Why cosmetic surgery should never be given as a prize

Trivialising cosmetic surgery only leads to issues later on

It’s been reported recently that an organisation in America chose to give away cosmetic surgery procedures as prizes during an event. This is troubling on both an ethical level as well as a safety level, with little by way of patient care seemingly being considered.

As part of the prize, the winner would be entitled to a procedure of their choice providing it was up to a certain amount. The man who claimed one prize later ‘gifted it’ to his wife, who will be the one to undergo plastic surgery. This is not recommended nor is it something we would recommend.

Don’t trivialise cosmetic surgery procedures

There are multiple issues with this. Most notably it trivialises cosmetic surgery on a large scale. The decision to undergo procedures should not made lightly; it most certainly shouldn’t be made simply because it’s effectively free.

In the same way voucher sites such as Groupon and the like encourage and lure patients into undergoing (often unnecessary or sparsely considered) treatments giving cosmetic treatments or procedures away as a reward or a prize is simply dangerous.

Consider what would happen if the patient underwent a procedure they didn’t need or even really want. Even worse, imagine the uproar and upset for the patient and family if the procedure didn’t have the desired outcome?

We’ve seen these kinds of headlines time and time again, but still they pop up from time to time; granted more likely in the US than UK. From a plastic surgeon’s perspective it’s most definitely unethical, but it also trivialises the whole idea of plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures.

To clarify, a patient should only ever undergo cosmetic surgery if:

  • It’s their choice: what are the motivations for surgery?
  • They are doing it for themselves; you should never have surgery of this kind for another person, or to impress anyone
  • They are suitable for the procedure; if you don’t need a rhinoplasty a reputable plastic surgeon will not give you one
  • They understand the risks as well as the rewards of their chosen procedure
  • They understand they may not like the results; expectation must be managed
  • They understand the recovery process involved in the specific procedure or treatment they’re considering

If you would like more information about any cosmetic procedure the best starting point is to book a consultation. Do your research and pick a reliable and regulated plastic surgeon who will only offer you surgery if you need it and when you are ready.

Make an informed decision

Call or email the clinic if you wish to discuss any treatment in more detail. You can also you the treatment pages and testimonials on the site to help your research.

The fat transfer procedure revolutionising the cosmetic industry

The fat transfer procedure with body-jet replaces out dated liposuction

With traditional liposuction treatments being used less thanks to more effective and safer alternatives, it’s no surprise there has been a rise in patients seeking a fat transfer procedure that offers maximum results with minimal downtime, compared to traditional fat removal surgery.

Mr Gary Ross is leading the way for patients seeking cosmetic procedures, such as mummy makeovers, by offering an alternative procedure that’s both safer and more efficient. Not only that, the harvested fat can be transferred to another part of the body to improve volume or body contours.

Mr Ross noticed the trend shifting from fat removal surgery to fat transfer in the latter part of 2017, and believes 2018 will also be the year we see patients swap silicone implants for volumising areas, such as the breasts or buttocks, with fat instead.

Specialising in body rejuvenation surgery and mummy makeover procedures, the Manchester plastic surgeon uses the body-jet device to take fat from one area of a patient’s body and reintroduce it to another part of the body or face that requires volume.

Unlike traditional forms of fat removal surgery that are often unreliable and painful, the body-jet technology uses the gentle power of water to contour the body during the fat transfer procedure. Fat can be removed in a more gentle way, allowing for a less invasive and safer autologous fat transfer treatment for both men and women.

For those seeking breast enhancement, body-jet can provide a natural boost to volume, in some cases eliminating the need for silicone implants. A fat transfer procedure that’s leading the way in the UK, this is a remarkable step forward for the industry, and one that’s likely to be big news during the next 12 months.

A BAAPS and BAPRAS member, Mr Ross was one of the first medical professionals in England to offer the water-assisted fat transfer procedure, and believes scores of patients will start seeking more natural ways to enhance their bodies.

“Last year we saw a larger focus on the approach that less is more with regards to body contouring and enhancement. There’s no doubt in my mind this will also be a focus during 2018 and beyond. Patient safety is, rightly, the main priority now for most plastic surgeons, and this along with quicker healing times ensures procedures like fat transfer will be popular in many cosmetic clinics,” Mr. Ross says.

Mr Ross believes this shift in demand may be down to the change in celebrity culture, with less women seeking Kardashian proportions in favour of a more natural appearance. The fake look is most definitely on the decline, Mr Ross points out.

body-jet fat transfer is making waves because the treatment is versatile and the results are impressive. One of the benefits of offering body-jet is how much can actually be done without implants in terms of volume improvement. Silicone implants have their place, and fat transfer isn’t suitable for everyone, but this is modern way to boost volume to an area without place foreign objects into the body, which can of course cause some patients complications.

Undergoing body-jet fat transfer is less invasive than traditional lipo techniques, leading to speedier recovery times and patient satisfaction. Using the body-jet, liposuction and/or fat transfer can be performed in a safe, effective and easy way, that causes much less trauma to the area being treated.

“We are doing remarkable things with body-jet and I know 2018 is going to be the year patients embrace this safer cosmetic procedure to regain or boost volume,” Mr. Ross concludes.

The Rise of the Tummy Tuck for Excess Skin Removal

The Rise of the Tummy Tuck for Excess Skin Removal

In recent years, tummy tuck surgery has seen a steady increase in enquiries, as patients seek a long term solution for excess skin removal around the abdomen. Abdominoplasty is a broad term including a variety of body rejuvenation surgery procedures designed to improve the appearance of the mid section.

Why is the tummy tuck so popular?

Thanks to advances in the techniques used and the rise of social acceptance of cosmetic surgery procedures, men and women are now choosing tummy tuck surgery over non-surgical methods. This is helped in part by the realisation that many non-surgical fat removal and skin tightening procedures often have limited results.

Non invasive options such as energy assisted skin tightening and fat reduction may seem like a less costly way to fix loose skin but on the whole these treatments prove to offer very little in the long term and require multiple visits to a cosmetic clinic to maintain the results. Also, in the majority of cases, they can also only help patients with limited skin laxity and cannot replicate what tummy tuck surgery can offer.

For those reasons – not to mention the effect celebrities revealing they have sought abdominoplasty and surgery for excess skin removal can have – tummy tuck surgery in the UK has seen a rise in patients once again.

What do the experts say about excess skin removal?

Mr Gary Ross, a plastic surgeon in Manchester specialising in body rejuvenation surgery, has spoken out in the media previously about the long term benefits of choosing surgery to improve the abdomen, and offers a variety of tummy tuck procedures options to both male and female patients.

He says: “Abdominoplasty remains the most effective way to help patients with excess skin and fat, offering results that non surgical treatments such as skin tightening simply cannot match. Whilst they may be suitable for patients with very minor skin laxity, those left with folds of skin after extreme weight loss, or ‘mummy tummy’ after pregnancy will not find long term results unless they choose an abdominoplasty.

There are several different techniques to remove excess skin depending on the patient’s concerns and a full consultation is necessary in order to ascertain whether any will help. During a consultation we can decide with method is most suitable and discuss the pros, cons and risks of the tummy tuck surgery.

Realistic expectation should be a priority, and patient’s must be aware they will be left with a substantial scar; although most see this as a fair trade to be without unwanted loose skin,” he concludes.

What are the main times of abdominoplasty?

Three of the most popular approaches of this form of body rejuvenation surgery at Mr Ross’s clinic include fleur de lis abdominoplasty, mini tummy tuck, and full tummy tuck. Whilst the mini and full abdominoplasty procedures remove excess skin and fat from a horizontal incision that can usually be neatly hidden in the underwear line, the fleur de lis approach will leave a vertical scar. This form of surgery for excess skin removal, recently becoming a media headline thanks to the great results actress Lisa Riley has showcased, is usually reserved for those with a lot of skin to remove.

As well as removing skin during this type of body rejuvenation surgery, the abdominal wall muscles can be tightened and hernias removed if this is also a concern. Abdominoplasty procedures can therefore have a life changing effect on patients, with many returning post operatively to express their happiness at being given a new lease of life.

For more information about body rejuvenation surgery for excess skin removal and abdominoplasty procedures, please contact the clinic to book a consultation.

 

What To Look For In An Abdominoplasty Surgeon

What To Look For In An Abdominoplasty Surgeon

Undergoing abdominoplasty surgery requires seeking the skills of a tummy tuck expert, but when considering the fleur de lis technique it’s important to do your research and find the best abdominoplasty surgeon specialising in this type of body contouring surgery.

Mr Gary Ross is a plastic surgeon in Manchester pioneering this type of cosmetic surgery. He has performed numerous successful surgeries on patients in the north of England and beyond. He has been performing this detailed form of body contouring surgery for a long time, offering patients life-changing results whilst managing expectations to ensure satisfactory treatment.

The fleur de lis tummy tuck has become more well known recently due to articles in the press. This, in turn, has led patients to consider body contouring surgery outside of a traditional tummy tuck. In this variation of the procedure, a vertical incision is created in order to remove excess fat and skin from the abdomen and flanks. The scar is more visible but, unlike the mini tummy tuck and abdominoplasty procedures that focus on the lower part of the midsection, this is designed to tackle the upper mid section as well.

If you are considering tummy tuck surgery, and specifically the fleur de lis approach, you will likely have some questions about the procedure; how long does it take, what will the results be like, what scarring should be expected? Your questions are important, and help form part of the decision making process, which is where seeking out the best abdominoplasty surgeon is vital.

The a good abdominoplasty surgeon should have a complete understanding of all forms of tummy tuck surgery, including the fleur de lis approach and other more complex variations of this type of body contouring procedure. Patients should undergo a thorough consultation with their plastic surgeon of choice in order to ascertain which type of body contouring surgery is most suitable, along with how to prepare for the surgery.

In some cases fat transfer and liposuction or skin tightening treatments may be combined with abdominoplasty procedures. The key to a successful fleur de lis – or indeed any form of tummy tuck surgery – is to ensure you understand the risks as well as the rewards of undergoing the cosmetic surgery.

Realistic expectations are important, which is a responsibility the best abdominoplasty surgeon for your case should prioritise, and all patients should be offered surgery only if it’s truly appropriate and likely to provide good results. Every case is different, and there is no one size fits all approach to any form of body contouring.

When considering any cosmetic procedures it’s worth doing your research and making sure you consult with a plastic surgeon who specialises in the field of surgery you’re hoping to undergo. Take the time to check the credentials of the surgeon, and don’t be afraid to ask questions or to ask for before and after photographs. You may even be able to speak to former patients about their experience in order to make an informed and safe decision.

The Different Types Of Abdominoplasty Surgery

The Different Types Of Abdominoplasty Surgery

When choosing tummy tuck surgery you need to know the types of abdominoplasty surgery that are available and ultimately which form of the procedure is most suitable for your aesthetic goals and circumstances.

Mr Gary Ross is a plastic surgeon in Manchester who specialises in this form of body rejuvenation surgery. He performs a myriad of tummy tuck treatments designed to recontour the abdomen, both as stand alone procedures or as part of mummy makeover surgery.

Under the umbrella of abdominoplasty surgery there are several variations of the popular cosmetic surgery procedure, including fleur de lis abdominoplasty and the mini tummy tuck, as well as the ‘traditional tummy tuck’.

A patient may choose to seek tummy tuck surgery for a number of reasons. In most cases this type of body contouring surgery is undertaken to improve the mid section after pregnancy (mummy makeover surgery) extreme weight loss or the ageing process. The basic principle is to remove excess skin and firm the appearance of the mid section, although techniques vary depending on the patient’s individual needs.

Mini Tummy Tuck

If a ‘full’ or traditional tummy tuck is not required, a mini tummy tuck may be suggested to remove excess fat and skin. This is still a surgical procedure, of course, but only addresses the lower abdominal area. Patients who have excess loose tissue following childbirth or following previous abdominal surgery are usually the best candidates for this type of body rejuvenation surgery.

Fleur De Lis Tummy Tuck

The fleur de lis abdominoplasty removes unwanted or excess fat and skin and rejuvenates the abdominal area to leave the abdomen looking firmer and tighter. Mr Ross is one of the pioneers of this for of tummy tuck surgery in the UK. This body contouring procedure is usually more suitable for patients who have a lot of excess skin and fat in the upper abdomen and/or around the flanks.

Most notably, TV presenter Lisa Riley underwent this form of body rejuvenation surgery after losing a substantial amount of weight. In some cases, this type of abdominoplasty is offered to patients that have midline abdominal scars already, as part of treatment to rejuvenate the area further. Every case is different and an assessment is required to determine suitability.

Whether a patient undergoes a mini tummy tuck or requires the fleur de lis, all variations of abdominoplasty are surgical and require invasive techniques. For this reason, undergoing tummy tuck surgery should be considered thoroughly and only after consultation with a plastic surgeon.

What to expect during a consultation

A consultation for a fleur de lis or mini tummy tuck procedures enables the patient to learn more about the body contouring procedures. It’s an opportunity for the plastic surgeon to evaluate and advise on a treatment plan based on the results of an examination, but also allows the patient to ask questions and get an understanding about the abdominoplasty procedure and recovery.

Whether fleur de lis abdominoplasty or mini tummy tuck is undertaken, scarring is unavoidable, but most patients agree this is a fair trade for a flatter abdomen and a more toned appearance to the mid section. Both abdominoplasty procedures can form part of wider mummy makeover surgery, alongside breast uplift/mastopexy procedures.

Mr Ross helps patients from Manchester and surrounding areas, including Cheshire, Altrincham, Wirral, Alderley Edge, Wilmslow, Nantwich, Sale, Prestwich and Whitefield, to transform their appearance with tummy tuck surgery and mummy makeover surgery. It’s important to have realistic expectations of the outcome of abdominoplasty surgery, and your plastic surgeon should manage expectations before and after the procedure.

To find out more about this form of body rejuvenation surgery, and how it can form part of mummy makeover surgery, get in touch to arrange a consultation.

Mini Tummy Tuck Surgery Made Simple

Mini Tummy Tuck Surgery Made Simple

Abdominoplasty procedures are becoming increasingly more sought after, thanks partly to the rise of the mummy makeover, but it’s the mini tummy tuck that patients are contacting the clinic most about this month.

What is a mini tummy tuck?

Unlike a full abdominoplasty, or the fleur de lis abdominoplasty, which also tackles the flanks, the mini tummy tuck is designed to help patients seeking to rejuvenate the lower part of the abdomen. The mini tummy tuck helps patients who have less skin to remove, making it more suitable for women following childbirth or patients that may have had previous abdominal surgery.

A mini tuck does not remove a large amount of skin. For that reason it can only achieve subtle results and has a negligible impact on concerns such as stretch marks which the full tummy tuck procedure can address.

It’s important to remember that if loose skin at and above the belly button is present, a full tummy tuck or fleur de lis is likely to be needed. A consultation is required to ensure this form of body rejuvenation is both suitable and safe for the patient to undergo. A full examination is required to ascertain the main issues and how best they can be treated.

How does the procedure work?

During a smaller tummy tuck procedure, skin and excess fat will be removed from the lower part of the abdomen. This procedure usually takes between 60 to 90 minutes. An incision is made just above the pubic region, and as part of this cosmetic procedure, the skin is carefully separated from the underlying tissue. In some cases the plastic surgeon can tighten the abdominal wall too.

Will I have a big scar?

The extent of the incision varies from patient to patient, although it’s important to consider that more tissue can be removed if the incision is longer. Of course, this does however result is a larger scar, so it’s important to discuss and consider your options prior to undergoing mini tummy tuck surgery.

Generally, in mini tummy tuck surgery, the skin is then stretched down and any excess skin is removed. The tummy button does not need relocating, unlike during the full abdominoplasty or fleur de lis variation. The incisions are closed with dissolvable stitches and the skin is repositioned.

How long does recovery take?

It is unusual to require drains although a compressive dressing is usually needed. The good news is that recovery from mini tummy tuck surgery is usually faster than from a full tummy tuck, because it often involves a small incision and less time in surgery.

To book a consultation to discuss your body rejuvenation surgery needed please email the team to arrange an appointment with Mr Gary Ross to talk through your tummy tuck options.

 

Could facial fat transfer treatments replace dermal fillers?

Dermal filler treatments could be replaced by facial fat transfer treatments

There’s no doubt that dermal filler treatments are one of the most popular non surgical anti ageing treatments in the UK now, but recently it’s been suggested that fat transfer treatments could replace them.

According to the Global Facial Fat Transfer Market Research Report, this form of facial rejuvenation and body contouring treatment is growing rapidly. This in large part seems to be due to the increasing demand for facial fat transfer treatments within cosmetic clinics, and improvements to the technology in the facial rejuvenation industry.

Dermal fillers have been used as part of facial anti ageing treatments for some time now, and when used with skill and care can have remarkable short-term results. Popular for lip volumisation, facial contouring and even non surgical nose reshaping treatments, synthetic fillers are frequently requested but often less regulated than surgical procedures also designed to restore facial volume.

Anti ageing treatments have come a long way since Botox was introduced to the cosmetic landscape way back in 2002, but one lesser-discussed option is fat transfer treatment. Used for body contouring as well as facial volumisation, autologous fat transfer is the removal of a person’s fat from one area and transferring it to another area.

Unlike dermal fillers which are non surgical and take just half an hour, autologous fat transfer is classed as a surgical procedure. A cannula is used to extract the person’s fat before it’s reinjected to the area of concern. It’s important to note only ones own fat is suitable for use in this procedure.

One of the benefits to choosing fat transfer over dermal fillers is that it doesn’t use any artificial materials or products. Some patients prefer the idea of using fat – a natural product – rather than silicone implants or synthetic dermal fillers.

Because the fat used is natural and procured from the patient’s own body, they are less likely to experience side effects (many of which are common with dermal fillers and injectables) such as infection or rejection.

Unlike dermal filler treatment for facial revolumising, which often require bi-annual repeat treatments, fat transfer for the face can offer longer term anti ageing results. It’s excellent as a stand-alone treatment but also in combination with other procedures, such as facelift surgery.

Booking a consultation for facial fat transfer

The transferring of fat for volumisation or contouring purposes is effective but not suitable for everyone. It’s important you seek the skills of an expert in fat transfer before decided to comit to treatment. Results are usually pleasing to the patient but cannot be guaranteed due to the nature of the treatment e.g. in some cases the fat may not take.

If you wish to discuss the benefits of facial fat transfer procedures, or the difference between fillers and other forms of facial rejuvenation book a consultation. This provides an excellent opportunity for prospective patients to learn more about both surgical and non surgical anti ageing treatments that may be suitable.

Three Forms of Body Contouring Surgery for Women

Three Forms of Body Contouring Surgery for Women

There has been a rise in stories surrounding body contouring surgery, in particular, the mummy makeover. Body rejuvenation surgery is not a new concept. There have been variations of many popular procedures for decades. However, improved techniques and outcomes have fuelled demand for these types of procedure.

Body rejuvenation itself is a broad term used to describe a wide selection of surgical procedures. The primary aim is to help women feel more confident in their bodies after pregnancy and/or substantial weight loss. These procedures can include but are not limited to, tummy tuck, breast rejuvenation, and fat transfer. Below, you’ll find further information about each procedure.

Tummy tuck surgery

As one of the most popular types of body contouring surgery available in the UK, an abdominoplasty can take various forms. The main objective is to improve the appearance of the midsection, specifically the belly region. There are several popular forms of tummy tuck surgery sought by women, most notably the mini, full or traditional, and fleur de lis tummy tuck. Each is designed to remove fat and tighten loose skin but offer patients different results. It can be completed as a stand-alone form of body contouring surgery, or as part of a wider treatment plan.

Breast rejuvenation surgery

Women often seek surgery to improve the shape or size of the breasts, but for many, it’s the position of the breasts that is the concern. Pregnancy, breastfeeding and weight loss can have an impact on confidence. Breast rejuvenation surgery is often offered to improve lost volume and restore the position of the breasts. In cases where it is appropriate, patients can also choose to undergo a fat transfer procedure alongside a breast uplift, which restores volume at the same time.

Fat transfer surgery

One form of body contouring we expect to see continue to gather popularity is fat transfer surgery. It’s a versatile procedure that allows the patient to move fat from one part of the body to another. This can be a part of breast rejuvenation, where fat can be placed in the upper breast to replace volume lost as a result of breastfeeding, pregnancy or ageing.

Choosing body rejuvenation surgery

In some cases, all three of the body contouring surgery procedures above may be combined to form the most suitable treatment plan. Fat transfer, breast rejuvenation and tummy tucks are all invasive procedures and require careful consideration before committing. Before deciding to go down the surgical route, it’s important to consider all of the non-surgical options. Trusting your consultation and subsequent care with an expert is the best way to discover whether this form of body rejuvenation surgery is suitable for your specific needs and aesthetic goals.

If you’re ready to take the next step, get in touch with Mr Gary Ross to arrange a consultation.

 

 

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More men choosing body rejuvenation surgery

More men choosing body rejuvenation surgery

Men are seeking body rejuvenation surgery to reduce ‘dad bod’ appearance

According to a new article via Mail Online, more men than ever are choosing to undergo cosmetic procedures in order to look and feel more confident.

The report focuses on Australian men but fits with the UK trends as we’ve seen them develop over the last 6-12 months for male patients undergoing cosmetic surgery procedures to reduce fat and appear more ‘lean’.

Medical director Dr. Jayson Oates told the online publication he has noticed a rise in men seeking surgical treatments, with particular interest in core sculpting. Typically body rejuvenation contouring procedures for this area of the body – known as the mid section – include fat reduction or fat transfer and liposuction, as well as non-surgical options such as radiofrequency body sculpting.

This news from across the world seems to be indicative of trends across the UK for men seeking cosmetic intervention too, with nearly three-quarters of males agreeing it’s now acceptable to undergo anti-ageing treatments, as reported by the Daily Telegraph recently.

Mr Ross said: “The news does not surprise me personally, as the demand generally for fat reduction, fat removal and fat transfer treatments have all increased over the last 18 months. I see male and female patients seeking to re-contour their body with cosmetic procedures, and there’s now much less stigma attached to men undergoing body contouring procedures.”

Popular with adults of various ages, body contouring procedures are be used to reshape specific areas of the body; these include fat transfer procedures where fat is taken from one area of the body and reintroduced to another area that requires sculpting or reshaping.

There are multiple reasons for this increase in enquiries, most notably the rise in male celebrity. With popular actors such as Chris Hemsworth, Jason Mamowa and Dwayne Johnson showcasing toned physiques in films, men are becoming more aware of ‘ideals’ and are more keen to ‘look good’ than ever before.

There is arguably a pressure for men to look ‘in shape’ that we’ve not seen so prevalently before, and for those that are not naturally lean, or haven’t always looked after themselves, the gym and diet changes alone may not be enough. This is where cosmetic procedures such as fat reduction and body contouring surgery can be undertaken.

Fat transfer is set to be an increasingly popular form of body rejuvenation surgery for 2018, and with improved techniques and equipment plastic surgeons are able to offer impressive results. There are risks attached to fat removal and fat transfer – as with all forms of cosmetic surgery – although most patients find the results are pleasing.

Cosmetic surgery is not for everyone, and it should not be undertaken lightly. Fat transfer cannot guarantee perfect results, and it’s vital patients (male or female) seriously consider the implications as well as the rewards of undergoing this type of body rejuvenation surgery.

Do you research, make the best choices for you, and only undergo cosmetic surgery if you feel it will improve your wellbeing and self confidence; it’s not for anyone else but you.
More information about body reshaping surgery

For more information about cosmetic surgery procedures designed to contour the body, remove fat, or improve the mid section please contact the team.

Cosmetic surgery trends for 2018

Cosmetic surgery trends for 2018

Mr Gary Ross explains the procedures that led the way in 2017 and what is set to takeover in 2018.

The aesthetic landscape is forever changing, and according to Mr Gary Ross 2018 is set to see some cosmetic surgery procedures decrease in popularity whilst other should rise.

Mummy makeovers, breast augmentation procedures and body rejuvenation surgery led the way in 2017, with non-surgical anti ageing treatments also seeing a surge on popularity. However, it is fat transfer procedures replacing dermal fillers that is set to be the big news for 2018 and beyond.

Multi-procedure treatments such as the mummy makeover were the main cosmetic rise of last year, which combines breast and body procedures within one surgery session to minimise downtime.

Mr Ross says: “Overall non surgical procedures have again increased as patients look for cosmetic treatments with less downtime. This has also led to patients looking for surgical procedures with shorter recovery times.

“Surgically, the biggest rise has been in the mummy makeover procedure, with patients requesting body and breast rejuvenation as a one-stage procedure. Breast augmentation remains the most requested surgical treatment although patients are currently looking for more subtle enhancements than a year ago,” he explains.

As well as body rejuvenation procedures, Gary says there’s been great interest in fat transfer procedures (extracting fat from one part of the body and replacing in the face or another part of the body) which is set to gain further popularity this year thanks to its ability to offer an alternative to dermal fillers in facial rejuvenation.

“Fat transfer is an increasingly popular form of facial and body rejuvenation and will be big news for the coming year. Transferring fat from one part of the body to another isn’t new, but it will become a much more well known treatment as it’s versatile and offers natural results – the biggest draw for patients by far.”

Contrastingly, last year saw a downward trend in patients requesting buttock augmentation (compared to 2016) as patients consider more the pros and cons of the butt augmentation procedure. Also on the decline is patients requesting the ‘fake look’, which more naturally beautiful celebrities rather than glamour girls being popular with female patients.

“In 2018 there will be an increasing trend towards individualised and personalised beauty with a shift away from the ‘one product/treatment fits all’. The shifting focus in skincare brands towards individualised care will lead to a more holistic approach towards cosmetic beauty and advanced treatments too.”

Mr Ross says the commitment to patient empowerment – and ensuring they understand more about the procedures they are choosing to undergo – means 2017 was a positive year for the aesthetics industry.

He says: “The increased awareness of the need for patient safety dominated 2017 and was a positive year for the industry. We are seeing more of a focus on patient empowerment and ensuring patients are fully informed to proceed or not which is imperative for the industry – and most importantly for patients.”

The updated General Medical Council recommendations in relation to consent have highlighted the need for clinicians to ensure patients are fully informed. The adaption of the certification scheme in cosmetic surgery in 2017 through the Royal College of Surgeons has developed the speciality of cosmetic surgery.

“This will allow patients to choose a cosmetic surgeon that is able to fully inform patients regarding the available options so that they are fully empowered to proceed or not,” says Mr Ross.

“Health Education England continues to develop a way forward in the regulation of non surgical treatments and we look forward to further regulatory developments in non surgical treatments in 2018.”

Of his hopes for the cosmetic industry as we enter 2018 Gary says: “I hope that the focus on patient empowerment continues into next year with clinicians focusing increasingly on patient’s interests and placing safety above anything else.”