What Is a Tummy Tuck?
Tummy Tuck Dubai | 8 April 2019
A “tummy tuck,” aka an abdominoplasty, targets two main issues: excess skin and a separation between the abdominal muscles. As a bonus, it also takes care of excess fat. It doesn’t really matter how much fat you have, what really matters for this procedure is the skin and the muscle. While also removing excess fat via liposuction (more on that later), the first differentiating factor of a tummy tuck is that it can help target the excess skin or stretch marks from pregnancy or a significant weight loss. In fact, experts say a tummy tuck may be the only way to get rid of loose, sagging skin. Once the elastic gets too loose, you can put a safety pin in it, but by and large, the elastic is shot. Then there’s the muscle issue. We’re all born with a little separation between both sides of the rectus muscle, [aka your ‘six pack’] — maybe a half an inch or so. But with age, certain lifestyle factors, and definitely pregnancy, that muscle separates further. The result is like the loosening of a corset. Unfortunately, once these muscles spread, the only true way to “bring them back” is via surgery. A tummy tuck brings the muscle edges together, which acts like an internal corset, pulling your belly in.
The Steps of a Tummy Tuck
First, a surgeon “will make an incision, which stretches across your bikini line. Through this incision, your surgeon will not only be able to remove skin but will also be able to tighten your abdominal muscle. The surgeon will lift your skin away from the underlying muscles and then stitch the muscles together, restoring the tightness.
Next, the surgeon will address the skin, pulling it tight and removing any excess. To picture this, think of your stomach as a football field running from your chest to the top of your pubic hair – your belly button is the middle of it. In a full tummy tuck, the skin that’s above the belly button gets pulled down and does double duty to cover the upper and lower abdomen. So if you have a mole above your belly button before the operation, it’s going to be below it after. Speaking of belly buttons, don’t worry, it’s not suddenly going to be sitting on your bikini line. The surgeon will make a new hole for your belly button to emerge from.
Mini vs. Full Tummy Tuck
How involved this whole process gets depends on the type of tummy tuck in question — a “mini” or a full: A mini runs from inner thigh to inner thigh and a full spans the stomach from hip to hip. The difference between the two procedures is the length of the incision and the amount of skin that can be removed. (One other difference: In a mini tummy tuck, the surgeon usually only stitches up the lower half of the rectus muscles.) While they’re in there, surgeons might also address any excess fat, removing it the way they would during traditional liposuction. Before finishing the procedure, the surgeon places drains in your stomach to remove any extra fluid that accumulates as you heal, allowing the newly stretched skin to stick to the muscle. (The drains will be removed by your surgeon after about a week.)
The Recovery Process
Even though it’s major surgery — you’ll be under anesthesia for the two-and-a-half to four hours it takes to perform — tummy tucks are technically out-patient procedures, meaning you can go home after spending a couple hours in the recovery room. But you will have to do a lot of recouping after you get home. I generally advise my patients to take two weeks off of work. Light walking right after surgery is advised, but no hitting the gym for at least two weeks. By about five weeks, the patient can usually return to normal activities depending on their individual progress. The recovery process can be painful. It will take a few days to a week before you feel comfortable standing fully erect. Patients often walk slightly bent over due to the tightness of their abdomens.
Who Is a Candidate?
Not everyone is a tummy tuck candidate. This procedure is most commonly performed on women in their 40s and 50s, after they have finished having children. Remember, it has nothing to do with fat. The muscle repair and skin removal are the differentiating factors of the surgery. So, for those who might have excess fat, but not muscle separation or loose skin, or for those who plan on having children, doctors don’t recommend a tummy tuck. I looked at large volumes of statistics, and about 55 percent of women that come in the door [with concerns about their stomach] have liposuction, while about 45 percent need a tummy tuck. In males, it’s about 90 percent that end up needing liposuction and only about 10 percent that are better candidates for tummy tucks. Identifying which procedure is right for you — noninvasive body-sculpting, liposuction, mini or full tummy tuck — can be tricky, unless you’re a board-certified plastic surgeon. There are different roles for each procedure,.
How Does the Tummy Tuck Compare to Body-Sculpting Procedures?
If you’re hoping to get tummy tuck-like results on your lunch break, you’re out of luck. Noninvasive procedures can’t come close to achieving the results of a tummy tuck. In short, body-contouring procedures, like CoolSculpting and SculpSure, are surface level. They work by either freezing or heating fat cells to kill them off, which is great for stubborn squishy spots no amount of diet and exercise seem to effect, but won’t do anything to address the sagging skin or underlying muscle separation the tummy tuck targets. If a patient’s primary issue is excess fat, noninvasive options can usually reduce superficial fat by 25 percent, on average. So, for someone who does not need dramatic fat reduction, non-invasive options may be reasonable.
Or Liposuction?
But what about lipo? Liposuction can remove significantly more fat than noninvasive body contouring, but that’s all it can do. Liposuction will only remove fat. It will not tighten loose muscles. Plus, if you’re concerned about loose skin, liposuction can actually make the problem worse. I think many patients look to new technology hoping to avoid surgical costs and downtime but patients who would really benefit from a tummy tuck will be frustrated by how limited the difference is.
WHAT IS GYNAECOMASTIA?
Male Breast Reduction Surgery Dubai | 4 April 2019
Gynaecomastia is the benign (non-cancerous) growth of male breast tissue and can be due to a number of causes. It may be due to hormone imbalance or as a consequence of medication you are taking. It can also be due to alcohol excess or recreational drug abuse. Your doctor will discuss the cause of your gynaecomastia with you. Along with causing swelling of the breast and nipple, gynaecomastia can be uncomfortable and the nipple can become sensitive.
HOW CAN GYNAECOMASTIA BE TREATED?
Some cases of gynaecomastia will get better without any form of treatment. If one of your medications is thought to be causing the gynaecomastia, it may improve with changing or stopping a particular tablet. Your doctor will discuss this with you.
Whilst gynaecomastia itself can be uncomfortable and unsightly, it is not dangerous and no harm will come from having it. When cancer has been ruled out, many men are happy to have no treatment.
Another form of treatment is to have medication. These medications are often good at reducing discomfort and sensitivity but may not reduce the size of the breast.
The third form of treatment involves surgery to your breast.
SURGICAL TREATMENT OF GYNAECOMASTIA
There are three main surgical procedures which can be undertaken:
Liposuction
Liposuction is used to remove the fatty tissue under a general anaesthetic. Small incisions (cuts) are made on the chest wall. A small metal tube (cannula) is used to suck out the fatty tissue. The incisions are then sutured to give a flatter, firmer and better-contoured chest. Any stitches will be of the dissolving type and so do not need to be removed.
Excision of Gynaecomastia
In excisional surgery, I will make a cut around the nipple to remove the breast tissue. This may be combined with liposuction of the breast tissue at the same time.
Male Breast Reduction
If the breast is very large more tissue and skin may have to be removed. This will give more scars. The degree of scarring will depend on how much skin needs to be removed. I will advise you about this.
After Surgery
After surgery for gynaecomastia your breasts will look discoloured and feel firm and swollen. You may need to have a drain (a fine plastic tube) inserted into the breast during the operation. This will be removed seven days after your operation. You should be able to go home the same day. You may be advised to wear a corset for up to six weeks after the operation to help with the swelling. I will advise you where these can be bought. You will not be able to drive home after your operation and it may be two to three weeks before you can drive.
The dressings can be removed after 7-10 days and you should be able to return to work after two weeks. For the first three weeks after the operation, don’t lift anything heavy or do heavy manual work. Most men resume normal activities within two to three weeks.
Risks and Complications
All surgery carries with it some risk. Common side effects of a general anaesthetic include nausea and vomiting. As mentioned earlier, the chest can be swollen and bruised following the operation.
Specific Complications
Haematoma
This is bleeding into the tissues following surgery. It can occasionally lead to patients returning to theatre to stop the bleeding or remove the blood.
Wound infection
This can occur after any kind of surgery and may need treatment with antibiotics or a return to theatre. If your wound becomes red and inflamed you should contact your doctor.
Deep vein thrombosis
This can happen after any operation or general anaesthetic. The risks are reduced by wearing preventative stockings (TEDS) for two weeks.
Poor wound healing
With a male breast reduction problems may occur with the wound. The blood supply to the area around the vertical scar is at its poorest. This may delay healing and very occasionally the wound may break down and leave a small raw area. This gradually heals with time but may take several weeks.
Nipple complications
The operation by its nature partially disrupts some of the blood supply to the back of the nipple. There is a small risk therefore of the nipple dying resulting in its loss. There is a risk of loss or alteration in sensation to the nipple.
Asymmetry
There may be some lasting differences in the size and shape of your breasts following surgery. Most men are asymmetrical prior to the operation.
Scarring
Initially the scars will be bright red lines – in most cases the scars will heal satisfactorily and soften becoming much paler in time, usually within twelve months. Some patients have a tendency to form red and lumpy scars or keloid scars which are broad raised scars. Such scarring will be permanent.
FOLLOW UP
You will be given an appointment to return to the clinic in 7-10 days where the dressings and drain(s) will be removed and the wounds inspected. You will also be reviewed approximately six weeks after your surgery once the bruising and swelling has completely settled.
LONG TERM OUTLOOK
If lipofilling is performed and only fat is removed, weight gain can make the gynaecomastia return. If the breast tissue itself is removed, as in the excision surgery or male breast reduction there is a chance the breast tissue can regrow. You will have medical photography before and after surgery of your chest. There will be nothing which will identify you to anyone else on these and they are used as a record of your treatment.
Breast Augmentation – Size Matters
Breast Augmentation Dubai | 29 March 2019
I offer additional peace of mind by only ever having worked with the finest quality breast implants. Today there are two main types of breast implants available: silicone gel-filled or saline-filled. There are advantages and disadvantages to both types and I will explain the best choice for your body at your consultation.
Breast Implant Sizes and Shape
All my patients’ needs are unique, I will talk to you at length about your breast profile and the look you wish to achieve, listen to your needs, offer you advice and help you decide which breast implant is right for you in terms of your size and shape.
Size Matters
The size of your new breasts will be affected by the diameter of the implant (determining the ‘fullness’ of your breasts) and its projection (how ‘prominent’ you’d like your breasts to appear). Implants can be chosen by diameter and have the option of three projections, leading to a more tailored solution for you. My comprehensive range of breast implants include 100s of different sizes and shapes and I will assist you in making your ultimate choice.
Round implants are sometimes perceived to produce a more ‘fake’ or ‘augmented’ look, this is just a common misconception and their popularity is testament to their success. The round implant is the implant of choice in many countries and is suitable for the majority of patients. In the unlikely event a round implant ‘turns’ in its pocket, it will remain symmetrical and not distort the shape of the breast.
Anatomical breast implants are shaped like a teardrop. Designed to follow the body’s natural lines and produce a more natural looking breast, they have more volume at the bottom than the top and appear more oval when viewed from the front. Although initially brought into practice for use in reconstruction surgeries, they’re now widely used for breast augmentation purposes and often an appropriate choice for women with very little breast volume or for those who have a particular chest anatomy. It is possible for anatomical implants to ‘turn’ or flip in the pocket. If this does occur the rotation will cause the breast to look lopsided. For this reason, all anatomical implants are designed with a textured surface that adheres to the tissue, helping to keep the implant in place.
Breast Augmentation Recovery
Breast Augmentation Dubai | 24 March 2019
I want you to be as comfortable as possible following your surgery. I will guide you through exactly what to expect following when recovering during your consultation, so you can prepare and know exactly what to expect. The length of your recovery process depends on your health and other variables. During the first 48 hours, you may have an elevated body temperature and swelling. This is expected and both should return to normal over time. Your breast implants need to be held in their new position, so you will require a surgical support bra to stay in place for a two to four-week period after breast enlargement surgery. During this time, you must restrict your activity to ensure the breast implants are not disturbed. I will sometimes recommend the use of an upper pole strap to hold your breasts in the desired position.
Advice
- Sleep or rest with your head slightly elevated, avoiding lateral positions. Keep your arms close to your body, and avoid lifting weights until allowed by myself.
- Do not drive for at least 2 days after your surgery, and do not exercise until approved by me usually 4-6 weeks.
- Do not expose your breasts directly to sunlight until approved by me.
- Healing cream may be recommended by me.
Your first post-operative consultation will take place approximately seven to 10 days after your surgery.
Breast Enlargement with Implants
Breast Augmentation Dubai | 14 March 2019
A breast enlargement, also known as a BBA – bilateral breast augmentation, mammoplasty or boob job is a surgical breast enhancement procedure carried out by a specialist surgeon to increase the volume of the breasts. Breast enlargement is a popular procedure that uses breast implants, fat transfer or a combination of the two to boost the size and profile of your breasts, improve your body confidence and fit of clothing and enhance breast shape following weight loss, pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Most people find that breast augmentation has a really positive impact on their life and achieves the looks that they desire. I want you to feel comfortable and confident about every aspect of breast enlargement surgery, it’s a big decision. We always listen to any concerns you may have and give you all the information and time you need to think about your surgery. And, we’ll be here, caring for you every step of the way.
Is a tummy tuck right for you?
Tummy Tuck Dubai | 10 March 2019
Before undergoing any type of procedure, be sure to consult with me to discuss what’s involved with the operation, how you should prepare for it, the risks involved and what you can expect during recovery. After undergoing a tummy tuck, you can expect both physical and psychological dividends. You’ll have the tighter, more toned stomach you always wanted, your clothes will fit you better, your workouts may be more satisfying and you should have a better quality of life.
What You Should Know About Wrinkle Fillers
Fillers in Dubai | 7 March 2019
Injectable wrinkle fillers can give you a more youthful look for a fraction of what a traditional facelift costs. Most will fill hollows, lines, and wrinkles in less than 30 minutes with results that can last from 4 months to more than a year. Injectable wrinkle fillers, unlike Botox injections that relax the muscle under a wrinkle, fill the line, crease, or area with one of several different substances. As a result, trouble spots nearly disappear. Wrinkle fillers can also be used as “volumizers,” plumping and lifting cheeks, chins, jawlines, and temples; filling out thin lips, and plumping sagging hands.
The treatment is fast and easy. But all wrinkle fillers have a downside, including the risk of allergic reaction and the formation of tiny bumps under the skin. In some cases, those bumps may be permanent. And sometimes, a bluish skin discoloration known as the Tyndall effect happens. The colour change can last for several months, but there are treatments available. Typically, the wrinkle fillers that last longer are the ones more likely to cause side effects. Not every wrinkle-filler is right for every type of wrinkle. The least risks and best results come from using the right one correctly. That’s why you should only have fillers injected by a plastic surgeon with ongoing, special training like myself.
Fillers in Dubai
How Long Do Filler Results Last?
Fillers in Dubai | 1 March 2019
How long the effects of dermal fillers will last depends on the product, the area of treatment, and the patient. Generally speaking, the denser the product is and the more deeply it is injected, the longer it will last, although this is not a hard and fast rule. To maintain your results, I will simply repeat treatment, adjusting the amount and techniques as necessary to ensure optimal results. Hyaluronic acid fillers tend to be the most temporary option, and therefore are often recommended for first-time filler patients. These will typically last from 6 to 18 months. Injections to the lips will wear out a little faster than those to the nasolabial folds. Certain HA fillers, such as VOLUMA, are formulated to last longer, but are usually limited to certain areas, such as the cheeks.
Synthetic fillers tend to last longer, as they are not absorbed by the body. They can be a great option for the right patient, but you’ll want to be ready to commit to results that will be there for several years—and choose an experienced, qualified provider whose aesthetic style you like. Fat injections are meant to last indefinitely; however, some of the injected fat is expected not survive. Initially, your cosmetic surgeon may overfill the treatment area, resulting in an initially fuller look that will gradually settle into a more natural appearance.
Medical Benefits of a Tummy Tuck
Tummy Tuck Dubai | 28 February 2019
Many of us are familiar with the cosmetic benefits of tummy tuck surgery. Also known as abdominoplasty, a tummy tuck is a surgical procedure that tightens stomach muscles and helps eliminate excess skin (or belly overhang) and abdominal creases.
Because the surgery is designed to result in a flatter and more toned stomach, patients typically opt for this procedure after pregnancy or after they’ve lost a significant amount of weight in a short time period. It’s an immensely popular surgery with numbers to back it up.
When is a tummy tuck medically beneficial?
Without a doubt, abdominoplasty offers plenty of cosmetic rewards. In actuality, a tummy tuck can also deliver medical benefits, especially when it becomes the required corrective surgical procedure for patients with certain conditions:
To correct a ventral hernia
A ventral hernia forms when your intestine or abdominal tissue breaks through your abdominal wall to create a type of pouch or sack. This hernia may develop for any number of reasons, such as abdominal weakness resulting from massive weight loss, an appendectomy or a cesarean section. Much like flattening your stomach, a tummy tuck can similarly correct a ventral hernia by addressing weakened abdominal muscles, thereby reducing pressure on your skin.
To reduce stress urinary incontinence
Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is a bladder control condition that happens when there is too much pressure on your bladder and urethra. SUI is characterized by uncontrollable leakage induced by sudden and forceful actions such as sneezing, coughing, laughing and exercising. The condition is ordinarily treated without the need for surgery, but studies have shown that a tummy tuck may help patients with SUI. The problem is mostly common for women, especially after giving a normal delivery, but can also affect men.
To decrease back pain
Back pain is another common problem that can be treated by abdominoplasty. After giving birth or a significant weight loss, women may complain of back pain resulting from weakened stomach muscles. In flattening the abdomen and removing excess stomach fat, a tummy tuck surgically tightens the weakened muscles, resulting in much-needed abdominal support that can alleviate your back pain.
To improve posture
A byproduct of stronger abdominal muscles and decreased back pain is improved posture. After a tummy tuck procedure, you may enjoy an improved posture due to the tightened muscles, giving more support to your spine.
Tummy Tuck Dubai
What are Fillers Made With?
Fillers in Dubai | 27 February 2019
There are a variety of filler products that cosmetic surgeons use. In general, fillers are categorized by the substance they are made from. A note for your safety: always make sure that you are receiving approved, brand name fillers, which are only available through a licensed physician.
Hyaluronic Acid (HA)
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance that is already found in your skin. It helps keep skin plump and hydrated. HA fillers are typically soft and gel-like. The results are temporary, lasting 6 to 12 months or longer before the body gradually and naturally absorbs the particles. Most HA fillers are infused with lidocaine to help minimize discomfort during and after treatment. FDA approved HA fillers include Juvéderm products: Juvéderm XC, VOLUMA, VOLBELLA, VOLLURE, Restylane products: Restylane, Restylane Silk, Restylane Lyft, Restylane Refyne, and Restylane Defyne, Belotero Balance
Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA)
Calcium hydroxylapatite is also a naturally occurring substance, found primarily in our bones. When used in a filler, the calcium particles are nearly microscopic and suspended in a smooth gel. The consistency of a CaHA filler is typically thicker than that of a hyaluronic acid filler and typically last longer as well, about 12 months for most patients. Calcium hydroxylapatite is also reported to help stimulate natural collagen production, and it is typically used for deeper lines and wrinkles. CaHA fillers include Radiesse®.
Poly-L-lactic Acid
Poly-L-lactic acid is a biocompatible (meaning it is safe to use in the body), biodegradable synthetic substance. It has been used for many years in medical devices, such as dissolvable stitches. Poly-L-lactic acid products are technically classified as “collagen stimulators,” as their main mechanism to smooth fine lines is by helping your skin rebuild natural collagen – the filler gel itself dissipates a few days after treatment. Poly-L-lactic acid is typically used to treat deeper facial wrinkles, and results can last more than 2 years. Approved Poly-L-lactic acid fillers include Sculptra® Aesthetic.
Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA)
Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) is a synthetic, biocompatible substance that has been used in medicine for much of the last century. In dermal fillers, PMMA takes the form of a “microsphere” or tiny ball, that remains beneath the skin indefinitely to provide continued support. PMMA fillers will also contain collagen, a naturally occurring substance in the skin that provides structure and firmness. Approved PMMA fillers include Bellafill® (formerly known as Artefill).
Autologous fat injections (facial fat grafting)
Autologous fat injections are the only injectable filler treatment that requires surgery, but results can last for many years. Your own fat is harvested from another area (autologous means “from the same person”), typically using liposuction. The fat is then purified and injected into the face to help restore volume to the cheeks, temples, lower eyelids, or other areas. Fat injections require specialized training to perform safely and achieve great results, and should only be performed by an experienced, board certified cosmetic surgeon.
Fillers in Dubai