First impressions make a difference in our society and our faces convey much about who we are. Many men and women seek to enhance or restore their facial appearance to a more youthful and rejuvenated look in step with who they are on the inside.

The following are questions that I am frequently asked by men and women considering Facelift Surgery.

1. I don’t want to look strange or unnatural – is this avoidable in Facelift surgery?

In the hands of an experienced and talented Cosmetic Surgeon, natural and rejuvenated results are achievable with Facelift surgery.

Often the images that spring to mind when thinking about facelift surgery are the well known celebrities that look like they’ve spent a month in a wind tunnel and have distorted and unbalanced faces pulled too tightly and unnaturally. Other looks most patients wish to avoid are known as “moonface” or “catwoman”.

A skilled and knowledgeable Cosmetic Surgeon is able to deliver results that are natural and long lasting, taking potentially 10-15 years from your apparent age. Thorough preparation involving repeated consultations between the Cosmetic Surgeon and the patient are crucial in establishing a positive rapport, trust and a consensus as to appropriate expectations regarding the results and a foundation for an optimal outcome.

2. What should I expect from the recovery process from Facelift surgery?

Immediately after surgery, the Cosmetic Surgeon will apply dressings and bandaging that require replacing on a daily basis for the first two weeks. A bandage that wraps around the head, under the chin and over the ears, should be worn for 24 hours for the first six weeks after surgery, and then at night or at home for another 6 weeks. Stitches inserted by the Cosmetic Surgeon are usually removed within 1 – 2 weeks, depending on your healing and recovery.

Initial pain and discomfort is addressed with pain relief prescribed by the Cosmetic Surgeon and Anaesthetist. Initial bruising should resolve within one to two weeks after surgery. Swelling takes longer to resolve; up to 6 to 12 weeks.

You need to sleep on your back for approximately 6 weeks, supported by pillows at your sides to prevent you from turning on your side.

Improvements in your appearance can be noticeable as early as a week to two weeks, but optimal results are not seen until further down the track in your recovery as swelling resolves and the tissues heal.

3. Will the scars from the Facelift surgery be visible?

Again, this is depending on the skill and technique of the Cosmetic Surgeon (and one reason it pays to do your research and seek several opinions prior to choosing a Surgeon to perform your surgery). In the right hands, your incisions are carefully placed and hidden to avoid detection.

4. Does facelift surgery include lifting the eyes?

Facelift surgery addresses the loose and sagging skin and tissue of the face. Surgery to the eyes, known as Blepharoplasty, can be performed on either or both the upper and lower eyelids. This is often performed in conjunction with a Facelift to achieve the overall refreshed appearance sought by the patient. Facelift surgery may also be combined with neck lift surgery, specifically addressing the sagging skin and tissue on the neck area. A Browlift may also be recommended in conjunction with Facelift surgery to achieve a lift of the forehead and eye area.

These different procedures will be discussed with you at length by the Cosmetic Surgeon in light of what you want to achieve, your present appearance, and what procedure/s is/are most suitable to achieve your goals.

5. How long does Facelift surgery take?

Facelift surgery can take anywhere between 2 and 4 hours depending on what your particular surgery entails. It is usually performed under general anaesthetic.

6. I’ve heard of thread lift surgery for the face; is this a better and less invasive option to Facelift surgery?

In short this is not a better or less Invasive procedure.

Thread lift surgery involves the insertion of threads into the facial tissue which are then pulled tightly in an attempt to lift the skin and tissue. The threads have barbs placed along their length in order to provide grip on the tissues.

Unfortunately, whilst thread lifts are heavily promoted and marketed, patients who have pursued the procedure are inevitably unhappy with the results. This is partly due to thread lifts being performed on many patients who are not suitable candidates for the procedure. The procedure is also performed by medical practitioners who are not adequately qualified in performing surgery and lack a thorough understanding of the facial tissues, underlying muscles, nerve supply and blood supply.

Many of these patients then seek Facelift surgery to achieve the results they were originally seeking. Unfortunately, this poses significant difficulty for the Cosmetic Surgeon performing a Facelift as the threads are extremely difficult and time consuming to remove, adding time and complication to the Facelift procedure.

7. Will I require further procedures after the Facelift surgery?

No facelift surgery can offer an absolutely perfect result, and usually the Cosmetic Surgeon will discuss with you prior to surgery what further procedures may be required following surgery to enhance or maintain the results. For example, Dermal Fillers may be recommended after surgery to add volume to areas of the face such as the cheeks or lips to enhance a youthful appearance. Another recommendation may be the use of a Cosmetic Facial peel to resurface and rejuvenate the skin. Only ever pursue further facial treatments on the advise and recommendation of your Cosmetic Surgeon.

Looking after your skin and face will contribute to long lasting results. Discussing with your Cosmetic Surgeon your ongoing skincare regime and other treatments is important to achieving and maintaining the best results.

The over-riding message if you are considering Facelift surgery is to do your research, seek several surgical opinions. Choose a fully qualified  and experienced Cosmetic Surgeon with previous results that appeal to you and with whom you can build confidence and trust.

For a Face Lift or Neck Lift consultation contact Dr. Bobby Kumar at the Bare Aesthetics Cosmetic Surgery Clinics in Sydney or Adelaide on (02) 9571 4850 or 0430 491 009 or send us a request at www.bareaesthetics.com.au/contact-us.php

The Top Cosmetic Surgery procedures for Men

Typically cosmetic surgery is normally associated with women having procedures such as Breast Augmentation, breast reductions and liposuction. If we discuss men having cosmetic surgery we normally think about well known male actors and celebrities such as Sylvester Stallone, Michael Jackson and Mickey Rourke. These men are not great examples of natural and aesthetic cosmetic surgery results. However; men do have great Cosmetic surgery results it is just that we hear about the extreme and ridiculous results performed on the infamous celebrities.

Statistics released in March 2011 by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) demonstrate that many more men are now becoming more conscious about their appearances and maintaining their appearances that they are now considering some form of Cosmetic surgery. The statistics revealed that the overall increase in cosmetic procedures in men increased by 2% in 2010 when compared to the previous year. Some procedures in particular like Facelift surgery rose by 14% and Liposuction increased by 7% in 2010.

The ASPS statistics for 2010 show that men underwent an increased number of Surgical and minimally invasive procedures; the increase in surgical procedures grew faster than the traditional minimally invasive treatments.

The increase in men having cosmetic surgery may be related to a number of factors; such as an increase in the general fashion and cosmetic industry and therefore an increase in the participation of men in requiring cosmeceuticals and that their requirements do not seem to be unusual or the domain of women. Also with the changes in workplace perceptions and socially men may feel the need to have a rejuvenated and youthful appearance as well as being fit and healthy. Men and women have shifted the age for when they are choosing to have children. As such men may feel that they are now ready, mature and financially capable enough to make the decision to have Cosmetic plastic Surgery.

Interestingly once the minimally invasive procedures such as Botox® or dermal fillers were popular with men. It is apparent that as men age, so do the tissues and the addition of gravity means that the tissues sag. Consequently a much more comprehensive surgical procedure is required and is necessary to lift and rejuvenate the body to show any significant improvement.

Top Ten Cosmetic Procedures for Men (as an increase in percentage)

The list comprises the fastest growing cosmetic procedures between 2009 and 2010.

1. Facelift – 14% increase

2. Otoplasty (Ear Surgery) – 11% increase

3. Dermal Fillers – 10% increase

4. Botox® – 9% increase

5. Liposuction – 7% increase

6. Male breast reduction (Gynaecomastia) – 6% increase

7. Eyelid surgery (Blepharoplasty) – 4% increase

8. Dermabrasion – 4% increase

9. Laser hair removal -4% increase

10. Laser vein treatment – 4% increase

Top Ten Cosmetic Procedures for Men in 2010 (By Volume)

The top 5 Cosmetic Surgical Procedures (Invasive)

1) Rhinoplasty (Nose surgery) - 64,000
2) Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty) – 31,000
3) Liposuction/Liposculpture – 24,000
4) Male Breast Reduction (Gynaecomastia surgery) – 18,000
5) Hair Transplantation – 13,000

The Top Five Cosmetic Minimally-Invasive Procedures

1) Botox ® – 337,000
2) Laser Hair Removal – 165,000
3) Microdermabrasion – 158,000
4) Chemical Peel – 90,000
5) Dermal Fillers – 78,000

The majority of cosmetic surgery clinics show that whilst there are high profile men having cosmetic surgery, clearly many more men are “average” males who are looking to improve their looks and therefore to look as good as they feel. Many of these men are normally seen as tough male role models such as firemen, plumbers and bricklayers.

There are the men who are still quite physically active, perhaps approaching retirement who still wish to have a rejuvenated appearance to go along with their active lifestyle. It is not unusual in my practice to perform a combined Facelift, neck lift as well as an eyelid lift for mature men seeking to reverse the effects of the sun, genetic aging and gravity and to create a rejuvenated face and neck.

After having performed the cosmetic surgery procedure, it is not uncommon to observe a new invigorated male patient. The procedure itself appears to have provided a greater sense of self confidence; male breast reduction is such an example. Many males with large breasts commonly known as “man boobs” are often reluctant to go to the beach or engage in any social activity where they need to remove their shirt.

Following male breast reduction surgery most patients are motivated to join gyms to improve their general health, wellbeing and fitness levels. They have an increased desire to lose weight and build muscle to match their improved chest/breast area.

Many of these men have very supporting partners often of similar age, which is contrary to the popular perception that these are men with much younger partners. In my practice many of these women will not have had any cosmetic procedures or surgery, and so this has not been a natural or expected transition for their male partner to consider cosmetic surgery. It is a choice that these men make to help them maintain a rejuvenated, natural and aesthetically pleasing appearance for themselves and sometimes for their partners as well.

If you are looking for an experienced and skilled Cosmetic Surgeon who performs male cosmetic surgery procedures and non-invasive procedures such as Botox® and dermal fillers then contact Dr. Bobby Kumar today on (02) 9571 4850 or 0430 491 009 for an appointment at the Bareaesthetics Cosmetic Surgery clinics (Sydney,Port Macquarie or Adelaide).

Bare Aesthetic Cosmetic Surgery Clinics in Sydney, Adelaide and Port Macquarie

A person’s body has become such a talked about and noticed thing. One cannot look in the mirror without thinking of something wrong with their body. Those patients considering Augmentation, enhancement, rejuvenation or correction of their body there is Cosmetic Surgery.

Cosmetic Surgery offers the ability to produce aesthetic and natural results; however, patients need to have realistic goals and expectations and to remember that it  is “Real Surgery” and by being Cosmetic Surgery in no way diminishes the seriousness of the surgery, its outcomes and potential complications.

Several Cosmetic Surgery procedures are included in the “body contouring” procedures list. These include such procedures as Liposuction or Liposculpture, Tummy Tuck or Abdominoplasty, Arm Lift or Brachioplasty, Thigh Lift, Calf and Pectoral Augmentation, and Male Breast Reduction or Male Gynaecomastia Surgery.

Also known as suction lipectomy, liposuction will slim, sculpture and reshape specific areas of a person’s body by removing extra fat deposits. This will improve both the contours and proportion of the body. Ultimately, this Cosmetic Surgery procedure will enhance the self-image of any patient.

Tummy tuck surgery often referred to as Abdominoplasty will remove the excess fat like liposuction, but will also remove the excess skin. In most cases this procedure will restore separated or weakened muscles and will create an abdominal profile that is both firmer and smoother than before. After a person has lost a large amount of weight, they will likely need what many people call a “full body lift.” This surgery, or set of procedures will improve the tone and shape of a person’s underlying tissues that support skin and fat. A full body lift will also remove extra fat and skin.

Tummy Tuck

Liposuction and Abdominoplasty surgery is not meant to replace a healthy diet and exercise when attempting to lose weight or have a healthy weight. Typically most patients seeking this form of Cosmetic Surgery have tried everything and may have redundant fat, skin or both and they are finding it difficult to lose the redundant pockets of fat and tighten the excess skin.

Cosmetic Arm surgery is referred to by many names. Arm tuck, Brachioplasty, and Arm Lift and “Tuck shop Arm surgery” are the most common. The surgery is designed to remove flabby, redundant, and sagging skin folds in a person’s upper arms. Hanging arm skin folds are not just unsightly, but also will interfere with one’s ability to fit into a sleeved top. It will also cause underarm skin rash and irritation.

Arm Lift

Patients seeking Arm Lift surgery realise that they will have a long scar often from the armpit to the elbow on the inside of their arm. The scar will fade and be a fine line; despite this patients seeking this Surgery do so to improve the functional and aesthetic appearance of their arms.

A Thigh Lift procedure will reshape the thighs by reducing the excess skin, and in some cases fat. This will result in smoother skin and a better-proportioned contour of the lower body and thighs. There are various cosmetic surgery procedures that are available to those who would like to have fuller, perky, youthful buttocks with a more sensual body profile. The procedure for augmentation and enhancement of the buttock specifically varies depending on what is the actual deficiency and what is missing.

Calf augmentation is a Cosmetic Surgery procedure that is designed to enhance the appearance of one’s calves. It is also capable of enlarging the size of one’s calves as well as making them appear more proportionate in shape and size to the rest of the lower extremity of the body. In this procedure, calf implants of various contours, shapes, and sizes will be inserted over the existing calf muscles. This will achieve a fuller and better shape and contour to one’s calves.

Pectoral augmentation, often just called “Pec” implant surgery, is a procedure that is designed to add fullness, shape, and size to a male’s chest. The procedure involves inserting an implant into a space created under the pectoral muscles in a similar fashion to performing an Axillary approach Breast Augmentation or Breast Enlargement in females.

Pectoral Implants

Male Breast Reduction may be one of the most beneficial body contouring procedures. Gynaecomastia (female-like breasts in men) is a common problem that may affect only one or both breasts. There is no known cause in most cases. Surgery is the only known physical remedy for the problem. In the case of obesity, weight loss can alter the condition, but for many, it will not eliminate it.

Male Breast Reduction

For more details and a consultation with our experienced Cosmetic Surgeon Dr. Bobby A. Kumar MB,BS(UNSW)  BSc(UNSW) FACCS, call today for all appointments in Sydney, Port Macquarie and Adelaide on           (02) 9571 4850 or 0430 491 009. Alternatively visit www.bareaesthetics.com.au

Breast Augmentation

Botox® is often referred to as an anti-wrinkle, wrinkle reduction or muscle relaxant treatment. It is a neurotoxin (botulinium toxin type A) the clinical use of which is the result of more than 100 years study. The quantities used cosmetically to effectively treat facial wrinkles are not sufficient to cause any systemic harm (to cause harm several thousand units would be required).

Botox® works by blocking nerve impulses to a muscle, thereby inhibiting the muscles ability to contract causing lines and wrinkles. By inhibiting the muscle movement, lines are smoothed and diminished, resulting in a more youthful appearance. Facial lines and wrinkles that are typically treated include the Glabellar lines (vertical frown lines between the eyebrows that look like the number ‘11’), crows feet (wrinkles around the outer corners of the eye) or forehead worry lines.

The use of Botox® is not an exact science; the appropriate treatment or dose for one person may differ from another person, very much depending on skin type, depth of lines and frequency of muscle movement. When receiving Botox®, it is important to discuss this with the Cosmetic Surgeon so you understand and consent to the quantity and placement of the Botox® treatment. Some Cosmetic Surgeons take the conservative approach, starting with a smaller amount and monitoring effectiveness, rather than starting with a large amount that may not have been required in the first instance. Some clinics charge per unit of Botox® so you pay for exactly the amount you receive. Some clinics charge per area, for example, the brow area. Some clinics provide free consultation, but then often a client feels obligated to pursue treatment. Other clinics will have a consultation fee, but this will be waived in the event you pursue treatment with the product costs being the only fee.

Individual results with Botox® may vary between clients. Optimal results are usually seen by 2 weeks post treatment, but some clients will start to see results within 2-3 days of treatment. On some occasions, an adjustment dose may be required as you and the Cosmetic Surgeon find the quantity that works best for you to achieve maximum effectiveness.

The effects of Botox® last initially for 3 – 4 months before clients begin to notice the return of muscle activity. Subsequent Botox® injections often result in longer lasting results as the muscles atrophy and weaken over time. A common misconception about Botox® is that it is addictive. Clients decide whether or not to return for further treatments. However, the overwhelming majority of clients enjoy the results and their rejuvenated, refreshed appearance and thus seek to maintain their results.

Botox® is a medical treatment and should only be performed or supervised by a qualified Cosmetic Surgeon. Prior to treatment, the Cosmetic Surgeon should fully discuss with you your medical history and answer any questions or concerns you may have about treatment. There are some medications and conditions which can make you an unsuitable candidate for Botox®, so it is important to disclose your medical history, including any medications, vitamins and herbal treatments you may be taking. Such products as aspirin or ibuprofen, for example, cause blood thinning that increases the likelihood of bleeding and/or bruising after treatment. Botox® treatment typically takes 10 to 30 minutes. Techniques such as the use of a small needle and ice packs help to minimise discomfort.

Actual patients Botox results Before and After

Complications of Botox® include localised pain, discomfort, tenderness, inflammation, redness, bleeding and/or bruising. In inexperienced or untrained hands, there is the risk of complications such as eyelid droop or a down turned mouth.

Men and women are choosing to have Botox® in order to achieve a rejuvenated, refreshed and youthful appearance.

For an appointment contact Sydney rooms on (02) 9571 4850 or 0430 491 009 and Port Macquarie rooms on (02) 6583 3588.

Our face is the first part of our body people notice and first impressions can be lasting. With the process of aging written all over our faces, it is common for both men and women to seek ways to rejuvenate and refresh their appearance. This may range from the use of beauty products that promise to restore a youthful complexion, to the use of facial peels, and products such as Botox® and Dermal Fillers.

Botox® is often referred to as an anti-wrinkle, wrinkle reduction or muscle relaxant treatment. It is a neurotoxin (botulinium toxin type A) the clinical use of which is the result of more than 100 years study. The quantities used cosmetically to effectively treat facial wrinkles are not sufficient to cause any systemic harm (to cause harm several thousand units would be required).

Botox® works by blocking nerve impulses to a muscle, thereby inhibiting the muscles ability to contract causing lines and wrinkles. By inhibiting the muscle movement, lines are smoothed and diminished, resulting in a more youthful appearance. Facial lines and wrinkles that are typically treated include the Glabellar lines (vertical frown lines between the eyebrows that look like the number ‘11’), crows feet (wrinkles around the outer corners of the eye) or forehead worry lines.

The use of Botox® is not an exact science; the appropriate treatment or dose for one person may differ from another person, very much depending on skin type, depth of lines and frequency of muscle movement. When receiving Botox®, it is important to discuss this with the Cosmetic Surgeon so you understand and consent to the quantity and placement of the Botox® treatment. Some Cosmetic Surgeons take the conservative approach, starting with a smaller amount and monitoring effectiveness, rather than starting with a large amount that may not have been required in the first instance. Some clinics charge per unit of Botox® so you pay for exactly the amount you receive. Some clinics charge per area, for example, the brow area. Some clinics provide free consultation, but then often a client feels obligated to pursue treatment. Other clinics will have a consultation fee, but this will be waived in the event you pursue treatment with the product costs being the only fee.

Individual results with Botox® may vary between clients. Optimal results are usually seen by 2 weeks post treatment, but some clients will start to see results within 2-3 days of treatment. On some occasions, an adjustment dose may be required as you and the Cosmetic Surgeon find the quantity that works best for you to achieve maximum effectiveness.

The effects of Botox® last initially for 3 – 4 months before clients begin to notice the return of muscle activity. Subsequent Botox® injections often result in longer lasting results as the muscles atrophy and weaken over time. A common misconception about Botox® is that it is addictive. Clients decide whether or not to return for further treatments. However, the overwhelming majority of clients enjoy the results and their rejuvenated, refreshed appearance and thus seek to maintain their results.

Botox® is a medical treatment and should only be performed or supervised by a qualified Cosmetic Surgeon. Prior to treatment, the Cosmetic Surgeon should fully discuss with you your medical history and answer any questions or concerns you may have about treatment. There are some medications and conditions which can make you an unsuitable candidate for Botox®, so it is important to disclose your medical history, including any medications, vitamins and herbal treatments you may be taking. Such products as aspirin or ibuprofen, for example, cause blood thinning that increases the likelihood of bleeding and/or bruising after treatment. Botox® treatment typically takes 10 to 30 minutes. Techniques such as the use of a small needle and ice packs help to minimise discomfort.

Complications of Botox® include localised pain, discomfort, tenderness, inflammation, redness, bleeding and/or bruising. In inexperienced or untrained hands, there is the risk of complications such as eyelid droop or a down turned mouth.

Men and women are choosing to have Botox® in order to achieve a rejuvenated, refreshed and youthful appearance.

Breast Implant surgery is one of the most common Cosmetic Surgery procedures performed in Australia. Many women are choosing breast augmentation to enhance their breast shape and size, body proportion and contours. Some women have always felt uncomfortable with smaller or uneven breasts; other women seek to restore their breast size and shape after pregnancies and breast feeding or significant weight loss. Whatever your motivation, it is important to research the procedure and seek the opinion of a qualified and experienced Cosmetic Surgeon.

Dr. Bobby Kumar, Cosmetic Surgeon, has been practicing in Sydney for many years and is now offering his considerable skills and experience to patients in Adelaide. Dr. Bobby Kumar travels to Adelaide on a regular basis to perform patient consultations and surgery. He is experienced in a range of Cosmetic Surgery Procedures, including breast augmentation (breast implants), tummy tucks (abdominoplasty), face lifts and breast reduction/lift.

Breast augmentation involves the use of implants to enhance breast size and shape. There are two main types of breast implants, saline or silicone. Silicone implants have become more popular due to their natural feel. They consist of an outer silicone shell containing silicone gel. The silicone gel stays intact in the rare event that an implant ruptures or breaks. Saline implants also have an outer silicone shell, but are filled with saline, a fluid based on water and salt similar to that naturally occurring in our bodies.

Recently in Adelaide there have been well publicised issues with a particular commonly used brand of breast implant that were manufactured in France. There were reported cases and an increased incidence of breast implants rupturing and leaking. Dr. Bobby Kumar has never used this particular type of implant due to his own concerns and research regarding their negative outcomes. The breast implants he chooses to use come from a manufacturer and supplier that is TGA approved and has the lowest incidence of complications.

Breast implants also vary in their size, shape and volume. The most suitable implant to achieve the results you desire will be discussed between you and Dr. Bobby Kumar based on your physical examination and measurements. An implant that is suitable for one woman may not be appropriate for another, depending on features such as existing breast tissue, shape or droop of the breast, size of the chest, and body proportions. These issues will all be discussed at length with you by Dr. Bobby Kumar so you are in the best position to make an informed decision about what is right for you.  Many women do not want to have an ‘implanted’ look and Dr. Bobby Kumar strives to achieve the most natural looking results.

The first step in the breast augmentation process is to have a consultation with Dr. Bobby Kumar in Adelaide to discuss your options and obtain all the information you require about breast surgery. If you want to proceed with surgery, there are a few things to bear in mind. Breast surgery is usually performed as a day procedure under either twilight sedation or general anaesthetic. Most women return to work within 1 – 2 weeks depending on their type of work. Heavy lifting is to be avoided after surgery, in order to allow the chest tissues to heal and the implants to settle into position. Usually women are back into their normal routine, including exercise, at about 6 weeks after surgery.

Women who have had breast augmentation typically report a high level of satisfaction with the results including the enhancement to their overall body shape and proportions and often experience a boost in their self confidence.

Breast augmentation using breast implants, typically silicone implants, is currently the most popular and common cosmetic surgery performed in Sydney. This procedure involves the insertion of implants to enlarge and enhance a woman’s breasts. This requires only a few days of recovery and has very good rates of success and high satisfaction.

Liposuction has been so far the most popular cosmetic surgery procedure in Sydney to achieve immediate sculptured and defined bodies, particularly following weight loss programs. It is not surprising therefore, that both men and women consider Cosmetic Surgery to improve their self confidence and more importantly for some, for health reasons. Sydney patients importantly consider the length of time to recover and any possible adverse effects and consequently they achieve realistic and desired results. Liposuction as a form of cosmetic surgery is commonly performed on women and men on their abdomen, buttocks, hips, thighs, and upper arms.

Another procedure in Sydney that is very popular among women following weight loss and pregnancy and men after significant weight loss is a tummy tuck (Abdominoplasty). This is performed when liposuction or other cosmetic surgery, weight loss or exercise alone will not address the sagging abdominal skin and spreading abdominal muscles. A Tummy Tuck tightens the lax skin and abdominal muscles, creating a defined abdomen. The scar is located below the underwear line and is easily hidden by clothing. Tummy Tuck scars typically fade to a fine scar with care and appropriate scar management.

Rhinoplasty, commonly called a “nose job”, is another popular cosmetic surgery in Sydney where the nose is reshaped, producing an aesthetic and attractive nose and therefore facial features. The nose is an important and central feature of the face. Trauma or normal aberrations of the nose can result in a loss of self confidence by patients seeking Rhinoplasty surgery. Patients in Sydney who undergo Rhinoplasty either want to enhance, change the shape or augment their nose.  Rhinoplasty alone may not correct breathing problems; these patients will need to seek the advice from an Ear, Nose and Throat surgeon to help improve breathing difficulties.

Other common cosmetic surgeries in Sydney are face and neck lift and breast reduction (reduction mammaplasty). Face and neck lift surgery are performed for patients seeking a longer term result while breast reduction decreases the breast volume and shape to a natural, perky shape. It removes excess breast fat, glandular tissue and skin to achieve a breast size in proportion with your body weight.

For most patients in Sydney, the decision to undergo cosmetic surgery is a significant and important step. Often it is an attempt to enhance, improve or correct a patient’s self image but it could also be to resolve an underlying medical condition. More importantly, the patient makes an informed decision and is under the care of a professional who is qualified to perform cosmetic surgery be it in Sydney or elsewhere in Australia.

Patients often find they appear rejuvenated to others, with final results being aesthetic and natural. Unlike the excesses of Cosmetic Surgery performed overseas in countries such as the USA, patients in Sydney and Australia prefer an enhanced, rejuvenated, beautiful and natural result.

Non-surgical and less invasive facial rejuvenation treatments, such as Botox® or Dermal Fillers, are temporary measures to address the signs of aging such as wrinkles, frown lines and volume loss. Face lift surgery offers longer lasting refreshed and rejuvenated results.

There are a number of techniques to perform Face lift surgery, with varied results and success. Macs lift; S Lift and Thread lift offer quick “lunch time” Face lifts. They temporarily address the sagging skin but not the sagging underlying primary soft tissues. These procedures are also restricted by the kind of patient for whom they are appropriate. They are normally youthful patients with minimum wrinkles, sagging or sun damage and thick skin. However, as the results are only temporary, many patients are unsatisfied longer term and seek correction with a comprehensive Face lift at a later date.

A comprehensive and thorough face lift should give an excellent and long-term result for most patients. The surgery is typically performed under deep sedation or general anaesthesia. The recovery period is expected to be between 2 to 3 weeks

Face lifts can be effectively combined with eyelid surgery (also known as blepharoplasty) and other facial procedures. Blepharoplasty specifically addresses the sagging tissue around the eye that can be very aging and give patients a sad or tired appearance.

Face lifts are beneficial in addressing sagging and wrinkled skin creases in the cheeks, jowls and neck. Lines around the mouth, such as marionette lines and nasolabial folds may not be completely addressed by surgery and Botox® and dermal fillers may be used to enhance the Face lift results. Excess pulling and tightening of the skin causing a “windswept” look is to be avoided.

As correct Face lift techniques also address the deeper tissues and structures of the face and neck, there is less tension at the closure of the incisions. The incisions are concealed within the tucks and natural folds. Efforts to prevent hair loss due to traction, injury or strain to hair follicles are observed during the procedure.

Following Face lift surgery, continued care of the skin is important, especially from the damaging effects of ultraviolet light and the sun.

Patients who have undergone Face lift surgery describe their appearance as refreshed, rejuvenated and revitalized. Friends and family often ask where they have been on holiday!

If you are among the many people who are contemplating face lift surgery, there are certain things you should consider in your quest for a rejuvenated and refreshed appearance. First, try to learn as much as you can about the procedure. It is important to familiarize yourself with the different options available so you can discuss with your surgeon how your needs and expectations can be addressed. There are two types of face lift; the traditional face lift and the mini face lift. The latter is usually appropriate for younger patients who have less excess facial skin than the traditional face lift patient. It also uses a smaller incision and concentrates on smoothing the middle section of the face more than the neck or chin area.

The top priority for people who are considering a face lift is to choose a cosmetic surgeon who is certified and duly qualified to perform the surgery. Choose a surgeon who has been properly trained and has extensive experience in the particular procedure you wish to have. Be aware that anyone who has earned a medical degree can perform cosmetic surgery but you will be better off with a board certified cosmetic surgeon as they are required to undergo advanced surgical training before receiving their certification. It is also equally important for you to have a surgeon you trust and with whom you are comfortable.

Before having the surgery, make sure you are well prepared. Take good care of yourself and work closely with your surgeon to ensure that you are in good health before the procedure. A healthy lifestyle contributes to a better outcome. If you smoke, you have to quit at least one month before and one month following the surgery. You may also be required to refrain from taking medications such as aspirin and other drugs that increase the risk of bleeding. During your consultation with your surgeon, he will give you a complete list of things you should and should not consume before and after the procedure.

Like all surgical procedures, there are inherent risks and complications. These may include a potential adverse reaction to the anaesthesia or risk of infections, injury or damage to facial nerves, modified skin sensation or visible scarring. You cannot completely prevent all these risks but you can minimize the possibility of them occurring by choosing the best cosmetic surgeon available. Finally, remember that a facelift will not stop the process of aging, but it can give you a revitalized and refreshed look that will last for years.

Men and women have different reasons for pursuing Cosmetic Surgery, whether it is to achieve a more youthful appearance to reflect one’s outlook and personality, to achieve a certain body proportion or shape, or to restore or rejuvenate one’s appearance. Often patients are everyday people seeking to restore their body shape, sometimes after significant weight loss or often mums who want their bodies to return to their pre-pregnancy shape and size. What is important for a person considering Cosmetic Surgery is that the individual is doing it for himself or herself and not for other people. It is also vital to have realistic goals and expectations of what Cosmetic Surgery can achieve, and a certified Cosmetic Surgeon will discuss your goals and potential outcomes of Cosmetic Surgery with you in detail.

People who have had successful Cosmetic Surgery describe an increase in their self-esteem and self confidence, which has a positive impact on their everyday interactions in work and social situations.

Types of Cosmetic Surgery

There are various types of Cosmetic Surgery. These include:

• Breast augmentation – also known as breast implants or breast enlargement. This surgery involves insertion of breast implants into the breast tissue to enhance the size and shape of the breasts. Breast augmentation may be sought by women wishing to increase the size of their breasts or restore previous volume and shape prior to weight loss or pregnancy and breast feeding.

• Breast lift – involves lifting of the breast to address sagging or drooping and may be performed in conjunction with a breast augmentation. Again, this surgery may be appropriate for women seeking to restore previous shape prior to pregnancy and breast feeding or weight loss.

• Breast reduction – surgery to reduce the size and reshape the breast, often pursued by women who are suffering back and neck pain and general discomfort. This is also pursued by men to address “man boobs”. This procedure may also involve liposuction.

• Face lift and/or Neck lift – surgery sought by men and women to rejuvenate the face and neck area by tightening, lifting and redraping skin and the underlying tissue. Good technique and surgical skill ensures a natural looking result rather than a ‘windswept’ appearance.

• Eyelid surgery – technically known as blepharoplasty. This procedure for men or women is used to address excess skin and tissue in the eye area, either on the upper eyelid or lower eyelid.

• Abdominoplasty – commonly known as tummy tuck. This surgery addresses the shape and tone of the tummy area, typically sought by men and women who have lost a significant amount of weight and require removal of excess skin and tissue, or by mums who have residual skin and tissue after pregnancy. This surgery may also include liposuction.

• Liposuction – also known as liposculpture. This surgery involves removal of fatty tissue through a process of suctioning and is particularly useful for men and women who have achieved an optimal and stable weight and have residual areas of fatty tissue not resolved through diet or exercise. Liposuction may be performed in the tummy area, flanks, thighs or arms.

• Rhinoplasty – this is nose surgery sought by men and women for either aesthetic or structural repair reasons. Balancing the size and shape of the nose to the face is the common motivation to pursue Rhinoplasty.

• Otoplasty – ear surgery for either men or women, primarily addressing the size, shape and prominence of the ears in proportion to the head.

• Labiaplasty – also known as Labioplasty. This is a surgical procedure to reduce the size and enhance the shape and appearance of the labia.

There are also a range of non-surgical procedures to rejuvenate and freshen the appearance of the face. These include use of anti-wrinkle injections, such as Botox® or dermal fillers, such as Juvederm®.

Whether through pursuing Cosmetic Surgery or non-surgical Cosmetic procedures, there are many ways to rejuvenate and refresh your appearance. Your certified Cosmetic Surgeon will provide you with more information in a consultation.