Although men and women share many similarities there are some things that are undeniably different and one of these things is how well we age. Aside from some of the physical changes that happen to our bodies as we get older, differences in the way the skin is made up mean that men and women age differently – there is no getting around this. Ladies, the bad news is that when it comes to the appearance of our skin, it is women whose skin ages faster than men’s.

New research looking at differences in how men and women age

The University of Vienna has been conducting an in-depth study focussed on evaluating the ageing process of men and women. They have found that “there is a noticeable acceleration of the appearance of wrinkles and sagging around the age of 50” and not only that, “they discovered that eyes appear smaller, nose and ears lengthen and faces become flatter due to loss of fat and thinning of the skin”. The factor that researchers feel is most likely to be contributing to this is the menopause, which typically begins around this age.

One of the hormonal changes that take places when the menopause begins is the reduction of oestrogen in the body. This hormone is important as it is responsible for helping the skin create collagen, which is a clever component within the skin that gives it its natural elasticity. Oestrogen reduces significantly during the first five years or so of the menopause, which can leave skin looking saggy, wrinkled and dull.

At the same time as this, the cheekbones begin to become less defined. It is believed that the bones actually begin to be re-absorbed by the body. Although this bone re-absorption affects both sexes, when it is coupled with the effects of the menopause the net effect is that women begin to age faster than men once they get to around 50 years old.

This research is supported by the US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health, which reports that up until around age 50, men and women typically age at a very similar rate. They concur that once the menopause kicks in the ageing process is accelerated for women.

Help is on hand

There are a variety of cosmetic surgery procedures that can help women who feel they have been unfairly aged by the menopause. Procedures such as a facelift are designed to work with the facial features, tightening the skin around the cheekbones which can help restore some of the diminishing structure and prominence of these features. A facelift will also help smooth out wrinkles and improve the appearance of excess facial skin.

The baby boomer generation is fuelling an increase in cosmetic surgery as they look to re-enter the online dating game. Procedures such as anti-wrinkle injections and liposuction are proving particularly popular for those aged over 55.

Here, we’ll look at the rising trend of baby boomers going under the knife and the main factors driving it.

Meeting the pressures of modern technology

Technology has changed the dating game significantly over the years. Now, it’s all about finding perfect selfies to highlight our best look. Millions of men and women are signed up to dating sites, which means in order to stand out, a lot of focus is placed onto how we look.

Apps such as Tinder, which encourage users to swipe left or right depending upon whether they like the look of a person, have increased the pressure on looking perfect. According to statistics released by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, almost 50,000 additional procedures were carried out on the baby boomer generation in 2018.

However, the pressure of modern technology isn’t the only factor driving the increase in baby boomer cosmetic surgery.

Divorce rate is said to have doubled since 1990

It’s not only the pressures of modern technology which is causing the spike in cosmetic surgery in older patients. Divorce rates have also doubled since 1990. As fewer people stay married for life these days, millions of men and women aged over 55 are finding themselves back in the dating game.

There are an estimated 20 million baby boomers currently signed up to dating websites. Many can also find getting back into the dating game daunting, so they opt to undergo cosmetic surgery to increase their confidence.

It’s not all about boosting confidence, however. A lot of baby boomers today are vibrant and dedicated to living their lives to the fullest. They want their looks to reflect how vibrant and youthful they still feel. They take care of themselves by eating right and exercising regularly and simply want a few tweaks to ensure they look as good on the outside as they feel inside.

Which cosmetic surgery procedures are proving most popular?

The procedures baby boomers are opting to undergo largely include breast augmentation, hair transplantation, eyelid surgery, facelifts and liposuction. However, there has also been a spike in minimal and non-invasive techniques such as fillers and anti-wrinkle injections.

The procedures aren’t being carried out to drastically make baby boomers look younger. Instead, they’re simply focusing on looking their best. Those who are newly divorced can find it intimidating getting back into the dating game so undergoing a little cosmetic surgery can help them to regain their confidence.

It’s no surprise baby boomers are sparking a rise in cosmetic surgery. Today’s culture is a lot different from how it used to be. Older celebrities have also taken away the taboo of undergoing cosmetic surgery. It is certainly a lot more accepted today than it used to be and in the right circumstances, tweaks to the appearance can help to boost confidence and self-esteem.

The latest cosmetic surgery figures released by the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS), has revealed a small rise in the number of procedures carried out in 2018. According to the figures, tummy tucks and liposuction procedures saw the biggest increases, up by 18% and 12% respectively.

The continued popularity of cosmetic surgery is said to partly be down to celebrities being open about the work they’ve had done, while the popularity of shows such as Love Island is also contributing. The new series has just started this week and has already received criticism for a lack of body diversity within its line-up, surgeons are concerned it will spark a fresh rise in those seeking quick fixes.

High-street and DIY non-surgical procedures on the rise

One of the most worrying things the recent audit revealed, is the rise in high-street and DIY non-surgical procedures. Many patients do not realise the dangers these procedures pose. There is a common misconception that non-surgical procedures are safe and easy to perform such as Botox. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth.

Non-surgical procedures still carry a lot of potential risks; particularly if they are performed incorrectly. BAAPS is concerned over the figures and is calling for additional regulations to be introduced for non-healthcare professionals offering these types of treatments.

Male cosmetic surgery demand dipping

While female cosmetic surgery continues to rise, the number of men going under the knife is falling. According to the audit, male cosmetic surgery fell overall by 4.7% in 2018. However, liposuction remains the most popular procedure, rising 9% across both genders.

The figures also suggest that men are opting instead for non-surgical treatments. Botox and minimally invasive treatments that tweak the appearance, rather than dramatically alter it, are becoming more popular with UK males.

Patients urged not to undergo cosmetic surgery lightly

While cosmetic surgery can deliver many great benefits to patients, BAAPS urges them not to make the decision lightly. Shows such as Love Island are making cosmetic procedures appear trivial and commonplace. However, there are many risks involved and it’s important you’re undergoing a cosmetic surgery procedure for the right reasons and with realistic expectations of what it will achieve.

It’s also important to understand all the potential risks and complications of surgery. Patients should also ensure they are choosing a reliable surgeon to carry out the procedure. While DIY and high-street non-surgical treatments can be tempting, they come with a significant amount of risks.

If you are considering undergoing cosmetic surgery, it’s important to book a consultation with an appropriately qualified and experienced plastic surgeon. BAAPS is one of the UK’s leading plastic surgery associations and members, such as Mr Nigel Horlock, must be on the GMC’s plastic surgery specialist registry, be able to hold a consultant-level position in the NHS and they must also undergo annual safety audits of their work. Prospective patients can, therefore, be assured that a BAAPS member has all the appropriate training and qualifications.

Breast augmentation has remained one of the most popular cosmetic procedures for decades. Used to increase the size of the breasts, it can also be effective at creating much better alignment and symmetry. However, for those looking to reshape or reduce the size of their breasts, a breast reduction or breast lift would be the better option.

There is some confusion over how a breast lift and breast reduction procedure differ. If you’re trying to determine which procedure is right for you, here you’ll discover the main differences between a breast lift and breast reduction.

What is a breast lift?

Breast uplift procedures are designed to reshape and lift the breasts. It’s a particularly ideal option for women experiencing sagging in the breasts, whether due to age or breastfeeding. The volume and shape of the breasts will be restored, and the nipples and areolas will typically be repositioned, as well as made smaller to produce more natural results.

With this procedure, the surgeon only removes excess skin, rather than breast tissue.

What is a breast reduction?

A breast reduction is designed to purely reduce the volume within the breasts. Rather than simply eliminating excess skin, the surgeon will also remove excess breast tissue, as well as fat. A lot of patients also experience a more lifted appearance once the size of the breasts has been reduced. They can also choose whether or not they want to reduce the size of their areolas too.

It is largely beneficial for women who want or need to reduce the size of their breasts to correct medical issues, or for personal preference. Larger breasts can be uncomfortable, adding a lot of extra weight the body has to carry. So, a reduction can help to ease the pain, helping patients resume normal activities.

How to choose the right cosmetic breast procedure for you

The type of procedure that’s right for you will depend upon what you’re looking to achieve. If you simply want to make the breasts appear perkier and more youthful, a breast lift would be ideal. However, if you’re looking to significantly reduce the size of the breasts, a breast reduction is the best option.

In some cases, a breast lift and reduction can be carried out simultaneously. Your surgeon will discuss the options available to you during an initial consultation. After talking through your expectations and desired results, they will inform you which option is better suited.

Both procedures are straightforward and require downtime of around two to four weeks. They each come with their own risks and complications too, so it’s important to make sure you do your research before deciding whether the procedures are right for you.

Choosing the best cosmetic breast surgeon

Although breast lift and breast reduction procedures are considered to be relatively straightforward, it’s still vital to ensure you’re choosing a reliable and skilled cosmetic breast surgeon. This reduces the risks and also ensures you receive natural-looking results.

Book a consultation with Mr Nigel Horlock today to discuss your breast surgery options; he will be able to offer unbiased, expert advice on which procedure is best for you.

Cosmetic surgery has significantly increased in popularity over the past decade. The number of patients, both male and female, opting to go under the knife has risen dramatically due to pressures of social media and the increase in acceptance towards cosmetic procedures.

However, not all patients actually need cosmetic surgery, and many are left confused over whether now is the right time to go under the knife. Many patients worry they are too old, while a lot of younger people are opting to have anti-ageing treatments they don’t need. So, is there a right age to have cosmetic surgery?

Guidelines for anti-ageing cosmetic surgery

Anti-ageing procedures such as a facelift, eye bag removal or brow lift are some of the most common procedures carried out. However, there is a lot of misunderstanding regarding when these types of procedures should be carried out.

In terms of an upper age limit, if you’re fit and well and have realistic expectations of what the final outcome will be, then excellent results can be achieved for women in their 60s or even 70s.

Women in their 30s typically do not require a facelift or other anti-ageing cosmetic surgery, but there are non-surgical facial rejuvenation treatments, such as Botox and dermal fillers, that can help preserve a more youthful appearance for longer. Interestingly, women in their 40s will often get a better, longer-lasting result than patients who delay surgery until later as the skin is more elastic.

Body contouring surgery guidelines

Cosmetic breast surgery procedures such as the breast augmentation or breast lift are very popular with women of all ages. It’s true that breast augmentation is popular with younger women who may have always been dissatisfied with their breast development, but older women who have seen changes to their breast shape and volume due to the ageing process or pregnancy are often keen to have a discreet enhancement later on.

Breast lift patients tend to be older, as the sagging of skin and breast tissues usually happens over time, but we also see younger women who have experienced extreme weight fluctuations that wish to lift and reshape their breasts once they have achieved a stable body weight.

A tummy tuck, on the other hand, would be best carried out at age 35 and over. This is because the procedure is best suited to those who aren’t looking to have any children in the future as this can further stretch the abdominal muscles and skin.

Cosmetic surgery timing: what about non-invasive procedures?

Non-invasive procedures, such as Botox and lip fillers, have become extremely popular in recent years. They have particularly attracted a young target audience, with patients in their 20s opting to have these facial enhancements in an effort to emulate their idols on social media who now speak openly about undergoing these treatments.

The trouble is, these types of treatments are best suited to those in their 30s or 40s. Patients in their 20s show very few signs of ageing, so the treatments are purely unnecessary. They may seem like ideal, fast procedures, but they do have a range of risks and complications. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid having any procedures until you absolutely need them.

While there is no set age as to when you should consider going under the knife, the above are just some of the guidelines you should follow before having a procedure. If you’re still not sure whether you are at the right age to undergo cosmetic surgery, book a consultation with an experienced and qualified plastic surgeon. Mr Nigel Horlock will always offer unbiased, expert advice on whether a cosmetic surgery procedure is the right choice for you at this time.

Cosmetic clinics which are members of the Joint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners (JCCP), will now need to screen patients for mental health problems. After meeting with NHS England, the JCCP agreed to include the new measures within its practice.

The move comes as an increasing number of young people suffering from mental health issues, turn to plastic surgery to attempt to overcome their body hang-ups. Under the new guidelines, cosmetic clinics will screen patients for mental health issues, referring them to the NHS for treatment where necessary.

Quick fix cosmetic procedures don’t help solve mental health issues

The new screening procedure guidelines are set to help those who are psychologically vulnerable.

In particular, patients suffering from conditions such as Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), often turn to cosmetic surgery in the hope of fixing what they perceive to be wrong. However, in most cases, the perceived physical flaws these patients think they are suffering with, are purely in the mind. This means, even when the appearance is altered, it won’t change how the patient feels about their looks. In some cases, it could even make the condition worse.

A top doctor from the NHS claims cosmetic clinics aren’t doing enough to protect these patients, calling for screening to be introduced.

New measures hope to combat issues early

Experts hope the new measures introduced for members of JCCP will help to combat issues with mental health early on.

If patients are assessed and found to be suffering from mental health conditions, they can be referred to the relevant NHS facilities if required. This will help to ensure more patients are receiving help early on, rather than the NHS being left to pick up the pieces from patients who have undergone surgery which has further impacted their mental health.

The new measures will include practitioners undergoing online training to recognise the symptoms and signs of mental illness.

Government urges all clinics to follow suit

At the moment, only members of JCCP are required to carry out mental health screening. Therefore, the government is urging independent clinics to follow suit.

It’s not just surgical procedures practitioners should screen for either. Doctors claim even non-invasive procedures such as Botox and lip fillers shouldn’t be carried out before screening is completed. This is because a lot of patients suffering from mental health disorders are likely to start by undergoing simple, non-invasive procedures.

All patients need to be aware of the risks

It’s not just patients suffering from mental health issues who need to be aware of the risks of non-invasive procedures. According to statistics, the number of complaints regarding non-surgical procedures has increased by as much as 600% in recent years. This is largely because many patients don’t understand the risks involved.

Overall, these new guidelines have been branded a major step forward, but this still relies on individual clinics and practitioners choosing to adopt these measures. One way for patients to protect themselves is to ensure that their practitioner is a member of an association committed to ensuring patient safety; Mr Nigel Horlock is a member of BAAPS and BAPRAS, the two leading independent plastic surgery associations in the UK.

New figures have recently been released in the US, highlighting the most popular cosmetic procedures of 2018. While the majority of surgical procedures focused on the body, there were a couple of facial procedures which made it to the top five.

Blepharoplasty, or eyelid lift surgery, came in at number three, with a staggering 206,529 procedures carried out. Although this is a 1% decrease from the year before, it shows just how popular the procedure still is.

What is blepharoplasty surgery and what are its benefits?

Blepharoplasty is a type of surgery used to enhance the appearance of the eyelids. It can be carried out on the upper, lower, or both eyelids. It can be used to simply alter the cosmetic appearance of the eyelids, or to improve functionality.

eyelid lift

The surgery can be used to correct a number of issues, including loose or sagging skin, dropping lower eyelids, fatty deposits which result in puffiness underneath the eyes, and for excess skin or wrinkles in the lower eyelid.

It’s common for the eyelids to sag with age as the skin loses its elasticity. Generally speaking, surgery on the upper eyelids can help you to appear more youthful as well as improve vision, while surgery on the lower eyelids can reduce puffiness and wrinkles.

Understanding eyelid lift surgery

Blepharoplasty surgery can be carried out under either general or local anaesthetic. Cuts will usually be made along the natural line of the eyelids. Then, the surgeon will remove excess skin, sagging muscle and extra fat if required. Afterwards, the skin will be stitched up. It’s a fairly straightforward procedure, though it is recommended you choose a surgeon who has extensive experience in this type of surgery.

Choosing the right surgeon will ensure you experience the best results and reduce the risks and complications associated with the procedure.

The risks and complications

Like any surgical procedure, there are risks and complications of blepharoplasty that you need to be aware of. Scarring is one of the leading concerns, although most will fade within 12 to 18 months after the surgery. There is the risk that instead of fading, the scarring could become thicker, painful or red and additional surgery may be required to correct it.

Other risks and complications include:

  • Bleeding
  • Swelling, pain and bruising
  • Infection
  • Healing troubles

Mr Nigel Horlock will run through all of the risks and complications involved during your consultation. In order to reduce these risks, patients should only undergo the procedure when they are generally healthy.

Is there an alternative option?

As there are a lot of different cosmetic surgery procedures available these days, there may be an alternative option to blepharoplasty. For example, if the eyebrows and forehead are sagging, it could make the eyelids appear as though they are sagging too. In this instance, a brow lift would resolve the problem.

So, before opting for a blepharoplasty procedure, patients are advised to undergo a consultation to determine exactly which type of procedure would prove most beneficial. Why not call us today to book a consultation and discover the best course of treatment to fit your requirements?

When patients undergo surgical cosmetic surgery, one of the biggest concerns is scarring. All cosmetic surgery procedures involve incisions made into the skin so you will always be left with a scar, which will hopefully flatten and fade over time but will never disappear entirely. Now, researchers from the Binghamton University, of the State University of New York, have come up with a new device which could help to minimise scarring from cosmetic surgery.

cosmetic surgery scarring

So, what is this new device and how likely are we to see it on the market?

The device is said to be able to determine the orientation of skin tensions lines. Skin tension lines are used to aid cosmetic surgeons to make the least conspicuous cuts. If a cut is made in the wrong place or direction, it could lead to the development of keloid scarring. However, if cuts are made in the right place, it helps the wounds to heal quicker and scarring will be minimised. That is where this new device comes in.

It is able to accurately measure the skin’s tension lines. While there are other devices which can currently do this already on the market, they typically need more than one measurement. The devices which do only require one measurement, are also limited to measuring an accuracy of 45 degrees. So, this new device is considered much more accurate and reliable than the existing methods.

The new device is capable of providing accurate measurements, unique to each individual patient, within just a few seconds.

How can it help with cosmetic surgery scarring?

At the moment, surgeons rely upon either manual manipulation or skin tension line maps. There are a lot of different skin tension line maps to choose from and manual manipulation can be inaccurate

However, there is still a way to go before the device will hit the market. Further trials involving an increased number of patients will be required to determine just how effective it is. Researchers are then hopeful that it will enter the mainstream market, becoming a commonplace piece of equipment in operating theatres.

In the meantime, there are certain steps your cosmetic surgeon will make to minimise scarring.

How your cosmetic surgeon minimises cosmetic surgery scarring

During your consultation, Mr Nigel Horlock will take a full medical history to rule out any pre-existing medical conditions, such as certain thyroid problems or diabetes, that could affect the body’s ability to heal. He will also ask how previous scars have healed as some patients suffer from keloid scarring; this is where the scar tissue grows excessively, and the scar is red, raised and larger than the original wound.

Your cosmetic surgery procedure will also be carefully planned, particularly in terms of placement of the incisions. If possible, they will be sited in the natural creases and folds of the body, but also Mr Horlock will take into account the skin tension lines to ensure optimal scarring.

He will also advise wearing a specially designed compression garment in the post-surgery period as they support the integrity of the wound as it is healing and helps to prevent the overgrowth of scarring tissue.

During your pre-surgery consultation, Mr Horlock will discuss the potential scarring that you can expect as well as give advice on how best to promote the healing process and minimise scarring. Call 02380 914504 to arrange your cosmetic surgery consultation.

After the announcement regarding Channel 4’s newly commissioned The Surjury TV show, plastic surgeons have expressed their concern over the message it delivers. The show sees young people put in front of a panel of judges who vote on whether or not each person should undergo cosmetic surgery.

The concern is that it trivialises the surgery and can potentially influence the younger generation to undergo procedures they may not even need. While cosmetic surgery can prove valuable at boosting confidence and self-esteem, when performed for the wrong reason, it could have negative consequences.

Here, we’ll look at the right reasons to choose cosmetic surgery.

You want to improve your confidence

One of the best reasons to opt for cosmetic surgery is to improve your confidence. However, it’s important to note that if you’re suffering from depression or a condition such as Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), cosmetic surgery might not be the right choice for you.

While it can certainly improve confidence, if the problems stem from a mental illness, having the surgery may not provide you with the same level of confidence boost as you might expect. In fact, it could even make mental issues worse. So, it’s important to establish whether the surgery would simply boost your confidence, or whether you are using it as a solution for mental health issues.

You want to get it done for you

The ideal candidate for cosmetic surgery will have chosen to undergo the surgery after giving it serious thought. Is it something you’ve wanted to have done for a while now or did somebody suggest it for you?

A lot of people want to undergo cosmetic surgery to make somebody else happy, whether that be a partner or a family member. However, if you have cosmetic surgery to make somebody else happy, the chances are you won’t be happy with the results. It has to be something you want to have done, as well as something you’ve considered for a long time.

You want to look younger

Cosmetic surgery can do a lot of things, but one of its biggest advantages is helping you to look younger. There is a wide range of procedures, such as the facelift as well as many non-invasive ones that can minimise fine lines and wrinkles, as well as smooth out the complexion. A good cosmetic surgeon will ensure you still look like yourself, but just fresher and younger.

These are some of the best reasons to undergo cosmetic surgery. However, before deciding whether or not to go under the knife, it’s important to book a consultation with an experienced and qualified surgeon. During your consultation at Mr Nigel Horlock’s Southampton cosmetic surgery clinic, he will be able to assess your suitability for the procedure and whether you have realistic expectations about what surgery can achieve.

Having larger, fuller breasts isn’t always considered a good thing. Not only can they lead to embarrassment for some women, but they can also prove to be uncomfortable too. Larger breasts can link to back pain and it can be difficult finding clothing that fits properly. So, in these cases, a breast reduction may be a great option. Here, we’ll look at some the breast reduction benefits you could enjoy.

Breast reduction benefits: relieve neck and back pain

If your breasts are particularly large, they could be causing neck or back pain. This is particularly true if you have quite a small frame. The weight of the breasts can put a lot of pressure onto the neck, back and shoulders, as well as contribute towards poor posture. So, undergoing a breast reduction could help to ease the pain and take a lot of pressure off the body.

Breast reduction benefits: resolve issues with asymmetry

Often, women with larger breasts experience some degree of breast asymmetry. One breast could be larger or smaller than the other, and they may hang slightly differently too. A breast reduction can help to resolve any issues with asymmetry you may have, resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing cleavage. It will help you to achieve a shape and size that you are most comfortable with.

Breast reduction benefits: expect to feel more confident

If your larger breasts impact your confidence, you won’t be experiencing the best quality of life. Having a reduction can help you regain your confidence, enabling you to wear more flattering clothing, partake in activities you may have otherwise avoided, and make you feel much more comfortable within your own skin.

Breast reduction benefits: enjoy perkier breasts

Did you know that having a breast reduction can also give you perkier breasts? All reduction procedures tend to include a breast lift. This means, not only will you get that smaller size that you want, but they will also look perkier too.

Breast reduction benefits: exercise more and breathe better

Bigger breasts can cause a range of issues, and not being able to perform some types of exercises are just one of them. For example, you may find it difficult running, biking, lifting weights or hiking when your breasts are larger. Therefore, having a reduction can open up a wide range of different exercises you can start to do.

As an additional benefit, you’ll also find it much easier to breathe. The weight of larger breasts can place pressure onto the lungs, potentially causing breathing difficulties. After having a reduction, you’ll, therefore, find your breathing is much better, which will, in turn, benefit your overall health.

These are just some of the great benefits a breast reduction procedure can provide. As you can see, the procedure offers both cosmetic and practical benefits. The fact it can also improve your health is definitely a reason to consider having the procedure done. However, before booking a breast reduction, it’s crucial you undergo a consultation to establish whether or not it’s the right option for you.