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November 2022

Nov 23

Neck Lift Surgery – What You Need to Know

By Face

If you’re thinking of getting neck lift surgery, there are a few things you need to know. In this article, you’ll learn about what the surgery is, what to expect, and how to make your recovery as smooth as possible.

Age and gravity wreak havoc on our skin, particularly in the area under the chin. This area is especially prone to sagging and droopiness over time, leading to a prematurely aged appearance in some of us. The surgical solution to the tug of time is neck lift surgery, often performed with a face-lift.

What Is Neck Lift Surgery?

Those who are experiencing wrinkles and sagging skin in the neck area can benefit from neck lift surgery. This is a surgical procedure that involves removing excess skin and fat from the jawline and around the neck. Typically, a neck lift is done by making an incision beneath the chin or behind each ear. The incisions are hidden and are almost indistinguishable from the natural contours of the ears and hairline.

The surgery is usually completed in under two hours. Often, a neck lift is performed in conjunction with a facelift. After the initial surgery, you will be provided with complete post-operative instructions.

With a neck lift, Dr Sophie Ricketts can tighten the platysma muscle of the neck and smooth out the sagging skin. This procedure can give a younger appearance and make your face look more defined. Indeed, a neck lift will enhance the definition of your jaw and visually separate the neck and chin.

Some patients may experience numbness and swelling in their neck area after the surgery. During the first few days, they should avoid strenuous activity. Most patients can return to work within ten days after the surgery. They should avoid activities that require exertion for four to six weeks.

Preparing for Neck Lift Surgery

It is important to choose a surgeon you trust and feel comfortable with. Dr Sophie Ricketts will ensure that all of your questions are answered and that you are fully informed as to what to expect during your procedure. During your consultation, you will be asked questions about your medical history and cosmetic goals. Dr Ricketts will discuss your goals for your operation and offer suggestions on how to achieve your desired appearance.

Recovering from Neck Lift Surgery

During your neck lift recovery, you will need to follow the advice of Dr Ricketts regarding medication and physical activity. You will also have to take specific medication, particularly antibiotics, to reduce the risk of infection. During the first week after the surgery, you may experience mild redness and swelling around the incision sites. Pain medication can be taken to reduce discomfort. If the swelling persists, a facial support garment can help to reduce the swelling. The swelling will gradually subside over the next few weeks. The stitches are generally removed approximately eight days after the surgery.

Most patients can return to their normal daily activities within a week or two. However, a full recovery can take a few months. During this time, it is best to stay away from strenuous activity and heavy lifting.

The results from a neck lift will be noticeable in a few months. During this time, you can expect to experience mild to moderate swelling and bruising. Once the swelling has subsided, you will notice a newer, more youthful contour to your neck.

Risks Involved in Neck Lift Surgery

No surgery is risk-free. When undergoing any surgical procedure, it’s important to understand the potential problems that can arise. Neck lift surgery isn’t too risky. However, there are a few things to be aware of. Infection is always a concern in surgery, which is why it’s so important to stick to your antibiotic regimen following your operation. As with any surgery, there is a risk of scarring, although Dr Ricketts will endeavour to make this minimal.

How Can We Help?

Dr Sophie Ricketts is recognised by the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons as holding a FRACS (Plast) qualification, designating her as a specialist plastic and cosmetic surgeon. She is perfectly positioned to not only guide you through all the information around your procedure but also perform your surgery with expertise and professionalism.

To learn more about the procedures performed by Dr Ricketts, please have a look here.

To schedule a consultation, please call (03) 9828 1307 or drop us a line here.

Nov 09

How to Do an At-Home Breast Exam

By Breast

As we welcome Breast Cancer Awareness Month, you should know that breast cancer is the second most diagnosed cancer in Australia, with over 20 000 new cases each year.

While breast cancer cannot be prevented, treatment outcomes are far more successful if it’s caught early. Regularly checking your breasts for any changes can make a big difference in how soon you are diagnosed.

Getting to know how your breasts usually feel is incredibly important. Familiarising yourself with how your breasts feel on a day-to-day basis will make it much easier to notice when there are any changes. Some women, for example, have very fibrous breast tissue, so they may feel some lumps and bumps every time they check their breasts. Knowing your breasts will enable you to tell what’s new and what’s normal for you.

Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer

One of the most common reasons for seeking a breast cancer diagnosis is the discovery of a lump in the breast tissue. These lumps will feel distinctly more solid than the rest of your breast tissue and may or may not be painful. Other signs to keep an eye out for include changes to the shape and size of the breast, a change in skin texture, or changes in the nipple. Therefore, it’s so important to be familiar with your breasts before doing your at-home check. ‘Orange peel’ skin or a scaly appearance could indicate something amiss, while sores, crusting, or discharge from the nipple are also signs of concern.

It is, however, important to remember that there are many possible reasons for a change in your breasts. If you notice any significant changes, you should see a doctor for a complete breast exam. If you are nervous about the exam, go with a friend, family member, or your partner.

How to Check Your Breasts At Home

To conduct an at-home breast check, you should remove all the clothing above your waist and lie down. This will help to spread your breasts out evenly, making it easier to feel for lumps. Start by using the pads of three middle fingers to feel for lumps or changes in texture, moving from your collarbone toward the bottom of your bra line, including your armpit. Make sure to alternate the two breasts and use a spiral pattern to check for any irregularities.

During the breast exam, you should use different pressure levels to feel for any lumps or thickening in the breast. A light touch will be enough to feel tissue close to the skin, while medium to firm pressure will allow you to feel deeper tissue. Make sure you do not lift your finger too high or too low off the skin.

When Should I Check My Breasts?

Because your breasts change during your menstrual period, it is recommended that you wait until just after your period to do your at-home breast exam. Your breasts can be more sensitive and feel different during your period due to hormonal fluctuations, so it is suggested that you choose a day roughly a week after the end of your period to do your exam.

According to women’s health experts, breast exams should be done at least once a month. If you notice changes in your breasts, make an appointment with your OB/GYN or primary care physician as soon as possible. These providers will order further tests, such as a mammogram or an ultrasound. However, remember that not all breast changes indicate cancer. While waiting for test results can be terrifying, try not to panic if you notice anything unusual or concerning in your breast during your self-exam.

How Can We Help?

As a specialist plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Sophie Ricketts provides many different options for breast surgery.

Even if an entire breast was removed (for example, to treat or prevent cancer, or as a result of other trauma), there are many options for performing a successful breast reconstruction. Many types of reconstructive surgery exist, and each case is unique. Generally, rebuilding the breast after mastectomy may involve breast augmentation, followed by nipple and areola re-creation where necessary. In some cases, breast reconstruction surgery also involves the other breast, so that the two breasts can be matched in shape and size.

Sometimes, the treatment plan allows to perform immediate breast reconstruction at the time of the mastectomy.  However, you may be relieved to know that delayed reconstruction, months or even years following surgery, is also a possibility.

Dr. Sophie Ricketts gets great satisfaction from helping patients to feel comfortable and confident in their bodies, especially following a traumatic event such as a cancer diagnosis and grueling treatment regime.

To find out more about breast surgery options, please see here.

To arrange a consultation with Dr. Sophie Ricketts, please have a look here.

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