I Quit Saving Lives To Give Women Botox, And I Don’t Regret It
Vanity gets a bad rap – it’s important to like the way you look, and what I do is an art form.
Body Dysmorphia And The Dark Side of Cosmetic Surgery
Can you trust what you see in the mirror?
I Put Needles And Lasers In My Face All In The Name Of Beauty
Is micro-needling worth all the pain?
7 Things You Always Wanted To Know About Getting Lip Fillers
The facts on getting a perfectly plump pout.
The Dark Reality Of Living With Body Dysmorphia
“I thought I’d always be fat, ugly, and useless.”
Say Hello To Vontouring: It’s Contouring. For Your Vagina.
Because svelte vaj-jay-jays are in. Apparently.
Porn Star Vaginas: The Hidden Dangers Of Surgery
Are you under pressure from a loved one to get a porn star vagina? Do you loathe your labia and consider it to be akin to a “badly-packed kebab”? This story is for you ladies – think twice before you undergo vaginal surgery, says a leading sexpert.
RELATED: 5 Fast Facts About Your Lady Parts
The cosmetic surgery industry does a roaring trade in vaginal surgery, such as labiaplasty, but what they won’t tell you is that it’s dangerously likely to impair your sexual pleasure. So says Sydney sexologist, Dr Michelle Mars (pictured), who specialises in the sociology of sex gender and sexual well-being.
And while Dr Mars is an advocate of new, cutting-edge and non-invasive laser technology called “vaginal rejuvenation” or the “Mona Lisa Touch” treatment, which can restore vaginal tissue and even cure vaginal atrophy, she ain’t no fan of vaginal surgery, which is purely cosmetic.
For me, the concept of undergoing surgery on your perfectly lovely, normal and healthy lady bits due to societal or relationship pressure to get a porn star vagina is both ridiculous and abhorrent. Are women’s bodies so heavily scrutinised, critiqued and ridiculed that even our vaginas all have to look the same?
Beauty comes in all shapes and sizes, as do vaginas – there is no one perfect vag. And yet so many women, convinced their labias are too unsightly, big or just not Anglo porn-star enough, flock to get vaginal surgery.
Even this description of labiaplasty surgery makes me feel a bit sick in the guts: “Labiaplasty surgery is designed to reduce the size, and change the shape of the inner lips, the labia minora.” Who the hell is critiquing their own, or someone else’s inner lips? I’d wager if a man (or woman) doesn’t like the shape of your vag, it’s time to show them the door!
Dr Mars believes the porn industry is to blame for people’s screwed and unrealistic views on what constitutes the “perfect” looking vagina.
“Whether we like it or not, the vaginas we see most often are porn star vaginas: smooth, symmetrical, petite and tidy,” Dr Mars says. “There is about as much reality in porn as there is in your average action movie. Our ideas of what a vagina looks like are constructed through images of vaginas that in many cases have been surgically altered.
“This ideal perpetuates surgery demand and many people report that they feel better about their vaginas as a result. However, what you see in the chat rooms, but not in the advertising from the surgeons, is that vaginal surgery, like any surgery, often creates nerve damage. Your vagina may look ‘better’, but your sexual function may be inhibited.”
So, how can women gain a more realistic view of their vaginas and learn to love their own unique, natural beauty? Dr Mars says it’s about separating fact from fiction. Here, she dispels two popular vaginal myths.
Myth 1: All vaginas should be perfectly symmetrical and there’s something wrong with mine if it’s not.
Fact: Vaginas vary greatly in appearance, colour, shape and size, just as women’s bodies do; there is no one “perfect” vagina. All vaginas are created equal. What’s more, it’s perfectly normal to have one labia grow longer than the other.
Myth 2: If my vagina doesn’t perfectly resemble that of a blonde porn star, there’s something wrong with me and I clearly need surgery.
Fact: There is nothing wrong with you. Do your research – ask sexperts about vaginas and look at pictures of different ethnicities’ pink bits before you rush off to get surgery and do yourself some nerve damage.
Dr Mars says above all, be kind to yourself and your vagina – learn to love and appreciate what you’ve got. Women’s bodies are amazing and powerful – we can birth humans, after all.
“In 2007, in preparation for a paper I was doing at the World Sexological Conference on designer vaginas, I tried to find some everyday vaginas,” she says. “I ended up with four photos from a medical text book that I then had to take to a graphic designer so she could reverse them and change the colour and background to give the appearance of a bit of variety.
“At the conference a women talked to me about her experience of one labia growing longer than the other at puberty and how after much begging, her mother had agreed to surgery. She wished she had known it was normal.
“I have had clients come to see me about this too. One gorgeous, young woman came to see me about her errant labia. When I said: ‘Oh you mean the badly packed-kebab – lots of labia are like that – she burst out laughing and left a much happier woman.”
Ladies – please love your vaginas. That is all.
Images via gizmodo.com, cosmopolitan.com
10 Things To Consider Before Having A Breast Augmentation
As the most popular cosmetic surgery procedure on the planet, more than 12,000 breast augmentations take place in Australia each year. With more women choosing to go under the knife, The Cosmetic Institute has put together a check list of 10 things to consider before signing on the dotted line to have surgery.
“Breast augmentations make up more than 90 percent of the surgeries we perform,” says Dr Huy Tang, cosmetic surgeon at The Cosmetic Institute, which performs some 5,000 breast augmentation procedures each year. “While it’s a fairly straight-forward procedure, any time a patient is considering surgery, we want to make sure they’re informed, educated and armed with the right questions to ask,” he said.
Here, Dr Tang outlines the 10 most important things to consider before going under the knife.
1. Be healthy
“Prior to your procedure it is critical that you are in excellent health,” says Dr Tang. “In particular, if you’re a smoker, it’s a very good idea to kick the habit at least eight weeks prior to your surgery.” According to Dr Tang, smokers have a much higher risk of serious complications during and after surgery, including infections and impaired wound healing.
2. Get educated
“It seems obvious, but make sure you’re well informed,” says Dr Tang, who recommends visiting forums, talking to people who have had the procedure and looking through the social media pages of the clinics you are interested in going with. “It is a very good idea to do this research before you meet your prospective surgeon so you can ensure all your questions can be addressed in your initial consultation,” he says.
3. Shop around
“Although it can be tempting to go with the first surgeon you find and book your procedure in straight away, don’t settle with the first clinic you visit,” says Dr Tang. “Ensure you have a consultation with at least two or three other clinics to gain some perspective on what’s out there and where you feel the most comfortable. In addition to getting to know the surgeon, you can familiarise yourself with the type of work they do by looking at before and after pictures.”
4. Get clear about costs
To avoid any surprises, make sure you are aware of the costs associated with your surgery up front. “Many clinics have hidden costs such as a facility hire fees, post op follow up fees and anaesthetist fees, so make sure all costs are laid out on the table before you decide,” Dr Tang advises.
5. Stay local
“I can’t stress strongly enough that patients need to think carefully before being lured overseas by the promise of cut-price surgery, as doing so exposes you to a number of unnecessary risks,” warns Dr Tang. In addition to being away from the comforts of home and the support of family and friends while recovering from surgery, Dr Tang points out that you’re likely to be travelling to a very hot, humid climate where the risk of infection can be increased and the standard of sanitation may not be as high. “You’ll also have no access to your surgeon once you return home, which may be crucial should complications occur weeks or even months after your surgery. We are lucky that Australia has one of the best medical systems in the world, so you couldn’t be in safer hands,” he says.
6. Ask for accreditation
“One of the very basic things you need to do is make sure both the clinic and the surgeon are accredited,” stresses Dr Tang, who warns that while the surgeon you’re talking to might be accredited, the facility may not be.
7. Ask about anaesthetic
“Enquire about who will be administering the anaesthetic and ask whether you will have a specialist anaesthetist on site dedicated to your care for the full duration of surgery,” says Dr Tang. “Make sure your surgeon discusses the type of anaesthetic that will be used and that you are well informed about the different types of anaesthetic options available.”
8. Get the low down on the implants
In terms of implant options, Dr Tang suggests you discuss everything from the type of implants your surgeon is planning to use (silicone gel or saline), to the size of implants they recommend based on your proportions, and their shape – which can be round or tear drop. “You’ll also want to ask about the texture of your implants’ surface – rough or smooth, whether your implants will be placed under or in front of the muscle, and the location of your incisions,” he says.
9. Be aware of the aftercare
“What happens after surgery is just as important as what happens during surgery,” says Dr Tang. “Following your surgery it is vital that you attend the recommended post op consultations with your surgeon and follow the aftercare directions they provide you with to the letter,” he says. He also suggests that you have a designated post op care partner to help look after you the days and even weeks following the procedure. “It is highly recommended that mothers in particular have assistance with general day to day activities as their upper body will be restricted and they won’t be able to do things like pick up their children, take a pram out of the car, or reach for anything above shoulder height.”
10. Keep your expectations in check
“Although breast augmentation is a relatively simple procedure, many people are unaware of the lifestyle adjustments that will need to be made following surgery and come in with unrealistic expectations about their recovery,” says Dr Tang. He advises that most patients will need to take a week or so off work and won’t be able to drive for a week either. “It’s also important to keep in mind that your new breasts will change dramatically in the first six to 12 weeks and will continue to settle over the 12 to 24 months following, so don’t expect immediate perfection,” he says.
In terms of scarring, Dr Tang says that patients are usually left with a thin line across the base of the breast, which fades over the following 12 months. And finally, because you’re breasts will still be healing, Dr Tang says that underwire bras are off limits for about six weeks.
What Is Vaginal Rejuvenation?
If you’ve ever watched the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, you’ll already know what I’m talking about when I say the words “vaginal rejuvenation.” But, if you’re not prone to binge watching seasons of trashy, reality television (good on you!), you might be curious to learn and surprised to find out just how much it is happening in the world today.
RELATED: Is Shapewear Worth The Health Risks And Pain
Famously or infamously, Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star and former model Brandi Glanville has spoken openly about undergoing vaginal rejuvenation surgery, making her “kitty 17 again.” How about that for a movie plot?
More women, not just in Hollywood, are starting to jump on the trend and are opting to get the surgery which is fondly known as a facelift for your lady parts. Considering facelifts are quite painful, it’s hard to imagine getting surgery on your vag – but being self-conscious after ageing, having babies, wanting a tight hoo-hoo, wanting a better sex life and a combination of all of the above are among the top reasons for the procedure.
It’s a personal decision which should not have any judgement around it, just like any other cosmetic procedure, but let’s take a look at what really goes into getting a vaginal rejuvenation. Vaginal rejuvenation can involve labiaplasty and/or vaginoplasty. Labiaplasty is used to change the shape or size of the labia majora or labia minora, usually making them smaller or more symmetrical. Vaginoplasty aims to tighten the actual vagina. Some surgeons use lasers, others use traditional scalpel methods and some use a combination of both.
Vaginoplasty can involve reconstruction or tightening of the vaginal wall and/or pelvic floor muscles and a decrease in the diameter of the vagina. There may also be a removal of lining from the vaginal vault. There is no one specific procedure as a consultation is needed to determine the individual’s needs.
There are risks of undergoing any surgery and vaginal rejuvenation is no different. Scarring, infection and wound separation can happen, but if the area is cared for properly, it should be unlikely. It takes around 6 weeks to heal and until you will be able to resume exercise and sexual activity.
There are vaginal rejuvenation clinics in most major cities now as the cosmetic procedure becomes more popular. Many women feel an empowerment from the procedure and are happier to regain their vaginal youth. The procedure can cost anywhere from $2000 to $12, 000 depending on what you want and need to get done.
Image via NY Daily News
Liposuction – Would You Have The Procedure?
Have you been exercising and dieting, trying to lose that extra fat to no avail? If so and you are concerned about your body image, liposuction could be the way forward. But what does it involve and is it safe? Read on to find out.
What is liposuction?
Liposuction is a cosmetic surgery that removes pockets of fat from underneath the skin to slim down and reshape a part of your body, most commonly performed on the thighs, buttocks, abdomen, arms and neck. The process improves body contours and is most commonly performed because of body image concerns although it does not improve the appearance of cellulite or saggy skin, nor does it improve your health or reduce the risk of heart disease.
Who will benefit from liposuction?
Liposuction is normally intended for people who are finding it difficult to shift fat from particular parts of their body, after having tried diets and exercise – it is not a treatment for weight loss. Areas of fat deposits are sometimes due to genetics so the easiest way to reshape the problem area is by having liposuction.
The ideal candidate needs to be physically healthy, well enough to heal and resist infection, and be close to their ideal weight. They also need to be psychologically stable and have realistic expectations regarding the outcome of the procedure. Young patients with good skin tone normally achieve the best results because their skin is more elastic than older patients, meaning it will retract easier once the fat has been removed.
What is the surgical process?
Liposuction can be performed under a general or local anaesthetic, depending on the amount of fat to be removed, normally in a day surgery. Although there are slightly different ways of performing liposuction one of the most common procedures is tumescent liposuction. This is when the areas of fat are injected with an anaesthetic liquid, causing the fat cells to swell and become firm. The anaesthetic also helps to constrict blood vessels and limit blood loss. A small cut is then made in the skin before a cannula is inserted into the incision and pushed up into the fat layer. Using a back and forth motion the cannula breaks up the fat cells before they are suctioned out.
What happens after liposuction?
After the procedure you can expect some bruising, swelling, minor pain and possible numbness but you will be encouraged to get up and walk around and resume light activities within a few days. You’ll need to wear a compression garment for 4-6 weeks after the procedure which can be removed for showering and avoid strenuous activities for at least month afterwards. It can take several months for the swelling to subside, so be patient and if the skin does not retract you may need another operation to remove the excess skin.
Are there any complications?
As with any operation there are complications that can arise. They range from delayed healing to infection, irregular skin surface to the formation of blood clots or persistent swelling to cardiac complications. Your GP or surgeon will thoroughly discuss these complications with you before you agree to the procedure.
The procedure can be permanent, provided you eat a healthy diet, get regular exercise and avoid any substantial weight gain after the surgery. So would you do it?
Image via laserliposuctionphoenix.com
Boob Jobs: Do We Have Our Facts Straight?
With the demand for cosmetic surgery in Australia at an all-time high and growing at a rate of 30 per cent year-on-year, it is estimated that more than 12,000 breast augmentations take place nationwide each year. Yet according to The Cosmetic Institute, Australia’s largest provider of cosmetic surgery, a number of misconceptions about the procedure still exist.
“Breast implants are by far our most commonly requested procedure,” says David Segal, co-founder and Managing Director of The Cosmetic Institute and author of the book Skin – The Essential Australian Guide. ”Over the past 18 months, we have performed more than 3,000 breast augmentations and they make up more than 90 per cent of the surgeries we perform, yet we find that there is still a lot of mixed information out there,” he said.
Here, David outlines and corrects the 10 most common myths and misconceptions that exist around breast implants and breast augmentation:
1. Breast implants are only for women who want big boobs
While the media will often showcase celebrities like Pamela Anderson and Brynne Edelstein as examples of breast augmentation, in the “real world” many clients just want to go from an A to a B or C cup. “Most of the patients we see are women who simply want to fill out their clothing and feel more confident and feminine. Others wish to “replenish” what breast feeding has taken away or correct asymmetry, where one breast is smaller than the other,” says David. “The size of the implant is determined in consultation with the patient, taking into account their height, weight and frame, but for the most part, we don’t see women who are looking to go really big,” he said.
2. Breast implants will cause you to lose all feeling in your breasts
While the impact implants can have on sensation and sensitivity in the breast tissue will always vary from patient to patient. “The vast majority of patients experience no permanent sensory changes after undergoing a breast augmentation,” David said.
3. You can’t breastfeed after breast implants
Many people still believe that having breast augmentation can prevent a woman from breast feeding, however this is usually not the case. “Providing they are inserted correctly, there is no medical evidence to suggest that implants interfere with breastfeeding,” says David. “At The Cosmetic Institute we insert the implant under the muscle, meaning the implant does not affect the milk ducts,” David says.
4. Breast augmentation is painful surgery that requires a lot of time off work
Everybody has their unique pain tolerance level and will require differing amounts of post-operative pain relief, and while the length of time it takes to recover from surgery differs from person to person, most patients are able to return to work within five to seven days following surgery, says David. “Most of our patients are pleasantly surprised by the simplicity of the procedure and the time it takes to recover. The procedure itself takes just 45 minutes on average and does not require an overnight hospital stay. Patients are able to recuperate at home once discharged from recovery,” he says.
5. Heading overseas to places like Thailand for surgery is a cost-effective way to have your surgery whilst enjoying a holiday at the same time
According to David, there is a lot of romanticism surrounding cosmetic surgery holidays, when in reality, it can be near impossible to enjoy a tropical holiday while recovering from something like a breast augmentation. “In addition to not being able to swim, patients may be in pain and must keep movement to a minimum. Additionally, people are often travelling to very hot, humid climates, where the risk of infection is high, and most importantly, should something go wrong, a patient has no access to their surgeon once they have returned home,” David warns.
And, in terms of costs savings, once flights, accommodation, travel insurance and other expenses have been factored in, the costs can quickly escalate, resulting in no savings at all in the end.
6. Silicone implants are not safe
As one of the most thoroughly studied medical devices in the world, decades of research have gone into the safety and effectiveness of silicone implants. “Silicone is actually the most biocompatible material known to man and silicone-filled implants are supported by extensive pre-clinical testing, US clinical studies and European rupture prevalence data,” David says.
7. Breast implants can rupture and harm you
“These days, the chances of an implant rupturing are extremely low,” says David. “However, in the rare case that an implant did rupture, most likely due to some form of severe trauma, there would be no harm to the patient in terms of toxicity,” David said. As implants are made of a gel substance that remains within a solid membrane and does not “leak” into the body, the implant would merely be removed and replaced.
8. Breast implants make it hard to detect breast cancer
“While radiologists are well practised in administering breast screens to women with implants, it is believed that it’s actually easier to detect changes in your breasts if you have implants as they tend to push the natural breast tissue closer to the surface, making a lump easier to feel,” David says. Regardless, it’s recommended that all women (with or without implants) monitor their breasts and have a regular examination by a doctor.
9. Implants make breasts sag earlier
Gravity, weight and the breakdown of collagen and elastin tissue within the skin are all factors that affect the likelihood for breast to sag, regardless of whether the woman has an implant, says David. “Natural breasts are just as likely to sag as breasts with implants are, which is why it is important for all women to wear a good quality, supportive and well-fitted bra,” he says.
10. Breast implants need to be changed every 10 years
According to David, implants today don’t have a set lifetime. “Unless your breasts change shape or there’s impairment to the implant, then there’s no reason to replace them, regardless of how long they’ve been in your breast.”
The Cosmetic Institute operates two clinics, in Sydney’s Parramatta and Bondi Junction, and offers exceptional surgical outcomes, patient care and support at a fair price.
6 Myths About Cosmetic Surgery Procedures Busted
There are many oversimplified ideas and misconceptions circulating the world of cosmetic surgery. Some people believe the glamorous procedures are only for the rich and famous, whilst others think they’ll escape with absolutely no scars to show for an invasive procedure.
As cosmetic surgery becomes an even bigger part of our culture, from reality TV shows to magazine covers, the line between myth and reality starts to blur. There are so many delusions that for some people, the thought of visiting a clinic can be daunting. We bust a few common myths surrounding cosmetic surgery procedures and how to make it work for you.
1. Cosmetic procedures and plastic Surgery are the same thing – FALSE
Plastic surgery, also known as reconstructive surgery, restores the normal. It helps to reconstruct the body part and repair what has been damaged, for example people who’ve been in accidents or burns victims. Doctors that list themselves as a plastic surgeon need to be registered and operate under a strict code of ethics in accredited surgical facilities.
Cosmetic surgery on the other hand is elective and focuses on the aesthetics of beauty. Surgeons in this expertise are dedicated to the art of improving a patient’s appearance through enhancement procedures.
2. Cosmetic surgery is all about beauty and vanity – FALSE
The majority of patients that undergo cosmetic surgery feel how they look plays a considerable role in their overall health and wellbeing. But it’s not all in vain, although breast augmentations, liposuction, Botox and facelifts do get all the media. We all want to look our best, and the conflict between a person’s self-worth and desire to be beautiful can be a battle.
When a patient chooses to have surgery to enhance their appearance, it’s often to improve areas which are not amendable to diet, weight loss and nonsurgical procedures. While some are after a celebrity look alike, others desire a development to their appearance that isn’t dramatic and is less noticeable. Generally, patients who undergo cosmetic surgery aren’t looking to be better than everyone else; they are just looking to feel better about themselves.
3. Cosmetic surgery leaves you with no scars – FALSE
When the skin is cut, a scar will result and so it is to be expected with some cosmetic procedures. How visible this scar is will be determined by how the incision is closed, how it’s cared for after the procedure, where the incision is made and the surgical experience of the doctor.
Qualified cosmetic surgeons are good at making scars look better, refined and smaller. Depending on the type of procedure you’re after and how invasive it is can also help to determine the level of scaring expected. For example, breast augmentation scars can be hidden under the armpit or in the crease below the breast and facelift scars are usually hidden along the hairline or within the contours of your ears. Your cosmetic surgeon will also give recommendations, advice and treatments to ensure any scaring made is minimally noticeable.
4. Cosmetic surgery is mostly for women – FALSE
Although cosmetic surgery is more popular amongst women, studies show there has been an increase of 273% between 1997 and 2013 in the number of male patients. Just like women, men can also feel the need for more youthful and rejuvenated appearance. Less invasive procedures like dermal fillers, Botox and liposuction are becoming prevalent throughout the male population with relatively low costs and downtime.
Bigger procedures like breast reduction are common for men facing the man-boob battle or implants for those who desire a firmer chest and mimic a well-built muscle. A whopping 83% of men believe that their personal appearance plays an important role in their professional success, thus cosmetic surgery procedures can provide a competitive edge and boost self-confidence.
5. Breast implants need to be changed every 10 years – FALSE
A common misconception around breast implants is that they will need to be replaced or lifted after 10 years. Breast implants, however, are designed to last longer than you think and there is no reason to have them replaced unless there is a problem. Problems that can occur which would require the implant to be removed or replaced can include a leaky or ruptured implant. When this happens, reparative surgery is not always medically urgent or necessary, but usually desired for obvious cosmetic reasons. The different between how noticeable the leak is variers between whether you choose saline or silicone implants. On average, majority of implants last without complications and come with implant warranties the manufactures put in place.
6. All surgeons will produce the same results – FALSE
A surgeon’s qualifications and training will contribute immeasurably to the success of any procedure but believing they all produce the same results is a terrible myth. Not all chefs cook the same way, not all doctors can do the same procedure and not all professional sportsmen play the same. Experience is vital when it comes to choosing the right cosmetic surgeon for your procedure, and finding one who has mastered a specific speciality. To ensure you get the results you’re after consider how many times the surgeon has performed the procedure you want and pay attention to the finer details in previous work they have done.
Whilst some people opt for less qualified surgeons because of the cost factor, it pays to do thorough research and find someone more qualified. Do you really just want anyone operating on your face and body? The right cosmetic surgeon will take their time to discuss your procedure, reasons behind it and realistic results to be expected.
This article is written Jayde Ferguson who writes for Robert Goldman, an experienced cosmetic surgeon in Perth, Western Australia specialising in breast augmentation.
The Growing Trend Of Medical Tourism
Cosmetic getaways have been embraced by Aussies deciding to take the post-holiday glow to a new level. While the trend, also referred to as “medical tourism”, can be an attractive option for those looking for a cheaper, more discreet option in cosmetic treatments, it’s important to understand the risks involved.
As with any medical treatment, in Australia or abroad, you should consider the history and reputation of the medical facility or clinic, the cosmetic physicians involved, the products and methods used and finally, the option for follow-up care.
Just like you wouldn’t compromise quality when it comes to medical treatment for an illness, you shouldn’t have to compromise on cosmetic treatments to your face or body. However, a recent survey found some Australian women undergoing cosmetic procedures such as anti-wrinkle treatments may be taking the procedure too lightly.
According to the survey, while 86 per cent of anti-wrinkle injection users claimed they are careful about what is injected into their face, 71 per cent did not know the name or brand of their last anti-wrinkle injection treatment.
This is concerning considering anti-wrinkle injections are now officially Australia’s most popular non-surgical cosmetic procedure, with approximately 33,000 injections administered each year.
Dr Joseph Ajaka, from the Cosmos Clinic in Sydney, says, “The most important thing a patient can do is come in prepared and ask the right questions before, during and after their treatment.”
“Patients who are the most satisfied with their treatment are the ones who are informed, are asking the right questions and ensuring the anti-wrinkle injection they’ve requested is indeed what they are receiving” said Dr Ajaka.
A new resource called Informed Beauty has been developed to help patients prepare for their appointments and start their consultation feeling confident. So, if you’re considering cosmetic treatments, visit the Informed Beauty website, download the Top 5 Questions Checklist, and ask your cosmetic physician about the Informed Beauty campaign.
Plastic Surgery Guide: Breast Reduction
While it may seem like the majority of women seeking cosmetic surgery on their breasts want to go bigger, there are others who go under the knife in order to reduce the size of their bustlines. Breast reduction surgery is growing in popularity, becoming the sixth most performed cosmetic surgery procedure in Australia in recent years.
What is reduction mammoplasty?
Reduction mammoplasty is the procedure for reducing the size of large breasts. The typical patient for this surgery suffers from chronic pain in her neck, back and shoulders due to the excessive weight of her breasts. Overly large breasts can cause more serious problems such as difficulty breathing and impaired circulation.
In addition to the physical problems caused by very large breasts, women may also be plagued by the difficulty of finding clothes that fit as well as unwanted stares and comments. This can lead to lowered self-esteem and poor mental health.
Breast reduction procedure
Breast reduction surgery removes excess fat, skin and glandular tissue to create a breast more in proportion to the woman’s body. This cosmetic surgery is more complicated than the procedure for breast augmentation and also leaves more obvious scars.
Reduction mammoplasty is performed under general anaesthesia and involves one of three types of incisions: a circular pattern around the areola, a keyhole-shaped pattern around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease or an inverted T-shape. After the incision is made, the nipple is repositioned and reduced in size.
Next, the underlying breast tissue is reduced, shaped and lifted to produce a smaller, more aesthetically pleasing breast. If the breasts are especially large, the nipple may need to be repositioned higher on the breast. Lastly, the incisions are closed with sutures and surgical tape.
Cost of breast reduction
The costs for breast reduction surgery can vary drastically according to the difficulty of the procedure and the doctor you choose. Surgeon’s fees tend to range between $6,000 and $8,000, plus there are the assistant surgeon’s fees, anaesthetist’s fee, cost of hospital facilities and follow-up visits. Since reduction mammoplasty is considered to be medically necessary in some cases rather than purely cosmetic, your insurance may pay for part of the costs.
Risks of breast reduction
Before considering breast reduction surgery, you should be in good health and at your optimal weight. The most common complaints following reduction mammoplasty are loss of sensation in the nipples and unattractive scarring. Some patients are unable to breast feed after having the surgery.
As with any major surgery, there are possible risks including infection, bleeding, blood clots and poor healing. There is also the chance that revisional surgery will be necessary at a later date.
Celebrities who have had a breast reduction
Despite all the possible problems, most women are happy with the results of the surgery. Most are able to live a more active, pain-free life and find shopping for clothes much easier. Celebrities who have had their bustlines reduced include Drew Barrymore, Queen Latifah, Patricia Heaton and comedian Janeane Garofalo.
Have you ever considered having breast reduction surgery?
Plastic Surgery Guide: Breast Lift
Most women start out with firm, perky breasts, but things can happen over time that cause them to droop and lose their shape, like pregnancy, breast feeding, losing or gaining weight, heredity and plain, old ageing. If you want higher, more youthful-looking, firmer breasts, you might want to consider this kind of breast surgery.
What is a breast lift?
The sole purpose of a breast lift, or mastoplexy, is to correct sagging breasts and give the bust an uplifted contour. This surgery does not significantly change the size of the breasts. If you want larger breasts, consider augmentation surgery, or to go smaller, a breast reduction.
Is breast lift surgery for you?
The ideal candidate for a breast lift is in good health but has breasts that sag and have lost their shape. The breasts may appear to be deflated and have nipples that point down. They may be pendulous, with an elongated shape.
If you have any of these problems, the look of your breasts can be improved by a breast lift. You won’t regain the bustline you had at 18, but you should see a more pleasing shape and silhouette.
What is the breast lift procedure?
There are a variety of techniques used to perform a mastoplexy, and their use depends on several factors. These include breast size and shape, degree of sagging, size and position of the areolas and elasticity of the skin. The three most common incision patterns are around the areola, around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease or around the areola, vertically down from the breast crease and horizontally along the crease.
After the incision is made, the surgeon lifts and reshapes the underlying breast tissue to improve contour and firmness. Excess skin is removed and the areola repositioned to a more youthful placement on the breast. The remaining skin is tightened as the incisions are closed.
The results
Results will be visible immediately after surgery. The incisions will leave permanent scars that will fade over time. The results of a mastoplexy are long-lasting, especially if the patient maintains a healthy weight.
The cost of a breast lift
The cost of breast lift procedure will vary according to the surgeon and the facilities. The surgeon’s fee for a mastoplexy should range from $6,000 to $8,000. Add to this the fees for the assistant surgeon and anaesthetist plus the cost of facilities and follow-up visits. If you have implants done at the same time, the cost would rise to about $12,000.
Risks
As with any surgery done under general anaesthesia, there is the chance the patient will have an adverse reaction. In addition to the scarring, there can be a loss of sensation in the nipple or the breast.
Have you considered having a breast lift?
Plastic Surgery Guide: Eyelid Surgery
Want to look younger without having a facelift? If your main issue is wrinkles and bags around your eyes, you could be a good candidate for eyelid surgery. This cosmetic procedure, called blepharoplasty, can make you look years younger. We take a look at eyelid surgery, the cost and how long the results last.
What is blepharoplasty?
Eyelid surgery can give a fresher, rejuvenated look to the entire eye area by correcting any or all of several problems. One is excess fatty deposits that make the upper eyelids appear puffy. These can be removed, giving the eyelids a smoother, more youthful look.
This surgery can eliminate the loose, sagging skin that makes creases and folds in the upper eyelid, sometimes interfering with vision. Excess skin of the lower eyelid can be tightened, smoothing out wrinkles. Surgery on the lower eyelids can correct bags under the eyes as well as droopiness of the lids.
Who should have eyelid surgery?
The ideal candidate for eyelid surgery is an adult in good health that has realistic expectations about the results. The patient should be free of medical conditions that can interfere with healing as well as problems like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, high blood pressure or circulatory disorders. Candidates for this surgery should also not suffer from serious eye conditions like glaucoma.
How is the surgery performed?
Blepharoplasty may be done under general anaesthesia or intravenous sedation. Incisions are placed so that the scars will be hidden inside the natural creases of the eyelids. Problems of the upper eyelids like droopy lids and fat deposits are corrected by repositioning the fat, then the muscles, tissue and skin are tightened.
Excess skin in the lower eyelids is removed through an incision just beneath the lower lash line. At end of the surgery, incisions are closed by sutures, skin adhesives or surgical tape. Until the surgery is fully healed, the patient must use sun protection and wear darkly tinted glasses.
How much does blepharoplasty cost?
In Australia, the cost of either and an upper lid or lower lid blepharoplasty can range from $2,500 to $4,500. The cost of having both done at once can range from $4,500 to $8,000. The price is dependent on how long the surgery takes and should include surgeon’s fees, fees for the assistant surgeon and anaesthetist, hospital costs and follow-up visits.
How long do the results of blepharoplasty last?
The results of eyelid surgery should last a lifetime, but the patient will continue to age naturally. Proper sun care can prolong the positive effects of the surgery. The ideal outcome is that your friends will say, “You look so rested”, not “Did you have something done?”
Would you ever consider eyelid surgery?
5 Things To Consider Before Having A Facelift
A facelift, or rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that smoothes out some of the signs of ageing on the face and neck, including sagging, creases, loose skin, fatty deposits and slack muscle tone. This procedure is often combined with eyelid surgery and a brow lift.
Here are five things you need to know before committing to a facelift.
A facelift is major surgery
This procedure is done under general anaesthesia and takes several hours. In a traditional facelift, an incision is made inside the hairline allowing fat to be excised from the face, neck and jowls. Muscle and deeper layers are repositioned, then the skin is re-draped and the excess cut away.
A facelift requires after care
You don’t get to run into the doctor’s office, get a facelift and go home. Following a facelift, the patient needs to spend time in an aftercare facility where they can be monitored for complications and receive pain medications. The stitches must be removed and time is needed for the patient to resume normal activities.
It’s expensive
In Australia, the simplest procedure addresses only the layers of skin and is called endoscopic facelift. This lift ranges from $6,500 to $12,000. The standard lift, or SMAS (superficial musculo aponeurotic system ) facelift and neck lift generally costs $17,000–$25,000. The most complicated lift is the deep plane facelift, which is priced at $20,000–$30,000.
These costs include fees for the surgeon, assistant surgeon and anaesthetist, hospital costs and follow-up visits. Facelifts are usually considered to be cosmetic procedures and are not covered by insurance.
There are serious risks
Post-surgery problems can include numbness, excessive bleeding and infections. Unfortunately, there are even more serious problems that can be fatal, like respiratory failure due to toxic levels of anaesthetics. Minimsze the chances of complications by choosing your plastic surgeon carefully and thoroughly investigating the risks before deciding to have a facelift.
There are less drastic solutions available
While a facelift is the best solution for major sagging, there are alternatives to a complete lift. One is a chemical peel that burns off the damaged outer layers of skin to reveal the baby-soft new skin underneath. Another is laser treatment that can remove outer layers of skin and tighten muscles.
Still another is Botox, which is popular in Hollywood for both men and women. Botox weakens or paralyses some muscles and nerves, making for fewer lines and wrinkles. Although there are non-medical sources offering Botox injections, these injections should really only be done by a doctor.
If you have small problem areas and don’t want to go for the complete facelift, there are minor surgeries available targeting certain conditions. Consider a cheek lift, upper brow lift or neck lift to refresh your appearance without resorting to a complete facelift.
What do you think of facelifts?
Plastic Surgery Guide To Abdominoplasty
If your tummy isn’t as flat as you would like for it to be, you may have considered having abdominoplasty, or as it’s commonly called, a tummy tuck. While having this surgery can definitely improve the way you look in tight jeans or a swimsuit, don’t expect miracles. Here’s a realistic guide to abdominoplasty.
What a tummy tuck can do
Abdominoplasty can remove excess skin and fat as well as repairing stretched-out muscles resulting from pregnancy, ageing, weight fluctuations or heredity fat deposits. A tummy tuck can give you a smoother, flatter abdomen.
What a tummy tuck can’t do
While tummy tuck surgery can remove some stretch marks, it can’t get rid of all of them.
Abdominoplasty is not the lazy woman’s shortcut to weight loss. For the best results, the patient should already be at a healthy and stable weight before undergoing the surgery. If you’re planning to get pregnant in the future, this surgery should be postponed until afterwards.
Have realistic expectations
If you look at all those flattering photos in ads for plastic surgeons, you’d think that you could emerge from your abdominoplasty with the toned, flawless tummy of a swimsuit model. You need to have realistic expectations and your cosmetic surgeon should talk you through them.
The abdominoplasty procedure
There will be one incision made between the pubic line and the navel that will leave a scar at the bikini line. If you have a large amount of excess skin and fat, another incision will be necessary around the navel in order to reposition it higher on your abdomen. This is also likely to leave a scar.
Abdominoplasty cost
In Australia, a tummy tuck can cost from $6,000-$10,000. None of that will be covered by insurance unless your doctor considers it medically necessary to repair a condition like an abdominal hernia.
Down time after abdominoplasty
The average down time following a tummy tuck (or before you can drive and go back to work or other moderate activity) is 10 to 14 days. Full physical activity like exercise is permitted after six weeks.
Liposuction and other surgery
In some cases, abdominal liposuction can be more successful than a tummy tuck, so speak to your cosmetic surgeon about both options and which, if any, are best for you.
If you are considering getting other cosmetic surgeries like a breast reduction, these can sometimes be performed at the same time as a tummy tuck. Discuss your plan with a plastic surgeon.
Would you consider getting a tummy tuck?
Plastic Surgery Guide: How Much Does Liposuction Cost?
Liposuction is one of the most popular cosmetic plastic surgeries, so let’s take a look at what to expect from liposuction, including how much does liposuction cost?
Liposuction removes fat deposits from areas of the body, especially stubborn spots that do not respond to dieting or exercise. Liposuction is most frequently performed on the abdomen, hips, buttocks, thighs, legs and waist. It can also be done on the arms, neck, back, inner knee, cheeks, chin and chest. Properly done, liposuction can give you more sculpted curves and tighter contours.
Liposuction cost
How much you’ll pay for liposuction depends on how many areas you have treated in one procedure. Typically you’ll pay $3,000-$5,000 for one area of the body, $5,000-$6,500 for two, $6,500-$8,000 for three and $9,500-$15,000 for four to six areas. Liposuction can be done alone or combined with other cosmetic procedures like a breast reduction, facelift or tummy tuck.
The total price of your procedure will include the surgeon’s fee, anaesthesia, cost of hospital or surgical facility, post-surgery garments, medical tests and prescriptions for medication. For a more exact idea of how much the procedure will cost, consult a surgeon in your area who performs liposuction. Check with the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons to find a registered plastic surgeon, and do your homework.
The procedure
What happens during liposuction? First, you receive anaesthesia, then small, inconspicuous incisions are made. A thin, hollow tube called a cannula is inserted through the incisions to loosen the excess fat, then the dislodged fat is suctioned out with a surgical vacuum. The results will be visible once the swelling and bruising of the procedure subside.
Can the fat come back?
Generally, no, because the fat cells have been vacuumed out. However, liposuction should not be considered a treatment for obesity. You should be at your optimal weight before having the procedure performed.
Liposuction is not for everyone. The ideal candidate is an adult who is within 30% of optimal weight with good muscle tone and elastic skin that is in good health and has an optimistic outlook on the surgery. It also helps with healing if the patient is a non-smoker.
Possible complications
The list of complications that can happen is too long to list here, so thoroughly discuss this subject with your plastic surgeon. Problems can range from uneven contours or irregular pigmentation to blood clots, scarring or nerve damage. Liposuction is major surgery, it can be very painful and it should never be considered an easy way to drop a few kilos quickly.
New liposuction techniques
The latest techniques being used in liposuction are external and internal ultrasonic liposculpture. These techniques allow fat to be removed in larger volumes and more precisely with less swelling or bruising. Currently, a small number of surgeons in Australia are performing these procedures.
Sick Of Cellulite? 5 Things To Know About Cellulaze
Cellulaze is a new treatment that breaks down cellulite using laser. We chat with Celluluaze surgeon Dr Scott Ingram on how it works, the cost, the pain and the results. Dr Ingram is the owner of Form and Function Clinic, plastic and reconstructive surgeon and President of the Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, and is the only surgeon in Australia accredited to perform Cellulaze.
What is Cellulaze and how does it work?
Cellulaze is a minimally-invasive one-time surgical procedure for the reduction of cellulite. This treatment is brand new to Australia and works by emitting laser energy into the troubled area (cellulite) and breaking the bands that create fat dimples in the skin. Cellulaze can drastically reduce the appearance of cellulite through its innovative SideLight Laser technique and after undergoing extensive training in the United States, I was chosen to pioneer the procedure in Australia. Cellulaze has been available in the U.S. for over three years and is clinically proven to reduce the appearance of cellulite.
What kind of results can patients typically expect?
Typically, all patients will experience a significant improvement in the appearance of their cellulite after a Cellulaze treatment. Results vary from patient to patient and range from partial to complete removal of cellulite.
How much does it cost?
This one-time treatment starts at $7,000 and is charged according to the size of the area being treatment.
How much downtime does a patient need?
A Cellulaze treatment requires minimal downtime. A typical patient will resume daily activities immediately and return to work within days. Vigorous activities and exercise however are not recommended for a minimum of 3 weeks and possibly up to 6 weeks post treatment.
What is the pain like throughout and after the procedure?
Cellulaze is a minimally invasive treatment performed under local anesthesia with an oral sedation. The procedure is extremely well tolerated with little or no discomfort during and after the procedure.
Plastic Surgery Guide: Buttock Enhancement
Buttock enhancement is a relatively new procedure in Australia that is quickly catching up with Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and LA. Plastic surgeon Dr Laith Barnouti is seeing more and more people requesting the “Pippa butt” – a nice full and perky butt to the body as opposed to the J Lo or Brazillian butt which is more enhanced and bigger.
Buttock augmentation can be achieved either through Brazilian implants or via fat transfer. The Brazilian implants, similar to breast implants are made out of highly cohesive silicone. The fat transfer procedure involves harvesting fat from the same patient but different areas of the body, purifying the fat and injecting it into the buttock areas.
What is buttock enhancement?
Buttock enhancement surgery reshapes, increases the volume and raises the glutens for a perkier appearance and can be done in two ways, it can use your own purified fat (used from you abdomen, love handles or any other excess fatty area to harvest the fat from). This is a minimally invasive procedure where 50 per cent of the injected fast will dissolve in the first six week and the remainder stays forever.
How long does recovery take?
You can return home the same day. This has quicker recovery than implants. Return to work in 2 days time, day-to-day activities in 7-10 days.
If you don’t have enough fat and you need large volume of augmentation then an implant is used. This involves having a 7cm single incision located over the tailbone in the midline, through this incision the buttock muscle (gluteus maximus) is identified and divided to create just sizeable adequate pockets for the implant. The implant will then be introduced and positioned to look natural.
Implants require an overnight stay in hospital. Day-to-day activity takes 4 weeks following surgery.
What does buttock enhancement cost
Costs start at $10,900.
Plastic Surgery Guide: Breast Implants
Considering plastic surgery but don’t know where to start? Our new Plastic Surgery Guide will cover common procedures as well as the latest methods, starting with breast implants.
What is the procedure?
Breast implants, also known as breast augmentation and breast enlargement involves placing an implant into a pocket formed beneath the breast tissue or muscle which helps increase the size and volume of the breast. This is one of the most commonly performed procedures that Dr Barnouti at Sydney Plastic Surgery is well-known for which helps women achieve natural looking breasts that are in harmony with her figure. For women who are suffering from droopy or saggy breasts then the breast lift also known as Mastopexy is a good option. This procedure is especially good for women who’s breasts have lost their youthful shape or for women who have seen their breasts sag as a result of pregnancy, weight fluctuations, ageing, gravity and heredity.
The breast lift procedure can only be described as a fine art as precise millimetric measurements are taken of the breast. Through this meticulous process Dr Barnouti is able to produce natural looking breasts by implementing exact measurements to create a more predictable outcome…i.e. perky breasts that are positioned perfectly. Once these measurements are taken Dr Barnouti can then advise if a breast lift is performed alone or in combination with augmentation to further improve the breast shape. The breast lift is designed to raise and firm the breast by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue to reshape and support the new breast contour. The augmentation can be performed using your own fatty tissue, also known as fat injection, or by using an implant.
Different type of breast implants
There are many decisions to make when considering breast implants including the implant type and size, the pocket and the incision placement – this is where Dr Barnouti will help you make the right decision. Breast implants come in two different shapes – round and tear drop and can contain saline or silicone.
1. Teardrop implants are contoured and are considered the most anatomical. They are shaped like a natural breast and create a sloped shape when placed over the chest muscles. While these are the most natural looking breast implants, it takes a skilled plastic surgeon to ensure they are placed properly. For this reason it is important to ask your surgeon to see photos of other patients that have received this type of implant.
2. Round Implants are the most common implants as they generally give women the most lift, fullness and cleavage. Certain types of round implants can also enhance the forward projection of the breasts. Some women however, feel that round implants are too artificial looking. Again its best to discuss these options with your surgeon and choose the right shape and size that works with your body frame and the look you are aiming to achieve.
Saline or silicone?
You can also choose between saline and silicone breast implants although saline implants are running out of fashion in Australia. Silicone breast implants are made of rubber shell and filled with highly cohesive silicone gel and are far superior to saline implants in terms of feel, shape and longevity. Where the breast implant is placed is something else to think about with the option of placing it under the muscle or above the muscle. While many options are available it is very important for women to sit down with their surgeon after a thorough examination and discuss which option makes the most sense for your body and the outcome you want to achieve.
The Brazilian implants are another excellent choice to enhance the breast and are covered in a layer of polyurethane-foam that creates a ‘furry’ feel to the outer shell in terms of feel. If you were to hold a Brazilian implant it would feel like fur or a suede material. Once inside your body they start off by feeling firmer than a regular silicone implant and can last longer than the normal ‘softening’ process of a regular implant – the idea is that they start out firmer but end up being softer than other implants in the end.
Other things to consider…
Another consideration you will need to make with your breast augmentation is the location of the incision – there are three common incisions or entry points for the implant used to augment the breast. The most common incision is placed directly under the breast with other choices including an incision around the areola (where your nipple is) or the armpit. Again this decision can be discussed with your surgeon to determine which option is best for you.
Consulting a plastic surgeon
To discuss your breast augmentation surgery, it will be helpful to bring along your partner and a list of questions that you have so you will not forget to ask any of them. An information sheet and breast augmentation after care sheet should be provided for you during the breast consultation.
Cost
You should pay between $10,000 -$12,500 this is inclusive of the surgeon’s fee, assistant surgeons fee, anesthetist’s fee, operating theatre, GST and all follow-up visits cost. Cost should also cover your choice of teardrop breast implants, round breast implants, Brazilian breast implants or any other breast implants you wish.
Considerations for breast enlargement surgery
– You will need between 8-14 days off work. For light duties or office work you can return after 8 days for heavier duties it is best to return to work after 14 days.
– Sport bra need to be worn for 4 weeks after breast augmentation surgery.
– You cannot do any vigorous exercise or go to the gym for 6 weeks.
– You cannot drive, drink or sign any important documents in the first 48 hours after your breast implants surgery.
– You must have realistic expectations – breast implants average size is 250-400ml.
