BOOK REVIEW
A More Beautiful You:
Reverse Aging Through Skin Care, Plastic Surgery, and Lifestyle Solutions
Reviewed by Maria O. Pietromonaco

Beauty is an enigma that falls just short of our reach every day of our lives. Our skin is never clear enough, our nose doesn't sit quite right on our face, our teeth could be a little whiter and straighter, and other facial features are overcome by age and gravity. For most of us, aesthetic perfection is a constant struggle, and we venture through life for the fix that will make us most beautiful.

Dr. Robert Freund, a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon in Manhattan, has answered our call for help. He has put together an extensive, comprehensive guide to "a more beautiful you." This "beauty bible" is a reader-friendly reference written in a light, conversational tone that is engaging and easy to connect with. The pages are filled with cosmetic treatments and products designed to make us more aesthetically appealing, and the author explores the various tools available to the medical profession and well as beauty retailers alike.

Dr. Freund takes an honest, genuine look at exactly what beauty is, how it is defined, and how it differs for every individual. He uncovers the foundations of beauty, throughout history and now in modern culture. Through the centuries what we have thought of as beautiful has evolved many times over, with different body types, hair lengths, nose shapes, etc. considered in highest regard.

He delves into personal experiences in his own practice, and unveils his own perspective and philosophy on the concept of beauty in relation to his patient's objectives. He takes a guarded approach to their dilemmas and truly listens to their motivation, expectations, and concerns.

Though Dr. Freund covers all the bases of beauty, he has a special interest in skin protection and rejuvenation. He provides a lot of information on proper skin care and solutions for all kinds of issues. He outlines the skin's anatomy so you can understand how the skin is affected by certain factors, thus making sense of the various approaches to take for each unique problem. Surgery isn't always the answer to beauty enhancement or transformation. Many of today's cutting-edge topical creams and treatments are sufficient and even preferred. From antioxidant creams and laser treatments, to retinoids and botox, the sky's the limit on treatment options available.

If plastic surgery is indeed a consideration, the author goes into explicit detail about different procedures, including facelifts, fillers, nose jobs, cheek implants, and correction for crow's feet, marionette lines, and double chins. He covers patient qualifications, cost estimates, how to find the appropriate doctor, and what to expect from start to finish.

Aside from just treatments and potions, Dr. Freund paints an all-inclusive picture of our overall image. He incorporates in his beauty formula the need for a great wardrobe, gorgeous hair, the right makeup, and most importantly, our overall health and well being. He stresses the need for proper diet, sleep, and exercise, along with minimal stress and a positive attitude. Leading an unhealthy lifestyle can wreak havoc on your skin and your overall healthy glow; it's a truism that if you feel good, you usually look good.

The author devotes an entire chapter to Beauty Food, explaining how vitamins and antioxidants are vital to healthy, youthful skin. He demonstrates how nutrients are an integral part in slowing the aging process. Keep in mind he does not promise you a "rose garden" of beauty just because you are eating your fruits and veggies. Rather, it is part of the overall process in attaining inner and outer beauty.

Whether you are considering plastic surgery, want to learn about the latest in skin treatments, are trying to decide what procedure is best for you, or are just plain interested about looking as beautiful as you can be, this book is the perfect resource to guide you through your questions and curiosity. IMAGE