Face

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.

A double chin can often be resolved with neck lift surgery.

If you are concerned about a double chin, you are certainly not alone. Many people notice this issue, especially as they get older. The good news is that is often possible to resolve the problem and achieve a more pleasing facial shape. Although each person is different, and the treatment that you choose will depend on your particular needs, your surgeon may recommend a combination of approaches to get rid of excess fat and tighten your skin for a firmer, more defined neck and chin.

One of the best ways to get rid of a double chin is by means of neck lift surgery — read on to find out what this involves…

What is a double chin?

Also known as submental fat, a double chin occurs when an excess layer of fat forms below the chin. Although a double chin can be a side-effect of weight gain, other factors can also contribute to this common issue. These include genetics, as well as loose skin and a loss of skin elasticity caused by the natural ageing process.

As we get older, the skin tends to get thinner and weaker over time and the body produces less of the proteins that keep the skin firm and plump. This leads to sagging skin, which often affects the area under the jaw and in the neck area.

What are the treatment options?

Sagging skin in the neck area, as well as excess fat under the chin, are common concerns as one begins to age. In fact, the neck is often the first place to show visible signs of ageing. If you have noticed excess fat and loose skin in the area of the neck, chin and jaw, your surgeon might recommend one or a few procedures.

To get rid of excess fat from under the chin, liposuction is often an effective option. But, if you would like to remove excess skin and tighten the neck muscles, it is worth considering neck lift surgery.

What does neck lift surgery involve?

The purpose of neck lift surgery is to remove excess skin and fat and tighten the muscles for improved definition in the area of the chin and neck. The surgery can resolve a range of issues, including excess or sagging skin in the lower face; deposits of fat under the chin; loose neck skin; and muscle banding in the neck. In fact, the treatment often goes a long way in improving many of the visible signs of aging and helps to achieve a smoother, more youthful-looking contour.

Although the procedure is highly effective, it is important to understand that neck lift surgery cannot stop the aging process. It does however create excellent definition and a well-defined profile while achieving a natural, but rejuvenated result.

How can we help?

Dr Sophie Ricketts offers a range of procedures for the face and neck, including neck lift surgery. If you are concerned with some of the visible effects of ageing, such as excess fat or sagging skin in the area of the jaw, chin and neck, we encourage you to come in for a consultation.

Many of the effects of ageing can be reversed or reduced with face and neck lift surgery, and Dr Ricketts will work hard to achieve natural and pleasing results. You might choose to combine your procedure with another treatment, such as a facelift for optimal results.

To find out more about neck lift surgery and what it involves, as well as to see some before and after images of patients who have had a neck lift surgery and liposuction,  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.

Lower eyelid surgery can help to resolve eye bags and puffiness.

If you have noticed puffiness, sagging, or wrinkles underneath your eyes, you are not alone. These are all common cosmetic concerns that can occur as part of the natural ageing process. The good news is that the appearance of the skin underneath the eyes can be considerably improved with the help of a procedure known as lower lid blepharoplasty. Often, this procedure is combined with other facial treatments, such as an upper eyelid lift or brow lift. Read on to find out what the process involves, and if it’s worth considering if you have eye bags…

What does the procedure involve?

Lower lid blepharoplasty is a cosmetic treatment that works by getting rid of excess fat and loose skin underneath the eyes, and reducing the appearance of wrinkles in this area. Many people struggle with puffy and wrinkled eyebags as they get older as the skin loses elasticity, fat and volume. Lower lid blepharoplasty helps to resolve the issue by achieving a much smoother, more youthful-looking appearance.

During the surgery, your surgeon will carefully remove skin and fat from underneath the eyes before stitching the skin for a tighter, smoother appearance.

Why consider lower lid blepharoplasty?

Lower eyelid surgery is often an effective option when it comes to addressing a range of cosmetic concerns. Some of the most common issues that are resolved with the procedure include bags underneath the eyes; sagging eyelids; wrinkles on the eyelids; dark circles underneath the eyes; and asymmetrical lower eyelids.

If you have noticed any of these issues and are concerned about your appearance as a result, it is advisable that you speak to your surgeon about your treatment options. Let your surgeon know exactly what you are worried about and what kind of results you would like to achieve. They will then work with you to formulate a treatment plan and let you know what you can expect from the process.

What can you expect after surgery?

The recovery period following blepharoplasty is generally surprisingly fast. You can expect some bruising and swelling after surgery, but these side effects should resolve within 10 to 14 days. By three to four weeks following surgery, most evidence of your surgery should have disappeared.

Once your cosmetic procedure is complete, your surgeon will let you know how to take care of your treatment site. You may find it helpful to apply cold compresses to your eyes for around 48 hours in order to minimise swelling.

Although the recovery period is generally very quick, you should limit strenuous exercise for about a week after surgery. You might notice some discomfort and dryness for a few days, but these side effects are completely normal.

How can we help?

Dr Sophie Ricketts offers a range of procedures for the face, including eyelid surgery. If you have noticed puffiness underneath your eyes, and are concerned about always looking tired, you might consider lower blepharoplasty. We encourage you to come in and see Dr Sophie Ricketts for a consultation so that you can discuss your concerns and expectations in detail. She will explain the process to you and address any questions that you have regarding the treatment and recovery period.

If you would like to find out more about eyelid surgery, please have a look here.

Dr Sophie Ricketts also offers a number of other cosmetic procedures for the face. These include brow lift; face and neck lift; chin surgery; ear surgery and rhinoplasty. No matter which treatment you choose, Dr Ricketts will guide you through the process from consultation to surgery and the recovery beyond. To find out more about the procedures that Dr Sophie Ricketts offers, 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.

Brow lift surgery usually takes an hour or two to complete.

Brow lift surgery is a procedure that is performed in order to raise skin, soft tissue and resolve the appearance of a heavy, tired or angry-looking brow. The procedure can go a long way in improving one’s overall appearance, and is often ideal for those who have an asymmetrical or sagging brow area. In some cases, brow lift surgery is performed along with other facial procedures, but can also be done as a stand-alone treatment. Read on to find out how long the surgery usually takes, and what you can expect from the process…

Why consider a brow lift?

The brow can begin to sag or lower as part of the natural ageing process. This often occurs as the result of a loss of elasticity in the skin and soft tissues of the face. When the brow lowers, it can contribute to a tired or angry-looking appearance. By raising the position of the brow, it is often possible to achieve a more youthful-looking appearance.

How long does it take?

Brow lift surgery generally takes between one and two hours to complete. The exact duration of your procedure will depend on the type of surgical technique that your surgeon deems most appropriate for you.

Some of the possible techniques that may be used include endoscopic brow lift, in which small incisions are made behind the hairline through which tiny surgical instruments are inserted; coronal brow lift, in which an incision is made behind the hairline across the top of the head; and hairline brow lift, in which skin and tissue is removed from the top of the forehead instead of the scalp.

What can you expect from the recovery?

After your surgery is complete, your surgeon will let you know how to take care of your incisions. They will also recommend some medications to help alleviate any pain and discomfort that you feel. It is completely normal to experience some swelling — you may find it helpful to apply a cold compress to the affected area to minimise this side effect.

You may experience swelling for a few weeks but this, along with any discomfort that you feel, will gradually resolve with time. Your surgeon will let you know when you can begin all of your usual activities again. Any sutures that you have will typically be removed after around a week to ten days following surgery.

What kind of results can you expect?

Once the swelling has subsided, you will begin to notice the results of your brow loft procedure. The skin and soft tissues of your brow and forehead will be raised to a higher position, and you can expect your face to take on a refreshed and generally more youthful aesthetic. Your eyes will also appear more open than before, and any heaviness over your eyes will be reduced.

How can we help?

Regardless of your age, if you are unhappy with the appearance of your brow and would like to achieve a more youthful look, then brow lift surgery may be worth considering. We encourage you to speak to Dr Sophie Ricketts about whether the treatment is right for you and to raise any questions or concerns that you have during your consultation. It is important that you are fully informed before going ahead with any cosmetic procedure.

To find out more about brow lift surgery with Dr Sophie Ricketts, please have a look here.

Besides brow lift surgery, Dr Sophie Ricketts offers a number of other procedures for the face, including eye lid surgery; face and neck lifts; chin surgery; ear surgery and rhinoplasty. She also offers treatments for the breasts and body — to see the full list of procedures that are available, please have a look here.

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