Do you have small breasts?

Do you experience feelings of self-consciousness, embarrassment or shyness due to breast size?  Do you experience difficulty in buying clothing due to imbalance in body proportions – wanting to be not too big but have “something?”

These are the complaints most commonly expressed by women requiring breast augmentation.

Breast augmentation or as it may be called “breast enlargement” is the enhancement of breast size by the placement of an implant.  The operation continues to be refined and is now a common procedure offering choices in implant size, shape, composition and placement.  All modern implants have a silicone outer shell but have various surface textures, fillings, sizes and shapes.

Many women have benefited from this procedure.  The most common request is from women who either never really developed what they considered enough breast, or women who have had children, then especially after breast-feeding, found their breasts empty and maybe sagging and “wanted them back again.”

Changing your breasts will not by itself change you.  If it gives you a higher self-esteem, or more self-confidence, or makes you just feel better about yourself then you will have achieved a significant benefit.

What do you do in a first visit?

Your individual concerns are discussed, so that your surgical choices can be fully explained including the risks, limitations and potential complications.  Pre-operative assessment is undertaken and the proposed surgery is explained.  After you have been fully informed of all aspects of the procedure including all expenses, you are encouraged, after having assimilated a large amount of information too re-present, if appropriate with your partner, and any aspect can be re-discussed, until you feel fully informed and comfortable to proceed.

How big will I be?

The size of the augmentation is dependent on your wishes, your breast shape and size and what is safe. At the consultation you will be given sizing implants to put in your bra to determine approximately what you would like.  Your chest measurements and breast envelope are measured and from this we can determine a range of appropriate sizes.  The final decision on size naturally rests with the patient and this process with guidance usually results in an appropriate outcome.

How is the procedure performed?

Once the important decisions have been made, surgery is booked.  The procedure usually takes about 1½ hours. On admission to the operating suite, the nurse will check all of your details and give you a quick pre-op assessment. The Anaesthetist will also examine you prior to the procedure and your pre-op photos are taken and you are marked out for the surgery. On completion of the surgery you will be in recovery for at least an hour until you are properly awake and ready to go home. You must have a Carer who will help look after you. You will also have an appointment for your first post-op check the next day.

An antibiotic is given to even further reduce the possibility of capsular contraction, which may be associated with infection.  You will experience some post-operative pain naturally but this is managed with oral medication.  Placing the implant under the muscle may have a slightly more difficult recovery due to the reaction of the muscle which may spasm and cramp from time to time.  An anti-spasmodic medication is usually given in this case.  There are times when placement either in front or behind the muscle is appropriate and this needs to be discussed before the procedure.

After the procedure

Naturally there will some post-op pain and a feeling of ‘tightness’ for a few days after the procedure. Oral medication is usually all that is required. Light activities and showering recommence the day after surgery and normally you can resume driving a car after a few days. You should avoid vigorous activity such as gym or cardio workouts or jogging or running for about six weeks.

What sort of scarring can I expect?

Depending on your choice and surgical necessity, an incision is made either around the lower part of the nipple, beneath the breast (usually in a skin crease) or under the arm.  There are advantages and disadvantages with all these options and they need to be discussed properly beforehand. Scarring varies considerably between individuals and ranges from almost invisible to being raised and itchy or reddened.  Most women are between these two extremes and scars will continue to improve for up to 12–18 months. To minimize scarring we use buried and dissolving sutures and where necessary special supportive garments and taping of the suture lines. The average scar is around 5cm.

How long does it take to recover?

Breast augmentation is usually performed as a day procedure.  You will be encouraged to walk a little from day one. You can shower normally on the first post-op day. Everyone feels better after a shower and washing your hair. Gentle every day activities, including driving a car can usually be resumed after a few days, as long as they don’t cause discomfort.   Any sporting activities that could stretch the incisions and cause a wider scar are to be avoided for six weeks.  All sutures used are buried and dissolving but to minimize scarring, the suture lines are supported with tape and a bra or supportive garment is best worn for the following six weeks.  The intention is from day one to start commencing a healthier active lifestyle, but to get the best healing you do need to look after yourself and not rush into anything.

Some Common Questions

Smooth, textured, or polyurethane implants?

This really relates to the type of surface on the shell of the implant and the effect if any on capsular contraction. There has been much debate about smooth or textured implants and whether or not there is any difference in capsular contraction rates. In extensive studies there does not seem to be any significant difference with either of these. The polyurethane implants do have substantial data to show a marked reduction in contracture rates. These are sometimes referred to as “furry” or “Brazilian” implants. All types are available in our practice and this is one issue which should be discussed.

In Front or Behind?

This concerns the placement of the implants and whether they should go “in front of the muscle” or “behind the muscle”. The “muscle” is the pectoralis or “chest muscle”. The natural position of the breast is in front of the muscle but in some very slim people putting the implant behind the muscle is preferred because it helps to disguise the appearance of the implant. There is also a technique called “Dual Plane” which can have some advantages in certain circumstances. Each technique has its own advantages and potential disadvantages and needs to be discussed.

What should I tell my partner?

We strongly recommend your partner to be part of the consultation, and whilst it is totally your choice we believe it important they know what is going on.  It must however be strongly emphasized that no surgery is ever performed at the request of the partner, as this is purely your personal decision.  However we have found that invariably the partner has been highly supportive and encouraging, as they too have concerns and a supportive home environment makes the process a little easier.

What should I do if I want to have more children?

If you definitely intend having more children soon we would certainly advise you defer surgery until you have completed your family.  It is not that the surgery would be dangerous but that everything would stretch and you could lose the benefits of the procedure.  Breast augmentation should not affect breast-feeding.

Does it hurt?

You are likely to be uncomfortable for several days.  Any post-operative pain is usually easily controlled with medication and this is also organized for when you go home.

Are there any risks?

As with any surgical procedure there are risks, limitations and potential complications. Any surgery carries risks, which include infection and post-operative blood clots.

The most troublesome complication of breast augmentation is capsular contraction which affects around five to ten per cent of patients. All patients form a capsule around their implants. Most commonly it is of a soft, silky texture. Sometimes this capsule becomes thickened and may contract, causing the implant to feel hard and uncomfortable. This may also cause the implants to become more obvious. Secondary surgery may be required to manage this problem.

Implant rupture can occur and the incidence is usually quoted as being approximately 10% at 10 years post operatively.  Implant rupture requires corrective surgery.

Sometimes there may be rippling with implants. Infection is very uncommon but if it does occur then it can be quite serious and may require the implants to be removed. They can be replaced after about three months. Displacement downwards or toward the armpit is possible but uncommon and may require secondary surgery. Nipple sensitivity may be altered or they may become completely numb. This could be a temporary problem but sometimes this is a permanent change. Numbness may also be seen in the lower portion of the breast.

Most of us are not symmetrical, that is we are different from left to right. This occurs with breasts as well and so asymmetry may be noted after the surgery. If there is a large asymmetry noted before surgery then this might be corrected by using different sizes of implants.

Anaesthetic may cause nausea and/or vomiting so if you have had this problem with anaesthesia in the past then make sure you let us know to properly manage this, chest problems and rarely death may occur as a risk of operation.

A very important part of your consultation is a detailed, full explanation of these potential complications.  As with any procedure you need to be as fully informed as possible so that you can make an informed decision.

Will I have to wear special garments?

Usually a supportive bra without under wire is recommended. You will need to wear it for 6 weeks to encourage a nice shape to the breasts.  We will supply a post-op support bra for you. The suture lines are supported with tape usually for 6 weeks but these are water resistant and will not affect your ability to shower.

Dr John Flynn
Cosmetic Surgeon
Cosmetic Image Clinics
70 Mary St
Brisbane Qld
0730034000
www.cosmeticimageclinics.com.au

Chemical Peels will improve cellular renewal and enhance the exfoliation process of the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin.

What are some of the most common benefits of a chemical peel?

A chemical peel can restore a more youthful appearance to wrinkled, unevenly pigmented, sun-damaged, or blotchy skin. However, a peel cannot reverse the ageing process or completely remove deep scars. Wrinkled skin that is loose and sagging may also require a face-lift, laser resurfacing treatment, radio-frequency fractional resurfacing such as the Fractora, or a combination of procedures for best results.

How is a chemical peel performed?

All chemical peels involve applying a chemical solution to remove the outer layers of skin so that a smoother, more evenly pigmented, glowing layer of skin can appear. There are a few basic categories of chemical peels (Alpha Hydroxy Peels, Beta Hydroxy peels including the Jessner’s Peel, Retinoic Acid peels, Trichloroacetic Acids and Phenol Peels).  Each type works differently and produces different results.  Our clinician may choose from the following types of chemical peel however our preference now is to replace the Phenol peel with alternatives such as the Fractora fractional resurfacing radiofrequency machine by Invasix. Our clinician or therapist will tailor the treatment to the needs of the patient’s skin. In general, the stronger the chemical, the deeper the peel; thus, the more impressive the results will be. However, the deeper the peel, the more discomfort the patient is likely to experience and the longer the recovery time will be.

Light peels: Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA’s) or “lunch hour” peels are the mildest of the chemical peels. These peels include glycolic, lactic and fruit acid peels (AHA or Alpha Hydroxy Acids) or Salicylic Acid (BHA or Beta Hydroxy Acid) and Jessner’s Peel. They burn off only the outer layers of the skin (epidermis) to smooth out fine wrinkles and/or rough, dry skin. AHA and BHA peels may also be used to improve the texture of sun-damaged skin, balance out skin pigmentation and diminish some types of acne scars. Salicylic Peels tend to be better suited for skins prone to acne and Lactic acid peels better for sun-damaged skin. The Jessner’s peel is ideally suited to treat pigmentation or melasma and chloasma. These peels are often repeated several times over a short period to achieve the desired results.

The application of AHA, BHA, or Jessner’s peels is relatively fast and simple. No sedation or anaesthesia is required, since the patient only experiences a slight stinging when the solution is applied. The treatment usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes, but the clinician may vary the concentration of the chemical solution or the length of time of the treatment.

The clinician will begin by thoroughly cleansing the area to be treated. Next, he/she will apply the chemical peel solution, wait up to 15 minutes and then remove it if required. After the procedure, no ointments or salves will be necessary to cover the treated area. Monthly or bi-weekly repetition is common. Make-up can be applied immediately after the treatment and many people go straight back to work after the treatment.

Medium peels: Trichloroacetic Acids (TCA): A TCA solution is used for medium depth peels. This peel is generally used to treat skin with moderate sun damage, surface wrinkles and/or uneven tone or pigment abnormalities. Full-face TCA peels take approximately 2 to 15 minutes.

Before applying the chemical solution, the clinician will thoroughly cleanse the area to be treated.  TCA peels often do not require anaesthesia because the solution itself has a numbing effect on the skin. At first the patient may feel a warm or burning sensation followed by stinging. Sometimes two or more TCA peel treatments are necessary to achieve the desired results, usually at intervals over one to two months. The TCA peel can be used in varying concentrations, the higher concentrations may require oral or liquid anaesthesia medication.

Deep peels: Phenol Acid:  Phenol acid is the strongest chemical peel solution and it is used for the deepest possible chemical peel. Phenol peels are used to treat skin with coarse wrinkles and blotchiness. They may also be effectively used to treat patients with pre-cancerous growths.

Phenol peels should be used with caution because they can cause permanent lightening of the skin and they have an increased risk of scarring due to the depth of the peel. For this reason, Phenol peels are not performed generally in Cosmetic Image Clinics.

Common Questions relating to Peels

How long does it take?

AHA and BHA peels (glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid and Jessner’s Peel) and TCA peels for the full face generally take 10 – 15 minutes.

Where will the procedure be performed?

They are all performed in Cosmetic Image Clinics. If performed in conjunction with another procedure, such as a facelift, the chemical peel may be performed in the hospital.

How much pain is there?

During the procedure, most people feel a brief burning sensation, followed by a feeling of numbness or stinging. The sensation will vary depending on the type of peel as well as the possibility of pain medications in the case of deep peels. The AHA and TCA peels are uncomfortable only during treatment.

The recovery period is different for each type of peel.

Light peels: Alpha Hydroxy Acids (or AHAs such as glycolic acid, lactic, malic) peels and Beta Hydroxy Acids (or BHA’s such as salicylic acid and Jessner’s Peel) generally cause some flaking, redness and dryness, or skin irritation. These side effects diminish over time. Once the body heals itself naturally, the outer layer of skin will fall away. Patients are usually able to engage in normal activities straight away after a light chemical peel.

Medium peels: Trichloroacetic acids (TCA) peels may cause significant redness and exfoliation depending on the potency of the chemical solution that was used. The exfoliation process will subside within a week. There is no need to take time off work to have this peel.

Deep peels:  After a deep peel, the physician may prescribe a mild pain medication to relieve any discomfort. If a waterproof adhesive is applied to the treated area, it will be removed in 1-2 days, and you’ll be instructed to cover the area with antiseptic powder several times a day. A scab will form and, within 7-10 days, new skin will form. While the skin will be red at first, the colour will lighten over a few weeks to a few months.

Following any peel, it is critically important that the skin be protected from the sun. After the procedure, the clinician may recommend that the patient stop smoking for at least a week. Smoking decreases circulation of the blood in the skin, which can slow your recovery.

How much does the procedure cost?

Alpha Hydroxy, Beta Hydropxy peels and Jessner’s peels cost approximately $90 for each treatment. Patients will require a series of treatments to achieve the desired results. The clinician will discuss the number of treatments that you will require.

TCA peels may cost between $90 to $500 for the series of peels.

Note:  Cosmetic Image Clinics does not offer any Phenol Peels because of the invasive nature of the peel.  At Cosmetic Image Clinics, we prefer using Fractora Radiofrequency Resurfacing (by Invasix) to achieve a controlled rejuvenation which can provide a lighter or deeper peel, according to the energy settings.

I occasionally like to do an half ampule to give a lovely, subtle and natural look to the lip, which is cost effective for people on a budget. (The cost is $400).

A small amount is injected into the lip line border and the Cupid’s bow is enhanced with a subtle ‘micropearl’ drop into the top of the central columns of the Cupid’s bow.  The central portion of the bottom lip is often augmented to give a slightly more voluminous look. Often this smaller amount requires no lip or dental block (some numbing cream beforehand is used) and the swelling is usually  minimal with a half ampule.  Indeed, people often can get this done at the end of the working day and be back at work the next morning.

Sometimes people come in showing us photos of movie stars or models whose lips they admire.  To be perfectly honest, it is not really possible to dramatically change the shape of a lip with filler. You can modify the shape of your lip and enhance certain features.  You can lift up the corners and add volume, increase the Cupid’s bow and make the lip border more distinct and increase the volume of the body of the lip, however you cannot truly drastically alter the shape.

A lot of people don’t have their lips injected because they fear it’s going to be very painful. I often give a lip block (sometimes known as a dental block) and infiltrate a small amount of local anaesthetic just on the inside of the gum line which numbs the lips generally very well. Also, some numbing gel can be placed on the gum beforehand so the needle prick is less uncomfortable. (I also like to use a vibrating tool on the chin or cheek to minimise the discomfort as well).

Sometimes you can feel a little bit of discomfort in the corners of the mouth or in the centre of the lip, however, overall usually the lip feels very numb.

The next thing that people often say when they come in for the consultation is that they don’t want to have “fish lips” or “trout pout”.  This happens when too much filler is injected into the lip border, especially in younger people who have distinct and already full lip borders.

In more mature people, the lip shrinks considerably as we age and the lip line border can become softer and more poorly defined, especially in smokers, wind instrument players, whistlers or even people who unconsciously store tension in their lip.

Injecting into the lip border in these circumstances really adds volume and creates a more youthful looking lip.  However one should never overdo this.  It is best to inject the body of the lip more, rather than infiltrate too much in the lip border.

The ratio of the top lip to the bottom lip is said ideally to be 1: 1.6.  This means, the bottom lip should be approximately 50% bigger than the top lip.

Asiatic people have a tendency to admire lips where the top and bottom lip are in equal proportion.  Australians have a tendency to admire a more voluptuous bottom lip compared to the top lip.

Not only is the lip body important, the lip corners are, as well.

As we mature, our lips turn down in the mouth somewhat, so we can look stern, serious or glum.  Some filler injected into the corners of the mouth can elevate the corners and give a playful subtle smile to the mouth which can significantly change the overall expression in the face.

Also, above the lip is important as well.  The vertical lines in the upper lip in a mature aged person are often called the ‘barcode’ to a woman’s age.  These occur when people have smoked or they are chronic pursers of their lip. Some people just carry more tension in their lips and purse them more often and it’s these people who tend to have more vertical lip lines.  These can be softened with filler.  It’s impossible to make them go away altogether, however you can improve them.

Permanent fillers can be used in the lip; however there is an old cosmetic adage saying, “permanent fillers, permanent problems”.  I have used a permanent filler in the past, however had one patient that ended up with a chronic red and inflamed area due to an immune reaction to the filler.  It’s very difficult to remove permanent fillers and my inclination is not to use them.  However the incidence of problems are really low and I know many reputable injectors and surgeons who use permanent fillers . It is my personal choice not to. There are however surgeons in our practice who use permanent fillers if you would like them.

Whichever way you go, it is important to see someone who has had lots of experience in injecting lips. There is an artistry to it and the secret to success is making them look natural.  There is nothing worse than a person’s lips entering the room before they do.

The good news though is, if you don’t like your lips, you can always use an injection to remove or dissolve the hyaluronic acid dermal filler called hyaluronidase.. This does cause swelling though and potentially bruising like any injection to the lip.  Remember, though, it takes time for the swelling to settle and also it takes some time to get ‘used to’ the new look.  It is often like a new hairstyle. When you first get it, you want to go home and wash it out.  It is the same with lips, it takes a while to get used to the new look.  Initally the swelling is difficult to deal with, then people tend to get used to the swelling and then miss it when it disappears. A little swelling even persists for up to two weeks and when that disappears, people have often already forgotten how their lips used to look and feel as if they cannot even see the difference after the lip filler. The self image adjusts very quickly to the new look and memory is short of how we used to look. That is one of the reasons why it is very important to take a photo prior to the procedure.  We will do that in the clinic however it is a good idea for you to take one , even on your mobile phone, prior to coming in.

Another new technique I am using more often is the new needlefree microcannula. This is a very small blunt cannula or tube which is gently inserted into the lip and has a lower incidence of discomfort, swelling and bruising. It is $20 more to purchase the cannula however for many it is money well spent.

Excessive sweating causes social embarrassment due to the sweat marks which are evident on their clothes.  Often people find they can only wear certain coloured clothing because of the ‘tide marks’ of sweat.  Also for some, a malodour associated with perspiration is problematic. Others report an acute problem when they are publicly speaking or when they are under stress.

It is always prudent to undergo a thyroid function blood test to ensure that the thyroid hormone is not overactive as this can cause excessive sweating.  Many people try numerous types of anti-perspirants without success. Also some consider undergoing an operation called a ‘Lateral Sympathectomy’ which is a surgical laparoscopic procedure that severs some of the nerves running along the spine which control the sweating reflex.  Many people find this option rather intimidating and prefer to use botulinum therapy (Botox or Dysport) to minimize their sweating.

Excessive sweating can occur under the arms, on the hands, on the forehead and on the feet.  The simplest area to treat with botulinum therapy is the under-arms.  The Allergan (the company that produces Botox) recommended standard dose for this area is 100 units. Less can be used and some elect to have a half dose, however it is not as strong and the anti-perspirant affect does not last quite as long. The average duration of treatment is approximately seven months.  It takes three to five days for the Botulinum therapy to begin to work, and two weeks before it has fully kicked in.  Generally people notice hardly any sweating whatsoever for the first couple of months after treatment however thereafter some mild perspiration is noted. This is generally less than what an average person would experience with respect to sweating under the arms.

Usually people elect to have numbing cream applied to their under-arms prior to their Botulinum therapy injections.  This is generally applied approximately half an hour prior to the procedure.  Often a ‘starch iodine’ test is used prior to the injections to assess where the sweat glands are concentrated.

Side effects from the treatment of hyperhidrosis under the arms are usually mild.  There are some raised mosquito bite marks for approximately an hour after treatment.  Also mild bruising is often encountered at the injection site.  A very rare side effect is muscular weakness however the muscles are very deep in relation to the under-arm area and this is highly unusual.  Allergies to Botulinum therapy are rare.  There are also rare occurrences of antibodies or immunity developing to Botulinum therapy but this unusual phenomenon and usually only occurs when doses of more than 100 units are used.

There is no aftercare required for treatment of excessive sweating under the arms.  It is recommended antiperspirant is avoided for 24 hours prior to treatment and for 24 hours after.

Botulinum therapy is a simple and effective treatment for excessive sweating or hyperhidrosis and can improve affected people’s quality of life.

These natural growth factors are injected into your scalp after an application of numbing cream, using a fine ‘needle free’ cannula which irrigates your scalp with your own plasma to stimulate and thicken your own hair. The procedure takes about an hour.

Our Cosmetic Doctor has brought this latest procedure for restoring hair loss in men and women from Dubai to Cosmetic Image Clinics in Brisbane and provides an artistic approach to creating a natural result using local anaesthetic only.

This method replaces hair follicle units one by one to avoid the clumpy, artificial hair transplant look and is virtually pain-free. The procedure is done as a day case in our clinic in Mary St, Brisbane. You can relax and watch a movie while your hair is being restored.

Of course, age is a process that involves much more than our appearance. Staying young and vibrant also requires that you make an effort to keep fit, eat healthy and maintain your energy and sense of fun. Learn new things, accept new challenges and keep a balance in life… spend time doing the things you enjoy.

As for the way we look…well yes, that’s important too but it’s not simply a matter of vanity. I honestly believe that making the time and effort to present yourself well and looking fresh isn’t so much about vanity as it is about feeling confident and feeling good about yourself…and this really helps to keep that upper edge in the workplace.

Age gracefully…but not without a fight…. take a stand!! :)
I see first hand the results that a little bit of cosmetic touchup can achieve….not just to freshen a person’s look but even more importantly to lift their self esteem, their spirit and their aura of vibrancy. If you feel younger than you look… then look as young as you feel.

Dr Ingrid Tall

Essentially the injections work by relaxing and partially immobilizing muscle in the area where it’s injected. It works particularly well in areas where we develop, so called, “character lines” …that is, crow’s feet, frown lines and forehead lines. Our levels of collagen diminish as part of the aging process and the areas I mentioned age even more quickly because repeated muscle movement and the continual creasing and folding of the skin accelerates the breakdown of collagen further. By the way I often use dermal fillers and or collagen boosting injections in conjunction with the muscle relaxing botulinum for a more complete (whole face) rejuvenation treatment.

It’s also worth considering that there’s a valid argument for getting botulinum injections relatively early. Breaking the cycle of repetitive muscle movement early has a preventative value, since relaxing the muscles will actually inhibit the formation of “character lines” and stave off the progression of fine lines becoming deeply etched lines.

Another effect of botulinum that’s been in the news lately is that botulinum therapy can actually make you feel better and in fact there’s a  theory currently in research, that it can be used to treat depression.

People often say they feel better after receiving injections and it was generally assumed that this was simply a consequence of looking fresher and younger which in turn gives your spirits and confidence a lift. However, some researchers are hypothesizing (and there is evidence to support their view) that because we physically relax the muscle mechanics that we use to frown and scowl we are also reducing the underlying emotions of stress and anxiety that we are conditioned to associate with those facial expressions. Go ahead…just try frowning ….and you do feel kind of stressed …it may well be that if you’re frowning your brain “tells” you that you’re stressed! …if that’s true ii should also follow that if we smile more we’ll be happier :)

Here’s a link to a TV story on botulinum use to treat depression.

http://au.tv.yahoo.com/sunrise/video/play/-/8845130/botox-treats-depression/

While we’re on the wonders of botulinum, some of you may not realize that it is also a very effective (and clinically proven) treatment for hyperhidrosis (the clinical term for excess sweating). Unless you’re someone that suffers from problem you probably don’t appreciate what a profound negative impact sweating can have on your social and professional life.  The treatment is simple and consists of a number of tiny injections into the skin around the problem area (most commonly the armpit). This blocks the action of the nerves that control the sweat glands responsible for producing perspiration.

The treatment takes about an hour (by the way we’re currently offering $100 off sweating treatments if you book this week and mention this blog)  Call 3003 4000 now for an appointment.

BTW in case you wondering why I use the term botulinum instead of just calling it Bot – x like everyone else…here’s the story.

Some confusion exists regarding the various terms used for injections of botulinum toxin. Most people commonly refer to the product as
Bot – x, which is actually a product trademarked by Allergan Pharmaceuticals. However because it is a Schedule 4  substance, in other words, only available by prescription by a qualified medical practitioner, the TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration)  prohibit the use of the product name in anything that they deem to be an advertisement. Their definition of advertisement is very broad and therefore even in an article like this, which is intended to provide useful information ( and some light reading!) I am obliged to use a generic term such as botulinum therapy (the active ingredient of this product is botulinum toxin type A).

Bye for now. Let me know if you have any questions

Dr Ingrid
wrinkleinjections.net.au

For most people who are considering lip enhancement, the main concern is a result which is commonly referred to as the “trout pout”. This happens in cases where the filler is used excessively, is badly placed, or both. The reality is that in the hands of an experienced practitioner, most people would never guess you’ve had any treatment at all.  In fact, the primary objective of the treatment is to reshape the lips while retaining a totally natural look.

For example, lips can look unnatural because too much filler is placed in the lip line border. This depends on the individual’s requirements.  Younger people rarely need enhancement to the line border, however, mature age people can benefit from replacing the shrunken lip line border which causes vertical lip lines and lipstick bleed.

Although many patients are concerned that their lips will be too big, in practice this is rarely the case. Patients often come in saying they don’t want to look like Angelina Jolie …however it would require about three vials of filler to achieve a similar size. Most treatments use 1 vial !

Most people are surprised to learn that filler does not usually significantly change the shape of the lips. Rather, it enhances the volume and voluptuousness of the lips… although it  can help to elevate the corners of the mouth to create a playful smile effect which can give one a slightly happier and relaxed  look rather than having the “down in the mouth”, unhappy look that sometimes comes with age and detracts from your aura of vibrancy.

It’s worth noting that the lips are red because they have so many blood vessels. This naturally increases the risk of bruising when injecting lips as compared to other areas of the face. Bruising often lasts for 5 days or so and can be minimized with darker lipsticks.
A little residual swelling can persist for up to two weeks. Interestingly, it is quite common for people to initially be unsettled by the swelling and even to temporarily regret their decision to have their lips injected.  Then, within a day or two, people “fall in love” with the swelling and increased volume and become disappointed when the swelling disappears.

It’s not unusual for it to take some time to adjust your self image to the new look. It’s like  getting your haircut at the hairdressers …often you want to go home and shampoo and blow dry it yourself …because it takes some time to adjust to the new look.
Of course, you can always top up your filler and increase the volume whenever you want. You don’t have to wait the 9 months it usually takes before the filler disappears. Interestingly, the filler can last 9 months but for some it can last up to 5 years …although these cases are few and far between .

Lip enhancing treatments are a quick, easy and cost effective way of restoring a youthful aura and vibrancy to your look.

- Dr. Ingrid Tall
wrinkleinjections.com.au

While spot treatments can result in a significant improvement to a particular problem area, a more global, multi faceted approach makes a lot of sense. The Trilogy Facelift neatly packages three treatment approaches that work in synergy to address the three underlying causes of aging.

1. Reshaping. – As we age, not only does our skin become less supple but there are underlying changes that take place in the structure of the bones, fat and muscles around the face. So the foundation to restoring a more youthful appearance is to use a dermal filler that have been developed specifically to fill out and reshape sagging and hollowed areas.  In particular the areas around the cheeks, mouth, brow, under the eyes and temple hollows can benefit significantly from this reshaping approach.

2. Rejuvenation – As we age, diminishing collagen production results in a loss of elasticity and thickness of the skin which in turn leads to sagging and wrinkling. So in conjunction with a reshaping treatment, a complete treatment regime also targets lines and wrinkle with other types of product. Some products act to fill out lines and wrinkle immediately while other are intended to stimulate your own collagen production.  An increase of dermal thickness of up to three fold can be achieved over a period of time and this thickening up your skin acts to gradually restore a youthful vibrancy and suppleness to it.  This can often results in improving the smile lines on your cheeks and the crepey skin around the eyes and mouth. These “collagen rebooters” are more effective the earlier you begin treatment (ideally start in your early 40’s).

3. Relaxing – Another factor that plays a role in the aging process is muscle memory and tension in the muscles around the face. Through a process of continual repetitive of facial expressions, we develop what are sometimes referred to as ‘character’ lines. This effect is most notable around the brow and between the eyebrows. Muscle relaxants can target these areas and relax these muscles. This not only relaxes the muscles but also breaks the muscle memory cycle which would otherwise lead to a gradual deepening of the existing lines.

The Trilogy Facelift reshapes the contours of your face to return more youthful curves, rejuvenates and restores the suppleness and vibrancy of your skin, and relaxes the tension in the underlying muscular map. So now, instead of looking in the mirror and seeing someone staring back who looks 10 years older than you feel, your outer self can reflect your dynamic inner self.

- Dr. Ingrid Tall
wrinkleinjections.com.au