WHAT IS ENDOSCOPY?
Endoscopy is a technique that allows examination of an area of the body by means of an endoscope. The endoscope is a tube-like instrument with lenses and a light source attachment. The endoscope provides a visual examination of the interior of the body through a natural body opening such as the throat or through a small incision in the body.

Because the endoscope can be inserted through a very small opening, it is a less invasive method than other surgical techniques. It causes less scarring and provides a quick recovery time. A camera is often used during an endoscopic procedure to provide permanent records of internal organs that can then be used for future reference.

Attempts were made in the early 1900's to view the interior of the body through various instruments, many of which were not very successful. In the 1950's, a major breakthrough came with the introduction of fiber optics (flexible bundles of glass or plastic fibers along which light is transmitted). This led to the development of more versatile instruments and ultimately, to the acceptance of endoscopy as a routine part of hospital medicine.

WHAT ARE THE USES OF ENDOSCOPY?
There are two main uses of endoscopy: diagnostic and therapeutic. A suspected tumor or other disorders of the stomach (with the bladder, lungs, or other organs) can be examined through the use of endoscopy. In addition to studying the organ, the physician is able to take a biopsy sample (a small piece of suspicious tissue) for testing. Endoscopy is valuable in the removal of polyps (small growths), treatment of the knee joint, and other disorders of joints. It is also used to treat the bronchi, colon, female reproductive organ, and gastrointestinal tract.

HOW IS ENDOSCOPY USED IN COSMETIC SURGERY?
In the area of cosmetic surgery, endoscopy is now widely used to perform many procedures which include: forehead lifts, brow lifts, facelifts, breast augmentation, abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), rhinoplasty (nose surgery), the placement of tissue expanders, and various tissue harvest procedures.

Use of the endoscope during cosmetic procedures allows the physician to make smaller incisions without disrupting the blood supply and soft tissue in the surrounding areas. Through the use of magnification and illumination of the area, there is less trauma to surrounding small nerves and tissues. Because the incisions can be made in remote locations, the resulting scars are inconspicuous. All of these advantages may shorten recovery time, aid in healing, and provide better results overall.

ABOUT ENDOSCOPIC SURGERY:
Prior to treatment, a complete medical history is taken in order to evaluate the general heath of the patient and a thorough examination is made. Dr. Engen describes the procedure, realistic results to be expected, possible risks and complications, and the type of anesthesia to be used. In most cases, a general anesthesia is not required. In addition, Dr. Engen may indicate that if complications do occur, the procedure may be completed through the use of conventional techniques.

Although treatment through endoscopy causes less bleeding than standard techniques, preoperative directions may include the elimination of certain drugs such as aspirin, which can cause bleeding in some cases. Antibiotics may be prescribed prior to the treatment to prevent infection. The area to be worked on is generally marked with a special pen directly prior to the procedure.

Post-operative directions are given based on the procedure. In most cases, patients are completely functional soon after the procedure. Rest is usually recommended and the physician will advise the patient if normal activities can be resumed.

If you are interested in learning more about endoscopy in cosmetic surgery, please contact Excel Cosmetic Surgery Center at 801-379-2900 and we will be happy to answer your questions.

Excel Cosmetic Surgery Center `1735 N State St. Provo,UT ` (801)379-2900