Breast Implants | What is Capsular Contracture?

Posted on | May 15, 2012 | 1 Comment

Breast Augmentation and Capsular Contracture

One of the side effects that can occur from having breast implants is a “capsular contracture.” When an implant (or any foreign device for that matter) is inserted in the body, a tissue lining is formed. This lining is commonly known as a “capsule” or “tissue capsule” or “scar capsule, “ although it is not the same thing as scar tissue. It’s your body’s natural response to a foreign object.

Capsular contracture is most common in the first several months after surgery but can happen any time. When the surgery is first done, a pocket is made for the implant, and during the healing process after the surgery, the fibrous tissue forms the capsule. Your body is genetically programmed to shrink this scar tissue somewhat, and in normal cases, the pocket stays open allowing the implant to look and feel natural.

In some cases, the capsule will tighten and squeeze the implant, making it feels hard and distorting the appearance. Later on, the implant can feel very firm and have a ball-like look.

Reasons for capsular contracture are pretty unclear. It could be caused by germ contamination or long-term contamination of the implant shell that could lead to shrinking of the capsule. Also, implants above the muscle, known as subglandular placement, have a higher rate of capsular contracture than implants that are behind the muscle. Contractures are also likely following an infection, or if you have had seroma or a hemotaoma. Hematomas can cause an inflammatory reaction which can lead to this condition. Finally, smoking is known to increase the risk of capsular contracture. Smoking decreases the oxygen levels in the blood, which can delay health and possibly cause an inflammatory reaction.

• Baker Grading System – 4 Grades of Capsular Contracture
• Baker Grade 1 – The breast is normally soft, and looks natural. (Basically, we all have this, since we all have a “capsule”.) It is only when the capsule starts shrinking/contracting that capsule contracture occurs.
• Baker Grade II – The breast is a little firm, but appears natural.
• Baker Grade III – The breast is firm, and is beginning to appear distorted in shape.
• Baker Grade IV – The breast is hard, and has become quite distorted in shape. Pain/discomfort may be associated with this level of capsule contracture.

Some surgeons recommend massage after surgery to greatly reduce the risk of capsular contraction. Check the blog tomorrow for proper massage technique following a breast augmentation.

Posh Spice may have had a capsular contraction, which looks as though it has since been replaced.

via Capsular Contracture | Reveal Your Beauty.

Medical Tourism: Market Grows for Cost Conscious Patients

Posted on | May 14, 2012 | 3 Comments

Lap band surgery

After losing 120 pounds with lap band surgery only to see his weight rebound, Houston resident Cory Worrell was determined to find a more permanent and affordable solution to his life-long struggle with weight –- even if he had to leave the country to do it.

The self-employed, stay-at-home dad weighed 360 pounds at one time. His lap band surgery six years ago was successful, but he gradually gained most of it back. Worrell’s wife and another family member had experienced significant success with gastric bypass surgery, so he considered going under the knife -– or laparoscopic surgical tools –- for a second time.

But this time, Worrell didn’t have employer-provided insurance like he did for the first surgery. He looked south of the border to explore affordable, yet high-quality medical care in Mexico.

“Since I no longer worked at a big company, I no longer had insurance to pay for a costly elective surgery,” he said. “I started looking into how much it would cost to have gastric bypass done in the United States, and most of the quotes I got were $35,000. That’s quite a bit of money to come up with.”

Worrell is among a growing number of Americans who simply cannot afford the high cost of American healthcare. Instead of choosing to postpone or forego surgical procedures, Americans are increasingly traveling abroad to explore their healthcare options.

“I started looking up doctors in Mexico, and everything I read about Dr. Alberto Aceves, I couldn’t find one negative comment about him,” Worrell said. “They quoted me $12,000 for the revision from lap band to gastric bypass with a six-day stay in the hospital -– at an actual hospital.”

Prevalence of Medical Tourism

According to Patients Beyond Borders, a consumer information resource about international medical and health travel, medical tourism is an expanding market that sees an average of 25-30% growth each year. In 2011, the organization estimated that the market was about $15 billion with about 5 million patients worldwide. Josef Woodman, Patients Beyond Borders CEO, estimates that in 2012, about 600,000 Americans will travel for healthcare outside the United States.

Members of the American medical community have differing opinions about medical tourism, the American Medical Association recognized the prevalence of the industry enough to issue guidelines for health travelers.

Woodman and the American Medical Association say one of the most important factors to research is healthcare facility accreditation. Establishing international standards for healthcare facilities has also contributed to the growth of the medical tourism industry. The U.S.-based Joint Commission launched its international affiliate agency in 1999, the Joint Commission International (JCI) that gives the only American stamp of approval accreditation to international hospitals. In order to be accredited by the JCI, an international hospital must meet the same set of rigorous standards set forth in the U.S. by the Joint Commission, Patients Beyond Borders site says.

“In 2005, there were less than 40 JCI accredited hospitals, now there are almost 500 worldwide, and that number is growing by about 20% per year,” Woodman said. “JCI accreditation gives American health travelers reassurance that they can expect these facilities to meet the benchmark of quality care standards.”

For example, Thailand is home to the JCI accredited Bumrungrad International, that Patients Beyond Borders refers to as the “granddaddy of international hospitals” and Asia’s first American accredited facility, with 225 U.S. board certified physicians and surgeons. The hospital serves 400,000 international patients annually from 120 countries, including 25,000 American patients each year.

Where To, and What For?

Patients Beyond Borders cites the most common procedures for Americans to receive abroad are elective including cosmetic surgery, dentistry, orthopedics, reproductive/fertility treatments and weight loss surgery.

The global healthcare market is expanding, building new hospitals and offering more procedures every year, but the most popular medical tourism destinations include:

• Antigua for addiction and recovery
• Barbados and Israel for fertility/IVF
• Brazil for cosmetic surgery
• Thailand for nearly all specialties
• Costa Rica and Hungary for dentistry
• India for orthopedics and cardiology
• Malaysia for health screenings
• Mexico for dentistry and bariatrics
• Singapore for cancer
• South Africa for cosmetics and cardiology
• Turkey for vision

China, Puerto Rico and United Arab Emirates are also emerging markets, according to the Patients Beyond Borders site.

Who is Seeking Healthcare Abroad?

Woodman says in his many travels to tour international healthcare facilities, the global demographics of health travelers run the gamut. In his book, Patients Beyond Borders: Everybody’s Guide to World-Class Affordable Medical Travel, he wrote that people travel abroad for healthcare to gain access to specialties not found in their own country and to reduce the waiting list in countries with universal healthcare, but the top reason Americans travel abroad for healthcare is cost savings.

“Millions of Americans are uninsured or underinsured, and the aging baby boomer population is facing a slew of costly critical and quality of life healthcare expenses including cardiac and orthopedic surgeries,” Woodman said. “We are seeing middle-aged, pre-Medicare Americans between 45-65 seeking treatment for standard aging issues such as orthopedic surgeries, and destructive lifestyle such as bariatric weight loss surgery.”

For example, as of August 2011, a coronary artery bypass graft would cost about $88,000 in the United States, but by going overseas, patients could save up to 80% for the same procedure in an accredited hospital in India for only $9,500. A knee replacement would cost $34,000 in the U.S., but only $10,500 in Mexico. A facelift would cost $14,500 in the U.S., but only $4,800 in Costa Rica.

Experiencing Surgery Abroad

Worrell estimates that he saved nearly $23,000 by getting his gastric bypass surgery done in Mexico. He could buy a car or pay for a portion of his kids’ college education with those savings. The process couldn’t have been simpler, he said. He flew to San Diego and a representative from the doctor’s practice picked him up to drive him over the border to Mexicali. The night before his surgery, he stayed in a nice hotel while he did his pre-op blood work, tests and consultations.

“Having small children, I didn’t want to go overseas, and I didn’t want to have to take a long flight home after surgery. Most people have someone go with them, but I just told my wife to stay here with the kids. I didn’t have any problems,” he said.

Considering the abundance of crime in many Mexico border towns, Worrell was initially concerned about his safety, but he remained close to his hotel and the hospital, and didn’t encounter any difficulties at the border.

“You have to do your homework and be careful,” he said. “You can easily get yourself into some dangerous situations. I read about some recovery houses in Mexico that were just a bunch of patients in bunk beds.”

With a quick and easy recovery, Worrell said he was up and walking the day after surgery, though had six days before heading home. Overall, Worrell said his surgical experience was positive and he would recommend both the doctor and hospital to others.

“One of the best things about the experience was how attentive the doctors and staff were,” he said. “The doctor would come and check on me six to eight times a day. In the U.S., you would never see your doctor that many times.”

He hasn’t been back to Mexicali for follow-up visits in person, but in the months since his surgery, he’s had continuous contact his doctor with nearly weekly e-mails to check up on him.

Finding a Doctor and a Hospital

Finding a reputable doctor is a top priority, and Woodman recommends medical tourists to not only rely on the internet for their search. Potential patients can start with a site like MedEGuide for more information on international doctors, but Woodman suggests reaching out to accredited hospitals, interviewing physician candidates on the phone (insist on English-speaking doctors) and seeking word of mouth recommendations. Once patients narrow their search, Patients Beyond Borders suggests these questions to ask physician candidates.

Worrell found his doctor on the Internet and through a family friend’s recommendation, but many health travelers are starting from scratch. The Patients Beyond Borders site features numerous hospital reviews, information on accreditation and different procedures, patient testimonials, and cost comparisons.

Taking the risk

Much like travel agents for vacations, many health travelers depend upon medical travel facilitators to help find doctors and hospitals, and make travel and accommodation arrangements, but Woodman advises buyers to beware.

“You have to be careful about medical travel facilitators, in fact, there are only a handful of them that we recommend,” Woodman said. “They aren’t regulated, so there is a lot of room for predatory practices. They are often founded by well-meaning former medical travel patients who want to help others, but you need to be very careful about checking credentials, and getting patient recommendations, and never seek or accept any kind of diagnosis from them.”

What if something goes wrong during or after the procedure? Woodman says patients frequently want to know if they can seek legal recourse for surgeries gone wrong or post operative complications.

“The U.S. is well known as Earth’s most litigious nation. For better or worse, most countries outside the U.S. do not share our attitude toward personal and institutional liability,” Woodman wrote. “While all countries listed in Patients Beyond Borders have established channels of legal recourse, the intricacies of working with foreign statutes, legal systems, and counsel make such action impractical except in the most egregious cases.”

The Patients Beyond Borders website and book cover many aspects of medical travel, they also offer a concise list of “Do’s and Don’ts”:

• Plan ahead: Don’t schedule a surgery and flights during peak tourist seasons because you will be competing for the best airfare, the best doctors and the best accommodations.
• Be sure about the diagnosis and treatment preferences: Knowing everything about the procedure to find the best doctor for the job.
• Research the in-country doctor thoroughly.
• Don’t rely completely on the Internet during the search process.
• Get everything in writing: Cost estimates, reservations, appointments, recommendations, airfare, and accommodations.
• Insist on English: This is not the time to brush up on your Spanish. There are plenty of English speaking doctors who can do the procedure.
• Don’t schedule the trip too tightly: Make time for scheduling, travel, or weather delays. A rule of thumb, add one more day for every five days you are scheduled to be there.
• Call banks and credit cards before the trip alerting them to allow foreign transactions.
• Patients should inform their personal physicians about any major medical decisions.
• Don’t go cheap on accommodations and don’t stay too far from the treatment center.
• Comply with doctor’s orders.
• Don’t go home too soon: Follow doctor’s recommendation on recovery time and allow for a couple extra days. Long flights after complex surgeries can endanger a full recovery.
• Don’t be too adventurous with local cuisine: Digestive fireworks are not going to help with recovery or preparation for a procedure.
• Get all the paperwork before returning to the U.S. including all recommendations, files, medical records, x-rays, prescriptions and post-operative treatment plans before leaving.

Back Home and On the Mend

Since having bariatric surgery in February, Worrell said he had lost about 55 pounds by early April and has seen his quality of life improve.

“I have more energy, I can play with the kids more, my knees don’t creak like they were, and I’m living a healthier lifestyle right now. It’s been great.”

-Follow Elise Rambaud Marrion, @emarrion_cmn.

Article posted by – Consumer Media Network; 10 May 2012

Most Popular Male Plastic Surgery Procedures

Posted on | May 11, 2012 | 2 Comments

Cosmetic surgery for Men

It is not just women receiving plastic surgery treatments any longer. Male plastic surgery has been significantly on the rise and there doesn’t seem to be a slow down occurring anytime soon. Men have realized that it is no longer something they have to hide within their circle of friends. Plastic surgery is there for everyone to take advantage of.

A recent study was done to identify some of the top plastic surgery treatments for males and the numbers go as follows:

• Hair transplant – 18,062
• Rhinoplasty – 30,174
• Blepharoplasty – 28,678
• Gynecomastia – 19,124
• Lipoplasty – 31,453

via Most Popular Male Plastic Surgery Procedures

PIP breast implants: A legal precedent for medical tourism?

Posted on | May 10, 2012 | No Comments

PIP breast implants

There is very little case law on medical tourism, but the PIP breast implants scandal could provide an indication on who is liable for what when treatment does not go as planned.

In December 2011, news broke that breast implantssupplied by the French manufacturer, Poly Implant Prosthèse (PIP) and used in Europe since 2001 contain sub-standard non-medical grade silicone. The rupture rate in PIP breast implants was confirmed as being much higher than other types of silicone. So, concerns were raised that when they do rupture, they release non-medical-grade silicone into the body, and this may have harmful effects. Disgruntled patients are fighting for compensation and the removal and replacement of these implants.

Could medical tourism agencies be held liable?

Medical negligence law within Europe mostly assumes that the hospital/clinic is liable for any negligent act, although in some cases the doctor/ surgeon can also be personally liable.

But the law has not caught up with the world of medical tourism where the customer arranges treatment via a medical tourism agent; and there are many unanswered questions on whether the agent is an agent of the customer or of the hospital or both.

Agencies have assumed that, as most claims are in tort (a civil case for negligence), that they cannot be guilty of anything, as they have no control over the medical procedures. But it appears likely that class actions on PIP implants will be under contract law, which makes the person the customer dealt with the primary culprit. This could be deemed to be the agent or facilitator.

Planned class/group actions from 50 law firms on behalf of 40,000 UK women who had PIP implants may, or may not, produce guidance. The claims could be made both under standard negligence (tort) and also under contract law. Under contract law, the argument is whether or not the contract is with the hospital or with the agent or the surgeon, or some combination. In any group action it would be normal for lawyers to jointly sue the agency and the clinic to ensure no wriggle room and leave the defendants to argue who pays what share of any damages and costs.

The need for professional indemnity insurance

This case could be a benchmark for medical tourism as if the agency is also or even solely legally responsible under contract and/ or tort it would make it vital for all such agencies to buy professional indemnity insurance. Few buy this at present but there are special covers around for medical tourism. Many small agencies do not buy it as it is not cheap and they feel that they are not legally liable. If a claim succeeds against an agency with no insurance, then it could bankrupt the company. If the agency is not a company but run as a sole trader, the claim would be against the owner’s personal assets. This may be a good argument for all agencies to trade as a limited company, not as a sole trader or partnership.

Taking UK patients as an example, whether they had treatment in the UK or Europe, if they dealt direct with the clinic then the clinic is the one to sue. But if they dealt via an agent, they may sue the agent, not the clinic. Bearing in mind the number of people who could sue, and the number of lawyers involved, the defence costs, even if the clinics and agencies are proved totally innocent, could be huge.

40,000 women in Britain have undergone breast surgery or breast enlargement using PIP implants,.  Private clinics / hospitals performed 95% of the related operations; the remainder were carried out by the NHS. The implants contain industrial rather than medical grade silicone. Following the recall of the im

plants by the French medical regulatory authority, PIP went into liquidation.

Who pays?

The issue, for patients and their legal advisers is what is to be done and who is to pay.  For patients treated privately who, if anyone, is legally responsible for the predicament in which they now find themselves? Breast augmentation surgery is a works and materials contract and is governed by The Supply of Goods and Services Act 1982 (SGSA), which requires goods supplied under such contracts to be of satisfactory quality (SGSA section 2). The normal defence of the costs of rectifying the damage being too high in relation to the problem is unlikely to work here. So the women can sue for the costs of having the product removed and/or replaced. The remedies are exercisable against the person with whom the patient had entered into the contract for the supply of goods and services.

Usually this will be with the clinic.  In some cases the claim may be made against the surgeon who performed the surgery. In some cases where the patient had an exclusive contract with a third party who then sub-contracted to purchase theatre facilities and nursing care from a hospital or clinic and surgical skills from a surgeon it is likely that only the third party contractor could be claimed against since in such circumstances the patient is unlikely to have had a contract with the sub-contractors.

A negligence claim can be an alternative, as it is not necessary for there to be a contractual link between the parties to the action:  one need only show that the defendant owed the claimant a duty of care, and such duty has been breached.   This breach of duty could apply equally to the surgeon, the clinic and the agent.

Ian Adamson of Bircham Dyson Bell comments, “With action against the manufacturer futile, the most likely means of redress for an affected patient is a claim against the person with whom she had the contract for her treatment.  Who this is will vary from case to case, and will not necessarily be the hospital where the procedure was carried out or the surgeon who performed it.”

If a medical tourism agency is operating without professional negligence cover, is it putting its business at risk?

Article posted by IMTJ 4th May 2012 – PIP breast implants: A legal precedent for medical tourism?

Cosmetic Surgery – Vaser® Liposuction

Posted on | May 7, 2012 | No Comments

Vaser® Liposuction

Liposuction is the procedure by which unwanted fat is removed from those areas of the body where fat accumulates and is impervious to any weight loss regimes. Areas affected can range from the abdomen, thighs and buttocks, to the neck, backs of the arms and elsewhere. The tissues which cause fats to accumulate on the surface of the skin are removed by way of surgery thereby rendering the skin looking tighter and younger.

There are several different liposuction procedures available so it is important for a patient to discuss their needs and aspirations fully with their doctor and investigate the options available. VASER® (Vibration Amplification of Sound Energy at Resonance) Lipo or liposuction is one of the most popular methods of liposuction due to the precision with which the procedure cantarget the desired area; the effectiveness of this procedure and because it leaves only very tiny incision scars on the skin of less than half an inch while involving less down time after the procedure. Vaser® liposuction uses ultrasound to break up and flush out the fat accumulated on a body area with minimal effect on the surrounding tissues, blood vessels, nerves etc.

Frequently asked questions:

• Who is Vaser® Liposuction for?
• What can I expect?
• What does the surgery involve?
• What will recovery be like?
• What are the possible risks or complications?
• What will be the overall outcome of the procedure?
• Who is Vaser® Liposuction for?

People who want to lose the firm and rigid body fat from certain parts of the body like abdomen, thighs, buttocks, upper arms, chin, chests, neck and back, which is otherwise impervious to weight loss diets and work-outs, can opt for Vaser® liposuction. A good candidate for liposuction will be over 18, in good general health, have an on-going diet and exercise regime and will not have smoked for several months. Diabetes, any infection, heart or circulation problems weigh against the eligibility of a person for the procedure.

What can I expect?

After the Vaser® liposuction procedure there is an initial swelling on the operated body area for about two to four weeks. The perfect contour of the body will be visible after about three months. However, it is important to have realistic expectations from the surgery. Vaser® liposuction is an answer for the removal of spot fat from isolated body areas but is not a viable solution for obese people; it is not intended as a weight loss solution for body fat that has accumulated due to lack of exercise or poor quality diet. The goal of Vaser® liposuction is to create a slimmer natural silhouette. You may not notice a significant amount of weight loss, but
you should be pleased with your slimmer new shape.

What does surgery involve?

The surgery and its duration typically depends upon the body area to be treated. Smaller procedures can be performed under the influence of local anesthesia but if the procedure is major then a general anesthesia would be given. Because Vaser® liposuction involves only ultrasound procedures the time taken to heal is considerably reduced and the patient can go home the same day.

What will recovery be like?

The surgery is safe and the patient may experience only mild to moderate post-operative pain. There will be small incisions made on the skin surface which may swell slightly but which will generally begin to subside in a couple of days. The beneficial body countering results are evident soon after the swelling settles down.

What are the possible risks or complications?

Vaser® liposuction procedure requires few and very small incisions. There may be a small collection of fluid under the skin of the area operated upon but this will dissipate quickly. As with most invasive surgical procedures the minimisation of risk and negative after effects also a swift and successful recovery will depend largely on pre-operative preparation and post-operative care. Before surgery no anticoagulants should be taken for two weeks and smoking must be avoided two months prior to surgery. After surgery the patient must maintain a proper diet and exercise regimen relative to the surgery undergone and rest.

What will be the overall outcome of the procedure?

Vaser® liposuction is the best option for spot reduction of weight. Eating a healthy diet and regular exercise can help you maintain the new shape of your body and make it your permanent attribute. The self-confidence and envy you may attract is the icing on the cake!

Breast Augmentation – Happy 50th

Posted on | April 17, 2012 | No Comments

Breast implants – top 10 myths

Fifty years have passed since the first breast augmentation was performed in 1962 and yet the public still has wrongful information and many misconceptions about this most popular cosmetic operation.

In John Anastasatos’ Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery practice, where he specialises in breast augmentation, the following 10 myths are heard daily.

1) Breast implants must be changed every ten years.

False. There is no medical necessity for breast implants to be replaced every ten years. Breast implants should be replaced when there is a problem or the patient desires a change. In my Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery practice most of my patients change their implants to go bigger or switch from saline to silicone.

2) Saline breast implants are safer than silicone ones.

False. Saline implants were largely used because silicone implants were thought to cause medical problems. That was never proven to be true. Today silicone breast implants are preferred by plastic surgeons and patients.

3) Under the muscle is better than over the muscle.

False. The practice of placing breast implants under the pectoralis major muscle depends on individual breast anatomy and the type of breast implants selected. Some patients get better results with the breast implants under the pectoralis major muscle while others over the muscle.

4) Textured breast implants can prevent capsular contracture (scar tissue) formation.

False. Textured means that the breast implant surface is rough. The rough surface causes a mild inflammation and helps the implant to adhere to the tissues. This was thought to decrease the incidence of capsular contracture but was never proven to be true.

5) Breast implants cause cancer.

The information we have up to date does not support such claim. This year is the 50th anniversary since the first breast augmentation. If breast implants caused cancer we would know by now. There has been a recent report that a type of lymphoma was found on the capsule surrounding breast implants in some women with prior breast augmentation. This does not mean that in those people the lymphoma was caused by the presence of the breast implants. More investigation is currently being undertaken. Apart from this recent report there has never been any association between silicone gel or saline-filled breast implants with any cancer in the body. There is simply no cause and effect relationship between breast implants and cancer.

6) You cannot breast feed after you have had a breast augmentation.

False. When a breast augmentation is done via an incision through the inframammary fold, armpit, or belly button there is not usually a problem with breast-feeding.

7) I will lose breast or nipple sensation if I get a breast augmentation.

False. If the breast augmentation is done via an incision in the breast fold, then on the contrary women’s nipple sensitivity may be heightened.

8.) You need breast implants for a breast lift.

False. Breast implants are not a treatment for breast sagginess. Only a breast lift (mastopexy) corrects sagginess.

9) Darker skinned people are prone to darker, thicker and more visible scars.

False. Black, Latin, Indian and southern European patients often believe this to be true. It is not. The color of the skin does not affect the wound healing process and thus does not affect the eventual look of an incision.

10) Natural breast augmentation with fat is better.

False. Talking a person’s own fat with liposuction and adding it to the breasts may create future problems because some of the fat transferred will perish within a year.

via Happy 50th Birthday Breast Augmentation! The Top 10 Myths According to… — BEVERLY HILLS, Calif., April 12, 2012 /PRNewswire/ –.

Derma Fillers

Posted on | April 11, 2012 | No Comments

Derma Fillers - Restylane | Juvederm | Perlane

If you are looking for a safe, quick and cost-effective process for doing away with facial wrinkles, folds and contour lines without the discomfort of surgery, then a dermal filler treatment may just be the best for you.

Dermal fillers are injected into your skin, accentuating your natural appearance, enhancing your skin texture and quality, achieving a fresher more youthful look; smoothing out wrinkles, lines, folds and sunken cheeks. Painless to inject, dermal fillers have consistent and predictable results, feel natural under the skin, take little time to inject, exert no downtime on the patient and have a low risk of complications. In fact the process is so comfortable and quick to professionally administer a term ‘lunch-time procedures’ has been coined to indicate the ease of use of this globally popular facial enhancement process now the fastest growing segment of cosmetic surgery.

Dermal fillers are most commonly used for lip enhancement (volume and contouring) diminishing wrinkles and aging lines of the face such as nose to mouth lines, so called ‘sad mouth corners’,  ‘crow’s feet’ aside the eyes and frown lines or forehead wrinkles. The fillers may also be used for filling aging-related facial hollows and ‘orbital troughs’ (under and around the eyes) as well as increasing cheek volume and contouring of the chin, forehead and nose.

While the natural process of aging can’t be reversed, dermal fillers can enhance an otherwise perfectly healthy, beautiful skin minus the wrinkles, lines and loss of volume which occur naturally to both women and men after the age of thirty five.

The most frequently used dermal filler is Restylane (1996) the trade name for a range of non-animal sourced hyaluronic acid injectable fillers; approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for cosmetic injection into sub dermal facial tissues and reportedly, has been used in over 11 million treatments worldwide (2010). Restylane, Perlane, Juvederm and Prevelle Silk are all trade name dermal fillers, made of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in humans essential to plump and youthful-looking skin.

Before Restylane, dermal fillers were made of animal products such as bovine collagen (derived from cows), silicone (sometimes toxic), or body fat (a live and sometimes unpredictable substance). Hyaluronic acid dermal fillers are a better option because the body already produces the chemical naturally, hardly ever causes an allergic reaction, and gives a smoother, more natural appearance.

Derma Fillers – Frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions:

• Who is it for?
• What can I expect?
• What does the procedure involve?
• What will recovery look like?
• What are the possible risks or complications?

Who is it for?

Women and men who have visible wrinkles or lines or folds or sagging skin on their face and want to be rid of them effectively, quickly, painlessly. Dermal fillers smooth out fine lines giving back the natural firmness in cheeks, lips, jaws, the area around the eyes, nose and tear troughs.  The optimal age for a patient to begin use of dermal fillers is in their 40s to early 50s.

What can I expect?

The results of a dermal filler treatment are visible almost immediately as it is effective in instantly plumping up and smoothing out sunken facial features. Duration of the beneficial effects of this treatment depends on factors like the individual’s skin type, lifestyle and age. After the initial treatment, follow-up sessions are normally recommended around every 6 to 12 months depending on the individual and the treatment. A treatment of the lips lasts about 6 months.

What does the procedure involve?

The dermal filler treatment involves your surgeon injecting the appropriately selected filler into the facial areas which need to be treated. Before injecting a local anesthesia is administered to patients. The procedure is quick, comfortable and painless while treatments have a recovery time of 2 to 3 days.

What will recovery be like?

There is absolutely no pain experienced by the patients during or following the injection procedure. Some patients may experience temporary swelling and numbness for a few days or a slight redness of the skin around the treated area and in very rare cases, this may be followed by swelling for twenty four to forty eight hours at maximum. Your surgeon will advise on how best to manage this temporary condition.

What are the possible risks or complications?

Even though side effects are rare dermal fillers should not be used in or near areas where there is or has been skin disease, inflammation or related conditions. Restylane and other brand name dermal fillers have not been tested on pregnant or breast-feeding women. During your pre-treatment consultation, you should thoroughly discuss your medical history with your practitioner.

Phuket Surgery | cosmetic surgery Phuket

Posted on | April 10, 2012 | No Comments

Cosmetic surgery Phuket – Breast Surgery Recovery Information Pack

It’s the moment you have been waiting for, almost. Your breast augmentation surgery is over, but you are about to embark on the breast augmentation recovery process. The shape and size of the breasts and chest is different from one woman to another. They are also different between the left and right sides. Sometimes the original shape of the breast or chest and the differences between the left and right sides will not give the usual pleasing looks after breast enlargement. Compromises may have to be made to give the best possible result.

In just about every woman there is a difference in appearance between the left and right breast. This could be due to the difference between the left and right chest wall (rib cage). One side might stick out more than the other side. The breast volume and shape is also different between the left and right sides. The skin tone and muscle tension is also different between the left and right sides. Sometimes after breast enlargement the difference will be even more obvious. If the differences between the left and right sides are very obvious then different size implants may have to be used to try and even out the appearance where possible. Even then the left and right sides may still look different after the surgery. In other words it is impossible to match the left and right sides exactly after a breast augmentation surgery.

The gap between the breasts may be wide before the enlargement. In such cases the gap would remain the same or the gap may be even more noticeable after breast enlargement. Cleavage in such cases is harder to achieve especially if the skin in the area is thin. When implants are placed behind the muscle in such situations the gap may appear even wider and cleavage is even harder to achieve.  This is because the muscle attachments prevent the implants to be placed closer to the middle of the chest.

Some women are very thin. In this circumstance, there is a possibility of being able to feel the edge of the implant or in some cases seeing the wrinkles of the implant.

Waking Up After Breast Augmentation

After you wake up and are brought into the recovery room, a nurse will monitor you until you are ready to be returned to your private room. How long this takes varies, but usually it takes at least two hours. As the anesthesia wears off, you will feel sore and possibly confused. Your vision may be blurry and you may be extremely sleepy. If you feel any pain, ask for a pain reliever. You may also feel very cold and start shivering immediately after your surgery. This is usually from the medications. The shivering can also be due to the temperature of the operating room. Ask for a blanket if you feel uncomfortably cold.

As you will have had general anesthesia, you may feel nauseated. Medication can help. Make sure to tell your surgeon or anesthesiologist if you don’t feel well. Following a Breast Augmentation, the breasts may appear to be placed quite high up. This is also normal. During the first two months postoperatively the breast implants will gradually lower and settle from the effects of gravity into a more natural position. Do not be alarmed if one side settles quicker than the other, as this sometimes occurs

Drains After Your Breast Augmentation Recovery

Your surgeon may have placed one or more drains in your incision to remove excess fluid. (The fluid may be pinkish or brownish.) These thin plastic tubes may be left in place over night after surgery. There may be a little irritation around the edges of the incision due to the drain

Compression Garments ,

The hospital will supply you with one support bra or boon tube style bra upon discharge from the hospital.

Scars

All breast augmentation techniques will leave a permanent scar behind, which is meant to be as inconspicuous as possible after healing. Though uncommon, extensive scarring is a possible complication of breast augmentation. Remember that your scars will get worse before they get better. Your incision will heal, but scars go through a series of changes before they are completely healed and that can take months. Scarring is the result of the body’s attempt to heal the site of a cut, burn, or other wound. When the body heals from injury it produces an overabundance of collagen, which forms a scar. This production of collagen is kept in check by an enzyme aptly named collagenase that melts collagen away. During the initial healing process the interaction of these substances determine the nature and extent of scarring. Avoid direct sunlight.

Caring for Breast Implant Incisions

After the surgery the surgeon will place waterproof plasters over your incision sites. Keep your incisions/suture line dry. If the plaster should get wet or start to peel off we recommend that you contact the PIAC office to make an appointment to have the wounds cleaned and redressed.

Depression

Many patients, experience periods of sadness or anxiety as they recover from cosmetic surgery. We begin to second guess ourselves and wonder if we ever should have had the surgery in the first place. We begin to think we are “ugly” and that the bruising and swelling will never go away. If you are feeling like that, you are not alone. In fact, you’re quite normal! Some people go beyond feeling blue after cosmetic surgery to being seriously depressed. Depression is a serious condition that should be treated seriously. Remember that if depression after surgery does happen to you, it is normal. You can even write down what to expect before your surgery, so you can note it afterwards when you are feeling blue. This can help you keep things in perspective and prepare your mind. It is also remind you that you knew this was going to happen. Keep reminding yourself that you are not crazy, that you’re just going through a low. Your depression should subside. If it does not, speak with your plastic surgeon or GP about it. You might want a referral for a therapist.

Depression can result from the after effects of your anesthesia (anesthesia seems to bring out our “sensitive sides” and makes many emotions feel stronger), medications, postsurgical traumatic stress syndrome, constipation from the medications (Who can be happy when that happens?), and a general sense that your life is in disarray.

Soreness and Pain After Breast Augmentation Surgery

If your breast implants are placed over your chest muscle, your recovery will most likely be shorter and less painful than if your implants are placed under the muscle. If you have combined your breast augmentation surgery with a breast lift, your breast lift recovery will add to your overall recuperation time. Do not take pain relievers with aspirin or ibuprofen until your surgeon says that it is OK to do so, since they can cause excessive bleeding.

Monitor Your Temperature

Take your temperature regularly during cosmetic plastic surgery recovery. An elevated temperature could mean you have an infection.

Antibiotics

Take all the antibiotics that your doctor prescribes for as many days as the prescription says. Not doing so can result in an antibiotic-resistant infection. Avoid alcohol consumption whilst taking the antibiotics as alcohol can diminish the effect the antibiotics have on the body.

Rest

The surgeon will recommend that you get plenty of rest for the first few days following the surgery. ‘

Swelling After Breast Implant Surgery

You may be swollen for three or four months after breast implant surgery. Drinking water, cutting back on salt and engaging in light exercise can help reduce this swelling (edema). Do not take any over-the-counter or herbal diuretics unless advised to do so by your surgeon. If you experience sudden swelling in the days after your surgery, call your surgeon.

Bruising

You will probably have some bruising after your breast implant surgery, but this will fade. Certain herbal remedies such as arnica or bromelain may help. Ask your surgeon what he recommends. If you still have some discolorations after several months, talk to your surgeon.

Sleeping With Your New Breasts

Sleeping is difficult right after your breast implant surgery. You have to sleep on your back with your upper back and head elevated to reduce swelling and pain. Be sure to have someone wake you up to take your meds, eat healthy meals, and drink your fluids.

Bathing

You will be able to shower but not swim until your incisions are closed and your sutures have been removed.

Tip: You may not be able to wash your hair for a week because you should not raise your hands over your head. Wash your hair the night before your surgery and braid it or place it in a ponytail.

Activities During Breast Augmentation Recovery

Walk around as soon as you are able while recovering from breast augmentation surgery. This will help prevent blood clots and can also help relieve swelling. Do not engage in strenuous activities, or exercise, for at least three to four weeks after your surgery. You should plan to avoid activities which require much raising of the arms above the level of the head for 10 days after surgery. With great care, you can drive about 7 days after surgery. Patients can usually return to work in a few days unless their occupation requires any particularly strenuous movements and lifting. In such cases, 3-4 weeks should be allowed.

• Walking can commence within days,
• Light jogging within 2 weeks,
• Gym and Pilates after 4 weeks and
• Upper body weights 6 weeks.

Are They All You Dreamed They Would Be?

In the days and weeks right after your surgery, your breasts will be quite firm and will sit high up on your chest. Don’t worry. They will soften up and will drop. Remember, the breast on your dominant side (your right side, if you are right-handed) may not drop as fast as the breast on your non-dominant side. In the weeks and months following your breast augmentation procedure, your breasts may appear “off” in shape or position. They also may feel itchy or sensitive. This is because your skin has been stretched over the implants, making your breasts very firm and high. The full results of your breast augmentation won’t be seen completely for many weeks, so be patient.

Loss of Sensitivity

You may lose some sensitivity in the nipple or the surrounding skin after breast augmentation surgery. This usually subsides within a few weeks. In rare cases, however, loss of sensation can be permanent. As sensation returns to your nipples and breasts, you may experience sharp pains, itchiness, heat, tingling and prickling. These temporary sensations occur because nerve function is returning.

Nipple Over sensitivity

Many women complain of very erect and sensitive nipples after breast implant surgery. You can protect your nipples by using a Band-Aid (especially the large round ones), large corn pads, or nursing pads. These pads will protect your overly sensitive nipples from the abrasiveness of your clothing and shield your erect nipples.

Breast Noises: Squeaks and Gurgles

Do not be alarmed if you hear gurgling, buzzing, or crackling noises coming from your augmented breasts.

These noises may result from fluid build-up or air bubbles within the implant pocket. They can also be heard when the implant has not settled. This will likely pass in a few weeks.

Risks

All procedures carry some risk. Having your procedure done in an accredited hospital minimises your risk during a procedure. The best way to categorize risks is to divide them into the risks of having a general anaesthetic, things that can go wrong during the procedure, things that might happen in the first few weeks and things that might happen further down the track. Generally speaking, patients undergoing elective surgery have very minimal risk, but it is a doctor’s duty to inform patients of all their material risks. When you are admitted to the hospital you will be provided with a consent package that details these risks, but the following is a quick list. The following is not meant to frighten you but to make you aware of the possibilities.

Because breast enlargement is a totally elective operation, you must be in good health before going ahead with the procedure. Eat healthily with plenty of fruits and vegetables, keep fit and have plenty of rest. Should you have some illness (eg the flu) before the date of the surgery, our surgeons may postpone the procedure until you have recovered fully.

General Risks

• Smoking: Smoking increases the risks of all potential complications. This includes chest infections and poor wound healing. You should stop smoking 3 weeks before and 3 weeks after the surgery.

Risks of having a general anaesthetic

• Areas of lung collapse and pneumonia
• Clots in the legs (DVT) which can move to the lungs (Pulmonary Embolism)
• Allergies
• Awareness
• Death (risk in about one in a million, you are at more risk driving to and from the hospital)

Things that can go wrong in the operation

• Bleeding
• Damage to surrounding structures

Things that might happen in the first few weeks

• Collections of fluid or blood within your abdomen
• Sensation changes to the breast or nipple
• Firmness
• Delayed healing
• Bruising and swelling
• Irritation from dressings
• Nipple Sensation
• Nerve injury

Things that might happen long term

• Poor scars
• Asymmetry
• Skin contour irregularities (stretch marks, rippling and wrinkles)
• Changes in size and shape with age & weight fluctuations
• Capsular constracture

During your consultation, your specialist plastic surgeon will explain all these risks, what they do to avoid and treat them, and the rates at which they occur.

After Surgery

First Days After Surgery

Rest, but not bed rest: While rest is important in the early stages of healing, equally important is that you are ambulatory, meaning that you are walking under your own strength. Spend 10 minutes every 2 hours engaged in light walking indoors as you recover.

Recline with your head and chest slightly elevated above your lower body.

Good nutrition: Fluids are critical following surgery. Stick to non-carbonated, non-alcoholic, caffeine-free, and green tea-free beverages including fruit juices and water, milk, and yogurt drinks. You must consume at least 8 ounces of fluid every 2 hours. Stick with soft, bland, nutritious food for the first 24 hours.

Take all medication, exactly as prescribed: Use oral pain medication and muscle relaxants as needed. Take the entire course of antibiotics.

Change your incision dressings: Your incisions will seep fluid and some blood for a short time after surgery. Keep dressings clean and dry.

Wear a support surgical garment around the clock.

Ensure that you wear this garment at all times.

Do not smoke. Smoking can greatly impair your safety prior to surgery and your ability to heal following surgery. You must not smoke.

Relax. Do not engage in any stressful activities. Do not lift anything heavier than 5Kg. During this time you will progress with each day that passes. Ease into your daily activities. Do not smoke. While incisions may have sealed, smoking deprives your body of necessary oxygen that can result in poorly healed, wide, raised scars. Continue to wear a proper support bra. You may sleep flat. However do not sleep on your stomach. If you are a side sleeper, a soft pillow under your mid-back and shoulders may offer more comfort and support than a single pillow under your head. Practice good sun protection. Do not expose your breasts to direct sunlight. If you are outdoors, apply at least an SPF 30 to the chest area at least 30 minutes prior to sun exposure. Your chest region and breast skin are highly susceptible to sunburn or the formation of irregular, darkened pigmentation. You may start to use scar treatments after sutures are removed.

Following Surgery

Healing will progress and your breasts will settle into a more final shape and position. You may ease into your regular fitness routine. However realise that your upper body may require some time to return to previous strength. Listen to your body and do not commence until you are ready

Continue your breast massage as instructed by your surgeon.

Continue to use scar treatments

Discomfort or tightness and tingling will resolve. Any lingering nipple sensitivity or lack of sensation should begin to greatly improve.

No need to resume smoking. You have now gone 4-8 weeks (4 weeks prior to surgery and 4 weeks following) without a cigarette. For your long-term health, there is no need to resume smoking.

Continue healthy nutrition, fitness and sun protection. Your scars will continue to refine. If they become raised, red or thickened, or appear to widen, contact your Doctor. Early intervention is important to achieving well-healed scars. Scars are generally refined to fine incision lines one year after surgery.

If your breasts develop an unusually hard feeling, or a highly rounded “squeezed” appearance, call us as soon as possible. You may be developing capsular contracture. Early treatment is the best solution.

Capsular Contracture

All surgeries have risks, and breast augmentation is no exception. Capsular contracture occurs when scar tissue forms around the implant, resulting in painful breast stiffness and possible leakage of the fluid inside the implant. Women often fear this common complication because it is difficult to predict when it will occur and who will develop it. Most women start having symptoms around three months after their breast implant surgery, but you can develop capsular contracture at any time, and it can recur after it is treated. Capsular contracture occurs in less than 5 percent of women, and while there is no way of telling who is going to develop it, several factors may increase your risk. They include:

• Autoimmune disorders
• Smoking
• Radiation therapy
• Severe trauma to the breast
• Hematoma (a break in blood vessel, causing localized bruising or blood clot)
• Seroma (a collection of fluid under the skin)
• Bacterial infections
• Silicone molecules leaching into the pocket around the implant

Detecting Capsular Contracture

Warning signs of capsular contracture include deformed, misshapen, and painful breasts, or breasts that are firmer than when they were first implanted. There are four levels of capsular contracture. They include:

Grade I: the breast is soft and looks natural

Grade II: the breast is slightly firm, but looks normal

Grade III: the breast is firm and looks abnormal

Grade IV: the breast is hard, painful, and looks abnormal

Mammograms and Your Breast Implants

The recommended screening guidelines for women who have had breast augmentation with breast implants solely for cosmetic reasons are the same as those for women who do not have breast implants. Cosmetic breast augmentation with implants may make screening for breast cancer a bit more challenging, but this is not an excuse to avoid regular screening. A mammogram (breast X-ray) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can save your life, so follow your doctor’s advice regarding breast cancer detection.

Breast Feeding

Implants do not interfere with breast-feeding, but many women have had concerns about passing silicone gel into breast milk if their implants were to rupture. These fears have been allayed by science. In the early 1990s, there were reports of silicone gel leaking from implants into the body, and some women claimed that their autoimmune and connective tissue disorders were related to their implants. As a result, silicone implants were removed from the market in 1992. At the same time, fear arose that breast-feeding with silicone implants could endanger the infant. Studies have since shown that silicone molecules are too large to pass into the milk ducts and breast gland tissue. In addition, the FDA conducted numerous studies which served to exonerate silicone gel implants as a cause of disease. As a result, they returned to market in 2006. That said, there are no guarantees that you will be able to breast-feed, regardless of whether you undergo breast augmentation. Women who have never had any kind of breast surgery may experience difficulty breast-feeding. If you do opt to have breast surgery, incision and implant placement may make a difference in terms of your ability to breast-feed. For example, in rare cases a periareolar incision (around the edge of the nipple) may interrupt or disturb the milk ducts. Placing implants below the pectoral (chest) muscle is least likely to disturb the milk duct

Discuss your plans to breast-feed with your surgeon. Your surgeon will be able to work with you to achieve the best possible aesthetic results without compromising your plans to breast-feed

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I get sick and can’t keep my medicine down?

Taking your medication with food and water can help you keep it down during breast augmentation recovery.

If you simply cannot keep your medications down, tell your surgeon. You may need to have your prescription changed.

I am a very active person. How long should I wait after breast augmentation until I resume exercising?

Talk to your surgeon about when you can resume exercising after breast augmentation. Individual instructions may vary, but the usual advice is to wait at least two weeks. Although you may feel fine, you will not be completely healed at this stage. Doing too much too soon can set back your healing. You should not lift heavy objects, bend over, or take part in vigorous activities for at least three weeks after breast augmentation.

How long before my breast implants drop?

For most women, breast implants rest a bit high for a short period after surgery, and then they drop into a more normal position. This usually takes a few weeks. The time it takes your breast implants to drop depends upon several factors, including the implant size, what size you were before your breast augmentation surgery, the implant surface type, implant placement, your muscle tone and whether you massage your breasts. If your implants are placed underneath the chest muscle, they will drop slower than if they are placed over the muscle. If you had very small breasts before, and get moderate to large implants, they will take longer to drop because of the tightness of your skin. Sometimes, one side will drop before the other side.

Some surgeons advise patients to push their breast implants down or massage them soon after surgery to encourage them to drop. If you are having problems, your surgeon may have you wear a wide elastic band around the top of your chest to help push you implants down. If your implants still haven’t dropped within six to nine months, breast augmentation revision surgery may be necessary. Talk to your surgeon.

Why do my breasts appear red and feel sunburned?

Your skin has been stretched to accommodate the breast implants. The sunburned feeling and red color are caused by this stretching. This is a normal part of the healing process. Ask your surgeon what he or she recommends for your skin during your breast implant recovery.

Why are my breasts shiny?

The shininess is a result of your skin being stretched. As your skin begins to relax, the shininess will go away.

How long after breast augmentation will my breasts soften up?

This depends on your muscle tone and the implant placement. Your breasts will be firm for a while because of the post-surgery swelling. Textured implants may feel firmer than smooth ones.

 Am I too firm?

Firmness is relative. Some individuals think they are too firm when they are only slightly firmer than before, while others crave firmness and fullness around the top side of their breasts. There is no one-size-fits-all answer.

How soon can I go back to work after Surgery?

This depends on your job, your incision type, your implant placement, and how fast you heal. If you have a sedentary job, you can generally go back sooner than if your job is physically demanding. If you have had a lift, your breast lift recovery will make your overall recuperation more involved.

When can I tan my new breasts?

Tanning is not good for any part of your body, including your new breasts. Tanned skin is damaged skin. If you want to tan anyway, you are going to have to wait at least until your skin is no longer red and shiny. Tanning too early after your breast augmentation surgery can increase your risk of hyper pigmentation, a condition in which patches of skin become darker than the surrounding skin. Keep your incisions out of direct sunlight for six months to a year after surgery. Scars take about one year to mature, so cover them! The skin on your breasts will also stretch out and heal before your scars, so if you start tanning, cover your scars with some kind of tape, not just sunblock.

My new breasts are squeaking and gurgling! Is this permanent? When will it stop?

Do not panic if you hear gurgling, squeaking or crackling noises coming from your new breasts. These noises can result from a fluid build-up or air bubbles within the implant pocket, or from the implant settling in. Give it a few weeks. Although the noises might be disturbing, this is normal after breast augmentation.

My breasts look like cones or torpedoes?

Your breasts may be odd looking because your skin has been stretched over them. Don’t worry, this is likely temporary. If your breasts look like torpedoes, your implants probably haven’t “dropped” yet. The lower half of each breast is probably still tight, forcing the breasts into a high, hard-cone shape. In the weeks immediately after your breast implant surgery, you may think your breasts are too big, too small, too round, not round enough, too square, too high, too low, too ugly, too this, and too that. This will pass in time. If your implants were placed under the chest muscles, it may take some time for the muscles to relax. If you are right-handed, your right breast may not drop as fast as your left one.

My breasts are too big! I hate them!

Take a deep breath. In the weeks after surgery, your breasts will be swollen and you will not be used to them yet. They may also be relatively high up on your chest. Wait until the swelling goes down before you decide that they are too big and/or that you want revision breast augmentation surgery. If you still think they are too big after a year.

When can I start jogging again?

You need to be fully healed before you can start jogging again. Activities like jogging, jumping rope, basketball and horseback riding subject your breasts to a lot of up-and-down movements. Jumping without good support for your breasts can stretch your skin, ligaments, and connective tissue, causing sagging. Talk to your surgeon before you take part in any strenuous activity. And when you do start up again, wear a good support bra or your compression bra.

When can I begin having sex again?

Sex is still exercise. You should not participate in any activities that can significantly raise your heart rate or cause excessive movement in your breasts for a week or two after your breast augmentation. The antibiotics that you are taking to prevent infection may interfere with your birth control pills, so use another form of protection while you are on antibiotics if you do not want to become pregnant.

How soon after surgery can I fly?

You will need to stay in Phuket near your surgeon for the first week of your breast implant recovery in case of complications. You will also need to be nearby for your follow-up appointments.

Will I have to sleep on my back or side forever?

No. Just like the swelling, pain and redness, this is only temporary. You should sleep on your back with your head elevated for the first five to 10 days after surgery to reduce your discomfort and swelling. You can sleep on your side or stomach after 10 days.

My breasts are numb. Will I ever have sensation again?

In almost all cases, the sensation in the skin does return after breast augmentation. The nerves in the skin have pressure on them from the swelling and from the skin being so tightly stretched over the implant. This pressure may temporarily numb the area. What’s more, nerves around your incisions may be cut, and this can take longer to heal. As the breast envelope relaxes and your swelling subsides, you will notice sensation returning gradually. This may take up to a year.

When can I wear an underwired bra?

After the removal of the bandages you will be fitted with either a support bra or boob tube style garment (depending on the surgeons recommendations). Do not wear underwire, ‘push-up’ bras or tight clothing for at least 1 month after the surgery (this may vary as per your surgeons recommendations). The push up bras and tight clothing may cause the implants to be shifted into abnormal positions.

These instructions are not meant to be comprehensive or all-inclusive, any additional instructions will be given to you by your Surgeon as needed.

Original Article – Phuket International Aesthetic Center

Cosmetic Surgery for Men

Posted on | March 30, 2012 | No Comments

Plastic surgery for men- tap into the fountain of youth

In decades past, women have turned to cosmetic surgery as a way to retain a youthful appearance and are the largest demographic of people having procedures such as cosmetic fillers to smooth out wrinkles and liposuction to get rid of extra weight that sits on the body as we age. But cosmetic surgeons have been experiencing a rise in the number of men, who look at plastic surgery as a way to tap into the fountain of youth.

Men are finding that cosmetic surgery can give them an edge in their professional and professional lives in our youth oriented culture.  Wrinkles, the “turkey neck” effect and excess weight can make a man look older and more tired than they actually feel, so rejuvenating procedure can give them an edge in their professional lives.

Cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Carlos Wolfe told the Miami Herald that men make up 20 percent of his practice with tummy tucks and liposuction being the most common procedures for men. Wolf said, “They are trying to get in shape, working out, but can’t get rid of that last little bit of fat.” As people get older it is harder to eliminate fat.

Wolf also said one of factors motivating older men’s desire to have plastic surgery is attracting younger women. No matter what a man’s motivation is, liposuction and other cosmetic surgeries can give their self-confidence a boost and help them thrive in their personal and professional lives.

via Men tap into the fountain of youth through plastic surgery.

Cosmetic surgery facts from figures

Posted on | March 27, 2012 | No Comments

Cosmetic Surgery in 2009

The figures in the diagram below are from 2009 so a little outdate,  but the percentages are roughly the same.

The cosmetic surgery industry has grown almost 20 % since 2009 – 2011, a staggering amount!  Still about 10 % of all cosmetic procedures are carried out by men with breast augmentation surgery being the most populular plastic surgery for women.

cosmetic surgery figures

Image provided by Infopic.com