Page 2 – Seoul Guide Medical

Mar 10

Thread Lifting Procedure – Complete Guide to Thread Face Lift

By sgm | Non-Surgical Procedures | No Comments

Throughout life, the inevitable process of aging occurs. Our bodies will change over time and begin to show the signs of aging. A common feature of someone who is aging is sagging of the skin, both throughout the body and face. In the past, many invasive surgeries have been created as an attempt to reverse the effects of time. However, many people find that they do not have the time to invest in a lengthy recovery, nor do they wish to undergo surgery. If this is the case for you, you may be the ideal candidate for a Thread Lift.

What is a Thread Lift?

A thread lift or threading face lift is a simple procedure that involves lifting the skin using sutures that were traditionally only used for surgery but maintaining them hidden under the skin’s surface. It is often referred to as a non-surgical face lift. With the developed techniques, this can be used to offer benefits similar to a facelift, with advantages such as minimal downtime, no scarring, reduced cost, less invasive, and less postoperative complications. This can be an excellent alternative if you are searching for lifting or rejuvenation of the skin.

Where can you have a thread lift?

Thread lifts are considered as non-invasive facelifts generally; therefore, some common areas for the procedure to be done are:

Lower face area and jawline
Mid-face and cheek area
Peri-ocular area (eye area)
Neck area

However, thread lifts can also be extended to the body for areas that tend to show significant sagging, such as:

The inner thighs
The inner armpits
The butt

Some of the most popular areas for most patients include;

neck thread lift
nose thread lift
lip thread lift
brow thread lift
eye thread lift
thread butt lift

What happens during a thread lifting procedure?

As most procedures should always begin, you will have a consultation with your surgeon about whether you are an appropriate candidate and all your treatment options. If your surgeon agrees that this is the best option for you, then you can move forward to the initial steps of the treatment.

Some of the main precautions prior to treatment include:
No smoking.
No drinking alcohol 48 hours before the treatment.
No make-up or creams should be applied on the day of the procedure

1. First, the appropriate thread must be determined.

This depends mainly on your current skin situation as well as the region you want to have the treatment done in. The threads can be divided into three categories:

Absorbable

Options: Polydioxanone thread (PDO), Silhouette Soft thread, and fine thread with bi-directional absorbable cone.
Notes: POD is often referred to as a Korean Face Lift or POD Thread Lift, due to its creation by a Korean surgeon. It is considered as the most common option nowadays. If you choose to have the procedure done in Korea, you are guaranteeing the best results in the world as well as extremely competitive prices. PDO is also associated with improved circulation and collagenization, which improves the texture of the skin and corrects mild wrinkling by producing new collagen. In addition, it helps with the activation of fibroblasts, which will provide more elastin. Specifically, the effect of polydioxanone (PDO) was also found to encourage the body to create natural hyaluronic acid.

2. Smooth/Non-absorbable

Barbed; Bi-directional (APTOS thread, Woffles thread) or Unidirectional (Contour thread, Silhouette lift thread) for longer sutures, cogged (for shorter sutures).

Notes: Bi-directional is less likely to move because of support from both ends, though it is not anchored. Uni-directional is easier to fix if there is asymmetry since they are anchored.

Non-Barbed

Notes: Easier to fix if there is asymmetry.

It should be noted short sutures include PDO, Plain, Screw, Spiral, and Cog thread, while long sutures include APTOS, Silhouette Lift, Silhouette Soft, Woffles or Contour thread.

2. Prep before treatment:

a numbing cream may be used for shorter sutures, while local anesthesia will be used for longer sutures.

3. Treatment:

thread lifting process

Depending on the exact method you chose, this will vary slightly, but on a general note, the thread will be laced under the skin in the desired area of treatment. This allows the thread to be invisible. The procedure itself should last anywhere from 30-60 minutes, depending on how many areas you are treating, and the extent of sagging. The more complicated the case, the more threads that will have to be used.

Who is a good candidate to have the thread lifting procedure?

Fat Grafting

This procedure can be done on both older and younger adults. The principal patients that will benefit from this procedure are adults that have less disrupted skin elasticity and appropriate facial volume. Significant factors to consider for this treatment are:

– Age

– Health

– Degree of skin laxity

– The thickness of the skin

– Adequacy of facial volume

Thread Lift Recovery

This is an outpatient procedure; therefore, you would be discharged the same day of your treatment. Depending on the kind of thread and suture length you opted for, you may experience some swelling and bruising. Sleeping with the head slightly elevated will also help with swelling. In this case, it is recommended to apply a cold compress for the first day or two after treatment to help swelling decrease.

You should avoid movement of the area (such as smiling for a facial thread lift). If you must sneeze or cough, try to hold the face to support the threads for the first week. You should not put make-up on for 3-5 days after the procedure or shave for at least ten days. Try to follow a soft or liquid diet, but avoid straws also to avoid too much movement of the facial muscles. You should avoid smoking and drinking alcohol, if possible.

Thread Lift Before and After

Figure 1:Absorbable: PDO Thread Lift (for both the woman above and below)

thread lifting before and after 2

Figure 2: Non-Absorbable: Barbed (Woffles) sutures.

If you have been searching for an alternative method to address any sagging skin, but are hesitant to have a full procedure done or have no time for the recovery that it would require, a thread lift may be the best choice for you.

There are a variety of techniques, as well as many areas that can be addressed. Make sure to speak to a board-certified surgeon who can help you create the best plan of action for your specific needs. PDO remains the top choice for many patients who chose to move forward with the treatment.

As recommended earlier, coming to Korea can both guarantee results due to its creation and refinement in the country as well as the competitive prices that the plastic surgery market offers there currently. If you choose to come to Korea for your procedure, feel free to contact Seoul Guide Medical, who can connect you to the top specialists in the country.

FAQ :

How long does a thread lift last?

From most research, a safe assumption is that this procedure is not permanent, mainly because you cannot stop the natural process of aging. However, results can be considered long-lasting for appropriate patients, and due to the ease of this procedure, having repeat treatments can easily be done. 1-9 years was the general longevity of observable results. For patients that are younger with thicker skin and appropriate facial volume, 3-4 years was the average. In contrast, older patients with severe sagging reduced elasticity, and lack of volume had visible results for 1-2 years.

What is a thread lift procedure for the face?

As mentioned previously, a thread face lift can be extended to the face as well as other areas. Face areas are typically divided into lower face area and jawline, mid-face and cheek area, peri-ocular area (eye area), and the neck area.

Can I exercise after a thread lift?

You should wait around 1-3 weeks after the treatment to resume any vigorous exercise, your surgeon will advise you on how long exactly you should expect. This is to prevent your healing from becoming prolonged. Exercise can increase the heart rate, which causes blood flow to also increase to the area of treatment, which in turn can cause swelling.

Can you fly after a thread lift?

You should avoid flying 48-72 hours after your procedure. The air pressure in the air is larger than the ground. Therefore it is easy to cause blood pressure fluctuations. It can also potentially cause an infection due to the splitting of the wound, prolonging the recovery period.

Dec 06

Your Guide to Getting Zygoma Reduction in Korea

By sgm | Plastic Surgery | No Comments

Have you ever thought about reducing your cheekbones? There are many people just like you who have thought about reducing their cheekbones and have undergone plastic surgery to get the look they want. This article, created by the experts at Seoul Guide Medical, will explain in detail an overview of what cheekbone reduction entails.

What is the Zygomatic Bone?

The cheekbone, also known as the Zygomatic or Zygoma bone, determines a large part of the face. It shapes the face and therefore also determines the facial width. This bone can be reduced and shaped to create a smaller protrusion resulting in a more well-balanced look. South Korean plastic surgeons are the pioneers in this field and the experts in zygoma reduction.

Here are a few things you need to think of before packing your bags and coming to South Korea for zygoma reduction through Seoul Guide Medical.

What You Need to Know:

As mentioned above, the cheekbone is also known as the zygoma bone. This bone goes from the upper part of the cheek, below the eye, near the nose. Then it continues from the upper part of the cheek, below the eye to near the sideburn area.

The Surgery

With this surgery, there are a few steps the plastic surgeon will follow. However, each plastic surgeon has their own “handwriting” so it may differ slightly. Generally, the surgery will take about 1 hour to complete. Here is what you can expect by going through Seoul Guide Medical on your surgery day:

1) Our expert SGM in clinic consultant will take you through a final consultation and the paperwork needed to get your surgery.

2) You will enter the surgery area and undergo anesthesia. This means you will be asleep during the procedure and not feel pain. This procedure is usually done under general anesthesia which requires fasting beforehand for 6-8 hours normally but this can change depending on the doctor’s methods.

3) The surgeon will make one incision inside the mouth and a second incision on skin, near the sideburn to provide access to the zygomatic bone (cheekbone). If the bone is simply cut vertically, only a small reduction is possible in facial width. To maximize your own body’s potential, expert surgeons can make two distinctive cuts. The first cut, near the nose area, can have High-L Osteotomy. This methods calculates the maximal malar projection (MMP), and then the most protruded part of the cheekbone can be reduced. This ensures a 30-9 degree wide area reduction of the cheekbone. By contrast, the Low-L Osteotomy method makes the cut or fracture on the bottom side of the zygoma allow thus only allowing a 45-90 degree lateral area reduction. The result of this method is a non-optimal reduction in the cheekbone.

The next cut the surgeon makes is near the ear and sideburn. If the cut is done in a diagonal manner, the most amount of protrusion reduction can occur. If the cut is done in a perpendicular manner, the reduction in facial width will be less. After each cut, the excess zygomatic bone will be removed and the remaining bone pushed inwards.

4) The cheekbone is reattached in desired place and fixated with screws to make it secured and so it can heal on its own. Drains are usually placed as to prevent excess fluid build-up. These will be removed the day after surgery. These screws won’t set off any metal detection alarms, such as those at the airport.

5) The incisions are then closed with stitches and the healing process can begin.

This description can always change due to the patient’s needs. For this surgery, the bone needs to be double fixed and thus requires small screws with possible attaching plates.

Screws and plates might sound scary but it’s for your own benefit. These processes help the cheekbone to heal correctly without causing permanent damage. Dissolving screws and plates can also be used in cases like this but there isn’t a lot of research done on it yet. Possible issues could be infection due to low degradation. If an infection occurs and it is too severe, the plates need to be removed or if there is no plate, internal damage could occur. Therefore, we recommend the standard titanium screws, because we know that they work. It has proven itself over time.

Low-L Osteotomy and High-L Osteotomy

As described in the previous steps, there are two main methods to reduce cheekbone projection from the front part near the nose. This area has the greatest impact on the reduction of facial width so we will explain it in a bit more detail here.

There are 2 different kinds of cuts when it comes to this surgery. One is Low-L osteotomy, also known as Low-L, which is a cut at between 45-90 degrees. This is done by creating a cut towards the backside of the cheekbone’s highest point. However, an issue with this cut can be that there is not enough reduction and the change would be too small for the patient’s satisfaction.

The method that is mostly preferred is the High-L Osteotomy, also known just as High-L, which is a cut at between 30-90 degrees. This is done by creating a cut towards the front of the cheekbone. This cut provides more volume to be reduced which can satisfy the patient the best.

To put it simply: A Low-L cut will give you a small reduction and a High-L cut will give a bigger reduction.

After Surgery

Since cheekbone reduction is considered to be major surgery, there will be some side effects. You could experience the following things:

– Bleeding

– Infection

– Anaesthesia risks

– Hematoma and skin discoloration

– Scarring

– Pain

This is why choosing only the top team to perform your surgery is important and why Seoul Guide Medical exists. We are here to make sure you get the best doctors, the best team, and the best experience. Our recommended plastic surgeon will of course explain everything to you and have the utmost care for you as their patient.

After the surgery, it is recommended not to exercise too strenuously for 1-2 months and only go on short walks. Walking is important for your recovery as it speeds it up. Staying in bed all day actually slows it down. Here is an outline of the recovery schedule that you can expect but it will differ a bit from person to person:

First, there is the day of the surgery. We will assist and be at your complete service to make this day as comfortable as possible. When you wake up after the surgery we will be there as well to help you with anything you might need.

Aftercare Visits

The day of the surgery and is now over and we’ll transfer to the aftercare visits. The first visit is already after 3 days. On this day they’ll disinfect the wound, check the process, and as an additional treatment will provide you with shampoo service.

The next visit is a week after surgery where we will take you to the clinic again and APL or infrared management that helps cleanse and remove dead skin cells, regenerate skin and relieve swelling.

The third visit is two weeks after the surgery. On this day the sutures will be removed, and the plastic surgeon will use RF radio frequency or ultrasonic treatment for healing and reducing the swelling.

After this, the visits get a lot less frequent. There should be periodic progress checks in the next 1 to 6 months, where the surgeon will perform a CT scan or X-ray to check on the internal healing process.

The healing process is as followed. After 1-3 months 80% of the wounds have been healed. In this time period, you can return to your daily things. However, you should still be careful with the restrictions the doctor gave you beforehand, like no smoking, no swimming and if you practice boxing, don’t receive hits to the face or don’t box for the time being.

After 6 months 95% of the wounds have been healed. However, things could still be sore and you should treat the area with care. You’re now halfway through the healing face and although 95% of the wounds have been healed, it still isn’t 100%.

After 12 months 99% of the wounds have recovered. At this stage, internal healing will go at a much slower rate and it can take up to 1-2 years for full internal healing in some cases. Most cases will have recovered fully internally at this point.

As for the swelling, after 1 month you will look normal to others but you’ll see some swelling. This swelling will be 80% gone by 3 months. From this time on, improvements in swelling will go slower. After 6 months all swelling should be gone and only internal healing is left.

Before and After Photos

To get a better visual idea of what the surgery will do and how it’ll make your face look, here are some photos for you to visualize it better.

Is it for me?

First, it’s very important to know if this is something for you. If you’re not satisfied with your facial width because of the broadness of the cheekbones, then this procedure could be for you. Do note that the best individuals for this procedure are:

– Individuals who have broad cheeks due to wide cheekbones

– Individuals who have good overall health

– Individuals who are not satisfied with their facial width due to their “chubby” cheeks

– Individuals that have realistic expectations of the results of the surgery

The last point about having realistic expectations of the results of the surgery is very important. Often it is found that when people want to undergo surgery, they have an image in their mind of the end result. This however might not be realistic. When undergoing zygomatic reduction surgery, the plastic surgeon will cut into bone. In the face are a lot of nerves and blood vessels and other structures thus are limited to what the final result can be. The result has to be in balance with your other features and is limited by your own structures. You will be able to improve as much as you can improve so having realistic expectations is key.

What can I do before the surgery?

First, it’s important to remember that cheekbone reduction surgery or zygoma reduction is considered to be major surgery. This means that patients have to follow strict preparation instructions before they undergo surgery. This entails:

– No drinking or eating at least 6 hours before the start of the operation but some doctors prefer fasting to happen for longer periods

– No aspirin, anti-inflammatory, and herbal medication approximately 2 weeks before the scheduled operation

– No smoking at least 4 weeks before the procedure if possible

– No alcoholic beverages 2 days before surgery

– Stop taking vitamins for 1-2 weeks before the surgery according to the doctor’s recommendations

Seoul Guide Medical staff is here to assist

At Seoul Guide Medical we want you to have the best experience in plastic surgery done in Korea. Our excellent staff is here to help you with all your questions and with the journey you’re going to take.

We provide online consultation with our staff. They know everything there is to know about plastic surgery and can answer all of your questions. After this conversation, Seoul Guide Medical develops a treatment plan in collaboration with many specialists and gives you different options depending on your needs. You tell us what you want, and we’ll arrange everything. There’s no need for searching online and looking at dozens of skin clinics, we will do that for you! We have collaborations with only the best plastic surgeons and they are all government licensed, which means you’re in safe hands!

After you’ve chosen the best treatment plan for you, it’s time to come to Korea and we will be supporting and helping you in any way possible all the way up until the surgery day. So in short, we go with you to the clinic, help you with the paperwork and make sure you have the best and most comfortable trip to Korea.

As mentioned earlier, we only choose the top professionals in their field, all of the doctors are government verified, and the clinics all use CCTV which makes it a safe area to perform.

In summary, our Seoul Guide Medical staff will take care of you before you come, while you’re in Korea and always be here for you in the future.

How much will it cost?

The price range is difficult to determine since there are a lot of factors that all play a role. These are things like the level of clinic, the difficulty of the case and the length, time of the surgery, and the level of doctor within the clinic. For example: is the doctor a specialist? How much experience does he have? How often do they perform the procedure? We at Seoul Guide Medical check all of this and all of the doctors are SGM-verified.

With this being said, and mentioning again that all of these factors play a role in the price range, the price range for Zygomatic reduction surgery is around 4000 USD to 9000 USD. Paying the most expensive price is not always necessary but it depends on your case. Similarly, expert doctors will not want to do surgeries at the lowest pricing points since they are in demand and their schedules are full. The exact pricing point is best determined by going through a Seoul Guide Medical full consultation and getting a customized treatment plan.

What’s next?

If you’re ready to come to Korea and create a smaller face by using our services, contact us at Seoul Guide Medical.

Our experts are waiting to help you out and give you the best experience in plastic surgery in Korea!

If you would like to come to Korea for plastic surgery, skin care, laser eye surgery, hair transplantation, dentistry, or other medical procedures, contact us for a free consultation at:

our website
sending us an email: [email protected]
sending us a message on Instagram
Sending us a message on Facebook

Or by calling/texting us on:

Phone (WhatsApp/Kakao/Line): +82-10-5920-5546 (Mon-Fri 9.30am-7pm, Sat 10am-2pm Seoul time.

FAQ

Will the metal screws and plate in the Zygomatic bone be seen when going to security at the airport?

How long does it take for a cheekbone to heal?

Even with the screws (and plates) in place it still takes about 6 weeks to heal completely. During this period it’s important to be careful to avoid an injury to this area of your face as it may cause the cheekbone to move out of position.

Does it hurt to have cheekbone reduction surgery?

According to plastic surgeons, cheekbone reduction surgery can be experienced with a minimal amount of pain. At Seoul Guide Medical we’re happy to help if you have any concerns.

If I get cheekbone reduction surgery, will I get sagging cheeks?

For those people who experience sagging skin easily, such as who has less elasticity in their skin, the doctor can perform a skin tightening technique where an anchoring system is placed on the inside, towards the nose, of the screws and plate. This will make sure the skin keeps its tightness.

What can I eat after cheekbone surgery?

The incisions will also be on the inside of your mouth, therefore it could be best to avoid hard and sharp foods, like chips or candy. Try to eat soft food such as rice porridge or soups.

How can I heal faster after plastic surgery?

To heal the fastest you should: Take all medication the doctor prescribed Walking is a great way to speed up your recovery Maintain a healthy diet. Include lots of fruit and vegetables. Although walking is great, taking enough rest is important as well Follow-up appointment. If you follow these and maybe additional things you’re doctor has said, you’ll heal in the best and fastest way possible.

Who is not a good candidate for cheekbone reduction surgery?

What are additional surgeries that can go well with this surgery?

Nose Plastic Surgery in Korea

Plastic Surgery in Korea

Feb 25

Facial Feminization in Korea – Everything You Need to Know!

By sgm | Plastic Surgery | No Comments

Facial feminization surgery is an excellent procedure for transgender women and females because it helps them feel a sense of belonging in society. In today’s time, your facial appearance matters so much when it comes to the social aspect of life. Everyone wants to belong in a way that they are comfortable with and in a way that shows their true identity. With the help of facial feminization surgery, women and transgender women who have problems with gender dysphoria can now reveal their true identity.

What is Facial Feminization, and to whom is it applicable?

Facial feminization surgery (FFS) is a group of cosmetic procedures that reconstruct facial features that appear masculine and alter them to become more feminine. This procedure can alter both soft tissues as well as the facial bone to achieve more feminine-looking facial features. Some of the procedures included in facial feminization surgery are:

Rhinoplasty
Cheek Augmentation
Jaw and Chin Contouring
Tracheal Shave
Hairline Advancement
Brow Lifting
Eyelid Surgery
Face and Neck Lift

These procedures make a face look softer and more feminine by creating a more pointed chin, a less angular nose tip, and changing the shape of the skull.

A facial feminization surgery can even be considered as a solution to women who want to have their masculine features softened to look feminine. This is also to get rid of gender dysphoria, especially in transgender women. Gender dysphoria, which, according to Dr. Agostini and his coauthors, is a “discomfort and distress arising from a discrepancy between a person’s gender identity and sex assigned at birth.” In some instances, facial feminization surgery is considered more vital than sex reassignment surgeries. This is because it does more to help transgender women incorporate themselves into society as females. The foremost benefit of this procedure is the treatment of gender dysphoria in both women and transgender women. Some of the other benefits include an increase in confidence, having a sense of belongingness in society, and being comfortable in one’s own body.

How is it done?

Not every person will need to undergo a full facial feminization as each person has his or her needs to gain the right results. Most, however, will undergo the procedures that involve bone reconstruction.

The duration of the surgery depends on the procedures that will be done on the patient. This involves non-invasive and invasive procedures for bone and soft tissue alterations anywhere from dermal fillers, fat grafting, implants, and bone reconstruction. As with every plastic surgery procedure, this should also be done by a licensed plastic surgeon. The steps during a facial feminization include the following:

Anesthesia

Depending on the FFS procedure to be done, the surgeon can give either local anesthesia, general anesthesia, or local anesthesia paired with IV sedation. For non-invasive procedures or more straightforward procedures like dermal fillers, anesthesia may not be needed unless the patient requests it.

Core FFS Procedures

Rhinoplasty

Bone and cartilage are altered to produce a more petite nose with a slight curve.

Cheek augmentation

The cheeks are feminized by defining them through fat grafting or by placing implants on the cheekbone.

Jaw and Chin Contouring

As compared to a male jaw and chin that are more angled and square, a female jaw and chin are more pointed and refined. This is done by either adjusting the bone and tissue or reducing a part of the bone in the jaw and chin area.

Tracheal Shave

This is also known as the Adam’s Apple, and it is reduced to eliminate a masculine appearance.

Hairline Advancement

The hairline is moved forward, and the peaks are removed to create a more rounded hairline, which is typical for females.

Soft Tissue procedures

These procedures are only done in conjunction with the core FFS procedures to enhance the results and are not perceived to signify the gender of one’s facial features.

1. brow lifting
2. eyelid surgery
3. face and neck lift

How long does it take to recover from FFS?

The duration of recovery from a facial feminization surgery depends on the procedure/s that was done. For core FFS procedures, swelling and bruising is expected right after the surgery and may be resolved after one to two weeks. Since this is major surgery, you are highly advised to slow down with your daily activities for two weeks.

You should avoid any strenuous activities and take time off work to rest and recover properly. Your doctor will prescribe you antibiotics and pain medication, which you have to take diligently. For swelling and bruising, a cold compress is a great way to help reduce it. When going outside, make sure to wear sunblock or protective clothing for nine months to avoid any damage that the sun can cause.

Facial Feminization Before and After

The results of a facial feminization surgery take time to be visible. Usually, you can see 80% of the outcome by three months. At six months to a year, the results will have set fully, and you will be able to see your final appearance. Just like in the before and after pictures below, you can see that the patients’ appearance looks more feminine after undergoing facial feminization surgery. Their face shows much smoother and more petite features that make them look more feminine as compared to before.

Image Source

Image Source

To conclude, facial feminization surgery can offer an effective transformation from a masculine appearance to a softer and more feminine one. It involves a group of procedures divided into the core FFS procedures and soft tissue procedures. The core FFS procedures are more on altering the bones, while soft tissue procedures are only conjunct procedures that help enhance the appearance. One of the most significant benefits of an FFS is the treatment of gender dysphoria. With the issue gone, patients who undergo this procedure can feel more confident and comfortable in their bodies.

Just like any plastic surgery, for this to have successful and effective results, it should be done by a well-experienced and board-certified plastic surgeon. If you are someone who wants to undergo this procedure safely, contact Seoul Guide Medical through our website. We have plastic surgeons who are well-known and are internationally acclaimed when it comes to various plastic surgery procedures. They never fail to produce results that are of high standards.

FAQs:

Can Facial Feminization also be done on the female gender?

A facial feminization surgery is currently done mostly on transgender women or males that want to transition into females. However, this can also be done on females who wish to feminize some of their facial features that look masculine.

How long until can I see the results after facial feminization surgery?

How long until the results of a facial feminization surgery can become visible depends on the procedure/s that was done. Usually, it will take three months to a year for you to see stable and full results.

Is Facial Feminization surgery permanent?

The results after a facial feminization surgery can be temporary, semi-permanent, or permanent, depending on the procedure that was done. If the procedure altered the bones, then most likely, it will produce a lasting result. If the procedure used dermal fillers, fat grafting, or implants, it will either give a semi-permanent or temporary outcome.

Feb 24

Non-Surgical Liposuction – Important Information You Need to Know

By sgm | Non-Surgical Procedures | No Comments

Non-surgical liposuction is a procedure that a lot of people would be willing to undergo to improve their appearance. Not everyone wants to experience surgery wherein they will feel discomfort for several days or even weeks. Some do not have the time to pause their busy schedules to recover from cosmetic surgery, while others are ultimately not a fan of surgical procedures. With today’s advancements in technology, undergoing a non-surgical body contouring procedure is now possible.

Non-Surgical liposuction before and after treatment

What is Non-Surgical Liposuction?

Non-surgical liposuction, also called non-surgical fat reduction, is a minimally invasive procedure that uses lasers, heat, cooling, ultrasound, and radiofrequency to destroy excess fat cells inside the body. This kind of liposuction has lesser to no recovery time needed unlike surgical liposuction. This procedure can effectively treat all of the body parts that are capable of storing fat. Still, the most common body parts that are treated by non-surgical liposuction are the abdomen, waistline, thighs, arms, and under the chin.

Types of Non-Surgical Liposuction

There are four types of techniques used for non-surgical liposuction, namely, Laser treatment, Cryolipolysis, Radiofrequency energy, and Ultrasound energy.

A. Laser Treatment

This technique is known for the brand name SculpSure. This uses laser energy to deliver heat into the fat cells, which then causes damage to their structure. This is best used for the stomach and thighs since the device has a flat applicator and will not produce good results on curved body surfaces.

B. Cryolipolysis

Known for the brand CoolSculpting, Cryolipolysis uses cooling, which is controlled to cause the damage of fat cells. The device used for this technique uses suction to pull the skin and deliver cold temperatures that would damage the fats underneath.

C. Radiofrequency energy

By the brand names truScuplt and Vanquish, this technique uses radiofrequency to deliver heat energy that would cause damage to the fat cells. The treatment is most effective when you are hydrated since it aims to destroy the fats by decreasing water in the cells.

D. Ultrasound energy

Under the brand name UltraShape, this technique makes use of ultrasound energy to liquefy the fats through mechanical vibrations. This is only used in the abdomen and no other body parts.

Benefits of Non-Surgical Liposuction

In 2013, based on the statistical report from the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 1.8 million surgical body contouring procedures were performed while there were 9.5 million for non-surgical procedures. One of the most significant factors as to why non-surgical body contouring procedures have risen in popularity is because of the benefits it can offer. Some of the benefits include:

Minimal to no downtime
No need for anesthesia
Minimal side effects
Discreet treatment and procedure
Long-lasting results
No more problems with incisions and scars

Non-Surgical Liposuction Procedure

Just like any plastic surgery-related procedure, non-surgical liposuction also starts with a consultation with the doctor. It is during this time that the area where the fat is to be reduced is analyzed. The patient will also be informed of what will happen during the procedure proper. Pictures are also taken, and the area to be treated is measured for the before and after comparison. The duration of the treatment is around 30 minutes to two hours, depending on the patient’s case and the technique being used. Usually, since this is a non-invasive procedure, anesthesia is not required, but if it is needed, local anesthesia can be administered.

The patient will be lying down on a bed intended for the procedure. And in some clinics, aromatherapy and massage are offered to relax the patient.
Once the patient is already relaxed, the machine used for the treatment will come in contact with the skin of the area to be treated.
Then, the heat, cold laser, or ultrasound passes through the skin on to the layers of fat beneath the epidermis.
The laser then passes through the fat tissues making the fats melt through the pores.
The liquefied fats are then expelled from the body over time through the metabolic processes.

Non-Surgical Liposuction Recovery

As mentioned, non-surgical liposuction is non-invasive to minimally invasive. You may go back to your work and do your daily activities right after you undergo the treatment. Although you may still experience swelling, bruising, and redness, there is no need for downtime or a certain recovery period.

Non-Surgical Liposuction Before and After

When done by a board-certified plastic surgeon who is knowledgeable and well experienced with the techniques of non-surgical liposuction, the results could lead to the body that you have always desired. Just like in the before and after pictures below, you can see the significant changes in the patients’ bodies. From having visible excess fats to a more contoured and firm shape.

Almost anyone can undergo non-surgical liposuction as long as you are in excellent health and within your ideal weight. Not only is the procedure’s non-invasiveness beneficial to most people, but also it is effective in improving the contours of the body. With the four types of techniques available, the patient has options as to which one suits their needs and preference. Unlike the surgical approach, this kind of treatment will require you to have several sessions to achieve your desired outcome. Most patients would not mind having several sessions since it only takes 30 minutes to two hours and does not require any downtime.

If you are someone who is not a fan of surgical procedures and the recovery that comes with it, then non-surgical liposuction is something worth trying. Not only will you enjoy the benefits, but also have a more stress-free way of improving your body and overall appearance. For an appointment, you may contact Seoul Guide Medical through their website and experience an international standard of service and results.

FAQ :

For whom is non-surgical liposuction most recommended?

The best way to know if you are the right candidate for non-surgical liposuction is through a consultation with your plastic surgeon. You are qualified to have the procedure if you are within your ideal weight, and if you have stubborn fats that cannot be eliminated no matter how much you exercise or follow a healthy diet. Other qualifications to undergo non-surgical liposuction are: 1) Good physical and mental health 2) Good skin elasticity 3) Realistic expectations of the outcome

Is non-surgical liposuction permanent?

Just like surgical liposuction, the non-surgical kind also eliminates fats and produces permanent results. For the outcome to be maintained, you need to follow a healthy diet and a constant exercise routine to prevent gaining weight, which may alter the results.

When can you see the results of non-surgical liposuction?

It may take around three months for you to see the results of non-surgical liposuction. This is because it takes about 12-16 weeks for fats to be disposed of through the body's metabolic system.

Are the results of non-surgical liposuction the same as surgical liposuction?

Non-surgical liposuction is capable of eliminating excess body fats and improving the contours of the body, but the results are not as extensive as surgical liposuction. Traditional liposuction can eliminate about ten times more fat than the non-surgical kind since it can reach into the deeper layers of fat.

Feb 18

Canthoplasty – What Must I Know Before Getting Canthoplasty Surgery

By sgm | Plastic Surgery | No Comments

Canthoplasty surgery has been in popular demand, particularly with people of Asian heritage since most have inherited a slimmer eye shape. Some individuals, notably, have eyes that they feel may give the wrong impression about themselves because of them being too dull or small. If you want to improve your eyes and your overall appearance, then you may want to consider undergoing a canthoplasty surgery.

What is Canthoplasty?

Canthoplasty originated from the Greek word Kanthos, which means the corner of the eye, and plasty, to form. In other words, canthoplasty is a plastic surgery that involves the restoration of the corners of the eyes through the means of surgery. This kind of plastic surgery is responsible for improving the shape and symmetry of the eyes to make them look bigger, brighter, and more alert.

What is Canthoplasty?

Two types of canthoplasty procedures create horizontal changes in the dimension of the eyes. There are some instances when both types should be done simultaneously in one method known as a double canthoplasty. The two kinds of canthoplasty are the Epicanthoplasty and Lateral canthoplasty.

Epicanthoplasty

Also known as medial canthoplasty or inner corner eyelid surgery, it can aesthetically improve the eye area by producing a more significant, open-eye appearance, especially since it is also responsible for enhancing the results of a double-eyelid surgery.

This type of procedure also helps eliminate the Mongolian fold, which is common in South Koreans and other Asian nationalities. An epicanthoplasty should be done carefully since the inner corner of the eye is considered as the most delicate part of the eye area and is more prone to producing a visible scar after the surgery.

Lateral Canthoplasty

Also referred to as the procedure for the outer corner; eyelid surgery is a type of canthoplasty that is responsible for decreasing the degree of the eye slant and lengthen the eyes. It is usually done with lower blepharoplasty to fix the laxity and position of the lower eyelid.

This procedure can uplift a downward slanting eyelid that is most often caused by the aging process. Not everyone is meant to have this surgery since there are only particular eye shapes that are eligible to undergo this procedure.

Benefits of Canthoplasty

Canthoplasty has several benefits cosmetically and aesthetically. Some of the benefits of undergoing canthoplasty are the following:

Improved shape and symmetry of the eyes
Gets rid of a stuffy appearance
Increased length of the horizontal line of the eyes
Elimination of the Mongolian Folds
Bigger and brighter looking eyes

Canthoplasty Surgery Procedure

The plastic surgeon in your chosen clinic will be the one to determine which type of canthoplasty procedure to use based on their analysis during your consultation; this is because the method depends on the eye shape of the patient. The surgery has a duration of 30 minutes to one hour with the use of local anesthesia. The surgeon only administers local anesthesia, but for more complex cases, the surgeon may opt for local anesthesia with sedation.

Epicanthoplasty procedure

The doctor will design the desired outcome during the consultation based on the patient’s eye shape, proportion, and balance.
There will be a small incision done in the inner corner of the patient’s eyes.
The surgeon will then remove the excess skin that causes the Mongolian folds in the inner corner of the patient’s eyes.
After removing the excess skin, the surgeon will stitch the incision while making sure that the scar will not be visible.

Canthoplasty Surgery Procedure

Lateral Canthoplasty Procedure

The doctor will design the possible outcome during the consultation and takes into consideration the shape and balance of the patient’s eyes.
The doctor then makes a horizontal incision in the outer corner of the eyes.
The excess skin is then peeled and fixated in the periosteum.
Removal of the mucous membrane is next; then, the incision is sutured correctly to make sure that the scar is not visible.

Lateral Canthoplasty procedure

Canthoplasty Recovery

The recovery after undergoing canthoplasty usually takes three weeks to a month. During this period, you must take care of your eyes to avoid complications and scarring. The doctor will prescribe you oral antibiotics, ophthalmic solutions, and artificial tears. He may give you steroid eye drops, which you will only use when needed or when a part of the eye is swollen. You will also be advised only to have light showers during the healing period, and to avoid rubbing your eyes for at least one month.

Canthoplasty Before and After

The results of a canthoplasty procedure, when done by a licensed and well-experienced surgeon, can have a guaranteed and satisfactory outcome. Also, seeing from the before and after pictures below, there is no visible scar in the eye area of the patients, which makes the surgical outcome look clean and natural. Besides, the patients’ eyes have improved to look bigger, brighter, and more alert than before, contributing to a more doll-like appearance.

Canthoplasty surgery helps in lengthening and making the eyes more prominent. Canthoplasty is a procedure that has been in demand in Asia because of the natural eye shape of most Asians. With the two types of canthoplasty, namely the epicanthoplasty and the lateral canthoplasty, a person can achieve bigger, brighter eyes. These two procedures can offer better results when paired with other eyelid surgeries like blepharoplasty since it can make the whole appearance of the eye more balanced and proportional.

There are a lot of people who can benefit from a canthoplasty surgery. However, it is the surgeon’s call as to which type of procedure is to be used on the patient. This is because the procedures largely depend on the eye shape of the person. Just like most eye surgery procedures, epicanthoplasty and lateral canthoplasty require for you to have the procedure under the supervision of a credible clinic. A board-certified doctor is best to make sure that the results will come out as expected. For a safe and successful canthoplasty surgery, you may contact Seoul Guide Medical for the best plastic surgeons in Korea and experience results just like the patients shown in the before and after images.

FAQ:

Is canthoplasty permanent?

If done carefully and correctly by a board-certified surgeon, the results of canthoplasty surgery are considered permanent, and revision surgeries are rare.

Will there be visible scars after having canthoplasty surgery?

As with every surgery, scars are inevitable, and the best surgeons always make an effort to keep surgical scars as hidden as possible in the natural creases of the skin. With canthoplasty, the visibility of the scar depends on the method used. It has been studied that vertical incisions result in visible scarring, while incisions that are parallel with the lower eyelid margin produce a less noticeable scar.

How long can you see the results of canthoplasty surgery?

There is a possibility that you will not be able to fully appreciate the results right after the procedure because of swelling. You will be able to see visible results within three weeks to a month since swelling has decreased by 90% during that time.

Feb 17

Male Non-Surgical Facelift in Korea – Male Non-Surgical Facelift Towards Handsomeness

By sgm | Skin | No Comments

The male non-surgical facelift is becoming a common plastic surgery procedure among men these days. In the past, these kinds of procedures were only popular among women, but men have realized the benefits they can also get from non-surgical facelifts and facelifts in general. In today’s society, men have also become conscious of their appearance and make efforts to find ways on how to improve it. With the innovations in plastic surgery, which includes non-surgical procedures, a lot of people can now experience anti-aging procedures without the need for surgery.

What is a Male Non-Surgical Facelift?

A male non-surgical facelift is a cosmetic treatment that is responsible for getting rid of the signs of aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging on the face. From the name itself, the treatment options that are used are non-surgical procedures that are capable of replacing volume, rejuvenating, tightening, and lifting the face.

They are either injectable, laser resurfacing, peels, ultrasound-based, or radiofrequency-based. The most common of these treatments are the injectable option, such as dermal fillers and Botox. These treatments can be combined to produce better results.

There are factors to consider as males having a non-surgical facelift compared to women differs due to some factors. As compared to women, men bleed more during surgery, which makes them more prone to hematomas. Also, since male hairlines are receding, it is sometimes a struggle for surgeons to hide surgery scars. Beards are also another factor to consider in men because getting a facelift surgery may affect the hair on the face.

Benefits of Male Non-Surgical Facelift

Undergoing a male non-surgical facelift is beneficial in many ways, especially to males who want to improve their appearance. This procedure can bring significant benefits physically, psychologically, and emotionally. Some of the benefits of a male non-surgical facelift include the following:

Enhanced appearance
Elimination of loose sagging skin on the face
Reduction of fine lines and wrinkles
Little to no downtime
Minimally invasive procedures
Lasting effects (improved longevity with maintenance)
Better quality of life
Boosts confidence
Contentment with one’s skin

Male Non-Surgical Facelift Procedures

Since the procedures for a male non-surgical facelift do not involve incisions, anesthesia would not be necessary. However, if you may wish for anesthesia, the doctor may give you topical anesthesia or numbing cream on the area that is to be treated. The duration of the procedure depends on which type of treatment you are undergoing. Usually, it lasts around 15 minutes to an hour and a half. The following are the treatment options for a male non-surgical facelift:

For whom is a Male Non-Surgical Facelift most recommended?

To know if you are the right candidate for a male non-surgical facelift, you should consult your doctor. Most males should be qualified for the procedure as long as they are healthy with no skin infections and not taking medications that could cause an adverse effect during and after the procedure. Other males who are generally qualified for a non-surgical facelift are:

Those who want to get rid of lines and wrinkles
Those who want to improve sagging of the skin on their face
Those who have a healthy weight
Those who are willing to quit or decrease smoking and alcohol consumption
Those who want to have a younger, more lifted appearance
Those who do not wish to undergo a surgical procedure
Those who are too busy to have a long recovery and downtime

Injectable treatments

Botox – This treatment involves injecting botulinum toxin to muscles in the face to stop them from contracting, thus reducing wrinkles.
Dermal fillers – Fillers are used to plump the skin and smoothen wrinkles with the use of hyaluronic acid.

Skin resurfacing treatments

These types of treatments under non-surgical facelifts for men are considered to be the most effective in skin lifting.

Laser treatment – Ablative lasers stimulate new skin and collagen production by removing the top layers of the skin. Non-ablative lasers, on the other hand, use heat directly into the deeper layers of the skin to promote collagen production.
Chemical peels – This treatment uses chemical solutions that make the skin peel after several days to give way to new and smoother skin.
Microdermabrasion – This procedure is gentle enough to be repeated in shorter gaps. It uses a device with a fine tip that gently exfoliates the skin.
Dermabrasion – This treatment uses a blade or a rotating tool to exfoliate several layers of skin until a certain depth is achieved.
Microneedling – As the name suggests, this procedure uses ultra-fine needles to create “injuries” to the skin and stimulate natural skin healing and produce collagen.

Male Non-Surgical Facelift Recovery Time

The recovery time for a male non-surgical facelift varies depending on the treatment that was done. For injectable treatments such as dermal fillers and Botox, there is no downtime needed generally; however, one to three days of recovery may be necessary if you have swelling on the area of the treatment. Also, the results may not be instant and could become visible within two weeks after the procedure.

On the other hand, for skin resurfacing and lifting treatments such as laser rejuvenation, ultrasound, and radiofrequency, there may be minimal downtime depending on the invasiveness of the treatment that was used. Non-ablative procedures may not need any downtime at all, while ablative ones could take up to three weeks for a complete recovery.

After getting treatments for a male non-surgical facelift, whether the skin resurfacing type or the injectable type, it is best to protect your skin from the sun through the use of sunscreen or protective clothing. If you are experiencing any redness and swelling from ablative treatments, it is best to stay away from activities that can cause infection on the skin. To help maintain the results as long as possible, it is recommended that you care for your skin through proper skincare products and a routine.

Male Non-Surgical Facelift before and after

For optimal results, the treatments used in a male non-surgical facelift requires maintenance every few months to a little over a year. The procedures are effective enough in reducing the signs of aging in men and, just like in women, give them a more youthful, well-rested look.

With men beginning to seek out plastic surgery procedures more actively, a male non-surgical facelift is one of the procedures that can give them a better appearance by fighting the signs of aging without having to undergo surgery. There are several treatments available, such as injectable and skin resurfacing treatments that can be combined to achieve optimal results.

The procedures take only 15 minutes to over an hour without the requirement for anesthesia. The recovery depends on the treatment that you underwent, with the most extended option potentially needing up to three weeks. With proper skincare and treatment maintenance, a male non-surgical facelift can offer significant benefits and results that could match that of a surgical facelift.

If you have been considering a facelift and do not like to undergo the process and recovery of a surgical procedure, then a non-surgical facelift could be for you. To know more about the treatments available and if you are qualified for them, contact Seoul Guide Medical through their website for the most trusted clinics in South Korea and certified doctors.

FAQ:

How long until I see the results of a Male Non-Surgical Facelift?

Most, if not all, types of treatment for a male non-surgical facelift show instant visible results. For some, especially the lasers and ultrasound energy, the results only improve throughout the two weeks after the procedure, and you may see the full effect within six months.

Is a Male Non-Surgical Facelift permanent?

The effects of a male non-surgical facelift are not permanent. They usually last for 18-24 months, depending on the type of facelift treatment that was used. However, for fillers, the effects may only last for four to six months until you need to have a follow-up treatment.

Feb 13

Mommy Makeover Surgery – What’s included, Preparation, Recovery, Before and After

By sgm | Plastic Surgery | No Comments

Having children can be one of the most rewarding moments in a mother’s life. On the other hand, it can also be quite discouraging to see the aftermath of what having children can do to a woman’s body. Though many mothers try their best to retain the shape they had prior to pregnancy, often, the stretching of the skin and weight gain can be inevitable, notably if you underwent more than one pregnancy. With little time to bounce back between pregnancies, or often just even one pregnancy for particularly busy mothers, it is no wonder that many mothers seek for an alternative solution to have their pre-baby bodies back. For mothers looking for this alternative, look no further than a Mommy Makeover Surgery.

mommy makeover surgery

What is a mommy makeover in plastic surgery?

A mommy makeover is a culmination of a variety of surgical procedures that are capable of restoring the mother’s body to how it once looked prior to pregnancy, or sometimes even better through body contouring. There is no specific combination that works the same for all mothers, but a general guideline of the body parts this procedure targets include:

the breast
the abdomen (abdominoplasty)
other areas the mother may have experienced significant weight gain in (legs, arms, etc.)

What is included in a Mommy Makeover?

We can break down the procedure according to the body part it is targeting from the ones mentioned above. First, we have breasts. Women can experience quite a wide range of results after pregnancy, from deflated breasts to breasts that remained doubled the size of their original state. Options for correcting the breasts include;

Breast augmentation (through fat grafting or breast implants)
Breast Lift
Breast reduction

The next area of the body that is usually affected by pregnancy is the stomach. For this area the options tend to be;

Tummy Tuck
Liposuction

For any other areas that a mother gained excess weight in, and they do not have the time to correct through diet and exercise, liposuction may also be an alternative.

How to prepare for mommy makeover surgery

The best way to prepare for a mommy makeover surgery is a culmination of a variety of surgical procedures that are capable of restoring the mother’s body to how it once looked prior to pregnancy, or sometimes even better through body contouring. is to have a clear set of goals and expectations. Once this is established, it is recommended that a patient stop smoking and drinking prior to surgery. This will help with the healing process. If there are any possible complications such as high blood pressure, these should be under control prior to the procedure.

Mommy makeover surgery procedure

This will vary depending on which procedures you opted to undergo for your case. For more detailed information on each procedure, there will be an attached link provided. For a general overview of what each procedure entails, please keep reading below.

Breast Augmentation:

Fat Transfer: Here, you have a procedure that involves the combination of liposuction, to cultivate fat (therefore removing it from another area), that is then injected in the breasts. This procedure has virtually no complications as the body will not reject its own fat, but the results can vary significantly as not all the fat will survive, and the breasts can change with weight loss.

Also Check – Breast Fat Transfer & Body Liposuction Before and After Video on Seoul Guide Medical YouTube Channel

Breast Implants: One of the most common procedures nowadays, this involves inserting either a silicone-based or saline-based implant inside of the breast. There are also a variety of techniques as to how, where, and what kind of implant would be placed.

Breast Lift

You can see some of the most dramatic changes as far as rejuvenating the breasts with this procedure. Depending on what technique you and your surgeon decide on, that will give you the results you desire; it may leave more considerable scarring behind. It is also relevant to say that many women find this method in combination with breast augmentation restores not only the shape but volume and perkiness their breasts once had, as shown in the images below.

Breast Reduction

This procedure has the main result of reducing the overall size of the breasts due to enlargement that has left the breasts aesthetically unappealing, or if they are causing a great deal of discomfort in your daily life.

Tummy Tuck:

Generally, this procedure will involve sewing the abdominal muscles together to create a firmer and flatter stomach, and cutting off any excess skin around the abdominal area. Generally, this leaves some scarring, but it can easily be hidden under the panty line.

Liposuction

Though there are a variety of specific methods to approach liposuction, the main goal of the procedure is to remove excess fat, usually through suctioning of the troublesome area.

Mommy makeover surgery recovery

A primary reason that women may consider a mommy makeover may also be due to the fact that it is both time and cost-efficient. Though there are studies that are concerned about the recovery of a combination in procedures, a majority of studies disprove this concept and claim that there is no higher risk of combining procedures than having them individually done.

This is important for mothers that may have less downtime to recover from multiple procedures or that are working with a budget, as most clinics will offer some discount for choosing to have more than one procedure.

You should expect to take some time off for your recovery, particularly if you are having more than one procedure done. The surgeon and the patient will discuss in more detail the plan that will be created, as well as the expected steps to recovery. As a general rule of thumb for most procedures, expect swelling and bruising to occur for the initial first few weeks.

You may need a special bra to help shape your new breasts and a compression garment to mold your body into the desired shape after body contouring surgery. Vigorous activities should be limited until around four weeks after the initial surgery, or when your surgeon gives you the clear.

Mommy makeover surgery before and after

As mentioned, there are a variety of possible options that you can follow to reach your desired results. Some possibilities were shown above with their procedure. The image below is of a woman that had a combination of surgical procedures to achieve the ‘mommy makeover.

If you are a woman who’s been dreaming of reverting your body back to what it used to be, or maybe even hoping for improvement, it is a more than achievable dream with a mommy makeover procedure and the variety of options it entails. Though the recovery may be somewhat difficult, the procedure itself is cost and time-efficient due to combining multiple procedures into one. If you are hoping to begin this process as soon as possible, contact us at Seoul Guide Medical, where we will be more than happy to connect you with a board-certified plastic surgeon that will help you achieve optimal results.

FAQ:

How long does a mommy makeover surgery last?

This will vary depending on each mother’s circumstances. If you get pregnant again, many of the results will likely become undone due to the new pregnancy. Therefore, it is highly advised to undergo this procedure once you are no longer planning on having any more children. As long as there is no significant weight gain, the results should last just as they would through healthy aging.

How much weight can you lose with a mommy makeover?

It depends on which procedures you opted for. Expect for fluid retention, which is expected to occur initially, your weight may not change so much at first. If you had a breast fat transfer the scale may not change in number, but the balance between the body fat may be more proportional. If you had implants inserted, they will also slightly add to your weight. If you underwent liposuction, a maximum of 5 liters of fat is allowed to be removed from the body for safety reasons.

Do I need to lose weight before a mommy makeover?

It is not necessary to lose weight before your procedure, though it certainly can help the final results.

How long does it take to recover from a mommy makeover?

This will vary entirely based on which procedures and how many you decided to undergo. Discuss this with your surgeon once a plan of what your course of treatment will be.

Plastic Surgery Procedures In Korea

Why Korea

Feb 07

How to Prepare for your Hair Transplantation Surgery

By sgm | Hair Transplant | No Comments

Preparing for your hair transplant surgery is an essential step in ensuring the optimal outcome in your hair transplant experience. Seoul, South Korea, has some of the best hair transplant clinics in the world. It is exceptionally challenging to become a hair transplant surgeon in Korea as it is such a delicate procedure, and the medical standards in South Korea are so high. Thus, only the best of the best hair transplant surgeons are found in Seoul. Even with the assurance that the doctor is highly skilled, it is still just as important to follow the doctor’s instructions carefully and prepare for your hair transplant surgery as best as you can.

Here are some basic guidelines agreed upon by hair transplant doctors to follow before getting a hair transplant surgery to make sure the day of the surgery goes to plan.

When Should I Start Preparing for the Surgery?

It would be best if you started preparing for the hair transplant surgery one month ahead. From one month before the transplant, you should try to improve your overall health so that your body can recover from the transplant as quickly as possible.

One Month Before

Since it is vital to improve your overall health, you should refrain from smoking about a month ahead of the hair transplant surgery. Smokers tend to heal slower and sometimes not as adequately; this is because smoking slows down wound-healing as it prevents optimal blood flow to the transplanted area.

Stay fit and healthy by eating nutritious food in advance of the transplant procedure. The healthier you are, the easier it will be for your body to hold onto the transplanted hair follicles after the transplant surgery.

You can also start massaging your scalp for a minimum of 10 minutes and up to 30 minutes a day. Massaging will soften the scalp and improve blood flow to the area, which improves the overall health of the scalp.

Don’t get a haircut before your surgery. Not getting a haircut ensures that there is enough hair at the donor site to transplant to the desired areas. It will also be useful because the donor site will be shaved by the medical team at the clinic to ensure that the hairs are not too long nor too short for surgery

Two Weeks Before

At this point, your hair transplant surgery is fast approaching. It would help if you refrained from drinking for at least two weeks before the procedure. This is because drinking alcohol causes adverse effects on your immune system and thus slows down recovery. Alcohol also thins the blood, which increases the chance of excessive bleeding during the hair transplant surgery.

You should also avoid taking medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, herbal supplements, fish oil, vitamins, or any medication that thins the blood for at least 2 weeks before your surgery. Avoiding such medications and supplements makes sure you do not bleed excessively or come across complications during the hair transplant procedure.

If you have medication that you need to take leading up to the surgery, notify your doctor, and they will be able to advise you on how to proceed with your medication.

You should also try your very best not to get sunburnt from now until your surgery.

One Week Before

If you are taking Rogaine® (Minoxidil) prior to your surgery, you may be advised to stop using it a few days before by your hair transplant surgery.

If you plan to have any hair treatments done, such as hair dying or perming, you should do it at least a week before the hair transplant surgery. If you dye your hair too soon before your surgery, the dye may still be stained on your scalp, making it harder for your surgeon to clearly see the individual follicles on your head.

Day of Surgery

Wash your hair with anti-bacterial shampoo on the morning of your hair transplant surgery. After drying your hair, do not use any other hair products in your hair, such as wax, hairspray, hair gel, or mousse. Leave your hair in its natural state and unstyled.

Since this hair transplant surgery is not performed under general anesthesia, you do not have to fast the night before unless instructed otherwise by your surgeon. Have a light breakfast before you leave for your surgery. It is essential to have enough food in your stomach to balance your blood sugar levels during the procedure. Do not drink any caffeinated beverages the day of the surgery, such as coffee or green tea.

Wear a comfortable top that you can either zip or button up at the front to your surgery as you may be required to change in and out of surgery gowns. Simply put, you should not wear anything that you have to pull over your head to get on or off. Avoid tops with tight neck holes as well. You should also bring a clean hat or hood that can be worn loosely, such as a baseball cap or a hood on a zip-up hoodie, for after the procedure. Beanies are not recommended because they may be too close-fitting to the head

Also, make sure you remove all accessories such as earrings, necklaces, and rings before coming to the hair transplant surgery.

Lastly, arrive on time for your appointment. It is because time is needed to settle payments and sign consent forms. Almost all hair restoration clinics in Korea require full payment to be made before going into surgery.

When do I need to stop taking medication before a hair transplant surgery?

It would be best if you stop taking medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, herbal supplements, fish oil, vitamins, or any medication that thins the blood for at least 2 weeks before your surgery. This will prevent excessive bleeding and complications during the transplant.

.What should I eat before a hair transplant surgery?

Eat something light and easy to digest before the surgery. A single hair transplant can take anywhere from 4 to 9 hours, so it is important to eat beforehand to ensure your blood sugar levels remain stable. You may even be given something to eat during the procedure if it is especially long. However, you should avoid anything with caffeine the morning of the surgery, such as coffee or green tea.

Transportation After the Surgery

Due to the light anesthesia or sedative that you may be put under, it is not advised to drive home after the hair transplant. In fact, you should avoid driving for 24 hours after the procedure.

Thus, you should arrange some form of transportation for when you leave the clinic ahead of time. You can get someone to drive you back home or take public transport. It would be best to find accommodation in Seoul as near to the clinic as possible, as this will make your post-surgery experience more manageable.

Follow the Instructions from Your Doctor

All in all, the most important thing is to follow all direct instructions from your hair transplant doctor. Although these instructions are agreed upon by hair transplant doctors, the information in this article is only to serve as guidelines to prepare for your hair transplant surgery in Korea. Use these guidelines to educate yourself on how to take care of yourself to ensure the best results from your hair transplant.

FAQ:

When should I start preparing for a hair transplant surgery?

Ideally, you should start preparing for your hair transplant surgery a month in advance. During this month, you should focus on getting your health in check by eating well. You also should also try to stop smoking during the month before your surgery to ensure you can heal optimally. Smokers tend to have a harder time recovering from hair transplant surgeries. It may also be a good idea to start a daily 10-minute head massage a month in advance of the procedure.

What should I wear to my hair transplant surgery?

It would be best to wear something that buttons or zips up in the front. Please refrain from wearing anything that you may have to pull over your head to not disturb the transplanted areas. Also, you will need to bring a loose hat or something with a hood to wear after the surgery. Do not bring anything that would fit too tightly to the head, such as a beanie.

Should I wash my hair before the hair transplant surgery?

Yes, you should wash your hair the morning of the surgery. The best option would be an anti-bacterial shampoo with a disinfectant like chlorhexidine in it.

Hair Transplantation in Korea

Why Korea

Feb 07

Jaw Implants – Procedure, Benefits, Recovery, and More

By sgm | Plastic Surgery | No Comments

Jaw implants are a good option for the improvement of the jaw’s function and contour. As compared to its non-surgical alternatives, it can give better results when it comes to longevity, appearance, and stableness. Having an improved jaw can help in balancing the facial features for an enhanced appearance. It can also make a face appear more feminine or masculine through proper augmentation. If you are someone who wants to give more definition to your jaw, then a jaw implant could be the answer.

jaw implants surgery

What are Jaw Implants?

Jaw Implants, also known as mandibular augmentation or jaw augmentation, is a plastic surgery procedure that uses facial implants to improve the proportion of facial features. According to an article in the Yaremchuk and Chen, “Augmenting the contours of the mandible balances facial dimensions while adding definition and angularity to the lower third of the face.” This procedure is intended to balance the face by making a “weak” jaw look more angular and defined.

The procedure can be for cosmetic purposes or medical purposes such as correction of the jaw structure due to birth defects or face trauma because of an accident or injury. The most common materials used for jaw implants are silicone rubber or porous polythene.

Benefits of Jaw Implants

Plastic surgery procedures help in improving the facial features that no other treatment and remedy can do. If you had a dermal filler treatment in your jaw to create more definition, it is highly likely that you would want to have jaw implants since it can offer better benefits than injectable fillers. Some of the benefits of getting a jaw implant include:

The results are long-lasting
Improvement of your frontal and side facial appearance
Redefines the jawline
Enhances the appearance to make it more feminine or masculine
Boost in confidence level
Customized treatment for every patient
Creates balance and symmetry within the facial features
Improvement of volume in the jaw area

Jaw Implants Procedure

A jaw implant procedure is highly customized based on the needs and goals of the patient. It can be performed alone or in combination with other facial implants and plastic surgery procedures. The operation itself lasts for about one to two hours. For the anesthesia, twilight or local anesthesia is usually used, but for more complex cases, the doctor can opt to use general anesthesia instead. The following are the steps and measures done before and during a jaw implant procedure:

Before the jaw procedure: During the consultation, the doctor will analyze your jaw area and also screen you to know whether you are qualified for the procedure. During this stage, you will also be asked in detail what your concerns are regarding your jaw area, what improvements you feel might be best, and what your goal is after the procedure. The doctor will also tell you what he can do to achieve your goal and possibly give you other alternative procedures that may complement a jaw implant.

Before you undergo surgery: it is best to take all the needed rest and eat the right kind of diet to boost your immune system to help with faster healing after the procedure. It is also vital to stop taking medications and supplements that may cause complications; most importantly, it is highly recommended that you quit smoking and drinking alcohol.

During the jaw implant procedure

Once the anesthesia has taken effect, the treatment area will be cleaned and disinfected.
The surgeon will then make small incisions on both sides of the lower area of the mouth.
He then lifts the soft tissues that are sticking to the bone structure of the jaw to make space for the implant, also known as a pocket.
They will then place the customized implant in the pocket against the jawbone and secure it using titanium screws.
When the implant has been secured in its proper place, your doctor will stitch the incisions using dissolvable sutures.

Jaw Implants Recovery

Jaw implants take a long time to heal, just like other jaw-related surgeries. After the surgery, it is expected that you will experience swelling and bruising for one to two days. Your doctor will prescribe you pain medications to ease any pain and discomfort and will advise you to apply a cold compress on the area to help with the swelling.

Since the implant and incisions were made in the area where you chew, your diet will be restricted to liquid food like soup for about two days and soft food for about ten days. You also have to make sure that you sleep face up with your head elevated to prevent the collection of fluids in the face.

If you have a desk job, you may be allowed to return to work after a week or two. Vigorous activities like exercise are only allowed after four to six weeks. During this time, you have to make sure that you do not touch or rub the area where the implant was installed to allow it to heal properly.

After six months, your skin tissues will have healed and should be binding with the installed implant. It is during this time that you will see the full improvement of your face and jaw area.

Jaw Implants Before and After

After a jaw implant, you will not be able to see the results right away since there will be swelling and bruising in the area of the operation. You will notice the improvement gradually appear until you have fully recovered from the procedure. If you could see the before and after pictures, the patients’ faces look better after having the procedure. The results are not dramatic, only subtle, but you can still see that their jaws are more defined and symmetrical.

jaw implants before and after

jaw implants after surgery

Image Source

A jaw implant procedure mainly helps in adding definition and balancing the appearance of the jaw and the whole face structure. The usual materials used for a jaw implant are either silicone rubber or porous polythene. The procedure lasts for around one to two hours with the incisions done inside the mouth, thus scarring is not visible. The initial recovery takes only one to two weeks, while the full recovery time can take three to six months. There should be no complications during the recovery period if you take good care of the operated area, and if you follow the doctor’s post-operation instructions.

The results of a jaw implant may not be dramatic, but they do a lot to improve the facial balance. If you are considering a jaw implant and you want to experience the benefits that it can offer, you may contact Seoul Guide Medical through our website. We assure you that your aesthetic and cosmetic goals will be achieved through the best doctors who give results that are of international standard.

FAQ:

Are Jaw Implants permanent?

The longevity of a jaw implant depends on the material that was used. If you opted for the use of human tissue, it would only yield semi-permanent results since these materials tend to age or get partially reabsorbed by the body over time. However, when silicone or polythene, also known as synthetic implants, are used, it will give you permanent results that can even last a lifetime.

For who are Jaw Implants most recommended?

Jaw implants are most recommended for individuals who have a jaw that is weak, deficient, or lacking in volume. If you had a dermal filler enhance your jaw and you liked the outcome, a jaw implant may also be recommended for you since it has long-lasting results as compared to fillers.

How long until I can see the results of Jaw Implants?

After your jaw implants procedure, you will not be able to see the full results right away because of swelling and bruising. Healing of the area will continue for 6-12 weeks. Thus you will only see the full set around three to six months after the initial surgery.

Square Jaw Reduction Surgery

Jaw Surgery in Korea

Feb 04

Anti-Aging Treatment : What is Korean Anti-Aging Treatment All About?

By sgm | Skin | No Comments

Anti-aging treatments have risen in demand because of the belief that looking young while growing older in number is beautiful and admirable. If only the fountain of youth were real, everyone would scramble to achieve a lifetime of youthfulness in one drink. Since the fountain does not exist in real life, other ways were invented to maintain a youthful appearance with age. If you are someone who is into anti-aging or is thinking of having an anti-aging procedure, read on to know more about the possible treatment options and more.

anti aging treatment in Korea

What is Anti-Aging Treatment?

There are currently two types of aging, namely, chronoaging and photoaging. Chronoaging is the natural process of aging, which begins in the mid-20s. This type of aging begins when collagen production and cell repair begins to slow down during the renewal process. Meanwhile, photoaging is brought about by damage caused by exposure to the sun.

With these types of aging, there have been several treatments that were invented to combat the signs. These anti-aging treatments are responsible for “slowing, preventing, or reversing the aging process” through different medications, devices, methods, and techniques.

What is Anti-Aging Treatment?

Procedures that combat aging can be recommended to a lot of people. They are especially recommended to those who are likely to show the most signs of aging, such as people who are in their mid-age. Specifically, these anti-aging treatments are recommended for the following:

Individuals who have wrinkled skin
Individuals who are struggling with sagging in their skin
Individuals who have crow’s feet around the eye area
Individuals who have loose skin in their upper and lower eyelids
Individuals who have brown spots or sun spots
Individuals who have wrinkles around their mouth

The Anti-Aging Treatment options in Korea

Several options can be effective in restoring the skin’s youthfulness and beauty after having been through the process of aging and the effects of environmental skin stressors. Several of the options are as follows:

Non-surgical treatments

Botox – This treatment involves injecting botulinum toxin to muscles in the face to stop them from contracting, thus reducing wrinkles.
Dermal fillers – Fillers are used to plump the skin and smoothen wrinkles with the use of hyaluronic acid.
Topical treatments – this treatment uses retinoid to exfoliate the skin and reduce its roughness.

Skin Resurfacing Treatments

1. Laser treatment – Ablative lasers stimulate new skin and collagen production by removing the top layers of the skin. Non-ablative lasers, on the other hand, use heat directly into the deeper layers of the skin to promote collagen production.
2. Chemical peels – This treatment uses chemical solutions that make the skin peel after several days to give way to new and smoother skin.
3. Microdermabrasion – This procedure is gentle enough to be repeated in shorter gaps. It uses a device with a fine tip that gently exfoliates the skin.
4. Dermabrasion – This treatment uses a blade or a rotating device to exfoliate several layers of skin until a certain depth is achieved.
5. Microneedling – As the name suggests, this procedure uses ultra-fine needles to create “injuries” to the skin and stimulate natural skin healing and produce collagen.
6. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)- This treatment uses broad-spectrum light waves to tackle pigmentation and skin complexion.

Surgical Treatment

Facelift – This surgical procedure uses incisions to gain access to the underlying muscles and skin tissues and tightens them altogether.

Anti-Aging Treatment recovery time

The recovery for anti-aging treatments highly depends on which treatment you underwent. For treatments that are non-invasive and are in the form of injections like Botox and fillers, no downtime is required, and you can go back to your daily activities after the treatment. For some, there may be mild swelling that goes away after one to three days.

On the other hand, skin resurfacing treatments’ recovery may vary depending on how invasive the procedure is you underwent. Non-invasive and non-ablative ones may not need any downtime at all. Invasive and ablative ones could take two to three weeks of recovery, especially for treatments that exfoliate or “damage” the top layer of your skin. During the recovery period, it is best to stay away from the sun since your skin will be raw and more prone to sunburn and sun damage. Redness and scabbing are normal during this time since the wounds are healing, and new skin is taking over. Whether you had non-invasive or invasive procedures, it is always best to use sunscreen when going out and also wear protective clothing. Until your skin has fully healed, you may need to avoid activities that may cause an infection like swimming and anything that will make you sweat.

What are the benefits of having Anti-Aging Treatments?

Undergoing anti-aging treatments can benefit someone’s life significantly in the physical, social, and mental aspects. Some of the benefits that anti-aging treatments can offer are the following:

Improved appearance makes an excellent first impression
Makes you feel good and content about yourself
Increases self-esteem
Fixes damage caused by free radicals and the sun
Makes your face clearer and smoother
Gets rid of skin issues that are hard to eliminate
Availability of less invasive and non-invasive treatments
Several treatments to choose from based on your preference and what your skin needs

Anti-Aging Treatment Before and After

The results brought about by anti-aging treatments highly depend on the treatment that you underwent. There is a significant amount of innovation in the equipment and techniques used in these kinds of procedures. Considerable improvement in the appearance of the skin can be achieved even with the use of a simple procedure. In the before and after pictures below, you can see that the signs of aging from the patients’ faces are not anymore visible. The anti-aging treatments have done a commendable job of rejuvenating their faces and restoring a youthful appearance.

With the use of anti-aging treatments, it is now possible to slow, reverse, and prevent aging. With the three categories of anti-aging treatments currently available, you have a lot of options as to which treatments you would like to undergo. You can also choose whether you want an invasive or non-invasive procedure or a treatment that will give you either a temporary or long-lasting results. When it comes to recovery, the duration depends on how invasive the procedure was that you underwent. Seeing the results, it shows that these treatments are effective enough to improve the appearance and smoothen lines and wrinkles on the face.

Anti-aging treatments, invasive or not, surgical or non-surgical, require a board-certified plastic surgeon to ensure a successful treatment that will result in the desired outcome without any complications. At Seoul Guide Medical, we know of the best plastic surgeons in the country who have performed a lot of successful anti-aging treatments with both locals and foreigners. For a consultation, contact us through our website, and we guarantee you a safe procedure and a youthful, smoother appearance.

FAQ:

Will an Anti-Aging Treatment get rid of wrinkles permanently?

Anti-aging treatments will not get rid of wrinkles or any signs of aging permanently. This is because the aging process will continue due to gravity, the sun, and other environmental factors.

How long will the results last?

How long you can see the results for your anti-aging treatments depends on which type of treatment you underwent. Non-surgical treatments typically last for three months to a year or a little over a year before you should undergo another round of treatment. For surgical treatments and skin resurfacing treatments, the results could last for several years, especially when combined with the right skincare for your skin type and concerns.