Rhinoplasty, commonly known as a nose job, is a surgical procedure that can improve the appearance and function of the nose. Whether you’re considering rhinoplasty for cosmetic reasons or to correct breathing issues, it’s natural to have questions.

Here, we’ll address some of the most common questions about rhinoplasty to help you understand what to expect and whether it’s right for you.

What is rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that reshapes or repairs the nose. It can be performed for aesthetic reasons, functional reasons, or both.

Aesthetic rhinoplasty focuses on improving the appearance of the nose, such as altering its size, shape, or proportions, to better complement your facial features.

Functional rhinoplasty on the other hand, aims to correct structural issues that affect breathing, like a deviated septum or nasal valve collapse.

Am I a good candidate for rhinoplasty?

Ideal candidates for rhinoplasty are those who:

• Are in good general health
• Have a fully developed nose
• Have realistic expectations
• Are non-smokers

Rhinoplasty is typically performed after the nose has stopped growing. You should be physically healthy without any conditions that could impact healing.

It’s important to have realistic expectations going into the surgery. A consultation with your surgeon can help give you an idea of what to expect and whether a rhinoplasty will deliver the results you want.

If you’re a smoker, it’s also advisable to quit prior to the surgery. Smoking can affect blood flow and delay the healing process, as well as lead to complications.

What does the rhinoplasty procedure involve?

Rhinoplasty is typically performed under general anaesthetic and can take between one to three hours, depending on the complexity of the surgery.

There are two main techniques used, including open and closed methods. With open rhinoplasty, an incision is made across the columella (the narrow strip of tissue that separates the nostrils).

This gives the surgeon easier access to the nasal structures.

In a closed rhinoplasty procedure, all incisions are made within the nostrils, resulting in no visible external scars.

The surgical approach used will be tailored to your specific needs and desired outcome.

What is recovery like after rhinoplasty?

Immediately after the surgery, you may experience swelling, bruising around the eyes, and nasal congestion. Splints or dressings may be applied to support the nose as it heals.

In the first week, most patients can return to light activities and may have splints or stitches removed. Any swelling and bruising should gradually fade over a period of a few weeks.

It’s important to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and situations that could pose a risk of injury to the nose.

While significant improvements are noticeable within weeks, subtle changes can continue for up to a year as the nose refines to its final shape.

Your surgeon will provide detailed post-operative care instructions to promote healing and minimise discomfort.

Are there risks associated with rhinoplasty?

As with any surgery, rhinoplasty carries potential risks and complications; for example, infection, bleeding and unsatisfactory results that do not align with expectations, although they are relatively rare when performed by an experienced surgeon.

Choosing a qualified and experienced cosmetic surgeon like Mr Nigel Horlock can significantly reduce these risks.

To learn more about rhinoplasty and whether it could be right for you, schedule an appointment with Mr Horlock today.

 

Pregnancy is a beautiful and transformative experience, but it can also bring significant changes to your body. After giving birth, many women find that their bodies don’t quite bounce back to the way they were before pregnancy.

For some, diet and exercise alone aren’t enough to address these changes, which is why post-pregnancy cosmetic procedures have become increasingly popular.

These procedures can help restore your pre-pregnancy body and boost your confidence.

Here, we’ll explore some of the most common post-pregnancy cosmetic procedures.

Tummy tuck

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to flatten and firm the abdomen. Pregnancy can stretch the abdominal muscles and skin, leading to a belly that may still appear round or saggy, even after you’ve lost the baby weight.

A tummy tuck addresses these issues by removing excess skin and fat while tightening the underlying muscles.

The procedure involves making an incision along the lower abdomen, through which the surgeon can access and repair the abdominal muscles. The skin is then pulled tight, and any excess is removed, resulting in a smoother, flatter midsection.

The benefits of a tummy tuck go beyond aesthetics. For many women, it can also help alleviate back pain and improve posture by restoring core strength. It can also correct issues like diastasis recti, a condition where the abdominal muscles have separated, which is common after pregnancy.

Breast augmentation

Breast augmentation is another popular post-pregnancy cosmetic procedure. Pregnancy and breastfeeding can lead to significant changes in breast size and shape, often leaving breasts looking deflated or uneven. Breast augmentation involves inserting implants to increase the size and shape of the breasts, helping to restore their pre-pregnancy appearance.

The procedure is highly customisable, allowing you to choose the size, shape, and type of implant that best suits your body and aesthetic goals. Whether you want to regain fullness, correct asymmetry, or simply enhance your curves, breast augmentation can help you achieve a more youthful and balanced look.

Beyond the physical changes, breast augmentation can also have a positive impact on your self-esteem. Many women feel more confident and comfortable in their bodies after the procedure.

Targeting multiple areas post-pregnancy

For a comprehensive approach to post-pregnancy body restoration, you could combine several cosmetic procedures into one surgical session. The most common post-pregnancy procedures include a tummy tuck, breast augmentation or lift, and liposuction, though the specific procedures can be tailored to your unique needs.

By combining procedures, you can achieve more dramatic results with a single recovery period, making it a convenient option for busy mums.

Choosing to undergo a post-pregnancy cosmetic procedure is a personal decision, and it’s important to consult with a qualified cosmetic surgeon like Mr Nigel Horlock, to discuss your goals and expectations. He can help you determine which procedures are right for you.

In the end, the goal of any post-pregnancy cosmetic procedure is to help you feel confident and comfortable in your body. Whether you opt for a tummy tuck, breast augmentation, or a combination of procedures, with the right approach and guidance, you can achieve the look you desire and enjoy the results for years to come.

Breast implants carried out today typically last a long time, but they won’t necessarily last a lifetime. This means at some point you may need to have them replaced. There are also other reasons you may want to replace your implants.

Here we’ll reveal some common reasons to replace breast implants and why fat grafting may be an ideal replacement.

Reasons for replacing your implants

Whether you are unhappy with the initial results or you’re experiencing pain and discomfort, here’s some of the common reasons you may want to replace your breast implants:

Lifespan

While modern breast implants are designed to be durable, they are not meant to last forever. Most implants have a lifespan of about 10 to 20 years. Over time, the implant shell can weaken, increasing the risk of rupture or other complications.

Regular check-ups with your cosmetic surgeon can help monitor the condition of your implants and determine when it might be time for an implant replacement.

You are unhappy with the results

Personal preferences and aesthetic goals can change over time. You may find that you are no longer satisfied with the size, shape, or overall appearance of your implants. Advances in implant technology and surgical techniques can offer better options that more closely fit your current preferences.

You may also be unhappy with how the original procedure turned out. If you are unhappy with your results for whatever reason, a revision surgery can help to rectify the problem.

The implants are causing pain or discomfort

Breast implants shouldn’t cause ongoing pain or discomfort. If you experience persistent pain, tightness, or other symptoms, it could be a sign of complications such as capsular contracture, where the scar tissue around the implant tightens.

Replacing the implants and addressing any underlying issues can alleviate discomfort and improve your quality of life.

The implant has ruptured

Although rare, implant rupture is a serious problem that requires immediate treatment. A rupture can occur due to ageing implants, trauma, or other factors.

Saline implant ruptures are usually noticeable quickly as the implant deflates, whereas silicone implant ruptures may be less obvious without an MRI or ultrasound. In either case, replacing the ruptured implant is essential to maintain the desired appearance and prevent potential complications.

Can I choose fat grafting instead?

If you do have your implants removed, fat grafting may be an ideal alternative to having new implants inserted. Also known as autologous fat transfer, it involves taking fat from another part of your body (such as the abdomen, thighs, or flanks) and injecting it into your breasts.

Fat grafting provides a more natural look and feel compared to implants. Since the procedure uses your own body fat, there is no risk of an allergic reaction or implant-related complications. It can also improve the texture and quality of the skin over the breasts and can be adjusted more easily over time to maintain the desired results.

If you are considering having your breast implants replaced, schedule an appointment with Mr Nigel Horlock. He will explain the options available, including the possibility of fat grafting, to achieve the look and comfort you desire.

It’s more common than you might think for women to have uneven breasts. One study found that out of 117 patients, a striking 81.7% had significant differences between their right and left breasts.

While it is completely normal, it can understandably lead to feelings of embarrassment and affect self-esteem. However, the good news is there are procedures available to help correct the issue and help you regain your confidence.

Here, we’ll reveal the top cosmetic procedures to help you correct uneven breasts.

Breast implants

One of the most popular procedures to address uneven breasts is breast implants. This surgery can effectively balance the size and shape of both breasts, providing a more symmetrical appearance.

During the procedure, implants are inserted to enhance the volume and contour of the smaller breast, or both breasts can be augmented to achieve the desired size and symmetry.

Breast implants come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, allowing for a highly customised approach. The surgeon will make a small incision, typically under the breast, around the nipple, or in the armpit, to insert the implant.

Recovery time varies, but most patients can return to their daily activities within a few weeks. The results are usually long-lasting, giving you the confidence boost that comes with a more balanced and harmonious look.

Breast reduction

For women whose unevenness is due to one breast being significantly larger than the other, breast reduction surgery might be the best option. This procedure involves removing excess breast tissue, fat, and skin from the larger breast to achieve a more proportional size. By reducing the size of the larger breast, the surgeon can create a more symmetrical appearance, alleviating discomfort and improving aesthetic balance.

The surgery typically involves making an incision around the areola and down to the breast crease, allowing the surgeon to remove the necessary tissue.

Recovery time for breast reduction surgery is usually about two to three weeks, with most patients returning to normal activities shortly after. The results can dramatically improve your overall appearance and comfort, providing a significant boost to self-confidence.

Breast lift

A breast lift, or mastopexy, is another effective procedure for addressing uneven breasts, especially when sagging or drooping is a concern. This surgery involves lifting and reshaping the breast tissue to create a firmer, more youthful appearance. It’s particularly beneficial for women who have experienced changes due to pregnancy, weight fluctuations, or ageing.

During a breast lift, the surgeon makes incisions to remove excess skin and reposition the breast tissue and nipple. The goal is to lift the breasts to a higher, more even position on the chest.
Recovery from a breast lift typically takes about one to two weeks, and the results can be both aesthetically pleasing and long-lasting. This procedure not only improves symmetry, but also improves the overall contour and firmness of the breasts.

Whether you choose breast implants, breast reduction, or a breast lift, these surgeries can provide significant improvements in symmetry and boost your confidence.

If you are considering undergoing any of the procedures above, schedule an appointment with Mr Nigel Horlock. He can provide a comprehensive evaluation and personalised recommendations to help you achieve your aesthetic goals.

Breast implants have come a long way over the past decade thanks to advancements in surgical techniques and materials. Today, they are generally safer and more reliable than ever before. However, like any surgical procedure, there is still a risk of complications.

If you’re considering getting implants, it’s essential to understand the potential risks involved. Here, we’ll explore some of the complications to be aware of when deciding if breast augmentation is right for you.

Infections

One of the primary concerns with any surgery is the risk of infection, and breast implants are no exception. Infections can occur around the implant site, typically within a few weeks after the surgery. Symptoms of an infection may include redness, swelling, pain, and fever.

While rare, if an infection does occur, it can usually be treated with antibiotics. In severe cases, the implant may need to be temporarily removed to allow the infection to clear up before a new implant is placed.

Following your surgeon’s aftercare instructions can significantly reduce the risk.

Sensitivity

Changes in breast sensitivity are another potential complication. Some women may experience increased sensitivity, while others might notice a decrease. This can affect the nipples or the skin of the breast, and is usually temporary, though it can sometimes be permanent.

These sensitivity changes are often due to nerve damage that can occur during the surgery. The good news is that, for most women, normal sensation returns within a few months as the nerves heal.

Discussing your concerns and expectations with your surgeon before the procedure can help manage any potential sensitivity issues.

Bleeding

Bleeding is another possible complication that can occur during or after breast implant surgery. Postoperative bleeding, or hematoma, happens when blood pools around the implant. This can cause swelling, bruising, and pain, and may require additional surgery to drain the excess blood and stop the bleeding.

To minimise the risk of bleeding, your surgeon will likely advise you to avoid certain medications, such as aspirin and other blood thinners, before and after your surgery. Following these guidelines and maintaining open communication with your surgical team can help reduce the likelihood of this complication.

Asymmetry

While breast implants are designed to enhance and balance your breast size and shape, asymmetry can still occur. This means that one breast may heal differently than the other, leading to uneven results. Asymmetry can be due to a variety of factors, including differences in healing, implant positioning, or pre-existing anatomical differences.

In many cases, minor asymmetry can be corrected with additional surgery. However, it’s important to have realistic expectations and understand that perfect symmetry is not always achievable.

When it comes to minimising the risk of complications with breast implants, choosing a skilled and experienced surgeon is crucial. Mr Nigel Horlock is a member of the British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS), which speaks to his expertise and commitment to maintaining the highest standards in surgical care.

Mr Horlock uses implants by Johnson & Johnson and Allergan, both of which are renowned for their superior quality and safety. Book a consultation today to learn more and explore the options that best suit your needs and goals.