Health News and Information
Joseph W. Rucker, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Profiles is published by Rucker & Merrick Plastic Surgery Clinic and Enza Medispa. Profiles provides general health related information and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical care.

Common Misconceptions in Plastic Surgery
Joseph W. Rucker, M.D., F.A.C.S.

In order to understand the many misconceptions regarding my specialty we must first understand the meaning of the term Plastic Surgery.

When Choosing a Surgeon
Joseph W. Rucker, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Did you know that Plastic and Cosmetic Surgeons undertake 9 years of in-depth medical education and training before they begin their practice?

Treatment of Acne Facial Scarring
Joseph W. Rucker, M.D., F.A.C.S.

The skin is the largest organ of the body containing glands, blood vessels and acting as a barrier between our inner selves and the contaminants circulating in our environment.

Body Contouring
Joseph W. Rucker, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Body contouring encompasses a variety of surgical procedures. These techniques may be desirable if you have excess fat beneath the skin that is resistant to dieting and exercise.

Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)
Joseph W. Rucker, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Sometimes, even after a great night’s sleep, it can be hard to feel alive and vibrant when you see those tired, drooping eyes looking back at you from the mirror. The loose skin over your eyes and the fat bags below make you look more tired and older than you feel inside. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.

Lip Augmentation
Joseph W. Rucker, M.D., F.A.C.S.

The lips have been an inspiration for poetry and their appreciation is repeated throughout plays, movies and songs. We are mesmerized by their scarlet hue and caressed by their silky softness. It is often said that the eyes are the windows to the soul but the lips are the gateway to sensuality.

Rhinoplasty (nasal surgery)
Joseph W. Rucker, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Nasal surgery has become more popular in recent years because the nose is the most noticeable facial feature. We can often disguise protruding ears with various hairstyles and soften the appearance of our eyes with makeup, but our unwanted nasal features can’t be hidden or disguised.

Information for patients considering Breast Augmentation
American Society of Plastic Surgeons

Breast augmentation, technically known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure to enhance the size and shape of a woman's breast for a number of reasons.