The Harley Street Journal

Bi-monthly newspaper for the cosmetic and plastic surgery sector

plastic surgery

How to Recognize and Prevent Common Breast Implant Complications

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Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries in the world. However, like any surgical procedure, it comes with risks and potential complications. If you are considering getting breast implants or already have them, it is important to be aware of the most common complications and how to recognize and prevent them. In this blog post, we will discuss breast implant illness, capsular contracture, implant malposition, BIA-ALCL, breast seroma, and breast implant rupture, and how to deal with them.

Breast Implant Illness: Breast implant illness (BII) is a term used to describe a broad range of symptoms that some women with breast implants experience, such as fatigue, joint and muscle pain, headaches, and brain fog. The exact cause of BII is still unknown, but it may be related to an immune system response to the implants. If you develop any symptoms after getting breast implants, it is important to talk to your doctor and consider removing them.

Capsular Contracture: Capsular contracture is a complication that occurs when the tissue capsule around the implant becomes thick and tight, causing the breast to harden, deform, and sometimes hurt. Capsular contracture can be caused by infection, trauma, or an immune system reaction. To prevent capsular contracture, it is important to follow your surgeon’s postoperative instructions, avoid smoking, and choose high-quality implants.

Implant Malposition: Implant malposition refers to the displacement or misalignment of the implant in the breast pocket, which can cause asymmetry, pain, and distortion of the breast shape. Implant malposition can be caused by poor surgical technique, implant size, or abnormal healing. To avoid implant malposition, it is important to choose a skilled and experienced surgeon and discuss the options and risks of implant placement with them.

BIA-ALCL: Breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) is a rare type of cancer that can develop in the scar tissue around textured breast implants. BIA-ALCL typically presents as swelling, fluid accumulation, or pain in the breast. The risk of developing BIA-ALCL is very low, but it is important to be aware of the symptoms and to seek medical attention if you notice any changes in your breast. To reduce the risk of BIA-ALCL, many surgeons now recommend using smooth-surface implants instead of textured ones.

Breast Seroma and Breast Implant Rupture: Breast seroma is a condition where fluid accumulates around the implant, causing swelling, discomfort, and a change in breast size or shape. Seromas can be caused by infection, trauma, or natural fluid buildup. In some cases, a breast seroma can indicate a breast implant rupture, which occurs when the implant shell tears or leaks. To treat a breast seroma or implant rupture, your doctor may recommend draining the fluid or surgery to remove and replace the implant.

Breast implant complications can be frightening and uncomfortable, but they can also be prevented and treated with proper care and attention. If you are considering getting breast implants, it is important to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon who can guide you through the options and risks of the surgery. If you already have breast implants and are experiencing any symptoms or changes in your breast, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice. By staying informed and proactive, you can enjoy the benefits of breast augmentation without worrying about complications.

What Makes a Good Plastic Surgeon?

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In the world of modern medicine, the role of a plastic surgeon is as much an art as it is a science. Patients seeking aesthetic enhancements rely on these skilled practitioners to sculpt and rejuvenate, making it essential to understand what makes a good plastic surgeon. The convergence of technical expertise, empathy, and a commitment to patient satisfaction defines the essence of an exceptional plastic surgeon.

Education and Training

At the core of every successful plastic surgeon’s journey lies a robust foundation of education and training. Prospective surgeons embark on a lengthy path that involves medical school, followed by specialized residency training in plastic surgery. Board certification, which serves as a rigorous indicator of competence, demonstrates that a surgeon has met the highest standards in the field.

Experience and Expertise

Experience is the crucible in which knowledge and skill are honed. A good plastic surgeon accumulates a wealth of experience through years of practice, mastering a wide range of surgical and non-surgical procedures. Whether it’s facial rejuvenation, breast augmentation, or body contouring, a surgeon’s expertise is paramount to delivering exceptional results.

Patient-Centered Approach

Empathy is the linchpin of a patient-centered approach. An outstanding plastic surgeon understands that each patient is unique, with individual needs, concerns, and aspirations. They take the time to listen to their patients, establish trust, and collaborate to develop personalized treatment plans that align with the patient’s goals while ensuring realistic expectations.

Artistic Sensibility

The artistry of plastic surgery cannot be overstated. A skilled surgeon combines their medical knowledge with an artistic sensibility to create results that are not only technically sound but also visually pleasing. This requires an eye for balance, proportion, and aesthetics, enabling the surgeon to enhance a patient’s appearance while preserving their natural beauty.

Attention to Detail

Precision and attention to detail are hallmarks of a good plastic surgeon. Every surgical procedure demands meticulous planning, execution, and follow-up care. It is the surgeon’s responsibility to ensure that the results align with the patient’s goals while minimizing scarring and recovery time.

Ethical Conduct and Safety

Ethical conduct and patient safety are non-negotiable elements of plastic surgery. A good plastic surgeon adheres to a strict code of ethics, prioritizing the well-being of their patients above all else. They operate in accredited facilities, follow safety protocols, and maintain transparency in the informed consent process.

Continual Learning

The field of plastic surgery is constantly evolving, with new techniques and technologies emerging. A good plastic surgeon remains committed to lifelong learning, regularly attending conferences, workshops, and staying up-to-date with the latest advancements to ensure the best possible care for their patients.

In conclusion, what makes a good plastic surgeon is a combination of medical expertise, a commitment to patient-centered care, artistic sensibility, attention to detail, and unwavering ethical conduct. It is a balance of art and science that transforms the lives of patients, leaving them with enhanced self-confidence and a sense of self-renewal. Ultimately, it is these qualities that set exceptional plastic surgeons apart, forging a path to aesthetic excellence in the realm of cosmetic and reconstructive surgery.

The Best Plastic Surgeons in London

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Are you planning to undergo plastic surgery for a better appearance? Choosing the right plastic surgeon is one of the most crucial decisions that you must make. London is home to some of the world’s top-class plastic surgeons who specialize in providing an extensive range of cosmetic procedures that are right for you. In this blog post, we’ll showcase three of the best plastic surgeons in London to help you transform your look with confidence.

Dr. Amir Sadri:

Dr. Amir Sadri is a highly experienced facial plastic and cosmetic surgeon based in London. He specializes in providing a comprehensive range of cosmetic procedures, including facelifts, rhinoplasty, otoplasty and more. Dr. Sadri is heavily accredited in his field and has been featured in many publications worldwide, including The Daily Mail and The Times. With his compassionate, honest, and patient approach, Dr. Sadri is ensuring that all his patients are fully satisfied with their results.

Dr. Aadil Khan:

Dr. Aadil Khan is one of the best body plastic surgeons in London, having many years of experience in the industry. He specializes in providing an extensive range of cosmetic procedures, including breast augmentation, liposuction, and tummy tucks. Dr. Khan is renowned for his expertise in reconstructive surgery, providing a personalized surgical approach to every patient. He provides a relaxed and reassuring environment throughout the entire process, providing a high level of patient care.

Dr. Paul Harris:

Dr. Paul Harris is a reputable and experienced plastic surgeon based in London. He has many years of experience and specializes in breast surgery mainly and providing a range of cosmetic procedures, including breast augmentation, breast reduction, and breast implant removal and more. Dr. Harris prides himself on considering every aspect of a patient’s wellbeing before providing expert advice on the best cosmetic procedure for them. With his patient-centered approach, Dr. Harris ensures all his patients feel comfortable throughout the entire process.

Choosing the right plastic surgeon can be a daunting task. However, finding the right plastic surgeon can provide the confidence you need to feel comfortable and happy in your skin. We hope that our blog post has provided you with an insight into a few of London’s best plastic surgeons. Each of the aforementioned plastic surgeons comes with their unique set of skills and experience, providing you with the assurance that you’ll be in the best possible hands. It is essential to conduct thorough research when selecting a plastic surgeon, but we are confident that any of the three surgeon’s above will provide you with satisfactory results. Book your consultation today to discuss the options that suit you best.

Trending: Buccal Fat Removal

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Buccal Fat Removal 

In recent years, buccal fat removal surgery has become one of the most sought-after cosmetic surgery trends in Hollywood, but what exactly is it?

Buccal fat removal is a cosmetic surgical procedure that involves the removal of buccal fat pads from the cheeks to create a slimmer, more contoured facial appearance. 

What is Buccal Fat?

Before looking at how buccal fat removal works, it helps to first understand what buccal fat is. Buccal fat is a type of fat located in the lower part of the cheeks, between the facial muscles, and just beneath the skin. 

Also known as the buccal fat pad, it is made up of specialised fat cells that are different from other types of fat in the body and helps to give the face a rounded, plump, appearance. 

Whilst buccal fat can contribute to a youthful and rounded appearance of the face, it can also make the cheeks appear too full or chubby in some people. For those seeking a more sculpted facial appearance, buccal fat removal surgery can be an option to selectively remove some of the fat in this area. 

How is Buccal Fat Removal Performed?

The procedure is typically performed under local anaesthesia and involves making small incisions inside the mouth to access the buccal fat pads. 

Your surgeon will then carefully remove a portion of the fat pads before closing the incisions with sutures. The entire procedure usually takes around 30 to 45 minutes and can be done on an outpatient basis.

Recovery time is typically minimal, with patients being able to resume normal activities within a few days. However, swelling and bruising can last for up to two weeks, and patients are advised to avoid hard or chewy foods and to rinse their mouth with a special mouthwash for a few days after the surgery to aid in healing.

Is Buccal Fat Removal Safe?

Buccal fat removal is generally considered a safe procedure when performed by a qualified and experienced surgeon. 

Like any surgery, it does carry some risks, including bleeding, infection, nerve damage, scarring, asymmetry, and unsatisfactory results. However, serious complications are rare, and most patients experience a smooth recovery with few side effects.

It’s important to carefully consider the potential risks and benefits of the procedure, discuss any concerns with a qualified surgeon, and follow all pre-and post-operative instructions to minimize the risk of complications.

It’s also important to note that buccal fat removal is a cosmetic procedure and is not recommended for everyone. It’s best suited for patients who have excess buccal fat that is contributing to a “chubby” or “round” appearance of the cheeks and who have realistic expectations for the outcome of the procedure. 

A thorough consultation with a qualified surgeon is necessary to determine if buccal fat removal is a good option for you.

For more information on buccal fat removal, or to book a consultation, contact Specialists in Plastic Surgery.

Researchers explore potential use of Google Glass in plastic surgery

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By Rosie Wilson

According to a recent research article, the use of Google Glass in plastic surgery has a number of potential benefits, including the possibility to enhance surgical training, medical documentation and even patient safety.

The article, entitled ‘Looking at Plastic Surgery through Google Glass’ has been composed by Christopher R. Davis, MD, and ASPS Member Surgeon Lorne K. Rosenfield MD of Stanford University. It has been published as a special paper in the March 2015 issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, the official medical journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).

The Google Glass was introduced on a limited basis in 2013, and is a hands-free, computerised eyewear system that presents information to the wearer, as well as enabling the recording and sharing of video. Although the system is not yet available to the public, the technology is being developed over several sectors to test its benefits to industry – including healthcare.

The demonstration of surgical procedures – either live or pre-recorded – would have a huge impact on surgical training, as well as the potential for ‘remote consultations’ and even ‘virtual assistance.’ The researchers also noted that Google Glass may be helpful in providing access to medical documentation such as medical history or studies – and may even reduce the risk of patient infection by negating the need for pens and paper or computers.

The article focuses on previous reports on medical and surgical use of Google Glass, before discussing further potential benefits of the integration of the technology into modern cosmetic practice. It also presents Dr. Rosenfield’s experience in performing the first procedure with Google Glass – a combined facelift and blepharoplasty procedure.

The researchers concede that the use of Google Glass for plastic surgery requires refinement – they noted that the video camera performed with limited resolution (which may hinder the training aspect of their findings), that there were some technical difficulties in streaming the footage, and that the surgeon had to keep his head in a fixed position in order for optimum streaming. In the procedures that followed, Dr. Rosenfield fashioned a head-mounted LED light to improve clarity for video viewers.

The researchers concede that there is much work to be done on the development of Google Glass and its place in the surgical field – but remain confident about its potential benefits to the industry. They also note that ‘logistical, ethical and hospital legislative issues’ will need to be addressed before Google Glass can be integrated into a working medical or surgical environment.

“The future of Glass in surgery is very promising and has the potential to make an empowering impact upon the contemporary plastic surgeon not only as a teaching tool for the observer, but for the surgeons themselves,” they concluded.

 

Mirror Mirror On The Wall, Should I Be Having Surgery At All?

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12503410_xxlIn the last issue of THSJ, we revealed statistics showing most women have their first cosmetic procedure by 21 years of age. With cases of BDD on the rise, Marie Shoulder from Bevan Brittan explains why it’s important to ensure that patients have realistic expectations on the outcome of their cosmetic surgery.

Around 2% of the population suffer from Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD). The disorder can range in severity but it is generally characterised by the sufferer being overly obsessive about their appearance, and in particular one aspect of their appearance which to others may seem trivial or non-existent.

A recent study by the Institute of Education at the University of London commissioned by the Department of Health revealed that those who have underlying psychological issues such as depression and BDD are more likely to have cosmetic surgery. The caution lies however in the fact that a psychological condition can actually worsen rather than improve following cosmetic surgery. In a case with a patient who has BDD for example they can undergo several cosmetic surgery procedures whilst becoming increasingly unhappy with their appearance, which can often result in depression, agoraphobia and social isolation.

This impact could add thousands to the potential value of any damages claim, certainly if a loss of earnings claim were to be advanced along with a claim for treatment such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. The current JC Guidelines value general damages for psychiatric and psychological damage up to £82,750 at the top end of the bracket where the impact of the disorder can affect the injured person’s ability to cope with life and work and on the injured person’s relationships with family, friends and those with whom he or she comes into contact and the prospects for recovery are poor.

So, how well do practitioners know their patients? In most cases, patients undergoing cosmetic surgery do so without referral from their GP. It is therefore extremely important that a thorough discussion takes place to identify the reasons why a patient is seeking to undergo surgery. If there is any suspicion that a practitioner is dealing with an at-risk patient, they must question whether the treatment is appropriate at all. A patient with BDD is unlikely to accept they have a mental disorder at all because to them their cosmetic flaws are very real so obtaining informed consent is fraught with difficulty.

The IHAS “Good Medical Practice in Cosmetic Surgery” Guidelines state that the patient must be asked to give consent to inform their GP of any planned surgery. A GP may be able to provide important information about the patient and so if the patient refuses to give consent to contact their GP this should instantly raise suspicion. So, if a practitioner decides to proceed, the patient must be made aware of the implications of not informing his/her GP and should be asked to sign a disclaimer to that effect.

It is an unnecessary risk to provide invasive cosmetic surgery without information about the patient’s medical history and every effort should be made to obtain confirmation from their GP that there is no known medical reason not to operate.

Although not mandatory, there are psychological screening processes available which are designed to provide a more thorough investigation into the patients reasoning for wanting cosmetic surgery. These screening processes can offer a strong indication of whether or not surgery is the appropriate choice for a patient before they go ahead.

The consultation that a patient has with his/her surgeon is a very important part of the cosmetic surgery process and should never be underestimated. Body Dysmorphic Disorder is a significant mental disorder which causes great distress to sufferers.

However, it also creates particular problems for cosmetic surgery practitioners with a higher risk of claims and potentially large awards of damages if an existing condition is exacerbated by the very surgery that was undertaken to make the patient feel better about themselves.

Knowing Cause of Hyperpigmentation Is Essential to Treatment, Say Plastic Surgeons

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11948059_xxlAccording to a plastic surgery group, correcting hyperpigmentation is often a complex process, and it should always begin with an in-depth consultation to understand the cause before treatment.

Surgeons and skin care professionals at LIPSG treat a variety of patient concerns, but among the more difficult to address is hyperpigmentation.

To get the most out of skin pigmentation treatment, the LIPSG doctors say patients must first undergo a comprehensive skin evaluation. By doing so, skin care professionals can assess potential causes of the dark skin discoloration and whether it was influenced by genetics, medical history, or other lifestyle factors. The LIPSG team notes that each of these can play a role in skin cell function, and by relating hyperpigmentation to a specific cause, the most effective method of treatment can often be identified.

Most treatment options for the skin condition utilise heat, light, chemicals, or lasers, and the LIPSG doctors emphasise the need for a thorough skin analysis to determine if the patient’s condition is treatable.

Common procedures performed for these patients include chemical peels, IPL therapy, microdermabrasion, and laser skin resurfacing. In addition, the aesthetic professionals at the Aesthetic Center can also recommend camouflage makeup for the temporary concealment of dark spots.

Overall, the surgeons and aestheticians at LIPSG believe successful treatment of hyperpigmentation relies on a thorough skin analysis. For patients who wish to address their uneven skin tone, they recommend seeking a qualified professional who understands how various factors affects skin and how potential treatment methods will affect the condition.

Top surgeon opens High tech clinic in Cheltenham

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15941575_xxlA new clinic has opened in Cheltenham, offering surgical and non-surgical procedures, carried out by top consultant Robert Warr.

Look Amazing was launched nine months ago, bringing specialist skin and laser treatment to Cheltenham. The clinic boasts the latest technology to deal with lines, wrinkles, unwanted hair and other skin issues.

Although he covers all cosmetic surgery, he specialises in breast reconstruction and skin cancers, including reconstructive surgery following operations.

“I also do a lot of non-surgical treatments such as Botox, lasers and fillers, which are incredibly popular these days,” said Robert, 47.

“Following the review regulations are being tightened up for non-surgical procedures, which is good for us as our unique selling point is that people will be having treatments performed by a consultant plastic surgeon,” he concluded.

International Symposium of Facial Plastic Surgery in New York

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7961111_xxlThe American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) will celebrate its 50th anniversary at the 11th International Symposium of Facial Plastic Surgery- and surgeons from all over the UK will be there representing the industry.
Every four years, the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS) and the International Federation of Facial Plastic Surgery Societies (IFFPSS) host an international symposium that brings together facial plastic surgeons from all over the world and in the specialties of facial plastic surgery, oculoplastic surgery, dermatologic surgery, plastic and cosmetic surgery.

The New York gathering features the latest trends and technologies in facial plastic and cosmetic surgery. It’s a mixture of lectures, panels, workshops and instruction courses led by leaders in the field followed by an exhibition of hundreds of companies showcasing and introducing their latest products and services.

Mr Aftab Ahmed, an ENT Surgeon based in Doncaster, said attending the event will be an insightful and important date for his busy diary.

“I am thrilled to be representing the UK at this unique conference,” he said.

“It’s important that we carry on learning and understanding the latest techniques and treatments on offer in order to offer patients the best procedures and the finest results,” he concluded.

The conference will take place May 27th-31st at the New York Marriott Marquis.

Latin Americans Top For Plastic Surgery

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11955234_xxlAccording to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), there were 14.6 million cosmetic plastic surgery procedures performed in the U.S. alone in 2012, up 5% from the previous year.

Additionally, 5.6 million reconstructive plastic surgery procedures were performed last year, up 1 percent. While plastic surgeries have seen an increase, the procedures tend to be focused in certain countries.

According to the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS), Italy, Greece, and South Korea had the most aesthetic/cosmetic procedures per 1,000 people.

Latin Americans who have the highest percentage of procedures per 1,000 people were Colombia, Brazil, and Venezuela.

The top cosmetic minimally-invasive procedure was Botulinum toxin type A, with 6.1 million procedures, and the top cosmetic surgical procedure breast augmentation, with 286,000 procedures.