Liposuction

WELCOME TO MY FEBRUARY NEWSLETTER!

For February, I want to talk about Liposuction. It is a very popular procedure at my practice and one that brings my patients a lot of satisfaction.

Also, liposuction is a surgery that I find most patients want to add as a combination procedure.

I.e. Have your facelift and include some liposuction or a breast augmentation with additional liposuction.

I hope you enjoy the topic, remember you can also stay in touch via my Facebook and Twitter pages, or website

IS LIPOSUCTION RIGHT FOR YOU?

First things first! Liposuction is NOT a weight reducing procedure and ideally, patients should be within their healthy body weight for height range (BMI 19-25).

This cannot be stressed enough. Ideally we want to shape and remove stubborn, diet and exercise resistant fat with liposuction.

Any one or combination of the following conditions may indicate that you are a good candidate for liposuction surgery:

• Areas of fat deposits that are out of proportion with the rest of your body and do not go away with diet and exercise
• Diet Resistant fat

• Areas with minimal amounts of excess skin (Liposuction removes fat not skin) and good skin elasticity.

 We will discuss this in more detail during the consultation process, we will also talk about your aesthetic needs, if you want combination surgery and of course the surgical risks.

It is extremely important to be fully informed.

BEFORE YOUR LIPOSUCTION SURGERY

During the initial consultation, you may be asked to look in a mirror and point out exactly what you would like to see improved.

Knowing and understanding your needs is part of achieving your desired result.

Pictures may be taken of you, especially if the areas that will be treated are on your posterior aspect (back, buttock, etc.). This will help me understand your expectations and determine whether they can realistically be achieved.

A determination of the elasticity of the skin will also occur during the consultation. I have to know I can achieve what you need.

A discussion concerning your ideal weight and realistic weight will most likely occur during the consultation. Plans such as future pregnancies, etc. may be also discussed. These simple but often overlooked questions can radically affect your long-term results.

The amount of fat removed at any one session is restricted to 2,5 – 3 litres; this is to minimise the chances of postoperative complications. This is another reason why we want you to be close to your ideal weight.

WHAT IS RECOVERY LIKE?

Liposuction surgery is usually performed as a day case. If this is the case, be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery and to stay with you for the next 24 hours as precaution.

You will be uncomfortable for the first few days. Pain medication will keep you pain free but having help around the house is highly recommended.

If you are undergoing large volume liposuction, I will recommend you be hospitalised for the night.

Physical activity should be restricted for the first 24 hours post operatively for all Liposuction cases. Just because the pain medication will have you feeling well doesn’t mean you should be up and about.

After the first 24 hours, light exercise is encouraged but strenuous exercise should not be resumed for at least 4 weeks.

Post operatively Liposuction patients are required to wear a support garment for approximately 6 weeks to help minimise swelling and bruising, and to maintain the aesthetic result.

I estimate that it will take 6 months for all the swelling to subside and the final result to become visible. That said Liposuction has superb results and an incredibly high patient satisfaction rate.

 I hope that you all enjoyed this newsletter, make sure to come by regularly for more updates on all the treatments and procedures I offer at my Cape Town practice!

Feel free to make an appointment now if you would like to discuss your Liposuction options. Dial ( 021-671094  )

How to Get The Most Out of Your Surgery

Greetings

If you have finally booked and scheduled the procedure that you have always wanted – Congratulations! But do not let your money and time go to waste by tying your hands behind your back – there is much that you can do to get the most out of your surgery. The time prior to your surgery is of great importance – here are some hints that can help you use it wisely.

Mental Preparation:

• Understand that you may get the moody-blues during your down-time post surgery, so plan gentle activities for your recovery period: a couple of examples would be: books, movies, sorting out your photo albums etc.
• Ask your Surgeon all the questions to come to mind, write down things that will put you at ease – understand the procedure, know what to expect.
• Know that you will see results after your recovery-time, not after the surgery
• Search for blogs and chat rooms – there is a community of people who have undergone surgery – you will hear about both regrets and dreams come true

Medication Wise:

• Inform your Surgeon of the medication that you are on and the doses
• Your Surgeon will inform you as to what medication can be continued and what must be stopped
• Go get all your essential prescriptions filled out prior to the surgery – it is unlikely that you will feel like standing in the queue in the pharmacy post-surgery.
• Stop taking vitamins 2 weeks prior to the surgery

Food Wise:

• Avoid spicy and salty food two prior and post to quicken the rate of your swelling to go down.
• If you are having your surgery in the morning, stop eating and drinking by 5pm the night prior – this is an essential safety precaution – do not ignore this!
• Stock up on quick to prepare, soft,  easily digestible food for your post-surgery recovery-time

Exercise Wise:

• Keep exercising – you are going to miss it during your recovery-time but you will enter the surgery with a well prepared body that is fit to heal quickly.
• If you do not exercise ,start walking 15min a day, having a healthy heart and set of lungs greatly aids the healing process.
• Post-surgery your movements will be limited, be patient, you do not want to strain yourself and cause unnecessary post-operation complications.

House Wise; a Happy Home:

• Prep ice packs
• Buy gauze to change dressings & bandages;
• Take essential often used items off high shelves or out of low draws to avoid excessive stretching and bending;
• Get all big tasks done out of the way ;
• Organize a care-givers help for after,
• Depending on the surgery consider getting a walker;
• Pack away the mirrors and scale for at least two weeks post surgery

Packing For Hospital:

• ice packs ;
• comfy pajamas ;
• book ; music player with headphones ;
• comfortable clothes to go home in ;
• NB don’t forget identification essentials such as medical aid cards ;
• NB list of medications and doses that you usually take.

You have probably planned this procedure for some time, don’t let it go to waste, do what you can to get the most out of your surgery. If you have done all you can, and want to do more – I suggest then that you contact me at my offices on (021-6710942). Facebook. Twitter. Website.

Breast Augmentation, Part 5

What can you do to prepare for your surgery?

• If you smoke, it is essential that you reduce or stop smoking before your procedure and for some time afterward. Be sure to discuss this openly with your doctor.
• Make sure your physician is aware of any medications, supplements, and herbs you are currently taking. For instance, certain medications such as aspirin or ibuprofen can cause bleeding problems during and after the procedure.
• Eat a healthy diet and avoid drinking alcohol a few days prior to your procedure.
• Exercise is generally good for your overall health; however, refrain from extremely vigorous exercise the day before your breast augmentation procedure.
• Do not eat or drink anything, including water, after midnight the night before the procedure.
• The night before your procedure, shower and wash your surgical areas with antimicrobial soap. After your shower do not wear any makeup, moisturizers, oils, creams, or lotions — including deodorant.
• Remove nail polish from at least one fingernail and toenail to help the anesthesia person monitor your blood circulation during your procedure.
• The morning of your breast augmentation procedure you may brush your teeth, but do not swallow more than a sip of water. If your physician allows you to take any prescribed medication, swallow it with a minimal amount of water.
• When you go to your physician’s office, wear loose-fitting clothes that open in the front and comfortable flat shoes that slip on.

How long does the surgery generally take?

I usually perform breast augmentation surgeries within 45-60 minutes, however, time will vary according to each patient’s unique body & requests.

Would being under general anaesthetic for this period put you off undergoing breast augmentation surgery?

Post Surgery Down-Time

Patients are generally discharged the same day as their surgery. The recovery period varies from patient to patient but generally it takes only 3-5 days to return to work and 2 weeks rest is advised before engaging in vigorous exercise. Swelling & bruising disappears within short periods of time.

Have you had breast augmentation surgery? How long was your recovery?

Recovery does include:

Pain will be experienced for the first few days after the procedure‚ as occurs with any operation. However advances in pharmaceutic agents means that the pain will be well controlled with oral medication post-op. Swelling & bruising‚ these are again inevitable consequences of an operation and soon resolve.

Breast Feeding After Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation surgery is not known to affect the ability to breast feed.

Flying? Will my breast implants burst?

No, there is no chance of your implants bursting due to flying or climbing to a high altitude. Implants today are tough enough to be man-handled without the possibility of bursting.

I hope that you have enjoyed & been informed by this month’s discussion of Breast Augmentation. Please leave me suggestions as to topics that you wish to be discussed in the future, and don’t be shy to ask any questions.

Breast Augmentation, Part 3

Capsular Contraction

After having a breast implant, your body will create a capsule of fibrous scar tissue around the implant as part of the healing process. This reaction occurs when any foreign object is surgically implanted into the body.

In time, the scar tissue will begin to shrink. The shrinkage is known as Capsular Contraction. The rate and extent at which the shrinkage occurs varies from person to person. In some people, the capsule can tighten and squeeze the implant, making the breast feel hard. You may also experience pain and discomfort.

Can I avoid Capsular Contracture?
We as plastic surgeons do all we can to avoid complications from severe capsular contracture, and many patients never experience any issues regarding their breast implants. However, capsular contracture is an unavoidable complication of breast implant surgery. Everyone who has breast implants will experience capsular contracture to some degree.

Make an appointment to see me to discuss capsular contraction in detail before deciding to undergo breast augmentation surgery. Can contact me via email donald.hudson@uct.ac.za

Breast Augmentation, Part 2

Greetings, I hope you found Part 1 to be informative, today – we continue…

Am I a good candidate for breast augmentation?

 One or more of the following feelings or conditions may indicate that you are a good candidate for breast augmentation:

• You wish to change the size & shape of your breasts
• Clothes that fit well around your hips are often too large at the bustline
• You feel self-conscious wearing a swimsuit or form-fitting top
• Your breasts have become smaller and lost their firmness after having children
• Weight loss has changed the size and shape of your breasts
• One of your breasts is noticeably smaller than the other

What would your main reason be for wanting to undergo a breast augmentation?

What happens during a consultation?

During your consultation, we shall discuss your desired breast size and anything else related to the appearance of your breasts that you feel is important. Together we shall be able to determine what enhancements may be realistically achieved.

I will examine your breasts and perhaps take photographs for your medical record.

I will consider such factors as the size and shape of your breasts, the quality of your skin and the placement of your nipples and areolas (the pigmented skin surrounding the nipples).

If your breasts are sagging, a breast lift may be recommended in conjunction with augmentation.

Some advice for your breast augmentation consultation!

You should come to the consultation prepared to discuss your medical history. This will include information about:

• Any medical conditions,
• Drug allergies,
• Medical treatments you have received,
• Previous surgeries including breast biopsies, and
• Medications that you currently take.
• You will be asked whether you have a family history of breast cancer and about results of any mammograms.

It is important for you to provide complete information to ensure your desire results & safety.

Advantages & Disadvantages of Breast Augmentation

Advantages of Procedure

• Improved self image leading to improved self confidence
• The ability to wear clothes of your choice ‚ or the clothes you always wanted

Disadvantages of Procedure

• Scarring ‚ it is impossible to perform an operation without a scar. The aim is to achieve a scar that is about 5cm in length and ideally it should be placed such that it is barely visible and looks like a fine white line.
• With all surgery there comes a degree of risk. These risks will need to be discussed with you.

Tell me about the incisions and recovery from breast augmentation!

In principle 3 incisions can be used:

• The Inframamary (where the breast joins the tummy)
• Peri-areolar‚ around the areola (nipple)
• Trans-axillary, through the armpit

Did you know there are different shapes of breast implant?

There are options provided to suite each body type & desire. The classical round shape providing overall fullness & the tear-drop shape which allows an attractive straight-line fall from collar bone to nipple. Tear-drop shaped implants have a textured surface to reduce the chance of the implant from flipping / rotating undesirably.

During the consultation, together we shall decide upon the appropriate shape to suite your desires. To book a consultation please call 021 671 0942 alternatively you can contact me via email donald.hudson@uct.ac.za

Breast Augmentation, Part 1

November’s Discussion Topic: Breast Augmentation

The Choice to Enhance

Our bodies are our bodies. Breast enhancement is one way to have the body that you desire & love. I can aid you in enhancing your appearance. What do think makes breasts so alluring & sexy?

What is Breast Augmentation?

Breast augmentation is an enlarging of the breast by the placement of a prosthesis. The prosthesis can be placed behind the breast or behind the muscle. More recently, a so-called dual plane has been described in which the upper half of the breast is behind the muscle and the lower half in front of the muscle‚ which gives the best of both worlds.

Why undergo a Breast Augmentation?
The insertion of a prosthesis expands the breast area to:

• Give a fuller breast (increased cup size),
• Give a better contour, and
• Give more cleavage.

In certain cases the breast augmentation can be used to loft the breast. However if the breast sags, an additional procedure (mastopexy = lift) will also be required.

For more information please visit my website  or contact me on 083 502 6698.

What do your Breasts mean to your Partner?

In Western Culture, bare / exposed breasts have been paired with sexual activity – this is less so in other cultures. However, in Western Culture the breasts traditionally covered, only when the female reveals her breasts does she indicate that she is open to sexual activity.

Breasts may also represent fertility, a fullness represents promise. What thoughts do you want your partner to associate with your breasts?

Remember to keep visiting as I shall be posting Parts to follow. You can also find me on Facebook and Twitter

Prof Donald Hudson

Greetings, I am Professor Donald Hudson, my passion to aid others has lead me to become the Head of the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the University of Cape Town and Groote Schuur Hospital.

I graduated from the University of Cape Town & became a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons in 1989, & a Fellow of the College of Surgeons of South Africa (Plastic Surgery) in 1992. I further enriched my skills by obtaining a Master of Medicine Degree in Plastic Surgery at UCT.

I regularly review for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Journal & have successfully published over 120 peer-reviewed articles. My immersement in the academics of surgery has kept me at the forefront of innovation.

My clients have allowed me to gain 25 years of experience, in which I have become skilled in the following procedures:

• Tummy Tuck
• Mini Tummy Tuck
• Breast Augmentation
• Facelift
• Liposuction
• Mastopexy
• Armlift
• Botox
• Breast Reduction
• Ears Setback
• Fillers
• Genital Surgery
• Nose Job
• Skin Rejuvenation
• Surgery After Weight Loss
• Thigh Lift

As you can see there is no part of our wonderful bodies that should ever make us feel self-conscious.
Honesty is key, for this reason, visit my website & see the advantages & disadvantages of each procedure.

Body modification has an ancient history with various cultural meanings attached in different contexts. It is often seen as a means of reclaiming the body, with personalization marking the individual as unique within the society / population. I believe plastic surgery allows people to be empowered in that they can take control & choose.

Plastic Surgery has grown over the years, becoming more precise & effective. There now exists a range of procedures, but is there something missing?

I really hope you liked these points, and I hope that you stay connected by using my social media pages to find the answers to your plastic surgery questions. Don’t forget you can also follow me on Facebook Twitter @ProfDHudson

This is my first experience of an online platform such as this; please do not hesitate to leave comments – guiding me to your queries. Or you can visit my webpage www.donaldhudson.co.za