Cosmetic Surgery Continues to Grow in Popularity in the UK

The number of cosmetic surgery procedures performed in the UK jumped during 2008 as both women and men took the decision to modify their body, primarily to improve their self-confidence.

Indeed, the amount of people opting to undertake cosmetic procedures has soared over the past five years. According to the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPs) a record number of 34,100 procedures were performed during 2008 - a rise of almost 320 per cent since 2003.

The most popular treatments during 2008 included female breast augmentation, rhinoplasty (nose) and tummy tucks, but another that is rapidly gaining in popularity - male breast reduction - also saw a 44 per cent rise in the number of procedures performed. Even though the vast majority of procedures are performed on women, BAAPs has discovered that the number performed on men is increasing year on year, and indeed the most popular procedure for men was rhinoplasty - alteration of the nose.

For women, the most popular cosmetic procedure is currently breast augmentation, which has seen an increase of 30 per cent over the figures recorded for the previous year. Almost 8,500 women opted for that treatment during 2008, with a further 3,300 opting for a tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty.

The most popular UK location to have cosmetic surgery is London, although regional clinics are rapidly gaining in popularity especially in larger cities such as Manchester, Liverpool and Glasgow. And those cosmetic surgery specialists that aren't regionally based still may offer regional consultations, with the surgery ultimately performed in London.

Although nine out of ten cosmetic procedures are currently carried out on women, the amount of men opting to go under the knife for cosmetic reasons almost doubled during 2008. Reasons for undergoing cosmetic surgery can vary, but for the majority of patients it comes down to improving their confidence, regardless of their gender. Whether an alteration to the size and shape of their nose, increase or decrease in breast size, or the removal of unsightly fat and skin around the stomach, these can all lead to people feeling better about the way they look.

If you are considering cosmetic surgery in London - or any location within the UK for that matter - then make sure that the surgeon you intend to use is on the Special Register of the General Medical Council and FRCS(Plas) accredited. That way you can be assured that they are professionals who, as well as being skilled surgeons, understand the importance of safety and patient care.

When is Female Breast Reduction Necessary?

Most women have a breast size that is in standard proportion to their body. There are some women who have large beasts that can cause discomfort or even pain. For those women, choosing a breast reduction becomes a viable option.

A female breast reduction, also referred to as a reduction mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of extra fat, glandular tissue, from the breast thereby reducing breast weight and size.

Many refer to the process of breast reduction is usually considered cosmetic surgery because the patient's life is not in danger. In other words, there is not a significant life or death risk that requires the reduction. However, there are cases where large breasts can cause physical pain and emotional anguish.

Reasons for Breast Reduction
Many women choose breast reduction as a way of alleviating or eliminating chronic back, neck, and shoulder pain. Women who receive the surgery will improve mobility and functionality. There is less skin irritation in the folds of the breast. As well, those women with very large breasts find that the procedure improves their physical appearance. Their self confidence is boosted. They find themselves better able to find clothes that fit. They are also able to participate in more sports activities. There is some evidence that a breast reduction may decrease the chances of developing breast cancer. Although research into breast reduction and breast cancer is still in process, there is some evidence that breast reduction may reduce the chances of acquiring breast cancer.

Breast Reduction Qualifications
To qualify for cosmetic surgery, you will normally require a referral from a general practitioner. You will then consult with a plastic surgeon and possibly a psychiatrist. They will decide if you qualify for the surgery. During the consultation, your surgeon will explain the risks associated with your particular case. Risks can include scarring and possibly different sized breasts, and the inability to breast feed. The surgical process will also be explained. Your skin condition, age, size, and shape of your breasts are important considerations when assessing your candidacy for surgery. The surgeon will then examine and photograph your breasts for use during surgery. You may also be required to have a mammogram.

Surgical Procedure
The patient is normally given a general anesthetic. An incision is made around the areola, the brownish area around the nipple. Then, the incision is moved down the breast and along the crease beneath the breast. The surgeon removes the excess fat, glandular tissue, and skin from the breast. The length of the surgery can vary from 2 to 4 hours.

Results of Breast Reduction
The type of breast reduction surgical method that is used often will usually determine results. After surgery, breasts will be much smaller. The results are immediate as patients have reported an improvement in comfort and less pain. Scars and swelling can vary and can last a varying amount of time. Scars can be covered using clothing, bras, and swim wear. Patients have reported that within a month, there pain has almost completely diminished, their scars faded within about six months, their clothing fit better, and they have an improved self-image.

If you have health and self esteem issues regarding the size of your breasts. It is important to have an in-depth discussion with your medical professionals that includes your doctor, plastic surgeon, and psychiatrist/psychologist. By doing so, you will maintain reasonable expectations regarding the outcome of the surgery.