In the News

Blepharoplasty Dubai | 19 May 2020

Blepharoplasty can be performed for any of the following reasons,

– The ‘tired’ look is the most common reason that patients opt for blepharoplasty surgery. The heaviness of the eyelids and bags under the eyes give the appearance of a constantly exhausted and tired appearance.

– The appearance of the eyelids may be asymmetrical and blepharoplasty may be performed to improve symmetry.

– Saggy upper eyelid skin can obstruct the visual field (you may not be able to see the full extent of your lateral vision) so blepharoplasty is performed to remove this obstruction and improve vision.

– There are several disfiguring conditions such as Thyroid Eye Disease which require blepharoplasty surgery to restore the natural appearance of the eyes. This type of surgery is highly specialised.

How Is Eyelid Blepharoplasty Surgery Performed?

Experience and expertise are required to execute all forms of blepharoplasty surgery. Upper eyelid blepharoplasty is a procedure offering rapid recovery. The blepharoplasty incision is measured and marked. Variable amounts of skin, underlying muscle and fat are removed, or if there is pre-existing upper eyelid hollowness, these tissues can be repositioned to fill the hollows in order to achieve a pleasing and youthful appearance of the eyelid and to improve the visual field. After the desired amount of excision is accomplished, buried dissolvable stitches are used and the skin surface is closed. Lower eyelid blepharoplasty is a more involved procedure requiring an incision under the eyelash line, running beyond the corner of the eye. Excess skin, muscle and fat can then be removed or repositioned through this incision. Sometimes, particularly for younger patients, the main aesthetic issue is the underlying fat bulge. In these cases, a transconjunctival ‘scarless’ approach through the inside of the eyelid is preferred. 

The skin closure is made using either removable sutures or with glue, meaning that sometimes no suture removal is required. Upper eyelid blepharoplasty surgery is most often performed under local anesthesia either with or without sedation. Lower eyelid blepharoplasty is usually performed under local anaesthesia with sedation, or general anaesthesia if the patient prefers. When having both upper and lower eyelid surgery together.

Blepharoplasty Dubai

Fillers in Dubai | 16 May 2020

I am passionate about skin and fuss-free beauty. I have put together this brief guide of some of the most popular skin and aesthetic concerns which I see regularly in clinic. Over time I will continue to expand and update my dataset in order to provide you with concise and accurate information. Don’t forget to visit my website for more guides, news and blogs.

FOREHEAD WRINKLES & FROWN LINES

Forehead wrinkles are horizontal lines that appear on the forehead due to contraction of the muscles that raise the eyebrows. Frown lines are verticle wrinkles that appear between the eyes when you squint or frown. Both these wrinkles initially appear when you are moving the muscles responsible but over time can become ingrained and apparent even when your face is still. Whilst natural, most people seek treatment as they feel these lines make them look grumpy, anxious or even angry.

What Causes Forehead Wrinkles & Frown Lines?

Both forehead wrinkles and frown lines are predominantly caused by ageing. As we get older we lose both collagen and elastin. These two proteins form the scaffolding of the skin. Hence, they are responsible for keeping your skin firm, elastic and plump. As thin becomes thinner and less stretchy, wrinkles develop. Initially, this is when the muscles underlying them contracts such as when you raise your eyebrows or frown. Eventually, forehead wrinkles and frown lines become deeper and visible even when you aren’t moving your face. Sun damage, or photoaging, are also a cause.

Treatment Options For Forehead Wrinkles & Frown Lines

Thankfully there are a number of treatment options for forehead wrinkles and frown lines. The first step is to ensure that you have a good skincare routine which helps hydrate, nourish and protect your skin.

Botox® For Forehead Wrinkles & Frown Lines

Botox® injections are highly effective for wrinkles and lines that are only apparent when you make an expression. The treatment is quick and pain-free with results lasting for 3-4 months.

Dermal Fillers For Forehead Wrinkles & Frown Lines

If your wrinkles and lines are deeper and appear at rest then Botox® is likely to not completely smooth them out. Dermal filler anti-wrinkle injections, however, can very effectively treat these areas and results last between 6-12 months.

Professional Skin Treatments For Frown Lines & Forehead Wrinkles

Botox® and dermal fillers offer immediate smoothing out of lines and wrinkles by reducing muscle contraction (Botox®) or by filling out and lifting the skin (dermal fillers). Professional skin treatments are really useful if you’re looking to address the underlying cause of wrinkles in the long term. A combination of a course of chemical peels and microneedling will resurface the skin and induce collagen and elastin production. This will smooth out lines and wrinkles, firm and plump up the skin as well as give a youthful glowing complexion. In the long term, these bespoke skin rejuvenating treatments could reduce the need for treatments like Botox and dermal fillers.

CROW’S FEET & SMILE LINES

Crow’s feet, also known as smile lines, are wrinkles that appear on the outer corners of the eye. They are caused by contraction of the muscles responsible for squinting, smiling, laughing or frowning. Initially, these wrinkles are only visible when you smile or laugh but over time, like all wrinkles, they become deeper. Ingrained Crow’s feet and smile lines are visible whether or not you contract the underlying muscles (ie even when you’re resting the muscles of expression). Crow’s feet can also extend upwards towards the temple and downwards to affect the cheeks when they are more advanced and as volume is lost in these areas of the face with age.

What Causes Crow’s Feet & Smile Lines?

The main reason Crow’s feet or smile lines develop is due to loss of collagen and elastin in the skin. These proteins are the skin’s natural plumpers and provide elasticity. Hence losing them causes skin to become thinner and for wrinkles to become apparrent. Loss of colllagen and elastin occurs naturally as we age. Of course, the other cause of the appearance of wrinkles is sun damage (or photageing).

Treatments For Crow’s Feet & Smile Lines

First of all its important to start with basics like understanding your skin type and following a basic skincare routine. Simple lifestyle modifications such as sun protection, keeping hydrated and stopping smoking will also help slow down the development of Crow’s feet or smile lines.

Chemical Peels & Collagen Induction Therapy

There are a number of effective treatments for existing Crow’s feet and smile lines. The simplest option for very early signs of fine lines and wrinkles would be a course of chemical peels and/or microneedling. These resurface the skin and induce collagen and elastin production. 

Botox Injections

If you have Crow’s feet that are only evident on making expression, these can be treated very easily with Botox anti-wrinkle injections. For Crow’s feet or smile lines that are deeper (ie visible without making any expressions), then using hyaluronic acid dermal fillers would provide a better option.

Dermal Fillers

For more advanced Crow’s feet or under eye wrinkles and tear trough deformities, a combination of different dermal fillers can offer a natural looking solution. If you have smile lines that extend deep onto the cheeks, then you might which to consider both cheek fillers and wrinkle smoothing with dermal filler in order to restore volume and lift the wrinkles. For co-existing under eye hollows and wrinkles, the addition of tear trough fillers would help to completely rejuvenate the under eye area.

JAWLINE CONTOURING & SQUARE JAW REDUCTION

The shape of the jaw is dependent on the bone, muscles, fat and skin the comprise it. There are many factors that affect the appearance of the jaw including genetics and lifestyle. Some people seek to enhance the shape of the jaw (usually if there is sagging of the lower face or if they are seeking a more defined appearance) by having jawline contouring. This can widen or narrow and shorten or lengthen the appearance of the jawline as required. Jawline contouring can also help lift and firm up the appearance of a sagging lower face. For those with a wide jaw, square jaw reduction can help produce a narrower V-shaped jawline. Ultimately, the results are dependent on your face shape, targets and the abilities of your aesthetic doctor.

What Causes The Appearance Of A Sagging Or Square Jaw?

The shape of the lower face is made up of several structures including your jaw bones, muscles and soft tissues like fat or skin. Whilst genetics play a huge part in terms of the shape and size of these facial structures, there are a number of other factors that come in to play. The main cause for lack of definition or sagging of the jawline is ageing and reduced face volume. One of the main reasons for developing a square jaw in both men and women can be overactivity of the chewing muscles which is usually caused by tooth grinding. Other factors that can give the appearance of loss of definition, jawline sagging or a square jaw is ageing and loss of volume in the cheeks or lack of chin prominence or neck sagging.

Non-Surgical Jawline Contouring & Square Jaw Reduction

There are a number of non-surgical options for enhancing the jawline and reducing a square jaw. Botox injections are an effective treatment for square jaw reduction which also has the benefit of stopping teeth grinding. These Botox injections can also be used to lift a sagging neck and hence sculpt the lower face and jawline.

Hyaluronic acid dermal fillers can be used alone or in combination with Botox for jawline contouring. Dermal fillers can be used to directly reshape the jawline and lift up the lower face. A combination of jawline, cheek and chin dermal fillers to contour the jawline and the whole face. 

If the aim is to reduce the appearance of a square jaw or face, then a combination of Botox and dermal fillers can be used to provide a more contoured and V-line jaw appearance.

JOWLS & MARIONETTE LINES

Jowls are loose skin and flesh that hang beneath the lower jawline. Marionette lines or “puppet lines” are lines that run from the corners of the mouth to the chin. Both are a sign of ageing and volume loss in the face. One of the most commonly cited reasons for wanting to get rid of them is because they give the appearance of being grumpy or sad.

What Causes Jowls & Marionette Lines?

The main cause of both jowls and marionette lines is ageing. As we get older our skin becomes thinner and less pliable. This is due to loss of collagen and elastin. At the same time, we also lose volume in the face (particularly in the midface area) which provides scaffolding and shape. Both these processes result in sagging of the skin and tissues which gives rise to jowls and marionette lines in the lower face. Other factors which exacerbate skin ageing are smoking, sun-damage and genetics.

Treatment Options For Jowls & Marionette Lines

There are a number of treatment options for jowls and marionette lines. First of all, it is very important to ensure that you follow a regular skincare routine tailored to your skin type. Two highly effective and non-surgical options that I offer are Botox® and hyaluronic acid dermal fillers. Which of these (if any) is suitable for you will depend on your expectations and the severity of the lines.

Botox® For Jowls & Marionette Lines

For moderate jowls, I offer jawline tightening with Botox®. This treatment can soften the appearance of early jowling and provide a more defined jawline and sculpted neck. Whilst its possible to soften the appearance of marionette lines with Botox®, I do not think that this is the most effective treatment on its own. However, in some circumstances, I combine Botox with dermal fillers for treating marionette lines.

Dermal Fillers For Jowls & Marionette Lines

Since both Jowls and Marionette lines are caused by volume loss and sagging skin in the face, dermal fillers provide the opportunity to treat the underlying problem. For moderately severe lines, I can directly inject hyaluronic acid dermal filler into and around these creases to soften and minimize their appearance. For more severe jowling and marionette lines, I recommend hyaluronic acid dermal fillers to the cheeks to lift the face in addition to adding filler to the areas themselves.

If you have both jowls and marionette lines as well as other signs of ageing such as upper face wrinkles, then you can opt for a combination of Botox® and dermal fillers as part of my liquid facelift package.

LOSS OF FACE VOLUME

The whole mark of a younger face is one with thick, plump and firm skin. Additionally, younger faces have fuller volumes due to the size and location of the facial fat pads. As we age, our faces lose their fullness because of thinning of the skin, loss of elasticity and shrinking in size of the facial fat pads. This loss of face volume results in the appearance of lines, wrinkles and sagging of the face.

What Causes Loss Of Face Volume?

The main cause of facial volume loss is ageing. Over time, our body produces less collagen, elastin and the fat pads in the face reduce in size. This results in thinner and less pliable skin as well as sagging of the face. Similarly, changes in hormonal profile, in particular, oestrogen, can help accelerate this process. Lifestyle factors such as smoking and sun damage also contribute to skin ageing as well as loss of facial volume.

How Does Losing Volume Affect The Appearance Of Your Face?

Loss of skin volume leads to thinner and less elastic skin. This gives rise to wrinkles and uneven texture. At the same time, reduction in the volume of the fat pads, as well as their descent with gravity, occurs. This gives rise to a flatter profile and sagging of the skin in the mid and lower face. Hence this can lead to a gaunt appearance. It is due to this loss of facial fat volume that gives rise to tear trough deformities, hollowing of the temples, malar flattening, nose to mouth lines, jowls and marionette lines.

How To Add And Restore Volume To Your Face Naturally

In my opinion, hyaluronic acid dermal fillers are highly effective for restoring facial volume. This is because they can replace lost volume, help firm up and lift skin, smooth down wrinkles and deliver natural looking results. How much, which type of filler and where to pace them depends on the degree of facial volume loss and your overall face shape. 

The main ways Dermal fillers can help with face volume loss are:

– Cheek fillers for contouring and midface lifting

– Tear trough fillers for undereye circles and shadows

– Restoration of lip shape, definition and volume with lip fillers

– Combat sagging, marionette lines and jowls with jawline and lower face fillers

Additionally, face fillers can be combined with Botox as part of my signature liquid facelift to refresh and smooth the face. Collagen induction therapy can also boost the effects of dermal fillers by inducing elastin and collagen formation for thicker and plumper skin.

NECK SAGGING & WRINKLES

As we age, the skin on the neck loses collagen and elastin. This leads to thin and less pliable skin on the neck which gives rise to wrinkles. Loss of fat and skin thickness also leads to the appearance of neck sagging. This is further exacerbated by the shortening and loosening of the platysma muscle around the neck hence causing sagging and banding. The main neck complaint that I see is neck sagging with visible bands as well as wrinkling of the skin.

Treatment Options For Neck Sagging & Wrinkles

Thankfully there are a number of treatment options for forehead wrinkles and frown lines. The first step is to ensure that you have a good skincare routine which helps hydrate, nourish and protect your skin.

Botox® Non-Surgical Neck Lift For Neck Sagging & Bands

Botox® anti-wrinkle injections are highly effective for smoothing out wrinkles and lines on the skin. Furthermore, Botox® can be injected to relax the platysma muscle as well as other muscles that pull on the neck or jawline. This procedure is known as the Botox® non-surgical neck lift. The effect of this is that it lifts and sculpts the neck as well as jawline. The treatment takes 3-4 weeks to work and last for 3-4 months.

Dermal Fillers For Neck Wrinkles

If the main concern is deep lines or wrinkles on the face and a sagging jawline, then dermal fillers provide an ideal non-invasive procedure. Hyaluronic acid dermal fillers smooth put wrinkles and can also be used to sculpt the jawline and lower face and upper neck.

UNDER EYE CIRCLES, BAGS & TEAR TROUGHS

These are all very common areas of concern for both men and women. Under eye circles are dark patches that are visible under the eye. Depending on cause and skin tone, these can look like shadows or discolouration that’s red, blue or green in hue. Under eye bags on the other hand, are swollen pockets or patches under the eye. Both under eye circles and bags can either occur separately or alone. They may also be caused by or exasperated by the presence of a tear trough (this is a loss of fat tissue leading to hollowness under the eye). The most common complaints people tend to have with under eye circles, bags or tear trough deformities is that they give the appearance of tiredness.

What Causes Under Eye Circles, Bags & Tear Troughs?

There are a number of genetic and environmental causes that give rise to under eye circles, bags and tear trough deformities. Some people are more predisposed to developing these and whether they affect other members of your family is a good indicator of your risk. Your skin tone may also play a role. Paler skin tones tend to show up blood vessels more readily and thus give the impression of bluish discolouration under the eyes. Darker skin tones may exhibit increased pigmentation in the under eye area which gives the appearance of shadowing. Aside from genetics, other common causes include:

Ageing: as we get older, the skin under the eyes loses its thickness and elasticity. This thinner and more fragile skin is more likely to show underlying muscles and blood vessels which also gives the appearance of dark circles under the eyes. Sun damage can also cause dark pigmentation under the eyes as well as accelerate skin ageing. Fat loss and reduced skin laxity can also cause under eye bags to appear more prominent. Loss of fat under the skin and skin ageing can also give rise to tear trough deformities.

Diet: deficiencies in Vitamins C and K as well as iron are thought to present with discolouration under the eyes. Diets high in salt can also increase fluid retention which can increase the prominence of under eye bags.

Sleeping: or rather lack of, can result in worsening of under eye circles and bags.

Dehydration: reduced water intake, excess caffeine and alcohol can all cause volume depletion in the skin and lack of laxity.

Sun damage and smoking:  this can cause increased pigmentation and skin ageing both of which give rise to dark under eye circles and bags.

Inflammation and allergies: this can cause puffiness, bags and under eye circles over time.

Treatment Options For Under Eye Circles, Bags & Tear Troughs?

Luckily, there are a wide range of treatment options if you suffer from under eye circles or bags. The first thing is to ensure that you have a good skincare routine which includes using an under eye cream that contains ingredients like Vitamin C, Vitamin K and ferulic acid which help with under eye circles. Another important skincare tip is to ensure that the under eye skin is kept moisturised so having hyaluronic acid in your under eye cream would help immensely.

If the problem is purely due to thin skin or pigmentation issues, then advanced skin treatments like chemical peels and collagen induction therapy can help brighten and firm up the under eye skin. For tear trough deformities and under eye bags, hyaluronic acid tear trough fillers can treat the hollowness under the eyes and rejuvenate the eye area. For more defined tear trough deformities, cheek fillers can help provide support for the tear trough fillers.

Fillers in Dubai

Tummy Tuck Dubai | 14 May 2020

Fillers in Dubai | 12 May 2020

How long does it take for dermal fillers to work?

You can expect the results of the procedure to be visible immediately after having the treatment. If there is any swelling then this should take a couple of weeks to settle down.

Is it possible to have an allergic reaction to dermal fillers?

Hyaluronic acid is a substance naturally found inside the human body so a reaction to this substance is extremely rare. Collagen stimulating fillers, such as Radiesse, are made from calcium, a substance also found naturally in the body so, again, reactions are very rare. Immediately after the treatment, there may be a slight redness, swelling, tenderness, a faint bubble like appearance and an itching sensation in the treated area. These side-effects are a normal result of the injection and will generally disappears gradually over a period of 7-14 days.

Should I expect to feel any pain after having dermal fillers injected?

Most patients won’t experience any pain after having dermal fillers. But some people may find they have a little bit of soreness and/or mild bruising at the injection sites. If you do experience any pain, bruising or swelling then you can treat this with an ice pack to reduce swelling and redness. I will apply local anaesthetic cream to the area before the injections to help keep any pain during the procedure to a minimum. The filler also has some local anaesthetic which makes the procedure very comfortable.

Can I take painkillers before having dermal filler injections?

It’s recommended to avoid anti-inflammatory painkillers before and after the procedure as these can thin the blood and increase the risk of bruising, swelling and bleeding. Ibuprofen and aspirin are the most well-known anti-inflammatory drugs; however, during your consultation it’s important that you let us know what medication you are taking so we can advise on possible contraindications.

Can I exercise after having dermal filler injections?

I recommend waiting at least a week after dermal fillers before doing any strenuous exercise to avoid the risk of infection. All strenuous exercise should be avoided, but it’s also recommended to avoid yoga as inverted positions, such as headstands, could also increase the risk of bruising and swelling.

How soon after having dermal fillers can I fly?

Although there is some concern that flying after having fillers can cause issues due to changing air pressure in the cabin, there is no evidence that this is the case. There should be no issue with flying after having dermal fillers.

How long is the recovery time after having dermal fillers?

Some people experience mild bruising and swelling after the procedure. If this occurs you can expect the bruising and swelling to wear off in a week or two. After the procedure you can expect to have slight redness around the treated area, which will last a few hours.

How soon after having dermal fillers can I sunbathe?

Sunbathing, sunbeds and intense heat (such as saunas and Turkish baths) should be avoided for 1 week after treatment. If you do go out in the sun, wear sunscreen at all times. You should also avoid exposing your skin to extreme cold for 1 week after treatment.

How soon after having dermal fillers can I touch my face?

Avoid touching the treated area for at least 6 hours after treatment. After that, the area can be gently cleansed and clean light make-up can be applied.

If I suffer from cold sores can I still have dermal fillers?

If you have a history of cold sores, there is a risk, due to the insertion of the needle into the skin, that the virus may be activated. This may cause a first outbreak of a cold sore or another eruption of a previous cold sore. Before your treatment, we advise you to take anti-viral medication. In the case of an outbreak of cold sores, please contact the clinic or seek medical advice.

What are some of the possible side-effects I should be aware of?

Rare but possible side-effects include redness, swelling, bleeding, bruising, pain, itching, infection, abscess formation. You can also experience lumpiness, prolonged firmness, nodule formation, granuloma formation, local necrosis, discolouration, allergic reaction and acne.

Rarely a scab can form at the treatment site, which can result in a scar. Treatment around the eyes and upper face can also result in swelling, bruising, lumpiness, discolouration, infection, abscess formation, scar formation, haemorrhage of the eyes, double vision and loss of vision.

Dermal fillers are one of the most widely used treatments for restoring smoothness and facial volume. Injected by an expert healthcare professional, they fill in space and absorb water to create a smoother, fuller appearance or enhance the contours of the face.

A common complaint of ageing skin is the general loss of volume in the face and less ‘bouncy’ skin. As we age, our supplies of collagen and elastin decline, and the fibres themselves become weaker and less springy. The surrounding fluids that cushion and support these fibres also begin to ‘dry up’ resulting in wrinkles, ridges, and a general loss of volume in the skin. While injecting neurotoxins, such as botulinum toxin, will help smooth out wrinkles caused by muscle movement, only a dermal injectable can address the depressions and loss of volume associated with ageing. This is why dermal fillers are most commonly used to fill nasolabial folds, marionette lines (from the edge of the mouth to the chin), the jawline, cheeks, lips and the under eye area.

What are dermal fillers?

Dermal fillers come in various formulations, each of which works differently in softening the lines, folds, creases and loss of volume associated with age and/or exposure to environmental aggressors. Fillers are also effective for augmenting contours of the face; to create fuller lips, a more defined jawline or plumper cheeks for example. The most popular fillers are derived from hyaluronic acid, a water-binding sugar that is already produced in the skin. Hyaluronic acid fillers are usually well tolerated and the effects, if undesirable, can often be reversed by injecting an enzyme called hyaluronidase, which helps to dissolve hyaluronic acid fillers. Other fillers are composed of synthetically derived substances, such as calcium-based microspheres. However, these synthetic options cannot be reversed and the effects last longer, which could be problematic if the results are unfavourable. More recently, fillers have been created using the patient’s own cells with results lasting up to two years.

Who are dermal fillers for?

Fillers are appropriate for any skin type and address a multitude of age-related concerns, but only adults should have fillers, as they can inhibit bone structure if not fully developed at the time of injection. They can fill in hollows under the eyes and eliminate the depressions caused by deep creases, wrinkles, or scars, as well as plump up larger areas such as the cheeks and temples.

Recently, researchers have also discovered that injectables stimulate fibroblasts to synthesise additional collagen, so doctors are now increasingly seeing younger patients who use fillers as a preventative treatment to slow ageing¹. They are also popular for augmentation and contouring (fuller lips, a wider jawline, etc).

Fillers are not recommended to be used by pregnant or nursing women.

How do dermal fillers work?

A syringe needle injects a gel-like substance into the skin at various depths. A series of injections evenly disperses the filler. This filler substance fills up the area, resulting in improvements such as smoother nasolabial lines or fuller cheekbones. Although the discomfort associated with receiving dermal fillers is minimal, it is not entirely pain free. A treatment generally begins with the application of a numbing cream. After approximately 30 minutes, the numbing cream is removed and a series of injections are administered into the target areas. Certain areas may be more sensitive during injection. For example, under eye fillers may cause more discomfort to the patient than cheek fillers.

Some soreness, bruising, and swelling may occur in the days, or even weeks, following the procedure. Many factors affect the severity of these side effects, such as the speed of the injections and the site of injection. Another factor is the material used for the filler. Fillers that provide semi-permanent results, as often seen in cheekbone fillers, are associated with more swelling and discomfort. Due to the potential side effects associated with dermal fillers, it is important that they are performed by an experienced medical professional, such as a cosmetic dermatologist or cosmetic doctor. 

When should I get dermal fillers?

A single session of an injectable has the potential to last up to five years, depending on which kind of filler is used. Less permanent options, such as those composed of hyaluronic acid are more quickly absorbed, usually within 6 months. This especially holds true if the filler is injected in a region with a lot of movement.

Facial fillers do not increase sun sensitivity, making them a great year-round option. However, until the initial swelling has subsided, patients should avoid excessive heat exposure, including prolonged sun exposure.

It is recommended to incorporate an at-home skincare regimen after dermal fillers; always consult with your skincare professional for individual at-home advice.

CONTOURING AND REFINING FEATURES

When injected by an experienced professional, fillers also have the ability to contour and refine features. Lips can be augmented to reduce the lines that appear with aging, and small noses can be enlarged so that they balance nicely with other facial features. A flat chin can be injected with filler to provide a symmetrical profile. Fillers can provide a straighter nose for people who have a hump in the middle. Cheek bones can be injected to provide a natural-looking lift to the face. Although amazing results can be achieved with injectable fillers, it is the artist in control of the needle who determines the final outcome. It takes artistry, not just a licence, to sculpt the face in perfect harmony and proportions.

Not only can fillers be injected in a short period of time, but there is also little discomfort for the patient. Local anaesthetic is administered prior to the injections, and some brands even have the anaesthetic combined with the filler. Slight swelling or redness at the injection site may be experienced, but this is minimal, eliminating the need to take a few days off of work to heal. Another major benefit of injectable fillers is that they are affordable. Great results can be accomplished without breaking your pocket book.

THINGS TO KNOW IF YOU’RE CONSIDERING DERMAL FILLERS

Whether you are considering getting dermal fillers to smooth out wrinkles or enhance facial contours, a quick look at some criteria and facts will help you know you have come to the right place for your treatment.

Dermal fillers should be injected only by an experienced and qualified medical doctor. This procedure requires qualifications, experience, and an artistic edge, because 90% of the success of cosmetic procedures depends on who is doing them. For example, a bad haircut would indicate the level of experience of the stylist, not the scissors that were used. This is why it is extremely important to inquire about the credentials of your practitioner and ask to see before and after pictures. Getting a consultation first is advisable, as you would get a chance to see my facility and raise your questions or concerns with me.

YOUR EXPECTATIONS

Bringing a picture of your younger self to your appointment is helpful. However, bringing a picture of your favorite celebrity is not conducive. While you may see one aspect or feature of your face, it is important to know that a face has to be analysed in whole and not in part. The aim of the injectable procedure is to look naturally enhanced. It is also important to understand that each face has its own asymmetry. A good doctor can help bring more symmetry while keeping the overall aesthetics of the face visually pleasing. So make the most of your consultation by being open to recommendations. Your doctor sees in three dimensions, and you would benefit from exploring all your options.

THE ACTUAL PRODUCT

There are many types of dermal fillers on the market. But the most common of them are hyaluronic acid (HA) products. They have proven to produce natural and lasting results while maintaining fluidity to move with facial expressions. This line of dermal fillers also incorporates antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins to deliver further treatment benefits while filling and contouring the face.

HOW LONG THE RESULTS WILL LAST

Hyaluronic acid in dermal fillers also naturally occurs in the body and therefore gets metabolized eventually. Depending on the dermal filler chosen and whether or not this is the first time you are having a filler injected, you can expect results to last anywhere from 3 to 6 months. If for some reason you are not satisfied with the results, which is very rare, HA fillers are also dissolvable at your request by injecting an enzyme called hyaluronidase.

WHAT TO DO BEFORE AND AFTER THE INJECTION

It is always best to schedule your injectable appointments a couple of days to a week prior to any major event. With dermal filler injections, you will also need to take bruising and swelling into account. You can reduce this likelihood by stopping any supplements that can act like blood thinners such as fish oil and also some pain killers such as Aspirin, Aleve, Advil, etc., 2 weeks prior to your appointment.

After your dermal fillers treatment, follow the post-care instructions given, which include applying cold compresses, avoiding extremely cold or hot drinks, sun exposure, extreme temperatures, excess facial mimicry, and vigorous exercises. Being gentle is key.

Fillers in Dubai

Tummy Tuck Dubai | 10 May 2020

One variation of abdominoplasty is the mini-tummy tuck. This uses a shorter incision just at or above the pubic region, similar to the incision for a cesarean section. A mini tummy tuck is a modified tummy tuck that uses a C-section-like incision to tighten muscle and remove excess lower abdominal skin. The ideal candidate for a mini tummy tuck has most of his or her issues below the belly button, and it is usually recommended for patients who have always been in pretty good shape but have plateaued with diet and exercise.This procedure is ideal for people who have less excess tummy area skin or fat that is localized in the mid-abdomen area and want to tighten the abdominal area below the belly button.

Mini-Tummy Tuck vs. Full Tummy Tuck

Cosmetic Surgery Dubai | 7 May 2020

The brow lift is the method of choice for rejuvenative surgery of the upper third of the face. It can revitalise the entire forehead, smooth out frown lines and wrinkles, and restore the position of the eyebrows. A brow lift will also raise and tighten loose skin of the upper eyelid and open up the eyes. Although the forehead is much less prone to ageing and gravitational descent than the mid and lower third of the face, it is sometimes necessary to include the forehead in combination with eyelid surgeries or a facelift as part of a complete facial rejuvenation. Since the brow and forehead are close to the eyes, most concerns related to this zone stem from sagging brow tissues that in some way affect the eye area; either by drooping skin reducing the size of the eyes, heavy brows affecting their appearance or by physical impairment of upper eyelid function. The second most frequent concern relates to folds and frown lines in the central part of the forehead, which may communicate a heavy or fatigued appearance.

Reasons for lifting the forehead and brow tissues include reversal of the gradual age-related droop (ptosis) of soft tissue which is a natural process of facial ageing, though more pronounced in some individuals. Secondly, brow lifts can be used to adjust a congenitally low and heavy brow and correct asymmetry (due to conditions such as facial palsy where lack of muscle function will result in an asymmetric sagging of forehead soft tissue).

Forehead and brow rejuvenation

Forehead and brow rejuvenation is customised to suit individual features: lifting of the brow, repositioning of descended tissues, adjustment of skin, and modulation of the muscle function responsible for lines and creases. The forehead, brow and eyes are areas where gentle adjustments can lead to major improvements. A lift of just 4-6 mm is often sufficient to open up the eyes and restore the youthful position of the eyebrows. Forehead rejuvenation usually requires lifting the outer half of the brow, as the mid-section is anatomically more stable and less prone to gravitational descent. A delicate upwards curve of the brow is aesthetically appealing. The overall aim is to position the outer part (end point) of the brow slightly higher than the inner part (the start point) with a gentle arch in-between.

Cosmetic Surgery Dubai

Breast Augmentation Dubai | 3 May 2020

Will breast augmentation dubai increase my risk of breast cancer?

This is one of the most frequently asked questions by women considering this surgery. Many studies have shown that women who get implants are not at an increased risk for getting breast cancer. In addition, implants do not delay the detection of breast cancer. Finally, breast implant patients who do get breast cancer have the same chance of obtaining remission, or being free of cancer for 5 years, as women without implants.

Am I too old for the surgery?

Many women in their 40s and 50s have undergone breast augmentation dubai surgery with good results. The most common patient for this surgery is a woman in her 30s with two children who has been considering this operation for many years. Whatever your stage in life, we encourage you to schedule a consultation to find the best path toward your cosmetic goals.

Should I wait until I am done having children to have breast augmentation dubai?

Pregnancy will change the size and shape of a woman’s breasts whether she has implants or not. These changes may adversely affect the cosmetic appearance of any augmented breast. It is usually recommended that pregnancy be postponed until 6 months after the surgery. Breast-feeding with implants is still possible and has been shown to be safe for the baby and the mother.

Will breast augmentation dubai work for me if I feel my breasts are sagging?

Women with sagging breasts, which is called “ptosis”, can also receive breast implants. Depending on how much the breast sags, an additional surgery may also be necessary. For breasts with nipples that droop below the lower crease of the breast, a breast lift surgery, or mastoplexy, is often required as well. This surgery will also add scars all the way around the nipple-areola unlike most breast augmentation surgeries. Without this additional surgery to remove excess skin, placement of the implant may not adequately correct the sagging.

How do I choose my new size?

This is often one of the most difficult decisions, and for many reasons, has the most potential for disappointment. During your consultation, I will work with you to identify what size of breast you desire from augmentation. “Breast size” as measured by bra-size is variable and is often not a good way to measure final size. As a general rule, every 125-150cc of implant volume equals an increase in a single cup size. However, every patient’s body is different, you can set obtainable and healthy expectations together. It is helpful for you to bring in a bra the size you would like to be to help in finding the right sized implant for you.

Will my nipple sensation or feeling change?

Most women will have loss of some feeling or sensation following breast augmentation dubai surgery. For most of them, this lasts 6-12 months before returning to normal. 15% of women, however, have permanent alterations in nipple sensation.

How long until I can exercise?

It is recommended that patients begin walking immediately after surgery. However, women should not perform any intense physical exercise for six weeks following the operation. Physical exercise including weight lifting, biking, jogging, and other forms of intense activities may cause implants to shift position or cause wound healing problems that may alter the appearance of the breasts after surgery.

When can I return to work?

This depends on your job and its physical demands. Some general guidelines are: Upper arm movements, like reaching, should be avoided for the first 1-2 weeks. Lifting anything heavier than 5 pounds should be avoided for 6 weeks after the operation. This lifting restriction may prevent some women from returning to work.

How much pain can I expect?

The pain from breast augmentation dubai  surgery is usually in the moderate range and generally can be well controlled with medication in the first 1-2 weeks following the surgery. It is important to note that severe or untreatable pain following surgery can mean infection or another complication.

When can I drive?

Women may start driving a car one week after surgery as long as they are not taking any pain medications.

Will the new implants affect my physical functioning, can I lift heavy objects?

It is unlikely that you will experience long term changes in physical functioning. Depending on the size of the implant, most women find no trouble performing most physical activities following the surgery. Weight lifting or lifting heavy objects will not affect the implant once the area has properly healed.

Can I breast feed after augmentation?

Yes. Placement of the implant below the breast tissue, as in subglandular placement, does not affect the ability of the breast to produce milk. Similarly, submuscular placement, or implant placement below one of the chest muscles preserves proper breast functioning. With the peri-areolar incision, an increased risk of breast-feeding problems may exist. In one study, 7/8 patients reported problems with breast-feeding following peri-areolar breast augmentation surgery. For women who choose the infra-mammary or trans-axillary incision, (incisions under the breast and through the armpit), breastfeeding is usually not a problem. Be sure to discuss your breast feeding needs with your surgeon during your consultation.

Will I need additional surgeries?

Sometimes additional surgeries may be required for breast augmentation dubai  patients. To reach optimal symmetry, you may desire follow up breast lifts or other supporting procedures. Additional surgeries may be needed if you face any complications during your augmentation, like implant rupture or capsular contracture. In addition, implanted breasts will age just like any other body part and in the future some woman choose to have additional operations to correct the results of gravity and aging. During your consultation, you and your surgeon should discuss the possibility of additional procedures after breast augmentation.

Breast Augmentation Dubai | End

Fillers in Dubai | 1 May 2020

Today both injectables and fillers are commonplace treatments to eliminate facial wrinkles. However, unlike injectables which temporarily paralyse active muscle, fillers are used to plump the problem area to lift and soften the appearance wrinkles.  Injectable fillers can be used to plump the lips, enhance hollow areas of the face, soften fine lines and wrinkles, and improve the appearance of settled scars. Fillers are a great option for those with these aesthetic issues, but do not want to undergo an invasive surgery.

Ideal candidates for fillers are in general good health, do not smoke, and are realistic about the outcome of their procedure. It is important that patients understand what fillers can and cannot do for them so they are fully aware of the results. For example, fillers cannot achieve the same results as a facelift or a forehead lift. There are many different fillers available on the market today including Juvederm, Restylane, Perlane, Belotero, Bellafill and Radiesse.

Juvederm, Restylane, Perlane, Voluma and Belotero are hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers, which is a substance that occurs naturally in the body. Radiesse is not a HA filler, but is meant for the body to create volume through the use of the body’s own inflammatory process. Bellafill is a permanent filler. Because injectable fillers are minimally invasive, there is no scarring involved with treatment.

I also offer fat grafting injections as an option at my practice. For this technique, a patient’s own fat can be harvested from another location on their body to be used as a natural filler. If a patient has a substantial amount of fat on another remote location of the body, it can be liposuctioned to be harvested. Of course, this creates a secondary surgery site which may be associated with additional complications or scarring. It is best to determine during a consultation if this option is right for you.

When a patient desires a filler injection treatment, I will first evaluate the patient’s facial structure and skin tone to get a better feel for where the filler should be placed. I will then inject the filler into the designated areas. Most patients tolerate the injections well, though some do ask for a topical numbing cream to be applied beforehand. The entire injection process can take anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour, depending on the number of areas that need treatment.

After treatment, I recommend that patients use an ice pack to reduce any swelling that may occur. There is typically no downtime required after being treated with injectable fillers. With most treatments, the results are immediate, however, how long it lasts depends on the type of filler being used.

1 May 2020 | Fillers in Dubai