DO REAL MEN HAVE PLASTIC SURGERY?

Blog by Plastic Surgeon Mr Andrew Ive's

ONCE UPON A TIME, THE ANSWER TO THAT QUESTION WOULD HAVE BEEN A RESOUNDING, "NO!"

A couple of decades ago, plastic surgery was considered a woman's domain. Sure, it was okay if you had to have it done for reconstructive purposes, preferably from some kind of manly activity like being bottom of the heap in a rugby scrum, but just to improve the way you looked? That was clearly the act of an effeminate or gay man.

Thankfully, attitudes have changed. We've all heard the term 'metrosexual', coined in 1994 by journalist Mark Simpson to describe the growing tribe of men—of all sexual persuasions—who were confident that good grooming and masculinity could happily coexist. Male personal care was thrust into the spotlight and hair styling, moisturising, waxing and manicures went mainstream. It was only a matter of time before plastic surgery followed suit.

The stigma surrounding male plastic surgery continues to fade for a number of reasons:

Celebrity influence

Although the jury is often out on who has and who hasn't undergone the knife, with male celebrities like David Beckham and Brad Pitt happy to discuss grooming tactics, men are becoming more confident that a little self-care is not a one-way pass to Emasculation Town.

Professional success

Many men are beginning to feel that a youthful appearance is important to achieving professional success. Women know only too well the usually unspoken expectations of looking young, attractive and well groomed at work. But as retirement ages increase, men are also starting to feel that an image of youth and vitality is necessary for professional advancement.

Normalisation

With an arsenal of male-specific grooming products, salons and services now available, men are receiving a clear signal that taking care of oneself and wanting to look good is widely acceptable.

Procedures for men

So what types of plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures are men most likely to have? Well, many of the same ones that women have, actually. Popular procedures for men include nose jobs (rhinoplasty), facelifts, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) and liposculpture. Less invasive procedures such as dermal fillers and anti wrinkle injections are also popular to help enhance and maintain a youthful appearance.

But it isn't just for facial freshen ups. Men who suffer from gynaecomastia ('man boobs') can find relief with breast reduction surgery designed specifically for males. Men may also choose pectoral, calf or buttock implants to enhance their physique.

Whether it's correcting a long-standing aesthetic concern, recapturing a youthful appearance or simply enhancing their existing physique, real men know that taking care of their looks doesn't endanger their masculinity. And yes, real men do have plastic surgery.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ANTI-AGEING INJECTABLES & DERMAL FILLER?

When considering Cosmetic Injectables, the difference between anti-ageing injectables & dermal filler can sometimes be a little confusing.  Here, we have briefly explained the difference between these 2 products, how they work, what they are made of and more.

ANTI-AGEING INJECTABLES 

current most popular forms are Botox and Dysport

HOW DOES IT WORK?  Anti-ageing injectables works by relaxing wrinkle-causing-muscles, creating a smooth, rejuvenated and more youthful appearance.

WHAT IS IT MADE OF? This is a natural, highly purified and sterile protein that is extracted from bacteria, in a similar way that penicillin comes from a mould. 

WHAT IS IT USED FOR?  The most common uses are the treatment of frown lines, wrinkles around the eyes, worry lines on forehead, Hyperhydrosis, (excessive sweating of the hands, feet & underarms) and as a migraine treatment.  Other uses include the treatment of a gummy smile, to lift a droopy nose, treatment of bunny lines, to relax chin muscle and to lift eyebrows.  Also can be used as a corrector.

HOW LONG DOES IT LAST?  Average 4 months - depending on amount of product used.  Underarms can last from 8 to 12 months

DERMAL FILLER

current most popular forms are Restylane & Juvederm

HOW DOES IT WORK?  Deposited beneath the skin - this product enables you to replace your diminished volume.  Your facial appearance is immediately refreshed and restored.

WHAT IS IT MADE OF? Firstly - Hyaluronic acid is a substance we all have in our skin naturally.  Hyaluronic acid has many functions in the body, and one function it to keep the skin hydrated.  Hyaluronic acid depletes as we age.  Dermal filler is based on hyaluronic acid.  It is derived from a non-animal source.  This substance has a very smooth formulation. 

WHAT IS IT USED FOR?  Commonly - The treatment of lines around the mouth, forehead & nose.  It is also used to enhance lips.  Some forms of dermal filler are used for the volumising of nose, cheeks, chin and other parts of the face.  Also can be used a a corrector.

HOW LONG DOES IT LAST? Between 6 and 18 months.

The best place to start is booking a free consultation with your cosmetic Nurse.  He/she will answer all your questions, determine if your are suitable for cosmetic injectables and develop a plan for you to get the results you are seeking.

Enjoy refreshed, youthful looking skin!

Paula :)

THE SUBTLE SIDE OF PLASTIC SURGERY

By Plastic Surgeon Andrew Ives

 

 

Plastic surgery has undergone an extreme makeover in its own right. Years ago people wanted to turn back the clock twenty years. Unfortunately the results were far from acceptable. An old saying is true for cosmetic surgery… “Too much of a good thing is bad for you”. We’ve all seen the pictures in magazines, on the telly, and the internet of celebrities and socialites who have ‘overdosed’ on plastic surgery, thinking to ourselves “my god what were they thinking” and even “my god what was their surgeon thinking, or even drinking’ before they started work on them. Well, it may come as some comfort to know that plastic surgeons also look at these same pictures and think these same thoughts. Today plastic surgery and cosmetic treatments are considered to produce a refreshed look, rather than a wind tunnel appearance.

Fortunately in Australia we are blessed with a sense of style and good taste, and this is reflected in the surgical appearance of postoperative patients. Patients want friends and work colleagues to say they look refreshed and enquire if they’ve been away, as they look healthy and vibrant. They don’t want people to know they’ve had surgery whereas in the United States the opposite is true, where having had surgery is seen as a status symbol.

Botox is used to reduce wrinkles and fine lines: to freshen the face and not freeze it. Dermal fillers, both permanent and temporary, can be used effectively to enhance lips both their outline and body without the need to make them look like the rubber lips of a Mike Jagger cartoon, or a couple of marauding hot dog sausages. Most women requesting breast augmentation surgery want a more natural look, rather than a couple of breasts that walk in the room five minutes before they do. Liposuction is now called liposculpture for a reason. It’s more about fine-tuning the body’s shape rather than a procedure to suck enough blubber out of you to make you the equivalent of ninety nine percent fat free.

So in Australia, you can trust that when you walk out of a plastic surgeons office, you will look like you have returned from an island holiday as opposed to having just walked out of the Freak Factory.

DERMAL FILLER QUESTIONS ANSWERED!

2 OF THE MOST COMMON QUESTIONS I AM ASKED REGARDING DERMAL FILLER ARE:

1. If I have one treatment, will I then need to keep having treatments for the rest of my life?

2. What will I look like if I decide against further treatment?  Will I be more wrinkled or saggy?

Most dermal filler including Restylane are based on hyaluronic acid.  Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in the body and has many functions, one of which is giving the skin hydration. Restylane is a safe product that is well accepted by the body.

1. Patients are more than welcome to just have a single treatment.  They may have a special occasion coming up, or just feel like a spur of the moment freshen up, and that is completely fine!

2. If you have don't have further treatments, the skin will return to its natural pre-treatment state.  Restylane, however, has been clinically proven to stimulate new collagen growth which may aid in improving the quality and texture of the skin.  So using a dermal filler has great long term benefits on the skin, even after discontinuing treatment. You are always going to be better off with having even just one treatment.

Some other questions asked are:

How long does Restylane last?
Restylane lasts 4 - 12 months, depending on the area treated, the depth of the lines, the condition of the skin and the lifestyle of the individual treated.

Does the treatment hurt?
A Restylane treatment involves injections into the skin, therefore, you may experience some discomfort, however local anaesthetic and topical creams can be used to minimise any pain.

Will people know I have has a Restylane treatment?
It is common for people not to notice the exact change, rather they recognise a subtle difference which may be expressed as 'looking well' or 'refreshed'.
It is however very important to find the right Cosmetic Nurse - who has achieving a 'natural look' as their top priority.  At Fletcher Brown Skin Clinic, this is extremely important to both our Cosmetic Nurses Donna and James.  Both owners - myself and Kate have have brilliant treatments at Fletcher Brown with cosmetic injectables and love our natural looks. Just ask us about it.

You will need to allow 45 minutes for your initial consultation with your nurse.  There is no charge for this consultation.  During this visit your nurse will determine if you are a suitable candidate for the treatment.  Your nurse will also advise you on the best course of action to get the results you are looking for.  If you have a specific budget - please let your nurse know so that an appropriate program can be written for your requirements.

If you would like to book your consultation, please call Fletcher Brown on 97496261.  We have a nurse consulting from Fletcher Brown every week - so we are sure to find a time to suit you :)

Paula :)



DRY "WINTER LIPS"? TRY THESE 3 TIPS!

Dry "winter-lips"? TRY THESE 3 TIPS, and you should be smooth and hydrated in no time!

 

1. Does your caffeine intake seems to go up in winter and water intake goes down? If so try to reduce your coffees to one or two and increase your water intake by adding in herbal teas.

2. If your skin is generally on the dry side, start taking omega 3. You will only see a result if taking the MAXIMUM does of Ethical Nutrients fish oil or flaxseed oil - so please follow the label. You should notice a difference approx one month. FYI krill oil won't help with dry skin.

3. If you are using professional or certified organic skin care, carry any hydrating serums, moisturisers & SPFs onto your lips too. They need nourishment, hydration and protection just as much -if not more - than the rest of your face. Note: Do not carry retinol/detoxing/exfoliating products onto your lips - this will cause a drying effect. If your lip stick/gloss is synthetic - this can also be very drying. You might want to change over to the very hydrating Inika Certified Organic lip sticks and lip glosses.

If your skin is generally feeling dull & dry, it might also be worth booking in for a follow up consultation with your skin specialist at Fletcher Brown.... you just might need a slight adjustment in your skin care routine.

Now pucker up!!!

 

Paula :)

JAMES BARRETT RN MEDICAL AESTHETIC NURSE JOINS OUR TEAM!

Exciting News! The much loved James Barrett RN Medical Aesthetic Nurse is going to be offering Cosmetic Injectables from Fletcher Brown Skin Clinic! James is from the highly reputable Endless Solutions Cosmetic Surgery and Aesthetic Medicine practice.

James will be regularly offering treatments on the weeks our wonderful Cosmetic Injectables Nurse Donna Phillips is interstate. Injectables at Fletcher Brown are very popular, so we have felt the push to offer more days to our loyal clients. But don't worry, Donna is not going anywhere! Donna will still be offering treatments, as always every 2nd week

Donna has a close working relationship with Endless Solutions, and recommended that this would be the place to find another exceptional second nurse.

Since then I have spoken to a number of people in the field who tell me that James is brilliant. Patients absolutely love him and he gets fantastic natural looking results. He is warm, friendly and cares about his patients.

James completed A Bachelor of Nursing and Bachelor of Health Science in 2002 majoring in Health Education & Health Promotions. In 2003 he commenced work at the Alfred Hospital Emergency & Trauma Centre and in 2007 James achieved a ‘Nurse Clinician’ position with the Mobile Assessment Treatment Service (MATS) performing medical assessments and treating clients in the community for Alfred Health. James has over ten years experience providing professional Nursing services over Melbourne as well as internationally, both in public and private sectors. With a passion and talent for injecting and a drive to helping people achieve natural looking and excellent results, he looks forward to meeting and consulting with you.

James conducts a thorough 45 minute consultation before beginning any treatment - to ensure you are receiving the best treatment for your needs.

James' first day treating at Fletcher Brown will be Tuesday 23rd of July.

Just call 97496261 if this time suits you!

Paula :)

GOING NATURAL: THE CHANGING FACE OF BREAST ENLARGEMENT

By Plastic Surgeon Mr Andrew Ives

Breast enlargement. Of all plastic surgery procedures, it seems to be the most often discussed—who has had it, who wants it, who doesn't, and why.

For years, breast enlargement has suffered from the Jordan effect: the perception that breast implant surgery results in disproportionately large, strangely-shaped breasts that appear patently false. But the results of breast enlargement can be noticeable without being obvious. Increasingly, patients are looking for breasts that appear natural and complement their overall appearance, rather than breasts that become a focal point.

Of course, there are still women who desire a very obvious change but in recent years, I have noticed more and more women seeking a natural looking result. One of the fastest growing categories of breast enlargement patients I see is made up of women seeking to restore their breasts after having children. Suffering a loss of volume following pregnancy and breastfeeding, these women have become dissatisfied with the size and appearance of their breasts. They aren't necessarily looking for large breasts; they simply want to go back to what they once had. Anecdotally, I have heard that this type of breast enlargement has become a hot topic during school drop-off and pick-up, with the procedure becoming more acceptable and no longer solely the domain of celebrities and the housewives of Beverly Hills.

But how can you ensure that your breast enlargement surgery will give you a natural looking result? Well, like any plastic surgery, there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to breast enlargement. Achieving a natural look depends on a combination of factors:

• Body shape – Obtaining natural looking results depends first and foremost on assessing the patient's body. A good surgeon will take into account a patient's breast and body shape when considering implant sizes. Some patients may like the results they see on a friend and request the same sized implants, hoping for a similar look. But if that friend has a very different body shape, the same sized implants can look unnatural and may even cause complications.
• Shape – In my opinion, teardrop shaped implants more closely mimic the natural shape of a woman's breast, creating a gentle slope from the upper chest and becoming fuller in the lower part of the breast. Round implants create a fuller appearance overall, with an emphasis on the upper breast, which may be more appropriate for some patients.
• Composition – Implants composed of silicone gel feel and look more natural than implants composed of saline, which are firmer to the touch and can produce visible rippling beneath the skin.
• Profile – This refers to the way the breasts project from the body. Some types of implants offer a lower profile while others have more projection. The type that will give you the most natural appearance depends on the volume of breast tissue that you have to start with.
• Placement – Implants can be placed on top of or behind the pectoralis major muscle, the main muscle on the front of your chest. Placing the implant behind the muscle can help to create a smoother appearance but may not be suitable in every situation.
• Incision – Incisions are typically made in one of three different places: armpit, areola or under the breast. The incision location can impact how well the implant is placed as well as scar visibility and must be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Most importantly, it is vital to be open to discussion with your surgeon about different options for achieving your desired results: it could be the difference between becoming a Pamela Anderson clone or having the breasts you want.

For more information please visit http://www.andrewives.com.au/plastic-surgery-procedures/breast-surgery

NAIL SALON NIGHTMARE!

Ok, so I had never been to a ‘nail salon’ until 2 weeks ago.

I have always worked in amazing beauty salons, skin clinics, beauty colleges and day spas, so I have always have access to the best beauty therapists this way, and have always had my nails done in-house.

At my engagement party 4 months ago, I stubbed one of my big toenails and it went black and fell off.    By the time my wedding came around I still only had a 3^rd of a toenail on this toe.  So I decided to go to a local nail salon who could add an acrylic tip to my toenail, so I would be all ready for my wedding day. 

Now listen, I had heard that some nail salons could be a little dirty or un-hygienic, but didn’t really believed it – I thought this may have been a bit of a media “beat-up?”.

When I arrived I was initially pleasantly surprised at how well groomed the staff were – although the decor did leave a little to be desired.  This is where the pleasant surprises end...

This is how my experience went:

·         My ‘therapist’ showed me to her manicure table?– which I thought was odd because I was having a toenail done – but I was new to this, so who was I to question?

·         I noticed a thick covering of nail dust all over the manicure table – ALL OVER!  I am not one to run a finger over things to see how clean things are – not at all.  This dust was completely obvious!  Already I started wondering why there are people actually having their nails done here – and why they haven’t all walked out because of the un-hygienic state of things...  but then I was still there – I didn’t want to offend anyone.

·         Next I couldn’t help noticing the emery boards were still covered in white nail dust from the previous clients – and the buffing machine was also still completely covered in white nail dust! Yuck!  This nail dust would contain funguses and worse!

·          Still I stayed.

·         Then I noticed that all of the cleaning equipment was dirty, and covered in splashes of nail polish.  As was the fan. There were also crumpled dirty tissues on the desk.  Hmmm.  Still I stayed.

·         Ok, now this is the real kicker...  As I said I was confused as to why I was sitting at a manicure station to have my toenail done – especially when I could see there were pedicure chairs available.  I didn’t know where I would be putting my foot for my therapist to have access to it?  Would I be asked to fling it up on to the manicure station?  No...  She dragged a bin across and asked me to rest my foot on top of the lid... an actual rubbish bin!  A stainless steel flip-top bin with a bin liner in it!  And every time she had rubbish, I had to lift my foot up off the bin so she could put her rubbish in it!  FYI she did not lay down any covering over the bin.. so my skin was actually touching the bin.

·         Still I stayed   

After this I tried to tune out and pretend I wasn’t really there.

My treatment was eventually over and I got out of there.

What is the moral of this story?  Thank the heavens we have Beauty By Theresa on board!  Theresa is an absolute clean and hygiene freak!  And we love her for it!  

Now I play the waiting game to see what if any infections come up in my toe nail... I’m already feeling a little sore.

Paula :)

RESVERATROL SUPPLEMENTS FIGHT AGAINST CELLULAR AGEING!

THERE HAS RECENTLY BEEN A LOT OF TALK IN THE MEDIA ABOUT THE POWERFUL ANTI-AGEING BENEFITS OF RESVERATROL.  I HAVE LOOKED INTO THE RESEARCH TO LET YOU KNOW EXACTLY HOW POWERFUL THIS INGREDIENT IS,  WHETHER IT IS SAFE, AND WHAT RESULTS YOU CAN EXPECT TO ACHIEVE BY USEING RESVERATROL....

 

Most People in Australia often hear that consuming a glass of dark wine could be healthy but they are not aware of why exactly this is correct. In 2006, scientists in the Harvard School Of Medicine and also the National Institute on Ageing (NIA) reported that the natural substance present in dark wine, referred to as resveratrol supplements, can offset the side effects of the high-calorie diet and considerably extend lifespan.

So How can Resveratrol help you? Resveratrol:

·         Protects the skin against photo-ageing

·         Supports healthy ageing

·         Supports a healthy cardiovascular system

·         Support healthy blood glucose levels A

THE NITTY GRITTY...

How Does Resveratrol Protect the Skin Against Photo-ageing?

Excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is the key cause of premature ageing of the skin, including the formation of wrinkles and saggy skin. Photo-ageing from UVR appears to be mediated by the excessive breakdown of collagen and elastin within the dermis, along with a reduction in collagen synthesis from fibroblast cells within the dermis. The combination of increased collagen breakdown and reduced collagen synthesis results in a breakdown of dermal matrix, which may manifest as wrinkled and saggy skin.

Several studies provide evidence that resveratrol reduces UVR-induced skin ageing.  Another study found human fibroblasts treated with resveratrol increased fibroblast proliferation and inhibited collagenase activity, an enzyme that can also degrade collagen in the dermis.

Other research on resveratrol’s ability to reduce UVR-induced damage further supports its use in promoting healthy skin. Resveratrol treatment to UV exposed keratinocytes was also found to stimulate an increase in the production of endogenous antioxidant defence enzymes via the activation of the antioxidant response element (ARE) in the DNA, promoting cellular protection against oxidative stress.


How Does Resveratrol Support Healthy Ageing?

Resveratrol has been shown to regulate a number of key areas of physiology and cellular function, including supporting pathways that tend to become dysfunctional during ageing. An important effect of resveratrol in promoting healthy ageing is its ability to activate the regulatory protein, sirtuin 1.  This is an enzyme that modulates a number of intracellular transcription factors via deacylation. These factors help to combat conditions that are associated with ageing, such as obesity, inflammatory diseases, diabetes, muscular dysfunction and cancer. 


On Top of All This Resveratrol also:

·         Supports a healthy cardiovascular system

·         Supports healthy blood glucose levels

Safety:

Resveratrol has been found to be a very safe ingredient.  That being said, Resveratrol is a very strong anti-oxidant.  If you are on any medication or have any health conditions, please check with your doctor before beginning to take this supplement.   There are some medications it is best not to combine with.

Results in Summary:

Resveratrol should be used by those wanting to have a healthier and more comfortable life in the latter years.   Resveratrol has also been shown in studies to increase life expectancy.  Resveratrol should also be used by those wanting to maintain the youthful elements in their skin.  Resveratrol has also been shown to significantly counteract the effects of ageing.


How can you start using Resveratrol?

·         Begin taking a ‘one-a-day’ Supplement.  I recommend Ethical Nutrient’s Resveratrol Age Defence.

·         Include Resveratrol in your daily skin care.  I recommend Aspect Dr Resveratrol Moisturising Crème.

Resveratrol is best used daily and long term.  If this is done, you will definitely reap the reward with your health internally and also externally with healthy and youthful looking skin.


Enjoy Health!

Paula x J

ANOTHER 3 PRODUCT THAT YOU DON'T NEED!

 THAT MARKETING COMPANIES WOULD LOVE YOU TO BUY :)

Neck creams:

Please see these 3 important reasons that you DO NOT need a separate ‘neck cream’:

1.       There are no product ingredients that are developed exclusively for the neck. 

2.       The way a product interacts with the skin is identical for the face and the neck. 

3.       The serums you use on your face for anti-ageing and firming – such as Vitamin C and Vitamin A work exactly the same on the neck.

These 'neck creams' are generally over-priced and over packaged.  They really can be a waste of your hard earned money that could be better spent and products that will actually make a genuine difference.

Our plastic surgeon Andrew Ives highly recommends Vitamin C and Vitamin A serums combined.  These 2 serums have amazing collagen boosting power to create firming, smoothing and clearing. 

If your neck is really a concern for you, please look into the "Cutera Titan" laser.  It is expensive, but has good results with firming and toning.  A consultation with a plastic surgeon may also be something to think about.

If it is a manageable concern, stick with your vitamin A and C serums - and see the difference!  Ask your skin clinic to do before and after photos for you. 

Overpriced cleansers:

A cleanser that is priced at over $100 is way over-priced!

A cleanser is not in contact with the skin long enough for some of these high end ingredients to work.

With a cleanser it is best to keep it simple.  Save your money for something that is going to stay in contact with your skin a little longer than 20 seconds.

That said - it is important to remember that the cleansing step is extremely important to get right.

The primary purpose of a cleanser is to gently clean the skin without stripping the skin of its barrier. 

Different skin types require different strengths of cleansing. 

 If skin is over-cleansed it can lead to irritation, dryness, dehydration and sensitivities that any amount of moisturising or serums will not be able to correct.

Similarly – if a skin is under-cleansed, congestion, blackhead, pimples and acne can result.

 It is best to contact your nearest skin clinic for expert advice on the correct cleanser for your skin.

Astringent Toner:

10 to 20 years ago, it was believed that toning was an important step in our daily skin care routines.  This step was to:  1. ‘Shrink’ the pores, and 2. Remove all traces of cleanser.

1.       ‘Shrink’ the pores.  Since then we have found out that there actually is no way of ‘shrinking’ pores.  They are the size they are – no amount of witch hazel or alcohol applied to the skin can change that. 

We can however reduce that appearance of larger pores with courses of chemical peels, microdermabrasion, CIT and laser treatments.  These treatments smooth over the surface of skin, to create a more level and even appearance.

2.       Remove all traces of cleanser.   10 to 20 years ago, cleansers were highly synthetic, containing strong irritants.  This is why the ‘toning’ step was important.  If traces were left on the skin, irritation was likely to occur. 

Thankfully the way cleansers (especially professional cleansers) are formulated has changed.  Most professional quality cleansers are based on natural ingredients and have a slight hydrating quality.  If traces are left on the skin, it is perfectly fine, and it will have no impact on the skin whatsoever.

My advice, once again – leave out the ‘toning’ step, put that money back into your purse and save it for something that will actually make an impact on your skin.

What is important to include in your skin care routine?

Everyone should do the very basics – cleanse the skin, protect your skin from the sun, and moisturise.  If your interest is to make actual changes to your skin e.g. reverse the signs of ageing and get clearer skin – the very best thing you can do is get advice from your local skin clinic – they will point you in the right direction J

Happy shopping!

Paula J