ABDOMINOPLASTY &
BODY LIFT SURGERY

the facts…………………..

Your Consultation

Cosmetic surgery patients can safely be split into two groups.  Those born with, or who as they grow, develop features they do not like.  For example: a large nose, large breasts or even undeveloped breasts, protruding ears, or indeed, any feature that may make them unhappy.  Then there are those who are unwilling, or unable to come to terms with the effects of ageing, pregnancy or trauma.  Both groups may be unhappy to the detriment of their self-esteem.

Today in the United Kingdom, there can be few unaware of the benefits of cosmetic surgery and many consider it to be the “ultimate voyage of self improvement”.  However, good cosmetic surgery is not an accident, or a miracle, it has to be planned.

Planning starts with your consultation…..

Consultations should only be given by one person, a highly experienced surgeon who is the only one capable of determining whether you are a suitable candidate for the surgery that you are asking for.  Counsellors, lay or nursing, irrespective of their experience are not licensed to operate and although they may assist with simple explanations, you should not allow yourself to be placed in a situation where they advise surgery.  Most lay counsellor’s work on a commission basis and it is therefore unlikely that your best interests will figure prominently in their thinking.

At the consultation you will not find lay counsellors.  All consultations are carried out by highly trained Surgeons.

The patient prepared to accept advice from an unqualified source should not be too surprised if the standard of surgery reflects this fact.  Competent professionals will not be found associating with this type of organisation.  It may be wise to bear this in mind.

No substitute exists for a Pre-Operative Consultation.  It may be inconvenient; you may feel it unnecessary believing that you know what you want.  The truth is different.  Consultation is an integral part of any treatment you may have carried out.  It cannot be bypassed.

 We do not charge for Consultations.  A very high degree of knowledge and skill is required for a well-balanced opinion about the necessity for the operation in which you may be interested.  You must appreciate that even when the advice is not in favour of surgery, it comes from a highly qualified person who has given his time, attention and experience to your problem, consulting, both pre and post-operatively accounts for over 50 per cent of surgeons times and good ones do not give this time away.  Neither will they tell you that you need surgery when you don’t.  Surgeons build reputation not only by the work they carry out, but the work they decline.

 

The Consultation is free of charge, but if you do not attend a consultation when booked and have not informed us that you are unable to attend then a fee becomes payable.

Appointments for consultation may be arranged by telephoning the Patient Information Service.

Do’s & Don’ts

Considering cosmetic surgery?  The following simple rules should ensure that you end up looking better, not worse………..

• Avoid any organisation where “counsellors” are employed.  The only person qualified to advise you on your surgical requirements is the surgeon who is to carry out your surgery.  Nurse counsellors should also be avoided.  They have no training, which makes their advice of no use to you.  Counsellor usually means sales, which usually means problems.

Do nothing until such time as you have consulted a highly experienced Surgeon.  Experience without training is not much use to you.  Always insist on a highly experienced Surgeon.

• Do not accept shared, or worse still, mixed accommodation.  You need your own room and bathroom.  Good surgeons will not be found working where conditions such, as this exists.

• Ask to speak to some of your surgeon’s previous patients.  Particularly those who have undergone the same treatment in which you are interested.  All competent surgeons have patients prepared to give testament to their competence.   If you were told that this would not be ethical, it would probably be better if you found another surgeon.

• Exercise caution when offered photographs depicting patient’s pre and post operatively.  There are several things to consider here.  The first is whether or not they are the property of the person showing them to you.  All too often the same photographs keep turning up with different surgeons claiming to have carried out the operation.

The second thing to bear in mind is the simple face that these photographs will represent the very best a surgeon or organisation can produce.  They are not going to show bad photographs.  If what you are shown does not impress, you should remember that what you are looking at is probably their very best.  You may not do anywhere near as well.

• All responsible surgeons and organisations publish detailed facts with regard to the procedure in which your interests may lie.  Avoid those whose information consists of nothing more or less than trumpet blowing.  Pictures of smiling patients do not tell you what you need to know.  Look for detailed information and explanations about the procedure, which should include the disadvantages and risks as well as the advantages.

• Ensure that your levels of expectation are realistic.  Plastic Surgery is not going to turn you into a film star, nor much sought after employee, not is it going to mend marriages.  In fact, apart from improving some aspect of your appearance there is very little else you can justifiably expect from it.

If improvement of appearance is all you ask from your surgery, you will no doubt be delighted at the increase in self-confidence and rapid return of self-esteem.  However, as stated above, ensure that your expectations are realistic by discussing carefully with your surgeon just what can be achieved.

• Do not have surgery to please someone else.  This is a private solution to a personal problem and surgery carried out for this reason is rarely successful.  If you have surgery, have it because you want it, not for somebody else.

Considering Treatment?

Today it has become almost cultural to take vitamins and food supplements as an aid to maintaining health.  However, if you are considering aesthetic plastic surgery and regularly take food supplements please read the following very carefully.

Likewise, if you are taking any medication on a regular basis, the following information is of importance to you:

The following must not be taken two weeks prior to surgery being carried out and for the two weeks following:

Effamol G     Primrose Oil     Wheatgerm With Vitamin E      Evening Primrose Oil     Salmon Oil Capsules    Cod Liver Oil Capsules
Multi-Vitamins with E

No anti-inflammatory agents (mediations for the treatment of swelling, bruising, pains, etc) including:

 

No Naturopath preparations including:

 

Do not take medications containing salicylates including:

 

Or anything containing Aspirin.  You may take paracetamol.

Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (Moams), prescribed for depression must not be taken, nor any medication used to thin the blood.

Smoking may seriously affect the outcome of any surgery you may be contemplating but particularly in the case of:

 

You should stop smoking ideally from six weeks pre-operatively and for two weeks post-operatively.  If you can stop for this period of time why not stop permanently?

Please contact us if you require explanation or further information on the above.

ABDOMINOPLASTY
(Tummy Tuck)

This booklet has been prepared to answer many of the frequently asked questions about Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tucks).  The information contained within is important to everyone thinking about Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) treatment and we recommend that all sections be read carefully.

You must not use this Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) information as something on which to base final decisions without the benefit of an individual examination.  Descriptions of the surgical details are in general terms and will not apply to everyone.  This information may, however, serve as a starting point for your enquiry.

The material contained within this Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) booklet was designed to allow careful consideration at home of both the procedural and surgical details of the operation in which you are interested.  It is free of photographs, makes no recommendations for surgery and in no way should it be considered promotional material for the hospital.

If you consult a surgeon you do so in the knowledge that he endorses the basic concept of this booklet.  Wherever his ideas or methods differ from those described within, he will draw this to your attention and describe his own preferences and the reason for them.

Differing methods should not be considered as deviating from normal, or accepted procedures.  There are hundreds of variations for each surgical procedure carried out and your surgeon has a duty of care to ensure that he selects that, which is appropriate for you.

Why have Aesthetic Plastic Surgery? 

Examine your reasons – make sure that your expectations are realistic – have a positive attitude remember plastic surgery will not resolve your major life problems but should boost your confidence and self esteem.

Do not have surgery to please someone else, these are private solutions to personal problems and surgery for this reason is rarely successful.

When a reputable surgeon and anaesthetist carry out an aesthetic surgery operation, it is rare for severe complications to occur, but nothing can be guaranteed absolutely.

However, in very difficult cases it is conceivable that several procedures may be required before the ultimate end result will be achieved.  If this is the case, you will be advised of this fact before you are allowed to elect for surgery, and the price you are quoted will include the close of all surgery necessary.

Rarely is aesthetic plastic surgery covered by insurance policies.  Surgery required to correct poor attempts at cosmetic surgery may be covered by medical insurance if it can be shown that the correction of previous surgery is essential to the health or well being of the insured.

When surgery is carried out to correct the result of poor surgery carried out elsewhere, it is done so on the basis that more than one surgical procedure may be required and that such procedure(s) do not carry the guarantee applicable to surgery originating from this hospital.  This type of surgery is usually difficult and unpredictable and may require several procedures.  If you hold medical insurance, it may well be that the cost, either in full, or part, will be met by your insurers.  The Hospital will assist with the necessary forms.  An ever-increasing amount of surgery carried out at this Hospital is for corrective purposes.

Everyone is different and the same operation will have different results.  Some take longer to heal than others, some skins produce raised scars and other, hardly any at all.  This is due to differing natural healing responses, which cannot be evaluated prior to surgery.  You must remember this.  Minor revision surgery may be required because in major or complex procedures it is more likely that all the factors of shaping and healing, will fail to give a perfect result first time.  Some revision surgery becomes necessary, because a patient fails to transmit his or her true requirements to the surgeon.  If you have a passive personality (absolutely nothing wrong with that) and during your consultation say, you contribute little, you are most likely to end up with the surgical result which reflects your surgeons aesthetic tastes as opposed to your own.  As previously mentioned, if your requirements are specific in any way, they must be made known to your surgeon during consultation.  During your consultation, your surgeon will listen carefully to what you say, noting down your requirements in your personal records.  These notes will be of great value to him, both when planning your treatment and carrying it out.  If you are accepted for treatment, please do not make a definite appointment for your surgery to be carried out unless you are sure you can keep it.  The Centre will require a fee equivalent to 10% of the total fee payable before booking a surgical appointment and this fee is non-refundable in most circumstances.  Please discuss this point with administration.

Anaesthetics

Wherever possible, we avoid the use of general anaesthetics, preferring instead to use sedation therapy, Twilight, as it is sometimes known is a natural method of anaesthesia, which allows you to sleep naturally throughout your operation.  Many patients say that in effect they were not really asleep but in a “twilight condition” which they enjoyed.  The advantages of this type of anaesthesia are enormous both to patient and surgeon alike.  You will benefit in that when you awake you will not feel sick, will not have a sore throat and will be able to drink almost immediately.  Anaesthesia should not cause you concern. 

Hospital Administration

Patient Information Managers are appointed by to ensure that every patient is fully aware of the consequences of electing surgery.  PIM’s as they are known, are the people who will book your operation should you elect surgery.  However, before they do so they will need to know that you are confident of your decision and that you are aware of all aspects of your treatment and its effects upon you.  You may feel that the information you are given is more than necessary or, unduly pedantic.  We do not believe this to be the case, rather that well-informed patients make better patients.  The future for cosmetic surgery is too bright to leave patients in the dark.

Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)

The majority of ladies do not realise how babies will affect their body shape.  The children are, of course, worth every inconvenience, but later in life, mothers usually dislike their stretched abdominal skin, particularly if it contains the scar of a Caesarean operation.

No amount of exercise or creams will reduce the stretched skin, which will often contain numerous stretch marks.  Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) is a misnomer because surgery involved is major.  It is important that the abdominoplasty is not carried out for correction of obesity otherwise an unsatisfactory result will occur.  The patient should be within several pounds of their ideal weight, otherwise a secondary procedure will certainly be necessary.

You will be asked a general medical history together with details of any previous abdominal surgery. The surgeon is able to show the patient where the scar will be, having assessed the extent of stretching of the abdominal skin.  The Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) scar is horizontal, in a transverse line running at a level just above the pubic hair.  The scar runs from hip to hip and is designed to be covered by normal pants (the bikini line).

Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) is carried out under general anaesthetic (and is not necessary to shave the pubic hair).  A triangular area of skin and underlying fat is removed from hip to hip, across the top of the pubic hair and up to around the umbilicus.  Lipoplasty may be used in conjunction with conventional surgery if the surgeon wishes to remove fat from the surrounding area.

The umbilicus is left attached on a stalk, a pocket is made underneath the skin and fat of the upper abdomen as far as the ribs, and this skin is then stretched downwards, to join the lower incision.  Having closed the skin edges, a moon-shaped incision is made at the site of the umbilicus which is then sewn back into its new position.

Drainage tubes are inserted underneath the skin to remove any ooze of blood, or body fluid.  Hidden stitches are used underneath the skin surface.  A dressing is then applied over the main suture line and umbilicus.  An intravenous drip is usually required to replace lost body fluids.  Following abdominoplasty the abdominal skin feels tight and a typical patient will not be able to straighten up completely for a period of some days.

During this period of time, however, the patient is encouraged to stand and walk, although this does produce some discomfort.  The drainage tubes are usually removed at the third or fourth post operative day at which time the dressing will be re-applied and the patient may leave the hospital.  A light dressing will be required for 2-3 weeks and this should be kept dry.  Numbness of the lower abdomen is usual after Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck).

This gradually returns to normal although the process may take many months, or even years, to completion.  It is normal to feel moderate discomfort after abdominoplasty and this is usually controlled by mild analgesia such as paracetamol.  Bruising is inevitable after abdominoplasty and reveals itself as swelling of the lower abdominal skin.  This bruising may take many months to subside completely.  Occasionally, the area may be dressed with a Reston sponge.  This material can substantially reduce bruising but is not always possible to use.

Mild infection around the stitch line often occurs following Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck).  This exhibits itself with minor inflammation around the suture line which usually subsides over a period of 2 to 3 weeks.  If in the unlikely event you were to contract a major infection, antibiotics would be necessary.  The effect of a serious infection could lead to skin slough resulting in permanent tissue loss at the affected site.  This would entail further surgery at a later stage.  Never experienced by us, this problem has been known to occur rarely and for this reason alone we have included it.

It’s true to say that hundreds of complications can occur with any operation however simple.  However, most surgeons should never see the majority of these, provided they are properly trained and careful about their technique.

An occasional complication of Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) is bleeding, and whilst meticulous care is taken during the operation to stop any bleeding points, occasionally a blood vessel does leak after the operation is over.  If significant, it may be necessary to evacuate the blood clot, or if minor, natural re-absorption will occur.  In some patients there is minor loss of wound adhesion at the centre of the lower transverse scar.  This is a temporary complication which results in a small scab which separates after 3 to 5 weeks.

During this period, a small dressing will be required over the area.  Some distortion of the skin, particularly around the hip region, will occur after Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck).  It may occasionally be necessary to carry out a liposuction procedure in order to reduce this distortion should it persist once the initial scarring has subsided.

Scars are not a complication but a normal event after surgery.  Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) scars usually take many months or even years to settle.  The body responds to a weakness in its skin by the build up of excess scar tissue which is hard, red, raised, lumpy and itchy.  Once the skin strength is restored the scars mature, becoming softer, flatter and more natural skin colour and texture.  This process takes an average 18 months to completion.  During this period, daily massage with moisturising creams is advised.  Very rarely can abdominoplasty scars be described as hairline.  You should expect scarring as advised by your surgeon during consultation.  Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) has always been a popular aesthetic surgery request and the patients who have undergone this procedure enjoy a return to their tight, flat abdominal skin.

Prior to an Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) being carried out, patients are advised to cease smoking for the first 14 days prior to admission.  If you can’t stop smoking at least try to reduce the amount you smoke considerably.

You should also avoid taking wheat germ oil, Cod liver oil, or salmon oil capsules for the same period of time.  Also to be avoided is Garlic and Garlic capsules.  Drugs to avoid are Disprin, Codis, Analgen and Veganin, or any other product containing Aspirin.  Your surgeon will advise you during your consultation of any other requirements he may have for you, any of which are all in order to ensure your treatment is as safe as it possibly can be.

BODY LIFTING SURGERY

Body contour surgery is a specialised form of cosmetic surgery that treats the body shape or contour in an attempt to improve or restore form; this may be achieved by either:

Liposuction/Liposculpture a group of procedures indicated for the treatment of localised fat collections resistant to diet and exercise in patients with good skin tone, and commonly performed with very small cuts that rarely leave significant scars.  Not for the treatment of generalised obesity or for those with loose excess skin.

All other operations that alter the bodies shape and simultaneously remove excess skin and fat from any part of the body.  These operations unlike liposuction have longer cuts, longer recovery time, are more complex and require trained and experience surgeons.

These operations are:

• Upper Body,  e.g. Breast and Arm Surgery.
• Lower Body,   e.g. details follow:

Lower Body Lift Surgery

• The Extended Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) (front).
• Transverse Thigh- Buttock Lift (back).

Our surgeon’s special interest in Body Contour Surgery was developed over many years of practice and has featured on numerous occasions in the UK press, in magazine articles and on television.  It has been called a “facelift on the tummy”.

Our surgeon has developed a technique, the Extended Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) that combines the best of up to the minute international scientific developments with his vast personal experience spanning 27 years in plastic surgery, liposculpture, muscle repair and skin tightening.

This Operation makes it possible to restore and lift the body from below the breasts and into the thighs with a single scar that is easily hidden in a bikini.  The result is dramatic and long lasting, with an improved youthful smooth tight skin quality and natural contours.

It is possible to get a good idea of the expected result by standing undressed in front of a mirror and pulling the tummy firmly upwards and outwards,  If this is done firmly enough the entire lower body is lifted: that is what can be achieved.

The Perfect Candidate

The perfect candidate has a loose abdominal wall with obvious skin excess, possibly with stretch marks from pregnancy or weight loss and may have the unsightly scars of past surgery.  Many of these patients may also complain that their inner thighs are loose and need lifting.  Sagging and pendulous apron of skin and fat are all correctable.  These last problems cannot be corrected by diet, exercise or liposuction alone and it is for this reason that even the larger women are not excluded.

Patients that present with this appearance commonly complain that they do not allow anyone to see them undressed, that they are ashamed of their bodies, cannot wear revealing clothes, are always covering up and never go to the beach.  There is an enormous loss of self-esteem, confidence and poor body image.

Traditional tummy tucks and standard abdominoplasty are unable to produce the wonderful restorative results this form of remunerative body surgery.  Our surgeon has successfully redone many patients unhappy with previously performed and often inappropriate liposuction, lipectomy, tummy tucks, and even “old-style” Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck), all have been corrected with dramatic results.

It is essential to understand the liposuction does not tighten loose or hanging skin and the removal of fat under these circumstances can often make matters worse, leaving an uglier, saggy, lumpy and dimpled appearance.

Lower Body Lifts are usually performed in separate stages:

• The first or Extended Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) that simultaneously corrects, tightens and smoothes the front of the tummy, the waist and the inner thighs.

• With a bikini lines scar it restores the body from below the breasts to half way down the thighs, it smoothes, tightens and slims the entire torso.  The muscle repair pulls in, defines and reduces the waist.

• Hanging skin at the groin, creases, inner thigh wrinkling, and the pubic excess are lifted, flattened, tightened and smoothed.  This is not an uncommon problem.  The correct operation is the extended abdominoplasty and not a thigh lift that leaves an uncorrectable visible and exposed ugly scar in the inner thigh.

• The belly button is recreated as a small natural attractive depression and the upper midline is contoured by liposuction.

• The repair and strengthening of the abdominal muscles so critical to good posture can restore the “sculpted body”; this is the silhouette of youth.

• Performed using general anaesthesia with a two-day hospital stay it is followed by a two to three week recovery period during which normal activities are soon resumed.  The body lift scar usually fades within 6 to 12 months.

• This operation may be combined with simultaneous Breast Surgery, as in enhancement (augmentation), lifting or reduction.

• The second or Transverse Thigh/Buttock Lift usually performed as a second operation, but not sooner than three months after The Extended Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck).  The outer ends of the old bikini scar are continued around the body and meet between the buttock cleft.  This corrects building hips, sagging buttocks and the outer thighs.

BODY LIFTING RESTORES SELF-ESTEEM & SEXUAL CONFIDENCE – in the younger woman a new body is created and is more suited to low cut jeans, an exposed mid-riff, modern fitted and revealing clothing styles and even a bikini to the beach.  In the more mature woman the figure is youthful, more flattering clothing can be easily worn, comfort is improved and confidence regained.

Detailed further information about these forms of advanced body contour surgery is available at the time of your consultation.  At that time your medical history; state of health and suitability will all be assessed.

General Anaesthetic

After you have discussed your operation with the surgeon, it will be necessary for you to consider your anaesthetic requirements.  In order for the operation to be performed painlessly, it will be necessary for you to have an anaesthetic of one type or another.  Although we try and avoid the use of full-blown general anaesthetics wherever possible, in many cases, for reasons of your absolute comfort and safety they are required.  Modern general anaesthetics are safe.  You need not fear them.  They are even safe for the type of patient seeking elective surgery because of their fitness levels.

If a GA has been selected as being appropriate in your case you will meet your anaesthetist before the operation but, because your operation is not urgent in a medical sense, it is sensible for you to be as fit and healthy as possible, prior to the anaesthetic.

In order to avoid unnecessary disappointment, this leaflet has been prepared describing some common problems, which can result in the operation being postponed.   If you are in any doubt, please contact the hospital prior to leaving home.  If it is essential to postpone your operation you will then be spared the journey, when a new date can be arranged.

Most people have never had an anaesthetic.  The latter part of these notes describes what will happen before, during and after your anaesthetic.  The description is quite detailed, in the hope that it will take away some of your anxieties.  Your anaesthetist will be taking care of your all through the operation, although you will only be aware of his presence before and after the operation.

Coughs, sore throats, colds and influenza, or any infection in the breathing passages, can be made much worse by a GA.  For this reason you should be symptom free for at least two weeks before an anaesthetic.  Important symptoms include a fever, sore throats, runny nose or cough.

It is very important that your stomach is empty before you have a GA.  For this reason you should not eat, or drink anything, for at least 6 hours prior to your operation.  This will be advised to you on the day of booking your operation with the Patient Information Officer.

Most medical conditions do not cause difficulties for your anaesthetic, providing that they have been adequately treated beforehand.  If you have a problem such as diabetes, chronic bronchitis, or asthma, which deteriorates from time to time, it is best to have your anaesthetic during a good period.

If you are worried that you may not be fit enough for an anaesthetic, ask yourself this question: “while I have suffered from this problem, have I ever been fitter?”  If the answer is yes, please phone the hospital before leaving home, so that we can advise you on the desirability of having an anaesthetic at that particular time.  It may be necessary to delay your operation for a few weeks so that your medical condition can be improved.  This may be a disappointment at the time, but is done for your comfort and safety.

If you suffer from high blood pressure, you may like to ask your GP to check it for a few weeks before your operation.  If your blood pressure is unacceptably high, your GP will be able to read it before your have your operation.  You will appreciate that your GP will already have cared for you during your medical illness.  He is, therefore, in the best position to advise on treatment, which will return you rapidly to full fitness.

Many people do not want their GPs to know that they are having a cosmetic operation.  This is because they believe that he will be unsympathetic.  This is very rarely the case.  We prefer to involve your GP in any treatment, prior to your operation, as his advice can be immensely helpful.  We will always ask your permission before contacting him and will only do so if you agree.  We hope that you will agree for the reasons just given.

It is important that you bring with you all pills and medications that you are currently taking.  It is important that your anaesthetist knows what you are taking, so that he can give you an appropriate anaesthetic, which will not interact with your tablets.

Excessive consumption of alcohol can cause bleeding during and after the operation.  It is better not to drink at all before the operation but if you feel the need, please do not have more than one pint of beer, or one short, on the evening before your operation is carried out.  If you smoke, you are more likely to develop a chest infection after your operation.  Any reduction in cigarette consumption is helpful.  Ideally, you should stop smoking completely from the time of your first consultation or for that period of time advised by your surgeon.  Smoking has an adverse effect on the outcome of many surgical procedures.

Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) and face-lifting operations required you to stop smoking for 6 weeks prior to your operation being carried out.  Do not lie to your surgeon about smoking.  The result of doing so could be severe.

Your anaesthetist will ask you for details of your teeth.  What he wants to know is whether or not you have any crowns, bridges or cosmetic dentistry, which will require him to use a different technique.  Teeth can be and often are, damaged by failure of the patient in informing the anaesthetist that crowns or bridges are present.

The possibility of damage to teeth during anaesthesia is remote, if you have given full dental information prior to your anaesthetic.

Your surgeon will tell you when you can expect to go home after your operation.  If you are discharged on the day of your operation, it is dangerous for you to drive, operate appliances, or machinery.  Long journeys by public transport can be exhausting, even after a minor operation.  It is therefore advisable for you to arrange to be collected by a friend or relative.  You may also find it helpful to stay with someone overnight.  You should not drink alcohol for 48 hours after your anaesthetic or for that period of time advised by your surgeon post operatively.

Each anaesthetist uses a slightly different method.  It is not therefore possible to describe precisely, what will happen.  The following description, will however, give you some idea of what to expect:

Before your operation your anaesthetist will wish to see you.  He will discuss your medical history and will examine your heart and lungs.  A nurse will already have taken your temperature and blood pressure.  Some patients may also have a heart tracing taken (ECG).

The anaesthetist will decide whether this is necessary on the basis of your age, medical history and the examination.

Conversely so, you should not worry if your anaesthetist does not take an ECG reading.  This simply means that your obvious good health obviates its necessity.  An ECG is taken as an added precaution, and you should not assume that the anaesthetist thinks you are ill.  Before an ECG is taken, he will explain why he thinks it is necessary, and afterwards will tell you what it shows.  You will then have a chance to discuss you anaesthetic.  Many people worry unnecessarily because they have head “dreadful stories”.

Modern anaesthetics are extremely safe, and we hope that you will feel free to ask as many questions as you like so that we can set your mind at rest.  You may also be written up for some sleeping tablets, which are optional, but are often helpful the night before an operation.

Before your operation you may be given a pre-med.  This is usually a tablet, but in certain circumstances may be an injection.  The pre-med will make you pleasantly drowsy and reduce your anxiety.  Although you will have been starving in preparation for your operation, it is perfectly in order for you to drink a small amount of water to help you swallow the tablets.  At about this time you will be asked to put on a theatre gown, and to remove all jewellery, except your wedding ring, which will be covered with tape.  You should only wear the gown and your lower undergarment.
About ten minutes before your operation, you will be asked to get onto a trolley and taken to the anaesthetic room, which is next door to the theatre.  The anaesthetic nurse will confirm with you the operation you are having, and will then put on you a blood pressure cuff, and small stickers, which will allow your anaesthetist to monitor your heart beat whilst you are sleeping.

You will then be anaesthetised.  This will involve a small injection in your hand, wrist or below.  You probably will not feel the injection at all, but if you do, it will be no worse than scratching yourself.  You will be asleep within twenty seconds after the injection.

Some people feel a little dizzy just before they fall asleep, others fall asleep instantaneously.  Each person reacts differently, but the majority of our patients do not find our anaesthetic procedure either disturbing or unpleasant.

Whilst you are asleep your anaesthetist will be looking after you all the time.  His sole duty is your safety and welfare.  Several sophisticated electronic monitoring devices are used to assist your anaesthetist.  These constantly monitor your heartbeat, blood pressure, and the quality of anaesthetic being given.

All the machines are fitted with alarms to give your anaesthetist early indication of the very rare occurrence when an abnormality may arise.  This allows the abnormality to be corrected.

When the operation is over, your anaesthetist will wake you up.  By the time you become aware of your surroundings you will be in a special recovery room.

A nurse will be with you until you are completely awake.  You will still be having your heart rate and blood pressure measured at regular intervals by automatic machines.  When you are fully awake (usually about 15 minutes) you will be lifted back into your own bed where you may drift back into natural sleep.  Even though you will not be allowed out of the recovery room until we are confident that your anaesthetic has worn off, it is quite common not to remember anything until you wake from this natural sleep.

Most of these operations are not nearly as painful as your might imagine.  Often the pain can be relieved by simple tablets such as Paracetamol.  Stronger painkillers are always available should you need them.  The nurses will ask you at regular intervals if you are feeling discomfort, or pain, but you may ask for painkillers at any time.

Questions

Are there any risks associated with a general anaesthetic?

Every anaesthetic carries a small risk.  The risk is minimal provided that you are in the fittest possible condition at the time of your anaesthetic, you have ensured that your anaesthetist is fully aware f your medical history and current medication and that you are starved at the time of your operation.  You can help by being honest about your medical history and any previous anaesthetic difficulties.

If your anaesthetist is fully informed he can choose the best anaesthetic for your personal needs.  If there is a risk associated with your anaesthetic, you anaesthetist will discuss it fully with you.  Almost all problems can be overcome, although your operation may have to be postponed for a few weeks.  Postponement of an operation is always a disappointment for the patient.  We understand this, and would only suggest it if we felt that it would add to your safety.

Will I wake up at the end of the operation?

Yes, you will.  There are only a few reasons why patients do not wake up at the end of an anaesthetic.  Most are for medical reasons, which can be anticipated and treated, provided we know your medical history beforehand.  Very rarely does an accident occur.

Almost all accidents occur because the anaesthetist is inexperienced and fails to monitor the patient properly.  Your anaesthetic will be administered by a senior anaesthetist who has passed all the examinations and is employed as a consultant in the NHS.  The monitoring apparatus used at this hospital is all up to the minute technology.

Will I wake up in the middle of the operation?

No.  This problem nearly always occurs in ladies who are having a light anaesthetic for a Caesarean section.  Because the baby’s safety must also be considered, it is vital that the least possible anaesthetic is given.  Sometimes an anaesthetic that is suitable for the baby is too little for the mother.

When you have your operation, the anaesthetist has only you to consider and you will be given as much anaesthetic as you need.  Waking during anaesthesia does not occur often.  It is a fear you need not have at this hospital.

Some operations can, in suitable cases, be performed under local anaesthesia.  The patient is awake and only the part of the body being operated on is anaesthetised.  If this method of anaesthesia is used, you will not need to starve and your medical problems are less important.

Another type of anaesthetic we like to use is sedation therapy.  Instead of a full general anaesthetic, a local anaesthesia is used but with the addition of safe drugs which thoroughly relax you.  If you are awake during your operation, you won’t remember, or feel anything.  However, most patients doze, remembering nothing until they wake up in their own bed.

Many people do not like to be awake during an operation, or even the thought of being awake, even though they will not be able to see the operation itself.  If you feel that you are one of these people, but have been advised to have a local anaesthetic, sedation therapy is for you.  If you are given a sedative, you must be starved prior to your operation.

YOU SHOULD NOT DRIVE OR DRINK ALCOHOL FOR AT LEAST 12 HOURS AFTER THE OPERATION.

This information has been prepared to help you understand your anaesthetic.  If you are worried in any way about what you have read, please contact the hospital so that a further explanation can be given.

We hope that you will be pleased by your new appearance.  Our aim is to make your stay at the hospital as pleasant and trouble-free as possible.

We hope this information has answered most of your questions.  If it hasn’t please jot down any concerns you may have which can be dealt with either by telephoning us on 0800 0281 329 so you can elect to take your enquiry further, during your consultation.  If you do attend for a consultation please feel free to bring along a relative or friend whose judgement you trust, if you feel their presence would support you.

Photographs

Many patients express disappointment at the fact that these notes do not contain photographs taken prior to and following surgery.  The use of photographs projecting “only favourable results” is misleading and such photographs bear no relationship to the surgical result, which can be obtained apart from the patient so depicted.

Photographs of patients show only what was possible in that particular case.  There is no guarantee that you will fare as well, or won’t do better.  If you are interested in seeing photographic examples of your surgeons work, ask for them during your consultation when he can positively ensure that no confusion is allowed to exist.

About our In-House Therapist

Suzie has studied and qualified in many therapies, among them: Psychotherapy, Hypnotherapy, Neuro-Linguistic Programming, Emotional Freedom Technique, Anatomy, Physiology and Physical Therapies.

Suzie has worked extensively on studying the effects of thoughts, life experiences and stress on individuals.  Now an Eclectic Therapist, she works with a wide range of clients at varying levels; from deep seated emotional issues to Image Consultancy.  Suzie’s extensive range of skills have been nurtured through her varied background and experience.  Having worked as a model for several years, she then moved into Theatre and TV, later training as a make-up artist.  It is hardly surprising; therefore, that Suzie is passionate about looking your best, feeling your best and being your best.  She is engaging, warm, grounded and potent individual with a wicked sense of humour.

More recently, Suzie has been working as a trainer and facilitator for key corporate organisations.

Don’t miss the opportunity to work with this unique therapist and coach who is keenly aware of the thoughts and feelings of those who wish to make a change.

A quote from Suzie:-

“Many years ago I had a cosmetic procedure.  Whilst I was very pleased with the result, I realise now that I would have benefited in having a caring professional to help support me in addressing other psychological issues that were present, I did eventually seek out a therapist and coach who worked with me, enabling me to take control of my life and make the most of myself and my opportunities.  Seeing the results from people who take time to work with a therapist and coach encouraged me in the belief that what I am doing is worthwhile and valid”.

Our Methodology

Has four main influences in which our therapist and coach is fully qualified and able to support you:

Life Coaching

• Identifying goals and working towards them
• Overcoming any obstacles on the way
• Often used in conjunction with other therapies
• Promoting personal responsibility
• Understanding the techniques
• Putting into operation new ways of being

Hypnosis

• One of the most powerful tools to aid relaxation and de-stress
• Allowing positive suggestions deep into your sub-conscious
• Giving lasting results

NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming)

• Understanding self and others
• Using a range of techniques towards significant improvement
• Helping you communicate more effectively
• Building relationships and rapport with others
• A very powerful technique when used with hypnosis

Psychotheraphy

• Using the essence of this therapy for coaching purposes
• Supporting more deep-rooted issues which sometimes occur

What you will gain from coaching

• Clarity
• Focus to fulfil your true potential
• A new found confidence and sense of self
• You will be empowered to go out and be the best you can be!

Making the most of your for the rest of your life

If you are considering a surgical procedure, it is quite normal to wish for an enhanced look.  Our therapist can also help you focus on the bigger picture, by discussing the psychological and emotional aspects, dealing with what is important to you: focusing on the thoughts, beliefs and feelings that run parallel to your decision.  In this way, you will gain the maximum advantage before, during and after cosmetic surgery, enabling you to make the right decision for the right reasons and with a realistic outcome.  In short, we will be concentrating not only on the “you” outside but also the “you” inside.

We have an extensive range of techniques that can guide, mentor and coach you through to:

• Personal well-being
• Making the most of yourself
• Professional success
• Understanding your strengths
• Achieving your goals
• Being the best you can
• Freeing you from guilt and limitations
• Increasing your self-confidence
• Losing weight (and keeping it off!)
• Eliminating fears and phobias
• Relieving stress

From a one-off session, discussing whether this is correct for you, to your decision to go ahead with surgery, our in-house therapist can help you from step one, supporting you through any fears and anxieties and any emotional issues.

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"Just a little note to say thank you for all your advice, support and care, I feel like a new person and it's down to you. Thank you again." - Becky