Ear, Nose & Throat Physician Dr. Hayward Eubanks
December 9, 2009 by Beverly Hills Times
Filed under Business Highlights
For 21 years, Dr. Hayward Eubanks has been treating people with Ears, Nose & Throat illness and disease. He offers tips on how to avoid sickness, importance of early detection when it comes to serious ear and throat conditions, how to maintain good upper respiratory health through proper eating and vitamin supplements, and health signs that let you know when your body is depleted, stressed, and needs attention—FAST.
UPPER RESPIRATORY ILLNESS
“Upper respiratory virus is always more of a problem during colder months, but especially now with the Swine Flu affecting people all over the world, we need to be conscious of protecting our health. Every where we go people are coughing, they have ear and throat infections, allergies, breathing and sinus problems. This makes it even more difficult to stay healthy. Nevertheless, we have to keep our health at the fore- front of our thoughts and actions.”
YOU DON’T HAVE TO GET SICK
#1. AVOIDANCE
#2. CLEANLINESS
“The number one way that we can stay healthy is avoid getting sick. Stay away from people who are sick, coughing, sneezing, and generally not feeling well. Avoid as much as possible places that are congested with a lot of people, stay as much as possible in open airy places. The second way to avoid getting sick is to amp up cleanliness; wash your hands frequently with an anti-bacterial soap; also avoid hand-to-hand contact when possible and supplements and good food to strengthen your immune system.”
DAILY ‘MUST-DO’ LIST
• Take a high potency multi-vitamin.
• Take at least 2,000 mg of vitamin C.
• Sleep boosts the immune system.
THE SWINE FLU
• The Swine Flu is highly contagious.
• It affects everyone differently.
“There are two forms of the vaccine: the live virus (nasal mist); and a component of the non-living virus (shot or inter- muscular). If the vaccine is given prior to exposure to the virus it is ‘very’ useful; but if the immune system has already been exposed to the virus taking the vaccine ‘maybe’ useful in some people. The vaccine is a good tool to fight virus, but needs to be taken early—before exposure, to work effectively.”
Is The Swine Flu Shot Necessary? What Are The Risks Of Getting It?
“The Swine Flu vaccine is new. Its effectiveness and complications depends on the research that is still ongoing today. In my opinion, there was not enough time to fully research the vaccine and iron out problems now thought to be associated with it. The vaccine is not for everyone; the nasal mist or live vaccine should not be administered to pregnant women, patients with long-term health problems, or children six months to 2-years of age. In 1976 several hundred people who had requested vaccines developed neuromuscular symptoms, and even Guillian Barre syndrome, from which some died. People with healthy immune systems can generally fight off the flu on their own.”
CHRONIC SINUS CONDITIONS
Pollution, allergies, cosmetic nasal surgery, sickness, asthma—contribute to sinusitis. Symptoms are runny nose, watering eyes, congestion, problems breathing, blocked airways, headaches, and rarely go away on their own.
“Living in Los Angeles, especially the Valley and the L.A. basin areas is like living in a bowl. In that bowl are sediments that people become allergic to. Take for instance the fires that we have here in southern California; after the fires are over people still deal with all of the particles in the air that stay in the air for months on end. In California we don’t have four seasons which means that flowers bloom and pollen float around all year long.”
ADVANCEMENT IN SINUS SURGERY
In the past 10 years Laser has had astounding results treating sinusitis.
• Simpler sinus surgeries
• Minimal to no pain or downtime
“We’ve discovered that we don’t have to remove, but shrink turbinates inside the nose which immediately opens nasal passages and helps drainage. Another breakthrough in sinus treatment is called Balloon Sinuloplasty which opens up critical areas allowing the sinus to drain. It is a very simple procedure, but with remarkable results. Laser allows us to work inside the nose on areas that many times were not accessible. In the upper respiratory track everything from tear ducts to the throat; proper function of the nose is crucial to eliminate illness.”
COSMETIC NOSE SURGERY & BREATHING PROBLEMS
“One common problem especially here in Los Angeles is that people who have had cosmetic nasal surgery experience more sinus and breathing difficulty. Reducing the size of the nose reduces the nasal valve area blocking the flow of air in one or both sides of the nose. Eliminating this problem for those who have had prior cosmetic nasal surgery is a big part of my practice, and can be taken care of relatively simply.”
THE SERIOUSNESS OF EAR PAIN
“Ear pain can indicate a multitude of problems. Nerves within the ear go to almost every part of the body. Treating people with ear pain, physicians have to be very careful where the actual start of that pain is coming from. There have been cases where a person with ear pain has had a tumor in the lung area. Ear pain is one of the most significant symptoms a person can exhibit for a related problem in another area of their body such as TMJ, throat and tongue diseases. Ear pain needs immediate attention.“
Hayward Eubanks, M.D.
Ears, Nose, Throat, Neck Surgery
Beverly Hills, CA.
310-360-7368
Los Angeles, CA.
323-296-3431
Hawthorne, CA.
310-679-0676
For questions or for further information email:
haywardeubanks@yahoo.com
YOSSI DINA: Jeweler To The Stars.
December 9, 2009 by Beverly Hills Times
Filed under Business Highlights
South Beverly Wilshire Jewelry and Loan Company/The Dina Collection have been a corner- stone of the Beverly Hills business community triangle for more than 30 years. Owner, Yossi Dina continues to expand his business even when others are closing their doors.
Dina’s “ART OF THE DEAL“ savvy, business skills are based on his many years of experience, knowledge and innate ability to buy magnificent one-of¬a-kind designer jewelry from sources around the world, then, he offers up all that A-list bling from Buccellati, Cartier. Bulgarl, Tiffany. Chanel, Gucci, Rolex Van Cleef & Arpels, Harry Winston and others to Dina collections clientele for up to 80% off retail prices. Buying, selling and keeping his company as the number one loan and acquisitions broker in the country keeps Dina feeling very good.
March, 2010 Dina will move his South Beverly Wilshire Jewelry and Loan Company/The Dina Collection to its new permanent location at 249 South Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, CA., 90212. Dina purchased the building more than a year ago, and has been busy doing an extensive remodeling with a leading architect, and interior designer. It is destined to be an elegant, high-end retail space for the clientele who now frequent his store. More than a million dollars has been vested on the plush renovation, catering to every detail to make certain that the 5,000 sq.ft. Store offers clients an exclusive jewelry and art gallery showroom environment, complete with valet parking.
“I like happy clients,” Dina states. ”What sets me apart from other people in this business is the fact that I have a true and sincere commitment to my customers. Year after year people come back to me and they refer people they know to me. Whether they want a particular piece of jewelry or find themselves in a short notice cash flow problem and in need of a loan, or cash infusion—I am fair minded and honest with my clients, always trying to help them fulfill their need, and I always do my best to get them what they want.”
To celebrate the upcoming Holidays, the New Year and his new store, Dina Collections is giving away jewelry. YES! You read it correctly. Dina Collections is literally giving jewelry out for Free with every purchase of at least fifteen hundred dollars ($1,500.00). Dina is presenting the “fortunate clients” with a GlA registered, white cultured, 163 pearl strand necklace, an exquisite gift in its own right…could be for that special someone in your life. The estimated value of the pearl necklace is over six hundred dollars ($600.00) and comes with the GIA certification. Just think of it as buying one gift and then getting another—exquisite and expensive gift for free!
“I’m in a unique position to be able to offer my clients the best of every- thing because of the volume of jewelry that we trade and carry, I can pass along as much as 80% discount off of retail prices on Designer pieces, and as in this case—add pleasure to their buying experience by giving a token of my appreciation for shopping with us.”
Any night of the week, Dina can be found mixing and mingling with the Red Carpet A-list crowd at celebrity haunts and high profile private parties for the rich and famous.Clients come to Dina looking to buy the biggest and the best at rock bottom prices; others no longer want their pricey loot and have commissioned Dina to find suitable buyers; and then there are those who use their precious collectibles as collateral for immediate cash loans that they need. Whatever the case, Dina is their man.
“The majority of my business are referrals from around the world. It feels good knowing that people trust me with the buying and selling of their important jewelry and valuable collectibles. People tell me all the time that they appreciate the fact that I don’t push them to do anything and that I advise them in their best interests, but leave it up to the client to make the final decision. Of course, I want clients to get the best deal possible. In addition to telling them what and when to buy, I also tell them when selling a particular piece is not in their best interest.
Not just ” Jeweler-to-the Stars” —Dina is somewhat of a local celebrity in his own right. Single, good-looking, and affluent, he is no doubt carrying some serious 6-pac abs underneath the designer shirts he wears (Dina is a Yoga fanatic and all-around athlete who attends a Master yoga advanced class each morning). From his deep, sexy voice to his slightly unsettling gaze, the traces of his Israeli accent come through as he speaks with a charming and dry-witted sense of humor. It’s not until you hear him on the phone haggling over some mind-bending make it-or break-it deal, that it’s apparent…this guy is nobody to mess around with! In Israel where he was born, he served as a member of an elite Israeli commando troop.
Dina works hard and he plays hard. When he’s not tending to business, he is jetting around the world to meet discerning clients who want to sell everything from original paintings from masters such as Warhol, Picasso, Cezanne, Hirst and Johns to exquisite, one-of-a-kind estate jewelry. The bank vaults of South Beverly Wilshire and Loan Company/The Dina Collection is filled with a blinding inventory of bling that includes a mind-boggling: array of contemporary to incredible antique pieces. Fabulous engagement rings (1 to 10 carats), spectacular diamond bracelets, many with precious stones, every designer watch you can think of, dazzling earrings in every size and eye-pepping necklaces that make the most excellent evening gown accessory: all are perfect for the upcoming gift-giving season.
“One outrageous diamond sparkler; a 12 carat loose diamond Dina sold the day I was there for $500,000.00. His celebrity client was thrilled. The same diamond in Cartier, Harry Winston or Van Cleef would have cost in the millions. Dina’s massive In-house collection also includes antique furnishings, exotic and vintage cars, sculptures, and priceless pieces out of the most well-known estates and castles in the world.
“It is my business to know what is going on in the current markets. Money is tight and people are not spending hard earned money like in the past. More than ever before people are coming in for loans to make ends meet. Right now I am uncertain how long how it will take the economy to turn around, but this experience is humbling for everyone and I am very thankful because my business is holding steady. In my new store location I will have two separate business entities; one for lending money against items for collateral, and the other for retail.”
Not only does Dina make what he does look effortless, but he manages to make his clients feel appreciated and taken care of.
“People in my business think that I am tough; actually I am sensitive to people and what they are going through. I am in a business where trust is the most important thing I can offer. I am not in business just for the sake of earning a living. My mother told us, ‘Find something that you love to do and you will never have to work again.’ I’m passionate about what l do. Big or small, I work with the business deals that come my way and do the best job that I can for my clients.”
South Beverly Wilshire Jewelry & Loan
The Dina Collection
157 South Beverly Drive
Beverly Hills, CA. 90212
310-888-1818
www.thedinacollection.com
Attorney William Shernoff
December 9, 2009 by Beverly Hills Times
Filed under Business Highlights
For more than 30 years Beverly Hills-based Attorney William Shernoff has hauled big insurance companies into court for failure to pay claims of policy holders…and has won big verdicts. The fight continues as he takes on heavyweight health insurance companies that now more than ever are denying patient medical claims and canceling policies after people become sick and need medical treatment. He is credited with establishing and pioneering the law of Insurance Bad Faith in California.
Interviews by Suzanne Takowsky & Zandra Palma; Written by Suzanne Takowsky; Photos by David Sobel
Are you pushed to the wall because your medical insurance company has you by the short hairs? You’re not alone. Millions face a dead end when claiming what is rightfully theirs from insurance companies: Prompt payment for their medical services; fair evaluations of medical conditions; proper care and treatment for life-threatening illness, or catastrophic accident injury; coverage for long-term treatment, disability, or wrongful death due to the negligence of another; each one devastating for those involved. So, why is it that here in AMERICA people must bury their sorrow and over-ride their health problems, in order to fight with their insurance companies over the help and treatment they need? Meet the man who challenges all those underhanded tactics by all of those monstrous health insurance companies—and wins! Los Angeles, and now Beverly Hills-based attorney, William Shernoff.
Senior/managing partner of Shernoff Bidart Darras & Echeverria LLP—a law firm known as the ‘bad faith insurance lawyers’ Shernoff heads a team of 10 premier litigation attorneys who get victims what is legally theirs. And, forget that ungodly ‘hourly-rate-fee’ nightmare that most people face in litigation. Shernoff and his team don’t fool around; they go to court to win. If they don’t win…they don’t get paid.
Shernoff’s mission to bust wide open all the illegal practices of insurance companies began in 1971, with his first insurance case. It was a brutal, eye- opening realization of the corruption behind insurance giants, and the under- handed, strong-arm, dishonest tactics they did to get out of paying claims of policy holders; the worst being to cancel policies of critically ill people clinging to the hope that a correct diagnosis by qualified doctors and proper medical treatment would save their lives. There was no going back. Shernoff took off taking insurance bad faith cases and pioneering this new field of law. In 1979, he made international headlines by winning a landmark case for the MGM Grand Hotel, in Las Vegas ($86 million settlement), involving failure to pay insurance proceeds due to a fire at the hotel. That same year the California Supreme Court handed down a record-setting punitive damage award for another of his cases (Egan v. Mutual of Omaha). The landmark decision was so substantial it set a precedent for all of the ‘bad faith‘ insurance disputes to this very day.
Another high-profile case that thrust Shernoff into the international spotlight: a jury awarded his clients (the American Samoa Government) $100 million for devastation caused by a hurricane. Then, the granddaddy of law- suits was when Shernoff represented California Holocaust survivors who claimed life insurance benefits were due them from European insurance companies. Life insurance proceeds were never paid the beneficiaries of those who died in concentration camps. Shernoff’s lawsuits on behalf of the survivors spawned a five billion dollar settlement which was distributed to survivors worldwide. He went on to receive the 2002 Trial Lawyers of the Year honor by the California Consumer Attorneys Association for the headline making, unprecedented case.
A documentary of his Holocaust case was filmed and purchased by Sony pictures. The film “On Moral Ground” is in development for a theatrical movie for Sony pictures. Michael Moore the mega filmmaker/director consulted with Shernoff and credited him for working on the documentary, “Sicko”.
But it’s more than just the high-profile cases that have earned Shernoff a reputation for helping the underdog. It’s his everyday fight-for-life cases for people like you and me that have him fighting mad. Like the case of Elmer Norman, whose $48 medical insurance gripe uncovered a horrific fraud that brought down a $4.5 million jury verdict. Or, Mary Frazier, a financially struggling woman in Watts whose $12,000 life insurance claim dispute with Metropolitan Life, turned into $8 million settlement for her. Shernoff’s honors and awards are a leg-long list that include his name on The Best Lawyers in America, every year since its first edition in 1983. He was named ‘Super Lawyer’ by Law & Politics and Los Angeles Magazines in 2004 and, in September of this year was once again on the the Best-of-the-Best Hot Sheet as one of the 100 Most Influential Attorneys in California. He has appeared on the pages of the New York Times, Wall St. Journal and Time Magazine more times than even he can count, and his television appearances include shows such as, 60 Minutes. With his original location in Claremont (the first office that he opened in 1975), he also has an office in Beverly Hills. It stands as a central location for clients within the greater Los Angeles area.
When not in Superman-Mode righting wrongs, he is with his wife Jilda Shernoff, and their six year old daughter, Summer. The couple have been married 10 years, and met when Jilda was a real estate agent in Beverly Hills, and sold him a home. The two were married 10 months later. Jilda is bright, charming, adorable, beautiful and no doubt the life of the party with a wicked sense of humor. She jokes that when he bought that house he had no idea that she came with it. They are the cutest couple and the after- noon that I spent with them at their elegant 12,000 square foot home in Beverly Hills, was hysterical with all the joking and playing around. It’s apparent that they have a great time and enjoy each other’s company.
S.Takowsky: What’s life like married to such an on-the-go, high-profile guy?
Z.Palma: What led you to law?
Z.Palma: Why open an office in Beverly Hills?
Z.Palma: You’re known for high-profile clients such as all the drama surrounding Heath Ledger’s life insurance case.
S.Takowsky: Being in the business of beauty you couldn’t have a more beautiful place to live and work than Beverly Hills.
Z.Palma: No doubt that you’ve had many troubling and hard to believe cases. Does any one in particular stand out to you?
Orthopedic Surgeons Dr’s. Hormoz & Christopher Zahiri
December 9, 2009 by Beverly Hills Times
Filed under Business Highlights
It’s a ‘Family Affair’ for this father & son duo as they have built a mini-medical empire dedicating their work to conquering the aging process through cutting-edge treatments, state-of-the-art orthopedic procedures and educating their patients on how to avoid age-related degenerative diseases.
When it comes to mixing the serious business of orthopedic practice with family and pleasure, you can’t get a better or tighter fit than the Zahiri family. Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon, Dr. Hormoz Zahiri, is a pioneer in the field of Orthopedic Surgery. He is a renowned physician, surgeon, author of numerous original publications, international speaker and Clinical Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at the University of Southern California. For more than 30 years, he has remained at the forefront of innovative orthopedic technology with over ten patents. His cutting-edge surgical procedures are used by orthopedic surgeons around the world. Founder of the International Orthopedic Center for Joint Disorders in Beverly Hills, California, Dr. Zahiri is also a Sports Medicine specialist who for years has been focusing on the treatment of complex orthopedic conditions of the neck, back, shoulders, hips, knees and ankles. Dr. Zahiri’s integrative treatments help fight aging from the inside-out with nutritional, pharmacologic, physical and mind-body management. People throughout the world visit Dr. Zahiri for their unresolved orthopedic conditions. Thanks to his dedication to providing the most advanced orthopedic care to his patients, his expertise is helping people achieve total body wellness. Now, imagine his pride when his son, Christopher, decided to follow in his footsteps.
Dr. Christopher Zahiri is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery and an Active Fellow of American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. He is sub-specialty trained in hand/upper extremity surgery from Loma Linda University Medical Center and did joint replacement research at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center. As a Board Certified Orthopedic surgeon, Christopher has a significant presence in his own right in the field of Orthopedics. In little more than 14 years as a physician, he has published more than 20 research and clinical papers in peer reviewed journals, and presented research at 15 national and international professional meetings. He specializes in upper extremity injuries and focuses his practice on diagnosis, conservative and surgical treatments of hand, wrist, elbow and shoulder conditions including traumatic injuries, peripheral nerve entrapments (i.e. carpal tunnel syndrome), occupational and sporting injuries (i.e. Tennis & Golfer’s elbows, Rotator cuff injuries), as well as arthritic conditions that may require joint replacements.
Together, he and his father have brought together, the latest science and their vast experience, for the most advanced and comprehensive Orthopedic total care possible under one roof at their International Orthopedic Center for Joint Disorders in Beverly Hills. They have one goal: show patients, during their course of treatment, how to achieve and maintain optimum fitness, agility and wellness at any age.
A Diplomate of the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery, Hormoz Zahiri is also a Qualified Medical Examiner for the State of California. He’s made his mark in both his homeland of Tehran, Iran, where he was born and here in the United States, where he has been a citizen since 1982. An international lecturer and educator, he travels the world speaking at seminars and teaching facilities. His vast knowledge of the musculoskeletal system and the human body allows him to take procedures to a whole body approach; he doesn’t just find ways to mask the pain; he fixes the problem. Throughout life, our musculoskeletal system is by far one of the most important organ systems; it enables us to move— or not! As we search for longevity we must address the topic of quality of life. Who wants to live to be 80, 90 or 100 if it involves a life plagued with pain, joint deformity and immobility?
ST: You say we don’t have to age in pain; how does that work? Millions want to know.
Dr. HORMOZ: By simply following the science of preventive medicine and of musculoskeletal knowledge and experience of the orthopedic surgeons. People go to variety of doctors when they have pain in their neck, back, and extremities. Such approach does not usually resolve the problem, if the problem is more than just a minor condition. The greatest source of pain as we grow older is our musculoskeletal system. It is through the science of orthopedic surgery and preventive medicine that the exact conditions can be pinpointed and managed with the most advanced pharmacologic supplements, non-surgical treatments and possible surgical interventions. No pain in our body is acceptable at any age. To reach a pain-free musculoskeletal system, the first step is to see an orthopedic surgeon.
At International Orthopedic Center for Joint Disorders, Dr. Hormoz Zahiri is the Medical Director and Dr. Christopher Zahiri serves as the center’s Director of Upper Extremity Surgery. Both are on staff at multiple outpatient surgery centers and Hospitals on the Westside of Los Angeles. Their intense work ethics and patient demands keep them quite busy, as I witnessed first hand while writing this article.
ST: What is it like working with your son?
Dr. HORMOZ: I took Christopher to my office when he was six years of age and had him witness a surgery around the same time, since he was so curious. I believe that was when he first became interested in the field of orthopedics. He was always interested to hear about issues related to orthopedic surgery. As he grew, he pursued his interests on his own and my wife and I just supported his decisions. Now, after so many years of education and training, we have a son who is highly accomplished, is entirely committed to his family and profession, and is a very competent orthopedic/hand surgeon. My son is not the only member of my family who practices in the office. My wife, Rana, is the Assistant Office Manager and Quality Controller. My daughter, Marzi, (who has double majors in economics and finance) is the Office Administrator and runs our entire operation. This family atmosphere has resulted in an office that is dedicated to even addressing minor details and therefore optimal quality and patient care.
Christopher is very busy these days and it’s not all about medicine. He and his wife Nelly recently added another baby (two month old daughter, Chloe) to their growing family. They already have twins, Cyrus and Camellia who on the day of our photo shoot couldn’t have been more “movie star” like as they smiled and posed like pros. They’re probably used to a camera; the Zahiri home is like Disneyland with toys everywhere and photos of the children on every table and shelf in sight—the result of very proud parents and grandparents. Nelly is a Child Psychologist, who in addition to a private practice in Westwood, is a faculty member at SMC and hosts an educational and psychological TV talk show in Los Angeles.
ST: Are you seeing more injuries with the advancement of technology?
Dr. CHRISTOPHER: Absolutely. The use of computers and mobile devices nowadays have created very common injuries. Most common work-related injuries that I see are secondary to postural injuries, i.e. neck strains, headaches, upper extremity tendinopathies, and nerve entrapments from sitting across a computer in a non-ergonomic setting. It is essential that one has an ergonomically correct workstation to avoid these types of injuries. In addition, it is of utmost importance that people keep up physically with the current demands of advancement in technology and activities of daily living. Basically, one has to physically condition him/herself to be able to sit behind the computer for 8 hours per day. You get injured when you are not strong enough for what you are doing. Therefore, strength and endurance training is very important to avoid these type of injuries.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is another very common injury secondary to repetitive motion of the hands and wrists and if recognized soon can be treated easily with a wrist brace worn at night times. I am seeing a significant prevalence in trigger finger injuries, mostly secondary to use of Blackberry’s and IPODs, where we are now calling these injuries Blackberry thumbs and IPOD fingers. These are secondary to repetitive use of the thumb/fingers, which result in inflammation of the flexor tendon(s) sheaths and the tendon gets caught in a tunnel as it glides, creating a locking or snapping of the finger. These if recognized early can be treated with exercises and anti-inflammatory medications.
ST: Are arthroscopic procedures getting any easier for patients?
Dr. HORMOZ: As one of the pioneers in arthroscopic surgery, I have witnessed a dramatic change in the way joint problems have been treated through the evolving techniques in arthroscopic surgery. Arthroscopic surgery has proven to be one of the most important minimally invasive surgeries available today. For those who have ignored their ongoing joint pain, arthroscopic surgery can serve as a renovating joint procedure. Nutritional and pharmacalogical treatments as well as biomechanical and physical rehabilitation can then be used until the patient’s problem is either resolved or stabilized favorably. Arthroscopic surgery is mostly performed as an outpatient procedure with less post-operative pain and a faster recovery.
The Zahiri’s multi-disciplined preventive approach consists of a program to fit an individual’s needs. Patient follow-up they say makes a difference between partial or complete recovery. Christopher has expanded his research as an innovator with three patents on orthopedic devices and two others as patent pending. He and his father are currently working on an orthopedic implant that is set to revolutionize the treatment of a specific problematic fracture and will be available to the market in the near future.
ST: There are many degenerative/age related diseases as we grow older. Take for instance osteoarthritis. How do we know if we have it and how can we best manage it?
Dr. CHRISTOPHER: Osteoarthritis is basically the wear and tear of the joints. As the articular cartilage wears out, it eventually results in joint deformity and bone on bone contact at the joint level. Most commonly, it is caused by normal aging, obesity, previous intra-articular fractures, and excessive use. Most common symptoms are pain and stiffness of the joint(s). The best preventative management is weight loss and a routine exercise program. Exercise will keep the joints supple and strengthens the surrounding tendons and ligaments around the joints preventing joint deformities, thus slowing down the degenerative process of the joints.
ST: Why do so many people sustain injuries with exercising, when they are trying to do the right thing?
Dr. CHRISTOPHER: Most of the people that get injured while exercising are generally the “weekend warriors”, which means that they have not trained their muscles in a gradual sustainable method and all of a sudden they perform a high demand task that their muscles are not accustomed to, resulting in different types of tendon/ ligament injuries. Take for example, tennis and golf that are sports that require great amount of skill. It is usually one bad swing that results in the injury. Therefore, to avoid such injuries, one has to perform cross training with strength and endurance training to excel in these sports and avoid injuries. It is essential that people should have a routine daily exercise program to best avoid musculoskeletal injuries. I tell my patients that they should start thinking about exercise like the way they think about brushing their teeth, EVERY DAY.
By Suzanne Takowsky
Photo: David Sobel
Lorena Sarbu: Elegant Timeless Couture
December 9, 2009 by Beverly Hills Times
Filed under Business Highlights
For designer Lorena Sarbu the world of design has always represented infinite magical possibilities. Through her couture creations, Lorena envisions and engenders the wealth of this artistic medium which embodies whether in premium or in trickle down styling—the influence and relevance of fresh and re-imagined design. Having designed for socialites, young and veteran Hollywood actresses, and women who know and appreciate exquisite design artistry, Lorena’s next chapter will unveil her ready to wear line to the world.
Lorena’s passion for design began as a child in Romania. Constructing a couture wardrobe for her collection of dolls was not miscellaneous play- time, but a forecast into her future. As a young adult, following the strong academic back- ground example placed by her parents, she studied psychology at the local University. Even though she excelled in this curriculum, the dreams she had as a little girl of being a designer never left her thoughts. Lorena knew her path and her calling was in the fashion industry. Upon graduating, she moved to Chicago where she formally began her studies in design. She implemented her major study with a minor in business. During her education process, Lorena continued to work on her own design ideas, building from a foundation of classic melded with elegantly sexy. This would be an integral blueprint equation for the unique, timeless and refreshing signature of a Lorena Sarbu creation.
For Lorena, along with structural philosophy is the philosophy of accessibility. She does not subscribe to the theory that design is handcrafted for the entitled. This is evident in the aura of her two boutiques. Set up as a solace as opposed to symbolist impression, Lorena’s boutiques have been constructed from within to embrace the lives of every woman, evoking and exuding their inner beauty in an environment that encourages the strength of individuality and femininity.
In her couture designs, Lorena has merged individual with time, place and event with a fresh, crisp clarity, which has set her apart from her contemporaries. Not broadening, but honing even more succinctly, Lorena brings a couture sensibility to her namesake ready to wear line. Encompassing the unique cornucopia of textiles, shapes and ornamental detail found in her made to order creations, the Lorena Sarbu line incorporates couture quality and flavor into ready to wear, culminating into versatile, functional pieces on a more immediate scale.
In 2009, Lorena’s couture designs have garnered the attention and affections of the Hollywood community. Her design presence was showcased on four actresses at the 2009 Emmys. At the 36th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards, beautiful and young actresses Tamara Braun and Emily O’Brien chose Lorena Sarbu to wear for their big night. Tamara Braun walked away that evening with her first Emmy for her portrayal of Ava Vitali on “Days of Our Lives.” Subsequently, at the 62nd Annual Prime-time Emmy Awards, veteran actresses Shohreh Aghdashloo and Sharon Lawrence also graced the Red Carpet in Lorena Sarbu couture. Aghdashloo won her first Emmy that night in the category of Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Mini Series or Movie.
Lorena Sarbu Beverly Hills
443 N Bedford Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
E-Mail | email@lorenasarbu.com
310.246.0515
Top10BeverlyHills.com - The Most Exclusive List In Town
December 9, 2009 by Beverly Hills Times
Filed under Business Highlights
When Plastic Surgery Goes Bad. Doctors Corner With Dr. Richard Ellenbogen
October 2, 2009 by Beverly Hills Times
Filed under Business Highlights
For more than 25 years Dr. Richard Ellenbogen has been at the forefront of Plastic Surgery innovation. A noted author, television personality and teacher, his surgical procedures and techniques are used by surgeons around the world.
Why Does Plastic Surgery Go Bad?
“In my opinion, there are two primary reasons why surgeries go bad:
1. A large number of practitioners are not board-certified and lack experience.
2. Patients aren’t comfortable questioning a surgeon’s qualifications and move forward with unnecessary surgeries.
A great deal of expertise is necessary to successfully complete all aspects of plastic surgery, including what are often considered simple injectibles. In addition to unskilled practitioners, patients find it difficult to question a doctor’s recommendation; some doctors recommend surgeries which appeal to a patient’s underlining desire to better themselves, however, the surgery may not be necessary or provide a patient with results that they desire.”
What To Do When Revision Surgery Is Necessary?
“Find an experienced plastic surgeon with a history of completing revisions on surgeries without positive results. Revision surgeries are a substantial part of my practice. I use photos of patients then ‘correct with computer imaging’ the bad results to show there is hope. I confirm with patients what they have in mind, if it’s something I can do and some- thing that looks aesthetically pleasing. A qualified surgeon knows that beauty is based on symmetry.”
Rhinoplasty (nose)
“It’s estimated that 15-25% of people who have aesthetic rhinoplasties in the U.S. have them redone; less than 50% are satisfied with results they get. Visit
www.RevisionNoseSurgery.com which shows how we revise bad nose surgery.“
Breast Augmentation
“Breast augmentation surgery is the most revised surgery in the U.S. for reasons such as hardness of the implant or because the implant moves. Visit www.RevisionBreastSurgery.com view breast-surgeries-gone-wrong; see options to correct unsatisfactory results.”
Liposuction
“Liposuction surgery can turn out to be asymmetrical or have a lumpy look that requires fat grafting to fix bad results. Estimates show 30% of all liposuction surgeries require a revision. Most surgeries that require an incision leave a scar and some patients develop wider, unsatisfactory scars which need to be repaired. BEFORE surgery make certain your surgeon has experience and proven ability to create a natural result that can’t be visually seen as a ‘re-do’. In revising bad liposuction some patients need a surgeon with extensive experience using a laser that can also remove excess fat to smooth an area, or add fat to an area.”
Injectibles
“Qualified physicians know for patients over-injected with Restylane or JuvaDerm there are injectable substances to correct or dissolve mistakes almost immediately. When Botox has been over-done a patient has to wait it out until it goes away; but if an eye is droopy there is an antidote.”
Unrealistic Patient Expectations
“Everyone considering plastic surgery should be informed by their surgeon of complications which can occur. Qualified surgeons must speak with patients about unrealistic revision surgery results. Not all revision surgery turns out to be what a patient or for that matter a surgeon feels is ‘perfect’ and that can occur if an initial surgery produced devastating results difficult to revise. It’s vital that people do their homework finding a qualified surgeon BEFORE they move forward with a surgery they later regret. One of the most retarding aspects of my practice is helping patients disappointed by a surgery-gone-bad then give them realistic and natural revision results.”
For information about plastic surgery email: info@beverlyhillsbody.com. Include your name, email address/phone number and a question you would like discuss to the attention of Deborah Canter Head Consultant and Director of Beverly Hills Body. Dr. Ellenbogen’s radio show ‘Body Beautiful’ will debut in October and he address plastic surgery questions. Dr. Ellenbogen & State of The Art Surgery Center will host a Red Carpet event in October open to the public to meet the doctor and tour his newly renovated 5,000 square foot surgery center. RSVP at info@beverlyhillsbody.com
Cooking Well: Beautiful Skin, Antioxidant Rich Recipes for Glowing Skin
October 2, 2009 by Beverly Hills Times
Filed under Business Highlights
From Teen Vogue, Healing Lifestyles and Spas Magazine to Natural Health Magazine, the Discovery Channel’s Planet Green, and Working Mother Magazine, Elizabeth TenHouten’s expertise as a natural Chef and beauty expert are raising the beauty bar to a new level—one that includes self-love and nurturing one’s inner self to achieve outer beauty.
Former model, animal rights activist and Editor-in-Chief of Celeb Life magazine, Elizabeth TenHouten is a beauty and skin-care expert and cookbook author. In her book; Cooking Well: Beautiful Skin with Antioxidant-Rich Recipes for Glowing Skin she captures the very essence of inner and outer beauty combining the scientifically proven benefits of antioxidants for skin health. Her creative recipes are not only delicious and healthy for your skin, but Elizabeth goes a step further giving her readers 50 “Beauty Bytes” and meditative exercises to achieve glowing, radiant skin from the inside out.
ST: Let’s talk about your journey into the nutrition and beauty industry.
ET: My inspiration for writing this beauty cookbook stems from my love of cooking with healthy, antioxidant ingredients for beautiful skin, and my philosophy that beauty and health are synonymous. As I began researching antioxidant- rich foods and creating recipes for glowing skin, my idea of cooking for beauty morphed into something deeper as I pondered what beauty really is. My book matured into incorporating an inspirational message, stemming from my philosophical quest to define beauty. I define beauty as one’s inner, authentic self. The core philosophy of my book is rooted in the existential concept that we are always in a state of ‘becoming’: the more one works on her inner beauty, the more beautiful she becomes. Cooking Well: Beautiful Skin offers antioxidant-rich recipes to achieve a beautiful, radiant complexion. Antioxidants are chemical compounds that occur naturally in our bodies and in certain foods. They fight free radicals in the environment that wreak havoc on our skin. Our bodies can’t produce antioxidants, though. My recipes are infused with antioxidant-rich ingredients; your skin will glow.
ST: You have created natural do-it-yourself, topical beauty recipes for various skin woes.
ET: Yes. Cooking Well: Beautiful Skin has over 50 “Beauty Bytes”. In addition to developing antioxidant-rich recipes, I have studied natural beauty remedies and solutions. I offer antioxidant-rich “Beauty Bytes” as a fun and creative way to share beauty secrets with my readers. They are luxurious home- made facial masks, hair treatments, and body scrubs. For example, de-puffing your eyes with warm tea bags for “pretty peepers”, or an apple cider mask for improving acne. My “Beauty Bytes” are regularly featured in numerous print and online publications, for instance, CelebutanteSisters.com, a site entirely dedicated to DIY beauty recipes.
Women struggle with the concept of beauty, and here in L.A., it seems that females take it to another level. What do you hope to accomplish with your book on inner and outer beauty?
ET: True beauty is nurtured from within. I want to raise people’s spirits and provide them with a platform to understand their true beauty, and the beauty that is within each and every human being. I hope that with this understanding of authentic beauty, people—especially women, will feel happier, have a new- found appreciation for their body and their spirit…and will feel beautiful. Additionally, I present my readers with inspirational, philosophical quotes, and meditation exercises. I believe that this reflection and introspection are pivotal to attaining our highest potential for beauty. I write that beauty is more than just skin-deep, which is why my cookbook for glowing skin is unique. The book incorporates aspects of the mind, body, and soul, as the way to achieving beautiful skin. Those who read my book will be inspired to cook for the sake of their beauty, and health, which I believe are synonymous. I want people to know how miraculous our bodies are, and why it is so important to care of our selves—body, mind and soul. Especially for today’s busy women, caring for ourselves is how we truly connect with our authentic, inner beauty.
Pomegranate Tuna
In season by September; use plastic cutting board as pomegranates stain wood.
Ingredients:
•1 medium pomegranate
•1 (6 ounce) can chunk white tuna in water
• 4 Radicchio leaves
•1/4 cup raw almonds
• Lemon wedge for garnish
• Olive oil, to taste
Cut the pomegranate into two/three pieces. With the seeds facing away from you, use your thumbs to push pomegranate pieces inside out, then, pick off the seeds. Place radicchio leaves on a plate. Flake tuna with a fork and place inside radicchio with olive oil. Sprinkle with almonds, pomegranate seeds, and chives. Garnish with lemon wedges and serve.
Sprout and Flowers
Garnish with an edible flower from your garden!
Ingredients:
•1 cup extra virgin olive oil
•Juice from 1 lemon
•1/2 cup rice vinegar
•1 tbsp. flat leaf parsley
• Dash Cayenne pepper
•10 Brussels sprouts; cut in half; steamed
•2 Roma tomatoes, quartered
•1 cup cauliflower florets
•2 tablespoons sunflower seeds
•2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds
•1 cup prepared pumpkin, butternut squash or sweet potatoes, then cut into chunks.
Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, rice vinegar, parsley, and cayenne pepper. Add all ingredients in a bowl; toss with dressing. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
BOOK available November 29th
in bookstores across the country, on Amazon,
and also visit: www.elizabethtenhouten.com
Arthur Glosman DDS Cosmetic Dentistry, “It Changed My Entire Life!”
October 2, 2009 by Beverly Hills Times
Filed under Business Highlights
“People complimented me on my looks, but my smile was lacking. Dr. Arthur Glosman transformed my smile into a work of art in just two visits. Now I smile everyday!” —Malkie Lewis
My name is Malkie Lewis. Since I was a little girl, people have complimented me on my smile. But as I grew I noticed my smile was getting discolored, had gaps and my teeth were very uneven to say the least. Being young, I knew I had to do something or face real problems in the next 10 years. So I decided to check out what could be done, and of course I was worried about everything!
I chose Dr. Glosman because I had heard about his amazing work and I chose him also for his creditability as a person and a dentist. He came highly recommended to me from many of his patients. The first thing that I noticed when we met was how open he was. He was excited over all of the possibilities that cosmetic dentistry would offer me. I could tell that he sincerely understood my situation, and I was astonished at how truly genuine and caring he was. I thought that it would be a long and painful process, but actually it took only two visits, and without any major discomfort whatsoever. In fact, I was out eating and laughing the very night that I completed my treatment!
In the end I could not believe how incredibly beautiful the results were, and how natural the whole process was. I am so unbelievably happy, and smiling is now a whole new kind of joy! Best of all, it definitely brought my confidence to a whole other level making me feel both transformed and rejuvenated.
My mother always said, “your smile is your open- ing statement to the world so you want to make sure that it is the best statement you can have!” Thanks to Dr. Glosman and my new smile, I am living that statement each and every day.
Arthur Glosman DDS Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry
414 N Camden Dr Suite 940 Beverly Hills, CA (866)940-0343 www.arthurglosmandds.com
Dr. Osep Armagan: Is Your “Health Routine” Helping or Killing You?
October 1, 2009 by Beverly Hills Times
Filed under Business Highlights
Dr. Osep Armagan is a Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon. For 15-years he has helped hundreds of people suffering from injury and disease regain their health. Specialty trained in all aspects of Sports Medicine, Foot & Ankle Disorders and Bone & Joint Disease. Besides his private practice, he serves as team physician for High School, Collegiate & Professional Athletic Programs.
Jogging, weight-lifting, sports, hand- fuls of vitamin & health supplements and reading, I-never-want-to-get-old research doesn’t seem to get the job done for the 40-70 crowd these days. Sure, there are some who fly under the radar and say they feel 20 when they’re 70, but for the majority of us stress, no regular exercise program, non-stop schedules, iffy eating habits and over- work have taken a toll. What didn’t bother us at 30 is kicking our butts now. I spoke to one of the premier Sports Medicine and Orthopedic surgeons in LA., Dr. Osep Armagan for answers.
CHRONIC BODY PAIN
ST: Everyone I know suffers with a painful body part. It seems the more we Baby Boomers exercise and try to get healthy…the more we are NOT.
OA: Joint, hip, hand, elbow, knee, spine, neck, foot, ankle, shoulder pain; it’s all caused by one thing; Wear and tear arthritis. And there’s no escaping it the older we get. The source of a patient’s pain and joint immobility is always exercise-related or age-related and both occur after years of bone, joint and muscle abuse brought on with continual pressure on the cartilage of a joint. Torn pieces of cartilage fill with scar tissue and the joint begins to deteriorate. These ‘unseen injuries’ go on silently for years building up until they start causing pain and immobility.
SYMPTOMS NOT TO IGNORE
NECK: The majority of neck problems are caused by wear and tear on the cervical spine and as we age they become painful. Unfortunately, most are a normal part of aging. Neck move- ment builds neck strength which both posture and over-all body alignment.
SPINE: Disc disease is caused by stress and strain. Scar tissue develops causing connective tissue holding the discs to lose their ability to absorb shock for the spine. Unfortunately, no medication exists that will cure neck and back pain. there are medications, however, that will bring down inflammation that will help with pain. Physical Therapy, injections or surgery are options.
HIP: Symptoms of a degenerative hip joint start with pain as you bear down. A limp takes pressure off the hip, but soon range of motion is affected and people find it very painful and almost impossible to walk. Hip joint bones are covered and protected by cartilage and a lining that produces a lubricant that offers easy motion, strength and elasticity for movement. Hip replace- ment surgery isn’t necessary for every- one. Blood tests and X-rays determine cause and amount of degeneration.
SHOULDER, WRIST, HAND, FINGERS: Arthritis is the culprit behind shoulder, wrist, hand, finger pain, immobility and degeneration. Age, injury, heredity and stress also play a part. The outcome damages cartilage, impairs movement, causes stiffness, pain, loss of motion mobility and inflammation that affects surrounding tendons and muscles. X-rays pinpoint joint damage, and detail the amount of cartilage left in the joint.
EXERCISE: SOLUTION OR CAUSE for WEEKEND WARRIORS
ST: What part does exercise play in body, bone and joint deterioration?
OA: Everything! As we get older we have to exercise to get ready to exercise, and few people do it. A good portion of my patients tend to be Weekend Warriors. They go from zero to 100; go out and jump into exercise and
don’t bother to warm up or do any strength or stretching to prepare for the muscle overuse and repetitive exercise. They end up worse than when they started. Here are a few simple guide- lines to make certain that your exercise routine adds—not limits your ongoing health.
1. Stretch your muscles before you start any exercise no matter what it is (golf, tennis, jogging, swimming, weight- lifting, basketball—you get the idea).
2. Joggers: No more than 5 miles a day.
Best are Elliptical and Nautilus machines on which there is no trauma to joints. A three-day a week exercise plan can incorporate both aerobic for burning calories and weight-training for toning.
3. NO FREE WEIGHTS. Free weights stress your heart more than Elliptical and Nautilus machines. The draw back to free weights as you age is if you have Coronary Artery Disease, free weights can lead to a heart attack or stroke.
4. Have a pre-exercise screening physical to determine how much plaque you have in your heart. Signs that you are over- stressing your heart during exercise include, shortness of breath, severe pain in the chest and palpitations. STOP. This does not include rehabilitation exercises. Check with your physician.
5. Stick to food for your nutrients. A one-a-day multi-vitamin does best. No medical evidence exists that handfuls of vitamins, supplements or any joint rehabilitation drinks make a difference. Some people say they do, others taking the same supplements—say they don’t.
Osep E. Armagan, M.D.
Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgery
805.501.9466
For Information or Questions:
Email: oseparmagan@ymail.com






