No matter what your scar looks like or how it originated, there’s a chance that scar revision surgery might be a great option for you.  However, ensuring that your timing is accurate is important, as your body may still be healing after your surgery or accident.

The decision to undergo scar revision surgery is highly individualised and depends on various factors such as the type of scar, its location, size, and severity, as well as the patient’s overall health and expectations. It is important to consult with a qualified health practitioner before proceeding with any surgical or invasive procedure.

What is Scar Revision Surgery?

Scar revision surgery is a procedure that aims to improve the appearance of scars, restore function, and correct skin changes caused by an injury, wound, poor healing, or previous surgery. The surgery can be used for cosmetic purposes or to restore function to a part of the body that has been restricted by scar tissues.

Depending on the extent of the surgery, scar revision can be done while you are awake (local anaesthesia), or asleep (sedated) or (general anaesthesia).

When is the best time to have Scar Revision Surgery?

If you have a disfiguring scar that’s causing you extreme discomfort (for example, a scar from a facial surgery), it’s recommended that you wait four to six months after the surgery before undergoing treatment.  For other scars, you may want to wait to see how your body heals within the first year.  What looks like a significant scar today may eventually fade significantly once your body is done healing.

The team at Randwick Plastic Surgery are highly experienced in scar revision treatment and can advise you on the best cause of treatment and when this should occur.

How long does it take to recover from Scar Revision Surgery?

The recovery time for scar revision surgery depends on the type of surgery performed, the size and location of the scar, and the patient’s overall health. The initial healing phase of surgical scar revision may include localised swelling, discolouration, or discomfort and may take 1 to 2 weeks. Healing will continue for several weeks, and as the new scar heals, it will slowly refine and fade.

Although scar revision surgery often requires only one procedure, it can sometimes take multiple surgeries to achieve the desired effect. This is especially true with extensive scars, severe burns, or skin grafts. In cases like these, a roster of surgeries may be scheduled, separated by 6 to 12 weeks or even more.

It is important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and to minimise complications. Your surgeon will advise you on when you can resume normal activities such as work or exercise. 

Individual results may vary. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. We recommend you consider a second opinion before proceeding.

If you are interested in finding out more about scar revision surgery, please contact the team at Randwick Plastic Surgery today.

Resources:

Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Healthline.

The post When Should I Have Scar Revision Surgery? appeared first on Randwick Plastic Surgery.

Abdominoplasty, also known as a “tummy tuck”, is a surgical procedure that aims to enhance the shape and tone of the abdominal region. The procedure involves the removal of excess fat and skin to improve the shape and tone of the underlying tissue that supports the fat and skin.

There are several reasons why someone might consider undergoing an Abdominoplasty. These include significant changes in weight, pregnancy, abdominal surgery such as a C-section, ageing, and your natural body type.

Below the Randwick Plastic Surgery team covers common topics that regularly arise from patients about Abdominoplasty.

What are the benefits of an Abdominoplasty?

Abdominoplasty surgery can dramatically reduce the appearance of a protruding abdomen. In most cases, Abdominoplasty will:

• Restore weakened or separated muscles
• Help alleviate pain
• Improve bladder function
• Reduce itching and skin infections caused by excess skin
• Change the shape and tone of the abdomen to create a firmer and smoother profile.

How long does it take to recover from an Abdominoplasty?

It can take up to three months for post-surgical swelling and bruising to disappear completely.

Can I exercise after having an Abdominoplasty?

Your doctor will advise you when you can start exercise, but you will need to avoid strenuous activity for at least six weeks. This includes any vigorous exercise or heavy lifting.

What is the difference between a full and lower Abdominoplasty?

A full Abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of excess sagging fat and skin from the entire abdominal region, including the area above and below the belly button. It also involves tightening of the abdominal muscles.

A lower Abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of excess sagging fat and skin from the lower abdominal region below the belly button. It also involves tightening the abdominal muscles in this area.

The choice between a full or lower Abdominoplasty depends on several factors such as the extent of sagging skin and fat, the amount of muscle laxity, and the patient’s desired outcome.

Can I get pregnant after Abdominoplasty surgery?

According to experts, pregnancy and giving birth after an Abdominoplasty are both possible and safe. However, it is crucial to disclose this surgery (as well as any other surgeries) to your doctor in the early stages of pregnancy.

Our team is here to help, please contact the experienced and caring team at Randwick Plastic Surgery if you are considering having a tummy tuck.

To find out more about the services we offer, or if you would like to speak with us about any procedures please contact our practice.

Resources:

Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons.

Healthline.

The post Abdominoplasty 101 – Somethings you need to know. appeared first on Randwick Plastic Surgery.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a painful disorder of the hand caused by pressure on nerves that run through the wrist, it is highly common and occurs only in adults.

The caring and supportive team at Randwick Plastic Surgery are experienced in treating and effectively managing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

In this blog article, we discuss what Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is, what symptoms to look out for, common causes and the treatment options available.

What is the Carpal Tunnel?

The carpal tunnel is a passageway in the wrist. It’s comprised of the arching carpal tunnel bones and the ligament connecting the pillars of the arch. It houses the median nerve and tendons that connect the fingers to the muscles of the forearm. The median nerve is a conduit for sensation from the thumb, index, middle and ring fingers of the hand.

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is caused by pressure on the median nerve in the carpal tunnel at the wrist. This occurs when the ligament thickens over time, or when swelling or a change in the position of the tissue within the carpal tunnel compresses and irritates the median nerve. It can affect one or both hands.

What are the symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome symptoms usually start gradually and can cause:

• Tingling, pain or numbness in the hand and fingers
• Swollen fingers
• Weakness when gripping objects with one or both hands.
• Clumsiness in the hand
• Pain or numbness in the hand and up the arm that is worse at night, interrupting sleep.

Commons Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:

In some cases, the cause cannot be found. Sometimes there is a combination of factors such as:

Arthritis – various types of arthritis, especially rheumatoid arthritis, can cause inflammation and swelling.

Pregnancy – the hormones associated with pregnancy cause general fluid retention, which can compress the nerve. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome triggered by pregnancy usually goes away soon after birth.

Wrist fractures – bone fragments can irritate the tenosynovium or reduce the amount of space in the carpal tunnel.

Congenital factors – some people have a smaller carpal tunnel than others.

Overuse injury – the tendons in the carpal tunnel can become irritated and inflamed by awkward postures or repetitive hand movements.

How to treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Non- Surgical Treatment

CTS is usually managed by nonsurgical means initially. This may provide significant or complete relief, which means that surgery is not needed.

Non-surgical treatments include:

• Activity modification
• Weight loss and exercise
• Splint – usually at night
• Steroid injection

Surgery

If symptoms persist after trying non-surgical treatment, then surgery may be necessary.

During surgery, the transverse carpal ligament is divided. This is the ‘roof’ of the carpal tunnel and division of it creates more space, thus relieving pressure on the median nerve and releasing the carpal tunnel.

Surgery can be performed by either open or endoscopic (keyhole) technique. Results are generally the same for both procedures, recovery however is usually quicker with the keyhole technique because it requires smaller incisions in the skin, but not every patient is suitable for keyhole surgery.

Please contact the team at Randwick Plastic Surgery if you have signs and symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome that interfere with your normal activities and sleep patterns. Permanent nerve and muscle damage can occur without treatment.

Find out more about Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and the options provided at Randwick Plastic Surgery.

The friendly, caring and highly experienced team at Randwick Plastic Surgery are here to help, please contact us today!

Resources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/
https://www.ahss.org.au/

The post What is Carpal Tunnel syndrome and how best to treat it? appeared first on Randwick Plastic Surgery.

What are Skin Lesions?

A skin lesion is a growth or blemish on the skin that can be cancerous. There are many types of skin lesions such as cysts, warts, birthmarks, and moles that are non-cancerous, but skin lesions become a concern when Melanoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) or Basal Cell Cancer (BCC) are found.

It is extremely important to identify the type of skin lesion you may have early on to reduce the risk of complications from skin cancer by undergoing the correct treatment.

How Do Skin Lesions Become Cancerous?

When spending lots of time outdoors and in the sun, dangerous UV radiation damages your skin cells and over time can cause those cells to progress into skin cancer.

With Australia having the highest rate of Melanoma in the world and more than 2000 deaths each year from skin cancer, it’s important to address any suspicious skin lesions early.

What to do if you have a Skin Lesion

Skin lesions are usually detected by a GP carrying out a routine skin check or a patient notices a new lesion or a change in a lesion and visits their GP. The GP will assess the lesion and recommend removal if they consider it is likely to be cancerous or if you are concerned about the look of the lesion.

What to do if Your Skin Lesion requires removal

If your lesion is small, your GP may be able to remove the lesion at their clinic, which is usually a safe and inexpensive option. However, you may risk cosmetic scarring. With about 80% of skin lesions appearing on your face, head, or neck, many people want to reduce the risk of prominent scarring. That is where we come in.

Here at Randwick Plastic Surgery, our specialist plastic surgeons have extensive experience in skin surgery and reconstruction, ultimately providing the best cancer management and aesthetic result.

What Does Surgery Involve?

Small skin lesions can be removed, and the wound directly closed with sutures under local anaesthetic at our onsite facility.

Larger and / or more aggressive cancer lesions in more complex locations may require more complex reconstruction with a flap or skin graft. These procedures are more likely to be performed in a hospital setting with the aid of sedation or general anaesthesia.

Fees

Following your consultation, a quote for your procedure will be provided to you.

Fees quoted will depend on if you have multiple lesions, the surgery planned is complex, and /or we plan the surgery in a hospital.                    

Rebates may be available from Medicare for onsite procedures and Healthfunds for hospital procedures.

For more information on fees and rebates please visit the fee section on the FAQ page.

If you would like to know more about our skin lesion procedures, please visit our skin lesion information page here.

If you would like to make a booking for a consultation for your skin lesion, contact us on (02) 9399 8799 or visit our contact page here.

Resource:

https://www.cancer.org.au/

The post Some Things You Need to Know About Skin Lesions appeared first on Randwick Plastic Surgery.

A Plastic Surgeon is a Specialist Surgeon who has successfully completed the intensive training program 

of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeon (RACS) in Plastic Surgery.

Specialist Plastic Surgery in Australia requires surgeons to complete a minimum of 12 years of intensive medical and surgical training and at least 5 years of Specialist Plastic Surgery post-graduate training through RACS. Only after successfully completing this, are you entitled to become a member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and use the registered title of Specialist Plastic Surgeon.

Dr Sean Nicklin, Dr Sarah Tolerton and Dr Marc Langbart have all successfully completed this training and are qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeons.

What Is The Difference Between A Specialist Plastic Surgeon And A Cosmetic Surgeon?

Currently in most states in Australia including NSW there is no legislation to stop any doctor with a basic Medical degree calling themselves “Surgeon”. There are no specialist qualifications, skills, training or experience required to label oneself and indeed operate on patients as a “Cosmetic Surgeon”. The so-called “Cosmetic surgeons” are not recognised as specialists by the Medical Board. 

Cosmetic Surgery has been highlighted in the media more so now than ever. If it is often about surgery gone wrong, and they often highlight that people didn’t understand the difference between the terms ‘Cosmetic’ and ‘Plastic’ Surgeons.  All too often the patients say they thought they were dealing with a genuine Plastic Surgeon, but unfortunately they were not.

Our Recommendations

Your only safeguard is to look for the letters FRACS (Plas) under a doctor’s name and make sure that they are a member of The Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). Dr Sean Nicklin, Dr Sarah Tolerton and Dr Marc Langbart are all Specialist Plastic Surgeons are permitted to use these titles and memberships.

It is strongly recommended that you check the qualifications and credentials of any other doctor you are considering for plastic surgery and procedures with these two organisations.

For Members of Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons contact: ASPS – 1300 367 446 www.plasticsurgery.org.au

Fellows of Royal Australasian College of Surgeons contact: RACS – (03) 9249 1200 www.surgeons.org

Proceeding With Surgery

You should never feel pressured by a Surgeon or his staff to choose him/her as your surgeon or go ahead with a procedure. Remember it is your decision. Any surgical procedure can carry risks, but by consulting a Specialist Plastic Surgeon who is trained and fully qualified to perform all aspects of cosmetic and reconstructive surgery the chances of risks and complications are minimized.

The post Is My Surgeon a Qualified Specialist? appeared first on Randwick Plastic Surgery.

Introducing the newest member to the RPS team – Dr Sarah Tolerton. Dr Tolerton is an Australian-trained Plastic and Reconstructive Specialist Surgeon with a particular interest in Adult and Children’s Hand Surgery, Reconstructive Surgery, and Microsurgery.

Dr Tolerton is passionate about education and teaching, having represented trainees on the national board of plastic surgery throughout her training and currently tutoring Microsurgery as part of The University of Sydney Master of Surgery Course.

Research has played an integral part in Dr Tolerton’s career, graduating with a Research Honours as part of her medical degree and subsequently completing a thesis as part of the Master of Surgery at The University of Sydney. She undertook a Research Fellowship at the Sydney Hospital Academic Hand Unit prior to commencing her plastic surgery training, and most recently joined a laboratory-based research group at Imperial College whilst on fellowship in London.

She currently practices at multiple teaching hospitals including Sydney Hospital, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Prince of Wales Hospital, and The Children’s Hospital at Westmead.

Beyond Randwick Plastic Surgery and her public hospital appointments, Dr Tolerton tends to her long-standing passion for the arts, theatre, and dance.

If you would like to make an appointment to see Dr Tolerton in our private practice please call our rooms on 9399 8799.

We are delighted to have Dr Tolerton join our RPS team.

The post Welcome Dr Sarah Tolerton appeared first on Randwick Plastic Surgery.

A scar develops as part of the normal wound healing process. Within 2 to 3 days of the skin’s surface being injured, scar tissue fills in the injured area to close the wound. Scar tissue can continue to develop over many weeks or months.

How does a scar mature?

Immediately following wound healing, a scar is usually red in appearance and is referred to as an ‘immature’ scar. Between 3 months and 2 years the scar should become paler, flatter, and softer and can then be referred to as a ‘mature’ scar. To help your scar mature it is recommended that you massage and moisturise your scar. All scars should be monitored carefully and if your scar becomes a problem contact your doctor or occupational therapist.

What is a problem scar?

A scar is a problem if it is:

• purple or red
• raised
• feels hard or itchy
• restricts movement

Problem scars can sometimes be known as hypertrophic or keloid scars. Those at risk of developing a problem scar include people with: skin types known to scar easily, such as Mediterranean, Asian, African, and indigenous Australians. If you have experienced problems with scarring in the past, or if your wound’s healing is delayed please consult a doctor.

What to do if your scar becomes a problem?

Most scars do not produce poor cosmetic or functional results, however if a delicate balance is not achieved during the healing process a scar may display abnormalities resulting in more noticeable scars (called keloid or hypertrophic scars) that can be itchy and painful as well as unsightly.

Many factors influencing the quality of a scar include; the nature of the injury or surgery causing the scar, the location of the scar, the person’s innate wound healing properties, racial background, disease status, smoking, the technique of wound repair, and any complications during the wound healing phase.

Scar appearance can be improved with both nonsurgical treatments and surgery.

Non-surgical treatments:

•  Use Silicone: Silicone Gel or sheeting is universally considered to be the gold standard and first line of defence and treatment for hypertrophic and keloid scars. These gels and sheets can help with itching as well as reduce the size of scars through occlusion and hydration. We would recommend using these products as soon as the suture is healed
• Take Vitamin E: Vitamin E is believed to reduce the amount of reactive oxygen available during the inflammatory stage of healing.
• Massage: massage therapy can disrupt fibrotic tissue and increase the pliability of the scar. It can also improve swelling, thickening, and hardening of the scar tissue
• Wear clothing that covers your scar – for example,wear a long sleeve t-shirt or hat
• Use sunscreen (SPF 30 +) or zinc cream and stay in the shade when outdoors.

Rather than waiting until a scar becomes either hypertrophic or keloid, early treatment aimed at prevention is key.

Surgery:

There are several techniques for scar revision surgery depending on the type and size of the scar.

Options include:

• Completely removing the scar and then mending the wound again
• Taking skin from other areas to cover up the areas of the scar (also known as skin “flaps” or “grafts”)
• Making the scar less noticeable by changing the direction of the scar

The technique selected is highly dependant on the site and the specific type of scar problem.

Meticulous technique, both in removal of the existing scar and also the repair (suturing) of the wounds is paramount.

A common technique is z-plasty, where the orientation of the scar is changed to make it less visible.

The post operative care of the wound and removal of sutures is also very important.

If you have any concerns about scarring or your scars please contact our practice

The post Scar Treatment – how do we manage scars? appeared first on Randwick Plastic Surgery.

You can also find these medical terms under each procedure on our site.

BREAST RECONSTRUCTION

Mastectomy:  The medical term for removal of a breast or breasts.

Free tissue transfer:  Using your own tissue (usually from the abdomen) to create the new breast mound.

Immediate reconstruction:  Where your breast reconstruction surgery occurs at the same time as your mastectomy.

Delayed reconstruction:  Where your breast reconstruction surgery takes place months or years after your mastectomy.

Flap reconstruction:  Where tissue is used from another place on your body to form a breast shape. This tissue consists of skin, fat, and sometimes muscle and usually comes from the belly, back, buttocks, or inner thighs.

TRAM flap: Transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap – where the flap used to form the new breast is taken from the abdomen and includes some muscle.

DIEP flap:  Deep inferior epigastric perforator flap – where the flap consists of the skin and fat with the blood vessels of the abdomen only and not the six pack muscle.

Latissimus Dorsi flap:  An oval flap of skin, fat, muscle and blood vessels from your upper back

BREAST REDUCTION

Mammoplasty: plastic surgery of the breast

Reduction mammoplasty: Breast reduction surgery

Inferior pedicle / Anchor / Inverted T technique:  3 different names for the breast reduction technique that results in an inverted “T” scar down from the nipple to the underside of the breast

Vertical scar technique: The breast reduction technique possible for some small to medium breast reductions that results in a scar from the underside of the nipple down to under the breast but which does not result in a horizontal scar under the breast

BREAST LIFT

Mastopexy: surgical name for breast lift procedure

Vertical scar technique: The breast reduction technique possible for some small to medium breast reductions that results in a scar from the underside of the nipple down to under the breast but which does not result in a horizontal scar under the breast.

BREAST IMPLANT REVISION

Capsular contracture:  a capsule that has formed around an implant

MALE GYNAECOMASTIA

Gynaecomastia:  The development of breast tissue in a male

Areola:  Dark skin surrounding the nipple

Glandular Tissue:  Tissue present in the breast that is designed to secrete hormones

Liposuction:  Insertion of thin hollow suction tubes through several small incisions in the skin. Moving back and forth the tubes in a controlled motion loosens excess fat which is then removed from the body by vacuum suction

CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME:

Carpal tunnel:  A relatively small space in the wrist through which 9 tendons and the median nerve pass into the hand

Carpal tunnel release:  Surgery to relieve the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome

Median nerve:  Supplies some muscles that work the thumb, and give sensation to the thumb, index, middle and ring fingers

transverse carpal ligament:  The roof of the carpal tunnel

open CTR:  The release is performed by making an incision in the palm of the hand

endoscopic CTR :  When the release if performed by ‘keyhole’ surgery. Two small incisions are made and a camera is used to guide the surgery

DUPUYTRENS DISEASE:

Contracture:  A decrease in joint movement

Plantar Fibromatosis:  Another name for Dupuytren’s disease when it occurs in the sole/s of the feet

Fasciotomy:  A surgical procedure where the fascia is cut to relieve tension or pressure

Xiaflex®: An enzyme that can be injected to break down the Dupuytren’s disease

TRIGGER FINGER:

Tendon :  The tissue that attaches a muscle to a bone

Stenosing Tenosynovitis :  Trigger finger or thumb

Synovectomy :  Removal of tissue

Steroid Injection :  Injections usually comprised from cortisone medication and a local anaesthetic

Pulley:  Is another term for the tunnel which the pendon passes through

TRIGGER THUMB:

Stenosing Tenosynovitis:  Trigger thumb (or finger)

Synovectomy:  Removal of tissue

Node:  Swelling or enlargement involving a mass of tissue

GANGLION CYSTS:

Ganglion:  An abnormal non cancerous swelling on a tendon sheath

Cyst:  A closed sac-like structure that contains liquid gas or semisolid substance

DE QUERVAIN’S TENDONITIS:

De Quervain’s tendonitis/disease:  Inflammation of tendons that often causes pain in the thumb side of the wrist

BLEPHOROPLASTY:

Blepharoplasty:  The medical term for ‘eyelid surgery’

Upper blepharoplasty:  Surgery to the upper eyelid

Lower blepharoplasty:  Surgery to the area immediately below the eye

Crow’s Feet:  Wrinkles and fine lines that form around the outer corners of the eyes

OTOPLASTY:

Pinna: The external part of the ear

Cartilage: Connective tissue

SCAR REVISION:

Typical Scar:  A typical scar that is healing well may develop as quite red for 3-6 months before settling as a light coloured, flat scar by about 9-12 months once healing is complete

Keloid Scar:  Develops due to an overgrowth of tissue – usually red and raised and extend onto uninjured skin that surrounds the original site of operation or injury. If a keloid scar is removed it will often recur

Hypertrophic Scar:  Usually raised, red and painless

Contracture Scars:  Can occur if your skin has been burnt. These scars tighten skin, which can impair your ability to move and may also go deeper, affecting muscles and nerves

ABDOMINOPLASTY:

Abdominoplasty:  The medical term for a “tummy tuck” – the surgical procedure to correct the apron of excess skin hanging over the abdomen

Liposuction:  Also called lipoplasty or suction lipectomy, this procedure vacuums out fat from beneath the skin’s surface to reduce fullness

Diastasis:  Condition in which abdominal muscles have separated

Pannus:  A large apron of fat causing dermatitis, skin infection, &/or difficulty in walking

Apronectomy:  A surgical procedure to remove a large apron of fat (pannus)

Haematoma:  Excess blood accumulation beneath the skin

Seroma:  Excess fluid accumulation under the skin

LIPOSUCTION:

Liposuction:  Insertion of thin hollow suction tubes through several small incisions and moving back and forth of the tubes in a controlled motion to loosen excess fat which is then removed from the body by vacuum suction

Suction assisted lipectomy:  Another word for liposuction

Surgical lipectomy:  The removal of excess skin and fat by excision

Cannulae:  Thin hollow suction tubes

LABIAPLASTY:

Labia minora:  The smaller inner folds of the vulva

Labia majora:  The larger outer folds of the vulva

Labiaplasty:  Procedure to change the labia minora of the vulva

Vagina:  The muscular tube leading from the vulva to the uterus

Vulva:  The female external genitals / the external opening of the vagina

HYPERHIDROSIS:

Hyperhidrosis is the term for excessive sweating that usually occurs in the hands, feet, and trunk.

SKIN LESIONS:

Benign:  Non-cancerous lesion

Keratosis:  Non-cancerous excessive growth of keratin

Naevus:  Non cancerous mole or birthmark

Malignant:  Cancerous lesion

BCC:  Basal Cell Carcinoma – type of skin cancer

SCC:  Squamous Cell Carcinoma – type of skin cancer

Melanoma:  Cancerous lesion that develops from the pigment-containing cells known as melanocyte

Suture:  A stitch

MALE GYNAECOMASTIA:

Gynaecomastia:  The development of breast tissue in a male

Areola:  Dark skin surrounding the nipple

Glandular Tissue:  Tissue present in the breast that is designed to secrete hormones

Liposuction:  Insertion of thin hollow suction tubes through several small incisions in the skin. Moving back and forth the tubes in a controlled motion loosens excess fat which is then removed from the body by vacuum suction

SCAR REVISION:

Typical Scar:  A typical scar that is healing well may develop as quite red for 3-6 months before settling as a light coloured, flat scar by about 9-12 months once healing is complete

Keloid Scar:  Develops due to an overgrowth of tissue – usually red and raised and extend onto uninjured skin that surrounds the original site of operation or injury. If a keloid scar is removed it will often recur

Hypertrophic Scar:  Usually raised, red and painless

Contracture Scars:  Can occur if your skin has been burnt. These scars tighten skin, which can impair your ability to move and may also go deeper, affecting muscles and nerves

If there are any medical terms or procedures you would like to know more about please contact us for a consultation.

To find out more about the services we offer, or if you would like to speak with us about any procedures please contact our practice 

The post Are you having a procedure with us in 2019? Here are some medical terms you should know…… appeared first on Randwick Plastic Surgery.

We know how to drastically reduce the rates of skin cancer and the answer is avoiding the sun and wearing the best sunscreen consistently.

However, you should never rely solely on sunscreen. Limit your time in the sun, wear a hat, or lighter long sleeves and be sure you are reapplying your sunscreen throughout the day.

It is advised to protect neck, décolletage, and arms daily whether you are in the sun or not.

Dr. Sean Nicklin and our practice nurse  highly recommend Mineral Pro SPF 30+,  a  daily moisturiser with 20% zinc oxide. It gives you broad spectrum protection. With added antioxidant resveratrol, it can help protect your skin from harmful UV rays. It is light weight and fast absorbing.

Teach your kids and grandkids to Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek & Slide- http://www.sunsmart.com.au/tools/videos/current-tv-campaigns/slip-slop-slap-seek-slide-sid-seagull.html Enforcing this message will save them from future skin damage, burns, over tanning, over seeking the sun, and from possible melanomas, skin damage,  or cancer.

When choosing sunscreen:

1.  Aim for at least SPF 15 or higher (we’d advise 30 SPF in Australia) with broad spectrum UV protection
2.  Select with Mineral ingredients – zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide
3.  Pick water resistant or waterproof – to save from continuously applying after swimming

We’ve spoken to quite a few patients about sunscreen over the years and addressed their most common concerns:

• If you are concerned about heaviness or oiliness, choose Mineral Pro SPF 30+. This is very light and will feel smooth while protecting your face and neck (apply to back and front) all day
• If you work indoors or don’t go out during the day; you are always at risk of sun exposure. Think of walks through the workplace, your commute, taking a lunch break, or taking a break in the sunshine. UVA rays can penetrate clear glass and they are consistent year round, rain or shine. Laser and injection specialist Pam Jendritz, RN, reminds her patients “Just because you can’t see the sun doesn’t mean the sun can’t see you!”
• If you experience breakouts while using sunscreen; see a dermatologist who will advise on the best non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic formulas that won’t clog your pores.
• If you feel that it leaves a white cast; make sure you spread evenly or speak to a skin consultant about other options for your skin.
• If you are wary about chemicals, choose a sunscreen which is mineral, zinc, or titanium based. These sunscreens provide a physical block against the sun’s rays. They are broad spectrum, meaning they block more types of UV rays.
• If you feel that sunscreen affects your vitamin D; the safest way to get vitamin D is from well-balanced diet. Try foods like sockeye salmon, fortified milk, eggs, or mushrooms. Speak to a doctor or dietician about your vitamin intake, and choose foods enriched with the vitamins you need.
• If you want a base tan; opt for tinted moisturiser, bronzing powders, or sunless tanner if you want a glow! There are so many great products available.
• If you feel like you don’t burn; even if you have darker skin, you still might be at risk for getting melanoma. Although melanoma rates are highest among Caucasians, people with darker skins have a lower overall survival rate because too often melanoma isn’t diagnosed until an advanced stage.
• If sunscreen burns your eyes; be selective about the products, you use on your face. Speak to a dermatologist about formulas which are specifically protected and can be used around the eyes.

Did you know that sun exposure equals wrinkles? And 90% of skin ageing is caused by the sun. The leading consumer advocacy group in Australia put fourteen SPF 30 and 50+ face sunscreens and moisturisers to the test https://www.choice.com.au/health-and-body/beauty-and-personal-care/skin-care-and-cosmetics/articles/face-sunscreens-and-spf-moisturisers and it’s your onus to look after your skin (and body)

Invest in sunscreen … your skin and your body will thank you.

The post Sunscreen – Do I really need it? appeared first on Randwick Plastic Surgery.

Trigger finger (‘Stenosing Tenosynovitis’) presents as pain or clicking in the palm on bending of the fingers due to catching and/or irritation of tendons in the palm. Swelling can develop in the tendon creating a nodule which causes more irritation and further swelling. Ultimately, the swelling may get stuck in the tunnel that the tendon passes through, causing locking of the finger.

In children, trigger finger is rare and typically discovered as the finger is locked in a bent position. At our practice we treat both children and adults with trigger finger or thumb issues.

What symptoms does it cause?

Symptoms usually start without any injury, but can follow a period of heavy hand use.

Symptoms can include:

. a tender lump in the palm of your hand

. swelling

. a catching or popping sensation in your finger or thumb joints

. pain when bending or straightening your fingers.

Sometimes more than one finger can be affected at different times.

As non-surgical alternative treatments we suggest a combination of anti-inflammatory tablets, a splint, or a cortisone injection.

If symptoms persist or recur, then surgery is usually recommended.

Usually, trigger finger surgery is not urgent and can wait weeks to months for treatment. Surgical treatment is a day-only procedure and its goal is to widen the tunnel so that the tendon can slide through more easily. A small incision is made into the palm of the hand. The tendon sheath is cut releasing the tightness and when healed the tendon will move freely once again.

 After trigger finger surgery the finger can be moved immediately and the hand can be used as soon as it feels comfortable. The dressing is removed at the first appointment and usually recovery is complete within 2-3 weeks and no splints are required.

If you would like to enquire about the procedure and surgery, please contact our team here: https://www.randwickplasticsurgery.com.au/contact/

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