Face

Chin augmentation is an increasingly popular cosmetic procedure that improves facial balance and defines the jawline. However, selecting the right surgeon for this delicate procedure is crucial to attaining optimal results. With many options available, how do you find the most suitable fit for your needs? Dr Sophie Ricketts, a skilled professional in facial aesthetics, shares valuable insights on this topic.

Check Qualifications and Experience

When it comes to chin augmentation, it is essential to choose a surgeon with the right credentials. Look for a specialist plastic surgeon who has a special interest and skills in facial procedures. FRACS (Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons) indicates that the surgeon has undergone rigorous training and adheres to high standards of safety and ethics. Dr Sophie Ricketts, with years of experience in chin and jawline enhancement, is recognised for her attention to detail and artistic approach to attaining facial harmony.

Review Before and After Photos

A picture is worth a thousand words, especially in cosmetic surgery. Reviewing before and after photos of previous patients can provide insight into a surgeon’s skills and aesthetic style. Pay attention to the consistency of results and whether they align with your desired outcome. Dr Ricketts showcases a wide range of successful chin augmentations in her portfolio, highlighting her ability to customise procedures to each patient’s unique features while attaining results that blend seamlessly with their appearance.

Consider the Surgeon’s Approach

Every surgeon has a unique approach to cosmetic procedures. It’s important to find one who listens to your objectives and concerns. During your consultation, assess how well the surgeon communicates and whether they take the time to explain the procedure, including the techniques they use and the expected recovery process. Dr Ricketts emphasises a patient-centred approach, ensuring that each client feels heard and involved in the decision-making process.

Evaluate the Facility

The environment in which the surgery takes place can significantly impact your experience. Ensure the surgical facility is accredited and adheres to strict safety protocols. This accreditation ensures that the facility meets high standards for patient care. Dr Ricketts operates in only fully accredited hospitals that are fully equipped to handle cosmetic surgeries safely.

Understand the Risks and Recovery

Like any surgical procedure, chin augmentation comes with potential risks and a recovery period. Make sure your surgeon thoroughly discusses these aspects with you. Understanding what to expect can help you feel more prepared and reduce anxiety. Dr Ricketts is transparent about the risks involved and provides comprehensive preoperative and postoperative care instructions, helping to ensure a smooth recovery process.

Trust Your Instincts

Ultimately, your comfort and trust in the surgeon play a significant role in your decision. After consultations, consider how you felt about the surgeon and their team. A good rapport and trust in their abilities are vital for a successful outcome. Dr Ricketts’ warm and approachable demeanour helps patients feel at ease, making the journey toward chin augmentation a positive experience.

Choosing the right surgeon for chin augmentation is a decision that should not be taken lightly. By considering these key factors and consulting with professionals like Dr Sophie Ricketts, you can ensure a successful outcome. Remember, the right surgeon will not only enhance your appearance but will also prioritise your safety and well-being throughout the process. For more information or to schedule a consultation with Dr Sophie Ricketts, please contact her office today.

A facelift is not a one-size-fits-all procedure. Every face is different, and so should be the approach to restoring it. At the heart of a successful facelift lies the art of customisation, where the surgeon meticulously tailors the procedure to suit the individual’s distinct facial structure, skin quality, and aesthetic objectives. This personalised approach helps ensure results that improve the individual’s appearance without altering their essence, maintaining the integrity of their unique features.

Understanding Facial Anatomy

The first step in customising a facelift is a thorough understanding of the patient’s facial anatomy. The face is a complex structure comprising skin, fat, muscles, and bones, each playing a crucial role in defining one’s appearance. With age, these elements change: the skin loses elasticity, fat redistributes, muscles weaken, and the bone structure may even diminish. These changes manifest differently in each person, leading to a variety of concerns such as loosening skin, deep facial lines, jowls, or a less defined neck.

To attain the most balanced and cohesive outcomes, it’s essential to evaluate how these changes have impacted the face as a whole. Rather than simply tightening the skin, a customised facelift addresses the underlying structures, improving shapes and overall symmetry.

The Consultation Process: A Personalised Plan

A comprehensive consultation is a critical component of the facelift process. During this time, Dr Ricketts will carefully assess your facial features, skin quality, and areas of concern. This evaluation goes beyond the superficial; it involves a detailed analysis of your facial proportions, the thickness and texture of your skin, and the distribution of fat. Additionally, your medical history, lifestyle, and expectations will be considered to ensure that the chosen techniques are safe and effective for you.

Based on this assessment, a bespoke surgical plan is developed. This plan might include a combination of techniques such as a traditional facelift, mini facelift, neck lift, or fat grafting, tailored to address your specific concerns. The objective is to improve your features, ensuring that the results are subtle yet impactful.

Customised Techniques for Optimal Results

Modern facelift techniques offer a range of options, each suited to different needs. For instance, if the primary concern is loosening in the lower face and neck, a neck lift may be incorporated to tighten and redefine the jawline and neck area. If volume loss in the cheeks is a concern, fat grafting or the use of cheek implants can improve fullness.

For those noticing initial changes in skin elasticity, a mini facelift may be sufficient. This less invasive option targets specific areas of concern, such as mild jowling or nasolabial folds, with a shorter recovery time and minimal scarring.

Dr Ricketts employs techniques such as the SMAS (Superficial Musculoaponeurotic System) lift, or, more frequently the Deep Plane lift which involves repositioning the deeper layers of facial tissue. This method not only tightens the skin but also lifts the underlying muscles, providing more lasting but still natural results.

Addressing Individual Concerns

One of the most significant advantages of a customised facelift is the ability to address individual concerns. For example, some patients may wish to focus on improving their neck and jawline, while others may be more concerned with the midface area, where loosening and volume loss are most apparent. By customising the procedure, Dr Ricketts can target these specific areas, ensuring that the results align with the patient’s objectives.

The ultimate aim of a customised facelift is to attain a result that aligns with your own facial features. The goal is not to create a different face but to improve the one you already have. By tailoring the procedure to your individual facial structure, Dr Ricketts helps ensure that the results blend seamlessly with your overall appearance. For a personalised consultation and to explore how a customised facelift can improve your own features, contact Dr Sophie Ricketts today.

Revision rhinoplasty, often referred to as secondary rhinoplasty, is a complex surgical procedure aimed at correcting or improving the results of a previous nose surgery. Whether the initial surgery failed to achieve the desired aesthetic outcome or resulted in functional issues such as breathing difficulties, revision rhinoplasty can offer a solution. However, it is important to understand the intricacies of this procedure, the challenges involved, and what to expect during the process.

Understanding the Need for Revision Rhinoplasty

Patients seek revision rhinoplasty for various reasons. In some cases, the initial surgery might not have delivered the expected cosmetic results, leading to dissatisfaction with the nose’s appearance. Common aesthetic concerns include asymmetry, residual humps or bumps, and abnormal shapes. In other instances, patients might experience functional issues such as obstructed nasal passages or difficulty breathing, which can impact their daily comfort.

The Complexity of Revision Rhinoplasty

Revision rhinoplasty is inherently more challenging than primary rhinoplasty. The primary reason for this complexity is the presence of scar tissue from the initial surgery, which can make the dissection and manipulation of nasal structures more difficult. Additionally, the cartilage and bone structure might have been altered or weakened, requiring careful and precise surgical techniques to attain the desired results.

Furthermore, there is often less available cartilage for grafting purposes. In primary rhinoplasty, the septal cartilage is commonly used for grafting. However, in revision cases, this source might have already been utilised, necessitating the use of cartilage from other areas such as the ear or rib. This adds another layer of complexity to the procedure.

The Importance of a Skilled Surgeon

Given the complexities involved, it is crucial to choose a highly skilled and experienced surgeon for revision rhinoplasty. Dr Sophie Ricketts, an experienced specialist plastic surgeon, possesses extensive experience in both primary and revision rhinoplasty. Her knowledge and dedication to delivering optimal results make her an ideal choice for those considering this procedure. During your consultation with Dr Ricketts, it is essential to discuss your concerns and expectations thoroughly. She uses tools such as 3D imaging to help you visualise potential outcomes and set realistic expectations.

The Consultation Process

The consultation for revision rhinoplasty with Dr Ricketts is comprehensive and detailed. She will evaluate the current state of your nose, considering both the external appearance and internal structure. This assessment includes a thorough review of your medical history, previous surgeries, and any functional issues you may be experiencing.

Photographs will be taken, and advanced imaging techniques such as 3D simulation may be used to demonstrate potential changes and improvements. This is an important step to help ensure both you and Dr Ricketts have a clear understanding of the possible results and any limitations that may exist.

The Surgical Procedure

The surgical approach for revision rhinoplasty varies depending on the specific issues being addressed. In some cases, a closed approach, where incisions are made inside the nostrils, may be sufficient. However, more complex cases often require an open approach, involving a small incision on the columella (the tissue between the nostrils). This provides better access to the nasal structures and allows for more precise adjustments.

Grafting is a common component of revision rhinoplasty. Cartilage grafts may be used to rebuild or reinforce the nasal structure, improve symmetry, and improve both form and function. The source of the graft material will depend on the availability of septal cartilage and the extent of the required reconstruction.

Recovery and Results

Recovery from revision rhinoplasty is similar to that of primary rhinoplasty but may take slightly longer due to the complexity of the procedure. Initial swelling and bruising will subside within the first few weeks, but it can take up to a year for the final results to fully manifest as residual swelling gradually diminishes.

It is essential to follow Dr Ricketts’ postoperative care instructions diligently. This includes avoiding strenuous activities, keeping your head elevated, and attending all follow-up appointments to monitor your progress.

Revision rhinoplasty offers a second chance to attain the aesthetic and functional results you desire. However, it requires careful consideration, a clear understanding of the challenges involved, and the guidance of a skilled surgeon. By choosing Dr Sophie Ricketts, a qualified and experienced professional, you can navigate the complexities of this procedure and move closer to attaining your desired outcome. With her comprehensive approach and dedication to patient care, Dr Ricketts helps ensure that your revision rhinoplasty journey is as safe and successful as possible.

Chin augmentation is a popular cosmetic procedure that can improve the appearance of the chin, creating a more balanced and harmonious facial profile. Dr Sophie Ricketts, a specialist plastic surgeon passionate about facial aesthetics and reconstructive surgery, is dedicated to helping her patients achieve their desired look with the highest level of care and precision. In this blog, the various options available for chin augmentation are explored to help patients understand which might be best suited to their needs.

What is Chin Augmentation?

Chin augmentation is a surgical procedure designed to improve the contours of the chin, facial symmetry, and proportion. This can be achieved through the use of chin implants or by repositioning the existing bone, a technique known as sliding genioplasty. Both methods have their own unique advantages and considerations.

Chin Implants

Procedure

Chin implants are a popular choice for augmenting the chin. The procedure involves placing a synthetic implant, typically made of silicone, over the existing bone. This implant is carefully shaped to achieve the desired projection and contour, then secured with tiny screws to ensure stability.

Advantages

1. Less Invasive: The procedure is relatively less invasive compared to bone surgery, with a shorter operating time.
2. Predictable Results: Implants provide a predictable and stable outcome, as the shape and size can be precisely chosen.
3. Reversible: If necessary, implants can be removed or replaced, offering flexibility in future adjustments.

Considerations

1. Risk of Complications: There is a risk of infection or implant shifting, which may require additional surgery.
2. Material Reaction: Although rare, some patients may experience a reaction to the synthetic material.
3. Limited Reshaping: Implants are ideal for improving projection but offer limited ability to reshape the chin significantly.

Sliding Genioplasty

Procedure

Sliding genioplasty, also known as osseous genioplasty, involves cutting a portion of the chin bone and repositioning it. This bone segment can be moved forward, backwards, or reshaped to achieve the desired look. The repositioned bone is then secured with plates and screws.

Advantages

1. Natural Results: Since the procedure uses the patient’s own bone, the results tend to look natural.
2. Versatile: Sliding genioplasty allows for more comprehensive reshaping, including vertical adjustments and correcting asymmetries.
3. No Implant Risk: There’s no risk of foreign body reactions since no synthetic materials are used.

Considerations

1. More Invasive: The procedure is more invasive, with a longer recovery time compared to implants.
2. Higher Risk: There is a higher risk of complications such as nerve damage, infection, or bone healing issues.
3. Permanent Change: The changes made are permanent and may be more challenging to revise compared to implants.

Choosing the Right Procedure for You

Deciding between chin implants and sliding genioplasty depends on various factors, including your aesthetic objectives, medical history, and lifestyle. Here are some key considerations:

• Aesthetic Objectives: If you seek a moderate improvement in projection, chin implants may be sufficient. For more significant reshaping or correcting asymmetries, sliding genioplasty might be the better option.
• Medical History: Discuss any previous surgeries, dental issues, or bone conditions with your surgeon, as these may influence the suitability of each procedure.
• Recovery Time: Consider the recovery period and how it fits into your schedule. Implants generally have a quicker recovery compared to the more invasive sliding genioplasty.
• Surgeon’s Recommendation: A consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon is crucial. They can evaluate your facial structure, discuss your objectives, and recommend the most appropriate procedure for your needs.

Whether choosing chin implants or sliding genioplasty, it’s essential to understand the benefits and considerations of each option. Dr Sophie Ricketts is committed to helping patients achieve their desired look with care, compassion, and the highest level of expertise. Those considering chin augmentation are invited to schedule a consultation to discuss their options and embark on the journey to a more balanced and harmonious facial profile.

Facelifts are a popular cosmetic procedure aimed at addressing loose skin on the face. However, there are several myths and misconceptions surrounding facelift surgery that can lead to confusion. In this blog, we will debunk some of the most common myths about facelifts to provide you with a clearer understanding of the procedure.

Myth #1: Facelifts are only for older individuals

While facelifts are often associated with older individuals looking to reverse the effects of ageing, they can also be beneficial for younger patients. Younger individuals may choose to undergo a facelift to address genetic predisposition to early ageing. Facelifts are increasingly common in the under 50s age group to improve the earliest signs of lower facial ageing around the jawline and neck.

Myth #2: Facelifts result in a tight, unnatural appearance

Modern facelift techniques are designed to produce natural-looking results. Skilled plastic surgeons can tailor the procedure to each patient’s unique facial structure, ensuring that the results are subtle and not overdone. By repositioning loose tissues and tightening the skin, a facelift can create a more youthful looking skin without looking stretched or unnatural.

Myth #3: Facelifts require extensive downtime and recovery

It is useful to think of facelift as having 2 kinds of recovery; a physical recovery and an aesthetic recovery. While some downtime is still required, physically, most patients are able to resume their normal activities within a few weeks of surgery. Aesthetic recovery – to achieve your final cosmetic result is around 6 weeks.

Myth #4: Facelifts are only for women

Facelift surgery is not limited to women; men can also benefit from the procedure. Men may choose to undergo a facelift to maintain their appearance and address any loose skin. The results of a facelift can help men achieve a more rested and healthy look without compromising their masculine features.

Myth #5: Facelift results are permanent

While facelift surgery can produce long-lasting results, it does not stop the natural ageing process. Over time, the skin will continue to age, and additional treatments may be needed to maintain the results of the facelift. However, a well-performed facelift can provide continuing improvements, helping patients look refreshed and more youthful for years to come.

Facelift surgery can be a viable option for individuals looking to address the signs of ageing. By debunking these common myths, we hope to provide you with a better understanding of what facelift surgery entails. If you have any further questions or would like to schedule a consultation, please do not hesitate to contact Dr Sophie Ricketts.

Nobody wants to feel like their nose is not serving them either aesthetically or functionally, and if you do, perhaps you should consider rhinoplasty.

Welcome to the world of rhinoplasty, also known as a nose job, where a simple procedure can have a profound impact on your appearance. Rhinoplasty, or nose reshaping surgery, has the power to transform not just your nose but also your entire face. Whether you’re looking to correct a physical imperfection or simply achieve a look that better reflects your unique beauty, rhinoplasty may be the answer. Let’s take a deeper dive into everything you need to know about rhinoplasty, from the surgery itself to the recovery, and why you should consider Dr. Sophie Ricketts.

Why should I consider rhinoplasty?

There are a variety of reasons why a person should consider rhinoplasty. Some people may have a physical imperfection that they would like to correct, such as a hump on the bridge of the nose, a droopy tip, or uneven nostrils. Others may consider this surgery because they have difficulty breathing due to structural abnormalities in their nose and wish to have this corrected. Others may simply wish to achieve a different appearance for their nose, one that they feel will better reflect their overall facial features or enhance their overall aesthetic. It is important to have a consultation with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon, like Dr. Sophie Ricketts, to discuss your expectations and goals and to understand what the procedure entails.

What does the rhinoplasty surgery involve?

As mentioned above, rhinoplasty can be performed for both cosmetic and functional reasons, so different techniques are used in surgery to meet the individual’s specific needs or goals.

During the surgery, the surgeon will make incisions inside the nose or on the columella, which is the strip of skin between the nostrils, to access the underlying bone and cartilage. The bone and cartilage are then reshaped to achieve the desired result.

In an “open” rhinoplasty, the incision is made on the columella and the skin is lifted to give the surgeon access to the underlying structures. In a “closed” rhinoplasty, all incisions are made inside the nostrils, so there is no visible scarring.

The surgery typically takes between one and four hours to complete, and it is done under general anaesthesia.

What is the recovery like after rhinoplasty surgery?

Recovery after rhinoplasty surgery varies for each patient, but in general, it usually takes about a week for the bruising to subside and several weeks for swelling to decrease.

Right after the surgery, the eyes and face may be swollen and a little bruised, and there will be a splint on the outside and inside of the nose. Pain and discomfort are usually minimal and can be managed with pain medication, which the surgeon will prescribe.

For the first few days after the surgery, the patient is advised to keep their head elevated and not blow their nose.

The patient will have follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor their healing and have any external sutures and spints removed.

The individual should avoid strenuous activities for around six weeks after surgery, and most individuals can return to work or school within a week to ten days after the rhinoplasty. The final results of the surgery can take several months to a year to fully appreciate.

Why Dr. Sophie Ricketts?

Dr. Sophie Rickets, based in Richmond, Victoria, has had 12 years of practice specialising in surgery of the face. She is board-certified by the Medical Board of Australia and the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons.

If you’d like to know more about rhinoplasty or other surgeries Dr. Sophie Ricketts offers, visit https://drsophiericketts.com.au/procedures/.

Please don’t hesitate to book a consultation if you are interested in rhinoplasty or if you have any questions – just call 03 9828 1300.

Eyelid surgery can resolve a number of cosmetic issues and achieve a refreshed, more youthful appearance.

With age, many people notice fine lines, excess skin, and puffiness around the eyes. Fortunately, it is possible to resolve these issues with a simple surgical procedure. Also known as blepharoplasty, eyelid surgery is a popular treatment for those who would like to improve the overall appearance of their eyelids and achieve a refreshed, more youthful aesthetic. The procedure, which can be performed on either the upper or lower eyelids, can also help resolve certain functional issues related to the eyelids. Read on to find out what problems can often be resolved with blepharoplasty and if the treatment is an option for you.

What issues can blepharoplasty treat?

Eyelid surgery can be performed for a number of purposes. Some of the most common issues that can be resolved include skin that is loose or sagging; fatty deposits that cause puffiness in the eyelids; bags underneath the eyes; drooping lower eyelids; excess eyelid skin; and fine wrinkles on the lower eyelids.

All these issues can be addressed with surgery, which gets rid of excess skin, reduces puffiness, redefines the crease of the upper eyelid, and flattens out wrinkles under the eyes.

Who is suited for eyelid surgery?

If you are considering eyelid surgery, it is best that you are in good general health and that you don’t suffer from a medical condition that could affect your body’s ability to heal. Ideal candidates are also non-smokers.

If you decide to go ahead with the surgery, it is important that you have realistic aesthetic goals. While the procedure can go a long way toward improving one’s overall appearance, it’s always best to consult with your surgeon beforehand so that you can discuss your specific concerns and raise any questions that you might have. Your surgeon will let you know exactly what you can expect from the process and give you an idea of the types of results that can be realistically achieved, depending on your specific issues.

What will your consultation involve?

Before you go ahead with eyelid surgery, you will need to see your surgeon to discuss your aesthetic goals as well as any health conditions that you have. Your surgeon will also take this opportunity to evaluate your general health and confirm that you are a suitable candidate for treatment. They will take some photographs and discuss the various options that are available to you.

During your consultation, you are encouraged to raise any questions or concerns that you have. Your surgeon will explain any potential risks and side effects associated with the treatment, as well as provide guidance and advice for your recovery period.

How can we help?

Dr. Sophie Ricketts offers a range of procedures for the face, including eyelid surgery. She can perform the surgery on the upper or lower eyelids, depending on your specific needs and concerns. If you are worried about excess skin on your eyelids, puffiness above the inner corners of your eyes, dark shadows under your eyes, or any other cosmetic issues related to your eyelids, we encourage you to come in for a consultation. Dr. Ricketts will explain the procedure to you in detail and let you know if you are a suitable candidate for treatment.

To find out more about eyelid surgery and what it involves, please have a look here.

If you would like to arrange a consultation with Dr. Sophie Ricketts, please don’t hesitate to get in touch here.

Dr. Ricketts also offers a comprehensive range of other procedures. These include treatments for the face, nose, breasts, and body. To find out more about her extensive offering, please have a look here.

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.

If you are not happy with the shape of your nose, or it is not functioning ideally, a rhinoplasty may be able to help you correct any issues.

Any imperfections of the nose can be corrected by rhinoplasty, a procedure more commonly known as a nose job), which focuses on reshaping and reducing the size of the nose while preserving its natural anatomy.

Why should you consider a nose job?

For some patients, they may have cosmetic reasons for the procedure. For example, they may feel that the bridge of their nose might be too wide, the tip too pointed, or the nostrils too large. For others, it may be for function reasons. In addition to the aesthetic benefits which come as a result of a rhinoplasty, there are also functional reasons for undergoing the procedure. These include better breathing and assisting with the treatment of sleep apnoea.

Because the nose is an important part of breathing, a rhinoplasty can also greatly improve one’s ability to breathe. Another reason is that it may assist with the treatment of sleep apnoea. Some people experience sleep apnoea, a condition in which the patient stops breathing while sleeping due to a blockage in their airways. In some cases, a surgically adjusted nose can ease the complications of sleep apnoea.

What is involved in a rhinoplasty?

The rhinoplasty procedure is a surgical procedure that reshapes the size of the nose. The goal is to either improve the way you look, correct a deformity of the nose, or correct a medical condition.

The surgeon will make incisions inside the nostrils and lift the edges of the cartilage that makes up the bridge of the nose, which allows the surgeon to reshape the cartilage. The surgeon can then reposition the cartilage into a new shape. Additionally, your surgeon can remove some of the excess skin on the nose, which can make it appear smaller and may enhance the aesthetic qualities of the nose. The rhinoplasty procedure is an outpatient procedure which is often completed in about an hour.

Recovering from a rhinoplasty

After surgery, you may need to wear a splint for 7-10 days and take pain medication for about a week. Recovery time takes several weeks, but most people feel back to normal after about 4 weeks. A fully healed nose will have minimal scarring, and excess skin, and any asymmetries corrected as a result of the rhinoplasty procedure will no longer be visible.

How much does rhinoplasty cost?

The cost of rhinoplasty can vary widely, depending on several factors. These may include the type of rhinoplasty surgery performed, your surgeon’s fees, any hospital costs incurred and the type of private health insurance coverage you have. However, it is important to keep in mind that the cost can vary widely.

Choosing a surgeon to perform a rhinoplasty

Amongst all the important decisions you’ll need to make when it comes to rhinoplasty, the most crucial one is choosing a surgeon. The type of surgeon you choose will have a significant impact on the results of your rhinoplasty. Therefore, it’s crucial to make sure you choose someone who is highly skilled and experienced in performing rhinoplasty procedures, like Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Sophie Ricketts.

Rhinoplasty in Melbourne

If you are considering having rhinoplasty surgery for cosmetic or medical reasons, you can visit our rhinoplasty page to discover more about the procedure. To find out more about the range of services available in Dr Sophie Ricketts’ practice, be sure to click here.

To book a consultation with Dr Sophie Ricketts, be sure to call (03) 9828 1307 or contact her today.

Luckily, plastic surgery techniques have improved substantially over the last few years, with facelifts now looking far more natural, and far more appealing.

We’re all familiar with the cliché idea of plastic surgery from the 80s – the ‘wind tunnel’ face, the swollen lips, the eyes that seem to have migrated all the way to the sides of the head. Fortunately, plastic surgery techniques nowadays create far more natural results.

There are many reasons why you could benefit from facelift surgery. Ageing leads to thin, papery skin that is prone to wrinkling, while weight loss (or gain!) can change the shape of your face. Fat deposits can shift over time, while the natural tug of gravity can leave you with hollow cheeks or droopy jowls. If you’re starting to notice some wear and tear, or are simply unhappy with what you see in the mirror, facelift surgery may be a good option for you.

Selecting Your Surgeon

There are so many options when it comes to facelift surgery. Therefore, it’s important to choose your surgeon with care. A good plastic surgeon will fully examine your personal problem area and develop a unique strategy for surgery based on your needs.

For example, Dr. Sophie Ricketts often performs additional complementary surgeries along with traditional facelifts, such as cheek implants or fat transfer to increase facial volume, based on the needs and desires of her patients. It is essential to feel both comfortable and reassured by your surgeon—be sure to go with someone who will listen to each of your queries and fully answer all your questions.

What Can a Facelift Do For Me?

Simply put, a good facelift will leave you looking naturally younger. It will aid in restoring your youthful appearance by mitigating various signs of ageing – you can expect firmer skin, along with fewer wrinkles and creases. Additionally, if you were starting to see some sag, a facelift will tighten all that skin right up for you. Let’s take a closer look at the areas that can be specifically targeted by your surgeon:

Forehead and Brows

The forehead is one of the first areas of the face to get truly noticeable lines and wrinkles. As you get older, the muscles in your forehead must work harder to keep your brows from drooping down. Eventually, this can lead not only to wrinkles but also to a heavy, hooded appearance above your eyes. A brow lift will target this area, mitigating forehead wrinkles and lifting the brows to ‘open’ up the eyes. Scarring from this kind of procedure is minimal, as all the necessary incisions are done beneath the hairline, leaving your face free from any post-surgery blemishes.

Cheeks, Nose, and Lips

The cheeks can be a problem area for many different reasons. Some people find that as they age, their skin starts to sag and they are left with unsightly ‘hollows’ in their cheeks, while others have the opposite problem and wish for a slimmer contour and a less ‘round’ look. This is where additional surgeries such as cheek implants or fat transfers can be beneficial.

Cheek implants can fill out those hollows, while fat transfers can help you get the contours you dream of. Additionally, the areas around the nose and above the lips are prone to developing deep creases and wrinkles – a facelift targeting these areas will help to smooth out those lines, leaving you looking younger and more rejuvenated.

Chin and Neck

The dreaded “turkey neck” is one of the more common issues that plastic surgeons deal with. As you age, skin loses elasticity, which means more sag. More sag means less definition around your jaw, which impacts your facial shape, as well as changes your appearance. A neck lift will enhance your natural jaw line through tightening the skin along the front of the neck and around the jaw.

How Can We Help?

Dr. Sophie Ricketts is a highly qualified plastic surgeon and provides a wide range of cosmetic surgery treatments. Whether you wish to tighten up some saggy skin, get rid of some wrinkles, or enhance and define your natural features, Dr. Ricketts will assist you every step of the way. From in-depth consultations before surgery through to your final check-up, Dr. Ricketts will be on hand to help reverse the signs of ageing and rejuvenate your appearance.

To find out more about face lifts, please have a look here.

To book a consultation with Dr Sophie Ricketts, please call (03) 9829 1307, or contact us today.