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3700 Joseph Siewick Dr., Suite 400 • Fairfax, VA 22033 (703) 620-4300 • EyePlasticMD.com
AUGUST 2024
Our Crazy Puppy Means Life Is Never Boring Meet OBi!
Our house has been invaded by a lunatic — but we couldn’t be happier.
My son recently had to contend with OBi’s need for playing on a more dangerous level. A few weeks ago, my wife left the house, and unknowingly to us, OBi wandered from the garage, down the driveway, and through the neighborhood, following my wife’s path. It’s amazing what a dog’s nose can smell! Luckily, my son was able to find OBi and lure him back before OBi wandered onto a busy road. Of course, this required our son to be very careful so that OBi didn’t think it was a game! And we aren’t the only ones enjoying OBi’s antics. Our next door neighbors have a dog named Archer, who sits at their front glass panel door watching his yard. Whenever OBi goes outside, Archer barks at Obi, and OBi barks back, so of course, Archer has to bark again. This cycle continues until Archer is let outside. That’s when it gets really crazy! These two dogs are best friends. They will chase, tackle, and play with each other for a solid 30 minutes, enjoying every minute outside. It’s a win for the humans and the dogs! OBi and Archer have so much fun outside and we know OBi will collapse into a nap afterward. Having OBi in the house has been like having a new kid again and he has truly been a great addition to our family. He’s loyal, happy, and makes us all feel loved and welcomed, even if we’re just coming home from the grocery
Recently, our family got a puppy named OBi. I know the name looks peculiar, but there is a back story. OBi is a jet black dog, so we originally wanted to name him Obsidian. However, that’s a little long, and a strange name for a dog, so we decided on OB. But that still didn’t feel right. So, we added a lowercase “i” and settled on OBi.
“OBi fills a void we had in our hearts after losing our dog, Zaika, last year.”
store. OBi fills a void we had in our hearts after losing our dog, Zaika, last year. Nothing can replace those memories, but the new ones we are creating with OBi bring back that special joy you can only get from a dog.
Because OBi is in the puppy phase, nothing in our home is safe from his chewing. He has eaten socks, shirts, furniture, rugs, and even a styrofoam earplug. That was a fun week — sifting through OBi’s poop to make sure everything came out. OBi sinks his teeth into everything, and while we get frustrated, OBi just thinks it’s fun. Of course, everything we do is a game to OBi. If he snatches a sock, or something else he knows he’s not supposed to have, he will run under the kitchen table, ready to be chased. Good luck if you’re by yourself! OBi will hop over to one side and slip back under the table to the other side when you start to chase him.
Now, if we could just get him to stop chewing everything …
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EUROPE’S MOST EXCLUSIVE ESCAPES FROM SNOWY VILLAGES TO YEAR-ROUND HOLIDAY CHEER
DISCOVER 2024’S TOP TROPICAL GETAWAYS Palm-fringed beaches, crystal-clear waters, and intimate jungle views — if you’re ready to fly off to a tropical paradise in 2024, this year’s trend is small beach resorts and private retreats. If you want to book a tropical trip, you should check out these destinations that travel experts can’t stop talking about. Grab your sunscreen and a sense of adventure because these three destinations are sailing atop the charts! COSTA RICA There’s a reason Travel + Leisure named Costa Rica the best destination in 2024. Known worldwide for its lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, and unique biodiversity, this peaceful nation is a haven for nature lovers. You can explore the jungle and view native animals by visiting one of the country’s volcanoes, nature preserves, or the Térraba-Sierpe Wetland, Costa Rica’s largest mangrove swamps. If you want the most luxurious experience possible, the Nayara Tented Camp is one of the newest hot spots for a glamping trip. The resort is made up of private tents at a spot with incredible views and offers five-star amenities. PANAMA If you want a mix of old-world charm and modern splendor, Panama has established itself as one of the “it” destinations for travelers. This country offers a little bit of everything, from rainforests and beaches to vibrant cities. Whether you want to stroll down the historic neighborhood of Casco Viejo and marvel Jet-Set to Paradise
at the architecture or visit one of its museums, Panama gives guests a mix of activities and chances to spoil themselves.
SAINT KITTS The island of Saint Kitts is a nature-lover’s paradise in the West Indies. With rainforests, mountains, and serene shores, you can explore by land or relax on the beach. Catch a glimpse of elusive green vervet monkeys at Mount Liamuiga or step back in time by visiting the Brimstone Hill National Fortress. Snorkeling and golf are popular pastimes in this growing hot spot of the Caribbean. As you plan for your next great tropical escape, set sail for one of 2024’s hottest destinations. Whether you want to traverse nature or lounge on immaculate beaches all day, your seaside oasis awaits you!
Banish Summer Beauty Meltdowns! DERMATOLOGIST-APPROVED HACKS TO STAY COOL
For many, this summer has been hot, bringing many sweat-related issues that can wreak havoc on your skin-care routine. As we head into the summer’s twilight, consider adjusting your techniques with three dermatologist- approved tricks to beat the heat.
Thanks to glycolic acid wipes, it’s time to throw your hands in the air like you just don’t care. Regularly using face or body pads containing BHA (beta- hydroxy acid) or AHA (alpha-hydroxy acid) on your underarms can quickly refresh between showers and reap some top-notch benefits. These naturally occurring acids exfoliate the skin, unclog pores, heal sun damage, and help to lighten dark spots. Additionally, AHA and BHA can keep body odor away no matter how hot it gets. SAY BYE-BYE TO MAKEUP STAINS. As the adage goes, you can’t wear white after Labor Day — which makes summer the ideal season to strut your stuff in all your best achromatic outfits. Before you get dressed, take this simple precaution to prevent makeup and tinted SPF from smudging all over the collars of your crisp, clean shirts. The hack? A little hairspray on your clothing prevents smudging by leaving a thin film, creating a barrier between your makeup and the fabric. It might be the hottest time of the year — but that doesn’t mean you need to accept a total beauty meltdown. By incorporating these simple hacks into your daily summer routine, you’ll keep your cool in style for the rest of the season.
SMELL FRESH ALL DAY. You know the tragic moment when you spritz on your favorite perfume, only to have the scent fade away before you’ve even made it out the door? A moisturizer can prevent that — specifically, an occlusive kind containing petroleum, like CeraVe or Aquaphor healing ointment. These products create a barrier on your skin, slowing the evaporation process and allowing your scent to remain fragrant longer. FREE THE PITS. Do sweaty or dark-colored armpits keep you from raising your arms too much during the summer?
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How to Manage Styes and Recurring Chalazions
Understanding Eyelid Cancer
Eyelid cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma, melanoma, sebaceous cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma, are significant health risks. Squamous cell carcinoma, in particular, can invade lymph nodes and metastasize. Identifying signs like scaly, crusty, or bleeding lesions that persist, form scabs, or exhibit irregular pigmentation is crucial. These signs and symptoms mean you need immediate attention from an eye care specialist, one who can refer you to an eyelid reconstruction surgeon. Unfortunately, many patients delay seeking treatment, which can result in extensive damage, with the resultant tumor growth consuming up to half of the eyelid. The most effective treatment is the complete removal of the tumor through Mohs surgery. This procedure is performed by a specialty trained dermatologist, and it involves trimming out the cancer, and then examining each edge by dividing it into sections. Every section is thoroughly checked under the microscope to ensure no cancer cells remain, conserving as much healthy tissue as possible. The Mohs surgeon focuses on tumor removal, while an oculoplastic specialist handles the task of eyelid reconstruction. The goal is to restore the eyelid’s function and aesthetics, matching it as closely as possible to the opposite eye. Techniques vary, such as cleaning up and pulling edges together or taking an
actual vertical section from the upper lid to close the lower lid. Large tumors may require rotating skin and muscle flaps. Most methods aim to retain eyelashes and protect the eye’s function and health. Deciding on a specific reconstructive technique involves consideration of both the least aggressive approach and the best aesthetic outcome. Upper eyelid cancers need prompt attention due to the dynamic nature of the upper eyelid movement. The upper lid blinks to protect the eye, making reconstruction more complex than the lower lid. Basic steps in managing eyelid cancer include identifying the tumor, removing it, assessing the best reconstruction technique, reconstructing the eyelid, and possibly performing secondary procedures. Patient-specific details play a significant role in treatment planning. For instance, older patients often have looser eyelids, which can simplify reconstruction. Ultimately, the careful balance of removing cancer while preserving eyelid function and appearance is key to successful outcomes. Just remember that early detection and treatment of eyelid cancers are vital. Regular check-ups with eye care specialists can prevent extensive damage and ensure timely intervention.
Lime Chicken With Corn and Poblano Salad
INGREDIENTS
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 400 F. 2. In a large oven-proof skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. 3. In a bowl, whisk flour, spices, and lime zest. Dredge chicken in the mix to coat. Add chicken, skin-side down, to skillet, then place skillet in the oven for 30–35 minutes. 5. In a medium skillet, heat olive 4.
Chicken •
3 tbsp olive oil
• • • • • • •
1 cup all-purpose flour 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
A referral is the highest compliment we can receive! Thank you for sending us five referrals this month!
1 1/2 tsp salt
3/4 tsp black pepper
Zest of 1 lime 8 chicken thighs
“Because of the dog’s joyfulness, our own is increased. It is no small gift.” –Mary Oliver
Corn and poblano salad • 2 tbsp olive oil •
oil and add poblanos. Sauté 4–5 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for another minute. In a bowl, add poblano mix, corn, scallions, lime juice, and cilantro, toss and serve with the chicken.
2 poblano peppers, diced 2 garlic cloves, minced
• • • • • •
1 14-oz can of corn 4 scallions, minced
6.
Juice of 2 limes
1/3 cup chopped cilantro
Salt and pepper
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3700 Joseph Siewick Dr., Suite 400 • Fairfax, VA 22033 (703) 620-4300 • EyePlasticMD.com
Inside This Issue
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Meet Dr. Scott’s New Puppy!
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The Ultimate Beach Retreats to Visit This Year
Simple Tricks for Cooling Off Your Beauty Routine
Spotting Eyelid Cancer — Don’t Wait to Act
Lime Chicken With Corn and Poblano Salad
Aspiring Necromancer Sought to Revive George Washington
Washington had been both a friend and benefactor to Thornton. A classic product of the Enlightenment, Thornton was a brilliant polymath considered a genius in his time. He was born in the British West Indies and attended medical school in Scotland before gaining American citizenship. Washington selected Thornton’s design for the U.S. Capitol. Upon arriving at Mount Vernon, Thornton was shocked to see the president’s corpse, frozen solid from the frigid winter temperatures and surrounded by grieving family and friends. The situation did not stop the doctor from hatching a bold plan to revive him. Thornton had studied numerous cases of people who were revived after appearing to be dead. He was an early advocate of the medical technique of mouth-to-mouth resuscitation to revive victims of near-drownings. Before Washington died, he had suffered a series of tortuous medical treatments for a bad throat infection, including numerous bloodlettings, throat poultices, enemas, and purgatives. Thornton recalled cases he had read about fish being revived after freezing and proposed to thaw Washington’s corpse in cold water, restore air to his body by performing a tracheotomy, and replace the blood drained by the doctors with lamb’s blood. If a lack of air and loss of blood had killed the president, then restoring them and warming the body should revive him, Thornton reasoned. None of Washington’s grieving family and friends supported Thornton’s idea. They recalled the former president’s deathbed instructions to the doctors attending him at the time, “I pray you to take no more trouble about me; let me go off quietly.” Ultimately, the president’s instructions were honored. Despite Thornton’s effort to have his body transported to the Capitol for burial, they granted Washington’s final wish: He was permanently interred at his Mount Vernon home.
HOW A DOCTOR PLANNED TO RESURRECT GEORGE WASHINGTON MANIC MEDIC
Fans of deathbed dramas can hardly ask for a more harrowing tale than the story of an overconfident doctor who tried to resurrect George Washington.
As the former president lay dying in December of 1799, Dr. William Thornton raced to Washington’s Mount Vernon home in hopes of reaching him before he passed away, according to “Washington’s End,” a 2020 book by historian and White House speechwriter Jonathan Horn.
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