The process of your procedure will depend on the procedure you have. We explain the processes for three common cosmetic procedures below.
Breast augmentation: the process explained
During this procedure, you will be placed under general anaesthetic. Your Surgeon will begin by making a cut in the skin next to or below your breast(s).
They will insert a breast implant through this incision in each breast.
There are two types of breast implants, each made from a different material: silicone or saline. You should discuss the benefits of each type of breast implant with your Surgeon to determine which implant will work best for you.
After your surgeon has positioned the implant(s), either between your breast tissue and chest muscles or behind your chest muscle, they will stitch the incision(s) to close your skin and cover it with dressing.
The operation typically takes between 60 and 90 minutes.
Facelift surgery: the process explained
Facelift surgery is usually carried out under general anaesthetic, but can sometimes be performed under local anaesthetic and sedation. There are three main types of facelifts performed surgically:
SMAS facelift: This surgery targets the lower two thirds of your face. During this procedure, your Surgeon will make incision(s) at your temple(s) above your hairline, that will travel down behind your ears. The skin and muscles beneath these incisions (including your facial and neck tissue and muscles) will be lifted and excess skin will be removed. You will have a head dressing after the procedure.
MACS facelift: During this surgery, your Surgeon will make an incision(s) from your temple(s) down in front of your ears, travelling just behind your earlobes. The skin and muscles beneath these incisions will also be lifted and excess skin will be removed.
Mid-facelift: A mid facelift targets the area below your lower eyelids and over your cheekbones. Your surgeon will make small cuts along your hairline and inside your mouth (in the groove above your upper teeth) or in your lower eyelid. They will use specialist surgical instruments and stitches to lift your cheeks and remove excess skin.
Most facelifts take two to three hours to perform.
Tummy tuck surgery: the process explained
There are 2 types of abdominoplasty surgery: partial and full abdominoplasty. Both are usually performed under a general anaesthetic.
During partial abdominoplasty, your Surgeon will make a large incision across your lower tummy, separate the skin from the abdominal wall below your belly button, remove any excess fat and skin, and then pull together your remaining skin before stitching it back in place.
During full abdominoplasty surgery, your Surgeon will make a large incision across your lower tummy, from hip to hip, just above your pubic area. They will then cut under the skin above your umbilicus (belly button), pulling it downwards and tightening it. They will also remove any excess fat and skin before stitching the incisions.