The prosthetic breast augmentation is a surgical procedure which aims to improve the size and volume of the breasts. Normally, breast implant surgery to correct asymmetry both between her breasts, as to make them more attractive is recommended. The breast augmentation operation is performed through a small incision made , according to the anatomy of the patient, around the areola of the nipple, in the groove under the breast or armpit. Through the incisions on each breast, breast tissue is lifted and breast prostheses are inserted directly under the breast tissue or under the chest muscle. These implants can be silicone or saline and various forms, generally rounded, oval or anatomical, currently, there are also prosthesis rough textured surface to provide a more natural look. The results of the intervention of breast augmentation are very satisfactory and the incision scar is almost invisible.
Abdominoplasty, which is also known as a tummy tuck, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that flattens the abdomen by surgically removing excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen. This allows the abdominal wall muscles to be tightened. This is a major procedure that requires general anaesthesia. It is not an alternative to weight-loss.
An abdominoplasty is suitable for men and women of a stable weight and in good health. Women might consider having an abdominoplasty to remove excess skin resulting from pregnancy. Additionally, men and women who have lost a lot of weight are often left with lots of saggy, excess skin which can be removed from the abdomen with a tummy tuck.
To begin with, a large incision is made across the lower abdomen. Through this incision, the skin from the abdominal wall underneath the belly button is separated and the excess skin of the abdomen is cut away and the excess fat removed. The incision is then closed with stitches. An abdominoplasty can be either partial (mini tummy tuck) or complete, depending on how much excess skin and fat there is, and where it is mostly located. During a complete tummy tuck, it is likely that the belly button will need to be moved. Drainage tubes are placed in the incision to drain excess fluids following surgery.
It is important to stop smoking for a period before surgery, usually at least two weeks. Days before the operation it may be necessary to stop taking certain medications. There will also be a period of fasting before surgery.
The patient must keep in mind that the scar resulting from the operation is permanent, although its size will depend on the type of incision made according to the surgical requirements of each case. The days following the procedure, the patient will have a little pain and discomfort, so the doctor will prescribe painkillers. You will need up to six weeks off work and exercise whilst you heal. You won’t be able to drive either for a number of weeks. It may be necessary to wear a special elastic control support for a few weeks to encourage healing and to reduce swelling. After six weeks, you can stop wearing the elastic support and return to most normal activities.
Blepharoplasty, or dark circles surgery, is a plastic surgery operation aimed at correcting eyelid defects and deformities, or to aesthetically modify the region around the eyes. It often involves the removal of excess skin, muscle, and fat that accumulates around the eyes with age, causing sagging and the appearance of bags under the eyes.
As we get older, our skin loses its elasticity and the eyelids are no exception. As they stretch, creating excess skin, and the muscles that support them weaken, excess fat can start to collect above and below the eyelids, causing drooping eyebrows and upper eyelids and bags under the eyes.
If this excess fat and skin prevents your eyes from opening fully, it can interfere with your peripheral vision, meaning that blepharoplasty may be done to improve vision. However, most cases (particularly operations on the lower eyelids) are performed purely for cosmetic reasons, as the removal of bags and dark circles has the effect of rejuvenating the face.
There are two ways to perform this surgery:
External route: A small cut is made under the eyelashes allowing the surgeon to remove excess skin, muscle, and fat. It is then sealed by a very fine suture that facilitates skin tightening.
Internal route: A small incision is made in the inner part of the lower eyelid, through which fat is extracted. Some surgeons do not even use a suture to close the incision, since this tissue heals easily by itself. The eyes are protected by an orbital metallic strip, which is inserted after the patient is under anaesthesia (local or general, depending on whether the blepharoplasty is part of a longer procedure).
The duration of the surgery is usually between 30 minutes and one hour, depending on the number of eyelids that will be operated on.
Before the blepharoplasty procedure, you will meet with an ophthalmologist and/or plastic surgeon, who will take your medical history and discuss your expectations with you. You will also have to undergo a physical examination, an eye test, and photos will be taken of your eye(s). Smokers will have to stop smoking several weeks before the operation.
Once the surgery is completed, an ointment will be applied to the eyes to lubricate them and in some cases, a soft bandage.
Patients may experience blurred or double vision, excessive production of tears, hypersensitivity to light, discomfort or pain, and some swelling and bruising for a short while after a blepharoplasty.
Your doctor may suggest that you take steps such as sleeping with your head elevated higher than your chest for a few days and using cold compresses on your eyes in order to reduce inflammation and bruising.
You will be informed if you are required to apply eye drops to keep your eyes hydrated. Oedema and bruising will gradually diminish until it disappears completely and you will begin to look and feel much better.
Breast reduction is a surgical procedure to reduce the size of the breasts. The operation is performed under general anaesthesia by a specialist in plastic, aesthetic and reconstructive surgery.
Breast reduction may be done for aesthetic reasons, in women who feel that the size of their breasts is not proportional or in harmony with the rest of their body. However, in many women, the procedure also alleviates neck and back pain caused by the excess weight.
The plastic surgeon will recommend the most suitable breast reduction technique for you. However the operation usually involves making incisions around the areola to remove excess fat, skin and breast tissue and to shape the whole breast to achieve the desired position and size. This results in smaller, firmer breasts that are less prone to sagging. For an optimal outcome, a mastopexy (breast lift) is always performed as part of breast reduction surgery.
Before surgery, a medical examination is necessary to determine whether you can undergo surgery under general anaesthesia. If you are a smoker, you will have to stop smoking from at least 4 weeks before surgery. You may also have to stop taking certain medications.
After the operation, you may have to stay in hospital overnight, possibly longer. Recovery at home can take 1 to 2 weeks, after which you can gradually resume your usual routine. Breast pain during recovery is normal, so painkillers are usually administered. Oedema and mild bleeding may also occur. During recovery, you will have to avoid lifting, driving, exercise and sunbathing. Furthermore, you will have to sleep with your head and back elevated.
The most common hand problems include:
Where there is a condition of the hand, the most common symptoms are:
The hands suffer, to a large extent, from wear and tear, which happens earlier in men than in women. Other causes of hand pathologies include:
Hand pathologies can be prevented by regular exercises that relax the joints at times of constant work. These exercises are based on the movement of the wrist and the stretching of the fingers, all of them with the purpose of relaxing the hand, getting rid of the stiffness and making the hands more flexible. By following a diet rich in calcium, vitamin D and omega 3, you can also help to keep the bones and joints healthy.
The treatment for the hand will depend on the ailment, but all treatments are aimed at restoring functionality. Some injuries can be treated with rest and cessation of activity, but some fractures and diseases that cause limb deformities will require surgery.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition which causes numbness, tingling, or pain in the hand. It is a common condition which occurs due to compression of the median nerve in the wrist, which runs down the carpal tunnel, a narrow passage on the side of the wrist. The nerve controls movement in the thumb, and fingers except the little finger.
Carpal tunnel symptoms normally progress over time, and do not come on suddenly. Usually symptoms start with numbness or tingling in the fingers (except the little finger, controlled by a different nerve) or thumb, which comes and goes. Symptoms can also include pain in the fingers, or even pain in the arm occurring between the hand and elbow. Sometimes symptoms become more apparent at night.
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the carpal tunnel inside the wrist swells and compresses, or squeezes the median nerve. There are certain risk factors, including being overweight, having another illness such as diabetes or arthritis, and doing a job or having a hobby which involves repeatedly bending the wrist or gripping objects hard. Some women also develop carpal tunnel syndrome during pregnancy.
Some measures can be taken to help prevent carpal tunnel syndrome from developing. Firstly, you can take care of your health in general, by maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, and regularly exercising. You should also exercise your arm, hand, and finger muscles to keep them strong.
Try to avoid activities which place repeated pressure in the same area, and move your hand and wrist in a way that spreads the pressure over a larger area. Regularly switch hands and take breaks if performing tasks which involve a repetitive motion.
Carpal tunnel syndrome can often be treated at home, as it clears up naturally in a few months, especially if you have it while pregnant. Some recommendations include:
If your symptoms get worse or do not go away, make an appointment to see your doctor. They may prescribe medication, usually in the form of steroid injections, or in more serious cases where carpal tunnel does not go away, they may refer you on to a specialist for surgery.
Surgery usually cures carpal tunnel syndrome, and is done as a day case procedure. After surgery, the hand and wrist will recover after about a period of a month.
Mr Oliver Harley is a leading plastic surgeon in Sussex, Kent, Surrey and London, who specialises in cosmetic surgery and hand and wrist surgery.
Mr Harley qualified in medicine in 1998 at Guy’s and St Thomas’ Hospital in London and since then has gained extensive experience in plastic and reconstructive surgery. He completed his higher surgical training at St Thomas’ Hospital, St Georges Hospital and Queen Victoria Hospital. Mr Harley added to his expertise by undertaking specialist training fellowships in cosmetic surgery and in hand and wrist surgery.
Mr Harley’s passion and interest in plastic surgery have led him to participate in charitable surgical missions to Africa. He has won conference prizes for his research projects in abdominoplasty and in finger joint replacements. Mr Harley has been an investigator in clinical trial work for new Botulinum toxin products.
Abdominoplasty, which is also known as a tummy tuck, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that flattens the abdomen by surgically removing excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen. This allows the abdominal wall muscles to be tightened. This is a major procedure that requires general anaesthesia. It is not an alternative to weight-loss.
An abdominoplasty is suitable for men and women of a stable weight and in good health. Women might consider having an abdominoplasty to remove excess skin resulting from pregnancy. Additionally, men and women who have lost a lot of weight are often left with lots of saggy, excess skin which can be removed from the abdomen with a tummy tuck.
To begin with, a large incision is made across the lower abdomen. Through this incision, the skin from the abdominal wall underneath the belly button is separated and the excess skin of the abdomen is cut away and the excess fat removed. The incision is then closed with stitches. An abdominoplasty can be either partial (mini tummy tuck) or complete, depending on how much excess skin and fat there is, and where it is mostly located. During a complete tummy tuck, it is likely that the belly button will need to be moved. Drainage tubes are placed in the incision to drain excess fluids following surgery.
It is important to stop smoking for a period before surgery, usually at least two weeks. Days before the operation it may be necessary to stop taking certain medications. There will also be a period of fasting before surgery.
The patient must keep in mind that the scar resulting from the operation is permanent, although its size will depend on the type of incision made according to the surgical requirements of each case. The days following the procedure, the patient will have a little pain and discomfort, so the doctor will prescribe painkillers. You will need up to six weeks off work and exercise whilst you heal. You won’t be able to drive either for a number of weeks. It may be necessary to wear a special elastic control support for a few weeks to encourage healing and to reduce swelling. After six weeks, you can stop wearing the elastic support and return to most normal activities.
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form of skin cancer, it is non-melanoma. It can present as a shiny nodule or a patch similar to eczema. Most cases appear on areas that have been repeatedly exposed to the sun.
Blepharoplasty, or dark circles surgery, is a plastic surgery operation aimed at correcting eyelid defects and deformities, or to aesthetically modify the region around the eyes. It often involves the removal of excess skin, muscle, and fat that accumulates around the eyes with age, causing sagging and the appearance of bags under the eyes.
As we get older, our skin loses its elasticity and the eyelids are no exception. As they stretch, creating excess skin, and the muscles that support them weaken, excess fat can start to collect above and below the eyelids, causing drooping eyebrows and upper eyelids and bags under the eyes.
If this excess fat and skin prevents your eyes from opening fully, it can interfere with your peripheral vision, meaning that blepharoplasty may be done to improve vision. However, most cases (particularly operations on the lower eyelids) are performed purely for cosmetic reasons, as the removal of bags and dark circles has the effect of rejuvenating the face.
There are two ways to perform this surgery:
External route: A small cut is made under the eyelashes allowing the surgeon to remove excess skin, muscle, and fat. It is then sealed by a very fine suture that facilitates skin tightening.
Internal route: A small incision is made in the inner part of the lower eyelid, through which fat is extracted. Some surgeons do not even use a suture to close the incision, since this tissue heals easily by itself. The eyes are protected by an orbital metallic strip, which is inserted after the patient is under anaesthesia (local or general, depending on whether the blepharoplasty is part of a longer procedure).
The duration of the surgery is usually between 30 minutes and one hour, depending on the number of eyelids that will be operated on.
Before the blepharoplasty procedure, you will meet with an ophthalmologist and/or plastic surgeon, who will take your medical history and discuss your expectations with you. You will also have to undergo a physical examination, an eye test, and photos will be taken of your eye(s). Smokers will have to stop smoking several weeks before the operation.
Once the surgery is completed, an ointment will be applied to the eyes to lubricate them and in some cases, a soft bandage.
Patients may experience blurred or double vision, excessive production of tears, hypersensitivity to light, discomfort or pain, and some swelling and bruising for a short while after a blepharoplasty.
Your doctor may suggest that you take steps such as sleeping with your head elevated higher than your chest for a few days and using cold compresses on your eyes in order to reduce inflammation and bruising.
You will be informed if you are required to apply eye drops to keep your eyes hydrated. Oedema and bruising will gradually diminish until it disappears completely and you will begin to look and feel much better.
The purpose of body remodelling is to shape the silhouette, either by reducing cellulite or by attenuating flaccidity in a particular area. It is a treatment that can be done with or without surgery. It is performed under local anaesthesia and the patient can return to normal life the day after the procedure. The most common areas to be treated are the abdomen, waist, knees, inner thighs and the “love handles”.
Botulinum toxin, more commonly known as Botox™, is a neurotoxin that is used to treat various medical conditions. The toxin is actually released by the microbe that causes botulism (a type of food poisoning). It is also used as a cosmetic treatment and is administered via injection. Botox™ was the first drug developed to use botulinum toxin, but others have also been developed.
The most common uses for botulinum toxin are:
Botulinum toxin acts by temporarily paralysing certain muscles, for example, when used for facial muscles this smoothens their appearance. This also has the added benefit of preventing certain facial expressions, such as wrinkling your forehead which acts as an anti-ageing measure. Botulinum toxin injections weaken and paralyze certain muscles, blocking some nerves. They are injected with thin needles and the number you receive in a treatment session will depend on what they are being used for.
The effects of the injection are not immediate, they begin to reveal after three or four days have elapsed, depending on each patient. The results can be highly satisfactory. In addition, depending on the patient, the effect of botulinum toxin can last between four and eight months; so, to keep the same look regular treatments would be required.
Pregnant or breastfeeding patients cannot undergo a botulinum toxin treatment. Although the injections are not too painful, some patients will prefer to have the skin numbed beforehand using topical anaesthesia.
You can usually resume normal activities the same day as your treatment. You should avoid rubbing or massaging the treated area as this can move the toxin to other areas within the surrounding skin and muscle.
Possible side effects of botulinum toxin injections include:
Arm lift, also called brachioplasty, is the surgical procedure intended to eliminate unsightly excess skin in the arms, making them smoother and firmer while improving their appearance. In mild cases, the arm lift can be performed with less-invasive techniques and with local anaesthesia; in more advanced cases, surgery under general anaesthesia may be required.
With ageing, particularly from the age of 40, the skin starts becoming flabby, especially in women. Arms are a part of the body in which flabbiness is highly visible and many women develop a complex about it. Several degrees of flabbiness in arm contours can be distinguished, and the specialist in Plastic, Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery uses different techniques for each degree.
Brachioplasty involves making an incision in the inside of the upper arm, in order to eliminate excess skin. In the cases that are more serious, it may even be necessary to make an incision from the armpit to the elbow, always on the inside of the arm. Via this incision, all excess skin is removed. In cases in which the patient wants to remove excess fat from his arms, this intervention may be combined with liposuction. Brachioplasty usually takes around 2 hours.
During the pre-surgery consultation, you will undergo an evaluation, the results of which will be taken into account in the specific instructions given to you about how to prepare for surgery: whether you have to stop smoking, take iron supplements etc.
In the first few days after the brachioplasty, it is normal for your arms to feel more tender and be swollen; they revert to normal over time. You can resume your normal routine in around 15 days, and the final result will be visible after a few months. The result of the brachioplasty is permanent and leaves no visible scars.
Women with breast asymmetry have breasts that are different in shape, position or size. In fact, the great majority of women have mild breast asymmetry. However, when the asymmetry is significant, it may adversely affect the woman’s body image, her self-esteem and confidence.
Breast asymmetry can be classified into three types:
Anisomastia: a significant difference in the volume and size of the breasts.
Anisothelia: a difference between the nipples and areolas.
Combined asymmetry: anisomastia and anisothelia.
The symptoms of breast asymmetry are essentially aesthetic, manifesting as a difference in, for example, shape, size, developmental stage or fat percentage. In the most serious cases, there may even be a difference in osteomuscular structure or the breasts are completely different.
Significant breast asymmetry has several possible causes: it may be linked to a breast disease, a developmental problem, a hormonal problem, an unknown syndrome, an injury or periods of significant bodily change such as pregnancy or breastfeeding.
One of the diseases linked to breast asymmetry is breast cancer. Hence, all women with breast asymmetry are advised to perform breast self-examination to detect any warning signs in a timely manner.
Breast asymmetry appears while the breasts are developing during puberty. It cannot be prevented, except if it occurs as a secondary effect of a growth disorder that is diagnosed early. There are no measures you can take to prevent breast asymmetry.
The only solution to breast asymmetry is plastic, aesthetic and reconstructive surgery. The surgical techniques used depend on the surgeon and on the patient’s characteristics. However in many cases, breast augmentation, breast reduction or a combination of both will be done.
Breast augmentation or mammoplasty is a surgical procedure aimed at increasing the size and volume of the breasts. Normally, surgery is recommended with implants in both breasts to make them more symmetrical. A breast enlargement operation is performed by making a small incision around the areola or in the fold under the breast or armpit. Through the incisions on each breast, breast tissue is lifted and breast implants are inserted under the chest muscle. The implants can be silicone or saline implants and they come in various shapes, generally round, oval or anatomical. Currently, there are prostheses with a rough textured surface to provide a more natural look. The incision scar for breast surgery is practically invisible.
Mastopexy, or breast lift, is a form of plastic surgery that raises sagging breasts in order to correct ptosis. Throughout a woman’s life, her breasts will naturally sag as she ages, as breasts lack muscle tissue, meaning they cannot be strengthened. While it is not necessary to correct natural sagging, some women choose to in order to restore volume and fullness to the breasts.
Mastopexy is performed to correct sagging breasts, which can occur as a result of gravitational pull, ageing (as fat and tissue decrease in the breasts), pregnancy, or weight loss. Smoking and sunburn can also affect the elasticity of the breasts. Sagging can occur in both large and small breasts. While sagging breasts do not affect physical health, they may affect self-esteem, and as a result women may wish to have the ptosis corrected.
During the procedure, your surgeon makes several cuts on the breasts, depending on the technique that they are using. Skin can be removed from around the areola, and from under the breasts, or only one area. The breast is then reshaped, making it ‘tighter’, and the nipples are repositioned, with the areola being reshaped on some occasions to fit the new breast size.
Sometimes breast implants can be inserted during the same procedure, in order to perform a breast uplift and enlargement.
At consultations before your surgery, your surgeon will assess your breasts and take photographs for records. They will assess the size and position of your nipples and mark where the cuts will be made. They will discuss what you want to achieve from the procedure in-depth.
Before undergoing a mastopexy, your surgeon will explain what you must do in preparation. If you smoke, you will be asked to stop at least six weeks before the operation, as smoking increases the risk of infection and slows recovery.
You will be advised not to eat or drink anything for about six hours before the operation. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia.
After surgery, you’ll need to:
Your surgeon will also give you advice on aftercare and how to clean the wound. Speak to your specialist if you have any questions or worries after the procedure.
Breast reduction is a surgical procedure to reduce the size of the breasts. The operation is performed under general anaesthesia by a specialist in plastic, aesthetic and reconstructive surgery.
Breast reduction may be done for aesthetic reasons, in women who feel that the size of their breasts is not proportional or in harmony with the rest of their body. However, in many women, the procedure also alleviates neck and back pain caused by the excess weight.
The plastic surgeon will recommend the most suitable breast reduction technique for you. However the operation usually involves making incisions around the areola to remove excess fat, skin and breast tissue and to shape the whole breast to achieve the desired position and size. This results in smaller, firmer breasts that are less prone to sagging. For an optimal outcome, a mastopexy (breast lift) is always performed as part of breast reduction surgery.
Before surgery, a medical examination is necessary to determine whether you can undergo surgery under general anaesthesia. If you are a smoker, you will have to stop smoking from at least 4 weeks before surgery. You may also have to stop taking certain medications.
After the operation, you may have to stay in hospital overnight, possibly longer. Recovery at home can take 1 to 2 weeks, after which you can gradually resume your usual routine. Breast pain during recovery is normal, so painkillers are usually administered. Oedema and mild bleeding may also occur. During recovery, you will have to avoid lifting, driving, exercise and sunbathing. Furthermore, you will have to sleep with your head and back elevated.
There are many types of breast surgery, including reconstructive surgery, augmentation (breast implants), and reduction. Undergoing surgery is a major decision which should be reflected upon and discussed in detail with a specialist before surgery is decided upon. People may seek cosmetic breast surgery for many reasons, and nowadays there are many options to choose from, meaning the procedure can be truly tailored to the patient.
Also known as a forehead lift, or browplasty, this treatment is to combat sagging brows, which can give the face an older or tired look. The surgery involves an overnight stay in hospital.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition which causes numbness, tingling, or pain in the hand. It is a common condition which occurs due to compression of the median nerve in the wrist, which runs down the carpal tunnel, a narrow passage on the side of the wrist. The nerve controls movement in the thumb, and fingers except the little finger.
Carpal tunnel symptoms normally progress over time, and do not come on suddenly. Usually symptoms start with numbness or tingling in the fingers (except the little finger, controlled by a different nerve) or thumb, which comes and goes. Symptoms can also include pain in the fingers, or even pain in the arm occurring between the hand and elbow. Sometimes symptoms become more apparent at night.
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the carpal tunnel inside the wrist swells and compresses, or squeezes the median nerve. There are certain risk factors, including being overweight, having another illness such as diabetes or arthritis, and doing a job or having a hobby which involves repeatedly bending the wrist or gripping objects hard. Some women also develop carpal tunnel syndrome during pregnancy.
Some measures can be taken to help prevent carpal tunnel syndrome from developing. Firstly, you can take care of your health in general, by maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, and regularly exercising. You should also exercise your arm, hand, and finger muscles to keep them strong.
Try to avoid activities which place repeated pressure in the same area, and move your hand and wrist in a way that spreads the pressure over a larger area. Regularly switch hands and take breaks if performing tasks which involve a repetitive motion.
Carpal tunnel syndrome can often be treated at home, as it clears up naturally in a few months, especially if you have it while pregnant. Some recommendations include:
If your symptoms get worse or do not go away, make an appointment to see your doctor. They may prescribe medication, usually in the form of steroid injections, or in more serious cases where carpal tunnel does not go away, they may refer you on to a specialist for surgery.
Surgery usually cures carpal tunnel syndrome, and is done as a day case procedure. After surgery, the hand and wrist will recover after about a period of a month.
Cysts are closed sacs in the body’s tissue that may be filled with fluid, air, or other substances. They have a membrane, or “shell”, to divide them from the surrounding tissue, and the cells that make up this membrane are abnormal compared to the surrounding cells.
Cysts can appear almost anywhere on the body, including on bones, organs, and the skin. There are hundreds or types of cyst and many possible causes.
Most cysts are benign and some resolve on their own; others may require surgical removal and a small proportion are cancerous.
There are many types of cyst, including:
The vast majority of cysts are benign (non-cancerous) and cause few problems for the patients. Many cysts simply go away on their own. However, if a cyst fails to resolve by itself, if it is causing particular discomfort or pain, or if its size and appearance bother the patient, it may require surgical removal, although this may also depend on the location of the cyst in the patient’s body.
If a cyst becomes infected, it can become sore and red, and may develop into an abscess (filled with pus).
A small proportion of cysts are cancerous, with the sac being formed by the body as an immune response to try to contain the cancerous cells and prevent them from spreading. However, if the cancer already has its own blood supply, the cyst will be ineffective. It is important to have any cyst that does not disappear quickly checked out by a doctor and monitored to make sure it is not cancerous.
Cysts on the skin or close to it may be visible as lumps on the body. Cysts on the internal organs may be more difficult to spot, unless they cause symptoms such as pain in that area or affect the function of the organ. For example, kidney cysts caused by polycystic kidney disease (PKD) can lead to frequent urination or blood in the urine.
A number of things can lead to cysts, including blocked ducts or glands, infections, inherited conditions, chronic inflammation, parasites, injuries, and tumours.
The treatment will depend on the type, size, and location of the cyst. Some common treatments include:
Cysts can be treated by doctors and surgeons from a number of different specialties, depending on the type and location of the cyst. For example, sebaceous cysts and other cysts affecting the skin may be treated by a dermatologist, while ovarian cysts may be treated by an obstetrician/gynaecologist.
De Quervain syndrome is an inflammation of the tendon sheath (a membrane encasing the joints in the human body) of the tendons that control thumb. This condition causes your thumb to thicken and the tendon sheath to shrink, limiting your articular motion and leading to overall pain in your hand and wrist.
The outlook for this condition is good, unless you neglect it. In this case, you could suffer from trapeziometacarpal osteoarthritis, which is a type of arthritis affecting the base of the thumb.
The main symptom of De Quervain syndrome is pain radiating to the wrist, forearm and thumb areas. You may also notice some swelling.
You will need to do the Finkelstein’s test, which can assess how much pain you are in. During this test you will be asked to close your hand in a fist, clenching your fingers above the thumb and moving your wrist towards your little finger. An ultrasound of your hand can be helpful to determine if there’s any inflammation of the tendons, which could be putting a strain on the synovial sheath.
The main causes for this condition can be associated with the following risk factors:
This condition can be prevented by changing your habits and paying more attention to the onset of the inflammation.
De Quervain syndrome can be treated by following some rules:
For an accurate diagnosis and treatment of De Quervain syndrome, you should see an orthopaedic surgeon.
Dermal fillers are one of the most popular treatments used in cosmetic surgery in this day and age, due to the pleasing results they offer without the need to undergo a surgical intervention. The results are achieved by non-invasive techniques, with no risks or secondary effects.
The fillers are used to eliminate wrinkles and deep facial folds, volume replenishment or simply to rejuvenate and revitalise the skin. The infiltrations consist of hyaluronic acid, polycaprolactone threads, polylactic acid, calcium hydroxyapatite and tricalcium phosphate, collagen or fat fillers.
All fillers are applied under local anaesthesia, and can be applied as a complement to other treatments, such as facial surgery or botulinum toxin.
Dermal fillers are used to rejuvenate and revitalise the skin on the face. The different types of infiltrations help skin recover its natural feel and also restore aging signs, this is achieved by recovering lost volume, highlighting cheeks or cheekbones, and end with wrinkles and facial folds.
The fillers help to reduce the loss of tissue elasticity that manifest as a consequence of aging by ending the sensation of sagging skin, loosened skin and lack of facial skin firmness.
There are various techniques using different filling material infiltrations, which are used depending on the area to be treated, such as the type of wrinkle, the location or the depth.
Before undergoing this treatment, your doctor will explain exactly what is involved and set adequate expectations. There is no specific preparation required.
Dermal fillers are also popular as they pose minimal risk, and the main concern after the procedure is the local inflammation reactions that can follow-up after the treatment, such as irritation or pressure. However, these symptoms are only temporary.
Dupuytren's contracture is a chronic condition of the hand that progressively causes one or more fingers to become bent in a permanent position (usually the ring finger followed by the little finger, heart and index fingers), restricting function in the hand.
The face lift, or facial rejuvenation surgery, is an intervention that corrects the most visible signs of facial ageing, by tightening facial muscles, reducing fat, redistributing skin and eliminating excess tissue. This intervention is usually done under general anaesthesia.
There are various types of face lift, according to the areas of the face treated: upper face lift, which elevates sagging brows and eliminates forehead wrinkles; middle face lift, which eliminates fat that has accumulated in the cheekbones and lifts the cheeks; and lower face lift, which reduces fat along the jawline and neck (so-called double chin).
Lax and sagging skin is a clear sign of the passage of time and is particularly visible in the face; in many patients, this can give rise to a complex. Hence, the aim of a complete face lift is to reduce laxity and to restructure the affected areas.
The procedure is generally carried out by making incisions behind the hairline and behind the earlobe, continuing towards the nape of the neck if necessary, so that scars remain camouflaged. Via these incisions, skin is stretched and sectioned, leaving the face looking firmer and more youthful.
Before the face lift, you must follow some important instructions: stop smoking at least 15 days before the operation; for the intervention itself, do not wear contact lenses or make-up and make sure your skin is clean and well hydrated. Furthermore, at the pre-surgery consultation, you will have to tell the surgeon about any medications you are taking and any allergies you have, because more preparation might be necessary.
Patients normally leave the clinic 24 hours after the intervention; however this will depend on your evolution and on the surgeon’s recommendation. In the first few days after the intervention, it is recommended to sleep on two pillows in order to reduce the swelling and to avoid drinking hot drinks or chewing too much, so that the stitches are not affected. The swelling and haematomas will disappear over the first few days.
A ganglion cyst is a benign but painful growth, usually on the hand or wrist. The pain often comes on at night, or after constant use of the hand.
Ganglion cysts can vary in size, growing up to three centimetres wide. While the position of the cyst doesn’t tend to change, the size may fluctuate over time, and some go away entirely without treatment.
As previously mentioned, ganglion cysts sometimes go away on their own. If the cyst persists, treatment may be recommended to reduce the size or attempt to remove it completely. Unfortunately if the cyst is removed there is still a chance that it will come back, and you may need further treatment.
Cysts usually form a visible nodule, although in some cases if the cysts are small they may not be noticeable.
Many of them have no symptoms, but if they do press on a nerve, it can cause pain, tingling and muscle weakness.
Usually a ganglion cyst can be diagnosed by your GP with a physical examination. They may use a syringe to draw out fluid from the cyst. In some cases, they might refer you for an ultrasound or MRI to look at the inside of the lump and rule out other potential causes.
The cause of ganglion cysts is unknown. They have been found to be more common in young people between the ages of 15 and 40 and to develop more in women. It is also more likely to be developed by people who use and overload the wrist. People who have arthritis may develop them more easily.
At the moment it is not clear how to prevent ganglion cysts. The best thing to do is to see you doctor early on if you notice anything unusual.
For many people, treatment will not be necessary especially if there is no associated pain. The main job of the GP will be to reassure you that the lump is not caused by anything more serious.
However, if the cyst is causing you pain the GP may recommend treatment. The two main forms of treatment for ganglion cysts are:
Surgery is a more complex treatment and may involve putting your hand in a splint for several days afterwards. However, it tends to result in fewer recurrences of the cyst compared to aspiration.
Gynaecomastia, occasionally referred to as ‘man boobs’, is the medical term for enlarged male breasts. It is a common hormonal disorder that only affects males, making their breasts larger than normal due to an excess quantity of male breast tissue. It usually occurs more in teenage boys and older men.
The extent of gynaecomastia symptoms varies from person to person. Some males find they have a small amount of excess breast tissue around their nipples, whilst others may have noticeably larger male breasts. In some cases, gynaecomastia may cause discomfort or tenderness in the breasts.
There are several causes of gynaecomastia. One of the main causes is believed to be hormone imbalance, when more oestrogen is produced than normal and less testosterone. Oestrogen causes male tissue to grow at an abnormal rate. Although all males produce a certain amount of oestrogen, they also produce bigger quantities of testosterone which prevents the growth of breast tissue. In some cases, the reason for this hormonal balance is not known.
Obesity can also cause gynaecomastia, as being overweight may increase oestrogen production making the breasts larger. For this reason, patients who have dieted and done exercise to lose weight may find that they still have enlarged breasts.
Gynaecomastia in newborn babies occurs due to oestrogen passing from the mother through the placenta and to the baby. The breasts usually return to a normal size a few weeks after the baby’s birth. During puberty, some male adolescents may also find that their breasts grow as their hormone levels vary, but this usually stabilises as they grow older. Gynaecomastia in older men is caused by decreased production of testosterone. As older men often have more body fat, their oestrogen production increases thus causing the breasts to enlarge.
Other possible causes of gynaecomastia include drinking too much alcohol, and consuming illegal drugs or prescribed medications, among others.
Although the condition is not always avoidable, there are some measures one can take in order to prevent gynaecomastia. These include following a proper diet, exercising, drinking less alcohol, avoiding certain drugs and medications such as steroids and marijuana (which has been linked to increased levels of oestrogen production).
In some cases, treatment for gynaecomastia may be recommended. Gynaecomastia treatment includes breast reduction surgery to remove the excess male breast tissue, or medication aimed at correcting the hormonal imbalance behind enlarged male breasts.
The most common hand problems include:
Where there is a condition of the hand, the most common symptoms are:
The hands suffer, to a large extent, from wear and tear, which happens earlier in men than in women. Other causes of hand pathologies include:
Hand pathologies can be prevented by regular exercises that relax the joints at times of constant work. These exercises are based on the movement of the wrist and the stretching of the fingers, all of them with the purpose of relaxing the hand, getting rid of the stiffness and making the hands more flexible. By following a diet rich in calcium, vitamin D and omega 3, you can also help to keep the bones and joints healthy.
The treatment for the hand will depend on the ailment, but all treatments are aimed at restoring functionality. Some injuries can be treated with rest and cessation of activity, but some fractures and diseases that cause limb deformities will require surgery.
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition, resulting in join pain, stiffness, and swelling. It can affect any joint in the body, including those in the hand. It most commonly occurs in the wrist, fingertips (DIP joint), middle knuckle (PIP joint), and the basilar joint (which connects the thumb and wrist).
Osteoarthritis is where the cartilage that cushions the bones at the joints wears away, which causes the bones to rub against one another, leading to inflammation, stiffness and pain.
The symptoms of osteoarthritis include:
Osteoarthritis of the hand occurs due to gradual wear and tear of the joint, which results in the cartilage wearing away. The cartilage is responsible for cushioning the bones and allowing smooth movement. Without it, the bones rub together, and movement becomes stiff. The exact cause of the initial deterioration is unknown.
More women develop osteoarthritis than men. Patients born with defective cartilage or malformed joints are also at increased risk. Other risk factors include:
Osteoarthritis is a progressive disease, meaning there is no cure, and it will continue to get worse over time. However, it can be managed and its symptoms can be treated with a number of different methods:
A hand fracture, or broken hand, affects one or more of the bones found in the hand. It occurs when the bone(s) break or crack, often as the result of a fall or through sporting activity. A fracture can be simple, involving only a few fragments of bone, or it can be more complex, involving multiple fragments. Fractures can also be closed, meaning there is no break in the skin, or compound (open), where the skin breaks over the fracture.
A blow to the wrist or hand, or an injury crushing the hand can result in fractures and breaks in the bones. Fractures are commonly caused by falls, particularly onto an outstretched hand when trying to break the fall. Contact sports can be a cause of such falls, along with sports like skiing, skating, or snowboarding. Fractures can also be caused by trauma to the hand in high-impact situations like a car crash.
A broken wrist or hand can cause the following symptoms, which are usually immediate, and require urgent medical attention:
Playing contact sports or engaging in high-impact activities can increase your risk of breaking a bone. Some particularly high-risk sports include hockey, rugby, football, skating, trampolining, horseback riding, skiing, and skateboarding. It is impossible to prevent fractures, but you can try to protect your bones as best as you can by doing strengthening exercises, wearing a wrist guard, and avoiding situations which might cause a fall, such as walking on slippery surfaces.
To diagnose a broken or fractured hand, X-rays are usually taken, along with a physical exam done by a healthcare professional. There are various methods of treating a broken hand, and the treatment depends on the severity of the fracture. Often the doctor first moves and manipulates the pieces of bone and fragments back into their correct position, frequently done under anaesthetic. Treatment can then consist of:
Fractures can take several months to heal, and over this time your progress will be monitored, in case a different course of treatment is deemed necessary.
There are many different types of hand injuries, most of which occur due to trauma, but some also occur due to over-exertion or compression. Injuries can occur to the bones, muscles, nerves, ligaments, and skin of the hand, wrist and fingers, and different treatments are needed for different injuries. Some common types of sudden hand injury include:
Some common types of overuse injury are:
Different injuries cause different symptoms. Most traumatic injuries will cause pain, bruising, and often swelling.
Fractures and breaks often limit the hand’s range of movement, and cause weakness. They may also be accompanied by bleeding or numbness, and severe cases can cause deformity.
Lacerations are characterised by bleeding, which in turn can cause weakness and pallor, while burns can cause redness, blistering, black areas of tissue, discolouration, and alterations or deformities of the skin, depending on the severity.
Overuse injuries typically result in pain and soreness, and may also lead to numbness, tingling, and weakness.
Hand injuries can either be caused by some sort of trauma or by overuse.
The most common cause is blunt trauma, resulting in injuries like breaks, fractures, sprains, and dislocations. Overuse injuries are caused by repetitive tasks or by over-exertion.
Contact sports, falls, fights, and strenuous tasks all carry the risk of injuring your hands. Sports that involve using the hands for weight-bearing (such as gymnastics) or for holding equipment (such as ski poles) can also cause injury. Nerve injuries, such as carpal tunnel can be caused by repetitive motions, such as typing on your computer.
Lacerations are also very common, and are usually caused by contact with a sharp object, while burns are caused by excessive heat or fire.
The treatment depends on the type, location and severity of the injury. Some injuries may heal on their own, while others may need help in the form of a cast, splint, bandage, or physical therapy. If more conservative treatments don’t work, your doctor may recommend surgery.
If the injury is severe, surgery may be required immediately. Serious breaks, fractures, laceration and burns require immediate medical attention, and if a crushing injury causes compartment syndrome, this too is an emergency.
Hand nerves surgery includes various surgical procedures to restore hand function without altering their aesthetic appeal. It can be done due to many reasons, including injuries in the hand, rheumatic changes in the structures of the hand, congenital deformities (present at birth) and infections. These include carpal tunnel syndrome and Dupuytren’s contracture. Therefore, depending on the cause of the problem, you can perform skin grafts, immobilisation of a fractured bone, tendon repair, joint replacement, relocation, surgical drainage, fasciotomy and repair of nerves in the hand (ulnar, median and radial). Damage to these nerves can cause decreased ability to move the hand and sensitivity.
Hand surgery may be performed for various reasons, including infection to the hand, injury to the hand, or to correct long-term conditions affecting the hand. Surgery may be done on different areas of the hand, and it can be advised to correct either the bones or soft tissues in the hand. Hand surgery is usually performed by either a general surgeon, an orthopaedic surgeon, or a plastic surgeon.
Hand surgery is often performed to correct the following conditions:
Surgery on the hand varies depending on the type of condition it is attempting to correct. Many surgeries are performed as minor day case operations, meaning the patient can leave the hospital on the same day the operation is performed. Some operations are performed under local anaesthetic, meaning the patient is awake. Day-case operations are usually preferred as they allow for quicker healing time.
Surgery may also be accompanied with physiotherapy or visits to a specialist who will show the patient how to strengthen their hand and monitor movement and function. Depending on the surgery, a splint may also be advised to help along the healing process. Healthcare providers will schedule follow-up appointments to check progress. In some cases stitches may need removing. Depending on the surgery, it can take around a month or longer to fully heal and be back to normal.
Before any type of surgery, discuss the procedure and its potential risks with your surgeon. Any type of surgery, even minimally invasive, carries risks, and it is important to be aware of what could happen. Ask your doctor, surgeon or healthcare provider to explain anything that you do not understand before surgery. Your general health will also be checked to make sure you will not have any problems going under a general anaesthetic, should this be used during the procedure.
Before going for surgery, plan your visit to the hospital, as you will have to do things one-handed afterwards. Think about the clothing you will wear, the route you will take, and if you need a friend to come help you with transport. Talk to your surgeon to be clear on the procedure and understand what is expected of you on the day.
Tendonitis is a common condition which happens when a tendon swells and becomes painful after an injury. Wrist tendonitis affects the tendons around the wrist joints, causing them to become inflamed and irritated. It usually affects one tendon in the wrist, but it may involve more.
Tendons connect muscles in the body to the bones, and tendons which are found in the wrist connect the muscles found in the forearm to the bones in the hand, and finger bones. There are various tendons surrounding the wrist, and any one of them can become inflamed and irritated, causing pain or discomfort when moving the wrist.
Usually patients complain that they feel pain in the wrist. They may also notice swelling, and the tendons may feel warmer than they usually do. Some redness may be apparent. Sometimes patients report that they feel a ‘grinding’ sensation from the affected tendons.
Hand and wrist problems usually occur through injury, general wear and tear, or overuse. Tendonitis can be caused by an injury, but more often it is caused through repetition of the same movement over a period of time. These movements can lead to overuse, which in turn can cause tendonitis.
Many cases of tendonitis heal over time with self-care and the proper home treatment, which aim to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Resting the wrist, supporting it with a bandage, and applying ice on the injury can help swelling to go down and help reduce pain. Taking painkillers can help with mild pain.
However, not all cases can be treated through lifestyle modifications and home treatments. In some circumstances, doctors may recommend specific medications, like anti-inflammatories or corticosteroids. Muscles and tendons also may need strengthening, and physiotherapy can help with this.
In more long-term or severe cases, surgery may be recommended to repair the tendon and remove the damaged tissue.
Like many wrist and hand injuries, tendonitis cannot really be prevented, but risks can be minimised by taking care of your body and avoiding movements or activities which can put strain on it.
To prevent tendonitis as far as is possible, make sure to warm up correctly when doing exercise, and stretch properly when cooling down. Avoid repetitive movements, and take breaks to minimise strain or overuse.
The purpose of inverted nipple correction surgery is to place inverted nipples, also called flat or umbilicated nipples, in their natural position: protruding, rather than retracted. This is a simple operation of short duration, and it can be performed under local anaesthesia.
In some women, the nipple does not point outwards, as it normally should. This abnormality becomes apparent after puberty and although there is no reason why it should be a health problem, many women find that it affects their self-image and confidence and so want to correct it. Although this abnormality primarily affects women, men may also have inverted or retracted nipples.
The abnormality has varying degrees of seriousness: it may be that the nipple inverts only occasionally; or it may be that the nipple is positioned inside the breast because the muscle filaments that should maintain the nipple in the correct position do not exist or are too short.
During corrective surgery for mild cases, an incision is made around the base of the umbilicated nipple, making it point outwards and separating it from the muscle filaments. In other more serious cases, the lactiferous ducts, through which milk passes during lactation, must be eliminated; the woman must take this into consideration when deciding whether to proceed with the intervention.
Before surgery, the breast must be examined in order to rule out a malignant process. Depending on the patient’s particular health situation, the surgeon may require that additional medical assessments be done before the intervention.
In most cases, the patient can return to their normal routine immediately after the operation. She only needs to avoid physical activity for 10 days after the operation.
Keloid scars are formed during the healing of a wound. In the process, too much scar tissue is formed and causes abnormal growth, which is usually large and red. Keloid scars and hypertrophic scars are different. These are less thick and deformed.
Labiaplasty is a surgery that involves remodelling and resizing the labia minora which are the flaps of skin on each side of the vaginal opening. This can either be performed for cosmetic purposes, but sometimes it is for functional reasons. In most cases, local anaesthesia is used for a labiaplasty procedure. Labiaplasty should not be performed on girls aged less than 18 years of age because the labia minora may still be growing and changing.
Women might choose to have a labiaplasty because they are self-conscious of the size and appearance of their labia minora. Some women’s labia minora can cause physical discomfort, as they are larger than average and can suffer from twisting or tugging, causing pain.
A labiaplasty can be performed with either local or general anaesthesia. During the procedure, the labia minora are shortened and reshaped, with any unwanted tissue cut away with either a scalpel or a laser. Incisions are closed with small, dissolvable stitches. A labiaplasty can take up to two hours and most patients are able to return home on the same day.
Before your surgery, it is important to follow your surgeon’s instructions about fasting and stopping any medications. It is also important to stop smoking in the months leading up to your surgery. On the morning of the surgery, you should carefully shave, as hair can be obstructing.
You can expect to have some soreness, swelling and slight bruising for up to two weeks. Some patients will find they need a few days off work to recover. Full healing can take up to two months, and during this time you will need to keep the area clean, avoid sexual intercourse, use sanitary towels rather than tampons and wear loose underwear and clothing. Over-the-counter painkillers can be taken to manage any pain as sitting and peeing can produce some discomfort.
Lip augmentation and reshaping consists of changing the appearance of the lips.
Before the procedure, a cream or localised cold is applied to the area to reduce sensitivity.
Lip augmentation is performed to add volume to the lips, to make them look more defined and firmer and to lift the corners of the mouth.
A filler is used to augment the lips. This may be hyaluronic acid, a substance that adds volume and stimulates the production of collagen, or fat extracted from the person himself/herself and then purified. Both types of filler give a natural, immediate effect when injected. However, as these substances are resorbable by the body, the effect will gradually diminish over time.
The procedure usually takes around 20 to 40 minutes and the results last from 6 months to a year. After this time, the procedure can be repeated. If a permanent lip augmentation is desired, then cheiloplasty is the best option. This involves different implant or grafting techniques (using the person’s own fat or other substances such as collagen or Gore-Tex) to increase the volume of the lips.
The specialist may recommend treating the area with a personalised combination of cosmetics a few days before the procedure.
There may be some slight inflammation (which can be treated with ice) or redness after the procedure, or you may notice nothing at all.
The following precautions should be taken after lip augmentation:
A lipoma is a benign lump that forms under the skin, usually made from fatty tissue. They usually grow slowly and are situated between the skin layer, and the muscle layer beneath.
Lipomas are more common in middle age, are usually painless, and most commonly appear on the upper back, shoulders and abdomen.
The cause of lipomas is unknown. It is believed that they may be genetic, so if your parents or other members of the family had lipomas, then you may also be prone to developing them. They can often appear after an injury, though the reason they form is unknown.
As previously mentioned, lipomas are usually painless, though can cause some pain if they press on nearby nerves. They appear as soft, doughy lumps ranging in size from around the size of a pea to as big as a grapefruit. The lumps may move slightly if pressed.
Although people of any age can develop lipomas, they are more prevalent in adults aged between 40 and 60 years of age.
People with the following conditions are more at risk of developing one or more lipomas:
Lipomas don’t usually cause any problems if left alone, however they can be treated if required.
The most common way of treating lipomas is to have them surgically removed. This can be done by either a dermatologist, or by a plastic surgeon.
Surgery involves making an incision to remove the fatty tissue, before suturing the opening. Though there is a risk that the lipoma may return, it is uncommon.
Another treatment option to reduce the size of the lipoma is liposuction, where a needle is used to remove some of the fat from within the lipoma.
Finally, steroid injections may be used to treat the lipoma. The steroid injection works to shrink the lipoma, though this treatment doesn’t completely remove the lipoma.
In plastic, aesthetic and reconstructive surgery, liposculpture is the operation that is performed to eliminate fat deposits located between skin and muscle. The purpose of the operation is to permanently redesign the contour of the body. It is performed in different areas of the body, most commonly the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, arms and jowls.
Liposculpture is usually performed under general anaesthesia. However, another option is non-surgical or non-invasive liposculpture, which does not require anaesthesia or, in some cases, requires only local anaesthesia.
It should be emphasised that this operation is not a surgical means of tackling obesity, becoming slimmer or losing weight. Rather, it is a way to directly eliminate localised fat.
Liposculpture is designed to eliminate accumulations of stubborn fat that are otherwise difficult to eliminate, even in patients who follow a healthy lifestyle with balanced diet and exercise. Hence, patients who undergo liposculpture are of normal weight or overweight.
Liposculpture involves making a few incisions measuring less than 1 cm. A cannula is introduced through the incisions and suction applied to remove the fat from the area. In some cases, the removed fat is reimplanted in other areas, such as the buttocks. The duration of the surgery will depend on which areas are treated and the volume of fat, but it is usually less than 4 hours.
If the patient is in good health, he/she does not need to undergo medical investigations before the liposculpture. If however the patient has a bleeding tendency, they will have to undergo medical investigations before liposculpture, to include heart rate and blood pressure measurements, and possibly blood tests.
The surgeon may recommend that the patient not take any anticoagulant medication for at least 10 days before the intervention. In addition, the specialist determines the most appropriate compression garment for the patient to wear after liposculpture.
In the post-operative period, the patient will have to rest for about three days, take antibiotic therapy and wear a compression bandage or compression garment. The garment must be worn for 2 to 4 weeks; however at day 4 or 5 the patient can resume his normal activities and at day 10 he can resume exercise in a gradual manner.
Liposuction often called ‘lipo’, is a fairly common cosmetic procedure aimed at removing unwanted body fat from certain parts of the body. There are various different types of liposuction, such as tumescent liposuction, ultrasound-assisted liposuction, and laser-assisted liposuction. Surgical liposuction is also referred to as liposculpture and may be carried out to remove excess body fat in combination with an abdominoplasty, or ‘tummy tuck’.
People may choose to undergo liposuction for a number of reasons all revolving around a general dissatisfaction about the shape of their body. Often, even after exercise and dieting, excess fat can remain in some places. Due to its immediate results, liposuction can greatly boost a person’s confidence. Liposuction may also be used on people who are not necessarily overweight but rather unhappy with their physical appearance. Other reasons to undergo liposuction include reducing fat production, improving one’s health, and stimulating collagen growth.
Liposuction involves sucking excess fat out through a tube. After marking the parts of the body to be treated, the surgeon then injects the area with medication and anaesthetic-containing solution that reduces blood loss as well as bruising and swelling. Fat cells are then broken up in order to make them easier to extract before a small incision is made and a suction tube is inserted. The tube is moved around the area in order to suck out the fat. After, excess fluid and blood is drained before the patient is stitched up and bandaged. The operation usually lasts around one to three hours, and is carried out using a general anaesthetic or epidural anaesthetic in lower areas of the body. The patient usually has to remain in hospital overnight.
In order to prepare for liposuction surgery, the patient may be recommended not to take specific medications, such as blood thinners, for at least two weeks before the operation. Liposuction preparation depends on each individual, and a specialist will provide advice on what to do beforehand.
After liposuction, the patient may have to take antibiotics in order to reduce the chances of infection. Compression bandages or an elasticated support corset are fitted in order to reduce bruising and swelling. These are worn for several weeks post-operation. In some cases, such as when a large area of fat is removed, some time off work may be necessary. If the patient had a general anaesthetic, they won’t be able to drive for a few days. Full recovery after liposuction surgery generally takes two weeks.
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that forms from the skin cells called melanocytes, which give the skin its pigment. This type of skin cancer can also be called malignant melanoma and is the most dangerous form of skin cancer, with a mortality rate of around 20% if the cancer goes undetected.
Melanoma is most often caused by over-exposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. It is more common in older people due to the cumulative effect of years of exposure to the sun, and is especially common in areas of the body that are more exposed to the sun such as the face, back of the neck, hands and arms. Due to this, melanoma is also more common in people with a fair complexion, and with people that have been sunburnt as a child.
Having said that, it is a myth that people with darker skin are not affected, as they also carry a risk if not protected from the sun. Where they commonly develop in areas that receive a lot of sun exposure in fair coloured skin, in darker skin types they more commonly develop on the soles of the feet, palms of the hand and in the finger nail beds, and can easily go unnoticed.
Melanoma can also be genetic, with around 5% of cases of melanoma thought to be genetically passed on.
Melanomas are often noticed by the person rather than diagnosed by a doctor. A sign of a melanoma is a mole that changes shape or size, or that the border of the outline changes and becomes more blurred.
Another symptom is when a new mole, or pigmented section of skin appears where there was nothing before.
The key for checking a mole to look for signs of melanoma is the ABCDE acronym for the characteristics of melanoma:
The treatment of the melanoma depends on the type of melanoma, the severity and the position on the body, and whether the cancer has spread.
Some of the options available to your doctor include surgery, with different methods available to remove the melanoma.
Radiotherapy may be considered if the cancer has spread, or it may be decided that a melanoma vaccine is the best option, which aims to kill the cells using the body’s own defence mechanisms. This form of treatment is still being developed.
If you are concerned you may have a melanoma, and would like to be diagnosed. Make an appointment with a specialist here: https://www.topdoctors.co.uk/melanoma
Moles are pigmented spots which appear on the skin. They can often appear during childhood or adolescence without a known cause. Most moles are nothing to worry about and only become a concern when they change colour, size, or shape. In some cases people prefer to have them removed for aesthetic reasons, but this is largely done through the private sector as the NHS do not offer cosmetic mole removal. It is also worth noting that moles may also fade or disappear over time, and sometimes can darken during pregnancy. If you see noticeable changes in a mole, it is always best to have it checked by your doctor or dermatologist.
Moles can be varied in size, shape, and colour. They can be flat or raised, and most moles are oval or round-shaped. They may also have a smooth or rough texture, and have hair growing from them. Moles should be checked out by a doctor if you notice the following:
Moles or nevus occur when melancocytes, the pigment-producing cells of the skin, grow in clusters. Exposure to the sun influences their appearance, shape and size. Those who are fair-skinned are more likely to develop moles.
Monitoring sun exposure can prevent the appearance of some types of mole.
The dermatologist should keep track of the patient's moles, checking all those which change colour and shape or cause pain, or itch or bleed. If any of these symptoms present, the dermatologist may suggest mole removal as a precaution, in order to prevent melanoma developing. This operation is performed on an outpatient basis.
Neck lift surgery is an aesthetic surgical intervention used to rejuvenate the neck, where wrinkles and excess skin usually form and some may wish to correct. This operation is performed under general anaesthetic or local anaesthetic with sedation.
Sagging and flaccidity of the skin are common with ageing. Ageing starts to visibly affect the neck area from around age 40 onwards, and, in some cases, as skin loses its firmness, this can become a source of insecurity for the patient. The results of neck lift surgery can be long-lasting and satisfactory, as they make the neck appear more youthful and smoother, while at the same time completely removing the flaccidity of the skin.
To carry out this operation, an incision is made on the back of the neck, just under the start of hairline, and another incision behind each ear (measuring about 5 cm). Then, through these incisions, the surgeon separates the skin from the neck muscles, tightening it to eliminate wrinkles, and removes the excess skin.
The preparation for neck lift surgery is similar to that of face lift surgery. Patients who smoke should avoid smoking for 1 or 2 months before the operation, and they should also eat light meals during the days before the surgery, avoiding saturated fats and alcohol. It is possible that the specialist surgeon may recommend also avoiding the use of painkillers containing acetylsalicylic acid and blood-thinning medicines in general.
After the neck lift surgery, the patient may have inflammation and oedemas that will remain for several days, during which time it is recommended that they sleep with their head and neck elevated. After the operation, a bandage will be applied which may be removed after 24 hours, replacing it with a support for at least 2 weeks. The final results can be seen after 3 to 6 months.
A non surgical nose job is a treatment that reshapes the nose without surgery, correcting irregularities in the profile of both the ridge and the nose tip, depending on the specific needs of the patient. It is important to note that this treatment is not suitable for all types of noses, as it cannot change the bone base, therefore it is not indicated for a very large nose and a very prominent ridge. For these cases there are other types of nose jobs that are more suitable, such as rhinoplasty, which is the nose surgery that corrects the functionality of the nose, and modify the bone or cartilage structures to adapt the nose to the face. Nasal remodelling is performed by microinjection of various fillers: if the nose is reshaped by applying hyaluronic acid in the precise points, the results will last nine months because this substance is reabsorbed and after this time the treatment must be repeated. When looking for a permanent result, Metacrill microinjections are applied.
Oculofacial plastic surgery is a medical speciality that focuses on surgery to the eyelids, brow, nose and tear duct system to treat disease, remove tumours, and restore the cosmetic appearance of the face.
There are very few oculofacial plastic surgeons in the world, concentrated in only a handful of clinics. Surgeons generally undergo specialist fellowship training learning specific surgical techniques to treat the delicate tissue around the eye.
Oculofacial plastic surgeons treat a wide range of conditions affecting the eyes and surrounding tissue, including:
This may include the treatment of the condition itself and reconstruction of the face after surgical treatment.
Oculofacial plastic surgeon can also carry out a range of procedures to improve the cosmetic appearance of the face and tackle the signs of ageing, focussing in particular on:
If you have a condition that is affecting the tissue around the eyes, the clinic may first perform some diagnostic procedures including tear production testing, ultrasound, visual field testing, and endoscopy. They may also refer you to a radiologist to carry out imaging tests such as a CT scan or MRI.
Problems affecting the tissue around the eyes can be complex, so making a diagnosis may involve a range of specialists including ophthalmologists, otolaryngologists, and oncologists.
When treating a condition or cosmetic issue, oculofacial plastic surgeons employ a number of surgical and non-surgical techniques including:
The precise treatment plan will depend on what condition you have. If you are treating a cosmetic issue, treatment might be combined with other kinds of plastic surgery to tackle other signs of facial ageing.
Otoplasty, which is also known as ear correction surgery or cosmetic ear surgery, is a surgical procedure to change the size, shape or position of the ears. Otoplasty is often associated with pinning ears back that appear as very protruding, so this is a common form of otoplasty carried out, but it is also known as pinnaplasty. Depending on the age of the patient, the intervention can be performed under general or local anaesthesia. Otoplasty can be carried out on children, but after the age of 5 years is recommended, as any younger and the ears will still be growing and developing. It is important to understand that otoplasty does not alter or affect your hearing, just the appearance of your ears.
Otoplasty will be considered if your ears stick out a lot, if they appear as very large in proportion to your head, if you need to correct previous ear surgery, or if your ears have been damaged due to injury or congenital malformations.
Otoplasty can usually be carried out with local anaesthetic and is performed by either an otolaryngologist (ENT surgeon) or a plastic surgeon. A small incision is made behind the ear to gain access to the ear cartilage. Next, small sections of cartilage and skin are removed, depending on what results are being aimed for. Once done, the ear is positioned into place using scoring and stitching techniques. The whole procedure takes up to two hours. Newer techniques use special clips placed under the skin to reshape and reposition the ears.
Once you have been deemed healthy and suitable for surgery, your surgeon will advise you on any fasting required, which medications have to be stopped and any other requirements for having otoplasty. You will not be able to drive home after surgery, so making alternative arrangements beforehand will be necessary.
Otoplasty is often carried out as a day-case procedure, meaning the patient can return home on the same day. You will have bandages around your ears after the procedure for protection. You may experience some itching and discomfort, but painkillers can manage this. It is important to avoid putting pressure on your ears, so try not to sleep on your side or rubbing your ears. Wearing loose-fitting collars is also advised for comfort. Bandages should be worn during the day for the first few days, and afterwards just when sleeping for a couple of weeks. You should avoid swimming and other sports for several weeks to protect your ears. Stitches can be removed after 5-10 days, children can usually return to school after 1-2 weeks. Return to normal activities, such as swimming and contact sports can resume after 12 weeks.
Pinnaplasty is plastic surgery to correct prominence or asymmetry of the ears. It is an outpatient procedure and takes about an hour.
A rhinoplasty, more commonly referred to as a ‘nose job’, is an operation performed to change the shape or size of the nose, whether for aesthetic or functional purposes (functional rhinoplasty).
Rhinoplasty may be performed on those who are unhappy with the appearance of their nose, those who have experienced trauma to the nose, or on those who have functional problems (e.g breathing/sinus difficulties). The rhinoplasty procedure can improve the aesthetics and function of the nose, depending on the goal the patient wants to achieve.
Rhinoplasty can make the nose smaller, larger, change its shape, or change the angle that exists between the nose and the top lip.
Currently, two types of surgery are generally performed:
The operation is carried out under general anaesthetic, meaning you won’t be awake for the surgery. The procedure can take anything from one hour and a half to three hours. You may also need to stay in hospital or at the clinic overnight, or for a couple of days.
Before the operation, you will need to attend an initial consultation with your surgeon. This may be either a facial plastic surgeon (an ENT surgeon, who has trained extensively in the anatomy of the face and the functionality of the nose) or a plastic surgeon (who performs various types of plastic surgery on the body). They will conduct a thorough examination, discuss your expectations with you, and determine if you are eligible for surgery.
Before your operation, if you decide to go ahead, the surgeon will take pictures in order to provide a photo analysis and discuss expected outcomes. They will also explain the risks of the surgery in detail, and ask you to sign a disclosure form.
After the operation, you’ll have to take about two weeks off work in order to recover. However, results of the procedure may not be visible until a few months later. Immediately after the procedure, and a short stay in the clinic, arrange for a friend to take you home, as you will not be able to drive for a couple of days.
Your stitches can usually be removed after a week, if they are not the dissolvable kind. If you are wearing a splint, this may be able to be removed at this stage too. After three weeks, bruising and swelling should be significantly reduced. You can expect return to playing sports and higher intensity activity at about four to six weeks.
There will be some aftercare which you can follow at home with your doctor’s recommendation, including:
Your doctor can prescribe you pain medication such as paracetamol to help with any pain. You may experience nosebleeds for the first few days after surgery, and there will be some swelling and bruising which will go down after time.
Scars are marks left on the skin after a wound or injury has healed. Visible scars remain on the skin when the deeper layers of your skin has been injured. The vast majority of minor lesions, such as lacerations, cuts, abrasions or burns, will not leave a scar.
After a lesion or injury, the healing process consists of three phases: inflammation phase, proliferative phase and maturation phase.
Scar healing is a highly individual process which can be influenced by several factors, so you should not take into account only the size and severity of a wound.
For instance, age is really important: the older you are, the longer the wound healing process will be. However, even if you are in the age range of 10 to 30 years, an overproduction of connective tissue can compromise the wound healing process. Furthermore, people with a really pale or darker skin type may have more evident scars, as well as people suffering from a hormone imbalances, such as teenagers and pregnant women. The scar formation process is also influenced by the location of the wound: scars tend to form in parts of the body where the skin is tenser.
Should there be any complications after a wound, such as chronic inflammation (acne), the risk of getting a scar will be much higher.
Scars can be divided into hypertrophic scars, keloid scars and atrophic scars.
A second medical opinion is when you consult with a doctor that is not your regular doctor about a potential diagnosis and/or treatment plan. There is no legal right to a second opinion, however, it is rare for a doctor to refuse.
Patients may consider a second medical opinion if they are facing a new diagnosis or recommended treatment because sometimes this can feel confusing and a second opinion can put their mind at ease.
In addition, there are certain situations where a second medical opinion is sought after:
The aims of obtaining a second medical opinion are:
Possible disadvantages of seeking a second medical opinion include:
You can request a second medical opinion from your GP or consultant, but before doing so it is recommended that you ask for as much clarification and explanation about the initial diagnosis and treatment, before seeking a second opinion.
Obtaining a second medical opinion does not mean that the second doctor will then take over – if that is what the patient decides, then this needs to be agreed formally between doctors and hospitals.
Skin cancer is one of the most commonly occuring types of cancer. There are certain types of skin cancer. There are non-melanoma skin cancers which are a group of cancers that are slow-growing and develop on the upper layers of the skin. Basel cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer and start in the cells of the lower epidermis. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) accounts for around 20% of skin cancers and starts in the upper layers of the epidermis.
Melanoma skin cancer is more serious and can spread to other parts of the body.
Basal cell carcinoma:
Squamous cell carcinoma:
Melanomas will usually start with a change to normal skin or can develop on a mole already present.
You can use the ABCDE mole checklist to help determine if a mole has become a melanoma.
Non-melanoma skin cancers are caused by too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, which comes from the sun, as well as tanning beds.
There are also a number of risk factors that can increase the chances of non-melanoma developing:
Melanoma is caused by exposure to UV light from the sun or tanning beds. Melanomas are caused by very intense exposure to UV light, such as bad sunburn on holiday.
The following risk factors increase your chances of developing melanoma:
It is possible to reduce your chances of developing skin cancer by reducing exposure to sunlight and avoiding sunburn. You can do this by avoiding tanning beds, covering up outdoors and wearing high SPF sunscreen. You can also avoid the sun during the hottest part of the day. It is also important to check your skin regularly and notice any changes as early diagnosis increased the chances of treatment.
Non-melanoma skin cancer can be treated firstly by surgically removing the cancerous tumour and surrounding skin. Non-melanoma skin cancer can also be removed to using cryotherapy (freezing). They can also be treated with radiotherapy and photodynamic therapy (PDT). Treatment option depends on the size of the skin cancer, the type and the location. Non-melanoma skin cancers are often treated successfully as the risk of the cancer spreading to other parts of the body is much lower than with melanomas.
Melanoma skin cancer is treated surgically most of the time, however, treatment depends on the circumstances of your diagnosis. Early detection and treatment can successfully treat melanoma. Advanced melanoma treatment aims to slow down the spread of the cancer and improve the symptoms. Melanoma can return once treated, so regular check-ups are essential.
Skin cancer is one of the most commonly occuring types of cancer. There are certain types of skin cancer. There are non-melanoma skin cancers which are a group of cancers that are slow-growing and develop on the upper layers of the skin. Basel cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common type of skin cancer and start in the cells of the lower epidermis. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) accounts for around 20% of skin cancers and starts in the upper layers of the epidermis.
Melanoma skin cancer is more serious and can spread to other parts of the body.
Skin cancer can occur anywhere on the body, and is more common on parts of the body exposed to sunlight more often, which the face certainly is. Although moles on the face are very common, many of which are harmless, some can become cancerous. Benign moles on the face are non-cancerous and have often been present for a long time.
Basal cell carcinoma:
Squamous cell carcinoma:
Melanomas will usually start with a change to normal skin or can develop on a mole already present.
You can use the ABCDE mole checklist to help determine if a mole has become a melanoma.
Non-melanoma skin cancers are caused by too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, which comes from the sun, as well as tanning beds.
There are also a number of risk factors that can increase the chances of non-melanoma developing:
Melanoma is caused by exposure to UV light from the sun or tanning beds. Melanomas are caused by very intense exposure to UV light, such as bad sunburn on holiday.
The following risk factors increase your chances of developing melanoma:
It is possible to reduce your chances of developing skin cancer by reducing exposure to sunlight and avoiding sunburn. You can do this by avoiding tanning beds, covering up outdoors and wearing high SPF sunscreen. You can also avoid the sun during the hottest part of the day. It is also important to check your skin regularly and notice any changes as early diagnosis increased the chances of treatment.
Non-melanoma skin cancer can be treated firstly by surgically removing the cancerous tumour and surrounding skin. Non-melanoma skin cancer can also be removed to using cryotherapy (freezing). They can also be treated with radiotherapy and photodynamic therapy (PDT). Treatment option depends on the size of the skin cancer, the type and the location. Non-melanoma skin cancers are often treated successfully as the risk of the cancer spreading to other parts of the body is much lower than with melanomas.
Melanoma skin cancer is treated surgically most of the time, however, treatment depends on the circumstances of your diagnosis. Early detection and treatment can successfully treat melanoma. Advanced melanoma treatment aims to slow down the spread of the cancer and improve the symptoms. Melanoma can return once treated, so regular check-ups are essential.
Skin lesions are abnormal lumps, bumps, ulcers, sores or coloured areas on the skin. There are two different categories: primary and secondary skin lesions. Primary skin lesions are present from birth or are acquired during a person’s lifetime. Secondary skin lesions appear as a result of irritated primary skin lesions. They occur if someone were to, for example, scratch a mole until it bleeds. Many different conditions such as acne, herpes simplex, allergic eczema and impetigo can cause a skin lesion.
The commonest cause of a skin lesion is an infection on or in the skin, such as a wart or the herpes simplex virus that causes cold sores and genital herpes. Some skin lesions are hereditary, such as moles and freckles. Other causes of a skin lesion can be an allergic reaction or conditions such as diabetes, which causes skin sensitivity.
The most common types are:
The commonest types of secondary skin lesions are:
A doctor will examine the skin lesion and ask if there any other symptoms. They may take samples of the skin, perform a biopsy or take a swab of the lesion, which is to be sent for analysis in a lab.
Treatment of skin lesions is determined by the underlying cause. Topical medications can help treat the inflammation and can stop pain, itching or burning. Some skin lesions, which may become infected, can be drained for relief. There are also home remedies that are recommended such as using lotions for relief from itching and absorbent powders if the skin lesions rub against clothes. Suspicious moles or lesions that may be precancerous are to be removed surgically.
Lesions can be cut out of the skin, frozen off or removed using heat, laser or light therapy. If a patient has a surgical procedure, it can take up to three weeks for the wound to heal. It takes a few weeks for a lesion to scab and comes off after having cryotherapy.
This is usually a type of skin cancer but squamous cells can also be found on some other parts of the body. When it presents as skin cancer it begins as a small nodule and can develop into a larger ulcer. It is more common in lighter skin tones which have had sun exposure, and it is also more common in later life.
Hand stiffness can involve a reduction in the overall range of movement in your hands, or greater difficulty within that range of movement. Stiffness might be constant or it might be worse at certain times of day. Depending on the cause of the stiffness, symptoms may worsen over time, stay the same, or improve.
Some of the main causes of hand stiffness include injuries, arthritis, and nerve conditions such as carpal tunnel. Rarer causes include Dupuytren’s contracture and scleroderma.
Sprains, bruises, fractures, and wounds are all injuries that can result in pain or stiffness in the hands. Tendonitis (inflammation of the tendons) is a common reaction to injury, and usually the stiffness should improve as the hand heals. In other cases, such as a rupture to a tendon, or a significant burn injury, there could be permanent damage to mobility.
One class of injury, known as repetitive strain injury, can cause pain and stiffness in the hands due to overuse. In this situation, it’s important to identify the activity that is causing the pain and try to reduce that activity. There are also a number of treatments a GP might offer, such as anti-inflammatory medication, a heat pack, or physiotherapy.
Finally, it is possible for the soft tissue in your hands to be damaged by infection. Many infections can be treated with antibiotics, so see a doctor if you’ve noticed a discolouration or swelling in your hands that isn’t going away.
Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are common causes of hand stiffness in older people. As well as stiffness you might experience join pain and swelling, and in the case of rheumatoid arthritis symptoms are often worse in the morning.
There are a number of treatments for arthritis. The exact treatment that is right for you will depend on what type of arthritis you have.
Carpal tunnel is a nerve condition which affects the hands and arms. The main symptoms are a tingling sensation and numbness but sometimes weakness and stiffness can occur. Symptoms often go away on their own or with treatment (e.g. wearing a wrist splint) but if they persist it is important to see a doctor.
Tendon injuries, also known as tendinopathies, happen when there is an overload that causes small fibres to tear. When the affected muscles or joints are put under pressure, it causes tendon inflammation which reduces blood flow and can lead to nerve compression. When there is a mild inflammation it is referred to as tendonitis. It is called tendinosis if there is tendon degeneration.
Tendon injuries are common in sports. Injury location will depend on the sport. Some common tendon injuries include:
Tendon injuries do not tend to be a serious condition, providing adequate treatment is given.
Tendon injuries may be:
The symptoms of tendon injuries vary according to their location. There are several common symptoms, including:
A physical examination is normally enough to identify the affected tendon and the seriousness of the injury. However, in some cases the specialist may carry out other tests to have a closer look, these may be an ultrasound or an MRI scan.
Some of the most common causes include:
There are different tips that can be followed to avoid this kind of injury. It is important to take care when lifting heavy loads to avoid pushing the tendon beyond its limit.
A massage or stretching after lifting a heavy load is one way to prevent a tendon injury.
Other things to bear in mind are:
Treatment tends to be conservative, and includes rest and anti-inflammatory measures, depending on the severity of the injury. This may include medications, nutritional supplements, dietary changes, using bandages and manual therapy.
The methods used will depend on the injury location, severity, and how long it has affected the patient. Although there are many different treatments, the most common ones are:
When treatment doesn’t work, surgery may be resorted to instead.
Tendon injuries are normally treated by a sports medicine specialist, an orthopaedic surgeon or a physiotherapist.
A thigh lift is a surgical procedure aimed at aesthetically improving the upper leg area by removing excess skin and giving it more firmness. This procedure is mainly carried out for people with a significant loss of volume in their legs and thighs, resulting in an excess of skin, for example, following extreme weight loss.
Depending on the desired outcome, there are several types of surgery: an inner thigh lift, a bilateral thigh lift or a mid-thigh lift.
Together with the specialist, you will decide on the most appropriate type of thigh lift for your particular case. You will also be given instructions that you should follow before the operation:
You must not engage in any physical exercise after the operation to avoid putting pressure on the sutures. After about three days your bandages and drains will be removed and you will be told what type of compression stockings to wear. Most of the discomfort will be treated with medication, although this will subsided after about a week. The sutures will be removed two weeks after the operation, and a few weeks later your legs will have recovered their normal appearance.
Trigger finger is a condition that affects the tendons that bend the fingers. When the tendon sheath is inflamed, it makes finger extension or flexion difficult. This can cause the fingers to lock or trigger suddenly. The medical term for it is tenosynovitis.
It is not common for trigger finger to spontaneously resolve. If it is not treated, it is likely to be a painful discomfort. If the finger gets trapped, it could cause permanent stiffness.
Trigger finger symptoms may start with discomfort at the base of the finger, which could cause inflammation and swelling. The most common symptoms are:
The diagnosis can normally be made based on the patients’ medical history and symptoms. A physical exam is normally carried out to assess the stiffness and sensitivity of the affected fingers. The doctor may choose to do an ultrasound to check the swelling or they may carry out specific tests if they think it may be related to a different condition.
There is no clear cause for this condition, but it is thought to be related to rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or diabetes. It is more common in women and people aged between 40 and 60 years old. People who regularly carry out activities that require repetitive phalange flexion and extension for long periods of time, or put intense external pressure on a finger, are more likely to be affected by trigger finger.
Tenosynovitis can only partially be prevented. If it is due to an underlying condition (rheumatoid arthritis for example) that causes thickening of the finger tendon sheaths and causes involuntary movements and pain, it should be treated before it causes trigger finger. It may also be caused by a tendon mechanical overload. Certain movements should be avoided, and exercises should be carried out to strengthen the tendons.
Recommendations include:
Trigger finger treatment normally involves alleviating tendon pressure and enabling finger movement without any discomfort. A splint or anti-inflammatory medications are often used. If these treatments don’t work, surgery may be resorted to.
Orthopaedic specialists are devoted to preventing, diagnosing, and treating musculoskeletal conditions such as trigger finger.
Tuberous breasts, also known as tubular breasts, are breasts which are tube-shaped instead of rounded and which have a larger space of separation between the breasts. The areolae are also usually large, and the lower part of the breast lacks development. There are various degrees of malformation.
The characteristics of tuberous breasts are:
Tuberous breasts are caused by the existence of a genetic alteration of the tissue that covers the mammary gland, which is abnormally rigid, preventing the harmonious development of the breasts during adolescence.
Tuberous breast surgery is performed to correct a malformation in the breasts which causes them to have a shape similar to tubes instead of developing a rounded shape.
The surgical technique used varies depending on the case, to give the bust volume and a more rounded shape, placing the areola and the nipple in the correct position. Generally, if it is a mild abnormality, it can be treated with the implantation of a prosthesis, without need for any complete glandular reshaping, as is the case in serious malformations. In these cases, the diameter of the areola would be reduced, and incisions would need to be made around it and/or at the base of the breast to relax the rigid area of the chest and to be able to redistribute the gland.
e-Consultation is a private messaging and video conference service that allows contact with leading specialists at the time you choose, from any place.
De Quervain’s syndrome can happen to anyone, but it appears that women are three times more susceptible to the condition than men. Symptoms include pain and swelling near the base of the thumb. Activities like pinching, grasping and wringing clothes can make the pain worse. Plastic surgeon Mr Oliver Harley tells us more about De Quervain’s and what happens to cause this condition.
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There are many treatment options for Dupuytren’s contracture, but the right treatment depends on the severity of the disease and whether or not you’re experiencing recurrence. We asked leading plastic surgeon Mr Oliver Harley to explain when treatment for Dupuytren’s contracture is needed and how the different treatment options compare.
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In the UK, more than 10 million people have arthritis or a similar condition affecting the joints. Everyone with arthritis in their fingers and hands will be affected differently, while some may not experience much discomfort, others may find it difficult to carry out simple everyday tasks such as gripping or lifting things. Plastic surgeon Mr Oliver Harley tells us more about finger arthritis and what can be done to treat it.
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