The Rise of the Tummy Tuck for Excess Skin Removal

The Rise of the Tummy Tuck for Excess Skin Removal

In recent years, tummy tuck surgery has seen a steady increase in enquiries, as patients seek a long term solution for excess skin removal around the abdomen. Abdominoplasty is a broad term including a variety of body rejuvenation surgery procedures designed to improve the appearance of the mid section.

Why is the tummy tuck so popular?

Thanks to advances in the techniques used and the rise of social acceptance of cosmetic surgery procedures, men and women are now choosing tummy tuck surgery over non-surgical methods. This is helped in part by the realisation that many non-surgical fat removal and skin tightening procedures often have limited results.

Non invasive options such as energy assisted skin tightening and fat reduction may seem like a less costly way to fix loose skin but on the whole these treatments prove to offer very little in the long term and require multiple visits to a cosmetic clinic to maintain the results. Also, in the majority of cases, they can also only help patients with limited skin laxity and cannot replicate what tummy tuck surgery can offer.

For those reasons – not to mention the effect celebrities revealing they have sought abdominoplasty and surgery for excess skin removal can have – tummy tuck surgery in the UK has seen a rise in patients once again.

What do the experts say about excess skin removal?

Mr Gary Ross, a plastic surgeon in Manchester specialising in body rejuvenation surgery, has spoken out in the media previously about the long term benefits of choosing surgery to improve the abdomen, and offers a variety of tummy tuck procedures options to both male and female patients.

He says: “Abdominoplasty remains the most effective way to help patients with excess skin and fat, offering results that non surgical treatments such as skin tightening simply cannot match. Whilst they may be suitable for patients with very minor skin laxity, those left with folds of skin after extreme weight loss, or ‘mummy tummy’ after pregnancy will not find long term results unless they choose an abdominoplasty.

There are several different techniques to remove excess skin depending on the patient’s concerns and a full consultation is necessary in order to ascertain whether any will help. During a consultation we can decide with method is most suitable and discuss the pros, cons and risks of the tummy tuck surgery.

Realistic expectation should be a priority, and patient’s must be aware they will be left with a substantial scar; although most see this as a fair trade to be without unwanted loose skin,” he concludes.

What are the main times of abdominoplasty?

Three of the most popular approaches of this form of body rejuvenation surgery at Mr Ross’s clinic include fleur de lis abdominoplasty, mini tummy tuck, and full tummy tuck. Whilst the mini and full abdominoplasty procedures remove excess skin and fat from a horizontal incision that can usually be neatly hidden in the underwear line, the fleur de lis approach will leave a vertical scar. This form of surgery for excess skin removal, recently becoming a media headline thanks to the great results actress Lisa Riley has showcased, is usually reserved for those with a lot of skin to remove.

As well as removing skin during this type of body rejuvenation surgery, the abdominal wall muscles can be tightened and hernias removed if this is also a concern. Abdominoplasty procedures can therefore have a life changing effect on patients, with many returning post operatively to express their happiness at being given a new lease of life.

For more information about body rejuvenation surgery for excess skin removal and abdominoplasty procedures, please contact the clinic to book a consultation.

 

The fat transfer procedure revolutionising the cosmetic industry

The fat transfer procedure with body-jet replaces out dated liposuction

With traditional liposuction treatments being used less thanks to more effective and safer alternatives, it’s no surprise there has been a rise in patients seeking a fat transfer procedure that offers maximum results with minimal downtime, compared to traditional fat removal surgery.

Mr Gary Ross is leading the way for patients seeking cosmetic procedures, such as mummy makeovers, by offering an alternative procedure that’s both safer and more efficient. Not only that, the harvested fat can be transferred to another part of the body to improve volume or body contours.

Mr Ross noticed the trend shifting from fat removal surgery to fat transfer in the latter part of 2017, and believes 2018 will also be the year we see patients swap silicone implants for volumising areas, such as the breasts or buttocks, with fat instead.

Specialising in body rejuvenation surgery and mummy makeover procedures, the Manchester plastic surgeon uses the body-jet device to take fat from one area of a patient’s body and reintroduce it to another part of the body or face that requires volume.

Unlike traditional forms of fat removal surgery that are often unreliable and painful, the body-jet technology uses the gentle power of water to contour the body during the fat transfer procedure. Fat can be removed in a more gentle way, allowing for a less invasive and safer autologous fat transfer treatment for both men and women.

For those seeking breast enhancement, body-jet can provide a natural boost to volume, in some cases eliminating the need for silicone implants. A fat transfer procedure that’s leading the way in the UK, this is a remarkable step forward for the industry, and one that’s likely to be big news during the next 12 months.

A BAAPS and BAPRAS member, Mr Ross was one of the first medical professionals in England to offer the water-assisted fat transfer procedure, and believes scores of patients will start seeking more natural ways to enhance their bodies.

“Last year we saw a larger focus on the approach that less is more with regards to body contouring and enhancement. There’s no doubt in my mind this will also be a focus during 2018 and beyond. Patient safety is, rightly, the main priority now for most plastic surgeons, and this along with quicker healing times ensures procedures like fat transfer will be popular in many cosmetic clinics,” Mr. Ross says.

Mr Ross believes this shift in demand may be down to the change in celebrity culture, with less women seeking Kardashian proportions in favour of a more natural appearance. The fake look is most definitely on the decline, Mr Ross points out.

body-jet fat transfer is making waves because the treatment is versatile and the results are impressive. One of the benefits of offering body-jet is how much can actually be done without implants in terms of volume improvement. Silicone implants have their place, and fat transfer isn’t suitable for everyone, but this is modern way to boost volume to an area without place foreign objects into the body, which can of course cause some patients complications.

Undergoing body-jet fat transfer is less invasive than traditional lipo techniques, leading to speedier recovery times and patient satisfaction. Using the body-jet, liposuction and/or fat transfer can be performed in a safe, effective and easy way, that causes much less trauma to the area being treated.

“We are doing remarkable things with body-jet and I know 2018 is going to be the year patients embrace this safer cosmetic procedure to regain or boost volume,” Mr. Ross concludes.

Why cosmetic surgery should never be given as a prize

Trivialising cosmetic surgery only leads to issues later on

It’s been reported recently that an organisation in America chose to give away cosmetic surgery procedures as prizes during an event. This is troubling on both an ethical level as well as a safety level, with little by way of patient care seemingly being considered.

As part of the prize, the winner would be entitled to a procedure of their choice providing it was up to a certain amount. The man who claimed one prize later ‘gifted it’ to his wife, who will be the one to undergo plastic surgery. This is not recommended nor is it something we would recommend.

Don’t trivialise cosmetic surgery procedures

There are multiple issues with this. Most notably it trivialises cosmetic surgery on a large scale. The decision to undergo procedures should not made lightly; it most certainly shouldn’t be made simply because it’s effectively free.

In the same way voucher sites such as Groupon and the like encourage and lure patients into undergoing (often unnecessary or sparsely considered) treatments giving cosmetic treatments or procedures away as a reward or a prize is simply dangerous.

Consider what would happen if the patient underwent a procedure they didn’t need or even really want. Even worse, imagine the uproar and upset for the patient and family if the procedure didn’t have the desired outcome?

We’ve seen these kinds of headlines time and time again, but still they pop up from time to time; granted more likely in the US than UK. From a plastic surgeon’s perspective it’s most definitely unethical, but it also trivialises the whole idea of plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures.

To clarify, a patient should only ever undergo cosmetic surgery if:

  • It’s their choice: what are the motivations for surgery?
  • They are doing it for themselves; you should never have surgery of this kind for another person, or to impress anyone
  • They are suitable for the procedure; if you don’t need a rhinoplasty a reputable plastic surgeon will not give you one
  • They understand the risks as well as the rewards of their chosen procedure
  • They understand they may not like the results; expectation must be managed
  • They understand the recovery process involved in the specific procedure or treatment they’re considering

If you would like more information about any cosmetic procedure the best starting point is to book a consultation. Do your research and pick a reliable and regulated plastic surgeon who will only offer you surgery if you need it and when you are ready.

Make an informed decision

Call or email the clinic if you wish to discuss any treatment in more detail. You can also you the treatment pages and testimonials on the site to help your research.

How Long Does It Take To Recover From A Tummy Tuck Procedure?

How Long Does It Take To Recover From A Tummy Tuck Procedure?

When it comes to how long it takes to recover from a tummy tuck, every patient will be different. There are many factors to consider before choosing to have body contouring surgery, one of which is the recovery process. Patients will often ask how long it takes to recover from a tummy tuck, and with good reason.

A quick search online will reveal that the first stage of recovery will take around 2 weeks and normal activity can resume after 2 months. However, it’s important to remember that tummy tuck recovery time will be determined by a number of factors. These include the type of surgery, your overall health before the surgery and how well you follow the post-operative advice. Before you can decide if abdominoplasty surgery is right for you, it’s important to find the right surgeon.

It All Starts With a Consultation

All patients will have a consultation before undergoing any kind of abdominoplasty surgery. This informal meeting allows patients to meet their surgeon and ask questions about their procedure.

The question of how long it takes to recover from tummy tuck surgery is one that is likely to crop up. It’s important for the patient to have a thorough understanding of what is involved both before and after surgery. This will allow them to make an informed decision about what type of surgery is best for them.

Types of Abdominoplasty

There are many factors that need to be taken into account before abdominoplasty surgery can take place. Every patient is different, so recovery times will vary. Mini tummy tucks designed to only remove small amounts of skin are less invasive than full abdominoplasty techniques. This can result in a shorter tummy tuck recovery time.

How long it takes to recover from a tummy tuck depends on which body contouring surgery a patient requires. If fat transfer or liposuction is also required, this will also alter the recovery time.

As well as the difference in techniques, health factors must be considered. Patients in good health often heal faster and have fewer complications. It’s advised patients eat well in the lead-up to and after tummy tuck procedures.

Smoking can also be a major factor in tummy tuck surgery recovery time as it can impact the wound healing process. You’ll be advised to quit smoking before any cosmetic surgery procedures regardless.

Take your Surgeon’s Advice

Post-operatively you can improve how long it takes to recover from your tummy tuck by following your surgeons advice and attending your follow up appointments. The follow-up appointments will give you a chance to ask questions about the wound healing process and ensure your surgeon is satisfied with the outcome.

If you’re told to rest and avoid exercise or strenuous activity, take heed and relax. You will heal from surgery much faster and reduce the likelihood of complications such as burst stitches.
Remember, Everyone is Different

While there are certain steps you can take that will help you to recover from tummy tuck surgery faster, it’s important to remember that everyone is different. Every case is unique, and your recovery will depend on multiple factors. The best pre-operative advice is to do your research, follow the advice given to you by your plastic surgeon, and take the time to consider your options.

Book Your Tummy Tuck Consultation

Mr Gary Ross is a plastic surgeon in Manchester who specialises in body contouring procedures such as abdominoplasty. Patients looking to book a tummy tuck consultation should email the clinic to arrange an appointment.

Expert claims THIS is the secret behind new body

Expert claims THIS is the secret behind new body

Mr Gary Ross, a plastic surgeon from Manchester, suggests Kim’s new proportions could be the result of a lesser know cosmetic procedure called fat transfer.“Fat transfer procedures such as body-jet remove fat from one area and replace it in another to contour specific areas of the body.

In Kim’s case she could have has fat extracted from her waist and replaced in her hips. This could certainly give her the shape we see here, and does not require implants.”

Body-jet fat transfer is water assisted fat harvesting, helping gently move fat from one area to another, see a full explanation here.

UK Plastic Surgeon reveals top cosmetic surgery trends

UK Plastic Surgeon reveals top cosmetic surgery trends

Mummy makeovers, breast and body rejuvenation surgery led the way in 2017 according to plastic surgeon Mr Gary Ross.

Providing a yearly review, he also noted that non-surgical anti ageing treatments had also seen a surge on popularity.

Global cosmetic surgery industry is booming

Global cosmetic surgery industry is booming

Across the world the cosmetic surgery industry is gaining in popularity

According to a new report by IMCAS last week, $10.7 billion was spent last year on materials used in cosmetic procedures worldwide.

The IMCAS World Congress, held in Paris on February 1st 2018, revealed that business is well and truly booming for the aesthetic sector, with an overall increase of 8 per cent in the cosmetic devices and products being purchased by medical professionals.

According to experts, the market is predicted reach $11.6 billion during 2018, and is set to more than double from 2014 to 2021. This will no doubt be welcome news to industry professionals worldwide.

The report tracked sales of cosmetic equipment such as body contouring lasers, devices for hair removal, pharmaceutical compounds and active cosmetics, fat transfer and removal devices, muscle-relaxing toxins such as Botox, dermal fillers, and breast implants.

Industry experts have credited the boom to a healthier global economy, technological innovations, and “a desire on the part of baby boomers to remain competitive in a youth-centric workforce.”

Surgical procedures to remove and transfer fat from areas such as the buttocks or abdomen to improve volume in the breasts or plump up cheeks were amongst the most popular, the data showed.

This is in keeping with an ISAPS report from 2016/17, where it was reported 23.6 million face or body-boosting procedures were performed globally.

This was up 9 per cent compared to 2015, and 10.4 million of these patients specifically chose surgery rather than non invasive treatments.

How is the industry evolving in the UK?

Here in Manchester, Plastic Surgeon Mr. Gary Ross has seen a rise in patients seeking fat transfer procedures, as well as mummy makeovers that combine multiple procedures. These can include a tummy tuck combined with breast uplift and fat transfer.

“Combination treatments to contour the body have been on the rise for sometime now, with patients seeking more impressive results with less down time,” says Mr. Ross.

“We can perform multi-procedure surgery now, meaning patients are in recovery for less time. The mummy makeover is a prime example of this; we perform body contouring surgery with breast rejuvenation surgery in order to reduce the downtime.”

Water-assisted fat transfer treatments such as body-jet are becoming more and more popular as patients seek fat reduction or transfer without the lengthily downtime associated with procedures like liposuction.

Get more information and book a consultation

For more information about cosmetic surgery procedures including fat transfer or mummy makeovers, or if you wish to find out more about the combination of non-surgical with surgical procedures, please contact the team who will be delighted to help you book a consultation. Every patient is different and we believe in offering bespoke treatment plan to each and every person we agree to help.

Essential Advice for When To Get A Tummy Tuck

When Is The Best Time to Get a Tummy Tuck? 

Follow these steps if you want to know when to get a tummy tuck

A common question plastic surgeons are asked is when to get a tummy tuck. Whilst there is no one size fits all answer to this question, because every body and patient is different, there are certain guidelines which make abdominoplasty more likely.

How to know when to get a tummy tuck

There are numerous reasons a patient may consider body rejuvenation surgery, such as abdominioplasty procedures. Most patients start their journey after becoming unhappy with the aesthetic appearance of their mid section.

This can include the upper, lower or full abdomen, and is often a result of weight loss or pregnancy causing sagging skin or skin laxity. Deciding when to get a tummy tuck is down to multiple considerations, including emotional and physical well-being, cost, and recovery time.

Body rejuvenation surgery procedures such as abdominoplasty require considerations other than just the aesthetic result. Can you afford the tummy tuck surgery? Do you have time available to recover from the procedure?

Essentially, when to undergo a tummy tuck is down to a patient’s individual circumstances, and a consultation is advised in order to ascertain whether this type of cosmetic surgery is suitable.

Who is suitable for this kind of body rejuvenation surgery?

Both men and women may be suitable for tummy tuck procedures, although they tend to be more sought after by women due to the effects of pregnancy.

Generally, if you are unhappy with the way your abdomen looks because of loose and sagging skin, but you’re in good overall health and at a healthy weight, you could be a candidate for tummy tuck surgery.

Are there reasons not to undergo abdominoplasty?

If you are considering having more children it may be advised to hold off on surgery, as the skin will likely stretch again. The same would be said for breast uplift and breast augmentation procedures.

Similarly, if you’ve lost weight but are not at your goal weight yet, it may be wise to wait in order to get the best results. Body contouring procedures like this are not a weight loss tool but can provide aesthetic improvements once your journey is complete.

Advice about when to get a tummy tuck

If you are considering body contouring procedures but need advice on when to undergo a tummy tuck consider booking a consultation with a plastic surgeon. This provides an excellent opportunity to discuss your needs and goals with an expert.

Mr Ross specialises in in abdominoplasty procedures including the mini tummy tuck, traditional tummy tuck, fleur de lis procedures, and even fat transfer combined with surgery. A tailored approach is the key to exceptional body rejuvenation surgery results.

When to get a tummy tuck will always be down to the individual, but seeking the advice and skills of a specialist in these procedures will always be the best starting point. Contact the team if you’d like to discuss your needs or book a consultation.

Motivations for undergoing cosmetic surgery

What are your motivations for undergoing cosmetic surgery?

 Many patients book a consultation sure that they know which cosmetic procedure/s they want, as well as what they want to achieve.

One of the most important parts of a patient’s journey is meeting with a plastic surgeon and discussing the procedure they are considering.

At this meeting, one of the surgeon’s priorities will be to make sure the patient not only understand what the cosmetic procedure entails, but also why the patient wants to undergo it.

A patient’s motivations for choosing cosmetic surgery should be clear, and they should always be to enhance their self-esteem.

Are you choosing cosmetic surgery for the right reasons?

It might seem like a quick fix to some, but cosmetic surgery is a serious decision that should only be made for the individual. It is the responsibility of the plastic surgeon to turn down any patient he/she believes may be seeking aesthetic enhancement to please someone else or imitate someone, such as a celebrity.

It is not recommended that any man or woman undergoes cosmetic procedures for the benefit of any other person, and a plastic surgeon will likely refuse surgery if he/she believes the potential patient does not have the best motivations.

How realistic are your motivations for undergoing cosmetic surgery?

We often see patients that are seeking cosmetic procedures to ‘look like’ a celebrity; this is unrealistic and unlikely to yield the results they want. For example, Kate Middleton’s nose work for her facial dimensions but that doesn’t mean it will work on yours.

Be realistic about what you are hoping to achieve, and be prepared to potentially be told it’s not attainable or unrealistic.

When is the right time for aesthetic procedures to change the way you look?

This is entirely subjective and depends on a patient’s specific goals and circumstances. Most patients seek the advice of a plastic surgeon if they feel that cosmetic procedures could enhance their self-esteem and overall happiness.

If you’re seeking mummy makeover procedures – such as breast uplift, tummy tuck, or fat transfer – you may find the advice will be to wait until you’ve finished having children.

For others, the decision to undergo surgical procedures to change certain areas of the body or face may be down to age or weight loss. The key is to seek the advice of a plastic surgeon that respects your individual needs and understands your motivations for undergoing anti ageing or body rejuvenation procedures.

Ask yourself these five questions

  1. Why do I want to undergo this procedure?
  2. What do I think I will gain from undergoing this procedure?
  3. Who am I doing this for?
  4. Do I understand the limitations as well as the rewards of cosmetic surgery?
  5. Will I be able to cope if the results are not as I’d hoped?

Getting more information

If you are interested in learning more about a specific cosmetic surgery procedure, such as breast enlargement, tummy tuck surgery, or fat transfer, please contact the team who will be able to provide you with more information.

A consultation is the only way to determine whether or not a specific type of treatment is suitable for you – book one here.

 

Surgery Aftercare: How to Massage Scar Tissue After Surgery

One of the most commonly asked questions regarding healing after a procedure is “how do I massage scar tissue after surgery?” During your pre-op consultation Mr Gary Ross will discuss the healing process with you, and one of the aspects is scar management.

 

Why Do We Get Scars?

Everyone wants to heal quickly with as little scarring as possible, but this is usually inevitable. Scars are marks left on the skin where a wound has healed leaving behind fibrous tissue. Most scars fade in time but never fully disappear.

All plastic surgery comes with risk of scarring and this is detailed in your consultations before undergoing surgical procedures. You can, however, take some steps to improve the way a scar heals and changes over time. One of these is to effectively massage scar tissue after your surgery.

What Is a Scar Tissue Massage?

Simply put, it’s a holistic method of improving the way a scar heals. It can be done at home, rather than in a hospital or clinic, and is relatively straightforward. Your plastic surgeon can demonstrate some specific movements that may aid your understanding.

It’s often suggested after body contouring procedures including tummy tuck surgery, brachioplasty and thigh lifts, and in some cases facelifts.

 

Why Is It Important To Massage Scar Tissue After Surgery?  

Massaging scar tissue after surgery can help to increase blood circulation which in turn can help speed up recovery time. Experts believe this also keeps the tissue pliable, which in turn prevents the scar from reopening or becoming ‘tight’.

The Best Method For Massaging Scar Tissue After Surgery

When and how to massage scar tissue after surgery is something your plastic surgeon will discuss with you before and after your procedure, based on your chosen treatment plan. Below are three basic massage techniques that should be followed:

Use a circular motion

Rubbing the scar in a circular motion helps to promote fluid drainage. This is known as the lymph drainage technique and it helps to reduce any swelling on or around the scar tissue. It helps to drain excess fluid away from the area, which is a common reason for swelling post operation.

Rub the scar

Applying gentle pressure to the scar with your finger, you then rub in one direction in a smoothing action. For bigger scars you could use the palm of your hand to cover a greater area and save time. The purpose of this move is to break up excess collagen and fibrous tissue that may have formed. 

Stretch the skin

Stretching the skin may sound painful, but with gentle outward movements using your thumbs and circular motion this can keep your scar flexible. This is more effective if the scar is located on a joint.

Follow The Advice of Your Plastic Surgeon

While these tips can help to speed up healing time, it’s important to follow your practitioner’s advice for massage scar tissue after surgery. Do not massage deep scars, for example after the Mummy Makeover surgery, until the wounds have completely healed.

Be safe: you may risk reopening the wounds if you attempt to massage scar tissue after surgery too soon, so seek advice from your trusted plastic surgeon before attempting scar tissue massage. Contact Gary Ross and his team for more information on the healing process of your desired procedure.