Tag Archives: Plastic Surgery

NHS Criteria Crisis? Will The Change In VAT Finally Move The NHS To Review Their Qualification Of Candidates For Cosmetic Procedures?

There have been several reports in the media in recent months suggesting that the government is to add VAT to cosmetic surgery procedures. If this is true patients will be charged an extra 20% on the procedures that they undergo. However, the picture is even more worrying for the NHS which, under certain circumstances, offers cosmetic surgery for free. If the VAT rumours are true then the NHS will find itself under financial pressure at a time when it can ill afford to be so. In this article we will look in depth at the government proposals on taxing cosmetic procedures and their effect on the NHS. We will then decipher whether the NHS will ultimately be forced to review their qualification for candidates undergoing cosmetic surgery.

HM Revenues and Customs
In autumn 2011 HM Revenues and Customs stated that they wanted to clarify the existing legislation on which types of cosmetic surgery attract VAT. They claim that any cosmetic surgery carried out for medical reasons is not taxable. However, surgery simply carried out to improve appearance should be taxed. The department said this had always been the case and new legislation had not actually been introduced. Cosmetic surgeries disagreed arguing that this tax had never been enforced so if it was now suddenly going to be enforced law it was, in effect, a new law. However, the boundaries between cosmetic surgery for medical and aesthetic reasons are not always as easy to define as, say the difference between rhinoplasty surgery to help alleviate problems with breathing and liposuction to tackle a pesky “muffin top”.

A surgeon could argue that a female requesting breast enlargement surgery needs it to combat depression, a medical condition. Breast enlargement would traditionally be seen as an aesthetical procedure but in this instance it may be passed as medical. Indeed, HM Revenues and Customs admit that each case needs to be judged on its individual merits.

So where does this leave the NHS?
Under current guideless the NHS only offers cosmetic surgery when it is deemed medically necessary. Therefore, the new legislation on VAT has no impact on the NHS. The health service will not have to foot additional bills whilst they continue to offer medical cosmetic procedures. It seems the NHS will have no reason to review their qualification of candidates for cosmetic procedures. In fact there are less likely to do so as any review may lead to non-medical procedures being carried out which would result in the service incurring the VAT charge.

There remains much confusion over the proposal of adding VAT to cosmetic procedures. The government themselves claim that some procedures are, and also have been, taxable. They claim they have not changed their policy but are simply clarifying the existing rules. It is clear, however, that the majority of cosmetic surgeries have not been charging their clients VAT for any procedures and the law has not been enforced. The outcry in the cosmetic industry reflects the panic felt by surgeons who worry potential patients may desert the UK for cheaper surgery abroad. The NHS, however, remains unaffected by this change or clarification because all the procedures carried out by the health service are for medical purposes so they will never attract VAT. It remains to be seen whether the government enforces the VAT on some cosmetic procedures but it is clear that the NHS will not be affected and therefore is under no pressure to review its candidates for surgery.

Via EPR Network
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The Exercise Myths

There are still many popular misconceptions about how to lose weight or tone up stomachs, bottoms and thighs – with exercise routines left over from the days of ‘go for the burn’ aerobics and Jane Fonda-style videos.

Sit-ups have traditionally been thought of the best way to tone stomach muscles – but this might not be the case. Firstly, lots of sit-ups or crunches alone won’t tone a flabby belly – you need to combine any exercise with other exercises as well as eating a balanced diet. Sit-ups also target the most superficial ‘six-pack’ core muscles, but too many of these will cause the tummy to bulge out, leading to a pot belly.

Those trying to lose weight often believe that exercising for longer periods of time will lead to increased weight loss. But exercising hard for a long time will produce excessive amounts of stress hormones, including adrenaline and cortisol, which begin to break down muscle tissue.

High-intensity exercise is good for heart health, but not effective for fat loss. Studies have shown the best way to burn fat is by carrying out moderate to light-intensity exercise, such as a brisk walk.

Those who are finding it hard to shift stubborn fat, should come for a consultation with an expert surgeon at The Hospital Group.

The Hospital Group offer a range of cosmetic procedures to help people achieve the perfect body, including tummy tucks and liposuction, as well as weight loss surgery, including gastric bypasses, balloons and bands.

David Ross, Chief executive of The Hospital Group, which has 19 clinics across the UK said: “People who come for a consultation have often been trying to beat the bulge through various diets and exercise regimes for years, but many do not have access to knowledge to make a lasting difference.

Via EPR Network
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Overweight Struggle With Weight Loss Because Of Heightened Sense Of Smell

New research has found that some overweight people have a greater sense of smell for food which may cause them to struggle with diets and weight loss.

Carried out by the University of Portsmouth , the study found that those who were overweight, or had a high BMI, had a far heightened sense of smell for food compared with slim people.

Volunteers took part in the study where they were asked to join in with a series of mini experiments that tested their smelling ability.

The results revealed that most people are better at detecting food odours just after they had eaten rather than when they were hungry with experts citing this as one of the reasons many people continue eating long after they are full up.

Scientists believe this new research could help explain why some people struggle to stay slim or stick to a strict diet.

Lead researcher Dr Stafford, said: “It could be speculated that for those with a propensity to gain weight, their higher sense of smell for food related odours might actually play a more active role in food intake.

“Hopefully this research will stimulate more work in this area with the potential to help those who struggle with their weight and those who treat people with weight problems.”

Those who are worried about being overweight should book a consultation with an expert bariatric surgeon at The Hospital Group.

The Hospital Group is the UK ‘s biggest provider of weight loss surgery, including gastric bands, gastric bypasses and gastric balloons.

David Ross, Chief Executive of The Hospital Group said: “Many overweight people struggle with their food intake and often find themselves in a vicious cycle of over eating.

Via EPR Network
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The Harley Medical Group Reports Boom In Pre-Wedding Breast Enlargement

The Harley Medical Group has reported that, with the wedding season at its peak, there has also been a corresponding significant rise in breast augmentation surgery.

Determined to look perfect on their big day, brides are taking the plunge and booking in for a boob job for additional confidence on their big day. As a result, breast enlargement is top of the ops this summer across the Group’s 30 clinics in the UK and Ireland.

Liz Dale, Director, The Harley Medical Group, commented, “The big wedding is certainly in vogue in 2010, so pre-wedding procedures are right back on the agenda, with the lucky couples determined to have a picture perfect record of their special day.

“With the average wedding costing nearly £20,000, patients see cosmetic procedures as a long term investment, with the effects of plastic surgery lasting well beyond the big day itself. The average pre-nup nip budget is around £4,000 and is favoured by those plumping for long engagements – we recommend patients allow a good four to six months recovery time to ensure the best results on their wedding day.”

Lisa Littlehales, Nurse Counsellor and Clinic Manager at The Harley Medical Group commented, “The split of brides to grooms having pre-wedding surgery is around 75% to 25%. For women their figure is definitely the focus – it is all about the dress, after all. The men we see are frequently looking to correct a sporting injury, so things like having rhinoplasty on a broken nose.”

Via EPR Network
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Harley Medical Group Reports Laser Hair Removal On The Up This Summer

With the recent bursts of scorching weather, The Harley Medical Group has seen an 23% increase in people grooming themselves ready to hit the beaches at home and abroad this summer.

Laser Hair Removal, is the most popular summer-time non-surgical procedure with men and women across The Harley Medical Group’s 30 UK clinics.

Liz Dale, Director at Harley Medical Group, commented: “People of all ages opt for laser hair removal because it’s such an effective and convenient treatment. It’s particularly popular with women and men in their late twenties through to their forties, as they have more disposable cash to invest in themselves. The most popular areas for the treatment are London, Brighton and Leeds.

“While we do see a spike in treatment bookings between February and August, as people get ready for the beach, it’s our most popular non-surgical treatment so we have high demand all year round. This summer’s sunny warm weather has caused this increase in enquiry as more patients are having the opportunity to wear swimwear and skimpy summer clothing.”

The Harley Medical Group uses the Alexandrite (Class 4) laser designed to work on lighter skin, the YAG laser for darker skin and the Isolaz which can be used on all types of skin. All lasers penetrate deep into the dermis and as the heat builds up the hair follicles are disabled in the active growth phase, enabling effective hair removal.

An invisible laser beam zaps the hair follicle by seeking out the dark pigmentation in the hair then directing the laser beam at its root to destroy it. It’s proven to give permanent hair reduction. You’ll need a course of treatments to remove all hair permanently though because the laser can only kill active growing hairs. The actual session will only take around twenty minutes but for permanent hair removal you’ll need to have 6-8 sessions.

Via EPR Network
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The Harley Medical Group Reports World Cup Widows Plump For Jabs

The Harley Medical Group is reporting that as the 2010 World Cup kicks off, many of its 29 UK clinics will be at ‘full capacity’ with non-surgical treatment bookings up 25% on the England match dates.

While many male footie fanatics have scheduled time off work to watch the first round of games in June, women across the country are making the most of the free time and booking rejuvenating peels and wrinkle relaxing injectables.

Keen to not to have any distractions this summer men are openly encouraging girlfriends and wives to spend more ‘me’ time, with pampering sessions and girls-only days out.

Liz Dale, Director, The Harley Medical Group, commented, “During the World Cup four years ago, we noticed a peak in female dominated treatments. This year the trend continues with enquiries for June up 48% compared to this time in 2006, which reflects the cumulative growth we’ve seen in non-surgical treatments overall. Women know they won’t be getting much attention from their husband or boyfriend while the football is on so this is the perfect feel-good factor treat.”

“Unsurprisingly we’re also expecting cosmetic surgery bookings for men to be down slightly – around 10% – in June for the first time in 20 months.”

Via EPR Network
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The Harley Medical Group Reveals Many Voters Swayed On Looks Alone

The Harley Medical Group’s latest poll has found that many UK adults confess that a politician’s appearance influences the way they vote, and Brown comes out bottom of the pile for style.

Never before have politicians been under such scrutiny for their outward appearance as this year, with the series of public debates. Now, a new poll out by The Harley Medical Group reveals that over a quarter (26%) of people confessed that a politician’s appearance influences the way they vote, whilst a further 29% said it may sway their vote.

The Harley Medical Group’s survey of 2,000 adults also showed that the party leaders clearly aren’t getting enough sleep with respondents agreeing that all three would benefit from cosmetic surgery to remove their eyebags. However, almost three times more respondents (61%) suggested Gordon Brown should opt for the scalpel on his eye bags, with just 27% and 28% urging David Cameron and Nick Clegg respectively, to do the same.

While David Cameron and Nick Clegg are closely vying for the crown of style king, Gordon Brown’s chances of another term in power are likely to be hindered by his lack of style in the public eye, with just 12% admitting to liking his dress sense.

Liz Dale, director at the Harley Medical Group, commented, “With so little between the candidates, everything counts at this stage and the visual impression they convey is key. We all know experience carries a certain weight but today’s results show people like a youthful face, with 43% of respondents saying this is important to them. Famously when Nixon and Kennedy went head to head in their presidential debate, Kennedy’s tanned, boyish looks helped him win the day and ultimately the election, despite Nixon taking the debate.”

Via EPR Network
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Report Shows The Recession Hasn’t Stopped The World From Wanting To Look Good

Flashy television programmes like ‘Nip/Tuck’ and gossip sites like TMZ make it very easy to believe that Los Angeles is the cosmetic surgery capital of the world. But cosmetic surgery is no longer such an‘American’ practice. CosmeticSurgeryGuru.com has studied reports from around the world and has discovered a large number of countries are becoming increasingly open to cosmetic surgery. As breast implants, botox injections and other forms of body augmentation can offer improvements in appearance and confidence, it is no surprise that no country holds a monopoly on these procedures.

The UK is just one of the many countries experiencing a cosmetic surgery renaissance. The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons found that, during 2008- 2009, the UK’s total number of procedures rose by 9%. These trends were echoed elsewhere in Europe. In fact, statistics indicate the USA is only 19th on a list ranking cosmetic surgery per capita, being thoroughly outpaced by Switzerland, Cyprus and Spain.

Cosmetic surgery practices are also more open about sharing information now there is no longer a ‘taboo’ surrounding the industry. Earlier this month, New Zealand released its first figures recording the number of procedures that took place in the country in 2008. This data from the New Zealand Foundation for Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery suggested 2,739 procedures took place in the country that year, with breast enlargement comprising 16% of the total (matching the worldwide trend of breast augmentation and liposuction dominating the surgical landscape).

While it is useful to learn how many procedures are actually taking place, it is also interest to find out how culturally accepted cosmetic surgery has become. 38% of females polled by Olay Regenerist revealed they would happily have cosmetic surgery, with the common goals being to look younger (37%) or to increase romantic attractiveness (21%).

Via EPR Network
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The Harley Medical Group Finds Awards Season Driving Demand For Eyebrow Lifts

The Harley Medical Group reports that high arches are the must-have look for this year, with Megan Fox, Eva Mendes and Beyonce sporting sculptured brows on the red carpet.

The Harley Medical Group, the UK’s largest cosmetic surgery provider, is reporting increased enquiries into non-surgical eyebrow lifts of around 39%, as women across the UK try to emulate the look of the stars.

The Harley Medical Group Finds Awards Season Driving Demand For Eyebrow Lifts

A spokesperson at The Harley Medical Group commented: “The non-surgical side of the business has seen real growth over the past year and our non-surgical specialists are seeing an increase in ‘combination treatments’, which offer affordable and effective solutions for lines and wrinkles. The eyebrow lift is a safe, lunchtime treatment, with the striking effect of reducing lines and opening up the area around the eye.”

According to staff at The Harley Medical Group clinics across the country, the increase in enquiries has been noticeable, with Angelina Jolie as the star possessing the looks which most women want their eyebrows to imitate. This impact on enquiries has been felt most within the London area, where the greatest increase in enquiries has been experienced.

Dr Nick Milojevic, Cosmetic doctor at The Harley Medical Group, commented, “The eyebrow lift is achieved with a combination of Botox and dermal fillers. The resulting effect gives a smooth, wrinkle free brow and helps make eyes appear larger and more open.”

Brows can be non-surgically lifted with a combination of Botox into the brow area, followed by an injection of dermal fillers into the arch of the eyebrow. The treatment is most effective if patients have an injection of Botox initially and then have the fillers treatment two weeks later. The Botox helps even out wrinkles and tighten the skin, while fillers add volume to plump and smooth creases. Results last for six to nine months.

Via EPR Network
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Saline and Silicone Breast Enhancement: Which One Should Patients Choose?

Patients interested in undergoing breast enhancement surgery will eventually make the choice between saline and silicone implants. There was some concern surrounding saline implants in the 1990s over health issues in women. However, after extensive research and testing, there was no connection established. Currently, doctors and patients still have a choice between the two materials, and while the physician may make a recommendation, patients still need to consider the pros and cons of each to make their decision.

Saline and Silicone Breast Enhancement: Which One Should Patients Choose?

Made of a silicone shell and filled with non-toxic silicone gel, the manufacturer fills silicone implants to a specific size and seals them. The outer shell is available in a number of different textures, sizes, shapes, colours, and thicknesses to help doctors produce results as close to natural tissue as possible. It’s important to note, however, that this style requires a large incision below the breast for installation, and once in place, are not adjustable.

Saline implants are made from the same shell as silicone breast implants, but are filled with saline solution (saltwater) instead of silicone gel. These may come prefilled by the manufacturer, or unfilled, which are installed using a small incision in the belly button, around the areola, under the arm, or under the breast. Once in place, the doctor fills them to the desired size and seals them. Adjustments can be made to the firmness and size afterward with a minor surgery.

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Plastic Surgeons Treating More Patients With Disfigurement Caused by Cheap Online Botox

An alarming number of patients are injecting themselves with Botox injections they buy online to eliminate wrinkles and dark circles. They’re saving money, but many of them are ending up disfigured.

•  Botulinum Toxin-A proteins, a toxic biological weapon better known as Botox, are injected into facial muscles to treat wrinkles and fine lines.

•  Many people purchase this substance over the Internet for a fraction of the price of in-clinic treatments.

•  The inability to identify the substance, its purity, and the dangers of injecting the substance have lead to numerous facial deformities, unintentional paralysis, breathing problems, and even death in addition to other side effects.

Botulinum Toxin-A proteins or Botox are one of the world’s most toxic substances, CosmeticSurgeryGuru can report that even this hasn’t stopped thousands of patients f r o m purchasing it online and injecting it under their skin.

Commonly known as Botox, this substance is considered safe when used by professionals to eliminate wrinkles and fine lines. The protein goes directly into the muscle where it causes prolonged paralysis, and therefore, prevents the muscle f r o m contracting and forming the line on the outside of the skin.

CosmeticSurgeryGuru notes that in untrained hands, however, the treatment carries an extremely high risk of incorrect placement combined with an increased risk of disfigurement. In fact, plastic surgeons who have performed these procedures for years won’t inject themselves because of the danger. Currently cosmetic surgeries such as Transform the largest cosmetic surgery group in the UK state that “ Transform’s qualified and highly experienced practitioners will ensure that there are no side effects aside f r o m occasional bruising that may occur” taken f r o m their Botox page Surely the extra money is worth the peace of mind.

Via EPR Network
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The Harley Medical Group Reports Rise In Laser Hair Removal

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, The Harley Medical Group has seen an increase in bookings for laser hair removal on the bikini line. The Harley Medical Group, has identified an annual spike in enquires around this time of year as women prepare for the romantic night. The treatment usually requires six to eight courses of laser treatments.

Laser hair removal is proven to permanently remove hair so, unlike with waxing, regrowth is not an issue.

Lisa Littlehales, clinic manager for The Harley Medical Group, said: £The real benefit with opting for laser hair removal is that you won’t have to worry about regrowth and unhygienic ingrown hairs, which can easily become infected as a result of shaving. To keep the female area smooth is a really low maintenance look, which is particularly good for time-limited women who don’t have hours to put into an intense grooming regime but who want a long-term solution to staying fuzz free.”

Laser hair removal, which has seen an increase of 15% year on year to date, is the most popular non-surgical procedure at The Harley Medical Group’s 27 UK clinics. The Harley Medical Group uses the Alexandrite (Class 4) laser designed to work on lighter skin, the YAG laser for darker skin and the Isolaz which can be used on all types of skin. All lasers penetrate deep into the dermis and as the heat builds up the hair follicles are disabled in the active growth phase, enabling effective hair removal.

All consultations at The Harley Medical Group are carried out by a fully qualified cosmetic surgery nurse counsellor followed shortly thereafter by a fully qualified and registered Plastic Surgeons. The Harley Medical Group has been established for more than 26 years and has 27 clinics in the UK and the Republic Ireland.

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idPatients Now Choose Between Saline and Silicone Breast Enhancement

Patients wanting to improve their bust line will eventually need to choose between saline and silicone breast enhancements. In the 90s, there were some concerns raised that silicone implants were tied to health issues, but years of extensive research and testing could find nothing. This means that, while doctors may recommend one or the other for specific reasons, patients will still need to weigh the pros and cons of choice and make the final decision.

idPatients Now Choose Between Saline and Silicone Breast Enhancement

Silicone breast implants are made of a silicone rubber shell filled by the manufacturer to a specific size with non-toxic silicone gel. They come with various shell types, volumes, colours, shapes, and thicknesses to help physicians make them appear as natural as possible. However, it’s important to note that this variety is not adjustable and requires a larger incision below the breast because they are prefilled.

With the same outer shell as silicone implants, saline devices are filled with a saline solution, which is better known as a saltwater solution. They can come prefilled by the manufacturer to a specific size, or they can come deflated.

The deflated versions are favoured because they can be placed through the belly button, under the arm, around the areola, or under the arm through a small incision. This provides plastic surgeons with a number of options to hide the incision. Then, physicians can fill them to the correct size and firmness. Adjustments can then be made at any time through a minor surgery.

Patients do state the saline implants feel harder than normal and have a texture that resembles a water balloon. To help offset this effect, however, new surgical techniques have made it possible for plastic surgeons to set the implant behind the chest muscle in addition to overfilling it slightly.

Plastic surgery experts warn patients that there are risks involved with this procedure, regardless of the implant chosen. Permanent damage, infection, excess scar tissue, breast pain, and the need for additional surgeries are just a few of these risks. Both materials are also at risk for leakage. A leak in saline implants, however, is almost instantly noticeable while silicone implants are difficult to see because the gel leaks and collects in the surrounding tissue. Silicone and saline implants can also interfere with the detection of breast cancer and dense tissue.

Via EPR Network
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Botox Patients Meet Dysport: Is This New Product Worth the Switch?

The arrival of Dysport on the cosmetic treatment market has excited many Botox users, who underwent an estimated 2.5 million treatments in the US alone. Considered a more affordable alternative, some say it may even be superior to the original.

Botox Patients Meet Dysport: Is This New Product Worth the Switch?

Dysport consists of botilnum toxin Type A proteins that is injected into the muscle just like Botox. This paralyzes the surrounding muscle group and prevents it from forming the wrinkle on the skin. Because it is a weaker version of Botox, it requires three treatments to just one of its twin, but it is believed to have some benefits.

While it requires additional treatments, Dysport may work a full 48 hours sooner, which is ideal for patients with an important event to attend. In fact, some patients have reported the disappearance of their wrinkles in as little as 24hrs.

Some doctors have reported the effects of this new treatment lasts up to a year in some cases, which is far longer than the 3 months associated with Botox. Lastly, it costs approximately 20% less than its predecessor and has found to be effective for patients who have developed immunity to Botox.

“Patients who have undergone both treatments seem to have mixed results. Some prefer the Botox, while others swear by Dysport. Both products have similar risks and benefits, so it really depends on the patient’s physical makeup and the area being treated,” said Dan Brains of CosmeticSurgeryGuru.com.

Dysport does have the same risks as its cosmetic counterpart. Among them are the unintended paralysis of muscles in the surrounding area, swelling, bruising, and a burning sensation at the injection site. The new version has been reported as having an increased spread so it can treat larger areas, but it also carries a greater risk of having it spread too far. Lastly, it has an increased risk of causing antibody formation. In this instance, the body neutralises the toxin with antibodies and prevents it from working.

Originally created to treat neurological disorders, Dysport is quickly gaining ground in the market as a wrinkle treatment and a safe treatment for hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating). However, patients should consult with their physician about making the switch.

Via EPR Network
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Men Turning to Liposuction to Stay in Shape

It has been reported that liposuction is becoming increasingly popular amongst males, with The Hospital Group recording an 82% increase in the procedure over the past 5 years.

Liposuction has grown in leaps and bounds over the last few years and is often now referred to as liposculpture. Liposculpture creates the same result as the more commonly used term, liposuction or Lipo. Very similarly to liposuction excess fat cells are removed, from almost any part of the body.

However, in contrast to liposuction, the procedure of liposculpture is a more time consuming operation with a greater amount of personal skill required by the plastic surgeon, and creates a smoother end result, changing the contours of your body or face. This cosmetic surgery procedure is suitable for both men and women. A spokesperson for The Hospital Group, said: “Men are becoming increasingly worried about their weight and, similarly to women, have fatty areas on their body which refuse to shift with diet and exercise alone, so therefore liposuction is a viable solution.” The procedure involves insertion of a Cannula (small tube-like syringe) through a small incision in the skin. The fat is then drawn through the tube leaving a much smoother surface. The procedure is carried out under General Anaesthetic.

For those looking to undergo the procedure: the best candidates for liposculpture are those with stubborn areas of fat which are resistant to diet or exercise. This could include the tummy, buttocks, chin, arms, knees etc. A consultation with a Surgeon will help you identify what sort of outcome you could expect and if it is the right procedure for you. For example, liposuction can remove excess fat around the abdomen, but not excess skin. In this case a tummy tuck might be recommended in order to achieve the desired result.

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2010 Sees a Rise in Plastic Surgery Enquiries

Last decade saw the continuous rise in the number of people having cosmetic surgery; from cosmetic dentistry and breast augmentation to gastric bands, increasing numbers of men and women are turning to cosmetic procedures to improve their looks.

According to the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) the numbers of people choosing to have surgery over the last five years has rocketed by 320 percent and the new decade is not expecting the trend to slow.

Experts have predicted that the recovering economy will likely see an increase in people opting for minimally invasive non surgical solutions and later saving up for procedures such as face lifts, as patients are better able to finance their surgery. Also, the increase in obesity means a rise in weight loss surgery for 2010, with more obese people opting to go under the knife.

David Ross, Chief Executive of The Hospital Group, comments: “We have seen nearly a 40 percent rise in post-Christmas cosmetic surgery enquires going into 2010 from the previous year. Moving into the new decade people want to look as good as they feel, and are willing to invest in improving their quality of life.”

The Hospital Group, one of the UK’s foremost cosmetic surgery providers and the biggest provider of gastric surgery, perform a wide range of both surgical and non surgical treatments which can help to make men and women to look younger.

For quick results, they offer anti wrinkle treatments, BOTOX®, facial fillers, chemical peels and teeth whitening and more in 19 clinics across the UK and Ireland.

For longer term results involving surgery, face lifts, rhinoplasty, liposuction and an extensive range of breast surgery procedures are just some of the treatments on offer at the exclusive Bromsgrove clinic.

Since The Hospital Group was established in 1992, it has grown from a small pharmaceutical company to one of the UK’s foremost plastic surgery providers. The Group is committed to providing the very highest standards and all procedures are performed by an expert medical team in state-of-the-art facilities that are second to none

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What is our Ideal Body Shape?

It is well documented that over the decades our ideal body shape and size has changed from the voluptuous screen goddesses such as Marilyn Monroe and Bridget Bardot to the size Zero celebrities of today.

The average ideal dress size back in the 1940s and 50s was a 12-14, while last decade the ideal shapes of our screen icons changed significantly towards the increasingly svelte sizes of Victoria Beckham and Madonna. However, a poll out at the end of last year revealed that fuller, curvy figures rule as Kate Winslet and Kelly Brook top the survey for the most desirable celebrity bodies.

Whilst we can’t all be the spitting image of our favourite Hollywood stars, the good news is that such life changing surgery is not exclusive to celebrities. Those of us who are unhappy with their size and shape can take action and boost their confidence.

The Hospital Group, one of the UK’s leading cosmetic surgery clinic, offers a wide range of both surgical and non-surgical treatments from BOTOX® and facial peels to breast enlargement and weight loss surgery.

David Ross, Chief Executive of The Hospital Group said: “At The Hospital Group, people can be assured of a dedicated, professional service, with astounding success rates and a limited waiting time. Our surgeons have years of experience, and can advise you honestly on how The Hospital Group can adapt your body – and ultimately change your life.”

The Hospital Group is committed to providing the very highest standards and all procedures are performed by an expert medical team in state-of-the-art facilities that are second to none.

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The Harley Medical Group Announce Their Top Of The Ops 2009

Figures released by The Harley Medical Group, the UK’s largest cosmetic surgery provider, reveals the non-surgical cosmetic surgery market has seen continued growth in 2009, with dermal fillers and chemical peels driving the increase by 26% and 306% respectively.

The Harley Medical Group Announce Their Top Of The Ops 2009

2009 also saw a continued rise in the number of male patients (up 5%), who now account for 18% of all patients seen, with ‘Boytox’ (male Botox) and ‘Sweatox’ (anti-sweat Botox), both driving the growth. The latter part of the year saw the City clinic bounce back when banker bonuses returned to the agenda, with a 24% month on month sales increase in September alone.

Breast augmentations, which remain top of the ops at The Harley Medical Group, are the third most common type of post-natal procedure with mums making up 60% of patients. Post-baby surgery now accounts for 90% of abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) operations. The second most popular procedure with mothers is the mastopexy or Breast Uplift, with post-baby surgery accounting for an estimated 75% of all Breast Uplifts.

The cosmetic surgery industry as a whole has seen growth in 2009 and Mel Braham, Chairman at The Harley Medical Group stated he expects the Group’s cosmetic surgery and non-surgical treatment market to grow up to a further 20% in 2010 and committed to continuing the groups ambitious expansion plans with new 8 new clinics to open their doors shortly.

Jeremy Baker, Consumer Analyst at ESCP Europe business school, said, “I would predict continued market growth in the cosmetic surgery industry for at least the next five years. There’s a huge emphasis on grooming in popular culture and the job market is tough – people need to be younger, fitter, and better and this is reflected in the maintenance of personal appearance. Men have now caught up with the times and don’t want to be left behind so I’m sure we’ll see big increases in this sector in particular.”

Liz Dale, Director at The Harley Medical Group, commented, “Non-surgical procedures, which saw big growth last year, have continued to be a strong area for us and now account for 32% of all our business, with product sales up 26%. The increase has been galvanised by the launch of the Obagi Blue chemical peel and of our online shop, which we’ll be extending in 2010 to include own range products to respond to consumer demand for inexpensive, effective beauty solutions.

Liz Dale continued: “The surgical side of the business is also continuing to grow. While breast augmentations remain the most popular surgical procedure, rhinoplasties are closing the gap in second. Face and neck lifts, which had been static for much of 2009, were up 17% in November.”

Regional trends show that non surgical has driven growth in the London area with peels growing 395% year-on-year at the Harley Street clinic and 609% in the City Clinic – these clinics along with the other London clinics have seen a non surgical boom with Botox and fillers also extremely popular treatments.

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Lower Eye Surgery Gains Popularity with Women

The Hospital Group has reported that lower eye surgery is becoming increasingly popular amongst women. More lower eye surgery procedures were performed than upper eyelid lifts in 2009, as well as there being a larger percentage increase in the procedure over the past 5 years.

The appearance of loose droopy skin under the eyes can be very ageing and give a“sad” look to your face. Sun and smoking can accelerate the signs of ageing, while others are more prone to inherit the condition. This condition can easily be remedied with a simple eyelift procedure.

Eye bag removal is a common and simple plastic surgery procedure which can deliver dramatic results, making the eye area look more youthful, attractive and alive. The procedure is becoming increasingly popular in men as well as women. The Hospital Group can help you achieve a more bright-eyed, wide awake look.

A spokesperson for The Hospital Group, said: “THG Comment: – “We see more patients in need of eye bag removal than eye lift surgery and this procedure is a lot more popular. Eye bags can also be caused through stress, smoking and genetic factors.”

The Hospital Group is one of the UK’s leading providers of cosmetic surgery, number one in obesity surgery and tummy tuck experts. So whatever your requirements, you can rest assured in the safe hands of the professionalism and experience that THG has to offer.

Since The Hospital Group was established in 1992, it has risen to become the UK’s biggest weight loss surgery providers, performing more gastric band procedures last year than the NHS. The Hospital Group is committed to providing the very highest standards and all procedures are performed by an expert medical team in state-of-the-art facilities that are second to none.

Via EPR Network
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Harley Medical Group Reports Rise In Neck Lift Procedures

The Harley Medical Group, the UK’s largest cosmetic surgery provider, has reported a 17% rise in neck lift procedures in 2009 when compared to the same period in 2008.

Wobbly or excess skin on the neck, dubbed the ‘turkey neck’ is a give-away sign of ageing. The skin on the neck is particularly thin making it less elastic, less supple and more fragile as the ageing process causes a decrease in collagen in the skin, meaning it is more susceptible to sagging and wrinkles.

Liz Dale, Director of the Harley Medical Group, said: “Demand for neck lift procedures were static over the summer months. Now its winter people are more inclined to take time off work for surgery and stay at home to recuperate. In these two weeks over Christmas women are literally killing the turkey neck, recovering and then re-appearing rejuvenated and fresh faced, ready to see in the New Year.”

Celebrities rumoured to have given the turkey neck the chop include Sharon Osborne and Hilary Clinton.

63 year-old Brenda Scott, a face and neck lift patient at The Harley Medical Group, said: “The loose flapping skin on my neck and under my chin bothered me for years so I would cover it by wearing scarves and high-neck jumpers. I always felt young for my age but where I could help disguise the lines on my face with good make-up, my neck was more exposed.”

Lisa Littlehales, Regional Clinic Manger at The Harley Medical Group, also commented: “A neck lift procedure will give a long-lasting firm, and youthful looking appearance – liposuction is also often used in the same procedure to eliminate the fat pocket under the chin. The procedure does require an overnight stay in hospital and will require up to two weeks recovery time. Our patients are advised to keep the incision out of direct sun light and wear sun block until colour and bruising has completely faded – so if you’re going to have this type of surgery winter is the perfect time of year to do it.”

Via EPR Network
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