Self conscious about your saggy neck? Here’s how to treat it

How to improve the appearance of a saggy neck

One of the most commonly requested forms of anti ageing surgery is the neck lift, designed to improve the appearance of a saggy neck.

Unlike facelift surgery that is designed to rejuvenate the appearance of the face, neck lift surgery aims to tighten skin below the jawline. Helping to create a more youthful look, loose neck skin can be firmed and is one of several sagging neck solutions available.

Below you will find some common questions patients ask about this type of skin rejuvenation surgery. If you have any more questions or you wish to book a consultation with Mr Gary Ross visit the contact page.

What is a neck lift?

A neck lift is a surgical procedure designed to tighten and lift the skin of the neck. It is not the same as a facelift, which focuses on rejuvenating skin above the neck.

As we age, the skin begins to droop causing loose neck skin. Once we enter our fifties this often becomes more noticeable, leading some men and women to seek surgery to improve the neck’s appearance.

Usually taking around 2-3 hours, this form of surgery aims to lift the skin, reducing the crepey appearance that can manifest as we get older. Incisions are made and the skin is repositioned and if necessary excess skin is removed.

Who is suitable for neck lift surgery?

Neck lift surgery is most commonly undertaken on patients aged 50-70. Men and women are both suitable for neck rejuvenation procedures.

You must be in good overall health, and be able to demonstrate to a plastic surgery your motivations and goals with regards to undergoing this procedure.

You must also be prepared to put time aside to recover from this surgery. There is healing and recovery time that should be factored into the decision making process, and associated risks that must be carefully considered.

You can find out more about suitability on the treatment page.

Is this type of cosmetic surgery long lasting?

No cosmetic procedure can stop the ageing process, but most patients that undergo neck lift surgery to rejuvenate a ‘saggy neck’ or loose neck skin find the outcome satisfactory.

In the long term, a patient that has undergone surgery to rejuvenate the neck will find they age better moving forward than if they had not undergone the procedure.

Can a neck lift be combined with a facelift?

Yes. It is quite common for patients to combine facelift surgery and neck lift surgery. Sometimes the overall effect is best if both cosmetic procedures are undertaken, and surgeries can be performed at the same time to minimise recovery time.

Are there non-surgical sagging neck solutions?

There are non surgical treatment designed to offer sagging neck solutions, but these have limited effects. They rarely offer the same satisfaction as a neck lift, and in the long term they don’t tend to provide a long lasting cure for a saggy neck.

Who should I trust to perform surgery to correct loose neck skin?

You should pick a plastic surgeon you trust, and who you believe can offer you the best results. If you would like to speak to Mr Ross about your potential facial rejuvenation surgery options you can find out more about his qualifications here.

Where can I get more information?

Visit the neck lift surgery page for a detailed overview of the procedure. You can also see Mr Ross’s case studies here. Further questions and answers about this form of skin rejuvenation surgery may provide you with more information – you can view questions and answers here.

 

Rise in young patients aged 18-34 seeking cosmetic surgery reported

More young people than ever are considering undergoing cosmetic procedures

Over 50% of women and 39% of men aged 18 to 34 would consider a cosmetic procedure, according to new research released last week.

The survey, produced by Mintel, offered a conflicted look at the aesthetics industry, with data suggested that while British people under 35 are generally happy with their appearance, around half are also considering plastic surgery.

The research

The research suggests that although young patients have limited experiences with undergoing cosmetic surgery, they are open to the possibility of undergoing cosmetic procedures at a later date.

While just 10% of those surveyed had undergone any form of cosmetic procedure, 52% of women in the lower age bracket (18-34) were ‘interested’ in cosmetic surgery.

In the report, nearly half of British men and women agreed that social media has made getting both surgical and non-surgical procedures more commonplace. This is no doubt largely down to celebrity influence.

Body contouring popularity on the up

The popular procedures that young men and women showed interest in included body contouring surgery. Procedures such as liposuction and tummy tuck surgery topped the wish list, with data revealing the waistline and abdomen area to be the body part most disliked.

Jack Duckett, Consumer Lifestyles Analyst for the company supplying the research, said:

“Brits are generally happy with their appearance, presenting a crucial challenge for an industry that is centred on helping people to change how they look. However, there is scope for operators in the cosmetic procedures market to appeal to a wider audience by moving away from the current association with drastic image changes and to instead highlight how procedures can safeguard people’s best features for the future.”

So what does all this mean?

We know there has been a small decline in cosmetic surgery over the last year, but the procedures that are popular – for example body contouring surgery – only seem to increase.

This is partly down to better/less invasive surgical techniques (such as fat transfer) providing more pleasing results, but also accessibility. As the report demonstrates, there is no denying the role of social media platforms in the decision making process of patients these days.

It is not uncommon to have a patient arrive for a consultation armed with photos from Instagram or Snapchat; these usually involve a celebrity or influencer. Whilst this isn’t unusual there are some important points to be addressed.

– What you see online isn’t always the truth

It’s easy to look at celebrities or fitness bloggers and assume they simple just look that way. In reality the use of filters, photoshop and even apps designed to nip and tuck the body and face are used. Don’t be fooled into thinking these images are an entirely accurate representation.

 – Celebrities are paid to show you a certain aesthetic

In many cases, celebrities and social influencers are paid or rewarded for being a spokesperson for a brand or even a surgeon. Why trust the word or advice of someone you’ve never spoken to without doing some research?

– Realistic expectations are important

What works for one person won’t work for another. Just because a famous face has the lips or body shape you find attractive it doesn’t mean this will work for you. Be prepared to be turned away from a plastic surgeon’s clinic if he/she doesn’t believe you have the best motivations and realistic expectations.

Where can I get advice?

If you are considering cosmetic surgery procedures – such as body contouring, fat removal / fat transfer, tummy tuck surgery or breast augmentation – or you would like advice about how to pick a plastic surgeon please contact us today.

 

Choosing a surgeon for your breast surgery

How to find the best surgeon for your breast surgery

Undergoing breast surgery is not something that should be undertaken lightly. It can be a daunting experience, and many considerations need to be made beforehand.

The most important decision you will make is your plastic surgeon. Choosing the surgeon who will perform your surgery, as well as accompany you on your journey post operatively, cannot be rushed or underestimated.

Whether you choose a breast augmentation, breast reduction, breast uplift or breast asymmetry surgery, picking the best plastic surgeon for the job is vital.

What makes a good plastic surgeon?

As well as be a highly skilled expert, a good plastic surgeon should listen to your concerns, offer constructive advice, act profession at all times, and manage expectations.

It’s important when choosing surgeon that you do your research. Find out what their background is, what they specialise in, and how often they perform your chosen procedure. This is all helpful in allowing you to make an informed decision.

Does it make a difference if my surgeon is part of a safety organisation?

Your prospective surgeon should be part of at least one professional organisation. BAAPS and BAPRAS are the most common. You should be able to find out this information on their website.

This membership ensures your surgeon is operating to the highest standards, is ethical, and can perform in their field to the highest standards.

Is picking breast specialist the best plan?

In some cases, particularly if the surgery is complex, choose a breast surgeon specifically can prove positive. They have a deep understanding of the tissues and structure of the breasts, and some patients feel more confident trusting their surgery to a specialist.

How do I know I’ve found the right surgeon?

You should feel comfortable with them, and believe they understand what you wish to achieve by undergoing breast surgery. You should feel confident in their abilities and believe they can offer you the highest standards of care.

It’s also a good idea to make sure you’re comfortable with the team at the hospital or clinic too. They will likely be part of your recovery process.

What should I ask at the consultation?

The consultation is deigned to offer you a chance to speak directly to a surgeon, and discuss your goals and motivations for undergoing the procedure. Some patients come with photos to demonstrate their points.

This is an opportunity to discuss the procedure in detail and get an understanding of what is involved before, during and after breast surgery. Ask about the specifics of the procedure, make sure you understand the risks and complications, and find out how best to recover safely and quickly.

What will they expect of me?

You surgeon will expect you to be honest and open at the consultation. Your motivations for undergoing surgery need to be clear, and you’re expected to provide an honest account of your medical history.

What negative signs should I look out for?

If you feel forced, rushed or coerced into undergoing plastic surgery you should find someone else. If a surgeon appears uninformed or uninterested in your specific goals or concerns this should also be a warning sign. Trust your instincts.

Book a consultation

Booking a consultation is quick and simple. Please follow the instructions via the contact us page. You can find out more about Mr Gary Ross on the about us page.

Correcting lopsided breasts with breast surgery

Tired of uneven boobs or lopsided breasts? These are your treatment options

For women with lopsided breasts life can be a challenge. Having different breast sizes or one breast bigger than the other can, in some cases, be detrimental to one’s self esteem.

Is it common to have lopsided breasts?

It is thought that up to 45 per cent of women have one breast that is at least a cup size different to the other. We call this breast asymmetry. It is not dangerous or painful, but it can be upsetting.

It’s worth noting that breast size can fluctuate, especially during the menstrual cycle, so when we talk about breast asymmetry we mean long term physical disproportion.

Why do some women have lopsided breasts?

All women have some degree of breast unevenness. There are several reasons why a woman may have lopsided breasts, different breast sizes or one breast bigger than the other.

Some women find that once they’ve finished puberty their breasts are uneven; some find their breasts change during pregnancy and after breast feeding don’t return to their original shape or size.

Breasts can also become lopsided or uneven after breast augmentation surgery. No breast surgery will make boobs appear completely symmetrical – this is almost impossible. Having said the results can be remarkable and life changing.

What counts as having lopsided breasts?

While most women have one breast bigger than the other, in most cases this difference is negligible. It often goes unnoticed or isn’t something that bothers the person. For others, however, the size difference can be traumatic, leaving the person with low self esteem and body hang-ups.

It’s understandable, but can be rectified with cosmetic breast surgery. Procedures such as breast asymmetry surgery can be offered, with our without the use of a silicone implant. This will depend on the severity of the lop-sidedness.

Does having different breast sizes or one breast bigger than the other affect my health?

No. It’s more a matter of self esteem and body image. Most patients that request breast asymmetry surgery are unhappy with their over breast aesthetic, and believe cosmetic surgery is the best solution. 

Can lopsided breasts be fixed without cosmetic surgery?

If the patient has a noticeable difference in breast sizes, or one breast bigger than the other, cosmetic surgery is usually the most reliable and long term solution.

Whilst bra choice can help, this is only a quick fix; physically the problem remains. Lopsided breasts will not rectify themselves or become even of their own accord.

What happens during surgery to correct uneven breasts?

  • Booking a consultation is the first step to improving the appearance of lopsided breasts.
  • A surgeon will assess the extent of the different breast sizes and make a recommendation based on the findings.
  • It may be that a breast reduction is offered, to reduce the size of the larger breast. In other cases a breast augmentation with implants may be used to even up a smaller breast to a larger one.
  • Surgery is not to be undertaken lightly, and you must take into consideration the risks and complications that can occur, as well as the benefits.
  • It is not possible to guarantee perfect symmetry after surgery, but most patient agree the result exceeds their expectations compared to their former aesthetic.

Get more information

To get more information about breast surgery to correct lopsided breasts and uneven breasts please contact the clinic reception team today and book a consultation.

 

 

Everything you need to know about the botox brow lift

Have you heard about the botox brow lift?

We’ve seen much in the beauty press recently about the rise of the botox brow lift – but what is it?

In today’s post we offer you a quick run down on what the botox eyebrow lift is and how it can benefit you.

What is a botox brow lift?

Unlike facelift surgery or brow lift surgery, this cosmetic treatment is non surgical. Botox is a medical toxin that is strategically placed around the eyes, most commonly above the eyes, in order to lift the brow.

The other benefits of using botox around the eyes can include improving droopy eyelids and lifting the eyes. A wider eyed appearance is just one of the numerous benefits this kind of facial rejuvenation treatment can offer.

Who is suitable for a botox brow lift?

The botox eye lift or brow lift is suitable for men and women who want to improve the appearance of the eyes and upper face. It’s more common for older patients, although some younger patients choose to use this as a preventative measure.

Patients must be in good overall health and have realistic expectations of what this kind of facial rejuvenation treatment can provide.

This is not a substitute for facelift surgery and brow lift surgery. If you have extensive facial ageing signs you may need procedures that have a more prominent and longer term effect.

Are the results long lasting?

Results last 3-6 months but you will need follow up treatments in order to maintain the results.

Is it safe to use botox around eyes?

Yes, although it should be used sparingly and with caution. This is an injectable treatment so there is some risk of bruising and reaction.

The aim of the botox eyebrow lift is to subtly lift and smooth the upper face, in particular the eye area. It’s not a substitute for a facelift or brow lift surgery, but it can provide subtle enhancement.

Can it improve eyelids as well as the brow?

If you’re unhappy with a droopy eyelid botox can provide some relief. Using injectable cosmetic treatments have many uses and rejuvenating the skin around the eyes by lifting it and smoothing it are just two of them.

Is this type of treatment painful?

Undergoing any form of treatment with injectables such as botox under the eyes may come with some mild discomfort. However, this is minimal and is managed with topical anaesthetic creams.

What’s the recovery process like?

It’s entirely non surgical, so you are free to leave post-treatment. Results can be seen quickly, although the full extent of the result may take several weeks to show.

You may have some mild swelling or bruising, but this is minor and will disappear within a few hours in most cases.

Booking a consultation

If you’re interested in learning more about a botox brow lift, or you wish to discuss facial rejuvenation treatments including surgical options, contact us. Our team of experts will help you discover the information you need to make an informed decision.

Are selfies driving UK cosmetic surgery requests?

UK cosmetic surgery is on the up but are social media apps and selfies to blame?

In the UK cosmetic surgery is still going strong, especially when it comes to procedures such as rhinoplasty.

With the growth of social media platforms such as Instagram and Snapchat – that focus primarily on the use of photographs – in turn facial surgery has increased.

Selfies and surgery in the news

Just last week, an American journal revealed that selfies (self taken photos) distort the proportions on the face. The most notable difference came to noses, which in some cases appeared up to 30 per cent larger than in reality.

This is an alarming piece of research which not only details that the selfie obsession is booming, but that it’s genuinely affecting the way patients view their appearance.

It’s all about the angle

Pictures taken up close to the face distort the proportions of features, according to the study, leading prospective patients to see concerns that may not actually be there.

The angle a photo is taken, as well as how close the phone or camera is to the face, can have a dramatic impact on the result.

This is all in turn creating concern amongst patients, most specifically female patients, who are becoming concerned with physical issues that are fictional.

Being realistic

When we consult with patients, the priority is to listen to their needs and motivations, then evaluate whether undergoing cosmetic surgery is the right and advisable conclusion.

In some cases we see patients that do not require cosmetic surgery, but believe they need certain procedures because of photographs they’ve seen of themselves.

Often this includes procedures such as rhinoplasty and nose job surgery, which is a common procedure requested by patients after a photograph has given them a new angle to view themselves.

Managing expectations

Whatever the procedure, whether it’s face surgery or body surgery, every patient visits for a consultation with a goal in mind. The key is making sure the motivations are clear and reasonable.

The proportions offered in photographs, selfies and apps are not always representative of the truth. It’s important to manage expectations before and after form of cosmetic procedure; if you’re not suitable for a specific procedure you will not be treated.

What are your motivations?

Having clear motivations for undergoing cosmetic surgery is vital. You should only undergo procedures for yourself, and not for the benefit of anyone else.

Using photos to show your surgeon what you are worried about or want to change can be helpful, but don’t forget they are only one marker.

Be prepared to speak about your real motivations for undergoing cosmetic surgery, and that you may not be eligible for the chosen procedure.

Get more information

Booking a consultation is the best way to determine whether or not you are suitable for surgery. You can use the contact pages to get in touch, and our staff will help guide you through the consultation process.

Responsible cosmetic surgery and managing expectations

Is there such a thing as too much plastic surgery?

One of the most common issues we see when looking at celebrities is the overuse of cosmetic surgery.

It’s one thing to have a discreet nip and tuck, but it’s quite another to be left looking like a totally different person.

With the likes of TV personality Katie Price recently being featured in the media for her ever changing face, today’s blog is on managing patient expectations.

We ask the question: “Is there such a thing as too much plastic surgery?”

When is it time to undergo cosmetic procedures?

Choosing to undergo cosmetic surgery is an entirely personal choice. It should only be undertaken for the individual, with the sole purpose of improving their self esteem.

If a patient is deemed unsuitable for a procedure, he or she should be turned away by a plastic surgeon. This is especially true if a patient has already undergone extensive cosmetic procedures.

The same should apply if the treatment they seek is deemed inappropriate or unnecessary. This can also be the case for reversing previous work, especially to the face.

How do you manage patient expectations?

One of the most important aspects of the consultation process is managing a patient’s expectations. What can be achieved and how good the results are likely to be is based on medical history and the end goal.

The results are not always as the patient hopes or expects, and it’s important to manage expectations throughout. For some patients, the goal may never be truly realised, and this is especially the case for those with body dysmorphia.

Celebrity case study – Katie Price

A good example of the above is former model Katie Price, who has openly undergone many facial procedures (as well as body procedures) over the years.

Since launching her career twenty years ago, Katie has undergone a dramatic transformation, having chosen to have rhinoplasty surgery, a facelift (despite being under 40), cheek augmentation and many forms of facial fillers and fat transfer.

When we compare her old modelling photographs to her appearance now, it’s hard to see much similarity. Her features have moved and changed beyond recognition is some cases, and she has an appearance that undeniably looks fake.

Too much plastic surgery

Whilst Katie has always been proud of her appearance and doesn’t try to hide the cosmetic surgery overhaul she’s undertaken, her features are now quite distorted and she no longer looks ‘natural’.

This is not the aesthetic generally sought after by patients, and it’s notably one most surgeons would rather avoid.

Too much cosmetic surgery can leave patients looking unnatural – which is the opposite of what it’s designed to achieve.

Making the best choices

The decision to undergo cosmetic surgery ultimately belongs to the individual, however it’s the responsibility of the plastic surgeon to assess suitability and manage expectations.

If you want to know whether you’re a candidate for an anti ageing procedure such as facelift surgery, or you wish to discuss undergoing further procedures to change the face shape such as fat transfer, book a consultation.

Please be aware that if you’re not deemed suitable for a specific procedure, you will not be granted treatment.

Patient safety and wellbeing is paramount and managing expectations is vital.

Who is behind the rise of the mummy makeover?

Mummy makeover procedures are at a high – and celebrities may be the reason

Some women choose to undergo cosmetic procedures designed specifically to tackle the issues left behind by pregnancy.

This type of surgery usually falls under the mummy makeover category. You can learn more about this via the treatment page if you so wish.

The rise in trends

We’ve always seen patients seeking cosmetic surgery in order to improve the appearance of the mid section and breasts, which can change as a result of carrying a child and breast feeding.

When two or more procedures are combined, such as a tummy tuck and breast uplift, this would likely be classed as a mummy makeover.

But recently we’ve seen a rise in the numbers of women seeking the skills of plastic surgeons to rejuvenate their bodies post pregnancy.

Why is this? We think it may be due to the rise in famous ‘yummy mummies’ and the use of social media.

Do celebrities make a difference?

When a celebrity becomes a mother we see the baby, as well as her post-baby body, all over social media channels. Apps like Instagram, which are photo-led, show a version of parenthood that may come as a surprise to other new mums. Most notably when it comes to snapping back into shape.

The mummy makeover movement has gained momentum with the likes of Cheryl Tweedy, who gave birth just 10 months ago, being snapped looking remarkably toned and slim.

And there’s no doubt these women are behind the trend for normal women to seek cosmetic surgery to keep up. 

In the news

The Daily Mail spoke to Mr. Gary Ross in February about the rise in mummy makeovers, which can include two or more forms of body rejuvenation surgery and body contouring procedures.

He told the newspaper:

“The term “mummy makeover” is increasingly being used in cosmetic practice. It is a term that is often applied to the combination of body and breast rejuvenation surgery.

‘This can include Body-jet fat transfer to reshape the midsection, and we see mums of Cheryl’s age choosing this to get back in shape after having children.

“When considering a mummy makeover it is best to be at your ideal weight and have completed your family.”

Making the right decision for you

Someone should only undergo cosmetic surgery if they believe it will improve their life. No one should choose procedures or trends based on what their favourite celebrity has to say.

Often images on social media have been edited in order to appear better or ‘improved’ and the representation of the person may not always be accurate.

If you’d like to book a consultation to discuss your needs, this is a great opportunity to learn more about body contouring surgery and how it may be helpful to you.

Use the contact pages if you wish to book a consultation or speak to a member of the team about mummy makeovers and body reshaping surgery.