Cosmetic surgery has long been thought to be a female-dominated realm, with many women opting for a variety of different procedures. However, it’s important to remember that most cosmetic procedures are suitable for men and women and have a dramatic impact on self-esteem and mood. As it’s Movember, and male health is in the spotlight, it makes sense to discuss the options available to men who are interested in, or curious about, cosmetic surgery.
In recent years, men have become increasingly conscious of body image, and there are a few reoccurring issues that men worry about. As the results of a recent survey suggest, men’s top body image concerns include weight issues, hair loss and signs of ageing. There are a variety of cosmetic procedures that can help to reduce or alleviate these concerns.
Facelift
As people age, skin starts to naturally lose elasticity which can form wrinkles. A facelift usually offers a longer-lasting result than non-surgical procedures, and can help to produce a more natural, rejuvenated result. This can be done as soon as initial signs of ageing appear, and the sooner the procedure is carried out, the better the long-lasting results tend to be.
The intricate process involves making a small incision around the ear and lifting and tightening the skin. This allows the surgeon to manipulate facial muscles to produce the desired effect. The procedure takes place under general anaesthetic and full recovery takes around 8 weeks.
Eyelid and eye bag surgery
Another sign of ageing is the sagging of skin around the eyes. This can produce a tired look which automatically ages a person. Eyelid and eye bag surgery is a fantastic way to provide rejuvenation and can have a huge impact on overall appearance.
The procedure is known as an upper and lower blepharoplasty. The surgeon will make small incisions in the folds of the upper eyelid and just below the lashes on the lower lid. Excess skin and tissue will then be removed, and the incisions closed with very fine stitches. This is usually done under local anaesthetic.
Hair transplant
Hair loss is a very common issue and affects around 30-50% of men to varying degrees. Otherwise known as male pattern baldness, it’s caused by genetic risk and changes in hormone levels. It can affect men of any age and can start to show as early as the age of 20. By the age of 50, over 50% of all men in the UK experience some form of thinning or baldness.
There is no way to prevent male pattern baldness, however, with the latest technological advancements, surgeons are able to transplant hair follicles from another part of the body to the bald area.
The procedure is carried out using custom built, micro-surgical tools to ensure that each follicle is precisely removed intact with no damage to surrounding skin or tissue. The hairs are then grouped in the desired organisation on the bald area. Local anaesthetic is used making the slow transplantation process almost painless.
Chest reduction
Weight issues are often a cause of discomfort or embarrassment for men, and the chest area is usually one of the key areas of concern. Overdeveloped breast tissue is a common issue in men who are overweight or have recently lost weight, which can have a huge effect on their self-esteem.
The procedure is known as gynaecomastia surgery. It involves the surgeon making an incision under the arm or around the nipple. Excess skin and tissue is then removed, and sometimes liposuction is also performed to remove excess fat. This procedure is carried out under general anaesthetic.
Chest reduction patient
Haydn came to The McIndoe Centre as an Embarrassing Bodies – Live from the Clinic patient suffering from Gynaecomastia ("man boobs") after a large weight loss.
Liposuction
Similarly, the chest area and the abdomen are also key areas of concern for men struggling with weight issues. Sometimes diet and exercise plans are unsuccessful in shifting excess fat, especially from the stomach area.
In these cases, liposuction is a viable option. Liposuction permanently removes fat cells from the abdomen or problem area and can result in an overall improvement in body shape. The surgeon will make a small incision in the tummy or problem area and insert a thin tube. This is connected to a vacuum pump which is manoeuvred to break up and suck away fat cells. The procedure can take place under local or general anaesthetic.
In some cases, a tummy tuck may also be recommended if loose layers of skin are left after weight loss surgery.
At The McIndoe Centre we offer a variety of cosmetic procedures. To find out more about male cosmetic procedures, call us on 01342 488054 or send us an enquiry via the form.