Hyperpigmentation refers to the darkening or discoloration of certain areas of the skin, resulting in patches or spots that are darker than the surrounding skin. It has been one of the most common concerns of patients that have sought advice and treatment at SkinCision By Allen Rezai MD’s Harley Street Clinic in London. This condition occurs when there is an overproduction of melanin, the pigment responsible for giving colour to our skin, hair, and eyes. While hyperpigmentation is generally harmless, it can be a source of self-consciousness for many individuals. In this article, we explore the causes, prevention methods and various treatment options for skin hyperpigmentation.

1. Sun Exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun stimulate the production of melanin, leading to sunspots or age spots on the skin.
2. Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, menopause, or while taking certain medications can trigger Melasma, a condition where brown or greyish patches of pigmentation develop on the skin. Melasma is often worsened by sun exposure in the summer and can improve in wintertime.
3. Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation: Inflammatory skin conditions like acne, eczema, or skin injuries can leave behind dark marks or scars as the skin heals.
4. Genetic Factors: Some individuals are genetically predisposed to develop hyperpigmentation, particularly conditions like freckles or moles.

1. Topical Treatments: Advanced skincare products that is backed by Science such as SkinCeuticals, can help lighten dark spots and counter pigmentation over time. Over-the-counter topical skincare products like Retinoids can also ease in and help improve pigmentation. These products promote rapid exfoliation and stimulation of collagen and elastin, which leads to smoother-looking skin. At SkinCision By Allen Rezai MD, we help determine the products that best complement the Signature SkinCision Treatments and Procedures our patients have through detailed consultation.

 

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2. The Perfect Peel: This procedure involves applying a chemical solution to the skin to exfoliate the outer layer, revealing fresh, even-toned skin underneath. The Perfect Peel Treatment is a medical grade medium depth peel that is suitable for all skin types. It is an effective treatment for certain types of hyperpigmentation that is offered at our clinic

 

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3. Inmode’s Lumecca IPL: The Lumecca™ IPL therapy is a powerful and effective treatment available in SkinCision By Allen Rezai MD Clinic at London Harley Street. Lumecca reduces and removes hyperpigmentation and vascular lesions in the skin, from redness and spider veins to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (like, acne spots) and sun damage pigmentation.

 

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Consistency is key when it comes to preventing hyperpigmentation. Maintaining a regular skincare routine along with implementing the following measures can help keep your skin tone even and healthy.

1. Sun Protection: The most effective way to prevent sun-induced discoloration is to diligently apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or greater, every day, even on cloudy or cool days., seeking shade, and using protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses.
2. Antioxidants: Use skincare products with antioxidants. Products containing ingredients like vitamin C, vitamin E, green tea extract, or niacinamide can help fight free radicals that contribute to hyperpigmentation.
3. Gentle Exfoliation: Exfoliate your skin regularly (1-2 times per week) with a gentle exfoliator to remove dead skin cells and promote cell turnover. This can help even out your complexion.
4. Prompt Treatment of Inflammatory Skin Conditions: Blemishes or acne can often lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and should be treated as and when it occurs. Avoid picking at or popping pimples to minimise the risk of dark spots.
5. Hormonal Balance: If hormonal changes are contributing to your hyperpigmentation, discuss possible treatment options with your endocrinologist to balance your hormones.

With a detailed consultation, correct approach and treatment plan, Hyperpigmentation can be effectively managed. Bear in mind that skin treatments often require time to show visible improvements. If you’re unsure about the best course of action, it’s always recommended to consult with our Skincare Specialists at SkinCision By Allen Rezai MD who can provide tailored guidance based on your specific needs.

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If you are considering breast augmentation or breast implant surgery in London, it’s important to be your own advocate. Do your research and find a plastic surgeon who takes his time and discusses all aspects of the procedure with you, including the very important aftercare and recovery.

At Consultant Plastic, Aesthetic & Reconstructive Surgeon, Mr Allen Rezai’s Practice, the most integral part of your journey with us is your initial consultation. It is important for you to be fully informed, have all your questions answered and know what to expect in terms of recovery, prior to undergoing surgery. In this article, we share with you some of the common questions our patients ask during their initial consultation with Mr Allen Rezai. It is important that you follow your own surgeon’s instructions as it may vary to what we recommend to our patients.

After breast augmentation surgery it is important to keep the dressing dry thus, we advise our patients to use wet wipes to clean their upper body and maintain good hygiene until we see them for their 5-7 days follow-up.  From 7 days post-op you may take a shower, preferably not longer than 10-15 minutes. Baths can only be resumed 4-6 weeks after surgery, once the incision is fully healed from the outside this is to reduce the risk of infection. You may be provided with specific instructions based on the progress of your healing.

Depending on your recovery, you may start driving from 10-14 days after a breast augmentation surgery. This timeframe allows for the initial recovery period and ensures that you are comfortable and able to perform the necessary movements required for safe driving. The time frame may vary depending on your individual situation and healing.

The recovery time after breast augmentation varies for each individual. We generally recommended to take 1-2 weeks off work to allow for proper healing. Many times, if your job is office based and non-strenuous, one week would be more than enough for the initial recovery.

We advise our patients to wear a post-surgery / sports bra for about 4-6 weeks after surgery, to provide support and help with the healing process. If your implants are placed under the muscle, a breast band should also be worn for about a week, 10 days, to level the upper breast poles and prevent the implants from moving upwards with sudden movements. Both the bra and the compression band, if applicable, may be removed for an hour a day.

Following you 4-6 weeks follow-up appointment with us, you may start wearing regular non-wired bras but for underwired bras, you should wait 6 months as the wire can hinder the healing process and cause unnecessary complications.

After a breast augmentation surgery, it usually takes several weeks to several months for the implants to settle in place. The initial swelling, firmness and tightness will gradually subside, and the implants will begin to naturally drop and settle into a more natural position. Generally submuscular implants take longer to settle in comparison to subglandular implants. It is important to understand that the settling process varies between individuals, and we are not able to speed up this process. You need to be patient and allow your body to heal and for your implants to settle in place at their own pace.

We recommend waiting at least 4-6 weeks after your breast implant surgery before resuming exercise and strenuous activities. Once you’ve been to your 4-6 weeks appointment with Mr Allen Rezai, and he gives the all clear, you may ease into your regular fitness routine. Always wear a high impact sports bra and remember that it may take few weeks to months for you to regain the full strength you had prior to surgery. Always listen to your body, start gently, and work your way up over time.

The timing for resuming intimate activities after breast augmentation can vary based on individual healing rates. Generally, it is recommended to wait at least 4 weeks before engaging in any strenuous physical activities including sexual intercourse. Remember that everyone is different, and you may require more time to recover and heal, it’s important to listen to your body and resume intimate relations when you feel ready.

Aftercare is as important as the actual surgery and it is during the follow-up appointments that your healing can be assessed.  At Mr Allen Rezai’s practice the routine follow up appointments after breast augmentation surgery are, 5-7 days, 4-6 weeks, 9 months and thereafter yearly if the patient wishes. These appointments are NOT optional but essential for monitoring your healing process, checking for any complications or concerns, and assessing the final result of your breast augmentation. After the first year, annual check-ups with Mr Allen Rezai are recommended to ensure the long-term health and well-being of your breasts.

We advise our patients to NOT book any holiday until 4-6 weeks after the operation, this will allow enough time for proper healing and reduces the risk of complications. However, some of our patients are required to travel/fly for work and in these instances, we recommend waiting at least 2 weeks for short haul and 3 weeks for long haul flights after breast augmentation surgery.

It should be noted that the healing process continues for months and for some people up to a year after the surgery, thus it is important to follow the advice and instructions given at every stage after your surgery as this will certainly impact the end results.

We recommend that you wait with having breast surgery if you are planning to conceive within a year or two. It is ideal to complete your family first prior to having any type of breast surgery as changes during pregnancy and breast feeding may have some impact on your breast augmentation results. However, it is not unsafe to become pregnant after breast augmentation surgery, it is typically recommended to wait at least several months after the surgery before trying to conceive to allows for a proper healing period and give the body time to adjust to the breast implants.

Although some breast implants come with a lifetime warranty from the manufacturer, it does not mean that they will last forever. The reality is that no one really knows how long breast implants last. With the Mentor implants that we use, there is no need for routine replacement after a certain number of years, for some they can last a lifetime whereas others may develop an implant related complication and would require some type of surgery within few years of their initial augmentation surgery.

It is important to understand and accept that having breast implants would mean that you’d need to undergo further surgery at some point in your life, this can be for various reasons, either to address any implant related complication or to simply improve the size and shape of your breasts following weight loss, pregnancy, or natural ageing.

After breast augmentation surgery, scar care is an important aspect of the recovery process. You’ll be provided with detailed instructions on how to care for your scars during the first year after surgery. It is important to allow your scar to fully close and heal from outside before applying any silicone gels, creams, or sheets. We normally recommend waiting at least 4 weeks and many times, especially if you do not have tendency to develop bad scarring, there’s no need to apply silicone gel or sheets on your incisions as overtime they’ll heal and fade into a fine line on their own.

Remember, healing of scars is a gradual process and results may vary depending on individual circumstances. It’s important to be patient and allow your scars to heal at their own pace.

Create proportion, improve shape, and correct asymmetry for a “natural look”

Breasts are one of the defining features of being female and have a significant influence upon a woman’s appearance and body image.

What constitutes the ideal or perfect female breast is a question with no single correct answer, since it has always depended upon époque, nationality, culture, and fashion trends. Often, creating proportion, improving shape, and correcting asymmetry are the most common reasons why women seek breast surgery.

In spite of the ever-increasing number of breast surgeries carried out each year, the decision to actually proceed with surgery is very personal to you and you owe it to yourself to not take this decision lightly and not be unduly swayed by the opinions of others or by holding unrealistic expectations. The decision should be yours, and yours alone; and this should be founded upon appropriate advice from a highly experienced plastic surgeon.

Under the leadership of Mr Allen Rezai, a leading Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon of Harley Street, London, the clinic’s expert team offers a range of breast surgery procedures, depending on what patients are looking to achieve.

They advocate a “natural look” – one in which the breasts look, feel, and move naturally. Their Plastic Surgeons utilise the least invasive approach possible to achieve the best possible outcome with minimal scarring.

They believe not only in educating each one of their patients as to what is available and appropriate, but also in formulating a personalised treatment plan for each individual.

As Mr. Rezai himself explains, “my team and I at Harley Street London, understand that everyone that walks through our doors is unique – with different anatomies, lifestyles, goals and personal circumstances.

“We also believe that truly successful results are achieved, not only with technical excellence, but with outcomes that best fit your needs and desires. Having treatment with us is a consultative process – we want to understand what it is you want to achieve and guide you towards the best and most effective way of achieving it.”

There are several reasons or conditions that might lead an individual to consider undergoing breast surgery. These include:

• Disproportionate Breasts – Breasts may be either too small or too large.
• Asymmetrical Breasts – Breasts may be asymmetrical in shape and/or size to an extent that makes the individual uncomfortable.
• Deflated Breasts- Loss of volume and sagging possibly following pregnancy or significant weight loss.
• Underdeveloped Breasts – When minimal to no breast tissue is present.
• Breast Deformity – one example is Tuberous breast deformity which is a congenital condition.
• Breast Cancer – Patients who undergo mastectomy and consider reconstructive surgery to restore their breasts.
• Gynecomastia –or over-sized male breasts that may become cause of embarrassment and low self-esteem.
• Breast Revision Surgery – Patient has had previous breast surgery and is simply unhappy with the results.

Keep reading to learn some quick facts about various breast surgeries and underneath each paragraph you can find links to articles about the procedure with more comprehensive information.

These will of course not replace a one-to-one consultation; nevertheless, they can be part of the first step as you begin your research and decision-making process into your desired surgery.

When considering breast enhancement surgery, a thorough consultation is necessary.

Breast Augmentation is by far the most popular procedure requested by women around the world. Irrespective of anything you may have heard to the contrary, there are absolutely no medicines or exercises that are currently available to increase the size of the breast permanently, evenly, and safely.

At present, the only recognised technique for increasing breast size is to insert an implant into a space created behind the person’s own breast tissue. During the recent years fat transfer is also being used to increase the size of a breast, however, the results seem to be short-lived, and the procedure would need to be repeated at least a few times to obtain a more long-term result.

When considering breast enhancement surgery, or any other surgery or procedure for that matter, a thorough consultation is necessary, you should be able to discuss your concerns and goals with wanting surgery, and be fully assessed and be informed of your options, the implications of surgery and whether or not you are a suitable candidate.

Although nothing can take the place of a one-to-one consultation with an experienced Plastic Surgeon, Mr. Rezai a leading Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon of Harley Street, London shared with us some of the questions he commonly hears from patients considering breast enhancement surgery.

If you are considering breast implant surgery, selecting the right Size, Shape and Profile or Projection of implants are among the most significant decisions you would have to make. Today, most commonly used implants are silicone gel which comes in a variety of sizes, shapes, cohesivity, and profiles. It is not an easy decision especially as many patients are not aware of the variation in implant shape and profile. Unfortunately, some surgeons have a preference for a certain implant type or profile, thus fail to inform patients of ALL the available options and only focus on what they prefer to use.

Whether you are adding volume, improving shape or increasing size, selecting the right implant is crucial for achieving the desired outcome. A patient’s height, width of shoulders and hips, chest anatomy and measurements, thickness of breast tissue and desired look, are factors that dictate the selection of the implants best suited for the individual.

A thorough consultation with a qualified and experienced Plastic Surgeon, is necessary to discuss your concerns and goals with wanting implant surgery, be fully assessed and be informed of all your options, including the various types of implants available, discuss the type(s) that would suit your frame and WHY. It is also important to discuss the possible risks and complications associated with breast implants. Having more information and a clear understanding about implants will ensure you make an informed decision.

In this article, Mr Allen Rezai, Consultant Plastic, Aesthetic & Reconstructive Surgeon shares his opinion on 5 things you should learn about sizes, shapes and profiles of breast implants, the differences and similarities between your options, and how to select the right option for you.

It’s important to be mindful of the golden ratio when achieving a natural look breast enhancement. But what is it?

Harley Street Consultant Plastic, Aesthetic & Reconstructive Surgeon Mr Allen Rezai explains the golden ratio in breast anatomy as a way of assessing the appearance of the breasts via a three-dimensional, frontal, lateral and vertical geometric view; based on the historically known golden or divine ratio, Phi (1/1.618). And as well as the mathematical calculations, for Mr Rezai; the Golden Ratio is all about creating breasts that are proportional to the rest of the body.

Phi (also known as the Golden Ratio) is a proportion that exists throughout nature and has been used by artists for millennia. It can be found in the great pyramids of Egypt, the spirals of flower, facial aesthetics and even the shape of the human breast.

There’s been various studies looking at what the most attractive breast shape is perceived to be; taking into account the ratio of the upper to lower pole of the breast, with the level of the nipple marked the dividing line between the upper and lower poles. These ratios include 35:65, 45:55, 50:50, and 55:45.

The breast ratio which is most often discussed in the media is 45:55, 45 percent of the breast would be above the nipple (upper pole) and 55 percent below the nipple (lower pole). However, beauty is in the eyes of the beholder and despite the maths, Mr Allen Rezai is keen to clarify that it isn’t ideal to define beautiful and natural breasts 100% based on this ratio alone. As every individual is different in terms of anatomy, lifestyle and preference.

Mr Allen Rezai explains further, “The Golden Ratio for me is creating breasts that are in proportion with the rest of the body. The most attractive breast size and shape is one that complements a person’s figure, rather than under- or overwhelms it, and this has all to do with proportion.

With the “natural look” and the Golden Ratio in mind, I consider the patient’s height, weight, breast width, breast height and the distance that exists between the nipple and breast fold when planning their breast enhancement – as well as my patient’s preference in terms of upper and lower breast pole volume. These factors combined mean that I am able to determine the best breast implant type and size for the patient’s body, as well as the best surgical techniques to employ.

Creating a bespoke treatment plan based on above mentioned points provides natural and aesthetic long lasting results with few complications.

A detailed consultation and correct planning are key in achieving the best possible outcome for you.

The most attractive breast size and shape is one that complements a person’s figure, rather than under or overwhelms it, and this is all to do with proportion.

Thinking of booking breast enhancement surgery? World renowned Plastic, Aesthetic & Restorative Consultant Surgeon Mr Allen Rezai shares his wealth of experience and expert advice on achieving a beautifully natural look.

Breast augmentation is by far the most popular procedure requested by women around the world.

Irrespective of anything you may have heard, there are absolutely no medicines or exercises currently available that increase the sizes of breasts permanently… and evenly. At present, the only recognised technique for increasing breast size is to insert an implant into a space created behind the person’s own breast tissue. However, during recent years fat transfer has also been introduced as an alternative method to increase the size of a breast; but depending on the amount of usable fat in your body, this procedure may need to be repeated few times to achieve the desired result (whereas using an implant is a one-time procedure.)

“Contrary to popular belief, natural results in breast augmentation surgery are achievable with both round – as well as teardrop – shaped implants,” explains expert London Harley Street Surgeon Mr Allen Rezai MD.

“What is the secret, you may ask? Well, think of it as being a little like going shoe shopping. You wouldn’t buy a pair of shoes too big or too small for your feet – nor would you buy a pair that were too tight or too wide for you. You’d purchase a pair in the right size, shape and width for your feet… shoes which fit your feet perfectly – or as close to perfectly, as possible! The same concept applies to breast implant surgery. Similarly to shoe sizing, you’ll receive a bespoke treatment plan with the right implant shape, size, profile and placement based on your indications – all of which are crucial in achieving natural results; or the perfect fit.”

Achieving natural-looking breast enhancement is as much an art as it is a science. Mr Rezai is a firm believer that the ultimate goal with breast augmentation surgery (or any other type of breast surgery for that matter) should be creating proportion between chest area and rest of the body. Many times, choosing implants that are too small for your build can look as unnatural as having too large implants. Creating proportion should be the main objective when it comes to achieving a “natural look”.

There is no set method in achieving natural-looking results. Instead, the treatment plan should be personalised for each patient; as every individual is different in terms of anatomy, lifestyle and preference.

During consultation, Mr Rezai will examine his patients, taking necessary breast measurements. Based on these – and his observations, he can then recommend a size range and profile that fits the patient’s anatomy; to provide natural results.

Mr Rezai evaluates the following factors when creating a bespoke treatment plan:

• Patient’s height, width of shoulders & hips, ribcage, chest anatomy and measurements,
• Patient’s desired upper breast tissue fullness and overall look,
• Amount and distribution of breast tissue, i.e. more lower breast tissue or equally distributed,
• Suitable placement for the implants, i.e., submuscular, subglandular, subfascial or dual plane,
• Elasticity of breast tissue and skin,
• Implant size.

He also encourages patients to try various implant profiles within the size range recommended – in a non-padded bra, in front of a mirror; so he can then guide them through / show them the type of outcome they should expect to achieve with each profile.

Mr Rezai believes in only performing surgeries and treatments that are truly in the patient’s best interest; so if he deems a shape, size or profile unsuitable for their frame, he will let them know and explain the reasons why.

Ultimately, patients have the final say in choosing an implant size and profile, unless what they opt for is too big for their frame and would increase the risk of complications in the short – or long-term. At this stage, Mr Rezai will intervene and sometimes reject a patient, as he knows that she will damage her body by opting for a large size or a certain implant profile.

Mr Allen Rezai explains, “Normally, all patients I consult with appreciate my honesty and guidance regarding breast implants. However, if following consultation, I notice that a patient is unsure of or disagrees with my recommendation in terms of implant size, profile and placement, I advise them to consult one or two other experienced plastic surgeons prior to making a decision. It is always good to compare different opinions and see which one you feel good with.

You should be cautious of plastic surgeons who prefer to use a single type of implant shape or profile regardless of suitability – or those who agree with everything you say and want, without considering your indications. Instead you should look for a surgeon who discusses all available options with you and explains why he or she recommends a specific option, implant type or profile for you. The ultimate goal with natural look breast augmentation is to achieve a natural outcome; with a minimal risk of complications.”

It is important to keep in mind that breast implant selection is a long-term life decision… you are not looking for short-term satisfaction, instead you should consider your lifestyle and think about how your breasts will look in the future – as much as how they will look in the first year after surgery; and select a size, shape and profile that will provide you with long-term satisfaction. This decision can be overwhelming for many patients – and ultimately it is your choice, but remember that your surgeon is there to guide you through this process and to help you make the right decision.

A thorough, in person consultation with a skilled plastic surgeon is vital in creating a truly bespoke treatment plan. It’s during this meeting you can discuss your goals with wanting surgery, and what your preferences are in terms of the “look” you aspire to achieve. It’s paramount that you take your time when researching plastic surgeons – one of the most important considerations a patient should have is selecting a plastic surgeon who is skilled, honest and who will discuss all aspects of the procedure (including all surgery & implant associated risks / complications) in detail – and who provides realistic expectations of the outcome. As a doctor, it’s important to take the time to fully understand patients’ expectations and goals with any kind of surgery. Dr Rezai believes that honest, open, two-way communication, is another key factor in achieving a successful, natural looking outcome that you’re happy with.

A list of important considerations to be taken into account when contemplating breast surgery and choosing a surgeon.

• Think about the change you want to see, then research and find out as much information as possible about the treatment. Be open & precise about what you want and, above all, be open to all your wishes not being achievable. Manage your expectations.
• Find a qualified plastic surgeon experienced in breast surgery. Make sure that he or she is board certified… and look for “genuine” reviews and feedback from previous patients.
• Have consultations with at least 2 or 3 qualified and experienced plastic surgeons. It’s always good to have something to compare and cross-check.
• Be honest about your medical history. Make sure to discuss all aspects of the surgery with your chosen plastic surgeon. Do not be afraid to ask questions, since it is important to know all the risks involved and feel comfortable with the person who will be carrying out your surgery.
• Your plastic surgeon should be able to explain why he/she recommends a certain type of treatment option or technique. As with all cosmetic surgery, the type of technique used depends on many factors – including the patient’s indication for treatment, anatomy and lifestyle. The treatment plan should be tailored to suit the specific needs of the patient.
• Thoroughly research the type of breast implants offered to you. Find out more about the implant manufacturer, how long the implants have been on the market, their track record and what type of guarantees come with the implants.
• Find out what type of care is offered before, during, and especially after the surgery. After-care is just as important as the surgery itself… so make sure you know who to contact and how you will be looked after; especially if there are any complications or problems following your surgery.
• Find out where the surgery will be performed. This can have major implications on safety during the operation and the occurrence of possible risks and complications.
• Last but not least, “COOL OFF” before you commit. Cosmetic surgery is not a decision to be taken lightly, as it is after all, surgery. Take your time and reflect on all aspects of the proposed breast surgery, and make sure you understand all the implications involved before you make an informed decision to proceed.