https://thebeautybook.co.nz/the-art-of-detail/

Breast reduction-a life changing procedure

Most women seek out surgery because large breasts make them feel uncomfortable both physically and psychologically. They often come as their friend had it and told them about breast reduction surgery because it’s made such a difference to their life

 I see many young girls coming in requesting breast reduction surgery. They are more prone to being embarrassed about the way that they look, and they want to feel like they belong in their social circle. But most importantly, they want to get rid of the symptoms such as neck and backpain and being able play sports.

But one concern about breast reduction in adolescents is the risk of breast growth after surgery. This occurs in about 5% of patients. However, in the most recently published study in the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Journal, it was shown that breast reduction significantly improves the breast-related symptoms and physical and psychosocial well-being of adolescent and young adult patients. The new study supports the good outcomes of breast reduction surgery in patients aged 12 to 21, despite a substantial risk of mostly minor complications. It was concluded: “Fear of potential complications should not preclude otherwise healthy patients from the benefits that reduction mammaplasty can provide adolescents.”

However, preoperative counselling about potential complications is a must, and as long as the risks are understood and accepted and there is no evidence of obesity, adolescent breast reduction is safe and effective

Breast implant associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL) study shows multi-team treatment is a key to achieving best outcomes

Breast implant associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL)is not a breast cancer or cancer of the breast tissue; it is a lymphoma, a cancer of immune cells. In most cases, BIA-ALCL is found in the scar tissue and fluid near the implant, but in some cases, it can spread throughout the body. When caught early, it is readily curable. If the disease is advanced, chemotherapy or radiation may be required.

Women with breast implants may have a very low, but increased risk of developing ALCL adjacent to a breast implant. BIA-ALCL occurs most frequently in patients who have breast implants with textured surfaces. It also appears to purely be related to the surface of the implant not to what the implant is filled with.

The current lifetime risk of BIA-ALCL is estimated to be 1:3817 – 1:30,000 women with textured implants based upon current confirmed cases and textured implant sales data over the past two decades. However, the exact number of cases remains difficult to determine due to due lack of global breast implant sales data.

A team of researchers from across five disciplines at MD Anderson recently published the largest prospective study on breast implant associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), shedding light on the best treatment for patients with this uncommon cancer.

The study demonstrated that with early diagnosis, better outcomes could be achieved and it emphasized that the best prognosis depends on appropriate diagnosis and a multi-team treatment approach.  It also underlines the need for increased awareness of this disease. Patients should contact their physician if they notice breast swelling, asymmetry or unexplained sensations of fullness – all BIA-ALCL symptoms. If the physician suspects BIA-ALCL, ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration of the fluid collection around the implant is used the obtain a correct diagnosis.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition that causes pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and arm. Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the tunnel becomes narrowed or when tissues surrounding the flexor tendons swell, putting pressure on the median nerve.

If pressure on the median nerve continues, it can lead to nerve damage and worsening symptoms. To prevent permanent damage and when symptoms are severe or do not improve, surgery may be needed to make more room for the nerve. The goal of surgery is to increase the size of the tunnel in order to decrease pressure on the nerves and tendons that pass through the tunnel. This procedure is rarely revised, but we know that the risk of recurrence is 2-3%.

Revision surgery may be performed when carpal tunnel symptoms recur after a symptom-free period.

I have recently read an article about risk factors for revision surgery after carpal tunnel decompression. I think the picture below describes it very well. Enjoy

Dr Katarzyna Mackenzie, MD, PhD, FRACS (Plast)
Plastic and hand surgeon

What is my vision of skin health?

As a plastics surgeon I feel passionate about skin. Plastic surgery has its limitations when it comes to improving the health of our skin and our skin is often the first thing that people notice about us. Smooth, supple and radiant skin is a good indicator of health and is one of the universal hallmarks of beauty.

What is the current trade secret?

In my opinion a glowing and seemingly make up free complexion has become a status symbol among women. Having treated my skin with innovative skincare program, I stopped using makeup (except of my favorite Diorshow mascara and Armani lipstick).

What is the game changer in skin care industry?

For me it is definitely physician-dispensed, medical-grade skincare based on latest advances in skin therapy technologies, unique delivery systems, and bioengineered complexes.

Dr Katarzyna Mackenzie, MD, PhD, FRACS (Plast)
Plastic and hand surgeon