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What to Expect During Your Plastic Surgery Recovery Process

Undergoing plastic surgery is an exciting step toward achieving your desired aesthetic goals. However, the recovery process is just as crucial as the surgery itself. At Chicago Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology (CCSD), we prioritize a smooth, comfortable, and successful recovery, providing you with the guidance and support you need every step of the way. Here’s what you can expect during your recovery process with Dr. Christopoulos, a renowned double board-certified female plastic surgeon. The Immediate Post-Operative Phase: The First 24-48 Hours Recovery Room Care: After your procedure, you will be taken to a recovery room where our medical team will monitor you closely as you wake up from anesthesia. You may feel drowsy, but rest assured, you’re in expert hands. Pain Management: We use a combination of medications to control pain effectively. Most patients report feeling more discomfort than actual pain, which is well-managed with our tailored pain relief plan. Supportive Staff: Our highly trained nursing staff will ensure you are comfortable, provide initial post-op care instructions, and monitor vital signs before you’re ready to go home. What You Can Expect: You may feel groggy or slightly disoriented from the anesthesia. This is normal and should subside within a few hours. It’s essential to have a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours. First Few Days at Home: Rest and Initial Healing The first few days after surgery are focused on rest, hydration, and allowing your body to start the healing process. Follow Your Care Instructions Closely: Dr. Christopoulos will provide you with a detailed post-op care guide that outlines: How to Manage Swelling and Bruising: Swelling and bruising are normal parts of the healing process. To minimize discomfort, keep your head elevated (for facial procedures), use cold compresses as directed, and wear any recommended compression garments. Medication Schedule: Take prescribed medications exactly as instructed, including pain relievers, antibiotics, and anti-nausea medication, if needed. Diet and Hydration: Stick to a light, healthy diet and drink plenty of water. Avoid alcohol and caffeine during this initial phase to help your body heal. What You Can Expect: It’s normal to feel tired and sore. You may have some mild drainage from the incision sites. This is a normal part of the healing process and usually resolves within a few days. Managing Discomfort: Pain and Swelling Control Pain Relief: Most patients experience manageable discomfort rather than severe pain. Dr. Christopoulos will prescribe pain medications tailored to your needs, which can be adjusted based on your comfort level. Swelling Management: Swelling may be more noticeable in the first week. We recommend the use of cold compresses, lymphatic drainage massages (for certain procedures), and wearing compression garments as instructed. Tips for Swelling Reduction: Sleep with your head elevated (especially for facial surgeries). Avoid salty foods that can increase fluid retention. Stay as mobile as possible without overexerting yourself. Follow-Up Appointments: Monitoring Your Progress The First Post-Op Visit: Your first follow-up appointment with Dr. Christopoulos typically occurs within 3-7 days after surgery. During this visit, she will: Assess your healing and check for any signs of complications. Change your dressings and remove any initial sutures if needed. Answer any questions you may have about your progress. Why It’s Important: These appointments are crucial for ensuring you are healing properly and addressing any concerns early on. Dr. Christopoulos’s attentive approach means you’ll receive personalized care and guidance throughout your recovery. Returning to Your Routine: Gradual Increase in Activity While rest is essential in the initial phase, gradually increasing your activity is key to a successful recovery. Light Activity: In the first week, stick to light activities like gentle walking. This helps to promote circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots. Resuming Exercise: Most patients can return to light exercise (like walking or stretching) within 2-3 weeks, but avoid any strenuous activities, heavy lifting, or high-impact exercises for at least 4-6 weeks, depending on the procedure. Returning to Work: Depending on the surgery and your job’s physical demands, you may be able to return to work within 1-2 weeks for less invasive procedures, or 3-4 weeks for more extensive surgeries. Important Reminder: Listen to your body. If you feel pain or fatigue, take a break. Pushing yourself too hard can hinder the healing process. Scar Management and Post-Op Care: Achieving the Best Results Dr. Christopoulos is dedicated to minimizing scarring and optimizing your results. Our comprehensive scar management plan includes: Silicone Gel and Sheets: These medical-grade products help flatten and soften scars, making them less noticeable over time.  Silagen is available in the office and will be discussed with you by your provider and team. Laser Treatments: For patients who desire additional scar refinement, we offer in-office laser treatments to reduce redness and improve the appearance of scars. Sun Protection: Avoid direct sun exposure on your incisions, as UV rays can darken scars. Use a  sunscreen of SPF30 or higher, containing zinc oxide,  once you are cleared to do so.  Many choices are available in the office or online at chicagoskinscience.com What You Can Expect: Scars will initially appear red or pink, fading to a more natural color over time. Scars do remodel over 6-24 months, however if you have a scar that becomes raised, please let our office know as soon as possible, as we have ways to improve these.  Patience is key—scars can take several months to fully mature and fade. Long-Term Recovery and Maintaining Your Results While you’ll notice improvements within the first few weeks, full recovery can take several months depending on the procedure. Final Results: Swelling may take a few weeks to subside, but the full results of your surgery will continue to improve over 3-6 months as your body heals completely. Maintaining Your Outcome: Follow a healthy lifestyle, including proper diet and exercise, to maintain your surgical results. Regular follow-up visits with Dr. Christopoulos can help monitor your progress and address any questions. Our Commitment to You: At CCSD, we’re here to support you long after your surgery. If you have any concerns, questions, or need additional guidance, our team is always available to assist you. Your Personalized Recovery Kit: Enhancing Comfort and Healing To make your recovery process even smoother, we provide every patient with a Personalized Recovery Kit, which includes: Detailed post-op care instructions Medical-grade scar gel Cold packs for swelling Compression garments (if needed) A personalized thank-you note and direct contact information for our team Why This Matters: We want you to feel cared for and supported at every stage of your journey. Our Recovery Kit is designed to give you everything you need for a comfortable and successful recovery. Ready to Begin Your Journey? Experience Exceptional Care at CCSD At Chicago Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology, we are committed to providing an outstanding recovery experience tailored to your unique needs. Dr. Christopoulos and our entire team are here to ensure you feel confident, supported, and well-informed throughout the process. Your path to enhanced confidence and beauty doesn’t end with surgery—it continues through a successful, seamless recovery. If you have any questions or want to learn more about what to expect, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re excited to be a part of your transformation and look forward to seeing you thrive!

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Black Friday Deals available for purchase NOW!

BLACK FRIDAY DEALS $50 OFF a Dysport Wrinkle Relaxer Treatment with Dr. Tao or Dr. Croix Must be an Aspire Rewards member & can't have been treated within the past 90 days. Black Friday pricing is available now for pre-purchase. Complimentary consultations come with Black Friday purchases!       $250 OFF an EMSELLA Package!  Treat incontinence and overall improve sexual wellness in both men and women with EMSELLA. Black Friday pricing is available now for pre-purchase. Complimentary consultations come with Black Friday purchases!         $250 OFF a CoolSculpting Elite Package! Treat unwanted and stubborn fat with CoolSculpting Elite. Black Friday pricing is available now for pre-purchase. Complimentary consultations come with Black Friday purchases!   $1000 OFF an EMFACE Package!  Get special pricing on the revolutionary EMFACE. A 20 minute treatment with no downtime, no needles, no pain.. only results. EMFACE lifts & improves fine lines & wrinkles. Perfect for people who are interested in non-invasive or conservative methods to anti-aging. Black Friday pricing is available now for pre-purchase. Complimentary consultations come with Black Friday purchases!     $1000 OFF an EMSCULPT NEO Package! Build muscle and improve sagging skin with EMSCULPT NEO. Perfect for people who are losing weight or needing to catch up for loss time in the gym. Black Friday pricing is available now for pre-purchase. Complimentary consultations come with Black Friday purchases

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Register for the miraDry Webinar hosted by Nicoletta Ciraulo PA-C!

To prepare for sweat-free spring break 2025 -  Chicago Cosmetic Surgery & Dermatology presents our fall miraDry Webinar hosted by Nicoletta Ciraulo, PA-C! What better time than November during Hyperhidrosis Awareness Month?! What is it? Our miraDry Webinar is your opportunity to learn about the miraDry treatment and its fantastic results. miraDry provides people with hyperhidrosis permanent underarm sweat reduction. Nicoletta will have a presentation and afterward, the attendees can participate in a LIVE Q&A! Consider this your initial consultation. When is it? November 21st, 2024 at 5:30 pm on ZOOM. Secure your savings! People who attend the miraDry Webinar are given a free miraDry consultation with a certified Physician Assistant & a special offer of $250 OFF your treatment. How do i register? CLICK HERE TO REGISTER 

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What is EMSCULPT NEO?: Your Guide to Non-Invasive Body Contouring

EMSCULPT has emerged as a game-changer for those seeking a non-invasive body contouring solution. But what exactly is EMSCULPT, and how does it work? This guide will delve into the details of this innovative technology and its newer counterpart, EMSCULPT NEO. Understanding EMSCULPT EMSCULPT is an FDA-cleared device that uses High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic (HIFEM) technology to induce powerful muscle contractions. These contractions are far more intense than what you could achieve with regular workouts. The result? A tighter, more toned body. How Does It Work? When you undergo an EMSCULPT treatment, the practitioner will apply the EMSCULPT handpiece directly onto your skin on the target area. The HIFEM technology then causes supramaximal contractions in the muscles. In a single 30-minute session, your muscles in the treated area will undergo thousands of contractions, equivalent to doing thousands of crunches or squats. What Areas Can EMSCULPT Treat? While EMSCULPT was initially approved for use on the abdomen and buttocks, it has since received clearance for treatment of the waist, arms, calves, and thighs. Introducing EMSCULPT NEO Building on the success of EMSCULPT, the newer EMSCULPT NEO takes body contouring a step further. But what is EMSCULPT NEO, and how does it differ from its predecessor? EMSCULPT NEO combines the HIFEM technology of the original EMSCULPT with radiofrequency heating. This dual approach allows it to target both muscle and fat simultaneously. How does EMSCULPT NEO work? The radiofrequency energy heats the muscles and fat to roughly 108°F. This temperature optimizes an environment for muscle growth and triggers apoptosis in fat cells, causing them to die off. Meanwhile, the HIFEM energy contracts the muscles, just as in the original EMSCULPT treatment.   [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VkjwcKJyLP4[/embed]   EMSCULPT NEO Benefits and Results EMSCULPT NEO offers significant benefits for those looking to sculpt their bodies without surgery: Non-invasive treatment with no downtime Builds muscle and improves tone EMSCULPT NEO also reduces fat in the treated area Results can be seen and felt relatively quickly, with optimal results typically visible after a series of treatments It's important to note that while these treatments can provide impressive results, they're not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle. The best outcomes are seen in patients who combine EMSCULPT NEO treatments with a balanced diet and regular exercise routine. Is EMSCULPT NEO Right For You? EMSCULPT NEO can be an excellent option for those who are close to their ideal body weight but struggle with stubborn areas that don't respond well to diet and exercise alone. They're particularly effective for those who want to enhance muscle definition. However, these treatments aren't suitable for everyone. Pregnant women, people with metal or electronic implants in the treatment area, and those with certain health conditions should avoid EMSCULPT and EMSCULPT NEO. Schedule a Consultation For EMSCULPT NEO At Chicago Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology, our experienced team can assess your individual needs and create a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve your body contouring goals safely and effectively. If you're considering EMSCULPT NEO, we invite you to schedule a consultation. Our experts can answer any questions you may have and help determine if these innovative treatments are right for you.

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How Do I Stop Leaks When I Laugh, Cough, or Sneeze?

Urinary leaks often happen when you least expect them, and they can be both inconvenient and embarrassing. This common condition, known as stress urinary incontinence, affects both men and women, particularly as they age. This blog post is designed to provide understanding and support. We’ll overview the causes of urinary incontinence and offer effective solutions to help you manage and prevent unexpected leaks. Understanding Incontinence Urinary incontinence happens when you lose partial or complete control of your bladder function. It’s not a one-size-fits-all issue; there are many types of urinary incontinence, each with unique triggers and treatment strategies. Stress incontinence, as mentioned earlier, is triggered by pressure from activities like coughing, laughing, or exercising. It more commonly happens to people with weakened pelvic floor muscles, which can be caused by age or childbirth. Urge incontinence, on the other hand, involves a sudden, intense urge to urinate followed by involuntary leakage. Overflow incontinence occurs when the bladder fails to empty completely, leading to constant dribbling. Most people experience a combination of one or more types of incontinence. Speaking with a doctor is the best way to diagnose urinary incontinence and nail down which treatment methods will be most beneficial. Ways to Stop Peeing When You Laugh, Cough, or Sneeze Here are 5 effective methods to stop leaking urine when you laugh, cough, or sneeze. Kegels Kegel exercises are crucial for strengthening the pelvic floor muscles, which support the bladder and urethra. To perform Kegels, tighten the muscles you would use to stop urinating midstream, hold for several seconds, and then release. It's recommended to perform these exercises three times a day, doing at least 10 repetitions each time. Consistency is key, and you’ll typically see some improvement in urinary control after several weeks of regular practice. Strengthening Exercises In addition to Kegels, you can incorporate other pelvic floor strengthening exercises to further enhance muscle tone and control. Exercises like squats, bridges, and pelvic tilts are beneficial. Squats strengthen the buttocks and lower back, bridges target the lower pelvic region, and pelvic tilts focus on tightening the pelvic floor muscles. Integrating these exercises into your regular fitness routine can significantly improve pelvic health and reduce incidents of leakage. Lifestyle Changes Making specific lifestyle changes can profoundly improve your symptoms of urinary incontinence. Limiting fluids at certain times of the day, reducing the intake of diuretics like caffeine and alcohol, and avoiding spicy and acidic foods that irritate the bladder can help. Medications For some individuals, medications can help manage the symptoms of urinary incontinence. Anticholinergics can help with urgent urination, while topical estrogens can strengthen tissues in the urethra and vagina. Beta-3 agonists can relax the bladder muscle, allowing it to store more urine. It’s important to discuss these options with a healthcare provider to consider potential side effects and interactions with other medications. EMSELLA The EMSELLA chair treatment uses electromagnetic energy to deliver roughly 11,000 pelvic floor muscle contractions per session, effectively strengthening and re-educating these muscles. It’s particularly beneficial for those who find traditional Kegel exercises challenging. Typically, a complete treatment includes six sessions, each lasting about 30 minutes. This painless procedure allows patients to remain fully clothed and requires no recovery time. This makes it a convenient option for improving pelvic floor strength and reducing urinary incontinence. Find Long-lasting Relief From Leaks At Chicago Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology, we specialize in providing the latest treatments, including EMSELLA, to help you stop bladder leakage effectively. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a leak-free life.

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Register Now: Virtual Mommy Makeover Chat with Dr. Niki Christopoulos

Dr. Niki Christopoulos invites you to an exclusive virtual chat regarding Mommy Makeovers on Tuesday, October 29th from 4:00pm – 4:45pm! Dr. Christopoulos, a Double Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon, will discuss the combination of procedures involved in a mommy makeover procedure, show real patient results, and then have a real-time Anonyomous Q&A discussion. Names, Cameras, and Microphones will be private during this presentation. Click here to register via Zoom to join us, and we hope to see you there

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Day of Beauty Virtual Event 2024!

Thank you for attending our Day of Beauty Virtual Event! We love our patients!!   Our most anticipated event of the year, Day of Beauty, will be here before you know it! Join us virtually all-day on Thursday, October 10 and enjoy: Discounts on your favorite cosmetic treatments like Sofwave, Dysport, EMFACE, DiamondGlow, and EMSCULPT NEO just to name a few! Skincare deals on chicagoskinscience.com! Day of Beauty orders will receive a complimentary curated skincare sample bundle, while supplies last! Enter for a chance to win FREE cosmetic treatments and skincare products! (event-day purchase needed to be eligible for product raffle) Virtual all-day event, shop whenever you want on October 10th! Deals are also available if you are in our office for your appointment on October 10th! A portion of our event proceeds will go to the Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation, in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month.

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Welcome Dr. Joy Tao to Chicago Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology!

Chicago Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology is excited to announce that Joy Tao, MD, FAAD will be joining our Board-Certified and Fellowship-Trained Dermatologist team starting this September! Dr. Tao is a St. Louis native who received her undergraduate degree from the University of Notre Dame. She completed her medical education at Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine and stayed at Loyola University Medical Center for dermatology residency, where she served as Chief Resident. Dr. Tao recently completed a prestigious Cosmetic and Dermatologic Surgery Fellowship at the Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York under Dr. Roy Geronemus. During the fellowship, she was a sub-investigator for numerous clinical trials of energy-based devices and injectables. Dr. Tao is looking forward to opening her clinic to CCSD patients beginning Friday, September 6th, 2024! Book your appointment with Joy Tao, MD, FAAD by calling our helpful scheduling staff at (312) 245-9965 opt. 2.

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CoolSculpting vs EMSCULPT – Which is Better?

In the realm of non-surgical body contouring, two standout treatments have emerged as front runners—CoolSculpting and EMSCULPT. Each treatment offers unique body contouring benefits without the downtime associated with traditional surgery. This blog post explores the differences between these two innovative treatments. We’ll cover the technology behind each treatment, what areas of the body can be treated, who’s a candidate, and how results compare to each other. What’s the Difference Between CoolSculpting and EMSCULPT? The latest versions of these two treatments are CoolSculpting Elite and EMSCULPT NEO. Let’s compare and see which one could be the key to achieving your body contouring goals. Treatment CoolSculpting and EMSCULPT are both non-invasive body contouring treatments, but they target different needs. CoolSculpting reduces fat by freezing fat cells, which are then naturally eliminated by the body. EMSCULPT, on the other hand, uses electromagnetic energy to stimulate muscle contractions and Radiofrequency heating, enhancing muscle tone and reducing fat at the same time. Technology CoolSculpting utilizes a technology known as cryolipolysis to target and freeze fat cells, a process that selectively reduces fat layers without harming the skin or surrounding tissues. EMSCULPT uses High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic technology (HIFEM energy) to induce powerful muscle contractions not achievable through regular exercise. Areas Treated Both treatments have versatile applications. CoolSculpting can be used on nine different areas including the flanks, abdomen, thighs, under chin, back, and upper arms. EMSCULPT is typically applied to the abdomen, buttocks, triceps, biceps, and calves. The main difference is that CoolSculpting treats the under-chin area and back fat, while EMSCULPT does not. Candidates Ideal candidates for CoolSculpting are those looking to eliminate pockets of stubborn fat. EMSCULPT is best suited for individuals who want to reduce fat and improve muscle tone simultaneously. Coolsculpting is best suited for patients  close to their goal weight with a BMI of 30 or less, while EMSCULPT NEO can treat patients up to BMI 35. The Experience CoolSculpting involves a sensation of intense cold and suction as it works on fat cells, while EMSCULPT feels like an intensive workout with deep muscle contractions. Both body sculpting treatments are relatively comfortable and require no anesthesia, needles or downtime. Downtime Both procedures boast minimal to no downtime. Patients can return to daily activities immediately after a CoolSculpting or EMSCULPT session. Number of Sessions CoolSculpting typically requires 1 to 3 sessions for optimal results, depending on the treatment area and individual goals. EMSCULPT generally involves a series of 4 sessions, scheduled 5 to 10 days apart, to achieve the best outcomes in muscle tone and fat loss. Side Effects While both treatments are proven safe and effective, there are some possible side effects. CoolSculpting can cause temporary redness, swelling, and bruising. EMSCULPT may lead to muscle fatigue similar to what one might feel after a vigorous workout. Results CoolSculpting results are typically seen within one to three months post-treatment as the body processes and removes dead fat cells. In clinical trials, CoolSculpting eliminated up to 25% of fat in the treated area. EMSCULPT results can be noticed as early as a few weeks after the first session, with improvements continuing for several weeks. In EMSCULPT clinical trials, patients reported high levels of satisfaction with treatments, and saw on average a 30% fat reduction and 25% increase in muscle mass after just four sessions. Which is Better – EMSCULPT or CoolSculpting? Choosing between CoolSculpting and EMSCULPT depends on your goals—whether you are looking to reduce fat specifically or also increase muscle mass. Booking a cosmetic consultation with one of our Physician Assistants is the best way to find the right technology for your body contouring goals. Schedule a Consultation with our Team Ready to explore which treatment is right for you? Schedule a consultation with our highly qualified team at Chicago Cosmetic Surgery and Dermatology. We are here to guide you through your options and help you achieve your aesthetic goals with the most advanced treatments available. Call (312) 245-9965 to request a consultation!

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Client Reviews

Love love Dr. Ibrahim. He helped me to find a combination that helps with my acne scars due to cystic acne in my teenage year. Just like anything in medicine, good things take time with a good skin care and medical grade products. I continue to see him for Botox concurrently with the acne scar regimen, so l can get a snatch jawline again. He is funny and a knowledgeable. The best compliment I had was when my patient see me every 3 months saw my skin recently and complimented on it. I have found myself not wearing makeup and only using tinted SPF.

— Huong Iodice

Dr. Grushchak is my favorite derm I've been to so far. She is very professional and has great bedside manner. Same thing goes for all the staff. I always see great results after leaving the office. The office itself is very clean and enjoyable to visit. Would definitely recommend.

— Krystyna Marynevytch

This is nicest place I have ever seen looks like a luxury spa. Everyone is nice and friendly. Looks amazing and they help me with my Personal skin issues. Whitney was awesome to work with . Great team work *** Appreciate everyone love this place

— Daniel Nino

Thank you to the friendly staff at CCSD for always making my visits pleasant and efficient! An even bigger thank you to Dr. Jacob for the phenomenal job she did all but erasing a scar on my face from skin cancer, and the amazing job she always does defying Mother Nature keeping my face looking young and alert!

— Christopher

Dr. Ibrahim is AMAZING. He has such a wonderful “bed side manner” and his experience is multifaceted. I go to him for both regular skin concerns and cosmetic reasons and he has been able to help with every issue I have! He is by far the best dermatologist I have been to and I recommend him 100%!

— Maddy

Loved results..and my daughter had microdermabrasion and beautiful results..they r so professional and very organized..appointment times right on schedule..no waiting. I would say this is the best place in Chicago..for any needs of the face. They are the experts..

— Rosalina

I am BEYOND obsessed with this place! From the front door staff, to the medical assistants to wonder women herself (Dr. Jacob) and her amazing counter parts- hands down the most magical experience EVER! Not to mention if you’re going here for cosmetic reasons, Dr. Ibrahim is an absolute MAGICIAN/WIZARD with injectables! My lips are the best on Instagram! I 100000% recommend this place over and over and over again!

— Kelly

I have lines above the bridge of my nose, wanted a more relaxed, rested look. I had a dysport appointment, it was ontime, my nurse asked if I had any concerns.I was a little nervous… Then Dr. Jacob came in, made sure I was comfortable. She asked if I wanted more of an arch in my eyebrow. She said it would really opened my eye area… 4 days later… Full effect…AWESOME results!! Very…

— Gracie

I’ve been seeing Dr. Ibrahim Omer for a few months now for some derm issues (perioral dermatitis, eczema). He instantly identifies the problem and prescribes appropriately. He is also great with taking the time to explain what’s happening, and how to manage the medications and creams once I get home. I’ve never done botox or fillers, but am planning to return for a little boost once my skin heals. The front desk is attentive, and appointments run on time. I’ve never waited more than a few minutes.

— Lindsay

4.8

1,000+ reviews

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