Liposcution of subcutaneous tissue of head or neck
Liposuction techniques, commonly associated with weight issues and fat in the abdomen, are now so precisely-tuned that they can be applied to the head or neck. Small incisions are made discreetly in the skin and a cannula is used to remove excess fat and allow the consultant to reshape and contour the target areas. Subcutaneous tissue, along with the skin, can be tightened to enhance the results. Individual treatment plans can be established to address specific areas of concern and consultations will advise the best treatment pathways and outcomes. Rejuvenation of head and neck areas relies on a detailed appreciation of the balance of a patient’s features so the restored look is both effective and natural-looking. As the body heals, a more natural neckline and head shape in keeping with the rest of the facial structure become evident.
The specifics of the surgery will depend on the damage but it is normally performed under anaesthetic and involves incisions inside the nostrils or just beneath the tip of the nose between the nostrils. A facial plastic surgeon can reset and return the bone and cartilage structure closely to its normal position while ensuring there is no deep, internal damage that will affect breathing. Following reconstruction surgery a skin graft may be needed from another part of your body to cover the wound area. The aim is to reach a good cosmetic appearance and normal functionality and this can, in some cases, be achieved by suturing the skin around the wound.
A small skin graft can be used for small, superficial defects and they are normally applied after a week of healing. The colour and skin texture of the graft may differ slightly from the surrounding areas so may be noticeable after recovery. Better texture and colour matches can be attained by using flaps which may be necessary for deeper and more complex repairs. The flap is taken from areas around the nose or the forehead with minimal scarring but all options depend on the wound size and complexity of the wound.
Our consultants have many years’ experience of dealing with all aspects of rhinoplasty and their work is characterized by clinical excellence and attention to an individual patient’s needs.
Facelifts can be tailored to specific requirements which are discussed in consultations between the patient and surgeon. Several different types are available to give a long-lasting effect. The procedure itself involves raising and repositioning the skin and soft tissue of the face via well-positioned incisions in front of the ear, into the hair line and behind the earlobe so that they follow the body’s crease lines. The skin is lifted and underlying muscles tightened before the skin is placed in its new position with any excess skin is trimmed and sealed with dissolvable stitches. Fat tissue can be redistributed as part of the procedure. If required, a small cut under the chin can be made to tighten the skin on the neck but that can be performed separately as a necklift.
The operation normally lasts two to three hours and is performed under general anaesthetic with a one-night hospital stay before a two to three-week recovery protocol. The final results will be visible after six to nine months.