Category: News

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.

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.

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.

 

 

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.

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.

 

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.

 

The most popular body contouring surgery procedures being requested

The popularity of body contouring surgery continues to grow year on year. Most recently, it was reported by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) that many modern cosmetic surgical procedures are on the rise.

These include liposuction and tummy tuck surgery, often as part of a mummy makeover. This week we look at four of the most popular forms of body contouring surgery, and discuss the benefits of seeking the advanced aesthetic procedures.

Liposuction

According to the ASAPS report, liposuction procedures are up 16 per cent. Whilst traditional lipo procedures can be uncomfortable and require extended recovery time, newer techniques mean faster healing times.

Mr Ross uses Body-jet to remove unwanted fat from the body. It can be used on the abdomen, thighs, buttocks and more. It’s often combined with other surgery to form part of a mummy makeover.

Tummy tuck surgery

Designed to rejuvenate the mid section, there are various types of abdominoplasty surgery. Known widely as tummy tuck surgery, this is a flexible type of body rejuventation surgery often undertaken after extreme weight loss or pregnancy.

It’s also popular with men, as well as women, and can have a dramatic effect on the way a patient looks and feels about their body.

Fat transfer

There has undoubtedly been a rise in patients seeking a fat transfer procedure that offers maximum results with minimal downtime.

Specialising in body rejuvenation surgery and mummy makeover procedures, plastic surgeon Mr Ross 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.

Mummy Makeover Surgery

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 offers body contouring surgery in Manchester for women seeking to rejuvenate their bodies after pregnancy. Combined procedures above form the mummy makeover.

The mummy makeover combines surgical procedures including a breast uplift surgery (mastopexy with or without breast implants) and some form of tummy tuck surgery (abdominoplasty) procedure to remove excess skin and tighten muscles below the surface. Tummy tuck surgery can include mini or full versions of this procedure.

More information

Find out more about body contouring and ask us the questions you need answering. Make the best choices by being informed and asking for advice from the experts.

Body rejuvenation itself is a broad term used to describe a wide selection of surgical procedures that can help patients feel more confident in their bodies after pregnancy and/or substantial weight loss.

If you would like more information about any of the body contouring procedures above please contact the team. You can find consultation information via the contact us pages.

Experts see a surge in women wanting to correct botched treatments

Mr Gary Ross, who consults from the BMI The Alexendra Hospital in Cheadle, sys he’s seen a rise in the number of women asking for corrective surgery after undergoing unsatisfactory treatments elsewhere.

Most requested body contouring procedures explained

Female patients often visit Mr Ross seeking body contouring procedures. These are surgical procedures designed to rejuvenate the body by reshaping or contouring a specific area.

There are various types of body contouring surgeries that can help women especially. If pregnancy or weight loss has affected the way a certain part of the body looks, surgery may be a way to improve the issue.

Here we have six of the most requested body reshaping procedures requested by women. You can read more detail about each of them on the “Body” treatment pages.

– Tummy tuck

A tummy tuck is also known as an abdominoplasty. This is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and tighten and tone the appearance of the tummy. There are several types of abdominoplasty including the mini tummy tuck (for the lower abdomen only) and the full tummy tuck (for the whole mid section).

– Fat removal

Fat removal and liposuction are body contouring procedures that take unwanted fat from the body. They can be used alone or as part of a body rejuvenation programme with surgical procedures like the tummy tuck. Mr Ross uses Body-jet fat removal which is water-assisted, making it less traumatic to the surrounding tissues.

– Fat transfer

If you need to move fat from one area to another, for example the waist to hips, fat transfer could be the best option. It’s body reshaping without the need for silicone implants or foreign substances, making it popular with those seeking natural results.

– Arm lift

Brachioplasty surgery is designed to reshape the upper arms. Known as an arm lift, this procedure is ideal for women that have lost a large amount of weight and been left with sagging skin. Also it’s popular with older patients who have arm skin that has lost elasticity due to the ageing process. It usually forms part of body lift surgery too.

– Thigh lift

Like an arm lift, the thigh lift is designed to remove excess skin and lift the overall appearance of the upper legs. It’s popular with women that have lost a substantial amount of weight, and is often combined with other body contouring procedures as part of a full body lift.

– Mummy makeover

The mummy makeover involves two or more surgical procedures. In most cases this is a breast rejuvenation procedure and a body contouring surgery. For example, a breast uplift and a tummy tuck can be undertaken at the same time to lift the breasts and tighten the skin of the abdomen.

Book a consultation and get more information

All patients are different and what works for one will not be suitable for another. You’re best to book a consultation with Mr Ross to determine whether any of the body contouring procedures above are suitable for you.

You can find out more information about body reshaping surgery via the treatment pages. Don’t forget you can follow our social media pages and learn about Mr Ross here.

The important questions to ask before undergoing breast rejuvenation surgery

If you are considering breast rejuvenation surgery the first step you’ll be making is booking a consultation. Mr Gary Ross is a leading breast surgery expert, consulting in Manchester.

In this week’s blog he reveals nine questions you should ask before deciding on cosmetic surgery, most specifically breast rejuvenation surgery.

How will this procedure benefit me?

It’s important you ask for the details of what your chosen procedure can do for you, especially when it comes to breast rejuvenation surgery. What are the benefits of undergoing a breast augmentation or breast uplift procedure? Ask how the cosmetic procedure will benefit you personally.

Is this cosmetic procedure right for me?

Not all breast rejuvenation procedures will be suitable, so it’s important to make sure the surgery you choose is right for your specific needs. If you want to lift sagging breasts a breast augmentation alone is unlikely to be enough. Be clear in discussing your goals and what you want to achieve before committing to a procedure.

Discuss your concerns and what you want to achieve honestly, and don’t be afraid to ask whether breast rejuvenation surgery is suitable for you in the context of your life and plans for the future.

How much will this cost in total?

All procedures cost different amounts; a breast reduction will not cost the same as a breast enlargement with fat transfer. Always be clear on the overall cost of treatment. Don’t forget this cost should include hospital fees and the time of an anaesthesiologist as well as your plastic surgeon.

Who will perform my surgery?

It’s perfectly reasonable to ask who will be performing your surgery. Patients often find at chain clinics that the person they consult with is not then the person performing the surgery. Ask who specifically will be performing your breast rejuvenation surgery.

How do I prepare for my surgery?

Asking how you can best prepare for surgery is a good way to make sure you have the best experience possible. You should be prepared to give up smoking and consider other health factors in advance of breast rejuvenation surgery.

What happens during my surgery?

It’s a good idea to ask more about what the surgery entails. Research your procedure and take some questions to your consultation if there’s any specifics you’d like to know. It’s an invasive form of surgery, so it’s important you understand what your chosen breast rejuvenation surgery involves.

What happens after my surgery?

Knowing what to expect after a cosmetic procedure is part of the process when it comes to safe surgery. Be aware of what you will need to do regarding leaving hospital and recovering at home. Ask about taking time off, how to care for your surgical scars, and when you’ll be required to revisit for check ups.

What is the recovery like?

In some cases breast rejuvenation surgery can require some weeks off work. Asking how the recovery will affect your day to day life is important so you can plan around the down time. This is a good time to ask about healing and pain management too.

What happens if I’m unhappy with the results?

It’s quite rare for a patient to be unhappy with the results of cosmetic breast surgery, but in this event it’s good to know where you stand. Ask your surgeon about the risks and complications of surgery, as well as what to do if you’re unsatisfied with the results.

Get in touch

For more information on planning your breast rejuvenation surgery please contact the team. You can book a consultation here if you wish to discuss your needs with Mr Ross.