Plastic, Hand and Reconstructive Surgeon

The aesthetic surgery options I provide include the following procedures: liposuction, abdominoplasty, breast, arm, thigh and mons lifts, ear reduction or prominent ear correction for adults, eyelid surgery, and correction of gynaecomastia. Lowering of hairline, reduction of earlobes, and lip lift. I focus on achieving natural-looking results that enhance your appearance and boost your confidence.

When you can comfortably wear the seatbelt and when you no longer require strong painkillers Please bring a pillow to put over your tummy and under the seatbelt

All surgical procedures carry risks. Some potential risks include: prolonged swelling, asymmetry, scarring, irregularities, nerve and vessel damage, infection, bleeding, blindness (eyelid surgery), delayed healing, deep vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism. Smoking significantly increases the risk of complications and delayed healing, so it is crucial to stop smoking before any elective surgery. Anesthesia-related complications should be discussed with your anesthesiologist.

What is a scar? A scar forms as your skin heals after an injury, surgery, or burn. This is a normal part of healing. Scars change over time and may take many months to over a year to fully mature. How do scars heal? Early Healing (0–6 weeks) The wound closes and new tissue forms The scar may appear: Red or pink Raised or firm Tight or itchy Remodelling Phase (2–6 months) The body reorganizes the scar tissue The scar: Becomes softer Flattens Starts to fade in colour Mature Scar (6–18 months) The scar becomes: Softer and smoother Closer to your natural skin colour Some scars may remain slightly raised or darker Does skin type matter? All skin types heal in a similar way, but: Some people may develop darker or thicker scars Individuals with darker skin tones may be more prone to noticeable pigmentation changes or raised scars How can I improve my scar? Sun protection Use SPF 30–50 sunscreen daily for at least 12 months Sun exposure can cause scars to become darker or more noticeable Moisturizing Use a non-perfumed moisturizer once the wound has healed Keeps the skin soft and comfortable Scar massage Start after the wound is healed and stitches are removed Massage gently twice daily for 5–10 minutes Helps soften and flatten the scar Silicone therapy Silicone gel or sheets can: Reduce redness Improve thickness and texture Use daily for several months Additional treatments (if needed) These are usually recommended for thicker or more noticeable scars: Pressure garments: Used mainly for larger or burn scars Worn under specialist guidance for several months Steroid injections: Can help reduce raised scars (hypertrophic or keloid scars) Laser or light treatments: May improve colour and texture after the scar matures When should I seek medical advice? Contact your doctor if your scar: Becomes very painful or itchy Becomes thick, raised, or firm Grows beyond the original wound (keloid scar) Develops dark or uneven colour changes Key points to remember Scars take time to mature (up to 12–18 months) Daily care makes a significant difference Sun protection, moisturizing, and massage are important Every scar heals differently If you have concerns about how your scar is healing, please speak with your doctor. If you’d like, I can add post-operative scar protocols (e.g., after breast reduction, skin cancer excision, or hand surgery) or format this with your clinic branding.

A thigh lift, or thighplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to improve the appearance of the thighs by removing excess skin and fat. This surgery is often performed after significant weight loss or to address age-related skin laxity. The goal is to create smoother, firmer, and more contoured thighs. Indications for Surgery - Loose or sagging skin on the thighs - Excess fat deposits in the thigh area - Discomfort or hygiene issues due to skin folds - Poor skin elasticity that does not respond to diet and exercise The Procedure - Anaesthesia: The surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia. - Technique: Incisions are made in the groin area and or the buttock creases, and in some cases, may extend down the inner thigh. Excess skin and fat are removed, and the remaining skin is tightened. It all depends on how much skin needs to be removed. - Duration: The procedure usually takes 2–3 hours. Benefits - Improved contour and firmness of the thighs - Reduction in skin irritation caused by folds - Enhanced appearance in clothing - Boost in self-confidence Potential Risks and Complications As with any surgery, thigh lift carries risks: Common Risks: - Swelling and bruising - Pain or discomfort - Scarring - Temporary numbness - Fluid accumulation (seroma) Uncommon/Rare Risks: - Infection - Bleeding - Poor wound healing - Asymmetry - Blood clots (DVT) - Need for revision surgery Aftercare - You may need to wear a compression garment to support the area and reduce swelling. - Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for at least 4–6 weeks. - Keep the incision sites clean and dry. - Follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding wound care and medications. Recovery Timeline - Week 1–2: Initial swelling and bruising; gradual return to light activity. - Week 4–6: Resume normal activities and non-strenuous exercise. - 3–6 Months: Final results become more apparent as swelling subsides. - 12 Months: Scars begin to fade. When to Seek Help Contact your healthcare provider if you notice: - Fever or signs of infection - Increased redness, swelling, or discharge - Severe pain not relieved by medication - Sudden swelling or pain in the legs Outcomes Most patients are satisfied with the results of their thigh lift. The improvement in contour is typically long-lasting, especially when combined with a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. Scars are permanent but usually fade over time.

An arm lift offers a more toned arm contour, boosts your confidence, and lets you enjoy a wider range of clothing styles. It can also ease discomfort and improve hygiene by removing excess skin.

The recovery process after an arm lift typically involves some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication. Patients are usually advised to avoid strenuous activities for 4-6 weeks and to wear a compression garment to support the healing process. Full recovery can take several months.

As with any surgical procedure, an arm lift carries potential risks and complications, including infection, bleeding, scarring, asymmetry, and changes in skin sensation. It is important to discuss these risks with your surgeon and follow all pre- and post-operative instructions to minimize complications.

An arm lift (brachioplasty) removes excess skin and fat from your upper arms, often after weight loss or aging. The goal? A smoother, more toned arm contour that boosts your confidence.

To prepare for an arm lift surgery, you should follow your surgeon's instructions, which may include stopping smoking, avoiding certain medications, and arranging for someone to help you during the initial recovery period. It is also important to maintain a stable weight and follow a healthy lifestyle to achieve the best results.

1. To improve vision (functional) As we age, the eyelid skin stretches and droops (dermatochalasis). In some people it becomes so heavy that it: Hangs over the eyelashes Blocks the upper and outer part of the visual field Makes reading, driving, and computer work difficult Causes brow fatigue and headaches from constantly lifting the brows This is a medical indication and is often covered by OHIP if visual field testing confirms obstruction. 2. To look less tired or heavy-eyed (cosmetic) Even without vision loss, excess upper-lid skin can make people look: Tired Sad Angry Older than they feel Upper blepharoplasty restores a clean eyelid crease and a brighter, more open eye without changing your identity. 3. To help makeup and glasses Heavy lids can: Make eyeshadow smear Push lashes down Make glasses sit awkwardly Irritate the skin What the operation involves 1. Pre-op marking With you sitting upright, and I will marks: The natural eyelid crease How much skin can be safely removed The goal is to never make the eye look hollow or unable to close. 2. Anaesthetic Usually done under: Local anaesthetic (numbing injections) Sometimes with light oral or IV sedation You are awake but comfortable. 3. The incision A fine incision is made in the natural eyelid crease so the scar is hidden when your eyes are open. 4. What is removed Depending on your anatomy: Excess skin A thin strip of muscle Sometimes small bulges of fat Nothing essential to blinking is removed. 5. Closure The incision is closed with: Very fine sutures or Skin glue The whole procedure usually takes 30–60 minutes. Recovery First week Swelling and bruising (often looks worse days 2–4) Eyes may feel tight or dry Ice packs help Stitches out at 5–7 days (if used) 2–3 weeks Most bruising gone You can usually return to social activities 6–12 weeks Final shape and scars settle Scars fade into the crease and are usually barely visible Risks (uncommon in expert hands) Bruising or bleeding Infection Temporary dry eyes Asymmetry Very rarely: difficulty closing the eye (usually temporary) Serious complications like vision loss are extremely rare. The result A good upper blepharoplasty: Makes the eyes look more open and rested Improves peripheral vision if it was blocked Keeps you looking like yourself, just less tired If you’d like, you can tell me: Is this for vision, appearance, or both? Are you noticing brow droop as well? That helps determine whether you would benefit from just eyelids or also a brow lift.

What is a mastopexy? A mastopexy, or breast lift, is a surgical procedure to raise and reshape the breasts. It removes excess skin and tightens surrounding tissue to improve breast position and contour. This procedure does not significantly increase breast size. If you want fuller breasts, an implant may be considered at the same time. Why consider a breast lift? You may consider mastopexy if you have: Drooping or sagging breasts (ptosis) Downward-pointing nipples Loss of breast shape after pregnancy, breastfeeding, or weight loss Uneven breast position What does the surgery involve? Performed under general anaesthesia Excess skin is removed and the breast is reshaped The nipple and areola are repositioned higher on the breast Incisions may be: Around the areola Vertical (down the breast) Sometimes along the fold under the breast The exact technique depends on your anatomy and goals. After surgery Recovery You will go home the same day or the next day A support bra is worn for several weeks Swelling and bruising are common in the first few weeks Most patients return to light activities in 1–2 weeks Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for 4–6 weeks Wound care Dressings will be applied after surgery Stitches may dissolve or be removed in clinic Keep incisions clean and dry as instructed Scars Scars are permanent but usually fade over time They may be red and firm initially, improving over 6–18 months Scar care (moisturizing, massage, silicone, sun protection) is important Expected results Breasts will appear lifted and firmer Shape improves over several months as swelling settles Results are long-lasting but may change with: Aging Weight changes Pregnancy Possible risks and complications All surgery carries some risk. These include: Common risks Swelling and bruising Scarring Temporary changes in nipple sensation Less common risks Infection Bleeding or hematoma Delayed wound healing Asymmetry (uneven breasts) Loss of nipple sensation (usually temporary, rarely permanent) Rare risks Partial or complete loss of the nipple or areola Blood clots Important considerations Smoking increases the risk of complications and poor healing Future pregnancy and breastfeeding may affect results Mastopexy may affect the ability to breastfeed This procedure is usually considered cosmetic and is not covered by OHIP unless medically indicated When to seek medical attention Contact your surgeon or seek care if you have: Increasing pain, swelling, or redness Fever Drainage from the wound Sudden breast swelling or firmness Follow-up care You will have follow-up visits to: Monitor healing Remove sutures if needed Review scar care and recovery Key points Mastopexy improves breast position and shape It does not significantly increase size Recovery takes several weeks, with full results over months Scars improve with time and proper care

What is an abdominoplasty? An abdominoplasty, or “tummy tuck,” is a surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tighten the abdominal wall muscles. It improves the shape and contour of the abdomen. This procedure is not a weight-loss surgery. Why consider an abdominoplasty? You may consider this procedure if you have: Loose or excess abdominal skin (e.g., after pregnancy or weight loss) Weakened or separated abdominal muscles (diastasis) Stretching or sagging of the abdominal wall Difficulty achieving a flat abdomen despite diet and exercise What does the surgery involve? Performed under general anaesthesia Excess skin and fat are removed Abdominal muscles may be tightened The belly button is usually repositioned A horizontal incision is made low on the abdomen (hip-to-hip), often hidden below underwear In some cases, liposuction may be performed at the same time to improve contour and we will discuss whether this is suitable for you at your consultation. After surgery Recovery You may go home the same day or stay overnight You will need to walk slightly bent forward at first to reduce tension on the incision Most patients return to light activities in 2–3 weeks Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for 6 weeks Full recovery may take several months Dressings and drains Dressings will be applied to the incision Drains may be placed to remove fluid and are usually removed within 1–2 weeks, Sometimes I quilt the abdominal skin with dissolvable sutures which removes the need for drains. A compression garment is worn for several weeks (12 minimum) to reduce swelling and support healing Wound care Keep the incision clean and dry Can shower after 5 -7 days I will tell you about your dressing changes when I see you for follow up Stitches are dissolvable Scars The scar is permanent but usually fades over time It may appear red and firm initially, improving over 6–18 months Scar care (moisturizing, massage, silicone, sun protection) is recommended Expected results A flatter, firmer abdomen Improved contour and waistline Results are long-lasting if weight is stable Changes can still occur with: Weight gain or loss Aging Future pregnancy Possible risks and complications All surgery carries some risk. Common risks Swelling and bruising Pain or discomfort Scarring Numbness above the scar and under the bellybutton Less common risks Infection Bleeding or hematoma Fluid collection (seroma) Delayed wound healing Rare but serious risks Blood clots (deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism) Skin loss or poor wound healing Asymmetry or contour irregularities Important considerations Smoking significantly increases the risk of complications You should be close to your ideal weight before surgery Future pregnancy can reverse the results This procedure is usually cosmetic and not covered by OHIP, unless medically indicated When to seek medical attention Contact your me or seek care if you have: Increasing pain, redness, or swelling Fever Sudden swelling or fluid buildup Shortness of breath or chest pain (seek urgent care) Drainage from the wound Follow-up care You will have follow-up appointments to: Monitor healing Remove drains if present Review activity progression and scar care Key points Abdominoplasty improves abdominal shape and contour It is not a substitute for weight loss Recovery takes several weeks, with full results over months Maintaining a stable weight helps preserve results

What is an earlobe reduction? Earlobe reduction (lobuloplasty) is a minor surgical procedure to reduce the size of the earlobes or reshape stretched, elongated, or torn earlobes. This may be done for cosmetic reasons or to repair damage from earrings, trauma, or aging. Why is this procedure done? You may consider earlobe reduction if you have: Large or elongated earlobes Stretched piercing holes (from heavy earrings or gauges) Split or torn earlobes Asymmetry between earlobes How is the procedure performed? The procedure is usually done in a clinic under local anesthesia (freezing). A small portion of the earlobe is removed. The remaining tissue is reshaped and carefully sutured. The procedure typically takes 30–60 minutes, depending on complexity. What are the benefits? Improved appearance and symmetry Repair of torn or stretched earlobes Ability to re-pierce ears in the future (if desired) What are the risks? All procedures carry some risks. These may include: Bleeding or infection Scarring (usually minimal) Asymmetry or contour irregularities Recurrence of stretching if heavy earrings are worn again Need for revision surgery (uncommon) Numbness What should I expect after surgery? Mild swelling, redness, or discomfort for a few days Stitches are usually removed in 5–7 days (or may dissolve) A small scar will form and fade over time Aftercare instructions Keep the area clean and dry for the first 24–48 hours Gently clean as instructed by your surgeon Avoid pressure on the ears (e.g., sleeping on them) for several days Do not wear earrings until advised When can I re-pierce my ears? Re-piercing is usually possible after 12 weeks, once healing is complete It should be done slightly away from the scar When should I seek medical attention? Contact your doctor if you notice: Increasing pain, redness, or swelling Pus or discharge Fever Wound opening Cost and coverage Earlobe reduction is typically considered a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by OHIP unless performed for medical reasons (e.g., traumatic tear). Follow-up A follow-up visit is usually scheduled within 1 week to assess healing and remove sutures if needed.

What is gynaecomastia? Gynaecomastia is a benign (non-cancerous) enlargement of breast tissue in males. It can affect one or both sides and may occur at any age. It is caused by an imbalance between hormones (estrogen and testosterone), leading to growth of breast tissue. Common Causes Normal hormonal changes Newborns Teenagers (puberty) Older men Medications Some heart, prostate, or psychiatric medications Anabolic steroids Medical conditions Liver or kidney disease Hormonal disorders Substances Alcohol Cannabis In many cases, no specific cause is found Symptoms Enlargement of breast tissue Tenderness or sensitivity Firm or rubbery tissue under the nipple Usually not painful, but can be uncomfortable How is it diagnosed? Your doctor may: Perform a physical examination Order blood tests (if needed) Request imaging (e.g., ultrasound or mammogram in select cases) Is it dangerous? Gynaecomastia is not cancer Male breast cancer is rare, but should be considered if there are: Hard, irregular lumps Skin changes Nipple discharge (especially bloody) Treatment Options 1. Observation (No treatment) Common in teenagers Often resolves within 6–18 months 2. Medical Treatment Occasionally used if caused by hormonal imbalance Most effective early 3. Surgery Considered if: Persistent (usually >1–2 years) Painful Causing psychological distress Significant size Surgical options include: Liposuction (removes fatty tissue) Excision (removes glandular tissue) Combination of both If You Are Having Surgery Before Surgery Stop smoking (improves healing) Review medications with your doctor Avoid certain blood thinners if advised After Surgery Pain Control Mild to moderate discomfort is expected Use: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) Prescribed medications if needed Dressings & Garment A compression garment is usually worn for: 6-12 weeks Helps reduce swelling and improve contour Activity Light activity: within a few days Avoid: Heavy lifting Chest exercise Strenuous activity for 4-6 weeks Return to Work Desk work: 1 week Physical work: 2–4 weeks Recovery Swelling and bruising are common Final results may take 3–6 months Scars will fade over time Risks of Surgery Bleeding or hematoma Infection Scarring Uneven contour or asymmetry Nipple sensitivity changes Rarely, need for revision surgery When to Seek Medical Attention Contact your doctor if you develop: Increasing swelling or pain Sudden enlargement of the chest (possible bleeding) Redness or drainage Fever (>38°C) Follow-Up Usually 1–2 weeks after surgery, then as needed Important Notes Results are generally long-lasting Maintaining a stable weight helps preserve results Avoid anabolic steroids and substances that may trigger recurrence