LOCAL BUZZ
Meet
Dr. Anton Now in its 6th season, Bravo’s hit reality series, The Real Housewives of Orange County, is juicier than ever. Housewives have come and gone, but this season’s newest lady of the OC, Peggy Tanous, has imparted a fresh perspective and personality to the show. As a wife, model and down-to-earth mom of two toddlers, Peggy has endeared herself to Housewives watchers. She’s definitely kept it real having shared some intimate life details, including a struggle with postpartum depression and her journey through a recent reconstructive breast augmentation. We spoke with Dr. Mark Anton, the Newport Beach plastic surgeon who performed Peggy’s procedure and who has been featured alongside her this season as she’s transitioned through her much-publicized surgery. Dr. Anton shared his thoughts on being an Orange County plastic surgeon and on his experience with filming the reality TV series.
TLD: How long have you been a plastic surgeon? Dr. Anton: I’ve been a board-certified plastic surgeon for more than 20
TLD: How did you become Peggy Tanous’ surgeon? Dr. Anton: Peggy was referred to Anton Aesthetics by a friend and former
years with fellowship training in both Facial Surgery and Breast Surgery. I opened my private practice, Anton Aesthetics, in Newport Beach in 1990.
patient. I consulted with her regarding her breast augmentation revision after she had met with several other plastic surgeons. We discussed her concerns and she subsequently selected me to help her. In my experience, patients not only need to feel confident in their surgeon’s technical and sculpting abilities, but need to feel that they can communicate well and feel comfortable with the entire staff, from the nurses to the office personnel.
TLD: What is your aesthetic and philosophy as a plastic surgeon? Dr. Anton: I believe that natural and balanced results are always achievable with plastic surgery when one understands anatomy and sculpting. Having excelled at anatomy in medical school, I bring a strong foundation and understanding to the plastic surgeon’s medium that has allowed me to generate successful results and maintain one of the lowest complication rates among my peers. Optimal outcomes are attained through a combination of experience and a surgeon’s ability to artistically interpret and shape a patient’s existing morphology.
TLD: What are some of your most rewarding experiences as a surgeon? Dr. Anton: I’ve had so many that it’s difficult to select just a few. In my private practice, I’m often reminded of how a cosmetic procedure can be an overwhelmingly positive and life-altering experience for patients. It’s gratifying to know that you were able to contribute to those outcomes. Outside of my private practice, I traveled to Haiti in 2010 in conjunction with Operation Smile to provide surgical assistance to earthquake survivors. It was a humbling experience to say the least. Despite their dire circumstances, the collective spirit of the Haitian people was amazing to witness. Their strength, resiliency and graciousness in the midst of insurmountable obstacles are qualities we can all learn from.
TLD: Were you at all hesitant to participate in a reality TV series? Dr. Anton: Sure. I was apprehensive and gave the opportunity considerable thought, but knowing that I could assist Peggy through a difficult situation influenced my decision to move forward. My staff and I were primarily concerned that our reputation for professionalism and quality patient care remain paramount. Thanks to Bravo, appearing on the show was ultimately a positive and memorable experience.
TLD: What was it like to film a reality TV series? Dr. Anton: It was interesting to be part of the behind the scenes action and to witness how “real” the series actually is. There’s also an unnerving element of watching yourself on screen and the suspense of which footage will make it through the editing process and onto the show.
TLD: What surprised you the most about filming the show? Dr. Anton: How drama-free the experience turned out to be. Peggy, her husband Micah and the entire Bravo staff were a pleasure to work with and made filming remarkably easy.
Anton Aesthetics offers the full spectrum of plastic surgery and state-of-the-art skin care. To learn more about Dr. Anton and to view his portfolio of work, please visit AntonAesthetics.com. Anton Aesthetics: Mark A. Anton, M.D., F.A.C.S • Nancy Pellegrino, N.P. • 361 Hospital Road, Suite 427 • Newport Beach, CA • 949.722.1967 • AntonAesthetics.com 14 JUNE 2011
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