Choosing to have cosmetic surgery is a big decision, both emotionally and financially, so making sure you are prepared as possible before you begin your journey is highly recommended. Here are a few helpful tips to help get you prepared for a breast augmentation before making that all-important decision.
Do plenty of research before you commit to anything
You really can’t underestimate the value in putting in a significant number of research hours. Reading around the procedure(s) that you are considering, looking at before and after photos, reading reviews of different surgeons, reading around what to expect from the recovery period – there is a wealth of information out there which will help you feel more prepared ahead of booking to discuss your wishes with a surgeon.
RealSelf, the leading cosmetic surgery review site, recently released its list of most researched cosmetic procedures of 2019 and it’s no surprise that breast augmentation topped the list of surgical procedures.
So, research is essential, but always keep an open mind before you go for a consultation with your plastic surgeon.
Planning for a boob job: One size doesn’t fit all
Not only it is not just one size, but there are a number of different breast procedures that are available to women. Enlargements, reductions, reshaping, uplifting – different procedures will be right for different women, and sometimes a combination is required for the look that you hoping to achieve.
If a breast augmentation is the most appropriate procedure, then implant size and the cup size you will be after surgery is the next consideration. Cosmetic breast specialist Mr Alan Park will take into account your anatomy, the size of your frame, your existing breast tissue and expectations from surgery and then advise you on which implant size will be best suited to you.
Planning for a boob job: Make the decision for you and only you
If you are feeling at all pressured to make changes to your body, then this is not likely to be the right route for you. Only give genuine consideration to surgery if it is something that you want. Equally, if you are hearing concerns from friends or family, don’t let someone else put you off if it is something that is important to you.
Planning for a boob job: Make sure you give due consideration to choosing a breast augmentation surgeon
There is a wide choice of practitioners out there so make sure you choose one who is registered with all the correct professional bodies. In the UK, all surgeons are required to be registered with the General Medical Council (GMC) and may well also be members of membership bodies such as the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) or the British Association of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS).
Once you feel mentally prepared it’s time to pick up the phone and book a consultation, this will be your first chance to meet your surgeon, talk to them and their team and to begin exploring in more depth what will be the best approach for you. Call 01926 436341 to book a consultation at Mr Alan Park’s Warwickshire cosmetic surgery clinic.
Can liposuction cure cellulite?
/in News /by katharineCellulite is a problem that very many women believe they suffer with; it is a dimpling of the skin caused by a particular kind of fat cells beneath the skin which leads to the orange-peel effect. It is believed that almost everyone has some degree of cellulite, but some have a greater instance of it than others.
There are many suggestions of how people can help reduce, and ideally, remove cellulite. These range from techniques such as:
Liposuction and cellulite: does liposuction help?
It is a common misconception that liposuction can help get rid of cellulite. As nice as it would be if it did, liposuction is not a cellulite reduction technique. Liposuction targets stubborn fat cells that reside in a different area of the skin then the cellulite cells. During a liposuction procedure, these fatty cells are sucked out and discarded, leaving a smoother, firmer-looking appearance to the skin. The cellulite cells are found closer to the surface of the skin and are not the same as the ones that liposuction can remove.
Liposuction and cellulite: what can be expected?
Although excess fat can exacerbate the appearance of cellulite it is worth remembering that it is recommended that people who want liposuction reach their target weight before they have the procedure done. Liposuction is not a fat removal technique. If you are hoping to smooth and firm up your skin, then reaching your target weight may actually reduce the appearance of cellulite as a by-product. Liposuction can help target fatty deposits, but you might find that some cellulite remains.
If you are concerned about the look and feel of your skin due to fat deposits and/or cellulite then it is worth talking to a surgeon and possibly also a dermatologist to work out the best solution to the problem. Sometimes a surgical fix is likely to be the best option, but if cellulite is the main cause for concern then it might be that specific techniques that target cellulite directly might be yield more effective results.
For more liposuction advice, call 01926 436341 to arrange a consultation.
Can fat removed by liposuction come back?
/in News /by katharineThe new year is often a time for making new year’s resolutions, many of them body-related after the excesses of the festive season. Liposuction is a very effective means of removing challenging fatty deposits from under the skin and creating a leaner, smoother appearance to the treated area. It can be a very good way to target the look of specific problem areas, but Warwickshire cosmetic surgeon Mr Alan Park is keen to stress that it is not a weight-loss technique.
The results are fast and long-lasting – if you make the right lifestyle choices following the procedure then the results can be permanent. However, you cannot just rest on your laurels once you have had it done. It will take a sensible approach to diet and exercise to maintain the results afterwards.
What happens when you have liposuction?
Essentially, the process involves removing fat cells from under the skin. They are isolated, targeted and removed, so once the procedure is complete, those fat cells with no longer exist. Surgeons use an instrument called a cannula (like a surgical straw) to suck the unwanted fat cells out of the body and they are then discarded. What the procedure can’t do is mitigate against the risk of fat cells building up elsewhere as a result of lifestyle choices.
A common misconception with liposuction is that the fat can come back. The fat cells that have been removed can’t come back, but not all fatty tissue is removed and the remaining fat cells can expand, or other areas will increase in size.
What can happen after the procedure?
Fat can most definitely return to other areas of the body, so this is not a free pass to eat and live exactly how you may want. You will need to make sensible choices about calorie intake and exercise to ensure the longevity of the results. In summary, while liposuction can be a great tool to achieve the body that you want, it is still important to live an active and healthy lifestyle afterwards.
For more liposuction advice, call 01926 436341 to arrange a consultation.
3 things to consider before having liposuction
/in News /by katharineLiposuction is a popular body contouring technique that has been performed since an Italian gynaecologist called Dr Giorgio Fischer developed it in 1974. It is very popular, with several thousand women in the UK every year choosing liposuction to help iron out some problematic areas that they have not been able to address with diet or exercise. There are some important facts about liposuction that it is helpful to know before you decide to go ahead with the procedure which we’ll discuss in your lipo consultation.
If you want to lose weight, lose it before you have liposuction
The most important thing to consider when you’re thinking about having liposuction is that it is not a weight loss technique. This is the most common misconception that people have about liposuction, so here we will clear up any ambiguity about it.
Liposuction is best carried out when you have a stable body weight that you are comfortable with. The technique is designed to tackle unwanted pockets of fat that you have not been able to shift via other means. While we’re looking at what liposuction doesn’t do, it is worth noting that it also doesn’t remove cellulite, dimpled skin, or stretchmarks.
You’ll feel a bit delicate afterwards
As with many cosmetic surgery procedures, you will need to allow yourself time to recover afterwards and avoid strenuous exercise for around a month to six weeks afterwards. There will be a degree of bruising and swelling, as with any invasive technique.
Compression garments can help reduce swelling by reducing the risk of water retention in the affected area(s) and they can also help control the amount of bruising. You’ll be given thorough information about how to approach your aftercare, but you should expect to wear these for a number of weeks following surgery.
The results are long-lasting
The very good news about liposuction is its longevity. Assuming you maintain a stable weight following the procedure, you can expect that the results will last for many years. It takes a little while for the skin to settle down after the procedure, so you won’t really be able to see the full effects for around six months after you have had the work done, but be patient – the results are worth waiting for.
How is breast asymmetry treated?
/in News /by katharineBreast asymmetry is a condition whereby the breasts are unequal in size or shape. It is surprisingly common, with around half of women having somewhat uneven breasts, although as with everything, some cases are more marked than others.
Breast asymmetry can relate (most commonly) to the volume of breast tissue or sometimes the position of the nipple and is sometimes attributable to underdevelopment in one of the breasts. For women who have asymmetric breasts, many report feeling self-conscious about their breasts and that it affects their body confidence.
What does a breast asymmetry correction entail?
There are non-surgical options which can be explored first, and these include wearing a specially fitted padded bra with either foam or gel inserts. This will improve the symmetrical look of the breasts while clothed, but will not help address the issue behind closed doors.
Going down the surgical route
Despite these options, many women with significant differences in the size of their breasts opt for surgical intervention to help balance the shape and size of their chest. There are surgical options that can be explored for women who are concerned with breast asymmetry, assuming that they are over the age of 18 and are not still undergoing the changes associated with puberty.
Depending on the size of your breasts, some women will choose a breast augmentation, whereby an implant is inserted into the chest cavity to enlarge the smaller of the breasts. Other women may choose to undergo a breast reduction on the larger of the two. Either way, these options can both dramatically improve the symmetry of uneven breasts.
In order to agree on the best options moving forward, the patient’s individual concerns, worries and motivations will be explored at the consultation. Often patients have a fairly clear idea of what they want and how they wish to achieve it, but talking things through with a cosmetic surgeon will help clarify and illustrate the different options available and which is likely to be the most suitable route for them.
If you have concerns about the size or shape of your breasts, call 01926 436341 to book a consultation at Mr Alan Park’s Warwickshire cosmetic surgery clinic.
How long can I expect my tummy tuck results to last?
/in News /by katharineOne of the most frequently asked questions that we are asked about tummy tucks is how long the results are expected to last. This is the burning question on the tip of everyone’s tongue – will the investment now be worth it in the long run or will the results deteriorate over time?
The answer is two-fold. The surgery itself is one element but how you look after yourself and your body is another.
We will start by exploring the surgery and the good news is that the tummy tuck results should be long-lasting – it is intended to be a permanent fix. It is designed to give a firmer, smoother midriff and the operation involves making an incision and removing excess folds of skin. Stomach muscles are then repaired and tightened using internal sutures. The operation is sometimes coupled with liposuction which is designed to remove troublesome areas of fat that just cannot be shifted via other means.
So, then it is over to you.
Problem of weight gain
It is important to understand that weight gain will negatively impact on the results of a tummy tuck. Gaining a significant amount of weight following this type of operation will certainly affect its longevity. Significant weight gain can cause the existing fat cells in both the treated area and other areas to expand and it can even result in the body producing new fat cells in these areas.
The remaining skin can also become stretched again. With this in mind, it is also highly recommended that you finish your family before having surgery like this, as pregnancy will also undo the good work done to the stomach muscles and the excess skin.
And what about weight loss?
Losing weight presents lesser challenges, but significant weight loss can also affect how your abdomen looks after a tummy tuck. Your skin’s natural elasticity can cope with a small amount of weight loss but if you lose a lot then this will likely result in sagging skin.
The best approach you can take to maintain your tummy tuck results is to eat a balanced, nutrient-rich diet, exercise regularly and try not to smoke. Maintaining a stable weight is the best way of keeping the results looking as they were intended to.
Things to consider before a boob job
/in News /by katharineChoosing to have cosmetic surgery is a big decision, both emotionally and financially, so making sure you are prepared as possible before you begin your journey is highly recommended. Here are a few helpful tips to help get you prepared for a breast augmentation before making that all-important decision.
Do plenty of research before you commit to anything
You really can’t underestimate the value in putting in a significant number of research hours. Reading around the procedure(s) that you are considering, looking at before and after photos, reading reviews of different surgeons, reading around what to expect from the recovery period – there is a wealth of information out there which will help you feel more prepared ahead of booking to discuss your wishes with a surgeon.
RealSelf, the leading cosmetic surgery review site, recently released its list of most researched cosmetic procedures of 2019 and it’s no surprise that breast augmentation topped the list of surgical procedures.
So, research is essential, but always keep an open mind before you go for a consultation with your plastic surgeon.
Planning for a boob job: One size doesn’t fit all
Not only it is not just one size, but there are a number of different breast procedures that are available to women. Enlargements, reductions, reshaping, uplifting – different procedures will be right for different women, and sometimes a combination is required for the look that you hoping to achieve.
If a breast augmentation is the most appropriate procedure, then implant size and the cup size you will be after surgery is the next consideration. Cosmetic breast specialist Mr Alan Park will take into account your anatomy, the size of your frame, your existing breast tissue and expectations from surgery and then advise you on which implant size will be best suited to you.
Planning for a boob job: Make the decision for you and only you
If you are feeling at all pressured to make changes to your body, then this is not likely to be the right route for you. Only give genuine consideration to surgery if it is something that you want. Equally, if you are hearing concerns from friends or family, don’t let someone else put you off if it is something that is important to you.
Planning for a boob job: Make sure you give due consideration to choosing a breast augmentation surgeon
There is a wide choice of practitioners out there so make sure you choose one who is registered with all the correct professional bodies. In the UK, all surgeons are required to be registered with the General Medical Council (GMC) and may well also be members of membership bodies such as the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) or the British Association of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS).
Once you feel mentally prepared it’s time to pick up the phone and book a consultation, this will be your first chance to meet your surgeon, talk to them and their team and to begin exploring in more depth what will be the best approach for you. Call 01926 436341 to book a consultation at Mr Alan Park’s Warwickshire cosmetic surgery clinic.
Questions you should ask at a tummy tuck consultation
/in News /by katharineAhead of a tummy tuck consultation, it is recommended that you draw up a list of all of your key questions so that you leave the consultation feeling informed and fully prepared. It is important to be as prepared as possible for your consultation and the more prep you put in beforehand; the more informed/educated you will feel afterwards.
A helping hand for your tummy tuck consultation
Here we have provided a list of questions, Warwickshire cosmetic surgeon Mr Alan Park is often asked at tummy tuck consultations. Questions you might like to ask could include some or all of the following:
You will be given a lot of information at your consultation so it is sensible to take something to write notes with so that you are able to jot down the things that you will want to revisit after the consultation. If you want to return for a follow-up consultation at any point, Mr Park welcomes further questions as it is essential you feel fully informed before making this decision.
To arrange a consultation with Mr Park, call 01926 436341 to be seen at the Warwickshire Nuffield or 024 7664 7061 to arrange an appointment at BMI The Meriden Hospital in Coventry.
How to minimise tummy tuck scarring
/in News /by katharineOne of the things that patients tend to be most concerned about if they are considering a tummy tuck is the scarring left behind afterwards. Although it is important to have realistic expectations about what to expect – the incision is significant so scarring is unavoidable – there are steps you can take to help your scar heal and fade.
Minimise tummy tuck scarring: get up and about as soon as you can
There is a wealth of data that supports how important it is to get mobile again as quickly as you can. Walking around helps the blood flow to the affected area which is a great help when healing, and it also helps reduce swelling. As soon as you feel you can take these steps, they are the first steps on the road to recovery.
Minimise tummy tuck scarring: eat and drink well, taking in plenty of vitamins
Following a healthy, balanced diet is recommended for everyone but it is particularly important when your body is recovering from a significant trauma such as a large operation. Ensuring you have plenty and fruit and vegetables is ideal, and you should endeavour to drink lots of water.
Minimise tummy tuck scarring: apply vitamin E to the scar
There is evidence to suggest that vitamin E helps boost collagen production in the skin (and it also helps keep the area moisturised) so therefore can be helpful in helping the healing process. Try to weave this into your recovery routine as applying daily for a few months is believed to be helpful.
Minimise tummy tuck scarring: try to avoid smoking for as long as possible
Ideally, the best way to heal and to remain healthy after any procedures is not to smoke, but for those who wish to continue smoking or who are not able to consider quitting, refraining for at least six weeks is advised to give your body the best chance of healing effectively.
Minimise tummy tuck scarring: avoid the sun
Keeping your scar out of the sunshine is important for the first year as the scar tissue is forming and can be negatively affected by the sun’s UV rays. Although applying sun cream would seem sensible, this is not advised for the first 12 months either. Once you have passed this milestone, there are scar-specific sun creams that can be purchased, and if you can’t get hold of one of these, ensure you’re using SPF30 or above around the area of the scar.
For more advice on tummy tuck scarring, call 01926 436341 to arrange a consultation at Mr Alan Park’s Warwickshire cosmetic surgery clinic.
Am I a good candidate for male breast reduction?
/in News /by katharineGynaecomastia is a condition that affects some men and which generates larger than average breast tissue, colloquially known as ‘moobs’ (man-boobs). The condition is caused by a hormonal imbalance, whereby too much oestrogen is created, or the balance of oestrogen to progesterone is not correctly aligned and an excess of glandular tissue is produced. impression.
Put simply, male breast reduction is a procedure designed to help men look and feel better about their chest. The operation involves surgical removal of unwanted fat and gland tissues from the breast area, achieving a smoother, flatter and firmer appearance to the chest.
Understanding whether you are suitable for male breast reduction
Some men might be reading this and wondering if they are suitable for male breast reduction surgery, so this checklist should help you establish whether you might be suitable:
Hormonal imbalances are quite common in adolescent men, so it is not uncommon in late teens to be concerned that gynaecomastia is developing, however, this often corrects itself once the hormones have settled down.
Equally, if men are overweight then this can cause ‘pseudo-gynaecomastia’ which is not linked to hormones but is a build-up of excess fatty tissue all over the body, including the chest. If this sounds like something you can relate more to then the good news is that diet and exercise may be all that is needed to address this. The first step will be to try non-surgical methods, but if that does not work then surgery may be the fix you are looking for and Warwickshire cosmetic surgeon Mr Alan Park can advise you on the most appropriate treatment option.
What else to expect
Smokers will be advised to quit or significantly reduce their nicotine intake prior to surgery as this really helps the healing process and can reduce the risk of complications. It is also sensible to set realistic explications ahead of deciding on a procedure such as this.
To find out if you’re suitable for a male breast reduction, call 01926 436341 to arrange a consultation with Mr Park.
How best to prepare for breast enlargement surgery
/in News /by katharineIf you’re getting ready to have breast enlargement surgery, then you are probably wondering if there is anything you should do or not do in the run-up to the operation. Here we give a breakdown of some of the things you can do to help be best prepared for your operation, both from a physical perspective and also from a psychological perspective, too.
Physical preparing for breast enlargement surgery
Avoid taking aspirin and other anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen). If you regularly take aspirin or other medication (particularly anti-inflammatory drugs) then speak to your surgeon and/or GP about when is best to stop taking these. These kinds of drugs can affect how well the blood clots which can lead to excess bleeding during or after surgery.
Stop smoking before breast enlargement surgery
This is always a tricky one for patients who are regular smokers and we don’t underestimate how difficult it can be to stop smoking, but we advise all patients to quit before any cosmetic surgery procedure to ensure the optimal outcome. If you are able to stop in the weeks leading up to your operation and during the healing process (ideally for at least the first six weeks) then this is going to be most beneficial to your health.
Directly before breast enlargement surgery
It is advised to shower thoroughly and to use anti-bacterial wash on the morning of your operation. It is also advisable to wash your hair so that it lasts as long as possible before you have to wash it again.
Mental preparing for any elective surgery
Reflect on your decision and make sure you’re feeling in control. Make sure you’re feeling confident and comfortable about your choices. As long as you are happy with the choice to have surgery then that is all that really matters. If you feel nervous or hesitant then speak to your surgeon to see if they can give you reassurance or information to help. If you feel unsure whether it is the right choice for you then it is never too late to postpone or cancel your operation.
Recovering from breast enlargement surgery
Finally, think ahead to the preparations you could do at home to ensure that things are as easy as possible when you are recovering from surgery. If you have a spouse/partner/friend or family member on hand to help, then this will really help from a practical perspective. Ideally, you should have someone with you in the first 24 hours after your operation.
For more advice on how best to prepare for breast enlargement surgery, call 01926 436341 to arrange a consultation with cosmetic breast specialist Mr Alan Park.