Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Abstract

Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Edited by Sherrell J. Aston, Douglas S. Steinbrech, and Jennifer L. Walden. Pg. 976. Saunders/Elsevier, Philadelphia, Pa. 2009. $299. Aesthetic Plastic Surgery is a well-focused resource with an integrated media approach that links the single-volume text with procedural videos, Internet access, and online updates. In the Introduction Dr. Aston describes the book's genesis; it is based on the long-standing Manhattan Eye, Ear, and Throat Hospital aesthetic meeting. Speakers from the meeting were asked to contribute succinct, focused chapters describing their approach and surgical technique. The editors intended to create a single volume of targeted information from world experts, and they have succeeded very nicely. Because of this approach, Aesthetic Plastic Surgery has a very specific feel and almost a rhythm when it is read. Each article is only a few pages long. In general, the articles are crisp and clear and can be digested one at a time in just a few minutes. Although the list of contributing authors is extensive, the editors have utilized a consistent artwork style and full color throughout that help unite the necessarily disparate styles and topics. The first half of the book focuses on aesthetic surgery of the facial regions and is characterized by very specific, single techniques described in each chapter. In the second half of the book, involving breast and body surgery, some chapters have more of a review quality, but all sections flow well. Some of the chapter topics are classics by authors who are widely recognized in their fields; other chapters describe newer techniques and technologies. Included with the book is a DVD that contains short videos indexed to the chapters within the text. In addition, when there is a video available to demonstrate a specific technique, that information is highlighted at the beginning of the chapter. Through the publisher's Web site, www.expertconsult.com, the text can be accessed electronically. It is particularly interesting that the online site contains chapter updates. Although only three chapter updates had been posted at the time of this writing, these updates contained totally new material. Apparently, the text cannot currently be downloaded to an e-reader, a functionality that would fully integrate all of the media elements. The clear organization, the varied viewpoints of the numerous expert contributors, and the thoughtful integration with video and Internet updates give Aesthetic Plastic Surgery a feel that is somewhere between traditional textbooks, journal articles, online resources, and meeting presentations. The volume would be a good resource for both residents and fellows just beginning their training in aesthetic surgery and more senior surgeons who might want to compare specifics of contrasting techniques.FigureFelmont F. Eaves, III, M.D.