Body

Many people may think that spider veins and varicose veins are the same things, and they are terms that can be used interchangeably. With names that sound very similar, it is no wonder there is some confusion and misunderstanding. While there are similarities, they are in fact two different conditions.

So what exactly is the difference between spider veins and varicose veins?

What are spider veins?

Spider veins, otherwise referred to as leg thread veins, will look like small red or blue lines, and will often resemble a spider’s web. They will appear just below the surface of the skin and will commonly appear in the legs and the face. Spider veins will appear to be around 1mm in diameter.

Those who have spider veins will generally not feel any associated pain as a result of the veins. Furthermore, they will not lead to any other secondary health conditions.

Treatment for spider veins is considered cosmetic.

What are varicose veins?

Varicose veins are twisted blue veins that will appear to be bulging beneath the surface of the skin. Varicose veins are larger in size than spider veins and will be around 3mm in diameter. They will typically appear in the legs.

Varicose veins can cause the legs to feel heavier or can result in swelling and discomfort. You can also experience leg fatigue, cramps or restless legs.

In some instances, varicose veins can lead to further health conditions. As a result, it is sometimes necessary to treat varicose veins in order to fix any current symptoms and avoid any future problems.

Treating varicose veins is not considered a cosmetic procedure. While it can improve the aesthetics of your legs, the removal of varicose veins can improve the quality of life and prevent other health conditions, such as blood clots, from occurring.

What causes spider and varicose veins?

While they are two separate conditions, the causes are actually relatively similar. The causes for both spider and varicose veins include:

• Pregnancy
• Ageing
• Obesity
• Genetics
• Types of clothing worn, such as high heels and tight, restrictive clothes
• Sitting or standing for long periods of time

If the veins appeared as a result of pregnancy, in most cases they will go away three months after pregnancy.

Both spider and varicose veins are more likely to occur in women than in men.

In some cases, losing weight, elevating the legs or avoiding sitting and standing for long periods of time will help to improve any symptoms.

How are spider veins treated?

There are numerous options for the removal of spider veins:

• Injection sclerotherapy: this is the most common treatment. This involves injecting a solution directly into the veins. The lining of the blood vessels then become irritated and collapse. Without any blood supply, the spider veins turn to scar tissue and will no longer be visible.
• Laser removal: the laser will use heat to target the blood vessel. This causes the blood vessel to coagulate and the vein breaks down. The vein will then naturally be dissolved by the body and will no longer be visible. This method will generally require multiple treatments to achieve the desired results.

How are varicose veins treated?

Injection sclerotherapy is a common treatment type for varicose veins. However, there are other options for removal, including:

• Microphlebectomy: if injection sclerotherapy is not a suitable option, microphlebectomy is often the next step. This involves the surgeons making a small incision in order to get access to the vein. A phlebectomy hook is then used to remove a section of the varicose vein. For some people, multiple treatments will be necessary.
• EndoVenous laser ablation: this involves using Fotona’s laser to remove the varicose veins. A needle is used to puncture the vein. Through this entry point, a catheter with a laser fibre is inserted into the vein. The Nd:YAG laser then deposits thermal energy into the vein wall and blood. The veins around the varicose veins can then reduce normal blood flow to the affected area. This procedure improves the physical appearance of the varicose veins as well as any associated symptoms.

If you suspect you have either spider veins or varicose veins, book a consultation with one of the surgeons at Centre for Surgery. They will be able to diagnose the correct type of vein, as well as suggest the best surgical or non-surgical removal options for you.

Brachioplasty, otherwise known as an arm lift, is a cosmetic surgical procedure which contours and reshapes the arms. This procedure is commonly performed on the upper arms. It aims to remove excess skin and excess fat from the arms.

As we age, the arms tend to gain weight and lose muscle tone and as a result, begin to look more ‘flabby.’ The arms are an area which often does not respond well to diet and exercise regimes. This can often leave people with low self-esteem and body confidence and will cause people to wear clothes which will cover the upper arms. A brachioplasty is therefore seen as a desirable solution.

However, it is not common knowledge that there is more than one type of arm lift which can be performed.

So what are the different types of brachioplasty?

Traditional brachioplasty

This involves removing excess skin from beneath the upper arm. The traditional brachioplasty involves a long scar which will run along the arm from the underarm towards the elbow. If necessary, liposuction will also be undertaken to remove any excess fat.

This method is suitable for those who have lots of excess skin which they are wanting to remove. The downside to this procedure is the long, visible scar which runs down the upper arm. However, if you choose to undertake this surgical method, your surgeon will be able to advise you on ways which you can help the scar become less visible over time.

Minimal incision brachioplasty

For those who do not wish to undergo an arm lift because of the long scar, there are other options. Those who have good skin elasticity and who have less excess skin to remove may be suitable for the minimal incision brachioplasty.

This method allows for the incision to take place under the arm, making it much less visible. This option may not be suitable for those who have a large amount of excess skin and those who have poor skin laxity, as you may not be able to remove all the excess skin and will not be able to achieve the best results.

Extended brachioplasty

Some people may find the excess skin extends from the arms and is also present on the chest. If this is the case, the extended brachioplasty may be the best method. This involves the same incision as the traditional brachioplasty, with an incision running from the elbow to the underarm. However, the incision for the extended brachioplasty continues under the arm and onto the chest wall to allow for the removal of further excess skin.

How can I tell which method of brachioplasty is right for me?

You may be able to gain a good idea about which brachioplasty method is best for you just by looking at how much excess skin you have, and knowing whether or not you would be ok with having a more noticeable scar.

Prior to undergoing a brachioplasty, you will need to meet with one of our surgeons. The surgeon will be able to assess whether or not you are a suitable candidate for brachioplasty and which method is the best suited for you.

Are you interested in having brachioplasty? Contact us today to find out more information or to book a consultation.

Have you been going to the gym but you are still unsatisfied with the appearance of your arms? Following a healthy diet but still can’t get rid of that stubborn fat? You may wish to consider undergoing arm liposuction.

What does arm liposuction involve?

Arm liposuction is a cosmetic surgical procedure which targets the excess fat which is on the lower side of the upper arm. This area is often immune to lifestyle changes such as increased exercise and diet changes.

Arm liposuction varies from procedures such as an arm lift. While arm liposuction targets excess fat, an arm lift will target excess skin, which generally occurs as a result of ageing or weight loss.

Am I a good candidate for arm liposuction?

To be suitable for arm liposuction, you will be unhappy with the aesthetic appearance of your arms due to the excess pockets of weight.

You may have already resorted to non-surgical options, such as trying to lose weight through changes to your exercise regime and diet.

You will have to be at least 18 years old to undergo arm liposuction, and have realistic expectations about what the procedure will achieve.

Prior to undergoing arm liposuction, you will need to have a consultation with one of our surgeons. They will be able to assess your arms and see if you are suitable for the procedure, or whether you are more suited for another procedure, such as an arm lift.

If you have a large amount of excess fat or have poor skin elasticity, you may end up with loose skin following the liposuction. Your surgeon may recommend for you to also have an arm lift.

What happens during an arm liposuction procedure?

An arm liposuction is generally performed under a local anaesthetic. This means you will be awake during the procedure, however, you will not be able to feel any pain or discomfort. However, some people do not wish to be awake during surgical procedures. In these cases, you may wish to be given a general anaesthetic. At Centre for Surgery, this is known as TIVA anaesthesia.

Arm liposuction is performed with a method known as PAL lipo or SAFElipo.

The procedure will involve the surgeon making small incisions – one near the elbow, and one near the armpit. This will ensure that scarring is minimal and is as discreet as possible.

The surgeon will then be able to insert a small, thin cannula. Using a back and forth motion, the surgeon is able to use the cannula to break up and remove the excess fat. Blood vessels, nerves and skin will remain completely intact and will not be damaged.

What will the recovery period be like?

Following arm liposuction, you can expect to feel some minor pain and discomfort, as well as see some swelling. You may wish to take pain medication to help alleviate any symptoms.

You will need to wear a compression garment over the arm. This will help to avoid fluid build-up and reduce swelling. Your surgeon will advise how long you will need to wear the compression garment for. You will generally have to wear the compression garment for two weeks.

You will have to avoid undertaking any strenuous physical activity for at least two weeks.

You may have to take a few days off work in order to recover.

Are you interested in arm liposuction, or liposuction to a different area of the body? This is a procedure that Centre for Surgery currently offers. Contact us today to find out more or call us to book a consultation.

Are you considering having a mummy makeover? This is often a popular procedure for women who have had children and are now unsatisfied with their post-baby body.

Following pregnancy and childbirth, a woman’s body can often appear very different. This can be most noticeable in the breasts, the abdomen and in the vagina area.

Some women will be able to improve the appearance of their body through exercise and a healthy diet. However, no amount of diet and exercise can shift excess skin or give the body a much-needed lift. That’s when a mummy makeover comes in.

What procedures are included in a mummy makeover?

The exact procedures included in a mummy makeover will vary from each person. However, the procedures will generally include at least two of the following:

• Breast augmentation
• Breast lift
• Tummy tuck
• Labiaplasty

These procedures help to improve the size and position of the breasts, remove excess skin from the abdomen and alter the aesthetic appearance of the labia.

Prior to undergoing a mummy makeover, you will be required to attend a consultation with a surgeon. They will be able to assess your body as well as your wants and needs and will be able to determine whether you are a suitable candidate for the procedure and exactly which procedures you should undergo.

What do I need to know before having a mummy makeover?

We understand that choosing to undergo cosmetic surgery is a big decision which can sometimes be nerve-wracking or overwhelming. To help with any pre-op nerves, it can help to know what exactly to expect, so you can be prepared before starting your surgical journey.

1. Get an idea of what procedures you wish to have

Do you really want to have multiple surgeries, or are you more interested in just a singular procedure? Make sure you do your research and find out everything there is to know about the procedures which you are wishing to undertake.

2. Are you prepared for the recovery?

A mummy makeover is a big procedure. While the surgery itself is a big thing you will need to consider, the recovery period is just as important. You will need to ensure you will be able to get enough time off work to fully recover, particularly if your surgeries are being performed on separate days.

You will also need to think about childcare. Many procedures will require you to avoid any heavy lifting for several weeks – which includes lifting your children. If necessary, you may need to arrange for childcare or to have someone at your house to help assist with your children.

3. Have you finished having children?

Before you decide to undergo a mummy makeover, you will need to be sure about one major decision – will you be having any more children? Pregnancy and childbirth can change the appearance of your body, and therefore alter the results of any cosmetic surgery you have previously had. You may find you will need to undergo procedures again if you choose to have children after having surgery. As the procedures involved in a mummy makeover are considered large procedures, we recommend waiting until you have finished having children before undergoing a mummy makeover.

4. How long has it been since you had your last child?

You may be in a rush to achieve your pre-baby body. However, you will need to give your body a chance to heal and let itself repair before undergoing any cosmetic surgery. You may find that you are happier with your body in a few months time, or wish to undergo different procedures instead.

Generally, you will need to wait at least six months after the birth of your last child before undergoing a mummy makeover. During your consultation, your surgeon will be able to assess your body and recommend whether or not you will have to wait longer before undergoing surgery.

5. Are you at your ideal weight?

Before undergoing a mummy makeover, we recommend that you lose any weight that you need to so you are as close as possible to your ideal weight. You will need to also ensure you will be able to maintain this weight, rather than constantly having weight which is fluctuating.

It is important to understand that a tummy tuck is not considered a weight loss surgery. Instead, a tummy tuck will remove any excess skin which you have on your abdomen. If necessary, liposuction can be undertaken to remove any excess fat. However, before undergoing a mummy tuck, you will need to ensure your BMI is 30 or below. If your BMI is too high, it may be considered too unsafe to go ahead with the procedure.

6. Do you have realistic expectations?

One of the criteria for being a suitable candidate for any cosmetic surgery is having realistic expectations. Do you know what can actually be achieved with the procedures you are choosing to undertake? If you have unrealistic expectations, you are guaranteed to be disappointed with the results after surgery. To help manage expectations, make sure to do your research about each of the procedures. Find out what it is physically possible for the surgeons to achieve. You may wish to ask your surgeon for before and after photographs during your consultation in order to see what results you can expect.

7. Are you prepared for scarring?

While there will be no noticeable scarring with a labiaplasty, and minimal scarring as a result of breast augmentation, there will be a noticeable scar as a result of a tummy tuck. Having noticeable scars can often be offputting for people who are considering undergoing cosmetic surgery.

Before you decide which surgeon to go with, make sure you check their qualifications and certifications, to make sure they are the best person to undertake your procedure. Ask to see their before and after photographs, as this will allow you to get an idea of the type of scar your surgeon will leave. Your surgeon may also give you tips on how best to care for your scar post-surgery. This will help to ensure the wound does not get infected and the scar is as minimally noticeable as possible.

Are you interested in a mummy makeover, or any one of our body contouring procedures? Contact Centre for Surgery today to find out more information or to book a consultation. 

Are you thinking about undergoing a tummy tuck? Otherwise known as an abdominoplasty, a tummy tuck is a cosmetic surgery procedure which removes excess skin from the abdomen. Excess skin is a common occurrence after a large weight loss or pregnancy. A tummy tuck will leave you with a firmer, tighter abdomen.

As this is a fairly invasive surgical procedure, we understand that it is not a small decision to make. You may feel that you are not ready to commit to such a big surgical procedure.

However, knowing all your surgical options, being able to prepare for surgery and knowing what to expect after the procedure can help you to have a smooth surgical journey.

So how can you have the best tummy tuck?

1. Know your surgical options

There is actually more than one method for performing a tummy tuck.

Prior to undergoing any procedure, you will have a consultation with one of the surgeons, who will be able to assess your body and determine which surgical method you should undergo. Tummy tuck methods are:

• Classic tummy tuck: otherwise referred to as a full tummy tuck, a classic tummy tuck involves an incision which runs from hip to hip. This allows the surgeon to remove as much excess fat as possible, which can be located both above and below the belly button. This is suitable for those who have a large amount of excess skin which they are wishing to remove.
• Mini tummy tuck: this is the smaller version of the classic tummy tuck. A mini tummy tuck involves an incision that goes from each thigh, rather than from each hip. This procedure will remove excess skin that is below the belly button. Those who have a small bulge, a smaller amount of excess skin and wish to have a smaller scar will be suitable for a mini tummy tuck.
• Extended tummy tuck: those who are wishing to remove excess skin along the abdomen, as well as the hips and flanks, may be interested in an extended tummy tuck. This procedure will involve a longer scar than the classic tummy tuck. An extended tummy tuck is popular with those who have undergone a large weight loss or who have had multiple pregnancies.

If you have a large amount of excess skin on your abdomen, flanks and back, you may be interested in a belt lipectomy, otherwise referred to as a lower body lift.

2. Are you a good candidate?

While you may be interested in undertaking a plastic surgery procedure, you may find you are actually an unsuitable candidate. To find out whether or not you are eligible for surgery, you will generally need to attend a consultation with a surgeon. They will be able to assess your body, look at your medical history and assess what your desired outcome is.

To be a suitable candidate, you will need to:

• Have excess skin on the abdomen which you are wishing to remove
• Have stretched abdominal muscles
• Be at a stable weight
• Be a non-smoker, or be able to stop smoking prior to and after the procedure
• Have realistic expectations about what a tummy tuck can achieve

3. Find the best plastic surgeon

Before undergoing any plastic surgery procedure, it is a good idea to do some research on the clinic you are going to attend, as well as the surgeon who is going to perform your tummy tuck. For the best results, you are going to want to go to a surgeon who is registered with the GMC (for UK surgeons) and who is experienced in performing tummy tucks. You may find this information is available online, however, you should feel comfortable asking this during a consultation.

During the consultation, you may also wish to see before and after photographs. This will show the surgeon is experienced and will give you a realistic expectation about what can be achieved after the surgery. This is particularly important for a tummy tuck, as each surgeon will produce a different looking scar.

4. Prepare for scarring

Cosmetic surgeons will go out of their way to ensure that scars are as aesthetically pleasing and discreet as possible. However, this is one of the few procedures which will result in a large noticeable scar running across the abdomen. Having a big scar can often be an offputting thought and can cause some people to chose not to undergo a tummy tuck.

The incision will often be performed below the bikini line, so it will be as discreet as possible. Your surgeon will also be able to give you tips on how to care for the wound, so you can avoid infection or other complications which may make the scar look worse. You may also be advised of steps you can take once the wound has healed to help make the scar look less noticeable.

Remember that the scar will look worse straight after surgery. During your recovery period, the scar may look particularly large and red. However, with time the scar will fade in both size and colour and will become less noticeable.

5. Know what to do during the recovery period

You don’t need to just know what will happen during your surgery, you need to prepare for what will happen after the surgery as well.

You will experience some level of pain and discomfort following the procedure, particularly in the first few days following the procedure. You may wish to take pain medication to help alleviate any symptoms.

You will have to ensure you avoid any strenuous physical exercise in order to avoid sustaining any injuries or damaging the wound. You will need to avoid all exercise for four to six weeks.

You may be able to notice some differences after your surgery, however, it will take several months for swelling to completely go down and for the final results to be apparent.

Are you interested in undergoing a tummy tuck? This is a procedure Centre for Surgery currently offers. Contact us today to find out more or to book a consultation.