Melbourne Plastic Surgery Blog

On Sunday November 19th the team from Brighton Plastic Surgery will be participating in the 2017 Eureka Climb. This will see us climb 88 floors (that’s 1,642 stairs!) all the way to the top of the Eureka Sky Deck to help rebuild young lives and raise important funding for Interplast.

Interplast is a not-for-profit organisation working to improve the quality of life for people with disability who are disabled as a result of congenital or acquired medical conditions such as cleft lip and palate or burn scar contractures. They do this by sending fully qualified Australian and New Zealand volunteer plastic and reconstructive surgeons, anaesthetists, nurses and allied health professionals to the Asia Pacific region to provide free surgical treatment for patients who would otherwise not be able to afford access to such services. For Interplast,  it’s all about function and enabling full engagement in society. They also pride themselves on their intentions to leave a legacy. The aim? To do themselves out of a job. They focus heavily on facilitating medical training and mentoring for in-country medical personnel by supporting and building the capacity of local health services. Quite simply, their purpose is to provide life-changing surgery today and sustainable health systems tomorrow. 

Interplast has been close to the hearts of the BPS team for over 20 years. Mr Mutimer has been on more trips than he can remember and he is currently the President of Interplast. Whilst Interplast visit many countries in the Asia Pacific region, Sri Lanka is a country that Keith has worked closely with over the years on many levels and last year he was made an honorary member of their College of Surgeons, a very rare honour……..this is a country who, with the help of Interplast, is able to train their own surgeons to support their own surgical needs. Interplast's mission is to do themselves out of a job, to build capacity so they can be self sufficient, Sri Lanka is there! 2 of our nurses are also regular Interplast travellers, using their holidays to help change the lives of people in other countries.

This year we have 4 teams, 2 running (yes, totally mad!) and 2 walking teams (for the more sensible adventurers!!)

We'd love you to support us and this worthy cause as we put our bodies on the line to climb the Eureka Tower and raise money for Interplast.  Please click "DONATE NOW" below if you wish to donate. If not, not a worry, we're just happy that more people know about Interplast. Thank you for your support!

DONATE NOW

This blog post was originally published on the American Society of Plastic Surgeons website.  Some content has been changed to reflect equivalent certifying bodies in Australia.

Not all physicians are created equally: this is an essential consideration when looking for a plastic surgeon in Melbourne, or any other location for that matter. How do you choose a plastic surgeon? Ensuring safety throughout your plastic surgery journey is just as important as the procedure you want and the desired result. To ensure a safe surgery with an expert in the field, we have outlined a 10-point checklist below to help you in selecting a plastic surgeon, what to ask, and qualities for which to look.

• Your prospective surgeon should be certified by the appropriate specialty group for the procedure you are contemplating. With a multitude of medical practices throughout the country, you can immediately narrow your search down to doctors who are certified by the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS), this means they are a fellow of the College and will have FRACS after their name. In addition, the peak body in Australia for Specialist Plastic Surgeons (both reconstructive and cosmetic) is ASPS - check online that your surgeon is a member of ASPS. Do you want an occasional plastic surgeon or someone who has gone the extra mile to attain and maintain credentialing? RACS has a rigorous qualification, examination, and recertification process that ensures your plastic surgeon is qualified and an expert in their field.
• Find references you can trust. Ask people you trust, i.e. your GP, friends, and people you know in healthcare to give you recommendations on plastic surgeons they may know or of whom they have heard. Also, reach out to people you know who have had plastic surgery, ask about their experience, and if they are happy with the results. Lastly, go online: review sites can be great places to see what people are talking about with a plastic surgeon. Remember, though, online reviews are not vetted so they might not be as authentic as they appear. A good guide for truth vs fiction is a rating site that has as many good and some not so good ratings. This is more realistic and truthful than someone who has a thousand great ratings and no negative ones. That is a red flag for fake reviews.
• Examine your prospective surgeon's website. First look at the biography section of the plastic surgeon, this will give you information about their experience as well as certification. If there is no biography listed, ask yourself why. A great plastic surgeon will have nothing to hide. A well-organised website, with great design, and detailed information can tell you a lot about a prospective surgeon. Remember, also, that everyone can be famous on their own website, so, when referencing credentials, make sure also to research what each certification means, how is it obtained, how is it maintained, and what qualifications one must have to get that certification.
• Verify that your prospective surgeon has hospital privileges. "Hospital privileges" refers to the right of a surgeon to use the equipment and facilities at a given hospital. Even though you might have your procedure at a Day Hospital rather than an overnight hospital, hospital privileges indicate that your surgeon has been vetted by their peers and by a hospital committee. It should be a red flag if your prospective plastic surgeon does not have hospital operating privileges.
• Enquire about your surgeon's specific experience. You have the right to make sure the surgeon is right for you, possessing the experience and expertise they claim. A qualified plastic surgeon will be more than happy to explain his experience and expertise. If not, that should be a red flag. Make sure to ask if the procedure you are seeking is something they do at least once a week and is it in their top three procedures performed.
• Ask your prospective surgeon to clarify all potential benefits, risks, and complications. If your prospective surgeon answers questions with "everything will be fine," or "you will not feel a thing," this should be a red flag that your surgeon is not being honest with you. Plastic surgery, as relatively safe as it is, can have complications and each patient's medical history can present different risks. Your plastic surgeon should be readily forthcoming with information about risks and potential complications.
• When it comes time for surgery, if you don’t have to stay overnight, it should be performed in an accredited Day Hospital. Accredited Day Hospitals are subject to internal and external inspection by credentialing agencies, thus must maintain a facility that operates in such a manner. This type of facility will also have the emergency equipment and training necessary to respond to an emergency if the need arises. Check your Day Hospital is licensed and accredited.
• A great surgeon will employ a carefully selected and certified anaesthetist. The person administering your anaesthesia is pivotal to ensuring a relaxing and comfortable procedure. A reputable plastic surgeon will only engage anaesthetists that deliver the same quality of care that they deliver.
• Discuss your recovery period with your prospective surgeon. Understanding the recovery process and what to expect especially in the first 24-48 hours is crucial to maintaining safety. Every surgical recovery is unique, and your surgeon should explain in detail what to expect and how to get in touch with his or her staff if necessary.
• Get additional opinions from appropriate professionals, if needed or desired. Remember: This is your body, and you are the boss. Choosing a plastic surgeon is a very personal decision. Selecting a plastic surgeon is an interview process, and sometimes 2 or 3 consultations with different surgeons are necessary to find one that meets your criteria and makes you feel comfortable.

Ultimately when deciding on a RACS qualified plastic surgeon, you must find someone who has experience, who is an expert in the desired field, and who can show you proof of exceptional results. Deciding to undergo surgery to alter your appearance is a big decision and should not be taken lightly. As an educated consumer, you must do your part to determine what you want, do your homework, and seek expert consultation. By following the above steps, you can rest assured that you are making a well-informed decision.

Interplast is a wonderful charity that Mr Mutimer has been involved with for many years. In a first for Interplast, and in what promises to be an awesome night, they have organised a concert featuring Australian icons Daryl Braithwaite, Russell Morris and Chris Wilson, and hosted by Richard Stubbs.

'Changing Futures with a little help from our Friends' will be held on Wed 11th October 7:30pm at The Athenaeum Theatre, with all proceeds from the night going to Interplast. We'd love you to come along to what is sure to be a great evening! 

Visit the Interplast website to find out more.

Facial implants are a common and effective solution to enhance ones facial proportions.  When we refer to facial implant surgery this generally covers both  cheek implants or a chin implant.  Both can renew or improve your facial contours.

The chin is considered one of the most important aesthetic landmarks of the lower face.  When combined with the nose the chin determines how balanced an individual’s facial profile is.  In both men and women a prominent chin will counteract age related changes to the lower face and neck, can help prevent the formation of jowls and strengthens the overall jaw line.

Cheek implants, often referred to as cheek augmentation, can give fullness to flat cheekbones and restore a more youthful look.  Genetics, trauma or ageing in general can result in a person losing or having inadequate volume in the cheek area.  Cheek implants can help minimise this. 

Chin and cheek implants both generally provide subtle enhancements, aiming to provide overall improvements to facial symmetry and a more youthful and balanced look. Mr Mutimer is an advocate for natural looking facial implant surgery.   If you are considering a chin implant or cheek implants it is important that you consult with a Specialist Plastic Surgeon who is best placed to assess your unique situation and discuss with you realistically what can be achieved. 

Our website has additional information on facial implant surgery including cost estimates and the ability to view procedures in 3D.  Alternatively feel free to contact us should you have further questions or wish to make a confidential enquiry.

Recently Mr Mutimer, along with Mr Shayan and Practice Nurses, Chrissy and Simone, attended the Plastic Surgery Congress (PSC) on the Gold Coast.  The Plastic Surgery Congress brings together the best in scientific and medical education from around Australia and the world and involves high quality presentations and networking events with colleagues, peers and opinion leaders.

Keith attended in his role as President of Interplast Australia & New Zealand. At the PSC Interplast supported the ongoing training of Plastic Surgeons in countries with which they run programs- in this case by sponsoring plastic surgeons from some of these countries to attend this event.

Here are a few images from the event:

Plastic surgery related fat injections, also referred to as fat grating is becoming quite a popular plastic surgery procedure in Australia with many surgeons now using fat grating techniques as both a stand-alone technique and/or as part of their approach to facelift surgery. 

The procedure involves transferring small amounts of a patients’ own body fat into areas of the body – often the face which is what we are focusing on here.  As we age, we lose volume in our skin. Fat injections aim to replace some of this volume, resulting in a more youthful appearance.

Fat injections can be used in many different areas of the face however most popular areas include the cheeks (resulting in a more rounded, fuller appearance of the cheeks) and also to fill out nasolabial folds (the vertical lines/sagging that appear from your nose down to your mouth). Lower eyelids and corners of the mouth are also commonly treated with fat injections. When used in isolation, fat grafting does not stop the process of ageing but it can often help in postponing more invasive procedures such as a facelift or brow lift.

So, how do you determine if you are a good candidate for fat injections? It is always best to consult with a Plastic Surgeon to determine what, if any, procedure is best suited to you and the results you desire.  Having said that commonly fat injections may work for you if you:

• Desire large volume enhancements
• Are physically in good health
• Have a mild to medium degree of facial ageing
• Are realistic about what can be achieved with fat injections

Results from fat injections can be long-lasting, however do vary from patient to patient. Fat injections are not permanent and will more often than not, have to be repeated. Although the time in between treatments does vary from patient to patient. We generally say that you should expect to lose around 50% of the initial fullness within the first 6 months.

If you would like to find out more about fat injections or book a consultation with Mr Mutimer feel free to call us on 03 9592 0522 or submit an enquiry through our site.

Fresh off the plane yesterday, Mr Mutimer recently took part in a whirlwind trip to Nepal in his capacity as President of Interplast Australia & New Zealand.

Whilst in Nepal Keith met with Nepalese Government and Australian Embassy officials along with hospital administrators in Kathmandu to continue strengthening relationships in Nepal so that Interplast may continue their capacity to deliver programs in the area. There was an Interplast team working with the hospital staff during this time and they gave the hospital a sewing machine so that they would be able to make their own garments for their burns patients, a great addition to a hospital that already has remarkable sustainability systems in place.

Coinciding with his visit, Keith was also there to meet and thank members of an Interplast fundraising team, led by the always inspirational Turia Pitt, who departed Kathmandu for the hair raising plane ride into the world’s most dangerous airport (Lukla), and subsequent trek Everest Base Camp.

Keith was also fortunate to meet with Rotary volunteers & visitors whilst in Nepal to thank them for all of their fundraising efforts. A lot to fit into 4 days but an extremely successful and memorable trip. 

Above: Mr Mutimer (right) with senior medical staff.

Above: Local and visiting team members . The sewing machine was a gift to the hospital so that they can make their own compression garments for burns patients.

Above: Sewing machine/compression garments instruction session.

Above: Nepal Cleft & Burn Centre

So you’ve done your research, found your preferred plastic surgeon and decided to undergo rhinoplasty nose surgery.

While we have many specific pre and post care instructions and techniques that all contribute to your nose surgery being a success, and while recommendations are provided to each patient on an individualised basis, we’ve outlined some general recommendations and tips that you can follow to best prepare for your rhinoplasty surgery – in the weeks leading in, and on the day of surgery.

1. If you are a smoker – now is the time to stop (at least 4 weeks before your procedure) Nicotine impedes the healing process. If you feel that you cannot quit we urge you to discuss your smoking with your surgeon well in advance of having your rhinoplasty surgery so that you can understand the impact this may have on your recovery and results.

2. There are certain medications and supplements that you should cease at least 2 weeks prior to surgery, and for several weeks after. These include things like aspirin, ibuprofen, Vitamin E and some herbal supplements. If you are on any type of meal replacement program, you may need to cease or make adjustments to this also. We strongly suggest that you discuss with your surgeon, any meal replacement plans you may be on along with all of the medications you are taking (herbal, non-herbal and prescription) so that they may advise you on which are safe to continue taking and which ones you will need to cease taking (and for how long).

3.  Stock up on any regular prescriptions and medications ahead of your surgery date if possible. Discuss these with your surgeon ahead of time and try to be as organised as possible with what you may need ahead of your surgery date. It is important that you rest at home after surgery to reduce the risk of bleeding so will need others to shop for you, so it will be easier to be prepared beforehand.

4.  Buy a good lip conditioner/balm and ensure you have plenty of your favourite beverages on hand.  Your nose will be out of action (from a breathing perspective) for a while and as a result your mouth can often get dry from continually breathing through it. So keep your lips (and body) well hydrated.

5.  Make sure you are 100% comfortable with your rhinoplasty procedure and what you are hoping to achieve. The weeks leading in to your nose surgery is the time you want to feel satisfied that you and your plastic surgeon are on the same page. There is absolutely no reason to not discuss any worries or concerns you have about your upcoming procedure.  If you are feeling anxious, schedule another appointment with your surgeon to alleviate any fears you may have or to ask additional questions.

6. Arrange transportation for after your surgery. As with any surgery, you will not be permitted to drive after the surgery has taken place, and possibly for days or several weeks post surgery.

7. Ensure you have a carer to help you for the first few days post surgery. In some cases you may need help on hand for slightly longer. Organise a friend or relative to come and stay with you for a few days so that you have someone to support you, pick the kids up from school, walk the dog, help prepare your meals and drinks and someone who can help you keep track of your medications, and any post-surgical instructions that your surgeon may want you to adhere to.

8. Take care of any stressful work or strenuous activity BEFORE going in for surgery. You will be advised to avoid heavy lifting and sports for some time post op so get everything done to give yourself adequate time to rest and recuperate.

9. Bring practical clothing to wear home from your nose surgery.  If possible avoid anything that you will need to lift over your head. Loose, comfortable clothing is recommended.

Remember there is no such thing as a stupid question, especially when it comes to something as important as rhinoplasty nose surgery and your resulting appearance.  To find out more or to book a consultation with a Melbourne Plastic Surgeon, submit an enquiry via our website or phone 03 9592 0522.

It’s almost Christmas! Where has the year gone? As we inch closer to the end of another year we thought we would take this opportunity to recap on the year that was.  2016 has been a really positive year for Mr Mutimer and the team at Brighton Plastic Surgery.

Mr Mutimer was recently appointed President of Interplast Australia & New Zealand.  Interplast is a charity that Keith has been involved with since 1984 so he was honoured to take the position and continue his work with this remarkable organisation into 2017.

In August Mr Mutimer was made an honorary member of the Sri Lankan College of Surgeons (CSSL). He received this fellowship in recognition of his distinguished services in the field of surgery.  Through his extensive work with Interplast and in conjunction with the Sri Lankan College of Surgeons, he has played an integral part in setting up the CSSL plastic surgery training program.

Dr Ramin Shayan was in the spotlight this year for his pioneering work in treating lipoedema and lymphoedema patients. In June he was featured in a story on Lipoedema on Channel 10’s The Project and he continues to see an ever increasing number of patients seeking treatment for these debilitating conditions.

Our day surgery maintained its full accreditation this year. This means that all the standards that are set by ISO (international Standards Organisation) and the NSQHSS (National Safety and Quality Health Service Standards) were met with no findings or follow up required in any of the 300 plus areas examined, a pretty impressive outcome for a relatively small practice.

Which leads us to finish with our face lift! Not the kind you are automatically thinking of but a new “front” to Brighton Plastic Surgery.  We will be closed from midday 23^rd December and will be re-opening 16^th Jan.  During this time the majority of work to our “new face” will take place so when you next pop in to see us, things may look a little fresher ;)

Finally we would like to take this opportunity to wish you a safe and happy festive season. We look forward to seeing you in 2017.

In August this year Mr Mutimer travelled to Sri Lanka, where he was extremely honoured and humbled to receive an Honorary Fellowship of The College of Surgeons of Sri Lanka (CSSL).  CSSL was formed over four decades ago.  Mr Mutimer received the fellowship in recognition of his distinguished services in the field of surgery.  Through his extensive work with Interplast, and in conjunction with  CSSL Mr Mutimer has played an integral part in setting up the CSSL plastic surgery training program.  When Interplast first commenced their work with Sri Lanka there were 2 plastic surgeons, 1 of whom retired the day they arrived.  Now they have the capacity to train their own plastic surgeons, a legacy Mr Mutimer and all involved are very proud of.

Interplast is the preferred charity of Brighton Plastic Surgery.