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.

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.

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 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.

 

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.

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.

How Long Does It Take To Recover From A Tummy Tuck Procedure?

How Long Does It Take To Recover From A Tummy Tuck Procedure?

When it comes to how long it takes to recover from a tummy tuck, every patient will be different. There are many factors to consider before choosing to have body contouring surgery, one of which is the recovery process. Patients will often ask how long it takes to recover from a tummy tuck, and with good reason.

A quick search online will reveal that the first stage of recovery will take around 2 weeks and normal activity can resume after 2 months. However, it’s important to remember that tummy tuck recovery time will be determined by a number of factors. These include the type of surgery, your overall health before the surgery and how well you follow the post-operative advice. Before you can decide if abdominoplasty surgery is right for you, it’s important to find the right surgeon.

It All Starts With a Consultation

All patients will have a consultation before undergoing any kind of abdominoplasty surgery. This informal meeting allows patients to meet their surgeon and ask questions about their procedure.

The question of how long it takes to recover from tummy tuck surgery is one that is likely to crop up. It’s important for the patient to have a thorough understanding of what is involved both before and after surgery. This will allow them to make an informed decision about what type of surgery is best for them.

Types of Abdominoplasty

There are many factors that need to be taken into account before abdominoplasty surgery can take place. Every patient is different, so recovery times will vary. Mini tummy tucks designed to only remove small amounts of skin are less invasive than full abdominoplasty techniques. This can result in a shorter tummy tuck recovery time.

How long it takes to recover from a tummy tuck depends on which body contouring surgery a patient requires. If fat transfer or liposuction is also required, this will also alter the recovery time.

As well as the difference in techniques, health factors must be considered. Patients in good health often heal faster and have fewer complications. It’s advised patients eat well in the lead-up to and after tummy tuck procedures.

Smoking can also be a major factor in tummy tuck surgery recovery time as it can impact the wound healing process. You’ll be advised to quit smoking before any cosmetic surgery procedures regardless.

Take your Surgeon’s Advice

Post-operatively you can improve how long it takes to recover from your tummy tuck by following your surgeons advice and attending your follow up appointments. The follow-up appointments will give you a chance to ask questions about the wound healing process and ensure your surgeon is satisfied with the outcome.

If you’re told to rest and avoid exercise or strenuous activity, take heed and relax. You will heal from surgery much faster and reduce the likelihood of complications such as burst stitches.
Remember, Everyone is Different

While there are certain steps you can take that will help you to recover from tummy tuck surgery faster, it’s important to remember that everyone is different. Every case is unique, and your recovery will depend on multiple factors. The best pre-operative advice is to do your research, follow the advice given to you by your plastic surgeon, and take the time to consider your options.

Book Your Tummy Tuck Consultation

Mr Gary Ross is a plastic surgeon in Manchester who specialises in body contouring procedures such as abdominoplasty. Patients looking to book a tummy tuck consultation should email the clinic to arrange an appointment.

Essential Advice for When To Get A Tummy Tuck

When Is The Best Time to Get a Tummy Tuck? 

Follow these steps if you want to know when to get a tummy tuck

A common question plastic surgeons are asked is when to get a tummy tuck. Whilst there is no one size fits all answer to this question, because every body and patient is different, there are certain guidelines which make abdominoplasty more likely.

How to know when to get a tummy tuck

There are numerous reasons a patient may consider body rejuvenation surgery, such as abdominioplasty procedures. Most patients start their journey after becoming unhappy with the aesthetic appearance of their mid section.

This can include the upper, lower or full abdomen, and is often a result of weight loss or pregnancy causing sagging skin or skin laxity. Deciding when to get a tummy tuck is down to multiple considerations, including emotional and physical well-being, cost, and recovery time.

Body rejuvenation surgery procedures such as abdominoplasty require considerations other than just the aesthetic result. Can you afford the tummy tuck surgery? Do you have time available to recover from the procedure?

Essentially, when to undergo a tummy tuck is down to a patient’s individual circumstances, and a consultation is advised in order to ascertain whether this type of cosmetic surgery is suitable.

Who is suitable for this kind of body rejuvenation surgery?

Both men and women may be suitable for tummy tuck procedures, although they tend to be more sought after by women due to the effects of pregnancy.

Generally, if you are unhappy with the way your abdomen looks because of loose and sagging skin, but you’re in good overall health and at a healthy weight, you could be a candidate for tummy tuck surgery.

Are there reasons not to undergo abdominoplasty?

If you are considering having more children it may be advised to hold off on surgery, as the skin will likely stretch again. The same would be said for breast uplift and breast augmentation procedures.

Similarly, if you’ve lost weight but are not at your goal weight yet, it may be wise to wait in order to get the best results. Body contouring procedures like this are not a weight loss tool but can provide aesthetic improvements once your journey is complete.

Advice about when to get a tummy tuck

If you are considering body contouring procedures but need advice on when to undergo a tummy tuck consider booking a consultation with a plastic surgeon. This provides an excellent opportunity to discuss your needs and goals with an expert.

Mr Ross specialises in in abdominoplasty procedures including the mini tummy tuck, traditional tummy tuck, fleur de lis procedures, and even fat transfer combined with surgery. A tailored approach is the key to exceptional body rejuvenation surgery results.

When to get a tummy tuck will always be down to the individual, but seeking the advice and skills of a specialist in these procedures will always be the best starting point. Contact the team if you’d like to discuss your needs or book a consultation.

Motivations for undergoing cosmetic surgery

What are your motivations for undergoing cosmetic surgery?

 Many patients book a consultation sure that they know which cosmetic procedure/s they want, as well as what they want to achieve.

One of the most important parts of a patient’s journey is meeting with a plastic surgeon and discussing the procedure they are considering.

At this meeting, one of the surgeon’s priorities will be to make sure the patient not only understand what the cosmetic procedure entails, but also why the patient wants to undergo it.

A patient’s motivations for choosing cosmetic surgery should be clear, and they should always be to enhance their self-esteem.

Are you choosing cosmetic surgery for the right reasons?

It might seem like a quick fix to some, but cosmetic surgery is a serious decision that should only be made for the individual. It is the responsibility of the plastic surgeon to turn down any patient he/she believes may be seeking aesthetic enhancement to please someone else or imitate someone, such as a celebrity.

It is not recommended that any man or woman undergoes cosmetic procedures for the benefit of any other person, and a plastic surgeon will likely refuse surgery if he/she believes the potential patient does not have the best motivations.

How realistic are your motivations for undergoing cosmetic surgery?

We often see patients that are seeking cosmetic procedures to ‘look like’ a celebrity; this is unrealistic and unlikely to yield the results they want. For example, Kate Middleton’s nose work for her facial dimensions but that doesn’t mean it will work on yours.

Be realistic about what you are hoping to achieve, and be prepared to potentially be told it’s not attainable or unrealistic.

When is the right time for aesthetic procedures to change the way you look?

This is entirely subjective and depends on a patient’s specific goals and circumstances. Most patients seek the advice of a plastic surgeon if they feel that cosmetic procedures could enhance their self-esteem and overall happiness.

If you’re seeking mummy makeover procedures – such as breast uplift, tummy tuck, or fat transfer – you may find the advice will be to wait until you’ve finished having children.

For others, the decision to undergo surgical procedures to change certain areas of the body or face may be down to age or weight loss. The key is to seek the advice of a plastic surgeon that respects your individual needs and understands your motivations for undergoing anti ageing or body rejuvenation procedures.

Ask yourself these five questions

  1. Why do I want to undergo this procedure?
  2. What do I think I will gain from undergoing this procedure?
  3. Who am I doing this for?
  4. Do I understand the limitations as well as the rewards of cosmetic surgery?
  5. Will I be able to cope if the results are not as I’d hoped?

Getting more information

If you are interested in learning more about a specific cosmetic surgery procedure, such as breast enlargement, tummy tuck surgery, or fat transfer, please contact the team who will be able to provide you with more information.

A consultation is the only way to determine whether or not a specific type of treatment is suitable for you – book one here.

 

Surgery Aftercare: How to Massage Scar Tissue After Surgery

One of the most commonly asked questions regarding healing after a procedure is “how do I massage scar tissue after surgery?” During your pre-op consultation Mr Gary Ross will discuss the healing process with you, and one of the aspects is scar management.

 

Why Do We Get Scars?

Everyone wants to heal quickly with as little scarring as possible, but this is usually inevitable. Scars are marks left on the skin where a wound has healed leaving behind fibrous tissue. Most scars fade in time but never fully disappear.

All plastic surgery comes with risk of scarring and this is detailed in your consultations before undergoing surgical procedures. You can, however, take some steps to improve the way a scar heals and changes over time. One of these is to effectively massage scar tissue after your surgery.

What Is a Scar Tissue Massage?

Simply put, it’s a holistic method of improving the way a scar heals. It can be done at home, rather than in a hospital or clinic, and is relatively straightforward. Your plastic surgeon can demonstrate some specific movements that may aid your understanding.

It’s often suggested after body contouring procedures including tummy tuck surgery, brachioplasty and thigh lifts, and in some cases facelifts.

 

Why Is It Important To Massage Scar Tissue After Surgery?  

Massaging scar tissue after surgery can help to increase blood circulation which in turn can help speed up recovery time. Experts believe this also keeps the tissue pliable, which in turn prevents the scar from reopening or becoming ‘tight’.

The Best Method For Massaging Scar Tissue After Surgery

When and how to massage scar tissue after surgery is something your plastic surgeon will discuss with you before and after your procedure, based on your chosen treatment plan. Below are three basic massage techniques that should be followed:

Use a circular motion

Rubbing the scar in a circular motion helps to promote fluid drainage. This is known as the lymph drainage technique and it helps to reduce any swelling on or around the scar tissue. It helps to drain excess fluid away from the area, which is a common reason for swelling post operation.

Rub the scar

Applying gentle pressure to the scar with your finger, you then rub in one direction in a smoothing action. For bigger scars you could use the palm of your hand to cover a greater area and save time. The purpose of this move is to break up excess collagen and fibrous tissue that may have formed. 

Stretch the skin

Stretching the skin may sound painful, but with gentle outward movements using your thumbs and circular motion this can keep your scar flexible. This is more effective if the scar is located on a joint.

Follow The Advice of Your Plastic Surgeon

While these tips can help to speed up healing time, it’s important to follow your practitioner’s advice for massage scar tissue after surgery. Do not massage deep scars, for example after the Mummy Makeover surgery, until the wounds have completely healed.

Be safe: you may risk reopening the wounds if you attempt to massage scar tissue after surgery too soon, so seek advice from your trusted plastic surgeon before attempting scar tissue massage. Contact Gary Ross and his team for more information on the healing process of your desired procedure.