Category Archive Cosmetic Surgery

The Benefits and Risks of Breast Reconstruction Surgery

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Bangalore. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), breast cancer accounts for approximately 25% – 30% of all cancers among women in Bangalore. The incidence of breast cancer in Bangalore is increasing due to various factors, including lifestyle changes, genetic predisposition, and ageing. Therefore, if you see signs of breast cancer, you should go to a cancer hospital in bangalore and get it checked. Early detection is crucial for better outcomes, with more people susceptible to cancer. Regular breast self-exams, clinical breast exams, and mammograms are recommended for women to detect breast cancer early. The best cancer hospital in bangalore offers comprehensive care for breast cancer patients. A cancer hospital in bangalore will also have a team of skilled doctors and surgeons who use advanced technology and treatment options to provide the best care. 

If you’ve been suffering from cancer and have undergone procedures to remove breast tissues, you might want to consider Breast reconstruction surgery. This surgery is a procedure that aims to rebuild the shape and size of a breast following a mastectomy or lumpectomy. The decision to undergo breast reconstruction surgery is personal, and it is essential to weigh the benefits and risks before making a decision. This blog will detail the benefits and risks of breast reconstruction surgery.

Fighting with cancer

Benefits of Breast Reconstruction Surgery

Improved Appearance: Breast reconstruction surgery can help restore the shape and size of the breast, improving the appearance of the chest area.

Improved Self-Esteem: Breast reconstruction surgery can help improve a woman’s self-esteem by restoring her body’s natural shape and symmetry.

Psychological Benefits: Women who have undergone breast reconstruction surgery report feeling more confident and positive about their body image.

Reduced Need for Prosthetics: Breast reconstruction surgery can eliminate the need for external prosthetics, such as breast forms or bras with inserts.

Surgeon performing cosmetic surgery on breasts in hospital operating room.

Better Clothing Fit: Breast reconstruction surgery can improve the fit of clothing and swimwear, making it easier to find clothing that fits well and feels comfortable.

More Natural Look and Feel: Modern breast reconstruction techniques can create a more natural-looking and feeling breast than older techniques.

Risks of Breast Reconstruction Surgery

Surgical Risks: As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with breast reconstruction surgery, including bleeding, infection, and anaesthesia complications.

Pain and Discomfort: Breast reconstruction surgery can cause pain and discomfort during recovery.

Scarring: Breast reconstruction surgery can leave scars, which may be visible depending on the location of the incision.

Delayed Healing: Breast reconstruction surgery can delay healing, which can prolong the recovery period.

Complications: Complications may occur during or after breast reconstruction surgery, such as implant rupture, capsular contracture, and infection.

Emotional Distress: Breast reconstruction surgery can be emotionally distressing, particularly for women who have undergone treatment for breast cancer.

Breast reconstruction surgery can provide many benefits, including improved appearance, self-esteem, and psychological benefits. However, there are also risks associated with the procedure, such as surgical risks, pain, scarring, and complications. Women should carefully consider the abovementioned factors before deciding on breast reconstruction surgery. It is essential to discuss the options with a plastic surgeon to determine the best type of reconstruction for individual needs and the recovery period, costs, and personal preferences. Ultimately, the decision to undergo breast reconstruction surgery is personal, and it is essential to make the decision based on individual needs and goals. With the proper information and guidance, women can make an informed decision that meets their needs and helps them achieve their desired outcome.

Botox – Procedure, Risk and Treatment

What is Botox?

Botox is an injectable drug, which is used in cosmetic treatments to treat fine lines and wrinkles on the face. It is a type of protein made from Botulinum toxin, a substance produced by the bacterium – Clostridium botulinum, which is usually found in nature like – forests, lakes, soil, and in mammals and fish intestines. Temporary paralysis is caused in the muscle in which the drug is injected. The muscle is unable to contract as all the nerve signals to it get blocked.

What are the uses of Botox?

Botox is a poison, but when used properly and in small doses by doctors, it is very beneficial. Earlier, Botox was only used for medical treatment of problems like- blepharospasm and other eye muscle issues. However, later it was approved to be used for cosmetic treatments and other problems as stated below.

Cosmetic Treatment –

• Frown lines (wrinkles between the eyebrows)
• Crow’s feet (wrinkles around the eyes)
• Forehead furrows (horizontal creases on the forehead)
• Lines at the corners of the mouth
• Gummy smile correction
• Cobblestone skin on the chin
• Thick neck bands
• Lip lines 
• Thick jaw muscles

Medical Treatment-

• Hyperhidrosis (severe underarm sweating)
• Overactive Bladder
• Lower limb spasticity
• Chronic migraine
• Cervical dystonia (neurological disorder causing neck and shoulder muscle spasm)
• Blepharospasm (uncontrollable blinking of eyes)
• Strabismus (eyes pointing in different directions)

How does Botox Cosmetic Treatment work?

In today’s world, Botox has become one of the most common types of Cosmetic Treatment. But why?

No one wants to grow old, however, even if you can’t stop aging, you can still look young by your face and Botox is the most appropriate and simple solution for it. 

Botox Cosmetic Treatment is a non-surgical minimal invasive treatment that helps in the rejuvenation of your face by reducing fine lines and wrinkles, thus making you look younger than you are. The muscles in which Botox is injected do not contract, as all the signals from the nerves to that muscle get blocked. Which results in relaxing and softening of wrinkles and lines on the face. It is done by the best plastic surgeon in Delhi to ensure you get the desired results to your complete satisfaction.

It is considered a safe and effective treatment to treat wrinkles around the eyes, forehead lines, and frown lines. It is also used to modify other facial features like a defined jawline, lifting the corners of the mouth, smile correction, and many more. The end result is that your face appears to be younger.

What is the procedure of Botox Cosmetic Treatment?

Since Botox is a non surgical treatment, it hardly requires any preparation. And since it is a minimal invasive procedure without any incisions, it only takes a few minutes and you don’t really need anesthesia.

But before the procedure, make sure that your doctor knows about your medical history or allergies. And to help prevent bruising, you should not take any anti-inflammatory medication 2 weeks before botox treatment.

After removing all your makeup and cleaning the treatment area, your neuromuscular tissue will be injected with Botulinum diluted with saline. For a furrowed brow, you will be injected in a targeted area between the eyebrows. For crow’s feet (wrinkles around the eyes) you will need at least 3 injections on the side of each eye. The entire procedure takes around 10 minutes to get completed.

Post Procedure and Results

After getting Botox done, you should not apply pressure, rub or massage the injection site for at least 24 hours, otherwise, there is a risk of spreading the Botox to other surrounding areas. You will also be asked to sit upright for 4 hours by the doctor and to lay off exercising for a day.  

You can start seeing the results after 24-72 hours. It may take up to 1 to 2 weeks to show full effect. 

How long does a Botox treatment last?

This treatment may last for 3 to 12 months depending on the type and area of treatment. Wrinkles and lines start coming back as the muscle action starts coming back gradually and will require treatment again. However, these lines and wrinkles will show less insight as the facial muscles are being trained to relax by shrinking.

What are the Risks and Side-effects of getting a Botox treatment?

Usually, there are hardly any side effects of getting Botox. There might be a little bruising or discomfort, but it goes away in some time. Side-effects include – 

• Bruising around the injection site
• Eyelids drooping
• Swelling in the eyes area
• Headache
• Weakness 
• Numbness
• Dry eyes
• Double vision
• Upset stomach
• Allergic reaction, like- rash, or itching

If these effects don’t subside, you should immediately call your doctor.

Who should avoid getting Botox done?

Generally, people who are above the age of 18 and have good health can get Botox done. But some people should not go through this treatment if they are

• Breastfeeding 
• Pregnant 
• Have a neurosurgical disease
• Allergic to any of the ingredients used in Botox

FAQ’s

Q-1. What is the cost of Botox Surgical Treatment?

Ans. For a full-face botox procedure that covers fine lines, wrinkles, crow’s feet, and forehead, a single session cost can vary between Rs. 15000 – Rs. 18000.

Q-2. Is Botox painful?

Ans. Botox is not a painful procedure. Some people might feel some pain and discomfort due to the injection, but it goes away after a short period of time.

Q-3. Is Botox safe?

Ans. Yes, Botox is safe, unless the person is breastfeeding, pregnant, has a neurosurgical disease, or is allergic to any of the ingredients used in Botox.

Q-4. Can you stop Botox once you have started getting it?

Ans. Yes, you can stop Botox if you want. It will cause no harm to your face. Just your muscles will not be as relaxed as they were before you first got Botox done.

Q-5. Does Botox make you look older after it wears off?

Ans. No, once your Botox wears off, you will not look older. In fact, the opposite happens. Botox will help you get rid of facial wrinkles and lines.

Fillers – Procedure, Risk and Treatment

What are Fillers?

As you age, your skin becomes more prone to wrinkles and sagging. This happens due to a gradual decrease in muscle volume and elasticity caused due to sun exposure and muscle movement throughout your life like when- smiling, eating, grinning, frowning, and many more. To rejuvenate their face and get rid of these wrinkles and sagging skin, people get fillers, also known as dermal fillers, wrinkle fillers, and soft-tissue fillers.

Why are Fillers used?

As the name suggests, Fillers are used to filling the face/skin to make it look smooth and full. They are natural or artificial soft, gel-like substances that are injected under the skin (lines, tissues, and folds) to enhance it and make it look younger by adding more volume and fullness to that area. Fillers are used for various purposes like –

• To smoothen out deep under-eye circles and wrinkles
• To eliminate wrinkles
• To correct scar depressions
• To get more fuller and voluminous lips
• To erase smile lines
• To smooth outlines around the nose
• To smooth out hand wrinkles
• Fill in the shallow areas on the face
• Improve facial features symmetry

What are Fillers made of?

Fillers can be temporary or long-lasting. There are various types of filters used by cosmetic doctors each having their own features and ingredients. The most commonly used Fillers are –

• Hyaluronic Acid (HA)

Hyaluronic acid is a soft gel-like substance already present in your skin. It keeps the skin plump and hydrated by adding volume to cheeks, removing wrinkles around the eyes, lips, and forehead. The results are temporary, they last between 6 to 12 months since it is a naturally present substance in the human body, and the skin gradually absorbs it. To avoid discomfort during and after treatment, Hyaluronic Acid is infused with lidocaine. Brand names are – Juvederm and Restylane.

• Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHa)

CaHa is found in your bones (naturally occurring substance). Calcium particles are mixed with a smooth gel before they are injected into the skin. When used as a filler, CaHa stimulates the natural production of collagen to smooth out deep wrinkles and lines. Calcium Hydroxylapatite has a thickened consistency than HA, and thus it lasts longer – usually for about a year. The brand name is Radiesse.

• Poly-L-Lactic acid

Poly-L-Lactic acid is a biodegradable synthetic substance that is safe to use on the human body. They stimulate the rebuilding of natural collagen to smoothen out lines and wrinkles-and the filler gets dissolved by itself after a few days of the treatment. This filler is semi-permanent as it can last for 2 years. Brand name- Sculptra Aesthetic.

• Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA)

Polymethylmethacrylate is a synthetic substance. When used as a filler, PMMA is made into tiny balls (microspheres) which are injected under the skin and remain there to provide a continuous lift to that area. It also contains collagens, which remove lines and keeps the skin firm. It is a permanent filler with results lasting for 5 years. However, they are not the first choice of a doctor as these long-term fillers have a higher rate of complications like infection. They are marketed under the brand name- Bellafill.

• Autologous fat injections (fat grafting)

Autologous fat injections are a technique that requires surgery. In this, fat from your other body parts like buttocks is extracted and injected into facial areas. The fat is vacuumed out of the body with a hollow tube that is inserted into the skin through incisions. This method is called liposuction. It helps restore volume in cheeks, lower eyelids, and other areas. The results last for a very long time. This method should be performed by highly skilled doctors only and it may take a week or two to fully recover after getting this treatment done.

What to expect during treatment?

Pre-Procedure

Filler injections are non-surgical (except autologous fat injections) and can take from 15 minutes to 1 hour depending upon the quantity and product which needs to be used. But before the treatment begins, you will meet with the cosmetic doctor for consultation. During this time, the doctor will check the area in which you want fillers and also review your medical history like – any previous medical treatment, skin condition, allergies, or any medication that can lead to harm or treatment failure. They will also inform you about the fillers, how they work and what you should expect in results.

Filler Treatment Procedure

Once you have met with the cosmetic surgeon, and have understood the Filler treatment process. The procedure will be as follows –

• Firstly, the place where the filler is to be injected will be cleaned and the area will either be injected with tropic anesthesia or numbing cream will be applied so that you have minimal discomfort during and after your treatment.
• Once the area has become numb, the excess numbing cream will be removed (if it is used) and the area which needs to be injected will be marked to avoid injecting fillers in the wrong area.
• After clearing the area again, the doctor will inject your skin with the chosen product and amount to give volume and fullness, making it look rejuvenated.
• In the end, an antibiotic cream is applied over the injection site. 

Post Procedure

You might be able to notice the results immediately depending upon the product type, amount, and the area in which it has been injected. Some people have mild bruising or swelling, but this is temporary and should go away in a few days. Following this, you can return to your all day to day activities. However, there are certain aftercare instructions for Filler Treatment that you should follow-

• Don’t massage the infection site for at least 2 days after the procedure.
• Don’t expose your skin to the sun or excessive heat for 2-3 days.
• Don’t do any strenuous activities or exercise for 2 days.
• If possible, sleep on your back for the next couple of days.

How long do these Fillers last?

The duration of these fillers depends upon the product, site of treatment, and the metabolic rate of the patient. Generally, a product which is denser and more deeply injected will last longer than others.

Hyaluronic Acid Fillers – 

• • • Natural substance
    • Temporary Fillers 
    • Lasts for 6 to 12 months
    •  Recommended for first-time patients

Calcium Hydroxylapatite Fillers-

• • • Natural substance
    • Last for at least 1 year (longer than Hyaluronic acid fillers)

Poly-L-Lactic acid Fillers-

• • • Biodegradable synthetic substance
    • Can last for 2 years
    • Semi-permanent Fillers

Polymethylmethacrylate Fillers-

• • • Synthetic substance
    • Can last for 5 years
    • Permanent Fillers

Autologous fat injections 

• • • Fat grafting
    • Last indefinitely

Polymethylmethacrylate Fillers-

• • • Synthetic substance
    • Can last for 5 years
    • Permanent Fillers

What are the risks and side-effects of getting Fillers?

There are some patients who have side effects after getting Fillers, but these do not last and might clear away within a week or two.

Side-effects – 

• Mild Bruising
• Swelling
• Pain
• Skin rash, itching, or pimple-like eruptions
• Redness

Risks – 

• Infection
• Filler leakage from the injection site
• Filler displacement
• Tissue death or blindness due to blockage in blood flow
• Lumps, Nodules develop around filler injected area (may need to be surgically removed)

Don’t get fillers if – 

• You are pregnant, breast-feeding or are below the age of 18
• You have a rash or active acne
• You have a bleeding disorder
• You are allergic to any of the ingredients used in the filler.
• You have keloid or overgrowth of scar tissue

What are the things to be kept in mind before getting fillers?

Even if getting Fillers is generally safe, there are certain things which you should keep in mind beforehand – 

• Only go to a highly experienced and trained medical professional to get your Fillers done.
• Make sure to tell the doctor about your medical history, health conditions, or any medication you are on. For example – you should not take ibuprofen before getting fillers, as it makes the blood thin which could lead to bruising.
• Make sure that the treatment is done in a sanitized medical setting and not in places like- home, spa, hotel, etc.
• Only use the filler that the medical provider gives, don’t purchase it online. Make sure they are medically approved and ask them about the ingredients in it to avoid anything which could lead to allergy.
• After getting Fillers, use sunscreen daily to preserve the fillers and save them from inflammation. 

Hair Transplant – Procedure, Risk and Treatment

As humans, we tend to overlook the importance of good health for our hair, until they are gone. If you are one of those oblivious people, hair transplant is what you need to restore a healthy scalp. (not that it matters) It will definitely make you feel more confident about how you look. But first, let us understand the procedure, need and results of hair transplantation.

What is Hair Transplantation?

Hair transplantation is a surgical procedure to fill a bald spot or a spot with thin hair. In this procedure, hair is taken from one part of the body known as the donor site and placed, grafted or implanted at the balding part of the body known as the recipient site. 

Hair transplantation is a modern procedure, which is generally used to treat male patterns of baldness. In most cases, hair is taken from the back of the head as it is an area that is not at risk of balding. There is no risk of rejection of the transferred hair tissue as it is not foreign tissue. This technique is becoming extremely popular these days, due to the high success rate and advancement in its procedure.

What is hair loss?

Losing 50-100 hair a day is normal because, with more than 1,00,000 on your head, such a small loss is indistinguishable. This is how it works- the hair grows, stays for a while and then after an interval of time, it falls down. The lost hair is replaced with new hair and this cycle keeps repeating. But in some cases, this cycle gets disturbed and no new hair grows in the place of the fallen hair. If this continues for a while, you will start noticing thinning of hair or even see bald patches appearing on your scalp. This condition is known as hair loss. It can be permanent or temporary. In this case, you should immediately consult your doctor to determine the cause behind the hair loss and devise a treatment plan for you.

What are the symptoms of hair loss?

In most cases, you may notice high hair fall during washing or combing your hair. The symptoms of hair loss are-

• Receding hairline
• Visible bald spots or scalp
• Thinning of hair at crown area
• Eyebrow and eyelashes hair loss

What are the reasons for hair loss?

There are multiple reasons which can lead to hair loss, like-

• Heredity
• Stress 
• Hormonal Imbalance
• Poor nutrition
• Medical conditions
• Medication

How is hair transplantation done?

Hair transplantation is done using two methods-

• Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT)
• Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE)

Hair Transplant Procedure

• After conducting a few tests to check if you can get hair transplantation surgery, the surgeon will examine the bald spot.
• Once you are called to the clinic for the treatment, the surgeon will clean your scalp and give you a local anesthesia to numb the area over your head.
• Now, the surgeon will conduct the surgery and choose one method to obtain follicles for transplantation also called Hair Grafting.

Follicular Unit Transplantation (FUT)

• Also known as Follicle Unit Strip Surgery (FUSS), in this method, the surgeon will cut out a strip of scalp skin, generally from the back of your head with the help of a scalpel. The incision made, which could be several inches long depending on the requirement will be then closed with the help of stitches.
• Now, using magnifying lenses and a surgical knife, the surgeon will cut the donor scalp into tiny follicular units. They could make as many as 2000 units, known as grafts. These grafts contain one or multiple hair follicles.
• At the bald spot (recipient spot), the surgeon will use a needle to make small holes, in which these grafts will be planted. This process is known as grafting.
• Once all the follicle units have been planted, the surgeon will close the surgical area with the help of bandages for a few days.

Follicular Unit Extraction (FUE)

• In this method, the surgeon uses specialised tools to directly extract hair follicles from the draft skin by making thousands of tiny punch incisions.
• Since there is no long incision, you will usually not require stitches and the scarring will be less noticeable. 
• Just like in FTE, these grafts will be then planted in the holes made at the recipient site.
• Bandages will then be placed on your scalp to cover it for a few days.

A single hair transplantation session can take 4 to 8 hour, depending upon various factors.

Post Surgery

Once the surgery is complete, your scalp will be very tender for a while. The bandage will be removed after a couple of days.  You will be taking pain medication for a few days to alleviate the pain and swelling. They also reduce the chances of infection. And you will be called after approximately 10 days for removing the stitches. You might need another hair transplantation depending on the hair loss. 

It will take several days until you can return back to your work life. The transplanted hair will fall off after 2-3 weeks. And you will be able to see noticeable hair growth within or after nine months of the surgery.

What are the side effects of Hair Transplantation?

There are some side effects of hair transplantation, but they go away within a few days or weeks. They are-

• Bleeding
• Numbness in the area of surgery
• Itching 
• Swelling in the scalp
• Infection
• Bruise marks around eyes
• Growth of unnatural looking hair 
• Shock loss, or loss of transplanted hair
• Crust formation on the area of surgery
• Folliculitis, inflammation, or infection in the hair follicles

Advantages of hair transplantation surgery

• Boost in confidence
• Improved appearance
• Lower expenditure in hair maintenance

FAQ

Q-1. What is the cost of Hair Transplantation surgery?

Ans. The hair transplant cost in India is 2 lakhs rupees, which may go up to 5 lakhs rupees. is calculated based on the number of grafts required. Each Graft has 3 hair follicles. The procedure carries a cost of While some other low-cost treatments may be offered

Q-2. Is hair transplant permanent?

Ans. Yes, hair transplant is a permanent procedure.

Q-3. Will the hair transplant look natural?

Ans. If the transplant surgery is performed by a trained and experienced surgeon, the hair transplant will look absolutely natural and no one will be able to tell taht you have had a hair transplant. 

Q-4. Is the hair transplantation procedure painful?

Ans. The only time pain is felt is when the anesthesia is being injected into the scalp. And once you have been given anesthesia, the scalp becomes numb and you cannot feel any pain.

Q-5. How much time does it take to recover from the surgery?

Ans. Recovery time depends on person to person and the type of method used. Some might be able to return back to work within a couple of days while for some, it may take weeks to return back to work.

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