After a Boob Job

Understandably, patients have a variety of questions when they consider undergoing breast augmentation. As well as the ins and outs of the procedure, a common question we get asked is whether you can exercise after a boob job.

In this blog, you’ll discover everything you need to know about exercising after a breast operation including whether you need to take a break, and the types of exercises you should avoid.

Will I need to take a break from exercising?

After undergoing breast augmentation surgery, it’s important to take care of your body during the recovery process. While it’s generally safe to engage in light walking, such as taking short walks around the house, you’ll want to avoid heavy exercise for a few weeks until your surgeon gives you the go-ahead.

Light walking is not only safe, but it’s encouraged as it can help to prevent blood clots. So, while you might need to take it easy when it comes to your exercise routine, don’t underestimate the benefits of simply getting up and moving around a bit to aid in your recovery.

Can I still exercise with implants?

If you’re worried that breast implants might limit your ability to stay active, don’t be. One of the great things about breast augmentation is that it doesn’t have to hold you back from doing the things you love. In fact, your surgeon will likely encourage you to maintain an active lifestyle after your surgery to help with your recovery.

During your consultation, you’ll need to discuss your lifestyle and exercise habits with your surgeon. This will help them determine the best type of implant and placement for you, as well as any precautions you should take when exercising post-surgery. It’s important to wear a supportive sports bra when exercising after a boob job, and to get clearance from your surgeon before trying a new activity.

It’s also worth noting that some women may experience changes in breast size or shape if they lose weight when they begin exercising again. However, breast implants themselves are not affected by changes in weight, meaning they can be an excellent option for restoring volume and shape to the breasts after weight loss.

What exercises should I avoid?

While you can resume very light exercise after the procedure, you’ll need to take it easy for a period of two to four weeks to allow the body to fully recover. If you are unsure, follow your surgeon’s advice.

Patience is key when it comes to post-surgery recovery. It’s important to wait until your body has fully healed before returning to the gym or engaging in any other strenuous activities. Going back to the gym too soon can lead to complications that can negatively impact your results and overall health.

Since implants are placed beneath or above the chest muscle, any exercise that puts pressure on your chest or back should be avoided. This includes exercises that target the chest and shoulders, as well as weightlifting or other activities that involve heavy lifting. Overexerting yourself too soon after surgery can lead to complications such as implant shifting, swelling, or even implant rupture.

To ensure the best possible results and minimise the risk of complications, it’s important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully. Always consult with them before resuming exercise to ensure that it is safe to do so.

By taking the necessary precautions and giving your body the time it needs to heal properly, you can help to ensure a successful and smooth recovery.

Blepharoplasty for Men

Each year, millions of men and women choose to undergo blepharoplasty, commonly referred to as eyelid surgery. However, despite its popularity, many people have no idea what it involves or why it is carried out.

If you’re wondering what blepharoplasty is and why it’s so popular, you can find out everything you need to know in today’s blog post.

What is blepharoplasty?

The eyes are often considered one of the most important features of a person’s face. That is why many people choose to undergo eyelid lift or blepharoplasty surgery to enhance their appearance. This delicate and complex procedure can create a dramatic improvement in the look of the eyes, as well as the overall appearance of the face.

There are two main types of blepharoplasty surgery: upper and lower. Upper blepharoplasty involves carefully removing excess skin and tissue from the upper eyelid through a small incision in the crease of the eyelid. This is an ideal solution for patients with droopy or sagging upper eyelids, which can create a tired or aged appearance.

In contrast, lower blepharoplasty is primarily used to address the appearance of under-eye bags or puffiness. This surgical technique involves a precise incision along the lower lash line, through which the surgeon can remove excess fat and tissue for a more youthful, smooth look.

By addressing the specific concerns of each patient, eyelid lift surgery can help to restore a more youthful, refreshed look to the eyes and face overall.

Why do men and women choose to undergo eyelid surgery?

There are a variety of reasons why patients choose to undergo blepharoplasty or eyelid surgery. Although the procedure is popular for cosmetic reasons, such as improving appearance and boosting confidence, there are also functional benefits. Eyelid surgery can correct drooping eyelids that obstruct the field of vision. Also, it can be performed on one side in order to correct asymmetry.

Some of the most common reasons patients choose to get eyelid surgery include:

  • To improve vision
  • To fix saggy eyelids
  • To remove puffy under eye bags
  • To improve results of another procedure
  • To restore the eyelid crease
  • To look more youthful
  • To improve dark circles under the eyes

Eyelid surgery is also one of the safest procedures you can undergo, resulting in minimal risks and complications.

What results can I expect from the procedure?

Immediately after the surgery, your eyelids may be red and puffy. However, any swelling and bruising should disappear within a week. You may also have blurry vision for a few days, this is completely normal.

Results should be visible after 4-6 weeks and will depend upon various factors. The surgeon will give you a good idea of what to expect during your consultation.

The popularity of blepharoplasty can be attributed to the significant benefits it offers to patients. The procedure is minimally invasive and has a relatively short recovery period. Certainly, it’s an option for those looking to enhance their appearance without undergoing extensive surgery.

If you are considering blepharoplasty, it is important to seek the guidance of a highly skilled and experienced surgeon. Mr. Nigel Horlock is a leading cosmetic surgeon with extensive experience in the procedure. Book a consultation today to determine if blepharoplasty could be an ideal treatment option for you.

Eyelid concerns

Blepharoplasty has become a popular choice for patients in recent years. This precise procedure can enhance not only the appearance of the eyelids, but also improve their function.

From smoothing wrinkles and removing excess skin, to improving vision, blepharoplasty offers a multitude of benefits. In this blog we will look at some of the top eyelid concerns that the procedure can fix, and why it’s important to choose a skilled surgeon.

What eyelid concerns can blepharoplasty fix?

Blepharoplasty can fix a wide range of eye-related issues. Here’s a rundown of some of the most popular problems the procedure can address…

Droopy eyelid concerns

One of the main goals of eyelid surgery is to correct droopy eyelids. Not only can droopy eyelids cause you to look older, but they can also cause issues with your range of vision. The procedure helps to correct the problem by eliminating excess skin and fat that is gathered in the upper or lower eyelid.

Persistent eye bags

If you have persistent eye bags that aren’t caused by a lack of sleep, blepharoplasty may help. It achieves a more youthful appearance, giving the eyes a brighter, wider effect. To eliminate puffy or visible bags, the surgeon focuses on fixing the lower eyelid area.

Wrinkles and fine lines

The eyes are often one of the first places to develop fine lines and wrinkles. This is down to how thin and sensitive the skin is in that area. Having blepharoplasty can help to smoothen out the entire area around the eyes, successfully eliminating lines and wrinkles.

These are just a few of the most common problems the procedure can fix. It can also work just as effectively as a facelift for helping you to look younger.

The importance of choosing a skilled surgeon

While there are clear benefits of undergoing blepharoplasty and it is a common procedure, the surgery itself is quite complex. There are many things that can go wrong, particularly if you choose an inexperienced surgeon. Just some of the potential problems you might face include:

  • Not being able to close your eyes properly after the surgery
  • The surgeon has removed too much fat
  • Your lower lid is left in the wrong place
  • Your eyes look uneven

If you want to achieve the best results and minimise the risk of complications, always choose a skilled and experienced surgeon.

My Nigel Horlock has carried out hundreds of blepharoplasty procedures. He will be able to advise you of the risks, and help you get the best results from the surgery. When done correctly, eyelid surgery can help you to regain your confidence, and achieve a more youthful, aesthetically pleasing look.

Better Cosmetic Results

Want to get the best results from your cosmetic procedure? It all starts with making sure you are fit and healthy.

Setting yourself health goals prior to going under the knife can help to reduce the risks, aid in recovery, and enhance your results. It is also a prerequisite for certain types of surgeries that you have a healthy BMI.

Here, we look at why getting healthier matters, and the types of health goals you should set to ensure you achieve the best cosmetic results.

Why is it important to get healthy before undergoing cosmetic surgery?

There are several reasons why it’s important to get healthy before undergoing cosmetic surgery. Healthy individuals have lower risks of complications during and after surgery, benefit from a quicker recovery, and experience better outcomes.

Pre-existing health conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes can also affect the healing process and increase the risk of complications, making it important to address those before going under the knife.

If you do experience any complications, it may hamper your results, as well as put you at risk of serious health issues.

Which procedures require a healthy BMI?

Certain types of surgeries require you to be healthier than others. For example, liposuction and tummy tuck procedures will produce the best results in those with a healthy BMI (Body Mass Index).

Liposuction is often mistaken as a procedure to help patients lose weight. However, it is used solely as a body contour procedure. This means that while it can remove small, stubborn pockets of fat, patients are advised to be close to their ideal weight before going under the knife.

Similarly, a tummy tuck procedure can also remove stubborn pockets of fat. However, the main reason patients are advised to be at a healthy weight is because it is such an extensive procedure. The recovery for a tummy tuck, unless you undergo the mini version, is quite lengthy. So, anything that reduces the risk of complications is highly recommended.

What health goals should you set yourself before surgery?

If you are planning on having cosmetic surgery later this year, there are some health goals you should work towards. These include:

  • Getting to a healthy weight
  • Quitting smoking
  • Cutting back on alcohol consumption
  • Getting any pre-existing conditions under control

The fitter and healthier you are, the less risky the surgery will be. You are also more likely to achieve your desired results.

If you aren’t sure what health goals you should be working towards, book a consultation with Mr Horlock. He will carry out an assessment and provide recommendations based upon the type of procedure you want to undergo.

Breast Reconstructive Surgery

A new study has found that the risk of ALCL (Anaplastic Large-Cell Lymphoma), after breast reconstruction surgery is low. The condition has become more prevalent in recent years, largely due to the rise in textured implants. For this reason, many cancer patients who want to undergo breast reconstruction surgery are understandably worried about the risks.

The results of the new research provide much needed reassurance. So, what exactly did it reveal?

Understanding the latest study

The latest study was carried out in Columbia, and its goal was to provide women with accurate information about the risks of ALCL. Researchers used a national cancer registry to assess data from 57,000 women who had undergone implant reconstruction after a mastectomy. Each of the women underwent a follow up around 7 years after the procedure, with approximately 16,000 women followed over a 10-year period.

The study did find that women who had breast reconstructive implants had a higher risk of ALCL than women in general, it was established to be very low. For every 1 million people who undergo the procedure, just 0.3 experience ALCL.

Out of the 57,000 women included in the study, just five of them developed ALCL. This provides reassurance that the procedure is safe for those undergoing breast reconstruction.

The benefits of fat graft breast reconstruction

The reason ALCL cases have risen in recent years is due to textured implants. Thankfully, surgeons have a myriad of options available to them that don’t come with the same level of risks.

One type of breast reconstruction that is renowned for its safety is the fat graft technique. This is a natural method that uses your own body fat to reconstruct the breast. Medically referred to as autologous fat transfer, the procedure takes fat from another area of the body such as the thighs or buttocks and implants it into the breast.

The main benefits of a fat graft breast reconstruction include:

  • Fewer risks and complications
  • Natural look and feel
  • Lower risk of ALCL

As you are using your body’s own fat, there is less chance it will reject the reconstruction. An implant is a foreign body that the body may choose to reject, leading to a range of complications. Another benefit is that a fat graft reconstruction looks and feels a lot more natural than implants.

Are there risks and complications of a fat graft breast reconstruction?

There are very few complications and risks associated with a fat graft breast reconstruction. There is a small risk of infection, cysts, and necrosis. Your surgeon will assess your risk factors, and explain more about the potential complications you might experience. However, most patients experience no negative side effects after undergoing the procedure.

Although ALCL can be a risk with textured implants, there are alternative procedures you can undergo to help reconstruct the breast. When performed correctly, a breast reconstruction surgery can help to improve quality of life, and give you back your confidence.

To find out more about fat grafting breast reconstruction, book a consultation with Mr Horlock. He will be able to answer any questions you may have, as well as help determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure.

Plastic Surgery Trends

Plastic surgery has never been more popular than it is today. Due to improvements in existing techniques, and innovative new procedures being constantly introduced, each year new trends emerge bigger than ever before.

So, as we enter a new year, what’s in store for plastic surgery in 2023? Here’s the top predictions for the top treatments expected to be carried out…

Breast augmentation

It is no surprise to see breast augmentation on the list. This popular procedure has remained one of the most performed plastic surgeries for decades and it shows no signs of slowing down. In 2022, the procedure overtook rhinoplasty as the cosmetic surgery of choice.

The techniques used to perform breast augmentation have improved drastically over the years. These days it provides patients with a more natural, fuller look.

Fillers set to be replaced by more permanent trends

Due to their fast results and minimally invasive technique, fillers became extremely popular in the past decade. However, while they can be highly effective, the results are only temporary. This year, patients are expected to move away from temporary treatments such as fillers, moving towards more permanent solutions instead.

These treatments have already started to decline in popularity. Instead, patients are choosing brow lifts, eyelid lifts, and facelifts for more dramatic results. Another reason fillers are falling out of favour is because they provide unnatural results. Facelifts and other surgical methods focus on providing a more natural look.

Liposuction

Liposuction is one of the most popular plastic surgeries performed worldwide. In 2023, clinics are expecting to receive more requests for this popular procedure, particularly from men.

The number of men choosing to undergo liposuction has risen dramatically in recent years. Improvements within the procedure have made it safer and less painful. There are also liposuction alternatives being used to help deliver the same results.

While it can help you to achieve a toned physique, liposuction is not a weight loss surgery. Instead, it aims to remove small pockets of fat that don’t shift with diet and exercise alone.

Labial reduction

The final trend for 2023 is predicted to be an increase in genital surgery. Labial reduction, or a Labiaplasty, that aims to change the size or shape of the labia, has become especially popular.

These are some of the main plastic surgery trends for 2023. Whichever procedure you are considering having done, it is crucial you choose a reliable and experienced surgeon. All cosmetic surgeries carry some level of risk, and you need to understand the dangers before going under the knife.

To learn more about any of these plastic surgery trends, book an appointment with Mr Nigel Horlock today. He will give you an idea of what to expect from both the procedure and the recovery process.

Have Plastic Surgery

These days, there is a cosmetic procedure to fix practically any aesthetic issue you may have. Patients no longer face the stigma that used to come from going under the knife, and improvements in the sector have led to more natural results. However, while it might be more popular than ever before, plastic surgery isn’t right for everyone.

Before booking your chosen procedure, you’ll need to check if you are an ideal candidate. While this will ultimately be determined on a case-by-case basis, there are some general reasons you shouldn’t have plastic surgery right now. Here’s some of those reasons to be aware of…

You currently have a health issue

If you currently have a health issue, you might not be a suitable candidate for plastic surgery. All patients should be generally fit and healthy before they go under the knife, otherwise it could lead to complications.

If you have a history of pulmonary or cardiac disease, a family history of anaesthetic complications, or an untreated blood disorder, you will need to talk to your surgeon about the possible risks.

Unrealistic expectations

Plastic surgery can significantly change a person’s appearance. However, there are some things it cannot do.

Having realistic expectations is crucial before you undergo any cosmetic procedure. It is unlikely to transform you into an entirely different person, so trying to look like a certain celebrity for example, might be an unrealistic goal.

Surgeons today focus on producing more natural results. The goal isn’t to make you perfect, it’s to fix issues that you currently have.

You are getting the surgery for somebody else

Plastic surgery is a big deal, especially if you are undergoing a major procedure such as rhinoplasty or breast augmentation. If you are going to go under the knife, it should only be for yourself, not somebody else.

For example, you should never undergo plastic surgery due to pressure from a partner or loved one. It should always be something you have wanted to have done for a while, and not something spontaneous that you might live to regret.

You don’t have support around you

When you have cosmetic surgery, it can take a lot out of your body. Depending upon the procedure, you may need to rest up for a few weeks and limit your daily activities. Without any support around you from friends or family, the recovery period will be tough.

You may need assistance changing bandages or carrying out daily activities. There is also a chance you will be in pain and need help with tasks such as showering. Having adequate support around you while you are recovering is essential and should be part of your post-operative plan.

If you are trying to decide whether plastic surgery is right for you, book a consultation with Mr Nigel Horlock. He will discuss your concerns and help you get a good understanding of what to expect from the procedure you are interested in.

achieved with rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty is a popular procedure that aims to help address aesthetic and structural issues with the nose. Commonly referred to as a nose job, the procedure can help to transform a patient’s life, giving them back their self-confidence. However, before you consider going under the knife, it’s worth noting that Rhinoplasty does have its limitations.

Here, we look at what can and can’t be achieved with rhinoplasty to help you decide if it is the right option for you.

What can by achieved with rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty can help to fix a wide range of nasal issues. This includes:

  • Straightening a crooked nose
  • Fixing the angle of the nose
  • Smoothing out bumps and dips on the bridge of the nose

The surgeon will be able to reposition the septum or nasal bones to help even out a crooked nose. The angle can also be altered in various ways, and nasal bumps can be trimmed down to reveal a smoother appearance.

There is no denying rhinoplasty can completely change your appearance. So, what are its limitations?

What can’t rhinoplasty do?

A rhinoplasty procedure cannot change the basic structure of the nose. So, don’t expect to be able to change your nose to look like somebody else’s. You may be able to achieve a similar look to what you are hoping for, but you can’t morph yourself into your favourite celebrity for example.

A nose job also won’t address any cosmetic issues such as redness and spots. It focuses on the contours of the nose, not the skin.

These are some of the main limitations of the procedure. It is also important to note that there is a risk you might not like the results. While it is rare, some patients do request a revision surgery as they aren’t happy with how their new nose looks.

The importance of choosing an experienced surgeon

While rhinoplasty is one of the most common cosmetic procedures, it is a complex, major surgery. This means it should always be carried out by a fully trained and certified surgeon.

The results you experience will largely be down to how experienced the surgeon is. It can be tempting to choose the cheapest option, but unfortunately this often tends to result in poor results.

Many patients have also had to undergo an additional procedure to fix the damage caused by inexperienced surgeons. Revision nose jobs are much more complex than initial rhinoplasty.

If you want to give yourself the best chance of experiencing your desired results, it is important to choose your surgeon carefully.

Having realistic expectations of what rhinoplasty can and can’t achieve is essential before you consider undergoing the procedure. To get a better idea of what to expect, book a consultation with Mr Nigel Horlock today.

liposuction

A new report has revealed that liposuction was the most popular cosmetic procedure carried out after the Covid-19 pandemic. First introduced in 1974, the surgery has come a long way in terms of technique and results.

Here, we look at why liposuction is still so popular, decades after its introduction.

Why did the pandemic cause a rise in liposuction procedures?

The Inaugural ASPS Insights and Trends Report revealed a dramatic surge in cosmetic procedures since the start of the pandemic. Liposuction topped the list, alongside tummy tucks and breast augmentation.

Demand for liposuction is still showing no signs of slowing down. One reason thought to be behind the surge in liposuction procedures is that patients spent more time at home. Businesses were locked down, leading to a rise in remote working. With fewer people to see, and more time being spent at home, patients could heal and recover from their surgery in private.

Many people also put weight on during the pandemic. While liposuction isn’t a weight loss procedure, it can help to produce a more toned appearance. Great for tackling small pockets of fat, it can be used to contour and refine the body.

A rise in video calls also contributed to the increase. As it can be used to target small areas, many patients found it an ideal way to eliminate their double chin. When you are on a video call, attention is automatically drawn to the face as the rest of the body is typically hidden.

These are just some of the reasons liposuction cases rose during the pandemic. Even now, as life begins to return to normal, it shows no signs of slowing down in popularity. Many people are still continuing to work from home, giving them more time to undergo the procedures they want.

A popular add-on treatment

Another reason liposuction cases have doubled is the fact that it makes an excellent add-on treatment. That is, it can be carried out alongside other procedures to maximise their results.

Liposuction is often performed alongside tummy tucks, breast reductions, and facial procedures. It is designed to remove small areas of fat, whereas procedures such as a tummy tuck remove excess skin and tissue. If you were to remove skin and tissue without removing excess fat, you wouldn’t get the best results.

What can I expect when I undergo liposuction?

Undergoing liposuction is a lot different today than it used to be. Advancements in the procedure have made it safer, more precise, and less painful. You will experience some pain and discomfort, though this should ease within a week. It takes around six weeks to recover and for any bruising and swelling to fade.

To find out if liposuction is right for you, book a consultation with Mr Nigel Horlock today.

Safer facelifts

The BAAPS has demanded that legislation be changed to protect the public from non-GMC registered practitioners. Referring to them as ‘Cosmetic Cowboys’, the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons has now launched a petition to make surgery safer for patients.

A current lack in legislation means that there are no restrictions on who can and cannot perform cosmetic surgery. This means that beauticians and untrained surgeons can carry out various procedures in the UK, putting patients at risk.

Here, we look at why the BAAPS is demanding a change and how it would lead to safer popular procedures such as facelifts.

Why is the BAAPS demanding change?

The reason the BAAPS is demanding a change in the law is due to a worrying increase in botched procedures. A staggering 80% of members have seen a rise in the number of patients requesting revision surgery. There has also been a 44% increase in the number of botched procedures performed abroad.

Talking about current legislation, president elect of the BAAPS, Marc Pacifico, states:

“Currently, there is more legislation to protect your dog while having surgery, than to protect a patient undergoing a cosmetic operation. Legislation that will clarify the distinction between providers to safeguard the public from serious complications at the hands of untrained and unregulated practitioners, is long overdue.”

Many patients are unaware of the risks of going under the knife or having treatments such as facial fillers. When a beautician offers treatments such as Botox and fillers, it’s easy to assume they are fully qualified and experienced. Unfortunately, this is often not the case.

What are the risks involved?

All cosmetic procedures carry some level of risk. Thankfully, this is often mitigated by the skill and experience of the surgeon. Choosing a practitioner who isn’t qualified however, significantly increases the risks involved, with some complications proving potentially deadly.

Just some of the risks you are exposed to when you choose an unlicensed surgeon include:

  • Permanent disfigurement
  • Infection
  • Unsatisfactory results
  • Additional surgery
  • Life-threatening complications

The risks of going under the knife with an inexperienced surgeon are extensive and potentially life threatening. For this reason, you should always choose a GMC registered surgeon to carry out the procedure.

The benefits of choosing a GMC registered surgeon

You’ll receive a triple whammy of benefits when you choose a GMC registered surgeon. These include:

1) You’ll have reassurance that the surgeon is qualified, skilled, and trusted within the industry.

2) The surgeon will have adequate medical insurance that isn’t available to non-GMC surgeons.

3) Registered GMC surgeons work within premises equipped to perform procedures, as well as deal with any potential complications that arise.

Safety should be a key priority when you are looking to undergo any cosmetic procedure. Mr Nigel Horlock is proud to be a renowned GMC registered surgeon. Whether you are thinking of going under the knife, or you need a revision surgery, book a consultation now.