Murray are both very excited to be on the cutting edge of this new technology with their first patients already on their surgery schedules. This new technique will be useful both in the area of aesthetic as well as reconstructive surgery. Large volumes of the patient's own fat may therefore be processed and used as a facial filler cosmetically and in the breast for reconstruction after mastectomy or lumpectomy. Practically every area of the human body may be a potential site for fat transfer with this technique.

HOLIDAY GREETINGS TO ALL. MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2011-01-01T14:08:00.000-05:00

This year Dr. Lewis Obi, Dr. John Murray and the staff of the Obi Plastic Surgery Clinic would like to extend our wishes that all of you experience the magic of the holiday season. At year’s end we also want to share our prayers for peace, good health and success in all of your endeavors.

MORE THAN 200 IN ATTENDANCE AT THE RECEPTION FOR DR. JOHN MURRAY

2010-12-15T09:02:00.008-05:00

Our staff, pictured above, in attendance at the reception for Dr. Murray on the 9th of December where more than 200 guests and dignitaries attended the event. In addition to introducing Dr. Murray, the guests were provided with an art and clinic tour of our 12,000 square foot facility. Attendees from Los Angeles, New York, Boston and other distant locations were impressed with the display of world class art at the clinic. A Harpist (pictured right) and Violist played in concert with the other festivities of the evening. The Samuel Wells Surgicenter at the clinic displayed the latest laser technology in the area of laser lipolysis (Slim Lipo platform) as well as the Novodaq Spy imaging system. Dr. John Murray, Dr. Lewis Obi and Memorial Medical Center will be the first Jacksonville providers of this revolutionary technology vital for enhancing results of reconstructive breast procedures.

STEM CELLS DERIVED FROM ADULT FAT

2010-12-15T08:00:00.000-05:00

Our November 17th blog mentioned the prospect of the Obi Plastic Surgery Clinic providing patients with the latest technology regarding the use of autologous fat fillers. Last week our facility was informed that we will be among the first providers of this new science. This will provide our patients with the option of large volume fillers for the face and other areas of the body utilizing the patient’s own fat cells. With this advanced procedure, fat may be taken from unwanted areas, concentrated into stem-cell rich fat and simultaneously transferred as a natural filler with more predictable longevity. As with the Palomar Slim Lipo technique of liposuction that Dr. Lewis Obi has performed on 250 patients during the past two years, this technique of fat transfer may be performed with minimal downtime. Both Dr. John Murray and Dr. Lewis Obi will be providing these procedures on patients at our Samuel Wells Surgicenter beginning next month. The applications of adult stem cell fat transfers in the mastectomy patient in the future is very exciting.

SLIM LIPO UPDATES & LASER TECHNIQUES INVOLVING ADVANCED ADULT STEM CELL

2010-11-17T14:33:00.006-05:00

Dr. Lewis Obi Completes 248 Slim Lipo Procedures In Two Years And Will Combine Laser Technique Utilizing Advanced Adult Stem Cell Research Technique.

Last weekend Dr. Lewis Obi was one of two plastic surgeons presenting at Palomarʼs Advanced Symposium on Slim Lipo™ at the Peabody Hotel in Orlando. This was only one of several presentations on laser lipolysis delivered by Dr. Obi during the past two years. Dr. John Murray was in attendance and also accompanied Dr. Obi to Atlanta a month ago to meet with Dr. H. Y. Lee from South Korea. Dr. Lee is not only a plastic surgeon but has a PhD in the biological sciences with 15 years of research and development in the field of adult concentrated stem cell fat. With this new technology unwanted fat is harvested, processed and re-injected in areas including the face, buttocks, breasts and hands with up to a 90% take. This technology is currently supported by Palomar Medical, the Burlington, Massachusetts company that developed Slim Lipo. Therefore, as with Slim Lipo, Dr. Lewis Obi will be one of the first providers in the area of adult stem cell concentrated fat transfers.

DR. LEWIS OBI AND DR. JOHN MURRAY IN THE NEWS

2010-11-17T14:04:00.013-05:00

Last week Dr. Lewis J. Obi and his new partner Dr. John D. Murray were featured in Resident™ newspaper with the story regarding a ten year relationship. The article titled Groundbreaking Change Arrives at Obi Plastic Surgery highlights the journey and their mission. Dr. Lewis Obi and Dr. Murray will also be featured on the cover of North Florida Doctors magazine next month. A formal reception party welcoming Dr. John Murray will be held next month at the Obi Plastic Surgery Clinic.

Read the article: http://www.obiplasticsurgery.com/pdfs/groundbreaking-plastic-surgery-dr-murray-article.pdf

Read the article on Resident

Dr. John Murray, Assistant Professor of Surgery, Division of Plastic Surgery at the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria, joins Dr. Le

2010-10-27T14:21:00.007-04:00

Dr. Lewis J. Obi is pleased to announce the partnership of Dr. John D. Murray into his practice. Dr. Murray was introduced to Dr. Lewis Obi in 2000 by his mentor Dr. John Bostwick of Emory University. The late Dr. Bostwick was a pioneer of breast reconstruction for breast cancer patients . He trained hundreds of eminent plastic surgeons, including Dr. John Murray, from the 1970ʼs until his death in 2001.

Dr. Murray served as the chief plastic surgeon at Susan Komen/University of Illinois for eight years and established the annual Susan Komen Breast Cancer Symposium. Dr. Murray will spearhead the effort to bring the Susan Komen Peoria system to the Jacksonville community of patients. To date there has been an enormous effort by the Jacksonville hospitals to provide quality care to breast cancer patients. Dr. Obi and Dr. Murray will surely complement these efforts.

In addition to continuing the legacy of quality care for all patients, Dr. Obi and Dr. Murray plan to establish a national Breast Cancer Symposium for the Jacksonville area in conjunction with Susan Komen/University of Illininois Medical College. This educational event will be a continuation of what Dr. Murray established in Peoria and will take place in Jacksonville next Spring.

Dr. John Murray is board certified by the American Board of Surgery and the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. For seven years he was a practicing physician with Illinois Plastic Surgery and an Assistant Professor of Surgery at the University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria. Dr. Murray received his BS from Furman University and his MD from Emory University School of Medicine. He completed residencies in General Surgery and Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Emory University. He is married to Dr. Paige Murray and together they have two beautiful daughters.

A welcoming reception for Dr. Murray will be held at the Obi Plastic Surgery Center in Jacksonville, in early December. For more information, please call Carole Tindell at 904-399-0905.

DR LEWIS OBI TO LECTURE AT AN ADVANCED LASER LIPOLYSIS SYMPOSIA

2010-10-12T08:28:00.005-04:00

On November 13th Dr. Lewis Obi will be one of the featured speakers at the Palomar Advanced Symposium featuring the Slim Lipo laser lipolysis (LifeSculpt) and other body sculpturing techniques. In April of this year Dr. Obi was a presenter at the annual American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS) in Washington D.C. He has presented, lectured and taught numerous plastic surgeons during the past two years. In addition to advanced laser techniques, the symposium in November includes a work shop on the advanced science of concentrating stem cells from human fat. This will provide the patient with a more effective and long lasting filler from the patient’s own fat. This new science will also be applicable in the area of breast reconstruction following mastectomy.

DR LEWIS OBI ATTENDS SUSAN KOMEN SYMPOSIA IN PEORIA

2010-10-12T08:25:00.005-04:00

Earlier this month Dr. Obi was the special guest of Dr. John Murray who chaired the Third Annual Breast Cancer Symposium sponsored by Susan G. Komen and University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria. During Dr. Obi’s three day visit he attended dozens of functions and lectures by world famous breast cancer physicians and experts. The symposium was originally organized by Dr. Murray who is a plastic surgeon that has worked with the Komen Center and the Illinois College of Medicine for the past seven years. For the past three years Drs. Lewis Obi and John Murray have been actively collaborating in an effort to bring the Peoria model of comprehensive breast cancer care to Jacksonville. Linda Maricle, Executive Director of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, assured Drs. Obi and Murray that her organization would support their efforts on behalf of breast cancer patients in Jacksonville.

Questions About LifeSculpt Laser Body Sculpting?

2010-09-07T09:56:00.006-04:00

We come across a lot of people who want to know more about the LifeSculpt and SlimLipo Laser Body Sculpting - as well as many other plastic surgery procedures. So in doing our part to answer any questions you may have we are proud to present our series of educational videos, begining with our LifeSculpt Laser Body Sculpting video. In this video, you'll find the answers to frequently asked LifeSculpt SlimLipo questions answered by me, Dr. Obi.

If you have any questions to plastic surgery procedures - even cosmetic and med spa procedures - that you would like to know more about, then submit them to carol@obiplasticsurgery.com or in the comment area below and your question may be featured on one of our medical videos!

LifeSculpt Demonstration Video - Courtesy of Palomar

2010-08-25T12:16:00.009-04:00

Thanks to Palomar, we have a demonstration video of LifeSculpt! The video features an animated version and a live demonstration of the procedure itself.

Contact Obi Plastic Surgery if you would like to schedule a LifeSculpt consultation. And be sure to visit our photo gallery to review before and after photos of our LifeSculpt patients.

VelaShape Cellulite Treatment Segment on Rachel Ray

2010-08-20T09:37:00.008-04:00

The VelaShape Cellulite Treatment was recently featured on the Rachel Ray Show - take a look at this video to see the amazing results yourself! Not only is it unbelievable, but it's the only FDA-approved treatment to reduce the thighs!

Be sure to contact our office at 904-399-0905 to schedule your VelaShape cellulite treatment and reduction appointment at our Renaissance Center for Cosmetic Renewal.

DR. LEWIS OBI ANNOUNCES THE ADDITION OF VELASHAPE™

2010-08-12T14:36:00.006-04:00

VelaShape™ is the 1st FDA-cleared non-invasive medical solution for circumferential reduction and the 1st FDA class II cleared platform for cellulite reduction. The VelaShape platform has also received the CE mark for non-invasive body contouring via temporary circumferential reduction and for reduction of cellulite. Powered by the revolutionary elos technology, VelaShape™ treats the deeper tissues, offering a measurable reduction in fat layers and the upper layers of the skin, resulting in cellulite and circumference reduction. It is an easy non-invasive, no downtime, comfortable deep therapeutic treatment. VelaShape™ features the revolutionary combination of Bi-Polar Radiofrequency (RF), Infrared Light Energy, plus Vacuum and Mechanical Massage. Used in conjunction with our Palomar SlimLipo™ laser lipolysis, the patient is then assured of optimal results with minimal down time. After years of research for a non-invasive treatment of cellulite and excess body fat, Dr. Obi has finally acquired a device which is supported by research both in the U.S. and Europe. This resulted from our need to replace our original and older technique of Endermologie with a more advanced device that would also enhance the already outstanding results that we have achieved with our SlimLipo patients. To date we have completed SlimLipo treatments on 222 patients including more than 500 anatomic zones. In addition to becoming one of the earliest providers of SlimLipo technology, Dr. Lewis Obi has lectured to and taught this technique to numerous plastic surgeons internationally. New and innovative applications of SlimLipo has been developed by Dr. Obi and now he is one of the first providers of VelaShape™ in combination with SlimLipo. This will advance the combined results of these two modalities to even a higher level. Initial VelaShape treatments are provided to our SlimLipo patients or the patient may elect to acquire a separate VelaShjape treatment package. An introductory package of 3 treatments which normally costs $800 is offered at this time for $400. Treatments are generally 30 minutes and are performed once a week, For details visit our Renaissance Center and click on VelaShape. You may also view these treatments at Syneron’s home page www.syneron.com.

DR. LEWIS OBI EDUCATIONAL UPDATES

2010-07-14T13:46:00.014-04:00

During the past month Dr. Lewis Obi has continued to remain on the cutting edge of plastic surgery on multiple fronts. During the past week, two experienced board certified plastic surgeons (Tennessee and Illinois) visited the Obi Plastic Surgery Center for preceptorships and learning experiences with Dr. Obi. Also during this period of time Dr. Lewis Obi was selected to lecture at an advanced International Slim Lipo Symposia in Orlando on November 11, 2010. By completing Slim Lipo on more than 215 patients during the past 19 months, Dr. Lewis Obi continues to lead the pioneering efforts with this revolutionary and new laser technology. Below are photos typical of a recent early result in a 55 year old patient who returned to work two days after the procedure.

Click on image below to view a larger picture

In addition to the usual applications of Slim Lipo, Dr. Obi has developed the
technique of laser breast reduction and breast lifts thus avoiding extensive scarring and down time.

Dr. Lewis Obi has been active in the field of reconstructive plastic surgery since he began his practice and today he continues to provide care in the areas of breast cancer, skin cancers including melanoma as well as traumatic deformities. It is interesting to note that the origin of the term “Plastic Surgery” has nothing to do with the synthetic polymer material plastic but originates from the Greek word plastikos: to mold or shape. As a medical student Dr. Lewis Obi wrote a paper on the history of plastic surgery which dates back at least 4000 years. This germinal paper was published internationally in “Medical World News”.

Another educational hallmark this month was the completion of a course by Dr. Lewis Obi on advanced cardiac life support (ACLS). Dr Obi was the first plastic surgeon in Jacksonville to become ACLS qualified and has maintained this certification for the past 32 years. This qualification provides the physician with the highest level of proficiency required if a patient develops any type of cardiac or pulmonary problem during surgery. ACLS certification requires consistent review and study with testing every 2 years. All of Dr. Obiʼs nurses are also ACLS certified on a bi-annual level.

Finally, the Obi Plastic Surgery Center has added the technique of Sclerotherapy, Spider Vein Treatment, to the list of services they provide. Nurse practitioner Michelle Zager has completed training for this technique and will provide treatments for superficial varicose veins of the legs and thighs. Please visit our Renaissance Center Med Spa in Jacksonville to learn more about Sclerotherapy for more information on this technique.

SlimLipo™ UPDATE AND SUMMER PROMOTION

2010-06-11T11:47:00.003-04:00

Dr. Lewis Obi to date has completed SlimLipo treatment of more than 200 patients and in more than 500 anatomic zones. Because of Dr. Obiʼs dedication and enormous experience with this new technology, Palomar has continued to rely on Dr. Obiʼs expertise in training other plastic surgeons. In recent months he has lectured nationally and also teaches at his licensed plastic surgery center in Jacksonville.

We would like to share our depth of experience and expertise by offering SlimLipo patients 20% professional courtesy for future procedures. This offer will be honored throughout the summer ending on Labor Day. The summer is a great time to get in shape and start losing inches. Within two weeks after SlimLipo you can be at the beach with the new “you”.

Join Us for our Peel Day!

2010-06-02T14:04:00.004-04:00

June 16th from 9-5
1 Day Only
$125
Microdermabrasion
Vitalize Peel
Skin Medica Sun Protection with SPF 50
($275 value)
Includes Free Gift!!

Call Now to Book Your Appointment
399-0905 or 399-4555
Space is Limited

Don’t Forget Botox Mondays
$9 a unit
Get a TNS Line Refine to Enhance Your Botox
$50 - (Reg $75)

SKIN CANCERS, SUN EXPOSURE AND SUNSCREENS - WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

2010-05-21T09:16:00.009-04:00

Recently, Dr. Lewis Obi of Obi Plastic Surgery in Jacksonville, Florida, was interviewed by the news media regarding his professional experience in the area of skin cancers and the implications of sun exposure. This was prior to this week’s Florida Times Union article on the FDA concerns regarding chemicals used in the vast majority of sunscreens.

Click here to view the attached article (in PDF format) for valuable information - not only regarding the dangers of solar exposure but how to select an effective and safe sunscreen for all age groups.

Dr. Lewis Obi has effectively integrated his background as a practicing pharmacist with both his aesthetic and reconstructive plastic surgery practice. For almost forty years Dr. Obi has treated all three types of major skin cancers including melanomas. Click here to read more about his skin cancer treatments and removal.

SKIN CANCERS, SUN EXPOSURE AND SUNSCREENS

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY FROM OBI PLASTIC SURGERY

2010-05-04T09:01:00.004-04:00

Doctor Obi and his staff would like to wish all of the wonderful mothers of our practice a blessed and Happy Mother’s Day. All of our patients are encouraged to check out our special Mother’s Day celebration party featuring special services by our nurse practioner Micheller Zager and Renaissance specialist Denise Merlo. Our entire staff will host a special celebration which is sponsored by Allergan™ and also featuring Palomar’s Slim Lipo. Please contact our office for details. 904-399-0905

THE LATEST NEWS AT OBI PLASTIC SURGERY CENTER IN JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA

2010-05-04T08:54:00.004-04:00

This past week Dr. Lewis Obi was in attendance at the annual meeting of the Aesthetic Society of Plastic Surgeons meeting in Washington, D. C.

On Tuesday morning he presented his paper entitled “A Novel Approach to Non-Surgical Neck Tightening” which was well-received by a large audience of plastic surgeons attending the meeting. This week Dr. Lewis Obi will be one of three plastic surgeon presenters on a national Palomar Webinar which will focus on body sculpting.

The Obi Plastic Surgery Center is finalizing efforts to integrate a comprehensive breast care center into our licensed ambulatory surgery center in Jacksonville, Florida. The Samuel Wells Surgicenter is pursuing a partnership with various local hospitals in these efforts and will spearhead efforts to bring the first accredited comprehensive breast care center into the Jacksonville area.

The Dr. Oz Show Features Palomar Medical's SlimLipo Body Sculpting Laser

2010-04-01T14:12:00.005-04:00

Video take a few seconds to load - please standby

On March 17th, Dr. Oz featured one of Dr. Lewis Obi’s colleagues, plastic surgeon, Dr. Kenneth Rothaus of New York City, performing SlimLipo of the neck.

Dr. Lewis Obi was one of the early plastic surgeons following Dr. Routhaus’ pioneering efforts with Palomar’s cutting-edge LifeSculpt Technology. Next month, Dr. Obi will be featured on Palomar’s webinar presenting his 16-month experience in 180 patients - including Slim Lipo on the 63 necks. Also, next month, Dr. Obi will be featured as a panel speaker at the Annual Meeting of the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons in Washington D.C.

As demonstrated on the Dr. Oz “Age Erasers” segment, dramatic results in the neck and other body areas have been achieved with Palomar’s Laser Assisted Liposuction procedure. The neck tightening procedure may be performed under local anesthesia and is minimally invasive with the patient returning to work the next day.

Renaissance Center for Cosmetic Renewal New Website

2010-03-08T11:20:00.004-05:00

Dr. Lewis Obi is in the process of updating the web pages for our Jacksonville medical day spa center. The Renaissance Center has been an integral part of our plastic surgery practice for 11 years with the recent addition of many new services. The acquisition of the Palomar Starlux 500™ platform includes “fractional skin resurfacing”. The Palomar Lux 1540 Fractional Laser handpiece delivers light in an array of narrow, focused “microbeams” to create columns of coagulation within the skin. The heated tissue within the columns initiates a natural healing process that forms new, healthy tissue. This results in a fresher, more youthful skin tone and texture. In addition to facial rejuvenation the Starlux 500 also includes specialized hand pieces for permanent hair reduction, treatment of spider veins and varicose veins, treatment of acne and other conditions.

Keep checking the Obi Plastic Surgery web site for the newly launched Renaissance Center pages!

Dr. Lewis Obi Slim Lipo™ (Life Sculpt™) Presentation to the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons National Meeting in D.C. April, 2010

2010-03-08T10:44:00.004-05:00

Dr. Lewis Obi was recently notified that his paper on the science and clinical application of Palomarʼs™ Slim Lipo for neck tightening was accepted for presentation at ASAPS national meeting next month. Dr Obi has been an active member of ASAPS for more than 30 years. The mission statement from the ASAPS website states: “The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) founded in 1967, is the leading professional organization of plastic surgeons certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery who specialize in cosmetic plastic surgery. With 2,400 members in the U.S., Canada, and many other countries, ASAPS is at the forefront of innovation in aesthetic plastic surgery around the world. The mission of the Society includes medical education, public education and patient advocacy.”

Dr. Obiʼs paper entitled “A Novel Approach to Nonsurgical Neck Tightening” reviews his first 12 months experience in 43 patients. After almost 16 months of clinical experience Dr. Lewis Obi has completed Slim Lipo procedures on more than 170 patients including more than 60 necks. Some of these results may be viewed on our website. The vast majority of neck patients have been able to return to work in 2 to 3 days.

To learn more about Dr. Obi and his endevour with LifeSculpt, visit http://www.obiplasticsurgery.com.

Dr. Lewis Obi: Guest Speaker for English Speaking Union

2010-02-09T15:59:00.003-05:00

On Sunday, February 8, 2010, Dr. Lewis Obi was the guest speaker at the English Speaking Union which convened at the Timuquana Country Club in Jacksonville, Florida. Although Dr. Obiʼs talk was centered around American Modernist Manierre Dawson, he shared his serendipitous journey into how the fusion of art and medicine has fulfilled his life. “Profession: patron of the arts...Career: plastic surgeon” was the basis of his presentation to a culturally elite audience. In addition to Dr. Obiʼs active involvement with Manierre Dawson during the past 30 years, Obi shared his role as patron, biographer and publisher of British artist Daniel Samuels. As a result of this work Dr. Obi was inducted as a fellow of the Royal Society of Art, London in 1985. Thus Dr. Obiʼs titles of M.D. and FRSA reflects his dual passion and dedication to medicine and art.

The English-Speaking Union is an international charity founded in 1918 to promote "international understanding and friendship through the use of the English language." One of last year's speaker was British author Flora Fraser, step daughter of 2005 Nobel Laureate in Literature Harold Pinter. One of the next speakers will be congresswoman Patricia Schroeder. At the end of World War I, Winston Churchill was instrumental in the formation of the union. Ironically, Lord Charles Churchill (Winston Churchill’s great nephew) accompanied Dr. Obi to the 1985 New York City premier of Daniel Samuels work. The international art firm of Obiarts, Inc. was founded by Dr. Obi as a means of sponsoring artists such as Daniel Samuels FRSA.

JACKSONVILLE'S ACTIVE PLASTIC SURGEON

2010-02-08T10:09:00.003-05:00

Although Dr. Lewis Obi is one of the busiest plastic surgeons in Jacksonville, he dedicates significant time writing papers, training other Jacksonville plastic surgeons, developing new techniques and also an extraordinary dedication to his plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery patients. Currently he is actively completing two clinical presentations for publication as well as an art lecture. His next major event is a presentation on American Modernist Manierre Dawson to the English Club on February 7, 2010. A life long dedication to the arts is quickly apparent once you enter the Obi Plastic Surgery Clinic. Dr. Obi’s work with British artist Daniel Samuels in the 1980’s won him an appointment as a fellow of The Royal Society of Art in London (FRSA 1985). More than a dozen original Daniel paintings are on permanent display at the Obi clinic.

SLIM LIPO - LifeSculpttm - UPDATE: SAFETY ISSUES AND EXPERIENCE

2010-02-03T16:05:00.008-05:00

This week Dr. Lewis Obi will have completed Life Sculpt treatments, with the Slim Lipo™ platform in 160 patients over a 14 month period. He has experienced unprecedented success and safety with this procedure as well as a high degree of patient satisfaction. Because of Dr. Obiʼs leadership and expertise in this new technology, patients travel from distant national and international locations seeking these treatments. As the first plastic surgeon in Jacksonville and one of the first in the United States, Dr. Obi has been on the cutting edge of this new technology. In addition to treating traditional areas such as the abdomen, flanks, thighs, arms and neck, this new laser treatment has been a significant tool in the area of breast surgery. With larger breasts, Dr. Lewis Obi has been able to non-surgically achieve a one bra size breast reduction. Life Sculpt™ has also been used in conjunction with breast enlargement procedures to minimize breast sag without extra incisions or scars. As an innovator of this Slim Lipo™ technique Dr. Obi is currently presenting his results to other plastic surgeons. With the recent upgrade of the Slim Lipo™ platform from a 24 watt to a 40 watt system, the plastic surgeon is able to apply more than 3 times the energy level into skin tightening. Dr. Lewis Obiʼs performs all of these procedures in his licensed ambulatory surgery center with a full complement of professional staffing. This highly protected operating room environment includes a registered nurse, laser technician and licensed surgical assistant which we feel is mandatory for patient safety. As a result of this highly professional level of surgical care, Dr. Lewis Obi has had no complications with any of his Palomar Life Sculpt™ patients.

It's a Valentines Day Celebration at Obi Plastic Surgery

2010-01-27T16:09:00.006-05:00

Come join us for our Valentines Day Celebration!
February 8th 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Cheese, Desserts, and Beverage

Get Ready for Valentines Day
Now is the season to peel
Vitalize Peels now ½ off $75 for a very limited time
Are You Ready for Swim Suit Season?

Laser Hair Removal Specials
Bikini $99
Underarms $99
Combo $149
Lower Legs $250

Latisse Special - $95
**If you bring a Friend**

All products 20% off until the end of February
****no special orders in stock items only****

Sweet Heart Package
25 Units Botox
Syringe of Juvederm Ultra Plus
Syringe of Juvederm Ultra Plus
$675

Kiss Me Package
Syringe Juvederm Ultra Plus
Latisse
Vivite Lip Plumper Vivite Lip Plumper
$550

Botox Available for $9 unit
Register for Brilliant Distinctions and save $25 today

Please Call ASAP Space is Limited
904-399-0905
Click here to download the invitation!

WISHING EVERYONE A HAPPY, HEALTHY AND PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR!

2010-01-22T14:01:00.001-05:00

As we enter into a new decade of uncertainty with governmental legislation for health care reforms i.e. government take over of medicine, Dr. Lewis Obi and his staff are poised for a continued privatized system of medicine. In the works is an active effort to establish a privately based comprehensive breast care center free of government intervention. It is commendable that our local hospitals are establishing specialized centers of breast care. However if our political leaders are successful in their attempts to socialize our health care system then the care provided at these centers would be significantly compromised. Historically, in countries such as England, Canada and France, socialization drove patients to private care centers primarily outside of their national boundaries. As Americans, we will never accept rationed or mediocre healthcare and therefore the demand for a privately based system will escalate. Discerning patients deserve a high quality of medicare care both in the areas of aesthetic as well as reconstructive surgery. Plastic surgery has always been on the forefront of patient advocacy and in the future the last bastion of free enterprise medicine will be in the hands of our plastic surgeons. The history of plastic surgery dates back almost 5000 years as noted by Dr. Lewis Obi’s medical school publication in “Medical World News”. 56 years ago the first kidney transplant was performed by a plastic surgeon, Dr. Joseph Murray, at the Peter Bent Brigham Hospital in Boston. He later went on to win the Nobel Prize for his accomplishment. Nobel laureates were held in high esteem prior to the dilution of this award by recent political events. Modern day plastic surgeons are comprised of the leading physicians in medicine and with the most comprehensive training. Therefore, as physicians and as plastic surgeons, we have an obligation to lead the cause of preserving the sacred doctor patient relationship free of overbearing governmental intervention.

SLIM LIPO UPDATE

2009-12-21T10:41:00.006-05:00

On November 14th Dr. Lewis Obi presented his Slim Lipo first year experience in 132 patients to an international audience of plastic surgeons in Fort Lauderdale. His presentation was rated as one of the best by participants at the meeting. Soon after this meeting Dr. Obi was asked to submit an abstract to The American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS) for consideration to present his paper in April of 2010. Of particular interest were the results achieved with Slim Lipo treatments of the neck. In many patients surgical neck lifts has been replaced with the non invasive laser lipolysis treatment known as Slim Lipo. This is usually a 30 minute procedure that may be performed with the use of local anesthesia and with a down time of 1 to 2 days.

Click here to view our photo gallery of Slim Lipo patients. Here, you can view amazing before and after photos of these patients.

THE SO CALLED “IDEAL IMPLANT”

2009-12-21T10:12:00.004-05:00

Many of our patients have been inquiring about the highly marketed and touted “Ideal Implant”. First of all the “Ideal Implant” is not a FDA approved device as has been advertised in recent paid for Sunday Florida Times Union articles. The “Ideal Implant” is a triple lumen saline device which is a variation of multi-lumen devices attempted during the past three decades. Dr. Obi was indeed one of the earliest pioneers of saline breast implants publishing his first study in 1975 after a 3 year trial of saline breast implants. From 1992 to 2007 Dr. Obi was a participating plastic surgeon with an adjuvant study of silicone gel breast implants conducted by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration). During this period of time the two primary American manufacturers of silicone implants (Allergan & Mentor) have developed safe and state of the art gel breast implants. The international standard for safe and more permanent breast implants is not saline but silicone gel. Prefilled saline and multi-lumen breast implants have had a terrible track record in terms of deflation and implant failure. As with the FDA study of silicone gel implants which extended over a period of 15 years, the so called “Ideal Implant” will have to undergo similar scrutiny.

What You Should Know About The Excise Tax on Elective Cosmetic Medical Procedures

2009-12-04T09:25:00.005-05:00

I'm writing you today about an issue that affects not only plastic surgeons but everyone who utilizes our services for anything from Botox to Tummy Tucks.

Perhaps you've heard of the current healthcare bill before the US Senate. Page 2045, Section 9017, Excise Tax on Elective Cosmetic Medical Procedures included in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act translates to a tax on ALL cosmetic procedures as partial payment for the healthcare overhaul our current administration is attempting to implement.

So what's the problem?

YOU would be paying the tax, the FIRST time this country has levied a tax on patients for medical procedures.

This is a discriminatory tax. According to the Aesthetic Society Annual Statistics, 91% of all cosmetic procedures are requested by women.

This will not have considerable consequences on the wealthiest patients but, as usual, affects the middle class. Working women, soccer moms, and scores of others who carefully save and budget to improve their appearance and self esteem will be penalized for doing so.

Procedures such as breast reduction that have been cited in the literature for improving self esteem and quality of life would be taxed as well.

This provision places physicians like me in the role of tax collector and holds physicians liable should an individual fail or refuse to pay the tax.

Is that the relationship you want with your medical provider?

Please help us stop this silly and penetrative tax. Contact our Florida senators by clicking on the links below -

http://billnelson.senate.gov/contact/email.cfm

http://lemieux.senate.gov/public/?p=EmailSenatorLeMieux

Tell them that you are against this tax - together we can fight for your right to no government interference in medical care and stop this discriminatory measure against women!

Palomar Medical Technologies Inc. Partnering With Samuel Wells Surgicenter and The Renaissance Center for Cosmetic Renewal

2009-11-11T13:25:00.010-05:00

Since our last blog entry on October 7, 2009 there has been an enormous amount of activity at the Lewis Obi plastic surgery center. This week Palomar Medical
Technologies Inc. in partnerships with the Samuel Wells Surgicenter and The
Renaissance Center for Cosmetic Renewal sponsored an advanced laser event for Dr. Obiʼs patients - click here to view the invite. Almost 100 participants were in attendance for a review of 132 patients who have been treated with the Slim Lipo Life Sculpt procedure during the past 12 months. In addition to the cutting edge Slim Lipo technology,Palomar and Dr. Lewis Obi introduced the newly installed Palomar Starlux 500 system with the most advanced laser treatment techniques including fractional skin resurfacing, acne and rosacea lasers as well as lasers for permanent hair reduction and scar treatments. The recent acquisition of the Slim Lipo system combined with the Palomar 500 Starlux IPL system places the Obi Plastic Surgery Center in the forefront nationally.

Also during the past month Dr. Lewis Obi has been actively involved academically with nationally recognized plastic surgeons. As a key member of the faculty, Dr. Obi will be presenting a paper at an advanced laser symposium in Fort Lauderdale on November the 14th. In the field of reconstructive surgery key discussions and negotiations continue to be conducted at Dr. Obiʼs licensed surgery center. A blueprint for the development of a privately based accredited comprehensive breast care center will be presented in the near future.

Cosmetic Renewal Specials

Special Introductory Offers good until 12/31/2009

10% off all SlimLipo procedures

Fractional Laser Resurfacing for treatment of wrinkles, acne scars, skin tightening, hard to treat brown spots and facial veins.
Package of 4 for $1200, that’s $1200 savings!
or $400 for each individual treatment
and with each package purchased receive a FREE after care product.

Other Special Offers

Laser Hair Removal
$99 Bikini
$99 Underarms
$149 Bikini and Underarms

$99 Photofacials

SkinMedica Line Eraser for $50, a $78 value

Don’t Forget Botox Mondays
$9.00 unit
20% off your Revale Skin Care Products with any Botox Purchase

THE “TOTAL CARE” PLASTIC SURGERY CENTER CONCEPT

2009-10-08T08:30:00.002-04:00

The Obi Plastic Surgery center was the first comprehensive licensed plastic surgery center in Florida. The center has a unique 33 year track record of safety and delivery of quality care both in the field of reconstructive as well as cosmetic plastic surgery. A totally new paradigm for plastic surgery has been proposed for the future in order to adapt to any major changes in the American health care system. The goal is to continue providing a high level of care safely and at an affordable cost to our patients. However to maintain this legacy renewed efforts are ongoing for the addition of experienced professionals at all levels of staffing. Last year significant resources were dedicated not only towards technological devices such as the Slim Lipo laser but also maintenance of professional staffing. Similar investments are continuing with the future goals as outlined above.

SLIM LIPO UPDATE

2009-10-07T10:28:00.035-04:00

This week Dr. Lewis Obi completed his 120th Slim Lipo case during the past nine months. More than 300 anatomic areas were treated since November 2008 establishing the Obi Plastic Surgery Clinic as one of the senior and premier centers for the Palomar Life Sculpt Slim Lipo system. During the past two weeks, Dr. Obi was involved with the training and preceptorship of almost 20 plastic surgeons from not only the Jacksonville area, but from Illinois, Tennessee and other major Florida cities. Eminent plastic surgeons worldwide consult and visit with Dr. Obi on a regular basis not only for laser lipolysis technology but other major areas of plastic surgery. Dr. Lewis Obi will be one of the featured speakersfor Slim Lipo laser technology on November 14, 2009 at a major symposia in Fort Lauderdale.

COMPREHENSIVE BREAST CARE

2009-10-05T11:26:00.006-04:00

Dr. Lewis Obi is continuing his efforts to expand and enhance his licensed surgery center, the Samuel Wells Surgicenter, through ongoing partnership efforts with premier talent in the field of reconstructive breast surgery. The Obi Plastic Surgery Center is actively involved not only with the most advanced aesthetic techniques such as Slim Lipo, breast augmentation and facial rejuvination but also in a wide array of reconstructive procedures. There is a unique synergism that occurs when providing both cosmetic and reconstructive services to our patients. Reconstructive patients often seek cosmetic procedures and similarly cosmetic patients occasionally require reconstructive surgery.

“LIFE STYLE FACELIFT” DEFINED BY DR. LEWIS OBI

2009-08-31T14:00:00.011-04:00

Every three to five years, new names for allegedly "revolutionary techniques" for facial rejuvination emerge into the mainstream media. A recent example is the so-called "lifestyle facelift" which was preceded by the MACS lift, feather lift and more remotely the so-called "minilift." These titles are not propogated by our plastic surgery society but by more enterprising surgeons from various specialties. The “lunchtime” lift is another recent example of marketing ploys.

Dr. Obi has always kept-up with current techniques in plastic surgery along with personally developing new techniques in his specialty. A good example is the patientʼs photographs below taken at two weeks post surgery.

The procedures performed includes Dr. Obi's technique of brow lifting (developed 25 years ago), upper blepharoplasties, facelift and Slim Lipo tightening of the neck. The so-called "life style facelift" is slightly less-invasive but with more limited results and with less enduring improvement. There is no significant difference in down time nor cost to the patient with the more clinically established procedures.

THE COMPLETE PLASTIC SURGERY CENTER CONCEPT

2009-08-12T16:51:00.001-04:00

Dr. Lewis J. Obi, M.D. P.A., Samuel Wells Surgicenter and Renaissance - Center for Cosmetic Renewal will continue as the premier center for both reconstructive and esthetic services in spite of threatening government take over of our health care system. Dr. Obiʼs efforts to establish a new paradigm for his specialty continues and will preserve a private style of medical care with a high level of safety and professionalism. The team of professionals at the Obi Plastic Surgery Center are competent, caring and very dedicated to every individual patient. There is a high demand for this type of delivery system in our present health care environment which is in eminent danger by proposed legislation. Regardless of what may occur with the American health care system, our brand of medicine will never be compromised.

DR. LEWIS OBI IS APPOINTED AS A PALOMAR SLIM LIPO TEACHING CONSULTANT

2009-08-12T16:50:00.001-04:00

After eight months of experience and completion of 100 Slim Lipo patients, Dr. Obi was officially appointed as a national consultant with Palomar Medical Technologies Inc. To date numerous plastic surgeons have benefited from Dr. Obiʼs skill and experience not only in the field of plastic surgery but also with cutting edge technology such as laser lipolysis. In November of this year Dr. Obi will be featured as one of the major speakers at a national symposia on laser lipolysis in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

DR. OBI FEATURED ON WJXT JACKSONVILLE NEWS PROMOTING LIFESCULPT POWERED BY SLIMLIPO LASER LIPOSUCTION PROCEDURE

2009-07-07T09:56:00.005-04:00

Recently, Obi Plastic Surgery was featured on local Jacksonville, Florida news station WJXT News4Jax for his recent endeavours into the world of liposuction. He spoke about the LifeSculpt procedure and how quickly and virtually painless the procedure really is.

Be sure to follow us on Youtube at http://www.youtube.com/user/DrLObi

NEWLY ADDED PHOTO GALLERY FEATURING PLASTIC SURGERY BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS

2009-07-07T09:41:00.007-04:00

Recently, Obi Plastic Surgery added before and after photos of plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures to the Obi Plastic Surgery web site. The new photo gallery features procedures such as:

Breast Enlargement and Augmentation
Breast Lift
Breast Reconstruction
LifeSculpt powered by SlimLipo
Liposuction
Face Lift
Forehead Lift
Nose Surgery
And much more...

Be sure to view each photo gallery and contact the plastic surgery office of Dr. Lewis Obi and schedule a one-on-one consultation today!

ALLERGAN NATRELLE™ BREAST IMPLANTS - RECENT STATEMENT ABOUT DR. LEWIS OBI

2009-06-24T13:59:00.002-04:00

"Dr. Lewis Obi continues with cutting edge techniques in the area of breast surgery having established himself as one of the early pioneers of saline implants. While completing 15 years of clinical studies with the FDA adjuvant study project Dr. Obi integrated the use of the new generation safe silicone gel breast implants.

As with many advanced breast surgery centers Dr. Obi prefers introduction of implants through an areola approach which offers many advantages over the traditional approaches. You may view results on their newly constructed photo gallery."

- Tracy Wenk, Allergan Natrelle

Link to Dr. Obi's Breast Augmentation Photo Gallery

Link to the new Plastic Surgery Photo Gallery

PALOMAR INTRODUCES LIFESCULPT™ BY SLIMLIPO

2009-06-24T13:44:00.006-04:00

Palomar Medical Technologies Inc. has introduced their new marketing trade mark LifeSculpt™ to market the SlimLipo system. The SlimLipo name is retained and is the laser platform for this innovative technique. In addition, Dr. Lewis Obi was one of the few plastic surgeons receiving an upgraded laser system with energy levels increased from 24 watts to 40 watts. The increased wattage allows for quicker treatment of major areas of fatty deposition such as the abdomen and thighs while maintaining safety.

Dr. Obi was one of the early providers of this cutting edge laser technology and after seven months, has successfully treated more than 80 patients. This week Dr. Obi will be providing training sessions for plastic surgeons outside the Jacksonville area.

THE OBI PLASTIC SURGERY AMBULATORY SURGERY CENTER

2009-05-01T12:31:00.006-04:00

This week, the Samuel Wells Surgicenter successfully underwent its 21st annual inspection by the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA). Dr. Lewis Obi established the first licensed and comprehensive plastic surgery center in the state of Florida and it continues to provide quality care in a safe environment. Licensed centers in contrast to accredited centers have to maintain a higher level of staffing and physical plant requirements.

To learn more about the Samuel Wells Surgicenter at Obi Plastic Surgery, contact our plastic surgery office today!

PLASTIC SYMPOSIA

2009-05-01T12:21:00.004-04:00

One week ago Dr. Lewis Obi, with Palomar Medical Technology Inc., presented the new Slim Lipo technology to a group of local Jacksonville plastic surgeons. In addition to a comprehensive clinical review, two live surgeries were conducted for the visiting plastic surgeons to view first hand. As one of the pioneering plastic surgeons, Dr. Obi has completed 60 Slim Lipo (laser assisted) liposuctioning procedures during the past five months. In spite of Slim Lipo’s national success Dr. Lewis Obi continues today as the sole Jacksonville provider of this advanced technology. Equally impressive is that Dr. Obi has become a professional consultant for Palomar on a national level.

For more information regarding these clinical reviews or the SLIM Lipo procedure, please contact the plastic surgery office of Obi Plastic Surgery or call us at 904-399-4555.

Community Contributions

2009-03-13T14:41:00.006-04:00

Dr. Lewis Obi has always been a major advocate of establishing a comprehensive breast care center in Jacksonville. His efforts have intensified during the past year and he hopes to see his dreams for women with breast cancer become a reality this year.

Every family and work place is replete with victims of this epidemic disease. Jacksonville leads the nation with dedicated professionals and volunteers as well as expansive breast care facilities. These resources continue to expand and consolidate because of our broad based support.

For additional information in any of these areas feel free to contact Dr. Lewis Obi or Carole Tindell, Clinic Director, at 904 399-0905 or email to carole@obiplasticsurgery.com.

Botox and Soft Tissue Fillers at Obi Plastic Surgery

2009-03-13T14:32:00.002-04:00

In the area of soft tissue fillers, Dr. Lewis Obi is one of the premier surgeons in the United States providing safe and effective procedures. Combined with Botox™ a full array of fillers allow our patients quick facial rejuvination with little or no down time. The fillers include Alergan’s™ Juviderm Ultra and Juviderm Ultra Plus as well as Bioform Corporation Radiesse™. These semi-permanent fillers are sometimes combines with fat injections if utilized with more invasive surgical procedures. At Obi Plastic Surgery, we have safely and effectively utilized both natural and synthetic fillers for more than 30 years.

More About Breast Enlargements and Breast Reconstructions

2009-03-13T14:10:00.005-04:00

Author's Note: This post is intended to shed light on the recent achievements within the breast augmentation, reconstruction and implant industry as well as Dr. Obi's personal contributions to these studies and achievements.

Also of significance in the area of breast enlargement in Jacksonville, Dr. Lewis Obi has made significant contributions both with saline and silicone gel implants. In the area of saline implants, Dr. Lewis Obi was one of the early American pioneers of this device. In 2007 Dr. Obi completed 15 years of study with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as an adjuvant study center with the use of silicone gel breast implants. These studies resulted in approval by the FDA for a much larger population of patients to choose silicone gel implants. Today the majority of both cosmetic and reconstructive breast patients elect to use the modern generation gel implants. Allergan™ brand breast implants, Natrelle, are offered by our practice as well as the specialized Mentor breast implants. For more than 35 years Dr. Lewis Obi has been performing cutting edge breast reconstructive as well as breast cosmetic procedures.

JACKSONVILLE SLIM LIPO UPDATE

2009-03-13T14:05:00.005-04:00

It has been less than 4 months since I have performed my first SLIM LIPO procedure and already have performed this procedure on more than 40 patients and treated more than 100 total body areas (eg. neck, breasts, chest, back, abdomen, total torso, thighs and knees) with near 100% patient satisfaction. At 3 months there has been significant reduction of fat and skin tightening in practically all of the patients treated. Obi Plastic Surgery is still the only plastic surgery center in Jacksonville with this technology. Please revisit out SLIM LIPO photo gallery to view these very early results.

Introducing SLIM Laser Liposuction

2008-11-25T16:04:00.003-05:00

We are so very proud to introduce SLIM Laser Liposuction at Obi Plastic Surgery!

Unlike other laser or liposuction treatments, the SLIM Procedure™ uses advanced technology to deliver dual wavelengths of laser light, specifically designed to easily melt fat in large areas—with less downtime, little to no bruising, and remarkable results.

Unlike traditional liposuction, SlimLipo is an effective device for melting fat and not simply tearing through tissue structure. The result is less body trauma and significant fat removal and dermal heating. The heating of dermal tissue has been shown to have skin tightening results.

Visit our web site at Jacksonville Plastic Surgery for more information and freqently asked questions about the new SLIM Laser Liposuction!

Semper Fi

2008-09-17T14:18:00.003-04:00

The best deal I ever made was pledging my service to America and enlisting in the United States Marine Corps. Not only did I have the honor of defending the greatest country in the world, but my training as a Marine gave me the wisdom, courage, discipline and sensitivity to chart a thrilling and challenging destiny. Being a Marine led me to the rewarding path of becoming a plastic and reconstructive surgeon and the founder of Obiarts, an international art corporation.

I was born and raised in Jacksonville, the fifth of eight children. I grew up in Lackawanna on the Westside. My family lived in a modest three-room house, which was part of a grocery store. I never thought of myself as restricted and poor; instead, I relished the freedom of sleeping on a porch swing or camping out in the front yard with my brothers. Life was an adventure. And everywhere I looked, I saw opportunity. My positive outlook stemmed from the inspiring stories my father shared with me. Habib Obi was raised in a small Christian community in what is today known as Iraq. In his childhood, the region was known as Mesopotamia and under control of the Ottomans. With great foresight, my father’s family found a way to get him out of Mesopotamia, through Argentina, and finally to the United States. The first thing my father did upon arriving in America, as a homage to his freedom, was join the United States Army.

Through my father, I was raised with the spirit of adventure and a heart of gratitude. I loved the opportunity to exp and work. Needing little sleep- perhaps it was the porch swing after all – I would awake in the early morning hours and start my day working at a bakery. After school (although I skipped the majority of classes daily due to sheer boredom), I expanded my enterprises to selling papers (The Jacksonville Journal) and peddling peanuts at the ballpark. I was proud of the money I earned and excited to hand it over to my mother. My mother would hug me tightly and whisper in broken English that I was not to tell my father. I had no inkling that I was eventually making more money than my father. But I would respect the sparkle in my mom’s eye as she gave me half the money back for my own savings, and kept the other half for the family. It was our secret.
My mother, Raina Obi, was delightful-fun loving, kind and easily persuaded by my ways. When I decided to join the Marines and drop out of high school, I was underage by two years. But I didn’t let that get in my way. I had my mother sign the papers, knowing she couldn’t read English. I simply told her I was joining a club called the Sea Scouts.

When I arrived at the Marine Corps boot camp, I deeply regretted (for myself) that I had misinformed my mother. My request to call her and clear up the matter was denied with great laughter. I realized there was no turning back. In hindsight, this was the best thing that could have happened to me. My maverick, independent ways were put into focus during my three months at boot camp. A sobering reality. Yet the same drill instructors who beat me down into nothing, ended up building me into a person I had no idea existed inside. These drill instructors say my potential and forced me to do the same.

As a Marine (and later as a Naval Medical Officer), I had many assignments including setting up M.A.S.H., units and makeshift hospitals. I saw first-hand the miracle of doctors saving lives and their heartaches over losing lives. In the military, I witnessed complicated reconstructive surgery on burn victims, amputees and other suffering from massive deformities. I knew in an instant that my calling was to be a surgeon. But there was an obvious obstacle. I never finished any meaningful high school curriculum. I expressed my desire to attend medical school and was given an aptitude test through the Marine Corps. Much to my surprise, I scored higher than I ever believed possible. I was then guided to finish my high school requirements and quickly began attending college classes under the GI Bill.

I was accepted into medical school, but could not celebrate my achievement because I had no way to afford the cost of attending. I never gave up. Instead, I found an alternate route. My training as a Marine had taught me focus, perseverance and patience. I opted to become a pharmacist, graduating the five-year program at the University of Florida in three years. I returned to Jacksonville and worked a s a pharmacist at Owens in Riverside, saving every penny towards my real passion of becoming a surgeon.

A couple of years later, I began medical school at the University of Miami. Being a pharmacist had served me well. Not only did I continue my pharmacy work to financially support myself through medical school, but the knowledge I gained as a pharmacist was invaluable to my studies as a doctor.

My four years as a medical student were exhilarating. I interned in the United States Navy rotating through the specialties of general surgery, orthopedic surgery, internal medicine, OB/GYN and plastic surgery – knowing I always wanted to study the art and science of plastic surgery-knowing I always wanted to study the art and science of plastic surgery.

During my residency, I studied cardiovascular surgery, plastic surgery, hand surgery and maxillo-facial surgery. The leaders of the field-doctors J. William Littler, Ralph Mallard, Charlie Ammons and Tom Baker – also became my mentors and supporters.

After graduation, I moved back to Jacksonville to begin my practice in plastic and reconstructive surgery. In my mind, I never forgot the training I received as a Marine and later as a Naval Medical Officer. This experience inspired me to undertake the pioneering idea of building a free-standing center for plastic surgery in 1976. By 1987, after an arduous road of challenges, I opened the first comprehensive, licensed ambulatory surgical center for plastic surgery in the state of Florida. I am an ardent proponent of patient safety and continue to work with plastic surgeons throughout the state of Florida in encouraging them to build their own ambulatory surgical centers.

My love for the art and science of plastic surgery also attracted me to the visual art of painting and sculpture. I began studying art history in my spare time and before long became an avid collector of art. I was, and continue to be, an eclectic collector – relishing 19th century British watercolors, 20th century symbolists and surrealists and the glass/crystal of Tiffany, Steubens and Baccarat. My fascination with Greek mythology serendipitously brought me in contact with an extraordinary British artist, Daniel Samuels, who also became a close friend and mentor. It was because of Daniel that I was inspired to establish Obiarts Inc., an international art company that developed an exclusive series of lithographs by Daniel entitled, Olympians, Gods and Heroes. The launching celebration for this project was held in New York and supported by Lord Charles Churchill, Donald Trump and Estee Lauder.

My most unexpected endeavor with Obiarts was into the field of American Modernism. Through an attorney friend of mine, I was introduced to the work of Manierre Dawson. At the time, Dawson was not widely known. A group of us bought a large collection of his paintings and sculptures. While my partners were interested in tax write-offs, my wife, playwright, Myra Bairstow, and I felt a mission to further the scholarship of Manierre Dawson and establish his rightful place in art history. This, after all, was a pioneering artist who painted several of the world’s first abstract canvases in 1910, sold his first painting to Gertrude Stein and was shown in the world-renowned Armory Show of 1913. Although Dawson was enigmatic to the art world, Myra and I persevered through research to advance the cause of Dawson. We bought our partners out over the years and worked with leading art scholars, curators and galleries to establish Dawson’s role in the Modernism Movement.

Today, Dawson is represented in 35 major museums throughout the United States. In 2007 Myra and I had the honor of seeing Dawson’s key 1912 cubist painting entitled The Three Graces, installed in the Modern Room of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Every worthwhile deal will always require risk, patience, perseverance and the challenge of obstacles. My agreement to serve in the military unexpectedly led me to the rewarding filed of plastic surgery and into the fascinating world of art. It was a circuitous route, but one of excitement, knowledge and indelible memories. The lesson of a good deal is that it multiplies and overflows into unexpected facets of one’s life.

For more information on plastic surgery in Jacksonville, Florida visit Dr. Obi's web site: Obi Plastic Surgery

The pursuits of Dr. Lewis J. Obi, M.D., F.R.S.A. dictated by passion

2008-09-16T14:43:00.009-04:00

This article was written about Dr. Lewis J. Obi by Seth Williams and gives more insite about Dr. Obi and his life's work.

The pursuits of Dr. Lewis J. Obi, M.D., F.R.S.A. dictated by passion
by Seth Williams

It’s been said that life imitates art far more than art imitates life, this couldn’t be a truer statement when interpreted by the trained eyes and skilled hands of an accomplished plastic surgeon.

Dr. Lewis Obi is a plastic surgeon who has gained a wealth of knowledge and background from learning ‘hands on’, observing the manifestations of war upon injured soldiers while in the Marine Corps at the early age of 16. The miracles of plastic surgery and his experience in Korea led him in his pursuit of medicine and polarized his life’s commitment. From age 19 through the age 38, Obi earned a pharmacy degree and continued in his pursuit of higher education earning a degree in plastic surgery and finally, board certification. Obi was now able to pursue his life’s passion, sharing his eye for fine art and skills in the field of plastic surgery.

Dr. Lewis Obi is a groundbreaker and a firm believer in exceptional patient care and treatment of his friends and patients. His passion led him to the establishment of the first and finest comprehensive Ambulatory Surgery Center in the State of Florida, The Samuel Wells Surgical Center, opening its doors in 1977. Since its inception, the facility has provided patients who prefer the best in pre- and postoperative treatment, world-class amenities, and premier patient care. The center continues to set a benchmark in the industry, satisfying clients who seek privacy and intimacy while undergoing procedures of such a sensitive nature.

The licensed center has many accolades to go along with its years of service to clientele. The blemish free record at the center is a testament to the countless hours of training and qualifications that enable it to be a compliant facility with the stringent AHCA, or The State of Florida, Agency for Health Care Administration, guidelines. The facility adheres to the outlined procedures for facility compliance and inspections. It also requires the licensed healthcare risk managers implement programs prescribed by statute to accomplish quality assessments and improvements that assure greater patient safety. The Samuel Wells Surgical Center has continually gone above and beyond the guidelines, assuring compliance and a continued meticulous training regiment for all staff members.

Dr. Obi is a firm believer in training his staff to handle any situation and perhaps echoes the flawless record of safety at the center. A constant student and educator, Obi expects his staff to learn and understand the risks and preventative measures used to foresee, confront and prevent any complication that may arise while handling surgical patients. All staff registered nurses, anesthesiologists and visiting physicians handling patients are required to update and actively maintain Advanced Cardiac Life Support (or ACLS) procedures and coursework required to understand the risks and prevention of a cardiac emergency. The center also maintains a transfer agreement with the local hospitals to ensure patient comfort and increasing peace of mind.

Dr. Lewis Obi has been working with qualified Board Certified Plastic Surgeons across the United States and around the world to help patients develop realistic expectations about the benefits of cosmetic surgery. The ‘reality show’ exhibitions that paint an unrealistic picture of such a respected field prompted a comprehensive publication by Obi and his most outstanding peers. He has contributed to a book written by the experts titled Be Your Best-A Comprehensive Guide to Aesthetic Plastic Surgery* that incorporates expert advice on all aspects of Cosmetic Plastic Surgery from the nation’s leading authorities. The book guides the inquisitive, educated patient through the history of plastic surgery, the steps associated with discovering a qualified plastic surgeon, common procedures and offers comfort through the understanding of procedural guidelines.

The continual pursuit of knowledge and education drives Obi to teach and reach out to others who desire experiential learning from the best in the field. “The clear difference,” says Obi, “between many young surgeons today and a surgeon who has learned skills from a background in reconstructive surgery are evident.” The background knowledge gained from residency, continuing into practice, in the reconstructive field of surgery requires problem solving not normally encountered through cosmetic and aesthetic practice alone. The true benefits that Obi feels underlie his continual work in both reconstructive and cosmetic surgery is the ability to troubleshoot and foresee complications in procedures and posses the ability to handle them properly, ensuring the stability of the patient’s condition and safety in the operating room.

There is a gift that the plastic surgeon has, the ability to share with his or her friends life altering ‘miracles’, enabling people to be their best. Dr. Lewis Obi truly believes he works in the greatest field- where his talents and skills shine- revealing his passion. Uncompromising in his dedication to patient safety and comfort, Dr. Lewis Obi is renowned throughout the Jacksonville region for his pioneering approach to providing aesthetic enhancement services through his skills in a wide range of plastic surgery procedures, from breast augmentation, breast reconstruction and facelifts to rhinoplasty and liposuction.

In addition to providing cosmetic surgery services, the Lewis Obi Plastic Surgery Center offers a wide range of relaxing and refreshing aesthetic enhancement services at the Renaissance Center for Cosmetic Renewal. The Renaissance Center compliments the plastic surgery practice by providing services in a comfortable, relaxing environment where you are attended by a friendly and professional staff using the latest equipment and procedures.

Beauty enhancement options include Palomar StarLux Pulsed Light System, glycolic chemical peels, facials, microdermabrasion, Botox® injections, filler injections (Juvederm, Radiesse, collagen, and fat), permanent make-up and skin care. Products include Prevage MD, Skinceuticals, Revaléskin, Glo Mineral and Brenda Christian make-up.

Dr. Lewis Obi is known for his vision and commitment to professionalism that highlights and embraces artistic beauty. View Dr. Obi’s website and comprehensive information at Obi Plastic Surgery or call to set up your consultation at 904-399-0905.

*Be Your Best-(Insight International Press, LLC-copyright 2006)