Health Journal Online

Tag: Plastic

  • How Plastic Surgery Is Evolving With Science and Service

    How Plastic Surgery Is Evolving With Science and Service

    Plastic surgery is undergoing a significant transformation. Surgical practice is no longer solely focused on delivering the most exaggerated results; surgeons are shifting to provide individualized care that promotes long-term health and procedural safety. Surgeons, like Dr. Frank Agullo at Southwest Plastic Surgery, blend global experience with innovation, using cutting-edge techniques, emphasizing transparency, and public education to drive this change.

    Evidence-Based Safety in High-Demand Procedures

    Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBLs) and body contouring are popular procedures globally, but they remain controversial surgeries due to safety risks. The NHS in the UK lists that the main risk of the procedure is a pulmonary embolism due to the fat being injected.

    The NHS also states that the fat should be injected into the subcutaneous area, not into the buttocks muscle.

    Dr. Agullo is among the first in North America to publish prospective safety data demonstrating reduced complications with ultrasound-guided fat grafting, and Southwest Plastic Surgery continues this precedent by using the technology for BBL procedures. With this practice, surgeons have greater control over where fat is injected, ensuring it is placed in the correct location and reducing potential risks.

    The Rise of Preservation Techniques in Breast Aesthetics

    According to Southwest, there has been a noticeable shift toward natural-looking breast enhancements, with tissue preservation and sensory retention being priorities. Techniques such as Motiva’s Preservé and scaffold-supported augmentation enable surgeons to deliver aesthetic enhancement while preserving functional integrity.

    The combination of smaller, lighter implants with advanced pocket‑control allows surgeons to preserve the patient’s own tissue envelope and sensation while achieving the desired volume and shape. Each of these technological advances in technique assists professionals in remedying existing issues of malpositioning, sensation loss, breast function, and scarring.

    Facial Rejuvenation Across the Lifespan

    Demand for facial procedures spans a wide age range, from thirty to seventy and beyond. With no two faces exactly alike, surgeons must address a wide variety of patients’ problems and concerns.

    Deep-plane facelifts, scarless endoscopic approaches, eyelid surgeries, and combination procedures are tailored to age, facial anatomy, and recovery goals, reflecting a shift toward subtle rejuvenation rather than more dramatic results. Results are more likely to seem like your face, but better, rather than a whole new person, if that is what a patient desires, and according to trends, it is.

    Plastic Surgery as Restorative, Not Just Cosmetic

    Plastic surgery is not all about appearance; it also has a more profound impact. Dr. Agullo’s humanitarian missions, like cleft lip/palate surgeries with Smile Network and Smile Train, emphasize surgery as a tool for function and confidence. Local initiatives like BRA Day events and support for breast cancer survivors underscore the commitment to social impact.

    Digital Transparency & Education as Differentiators

    Under his brand, Dr. WorldWide, Dr. Agullo pioneered live surgery content on Snapchat and now engages patients across Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. These platforms function as educational tools and trust-builders, with real-time Q&A and patient journey walkthroughs that create visibility and comfort.

    Plastic surgery is not only about delivering a complete transformation of self, but also about helping patients achieve the results they desire for the body they will live in for the rest of their lives. It is individualized and health-focused, improving people, communities, and bodies.



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  • Plastic Pollution Treaty Not Dead In The Water: UN Environment Chief

    Plastic Pollution Treaty Not Dead In The Water: UN Environment Chief

    The UN’s environment chief insists that a landmark global treaty tackling plastic pollution remains achievable, despite talks twice imploding without agreement, and the chair suddenly resigning this week.

    United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) executive director Inger Andersen told AFP in an exclusive interview that countries were not walking away, regardless of their sharp differences on combating the ever-growing problem, including in the oceans.

    A large bloc wants bold action such as curbing plastic production, while a smaller clutch of oil-producing states wants to focus more narrowly on waste management.

    Supposedly final talks in South Korea in 2024 ended without a deal — and a resumed effort in Geneva in August likewise collapsed.

    Countries voiced anger and despair as the talks unravelled, but said they nonetheless wanted future negotiations.

    “We left with greater clarity. And no-one has left the table,” said Andersen.

    “No-one has walked away and said, ‘this is just too hopeless, we’re giving up’. No-one. And all of that, I take courage from.”

    The plastic pollution problem is so ubiquitous that microplastics have been found on the highest mountain peaks, in the deepest ocean trench and scattered throughout almost every part of the human body.

    More than 400 million tonnes of plastic are produced globally each year, half of which is for single-use items.

    While 15 percent of plastic waste is collected for recycling, only nine percent is actually recycled.

    Nearly half, or 46 percent, ends up in landfills, while 17 percent is incinerated and 22 percent is mismanaged and becomes litter.

    Annual production of fossil fuel-based plastics is set to triple by 2060.

    As things stand, there is no timetable for when further talks might be held, and no countries have made formal offers to host them.

    But Andersen “absolutely” thinks a deal is within reach.

    “This is totally doable. We just need to keep at it,” she said.

    UNEP has been shepherding the talks process, which began in 2022.

    Summarising where countries are at, Andersen said: “The mood music is: ‘we’re still in the negotiations. We are not walking away. We have our red lines, but we have a better understanding of the others’ red lines. And we still want this’.”

    Andersen said Norway and Kenya convened a well-attended meeting at the UN General Assembly in New York last month.

    The COP30 climate summit in Brazil in November will provide another opportunity to put the feelers out, ahead of the UN Environment Assembly in Nairobi in December.

    Luis Vayas Valdivieso, Ecuador’s ambassador to Britain who chaired the last three of six negotiation rounds, has announced he is stepping down, leaving the process rudderless.

    Vayas’s Geneva draft treaty text was instantly ripped apart by countries in brutal fashion, and while a revised effort gained some traction, the clock ran out.

    British newspaper The Guardian reported that staff from Andersen’s UNEP team held a covert meeting on the last night in Geneva, aimed at coaxing members of civil society groups into pressuring Vayas to quit.

    “This is a very, very serious allegation,” Andersen said.

    “I did not know and obviously had not asked anyone to do something of this sort.”

    She said the allegation had been referred to the UN’s Office of Internal Oversight Services.

    “I’ve been in this business for 40 years, and I have never, ever done such a thing, and I would never have asked a staff of mine, or anyone else for that matter, to go and have covert meetings and quote my name and ask to undo a seated chair who is elected by member states. It’s outrageous.”

    As for whether a new chair could provide fresh momentum, she said: “As always, when there’s change, there is a degree of a different mood.”



    Countries were unable to find common ground on tackling the scourge of plastic pollution




    Global plastic production in one year




    Six rounds of talks have failed to seal an agreement on dealing with plastic pollution




    Luis Vayas Valdivieso has announced he is stepping down as chair of the plastic pollution treaty talks


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  • 5 Reasons to Ditch Single-Use Plastic Today

    5 Reasons to Ditch Single-Use Plastic Today

    Introduction

    The world is facing a plastic crisis, and it’s time to take action. Single-use plastics have become a convenience that we can no longer afford. From plastic bags and straws to water bottles and microbeads, these items are used once and then discarded, contributing to the staggering amount of plastic waste that ends up in our oceans, landfills, and environment. In this article, we’ll explore the top 5 reasons to ditch single-use plastic today and make a positive impact on our planet.

    Reason 1: Reduce Plastic Pollution in Our Oceans

    One of the most significant problems with single-use plastics is that they often end up in our oceans. Plastic bags, straws, and other items are not biodegradable, which means they don’t break down naturally in the environment. Instead, they’re consumed by marine animals, who mistake them for food, or they break down into microplastics that are ingested by smaller animals. This plastic pollution has devastating consequences, including the death of millions of marine animals each year. By ditching single-use plastics, we can significantly reduce the amount of plastic waste that enters our oceans and help protect marine life.

    Reason 2: Conserve Natural Resources

    The production of single-use plastics requires massive amounts of natural resources, including oil, gas, and water. In fact, it’s estimated that the production of plastic bags alone requires over 12 million barrels of oil each year. By switching to reusable alternatives, such as cloth bags and stainless steel water bottles, we can conserve these resources and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. Additionally, many single-use plastics are made from non-renewable resources, which means that once they’re used, they’re gone forever. By choosing reusable options, we can help reduce the demand for these resources and promote sustainability.

    Reason 3: Decrease Greenhouse Gas Emissions

    The production and transportation of single-use plastics require a significant amount of energy, which is often generated by burning fossil fuels. This process releases greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide and methane, into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change. By reducing our use of single-use plastics, we can decrease the demand for these energy-intensive processes and lower our carbon footprint. Additionally, many reusable alternatives, such as stainless steel and glass, have a lower carbon footprint than their single-use counterparts.

    Reason 4: Protect Human Health

    Exposure to single-use plastics has been linked to a range of human health problems, including cancer, reproductive issues, and neurological damage. For example, plastic bags and wrap have been shown to leach chemicals into food, which can then be ingested by humans. Additionally, microplastics have been found in drinking water and food, which can lead to the ingestion of toxic chemicals. By ditching single-use plastics, we can reduce our exposure to these chemicals and promote a healthier environment for ourselves and future generations.

    Reason 5: Support a Circular Economy

    A circular economy is an economic system that promotes the reuse and recycling of materials, rather than the production of new, single-use items. By choosing reusable alternatives to single-use plastics, we can support a circular economy and reduce waste. This approach encourages companies to design products that are sustainable, recyclable, and reusable, which can help to reduce the environmental impacts of production and consumption. By supporting a circular economy, we can create a more sustainable future and reduce our reliance on single-use plastics.

    Conclusion

    Ditching single-use plastics is a simple yet effective way to make a positive impact on our planet. From reducing plastic pollution in our oceans to supporting a circular economy, there are many compelling reasons to switch to reusable alternatives. By making a few small changes to our daily habits, such as carrying a reusable water bottle and shopping bag, we can significantly reduce our use of single-use plastics and promote a more sustainable future. So, what are you waiting for? Ditch single-use plastics today and join the movement towards a plastic-free world.

    FAQs

    Q: What are some alternatives to single-use plastics?
    A: Some alternatives to single-use plastics include reusable bags, stainless steel water bottles, glass containers, and cloth straws. You can also opt for products with minimal packaging or those that use biodegradable materials.

    Q: How can I reduce my use of single-use plastics at home?
    A: You can start by identifying areas where you use single-use plastics the most, such as in the kitchen or bathroom. Then, find reusable alternatives, such as stainless steel water bottles or cloth bags, and make a habit of using them. You can also avoid buying products with excessive packaging or those that contain microbeads.

    Q: What is the impact of single-use plastics on marine life?
    A: Single-use plastics have a devastating impact on marine life. Plastic bags, straws, and other items are often mistaken for food by marine animals, which can lead to blockages, nutrient deficiencies, and even death. Additionally, microplastics have been found in marine animals, which can lead to the ingestion of toxic chemicals.

    Q: How can I get involved in the movement to reduce single-use plastics?
    A: You can start by making changes in your own life, such as reducing your use of single-use plastics and choosing reusable alternatives. You can also get involved in local initiatives, such as beach cleanups or advocacy groups, to help raise awareness about the issue. Additionally, you can support companies that prioritize sustainability and reduce their use of single-use plastics.

    Q: What role can governments play in reducing single-use plastics?
    A: Governments can play a crucial role in reducing single-use plastics by implementing policies and regulations that promote sustainability. This can include banning single-use plastics, implementing recycling programs, and providing incentives for companies to switch to reusable alternatives. Governments can also educate the public about the impacts of single-use plastics and promote behavioral change.

  • Can We Safely Use Melamine Dishes and Polyamide Plastic Utensils?

    Can We Safely Use Melamine Dishes and Polyamide Plastic Utensils?

    I recommend glass, ceramic, porcelain, or stainless steel tableware and wooden or stainless steel cooking utensils.

    Melamine is used to make a variety of hard plastic “food contact items such as cups, plates, bowls, and utensils because they are dishwasher safe, inexpensive, and durable.” If that word sounds familiar, it may be because melamine has also been added illegally to protein products to game the system to make it appear that “food commodities” like pet food contain more protein than they actually do. By 2007, more than a thousand potentially contaminatedpet food products were recalled after “the chemical was found to be a contaminant in wheat gluten used in those products,” but not before it caused disease and death in pets throughout North America. 

    “It is presumed that melamine was intentionally added by suppliers in China to falsely elevate the measured protein content and, hence, the monetary value of these products.” The pet food scandal was just the writing on the wall. The following year, “melamine was discovered to be the cause of an outbreak of urinary tract stones and renal failure” (kidney stones and kidney failure), affecting hundreds of thousands of infants and young children throughout China. “Investigations revealed that the compound was added illegally to powdered milk and baby formulas to falsify protein content.” 

    As I discuss in my video Are Melamine Dishes and Polyamide Plastic Utensils Safe?, in the United States, you can find it in food packaging and sneaking its way into animal feed. However, those using melamine dishware can be exposed directly, as it migrates straight into the food upon exposure to heat. In fact, “cooking spoons and crockery made of melamine resin are not suited for microwaves and cooking,” according to food safety authorities. Okay, but what if you never cook with it, fry with it, or microwave it? What if you just use melamine to eat out of? 

    In “A Crossover Study of Noodle Soup Consumption in Melamine Bowls and Total Melamine Excretion in Urine,” researchers measured the amount of melamine flowing through the study subjects’ bodies compared to eating the same soup out of ceramic bowls. Their findings? “Melamine tableware may release large amounts of melamine when used to serve high-temperature foods”—and not even hot foods. “Melamine migration can be detectable from daily-use melamine-made tableware, even in the low temperatures,” like just warm water. Why do we care? Because the level of melamine you’re exposed to “is significantly associated with kidney function deterioration in patients with early-stage CKD,” chronic kidney disease, in which even relatively “low melamine levels may cause a rapid decline in kidney function.” So, I would suggest glass, ceramic, porcelain, or stainless steel tableware instead. 

    What about polyamide utensils, common black plastic spoons, spatulas, and the like? All sorts of different plastic materials are used in kitchen utensils. Polyamide is “typically used for turners [spatulas] or ladles due to their high heat and oil resistance.” “However, components of this plastic can migrate from the utensils into the food and consequently be ingested by consumers.” Out of 33 utensils tested, nearly 1 in 3 exceeded the upper safety limit. The German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment “recommends that consumers keep contact with food as brief as possible when using PA [polyamide] kitchen gadgets, especially at high temperatures,” such as above the temperature at which we may drink hot tea or coffee. 

    A different survey of black plastic kitchen utensils found about a third contaminated with flame retardant chemicals. Why? Because it may be made from plastic recycled from electronic equipment that was impregnated with the stuff. Then, should you dip the polyamide utensil into oil, the chemicals can trickle out, suggesting that using such “utensils for frying may lead to considerable dietary exposure.”

    The black dye itself in some polyamide utensils can leach out, too. Eventually, with enough use, the levels drop, but it may take the equivalent of boiling the utensils for about a hundred hours before the dye leaking approaches safety levels. It’s probably just easier to use utensils that are wooden or stainless steel.

    This is the last in a three-part series of cookware videos. If you missed the others, check out Are Aluminum Pots, Bottles, and Foil Safe? and Stainless Steel or Cast Iron: Which Cookware Is Best? Is Teflon Safe?.

    It may not be safe to microwave melamine, but what about microwaving in general? See Are Microwaves Safe? and The Effects of Radiation Leaking from Microwave Ovens. 



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